Defying the Moon

Title: Defying the Moon
Author: Cheryl Dragon
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/
ISBN: 9781419920059
Genre: Shapeshifter, M/M
Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Calls for neighborhood animal issues are part of the job for Ed Zachary. He loves working for Chicago’s Animal Control, since caring for animals comes as second nature to the kindhearted man. The latest call has him facing the one man who haunts his dreams, Chicago Police Detective Brian Blake. The only problem is, he’s not a man when he encounters him this time around, but a werewolf.

Brian couldn’t understand his loss of time and memory, but hearing Ed’s explanation and then seeing proof takes him by storm. He can’t believe his life has taken such a spin but thanks to the help of Ed, it’s easier to cope. While Ed has been harboring feelings for Brian, Brian has tried to control his own attraction to the gentle natured man. This new dilemma puts them in close proximity, and could be just the nudge needed to allow Brian to let down his defenses and accept a future with Ed.

Brian and Ed both have baggage that could affect a possible relationship. Brian’s past coupled with his becoming a werewolf has him more than skittish about turning his heart over to Ed. Ed wants a family and is too old to accept less than forever. While I love Defying the Moon’s concept, some aspects were less than believable. A werewolf placing himself in a position to have his secret discovered seemed a bit farfetched, when their goal has always been secrecy. I couldn’t wrap my mind around that portion of the story, or understand how they would avoid mayhem. Brian and Ed’s relationship was a rollercoaster ride, and fortunately, Ed figured out the controls before it was too late. Defying the Moon is the prequel to Outsmarting the Moon, and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s in store for Brian’s sister Laura.

Outsmarting the Moon

Title: Outsmarting the Moon
Author: Cheryl Dragon
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/
ISBN: 9781419914669
Genre: Shapeshifter
Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Zoologist Laura Blake saw Charlie Hiller and instantly knew what was missing from her life. Love was the last thing she thought she would find, since her strength lie in talking with colleagues and taking care of animals, not in attracting the opposite sex. However, something about Charlie called to her, even though she knew that he was a werewolf.

Chef Charlie Hiller has been battling being a werewolf for two years. He’s distanced himself from intimate relationships and attempted to ensure the safety of those around him. Laura’s smell arouses him and he wants to know the woman with the captivating scent.

When Charlie comes face to face with Laura, and hears her promise for a cure, he knows he has nothing to lose. He didn’t expect to fall for her, or to want forever, but can he have that even if her antidote doesn’t work?

Laura and Charlie have a passion that went from zero to sixty in ten seconds flat. There was no moving gently into sex for this couple. Charlie is a good man who was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Laura is brilliant, cute, loveable, and eager to help those who are suffering as her brother did. They are definitely a good match for one another. While the sex was steamy, the plot wasn’t as developed as I would have liked, but the story was still enjoyable to read.

The Right Side of the Tracks

Title: The Right Side of the Tracks
Author: Jaxx Steele
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-935192-78-7
Genre: M/M Contemporary Romance
Rating: 3 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

One night of drunken revelry changes the life of Russell Drake forever; when several weeks later the gay man discovers the stripper he had sex with is pregnant. Determined to provide his child with a stable home, Russell gets married, disappearing from the lives of his family, and lover, James. Nothing is more important than his child…not even his own happiness. Things change again a few months later after a devastating accident, and Russell finds himself free to pursue his own happiness. The question is whether James is willing to give Russ another chance at love.

The Right Side of the Tracks is a charming story of what can happen when a wrong decision affects a person’s life, long-term. I applauded Russell’s determination to be part of his child’s life, but I’m not certain why he felt he needed to cut himself off from his family to do it. I just found it odd that Russell didn’t speak to them in nearly three years, when he could have used their support and understanding. Russell’s acceptance back into the family fold by his mother and sister was far too smooth and easy. Their Pollyanna reaction I found unrealistic, no matter how happy they were for him to be home with his child.

The same goes for James, who loved Russell, and lost him without an explanation. James was everything a lover should be; tender, kind, caring and forgiving when Russell walked back into his life, but there were no harsh words, not even one. Still the relationship between James and Russell, and Russell’s struggle to maintain custody of his child makes this story of love and forgiveness a pleasure to read. This story may have its faults, but it still leaves the reader with hope, and the happily-ever-after these two men deserve.

Eternity

Title: Eternity
Author: Darcy Abriel
Publisher: Amber Allure
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure
ISBN: 9781602724938
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Vampire, BDSM, Ménage [M/M/F], Bisexual [M/M]
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Virgin Nymph

Maximilian Wolffe has one thing on his mind and her name is Lena Hoffenstein. His mission was to take back what was rightfully his. Lena and Max had a hot, hard, and lustful relationship. Lena even thought it could be love but Max would never speak of it. He continued to fill Lena up with an unquenchable passion that she would never forget. That was when they first met!

Lena and Max lived life to the fullest, until a threat from Max’s past came to threaten the future Max had built with Lena. Max, regardless of his feelings for Lena, left alone to face the danger head on in hopes of saving Lena from death.

Lena learned to survive without Max in her life, but the passion she shared with him, she would never have again until she met Dr. Erik Rand. Lena knew he would serve her until his last breath. With Erik, she felt something stir in her that had been long forgotten, companionship, and maybe a chance at love.

I liked this story because, even though Max had to leave his only love to destroy his enemy, he knew his love still burned hot for Lena. Lena felt the same way, but she still felt pain and sadness in her heart for Max leaving her, and not knowing if he was dead or alive. She would have done anything for her sire. This story travels back in time and brings you forward to show why Max must have Lena and her incredible doctor. I would have liked to have seen more of Lena and Erik. In the end, Eternity is what Max wanted with Lena.

The Other Side

Title: The Other Side
Author: Shawn Lane
Publisher: Amber Allure
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/
ISBN: 978-1-60272-469-3
Genre: Contemporary, Inter-racial, Gay [M/M]
Rating: 2.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Satyr Vael

Detective Nick Sorenson is heading a case of a black man’s beating at the hands of police officers when the man’s brother, Ray Carmichael, a doctor and budding politician, hounds the cops for information. Nick does his best to fend off the man, but his attraction to Ray Carmichael causes him to overstep possible ethical bounds.

When Nick is taken off the case, he and Ray try their hands at a relationship, but troubles persist -- from Ray’s intense distrust and dislike of police officers and his family’s equally judgmental views, to Nick’s worries of his rough childhood and the lower income level he and his family are on.

Can these two very different men, from horribly different backgrounds, find some sort of common ground? Or will they let prejudice from every angle defeat them?

The Other Side is full of mixed signals, hot men, and hot sex. Ray and Nick couldn’t be any more different from each other. Yet sometimes, that’s what works: opposites attract.

I wanted to really like this book, and while it was well-written, the overall story left me somewhat unfulfilled. The sex was hot, don’t get me wrong, but after a while, it just wasn’t enough to keep the story interesting for me. Part of the problem I had was the lack of resolution at the end. I really wanted to know more about how things panned out, primarily with Nick’s job.

Nick and Ray were good guys, good characters, but I feel the shining star in this story was someone we didn’t see much of until the end: Ray’s brother Devon. His initial reaction to Nick was completely understandable, but his subsequent actions just made me love him more than Nick or Ray.

I wouldn’t say it’s Shawn Lane’s best, but it’s well done. If you’re on the lookout for a book without a whole lot of depth but with some good hot sex and men, The Other Side is a good bet.

The Shape Of A Heart

Title: The Shape Of A Heart
Author: Kimberly Gardner
Publisher: Aspen Mountain Press
Publisher URL: http://www.aspenmountainpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60168-193-5
Genre: Contemporary M/M
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Rose Nymph

Ever since the loss of his lover Jay, Zach’s been busying himself with running “Bean Readin’” with Jay’s sister, Rhonna. He and Jay may have once run the book store/coffee shop as a team, but the work still offers Zach a much-needed distraction from his heartache. However, when new employee Keith shows up for his first day of work, feelings are stirred that just can’t be ignored. It seems Zach may finally be able to face his past but it’s apparent that Keith has secrets of his own and now both men have to decide what’s most important to them.

The Shape Of A Heart is a very enjoyable read that highlights the conflicting emotions caused by the death of a partner and the introduction of someone new. I think the characters were spot on as Zach’s behavior makes it obvious that he’s confused about his feelings and still bears the brunt of a broken heart. Keith shows patience but also confusion and a little hurt as the inevitable misunderstandings from lack of honest communication threaten their budding relationship. The heat between the two is palpable and although the strong hints of dominance and submission surprised me personally, it was held back just enough to not push my boundaries.

The plot runs smoothly, giving us insight into both characters but I would have liked more information on their pasts. It would have been nice to learn more about Jay. I think there are teasers as to how Jay was taken away from Zach but it was never really clarified. Also, a little more time invested into Keith’s secrets would have given added validity to what happens in this story. That being said, this is all about finding the strength to carry on after all seems lost; about remembering the past but not getting stuck there; about looking to the future. For that, I can’t really criticize for the small gaps in the history of these two men. I highly recommend fans of the genre check The Shape Of A Heart out.

A Fine Cure from Fennel Seed

Title: A Fine Cure from Fennel Seed
Author: Lucius Parhelion
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-607-0
Genre: Gay Erotic Romance, Historical, M/M
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Spencer’s move from Vermont to Greenwich Village was a good choice. His job as a night shift druggist is a rewarding career. His friendship with old schoolmate Leo is pleasant and soon provides a few rewards he never anticipated. When Leo shows up for help, Spencer believes he understands what he needs to cure what ails him. There’s a mix-up in the translation, and before it’s corrected Leo shows Spencer A Fine Cure from Fennel Seed.

The setting for this story is 1932, a time where homosexuality was still a criminal offense, and the United States was going through an economic change. Spencer knew he had an attraction to Leo, but not a clue of how deep it really went. Leo has wanted Spencer for too long, but refused to cross the line of friendship without some indication that Spencer was prepared to experience ecstasy. While their first encounter showed Spencer’s innocence, it also gave a glimpse of passion and the depth of Leo’s caring for his friend. The supporting cast takes some of the weight off the couple to entertain us, and allows a few moments of laughter and light-hearted banter. I’m not sure if there will be a sequel, but I’ll be the first in line ready to read what Spencer and Leo have decided to do about their new level of friendship.

Many Roads Home

Title: Many Roads Home
Author: Ann Somerville
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: http://www.samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60504-497-2
Genre: Sci-Fi Futuristic, M/M
Rating: 3 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Yveni is heir to the Duchy of Sardelsa and fleeing for his life disguised as a trader’s son. Yveni’s future brother-in-law is determined to take over the country before Yveni can reach legal age. However, before Yveni can reach his destined safe harbor, he is captured and sold as a slave. Former slave and now a freeman with property left to him by his last master, Paole buys Yveni, and over a period of time, Yveni and Paole’s companionship grows into love.

Many Roads Home is the story of Yveni and the people he meets. At each milestone along the way, he gains knowledge of the different cultures and the extreme dislikes they suffer. Ann Somerville has created an interesting and enjoyable saga interwoven with a stroke of realism.

Wanted Dead or Alive

Title: Wanted Dead or Alive
Author: Jamie Hill
Publisher: Phaze Books
Publisher URL: http://www.phaze.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60659-144-4
Genre: M/M Contemporary
Rating: 3 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Eight years ago, Dan Radisson made a stupid decision resulting in his incarceration at Corcoran State Prison. Now, he’s out on parole and trying to put his life back together, except he’s finding it much harder than expected. Dan loves his older sister and is thankful he can live in the spare bedroom, but he’s uncomfortable with her cop husband, who clearly doesn’t like him. To make matters worse, Dan hates the daily AA meetings he must attend. He needs to find a job, and he could really use a little relief from his growing sexual frustration.

After becoming acquainted with Trey at an AA meeting, it looks like Dan has found the man he needs to take the edge off his frustration, except his chosen bedmate isn’t certain the newly released Dan is ready for a type of sexual relationship he wants and needs. It’s not long before Dan stumbles across a murder, and he stupidly makes the same wrong decision as before. He runs from the scene, and he suddenly finds himself wanted by the police; only this time he has a stubborn Trey in tow.

Wanted Dead or Alive is the first release in the new Slippery When Wet series and this story is by author Jamie Hill. The theme for this story had a lot of potential, but the short length really didn’t allow enough time for the plot or the characters to become fully developed. As a fresh out of prison ex-con, Dan starts the story lacking the confidence he needs to function on the outside, but that quickly and unrealistically changes as soon as he meets and hooks up with the friendly and sexy Trey. The characters of Dan’s sister and cop brother-in-law were as expected, supportive and unfriendly, respectively.

I actually liked Dan and Trey together, and the guys did have blistering hot sex, but I knew so little about Trey that I didn’t really understand what kept them together. This was especially true of Trey and why he was so willing to dump everything in his life to run with Dan from the police. Then there’s the complicated set-up of Dan for murder, but the perpetrator was a thug; a man who didn’t seem capable of putting such a plot together.

I liked the ending and it’s happily-ever-after, even if the culmination rescue scene wasn’t very plausible. Still, even with its faults, the story was enjoyable for a quick afternoon read.

An Inconvenient Hankering

Title: An Inconvenient Hankering
Author: Sienna Bishop
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-935192-77-0
Genre: M/M Contemporary Romance
Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Friendships made in high school often last the longest, which is what Hank and Sam discover when they met as high school juniors. Nearly inseparable, the best friends do everything together; even wind-up as roommates while in college. It’s during these years that Sam learns he’s not as straight as he always thought when he makes the shocking discovery he’s in love with his best friend. By the time college graduation rolls around, Sam knows he has to get away from Hank and he takes a job in Denver, which gives him the time and space he needs to figure out his life.

It takes three years for Sam to decide staying away from Hank isn’t the answer to his problem, and it’s only made him lonely for his family and friends. Transferring back home fixes one problem, but it also gives him another he never expected when Hank offers, then insists, they move in together. Against his better judgment, Sam agrees and he immediately begins to regret his decision, when he’s forced to guard every move and action.

An Inconvenient Hankering is a sweet, if short story, of two childhood friends and the years it takes them to discover their mutual love. While the tale of a gay man, Sam, trying to hide the love he feels for his straight friend, Hank, is realistic in today’s world, the story was a little too pat and clichéd. And in the midst of Sam’s uncertainty of what to do, I was tempted more than once to yell, “Tell him, for God’s sake.” Sam and Hank are a little too perfect for my taste, but the story left me with a pleasant warm and fuzzy feeling at the end. I just wish we could have seen some of the story from Hank’s viewpoint.

A Dream Come True

Title: A Dream Come True
Author: Addison Albright
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-638-4
Genre: Gay, Contemporary, M/M
Rating: 2 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Caen Nymph

Mike is looking for a roommate so when his crush Wes ends up his doorstep, things couldn’t get better. Wes is a medical intern and looking for a place near where he work – and a roommate that doesn’t mind his sexual preference. Luckily, Wes hits the jackpot with Mike.

Mike wants Wes, but Wes doesn’t even realise Mike is gay. However, that doesn’t stop Mike from getting what he wants – Wes and his carefree lifestyle. With Wes’s out and proud of it nature and Mike’s closeted lifestyle, will these two be able to defeat the obstacles that come their way?

A Dream Come True, from the title alone, tells you this is going to be a fuss-free zone. The author has written a very nice and sweet tale about two young men falling in love – and being accepted by their families. Nothing is wrong with that and even I am prone to read some angst-free and fun stories. However, this story was just too bland for my tastes. The character of Mike just didn’t appeal to me. I’ve read a lot of stories where the main hero is in the closet but Mike had to be the oddest one I’ve ever read. In one scene he just blurts out that he’s gay to his brother. For a character who has been in turmoil about telling his family – it’s just odd that he would do it in that fashion. Mike, like Wes was pretty one dimensional, and I’ll struggle to remember these characters in a week’s time.

The writing was pretty simple and the dialogue did get overly cheesy at times, especially during the sex scenes. In the end, A Dream Come True was not for me; I liked the idea that the author wanted to portray a nice world where two people fell in love and were accepted. For me, it just didn’t come together and ended up being too lacklustre, but that is not to say this premise would not work for anyone else who reads gay fiction.

Bunny Tails: Splitting Hares

Title: Bunny Tails: Splitting Hares
Author: Camille Anthony
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60521-215-9
Genre: Paranormal, Action/Adventure
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amethyst Nymph

What’s a girl to do when she’s running late to an appointment with the Alpha of the pack, yet she can’t do a thing with her unruly hair? Ouida finds herself in a sticky situation when she accidentally insults her mate and his entire pack. Now she must submit to pack law or face death.

If Vance hadn’t been sidetracked by one more romp with Ouida before presenting her to his pack, this situation wouldn’t have become such a mess. Now Vance must let his lieutenants sample Ouida’s goodies if he wants another chance to mate with her. Ouida’s fate might be temporarily beyond his control, but fortunately her pleasure is not.

Usually it takes two to Tango, but this time it takes six in Bunny Tails: Splitting Hares. Ouida stepped up to the plate, even when she thought for sure she’d be served on it. Her willingness to do anything for Vance is what makes Ouida likeable. I bet this couple has more future heated adventures while Ouida adapts to pack rules, and I’ll be waiting to read all about them.

Pitch Dark

Title: Pitch Dark
Author: Brooke London
Publisher: Cerridwen Press
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/
ISBN: 9781419919282
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amazon Nymph

Alyssa has been sent by her grandfather to Colorado to help him set up a partnership with Connor. Before she leaves for Colorado, she notices some irregularities with her grandfather’s computers.

Connor doesn’t know why Douglas sent his granddaughter to Colorado. He knows the partnership is good for both of them, but ends up realizing that Alyssa is smart and knows her business.

Alyssa and Connor are almost run off the road and later, other incidents start happening, including her grandfather’s offices being bombed and his disappearance. Alyssa and Connor must find her grandfather and stay alive amid all the threats from several governments and terrorists.

Pitch Dark is a good suspense story. I felt it started a little slow but picked up about halfway through to the point that I did not want to put it down. Connor and Alyssa’s relationship is in a constant state of flux and I thought Alyssa was a little cruel to Connor. I enjoyed reading the story.

Furtive Liaison

Title: Furtive Liaison
Author: Amanda Young
Publisher: Amber Allure
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure
ISBN: 978-1-60272-473-0
Genre: Gay, Contemporary, M/M
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Shawn Delaney doesn’t have room in his life for love and a commitment. Nope, all he wants is a quick encounter and the memories for later entertainment. But, when he meets Marc Wright at an adult bookstore, he’s rocked by their chemistry and it leads to Shawn contemplating having more than a one night stand. Marc has his own reasons for not wanting things to progress, but something about Shawn calls to him. There’s more than meets the eye when it comes to Marc and Shawn wants to know what’s really going on. Will it strengthen their relationship or throw the two men apart forever?

In Furtive Liaison, Amanda Young writes about love, commitment and the extents we go to for love. Marc has a passion that throws Shawn’s libido into overdrive. Determined to leave love to others, Shawn has refused to think beyond a few nights of desire, but Marc changes that with his kind heart. His feelings for Marc made it impossible to let this be another one hit wonder, even if he wasn’t ready to admit it. I could see both men’s sides clearly, when the truth was revealed, and found it hard to actually take either man’s side over the other. People have to make hard decisions in life, but it’s always better when you have a support system. I plan to read this book again in the near future.

Reunion: The Six of Wands

Title: Reunion: The Six of Wands

Author: Vic Winter

Publisher: Torquere Press

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

ISBN: 978-1-60370-650-6

Genre: Gay, Contemporary, M/M

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Caen Nymph

Ryan has decided to go to his high school’s ten-year reunion. Being unpopular and a geek in high school, he wants to show his fellow peers what a success he’s become. However, when Ryan meets Jason, the former quarterback and the man of his dreams, he realises that maybe proving himself isn’t what’s important anymore.

Reunion is a fun tale about a former geek turned extraordinaire who returns to reap in the glory of his success. However, Ryan soon realises that he has nothing to prove to the people who didn’t give him a second glance and for that, I loved him. He overcame the pettiness and that’s a character I can approve of. Jason was a totally different character than the usual norms written about jocks and for this reason again, I give two thumbs up to the author. Jason was tender and sweet, and just an overall lovely character. I suppose my only niggle is I wanted to read more of the characters, and from the way the story ended it was a happily-for-now scenario and definitely something the author can come back to. Reunion is a sweet tale that has some nice characters and a very good ending.

Hell Dogs Squadron: Touch & Go

Title: Hell Dogs Squadron: Touch & Go
Author: AR Moler
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-612-4
Genre: M/M Contemporary
Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Cameron Bradshaw is much more than a hotshot F/A-18 fighter pilot; he’s also a talented psychic finder, working for the government in the little known and very mysterious, Division P. He’s no more than just started a new assignment when his life takes a turn he never expected; another vehicle strikes the motorcycle he’s riding, almost killing him.

Orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Mason Flynn, is tired after a long day at the hospital and on his way home, when he witnesses a hit-and-run accident. When he reaches the victim he realizes that if he doesn’t use his innate healing skill, the gorgeous man lying mangled on the pavement will die. As the healing process begins, Mason finds himself drawn to the injured pilot, and he’s happy to discover the attraction is mutual. It’s not until Cameron’s roommate is brutally killed that the men begin to think the motorcycle accident might have been the first attempt at murder.

Hell Dogs Squadron: Touch & Go is the first release by AR Moler in her new series, Hell Dogs Squadron. The beginning of this short story is heavily weighted on getting to know Cameron, what he does for a living and getting him through his hospitalization. It’s only after he’s discharged that the story really starts to revolve around both he and Mason and where the tale picks up speed and intensity. The scenes involving the psychic aspect of both men personalities was just enough to let the reader know what was going on, without overpowering the growing relationship between Mason and Cameron. While I liked both men, it was obvious that Hell Dogs Squadron: Touch & Go was only the start of a longer story, a set-up if you will, and the rather abrupt inclusion of the sinister aspect of the story and the abrupt ending gave me a feeling of being left hanging. I’m very curious to where this story is going with its next release.

Bound by Leather

Title: Bound by Leather
Author: Mychael Black and Shayne Carmichael
Publisher: Phaze Books
Publisher URL: http://www.phaze.com/
ISBN: 9781606591475
Genre: BDSM Contemporary M/M Shapeshifter Erotic
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Virgin Nymph

From the beginning, I knew this was a special story that would grab me hook, line and sinker. Nathaniel knew he was a wolf born to be a submissive. Master Raphael is the Dom who will tame both the wolf and the man. Master Raphael saw into the heart of this man and knew he wasn’t the business-as-usual type but a man who wanted to submit and please his master.

I was touched by the Master Raphael’s kindness of heart and respect for Nathaniel. Both wanted a relationship knowing that if trust and monogamy were first and foremost, everything else would fall into place. I saw the attraction between them in Nathaniel’s introduction into the club. This short story on these two men now bound to each other had me begging for more!

The Devil Inside

Title: The Devil Inside
Author: Kate Davies
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publisher URL: http://samhainpublishing.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60504-355-5
Genre: Contemporary Western Romance
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Rose Nymph

After witnessing a horrific family tragedy as a child, Sam Quincannon has every right to hate the rodeo. Sam’s an EMT and her boss has been very sympathetic in allowing her to miss rodeo duty – until now. If she wants to progress in her career, she’ll have to face her past, in more ways than one.

Cody Shaw was on a winning streak, until he was drawn to ride The Devil Inside. Something just didn’t feel right on this bull and it’s not long before Cody’s worst nightmare becomes a reality. He doesn’t remember much about the ambulance ride or the stay in hospital but when he finally wakes up in a strange bedroom, the female voice he hears sounds very familiar.

There is a lot going on in The Devil Inside. It begins with Sam overcoming a fear from her past, which gives realism and strength to her character. With the introduction of the likable and honorable Cody, the story delves further into what Sam has had to endure. It’s clear from the start that there’s something between these two and the resulting tension and passion is very steamy, although I would have liked more background into the past the two characters shared.

The focus then switches to the cause of Cody’s accident. Sam has the bit between her teeth and suspects foul play. Perhaps feeling guilty for not being able to do anything about what she witnessed as a child. Her suspicions land her in danger though, and the resulting fallout forces both her and Cody’s families to face a painful reality. Sam needs to decide what she really wants out of life. The Devil Inside was an enjoyable read with plenty of action and likeable characters. I would have liked more time spent on the details to help build up the connection between Sam and Cody, but I would definitely recommend this to fans of the genre.

Angel’s Quest

Title: Angel’s Quest
Author: Stephani Hecht
Publisher: Extasy Books
Publisher URL: http://www.extasybooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-55487-255-8
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy/Contemporary
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

When the Chief Archangel Michael is forced to take a trip with the woman he wants as his mate, he tries every argument possible, because he would rather continue to be alone and not have to worry about her safety. Before they can leave to find the fairy child, who will be able to help rid one of their empath’s of the demon, Rachael reads him the riot act by telling him what they will or will not be doing while on the trip. All he wishes to do is take her somewhere safe, and show her how much he really wants to be with her.

Rachael is exactly what he needs in a woman, and Michael is not willingly going to accept it without a fight for control. Now that she knows a little of the trauma he went through before becoming their leader, Rachael wants to hunt down the people who caused his painful childhood. In the past Michael has been strong enough to keep others out of his mind, so they would not know how he was really feeling, but with her that was not an option and she takes advantage of it to learn more about him.

Angel’s Quest is the seventh book in the Archangels series and tells of a budding love match that needed to happen. The last book led you into this story with the knowledge that an old demon has possessed one of the Lehor brothers, leaving him needing the help of a special fairy child to remove it from him. Rachael and Michael had been avoiding each other for some time, and both of them kept their secrets close to their hearts. What ends up bringing them together is not what you expect, and the outcome of that union is a much stronger bond for the whole group.

Stephani Hecht has done it again with her interesting writing about demonic beings wanting to destroy the archangels. Michael has a huge dark secret that he doesn’t want anyone finding out and despite his efforts, his entire family does. Surprisingly, their reaction is not what he expects from them because of his connection to Lucifer, forcing him to accept the unconditional love they have for him. This is the first battle to happen between good and evil and the outcome has The Order of Four seriously thinking that they are not ready for the war to come.

Sursein Judgment

Title: Sursein Judgment
Author: Jet Mykles
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-924-9
Genre: LGBT Paranormal, M/M
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Surseine, the god of justice, has blessed a few select people, known as Sursei, with the ability to see truth and lies while in a trance-like state. The Sursei’s or judges represent the god during trials. A drug called hextasy is killing innocent people. It’s a combination drug/spell with the ability to grant a sexual experience of a life time or an agonizing death.

Shasertai Kogin is one such judge, who is trying to wipe out the drug and bring the distributors to justice. Shas prefers to be in control at all times. Normally this is possible. However for once, he will find himself in need of assistance, and it’s something that will rock him to his core. Part of the problem, and solution, is a young man named Rynnis Lort.

Rynn had no doubts about his love for his fiancée Lynnette. He is on trial, thanks to their decision to purchase hextasy. When Rynn comes before Shas, it’s clear that there is not one malevolent cell in the man’s body. Rynn needs a fresh start and the judge is just the person who can grant it. Shas finds his innocence refreshing and it draws Shas like a moth to a flame. Even knowing that Rynn is not a lover of men, Shas can’t deny his attraction, and while he doesn’t act on it, he refuses to lie about its existence.

It will take a farm boy with hardly any worldly experience to help Shas at one of the most crucial moments of his life.

Jet Mykles is an author I find hard to pass up when a new book comes out. There’s no need to really mention the sex because it’s usually hot enough to compete with a blowtorch. No, what I love are the characters, setting, and plot. The plot is simple enough, a drug that takes no prisoners and a few courageous people to save the day. From there, the simple becomes anything but. You have the most unlikely of saviors showing they are ready to fight and protect what they love and respect. Rynn, a simple country boy, grows before our eyes into a man with the ability to follow his heart and not allow anything to make him falter in his steps. Shas learns control isn’t all that he thought it was cracked up to be, and has to come to terms with his true desires and learn to let go of the reins occasionally. I love the supporting cast; they helped give the book a bit of spice. In addition, the variety in the settings from technologically advanced areas, to small towns where an outhouse is the norm, adds just that much more appeal to this story. Sursein Judgment’s multitude of levels kept me riveted to the book, until the final page.