Movie reviews

While this blog is currently still defunct/in hiatus (whichever comes first), I realized I had a bunch of entries that I hadn't yet posted, so I decided to load them in sets of five.

Kamisama Kiss - Nanami was just a normal high school girl down on her luck until a stranger’s lips marked her as the new Land God and turned her world upside down. Now, she’s figuring out the duties of a deity with the help of Tomoe, a reformed fox demon who reluctantly becomes her familiar in a contract sealed with a kiss.

(meh) This show didn’t particularly do it for me. It had nice art and men drawn in a style I appreciate, but the plot and dialogue were lacking/not of interest. Some of the side characters were fun and charming, and I would have loved to have seen more of them, but I found Nanami to be dense and uninteresting. A few of the story arches were good/had potential, but Nanami’s presence (and repeated stupidity/lovestruckness/high-schoolness) ruined it for me. I probably wouldn’t have finished the show, except for obligation and snarking at it with my friends.

LEGO Batman: The Movie - When Bruce Wayne receives the Man of the Year award, jealous fellow billionaire Lex Luthor decides to top Wayne's achievement by running for president, recruiting the Joker to create an atmosphere ripe for fear-based politics.

(rent) I wasn’t too enthused to watch this movie, so I was multitasking/not paying attention. Overall, I think it was an enjoyable/amusing flick, but it did nothing in particular to entice me to plop down and watch. I think the best part was when the rest of the superheroes arrived, but it wasn’t a bad movie, it just didn’t interest me.


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, honing in on Bible verses oft-cited as condemnatory and opening them to fresh interpretation.

(rent) This is definitely worth a watch, especially for queer or questioning Christians who need some help or support in reconciling their faith and sexuality. As someone who has read several books related to these concepts, there wasn’t a whole lot that was NEW for me, but it reinforced what I’d previously learned, phrased some things in a different light, and I think this is something that anyone with interest in Christianity and/or LGBTQ culture would enjoy watching.

Trigun: Badlands Rumble - In town surrounded by quicksand, an outlaw from Vash the Stampede’s past has resurfaced after twenty years. His name is Gasback – and he’s looking to cause a little trouble.

(rent/buy) It’s been more years than I’d like to recall since I washed the original Trigun series, but this felt like sinking right back into one of the bad-guy-of-the-week episodes. I was a little confused about where things fell in the timeline (because it’d been so long since I’d watched), but it was still very enjoyable, bringing back all those fond memories of why I need to rewatch Trigun.

For those unfamiliar with the series, this may be a good way to dip your toe in, but generally it might be best just to try the original stuff, as this takes place somewhere in the middle of the original series, so confusion may abound.

Petunia - Charlie Petunia hails from a family of neurotic New Yorkers and has sworn off sex. When he meets George, Charlie thinks he's finally found a guy worth breaking that pledge -- but their relationship hits a snag when Charlie learns George has a wife.

(rent) I’m not quite sure how to feel about this movie. It’s very odd and different, which is refreshing, and it’s quite the whirlwind. Most of the characters aren’t particularly likeable, but they aren’t ones you despise either. They’re all just real, very flawed, people. I have very mixed feelings about everything in this movie, except maybe the ending. While not completely realistic, maybe, it was very sweet and happy and still had threads of discord that felt in keeping with the realistic tone.

The Kids Are Creepy

ParaNorman - When an army of zombies invades a small town, it's up to an odd local boy with a knack for communicating with the dead to save the day. But judgmental adults prove to be even more formidable adversaries.

(rent/buy) This animated film is worth at least one watch, although it may not suit everyone. It will be just spooky enough in the beginning to make a good Halloween flick, but the creep factor doesn’t last long (so no nightmares) as it provides a heartwarming, uplifting message in the end. Although this isn’t one of the great animated films, it has a simple plot for children and lots of subtext for adults.

Velvet Goldmine - A decade after British glam-rocker Brian Slade fakes his assassination on stage and disappears from view, tabloid journalist Arthur Stuart is dispatched to deconstruct the legend of the bisexual pop star.

(rent) An odd one. My biggest complaint was the sound mixing, which made hearing dialogue difficult when the background music was more in the foreground. Obviously music played a major role in this film, but it still made it hard to follow some things. The best part, I feel, is that while Arthur is figuring stuff out, he rarely tells the viewer what is happening or explains what he figures out. The watcher has to do that on their own.

Of course, that also means that some elements of the movie may remain a mystery to the viewer, or things may be interpreted differently by the viewer, but I think that adds an element of depth to the movie.

Edge of Seventeen - A 17-year-old rediscovers his sexuality in this 1980s story about coming out and its social consequences. Eric (Chris Stafford) takes a job at an amusement park and meets Rod (Andersen Gabrych) -- but finds out too late that his crush just wants sex. He seeks consolation at the local gay bar, only to be used again. As he continues to question his sexual orientation, a female friend (Tina Holmes) volunteers to be his next partner.

(rent) This movie seemed especially long. It was a slow-progressing flick as Eric came to realizations about his sexuality. It had its up and downs and played with what felt like a lot of stereotypes (although those stereotypes are based in fact, I assume). This story definitely looks at things and makes you think, but it’s not amazing either. Kinda middle of the road. I probably would have liked it more if it moved at a quicker pace.

C.R.A.Z.Y. - There are five boys in the Beaulieu family -- Christian, Raymond, Antoine, Zachary and Yvan. But Zac (played by Emile Vallee and Marc-Andre Grondin) is the only one who's gay. That's why growing up in Montreal alongside his heterosexual brothers and his strict, emotionally distant father (Michel Cote) proves especially challenging for the blossoming outsider, who finds solace in the music of Pink Floyd, the Rolling Stones and David Bowie.

(rent/buy) This is a fairly long running movie and a tad slow, but definitely worth a watch. It’s very much a family drama, specifically focusing on a father-son relationship, but it also looks at sexuality, child rearing, love, and family. I think what’s best about this movie is that while one of the motivating factors for some of the actions is Zac’s sexuality, there is so much more at play here.

The Kids Are All Right - Joni and Laser, the children of same-sex parents Nic and Jules, become curious about their sperm-donor dad and set out to make him part of their family unit. But his arrival complicates the household dynamics.

(rent) I generally found this movie to be lacking, but I know a good portion of that is just preference. The cover of the film makes it look happy and positive, but the film itself seems to be the opposite. While there are some good takeaway messages here, there are also lots of bad behavior. It’s all very real, but it doesn’t make it into a moving movie. I was bored for a good chunk, uncomfortable with several pieces, and frustrated the rest of the time.

The only interactions I really liked was between Laser and the donor, although Joni wasn’t too bad, as she can be forgiven, since she’s young. Mostly I found the characters to be selfish, unbearable, and poor representatives of humanity. Jules, especially, irritated me, both with her actions and how it presents her as a character, specifically a lesbian. Joni’s female friend was obsessed with sex and Joni constantly called her a slut. Both traits were irritating and seemed to be trying to say something that I don’t think the film got across.

Now for a dance number.

Strictly Ballroom - Dumped by his partner just before a major dance competition, gifted hoofer Scott Hastings (Paul Mercurio) is forced to take a graceless neophyte (Tara Morice) as his new partner. But much to everyone's surprise, Scott soon turns his unpromising protégé into a topnotch dancer. Bill Hunter, Pat Thomson, Gia Carides and Barry Otto also star in this quirky, engaging tale from Aussie director Baz Luhrmann.

(rent) This is an older flick, and it’s quirky, but I definitely think it’s worth checking out. I like that the romance is present, but it slowly builds and is more an underlying niceness rather than the focal point. The lead female isn’t upset when Scott is a douchebag because he doesn’t love her (although that comes up early on), she’s upset because he’s being a douchbag. He’s going back on what he promised and he’s betraying her--as a dancer. So much of the plot is ridiculous (in a good way, I think), but their relationship is so pure and honest. It’s a great contrast to the insanity of ballroom (along with the sanity of her family and her life, which is so grounded, while his family is crazy). Fun, cute, and worth a watch.

My Neighbor Totoro - Legendary Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki provides a stunningly realistic portrayal of life in the country. When their mother is hospitalized, two young sisters spend a summer in the Japanese countryside with their father. The strange new environment turns out to be a natural wonderland filled with exotic real-life creatures and a trio of furry woodland sprites who can only be seen by children.

(rent/buy) This was an enjoyable, light, children's movie that touches upon some serious subjects but never delves too deep into the dark waters. I found the beginning to be a little slow, but once the premise was established, things picked up. It's not action-packed by any stretch, but it is a fantastic children's story exploring elements of the fantastic while staying grounded in the real world. While I imagine many little kids will not be enchanted by the lovely animation or slow story, they will be pulled in by the adventures had with spirits. Worth a watch, especially if you have kids, but even without, it's worth the hour and a half of your time.

The Big Gay Musical - When not playing leads in a musical called "Adam and Steve Just the Way God Made 'Em," Paul and Eddie act out the story of their own star-crossed lives offstage. The recently dumped Paul just wants to stay in, while Eddie is still coming out.

(rent/buy) Surprisingly awesome. I went in expecting it to be ridiculous--and it is--but it’s also a touching story about Paul and Eddie and their lives. The ending wasn’t quite what I was expecting, but it was pretty perfect. It will hit you in all the squishy love places and make you laugh (and roll your eyes) at the crazy stereotype they are playing up. And while some Christians may take offense, I imagine most the Christians following my blog won’t (although it’s obviously not meant to be taken too seriously anyway). Check it out!

It’s in the Water - A new AIDS hospice sends a tiny Southern town into a hysterical homophobic frenzy, and the locals start heeding rumors that the facility has tainted the town's water supply with something that "turns" people gay. Caught in the middle is harried wife Alex Stratton (Keri Jo Chapman), whose fling with high school pal Grace sets off more chain reactions.

(rent) This was fairly good, but not great. It has a daytime drama feel to it with the ridiculous events and the ridiculous characters, but it also has some very tender moments and some downright laughable ones. While this didn’t amaze me or blow me out of the water, it was worth the watch and I appreciated the equal access makeout scenes. Also, I love Alex’s father. I think he and the housekeeper were my favorite parts. He plays a wonderful “that’s nice dear” to Alex’s hysterical mother.

Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day - Skillfully framed by an unknown enemy for the murder of a priest, wanted vigilantes the MacManus brothers -- Murphy and Connor -- must come out of hiding on a sheep farm in Ireland to fight for justice in Boston.

(rent) Compared to the first one, the second is pitiful. The beginning humps the fan adoration of The Boys being naked, then wanders around searching for a plot and trying to re-do everything that “worked” in the first. Mostly violence and humor which, especially in this movie, wasn’t that funny. Also, in reaction to the heavy homo-eroticism of the first movie, the director decided to add as many gay jokes and homophobic comments as possible. That’s the bad.

The good is everything after ¾ of the way through. The ending brings back much of the awesome from the first movie, and there is even plot (which the beginning was supposedly building toward, but could have been truncated). Even then, the movie was made by the last two scenes, where things get more interesting and almost seems like a setup for a third movie (although I don’t see that happening after the disappointment of the second and Duffy’s bad blood in Hollywood). I only bought it because I’d forgotten how bad the beginning was and because I do love The Boys.

Oddly Normal by John Schwartz

Oddly Normal by John Schwartz
Stars: 5/5

Length: 304 pages
Blurb
A heartfelt memoir by the father of a gay teen, and an eye-opening story for families who hope to bring up well-adjusted gay adults.

Three years ago, John Schwartz, a national correspondent at The New York Times, got the call that every parent hopes never to receive: his thirteen-year-old son, Joe, was in the hospital following a failed suicide attempt. After mustering the courage to come out to his classmates, Joe’s disclosure — delivered in a tirade about homophobic attitudes—was greeted with dismay and confusion by his fellow students. Hours later, he took an overdose of pills.

Additionally, John and his wife, Jeanne, found that their son’s school was unable to address Joe’s special needs. Angry and frustrated, they initiated their own search for services and groups that could help Joe understand that he wasn’t alone. Oddly Normal is Schwartz’s very personal attempt to address his family’s own struggles within a culture that is changing fast, but not fast enough to help gay kids like Joe.

Schwartz follows Joseph through childhood to the present day, interweaving his narrative with common questions, including: Are effeminate boys and tomboy girls necessarily gay? Is there a relationship between being gay and suicide or mental illness? Should a child be pushed into coming out? Parents, teachers, and counselors alike will welcome Oddly Normal and its crucial lessons about helping gay kids –and any kid who is different -- learn how to cope in a potentially hostile world.

Overall
In a touching, educational, and surprisingly thought-provoking memoir, John Schwartz tells the story of his son--and of other LGBT youths. The focus is Joseph’s unique journey, but the author also uses his tale as a reflection of what LGBT youths, and teens in general, face. The topics include sexuality and the social atmosphere, as well as the ramifications of coming out and the statistics on gay teens (and the strength of that evidence). But Joseph’s struggles also touch upon mental health, ranging from teachers tossing diagnoses at children to the use of powerful medications on growing bodies.

Review
The tale opens with Joseph’s suicide attempt, then backtracks to the beginning—Joe’s birth. We are given a slow progression through his life, with contemplation about early signs of his sexuality and his progression through the stages of childhood. Between chapters exploring his son’s life, John provides information, sometimes on sexuality, sometimes on mental health. While he provides a wide variety of statistics, he also evaluates the quality of the data and studies that have confirmed or refuted what are often considered well-known facts.

As Joseph’s unique personality begins to be expressed, other traits begin to appear as well. While they don’t show up at home, troubling behaviors begin to occur at school, ranging from confronting authority, biting the back of his hand, and difficulties socializing. These behaviors—which vary and fluctuate year to year depending on how the teacher handles Joe—lead to conflicts with the school system, a series of therapists and counselors, and a flood of diagnoses.

While sexuality does play a key role in Joseph’s story, and in his mental health, it is the mental and behavioral health issues that become the focus. The Schwartzes are hesitant to place young Joseph on medication, especially when different therapists and psychiatrists can’t agree on a diagnosis, and so, for a large portion of the tale, Joseph faces his problems with the help of mental health professionals, both in and out of school.

The debate on whether children should be given powerful medications for their mental and behavioral health conditions is analyzed, but in some part doesn’t affect Joe until the pressure at school from his announced sexuaity build up and he attempts suicide at age 13. This thrusts him into a more intense evaluation of his problems and pinpoints one major motivating factor as depression.

Once he’s on medication for his depression (and again, there is a discussion on what medications are appropriate for children) and has resumed therapy, Joseph improves. His new out status also enables him to join the LGBT community and see that he is not as alone as he previous felt. The memoir ends with him still in high school, but it leaves him in a hopeful, happy place.

Oddly Normal is a memoir, not a self-help book, but John recognizes that the story he shares can be used to help other parents facing similar struggles. However, he is quick to point out that every child and every family will go through different experiences and overcome different obstacles. He is not trying to tell parents how to handle their child, but merely showing what he and his wife did, how it worked out, and the information he gathered along the way.

Five movies walk into a bar...

Breakfast With Scot - Eric (Thomas Cavanagh) and his lover, Sam (Ben Shenkman), are pushed into becoming temporary parents to an 11-year-old boy (Noah Bernett) with a fondness for gold chains, lace and the color pink while Eric's brother (Colin Cunningham) -- the boy's guardian -- is out of the country. Neither man ever saw himself as a father, but having such an undeniably colorful child around the house has a funny way of changing their minds.

(rent) The blurb of this movie is kind of misleading, as the real focus is Eric and Scot, their clashing personalities, and whether they can find happiness by reaching a middle ground. I was uncomfortable with this movie in the beginning, as Scot is over the top and Eric is nearly incompetent. I ended up getting through it by multitasking, but overall it was a well-done movie dealing with bullying, stereotypes, and family. The story didn’t really grab me, and I found more dynamic between guardians and child than the main couple, which made it hard to believe.

Weekend - This frank drama centers on the cautious relationship between two gay men--one a genial lifeguard, the other a lusty art-gallery worker--who contemplate turning a passionate one-night stand into something more meaningful.

(meh/rent) There was nothing particularly wrong with this movie, but it also wasn’t fantastic either. I found the accents quite pleasant, but the actors tended to mumble their lines (although this could be in part due to accent differences). It was pretty slow moving and tended toward awkward, which the description somewhat indicates. I found the end to be both hopeful and depressing. I didn’t particularly enjoy this movie, but I could see others liking the alternative feel.

Weiss Kreuz - Refined florists by day but deadly fighters by night, the Knight Hunters are led by the silent Aya Fujimiya, with temperamental athlete Ken Hidaka, computer expert Omi Tsukiyono and playboy Youji Koudo rounding out the foursome. When the sun dips below the horizon, the quartet -- also known as Weiss Kreuz -- metes out rough justice against terrorists, drug lords and other baddies who are beyond the long arm of the law.

(rent) If you’re looking for good anime, this is not it. However, it also is kinda famous among the yaoi community despite a complete lack of canon gay. The first season (described above) has a wandering, ambling story that often skips major plot points or doesn’t explain things completely (or at all). The characters are funny and the action is laughable. Also, I found the art style a little too ‘90s for me.

Season 2 (Gluhen) has a much more cohesive plot and an art style that appealed to me more. Unfortunately, large chunks of information via alternative mediums that is available to the native speakers is not available in translation, so some things are a little confusing. The plot was pretty good still, although I found the ending to be more somber than I was hoping. In some ways I liked season 1 more because I could laugh at it, although I can’t deny having actual plot was good.

Brave - Scottish princess Merida uses her archery skills to establish her independence, but when she accidentally angers the ancient land's three powerful lords and is granted a poorly conceived wish by a witch, she must go on a quest to repair the damage.

(rent/buy) First off, I felt the blurb was a bit misleading with the ‘ancient land’s three powerful lords’ bit. Not strictly a lie, but it made it sound like she pissed off ancient spirits. The plot development was so-so, as many things happened just to further the plot/action, especially things involving the spirits. To some extent it works with the somewhat mystical elements, but sometimes it was just like, “Really? Again?”

Still, this was a cute, fun-for-the-family movie. Definitely more for ‘girls’ than ‘boys,’ although there are things that will keep the boys entertained. It’s funny, well animated, has a fair amount of adventure and a soft, cuddly theme. Overall pretty enjoyable.

De-Lovely - Kevin Kline stars as the celebrated 20th-century composer Cole Porter, who looks back on his life unfolding like one of his musicals, replete with drama, suspense and joy -- at the center of which is his mercurial relationship with his wife, Linda (Ashley Judd). After meeting in Paris, the couple marries with the understanding that Porter -- who penned many hits, including "Anything Goes" and "It's De-Lovely" -- is gay.

(rent) This was a very slow moving and mellow movie and definitely isn’t for everyone. I think it’s important to go in with no expectations, as this movie doesn’t really do anything. It’s mostly just a visual biography, although I’m not sure the amount of research involved. It was interesting and had plenty of musical numbers (well timed), but it didn’t particularly move me or absorb me into the tale. Worth a viewing, but not necessarily extremely entertaining.

Khaos Komix by Tab Kimpton

Khaos Komix by Tab Kimpton
Stars: 4/5*
*Because they’re free, I’d probably bump them up to 5 stars

Length: 8 stories at 51-97 comic book pages each
Blurb
This is a comic about gender and sexuality. It follows the lives of 8 main characters: Steve, Mark, Amber, Nay, Tom, Alex, Charlie and Jamie. It’s about them finding themselves, falling in love, lust and like and how hard they fight to get there.

This comic contains so many issues I can’t even really list them. Some of the things you may find here include: Gays, lesbians, those weird bisexuals everyone is talking about, faggotry, homophobia, transgender issues, dubious consent, body issues, abuse, hate and most important of all, a big old helping of LOVE. There’s a reason I called it Khaos.

Overall
I read five of the eight stories and I loved every one of them. (The only reason I didn’t read all was I was reading them all in one night and it was getting late. And they had female protags. I know, I have my preferences in romantic settings.)

Review
All the stories cover around the same period of time, with some going longer than others. Each story takes place from the protagonist’s perspective, so even when certain events are repeated, we’re given a new look at what was going on. Not only that, but the artist is obviously aware of the repeated events and doesn’t drag them out.

In many ways this is a standard high school/college romance story. But that’s sort of what makes it amazing. You know what you’re getting. And yet you get so much more. All of the stories tell the same general time period, but they also delve into the childhoods of the main cast, so we get so much more than if we just saw the events unfold as told.

The other great thing about these stories is that we have a variety of cast members. Yes, most are gay, but there are also heterosexual couples, MTF, FTM, gay, and ambivalent. They have good pasts and bad pasts. They have shitty parents and understanding parents. They have confused families and broken families. We get a little bit of everything.

Also, if you read the tales in order, they start off pretty light and slowly venture into darker and darker territory, but because you see where things are heading, you can avoid reading the darker tales if you want. I skipped over a few of the stories (Nay, Amber, and Charlie’s) but read through Jamie’s to get the full story on almost all the characters. It was pretty intense.

So these are fun, sometimes dark, often angsty stories that are definitely worth reading. Especially as they’re free and well done (with only a few typos in the text...but it’s a comic, so I’m more forgiving).

Be sure to check out my other reviews on my blog.

Adam's Gift: A Memoir of a Pastor’s Calling to Defy the Church’s Persecution of Lesbians and Gays by Jimmy Creech

Adam's Gift: A Memoir of a Pastor’s Calling to Defy the Church’s Persecution of Lesbians and Gays by Jimmy Creech
Stars: 3.5-4/5

Length: 376 pages
Blurb
Jimmy Creech, a United Methodist pastor in North Carolina, was visited one morning in 1984 by Adam, a longtime parishioner whom he liked and respected. Adam said that he was gay, and that he was leaving The United Methodist Church, which had just pronounced that “self-avowed practicing homosexuals” could not be ordained. He would not be part of a community that excluded him. Creech found himself instinctively supporting Adam, telling him that he was sure that God loved and accepted him as he was. Adam’s Gift is Creech’s inspiring first-person account of how that conversation transformed his life and ministry.Adam’s visit prompted Creech to re-evaluate his belief that homosexuality was a sin, and to research the scriptural basis for the church’s position. He determined that the church was mistaken, that scriptural translations and interpretations had been botched and dangerously distorted. As a Christian, Creech came to believe that discriminating against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people was morally wrong. This understanding compelled him to perform same-gender commitment ceremonies, which conflicted with church directives. Creech was tried twice by The United Methodist Church, and, after the second trial, his ordination credentials were revoked. Adam’s Gift is a moving story and an important chapter in the unfinished struggle for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender civil and human rights.

Overall
An inspiring and educational telling of one religious man's journey.

Review
What I read of this was a while ago, so many of the details are fuzzy. I didn't stop because I wasn't enjoying it, but rather because I became somewhat bored with it. Part of this could be my unfamiliarity with autobiographies. He faced many struggles and he overcame as many as he could. I think if I had continued, I would have enjoyed it, but I couldn't entice myself to return to it either. It was fairly well written and interesting, at least the 60% that I read.

There are many parts of this story that would make it ideal for a religious person who was trying to understand homosexuality to read. Obviously the narrator is relatable and the reader gets to witness his progression from standard blinded individual to understanding to advocate.

In some ways this is a painful story to read because the author had to face many difficulties just because he was welcoming to homosexuals. I think it's an interesting comparison to the struggles he relates of the gay people he's known, although (as far as I read and recall) he doesn't make this connection in text. He's doing what he feels is right and while he doesn't like some of the results, he refuses to back down.

I'd definitely recommend picking this up in a library if you can find it, but this will be a must-have for only some readers.

Free Me by Brita Addams

Free Me by Brita Addams
Stars: 3/5

Length: 24,000 words (97 pages)
Blurb
Dr. Bryan Newcastle needs a respite from the grinding responsibilities of his medical practice. He's looking for someone to free his mind and body, to take him to the sexual heights his ex-lover had stifled.

On an impulse, Bryan plunks down his credit card, and commits himself to a gay, BDSM cruise that he hopes will be the answer to all his prayers.

Bryan meets Phil Sanderson, a sexual dom looking for a vacation sub. With a key card slid across the lunch table, Bryan is plunged into Phil's decadent world, where sexual submission is only the beginning of what Phil wishes to show Bryan.

Phil brings his sub to new heights, but seven days isn't enough. Will Bryan and Phil be able to return to their former lives or has Phil just started Bryan's journey to sexual freedom?

Overall
A quick love story that was plenty sexy but left me unsatisfied. Some elements may be specific to me, and if you want a steamy summer read, this could be it. Definite focus on hot...not plot.

Review
Going in, I knew this story was going to be heavier on the sex appeal and lighter on the other elements, but I still felt it was lacking. To some extent, you need to suspend disbelief, especially depending on your feelings of love at first sight (or its many incarnations). I struggled at the beginning with these two men feeling much of anything for one another above the belt, but as the cruise came to an end, I sympathized with Bryan's emotional struggles and his desire to avoid Phil in order to numb the pain.

So I could buy that they felt very intensely about one another...but the ending still left me wrinkling my nose. It felt rushed to the point of unfinished, and I couldn't buy that all the answers were given. Because there are more books with the characters, the conclusion is obviously on going, but I still felt a little side-swiped by the ending.

The characters were a little two-dimensional, but for what was being offered in this story (sexy, light BDSM), there isn't a call for deeper characters, and little of the setting provided a contrast, as the sunny ship isn't exactly ideal for broadening personalities.

Still, if you're looking for two guys who get hot and heavy with some spanking and commands, some light emotional plot, but not much else, this will be a pleasant beach read.

The Rare Event by PD Singer

The Rare Event by PD Singer
Stars: 3.5/5

Length: 350 pages
Blurb
Hedge fund trader Ricky Santeramo has it all: money, looks, and fellow trader Jonathan Hogenboom. The two couldn't be more different: Jon is from old money, while Ricky clawed his way out of blue-collar New Jersey. Jon hedges his positions; Ricky goes for broke. Jon likes opera and the Yankees; Ricky prefers clubbing. Jon drinks wine with dinner; Ricky throws back a beer. Jon wants monogamy… but Ricky likes variety. Bankrupt airlines are facing strikes, the housing market is starting to crumble, and Jon can’t wait any longer for Ricky to commit. One last night alone and one last risky trade make Jon say, “Enough.” Then Jon’s old friend Davis comes to New York City, ready for baseball and forever. The whole world is chaos, but there are fortunes to be made—or lost—and hearts to be broken—or won. Faced with losing it all, Ricky must make the savviest trades of his life and pray for a rare event. His portfolio and Jon's love are on the line.

Overall
This is a well-written, well-told story that toys with not being a romance, but ultimately harkens back to romantic roots. The focus of the story is Ricky and Jon, but much of the plot involves finances and stocks, which distracts from the romance, but is a (as far as I can tell) well-researched story of its own.

However, despite how good the financial tension is, I glossed through most of it because while it reflects on the characters and is involved in their development and actions, the details weighed down the flow of narrative, especially for one as financial disinclined as me.

I would still recommend this to readers who don't demand a 100% romance story. This has a good, elaborate (but not too overblown) plot, a great cast of characters, and the leads both learn something (although one definitely learns more...I'll let you guess who!). This story is good, but not amazing, and while worth the read, the heavy financial elements may turn many people off.

Review
There is plenty of drama happening in Ricky and Jon's life, whether it's the stocks, their 'open' relationship, or their skeevy sexual-harassment happy boss. The main conflictis Ricky's inability to be monogamous and Jon's desire to have just that from him. Running parallel in theme and relationship dynamic is Ricky and Jon's work life, where Ricky is the maverick and Jon is the secure buyer. These contrasts bring the characters head to head throughout as Jon begins realizing what he wants from life isn't what Ricky is willing to give him.

The drama is all interesting, although the financial speak is pretty heavy and, for me, interrupted the flow of action. However, I can't say that it's unnecessary, as much of the action centers around the stock market, so being given all the information helps the reader understand what was going on. My personal preference would have been for less of it, but I don't think it necessarily detracts from the novel for all readers. However, readers should go in expecting a ton of stock talk.

I think the weakest element of this novel was the role Spencer played, both historically and currently. His present role isn't bad, but I found it hard to swallow (even though I saw it coming) that he would behave as he did in the past. While highly unlikely, I suppose it isn't completely impossible, and I can understand that it was a needed force for multiple other things in Jon's life. However, it stuck out as being such, detracting from its believability.

Jon is an easy character to empathize with, as he's a generally nice guy who's in love with a man who is bit of a player. He has his faults, but they are minor. Ricky is a bit harder to like, as he's a player (although honest about it), a risk taker, and while not a bad guy, he tends to be more selfish. At times it's difficult to understand what Jon sees in Ricky, but I never questioned Jon's love for Ricky. He recognizes Ricky's faults (or at least faults as far as the relationship he wants to have goes). Their relationship and their unique development as characters drive the story, and it's a wonderful unraveling of people and their emotions.

Requested this book for review.

It's Not Shakespeare by Amy Lane

It's Not Shakespeare by Amy Lane
Stars: 3/5

Length: 178 pages
Blurb
College professor James Richards is in a rut and feeling his age. He moved to northern California to escape heartbreak and humiliation, but so far the only good thing to happen to him has been his Boston terrier, Marlowe. Then James’s toughest student sets him up with her best friend. Rafael Ochoa is worlds apart from James—chronologically, culturally, and philosophically—but he’s also beautiful, kind, and a shot of adrenaline to James’s not-quite-middle-aged heart. Together, the two of them forge a bridge between James’s East Coast sensibilities and Rafael’s West Coast casualness, but can their meeting of the hearts survive James’s lack of faith in happy-ever-after?

Overall
This sweet little tale reminded me of one of Lane's other works If I Must, mostly because of the Latino*/white pairing. It's just as wonderfully cute as that, although it has fewer kittens (but more dog), and less neurotic white guy (and more older, scared-to-commit white guy). Despite the similarities, it really is a story unto its own, and worth picking up, especially if you want a yummy snack.

Review
There isn't much meat to this story, but it isn't all candy either. It's more like a trail mix--yummy, tides you over, but doesn't completely fill you up. (I make a lot of food comparisons, don't I?)

Rafi is fun and fresh, just want James needs. (Plus he's drop-dead sexy, which, you know, doesn't hurt.) And while he's a good deal younger, he isn't looking for a sugar daddy—which is good, because James has been burned in the past from that type of relationship. Rafi seems perfect for James, and while we don't get an extensive idea about what Rafi sees in James, the reader can tell Rafi is absolutely into him and James is a decent enough guy (sweet, intelligent, although, he admits, though not in so many words, WASPish). They are a fun couple and while we don't get much of them, I think it was a good amount—enough to develop their relationship (albeit, very quickly!) and show us the conflict without dragging it on. In addition, there is a bonus story at the end which previously ran as a free story on a GoodReads group.

I had a few niggles with the main conflict, which mostly revolved around the saying of "I love you," but nothing dramatic enough to cause issue. I also felt the conflict that arises with a fellow professor was a bit odd, but again, nothing that stuck out like a sore thumb. Those were the only weak spots, and they did very little to detract from the story.

Of course the English geek in me thoroughly enjoyed the undercurrent of literature discussion/references, from James's dog's name (Marlowe) to the title of the story. It added a nice taste of James's personality to a story that is drenched with Rafi's personality and flavor (since James is discovering all the things Rafi likes).

One final thing: Some may find Rafi’s character and his family to be slightly stereotypical, but I felt it was just portraying one family who happened to be slightly more traditional. It didn’t bother me, and it may not bother most, but for sensitive readers, it may be worth investigating further.

Cute, enjoyable snack, worth the calories!

*(If Latino isn't the right word, tell me, as I suck at getting Latino/Hispanic/Etc right! But I think Latino is right here, as I know one is Mexican, and I think one is Puero Rican, but I can’t recall.)

Submission (Deviations #1) by Chris Owen and Jodi Payne

Submission (Deviations #1) by Chris Owen and Jodi Payne
Stars: 3.5/5

Length: 244 pages
Blurb
Tobias is a skilled Dom, able to bring even the most hesitant submissive around. Noah is a man in need of just that. He wants to sub badly, but has yet to find someone he believes can take him where he needs to go. Through a series of encounters in the world of bondage and discipline, Noah reveals why he has trouble trusting, why he needs such a firm, steady hand. Tobias may allow himself to dominate, but he has trouble letting himself love. Still, Tobias can't resist Noah's charms, and the two of them set about making a scene for themselves, one that works for them and their unique set of problems. They learn to love, but can they stay together while they explore each others' secrets, in a world where all is laid bare and emotions run high?

Overall
A good exploration of the psychological and emotional elements of BDSM, this novel shows the beginning relationship of two men who are both familiar with the scene but are approaching each other carefully because of previous experiences. One of my biggest complaints is that due to it being part of a series exploring BDSM, there isn't that much character or relationship resolution, as obviously it needs to build over the rest of the novels as well. That being said, for what it is, this is a good story and I enjoyed the psychological elements that develop between the two men, even if I ultimately was left somewhat unsatisfied.

Review
Tobias and Noah are an interesting pair that both bring something--good and hard--to the relationship. Despite both having some issues, it very much feels from their first interaction that these two men are meant to go together, whether just for the kinks or for love too. Because of this, and fighting against my overall mediocre feelings about the book, I do want to continue the series to see how they progress. Of course, with a backlog of books to read, it's hard to justify continuing a series that doesn't earn a higher rating from me.

On the other hand, the kink was well done, sexy without being porny, almost educational, and patient, if that makes sense. While sex is involved, the focus is on the psychological and emotional development of the characters--especially Noah--and how Tobias gives him what he needs as a Sub. They cover a variety of kinks (bondage, paddling, role play), but nothing is too hardcore, maybe because this is the first book, maybe because Tobias doesn't want a pain sl*t.

For how long this novel is, not much happens. Obviously part of it is the lengthy scenes that develop the relationship and character, but even that is a slow progression. It wasn't a hard read or a boring one, but it wasn't a page turner either, as there was no suspense as to what was going to happen--although it could be that the suspense is stretched more tamely over multiple books. The end doesn't feel like a huge resolution or end, again linked to the fact this is a series, and enough was left hanging that it raised a brow, but for readers already planning to read the entire series, this won't be an issue.

Gambling Men: The Novel by Amy Lane

Gambling Men: The Novel by Amy Lane
Stars: 3.5/5

Length: 220 pages
Blurb
Quent Jackson has followed Jason Spade's every move in business and in poker since their first day as college freshmen. Eight years later, when Jace finally decides Quent is the one man he can't live without, he sees no reason for that to change.

But as much as Jace believes that poker is life, no one gave Quent the same playbook. After their first passionate night, the real game of love and trust begins, and Jace has been playing alone too long to make teaching the rules easy. Jace only speaks two languages: one of them is sex, and the other one is poker. Between the two, he needs to find a way to convince himself to take a chance on love—and Quent to take a chance on him. It's a lucky thing they’re good at reading the odds, because they’re playing for keeps, and this is one high-stakes relationship that's definitely worth the gamble.

Overall
If I ever need an upper, I turn to an Amy Lane book, and Gambling Men was no exception. This book is a bit different from some romances in that usually a good chunk of the story is the characters meeting and slowly coming together, or coming together for the first half and then dealing with issues the second half. Instead, our two leads have been long-time friends and in the first chapter they hook up in the most carnal definition of the word, and a relationship blooms from there.

I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, how much fun they have with one another, and each admission of love that Quent had to pull from Jase every so many chapters. Since I, like Jase, enjoy the hunt, I felt the building of the relationship went slow for me, but ultimately it left me satisfied and I trusted Lane to lead me to the right place. She did not disappoint. Lane fans and readers who want something soft (with hard edges) and frequent bubbles of joy should definitely pick this up.

Review
While this is a good books, I didn't enjoy it as much as other Lane books, primarily due to the focus of the story being on the continuously developing relationship. Although that isn't a bad setting, it did make the story movement slow (for me). It didn't drag, per se, but because there was little propulsion, the plot ambled along with the characters, motivated by small jumps and lurches. Because of this I think the story would work well for a beach read--picking it up at leisure, since you don’t have to tear yourself away from it to go enjoy something else.

Along the same vein, this story almost feels like a series of long vignettes, where we experience highlights of these two men's relationship. Of course in this case the tales all tie together into one story, but there isn't really a climactic moment or primary struggle. Instead they are just two men dealing with their relationship and trying to get over the personality traits that can make relationships difficult. Again, not a bad thing, but not terribly riveting either.

The dance between these two men and their incessant poker references is sweet, cute, adorable, frustrating and overall the best parts of the book. Sometimes I wanted to smack one of them (mainly Jase), and tell him to stop being a twerp, but for the most part I was charmed by them, even when Jase is being an idiot. Because despite his habit of making things harder than they need to be, it's obvious he's struggling not to be a jerk about things and it's only the behavior of a scared little boy coming out in the shape of a grown man.

There's a wonderful family theme in this story, both blood and created, and the group of friends that surround Quent and Jase is funny, and they are supportive of the two men, even when making snide comments. It felt realistic because they weren't perfect, they had some problems, they dealt with them, they overcame things and failed in others. All the supplementary cast was well applied and a nice complement to the story as a whole.

Mind Magic by Poppy Dennison

Mind Magic by Poppy Dennison
Stars: 3.5/5

Length: 200 pages
Blurb
Magical species must never mix. According to the rules, Simon Osborne should ignore the children’s cries for help. After all, they’re werewolf cubs, and he’s an apprentice mage. But for once in his life, Simon breaks the rules and rescues the cubs, saving them from a demon intent on draining them of their magic.

Of course, all actions have consequences, and Simon’s bold move earns him the displeasure of his peers and the attention of the cubs’ alpha, a man named Gray Townsend.

The last thing Gray needs is a mage in his life, but Simon did save his son. Since Simon is now a friend of the pack, Gray doesn’t have much choice about it—or the forbidden attraction that goes along with it. Unfortunately for the alpha, he needs Simon’s help to track down the demon behind the kidnappings—before it strikes again. Simon and Gray must join forces to protect the pack, even as they struggle to resist the temptation that threatens to destroy them both.

Overall
I've been in bit of a reading slump lately, and after reading a few short stories that re-inspired my faith in books again, I decided to put aside the book I was struggling with to read Mind Magic. What's nice about this piece is that it's a shorter novel, it's a quick read, and it has a pleasant set of characters. There is an interesting plot line that motivates all the characters, and there are enough tiny twists to keep the reader interested without feeling like the author is lying or purposefully misleading. However, the story also has a sense of being unfinished, as there are plenty of dangling questions that never get answered--and unless there is a sequel, I doubt there will ever be answers. In some ways the novel recognizes that (one character says "We may never know what really happened"), and while I can respect that life doesn't always have neat answers, part of me wanted more.

Still, I'm overall pretty happy with this piece, and despite some slight niggles, I was never pushed out of the story or unhappy with things.

Review
We are introduced to our leading mage when he rescues some were-kids from a demon, throwing us straight into the fire. This nice pace of action and intrigue holds through the rest of the novel as the more the characters figure out, the more questions that seem to arise. This works well to keep the reader guessing just enough, although it also means that there are plenty of questions unresolved by the end. Still, the hangers aren't head-crushing and they are cope-able, although for readers who like neatly wrapped endings, this could be a deal breaker.

Now, I'm a fan of soul mates, which shifter stories tend to be rife with, but this has a nice change of pace in that there are mates, and the shifters are very serious about mates, but it's not a sudden I-know-you're-my-mate-now type thing. I think this worked in the story as it opened up potential for distrust and uncertainty, but also allowed the feelings to come naturally between them. On the other hand, keeping this in mind, the progression of their relationship felt rushed as they fall into bed (err, the floor). On some levels it makes sense--physical attraction, not much sexual relief, and, at least on one end, a possessive, protective spirit. Still, their abrupt sex left me feeling like the story without instant-mates suddenly has instant-mates. Minor niggle, but enough to earn an eye roll.

Despite a main character's descriptive name, Gray, the characters were a nice bunch. Most of the werewolves blend into the background as general pack, but Gray's son Garon, a wolf from another pack, and a later character are both very interesting and add some nice flavor to the story. I could see potential for one or more getting their own tale told and being given their happy endings, although Garao would have to age up some. The sense of family among the pack felt real, both in being distrustful of strangers and in protecting their own...and in welcoming new family. The sense of family, belonging, and groups plays a pivotal role in the underlying depths of the story, and it's definitely worth paying attention to who does what magic and how those groups behave toward one another.

The plot itself was explored enough to resolve the major conflict, even if I still have plenty of questions. I enjoyed the slow reveal, and while some things aren't a complete surprise, others are, creating a nice mix. Wanting to know what happened next was my biggest push to keep reading, and I'd probably re-read this story just to see everything unfold again.

Finally, the perspectives are limited to Simon and Gray, mainly sticking to their perspectives for large chunks of time. However, there is some leniency in flipping back and forth (if only for a moment) in scenes, and other times when we get brief glances into other characters. They are never deep thoughts and it could be the PoV character is thinking that the other person is thinking that, but it was a little wiggley.

Requested this book for review.

An Angel's Soul by SL Armstrong K Piet

An Angel's Soul by SL Armstrong K Piet
Stars: 3/5

Length: 30 pages (12,000 words)
Blurb
Cole had everything: a great education, his own company, money, and Daniel, his lover since college. But in gaining everything, he lost the one thing he'd been building that life for: Daniel. Now that Daniel has moved on, Cole is without direction or purpose. Turning to alcohol and drugs to fill the void left behind, Cole dives head first into a downward spiral, unaware that there is another who loves and cares for him.

As Cole's guardian angel, Raziel has watched Cole since birth, and his love for his ward is deep and abiding. Witnessing Cole's fraying life breaks Raziel's heart, and when the thread that binds them together wavers during an overdose, Raziel breaks all the rules just to keep Cole alive. The consequences are unthinkable, but a life without Cole is a loss that Raziel simply can't conceive. An angel's soul was made to love, after all, and if he saves Cole, perhaps he can show Cole how the end of one great love doesn't mean another waits patiently for him.

(Part of the Goodreads M/M Romance Group's Love is Always Write event.)

Overall
A well done, if somewhat typical, tale of a guardian angel falling in love with his charge. This was obviously working within the constraints of a short story, and to some extent Cole's feelings toward Raziel felt a little forced, but this could be because we see so little of them together, but Raziel’s reasoning for why Cole feels the way he does makes sense as well. Still, I would have liked to have seen more of Cole's struggles and surprise at his feelings toward Raziel.

Most of my issues with this story are personal peeves, and I think in general many readers will enjoy it. Cole seems to have so much going for him in life, but losing the one thing that meant the most to him is something he can’t seem to bounce back from. His struggle to accept Raziel and begin to open up and trust, and love, another being is a wonderful exploration of the heart.

The other pet peeve (I seem to have so many!) I had with the story, is that they immediately have anal sex. This pure being who has seen a lot, sure, has his first sexual experience as anal sex. From kissing to anal. It seems unlikely, and rubs me the wrong way a bit. Not that Cole isn't wonderfully tender and not that Raziel doesn't want it (oh, he does!), but still. In addition, while I understand that the angels are male because it's M/M romance (and many are traditionally portrayed as such), I have to wonder at the inclusion of an anus. They don't eat, why would they need one? They don't need to digest, so why? Obviously it's there for the same reason the penis is.

Despite the above, I did enjoy the story and it's definitely worth picking up!

The War at the End of the World by Heidi Belleau and Violetta Vane

The War at the End of the World by Heidi Belleau and Violetta Vane
Stars: 4/5

Length: 26 pages (10,000 words)
Blurb
September, 1941.

War correspondent Joseph Byrne has been cheating death all his life, ever since he spent two years in an iron lung as a boy diagnosed with polio. In the years since, the Fetch, a strange being charged by Death with collecting Joseph and transporting him into the unknown, has been condemned to watch and wait.

Now, with Joseph working in a Finland caught in a tug of war between Nazi and Soviet forces, it seems a foregone conclusion that the Fetch's sentence is at its end and Death will have Joseph for her own at last. Joseph, an openly Jewish American, has no doubt where his allegiance lies, no matter the danger. But after all these years at Joseph's side, watching him overcome adversity to grow into a brave and principled young man, the Fetch has come to realize that there are forces stronger and so much sweeter than even the purpose you were made for.

(Part of the Goodreads M/M Romance Group's Love is Always Write event.)

Overall
These two authors always take me for a ride, never knowing if I'm going to like the ending, but never disappointing, even if they break my heart, and this is no exception. This is a refreshingly different story that takes place during WWII mainly, but in Finland rather than the standard locations. Once again Belleau and Vane bring the supernatural into a mundane world, creating something terrible and beautiful that leaves an impression.

This is a very different love story, as we are trapped in the perspective of a guiding spirit that is meant to gather the souls of the dying and take them to death. But the one we are in has been delayed from his purpose and again and again is unable to take the life of his charge. It's a moving, sad, painfully tender tale as he struggles with knowing his duty and knowing they are running from death, but unwilling to cause suffering to Joseph. The end is beautiful and a little painful, but ultimately satisfying.

Jungle Law by SL Armstrong and K Piet

Jungle Law by SL Armstrong and K Piet
Stars: 3/5

Length: 27 pages (11,000 words)
Blurb
There is a rainforest in India that the wise poachers avoid. Few who venture in ever return, and those that do rarely come back all the way. The leopards in this forest have a protector who walks the worlds between leopard and man, but who calls the leopard kin and the human only enemy. When a frightened boy escapes from the latest hunting party to feel the protector's wrath, he tracks the boy down, determined to leave no survivors. But when he comes fact-to-face with the exotic, defenseless boy, he cannot bring himself to end that life. Instead, what he has reviled for years becomes his constant companion. That is, until the humans dare to set foot in his forest once more.

Overall
First off, I was sold when a few pages in the authors used "female peafowl." True they could have gone with peahen, but maybe they didn't want to confuse readers. Anyway, that was a giant bonus in my big book of geek.

The writing felt a little stiff to me, but this is probably an attempt to capture the narrator's voice. Not that he's dumb, but he's more concrete in his thoughts, being as he's more in touch with his animal side. This bothered me a little, but not enough to disrupt my enjoyment of the story, which felt a little like The Jungle Book meets Beauty and the Beast. A nice combo. It's interesting that we never see from Deshi's perspective, since he may be the easier to relate to, and probably the more sympathetic character (not that Kaanan isn't a nice guy). Instead we are left to see things from Kaanan's perspective as he stumbles through understanding his little human.

A bit too much sex for me, but I know I'm biased. Still, everything was well done, and while shifters are a very popular (maybe too popular) choice, we get a slightly different feel with this shifter who lives in the wild and thus doesn't confront many of the "issues" that normal shifter story's deal with.

In All Your Ways by Cari Z

In All Your Ways by Cari Z
Stars: 4/5

Length: 26 pages (10,000 words)
Blurb
During Heaven's rebellion, the angel Renat fell to Hell for loving the angel Emiel more than God. His punishment was harsh: he became a demon. Millennia later, Renat has long given up hope on ever reuniting with his love, finding what little pleasure can be found in the lands of the damned. He's shocked when an angel is found at the borders of Hell, and he quickly realizes that Emiel has finally followed him into Hell. Renat knows he will have to fight to keep Emiel from being torn from him, and the only one who can save them is Satan himself.

Overall
A story about angels--especially fallen--are right up my alley, so within the first few lines, I felt pretty secure that this story was going to get a good rating from me. That being said, a poorly written or formulated story with fallen angels that screws up still won't satisfy! However, this story is equal parts heartbreaking and sweet, with Renat's struggle as he loves Emiel and is rejected--by him and by God--and is cast down into Hell.

While the idea of some of the fallen angels being cast out because of loving another more than God is not new, it also fits within the 'doctrine' that has become popular regarding the angels and the fall. There are a lot of religious implications in this story that fit with Christian themes (while others are arguably outside that realm), with the more modern forgiving God and the angrier cast-out-the-angels God. There is also a wonderful theme of "fulfilling God's role," which is somewhat horrifying, but also kind of nice. The way all these different threads come together make a wonderful tapestry, creating a short, poignant story within a colorful world that leaves room for further exploration while also satisfying the reader's wants.

All the characterizations were well done, from angry Lucifer to the forgiving glimpse of Morning Star that we see; the sex was erotic but not too sexualized (hey, these are angels we're talking about!); and the story has a satisfying closing. An all around well-done piece.

Blush by Kimberly Gardner

Blush by Kimberly Gardner
Stars: 2.5/5

Length: 70 pages
Blurb
Once Vinn might have believed that vampires were nothing but legend and myth. But when his life is threatened by a legend, it takes a myth to save him.

Overall
Fair to middling writing, this story is classical vampire and thus somewhat unoriginal in its telling. Evil vampire wants young thing's blood, good vampire must protect him, even if it will cost him his life. That said, it was a fairly enjoyable story with some sexy times.

Review
Despite the resolution of the major points in the plot, there were some gaping holes by the end of the story. The role of Vinn's professor seems to be broached and then cast aside with no real purpose aside from reiterating the positives of the bloodstone (for both the reader and Vinn, but if you can't trust what your vampire boyfriend has to say about it, who can you trust?). Her involvement for that one scene seems to indicate an importance that is never really played out, despite raising several questions.

Another problem I had was the ending, which seems to be saying something different than the previous scene would indicate was going to happen. While the end result can be guessed from the beginning, I felt jarred by the juxtaposition between what was said and what happened. Plus the ending felt tagged on in a too-happily-ever-after way. Cutting the last scene would have left the reader hanging, but would have felt like an appropriate ending to me.

Travis is a nice addition to the story, a considerate friend offering good advice that Vinn listens to (mostly). He's also a good knowledge source later in the story as everything falls apart.

This story mainly serves as a sex-centric story with an overall plot and classic vampires. Readers looking for this type of story will find an enjoyable nugget, but otherwise there isn't much meat here.

Four short stories

 

Roadside ASSistance by Evan J. Xavier
Stars: 2/5

Length: short story
Blurb
An evening out with friends turns into an extraordinary evening of wildly erotic sex when Chris Saturday’s truck breaks down on the way home. He couldn’t have asked for a more equipped tow truck driver, or one so driven to please him.

Rain, mud and two libidos in overdrive create an unimaginable heat in the midst of a downpour.

WARNING: Explicit erotic hot gay sex.

Overall
I'm not sure if this crosses into the line of so bad it's good, but it definitely gives a run for its money. This leaves behind erotica (which should have some sense of artistry in the writing) and becomes porn, with the cheesy setting and the bad dialogue.

Only pick this up if you want a laugh. Two of my favorite lines:

...he placed my dick into his mouth as if it were a harmonica.
The author doesn't seem to understand how a harmonica is played. Dude, you're doing it wrong....in so many ways.

"You taste like honey," he said.
Poor choice of words when talking about cum, but no, he's talking about eating the guy's ass out. Which, even if he was clean as a whistle (and since it's romance/erotica/porn, we'll assume he is), wouldn't taste like honey. But hey, maybe he did. Nomnomnom?


Bad Cupid by AD Cooper
Stars: 2.5/5

Length: 4,200+
Blurb
Cupid—or Eric, as he prefers to be called while on Earth—is exhausted after two weeks straight of pairing people up in time for Valentine’s Day, and decides to take the night off on Valentine’s Day for some well-deserved R & R. After one too many drinks, he decides to seduce the guy he’s been chatting with for fun. What’s the worst that could happen, right?

All Gabe wants to do is to drown himself in liquor to numb his broken heart after he finds out that his boyfriend has been cheating on him. He isn’t looking for a rebound but when the cute guy sitting next to him begins to tempt him with that lithe body while whispering naughty things into his ears, Gabe decides to teach him a lesson he won’t soon forget.

Overall
This is porny, but still kind of cute. Cupid is feeling down on Valentine's day and comes across a sexy man who gives him everything he wants (in bed, at least). The dialogue leaves a lot to be desired, but it's pretty much just a one-off, so you can't expect too much. Some light bondage and "naughty boy" talk. Not worth buying, but if you are in the mood and can get it free (I got it free off Amazon), then be prepared for an eye-roll.



Pole Star by Josephine Myles
Stars: 3/5

Length: 34 pages
Blurb
Injured pole dancer Matt Lovell meets attractive radiographer Sal when he’s in casualty for an x-ray. Trouble is, Matt’s firefighter outfit is pretty convincing, and the longer he keeps up the pretence the harder it will be to reveal the naked truth: that there’s nothing underneath his costume but a sequined thong!

Overall
This is a cute little free short that doesn't have much to it, but is worth reading for its price. Just a nice little fun read that has a similar ending. I think my favorite part are the patterned boxers...



Back Alley Sex by Evan J. Xavier
Stars: 1/5

Length: short story
Blurb
At one of Vegas’ sexiest clubs, where everyone cums for a good time, Ian discovers he’s caught the eye of one smokin’ hot dude. When an old flame tries to get more than just the music pumping, Ian decides he’d rather test out the heat he’s been feeling from the new guy in town.

Overall
This was not only mostly forgettable, it was very dark as well with some weird relationships going on, a player lead, and a stumbling man who turns out to be the kind to take what he wants. (Yep, this has a rape [or at least rape-ish] scene, which I did not expect.) This ends with a cliffhanger, either to encourage the reader to buy the rest of the series, or because it's the end of the story...it's unclear. Not worth picking up.

Complete Faith by Sue Brown

Complete Faith by Sue Brown
Stars: 3/5

Length: 240 pages
Blurb
Sequel to Morning Report

For Tommy Bradley, a hand working on the Lost Cow Ranch in rural Texas, admitting his sexuality is impossible, even if his bosses, Luke and Simon, are gay—Tommy has spent his entire life hiding the truth from his homophobic parents. Then Tommy meets pastor Noah Taylor in Luke’s father’s hospital room, and his difficult secret becomes that much harder to keep.

Noah is unlike any man of God—or any man—Tommy’s ever met. For one thing, his congregation is made up primarily of GLBT individuals and their families. For another, he isn’t afraid of the attraction he feels toward Tommy, and he makes his intentions very clear. But Noah won’t hide his sexuality or his love from the world, and he won’t start a relationship with Tommy while Tommy hides his, either. Faced with the choice of losing Noah or coming out to his parents, Tommy takes his first steps out of the closet.

But Tommy isn’t the only one facing challenges. Thanks to an outpouring of hatred from Pastor Jackson and a group of ranch owners, Noah must cope with the possible loss of his church and his livelihood.

Overall
A nice cowboy story that fits in all the standards while introducing some new elements. Lovers of cowboy/rancher tales will probably like this, but I think I may be a little exhausted on them, although having the pastor in the story did shake things up. I didn't read the first in the series, but aside from not having any character history, I didn't think that diminished my enjoyment.

Review
Although it's a perfectly enjoyable novel, I found everything to be generally rather forgettable. Gay ranchers in Texas having to deal with the backlash, a young kid coming out to his conservative parents, and the hard work of farm life Of course, this means that all these elements will get your crank if you look for cowboy stories. For me it felt mostly uninspired, although Noah's role (as a gay black pastor), added a nice flair.

There were some parts of the story (one in particular) that added a sense of adventure and excitement, but didn't really seem to further the plot any, except to--maybe--build character relationships. I wouldn't have minded this so much if it didn't feel like one of the major plot points mentioned in the blurb wasn't rushed at the end. I would have liked to have seen the confrontation between Noah and Jackson happen a little earlier so it could be fleshed out more, although if Brown is planning on having another book in the series (which I'm guessing she would), then she may expect the development to happen then.

I liked Noah and Tommy, but I also felt that so many things were happening around them that it detracted from them as the focus of the story. Also, there were a lot of sexual situations that were hinted at but never came to fruition or weren't really given any room to play. Again, these may be elements Brown plans on exploring in later books, but as the reader of this book, I felt shorted. Not that I felt it needed to be central in the story, but it's a pretty big thing and it just sort of gets pushed to the side.

Generally a well-written, enjoyable novel, but it had some weaknesses for me that hurt the enjoyability. Definitely not a bad read and it's worth picking up for all those cowboy lovers out there!

Requested this book for review.