Illicit (Box Set)

Title:  Illicit (Box Set)

Author:  Marteeka Karland

Publisher:  Changeling Press

Publisher URL:  www.changelingpress.com

ISBN/BIN:  07596-02449

Genre:  {M/F}, Sci-Fi, Action, Futuristic, Anthology

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Illicit Mating - 4 Nymphs

Gabrielle, along with a friend, apply to become brides for Cluath.  Worr sees them and decides they will become his and his brother’s.  The problem is there is a plot afoot to take over all the stations in space, including Earth.  Gabrielle must work alongside Worr to save both populations.

Illicit Sex - 4 Nymphs

Kil can’t believe what his brother did.  Lyra wants nothing to do with him because he thinks women should be protected and obey.  What Kil gets is a woman willing to fight for what she believes in.  Lyra is taken by enemies, and Kil finds he can’t live without her.

Illicit Craving - 4 Nymphs

Bacia arrives just in time to help her brother save his mate.  She is taking over security on the station and goes undercover.  Jaxon is an undercover agent for Earth and ends up saving Bacia from mercs working for the enemy.  As they learn to trust each other, both realize they are working to save both their worlds.

Illicit Love - 4 Nymphs

Drac is the Supreme General for the Cluath and is extremely upset about the attempts on his children’s lives.  Drac gets an unexpected visitor, Celestine, who was sent by the mercs as a gift to make him leave the Colony.  Celestine realizes Drac isn’t as bad as she had been told and ends up helping him try to end the plot against both Earth and the Cluath.

Illicit is an interesting look at a dying alien culture that has to look to other planets and races to repopulate their world.  Humans are the closest to the Cluath.  Cluath is building colonies on other planets for Earth’s population in order to survive.  Several factions on both planets want something else.

Drac and his family are fighting to make sure the populations for both planets to survive and not just the wealthy.  They end up fighting, along with their mates, to make it happen.  I really liked reading this book as the women turned out to be very strong and showed they were worthy of standing with their men, even with some of the things that happened to them.  I really liked Bacia’s story because she showed Jaxon that a woman can be a warrior too.  The four couples had some great chemistry.  The only downside in the story about Kil and Lyra was the drug and its one major side effect.  I liked that Kil did his best to remain honorable under the circumstances.

I would love to read more stories about the Cluath and Earth in the future.  While it seemed as if things were wrapped up, I felt the ending wasn’t quite what it should have been if things were completely tied up.  I enjoyed reading Illicit, as I also thought that this could be a possibility in the future if there are other planets with life.

I will be reading Illicit again.

Publisher's Note: Illicit (Box Set) contains the previously published novellas Illicit Mating, Illicit Sex, Illicit Craving, and Illicit Love. 

The Firebird and Other Stories

Title: The Firebird and Other Stories

Author: R. Cooper

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

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

ISBN/BIN: 9781634764032

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

Rating: 3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

The Firebird - 3.5 Nymphs  

What’s a firebird to do when all he has known is men who want to own him?  Now he comes across one who wants to love him and he is unsure how to act.

The Warrior’s Sacrifice – 3.5 Nymphs

For as long as anyone could remember, one of Los Cerros’ neighborhoods has been protected by the jaguars.  But that protection comes with a price and when Mateo is offered as sacrifice, he is not sure if he is glad or not.

Hyacinth on the Air – 3.5 Nymphs

Hyacinth has never met anyone as lovely as Walter but the man is shy and easily shocked.  Too bad he’s falling for a fairy.

A Giant Among Men – 3.5

Tank is used to everyone being afraid of him, until he finds someone he no longer wants to be “Tank the Troll” for.

The Imp and Mr. Sunshine – 4.0

Wherever Rennet is, chaos is sure to follow.  Sometimes that’s good and other times, not so much.  While Rennet maybe use to it, he doesn’t want John getting hurt in the crossfire.

The Wolf in the Garden – 3.5

Miki wants someone to spend the rest of his life with, but his garden is a little hard to get over.  When Diego makes it in, Miki wonders if he has found his someone special.

The Dragon’s Egg – 3.5

Arthur doesn’t know how to react when he finds an egg in the front room, especially after his boyfriend claims it’s theirs.

The Firebird and Other Stories is the fifth book in the Being(s) in Love series.  This new story is a little different from the others in that it is an anthology made up of seven stories that cover a vast period of time.  The stories also have a variety of beings taking center stage, some of whom show up later as secondary characters, or if you are paying attention, just making a cameo appearance.  While the stories were all good, it was The Imp and Mr. Sunshine that I really enjoyed.

The reason this was my favorite is simple, the characters.  Rennet is an imp who is tired of playing second fiddle to fairies, being compared to demons, and loves to blow things up.  John is the deputy mayor, a human, and hopefully Rennet’s lover.  Neither of these characters is perfect, nor are they model material.  Yet, each has something that draws the people around them in, something that is not always a good thing in Rennet’s case.  These two also had me laughing, especially Rennet. 

Fans of this series are sure to love this new book and the various characters in it.  

Unconventional in San Diego

Title: Unconventional in San Diego

Author: Anthology

Publisher: Pride Publishing

Publisher URL: www.pride-publishing.com

ISBN: 978-1-78430-687-8

Genre: {M/M} {M/M/M} Paranormal

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Unconventional is the name of a drinking establishment where the paranormal and some of the more adventurous humans get together.

   

 Fate’s Bridge by Carol Lynne – 5 Nymphs

The plot is an especially sensual vampire ménage. The characters are Bodi, a laid back amiable human turned vampire after a deadly attack. Bodi is the link that unites Roman, a centuries old vampire searching for the return of his first love’s human soul and Alexi, a vampire who secretly loves Roman.

My impression, together the three have achieved their forever love destiny.

Coming in Third by Amber Kell - 5 Nymphs

The plot is an amusing mixed species ménage. The main characters are Niall, a member of the fae royalty who is cursed with an abusive controlling mother. Jovan and Luka, cat shifters who are convinced after one night together that Niall is their mate and determined to claim him.

My impression, I was hoping someone would magically zap Niall’s mother or at the very least, the cats would bite her.   

The Unicorn Said Yes by T.A. Chase - 4.5 Nymphs

The plot is a dark fantasy. The main characters are actually the innocent victims of a sinister plan to restore a perverted family’s long ago depraved notoriety. Carney is an outcast in his family, which makes Carney the perfect lure to entrap Ivan, the unicorn king.

My impression, honor triumphs over betrayal and trust can lead to love.

    

Blood on the Moon by Jambrea Jo Jones - 4.5 Nymphs

The plot is a mystery. The main characters are Kishar, an incubus ruled by his moral values rather than his deadly hunger. This makes Kishar a disgrace to his cold hearted mother, but a perfect mate for the fashion conscious righteous witch, Montague.

My impression, for every evil action, karma delivers a more powerful reaction as Kishar’s mother can attest to as she undergoes licentious detoxification.

A Sliver of Sunset by Devon Rhodes - 4.5 Nymphs

The plot is a poignant love story. The main characters are Angelo, an ocean shifter facing a battle with leukemia and Dominic, a human and a nurse in the cancer hospital.

My impression, fate brought them together at a time when Angelo desperately needed a loving mate the most. 

Buzz & Blow, Shave & Shimmer, Fade & Fluff

Title: Buzz & Blow, Shave & Shimmer, Fade & Fluff

Author: Alex Carreras

Publisher: Wilde City Press

Publisher URL: www.wildecity.com

ISBN: 978-1-925313-17-8

Genre: {M/M} Vampire Anthology

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Three stories each are featuring a different vampire couple. The plot is set in Sangre, Florida. The characters share common interests, as well as common goals. Everlasting Salon is located directly across the street from Killer Kuts barbershop, which is considered to be second-rate according to the salon hairdressers. Nevertheless, the aristocratic hairdressers develop permanent relationships with the common barbers. When a psycho vampire threatens to destroy the peace of the vampire community, the hairdressers and barbers ban together to exterminate the perpetrator.    

Buzz & Blow - 4 Nymphs

Hairdresser Asher comes from a long line of stylist to the aristocrats. He misses the days of powered wigs. However, Asher cannot deny his attraction for Niko, a barber. Niko, who grew up poor, comes from Cuba. Niko is attracted to Asher but was always afraid of being rejected.

Shave & Shimmer – 4 Nymphs

Hairdresser Tory is looking for a soul mate and he believes he has found a mate with the barber Ray.  But Ray is so steeped in seeking revenge that he could not recognize the love Tory offered.

Fade & Fluff – 3.5 Nymphs

Jerrod is the owner of Everlasting Salon; he also is a social snob. Jerrod has secretly loved Kairon, the owner of Killer Kuts on and off for centuries.

Overall the stories are sweetly romantic as well as amusing. The fight scenes are interesting, but have a confusing conclusion. In the final fight scene, Jerrod attacks the psycho and then the storyline switches to an intimacy scene with no explanation of what happened to the criminal. I can only surmise that there will be another story or that readers must come up with their own finale.  

Butt Riders On The Range

Title: Butt Riders On The Range

Author: Anthology

Publisher: Wilde City Press

Publisher URL: www.wildecity.com

ISBN: 978-1-925313-12-3

Genre:  {M/M} Comedy

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Hung Like A Horse by JP Barnaby - 4 Nymphs

Horse shifter Riley Harper is as skittish as a colt, always afraid someone would discover his secret. Fortunately, Riley’s days of hiding comes to an end when he meets John North, a Missouri farmer who turns out to be Riley’s new protector, friend and lover.  A striking heartwarming romance, the characters are engaging with a touch of amusement.

Chinchilla Chimichangas by Kage Alan - 4 Nymphs

Chris, along with his very opinionated imaginary friends, is taking a Route sixty-six trip mapped out long ago by his father. Detoured by a storm to a small farming community in Oklahoma, Chris meets Cameron, the cowboy of his dreams, as well as sanctioned by his make-believe friends.  The imaginary friends are especially humorous and contribute a pleasant balance to an emotional theme.

  

Squatting With Spurs On by Kiernan Kelly - 4 Nymphs

Live, love and repeat this is the magical time warp Dooley McCallister and Buck Caldwell are caught in. Dooley has no memory of his previous life spans, but fortunately Buck remembers each and every one. No matter the current century, Buck and Dooley always go back to their first Montana home together.  This story gives a humorous innovative meaning to the turn of phrase “I will always love you”.

Faux Cowboy by Shae Connor - 3 Nymphs

Doug Shaw heads to New York in hopes of having a little fun. Growing up on a farm in Wyoming did not offer much for a gay cowboy. However, meeting the cowboy pretender Jackson James at a western themed saloon soon fulfilled Doug’s erotic riding desires. Enjoyable as a one time read only, the casual hook-up theme did not exhibit any noteworthy actions or believable personality qualities. The unexciting one-dimensional characters did not completely employ my interest.   

Hooves And Horns by Eden Winters - 5 Nymphs

Kerry Abrams is a champion bull rider and Armando is a champion bronco rider. Though Kerry and Armando enjoy pleasing their rodeo fans as well as each other between shows, the secret to the lover’s rodeo success is that they are both shifters.  The character interaction is laugh out loud hilarious; I enjoyed the vibrant descriptions that draw the reader into the storyline.

The Boy From Battalion Bluff by Jevocas Green - 5 Nymphs

High noon everyday the townsfolk would gather on Main Street. The men gathered in hopes of being selected and the women gathered in envy to watch Dr. Feel-Good walk down the center of the street. The Doc’s mission was to select one lucky man to receive the Doc’s special brand of relaxing therapy. After waiting for months for his chance, Toby, the stable boy, finally got lucky. The principle of this plot is the old west meets another world. The storyline features exceptionally loving characters and a blissful conclusion.

The Five Hells War by Ally Blue - 5 Nymphs

Sometimes it is the little guy who wins. Salvador Flint owns a small ranch surrounded by greedy corporate ranchers willing to try everything, including hiring corporate lawyer Balthazar Shellenbarger to force Salvador out of business. But upon meeting Salvador, Balthazar found Salvador to be an honest man with a skill for more than ranching. The setting is not Earth, however the corruption illustrated in the plot is a realistic image of Earth. The storyline provokes outrage and the characters encourage cheers.   

And The Horse He Rode In On by TC Blue - 4 Nymphs

Texas sheep rancher Tyler and poacher Jason is an unlikely pair of shifters, yet there is an undeniable attraction between them that works. Of course it took months for the two to find common ground. Nevertheless Tyler and Jason managed to work through their differences to become lovers. The main features of the plot are an amusing dialog merged with compassionate characters. 

Overall, Butt Riders On The Range is a marvelous assortment of incredibly entertaining stories.

Semper Fidelis

Title: Semper Fidelis

Author: Anthology

Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing

Publisher URL: totallybound.com

ISBN: 9781784304300

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

The main theme of the anthology is gay men in the military after the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell rule had been rescinded. Even though the laws have changed, the attitudes of homophobic people remains. Because of the closed minded society, some of these men in uniform are still in the closet.  

Anomaly by S.A. McAuley - 4 Nymphs

On loan to a government testing facility, Marine Galen Welc discovers an IED is not the only combustible he will encounter when Galen meets the aerospace engineer who designs military drones.

     

Always Ready by T.A. Chase - 4 Nymphs  

Eighteen years ago, Coast Guard rescue swimmer Dean Jacobson’s mother rejected him because he was gay, but the parents of his long term boyfriend Phil Rhodes, welcomes Dean into their family with open arms.

A Ring and a Vow by Devon Rhodes - 4 Nymphs

Marine and Navy have been officially joined together, at least in the case of Owen and Cary who celebrated their military wedding after five long years of separation, due to the war in Iraq.

My Marine by LE Franks and Sara York - 4.5 Nymphs

Not everything is what it seems to be for Marine Intelligence unit Captain Sean Kelley and Afghani Translator Akim Bijan, but deception is part of war.

Soul Sick by Kendall McKenna - 4.5 Nymphs

Marine Captain Jamie realized that not all wounds are physical; war takes a psychological toll that could be deadly for his lover Tucker.

Safe Shores by Morticia Knight - 4 Nymphs

A Coast Guard rescue becomes personal for Shane when the son of his lover Kirk is in jeopardy of drowning at sea during a storm. 

Semper Fidelis is an impressive collection of enjoyable stories illustrating that, regardless of a person’s sexuality, honor, bravery and a strong sense of duty are the only activities that should be measured by the public.

Velvet Diamonds

Title: Velvet Diamonds

Author: Sean Michael

Publisher: Torquere Press Publishers

Publisher URL: www.torquerepress.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-61040-826-4

Genre: {M/M} BDSM Anthology

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

The release of Velvet Diamonds brings together in one anthology five previously published shorts that all take place in the world of the BDSM club, the Velvet Glove. The stories cover differing needs of the participants, and the plot lines vary from tender, sweet and those that are more sexually dominant in nature. Take a look and hopefully you’ll find something that appeal to you.

A Bird in the Hand - 3 Nymphs 

I like Kestrel and Jim and always enjoy seeing them as secondary characters in one of the ‘Glove books, but I have missed how they got together. That’s why I’m pleased their story is included in this release. While Kestrel’s mannerisms are a little over-the-top, he’s a nice guy and Jim is too. The story is sweet and the pacing is even but the descriptions lack the details to tell the reader where the story is taking place. It could be happening anywhere in the world, instead of the one the ‘Glove’ series is set in. That’s the biggest problem with this short—it’s not grounded in its setting.

A Peace Within the Quiet - 4.5 Nymphs

Gloucester and Katashi are new characters to me and the telling of their meeting and the gentle developing of the relationship is lovely. The background of each is placed nicely and the vivid details and ceremonial mannerisms of Katashi pulled me into the story. The pacing flows evenly, and while there are plenty of emotions expressed, they’re calm and controlled. I like these guys and would enjoy seeing them again.

Love and the Farmer - 3.5 Nymphs

This is a quick look at hard-to-control sub, Love, and visiting Farmer, Freddie. There’s lots of anger and emotions in the beginning coming from Love. It ultimately gets him disciplined and taken to Freddie where they have a vividly described BDSM scene. The read is quick and pacing smooth, but the ending is very abrupt.

Three to Heal - 4 Nymphs

Jean was severely burned in a bombing, leaving him terribly scarred. People stare at him, which makes him uncomfortable. Being introduced to Richard and Noel changes his life. This short is different than many of the other ‘Glove’ releases because of Jean’s injury history and its aftermath. This is a lovely example of how people are more than what you see on the outside…you have to look deeper than the skin and scars, and that’s exactly what Richard and Noel did. It’s tender but sexy; shows fear but hope and has a storyline and characters that pulled me in immediately.

Raw Need - 3.5 Nymphs

Issak is a high-powered businessman but he’s also a sub with needs of being totally dominated. This trip to the Velvet Glove, his Top is Car and the new experiences shake Issak to his core. This addition to the anthology is all about giving a sub what he needs; so while there’s a portion of set-up where Issak and Car met and come to terms, the remainder in all a BDSM scene. The pace is even, there are brief flashes of previous characters and there are good descriptions but I feel no attachment to either character. 

Creature Feature 2

Title: Creature Feature 2

Author: Rhys Ford and Poppy Dennison

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN: 978-1-63216-384-4

Genre: {M/M} Anthology

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Rise of the Revenants by Poppy Dennison - 4.5 Nymphs 

A Detroit home renovation has released the vampyres trapped in the basement for centuries and the creatures are hungry for blood. Paranormal hunter Taz Cohen is called in to eliminate the blood thirsty mindless killers, but Taz’s specialty is werewolves. Taz gets the help he needs from one of the renovators Darren Foster. Together, Taz and Darren not only make a good team as hunters; they also make a great team in a romantic relationship.

Legacy of Blood and Death by Rhys Ford - 4.5 Nymphs 

Hunter Javi Navarro is no stranger to hunting vampyres. Nevertheless, destroying a dozen dark magic vampyres before they kill more of Detroit citizens requires the assistance of the mage creator’s ancestor Ciarnan Mac Gerailt.  Ciarnan is a blood mage who deserted the dark arts after almost losing his own life. The immediate attraction between Ciarnan and Javi as well as a night of intimacy finally convinced Ciarnan to cast one last dark magic spell to save the city’s inhabitants. Ciarnan had walked away from the Evil practiced by his family; nowadays Ciarnan is a shunned mage targeted for death.

Creature Feature 2 is a thrilling as well as very enjoyable saga. The combined good versus evil stories exhibit almost non-stop intense lethal attack scenes with all kinds of mystical creatures. The moments of intimacy displayed between the couples are especially tender.  

Mating Season Box Set

Title:  Mating Season Box Set

Author:  Anne Kane

Publisher:  Changeling Press

Publisher URL:  www.changelingpress.com

ISBN/BIN:  07072-02278

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

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Imperial Command -- 4 Nymphs

Danika runs from the marriage her mother wants and runs right to Gregory, who turns out to be her bond-mate.  A few secondary characters help the two find out more about each other and fight to keep them together.

Imperial Temptation – 4 Nymphs

Bryony left Tanner because of her fears and could not accept they were bond-mates. Bryony and Tanner find each other again.  Tanner and Bryony, along with Bryony's adopted daughter, become a family after a traumatic incident.

Imperial Haven – 4.5 Nymphs

Caitlyn is a thief and gets caught in Kyran’s trap.  Kyran forgoes the bounty on Caitlyn, once he realizes she is his bond-mate.  A few of Kyran’s friends help keep Caitlyn safe.

Mating Season was a fast paced read that had a slightly different take on shifters.  One of most interesting facts about the Imperial Were-panthers was that once they found their true bond-mates, they started to shift involuntarily. Each story had a different flavor within the story.

While the chemistry for each pair was intense, each couple had to come to some understanding with each other.  The women gave each man a run for their money and some of the situations were humorous.  I hope some of the men listed in Kryan’s story will get their own mates.  Each man was sure they would never find their mate, though Kryan was the only one with a human mate, all had the same reactions. 

One thing about Mating Season I had a little trouble with was that almost the same blurb about the Imperial Were-panthers was before each story and became very repetitious. The various stories individually were okay, though I loved Caitlyn and Kyran’s story the best. 

Midnight Rodeo: Homecoming

Title: Midnight Rodeo: Homecoming

Author: Kiernan Kelly, Julia Talbot and BA Tortuga

Publisher: Torquere Press

Publisher URL: www.torquerebooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-61040-777-9

Genre: {M/M} Anthology

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Welcome to the Pack by BA Tortuga - 4 Nymphs

Pack tradition required Denver to come home and take his place as Alpha since his twin brother had been killed by a demon bull. Denver expected to be challenged for the alpha position, but what he did not expect was to discover that a mixed blood wolf named Blaine is his mate.   

Oklahoma Rain by Kiernan Kelly - 4 Nymphs

The rodeo employees consider each other as family; nevertheless in every family there is always one member that is an outcast. Blaze, a psychic, had been tormented for years by a vindictive troll until Zack joined the rodeo family. Zack’s powers could fling large objects into bone breaking deadly heights including the hateful troll obsessed with Zack’s new lover Blaze.   

Big Bear, Little Bear by Julia Talbot - 4 Nymphs

Grizzly bear Ozzie is overjoyed when black bear Ben returns, but something is different about Ben, his bear form is in hiding. Ozzie is on a mission to discover what happened to Ben during his head injury treatment as well as assist the healing process with love.

Midnight Rodeo: Homecoming is a collection of three impressive romantic paranormal stories written by three creative authors. The stories illustrate natural animal behaviors with an entertaining twist. All the stories are heartwarming with fascinating characters. Each couple consists of individuals close to their own breed. I thoroughly enjoyed Midnight Rodeo: Homecoming.  

An Unconventional Chicago

Title: An Unconventional Chicago

Author: Five Author Anthology

Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing

Publisher URL: totallybound.com/

ISBN: 9781784301453

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating:  4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

An Unconventional Chicago is one enjoyable story divided into five segments written by five very talented authors. The main theme features brutal greedy mobsters controlling the entire city including a cesspool of dirty politicians. Chicago is divided into territories with a different mob family in charge. However, there is an underground movement working to take back the city with the help of mob defectors seeking revenge. The secondary theme highlights the clandestine romantic relationships.    

No Bravery by T.A. Chase - 4.5 Nymphs

One power hungry brother will do anything and everything to control the family’s territory, including sending his older brother Farris away to be tortured for years. But Farris finds an ally in his driver Darien. Together, Farris and Darien set the wheels of revenge as well as justice into motion.  

Love Don’t Die by Jambrea Jo Jones - 4.5 Nymphs

One of the dangers associated with living in Chicago is that a relationship between the privileged gang members and a lower class man is forbidden. Former gangster Dutch joined the rebellion to stay close to his lover Moran; their only hope for survival is to get out of town, which is an almost unattainable prospect.  

Passion Under Fire by Stephani Hecht - 4.5 Nymphs   

The revolution is heating up, moving ever closer to taking down the mob. Fed up with his gangster brothers, Georgio becomes allies with the underground along with his lover Tito. But after a shootout with the mob, Georgio and Tito are now on the run.

Ganging Up on Love by Amber Kell - 4.5 Nymphs

Dirk completes his mission for the rebels when he delivers the evidence to resistance leader Leon. The good news is there is an immediate attraction between Dirk and Leon; the bad news is the rebels are plagued with mob spies and betrayal. 

Bonfire Heart by Devon Rhodes - 4.5 Nymphs

The chokehold on Chicago has finally been broken, thanks to deputy mayor Thierry and his lover Eduardo who were instrumental in breaking the mob’s domination.  

Vaaden Warriors

Title:  Vaaden Warriors

Author:  Jessica Coulter Smith

Publisher:  Changeling Press

Publisher URL:  www.changelingpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 06881-02216

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

Rating:  4 Nymphs                          

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Vaaden Warriors is the second book in the Galactic Affairs series and centers around three warriors we met in the first book.  Rheul’s brother purchases a slave for him, Randar ends up with two slaves, one as a favor to a friend, and Thale has to overcome his past to finally get his dream.

Rheul - 4 Nymphs

Rheul isn’t happy with his brother, but ends finding Darcy fascinating.  After all is said and done, he ends up endangering his life, as he wants to give Darcy time to get used to her life as his slave. 

Randar - 4 Nymphs

Randar purchases a slave, Lyssa, as a favor to Rheul, but ends up buying a second one to better meet his needs.  Sophie is the type he always envisioned, but didn’t realize he wanted until he had purchased Lyssa.  Circumstances change his outlook, but he must find a new owner for Lyssa, or he can’t be happy.

Thale - 4 Nymphs

Thale has not had the best of luck with his slaves in the past, but ends up purchasing one from the harems.  Moira slowly makes her way into his heart, but he has to convince the prime minister and council he has changed his tune.  

I loved the ending in the last story, as it was difficult to think there would not be some changes.  I would have liked to find out more about what the other stipulations were that would be going into the law, but only two were listed.  I’m hoping in future stories more information will be given about it.  The differences among the men make for interesting reading.

Vaaden Captives

Title:  Vaaden Captives

Author:  Jessica Coulter Smith

Publisher:  Changeling Press

Publisher URL:  www.changelingpress.com

ISBN/BIN:  06794-02187

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

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Vaaden Captives is the first book in the Galactic Affairs series and is a collection about three women.  Facts about Vaaden society is given, though some of it is not pretty.  Non-Vaaden women are slaves, personal if they are claimed, or placed in public harems if not.

Sorcha - 4 Nymphs

The first story is about Sorcha, who is unhappy when she realizes her owner is married, because she believes in fidelity.  Thale tells her she has to accept her lot in life now, regardless of her beliefs.  When Sorcha meets Thale’s brother, Valen, she falls for him.  After some serious problems between the brothers, things are resolved.

Enid - 4 Nymphs

Enid is the second slave’s story.  I found Bastian interesting because he understood immediately that Enid had been abused and eventually fell in love with her.  Bastian ends up asking the prime minister to bend a few rules for him.

Susan - 4 Nymphs

The third story is about Susan and gives the reader more information about Vaaden marriages, as well as some of the protections slaves have on Vaaden.  Even as Susan accepts her lot in life, things conspire to make some changes that will make her life easier. 

The collection of stories in this book are intriguing in a lot of ways.  I enjoyed reading about the world the author created, even as I got upset about some of the societal mores on Vaaden.  I do want to find out more about Vaaden society and what changes may be in the future based on the special permission given to the three warriors.  I am looking forward to the next book.

Big Bone Lick Pack

Title: Big Bone Lick Pack

Author: Jambrea Jo Jones, Kendal McKenna, Cherie Noel

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02013-0192

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal Anthology

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Devil Dog and Bad Wolf by Kendall McKenna - 4.5 Nymphs

Thinking about his future career opportunities, Marine Seth Price was not prepared for the event that almost cancelled his life. Seth is attacked by a bear while camping and saved by a big grey wolf. On the other hand, according to official reports, Seth was rescued by Boone County Sheriff’s Department patrol sergeant Asa Wilde. Being a human, Seth did not believe werewolves really existed, so did he dream the wolf chased off the bear or was it a memory?

The Big Bad Bear by Jambrea Jo Jones - 4.5 Nymphs

Deputy in the Boone County Sheriff’s office, Kane Farkas is not happy to be working on his day off.  Nevertheless, there is a rogue bear roaming around in the state park. Kane tracks the bear that significantly injured Seth. He immediately realized Dov Barrett is a bear shifter, suffering from a major headache, along with being clueless as to how he came to be in his wretched condition.

Shifty Fox Shennigans by Cherie Noel - 5 Nymphs

Nurse Simon Vacchio is having a dreadful day. First Simon is asked to work a double shift, then upon leaving Seth’s hospital room, Simon is sniffed as well as given strange looks. Simon is perplexed by the weird stares directed his way. Could it be the British smell differently than Yanks? Even Simon’s secret crush, Dr. Josiah Swift gave him a sniff before dazzling Simon with a big smile. 

Big Bone Lick Pack is a marvelously entertaining blend of stories by three amazing authors. The setting is a State Park in Kentucky. The residents are werewolves mated to non-wolf species. The engaging plot features the alpha, one of his betas plus an omega. What I found extremely enjoyable is that the characters are compassionate, intelligent as well as hilarious. The in-depth intimacy demonstrated by the mated couples is scorching.

Butt Pirates in Space

Title: Butt Pirates in Space

Author: Anthology

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02013-0064

Genre:  {M/M} {M/M/M} Sci-fi

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

What to Expect When Your Boyfriend is Expecting by Shae Connor - 4 Nymphs

On the all-male planet of Lalande, biologist from earth Zeke and his Lalandian boyfriend Zeph’s steamy prenatal lovemaking timetable is interrupted by a pirate’s kidnapping scheme.

Spacehunters by Kage Alan - 3.5 Nymphs

Former soldiers, as well as victims in a war to exterminate all homosexuals, gay couple Chace and Jayden are on a mission to steal a priceless artifact. Their ultimate goal is to build a long range spaceship so they can leave the territories controlled by Earth. The storyline is filled with an abundance of snarky dialog making it difficult to follow the actual plot.

B’Utopia by Kiernan Kelly - 4 Nymphs

Captain Jarrick Freeman was a loyal company man until he and his crew were deemed disposal employees. It was only the timely actions of pirate Captain Rictor Horn that changed Jarrick’s state of mind from company loyalty to seeking revenge.

Free Gift with Purchase by TC Blue - 4.5 Nymphs

Romantic relationships had been forbidden aboard the pirate spaceship Mama. To remedy this problem, the captain kept good-timers on board, professionals who serviced all of the crew without becoming emotionally attached to any one partner. However, first mate Valmark soon realized his happiness was dependent on his rare, exotic and incredibly passionate free gift.

Pride of the Rangers by Angelia Sparrow - 4 Nymphs

Lieutenant Cliff Cody of the Space Exploration Rangers has been stripped of his rank, as well as sentenced to life on an agricultural penal colony. With the aid of a fellow inmate, Cliff escapes to a pirate’s spaceship. Nevertheless, sometimes justice is a mystery, wearing a variety of facades.

Butt Pirates in Space is an exceptionally enjoyable collection of humorous stories ranging from sensual to kinky intimacy.  

Creature Feature

Title: Creature Feature

Author: Anthology

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN: 978-1-62380-430-5

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Diagnosis: Wolf by Poppy Dennison - 4 Nymphs

There is something different about Caleb DiMartino but there were no medical charts to give private nurse Andrew Hughes any clues to the illness afflicting Caleb. What Andrew did notice was that there was a mutual attraction between them. Andrew’s assistance in searching for answers concerning Caleb’s infirmity leads the DiMartino family to the culprits.

Landslide by Mary Calmes – 4 Nymphs

Paranormal courier Frank Corrigan is perfect for his job; he’s human but can resist most paranormals. The only exception for Frank is his sexy boss, Cael Berith. Frank is convinced that Cael is only interested in sex for one night. However, Frank begins to see the truth when problems arise that only Cael can resolve.

Creature Feature is a delightful and enjoyable anthology. Both stories are a romantic comedy, with a touch of action, along with a few homophobic secondary characters illustrated. In Diagnosis: Wolf I particularly enjoyed the description of the wolf’s playful antics.          

Cereus: Opening

Title: Cereus: Opening

Author: Sean Michael, Julia Talbot and BA Tortuga

Publisher: Torquere Press

Publisher URL: www.torquerebooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-61040-373-3

Genre: {M/M} Anthology, Paranormal

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Pack Rules by Julia Talbot and BA Tortuga - 5 Nymphs

Mixed mating can be difficult for a couple, which is the case of werewolf Donovan and vampire Mik. After being unhappy and apart for five years, Donovan decided it was time to throw out the traditional pack rules in favor of reuniting with his true mate Mik.   

Downward Dog by Julia Talbot and BA Tortuga - 5 Nymphs

Werewolf Rian is an excellent yoga instructor, however he is not so good with being a wolf. But there is hope for Rian when he meets his mate, werewolf Gilead, who is a superb teacher in the arts of werewolf courtship and love.

The Bear Facts by Sean Michael - 4.5 Nymphs   

Polar bear Nuk was not in search of a mate when he arrived at the resort for a month long vacation, nevertheless, shortly after meeting sorcerer-in-training Al, Nuk soon realized they were truly bear mates.

Jonny’s Epilogue by Julia Talbot - 4.5 Nymphs

Vampire and owner Jonny is brought up to date on the Cereus Resort staff and opening by werewolf Duke, who is the manager. Jonny is so pleased with this project, he is now thinking of expanding.     

Opening is the second book in the Cereus Series.  Each segment features a different couple and is a continuation of the overall story beginning with the first book Cereus: Building. The plot is exceedingly amusing, highlighting the characters at play in their animal forms. The theme is all about romancing your mate including scorching displays of intimacy. The Bear Facts is the only segment with BDSM. Otherwise, I found Opening thoroughly enjoyable.

Unconventional at Best

Title: Unconventional at Best

Author: Anthology

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing

Publisher URL: www.total-e-bound.com

ISBN: 978-1-78184-060-3

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

A New Normal by Carol Lynne - 4 Nymphs

This story is a contemporary and heartwarming second chance at romance. Charlie Foster is a musician living a lie to please his family. Jake Pierson becomes an author to heal his broken heart after Charlie marries. Life changing events, remorse along with the courage to accept who you truly are reunites Charlie and Jake in love once again.   

Convention Confusion by Amber Kell - 5 Nymphs

Faith plays a role in this humorous paranormal romance when human Billy Ferris discovers he is the chosen mate of alien Jennvian Fellows. Though Billy had doubts, with Jenn at his side, Billy decided leaving his lonely life on earth presented no hardship.

Ninja Cupcakes by T.A. Chase - 4.5 Nymphs

Compassion for the family and friends in his life inspires Ethan Gallagher’s special cupcakes. The secret all-natural ingredients Ethan blends into his cupcakes are the source of matchmaking for couples who are meant to be together, including his own long-awaited match with the man of his dreams, Callum MacLaughlin.

Operation: Get Spencer by Jambrea Jo Jones - 5 Nymphs

Sometimes love can be sneaky, taking a leisurely friendship route before manifesting into erotic dreams. This is what happened to Benjamin Saylor. Ben had always enjoyed the times he and his best friend Spencer Wilde spent together. Considered a straight man, it is up to Ben to convince Spence love is not about labels; love is sharing your life with whoever makes you happy.  

Fan-Tastic by Stephani Hecht - 4 Nymphs

Pride and talent is all Blake had left after paying the expenses necessary to, hopefully, sell his comic books. However, Blake’s former high school crush, Deke, persuades Blake to set aside his pride for a long term loving relationship.

Rough Awakening by Devon Rhodes - 4 Nymphs

Starting the dating process can be a challenge especially then you have been absent for years. Mario had always considered himself to be the captain in intimacy. However, meeting Jordan has shown Mario that there are just as many benefits in being a team player when Jordan is the captain.

Unconventional at Best is a fascinating collection of contemporary romantic short stories. All the stories exhibit engaging characters, emotional drama, a dash of humor, sensual lovemaking and happy endings.  The anthology displays the writing styles of six exceptional authors. I thoroughly enjoyed Unconventional at Best.