Here Be Dragons

Title: Here Be Dragons
Author: T. A. Chase
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-285-1
Genre: LGBT Urban Fantasy, M/M
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Sometimes, heroes come in unlikely forms. Herpetologist Kael Hammerson never thought his fascination with snakes could lead him into this role. His abusive background causes Kael to shy away from intimate relationships. Regardless of how attracted he is to his boss, Hugh Price, Kael knows his fantasies will remain just that. Besides, Hugh hasn’t even noticed him beyond his sharp mind, or so Kael believes.

Hugh sees Kael’s small frame and beautifully handsome face and knows temptation is within reach. He isn’t one to mix his professional and personal lives, but Kael causes Hugh’s blood sing with anticipation, along with a certain appendage. Then top that off with his desire to protect Kael and Hugh was a goner before he knew what hit him.

With the report of dragon sightings comes a request for Hugh’s lab to research this new danger and identify a solution. This new situation causes Hugh and Kael to interact more and the sparks that caused a warm fire in the pits of their stomachs turns into a blazing inferno. There is far more going on than either realizes. Kael and Hugh will need assistance to discover why the dragons are there and how to stop them.

T. A. Chase brings us romance, action, and suspense in Here Be Dragons. Kael is a former victim, learning to live again. His trust issues are valid and left me ready to find his former lover to invoke a bit of revenge of my own. Kael is a sweet man with a good heart and I was happy to see him gain all that he needed through Hugh. Hugh would have no trouble gaining a lover, if he truly wanted one. He’s handsome, charming, smart, and has a sexy body made for cuddling. I loved the passion and compassion he introduced to Kael. Hugh was more than willing to give Kael lessons on the levels of desire. T. A. Chase is a wonderful author. From the characters to the setting, the book grabbed my attention and awoke my senses. I could smell the sea and feel the dampness of the weather. I could also feel Kael’s pain and nervous anticipation to some of his experiences. It’s wonderful when a book draws you in and you feel like you’re sitting next to the characters saying, “Okay, what are we going to do next?” I had no choice but to add T. A. Chase to my must buy list and know those who enjoy the genre will love this fantastic story.

Dreaming of Dragons

Title: Dreaming of Dragons
Author: T. A. Chase
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-918-8
Genre: LGBT Fantasy Paranormal M/M
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

One look at George and Mordred knew he had to possess the handsome warrior. Mordred’s attraction to the Realm of Dreams newcomer instantaneously reclassifies every old lover to the insignificant category. Mordred, a patient and skilled lover, knows gaining George will be a challenge. He’s ready to win his prize and knows in a matter of time, George became his, but oh, how the mighty fall when the trap laid for George ensnarls Mordred instead. Now, centuries later, the two couldn’t imagine an existence without the other’s presence.

When the magical creatures of folklore begin appearing and wreaking havoc at an increasing alarming rate, George and Mordred decide to help tilt the balance of this war in humanity’s favor. If there is the slightest chance to overcome these obstacles, George and Mordred will have to work in their perspective fields of expertise to help gain the advantage. The time spent separately causes a riff in their once harmonious relationship. Will George and Mordred find a way to succeed with their mission, while they save their relationship?

Dreaming of Dragons is the sequel to Here Be Dragons. T. A. Chase brings back the characters we fell in love with from the first novel and expands on our knowledge of Mordred, George and their relationship. George is a former hero, anxious to take up the gauntlet and fight for a worthy cause. Mordred’s centuries of living a selfish existence halts, thanks to his love of George, and he has no desire to go back to his old ways. The men bring out the best in one another, allowing their bravery, devotion and honor to shine brightly in this story. For those who’ve read the first book, you get to revisit the characters that captured our attention in Here Be Dragons, while being introduced to a few new players of interest. Two supporting cast’s budding relationships have me hoping for more details on their romances in the near future. T. A. Chase has a writing style that sucks you in to the story. The characters, plot and setting are solidly detailed and splashes of humor, suspense and action help make the story entertaining and enjoyable. I look forward to reading more of T.A. Chase’s stories in the near future and recommend Dreaming of Dragons to those who read gay paranormal novels.

Bound

Title: Bound
Author: Lila Dubois
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books
Publisher URL: http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/
ISBN: 9781595785350
Genre: BDSM m/f
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amazon Nymph

Lord Moregon was a Zinah, or temple slave, before a war that changed their society. Because he had been a Zinah, he has special needs in a wife. The king and queen decided to help him find that wife and issued a summons that all unmarried girls are to come to a feast and a few would be picked to undergo tests to become his bride.

Aketa is scarred from an accident on her family’s farm that killed her older brother. She constantly hides her face and keeps to herself because she is more comfortable on the farm alone than around other people, including her family. She is surprised when she is one of those picked to undergo the final tests.

Bound is a story of two people trying to find themselves, once they are outside their comfort zones. Both see something in the other but fight against the feelings of inadequacy they have. I got engrossed in the story as it progressed and did not want it to end. Ms. Dubois has a good understanding of the darker aspects of the BDSM life.

Heart Doctor

Title: Heart Doctor
Author: Drew Zachary
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com
ISBN: 978-1-60370-711-4
Genre: Gay M/M, Contemporary
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Drey is the head nurse on the cardiac floor. He has worked hard to get his position and loves the staff, the hospital and the patients.

Brady is the hospital's new cardiologist. He has lots of rules that have made his life easier. One of those rules is no dating co-workers.

Working in a hospital with a strict fraternization policy means these two have a lot to lose by getting involved. Yet once they get together, the only choice they have is to break all the rules.

Heart Doctor by Drew Zachary is a lighthearted romance that was fun to read. The characters, Drey and Brady, as well as the interfering secondary ones, will draw you into the story from the beginning. While the two men are attracted to each other from the start, the author lets their romance build before the bed-hopping begins. If you are looking for something angst-free and with characters who are not afraid to show their feelings, this book is for you.

Mine

Title: Mine
Author: Justus Roux
Publisher: Erotictales Publications
Publisher URL: http://www.justusroux.com/
ISBN: 1441452389
Genre: BDSM, Ménage (m/f/m) (m/m)
Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amazon Nymph

Tara has been investigating the Master/Submissive lifestyle and decides to auction herself off at a club, in order to spend a year training with a Master. She is very frightened after she gets there, wondering if she is making the right choice since she is thirty and not as skinny as the other women there.

Raven goes to the auction after being talked into it by a friend. Alex decides that Raven needs to start training a new Submissive and Raven chooses Tara. Tara embarks on a year of training with Raven as his Submissive/Slave. What follows is a year of discovery for both of them.

Mine, the first book in the Dom/Sub trilogy, is a classic manual for anyone interested in this kind of lifestyle. This book is more about a Master/Slave relationship than a Master/Submissive, in my opinion. I enjoyed the story as a whole, but was very distracted by the fact that there were a lot of typos, words out of place, and some missing words. The relationship between Raven and Tara was very intense and the added element of other Masters and Submissives upped the heat factor a lot.

Sweet Oblivion 3: Fluid

Title: Sweet Oblivion 3: Fluid
Author: Jordan Castillo Price
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59596-397-0
Genre: Paranormal/Gay (m/m)/Vampire
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Satyr Vael

Wild Bill and Michael are doing the party thing in a bit of a slum when they stumble on a few characters that don’t quite belong, despite the punkish, gothic feel of the crowd. After a racy photo shoot, they’re headed out when they spot another vamp, following one of the humans. They catch up, Michael’s intention to lecture and instruct the vamp and her future snack about safety, when the snack in question leads them to a houseboat. Bill’s senses go into overdrive, but before he can do anything, it all turns into a disaster. The trick is surviving it.

Sweet Oblivion 3: Fluid is the perfect title to this latest installment in Wild Bill and Michael’s story. Told from Bill’s POV (which I absolutely love), it’s sexy, visceral, and utterly dangerous, from beginning to end.

As always, the love scenes are scorching (especially during the photo shoot), and the pivotal scene toward the end had me genuinely worried about them and how they’d ever get out of the trouble.

This is another incredible addition to the series – one I highly recommend.

Shunga Chronicles: Flight of the Heron

Title: Shunga Chronicles: Flight of the Heron
Author: Lizzie Lynn Lee
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60521-202-9
Genre: Shunga, BDSM, M/F
Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Yukiko poses as a courtesan in a pleasure house, hoping to attract the attentions of Lord Matsushita, the man she believes is responsible for the death of her older sister, a death that brought shame to her family. Only by killing Matsushita can the family honor be restored. However, her plans are disrupted when Matsushita buys her contract and moves Yukiko into his household as his concubine. The more Yukiko learns about Matsushita, the more she begins to question what she was told. Her mission becomes even more convoluted when she discovers she is a pawn for Matsushita’s enemies with political motives.

Shunga Chronicles: Flight of the Heron is another intriguing installment in the Shunga Chronicles. Yukiko’s only motivation is to redeem her family’s honor; she did not expect to fall in love and Matsushita, who knew the truth of the events, still loved Yukiko and refused to let her leave him. Lizzie Lynn Lee showcases the strict code of honor and the resolutions that was part of the Japanese culture. This is an enjoyable series.

Light Touch

Title: Light Touch

Author: Chris Owen

Publisher: Torquere Press

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

ISBN: N/A

Genre: Contemporary M/M

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Caen Nymph

Elias needs to share his new sex discovery and decides that Jake is the best person to tell. Jake doesn’t want to know, but Elias won’t quit. So now Jake is left with an odd curiosity to see how well feathers work in the bedroom, and he’s pretty sure Tor won’t mind.

Nothing delights me more than to read about Jake and Tor from the wonderful books Bareback and its sequel, Natural Disaster. Both are books that I rate highly and Jake and Tor will always be one of the best characters I have ever read. So seeing the re-release of Light Touch made me very happy. I love the curiosity factor Jake has with the feathers; however I felt it took too long to get into the actual usage of the feathers, and for Tor to enter into the story. However, it is always a pleasure to read something from Jake’s point of view.

His She-Wolf Warrior

Title: His She-Wolf Warrior
Author: Marisa Chenery
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books
Publisher URL: http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59578-591-6
Genre: Contemporary Werewolf
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Even though his twin brother, Finn, has found his mate, Eli vows that he will never tie himself to one woman; it’s just not his style. While sitting with his siblings and their mates at the Wulf’s Den, Eli sees a beautiful blond-haired female werewolf and he’s instantly attracted to her.

Saskia and her six werewolf brothers-in-arms have trained for hundreds of years in preparation for devoting their lives to protecting the foreseen one…Roxie. Her mission is to make contact with Beowulf and Roxie at the Wulf’s Den, offering herself and her men as guards. What she doesn’t expect is one of her visions. Especially one that has her and the male mortal she just met, and who’s currently devouring her with his eyes, to end up in bed together.

The sex between Saskia and Eli is hot and intense, but it leaves them both in a situation neither expected nor wanted…mated. As the two lovers work through their misgivings, a new threat to Roxie and her position as the foretold one arises. A vicious and deadly enemy is determined to take Roxie as his own; it doesn’t matter if he has to kill or maim to get what he wants and that includes new mates, Eli and Saskia.

His She-Wolf Warrior is the fifth and latest release in Ms. Chenery’s fun and entertaining Wulf’s Den series. While it’s not imperative the books be read in order, it will give a better understanding of how things in the past releases affect the present and how the relationships of the primary and secondary characters are tied together.

The plot is well written and fast-paced, with great characterizations and entertaining, snappy dialogue. The pairing of Eli and Saskia is passionate and intense from the beginning and the little plot twist that neither wanted to be tied down…perfect. Ms. Chenery did a nice job working Eli and Saskia through the upheaval of their unwanted mating, showing the physical and emotional surrender to their mutual need. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Billie, Royce, Roxie, Beowulf, Finn and Jocelyn from the previous releases. They might not have been in any one scene long, but their presence filled a vital role in rounding out the story, giving continuity and a sense of love and family.

There are also six new additions to the world of the inhabitants of the Wulf’s Den, with the arrival of Saskia and her men. These guys are gorgeous like all werewolves, determined, loyal and trained deadly warriors, and I can’t wait to see what Ms. Chenery does with them in future releases.

Spellbound

Title: Spellbound
Author: Jo Atkinson, Kelly Wade, Charlotte Boyett-Compo, Holly East, Devin Salerno, Ashlyn Chase, Chase Jeffreys, Suzanne Elizabeth, Victoria Lake and Rachel Kenley
Publisher: Ravenous Romance
Publisher URL: http://www.ravenousromance.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60777-071-8
Genre: Erotic, Fairytale, Anthology, M/F
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Rose Nymph

Handsome and Petal - 4.5 Nymphs - Jo Atkinson – From the moment he sets eyes on Lily, Brody knows that the thing he wants most from the bakery isn’t the delicious treats on the menu. Lily’s never seen a more handsome man and with her cooking skills, it isn’t long before he’s eating out of her hand. A mouth- watering treat for the senses, mixing hunger and heat perfectly while keeping the tradition of the tale nicely. This was a nice way to open the anthology.

Sasha and the Seven Rosetti Brothers - 3.5 Nymphs - Kelly Wade – Sasha’s finally getting back on her feet after being kicked out of her home by her horrid stepmother, Moira. The struggling actress is ecstatic when she gets a part in a play starring the gorgeous Aiden Prince but it seems she’s all out of luck, as Moira’s backing the play. The characters were wonderful in this but unfortunately I was far too interested in Moira getting her comeuppance to think about the romance. This story reads a little disjointed, with the plot jumping ahead in places but lagging behind at other times.

Windrush - 5 Nymphs - Charlotte Boyett-Compo – When Hayver finds himself in the middle of nowhere in a broken-down car and a storm closing in, he thinks his luck is out. As the rain starts to pour, he makes a dash for cover but when he sees what comes out to play when the clouds gather, he realizes this is no ordinary storm. A fantastic story with an introduction that made me laugh out loud, Hayver is a great character and the wonderfully descriptive writing made this a pleasure to read.

How Red Tamed her Wolf - 3 Nymphs - Holly East – Ruby loves Alex so much that she is blind to the fact that he is taking her for granted. It takes a good friend to help her see what’s going on and to point her in the right direction. Quite simply, it’s time for Ruby’s wild side to come out to play. I liked the idea of what was attempted here; a relationship that is in danger of getting stuck in a rut if action isn’t taken but this really needed more time to develop before I could really feel for the characters.

The Match - 5 Nymphs - Devin Salerno – As Elle walks the cold, lonely back streets on New Year’s Eve, she is too wrapped up in her own heartache to participate in the celebrations. The pain of Graeme leaving her has numbed her senses but on this eve of a new beginning, she may finally be able to find peace. This is a very well written story with substance and a plot well balanced with tragedy and optimism that had me hooked from start to finish.

Letting her Hair Down - 4 Nymphs - Ashlyn Chase – Rapunzel is slowly going mad, all alone in her tower except for visits from her evil witch of a mother. She wants to be like other girls; she wants a boyfriend who can teach her all the things she’s read about in Cosmo! When Prince Wunderkind hears her singing one night, Rapunzel thinks she’s found her man but mother dearest isn’t going to make things easy for them. By merging fairytale with modern day life and adding scorching scenes, the author has created a very amusing, adult tale indeed. It faltered slightly at the end but all in all was a great read.

Schumacher and the Elf – 3.5 Nymphs - Chase Jeffreys – Royce is feeling dissatisfied with life but doesn’t know how to fix things. When tragic news reaches him, he’s forced back home to pick up the pieces – he’s just not sure if he’s ready for it. Luckily there’s someone waiting for him to help get some satisfaction back in his life. This story had promise and the characters were likable but the constant perspective change hindered my enjoyment. Also, I can’t help but feel the erotic theme, which flirted with kink at times, was forced and the plot suffered because of it.

Frog - 4.5 Nymphs - Suzanne Elizabeth – To take her mind off her ex, Cassandra takes a walk to one of her favorite spots. There, she almost loses a locket that she cherishes dearly but a knight in shining armor rescues it. Everything would have worked out fine but for the fact that she can’t bear to look at her rescuer’s face. What’s with this guy, and why does he have such strange requests for Cassandra? This was an enjoyable take on a classic tale that was well written and kept my interest throughout. Strong characters, a magical romance and a satisfying ending made this a pleasure to read.

Free Falling - 4 Nymphs - Victoria Lake – Wendy’s circus job requires great trust in her ability and that of her partner, Peter if they are to pull off the stunt safely. The moment before she leaps, she sees that trust returned in Peter’s eyes. If only her horrid boss Hooke wasn’t there, hell bent on destroying her happiness, things would be perfect. Something about the way this story is written made it difficult for me to separate this from the fairytale and so the eroticism was hard to take at times. That being said, the plot was good, the characters likeable and the ending very satisfying.

Legs - 4.5 Nymphs - Rachel Kenley – Grace only has three days to find the ultimate pleasure; if she doesn’t she will be lost to the sea forever. When Logan finds her testing out her new body, she hopes he will be the one to help her. Logan’s never met a woman like Grace before and something tells him she’s different from all the other models he’s worked with. This is a wonderful way to end the anthology; with two very nice characters who I wanted to see happy and a rich, vibrant setting of the ocean and the model lifestyle. Logan’s dissatisfaction at his job is well portrayed, as is Grace’s frustration at not being able to communicate with Logan and the ending was perfect

Spellbound is a wonderful collection of fairytales with a twist. There are some very strong tales and it seems to me that the best brought a touch of humor to the classics. With a good mixture of laughter, sex and drama, it was a joy to read these tales given a perverted makeover. Fair to their origins, there is hardship and evil presences trying to defeat goodness at every turn but as we all know, good will out and the happy-ever-after is never far away.

Holed Up

Title: Holed Up
Author: Hank Edwards
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-951-5
Genre: Contemporary M/M
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

FBI Special Agent Aaron Pearce is good at his job so when the Detroit office sends out a distress call for help, Agent Pearce is assigned to the case. Good Samaritan Mark Beecher stumbles onto a terrorist group planning a major attack and calls the FBI but before the Detroit agents can arrest the culprits, they get away. When Pearce arrives at the office to escort Mark to a safe house, the plans go terribly wrong. There is a terrorist spy in the agency; Pearce and Mark’s escape route is cut off and Pearce is not familiar with Detroit. Luckily, Mark is smart as well as quick-thinking; they make their way to an absent friend’s loft to stay until Mark is to give testimony. Finally having some time to talk, Pearce and Mark discover a mutual attraction that almost becomes fatal when Pearce loses focus and the protector is soon in need of protection.

Hank Edwards’ Holed Up is a well-written, fast-paced exhilarating FBI thriller. Pearce has a sharp mind with good instincts, in addition to being able to swing into high alert mode at a moment’s notice. Mark is a perfect match for Pearce with his common-sense survival attitude. Together, they took me through intense action episodes interwoven with a dash of humor along with very sensuous love scenes. Holed Up is an incredible story that I enjoyed immensely.

Back Cut

Title: Back Cut
Author: Alexa Snow
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-717-6
Genre: Contemporary M/M
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Caen Nymph

Carter is on a book tour and Nate joins him on the trip. During their journey, they meet a passionate fan that leads them to a lot of trouble and Carter gets mixed up in his brother’s disappointment in his sexual orientation. Despite the fact Nate and Carter are like oil and water, Nate is willing to do anything to protect the man he loves.

Back Cut is a short sequel to the author’s first novel Clear Cut; a story which was one of the first e-books I ever read. Clear Cut was a great novel, and I enjoyed it immensely and Back Cut does not disappoint either. The author puts in a lot of action, and it is all done very well. We get to see Nate and Carter in their prime, mostly teasing or arguing about something or another and they are such genuine characters that they are a pleasure to read. The action comes from a crazy fan and Carter’s disapproving brother and whilst the latter was done well, the prior left me a tad confused, even though I enjoyed that aspect pretty well. I was hoping there would be more to it, but the conclusion to that section seemed a tad abrupt. I had to re-read Clear Cut because I read it a few months after it came out. There is a gap between the two and I, personally, found the need to go back to the first book. Whilst the story stands on its own, I felt a disconnection with the characters, which happens when characters have already been fully established elsewhere.

I really enjoyed Back Cut, the characters read realistically and there is enough of everything going on here to make the story interesting, but not cluttered.

Rhiannon's Pride

Title: Rhiannon's Pride
Author: Frances Stockton
Publisher: Cerridwen Press
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/

ISBN: 9781419920103
Genre: Historical Paranormal Romance
Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Rhiannon is plagued by memory loss, tiredness and severe headaches. She has spent the last twenty years living in near seclusion with her handmaid, Mary, as her only friend and companion. Rhiannon is upset when she unexpectedly learns that the reason she’s been educated and taught to run a large household is so she can wed an earl. It’s during the earl’s visit that she sees and is drawn to a beautiful but mysterious painting filled with mesmerizing mythological creatures. Running away with her maid, Rhiannon makes her way to Florence in hopes of speaking to the painting’s artist; in order to learn all she can about the race she believes herself to be a part.

Artist Dante is a lion Abcynian Elder and he’s been hoping to meet his mate for decades. When he sees Rhiannon and recognizes her Leo heritage and her ability to speak mind to mind with him, he realizes she’s his mate and rushes to claim her. When Rhiannon collapses in his arms, he takes her and Mary to his home, in order to care for her while she heals. While Rhiannon recovers her memory and recuperates, he teaches her about the history of their race and the two fall in love. Threats to their happiness come from within and without…by Rhiannon’s fear and the plans of an evil man determined to get her back, at all costs.

Rhiannon’s Pride is the second release in Frances Stockton’s historical paranormal series Abcynian Panthera, and takes up several decades after the first left off. The book can be read as a stand-alone, but greater understanding of the Abcynian race and ongoing characters will be attained, if read in order.

This second release by Ms. Stockton is well written, taking the reader deeper into the world of the Abcynian shapeshifters, giving out additional pieces of information regarding their ancient history and that of their long-held enemies, the Saturian. I admit that I love the mythological aspect to this intriguing ongoing storyline and am curious to where, when and with whom the author will deal with next. However, getting back to this story…I loved seeing many of the characters we met in Seductive Persuasion and once introduced, they play a vital part in this story.

Dante is everything an Abcynian Elder should be…dedicated to the people under his care, loyal to his friends and family, talented, strong, aggressive and protective. He’s also tenderhearted and loving, which he shows in abundance when he meets up with the emotionally bruised and physically abused Rhiannon and claims her as his mate. Ms. Stockton did a wonderful job creating this man. He’s patience personified and I couldn’t help but like and appreciate him for those qualities.

Rhiannon begins as a rather sad character, which isn’t surprising, considering that she’s spent the last several decades of her life plagued by severe headaches and memory loss, at the hand of her so-called guardian. I was thrilled when she developed a backbone and fled with her companion, Mary. I wasn’t thrilled with her seeming inability to work through what had happened to her in the past, despite learning the truths of her family history, the Abcynian race and why she had been ill for so long. I understand that Rhiannon needed to deal with her painful history at her own pace, but from a reader’s viewpoint, her fear and uncertainty dragged on for far too long. It also, unfortunately, made her more than a bit annoying and unlikable to me…that is, until near the final portion of the story. This is the point where Rhiannon started to change into the strong woman she needed to be, if she was to be a good mate to Dante, and an important member of the Abcynian race.

Madam Periwinkle’s Erotic Delights: Jada’s Rabbit Habit

Title: Madam Periwinkle’s Erotic Delights: Jada’s Rabbit Habit
Author: Isabella Jordan
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59596-921-7
Genre: Paranormal/Dark Fantasy/Werewolves
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

Being a spoiled rich girl has Jada Danforth doing the wrong things. She is always in the tabloids with some incident and now that the boyfriends have dried up, she is lonely. During one of her shopping excursions, she stumbles onto an erotic store that she has never seen before. Now that the store has her attention, she goes in to do some serious shopping, and finds the perfect rabbit toy.

When she has to call Aidan Richards, vibrator serviceman, to fix the broken toy, she is speechless after opening the door for him. These two can’t get enough of each other and are worried about their private lives. What Jada learns about Aidan shocks her, but she is not willing to let him go yet. So she continues to wrestle with whether he is telling her the truth or not, and tries to enjoy her time with him instead.

Madam Periwinkle’s Erotic Delights: Jada’s Rabbit Habit is not what I expected this book to be, which was tarot cards, reading and such. This story is a complete surprise to me, with the tale of two lonely people finding each other by enlisting the help of Madam Periwinkle, who ran an erotic store. Jada and Aidan really needed one another, and she was able to avoid the public eye with their time together, for the most part. I liked the fact that Aidan was able to show Jada a different side of life, instead of just writing checks and having other people do the work for her.

Isabella Jordan did a wonderful job of expressing how life can be changed by the actions of the characters. There is not a lot of information given regarding any of the characters, and that left me wanting to know more about them. The connection between these two lovers was very strong, and I needed a cool drink after every sexual encounter they had. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. If you want a quickie, read this book.

Never Say Goodbye

Title: Never Say Goodbye
Author: Jenna Byrnes
Publisher: Phaze Books
Publisher URL: http://www.phaze.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60659-020-1
Genre: M/M Contemporary
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Damien Hall ended up on the streets at a very young age, doing whatever he needed to survive, and that included hustling and theft. Getting caught with stolen merchandise in his possession lands him in Corcoran State Prison. Five years later, he’s out of prison and living with a man, Charles, who only wants him for sex. It’s a position he never expected to be in but with only a GED to rely on, he doesn’t think he has any other option than to play pool-boy.

Travis Slater is the new horse wrangler on the estate, and he’s attracted to Damien. When their employer leaves town for two weeks, it gives him the chance to spend time getting to know the younger man. Love quickly follows; giving him hope they can leave and find a life together except Damien is afraid of being homeless again. When it’s learned the real reason Damien was hired, he’s forced to make a decision. Does he do what he knows is right or what’s easy, and what about Travis?

Never Say Goodbye is the third release in the Slippery When Wet series by authors Jude Mason and Jenna Byrnes. It’s all too sad that most newly released ex-cons have few prospects for jobs, which explains why Damien falls back into what he did before…hustling, except this time he doesn’t think of it in the same terms. That’s where Travis and his opinions throw a wrench into Damien’s carefully guarded mindset; just because he’s only having sex with Charles doesn’t mean he isn’t making his living selling by his body for sex. He’s still hustling.

I guess this is the point where I not only felt very sorry for Damien, but I began to see another side to Travis. Yeah, the hunky cowboy lusted after Damien’s sexy little body but he also cared for the man inside, despite his history and low self-esteem. Travis cared enough to tell Damien the truth, and offer him a chance at future that he was in control of…where he and Travis could be together. This is where Ms. Byrnes excelled. While the story is short at only 17K words, she packs in just enough back-story and personal information to allow the reader to form an emotional attachment to the two men that had you rooting for the success of their newly forming relationship. She also created a great villain in Charles, even if it only became apparent just how much of a creep he was at the end.

Stolen Earth

Title: Stolen Earth
Author: Loribelle Hunt
Publisher: Liquid Silver
Publisher URL: http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59578- 532-9
Genre: Science Fiction, BDSM (m/f)
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amazon Nymph

Britt doesn’t want to be dragged back into a covert lifestyle, but several attempts have been made on her friends’ mates’ lives. The one man that both men trust has bound her to him and now Barak is missing.

Barak is the heir apparent to the Saber Clan, but rebellion has become a reality. He has returned from the palace and now will take his rightful place. He doesn’t know whom to trust except Britt and he is not happy about it, as he wants to keep her safe. Barak does not want her to use her skills and get in the middle of the rebellion.

Stolen Earth is the third installment of The Delroi Chronicles. The sexual relationship between Barak and Britt is very intense as she realizes that Barak could very well be the one who is her equal. Keep the fans and ice-cubes handy as you read. The suspense is riveting and very fast paced. I could not stop reading this book. I will be reading this series again and recommend it; however, it is best to read in order, even though it is not absolutely necessary.

Strictly Business

Title: Strictly Business
Author: Cat Grant
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Publisher URL: http://www.lyricalpress.com/
ISBN: N/A
Genre: Erotic M/M, BDSM
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Vengeance is what years of watching his mother driven to an early grave have left Eric Courtland to contemplate. While payback won’t bring back his mother, it will prove to his father he’s not untouchable. Their sour relationship has Eric feels no pity while he helps ensure his father fall from grace. Eric teams with Branford Crane and has no idea if he’s swimming with the sharks, or has actually become their new meal. Sometimes the enemy you know isn’t the one capable of hurting you the most.

Strictly Business is the Courtland Chronicles series prequel to The Arrangement. Eric is a young man still reeling from the pain of his mother’s death and his father’s lack of love. He has friends who support him but that severed relationship has tainted Eric into believing he doesn’t deserve true love. Eric, at times, is his own worst enemy. His story made me feel fortunate to have a family who believes in me. Eric proves that no amount of possessions could equate to the wealth gained from unconditional love. Bran teaches Eric many lessons, and while some will be difficult to learn, they all point him in the direction of his destiny. Cat Grant’s setting, plot and characters are wonderfully written. There are sadomasochistic acts included in this story, but the characters seemed to have grown from the experience. Those acts actually disturbed me less than Eric’s actions towards Nick, his lover of three years, and I definitely have a few issues with his unscrupulous behavior. At times, the story took over some of my emotions and overall I found Strictly Business an enjoyable story to read.

By Chance

Title: By Chance
Author: Cat Grant
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Publisher URL: http://www.lyricalpress.com/
ISBN: 978-0-9824170-4-1
Genre: Erotica, M/M
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Eric Courtland doesn’t like large groups of people and prefers solitude. So to discover that he not only has a roommate, but one he’s attracted to, doesn’t bode well for the wealthy young man.

Nick Thompson didn’t want to impose on Eric’s life, but there’s no way around their new arrangement. Over time he proves to Eric that being the college quarterback doesn’t mean he’s a dumb jock.

Their attraction evolves from being agreeable roommates to supporting friends and finally, lovers. Nick’s not ready to come out, and it causes a rife between the two men. Will they find a way to work around Nick’s apprehension to expose the truth?

By Chance is the third book of the Courtland Chronicles series. While this is the third book, I personally recommend that you read this story, then Strictly Business followed by The Arrangement. It will give you insight to Eric from his college years up to the man who wants to become a U.S. Senator, as well as to his relationship with Nick. I believe this was my favorite story of the series so far. Eric wasn’t one to drop his guard and Nick wiggled his way right into his heart without trying. The plot is simple, but written to incite readers to take sides; there will be very few who will straddle the fence with this story. I could understand both men’s desires but for some reason, found myself siding with Eric a bit more than Nick. After everything Eric has endured, he wanted one person who would only love him and shout it to the entire world. Truthfully, I found myself hoping he could have that. I’m looking forward to seeing what Cat Grant brings us next in this delicious series.

Embracing the Leopard

Title: Embracing the Leopard
Author: Michelle Houston
Publisher: Phaze Books
Publisher URL: http://www.phaze.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60659-164-2
Genre: Shifter, M/M
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Sitting on the shore surrounding the lake, Erik is enjoying the sunshine when he catches the scent of another shifter, watching as the other man removed his clothes and waded into the lake to swim. Erik walks to the edge of the lake to introduce himself and let the man know he is on private property. When Brandon comes to the shore, there is an immediate attraction between them. Erik did not realize that Brandon is following his own agenda and that their meeting was planned, as well as soon welcomed to both their satisfactions

Michelle Houston’s Embracing the Leopard is a wonderful short story of two gay leopard shifters from different packs finding a common ground together. I enjoyed this romantic morsel immensely.

Boys at Play: A Jarheads Short

Title: Boys at Play: A Jarheads Short

Author: Sean Michael

Publisher: Torquere Press

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

ISBN: N/A

Genre: Contemporary M/M/M

Rating: 3 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Caen Nymph

Rock, Rig and Dick are back again in this short story and this time they’re going to be having fun. The boys take on leather; spin the bottle and videos to see who can get under whose skin the fastest.

Boys at Play: A Jarheads Short is a trademark Sean Michael story, where the story is all sex and little substance. For what the story offers, it is pretty good and fans of the Jarheads series will be happy to see the boys in another short story. I was hoping for more interaction between Dick and Rock; sadly Rig again is the buffer between these two characters and I don’t see it changing anytime soon. I do hope we see more interaction between Dick and Rock because they are my two favourite characters, and it’s a shame they are rarely together without Rig acting as a barrier. I enjoyed Boys at Play: A Jarheads Short. However, I can’t help but wish the author did something different instead of the same formula the author follows in all his books.

Tartan Mind

Title: Tartan Mind
Author: Selena Illyria
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60521-203-6
Genre: Paranormal
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amethyst Nymph

Lexi’s family was trying to force her into a marriage she was totally against. Going on the run only got her into more trouble than she bargained for. When Lexi is attacked one rainy night, a mystery man saves her and changes her life forever.

Kameron is a different kind of wolf, who is dealing with his own family drama. Normally he wouldn’t get involved with humans, but something about Lexi was stirring Kameron in ways he couldn’t ignore.

Lexi and Kameron have a night of unbridled passion before they are separated. Several issues keep the couple from getting together for very long. Family secrets, and being without his woman, have Kameron on the verge of being a prisoner in his own mind, until his mate reaches out to him.

Tartan Mind is proof that Selena Illyria is an author with the power to enslave readers. At times Kameron was so focused on his sexual need for Lexi that I was not sure I could like him. After gaining entry to his heart and mind and remembering that wolves are more intense, I couldn’t help but feel for him. Not only do Lexi and Kameron set the pages on fire, but there are several other characters introduced that I am praying get their own story. I can’t wait for what comes next in this series.

Moonlight & Magic

Title: Moonlight & Magic
Author: Mina Carter
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60521-158-9
Genre: Paranormal/Dark Fantasy
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

Daelas and Jaren are twin incubi and co-owners of the exclusive paranormal club Moonlight & Magic and they proudly cater to their clients needs. They are bored with their lives, and now want something more than just the business. Daelas senses Sage’s aura in the club while he is upstairs working, and he has to search her out on the dance floor. Now that the twins have had a taste of her, nothing will stop them from completing their bond with her.

Sage is part Fae, out on the town with her friend Sherri, and looking for a sex demon to satisfy her sexual needs. While she is dancing on the stage, she is approached by Daelas. She is not sure at first she wants to take the steps to be serviced by him, but then takes the hand that he offers. After a night of hot sex with the twins, she overhears them the next morning talking about bonding with her, which causes her to run from them.

Moonlight & Magic has a twist to it with twin brothers in business together, Daelas and Jaren,, and they are sure of what they want out of life. I was surprised that Knuckles, their bouncer was able to help them find Sage so quickly after she fled, and how quick their determination to find her set in. This was a quickie with an abusive ex-fiancé, bent on hurting Sage, and some very hot sex between the three main characters. Mina Carter did a wonderful job of describing the scenes in the nightclub and of the characters that lent more charisma to them for me. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

Sunlight and Slavery

Title: Sunlight and Slavery
Author: Mina Carter
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60521-40-1
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy/Romance
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

Knuckles, the gargoyle, is the controlling factor of peace at the Moonlight & Magic Club and he loves his job. He can solve any trouble that starts in the bar before it gets out of hand and knows how to take control before the problem gets started. When he has to rescue Neri, he feels an attraction to her that shouldn’t happen. She is a calming force for him in a positive way and they are able to start a relationship.

Neri has gotten herself into a terrible mess with her gangster boyfriend and now needs to escape him before he tries to kill her. On her way out of the club with the boyfriend’s bodyguard, who is plotting more than just a round of rough sex, she tries to get the attention of the doorman to no avail, but she is still hoping that someone will rescue her from death’s grip. After he takes her to his place to recover, she becomes fascination with Knuckles and is more than a little curious. They both explode with emotions as they explore each other intimately.

Sunlight & Slavery is the second book in the Moonlight & Magic series and I fell in love Knuckles because of his loyalty and desire to protect others, even if his actions put him in danger. He has all the redeeming qualities of a knight in shinning armor for me, and the tender, loving care he shows a human female is touching. There is a certain mystery surrounding the club itself and to have all types of races visit it was very interesting for me. Mina Carter did a fabulous job of writing of how different people can be, in their attitude, outlook and upbringing. Yet they can still live with and function together without violence.

Hell Dogs Squadron 3: Cut Pass

Title: Hell Dogs Squadron 3: Cut Pass
Author: AR Moler
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerepress.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-726-8
Genre: M/M Contemporary
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Considering the events swirling around new lovers Cameron and Mason, it a wonder no one’s been killed; the danger pulling the two men ever closer together. Afraid to leave his lover alone, Cameron and his intelligence agency co-workers head out to Meridian Naval Air Station with the ‘I hate to fly’ Mason in tow. Their mission….locate, seize and secure a stolen missile.

Using Cameron’s psychic power to find the missile turns out to be the easy part of the mission. Retrieving the explosive device from the thieves turns into a bloody firefight that leaves one of their men critically wounded and near death and Mason struggling to save him. Even after the completion of their mission, an unexpected traitor puts Cameron’s life in jeopardy, forcing Mason into an action that threatens his sanity.

Cut Pass is the third and final release in AR Moler’s interesting and well-written Hell Dogs Squadron series. While short in length at just over 11,000 words, the author manages to artfully and succinctly pack in all the elements needed to bring this serial-style trilogy to a satisfying conclusion. The relationship of Cameron and Mason is growing stronger, Cameron is healing from his previous injuries, Mason can openly use his psychic healing powers and they discover the identity of the enemy.

The scenes while flying to Meridian Navel Air Station, those in the warehouse firefight and the ones immediately following, were particularly well done, I felt. The love, compassion and tenderness between Cameron and Mason was perfect, giving this reader hope for the long-term happily-ever-after both men want and deserve.

I’d be more than happy to see more of these psychically gifted men and Division P again in the future. Think about it, Ms. Moler.

Dangerous Deception

Title: Dangerous Deception
Author: Katie Reus
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/
ISBN: 9781419921384
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amazon Nymph

Sage’s life was turned upside down after her sister was murdered, by a man stalking Sage. She quit her job to get away after the trial and stays at a bed and breakfast before she takes a trip to try to get her life back together.

Trent meets Sage at the bed and breakfast and they have a fast and furious sexual relationship. She takes off after a week and Trent tries to track her down. Trent goes back home to North Carolina and finds Sage working for his brother and wants to pick up where they left off. Sage tries to keep him away from her as she is still being stalked and she doesn’t want him hurt.

I enjoyed this suspense thriller. Dangerous Deception is very fast paced but you can feel all of Sage and Trent’s emotions. Ms. Reus places you right in the middle of their relationship. Keep a supply of ice-cubes handy as the sex is scorching.

Hunger

Title: Hunger
Author: Kate Hill
Publisher: Changeling Press
Publisher URL: http://www.changelingpress.com/
ISBN: 978-60521-130-5
Genre: Paranormal
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Chante has a cat fetish that could have originated from her cat-shaped birthmark. Regardless of the source, it’s something she doesn’t plan to change. When a man with amber-eyes begins to follow her, Chante decides some distance is required, so she decides to visit her great-aunt in Jamaica. Surely, he won’t be able to find her there, right?

Joshi is a Prowleryn, a shape shifter whose tribe lives in remote African wetlands. He’s known all his life he was destined to marry Chante, a mere human and Joshi isn’t happy about the arrangement.

The time has come to claim his mate, and while Joshi is ready to proceed, Chante is not. Can Joshi convince his headstrong mate to submit?

Kate Hill delivers another action-packed, sensually laced story with Hunger. This is the first story of the Mate Marks series. Joshi is handsome, strong, smart, and sexy. The man knows how to thoroughly sate a woman’s body; unfortunately, his understanding of our requirements outside of sex wouldn’t help him conquer a hill of beans from some rambunctious ants. Chante is as smart as she is beautiful, and won’t settle for Joshi demanding anything of her regardless of how her womb sings a sonnet written just for him. I loved this about the character. She didn’t just fall in his arms and accept his explanation as the gospel. This made for a far more entertaining story. Kate Hill has started the series with a bang, and I look forward to reading more about the Prowleryn and the women who tame them.

Ride the Tiger: the Six of Swords

Title: Ride the Tiger: the Six of Swords
Author: Misa Izanaki
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-674-2
Genre: Paranormal Romance, M/M
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Evan is getting ready to go to work. On the other hand, his live in boyfriend, along with his friend, have other plans for Evan. Still black-and-blue from the last beating, Evan refuses to accommodate them and is locked out of the apartment. Cold, wet and barefoot, Evan finds an alley behind The Body Shop nightclub to hide. When the back door opens, Evan is ready to run but soon discovers the man in the door is his long lost twin, whom he has not seen in ten years. No longer homeless, thanks to his brother, Evan quickly adjusts to working in the club’s office; he also secretly admires were tiger Varian, the new bouncer. Varian is drawn to the first sight of the shy Evan, and then falls hard for the man when Evan relates he enjoys the tiger and likes scratching him behind the ears. However, Evan soon realizes he has not been liberated from his ex-boyfriend when, at a chance meeting, he demands Evan’s return.

Ride the Tiger: the Six of Swords is an amazing heartwarming romance. Evan allowed himself to be abused, as well as manipulated, because of guilt and his fear of being homeless. His reunion with his twin brother, in addition to the love and acceptance of Varian, made a big difference in Evan’s life. Evan’s total acceptance of Varian’s tiger side brought forth his natural instincts to care for and protect his mate. Misa Izanaki has created a beautiful story of two men, each bringing something positive to form an exceptionally well-matched relationship. This is an exceedingly enjoyable story.

Flight Plan

Title: Flight Plan
Author: Mike Shade
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: N/A
Genre: Sci-Fi, M/M/M
Rating: 3 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Caen Nymph

Rocco and Zeke are twins and lovers; they spend their time flying their ship and making love to each other. So when Zeke takes a liking to the new engine doctor Derrick, Rocco is in two minds, but the engine doctor soon worms his way into the twin’s bed.

Flight Plan is both a “twincest” story and a ménage-a-trios story; if you are uncomfortable with either theme, then this story would best be skipped. I enjoyed reading about all three characters. They were all different from each other; Rocco being more dominant, Zeke being mouthier and Derrick more submissive. They all brought a different aspect to the story, and I enjoyed that immensely. However, I didn’t buy into how quickly Derrick made it into the twins’ life – the twins shared men when both of them wanted too, but Zeke brought Derrick in without talking too his brother and I didn’t buy the reason why he did so. I think the story needed more fleshing out, but it was an enjoyable piece, even if I didn’t buy into Derrick’s quick introduction into the boys lives.

Circe’s Recruits: Hale

Title: Circe’s Recruits: Hale
Author: Marie Harte
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-939-3
Genre: M/M/F Shapeshifter Paranormal
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Project Dawn disbanded three years ago and the members of Circe’s Recruits are still fighting against the men running the program, and the vicious mutant Circe’s operating under their tight-fisted and brutal control. Pearson Labs is still in operation and the Circe’s currently created are the worst yet, making it more difficult and dangerous to destroy them.

To make matters worse, Hale’s nightly dreams have turned into nightmares involving a man he knows but wishes he didn’t and a beautiful blond haired woman. They are two people meant to be his and both are involved with his enemies. This realization unsettles Hale, the man, but his beast and heart knows what it wants and it refuses to be denied the man and woman destined as his mates. Can the new mates survive the fallout when mutants attack the Recruits estate and military personnel sympathetic to their cause take down Pearson labs, or will their future together fall apart?

Circe’s Recruits: Hale is the fourth release in Marie Harte’s entertaining and intriguing shapeshifter paranormal series. You can read this book as a stand-alone, but there will be a much better understanding of the characters and ongoing situations if your read them in order, which is what I recommend.

I loved Hale in this story. He’s strong, dependable, dedicated and loyal…everything you’d want in a friend or lover. As the last member of Circe’s Recruits without a significant other, I was thrilled when he finally found his mates…that’s right, mates. The relationship between Hale, Robbie McKinley and Paige Masters might have started off a little rocky and uncertain, but it soon changes to acceptance, blistering hot passion and desire. All the characters from the first three releases play vital roles in this story, giving depth, a feeling of family, and interest to the story. Add in several new characters near the end, and you have all components needed for a satisfying conclusion to this four-book story arc.

This reader is hoping Ms. Harte will continue the fight against the mutant Circe’s and the men behind them, with Hawkins and his men, Fallon, Tersch, and Hayashi, the Circe Navy Seals, in the near future.

Lucky

Title: Lucky
Author: JJ Massa
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: N/A
Genre: Gay Erotic Romance, Contemporary, M/M
Rating: 3.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Lucky Jacobson is the star of Detective Sims’ most erotic fantasies. Sims’ blood pressure elevates every time he senses the younger man, along with a certain appendage. He’s not sure if Lucky feels the same gnawing desire but thanks to a chance meeting, he may be lucky enough to find out.

Sims and Lucky have an intense sexual attraction but that seemed to be the extent of the couple’s interaction. While the sex was charged and mixed with a hint of BDSM, there wasn’t much of an opportunity to draw any conclusions about where they were headed. In addition, the situation didn’t seem very “realistic” when the characters are placed in a compromising situation that could affect their careers. Does that take away from JJ Massa’s ability to write an enticing erotic scene? No. I found Lucky to be an enjoyable read and hope there is a sequel in the near future. It would be nice to see what happens the day after.

Bottom's Up: A Kinky Orgasm

Title: Bottom's Up: A Kinky Orgasm
Author: Amanda Young
Publisher: Amber Allure
Publisher URL: http://amberquill.com/
ISBN: 13: 978-1-60272-524-9
Genre: Contemporary, M/M
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Bar owner Briar Henley was getting ready to close when Truman Lee walks in and orders the bar specialty, a Kinky Orgasm. Briar had not seen Truman since he left town for college. Openly gay, Briar was the object of ridicule by jocks like Truman, so he is surprised to see Truman in his bar and assumed Truman did not remember him. However, Briar supposed wrong when Truman begins to flirt, then reveals he came to the bar to find Briar and that he is not the straight man everyone thought he was. Turns out Briar’s high school dream man has moved back home and is seeking to correct Briar’s assumptions by giving him proof of what he really wants.

Bottom’s Up: A Kinky Orgasm is the sensual seduction of Briar. Afraid his true nature would have a negative impact on his goals, Truman stayed in the closet during high school but once his vocation plans were accomplished, Truman set his sights on gaining the man he has long desired. Briar is realistic about his life and accepts his responsibilities, but he never expected Truman to return his feelings and want more than a one night stand. Amanda Young has created a very arousing story of postponed desires growing into a devoted relationship. I enjoyed this first story in the Bottom’s Up series greatly.

The Wagonmaster

Title: The Wagonmaster
Author: Nita Wick
Publisher: Freya’s Bower
Publisher URL: http://www.freyasbower.com/
ISBN: 978-1-935013-47-1
Genre: Western M/F, Historical
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Rose Nymph

Dr. Adelaide Jennings needs to get to her father in Baker City quickly. He is dying of consumption and she knows only too well that there’s no cure. She went through all the hard work and bullying in order to qualify as a doctor, only to learn that the best she can offer her father is comfort in his final days. She may not be able to cure him but Addie has always been a girl of action so sets out to get a place on the last wagon train heading to Oregon this year. She knows there will be protest and she knows that biding her time for a safer route to her father would be the more sensible option but when Addie decides she wants something, she can be a very stubborn girl indeed. Something Joshua Reynolds is about to find out.

Josh thought the matter was settled. The members of the wagon train that he was escorting along the trail had clearly made up their mind; this journey was no place for an unmarried young lady. However, the good doctor doesn’t seem to understand and Josh really doesn’t have the time to play her little games, however much passion and determination she shows. He certainly isn’t going to agree to such a ridiculous idea as taking her for his wife, no matter how noble her motives. However, it seems that Josh is about to learn very quickly that this strong, independent woman doesn’t take no for an answer.

The Wagonmaster has everything I love in a story; good, strong characters that I cared about, despite being in turn frustrated and amused at their predicament, combined with an interesting, believable plot that kept me reading to the end. The West, my favorite setting for romance, was portrayed well and I lost myself in the harsh yet beautiful surroundings. At just the right length, I didn’t get impatient as Addie and Josh danced around each other, attempting to predict one another’s feelings, while trying to keep a hold of their own. The mistakes both characters make as they grow to know and understand each other make their relationship all the more believable. The tease of what is to come, with characters so perfect for each other and yet being the only people not able to see it, was more than enough to keep the pages turning, with satisfying results. Add a storyline that twisted and turned, providing humor and lighthearted moments, well balanced with the pain and heartache of life in the territories and the result is a fantastic read that I highly recommend to fans of the genre.

Best of Enemies

Title: Best of Enemies

Author: Cassidy Ryan

Publisher: Torquere Press

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

ISBN: N/A

Genre: Paranormal, M/M

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Caen Nymph

Simeon, the sorcerer has a grudge against a vampire named Byron. They’ve had a feud that has lasted as long as anyone can remember. So when the bartender sees them both, he hopes they don’t trash the place but luckily for him, both Simeon and Byron take their fight outside, which is passionate and bloody as ever.

Best of Enemies isn’t a pretty romantic story that has a happily-ever-after. Byron and Simeon hate each other, and for good reason. Their fight has lasted for years and they seem to want to hurt each other, as much as they can. The characters are simply hot and the sex in this story is scorching. The bartender plays a voiceover here and it’s smartly done without the bartender feeling like an intruder. We get to see enough of the character’s back story so we aren’t lost. I’d love to see Byron and Simeon again, as the ending just left me wanting more. Best of Enemies is an enjoyable paranormal story with a twist.

Pacific Nights

Title: Pacific Nights
Author: Lynn Lorenz
Publisher: Loose Id
Publisher URL: http://www.loose-id.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59632-934-8
Genre: WWII M/M Historical
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Mystical Nymph

Sergeant Mike Dabrowski is in trouble for the illegal sale of cigars on the black market and the only way for him to stay out of the brig, and avoid a court martial, is to accept an assignment he doesn’t want. Mike’s mission is to parachute onto a deserted Pacific island with a professor proficient in Japanese, and keep him safe for three months. Their assigned task is to intercept Japanese radio traffic and/or spot enemy planes and radio the information back to an American base.

James Hamilton is a conscientious objector and brilliant Jewish mathematician. He agrees to a three months assignment translating Japanese radio transmissions, in exchange for avoidance of all future military service. He’s calm, quiet, sophisticated and worldly, which means he’s the exact opposite of Mike in every way. Despite their misunderstanding and distrust, the two men must learn to trust and depend on each other, if they are going to survive. Their relationship changes when Mike submits to James for twenty-four hours to do with as he wills, in exchange for slaking his sexual needs.

The question is whether the dreams and promises made on an island can find a place in their futures, once the war is over.

Pacific Nights is the latest release by talented author Lynn Lorenz. It’s an entertaining, fast-paced and well-written WWII novella involving two men from vastly different backgrounds, thrown together by the military under unusual and dangerous circumstances. Ms. Lorenz does a great job describing their frightful nighttime parachute drop onto the isolated island. Her vivid descriptions left me feeling as if I was actually watching as the men jumped from the plane, and then their near-fatal and painful fall into the trees below.

It’s during the first weeks on the island that Mike and James develop a grudging respect for one another, but that doesn’t mean that everything is smooth and friendly. This is where Ms. Lorenz excels. She does a very nice job expressing Mike’s confusion, anger and unhappiness at being attracted to another man. Yet, the tenderness James shows Mike opens his eyes to just what has been missing from his life, and makes him realize how much he wants to have someone care about him.

Truthfully, we learn much more about Mike’s history than we do James, but that’s all right. Whereas James knows where he’s going in life, Mike is adrift, randomly floating from event to event, never planning or thinking ahead to his future. It’s a future that includes James, if an unexpected tragedy doesn’t destroy their chance at a happily ever after. Read and enjoy!

The Highwayman

Title: The Highwayman
Author: Ali Katz
Publisher: Amber Allure
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/
ISBN: 978-1-60272-517-1
Genre: Historical/Gay (m/m)
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Satyr Vael

In an effort to escape the horrors in his past, Janos Vesh has taken up the life of a highwayman. He knows he walks a razor’s edge, but it’s the only thing he has in the way of vengeance for the horrible things done to him and his family. His only solace comes in the form of his lover Stefan, a guard.

Stefan knows it’s only a matter of time before Janos’ path ends in self-destruction. He’s tried many things to convince Janos to stop, but he’s quickly running out of options. When a robbery goes awry, Stefan has very few choices and he’s determined to do anything to save the man he loves before it’s too late.

The Highwayman is a riveting historical set in Hungary in the middle of the eighteenth century. The opening scene jerks the reader into a world of danger and a love affair that defies the odds – and the laws.

Janos is the type of man who commands attention, even when he’s trying to avoid it. His heartache is palpable and his love for Stefan is undeniable. Stefan is equally as entrancing; his care for Janos strong as he watches the man he loves slowly lose his grip on control.

The love scenes remained perfectly true to the time period and the story, as a whole, kept me on the edge of my seat. I’m always leery about historicals just because I demand realism and often, it’s not delivered when the characters end up in bed. I’m happy to say that this was not the case with this book.

If The Highwayman is anything to go by, I’ll be hunting down more from this author in the future.