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Book Blast!!!  Elemental Love by L M Somerton with Excerpt and Giveaway

3/29/2016

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Author Name: LM Somerton

Book Name: Elemental Love

Release Date: March 29, 2016

Blurb: An untrained warlock is a dangerous man to love. On his twenty-first birthday, Evrain Brookes discovers he is an elemental warlock. The spell suppressing his talent lifts and he has to get used to a whole new existence. The protection that kept him safe during his childhood is gone, his skills are wild and uncontrolled and there are those that seek to use him for their own gain. Evrain’s grandmother is a witch, his godfather another warlock. Between them they do their best to keep Evrain on the right path. He learns that in order to gain control of his formidable powers, he will need to ‘channel’ through a life partner, a process that happens only with consent and through love. But how will he ever find a man prepared to put up with a Dominant warlock for a boyfriend? Dominic Castine has no idea that Evrain’s grandmother sees him as a prospective partner for Evrain. He tends her garden and she teaches him about herbs—a trade-off they both enjoy. He is drawn to Evrain’s charismatic presence but doesn’t understand why he wants to drop to his knees and submit to him. When Agatha is murdered, Evrain and Dominic are thrown together as she manipulates them from beyond the grave. Dominic becomes the pawn in a terrifying game between warlocks whose powers he barely comprehends. In the end, lives will depend on his courage, his willingness to grant Evrain control and the power of love. Reader Advisory: This book contains scenes of kidnap and a reference to attempted sexual assault. Pages or Words: 59,472 words

Categories: BDSM, Contemporary, Gay Fiction, M/M Romance, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy

Excerpt: Twenty-one years ago… “Closed doors, I hate closed doors. Why don’t I have the power to see through them? That, at least, would be a useful ability.” Three-hundred-year-old floorboards creaked as Gregory Thanet paced the galleried landing of Wenlock House. He walked up and down past three doors, each fashioned from heavy oak and furnished with black iron hinges and handles. Two stood ajar, revealing hints of unoccupied bedrooms, but the third was firmly closed, a solid barrier to unwanted intrusion and the cause of Gregory’s current frustration. “For goodness’ sake, Gregory, you’re wearing out the carpet. Be still.” Gregory’s companion leaned against the gallery rail and gave him an exasperated look. Gregory paused his march briefly, shot a glare at the woman but then resumed his pacing with a grunt. “Leave me be, woman, I’ll be still when we know that everything is as it should be.” “Nature moves at her own pace, you know that. There’s no changing it—nor should we. What will be will be.” “Stop trying to sound like some wise and ancient soothsayer, Agatha. You’re not helping and it doesn’t suit you. The kid is a week late already—you’d think he would be keen to greet the world by now. When he’s grown I’ll remember that he kept me up half the night. I’m sure I’ll get plenty of opportunities for revenge when he’s older.” Gregory stopped and folded his arms across his chest. “I might not be able to see the future, Gregory Thanet, but even a complete idiot could have predicted that my grandson would arrive today.” Gregory examined his companion. Agatha looked tired. Her skin was quite smooth, marred only by a few laughter lines around her hazel eyes, eyes that still sparkled with warmth and intelligence. Her silver hair was swept smoothly back and fastened with a comb, intricately fashioned from beaten copper. She remained an attractive woman, who must have possessed great beauty in her youth, but she looked paler than usual and she rested her weight against the banister rather than standing in her usual ramrod-straight stance. Gregory experienced a rare pang of guilt that he might be adding to his friend’s worries. “All Hallows’ Eve. There’s a lot of power in the air right now.” Agatha cocked her head to one side and closed her eyes as if listening to sounds that only she could hear. “My grandson will be with us soon and there is little that you or I can do to change the course of his destiny.” For a moment, a worried frown creased her forehead. “It is not certain that he will inherit the gift.” Gregory sighed. “In this, you deceive yourself, Agatha. The calling has skipped a generation. History dictates that the next born will be unusually powerful and that power will be magnified even further in a male child.” “There has been no warlock in my family line for over five hundred years, only witches. Why are you so convinced that it will change now? We know of only three others living, Gregory. You, Symeon Malus and Constantine De Vries. It would be a chance in a billion.” Gregory scratched the tip of his long nose. “I should have bought a lottery ticket then. All the portents point to it, the date alone… It is time. Time the triangle became a square.” “I’m not sure Symeon Malus will ever be part of that square,” Agatha said. “I don’t see him as the cornerstone of anything with value or integrity.” “True, and if the child is born with the power, you and I will need to ensure that Symeon’s gaze remains elsewhere.” Gregory shivered. “I swear to the goddess, this country is the dampest place on earth. It’s all right for you, Agatha, you live in the second dampest place on the planet. You’re used to groping through fog. I want to get back to Florida. I need to—before I develop trench foot.” “Pah. What you really want is to get back to Coryn. You’re a ship without an anchor when the two of you are apart. He could have come to see the child too, you know.” Agatha grabbed a stray hair and pushed it back into a restraining grip. “Coryn hates airplanes, you know that. I would never ask him to fly across the pond unless it was a life or death situation.” “If it were, you wouldn’t have to ask him.” “He reckons that if men were designed to fly through the air, then human cannonball would be a much more popular career choice.” Agatha snorted. “I think his phobia is a myth. He just uses it as an excuse to get a few days’ break from your—” She whistled and twiddled her fingers in the air. Gregory rolled his eyes. “Twiddling your fingers that way will get you turned into an aardvark. It takes practice to bend your digits into shapes imbued with power. After thirty-two years together, Coryn is more than capable of dealing with my—” He whistled. “As you so delicately put it.” Agatha snorted. “Men with magic! Whoever the hell thought that would be a good idea was seriously damaged.” She shook her head slowly. Gregory grinned and waggled a silver eyebrow. The mewling cry of a newborn sounded from behind the closed bedroom door, and Agatha allowed her lips to curve into a smile. “Well, it seems the waiting is over. I have a grandchild—and, from the sound of that bellowing, he’s a fine, healthy boy.” “About damned time.” Gregory grouched. He still smiled right along with Agatha. Agatha crossed the landing and knocked softly on the door, which soon swung open to admit her. Gregory followed her inside, pushing down his excitement. The bedroom was bathed in the cool light of a new dawn. The soft green of the walls seemed to shimmer and the wooden floor was burnished with gold. Gregory looked around in wonder, then dragged his gaze back to the bed. “Lyssa, James—congratulations, my dears!” Agatha clapped her hands together in delight as she walked over to the bed. Gregory hung back a little, giving her the privilege of first viewing. Agatha’s daughter, Lyssa, sat up in bed propped against a mound of pillows. She was pale, her eyes shadowed in the purple of exhaustion, but still she glowed with radiant happiness. A small bundle wrapped in a pale blue blanket rested in her arms. Her husband, James, sat nervously on the edge of the mattress, looking utterly shell-shocked but delighted as the midwife fussed around them. Lyssa held the baby out to her mother with a smile. “His name is Evrain. Evrain James Brookes. Hold him, Mum, isn’t he beautiful?” Gregory held his breath as Agatha reached for the small bundle and cradled the child in her arms. She pushed the blanket back from the baby’s head, and a mop of thick black hair was revealed, sticking out in all directions. “He is absolutely gorgeous, darling. Didn’t you both do well!” Agatha stroked the child’s hair. Gregory moved in closer. Tiny fists punched at the air, so Gregory offered the boy his own hand. Immediately, the baby grabbed hold, wrapping his fingers around Gregory’s offering with surprising strength. Gregory grinned at Agatha in delight, then looked back to the baby. His eyes were the dark blue of every newborn but, as Gregory focused his senses on the child, he could see that they would become dark green. Just a shade deeper than his own. Cooing softly, Agatha muttered a lilting incantation and rocked the baby gently. To Lyssa and James, the song probably sounded like a lullaby, but Gregory knew a spell when he heard one. Tiny eyelids closed and the baby slept. Gregory’s finger was released. After a few more minutes of cuddling, Agatha reluctantly returned the baby to his parents.

Buy the book:

https://www.pride-publishing.com/book/elemental-love http://www.amazon.co.uk/Ebooks-Elemental-Love-Warlocks-Book-1-ebook/dp/B01BVE0DYQ/ http://www.amazon.com/Elemental-Love-Warlocks-Book-1-ebook/dp/B01BVE0DYQ/

Meet the author:

L M lives in a small village in the English countryside, surrounded by rolling hills, cows and sheep. She started writing to fill time between jobs and is now firmly and unashamedly addicted. She loves the English weather, especially the rain, and adores a thunderstorm. She loves good food, warm company and a crackling fire. She's fascinated by the psychology of relationships, especially between men, and her stories contain some subtle (and not so subtle) leanings towards BDSM.

Where to find the author:

Pride Publishing page: https://www.pride-publishing.com/author/lm-somerton Website: www.lmsomerton.com Blog: http://www.lmsomerton.com/#!blog/c112v Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lmsomertonwrites/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/lmsomerton LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lmsomerton Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/lmsomerton/ Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/L.M.-Somerton/e/B00AV9XRW8 Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6623749.L_M_Somerton

Publisher: Pride Publishing Cover Artist: Emmy Ellis

Tour Dates & Stops: March 29, 2016 Parker Williams, Divine Magazine, Outrageous Heroes, Alpha Book Club, Boys on the Brink Reviews, Anna Butler Fiction, Wicked Faerie's Tales and Reviews, A.M. Leibowitz, Making It Happen, Bayou Book Junkie, Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents, Full Moon Dreaming, Gay Media Reviews, 3 Chicks After Dark MM Good Book Reviews, Molly Lolly, BFD Book Blog, Man2ManTastic, Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words, The Fuzzy, Fluffy World of Chris T. Kat, Carly’s Book Reviews, Up All Night, Read All Day, Decadent Delights, Book Lovers 4Ever, The Hat Party, Three Books Over The Rainbow, Velvet Panic, Foxylutely Book Reviews, Inked Rainbow Reads

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Broken by Nicola Haken Blog Tour !!   5 Star Review and Giveaway

3/18/2016

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Title: Broken
Author: Nicola Haken
Genre: M/M Contemporary Romance
Release Date: February 29, 2016
When Theodore Davenport decides to switch his mundane job for a career, he walks into Holden House Publishing with enthusiasm and determination to succeed. As he settles into his new role, makes new friends, and dreams of making it to the top, everything is going to plan. Until he meets James Holden, CEO of Holden House. James Holden hasn’t been able to stop thinking about his encounter with the timid man he met in a club bathroom last week, and when he discovers the one haunting his dreams is an employee, he can’t seem to stop himself from pursuing him. Just a little fun - that’s what James tells himself. He can’t afford to care for someone who can never reciprocate, not once they find out who he really is. James believes nobody deserves the burden of being attached to him. He’s a complicated man. Damaged. Difficult. Demanding. Broken. Is Theodore strong enough to confront James’ demons? More importantly, is James? (M/M romance. Not suitable for readers under 18 years of age due to language and sexual content. ***Please note*** This book contains scenes of self harm, mental illness and suicidal ideation which may pose as a trigger, or be uncomfortable for some readers.)
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First of all, I should say keep a box of tissues nearby when you read this, as you will need them!! Secondly, I should also mention the warning given before you read the book, that it contains scenes of self harm, mental illness and suicidal ideation. Although upsetting, it was necessary part of the book.  I could not put this book down, I just sat and read and read until I had finished. I am totally in awe of the way that Nicola Haken manages to get the emotions over in her books - hence the warning for the tissues.

Theodore and James meet in a club bathroom, but names are not exchanged, and neither expect to meet the other again - although Theodore has never forgotten the man from the bathroom.  When Theodore changes jobs, he is amazed to find out that the owner of the company is none other than the man from the bathroom.

Although both vastly different in character and temperament, Theodore and James seem to hit it off, and spend time together getting to know each other.  James seems to be confused  by his feelings for Theodore at times, he believes it may be love, but really isn't sure, and he also considers himself flawed and broken, and not worthy of being loved either.

As they get to know each other, James confesses to Theodore about his bipolar, and as they grow closer, he explains more about his life. growing up.  Theodore is so upset at what James has had to endure, and can't believe that nobody noticed his distress.  James explained most things to Theodore, even the pain in he felt inside, which in turn made him attempt taking his own life.

Soon, Theodore is practically living with James, and things seem to be going really well, until after a visit from James mother seems to send James on a very fast downward spiral.  He seems to deliberately try to start a fight with Theodore, and then tells him that he will drop any items of his back at his workstation.  Theodore goes to find James at his flat, and finds him in a state, but his presence seems to calm James somewhat.  Theodore incorrectly thinks that James is ok now, but he could not be more wrong, James has come to the end of the road again, and is planning his escape from his life.

Theo was with his brother when he found James, and he completely fell apart.  I think in part he was upset with himself for ignoring the warning signs, for believing James when he said he was fine.  When James does come round in the hospital, he tells them that he doesn't want to see Theodore, and his wishes are respected.

Now starts the biggest fight that Theodore has ever had, and that was to try and show James that he loved him still, that nothing would stop that.  Theodore never gave up, and still went to the hospital every day even though he wasn't allowed to see James.

I have to say I loved the character of the Doctor in the Psychiatric Hospital,  for once James seemed to have a Doctor who understood him, and knew the right way to finally get James to talk. This was the start of a turning point for James. Theodore was still visiting, even though James would not see him.  The more James sees Peter (his Doctor), the more you can see a change with him, and for the better. 

Does James ever relent and see Theodore?  What can Theodore do to ensure James believe that he loves him totally, his bipolar included? Will James ever believe that Theodore loves him - all of him? 

This book was really emotional at times, and others you will be smiling.  I had no idea about bipolar, and this story gave you an insight, not hiding anything, but not glamorising it either. If you love a great story, emotional roller coaster ride, then read this book, you will not regret it. I should also say here, be prepared to get really annoyed with one of the characters in the book - I did, to the extent that I wanted to reach in and hit the person!! 



“Broken is truly a remarkable book. I was blown away by it, by the raw and sincere way Ms. Haken took these men through the roller coaster of living with unrelenting demons. And now, as I sit here wondering if I have to courage to post this review, all I can think about is how far into my heart Theo and James have embedded themselves--and how I hope they never leave. I think it might be too hard to say goodbye...although maybe not as hard as it was find the words that I hope compel you to read this breathtaking book.” ~ Beth, Give Me Books 
“A stunning but achingly painful read” ~ Author Sloane Kennedy 
“This is an amazing book full of so much raw emotion that it gripped me and wouldn't let up. I felt like I was watching a movie in my head and I wanted to just jump in the book and give James a huge hug. Lots of FEELz in this book.. both good and bad.” ~ Alpha Book Club
Nicola lives in Rochdale, England with her husband and four children (six if you include the dog and cat!) She is the author the author of the m/m romance Souls of the Knight series, and is currently working on a standalone with new boys, James and Theo, due for release early 2016. When she is not busy playing with her imaginary book friends (or talking about them with real life friends!) she can usually be found carrying out her ordinary mum/housewife/all round slave duties. Oh, and if the kids ever ask, she moonlights as the Pink Power Ranger while they're sleeping...
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Mending The Rift by Chris T. Kat - Virtual Tour  - 4.5 Star Review, Excerpt, Author Interview and Giveaway

3/14/2016

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Author Name: Chris T. Kat

Book Name: Mending the Rift

Release Date: March 14, 2016

Blurb:

In a future where man’s ability to reproduce is severely compromised, humanity has adapted to survive. Breeders—male and female—have become precious commodities, and they are strictly guarded and subject to limitations. Luca Walker is a breeder. Though he knows what’s expected of him as the youngest son of the Northern Confederacy’s Vice President, he’s held out against the pressures of an arranged marriage because he longs to marry for love, not duty. But he’s been promised to Colonel Liam Smith and there’s little he can do about it, no matter that Luca is secretly in love with his bodyguard, Marcus Gray. When Luca finds himself pregnant with Marcus’s baby, Smith is furious and vows to take what is his—by force, if necessary. Now Luca must fight for his life and the life of his unborn child… as well as the love of Marcus and the happily ever after he’s always dreamed of.

Pages or Words: 68,000 words

Categories: M/M Romance, Science Fiction, MPREG

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When I was asked to review this, I jumped at the chance as I love Mpreg books!! I have no idea why, but perhaps I like reading about men experiencing the pain of childbirth!!

We meet Luca, who is a breeder, but although he was meant to have an arranged marriage, he has so far managed to delay any attempts to find a suitor, and complete the marriage expected of him.  Unbeknown to others, Luca is in love of his bodyguard Marcus.  However, he could not put off the arranged marriage forever, and was then promised to Colonel Liam Smith.

However, Luca then finds out he is pregnant, but this is much to his horror, as he had not given consent for this to happen.  He is devastated, and adamant he does not want the baby – until one of his father’s confess that the baby he is carrying is Marcus's. This then changes everything, and Marcus and Luca want a life together complete with their baby.

When the news gets to Colonel Liam Smith, he is totally livid, and he is adamant that Luca has been promised to him and the arranged marriage will take place, no matter that he is carrying another man’s child.  Luca and Marcus must now find a way to stay together, with their child, but have no idea how to do so, but it is Luca’s fathers that come to their aid this time.

I have to say, I totally loved the characters of Luca’s fathers – Nicholas and Gregory, they really added to the story, and I really enjoyed how they interacted with each other. Although Gregory was the one who came across as the dominant person in their relationship, he also had a gentle side that you saw a few times during the book.

Luca and Marcus believe that with the help of Nicholas and Gregory that things are now going their way, but then Luca is kidnapped….

I am not going to spoil what happens in the book, but will say you are taken on the ride of your life. I can pretty much guarantee that you won’t be able to put the book down, as it is full of twists and turns that you are not expecting, and that some people are not who they actually seem at first.... does this mean friend or foe??



Excerpt: Excerpt from Chapter Two:

Marcus rappelled off and stepped onto the ground with a crunch of his boots. Pointing at the opening with the askew ladder, he asked, “Don’t tell me you seriously considered climbing down this way.” Luca shrugged. “I’d have preferred spontaneous levitation, but it didn’t happen.” He yelped when Marcus put an arm around his torso and lifted him to his feet, as if he weighed nothing. “Hey!” Marcus silenced him with a glare, and Luca gritted his teeth while Marcus thumped dust off his clothes. “Your father is livid.” Luca swallowed. He’d expected worried, maybe a bit mad, but livid? His father never got furious at him. Not for long, anyway. Being the baby of the family had its perks. “Why?” “Why? Seriously, Luca, you have to ask why?” Marcus patted Luca’s behind more firmly than was strictly necessary. Luca shifted, trying to get away from Marcus’s arm. When that didn’t help, he slapped Marcus’s hands away and stepped aside. He couldn’t think when he was so close to Marcus—when the man touched him, he sent shivers up and down his spine. He ignored the glower Marcus directed at him. “Yes, seriously. He knows I don’t want to marry Smith. I don’t want anything to do with all that shit. I want to decide what I’m going to do with my life.” Marcus shook his head. “Smith is a good man. My brother Kyle worked for him. He said he always treated his people well. If you want I could try to get Kyle on the phone so you can talk to him. That is, if I can get a hold on him. Trust me, you’ll be in good hands.” “You don’t get it! I don’t want to be in good hands!” “No?” Marcus raised an eyebrow. Luca huffed, a small smile forming on his lips. “Well, yes, of course I want to be in good hands. But I want someone to love me, and not just for my ability to become pregnant. I want… you.” Luca’s heart thundered in his rib cage. There, he’d said it. The ball was in Marcus’s court. Sure, it had only been one night, and Marcus’s reaction afterward hadn’t been promising, but maybe he’d just been scared? Maybe he feared to lose his job? Nonetheless, there was more going on between them, and they both knew it. That one night had just been the last logical step. Luca regretted nothing. For a moment Marcus seemed startled, and there was a softness in his eyes that was solely reserved for Luca. The softness vanished too quickly for Luca’s liking. Instead, Luca was greeted with Marcus’s usual, scrutinizing gaze. “You don’t want me, and you better never mention this again. It was a mistake. Now get it out of your head and be a good boy.”

Buy the book:

eBook: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=7448

Paperback: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=7449

Paperback: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=7449

amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Mending-Rift-Chris-T-Kat-ebook/dp/B01C89EZ6K/

All Romance Ebooks: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-mendingtherift-1989406-145.html
 
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Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Chris T. Kat, author of Mending the Rift.

Hi Chris, thank you for agreeing to this interview. 

Talk to us about your characters in this book. What makes them unique? 
Luca is a breeder, which already makes him unique in my opinion. He’s a lovely young man who doesn’t want to bow to his government’s rules. He wants to lead his own life, and that includes marrying the man he loves.
Marcus is Luca’s bodyguard, but he’s also Luca’s lover. Marcus is loyal and protective, and he’d do pretty much everything for Luca. Who doesn’t like someone like that?
Then there are Nicholas and Gregory, Luca’s parents. They’re only side characters, but I loved writing them. Nicholas is a breeder as well, highly intelligent and a brat par excellence. He drives everyone up the wall, but Gregory is still completely smitten with him.
 
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in getting your book from start to publish?
Mending the Rift is my 20th published book, so there wasn’t anything surprising there. What I did like about the process was to receive the cover art early, and that I could pick one out from among various suggestions.
 
Have you ever gone to a convention? If so, how was it? If not, do you think it’s something you’d like to do in the future? 
No, I haven’t ever gone to a convention. At least not for one that’s writing related. If you’d asked me this question a couple of years ago, I’d have answered that I’d really like to visit a convention like GRL, or something like that, in the future. But… times have changed and my interest in these things have changed, so… no, I don’t want to go to a convention in the future.

Would you like to be a full-time writer?

 Again, if you’d asked me this question a few years ago, my answer would have been: maybe. The thought had its perks then. But now? No, I really don’t want to be a full-time writer. While I enjoy getting lost in my own head and stories, there’s more to the world than sitting in front of a computer screen.
 
Design the ultimate pizza. 
The ultimate pizza? Hmm, it would need a crunchy crust, lots of cheese and maybe some shrimps and spinach.

Meet the author:

Chris T. Kat lives in the middle of Europe, where she shares a house with her husband of many years and their two children. She stumbled upon the M/M genre by luck and was swiftly drawn into it. She divides her time between work, her family—which includes chasing after escaping horses and lugging around huge instruments such as a harp—and writing. She enjoys a variety of genres, such as mystery/suspense, paranormal, and romance. If there's any spare time, she happily reads for hours, listens to audiobooks or does cross stitch.  

Where to find the author:

Twitter: http://twitter.com/christi_kat

GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/ChrisTKat

Blog: http://christikat.blogspot.com

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Chris-T.-Kat/e/B008FQQH2Q

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5767496.Chris_T_Kat

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Cover Artist: AngstyG

Tour Dates & Stops:

14-Mar The Novel Approach, Alpha Book Club, Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words, Book Lovers 4Ever, Elisa - My Reviews and Ramblings, Caraway Carter, Gay Media Reviews

15-Mar Nephy Hart, Joyfully Jay, Carly’s Book Reviews, Wicked Faerie's Tales and Reviews, A.M. Leibowitz

16-Mar Love Bytes, TTC Books and More, Havan Fellows, Jessie G. Books, Unquietly Me, MM Good Book Reviews

17-Mar Prism Book Alliance, The Blogger Girls, V's Reads, Divine Magazine

18-Mar Molly Lolly, KathyMac Reviews, Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents, Man2ManTastic, My Fiction Nook, 3 Chicks After Dark, Bayou Book Junkie, Hearts on Fire, Inked Rainbow Reads      

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Trusting Cade by Luna David - 5 Star Review

3/12/2016

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Series: Custos Securities #1
Kindle Edition, 440 pages
Published February 13th 2016
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At 38, Zavier “Cade” McCade has it all: a military career he can be proud of, a successful business, and a close knit group of family and friends. A former Army Special Forces Captain, Cade leaves the military to create Custos Securities, a burgeoning protection agency that provides unparalleled security for both civilians and corporations across the U.S. 

After a string of disastrous relationships—and a narrow escape from an abusive partner—Braden Cross is finally putting his past to rest. Combining both his passion for baking and his knack for business, Braden owns the Sugar n’ Spice Café with his best friend who concocts exotic coffees and teas that pair perfectly with his decadent confections. 

When a stalker sets his sights on Braden, the young pastry chef’s world is turned upside down. More frightened than he cares to admit, and not knowing where to turn, Braden is relieved when Cade steps in to offer his protection. Caught up in a maelstrom of threats, break-ins, and vandalism, the two draw closer together. Braden eventually realizes that he can trust Cade with his life, but he finds himself wondering… can he trust him with his heart? 

Author’s Note: For those of you that prefer warnings (trigger or otherwise) for your books, please use the “Look Inside” feature to find the warnings within the first few pages. For those of you that hate warnings--don't “Look Inside” . . . Happy reading! ​
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This is the first book by this author, and I have to say I honestly look forward to reading more of her books.  This book was brilliant and I actually got annoyed that I had to stop reading to sleep (yeah I know, what is sleep when you have a good read ! ).

We meet Cade, who is ex-forces that has started a security business with his best friend Cooper, called Custos Securities.  All their employees are ex-services and they provide top grade service.

Then we meet Braden, who is the business partner of Coopers sister Maya, who between them run a coffee shop (Maya makes the coffee and is seen by the customers, but Braden prefers to make the cakes and treats and stay behind the scenes).

Braden has a stalker, which he has kept secret from everyone, until Maya makes a discovery of the letters the stalker has sent.  As she makes the discovery, Cade and Cooper are visiting Maya, and decide to do a little investigating themselves to see if they can track down the stalker.

The regimented life that Braden lives (due in the most part to being an insulin dependant diabetic), starts to unravel slightly, and Cade finds himself strangely drawn to Braden, but he is not sure what it is about Braden that does this! 

Cade and Braden grow closer, and I loved how they were getting to know each other, and Cade taking an interest in what Braden does to keep in control of his diabetes...... that is until Braden makes a very bad decision indeed..... and one that has Cade, Cooper and his team frantically trying to locate him.

I should also say here that there is not a HEA in this book, you have to wait for the second book in the series to find out what happens to them all. 
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Luna David is a wife, a mother of twins, and now, an author. When she's not begging her little ones to stop--throwing things, hitting each other, pulling the cat's tail, having meltdowns, screaming, eating stuff off the floor, yelling at each other, playing with their food, running into the street, and destroying the house--you'll most likely find her writing. 

She loves anything book, coffee or dark chocolate related and can't think of a better way to pass the time than to combine all three. She can't remember a time when she wasn't addicted to reading or creating her own stories, if only in her head. It wasn't until recently that she began to believe she could actually put those stories to paper. 

She is blessed enough to have wonderfully supportive family and friends and she counts herself lucky every day that she gets to not only be a stay at home mom to her kids, but to also pursue her dream of becoming a published author.
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https://www.facebook.com/luna.david.169

https://twitter.com/AuthorLunaDavid

http://www.lunadavid.com/
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Book Blast!!!  Spanked In The Woodshed by Brina Brady (Bend Over Series) - Excerpt and Giveaway!!

3/11/2016

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Spanked in the Woodshed E-Book Cover

Author Name: Brina Brady

Book Name: Spanked in the Woodshed

Series: Bend Over

Book: Three

Series should be read in order – this is the final book of the series

Release Date: March 11, 2016

Blurb:

Young Shane gets himself in trouble again with his Dom. Afraid of Julien thinking he is insane when he believes someone is following him at the university, he makes matters worse for himself. He wants to please him, make him happy, and be the best sub for Julien. His Dom gives him everything he needs. He helps him learn to deal with his problems the right way and not with drugs. He pays for his college and lets him work at one of his clubs to be independent and earn some of his own money. Something or someone always seems to get in the way of their progress. This time besides the lies and rule breaking, it's a couple of different people trying to ruin their relationship. Julien tries to be patient with Shane. He loves him and wants to be the safe place Shane can always come home to, but misunderstandings, lies, and shortcomings threaten this couple the one thing they need more than anything else, each other. This story is steamy hot, but it isn’t just a story of BDSM. It is a story of love with a super HEA to end the series.

Pages or Words: 70,000 words

Categories: BDSM, Contemporary, Erotica, Fiction, Gay Fiction, M/M Romance

Excerpt:

When Shane O’Rourke’s cell phone buzzed on the end table, he straightened up against the headboard in bed to read the message. There was no question as to who was messaging him at noon. Sure enough, Julien’s leather-clad picture wallpapered his screen. Shane’s stomach constricted and his clammy hands trembled. He inhaled a deep breath to center himself. Fuck no. Julien had told him that they couldn’t meet for lunch because of some business meeting with his partner, Adam. Shane didn’t have a clue what prompted him to check up on him. Shane hadn’t attended school the entire week. He didn’t mention it to Julien, because he was supposed to attend all of his classes according to their agreement for tuition. Julien: “Where are you?” Shane: “UCLA.” Julien: “Did you take a bus?” Shane: “My motorcycle.” Why would he ask me if I took a bus? He knows I ride my bike. It doesn’t make any sense. Three minutes later the bedroom door busted open. Julien stood in the doorway, arms folded and glared at him. Shane knew that particular look, and it never meant anything good on the horizon. He shouldn’t have lied to Julien. He always found out, one way or another. When would he learn from his past mistakes? His father had been right; he was nothing but a liar going straight to hell.

Buy the book:

US Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BOEWBB6

UK Amazon: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B01BOEWBB6?*Version*=1&*entries*=0

DE Amazon: http://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B01BOEWBB6?*Version*=1&*entries*=0

FR Amazon: http://www.amazon.fr/gp/product/B01BOEWBB6?*Version*=1&*entries*=0

CA Amazon: http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01BOEWBB6?*Version*=1&*entries*=0

AU Amazon: http://www.amazon.com.au/gp/product/B01BOEWBB6?*Version*=1&*entries*=0

Meet the author:

I am from Huntington Beach, Ca. I taught various subjects at a Continuation High School in Los Angeles, California for 27 years. I obtained a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in history, Secondary Social Science Credential and a Master’s Degree in Secondary Reading and Secondary Education from California State University, Long Beach. I also enrolled in some creative writing classes at UCLA.

Where to find the author:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brina.brady.3 Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Brina-Brady/442994469202599 Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrinaBrady Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/brinabrady/ Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/PrincessBrina My Blog http://brinabrady.wordpress.com Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29078515-spanked-in-the-woodshed

Publisher: Brina Brady

Cover Artist: Kellie Dennis - Book Cover by Design

Tour Dates & Stops:

Parker Williams, Divine Magazine, The Hat Party, Bayou Book Junkie, Wicked Faerie's Tales and Reviews, Alpha Book Club, The Dark Arts, Mikky's World of Books, The Jena Wade, Inked Rainbow Reads, Unquietly Me, Happily Ever Chapter, MM Good Book Reviews, Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words, Jessie G. Books, Elisa - My Reviews and Ramblings, MM Book Escape, Full Moon Dreaming, V's Reads, Man2ManTastic, Up All Night, Read All Day, Rainbow Gold Reviews, Charley Descoteaux, Multitasking Mommas, Caraway Carter, Iyana Jenna, Outrageous Heroes, Bonkers About Books, The Fuzzy, Fluffy World of Chris T. Kat, Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents, Three Books Over The Rainbow, Gay Media Reviews, Kirsty Loves Books

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Trainwreck by Michelle Michael Rakes - Blog Tour with Excerpt, Giveaway and Author Interview!!

3/9/2016

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Author Name: Michele Micheal Rakes

Book Name: Trainwreck

Series: Trainwreck

Book: One

Release Date: January 25, 2016

Blurb:

Detective Sergeant Vincent Sweetwater hates dead bodies. That’s why he’s an undercover narc and not a homicide dick. So why is he standing on a sandy beach in California staring at a lifeless body—oh yeah, the suicide attempt. Lieutenant Hanson is making a statement. Something about life worth living. Shows what he knows. As Vince examines the tortured body, he feels an empathy and déjà vu for the victim, her wounds are similar to scars he has only a vague memory receiving. An intense desire to find her killer fills his queasy belly as a dark game of cat and mouse begins. The young woman’s death forces Vince back into a secret life dominated by sex, perversion, and sadomasochism. Estranged from his wife he still loves and longing for the man who possessed him once, Vince buries his torment deep inside meaningless sex. *Warning: This book contains adult content and situations. NOT FOR THE SQUEAMISH. Pages or Words: 374 pages Categories: BDSM, Bisexual, Crime Fiction, Erotica, Fiction, Gay Fiction, M/M Romance, Ménage/Poly, Romance, Thriller

Excerpt:

Vince grabbed the remote and clicked on the news. He paid little attention as he rubbed his aching hip. When Lola Romero began her news report he glanced up to see an official photo of himself in uniform. “Jesus, talk about an old fucking picture.” Despite being only twenty-three in the photo, he hadn't appeared young and fresh faced. His eyes had held a kind of darkness even then, and his best efforts were unable to hide the pain. “An L.A.P.D. Information officer confirmed the return to duty of Detective Vincent Sweetwater just one week after a horrifying display of violence toward a man who was reportedly beating his five-year-old son in the parking lot of a Home Depot in Inglewood. Detective Sweetwater was nearly killed last year in a motorcycle accident on the Pacific Coast Highway and is still under scrutiny following alleged misconduct while under deep cover with the narcotics division.” “Bite me, Lola.” Vince shut off the TV, flopping back on the bed, staring into the darkness. “Fuck my life. It was more than a year ago. Bitch.” I hate people.  

Buy the book:

http://amzn.to/1Phfps1

Meet the author:

Michele Micheal Rakes lives in a small town in the shadow of a big mountain and works as a surgical technologist assisting in the removal of tonsils and testicles. Three grown children, a one year old granddaughter named Thrasher, two psychotic Egyptian Mau’s, a husband with hair down to his knees, an Amazon for a wife, two Harley’s, and a ferret named Teeny Tiny Ferret Feet (husband insists her name Little Feet, we all know he’s wrong) life is gets pretty wild. Note: Wife recently passed away from cancer and this book is dedicated in loving memory of Mary Louise Castleman. Love you babe!

Where to find the author:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/michelerakes1 Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/michelemichealrakes Twitter: @MicheleRakes Blog: www.michelerakes.wordpress.com Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28644673-trainwreck

Publisher: Michele Micheal Rakes Cover Artist: Drai Bearwomyn Cover Photography by Dan Skinner Editing: Tina Adamski

Tour Dates & Stops:

17-Feb Book Lovers 4Ever, Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words 24-Feb Love Bytes, Mikky's World of Books 2-Mar Full Moon Dreaming, Man2ManTastic, Bonkers About Books, Bayou Book Junkie 9-Mar BFD Book Blog, Velvet Panic, My Fiction Nook, Gay Media Reviews, The Novel Approach 16-Mar Happily Ever Chapter, Hearts on Fire 23-Mar Two Chicks Obsessed With Books and Eye Candy, Three Books Over The Rainbow 30-Mar Wicked Faerie's Tales and Reviews, KathyMac Reviews 6-Apr Havan Fellows, Jessie G. Books 13-Apr Cathy Brockman Romances, Inked Rainbow Reads 20-Apr Divine Magazine, Prism Book Alliance 27-Apr Molly Lolly 4-May Dawn’s Reading Nook 11-May Alpha Book Club 18-May MM Good Book Reviews 25-May Louise Lyons 1-Jun Elisa - My Reviews and Ramblings      

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Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Michele Micheal “Mikey” Rakes, author of Trainwreck the series.
 
Hi Mikey, thank you for agreeing to this interview. 
  
How do you develop your plots and characters?
Usually a scenario comes to me and I think about the type of person I’d like to see handling the situation. Sometimes, like with Fourth and Long, it comes from my love of football. Most of my stories are very heavy on the characterization elements. I love to build a complex character.
 
Who doesn’t love a good hero? Tell us about your protagonist. Was there a real life inspiration behind them?
Vince is a trainwreck. He’s basically a good guy who just can’t buy a break or get anything right. Vince wants to be one of those guys people can count on, but he’s been through a rough childhood and doesn’t trust easily. Even the people he loves, he keeps at a distance, because deep down he’s afraid they’ll find out he’s a masochist. He’s afraid his wife will think he’s a sexual deviant and the man he’s in love with doesn’t want him anymore (really he does, but there is a lot of miscommunication). All three characters: Vince, Mica (his wife), and Greg are grieving, which makes it difficult for any of them to see what the other is going through. On top of everything, Vince has to find who is killing young women, because it’s his job and he feels like he knows the killer.
 
What real-life inspirations do you use when world building?
I like to set my stories in places I’ve been or that I would like to go to, but for the most part, I take from my own experiences. Some folks have difficulty believing some of the far out scenarios in my books, but those are the ones that are true. I think it’s funny, really, just like my mother. When I’d tell her the truth, I couldn’t keep a straight face and she’d think I was lying. When I was lying, she’d think I was telling the truth. Story of my life. When it comes to the BDSM club that Vince and Greg frequent, it’s actually a friend’s home and it’s the play I’d like to be. I’ve modeled it on how I would have my own place and not on any real club. Back in the day, people would gather privately in a group members home and that’s how I modeled ‘the club’.
 
Did you learn anything from this book and what was it?
There is a lot of loss for these characters and they survived. I’ve learned to survive. My wife passed away last October. I’m still trying to figure things out. My husband and I miss her deeply. Sometimes I still think, “Oh, we need to hop on the Harley’s and go to this place.” Then I remember, we’re alone, and it will just be the two of us. Learning to survive not getting to hear a loved one’s voice ever again, except in your head.
 
It’s your last meal on earth. What do you choose?
The last meal I had with Mary was ham, cheddar-bacon scalloped potatoes, and corn. She loved it. That’s what I want, because I’ll remember having made her happy with it.

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Dirty Martini 2 - The Screwdriver by G.R. George/Renee George - Book Blast with Excerpt and Giveaway !!

3/7/2016

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Author Name: G.R. George/Renee George Book Name: Dirty Martini 2: The Screwdriver Series: The Other Team Book: Eight This book should be read after Dirty Martini, but it is suggested that the series be read in order as character recur throughout. Release Date: March 7, 2016

Blurb:

Marty Lincoln and Chris Lawson are only happy when they’re in each other’s arms. Unfortunately, their relationship remains long-distance as Marty completes his final months in the Army. Chris has a new and challenging job that keeps him busy, but he yearns every day for Marty. Marty suffers from PTSD and needs Chris as his anchor. Time apart feeds the doubts each man harbors as they deal with their tragic pasts and try to hold on to the love blooming between them. Will fear make them give up before they even get started? Or will love find a way? Pages or Words: 76 pages, 19,000 words Categories: Contemporary, Gay Fiction, M/M Romance, Romance

Excerpt:

Mid-August… Marty pulled up into the parking lot of Chris’s apartment complex in his mid-sized rental car. The evening heat and humidity clung to his skin. He and Chris had talked at least three times a week since that first phone call a month earlier, but he’d really wanted to see the man again. They’d decided to meet up on Chris’s first weekend off since becoming day manager at the bar. Marty had the jitters. What if they didn’t have the same chemistry? The same spark? All their intimacies since June had been via phone. Chris had suggested video chat, but Marty had been too much of a chicken. Living in the military made a man paranoid about privacy. He pulled his tee shirt at the collar to let in some air, mustering his courage. The heat exacerbated the oily scent of the recently tarred parking lot. He smiled, remembering the choice words Chris had about the tar sticking to his tires. The outside steps leading to the second floor were concrete. Marty gripped the metal railing. His leg ached as he walked the flight to apartment 3B. He bit his upper lip, running his fingers through his hair, as he stood at the door. His stomach ached with a misery born of anticipation and fear. His impulse was to bang down the door, but instead, he simply knocked. Twice. The door opened. Chris smiled. “You made it.” Chris wore a kiwi-green tee shirt that brightened the green in his hazel eyes and a pair of low-slung jeans that hugged his narrow hips. His chestnut hair was neatly combed, and his narrow, angular face was clean shaven. “You look nice,” Marty said. Chris stepped back inside his apartment. “Come in. You’ve had a long trip. The bathroom is the door across the way.” There were two doors off the living room. Chris pointed the nearest one. “If you need to use it.” “I’m fine,” Marty said. The living room and kitchen were combined in the small apartment. Chris had a blue couch, a coffee table, a recliner, and a small flat screen on a stand across the room from the couch in the living room. The kitchen had a three-by-three wooden table, four chairs, a fridge, dishwasher, sink, stove, and limited counter and cabinet space. The place wouldn’t win any decorating awards, but it was clean. “Do you want to sit down?” Chris asked. “Sure.” Marty felt let down by Chris’s mild reaction. He wasn’t sure what he’d expected, but this congenial greeting hadn’t been it. “It’s good to see you.” “You too,” Chris said. “Can I get you a drink? Beer? Wine?” “Sure. I’ll take whatever beer you have.” He watched Chris open the fridge and heard the telltale clinking of bottles. Chris brought two beers into the living room. The bottles hissed as he popped the tops with an opener. He sat on the couch next to Marty. “Here you go.” The cold bottle sweated against his hot, clammy hands. He swigged the beer, glad to have a reason not to talk for a moment. They’d talked so much on the phone over the past month that he’d assumed they’d never run out of things to say. “So,” Chris said. “Long drive, huh?” Wow, this conversation really was going nowhere. “Is everything okay?” “Yeah,” Chris said. “Yes, of course. Why? Is everything okay with you?” “Sure.” Marty scratched at the small hole near the knee of his jeans. “Good.” Why was this so goddamn hard? He turned to Chris and waited for Chris to meet his gaze. They both laughed nervously. “Maybe you should kiss me,” Marty said.

Buy the book:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CC2JSCE Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01CC2JSCE Amazon CA: http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01CC2JSCE

Meet the author:

G.R. George is the pen name for USA Today Bestselling author Renee George's GLBT urban fantasy, paranormal romance, erotic romance, contemporary romance, and romantic comedy books that highlight varying themes including ménage, gay and bisexual relationships. A published author since 2005, she has written and published over 30 books in the past decade. Accolades include: EcataRomance Award for Best Paranormal Erotic Romance and Best Gay Erotic Romance and a Literary Nymph Blush Award for Best Paranormal Romance.

Where to find the author:

Newsletter: https://app.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/t1r6v0 Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/theotherteamclub/ Twitter: @reneegeorge2008 Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/reneegeorge12/ Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/Renee_George Publisher: Book Boutique Cover Artist: Renee George

Tour Dates & Stops:

Parker Williams, Divine Magazine, BFD Book Blog, Gay Media Reviews, Happily Ever Chapter, Inked Rainbow Reads, Bayou Book Junkie, For the Love of Bookends, Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words, The Hat Party, A.M. Leibowitz, MM Good Book Reviews, Wicked Faerie's Tales and Reviews, Full Moon Dreaming, V's Reads, Alpha Book Club, Open Skye Book Reviews, Attention Is Arbitrary, Up All Night, Read All Day, The Jena Wade, Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents, Charley Descoteaux, Mikky's World of Books, Outrageous Heroes, Cheekypee Reads and Reviews      

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Omega Moon by T.C. Orton - 4.5 Star Review

3/5/2016

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Name: Omega Moon 
Author: T.C. Orton 
Length: 182 page (Novella) 
Genre(s): Paranormal/Romance/Murder-Mystery ​

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Omega Moon is dark, gritty and a fresh take on the "shifter" genre. The story focuses on Alec, an 18-year-old college student and newly turned werewolf. Alec is trying to understand his abilities when Professor Damien Lock comes along to shake him to his core, providing him with knowledge on packs, Alphas, Betas and Omegas. 

As if his life wasn’t crazy enough, Alec also struggles to keep his friendship with his best-friend Brodie who is the heir to a multimillion dollar company and lives in a giant mansion filled with pretentious art and maids. Alec also meets Connor, another werewolf who acts as his guide to all-things-furry. 

With everything going on around him, Alec is truly put to the test when there’s a murder on campus and he can’t remember where he’d been the night before. Was it him? Is he capable of such things once he’s turned? 

Join him on a journey of romance, the paranormal and a murder-mystery with plenty of twists. 
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We were approached by a new author and asked to review their book - and all I can say is WOW!

This book had me enthralled, and just when you think you have everything clear in your mind.... Wham something else happens that you just didn't see coming. I actually read this book in a day as I didn't want to put down, but had to know why things were happening, and by whom.

We meet Alec, who is a werewolf, and more importantly an omega, but he never realised what he was.... until the night of a full moon. When he wakes the following morning, it is to learn that a young girl has been murdered and Alec is convinced he killed her. He doesn't know what to do and has nobody that he can speak to. He just decides to carry on with his classes as though nothing had happened.
His friend Brodie then seems to be around Alec more, and Alec is unsure about Brodie and why he is around all the time since the killings happened. I think he really doesn't know who to trust, but he doesn't feel at ease enough with Brodie to confide in him, I think he is frightened of losing his friend.

Now enter Damien, his professor at college, and Alex is strangely drawn to him. What Alec doesn't realise is that Damien is also a werewolf but more importantly he is an alpha. When things escalate around Alec, it is Damien who comforts him, and then takes things further by kissing him. He then asks Alec to trust him and takes him to the pack he is Alpha, and shows him that there are others just like him. This is where Alec meets Conner, who is also an omega, a pregnant omega!

​Damien then goes on to explain to Alec that he is an alpha and that Alec is not only an omega but also his soulmate. Alec senses he is an alpha, and due to the sweet smell around Damien he believes him when he says he is his soulmate, and the two begin a relationship.
Strange things then start happening to Alec, and for some reason he is sure that it is Brodie doing all these things to him.... but he couldn't be more wrong. There is a secret or two that Brodie has, and it is not until the pieces all start coming together that you find out his secrets - and I am not saying any more as this is a main part of the book.
This is not a book full of sex scenes, but it didn't need this, but you instead have a great story which is full of twists and turns, and I would recommend it highly. I was certainly not expecting things to happen how they did, and to me this is a sign of a good book, as I had no idea of the way things would turn out.
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Book Blast : Marking Kane by A.C. Katt, Excerpt and Giveaway

3/4/2016

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MarkingKane_WD (1) Author Name: A.C. Katt Book Name: Marking Kane Series: Werewolves of Manhattan Book: Four Series is best read in order – His Omega, Remy’s Painter, Scarred Mate, Marking Kane Release Date: March 4, 2016

Blurb:

Gabriel Martin has hope. Three of the Alphas on the council have found mates in the past year and a half. Returning to New York from Atlanta, he comes across a human who has been raped in an alleyway. The human is his mate, Kane Brady. Kane has been teaching at the local high school and refuses to rubber stamp the education of their star basketball players—almost paying the price with his life. He’s unusual as he’s a Human Omega but he can’t be intimate with Gabriel because of his horrific experience. It’s up to the Alphas and their Mates to help Kane recover and accept all that it is to be with Gabriel. Pages or Words: 51,655 Categories: M/M Romance, Paranormal, Shifters (Wolf)

Excerpt:

First Week in December Friday The faculty room at New York City’s McClellan High School reeked of industrial strength cleaner, sweat socks, and chalk. The walls were made of dirty beige concrete blocks and the linoleum was beginning to crack. Today it was empty save for Coach Tom Hughes and Kane Brady, the junior year English teacher, who were involved in a heated exchange. “Neither Johnny Sanders nor Deon Jackson did the work. They didn’t turn in one homework assignment all semester, they refused to take all of their tests and didn’t even bother to do their term papers. I have to fail them.” “Do you realize that Johnny is the power forward and Deon is the point guard for McClellan High School’s basketball team? This year’s team has a shot at the state championship.” “Tom, they’re not here to learn to play basketball, they can do that on the street or at the Y. They’re here for an education and they won’t get one if we continue to pass students along without them doing the work required to get a passing grade.” “Are you telling me physical education isn’t important?” Coach loomed over Kane, who was only five-foot-six. “Physical Education is as important as English is to their development. If they failed to show up for your class, sat on the sidelines for every exercise and disrupted the class on a regular basis what would you do? I know you’ve failed students.” Kane’s eyes blazed. “I didn’t fail our two, star basketball players,” the Coach huffed. “Talk to them about what happened. I didn’t want to be unreasonable so when I realized they were on the team and failing my class, I told the boys in November what they had to do to pass. I also told their parents. They didn’t do it. They didn’t turn in one missed homework assignment or the term paper I assigned in September.” “They don’t have time for all that shit, they have to practice. The other teachers go along. This is your first year here. You fail Deon and Johnny and you’re out on your ear.” Coach drank the sludge they called coffee and stared at Kane pointedly. “And I’m out on my ear if these kids don’t pass the standardized tests at the end of the school year.” “There are ways of getting around that.” Coach Hughes was trying to physically intimidate him, and Kane wasn’t buying it. “So which do you suggest, do I sacrifice their education so they graduate without being able to read passed a sixth-grade level? Or do you suggest I fail them and give them the incentive to pass next semester so they can play ball?” “These boys can get scholarships for college if they play,” the coach said belligerently. “And if they don’t do the work here, their professors will fail them because they can’t keep up and they won’t be able to play or pay for the education they were promised.” Kane was practically begging the coach to put the kids and their futures first. “They have difficult lives at home.” The coach got sanctimonious. “No, they don’t. They have both of their parents and both sets of parents work. Deon’s father is a policeman and Johnny’s mother is a nurse. I’ve spoken to them and they agree with my decision. Their boys have gotten out of hand. They are aware that their sons have not done any school work for the past two years, with the school turning a blind eye. As I said, I have their full support. The parents would rather have their sons educated than have them only know how to play basketball.” “They don’t have the mental capacity to do the work.” “I’d like to see you tell that to their parents. If they were incapable of doing the assignments, I’d suggest putting them in a remedial class, but they can do the work, they just refuse to do it.” Kane glared at the coach. “One way or another, you’ll pay for this. Those kids were my ticket to coaching college ball and I’m not going to lose out because of you”,” Tom shouted. Kane shrunk back. The coach was six foot six and about two-hundred fifty pounds to his one-forty soaking wet. “Get them another student to tutor them. If they catch up, I’ll change their grade,” Kane offered. “Fuck you, Brady. Either you pass both Deon and Johnny, or you’ll pay the consequences. This is what happens when you let fags teach school.” “I could have you fired for that remark.” The coach pushed him up against a wall, shook him and said, “Buddy, you’re not going to be around long enough to complain.” He let Kane go and Kane slipped to the floor. Tom Hughes tore out of the faculty room and down the corridor. Kane had stood his ground but was shaking in his boots. He wished he had someone to talk to about this, but this was his first year teaching and since he came in August from Indiana, he hadn’t had time to make friends. The coach had been at the school for five years. What is my word worth against his? *** The coach approached Johnny and Deon in the locker room. “He won’t budge. If you get your papers in, he’ll pass you, if you don’t you fail. You should have made a token effort.” “Why should we have to be in class with a fag? Why would I want to do work for a fag? He needs schooling of a different kind. By the time Deon and I are through with him, there’ll be a new teacher in English three who gets how to play the game.” Johnny’s smile boded no good for Kane Brady. “Yeah, let’s see how much he really likes to take it up the ass.” Deon poked his friend in the ribs. “We’ll make it a team effort.” Deon laughed out loud. “Yeah sort of like a class project,” Johnny smirked. “I didn’t hear you say that. Remember, if you get caught, it will go worse for you than if you fail,” Coach told them. “You’re courting jail time and then no college or pro team will have you.” “You’re just as guilty as we are for encouraging us not to participate in that fag’s class and you’ve threatened other teachers before this.” Deon spat. “This one is the first one to face you down. The fag has balls, who knew?” “If he fails us, you don’t get to coach college ball. If we get caught, you don’t get to coach college ball. It would be in your interest to let us know where he lives so we can take care of business, and to provide us with an alibi if we need one.” Johnny stood waiting for the requested information. “He sometimes stays late to review papers and make up his lesson plans. You can follow him home. If you get caught, you’re on your own.” “No, we’re not. You’re right there with us. We told you what we’re going to do, if you don’t report us, you’re as guilty as we are. But, we all know you won’t make any waves because you want that college coaching position.” “All right, go, do your worst. If you get caught, I know nothing.” “Right…” said Deon as he elbowed Johnny in the ribs and smirked. *** Kane hadn’t realized it was after nine. He was grading papers. It was easier to do that at school. Here he could spread out unlike in his efficiency apartment. However, his apartment was only two blocks from work on the edge of New York’s trendy SOHO and convenient to shopping. It also had huge windows which let in more light than the usual city apartment. His was a neighborhood in flux. He lived in an old tenement and there was a pricey new high-rise down the block at Ten Sullivan. It was the tallest building in SOHO. Kane sighed, gathered up his papers, put them in his satchel and closed up his classroom. “Good night, Ernie,” he called to the janitor as he left the building. “Good night Mr. Brady. You be careful. There’s a lot of snow and ice outside and they’re predicting another storm. Schools will probably be closed tomorrow. “I’ll be careful. Thanks.” *** Kane shivered in the cold. The walk home seemed more difficult tonight, feet dragging through the snow piles with the wind gusts almost picking him up off the ground. He kept on looking over his shoulder. Kane was sure someone was following him. Every time he glanced backward he saw shadows in doorways. He looked around again and watched five boys in ski masks come out of an alley. They were walking quickly toward him, with seeming purpose. As they got closer, he realized that they were following him. He began to walk faster. They also picked up speed. Kane started to run.

Buy the book:

http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowAuthorBooks.php?list=_ABKLIST106&author=A.C.!Katt

Meet the author:

AC Katt was born in New York City’s Greenwich Village. She remembers sitting at the fountain in Washington Square Park listening to folk music while they passed the hat. At nine, her parents dragged her to New Jersey where she grew up, married and raised four children and became a voracious reader of romantic fiction. At one time she owned over two thousand novels, until she and her husband took themselves and the cat to New Mexico for their health and its great beauty. Now, most of AC’s books are electronic (although she still keeps six bookcases of hardcovers), so she never has to give away another book. AC is a late bloomer, however, she claims to have found her niche writing LGBT romance. She hangs out at ACKatt.com and ackattsjournal.com; where she keeps her blog. To get snippets of new releases and Works in Progress subscribe to AC Katt’s Kattery by sending an e-mail to mlhansel@gmail.com.

Where to find the author:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AC-Katt-62628106022/?fref=ts

Twitter: @ackatt

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ackatt/

Website: www.ackatt.com

Blog: www.ackattsjournal.com

Goodreads Link:

Publisher: MLR Press

Cover Artist: Lex Valentine

Tour Dates & Stops: March 4, 2016

Parker Williams, Open Skye Book Reviews, Divine Magazine, The Hat Party, Bayou Book Junkie, Full Moon Dreaming, Alpha Book Club, A.M. Leibowitz, Multitasking Mommas, Outrageous Heroes, Decadent Delights, Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words, Velvet Panic, Happily Ever Chapter, BFD Book Blog, The Jena Wade, Wicked Faerie's Tales and Reviews, Unquietly Me, Molly LollyElisa - My Reviews and Ramblings, My Fiction Nook, MM Good Book Reviews, Bonkers About Books, Mikky's World of Books, Inked Rainbow Reads,

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2 Comments

Where He Ends And I Begin Audio Book & Something In The Way He Needs Audio Book by Cardeno C - 5 Star Reviews

3/3/2016

0 Comments

 
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  • Release Date:05/01/2016
  • Publisher: The Romance Authors, LLC
  • Written by: Cardeno C.
  • Narrated by: Alexander Collins
  • Length: 7 hrs and 55 mins 
  • Series: Home, Book 3
  • Unabridged Audiobook

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Aggressive, physical, and brave, Jake Owens is a small town football hero turned big city cop who passes his time with meaningless encounters believing he can't have who he really wants: Nate Richardson, his best friend since before forever. Thoughtful, quiet, and kind, Nate is a brilliant doctor who has always known who he is and has never been able to shake his crush on loyal, courageous, straight Jake.
After a passionate night together, Nate realizes Jake isn't as straight as he assumed, but he worries that what they shared was a fluke, a result of too much closeness for too long. For Jake, the question isn't how they ended up in bed together because he has always known that Nate holds his heart; it's how he'll convince Nate that he wants and needs to stay there.
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I love this story - this is one that is best friends to lovers.  Nate and Jake have been best friends since they were born, and have grown really close.  What you learn as you listen is that Jake has been in love with Nate forever, but doesn't know how to tell him.  

Jake doesn't realise that Nate actually loves him too, but incorrectly assumes that Jake is straight, going by all the girls he has dated and bedded.  boyfriends – except the one he really wants….. Jake.

The two spend a night together, but Nate is not sure what Jake actually feels, and has himself convinced that it was all just a fluke, and that Jake doesn’t actually want him for a partner.  However, Nate could not be more wrong, and Jake longs to spend all day every day with Nate, in and out of bed.

The two grow closer, but a comment by Nates friends almost causes them to part, until they talk and are totally honest with each other.  Jakes job also causes some issues, especially when he was working undercover, but they manage to work their way through this too.

​I have listened to this audio more than once, and never grow tired of listening to it.  The way the story was written, you listen as Jake and Nate grow and mature into the men they are, and are willing them to actually become a couple.  The narrators voice drew me straight in, and he has a voice that is ideal for audio books.  He kept the voices for each character the same throughout the whole book, and this just made it so enjoyable.
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Audible
Audible UK
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  • Release Date:14/01/2016
  • Publisher: The Romance Authors, LLC
  • Written by: Cardeno C.
  • Narrated by: Ezekiel Robison
  • Length: 7 hrs and 6 mins ​
  • Series: Family Collection, Book 1
  • Unabridged Audiobook

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Controlled Asher didn't expect to fall for free-spirited Daniel, but they'll find what they desperately need in one another.

Police captain Asher Penaz's staunch professionalism bleeds into his home life, down to his neatly pressed attire and Spartan apartment. He enjoys being in charge and in control, so his sudden and powerful attraction to the lighthearted, free-spirited Daniel Tover throws him for a loop. In his entire life, Daniel has never gotten what he needs, so he moves to the next place, the next job, the next attempt to find something worth staying for, always landing at the top of his game, but never feeling like he belongs.

The chemistry between Asher and Daniel sizzles, but with all that fire comes the risk of getting burned. As both men struggle to learn themselves while getting to know each other, the lines of desire and control blur. If Daniel and Asher can walk through the flames together, they might find what they desperately need.
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This is one Cardeno C story that I totally disliked one of the MC's, Asher came across as a totally arrogant person, especially as he was a Dom.  I hated the way he used to treat people but he does find out in the end that this is not the way to treat someone you actually care about.

Asher is so set in his ways, that he does what he wants and doesn't even consider how his actions would affect other people.  He is away for a stag party weekend with his best friend, and had endured what he called "tittie bars", not enjoying himself until he sees complete clumsy person.

Daniel was like someone he had never met before, especially the way he dresses.  Daniel seems to love wearing clothes that are too big for him, and Asher can't or won't understand why he would hide himself like that.  Daniel also seems like he is a nomad, so Asher invites him to go home with him - which is totally unlike Asher, I don't think he has ever invited anyone to his home.

Daniel and Asher are complete opposites, but for some reason seem to gel together really well, but I don't think Asher has really ever had a relationship with someone he cares for, and he makes some very silly mistakes while with Daniel.

When Daniels biggest secret is revealed, (which he had been trying to tell Asher about), everything goes wrong and Asher shows a side of himself, which he later seems so ashamed of. He tries to apologise to Daniel but finds he has disappeared and he cannot find him. Is this the end of their relationship??

I was a little slow at realising that Cardeno C has used different narrators for her books, but I think this has worked well, as Ezekiel Robinson is so suited to this book. He also has a voice that makes sure that the emotions in the book come through loud and clear.

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Audible
Audible UK
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Cardeno C.—CC to friends—is a hopeless romantic who wants to add a lot of happiness and a few awwws into a reader’s day. Writing is a nice break from real life as a corporate type and volunteer work with gay rights organizations. Cardeno’s stories range from sweet to intense, contemporary to paranormal, long to short, but they always include strong relationships and walks into the happily-ever-after sunset.
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