Two of a Kind by Susan Mallery (#83)

We met Felicia in the previous Fool's Gold novel but it isn't necessary to read it first. Felicia is beautiful and wicked smart. Reading at two and mixing chemicals at four smart. I've got a couple passages of the book for you. Just know this is a happy-ever-after romance and I cried. Of course, the road isn't easy, Felicia has a history with Gideon and Gideon has nightmares and other troubles from his days in the military. The town comes through for him too.

"I don't understand," Felicia whispered. "You want me to be in charge of the festivals?"

"Yes," the mayor said firmly.

"But they're important to the town. I know you have other industries, but I would guess that tourism is your main source of income. The university and the hospital would be the largest employers, but the visitors are the real money."

The town of Fool's Gold puts on at least one festival a month, several more during the winter holidays. Vendors come and set up booths, there is music and parades. The best ones are several days long and fill up the hotel rooms and the bed & breakfast places. Felicia spent several years doing logistics for black ops missions but she grew up in a university setting, spending most of her time in a lab since she was four-year-old. Felicia just doesn't have the social/people skills she thinks she needs to pull off the job.

As an introduction to the town, she missed work because of a sick child and forgot to schedule the workers needed to decorate for one of the festivals. In a manner of hours, people poured into town to help with banners, ribbons, planter boxes and water dishes (it was the Dog Days of Summer Festival) and everything was back on schedule. This town support is important later. . .

She leaned against the counter and told herself that everything would be fine. She was strong and capable and she had a support system. As soon as her friends found out what had happened, the would surround her with love and encouragement. And, most likely, casseroles.

We've met several characters that I'm sure will have books and I'm sure I'll be purchasing them all but I'm really looking forward to Consuelo's story and crossing my fingers that she gets one.

The next book comes out in July and I've already ordered it.
 

Two of a Kind
Fool's Gold
Susan Mallery
978-0373777686
Harlequin
June 2013 (6-25-13)
379 pages
mass market paperback (ebook, audio)
Age range: high school
 
Romance
source: private library

finished reading: June 27
Grade: A

Felicia Swift never dreamed she'd hear a deep, sexy voice from her past in tiny Fool's Gold, California. The last time Gideon Boylan whispered in her ear was half a world away…on the morning after the hottest night of her life. Her freaky smarts have limited her close friendships, and romance, but she came to Fool's Gold looking for ordinary. Gorgeous, brooding Gideon is anything but that.

Black Ops taught Gideon that love could be deadly. Now he pretends to fit in while keeping everyone at arm's length. Felicia wants more than he can give—a home, family, love—but she has a lot to learn about men…and Gideon needs to be the man to teach her.

As these two misfits discover that passion isn't the only thing they have in common, they just might figure out that two of a kind should never be split apart.

~*~*~

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Where are you reading
Outdo Yourself
Library Books Read-a-Thon
In the Middle

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Subterranean by James Rollins (#82)

Suspend belief and journey down. Down below the ice where evolution has taken a different course.

I was so mad at Dr. Blakey. How could he recruit a single mother and let her bring her son on this mission? He knew some of the dangers but didn't inform the others. Ashley had been having enough trouble keeping food on the table after the divorce that a guaranteed tenure at "the university of your choice", exclusive authorship of research garnered and $100,000 for two months work blinded her to the omissions. Being able to bring her son and a large diamond fertility statue helped. True, we only know of them because of the previous chapter but when something sounds too good to be true, maybe it is.

I was serious about suspending belief. This may be listed as a thriller but think Journey to the Center of the Earth with strange creatures, fantastic geological finds, and amazing plant life. Just add modern greed and weapons. I haven't read Journey so I'm not sure it is a true comparison but I'm loving this book, am amazed that it is a debut novel and am looking forward to reading what else Mr. Rollins has written.

off to read some more. . . 

heart-stopping panic, blood-curdling fright, blood and gore, tear inducing moments, satisfying ending.

Subterranean
James Rollins
978-0061916175
William Morrow
March 2010
432 pages
hardcover (paperback, ebook, audio)
Age range: high school
 
Thriller
source: public library

finished reading: June 27
Grade: B+

Beneath the ice at the bottom of the Earth is a magnificent subterranean labyrinth, a place of breathtaking wonders—and terrors beyond imagining. A team of specialists led by archaeologist Ashley Carter has been hand-picked to explore this secret place and to uncover the riches it holds. But they are not the first to venture here—and those they follow did not return. There are mysteries here older than time, and revelations that could change the world. But there are also things that should not be disturbed—and a devastating truth that could doom Ashley and the expedition: they are not alone.

~*~*~

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Where are you reading
Outdo Yourself
Library Books Read-a-Thon
Library Books
Genre/sub-genre

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

That Old Flame of Mine by J. J. Cook (#81)

I read a lot of paranormal stories and a lot of cozy mysteries but not too many ghost cozies. Although a quick check through LibraryThing revealed that I own several. Yes, I've added them to the TBR tag.

My brother is a fireman. So is a brother-in-law. That and a cute cover had me checking out the title but small-town, here-just-for-a-while, ghost-helps-solve-crime had me purchasing the book. I've already added book 1.5 and 2 to my wishlist/shopping cart.

There were enough wacky characters and weird twists to keep me reading long past the bookmarked stopping place.

Family comes up, there is questions about an old fire death, as well as questions about a new fire death. There is a Vietnam vet that gets some slack because he's a hero. The owner of the pepper packing plant...and employer of most of the town. His newish wife and her (adult) son. But one of the people Stella needs to watch out for turns out to be the manager of the packing plant. He's not use to anyone questioning how he does things nor does he like having to do things differently than "it's always been done this way".

This is only a temporary assignment for Stella, three months to get the fire brigade up and running then home to Chicago and her old job. This is a "first in a new series" so you know she's staying but you've got to be wondering when she'll know she's staying. 

The next book in the series (book 1.5) comes out in December and is an ebook novella about the puppy. Book two, Playing with Fire comes out in January 2014.

That Old Flame of Mine
A Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade Mystery
J. J. Cook

978-0425252048
Berkley
April 2013
297 pages, includes recipes
mass market paperback (ebook)
Age range: 14+
 
cozy with a touch of paranormal
source: private library

finished reading: June 26
Grade: B+

After knocking the lights out of her boyfriend when she catches him cheating on her, Chicago fire fighter Stella Griffin hops on her Harley and heads for Sweet Pepper, Tennessee, where she ends up becoming the small town's fire chief. When her dear friend Tory Lambert dies after her gingerbread=style house is set ablaze, Stella suspects arson and foul play.

As Stella investigates, she gets help from a most unlikely source-the ghost of Eric Gamlyn, Sweet Pepper's old fire chief. And if that isn't enough to rattle her, attractive police officer John Trump seems to have taken an interest in her. But Stella's got to stay focused if she hopes to smoke out a killer before her own life is extinguished.

~*~*~

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Outdo Yourself
Monthly Mix-up Mania
Genre Variety
Genre/sub-genre
Criminal Plots III

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #79: Sea Glass Island (more sweet)

Sea Glass Island
Ocean Breeze #3
Sherryl Woods

9780778314462
Mira
June 2013
378 pages
print
Age range: 14+
 

romance
source: private library
(Amy wanted to send me the ebook but I bought the print so it would match the other two books she sent me to review)

Grade: B+


With her two younger sisters heading for the altar, will Samantha Castle exchange old dreams for new ones? Lately she'd rather be on the North Carolina coast with family than in New York with agents and actors. Though she vows not to let her teenage crush on Ethan Cole influence her decision, it's hard to ignore her feelings for the local war hero.

Ethan lost more than his leg in Afghanistan. He lost his belief in love. Even being surrounded by couples intent on capturing happily-ever-after won't open this jaded doctor's heart. It's going to take a sexy, determined woman—one who won't take no for an answer.

~*~*~

I'd like to say this is all about Samantha. About her lost love of acting, the high school crush that she never got over, her love of family. Except, Emily hasn't gotten married yet. Samantha is Maid of Honor and Ethan is Best Man. They are consistently thrown together because of wedding stuff, add in a meddling Grandmother who just wants to see her girls happy and you have a LOT of drama.

Still it is Samantha's story so while the wedding is a "character" it is Samantha's viewpoint we see it from.

I'm just at 200 pages and so far their Dad has had some very insightful comments. The love the sisters have for each other really shows through. I'm really looking forward to finishing the book but am sad that the trilogy will be over.

back to reading. . . .

I thought the book wasn't totally about Samantha and Ethan. Turns out that while Emily's wedding and a whole lot more are happening, Samantha and Ethan are up to their necks in almost everything.

I love the twists, the unexpected situations, the interactions between friends, family and town folk.

Ms. Woods does leave us hanging about a couple of things concerning B.J. but I'm very satisfied with the trilogy.

As for sex. . . it does happen, over halfway through, after tension for most of the book but it isn't in your face or pages and pages of it.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Outdo Yourself
In the Middle
ARC
Monthly Key Word
Spring Reading Thing
52 in 52
Men in Uniform
Monthly Mix-up Mania

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #76: Ropes and Dreams (NSFW)

Ropes and Dreams
Mossy Glenn Ranch #2
Bailey Bradford

978-1-78184-372-7
Total-e-Bound
June 2013
136 pages
ebook
Age range: 18+
 
male/male romance, D/s
source: private library

Grade: B-


Ian McCain’s always been one cold, hard man, but a sexy little cook is about to melt his heart.

Drake loves his job as a cook at the Mossy Glenn Ranch. He just wishes he wasn’t scared out of his mind. His ex has him convinced he’s never going to be loved again, so he vows to remain alone.

Officer Ian McCain doesn’t play well with others—unless he’s got a whip or paddle in his hand and a sub at his feet. Control is all he’s had for years now, and he doesn’t think he’s capable of having a relationship.

Then he pulls up at the Mossy Glenn and sees a sexy man with a cute puppy on a leash. From that moment on, Drake might as well have Ian on a leash too, or at least his heart. Ian breaks down Drake’s walls almost as fast as Drake destroys his.

But their chance for a happy life together is something they’re both going to have to fight for as Drake faces his fears and Ian faces losing everything.

~*~*~

This one had lots of sex but it was also full of understanding and love. And bullets.

Book two continues with puppy training and police reports. Ian and Drake find friends in unlikely places and surprises both good and bad.

I'm still wondering what's up with Salt. Maybe his story is next. Whoever is next, I'll be buying that one too.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Outdo Yourself
m/m romance
ebooks
Men in Uniform
Monthly Mix-up Mania

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #64: Son of Death (NSFW)

Son of Death
Keepers of the Gods 1
Nikki McCoy

978-0-85715-550-4
Total-e-Bound
May 2011
224 pages
ebook
Age range: 18+

romance, male/male, BDSM, paranormal, sadistic half-god
source: personal library

When Seth, a Keeper of the Gods, finds the two men he is destined to live eternity with, he must defy the very Gods themselves to save his mates and preserve the existence of man and love.

Discovering love with the one person who is fated to compliment everything that you are is blessing enough, but what do you do when another knight in shining armor sweeps you off your feet?

Jamie found a second chance at life when Loland rescued him from the ignorance and abuse of those who should have protected him. For years they struggled together to cope with Jamie's powers of precognition and his ability to absorb energy from living things.

After centuries of waiting for his other half, Seth finally met Loland, a man that embodied all he'd ever dreamt of in a mate. Meeting Loland's lover, Jamie, and finding that they are both his mates only made the pot sweeter. But while exploring the love they find as mates and the D/s relationships they crave, all three must challenge the will of the Gods and the twisted plans of Jamie's mysterious family.

Ultimately, Seth knows there is nothing he wouldn't do to save the lives and love of his mates.

~*~*~

Oh, boy. Truly a a good example of BDSM.

Jamie and Loland are both subs without a Sir. Loland is searching but Jamie can hardly leave the house and when Loland brings the man he wants to be his Sir home, Jamie takes a swing at him with a baseball bat! Not the easiest of meetings.

Jamie is fearful but strong, loyal to a fault and willing to do what he must. Loland is overprotective, with good reason. And Seth. Seth is a Dom. A good one. One used to being obeyed, willing to be patient with new subs, and quickly losing his heart to both men.

dang, I read book two before writing this.... let's see. Fighting, kidnapping, angry Gods, angrier Keepers, and several half-Gods (offspring of a God and a Keeper). One of the half-Gods has an attitude, just like a rotten apple, giving all half-Gods a bad name. The most sadistic of his behavior is off-screen, we just see the results. Wait, a spiked ball gag? Shudder, I think that was the worst.

But, after everything is said and done this is a love story. The three main characters is this story are having a horrible time but they are working on a relationship that is a love story.

~*~*~

Challenges this counts towards:

150+

Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
Outdo Yourself
m/m romance
ebook
paranormal

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #60: Wind Chime Point (mostly sweet)

Wind Chime Point
Ocean Breeze #2
Sherryl Woods
978-0-7783-1442-4
Mira
May 2013
393 pages
print
Age range: 14+
warning: the main character is pregnant and unmarried. 

romance
source: Amy Bromberg affiliated with McAllister PR

Grade: B+


Facing a personal crisis, ambitious and driven Gabriella Castle retreats to the welcoming arms of her family. Everything she's worked for has been yanked out from under her, and she seeks the serenity of her grandmother's home on the North Carolina coast. With difficult decisions to make about her future, the last thing she wants is an unexpected love.

Wade Johnson fell for Gabi the first time he saw her. It's not the only time he's found himself in the the role of knight in shining armor, but Gabi isn't looking for a rescuer. To get her to stay, Wade will need a whole lot of patience and gentle persuasion...and maybe the soothing sound of wind chimes on a summer breeze.

~*~*~

Gabi was a good girl all through school. She didn't have time to get in trouble, she was too busy planning her future in hopes of making her father proud of her, even going so far as to work in the same field. She's done well for herself but the 60 hour weeks are starting to take their toll and when she comes up pregnant (and still single) she's demoted. Not because she's pregnant, noooo, that would have been illegal. It was still a demotion and she took the severance package.

So, she come to her Grandmother's house. No, to Grandmother's home. She's already been there a lot because of the storm damage but now she has decisions to make. Will she keep the baby? Go back to her old life? Find something new? Someone new?

Now there are two dads in the picture. Her Father and the father of her child. Her Father is improving, I'm happy to say but the baby's father gives new meaning to the phrase sperm donor.

"I'm afraid I'm a work in progress, Gabriella. I imagine there will be a few setbacks when I'll revert to my familiar, self-absorbed ways."

I love the support she receives from the family. I love the spirit she displays when dealing with her Grandmother's meddling, her ex-boyfriend and her Father's "help". You know how sometimes you get a wow feeling when the title makes sense. I got that with this one. Wind Chime Point may be the middle book in a trilogy but it is a satisfying read all on it's own.

Then again, I can't wait to see what happens to the third sister. Hey, Sea Glass Island is on my reading pile :-)

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
contemporary romance
In the Middle
ARC
Monthly Mix-up Mania

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #62: Watch Me (NSFW)

Watch Me
Campus Cravings #17
Carol Lynne

978-1-78184-323-9
Total-e-Bound
April 2013
84 pages
ebook
Age range: 18+

romance, male/male, light exhibitionism
source: personal library

When you come to the end of a ten-year search, what comes next?

As an eight-year-old, Zeke Straus couldn’t help his big brother Kade when their father kicked him out, but he vowed to find him no matter what it took. At the age of eighteen, Zeke struck out on his own to fulfil that promise. Now, after ten years of fruitless searching and living in run-down motel rooms, he lands yet another bartender job. The last thing Zeke expects is the attraction he feels for the club’s owner.

When Fallon’s on Fifth closes after its owner’s conviction, Reid Jackson and his best friend Alec Demakis decide to buy the bar and turn it into Clean Slate. When a sexy as sin bartender walks through the door to apply for a position, Reid finds he has several in mind he’d like to try with Zeke…

Kade Straus overcame his past and found the love of his life in partner Lark. Although he’s thought of the brother he left behind often, guilt has kept him from contacting his family for twenty years. When he hears that a Zeke Straus with a matching birth date was hired to work at a friend’s bar, he has little choice but to leave Cattle Valley and come face to face with a past he’s never confessed to Lark.

Zeke is torn between his unexpected feelings for Reid and reconnecting with the brother he’s devoted his adult life to searching for. He’s never found a place he wanted to settle down before, so now that his journey’s at an end, how will he choose where to make his home?

~*~*~

This one could possibly be read as a stand-alone. The pain Zeke felt when his brother didn't come back comes through very well. So does his confusion about Reid and his feelings about his brother. I really liked this addition to the series.

~*~*~

Challenges this counts towards:

150+

Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
m/m romance
ebook
Where are you reading/50 states

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #56: a Sticky Wicket in Bollywood (NSFW)

A Sticky Wicket in Bollywood
International Men of Sports
T. A. Chase
Devon Rhodes

978-1-78184-299-7
Total-e-Bound
April 2013
155 pages
ebook
Age range: 16+

Romance, male/male
source: Private Library

Rajan Malik has the world of Bollywood in the palm of his hand—a beautiful girlfriend, starring roles, adoring fans… He should be happy, but behind the façade lies a man conflicted and exhausted by the pressure placed on him by his terminally ill mother, his agent and society. His life is not his own, and all he wants to do is escape.

Indian Premier League cricketer Ajay Singh can’t believe how bad his university roommate Rajan looks when he spots his picture in the paper. They had parted on bad terms. Still, he’s moved to offer Rajan his support by renewing their friendship.

But friendship was not all they shared back then. Though Ajay is out, Rajan isn’t willing to give up his carefully cultivated Bollywood image to be with him publicly. And with very little privacy, it won’t take long for someone to find out they are more than friends.

Their renewed secret affair is fraught with difficulties as they deal with the death of Rajan’s mother, the secret of Rajan’s till-now absent father, a jealous friend, the intrusive media and threatening notes from someone who seems to know all about their private lives…

It’s a bit of a sticky wicket they find themselves in. Will it be too late when they finally realise that they’ll both need to compromise, or they’ll stand to lose everything?

~*~*~

What's a man to do when the love of his life is not only in the closet but is being run ragged by a controlling mother, agent and co-star?

I really wanted to shake Rajan. He's exhausted, doesn't want to do another film right away but doesn't say anything when his agent announces it is a done deal. His house is not a hideaway, heck anyone can get in and usually do, tour bus regularly stop and stare. Add to this a stalker and Ajay's offer of a place to hide becomes a lifeline.

I must tell you that I ended up liking everyone, even the stalker.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook
m/m romance
Men in Uniform
Monthly Mix-up Mania
52 in 52
Where are you reading

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #55: Temporary Mark (NSFW)

Temporary Mark
Collared
Kim Dare

978-1-78184-284-3
Total-e-Bound
March 2013
111 pages
ebook
Age range: 18+

Romance, male/male, light BDSM
source: Private Library

Mr Nolan’s last relationship lasted for over two decades. But, since suddenly finding himself single two years ago, he has struggled to find a submissive who can fill the void in his life. Maybe a temporary arrangement is exactly what he needs to ease him back into the lifestyle he loves so much.

Mark’s never experienced life under the protection of a good dom. He’s merely had a series of abusive partners. He’s used to being treated as a temporary feature in a man’s life, then thrown away when they tire of him.

When mutual friends push them together, the last thing Mr Nolan or Mark expects is to end up hoping a temporary collar will become permanent.

~*~*~

I'm just as angry as Edward as to the men who say they are Doms but have such total lack of regards for the men in their care. They are not "Doms" and are as a rotten apple, spoiling the rest of the barrel (the world's view) of the whole D/s culture.

okay, off soapbox 

What's a man to do when his friends show up late a night asking for a favor?

Edward takes in a submissive who was disowned by his last Dom, left on his own at a club with only the clothes on his back. And it turns out, he's injured.

Mark hasn't had any proper training, doesn't realize that being a submissive can be more than about pain, doesn't realize that the sub chooses the Dom. Now add in the fact that Edward's sub has been dead for two years, they'd been together 20+ years, and he hasn't replaced him and poor Mark has a serious case of insecurity.

The story is short, sweet and fast, taking place mostly over the weekend. I liked that both characters had insecurities and the author let us hear their inner monologue.

Beautiful ending.



Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook
m/m romance
Monthly Key Word

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #54: Sand Castle Bay (more sweet)

Sand Castle Bay
Ocean Breeze #1
Sherryl Woods
978-0778314363
Mira
April 2013
384 pages
print
Age range: 14+

romance
source: Amy Bromberg affiliated with McAllister PR

Grade: B+


In a trade-off she's lived to regret, Emily Castle left home years ago to become an interior designer. The youngest of three sisters, Emily desperately wanted to prove herself. Success, though, came at the cost of leaving behind the man she loved.

For Boone Dorsett, losing Emily left his heart shattered, but another woman was waiting in the wings. Now a widower with a young son, Boone has a second chance with Emily when a storm brings her home. But with his former in-laws threatening a custody suit, the stakes of loving her are higher than ever.

Will fate once again separate them—or is the time finally right for these two star-crossed lovers?

~*~*~

I haven't gotten very far in reading yet but have to tell you that in-laws and custody suits don't mix well. Boone seems to be a very level headed man just trying to make a living for him and his son. To have the in-laws come in and take a son away from his only parent (Mom is dead) just doesn't sit well with me. As if having the grandson will replace losing the daughter. shudder.

Okay, off my soapbox and off to read . . .

Oh, man!  First off, it isn't grandparents, just the mother-in-law.

I don't recall much about the town other than "beach" and "peaceful" - sounds great!

I've got at least five sticky notes to tell you about and just hope they can convey the love of family, importance of compromise and communication, and dealing with grief and disappointment.

I got to page 137 before I went to find my stickies and my copy is an uncorrected proof so while I'm sure the sentiment is there, don't hold me to specific quotes.

1) If Boone had needed a role model for the type of father not to be, Sam Castle would have been it. Even so, he'd wandered dangerously close to being exactly like him.

-Sam and his lack of being there for his family carries through the whole novel and I'm sure it will continue to play a part in the other two, especially Gabi's book.

2) ". . . Men are always trying to find the right balance between the truth, diplomacy and what a woman really wants to hear. We get tripped up on that a lot."

B.J. shook his head. "Sounds way too complicated. I'm thinking girls might not be worth it."

-Well, B.J. is 8 and this just shows how there Boone is for him.

3) "I don't like leaving the important stuff to chance," Cora Jane said in frustration.

"Think of it this way." Jerry suggested. "You're putting it in God's hands. Last time I checked, He was even better than you at making sure things turn out hte way they're supposed to."

Cora Jane could hardly deny that, but she sure as heck didn't have to like it.

-This isn't a preachy novel, just accepting that there is a higher power. It also illustrates a grandma's need to see all is right with her grandchildren.

4) "I think Boone and I are agreed that boring doesn't enter into what we have," Emily said with a chuckle.

"Some details you can keep to yourself, young lady." Cora Jane scolded.

Emily laughed. "I'm definitely not planning to discuss my sex life with you. You might be inclined to turn around a tell me about yours."

For an instance her grandmother looked shocked, but then a grin spread across her face. "As if I'd do such a thing," she muttered indignantly.

But Emily noticed she didn't deny that there was a sex life to be discussed. Just thinking about that kept a smile on her face all the way to the airport.

-Yes, the main couples are having sex but most of it is off screen, except for kisses, and Cora Jane's is complete speculation at this point.

5) "The Farmers (in-laws) aren't the only family you and B.J. have," she reminded him.

She thought she saw some of the tension in his shoulders ease at her words.

"You have no idea how much I count on that," he said.

She grinned at him. "Doesn't need to be legal to be real," she told him. ...

-Isn't that the truth! Sometimes we're blessed with a blood family that is wonderful and sometimes we're blessed with circle of friends that are family.


I haven't mentioned Boone's parents have I? They're there but still not. I'm looking forward to meeting them. Also crossing my fingers that things improve with the in-laws. Otherwise I'm going get out my wet noodles!

Lucky me, book two (Wind Chime Point) is on my shelf and book three (Sea Glass Island) should be here on the 28th :-)

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
contemporary romance
In the Middle
ARC Clean Sweep
Monthly Mix-up Mania
Where are you reading/50 States

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #53: William's House (sexy)

William's House
Hidden Magic #1
Amber Kell

978-1-78184-308-6
Total-e-Bound
May 2013
83 pages
ebook
Age range:

Paranormal Romance, male/male, fantasy
source: Private Library

Born a void, someone who cannot perform magic, Will Stamson moves away in order to live on his own, away from his matchmaking family. While house-hunting, he falls for an old mansion that calls to him…and is situated on a vortex of magic almost limitless in power.

Cassius Grant, Cash to his family, is charged with getting rid of the house’s new resident. Determined to evict the interloper, he is taken aback by the beautiful, wilful man who refuses to abandon his new house under any circumstances. Cassius realises the best way to deal with the man is to keep a close eye on him…and what better place than from Will’s bed?

~*~*~

Betrayal, secrets, true love, and laughter. Throw in a hit-and-run, a ghost, and a Zombie Master and you've got yourself a great story.

Nowhere near long enough.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook
m/m romance
Monthly Key Word
Paranormal
Where are you reading/50 States
Witches and Witchcraft

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #52: With This Kiss, part three (NSFW)

With This Kiss, part three
Eloisa James
9780062276957
HarperCollins-Avon Impulse
March 26, 2013
87 pages
ebook
Age range:18+

Regency-era Romance
source: Private Library

Dear Readers,

We left Colin Griffin and Lady Grace Ryburn in an inn, when she just realized that it would break her heart to marry a man who loves her sister Lily-and believes he made love to Lily, when in reality he was making love to Grace.

But Colin has decided that he should imitate his pirate father, throw propriety to the winds, and simply take what he most wants. . .

Be sure to read the first two parts of With this Kiss before leaping into Part Three!

With all best wishes,

~*~*~

and in 87 pages, Ms James takes us through the convincing of Grace to marry (forceful but not off putting with gentle spots), stopping by an unknown parish with a special license and having a profound effect on the Parish Priest, rescuing a horse (showing true colors), loving each other.

She leaves us with an epilogue of "Ten Years Later" that is most satisfying. I still want to know the ins and outs of the ten years but am happy with the ending.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #50: The Teacher and the Soldier (sexy)

The Teacher and the Soldier
Ellery Mountain #2
RJ Scott
978-1-78184-283-6
Total-e-Bound
2013
87 pages
ebook
Age range:18+

Romance, male/male
source: Private Library


Luke Fitzgerald left Ellery Mountain for college and vowed never to come back. When his father is murdered he has no choice but to return. Luke only goes home to sell off his share of the Ellery Mountain Cabins, but everything changes when he meets the son of the other owner. Daniel Skylar is an ex-soldier who lives every day to the limit and sees a future in Luke.

It doesn’t matter what Daniel says, or how much he needs Luke; Luke isn’t staying once everything is sold off. Surely Daniel can understand that?

~*~*~

I knew going in that they'd end up a couple, after all, I'd already read book 3. Only, the interactions were so good that there we several places where I seriously doubted it would ever have a happy ending.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook
romance
m/m romance

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #49: Three Little Words (sexy)

Three Little Words
Allison Cassatta
978-1-61124-406-9
Amber Quill
2013
186 pages
ebook
Age range:18+

Romance, male/male
source: Private Library


After Matt’s “perfect” life comes crashing down around him and the man he plans to marry leaves him, he has it in his mind he’s going to make an escape, take an adventure up to New England and get away on the open seas with the big brother with whom he needs to reconnect after too many years apart. He plans to spend months away from home, clearing his mind and experiencing a different way of life, but undying feelings and a catastrophe with Luke, his lifelong best friend, causes him to go running back home, only to be met with the ignorance and hatred of the people dearest to Luke.

Will an old love be the key to unlocking Matt’s heart and sending him on the right path, or do some secrets and feelings need to remain locked away for the comfort and security of everyone involved?

~*~*~

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook
m/m romance
Men in Uniform

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #45: With This Kiss, part two (sexy/NSFW)

With This Kiss, part two
Eloisa James
9780062276940
HarperCollins-Avon Impulse
March 2013
62 pages
ebook
Age range:18+

Regency-era Romance
source: Private Library


Lady Grace Ryburn has accepted another man's proposal after the love of her life, Lieutenant Colin Barry, asked for her own sister's hand in marriage.

But when Colin returns home from the wars, injured in body and spirit, will she be able to turn her back and marry another? Or will she throw away every rule her mother taught her and try to seduce a man who has shown no interest in her kisses?

Part one must be read before reading parts two and three. Author's Note: Lady Grace is the eldest daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Ashbrook, from The Ugly Duchess, and Colin is the eldest adopted son of Sir Griffin Barry, from Seduced by a Pirate. In its entirety, With This Kiss is a 200-page double-length novella.

~*~*~

As with most trilogies, we are thrust into the middle, barely catching our breath from the cliffhanger at the end of part one before heading for another one.

I'm not liking Grace very much at the moment. She's being insensitive, pig-headed and self-absorbed.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook
romance

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #33 - 34, the rest of the series The McMurrary Clan (NSFW)

The McMurrary Clan is part of the Midnight Matings/Unmated at Midnight series

Book 1: Trunk and a Skunk
Book 2: White Knight and Black Fur
Book 3: Rumble and Churr
Book 4: Elder and the Youngest

 

Rumble and Churr
Unmated at Midnight
Joyee Flynn
978-1-62242-752-9
Siren Publishing
April 2013
143 pages

Romance, m/m, shifters
adult themes
source: private library

Emiel wants to be the dutiful son and make his parents proud. But at what cost to himself? He needs help, and all of his friends are so wrapped up in their own new matings he’s lost. Yet like the selfless man he is, he puts that all to the side when he finds there’s someone else that needs a friend more than he does and helps Aldis’s breathtaking younger brother.

After being tricked by a coven leader, Sealey’s given up the idea of being anything other than a chew toy for a bunch of vampires. But hope just might come in the form of a gorgeous, massive elephant shifter. Will he be able to let Emiel heal his heart, or is his ability to trust anyone destroyed? And how is Emiel going to make Sealey his when he’s still engaged and risks losing everything if he breaks it off?

~*~*~

There comes a point when "being a dutiful child" is wrong. Maybe it's just me but marrying someone your parents approve of (not an arranged marriage) that you don't love...in fact, is of the wrong sex... is wrong. So for much of the book I just wanted to slap Emiel upside the head.

That is a sign of a great character isn't it? The reader's strong reaction?

Then there was the frustration because of the lack of action by those who were supposed to care. I was very happy with the way things ended and glad to see there was another book.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
male/male romance
ebooks
Quick Fix


 

Elder and the Youngest
Unmated at Midnight
Joyee Flynn
978-1-62242-800-7
Siren Publishing
April 2013
160 pages

Romance, m/m, shifters
adult themes
source: private library

When the vampires come after Lachlan, his father sends him to America, but that still puts Lachlan in a precarious situation… One that he doesn’t want his family dying over to try to save him from. So when the stunning rhino shifter makes him an offer that would keep everyone safe, he has to take it.

Even if it means using himself as the bargaining chip and being mated to an elder.

Percival was already trying to help, but when he sees the youngest McMurray, he figures out how to get the authority he needs over the vampires and snag the most gorgeous man he’s ever met. Now if he could just figure out what Lachlan wants before driving them both crazy.

But when Lachlan realizes it’s not a partner that Percival wants, but an uncomplicated, permanent boy toy, can he deal with that and be what his mate desires?

~*~*~

Oh man. This was the perfect example of what happens when you don't communicate! We've already got the vamps being bad guys (okay, one clan) but there were times I was thinking the Elder that was supposed to be the hero of the story was one of the bad guys!

Love the fight scenes, the meeting with the werewolf Alpha and the happy-ever-after. Please Ms. Flynn? Write another!


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
male/male romance
ebooks
Quick Fix

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #32: White Knight and Black Fur (NSFW)

White Knight and Black Fur
Unmated at Midnight
Joyee Flynn
978-1-62242-625-6
Siren Publishing
March 2013
118 pages

Romance, m/m, shifters
adult themes
source: private library

When his cousin is forced to mate by UPAC, Aldis uses the excuse of bringing Dor’s stuff to his new home to check and make sure everything is really okay. What he didn’t prepare for is the sexiest man he’s ever seen to open the door… And proposition him.

Gawain can’t believe his luck when the sweetest little minx agrees to go to bed with him. And he’s a skunk shifter too! He’s dreamed about experiencing the things they can do.

While everything is amazing in the bed they jumped right into, the rest is a joke. So when there’s a problem with UPAC, Gawain snatches the chance to prove to Aldis that he’s so much more than hot skunk sex to him. But when Gawain’s past comes back to haunt him, will Aldis stand with him, or will it be another reason for him to walk away?

~*~*~

Oh, wow. This was so much better than expected! Sure the sex is still hot but Gawain's story and the interaction between characters is fantastic. Aldis worry over his younger brother is heart-wrenching (there has to be a story there), his concern for his cousin is heart-warming but the reason he came to Florida is all too real.  Wouldn't it be nice if we could all afford to hire a plane to run from bad relationships!

Is telling you there is a twist a spoiler? Well, doesn't matter now. The twist came out of left field! And in keeping with the baseball analogy, the resolution was a home run.



Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebooks
Color Coded
Colorful
male/male romance
ebooks
52 in 52
What an Animal
Where are you reading/50 States
Quick Fix
Spring into Horror

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #22 (NSFW)

Whiskers, Mane, and a Biter
Unmated at Midnight
Joyee Flynn
978-1-62242-066-7
Siren Publishing
December 2012
110 pages, approx.

Romance, m/m/m, paranornal/shifter
adult themes
source: private library

Brad Hercules wanted James from the moment he met the huge lion shifter… But he was invisible to the man. Over the months of working for Ant, he heard the stories of James’s conquests and realized if he was ever going to have a shot with the man he needed to change into James’s type. Mainly, tight-bodied little twinks that know how to have fun.

James wrote off Brad for the kind of fun he wants from the sexy little mouse shifter because he’s too innocent and James won’t risk breaking Brad’s heart. When Ramses shows up to take Brad’s old job when he gets promoted, everything changes. He wants Brad so bad he takes a job he’s overqualified for. When Ramses makes his play, James refuses to be left out and moves in on Brad.

But who is the screechy bitch that shows up trying to ruin their lives?

~*~*~

Brad and James were both secondary characters in the previous book and I'm happy they got their own story. Sure throwing in a third gives the story some punch but what really makes it pop is the screechy bitch and the love and support that follows here introduction.

The Pride (lion/James), Mischief (mouse/Brad) and covens (vampire/Ramses) work together to make sure that the three guys have their own happy ever after and that the punishment fits the crime(s).




Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebooks
male/male romance

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #20 (NSFW)

Trunk and a Skunk
Midnight Matings
Joyee Flynn
978-1-62242-623-2
Siren Publishing
March 2013
110 pages

Romance, m/m
adult themes
source: private library

When the elders’ plan is revealed, Dor Murray grabs the obviously confused and enormous guy next to him, figuring the guy could use some help getting out of there… And he could use a shield.

Except UPAC screwed up. Surprise, surprise.

They let an elephant into the conference, and of course, that’s who Dor grabbed. Now he’s got a massive, but hot, elephant shifter in musth who’s decided Dor is his.

Wyatt is oblivious to everything but the gorgeous man in his arms that he wants to claim. The guards are freaking out and Dor is begging him to run.

Trying to save Wyatt from UPAC wasn’t the same as agreeing to be his mate. And now Dor has to handle Wyatt’s aggressive, testosterone-filled musth for the first nine days of their mating. Will Dor ever be able to forgive Wyatt for what he’s done when he wasn’t himself?

~*~*~

Once again the Elders made a mistake. This time it was letting an elephant into the meeting. Not that they have anything against elephants but their drugged drink forced said elephant into a week long heat with an unsuspecting man. A much smaller man and the elders were fearful the elephant would kill him and others during his lust-blind week.

Surviving Wyatt's musth (think cat in heat) is a piece of cake for Dor compared to the in-laws. Wyatt's Mother and Sister are a real piece of ...something. There is a happy ending with a hint of a related story with one of Wyatt's friends and Dor's cousin. :-)



Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebooks
A to Z
male/male romance
Monthly Mix-up Mania
Paranormals
What an Animal
Where are you reading?/50 States

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013