Dying Assassin

Title: Dying Assassin
Author: Joyee Flynn

Publisher: Silver Publishing

Publisher URL: http://silverpublishing.info/
ISBN: 978-1-920484-24-8

Genre: {M/M/M/M/M} Gay Ménage and more, Shape-shifter

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Spencer, Ryder, Luc and Dean have settled down in South Dakota where they hope to build their new lives but someone is out to get Spencer, which makes for a bunch of unhappy werewolves.

Dying Assassin starts off from Ryder’s viewpoint, which is a change, as the previous two stories have been strictly told from Spencer’s viewpoint. The story also starts with a bang, quite literally, as someone comes after Spencer. Each new book is like peeling back another layer in the men’s make-up. Spencer works hard to make all his men feel loved, from getting horses for Luc to helping Ryder realize his worth. Ryder’s reaction to Spencer’s request for help in picking charities had me laughing. Although we learned a lot about Dean in the last book, he still seems a bit of a mystery and I can’t wait till we learn more about him.

Not only do the men have to wonder who may be after Spencer, but they also have some decisions to make about Ethan, the young man who showed up on their doorstep with a gun and orders to kill Spencer. The readers will find themselves just as drawn to this new character as Spencer.

While Dying Assassin ends with the men finding out who was after Spencer and why, it also brought some new problems to their door. As Wolf Harem will not be for every one’s taste, this is a wonderful series with some great characters. Although I am not sure how many more men can be added to the harem without losing some connection, this is a series that I hope will have many more stories to it. Readers who love ménage stories should give it a try, however, this is an open-ended series and the books must be read in order.

Life in Fusion

Title: Life in Fusion
Author: Ethan Day
Publisher: MLR Press
Publisher URL: http://www.mlrbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60820-237-9
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Boone Daniels returns to his New Mexico home after a vacation romance with Wade Walker. The attraction between the two men was instant, quickly followed by the initiation of a love affair. However, now that Boone is home, he is overwhelmed by doubts. Wade is afraid Boone is pulling away. Both men are suffering from separation anxiety.

Life in Fusion is the hilarious well written sequel to Sno Ho. The elaborate plot gives a detailed description of all the characters, along with their reaction to Wade and Boone’s proposed live-together relationship. Also within the plot is a partial sci-fi story written by Boone. The main characters are credible. The secondary characters are comical. Boone is an independent intelligent would-be author. He constantly thinks up snarky comments to conceal his emotionally vulnerable personality. Boone desires a long term relationship, yet he worries he is not worthy of such a commitment.

Wade is a considerate man who accepts Boone’s quirky traits. The strong love they share with each other is the motivator that induces Boone and Wade to endure the idiosyncratic friends and family. Boone and Wade's personalities are complete opposites on several levels. Boone is addicted to coffee, likes junk food, while Wade is all about healthy eating plus staying fit.

Life in Fusion illustrates how finding the middle ground blends their personalities into a feasible permanent liaison. The amazing Ethan Day has produced a marvelously entertaining saga that I enjoyed tremendously.

Burn

Title: Burn
Author: Sean Michael
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerepress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-61040-113-5
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary BDSM
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Even though they grew up in the same neighborhood, Dave and Marshall, like most friends, drifted apart after graduating from high school. Now, they and a few other friends get together once a year to catch up over beer and football. This year when veteran firefighter Marshall arrives, Dave can tell by his stressed body language that something really bad happened that day. When he suggests driving Marshall home, the weary man jumps at the offer and later when he jumps at Dave, things heat up.

Despite having lots in common, things don’t go smoothly for the new lovers. Dave is into the BSDM lifestyle and is a member of The Hammer Club and thinks he can help Marshall relieve the stress and guilt he’s carrying around. While Marshall enjoys the things he and Dave do together, he believes needing them is sick, so he’s convinced there’s something wrong with him.

Can Dave figure out a way to convince the man he loves that the kink he needs and enjoys isn’t a perversion at all, but the stress-reliever he needs to remain sane in his dangerous job? If he can’t, the relationship he’s wanted his entire life might just crash and burn.

Burn is the latest release in The Hammer family of books and I loved the selection of a business owner and a stoic firefighter as the story’s main characters. These guys might have known each other for years but both were only on the fringe of each other’s lives. That was just one thing that made the initial stages of their relationship so interesting.

Dave, our Dom so obviously crazy about Marshall, knows what the stressed-out firefighter needs to relax but is afraid that showing him will send the man running in the opposite direction. So begins the slightly reluctant Marshall’s slow-paced introduction into Dave’s BDSM world. That means, as usual with a Hammer Club related book, that there’s plenty of blistering hot sex but it fits with what’s going on with the story and the growth of the trust between Dave and Marshall. There are bits and pieces of both men’s personal lives interspersed throughout, giving the reader a fairly good idea of their personality, background and what drives them.

These two guys are both likable and Dave is definitely sensitive to both what Marshall needs and how he goes about giving it to him so his lover doesn’t freak out. Marshall is the typical stoic hero who carries the weight of the world on his broad shoulders and seeing him find the one person he can relax and let go of his stress with was nicely plotted. Kudos to Mr. Michael for a job well done.

Spencer’s Secret

Title: Spencer’s Secret
Author: Joyee Flynn

Publisher: Silver Publishing

Publisher URL: http://silverpublishing.info
ISBN: 978-1-920468-76-7

Genre: {M/M/M/M} gay ménage and more, Shape-shifter

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Spencer, Ryder and Luc have been given an ultimatum by the council. Will it bring an end to their relationship or strengthen their bond? Plus, what will happen when Spencer’s men find out he has been keeping secrets?

Spencer’s Secret is the second book in the Wolf Harem series and it is terrific. The guys are back and have a lot of decisions to make, right from the start, so the reader is pulled back into their story from the first page. What I loved about this story is that it is not so much about them being werewolves, but about them being three men in a relationship and trying to make it work. Issues within their relationship soon arise as Luc begins to feel left out and he makes some good points. With the connection between Ryder and Spencer being so tight, it is easy for the reader to understand why Luc feels the way he does.

Just when it seems the men have figured things out the author throws in Dean, a young hitchhiker the men pick up on their way to South Dakota. The emotions Spencer goes through when he realizes the feelings Ryder has for Dean are gut-wrenching and I wanted to shake Ryder for the pain he was causing. Spencer’s fears of being left by his men, and not being loved for himself, become understandable as more of the story unravels. I was a little worried about Dean and how he would affect the men’s relationship, yet, in no time this new character wormed his way in. He is a strong addition to the harem as well as the story line. As for the ending, the cliff hanger is a humdinger and I could not wait to get book three.

Second Chance Bite

Title: Second Chance Bite
Author: Joyee Flynn

Publisher: Silver Publishing

Publisher URL: http://silverpublishing.info/
ISBN: 978-1-920468-56-9

Genre: {M/M}, {M/M/M}, Shape-shifters
Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Spencer never expected his whole way of life could change in a single night. After being attacked by a werewolf, Spencer makes some long-awaited changes to his life. One of those changes is going after Ryder, the young whore he can’t seem to get out of his mind.

Joyee Flynn throws her hat into the werewolf ring with Second Chance Bite, the first book in her Wolf Harem series. To keep the story from becoming a stale retelling of other stories, the author has thrown a twist into the making of her wolves. Now instead of just a bite, which is poisonous, the human must receive the semen of the werewolf, or die.

As for the characters, you can’t help but be drawn to them. Spencer’s turning may be a little difficult for some readers, as it is almost more of a rape than a turning. While we don’t get to see the difficulties this causes in Spencer’s life, the story picks up several years after the bite. We do find out that Spencer has made some important changes. I especially found Ryder intriguing. From the moment he came out to his parents, Ryder’s life has been hell. As a meth-addicted whore, the connection he feels with Spencer is different from anything he’s felt before, and those feelings come across clearly for the reader. The sex between these two is intense, making for some very hot scenes, so beware. While I felt Ryder’s detox went more smoothly than in reality, I did find those to be some of the best moments in the story, as it showcased the developing feelings of the two men.

This is an ongoing series and the author has left the story with a bit of a cliff hanger. After adding to their family by changing another young man in need, Spencer, Ryder and Luc find out there is a Wolf Council and they have broken more than a few rules. If you want a story with some bite to it (no pun intended) then pick up Second Chance Bite by Joyee Flynn.

All Snug

Title: All Snug
Author: B. G. Thomas
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-61581-745-0
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Elliott and Shawn want to buy a special gift for the man in their life for the upcoming Christmas holiday and each have decided on a beautiful antique four-poster bed in a local store. Unfortunately for the confused and uncomfortable business owner, they’ve both decided on the same bed and arrive at the shop at virtually the same time. Unable to make a decision between his customers, the proprietor leaves Elliott and Shawn to decide the bed’s fate.

The men settle on a competition that involves selling charity raffle tickets, mucking out horse stalls, collecting photos, and even talking a girdle off a drag queen, all while their mutual attraction grows. The question is, who deserves the bed more; Elliott who can easily afford the expensive gift or Shawn, the newly out-of-the-closet man barely able to make his rent.

All Snug is the first story by B. G. Thomas that I’ve read and despite being easy to figure out where the story was going, it was an enjoyable holiday story from beginning to end. It’s written entirely in Elliott’s viewpoint, so he’s the much better developed character but we learn enough about Shawn as the story progresses to get a good insight into the struggles he’s gone through in his life. Yes, there are some heavy moments but overall the story is rather lighthearted and fun as the two men race around town trying to outdo each other in their crazy, self-imposed competition.

My only niggle is the issue of not using a condom. In fact, it’s not even mentioned and while there’s a lot to be said for literary license, I found the omission a little glaring and out of character for Elliot since he’s been out for so many years. That being said, the sex scene was hot, intense and well written.

Reindeer Games

Title: Reindeer Games
Author: Jet Mykles
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60737-901-0
Genre: {M/M} Shape-shifter
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Lon is one of the reindeer handlers. He has a major crush on Rom, who is Dasher, the leader of Santa’s shape-shifting team of reindeer. Also in the picture is Wod, who is Dancer, Rom’s second-in-command and Rom’s best friend. Lon is focused on gaining Rom’s attention and fails to notice that Wod is very interested in him.

Reindeer Games is an enchanting story of Santa’s Christmas Village. Lon is very shy; he has been waiting six months for Rom to notice him. Rom is very popular; all the elves compete for his attention. Rom enjoys the sexual freedom in Santa’s Village. Lon craves a real relationship. Understanding Lon’s plight, Wod offers to help Lon have a private talk with Rom. Lon soon becomes aware of Wod’s attraction. Suddenly bewildered by his emotions, Lon must make a choice. Jet Mykles has created an impressively sensual holiday saga that I enjoyed immensely.

Something Shattered

Title: Something Shattered
Author: Bailey Bradford

Publisher: Loose Id

Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60737-921-8

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Jesse’s a cop in a small New Mexico town. He knows the best thing for him is to never let anyone know his secret. Then Caden moves in across the street and Jesse can’t help but wonder what his story is. As Jesse gets pulled in by the mystery that is Caden, keeping his secret no longer seems to be possible.

Fans of Bailey Bradford know that, regardless of what her books are about, they will get a great read. Something Shattered will not disappoint. To start with, both heroes, especially Caden, grab the reader from the start. Both characters have issues that they are struggling with; however, Caden’s just overpower the reader. The reasons behind Caden’s fears are understandable and his actions so realistic that the reader won’t have any problems believing what he is going through. While Caden will make the reader want to protect him, Jesse will have them falling in love by the way he patiently works with Caden, never letting the other man’s fears become a reason to walk away. There are a few secondary characters, some the readers will like and others they won’t, but the one that almost steals the story is Loopy, Caden’s dog. This little one knows just what his owner needs and has no problem making sure he gets it, leading to a few moments that will have the reader laughing.

Something Shattered had me close to tears more than once but that will not keep me from re-reading this great story.

Island Heat

Title: Island Heat
Author: A. J. Llewellyn & D. J. Manly
Publisher: Amber Allure
Publisher URL: www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure
ISBN: 978-1-61124-012-2
Genre: {M/M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

When the opportunity arises for Roman and Philippe, two of Hollywood’s hottest wedding planners to spend ten glorious days in beautiful Tahiti, they jump at it. The French government recently changed its laws and now allows certain foreign nationals to marry on its exotic island shores. With Roman only newly in remission from a near-fatal bout of cancer, the all-expense-paid trip couldn’t have come at a better time for the couple.

It’s like the honeymoon they never had with one potentially big problem; Philippe’s former lover, Tane, is still living in Tahiti and intends to get him back. Roman’s illness has made him feel insecure and watching Tane, the golden Tahitian god, make a play for his lover only makes his self-doubt worse.

Philippe loves Roman deeply but can’t deny that some small part of him wants to experience sex with Tane again. He would never betray Roman, but can his beloved welcome Tane into their bed or will the proposal of a threesome destroy their relationship forever?

Island Heat is the latest release by writing duo A. J. Llewellyn and D .J. Manly. First of all, let me say that I loved that the authors chose a male breast cancer survivor as one of the two main characters. The second unexpected plot choice was the tropical location. As far as I can remember, this is the first book I’ve read set on this exotic island. The descriptions of the various small islands that make up Tahiti are breathtaking and I loved all the little tidbits of customs and culture interspersed among the pages. It really made the island life and its people come to life, making me want to go out and buy a plane ticket. Now!

Roman and Philippe are both intriguing and likable men and both were affected in their own way by Roman’s near-fatal brush with cancer. Despite the horrible health scare, the attraction and passion swirling between these two men hasn’t lessened but only grown stronger and this island trip is just the time away they need after months of painful medical treatments. Putting their trip on an island where Philippe’s ex-lover still lived provided a wonderful point of conflict, allowing all kinds of contention to churn through their normally smooth-flowing relationship. This is a perfect example of the creative talent and flair of this established writing team.

I have to admit that I wasn’t thrilled with Tane on his first introduction but by the end of the book, I couldn’t help myself. He might be sexy and a hot stud in bed but I felt sorry for the guy. The supporting characters, especially those on the trip with Philippe and Roman, were an interesting and varied group. Some were funny, others annoying, and some loud and boisterous flirts. The conversations are at times fun and bantering and at other times serious but through it all, the plot and people flow smoothly and believably from one scene to the next.

Ultimately, this story is an emotional rollercoaster and for lovers of writers, A. J. Llewellyn & D. J. Manly, and male romances in general, I’m certain you’ll be pleased. Enjoy!

Cum and Go

Title: Cum and Go
Author: Zenina Masters
Publisher: eXtasy Books
Publisher URL: http://www.extasybooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-55487-718-8
Genre: {M/F/M/M}, Ménage, Sci-Fi
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amazon Nymph

Because the planet Normia and Halariel are from would not let a clone be in the spotlight, Normia has been the behind the scenes singer and body double for Halariel. Nash, Lero, and Gar are Normia’s mates, though she has been careful to avoid the three together until she was ready.

Cum and Go is the best book in the For Ever More series so far. Normia is like any young woman that wants to see the world before settling down. Normia has been very careful to isolate each one of her clone mates, sleeping with them separately, and not letting them know she is their fourth. Because of threats, Nash, Lero, and Gar are hired as bodyguards for Halariel.

The agent didn’t realize that, once he hired them, Normia would no longer be able to double for her friend. The hunt to find Normia after she is kidnapped had an interesting twist that could have come out of the headlines about new technology and how it is being used. I thought the author did a beautiful job showing several functions of this technology.

I hope the author will follow up with other sets within the various clone series as she has definitely captured my interest in the For Ever More series. Each book can be read by itself, but you will get the most enjoyment reading them in order.

Trust Me

Title: Trust Me
Author: Sydney Somers
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: http://samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60928-249-3
Genre: {M/F} Suspense
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

Detective Maxine Walker is on the run from the law for a murder she didn’t commit and needs to make a decision on her next move. She’s helping out a friend in her gift shop, hoping no one will figure out who she is, and who should walk in but Lucas, who knows her real identity and easily sees through her disguise. While she’s thinking about his offer to have a beer, some of the people looking for her come into the show, and the firefight starts.

Lucas McAllister is out to find who killed his partner and Maxine is at the top of his list of suspects. Now that he’s caught up with her, his doubts in her taking his partner’s life increases and he decides that he wants to help her clear her name instead. When he ends up on the run with Maxine from the villains looking for her, the sparks fly between them, and they both try to resist their attraction.

Trust Me is the first book in The Lassiter Group series and is action-packed from the beginning until the end. I was drawn in from the start and loved every moment of the banter between Lucas and Maxine, because they are perfect for each other. The villain really turned out to be more than one person, and it took me by surprise when I found out who it was.

Now as for Max, she is a cocky, independent pistol packing babe who depends on no one if she can avoid it, and I applaud her courage to finish whatever she started. She did spend a little too much time worrying about situations beyond her control, which didn’t help her in some decisions she made.

Lucas, working for the Lassiter Group after serving in the military, really needed to get a life away from work and the stress he was experiencing from it. Then Maxine came into his life and has him on a ride he never wanted to get off. He won me over with his protective tendencies toward her and that gave him big points in my opinion.

Ms. Somers has many books published but this is my first time reading one of them and I am fascinated by her in-depth detailed research into the police force. I will be adding this book to my list of rereads and encourage others to give this story a try.

This book has been previously published and has been revised and expanded from its original release.

You Can't Choose Your Family

Title: You Can't Choose Your Family
Author: Zahra Owens
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-61581-775-7
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Fran and Jay have been in love since college and been partners for twenty years, but that doesn’t mean their relationship is openly accepted by both sides of their extended families. While Jay’s family openly welcomed Fran and loves him like one of their own, the same can’t be said for Fran’s bigoted homophobic relatives. In fact, his father, a hellfire-and-brimstone-preaching evangelical minister has never accepted his youngest son’s sexual orientation. It’s not that Fran doesn’t want them to know he loves Jay; it’s more that they don’t want to hear it, since it doesn’t fit with their narrow view of the world.

When his father dies at the pulpit during a particularly fiery sermon, Fran hopes the time’s come for the rest of his family to be more accepting, but speaking to his older brother at the funeral nips that hope in the bud. Things change when a series of events gives Fran a chance to build a relationship with his sister and later his mother, when they all met at Jay’s parents for Christmas. Will being with Jay’s family at the holidays allow them to rebuild their relationship, or will seeing him happy with the love of his life be too much for his straight-laced mother, driving a wedge between them forever?

You Can’t Choose Your Family is the latest release by the talented Zahra Owens and it’s a real holiday treat. Jay and Fran are interesting and likable guys, the story is well written and smooth flowing, and the relationship between Fran and his estranged family realistically but painfully portrayed. Ms. Owens did a particularly nice job showing how much Fran and Jay cared for each other. The love and tenderness practically oozed off the page—and the passion they still have after two decades is sizzling hot.

This isn’t a typical Christmas story since it does start off with the death of Fran’s father. That doesn’t mean that there isn’t room in the story for all those things that warms the heart during the holiday season – caring, tenderness, love, compassion, hope for the future and redemption. This little novella is packed with it all and I enjoyed every word, from the first page to the last. The supporting characters coming from the two families are vastly different, rounding out the story, giving it a huge emotional kick. Read and enjoy.

Shift Happens

Title: Shift Happens
Author: Storm Grant
Publisher: Amber Allure
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/
ISBN: 978-1-61124-029-0
Genre: {M/M} Paranormal
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Anthropologist Adrian Thornapple finally gets a chance to apply hands on studies in his chosen profession when he is offered a trip to the Amazon rain forest. Also traveling to the rain forest is Captain Thomas Ferrell, an agent for paranormal investigators Borderless Observers Org. However, Tom is on a mission to terminate a drug operation.

Shift Happens is an action packed adventure. The plot is well written, as well as fast-paced. The characters are convincing. Adrian worked in a mundane office job after graduation. His former mentor invites him on a rainforest expedition, but Adrian declines at first. The events that swiftly follows the expedition offer has Adrian changing his mind. Adrian’s neighbor dies in the hallway in front of his apartment door; the police suspect Adrian is involved in her death. Adrian’s employer is downsizing the work force; his job is on the chopping block. Adrian first meets Tom on the airplane; where they indulge in speedy bathroom sex. This is not the customary actions of either man. Adrian is a quiet respectful observer of details in addition to having a keen mind for solving riddles. These talents come in handy when Tom accidently shifts into a jaguar. By way of shared magical dreams, Adrian decodes the clues to restore Tom’s humanity as well as develops a love for Tom. Even in jaguar form, Tom is an honorable man. Tom never forgets his ingrained duty to protect, especially Adrian, whom Tom has fallen in love with.

Shift Happens is a nail biting action thriller blended with enchantment, hilarity and sensual dreams. Storm Grant has created an excellent escapade that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Sagittarius: Mr. November

Title: Sagittarius: Mr. November
Author: Pepper Espinoza

Publisher: Amber Allure

Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/
ISBN: 978-1-61124-026-9

Genre: {M/M}, Sports

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Patton Cooper is a great quarterback, but he’s also coming to the end of his career. When betrayal leads to a trade, Patton does not know if he can ever recover. Then he meets DeShawn Jones and Patton soon finds more on his mind than his career.

I loved this new story by Pepper Espinoza. The characters in Sagittarius: Mr. November come to life and pull you into their story. Poor Patton has no ground to stand on when DeShawn decides the older quarterback is the man for him. While the chemistry and connection between these two is strong, I liked the fact that the author was able to bring other emotions to the forefront, making the men more realistic. When Patton starts having his “breakdown”, or steps away from DeShawn, the emotions and reasoning behind his actions are believable. While I loved how the author wrapped up the story, I would have loved to have seen Patton’s ex meet up with DeShawn.

Readers who love a little sports action thrown into their stories will love Sagittarius: Mr. November. The author blends a mixture of romance and sports so well that at times it was like watching ESPN. Those readers who do not like a lot of sports in their stories should not worry as the romance between the men is just as well done.

Hopes and Fears

Title: Hopes and Fears
Author: Rowan Speedwell
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-61581-762-7
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Brian McCarthy hates everything about Christmas – the happy music, excessive shopping and food and the over-the-top decorations – everything. He’s the ultimate cynic who doesn’t keep in touch with his family and only believes in quick hookups. The only relationship he’s ever had was with the subject of his award winning book, ‘Caged’, and it was one-sided. His.

When Brian goes in for physical therapy on his injured knee, the last thing he expects is to develop an emotional attachment for this therapist, Jerry. While Brian might be commitment-phobic, the opposite is true of Jerry – hookups aren’t for him, so initially he does everything possible to avoid a personal involvement with Brian. Everything changes with a chance meeting at a dance club and despite his feelings, Brian isn’t certain he can face his past mistakes and move on to a happy future.

Hopes and Fears is the latest release by author Rowan Speedwell and it’s a spin-off of the deeply moving story Finding Zach. Unlike its predecessor, this story is far more lighthearted, at least in the beginning, and its first few words caught my attention, reeled me right into the story and pulled me along. With an opening line of, “I HATE Christmas. I really do”, how could it not? He’s like a warped, sexy, modern day Scrooge.

I liked Brian when he was introduced in the previous release and was thrilled to learn he was getting his own story. He’s an interesting character and even though Hopes and Fears is a novella-length release, Ms. Speedwell did a nice job fleshing out his personality and background – making this man come to life. Jerry was equally intriguing, and the revelation about his background (which will remain hidden here) that I didn’t see coming. These two men are opposite in so many ways but in reality, Jerry is exactly what Brian needs.

The plot is smooth flowing and at times the bantering conversation had me chuckling. Parts of the story are filled with angst but by the final pages the storyline had lightened again, bringing a satisfied smile to my face. As far as I’m concerned this Christmas season release is a keeper. Read and enjoy.

Bear With Me

Title: Bear With Me
Author: Jade Buchanan
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 987-1-60521-572-3
Genre: {M/M/M} Shape-shifters
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Theodore Kisoun is traveling to Inuvik, his childhood home, to visit family. Also traveling to the same area is Christopher Walls and his partner, Robin McKenzie. With a nice whiff of the men seated across from him, Theo suddenly knew Chris and Rob were bears; this is Theo’s lucky day.

Bear With Me is an enchanting forty page snippet with developed characters. The setting is northern Canada. Theo is a very tall, quiet, unmated polar bear. Chris and Rob are mixed breed bears. Chris is shy and loves to read. Rob is very sociable, as well as playful. All three men acknowledged a connection between them. The bond became stronger after a night of lovemaking. Jade Buchanan has created a wonderfully amusing sexy teaser that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Written in Stone

Title: Written in Stone
Author: Rie McGaha
Publisher: Sliver Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.silverpublishing.info/
ISBN: 978-1-920468-53-8
Genre: {M/F} Historical, Vampires
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amethyst Nymph

Gavin Stone is one of the most eligible bachelors around. Not only is he wealthy and handsome, but he’s also a well-read man of dignity. Gaining the attention of the opposite sex has always been effortless for Gavin, up until now. For the first time in his life, Gavin is rejected when he asks a beautiful widow to dance.

An accident has left Angela Elliott broken, physically and mentally. Now she is a shell of her former self. Of course she is attracted to Gavin, but Angela doesn’t understand why Gavin would want her. What man would want to be shackled to her when she was just going through the motions of living?

Gavin and Angela are brought together by a humorous circumstance, which aids them in getting to know each other better. As they spend more time together, Gavin knows that Angela is the woman he wants by his side forever. First, he intends to make her fall in love with him before telling Angela that he is a vampire. Angela is also dealing with a demon of her own, surrounding her accident. A wedge comes between the couple because of secrets and nearly destroys their chances of happiness together.

Angela keeps up her facade by attending social gatherings and making idle chit chat mostly to keep those around her happy. However, when she is alone, Angela is consumed by the depression over the loss of her family and her paralysis. There are moments when her guilt and sorrow drip from the pages like raindrops from a cloudy sky. But, deep inside Angela, a fighter lives and I was so thankful that she hadn’t completely given up. Every night Angela exercises her body in hopes of building up her physical strength. I felt her determination and found myself praying for a miracle.

If Gavin lived in the current time, he would definitely be a superhero. He uses his vampire abilities to help the innocent. The more I learned about him, the more I fell in love with him. It was hard to be angry with Gavin, even when it seemed as if he might be cheating on Angela. If there is such a thing as a perfect gentleman, then Gavin is it.

Rie McGaha takes a romantic approach in explaining the existence of vampires, instead of making it sound like a curse, and I thought it was very clever. Also, readers get a bonus story about Gavin’s family that will leave them begging for more.

Written in Stone is a fantastic dual love story that has made me a fan of Rie McGaha. If the passionate love doesn’t grab you, then the memorable characters, drama, and surprises will.

Tooth & Nail

Title: Tooth & Nail
Author: Mary Calmes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-61581-692-7
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Paranormal
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Dylan Shaw is a hardworking nineteen year-old student and he doesn’t have any business inside a dance club in the Castro district. He’s a beautiful young man, literally dressed like an angel and despite being drunk, Dylan turns down a couple of overzealous guys, which results in him being attacked in the club’s restroom. Malic rescues the younger man and despite his interest, because of his age, Malic refuses to sleep with him. Dylan is everything Malic ever dreamed of for his ‘hearth’ but he’s afraid of hurting or burdening him with the dangerous life he leads.

The reality of Malic’s world won’t be denied and soon Dylan finds himself pulled into a paranormal life he never knew existed. To keep Dylan safe, Malic fights tooth and nail to push him away, in spite of the younger man holding the keys to his safety and most importantly, his heart.

Tooth and Nail is the second release in the Warder series by multi published author Mary Calmes. First off I have to say that I love the book’s title. Initially, I assumed that tooth and nail referred to how hard Malic would be forced to fight demons as a Warder – when instead that’s how hard he fights not to get involved with or hurt Dylan. It’s a cute and effective twist I didn’t expect but appreciated.

I found the dynamic between the gruff, big and burly Malic and the young, sweet and determined Dylan very entertaining. Talk about two vastly different personalities. Yet, Ms. Calmes uses her creative flair, added in fun bantering dialogue between the noble Malic and the persistent Dylan, threw in great secondary characters, a little fast-paced action and some danger and you have all that you need for an entertaining afternoon read.

Steamy Reunion

Title: Steamy Reunion
Author: Jambrea Jo Jones
Publisher: Ellora's Cave Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/
ISBN: 9781419930782
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Ambrose Firth was a geek in high school. Now, fifteen years later, Ambrose’s only inducement to go to a reunion is his yearning to see Noah Winters. Noah is still the star in all of Ambrose’s fantasies. Needing support in presenting his successful man image, as well as being momentarily single, Ambrose hires an escort to play the role of his boyfriend. Noah is everything Ambrose remembered with the exception of now; Noah can’t keep his hands off Ambrose.

Steamy Reunion is just what the title says; a well-written, humorous quick read that will definitely brighten a work break. The setting is Chicago. The characters are believable. Ambrose secretly had a crush on Noah. Ambrose was openly gay in high school. However, Noah was in the closet until college. When the two men meet at the reunion, Noah did not waste any time demonstrating his wishes to be up close and intimately personal with Ambrose on a consistent basis. Ambrose is in full agreement with this plan that perfectly matches his own. Jambrea Jo Jones has created an entertaining, sizzling tidbit that I enjoyed immensely.

An Earlier Heaven

Title: An Earlier Heaven
Author: D.W. Marchwell
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-61581-640-8
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Jerry McKenzie never imagined becoming a husband and father. A year after he adopted his nephew and married the man of his dreams, Jerry still cannot believe how lucky he is. David Loewenberger feels the same intense happiness towards Jerry and William. The three have created an ideal family situation that filled a void in their lives. And while William is the perfect son, he has his fathers worried. Jerry and David want their son happy and to make new friends to share his time with. William isn’t a boy who wants quantity; he prefers quality, which is evident when he encounters a high school student named Cory. Cory has his own issues to sort out, but he’s got a heart of gold that is soon recognized by the tiny family. Is there room in the family for one more child?

An Earlier Heaven is the sequel to D.W. Marchwell’s wonderful story Good to Know. William has definitely grown since the first story. While he’s still young and reacts as only an innocent child could to some situations, his raw emotions brought out my protective mother spirit while reading this story. Jerry and David still have that passionate and explosive chemistry that reminded me of how good a relationship could be with the right mate. Cory was an added bonus to the drama. His pain and desire to have someone care about his was so real, I couldn’t help but root for him and hope that he would find the love and shelter he deserved with the family.

There were a few surprises along the way that kept the story moving along at a nice rate. Marchwell has done yet another fantastic job with creating a story designed to draw the reader in and keep you compelled until the final sentence. Those who enjoyed the first story don’t want to miss this superb sequel.