There’s This Guy

Title: There’s This Guy

Author:  Rhys Ford

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

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

ISBN: 978-1-63533-499-9

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Jake is living a life he hates.  He works hard at a job that makes him money and cares for a father he wishes would die.  He dreads going home and being alone, not sure if he will be around the next morning.  Then Dallas comes into the picture and Jake must face the truth he has been hiding for so long.

I am a big fan of Ms. Ford and have her on my must buy list.  I think it is important that readers know that this story is a little different than what we normally see.  Readers should know that There’s This Guy also has themes that can be triggers for some readers.  For me, this was one of the author’s best stories and I could not put it down.  From the first page, I was pulled into the story.  Jake made me cry and many times I worried about how this story would end but I should not have worried as the author does an outstanding job with Jake.

Jake is a welder.  While he works hard at his job, it is his art that keeps him going.  He comes from an extremely abusive childhood and, at times, I could not decide who I hated most, his father who was the abuser, or his mother who turned her back on Jake when he needed her the most.  Because of the abuse and the way he was raised, Jake is full of self-hatred.  The way he handles it will leave you crying so be prepared. 

The other main character in this story is Dallas.  Dallas comes from a loving and accepting family.  He is openly gay and does not care what others think.  He’s bought the building across the street from where Jake works and plans on turning it into a club.  From the moment he sees Jake, he is pulled to the other guy but knows not to pin his hopes on anything.  When he finally meets Jake, he is even more drawn to him but can clearly see that the other man is haunted by something.  The two men are drawn together and slowly Jake learns to accept himself but it is not an easy road.  I love the passion that exists between Jake and Dallas and love the way Dallas is there for Jake along his journey.

The one similarity between this book and the others the author has written is the wonderful secondary characters that are present.  Some are there throughout the whole story like Celeste, while others pop in for short periods of time like Dalllas’ mom.  Regardless of how long they are in the book, they play important roles in the story and help move it along.  

From beginning to end, There’s This Guy will hold your attention.  Fans of Ms. Ford’s are sure to love this book as it is one that stays with you long after you finish.  

Two Cowboys and a Baby

Title: Two Cowboys and a Baby

Author:  BA Tortuga

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

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

ISBN: 978-1-63533-385-5

Genre: {M/M}, Western, Contemporary

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Release Date: March 15, 2017

For the most part Hoss has everything he needs.  It’s not until he finds a baby on his front porch that the cowboy realizes what has been missing.

Two Cowboys and a Baby is Ms. Tortuga’s contribution to Dreamspinner’s Dreamspun Desires line.  Fans of the author are really going to love this new story as it has everything we look for from her.  This story is also a great starter story for those looking to try the M/M genre or this author for the first time. 

The characters are well written and pull you into their story right from the beginning.  Hoss is a busy man.  He runs a ranch and occasionally rides in the rodeo.  When he has the time, he hangs out with his best friend, Bradley.   Bradley is a jack of all trades.  He lives in an old trailer on Hoss’ ranch.  He doesn’t need much and works just enough to get by, leaving him plenty of opportunity to hang out with Hoss.  What neither of these guys know is that the love they have for each other is returned.  Although this by itself would lead to all kinds of problems, the author throws in a little twist in the form of an infant.

Only in a small community, or romance book, would a sheriff let two men, who find a baby on their porch, take said child home.  Yet that is just the case in this story and, as Hoss and Bradley learn to care for Shayanne, they also learn more about each other.  I really love the connection that exists between these two men and seeing it grow was fun to watch.  I also loved the way they are with baby Shayanne and seeing them shopping at Walmart made me laugh. 

There are many times in this book when the readers will find themselves laughing out loud.  But that does not mean this is a light read.  There is a twist with Shayanne that I did not see coming and it has a strong effect on the men’s new relationship.  This twist also reveals a secret regarding Hoss, that made me a little mad on his behalf.  There are some great secondary characters in Two Cowboys and a Baby that help move this story along.  Hoss’ mom is something else and, more than once, I had to laugh at the things she said. 

Readers are sure to enjoy the way the author wraps up this story.  From the characters to the situations that pop up around them, there is something for everyone.  This is one book I will be re-reading again.

Not His Type

Title:  Not His Type

Author:  Cameron Allie

Publisher:  eXtasy Books

Publisher URL:  www.extasybooks.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-4874-0965-4

Genre: {M/F}, {F/F/F}, Contemporary, Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Brooke does not want to be the liaison between her boss and Gabe when she goes home to care for her dying mother, especially since Brooke and Gabe do not have a good history.

Not His Type is the second book in the Unexpected Changes series.  Even though there may be a few triggers for some readers in this book, it did a good job letting readers know some of the major issues Brooke faced while in high school. In one sense, I am not sure that in real life, because of their past, Gabe would have started dating Brooke. 

Gabe has several women he has sex with in a group.  He manages to talk Brooke into going to his room and participating in sex with his ‘girls’.  Gabe is surprised when he starts to have feelings for Brooke and gets upset when he realizes she doesn’t want to continue their relationship after her mother dies.

Several of their friends have plenty to say since they know what happened in high school and Brooke’s best friend with benefits also has a lot to say to both.  Between him and Brooke’s mother, Gabe finds out about the reasons Brooke behaved the way she did, and why she missed so much one year in high school.  Gabe’s family also has some interesting things to say, including encouraging Brooke to hang in there. 

Not His Type was an unexpected story that was intense, but very informative about issues regarding cutting, anorexia and stalking.  The author did a good job integrating these issues into the story and showing how relationships can evolve despite very rocky beginnings.  I am looking forward to the next stories in this series.

Love by Design

Title: Love by Design

Author: Sam B. Morgan

Publisher: Loose Id

Publisher URL: www.loose-id.com

ISBN: 978-1-68252-289-9

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Benjamin McIntyre is torn between pleasing his very traditional father and being happy in his personal life. For Ben, true happiness can only be found in the arms of Jeremy Lanzo.

Love by Design is a charming on and off romance. Ben and Jeremy have a mutual attraction to each other, but both men desperately try to hide their feelings.

Ben is bisexual and the vice president in his father’s international commercial construction company. He has an exuberant personality that works well for gaining new clients. However, his personal desires also show in his demeanor when Jeremy is within Ben’s sight.

Jeremy is openly gay and the lead designer at McIntyre. Although he has been in love with Ben for several years, Jeremy has the capacity to hide his emotions well or at the very least keep a safe social distance between them.  

Sam B. Morgan has created an enjoyable saga featuring some of the pitfalls of an employer / employee relationship. 

The Prize

Title:  The Prize

Author:  Ashe Barker

Publisher:  Totally Bound

Publisher URL:  www.totallybound.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-78651-122-5

Genre: {M/F/M}, BDSM, Contemporary

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Jessie wins a raffle that entitles her to one free month at the Vivant Club.  Along with the membership, she gets to have a night with two of the Doms in the club.  What she gets is Mark and Greg.

The Prize is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I really enjoyed her knowledge of the subject matter.  This is a fast-paced intense story about the first night Jessie claims her prize. The Vivant Club is an exclusive BDSM club that caters to some very wealthy people and has some very stringent requirements. I loved the butler and Jessie’s reaction to him.

Jessie is very surprised when she first arrives at the club.  Once she finishes the paperwork, she meets Greg and Mark. The scenes and chemistry between the three are very intense.  Both Doms are very knowledgeable and no-nonsense about what they want from Jessie. 

In the future, I would like to know more about the Vivant Club and possibly what happens to Jessie, Greg, and Mark after this first night.  I will be reading The Prize again in the future.  

Readers should be aware that this book was part the His Domain anthology by Totally Bound.

Oops!

Title: Oops!

Author:  Anne Kane

Publisher:  Changeling Press

Publisher URL:  https://www.changelingpress.com

ISBN/BIN:  07866-02538

Genre:  {M/F} Contemporary, Guilty Pleasures, Humor

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

They say things happen in 3’s and these three friends definitely make some things happen.  Caroline, Jackie and Stephanie have come up with a plan to save their business.  These ladies are the proud owners of a quaint bed and breakfast.  Or, at least they were until they discovered some illegal changes in the paperwork, which now has them evicted. 

The friends refuse to take this lying down so they decide to snatch the traitorous man who caused this.  They would convince him to do the right thing by giving him the scare of his life.  In theory it sounded like a plan that couldn’t fail, but in reality things took a left turn right from the beginning.

Jebediah kept telling the ladies that he wasn’t the man they were looking for, but they refused to listen.  Truthfully, they all seemed kind of frightening, except for Jackie.  Something about her was calling to him, so Jebediah became less upset about being tied up. His hands ached to have a much better purpose, if only he could convince Jackie to untie him. 

Eventually the ladies realize their mistake, but not before things take an erotic turn. The whole situation brings out things in Jackie that she has never acted on and Jebediah is about to lose control.  Just when it seems all hope is lost, Jebediah gives the ladies some information that saves their bed and breakfast. 

Something about kidnapping a man and having him helpless gives every woman a rush.  Oops!, the first installment of the Yule Tied series was an adventure gone wrong but man, it couldn’t have ended more perfectly.  I felt like I knew this group of women so I knew they wouldn’t hurt a fly.  I was shocked because I thought all of them were more straight laced, and boy was I mistaken.  Jackie had no shame in her game when it came to Jebediah and I liked that about her.  She gave her two girlfriends a show I doubt they were expecting.  Thank goodness Jebediah was on their side.  This quick read has everything from comedy to action and adventure.  The ending was so clever and unexpected, I loved it.  Anne Kane did an outstanding job on kicking off this series, and readers will be missing out if they don’t pick this one up.

The Last Dance

Title:  The Last Dance

Author:  Kierney Scott

Publisher:  Loose Id LLC

Publisher URL:  www.loose-id.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-68252-219-6

Genre: {M/F}, Suspense, Contemporary

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Georgina ends up working as a spy because she started using cocaine to lose weight when she was vying for the prima ballerina spot in the ballet company she was working for.  Her latest target is not someone she wants anything to do with.  Roman knows Georgina is a plant, but can’t resist her.

The Last Dance is a story of a woman trying to survive her past and the mistakes she made.  Once she gets involved with Roman, her life changes as she is caught between her handler and Roman, two very dangerous men.

At first this story starts slow, but picks up as it goes along.  The chemistry between Roman and Georgina is hot, but things are complicated by the fact Roman knows she is supposed to target him.  There are some facts that Georgina is not aware of about her handler that make what happens toward the end surprising, as I certainly did not expect some of things that happened.

I do have to say, I didn’t like Roman at that point at all.  The reasons are all explained at the end, and Roman and Georgina do get their happily ever after, but I’m not sure I would have been as forgiving about what he did. 

The other characters in the book are a mixed bag.  Some I liked, but even then, what they did and who they worked for sent a lot of mixed signals when it can to helping Georgina.

I would say this story could be a cautionary tale for women who want to work in other countries.  Once the story picked up, it was one I had to finish.  This was also the first book I have read by this author and will be looking for more.

The Outfielders

Title: The Outfielders

Author:  Robert P Rowe

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

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

ISBN: 978-1-63477-868-8

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary, Sports

Rating:  4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Tony had his life planned out, but as often happens in real life those plans get tossed around until he is only living day by day.  With all his dreams dashed, at twenty-four,

Tony finds himself still living at home worrying that things are never going to change.

Tony is gay, but because he has grown up in a small town and is worried about what his family will say he does nothing.  He was planning on coming out while away at college.  But things don’t go as planned, and Tony finds himself working at the big box store that is slowly killing the town he lives in, instead.  If it wasn’t for his few friends, and the store’s baseball team, Tony doesn’t know what he would do.   

One of those friends is Alex.  Alex also works at the big box store and has been friends with Tony for some time.  But Alex does not know that he is the object of Tony’s secret crush.   When Tony’s “girlfriend” decides to help him get the man of his dreams, things go a little crazy.  

I loved the way the author used a gay romance story to help Alex and Tony find their way.  At times, it does get a little confusing, but bear with it.  There are a lot of emotions in The Outfielders.  From the confusion, friendship, lust and love that Tony and Alex feel, to the anger, fear, and acceptance that several of the secondary characters go through.  There are also moments of laughter.  More than once, i found myself laughing, usually at Tony’s expense.  The scene where Tony’s father gives the young men a new set of speakers is really over the top.  

The Outfielders is my first book by Mr. Rowe.  I enjoyed this story, especially as I live in a small rural town and could see the similarities between my town and Mr. Rowe’s fictional one.  The characters in this book are also well done, even the secondary ones.  I found myself curious as to how the story would play out, and i think others will like just as much.  

An Honorable Man

Title: An Honorable Man

Author: Sandrine Gasq-Dion

Publisher: Wilde City Press

Publisher URL: www.wildecity.com

ISBN: 978-1-925506-29-7

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

The hunter is stalking New York City; his prey are the rent boys working the streets.  After several of his friends are found dead and a close call with the serial killer himself, Bobby Laughlin leaves town. However, Officer Danny Finnegan has volunteered to go undercover and needs Bobby’s help. Working together, Danny and Bobby end one of the nightmares plaguing Manhattan.

An Honorable Man is the seventh book in the Men of Manhattan series. In this episode, the series features the dark side of a city and continues the mystery highlighted in A Selfless Man. As the suspense builds, you start to see that Danny and Bobby not only become lovers, but they work well as a team also. Their compatibility almost screams permanent relationship.

Bobby is an orphan with heartbreaking beginnings, but he learned to survive the hurdles life threw at him to become a stronger man. Being a rent boy was considered necessary when no other options are available for a homeless gay teenager.

Danny is an openly gay man who always wanted to be a cop. As a teenager, Danny knew his sexuality would be a problem for some people, so Danny trained for years in martial arts to become a kick butt police officer that only a deadly weapon could best.

Sandrine Gasq-Dion has created an intriguing saga. An Honorable Man is very enjoyable with a few unexpected twists. One scene I could visualize is Danny dancing on stage to one of my favorite tracks of music. Plus, following the pattern of clues, I could guess the identity of the killer. However his reason for the killings was a total shocker.

Heat Wave

Title: Heat Wave

Author: Lena Matthews

Publisher:  Loose Id, LLC

Publisher URL:  http://www.loose-id.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-68252-195-3

Genre: {M/F} Contemporary, Interracial

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

The California heat is causing all kinds of problems for Breanna Cole.  Her plan was to be seductive, but instead she winds up looking like a helpless and needy woman.  If things don’t change quickly, Breanna is going to wind up going home without crossing the line of “friendship” with the one man she’s been lusting after for years.

For as long as he can remember, Jordan Austin has considered himself to be Breanna’s big brother.  He feels responsible for her, so there is no way he can stand by and let Breanna suffer because of the heat.  Jordon thought throwing a pool party would be the best way to blow off some steam, but the moment he sees Breanna’s swim suit, he knows he made a mistake.

Jordan and Breanna have been dancing around the simmering heat between them for years.  Being thrown together by Breanna’s brother has finally caused the simmering to morph into a pot that boils over.  I almost felt bad for Jordan, because he had no choice but to surrender.  But considering that it was a win-win situation for him, I had to dance with joy.  Breanna pulled some great tricks, and thank GOD she did!  I must admit, I was not expecting that reaction from the brother.  Just when I think I had everything figured out, Lena Matthews tricked me and I love that.  This story will leave you sitting in front of a fan for sure.  Heat Wave is one of those stories that will leave you laughing and longing at the same time.  Pick this one up for sure.

Love And War

Title: Love And War

Author: M.O. Kenyan

Publisher:  Beachwalk Press

Publisher URL:  http://beachwalkpress.com

ISBN/BIN:  9781944270254

Genre:  {M/F} Contemporary, Interracial

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

Guillermo de Castillo doesn’t want to have fun on his birthday, the first one without his twin brother.  All of his attention is centered on finding the woman who ruined his family.  When punishment and passion merge, Guillermo is torn.  The guilt he feels over wanting Raven is clouding Guillermo’s judgment where his brother is concerned.  Is it possible he didn’t know his brother as well as he thought?

Raven hopes she can delete the memories of her abusive relationship from her mind when she looks into the warm eyes of a stranger.  He’s so familiar and yet so different at the same time.  Sleeping with him was no mistake, but it definitely complicates things when she discovers his identity.  Her daughter has to come first, so Raven is willing to do anything to protect her.  Both mother and daughter have gone through so much, Raven isn’t sure how much more they can take before life breaks them.

Kismet is a strange thing when it brings together Raven and Guillermo.  Raven is in celebration mode, while Guillermo is mourning his brother.  He is clueless as to how hard things have been for Raven and he sees her as an awful person.  Raven quickly lets him know that his brother was not as good and misunderstood as Guillermo thinks.  Though she shares some very deep things, she doesn’t tell Guillermo everything about her daughter, Maya.  Guillermo is determined to use Maya against Raven, but he develops feelings for them both so quickly, his plans change. 

Love and War touched me in many ways.  There are so many women like Raven.  She definitely deserved a second chance at love.  I am so glad Raven had a good friend and a mother to support her.  Maya’s situation just made me so sad each time I read about her problem and how helpless Raven felt in fixing it.  I was shocked how she didn’t realize who Guillermo was when she saw him, but perhaps ignorance was bliss for her.  Guillermo seemed to have a huge weight on his shoulder and I was glad to see that lifted.  Raven was the only way for him to move on and at first, he didn’t get that.  In the beginning he was so arrogant and by the end of the story he was just a big softie.  I love Guillermo and I know readers will be so touched by this story.  

Initiation

Title:  Initiation

Author:  Sierra Cartwright

Publisher:  Totally Bound

Publisher URL:  www.totallybound.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-78651-082-2

Genre:  {M/F}, BDSM, Contemporary, Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Jennifer is interested in BDSM, but is very unsure about what she wants, so she tries an experiment with a Dom that leaves her wanting.  Logan sees her and is interested, but is not sure he wants to take on an inexperienced sub.  Choices are made after some mutual friends set them up.

Initiation is the first book in the Master Class series and the title is very apt as Jennifer learns about what she wants and what she can handle. Ms. Cartwright has done it again with her insight into the BDSM lifestyle.  Readers will note how references are made to Jennifer’s safe word and the word to say when she needs to slow down and discuss something to become more comfortable. 

Logan has had some problems in the past with women not understanding his job as a private investigator and the hours sometimes involved.  Jennifer has also had problems with men not understanding her need to stand on her own and her dreams of owning her own business.  While there is a misunderstanding as Logan finishes up a case, an understanding between the two is reached. 

The chemistry between Logan and Jennifer is hot. The scenes are very intense and the descriptions will make you squirm in a good way. 

I am really looking forward to reading the rest of the Master Class series.  Those that are familiar with Ms. Cartwright’s books will not be disappointed with this one.  In my opinion, Ms. Cartwright is fast becoming one of the top authors within the BDSM genre. 

Readers should be aware that this book has been revised and re-edited for this publisher.

Clan McKinloch: The Boxed Set

Title:  Clan McKinloch: The Boxed Set

Author:  Kaitlin Maitland

Publisher:  Loose Id LLC

Publisher URL:  www.loose-id.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-68252-176-2

Genre:  {M/F, M/M/F, F/F, M/M}, Contemporary, Collection

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Stars, Stripes, and Xmas Bells - 4 Nymphs

Trip McKinloch is in the Air Force and will be returning to his unit the next day.  When he meets Ashton at a Fourth of July celebration, they spend a wonderful night together.  What happens when they meet at Christmas and realize they have not gotten each other out of their system makes for some family drama for Trip.

Hearts, Candy, and Clover - 4 Nymphs

Gavin McKinloch opens his own bakery, but is still hurt over the situation with Ashton and Trip.  Ashton’s best friend, Luce, hangs around and wonders how she can make Gavin realize she’s the one for him while Gavin is trying to figure out if Luce could love him.

Kiss Cam Connection - 4.5 Nymphs

Micah and Brody have been together for five years, but they haven’t been able to find a woman they both can love.  They help out Nena at a ball-game, but forget to get her contact information.  Using the missed connections listing on Craigslist, they end up finding Nena.  Despite the men knowing she is what they want, Nena must make the decision to be part of a ménage relationship.

Junebugs, Haunted Houses & Jack o’Lanterns - 4 Nymphs

Donal McKinloch is trying to come to terms with his wife, Stacey, wanting a divorce.  A lot boils down to miscommunication and Stacey’s parent’s expectations.  Once Stacey realizes what is going on, how can she make it up to Donal, especially since she has to face his family as well.

Cupid, Mardi Gras & Auld Lang Syne - 4 Nymphs

Zoey has always known she is attracted to women and she is extremely attracted to Morrie McKinloch.  Morrie only knows she has difficulty with men but never considered another woman until her brother dares Zoey to kiss her.  Morrie now knows what she wants, but knows it won’t be easy coming out to her family.

Roses, Rallies, and BBQ - 4.5 Nymphs

Ossian McKinloch has decided he won’t start a relationship since his last one ended badly.  What he doesn’t count on is meeting Jax, Brody’s business partner, and his attraction to him.  The two men’s friendship becomes love, though both have some obstacles to overcome.

The Clan McKinloch Boxed Set has all five stories of the McKinloch series.  Kiss Cam Connection is part of the Missed Connections series but is a tie in to the McKinloch stories as well.  The McKinloch siblings work in the family pub with the exception of Trip, which doesn’t sit well with his parents.

I loved reading about all of them, but my favorite McKinloch sibling has to be Ossian also known as Oz.  My heart broke a little as I was reading his story and what happened between him and his friend from the Marines.  I hated Luke’s wife and was very relieved when Oz decided to try another relationship when Jax came along. 

Each story has a unique situation that each sibling has to overcome due to what is supposed to be a family curse.  Reading each story does give credence to the curse based on the trouble each sibling has getting to their “happy ever after”.  I will be reading these stories again in the future.

Marriage of Inconvenience

Title: Marriage of Inconvenience

Author: M.J. O’Shea

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

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

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-63477-528-1

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary, Dreamspun Desire        

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Release date: Aug 15, 2016

Kerry has always wanted to be a publicist for A-list celebrities.  He knows he has to pay his dues, but he’s tired of monitoring Twitter and Facebook accounts while everyone else gets the plum jobs.  When actor Jericho Knox screws up big time, Kerry finally gets his turn to prove himself, but is this really what he wants.

Let’s address the elephant in the room before going any further.  Marriage of Inconvenience is predictable from the very beginning.  If you ever read one of the many Harlequin romance books back in the day then the feel of this story will be a familiar.  That does not mean that this is not a book worth picking up. 

Kerry is out of his depth in Marriage of Inconvenience.  The career he has always wanted is not what he thought it would be, something that becomes clearer when he is thrown into the middle of a sex scandal.  I could not believe that Kerry did not think things through when he agreed to become “the man on his knees” in the photo that exposes Jericho Knox.  At the same time, I could not help but feel a little sorry for him as he starts to see the reality of the life he wanted.

Jericho, on the other hand, is an obnoxious actor who has the chance at the role of his life.  However, when he is caught in a compromising position it takes everyone working for him to clean up the mess and put a good spin on it.  In the beginning, it is easy to dislike Jericho a little.  But as the story moves on, the reasons for them become clearer, making it easier to understand his actions. 

These two are thrown together under tough circumstances and at first they clash constantly, which is to be expected.  As they get to know each other, and start coming together as a team, the attraction between them builds.  They do eventually heat up the pages of the book and it was good to see them finally come together for real, rather than for the press.  

Even with the predictability of the story, this was a fun book to read.  Fans of Ms. O’Shea are sure to enjoy this new book and, those looking at the M/M genre for the first time, can’t go wrong with Marriage of Inconvenience.

Worth Fighting For

Title:  Worth Fighting For

Author:  Cheyenne Meadows

Publisher:  Totally Bound

Publisher URL:  https://www.totallybound.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-78651-049-5

Genre:  {M/F} Action & Adventure, Contemporary, Cowboys & Western

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

Experience has given April firsthand knowledge of what it means to be abused, so she has a soft spot for others with the same background.  Instead of coming home with one horse like she planned, April winds up with two.  She finds the perfect stable for her horses, but the owner was proving to be a bit difficult.  His expertise with animals clearly didn’t extend to people, because the man wanted nothing to do with April.  She had no idea why the man didn’t like her.

It isn’t just April that Dusty wants to avoid; it’s all women in general.  Dusty’s life has been turned upside down because of war and women.  The unsettled tension between his brothers has left Dusty with only his dog and his stable.  April is the one person who might upset his normal routine and Dusty doesn’t want that.  She’s constantly underfoot trying to help, which makes it impossible for Dusty to ignore his attraction to her. 

The nurse in April wouldn’t let her turn her back on anyone or anything needing compassion.  I was expecting April’s past to be more detailed, but honestly I’m glad it wasn’t as bad as I was imaging.  She was just so sweet, I would have hated to think of her dealing with more bad things.   Even though Dusty is bad tempered most of the time, April is drawn to him.  Something in his eyes touched her and April wanted to get to the bottom of his pain.  If that meant opening up about her own troublesome past, so be it.  To say that Dusty had been wronged by a woman would be an understatement.  Under the circumstances, I understand why he had sworn off relationships, even the one with his family.  When you add PTSD into the mix, that makes things worse.  Getting close to another human being was hard for Dusty, so it moved me to see how good he was with animals.  There is something about a man bonded with his dog that just makes me feel warm and fuzzy, especially if the man is smoking hot. 

I fell in love with April’s horse, Mischief, and he was the center of some of my favorite scenes.  Dusty’s brothers also made me feel very comfortable and left me curious to know more about their lives.  Everything came together like a hand and glove in Worth Fight For.  The right amount of turmoil was added, without being so sad that I needed to take a break to calm down.  Things weren’t perfect for Dusty and April but I felt they dealt with everything perfectly.  This story will renew your faith in people and give you the hope that everyone can have a second chance.

Cops and Robby

Title: Cops and Robby

Author: Carol Lynne

Publisher: Wilde City Press

Publisher URL: www.wildecity.com

ISBN: 978-1-925313-92-5

Genre: {M/M/M} Contemporary, Taboo

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Robby knows first hand that being a prostitute is a dangerous occupation; thankfully Robby is rescued and sheltered by Cole and Morgan Caldwell, a couple of unique brothers that just happen to be cops.

Cops and Robby is a short story that exposes the secrets of three men. The plot highlights the three men growing into a loving long-term relationship.

 

Robby comes from an abusive home and turns to prostitution for his survival. Even after his rescue, Robby lives in fear of his vengeful pimp.

Cole and Morgan are brothers as well as lovers; this too could be perceived as survival after the family tragedy that occurred in their young lives. What started out as non-sexual comfort evolved into a deeper expression of brotherly love as adults.

Cops and Robby is an impressive and enjoyable saga. There is a small amount of Incest, but the main theme, as well as the intimacy, is a romantic ménage. 

The Power Games

Title:  The Power Games

Author:  Brynley Bush

Publisher:  Loose Id LLC

Publisher URL:  www.loose-id.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-68252-110-6

Genre:  {M/F}, BDSM, Contemporary, Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amazon Nymph

Ava arrives at the tryouts for a new reality show with her friend Emmett, who is helping her with her agenda against her step-father.  They don’t let anyone know just how inexperienced she really is about BDSM.  Ava ends up getting paired with Roman.

The Power Games is the first book in the Club Helix series, and is by an author I have never read before.  After reading The Power Games, I have to say that Ms. Bush is an author that has been added to my must look for list as she is very knowledgeable about the BDSM lifestyle.  While a lot of scenes in this book are very intense, she explains things Ava has questions about in a very understandable way that gets to the heart of things.

Roman knows that there is something slightly off, but is immediately captivated by Ava.  He has his own demons, but once Ava starts to trust him, she also realizes he can make her face some of her demons.  The chemistry between the two is very intense.  Readers should also know that the last major scene between them in the contest can cause some triggers as it is a very intense kidnap scene with the scene continuing into role-playing.

Things come to a head between Roman and Ava after a scene triggers Ava, so she has to come clean.  Ava learns the most important lesson in a relationship with a Dom is communication.  Roman and Ava renegotiate her contract and limit list once they clear the air.  I loved the last part of the book where they admit they love each other, though that was also the only part I didn’t like, as I would have liked to know a little more about what happened between them after that.

There are a few secondary characters that help the story along; it is a reality show after all.  The relationship between Ava and Emmett is explained as well as the full reasons Ava decided to do the contest.  I have to give the author kudos for the concept of doing this contest to coincide with the opening of Club Helix and the interest it generates. 

I am looking forward to more stories in the Club Helix series, especially if they are as intense and well written as The Power Games.  This book is one to read again and should be on every BDSM lover’s bookshelf.

Unbreak Me

Title: Unbreak Me

Author: Julieanne Lynch

Publisher:  Totally Bound

Publisher URL:  https://www.totallybound.com

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-78651-032-7   

Genre: {M/F} Erotic, Contemporary

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

Though she has overcome many obstacles, Molly Rice still struggles every single day.  Being born to horrible parents started the empty existence she deals with.  Life is better, but far from perfect.  If there was any way Molly could become wallpaper and blend into the background, that would be her wish.  But what she gets is the unexpected chance to save someone else. 

Connor Ellison just can’t do it anymore.  The money and upscale lifestyle doesn’t give Connor what he truly needs.  Between his job and his parents, all the happiness has been drained from his life and nobody seems to understand that.  At the lowest point of his life, Connor meets a pretty brunette who stops him from doing something stupid.

Molly butts into Connor’s life just in time to help him turn things around.  He’s surprised that a complete stranger could have such compassion for him, considering his parents didn’t seem to give a damn.  She was the only one he felt comfortable with, and Connor didn’t want to give that up.  Because of her past, dating wasn’t something Molly thought about much.  Dealing with her addiction was more than enough to monopolize Molly’s attention, but still there was the emptiness.  Being with Connor made some of her demons disappear and gave Molly the hope for love.

The couple’s bliss is constantly being interrupted by people who do their best to bring them down.  Molly and Connor become distant when too many negative people and events crop up and things take a turn for the worse.  Molly is involved in an accident that nearly kills her and some people are holding Connor responsible.  Without Molly by his side, Connor gives in to his father’s demands.  At this point, it seems the couple will never sort things out, but after a lot of time and soul searching they do.

If you are having a pity party, then I challenge you to read Unbreak Me.  I was so outraged and devastated by the lives of Molly and Connor, that it made my bad days seem like a picnic in the park.  The physical and mental abuse Molly suffered was difficult to read about.  I am amazed that she could be so positive and helpful with Connor.  I loved her opening words to him when they met.  Molly’s humor and honesty turned the entire situation around and I loved that about her.  Connor now makes me believe that maybe the best things in life are free.  He had plenty of money, a high profile job and lifestyle, but his family was awful.  He and Molly will always be broken, but because they found each other, now they have closure and hope

Beauty, Inc.

Title: Beauty, Inc.

Author: Tara Lain

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN: 978-1-62380-890-7

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Release Date: June 8, 2016

Beauty is Chemist Dr. Robert “Belle” Belleterre, a kindhearted young man who is the exact opposite of his father and two older brothers. CEO of Beauty, Inc, Magnus Strong looks like a beast but in reality is a very compassionate man.

Beauty, Inc. is part of the fairytale series A Pennymaker Tale. The plot consists of strong intelligent characters, realistic trauma, emotional conflict, a touch of humor and dazzling scenes of intimacy.

Belle is fighting an uphill battle alone, trying to save his father’s business while his father and brothers are thoughtlessly doing everything to destroy it. When Belle is forced to move to New York and work for Magnus, Belle’s loyalty begins to change. Belle is very much attracted to Magnus, but feels guilty about turning his back on family.

Magnus continues to wear his scars as a reminder of his past, he does not believe he is worthy of love until Belle breaks through Magnus’s shield. Magnus does everything within his power to help others yet he denies his own desires for happiness.

  

Tara Lain has created a marvelously uplifting saga that I immensely enjoyed. The main characters are a perfect example of what it means to love thy neighbor. Even though Belle’s family seems to be callous, the reason for their actions is comprehensible.