Dare to Believe by Dana Marie Bell

Dare to Believe by Dana Marie Bell
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Short Story (135 pgs)
Other: M/F, BDSM, Anal Sex/Play
Rating: Best Book
Review by Holly

He’ll fulfill her wildest fantasies… but only if she believes.

The Gray Court, Book 1

Leo Dunne has been searching his entire life for the one person born just for him. He finds her working in his own company, but the shy little Ruby Halloway constantly hides from him. He hatches a devilish plot with her best friend to bring her out of her shell, and the result proves her desire is more than a match for his own.

Ruby has had the hots for her boss for some time now, but she knows business and pleasure shouldn’t mix. While that can’t stop a girl from dreaming, she sticks by her guns and does her best never to be alone with the handsome CEO. Until the company masquerade party, where she discovers a passion with him that leaves a mark on her soul.

A family emergency calls Leo away, and rather than spend one night out of Ruby’s arms, he convinces her to go with him. With his brother’s life on the line, it’s vital she learn how to deal with who, and what, her new lover really is…before it’s too late.

Warning: This book contains explicit sex, graphic language, some violence, a bit of bondage, and a Sidhe Lord determined to claim and protect what is his.

Leo Dunne has met his soul mate. Ruby Halloway has been fighting her attraction to her utterly gorgeous boss since the first time she saw him. After all, she doesn’t look like the tall, model-thin blonds he’s seen with. But things are not always as they seem, and Leo is determined to have Ruby for his own, forever. And with Leo, forever is a very long time. But before he can convince Ruby of his intentions, Leo is called home to deal with his younger brother’s kidnapping. Can he convince Ruby that his intentions are honorable, after one incredible night of the best sex Ruby has ever had? Throw in the little detail that Ruby is human, and everyone else is something more than human -- fae, leprechaun, vampire -- and it starts to get really interesting.

Dare To Believe is the first book in Dana Marie Bell’s new Grey Court series. The world that she has created is full of life, love and magic, with just a bit of danger thrown in. The characters are well drawn and three dimensional. I love the strength she gives Ruby, and also her smart mouth. Ruby doesn’t know she’s supposed to fear these beings, so she doesn’t. The images of the fantasies that Ruby and Leo indulge in are colorful and imaginative, and so much fun to visit. I loved how Ruby started out so insecure, but was able to hold her own by the latter part of the story. The cast of characters-Jaden, the “good” vampire, Duncan, brother of the evil fae who wants Leo, and of course Leo’s whole family are beautifully and quite ingeniously created.

I look forward to many more visits with the family and friends of Ruby and Leo, and I wholeheartedly recommend Dare to Believe to anyone who wants to take a short vacation from reality.

Caeser’s Mercy of Love by Penny Ash & Jade Morrison

Caeser’s Mercy of Love by Penny Ash & Jade Morrison
Publisher: Phaze Books
Genre: Contemporary, Historical, Paranormal, Fantasy
Length: Short Story (129 pgs)
Other: M/F
Rating: 4.5 Cherries
Review by Magnolia

Two Caesars, two loves, two incredible romances.

Caesar's Love: Laurentius Caesar has everything a man could want: power, prestige, and the admiration of all. He lacks only love, something the old soothsayer promised would be his. But he hasn't found it yet and he's growing impatient, until a chance meeting with one of his house slaves, Auriel.

Having known only the life of a servant, Auriel is surprised and not all that pleased with her new role as Caesar's lover. Men like Caesar are dangerous and all Auriel wants is to stay alive.

Is Laurentius' love strong enough to erase their differences?

Mercy of Love: Digging for buried Roman treasure, archeologist Athena Preston finds more than she bargained for when an ancient ruby ring is found. Slipping the ring on her finger, Athena wakes to find herself staring into the intense eyes of Quintus Caesar himself. Caesar demands an explanation for why the beautiful servant is wearing his ring; an explanation Athena is at a loss to provide him.

With her life at stake, Athena seduces the young ruler, winning not only his heart, but his trust as well. Captured by time, and the Caesar’s love, Athena is no longer certain she wants to return to her world. However, as a scholar she knows the time of Quintus Caesar’s assassination - and it's only days away. Should she save the man she loves and risk changing the course of history?

Lives will never be the same, but will love survive the centuries?

This book is written in two parts. The first, Caeser’s Love, is the story of Laurentius Caeser, emperor of Rome and is set in the days when Rome was a ruling power. Sex, subterfuge and scandal is the backdrop for the romance between Caeser and a slave girl named Auriel. But love doesn’t come easily, even for an Emperor. When Caeser learns his lover, Tacita, has been having an affair with a gladiator, he decides to have one of his own, and Auriel is the perfect woman. Having sex with a slave girl will surly put Tacita in her place while also humiliating her. Tacita isn’t one to take things sitting down, and her traitorous heart sets out to even the score. Though tragedy follows, this is a very sweet, charming, happily ever after romance that shouldn’t be missed.

In the second part, Mercy of Love, the story continues with Quintus Caeser, a descendant of Laurentius, and then jumps forward to a modern day archeological dig. Athena Preston and her class of archeology students are on a dig in Slovenia, where an ancient Roman wall has been found, and when she finds the ring of Quintas Caeser, Athena finds herself transported back to Quintas’ time.

This love story is compelling and interesting, and I liked the way the author was able to jump back and forth from one time to another to tell this story.

Don’t miss Caeser’s Mercy of Love. This is why we read romance and you’ll be glad you did!

Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Crystal Jordan

Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Crystal Jordan
Publisher: Samhain Publishing Ltd.
Genre: Paranormal, Contemporary
Length: Short Story (51 pgs)
Other: M/F
Rating: 4 Cherries
Review by Tiger Lily

Love can drive you over the edge. It can also let you fly.

An In The Heat of the Night story.

Pixie Parthon worked hard to make her music production company a success. Anyone who gets in her way gets the business end of her Fae magic. Her savvy business sense kept her family afloat for years, but now that her musician brother is mated and off on a world tour she’s feeling left in the dust.

Maybe it was a faint wish for a little love magic for herself, but she didn’t expect one night of cutting loose to leave her marked for life. A little love bite is one thing. Give up her hard-won independence to a pushy alpha werewolf? She’ll pass.

Malcon is just as shocked as Pixie, but for a different reason. From the moment he saw her, his desire went far beyond getting into her pants. When she agreed—begged—to be bitten, he believed she also sensed their destiny to be mates.

Now it’s too late. Nothing will convince Pixie that he has no intention of clipping her wings—not even a month’s worth of orgasms on call. Crazy as it sounds, love is all he wants from her. Even if it means letting her go…

Warning: Dirty wolf on fairy love, semi-orgasmic dance scenes, fully orgasmic biting of mates, Alpha males and women who are willing to smack them with fairy dust when they get out of line. Oh, and some hot anal sex. You’re welcome!

He’s determined to win her affections – on his terms. She’s determined to stay cool - except that his terms aren’t that evil. He’s darned irresistible. But that’s what happens when a Crazy Little Thing Called Love gets involved.

Ms. Jordan’s novella is punchy and full of spark. I loved reading about Pixie and Malcon. I love a story involving two characters who can’t be more different yet have a few things in common, like their attraction to each other. I liked riding the wave of frenzy when they first get together to the heartfelt ending.

This story contains a strong hero. Malcon is the alpha of his werewolf clan. He unites in a sea of division. He’s strong when the rest of the world wants to fall into chaos. It’s sexy to read about a man whose soul mission is to win the love of his woman while keeping his dignity intact.

Pixie, though a bit headstrong and frustrating in her determination to stay independent, is a great heroine. She’s strong. She knows what she wants and how to get it until she’s got the one man she needs right in her sights. But the reader can identify with that theory: the one that got away. She doesn’t know what she’s got until he could be gone. It’s a powerful idea and can lodge itself in the heart of the reader.

Although the plot was a bit thin on action, the gravity of the romance between Pixie and Malcon made up for it and made the story memorable.

If you want a fun and sexy story involving a werewolf and one of the Fae, then Crazy Little Thing Called Love is the novella for you. I give this story 4 cherries.

Don’t Look Back by Josh Lanyon

Don’t Look Back by Josh Lanyon
Publisher: Loose Id
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short Story (125 pgs)
Other: M/M, Anal Sex
Rating: 4 Cherries
Review by Cactus

He was chuckling, a deep, sexy sound as he pushed Peter back on the satiny cushions. Was this for real? Was he going to go through with it? Peter blinked up as his tie was unfastened, tossed aside, his shirt unbuttoned, laid wide. The evening breeze -- scented of smog and jasmine -- felt cool against his overheated skin, like the lightest breath…

Peter Killian, curator at Constantine House in Los Angeles, wakes in the hospital to find himself accused of stealing a tenth century Chinese sculpture. Peter knows he’s not a thief -- but that’s all he knows. Why is hot and handsome Detective Mike Griffin so sure he’s guilty -- and so hell-bent on seeing Peter arrested?

And why is Peter having these weird dreams about an unseen lover who somehow reminds him uncomfortably of Michael Griffin?

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices, violence.

What better time to re-prioritize your life than when suffering from amnesia? Peter has made some bad choices but lucky, or unlucky, for him he can’t remember most of them. When he wakes up in a hospital, Peter suffers from amnesia and can’t remember most of his friends. Little by little his memory returns but he is thrown into a whirlwind of confusion as a police detective is building a case against him. Everything Peter thinks he knows about himself seems to contradict with his surroundings and more questions start to plague him. Who is the true Peter and what is that man capable of?

Fans of the author will enjoy this darker, easier story from Lanyon. The plot is predictable and surprisingly without any twists or shocks. The villain is identified early on and the story focuses more on Peter’s emotional journey then the mystery. The story is told in third person POV from Peter’s perspective and thus none of the characters ever emerge from their allotted roles. There is the lesbian best friend, conniving villain, wary love interest, and Peter as a duller version of Lanyon’s popular Adrian English. The entire story feels muted and lacking the pop and interest of the author’s usual offerings. The flip side is that the emotional advancement of Peter takes importance over the weak mystery and absentee characters.

Peter has a chance to change and instead of obsessively worrying about his lost memories, he grips his current life and happens to make amends with the lover he lost. The title hints at Peter’s refusal to live in the past once he’s given a new chance at life, even if inadvertently. His emotional growth is the main thread of the story and definitely has more depth than the other elements. Peter’s romantic relationship is somewhat unsatisfying as there is no context, simply a breakup and then they are back together without much consideration for the reasons they initially broke up. The relationship, much like the characters themselves, is simply a vehicle to move the story along and get to the final resolution with a happy ending.

Overall, fans will want to check out this more somber toned story but ultimately it lacks the weight and satisfaction of the author’s other work. This isn't the best story this author has written, but it is a short, easy to read story with a happy ending that fans can use to tide themselves over until the new Adrian English installment. Since the author is capable of wonderful writing, solid characters, and an emotional connection, no doubt the next book will be better. The emotional journey is the main, and best, part of the story which contains no outrageous aspects but is nevertheless an excellent and engaging read.

Dream Machine by Jayne Rylon

Dream Machine by Jayne Rylon
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (191 pgs)
Other: M/F, M/F/M, Mild Spanking, Light BDSM, Voyeurism, Anal Sex
Rating: 4.5 Cherries
Review by Gillyflower

The best dreams are made of naughty and spice.

Rebecca Williams is about to achieve her goal of graduating from a prestigious university and winning a coveted spot in her mentor’s cutting-edge psychology practice. She just needs one more qualification: sexual experience. She never dreamed it would come at the hands of the man she’s admired and wanted for six years. Dr. Kurt Foster.

Kurt, a brilliant psychologist in the field of sexual therapy, is a scientist to the core. Attraction and lust are nothing more than chemical reactions, in his clinical opinion. Love? It’s just a figment of the imagination born of nature’s directives. He’s on the brink of proving it with a new machine that uncovers latent desires.

In short order, Becca’s forbidden lust for her boss is exposed. As Kurt continues to enlighten her on the darker facets of her sexuality, the student unexpectedly becomes the teacher.

And suddenly Kurt is confronted with the irrefutable proof that love is so much more than a societal construction.

Warning: This book is only suitable for readers who are turned on by hot doctors engaging in sexual experiments, bondage, ménage a trois, exhibitionism, suspension, anal sex and other deviant behavior using mechanical stimulation devices they’ve invented to make your wildest dreams come true.

Problem? A repressed sex therapist. Solution? Lots and lots of hands-on training.

Drs. Kurt Foster and Rebecca Williams are well drawn, likeable and sympathetic characters, each of whom has overcome past struggles to succeed professionally. Can the Dream Machine help them find the same success personally?

No quickie here, Ms. Rylon has written a long, delightfully complex story with the plot threads seamlessly woven to move the story along and keep the reader eager to read the next page. The betrayal of a close colleague sets the stage for the initiation of a scientific experiment that challenges the heart and titillates the senses.

The interaction between Kurt and Becca was delightful, as their relationship evolved from that of student-teacher to one of equals. Becca was a strong, intelligent, hard-working woman used to sacrifice and self-discipline. Her sexual awakening was like the unfolding petals of a well-tended flower; well-tended, that is, by the charismatic, sexy, no-nonsense scientist, Kurt. Recognizing her submissive tendencies did nothing to compromise Becca’s integrity, and led to fun, feisty sparring between Becca and Kurt.

Kurt, who does not believe love, is more than a chemical reaction, likewise benefits from careful nurturing he did not know he needed. These two embark on a journey accompanied by a lot of scorching heat that was integral to the story, to the relationship between the characters, and to their respective journeys of self-discovery. Kurt’s dominating personality had me panting right along with Becca, and his lab – a dominant’s perfect playroom -- was a terrific setting for lots of *hawt*, sweet, tear-your-hair-out passion.

I loved everything about this story and highly recommend it, with the exception of the setting, which felt somewhat contrived. Willing though I was, I could not suspend sufficient disbelief to accept that a research university would permit such a heavy-handed and lascivious board of directors to behave as Ms. Rylon would have us believe. The regular intrusion of this “no way” reaction was the only detraction from an otherwise steamy and charming plot, and is the only thing keeping this reviewer from finding this a 5-book read. The notion of the “experiment” might have worked better in a different context – perhaps aliens studying humans – than with a modern professor and female graduate student.

Dr. Luke Malone, the only other character with a meaningful role in this story, was attractive and likeable, and I hope we get to see his story someday. Dream Machine kept me reading late into the night and Ms. Rylon is now an autobuy for me. If you like hot sex, handsome men and feisty heroines, Dream Machine is the book for you!

Between Love and Lust by Nikko Lee

Between Love and Lust by Nikko Lee
Publisher: Double Dragon Publishing
Genre: Paranormal, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Full Length (229 pgs)
Other: BDSM, M/F, F/F, Multiple Partners, Spanking, Voyeurism, Forced Seduction
Rating: 3 Cherries
Review by Phlox

All vampires hunger for blood, but for Mika the pleasures of the flesh are as nourishing as blood. Since the start of her unlife, she has indulged her need for carnal satiation. After the death of her mater-sire, she began to comprehend the complexities of the political struggles embroiling the clans of Haven, and now that knowledge fascinates her. Her pater-sire introduces her to a world of intrigue, where information is as valuable as blood. Mika’s particular ability to seduce and enchant allows her to assist her pater-sire in uncovering the perpetrators of the assassination of a clan leader. While deep with the slums controlled by Clan Corbius, Mika meets a handsome and dangerous exile who is as renowned for his fighting skills as his ability to seduce. Hail McMahon is as sexy as he is unpredictable, and with his aid, Mika is able to escape from the territory of Clan Corbius after a mysterious attack by a mob of crazed vampires.

A good vampire tale has always struck me as more of a fantasy novel than a paranormal since half the enjoyment lies in the world and mythology building behind the story. This story does not disappoint in that regard, offering a well-crafted vision of vampire genesis and social structure, of demonic bloodlines and a thirteen clan structure with biblical resonance.

Unfortunately, all the explanations get the story off to a rather slow start. While the reader wants to know about these things, it might have been better to pepper some of the exposition into the story here and there, into dialogue and interaction. Too many passages of information and explanation made the novel a little difficult to stick with at times, bogging down the flow of the narrative. It also took away from the attachment one needs to feel for the characters, keeping the reader at arms’ length. I had trouble mustering emotional involvement until perhaps halfway through the book. Issues with the editing of dialogue only added to the distance. I’m fully prepared for more formal diction in my vampires but formality often slid into stiffness and even grammatical pitfalls. (e.g. this little passage here: Erik muttered through bared teeth. “However repugnant your methods are, my leader has saw fit to grant your pater-sire, and by extension you, Clan Lucienna's protection.”)

Once it gets rolling, there is a good, core story here and the characters, through their actions, get a chance to show who they are. I will confess a rather stronger attachment to the duty and honor bound Erik than the roguish Hail, whom I suspect I was supposed to like more, but they acted as foils for each other and provided an extra edge of conflict for our heroine.

While it had its issues, the novel is worth the read for the carefully constructed world alone and the battle scenes are great fun. The ending felt a little rushed…but wait, there’s a sequel, which explains the loose ends. I’ll be watching, ready to pounce on the next installment.

Carl’s Story by Kissa Starling

Carl’s Story by Kissa Starling
Publisher: Red Rose Publishing
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short Story (37 pgs)
Other: BDSM, M/F, Spanking, Voyeurism
Rating: 3.5 Cherries
Review by Fern

A poor body image and public play at the Dungeon don't mix so what's a submissive to do?

Sylvie and Carl used to be prominent play partners at the dungeon. Fast forward to three kids later and Sylvie is ashamed of her once perfect body. Carl understands that restoring her self confidence is his responsibility but he's not sure how to do it. When her body issues affect their marriage he knows that it's time for drastic action. An upcoming birthday provides him not only with the perfect time but the perfect solution to their problems as well...

Life after children changes every facet of life – including the sexual aspect. As a Mother, I was excited to read Carl’s Story, a tale of a husband and wife that enjoy a steamy BDSM lifestyle until body issues and low self esteem come front and center. It’s something I think any woman, Mother or not, can relate to. Time is a cruel force of nature, and all people–both men and women alike–must succumb to her sooner or later. It’s a matter of finding comfort in your own skin and worth in your own image.

The story moves quickly and has tons of hot pages along the way. You’ll get your BDSM fix, a nice strip tease, and a whole lot more along the way. My problem with the material is that I couldn’t seem to get in touch with the characters. We know what motivates and inhibits them, but that connection and spark I kept waiting for never happened. Even still, this is something that can and will be enjoyed by many.

Carl’s story is a very fast paced and enjoyable read.

Speed Dating by Sophia Titheniel

Speed Dating by Sophia Titheniel
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Paranormal, Contemporary
Length: Short Story (45 pgs)
Other: M/M, Anal Sex
Rating: 3.5 Cherries
Review by Cactus

Welcome to Damon's, the hottest club in town -- the must-go place for every single gay Elf (or Human) around.

Alyan's life has gone down the tubes. After a painful breakup with his long-time lover and boss, he's shut himself off, trying to mend his broken heart. His sister, however, has other plans. Meredith's not willing to let Alyan wallow in self-pity any longer. Deaf to his protests, she drags him to Damon's big Friday night event -- speed dating.

Alyan's trying to play along, but he's really not interested in a one-night fling. No matter how many years -- or lovers -- have passed, something always brings him back to Damon's. Not something. Someone. The man who's everything Alyan is not -- confident, charming and charismatic. What Alyan truly wants is the owner of the club, Damon himself. But he'd better get a move on, before he ends up with a Troll.

When a century’s old unrequited crush between elves finally sparks, these two stop at nothing to fulfill their fantasies. Alyan is finally back in the dating scene after a painful breakup, forced into trying out speed dating at a popular bar. Unfortunately his age old crush doesn’t seem to be biting so Alyan takes a chance on a good looking one night stand. When he realizes the next morning no one but Damon will do, Alyan finally approaches the man to explosive results.

This new series from the author has some of her trademark style while introducing a new cast of characters and a new setting. The short story (45 pages) hinges too much on the hot, dynamic sex between men and not enough on the connection and characterization. In fact, the story has very little depth and substance beyond the hot sex – which is wonderfully rough, masculine, and erotic. The story is loosely about Alyan and Damon finally getting together after a dance of long distance flirting for several decades. However, there is no background beyond that statement and neither man have any internal musings to help fill in the gaps of their shared history. The men ultimately are superficial and sexy, making this a fun guilty pleasure reading but still leaves you wanting more.

The sex scenes are extended and fill the majority of the pages, although some of the acrobatics are impossible and the story failed to tell how the men got from one position to the next sometimes. Similarly there is little to no world building beyond the statement that elves and human mingle in this new world. Unfortunately this solitary fact is not enough to create an entirely new world with fantasy beings. I wanted more depth from the world building to the characters to the main relationship and connection. Although the men end on an artificially happy note, I didn’t believe their professions of love – which seemed forced and automatic, given their lack of conversation.

Overall, this is a guilty indulgence for fans of the author who are looking for some hot, rough sex and not much story. I certainly enjoyed the erotica scenes as they made up the majority of the book and hope that future sequels will have more plot and depth to the characters and story and less gratuitous sex scenes, even if they are hot. There is a hanging ending and numerous loose ends such as characters and situations yet to be resolved so be sure to get this first book. Take a chance and pick up this story for fun and let’s hope the next has more meat to it (other than just the men).

Desire To Die For by Jessica Lee

Desire To Die For by Jessica Lee
Publisher: Loose ID
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Full Length (275 pgs)
Other: M/F, BDSM, Multiple Partners
Rating: Best Book
Review by Fern

Kenric St. James wants revenge. Three hundred years ago, an ancient, female vampire turned him against his will and killed the woman he loved. He's spent more than a century building an Enclave of warrior vampires who have sworn their allegiance to defend humanity and to eliminate the ancient vampire determined to destroy them all. After two centuries of denying his body's needs to gain strength, he's poised to take his vengeance when he meets a new love, who he burns to claim as his own. But giving her his love will surely mean her death.

Emily Ross is a nurse struggling to start a new life. She's a survivor, coming off the tail end of an abusive relationship and the tragic death of her parents. All she wants is time alone to learn who she is without a man and to save the home that holds her heart. The last thing she wants is another controlling, dominant male calling all the shots, in bed and out. Never would she have thought stopping her car one night to save a dying man might change her mind, and her life, forever. But is what they have, their desire, worth dying for?

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: BDSM content (including/not limited to: bondage, domination, whipping), bloodletting, multiple partners/orgies, strong violence.

It’s been a long time since I’ve read a vampire romance this good, and as someone that devours the paranormal like oxygen, that’s saying something. Jessica Lee has taken one of my absolute favorite genre’s – urban fantasy – and twined it with romance, creating just enough heat and intensity to keep you happy. But make no mistake; While the concept and story are fundamental, this is a pure erotic pleasure that you’ll absolutely enjoy.

Desire To Die For has every element a reader expects in a great romance–tight writing, great plot, steamy sex, relatable protagonists, exceptional character development–only Jessica Lee kicks it up a notch, and then some. You have the hardcore hero, Kenric St. James, who is as sexy as he is lethal, and the witty and kick-ass heroine, Emily Ross, that doesn’t wither or crumble under pressure. When the two come together, the page combusts and detonates, creating a slow sexual burn destined to fry your hard drive and crispy critter your motherboard.

But wait, it doesn’t end there.

Jessica has also given us an exceptional supporting cast, AKA the Warriors of the Enclave, to drool and fawn over. Each one is unique and oozes off the page, so much so you’ll want individual time alone with them. All of the Enclave deserve a story, and if Desire To Die For is any indication, that’s exactly what we can expect. It’s a good thing too, because I will be the first in line to snag a copy on release day.

I’m rating this one as a Best Book, all the way. Brilliantly written and flawlessly delivered, Desire To Die For is going on my keeper shelf. Keep an eye on Jessica Lee. She’s someone you can expect exceptional things from.

Vampire Kisses by Michele Bardsley

Vampire Kisses by Michele Bardsley
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday (Christmas, Valentine's Day, Halloween), Paranormal
Length: Short Story (90 pgs)
Other: BDSM, M/F, M/F/M, Ménage, Multiple Partners, Spanking
Rating: 5 Cherries
Review by Cholla

A Vampire for Every Season!

Christmas for Eve: Much to the envy of her friends, Eve Moore is dating erotica author Adora LaFortune, bestselling author of Swelter, AKA Steven Jones, horror novelist. This holiday season, she's ready to give Steven her heart along with her presents. Then she finds out that Swelter isn't exactly fiction, and her true love isn't exactly mortal.

Candy for Valentine: When Valentine Carter attends her first romance conference, she soon learns that "The Blog Bitch" reaps what she sows. Renowned book publicist Michael Sanderson is a vampire. He mistakenly believes that the lovely morsel trussed up in his hotel room is a gift from his friends. After an evening with the delicious Valentine, he decides he wants to keep her. Forever.

Treats for Trixie: At Steven Jones's annual Halloween party, wanna-be romance writer Trixie Lulabelle Jameson is excited to be among the elite of the publishing industry. Literary agent Marcus Moravius is one of the oldest vampires in existence, and very used to getting what he wants. And the only treat he wants to nibble on tonight is Trixie.

This collection contains the three previously released novellas Christmas for Eve, Candy for Valentine, and Treats for Trixie.

What could possibly be better than a humorous and erotic vampire story? How about three? And that’s exactly what you get when you open the pages of Vampire Kisses by Michele Bardsley. Ms. Bardley has a way of weaving humor throughout all of her stories, no matter how steamy, and that’s something that keeps me going back every time.

Christmas for Eve is set around Christmas with Eve Moore and her new boyfriend, author Steven Jones. Despite the crazy accusation Steven is asking her to accept, Eve’s trust in him wins out, for better or for worse. Bound together by destiny, Eve and Steven are one hot couple, setting everything they touch on fire. Laced with laughter, some of the most erotic sex I’ve read in a long time, Christmas for Eve is hot enough to melt the snow on your doorstep.

Candy for Valentine is set just two months after Christmas for Eve and picks up with Valentine, Eve’s close friend, at a romance reader’s convention. When a mistake lands Michael Sanderson in her hotel room, Val’s not quite sure what to do. I guess it’s a good thing Michael has absolutely no doubts at all. Another perfectly matched couple, Valentine and Michael support each other and raise them above their pasts and past mistakes. Full of suspense, mystery and many a laugh, Candy for Valentine is a smokin’ hot read that you won’t soon forget.

Rounding out this collection is probably my favorite story of the three, Treats for Trixie. I’m not sure if it’s because it’s set around my favorite holiday – Halloween – or the fact that it centers on a single mother trying to work, write novels and raise her daughter as best she can. Either way, it’s a great combination of time and theme for me. Trixie Jameson, aka Lanie Haart, was introduced to Valentine Carter in Candy for Valentine, and picks up several months after the reader’s convention. Lost and alone, she suffers through a Halloween party thrown by Eve and her fiancé, Stephen. Just when she thinks Halloween is going to be a bust, Marcus Moravius appears. She’s a broken and defeated woman while he’s a man out of time and place. Together, they begin to mend their emotional wounds while sparking more than a few fireworks of their own. They’re my favorite couple because they’re probably the closest to what I can relate to. His family was destroyed by a madman; hers by her ex. They are proof that time and love can heal all wounds.

Vampire Kisses is an outrageously steamy and fun collection of short vampire stories. Probably the best part of these holiday-themed stories is that they are all interconnected with one another and follow a timeline that parallels the holidays being celebrated. It makes for a cohesive and enjoyable read. An added benefit is that it seems more like you’re reading three chapters of one story instead of three separate pieces. So, if you’re in the mood for a sexy and fun vampire short, this collection of shorts will certainly satisfy your cravings.

A Capitol Affair by Jamaica Layne

A Capitol Affair by Jamaica Layne
Publisher: Ravenous Romance
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (169 pgs)
Other: BDSM, M/F, M/F/F, F/F, Multiple Partners, Spanking, Voyeurism
Rating: 3.5 Cherries
Review by Tiger Lily

Jasmine Rand is one of the most in-demand Congressional press secretaries on Capitol Hill. And in her many years of serving the PR needs of Washington's power brokers, she's helped her employers recover from more than their share of scandals. But the sex scandal that just broke this morning about her current boss, Senator Howard Grayle (the ultraconservative Republican senator from North Dakota) is more than even she can handle. So needless to say, Jasmine Rand is at the end of her rope. Jasmine turns to Rodney Doyle, the ultra-powerful (and also ultra-sexy) editor of the Beltway Times----for help, and maybe a little more. Can mousy, thirtysomething Jasmine Rand get Rodney Doyle interested in her? Or is Jasmine already in way over her head?

A CAPITOL AFFAIR is a tasty, red-hot look inside the sexual underworld of our nation's capitol. Sex and politics go together like champagne and strawberries, after all----and it's all here. Secret sex clubs, backroom dealings between sexy aides and hot young congressmen, bondage, submission, ménage a trois, and more.

Sometimes the person you want is the person you despise and other times, he’s the one you need, despite what you want to admit. Such is the case in A Capitol Affair.

Ms. Layne writes an interesting and compelling novella. Her characters are unique and easy for the reader to identify with. You want to see Jasmine keep her job and be happy in her skin. I liked that this story revolved around a woman who wasn’t model thin. She was like people I know and could relate to. That made the story relevant to me.

The writing was crisp and cohesive, but I felt almost as if Jasmine shortchanged herself on occasion. I wanted her to be strong, but when she factored her newfound sexuality into the equation, she lost a bit of herself. That being said, I felt that it helped the reader to see her frailty under the strong façade. You wanted to see her grow into who she really was.

The love scenes and intermixed sex scenes were hot! I enjoyed watching Jasmine morph into the dominatrix role she was born to play. It was very empowering to see such an independent woman in her element. I also liked seeing the hero squirm. Rodney put her up to the actions, yet when he’s not involved, he’s not sure he likes it. The possessiveness was what made me root for them to make it.

If you want a sexy romp through Washington politics, then you want to read A Capitol Affair. I give this novella 3 ½ cherries.

Nights in Pink Satin by Sharon Maria Bidwell

Nights in Pink Satin by Sharon Maria Bidwell
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Short Story (70 pgs)
Other: M/M, Anal Sex
Rating: 3.5 Cherries
Review by Cactus

Vincent is a vampire of world renown, even if most people believe his story is a fable, but with age comes boredom. Seeking out new silk to line his coffin for his annual Halloween ball, he comes across a bolt of pink fabric. Curiosity leads him to a mistake that is about to change his existence.

Martin is a newly turned vampire and a lonely gay man. When he finds an extremely good looking and famous vampire in his humble abode, he's glad of the company even though he's afraid.

When a simple mistake leads to explosive passion, what's a vampire to do but look forward to a future of gay nights between sheets of pink satin?

There’s something about a gay vampire with pink glitter in his hair and lining his coffin in pink satin that just epitomizes fabulous. When Martin returns home with the latest Kylie CD, he’s surprised to find a legendary vampire in his home. Just as Martin is dealing with his shock and instant attraction to the handsome “older” man, Vincent is equally shocked to find the owner of the pink satin is a man. Although Vincent is thrown off his seduction plan at the change in gender, Martin is equally determined to show the other vampire the delights of sex between two men. When the vampires are stuck in the closet during the daytime, the explosive chemistry ignites both questions and delight.

This is an interesting story where all the action happens within the span of 24 hours. From the time Vincent discovers the pink satin bolt to when both men leave the apartment, only one day has passed. The men are wary of each other as the sexual chemistry between them sparks. Martin is openly gay and lonely even before his transformation to an undead vampire. He is also strong-willed and surprisingly dominant in bed, overwhelming Vincent and his protests. Vincent doesn’t protest much beyond refusing to admit he’s attracted, let alone having sex, with another man instead of a woman. Vincent lets the attraction and great sex between the two override his mental protests.

The story has a dark edge with the blood and emotional tone woven into the mental musings of the men. This keeps the characters sharp even as the men lack some depth. The focus on internal musings helps define the characterization but the problematic writing keeps this from succeeding. The narrative frequently shifts point of view, hopping from Martin’s head to Vincent’s head often paragraph to paragraph creating a disjointed and slightly jarring reading experience. Also unfortunate is that the epilogue sweeps all the dramatic tension and progression into a neat bow with a happy ever after ending. This is shifted from a happy for now ending at the end of the story and unfortunately weakens the entire narrative. Vincent’s struggle to accept his sexuality and a relationship with the flamboyant Martin all occurs off page as the reader is simply informed all is happy at the end. This struggle and acceptance would have been very interesting to read and I was disappointed the men and conflict was introduced then dropped off page.

As a shorter beginning to the characters and brief touching on the London setting, this is a fun, sexy story. I’d like to see more of the two in the future as their opposite personalities are sure to cause conflict then heated make-up sex. The complex character of Martin is sure to arouse reader empathy even if Vincent is a little too godly for the context. Overall, fans of vampire stories looking for something different and edgy with a splash of cliché gay tropes be sure to check this out. You might find yourself getting some pink satin sheets.

Secrets—Volume 27 an Anthology

Secrets—Volume 27 by Liane Gentry Skye, Nicole North, Leigh Court, Hannah Murray
Publisher: Red Sage Publishing
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Historical, Paranormal, Fantasy
Length: Full Length Anthology (4 Stories, 328 pgs)
Other: BDSM, M/F, Spanking
Rating: 5 Cherries
Review by Xeranthemum


THE BET - LEIGH COURT
I can make a woman come using just my words…
That outrageous claim by a very drunk Damian Hunt, Viscount Atherton, somehow escalates into a high stakes wager between two best friends: Damian bets his prized racehorse that he can do it… George Beringer gambles his London townhouse that Damian can’t.

And the surprising woman George chooses for the bet is not only a virgin, she’s also George’s very respectable sister, Claire -- and to complicate matters even more, once Damian lays eyes on her, the stakes escalate in the most unpredictable way…


THE BOY NEXT DOOR - HANNAH MURRAY
Isabella Carelli isn’t just looking for Mr. Right, she’s looking for Mr. Tie Me Up And Do Me Right. In all the wrong places. Fortunately, the right place is right next door. And the boy next door is just about ready to make his move...

DEVIL IN A KILT - NICOLE NORTH
A trip to the Highland Games turns into a trip to the past when modern day Shauna MacRae touches Gavin MacTavish’s four-hundred-year-old claymore. What she finds is a Devil In a Kilt she’s had erotic fantasies about for months. Can Shauna break the curse imprisoning this shape shifting laird and his clan before an evil witch sends Shauna back to her time and takes Gavin as her sex slave?

HEART'S STORM - LIANE GENTRY SKYE
Sirenia's final breeding moon is upon her. She is the last fertile mermaid of her brood. Racing against a hurricane, she must search out and mate with the only merman who can save her kind--the prophesied Lost Son of Triton. When Sirenia rescues injured Navy SEAL, Byron Burke from drowning, she seals herself into his life debt. When the time comes to ask Byron for her freedom, her heart threatens to stand in the way of the last, best hope for her kind.

Heart's Storm by Liane Gentry Skye is a delightful romance mixing an alpha Navy SEAL with a real ocean lady, a mermaid. In this fast moving tale, we have a man of honor suffering from a tragedy which ends up far larger than he realized. Then there’s the lovely mermaid who’s forced to accept the mantle of responsibility but suddenly comes face to face with the horrible reality that she has to choose between the only love she’s ever known and duty. Top it off with a plotting evil villain who is psychotic enough to be an excellent depiction of a sadistic megalomaniac and Heart Storm delivers a fun read. Get ready for a hero and heroine to root for, a great bad guy to boo and hiss at, and a satisfying happily ever after.

The Boy Next Door by Hannah Murray opens with a chuckle inducing bathtub scene that had me grinning from ear to ear. The dialogue in the kitchen was incredible and after the wine, oh, my gosh, I felt like I was really there, listening in. And I knew things were going to get interesting especially when Jacob got her to tell him her definition of ‘vanilla’. There’s some great storytelling during that scene which inspires hot flashes. The part when she comes home from running is hot too, lots of excellent build-up and tension. I was totally hooked when the present on the table shows up because Jacob’s one word response to Isabella’s question about the object ended up being like the firing of the starting gun at a race but the end point in this story is seduction. This is well written, hot and full of fun. I liked this one.

Devil in a Kilt by Nicole North is a time traveling romance with a brawny Scottsman under a curse. There’s a lot of heart in this story as well as heat. There are a few plot conflicts that interweave, between personal angst, a vile witch and the breaking of the aforementioned curse. I enjoyed Gavin, the hero, and his kilt wearing ways. Shauna, the heroine, was the perfect balance of modern day independence and sexual freedom which put her as the perfect counterpoint to Gavin’s alpha Laird. She’s not loose or scatterbrained, she is a strong woman who stands up for herself and her dialogue was crackerjack sharp. Also, I liked that Shauna isn’t afraid to enjoy the benefits of Gavin’s…kilt. Their coming together was pure romance. The battle or skirmish reminded me of the daring do of the old Errol Flynn movies – dashing and manly. It was very exciting.

The Bet by Leigh Court is a cute story about two bored men who make a bet and one, Damien, ends up winning something more valuable than a horse. Claire is the virginal heroine whose fascination with learning about other cultures leads to both her downfall and her delight. This story is sweet in that it follows the adage that sometimes the best things in life are right under your very nose. The use of the Kama Sutra was quite clever and it made me laugh. Not that it’s laugh out loud funny, though there are a few moments where you smile, but Claire’s fascination with it and what it eventually leads to; it’s a wonderful tool for seduction and the author used it well. I liked this story too because of the way their love grew, like a taffy-pull. “Should she? Oh, proper ladies don’t do that sort of thing. But how do they…?” See what I mean? The Bet is a well told tale of seduction and romance.

With this great combination of authors and plots, this anthology is a "must-buy". I highly recommend it.

The Taming Of A Vixen by Wendy Stone

The Taming Of A Vixen by Wendy Stone
Publisher: Phaze Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (206 pgs)
Other: M/F, F/F
Rating: 4 Cherries
Review by Fern

Lord Jason Ashington seems content with living the bachelor's life, until a literal run-in with Lady Alyssa Cortland has him rethinking his position. Bored with his cloying mistress and intrigued by the young, fiery beauty, he is interested in getting to know Alyssa better.

Lady Alyssa isn't thrilled by societal restraints, and would prefer to marry for love than status. When the dashing and mysterious "Jamie" rescues her from an assault, she is smitten by his charm and overwhelmed by his lovemaking skills. Despite growing attraction to Lord Jason, she can't stop yearning for Jamie.

Will she desire the lord, however, when she learns Jason and Jamie are one and the same?

Do you want a whole lot of heat mixed with a splash of humor and memorable characters? Then, The Taming Of A Vixen, is just what the doctor ordered.

Lord Jason Ashington is the consummate bachelor, enjoying a life of leisure and a bit of sport, until he meets Lady Alyssa Courtland. She’s the most cunning, feisty, and beautiful creature he’s ever seen. But though he wants her, he isn’t ready to be shackled to a wife. Alyssa, on the other hand, longs for what Jason is unwilling to give – marriage and love. She yearns to experience the kind of relationship her parents share, one of both attraction and devotion. Of course, none of this matters when Jason rescues Alyssa from bandits while wearing a mask. At that point, he becomes Jamie. And the entire story comes to life.

The Taming Of A Vixen is a wonderful story that snares the reader from start to finish. Both protagonists are wonderfully written and thoroughly developed, as is the amazing supporting cast that provides even more depth and heat. The story progresses beautifully, with several unexpected twists and turns that will leave you clamoring for more.

This is the first story I’ve read by Wendy Stone, but it definitely won’t be the last. The Taming of a Vixen is a must read.