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

Nocturnal Delights

Title: Nocturnal Delights  

Author: Adam Carpenter

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: MLR-1-02016-0541

Genre: {M/M} Erotic Collection

Rating: 3 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Nocturnal Delights is ten short stories of men overflowing with an insatiable lust are on the hunt for sexual indulgence from whomever and wherever they happen to find it. Sex is the main theme; however I found the description of the scenes to be mechanical and the characters uninteresting.   

You Own Me – 3 Nymphs

The public Sinclair McQueen Talbot is a New York author who spends his days writing and going to book signings. The private Mr. Talbot visits a private sex club that caters exclusively to gay men. It is at the club Sinclair experienced the unforgettable talents of Owen. Sinclair soon discovered intimacy with Owen is the perfect solution to writer’s block.

The Sexiest Package – 3 Nymphs       

Bar owner Ed Roberts is concerned about the effects the downward economy is having on his business. Ed has always admired his partner Corey’s package, so Ed and Corey decided to promote a contest, The Sexiest Package Runway Contest Extravaganza. Needless to say the contest was a crowd pleaser for the bar patrons.

The Cactus League Society – 3 Nymphs

Disowned by his father, Drew Saunders travels from New York to California. In Arizona, Drew discovers the Cactus club where he learns all the techniques to pleasure men.

In a City of Eight Million People – 3 Nymphs

Love at first sight lures Jake and Sean into a night of intimate pleasure. Sean makes a speedy exit before dawn, motivated by a misunderstood declaration of Jake’s sentiments.

Hot, Hot, Hot – 3 Nymphs

Erik is attempting to move forward with his newly single life by updating his wardrobe from bland to sexy and hot.

Passport to a Fling – 3 Nymphs

Three friends bored with New York decided to go to Europe for the summer. Jake goes to London in search of a new life. Matt goes to Paris with hopes of falling in love.  Freddie goes to Rome for a summer of hot flings.

Arezzo Development – 3 Nymphs

The Italian train schedule confused Devon; luckily Carlo guided Devon and joined him on the pleasurable train ride to Tuscany.   

The Spy Who Did Me - 3 Nymphs

Between jobs, Adam is on a European excursion. In Paris, Adam boards the midnight train to Zurich. The long train ride was a night of passion for Adam and his fantasy lover Francisco.

Switching Positions – 3 Nymphs

Baseball fan got the chance of his lifetime to meet and receive both of the catcher’s bats.

A Yearly Tryst – 3 Nymphs

Two weeks out of the year Johnny Lee, owner of Capstone’s Dude Ranch and guest Cutter come together for sexual gratification. 

Overall, I enjoyed the brief descriptions of the various locations. Nevertheless, the one-dimensional characters did not engage my full attention.

The Misbehaved

Title:  The Misbehaved

Author: Jessica Jayne

Publisher:  Totally Bound

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

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-78651-026-6

Genre:  {M/F} Erotic, Contemporary

Rating:  3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

Life has always been like a rollercoaster ride that never ends for bar owner Natalea Jones.  Bad parenting started her off on the wrong foot from birth and still haunts her.  It’s a miracle Natalea turned out so well rounded, and it’s all because of one man.  Drake is the best friend Natalea’s ever had and the only man who is off limits to her.  Was a romp in the hay really worth losing the feeling of having a real family life?

Drake Harte’s career is to put out fires, but the one flame he can’t extinguish is the one he carries for Natalea.  For what seemed like forever, Drake has been trying to stake his claim on Natalea, but she isn’t hearing it.  He knows things between them would be perfect, but Natalea has the wrong idea about Drake.  She refuses to take him seriously.  Convincing her otherwise is going to be sweet torture.

When Natalea’s trifling mother reappears, Drake gets his chance to lay all his cards on the table, so his friend status disappears in the blink of an eye.  These two were always meant to be more than buddies, and now they are both on the same page.  Their story is short, but packed with so much emotion and back story. Part of me wanted more of a glimpse into Natalea’s past, but another part wanted to turn a blind eye when I thought of all the horrible things she experienced because of her mother.  That woman is the reason some people should be sterile.  

The Misbehaved left me feeling the comfortable side of romance, when lovers are actually friends too.  Jessica Jayne did a great job of sharing Natalea’s problems, but not making me feel sorry for her.  In fact, I felt empowered by her strength and inspired by the obstacles she overcame.  

Branded By Kesh

Title:  Branded By Kesh

Publisher:  Extasy Books

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

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-4874-0571-7

Genre:  {M/F} Erotic, Science Fiction

Rating:  3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

Kesh hadn’t been ready to settle down until he heard a woman’s voice asking for help.  Immediately he was drawn to her voice and knew that rescuing her was only the beginning.  The space pirate knew he had found his mate and nothing was going to stop Kesh from claiming her.

Magnolia had given up the hope of surviving before her ship exploded when she was saved by a man with beautiful markings.  Something about him had her burning with unexpected heat.  Magnolia couldn’t deny the pull she felt for Kesh, but there were things about him she couldn’t accept.  Magnolia wanted things on her terms but Kesh wasn’t giving her any option.  For him it was all or nothing.

Magnolia had strong feelings about pirates and she wasn’t sure she could easily accept Kesh’s lifestyle.  No matter how much she wanted him, Magnolia wanted an open relationship more.  The thought of one man forever scared the hell out of her and Kesh wasn’t willing to share.  Kesh thought the choice was out of Magnolia’s hands and that she would understand they were meant to be.  Kesh does his best to keep Magnolia safe but danger comes between them.  

Magnolia and Kesh are thrown together in a relationship that takes them both by surprise.  Because Kesh knows he’s found his mate, acceptance is immediate.  At times I wanted more courting from Kesh and to see him getting to know Magnolia.  I understood Magnolia’s reasons for thinking she wanted open relationships only but I was expecting a different kind of drama caused by this.  Branded By Kesh, the second installment of the Fallen Star Series, is a good mixture of danger and desire that readers will enjoy.  

Whisper Pride Pack

Title:  Whisper Pride Pack

Author:   T. Cobbin

Publisher:  Beachwalk Press, Inc.

Publisher URL:   http://beachwalkpress.com

ISBN/BIN:  9781940744957 

Genre:  {M/F} Erotic Paranormal

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

Relocating to a new town and job on the drop of a dime is a blessing for Josie.  She narrowly escaped a horror worse than death because of her mother’s fixation, so dealing with a bitchy co-worker should be a breeze.  But, working with a deliciously yummy boss and keeping her hands to herself is going to be impossible.  Josie keeps silent about the details that brought her to town, completely unaware that the small town has secrets of its own.

Conan has no doubt that his new employee with the angelic voice is also his mate.  All the Alpha can do is imagine mating with Josie on the spot.  Things go from zero to one hundred quickly between him and Josie, so Conan has to find the right moment to spring the news on her that he’s a shifter. 

Josie and Conan settle into coupledom effortlessly, but others around them disrupt their new happiness.  Between pack members and Josie’s mother, danger once again finds Josie, but this time Conan is there to protect her.  

Whisper Pride Pack shocked me with the details of Josie’s mother.  I know she was an addict, but I couldn’t believe what she did to Josie.  I was so disgusted that I hoped for a much worse outcome for her.  T. Cobbin picked an addiction that was unusual and that added to the uniqueness of the story.  Readers get a spicy union with the right amount of drama added in this story.  If I am right, readers haven’t seen the last of this pack.  Once they read this story, I know they will anticipate another one as much as I am.

Forbidden Secrets

Title: Forbidden Secrets

Author: Liberty Lace

Publisher: Wilde City Press

Publisher URL: www.wildecity.com

ISBN: 978-1-925313-45-1

Genre: {M/M} Erotic, Taboo, Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Twins Thaddeus and Tristan Rose are mirror images in looks, but have different character traits. The main source to their differences is Thad’s long held secrets.

Forbidden Secrets is the first book in the Forbidden Glades series. Conditions of their parent’s legacy forced the twins to live together for one year or lose the family’s estate. The setting is the swamp area of Louisiana.

Thad and Tristan had not seen each other for years because of their clashing personalities. During their teenage years, Thad realized the feelings he had for Tristan were more than brotherly love. After high school graduation, Thad became a world traveler to distance himself. Tristan moved to New York and started a business. Now honoring their parent’s wishes brought about revelations for both Thad and Tristan. 

Liberty Lace has created an out of the ordinary as well as an enjoyable short story. Though the subject matter is Incest, the emphasis on the character’s sentiments is romantically sweet. 

The Firefighter’s Mate

Title:  The Firefighter’s Mate

Author:  Jayne Ripley

Publisher:   Etopia Press

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

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-941692-92-9

Genre:  {M/F} Paranormal Erotic

Rating:  3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

Life was running Gabriela Acosta instead of the other way around.  She needed to regroup, so leaving Philadelphia seemed to be the only option to fix her life.  Just because she couldn’t afford to tow her dead car or a cheap motel didn’t mean things were all bad.  Gabriela had made it home, so things were bound to get better any moment.

In high school, Luke Taylor had been interested in Gabriela, but now things were on a whole new level.  Luke knew she was his mate the moment Gabriela returned to Cadillac Falls.  He wanted her in his pack and in his bed.  Luke wasn’t certain what problems Gabriela left behind, but he knew that he’d do everything in his power to help Gabriela now.

Someone has targeted Luke’s pack and woman by burning down houses.  Gabriela is angered by Luke’s idea of protection and refuses his help.  All of Gabriela’s plans to start over literally go up in smoke, so she thinks.  Now Luke has to gain back her trust and figure out who is threatening her. 

The Firefighter’s Mate is the beginning of the Werewolves of Cadillac Falls series.  Some questionable characters were introduced, and they will be a great foundation for the series.  There is so much to explore in this town because the packs seem to be so different.  I was expecting a bit more clarity about the fires, but the suspense will keep me guessing.  Luke and Gabriela’s relationship had a sweet, innocent vibe about it because they had known each other so long.  That definitely fueled some steamy love scenes between the couple that I know readers will enjoy.

Hurts So Good

Title:  Hurts So Good

Author:  Serge de Moliere

Publisher:   Etopia Press

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

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-941692-89-9

Genre:  {M/F} Erotic Interracial

Rating:  3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

After all these months, Krista was still in pain.  Boy, was she regretting taking that riding lesson.  A little excitement was all Krista was looking for, not damaged discs.  The physical therapist assigned to Krista turned out to heal more than just her back problems.

Antonio stirred feelings in Krista that she wasn’t expecting, but definitely wanted to explore.  She was getting a second chance at love and now was not the time to blow it.  Antonio seemed to want Krista just as much, if not more.

Krista actually has a history with Antonio that didn’t end so well.  I was hoping for more detail on their relationship, but I got enough understanding to know that Krista’s actions were less than kind.  In trying to protect herself, she hurt them both.  Antonio got to reinvent himself while at the same time reminding Krista of who he always was.  Hurts So Good is a sweet story of a couple who have to first grow apart so they can finally grow together in love.    

A Diamond in the Dark

Title:  A Diamond in the Dark

Author:  Sassie Lewis

Publisher:  Beachwalk Press

Publisher URL:  http://beachwalkpress.com

ISBN/BIN:   9781940744834

Genre:  {M/F} Erotic Contemporary BBW

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

Before he did something stupid, Axton had to get laid.  Erotic dreams about the woman he’d known since she was 2 years old was driving him bananas.  Axton practically felt like a pervert, but he just couldn’t help it.  Maybe a weekend away would give him a chance to get Tia out of his head.  Well, it might have worked if Axton didn’t wake up to find the delectable woman straddling him.

Tia has been in love with Axton for as long as she can remember.  Her first orgasm as a teenager happened when watching him skinny dip in the lake.  The more she did to gain his attention, the more annoyed he seemed to become.  Tia was tired of watching from the sideline while Axton took off with another trashy woman.  She had to try a new tactic to get Axton to see her as more than family. 

The dynamics of Tia and Axton’s relationship is complicated in A Diamond in the Dark.  The strikes they have working against them might not necessarily be issues, the age difference and the family.  Tia has no doubt that they should be together but Axton tries his best to fight the losing battle.  He’s torn and people around him are starting to notice that something is wrong.   Eventually Tia and Axton take their relationship to the next level but decide to keep it a secret for a while.  Secrets seem to always come out at the worse times, and this one was no different.  What could have torn the family apart actually brought everyone closer together.  Axton was a bit too noble for his own good sometimes and Tia seemed like a puppy on his heels.  That led to some sexually charged scenes that readers will appreciate.  I loved the history between the couple and found them both easy to relate to.  Their family made me jealous and left me feeling comforted at the end of the story.

Lady

Title: Lady

Author:  Viola Grace

Publisher:  Extasy Books

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

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-77111-945-0

Genre:  {M/F} Erotic Romance Science Fiction

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph

If she stays on Earth, Roxelena knows she would never have the husband and children she has always dreamed of.  No human man could stand her cold body temperature.  Roxelena was the first girl in her family born with this trait in five generations.  Moving to Irudan is the only way to get the life that she wants. 

Devnin is the opposite of Roxelena, his body gives off extreme heat.  For this reason, he feels Roxelena will be a good match as a wife.  He’s willing to take things slowly to let her adapt to her new job and new husband. 

Roxelena and Devnin discover the benefits of their talents as it brings them closer in a short amount of time.  Finally Roxelena is able to achieve a new level of normal and she learns how to control her talent.

Lady is the seventh story of the Terran Times Second Wave series.  Roxelena’s talent has caused nothing but loneliness for her up until now.  She’s even been deprived of hot meals for most of her life.  That’s something that most people take for granted and it really made me consider the isolation Roxelena had to constantly feel.  Devnin didn’t see Roxelena’s cold issue as a problem, but more of a resolution.  He was patient and protective and knew just the right things to do.  Roxelena’s work outfit was a little too much for me because it was a little too little, even though it was justified.  It warmed my heart at how she was accepted into a new group of friends who made her feel so accepted.  If you believe in the positive effect of turning lemons into lemonade, then Lady is a story that you will embrace with open arms. 

Byron

Title:  Byron

Author:  Kathi S. Barton

Publisher:  World Castle Publishing

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

ISBN:  9781937593476  

Genre:  {M/F} Erotic, BDSM

Rating:  5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph 

Between her crappy job and being evicted from her apartment, Taylor Bennett has been having a rough time lately.  If it hadn’t been for her friend Jamie, Taylor might have ended up on the street.  Plus, she had to suffer through the embarrassment of explaining the bites on her body after falling ill at dinner with Jamie’s family.  Many people didn’t understand her lifestyle as a submissive.  Jamie’s brother Byron was the only one who understood.  But after the experience she’d had, could Taylor trust the arrogant man with her secret? 

Byron Grant is a man who knows a thing or two about secrets.  He’s more than a successful artist.  His family doesn’t know he’s a Dominant, who owns a few bondage clubs.  After meeting Taylor, Byron wants her.  She made him want things he’d never wanted from any other woman before.  Now he just has to convince the stubborn woman that there’s more than sex between them.   

When Taylor uncovers some shady events going on at work, her life is threatened.  The entire Grant family comes to Taylor’s rescue, even though Taylor swears she doesn’t need their help.  That family never takes “no” for an answer and this time was no exception. 

Byron is the fourth book of The Grant Brothers series and another sensational story by Kathi S. Barton.  The author is very skilled at bringing the characters to life and making readers fall more in love with them at the turn of each page.   Byron considers himself a bit different from his brothers because of his sexual preferences. The story of his broken arm gave me a different opinion of Byron and it called to my maternal side.  Taylor is stronger than I expected, considering she’s a submissive.  I was impressed with her strong will and her fearlessness, while amused by her talent for getting Byron stirred up.  Jamie disappointed me in this story, but I know he’ll redeem himself.  I can’t stay mad at these Grant brothers for long.  This is another story that I guarantee readers won’t be able to forget.  This series just might ruin me for all others. 

The Craftsman

Title:  The Craftsman

Author:  Georgia Fox

Publisher:  Evernight Publishing

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

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-926950-88-4

Genre:  {M/F/M} Erotic Medieval

Rating:  3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph 

Fifteen years ago he was Raedwulf, a disappointment to his noble father.  Now that he’s newly released from prison, Wulf is a carpenter who likes being left alone.  He’s happy with his life.  That happiness ends when Wulf is told he has to marry a total stranger.  Though he has no choice in the marriage, Wulf decides he will simply ignore his new wife.   

Emma is a widow who never expected to get married again.  Now that she was being forced into marriage, Emma tried to be hopeful about going to a secure home.  That would be enough for her.  She’d loved a man once and didn’t expect to do so again.  When she meets the quiet man who’s rough around the edges, Emma decides to make the best of her situation. 

Emma tingles when she imagines Wulf using his rough hands on her.  She’d never experienced this kind of excitement with her husband.  Wulf reconsiders his virgin status when lustful thoughts continue to flood his mind when Emma is near.  The couple enter a sexual relationship that’s better than either could imagine. They were definitely not shy when it came to making love.   It was hard to believe that Wulf had been a virgin up until this point because he definitely had skills in the bedroom.  Once he started having sex, it seems as if he was making up for lost time.   

The couple’s happiness is interrupted by another woman, who could possibly give Wulf things that Emma can’t.  Emma leaves Wulf to give him the chance at a life she thinks he deserves.  It hurts Emma, because she’s fallen in love with her husband.  Wulf doesn’t seem to return her feelings because he lets her leave.  I was disappointed with Wulf at this moment because I thought he was a better man.  I couldn’t understand why he wasn’t more visibly upset, and I was afraid Emma’s situation might be the reason.  I loved the scene when Wulf goes to fetch Emma.  I especially enjoyed seeing him take a stand and being passionate about something other than sex.  No woman can resist a man who’ll fight for her.  Sometimes we think a quiet, passive man would not make a good Alpha, but in this case that is wrong.  Wulf was quiet with others, but he is certainly no push over.

The Craftsman is book three in The Conquerors series, and can be read as a stand-alone story with no problem.  Emma and Wulf’s story is a very sexual one, and they pretty much cover all the bases.  For a widow and a virgin, they both seemed very open to exploring.  The couple even went so far as to have another man join in on their romps.  I saw more growth in Wulf, and I think he needed it more.  Their happy ending was pleasing and hopeful, while leaving an opening for a story of another character I think.  Readers will enjoy this story about unexpected love, just as I did.

Screw Me Once

Title: Screw Me Once

Author:  Maggie Montgomery

Publisher:  Loose Id

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

ISBN/BIN:  978-1-61118-776-2 

Genre:  {M/F} Erotic Contemporary

Rating:  3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph 

Belle hated him.  That’s what she’d been telling herself for years.  Brian had been her first love and the first person to rip out her heart.  Belle has practiced exactly what she’d say if she got the chance to tell him off.  When a wedding puts her face to face with the man who changed her life forever, Belle is forced to deal with the unwanted attraction she still has.   

Brian McKenna isn’t proud of the way he handled things with Belle.  He didn’t intentionally set out to hurt her, but being young and working through life issues had been too much to cope with at the time.  After all these years, maybe Belle would be able to forgive him.  Would she believe that he loved her then, just as he loved her now? 

Much is still unsettled between Belle and Brian when they meet again, but that doesn’t keep them from making out like teenagers the first chance they got.  Even though Belle accepts Brian’s apology, she refuses to completely open up to him.  She is still haunted by events from the past and oddly enough, so is Brian.   The one thing that ought to bring the couple closer is the same thing that threatens their chance at a future.  One minute I wanted to blame Belle, the next minute I blamed Brian.  Their misunderstanding could have been resolved long ago if they had both been more open with their feelings.  I think their relationship is a good reminder that love takes work and real life can get in the way of that love, if you let it.   

Belle and Brian certainly kept things steamy with their love scenes.  Even after all the time that passed, they were both still hot for each other.  The locations for their lovemaking were not the norm, but I have to say one particular accessory shocked me the most.  I will never view that object the same again.   

After finishing the story, it hit me how clever the title Screw Me Once actually is.  Maggie Montgomery interjects some southern charm that makes readers feel close to the characters.  There’s also plenty of humor.  Regardless if I agreed or disagreed with their choices, I could see myself in Belle and Brian.  If you love second chances, then you need to pick up this story.

The Wagered Wench

Title:  The Wagered Wench
Author:  Georgia Fox

Publisher:  Evernight Publishing

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

ISBN:   978-1-927368-48-0

Genre:  {M/F/M} Erotic Medieval

Rating:  3.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph 

Elsinora Gudderthsdottir has a lot of responsibility on her shoulders.  As the only child, who just happens to be female, Elsinora must make certain that the family lands are run properly.  But, no man will fight for lands run by a woman, and her father constantly reminds Elsinora of this.  The only solution is for Elsinora to get married.  Just when she thinks she’s convinced her father that she won’t marry,  Elsinora is thrown for a loop and finds herself married to a complete stranger. 

Dominic Coeur-du-Loup is a Norman soldier with morals, even though Elsinora considers him a monster.   He didn’t intend to really take the land or the daughter he’d won in a tavern game until he witnessed the sad state of the land and the spirit in Elsinora’s eyes.  Dominic knew that if he didn’t follow through with marrying Elsinora, she could wind up with a worse option than him.  She needed him and he was quickly growing to want Elsinora.   

Elsinora unhappily agrees to marriage and promises Dominic that he will never have a moment of peace with her.  Even though her new husband has the manners of a pig and orders her around like a child, Elsinora can’t stop the attraction she feels for Dominic.  As much as he wants to ignore the fact, Dominic is loosing his heart to Elsinora.  He is concerned about the attentions of an old suitor of Elsinora’s.  If push comes to shove, Dominic is willing to give up the family manor, but he will never give up Elsinora.   

Unfinished business between Elsinora and her old suitor causes problems with her marriage to Dominic.  The tables turn and now Elsinora is granted the power to choose her future.  She takes her sweet time in reaching a decision after making some unconventional requests along the way.  Dominic and Elsinora’s old suitor compete for her affections but in the end, Dominic is the one who wins her heart. 

The Wagered Wench is the fifth book of The Conquerors series, but readers don’t need to read the series in order to easily grasp and enjoy this story.  Elsinora is a spunky girl and that is what I liked about her most.  She accepted her fate and married Dominic after putting up quite a fight.  Their fights were equally as stimulating as their love scenes, and I know readers will be shocked by some of them.  There were a few scenes with sexual activity that caught me off guard and left me feeling confused. I’m also left with questions about Elsinora’s old suitor.  All in all, this story has a happy ending that gave me closure and made me curious about the other books in the series.  If you have never read Georgia Fox story, this one would be great as a start.

Under His Spell

Title:  Under His Spell

Author:  Liz Davis

Publisher:  Siren-Bookstrand Publishing

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

ISBN:  1-61034-866-4

Genre:  {M/F} Erotic, Interracial, Paranormal, Werewolves

Rating:  4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer:  Amethyst Nymph 

When she spots a stranger with long black hair in a coffeehouse, Lynn Calloway can’t stop staring.  She’s not the kind of woman to engage in conversation with a total stranger and flirt, but something about the man is hard to resist.  Fate brings the man to Lynn’s house and they spend an amazing night in bed together.  Lynn’s happiness is quickly squashed upon discovering that her American Indian lover left without even saying goodbye. 

Takoda Chasing didn’t mean to bring another woman into his life, but he had no choice.  Lynn was his and he couldn’t deny his feelings for her. Takoda doesn’t know how to tell her he’s a wolf and handles the situation all wrong.  If Lynn is able to accept him, will she be able to handle the tragedy from his past?   

Lynn forgives Takoda for his unexplained absence and after some convincing, she accepts the fact that he’s a shifter.  The couple’s happiness is quickly interrupted by demons from their past and interference from Lynn’s co-worker.  Takoda fears he won’t be able to keep Lynn safe from harm but when it counts, he is always there for her.  There are some very intense moments that seem like all hope is lost.  Lynn’s co-worker definitely gave me the creeps and I would have liked to see a different outcome for him. I also enjoyed the sinister feeling when Lynn gets stranded and meets Dex.  His part in the story left me with questions. Takoda is a good man, and I was glad to see him let go of some of his guilt and sadness when he met Lynn.  He deserved a second chance at happiness and I’m thrilled it was with Lynn.  I was shocked by the unknown danger that surrounded Lynn.  It was a wonderful addition to this love story that helped cement the couple’s love.   

Under His Spell is a delightful love story of two people meant to be together.  I know readers will be pleased if they pick up a copy because Liz Davis has given them a story that stands out.

Life Out Loud

Title: Life Out Loud
Author: Gabrielle Evans
Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand
Publisher URL: http://sirenbookstrand.com/
ISBN: 1-61034-365-4
Genre: {M/F} Suspense, Contemporary, Erotic
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx
Quinn Harper is returning home to Salem Oregon, after being gone for five years. She left for the east coast, settled in Virginia to finish school and recover from a broken heart. Now that she’s getting her life together, she begins to realize that Zach is the one who has stolen her heart.

Zachary Jenson is coming home. He’s finished with his job as an FBI undercover agent and wants to start a new life with a family of his own. When he finds out that Quinn is also back, there’s nothing he won’t do to have her for himself.

After reading Life Out Loud, I was surprised to find out who is the villain turned out to be. The author had me fooled and it is done in a very deceptive way. This is the first book in the Salem Nights series, and my first read from Ms. Evans, who has done a great job with her creative, intrigue-filled and suspenseful writing. After being friends from childhood, Zach and Quinn, now as adults, learning they both feel the same way; there is a lot of steaming hot sex going on.

Zachary turned out to be a little possessive of Quinn, and yet very supportive of her needs and wants. I must say that he really developed into a warm person that I could admire with his love for his family. Quinn is a spitfire who had no one to lean on after the death her parents and from generations of family, she is left very wealthy. She had a problem deciding on a career and she learned a few truths about the people closest to her.
I am excited to learn what will be happening in the next story of this series or rather, who it will be about. While reading this book, I kept wondering how the end would turn out and imagine my surprise when I reached it! Ms. Evans sure does know how to spin a realistic tale of what could and could not go wrong. I say read and enjoy.

Sweet Vengeance

Title: Sweet Vengeance
Author: Nicole Morgan
Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand
Publisher URL: http://www.sirenbookstrand.com/
ISBN: 1-60601-927-9
Genre: {M/F} Erotic, Contemporary, Suspense
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Goddess Minx

Adam Collins, former Navy SEAL, is working on getting his life together. One morning, he is speeding out of his driveway and almost runs over Chelsea without realizing it. She goes over later with the intent to give him a tongue-lashing for his not paying attention to his driving. As Adam answers the door, they both feel an instant attraction.

When the nightmare of the murder of his fiancé and unborn child resurfaces, Adam’s anger gets worse from the guilt he’s feeling for not saving their lives. Because of his investigation of the murder, Adam puts both his and Chelsea’s lives in serious danger. Rex and Jack both know that, in order for Adam to leave the past behind, he must face the true fact of the deaths and start to work on having a future with Chelsea. The three of them, along with the police, form a plan to capture the criminal and save Chelsea’s life.

Sweet Vengeance is a very heart wrenching story of how much a person can take upon themselves from the death of those closest to them. I am truly fascinated with the behavior of the two main characters - both had a lot of baggage - and they begin to bond by trusting each other. This is the third book in the Sweet Awakenings series.

Chelsea turned out to be a little too sweet, but a very caring person who would help anyone in need. She’s making an effort to get past her abusive boyfriend and Adam certainly triggered some of those frightening moments for her. He wants to learn why she gets nervous around him when he expresses any anger. One thing about Adam that never ceases to amaze me is that he didn’t know when to stop with the anger and to accept the truth from his friends until Chelsea is in danger.

The in-depth creativity of Ms. Morgan shows here with her characters and the attitudes of a few of them had me laughing at their behavior. She kept me in suspense of the villain and I was totally shocked at learning the truth of one of the secondary characters. I enjoyed reading about true friendship, regardless of the fact they had to force each other to listen to what needed to be said in order to face the truth.

Nice: An Eye Spy Christmas Carol

Title: Nice: An Eye Spy Christmas Carol
Author: Drew Zachary
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com
ISBN: N/A
Genre: {M/M} Gay Erotic, Paranormal
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

DB’s version of a wonderful Christmas has nothing to do with singing carols and spreading holiday cheer. For him, peace and quiet are the best presents of all. When a ghost shows up, warning DB that he will be visited by three more ghosts, he catalogs it as another annoyance and wishes that they all forget the way to his location.

Jesse is hoping to help DB learn to enjoy the holidays and get his lover to change his ways. Will DB have an open mind or are the ghosts wasting their time?

Nice: An Eye Spy Christmas Carol is a short holiday story about the two main characters from the Eye Spy series. Drew Zachary’s tales involving DB and Jesse are always chock-full of humor and erotic play that I couldn’t ever imagine between a ghost and a human, prior to reading the series. Their relationship has grown immensely since they were first introduced. I couldn’t help but notice the changes in DB. His thoughts of pleasing his ghostly lover for the holiday made his feelings crystal clear. I believe he may take heed to some of the messages delivered. We will see if the intervention actually worked by DB’s actions in future stories to come. I enjoyed reading this quick tale and am anxious for the next Eye Spy release.