In Search of a Story

Title: In Search of a Story

Author: Andrew Grey

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62380-614-9

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

With his editor angry at his last story, Brad Torrence has one week to write another the man loves or Brad’s out of a job. He comes across an ad selling unused nursery items and Brad calls, thinking he’ll write an article about a grieving mother. What he gets is a single man with a story he didn’t expect.

Months have passed and Cory Wolfe’s still grieving, but sharing his story with Brad makes him feel better. But most surprisingly is the attraction he feels for the younger man—he actually feels alive again. As their relationship grows, Brad digs deep into another story about financial greed and it’s dangerous. If Brad’s not careful, his hunt for his next big story could very well be his last.

In Search of a Story is the last release by Andrew Grey. It’s a sweet, emotional and romantic story guaranteed to pull at your heartstrings.

Premises that are a bit unusual catch my attention, so after I read the blurb I knew I had to read it. I like how the author brought Brad and Cory’s world to life, pulling in loss, pain and anger without letting the story turn maudlin. The plot moved forward with Brad’s next news article at the same time their personal relationship develops. That brings in romance, passion, love, danger and suspense. As you can see, there’s a little bit of everything in this heartwarming story.

Both Cory and Brad are likable guys and their personalities are nicely developed. The pace is steady, the descriptions are good and various secondary characters nicely placed within the plot. I even got the happily-ever-after I wanted. I hope you enjoy it too.

The Angry Dove and the Assassin

Title: The Angry Dove and the Assassin

Author: Stephani Hecht

Publisher: eXtasy Books

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-77111-544-5

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Caley can’t believe he’s seeking refuge with a wolf pack.  Years ago wolves killed his family so he knows that they can be viscous creatures.  So when the new assassins show up, he can’t believe how drawn to their leader he is.  Grey is everything he could ever want in a mate; now Caley has to make peace with how his feelings for wolves are changing.

The Angry Dove and the Assassin is the latest addition to the Wayne County Wolves series.  The assassins Shane found to help the pack have finally shown up and just in time too.  I love that the author continues to enlarge the world in which her stories take place.  These new characters bring a lot of history with them, some of which we get the chance to see as Grey becomes Caley’s love interest.  With Grey being an assassin, the reader knows to expect a little craziness from him, but actually he is tamer than what I was expecting.  He is definitely all alpha male, however, and I like the way he clicks with Caley.

While Caley lives with Chris’ pack, and designs clothes for a lot of them, he has kept to himself since moving in.  It is easy to understand why the Dove shifter is leery about forming attachments with the wolves after what had happened to his family.  However, that all changes when he meets Grey.  The attraction between them is strong and I like the way they acknowledge the fact that they’re mates without drawing it out over a long period of time. 

To keep the story from becoming too light, however, the author brings back Rand, who causes more than his share of trouble.  The author uses this time to introduce the next group of troublemakers, as well as possible problem areas for the pack.  I like that the author introduces new situations into the series, as it keeps the Wayne County Wolves series fresh and the reader coming back for more.  I also like the twist she threw in regarding Cassie and can see it becoming a major series plot line issue. 

While it is not always necessary to read the series in order, I would recommend it as it gives you a chance to learn about the various characters in the series.

Teasing Jonathan

Title: Teasing Jonathan

Author: Amber Kell

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-78184-330-7

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

On his way to a meeting, Jonathan stops for coffee and meets Kai Stromwell, when he keeps the man from being hit by a speeding car.  It’s not long before it becomes clear that someone’s trying to kill Kai but the question is who—and why? Is it somehow related to Kai’s successful business or his quirky sister?  With the attraction between them off the charts, the only option to keep Kai safe is for Jonathon to act as his bodyguard. Can these two men work together to figure out who is targeting Kai and stop them before it’s too late? Can they make a new relationship work under the pressure?

Teasing Jonathan is the newest release in Amber Kell’s Mercenary Love series. Because of the recurring characters/relationships, I recommend the books be read in order.

Prologues aren’t usually my favorite thing but I liked this one. It allows the reader a look into the unrest Jonathan’s experiencing and is written with sensitivity, showing the long term effects of PTSD. I also appreciate how later in the story Jonathan’s concerned how his sleeping problem might interfere with his physical relationship with Kai—a real possibility.

Now to the actual story. I love how Jonathan and Kai met. It’s just the first of several action-filled scenes that keeps the story rolling along at a pretty fast pace. There are so many options of who might be behind the threats to Kai’s life that I didn’t have a clue who was behind them until almost the end. So, good going Ms. Kell. I like to be kept guessing as long as possible. 

The personalities of Kai and Jon are pretty well rounded, the imagery is good and the secondary characters are well placed. I particularly liked getting to see a little of Sin and Callum at the beginning. Kai’s sister is also an interesting addition to the storyline. I look forward to the next release.

Tiger Tiger

Title: Tiger Tiger

Author: Rachel Wilder, A. Catherine Noon

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61921-535-1

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

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Sasha and his men are settling nicely into their new lives.  The scrimmages with the Russian mob, as well as the bear shifters, have been put behind them.  But why is Sasha starting to feel so unsettled and has someone he knows gone rogue?

Tiger Tiger is the second book in the Chicagoland Shifters series.  This new story picks up shortly after the end of the first book.  Sasha, as well as Neal, Steve, Carlos, and the rest of the shifters at the Factory, have settled down and are trying to get their lives back to normal.  Of course, this is just the opening the authors needed to stir things up again and they do so in a way that pulls the readers right back into the world they created.

I like this new story line.  The fact that it is possible that the rogue leaving kills around the Factory could possibly be one of the men that belongs to Neal’s Krug, is very realistic, especially as there are some who have trouble accepting their animal side.  I, for one, seriously thought it would turn out to be TJ and wondered if it did, how the authors would make things right.  The readers will be slightly surprised when the authors start to reveal what is going on and where the fault lies.  The authors also use this situation to introduce many new secondary characters.  I found many of these characters interesting and am curious as to how they will play into future stories.  

Even with all the outside forces spinning around them, Sasha, Neal, Steve and Carlos find the time to be together.  While these four men continue to heat up the pages with their passion, it is easy to see that Sasha is starting to worry about what he has.  Unfortunately, Sasha has a right to worry and I cannot believe how he was treated by one of the men he is involved with.  I wanted to smack this person and was glad the situation was handled the way it was.  

Tiger Tiger is just as well written as the first book.  I liked the way in which the authors continued to pull me into the paranormal world they created.  By expanding the world in the way they have, the series felt fresh and the problems new.  I am curious to see how, and in which direction, the authors plan to take the next book.  Remember this is a series that will have to be read in order.

Still

Title: Still

Author: Mary Calmes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62380-695-8

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Sivan Cruz and Walter Wainwright have been a couple for seventeen years. They’ve even raised Walter’s two children together, but it doesn’t mean their relationship’s stable. In fact, it’s falling apart because they don’t communicate like they should. Sivan’s convinced Walter doesn’t love him anymore, when in fact Walter’s feelings haven’t changed. But when Sivan suggests a divorce, Walter’s hurt and agrees when he should have said no. During the months they’re apart, Sivan tries to move on but isn’t really happy. Walter determined to get his husband back, but doesn’t know how to go about it. Can these two men find a way back to each other or will they suffer in silence, alone and unhappy?

Still is the latest release by multi-published author Mary Calmes. It’s nice for a change reading a story about an older couple, even if they are an established one that’s having trouble. It’s the reality of life which is all too often overlooked, so kudos to Ms. Calmes for tackling the subject.

It’s a well thought-out story with a steady pace that has minimal external conflict. In this case that’s okay because the story focus is squarely on Sivan, Walter and their relationship.  The personalities of both men are nicely developed and the details of their life make you understand why they shouldn’t have separated. Despite the seriousness of the premise there are still plenty of lighthearted moments and some even made me chuckle, because Sivan is pretty illogical at times. Walter I really liked. He’s determined to win his husband back despite the man’s stubbornness. 

Some might complain that this story is a bit slow but I don’t agree. The pace works for what’s going on in the lives of these men. It’s warm and entertaining and had some twists I didn’t expect. And best of all, had the happily-ever-after I wanted. I hope you enjoy it as much I did.

Four-Letter Words

Title: Four-Letter Words

Author: Gabrielle Evans

Publisher: Siren Bookstrand

Publisher URL: www.sirenbookstrand.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62740-023-7

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal Series

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Zasha Gershwin doesn’t let his emotions control him. He controls his emotions. That means he cares for Thane but falling in love with his witch mate is just too frivolous for him to even consider. He understands the pull of the mate bond but love—it’s not something he plans for his life. Thane Braddock, on the other hand, remembers the love he shared with Zasha in another life time and wants it again—and he’s determined to get it back. The problems—making his stubborn mate remember their past without driving him crazy and making every mistake possible while doing it. The other—children are being kidnapped, evil is rising and the Braddock brothers are needed to stop it. Can Zasha and Thane rebuild their relationship in the middle of a crisis or will it crumble to dust?

Four-Letter Words is the latest release in Gabrielle Evans paranormal series, Haven.  Because of the interconnection of characters and the continuing plotline, I recommend the books be read in order.

There’s a lot happening in this book, so the pace is pretty fast all the way through. In fact, so much is occurring, it’s a wonder Zasha and Thane have time for each other. Between the kidnapped kids who need rescuing and the numerous characters required to help defeat the villains responsible, the distractions to their romance are numerous. More quality time before the rescue attempt becomes the prominent focus would have been nice. Even so, the story descriptions are good, there are a couple of scenes that made me chuckle and I enjoyed seeing the Braddock brothers all together. 

Now to Zasha and Thane. I really enjoyed Thane and I feel his personality is more developed than Zasha. I certainly like him more. He’s a warmer individual, while Zasha is just a tad too self-contained and aloof. That means there’s lots of angst as they try to work out their issues, but it also allows the opportunity to throw in a few twists and turns to grab your attention. It’s really a bit of an emotional rollercoaster with these two and what’s going on all around them. With the new characters added, I don’t have a clue who will be featured next but I look forward to the next release to see where the storyline goes next.

Roughed Up

Title: Roughed Up

Author: Hank Edwards

Publisher: Loose Id

Publisher URL: www.loose-id.com

ISBN: 978-1-62300-283-1

Genre: {M/M} Suspense Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Vacationing on the beaches of Barbados Island does not impede Mark Beecher’s curiosity. However, Mark’s curiosity is the source of his being kidnapped and his lover, FBI Special Agent Aaron Pearce rushing to Mark’s rescue, along with capturing a sex slavery ring.

Roughed Up is the third book in the Up to Trouble series. Mark and Pearce first met in Holed Up when Pearce is assigned to protect Mark Beecher, who was a witness to an attempted terrorist attack in Detroit. The time they spent together evolved into Mark and Pearce becoming lovers. Shacked Up features Mark who is a chef, moves into Pearce’s Washington, DC apartment, as well as getting a job catering prestigious parties. The catering company’s criminal activities lead to Mark’s unemployment and Pearce’s suspension. Pearce, who has never been in an actual relationship, is still learning to take into account Mark’s feelings before making judgmental statements. Mark worries Pearce will end their relationship. Drugged and held hostage for two days, Mark has more reasons than ever to be anxious about the endurance of their commitment. 

Hank Edwards’ Roughed Up features the dangers of traveling outside of the United States.  For example the laws of Barbados prohibit public displays of homosexuality. Slavery investigations are not fully enforced unless a possible worldwide embarrassment is likely to occur.  Roughed Up is an intriguing consciousness saga that I thoroughly enjoyed. 

Until Forever Comes

Title: Until Forever Comes

Author: Cardeno C.

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62380-666-8

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Ethan Abbatt is considered the weakest member of his pack because he can’t shift. His life is filled with pain and ridicule and he’s tired of it. His extreme answer—death by vampire—doesn’t go as expected. Instead he ends up wounded, almost drained of blood, but finds he’s attracted to the vampire leader, Miguel. When he wakes up the next morning with paws, Ethan knows his life has changed forever.

At more than four hundred years old, Miguel Rodriguez is a strong and powerful vampire and he lost his humanity centuries ago.  Until his chance meeting with Ethan and his insistence that they’re true mates, Miguel’s feelings have laid dormant but the young shifter is hard to resist.  Being together is out of the ordinary but for the two of them, it’s meant to be. The question is whether they can survive the problems trying to keep them apart.

Until Forever Comes is the second release in the Mates series by Cardeno C. and it’s actually a prequel to Wake Me Up Inside.  After meeting Ethan and Miguel in the first book I wanted to know more about them, so I was happy they were the focus of this new release.

It’s a fun and entertaining book with a steady pace, a surprising amount of tenderness, considering Miguel’s bad-ass attitude at the beginning, and some vivid world building. Both Miguel and Ethan have well developed personalities and they blend together nicely as a couple—and their chemistry—it’s sizzling. There are several seamlessly placed secondary characters but I enjoyed Ethan’s sweet sister, Crissy, the most. That’s not to say a number of those other characters don’t supply some needed action and danger—so watch out for troublemakers.

When I finished Ethan and Miguel’s story, I had to immediately re-read Wake Me Up Inside again. And I enjoyed it just as much the second time as I did the first. I hope you enjoy this paranormal romance as much as I did and I look forward to the next one. 

Paid Leave

Title: Paid Leave

Author: Haley B. James

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62380-479-4

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Benji is a member of the Albuquerque Police Department.  When he took the job, he did so knowing that he would have to stay deep in the closet.  When Benji is involved in a shooting, he is forced on leave and starts going stir crazy.  What he does not expect is to find someone like Neal, who is so comfortable in his own skin that Benji can’t help but be drawn to the other man.

Paid Leave by author Haley B. James is an interesting story centered on a young in-the-closet police officer.  I could not help thinking of the TNT show Southland while I was reading this story, and, in some ways Benji reminded me of John Cooper, one of the show’s cops.  While Benji is not as jaded as his television counterpart, his struggle to stay in the closet had a familiar ring to it.  Benji’s fears of being outed are understandable, given the way some in the police force continue to feel about homosexuality.  Given his fears, I could not believe that he started a relationship, regardless of the fact that it is only based on lust, with a reporter.  Every time Charles showed up at Benji’s place, I wanted to smack him and was so glad when Benji finally came to his senses.

Neal, on the other hand, is the perfect man for Benji.  He’s the owner of a small coffee shop and comfortable with who he is.  When the men are together, the chemistry between them really shines.  The author does a great job showing how these two feel about each other.  I loved the way in which Neal slowly brings Benji out into the world.  The fact that Benji is still in the closet puts a strain on the men’s relationship, but Benji is also feeling stress from his job.

Between the bad press the Police Dept. is currently facing, his involvement in an on-the-job shooting and his co-workers finding out he is gay, Benji has a lot on his plate.  The way in which the author chooses to settle each of these conflicts and the way in which they affect both Neal and Benji, come across realistically. 

Paid Leave is a well written story that slowly brings the readers into Benji’s life and allows them to see how meeting the right person helps him become a stronger person.  The personal and professional conflicts the men face help strengthen their relationship.  This is a story that will find its way to many keeper piles.  Fans of the M/M genre should really give it a try. 

Intimate Knowledge

Title:  Intimate Knowledge

Author:  Elizabeth Lapthorne

Publisher:  Total-E-Bound

Publisher URL:  www.total-e-bound.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-78184-268-3

Genre:  {M/F}, Mystery, Series

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

When she returns from a camping trip and getting accosted in her apartment, Jennifer calls on Saul to help her.  Saul has always loved Jennifer, but never acted on the fact since he never wanted his life at The Agency to touch her. That changes with one phone call.

The fifth installment of The Agency series starts a new mystery for the various agents.  Intimate Knowledge introduces the mystery, but mostly revolves around Jennifer’s and Saul’s relationship and the new facts that they learn about each other.   

I had to laugh as I read this book, as it seemed like the head of one section had to ask questions to find out why agents were tripping over each other without warning.  It reminded me of some of the recent news stories about various agencies not sharing information with each other.  I’m sure there will be some ramifications from this in the future.

The relationship between Jennifer and Saul is intense and also stems from the very long friendship they have.  Both have been unwilling to be the first to cross the boundary into a romantic relationship until Jennifer is threatened.  The chemistry between them is very intense and they have a hard time staying focused on staying out of harm’s way.

More information regarding some items will be forthcoming in future installments in this series, and I am looking forward to reading the next book.  To get the most out of this series, readers should read all of them in order.

Revenge

Title: Revenge

Author: Bailey Bradford

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-78184-342-0

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal Series

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

The shifter world is dangerous, which Ryder Johansen finds out when he’s kidnapped and turned against his will. It’s a situation that gives him the chance to makes changes in his life and become a man worthy of being trusted. And considering his past—that’s a big change.

Maarten Visser doesn’t know what to do with himself. When his brother returned and resumed his position as Alpha, he didn’t have anything to do. Maarten’s hoping that getting away from his pack and going on a diplomatic mission to the Alpha Anax of North America will help him move on with his life.

What neither man expects is for Marcus and Nathan’s pack to be under attack. The culprit is unknown but deadly. The reason is unknown but the collateral damage to the pack is widespread.  What is certain is that Marcus is the target and if everyone doesn’t work together, they could all end up dead.

Revenge is the newest release in Bailey Bradford’s Southwestern Shifters series. I recommend the books be read in order so you’ll understand the ongoing plotline and relationships.

I wondered how the author planned to get the series back to America and having Maarten go on a diplomatic mission for his brother is the perfect answer. He’s an interesting guy but I wish his personality was better developed.  I feel like I have a better feel for Ryder and what makes him tick. I like these two guys and on the surface, they make an odd pairing but as far as mates go, it still works—it’s the two halves make a whole. It’s unfortunate their relationship is short-changed. By this I mean the overbalance of the plot. Nathan, Marcus and the attack on the pack really overshadow them. I’m hoping we’ll see a book more focused on Ryder and Maarten in the future and a more developed relationship at that time. 

Marcus and Nathan are desperate to determine who’s attacking their pack, so they have a very strong role in the book. It also means the plot’s filled with danger, pain and fighting as they and everyone else try to survive. Ryder and Maarten get pulled back into the midst of what’s going on so watch for what happens (spoiler alert). It also means there are plenty of emotions, so be ready for the grief and angst of some of these scenes. Overall there’s a satisfying ending and I look forward to the next book.

The Fight for Identity

Title: The Fight for Identity

Author: Andrew Grey

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62380-612-5

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

For some reason, Will Martin’s father hates all Native Americans.  Since the death of Will’s grandfather when his father gained control of the family ranch, he’s refused the local Sioux access to the land they consider sacred. When Will returns home from college, he goes against his father and grants the tribe admittance for their ceremony because it’s the right thing to do. 

Takoda Red Bird is upset at being kept from the tribe’s sacred ground and when Will offers, he jumps at the chance to use it again. Except it doesn’t go as expected and Will’s father is so furious, he puts the property up for sale. The only way to keep the land out of developer’s hands is to buy it themselves.  It’s a fight that brings Will and Takoda closer, but in the process Will learns more about his family than he ever imagined—secrets that change everything.

The Fight for Identity is the third release in Andrew Grey’s The Good Fight series and it’s another entertaining addition to the family of books. While reading them in order would be beneficial, it can be read as a standalone.

I like this book for a number of reasons. It has a well constructed plot that moves forward at a steady pace, has characters with nicely developed personalities, a wonderful locale and plenty of twists and turns that kept my interest. Another thing I enjoyed is the vivid descriptions into the Sioux beliefs and cultures. It really brought this aspect of the story to the forefront and helped me to understand a way of life far removed from my own. Thank you, Mr. Grey, for your wonderful research. And I can’t forget the racism issue either. It’s a difficult one to deal with but the author handles it tastefully.

Now to Will and Takoda. I like these two guys. They both have unique backgrounds and their own share of emotional unrest to handle. That makes for some interesting moments of angst as they learn to deal with their own issues, what’s going on around them and each other. Their physical attraction is strong, the sex is steamy and their desires to be together outweigh the problems of being apart.   

My only real niggle is the quick change in attitude of Will’s father. I would have found it more believable if it had taken more time for him to come around after so many years of acting like a jerk. Still, the ending is wrapped up in a manner I found satisfying. I can’t wait for the next one.

Seductive Tracks

Title:  Seductive Tracks

Author:  Elizabeth Lapthorne

Publisher:  Ellora’s Cave

Publisher URL:  www.jasminejade.com

ISBN/BIN:  9781419942846

Genre: {M/F}, Paranormal, Series

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Kelly steals things for the thrill of it, taking care to only steal from those that can afford it.   The Enforcers and police have not been able to track her, but that is about to change.  Matt is intrigued because Kelly can mask herself among others, making it almost impossible for him to track unless he uses other means. 

The fifth book in the Urban Seductions series continues to follow the dangerous street drug, Jolt, though Seductive Tracks brings a new twist to the case.  One thing the task force wants is someone with some extremely special skills to help, and the “Shadow” fits the bill nicely. 

The chemistry between Kelly and Matt is instant and intense.  I did have to laugh at some of the tiptoeing they attempted to do about different subjects, especially when they were around others.  Very rarely does this happen in real life, though it does happen.  I did like that they both respected each other’s talents, taking advantage of using them without the arguments that sometimes happen between two strong characters.

Two of the main secondary characters were just as entertaining. The subject the investigation was about is very true to life.  I love Will, the captain of the task force, as I know a few people just like him. 

Each story needs to be read in order as each build on the previous story and what is going on.  I’m not quite sure how the author is going to resolve the situation, but it is fun reading each step and trying, unsuccessfully, to guess how it ends.

One Bad Day

Title: One Bad Day

Author: Evelyn Shepherd

Publisher: Loose Id

Publisher URL: www.loose-id.com

ISBN: 978-1-62300-357-9

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Carlos is not happy with these turn of events. Instead of spending the day in bed with his live in lover Theo, Carlos is alone and feeling down in the dumps.

One Bad Day is a short story in the Theo Bourne Series. Theo Bourne and Carlos Ramirez are detectives for the Columbus Police Department’s Preternatural Task Force. Theo is a powerful phantom; Carlos is an Alpha coyote shifter. Theo and Carlos balance each other in personality as well as their work assignments. Left to his own devices for the day, Carlos turns into a klutz. With every small mishap Carlos incurs, he mentally plots a sexual revenge scenario for Theo. The boring day suddenly evolves into a deadly tragedy when Carlos encounters a rogue vampire. Nevertheless, the day ended in an incredibility blissful way.    

Evelyn Shepherd has created a wonderful blend of humor, action and a touch intimacy.  One Bad Day is an especially enjoyable snippet.

Soul Magic

Title: Soul Magic

Author: Poppy Dennison

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62380-580-7

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Since the High Moon Pack was attacked, Cormac’s need for blood has almost been out of control. Worried he’s become a danger to his loved ones, he’s chosen to stay away from his family to keep them safe. When Cormac’s bloodlust endangers an innocent bystander, Liam, the pack beta, volunteers to feed him. It sates Cormac’s need and brings him and Liam together in unexpected ways.

The High Moon Pack remains under assault and Simon and Gray don’t know why. A person with three kinds of magic is out to destroy them and to fight such power, they need help—even if it’s from the Council of Mages and Weres. Cormac’s struggling with the knowledge that his past is hurting his family. It causes Simon to be thrust into trying to defeat their enemy using the power of the triad and if he’s unsuccessful, he could end up dead.

Soul Magic is the last release in Poppy Dennison’s Triad series and because of the ongoing storyline, the books must be read in order.

I’ve been anxiously waiting for this book since I finished Body Magic but when I got my hands on it, I was sad that this amazing trilogy had come to a close. So, before I go any farther, let me just say that I enjoyed not only Soul Magic but the entire series for a variety of reasons. The world building is complex with vivid details, there’s great personality development, couple relationships are strong and the storyline just got better from one book to the next. I can’t forget the wonderful secondary characters either. They play important roles throughout and in this release Liam and Cormac move forward into the primary romance position. 

I like Liam and Cormac and they make a good couple but with everything going on while trying to defeat the bad guy, their romance doesn’t take center stage, which is a shame. It’s my only real complaint, but there’s enough time allowed to understand how they feel for each other—it still works, even if their relationship isn’t fully developed. There are plenty of twists and danger to keep you surprised as the story races to the end. And best of all Ms. Dennison manages to nicely wrap up all the plot threads. Take it from me, read this entertaining series. You won’t be sorry. 

Tracking Desire

Title:  Tracking Desire

Author:  Elizabeth Lapthorne

Publisher:  Ellora’s Cave

Publisher URL:  www.jasminejade.com

ISBN/BIN:   9781419942921

Genre:  {M/F}, Paranormal, Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

As part of her job, Liv retrieves items when they are stolen.  Julian fell for Liv the minute he saw her while they were looking for Shadow.  Despite being human, Julian knows she is just as attracted to him as he is to her.  Looking for the antidote for the drug killing kids brings them together as partners as well.

Tracking Desire is the latest in the Urban Seductions series and brings a lot of suspense with a decidedly unusual twist at the end.  I did not see that one coming at all.  The author does resolve the mystery that this series had, with one exception.

Readers learn more about the talents the witches have and how some of those talents work.  As with anything, there are side-effects that can cause harm to those that use them, but I love that Julian is so protective of Liv, as well as accepting of her talents.  Both have created a partnership, as well as a scorching personal relationship. 

Almost all the characters from the previous books show up, but Kelly, Matt and Will are the main secondary characters.  I had to laugh at Will, when Julian and Liv decided to act on their attraction.  I hope this was not the last book because I want to know more about Will.

Deuce Of Diamonds

Title: Deuce Of Diamonds

Author: KC Kendricks 

Publisher: Amber Allure

Publisher URL: www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure

ISBN: 978-1-61124-423-6

Genre: {M/M} Detective Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

FBI agent Rick Mohr made a mistake when he walked away from Ian three months ago. However, when Ian is listed as a person of interest on Rick’s assigned case, Rick views this as hopefully a second chance to win Ian back.   Private investigator Ian Coulter’s instincts are telling him something is not quite straightforward concerning the weekly packages he is delivering to actor Saylor Blackwood. Yet Ian can find no evidence of anything illegal. It is lucky for Ian that Rick has returned to Amethyst Cove to investigate this mystery.  

Deuce Of Diamonds is the second book in the Amethyst Cove Series. The plot features the emotional turmoil of developing a committed connection. Ian has abstained from having casual flings, once he admitted to himself that he wanted a monogamous relationship with Rick. However, Ian fears his dreams of their future may be too late since Rick returned to his former lover. Ian’s current main focus is building his business, Amethyst Cove Security and Investigations by increasing his clientele.

Rick regrets leaving Ian, but Rick suffers from trust issues because of past relationships. Solving the case was only part of Rick’s agenda; clearing Ian of any wrongdoing, as well as getting back together with Ian was also prominent in Rick plans. 

KC Kendricks has created a splendid as well as an exceptionally enjoyable follow-up to Double Deuce.

Pitch Perfect

Title: Pitch Perfect

Author: Sierra Dean

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61921-658-7

Genre: {M/F} Contemporary Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Release Date: 08-06-13

When Emmy Kasper’s hired as the head athletic trainer for the San Francisco Felons, she’s thrilled. It does means leaving her father in Chicago and making a new life for herself across the country. It didn’t mean almost running her bicycle over two of the team’s players on opening day and one is star pitcher, Tucker Lloyd. It’s an accident that could end her new career before it even begins.

Tucker’s just coming back after an injury and at thirty-six, he’s worried he’s nearing the end of his career. Getting knocked to the ground before training even starts isn’t how he expected to begin his day. When he learns the identity of the woman responsible, Tucker knows he’s in for trouble. How will he ever keep his mind on saving his career when all he can do is think about Emmy?

Pitch Perfect is the first release in Sierra Dean’s new series, Boys of Summer. It’s a fun and entertaining look into the world of professional baseball. Yes, I know the premise isn’t exactly original but that doesn’t stop it from being the perfect read for a hot summer day either. Whether you’re a baseball fan or not, you’ll find yourself pulled into the story of how Tucker and Emmy get together.

It’s pretty obvious that Ms. Dean’s either a fan herself, has done a lot of research or both. For me, the vivid details really helped the game and the world they inhabit come alive. That goes for the information regarding Tucker’s continued rehab too—I was able to understand him more easily. Please be aware that the book takes place almost entirely inside the baseball sphere and scenes rarely occur outside them, besides a bedroom. I admit I would have liked a little more variety once their relationship got off the ground. And did I mention Tucker and Emmy are smoking hot?

Secondary characters are numerous. I particularly like Tucker’s friend Alex and hope to see him featured in the future. But then several of the other players would be interesting to learn more about too. I look forward seeing what happens in the next book. 

Time Weaver

Title:  Time Weaver

Author:  Kate Donovan

Publisher:  Samhain Publishing

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

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-61921-005-9

Genre:  {M/F} Retro Romance, Time Travel

Rating:  3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

For months Alexander BlackKnife’s search for a missing woman had lead him to nothing but dead ends.  As an attorney, Alexander would investigate every avenue, even if it might implicate his people, the Susquehannock tribe.  Alexander decides to follow up with the missing blonde’s cousin as a last resort and his entire world changes in the blink of an eye.

Cassandra Stone is a creative beauty who refuses to accept the notion that her cousin could be dead.  Even though the world might think her cousin had lost touch with reality, Cassie thought anything was possible.  If her cousin had traveled to the past, Cassie was determined to find out what happened to her.  Alexander’s disbelief wasn’t going to stop Cassie from following her cousin into the past to make sure she was okay. 

After waking up in the seventeenth century, Cassie is overjoyed to meet her cousin.  Her joy quickly turns to fear when she realizes that Alexander followed her and is in serious trouble.  In the present day, Cassie and Alexander didn’t get a chance to explore their attraction, because of Alexander.  Being in the past together gave them the perfect opportunity to be together, if they could survive long enough to return home. 

Alexander’s fate brings him face to face with his idol.  He gets to spend time with his mentor, learning the old ways and also share his modern knowledge.  Before coming to the past, Alexander questioned his ability to change things for the tribe and if he was the right man for the job.  He’d even convinced himself why a relationship with Cassie was off limits. 

Cassie comes to the conclusion that fate didn’t want her to be with Alexander.   At first she thought the trip to the past was about her.  However, after seeing all the positive changes Alexander makes, Cassie changes her mind.  As much as it hurt, Cassie puts aside her feelings and leaves Alexander, which almost turns out to be a fatal disaster.  Alexander intervenes just in time and the couple gets the ending they deserve. 

Dream Weaver unites a couple who mean a lot to the lives of those around them.  Alexander has obligations to his people, and he’s not certain if he’s strong enough to endure everything.  What he does know is that he wants Cassie and she wants him.  Alexander had doubts, but I never doubted for a minute.  I always saw the strength in him and so did everyone around him.   I like Cassie’s character because she is so quirky.  She certainly knows how to improvise and that quality saved her numerous times.  The story has a lot going on, but I know readers will enjoy the twist and turns the author makes.  Every character left me with a lasting impression and readers will agree.

Scent of Salvation

Title: Scent of Salvation

Author: Annie Nicholas

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61921-748-5

Genre: {M/F} Paranormal Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Release Date: 07-30-13

When the military tries to take over her research, Dr. Susan Barlow attempts to stop them. She ends up stranded in another dimension. It’s similar to Earth, but without any of the advantages of civilization we take for granted. The biggest shock is the world is filled with all manner of nasty paranormal creatures and there’s not one single human.

Susan’s found by Sorin, the alpha of his pack, and he needs helping fighting the illness killing his people. He takes Susan falling through a blue light in the sky as a sign from the Goddess. He’s convinced she can save his pack but there are others who want her, too. Sorin must fight to keep her at his side but Susan isn’t certain how she can survive on a world alone—as the only human.

Scent of Salvation is the first release in Annie Nicholas’s new paranormal series, Chronicles of Eorthe.

Well, I’m happy to report I’ve found a new author with a great creative flair. She’s taken what could have been a typical werewolf/vampire story and instead turned it on its ear by using an alternate dimension premise. It’s a nice change from what you usually see in the genre and I really enjoyed it. The way she mixed 2lst century scientist Susan into Sorin’s dimension is very well done. Their worlds are very different on the surface but as you’ll see as the story progresses, there’s a common thread with ‘old’ Earth. It’s a well thought-out way to tie the two Earth’s together and I appreciated the author’s use of history to do it. 

But that’s not the only reason I enjoyed this unique story. It’s filled with vivid imagery, has fully developed personalities in Susan and Sorin, there’s plenty of interesting secondary characters and it has a fast pace from start to finish. It’s pretty serious most of the time but it still manages to have a few funny moments that made me smile. I’m anxious to see what happens in the next one. Watch for it.

A Little Bite of Magic

Title: A Little Bite of Magic

Author: M.J. O'Shea

Publisher: Loose Id

Publisher URL: www.loose-id.com

ISBN: 978-1-62300-289-3

Genre: {M/M} Fantasy

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Born a witch, Frankie Vallerand has chosen the non-magical career of a chef. Frankie’s skills in the kitchen have gained a number of returning customers. Even the snarky food critic, Addison Allbright, is impressed with the food, as well as with the chef.

A Little Bite of Magic is an introduction to romance story with an insipid plot as well as a somewhat deficient backdrop.  The setting is San Francisco. The storyline is filled with various tempting daily menus. The unrealistic characters are more reminiscent of inquisitive teenagers rather than mature men. Everything involving Frankie’s magic is an accident, including his relationship with Addison.

Addison’s personality is monotonous. Descriptions of what should have been significant events such as discovering Addison’s engagement and interferences from their mothers were not emotionally convincing. The only emotional factor exhibited throughout the story was a small portion of amusement.

Although Frankie and Addison did not engage my interest completely, I did enjoy the list of cuisine options mentioned, along with the tidbits of humor.