The Leopard Who Changed His Spots

Title: The Leopard Who Changed His Spots

Author: Stephani Hecht

Publisher: eXtasy Books

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-77111-618-3

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Everyone knows that Leopards are crazy.  For Toby that’s just one more reason why he can’t have a normal life.  For some reason, Hale hasn’t gotten the message and he can’t seem to stop watching the assassin every chance he gets.  When Toby finally acknowledges him, neither man’s lives will be the same.

I was so glad to see that The Leopard Who Changed His Spots was going to be the next release in the Wayne County Wolves series.  Ever since finding out that Toby was Shane’s younger brother, I have being waiting to see what would happen.  While nowhere near as crazy as Shane, Toby is definitely the older assassin’s brother.  I loved watching these two get to know each other and their first meeting goes just as fans would expect.  The snarkiness that these two bring out in each other will have readers laughing and wait until you get to the bar scene.  I felt so bad for the poor mouse shifter. 

But this is not the story of two brothers; instead it is the tale of an assassin and a young beagle shifter.  Hale is an innocent in many ways, but he is also the perfect match for the jaded assassin.  I liked the connection between Hale and Toby.  Although it took some time for the two to come together, each man was aware of the other.  It is only after Hale sees Toby in need of some attention that they go from strangers to something much more.   These two are hot and seeing Hale step up to defend Toby to his friends was wonderful.   

There is some action in this story, especially when the assassins go up against spider assassin, Razor.  These scenes are well done.  The action comes across strongly, and I loved the way the author makes them seem so realistic.  Their battle with Razor also sets up the next story in this series. 

Fans of this author are sure to love this newest story and The Leopard Who Changed His Spots will sure to become a fan favorite. 

Changeless

Title: Changeless

Author: Cherie Noel

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02013-0106

Genre:  {M/M} Interracial

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs 

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Sean Taliaferro Allen and Calvin Abelin shared a common bond, not just in friendship but also in life’s events. Nevertheless, through all the changes they endured, their special connection remained strong.

Changeless is part of the Mixed Tape Series Volume 4. The plot illustrates the trust and support of true friendship as well as the different cultural perceptions. The characters are credible. Sean is burdened with the double-edged sword of being black and gay. Sean’s race is not acceptable by some in the predominately white small town. Sean’s sexually is not acceptable by the general black culture, especially by his one remaining family member. Calvin’s sexually is accepted by his family, particularly his younger brother. Life changing events separate Sean and Calvin for years, yet they never completely lost touch with each other.      

Cherie Noel has created a fascinating as well as very enjoyable saga exemplifying realistic social predicaments that are still a crisis in the world today. 

Can't Let Go

Title: Can't Let Go

Author: CR Guiliano

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02013-0105

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Living together is not enough for Kanson Durby. Tired of being Ty Hoffman’s dirty little secret, Kanson decides it’s time to move on.

Can't Let Go is part of the Mixed Tape Series Volume 4. The plot highlights rejection, the emotional rollercoaster of a relationship and the courage needed to go after what your heart truly desires.  Kanson was rejected by his homophobic parents; he was not even allowed to see his siblings. Kanson survived his parent’s rebuff, but dreaded Ty’s reaction to his news. Ty also dealt with parental rejection but for a different reason. Ty was pleased when he discovered Kanson was gay, yet Ty was not brave enough to come out of the closet himself without being forced. 

CR Guiliano has created an emotional as well as an enjoyably heartrending short story.    

Nothing's Going...

Title: Nothing's Going...

Author: Pelaam

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02013-0104

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Words have the power to hurt or to heal. Cam had already experience the hurt with a former lover. But with Kent’s caring words, along with his affectionate physical contact, Cam could feel the healing effects of true love.

Nothing's Going to Change My Love For You is part of the Mixed Tape Series Volume 4. The plot exhibits two average working men who meet through a mutual friend. Kent is a romantic; everything he does is to show Cam how much he is loved. Cam is slowly beginning to cast off his fears of a past relationship. Living together, Kent and Cam’s relationship has developed into a wonderful reflection of trust as well as consideration for each other which is fully expressed during their intimate interludes. 

Pelaam has created a superb short story that I thoroughly enjoyed.   

Running Up That Hill

Title: Running Up That Hill

Author: Barry Brennessel

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02013-0102

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Discovering a mutual attraction with co-worker Adam Fleuren, Jeremy Saura is encouraged by the lyrics of a song to demonstrate that his sexuality is only a part of who he is as a person.

Running Up That Hill is part of the Mixed Tape Series Volume 4. The plot focuses more on the song rather than the characters. The characters are  somewhat sedate. Both Jeremy and Adam hide their sexuality from their families, as well as their co-workers, which is understandable given the attitudes of some people. However, there is very little else known regarding the personalities of the characters illustrated.  Running Up That Hill did exhibit the incentive music can generate in the human spirit.   

Barry Brennessel has created an interesting short story devoid of convincing emotional components, yet still enjoyable.       

Subtle Innuendos

Title: Subtle Innuendos

Author: Z. Allora

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02013-0107

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Budding musicians Matt Evan and Chad Devon discovered early that the road to success is filled with many pitfalls. Sex, drugs and greedy managers were all too accessible to the young talented naive Matt and Chad. 

Subtle Innuendos is part of the Mixed Tape Series Volume 4. The poignant plot highlights the emotional cost of fame. The characters are appealing, as well as believable. It was their enthusiastic interest in music that first attracted Matt and Chad to each other. Matt and Chad’s friendship evolved into a mutual love that lasted a lifetime even though they spent years apart. Music, along with fond memories, re-ignited their love that had refused to die.  

Z. Allora has created an incredibly moving short story that I enjoyed immensely. 

True Colors

Title: True Colors

Author: Jambrea Jo Jones

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02013-0101

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Psychologist Chad Simpson is a caregiver to everyone but himself. Chad has lived so deep in the closet, it takes the fear of losing his best friend and secret love Jared Knight to drag Chad into accepting his own sexuality.

True Colors is part of Mixed Tape Series Volume 4. The plot illustrates two compassionate men who are secretly in love with each other.  Chad is a thirty year old coward, he spends every waking moment stressing over pleasing everyone, clients, co-workers, parents as well as society in general. Just the thought of someone discovering he is gay sends Chad into an anxiety attack. Openly gay, Jared has waited years for Chad to vacate his self-imposed prison. Jared is more than ready to move from friendship to lovers if he can find a way to break down the wall surrounding Chad. 

Jambrea Jo Jones has created an exceptionally enjoyable short story with fascinating characters. Chad is wonderfully exasperating and Jared is a long-suffering kindhearted true friend. 

Spring Leaves

Title: Spring Leaves

Authors:  A.J. Llewellyn and D.J. Manly

Publisher: Silver Publishing

Publisher URL: spsilverpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 9781614959588

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Western Series

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

When it’s rumored the remains of a missing woman might be buried near the bridge made famous by Bonnie and Clyde, Jubilee, Nicholas and Sean join several FBI agents on the search. The hunt for her remains isn’t what they think. When bones are found, it leads to a revelation none of them expects.

Jubilee and Kiernan are still having trouble with their adoption of Juan. Nothing they do matters—and actually things only keep getting worse.  Then suddenly Kiernan and Nicholas are sent off to Canada to join in an investigation with the RCMP, leaving heartsick loved ones behind. Jubilee has to continue his attempts to adopt his son without Kiernan, hoping his family will one day be complete. But will it?

Springs Leaves is the newest release in the Orgasmic Texas Dawn series. Due to the ongoing storyline and recurring characters, I recommend the books be read in order.

I like this installment but it has parts I found sad. The changes going on in the lives of Jubilee and Kiernan regarding Juan’s stalled adoption are heart-wrenching. It’s a desperate situation no parent should be placed in and it’s handled with care.

The authors continue to juggle all the characters well, juggling their lives and the various plot threads, weaving them all together into a cohesive whole. I enjoyed seeing a little of Nigel, and that Trace got to play a more prominent role—action and romance wise. And then there’s Marco. He’s maturing nicely and I hope to see him become a focus later in the series. 

As expected there’s action and danger in the Marshall’s investigations but for me they were resolved a little quickly to be believable. Look for Turmoil coming next.

Meteor Strike

Title: Meteor Strike

Author: Silvia Violet

Publisher: Loose Id

Publisher URL: www.loose-id.com

ISBN: 978-1-62300-385-2

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Sequel

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Astro-physicist Matthew Dansk refuses to compromise his dating rules even if it means suffering a bruised heart. It seems Matthew’s dream of an open relationship with Alan Miller is not in the stars. On the other hand, things have a way of changing, especially when it involves the heart.  

Meteor Strike is a truly heartwarming romance with engaging characters. Matthew’s moral principles illustrates he is fully aware of who he is, an openly gay man. Fortunately, Matthew is so dedicated to his career that he has little time to dwell on his loneliness. Matthew’s only minor flaw is that he envies his contemporaries who are happily in a long term relationship. Alan has a take-charge personality, yet he hides his sexually. Before meeting Matthew, Alan would travel to gay bars far away from his work to indulge in sexual flings. Working closely with Matthew for six months changed Alan’s point of view. When Matthew returned home at the end of the project, Alan realized he no longer desired hiding in the closet or having random sex with strangers. The convention was the opportunity Alan needed to seduce Matthew into a real relationship with him. 

Silvia Violet has created a very touching as well as exceptionally enjoyable sequel to Astronomical.          

Changing Owen’s Mind

Title: Changing Owen’s Mind

Author: Charlie Richards

Publisher: eXtasy Books

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-77111-619-0

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal Series

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Xavier Agueda has hoped to find his soul mate for over four hundred years and when he meets Detective Owen Hanson, it looks like his dream has come true. The problem—Owen’s deeply in the closet. Xavier’s coven leader is happy to help him and gets a mutual friend to schedule a BBQ so the two men can meet again. Can Xavier convince the closeted cop to take chance and act on their mutual attraction? And what’ll happen when Owen learns Xavier’s a vampire?

Changing Owen’s Mind is the latest book in Charlie Richards’ series, A Paranormal’s Love. Reading the books in order would be best, but at least read A Bite of Fulfillment first.

I like Xavier and Owen and meeting them in the previous release helps because this story is short at about 62 story pages. It’s actually amazing how well developed their personalities are considering the length. Having them meet at a BBQ is a nice touch and it’s a good opportunity to include characters met previously. 

The overall pacing is smooth, the imagery vivid and there’s just enough danger and conflict to keep it interesting. My niggle is Owen’s quick acceptance of Xavier and their mating after his initial reluctance. Even so, I enjoyed the story and look forward to the next one. Could it possibly be Owen’s son, Nate? 

A Bite of Fulfillment

Title: A Bite of Fulfillment

Author: Charlie Richards

Publisher: eXtasy Books

Publisher URL: www.eXtasybooks.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-77111-607-7

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal Series

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Being patient is difficult for vampire leader Adalric Bachmeier. That’s particularly true when it comes to wooing his reluctant beloved, Seth Goodwin, who has only recently learned of the paranormal world.  When an attack occurs at the coven house, Adalric doesn’t have any choice but to return home, but he refuses to leave Seth behind.

Learning of paranormal creatures is frightening for Seth and being the focus of a vampire’s attention even more so. He’s been rude to Adalric, so Seth can’t figure out why he’s hanging around. When Seth learns he must accompany Adalric home and needs a bite to keep other vampires away, he hesitantly agrees. But Adalric’s home isn’t what Seth expects, and the bombshell of their true relationship is shocking. Can Seth accept his place in the vampire world or will his fear end it before it even begins?

A Bite of Fulfillment is the second release in Charlie Richards’ series, A Paranormal’s Love.  It takes up shortly after the first book ends, so the books should be read in order.

Initially, Seth is frustrating because of his refusal of accept that his life has changed forever.  He’s rude to Adalric—annoyingly so—and while I understand his reaction, it continued longer than expected. These two guys are pretty funny at times and their communication skills—well, in the beginning—they need work. Despite how Seth starts out, I like him. I like Adalric too, and considering the length of this release, their personalities are pretty well developed.   

Once they arrive at Adalric’s coven house and Seth realizes the truth of their relationship, the pace of the story picks up. Here we get to meet some interesting new individuals who will play roles important here and later—so pay attention. My big niggle with Seth is how rapidly his attitude toward Adalric changes. I know—it’s the whole mate bond thing—but it’s still a bit quick for me.  Still, I like these two as a couple and once they get together, their relationship is believable. And I can’t forget the villains in this piece—adding lots of action and danger.  Look for Changing Owen's Mind next.

Re/Paired

Title:  Re/Paired

Author:  Michele Zurlo

Publisher:  Loose Id

Publisher URL:  www.loose-id.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-62300-194-0

Genre:   {M/F}, BDSM, Contemporary, Sequel

Rating:  5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Katrina decides she isn’t going to just settle for being friends with Keith anymore.  She also wants to find a Dom to train her.  Keith fits the bill for Katrina, in more ways than one.

Re/Paired is the sequel to Re/Bound and picks soon after Re/Bound ends.  This time the main story is about Katrina and Keith and there is a lot of suspense, as well as some good BDSM scenes.  One thing I really liked about this book is that the author chose to delve a little bit more into how negotiations about limits within a relationship are done.  I also liked that Ms. Zurlo showed that a submissive isn’t necessarily a doormat, as some people think. 

Katrina was not shy about letting Keith know when she thought he went too far and also called him on his attitude. The two have been friends ever since Katrina’s brother brought him home to meet his family.  This book is mostly about their evolving relationship, which can be very intense as they have some great chemistry. 

As the story progresses, there are lots of emotional highs and lows, especially when Katrina finds out she has a stalker.  I was a little surprised about who the stalker was, though it became clear toward the end of book it was also related to what happened in Re/Bound.

There were a couple of secondary characters that I would like to see have their own story.  I did have to laugh at the reaction that both agents had when Katrina showed up at a munch and their reaction to her request. I also loved the flogging practice at the women’s night in. 

To get the most out of this story, readers should read Re/Bound before reading Re/Paired, even though this could be read by itself.

Rogue of the Highlands

Title: Rogue of the Highlands

Author:  Cynthia Breeding

Publisher:  Samhain Publishing

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

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-61921-047-9

Genre:  {M/F} Historical

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

As a widowed marchioness Jillian Alton has very few options to become financially independent.  There would be no place for her, once Jillian’s step-son returned home to take control of the family holdings.  After enduring a difficult marriage, Jillian vowed that no man would ever own her again.  When an offer from the prince is presented to her, Jillian takes on the job eagerly.  Polishing a newly titled Scotsman should be a simple task.

The last thing Ian MacLeod wanted was to be an earl and prance about in English attire all day.  He didn’t think there was anything wrong with his manners.  But, the perks that came with his new title was what his clan needed, so he had no choice.  As soon as possible, Ian planned to return home to Scotland. 

Ian was definitely drawn to his new teacher, who looked like a woodland nymph.  Even though she seemed a bit too serious at times, Ian intended to be the man to get Jillian to break a few rules.  Jillian was determined not to give in to Ian’s flirting, yet she couldn’t stop the butterflies she felt each time he looked at her. 

The more time they spent together, Ian and Jillian begin wondering about their future.  Ian knows he wants Jillian as his wife, but Jillian refuses his offer, even though it breaks her heart.  As Jillian’s step-son becomes an unexpected problem, things become hazardous. 

Rogue of the Highlands is the first book in the Rogue series and will refresh your memory on how scrumptious men in kilts are.  Ian is a man of great honor and he has strong feelings about what is right.  He knows the proper way to treat a woman, even though his dinner etiquette might be lacking.  His affection for Jillian and her sister was touching and I was cheering for Ian to get the girl the second he appeared.  Jillian let her guard down with him even when she didn’t mean to.  There were times my heart bleed for some of the things Jillian endured.  I’m glad she was a quick thinker and that Jillian didn’t let her past kill her chance for happiness.  She deserved so much and I felt Ian was the only man who could give it to her.  Readers will embrace both characters like old friends and enjoy this read as much as I did. 

Healing Minds

Title: Healing Minds

Author: M.D. Grimm

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN: 978-1-62380-777-1

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Wolf shifter Xavier is slowly regaining his memory, yet the sinister voice compelling him to kill is still inside his head. After listening to his jailer’s voice for six months, Xavier begins to realize that agent aide, Josh McPhee, is the only one who can silence the hellish voice controlling his mind.

Healing Minds is the fifth book in The Shifters series. The plot is well paced. The characters are engaging.  A charismatic madman has amassed a large following of weak-minded humans. The leader of the group known as the Knights has directed his disciples to destroy all shifters. However, Xavier’s life was spared after an experiment appeared to be successful. Xavier would kill on command. Xavier suffers an abundance of remorse for the past murders he committed, though he was not a killer before being captured by the hate group. Josh helped Xavier rediscover his humanity. As the jailer and captive relationship between Josh and Xavier evolves into a loving bond, Josh is thrown into an emotional turmoil. Josh must choose the Agency or Xavier, he cannot have both. 

M.D. Grimm has created another exciting as well as especially enjoyable episode. Healing Minds has a profusion of intense action, a few heartwarming revelations along with brief intimate moments.  

Redneck Romeo

Title: Redneck Romeo

Author: Lorelei James

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61921-871-0

Genre: {M/F} Contemporary Western Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Three years ago Dalton McKay couldn’t go through with his wedding because he was in love with his fiancé’s best friend, Rory.  So after getting thrashed by some of Addie’s family and co-workers, he left town and the state. Dalton didn’t plan to return home but the sudden illness of his estranged father changes that. Being back in Sundance gives him the chance to mend his relationship with his brothers and show Rory how much he’s changed.

Rory’s been crazy about Dalton since they were kids but she has trouble believing he’s not the same unreliable guy who left town. So when Dalton says he’ll prove to her he’s different, Rory’s agrees to give him a chance because really…who can withstand the sizzling chemistry of a McKay man. The question is whether Dalton can convince Rory that he’s worth the risk and that they belong together…forever.

Redneck Romeo is the newest release in the Rough Riders series by Lorelei James. While reading all the books would be best, I recommend you at least read the last few to get acquainted with the most recent storylines.

I love this family and with Redneck Romeo, Ms. James tackles the last McKay left unmarried. It was guaranteed to be just as exciting as the others and I wasn’t wrong. There’s always something unexpected happening with this wild and crazy bunch and Dalton, with the horrific revelations he drops on his family, is no exception. It brings out emotions that aren’t just Dalton’s but his brothers and other family members, once they learn the truth. Ms. James handles it well, integrating the various individuals, dealing with their feelings and tears without allowing it to become maudlin.

Here we get to see a side of Dalton I never expected and I like him more than ever. There’s good personality development and visual imagery and I liked the slow build up of his and Rory’s relationship. He has to work on convincing her they should be together and once he did—watch out—because these two are scorching hot. Another strong point for me is how Ms. James successfully brings in so many of Dalton’s family—people we’ve met before. I love getting to see what going on in their lives. She juggles all of this and comes up with a highly entertaining book that I hope you’ll enjoy.

A Little Bit More

Title:  A Little Bit More

Author:  Amanda Vyne

Publisher:   Loose Id, LLC

Publisher URL:  www.loose-id.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-62300-423-1

Genre:  {M/F}, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, Series

Rating:  4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Kel is sure that Gabe is ashamed of her and doesn’t want a child with her.  Gabe knows Kel is his heart.

The latest story in the Arcane Crossbreeds series, A Little Bit More, picks up the story of Gabe and Kel about a year after the first book, More Than Blood, ends.  Even though they both love each other and have bonded, there are some misperceptions that neither really tried to talk out. 

While Kel is a strong woman, she is very insecure within her own society because of the way she was raised, due to her being a crossbreed.  The fact that Gabe is a purebred from one of the major houses doesn’t help. 

I like this fast paced short story as it also gives the reader a glimpse of possible future stories as the various Arcane societies try to learn to live in the modern world.  I am looking forward to reading more about the various societies, especially the Drachon.

Another Secret

Title: Another Secret

Author: Stevie Woods 

Publisher: Amber Allure

Publisher URL: www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure

ISBN: 978-1-61124-443-4

Genre: {M/M} Werewolves

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Apprehensive his secret will sever his friendship with his best friend, Drew Horton, Leland realizes that his guilty secret is nothing compared to finding out Drew is a werewolf.

Another Secret is an intriguing romantic mystery. The well written plot is set in a small English town bordering a forest. The characters are creditable. Leland and Drew have been best friends since childhood. Having discovered they were both gay with similar personalities as well as interest, Leland and Drew shared a strong friendship bond that evolved into an unprofessed love over the years.  They share most things in their lives with each other, except admitting the passion each man feels for the other is more than friendship. Nevertheless, Leland’s feelings of guilt and Drew’s fear of losing control of his wolf side forces them to keep secrets.

Stevie Woods has created an impressive short story blending a sensual budding romance with elements of dangerous action. I greatly enjoyed Another Secret.

Politician Won

Title: Politician Won

Author: Amber Kell

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-78184-370-3

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal Series

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Zander is frustrated. He and his Thresl have been together for two years and the beast has thus far refused to change out of his cat form. Without a true mating, Zander’s afraid his father will force them apart upon returning home from the royal wedding they’re attending. When he suddenly becomes ill, his Thresl shifts to protect him. 

As part of the newly mated pair, Zander finds himself helping the Thresl king investigate rumors of Thresls being kidnapped, sold and smuggled off-planet. Just when he and his Thresl, Leo, find evidence to help their case, Zander is drugged and Leo is kidnapped. Can Zander find a way to get his mate back before it’s too late?

Politician Won is the newest release in The Thresl Chronicles by Amber Kell. Because of the ongoing storyline, the books need to be read in order.   

The premise for this series keeps getting more interesting as the creative world building continues and I’m happy some of the questions left unanswered from the previous book are addressed here. By the end of Prince Claimed, I was expecting Saint to be the main focus of this story but I wasn’t disappointed to get Zander’s story instead. He’s a good guy with an interesting personality. I liked that the bond to his Thresl, Leo, has an unexpected beginning.  These two make a good match and the development of them as a couple works well. And the physical side of their mating—steamy.

There’s a lot going on in this release that doesn’t have anything to do with Zander or Leo’s mating. That means it’s a juggle to keep everything moving forward and integrated but Ms. Kell handles it well. It leaves the story pretty evenly balanced between the romance and other storylines. I enjoyed the investigation part of the plot, despite being rather short but Leo’s action scenes are well done. With the ongoing story arc, expect a few dangling threads to be handled in the next release and even beyond. From the ending, I’m expecting Saint to be the focus next time. Really. 

Memories of Paradise

Title:  Memories of Paradise

Author:  Tianna Xander

Publisher:  eXtasy Books

Publisher URL:  www.extasybooks.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-77111-529-2

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

Rating:  4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Riana is running after getting the feeling that she and her daughter, Holly, have been found again.  The plane that is supposed to take them to Washington crashes and they are saved by Gunter and Clay, who are Riana’s mates.

The latest installment of the Paradise series, Memories of Paradise, brings to a close one major thread of this series and also happens to be my favorite so far.  I am glad this particular issue is closed but there are still a few continuing and some new ones still.  There was also a little more information about some of the former Army Rangers that settled in Paradise that will be sure to appear in the future.

This story is different than others as Riana has a teenage daughter who was conceived during the times before the rightful alpha regained his position and brought back the old customs.  This story has lots of humor because Holly is a typical teenager in many ways.  I laughed at some of their interaction as I can relate.  I loved the way the two men just automatically assumed Holly would be there once Riana agreed to a permanent relationship. 

Riana, Gunter and Clay have a lot of chemistry between them and the scenes between the three are hot.  Riana does have a lot of trust issues with men, so her confusion about her attraction and her actions around them was understandable.  

Quite a few characters from the other stories in this series show up toward the end, which also leads to a pleasant surprise for Riana.  While readers don’t need to read the series in order, I suggest reading A Stranger In Paradise, Looking for Paradise, and Healing in Paradise before Memories in Paradise, as they have a direct bearing on this particular story.

Wilde City Press Summer sale promo

Wilde City Press is having a summer/July 4th sale. The 25% coupon code is valid from July 4th-7th on all books 

Also feel free to join Wilde City Press authors on the new Wilde City Press blog

http://www.wildecity.com/blog/interviews/wilde-city-press-celebrates-summer-with-fun-author-memories-and-a-sale/#.UdSD4G34JuA

Beauty Bites

Title: Beauty Bites

Author: Mary Hughes

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61921-581-8

Genre: {M/F} Paranormal Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Release Date: 08-27-13

Meiers Corners needs top-notch advertising to turn it from a quaint little town into a money-making tourist destination before it goes bankrupt. They pick Minneapolis advertising guru Ric Holiday, who refuses them outright. What they don’t know is that Meiers Corners is too close to Chicago and the vampire who turned him as a boy.

A vampire is what they need. Ric’s good at his job and will understand the needs of their hidden vampire community, so to catch Ric’s interest; they send beautiful Dr. Synnove Byornsson to crash his cocktail party. Dressed in a killer outfit, Synnove’s determined to win Ric over, but things don’t go as planned. She ends up in competition with a deadly female vampire who wants to turn Meiers Corners into a mid-west version of Las Vegas.

Beauty Bites is the newest release in the Biting Love series by Mary Hughes. There’s some time between books but because of the recurring characters the books should be read in order.

I like this book but then all the releases in this series are fun, quirky and entertaining and Beauty Bites isn’t any different. The story is fast paced, it has great characters with good personality development, the details are vivid and there are plenty of twists and turns to hold your interest. I mean there’s just something so appealing about the people from this little town that every time a new book comes out I have to read it. This time, it’s Ric and Synnove and their bantering dialogue and sizzling sexual tension I can’t get enough of. 

But that’s not all. Not only do we have a chance to get reacquainted with some of the couples we’ve met before, but the author has created a couple of intriguing new individuals as the villains. These two add lots of color, trouble and danger and I hope you find them as interesting as I did. I don’t know what comes next in this well written series but I can’t wait to find out.

To Bite A Bear

Title: To Bite A Bear

Author: Amber Kell

Publisher: Extasy Books

Publisher URL: www.extasybooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-77111-598-8

Genre: M/M Paranormal Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Bear shifter Harris Bender suspects his attraction to vampire leader Rohan is more than a mere passing fancy. Upon first sight, Rohan knew Harris was his blood bonded. However, the budding romance is interrupted when territorial greed, as well as betrayal, decides to surface in the vampire community yet again.

To Bite A Bear is the fourth book in the Banded Brothers series. Harris is a member of Carey Gale’s adoptive family. Of the four brothers, only Carey is human, the other three are shifters. Aside from playing in a band together, each brother has his own separate career; Harris is an artist, who also loves cooking for his family. Before meeting Rohan, Harris’s only passion was his painting. But, discovering Rohan is his mate, Harris has a difficult time controlling his bear’s protective nature side. Rohan is also protective plus very possessive regarding Harris. 

Amber Kell has created another exciting as well as enjoyable romantic action episode to this series.  The series is best read in sequence starting with the first book To Have a Human.

Catch My Breath

Title: Catch My Breath

Author: M.J. O’Shea

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62380-871-6

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Blue Horizon Records is holding open auditions with the hopes of finding their next new star.  Unfortunately, they are unable to find just one great star and instead settle for four new voices, hoping that by grouping them together they will have the next big boy band instead.  But something is still missing, that is until the record company brings in Elliot.

I loved Ms. O’Shea’s newest release, Catch My Breath.  This is a great story that shows the readers the many sides of the music world.  Danny and Elliot, along with three other young men, are brought together by Blue Horizon Records to be the next big boy band.  Although the five men hit it off from the start and soon become the best of friends, it is Danny and Elliot that become the closest.  When the five men are placed in a reality show with a bunch of other young musicians, that closeness becomes even tighter.  With the way Danny and Elliot were with each other, I was surprised that it took the two so long to realize what they were really feeling.  I also could not believe that the other musicians in the house did not realize what was going on.  Because the young men are only eighteen, the author does not go into graphic detail once their relationship moves from friendship into something more, yet that does not keep the intensity they are feeling from coming through. 

There are a lot of secondary characters, not all of whom are likeable.  I could not believe the music industry people in this story.  The way they torment Danny and Elliot made me crazy.  While I thought some of the situations the young men found themselves in could be put down to their age, the way they were manipulated was just over the top.  I did love the rest of Danny’s and Elliot’s band members though.  The way the three older men stuck by the young lovers was great and I wondered if we would be seeing any of them in future stories. 

Catch My Breath is a well written story that grabbed my attention from the beginning.  I could not wait to see how the author planned on working things out for the men, and found myself wanting to skip ahead just to see how the story ended, but I did not want to miss anything by doing so.  I am sure fans of this author will love her new story, and those who have not yet given this author a try, should start with this book.

Unearthed Treasure

Title:  Unearthed Treasure

Author:  Elizabeth Lapthorne

Publisher:  Total E Bound

Publisher URL:  www.total-e-bound.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-78184-300-0

Genre:   {M/F}, Action, Mystery, Series

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

David and Chelsea think their cover might be blown, but follow through with their assignment to find the ringleader of the smuggling operation.  After working together for so long, they finally admit they love each other. 

The sixth book in The Agency series, Unearthed Treasure, picks up during the attack on the National Gallery of London from the previous book.  Several things happen that could be very hazardous to both David and Chelsea.  Some of the risks involved in undercover operations are explored in detail, and some of the personality characteristics needed are showcased.

I liked the chemistry and communication the two had together.  I did have to laugh at some of the give and take they had regarding watching each other’s back, even though both wanted to protect the other.  I also liked the sentiment that David stated about his feelings for Chelsea that is the title of this book.

The secondary characters were realistic.  I was surprised at who the ringleader was and how it was revealed.  The author did a good job explaining why things happened as well.  I really liked the scene where David and Chelsea escape after things get screwed up because of some of the crew. 

I’m glad the subplot from Intimate Knowledge was followed through with resolution in Unearthed Treasure.  David gave a very good explanation about why he let Jennifer live and neatly sidestepped the trap laid for him because of it.  While not all the stories in this series need to be read in order, these two need to be read in order to understand some of the references that are a big part of this story.

The Warlock's Secret

Title: The Warlock's Secret

Author: RJ Scott

Publisher: Extasy Books

Publisher URL: www.extasybooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-77111-589-6

Genre: M/M Paranormal Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Vampire Joseph and his underground followers are moving closer to finding the evil perpetrator of destruction plaguing Glitnir. However, before Joseph and his twin Micah can incarcerate the rogue council member, Joseph is captured and nearly killed. Determined to save the wounded vampire, Elf prince Phin becomes Joseph’s deliverance. 

The Warlock's Secret is the third book in the Supernatural Bounty Hunters series. Centuries ago, the Glitnir council created a journal to track the actions of the vampires as well as expelling magical beings. For this reason, Joseph hides his magical powers. An ambitious Warlock had tainted the magic, employing his concealed enchantment for pure evil. The Vampire Contract narrates the history of the Vampire royalty, along with their contribution in creating an impartial governing council. The underground movement lead by Joseph is attempting to return Glitnir to the original peace and justice for all inhabitants. Joseph and Phin have loved each other for years. However, because of the laws preventing two supernaturals with magic from mating, Joseph and Phin never shared the intimacy they both desired. There were also secrets that could mean death to some of their family if ever exposed. 

RJ Scott has created another amazing installment to this incredibly enjoyable series, which is best read in sequence.