Daryk Rogue

Title: Daryk Rogue
Author: Denise A. Agnew
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/
ISBN: 9781419932137
Genre: {M/F}, Sci-Fi
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amazon Nymph

Xandra’s ship capsizes and she is picked up by a Dragonian slave ship and forced to marry Rayder, in order to keep her safe. Xandra is unaware she is Rayder’s mate and that he is playing a dangerous game with the ship’s Admiral.

In the second book of the Daryk World series, Daryk Rogue gives you more information about both the Dragonians and Magonians and continues to highlight the differences between the two countries. The author brings more intrigue to this story, which keeps the story flowing as you wonder how Rayder is going to pull off his self-imposed mission.

The chemistry between Xandra and Rayder is explosive. The lengths that Rayder goes to protect Xandra is not unrealistic. In some ways, the danger that Xandra and Rayder experience is not unlike the stories we learned about the Old West as we grew up. I liked the way the author resolved the situation after all the twists.

I found some of the secondary characters intriguing and am looking forward to learning more about them in the future. The introduction of a female Daryk One makes you realize that every society has exceptions within and how, sometimes prejudices can have unintended consequences.

You will need to read this series in order, as you will need the background of each book to get a clear idea of what is going on within the Dragonian society. Not only am I looking forward to the next book, I will be reading this series again.

Better Late Than Never

Title: Better Late Than Never
Author: Misa Izanaki
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: N/A
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 3 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Rose Nymph

Leon never thought that a gaming convention would be the place to spend quality time with his best friend, Ian, but when he finds himself alone with him in his hotel room, late at night, after an exhausting day battling, things take a very interesting turn. At first he is very cautious, as the last thing Leon wants is to lose his best friend so soon after splitting up with his lover Peter. No, Leon will gladly keep his fantasies about Ian to himself if it means keeping his close. When Ian shows signs that perhaps Leon doesn’t need to use his imagination any more however, Leon doesn’t think twice.

Better Late Than Never is a fun short story about a couple of guys who are trying to figure out exactly what they want out of their friendship. I loved the gaming element and the way it connected Leon and Ian as it took me back to a time when I used to hang out with friends playing games and being comfortable in my own skin. Although there was potential to their relationship, I wish there had been more development and exploration of the characters. I found it difficult to connect to Leon or Ian in any substantial way as there wasn’t enough detail, which in turn, unfortunately, led to the feeling of things being over before they really had a chance to begin.

Morning Report

Title: Morning Report
Author: Sue Brown
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com
ISBN: 978-1-61581-678-1
Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary, light BDSM
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Luke and Simon met while in college and have been together every since. When Luke returned home to take over the family ranch, Simon was right there with him. Now, ten years later, the men are learning just who their friends really are.

Morning Report by Sue Brown was a very good story. Luke and Simon have been in a relationship for ten years. Although they live in a small Texas town, the men believed that as long as they did not flaunt their relationship, everything was fine. When the new minister shows up and things changed, the men’s lives changed as well.

This is a story that has a realistic feel to it. The stress felt by not only the main characters, but also many of their family and employees, is wonderfully portrayed by the author. All the emotions Simon and Luke portray are believable and readers will understand Luke’s difficulty in forgiving their so-called friends. Unfortunately, the men also have to face problems on the ranch, as a result of the sudden bigotry. Just as unfortunate is the fact that these are all problems that many have to face in reality.

Morning Report is not all angst, though. Luke and Simon are deeply in love and the strong chemistry between them leads to some intense sex scenes. Readers should be aware that there are moments of light BDSM in the story, as well.

While the ending of Morning Report seemed a little rushed, that will not keep me from looking for more stories by this author.

Granite: A Rocky Start

Title: Granite: A Rocky Start
Author: G.H. Worth
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-61040-104-3
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Detective Baxter Alexander and his detective partner are at the courthouse waiting to testify when they are summoned to meet with Assistant District Attorney Cameron Hamilton. Already stressed, Baxter is not looking forward to meeting Cameron alone, the one man Baxter has secretly desired for over a year.

Granite: A Rocky Start is a sweet budding romance story. The storyline gives an overview into the constant pressures involved in law enforcement. Baxter is openly gay if asked. Nevertheless, there is no noticeable indication of his sexuality. Baxter assumed Cameron is straight until Cameron’s angry outburst during their meeting. Cameron announces that he is gay. Expecting trouble from Baxter because of this revelation, Cameron is stunned when Baxter asked for a dinner date. Between their jobs, family and unforeseen events, Baxter and Cameron can only manage a few stolen kisses along with one cherished night of intimacy. G.H. Worth has created an amusing, enjoyable saga.

Bits ‘n’ Bytes

Title: Bits ‘n’ Bytes
Author: Sam Cheever
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/
ISBN: 9781419932250
Genre: {M/F} Older Woman, Younger Man
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amethyst Nymph

Technology and change has never been high on Bliss Drake’s list of favorite things. When her computer goes into the white light, Bliss is forced to replace it. While having an anxiety attack in the middle of the electronics store, Bliss is jolted back to reality by a handsome, young man.

Between his work and his pets, Brad Hoffman has been out of the dating game for a while. When a sexy, wild eyed woman asks for his help, Brad realizes he wants to help her with more than her software problems. The more time he spends with Bliss, the more Brad realizes he wants her in his life permanently.

Opposites attract and heat up the pages in Bits ‘n’ Bytes. Bliss is a woman who enjoys all the action and comforts of city life. When she meets a geeky hunk who enjoys the outdoors, she isn’t sure if they will mesh outside the bedroom. That theory quickly gets shot to hell at the speed of light. Even though Bliss’ ex-lover creates drama that nearly destroys their budding relationship, Brad and Bliss can’t stay separated for long.

Sam Cheever made me laugh more than a few times while I read about the couple’s first date. It was the most delightfully unexpected debacle I’ve seen in a while. I felt so bad for poor Bliss, I could almost visualize the entire scene. At one point when she appeared to reject Brad, I swear my heart nearly broke. My faith in Bliss grew once I realized she wasn’t being selfish at all, but was proving the depth of her feelings for Brad. This story will bring a smile to your face, just as it did to mine.

Dragon Mine

Title: Dragon Mine
Author: Joyee Flynn
Publisher: Siren Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.sirenpublishing.com/
ISBN: 1-60601-964-3
Genre: {M/M/M} Shape-shifter
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Throughout the centuries of his long life, Gabriel Panlong has seen many things but on a trip into town to buy horse supplies, he doesn’t expect to come across two gorgeous men, having sex in an alley. The sight of them in the midst of their passion turns him on but he feels guilty watching, so hurries away to finish his errands.

When he returns to the area, he hears the sound of fists thudding on flesh and smells the unmistakable scent of blood. After rescuing the two small men from the five larger ones beating them, Gabriel takes them back to his ranch to heal, where he learns Neil and Ryan had escaped from an underground slave ring. Can Gabriel teach two men who’ve suffered years of abuse to trust again? Can they teach him to open his heart to love?

Dragon Mine is the first release in Joyee Flynn’s new North American Dragon series and it’s set in an alternative world where the reality of dragons is acknowledged and human females are almost extinct. Both these interesting and unique features pulled me immediately into the story where the author wove an enjoyable paranormal tale filled with little unexpected tidbits, including the rather strange reproductive habits of the dragon race – male-mate pregnancy. Some readers may find this part of the plot a turn-off, but I found it distinctive and not in the least bit offensive – just odd.

The story starts off quickly and flows smoothly from beginning to end, all while seamlessly integrating three very different personalities. There’s plenty of background information on what led to the societal situation of the day and how Neil and Ryan ended up as sex slaves. There’s plenty of sex between the three and I’m shocked to admit, maybe too much in a book of this length. The passion and desire between Neil, Ryan and Gabriel is hot and intense, giving each man what he needs. Still, all isn’t a bed or roses for our two escapees, so watch for a violence filled scene that threatens the happiness the trio is building together. No other spoiler…read and find out!

Watch for the next book in the series, Dragon Ours, featuring Sheriff Todd Zelner, who is briefly introduced in this release.

Starfucker

Title: Starfucker
Author: Michael Willhoite
Publisher: JMS Books
Publisher URL: http://www.jms-books.com/
ISBN: 9781611520231

Genre: {M/M} Futuristic Erotica
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Brad DeMarco spends the day at CelebriSex, Inc. signing contracts and making the final payment on his clone of celebrity James Dean, purchased for sexual pleasure. Within minutes after his arrival, Jimmy initiates the services Brad has paid for.

Starfucker is a very short story designed to generate arousing entertainment. The storyline illustrates a future that is a step up in the escort business. The Madame is now a company. The clones are programmed to have sexual endurance, as well as to be faithful to the buyer. The buyer can choose their desired image. The sex is sizzling; however, this is not a love story with a happy ending. Michael Willhoite’s Starfucker is solely a quick stimulant for fans of gay erotica.

All He Wants

Title: All He Wants
Author: Emily Ryan-Davis
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/
ISBN: 9781419931611
Genre: {M/F} Contemporary
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amethyst Nymph

Keith Moss has wanted the same woman for as long as he can remember. The circumstances and the timing had always been wrong. Now that he’s home from the Marines, Keith is going to claim what is his.

Telly Johnson might be heavily pregnant, but that doesn’t stop her desire for Keith when she picks him up at the bus station. The letters they shared over the months have given Telly hope. She knows Keith wants to protect her, but is it possible that he really wants her?

Even after sizzling sex, Telly doubts Keith’s feelings. Sharing her body with him is easy but sharing her baby and all the baggage that comes with her instant family is too much for Telly to handle. Keith wants to be more than friends with benefits and is hurt that Telly doubts his sincerity. If he doesn’t lay all his cards on the table, Keith could lose her forever.

Pregnancy is different for every woman, and it definitely has undesirable moments. Emily Ryan-Davis has done a fantastic job of weaving romance and reality in All He Wants, the latest addition to the Merry Kinkmas series. Telly is pregnant and not with Keith’s child. Keith isn’t put off by this fact, not even when he discovers some disturbing truths about the baby’s father. How can you not love a man like this? I understood Telly wanting to stand on her own feet and thinking that Keith only wanted to be her safety net. I enjoyed the glimpse into their past as teenagers, because it gave me the feeling that they were destined to be together. This story is too touching and tantalizing to be passed up.

The Demon Catcher

Title: The Demon Catcher
Author: Lesley Hastings
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-61581-801-3
Genre: {M/M} Fantasy
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Brother Euan has always been skeptical about the existence of demons. He believes that when Ajen and Kara made the world, they made it a world that people could understand. However, Euan’s beliefs and assumptions about the world are shattered when Leon of Tremea arrives at the monastery to investigate the reports of demonic activity.

The Demon Catcher is an intriguing short story set in a fantasy world. The well written plot has a religious overtone that is also realistic in today’s world. The setting is The Ajenite monastery, which has an early Christian feel. Raised by the monks, long ago Euan realized he was gay so he remained at the monastery for safety. Euan was able to ignore his illicit thoughts until he met Leon. Leon is attracted to Euan plus he requested Euan’s aid in investigating the tunnels that Euan is well familiar with. Leon and Euan found an opportunity to explore their sexual desires, as well as resolve the chaos taking place around them. Lesley Hastings has created a fascinating saga that I enjoyed.

Taking You Home

Title: Taking You Home
Author: Cooper Davis
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60928-321-6
Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Hunter is on the way to meet his future in-laws but the way Maxwell is acting has Hunter wondering if the trip is really a good idea after all. When it looks like family opposition is alive and well, will that bring the men’s relationship to a halt, or pull them closer together?

I loved Taking You Home by author Cooper Davis. When I’m reading, I like to follow the main characters on their journey of discovery, something you don’t usually get to do with already established couples. Yet, in this story you still get to do that, as Hunter and Maxwell are still learning what they mean to each other. Since the connection between these two is so strong, the chemistry between them is intense. Although Hunter is new to being gay, he is, in many ways, more comfortable with himself than Maxwell. Unfortunately for Maxwell, lack of family acceptance has caused him to deny all that he is. Maxwell fears losing Hunter when he realizes that Maxwell has been keeping secrets is not only understandable, but comes across realistically. I love the way Hunter stands up for his man, working hard to make sure nothing, and no one, ever hurts Maxwell again.

There is some jumping back and forth between the past and present, though not enough to throw off the story, but just enough to let you in on the couple’s beginning. I would have liked to have had a flashback of the first step that moved the men from friends to lovers, though. There are many great scenes in this story, such as the introduction of Maxine, or the bachelor party, and some wonderful secondary characters, all of which help make this a wonderful story and will bring the author many new fans.

The Pharaoh’s Concubine

Title: The Pharaoh’s Concubine
Author: Z. A. Maxfield
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60928-329-2
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Dylan Anderson left his ordinary life behind and has been living openly as the pampered and protected lover of Russian mob boss, Yvgeny Mosko. There isn’t any doubt he cares for his powerful lover, but it’s mostly an arrangement of convenience, allowing him to live a life of luxury. But lately, Dylan’s been thinking about his age and at thirty-six, wondering how much longer he can keep the interest of Yvgeny.

Life changes dramatically when Dylan is kidnapped and beaten and upon his recovery, Mosko retaliates viciously on everyone involved, even William, who tried to help him. Unwilling to let William be hurt further, Dylan helps him escape and the two flee cross-country in a stolen car.

As the days pass and William heals of his injuries, both men come to realize that neither are what or who they appear on the surface and they yearn for what only the other can provide. Yet underneath their newfound happiness lurks the fear of knowing that Mosko never gives something up he consider his.

The Pharaoh’s Concubine is the newest release by talented multi-published author Z. A. Maxfield. This author is an auto-read for me, so I didn’t pay much attention to the blurb before I started reading. I admit that the unusual premise caught me by surprise. As I got involved in the intricate plot, I wasn’t certain how Ms. Maxfield could successfully pull all the threads of her story together, but she did and did it well.

Dylan and William are about as different as different can be – age, family history, cultural background, education…everything. Yet, Ms. Maxfield somehow starts the relationship of these two men under horrible circumstances and through the weaving of her literary magic, blends their lives into that of a believable couple. Yes, there are rocky spots in their developing relationship but there are tender, caring and loving moments, too.

There are supporting characters who add great depth, family history, personal background and interest to the story. I particularly loved the introduction of Desiree, Dylan’s twin, just one of many people from his past who play an important plot role. I’m not going to give away the ending but be aware that Yves and his long past relationship with Dylan plays a significant part.

Collateral Damage

Title: Collateral Damage
Author: J. L. Saint
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60928-264-6
Genre: {M/F} Suspense
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

Being the backbone of the Delta Force Team, Jack Hunter sucks at personal relationships. His job is his total focus and neglecting his family life causes him to miss out on keeping his bond with his daughter. While on a rescue mission, Jack leads his team in to get the hostages and finds them under a serious attack. He can’t remember everything that happens during the attack, but Jack is determined to prove he’s not crazy. One face keeps flashing back to him and no one believes him when he tells them what happened.

After Jack goes AWOL, he is onto a lead regarding the missing man he shot and heads out to see the wife of the faceless man. What he finds is more than he expected and finds himself protecting Lauren Collins from assassins. During this time, he comes to realize that she is totally innocent of the trouble her soon-to-be-ex-husband has caused. All Jack has to do is figure out how to tell her, hoping that she or her twin boys will not hate him for killing her husband.

This is truly an incredible story in the Silent Warrior series. It had me on the edge of my seat until I finished reading the last page and I found myself wanting to look at the end to see what happened. The fascination at the audacity of the villain is quite unbelievable and I was a little disturbed at his ability to murder, without thought of taking a human life. When Jack and his team found out the identity of the villain, it’s a surprise to them but they will make sure to eliminate him quickly.

I must say that Ms. Saint really out did herself on writing Collateral Damage. The scenes were described in detail, giving life to every page for the reader and there were times when I was laughing or rolling my eyes at the antics of the two main characters. Jack and Lauren are meant for each other but ended up on detour routes before they finally met.

I saw Jack as a very strong willed, determined solider who made his job his first priority, leaving his daughter and bitter ex-wife second. When he was faced with the twin boys, he began to see what he was missing in his life and promised himself to reestablish the bond he had with his daughter. I am patiently waiting for the next book in the Silent Warrior series.

Here Kitty, Kitty

Title: Here Kitty, Kitty
Author: Joyee Flynn
Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand
Publisher URL: http://sirenbookstrand.com/
Genre: {M/M/M} Shape-shifter
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Sabertooth tiger shifter Avery Donovan is injured and on the run, looking for a safe haven after he escapes the freak circus where he was held captive. Traveling across a ranch in southern Montana, he detects the unique scent of his human mates, Cord Hartwell and Tyson Fitzgerald. Cord and Ty could not believe their eyes when Avery shifted to human form. However, the sight of his wound immediately set Cord and Ty into action to render medical aid first, and then ask questions later.

Here Kitty, Kitty is the first book in the Purrfect Mates series. This is a wonderful story with heartwarming characters. Avery is a compassionate man. He is not looking for revenge against the people who held him captive; his thoughts are centered on keeping his mates contented. Cord and Ty have secretly been in love with each other for years, although they denied their attraction. The desire to save Avery’s life inspired Cord and Ty to take the necessary steps out of the closet. Here Kitty, Kitty is an amusing tale with plenty of lovemaking, as well as a touch of drama. Joyee Flynn has created a sensuous, fascinating opening to this series

The Geek Next Door

Title: The Geek Next Door
Author: Lauren Fraser
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books
Publisher URL: http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59578-780-4
Genre: {M/F} Contemporary
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Rose Nymph

Erin Sharp has only ever seen her neighbor Dylan as a friend. She loves the relaxing time they spend together, just hanging out and having fun as it allows her to escape the confines of her intense job. A high powered lawyer just craving to make partner, Erin loves what she does and is willing to prove to her boss that she will do anything it takes to get to the top. She just appreciates being able to step back from all the pressure once in a while.

Dylan Crane fell head over heels in love with Erin the moment he first saw her but in the last two years of being neighbors, he seems to have been permanently relegated to friend status. When he spots his chance to prove just how good things could be between them, he’s blown away by Erin’s reaction. It seems both of them have been hiding things from one another but can their relationship survive the change from friendship to something more?

The Geek Next Door delves into the lives of two best friends physically drawn to each other in a way that will change their relationship forever. There is a very nice flow to this story, as well as some good relationship advice about accepting your partner for who they are and not trying to change them into the person you want them to be. Dylan is a lovable guy whose unrequited love for the object of his desire pulled at the heart strings. Erin is a woman who certainly delights in the power she can command, both in the office and in the bedroom, but Dylan can bring out her more relaxed, fun side. They are seemingly well matched, although as their relationship develops, we start to see that perhaps Erin is not as perfect as Dylan first though. Some bad choices are made and there is a shift of power as Erin realizes just how much her friend means to her. I really liked the message of acceptance that both characters learn by the end of this story.

Where to Find Harte

Title: Where to Find Harte
Author: Jade Archer
Publisher: Total-E-Bound
Publisher URL: http://www.total-e-bound.com/
ISBN: 978-0-85715-354-8
Genre: {M/M} Futuristic
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Harte knows he’s the only hope for those he left behind. The cat slaves had no idea what was in store for them and Harte isn’t willing to give up without a fight. Meeting Logan is shock to his system. Even though being caught by Logan means returning to the lab, Harte cannot squash his attraction to the big man. Will he find a helping hand where others found a stern man focused on doing his job?

Bounty Hunter Logan McCabe doesn’t know what makes people sign slavery contracts, but it’s not his job to find out their history, just to return them to their duty. Encountering Harte changes his views and makes him finally want answers, especially Harte’s story. Will he find out what made the run-away slave flee from his obligations?

Logan is an honor bound man who believes you should keep your word and honor commitments. That’s probably why he is so good at his job. Harte is the first person to test his resolve and make him search for answers he never deemed important.

Harte is a loveable character that puts others’ needs ahead of his own. His desire to find help, even in a hopeless situation, made him that much more appealing. The attraction was instantaneous for Logan and it was no shock that Harte felt the same way. To feel the protection of Logan’s arms at that desperate moment primed Harte for his descent into love.

Where to Find Harte is the forth story in Jade Archer’s Contact series. I was delighted to know there is at least one more story being worked on for this series. Jade Archer has created wonderful characters and placed them in a setting where they have no choice but to focus on their budding connection. The imminent danger made the two more easily susceptible to the possibility of love. I appreciated how the author allowed real life to slip into the ending of this story and didn’t make it rosy and happy for all. It made Where to Find Harte more believable. Those who’ve read previous story will enjoy this latest release.

Forever Broken

Title: Forever Broken
Author: Evangeline Anderson
Publisher: Ellora's Cave Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/
ISBN: 9781419930393
Genre: {M/M} Paranormal
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Lunas Locas wolf pack is out hunting vampires. Paul Kraskowski is leading the hunt when they encounter lone vampire, Laurent Montcrieve. During the altercation, Paul and Laurent have physical contact. The touch is like nothing either of them has ever felt before. Instead of killing the vampire, Paul re-directs the pack and allows Laurent to go free.

Forever Broken is a well written romantic turmoil story. The setting is outside of Miami, Florida. The characters are believable. The wolf pack reminded me of a street gang; their only goals in life were to stir up trouble. Paul is the only wolf in the pack not of Spanish decent. Being friends with the pack leader since childhood, as well as a good fighter, insures Paul’s position as second wolf. Paul’s father expects Paul to take over the business in the future. Unfortunately, the pack and his father are homophobic, so Paul is in denial regarding his sexuality plus Paul desires a different profession for his future.

Laurent is a born vampire from a privileged family. The Montcrieves are all about social status, with the exception of Laurent. He is expected to carry on the lineage with a female of equal class. Laurent has spent many years hoping to find his true mate. Realizing that Paul is his soul mate places them both in danger from the bond and their families. Evangeline Anderson has created an emotional, as well as impressive, saga that I enjoyed.

His Duke’s Gift

Title: His Duke’s Gift
Author: Lynn Lorenz
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60737-911-9
Genre: {M/M} Historical
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Twelfth Night and its preparations are important to every person living at Marsden Castle and they’re all excited about getting ready for the upcoming holiday season with its annual gatherings and feasts. It’s the tradition for the duke to bestow gifts on those who serve him and the boy’s, Joss and Tomas, are excited to see what everyone is being given. Even Logan and Drake have gotten wrapped up in finding the perfect gift for each other.

For Drake, the holiday takes a horrible turn when a stranger from the north arrives and suddenly Logan is unavailable, shutting himself away in his room with the man. Fearing the worst when he’s denied contact with his lover and is turned away from his bed, Drake does the only thing possible to prevent doing physical harm to either man – he flees the keep.

When Drake finally returns home, will he find himself replaced or with the weather turning worse, will he make it back to Marsden Castle at all?

Logan and Drake are great characters and I’m thrilled they’ve been propelled to the forefront again in this newest release in Lynn Lorenz’s series In The Company of Men. In His Duke’s Gift, the readers are given a further glimpse into a more developed relationship between these two deeply committed men. It’s also nice seeing these two lovers as caring fathers to two young sons. The vivid descriptions of life in the castle – the clothes, culture, food and how the different classes relate to one another are all handled well, making those aspects of the story come alive. Well done!

Ms. Lorenz did an excellent job expressing Drake’s pain and frustration with Logan after the arrival of the stranger. How he didn’t understand what was going on with his lover while trying to present a good front to his son during the holiday season and why he left suddenly. The scenes while he was gone checking the outposts were quick and to the point, giving him the time away that he needed to think.

The story is told in Drake’s viewpoint, so we don’t get the chance to see what Logan is feeling during his absence. We do see how he reacts upon Drake’s return and how the two go about mending what was torn between them. I, for one, can’t wait to see who’s featured in the next release in this keeper series.

American Love Songs

Title: American Love Songs
Author: Ashlyn Kane
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-61581-696-5
Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

After dropping out of college to pursue his music, Jake promised his mother that should his music still be going nowhere when he turned 21, he’d return to school. With time close to running out and the group one member short, they needed to get their act together soon. Fortunately, Parker showed up just in time.

I really loved American Love Songs by Ashlyn Kane. Set in the world of rock music, a popular theme lately, this story is just a little different. First, neither of the main characters is the lead singer, which seems to be unusual unless the story is part of a series. Next, Jake is openly gay and makes no bones about it. I loved his “take me as I am or get out” attitude. Both these characters are terrifically written. They draw you into their story and leave you wanting to see what will happen next. These two start out as friends and it was fun to see Jake realize that what he felt for Parker was more than friendship.

Parker, on the other hand, is in the closet. After being disowned by his family when they found out he was gay, Parker soon found himself homeless. He may find himself with a new family once he joins the Wayward Sons, but he does not give up his secrets easily. When readers find out what Parker’s family and ex-boyfriend have done, it will be easy for them to understand why he keeps himself so private. Once these two move from friends to lovers, watch out as the chemistry between them is very strong.

Another thing that makes this story so fun to read is the way the story is written. It opens up with an excerpt from the Wayward Son’s blog. Jake’s and, at times, Parker’s blog entries are peppered throughout and helps tell of the bands rise to fame, and the men’s love story. American Love Songs also has many footnotes, something I have never seen in a romance story before, that add a humorous side note to parts of the story.

American Love Songs is a fast paced story and one that readers are sure to love. It is full of rich characters and amusing events that will hold your attention and, at the end, have you hoping for a sequel.

Destinies in Darkness, Part 2

Title: Destinies in Darkness, Part 2
Author: Scarlet Hyacinth
Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand
Publisher URL: http://sirenbookstrand.com/
Genre: {M/M} Paranormals
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Vampire Keenan von Klein, leader of the Paranormal Council of New York, is searching for an escaped killer when Keenan and his mate Eric encounter problems from the underground demons. Keenan and Eric rescue Gabriel from the demons. Sensing Gabriel’s pain, Eric befriends him but Eric's kindness toward the young Kaldorian rouses Keenan's jealousy. Eric's relationship with Keenan becomes progressively stressed.

Destinies in Darkness, Part 2 is the second part of the Kaldor Saga 3. In this fast-paced episode, the saga continues with highlights from part one. The council knows who is responsible for the recent killings. However, before Keenan and Eric can trace the perpetrator, they are presented with a new dilemma.

Kaldorians Cade and Kalin arrive in search of Gabriel. Also, they are appealing to Keenan for assistance in finding Cade's missing brother. Eric and Keenan must take on a dangerous mission to help their new friends, plus accomplish their duty to the council. By the end of all the turmoil, Keenan realizes the connection with Eric seemed to be getting stronger. Keenan learned it all depended on trust and to see Eric not only as his lover, but as his equal. Scarlet Hyacinth has created an exciting conclusion to Kaldor Saga 3.

Destinies in Darkness, Part 1

Title: Destinies in Darkness, Part 1
Author: Scarlet Hyacinth
Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand
Publisher URL: http://sirenbookstrand.com/
Genre: {M/M} Paranormal
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Human psychic Eric McAllister has a life-changing experience when he meets 500 year old vampire, Keenan von Klein. Intrigued by Eric, Keenan decides to take him home. Within a matter of days, Eric and Keenan are in love. Before the two can cultivate their bond, chaos in the paranormal community breaks out. The paranormals have a traitor in their midst and everyone is in danger, including Eric.

Destinies in Darkness, Part 1 Kaldor Saga 3 is a superb romantic suspense. The setting is New York. The building plot is well paced. The engaging storyline centers on finding the culprit among a cast of fairies, demons and shifters as well as vampires. The characters are convincing. The intimate scenes are breathtaking. Being a vampire, Keenan has never experience love or jealousy. Before meeting Eric, Keenan considered humans as simply prey. Now he is torn between sending Eric away for his safety or keeping him with him so that he can personally protect Eric. Keenan also must find out who sent the hunters to kill the paranormals.

Eric has an abusive past, which he learned to mostly block from his memory. As the story unfolds, Eric’s past is revealed. Art is Eric’s only lifeline until he meets Keenan. The bond Eric and Keenan share is heartwarming and at times amusing. Scarlet Hyacinth has created a fantastic saga that I thoroughly enjoyed.