Between Friends: When Harry Met Jason

Book Title: Between Friends: When Harry Met Jason
Author: Sean Michael
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerepress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-334-5
Genre: Gay (M/M) Erotic Romance/Contemporary
Nymph Rating: 4.5 nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Woodland Nymph

When Harry Met Jason is the second book in the Between Friends series.

Jason has just graduated from college and goes to a frat house party with his best friend Sammy to celebrate. Jason has studied to become a teacher and has to focus now on getting a job when the new semester begins. After leaving Sammy on the dance floor to get a beer, Jason quickly finds himself in a drunken state. Sitting on the sofa as he’s no longer able to stand up on his own, he’s faintly aware of some sort of commotion going on and suddenly he’s looking up into the face of a cop, a big, tall cop.

Officer Harrison and his partner have crashed the party because someone drugged the beer. When all he can get out of Jason is that he lives in the blue house, Harry takes him home with him to sleep it off instead of in a jail cell. Even though Jason makes it clear he’s attracted to Harry and wouldn’t mind sharing the bed with him, Harry, being a little old fashioned, won’t take advantage of him in his drugged condition.

While on their first date, Harry and Jason realize there’s more than just a strong attraction between them. Harry wants to take it slow and when he starts having to pull multiple double shifts at the station they have no choice. Jason wants to jump his bones, but after he starts working at a Children’s Home, there’s just no time for dating.

When Sammy receives a threatening message, Jason immediately calls Harry. Harry calls in his partner Jack to take Sammy’s statement as he won’t talk about it with Harry. Harry and Jason go on a cruise together for some fun in the sun and in the bedroom before Jason starts his substitute teacher position. During their vacation they have a heart to heart talk about their relationship and setting boundaries. Upon returning they discover the threats against Sammy have escalated and Harry takes Jason and Sammy to his place to stay until the danger has passed.

Between Friends: When Harry Met Jason is an amazing story of friendship and love growing between two men in the beginning stages of their relationship. Sean Michael has written a fun, sexy, and fitting story for Harry and Jason, two of the wonderful characters from the first book in this series and who balance each other perfectly. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this installment and felt as if I was visiting with old friends. Fans of Sean Michael and of this series will not be disappointed. I highly recommend this book to all fans of the m/m genre.

Shifting Back

Book Title: Shifting Back
Author: Sean Michael, Kara Larson, Naomi Brooks and Angelia Sparrow, Cat Kane, BA Tortuga
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-186-0
Genre: Paranormal Anthologies, M/M
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Chocolate Minx

The Law of the Jungle by Sean Michael 5 Nymphs
After buying supplies for his ship, Marco set sails for the open sea. Once on their way, his crew suggested he go to his cabin for dinner. There, in his cabin, sat a cage with a beautiful black jungle cat rescued from the natives who were intent on killing the cat. Allowing the cat out of the cage, later that night, Marco discovered that this was no ordinary cat, but a sensual cat-man shifter named Abrigo.

With Wings to Fly by Kara Larson 3 Nymphs
Cai always cared for and protected his foster brother Artur. As they became young men, the caring grew into love. Since early childhood Cai had dreams that he could fly. The first time Artur kissed him, the dreams turned into reality and Cai could shift into a falcon. When Artur is kidnapped, Cai takes to the sky.

Serpent by Naomi Brooks and Angelia Sparrow 3 Nymphs
Arqam’s curiosity leads him to travel from Arabia to India. He is curious about the man-eating monster living in the jungle ruins, so Arqam shifts into man form, and submits to be the yearly sacrifice. Rather than a quick kill, Rakesh decides to play with his food for a short time.

A Matter of Choice by Cat Kane 4 Nymphs
Chasing the urchin who stole a purse from his employer’s relative, Keir Barclay is stabbed in the stomach. Also giving chase is Lord Richard Aysgarth who, when confronted with this life or death choice, bites Keir hoping to save him.

Snake Oil by BA Tortuga 5 Nymphs
Haskell was not interested in Doctor Diavolo’s Circus of Madness wagon train until he noticed the big cat with the scent of his mate in one of the cages. Haskell knew something was wrong when Truett did not respond to him.

Shifting Back is a collection of creative stories by outstanding authors. Each story is an example of emotional connections hiding behind illusions with true self revealed only to their mates in a sensuous display of bonding. Only character names are given in this review so that you can savor these fascinating tales for yourself.

Wanderlust

Book Title: Wanderlust

Author: Shelley Munro

Publisher: Cerridwen Press

Publisher URL: http://www.cerridwenpress.com/
ISBN: 9781419913891
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Nymph rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Bramble Nymph

Being a tour leader for Wanderlust Adventures helps Anna Tietjens to fulfill her dreams of adventure and soothes her restless spirit. Despite her petite appearance, she is fully capable of tackling a large group tour and driving the tour bus single-handedly. Everything is fine but this latest tour from London to Kathmandu seems jinxed as her passengers start turning up dead. If that isn’t enough, her boyfriend Sebastian Brady appears out of nowhere and her catty sister, Elizabeth, is being a thorn in her butt. Is this tour going to end Anna’s Wanderlust or is she capable of catching the culprit before more people get hurt?

Anna is a workaholic with itchy feet that don’t let her stop even for a second. I have never known a person like her, so getting to know her was an experience. Her relationship issues really touched me as she spent all that anxiety in trotting the globe. Sebastian was handsome and sexy and really perfect for a woman like Anna. He protected her without question and was always there for her even if she kept pushing him away. It is amazing how these characters found time for themselves amidst the turmoil. They truly discover each other during the journey, uncovering bits here and there.

While I was figuring out their on-again, off-again relationship, the intensity and feelings in their lovemaking made me a believer. Many secondary characters take part in solving the complex plot but you don’t lose focus even once. I even liked Anna’s bitchy sister Elizabeth. She managed to surprise me quite a few times. Anna’s tour truck, named Alice has a personality of its own, too.

Ms. Munro takes you to visit many places you most likely have never been to. I savored my trip through steamy and spicy India as the author’s beautiful descriptions were perfect for enjoying each exotic destination. The first person narration allows you to put yourself in Anna’s shoes and see what it's like. It also confused me a bit as the villain was also thinking in the first person, but I got the hang of it soon enough. With clever plot twists and a spectacular backdrop, Wanderlust comes across as a breath of fresh air for readers of romantic suspense. Definitely a fast and fun read if you want a heady trip without a ticket!

Eternal Pleasures

Book Title: Eternal Pleasures
Author: Debi Wilder
Publisher: Red Rose Publishing
Publisher URL: https://www.redrosepublishing.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60435-104-0
Genre: Paranormal Erotica/Contemporary
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx


Cassandra Jameson is so sex starved, she is fantasizing about the perfect man who can satisfy her every need all the time. After buying an old building with her best friend Page Matteson, they turn it into a pleasure shop for people with erotic tastes.

When Garrett Alexander loses the only woman he ever loved, he decides to never love again until Cassandra calls to him from the future. He is the former owner of the pleasure store that the ladies now own and when he walks into the store, Cassandra is so overwhelmed by his appearance she yells for Paige who is in the back.

Now that Cassandra knows that Garrett is really from the past, there is a sadness in her as she finally realized that she loves him after losing him so soon.

Eternal Pleasures was such a pleasure to read that I wanted the story to go on for a much longer time. I thought it was fascinating that Garrett had a chocolate shop as a front for giving lessons in sex for the rich. Who would not want to combine both pleasures of chocolate and sex for your enjoyment? From the betrayals to the sexual needs being met, the book reveals so much for you. Debi Wilder has done a wonderful job in writing this book of love lost and found again.

All the Way Home

Book Title: All the Way Home

Author: Jenyfer Matthews

Publisher: Cerridwen Press

Publisher URL: http://www.cerridwenpress.com/
ISBN: 9781419914898
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Nymph rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Bramble Nymph

Maggie Dean dodged Liberty, Ohio, ages ago and opted for New York to complete her PhD in Art History and become a professor. But when a family situation forces her to retrace her steps and help her sister Melanie, Maggie is ready to take the responsibility head on. What she isn’t ready for is to find her high school crush looking as sexy as he did years ago. Lust and attraction can be handled easily, but what if competent vet Sam Callahan craves a stable relationship? Can Maggie give him what he wants or is he asking for too much?

Maggie is a successful modern woman but definitely has problems with relationships. She should be applauded for being there for her sister even though she is in an emotional limbo herself due to a bad break up, created by her mother’s constant disapproval and a bad turn off. Sam was perfect all the way. I loved the way he did away with his wild past and made some really sensible life choices. He showed enough respect and love for Maggie for me to hug him and like him. Glimpses of his hellfire youth showed me that he is a man of passion and did everything from his heart. Their relationship had all the bends to make it feel real and close to the reader’s heart. Hot and steamy sex just enhances the reading experience.

The secondary characters don’t step down anywhere. Ms. Matthews is a wonderful story-teller whose characters crawl into your heart. While you are deeply engrossed in the lead characters' lives, Melanie and her husband Adam make you feel just as strongly for them, too. I ended up reading it in a couple of hours because I couldn't quite put it down. It will certainly be appreciated by anyone who has a family and a past worth remembering.

Along with a taut and compelling plotline and dealing with a life like situation, All the Way Home has the quality of a real life fairy tale. Ms. Matthews has tackled the difficult issue of love, marriage and relationships with ease. The result is a story filled with rich and full characters you can really care about, a little twist at the end, and a very happy ending to satisfy the romance bug in the brain.

In my opinion, a book as beautifully written, heartfelt and sweet as All the Way Home truly deserves the Golden Blush Recommended Read award. It just makes you hope that Ms. Matthews keeps writing with the tenderness, understanding, and compassion that she showed here. Brilliant!

Channeling Morpheus: Payback

Book Title: Channeling Morpheus: Payback
Author: Jordan Castillo Price
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60521-003-2
Genre: Paranormal, Action/Adventure, m/m
Nymph Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Satyr Vael


Michael is something of a vampire hunter. Driven to this line of work after seeing his friend Scary Mary join other poor souls as fodder for murderous vampires, Michael makes it his mission to rid the world (or at least Detroit) of these creatures. Two years after the incident, he's finally found a vampire he's been searching for and so waits in a Goth bar for the vampire to show up for their "date."

Wild Bill, a man who more than lives up to his moniker, practically throws himself at Michael, derailing Michael's plans for the evening. With those complications, Michael finds himself dragged helplessly along as he, Bill, and Gray (the vampire Michael's been waiting for) end up in a hotel room. What follows isn't exactly what Michael planned...

The men (Michael included) are sexy as hell -- even Wild Bill, with his unusual ways. Add the three of them together? Wow. Talk about hot! The sex (and a rather lengthy scene, at that) is incendiary and deliciously detailed, but it's not the least bit repetitive at any point. This is what I love about Price's stories: they're always rich in details but never dull.

Channeling Morpheus: Payback is an interesting story, to say the least. While there isn't a HEA ending (or even a really HFN ending), it does offer promise of more to come. Despite that, if you enjoy Jordan Castillo Price's work, you'll like this. It's a bit different from her usual fare, but in a good way. I happily give it three and a half Nymphs.

Seduction 101

Book Title: Seduction 101

Author: Moira Reid

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: http://www.samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60504-030-1

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Nymph rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Bramble Nymph

Julia hasn’t spent a restful night since Harris Tatum joined her workplace, Masters & Masters Advertising. Lusting after Mr. Wonderful is having a bad effect on her sanity and she decides to do a little seduction of her own. Her best friend Eric is shocked to see Julia bent over in sheer stockings and her shortest black skirt, trying to catch Harris’ attention. Jealousy bites him in the butt and he immediately concocts a plan to educate her about love and the art of seduction.

Julia belongs to the class of women who don’t recognize their potential, despite being beautiful and capable of anything. She is comfortable being a buddy to everyone and I found that I liked her innocence and simplicity. It is not hard to believe that her own best friend has feelings for her. Eric is the type of friend anyone would long for. He is smart, understanding and caring and, when he puts his heart into it, extremely sexy. When he develops feelings for Julia, he is not willing to recognize or voice them and I loved the way Ms. Reid sends his emotions into hyper-drive.

The transformation of friendship into love is handled very nicely by the author. The innovative sex leaves readers hot and bothered and full of ideas to carry out their own Seduction 101. Some pointers can definitely generate sizzle in any real relationship. Dealing with emotions of a myriad of different levels and dimensions, the plot is simple yet effective and enjoyable. There aren’t many secondary characters to mar the course of the storyline and the office romance theme works well here. Eric’s efforts in educating Julia brought a smirk to my lips every time she tried out something new and pushed him towards the edge. Ms. Reid’s charm works well here, giving us a fast-paced entertaining story laced with humor. Seduction 101 is an easy, enjoyable read that’ll give its readers some very memorable lessons.

In the Company of Men: Jackson’s Pride

Book Title: In the Company of Men: Jackson’s Pride
Author: Lynn Lorenz
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-681-1
Genre: GLBT (M/M) Erotic Historical
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Ruby Minx

Will was at the point of death when Jackson found him beaten and tied to a tree with a rope around his neck. His crime? Being a sodomite. After Jackson cuts him down he nurses him to health, and in the days that follow they fall in love. Jackson suspects that Will is no ordinary commoner. When he recovers they journey to his home and Jackson’s fears are confirmed.

Jackson is a nameless bastard with no land or title and he must follow his destiny to his father’s castle in Baymore where he has been summoned. Jackson’s pride will not permit him to become little more than a kept man which, in his mind, is what he would be if he stayed with Will at his home. Will is devastated by the news that Jackson is leaving; he loves Jackson and does not want him to leave as he fears that he may never return from Baymore.

When Jackson arrives at his father’s home he is dying. Hugh, the current Lord Baymore and Jackson’s half brother, is an evil man who is determined to let no one stand in his way and he puts in motion a plan that will ensure his continued status and prosperity

In the Company of Men: Jackson’s Pride is Book 2 in this series and it is just as wonderful as Book 1, The Mercenary’s Tale. It is a superb story of the love between two men who must overcome all obstacles to be together but it is also about another man’s greed and how these two opposing objectives play out in the game of life. The sex, like everything else in the book, is larger than life and the ambience is sensuous, at times intense and incredibly erotic. Ms Lorenz knows how to create love scenes that make the reader feel that the two characters are real.

Jackson is an honourable man who only wants to be acknowledged by his father, allowed to love the man of his choice and be loved in return. Vulnerable Will, who is Jackson’s opposite in looks and demeanour, knows when and how to fight for his man for whom he has a deep and abiding love. The supporting characters are as three dimensional as I have come to expect from this author as, once again, she pens a story that held my interest until the end.

Lynn Lorenz has written another brilliant story about a far-off era that is inhabited by complex and multifaceted characters and she is as good as or better than most writers in the art of world building. I can do no less than give this story 5 Nymphs and highly recommend it to readers unfamiliar with her writing and fans alike.

This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices, violence (including rape of hero by villain), voyeurism

Joust in Time

Book Title: Joust in Time
Author: Debbie Fritter
Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press
Publisher URL: http://whiskeycreekpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60313-078-3
Genre: Romance Historical
Nymph Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx


Courtney Parker would like nothing more than to live in the past but will settle for her knight in shining armor in her fantasies. She is a professional dressmaker who designs dresses from the 15th century and works at the Bristol Renaissance Faire each year. Now that she knows who Reynold really is, she will do all she can to help him.

Reynold Roddington needs to figure out what is happening to him since he has been transported to the 21st century where he understands nothing. Because of his love for Courtney, will he survive all of the evil that is being done to him in the past as well as the present time?

Joust in Time is a beautiful love story surrounding a close family with ties to the Queen and her evil may destroy everything one would believe possible. Reynold & Courtney knew each other from the past before they knew they are true soul mates. When he has to save the lives of those closest to him, there is no doubt that he will do everything within his means to do so. I was very touched by the care that was shown by Reynold towards those he loved. Debbie Fritter writes of knights in shining armor and if you want a true love story then this is your happily every after.

Leashed 3: The Lion's Share

Book Title: Leashed 3: The Lion's Share
Author: Jet Mykles
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-679-8
Genre: Polyamorous (M/M/F), Shapeshifter, Paranormal
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Ruby Minx

In Book I, Leashed: Two For One Deal Meg a witch, had leashed Rudy a wolf and Michael, a jaguar so that they could help her defeat Roland Parks, a most powerful wizard who wanted to own Meg and use her powers for his own evil ends. In Book II, Leashed: More Than A Bargain Shannon Cavanagh, the grand dame and the Witches Council are both after Meg. What’s a witch to do?

Meg is back two months later with her luscious leashed bisexual shifters in Leashed 3: The Lion’s Share. The Council has given her the task of calming raw magic gone awry because of the havoc she has caused but she is not having much luck doing so.

In this new adventure featuring the trio, there’s a new player in town, Terrance B. Sharpe - another threat to paranormals, witches, wizards and mundanes (humans). There is also a potential new love interest for Meg: Logan Lockhart a lion shifter who Meg has lusted after for a long time and who makes her girl parts happy. The first time she meets Terrance B. he has leashed the matriarch of Los Angeles’s very powerful lion’s pride and he tries to charm and co-opt her support in his bid to be grand wizard. Through him Meg meets Logan and she doesn’t know if she’s coming or going when he looks at her. But what is she doing with Logan when she already has two gorgeous shifters of her own?

Meg now has a lot of power and influence and is upset because it seems that everyone in her immediate circle, including Michael, wants her to be grand dame, head of all the witches in the southwest United States something she does not aspire to or want.

Can she withstand the tide that is rushing in to drown her? What will happen to her relationship with Michael and Rudy if she decides that despite all the negatives she will not accept the position of grand dame? Will Michael leave her and take Rudy with him? What’s a girl to do when she has been handed a lion’s share of power on a silver platter? While she is considering her options Meg gets the worst news possible.

Leashed 3: The Lion’s Share is the third book in the series and is a wonderful follow-up in the continuing story of our heroine and two heroes. The pace of the book is fast and the characterizations are phenomenal as is usual in a Jet Mykles story. The sex between Michael, Rudy and Meg are vintage Jet – sensuous, hot, intense and, above all loving as the three of them light the bed on fire without the benefit of a match. The plot is complex and the story held my interest completely until the very end. This book is another glorious ride from the imaginative brain of an author who has never disappointed me and I highly recommend Leashed 3: The Lion’s Share to fans and new readers alike.

The Chess Master's Queen

Book Title: The Chess Master's Queen
Author: Deirdre O'Dare
Publisher: Amber Quill Press
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberHeat/
ISBN: 978-1-60272-215-6
Genre: Science Fiction/Paranormal/BDSM (light)
Nymph Rating: 3 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Satyr Vael


Viktor Yabaczill is a vampire who has found a rather comfortable existence as a university professor and chess champion. Although he must hide the fact of his true nature, he has managed to work around it. When a challenge to a best-of-three chess game arrives, he goes along with all the confidence he has developed as a master.

Ekatrina Kelleher has been waiting for this moment for a long time--a very long time. Spurned in centuries past by a young vampire, she has come to this time and place, over many incarnations, to challenge the one who turned her down. The stakes are high, but she is more than confident that she will be the victor.

With the game set into motion, both play to the best of their abilities, but only one will win. Or will they both come out victors?

The Chess Master's Queen was intriguing, I must say. I greatly enjoyed the premise and the set-up for the challenge. Viktor is sexy in that dark, arrogant way--a true vampire who enjoys using his thrall to toy with humans. Ekatrina, I thought, was the more interesting of the two, however. She has a past I haven't seen in other vampire stories and I would have loved to read more about her.

The sex was definitely hot, especially the first scene between them. Oh, to be Viktor. The eroticism plays throughout the story very well, never becoming dull or overdone.

The only thing I wish about The Chess Master's Queen is that it was longer. I think, for a plot such as this, a little more depth would have done it justice. Overall, though, it's a good, entertaining read. I give it three nymphs.

Mission: RAW

Book Title: Mission: RAW
Author: Mary Winter
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59596-948-4
Genre: Paranormal, Action/ Adventure, GBLT (M/M)
Nymph Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Ruby Minx

A sniper’s bullet had found Sawyer while on a secret mission in the late 1970’s and his injuries were too severe for him to recover. Thirty years later, he wakes up in the Toymaker’s workshop as an action figure with the same Mohawk haircut and markings on his face that he wore during his mission.

Dean Morrow is anxious to start his windsurfing vacation but on arrival at his secluded Caribbean villa, he realizes that he has a neighbour who looks familiar. When he meets Sawyer in person, he is swimming naked in the pool and Dean is attracted to him. The next morning as he is windsurfing, he is joined by Sawyer, who is also passionate about extreme sports but being with him opens old wounds about Dean’s former lover. After Sawyer invites himself over to Dean’s villa they end up in the shower; one thing leads to another and although Dean senses an emotional connection to Sawyer that he hasn’t had since his last relationship, he can’t go beyond oral sex.

A few days later, Dean confronts Sawyer about his convenient presence at the remote location where he is supposed to be the only person in residence. He does not believe Sawyer’s explanation about dying and being reborn as an action figure or his statement that Dean is his new mission and the reason he is back on earth.

Although Dean has difficulty believing Sawyer’s story he still wants him and the first time they actually have sex it’s on a beach where “grains of sand bit into Sawyer’s knees. The roar of the surf combined with the cry of the gulls created a symphony for their lovemaking.” Mary Winter writes so eloquently that I had to quote this text.

But there is danger in the sea and our two heroes will have to fight to stay alive in more ways than one. Can they make it and acknowledge how much they love and need each other? Is Sawyer’s mission to save Dean or himself? Will they overcome their differences and get their happy-ever-after?

Mission: RAW is book 2 in the Live Action Heroes series. Mary Winter creates three dimensional characters that this reader believes can actually walk off the pages of her books and come to life. In this story Dean appears, on the surface, to be carefree and in control but is really a scarred and vulnerable man and Sawyer, who loves Dean, sees him as his reason to live after being given a second chance at life.

I highly recommend Mission: RAW to anyone who likes a bit of adventure and extreme sports to go along with hot loving and I can’t wait for Book 3.

Cowboy Up

Book Title: Cowboy Up
Author: Mary Winter
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.ellorascave.com/
ISBN: 9781419915512
Genre: Gay / Contemporary
Nymph Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Rock Brennan was at the top of his rodeo career when a torrid affair with another cowboy blew up in his face, causing a scandal that resulted in him leaving the sport he loved. Left with little choice but to change his sport, he arrives at the United States Equestrian Team's training camp to hone his skills in the competitive field of reining. He’s intense, focused, determined and ready to work…until he lays eyes on dressage diva Andreas Thorpe. So when he learns the two are assigned to be roommates for the next two weeks, it’s all he can do not to drool.

Andreas Thorpe is at the top of his field. Having spent much of his professional life touring through Europe he hasn’t had to contend with hiding his sexuality like Rock has, but he’d heard of the rodeo scandal. There’s something about the outgoing and sexy cowboy that calls of him, and it’s not long before the two are knee deep in an intense affair that threatens both their focus and their hearts.

Cowboy Up is another entertaining read and enjoyable by author Mary Winter. Once again, this talented author has given her readers another well plotted story set amongst a sport that that I knew little about. In doing so, she not only gave her readers a book written and paced tale, but also provided some interesting sport facts along the way. Her integration of information was flawless and never interrupted the romantic flow of the story. Add in two sexy as sin horsemen, intense emotions, high passion, emotional uncertainty and blistering hot sex at the drop of a hat and you have the components of a wonderful gay contemporary romance.

Two of a Kind

Book Title: Two of a Kind
Author: Destiny Wallace
Publisher: Red Rose Publishing
Publisher URL: https://www.redrosepublishing.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60435-108-8
Genre: Mainstream/MC/IR
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Amethyst Nymph


Sanai Jenkins usually didn’t let strangers into her apartment to use her phone but since the blue-eyed hunk looked normal, she let him in. The more Sanai saw of her neighbor, the more she liked. Since she was already in a long distance relationship, she knew nothing could come of her attraction to her neighbor. Or could it?

Jake Miller wants Sanai to seriously consider a relationship with him and he isn’t taking no for an answer. Just because he is a white sports writer and Sanai’s ex-boyfriend wants her back doesn’t mean Jake is going to give up. He knows they will be a perfect couple, so all he has to do is convince Sanai.

Two of a Kind is a perfect description of Jake and Sanai and a perfect story. Their sexual desire combined with the couple’s humorous banter is one of the most enjoyable aspects. My heart was weakened by Jake’s battle of trying to win Sanai over. Because of her meddling mother’s influence, Sanai almost missed out on the love of her life. Her mother is definitely a piece of work and readers will love being offended by her. This woman is all about “show” and she tries her best to make Sanai pick her idea of the right kind of man. Destiny Wallace tackled the touchy topic of race and didn’t allow it to dominate the story. Her style of writing feels comfortable and beckoning so there is no wonder I am dying for another great story from her.

Past Lies

Book Title: Past Lies
Author: Shayla Kersten
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://ellorascave.com/
ISBN: 978-1-41991-638-0
Genre: Contemporary, GLBT (M/M)
Nymph Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Ruby Minx

Randy Martin is back in town for his 20-year high school reunion, the same town that had ostracised him in the past. Randy is looking forward to rubbing the faces of the town’s wealthy citizens in the dirt because he is now their equal or better. Best of all, he is looking forward to seeing his high school crush Paul Loughton, the town’s Mayor.

Paul is dreading his high school reunion for two reasons. The first - he knows that Randy, whom he hasn’t seen since high school is going to be there. He has always had sexual feelings for Randy but never let on because of his upbringing and the fact that his father, the Judge would be horrified and disown him. His second reason is that all the single women in town would be on the prowl when news of his broken engagement becomes public and his ex-fiancée, who is determined to get back with him, is also going to be there.

When he sees Randy again, Paul knows that he is going down, way down. The feelings from high school can no longer be suppressed and he drinks heavily that night to blunt them. When he becomes too drunk to drive himself home, Randy offers to drive him but what he gets is a ride of the carnal kind. Their first night together is everything he has dreamed of and more; the pleasure is indescribable. Although Paul is inexperienced and has never had sex with another man, he knows that Randy is the real deal for him, but neither one of them is prepared to be outed to his parents or have their relationship become public knowledge.

The book has a lot of wonderful sex, which helps an otherwise thin plot. Shayla Kersten is a mistress in the art of writing great sex scenes and in this book she does not disappoint as each scene has a lot of emotion and variety and also a bit of kink. Paul and Randy seem made for each other.

In Past Lies the characterizations did not work for me. The two protagonists, Paul and Randy, are almost 40 years old but both are afraid of their parents finding out that they are gay. Randy is a high powered executive who has made millions in the technology industry who is scared to tell his mother he is gay even though he has been out since college; his excuse is totally transparent. Paul, a lawyer, is from a wealthy family and while clearly the Bible Belt of Arkansas would not be the most gay-friendly place to live if his sexual orientation were discovered, he could practice law elsewhere. Of the supporting characters Randy’s and Paul’s mothers seem realistic and the Judge is true to type while Diane, Paul’s ex-fiancée is the kind of woman everyone loves to hate – cunning, manipulative and avaricious.

The author redeems herself in end but I still feel that the two men, especially Paul, needed to be stronger and more forthright earlier in the story and this is borne out by the way the conflict is resolved by someone else.

Witness

Book Title: Witness
Author: Mike Shade
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerepress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-347-5
Genre: Gay (M/M)/Erotic Romance/Contemporary Mystery
Nymph Rating: 5 nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Woodland Nymph

Detective Zeke Henderson is investigating a grisly murder of two women and is informed they have a possible suspect, who’s a stoner. While questioning the suspect, who was covered in blood, Zeke remembers him from the scene of an accident he was the first to respond to as a rookie. It had been a drunk driving accident where the driver of the vehicle that was struck had died but the passenger, the man before him, whose only clean part about him were his bright green eyes, had somehow survived.

Gary Short admits he’s crazy and an addict but he’s not stupid, he has a lucrative career writing books under the pseudonym Cole Manning. While being questioned by the tall, broad detective with the kind smile, Gary tells him it’s been following him for years, since before Sammy died in the car accident and on the night of the murders it hugged him and he’d passed out as he’d been unable to breathe. Zeke couldn’t help but wonder just how long Gary had been on the drug, Basic.

Zeke compares Gary’s house to a prison with the property surrounded by fence and with rows of steel bars on every surface. The house inside looks like a warehouse full of papers and mail with innumerable unopened boxes stacked head high throughout. Fans send him horrible ugly things so Gary doesn’t want to see or touch what’s in any of them. Zeke convinces Gary to let him open a few boxes though and quickly finds one filled with pennies that have eyeballs painted on every one.

As Gary is a lot smaller than the detective, to Zeke he seems fragile. Gary finds Zeke’s square jawed street boxer build with hands as big as hams and pretty blue eyes fascinating. The first time Zeke kisses Gary it just feels right and the next time he’s at Gary’s house he can’t stop himself from kissing him again. Gary can’t help but think about Sam and how he would have helped him and loved him so he wouldn’t even have to think about the Basic he now needed more than anything.

After making love for the first time, Zeke picks Gary up to spend the weekend at his place. Zeke has always liked to be dominant and play a little rough it was a big turn on for him but only as long as his lover enjoyed it too. He’d never known anyone who responded to it the way Gary did.

Witness blew me away! Mike Shade has written a fantastic and moving story about healing and love while also being able to include plenty of suspense and danger. Gary is a very sympathetic but likable character. Zeke is an intelligent, handsome knight in shining armor who you’ll find yourself rooting for right from the start. Put the two together and you get an irresistibly winning combination with sex scenes that are beyond hot! Witness is a must read for any fan of the m/m and suspense genres and a book you will want to read again and again.

Taste Test: Spring Fling

Book Title: Taste Test: Spring Fling
Author: Kiernan Kelly, Sean Michael, Cassie Ryan
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-307-1
Genre: Erotica Romance, anthology
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Something Better by Sean Michael 4 Nymphs
Manny is an employee at The Stallions Gay Resort so he decides to spend his vacation there and get service for free. He has had his eye on Dan, one of the guests who checked in with a partner. When Manny spots Dan sitting at the pool alone, Manny takes the seat next to him. The conversation reveals that Dan has been dumped by his boyfriend of eight years; this is good news for Manny. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.

Suddenly, Finally by Cassidy Ryan 5 Nymphs
Casey Travis moved hundreds of miles away to avoid revealing his feeling for his best friend, Josh Ballard. Months later, Josh appeared at his door loaded down with bags and a baby. Before the night was over, Josh revealed that he had been in denial for years, and he was lost without Casey.

Zero’s Fist by Kiernan Kelly 5 Nymphs
When Dante’s lover Zero becomes alpha of the pack, Dante leaves rather than submit. The problem is Dante and Zero are both top wolves who fight just as hard as they love, but a planned attack from another alpha sends Dante racing back to Zero’s side to protect him.

Taste Test: Spring Fling is a delightful teaser, a perfect way to add a little humor to your day. The three talent authors provide a quick lift to a mundane day with just the right touch of sensual love play to inspire sexy thoughts and a desire for more. I greatly enjoyed these impressive and hilarious stories.

Tango's Edge

Book Title: Tango's Edge

Author: Carole Bellacera

Publisher: Cerridwen Press

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

ISBN: 978-1-419-91477-5

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Sphinx Minx

Kerry Niles is in her late 20's, an Olympic skater ready to retire. She's also ready to sever the romantic ties to her dance partner, Adam Cutter. Then handsome Mikhail Kozlof asks for her help. He has information about drug activities that killed his father and an entire Estonian village. He wants political asylum, and he needs Kerry to transport him from Utah to Virginia to get it.

Kerry is a bit of a wild child. There was a scandal with a Canadian hockey player and concerning drug trafficking, but she was cleared. Now she's involved in political intrigue she never dreamed of. And a romance that is more than a woman could hope for.

Mikhail is used as a tool of the government and must lie to Kerry about his feelings. His love and loyalty are both tested.

There are many twists and supporting characters. Mikhail's spoiled brat partner Elena Boiko wants him to help her grab the gold medal. Elena's boyfriend Sean O'Malley is a murderous thug, active in the IRA. Kerry has a stepbrother in the CIA and an almost stepmother who offers assistance.

The espionage tale is engrossing, and it is complimented by details of family connections and affections. Kerry and Mikhail both need to find peace with their pasts. Author Bellacera has done a fine job.

Gone to the Dogs

Book Title: Gone to the Dogs

Author: Marianne Stephens

Publisher: Cerridwen Press

Publisher URL: http://www.cerridwenpress.com/
ISBN: 9781419914881
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Nymph rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Bramble Nymph

Even after her disaster of an engagement, Kathryn Cathleen O’Hara is not happy to leave busy NYC and arrive smack dab in Kansas. She has to prove her worth by helping Yipsey Dipsey Company in developing and selling their new drink, Whoopsie. Kansas is definitely no place for her but fiery fireman Mike Marino is trying to keep her rooted by his side. While both are sharing earth shattering chemistry, someone is trying to sabotage the whole Whoopsie project. Can Katie give up her I-can-do-everything attitude and let Mike help before everything blows in her face?

Katie is a hoot! She is the type of woman I would love to be. She shows intelligence, a sense of humor, sexiness and her own brand of clumsiness that makes her fall right into the arms of her dream boat. Mike is a great guy to know. He springs up at the most outrageously inappropriate times and makes his presence felt all along. Their dialogue and banter was fun to follow and their developing love was wonderful to track. The sex made me feel warm and fuzzy, in perfect sync with the feel of the story.

Ms. Stephens’ style keeps you interested from start to finish. The constant referral and comparison to the Wizard of Oz made me enjoy the story to its utmost. I never even once complained about the first person narration and that gives Ms. Stephens a high place on my list. The huge line up of secondary characters never hinders the perfect pace. Precious Percy Wellington III and Aunt Phoebe have their own places in my heart and I was sorry to see their story end. It was great reading this book. It’s a quick read yet very detailed in what happens complete with fun twists that will keep you guessing.

I’ll never forget the opening line and scene of Gone to the Dogs. It just made sure that I was glued to my seat for the entire length of the story, never moving a muscle. Gone to the Dogs is an unconventional comic romance book for anyone who has fallen in love in unlikely places and amongst nutty zany situations. You can never imagine how it all ends.....

Fancy Free

Book Title: Fancy Free

Author: Shelley Munro

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

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

ISBN: 9781419913341

Genre: Contemporary

Nymph Rating: 2 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Sphinx Minx

Accountant Alice Beasley is summoned to the reading of her godmother's will in new age-y Sloan, New Zealand, where she and her almost-fiancé Steven discover she has inherited Fancy Free, a condom factory.Alice is an almost virgin, looking for stability and security because of her unstable upbringing. She has college loans to pay and the $300,000 she will get if she stays with the company six months looks mighty good.

James, the factory manager, looks good, too. He sets her body on fire at first sight, unlike Steven who has never even tried for sex. Soon Alice and James, in the best interests of the company, are testing condoms right and left. It becomes personal for Alice, but she knows James is a footloose womanizer.

The company is being sabotaged and two mysterious characters, dressed as a dog and a clown, are obviously out to get Alice.

There's lots of sex here, but the story never came together for me. I'm still wondering why Godmother Alicia wanted her will read to the whole town and why she would leave the company to a girl she had not seen for many, many years.

The geriatric board of directors is an unsettling combination of sexy, silly and mean.

James has a wild reputation and his mother and sister hate him, so Alice "really likes him" before they've had a single real conversation. Mom and Sis are nasty and inexplicable, as is the cult known as the Children of Nature that equates prophylactics with abortion.

I also wondered why boyfriend Steven, who didn't even like kissing Alice, wanted to marry her.

The story starts out like a screwball comedy. Then it switches to a bit of a mystery. It succeeds only as a sexual romp, and even that seems a bit tedious. Alice discovers passion instantly, James eventually succumbs to commitment, and I got lots of new and fascinating information about the various colors and styles of condoms available.

The Swithin Chronicles 1: Uly's Comet

Book Title: The Swithin Chronicles 1: Uly's Comet
Author: Sharon Maria Bidwell
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.net/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-319-3
Genre: LGBT Fantasy
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Swithin Prince Markis Shavar is seating in an open area away from the palace, seeking a small amount of peace from his duties. Markis controls the power of the comet, and it is left to him to stop a war that could destroy their world. Lurking in the shadows is a thief set to pick the pockets of Markis. Uly has never failed to succeed until now, caught in a strong grip not able to escape. Uly is held captive first by Markis, then by personal guard Ryanac. Uly is Simmie, a race of people invaded by Swithin and renamed Simeon. Rather than punish the thief, Markis decides to take him back to the palace and educate him in the Swithin way of life.

Keeping with the lessons from his advisers who interpret the prophecy surrounding the comet power, Markis has remained celibate for most of his life. Yet the more time he spends with Uly, the more difficult that state becomes. After months together, Markis admits he is in love with Uly. As the threat of war with the Azulites grows closer, Markis takes the only opportunity open to avoid this war; he rescues the Azulite princess Tressa and marries her.

The Swithin Chronicles: Uly’s Comet is a complex story that showcases fantasy with a touch of emotional reality. Sharon Maria Bidwell exhibits well defined characters, an intricate storyline of a world still in the growing stages. The emotional obstacles Markis, Ryanac and Uly must overcome are heart warming. This is a tantalizing and exhilarating beginning to an inventive series that I enjoyed greatly.

The Swithin Chronicles 2: The Comet's Tail

Book Title: The Swithin Chronicles 2: The Comet's Tail
Author: Sharon Maria Bidwell
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.net/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-559-3
Genre: LGBT Fantasy
Nymph Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Markis Shavar takes his new wife Tressa to tour the camp site. He is surprised at her snobbish attitude towards his people and informs her that she needs to change her ways. Markis’s bodyguard and friend Ryanac is demanding that he and Markis spend more time together to renew their relationship. Uly is jealous of Ryanac and the special connection he shares with Markis, feeling he has no place in Mrkis’s life. Uly seeks the friendship of Antal, a soldier his age, who also saves his life from an assassin. Markis continues to explore how to control the comet powers within him and keep the peace with his three lovers. After an emotionally intense journey, they finally arrive home to start their lives together.

The Swithin Chronicles 2: The Comet’s Tail showcases the demands that Markis must deal with. Still not in complete control, he fears rejection from his lovers or losing control of the comet and killing those he loves with his powers. Sharon Maria Bidwell continues to astonish with this amazing series. The love scenes are sensuous and tantalizing, the emotions are intense and the storyline is outstanding.

The Swithin Chronicles 3: The Comet Cometh

Book Title: The Swithin Chronicles 3: The Comet Cometh
Author: Sharon Maria Bidwell
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.net/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-666-8
Genre: LGBT Fantasy
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Markis is now the king and along with those duties, he still seeks balance and harmony in his personal life. After being crowned Swithin’s king, having another wedding to Tressa, and the death of his father, Markis realized he had neglected his sexual duties to his wife. His other predicament is he is finding it difficult to share Uly and wants to keep him; yet he knows he must share Uly with Ryanac or risk strife in their relationship. The duties of his office brings more problems to Markis; Uly is kidnapped, he learns of his father’s and middle brother Mairtin’s betrayal and the full scope of the comet’s power within him is revealed.

Uly has a fear of losing Markis and Ryanac. Losing the people he loved has always been a part of his past but with the help of these two men, Uly learned that letting go of his past required acceptance of it and moving on. His fear now is he read that people of the same sex could wed and that a union of more than one was acceptable in Swithin culture, yet Markis did not asked Uly to marry him. Uly could only surmise that in a competition against Ryanac, he would lose, so Uly remained silent concerning his wishes.

Ryanac has loved Markis since they were boys but he also desires Uly. Markis must agree to share before Ryanac can make love to Uly alone. Ryanac convinces Markis that this is the only way they can be complete. When Ryanac finally gets the chance, he confesses to Uly that he loves and desires him almost as much as Markis.

The Swithin Chronicles 3: The Comet Cometh is an extraordinary journey that is a combination love story and psychic mystery. All Markis ever wanted was to keep good people safe, to rule well, to find love, and have some peace in his life. Sharon Maria Bidwell illustrates a collection of works that evolves into a phenomenal conclusion in this episode. This series is intriguing, complex with fascinating revelations in each book. The many facets of emotions displayed melt your heart. This is an excellent series that I enjoyed immensely.

A Month From Miami

Book Title: A Month From Miami

Author: Barbara Meyers

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: http://www.samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 1-59998-887-9

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
Nymph rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Bramble Nymph

Bertie Springs, Tennessee loses its charm for Kay Lee Walsh after the death of her ailing grandmother. Opting for a fresh start in Miami, she loads up her old trusty vehicle and sets off to be Kaylee Walsh, hairstylist extraordinaire. Everything is right on track till Old Blue hiccups on the way and dies, leading her to mechanic Rick Braddock. With no money to hitch a ride, she has to agree to baby-sit for Rick's daughter Molly until her car gets better. Will her sunny Miami dreams perish in Perrish, Florida, or is there a chance that she’ll find something new to dream about?

Kaylee is a dear. She comes across as a totally genuine person who has the ability to touch hearts and light up lives. I know that in Rick’s eyes she is a small town girl with lofty dreams but anyone who has the pleasure to know her can see the kind heart behind it all. Despite his past experience with women, Rick seems like a mature adult. His rapport with his daughter is excellent and he displays a sound head on his shoulders. I equally respected both and was eager to see their relationship develop into love.

Ms. Meyers has developed the intricate plot with care. The story sparkles with humor and romance and keeps the reader interested from start to finish. The secondary characters spring vividly to life making the reader forget that they are reading about fictional people. Molly’s presence will certainly delight even those romance lovers who think that children have no place in romance books. These characters will touch your heart and remind you what love can and should be. Ms. Meyers takes up a traditional story and successfully adds a dash of intrigue to make it more endearing. Even though the readers are already enthralled with the cute bubble-gum-blowing Kaylee, they’ll appreciate the perfect pace and fluid writing, too. A Month From Miami is fun, romantic, sincere and perfect for holiday leisure reading. Keep your eyes open for love because you never really know where it is going to hit you. I give this book thumbs up!

Oh Yum! - Teaching Molly

Book Title: Oh Yum! - Teaching Molly
Author: Desiree Holt
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.ellorascave.com/
ISBN: 9781419916038
Genre: BDSM
Nymph Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Molly Gerard is recently divorced from her cheating husband and looking for some excitement in her life to fill the lonely days and nights. Sexually unfulfilled, she wonders if the things she reads about in romance novels and on internet chat sites could happen to her. The scandal revolving around her divorce haunts her, people talk about her behind her back and the pitying looks make her cringe. Even getting invited to a Fourth of July celebration doesn’t lift her spirits since she knows it was done out of duty and not sincere friendship. When tall, gorgeous and sexy Nick sits next to her at the party, all she can think about is that she’s far too old for him or what could he see in her. If she only knew!

Nick Trajan is a neighbor to their host and when he spies the beautiful, lush, mature woman across the yard, he’s smitten. He doesn’t care what others are saying about her, her divorce or her age. All he knows is that he wants her and he’s determined to have her. The question is whether or not she’ll be willing to participate in his Dom’s lifestyle, because he lives it to the fullest, or will she run from him as far and as fast as possible.

I found Teaching Molly to be a great first impression for the new Oh Yum collection of older women/younger men stories recently released through Ellora’s Cave. In this one, author Desiree Holt has penned a fast paced, well written, sexy novella that I couldn’t put down and read in one sitting. The vivid descriptions of Molly’s insecurities pulled at the old hearts strings. After all none of us are getting younger and her insecure feelings about her age and looks were easy to understand, especially in today’s world where surface beauty is important for so many people. The portrayal of Nick as a sexy, dominant man who didn’t care about Molly’s age was a breath of fresh air. Vivid but tasteful descriptions of Nick’s BDSM lifestyle are the norm for this wonderful little gem, so if books in this genre are generally off limits for you, then this one might be a good first exposure.

A Fling in Vampiropolis

Book Title: A Fling in Vampiropolis
Author: Selena Illyria
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59596-966-8
Genre: Paranormal
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Amethyst Nymph


Family and friends attempted to talk Nevada Justice into taking her vacation any place except in an all-vampire city, Vampiropolis. She chose this city because it was dark, mysterious and sexy. That is exactly the kind of atmosphere she wanted for a memorable vacation.

Nevada is open to new experiences, so she throws caution to the wind and starts an affair with a sexy-as-sin vampire, Lucian Sandros. She is content with the short affair but Lucian does not feel the same way. Nevada felt that she was on a casual date, but Lucian felt that he was showing off his new woman. Can they eventually meet on common ground and agree that their union is deeper than a casual fling?

Instant attraction soars like an eagle in A Fling in Vampiropolis and takes you on quite a ride. Justice and Lucian do not waste any time burning up the sheets and I enjoyed every moment of it. Lucian was deeper than I originally thought at the beginning of the story and I am so glad. If Vampiopolis happens to hold another wonderful story I would adore reading about it because this is a great idea.

Atlantis Allure

Book Title: Atlantis Allure
Author: Extasy’s collective minds
Publisher: Extasy Books
Publisher URL: http://www.extasybooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-55487-025-7
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Science Fiction, Shapeshifter, M/M
Nymph Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx


A Tale of a Tail – Paula Calloway
Miranda is lured to the edge of the ship and falls into the beautiful sea green eyes merman who shows her what true pleasure is.

Amphibian Adventure – Madelaine Grant
What would Eden do if she knew that she could have one last fling before plunging into marriage with Jeff??

Sliding into the Sea – C.D. Conejo
After being abandoned by Danilo, Sabrina decides she is going to live her life alone but he comes back to claim her after a year and she is not giving in easily.

Moon Dancer – Alexis Anthony
Altra is legendary with her dancing that gives pleasure to everyone who comes to see her dance and needs to be fulfilled herself afterwards.

Atlantis Allure is a collection of minds that have written short stories for our reading pleasure and that they have done. Each one I read left me wanting more from them and anticipating the next one, as well. There are twenty three stories and each one is very well written, although some shorter than others and very exciting. If you want hot fast reading, this is the book for you and don’t worry about happy endings.

Made for Two - Made For Two Men

Book Title: Made for Two - Made For Two Men
Author: Madison Hayes
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.ellorascave.com/

ISBN: 1-4199-0496-5
Genre: Sci-Fi / Ménage a trois or More
Nymph Rating: 4. 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

There’s a vicious war underway on the planet eYona, and the Silver Duke and the Baroness are after Imprianna, an imp. She’s on the run to prevent them from creating a chemical capable of enslaving men to their will, to use as forced soldiers. Running for her life, she comes across Danjer and Saxon, who she believes would be excellent choices as protective guards. She wants them both and she needs them both. The question is can she convince two dynamic and powerful men to share?

Danjer and Saxon have been friends since childhood. Before the war, they were members of the same rock band and now they serve together in the same military unit, Danjer as the commanding officer. They’ve shared everything for years, but that may come to an end when they meet Imprianna, who they nickname Pink. Danjer’s family is from Earth and he’s adamant that Earthers don’t share their women, not even with their friends. The trouble is that from a physical standpoint, Imps truly are made for two men, so she needs them both.

Made for Two Men is the first book in Ms. Hayes new and exciting series, Made for Two. It’s a wonderfully written story set in the futuristic world of the plant eYona. The book was well plotted, had great suspense elements and enough blistering hot threesome sex to melt the fillings in your teeth. The pace is fast from the very beginning and it doesn’t slow down until the very end. It has a unique planetary culture, a vicious war, drama, betrayal, treachery and enough passion to fill the needs of just about any reader of science fiction romances.

All three characters are interesting and likable, each in their own specials ways, and the men are strong, capable, intelligent, sexy and gorgeous. What’s not to like? They’re also loyal and willing to do anything to keep the other safe and happy. Add Pink to the mix and you have a natural rivalry they’ve never experienced before. This is especially true of Danjer, who has the most difficult time accepting the concept of sharing the woman he loves with his best friend. Watching the three explore the possibilities of a permanent relationship is painful at times but if worked through, will lead to a lasting love where none of them ever have to be alone. I can’t wait to read the next exciting book in this new and unique series with the release of Made For Two Rivals.

Made for Two - Made for Two Rivals

Book Title: Made for Two - Made for Two Rivals
Author: Madison Hayes
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.ellorascave.com/
ISBN: 9781419909481
Genre: Sci-Fi / Ménage a trois or More
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Velvet Meadows isn’t exactly human but considered an Adept, a person genetically predisposed to make physical changes in their body in order to survive changes in their surroundings. This ability is all that allowed to her live through a ninety day enemy bombardment basically unharmed. That is unless you want to count the way she closes herself off emotionally from everyone around her. It’s not until she meets fellow officer Graham that her hearts starts to melt a little, and then he does the unthinkable and betrays her. Will she ever be able to trust him again or will she turn to another officer in the form of Jed?

Jed Castille and Graham Hamm have been rivals in everything they’ve done since meeting in the academy…grades, friends, women and military rank. It’s not any different when they spy Velvet across the recreation room. Jed longs for her from afar, Hamm goes for the all-out frontal attack based on lust and desire. These two men have very different ways to reach out to this wounded and solitary woman but each want her just as badly. The question is who will win her heart?

Made for Two Rivals is the second release in Ms. Hayes exciting science fiction romance series and I’m going to say up front that I loved it. The story starts with a bang and races to the end at break neck speed, almost demanding that you read faster. That along with great writing, likable but diverse primary characters, a great premise and blistering hot sex between Velvet, Jed and Hamm all makes for a true keeper that keeps your attention from beginning to end. I loved the way the author doled out pieces of information, giving her characters the chance to grow and evolve into people the readers could come to care about. That makes for a great story teller in my opinion that makes this wonderful story easily capable of standing on its own. Look for the next book from this series with Made for Two Heroes.

Made for Two - Made for Two Heroes

Book Title: Made for Two - Made for Two Heroes
Author: Madison Hayes
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.ellorascave.com/
ISBN: 9781419916618
Genre: Sci-Fi / Ménage a trois or more
Nymph Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Lieutenant Lacey Meadows survived the bombardment that killed dozens of others, including her lover. After months of rehabilitation she’s been released and reassigned to a new military posting on the planet eYona where her Adept sister and her two husbands live. Emotionally unsettled, she’s no longer willing to open her heart to only one man. She wants two lovers to meet her growing physical needs or nothing at all.

Lieutenant Jason Orlov fell in love with Lacey months before when he first saw her likeness in a sketch her sister Velvet had drawn. He wants her, but isn’t willing to share her with another. The biggest problem though is that at one time he was an Ibeeza boy and can barely stand the slightest touch from another man. How could he ever tolerate getting close enough with another man to share the woman he loves?

Junkie is a long standing member of the eYona military and has recently joined the Alliance. He’s made a commanding officer, which allows him to force Lacey and Jason together and into the physical relationship they both crave. It also gives him the chance to become the third member of the trio, and to satisfy his sexual craving for the one woman he can’t get out of his head. He just never expected that his desire for her would last forever.

Both Lacey and Jason have some dramatic emotional baggage to overcome in order to get on with their lives. It’s only at the demand of Junkie that they start to work through their problems and Junkie is just what they need. He’s commanding, strong and sexually domineering while at the same time supportive and tender. The lengths to which he is willing to go in order to help these two wounded people is heart-warming and it makes you wish for a happy ending for all three. The emotions are intense, the passion high and the sex as blistering hot as the sun. Add in likable characters, good writing, an intriguing plot filled with great secondary characters, a continuing military threat and a vividly described setting and you have all the things needed for a great read.

Made for Two Heroes is the third and newest release by Ms. Hayes in her Made for Two series. It is as equally well written and plotted as the first two books, but unlike the others which could be read as stand alone, this one has enough recurring characters in important positions that the previous Made for Two Rivals should be read first for greater understanding. This series is a definite keeper for lovers of science fiction or ménage stories. Look for the next book in this wonderful series with Made for Two Champions.

Volatile-The Empress and the Executioner

Book Title: Volatile-The Empress and the Executioner
Author: Jeanie Johnson
Publisher: Lulu
Publisher URL: http://www.lulu.com/
ISBN: N/A
Genre: Interracial Romance
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amethyst Nymph


Astarla “Star” Hart is being separated from her sisters to continue her training and she is not happy about it. Lord de Vires, her father and ruler of the vampire nation, has arranged for his personal security leader to escort Star to the training compound. She has no idea that she is destined for greater things or about the mystery that surrounds her past, her parents, or her future. What she does know is that the hide and seek games she plays with Lukas only reinforces her desire for him.

Lukas Montague is commander of the Locke Brotherhood, the group that serves as the physical executers of punishment for the vampire nation. Though he is promised to another mate, Lukas would give his life to protect Star. She is the first female to train as a scout and the only female who has him turned inside out. Her presence caused much chaos and many questions in Lukas’s world and made it impossible for Lukas to stay away from Star, and not claim her as his.

Lukas’ brother, his ex, and Star’s issues all made for some fantastic fights and hair-straightening sex scenes. Star’s parents not only shed light on the mystery surrounding Star’s skills, they also gave readers a glimpse of the beginning of their relationship. It was so emotional and I am praying for more down the road. I am counting the seconds until the linked stories drop about Star’s two sisters, because I know they will be hell on wheels.

Jeanie Johnson has cornered the market with her signature sex and scraping style in Volatile-The Empress and The Executioner. She creates a perfect balance and wraps it up with humor as the gift bag. I feel possessed by the book because each character was projected in my mind as if I were watching a movie and not reading a book, especially the ones that I loved to hate. Scenes merged perfectly and answers are revealed like daylight at sunrise. I am dying to see what surprises are coming next. A brilliant story and the perfect foundation for the series!