Enemies of the State

Title: Enemies of the State

Author: Tal Bauer

Publisher: Nine Star Press  

Publishers URL: http://ninestarpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-911153-33-7

Genre: {M/M}, Political Thriller, Series        

Rating: Golden Blush

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Ethan has worked himself up to the most wanted position in the Secret Service, head of the Presidential detail.  Having been with Jack since the race for office, Ethan has spent a lot of time with the widower.  Now in office, Ethan is surprised by his feelings for the new President.

Tal Bauer is a new author for me and after reading Enemies of the State, I will be looking for more from this author.  Enemies of the State is definitely a book for those who love thrillers and those looking for a book with a little more meat on it will want to pick this story up, as well.  The author has done an excellent job with the character and world building and readers will find themselves pulled in from the very beginning of the story. 

Ethan is a member of the Secret Service.  He has worked hard to make it to the top and is not going to let anything take his accomplishments away.  Ethan is also gay, something that is widely known.  He also has a love ‘em and leave ‘em reputation, something he is fine with.  He is honored to be in charge of the new Presidential detail, as Jack is someone he believes the country needs.  Once in the White House, however, the standoff attitude that is needed for the Secret Service becomes hard for Ethan to hold on to. 

Jack never imagined he would find himself in the White House.  When his wife died while serving the country, Jack realized he had to step up and do his part in making America safe.  Soon he found himself running for office, and 15 years later he is the new President of the United States.  Jack is a people person, however, and the isolation that he is suddenly faced with, due to his new job, leaves him a little lonely.

Jack and Ethan soon find themselves exploring new ground and both men are confused and worried.  Yet, as they struggle with the growing change in their relationship, they both continue to give everything to their jobs.  While the relationship between these two is a strong part of the story, and the author handles the many obstacles they face in a realistic way, it is not the only focus of the story.

The author uses many of the problems faced today as issues in Enemies of the State, giving the book a current up to date feel.  Several of these issues are the focal point for a group that is planning a major coup, not only of the United States, but other areas of the world as well.  The way the author handles this part of the story is amazing.  The twists and turns leave you wondering just who the bad guys are and, while I was able to guess one, some of the others surprised me.  I was up late into the night because I could not stop turning the pages to see what would happen. I think readers will be happy with the way the story was wrapped up. 

According to the publisher’s website, Enemies of the State is the first book in The Executive Office series.  I hope the second book will be out soon as I am very curious about what the author has planned next.

Family Connections

Title: Family Connections

Author: N. J. Nielsen

Publisher: Totally Bound Books

Publishers URL: https://www.totallybound.com

ISBN/BIN: 9781784301668

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary, Series

Rating: Golden Blush Award

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Neither Ray nor Viv are gay, or so they say.  When brought together by their children, the two men have a hard time denying the attraction they feel for the other.  With their crazy family right there beside them, these two men go on a crazy journey to find love.

With each new book, I find myself becoming a bigger fan of Ms. Nielsen’s and Family Connections is no different.  This is a story that will pull the reader in from the very beginning.  All the characters are well written and the story line is one that will keep you wondering what will happen next.

It was easy to fall for the characters in this story.  Ray is a young man who has everything going for him, yet he’s lonely, wishing for someone to share his life with.  Worried about what his family would do, he continues to deny the fact that he is gay.   Ray is the type of guy that goes out of his way making sure those around him are taken care of, so readers will have no problem wanting to see him find his happily ever after.  Viv is the opposite of Ray.  While Ray was born into a wealthy family, Viv has had to fight for everything he has.  Determined to make a better life for himself and his younger brother, he works hard.  Viv has no reason to believe he is gay so the sudden attraction he feels for Ray blows his mind.  His confusion comes across the pages clearly so it is easy to understand the way he behaves at times.  That does not mean, however, that there weren’t times that I wanted to smack him upside the head.  Viv’s struggle to find himself is a tough one though, and I love how the author finally allows him to see the truth. 

The bond these two men form is a tight one and they have no problems bringing those they love into their family.  These secondary characters are just as wonderful as the main ones.  Each and every one is crazy and will have you laughing out loud at times.   This is not a light hearted story as there are some dark subjects touched on that will break your heart. These moments are important to the story and the author handles the situations very well.  

This is the second edition of Family Connections, the first having been published by a now closed company.  Those that have read the first edition do not necessarily need to repurchase the book unless they would like to have the new cover.   Family Connections is also the first book in the author’s series The Connelly Chronicles.  This is a series that I am highly looking forward to.  Book two, which hopefully will be out soon, is another ensemble story, however, books three through five are coupled based and I was surprised by one of the couples and I can’t wait to see what will happen.  This is one book that those who love the m/m genre should really pick up as you will not be disappointed.

Vexing Voss

Title:  Vexing Voss

Author:  Gail Koger

Publisher:  Loose Id, LLC

Publisher URL:  www.loose-id.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-62300-507-8

Genre:  {M/F}, Science Fiction, Space Opera, Series,

Rating: Golden Blush Award

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Zoey is hiding while trying find her mother’s killer, as well as trying to find traitors that compromised Earth’s defenses against the Tai-Kok.  She is considered a siren and has come to the attention of Voss, the Battle Commander for the Coletti.

Vexing Voss is the third book in the Coletti Warlords series.  I love this series.  Not only is there all kinds of action, the women the Coletti end up mating have some very unique qualities.  Because of the way Zoey is, this book is aptly named as she definitely causes Voss lots of headaches.  The author has created some very strong women, as well as some unique alien races, that join forces to fight against the Tai-Kok.

I was laughing at Zoey and the way she interacts with the various people she meets, including Voss.  I know that Zoey is very realistic with her actions as I actually have a couple of friends just like her.  She not only knows how to handle herself, she is a master at getting into trouble and causing extreme frustration for Voss and the Overlord.

The relationship that Voss and Zoey have is intense.  Their reactions to each other as they try to work together with the differences in their background and culture is funny.  Zoey has a way of making friends that is interesting and adds so much to the story.

The Coletti men in this series have some of the typical vampire qualities, but with some major differences.  I love the personalities the author has created, especially Voss and Zarek.  The descriptions of some of the allies are interesting and I have to laugh at the various reactions of everyone.

While the Coletti Warlords books do not have to be read in order, it is best to do so to get the most out of the stories.  Be aware that it is difficult to get the first two books as that publisher is no longer around.  I am looking forward to reading future books in this series, and will be reading this one again.

Edge of the Enforcer

Title:  Edge of the Enforcer

Author:  Cherise Sinclair

Publisher:  Loose Id LLC

Publisher URL:  www.loose-id.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-62300-398-2

Genre:  {M/F}, BDSM, Series

Rating:  Golden Blush Award

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Lindsey left Texas, after killing her husband and taking files that can protect her to keep from being murdered.  She has been working under a false last name and tries not to make friends.  She has always been attracted to deVries but knows she can’t give him what he needs.  deVries is attracted to Lindsey, but is blindsided by his feelings once he knows her better.

Edge of the Enforcer is the fourth book in the Doms of Dark Haven series and is the best one so far, in my opinion.  Several issues in the book can be taken from the news and the research regarding those issues was great.  I loved that the author also made distinctions, and showed how relationships can work within the BDSM lifestyle when there are differences in what either the Dom, or submissive can tolerate or need. 

Lindsey needed some pain stimulation, but was not a masochist and could tolerate only so much.  deVries was a true sadist and used his need to come down from the adrenaline rush of his jaunts as a mercenary.  I found the resolution interesting, because it worked after several misunderstandings.  The chemistry between the two is hot and some scenes will leave you breathless.

Once Lindsey and deVries come to an understanding, things get real interesting between the two as deVries and company help Lindsey resolve her past.  A lot of characters from the previous books show up to help.  I liked the resolution about the bad guys, for obvious reasons. 

Fans of Cherise Sinclair’s books will not be disappointed in this highly anticipated story.  While Edge of the Enforcer can be read alone, for the best enjoyment, readers should read the entire Doms of Dark Haven series.

Hell On Earth

Title: Hell On Earth

Author: Ally Blue

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN: 978-1-61922-139-0

Genre: {M/M} Futuristic Series

Rating: Golden Blush Award

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Publication Date: 06-17-2014

The quest for power is the delusions of grandeur on a path of destruction. Freedom is the illusion that masked the corruption. Sandman and Vijay are forced to live with the political deceit, but still have aspirations for true freedom. Reality’s motto for Sandman and Vijay, as well as for others like them, is only the survival of the strongest can hope for an enduring future.  

Hell On Earth is the second book in the Hellscape series. The plot is an in-depth account of life on colonized planets centuries after Earth was destroyed. Though the location is different, the same method of governing the masses of people is the same as Earth’s current government system with a few added horrors.

Sandman is a gutter, the term used for Hell’s End orphans who will do anything to survive, even turn on each other if someone feels they are a threat to the rest of the group. Sandman is intelligent, strong, fast as well as extremely capable with a knife. He can kill without hesitation. Escaping to Mars is the first time Sandman was able to sit outside in the sun.

Vijay moved to Mars after his large family died under suspicious circumstances, covered up by the government. Vijay’s skills are in the highly technical category.

Ally Blue has created an exceedingly riveting as well as a very enjoyable saga that goes beyond outstanding. The storyline compels the readers to look at the cruelties vividly illustrated and see Earth’s sadistic potential for the future. In addition to the political nightmares, there is a scorching intimacy scene that establishes Sandman and Vijay’s capacity to express love for each other even during the worst of conditions imaginable.  

Knight of Fire

Title: Knight of Fire

Author: S.J. Frost

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02014-0232

Genre: {M/M} Fantasy Series

Rating: Golden Blush Award

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Bryson, Torran, Larkin, Zain and Aleric are all honorable men brought together by the Goddess. Their individual gifts, as well as their warrior strengths, complements each other. United in battle, they are a powerful force to be reckoned with, which their enemies can confirm.

Knight of Fire is the second book in the Terra Series. This is a well written, well paced engaging plot full of deceptions, secrets, prejudice and moments of sensual intimacy. The characters, both the men and their beloved pets, seem to come to life right before the reader’s eyes.

Torran is very much attracted to a Knight of the Crown Sir Karrick Brenton. Torran did not realize the attraction was mutual until Karrick came to Torran’s rescue during a spirit battle in the woods. Days later, a royal summons gave Torran and Karrick a chance to further develop a relationship while they all traveled to Dragon’s Landing. The trip to the capital is a twofold mission; find the killer of a gatekeeper in addition to seeking an audience with the Ancient One.

Although Torran and Karrick were the featured love interest in the storyline, all of the men engage in the battles as one unit of soldiers protecting each others back. Bryson is a powerful witch; he uses magic rather than a sword. Plus, his pet Wynn is a fire breathing dragon who takes exception to anyone who interrupts his romance novel reading time. Torran is a skilled archer; his pet is Rose, another fire breathing dragon fiercely protective of her dragon speaker. Though not as skilled as Karrick, the rest of the men are amazing warriors also.

S.J. Frost has created a brilliantly enthralling saga. The interaction between the characters is enormously hilarious, the mysteries are intriguing. The battle scenes are so forceful I found myself actually cheering out loud for the good guys. I highly recommend the thoroughly enjoyable Knight of Fire.  

Count on Me

 Title: Count on Me

Author: Lauren Dane

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61921-991-5

Genre: {M/F} Contemporary Series

Rating: Recommended Read

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Sixteen years ago, Caroline Mendoza’s mother was murdered and her father imprisoned for the crime. Believing in her father’s innocence created a rift with her grandparents that drove her across country to her father’s family. Now an attorney, Caroline’s back in Petal to start a new life. She lands a job with a local law firm, and intends to mend her family split and investigate her mother’s death. Her big surprise—meeting Royal Watson and their intense attraction. Delving into the past is causing problems. Not only is her family angry but someone wants her investigation to stop and is willing to kill her to do it. Can Caroline and Royal make a relationship work while catching a killer and keeping Caroline alive?

Count on Me is the newest release in Lauren Dane’s Petal, Georgia series. While reading the books in order would be preferable, it can be read as a standalone.

This is going to be a short and sweet review. So my first remark is that I’ve enjoyed the other books in this series but this newest one is definitely my favorite. My second is that you should read it immediately. It’s an emotional read—full of love, pain, and family angst—I couldn’t stop reading.

The author’s done a wonderful job in creating Caroline and Royal. The details of their personal histories—particularly Caroline’s is well done. Count on Me is fast-paced, the imagery vivid, the sexual chemistry sizzling and it even has plenty of action and danger. This complicated story is realistic, well written, and entertaining and I encourage you to give it a try.

Born of Stone

Title: Born of Stone

Author: Missy Jane

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61922-023-2

Genre: {M/F} Urban Fantasy Series Recommended Read

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Release Date: 05-27-2014

Orestes and his twelve gargoyle brothers were magically created by the King’s wizards to protect the realm and its people and for seventy years, he has served them well. He has little contact with the human inhabitants of the kingdom, but that changes the night a petite serving woman catches Orestes’s eye. It’s obvious Astrid’s frightened but Orestes doesn’t know why. When he learns the castle overseer has beaten her, he and his brothers are furious. He takes Astrid to his room to care for her injuries and then makes love to her.

Despite her attachment, Astrid believes her new liaison with Orestes is temporary.  When he’s called away for a few days, evil enters the castle and she’s kidnapped by a traitor. Their bond is much stronger than either realizes. Can Orestes find Astrid before it’s too late?

Born of Stone is the first release in the new series by Missy Jane, Gargoyle Masters.

Wow. I’m always cautious with an unfamiliar author but when I discovered gargoyles were the paranormal shifters featured here, I knew I had to read it. Frankly, I didn’t know what to expect from Ms. Jane’s writing when I started, but I’m happy to report she exceeded my expectations. The premise is intriguing, the pace steady, and the plot complicated which kept my interest until the end. It’s also filled with interesting secondary characters and the world building is, in my opinion, top-notch. The descriptions are vivid, pulling you into the story immediately, and the details of the life and culture of the time period really brought Born of Stone alive. Even the villain of the story is interesting. And yes, the problem with him is resolved a little abruptly but you can tell by the ending that this guy isn’t finished causing trouble, and I can’t wait to see what he does in the next release. So yes, look for an ongoing story line in this series. 

Now to Orestes. What we’ve learned about him, his brothers, and their creation is an interestingly different slant on how gargoyles are usually handled in paranormal romances. It’s a definite creative flair I really enjoyed and all the little surprises really added to the overall reading enjoyment. Orestes’s also just an intriguing guy in his own right—and I like him. Add in downtrodden Astrid, and their new and growing relationship and you have a story I couldn’t stop reading. I for one can’t wait for the next release in this well written and entertaining series. Watch for it. I will be.

Secure Target

Title: Secure Target

Author: Rebecca Crowley

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61921-923-6

Genre: {M/F} Contemporary Series

Rating: Recommended Read

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Bronnik Mason is a hostage rescue operative with the South African government.  He and his partner have been trailing a serial killer for a year, even getting stabbed in their last encounter. Bronnik’s determined there won’t be a fifth victim but doesn’t realize how Lacey Cross in Kansas will engage his emotions as never before and change his life.

Lacey is nothing like her troublemaking brothers. She’s stable, responsible, quiet and has a boring receptionist job. When Bronnik and his partner accompany a local policeman into the dental office where she works with the news that a serial killer is after her, Lacey thinks its nuts. But it’s true. Bronnik’s promise to keep her safe is difficult to accomplish with his emotions getting in the way and with a determined killer on their trail.

Secure Target is the first release in the new Elite Operators series by Rebecca Crowley.  It’s a well written and entertaining romance filled with breathtaking, action-packed moments that propel you from one page to the next. It’s attention grabbing. The author kept me on the edge of my seat with her suspense-filled plot and richly developed characters. I love the vivid descriptions of the various locales as the story moves from the near blizzard conditions of Kansas to the heat of Cape Town. All the details really give the story a great background, but it’s the intense growing relationship between Lacey and Bronnik as they try to stay ahead of the serial killer that makes the story come alive.

These two characters have a sizzling chemistry from the moment they meet and it’s a juggling act to keep their attraction from getting in the way of keeping Lacey safe. Ms. Crowley did a nice job tackling this issue and made the physical part of their relationship work without making Bronnik appear irresponsible. That’s where his partner is so crucial. He’s a great secondary character and friend, helping Bronnik keep his head on straight and fleshing out the law enforcement role. So, as you can see, I really enjoyed this one and didn’t have any major complaints at the end. 

There’s so much going for this story that I don’t know how Ms. Crowley’s going to equal or top the following books in this new series. Secure Target is going to be a tough act to follow and I can’t wait to see what happens next. Watch for it. 

A Little Bit Country

Title: A Little Bit Country

Author: S.J. Frost

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02013-0128

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: Golden Blush Award

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Lead singer Ash Ivers is not all rock and roll; Ash is A Little Bit Country when it comes to a certain singing cowboy. After years of trading verbal insults through the media, meeting country music singer Jackson Abrams face to face at a benefit concert motivates Ash to save the horse and ride the cowboy. 

A Little Bit Country is a well written romantic comedy. The plot features the emotional mayhem of a public life versus the lack of privacy. All of the characters are extremely engaging, even the scoundrels inspire a respectable quantity of indignation from the readers. Ash maintains a bad boy rock star image for the public; however he is actually a very thoughtful easygoing man. Ash constantly changes his hair style as a way to broaden his connection with fans. His public exhibits of outrage are really vents regarding the disrespect displayed by others.

Jackson has a straightforward charismatic personality. His career is not just for fame; Jackson truly cares about helping people. Jackson chose to hide his sexuality from the public because of the image for that music genre. Although Jackson chose to sing country music, as well as live in Texas, he did not choose his sexuality. Jackson understood there are some people who refuse to accept the fact that being born gay is not a lifestyle.

S.J. Frost has created a magnificent saga that I thoroughly enjoyed. The storyline illustrates sensitive issues that most readers can relate to. Such as does privacy exist? What’s more, why is the public entitled to know everything about law abiding people? Other subjects highlighted are fake friends, jealousy along with fake Christians.  The characters have realistic personality traits so expressive that I laughed, got misty eyed as well as infuriated on the behalf of Jackson. I highly recommend A Little Bit Country.  

Disasterology 101

Title: Disasterology 101

Author: Taylor V. Donavan

Publisher: MLR Press

Publishers URL: http://www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN/BIN: MLR-1-02013-0115

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary

Rating: Golden Blush Award

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Anyone would think that Kevin had everything going for him.  He has a loving wife, three terrific children and, at a time when work is hard to find, a steady paycheck.  But something is missing and, while the divorce was not his choice, Kevin knows it is time for a change.  Now divorced, Kevin plans to life the live he always wanted, that of a gay man.  The only problem is that he has no idea where or how to start.  Then he meets Cedric and his life takes turns he never saw coming.

Diasterology 101 is an outstanding book.  This is a story that centers on two men that normally may not have ever met, yet a chance encounter leaves an impression neither is willing to forget.  From the start, readers will see that this story is going to be something different.  How many stories can you name where the main characters meet in a sex shop back room?  Then there are the men themselves. 

Kevin has known for some time that he was gay but, not wanting to disappoint anyone, he lives a “normal” life.  Years later, after he and his wife divorce, Kevin decides he is going to go after what he’s always wanted.  To say that Kevin is nervous is an understatement.  The moments of confusion and uncertainty, as well as the fear he feels when family and friends find out that he is gay, all come across realistically.  Then there are his reactions to Cedric and the many issues that are attached to having a relationship with the young man.  

Cedric is a young wealthy architect.  While the fact that he is ten years younger than Kevin could, under normal circumstances, be an issue for some, it is his OCD that is the main problem.  As funny as this may sound, this is where Disasterology 101 really shines.  It is clear that the author has spent quite some time researching OCD, as not only does she get the little nuances surrounding the disorder correct, but the problems surrounding medications, side effects, relationships and living issues in general are all very true to form.  Because of Cedric’s OCD, the men’s relationship does not run as smoothly as either man would hope.  I liked that the author went this route rather than making the disorder something that can easily be overcome.  The way the author handles the men’s relationship makes the story believable. 

Disasterology 101 is also full of wonderfully written secondary characters.  Kevin’s kids, especially his youngest, at times steal the scenes.  I loved how understanding they were when Kevin tells them he is gay, and the way Ava reveals that her daddy is gay had me chuckling.  This is a very well-written story.  I was pulled in from the very beginning and could not put the story down.  This is one book I will be re-reading again and again.

This Is Who I Am

Title:  This Is Who I Am  

Author:  Cherise Sinclair

Publisher:  Loose Id, LLC

Publisher URL:  www.loose-id.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-62300-148-3 

Genre:  {M/F}, BDSM, Series

Rating: Golden Blush Award

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Sam knows he messed up with Linda when she was rescued from the slavers, but he can’t figure out how.  Linda is trying to get her life back, but realizes she is a masochist and needs Sam because she feels safe with him.

The latest in the Masters of the Shadowlands series, This Is Who I Am, takes a serious look at some of the questioning that comes from realizing you need something most people don’t like, mainly pain, and finally accepting yourself. Readers that have followed this series have been waiting for Master Sam’s story and Ms. Sinclair does not disappoint.

There is a difference between actual abuse and consensual floggings, whippings or canings.  The difference is very clear in this story, but that doesn’t change the possibility that this story may cause triggers to be tripped in some readers.  The creative way Sam used these implements was wonderful and he was very careful to make sure Linda knew it was him and that she had the power to stop him anytime.

Once Linda and Sam get together, the two burn the pages up.  Sam is so caring and shows Linda what she had been missing.  Sam is so protective that Linda starts to feel safe, and with the help of friends and therapy was able to work through a lot of what happened to her.  Ms. Sinclair also did not shy away from issues with triggers and showed how a great Dom can help a sub work through some of them, and Linda had a lot.

Most of the secondary characters were from previous books and I really liked how they all pulled together to help Linda, as well as Sam.  Even though, we know that there was still one of the bad guys around the club, we got to know him a little more.  I loved the surprising way Sam settled an issue and Mistress Anne’s additional touch.

While readers can read This Is Who I Am by itself, the subplot in this story actually started with Make Me, Sir and To Command and Collar. This Is Who I Am finishes up this particular thread.  To get the most of this series, I recommend it be read in order, and I, for one, can’t wait for future stories

Note: This book contains strong but consensual sadistic elements that may be uncomfortable for some readers.

Take It Off! (Again)

Title:  Take It Off! (Again)

Author:  Justin Whitfield & Taylor Cole

Publisher:  Ellora’s Cave

Publisher URL:  www.jasminejade.com

ISBN/BIN:  9781419946783

Genre:  Non-Fiction, Sequel

Rating:  Golden Blush Award

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Take It Off! (Again) is the sequel to Take It Off, and continues telling about the authors escapades as male strippers/review dancers.  Be prepared for a wild ride as you read.  In some places you can figure out which author is writing and in others, they just come right out and tell you.

One of the things I liked was that, even though they were extremely promiscuous at times, they stressed using condoms.  There was the one exception and that was when one of the authors ended up doing a scene in a porn movie, but a clean test certificate, showing no STDs, was required on site at time of filming.

Another thing I liked is that they make it clear that dancers should have backup and contingency plans for the future, as this profession usually has a fairly short job retention at the peak of a career.  Saving is another item stressed, again looking to the future.

The last part of the book stresses exercise and diet as well as attitudes for a person’s life.  They even give a blueprint for a daily exercise program.  One of the guys even gives a meal recommendation at the end, though I’m not sure I would want to eat the same thing several times a day for days. 

I really enjoyed reading this and think a lot of their advice is very practical regardless of what job anyone chooses to do.  It is also a very entertaining book to read.  I also suggest both books be read in order and preferably back to back because they give a very entertaining look at a particular lifestyle.

Diamond Dust

Title: Diamond Dust 

Author: Vivian Arend

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61921-556-6

Genre: {M/F} Contemporary Paranormal Series

Rating: Golden Blush

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Release Date: 08-20-13

Talk about a rough week—Caroline Bradley is having one. With a large group of rowdy bear-shifters ready to overtake Takhini territory, as pack second in command, she’s busier than ever. Then without warning, her alpha lover scents his mate, changing her status. Caroline’s happy for Evan but it couldn’t come at a more inopportune time—she needs to focus all her skills to keep the town from exploding.

As one of the front-runners in the upcoming election, clan leader Tyler Harrison needs every advantage possible. As a bachelor, he’s afraid for others to trust and vote for him that he’ll need a female at his side, and Tyler picks Caroline for the role. She’s strong, independent, sexy and has influence over nearly everyone in town, both human and shifter alike. She’s what he needs and his bear shouldn’t agree more.

Diamond Dust is the newest release in Vivian Arend’s Takhini Wolves series. Because of recurring characters and relationships, I recommend the books be read in order.

Where for me to begin? How about with a general statement of how much I enjoyed this book. It’s hard to believe, but for me this paranormal series just keeps getting better with each new release.  It has so many things to recommend it—and I do. It has great characters you can care about, and they even have well rounded personalities—way to go Ms. Arend. But that’s not all. It also has a fast pace, an interesting premise with plenty of twists, vivid descriptions, and a snappy dialogue that caused more than a few chuckles. And I can’t forget all the wonderful secondary characters because this story is truly driven by how their lives interact with Caroline and Tyler.

Despite all the things going on in this story—the clan election and the Takhini pack—at its hearts you’ll still find Caroline and Tyler. I like these two. They’re so different, yet the same in so many ways and when they get together—watch out for the sparks. Unlike many paranormal books, it’s not a quick I’ve found my mate book. I’m pleased about the slower way in which the author got them together, developing a relationship first. 

So, as you can see, I’m pretty happy with this entertaining story from beginning to end. I don’t know who the focus of the next book will be but I have an idea it’ll likely be Evan and I’ll be watching for its release. I hope you will be too.

Dweller on the Threshold

Title: Dweller on the Threshold

Author: Rinda Elliott

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61921-426-2

Genre: {M/F} Contemporary Urban Fantasy

Rating: Recommend Read

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Beri O’Dell’s six feet tall and stronger than most men. She has long, white-streaked hair that glows in the sun and moonlight—and doesn’t have a clue what she is. Growing up in foster care left her feeling alone but her relationship with her one-time foster-sister, Detective Elsa Remington, is her one constant. Beri’s in Florida when she gets word Elsa’s in a coma. It seems a paranormal creature is stealing souls and Elsa’s a victim.

Determined to save Elsa, Beri heads to the city to track down whatever is responsible. Helping Beri is her two spirit guides, a witch and a fussy necromancer. The last member of their group is Nikolos, an ancient Minoan warrior, who know exactly who they need to find.  It’s a creature he fought millennia ago and just barely won—so it’s bad. But they have to try—no matter what the cost—or the Dweller on the Threshold could destroy everything.

Dweller on the Threshold is the first release in Rinda Elliott’s new urban fantasy series, featuring kick-ass heroine Beri O’Dell.

New authors are always an uncertainty but I was so enthralled by the premise of this book I had to give it a try, and I’m glad I did. Not only is Beri a complicated and well developed personality but the world building in this first release is top notch. Yes, I admit that it’s complicated and at times a bit confusing but that’s because there are so many layers, interesting secondary characters and vivid details that almost paint a picture of Beri’s world. So yes, that means you need to pay attention.

Don’t think that it’s all doom and gloom. There are some lighthearted moments and even a few chuckles because of the snarky digs and comments between some of the characters—it’s really pretty amusing. There’s some pretty intense chemistry between Beri and Nikolos too, but the love element takes a backseat to the urban fantasy part of the story, all without shortchanging it. Well done, Ms. Elliott.

I really couldn’t get enough of this wildly creative story and was disappointed when I got to the last page. I didn’t want it to end. I wanted more. Be aware that this is an ongoing story arc and several of the plot threads are left dangling to be dealt with in the next book. Look for Blood of an Ancient coming in October. I can’t wait.

Something In the Way He Needs

Title: Something In the Way He Needs 

Author: Cardeno C.

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62380-536-4

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary BDSM Series

Rating: Recommended Read

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Asher Penaz is a man who likes to be in control, whether professionally in his role as a police captain or personally when he visits the local leather bars. That’s why he can’t understand his sudden attraction to the sweet tempered Daniel Tover, who isn’t into the BDSM scene. Daniel’s spent his entire life moving from one job to another looking for that one special thing or place that would make him feel the call of being ‘home’. He’s never found it but doesn’t stop looking.

Neither can deny their attraction and when Asher invites him home, Daniel can’t do anything but say yes. It takes time to blend two such different lives together but both men are determined to succeed, despite the struggle. They have so much to learn and lose if it goes wrong. If Daniel can learn to trust and Asher can give up control, these two men might just have the chance at the happiness they’ve both been looking for.

Something in the Way He Needs is the first book in the new Family series by Cardeno C. I’m going to make this review short and to the point. It’s good—really good—I hope you’ll take a chance and read it good.

First let’s address the BDSM. Yes, there are aspects of BDSM because Asher comes from that world but the story doesn’t dwell heavily on it. If fact, just the opposite. There’s light spanking and lots of dominant hot sex but I think this is the first book I’ve read where the author writes a convincing story of love and its emotional impact making a Dom change his lifestyle for the man he loves. It’s so realistic I nearly cried later in the book.

I like both Asher and Daniel. They’re pretty complex individuals with well-developed personalities and their pasts play heavily on their present, making each deeply flawed. The plot is nicely constructed with a smooth flow, there’s vivid imagery, good secondary character integration and a few surprises to keep it interesting and the pages turning.  I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

After the End

Title: After the End

Author: Alex Kidwell

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62380-308-7

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: Recommended Read

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Dragon Minx

When Quinn O’Malley’s partner dies of cancer, he can hardly cope. He withdraws from life, pushes his friends away and cocoons himself in the memories of his ten years with Aaron. He hides behind his grief, working in his comic book store, but he’s lost the joy of life—and forget about his art or dating again.

Despite his reluctance, Quinn’s best friend insists he move on with his life. She arranges a blind date with Brady, a gorgeous party planner, and suddenly Quinn’s world is taking a direction he didn’t expect. Brady’s making him think about possibilities and its scaring him—and making him feel guilty. Can Quinn let go of his hold on the past and take that first step forward into the future and begin anew—with Brady?

After The End is the first book by this talented author that I’ve had the pleasure of reading but it won’t be the last. Okay. I admit it. I don’t often gush about a book but I love this one. A lot. The premise isn’t particularly original but the manner in which the heartwarming story comes across reminds you that there’s always hope. The plot isn’t perfect because there are times Quinn’s attitude got on my nerves but at the same time, it’s everything a book should be. It’s sad, funny, filled with grief and pain, has some snappy dialogue, it’s witty, heartbreaking, has lots of angst and is ultimately highly entertaining. Add to these, great descriptions, wonderful personalities, a smooth plot flow, and even Winston—the cute cat.

Some people might be put off by the amount of angst found in this story but it’s also the reality of life. People handle grief differently and have difficulty moving past the death of the ones they love. So despite the deep pain this story is realistic, but through it all Brady is great, allowing Quinn to work through his feelings at his own speed. Yes, I got teary but this story deserves the emotion. Okay, I’m done. Just know that I’ll be reading this one again in the future.