Inequities by Jambrea Jo Jones

Inequities by Jambrea Jo Jones
Publisher: Total-E-Bound
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Short Story (89 Pages)
Other: M/F
Rating: 4.5 Cherries
Reviewed by Foxglove

Sometimes you need to take justice in your own hands.

Russell Masters is having a pity party. Woe is him; he isn’t fit to be in charge. If he doesn’t change his way of thinking he could lose the very thing that could make him stronger.

Vivian Sommer can’t understand why her mate won’t claim her. They are destined to be together and she wants to be Russ’ with an all fire passion. It means family and finally belonging. But she isn’t going to sit around while he figures out they are better together.

Her tribe isn’t willing to let her go with out a fight. Russ and Vivian must work together and stand strong because another threat could shatter their very existence.

Jambrea Jo Jones continues to weave her magic in this third book in her Seeds of Dawn series. Inequities deals with the varied levels of strength and magic within the pack, and with the alpha’s feelings of self-doubt in his abilities.

As alpha of his pack of shifters, Russ Masters thinks he’s a fraud, a failure. He is doubting his ability to lead, and doesn’t believe he deserves the beautiful fox that is his mate. Vivian is determined to show Russ they belong together, or get out of his life. He has ignored her since she arrived, and she believes he despises her. But when her guard from her pack arrives with a warning that danger is coming, Russ snaps out of his mood, and takes charge the way any good alpha does.

When the evil Ryerson and his group of henchmen arrive, Russ finds the strength inside to make decisions based on what is best for the pack, and protect his mate. Can they keep Ryerson from destroying the wolves and their home? Can Russ find balance and strength and lead the pack to safety? With Vivian’s love to ground him, can Russ accept that being alpha doesn’t mean he has to be the strongest?

As with the first two stories in this series, the world here is filled with unique and interesting characters, and adds a new species in with the wolves and cats we have seen so far. Every character has a purpose, a specific role to play in the prophesied war that has been foretold by the Ancients, and the threads are coming together more in each book.

Russ Masters is alpha of his pack. It is an unusual pack, composed of misfits and outcasts, but all are welcome at the Masters compound. Russ is strong in leadership skills and yet he doubts his worth. Handsome and loyal, he knows Vivian is his mate, but feels she deserves more. I enjoyed watching as he realized it isn’t about magic or strength or who has more, but about knowing how to lead and protect his mate and his pack. I also loved watching as his mate put him soundly in his place, bringing out the best in him.

Vivian Sommers is a fox shifter, and a very determined woman. She is strong and sassy, and decides that if Russ doesn’t want her for a mate, she will leave. I loved watching as she refused to let him wallow in self-pity, and stood up to him at every turn. Although a princess in her den, she wants nothing more than to be with her mate and spend her life loving him. I love Vivian’s spirit and her courage in facing the very dangerous Ryerson.

There are a couple of surprises that I didn’t expect, and another couple found mates, but this is very much Russ and Vivian’s story. There is an evil mage controlling things from the background, and the danger is never far away, but Ms. Jones manages to bring the threads together for a sweet yet sexy happy for now for Russ and Vivian. And there are several very hot scenes here, with passion jumping out at you from the pages.

There is still more danger headed their way, but together, the pack will face what is coming and present a united front. I recommend that these be read in order to better see the full picture of this story. I look forward to the next book in this series, and will be keeping my fan ready for the next one.

Undercover Lovers by Fiona McGier

Undercover Lovers by Fiona McGier
Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (184 pages)
Other: M/F, Anal Play, M/F/M, ménage
Rating: 4 Cherries
Review by: Moonflower

Ameena has never been able to forget what she endured on her last assignment before she left the agency. She was the only female agent to live through what The Executioner did to his victims, but she still bears the scars, both physical and psychological. When he escapes from his prison cell, her ex-handler brings two agents with him to tell her that one or the other will be her shadow until her torturer is caught again—and this time she’ll be allowed to kill him. Having kept herself too busy for romance, she’s caught off-guard by the sudden insertion into her life of two gorgeous men, one who actively pursues her and one whom she finds more attractive for his shyness. Will she live long enough to make a choice? And is that the end of the story...or the beginning?

Undercover Lovers is sexy but sweet, suspenseful but romantic and naughty but nice. This story had a lot of filling: love, passion, betrayal, action, suspense, spies and danger. There was a wonderful mix of emotions to keep your blood pumping from the first page to the last.

Ameena gave more then what was expected of her when she worked for the government as an agent. A year later she is still tormented by nightmares, only to discover her attacker has escaped custody and is now coming after her. She is done playing nice. She wants to get her life back and she will do so as playing bait. Working with her old handler and two gorgeous but different men, they set a trap. This time The Executioner will not escape.

Agents Tomás and Adam have been partners for years. After hearing that a fellow agent is in need of guarding, they jump at the chance to protect her. Tomás is the carefree playboy of the team while Adam is reserved and quiet. They have a perfect partnership until they meet Ameena. They are both instantly attracted to her and the both will do anything to get her.

Undercover Lovers is a hard book to categorize. While the story is about secret agents, it had minimal action and suspense. Ms. McGier does a superb job incorporating the exciting moments with loving touching scenes. You never lose sight of the passion between the destined lovers. There is an undercurrent of sexual tension between the three main characters, but this is truly a M/F romance. The sacrifice that Ameena makes for her man is heart wrenching and distressing, but in the world they live in, you can absolutely understand her reason for making the decision.

I was captivated by Undercover Lovers and I was engaged throughout the story. The characters were fun to read about and the love story was beautifully written. I enjoyed how the two lovers came together so amazingly. Their love was bright and brilliant and their future is forever. Ms. McGier drew me in and made me fall in love with them. She has a new fan and I plan to check out her other books.

Undercover Lovers can be read as a standalone novel, but it turns out this is the second book in an unnamed series. Secret Love is the first book and several of the characters from that book make an appearance. It sounds like they have an intriguing story. I could also see the possibility of the remaining man from this story getting his own book. While the ending definitely wrapped up the story very nicely, the door was just barely cracked for the possibility of his tale and my fingers are crossed that will be written.

Pick up a copy of Undercover Lovers! You won’t be disappointed. This is an enticing fun read that will keep you turning the pages well into the night.

The 18th Floor by Margie Church

The 18th Floor by Margie Church
Publisher: A Renaissance E Books publication / Sizzler Editions
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short Story (93 pgs)
Other: BDSM, M/F, Anal Play, Fetish, Toys, Spanking, Voyeurism
Rating: 4 cherries
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Alexa Robbins is so consumed by her career, the only sex she has is listening to her nymphomaniac neighbors go at it. When Sebastian Law discovers her in the eighteenth floor conference room early one morning, the table becomes a pallet for making one of her fantasies come true. Will he enjoy her extensive repertoire of fantasies? On the outside, Sebastian appears a buttoned-up, well-dressed, techno geek. Inside, he's a Dom with a hearty appetite for all types of carnal pleasures. He risks alienating Alexa by revealing his true nature, but he won't keep the secret for long. Together, they explore all the things that turn them on. And discover whether they're a perfect match for life beyond the 18th Floor.

In the mood for an erotic romance adventure with just a touch of emotion and light drama? Step into Alexa and Sebastian’s world for a pinpoint moment where two co-workers find out that they have more in common than the building they work in.

The speed that things happen in the beginning is perfect for a reader who is looking for instant gratification because those well written and steamy encounters are sure pleasers. For a reader like me who looks for that emotional connection that makes the plot have meaning and relevance, Ms. Church provided some light drama by introducing the skeletons in the closet.

Sebastian has a lot to lose and more to gain by putting his real self out there. It takes a strong man to take the steps he did because what he hopes to gain in the long run is greater than anything he’s strived for before. Alexa is worth the effort.

Alexa is a smart, ambitious and likeable heroine. She also has a hidden passion that has led to her to being hurt in the past. She notices Sebastian and isn’t afraid of acting on her feelings for him, to a point. It’s her past hurts that come to haunt her in the present that affords this tale a solid recommend.

I like a certain level of conflict in stories because it makes the characters stretch and grow, making the book more interesting. In The 18th Floor,, the protagonists are enjoyable because they are active participants, not cardboard-like and shallow -- only there for the sex. Ms. Church created a villain that truly was a jerk. In reality, the cops would have probably taken both of them into custody because of the actions of one of the characters, but then again, some states are a bit more tolerant about people who walk the line of vigilantism in defense of their loved ones. The author used it to good effect.

Except for getting Sebastian’s nemesis’ name wrong once, the editing was nearly flawless. The dialogue was well done and the temporary secondary characters enhanced the understanding of exactly what Sebastian needed and wanted from Alexa. Readers will find the exotic location titillating.

The 18th Floor provides pure sensual enjoyment for readers who appreciate the finer points of the BDSM lifestyle. Sebastian and Alexa are good together and I enjoyed reading their story. Ms. Church consistently writes seductive and interesting tales and readers can add this to the list.

Secrets by Jambrea Jo Jones

Secrets by Jambrea Jo Jones
Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Short Story (117 Pages)
Other: M/F
Rating: 4.5 Cherries
Reviewed by Foxglove

Secrets: They have a way of sneaking up on you.

Max Rockwell is the muscle. Give him a good fight and he is ready to go. Sick a sexy reporter on him and he is doomed. The pack secrets are safe with him. He wouldn’t spill them even if his life depended on it. But what if it isn’t his life he has to worry about?

Valerie Thomas wants a story and the smoking hot Max will give her want she wants. What she gets is more than she bargained for. Creatures she couldn’t even begin to imagine are after her all because fate is a bitch.

Secrets can be innocent fun, but there are those secrets that need to be told.

Max Rockwell has been avoiding the pesky reporter who has been dogging his steps for weeks. She wants a scoop on the excitement weeks ago at the pack compound of his pack. Valerie Thomas is as determined to get her story as Max is to avoid her. It doesn’t help that every time she gets near him, his wolf goes crazy, and Max has strange urges he isn’t comfortable with. But when Valerie is attacked by a were-leopard in the parking lot, Max runs to her rescue.

When he returns home, Bella tells him that she had a vision, and Valerie needs to be at the compound to help with whatever is heading their way. Soon, Max realizes Valerie is his mate, something he never expected. He also never expected to meet his sister, a sister he didn’t know he had. Then there is the secret that Zareb, the were-leopard in their pack, has been keeping; one that will change life for everyone in the pack. Can the pack survive the evil trying to destroy it? Can Valerie and Max make a life together? Or will the Secrets tear it all apart?

This is Jambrea Jo Jones’ second book in her Seeds of Dawn series. Having read Dreams, I had been waiting to see where Ms. Jones would take this one. Secrets is filled with surprises, passion, danger, action and evil beings intent on the destruction of all shifters. This is filled with a large cast of marvelous characters, and each is important to the overall story. Make no mistake, however, this is definitely Max and Valerie’s story, with the rest woven through like a finely detailed tapestry.

Valerie Thomas is a smart, independent woman. A reporter, she has an insatiable curiosity about everything, and a determination to get to the true story. When she sets her mind to uncovering the secrets out at Russ Masters’ compound, she doesn’t let a little thing like Max stop her. She is a magic user as well, although she doesn’t abuse her powers like many others do. She is not a forever kind of girl, until Max drops into her life. I enjoyed her sassy mouth as she continually baits Max.

Max Rockwell is a lone wolf, avoiding Valerie and her incessant requests for interviews, until she gets close enough for him to realize that she is his mate. Max is not ready for eternity with one woman, especially one that continually shakes his world and makes him crazy. But when Valerie is in danger, all bets are off, and he claims what is his. I loved watching as Max discovered what was important in his world, and I enjoyed watching Valerie and Max bounce wisecracks off of each other.

There are a couple of subplots here, including the meeting of mates for three other characters. We see Zareb, Russ and Djimon meet their mates, and they are all surprised at who each mate is. There is also the fight against evil, embodied in the person of Dmitri, the bad guy from book one, and the mysterious Vessel that began the whole situation. But things aren’t always what they seem, and soon all the Secrets are revealed and the pack must join together to exorcise the evil that is Dmitri to save Djimon’s life.

There is a hard won happy for now, but I look forward to the next book in this imaginative and passionate series to see where Ms. Jones takes me next. This is a hot one, so be sure to keep the fan on high.

Wet: Reef’s Guardian by Silvia Violet

Wet: Reef’s Guardian by Silvia Violet
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Short Story (59 pgs)
Other: M/M, Anal Play, Voyeurism
Rating: 4.5 cherries
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Brett Leland serves as the director of an underwater research station located near one of the world's last healthy coral reefs. His life's work is focused on protecting the reef and discovering why it has remained healthy as others are failing. But his university plans to sell the research station, and someone is trying to sabotage his final mission.

Setiwan Maramis is one of the legendary shape shifting guardians of the reef. He's been watching Brett since the scientist first came to the station, and he wants Brett as both an ally and a lover. He is forbidden to reveal himself to humans, but when an enemy puts Brett's life in danger, Setiwan follows his heart rather than the dictates of his people.

If a reader needs a quality story with plenty of well written descriptions, plot, build-up and sensual delivery, then they’re in for a treat when they pick up this little gem.

I’m amazed as to how detailed and intricate this short story is. It felt complete, had a terrific conflict and wonderful resolution. I enjoyed the author’s imagination and creative take on an ocean dwelling people.

Ms. Violet not only had a yummy pair of heroes but she also imbued her world building with the feeling of family, of change, courage and hope. The story is well planned out from how it was initially presented in Setiwan’s point of view to when it shifted to Brett’s. A reader will understand where each man stands and where they hope to be. It’s how they came together and what happens afterwards that really makes this book shine.

Both Setiwan and Brett are strong male leads. They have conviction and strength of purpose and yet they have needs that can’t be denied. I liked how the author hinted that there was a previous connection established, although semi-conscious, it was enough to make the speed of the courtship/mating seem more reasonable and acceptable. Having the protagonists fall in love fast can come with pitfalls but don’t worry, Ms. Violet skirted that with just the right touch of hints and fact to make it all work.

I was a little unclear as to why the bad guy was bad or if there really is some sort of alternate politics going on to make the light drama, suspense and nastiness happen in the first place. The author had him say something that made me scratch my head. What’s the real story? It sure has tweaked my interest. In fact, the whole book kept my interest and provided nonstop entertainment in one form or another.

The one thing that stood out is the balance of story and action versus sex. When the author wrote Brett and Seti’s skin scenes, she did it well, with feeling and loving vigor that just throbbed with enthusiasm. When it was time to tell the rest of the tale, it was gripping, fascinating and meaty enough to make me happy. I enjoyed the family dynamic because it gave the book a deeper resonance and it made Setiwan more of a sympathetic character. If a reader skimmed all the sex scenes, they’d still enjoy the book because there was a rich and real plot to back it all up. That’s a great accomplishment when talking about a book as short as this.

Wet: Reef’s Guardian is a delightful treat and a book well worth reading. I can’t get over how thorough and complete this book is. Even the editing was great. I enjoyed the unique idea of Guardians versus the tired old merman routine. I am intrigued with the idea of all the things they can change into and I can’t wait to see what else Ms. Violet can do with this worldbuilding. Watching Brett and Setiwan fall in love while learning about the other was stimulating, intriguing and quite sexy. Paranormal romance readers who enjoy man on man loving should be thrilled with Wet: Reef’s Guardian. It’s a happy story.

White Paws and a Dream by Stormy Glenn

White Paws and a Dream by Stormy Glenn
Publisher: Siren Publishing, Inc.
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Short Story (118 pgs)
Other: M/M, Anal Play
Rating: 5 cherries
Reviewed by Peppermint



The Gathering is called. The spell is cast. There is no escaping the Midnight Matings.

When Ifan Vashnikov is summoned to the Great Gathering and learns of the plan set up by UPAC, he decides he'd rather go feral than be forced to take a mate. Before he can voice his decision to the elders, he finds himself mated.

But his mating is not the usual mating. For one, he didn't drink the spiked champagne like everyone else, so he isn't in heat. Two, his mate is being protected for his own safety. Misha is a dreamwalker, the most powerful dreamwalker in over a thousand years. Because of that, he is being hunted. People want to use his powers for evil.

Misha just wants to settle down somewhere quiet with his dream mate. When he's rescued and taken to the UPAC headquarters, he finally meets the man he has been sharing dreams with for over a year—the man he fell in love with—but Ifan doesn't seem to know him. When danger comes, Misha doesn't know whether to turn to Ifan or run for his life.

Love has a strange way of finding us when we are not looking for it. Ifan and Misha’s story is no exception.

Misha had spent his whole life being used and abused. He is one of those characters you cannot wait to see get a happily ever after because they are just so deserving. His only salvation through of the torment was dreams of his mate. I cannot say I would have the same outlook on life he did. Even though he had every right to have a chip on his shoulder, he still managed to try to see the good in the world. It would have been completely understandable if he never trusted anyone again, yet he not only trusts Ifan, he finds it in his heart to trust a few other folks as well.

Ifan is my kind of man. Ever the recluse, he thought he had everything he needed in the world, until he met Misha. Being a very private homebody myself, I could completely understand Ifan’s reluctance to take a mate. While I understand his need to be on his own, I would not mind being stuck with him for a few days or weeks in a cabin because he is one attractive kitty. Even if his looks did not attract me, his solitary alpha personality would certainly do the trick.

The conflict really helped move the story forward. It completely enthralled me from beginning to end and left me wanting more. As usual with Stormy Glenn books, I found myself up way past my bedtime saying to myself "just one more chapter", then picked up the story as soon as I woke up in the morning. It was over way too soon and I cannot wait for the next installment of the Midnight Mating Series.

The Outlaw takes a Madam by Angela Claire

The Outlaw takes a Madam by Angela Claire
Publisher: Siren Publishing
Genre: Historical
Length: Short Story (129 pgs)
Other: M/F
Rating: 4 cherries
Reviewed by Bittersweet

Fast gun Luke Scott finds himself on the run from the law. He hides out in the small Colorado town where his twin brother, Jack, is the doctor. When Sarah Foster unexpectedly pays a midnight visit while Jack is out on a house call, Luke has no choice but to pretend to be his brother…a pretense he keeps up even as he woos the hot beauty.

Sarah has secrets of her own, though, including that this respectable miss is really a madam…the behind-the-scenes madam of the local whorehouse. When Luke and Sarah become lovers, Jack gets caught in the middle when Sarah mistakes him during the day for his brother.

Add one corrupt posse, one anxious father-to-be, and one twin brother caught in a lovers' triangle, and the path to true love for Luke and Sarah is anything but easy.

Can one outlaw and one madam drop their disguises long enough to fall in love?

This book started with a bang... literally! Someone was attacking a character named Luke and there was some talking and a gun shot. I admit I was a bit confused until the author clearly explained what had occurred during the prologue.

What really got me hooked on this book was Luke. Much like the heroine, Sarah, I didn’t know how my adoration of him happened, but it did. There is just something in the way he's depicted that makes him very desirable. Besides, the more I read about him and the way he started having feelings for Sarah the more I fell for him too.

The sex was hot, intense and very well described. I particularly loved their little role-playing moments. The tender moments were there too and were extremely sweet. Who knew an outlaw could have such a kind heart?

My only disappointment was not getting to know a little more about Luke’s brother, Jack. Perhaps in another story? Nonetheless, The Outlaw Takes a Madam, is both a tender and hot read that will leave you smiling.

Make You Sweat by Pia Veleno

Make You Sweat by Pia Veleno
Publisher: Loose Id Publishing
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (163 pgs)
Other: M/M, Anal Play
Rating: 4 cherries
Reviewed by Coreopsis

Ready for change, Tyler Pierce has the whole summer ahead of him when he flies to Sand Piper Beach to turn over a new leaf. Sun, swimming, exercise, he'll return home a new man, sexy and buff. Best of all, several states away from home and college, no one but his dad knows him, so he can muddle through the challenges of getting fit without friends laughing at him.

During his first visit to the fitness center, Tyler meets the sculpted and toned Cody Dawson, fitness instructor and sexy gay man. Not only does Cody help Tyler learn how to use the strength training equipment, but he crashes through Tyler's fantasies and lures him into bed.

Just a passing fling, Tyler decides. Cody, after all, could get any number of better looking men without even trying. Besides, the summer doesn't last forever and, too soon, Tyler will return to campus leaving Cody to the ex who wants him back. A summer fling can grow into something more, but it's up to Tyler to recognize if it's true love or just heated summer lust.

This is a book you shouldn’t judge by its cover, meaning the cover for Make You Sweat looks kind of like something you might see on the front of a comic book. This is a book I’m glad I didn’t pass up.

A touching sweet story of young love lay within the pages and had me falling in love with the story and the characters. Tyler Pierce is a college student who has come to spend the summer with his estranged father. He has high hopes of filling out his scrawny thin frame and becoming what he thinks other men find attractive. Tyler is a good guy but his lack of self-confidence has him questioning everything and everyone. He’s a character that most people could identify with and this author did a good job writing about a person’s insecurities that hold them back in life.

Cody Dawson lives in the apartment above Tyler and he takes a quick liking to the newcomer. Cody is dealing with his own issues; a jealous ex-boyfriend that won’t take a hint and trying to find his way through accomplishing his own career aspirations. This is a character who wants to be in a relationship. He believes in love and wants all that goes along with being in love. Cody’s big heart and desire to forgive really endeared him to me.

Tyler and Cody meet in the gym and Cody takes it upon himself to show Tyler the ins and outs of weight training. Besides being extremely attractive he’s also a trainer, so Tyler feels he’s hit his own personal lottery. Tyler is jaded and thinks that a man like Cody would never be interested in him. Within in just a few pages Cody shows Tyler how wrong he is.

A relationship begins but Tyler is only there for the summer so the constant doubts mixed with the inevitable is what stirs the main conflict in this story. Tyler’s constant insecurities about his body put a drain on this relationship but Cody is there to show Tyler he has so much to offer to another person, mainly to Cody.

There are a few conflicts in this story that keep it moving along, carrying the reader page to page. There’s Tyler’s low self-esteem, Cody’s ex-boyfriend trying to win him back, and Tyler still being in the closet regarding his sexual orientation where his family is concerned. This story doesn’t lack in the drama department and is written in a very realistic way that makes it believable.

I was really happy with the resolution of this story but it left me wanting more. These were two characters I became invested in and wanted to see where life takes them. Young love is always a fresh and sweet thing to read about and this story delivered. If you’re a reader who likes to read about the joys and struggles with meeting that first love, this is the story for you.

Ever Fallen In Love by Wendi Zwaduk

Ever Fallen In Love by Wendi Zwaduk
Publisher: Total-E-Bound
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short Story (79 Pages)
Other: M/F, BDSM, Spanking, Anal Sex
Rating: 4.5 Cherries
Reviewed by Foxglove

Tucker lost the love of his life once, but this time, he’s not taking no for an answer.

Once a driver, always a driver...

Racing consumes Tucker Poston’s life. Until he sees her again...Megan Rodney. She’s the one person to come between him and his ride. She’s the only woman to understand him. The only woman he’s ever loved. Circumstances tore their love apart. Now he’s determined to show her the contents of his soul, even if it means losing his heart.

Being a driver doesn’t warm his lonely nights. Too bad she’s not interested.

Megan’s not about to fall for his smooth lines and slick image. She’s got a good life as a team owner for a stock car team. Still, memories of their love affair burn bright in her mind. What’s a girl to do when the man of her dreams, the man who pushed her away, wants a second chance at forever?

Wendi Zwaduk creates the most delightful characters, people you care about and want to know better. She continues to bring out the best in her characters, and I really love her world of small towns and familiar places.

Ten years ago, Tucker Poston walked away from the best thing to ever cross his path. He wanted fame and glory on the racing circuit, and told Megan he didn’t love her. Ten years later, he can’t get her out of his heart, and wants to make things right with her. Megan heads the Blitz Racing team, and is trying to make a success of it, while trying to keep her slimy ex-husband Rick at arms length. Even though he is married to someone else now, Rick is convinced Megan still wants him--and he wants Blitz Racing and Megan. But when Rick uses dirty tricks and violence to try and get his way, Tucker comes to the rescue. Can these two outwit Rick at his own game? Will Megan risk her heart one more time with Tucker? Can these two finally take the checkered flag in the race of love?

This is a story of love lost and found, and new beginnings rising from the ashes of broken dreams. I love the passion that Ms Zwaduk brings to each and every book she writes, and I look forward to each new release.

Megan is smart, determined and more than a little sassy. She wants to keep the racing team, and doesn’t want to fall under Tucker’s spell again. She doesn’t plan on making that mistake a second time. She loved Tucker ten years ago, and he stomped on her heart with both boots, so she is being cautious where he is concerned. I enjoyed watching her realize that Tucker has grown up, and that his priorities have changed. And I really loved when she was able to foil all of Rick’s dirty deeds, with the help of her assistant Janine.

Tucker is handsome, sexy and ready to admit he made the biggest mistake of his life leaving Megan to look for fame and fortune. He realizes his life will never be worth anything without her. I enjoyed watching as he bared his soul to her, knowing that he could still lose her in the end. I was happy to see him go with honesty, and be totally open with Megan. He is vulnerable, and worried that he has lost again.

I found this to be a romantic and passionate story of love reborn, with lots of hot and a bit kinky bedroom action, and not always in the bedroom. There is some very creative use of Tucker’s car hood here, and a surprise for Tucker and Rick when Megan outfoxes her ex to get exactly what she wants. The secondary characters are a delight, and I want to see more of Janine in the future. This is a marvelous blend of Ms. Zwaduk’s love for romance and her passion for racing, and it makes one very hot and fantastic reading experience. One warning, though, keep the fan on high and have plenty of cold drinks with this one.

Static by LA Witt

Static by LA Witt
Publisher: Amber Quill Press
Genre: Contemporary, Sci-fi/Fantasy
Length: Full Length (287 pgs)
Other: M/F, M/M, Anal Play
Rating: 4 cherries
Reviewed by Anemone

Damon Bryce is worried sick when he doesn’t hear from his girlfriend after she visits her estranged parents, but when he checks up on her, he’s in for the shock of his life—she’s a shifter, part of a small percentage of the population who can shift genders at will. Thanks to her parents, though, she’s been forcibly given an implant that leaves her static—unable to shift—and male.

Alex Nichols desperately wants the implant removed, but getting it out isn’t nearly as easy as putting it in. The surgery is expensive and dangerous. Left in, the implant carries its own set of risks, with the potential to cripple or even kill him. On top of that, he’s carefully kept his identity a secret from more people in his life than just Damon, and his parents aren’t the only ones appalled by shifters.

Stripped of half his identity and facing serious physical effects and social ramifications, Alex needs Damon more than ever, but he doesn’t see how their relationship can get through this unscathed.

Especially if Alex is a static male permanently...

Static is not your average shifter story. Alex is part of a small percentage of the population who can shift genders at will. When her boyfriend Damon is unable to get in touch with her after a visit to her strict parents, he panics and thinks the worst. A man answers her door, and Damon has no idea his life is about to be thrown for a loop. Alex’s family forces a procedure that implants a chip that forces the user to be one gender and Alex becomes a static male, the gender he was when he visits his family. The only problem was Alex never told Damon about her shifter nature and Alex has only been female around Damon up until now.

Static is an incredibly thorough journey through many different topics on gender and sexuality. Ms. Witt did a remarkable job on showing us a sample of how it is to feel like you are in the wrong body. While the plot was solid, it turned a little preachy and repetitive after a while, plus Alex’s freak out when Damon found out was far-fetched. Still, the tension between Damon and Alex was hot and sensual and their story line didn’t disappoint.

Ms. Witt has a beautiful story here of love conquering all. If you like gay romance but want a story with a twist, you’ll want to pick up this one. With a plot that stays with you after you close the book and characters that stay with you, this is a story I’ll be picking up again.

Delicious Danger by Desiree Holt

Delicious Danger by Desiree Holt
Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Genre: Contemporary, Mystery/Suspense
Length: Full Length, (226 pages)
Other: M/F, anal sex
Rating: 4.5 Cherries
Reviewed by Carnation

Kelly was shocked when her Caucasian Ovcharka, Xena, bonded with Rick Latrobe. The dogs are known for linking with only their owners. She’s even more shocked at the intense sexual heat that sizzles between her and Rick. When she tumbles into bed with him at the very first opportunity, experiencing a night of erotic bliss in his arms, she knows they have something special.

But Xena is very much aware when an attempt is made on Rick’s life, and the dog drives Kelly crazy with signals of danger. Rick is nearly killed and Kelly and Xena are ferried to the secret clinic where he’s recovering. As Rick heals and they race to find the mastermind behind the attempted murder, the lust between them heats to the boiling point.

Did you know that there is a breed of dog know for its psychic abilities? Kelly Monroe's dog, Xena is one of these. This confident and sweet heroine makes her living raising those unusual dogs: Caucasian Ovcharkas. When she meets Phoenix agent, Rick Latrobe- with a little gentle guidance from Xena, fireworks go off between them both.

But soon the dog is giving Kelly mental images of danger for Rick, with whom she bonded immediately. After a serious attempt on Rick's life that spins the trio into a whirlwind of danger from international criminals, they learn to depend on her for guarding security and psychic warnings and communication. Kelly and Xena are soon accepted into the agency, which values and employs those with psychic abilities. The three go into hiding and along with others from the Phoenix Agency begin a thrilling and complex mission.

This blasting-hot story is truly delicious in it's irresistible, sexy, suspenseful, thrilling way. In fact, sumptuous. I loved this book. It has the perfect blend of crime adventure, psychic interest and searing, sweet romance. The psychic theme that is a feature of all the books in the Phoenix Agency series is given an extra spin in this book which adds dimension and a fuzzy, warm bonus for pet lovers.

The attraction between Kelly and Rick brings them sweltering heat from the moment that they meet. I was so impressed with the compatible fit and the emotional power between the two. Ms. Holt really knows how to write an extremely erotic tale with believable characters that take over the pages and are poignantly memorable. I enjoy the way she develops her characters over the entire series and brings them back in every book to play an integral role. This makes every book personal, with an evolving interest.

The sex scenes are always scorching and fit elegantly into the story in a smoothly realistic manner. You will truly need a fan or AC for this one. Rick is a hot, masculine alpha male with a soft, gentle side. I couldn't help but fall in love with him right along with Kelly and Xena. A stronger hero would be hard to find.

As with the previous two books in the series, there were a few editing errors, but this one had fewer. If not for that I would have given this excellent book the highest rating. The plot was strong, but the love affair took center stage in my sensibilities. I hope Ms. Holt gifts her readers with further installments in this series. It is truly unique and special.

If you love a romance of the most exciting kind with a great suspenseful mystery, I advise you pick up a copy of Delicious Danger.

Landfall by Lori Toland

Landfall by Lori Toland
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short Story (41 pgs)
Other: M/M, anal sex
Rating: 4 cherries
Reviewed by Nymphaea

ER nurse and hospice worker Jared White is caught up in more than just high winds when a hurricane traps him with Deputy Fire Chief Mike Brown. The handsome firefighter has had Jared drooling every time he visits the ER, but as far as Jared knows, Mike is straight – until a downed bridge strands them alone in an empty firehouse. Will their passionate encounter outlast the storm?

Two hot guys, a disaster and lots of steam. Sound like a book you’d be interested in? Then grab Landfall by Lori Toland. I’m so glad I got to read this book.

Ms. Toland nabbed me from page one. I had to know what would happen next and got completely engrossed in these two men. The book might be short and have sweet parts, but let me tell you, there’s plenty of steam in those few pages, too. The writing flowed well and I couldn’t put the book down.

I totally enjoyed Jared and what he was trying to do. He leads with his heart right out in the open and though he’s got his shy moments, he’s devoted to his patients. Running out into a hurricane might be considered a little foolish, but knowing what he was there to do, I commended him.

Now I have to admit, I’m not usually a huge fan of first person narratives. That said, this book didn’t bother me. What did stick with me and I’m still on the fence about was Mike. I’d have loved to have had a little bit of the book in his point of view. There were things he did that I didn’t really understand and would’ve loved to know his motivations behind them. Still, the book is white hot and I’ve read it again and again.

I’ll be on the lookout for more books by Ms. Toland as this book introduced me to a new author I want to read more of.

Lone Wolf by Shelley Munro

Lone Wolf by Shelley Munro
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Short Story (137 pgs)
Other: M/M, Anal Play
Rating: 4.5 cherries
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

When you fall out of step, that’s when everything falls into place.

R.J. Blake begins a new session tutoring young werewolves in the old ways—before the introduction of the shift-suppressing drugs that allow their kind to live secretly among humans. He expects nothing out of the ordinary. Until sexy, smart, aggravating-as-hell Corey Wilson arrives. Older than the others, son of a powerful Los Angeles pack leader, Corey is an instant temptation he cannot afford.

The last thing Corey wants is three months stuck in the Yellowstone wilderness, followed by the stifling life his father has all mapped out for him. One glimpse of R.J., though, sparks a determination to seduce the older man before he leaves. Yet as R.J. guides him through the sometimes terrifying process of rediscovering his heritage, a deepening respect calls to his artistic soul and fuels a burst of creativity.

When their time comes to an end, Corey senses hesitation behind R.J.’s insistence that theirs was simply a summer fling. Inspiring him to take a leap of faith with consequences neither of them saw coming. A dangerous plot that reaches from the heart of their love to the highest office in the land…

Werewolves falling in love when the odds are against them is always a good draw. Add secrets, lies and a conspiracy and a reader is in for a suspenseful treat.

The main focus of this latest story by the talented Ms. Munro is about two mismatched men who find each other quite by accident. What follows is a gripping and dramatic tale of heartache, revelations and hope. There’s also a lot of danger and the reason knocked my socks off. I figured out part of it towards the end but so much more was going on that neither hero had an inkling of just how far the twisted ambition would reach.

Corey, one of the heroes, does an amazing amount of growth during the course of the book. In fact, he is the one that carries the story. From city Goth boy to man, from hurt puppy to avenging wolf, Lone Wolf encompasses it all. I also liked how his dialogue changed as he did as well as his outlook and his reaction to things. He starts off passive-aggressive and ends up being a man who stands up for his beliefs, his dreams and the man he intends to be. Eventually, there’s a lot to respect in his character.

R. J. is a totally different story. He’s already a man’s man – sure in his skin, his place in life and who and what he is. What really threw him for a loop was Corey. The young hero makes R.J. sit up and take notice of all the things that lack in his life but because he’s older, he is afraid that what he wants in impossible. Plus, Corey inadvertently makes R. J. face a demon from his past. Talk about angst.

As with most romances, the protagonists tend to reason out and justify why they should succumb to their desires. They come up with all sorts of reasons to make it fly, calling it a vacation fling, scratching the itch or getting it out of their system. That never ever works and it continues to hold true for R.J. and Corey. They do fall in love and it’s tragic that they have to hide it, fight it and deny it. Oh, the torture! Made for great reading.

When Corey and R.J. get together, it’s a howling good time. Ms. Munro once again creates scenes that make the pages steam yet a reader always is provided that emotional connection that makes everything more poignant, more powerful and more relevant. That being said, there is one scene where they consummate their attraction totally in wolf form. It didn’t bother me at all because it fit and made sense. But just in case there are some readers who, no matter how well done or how much it fits with the story, will give this type of scene a wide berth, be forewarned to skip that part and read all the rest. Because the entire story has value to a romance reader due to its having heroes that have to fight for their love to survive. It’s classic.

The editing was perfect, the dialogue provided clear insight into Corey and R.J. and the antics at Yellowstone were entertaining and hot – and I’m not talking about Old Faithful. The secondary characters contributed important motivation at times for much of the plot movement. My favorite is Teague and a reader will find out why when they read the book. Hal reminded me of a retired John Wayne. As for Corey’s mom, well, I felt so bad for him. She’s not what I’d hope she be at all. So sad, so clueless. My least favorite secondary characters were Hal’s ‘cousins’. There was something about how they were written that didn’t quite fit with the flow of everything. I understood that they were necessary to the conflict. Emma’s character confused me because it seemed like she was more than just what I read. I wish I could be more specific. Probably it’s just me and other readers will have no issues. That’s the beauty of books.

Lone Wolf is a suspenseful and dramatic story of two men who fall in love even though the truth could tear them apart. It shows that opposites do attract and love doesn’t recognize werewolf-made boundaries and unnatural measures that try to stop nature. It’s a well thought out and crafted tale that balances sexy hotness for the heart with suspenseful intrigue for the mind. Paranormal romance readers are in for a great read when they pick up their own copy of Lone Wolf.

Bite With Height by Lucy Felthouse

Bite With Height by Lucy Felthouse
Publisher: Noble Romance Publishing, LLC
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Short Story (22 pages)
Other: F/F
Rating: 4 cherries
Reviewed by Amaryllis

When Meg spots a young woman alone in the Pigalle district of Paris at night, she's intrigued. She has to know her story and find out why she looks so sad and alone. After introducing herself, Meg realizes that she and Grace have a lot in common. But when they decide to go and grab a drink together, they discover a mutual love that could bond them forever.

A lesbian vampire with romantic taste in architecture falls for a het chick on the rebound. Meg is a modern day vampire living in Paris who struts her stuff down the Boulevard de Clichy. She preys on the evil and depraved. She’s fueled by anger towards men who are mean or abusive to women. She’s a strong, no-nonsense lady with a good heart and deep sense of compassion. Grace is unsure, hurt badly by a recent break up and feeling lonely, unwanted and unfulfilled.

Meg sees Grace and decides that she likes what she sees and she goes after it. Grace seems mesmerized instantly by the sophisticated, confident Meg. Meg shares her great love of Sacré-Coeur basilica with Grace. They grow closer over coffee and girl-talk. They really click. There’s no significant interpersonal conflict between the lovers as they come together. Most of the conflict is intrapersonal for Grace. She’s feeling poorly about her break up and the fact that her boyfriend didn’t turn her on in bed. She never reached orgasm with him. She worries that she is boring. She’s so confused now.

Meg is all sympathy and Grace is a grateful sponge soaking up the attention. Once the ice is broken about Meg being a lesbian-vampire and having lesbian-vampire desires for Grace, Grace responds eagerly. She didn’t know until right this moment, but this is what she’s always wanted and waited for her whole life, sharing sex with a gorgeous female vampire. The sex is hot and sexily written. Through Meg’s protective and rather dominant lovemaking and their sharing, Grace finds her true strength. The strength to love and be loved.

I really enjoyed this short, sexy story with lots of girl-talk, coffee with a vampire twist in the shadow of Sacré-Coeur. I’d gladly recommend it to others who enjoy paranormal and F/F Romance. If you’re in the mood for an uncomplicated, quick satisfying read with F/F romance, don’t miss Bite With Height.

Plus Ones by Hank Edwards

Plus Ones by Hank Edwards
Publisher: Loose ID
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (152 pages)
Other: M/M, Multiple Partners, Anal play/intercourse, toys
Rating: 5 Cherries
Reviewed by Honeysuckle

Each time Paul and Evan meet at another friend's same-sex wedding, they're interested...but the timing is always wrong because one of them is involved with someone new. They try to make do by falling in and out of the beds of several different men as they search for their own Mr. Right, and along the way, they learn new skills, like the secrets to Tantric sex, or the moves required to succeed at lube wrestling.

Yet all through the hot summer months, they flirt and eye each other by the buffet tables and open bars of reception halls crowded with men, even though they never get a chance to take their relationship to the next level. When the summer draws to a close and their two best friends are about to marry, the stars might finally align for Paul and Evan. They might just get to be each others' forever 'plus one'.

Sometimes the perfect man is standing right in front of you and sometimes you knock him down and spill a drink on him thanks to a large, amorous, horse-of-a-dog!

Are you looking for a character that you instantly fall in love with and want to bring home with you to take care of? Let me introduce you to Evan. Bless his heart, he doesn’t have a problem getting dates, just getting the right date. He’s ready to settle down and knows what he wants in a life partner and after the summer of love and weddings that sweeps through Massachusetts he most definitely knows what (and who) he doesn’t want! Is it so hard to find someone who gets his humor, someone ready for a commitment, someone without scary issues…someone like Paul?

Mr. Edwards really did a fantastic job of character building with both Evan and Paul. The point of view in the story moves smoothly between Evan and Paul so the reader is able to see the action from both sides. The journey to their elusive HEA is often humorous and sometimes painful but worth every crazy dating adventure once they realize the amazing chemistry they feel is genuine.

If you love a soundtrack with your romance, play Peter Cetera’s 80’s ballad After All. There’s a line in the song that says “After all that we’ve been through, it all comes down to me and you. I guess it’s meant to be, Forever you and me, After all”. If Paul and Evan didn’t play this at their wedding, I would be sorely disappointed, after reading their story.

Do yourself a favor and pick a copy of Plus Ones. Mr. Edwards is a truly talented writer and I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve read from him so far. He’s an auto buy for this reviewer and an easy recommend.