Making It Real

Title: Making It Real

Author: Victoria Blisse

Publisher: House of Erotica

Publisher URL: http://www.houseoferoticabooks.com/

ISBN: N/A

Genre: {M/F} Contemporary

Rating: Golden Blush

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Rose Nymph 

Mary loves to write and loves to share her passions online with like-minded people. She also enjoys partaking in the occasional session of cybersex, all in the name of research, of course. Oh who is she kidding? Mary loves being able to immerse herself in her fantasies, exploring her kinks and testing her online lovers’ ability to type one handed. She never really expected to make such a connection to someone as she has to Will, an American guy who posts to the same forums as she does. 

Forum conversations lead to instant messaging, and Mary knows she’s in deep when every minute she’s not talking to Will, she’s thinking about talking to him. Sure, he’s not perfect. He acts a bit strangely at times, and there’s definitely stuff he’s not telling her about his private life, but Mary just can’t deny the feeling she gets whenever she’s online with Will. 

When Will surprises Mary by telling her he’s visiting England soon and would like to meet up with her, she is ecstatic. She’s been let down before by people pretending to be someone they’re not, but she can’t possibly miss the once in a lifetime opportunity to meet her online man in the flesh, can she? 

Making It Real is a fantastic story about a very modern relationship. The online flirting that deepens into something more is very realistically portrayed and I love how the characters tackle their unique relationship. I felt Mary’s curiosity about Will and frustration at not being able to get closer to him completely. There was a lot of mystery to Will that kept me reading and made me relate to Mary’s plight totally. The sexual tension, online and in person, is finger tingling, and I love how this balances out with the more mundane aspects of Mary’s life. The plot twists and develops at a good pace, the characters are fascinating, and the style of writing wrapped me up in their word to such an extent that I was sad when it ended. I may be slightly biased as I can personally relate to most of the plot, but Making It Real is an amazing, enjoyable read that I cannot recommend enough.

Cherish Your Name

Title: Cherish Your Name

Author: Mary Calmes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN: 978-1-61372-247-3

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Fantasy Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx 

As a Warder, Malic Sunden is used to battling demons and other creatures, but this Christmas season he’s doing something even more terrifying. He’s spending two weeks with the family of his beloved hearth, Dylan. They think Malic is much too old for Dylan and have made their feelings clear…they don’t like him…at all. At least their neighbor Brad seems to like him or does he? When Malic goes to rescue Brad he winds up being offered to a demon as a sacrifice, making him forget everything but Dylan’s name. Can Malic remember enough of himself to escape from Hell and make it back to the man he loves and thinks of as his home? 

Cherish Your Name is release six in the Warder series by Mary Calmes and this Christmas novella is the perfect way to end such an enjoyable and entertaining series, or is it really the end. There are hints that there might be more in the future. Fingers crossed. 

The colorful imagery of the over-the-top Christmas decorations covering nearly every available surface in the Shaw house and yard had me chuckling. And poor Malic. The Shaws really don’t like him and treat him horribly. It eventually causes him to doubt his relationship with Dylan and the expression of his pain is more than a little heartbreaking.  But some of this trouble can be laid at Dylan’s feet. He’s so interested in seeing his old friends that he’s ignoring Malic and hasn’t got a clue what his family is doing until it’s almost too late. But then watch out for some well-crafted possessiveness and jealousy.   

It was nice seeing a few of the other Warders when things got dicey and this is where we get hints that something new is happening with some of them getting new abilities. The demon portion of the story is small but important, showing the pull of a Warder and his hearth and the depth of Malic and Dylan’s love.  

I’ve enjoyed this entire series so it’s hard to pick my favorite. What I can assure you is that this holiday novella is fun, lighthearted and entertaining and I’ll be reading it again in the future.

War

Title: War

Author: T.A. Chase

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing

Publisher URL: www.total-e-bound.com

ISBN: 978-0-85715-847-5

Genre: {MM} Paranormal, Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx   

Russell Heinz is rescued by War when he was shot and barely hanging on to a cliff in Afghanistan. When Russell recovered from his wound, he returned to his army unit only to have two fellow soldiers die within feet of him. Again, the Red Horseman War comes to save Russell and in doing so, War is also saved. 

War is book two in The Four Horsemen Series. In this well-written episode, Russell sought to escape his small hometown in Kansas rather than face possible homophobia. Even though the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell laws have changed, Russell remained in the closet around his comrades.  Experiencing death first hand, Russell mind shuts down, causing him to be sent to a mental ward suffering from survivor’s guilt. War understands feeling guilty because he has centuries in that mindset. It takes divine intervention to prompt Russell and War to work towards letting go of the past along with closing the wounds.  

T.A. Chase has created a fascinating romance derived from a fear-provoking religious theme. By illustrating the beauty of love, the purpose of War is featured as a necessity to redeem mortals from evil as well as preserving the balance between Heaven and Hell. War is an amazing plus exceedingly enjoyable realistic saga.

The Shark Who Rode a Seahorse

Title: The Shark Who Rode a Seahorse

Author: Scarlet Hyacinth

Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand

Publisher URL: www.sirenbookstrand.com

ISBN: 1-61926-229-0

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Paranormal Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx 

Shark-shifter Byron Cunningham realizes his feelings for seahorse-shifter Skylar Pierce are the real thing but knows they’re too different to be together. He’s a huge monster that everyone’s afraid of, while Skylar’s small and sweet…so Byron pushes him away. Days later at a party, Skylar’s attacked and almost raped by a wolf and Byron knows it’s not possible to stay away any longer. 

Skylar has been looking for his soul mate for as long as he can remember and when he meets Byron feels an instant bond. As they try to make a life together, they’re faced with many new challenges, including an unexpected pregnancy. Being a father isn’t something Byron ever expected but he’s ready to defend his family from any and all threats. 

The Shark Who Rode a Seahorse in release five in Scarlet Hyacinth’s Mate or Meal series. As with the others, the characters and friendships overlap, so the books should be read in order. 

This one might be my favorite. It’s very well written and integrates BDSM elements into the story nicely. It’s the first time this lifestyle’s been included in the series and it’s handled well, without allowing the pain/pleasure aspects of Byron and Skylar’s relationship to get too heavy…but it probably should have been mentioned in the publishers blurb.  

From their first meeting, I knew Skylar and Byron would make a great couple and Ms. Hyacinth proved me right. She’s created two characters with vastly different life experiences and personalities, and initially it doesn’t look good for them. Here’s where some of the twists and turns start, putting Skylar in danger and setting off all of Byron’s protective instincts. But it does get them together. Along the way numerous returning secondary characters make an appearance, Skylar’s unexpected pregnancy throws a wrench in things and family trouble arrives. The surprises just keep coming, along with more danger…but it all flows nicely, speeding along as the story races to the end.  

One of the twists endangers all the shifters and I’m assuming we’ll see the effects of its resolution in the next release. Be aware that the epilogue jumps ten years, propelling the series into the future and getting it ready for the next release, The Gazelle Who Caught a Lion. It features Angel and Clark, who were introduced as the adopted children of Brody and Carson from The Lamb Who Cried Wolf.

A Brac Pack Crazy Family Christmas

Title: A Brac Pack Crazy Family Christmas

Author: Lynn Hagen

Publisher: Siren -Bookstrand

Publisher’s URL: http://www.bookstrand.com

ISBN: 1-61926-228-2

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Series, Holiday

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph 

Maverick knows just what his pack needs to have a wonderful Christmas if he could only get them to agree. The Brac Pack warriors and their mates realize they have one crazy family but things are more out of control than usual and, to top it off, Maverick is running around handing out parts in his Nativity play that seems to have strayed from the original version. 

During the holiday season, many authors of a series will throw out a short holiday novella for their readers. Author Lynn Hagen has followed that tradition, however, instead of a short story touching on only one of the series couples, A Brac Pack Crazy Family Christmas touches on all of the main couples in the Brac Pack series. Each couple gets their own section in the story, which flows smoothly one into the other and keeps the story going without any issues. This is a fun filled story that centers on the family, so the troubles usually faced by the various members of the pack do not show up. That is not to say all is calm and quiet.  

When Kota inadvertently insults one of Santa’s elves, the elf decides to cause a little mischief with other members of the pack. What follows is sure to cause more than one reader to bust out laughing. The mates are their usual feisty selves, in fact, I couldn’t help wishing for the chance to go shopping in Paris the way the mates did. It was also funny watching both the mates and warriors run in fear whenever Maverick showed up to pass out copies of his Nativity play.  Many times I wanted to rush to the end just to see how the play would turn out.  When I finally arrived to that part of the story I was not disappointed.  The play was probably one of my favorite parts of the book; I loved how each of the pack members finally got pulled into doing the play, giving it their all so the children would be given something special for Christmas. 

The blurb on the publisher’s website mentions a surprise ending and they weren’t kidding. I did not see the twist the author threw in at the end and can’t wait to see how it will play out in the rest of the series.

The Lynx Who Claimed the Sun

Title: The Lynx Who Claimed the Sun

Author: Scarlet Hyacinth

Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand

Publisher URL: www.sirenbookstrand.com

ISBN: 1-61926-127-8

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Paranormal Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx 

From the moment lynx-shifter Garth Mckenna first laid eyes on Nicolas, he thought the hummingbird-shifter was the hottest man he’s ever met. He quickly becomes the center of Garth’s world, his love and his unexpected mate, but making a relationship work isn’t easy for two such different individuals. When Garth’s sons reject Nicolas, he’s upset and doesn’t know what is wrong or what to do. 

Nicolas has problems of his own. He doesn’t remember much of his past and has kept it a secret from his friends. He’s loves Garth and is hurt about the kids change in behavior and doesn’t understand their rejection. But things get worse when his past comes back to haunt him, threatening the people he cares about.  When Nicolas disappears, it’s up to Garth to find him before what started twenty years ago, comes full circle, ending his life. 

The Lynx Who Claimed the Sun is release four in Scarlet Hyacinth’s Mate or Meal series. Note: Due to the interweaving of characters, the books should be read in order. 

It’s another fun and entertaining look into this unique shape-shifter world and it just keeps getting better and better. Garth and Nicolas are interesting guys and each has problems they’re dealing with, and I really appreciated the inclusion of Garth’s children. They certainly add an extra level of strain on their relationship and let us see another side to Garth...that of parent. Too bad the kids are little monsters to Nicolas…but it did fit in nicely with the plot.  

The story has a little bit of everything. A nice plot with a steady pace, good personality development, plenty of secondary characters, a fun, snappy dialogue and lots of sizzling hot sex. You don’t learn too much of Nicolas’ background until the later part of the story when a dramatic twist finds him back in the Mexican rainforest where he was born. Its here you’ll also find action, danger, betrayal and deceit as Nicolas struggles to survive and Garth attempts to save him.   If you enjoy shifter stories or have read the other books in this series, I know you’ll like this one. Give it a try. Look for The Shark Who Rode a Seahorse next.

State of Affairs

Title: State of Affairs

Author: Dany Sirene

Publisher: Changeling Press

Publisher URL: www.changelingpress.com

ISBN: 978-1-60521-756-7

Genre: M/M, M/M/M Dark Fantasy

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx   

Jade Harron is not convinced his king’s plan to spy on the neighboring court will work. Even the best laid plans have a way of changing. Instead of gathering information, Jade procured two lovers, Prince Keandre and Gareth, Captain of Prince Keandre’s guard.   

Jade was not always a royal spy, his former profession was that of a featured attraction at the local whore house. Of course Jade has always had a craving to wear women’s clothes which proved to be an asset in his new line of work. Keandre loves the male anatomy; Keandre regarded Jade in drag as the answer to his royal dilemma. Gareth is bi-sexual; however a male in a dress brings his fantasies to life.  

Dany Sirene’s State of Affairs is an impressive and exceptionally enjoyable happy for now saga. 

Texas Two Step

Title: Texas Two Step

Author: Cynthia D'Alba

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN: 978-1-60928-632-3

Genre: {M/F} Contemporary Western Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx 

Release date 02/28/12 

It’s taken six years but rancher Mitch Landry is ready to admit he made a huge mistake in walking away from Olivia Montgomery. The second mistake was the wife he divorced, but now he wants Olivia back and he’s ready to do whatever it takes to get her. 

Olivia survived the breakup with Mitch with the support of her family, lots of tears and hard work. In the intervening years her world has focused on her business and small son. Olivia’s not proud of the mistakes she’s made or the secrets she’s kept, but did what was needed to survive a painful situation.   

At the wedding of mutual friends, Olivia and Mitch are thrown together and the sparks fly. After one scorching kiss, emotions spiral out of control, leading her to hope a one-night stand will get Mitch out of her system. Can she let the past go, or will her secrets tangle them together into a life neither wants? Or do they? 

Texas Two Step is the first release in Cynthia D’Alba’s new contemporary western series, Texas Montgomery Mavericks. This author is new for me, and I’m glad I gave it a chance. I really enjoyed this first book in the series, and after reading the quality of the writing I have high hopes future releases will be just as well-written and entertaining. 

The story is well-plotted, and there’s plenty of angst and unresolved emotions between Olivia and Mitch. These two have nicely developed personalities and detailed personal backgrounds, and there are numerous secondary characters woven in throughout the story. The pacing moves along at a steady clip…certainly not a rollercoaster, but it never plods or drags in the middle either. As the story progresses, the author throws in several twists and turns to keep things interesting and Olivia and Mitch off balance. 

The characterization of Olivia and Mitch is nicely done. From the opening pages you know exactly what each feels for the other…the tension is nearly palpable…but neither wants the other to know. The scenes are vividly described, from the weather to the clothing and only get more detailed when the story moves to Mitch’s ranch.  

Now for Adam. This little guy is a definite scene stealer, and I really appreciate that the author didn’t relegate him to the background but kept him an integral part of the story. Okay, that’s it, I’m done for now, but I can’t wait for the next release in the series.

Russell’s Reversal

Title: Russell’s Reversal

Author: Stephani Hecht

Publisher: eXtasy Books

Publisher URL: http://www.extasybooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-77111-025-9

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Series

Rating:  4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph 

Dalton has a lot in his past to overcome.  Enslaved after the death of his family, it is only due to The Coalition that he is free today.  When he finds his mate at a wedding that ties a wolf pack with the coalition, he is thrilled beyond belief.  But then Russell’s past comes into play and Dalton wonders if their relationship is beyond fixing. 

Russell’s Reversal is the fourteenth addition to The Lost Shifter series.  While Dalton and Russell had been introduced in past stories, and their relationship was mentioned in the last book, the author backtracks so that the reader can see how the two met.  Although both characters pull you right in to this newest story, it was Russell that really grabbed me.  This is a character that was forced from his pack because he was gay and had to make a living any way he could.  Being branded an outlaw by the leader of his old pack, Russell decides to become one. I liked the fact that he makes no excuses for what he does, yet realizes that because of Dalton he must now change his ways.  

Dalton in some ways is still an innocent, even after having been a slave.  The connection he has with Russell is instantaneous and the two together are hot.  I loved the way Dalton stands up to the others in the coalition with regards to his relationship with Russell.  When he throws their behavior towards Russell into their faces I wanted to say “so there”.  When news that Russell, at one time, had contact with someone involved with slavers comes out, Dalton’s reaction is expected, so much so that you can see it coming. 

Russell’s Reversal is not only about the two men’s relationship.  With this story, the author moves the series in a new direction.  Due to the actions of the ravens, the relationship between humans and shape-shifters is about to change.  This opens the way for even more stories to be added to this series.  In many ways each book can be read as a stand alone; however, readers will get more enjoyment from them if read in order.

Love’s Strategy

Title:  Love’s Strategy

Author:  Samantha Kane

Publisher:  Ellora’s Cave

Publisher URL:  www.jasminejade.com

ISBN: 9781419911606

Genre:  {M/M/F}, Historical, Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph 

Leah is a widow with two small children, left destitute when her husband died with a lot of gambling debts.  Valentine and Kurt approach her on the recommendation of a friend to ask if she would marry them both. 

Love’s Strategy is the third book of the Brothers In Arms series and will take the reader on a suspenseful trip after Leah’s brother-in-law kidnaps her children. The reader learns that in some cases abuse is acceptable within the society that the story takes place.  Even after a death, gambling debts were considered a legal debt to be repaid by the family and any property of the spouse could be confiscated by these ‘creditors’.  I found it to be interesting that families could actually be placed in debtor’s prison for gambling debts during that historical timeframe. 

Leah learns what it is like to make love to the men and realizes what she had missed while married to her late husband.  The scene in the drawing room between the three is hot.  The scenes between Valentine and Kurt are scorching so keep ice on hand.  Mention is made of the mysterious enemy that keeps popping up, though the villain in this case is obvious.  The resolution of this situation surprised me a little in how it was handled.   

While I’m learning that you can read these as stand-alone books, I strongly suggest you read this series in order.  As I learn more about these men’s lives after war, I almost wish I had a few of them for myself.

New Legs, New Year

Title: New Legs, New Year

Author: Sean Michael

Publisher: Torquere Press

Publisher URL: www.torquerebooks.com

ISBN: None listed

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary BDSM Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx                                             

It’s the holiday season and Jeremy should be happy, looking forward to Christmas and New Year’s, but he’s not. Because of his back, his doctors have ordered him new, lighter weight prosthetic legs and he doesn’t like them one bite. He’s anxious, upset and angry, and wants the old ones back. Can Simon figure out what’s really wrong and then give his lover what he needs to deal with his newest medical hurdle? 

New Legs, New Year is from the Naughty line of Christmas Sip releases and follows along in Jeremy and Simon’s lives from Forged in the Hammer series.  I’ve loved these two characters since their introduction and was thrilled to find them featured in this short story. While it can be read alone, you’ll enjoy it much more if you’ve read Forged first. It covers some serious issues but that doesn’t mean it’s not fun and entertaining. 

Jeremy is having trouble dealing with the change to a different pair of prosthetic legs and this new stumbling block brings all sorts of worries to the forefront of his mind. I really enjoyed seeing their love and that Simon is willing to talk about what’s bothering his man, but it still doesn’t stop him from giving Jeremy what he needs to feel grounded and loved. That means plenty of support, understanding and sizzling hot sex between two deeply devoted men as they tackle the challenges of life.

Fangs, Fur, and Snowballs

Title: Fangs, Fur, and Snowballs

Author: Stephani Hecht

Publisher: eXtasy Books

Publisher URL: http://www.extasybooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-77111-054-9

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Series

Rating:  4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph 

Not only is it Christmas, but this is the first time Chris’s and Russell’s wolf packs will be joining the coalition members in the celebration of the season.  Assigned by Mitchell to organize the party, Keegan soon finds things are more than he can handle on his own. 

Fangs, Fur, and Snowballs is The Lost Shifters holiday release by author Stephani Hecht.  This fast-paced novella does not center on any one couple, rather it gives the readers a quick peak into the going-ons of many of the couples that readers have already meet.  Whether it’s Keegan’s OCD, the action of eagle twins Riley and Xavier, or seeing Russell and Dalton with their babies, the readers will find something that draws them to this story.   

The author also uses this book to introduce new characters, some of whom already seem to have made a connection, as well as hint at upcoming issues the shifters will face.  If you’re looking for a good holiday read, then make sure you pick up Fangs, Fur, and Snowballs. 

Beautiful Harmony

Title: Beautiful Harmony

Author: S.J. Frost

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-60820-510-3

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary, Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx   

Surviving the rough patches in their long term relationship, Kyler Christenson and Robbie Russo are on the road to more happiness when Kyler invents several exceptionally creative methods to express his love for and to Robbie. 

Beautiful Harmony features the characters from Black Heart Down, a spinoff from the Conquest Series. Robbie is overjoyed by Kyler’s significant proof that the only true gift worth giving to another is the gift of love. Kyler and Robbie have loved each other since high school, although it has only been recently that Kyler could openly communicate his feelings for Robbie. Finally out in the open, Kyler does exceedingly well in demonstrating his true personality to Robbie, both in spectacular examples of intimacy in addition to other marvelous illustrations of affection. 

S.J. Frost’s characters’ update encourages smiling, warm tingles, moments of awe as well as the urge to cheer. I thoroughly enjoyed Beautiful Harmony.

At Love’s Command

Title:  At Love’s Command

Author:  Samantha Kane

Publisher:  Ellora’s Cave

Publisher URL:  www.jasminejade.com

ISBN: 9781419914041

Genre:  {M/M/F}, Ménage, Historical, Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph 

Sophia is finally going to marry Ian. Thinking she is just going to be in the background while Ian continues his relationship with Derek, she learns that both men want her as their wife in a triad relationship. 

At Love’s Command is the fourth installment of Ms. Kane’s Brothers In Arms series and finally resolves a subplot from the previous books.  I was a little surprised by that as I could see where this particular thread could be woven throughout the entire series.  Be aware that Sophia’s father beat her and her brother raped her, so be prepared as you read. I could understand both Ian’s and Derek’s reaction when they found out.   

The emotions that go through this book are intense as Sophia and Derek try to come to terms with the relationship that Ian wants between all of them.  I liked the way the author showed the emotions and misgivings that the two had about each other.  As the story progresses, we see more of the relationships with the secondary characters as they help with a crisis that evolves after some revelations and threats.   

The author has an understanding of the PTSD issues that soldiers experience.  I liked the way she handled some of the nightmares, though that solution might not work for a lot of soldiers.  She slowly reveals a bit of each characters background of their military service.  I am enjoying the twists that come with each story.

Accepting His Human

Title: Accepting His Human

Author: Charlie Richards

Publisher: eXtasy Books

Publisher URL: http://www.extasybooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-77111-034-1

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Series

Rating:  4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph 

Doctor Ailean Carmichael dislikes humans and for good reason.  The last thing he’s ready for is his mate turning out to be human.  Knowing fate only gives them one mate, however, Ailean pushes the fact that Drake is human aside.  Until he learns just what the crypto zoologist as been up to. 

The newest addition to the Wolves of Stonebridge series is a fast-paced story that readers are sure to love.  Accepting His Human is the story about Ailean Carmichael, the shifter doctor who works at the local hospital.  Those who have read the previous stories know that the doctor has some serious issues regarding humans.  When his reasons become known, however, it is easy to understand just why he feels the way he does.  In my opinion though, it does not excuse his treatment of Drake.  

Drake is a young man fighting to keep his career alive.  He is also struggling to take care of his blind brother.   He’s intrigued by Ailean but doesn’t expect the man to return those feelings.  I really liked Drake but wished he would have made Ailean grovel a little more.   

The author also introduces some new secondary characters that further the subplot that runs through this series.  Accepting His Human is a great story and one that should not be missed.

A Lesson Learned

Title: A Lesson Learned

Author: Carol Lynne

Publisher: Total E-Bound

Publisher URL: www.total-e-bound.com

ISBN: 978-0-85715-841-3

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Series

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx 

Dane Jefferson’s crazy about Magnus Sofokleous and wants to get closer to the sexy professor, but unfortunately for him, as a graduate assistant, that makes him off limits. His chance comes when Magnus makes a grant application to do research at Barrett House, a small plantation in Louisiana, and due to the circumstances, Dane’s asked to accompany him. 

His strong attraction to Dane makes Magnus uncomfortable, and while it’s been difficult, he’s kept the younger man at arm’s length. Once they leave the campus and arrive at the plantation, he opens up, quickly becoming sexually involved with Dane. When his young lover refuses to accept any part of a dominant/submissive lifestyle that Magnus has used to protect himself, he must decide what he wants more…the man or the submission. 

A Lesson Learned is release number fourteen in Carol Lynne’s Campus Cravings series. It’s another well-written and plotted story; it filled with plenty of vivid details of the Barrett House plantation and grounds. I really enjoyed the history Ms. Lynne wove of what happened with Dane’s ancestor and there are plenty of interesting tidbits to keep the reader’s attention as Dane and Magnus scour the island for clues. There are a few secondary characters, seen mostly at the beginning and end of the story. The most prominent one being Dane’s Uncle Fallon, who I’d like to see more of sometime in the future.  

I really enjoyed Dane. He’s a happy, well-rounded, likable young man, determined to get what he wants and that’s Magnus. I can honestly say I don’t understand their pairing. Magnus has serious unresolved issues from his childhood, so he’s not easy to get along with or a nice guy and I can’t get what Dane sees in him. He’s not a warm and fuzzy kind of guy. When Magnus starts loosing up to Dane and becomes less clinical in his actions I liked him better. By the end, while I thought Magnus’ turnaround in attitude was a little fast, at least I could see him and Dane staying together. Watch for the next Campus Cravings release coming in April.

Truth Or Dare

Title:  Truth Or Dare
Author:  Brenda Williamson

Publisher: Amber Heat

Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberHeat

ISBN:  978-1-61124-222-5

Genre:  {M/F} Contemporary

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph 

Laura always chose the dare instead of giving up information about herself.  That’s how she’d gotten into this mess in the first place.  Somehow she found the nerve to get on stage and participate in a pole competition.  Nerves almost got the best of her when Laura looked out into the crowd and into the blue eyes of the man she still wanted.   

Instead of dancing for Mark, Laura is forced to dance with him.  Laura finds it hard to mask the feelings she has for Mark and she’s confused by the signals she’s getting from him.  How could Mark respond to her with such passion while his wife was standing by watching?  He was married now, so that meant Mark was off limits.  Wasn’t he? 

Laura and Mark hadn’t seen each other in years until fate brings them together, much like it had in the past.  Things are hot and heavy between the two of them from the moment they meet in the club.  Mark challenges Laura to the ultimate game of Truth Or Dare and Laura finally tells the truth.  Up until this point in the story, I had no idea what was going on in Mark’s head.  I knew he’d gotten married, but honestly I didn’t care at all.  With the kind of history he and Laura had, there was no way they weren’t meant to have a future together.  It would have been a shame to see their bond broken because of a misunderstanding.  Readers will appreciate this short story because it’s a wonderful reminder of what can happen when we let down our shields and take a chance. 

Perfect Timing

Title: Perfect Timing

Author: Aimée Brissay

Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand

Publisher URL: http://sirenbookstrand.com/

ISBN: 1-61926-077-8

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx  

Vampire Valentin Alekseev stopped to rest at a tavern, miles away from his homeland, hoping he can stay ahead of his pursuers, intent on killing him.  Valentin is the only survivor from his Russian coven.  When cat-shifter Shawn Dougal walks into the tavern, he is immediately drawn to the scent of his mate. Valentin and Shawn are both surprised to discover that they are destined to be together. 

Perfect Timing is a fascinating action packed comical romance of two unlikely paranormals mated. However, the plot illustrates the increased survival benefits of their union. Valentin has been poisoned from drinking tainted blood, unable to feed; Valentin is slowly starving to death. Valentin soon discovered he can tolerate Shawn’s blood plus gain loss strength. Valentin still retains some of his powers which are a benefit during several deadly attacks on them both. Valentin has lost some of his ability to scent different species; Shawn is a great scent tracker. Valentin is a bit of a romantic as well as easily hurt by negative words. Shawn has a touch of a snarky attitude mostly due to his bewilderment of being mated to a male vampire. Shawn was never attracted to men prior to meeting Valentin. There are a couple of brief intimate scenes, although the main focus of the plot is dramatic action rather than detailed lovemaking.  

Aimée Brissay’s Perfect Timing is a thrilling and enjoyable happy-for-now saga with enough of an open ending to continue Valentin and Shawn’s exciting adventures.    

Curtis’s Dads

Title: Curtis’s Dads

Author: Lynn Hagen  

Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand

Publisher URL: http://www.sirenbookstrand.com

ISBN: 1619261227

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Series

Rating:  4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph 

Curtis is ready to lose his virginity and he knows just who to give it to.  Now if he can just get his dads to give him some privacy.  Chauncey is thrilled to finally have met his mate, especially since he won’t have to worry about explaining shifters to him. But every time he turns around, Curtis’s dads are popping up.  Just what does a bear need to do to claim his mate? 

Curtis’s Dads is the 23rd story in the ongoing Brac Pack series.  While the majority of the characters are ones we already know, their quirkiness keeps the stories entertaining and the readers coming back for more.  Curtis’s Dads is about two of those characters.  When we first meet Curtis, he was a 15 year old boy coming to terms with the changes in his father’s life, as well as the growing knowledge that, like his father, he was also gay.  In this book, Curtis is 20 and ready to experience the sexual side of being gay.  The problem is his fathers and his uncertainty of what to do once he realizes one of the Lakeland bears is his mate.  Both issues are sure to leave the readers laughing but I would advise you not to drink during the scenes where Curtis decides to ask the mates about sex, as these scenes are truly over the top and had me laughing out loud more than once.  Chauncey is all bear, but of the gentle variety, until it comes to protecting his mate.  The connection between these two men shines through clearly for all to see.  The gentleness Chauncey shows his mate is heart-warming but the sex between them is just as hot as any of the other couples.  When Curtis’s past comes out, Chauncey, as well as his brother Chance, truly show their wild side. 

There is the usual mention of the problems faced by the pack and other paranormals.  Just when I think I know what’s going on and who the bad guys are, the author throws in a few new twists and turns, which of course leaves me eagerly waiting for the next book to come out. This book is one I will be reading again and should not be missed.

Bone Idol

Title: Bone Idol

Author: Paige Turner

Publisher: Total E-Bound

Publisher URL: www.total-e-bound.com

ISBN: 978-0-85715-832-1

Genre: {M/M} Historical Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx 

It’s 1875. The Bone Wars are on and scientists obsessed with dinosaur bones are willing to go to any lengths to make a bigger and better discovery than their rivals, even if it means lying, cheating or stealing. 

Henry is ruled by logic…a man of science and a proper gentleman. When he meets the much younger and exuberant Albert, Henry’s world is thrown into chaos, bringing with it a new and dangerous desire. There’s also trouble on the horizon threatening the truth that rules his scientific mind…a lie he can’t let stand. Albert’s concerned with protecting his father’s personal and professional reputation in the competitive bone hunting world. As he and Henry join in the exciting hunt for bones and explore their growing desire, they discover some hidden secrets that could threaten their love with exposure and endanger their very lives.  

Bone Idol is the first release in Paige Turner’s new M/M historical series, Past Perfect. Generally historical books aren’t my thing but knowing it was set during the thrilling time when scientists and fortune hunters were scouring the world for dinosaur bones caught my interest. I knew I had to read it and wasn’t disappointed. The descriptions of the reserved public demeanor of the characters are spot on, as is the imagery of the weather, clothing and various means of transportation, indicating considerable research.  

Then there’s Henry and Albert, both interesting and vastly different individuals. I like them and their willingness to be together despite the possible repercussions. The dinosaur hunting and the underhanded activity associated with it is nicely handled and historically accurate…well done Ms. Turner. Here’s where the bad guy comes in…and the author has created a real nut job with this guy and after reading the epilogue, they’ll have to continue to deal with him in the next book, too.

There’s a lot going on in this short length, passion, desire, deceit, betrayal and plenty of twists and turns to keep your attention. There are also numerous interesting secondary characters involved in the hunt, some family, scientists or others out for money. My only niggle is that there’s a few spots where it feels like it jumps from one scene to another too quickly, pulling me out of the story.

Winning in a Landslide

Title: Winning in a Landslide

Author: JM Cartwright

Publisher: Torquere Press

Publisher URL: www.torquerebooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-61040-728-1

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx   

Not everyone is happy that Sheriff Virgil Grissom has been re-elected for another four years. In fact, his opponent filed a voter’s count challenge. The hard-won campaign has made Virgil surly. Luckily Virgil’s partner, former rock star Johnny Rayne, is the remedy Virgil needs to improve his mood. 

Winning in a Landslide is the Christmas sequel to A Change of Tune. Virgil and Johnny are still in the adjustment period of being a couple with two small children. In the community of Elkins, West Virginia some of the residents have mixed feelings about gay men adopting kids while a few others are simply homophobic. However, upon reflection Virgil realizes how empty his life was before meeting Johnny. Virgil refuses to abandon his home life for the sake of his career. Johnny realizes he has the life he always wanted, a loving partner and children.  

JM Cartwright’s Winning in a Landslide is an enjoyable, as well as an especially heartwarming story.