Between the Covers

Moonlight, Tiger, and Smoke by Connie Bailey

2012-02-12T12:59:00.002-05:00

Moonlight, Tiger, and Smoke by Connie Bailey
Stars: UNRATED

Length: 300 pages
Blurb
Taken from their families and raised to be assassins, Moonlight and Tiger are the perfect weapons and secret lovers. Even when they are sent into service with different clans, their love remains pure and strong until a more insidious threat divides them. When Moonlight realizes his master is manipulating people for his own ends, the discovery threatens not only Tiger, but their entire society. Betrayed by a fellow assassin, the men are tortured and broken. If their love and their people are going to survive, one of them will have to defy everything he knows and stand up for the only thing he believes is real: Love.

Overall
I think this is one of the first, if not THE first novel that I've been unable to rate.

A little history: I started this book a while ago, got about 40% of the way through and just ran out of desire to read it. The writing wasn't too bad, the characters had potential for being interesting, and the world that was being crafted had potential for being very interesting.

So why did I come to a dead-stop and not pick it up for several months?

Several factors are involved. One, the story is dark, which isn't a problem per se but does make for a more challenging read. The writing was good, but not very concise, so as I read it felt like very little progressed over time, to the point where to actually finish the novel, I read very quickly, skipping large chunks of text (which is why I'm not rating this book, as I don't think I can fairly judge this heavy of a book without having read it thoroughly).

I feel the concept was strong and the characters and the plot were all interesting, but the progression over about 20 years felt almost grueling as everything was built and put into place. While I can understand the necessity, it was difficult for me to sink into the story as I felt like I was being dragged down a dark tunnel and unsure if I would survive the encounter.

Still, I'm not sure if shortening the novel (time-wise) would have worked. However, cutting some scenes and making others more concise would have helped. Characters are introduced and then killed off without showing much importance to any events or character development.

This is a pretty dark and overall depressing novel, although the end is satisfactory, if not a little too neat.

In the end, while I didn't particularly enjoy this book, I'm glad I finished it. I can't say I'd recommend it to anyone, but I wouldn't actively talk someone out of reading it, especially if it seems to be their type of book (enjoying in-depth tales of espionage, spying, murder, assassins, etc).

Positives of this book? I love the cover. It's beautiful, classy, and artistic, while incorporating multiple elements of the story. Also, I never really knew how things would turn out, which is definitely a bonus in this type of tale. Finally, although most of my comments about this book have been negative, this is definitely one you'd have to look into on a case by case basis.

Requested this book for review.

Advent: Collected Shorts by SL Armstrong and K Piet

2012-02-09T18:26:00.004-05:00

Advent: Collected Shorts by SL Armstrong and K Piet
Stars: 4/5

Length: 175,000 words (433 pages)
Blurb
The tradition of the Advent calendar goes back as far as the beginning of the 19th century. Special calendars were produced, counting down the days until Christmas, usually with a small poem or gift accompanying each day. The authors of this collection of erotic fiction bring a steamy twist to that practice, by offering a free, never-before-released short for each day of the holiday season. In addition, Advent: Collected Shorts also includes Love and Agony—seventeen additional stories and shorts not released as part of the free Advent event, that are only available in this collection!

Overall
While I didn't read every story in this collection—some involved pairings that weren't to my taste—I have to give what I did read a strong score. The Advent stories are a bit repetitive if read straight through, as they involve lots of hot, steamy sex with various pairings (mainly m/m, but some m/f, f/f, plus a few sets of multiple partners, and some incestual involvement). I only read the m/m stories, and they were plenty hot. I'm not big on straight erotica...erm, I mean only erotica...but these stories were excellent. Plus, while sex was the focus, there were plenty of teases for the stories to come.

Speaking of which...most of these pieces involve characters from works that are still in progress. I was never too confused about who was what doing what, and these definitely peaked my interest and I look forward to reading the longer works that these characters come from. If you want smokin' holiday sex, this will have a little of everything...enjoy the buffet!

As for the Love and Agony section: I liked these stories, although romance/sex isn't the focal point as much as it is in the Advent section. Not all the stories are happy (although even some of the Advent stories aren't completely happy), but the set is called “Love and Agony.” Enjoyable, although they didn't leave quite as lasting an impression as the Advent set.

Strengths
I'm not big on sex in stories. Mainly it needs to further plot/characters or be really well done. Most of this stories were really well done. Smut for smut's sake? Perhaps. But sometimes you need a foursome with a set of triplets who all share a soul that is soul mate to the fourth. There is variety in character pairings, type of sex, level of kink, and number of partners. I recommend not reading these at work though *cough, blush*.

Although these stories don't have much plot, they hint at plot that has happened previously or is going to happen in the future. These really made me look forward to some stories that are coming. Maybe not a strength, since it can be considered a good sales ploy, but I felt the teases of plot helped carry those stories that didn't have much plot within their pages. Those stories with plot were interesting; a taste of what is to come.

At 175,000 words for the price of $5.99, this is definitely worth its weight. Although I read this after the holidays and enjoyed it just fine, it would definitely work well to warm readers through the month of December with a story or two each day.

Weaknesses
Not every story will be to everyone's taste. Most readers will be going in for the m/m angle, so it's relatively easy to skip those that don't satisfy that. Readers going in for just f/f or m/f will find little to go for.

While I can understand why the stories are separated into “Advent” and “Love and Agony,” part of me wishes that the Advent stories were dispersed between the other stories in order to break up the sex—which for me became repetitious. Still delicious, but like eating too many pieces of candy.

Storm Moon Press usually does an exemplary editing job, but they may have rushed out these stories a little quicker than normal, as I found more typo mistakes than normal. They were by no means prolific, and they weren't very distracting from the story, but I do have to warn (although mine was an earlier copy and said errors may have been removed since).

Received this book for review.

Second Chances by Jeff Erno

2012-02-06T20:22:00.002-05:00

Second Chances by Jeff Erno
Stars: 2.5/5

Length: 253 pages
Blurb
Harold Wainwright is dying. At seventy-nine, stricken with malignant cancer, the multi-billionaire insurance mogul realizes he has much to regret. In his youth he rejected his only true love and instead chose to advance his career and build his financial empire. Single-mindedly he focused upon achieving his own goals, looking out for number one, and acquiring a monetary fortune. Now he is alone, and all he has is his money…and his life is over.

Doctor Timothy Drayton has devoted his entire career to developing the technology to prolong human life. His entire focus has been upon creating a computer chip which can be implanted into the human brain, allowing human consciousness to be transferred from one human subject into the mind of another. Given optimum circumstances, he is confident that he can now preserve the consciousness of a dying patient into the mind of a donor subject with a surgically electronic implant.

Jesse Warren is eighteen years old, about to graduate from high school. He’s a track star, model student, and the typical all-American kid. One day while on his way to track practice, tragedy strikes, and Jesse is in a terrible accident, rendered comatose. When his family learns the horrifying news, they believe they’ve lost their son forever. Jesse Warren is pronounced “brain dead”.

When neurosurgeon and world-renowned brain specialist Dr. Timothy Drayton arrives, telling the Warren family that he has an advanced form of experimental treatment which can possibly save young Jesse and restore his consciousness, the Warrens are convinced that God has sent them a miracle. They are overjoyed the next morning when their son undergoes surgery and awakens as a new man. His memory loss, they are convinced, is amnesia due to his accident.

Jesse lives, and is given a second chance. Will his new life prove to be the impetus for significant change, or will the old Harold Wainwright emerge to make the same mistakes a second time around? Most of us are given but one chance to make the right choices, but imagine if… there were such things as Second Chances.

Overall
This novel held more potential than was realized and I had some pretty large issues with it. Still, it wasn't painful to read and I didn't need to force myself to finish. It was easy going and had a very sweet romance. This is one where different readers will probably have very different feelings on the matter, and I can only offer my opinions.

Strengths
The story centered around an interesting concept of one man's mind/soul being placed into another's body. I had some difficulty understanding the doctor's motivations until later in the story, but I enjoyed seeing the challenges that New Jesse experienced as he tries to fit into Jesse's life while still retaining much of Harold's preferences. Although this plot contains some science fiction elements, it's not so far outside the realm of possibility that it could be considered straight sci-fi. Er, hardcore sci-fi.

The romance Jesse experiences is very sweet and pure, like young love, and I liked how those elements were handled, carefully rebuilding a friendship that one person doesn't remember while delving into a relationship. The romance is very tender but moves pretty quickly since they are young men in love. Hormones do that to you, I hear. You can't help but want them to get together.

Although I had some major issues with this book (as I list below), it was still a pretty good read. Although it's not something I'd probably pick up and read again, it's also not something I'd warn people against or fight against having to re-read.

Weaknesses
The writing was okay, but a little heavy handed and stiff at times. Also, the repetition of "second chance" annoyed me. Obviously it was the theme of the book, but it didn't need to be pointed out so often, even in times when it would naturally come up, I think alternative phrases would have helped. A minor niggle which I could have forgiven if it blended into the writing more. However, as I didn't find the writing to be as natural as previous Erno works, I was more easily distracted by minor word choices.

While I enjoyed the plot concept, I felt it was a little abused. Part of this relates to the author's repeated use of "second chance" as a theme--slightly more than a theme since it permeates every element of the book. By the final third of the novel I knew how everything was going to turn out, even if I didn't know the specifics. Obviously with romances the two main characters are generally going to end up together, but I feel even beyond that this ending was predictable. This could just be me, though, but if you're a reader who likes surprises and figures out endings, (and if predictability bothers you), then you may want to steer clear.

Regarding the ending: I feel there were some unresolved issues that didn't get addressed and needed to be.

Also, I was a little annoyed by how much Harold flung around money. Obviously he's used to being rich and I think he gets a just reward in the end, but books that inadvertently say that money solves everything--even when they are trying to say the opposite--get under my skin in the bad way.

Received this book for review.

Crescendo (Song of the Fallen, #2) by Rachel Haimowitz

2012-02-02T20:27:00.003-05:00

Crescendo (Song of the Fallen, #2) by Rachel Haimowitz
Stars: 4/5

Length: 107,000 words (245 pages)
Blurb
History made them enemies. Chance made them master and slave. Love overcame it all. But love isn’t always enough...

Bridging the hatred of centuries did not come easy for Freyrík Farr and Ayden Vaska. As prince of a war-torn human province, Freyrík could ill afford to fall for an enemy. And Ayden, an elven warrior with three-hundred years of bitterness in his heart, wanted no part of love—not elven, and especially not human. Yet they came together despite themselves and despite the will of their peoples, joining heart and mind to fight a race of Dark Beasts threatening the extinction of mankind.

But the Dark Beast threat pales beside the dangers of the human High Court, home of the Aegis Exalted and the harshest test yet of Ayden’s and Freyrík’s fledgling love.

While Ayden is stripped of his magic, Freyrík is forced to choose between his love for elf, Aegis, and brother, all the while seeking the one uncertain path that might save his doomed race. Time is fast running out for mankind, and only by making peace amongst themselves and with their ancient elven enemies can they end the Dark war—and undo the tragedy that’s plagued humans, elves, and Dark Beasts alike for the last three-hundred years.

Overall
Crescendo picks up where Counterpoint leaves off: Ayden and Freyrik are forced to travel to the main city to meet the king of kings and present Ayden to him (and have his magic bound). Neither is very happy about it, but they are at an impasse: Ayden won't go unless Freyrik joins him, and Freyrik refuses to betray his kings. These decisions will cost them more than they can expect.

The first half of this novel is filled with political intrigue and tough decisions. It's difficult for them to trust anyone, except each other, but even that bond is brittle in their new environment. To balance out the politics, the second half of the book has adventure with sword fights and magic (and walking, because adventures always involve a lot of walking).

Although the ending left me a off balance, I highly enjoyed this fantasy romance.

Strengths
I think I wanted to punch everyone in this story at least once, except Lord Lini and Vitr. OK, maybe not everyone, but much of the leading cast. Why is this a good thing? These characters got under my skin; they acted/reacted like people (and elves) do, and they struggled with their decisions--and the results. Sometimes it was painful and raw, but it was a little bit awesome in that as well.

The Aegis. I love him. I love him because every other chapter I wouldn't know if I could trust him, or if he was secretly cackling behind my back. I loved that I couldn't see him cackling behind the main characters' backs. He drove me nuts. It was great.

Once again the balance of action and politics saved this story from relying too heavily on either. For those who love politics, it will sate that, and for those who love action, there is a fair amount (although perhaps not as much as the first book, or at least differently structured).

There is still a fair amount of romance, although because Freyrik has successfully wooed Ayden, it's not as central to the plot or action. Most the romance here is focused on their relationship continuing despite the odds and the power balance between them.

Weaknesses
Considering the slow build of everything in this novel and the one before it, the ending feels especially abrupt. While I can see the reason for it (too many details would drag it out), I still felt shocked by the sudden arrival of the final chapter. It almost felt like Haimowitz wanted to end with the second to last chapter, but was advised on not, so tagged on another chapter. Mind you, I'm glad it doesn't end with the second to last chapter...but that will be for you to decide.

Received this book for review.

Riptide Winner

2012-01-31T07:14:00.001-05:00

Congrats to:

Kassandra

For winning the individual blog tour prize.

Thanks everyone for coming out, and remember, you have until Feb 2 to comment and get a chance to win a prize pack from Riptide!

Blacker than Black by Rhi Etzweiler

2012-01-29T15:34:00.002-05:00

Blacker than Black by Rhi Etzweiler
Stars: 4.5/5

Length: 110,000
Blurb
Apparently, my twin and I are two of York’s most notorious criminals. We’ve been Nightwalkers in the blue-light district since the vamps took over the world. Don’t know how many years it’s been. Long enough that a stream of fellow ’walkers have come and gone. Most don’t last long selling their chi. End up face-down in the gutter, or worse.

For us, one night and one sale change everything.

Monsieur Garthelle is the first john to hunt me down. He calls me a chi thief in one breath and offers absolution—servitude—in the next. Maybe I’m a sucker, but I like living and breathing. Strange that such a powerful vamp would show leniency to a mere human. And something’s not right with the chi I took from him. It won’t go away.

Neither will he, and he’s forcing us to spy on his peers. Then a vamp turns up dead, and we go from playing eyes and ears to investigating a murder. This isn’t what I signed up for. All I ever wanted was to sell a little chi, maybe steal some in return. I should’ve kept my damn hands to myself.

This is my story. Look through my eyes.

Overall
An incredible journey that takes the reader from the rough streets to shadowy, backstabbing high-class mansions. It's a winding tale that plays at a murder mystery, delves into social issues, paints a glorious urban fantasy world, and rounds it out with a tense bit of romance. This is not a typical read, and it's hard to shove it under any one genre heading, but it's definitely something to pick up (especially if you want something new).

Strengths
It's difficult for me to pinpoint all the strengths of this novel. The pieces weave together so tightly, it's hard to pick just one or two threads. However, that being said, I can mention the elements that caught my eye as important parts for the enjoyment of this novel.

One is the evolution of events, story, and romance. The story starts off almost exceptionally simple with a 'whore' picking up the wrong 'john.' But as the characters interact, the story unfolds, expands, and almost explodes off the page. While the events, story, and romance are fine, it is experiencing the development of everything that makes the novel impressive. It's a feat to keep the readers attention for so long in first person while developing multiple tendrils of story, but Blacker Than Black does it. As I muddle through trying to explain, all I can really say is it's something that is best experienced first hand.

Two, this book has a cast of colorful characters. They aren't all good, in fact, most have some sort of underhanded moment, even if it is against the "bad guy." Honesty would have gone a long way to avoiding many of the circumstances, but then we wouldn't have had much of a book! I loved Garthelle, the shady bastard, and Black, possibly the least trusting individual in the book (with good cause, sometimes). There were various side characters who added layers of entertainment, one of my favorite being the butler, who is a loyal, sometimes snarky, worker willing to think for himself. What I really enjoyed (even when it made me want to rip out my hair) is that while I thought I knew where things were going and who to trust, I never did. Much like the main characters, I was constantly on uneven footing.

While this world is similar to ours, the flourishes that Etzweiler added, from the social mores and the creation of chi prostitutes to the hierarchal social structure of the vampires--I mean lyche. Everything may take place in a future of our world, but in reality it takes place in the lyche society and follows a different set of rules. Everything was well handled--and if you're confused it's probably because you're meant to be.

Weaknesses
Some readers may find some of the language choices to be distracting, but they were consistently used, so I chalked it up to narrator's voice, although it did chafe me a little. Though the fact that this is my biggest issue with the story, says something about it's quality.

The author raises some questions in the second half of the book that don't get answered, but honestly they didn't need to be answered for the conclusion, nor could an answer easily be achieved. Some may find the hanging questions to be frustrating, but I found them interesting, as the reader and the narrator must look at "Why does it matter?"--a question that can be applied to several elements of the story.

While this is a longer story, it has a good pace and brings information in from all angles, so it never came across as boring, although some parts are slower.

I am affiliated with Riptide Publishing. Read as a proof.

Full Disclosure

2012-01-26T06:40:00.005-05:00

You'll see in my sidebar I've added a disclosure list. You've probably noticed I add disclosures to the end of every book that I received for review, whether I requested it or it was offered to me. I try hard not to let that influence my review, but I also know I'm human and am influenced by outside forces, no matter how much I'd like to not be.

In that regard, I'd like to update you on something:

At the beginning of the year, I began working with Riptide Publishing in a part-time position. While it doesn't mean I'm involved in the production of every book, I will be involved in editing/proofing/publishing for all books on some levels. Again, I will try to not let that influence my reviews. In addition:

1. Books/stories in which I'm heavily involved in the development/editing, I won't review, or at least won't do a full review. I may mention it on this site and GR if I think it something I'd like to recommend to people, but I will not rate it. Just share :)

2. Books/stories in which I'm minorly involved (such as I do a final proof read), I will review and put a note on the bottom that says something like "Read as a proof."

3. Books/stories in which I'm not involved at all with editing/proofing, I'll just note that I am associated with Riptide Publishing.

4. If I really hate a book (which, considering the quality of work I've seen them put out, I don't see happening, but IF), I won't be reviewing it, in order to be fair to everyone (including myself). However, the powers that be have said they do not want my position to make my reviews dishonest and I'm given the green light to be completely honest in my reviews, as I've always tried to be.

You'll notice I didn't put a disclosure on "The Heart's Greater Silence." That's because I received the book to review before I started my position. You'll notice in my next review (of Blacker Than Black, hopefully posted tonight), I will have a disclosure.

I hope this clarifies everything and yada yada yada :)

Interview: Rhi Etzweiler

2012-01-24T07:00:00.007-05:00

I'm very excited to have Rhi Etzweiler visiting my little, ol' blog today!

Rhi is coauthor of Dark Edge of Honor (click the link to see my review) and author of the new (kind of amazingly awesome) Blacker Than Black (see below for more details). Without further

ado, here's Rhi:

How much research goes into your books and how do you go about it?
Most of my works are sufficiently “speculative fiction” in nature that the greater part of research is in the minor details. One of the characters in
BTB, for instance, has synaesthesia. I did a good bit of reading on it when I discovered that this character’s unique perceptions actually had a medical term—but in the end, I interviewed a couple people who were willing to be open about their experiences. And then I sent the final version of the story to another individual to get their impression of how the character is portrayed.

Having subject-specific betas for this sort of thing is almost mandatory. There’s a fine line between fictionalization and authenticity. Whatever an author weaves into the story, it has to be sufficiently based in fact and believable that it won’t jolt a reader out.

What’s your favorite book and/or which book do you wish you’d written?
On both counts, Ludlum’s original Jason Bourne trilogy (I couldn’t possibly choose between them, please don’t make me). I discovered them when I was barely old enough to read the words and understand them, and I loved the main character and the story line so very, very much. I have many books that I’d call favorite, but if you threaten me with bodily harm, this is the answer you’d get. The quintessential soldier, who wants nothing more than to be left in peace, doing what he must to survive.

Which of your characters do you relate to the most?
This is difficult. I’ve been writing stories for so long that the cast of characters is enormous. I relate to all of them on some level, and as I’ve evolved and matured through the course of my life, the older muses have retired to Bora Bora, been reinvented, or evolved along with me. It’s like asking me what my favorite song is—it depends on what mood you catch me in!

What was the high point of the past year for you?
[ETA: response originally slated for beginning of December] This has been a year of firsts for me as an author – and to say it’s been a rollercoaster ride full of high points would sound so cliché but it’s the honest truth. I’ve had my debut publication, my solo debut, received my first royalty payment. I’ve had an artist all but pluck the imagery from my head for the cover of BTB. And despite all that, I think the high point of this year is yet to come. After all, we still have a month to go, right? Sickeningly optimistic of me, isn’t it. Which is unusual. Perhaps I brewed my coffee too strong this morning?

What are you looking forward to in the coming year?
Oh, the stories I want to tell! I have a couple that are rattling their cages to get out, it’s just a matter of finding the time and energy—the headspace—to sit down and bang them out. Specifically, the sequel to Blacker Than Black which has a working title of “Blood Red,” and an epic military fantasy that I’ve been evolving and nurturing for some time. There are times when I wish I could spend all day every day just writing – turn the phone and internet off, and just write. Sadly, I can’t be the hermit-artist, it doesn’t work that way.

Care to tell us about your coming attractions [or latest release, whichever the case may be]?
Riptide released Blacker Than Black on Monday, and I don’t know that words can do justice to how excited I’ve been about this book since they contracted it in 2011.

Here’s the blurb:

Apparently, my twin and I are two of York’s most notorious criminals. We’ve been Nightwalkers in the blue-light district since the vamps took over the world. Don’t know how many years it’s been. Long enough that a stream of fellow ’walkers have come and gone. Most don’t last long selling their chi. End up face-down in the gutter, or worse.

For us, one night and one sale change everything.

Monsieur Garthelle is the first john to hunt me down. He calls me a chi thief in one breath and offers absolution—servitude—in the next. Maybe I’m a sucker, but I like living and breathing. Strange that such a powerful vamp would show leniency to a mere human. And something’s not right with the chi I took from him. It won’t go away.

Neither will he, and he’s forcing us to spy on his peers. Then a vamp turns up dead, and we go from playing eyes and ears to investigating a murder. This isn’t what I signed up for. All I ever wanted was to sell a little chi, maybe steal some in return. I should’ve kept my damn hands to myself.

This is my story. Look through my eyes.

You can find more about Rhi Etzweiler on the following pages:

Email address: RhiAnon.etzweiler@gmail.com

Website: http://www.rhianonetzweiler.com

Blog: http://rhianonetzweiler.blogspot.com

Twitter: @musefodder

Facebook Profile: here

Goodreads Profile: here

Amazon Author Page: here

Google+ Profile: here

Get Dark Edge of Honor here

Order Blacker Than Black here

Now for the prizes! [apologies, I had the wrong content posted at first!]

Individual: One randomly selected commenter at each stop will receive a signed cover card and magnet. Open to all, regardless of location (winner selected from all comments posted to blog at 11:59pm EST).

Tour: Two winners to be selected at random from drawing of all comments on tour (entry ending Feb. 2nd, 11:59pm EST – comments with date/time stamps after this time will not be counted). Restricted to mainland US and Canada only, for shipping purposes. First winner will receive an autographed tote bag and pen, signed cover flat, and large magnet. Second winner will receive a t-shirt (size XL), pen, signed cover flat, and small magnet.

To enter: comment on blogposts in the promo tour with your valid email address. A selected winner who does not respond within 48 hours of notification with valid street address for shipping purposes will forfeit by default, and author reserves the right to select an alternate recipient.

The winner will be announced January 31!

Thanks for stopping by.

Counterpoint (Song of the Fallen, #1) by Rachel Haimowitz

2012-01-22T19:37:00.001-05:00

Counterpoint (Song of the Fallen, #1) by Rachel Haimowitz
Stars: 5/5

Length: 120,700 words (414 pages)
Blurb
It is the twilight of mankind. Depleted by generations of war with a dark race, the human kingdoms and their ancient alliance stand on the brink of extinction. The outlands are soaked with the blood of the fallen. The midlands are rotting with decadence and despair.

Elfkind, estranged by past crimes, watches and waits for nature to run its course.

And then the two collide.

Ayden's life has long been guided by two emotions: love for his sister, and hatred of all things human. When he's captured in battle, he must for his sister's sake swallow his pride and endure slavery in the service of a human prince, Freyrik Farr.

Freyrik's always known elves to be beautiful and dangerous, but never has one affected him as deeply as Ayden. Can his life of service to his people leave room for this attraction? Dancing on a dagger's edge between duty and high treason, Freyrik discovers that some choices can change a life, and some an entire world.

Between prejudice, politics, pride, and survival, Ayden and Freyrik must carve a new path, no matter how daunting. For nothing less than the fate of both their peoples rests on the power of their perseverance—and their love.

Overall
The first of two books telling Ayden and Freyrik's story, I'd recommend readers diving in to the story be prepared to have Crescendo on hand after finishing Counterpoint. The novel is lengthy, a slow build from enemies to lovers, but the emotions on both end are eloquently executed as the pair learns to trust and care for one another while navigating the landmines their races' history has thrown in the way.

While this story is definitely a romance, it is just as equally an epic fantasy, where mankind is battling against supernatural monsters in order to survive and elves wield nature's magic. The fight for survival and victory is just as central to the story as the battle for their relationship. This is an amazing adventure of the heart and the mind that drives the reader to the cusp, clinging on by the tips of the fingers.

Strengths
Although I'd love to list every positive attribute of this novel, I'll refrain and only pick those points that jumped out at me. However, this book really encompasses the definition of epic fantasy romance and is epic-ly fantastic (see what I did there?).

The first thing I noticed when I started reading was the strength and natural flow of the writing, followed by the incredible world development. Although Haimowitz's world takes from some general mythos (elves have magical powers, humans are ~~bitchy~~ angry), she also makes this world her own, building up unique enemies and social mores. The world is painted beautifully--in the case of the elves--and darkly--in the case of the human world--bringing to life the characters that inhabit it.

Ayden and Freyrik are interesting, unique characters who clash wonderfully and meld together just as hotly. But they aren't the only characters who bring life to this story. Along with various bullies (the lead of which is the First Wife), Freyrik's right-hand man (Lord Lini) is a shining example of a good friend. I think because he has so little to gain by being so loyal, his loyalty is all the more precious. The various characters add a level of depth, and although the cast is expansive, the flow of actors is expertly handled to avoid confusion and clutter.

Finally, the plot. Oh the plot. A mix of master trying to win a slave's heart, two warriors clashing, a fight for survival of the human race, and a ribbon of political intrigue that taints it all. There is so much in this story to feast on that you will finish it sated--and hungry for more. Thankfully, the next book promises to be just as hearty. While this plot isn't fast faced, it's detailed and thorough, leaving the reader guessing while vibrating with anxiety to see what becomes of the heroes.

Weaknesses
Not a weakness, but something to be warned going in: This is part one of two parts. Just like Lord of the Rings, the book ends without complete resolution of important matters that are to be resolved in the second book.

Another word of warning, while this isn't a slow or sedate novel, it does take time to build in order for everything to fall into place. It is not a short little romance, but that is also what makes it so amazing. There is a fair amount of politics involved, and I imagine there will be more in the second novel, but it's balanced by the character development and danger--from external and internal factors.

Note: I linked to the Riptide Publishing version above, but I read the first printing from Guiltless Pleasure Publishing.

The Heart's Greater Silence by Anne Brooke

2012-01-19T21:27:00.004-05:00

The Heart's Greater Silence by Anne Brooke
Stars: 4.5/5

Length: 8,800 words
Blurb
Mark isn’t sure he believes in love, especially when he’s torn between two very different men: his reliable boyfriend, Craig, and his illicit lover and priest, Richard.

Mark knows what he should do, but he can’t bring himself to give Richard up. The sex with Richard is unlike anything he’s ever known with Craig, and he hungers for it as much as—if not more than—the truer intimacy he finds in his boyfriend’s arms.

When Craig discovers his betrayal, Mark is forced to look at his life more closely, but the path to self-knowledge is never an easy one. Richard seeks the way back to God, but Mark finds no solace there. Can he ever discover the truth of his own soul, or is he too afraid of what he will—or won’t—find inside his heart?

Overall
A bitterly beautiful story about a man whose love and lust are torn and he must decide what to do while trying to figure out what he really wants in his heart.

Although romance and love are themes of this story, this is not a traditional romance by any means. In many ways it's an anti-romance, as the unfolding events break apart a relationship, not bring it together. Because of this, readers searching for a happy ending should steer clear. However, keep this in mind: Normally I need a happy ending, but I still enjoyed this short story, despite it's un-fulfilling resolution. The author's strong command of language and the painful peeling back of emotional layers makes this story one that is worth bleeding through.

Received this book for review.

bonus review:

WHAT by Missy Welsh
Stars: 4/5

Length: 13 pages
Blurb
Sam thinks his boss is about to fire him for causing disturbances in the tattoo shop, but Jeremy really just has something to reveal.

Overall
A cute little (free) story that involves a young man who stutters and has a crush on his (straight) boss. Although the plot line may not be anything new, I really liked Sam and the author's use of stuttering to show Sam's emotional status. Both the characters are highly enjoyable and the interaction between the two is heart warming. A good stand alone story that may fall into a lot of tropes but the story's enjoyment overpowers any of that. Definitely worth a read, especially if you want an upper.

A Fluffy Tale 2: Warm and Fuzzy by Ann Somerville

2012-01-15T20:27:00.001-05:00

A Fluffy Tale 2: Warm and Fuzzy by Ann Somerville
Stars: 4/5

Length: 56,000
Blurb
Daniel wants to be an engineer, but when his parents die in an accident, he gives up his studies and takes a office position to support his young brother and sister. He hates his new job, but never expects to find himself in serious danger, or to need help from the amazingly tall, kind and good-looking Spen, his friends, Julian, Leo and Zachary, and, of course, their clever kems.

Overall
A lovely follow-up story to the first, this novel has the same delightful kems, some return characters, plus new characters and more action. Although the character development isn't as in depth, the quicker pace gives good character growth in a shorter amount of time.

Despite some of the heavy topics dealt with in this novel, this isn't an overly emotional story, as the weight of the matter is balanced out by the strength of the characters. I found this to be a charming tale with charming characters and an overall warm feeling throughout the story. A good tale for curling up with on a relaxing day.

Strengths
Sometimes writing is so good you cannot help but notice the poetry of the language. Sometimes it's so bad you cannot help but notice the bumbling language. This writing is so natural that you do not notice it. You float along the words that carry you through the story. The writing is good, strong and consistent, but because the story demands it, the writing becomes secondary, letting the characters and the plot blossom.

There is a relatively simple, but enjoyable plot that allows some action and heated emotions to bleed through while dealing with the larger events, but the main characters aren't stars or heroes, just characters like you'd expect to happen in real life. I like that the plot almost seems to happen around the characters rather than to the characters and much of it is outside their control. In addition, the simplicity of the plot allows the reader to focus on the characters and relationships.

Spen and Daniel's dynamic brings a certain level of comfort to the story, as they both come across as being very human in their reactions and emotions. Spen is trying to be a good guy and a good friend, while Daniel struggles to not be viewed as a victim or a charity case while not wanting to push Spen away too far, since he likes the guy. As with the previous novel, I like that the romance isn't rushed but developed over time. This allows us to get to know the characters and let their relationship come across organically.

Weaknesses
Oddly enough, despite this story having a stronger element of “rich man swoops down and saves poor man,” it bothered me less here. Maybe because the poor man did need saved and it wasn't on a purely financial level. Maybe it's because I have a giant soft spot in my heart for Leo. Maybe it's because Daniel needs to be saved so very much and I'm a romantic. Either way, be warned that money is used not to solve problems, necessarily, but definitely to make life peachy-keen. However, the events surrounding the use of money to solve problems is secondary to the main story and isn't really a weakness in my estimation.

Although there were very few (to no) weaknesses in this story, it also lacked anything to really blow me away and impress me, thus keeping it from a 5-star rating. However, it's a good, solid tale that's well written, plotted, and developed.

A Fluffy Tale by Ann Somerville

2012-01-12T18:40:00.003-05:00

A Fluffy Tale by Ann Somerville
Stars: 3.5/5

Length: 49,000 words
Blurb
Julian has a furry ball of trouble to deal with. A tall, dark stranger may provide the solution — but maybe the complications are more than he can handle.

A Fluffy Tale will appeal to lovers of romance and small cute ferret-shaped mammals alike.

Overall
The blurb for this story doesn't do it justice. Here we are introduced to Julian and Mr. Talk, Dark and Grumpy. I was also under the impression this was a short story (I missed the word count and the use of the word "Tale" in the title made me think short story for some reason). Still, I trusted the author and the blurb enchanted me enough to give it a try.

I enjoyed this story, although it felt like two parts of one story as the first half "fixes" Julian and the second half "fixes" Zachary. To that end, I was expecting something different to happen than what did, but that's my fault for assuming. In the end I was pleased with how everything figured out and the path that was taken to get there. A slow, sweet romance that is perfect for a nice lounging read.

Strengths
The kems (ferret-like creatures that have a physical presence, but are capable of vanishing into their host's body) are absolutely adorable. I'd re-read this story again on their presence alone. Each kem, like each host, has a unique personality and that personality does not always mesh with their host. Not much is explained about them, because people don't seem to know anything much about them. It doesn't really matter much for the story. Their presence is enough.

The pace at which events progress and information is revealed works to slowly build the characters, both their background (and baggage) and also their evolution into the characters they are at the end.

While the length and pace are a little slow, I feel for the story being told, it was appropriate, as sudden changes would seem uncharacteristic. While not an action-packed story, it rests on its own merits and is very nice for a mellow day's reading.

The kems and Leo bring a wonderful flavor of character to this story with their playfulness and plotting nature. The serious nature of the two main characters and their relationship is balanced by these other characters, lightening tense moods and raising the spirits of the main characters. They almost play the part of children, helping action along, making mischief happen, and otherwise goofing off.

Weaknesses
This is may be something that only bothers me, but this toed the line of "the rich man swooshes in to rescue the poor man." It's not that type of story, although there are definitely elements of it (mostly at the fault of pushy Leo, who I loved). Still, if rich men getting what they want annoys you, even if it helps the not-quite-as-rich, consider this a head's up. However, I don't think it will bother most people.

The nature of this story does not lend it to a fast pace, and parts in the middle dragged a little. Worth reading, but this isn't the story to turn to if searching for an action-packed novel.

Striker by KyAnn Waters

2012-01-09T21:23:00.002-05:00

Striker by KyAnn Waters
Stars: 2.5/5

Length: 16,000 words
Blurb
Sports writer Max Myers just discovered he lives next door to the hottest soccer player to hit the field. If he scores a coveted interview with the reclusive striker for the Denver Blaze, he could take himself from sports blogger to mainstream sports authority.

Riley Grayson has no interest in interviews or in outing his private life to the public. He wants to be known for the scoring he does on the field and not in the sack. But Max is a temptation he can't resist. Taking a chance, Riley and Max discover they have more in common than passion for soccer and hot sex between the sheets.

Just as they begin to trust each other outside the bedroom, Max is put in a no-win situation: write an article about Riley exposing accusations of drug use, or risk destroying his own credibility. If he does, he'll lose Riley. If he doesn't, he'll lose everything he's worked hard to achieve.

Overall
This novella is first and foremost erotica. While the premise is interesting, the sex overpowers the plot, and heavy sex stories aren't my cup of tea. These especially didn't really do it for me. In addition, the plot had more potential than was explored. If you want hot, heavy sex with soccer players, this is the book to go to, but otherwise, it doesn't satisfy many appetites.

Strengths
The writing was good, and sound enough that I would consider reading something else by this author, and some people with different tastes may enjoy the content of this story, but for me, sex isn't enough to drive me to continue reading or recommend this story.

Weaknesses
Too much sex and not enough plot. In addition, the sex didn't really grab me either, although that could purely be a personal preference. I found it to be a little heavy on over-used language. Finally, during the sex scenes, certain terms threw me out of the story: He slid a fraction deeper. Max moaned as the muscles melted and Riley slid deep into his rectum. Whether or not it is factually correct, there is just something that makes me scrunch my nose at the use of the word rectum, potentially due to it sounding more medical than casual.

Because so much of the story revolved around sex, the characters felt a little flat to me. The struggle of "if I reveal this it could ruin my career" seemed almost too easy to overcome, and Max didn't seem to struggle at all with going against what Riley asked--demanded--he not do. Obviously Max knew he wouldn't do anything to harm Riley's career, but he didn't seem to be weighted by the thought of hurting this man he loved, either.

These two fell into the sack extremely quickly due to their instant chemistry. I would buy it if Riley didn't have so many reservations about his privacy. In one paragraph he goes from thinking he shouldn't sleep with Max to the next paragraph where he propositions him. Considering Riley was supposed to be worried about exposing himself to a reporter, he seemed to have no qualms doing just that to a man (and journalist) that he just met.

Requested this book for review.

The Time of the Singing by Louise Blaydon

2012-01-05T21:58:00.001-05:00

The Time of the Singing by Louise Blaydon
Stars: 4/5

Length: 200 pages
Blurb
Raised by devout parents, Israfel Vacek is a teenager before he realizes he may be turning into someone his parents would shun. When he confesses his fears to his brother, Michael suggests Raf might be able to save himself if he joins the clergy.

Though Raf is well-suited to the clerical life, enjoying the piety of his parishioners, his homosexual desires don't go away. Still, Raf is able to repress them, until one young churchman decides he wants Raf for himself. Nate Mulligan is a bundle of contradictions, a devout believer who insists their love can't be wrong, and Raf finds himself powerless to resist.

At first, Raf puts his guilt out of his mind, but when a misunderstanding brings his relationship with Nate to Michael's attention, Raf realizes he has to make a choice: give up Nate to serve the Church and save his relationship with his family… or find his own path to grace and save himself.

Overall
For people who get squimish about age differences in stories, be aware that the leading males are 17 and 29. Seventeen is the age of consent in the state where the story takes place, so nothing illegal is going on.

This is a very different novel and a very different romance. While it is indeed a romance, the religious themes and Raf's struggles are almost more central to the story. Of course, if it weren't for the romance in the novel, Raf's struggles wouldn't be revealed, so the two go hand in hand. For people looking for a light, modern romance, this isn't going to be the story for you. The religion in this novel definitely gives the story more weight, and steals some of the show as Raf anguishes over anything that would make him happy—but disappoint his family and church. I still felt it was enjoyable, and those who like religion with their romance will be pleased with how this story unfolds.

The writing is in third person present tense, which may distract some readers, but after a while, I didn't notice, though each time I picked up the book, I was like “Oh hey, it's in present tense!” (Yes, almost every time. Which was probably thrice.) The writing was strong and artistic, providing details about the actions and surroundings that may not be necessary to the events but paint a lovely image. However, keeping this in mind, the writing style and tense may not suit everyone's personal tastes.

Strengths
Blaydon either researched this novel thoroughly or has expansive experience with the Roman Catholic Church and the priesthood. Everything was extremely realistic, and although I'm not an expert, I was raised Catholic and it felt believable. What I also liked was that the author didn't villain-ize the RCC either. While the church wasn't shown accepting homosexuality (which would have been misleading), it was portrayed as “homosexuality cannot always be 'fixed' and if so then the person should just live a celibate life,” which is what the main character is doing.

Religion obviously plays an important role throughout the novel and both main characters are extremely religious, although Nate is more liberal in some of his philosophies about religion and the Church. I felt the balance between representing “old thoughts” (mainly through Michael, Raf's brother) and “new thoughts” (via Nate) was well handled and although it sides with the new (wouldn't be much of a romance novel if it didn't), the more traditional mindset wasn't degraded, just disagreed with.

The feel of the novel, whether it is Raf's faith, the everyday church activities, or the affair with Nate, really worked to build this into the story it ultimately is. While the events evolve slowly to culminate in the climax, the story isn't so much in what is happening, but everything that's going on as it is happening. How Raf faces truths and confrontation is really the focus of the novel, making it more a study of people and humanity―and faith―than just a character study.

Weaknesses
Some of the ending felt a little too happily-ever-after, and it could have ended earlier. However, this is personal preference, as some may have equal complaints if it ended otherwise. I didn't mind the extended ending, but things worked out too neatly, I felt, even if it required some broken relationships. In addition, Michael, who plays such a major role in Raf's life, is never given a complete resolution. While this is realistic, I felt like some type of confrontation between them would have been warranted.

One point that I'm not sure is a weakness, but I've seen mentioned elsewhere is that Raf falls into bed with Nate very quickly. I felt it represented how unfit Raf was for celibacy, so it didn't bother me, although to some degree it was unnerving that he was willing to break his sacred vows so quickly.

Nate as a whole is difficult to read, since we never see inside his head. From the beginning he is cocksure, confident, and a bit of a player. When he and Raf fall into bed, it is understandable that Raf thinks Nate is just sleeping with him for the novelty, or just because he's “available,” leaving Raf feeling unsure of where he stands. Nate seems to be very religious, but has no qualms with his sexuality or premarital sex (with different partners at different times). He felt like bit of an enigma to me and I imagine to Raf, and I would have liked to have gotten to know him better so he didn't come across as such a hyper-sexual teen. On the other hand, that is how Raf thinks of him, at least in the beginning, so maybe this was intentional.

Despite the number of weaknesses, or potential weaknesses, I found this novel to be intriguing in the choices it makes and the directions it heads. I think the story fits best with readers with an interest in religion/spirituality, but I would not dissuade any reader from picking up this book.

Requested this book for review.

To Adam With Love by Adrienne Wilder

2012-01-02T17:56:00.003-05:00

To Adam With Love by Adrienne Wilder
Stars: 4.5/5

Length: 230 pages
Blurb
Adam's mother brought him as a child to the Gray Zone, the no man's land between the crumbling city and the Dens where the Kin-the Dragons-and Lesser-Breds-their mixed-blood-offspring-live. He was different, not completely Human, and she knew fear and prejudice would drive people to do horrible things... like a father trying to kill his son. Five years later, Adam's father is behind bars and Adam has come home to the Zone, the last place anyone would expect innocence, loyalty, and devotion, to complete his becoming Lesser-Bred and find his best friend and only love, Ean.

But Ean has a life of his own. He's always wanted to belong to Batu, the Male Kin who has watched over him since childhood, but now Ean's caught in a deadly trap of biology and vengeance: he isn't enough to feed his beloved Adam during the dangerous transformation, and Kin won't allow an emotional bond in their midst. Years ago Ean lost Adam after failing to keep him safe. Now that Adam is back, will a simple feeling give Ean the strength to defy everything he's ever known and keep them together?

Overall
I put this book off again and again because going in I knew it was going to be a darker novel and I kept telling myself I wasn't in the mood. However, while it is a darker novel, it's not bleak. It takes the reader along a twisted path full of thorns and prickers, but it doesn't rip out the heart, stomp on it, then stitch it back in. Instead the central themes are love and emotions, as Adam is afraid of losing his humanity, and Ean is slowly trying to understand his own humanity beyond physicality.

Parts of this story dragged for me, but only because I wanted to know the ending and how the author worked out all the different problems that the characters were facing, which speaks highly of the plot that Wilder created. I would recommend this to most, but for readers of fantasy and dystopian futures, this should definitely be something to check out.

Strengths
While he's not mentioned in the blurb, there is actually a love triangle involved in the story. Ean and Adam love one another, but there is a young man named Brian from their past who also loves Adam, and Adam feels attraction in return. The play of these three characters was amazingly supple, to the point where I thought I knew how things would end up, but little moments would leave me guessing how exactly the lovers would pair off.

Speaking of the end--without spoiling everything, since spoilers would damage the enjoyment of this book, I feel―I really liked how everything unfolded and was resolved. I had one minor niggle involving Adam's father, but overall I was surprised, pleasantly, with what happened. I definitely wasn't expecting things to go that way, but it also didn't blindside me.

Wilder creates a very interesting and thought out world here, and I look forward to reading more of it in the second novel Worth. Although there wasn't much explanation for why there was a nest of these dragons who masquerade as humans, and it's never mentioned if there are other nests, I enjoyed the ample information that was given. The world, word usage, and culture surrounding the Kin was detailed without bogging down the story and felt organic within the plot.

Weaknesses
Most (if not every) chapter started with a flashback from when Adam and Ean were kids. While this was vital for supplying history about the characters and building up their relationship, especially in the beginning, it also became a little tedious toward the end when events were quickly unfurling and I wanted the story and I wanted it immediately. In someways it interfered with the natural flow and I felt it could have been used more judiciously, but it in no way ruined the book.

There is a glossary in the beginning that goes over many of the terms that are used pretty consistently through the book. While this works in paperback from, in ebook form it becomes pretty much inaccessible. For the most part the reader can use a single reading of the glossary and context of sentences to know what is happening, and by the end the words are second nature. However, I found two words (chela, which means claws, and chetra, which means humans) to be near enough in spelling that the first instance of chetra had me confusing it with chela. A minor inconvenience that was easily fixed by context clues, but for readers who have difficulty with learning new vocabulary, be advised.

Requested this book for review.

Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary by David Sedaris

2011-12-31T19:59:00.004-05:00

Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary by David Sedaris
Stars: 2.5/5

Length: 176 pages (with smaller pages and larger print than normal)
Blurb
If animals were more like us, if mice kept pets and toads could cuss, if dogs had wives and chipmunks dated, sheep sat still and meditated, then in the forest, field, and dairy you might find this bestiary, read by storks, by rats and kitties, skimmed by cows with milk-stained titties. "I found the book to be most droll," might quip the bear, the owl, the mole, Others, though, would be more coarse. "Bull," could say the pig and horse. As to the scribe, they'd quote the hen: "Trust me, he's no La Fontaine."

Overall
"An adult Aesop's fables" is the best description I've heard of these stories, which range from comical to horrifying and bizarre. Scratch that, almost all the stories are bizarre. Take all the qualities of people (good and bad) and put them into animals and you have this collection of stories which exposes the worst of humans. Many of the stories will make the reader uncomfortable with its raw honesty and dark humor, but they are well written and thought provoking, even if you really didn't want to think about it.

Strengths
The illustrations that accompany this book are something slightly more than sketches, done mostly in black and white with red/orange highlights. The style works really well for the type of story, imitating a children's book simplicity while sometimes showing adult content (nothing obscene).

The writing is good, harkening back to Aesop's direct style but also sometimes being more narrative. The content is creative and interesting, although again, not to everyone's tastes. Because it points out the flaws of people, the stories can be rather grating (as they're meant to, I assume) with flashes of humor. If I had stopped halfway through this book, I would have been unsatisfied with it, but by the end we are giving a bit more humor and less idiots, and I found the final story was my favorite (and not just because it's illustrated with a hippo's anus).

Weaknesses
Because of the content and humor, this book isn't for everyone. Fans of David Sedaris will find something very different from his usual stories, but will probably enjoy it nonetheless. I know I did. However, even enjoying the stories didn't mean I loved them, and thankfully it was short and quick read. Enjoyable, if it's your thing, but definitely not for everyone.

The Forester by Blaine D. Arden

2011-12-29T19:01:00.002-05:00

The Forester by Blaine D. Arden
Stars: 3/5

Length: 18,600 words
Blurb
Kelnaht, a cloud elf, is a truth seeker caught between love and faith. Worse, a murder committed ten days before Solstice reveals an illicit affair between two tree elves he desires more than he can admit: Kelnaht's former lover Ianys, who once betrayed him, and the shunned forester named Taruif, who is not allowed to talk to anyone but The Guide, their spiritual pathfinder. When Taruif turns out to be the only witness for the crime, Kelnaht has to keep Ianys from sacrificing himself and losing his daughter, while at the same time realising he'd gladly sacrifice himself to end Taruif's loneliness.

Overall
With enjoyable characters, a twisty romance plot, and murder case to move it all along, "The Forester" is an enjoyable, although regrettably short, read. Arden does a commendable job of building the world in a short amount of time and has a strong writing style. However, the story could have been strengthened by further development of the characters and their relationships and my enjoyment was restricted by my struggle to believe the emotional interactions.

I enjoyed the nugget we received, but would have loved to see more development. I feel my review below is harsher than I mean it to sound, as I did enjoy the story and the writing, but the two driving forces have weaker elements that detract from it's score.

Strengths
Arden is a strong story teller capable of painting a very nice picture of the world, the characters, and the scenes. The Kelnaht's conflicts involving his heart, go a long way to developing his character, as do his interactions with the Guide, who I find to be the most intriguing character of the story. The writing is such that I would definitely check out other works by this author.

While the world creation isn't too deep, the reader is provided all the necessary facts while not being given too much information. The perfect balance of provided and implied lets the reader supply with imagination anything that isn't told. In addition, a highly appropriate cover adds multiple details to the mind's eye.

Weaknesses
The murder plot felt somewhat secondary to the relationship plot, although it motivated several events. The mystery lacked suspense and as a result I didn't really care who'd-dun-it. It worked as a tool to bring The Forester into dealings with the Truth Seeker, but aside from that, it fell a little flat as there didn't seem to be an energy driving the investigation. I also wish that we had been given more about why the Forester was exiled before the end, although I am glad we were told eventually.

While I liked the romance and the struggle there, the story didn't give much space for understanding why the characters were drawn to each other and were willing to make the sacrifices they did for one another. I felt like it could have been expanded into a novella easily to build all the background that was needed to really understand any of the emotional draws between any of the characters but the ones who had once been together. That said, if you're able to suspend needing to know a reason, the story plays out very well.

Received this book for review.

Bent by Sean Michael

2011-12-28T20:59:00.003-05:00

Bent by Sean Michael
Stars: 3/5

Length: 492 pages
Blurb
Marcus knows Jim is his minutes after meeting the snarly, jumpy ex-professor at the local bookstore. He thinks Jim is a natural submissive, someone who needs order and discipline in his life to help with Jim's anxiety and bad health habits. So Marcus decides to pursue Jim relentlessly, because even if Jim's mouth is saying no, his body is saying yes.

There's a lot more to Jim than meets the eye, and Marcus will have to be careful. Jim knows what it means to lose everything, knows what it's like to be without friends or family. Jim feels broken, and knowing that he likes the kinds of weird things Marcus wants to do to him only makes him scared that he's losing his mind.

Their chemistry is so real, so genuine, that Jim lets Marcus wear him down, lets Marcus take control. Eventually, his trust grows, allowing them to enter into the BDSM lifestyle together, learning about each other every day, with every scene. Jim is still uncertain sometimes, though, and he thinks Marcus might just want him because he's cracked. Can this top and bottom pair find a way to understand their wants and needs, and make a life that works for them alone?

Overall
This book is classic Sean Michael material, meaning it's heavy on sex and light on plot. It's also extremely long, which is probably why many people get half way and give up. Not much happens during the course of the book action-wise, but there are character changes over the course of the novel. The focus of the novel is Jim's issues and Marcus' attempts to help Jim overcome his issues, accept who he is, and deal with the complications he faces in life.

Fans of Sean Michael's works will probably enjoy this, but most readers will probably find its too long, too slow, and too much sex. Many people also voiced complaints about Jim being forced into the situation, and there is a fuzzy section in the beginning when the consent is questionable, but nothing is non-con or dub-con really. Although this novel tries hard to really explore Jim's mind and the ways of the lifestyle, it went on for a little too long to really keep my interest. Although I know the focus of Michael's books is the sex, I felt fewer sex scenes would have been more poignant.

Strengths
Michael's Doms tend to always be right and know what's best for the sub. Marcus is no exception, although in one instance he says something that angers Jim enough to make him safeword and be truly angry (not just throwing a hissy fit). I liked this moment because it really humanizes Marcus and doesn't make him out to be a strong, perfect being who can do no wrong.

The exploration of Jim's issues and his slow progression over those issues is interesting. I also have to give some props to the author for taking the time to make the advancements timed realistically and there were no magical moments when everything was better. In fact, progression takes place over a long period of time and advancements are not always forward as events trigger old thoughts and behaviors. This felt more realistic than the stories where a problematic sub is instantly fixed by the know-it-all dom, even if it did lead to a rather lengthy story.

Weaknesses
While the length of this story isn't automatically a weakness, the length in addition to the slow (and somewhat lacking) plot, leave the reader trudging through the events. While not miserable, it probably leads many readers to give up since there is very little incentive to continue. This story would best be read when in a very mellow mood or read in small pieces to space out the slight monotony.

While I understand sex is a focal point of Michael's books, I felt with the length of this one, more copy (aka, sex scenes) could be cut without interrupting Jim's emotional progression, thus making a quicker, smoother read. The story dragged out for a very long time with very little climactic tension, etc, and while some readers may enjoy the story purely for the sex scenes, those who need a bit more will find this novel lacking.

Cop Out by KC Burn

2011-12-27T17:36:00.002-05:00

Cop Out by KC Burn
Stars: 4.5/5

Length: 194 pages
Blurb
Detective Kurt O’Donnell is used to digging up other people’s secrets, but when he discovers his slain partner was married to another man, it shakes him. Determined to do the right thing, Kurt offers the mourning Davy his assistance. Helping Davy through his grief helps Kurt deal with the guilt that his partner didn’t trust him enough to tell him the truth, and somewhere along the way Davy stops being an obligation and becomes a friend, the closest friend Kurt has ever had.

His growing attraction to Davy complicates matters, leaving Kurt struggling to reevaluate his sexuality. Then a sensual encounter neither man is ready for confuses them further. To be with Davy, Kurt must face the prospect of coming out, but his job and his relationship with his Catholic family are on the line. Can he risk destroying his life for the uncertain possibility of a relationship with a newly widowed man?

Overall
Despite really enjoying this novel, its story, the writing, and the characters, I can't quite give it a full five stars because of some weak points, which I'll discuss later. This was a powerful, moving story that had me curled up on the couch, eagerly reading to see what happened next. The natural flow kept me from putting it down and the emotional draw kept me reading.

Although there are some weaker elements in this story, overall it excels in provoking the desired emotions and exploring Kurt's situation. The writing's strength made even the weaknesses forgivable as they just tended to be expected and foreseeable, not necessarily bad choices. The novel isn't action heavy, with only two real action-based events. For the most part this is a study of relationships and psychology, both for Kurt and Davy. For people who like that, this will be highly enjoyable. Even with the focus being the relationship, this didn't read slowly. Definitely recommend, as long as you're not looking for high action.

Strengths
The gradual development of the relationship between the two characters was extremely well built as they transition from being complete strangers to best friends and then something more. The subtle bits, like Kurt's casual acceptance that he likes touching Davy to comfort him because he was raised in a touchy household, work wonderfully to take their friendship and blur the lines without Kurt realizing what's happening--or at least it gives him an excuse for why it is.

Kurt's complete acceptance of Ben's (and Davy's) sexuality was refreshing. He didn't suffer from closet-gay or unknowing-gay syndrome and immediately hate gays because he hated himself. In fact, his realization, while in some parts suffered from the classic realization model, was not so much a struggle to accept being gay, but accepting the shift of self-perception from "I'm straight" to "I'm gay."

The use of Ben, who has one line and no actual screen time, was well used as a tool to bring Davy and Kurt together, but also as a comparison to both Kurt and for Simon. Although the contrast to Simon, the new partner, is apparent, the role Ben and Kurt both play in Davy's life is vital as their decisions affect him. For a character who barely appears, Ben played a huge role in the story.

There were plenty of tiny touches that I liked that went into this book, such as Kurt's family, Simon and Jen, Justin, and how the fall out and inevitable face-to-face encounter went. This story had the potentially to be mediocre, but was handled in such a way that even the cliche moments feel right in what is a heart-wrenching, feel-good love story.

Weaknesses
The weaknesses of the story are mostly superficial, such as one event at the end being rather predictable (although I still liked it). Kurt's reaction to their "sensual encounter" and the results of it seemed a little extreme if I thought about it too much, but overall I was so enthralled with what was happening that I didn't mind, but I am a sucker for suffering characters. Also, Kurt's reaction to coming to the realization that he's gay was a touch cliche, but such reactions are cliche because the hold a certain truth in them. It wasn't so overdone that it was boring and it wasn't dragged on too long, which was good.

Requested this book for review.

Gold Standard by Kyell Gold

2011-12-26T10:12:00.002-05:00

Gold Standard by Kyell Gold
Stars: 5/5

Length: 323 pages (estimated)
Blurb
Here are nine stories spanning Kyell Gold's career to date, including four Ursa Major Award-winning short stories and one story nominated for a WSFA Small Press Science Fiction award. Three of the stories originally appeared as stand-alone stories online and were later incorporated into the award-winning novels "Waterways" and "Out of Position."

This collection serves as an excellent introduction to the many worlds he has explored in the last decade, and includes his popular online stories "Aquifers" and "In Between." Also present is Kyell's first published story, "The Prisoner's Release," whose characters subsequently filled three novels and two short story anthologies.

Overall
Furries aren't really my thing (I feel like I've said that before), but I've heard good reviews about this author from other people who didn't really think they'd like a novel centered around furries. (Furries the anthropomorphic animals, not the humans who dress up like animals and have sex, just to clarify.) I was looking at Amazon's free reads and found this and decided to give it a shot.

The writing throughout these stories is excellent, which I think is necessary for success, especially for reaching readers who are less comfortable reading about this type of character. Gold not only has a mastery of language, but also does an excellent job of describing and developing characters and plot. Gold is comfortable and familiar with the created world and confidently strides through it, building things along the way to create visually stimulating masterpieces. Definitely worth looking in to, this collection introduces the reader to various series without forcing the purchase of said series in order to understand what is going on. If you're willing to dip your toes into the world of anthropomorphic animals, this is a great place to begin.

Aquifers
A good start to the anthology, we are eased into Gold's world and the sexuality that exists there. For most this will be a good indicator if you really can't stand the thought of two furries being in love and having sex. I fell in love with the characters, who are awkward sometimes, impossibly sweet, and pretty much standard high schoolers trying to find themselves and love. I love the themes of racism, class differences, and acceptance that are the secondary focus of the story outside the main character's exploration and self-acceptance. A good strong piece that is a perfect introduction. Although this story is continued into a novel, this one stands alone, satisfying the reader while creating interest in the rest of the tale.

In Between
This story has more sex and older characters as we're bumped up to college. Here a fox, playing as a female, seduces a tiger and gets him to thinking beyond his heterosexual desires. Perhaps a little too well, as he comes back, unable to get the fox out of his head. The sex scenes are well done, although the author doesn't let the reader forget that these are animals as things such as claws and tails are taken into consideration. A classic tale of a jock realizing he's not as straight as he thought and struggling to come to terms with it. I found the characters enjoyable and the fox is smart, witty, and a perfect foil to the tiger.

Secrets
A continuation of "In Between," this story works heavily with flashbacks, doing lots of time skips, which could be confusing, but it was well handled. Most of the events don't rely too heavily on when they take place, so the shifts aren't too discombobulating. Because I read this and the previous story back to back, they flowed easily into one another and I don't remember exactly what happened in each, but the main focus of this story is that the tiger has a secret and as the story progresses, different secrets are revealed until the big one at the end is displayed. I think the time jumps were handled well in this story, and it made me even more curious about where the rest of the tale goes.

Don't Blink
This story was weaker than the previous ones. Revolving around a young superhero trying to prove himself both to the police and the league of superheroes, Blink Coyote wants a nemesis and gets what he wants when his girlfriend gets captured. There were several things I enjoyed in this, including many of the side characters and Blink's general desire to be noticed. Other elements and turn of events fell flat and while they didn't necessarily feel forced, they didn't feel like a natural progression. More like they came from far left field. Still it was an overall enjoyable story for what it was.

Jacks to Open
Initially this story's focus is on gambling, which doesn't really interest me, but as everything unfolds, it becomes apparent that there is more there than some playing cards. I really enjoyed this story and the path that it took, although I admittedly wanted more (and the author made no mention of this story continuing). The characters are shady without being bad, and they can hold their own with one another, which I'm noticing is a theme with this author's relationships. There is an underlying magical-ish world that the reader just gets to dip toes in, something I'd like to see more of, especially with these two characters--although I can see the advantage of the mystery being half the fun.

Race to the Moon
A cute little story that is styled much like a fable, following a coyote and raven, which has a touch of romance in it. This was enjoyable, and I couldn't guess where it was going completely (aside from obvious things that fables tend to have). A nicely done effort.

Drifting
This was a difficult story for me to read, since it involves a relationship where at least one member of the couple is unhappy with certain aspects. I think everything was well handled, whether I liked the content or not, and I definitely felt for all the different characters. My main niggle with this story was that we never find out what is going on with the other person in the pair, even after he admits that it is "my problem." I would have liked more development there, even if it wasn't the focus of the story.

How to Get Through the Day
This story was written as a bonus story as an addition to another work by the author. While this story stands alone fairly well, it's obvious that it's building off of something that already exists and there are a lot of questions that I want answers to, which if this is used to tease the reader into purchasing Gold's works, it's a good thing! I liked the insecurity of both characters, especially the main one, and the construct of the story as a list that the main character goes through as his to-do list of every day. There are plenty of teases in the story, but it's also self-satisfying and good in its own right.

The Prisoner's Release
A very different story from the others, this one is dark (most of it takes place in a prison cell) and inhabits a more historical and royal-infested world. I felt that the story overall was good, although some parts at the end confused me since it seemed to conflict with what the main character had said at the beginning (though he could have been lying then, as is likely, but I was still confused about who was being loyal to whom, etc). I liked the two main characters and their dynamic, bouncing between wary trust and tentative emotions. Although not my favorite, it was still enjoyable.

And the winner is....

2011-12-24T10:33:00.005-05:00

Only slightly late, for which I apologize. But it's the holidays!

Congrats to....

Sabrina!

I'll be contacting you shortly for you to select which Rachel Haimowitz book you'd like.

Thank you for everyone who stopped by and left a note!

Men Under the Mistletoe, an anthology

2011-12-21T18:58:00.001-05:00

Men Under the Mistletoe, an anthology
Stars: 4/5

Length: 116,000 words
Blurb
Baby it's Cold Outside
A man receives the gift of pleasure at the hands of two expert lovers. Boyhood sweethearts get a second chance at romance. Two very proper gentlemen indulge their forbidden desires. And a Christmas tree farmer has an epiphany. It may be cold outside but these four holiday novellas will warm you up.

Overall
An excellent collection of four Christmas novellas, these stories capture the spirit of the holidays and warm you to your toes better than a cup of spiked cocoa. A nice mix of hot sex, warm loving, and cold shoulders, you may think you know how some of these end, but others will surprise you. Check these out for Christmas, or for any time you want to curl up with some holiday cheer.

My True Love Gave to Me by Ava March
Stars: 4/5
This is my first read of anything by March, so I don't know if somewhat-flowery language is the norm, but it definitely worked in this piece. I rarely read historicals, but I'm always impressed when I do and I can FEEL how much research and knowledge went into them. March obviously knows a thing or two about the time period and uses what I assume is all the appropriate language, although sometimes it may be a bit too much for those not familiar with the terms. The story starts off sweet, but the blurb tells us that it's not going to continue, which makes their secret kisses and Alexander's hopefulness all the more difficult to bear when the fallout happens.

Because the novella's blurb (not listed above) gives away the break up, I found the beginning a bit slow, since I knew what was going to happen. However, it was worth reading through, because it developed both characters as they were as youths--hopeful and adventurous yet kind, and sweet and self-sacrificing, always wanting to do the right thing. Seeing the change between the years and how the time altered them, made the changes more significant and the struggle for Thomas to prove himself to Alexander all the more daunting. While moments of the ending were a touch saccharine for my liking, it was a proper reward for all their emotional struggles.

Winter Knights by Harper Fox
Stars: 5/5
Twining together reality and the supernatural, Arthurian legend and love, this novella brings to life the spirit of the past, the present, and the future. Initially, Gavin comes across as the hero while Piers is the faulted Catholic blinded by his hateful religion. But what I loved about the story is that Gavin isn't as right as the reader is led to believe in the beginning. He has faults, some which have majorly disrupted his relationship with Piers, not that the other man doesn't have some faults as well. There is so much going on in this story, from the various Arthurian references, the presence of the rescue workers, Gavin and Piers' relationship, and all the other factors that push the events along.

I don't want to say too much, for fear of giving away the wonderful little twists that this story provides, but I will say this was a wonderful tale and it's levels and depth were brilliantly handled.

Lone Star by Josh Lanyon
Stars: 3.5/5
While I enjoyed the characters and the resolution of this novella, overall the story didn't really grab me. In addition, the reindeer ploy was creative but I felt like its presence needed more explanation or attention. It feels like a tool to get the two men together--and it's fine if that's what it is there for, but as the reader, I shouldn't be so keenly aware of its place as a tool. While it's a minor issue, it reappears often enough to make the narrator wonder if he's crazy--and the lack of resolution leaves the reader wondering the same thing.

What I liked about the story is mainly the resolution, which felt right for the situation and the characters, who seem to be as opposite as possible. If it weren't for how this story ended, I probably would have scored this lower, because while the characters entertained me, they didn't feel exciting and new, although they played out their roles with some fresh touches. In addition, the warmth of Wet's family both among each other and to Mitch was a perfect, heart-warming touch to this holiday story.

The Christmas Proposition by KA Mitchell
Stars: 4.5/5
This story resonated a classic holiday feel although it isn't resolved by the leading man Mel learning the meaning of Christmas. Instead he learns the meaning of trust and love and taking chances and relying on others. It sounds rather trite and silly when I say it, but Mitchell does an excellent job bringing everything around.

In some ways the resolution is too easy, but in reality, the struggles Mel sees are not actually there (or no longer require his exacting attention). While this story definitely has a rich man throwing money around, I didn't feel like it suffered from the "rich man solves all problems for poor man" syndrome. A happy story with minimal angst scattered throughout as Mel tries not to be angsty and instead focuses on what he has now, since he has no hope of it in the future.

Finally, I think one of my favorite elements of this story is Bryce asking what childhood trauma caused Mel to be so mistrusting, and Mel says there is none. I just love that someone pointed out (bluntly) that just because we're screwed up now, doesn't mean there was one thing that screwed us up.

Requested this book for review.

The Saturnalia Effect by Heidi Belleau and Violetta Vane

2011-12-18T19:32:00.003-05:00

The Saturnalia Effect by Heidi Belleau and Violetta Vane
Stars: 4/5

Length: 23,000 words
Blurb
Troy Khoury is serving a life sentence in Westgate prison for a robbery gone wrong. He just wants to keep his head down and do his time, but he runs afoul of an old-timer named Franchetti. Franchetti offers Troy a simple choice: kill fellow inmate Daniel Amato by Christmas in exchange for protection, or be tortured and raped to death by Franchetti's heavy, Pliers. Troy's no killer, though, and Daniel is as gentle and calm as can be. But a prison is a small place, and time is running out. Troy must decide how much he's willing to sacrifice before the choice is taken from him.

Overall
The dark halls of prison are no place to celebrate Christmas, especially when you're a pretty boy without much desire to hurt anyone. This is the case for Troy, who is stuck between a rock and a hard place. While "The Saturnalia Effect" is a dark, fairly heavy story, there is still a struggle to keep hope and love in one's life, a theme that weaves throughout and keeps the novella from becoming too bleak, especially for it's holiday theme. In multiple instances, I was emotionally moved and nearly rejoiced at the end. Although the story won't fit everyone's tastes, it's definitely worth checking out.

Strengths
I was on the edge of my seat as the events unfolded, as Troy debates killing Amato, tries to get out of it, and faces the many consequences of his actions. A dark story, it illustrates the worst sort of prison where the strong rule supreme and the weak are either taken under wing or abused. While I cannot vouch for the veracity of the environment, in the world the authors built, it felt real and worked to supply the events that make this story so gripping. The rawness and darkness are what make the tale so enthralling and beautiful in its bleakness.

While I was never in love with any of the characters, I certainly felt empathy for Troy. In addition, there are a wide variety of character types that Troy has to face, and because this takes place in a prison, all the main characters are inmates, and thus not generally "good guys." But in line with the movie Shawshank Redemption, not all bad guys are that bad and not all good guys (aka, the guards) are that good. I felt, considering the space restriction, that a good amount of depth was given to the significant characters in addition to the two leads.

Two other strengths of note: While I had some issue with the ending (see below), I also really liked it because of its resolution, but also because of how it played out from the beginning of the story. In addition, the use of submission and dominance between the two leads was well applied, although some of the roughness may be of concern to sensitive readers. It doesn't cross into a formal BDSM experience, although the authors were definitely flirting with the concepts.

Weaknesses
While I enjoyed the ending, it was a very surprising turn of events, even with hints littered through the story. The ending didn't ruin the novella, but it did catch me off guard.

Additionally, certain elements of the prison and prison life felt a touch cliche and stereotyped, but because it was built so well, I didn't mind the potential fallacy.

Received this book for review.

Interview: Rachel Haimowitz

2011-12-14T07:30:00.000-05:00

More great news: Rachel Haimowitz is stopping by today for an interview!

Rachel is author of many books, including Anchored, Where He Belongs, Master Class, and SUBlime (click the links to see my reviews of said books). Without further ado (though much ado should be made!), here's Rachel:

Thank you for taking the time to stop by my humble blog and answer some of my questions. I know you’ve been touring the blog-o-sphere like mad, so I hope my questions are at least a little bit interesting for you!

Thanks so much for having me! You did indeed ask some totally new questions, so this was fun :)

Can you tell us about Riptide publishing in 14 words?

Haha, that’s . . . oddly specific. But, let’s see . . . A boutique purveyor of some of the finest gay and trans* fiction being written.

What was the high point of this year for you?

This is a surprisingly tough question. On the Riptide side of the equation, the high point was definitely opening day. On the personal side of the equation, it was my dad finally marrying the wonderful woman he’s been seeing. On the author-hat side of the equation, I’d say it was a tie between and going to California for two weeks to start a book with Cat Grant and ending up writing 55,000 words in that time span, and finally releasing Crescendo, which represented the culmination of three years’ worth of work and a story arc almost a quarter of a million words long.

What are you looking forward to in the coming year?

So many things! Life is really, really good right now :) Hmm, I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where Riptide will go in the upcoming year. We’ve got some absolutely amazing authors signed on for our Second Wave, and lots of our wonderful First-Wavers coming back with exciting new material. I’m also looking forward to releasing this Big Kink Book I’m writing with Cat Grant; it’s the only release I have planned so far for next year (though I’m sure there will be others; I just don’t know what they’ll be yet), and right now the story is eating my brain, so it’s actually kind of tough to think of anything else.

Are we going to see more of Devon and Nicky (from SUBlime and Master Class) in the future?

Definitely. I actually have their whole development in my head—the whole “training of Nicky,” so to speak, and I suspect I’ll be writing them in short or novella form over the next couple years: titles that share a common thread but aren’t a contiguous story, and that may not be released in the order in which they would actually have happened in Nicky’s and Devon’s life. For instance, right now I’m about 30 pages into a story that would slot fairly late into Nicky’s training, where he’s being deliberately provocative and it bites him in the ass when, instead of punishing him himself, Devon outsources it to a pro. It’s seriously hardcore and throws Nicky completely off his game, out of his element—genuinely frightens him in the best possible way. I suspect I’ll try to wrap that up when I’ve finished the Big Kink Book.

What can you tell us about the Big Kink Book?

Well, it’s definitely going to be big. Cat and I banged out the first 55,000 words in just over a week in a fit of what I can only call character possession; I have never written so much so quickly that still worked so well for me when I read it again later—and all kudos to my co-writer for that! I think we’re just starting to squeak toward the midway point of Act 2, so this book may actually end up being two books, or at least one very, very long book—like, four or five hundred pages long.

Basically, the BKB is about a filthy rich, super-brilliant guy named Jonathan (though he’s of humbler origins than you might suspect) who gets bored with things and people very easily, and who’s been burned by love enough to have come to the conclusion that all anyone will ever want him for again is his money. He’s super-kinky, a hardcore sexual sadist, and a social do-gooder of fairly epic proportions. Wary of being hurt again, he’s taken to “slumming it,” so to speak—having sexual encounters with guys in dive bars who are unlikely to know who he is. Occasionally he takes on a submissive in a total power exchange contract for some pre-defined period of time, with no expectation other than mutual pleasure.

At the start of the story, we see Jonathan trying to pick up Brandon, a loner construction worker with a difficult past and an independent (and distrustful) streak so fierce that he doesn’t really even understand what intimacy means. He can get sex whenever he wants it, but he never lets it move beyond that. He’s too busy protecting himself and trying to make a better future—trying to find time and money to finish his bachelor’s degree, trying to find a way to buy the business his boss is selling at the end of the year so he can maybe stop using dial-up internet and eating dinner cold from a can over the sink.

Brandon and Jonathan hook up that first night, and Jonathan’s so taken by all of Brandon’s untapped potential (of both intellect and submission; he sees a craving to submit that Brandon wouldn’t recognize or admit to in a million years) that he starts really actively pursuing him. He reveals himself to Brandon, makes him an offer he hopes Brandon can’t refuse: six months of your life with me, letting me uncover the submissive within you, and I’ll give you the money you need to buy the business. Eventually Brandon says yes, but there’s just one problem . . . his submissive side is buried so deeply, it might not actually exist.

Care to tell us about your coming attractions and latest releases?

I’d love to :) This is actually a pretty busy winter for me; I have three new releases in November and December: Master Class at Riptide, Crescendo: Book II of Song of the Fallen at Storm Moon Press, and Break and Enter (co-written with Aleksandr Voinov) at Samhain Publishing on Dec 20. Here are some blurbs and cover art:

Master Class

Performing before a crowd of thousands? No problem. Baring his heart before a crowd of one? Better tie him down first.

Broadway darling Nicky Avery is a shooting star by night, but by day he bounces from one heartless one-night stand to the next. A quick flogging, a rough lay, a new whip-hand to manipulate—yet still he yearns for something he cannot even name.

He finds his first true hint of satisfaction in Devon Turner, a self-possessed film star and expert Dom. Devon knows what he wants the moment he sees it, and what he wants is Nicky Avery. Nicky’s never learned to trust and has a nasty habit of topping from the bottom, but he learns fast that in the bedroom, Devon won’t tolerate his actor’s masks.

Nicky's a broken boy, but Devon knows exactly how to put his new sub back together. With patience, care, and all the punishments his little pain slut can handle, Devon breaks Nicky down one scene at a time, revealing a mind that yearns to trust and a heart that hungers for the ecstasy of true submission at last.

Genre: BDSM, contemporary, gay erotic romance
Length: 16,700 words (57 pages)
ISBN: 978-1-937551-00-1
Price: $3.99

Available at: Riptide Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, All Romance eBooks, 1PlaceForRomance, 1EroticaEbooks, Rainbow Ebooks, Goodreads (epub only), Xinxii

Crescendo

History made them enemies. Chance made them master and slave. Love overcame it all. But love isn’t always enough . . .

Bridging the hatred of centuries did not come easy for Freyrík Farr and Ayden Vaska. As prince of a war-torn human province, Freyrík could ill afford to fall for an enemy. And Ayden, and elven warrior with three-hundred years of bitterness in his heart, wanted no part of love—not elven, and especially not human. Yet they came together despite themselves and despite the will of their peoples, joining heart and mind to fight a race of Dark Beasts threatening the extinction of mankind.

But the Dark Beast threat pales beside the dangers of the human High Court, home of the Aegis Exalted and the harshest test yet of Ayden’s and Freyrík’s fledgling love.

While Ayden is stripped of his magic, Freyrík is forced to choose between his love for elf, Aegis, and brother, all the while seeking the one uncertain path that might save his doomed race. Time is fast running out for mankind, and only by making peace amongst themselves and with their ancient elven enemies can they end the Dark war—and undo the tragedy that’s plagued humans, elves, and Dark Beasts alike for the last three-hundred years.

Genre: Fantasy (high fantasy / epic fantasy), gay erotic romance
Length: 107,000 words (approx. 350 pages)
Price: $9.99
ISBN: 978-1-937058-14-2

Available at: Storm Moon Press, Amazon.com, All Romance Ebooks, Barnes and Noble, 1PlaceForRomance, Smashwords

Break and Enter

Ex-Green Beret Victor “Cyke” Kellermann is on the run for a crime he didn’t—well, okay, did commit, but he didn’t realize it at the time. He’s a good guy, a “white hat” hacker for hire. He’s also more teched out than the Bionic Man, though his ailing ’ware creates as many problems as it solves.

His latest series of break-ins are proving…difficult. Sentinel Tech’s security is cutting-edge, and the cops are hounding his ass. He sees only one reason why his employer hasn’t called off the dogs: someone inside is stealing data for real and setting him up to take the fall.

Paramedic-cum-tech-phreak Bear keeps scooping an increasingly battered Cyke off the sidewalk, and each time, his fascination for the fugitive and his mysterious ’ware grows. So does the attraction that makes him reluctant to turn Cyke in. Every time they touch, barriers fall. Before long, they're both laid bare.

Cyke can handle losing blood, even losing consciousness. What he can’t afford is to lose his heart. Distractions like that get people killed—and if he succeeds in unlocking Sentinel Tech’s ugly secrets, he won’t be the only one in the line of fire.

Genre: Cyberpunk, gay erotic romance, action/adventure
Length: 27,000 words (approx 90 pages)
Price: $3.50
ISBN: 978-1-60928-558-6
Publisher Link: http://store.samhainpublishing.com/break-enter-p-6570.html

Glad to have you visit, Rachel!

Now for the prizes!

First: Check out Riptide's blog tour schedule every day until December 31. Visit the sites where the authors are guest blogging or being interviewed, and leave a comment. It’s as easy as that. Each comment earns you one entry in the grand prize drawing for an iPad. Other prizes are a Nook and a Kindle.

In addition, comment below and get a chance to win a back list book from Rachel, excluding Crescendo and Riptide releases. Be sure to leave contact information (either in the comment or through Disqus). The winner will be announced December 20.

Thanks for stopping by!

Winner announced

2011-12-13T19:07:00.002-05:00

Thanks to everyone who stopped by and left comments on Aleks' interview!

The winner is:

-María- ...

Congrats! I'll be e-mailing you shortly.

Hope everyone stops by tomorrow to see my interview with

Rachel Haimowitz, ~~torturer~~ writer extraordinaire!

Weight of a Gun, an anthology

2011-12-11T20:05:00.001-05:00

Weight of a Gun, an anthology
Stars: 4.5/5

Length: 60,000 words
Blurb
Everyone knows that guns are dangerous; they have long been a subject surrounded by controversy. Combine them with sex and you have a subject that is virtually taboo, but smoking hot. This anthology explores the intersection of these two worlds, and the sensual possibilities they inspire.

In Bounty Hunter, William Hunt is hot on the trail of lover-turned-outlaw James Campbell. But when William finally catches up with James, bringing him to justice is the last thing on his mind. Changing the Guard introduces Tomi Vuorela, working security in a frozen off-world outpost. When Andile Harper intrudes on his seclusion, Tomi must determine if the interloper is a harmless workman or a dangerous terrorist.

Avery Belfour is The Machinist, kidnapped by a rival colony in need of his services. But the dark and deadly Harrow may have other plans for Avery first. In My Rifle Is Human, the more a Gunslinger like Fil sexually satisfies his shapeshifting partners, the Ordinances, the more likely they'll survive as weapons on the battlefield. When late-bloomer Morris becomes Fil's latest partner, however, it will take all Fil's patience and skill to seduce and inspire Morris in time for the next wave of attacks.

Tyler Maxwell from In the Pines, a former New York cop now working a desk job in Alaska, buys a gun as a present and begins to dream about the mysterious and beautiful Flynn. But Flynn is more than a dream, and Tyler must find the truth before he loses his mind. Finally, in Compromised Judgment, Rózsa Ignác is working to uncover a gunrunning operation supplying arms to his enemies. He's certain that Cistalan Konrád is involved, but his attraction to the other man puts himself and the entire investigation in danger.

Overall
I really love the cover of this anthology, which is dark and sexy without being obscene or cheesy. As for the stories, I've judged each of them below individually, but rated them as a whole anthology. Anthologies like this are tough, since they combine the talents of multiple authors and provide mixed content. This collection's works had good writing, plot, and story telling and interesting characters. It is a strong selection and definitely worth a read, especially if you like your sex a touch darker and with a gun. Even if guns aren't your thing, the stories hold their own.

Bounty Hunter by Cornelia Grey
Pretty much exactly what you expect when you hear the words "gun kink." With a Western theme, the thrill of the chase and a Colt, this story hits all the major points. Grey's artful descriptions paint a gritty world interspersed with touches of love and beauty. The tale unfolds in real time with heavy (but balanced) use of flashbacks to explain everything that happened. A strong, well-rounded story that digs deep emotionally and sexually as the truth unfolds for both the reader and the characters. I found the ending fitting intellectually but unsatisfying emotionally.

Changing the Guard by Peter Hansen
From the wild west we jump forward to a sci-fi future where planets have become super computers. In a short space, Hansen builds the world, dispersing information about it throughout the pages. Tomi is all alone on his post and when a stranger arrives saying he's supposed to work on the computer, Tomi doesn't buy it. Of course, a man all alone in the cold doesn't have much chance for companionship, and Andile is willing. What I enjoyed about this story is the plot builds to a point where the reader can't see the way out, and although some elements of the end left me questioning "Why did they..?" nothing threw me out of the story and ruined the ride. Interesting characters and a plot that leaves you with a good feeling.

The Machinist by Gryvon
This story has some interesting characters and we're thrown right into the middle of the action. However, my biggest complaint is that we're given so little in regards to the world, the history, and the characters. This feels like it belongs to a larger story that explains why the main character is in prison, what the creatures are that attack, and who the commander is. For those who like rough and kinky sex, this story satisfies with gun penetration, hair pulling, some spanking, and of course a cocked gun. Least this author pointed out that a slip of the finger could kill the lead man. The writing wasn't my favorite, but it was a strong piece nonetheless, and made me squirm in my seat.

My Rifle Is Human by Sumi
Considering the basis of the story is human weapons that get their powers from having sex, this was a surprisingly tender story with minimal kink and sex. After the heavy-duty stories that came before, it was a welcome change, although some readers may be disappointed by the lack of kink. While this story doesn't delve particularly deeply into the characters, the world, or much plot, there is just enough of each for a pleasant, warm read, which is what the story aims for. The weakest part of the story is the ending, which feels slightly tagged on and slightly rushed, but isn't disruptive enough to ruin the read, and I liked the resolution, which seemed fitting, if not a touch too perfect. Finally, the weakest part is the title, which considering the quality of the story, seems lame.

In the Pines by Lydia Nyx
Wow. This story was dark and sexy and the plot was interesting (and suspenseful) enough that I found myself skimming through the sex to find out what was going to happen. Although not all elements were a surprise, I felt the overall plot was well handled and the big reveal was hinted at enough to substantiate the ending. I was disturbed by the ending, but it was suited to the type of story being told. While most of the characters are pretty flat, this brings all the focus to the main character and everything that has happened and will happen to him. I both hated and really liked this story.

Compromised Judgment by Penny K Moss
I found the writing in this story to be a little stiff, but I'm not certain that it's the author's style or if it is to imitate the stiffness of the character and the characters' language. There is mystery, intrigue, spying, and dangerous attractions all tangling together to form what ended up being an enjoyable story. Although there is some frustration with only seeing a glimpse of what promises to be a larger world, for the most part the knowledge the reader needs is provided within the story. The characters didn't really speak to me, although the sexual tension and eventual release was good.

Received this book for review.
Be sure to check out my other reviews on my blog.

Interview: Aleksandr Voinov

2011-12-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

Today is a very special day, because author Aleksandr Voinov is stopping by to answer a few questions!

Aleks is author of many books, including Counterpunch and Scorpion, as well as co-author of Dark Edge of Honor and The Lion of Kent (click the links to see my reviews of said books). But enough of my blathering, you're here for Aleks....

Thank you for taking the time to stop by my humble blog and answer some of my questions. I know you’ve been touring the blog-o-sphere like mad, so I hope my questions are at least a little bit interesting for you!

Hey, don’t worry about that – I’m right now surrounded by piles of paperwork, so doing an interview is a welcome distraction. Thanks for having me!

What’s your favorite book and/or which book do you wish you’d written?

In our genre, there are a couple books that just made my jaw drop. Okay, I really can’t limit it to just one, so I’m giving you three.

One of them is Erastes’s Junction X, which is a story about a doomed love in the sixties. I had the honor to read it years before it came out, and it’s stuck with me forever. I know some people don’t like unhappy endings, but if you want a really intense book that will never ever leave you, go with that.

Another one is Angels of the Deep by Kirby Crow, which just blew me away. It won an EPPIE award, and deservedly so. Fallen angels, nephilim, a deliciously dark mood that has a dash of Tanish Lee and a dash of Poppy Z. Brite – both pioneers in dark fantasy/horror. I ate that book up liker nobody’s business. Kirby is an amazing, imaginative writer, and this is their darkest book, but I love them dark.

Third favourite is Manna Francis’s The Administration. It’s clever, with deep psychological insight, and the sex is incredibly hot. The main characters are both evenly-matched bastards, but their courting, their games, their interactions, have kept me riveted to the chair. Manna is amazing.

I’d struggle to say “wish I’d written that”, because books are such deeply personal things. While all these three works/authors resonate deeply with me, there’s a lot in there that’s all about them as people. If I’d written those, the books would be different, because I’m a different person. And that would be a shame, because I love them just as they are.

Is there a trait one of your characters has that you wish you had?

Dozens, actually. Compared to my characters, I’m a pretty average kind of person. But most of my characters believe extremely strongly in a value or ideal, like Kendras’s faith in the Scorpions, his mercenary band, and Silvio’s loyalty to his boss, or William’s code of chivalry. I wish I sometimes had that same single-minded faith in something bigger than myself.

In 14 words, can you tell us what makes Riptide Publishing great?

Great team, great authors, great editing, great covers, big ambitions, and no compromises. There, did it in 13. :)

What was the high point of this year for you?

Personal life – getting LASIK in March and achieving perfect eyesight. That was spectacular. I can see things before everybody else does.

Creative life – publishing some good books, getting ideas for more, but really, founding Riptide and seeing it all take off.

What are you looking forward to in the coming year?

In 2012, I want to visit a close friend in Canada, travel to South-East Asia, and write some of the books I have in mind. I also want to have a revamp of my garden (I’m into bonsais, so I want an area in the garden where I can properly keep outdoor bonsais). And growing Riptide, of course.

Care to tell us about your coming attractions?

Absolutely. I’ve started publishing “Dark Soul” with Riptide, which is a series of short stories that are all connected in a big arch that tells really one story. You could call it an episodic novel, but like a TV series, every episode can stand on its own and furthers the plot at the same time. It’s about Stefano Marino, a mafia boss, who falls in lust and then love with the enigmatic Silvio Spadaro, a very damaged boy and mafia hitman. Right now, three parts are done and two more are drafted in my head. I wanted to tell the story as a traditional novel, but I couldn’t get it to work, so this format – a dozen or so connected short stories – was the only way to make it all work.

Here's the blurb for Dark Soul Volume 1:

Stefano Marino is a made man, a happily married west coast mafia boss who travels east to await the death of a family patriarch. All the old hands have gathered—of course sharks will circle when there’s blood in the water—but it’s a new hand that draws Stefano’s eye.

Silvio “the Barracuda” Spadaro is protetto and heir to retired consigliere Gianbattista Falchi, and a made man in his own right. Among his underworld family, being gay is a capital crime, but the hypersexual—and pansexual—young killer has never much cared for rules. The only orders he follows are Battista’s, whether on the killing field or on his knees, eagerly submissive at Battista’s feet.

But Silvio has needs Battista can’t fill, and he’s cast his black-eyed gaze on Stefano. A fake break-in, an even faker attack, and Silvio is exactly where he wants to be: strung up at Stefano’s mercy, driving the older Mafioso toward urges he’s spent his whole life repressing. Stefano resists, but when the Russian mob invades his territory and forces him to seek aid, Gianbattista’s price brings Stefano face to face once more with Silvio—and his darkest desires.

This title is #1 of the Dark Soul series.

Read an excerpt and purchase Dark Soul Volume 1.

Dark Soul Volume 2 is also available at Riptide. Here's the blurb:

Dark Soul series features the stories "Dark Whisper" and "Dark Night."

In "Dark Whisper," Gianbattista may have broken Silvio's heart and sent him off to the States, but he's still just a phone call away. When Silvio returns from a sex shop with a bag full of goodies, Gianbattista can't resist topping his boy one more time, even if they are 4,000 miles apart.

In "Dark Night," the Russian problem comes back to haunt Stefano, and when a dark encounter leaves him bloody and broken, Silvio knows just the right way to ease his pain.

This title is #2 of the Dark Soul series.

Preorder Dark Soul Volume 3 and your order will qualify for an entry in our Free Books for a Year drawing.

You can find me at any of these places on the internet:

E-mail address: vashtan@gmail.com
Website
Blog
Twitter: @vashtan
Facebook
Goodreads Page
Goodreads Group

Thank you for hosting me on your blog!

Glad to have you visit, Aleks!

Now for the prizes!

First: Check out Riptide's blog tour schedule every day until December 31. Visit the sites where the authors are guest blogging or being interviewed, and leave a comment. It’s as easy as that.

Each comment earns you one entry in the grand prize drawing for an IPad. Other prizes are a Nook and a Kindle.

In addition, comment below and get a chance to win a back list book from Aleks, excluding Counterpunch and Riptide releases. Be sure to leave contact information. The winner will be announced December 13.

Thanks for stopping by!

Counterpunch by Aleksandr Voinov

2011-12-04T18:34:00.001-05:00

Counterpunch by Aleksandr Voinov
Stars: 5/5

Length: 55,000 words
Blurb
Fight like a man, or die like a slave.

Brooklyn Marshall used to be a policeman in London, with a wife and a promising future ahead of him. Then he accidentally killed a rioter whose father was a Member of Parliament and had him convicted of murder. To ease the burden on the overcrowded prison system, Brooklyn was sold into slavery rather than incarcerated. Now, he's the "Mean Machine", a boxer on the slave prizefighting circuit, pummeling other slaves for the entertainment of freemen and being rented out for the sexual service of his wealthier fans.

When Nathaniel Bishop purchases Brooklyn's services for a night, it seems like any other assignation. But the pair form an unexpected bond that grows into something more. Brooklyn hesitates to call it "love"—such things do not exist between freemen and slaves—but when Nathaniel reveals that he wants to help get Brooklyn's conviction overturned, he dares to hope. Then, an accident in the ring sends Brooklyn on the run, jeopardizing everything he has worked so hard to achieve and sending him into the most important fight of all—the fight for freedom.

Overall
What I love about Voinov's novels is that they are like a steak dinner, meaty and filling, so you sit back when you're done, pat your stomach, smile, and say, "That was delicious." Of course, I'm so satisfied that I don't even know where to begin in describing what made the meal so excellent. Was it the juicy steak (plot)? The perfect use of spices and seasonings (character)? The glass of wine that complemented the flavors in every bite (the sex)? Or maybe it was the small dessert at the end, the perfect way to top off any meal.

Counterpunch was another gloriously satisfying meal. Taking place in the Belonging-verse already established through Rachel Haimowitz's Where He Belongs and Anchored, it expands the world from beyond United States borders. Despite the pre-existing world, Voinov doesn't take the reader's knowledge for granted and he seamlessly flows world and culture information into the story without dumping it all at once. The same is true for facts about boxing (which I know nothing about).

If you are looking for a meaty plot with a good mix of sex and hard emotions, then pick this up!

Strengths
Although Brooklyn is by no means a perfect character, his weaknesses make him human and any negative traits are balanced by his guilt for his involvement in a young woman's death, and his struggle to maintain his humanity by not losing his identity and "becoming a slave." While he's rough and distant in the beginning, it's easy to empathize with his crappy situation. When Nathaniel is introduced, the reader begins to see another, hidden, side of Brooklyn, broadening his likeability.

Most of the characters have multiple layers, even the minor ones, giving depth beyond the main pair. Characters are "good," but still human and make mistakes, take offense, and get revenge. The dynamic of all the characters together helps bring this dark story to life and throws rays of sunshine in along the way.

The plot, and its different strands, all weave together to form one cohesive plot. Something mentioned once in passing could later be used for an important plot point. The casual and yet dramatic way Voinov unveiled the story left me curious about how everything would unfold and eager to find out while enjoying each scene along the way.

Finally, I am not a boxer, nor do I find much thrill in the sport, although I can see how the brutality and power is attractive to some. That said, my greatest concern with reading this book was its focus on boxing and the sport's importance to the story. However, I found the scenes, both in the ring and just for Brooklyn's training, to be accessible, especially since the reader is given his perspective, personalizing the fight and the underlying emotions.

Weaknesses
For some, the fact that this isn't a traditional romance will make it less enjoyable, but I feel this has a strong enough romance thread that it satisfies all but the hardest classically romance fans. In addition, the ending may or may not satisfy some readers, but this is more a matter of personal preference than a failing of the novel.

The Tea Demon by Cornelia Grey

2011-12-02T18:00:00.001-05:00

The Tea Demon by Cornelia Grey
Stars: 4/5

Length: 52 pages
Blurb
Thief Eric Devon wishes one thing: for people to leave him bloody well alone. And maybe for more whiskey. Until a mysterious stranger offers him a job so dangerous that no one has ever attempted it and survived to tell the tale: recover a priceless object from the Turtle Merchants’ impregnable palace. Intrigued by the man and the challenge, Eric accepts—but the stranger is none other than the legendary airship captain known as the Tea Demon, terror of the Sea of Clouds. Eric must come up with the best plan in history if he wants to complete his job... and survive it too.

Overall
The way this story was written reminds me of The Princess Bride (the movie), as it is a mostly serious tale told in a mostly serious manner that pokes at the cliches because it can. A thief and a ~~pirate~~ airship captain get into a bar brawl with classic choreography, share a kiss, and meet the humorous crew. This story is fun without being too silly, although some may find the tropes a little too much. I thought everything was well handled; a refreshing taste of something different.

Strengths
While this story didn't have laugh out loud humor in it for me, it was still amusing and had me chuckling. Eric is a fun, laid-back guy who is willing to roll with the punches. He's also witty, sharp, and likes seeing Captain Tea flustered (but really, who doesn't?). The character dynamic is light and fun, creating a well-rounded jocular story.

Grey made the steampunk background come to life with beautiful, succinct descriptions of the world and the characters. In a few pages she creates a world, building upon the reader's basic knowledge to expand it into a fantastical environment. Although we are just given the bare bones, it's enough to provide a full-color illustration and support the simple--and amusing--plot.

The characters are plenty of fun, varying from a grumpy dwarf and an underage stick of a girl who fills the role of mechanic to the suave thief and the temper-prone captain. While they may fill standard roles, Grey has fun with the characters, letting the trope show through and plays off of it.

Weaknesses
While everything felt fresh and great, some points were deducted for originality. (It may be unfair, as the author seemed to be striving toward that point exactly, but it sometimes struck as a little too cheesy for me.) Otherwise this was a fun little story.

Received this book for review.

Legend of a Clue About Who Broke the String

2011-11-30T19:41:00.007-05:00

Legend of the Guardians - Kathryn Lasky's popular children's books are the inspiration for this captivating animated feature about Soren, a barn owl kidnapped from his peaceful forest home. His abductors bring him to an orphanage, where he must train to become a soldier. Despite the toil and hardships, Soren makes friends, and together the young birds attempt to escape. Zack Snyder (The Watchmen, 300) directs this epic adventure.

(rent/buy) Visually, this is an incredible movie, from the animation of the owls, the landscape, and the action sequences. In addition, the voice acting is great and the plot line has great potential. However, certain elements felt a little reused from films such as Lord of the Rings and Star Wars. While the plot doesn't follow either of those stories, there are similarities in the good vs evil of LotR, and some of the armor definitely harkens to it. This probably wouldn't have bothered me, but in the end there is a scene that feels like it was pulled directly from SW, but with owls instead of people. The overall story wasn't incredibly new and unique, but despite these negatives, it was still an enjoyable movie that is dark without being too dark for children. This is probably best for a younger audience, as older individuals may see the tropes coming.

Is It Just Me? - Although successful writer Blaine (Nicholas Downs) is kind and witty, he can't find true love because he's intimidated by the overt sexuality of guys such as his roommate, Cameron (Adam Huss). But all that changes when he meets the man of his dreams online -- or does it? Shy Texan Xander (David Loren) seems to be Blaine's ideal man, but when Blaine accidentally posts Cameron's picture in his profile, a battle for Xander's affections ensues.

(rent/buy) Pretty much the gay version of The Truth About Cats and Dogs, this was a cute film that some may be enticed to purchase for the same reasons someone would purchase TTACAD (which I do own, because sometimes you want a chick flick). Anyways, while the story wasn't that original, the acting was pretty good, the dialogue was just the right about of cheese (assuming you can handle cheese), and the ending was cute. While this was worth a view, it didn't really bring anything fresh to the table that The Truth About Cats and Dogs didn't already cover; however, if you're unfamiliar with that movie, you may find it more enjoyable.

The String - After returning from France to his mother's (Claudia Cardinale) home in Tunisia following his father's death, 30-year-old gay architect Malik (Antonin Stahly-Vishwanadan) has trouble readjusting to the cultural mores of his homeland and to his mother's expectation that he'll marry a local woman. But when Malik meets hot handyman Bilal (Salim Kechiouche), he embarks on a tender romance that changes everything.

(rent) This was a very strange film, a mix of reality and some type of mental health issue. While I enjoyed the film overall, not much really happens, and the ending leaves you saying, "Oh" as it sort of meanders to a finish. It felt more like a biography than anything, although I don't think it is one. The most interesting part of the film--the main character's psychological issue, felt secondary and was barely addressed, although it obviously played a large part in the film's purpose. Even so, it was played out and--assumedly--found a solution.

Breaking Dawn, part 1 - At last, Bella (Kristen Stewart) and Edward (Robert Pattinson) are getting married. When Jacob (Taylor Lautner) finds out that Bella wants to spend her honeymoon as a human, he is horrified -- for Edward's passion could accidentally kill her. Bella does indeed survive her honeymoon, but a new complication arises when she discovers that she's pregnant -- and the child is growing at an alarming rate. The pregnancy sets the wolves against Bella and Edward, but Jacob vows to protect his friend.

(???) I can't really give a rating option on this because tastes differ so drastically. Considering I laughed (raucously) through the entire first movie, this one was well done. The werewolves are interesting, all the extra characters bring their humor to the movie, and the birthing scene is pretty well done (and would keep me from wanting to have children, not that I ever wanted to in the first place). Of course, I don't really like whenever Edward and Bella are on screen, but it's bearable and their performances have improved since the first film. Yes, I saw this in theaters, but only for $5 and because we like to get together and laugh at it. I don't think I need to point out all the weaknesses, since they are well known, but this one is pretty good, if you've already gotten this far in the saga anyways.

Clue: The Movie - Director Jonathan Lynn's board game-inspired campfest finds six colorful dinner guests gathered at the mansion of their host, Mr. Boddy -- who turns up dead after his secret is exposed: He was blackmailing all of them. With the killer among them, the guests and Boddy's chatty butler (Tim Curry) must suss out the culprit before the body count rises. Lesley Ann Warren also stars in this hilarious whodunit (filmed with three different endings).

(rent/buy) Whether you rent or purchase this movie will depend on your sense of humor and how cheap you can find it. I'd seen parts of it on TV, but otherwise purchased it unseen for $5. It's from the '80s and stars Tim Curry, which will give you an idea of the humor. It's creative and fun and over the top and cheesy, but it does everything just as it's meant to without pushing the audience too far or ostracizing some viewers. Definitely cute and worth a go.

Visible Friend by KZ Snow

2011-11-27T14:11:00.003-05:00

Visible Friend by KZ Snow
Stars: 4/5

Length: 160 pages
Blurb
Christopher Borgasian has spent the last seven months painstakingly breaking up with a lover he's adored for three years: heroin. Now he's trying to make it on his own--without the drugs, without the family that rejected him for being gay, and, seemingly, without a friend in the world. The night before Chris leaves a sober-living facility to pursue his uncertain future, a stranger named Denny shows up in his room. From then on, Denny returns whenever Chris needs him the most, always vanishing as mysteriously as he appears. Chris desperately needs emotional and physical intimacy, but who is Denny, really? And can Chris believe in him when it also means believing in unconditional love?

Overall
First off, I love this cover. It's artistic and powerful, and while it's not a traditional romance cover, this isn't really a traditional romance, although romance is a central factor. I think I would have purchased this book based on the cover alone.

This story was rating a strong 3.5, but the epilogue and cover bumped it up to a 4. It's a curious story that focuses on the struggle to regain a footing in life after going through rehab for addiction. In addition to facing all the normal struggles of being a gay ex-addict, Chris also has an imaginary friend who is very, very real. And attractive.

While I didn't really sink into this story and get absorbed by it, it was a good strong story that entertains an interesting notion.

Strengths
Interesting story and angle. The story doesn't involve anything spiritual, per se, but there is a certain level of other-worldliness as Denny is a not-so imaginary friend whose physicality is becoming harder and harder to ignore. However, even by the end, by which point the secrets have been revealed, there is still an element of mystery about Denny's origins. This half-explained reason behind Denny's presence is enough to satisfy the reader's curiosity without locking the author into one reality or truth of greater being. A basic, sweet story with a fresh idea.

Characters you feel empathetic for. Even if the characters didn't get under my skin, I still cared about them and was sympathetic to them. Chris, who is struggling to get his life back on track, and Denny, who is struggling to...well, pretty much the same thing. Denny may not have an addiction in his past, but he's coping with reality just as much as Chris is. Both more are selfish and selfless, struggling to do the best thing, even if they're unsure what that is. Honest, good characters.

Weaknesses
The only weaknesses is that the story didn't grab me and hold me captive. It was interesting, well paced, and well told, but it never got into my head or my heart. Parts also fit a little too nicely together, but in some ways this is fitting for the story, considering Denny's entire involvement.

Master Class by Rachel Haimowitz

2011-11-23T18:25:00.002-05:00

Master Class by Rachel Haimowitz
Stars: 5/5

Length: 16,700 words
Blurb
Broadway darling Nicky Avery is a shooting star by night, but by day he bounces from one heartless one-night stand to the next. A quick flogging, a rough lay, a new whip-hand to manipulate—yet still he yearns for something he cannot even name.

He finds his first true hint of satisfaction in Devon Turner, a self-possessed film star and expert Dom. Devon knows what he wants the moment he sees it, and what he wants is Nicky Avery. Nicky’s never learned to trust and has a nasty habit of topping from the bottom, but he learns fast that in the bedroom, Devon won’t tolerate his actor’s masks.

Nicky's a broken boy, but Devon knows exactly how to put his new sub back together. With patience, care, and all the punishments his little pain slut can handle, Devon breaks Nicky down one scene at a time, revealing a mind that yearns to trust and a heart that hungers for the ecstasy of true submission.

Overall
Everything I read with Nicky and Devon makes me want more! Although Nicky plays harder than I'm often comfortable with (even in my fiction), Haimowitz' approach, especially once the reader gets through the initial rough scenes, makes the bond between Devon and Nicky overwhelm any discomfort I have with the beginning.

The first two scenes involve some heavy play, although readers who are familiar with SUBlime will know what they are getting into. For those who haven't read the previous book, I recommend reading Master Class first as it does a better job of showing the beginnings of their relationship, even though it still leaves me wanting more, more, more! Which is good, because then you can enter SUBlime with an appreciation of their standing.

Strengths
With material as sensitive and potentially difficult to handle, the writing becomes a crucial piece of the storytelling (not that it isn't important otherwise) and Haimowitz did an excellent job of exploring Nicky, who needs to feel a strong hand who won't be manipulated, and Devon, who enjoys controlling Nicky, but also who wants to help him. The scenes were handled extraordinarily well, balancing the sexual, the psychological, and the emotional so that by the end the reader is feeling what the characters have gone through. Sensual and breathtaking in some of its rawness.

There is so much potential for stories like this, that toe the line between purely erotic BDSM and story, to suffer for lack of character development. While I do want more of them and want more exploration into their relationship, I felt the amount the reader delves into Nicky and Devon's head, especially Devon's, helps get a grasp on what is happening with the story and the full depth and meaning of what is taking place. It's not just torture or sexual gratification, in fact, it's very little of either as Devon peels back Nicky's layers and reveals the true man inside.

Weaknesses
First a weakness that isn't a weakness: I want more. The ending is satisfying and gives closure, but I still want more, like a spoiled child! The nice thing is I can go back and re-read SUBlime for more Nicky and Devon adventures.

The only real weakness of this novel is that is is NOT for everyone. There is some what is described as "rape fantasy" (although it's not nearly as cruel or rape-ish as other books that have had similar warnings). I wouldn't consider it a rape fantasy, but I think the warning is good, as the first scenes involve force and humiliation and could trigger. Humiliation is a squick for me, but it's not bad enough to really push the off button for me (just to give an idea of it's level of disturbance).

Breaking Faith by M. King

2011-11-19T22:03:00.001-05:00

Breaking Faith by M. King
Stars: 5/5

Length: 250 pages
Blurb
Brett Derwent thinks he has life all planned out. With the freedom of college life just months away, Brett’s eagerly awaiting some fun and independence… until he meets Tommy Hawks. Over the course of one northern Montana summer, an intense romance blooms between the young men, but Tommy has a painful secret—one that even first love can’t mitigate. Continually brutalized by his violent father, Tommy is pushed to the edge, torn between the desire to protect his mother and four siblings, and his fear of losing the love he never expected to find.

When the unthinkable happens and Tommy’s father is found dead, Brett is afraid to learn the truth. Appalled to think that his lover may be responsible, Brett must face impossible questions: how much of his life—of his youth—is he willing to sacrifice for Tommy, and will having faith in him be enough?

Overall
A powerful, moving story that follows two young men as they face cruel realities and the struggles of love and trust. While this tale starts off innocently as two first meet and begin to explore one another, it expands into something more, as a simple young romance is tested by external and internal forces. I enjoyed both parts of the ride, from the young love blooming to the rocky ride that follows.

A well-written and constructed piece filled with enjoyable, human (and flawed) characters and compelling emotional turmoil, this is a story that doesn't let you know until the very end if its going to have a happy ending.

Strengths
These flawed characters face difficult circumstances and while some are due to their own choices--or perhaps all are due to their own choices--they hardly complain about the situation, just work to get out of it. The lengths they go to to protect one another is touching, even if it means wanting to smack them on the head.

The struggles these characters endure and survive are more than I can imagine, and hopefully will never have to experience. But the despair and desperate hope they feel is something that most people can relate to. Because so much of this novel is a struggle against the inevitable, Brett's determination is beautiful and inspiring, a thread of silk for Tommy to hold onto when he's had to fend for himself for most his life. What are you willing to risk for love? It's a question Brett faces and answers, with surprising results. Although his attempts are not always victorious, his strength and spirit made me smile, even while I felt the same aches he did as it happened.

The emotional pull of this novel is perhaps what made me enjoy it the most as the combination of characters, situation and writing sucked me into the story and held me there, anxiously reading what happens next.

Weaknesses
I didn't really feel this book had any weaknesses, although there are two points that I would caution to readers who are one, looking for a bright, cheery book or two, hate anything that could possibly resemble dramatic life choices based on a lover you haven't known nearly long enough.

This story is not a completely happy one. There is a lot of trouble and hard emotions (I wouldn't say angst, though). For much of the later half of the book the reader is fighting (along with the characters) for their relationship but it's not clear if they will survive. It makes for a great read, but not if you're looking for a pick-me-up! I felt the resolution was pretty clear, but with everything that happened in the novel, there is always some flexibility with how it's interpreted.

Also, while the story doesn't have Insta-Love, it does have teen love that goes to some pretty far extremes (which I felt were reasonable, considering they are teens and it is pointed out within the story context). Just a warning, if this is a problem for the reader.

Requested this book for review.

Clear Water by Amy Lane

2011-11-13T19:34:00.005-05:00

Clear Water by Amy Lane
Stars: 4/5

Length: 230 pages
Blurb
Meet Patrick Cleary: party boy, loser, and spaz. Patrick's been trying desperately to transform himself, and the results have been so spectacular, they've almost killed him. Meet Wes "Whiskey" Keenan: he's a field biologist wondering if it's time to settle down. When the worst day of Patrick's life ends with Whiskey saving it, Patrick and Whiskey find themselves sharing company and an impossibly small berth on the world's tackiest houseboat.

Patrick needs to get his life together-and Whiskey wants to help-but Patrick is not entirely convinced it's doable. He's pretty sure he's a freak of nature. But Whiskey, who works with real freaks of nature, thinks all Patrick needs is a little help to see the absolute beauty inside his spastic self, and Whiskey is all about volunteering. Between anomalous frogs, a homicidal ex-boyfriend, and Patrick's own hangups, Whiskey's going to need all of his patience and Patrick's going to need to find the best of himself before these two men ever see clear water.

Overall
It took me two reads to really appreciate this book. My first read I was in love with the beginning and mediocre on the ending, which felt seperate from the rest of the novel, initially. However, on my second read through, while the end is still very different from the beginning, they felt more like they belonged together and the story naturally flowed from one into the other.

But to me this story isn't really about the plot, it's about the characters. They take the stage and steal the spotlight just by being themselves and going through their everyday--and not so everyday--actions. The good guys may not be perfect, but they are still obviously the good guys and work hard to do what is right.

Definitely worth a read, especially if you want something happy and hopeful.

Strengths
The characters really captured me. Patrick, who has ADHD and is struggling to get his life together, is flexi-bendy and uses yoga when he can't take his meds. He's been told he's an idiot and a failure for pretty much his entire life and has a chronic case of the "I'm sorry"s, which is heart-breaking sometimes. Other times it just makes you want to wrap him in your arms and take him home with you. But it's okay, that's what Whiskey is there for.

Whiskey is a down-to-earth scientist who has spent the last ten years trying to find home without knowing what he was looking for. He's patient and more patient and good at thinking on his feet but not rushing his thoughts either. The perfect balance to Patrick, whose brain to mouth connection is short, even on the meds.

They are both rounded out by Fly Bait, who is caustic, rough and has a dry sense of humor. In some ways she's a "classic dyke" (in a completely unoffensive way), but she's definitely Whiskey's best friend. She's fun, but not silly, and is a good literary tool for helping get the boys to take their respective sticks out of their asses.

There are a few other side characters that add to the mix, but I'll refrain, lest I give something away.

Lane captured Patrick's ADHD perfectly and had some great examples for Patrick to use to describe it, which felt almost educational for those not familiar with the disorder. I also like the approach she took with comparing Patrick's ADHD to the anomolies in the frogs without going too much into the correlation of pesticides and ADHD in humans. Educational without preaching and everything was balanced out by Whiskey, who sees nothing wrong with taking meds if you need them (since some of the greatest minds need them).

The dynamic between the two main characters as Patrick acts like a spaz and Whiskey patiently helps him handle it is what made this book for me, and if you enjoy good character dynamic/interaction, I think you'll enjoy it just as much.

Weaknesses
The end, encompassing both the major climactic action and the falling action, didn't sit right with me initially. The first felt extraordinary, considering the rest of the story, and the latter felt like it worked too hard to wrap everything up perfectly. But I experienced everything differently in my second read. While the climax still felt a little extraordinary after all the frog counting, it definitely played an important role in show Patrick who he was and how he was better than he thought. The falling action, while perhaps seeming a little too perfect, does work for this book and is fitting for the genre. Also, it's not so over the top HEA that it causes cavities and tummy aches.

Requested this book for review.

City Falcon by Feliz Faber

2011-11-06T18:13:00.001-05:00

City Falcon by Feliz Faber
Stars: 4/5

Length: 240 pages
Blurb
New York, 1994

What on earth is a live falcon doing in the middle of JFK airport? The answer to this question brings PAPD officer Mark Bowman face to face with falconer Hunter Devereaux, right in the middle of a fascinating field experiment using falcons to keep runways free of nuisance birds. The falcons are intriguing, but it’s arrogant, out-and-proud Hunter himself who really rubs Mark the right kind of wrong. Too bad Mark can’t act on the attraction: he’s deeply in the closet, and since he wants to keep his job, that’s where he's determined to stay.

However, every time their paths cross, Hunter gets a little deeper under Mark’s skin, until Mark can’t deny his feelings any longer. Giving in to his desire makes Mark happier than he can remember being, but Hunter isn't willing to hide their relationship forever. If they’re going to make a life together work, something has to give. Someday soon Mark will have to choose, or life will make the choice for him before he’s ready for it.

Overall
I picked up this book because falcons, falconry, and falconers all interest me. (I have plans for Desert Falcon, but was hesitant because it's a Bittersweet Dream.) In that regard, I was not disappointed in the least. From my knowledge, Faber did an excellent job correctly portraying the art of falconry (although I'd been told the oils from the hand can damage the oils on a falcon's feathers, so contact shouldn't be made, but that may be depending on who you talk to). I liked the falconry, the characters, and the general environment that Faber created. (Also, 1994...that's going to be a historical novel soon!)

Even though I liked this book, it won't be for everyone. It's not fast moving, and while there are moments of intense emotions, it's not a wild ride in that regard either. There are some wonderful paralleled construction between the falconry project and sexuality, and the men act like classic 1990s' men, which was fitting (and not over the top). Mark is, overall, a good guy, but he has some issues, specifically with having to deal with his sexuality in that time in America, which leads him to blow up over minor things. His struggle with his sexuality in that time period (and his unwillingness to come out) is the focus of the story, and I think it was handled well with the climax, the confrontation, and the falling action.

Strengths
While I didn't realize it until after I'd finished, there is some well-worked parallel story telling between the acceptance of falconry at the airport to handle the gull problem, and the acceptance of homosexuality by society. It's not a perfect match, but there is definitely the struggle to get something "strange" accepted by people who "don't really understand" the point.

I liked the characters because they all felt very real to me. No one was perfect, but they weren't bad people either. Even the antagonists of the story were just ignorant or close-minded, not really evil or vindictive. Most of the mess is made by Mark because of his--substantiated--fear of what would happen if he would come out, although his partner Sean is also a source of conflict as the main force of negativity toward gays in the story, which reinforces Mark's need to keep hidden and some of his behaviors toward Hunter.

The falconry was well explained, and handled in such a way that it didn't dump information and overwhelm/bore the reader, nor did it have an expectation of knowledge, aside from minor words that the reader can easily get from context. Though, I must admit I do have an interest in falconry, so I may have a slight bias.

Weaknesses
This is not a high-intensity book, it's not action packed or overly emotional. Although the characters, their interaction, and their emotions are important, they aren't overwhelming either. This wasn't a story that grabbed me and held on. However, if you're looking for a low-key, mellow read that is rather educational and feels real, then this may be a good pick.

One other minor niggle is that the end seems to happen extremely quickly and then stop. While I can understand the author's choice not to continue any further, I felt something less abrupt would have been appreciated.

Requested this book for review.

The Match Before Christmas by Eden Winters

2011-10-30T21:30:00.002-04:00

The Match Before Christmas by Eden Winters
Stars: 4/5

Length:
Blurb
Candlelight, mistletoe, gaily wrapped packages beneath a trimmed tree, and someone to share it with. That's all Barry Richards wants for Christmas. Desperate for a traditional holiday, he takes drastic measures. Creating a profile on "GetaDate.com," he hopes to find the perfect man in a matter of weeks. One date after another goes sour, while all around him friends are falling in love, and Barry starts to lose faith. The first snow falls and the world is filled with seasonal cheer, all except for Barry, for whom time is running out. Facing the prospect of a lonely holiday, he tries just once more to make The Match Before Christmas.

Overall
This was a cute little Christmas story that will ring especially true to all the single people reading it. The narrator is funny and a little self-pitying (but who isn't?) as he struggles through date after horrendous date on an online dating service. The men he meets are outrageous but ring true, and his reaction (normally running away as fast as he can) is enough to put a smile on your face. I think my favorite "date" was with "John," who is oddly the second best thing to come out of the dating service.

Definitely going to re-read this right before the holidays, even if the main character does seem to get luckier than me!

A Note About November

2011-10-28T17:30:00.001-04:00

November is Nanowrimo (that's National Novel Writing Month...you can see why everyone just calls is Nano), and I'll be participating again this year (I won in 2009 and used last year's Nano to do editing on 2009's project). The goal of Nano is to write 50,000 words in the month of November, which is 1,667 words a day, which for some authors is no problem, but for me is kind of a big deal. (We'll blame poor time management and the inability to stay focused...on pretty much anything.)

This means two things:

1. My time is going to become rather regimented. Less time online and more time writing (and running, which helps me clear my head). It also means less time reading (except for Counterpunch, which comes out Nov. 4). Less time reading means fewer reviews being posted. You see where I'm going with this? I still may read some, and may post some movie reviews, but November may be rather sparse.

2. Aside from Twitter and tumblr, I'm probably going to become very inactive online. I think this is a good thing, as I waste enough time online as is and maybe clearing my plate of a few things can help me do what's important...AKA, writing and reading. I'm spending so much of my free time browsing the internet (and I realize I'm using it as a distraction) that I'm squeezing in time to read and write reviews. Since Nano means I have to get writing done, I'm going to have to cut off my distractions. The good news? After November, I should be more prolific with my reading and reviewing if I'm wasting less of my time online.

So that's what to expect in the month to come. I hope you'll be patient with me!

404: Review Not Found

2011-10-26T20:39:00.004-04:00

I bet you were expecting a review. So was I!

Earlier this month, I had plans of grandeur, where I posted a review every Sunday and Wednesday, and then posted a review or other content on

Friday. It seemed like a good idea.

It wasn't.

For the last few weeks I've been doing just that, trying to post three times a week, often with reviews. I felt stressed abou

t it, and not really too inspired, but I was getting it done. Woo! I was psyched.

And then I started reading Moonlight, Tiger and Smoke, and I felt...uninspired. so halfway through I set it down and picked up City Falcon. And because it had a generally easier story to get into, I finished it. But I realized that I was dissatisfied, and it wasn't necessarily with the book. Because I felt obligated to read, I wasn't enjoying. I wasn't letting the book offer itself to me, I was demanding it show me its best. Doing this wasn't putting me in the right frame of mind for reading, nor for reviewing. I feel like some of my recent reviews weren't very good and I apologize. I'm not saying they are gonna be awesome to come, but hopefully just working at my own pace will help me settle down.

Also, I planned to post this on Friday, but I'm here now...

A Note About November

November is Nanowrimo (that's National Novel Writing Month...you can see why everyone just calls is Nano), and I'll be participating again this year (I won in 2009 and used last year's Nano to do editing on 2009's project). The goal of Nano is to write 50,000 words in the month of November, which is 1,667 words a day, which for some authors is no problem, but for me is kind of a big deal. (We'll blame poor time management and the inability to stay focused...on pretty much anything.)

This means two things:

1. My time is going to become rather regimented. Less time online and more time writing (and running, which helps me clear my head). It also means less time reading (except for Counterpunch, which comes out Nov. 4). Less time reading means fewer reviews being posted. You see where I'm going with this? I still may read some, and may post some movie reviews, but November may be rather sparse.

2. Aside from Twitter and tumblr, I'm probably going to become very inactive online. I think this is a good thing, as I waste enough time online as is and maybe clearing my plate of a few things can help me do what's important...AKA, writing and reading. I'm spending so much of my free time browsing the internet (and I realize I'm using it as a distraction) that I'm squeezing in time to read and write reviews. Since Nano means I have to get writing done, I'm going to have to cut off my distractions. The good news? After November, I should be more prolific with my reading and reviewing if I'm wasting less of my time online.

So that's what to expect in the month to come. I hope you'll be patient with me!

Here's a sexy picture to make up for it.

See anything good lately?

2011-10-23T19:29:00.007-04:00

29th & Gay - As he approaches the dreaded age of 30, James Sanchez (James Vasquez) -- an out-of-work actor with thinning hair, a growing stack of bills and, worst of all, no boyfriend -- is beginning to believe that life has passed him by. This engaging indie comedy chronicles a year in the life of the perpetual odd-man-out as he tries to find his niche with help from his two best friends, Roxy (Nicole Marcks) and Brandon (David McBean).

(rent) I originally had this as meh/rent, but it might be worth a watch. It's very much a coming-of-age film for the soon-to-be-30 set (Oh, shit, that's me!). Parts of it hit too close to home for me, because I'm in similar shoes, but other parts seemed a little silly/stupid, and it suffered for the acting, which was not riveting. Definitely worth a watch if you're in that age and struggling with what you're getting out of life and are patient with small-production movies :)

Under One Roof - Daniel Chang is a closeted Chinese-American boy living in San Francisco with his traditional mother. Eager for a grandchild, Mrs. Chang desperately wants to see Daniel married and devotes much of her time to finding a suitable Chinese girl for him. But when she recruits a new tenant, Robert, for the downstairs flat, Daniel finds himself falling for the hot Southern boy -- not the kind of match his mother was hoping for!

(rent) This was a cute, OK movie that didn't repulse me, but didn't really snag me either. Some scenes are strong, but they are equally balanced out by awkward scenes. There is some humor, romance and angst, but nothing really grabbed my emotions and took me with it, nor was I particularly attached to any of the characters. It was very much a classic M/M romance for the screen.

Apart From Hugh - A gay couple drives straight into relationship road bumps in this bittersweet love story. Set in a small town in the American northwest, the tale follows Hugh (Steve Arnold) as he eagerly plans a party for his one-year anniversary with Collin (David Merwin), who's simultaneously reevaluating whether he's really ready for a committed relationship. Jennifer Reed also stars.

(unfinished) I couldn't finish this story. It may have been good by the end, but a glance at some of the reviews on Netflix tells me this probably isn't so. Although made in 1994, it's produced like an old flick in black and white with shoddy sound, none of which bothered me. The acting wasn't too bad, although the script was and the story didn't seem to be going anywhere. When the lead female started tearing up grass to feed cows, I gave up. If you're into French-esque, movies that are more poetry than plot, this might be good for you, but definitely rent it first.

X-Men: First Class - In this exciting prequel to the X-Men series, Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Erik Lehnsherr (Michael Fassbender) -- the future Professor X and Magneto -- are best friends dedicated to harnessing their powers and promoting the education of fellow mutants during the turbulent 1960s. The duo works together to stop a powerful adversary that threatens mankind, but their ideological differences drive them apart and turn them into ferocious enemies.

(buy) While this should have perhaps been called "A Mutant Affair," it was a well-done (if not slightly un-canon) interpretation of Charles and Erik's coming together and inevitable break up. As long as you don't look too far outside the movie (not even to the other movies in the "series"), then you won't see anything too terribly wrong. If you're a hardcore X-Men fan...well, I'd still see it, but pretend it's not an X-Men movie. Before seeing it, I'd heard lots about the homoerotic subtext, but watching it, I didn't really see it...until Charles breaks up with Erik for ~~a woman~~ his moral decisions. Actually, he did mostly break up with Erik about moral stuff, because the amount of romance between Charles and Moira was very limited. I only joke about this film so much because it is well done and very enjoyable, as long as you don't care about canon storyline. The actors were brilliant and the plot was well done (for what it's worth). And then Magneto puts on his silly outfit and I giggled the rest of the movie.

BearCity - As he comes to grips with his undeniable attraction to big, hairy men and adjusts to his new roomies, cute cub Tyler (Joe Conti) struggles to figure out his place within the tight-knit bear community, gain acceptance from his old friends and find fuzzy love. Full of hot hookups and hilarious mishaps, this quirky romantic comedy co-stars Gerald McCullouch as Roger, the stud who catches Tyler's eye.

(rent/buy) I'm not really into bears or bear culture (whatever that means), so a movie all about bears isn't really up my alley. However, this was an adorable, fun movie that was totally worth watching. While it's not something I'd probably rewatch (even though I really enjoyed it by the end), I could see other people really enjoying it. It had a pretty good plot, three sets of men who are in different places in their relationships (or lack there of). Conti and McCullouch had a nice dynamic, and there are limited sex scenes, although there are many shirtless bears walking around during the movie. Definitely worth a watch.

Stars in My Eyes

2011-10-21T17:27:00.001-04:00

One day, while browsing through books I'd read and pondering a re-read, I noticed something a little...off. While my 4 and 5 star reads were pretty consistent, I noticed 3 stars tended to run the gamut from books that were "Ok" to books that had positives but I'd never read again. Obviously these reviews have taken place over a stretch of time and my review approach has changed. I'd like to think I'm more consistent with my reviews now than I was, but to truly be consistent, I'm going to write up a general guideline for when a book falls into a star category. In addition to be listed here, it will be saved on a sidebar.

Star rating system as of November 2011:

1 star - A work with minimal or no positive qualities, a 1-star rating indicates that I had to struggle hard to finish it and most likely skimmed large portions. Would probably be considered "did not finish" if I ever didn't finish books!

2 stars - Works earn 2 stars when they have strong points, but those are outweighed by the weaknesses. May involve skimming sections, lack of interest in characters/plot, or bad writing. Would not re-read.

3 stars - A work with good points and bad points that didn't particularly impress me, but was overall enjoyable. While not high on my list, would potentially re-read.

4 stars - Strong works with a one or two flaws normally earns 4 stars. The flaws normally fall into the "It didn't grab me" category, although pacing, singular unbelievable events, or other weaknesses will bump it down as well.

5 stars - Perfect or practically perfect, a work with this star rating not only earns strong marks in writing, plot, and characters, it also is emotionally moving. Minor weaknesses due to preference, minor pet peeves, or other inconsequentials are permitted if few in number.

I think the main differences will appear in the 2 and 3 star ratings. I always tended to not give out many scores below 3 stars, but I think that's unfair to the higher end 3 stars. Hopefully the review itself will clarify the rating. Also, hopefully this will allow me to be more consistent with my star usage!

Crying for the Moon by Sarah Madison

2011-10-19T17:57:00.001-04:00

Crying for the Moon by Sarah Madison
Stars: 5/5

Length: 210 pages
Blurb
Vampire Alexei Novik may have the teeth and the coffin, but he’s given up the lifestyle for an old fixer-upper in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Weary of his past, Alex plans to keep to himself, but it seems his sexy, new neighbor, Tate, can’t take the hint—a good thing, since it turns out he’s handy for all kinds of things around the house. Tate even gets along with Alex’s werewolf friends, though one of them pointedly reminds Alex that their friendship is a bad idea.

If a platonic relationship is a bad idea, the growing attraction between Tate and Alex is a disaster waiting to happen. Loving Tate will draw him into Alex’s dangerous world, and Alex is torn between having the relationship he’s always craved and keeping Tate safe. Tate won’t take no for an answer, however, and seems to handle everything Alex can throw at him without blinking. Just when he thinks things might turn out all right after all, Alex’s past catches up with him—forcing him to make a terrible choice.

Overall
This novel utilizes all the qualities that make vampire novels great--but also has fun with it. The characters are hilarious, caring, and loyal; the sex is hot; and the plot is well fleshed out. Even though most of the action doesn't happen until the last 20%, the story never drags as each chapter develops characters and cultural history. For those who are familiar with vampire and werewolf lore, you'll appreciate the nods of recognition to some of the standards, while also finding a few new twists.

Strengths
Set in the modern world, there is very little development that needs to be done on that end, but Madison took vampire and werewolf lore and tweaked it just enough to make it her own. The info wasn't dumped on the reader all at once, except for a single instance and that wasn't even dumped, but worked into dialogue. The nuances in the cultures and the world creation felt believable and well done, but most of all, it took something that has been rehashed and made it feel fresh.

This story contains a very limited cast (no more than 10 people total), but the main six are constantly on screen and moving around. The skill with which the characters are handled is excellent, and their unique personalities all shine through. Each is an individual that adds a different dynamic to what's happening in the story, sometimes to Alex's chagrin. Fun, oddly human, characters.

While initially there doesn't seem to be much plot, everything is building toward the final climatic scene with purpose. The hints and allusions are invoked to lure the reader into wanting to know more, without being obtuse and ignoring facts or questions that the characters in the story would know or ask. In addition, while main climax is slowly being built, other tiny events happen, some of which are dramatic (an attack) and some of which are just people living in close quarters and newly falling in love. The varied events and happenings create a well-paced piece.

Weaknesses
If I were pinpoint one weakness, it's definitely that the end happens quickly and a few points are brought up without being resolved, possibly for future sequels, or possibly because life doesn't always give us all the answers. However, I didn't feel shorted by the end or the information given either, I just want to know More! More! More!, which I count as a good thing, even though I put it under weakness.

Requested this book for review.

Bullied by Jeff Erno

2011-10-16T18:09:00.001-04:00

Bullied by Jeff Erno
Stars: 5/5

Length: 158 pages
Blurb
Every day, all over the country, teenagers struggle with the realities of bullying. Tormented, ridiculed, and beaten—simply for being who they are—these teens face alienation, humiliation, and even the explicit assertion that they have somehow brought this upon themselves, that they should just blend in. Bullied is a series of short stories exploring the world of these teens from several different viewpoints: the victim, the bully, the gay bystander, the straight friend, the concerned parent.

Closeted Bryan wonders why Christian Michaelson doesn't just try to blend in if he hates being bullied so much. Star athlete David isn't a homophobe—after all, he's not afraid of anything. Jonathan, a Christian fundamentalist, must weigh the Bible against peer pressure and what he knows is right when he discovers his childhood friend is gay. Bully victim Chase Devereaux finds an unexpected ally in a brave fellow student. A single mom struggles to accept the reality that her only son is gay. Two tough gay teens are forced to confront their own inner demons when tragedy befalls a classmate they failed to help. And overweight Kirby finds the strength of character to make a friend, which leads to a lifestyle change and a chance at love. Each character grows as an individual as he or she comes to terms with what it means to be a gay teenager in America.

Overall
Let me start of with a warning: This book is written with a purpose, an agenda, and a message to get across. If you didn't know about all that from the name of the book or the blurb, then the Letter from the White House and the Introduction would give it away. If you somehow started reading without getting this point, then the amount of anti-bullying might surprise you, but really you have no one to blame but yourself.

Aside from the obvious agenda and one story, which seemed weaker than the others, I have nothing but praise for this book. It's heartfelt, saddening, and hopeful. It made me want to make a difference in the world, or at least my part of it. It made me want to support my friends instead of teasing and mocking, which comes so easily. True, its messages read like an after-school special (but with better characters, plot, dialogue, and acting), but it's not trying to hide that. I'd recommend this to most everyone, but especially saps. Saps will love this. I should know.

Blending In
A sweet story about a closeted gay student who watches horrible bullying happen to a flamboyant gay student and learns how important it is to stand up against bullying. Short, meaningful, and beautifully done. It was touching.

Chuckie
This story feels unique because it takes the point of view of the bully and not the victim. It gives a good look into the head of the bully and what drives him, and also the potential for change. While the transformation happened quickly (obviously working within a limited space), it was well handled and believable.

Saved
While this story was heavily religious, I liked that it didn't use religious beliefs as the catalyst for the bullying. Instead, people were the cause, whether they came from an uber religious background or not. Another touching story of overcoming bigoted beliefs and of standing up for a person--and for yourself.

Different
While all stories of bullying are sad, this one was truly heartbreaking in its brutal honesty. It touches upon herd/peer dynamics and the fear of being "associated" with the outsider, no matter what that outsider is. The hardest part is almost everyone will know there was a time when they didn't stand up for someone who needed it.

Invisible
A touching story of a kid who is coping with being bullied--until it escalates to public humiliation. As he tries to "man up" and "tough it out," he really just wants to be left alone and stay invisible. To live his life. The character is so real--so like any other kid--that it makes his story all the more moving. The show of his strength and the necessity of an outside force to help him, is extremely telling of everyone.

Shame
Taken from the perspective of a mother, I didn't find this story as emotionally moving, but older readers--and readers with children--may be able to better relate. It was well done, even if you want to smack the mother around (which is the point).

Kirby
Poor Kirby. Fat and gay. But this story is nice because it really makes something other than sexuality the central focus of the bullying, although it's still important. Obviously obesity (which is a childhood epidemic now, according to experts) is a major issue, both for health and psychological reasons. While I encourage people to get fit, I think this story points out the important differences in getting fit because it's expected of you and getting fit because you want to. Being pressured into getting skinny isn't going to work, in most cases. It has to be something the person really wants.

Requested this book for review.

From Riptide Publishing

2011-10-15T18:11:00.000-04:00

From Riptide Publishing

Meet Riptide’s First Wave Treasure Hunt

$50 All Romance Ebooks gift certificate - Join us for an interesting harvesting of pearls (of wisdom). Get to know our First Wave Authors and their work.

The first is Meet Our First Wave. You'll be digging up pearls of wisdom, answers to questions about our authors, their work as well as tidbits about our staff.

This email address is for registrations, ONLY. If you have questions, please send them to:chris@riptidepublishing.com

The hunt will begin on October 24th and will end on October 30 at midnight.

On the morning of October 24, before 9 am Eastern Time, all registrants will receive their Treasure Map, instructions, and a list of questions to be answered. All questions must be answered to qualify to win.

The winner will be chosen from all the correct entries, and their name will be announced on November 1 in our newsletter, on our Party Page, on Goodreads, Twitter and Facebook, as well being notified by email. The winner will be selected from all the correct entries.

Open to everyone, but you must register to play.

The winner will get a $50 All Romance Ebooks gift certificate.

By Any Other Name by Tia Fielding

2011-10-13T07:18:00.002-04:00

By Any Other Name by Tia Fielding
Stars: 3.5/5

Length: 200 pages
Blurb
Dru and Thom have been together for three years, and despite Thom’s occasional bouts of insecurity and Dru’s fear of rejection, their relationship is rock solid. Then Dru’s long-lost friend, Skye, suddenly reappears, shocking them both. Skye suffered years of inconceivable abuse before escaping it, and while he’s back on track, he has nowhere else to go as he begins to rebuild his life.

Dru, Thom, and Skye each want to belong somewhere, to belong with someone—or someones—with no fear of being hurt, set aside, or left behind. It’s a challenge with daunting odds, especially for Skye, who’s never loved before. He’s determined not to come between his two friends who so clearly belong together, and it will be up to Dru and Thom to conquer their fears and convince Skye to stay.

Overall
Although a well-done threesome is something I love to read, I'm always hesitant to read one, because well-done threesomes happen so rarely. However, I liked the dynamic the blurb hinted at, so I gave it a chance. After reading the first few chapters, I wasn't incredibly taken with the writing. It was okay, but a little stiff overall and the flow was sometimes unnatural. However, the story and the characters kept me going and as the three men struggle to find balance in their lives, I wanted to know how everything ended up--even if the genre gave me a good idea of how it would be.

In a strange way, even though I wasn't in love with this novel, I really enjoyed it. It was a tad slow moving in order to provide adequate character development, the writing was so-so, but the characters are all highly enjoyable, including minor/side characters. I'd definitely recommend this to people who like reading about threesomes. There are a lot of psychological and emotional issues mentioned in this book, and they all play a pivotal role, however, because there is so much and three characters (instead of two), the psychological elements don't get as much development as I like. They still are important, and are well utilized, but the story doesn't focus too heavily on the psychological issues.

Strengths
The way the author handled/created the threesome worked wonderfully. Obviously this is something that is easy to screw up, but it was handled in a reasonable way that felt natural for the people involved. I also appreciated that the author recognized the challenges having a threesome relationship could potentially cause in society, but didn't let that distract from the main focus of the story.

The characters are all sweet and wonderful, despite their weaknesses and failings. Sometimes they seem to get along too well (because we all know how often arguments happen in a two-person couple), but it's easily forgiven since so many other obstacles stand in their way. Despite some of the grim topics, this is a happy book with overall happy characters who want to help one another, not hurt one another, and find their happiness.

There is an adorable epilogue that I wasn't expecting and, honestly, it comes out of the blue a little, but it's cute, funny and a nice way to end the book (and almost pushed the score to 4).

Weaknesses
The writing was the weakest part of the novel, and even that wasn't unbearable, just slightly stiff. However, that, in combination with an overall placid plot, left me mostly uninvolved with the story. It was enjoyable but not captivating, and sadly kept the story from earning a higher score.

There was a slight jump in Skye's capability to perform sexually, which, while it made for a pretty hot scene, didn't feel realistic.

Requested this book for review.

Other Side of Night: Bastian and Riley by SL Armstrong and K Piet

2011-10-10T19:37:00.004-04:00

Other Side of Night: Bastian and Riley by SL Armstrong and K Piet
Stars: 3.5/5

Length: 47,000 words
Blurb
Vampires walk among us. For centuries, they have adapted, learning to pass undetected in our world. They no longer fear the day, only the sting of direct sunlight. They are students, bankers, lawyers, and even actors. But when the sun goes down, they are all united by their eternal thirst. We do not see them from our safe and comfortable side of the night. But sometimes, one of us is drawn away from the light and we cross into their world. Into the other side of night.

Sebastian Rossi's second year at the University of Tennessee began much differently than his first. He rushes to and from his classes, covered head to toe in thick clothing. Parties are a thing of the past, and dating hasn't been high on his list of priorities. No, high on his needs is blood. Lots of it. Adjusting to the changes no one even told him would happen following one great night of partying and sex has been hell for Bastian, but he's managing.

Riley Lynch's dream is to be a veterinarian. He works hard to pay his tuition, reads in every spare moment, and tries to forget the nightmare of his sophomore year. Summer has washed away all the bad, leaving him refreshed and eager for his junior year at UT. Life is finally looking up for him, and he has no intention of sliding back down into the depression that had consumed him during his last relationship.

A chance meeting brings their two worlds into alignment and passion sparks between them. When Riley learns of the changes Bastian is going through, he has a choice to make: walk away or embrace the night.

Overall
This story takes place in a traditional vampire world with a very different sort of vampire as the focus. Instead of the sexy, suave vampire, we are given as our lead vampire an average college student who has to figure out this new world on his own. Although the majority of the premise isn't earth shattering, the writing and story telling is excellent, and the authors delve into less common vampire lore, which is refreshing.

I would recommend this book for people who love reading vampire novels and are willing to give something a little different a chance. Also a good read for people who like contemporary romances, as long as they don't mind a little of the fantastical thrown in. While not an exceptional novel, it was an enjoyable read--perfect for the beach or curling up with on a lazy weekend.

Strengths
A fun combination of classic vampires and college students who are just trying to be college students--nothing mysterious.

The characters are cute and it was interesting watching them work through their struggles together. Riley, who protects his heart due to a previous relationship's experiences, seems to be the perfect, patient boyfriend until he becomes (understandably) a bit of a hypocrite. I loved how Riley deals with things by putting them in boxes and how facing what Bastian is forces him to come to terms the difficulties he had in his previous relationship. Bastian, on the other hand, struggles to deal with what he is, and feels like he never does anything right. Overall, his reaction to becoming a vampire and how he handles everything felt realistic.

The authors took the time to explore the progression of Bastian's vampirism. Nothing was gory, but there were some nice details added, especially the transformation of the fangs. I found the authors' treatment of the creation of vampires to be good, going into some details without boring the reader with too much info about a topic almost everyone is familiar with.

Weaknesses
While this was an enjoyable read, the story and world weren't very unique. For some this may be considered a positive, as the world complies to the standard vampire existence, but it definitely isn't the strongest part. Points off for creativity in that element. This is probably shown most in the character of Havva, who plays the controlling, powerful, and sneaky ruling vampire. Some may see her as everything a vampire should be, but I felt she was a touch cliche and found her arch of the story involving her to be the slowest moving.

Received this book for review.

Friday Special: If It Ain't Love by Tamara Allen

2011-10-07T17:09:00.001-04:00

If It Ain't Love by Tamara Allen
Stars: 5/5

Length: 18,000 words
Blurb
In the darkest days of the Great Depression, New York Times reporter Whit Stoddard has lost the heart to do his job and lives a lonely hand-to-mouth existence with little hope of recovery, until he meets Peter, a man in even greater need of new hope.

Overall
This is a beautifully written piece that follows the struggles of two men during the Great Depression and the hope that can be found in the most desperate of times. I don't have a single thing to mark off against this story. It was moving and well written, and I loved the characters, but it didn't make me feel like I was shorted (as many short stories do). It ended when it needed to. It painted the time period, surroundings, and characters superbly, giving enough to let the reader see without cluttering the pages.

A Solid Core of Alpha by Amy Lane

2011-10-06T18:02:00.002-04:00

A Solid Core of Alpha by Amy Lane
Stars: 4.5/5

Length: 100,000+ words
Blurb
In an act of heroism and self-sacrifice, Anderson Rawn's sister saved him from the destruction of their tiny mining colony, but her actions condemned the thirteen-year-old to ten years of crushing loneliness on the hyperspace journey to a new home. Using electronics and desperation, Anderson creates a family to keep him company, but family isn't always a blessing.

When Anderson finally arrives, C.J. Poulson greets him with curiosity and awe, because anyone who can survive a holocaust and reinvent holo-science is going to be a legend and right up C.J.'s alley. But the more C.J. investigates how Anderson endured the last ten years, the deeper he is drawn into a truly dangerous fantasy, one that offers the key to Anderson's salvation—and his destruction.

In spite of his best intentions, C.J. can’t resist the terribly seductive Anderson. Their attraction threatens to destroy them, because the heart of a man who can survive the destruction of his people and retain his sense of self holds a solid core of alpha male that will not be denied.

Overall
While I really, thoroughly, enjoyed this novel, it feels like nothing I've read before. While a romance was definitely central to the story, there was so much else going on. The psychological and emotional issues the two main characters need to work through and overcome are the main focus of at least the first three-quarters of the book. While Anderson has spent ten years alone on a ship with only his self-created holograms to interact with, C.J. has issues of his own involving commitment and a fear of taking on responsibility. But what Anderson needs most is stability, and C.J. is there for him, although all his friends and family warn him that Anderson is going to hurt him.

This is an emotionally moving book, but the hurt doesn't hit all at once. Instead of a sharp stab for a chapter or two like most books, this one spreads the pain over a good portion of the last quarter. It's not overly angsty or woe-is-me, though. It's an honest ache as the characters struggle to deal with heavy-duty challenges. In many hands this novel would have been terrible, but in Lane's it flourished, making the reader question what is real, but never questioning if love can help us heal. (Gee, am I much of a sap?)

Usually after reading a book, I know what I'm going to write for the review, or at least have an idea. After finishing this novel, my mind went blank and all the voices went quiet...

Strengths
The story is amazing, like one of those "you won't believe they survived" tales they show on (bad) television. Erm, except this isn't bad television, but great story telling. Lane handled all the characters extremely well, especially considering the delicacy of the situation. Anderson was an inventive and interesting character who didn't go the way I expected him to and I was still pleased with what Lane decided to do with him. She put the necessary thought and consideration into many minor and major elements that would effect the characters, especially Anderson, both psychologically and world-building wise. I enjoyed the romantic parts of the book, but it was interesting just to watch Anderson's progression from the first page to the last.

The writing, as I mentioned, was excellent. If it weren't for the strength of the writing, I don't think this novel would have been nearly as enjoyable, or perhaps even bearable. The author was able to bring the story and the characters to life, which was vital for this telling.

The characters were a colorful bunch who all wanted to be helpful, but were still very human with their quirks and weaknesses, which made their place in the story all the more real and made them interesting counterparts to the holograms.

Weaknesses
The only weakness of this novel, and it may not be a weakness upon re-reading, is that while I loved the characters, I was involved in their struggles and aches, I never fell so deep in their headspace that I lost myself. It was an amazingly well-done story, but I think the events were so outside my brain's capacity to relate that I had difficulty connecting. Or else I wanted it to be more angsty, I'm not sure. I look forward to re-reading it and trying to let myself sink into the characters more.

Requested this book for review.

Suite Nineteen by Mel Bossa

2011-10-02T20:56:00.002-04:00

Suite Nineteen by Mel Bossa
Stars: 3/5

Blurb
Drawn by the promise of change, young medium Ben Lebeau, moves to the big city, into the Shilts Manor—an old textile factory turned trendy loft space. There he meets seductive Lennox Van Kemp and his clan of Métis—guardians of the oldest lie. Ben is pulled into Van Kemp's emotional circle, finally sating his most secret desires.

Against Ven Kemp's warnings, Ben befriends his neighbor Ezra Collins—a scarred man who has taken a vow of celibacy. As Ben tries to get closer to Ezra and earn his trust, he also struggles to escape Van Kemp's psychological grip on him. The harder Ben falls for Ezra, the more he suffers from hallucinations and memory losses. Soon, the Manor's walls begin to close in on him and Ben must rely on his psychic abilities to survive the assault on his mind.

As Ben and Ezra unravel Van Kemp's plans, they expose a spiritual conspiracy dating back to Christ—a conspiracy that will shake their very world and restore their Faith in humanity.

Overall
Although I think this novel would have been better off in movie form, it wasn't as bad as I was expecting from the few reviews I glanced at on GoodReads. While it wasn't fantastic, it wasn't terrible either. It was very unique and definitely was striving to try something new and different, which I have to applaud. For the most part the reader and the narrator are both completely confused and lost, which makes the first 60% of the novel difficult to sink into, but around that point everything starts to get explained and plenty of action happens.

People who like psychological thrillers may enjoy this book, as it's very heavily entrenched in the style of the reader and narrator not knowing what's going on and trying to reveal the answers. There's also plenty of fantastical elements in this grim story. It's not a book I'd recommend to most people, as the plot took a long time to develop, the writing was okay (not bad, but not enough to grab me either), and it's a very strange story. But I only struggled through one part, so it wasn't too bad. I wasn't terribly in love with the characters, and while I was interested in what was happening, it seemed to take too long to get around to it. Overall, I felt very blase about this book.

Review
I don't think I can split this review evenly into Strengths and Weaknesses, so because the novel was different, I'm going to review it differently. Warning: Due to the nature of this book, I'm going to try not to hit any spoilers, but some small things may get through.

Ben is not an ideal hero and is an unreliable narrator because we spend over half the novel questioning if he's sane or not. He's struggling to start his life over after leaving his small town, but in addition to dealing with his psychic powers, he doesn't have a job and DOES have very strange neighbors, who he hasn't really met. Initially, Ben doesn't trust some of his neighbors, as he gets a very bad vibe from them, but later gives only the barest of resistence before falling into bed with them. His erratic behavior doesn't help the reader decide if he's sane or not, and even if he is sane, it leads us to question some other things about him and his decision to associate with people that he doesn't trust. I had a difficult time buying it, although some of it is explained by Ben's strained psyche and his confusion. I feel like the story was supposed to come across as him being manipulated, but it came across more that he was just being kind of stupid.

Not to say he wasn't being manipulated, because obviously large chunks of the story depend (rightly) on people lying to him constantly. Some parts of the manipulation were well done, it was just the initial switch from "bad vibe" to "hey, she's hot" that felt off to me. Speaking of which, Ben is bisexual, so floats between male and female lovers, although no sex is described on screen.

One of the most difficult elements of this book to get around is the mass confusion that the reader experiences through Ben. Because Ben can't tell what's real/true, neither can the reader, making for a very long beginning as the reader is dragged through events while Ben (often) makes poor decisions. Of course, the second half of the book goes a long way to explaining the first half, although it also raised some more questions, for me at least.

Having said all of that, this story does take the reader on quite the ride, from absolute confusion to mostly understanding which transforms into an action-y story. The characters are dark and are not people you'd typically want to become friends with, not even our lead narrator who is, overall, a good guy.

The worst part of the novel is when things start to be explained. The problem is that it gets explained all at once in an info dump like no other, where the reader finds out all sorts of supernatural stuff that was minimally hinted at before. Not only is all the information thrown at the reader at once, but it makes the first half of the story and the second half of the story feel like two different beasts. While I can see the need for the confusion in the beginning and the explanation, I didn't feel like they were well handled. A different approach to reach the same ending probably would have made this a very enjoyable story instead of a mediocre read.

There were creative elements of this novel that I really enjoyed, and some world building that I felt, if approached in a differently would have created a dark and interesting world. The struggle for sanity and reality was interesting, as was the fight for the self. However, the story didn't feel realized, and while I finished it, and enjoyed it for the most part, I can see most readers giving up on what is a difficult book to get through with varying levels of reward.

Requested this book for review.

Introducing Riptide Publishing

2011-10-01T17:18:00.005-04:00

I try not to do too much promotional stuff here, as this is a place to learn about books and my opinions on them (and share yours, if you'd like!). But some authors I really enjoy and respect have created a publishing company in order to right some wrongs (or add another list on their long list of things to keep them occupied). The great thing is that the authors and the readers will benefit from this, as far as I can tell. Plus, the cover images are all pretty great (of course, some tastes do vary, but they are really well done) and their author line up is rather impressive.

So they are having a ribbon cutting at Amara's Place. You can also find out their full list of festivies, giveaways, and such on their website. Also, I may just lure an author or two to visit later this year. Below is a list of the festivities that are beginning in October. (And now back to your regular entertainment.)

Riptide Publishing

Blog Tour

Contests

October 1-December 31, 2011

Meet Riptide’s First Wave Treasure Hunt - $50 All Romance Ebooks gift certificate - Join us for an interesting harvesting of pearls (of knowledge). Get to know our First Wave Authors and their work.

Register between October 17 and 21st by sending email to: hunt@riptidepublishing.com
The Treasure Hunt will run October 24 - 30. We'll select the winner from all the correct entries.

On October 1, go to our party page at http://www.riptidepublishing.com/grand-opening-party for all the details.

The prize for this hunt is a $50 All Romance Ebooks gift certificate.

Blog Tour Contest - How would you like to start 2012 reading all the great Riptide titles on a brand new iPad? It could very well happen and here’s how.

Check out our blog tour schedule every day between October 1 and December 31. Visit the sites where our authors are guest blogging or being interviewed, and leave a comment. It’s as easy as that.

Each comment earns you one entry in the grand prize drawing for an iPad. Other prizes are a Nook and a Kindle.

To keep things interesting, there will be tons of prizes along the way. Each stop includes prizes of our author’s backlist books, author and Riptide swag and gift certificates galore.

Win Free Books for a Year - Starting October 1, our web store will be open for pre-orders. For each book pre-ordered directly through our site, readers receive one entry into a drawing to win free books for a year! There are second and third prizes, too:

First Prize is one free copy of every single ebook Riptide releases in 2012!
Second Prize is one free copy of every single ebook Riptide releases between January 1 and June 30, 2012!
Third Prize is one free copy of every single ebook Riptide releases between January 1 and March 31, 2012!

That's a lot of free books! We'll draw winners at random right after the New Year, so even books pre-ordered in December will earn entries into the contest. And even those who don't win still get a nifty bonus: pre-ordered books are available for download two full days before their official sale date! Bonus Bucks (http://riptidepublishing.com/faq#t8n25) are earned on every pre-order you place.

18% Gray by Anne Tenino

2011-09-26T17:48:00.001-04:00

18% Gray by Anne Tenino
Stars: 4.5/5 (Practically a 5 though)

Blurb
In a future where the United States has split along party lines, Agent Matt Tennimore’s job is to get people out of the Confederated Red States, whether they’re captured special ops agents from his own country or gay CRS citizens who’ve petitioned for asylum. He never expected to have to retrieve his high school crush, aka the guy who ostracized him for being gay.

Rescuing James Ayala isn’t going to be easy: he’s crawling with tracking nanos and has a cybernetic brain implant that’s granted him psychic power he isn’t sure how to control. That’s the good news. The bad? The implant is compromising James’s mental stability.

So they’re on the run, avoiding surveillance by AI aircraft and hiding from enemy militia. Then James confesses he tormented Matt in high school because James wanted him. Matt can’t resist the temptation James offers, but he wants so much more than sex, assuming they ever make it home alive. Is James really a good bet when he’s got a ticking time bomb in his brain and there’s the question of how much he’s actually changed?

Overall
This novel is two stories structured like DNA strands, all tangled together. Half the story is how Matt is going to help James get out of the Red States, the struggles they face, James' brain implant, and lots of running, jumping, climbing trees (or hiding in ditches). The other half of the story is Matt and James' relationship, building up and mending from their high school days, and dealing with the feelings--both emotional and physical--that pass between them. What I loved about this novel is the excellent blending of the two parts, so things never overbalanced on either end and we never wondered when the other half of the story was going to progress.

The writing, story, pacing, characters and, well, just about everything was really good. Even the "weaknesses" are pretty flimsy. Although this novel didn't dig into my emotions and rip out my heart, and it didn't amaze me into speechlessness, it was an excellent, amazing novel that deserves a read from just about everyone. Really loved it.

Strengths
What grabbed me right off the bat was the creativity of the promised story. While the romance plays a pivotal role, there is so much more. The world development was detailed and exact, to the point where I could almost imagine everything they were discussing, even if the tools they were using weren't described, the way the characters used those tools told me enough. Everything was balanced, too, so the world building never overwhelmed, although at times it did take center stage.

The plot was pretty wonderful, although it could be summed up in one sentence (Guy A goes into enemy territory and extracts Guy B.). Of course there is more than that one sentence reveals, but the fact that the plot is pretty clear cut makes the unraveling all that more amazing. While the characters (and their motivations) really drive the story, this isn't what I would call character-centric, as their task keeps this a pretty action-packed story.

The journey through the desert could easily fall apart as boring, but strong writing and wise author decisions kept the story moving at a good pace and interesting. In addition, several times Tenino sets up the potential for the classic Misunderstanding or I'm Doing This For Your Own Good, but instead of sinking into that hole, she has her characters actually talk, which further develops them, helps the story move along, and shows that people can struggle with emotions without the Big Misunderstanding being the cause.

The characters were both interesting, fun, with rough edges and soft squishy centers. Although they both “fell in love” rather quickly (not fast enough to ping my insta-love radar, especially under the circumstances), I felt their internal and external struggles were handled well and thoroughly explored these characters. Matt is snarky and a little jaded, but not jaded enough to hold a grudge forever. James is dealing with some heavy duty issues (whole chip in brain thing), but doesn't obsess (too much) about it. They both are fighting to be their best for each other without being someone they aren't. The feeling of them being “average Joes” when they so obviously aren't was refreshing.

Weaknesses
This novel poked a pet peeve, but it didn't bother me as much as normal for a few reasons: 1) there was a pretty good reason behind it and 2) it was so well-written overall that I can forgive it. The peeve? Point of view switching. The whole novel is Matt or James, and then at the end we suddenly get others, mostly Laslo. (Of course, if there is going to be a sequel, maybe this was prep for it...). There is a good reason behind this, as the other narrators wouldn't be much help at this point, and for all the other things to be shown and not told about later, perspective needed to changed. So I forgive it, even though it's normally a huge No-no for me. Plus, I kind of like Laslo!

The second weakness, which doesn't really count, is that there were enough unanswered questions at the end that made me think there will be a sequel with some of the other characters (Laslo and Logan, yes?). There were a few other very tiny things left unfinished, but I can assume happy endings for those things and really don't want more. But there are a few small things I would have liked wrapped up in passing mention or would like to see developed in a sequel.

The third perceived weakness is the likelihood of two trained military men getting so distracted by one another that they, well, get distracted from their mission. Honestly, I never felt they got too off track from what they were supposed to be doing, and for the most part they saved their relationship things for appropriate times, but some people may get ruffled feathers over that. It didn't bother me, although I obviously noticed it. I think it was the scene against the tree that drove the point home the most.

Requested this book for review.

Daughters of Artemis, an anthology

2011-09-24T16:13:00.003-04:00

Daughters of Artemis, an anthology
Stars: 3/5

Blurb
Werewolf lore has long been dominated by tales of the strong alpha male, but what of the strong alpha females? The Storm Moon Press anthology "Daughters of Artemis" explores this mostly neglected aspect of the werewolf mythos, with an erotic twist.

Overall
Note: It's been a long time since I've read lesbian romance, and even when I did, I was very particular about it, favoring romances to erotic tales. Please keep this in mind when considering this review.

Anthologies are always hard to judge, since the writing varies, both based on strength and personal preferences. This anthology was a mix of mediocre and good, with just about every other story being well written. For fans of the genre, this will be an enjoyable dip into several different worlds with varying takes on werewolves and steamy scenes between our heroines. It's worth a shot if these two things push all your buttons, but the stories aren't strong enough on their own to tempt an outsider.

The Fullness That Love Began by Marie Carlson
A story that focuses more on sex than plot, there are several major issues that arise during the story. However, all the Big Deals aren't dealt with by the end, and although it "leaves you hanging," I didn't feel frustrated. It feels like it's the beginning of something bigger, but I wasn't involved with the characters enough to be worried. A bit too sex heavy for my liking, especially as the first in the anthology, but people may feel differently about it.

The Fire of Her Eyes by K. Piet
Starting and ending with action, this story has a nice lull in the center where everything becomes peaceful and domestic, letting the reader see how the characters react in urgent, political, and romantic settings. The difference and variety quickly develop the characters and the bond between the two leading females. Everything flowed nicely and the story was well constructed.

While she is arguably the more secondary of the two characters, since she's not the narrator, Yun stole the show for me. With her quiet strength, awesome ability, and talents, in addition to her blindness, she is very likable. Plus, the sensuality described between the two characters in bed gives the sex scenes a greater purpose than the tawdry. A nice, compact glimpse into this wolf pack.

Luna's Mate by Shashauna P. Thomas
My first impression of this story was that it was going to be humorous because the writing style seemed to focus on the silly: Luna's bad luck and clumsiness. However, it quickly turned darker as Luna is attacked by wolves and her luck just seems to get worse from there. The plot line had great potential as the awkward misfit finds her place in the world after two harrowing encounters.

However, I was never able to really enjoy this story because the writing kept me from sinking into the characters and really being absorbed in their problems and emotions. The writing wasn't bad, but it wasn't smooth enough to let me forget that I was reading. I felt like I was being told more what was happening than being shown it, although things were written in an active voice. Part of the problem could stem from the feeling that this was a larger story clipped into a short, thus it left the author trying to prune facts to be able to fit into it, making some of the writing come across choppy.

To Pierce the Sky by Erik Moore
I'll be honest, I had a little snicker at the title, because sometimes I have the maturity of a twelve-year-old. However, this is a good story, with nice pacing, and interesting if not unimaginative characters. The conflict and resolution are believable and realistic (which I think we can agree are different things when talking about a world with werewolves). Susan also had a character development point that I thought worked well for her history and her character and helped make her more interesting.

The story takes place in a Lakota tribe (of werewolves, of course), and mixes tradition with modern conveniences, as well as doing an excellent job of weaving white and Lakota culture/myths. And since it did make me laugh at first, there was a good reference of the myth in the title. Overall enjoyable.

Protect the Moon by Della R. Buckland
This short action fantasy felt a little too cliche for my tastes, as the (special) big, tough werewolf is sent to protect the (special) new-age witch. Much of the story seemed to happen without much explanation as though it was just a taste of the world, although it didn't really entice me to want more. It read like it was pulled from a table top RPG, from the specificity of clothing and weapons and the set up of the politics to the amount of detail given to the characters' appearances.

The writing was stiff, probably due to the consistently short sentence structure, although I recognize I'm hypersensitive about this. In addition, Jade presented as an innocent woman who is being sucked into a world that's bigger than she thought. Several of her actions in the beginning of the novel take an almost wicked angle once the reader has knowledge of the facts at the end. I didn't like her, didn't trust, and wasn't sure our lead female should trust her either.

Sacrifices by SL Armstrong
The werewolves in this story weren't really werewolves, although wolves were the theme of the group of elves. The culture and society in which this story takes place seems deeply involved, although the reader is only given a glimpse. Although I'd liked to have learned more, I appreciate that the story wasn't burdened with information and the reader is left to make some leaps and fill in some blanks. However, that being said, some clarification on what exactly the characters in the story were would have been helpful. Things were a little too vague at times.

Still, this was an enjoyable story where the main character has to appease her King, her mate, and her pack while also finding her own happiness. While the plot didn't blow me away, the writing was strong and it was a good finish to the anthology. It's also interesting to note that the first and last stories in the group both involve het sex and child bearing.

Received this book for review.

Magic Fingers by Etienne

2011-09-20T18:39:00.001-04:00

Magic Fingers by Etienne
Stars: 2/5

Blurb
David Majors should be looking forward to a long and prosperous life: after tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, he’s attending college courtesy of Uncle Sam and riding the fast track to success. He’s tall, fit, and good-looking, so shouldn’t the world be his oyster? But underneath his clothes—and beneath the surface—David is a mess of scar tissue and insecurity.

Then he meets Kevin Boxer, another former Army Ranger. Their first night together, Kevin stares David’s scars in the face and doesn’t flinch, instead showering David with the passion and attention he craves but never imagined possible. Slowly but surely, Kevin helps David rebuild his confidence, and the two of them begin to build their life together. But their journey is far from over, and it turns out Kevin may need David to help him heal some scars of his own.

Overall
Although this books is promoted as stand alone (part of the Avondale series), I don't think readers who aren't already familiar with the characters from the other Avondale stories will take much from this novel. Although the initial premise is interesting and promises emotional and psychological exploration, the story mainly just follows Kevin and David from their first passionate meeting through to many years later.

The difficulty of finishing the novel is that if you haven't read any of the previous Avondale books, very few, if any, of the characters hold much meaning, so the reader is just guided through everyday life while constantly waiting for something to happen. Nothing does. This may be a good read for fans of Avondale who want to know more about this couple, who I'm guessing make appearances in the other novels (which is why the story got 2 stars instead of 1), but I wouldn't recommend it to the random reader.

Strengths
This story has a very interesting concept that I was eager to see explored: A man deprived of his manhood in modern day America. I've dealt with similar concepts before, but the social environment was never the same, although certain implications still stood true. In Magic Fingers, David not only has to come to terms with his injury, but he has to face others judging him in a very personal, intimate manner. And until he meets Kevin, he's never come across someone who hasn't walked out. There was a potential for great emotional and psychological depth to be explored here.

The writing wasn't bad, but it did feel a little stiff--or at least not strong enough to make up for the lack of story. It was good enough that I did finish the novel, even though the plot and characters didn't entice me.

Weaknesses
This story lacks any real plot line. Although plenty of things happen from beginning to end, none of them are explored thoroughly or as a driving focus of the story, except maybe David's injury. But even that isn't given it's due as while it affects multiple things in the story, it never really goes beyond surface tension. The lack of plot is the biggest weakness of this story as it takes two characters and gives them easy challenges that they always overcome, sometimes with the help of family and friends. The conflicts are always outside sources that are taken care of within a few pages. This read more like a happy dream-fantasy than a novel.

I was also a little disturbed with how David told his father about his injury. Perhaps that shows my own prejudice, but I don't know many sons who would just drop their shorts in front of their father. This was after several other incidents (the party where David first walks around naked in front of other people) that made me feel very disconnected to the characters. They live in a very different world from me and the author never helped me bond with them.

Spoilers below
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I think the most frustrating part of this story is that there are so many potential points of interest that could have been developed. David's injury obviously caused him plenty of previous psychological issues, but when Kevin accepts him (instantly) there is little further drama, except when David is expected to walk around nude or tell his family. Potential for emotional/psychological development that was never touched upon.

Kevin's family is pretty messed up, but he's turned out alright, probably due to his great aunt's and grandmother's influences. The book blurb is probably referring to this as the scars that David will help him heal, but these didn't feel like scars so much as scratches from a pricker bush. Band-aids and kisses made them all better.

Finally, they adopt Kevin's nephew, who has abandonment issues, which they talk about and are careful about, but never really need to face. Another potential for developing characters that was left as something that was talked about but never explored.

All these points suffer from the reader being told the story instead of shown it. Even the writing style goes along these lines, as the first person perspective switches between the two leading males as if they are taking turns telling someone their life story. I think this would have worked better if we were shown one major event in their lives instead of being told about all of them.

Requested this book for review.

Movie Reviews for September 17

2011-09-17T10:40:00.009-04:00

Note: There will be a lag of movie reviews after this, as my next few Netflix items are all Doctor Who discs, and no one needs reviews of them.

Food of Love - Ventura Pons writes and directs Food of Love, adapting the novel The Tale of Love by David Leavitt, which tells the complex story of a love affair between an 18-year-old man and his much older mentor. Paul (Kevin Bishop) is a music student working as an assistant for classical pianist Richard (Paul Rhys). The two meet in Barcelona and begin a passionate tryst, but they must contend with the disapproval of Paul's mother and Richard's boyfriend.

(rent) If you're familiar with David Leavitt's The Language of Cranes, then the feel of Food of Love will be familiar. While not exactly depressing, the realism of the end result mixed with a surreal plot left me struggling to keep my own head above water. The acting was superb, but most of the characters have few desirable traits, leaving me distant from all of them and the ending did little to endear me, although it was, in a way, satisfactory. While I think it's worth seeing, especially if you enjoy Leavitt's stuff, I wouldn't watch it more than once.

Chef's Special - Obsessed with his chic Madrid restaurant becoming rated in the prestigious Michelin guide, openly gay chef Maxi (Javier Cámara) runs into endless personal problems when his estranged children suddenly reenter his life and a hunky ex-footballer (Benjamín Vicuña) moves in next door. Full of delightful twists and turns, this Spanish romantic comedy co-stars Lola Dueñas, Chus Lampreave and Luis Varela.

(rent/buy) This is a wonderfully classic romantic comedy that had me laughing and groaning in amusement and horror as everything goes from crazy to crazier. The worst part of this movie is that it's subtitled and Spanish, which means it's a pretty fast paced, but not impossible to keep up with and whatever gets missed can be gleaned from body language. I didn't get into this movie immediately, as the main character is bit of a jerk sometimes/most the time and there are plenty of awkward moments, but everyone grew on me and it was a delightful laugh and story.

KM.0 - The love lives of 14 people intersect at the Plaza del Sol in Madrid one day in August. Vignettes include stories of mistaken identity and comedies of error involving people who are both gay and straight -- and everything in between. A young movie director mistakenly gets a ride from a prostitute; a struggling actress goes to desperate measures to impress the wrong director; a woman hires an escort who may be a relative.

(rent) Although this movie didn't grab me right off the bat, it definitely played out well, although it did have a saccharine ending. Sometimes the events are slightly beyond realistic, but if you watch just to watch, it's enjoyable. Not a great movie overall, there are some touching, wonderful moments that made the movie worthwhile for me. The acting ability covers the scale, although overall is good. This is in Spanish, and sometimes things are said very quickly, but the gist of what's going on is easy to follow.

Fogi Is a Bastard - Looking for adventure, 15-year-old Beni (Vincent Branchet) becomes a roadie for a rock band and promptly falls in love with the group's charismatic lead singer, Fogi (Frederic Andrau). Problems arise when Fogi takes advantage of Beni's affections and ushers him into a downward spiral. Drug addiction, sex and drunken excess await the innocent young lad. Writer-director Marcel Gisler helms this coming-of-age film based on the novel by Martin Frank.

(rent) I really don't know what to say about this movie, as it was nothing like I was expecting, not even after reading the above blurb. I kept expecting Fogi to really be a jerk, but aside from a few scenes (involving Beni behaving like a dog and Fogi selling him off), Fogi is mostly just rock-star attitude. This story is a wild ride as Beni immediately falls in love with Fogi and Fogi takes full advantage of that, while also bouncing around loving/needing Beni back. Be prepared for drugs, sex, rock'n'roll, and a touch of puppy-play (which completely surprised me). I think it's worth checking out (with an open mind) but not really owning, unless it speaks to you.

Fish Out of Water - Spurred by director Ky Dickens's own coming-out story, this playfully animated documentary confronts the slippery topic of homosexuality head on, homing in on Bible verses oft-cited as condemnatory and opening them to fresh interpretation. A cartoon narrator guides a broad-minded exploration of the thorny issue as a range of individuals in red states and blue, from theologians to barbershop denizens, weigh in with their experiences and beliefs.

(rent) This was a very educational film and worth checking out for Christians, gay or straight, who have interest in the "gay issue." I found the approach very amiable and the points they made were very good, backed with scholarly research. My only qualm is that it was obviously pushing a specific stance and I wish we could have seen more scholarly opposition (it has to exist, right?). Not to confuse the issue, but to actually open up a dialogue between the two sides. However, I could be wrong and there is no scholarly opposition, in which case this was very well presented. Definitely worth the short watch time!

Avatar - Disabled Marine Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) travels to planet Pandora to become an avatar, ingratiate himself with the natives and help Americans mine lucrative unobtainium. But he finds himself in an interstellar conflict after falling for Na'vi warrior Neytiri (Zoe Saldana). James Cameron writes and directs this Golden Globe-winning CGI odyssey that has broken box office records. Sigourney Weaver and Stephen Lang co-star.

(buy) I feel like I'm the last person to have seen this movie. I realize I should have seen it in theaters, because it is a beautiful, visual piece, but I don't often get to theaters as the single friend among couples. And then there was so much hype about it that I didn't want to see it, afraid it wouldn't be good enough. Plus I was just sick of hearing about it. So I was nervous, like going on a date with someone who your friends have been talking about. But I have to say it was really good. And I say that missing two chapters in the middle because of a faulty disc. The acting was excellent, to the point that it didn't feel like acting so much as it felt like I was interrupting someone's life, the visuals were all amazing, and the story was good, if not somewhat predictable. This movie is worth watching just for the sheer beautiful of the world that has been created.

Holding Trevor - Stuck in a dead-end relationship with a heroin addict boyfriend, Trevor (Brent Gorski) finds fresh hope in the form of hunky doctor Ephram (Eli Kranski). But when conflicts arise between Trevor and his best friends, Andie (Melissa Searing) and Jake (Jay Brannan), his newfound happiness crumbles. To pull himself together again, Trevor must decide what -- and who -- is most important to him.

(rent) This is a heavier movie that deals with serious topics. I'm not sure it succeeded, as often toward the end I was unsure about Trevor's motivations and decision. I also found Trevor's friends to be rather lacking, and even if Trevor isn't the best catch, I felt like he deserved better...mostly in the form of Ephram. The climax leads Trevor to a difficult decision, and you have to kind of respect whatever he chooses, although you don't have to agree with him, which I didn't. The acting was okay (nothing to write home about), and the camera work felt like it was going for a "natural" feel. Worth a watch, but not much else.

Bedrooms and Hallways - At the suggestion of a friend, gay Leo (Kevin McKidd) enters therapy after many failed relationships make him fear for his social life. In a group session (led by Simon Callow), Leo comes clean about his feelings for a straight member of the group (James Purefoy), which leads to an affair between the two. The situation becomes further complicated by the appearance of Leo's high school sweetheart (Jennifer Ehle), who still has feelings for him.

(rent) This was a cute, funny little film with the added benefit of Hugo Weaving having kinky sex as a side story. It was nice, because I couldn't see which direction it was headed, and even if I didn't particularly like the end result, it wasn't a bad thing either. This film had good acting, good dialogue, and a fun premise that kept me interested. Definitely worth a watch, although for me it isn't something I'd buy, other people may feel differently.

FYI

2011-09-11T18:21:00.003-04:00

FYI

For those of you who haven't heard, I was in an accident this weekend. I was galloping at full speed when my horse stepped in a gopher hole up to his knee and fell forward. I feel forward off him, landing on my right side. I can barely move my shoulder, although there are no broken bones. I have a fever and a black eye as well. However, all the sore muscles and pain killers leave me exhausted. Typing and focusing are hard, so I may not be posting anything for a little while, depending on how quickly I heal. I have a few things already typed up, so I may post those reviews, but I'm not sure how up I'll be for writing reviews even if I do read things, especially after a full day of work.

This really shouldn't last long, but I didn't want to leave you hanging either.

Thanks for your patience.

ETA: My fever is dropping, but I think I'm getting a cold from the hospital.

Bear, Otter, and the Kid by TJ Klune

2011-09-06T19:00:00.003-04:00

Bear, Otter, and the Kid by TJ Klune
Stars: 5/5

Blurb
Three years ago, Bear McKenna’s mother took off for parts unknown with her new boyfriend, leaving Bear to raise his six-year-old brother Tyson, aka the Kid. Somehow they’ve muddled through, but since he’s totally devoted to the Kid, Bear isn’t actually doing much living—with a few exceptions, he’s retreated from the world, and he’s mostly okay with that. Until Otter comes home.

Otter is Bear’s best friend’s older brother, and as they’ve done for their whole lives, Bear and Otter crash and collide in ways neither expect. This time, though, there’s nowhere to run from the depth of emotion between them. Bear still believes his place is as the Kid’s guardian, but he can’t help thinking there could be something more for him in the world... something or someone.

Overall
Wow. I picked this up to review only because I'd heard good things and the names intrigued me. I don't really like stories involving kids, especially since this one so obviously centered around kids, or at least the Kid. I'm glad I did, because if not I would have never experienced that which is the Kid and Otter and Bear (even if you want to beat some sense into him half the time) and Creed and Anna and Mrs. Paquinn. The cast is actually surprisingly small, considering how long the book is, but it's a constant roller coaster of emotions as these characters interact as only close friends and family can.

Strengths
This story takes the reader on a trip that is several layers of amazing and heavy-duty emotional turmoil. It's not playing at being great literature, but it is doing exactly what the story sets out to do: Rip your heart out, pour salt on it, then shove it back in your chest. And it does this several times, although one time is especially painful. For those who thrive off this pain, the book will be delicious, trust me. Those who don't enjoy this agony will probably find it long. I loved it (see below: Emotional Masochist).

The characters were funny, sweet, caring and incredibly human (even if I wanted to throttle Bear). Even Bear is lovable because while wanting to kill him, you more want to kill his mother who inflicted the emotional damage and left him that way. And while that doesn't excuse everything, for him it does at least a little, because he strives so hard to protect the Kid and himself from getting hurt now, even though it ends up just hurting them both more. And Otter has to be the most patient and biggest besotted fool that ever lived. But I love him. I want to curl up on him and take him home in a big box (with holes) and keep him. (Yes, I'm a sap sometimes.) Also, since I don't like children stories that much, I was glad to find that the Kid is very mature for his age.

While the writing wasn't amazing, it remained honest to the narrator's voice, and since this was first person, much of the "style" is dependent on keeping true to the narrator, which I felt was done here. It was good, strong writing that served its purpose and I look forward to reading more by the author to see if it will continue.

One final note on the plot. There are two main sections to the plot, one is Bear coming to terms with his sexuality and feelings toward Otter, and the second is him learning to trust his loved ones in a way he obviously hasn't for the last three years. This could almost be broken into two books, although it works just as well as one and there would be some down sides to it being two different books, especially because they are on such a short time line. This isn't a plot-heavy story in some ways, as the plot is definitely character driven, although some events are motivated by outside characters.

Weaknesses
This is a long and angst-filled story, which I loved. But if you aren't in the mood for a long journey filled with more tears and poor decisions than you can shake a stick at, then you will want to put this aside for another day. I definitely recommend this book, but it won't be for everyone, especially if you don't like overly emotional, slightly maudlin tales. If you do, or are willing to get one a chance, this is a great, very well-done example.

With that in mind, even for me the story was a touch long. Half-way through I was like "Really, there's more?" and then stuff happened and I was swept up in it. But at times the rational part of my brain did point out the story was kind never ending and Bear is a super idiot. SUPER idiot. But he's also emotionally broken, so I forgave him. (And possibly because I'm an emotional masochist.)

Requested this book for review.

Ellery's Duty by Kim Dare

2011-09-05T19:41:00.003-04:00

Ellery's Duty by Kim Dare
Stars: 3/5

Blurb
As a well respected dominant, Ellery has been watching the subs from the local leather bars disappear into the lions’ den for far too long, and he’s not convinced that everything is as fine as they all claim it is. He’s determined to find out what really happens in there. If the only way he can do that is to volunteer to be thrown to the lions himself, so be it.

Kefir’s never worked out what the other lions find so interesting about the human sacrifices who visit their den, but this new man is unlike any other human he’s ever met, and Kefir’s captivated. Can the smallest lion in the pride claim a man like Ellery as his pet—is that even the way Kefir wants to think of his human mate?

Overall
After reading the the first book in this series, I immediately wanted to know more about Kefir, who was different from the other lions. And while I enjoyed his story, I was in no way enchanted. I think the problem is that I still love Kefir and I didn't really like Ellery much at all. He had his moments, normally when he was cuddling up with Kefir, but anytime he was dealing with anyone aside from Kefir, he came across as an arrogant prick.

Of course, if you like your dom to be an arrogant prick, then maybe you won't mind. After a second read through, he didn't come across so grating, but I still don't like him and how he handles Kefir, for the most part.

The weird thing is, I would re-read this story only because I really do like Kefir and I want him to have his happy ending, even if it's with Ellery.

Characters aside, there isn't too much to entice the reader, aside from shifters and BDSM, which may be enough for some people. The writing of this series continues to be middle of the road and the plots don't grab my attention. I almost feel (and I hope it's not just because of the mood I'm in) that the author has these characters and wants the story told, but just wants to get to the happy ending without having to trudge through all the work to really get the reader there. Don't get me wrong, I want the happy ending, but I also want the characters and the reader to have to earn it.

Marrick's Promise by Kim Dare

2011-08-31T19:43:00.001-04:00

Marrick's Promise by Kim Dare
Stars: 3/5

Blurb
Marrick thinks that being thrown to the lions will be the ultimate adrenaline rush, and he’s not disappointed. But his plan is to try everything life has to offer once. He has no intention of visiting the lions again.

Blaine and Luther don’t expect to give any of the human sacrifices they share another thought once they leave the den. This man’s different. They have no intention of letting this one go. The only question is, while they are willing to share Marrick with each other, are they willing to share each other with a human who could become as important to each of them as they are to each other?

Overall
This blurb, specifically the last line, is extremely misleading. The majority of the novel isn't about "can we make this threesome work?" In fact, aside from some initial struggle where Luther and Blaine make faces at one another and try to make sure they are both OK with what's happening (emotionally), the two were-lions are pretty comfortable with Marrick as their pet. I thought that it worked for this story, since that concept wasn't really the focus of the story.

In fact, the focus of the story mostly seems to be about sex until Marrick finally makes the long-hinted-at action and all three men struggle to come to an understanding with some outside help (or non-help, as sometimes the case seems to be). I enjoyed the story and the characters and overall the writing, but none of it was enough to grab me and make me want to stay and read more. Everything felt a little sex heavy, and I wasn't really inspired by the scenes. An OK novel.

Strengths
The characters were pretty interesting, with our masochist Marrick and two were-lions who have been told that humans are fragile. Blaine and Luther come across as being pretty dense, which I think is the author's intention, and really is the device that keeps the story moving forward as they just don't get it. I didn't fall in love with the characters, but I enjoyed while they were on stage, for what it was worth.

The final sex scene was the best and strongest scene in the book, I felt. It had emotion and depth that the rest of the book lacked, and it made me yearn to have the entire novel written with such thought and care. It was the first time I really felt what the characters felt and could understand what they all needed from one another--not just understand, but see it.

Weaknesses
I might be the only one who feels this way, but there was too much sex going on. Between sprints of plot were marathons of sex (okay, that may be a slight exaggeration). I'm fine with lots of sex, but I didn't really feel anything for these characters, and I couldn't buy why they wanted one another, aside from the mate thing. It wasn't until the final scene that they actually seemed to care for one another in a way that didn't involve a body part being shoved into another man's body part.

What is probably the crucial weakness for me is the lack of dynamic between characters. Supposedly Marrick is the mate to both Luther and Blaine and we see some of their yearning to always be near him and protect him, although some of it comes across as over-protective and domineering, but I never really got an impression from Marrick that he was in love with these two. While we were told that he was, and that he couldn't sleep without them, I didn't really go for it. Maybe we were limited by the length, but I wanted more development before they were swearing themselves to each other.

Hard as Teak by Margie Church

2011-08-30T20:13:00.001-04:00

Hard as Teak by Margie Church
Stars: 3/5

Blurb
Kevin Marks escapes to the north woods to reignite his passion for photography and women. But the only flame he seems able to spark is for his latest photography subject, Teak Hildalgo, and Kevin's never been in a man's arms before.

Teak, the raven-haired, photographer's dream come true, is hell bent on capturing Kevin's heart. He takes Kevin, body and soul, on a romantic, sexual journey previously lived only in Kevin's fantasies. And no dream was ever this good, no truth this undeniable.

Will Kevin ever be the same? When the camera's put away, will Teak live up to his name?

Overall
I like photographers in stories and tattoos, so this seems like a match made in heaven. But while most of the story itself wasn't bad, many of the writer's choices, specifically in dialogue and while in bed, kept me from enjoying this as much as I could have. However, this is definitely a personal feeling--what bothered me may not bother another reader. See more details below.

What impressed me most is some of the instances that are set up for classical major dramas that the author doesn't take. While it may not be the path less traveled, there is at least different scenery along the way. The writing wasn't terrible, but it wasn't incredibly strong either; it was just good enough to keep me reading, as long as I skipped most the sex scenes.

Strengths
The plot was probably the most interesting element of the novel. In the beginning Kevin struggles with his suddenly altered view of his sexuality, while also being unable to deny that Teak is attractive--something more than just a photographer's appreciation. As he comes to terms with that, he's then faced with having to dump his girlfriend and having to find a way to make a long-distance relationship work--assuming Teak is even interested.

Beyond all of that, Kevin and Teak have to deal with some pretty common stuff that any couple--especially a gay couple where one member is "famous"--has to deal with. What I liked was that not every incident caused a huge blow up and lots of drama. That part felt extremely realistic, especially after a somewhat wobbly beginning.

Weaknesses
Hello Random Change in Perspective. Pet peeve, I know, but for 80% of the book we are in Teak and Kevin's head, and then, suddenly, we are in other characters' heads. If we had moments similar to this earlier in the book, I may have let it go, but the sudden switch is a giant niggle to me.

The other point, which may be more preference, was the sex scenes. They felt more porno than sexy to me, especially the dialogue. They didn't really catch my interest and I found myself skimming them more than reading them.

Promises by Marie Sexton

2011-08-28T16:02:00.003-04:00

Promises by Marie Sexton

Stars: 4-4.5/5

Blurb
Jared Thomas has lived his whole life in the small mountain town of Coda, Colorado. He can't imagine living anywhere else. Unfortunately, the only other gay man in town is twice his age and used to be his teacher, so Jared is resigned to spending his life alone.

Until Matt Richards walks into his life, that is. Matt has just been hired by the Coda Police Department, and he and Jared immediately become friends. Matt claims he is straight, but for Jared, having a sexy friend like Matt is way too tempting. Facing Matt’s affair with a local woman, his disapproving family, and harassment from Matt’s co-workers, Jared fears they'll never find a way to be together—if he can even convince Matt to try.

Overall
After the first book I read by Sexton (Between Sinners and Saints), I was hesitant to read another Sexton book, for fear it couldn't live up to the previous. However, now that I've read another excellent book by Sexton, I feel like I should tentatively add her to a favorite author's list.

I was not too impressed by the first few chapters; the writing wasn't grabbing me and not much was happening with the characters. But all at once I fell in love with Lizzy (after she says something teasingly to Jared) and everything in the story started to come together and I began to settle into the wonderful journey that Sexton provided. My initial lackluster response was probably due to the style of writing, which I fell is more casual and, while not quite stream-of-conscious, it has a more personality to it. This isn't a negative, and it definitely works as the story progresses, but it kept me from really sinking into the story at the beginning (although I'm not sure why). By the end I was in love with the characters and the storyline.

This is an excellent story, and definitely worth checking out, especially if you're looking for something that is light and romantic without being too over the top, angsty, or dramatic. This is deliciously sweet without causing cavities.

Strengths
As they say, “It's the journey, not the destination.” The exploration of characters, setting, and the development of Matt and Jared's relationship from friends to lovers is a journey worth taking, since when you reach the destination—the end of the book—you want to be back on the road, experiencing the journey once again.

While obviously the romance takes center stage in this story, it's not the sole focus as the characters struggle against bias, their own hang-ups, and outside forces. The balance between what the world throws at them and their own fears of what the world is going to throw at them, is artistically handled. This is a realistic romance that gives us a long glancing look at Jared's life. It reads true and honest.

In addition to the main two men, there is a cast of other characters who add wonderful dimension to the story. Most of them are lovable, or amusing, although Lizzy is my favorite side character. She's funny, sweet, and really cares about Jared's happiness in a way that made me want to yank her from the book to have as a friend. Plus Jared is kind, if not a little scared, and Matt is strong and stubborn (and a touch manipulative, in a good way).

Weaknesses
The beginning of this story didn't really grab me. Although the characters seemed somewhat interesting and I trusted Sexton would get me somewhere worthwhile, it definitely wouldn't have caught my interest if I were just reading the first chapter. However, this could just very much be me, as the second time I read it, I had no problems with the writing or the opening chapters.

What really kept this story from getting a 5 star rating, and probably the only thing, is that I didn't feel emotionally flabbergasted by the anything. It was a good, strong story with good, strong characters and when I'm in the mood for something light and sweet and real feeling, I'll definitely come back to this again and again. But it did nothing to amaze me and nudge it up to 5 stars. Still, an excellent read!

Requested this book for review.

Signed and Sealed by B.A. Stretke

2011-08-25T21:23:00.001-04:00

Signed and Sealed by B.A. Stretke
Stars: 2-2.5/5

Blurb
William Drake’s living an ordinary life—he's got a job, a dog, and a house near Lake Superior—when a frantic call for help from his ne'er-do-well sister, Katrina, throws a big rancher-shaped kink in the works. Proving that no good deed goes unpunished, Will’s arrival at the Montana ranch belonging to Katrina's fiancé, Martin, is marked by a flat tire and unexpected help from a tall, dark, and handsome Good Samaritan who turns out to be Elijah Hunter, Martin's brother, and the most unsettling man Will has ever met.

Eli’s fury over Katrina’s misdeeds boils over onto Will, and he demands that Will remain on the ranch until the matter is resolved. While Will can take Katrina's place, Eli doesn’t make it easy, testing Will at every turn, but Will’s uncompromising morals exceed even Eli’s exacting standards. The attraction growing between them is further complicated by Eli’s ultimatum: he's still holding Katrina to the pre-nup she signed... unless Will agrees to marry Eli instead.

Overall
A lot of other reviewers have listed this book as "Harlequin" in nature, which really didn't mean much to me, since I've not read enough Harlequins to judge. However, it is something to keep in mind when reading this review, as some of my points may be applied to this Harlequin status.

To enjoy this book, the reader is going to have to take a ginormous leap of faith from the beginning, as the entire story is reliant on the notion that Will is practically held hostage at Eli's estate. While he's not being forced physically, Eli is holding financial reasons over his head. I found that, and the majority of the plot, to be ridiculous and horribly weak, which made a majority of the story unenjoyable. That, rolled together with the facts that Will can't trust Eli (who seems to change personalities every other scene) and Eli thinks Will is a gold digger like his sister, but they both have the hots for each other, makes for a frustrating story.

However, not all is lost. Once the story begins to dig deeper into Eli actually beginning to court Will and overcoming Will's distrust of him, the story picks up. If this is "your sort of story," I think it could be very interesting, but in general I was not impressed.

Strengths
Admittedly, I have a soft spot for antagonistic romances where hatred (with a touch of lust) blossoms into love. Once this novel got to that point where the initial logistics were put behind and Eli was beginning to court Will, everything was much more enjoyable. I realize that a large portion of the beginning was needed to develop their relationship to create the conflict, but more could have been done to focus on the strength of the story rather than the flimsy building blocks.

Weaknesses
The point of view was third person limited omniscient, jumping from character to character at the author's discretion. While it wasn't done poorly, I feel this novel could have improved if it was kept in a second person perspective, leaving the reader just as confused as Will was about Eli's motives and feelings. As it was, we know what's going through Eli's head, and it makes the majority of the struggles rather inane. While many books flip between the two characters and play off "misunderstanding" trope, this novel relied too heavily on Will's issues and distrust to work the conflict appropriately. While we can see Eli is a bit of a jerk, we never think he's as mean as Will does because we see inside Eli's head, although sometimes even that isn't enough to make sense of what's going on. I give the author credit for being consistently omniscient in writing, but don't feel it was very helpfully to the story telling.

The set up of the story was the most difficult for me, as I mentioned above. It seemed trite and unfeasible. I couldn't buy it and so I had a difficult time settling into where the author wanted me to go. Along those lines, I had a hard time buying that Will could just take off from work for a month, since we know he's not exactly rich. Plus, even though his dog is safe at a "friend's" house, I'd be a little pissed if I was asked to dog-sit for a weekend and it became a month! And he never calls to see how the dog is. Minor points, perhaps, but symptoms of the larger problem.

In addition, Eli seemed a bit unbalanced. To an extent, we are given the reasons behind this, but for the most part he just comes off as a little crazy/vengeful, which makes sense, as this is how Will is supposed to see him. However, some of the events that we see through Will's eyes are not compatible with how Eli behaves when we see events through Eli's eyes. Not until the end did Eli begin to have a consistent personality that seemed to fit with the person everyone describes throughout the story.

Requested this book for review.

Change of Heart by Mary Calmes

2011-08-23T20:54:00.005-04:00

Change of Heart by Mary Calmes
Stars: 2.5-3/5

Blurb
As a young gay man―and a werepanther―all Jin Rayne yearns for is a normal life. Having fled his past, he wants nothing more than to start over, but Jin’s old life doesn’t want to let him go. When his travels bring him to a new city, he crosses paths with the leader of the local were-tribe.

Logan Church is a shock and an enigma, and Jin fears that Logan is both the mate he fears and the love of his life. Jin doesn't want to go back to the old ways, and mating would irrevocably tie him to them. But Jin is the mate Logan needs at his side to help him lead his tribe, and he won't give Jin up so easily. It will take time and trust for Jin to discover the joy in belonging to Logan and how to love without restraint.

Overall
I wanted to enjoy this novel more than I actually did, and while parts of it really grabbed me and held my attention, most of it dragged on and on and on. Part of the problem was imbalance of information. On one hand, we would be given the same information repeatedly, and while it was important, it wasn't so difficulty to understand that the reader didn't get it the first time. On the other there was a habit of not mentioning a vital piece of cultural information until it's useful to the main character, either for him to use or to be used against him. While with the number of cultural-specific elements it would have been difficult to be warned about things, I felt like information "talking up" the main character was stressed while plot-relevant information was left on a need-to-know basis.

The storyline, while it had its faults, kept me interested enough to continue reading, and I was happy with the results, but there were definitely parts that left me wanting. I think my biggest mark against this book is that I enjoyed it to a degree that made me want to like it more and made me want to see the story live up to its potential. I'm not sure I'd recommend this book to someone else, but I wouldn't talk someone out of it either, especially if they enjoy shapeshifter stories.

Strengths
While neither of the characters are types that endeared me to them, I appreciated them as people, and I appreciated how they were handled. Logan is a top dog―so to speak―and acts accordingly. Sure he has tender moments with his mate, but he also is pushy, bossy and, at moments, scary in his violence. I found Jin annoying, but I could also understand some of his behaviors and defenses, even if they did make me want to grab his ear and twist until he apologized. For me, his flops between “woe is me” and “cocky bastard” were hard to take, although that's just how some people are. Even not liking the characters, I thought they were interesting.

Another strength was the challenge from an outside character and the resulting struggle between characters, both trying to protect one another while facing despairing odds. The build up from when the challenge is issued up through the resulting solution were pretty intense, although some of the resolution felt a little too easily resolved.

Weaknesses
Info dumping had to be my biggest peeve with this novel. Admittedly, there is a lot of vital cultural information for the reader to know, but sometimes we're given too much information―repeatedly--and other times we're just given the brush off with bare minimal information. When the info was being repeated, I felt like the author was playing me as stupid, and when it wasn't developed, I felt like the author was hiding things or not bothering. I think this was even more frustrating because of the potential this world had in being exceptionally interesting.

Along those lines, I think if this were the second or third book in a series, where world development had already happened to create a basis for what's going on, then things may have come out smoother. As it was, the writing felt a little bogged down with facts.

Jin portrayed all the qualities of a “Mary Sue”: He's special (not just to one or two people, but to everyone, even if it's just so they can hate him; he's powerful; he has specific physical attributes that distinguish him as different; and he's the sole focus of the story. The last I'm willing to let slide, a little, because a lot of other things do happen that revolve around him but could be considered outside events. Otherwise, he comes across as bit of a self insert, and some of his more feminine qualities made me feel like he was written as a stereotypical woman. However, these moments didn't happen all the time, which made them all the more glaring when they did.

It's difficult with main character with special powers who are the focus of the story to not come across as being Mary Sues, but it is done. However, Jin's “Mary Sue qualities” didn't detract too terribly from the story, most of the time. Usually he just came off as a little self-centered.

Requested this book for review.

Eight Seconds by Jean Ferris

2011-08-21T17:49:00.001-04:00

Eight Seconds by Jean Ferris
Stars: 4.5/5

Blurb
Each ride on the bucking bull is a lesson in pain. Each landing on the packed dirt is a jarring reminder of reality. Rodeo camp is a tough way to spend a summer, but John is having the time of his life. No clingy girlfriends, no nagging moms, no annoying sisters. Just him and the guys and the biggest bulls he's ever seen. All he has to do is stay on a bull for eight seconds. It may feel like an eternity to his aching body, but for once John feels in control of his own fate. Then he learns his new rodeo buddy Kit is gay. Shaken by the news, he tries to deal with the other guys' reactions and his own self-doubts.

Suddenly, riding a bull seems easy. . . .

Overall
This is not an easy or light reading, although it's not too heavy either. It's a nice balance of story and teenage sexuality drama. Although the topic is nothing new, I feel like the way the story was handled was fresh, making it a new and interesting story. While I really enjoyed this story, I can see some people taking issue with its not-completely-happy ending. I struggled with it myself, but I felt the decisions the author made were appropriate for the story and the lessons that John learns.

Strengths
The writing is pretty easy going, matching the character, who is pretty laid back most of the time, but has a temper when his buttons are pushed. It was straight forward and well paced and overall made for an enjoyable read.

John is a likeable character, although he is flawed (he has a temper, biases, and acts like the teenager he is). But he's still a young man struggling to deal with things in his life and he acts like many teenagers do, and has to face those consequences. I think what I liked most about him is that he never complained about things being unfair or trying to take things back (even if he wishes he could). Instead he focuses on where he's at and what he needs to do—and what he should do. There are various side characters that are nice and varied, all of whom help make John who he is. I also liked Kit, even though some of the things he did/choose were just as hard to deal with as what John did/choose.

While there are some difficult things that happen in this story, and some difficult decisions that the characters make (many of which I disagree with, personally), I really enjoyed the story with its different resolution and some of the "morals" it teaches (to the main character, but not in a preachy way). I also liked the bull riding/western environment, which fit into the story without being too heavy handed in its role.

Weaknesses
Not really a weakness, but I didn't like the ending. It was handled well, and I knew it was coming because of what I read in someone else's review, but … well, you'll have to see for yourself.

The cover that I had makes it seem like the main cast is young teens when they are actually all 18 or older. While I like the set up and the emotion behind it, I think it would dissuade younger people from reading it, which is a shame.

Tokyo Babylon vol 1-7 by CLAMP

2011-08-15T21:02:00.001-04:00

Tokyo Babylon vol 1-7 by CLAMP
Stars: 4/5

Overall
Originally I saw the anime that is based on this, and was amused, but not really impressed. However, my friends promised the manga was better and they loaned it to me. They were putting it lightly! Although the majority of the volumes are about Subaru's job putting restless spirits to peace, within the stories is the development of the relationship between Subaru, his sister, and their friend Seishiro.

Each volume only took about 45 minutes to read, as they were fast paced and interesting, not rambling on and on and on about something that the reader quickly didn't care about. While the story takes place toward what is soon to be the apocalypse, none of that is really mentioned in the series, although it does lend a darker theme to the stories.

Strengths
Aside from some of my frustrations at the end of the series (see below), I really enjoyed the storyline. Although there are plenty of Japanese cultural references, the authors do an excellent job of explaining everything as the events unfold. The individual “one shots” are interesting enough to keep the reader's attention while still progressing toward the over arching story, which unfurls rather quickly in the last one and a half volumes. The beginning works to build the characters so that the reader cares for them, making the ending all the more poignant.

Speaking of characters, I really fell in love with Subaru and Seishiro, and although Hokuto annoyed me at the beginning, even she redeemed herself. The development happens over five or six volumes mainly, although many revealing facts aren't told until the final volume. These are fun characters, and even with designs that aren't really to my liking, they were enjoyable to follow.

Weaknesses
This isn't a complete weakness, but the end frustrates me. It is concluded in some aspects, but I also know that there is more to the story, as seen in the X anime, which I will be seeing.

Dark Edge of Honor by Rhianon Etzweiler and Aleksandr Voinov

2011-08-08T07:17:00.002-04:00

Dark Edge of Honor by Rhianon Etzweiler and Aleksandr Voinov
Stars: 4.5/5

Blurb
Sergei Stolkov is a faithful officer, though his deepest desires go against the Doctrine. A captain with the invading Coalition forces, he believes that self-sacrifice is the most heroic act and his own needs are only valid if they serve the state.

Mike, an operative planted within Cirokko's rebels, has been ordered to seduce Sergei and pry from him the Coalition's military secrets. His mission is a success, but as he captures Sergei's heart, Mike is tempted by his own charade and falls in love.

When the hostile natives of the planet Cirokko make their move, all seems lost. Can Mike and Sergei survive when the Coalition's internal affairs division takes an interest in what happened in the dusty mountains of Zasidka Pass…?

Overall
In a story as gritty as the planet it takes place on, Mike and Sergei struggle with their environment, their armies, and their own feelings. While this isn't a light read, it's not overwhelmingly dark either, immersing the reader in Sergei's struggle to keep hope in what seems like a doomed situation.

The plot, the beginning of which is pretty much described by the blurb, is excellent and definitely interesting, but its the characters that, through strong writing, come alive on the page through their strengths and weaknesses. On my initial read, I had two problems with the story, which I've listed below, but upon re-reading I reconsidered these "weaknesses" and feel they were both handled well in the situation. The main issue, which I think pushed the two supposed weaknesses, was that the blurb sets up a heavy plot that doesn't start really moving until 40% of the way through the book.

That being said: The wait, and the build up to it, are worth it.

Strengths
The characters are in a difficult situation and almost constantly show their bad side, but despite this they are easy to fall in love with because even in their dark moments they struggle for love and hope (without it being as cheesy as that just sounded). Mike, who feels like the 'good guy' since he's not part of the invading army, is an interesting conflict, since while he may be on the 'good' side in the war, he's the more underhanded in the relationship. Sergei, who is part of the militaristic invasion, is almost naive in his dealings with Mike, making the good guy bad and the bad guy good, blurring the lines of there being any sides at all.

This is developed further as we meet Pat and Ulyanov and Nikishin (both of whom I want more of), who are not, on any level, flat characters. In fact, and this applies to the main characters as well, there is so much not talked about beyond a passing mention. Much of what is happening with the characters that isn't vital to the story that is only alluded to, which in its own way is frustrating, but is perfectly acceptable for the story we're being told. It's great to have a story that is bursting with history that we only get a small taste of.

Once the plot really starts, it moves quickly building off all the previous information and relationships. Details that seem insignificant are brought to light as being important without the authors seeming underhanded, misleading or sneaky. One element I enjoyed most about this story is that while it involved politics, war and star-crossed lovers (of sorts), it never relied on a sudden plot twist. What you see is what you get: This story is about the struggle of the individual and the circumstances he finds himself in.

In addition, this novel has a very attractive cover, which doesn't mean much for an ebook, but it still is worth noting, although I've noticed this publisher is better at providing appropriate and understated covers.

Weaknesses
There are two points that I think count as weaknesses, although I know the one at least was, if not on purpose, at least recognized by the authors.

The beginning of the novel is sex heavy, and then followed by the second half of the novel which is plot heavy and completely lacking sex except in moments of flashback. There are obvious reasons for this flip, the most important of which is that the plot and major amounts of sex couldn't happen at the same time, but it is slightly jarring in the switch and did leave me wanting for more plot in the beginning. I felt it was worth the wait and the sexual encounters between the two men did further the plot and character development.

There is a slight feeling of the two men falling in love rather quickly, but it was done in a way that only niggled me slightly, as Sergei hasn't really experienced someone like Mike before, and for Mike there is just something about Sergei that grabs him right from the beginning. Plus they are in a high intensity situation, which amps up both their emotions and reactions.

Requested this book for review.

Four men and a fox... Movie Reviews

2011-08-01T12:21:00.008-04:00

The Trip - It's 1973, and gay rights activist Tommy Ballenger (Steve Braun) is about to embark on the journey of a lifetime when he meets an older man, Alan (Larry Sullivan), whose political views skew as far right as Tommy's do left. In spite of their differences, they fall in love, but four years later they're torn apart when an anti-gay book Alan once wrote re-surfaces. Does their love deserve a second chance?

(rent/buy) I shouldn't be surprised when a movie turns out good, but after reading the description, I figured it would be cheesy fun, not cheesy fun that was something more. This is one of those films that some people are going to take more out of it than I did, sort of like TransAmerica (maybe road trip themes don't do it for me). The acting was good, all through the ages, and there were some well placed real clips to set the mood of the political history. While this definitely amused me in some parts and touched my heart in others, I never felt deeply moved by the characters.

Gone, But Not Forgotten - In writer-director Michael D. Akers's romantic drama, forest ranger Drew (Aaron Orr) meets yuppie Mark (Matthew Montgomery) after he falls while rock climbing. Mark wakes up in the hospital with amnesia and sees that Drew has remained by his side since the accident. Drew offers to move in with Mark to help him out until he regains his memory, which propels the two men into a passionate affair. But things change as Mark's memory slowly returns.

(meh) Everything in this movie was mediocre enough that I spent the time re-reading a book while it played in the background. Why bother? I wanted to give it a chance, even though it started off rough. It has the classic signs of a small budget film with less than savvy tech hands and actors: When the camera wasn't stationed, it wobbled and dramatic close-ups felt over used, especially in the beginning. Whether it was the acting or the script--I don't know--but everything felt slightly forced and, honestly, uninspired. The story line had potential and was actually somewhat interesting, but the stilted acting/dialogue/performance left me uninterested. When the leading men finally got together in the end, I was happy because the movie was over. Why by no means torture to sit through, it probably would have been in if wasn't multitasking.

Defying Gravity - Frat boy Griff (Daniel Chilson), who works hard to keep his brothers in the dark about his intimate encounters with Pete (Don Handfield), is forced to come to terms with his sexual identity in this touching drama. Pete, who left the frat house for a more liberating off-campus life, wants a real relationship, while Griff claims he only wants sex. But when gay-bashing thugs beat Pete into a coma, Griff must face his true feelings for him.

(rent) This was okay, although it definitely felt like a movie from the '80s (though it's from the '90s). This isn't the first time I've encountered "boy dealing with sexuality while boy he likes is unconscious," and to be honest, the other time (the book The God Box by Alex Sanchez) did it better, probably because the acting was so stiff in this movie. I had a hard time believing there were feelings between the lead males, and while I liked how Griff's best friend, and some of the frat, reacts to Griff and Pete when it inevitably is revealed, little else really stuck out to me. While this movie wasn't bad, it definitely rang with elements of amateur, especially in the acting.

I Think I Do - The marriage of mutual friends reunites former college roommates Bob (Alexis Arquette) and Brendan (Christian Maelen), who tried to ignore the sexual tension that always flowed between them. Brendan finally comes out to Bob at the reception, but is it a case of too little, too late? Writer-director Brian Sloan's romantic comedy co-stars Lauren Vélez and Jamie Harrold and features a rare cameo from Marni Nixon.

(rent) The start of this movie is a little slow as the relationship between the two men is built, creating their friendship and the sexual tension there. After the big fall out, there is a time skip in which everyone went their separate ways. Oddly enough, even though they live in different states, the group is still the core of best friends (possibly the biggest, "Wait, really?" moment in the movie, aside from the ones purposefully placed there). I felt like the plot was strong, the dialogue was pretty good, but the acting was lacking. The plot is serious, but with obvious humorous tones, both in characters (like the soap opera actor) and events (face mask before the wedding). However, the actors didn't seem to be able to handle this double play, as they played everything as straight drama, leaving a feeling that they were trying a little too hard. That aside, it was still a pretty good--if not a little strange--movie.

Fantastic Mr. Fox - When Mr. Fox's nightly raids on three nearby farms raise the ire of the selfish farmers, he must outwit the men's increasingly outrageous plans to catch him in this animated adaptation of the Roald Dahl book. As the farmers' schemes take a toll on his hungry family, Mr. Fox must find a new way to get his paws on the bounty. Wes Anderson directs, and George Clooney and Bill Murray lend their voice-over talents in this Oscar nominee.

(rent/buy) Going into this movie, I had very few expectations. I'd heard good things, in general, although I'd heard plenty of people complain about the animation style. I found the visuals a little strange at first too, but my love of foxes and general willingness to try new things meant I gave it a shot. The style grew on me the longer I sat through the film, although I doubt the style will ever catch on. The voice acting was good, and I really enjoyed the depth of the characters, who struggled with many things, the main issue focusing on the fight between being animals and creatures who try to be civilized. The plot was interesting, but strange, leading my interest to fade in and out slightly, although the escalating reactions of the humans is amusing. Because of the unique style of this movie, I would definitely recommend renting before purchasing if possible, but I think everyone should give this movie a chance.