Cowboy Take Me Away

Title:  Cowboy Take Me Away

Author: Lorelei James

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61922-397-4

Genre: {M/F} Contemporary Series

Rating: Recommended Read

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Carson McKay wants Carolyn from the moment he sees her across the dance hall floor. She’s gorgeous, sexy and the woman meant for him. He knows it. She’s not convinced, which is why Carolyn slugs him on the jaw when he tries to steal a kiss. It doesn’t deter Carson…it just makes her more perfect.

Carolyn might have attended a catholic school but she’s not innocent. She doesn’t trust the sexy cowboy but when he kisses her again, she practically ignites. Then the truth comes out. His last name is McKay and their families have been fighting for decades. Carolyn will have to ignore the feuding, and look past his shallow exterior to see the good man underneath if she wants to find the happily ever after that will give her decades of love.

Cowboy Take Me Away is the sixteenth and final book in the Rough Riders series by Lorelei James. I admit it. I can’t believe this beloved series has come to an end with a story about the couple that started it all. I’m so glad Ms. James allowed the Rough Riders to come full circle with the telling of how Carson and Carolyn met and had a life together. It now seems complete.

As I sat down to write this review I realized that as much as I’d enjoyed the other books, I loved this one…everything about it, and I rarely say that. It’s definitely my series favorite. Once I started reading, I didn’t want to stop and over 400 pages are hard to finish in one day, but I managed. 

There’s a lot going on in this book…drama and family, and yes it would be great if you’d read some of the previous books, but I think this one can stand on its own. Even though Carson and Carolyn have been in the periphery of earlier books, we didn’t know much about their personalities but here we learn about them as people…and I like them. I didn’t expect the book to start in the present and then jump into the past with a series of flashback scenes from both their perspectives. I’m not a huge favorite of this technique but here it works well, and it’s a perfect plotline answer. It allows you to discover so many things about their life together, whether good or bad, funny or sad…and yes, you might need tissues. The plot pulls in their kids, uses great imagery, has a smooth pace, plenty of surprise, lots of sex, and the pain and drama…it’s heart wrenching. This well written and complicated story is really all I could have asked for in Carson and Carolyn’s book. I hope you’ll give it a try. You won’t be sorry. Enjoy.

Reluctant Consort

Title:  Reluctant Consort

Author:  Lora Leigh

Publisher:  Ellora’s Cave   

Publisher URL:  www.jasminejade.com

ISBN/BIN:  9781419938962

Genre:  {M/F/M}, Fantasy Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Arabella knows she is going to die at her father’s hand.  The only regret she has is that she will have to give up her two warriors. Her brother asks for help to save her life, unaware that Caedan and Daelan will be the ones to come for her.

Reluctant Consort is the fourth book in the Wizard Twins series.  Ms. Leigh has created a wonderful complex magical world.  The previous books don’t need to be read in order, but future stories following Reluctant Consort will if the ending is any indication of what is to come. 

Arabella is a Sorceress who is half human.  Along with Caedan and Daelan, Arabella is actually going to usher in a new age in magick, but there are some major obstacles to be overcome.  The author went into more detail about the area where these men are from, as well as what they are.  Even though they are twins, they are not royal and are surprised when they realize exactly what Arabella is and that she is theirs.  Their chemistry is explosive when they get together. 

As the story progresses, several twists occur that some secondary characters create, but others have solutions to.  As this series progresses, readers will learn more about this wonderful world that Ms. Leigh has created.  Her fans will enjoy this series.

Reuniting Galerir

Title: Reuniting Galerir

Author: Anna Lee

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02014-0261

Genre: {M/M} Fantasy Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

The kingdom cannot prosper without trust. Having defeated the evil plaguing Galerir, King Tomas and his knight Griffin set about gaining the trust of all the residents, including the magical creatures.

Reuniting Galerir is the third book in The Galerir Saga. This is an incredibly heartwarming plot blended with deadly magical fights, fascinating creatures plus sensual expressions of Tomas and Griffin’s love for each other. The dragons are the main focus in the storyline. Dragons have been the protectors to all the kings of Galerir. Now that Tomas is king, a young dragon named Sera is the guardian of Tomas and his lover Griffin. Sera was with her two charges throughout the battles fought to destroy evil.

Tomas began his journey with two goals, the first goal has been accomplished, the second goal was to obtain community acceptance regarding his secret commitment to Griffin.  What Tomas and Griffin discovered is that the only objections they encountered to having two males as Galerir’s rulers were those who greedily sought to gain access to the throne by forcing their unwilling daughters into attempting to seduce Tomas. 

Anna Lee has created an incredible finale to The Galerir Saga.  I especially enjoyed all the fantasy creatures. The Prince of Galerir is the first book in the series, followed by The Battle for Galerir. I suggest reading the books in sequence.

And Call Me in the Evening

Title: And Call Me in the Evening

Author: Willa Okati

Publisher: Loose Id

Publisher URL: www.loose-id.com

ISBN/BIN: 9781623001179

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Series

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Zane and Eli have been a couple for awhile but they still have issues—trust and open communication being at the top of the list. They love each other and have a good life together so that should be enough, but not knowing what your partner is thinking can cause more problems than you realize.

That becomes obvious when they’re home from their latest assignment with Medicins Sans Frontieres. Zane loves traveling but Eli is ready to settle down and open his own clinic. Unfortunately, they can’t talk without Zane getting angry and when Eli’s ex-wife comes to town, their problems only get worse. With their life suddenly so unsettled it’s no wonder Eli’s having chest pain—and not telling anyone. Can they work through their problems or will Eli’s pending health crisis destroy their future?

And Call Me in the Evening is the second release in Willa Okati’s And Call Me in the Morning series. Due to the ongoing relationships of the characters, you need to read the books in order.

I can’t believe it’s been four years since we first met Zane and Eli. I loved these guys when they were introduced and feared there’d never be any further books about them. Imagine my surprise when I came across the blurb for their new story and realized the long awaited second book was finally here. I was shocked—and pleased—and happy.

These two are a good match, but each is full of flaws and insecurities. The author did a great job of describing the rollercoaster of emotions experienced, showing they aren’t perfect but full of human failings. They’re really likeable men, dedicated, responsible and loving but they don’t communicate well and that’s where the trouble in their relationship begins. They keep their feelings bottled up and don’t talk. That’s my big niggle. Eli didn’t talk, Zane got angry. I’m not a big fan of using lack of communication for the serious trouble in a characters relationship, while in reality I know it happens. It’s a catch-22.

I liked how the secondary characters are woven into the story. These individuals are wonderful friends to Eli and Zane and its nice seeing them again. The imagery is vivid, the dialogue snappy and there’s plenty of drama. And Call Me in the Evening is well written, full of pain and angst—but most of all love. I’m not going to deny that it isn’t perfect, but overall I found it enjoyable and entertaining, and I want more about these two loving men in the future.

Perfect Imperfections

Title: Perfect Imperfections
Author: Cardeno C.

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN: 978-1-62798-878-0
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Rose Nymph

When rock star Jeremy Jameson wanders into the bar Reg Moore is working at, the pair fall into easy conversation. Reg recognizes the musician but can tell that the man is looking for some much needed anonymity, so just acts his usual laid back, friendly self. At first, Jeremy thinks the barman can't have recognized him, he's so used to getting a reaction, but he has to admit it's nice to be treated as just a regular guy for once.

They hit it off, and Jeremy finds himself talking more with Reg in one night than he has with anyone else in a long time. There is just something about the guy, and before he knows it, Jeremy is inviting Reg on his upcoming tour. Reg has always wanted to travel the world, and the opportunity to do it with such cute company has Reg jumping at the chance. As for Jeremy, he has never been able to relax and be himself around someone like he can with Reg, and having him by his side to ground him and keep his ego in check is just what the doctor ordered. Jeremy's relationship history is rocky at best however, and it's not long before past failures have him counting down the days until Reg gets bored with him and the rock star lifestyle. Will Reg be able to persuade the talented superstar that he has fallen for the man behind the legend?

Perfect Imperfections is a very enjoyable read, with entertaining characters who are immediately likeable. I read this book on a long haul flight and it was the perfect way to wile away the hours. I recommend to any fan of the genre as it has a really engrossing storyline and some scorching scenes between Jeremy and Reg. Personally, Reg is my favorite character, as he is relaxed and easy going, but focused on making Jeremy happy – a dream come true to me. Jeremy is anything but the stereotypical rich, young, spoiled brat rock star. Through Reg we get to dig under the surface to see that Jeremy is kind, gentle and much in need of love. Of course, he is far from perfect, and I love how Reg can accept all of the musician, imperfections and all. What's even better, he helps Jeremy accept them too. The author did a good job of teasing me, testing my patience as our two guys figure each other out, and the ups and downs of being famous were also interesting to explore.

Lesser

Title:  Lesser

Author:  Viola Grace

Publisher:  eXtasy Books

Publisher URL:  www.extasybooks.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-77111-956-6

Genre:  {M/F}, Paranormal, Sci-Fi, Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Iridia is surprised that she is chosen to be a Guardian, then Avatar of a planet. Her ability to become invisible to those around her is what made her the best candidate.  Zanthan was raised by the planet and is Iridia’s co-Avatar.

Lesser is the eighth book in the Terran Times Second Wave series.  I found the description of the planet, Tharos Prime, to be very interesting. The planet destroyed the entire population after the populace murdered his Avatar, and Tharos Prime is slowly trying to recover from the destruction he wrought by allowing inhabitants back to his surface.  The descriptions the author gave of the various peoples, including the Guardians, allowed to populate the planet was interesting. I loved the description of the “Blue Fairy” as the description was clearly in the realm of science fiction.

I had to laugh at Zanthan’s mother.  She was so concerned about someone taking advantage of him, she didn’t listen to her own star that she was the Avatar for.  Tharos Prime was a big surprise.  There were a few interesting and humorous moments as the Guardians introduced themselves to the various groups on the planet.

The chemistry between Iridia and Zanthan was hot.  They had some communication issues to get through, once Iridia realized Zanthan knew she was his co-Avatar.

Ms. Grace has created some wonderful and interesting worlds to put this series.  Fans will not be disappointed.  I am looking forward to the next book in this series.

Pets

Title: Pets

Author: Mychael Black

Publisher: Changeling Press

Publisher URL: http://changelingpress.com/

BIN: 07017-02260

Genre: {M/M} Urban Fantasy

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Ian Bishop found love where he least expected to find it, in the arms of Terian Thunderhoof.

Pets is an enchanting short story romance. The characters inspire a warm happy feeling in the area of the heart as well as a smile on your face.

Ian is a man of integrity who values all life.

Although on opposite sides of the war, Terian is drawn to Ian whom he suspects is a compassionate man. A few months after the war ended, Terian’s suspicions about Ian are proved correct when he claimed Ian as his pet. 

Mychael Black has created a very enjoyable snippet that is an ideal break from the daily routines.      

The Art of Breathing

Title: The Art of Breathing

Author: TJ Klune

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press  

Publishers URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 9781627989268

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary, Sequel

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Changes are coming to Tyson’s life and the young man can’t help wondering if they are coming faster than what he is ready for.  The biggest change will be leaving Dominic behind and that is the one that plays the biggest part in how Tyson’s life turns out. 

The Art of Breathing is the sequel to Who We Are by author JT Klune.  Readers will want to make sure they read these stories in order, as the history of the characters is important.  In The Art of Breathing, The Kid takes center stage and I loved that the author starts this book off with a prolog so that the readers can get reacquainted with the main characters before jumping into the meat of the story. 

While there are several light hearted moments in this book, and times you will have to keep yourself from laughing out loud, this is not always an easy story to read.  In fact, The Art of Breathing is full of angst and more than once I found myself close to tears.  Tyson, who we all know as The Kid, has more than his share of issues and, as he is the center of this book, the reader will soon become familiar with all of them.  Some may not agree with the direction in which the author has taken Tyson, but given what has happened in his past, the issues that the young man faces are realistic and the author handles them in a believable way. 

Once the romantic relationship between Tyson and Dominic starts, the reader can’t help but hope things will start turning around for Tyson. However things don’t work out that smoothly.  There are a lot of obstacles that these two have to overcome; thankfully they have a lot of ‘family’ members there to help them.  This means the readers get the chance to catch up on several previous characters.  Many times when they show up laughs are sure to follow. 

Although the relationship between Dominic and Tyson is a primary part of the story, the family relationship with Tyson, Bear, Otter, and Tyson’s mom and little sister is just more important at times than the one between Dominic and Tyson.  There were times that I worried about the relationship between Bear and Tyson but could understand Tyson’s need to stand on his own two feet.  

There were a few little twists that I did not see coming and I loved the little cliffhanger the author ended the story on.  There is still one story left before we will have to say good bye to this group of characters and, while I am curious to see what will happen next, I hate the idea of saying good bye.  If you have not tried any books by this author, then you should start with the stories of Bear, Otter, and The Kid.  

Dare To Love Forever

Title: Dare To Love Forever

Author: JC Wallace

Publisher: Amber Allure

Publisher URL: www.amberquill.com

ISBN: 978-1-61124-610-0

Genre: {M/M} Vampire Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Tabula Rosa vampire Carson Locke is starving, yet the thought of biting someone nauseates him more than the thought of dying a slow painful death. Nevertheless, Sanatore vampire Lincoln Samuels decides Carson is worth saving. Fortunately Carson survives, unfortunately Carson becomes something the vampire world has never seen before in addition to Carson is now bonded to Lincoln.

Dare To Love Forever is the first book in the New Vampire Justice series. This story has a fast paced exciting plot. The theme’s focus is the extent of corruption a psychologically disturbed fanatic will go through to achieve power. The plot is a combination of humor, political affairs, mystery, gripping action, as well as sizzling intimacy. The interaction between the characters is entertaining.

Carson has been thrust into a world unknown to him after his mother was killed. He was taught as a child that his bite could destroy others, so he vowed never to feed directly from another. Before meeting Lincoln, Carson’s emotional state was in such a deep depression his body could not heal. Although Carson is a dangerous vampire when warranted, he has the personality of an incredibly kindhearted man.

Lincoln heads a team in the New Vampire Justice police force. He is protective as well as compassionate to everyone who deserves it. Lincoln sensed there was something special about Carson, so Lincoln took a chance that Carson would not resurrect another chaotic experience of rejection like the one in Lincoln’s past.

JC Wallace has created an extraordinarily enjoyable saga. Carson and Lincoln are so attuned to each other it creates an especially romantic picture of forever lovers. I look forward to the next episode.

Blood on the Ice

Title: Blood on the Ice

Author: Katriena Knights

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publisher URL: www.samhainpublishing.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61922-136-9

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Hockey. It’s ring wing Travis Payne’s life. His dream of winning the Stanley cup is one step closer when the Chicago Blackhawks win a place in the finals. His future changes one night when he’s attacked by a vampire and he wakes up in a special room at the Cook County Morgue. Travis isn’t human any more…his rights have changed and he can no longer play hockey in the NHL.

That doesn’t mean Travis can’t play hockey for the local vampire hockey team, the Chicago Cobras. Unfortunately, being a vampire means the Stanley Cup will forever remain out of reach. Travis isn’t happy and it’s up to Cobra captain Marcus Antonius to teach him how to survive in the vampire world and to deal with his new teammates and their style of hockey.  The former Roman gladiator would also like to help Travis directly into his bed. Can Travis let go of his old life and make a new one with Marcus?

Blood on the Ice is by a new author for me—Katriena Knights.  It has two things I love, vampires as the main characters and hockey, so I had to give it a try. What more could I want…a well written story of a human learning to be a vampire while battling the NHL.

It’s an interesting twist on the genre—vampires out in the world and openly playing hockey. I loved the details of Travis trying to handle being a new vampire. It’s one of the things that really set the story apart. It covered the hard parts of his new life instead of glossing over them, and showed his uncertainty and emotions during this difficult time. This transition phase is also a good way of getting Marcus into his life…and this guy is interesting and seen so much during his long life. I like him and together he and Travis make a good couple.

What I liked: It’s obvious the author knows her hockey from the vivid imagery used in the rink during practice and in the games. The action is fast paced and realistic. There are several wonderful secondary characters that really flesh out the story. In fact, I’d like to see more of them and could see Blood on the Ice being the first book in a vampire hockey series.

My niggles: The set up was a little long—meaning Travis and Marcus didn’t meet for several chapters. That being said, the guys didn’t get their relationship started for awhile and didn’t get physically close until maybe 70% through…but it was hot and sexy. Enjoy.

Diego

Title: Diego

Author: Angel Martinez

Publisher: MLR Press

Publishers URL: http://www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN/BIN: MLR-1-02014-0254

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Fantasy, Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

After the challenges Diego and Finn have faced, they are looking forward to some peace and quiet.  However, when Finn returns early from a business trip and finds Diego in a compromising position, Finn is unable to control his powers and things go from bad to worse. 

Diego is the second story in the Endangered Fae series.  While I always recommend reading a series in order, it is possible to read Diego even if you have not yet read the first book, Finn.  For those who have read the first book, the author very easily pulls you back into the world in which this series exists.  Right from the start, it seems like you are reconnecting with old friends and, as Finn and Diego prepare for Finn to leave for a few days, the reader can’t help but worry about Diego.  The chemistry between the main characters is just as strong as it was in the beginning and when they come together they heat up the pages, and while this is an important part of their relationship, it is not the one that plays the biggest role in this story. 

Instead, Diego takes the readers into the realm of the Fae.  The men do not travel to this world together and their journey back to each other is full of adventure.  But it is not until Diego, Finn, and several of the Fae find themselves back in Montana that things really get intense.  There are several times when I worried about the characters in this story and wondered a time or two if Diego would ever be the same after they meet up with members of the government. 

Diego is a fantasy/paranormal story that has something for everyone.  This series made me a fan of the author’s and has ended up on my must read list.  I am looking forward for the next book in the series and am curious to see in what direction the author is taking it.  

Flux Orbit

Title: Flux Orbit

Author: Emily Veinglory

Publisher: Loose-Id

Publisher URL: www.loose-id.com

ISBN: 978-1-62300-145-2

Genre: {M/M} Science Fiction

Rating: 3 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Political deceit condemns Earth’s last survivors to a lifetime spent on a spaceship. Greed, as well as corruption, sets the ship on a path of destruction.

The theme of Flux Orbit is somewhat confusing. The space ship Apteryx is the last ship to leave Earth. With no destination charted to another planet, the spaceship has been hovering over the flux planet for fourteen years. What I found perplexing is the dialog of Kell, whether it was his thoughts or he was conversing with the alien. The development along with the purpose eluded me.

The characters did not fully engage my interest, although there were moments illustrating a possible romantic attraction between Jorihn Parr and Kell. All of the characters are devoid of emotional displays associated with humans. 

Flux Orbit is a Here and Now saga. The segments of the storyline I could comprehend I found enjoyable. 

Put a Ring On It

Title: Put a Ring On It

Author: Sean Michael

Publisher: Torquere Press Publishers

Publisher URL: www.torquerebooks.com

ISBN/BIN: None listed

Genre: {M/M} BDSM Series

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Billy and Montana are at the Hammer with their friends to celebrate the first anniversary of Jim and Marcus. The party goes smoothly until an issue arises with Montana about the possibility of marriage. Then a misunderstanding occurs over something simple, making Billy realize that something’s wrong. Why is Montana reluctant to consider marriage? Billy has to figure out how to reconnect to the man he loves. Will it lead to a stronger relationship and marriage, or not?

Put a Ring On It is the latest release in the Hammer Club family of books. Because of the ongoing relationships, it would be beneficial if you’re familiar with the characters before reading this short.

I admit it. I love the Hammer and the couples that frequent it and Billy and Montana are one of my favorites. Having this short start on a happy note and quickly move to one of misunderstanding and conflict wasn’t something I expected for this couple. They’ve been together for a decade but the prospect of a change is troubling for their relationship. The author does a good job of explaining the emotions of both Billy and Montana and how Billy goes about trying to fix what’s wrong. 

The pacing is smooth and the imagery good. As expected, after Billy and Montana return home, there’s lots of sizzling sex to work through their problems. I do wish that there had been more time spent actually dealing with their issues, instead of the quick gloss-over that’s covered here. I did appreciate the unique ending and I think you will too.

Strength of the Mate

Title: Strength of the Mate

Author: Kendall McKenna

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02014-0257

Genre: {M/M} Shifter Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Not everyone is qualified to be a leader; good principles must be ingrained in the personality. Because of the werewolf society management fails at Camp Fallujah, Iraq, the Marine True Alpha Noah sends his Omega, Dawson Rivers to investigate and correct the problems. Upon arrival at the camp, Dawson discovers he has an ally as well as a mutual attraction with Adam Madison.

Strength of the Mate is part of the Tameness of the Wolf Series. The plot exhibits the tense apprehension expected in a war zone environment. Military procedures, along with living conditions, are illustrated. The storyline also gives an insight to the political associations of war. The characters are amusing and engaging as well as believable.

Dawson is a werewolf peacemaker with Marine integrity, very approachable to everyone. However, Dawson has an inimitable power that can cause any combatant to promptly coward down. Dawson had a brief acquaintance with Adam stateside, since Dawson worked with Marine Major Tim Madison who is Adam’s older brother. Meeting Adam again at the camp only enhanced Dawson’s budding attraction into a full blown desire to have Adam as his mate.

Adam is a human civilian contracted by a private business to drive fuel tanks between military bases. This is a very dangerous job; nevertheless Adam almost has a death wish because of a tragedy from his past and he is now suffering from survivor’s guilt. Adam may have a few issues but he is by no means lacking in courage. Adam has zero tolerance for bullies, he is not afraid to take whatever action necessary to stop abuse. Adam’s honorable traits are very much attuned to Dawson’s personality.

Kendall McKenna has created an outstanding saga. The interaction between the congenial characters along with the detailed description of the wolf activities is superb. I thoroughly enjoyed Strength of the Mate.