Sunday, March 31, 2019

Damaged Heart by S.C. Wynne









Blurb

Cory Johnson was just twenty when he fled Bayville, following his father's suicide. Estranged from his abusive mother, he's made a new life for himself as a successful lawyer in Los Angeles.

When Cory's mother dies he grudgingly returns to his hometown to handle the estate. Rhys Tucker owns the construction company that is going to renovate Cory's childhood home. But Cory is unaware that Rhys has harbored a crush on him since they were in high school. When Cory comes home Rhys takes that opportunity to get close to Cory. Or at least try to.

Their physical chemistry is undeniable, but will Cory ever be able to have a real relationship with Rhys after being so emotionally scarred by his past? Can a heart as damaged as Cory's every really come home?


Review 
My Rating - 4 Stars!


Damaged Heart is a great story by SC Wynne. Sad from the start, I was instantly drawn into this tale.

Cory's back in town to sell his mother's house, and soon he has Rhys working on repairs for him. Little does he know that Rhys had a crush on him years ago. 

The author perfectly captures the small town feel, especially the resentment Cory has for his parents and the town. Cory's past is heart-breaking, full of abuse and pain, making him closed off and aloof.

Their relationship is extremely tough to read at times, as Rhys slowly works to chip away at Cory's cold side. Cory really fights him though, as he has no faith in love. It's sad, yet sweet in the long run. He's absolutely awful to Rhys often, but Rhys doesn't waver in his pursuit of the man. It's definitely a little odd that Rhys is willing to put up with so much, but he has faith in Cory and needs Cory to see his own worth. It's interesting to observe Cory's thoughts and feelings, as he's struggling and changing. I definitely enjoy the growth in Cory, as Rhys manages to warm his frosty heart.


Damaged Heart is an extra slow burn romance. SC Wynne has managed to create a bittersweet, heartfelt tale. 


Kyle’s Reveal (My Brother's Keeper Collection Book 1) by Royal Blue









Blurb

My Brother's Keeper Collection: Book One

Some scars are on the body, while others exist only on the heart. But together, two scarred souls can find healing, love, and family.

Professional basketball player Kyle Tyson is suffocating beneath the weight of his responsibilities and his past. Childhood abuse left its mark, as did Kyle’s guilt over his sister’s death. Now he’s trying to raise his young nephew, pursue his career, and dodge a narcissistic and manipulative ex who wants to out Kyle before he’s ready.

Schoolteacher Andy Connor found comfort in food as a boy, and he bears the marks of a botched skin-tightening surgery following the dramatic weight loss that saved his life. Still, Andy is insecure about his body and can scarcely believe someone like Kyle could be interested in him. But as they get to know each other, Andy starts to see himself through new eyes. Now if he can just help Kyle learn to love himself as much as Andy is growing to love him.


Review 
My Rating - 5 Stars!


I can't express how much I absolutely love Kyle's Reveal. A debut author, Royal Blue has impressed the hell out of me.

Kyle's a closeted professional basketball player. Suddenly in charge of raising his nephew, he has to learn to juggle his career with his new responsibilities.
And then there's Andy. Kyle and Andy are so wonderful together. Together, they're sweet and romantic, willing to do anything for each other. I enjoy the bond they have, and their level of sacrifice. 

I love Mason, both his connection with his uncle, and his way of dealing with the loss of his mom. He's such a mature little boy and I enjoyed his character. As Mason's teacher, Andy already has a great relationship with him. 

It's about the struggle to stop dwelling on one's past. At it's heart, it's a story of self-worth, both the struggle to see beyond one's past and to embrace who you are now.

The biracial aspects of the tale are well explored. I appreciate that it's not an extreme issue, but also isn't glossed over.

I'm confident in saying that this gem contains my all time favorite rimming scene. Cause damn! Just damn!

This story does a wonderful job of illustrating the pain of being closeted, as well as the pain of watching the one you love lying and living a double life. It's about the pain of not being able to claim your man. It's all developed in a fantastic manner, feeling authentic and realistic as it's written with care and a perfect pace. 

Their relationship deals with fears, doubts, and insecurities. They have to face guilt, shame, and stolen innocence. Among the many twists and turns and extreme mindgames, the author perfectly illustrates a stellar example of "...everyone has their limits."  

Kyle's Reveal's an accomplished story of scars; both physical and mental. Royal Blue expertly weaves a tale of trying to make room for what's important and finding someone with whom you can be authentic. I love this story. Every single moment. And I look forward to re-reading it soon.





One Summer by Teegan Loy







Blurb

After Kellen Reger graduates from college, his parents gift him with a summer at the lake. When he asks his best friend, Jamie McKinnon, to come with him, everything changes.
As the guys settle down for a summer of fun, a night at the local bar brings a realization that scares Kellen. He’s in love with Jamie, and how do you tell your best friend, you want more than his friendship.
Between meddling friends, nosy neighbors, and casual dating, Kellen doesn’t know how to approach Jamie. As the summer winds down, he’s running out of time. One evening, Kellen’s neighbor tells him her story of a lost love from long ago, and Kellen knows he must find a way to confess his love to Jamie or risk spending a life without him.


Review 
My Rating - 5 Stars!

Damn! I love One Summer. Teegan Loy manages to capture all the highs and lows of being in love with your best friend in this gem.

Kellen and Jamie are done with college and they'll be moving apart. But first they have this one last summer together.

Their romance is one fear of rejection and the beauty of a lifelong friendship. It's an emotional ride, full of repressed feelings, jealousy, and confusion. I was definitely mad a lot. Seriously, just confess and stop all this non-sense. But, it's a great story.

The author does an amazing job with fantastic descriptions of the area, the scenery, the neighbors, and more. And, omg, I love Mrs Jorgenson! The way they relate to her, their history with her, and her attitude are all endearing.

One Summer's a fantastic tale of risking your heart breaking now, or having it break anyway due to your fear. It's about facing your fears and taking chances. It's riveting and compelling, and an all around enjoyable read. 





Saturday, March 30, 2019

RELEASE BLITZ & REVIEW - Kiss Me, Daddy (Club 83 #1) by Quinn Ward




Buy Links: Amazon US | Amazon UK
Exclusive to Amazon and Available to Borrow with Kindle Unlimited


Length: 70,000 words approx.





Blurb


Andy's a recent college graduate with a mountain of debt and a load of regret over earning a degree he'll never use. When he takes a job at a local gay bar, he doesn't expect the first person to catch his eye to be the man he's been dreaming about since a chance encounter.

Joshua's comfortable in his life. He has an amazing son who's wise beyond his years, an ex-wife who's one of his best friends, and a great job. Now, if only those closest to him would quit hounding him to start dating again after the divorce.

Joshua finds what's been missing with the other people he's tried dating the first time Andy slips up and calls him Daddy. What starts as a slip of the tongue could lead to what both men really need and want.





Review 
My Rating - 4 Stars!

Kiss Me Daddy, the first book in Quinn Ward's Club 83 series, is a fun Daddy kink romance. As a fan of Daddy Kink, I was super excited to dive into this one.  
The Daddy kink comes on suddenly, seeming a little forced. Though, in the end Andy really needs a Daddy figure. His struggles are real, leaving him in a no-win situation. His parents are awful to him, and have no faith in him at all. He's young, lost, and unsure of what to do with his future. 

Joshua also has lot of family issues, as he's living with his ex wife and son. As a reader, it's awkward in it's uniqueness, but it's also great for the kid.  As well, his ex wife and kid are both enjoyable and good people. His son is a young genius, which I completely appreciated. Kids like him exist and it's refreshing to see them get a place in a good story.

Their relationship is a one of confusion and miscommunication. It's progression is sweet, as Andy's intrigued by the older man he keeps running into.  Of course Joshua's attracted to the needy, younger man himself, as he enjoys taking care of people.

I appreciate the relationship between Andy and Joshua, as it's absolutely unique. The author does a great job delving into the Daddy kink, which is the main draw to this story afterall.

Kiss Me, Daddy is an excellent slow-burn, May to December romance.
I would have been happy with more relationship moments, but it's still an enjoyable and kinky book. I definitely enjoyed it a lot. 






Quinn writes LGBTQ romance with a kick. Their stories center around the relationship building between the characters, but also shows how compatible they are in the bedroom (or wherever else the urge strikes).





Email Quinn at: quinn(at)quinnwardwrites(dot)com







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Family Camp (Daddy Dearest #1) by Eli Easton




Buy Links: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Universal Link - Exclusive to Amazon and Available to Borrow with Kindle Unlimited. 



Length: 219 pages



Cover Design: Reese Dante





Blurb


When Geo signs up for Family Camp, he envisions nature hikes, s’mores, and a chance to win over his recalcitrant new foster kids, Jayden and Lucy. He’s tried to become a dad for so long, and he hopes the three of them can be the family he’s always wanted. What he doesn’t anticipate is the prickly and gorgeous camp counselor who constantly comes to his rescue.

Travis spends a week every year at Camp Evermore, the camp his adoptive parents own. As a pro baseball player, his presence guarantees a full campground and excited campers. He has one rule: never, ever mess around with anyone at camp. His profession demands he stay in the closet. But one sweet and funny new dad is about to test all his resolve.

Sparks fly for Geo and Travis, and not because of the nightly campfire. Having been a foster kid himself, Travis is drawn to Geo’s sincerity and big heart and to his kids. The four of them just fit. But will this be a summer romance? Or can they find a way to be a family long after Family Camp is over?

About the Daddy Dearest series

The Daddy Dearest series will consist of stand-alone contemporary novels focusing on single gay dads who find hot romance. Expect laughs, sweet and sexy slow-burn romance, and lots of family feels!


Review 
My Rating - 5 Stars!


Family Camp is an interesting and intriguing romance by Eli Easton.

Gus brings the kids to attend a Family camp, while they are just trying to start being a family. While there, he meets Travis who works at the camp each summer. 

Can't help but to admire and like Gus. Taking in two foster kids, and wanting to adopt them is inspiring and uplifting. Meanwhile, Travis is closeted baseball player who's weighed down by the pressure of being gay in a pro sport.

Both kids are wonderfully written, true to their circumstances and ages. Lucy and her dolls just hit me in the heart. What a precious little girl. Her attachment to her dolls is heart warming while also being heart breaking. And Jaiden's developed perfectly, as a teen with abandonment issues. It's realistic and emotional. 

Travis' connection to Jaiden is wonderful. He see so much of himself in Jaiden and easily relates to the chip on the shoulder. I love this.

I find the foster care discussions to be written with knowledge, heart, and care. 
It's a story of love and trust., and it's beautiful.

Their relationship involves dealing with fears, insecurities, and secrets. It's about making connections, and finding a way to break through someone's walls. It's a tale of coming out; the fear, the complications, and the sacrifices when you stay closeted.
If you don't like kids in your romances, skip this one.

Family Camp's a story of living one's truth and finding someone who makes you want to be a better person. Eli Easton captures the power of love, both the power to give you the world versus the power to destroy you, in a marvelous manner. She does a fantastic job demonstrating how one who isn't nurtured and loved suffers many negative effects. This story is both compelling and riveting. I loved it all and am adding it to my re-read list.




Excerpt


Sixth inning. Geo was ready for the game to be over. It was fucking hot on the ball field, all open and exposed, the sun baking down. And he was also not sure how much more Travis-watching he could take—him with his silky burgundy gym shorts and a sweaty Camp Evermore green shirt stretched over those muscles. His long legs were tanned and well-defined from hours at the gym.

Those thighs could fucking crack walnuts. Dude.

Damn, but that was one fine-looking man. Geo knew he should lay off, though. Travis had made himself clear.

Only he hadn’t. At all. One minute, Travis seemed into him him. He sought out Geo’s company, like the way he kept coming by the cabin at night. And the next minute, he’d put distance between them, ignoring Geo or closing himself off behind a granite-like expression and those eye-hiding shades. And Travis had laid a clear line in the sand. Not at camp. Not gonna happen.

Yup. That was fine. Sure, Geo hadn’t been mutually attracted to a guy that hot in ages. Or ever, really. But Geo hadn’t come to camp to fool around. He had other priorities.

It did make him wonder though. Bridget had said Travis wasn’t out. A quick Google search last night had confirmed that. In fact, Geo had been shocked to discover there’d never been an out baseball player in the major leagues. Like, in the history of American baseball. Which was tragic. No wonder Travis was in the closet. It had to suck monkey balls living like that. Especially with all the women who threw themselves at him constantly. There were a dozen women on the sidelines right now that looked ready to have his babies. That had to be weird for a gay guy. Didn’t it?

Geo himself was always super uncomfortable when women came on to him. He felt compelled to blurt out “I’m gay!” in the first five minutes. It was just too weird otherwise.

Then again, Travis’s love life was none of Geo’s business. Maybe the guy was bisexual. Maybe he liked dating women just fine.

Jayden came up to bat. Geo focused on his son, clapping hard. “Come on, Jayden! You’ve got this!”

Jayden took a wide stance beside the plate, both hands gripping the bat, choked up a little. Travis had spent a few minutes with Jayden at the start of the game, showing him how to stand, and Jayden copied him exactly. The kid was a great mimic. He’d been nervous at first, tense and defensive. But by now he just looked focused. He stared, narrow-eyed, at Frank as Frank pitched an easy ball.

Geo loved that about this game, that everyone tried to give the kids easy wins, and no one took the competition seriously.

Jayden hit the ball hard. It flew through the air a short ways then plonked to the ground and skipped along fast. It was heading right down the center line, though a bit more towards third base and Travis’s side of the field.

“Go Jayden! Go!” Geo shouted. He went after the ball. In his peripheral vision, he saw Jayden round first base and keep running.

Travis was going after the ball too, dodging low. He scooped it up. He was going to throw it to third base, keep Jayden back on second. Geo couldn’t let that happen.

He dove in front of Travis, crowding him, holding an arm out to block Travis from throwing the ball.

Travis snorted, bemused. “What are you doing? You’re on my team.” He backed up, trying to get away from Geo.

“Blood before bros, man,” Geo said with fake seriousness. He kept up with Travis, step for step, grabbing Travis’s right arm in a firm grip so he couldn’t raise the ball.

“Stop it!” Travis laughed. “Dork. That’s not legal.”

“Don’t care.”

They took three steps back, like they were dancing. Geo held Travis’s right arm, staring him down. Travis met his gaze, a goofy smile on his lips. Back and back they stumbled. Suddenly, Travis got a sparkle in his eyes. He wrapped his left arm around Geo’s waist and picked him up, swinging him around so he ended up behind Travis.

Geo was still finding his feet as Travis drew back his arm and sent the ball sailing.

Right to home plate. But Jayden got there first. Umpire Cindy made the motion with her hands, safe.

Geo laughed and raised his arms in triumph. “Yeah, baby! Great job, Jayden! Home run, whoo!”

Then he realized everyone was staring at them. On the sidelines, there were a dozen cameras raised, filming.

Oh. Er. Hmm. Geo wiped his face, feeling sheepish.

That’s when a piercing scream rent the air.



About Eli


Having been, at various times and under different names, a minister’s daughter, a computer programmer, a game designer, the author of paranormal mysteries, a fan fiction writer, and organic farmer, Eli has been a m/m romance author since 2013. She has over 30 books published.

Eli has loved romance since her teens and she particular admires writers who can combine literary merit, genuine humor, melting hotness, and eye-dabbing sweetness into one story. She promises to strive to achieve most of that most of the time. She currently lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, bulldogs, cows, a cat, and lots of groundhogs.

In romance, Eli is best known for her Christmas stories because she’s a total Christmas sap. These include “Blame it on the Mistletoe”, “Unwrapping Hank” and “Merry Christmas, Mr. Miggles”. Her “Howl at the Moon” series of paranormal romances featuring the town of Mad Creek and its dog shifters has been popular with readers. And her series of Amish-themed romances, Men of Lancaster County, has won genre awards.



Her website is www.elieaston.com

You can email her at eli@elieaston.com








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Season's Change (Trade Season #1) by Cait Nary

  Amazon Link    Goodreads Link A veteran hockey player and a rookie can't get away from each other—or their own desires—in this sexy, h...