Wild Thing

Title: Wild Thing
Author: Lena Austin
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60521-273-9
Genre: {M/M} Shapeshifters
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Dr. Lee Porter, a professor of geology returns to his family’s homestead outside of Yellowstone Park, Colorado before beginning his new job. Recurring episodes of black-outs prompted his career change and move. While making an inspection of his property, Lee finds an almost wild-looking naked man sick with fever in the barn. Lee soon discovers the man’s name is Will. They have a mutual magnetism but Will is much more than Lee thinks, which Lee will soon discover.

Wild Thing is book two in the Coyotes of Yellowstone series. Meeting Will opens Lee’s intellect into a realism that he had never thought of before and it is Will that understands what really ails Lee. The creative genius of Lena Austin’s characters continues in this well written, fascinating and humorous installment. This is a splendid story that I enjoyed immensely.

Best Vacation That Never Was

Title: Best Vacation That Never Was
Author: Lynn Lorenz
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: www.loose-id.com/

ISBN: 978-1-59632-998-0
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Troy Hastings is packed; ready to go and only hours away from his dream cruise vacation when his life goes up in smoke, literally. As a result, he loses everything he owns and the fire department has to rescue him from the ledge outside his fiery bathroom, wearing only a damp towel. To make matters worse, he’s alone and has nowhere to go, since all his friends have already left on the cruise. Coming to his rescue is hunky young firefighter Jason Cooper, who wants to help him get his life in order. He offers Troy a place to stay until his friends get back into town.

That means Jason has seven days to woo Troy by giving him the wonderful vacation he’s missing, and to convince him that his favorite firefighter is the man he’s been waiting for his entire life. The two spend their fun time jet skiing, parasailing, and having the best sex of their lives, and even play at a little light bondage. The question is whether at the end of the week. Troy will find a new apartment and leave Jason behind, or will he take a leap of faith and stay.

Best Vacation That Never Was is another fun and lively read by talented, multi-published author, Lynn Lorenz. The story starts with a bang, or maybe I should say a raging inferno, giving the story an unusual and unexpected dramatic twist for a contemporary romance. The scenes describing Troy, his reactions while trapped, the fire and his rescue are wonderfully crafted; realistic, vivid and action packed, drawing the reader into the story, demanding they read on.

While their life experiences and jobs are vastly different, as are their ages, at heart Troy and Jason are just what the other is looking for. If they can get past a few misunderstandings, and a lot of mutual unease, they had a chance at a future together and this is where Ms. Lorenz excelled. Their happiness in the newness of their growing relationship is nicely balanced with the uncertainty each feels when they open their hearts to potential pain and rejection.

The sex between these two men is sizzling hot and there’s lot of it, but it never overwhelms the emotional aspects of the story, or the fun Troy and Jason have just sharing a day together. The daytrip scenes are great, and I loved how Jason courted Troy with the over-the-top vacation he missed because of the fire. This is an enjoyable book; just perfect for an afternoon read.

The Gypsy Legacy: The Marquis

Title: The Gypsy Legacy: The Marquis
Author: Denise Patrick
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 1-59998-693-0
Genre: {M/F} Historical
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

Jay Collings, the Marquis of Thanet, has returned to England after being away for years to complete a promise given to a gypsy for her help. He needs to find the mate to the necklace he has in his position, and marry this particular woman. What he discovers from the solicitor regarding his father’s will require a lot from him, and he realizes that he has to break his promise to inherit. When he arrives at his country home, Jay seeks out his two charges, Christina and her sister. After spending a full day with Christina, he knows that he wants her for his wife.

Lady Christina Kenton has the life of a pauper. She and her younger sister are living in the dowager house to escape the clutches of the steward. She has promised to marry her stepfather’s son or rather one of them….Jay and not listen to her great grandmother’s request that she find the mate to her necklace. Christina is trying to keep her emotions in check, as expected by women of quality, but she knows that Jay is causing her to forget everything.

The Gypsy Legacy: The Marquis is quite an intriguing story that leads you around the countryside, and is the first in the series. I found it very interesting how the villain was thinking only of his own well being, and considered murder an everyday thing. The fact that Jay and Christina didn’t trust each other really hindered their efforts to become truly husband and wife. There was always some incident to add to the tension they felt and it didn’t help matters that the villain hadn’t been apprehended. The secondary characters really add to the unfolding plot and a pleasant added distraction.

Denise Patrick had done a wonderful storytelling job that leads off with murder, gypsies, hatred, and beautifully fashioned clothing. I really loved Christina’s independence, and applauded her fearless and proficient handling of her pistols. It was kind of tricky how Ms. Patrick ended this story, because I just knew the villain would get away, and cause more problems for Jay and Christina. I loved every moment of reading it. I am looking forward to dive into the next book in The Gypsy Legacy series.

The Gypsy Legacy: The Duke

Title: The Gypsy Legacy: The Duke
Author: Denise Patrick
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 1-60504-182-3
Genre: {M/F} Historical
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

Brand Waring, heir to the Duke of Warringham, has returned home after being kidnapped as a child. He wants nothing more than to find out who was responsible for his and his brother’s abduction. When he finds himself gazing at his friend’s sister Felicia, with a longing he never thought he was capable of, he tries to suppress it. With the help of his business partner, Brand is able to bring closure to each situation that arises for him.

Felicia Collings is in her second season, and refusing marriage proposals comes easy for her. The ring that her great-grandmother left to her is what she is going by, and no man has yet spoken to her about it until Brand. When he kisses her, he causes Felicia to forget everything she needs to say, and Felicia doesn't want it to be that way. She is a crack shot, firebrand, spoiled by her family and determined to marry a duke.

The Gypsy Legacy: The Duke is the second book in the series and I have concluded that Ms. Patrick has outdone herself in storytelling. This book continues with telling of the lives of the siblings Jay, Christina, Jon, and Felicia. I loved the fact that everything that their great-grandmother taught or told them came to pass and she had a lot of faith in them to accept what she said. When Brand and Felicia got together, I knew there would be fireworks, and I was right! I found myself laughing, and wanting to shake the both of them a few times for their doubts. Now that the two of them have expressed their true feeling, they can get on with their lives.

I really enjoyed how Ms. Patrick unfolded the plot surrounding the kidnapping, and the deaths of so many people for revenge of one bitter person. The secondary characters, some of the older generation, were an added plus with their input and the controlling of the younger siblings. The descriptions of the fashions and scenic properties of each estate are beautiful, making them leap off the page. I now must read the next book to find out whom the last brother ends up with!

The Lost Books 1&2

Title: The Lost Books 1&2
Author: Evangeline Anderson
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-994-2
Genre: {M/M} LGBT Vampire Paranormal
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

The Lost 1: Broken Vows - 4.5 Nymphs
Gabrielle is a vampire trying to atone for his sins. It would appear to be a wasted effort for someone without a soul but for the handsome vampire, it’s a necessary price to pay for the suffering he caused over the centuries. A chance meeting with young impressionable Daniel has Gabrielle questioning his vow. Daniel has limited sexual experience, and thinks it’s high time to discover if he is actually gay. Admiring the male form is one thing; enjoying said form in his bed is something entirely different. Will Gabrielle become his willing teacher in the art of loving another man?

The Lost 2: Blood Hustler - 4.5 Nymphs
James’ grief has taken up helm as his constant companion. He isn’t ready to seek another man to fill the void left by his dead lover, let alone someone to fill his bed for one night. However, his uncertainty begins to melt away slowly from the moment he meets Tad. Hustling for a living wasn’t Tad’s idea of the perfect occupation, but he does what he has to in order to survive. Their connection is instantaneous. Can James help Tad overcome his painful past?

Evangeline Anderson’s The Lost Books 1&2 takes us into the lives to two powerful vampires. Each confronts his desire for love and a mate to share their life. The vampires are similar in their general make up; strong, dominant, and protective. Gabrielle’s and James’ genuine compassion shines like a beacon and attracted me to the characters. Their counterparts are as different as night and day, and only share similar characteristics where it counts most. Daniel’s innocence is as appealing as Tad’s street sense, but it’s their acceptance of the vampires that tugged at my heart. Gabrielle and James both had difficulty masking their emotions. When you consider how old they are, the ability to crack that defense says a great deal about the power Daniel and Tad wield. The stories both have well defined plots, and settings that draw you in and demand your full attention. I found both stories fascinating and written with a passion I’ve come to associate with stories by Evangeline Anderson. I’ve never been disappointed with one of her books and The Lost Books 1&2 is no exception.

Combustion

Title: Combustion
Author: Denise A. Agnew
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books
Publisher URL: http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59578-550-3
Genre: {M/F} Suspense
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

Autumn MacAllister returns home to spend some time recovering from a knee injury, before getting back to the her job of smoke jumping. What she doesn’t realize is her life is about to change for the better….or worse? Now that she has gotten a place to live, and a job with the newspaper, she wants to get on with her life. When she finds out who it is attending her after an accident, none other than Jack Dillon. She is overwhelmed with his constant attention, and the fantasies he presents to her.

Firefighter Jack Dillon loves his job and only wants to continue to protect and serve his town. He goes about doing his duty, fighting fires and caring for the injured, to offset suppressed emotions he wants to completely forget. When he rescues Autumn from a car accident, he finally recognizes her from school and immediately, the feelings he had for her from before comes back in full force. His determination to protect her was never a question for him, and she felt the same way he did when it came to defending their honor.

After reading Combustion, I was overwhelmed by the memory of September 11th, and had to commiserate with the characters because of the loss of my parent at that same time. While I was reading this story, my mind kept wondering back to the fire that took the lives of Jack and Autumn’s parents, and why things turned out the way it did for them. This is an action packed story with fire being the main attraction, and the sex was just as combustible as the fires being fought. It was very interesting how the plot unfolded for me, and had me really thinking about the motives of the arsonist.

Denise A. Agnew has done a wonderful job of telling this story of the dangers that can happen to firefighters during a fire, and of what happened after September 11th. With so much emotional baggage from the past between them, I am surprised that Jack and Autumn were able to bond at all. The ending is action packed, and cleared up a lot of different questions I had. I loved every moment of reading this book and look forward to reading other books from Ms. Agnew.

Spot Me

Title: Spot Me
Author: Andrew Grey
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-61581-049-9
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Dan is a forty year old man, recovering from a broken heart. Working out daily with his best friend has helped in the healing process. Dan’s expected his gym visits to help him tone and possibly add some bulk to his frame, not introduce him to the man of his dreams, Gene Harper.

Gene has two priorities in his life…work and bodybuilding. He wants a man who sees him as a person, not a possession. The moment he set eyes on Dan, he knew he’d just found his heart’s desire. The more time they spent together, the more Gene’s sure Dan is the one.

Now can Gene get Dan to give love a try?

Andrew Grey’s Spot Me takes us into the testosterone world of a local gym where we meet Gene and Dan. Gene sees no reason why the spring-autumn relationship shouldn’t work. I loved his tenacity and willingness to make Dan comfortable. He is also quite the romantic and if anyone deserved some romance, it was Dan. Dan’s former relationship scarred the man’s psyche. His reaction to Gene proved some of the scars haven’t completely scabbed over. While he was scared, Dan didn’t run away from his chance to experience a healthy relationship. I absolutely enjoyed Andrew Grey’s book. From the characters to the setting, he adds just enough detail to make the gym scenes come to life. Those who enjoy the genre should pick up a copy.

Immortality is the Suck

Title: Immortality is the Suck
Author: A.M. Riley
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-999-7
Genre: {M/M} Vampire
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Adam's an undercover vice cop working a drug deal that goes terribly wrong when he is caught in the crossfire between the cops and the bad guys. The last thing Adam remembers is dying on the warehouse floor, held in the arms of Peter, his good cop best friend, and sometimes, lover. So Adam is confused and a little surprised when he awakens in the morgue naked with a tag on his toe.

Immortality is the Suck is an exciting and hilarious story that is well paced, well written and intriguing. The story is written as a conversation between Adam and the reader with Adam asking questions that I found myself giving responses to. Adam has a few flaws besides being a vampire which bestows reality to the character. Adam is surrounded by chaos, most of which is of his own making since he is on a mission to discover the why, how and what is happening to him. However, he does have a few redeeming qualities. Peter is an all around good guy who should be elected to sainthood; no matter what trouble Adam is in, Peter is there to provide support. The emotional interaction of the characters is amusing and sometimes heart wrenching. The amazing A.M. Riley had created an excellent saga that I absolutely enjoyed, as well as recommend to everyone who is a fan of this genre.

Mask

Title: Mask
Author: Jan Irving
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-61581-048-2
Genre: {M/M} BDSM, Paranormal
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Nick knows his relationship with Miguel is coming to an end. Unable to get what he needs from his boyfriend, he ends up in a chat room where he meets Obsidian. Without ever meeting in person, this mysterious man has already given Nick more than Miguel ever did.

Kain is hiding, not only from those around him, but also from himself. Lonely and in need of some human contact, he enters a chat room and meets the young, innocent Moonbeam. Soon his need for Nick grows into something he is not sure he can handle.

Mask is a fast read, not because of its size (over 200 pages) but because once you start it, you won't be able to put it down. The story is centered on two lonely men, one a young, innocent artist and the other a reclusive, jaded businessman who meet in a chat room. Drawn to each other from the beginning of their relationship in a world that is often dark, intense and occasionally violent, they will have to survive many tests before they can find their happily ever after.

Filled with strong interesting characters, a story line that will keep you on your seat and some intensely hot sex scenes, Mask is a must read for any M/M lover.

Droit de Seigneur

Title: Droit de Seigneur
Author: Alice Gaines
Publisher: Red Sage Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.eredsage.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60310-362-6
Genre: {M/F} Historical
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Satyr Vael

Guy of Bournwood has seen more than his share of death while a knight in the Crusades. Now he’s haunted by memories and nightmares, and the only thing that keeps his soul from fading completely is Claire, a young woman who lives in the village his keep protects. Claire is set to marry the miller’s son, however, Guy realizes it’s now or never if he ever intends to have her. Declaring his right to the wedding night as the lord--the droit de seigneur--he takes Claire into his bed… and ultimately his heart.

Droit de Seigneur is a sweet but sensual medieval tale of true love. Guy is a tortured man, plagued by his experiences in battle. Yet beneath the cold exterior, he’s a man with a heart of gold. Claire, while virginal in every aspect of the term (until Guy), is sweet and quick to learn, and she doesn’t shy away from the pleasures Guy teaches her.

I’m a sucker for medieval romances, and this one is no exception. It’s very well written, but still light enough for a very pleasant and quick read. If Droit de Seigneur is anything to go by, I’ll be searching out more of Alice Gaines’ books in the future.

In the Rough

Title: In the Rough
Author: JB McDonald
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: www.torquerebooks.com
ISBN: 978-1-60370-779-4
Genre: {M/M} Gay Erotic Contemporary
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Jay has his fair share of problems, but his daughter Emmy is the sunshine on his darkest days. When Jay believes someone has harmed his daughter, he’s ready for her mother to relinquish custody. But in the eyes of the court, Jay is in no better condition to take care of Emmy than her mother is. He will have to change his life completely, if he expects to gain physical custody. It’s a long road to travel for a man with no real source of income or a decent roof over his head.

Rick and Jay grew up together. Both abused as youths, the two friends are still supportive of one another. Rick knows Jay is capable of much more than he puts out. He wants his friend to show the world his true talents. Is this situation with Emmy just the push he needs to clean up his act?

In the Rough took me through a gambit of emotions. JB McDonald takes us through Jay’s new situation, while giving us a glimpse at his troubled past. To see that he came this far after the suffering he went though makes you root for him that much more. I loved these characters. The story flows seamlessly through the present and past events, weaving a story that keeps you enthralled. JB McDonald knows how to hold a reader captive with his wit and heart-wrenching stories. Readers of the genre will be happy they picked up a copy of In the Rough.

Bittersweet

Title: Bittersweet
Author: Maura Anderson
Publisher: Aspen Mountain Press
Publisher URL: http://www.aspenmountainpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60168-234-5
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Chocolatier Brandon spends long hours creating erotic chocolate candy rather than go home to a lonely house. His former corporate live-in boyfriend dumped him, stating that Brandon is not worthy of a real relationship. Since the break up, Brandon, who’s a biker with tattoos, hangs an invisible “off limits” sign on all guys in suits. This mind-set works until David comes to the shop to pick up an order of chocolates for his best friend's wedding. The chemistry between the two men is irresistible, encouraging Brandon and David to explore the possibility of a long-term relationship; something both men are missing in their lives.

Bittersweet is a wonderful story of a budding romance. Beneath the bad-boy image of his appearance, Brandon is a friendly and sensitive man. David is down-to-earth and shares most of Brandon’s common interests. The talented Maura Anderson has created a tale showcasing sensual desires as well as secondary characters that add humor into this engaging and enjoyable story.

Sweet Oblivion 4: Swarm

Title: Sweet Oblivion 4: Swarm
Author: Jordan Castillo Price
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59596-398-7
Genre: {M/M} Paranormal, Dark Fantasy
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Satyr Vael

Michael is convinced there’s more to Wild Bill’s artistic side than Bill is letting on. So when Bill mentions a mural he did once, before his turning, Michael manages to talk him into seeing if it still exists. They find the mural… and a lot more than they were expecting. Now the trick is getting out before things blow up in their faces.

Sweet Oblivion 4: Swarm is hard to describe. A great installment to the series, it keeps up the same classic play between Michael and Wild Bill. This time, though, there’s a more subdued but still intense undercurrent running through it.

While there is less action (at least outside the bedroom--there’s still the perfect amount of sex), the tension is thicker than it has been in the previous books. I didn’t know how the end would turn out, but true to form, Price left us with another wonderful glimpse into Michael and Wild Bill’s bizarre life.

Boys of Summer

Title: Boys of Summer
Author: Cooper Davis
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com
ISBN: 978-1-60504-637-2
Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Hunter has fallen in love with his best friend, which would be fine, if he were gay. When Hunter and Max go on vacation, they take the time to decide how they really feel for each other. Hunter soon realizes that falling in love with Max was the easy part; now he just needs to tell their friends.

Written in the first person, Boys of Summer is the story of two friends who have fallen in love. The only problem is that one of them has always been straight. As Hunter comes to terms with being gay, we are right there with him. Max's understanding of Hunter's fears, not of loving him but of coming out, are believable. The scene in which Hunter and Max come out to their friends was one of my favorite. This was a very enjoyable story with characters that the reader will care about right from the beginning.

Don Juan and Men: Stories of Lust and Seduction

Title: Don Juan and Men: Stories of Lust and Seduction
Author: Edited by Caro Soles
Publisher: MLR Press
Publisher URL: http://www.mlrbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60820-047-4
Genre: {M/M} Anthology
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Don Juan and the Queen of the Gypsies - Jeffrey Round - 4 Nymphs
Written in first person, the “I” character and his boyfriend Stefan have cycles of lust that are more like a bad habit, consisting of manipulation and obsessive sex that they find almost too alluring to bring to a halt.

Windows to the Soul - Nancy Kilpatrick - 3 Nymphs
Bobby is contented to live with the ghost of his dead husband Michael until he is seduced by a man he dubbed The White Man because of his angelic appearance. However the morning after sharing a night of amazing sex, Bobby wonders if his encounter was with an angel or a demon.

The Seductive Gaze of Don Juan Miguel - Neil Plakcy - 5 Nymphs
Sean Corrigan has heard the rumors surrounding Juan Miguel’s seductive expertise. Nevertheless, Sean’s common sense declares he is not interested in becoming another one of the man’s conquest, even if his body finds Juan Miguel irresistible.

A Weekend in the Country - Caro Soles - 4.5 Nymphs
Count Andrei Alexandrovitch Rubikov has all the charisma of a sexual hunter, able to lure his prey until he captures them, followed by promptly losing interest in the game. He then returns to his live-in lover Mishkla, who is standing on the sidelines watching, yet unable to break the invisible love/hate bond that holds him to Andrei.

Don John - Paul Bellini - 4 Nymphs
Pete considers himself an unattractive old man. Obsessed with male prostitutes, Pete always pays well and treats each hustler as if he’s the most important person alive. Even being arrested for soliciting is not enough to restrain Pete from his lusty recreations.

The Boy Who Bled Rubies - T.C. Calligari - 4 Nymphs
Palae is a thief for the mere challenge of it; he has never encountered a lock he could not open. When he chances into the last locked door, he finds Uilliam, a seductive young man who is more worthy than any riches Palae could ever steal.

To Damn a Saint - Paul G. Leroux - 4 Nymphs
Padre Francisco Luis Sayal is on a mission to gain evidence and a confession from Don Rodrigo Sastre, who is accused of crimes against religion, a sodomite. However, the only facts that the pious Padre Francisco can find against Don Rodrigo is that his beauty inspires lustful thoughts. Too late, Padre Francisco realized Don Rodrigo had been damned as guilty by the sanctimonious church before he could be proven innocent.

Tell Me a Lie - Todd Gregory - 3 Nymphs
Phil is cruising the bar, hoping to get lucky with a one night stand. He is just about to go home, when Troy walks up and smiles. The meet and greet game has begun, affecting his standard shy smile. Moving to a more private location and playing the game to perfection, both men gain a pleasing finale.

The Sixth Position - Kyle Stone - 3 Nymphs
Luc Beaulieu is a dancer with aspirations to be famous; however when he is offered the chance to have fame forever by Conner, a vampire, Luc declines when he realizes it is the challenge that fuels his cravings for fame.

Descenso - Storm Christopher - 3 Nymphs
Armand is angered when an appealing stranger threatens his ultimate Master status at an S&M bar and effortlessly steals his favorite submissive. Familiar only with inflicting pain for his pleasure, the sub’s side is revealed to Armand when he is seduced into a deadly lesson of endless agony and hell.

Possession - Michael Rowe - 3 Nymphs
Dan discovers that he secretly desires a family friend, Matt. When he learns that Matt considers him as a father figure, Dan must be content with his fantasies and the only keepsake of Matt’s he can have.

Don Juan and Men: Stories of Lust and Seduction is a fantastic collection of the chase, the conquests and the losses of sexual desires. Spanning from historical to contemporary, funny to kinky, the collection has something for every fan of this genre to enjoy.

The Bond That Saves Us

Title: The Bond That Saves Us
Author: Christine d’Abo
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/
ISBN: 9781419923173
Genre: {M/F} Futuristic SciFi
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

For the first time in ten years, the infamous Catallian space race is being held and the best pilots from all over the sector are gathering to compete for its large winner’s purse. Captain Amy Bryson isn’t any different. She’s come to the Eurus colony a few days early to get her ship ready and buy needed supplies. After an altercation with members of a rival crew, Amy finds she also needs to look for a new co-pilot. She discovers exactly what’s needed in the sexy and mysterious Sean, a man who pushes all her buttons and ratchets up her desire into overdrive. If she can keep her potent sex pheromones under control and her hands off the man, they might have a chance of winning…more than just the race.

When former colony administrator Sean Donaldson meets sexy Amy, he’s smitten. Once he discovers that the woman driving him out of his mind with desire is in need of a co-pilot, he volunteers, willingly leaving behind his friends and duty. He’s determined to keep Amy safe from harm and help her win the race. What he doesn’t intend is for a permanent mate bond to form between them, but life don’t always work out the way you plan.

As Sean and Amy fight an attraction they can barely control, they must also battle against a powerful, ruthless and wealthy drug dealer intent on getting what he wants, no matter who he has to kill to get it. And Sean, Amy and the crew are standing in the line of fire.

The Bond That Saves Us is the fourth and last release in the Eternal Bonds series by author Christine d’Abo and it’s another winner. From the very first page, this well written and plotted sci/fi romance grabbed my attention, pulling me along for a wild rollercoaster ride of passion, desire, out-of-control pheromones, smuggling, threats and a few supportive good friends. Truthfully, I’ve enjoyed all the books in this intriguing series and I hate to see it end.

Sean existed on the edges of the previous releases as an intriguing secondary character/friend, so I was thrilled when I discovered that he was the male lead in this newest release. This dedicated, guilt-ridden man has had more than his share of problems in the past, and has come off mostly as lonely, angry, sad and depressed in the past books. Ms. D’Abo did an excellent job of bringing another side of his personality out into the open, showing him to be determined, loyal, passionate and at times, a little dominating. His unexpected meeting with Amy rocks his world and changes it in ways he never imagined, forever.

The sexual tension between Amy and Sean starts off hot and only gets hotter, as these two lovers spend more time together, until their desire is molten hot and almost out of control. Both are afraid of admitting their need for the other, and the author does a wonderful job describing their unease, fear and confusion. Ms. d’Abo’s integration of old and new characters…friends was seamless, lending the story a sense of depth, caring and family. The scenes involving the thugs working for the smuggler are action-packed and filled with danger and some of my favorites. And while I know this is supposed to be the last book in the series, it doesn’t change the fact I want to know more of Ryan and Gaz and what the future holds for them and their new relationship. Read and enjoy.

Don’t Tempt the Phoenix

Title: Don’t Tempt the Phoenix
Author: CJ England
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com
ISBN: 978-1-60504-641-9
Genre: {M/F} Fantasy, Paranormal
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amazon Nymph

Milcham Phoenix asked to travel the world to see it and to find his “twin-flame”. He travels with his carnival looking for her and is also being tempted along the way by the Ancient One who hates him with a passion because he did not succumb to temptation.

Aithne wanted to be on her own since she has spent the last hundred years with her brother to keep him alive. Aithne is hired to read tarot cards at Milcham’s carnival, though he later tries to buy out her contract. Aithne’s life is threatened and both realize that they actually love each other.

This was a beautifully woven love and suspense story with a different twist. There are religious undertones because of who Milcham is, but they are true to the storyline that Ms. England has in Don’t Tempt the Phoenix. The relationship between Aithne and Milcham is very emotional as they come to terms with their relationship. Both have to make choices to determine how they will live their life together. I recommend that readers keep lots of tissue handy, as this is a tearjerker as well as one sexy-hot love story.

Wind Howl

Title: Wind Howl
Author: Vonna Harper
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60737-420-6
Genre: {M/F} Shape-shifter Paranormal
Rating: 3 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Cipher Prose Nymph

Carlan Nashel and Brett Schneider went their separate ways long ago after choosing different paths to travel. An accident that costs Carlan’s brother and Brett’s good friend, Skye, his life brings the two lovers back together again in a form neither thought could possibly exist.

I found Wind Howl an over-all enjoyable short read of two young lovers forced to go their separate ways in life because of immaturity and the impossibility to understand that choices are not always black and white.

However, the heated scenes between the now older and wiser couple were a little awkward for me because of Skye’s ethereal, but real, presence during very intimate moments. I also felt a little misled that this novella was considered a shape-shifter novella. Those two points aside, I liked the way the story shows how suppressed feelings and inner issues are better out in the open than bottled up inside.

Beautiful Boys

Title: Beautiful Boys
Author: Anne Cain
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-995-9
Genre: {M/M} LGBT Erotic Contemporary
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

What do an impromptu birthday party, a Mediterranean vacation, a college exam and a project have in common? The events involve people who know one other, and deserve a chance at love.

Dean and Neil are brothers. Dean’s vacation adventure starts out as a battle with his ex, then turns into an opportunity to discover love. Neil believes the cosmos are against him until he meets Jinx, a man who has worse luck than even Neil could possess. Nathan is pining for his roommate, and is willing to bury the bodies to help him with his dilemma. However, Gage has something else he would like to see buried. Finally, we have Andy and Luke. The men are too competitive for their own good. Is it professional rivalry or an untapped attraction that has them at each other’s throats?

I will definitely be reading Anne Cain’s Beautiful Boys again in the near future. The couples are so perfect for one another, it’s ridiculous. I have to admit I’m partial to Jinx and Neil. When Jinx started explaining just how much of a jinx he was, I couldn’t help but want to hug him, while surrounding myself with salt, clutching a rabbit’s foot and scrounging around for a four leaf clover. Ms. Cain knows how to balance out a story, and ensure it’s not just several pages of lava quality sex. Nevertheless, I will warn you to keep the fans on high and the cold cola ready and waiting. Ms. Cain overlaps the stories just enough to introduce the other characters without distracting from the pairing she is currently writing about. It made me anxious to get to the next character’s story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Beautiful Boys and have no doubt that this fast-pace story is sure to please readers of the genre.

Shoulda Been a Cowboy

Title: Shoulda Been a Cowboy
Author: Lorelei James
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60504-654-9
Genre: {M/F} Contemporary Western
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Cameron McKay never wanted to spend his life working on the family ranch wrangling steers or spending hours in the saddle every day. He took a different path and joined the military, fully expecting to spend his life serving his country. Months after he’s wounded in combat, Cam finds himself back home, in the job of deputy sheriff. He doesn’t talk to anyone about what happened in Iraq, and doubts he’ll ever find a woman willing to love a man who isn’t whole.

Ukrainian immigrant Domini Katzinski doesn’t believe in happily-ever-after. She’s seen too much pain and heartache as marriages and relationships crumble, to consider walking down the aisle herself. What she does want is a strong, dominant man who can take control in the bedroom, giving her what she needs to find sexual fulfillment. Gorgeous but standoffish Cameron McKay fills all her requirements as the perfect short-term uncommitted sex partner, and he already has his own handcuffs.

Cam gets the shock of his life when he learns shy, sweet, and quiet Domini likes domination in the bedroom, and he willing to give her exactly what she needs. He’s soon issuing orders, their passion and desire swirling higher with each intimate encounter. While Domini might not plan on a long-term relationship, Cam has other ideas, and soon launches a sensual assault to convince her they belong together. When tragedy strikes, Cam’s forced to change his tactics, if he has any hope of winning and keeping Domini in his life.

Shoulda Been a Cowboy is the seventh release in the well-written and plotted Rough Riders series by author Lorelei James and it’s my new favorite. I must admit I’ve been intrigued with this mysterious, sexy man since his initial introduction, but his standoffish attitude has left him on the periphery of the McKay family and their antics.

Many authors I’ve read have some difficulty handling characters with a disability, especially a serious one, but I’m happy to say that’s not the case with Ms. James and Cameron. She wrote his character with depth, soul and great understanding of what he had gone through with the initial injury and was still dealing with on a daily basis. Everything about his personality and his reactions to others was well written and realistic. The scenes where Cameron deals with his physical limitations are exceptionally well done, as are those where Domini, without hesitation, accepts his physical baggage.

Both Cam and Domini have big, if wounded hearts and are looking for someone to make them whole, even if they won’t admit it, and Ms. James handled their wants, needs and desires with care, finesse and great realism. Domini has her own emotional/physical baggage to deal with, and add it to Cam’s, and you have enough problems to sink a battleship. On the surface, you wouldn’t think these two lovers stood a chance of finding happiness together. Yet, Ms. James manages to do just that, throwing in several twists and turns, and bringing back the great characters from the previous releases to round out the story. I can honestly say, read this series and enjoy it, because I for one cannot wait to see what happens next.

Another Night, Another Dream

Title: Another Night, Another Dream
Author: Mechele Armstrong
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-990-4
Genre: {M/F/M}, {M/M} Multicultural Contemporary
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amazon Nymph

Cassie thought she was picking up a friend to go dancing and ended up having a surprise birthday party she did not want, with a stripper included. After a confrontation with a guest, she leaves and forgets that the door at the bottom of the stairs is locked with a chain.

Aden and Leo follow her, only to be trapped in the stairwell with her. Cassie is claustrophobic and starts to have a panic attack. Both men try to keep her talking so she will calm down. Talking quickly becomes a game of truth or dare with lots of sexual questions where Cassie, Leo and Aden get to know each other and the men finally give Cassie her fantasy of a ménage.

You feel like you are Cassie with the way the author describes her insecurities about herself and start panicking with her. The description of the two men is mouthwatering. Another Night, Another Dream is an apt title for this book. You are drawn into the game and the emotions brought up are very intense as they learn about each. I enjoyed the journey the author takes you on in this book. This book is one to add to your bookshelf if you like a good ménage story with a side of male/male relationship.

I'll Be Your Drill, Soldier

Title: I'll Be Your Drill, Soldier
Author: Crystal Rose
Publisher: Dark Roast Press
Publisher URL: http://www.darkroastpress.com/
ISBN: N/A
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

When Ryan comes out to his family, the last thing he expected was to be kicked out and lose his college support. With no other choice Ryan decides to join the Army. However, once in, he begins to wonder if he made the right decision, especially after meeting Drill Sergeant Phillip Grabowski.

Phillip Grabowski has a reputation of being one bad-ass Drill Sergeant. Although, if everyone knew how much he wanted one of his newbies, he would lose his career. Being tough on Ryan is the only way he can hide his feelings, but in the process, he turns the young man into a top-notch soldier.

There were many things I enjoyed about I'll Be Your Drill, Soldier. Set in a more tolerant and understanding America, the story is loaded with sexy men in uniform. The dialog and descriptions are so believable you almost feel as if you too are in basic training. Many of these scenes had me laughing aloud. The relationships between the strong characters, both platonic and romantic, are so powerfully written that the reader will not be able to help but root for them. While the story covers a period of several years, it does not have that dragged-out feeling that causes many readers to lose interest. While this was my first story by Crystal Rose, I hope it will not be my last. Keep plenty of Kleenex handy while you enjoy this great story; you'll need them.