Eclipse of the Heart

Book Title: Eclipse of the Heart
Author: Emily Veinglory
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.net/
ISBN: 1-59632-068-0
Genre: Gay Paranormal
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Chocolate Minx

On their way to a pool hall, Mason needs to make a quick stop at the store so he tells his boyfriend Lan to go on ahead. Lan walks into the pool hall and immediately his instincts tell him the room is full of werewolves. He tries to leave but the wolves have other ideas, like use Lan for target practice. Lan is a different kind of werewolf and the others don’t like it. Bruised and resenting what he is, Lan goes back to the hotel room. Mason, a human, knows something is wrong but he loves Lan and decides not to push for the truth. When all things are revealed to Mason, the question becomes can he live with it and still love Lan.

Eclipse of the Heart is a heartwarming story of love and trust. Lan is afraid to trust Mason with the truth of his dual nature. Lan also hates what he is and fears rejection from other weres. Mason is torn between trusting his heart or his head. Emily Veinglory has created an impressive story with some very unique characters that I found very enjoyable.

Sparks Fly

Book Title: Sparks Fly
Author: Clare London
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-935192-04-6
Genre: Gay Contemporary
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Nic Gerrard is everything a young and successful entrepreneur should be; intelligent, smart, charming, and sexually attractive to both men and women. He’s also fiercely devoted to his favorite business: an internet dating service, Sparks. Everything he touches turns to gold and he has the lifestyle trappings to prove it, but he’s also lonely and unhappy. Having his life under the microscope is getting tiring, as are the people who take advantage of his position and power. It’s only when Nic decides to update his original program and he has another chance to spend time with his cleverest computer programmer, Aidan West, that he realizes how much he cares for the reclusive genius. Unfortunately, Aidan doesn’t feel the same way, or at least he doesn’t want to. Nic’s lifestyle offends him, as does his loose morals, hopping from one bed to another. These two mix like oil and water but when a malicious hacker threatens their precious program, they must work together to stop the destruction of a company dear to them both.

I liked Nic right away, even if his emotionally disconnected bed-hopping lifestyle seemed a little extreme, but his secret work with troubled teens and young kids made him endearing. Aidan, on the other hand, was initially a character I didn’t care for much, and his actions and words toward Nic was frustrating until I began to get a handle of why he acted the way he did. The actions and words of Aidan’s parents had damaged his self-esteem, but his hot and cold response to Nic got a little old by the end of the book. Still the sexual tension between these two guys was blistering hot, as was the emotional attraction that kept them both coming back for more. The destructive hacker mystery was well integrated, keeping Nic and Aidan working together…and while I had a couple of guesses at the culprit’s identity, I didn’t get it right in the end. Not even close. Sparks Fly between Nic and Aidan every time they get within a few feet of each other, and as a title, it’s perfect.

The Pardoner's Tale

Book Title: The Pardoner's Tale
Author: Morgan Ferdinand
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-419-9
Genre: Gay Erotic Romance, Paranormal
Nymph Rating: 3 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Nicholas Pardoner, Private Investigator, is sitting in his favorite bar when he notices a vampire. Part of his job was to destroy all vampires, no questions asked. Slipping out into the alley next to the bar, Nick waited, when the vampire came out, Nick attacked. It didn’t take long for Nick to realize this was a fight he could not win, but instead of killing Nick, vampire Alex Finch steals his wallet and turns up on his door step the next evening to return the wallet. Nick allows Alex to move in, and a friendship is born.

The Pardoner’s Tale is a delightful story of Nick the werewolf and Alex the vampire, joining together to hunt down a deadly force that is out to get Alex. Morgan Ferdinand has created a hilarious saga that is very entertaining however; the genre is misleading in that this is not a romance story but a non-erotic paranormal comedy.

Tygers 5: Sweet Redemption

Book Title: Tygers 5: Sweet Redemption
Author: Melinda Barron
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-745-0
Genre: BDSM Multicultural
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Dom TK Holing is the hunky owner of Miami-based M’s Playhouse, a private BDSM club. He became acquainted with Helena several months before when he participated in her rescue from a physically and mentally abusive man who ‘thought’ he was a Dom. When TK learns that Helena’s secluded herself away in a friend’s mountain cabin, he takes it upon himself to help her, by learning what living and believing in a BDSM lifestyle really means. He soon discovers that Helena was never actually trained; she’s just read on her own and fell into the pain/pleasure scenes that she craved. He’s determined to teach Helena how to trust and depend on him, while at the same time discovering what she needs to be healthy and happy.

Helena is a natural submissive and she craves pain with her pleasure. When she and her now-deceased husband, Shawn, experimented/played at a BDSM lifestyle, she found she enjoyed the rush. When he died, Helena was devastated and went wild, putting herself in danger by submitting to almost anyone who asked, whether she knew them or not. It’s that disregard for her own safety that nearly got her sold into slavery by Benjamin Guest, and it was only sheer luck that she was rescued. Now she’s afraid, unhappy and alone. She needs someone to help her get over the pain and fear of what happened, and to teach her how to trust again. When TK shows up on her front porch, she finds the man who she’s been looking for to help her heal.

Sweet Redemption is the 5th book in Ms. Barron’s ongoing Tygers series, and like the others this interesting story can easily stand-alone. Some of the characters from previous books appear, but that in no way hinders the enjoyment of this tale of redemption and love. There isn’t any doubt that Ms. Barron knows how to construct a well-written tale, because she shows her talent again in this intriguing fast-flowing story. Helena might be a submissive, but she’s also a feisty little hell-cat who owns a successful lingerie store. TK is a Dom through and through, but he’s also caring, loving and tender; always cognizant of his responsibilities as Helens’s teacher, lover and caretaker. On top of all that, the man’s a hunk who’s determined to heal ‘Shorty’ from the damage she experienced at the hand of the vicious Guest. She’s scared and hurting, and he’s patient and understanding, always thinking of Helena’s needs first. What’s not to like about the man? Nothing! On top of all that, the passion and chemistry between Helena and TK is blistering hot to the point of explosion. Read this one with a big glass of iced tea. You’re going to need it.

Haunting Hannah

Book Title: Haunting Hannah
Author: Viola Grace
Publisher: Extasy Books
Publisher URL: http://www.extasybooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-55487-059-2
Genre: Paranormal/Romance/Humor/Series
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

Hannah Dexter, accountant by trade, knows what she wants to do and that’s take a vacation but that just isn’t possible for her at the moment. When she figures out that she can leave her body and appear as a ghost to others, she goes seeking out Simon, who knows of her magic.

Simon of the Svart Alfar, the dark elves, has found his mate Hannah and needs to show her that he can not survive without her. Simon called Hannah on his cell phone after getting disconnected from her spirit while driving to her house only to find out that Troy (a Lios Alfar, elves of the light; who thinks he can win her over with his sex appeal) was there with her and the cause of her abrupt departure from him.

Haunting Hannah, Book 2 of Sisters of Silverwood series, was wonderful and I enjoyed reading this story. The characters were entertaining, mysterious and funny. Here we have another sister joining with the Sisters of Silverwood without too many questions and receiving more answers than expected. Viola Grace has written a beautiful story of true love among people of magic and the fact that the elves want to save both lands.

Finding Fiona

Book Title: Finding Fiona
Author: Viola Grace
Publisher: Extasy Books
Publisher URL: http://www.extasybooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-55487-085-1
Genre: Paranormal/Humor/Series/Romance
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

Fiona Blanchard is gifted with being able to find anything lost and she has used her gift to help find missing items at her job. When she decides to help find a lost child, she is stunned & kidnapped, which was not part of her plan, and waking up with two very hot naked men in a cave did not help matters. Now that she and Ander had escaped from the cave and Baenwik, they made it all the way to Silverwood to heal their wounds. Learning that she was there to help with matchmaking did not sit well with her until she reacquainted herself with the other ladies that had been chosen, too.

Ander a Svart Alfar, elves of the dark, knows that he is in trouble because he is now chained to a wall in a dark cave. After being hit over the head and chained to a wall left to wait for Fiona to be brought in by Baenwik (of the Lios Alfar, elves of the light) who thought she would choose him over Ander. Now that Fiona was with him, there was no way he was going to let her go back to the life she was living before he came into it.

Finding Fiona, Book 3 of Sisters of Silverwood series, was beautifully written and I enjoyed reading this book because it brought the sisters with powers together. Although Fiona was finding it a little difficult to adjust to using magic on a regular basis, it did not deter her from accepting the job. It was interesting that the elves of the light thought they were better than the elves of the dark and would force a woman to accept them without thinking of her feelings. Viola Grace has done it again with continuing the series of the Sisters of Silverwood and I am looking forward to the next book.

Mosaic Moon

Book Title: Mosaic Moon
Author: Jamie Craig
Publisher: Amber Heat
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberHeat
ISBN: 978-1-60272-128-9
Genre: Gay / Ménage (M/M/F) / Bisexuality (M/M) / Dark Fantasy / Vampire
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Emma Coolidge’s special gifts are no longer a hindering factor, thanks to the man training her in the fine art of controlling empathic abilities. Ethan wants more than to train Emma; he wants her love and devotion. There are two obstacles in his way, namely Jesse Madding and Gideon Keel. The dynamic duo has given Emma the hope for a future and more erotic dreams than the law should allow. Emma doesn’t see Gideon as a monster just because he has fangs; in fact he’s a potential lover. Jesse, on the other hand, is a man who holds Emma’s heart in his hands.

Black John has called in a marker from when he assisted with the Obsidian case, and it’s beyond what Jesse and Gideon could ever expect. Gideon is not overly fond of those who deal in magic, and the mage is not on the top of his list of People-I-Would-Save-From-Death, but Gideon does the honorable thing and assists.

This round they are fighting for the good of Chicago, because whoever holds the magic can either destroy the city or go with the status quo.

Mosaic Moon takes place six months after Emma is introduced to Gideon and Jesse and it’s clear that both men are infatuated. Well, to be honest, it’s definitely love on Jesse’s part. I felt sympathy for him, when he was trying to decide if drawing Emma into his relationship with Gideon was what was best for her or for him. And I’ll give Jesse credit, because he thought with the big head instead of the small one. Gideon, on the other hand, has been around so long that he sees what’s best for all parties even when it’s not clear to us mere humans. I understood Ethan’s plight, he knew he couldn’t cast a tiny shadow on the love that Emma felt for Jesse. But, his reaction surprised me when Ethan seemed to lose focus as to why he was brought to Chicago in the first place. And in my eyes, there is nothing worse than a man placing blame. If you’ve loved the series thus far, then you are in for a treat. If this is your introduction to Jesse and Gideon, I would advise you start with the first book in the series to watch the characters grow and the evolution of Gideon’s heart begin. You won’t be disappointed.

Chaos & Communion

Book Title: Chaos & Communion
Author: Jamie Craig
Publisher: Amber Allure
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/
ISBN: 978-1-60272-222-4
Genre: Gay/Dark Fantasy/Vampire/BDSM/Ménage (M/M/F)
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx


Gideon Keel and Emma Coolidge miss the free spirited man they fell in love with. For the past six months, Jesse Madding has been trying to cope after he was brutally tortured. Thanks to Michelle, they have an option to help move Jesse on the road to recovery. Gideon and Jesse will have to travel to an alternate universe to face the demons of their past. Gideon will have to face Mary, the woman credited for helping him learn to be a better vamp. Poor Jess will have to face the man who savagely abused him -- Marcus Brooker. What the two men discover in this dimension is everything isn’t quite what it seems, and the target’s not always the most likely person!

Gideon Keel is definitely hard as steel and not a vamp you want to play with. However, when it comes to the people who live in his heart, he will move heaven and earth to protect them and nurture them back to health. There is no exception to this rule when it comes to Jesse. What I appreciated most about this book is that Jesse finally meets the woman who showed Gideon love. I don’t think he expected their meeting to go as it did, but I think that helped him heal as much as facing Marcus. Emma wasn’t really in this one, but I tell you that little spit fire has picked up a few habits from her men. I really felt for Jesse and his pain this go-around. I know it was hard to move forward when every dark corner can hold something that could hurt you, but I was proud of his willingness to try and heal his own hurts. The book gives us a heady dose of action, suspense, and two Gideon’s for the price of one! Not to mention BDSM the way that only Gideon and Jesse can bring it! In addition, for those who wanted more information about Mary, you don’t want to miss this installment of the Masters Chronicles. Wonderful book, Jamie Craig!

Best Laid Plans

Book Title: Best Laid Plans
Author: Cat Kane
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books
Publisher URL: http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59578-483-4
Genre: Gay Contemporary
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Wedding coordinator Elliot Bailey has a black cloud of doom handing over his head and it doesn’t appear that he has any chance of getting out from under it, or salvaging his flagging career. He doesn’t think life could get any worse and then it does when a hawk kills a dove right in front of a screaming bride. Certain his business is finished, he’s surprised when he’s selected to coordinate the wedding of a woman whose richer-than-sin father wants a huge wedding with all the trimmings. Elliot couldn’t be happier, except for the little problem with his attraction to the hunky groom who keeps giving him the eye.

When Dylan and his “fiancée” Veronica chose Elliot as their wedding coordinator, it was for no other reason than his recent reputation for disasters. The problem is Dylan never thought he’d fail for the man and he can’t bring himself to tell Elliot the truth, despite the encouragement of Veronica. Dylan isn’t normally a coward but he’s afraid that if his lover learns the truth behind the wedding, everything will be ruined and he’ll never see Elliot again. As the weeks pass and the two men grown closer, it’s harder and harder to pretend that his wedding is nothing but a convenience. The big question is whether Elliot will understand why Dylan lied or walk away forever.

Best Laid Plans is a fun and light-hearted gay romance that’s perfect for an afternoon read. While the plot isn’t anything new, Ms. Kane has created two lovers, Elliot and Dylan, who make the book enjoyable. I thought originally that Elliot was a sad character, whose life never went as planned. He’s kind, friendly, devoted, hardworking, attractive, and his most endearing characteristic is that he likes making people happy. How can you not like this guy? I quickly found that he wasn’t sad, just prone to bad luck, and it didn’t help that he was a klutz. Dylan, on the other hand, I had to warm up too. When I realized why he and Veronica had picked Elliot, not caring how their little plot would affect him, I didn’t like him. It wasn’t until later when he came to care for Elliot and didn’t want to hurt him that I decided he wasn’t such a jerk after all, just desperate. Things get a little rocky for our lovers as the story progresses but it still gives us a lovely happily-ever-after at the end.

Captive Angels

Book Title: Captive Angels
Author: Stephani Hecht
Publisher: Extasy Books
Publisher URL: http://www.extasybooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-55487-061-5
Genre: Paranormal/Romance/Fantasy/Series
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx


Rachael is an angel, who is Abdiel’s little sister and twin to still-missing Appolion. She and Cam have almost the very same powers that they need help controlling and Abdiel provides that control for them. The fact that their parents beat and mistreated them badly kept her from opening up to her brother in the beginning. She hurts Gabi, which does not help her insecurities but with Cam’s help they’re able to heal her.

Cam is an Archangel with empath abilities who only wants to have a normal life without all the fighting. When he is captured and taken to Hell to be changed because of the part he plays in the Order of the Four, he fights the turning only to become something different all together which is part Angel and part Demon. While in Hell he learns quite a few things and that his brother’s mate is there too. Knowing that he now has more responsibilities to his fellow empathy angels only makes it harder for Cam to accept because he’s been fighting the demon in himself.

Captive Angels is a continuing story of Archangels, who protect each other and humans. This book centers around Cam, who has a host of brothers and one sister, who raised them all. With Abdiel & Gabi’s help, they are a trio to be feared by all demons and evil humans alike. Now that they know about the betrayal of the Council there will be lots to pay for because it took the lives of their family members unnecessarily. Stephani Hecht has written another wonderful book in the series that definitely has me wanting more to read. The mystery surrounding the main characters and relatives had me trying to figure out who was going to be loyal to the end and who would survive from the deceit that is going on in Heaven and Hell.

Big, Blooming & Wild! Texan Bound

Book Title: Big, Blooming & Wild! Texan Bound
Author: Dawn Montgomery
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59596-877-7
Genre: Paranormal, Sci-Fi
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amethyst Nymph


Maria decided she was no longer going to be any man’s fool. All she wanted from a man was a night of hot sex. And the man she picked was a man she did not trust. Why would he want a woman like her when he could have any woman he wanted?

There was no way Cody was going to let Maria have her one night of sex with any man that was not him. He had been watching and wanting Maria for a while and he intended to have her. Unfortunately, Maria had no idea just how long or how seriously Cody wanted her.

Big Blooming & Wild Texan Bound is a cute story with hot sex and Dawn Montgomery carved a soft spot in my heart with Cody. He was so enamored with Maria and she just couldn’t see it because of her own insecurities. Cody’s method of persuasion made me long to be Maria and wish for a tree-shifting man of my own. If you like touching love stories, this one is perfect for you.

A Helping Hand

Book Title: A Helping Hand
Author: Shayla Kersten
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.ellorascave.com/
ISBN: 9781419917387
Genre: Gay / Contemporary
Nymph Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Like many people, Deputy Sheriff Rich Taylor has secrets; his just happen to be a bit bigger than most. He’s a gay man, living in a small town and even his best friend, Dan, doesn’t know. While some people might suspect his sexual preference, it’s never been confirmed since when he needs to have his itch scratched, he drives to Memphis to see his old friend Jeremy. His problem is that he cares for Dan more than just as a friend. Rich cares for Dan as a lover, but knows he can never reveal his true feelings or risk losing both Dan and his friendship. That all changes on the night Dan is almost killed in a rollover accident.

When State Trooper Dan Fletcher swerves to avoid hitting a deer, he never imagines that his actions will change his life. Severely injured and unable to use his right hand, he’s forced to rely on Rich for the help he needs at home, and that includes help of the intimate kind. Dan has been actively looking for Miss Right for years, and he’s dated just about every eligible woman in the county. So when he starts looking at his old friend in a new light, he’s more than a little shocked and scared. It also forces him to realize that he might have been looking in the wrong direction for Miss Right for years, when what he desires has been right under his nose the entire time…his Mr. Right.

A Helping Hand is a short novel at 124 pages, but Ms. Kersten has packed a great deal of story and sizzling hot sex into its length. She’s also written a well-deserved villainous in the form of Dan’s former girlfriend, the mean and vindictive Sharon. Her actions and rumors fuel the last portion of the story, putting the lives, jobs, and reputations of both Dan and Rich in jeopardy. At the heart though, it’s a story of unrequited love of one friend for another, and how their relationship changes dramatically when Dan is severely injured on duty. Rich’s devotion to Dan is endearing and, when he discloses how he feels, heartwarming. Yet, it’s Dan’s fear of exposure that causes both men the most pain and uncertainty, and almost throws Rich into the arms of another man, forever.

Erotikos

Book Title: Erotikos
Author: Shannon Leigh
Publisher: Amber Heat
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberHeat/
ISBN: 978-1-60272-217-0
Genre: Dark Fantasy/Vampire/Interracial/Time Travel
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx


Now that Mina, Renee and Candi are finally together and ready to play the Erotikos game, there is no stopping them. Even after reading all the directions that warns them they may be taken to places unknown, they were game to play. When these ladies get together there is always some drama amongst them and they are not disappointed. Each of the ladies have vanished to the place of the characters: a Selkie, an Indian and a vampire to match each lady’s personality.

Erotikos is a story of intrigue, mystery and a fantasy that will come true if you believe in the game board. For the simple fact that these ladies were wanting so much even before the game said they were having problems in the men department. Each one was into something different and wanted a fantasy that went along with their needs. Shannon Leigh writes of darkness, legends and danger for each of the characters. This was a wonderful book that had me wanting to find a game with the same mysterious characters.

Blood In The Water

Book Title: Blood In The Water
Author: Eric Del Carlo
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.net/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-748-1
Genre: LGBT Science Fiction/Fantasy
Nymph Rating: 5 nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Woodland Nymph

Having survived the Hunt of Nine and escaping from the undercity, our heroes Nickerson and BlaqJaq find themselves on a black market transport sans Nickerson’s palmchip. When an unexpected run in with a hardened female jail rat gets them thrown off the airtruck they find themselves near a stream in an unknown and unpopulated area of wild lush greenery. For BlaqJaq, the sights and sounds are amazing; things he never could have imagined while living in the undercity.

After spending some time enjoying their surroundings and each other, they decide to be adventurous and follow the stream to wherever it may lead. It’s not long though before trouble finds them and BlaqJaq discovers a heretofore unknown fear of drowning. Yet after commandeering a boat and with a little help from Nickerson, BlaqJaq finds he enjoys driving one. They meet many new faces on the river and follow several other boats to New New Orleans for Carnival. Shortly after arriving, Nickerson suggests they enter the physically violent competition called Carnival when he learns they could win their way off the rock known as Earth and travel freely to the many colonies Nickerson had once worked to keep unspoiled and BlaqJaq now anxiously wants to see.

Blood In The Water, the sequel to Steel Sleet, is a fantastic non-stop thrill ride from beginning to end. The loving relationship between Nickerson and BlaqJaq continues to grow as each man realizes how important the other is to their happiness and admit their love to each other. Eric Del Carlo had me enthralled in their continuing story set in this futuristic world which is filled with non-stop action and several heart stopping moments as I was happily cheering for the former assassin and his younger lover the entire time. There are also plenty of passionate, sensual and sexy scenes between Nickerson and BlaqJaq as well as a heartfelt moment regarding old New Orleans.

This book has it all, love, sex, passion, fun, action, adventure and danger so by the end this reviewer was left hoping for more stories and more adventures of the catjob and the streetmuscle. So whether you’re a fan of the m/m genre, science fiction or action adventure do yourself a favor and do not miss this book.

Eclipse of the Heart 2: Here Comes the Sun

Book Title: Eclipse of the Heart 2: Here Comes the Sun
Author: Emily Veinglory
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.net/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-759-7
Genre: LGBT Werewolf Paranormal
Nymph Rating: 3 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Chocolate Minx

It was getting close to the end of his shift at the Greyfriars Bar when Mason noticed this guy giving him a belligerent stare. Mason guessed the guy was werefolk. Since his boyfriend Lan revealed to him that he was a werewolf, Mason had become more aware of werefolk and how they did not trust humans. But Mason discovers he is not alone. There is another human who comes to his rescue during several attacks; one from the werewolves and one from the guy who wants Lan.

Eclipse of the Heart 2: Here Comes the Sun is the sequel to Eclipse of the Heart. This is Mason’s story of his struggles to find his place in a town inhabited by werefolk. Mason loves Lan, but even their relationship is strained by the hostile environment and their opposite work schedules. Mason is a human alpha who realizes he must take a stand with his enemies. Emily Veinglory produced an interesting and creative story illustrating prejudice and the lack of trust. I found this to be a very enjoyable story.

Seduction In Black And White

Book Title: Seduction In Black And White
Author: Jamie Craig
Publisher: Amber Quill
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberHeat
ISBN: 978-1-60272-162-3
Genre: Gay/Ménage/Bisexuality/Dark Fantasy/Vampire/BDSM
Nymph Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Jesse Madding has finally done the impossible; he has gotten Gideon Keel, a true workaholic vampire if you’ve ever read about one, to take a vacation. Their three-week trip to New York starts out with passion-filled dungeon play. The past isn’t something you can hide from, and Gideon’s past has come knocking in the form of Marcus Brooker. Marcus is a painful blast from the past who doesn’t want to just share Gideon’s secrets with Jesse. Revenge is a dish best served cold, and after forty years, Marcus is ready to give Gideon an extra serving.

If you’ve followed this series from the very first book, you will remember Marcus Brooker from At The Advent Of Dusk. Who knew a mild manned pastor could change so much. There were a few points in the story that Jesse truly frustrated me. While I understand his need to know Gideon’s past, and his hurt of Gideon’s reluctance and refusal to share, I didn’t approve of his means of getting the information. I knew when he spoke to Marcus, there would be nothing but pain and suffering delivered. I will admit that I was beyond proud of Gideon for his determination and grace while handling the conflict. In addition, Emma has proven that these two powerful men are rubbing off on her. She was no weakling from the beginning, but she had a great deal of grit this time around. Seduction In Black And White (Book IV of The Master Chronicles) is a wonderful addition to the series.

Peck of Pickles

Book Title: Peck of Pickles
Author: Lena Austin
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60521-062-9
Genre: Gay Ménage
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Chocolate Minx

In small town Epping North Dakota, farmer Linc Hallberg is taking his bumper crop of cucumbers to the county extension office to use their pickling facilities. Linc is very attracted to the office’s agent Pol Backstrom but dare not reveal that secret. Shortly after Linc’s arrival, a friend of Pol’s and a scientist, Marc O’Neil walks in. Testing his hopeful speculation, Pol kisses Linc, finding no rebuff to his advances; the three men rise to the next level, immediately finding a new use for the facility’s pickling tables.

Peck of Pickles is a fantastic story of gay men in small town America. Linc and Pol were afraid to reveal their nature until Marc came to town with a business proposal to benefit all three and justify their closeness to the small minds of the people living around them. As always, the gifted Lena Austin peppers the story with witty comments, but also takes a direct hit at the real issues people must deal with. I enjoyed this amazing story immensely and would love to visit these characters again in the near future.

Still Waters

Book Title: Still Waters
Author: Kate Johnson
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 1-59998-944-1
Genre: Chick Lit/Mystery-Suspense
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx


The bungling spy Sophie Green is now unemployed and on her way to a short vacation with three others she worked with. She was determined to put Luke completely out of her system and now they are thrown together for employee-bonding time. What the other three don’t know is that Sophie is no longer an employee of SO17 and when they find out, tempers flare.

Luke Sharpe is angry with Sophie for leaving him in a bad situation but wants more from her for their relationship. Now that they are away from everything pertaining to work and personal lives, they try to enjoy the time they have to relax. His reaction to Sophie being injured surprises her and leads up to her telling him quite a few things she had kept from him.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Still Waters! Talk about being entertained throughout an entire story that kept me wanting to laugh, cry and be angry with Sophie Green and her curiosity that kept getting her into situations beyond her control. Each person enhanced the other and brought something more to the story.

Kate Johnson writes beautifully of mystery and suspense. I found this story very interesting because it was Sophie (whom I love) telling her story as she sees it and it made it more believable to read. All the hot sex, attempts at murdering Sophie and murders left you sometimes totally confused or laughing at her attempts to be herself. This series was so wonderful that those that love a good mystery would enjoy it.

Tie 'Em Up, Hold 'Em Down

Book Title: Tie 'Em Up, Hold 'Em Down
Author: Carolina Valdez
Publisher: Amber Quill
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/
ISBN: 978-1-60272-343-6
Genre: Gay/Contemporary/BDSM (Light)/Voyeurism
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

While the world’s view of same-sex love is changing, it’s still a challenge to be manly and a gay firefighter. Robert “Bear” Barrington is more than aware of some fellow team member’s views on homosexuality, and has worked too hard on his career to slip up and show where his heart really lies. That is, until he comes face to face with Dane Garrison. Dane is a walking dreamboat and creates a drive of lust that has Bear hoping he can control his wet dreams.

They have similar interests and desires, making it hard for Bear to escape from Dane’s potent presence and the charge from performing their jobs will add extra stimulation to their mutual attraction. Will Dane find a way to break down the barrier Bear has erected, or will their love fall to the wayside because of fear?

Carolina Valdez’s Tie ‘Em Up, Hold ‘Em Down reminds us that while sexual preference is more open and accepted by today’s society, there are still some realms that have strong convictions about homosexuality. To look at Dane and Bear you would not know their choice. Both men are strong, determined, and a force to be reckoned with in their own way. I loved watching Bear tiptoe his way through his love for Dane. It was clear he felt a great deal for the other man but he worked too hard to damage his career. Dane, on the other hand, knew what he wanted and didn’t plan on taking no for the final answer. I loved his drive to gain the man he loved. I loved the scenes where you watched these two characters do what they do best, and I’m talking about their paying gigs. Even though their encounters were hot enough to make a groundhog swear winter was ending early. Action, male-male loving and a touch of BDSM is served up with a fire hose and engine in Tie ‘Em Up, Hold ‘Em Down.

Angelic Desires

Book Title: Angelic Desires
Author: Stephani Hecht
Publisher: Extasy Books
Publisher URL: http://www.extasybooks.com/
ISBN: No Number
Genre: Paranormal/Romance/Series
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx


Cadean thinks she is able to get any job done because she is a bounty hunter and harpy by birth. Now that she has him in her clutches, there is nothing that will stop her from delivering Appolion to his parents except for the lust she has for him. She wants him very badly and gets her wish, but then realizes she has failed as a hunter.

Appolion is an angel that grew up in Hell and does not want to go back there. Hiding out in a city working as a police officer helping humans was what he was doing until Cadean found him. After he tied her up to the same chair she had tied him to, he left her there calling for help.

Angelic Desires, which is Book 2 of the Archangel Series, was very entertaining to read and I enjoyed every moment. These two characters knew each other as children growing up in a place that was full of deceit and deceptions. Stephani Hecht has written a beautiful series about angels who want to survive and help humans and will do whatever it takes to see that they exist.

The Sweetest Tattoo

Book Title: The Sweetest Tattoo
Author: Cameron Dane
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books
Publisher URL: http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59578-477-3
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Kelsie Cole is a talented tattoo artist who is ready to kill her twin brother, Gray. She works hard running her successful tattoo parlor and plans to spend a week relaxing at his mountain cabin. So when his best friend and her arch nemesis, John McBride, arrives for his own week-long vacation, her peace of mind is shattered. They’ve known each other since childhood, and she’s butted heads with the irritating and annoying man at every turn. Even though she cares for the man deeply, she doesn’t feel John does anything but look down his straight-laced nose at her, her business and the way she looks. What she doesn’t know is that John wants her as much as she wants him. Can they share a two-bedroom cabin without testing their mutual attraction? I don’t think so!

Cameron Dane has come up with another winning story with her newest novella, The Sweetest Tattoo. On the surface, John appears to be everything Kelsie isn’t; calm, quiet, straight-laced, and able to fit in easily with high-rolling corporate businessmen and women. She, on the other hand, tends to be loud, outspoken, and given to a little attitude. Then there’s the little fact of her near six-foot height, pink hair, body piercings, and numerous tattoos to deal with. No matter how hard she tries, Kelsie doesn’t see how she could ever fit into John’s world, and she’s afraid to try. Her fear of rejection is very well done, as is John’s determination to not allow Kelsie’s fear and uncertainty to stand in the way of their happiness. He just needs to find a way to convince her, and he does it the only way he can without scaring her away…one day at a time; each one filled with caring, tenderness, companionship and blistering hot sex.

A is for Apple

Book Title: A is for Apple
Author: Kate Johnson
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 1-59998-605-1
Genre: Chick Lit/Mystery-Suspense
Nymph Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx


Sophie Green is a bumbling spy who wants to do well at her job but is having issues regarding a co-worker, who is also her lover. Now that she has her assignment, which she grudgily accepts after coming off a short vacation, she is on her way to New York City to meet up with the target. When she finally figures out how she really feels about Luke, it creates more complications for them.

Luke Sharpe, posing as airport security, but is really a spy along with Sophie, who is the love of his life. The fact that he can’t seem to let her do anything on her own speaks loudly of his affections for her and he clearly does not want to see her hurt by anyone.

A is for Apple was a wonderful story! Even with Sophie stumbling through everything going on around her and the mixed feelings for Luke never stopped her from getting the job done. These characters were very different from each other and you are kept wondering from beginning to end what was really going on with them. When the time came for Sophie to make a choice she was able to but not without feelings that were beyond her.

Kate Johnson has done a fabulous job writing about espionage, school days and family. I was very surprised by a lot of the characters comments made by some of the people in the book and it kept me laughing out loud. This was the third book in the Sophie Green Mysteries.

And the Two Shall Become One

Book Title: And the Two Shall Become One
Author: Mychael Black and Shayne Carmichael
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-449-6
Genre: Gay Erotic Romance, Paranormal
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Having failed to take control of the Romanorum using his rogue vampires and losing his favorite daughter Selena, Memnet summons the powerful demon Zalael from the Abyss to extract his revenge. While plots to kills him are in the works, Mael is at home with his hands full. He announces to his court that Cian is his consort, a new and improved Selena comes back under the protection of Archangel Michael, Mael discovers that Brandon and Cornelius are lovers and there is a traitor in his court.

And the Two Shall Become One is the sequel to The Prince’s Angel and what a sequel it is. You have enraged plotting vampires, demons with a score to settle, depressed lovers, trust issues and non-stop drama, plus some very hot love scenes to get your blood pumping in another direction. Mael has a plate full of trouble and dissention; good thing he has the love of Cian to soothe him. The incredible team of Mychael Black and Shayne Carmichael continue to deliver well written plots with emotional and sensual characters in these amazing episodes of this extraordinary series, Legends of the Romanorum / Inferi Brotherhood.

No Fear In Love

Book Title: No Fear In Love
Author: Jamie Craig
Publisher: Samhain
Publisher URL: http://samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 1-60504-202-1
Genre: Gay-Lesbian Romance
Nymph Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Woodland Nymph

Weston Scott first realized he wanted to kiss his best friend Mark at the tender age of fourteen. Never feeling that he really fit in anywhere, Weston dedicated his life to his faith. Yet when Mark left their village to move to London, Weston couldn’t help but feel hurt and more alone than ever.

Mark Goudy has been in love with Weston for half his life but didn’t want to lose his best friend’s trust so he never told him how he felt. On his latest visit though, Mark is determined to show Weston just how happy they could be together.

No Fear In Love is a wonderfully romantic tale of friendship and love between two long time friends. Jamie Craig has broached (what some may consider) a sensitive subject and as a result has written an emotionally moving, sexy and heartfelt love story for a pair of memorable characters. As I don’t want to reveal too much of the story I will conclude my review by saying I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an honest-to-goodness love story.

SIBLING SURVIVALRY: Them MacCadáin Girls & Those Francisco Stiùbhart Boys

Book Title: SIBLING SURVIVALRY: Them MacCadáin Girls & Those Francisco Stiùbhart Boys
Author: Jeanie Johnson and Jayha Leigh
Publisher: LuLu
Publisher URL: http://www.lulu.com/
ISBN: 978-1-4357-5274-0
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Nymph Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx


Coinneach and Eòghan Stiùbhart had no designs on being immortal, or for that matter living for over two hundred years, but fate had plans for the brothers. Abeni and Tinashe Harper- MacCadáin come from a family with deep roots in the south, and an even more deeply rooted “kick butt and ask questions later” mentality. Both sets of siblings have fine tuned the art of ticking each other off, but you better not cross one of them because there will surely be hell to pay. A Scotland vacation has brought the four together and no one is ready for the fireworks. It’s about to be a battle for love that Coinneach and Eòghan plan to win.

SIBLING SURVIVALRY: Them MacCadáin Girls & Those Francisco Stiùbhart Boys is a story like none other. First, let’s take into account that Coinneach and Eòghan are immortal and from their description every tall woman’s fantasy. That in itself is worth a read or two. Secondly, Abeni and Tinashe are strong women who don’t take excuses or prisoners. A delicate balance of intelligence and beauty propel the sisters beyond the simple realm of the norm, and have them registering as keepers in any man’s eyes. There was a great deal of witty satire, but if I see the words “sully bastard” anytime soon, I may scream. While the sister’s situations and dialogue was hilarious and kept my attention, being privy to each person’s complete view on a situation made me lose focus. And I have yet to figure out how they travel with their “weapons” without causing an international incident, but I’m sure the training they received from their father was a great deal of help. The story as a whole was entertaining, but reading each person’s take left my eyes a bit glazed over at times.

Dare To

Book Title: Dare To
Author: AKM Miles
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerepress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-316-1
Genre: Gay Contemporary
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Dare Wilson is a licensed counselor, and he works with troubled children and teens. It’s during the time his estranged mother is dying of cancer that he meets Ryan Spencer’s frightened young nephew, JC, whose mother has just died. It’s while Dare’s comforting the distressed JC that Ryan meets Dare, who finds that not only does he want to help the child, but the uncle, too. The chemistry between the men is instantaneous, but both realize the time isn’t right to pursue the attraction. Just before returning to his mother’s hospital room, Dare hands over his business card, in hopes Ryan will call him when the time is right.

Being a father to his nephew isn’t anything Ryan ever expected, but he loves JC, and willingly moves the boy into his home. Even though he met Dare during a painful time, he still wants to get acquainted with the handsome counselor whom his nephew is crazy about. It’s not long after they start dating that the men are exclusive, their emotions firmly committed to each other. Yet, not all is smooth in their relationship, and the disruption comes from outside their little group of three. There’s an endangered young mother living next to Ryan and JC, and it’s not long before Ryan and Dare are involved in keeping her and her young son safe from her abusive ex-lover.

Dare To is an emotional gay romance revolving around two men who, on the surface, have very little in common. Dare works in an office, dealing with children in need, and Ryan is the owner of a construction company. Yet, deep down, they want the same things…a home, a partner and a family, but the center of all their thoughts and concerns is always young JC. The emotions and physical intimacy between Dare and Ryan are blistering hot, passionate and tender, but little JC steals the show every time. He’s loving, tender and caring, and his sweet attempts at matchmaking are nothing less than hilarious, and, all too often, shocking to the male adults in his life.

The conflict in this lovely tale comes from the outside, in the form of an abused female neighbor and her son, who Dare and Ryan befriend. Dare isn’t a gung-ho kind of guy, but he can’t seem to stay out of trouble, which only gets his name in the papers, generating still more trouble. And for a likeable and kind-hearted man, he still has a few enemies who are jealous of his success and new notoriety. The men are perfect for each other, and with JC, they make the family they both want and need. This sweet and tender tale is definitely a feel good read I think you’ll enjoy. Give it a try.