By the Numbers

Title: By the Numbers

Author: Nicole Dennis

Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing

Publisher URL: www.totallybound.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-78430-031-9

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

The renovation and repair plans for the Southern Charm have been approved and contractor Sullivan ‘Sully’ Tarleton is ready to start work, giving the local landmark a second chance at life. Since he’s already going into town, when Sully learns his friends need their accountant picked up at the airport he volunteers. He just doesn’t know how one new person will impact his life.

Chandler Braddock suffers from severe OCD and doesn’t like being in unfamiliar surroundings, but his best friend Sam need his help, so he heads to the Southern Charm, knowing how difficult it will be. Numbers and organization make Chandler feel calm. The mess at the Charm does not. The biggest surprise… his attraction to the sexy carpenter who turns his ordered life upside down but who makes him feel safe while letting him be himself. Without judging. Can they make a life together? Will it work?

By the Numbers is the second release in the Southern Charm series by Nicole Dennis. This new book follows shortly after the first left off, so you need to read them in order.

I like Chandler. He’s a unique guy and not one you’d usually expect to find as a main love interest in a romance…not with his severe OCD. That’s one of things that made him so appealing. He’s real, with all the problems a person with this condition would have. I appreciate all the details of OCD the author wove into the plot, and the history of what was behind it and how it affected Chandler’s life is good background. There are a few inconsistencies between his disorder and how he acted. For example--A guy using lots of hand sanitizer isn’t going to kiss a stranger, even on the cheek, on first meeting.

I liked Sully when he was introduced in the first book. He’s a friendly guy, responsible, hard-working and caring. And the t-shirts with the crazy sayings made me chuckle. They might have been a little unrealistic for a businessman but in the book…they worked for me. I also love how he let Chandler be himself…and helped him deal with the OCD and never belittled him. The author did a nice job with his personality and developing his relationship with Chandler. 

The descriptions of what was happening at the Charm are vivid, all of the secondary characters are nicely woven into the story line, the plot flows evenly and there’s just a hint of what I expect to be a romance between Reece and Mal in an upcoming book. My biggest complaint—the still dangling threads of the poisoning and the missing money. 

Rehabilitating his Dingo

Title: Rehabilitating his Dingo

Author: Charlie Richards

Publisher: eXtasy Books

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-77111-944-3 

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

When Yates and the others showed up at the dingo compound, they did not expect the conditions they found.  After battling the alpha and his inner circle, Yates and the others set out to make things right, starting with the humans the former alpha and his men used as slaves.  What Yates isn’t expecting is that one of the hostages is a shifter half-breed, who just happens to be Yates’ mate. 

Rehabilitating his Dingo, the latest book in the Wolves of Stone Ridge series, picks up where Love on an Owl’s Wing left off, giving readers the chance to see what is going on with the dingo pack.   Readers should know however, that this story covers some dark subjects and therefore may be difficult for some readers.   

While I found both main characters to be well-written, for me, it was Aryen that really shined.  This is a young man that has only known abuse.  When he is finally free, he is unsure how to behave or who to trust.  The author did a great job bringing this character and all his insecurities across in a realistic way. I could not help feeling for this young man and hoping that he would be able to become whole again.

Because of the mating pull, Aryen finds himself drawn to Yates.  As the two men work towards getting to know each other, Aryen’s actions show just how unsure he is.  Yates sees this right away of course, and the author uses this time to bring out the wolf shifter’s gentle side as he goes about making things easier for Aryen. 

Rehabilitating his Dingo brings many former characters back to fill the role of secondary characters.  These men help both Aryen and Yates find their way as they struggle through their new relationship.  New characters are also introduced and I am curious to see what the author plans for Paolo, who readers have met before, in his rat form. 

While it is not necessary to read all the books in this series in order, I would recommend you do so, as you will not only get a better understanding of the characters, many of whom show up from time to time, but also the issues they are facing. 

Burning Intensity

Title:  Burning Intensity

Author:  Elizabeth Lapthorne

Publisher:  Totally Bound

Publisher URL:  www.totallybound.com

ISBN/BIN:  9781784300234

Genre:  {M/F|, Suspense, Series

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Robert and Eleanor are trying to find a missing painting and know the people in custody should have more information than they let on.  To help with the problem, Eleanor must ask for help from her ex-boyfriend, James.

The seventh book in The Agency series, Burning Intensity, has lots of intense moments between Eleanor and James.  The author throws in a surprise about the Cezanne painting that had been stolen, but leaves it up in the air about what it is exactly.  The storyline is not completely resolved in this book, so the next one should be interesting. 

Eleanor and James have history, but the chemistry still zings between them.  As they resolve what happened to break them up, their relationship interferes with their investigation of the heist that has been woven throughout the series.

A few characters from previous books make an appearance, and some new ones are introduced.  Robert, Eleanor's partner, is instrumental in getting James and Eleanor back together.  Eleanor isn't happy about it, but several situations, after they first meet again, become very funny.

While I am enjoying this series, there are a few times, I would have liked a little more detail about what is going on, or why particular characters do things within the context of what is happening. Readers do need to read the series in order, and I am looking forward to the book eight.

MLR Press Call For Submissions

Call For Submissions: Scare This!

So many think they've outgrown dressing up. That there are no more tricks to be played. That it's all a bunch of hookiness. But what if they meet a real vampire/witch/werewolf? Or what about that special human dressed in a to die for costume that brings all the "tricks and treats" back? A sexy Leather-n-Lace party that lets all the inhibitions go and brings back the magic of the night?

Submissions should:

Have at least one character that HATES Halloween

Be a minimum of 10k, maximum of 40k

Any subgenre is welcome and all prohibitive guidelines are observed.

Deadline for submissions: July 31, 2014.

Submissions should be sent to special_submissions@mlrpress.com

Any questions can be sent to Kris Jacen at KrisJacen@mlrpress.com

Call For Submissions: Bleh, Turkey!

Thanksgiving is a time of turkey and mashed potatoes and pies and family...but what if you don't have a family? What if you don't have a home? What if you're in the military stationed overseas? It's not all smiles and kisses for everyone in November...

Submissions should:

Have at least one character that HATES Thanksgiving

Be a minimum of 10k, maximum of 40k

Any subgenre is welcome and all prohibitive guidelines are observed.

Deadline for submissions: August 31, 2014.

Submissions should be sent to special_submissions@mlrpress.com

Any questions can be sent to Kris Jacen at KrisJacen@mlrpress.com

Call For Submissions: Snowballs, Icicles and...Fire?

Those holidays in December bring smiles to everyone's faces, right? Maybe not. Some (not just that famous Scrooge) have frozen their hearts to the joys of Hanukkah, Yuletide, Kwanzaa and Christmas. They've decided to skip the holidays this year but just maybe there's a special someone that's going to show up and heat up those winter nights...possible ideas: a Secret Santa hoping to be someone's favorite Christmas present; a friend hoping to help light more than candles for Hanukkah; a special artist's project to bring creativity to Kwanzaa; a witch hoping that the magic of Yule will bring them what's been missing from their life.

Submissions should:

Have at least one character that HATES Hanukkah/Yuletide/Kwanzaa/Christmas

Be a minimum of 10k, maximum of 40k

Any subgenre is welcome and all prohibitive guidelines are observed.

Deadline for submissions: September 30, 2014

Submissions should be sent to special_submissions@mlrpress.com

Any questions can be sent to Kris Jacen at KrisJacen@mlrpress.com

Chestnuts Roasting...Nah! Heat up those memories instead

Sledding and hot chocolate...holiday parties with family and friends...finding that absolutely perfect gift for your special someone...first kisses under the mistletoe. Those memories can bring a smile to your face, a twinge to your heart and a tear to your eye. Whether it's remembering a special memory or making a new one, the holidays are the perfect time for it.

Submissions should:

Be centered around a special memory of a holiday, whether a remembered memory or a new one

Be a minimum of 10k, maximum of 40k

Stories may be part of an existing MLR series

Any subgenre is welcome and all prohibitive guidelines are observed.

Deadline for submissions: September 30, 2014

Submissions should be sent to special_submissions@mlrpress.com

Any questions can be sent to Kris Jacen at KrisJacen@mlrpress.com

Call for Submissions: It's illegal to what?

There are still a LOT of strange laws on the books around the US: you can't have sex in front of a horse with a rodeo clown in Massachusetts; Mustaches are illegal in Indiana if the owner of said facial hair "has a tendency to habitually kiss other humans; in Wisconsin, a man may not fire a gun while his partner is having an orgasm; and there are many more - check out WeirdSexLaws.com. Wonder what would happen if someone got caught?

Submissions should:

Have at least one weird sex law that's still on the books today

Be a minimum of 10k, maximum of 40k

Stories may be part of an existing MLR series

Any subgenre is welcome and all prohibitive guidelines are observed.

Deadline for submissions: October 15, 2014

Submissions should be sent to special_submissions@mlrpress.com

Any questions can be sent to Kris Jacen at KrisJacen@mlrpress.com

For Her Protection

Title: For Her Protection

Author: Amber A. Bardan

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

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

ISBN/BIN: 9781419990465

Genre: {M/F} Contemporary

Rating: 2 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Rose Nymph

The moment Connor and Charlize meet, sparks fly. There is obvious attraction but also immediate tension. Charlize’s life revolves around her job as CEO of her family’s company; she won’t let anything get in her way from proving she can be a success. Unfortunately it becomes apparent that the company she controls is far from stable and the stress is radiating off her sharply enough that Connor can feel it a mile away. He wants nothing more than to distract her from all things corporate and get her focused solely on the physical pleasure he can provide.

When Connor realises just how bad things are for Charlize at work, he offers up his security services and makes it his prime directive to personally keep the boss lady safe. However he’s about to realise that you can’t make Charlize do anything she doesn’t want to do. It’s a battle of wills but Conner is finally able to bring down Charlize’s walls of resistance However with Connor’s constant distraction and hidden enemies trying to destroy her, will Charlize regret mixing business with pleasure?

There is an interesting story itching to get out of For Her Protection; one of sinister workplace behaviour that I couldn’t wait for Charlize to overcome, but it suffered from being pushed to the background while Charlize and Conner’s relationship went back and forth. I wanted to like them, but most of the time they drove me crazy. They are passionate, strong-willed and steadfast in their ideas, but they clashed constantly, which spoiled their relationship for me. I was rooting for Charlize, but her entire situation seemed to trigger distress in me, especially the workplace harassment. I connected with the situation in such a way that I wasn’t able to relax and enjoy the story. What Charlize was going through was too serious and stressful to me and most of the time, Connor’s response to the situation turned me off.

Many characters seemed stereotypical and frustrating. There is a scene where the actions of two implied steroid abusing gym guys cause injury to a female gym user. Charlize witnesses this and gives the guys hell – great, but the insinuation that Charlize was so hot headed that it clouded her judgement; that these two guys were actually going to cause grievous bodily harm to her but she was oblivious and needed Connor to step in, was frustrating. The way he intervened, with no consideration, as if Charlize couldn’t comprehend the situation; literally throwing her over his shoulder, kicking and screaming, saddened me. Conner refers to Charlize as a “she-cat”, and a “creature”. She is irritated by this, as was I, and she shows it, but of course Connor loves to see her worked up and frustrated so keeps on doing it. Two can play at that game, and Charlize loves it when she can get Conner so worked up that his mask slips. I personally don’t like this kind of interaction. I understand the fantasy and how this can transition into lust and passion, but I couldn’t buy into it. The ending does bring some satisfaction and closure, but the emotion this story stirred up in me meant that I wasn’t personally able to enjoy it.

The Defeat of Lawson

Title: The Defeat of Lawson

Author: Stephani Hecht

Publisher: eXtasy Books

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-77111-933-7

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

The only thing Marty knew about shifters was that they were hated by humans.  When he ends up shifting, he freaks out and knows the only thing he can do is keep this new side of him a secret.  Then he meets Lawson and learns more than he ever expected about the shifter world.

The Defeat of Lawson is one of Ms. Hecht’s newest releases.  Part of her The Lost Shifters series, this story brings one of the unlikeliest heroes into play.  Lawson has a strong dislike of the feline shifters and at times the coalition itself, and while in the beginning it was easy to see him as an odd choice for a main character, after thinking about it some, it did begin to make sense, especially when the author pairs him up with a young, newly shifted feline.  I liked watching Lawson as he became more ‘human’ as he came to care for Marty; when he realized just how ugly he had been towards the felines and at times other members of the coalition, I really felt for him. 

Marty is a young man who had everything going for him, until he has his first shifting episode.  I can only imagine the confusion Marty felt when he shifted, especially since he had no one to talk to afterwards.  With no real knowledge of the shifter world to draw on, Marty is unprepared to deal with the situation when a group of ravens attack him one evening.  Marty is also unsure what to do about Lawson, the young man who ends up saving the day. 

As fans would expect, there is an intense attraction between the two men.  This attraction, of course, leaves Lawson feeling protective of the cougar shifter, who is slightly reluctant to go with him to coalition headquarters.  Marty is full of trepidation as he walks into the coalition for the first time, which is only understandable.  It is easy to understand how he feels and when he is told that his parents and friends must now believe he is dead, I wanted to cry along with him. 

There is a lot going on in The Defeat of Lawson that will hold the reader’s attention.  There are also appearances by several former characters who help the two young men find their happily ever after.  The author also leaves a couple of crumbs behind to tease the readers and I can’t wait to see what will happen with the new assassins or the results of Marty’s blood work.  

Readers of this series are sure to love this new addition.  Although the books may be considered stand-alone, I would strongly recommend reading the books in order.  

Belligerent Beta

Title: Belligerent Beta

Author: Poppy Dennison

Publisher: Wilde City Press

Publisher URL: www.wildecity.com

ISBN: 978-1-925180-00-8

Genre: {M/M} Werewolf Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Dan Keller has an image to uphold, although he has been rather lax in his Beta duties to the pack of late. Awareness, plus a change in his attitude, opened Dan’s eyes to the possibility of a relationship with the shy pack Omega, Nathan Ross.

Belligerent Beta is the second book in the Pack Partners series. The compassionate plot illustrates the importance of acceptance. The storyline is integrated with a touch of mystery, as well as a smidgen of intimacy. The interaction between the characters is amusing.

Nathan had never felt he was a part of the pack. Yet, Nathan unknowingly had a distinctive connection to several of the pack members. Dan chose to isolate himself as much as possible from the pack until he was made aware of his emotional detachment from everyone. After struggling through personality adjustments, Dan and Nathan realized that bonding with others brings about true happiness, as well as self worth. 

Poppy Dennison has created a splendid saga that I enjoyed immensely. The display of family unit love all through the story is especially heartwarming.

Because of Jade

Title: Because of Jade

Author: Lou Sylvre

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

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

ISBN/BIN: 9781627989480

Genre: {M/M}, Mystery, Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Between Luki being cancer free for five years and married for ten, Luki and Sonny have a lot to celebrate.  The two decide this is the best time to get together with their family and have a big gathering planned.  Only things don’t go the way they are supposed to, and what should have been a happy time soon becomes one of grief. 

Because of Jade is the newest Vasquez and James book by author Lou Sylvre.  This newest book picks up five years after the end of Yes and the two men have just found out the Luki is cancer free.  This should be a happy time for the two men and if you are like me, you want these two to have some good times for a chance.  Yet, the author can’t seem to keep from throwing in some angst and soon the men’s lives are once again in turmoil.  If you have read the blurb on the publisher site then you know what is coming, even so I could not believe when Josh and Ruthie died.  You can feel how divested Luki and Sonny are, and even as I found myself close to tears, I could not help wondering what this would do to our couple. 

The love that Luki and Sonny have for each other has been apparent from the start of this series.  It is during moments like this that it really comes through; as no matter how much each man is hurting, they continue to worry about the other.  This of course causes problems from time to time, and I liked that the author did not drag out these moments of miscommunication.  Then there is little Jade.

Jade is Ruthie and Josh’s daughter.  She has now become the ward of Sonny and Luki and as you can imagine, this is something that has the men unsettled.  The author has done a very good job with the relationship between these three.  There’s so much that needs to be touched on, from the little girl’s grief, to the adjustment the men go through becoming instant parents, to the relationship each man has separately with Jade, that it would have been easy for the author to ignore or gloss over something.  Ms. Sylvre does not do that; instead each aspect is handled in a realistic manner which helps make this a wonderful story.  Even with all the hard times these three find themselves going through, the author does manage to throw in a little humor.  I was so thankful I was not drinking anything when I came to the scene where Jade is apologizing for Luki “accidentally peeing” on one of her class mates, as I am sure it would have gone all over the place.  

Of course this would not be a Vasquez and James story without a little suspense thrown in.  Expect a few twists and turns, some that you are sure to see coming, and some that may surprise you.  I could not believe some of what happened and was surprised by how well each man was able to control themselves.  Because of Jade is a wonderful addition to this series and one book fans should not miss.  While I would love to see these two men settled, the idea of never seeing them again is a little sad, so I hope the author has a few more stories planned for Luki and Sonny.

A Fighting Man

Title: A Fighting Man

Author: Sandrine Gasq-Dion

Publisher: Wilde City Press

Publisher URL: www.wildecity.com

ISBN: 978-1-925180-02-2

Genre: {M/M} Romantic Comedy Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Army Ranger Slater Cassidy is on a mission; he employs his best tactical strategy to capture the attention of the elusive Casper Kennedy. Slater’s goal is a future relationship, but first Slater must break down Casper’s barriers.

A Fighting Man is part of Men Of Manhattan series. The characters in this installment are directly connected to Blaine McKlintock and Spencer Cassidy, the main characters in A Marrying Man. Casper is administrative assistant to Blaine and Slater is Spencer’s younger brother. The plot illustrates all the entertaining ways Slater dreams up to court Casper. Although Casper is resistant at first, he is not immune to Slater’s persistent charms.

 A Fighting Man is a vastly amusing unrequited romantic seduction plot that subsequently cultivates from delightfully heartwarming to a tearful transitory heartbreak when a war zone drama changes the emotional tranquility of Slater and Casper. The description of combat aftermath is very realistic; I mourned the loss of joy right along with the characters. Nevertheless, in spite of or perhaps because of the mental as well as the physical anguish they both experienced, an enduring love immerses along with a new found happiness. 

Sandrine Gasq-Dion has created an incredibly impressive thoroughly enjoyable saga. I suggest reading A Betting Man followed by A Marrying Man first.       

Torquere Press Calls for Submissions

OPEN CALLS FOR ANTHOLOGIES

Our anthology calls are a great place to get your feet wet with a short story, or to explore a theme without committing to a full novella or novel. For all anthology calls, we’re looking for fully realized, romantic LGBT stories about the chosen monthly theme. Make us laugh, make us cry, or surprise us and make us glow with happy endings!

Please send your 10,000 - 20,000 word submissions to submissions@torquerepress.com with the title of the theme (ie: Torqued Tales) and your story title in the subject field. Please see our general submissions guidelines for formatting etc. Each theme has a title and due date listed on the individual call.

OCTOBER 2014 -- ETERNALLY DARK -- DEADLINE JULY 15

All vampires are creatures of darkness, but these have a twist: they're forced to endure an existence of literal, as well as spiritual, darkness. Blind vamps use all of their other senses, including their sixth sense, to find both lovers and prey. Our Eternally Dark anthology will feature fully realized, romantic, stories about blind vampires. Deadline for submission is July 15, 2014.

NOVEMBER 2014 -- PUNK'D -- DEADLINE AUGUST 15

Whether we're taking high tea in a dirigible over London, chasing exotic werebeasts through the jungles of Darkest Africa, or pitting Continental mechanical know-how against the New World's sharp-shootin' cowboys -- steampunk, gaslamp, and clockpunk stories really crank our gears! The Punk'd anthology will feature fully realized, romantic gay (m/m) stories about life and love in the steampunk (and related) genres. Deadline for submission is August 15, 2014.

DECEMBER 2014 -- SANTA'S LITTLE KINKSTERS -- DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 15

We're hoping to fill our stockings this holiday season with stories as kinky as the curls in Santa's beard. Does the heat of a good spanking keep the winter chills at bay? Does practice tying up a sub help when it comes time to put garlands on the tree or ribbon on presents? Do the reindeer sometimes misbehave just so they can get a lick of the whip -- and what do those elves do while Santa's out delivering toys, anyway? Send us your fully realized, romantic m/m stories of holiday kink  for our Santa's Little Kinksters anthology. Deadline for submission is September 15, 2014.

LESSONS IN LOVE CHARITY SIP BLITZ -- DEADLINE JULY 1

Every year, the generous authors at Torquere write stories and donate the proceeds of these shorts to charity, with Torquere matching each donation. We call it the charity sip blitz, and this year, our charity is the Point Foundation. 

From their website:
The Point Foundation empowers promising LGBTQ students to achieve their full academic and leadership potential – despite the obstacles often put before them – to make a significant impact on society.

http://www.pointfoundation.org/

We're looking for fully realized GLBTQ stories that relate to academics, school, university and learning. We're a romance publisher, so give us a good love story, on that will make the reader fall in love with the characters and root for them. If you're going to have sexual situations, even on the sweeter side, please make your protagonists eighteen or older. While we are accepting Prizm young adult submissions on this call, we are representing an organization that caters to students, and we need to make sure our content is age-appropriate. Feel free to surprise us with non-traditional students, alternative learning, and teachers or students of more than just English, Math and Science!

All submissions must be received by July 1, 2014 for a mid-September release. Earlier is better. Word count can range from 3000-8000 words. Longer will be considered, but please query first to help us accommodate our editing schedule! Please see our general submission guidelines for formatting requirements. Send submissions to submissions@torquerepress.com with Charity Sip Blitz Adult or Charity Sip Blitz Prizm in the subject line.

TALES OF LEATHER

Like your short stories with a little bondage, dominance, spanking, or submission? So do we! In fact, we like BDSM play stories so much that we're giving them their own category. Tales of Leather will be guaranteed to bring on all the hot BDSM action that readers crave. We're looking for romance stories with happy endings, engaging characters, and a fresh point of view. Stories should range from 10,000 to 50,000 words. Longer stories may be considered, but please query first. Stories will be contracted for two years, at our standard royalty rates. Please see our writer's guidelines page for royalty rates, formatting and submission information.

Guidelines:
- GLBT stories -- f/f, m/m, m/m/f
- 10,000 words and up
- standard royalty rates apply
- exclusive electronic 2 year contract

For queries or submissions, contact General Manager/Submissions Editor Kristi Boulware atsubmissions@torquerepress.com

Please put "Tales of Leather" in the subject line of all emails.

Follow our general guidelines.

SPICE IT UP

Who doesn't need a little spice in their life? The Spice it Up line has openings starting in January 2012. Stories need to be inspired by a spice or herb, or the spice must feature prominently in the story. To see what spices have already been used, see our bookstore at www.torquerebooks.com. Spices may be duplicated, but all stories must be original in theme and content. We're looking for romance stories with happy endings, engaging characters, and a fresh point of view. Stories should range from 10,000 to 30,000 words. Longer stories may be considered, but please query first. Stories will be contracted for two years, at our standard royalty rates. Please see our writer's guidelines page for royalty rates, formatting and submission information.

Guidelines:

- GLBT stories -- f/f, m/m, m/m/f
- 10,000 words and up
- standard royalty rates apply
- exclusive electronic 2 year contract

For queries or submissions, contact senior editor Lorna Hinson at submissions@torquerepress.com

Please put "Spice It Up" in the subject line of all emails.

Follow our general guidelines

Bottoms Away

Title: Bottoms Away

Author:  Etienne

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62798-922-0

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary, Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Chris has just had the first of two surgeries that will free him from his ostomy bag.  He is anxious to get home so that he can get on with his life, knowing that soon he will be able to have his final surgery, which will allow him to return as close to normal as possible.

Bottoms Away is the third story in the About a Bottoms series, and since this story picks up right where Bottoms Out ended, it is necessary to read the books in order.  I enjoyed this story and the way in which the author pulls you right back into the world of Avondale.  Chris and Mickey continue to face a variety of issues that pop up in their lives.  Through all the issues they face, the love between them continues hold them together. 

I loved the project Mickey came up with in order to keep Chris busy while recuperating from the first surgery.  It was an unusual little twist.  Then there is Ted, Chris’ little brother.  I had to agree with Chris’ opinion of the truant officer who showed up at the house and am not sure I would have been as polite in the beginning.  As for the way Chris and Mickey deal with the abuse in Ted’s past, I am glad they were able to bring justice for the little boy.  The men also touch base with a variety of family members, which does not always work out well. 

For those who have  not yet given this author a try, his style of writing is a little different than some.  I will admit that the first time I tried one of his books, I had a little trouble getting into the book, yet by the end I was a fan.  Now I am addicted and About a Bottoms is just one more series that is on my must read list.  

Hide

Title: Hide

Author: Bailey Bradford

Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing

Publisher URL: www.totallybound.com

ISBN: 9781784300272

Genre: {M/M} Were-shifters Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Worthless! Adal had been mentally programmed all through his childhood to believe that he and his brother Steven were too unworthy to live. Meeting human Dorso Rodriguez and discovering Dorso is his mate; Adal begins to break free of the crippling lies along with the toxins inflected by his evil father.

Hide is the first book in the Spotless series, which is a spinoff of the Leopard's Spots series. The main connecting character from the previous series is Isaiah. In this episode, Dorso works at Snow leopard Isaiah’s auto repair shop. Adal and his older brother Steven have been sent to abduct Isaiah’s mate, Amur leopard Bae.

Adal is a dual breed cat shifter with a down trodden personality because of his abusive childhood, yet he is a compassionate man. Adal lives in constant fear of his father, he is reluctant to fight, but will kill anyone who threatens Dorso.

Although Dorso is human, he is strong as well as very protective of Adal. Dorso has a big open-minded family who only want to see him settled into a long term relationship. 

Bailey Bradford has created an enjoyable introduction to a new series. I found Adal’s dual breed combination as well as the dual blending of series’ characters intriguing.  There are not a lot of battle scenes in this installment; however the intimacy scenes are scorching. I suggest reading the Leopard's Spots series first to fully enjoy Hide. 

The Protector

Title: The Protector

Author: Cooper West

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62798-443-0

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Suspense

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Alex has been having a hard time adjusting since the death of his husband.  Even after all these years, he has no desire to look at anybody else.  Marcus has all but given up on finding the one for him.  Neither man is thrilled to be brought together and are wondering if their bonding is a mistake.

The Protector is the newest book by author Cooper West.  This is an interesting shape-shifter story, with more than one twist, that keeps the story fresh for the reader.  The author spends a lot of time laying a foundation for the world in which the book takes place.  At times, for me, this became a little dry and boring.  As for the characters and storyline, I found myself pulled in and wondering how the author would wrap everything up in a satisfactory manner.

Alex is a Protector, which means that he is able to take the shape of a dog, in his case a German Shepard.  Until the death of his husband and Handler, Theo, Alex was a member of the police force.  With Theo’s death, everything Alex or anyone else knew about the Guardsmen has been shaken up.  The author does a good job bringing the grief that Alex is going through across realistically.  I can understand why he behaves the way he does and thought that those in charge of the Guardsmen should have done a better job counseling him. 

Marcus is a Handler, which means he is human, yet is able to control the Protector he is bonded with.  The problem Marcus has is that, at 26 years old, he has still not found his Protector, something that is extremely unusual for a Handler.  I wanted him to find his Protector and have his happily ever after, yet knew this was not something that the author would allow to happen right away. 

Marcus and Alex are hot together, yet they have more than the usual amount of obstacles to overcome.  It is easy to understand some of their problems, from Alex’s grief to Marcus’ unrealistic expectations at times.  I could not help wondering if this story was going to end well. 

Besides the relationship between the two men, The Protector has a mystery woven through it that will keep the reader’s attention.  Some aspects are predictable, however, the author does keep the reader guessing about who is the bad guy.  There are a few little twists and turns in the story and I loved the way the author wrapped up both the romantic storyline and the mystery.  

The Protector would make a great first book in what would be an interesting series.  I hope the author has plans to revisit this world again.

Strategic Lust

Title:  Strategic Lust

Author:  Elizabeth Lapthorne

Publisher:  Ellora’s Cave

Publisher URL:  www.jasminejade.com

ISBN/BIN:  97814199949111

Genre:  {M/F}, Paranormal, Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Kate is protecting Josh since there is a price on his head after he and his partner destroyed an evil grimoire.  This is the first time she has ever been tempted to break her rules because Josh is so appealing.

The ninth book in the Urban Seductions series, Strategic Lust, picks up where Strategic Surrender left off.  Josh and Kate are trying to help find who put the price on their heads and discover why there are actually two different factions after them, as they try to figure things out.

Kate and Josh have chemistry and Kate tries hard to stay focused on protecting him.  Several things happen that cause Kate and Josh to discuss their jobs and why things have be a certain way, which lead to declarations of love on both their part.

Several secondary characters from previous books show up to try to help with a situation, which hopefully will resolve the issue regarding the contract.  I was surprised at the resolution of one situation, as I did not see that particular thing happening, though after thinking about it, it is understandable.  A character that hasn’t shown up in the last few books, was mentioned, so there is a possibility that he might have his own story in the future.  I sure hope so. 

The series has so many twists and turns among the human, witch and wizard populations and what can happen when magic is involved.  Once a thread seems to be resolved, another pops up that is even more twisted than the last one.  This series needs to be read in order to get the most out of it.  I’m looking forward to the next book.

For Love of: Tangi

Title: For Love of: Tangi

Author: Antonio

Publisher: Smashwords

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

ISBN/BIN: 9781311457059

Genre: {M/M}, Coming of Age, Young Adult

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Colt’s life has been golden, never really knowing a moment of uncertainty or discontent until the day he meets Tangi.  Tangi is the “new kid” at school and, like Colt, a senior.  When Colt mistakes the other boy for a girl, and asks him to lunch in front of the entire class, everything changes for both of them. 

For Love of: Tangi is my first book by this author and I have to say I enjoyed it very much.  The story is a little unusual as, at times, it seems as if there are more than two main characters. However the story does center on Colt and Tangi, with everyone else pulled into their universe.  Colt is the town’s golden boy but he does not carry the air of entitlement such a position would bring which is unusual.  His confidence takes a hit, however, when he meets Tangi.  I liked that the author allowed him to continue to feel uncertain even as he sets out to befriend, and later falls in love, with Tangi. 

Tangi is different from the rest of the kids at school.  Thanks to his parents, Tangi is a world traveler which gives him an exotic air; the fact that his looks are unique does not hurt either.  While he is not offended by the fact that Colt thinks he is a girl at first, he really does expect the school’s star football player to keep the lunch date that shocks the school.  Tangi is an easy going character.  I love that the author gives him a hidden strength that both young men will find useful at times.

The author also handles the intimacy between the two young men in a way that comes across wonderfully.  The passion between them is hot and intense, even though they choose to take things slowly, waiting to become more physical.  

There is a wide variety of secondary characters in For Love of:  Tangi.  Each one is necessary for moving the story along and, many times, are just as important as the main characters.  There are many fun moments in the story, as well as some tense ones.  The story flows smoothly and will hold the reader’s attention until the very last page.  I could not help hoping for a sequel as For Love of: Tangi came to an end.  I will be keeping my eyes open for more from this author, and encourage those who love the coming of age/young adult sub-genre to give this book a try.

Fireman, Flames and Fettuccine

Title: Fireman, Flames and Fettuccine

Author: Sara York

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02014-0240

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Fireman Grady Madison is being cautiously optimistic about a possible long term relationship after meeting restaurant owner Paul Sessa.

Fireman, Flames and Fettuccine is the second book in the Love's First Response series. The plot features two men who are both insecure; neither man feels he is worthy enough for the other. However, they are both learning that love evolves from companionable personalities. Grady is starting life over as an openly gay man in Everett, Washington. He was transferred to a different fire station after a gay bashing from his former co-workers. Although Grady is accepted by most of his current co-workers, he has not dated anyone.

Paul moved from Hollywood to Everett to be close to his daughter, as well as to break the secreted one night stand cycle he was caught up in. Paul is ready to find an out-in-the-open real love. 

Sara York has created a wonderfully touching budding romance saga that I thoroughly enjoyed. 

Icy Seduction

Title: Icy Seduction

Author: Shara Lanel

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

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

ISBN/BIN: 9781419946905

Genre: {M/F} Paranormal, BDSM Elements

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Rose Nymph

Jake has seen a lot during his time as a New York cabby, but getting stuck in a ditch with a customer about to freeze to death on the back seat is a new one on him. They aren’t going anywhere until morning, so they will have to get inventive in order to stay warm. Huddled together under blankets, Werewolf Jake takes one sniff of Christine’s human scent and is lost. He’s not in the habit of sleeping with strangers but there’s an undeniable psychic connection that has him needing to claim her now. He won’t force her; he just needs to find out whether she is willing to submit.

Christine cannot explain the desire she feels for her cab driver. All she wanted was to get to her parents in the Catskills, but here she is, blanketed in this stranger’s arms, melting despite the cold. She should not allow this to progress; can’t understand what has gotten into her, but his natural dominance is too much of a turn on. It’s not like she’ll ever see him again anyway…

The morning after, there is no regret, just a lot of awkwardness. They go their separate ways, but can’t ignore the pull to be together, even when Christine has returned to her home in Florida. They try the long distance thing, but the wolf in Jake is having none of it, especially as Christine’s behavior would suggest she is trying very hard to forget about him. She doesn’t understand what is happening but luckily for Jake, she can’t seem to hide from this connection any more than he can. Determined to convince Christine that they are fated to be together, Jake decides to reveal his true identity, setting up a shocking chain of events that could spell the end of their fragile bond once and for all. 

I love the mixture of genres that come together in Icy Seduction. On the surface, Christine and Jake are contemporary characters, living normal lives until one fateful night when things ignite. Add some very erotic scenes of BDSM exploration and a powerful, unpredictable paranormal bond and there’s no putting this book down. The focus isn’t on the fact that Jake is a werewolf so much, but on how both Christine and Jake deal with their undeniable bond. Jake shows a great deal of patience and restraint while Christine works through her feelings. They both try to deny the strength of their bond because the odds are stacked against them. Christine has never behaved like this before and is initially worried what Jake must think of her. As things progress, Christine is torn between her natural instincts and cold hard facts. Jake doesn’t want to believe Christine is his mate either, as he knows how difficult it will be to convince her they have a future together. The characters are well thought out and appeal to me because they seem pretty down to earth despite some unreal situations. There is also a nice parallel between what the characters are willing to get up to inside the bedroom compared to what they are afraid of outside of it.