RELEASE BLITZ & REVIEW - MF - Stargazer (Speakeasy Taproom #8) by Wendy S. Marcus

STARGAZER BY WENDY S. MARCUS

Release Date: September 2, 2021

Amazon: https://geni.us/AmazonStargazer

Add to Goodreads → http://bit.ly/3cy07jg

Series Page → https://hearteyespress.com/wotn#/speakeasy-taproom/

Cover Design: Elle Maxwell Designs

Randall Dickson is coping. Sort of. An upcoming medical eval, one that could end his military career, has him stressed and making bad choices. So when a concerned friend issues a strongly-worded “invitation” to Vermont, R.D. is all in for a change of scenery, a temporary job as a bartender, and the opportunity to shake himself out of his self-destructive routine. 

Then he sets eyes on his seriously sexy new co-worker… 

Lily Reynolds, an artist by day, Speakeasy’s favorite bartender at night, works hard to stay positive, unlike her surly new coworker. He may be a treat to look at, but that grumpy attitude and terse manner are not her type. So when Lily finds herself in desperate need of someone to share expenses, she convinces R.D. to rent her vacant room. There’s no way she’ll find herself falling for him.

She’d like to find the secret admirer who’s leaving her secret love notes around the bar, though. But he won’t reveal himself... 

This standalone contains: opposites who definitely attract, a workplace romance, and an opinionated French bulldog.

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Stargazer is the eighth book in the Speakeasy Taproom series. This is Wendy S Marcus' contribution to this multi-author series. 

This story is charming, sweet, and beautiful, despite all though heavy and serious moments. 

Lily and RD make for a great couple. The opposites attract aspect is fully illustrated, making for some delightful moments. I enjoy the way that forced proximity plays a role in their story, as becoming roommates brings them closer.

I am obsessed with Lily's resin work. The author fully brings her creations to life and they sound amazing. I love watching videos of resin tables being made and other resin projects and this part just made me smile.

As for the addiction element, it's written with care and compassion. We all know how easy it is to become dependent on pain killers, so I appreciate RJ's issues. 

This is a story with some family issues, a secret admirer, and addiction to painkillers. 

The writing is great, with interesting characters and a compelling storyline. Everything flows well and I couldn't put it down. 

Stargazer is a great addition to this small town series. Wendy S Marcus brings everything to life well and created a feel good romance. 

MF - Two Different Sides (Consistently Inconsistent #2) by L.A. Tavares

 

Amazon Link   - Available in KU  

Goodreads Link

All bets are off.

Blake Mathews is out of luck.

The music, the fame, the love of his life… They’re not enough for him. His tendency to make large bets at expensive tables could cost him everything—the band, the money and the girl.

Blake thought things couldn’t get any worse, but he lost that bet too. Someone from his past shows up after a decade of silence with new information about who Blake is, where he came from and the fact that he has family who is closer than he thinks.

Told on two different timelines—now and then—the story recounts the upbringing of the bass guitarist and his friend, lead singer Xander Varro, dating back to the two meeting, starting the band and the trouble and triumphs that unfold as the two grow to the present-day versions of themselves.

For Blake, history tends to repeat itself, but with the help of his band, the girl he’s been chasing since his teen years and the family he didn’t know he had, the chance to break the dark cycles is in the cards for him, if he chooses to play the game.

Reader advisory: This book deals with a gambling addiction and parental abandonment. This book is best read in order as part of the Consistenty Inconsistent series.

My Rating - 4 Stars!

Two Different Sides is a great addition to the Consistently Inconsistent series. I love One More Motion, the first book in this LA Tavares series, so I was excited to read this. 

This is definitely more of a novel that follows Blake and his journey that happens to include a romance. Yes, the story revolves around his relationship with the girl he loves, but the emotions for the romance aren't felt much. Rather, Blake's emotional state in general is the overriding tone throughout. I was always more worried about him in general than I was about his romance. 

I definitely love the connection between the band members. That is the real connection felt throughout. The reader is easily rooting for Blake to find his way in the world again, and for his friendships to stay intact.

This is a story of addiction. It that's a trigger for you, avoid this one. For Blake, his addiction is gambling. And his journey is maddening and so frustrating. 

In the end, the storyline comes full circle in ways I never expected, with some nice twists and turns. 
And by the end, everything is heart warming. 

I was extremely impressed with the author's way of bringing everything to a happy ending. These peopl seemed destined for a life of pain, but the author easily brings them to a happy ending in a believable way. 

Two Different Sides ends up being a deep read. I enjoyed all of this LA Tavares book and highly recommend it when you're in the mood for a serious tale. 

Deep Edge (Harrisburg Railers #3) by R.J. Scott & V.L. Locey

 

Amazon Link   

Goodreads Link

One man’s passion, another man’s lies. Can love fix even the darkest of hearts?

Trent Hanson is a figure skating phenom adored by millions around the world. His whole life has been dedicated to the sport he loves even when the sport - and his own family - have turned against him. From the playground to the Olympics to his parent’s living room, Trent has fought against bullies and homophobes to be the out and proud gay man he is. But the constant fighting has left Trent tired, lonely, and skittish. All those fears will have to be shelved though when he’s hired to spend the summer working with the Harrisburg Railers ice hockey team. Who would have guessed that the man fate has decided to pair him off with is Dieter Lehmann, all-around sex god and a man who seems to have everything to prove and doesn’t care who he hurts to get what he wants.

Dieter has spent too many years languishing in the minors, and a secret addiction to prescription painkillers means his career is in a downward spiral. His ex is blackmailing him, and he’s close to walking away from it all. But when he’s called up in the run for the Stanley Cup to cover injuries he has a taste of what it’s like playing in the NHL, and he realizes that a place on the Railers’ roster is what he wants more than anything. More than listening to his heart, and even more than caring for the infuriating figure skater who gets under his skin. When he crosses the line to get what he wants, he knows he has lost his way. He has to change, but is it too late for both his career and any chance he might have at love?

Word Count: 51,000

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Deep Edge, the third book in the Harrisburgh Railers series, is wonderful. This is one of those series I could re-read often. I love it all. Each hockey book from RJ Scott and VL Locey is a one click for sure!

This is the story of Trent and Dieter. Trent's a flamboyant ice skater who hates hockey players. And Dieter's a hockey player with a substance abuse issue. 

The addition aspect is an ongoing issue for these men. Not only does Trent hate hockey players, he wants nothing to do with someone who has an addiction problem. And Dieter, well, let's just say Dieter has a lot of issues to deal with. 

Trent's family issues are sad, leaving him drowning in pain. He's dealt with a lot concerning his mother and stepfather and I'm impressed with the way this issue is ultimately dealt with. There are definitely fun moments though with his Lola. 

Of course the writing is great, with interesting characters and an intriguing storyline. There's some good banter and humor to help lighten things up from the serious subject matters at hand. This storyline coincides with the events from book two. The authors do a fantastic job retelling these events from a different perspective, without forcing a lot of duplication. 

Deep Edge is a great story. RJ Scott and VL Locey left me in love with these men and their tough stories. With some serious topics, including addiction and gambling issues, as well as forgiveness and trust, the story is a one sitting kind of tale. 

Winter Solstice in St. Nacho's (St. Nacho's #5) by Z.A. Maxfield

Amazon Link - Available in KU
Goodreads Link

Can a winter solstice miracle bring Luke and Tug a second chance at love, or will Tug’s dangerous addiction destroy their happiness forever?

Librarian Luke believes “Everything is possible at the library.” He cheerfully provides his patrons with whatever they need, even if that means administering Naloxone when they overdose in the library bathroom.

Tug’s a heroin addict. He’s in the grip of a powerful addiction. He has no self-esteem. He sees no way out. When old crush Luke offers help, Tug’s willing to see what he can get out of the deal. But there’s a terrible cost to exploring his painful past and claiming his second chance.

Miracles happen for the men of St. Nacho’s. Will Tug seize a new life and the chance to be with Luke? Or will he give in to the siren’s song of a drug he can’t resist?

Z.A. Maxfield pens a taut and tender second chance gay romance novella. If you believe a good man can find love even on the darkest, longest night, buy “Winter Solstice in St. Nacho’s” for an HFN you will believe in today.

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Winter Solstice in St Nacho's in an incredible addition story. The fifth book in ZA Maxfield's St Nacho's series, it fully addresses the addiction problems facing our society right now, tying it into a tender romance. 

Everything about this romance is emotional. Luke helps save Tug's life when he's found almost dead after an overdose. What follows is the aftermath, as Luke tries to help Tug get help and overcome his addiction. 

There's a personal connection to the men, as Luke once tutored the younger Tug. Luke's inability to walk away from Tug makes him special, but the pain of this decision is well addressed.  

What makes this tale so special is the way the author approached Tug's addiction. Everything is written with care and compassion, reality and tenderness combined. It's truly a beautiful story, all tied together with the theme of the winter solstice in a meaningful way. I fully appreciate the way the author made Tug deal with himself before moving into a relationship.

Winter Solstice in St Nacho's is a stunning standalone in the St Nacho's series. ZA Maxfield brings these men to St Nacho's, fully bringing them into the magic of the place. If you've been following this series you won't be disappointed. And if you've never read the series, don't let that stop you. It's easily read as a standalone and perfect for the next time you are in the mood for a serious hurt/comfort tale that deals with addiction.

Collaring Chaz (Dante's Infernal #2) by Joel Abernathy

 

Amazon Link - Available in KU
Goodreads Link

Chaz

Rafael is the best friend-with-benefits a guy could ask for, but I had to go and screw it all up by falling in love.

Everyone gets sick of me eventually. My birth parents, the endless conveyor belt of foster homes, even the band that became my family.

Why should Raf be any different?

When he wants to take our friendship to the next level by welcoming me into his world of collars and pet names that make me feel wanted and cherished, I know it can’t be permanent.

No matter what he says, there’s no way someone like him could actually want me forever. But I’m going to enjoy pretending for as long as it lasts.

Rafael

I spent so long pining after my best friend, I didn’t even realize the perfect guy was right under my nose.

Chaz is an adorkable goofball who’s kept a band full of hotheads from melting down on numerous occasions, and he and I are perfectly in sync in and out of the bedroom.

Turns out, he’s also a natural submissive who just might be the pup I’ve always wanted, if I can convince him this thing between us is meant to last forever, and not just be a one-hit wonder.

Collaring Chaz is a surprisingly sweet M/M rock star romance loaded with angst, band drama, contractual pup play, a cinnamon roll MC struggling with mental health and addiction, and a dominant rock god who saves him.

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

I was elated to get a chance to review Joel Abernathy's Collaring Chaz. I am thrilled to once again get to spend time with the messed up men of Dante's Infernal. The second book in the series, I would highly suggest reading Taming Dante first.

Chaz and Rafe have one hell of a complicated and messy relationship. Best friends since they were young, Chaz is hopelessly in love with Raf, and they've been friends with benefits for a while. So complicated indeed. And in all the band drama, Chaz's meltdowns, managerial hell, and things just get messier.

This book will have your emotions running all over the place, smiling one moment, and wanting to scream the next. Chaz is way too easygoing, always trying to please everyone. It's frustrating and hard to read. Chaz is so damn easy to love but he's also a god damn mess. Hell, I wanted to protect him and love him myself. Luckily he had Raf to fufill that role in the end. But good god, it's much harder to love Raf. He's just aggressive and forceful, with needs that Chaz can't meet, yet in the end he's protective and loving. 

If you enjoy Puppy play, this is a must read. The author not only adds in puppy play, but takes Chaz through the exploration and education of what puppy play is and how it can help him. It's wonderfully written and emotional as can be. 

Of course, there's also some great banter and humor. There's one particular sex scene that left me chuckling. Omg, I am still laughing thinking about the phone call. 

There is one thing I didn't like though. I was surprised at the end with Chaz's discovery. It was suddenly thrown out there, making me question if I had missed something. I would have definitely preferred more discussion on his condition. 

Collaring Chaz is a fantastic addition to the Dante's Infernal series. Joel Abernathy has created a fabulously messy world and these extremely chaotic characters who continue to keep me intrigued and riveted. These men are absolutely addicting and I can't wait to get more of this band. If you're in the mood for messy and angsty, this is your read.

Flirting with Fire (Shore Thing #3) by Grace Kilian Delaney

 

Amazon Link 
Goodreads Link

A stuntman with a love for fire.
A yoga teacher in search of zen.
A holiday season neither will forget.

Stunt performer and self-declared badass, Tate Astbury returns to his hometown to spend another dreaded Thanksgiving with his dad. But his father forgets and makes other plans, resigning Tate to a quiet and depressing holiday alone unless he can find someplace else to celebrate.

When Tate’s mischievous friend learns about the unfortunate twist, he dares Tate to enter a radio contest to become a fake boyfriend for a desperate caller’s holiday dinner, and Tate never turns down a dare.

Endre Michel is a mess. His yoga business is on the cusp of ruin, and his moms are visiting from out of state for the holiday, intent on meeting his boyfriend, a person Endre invented. Through the contest, he meets Tate, a crude, tattooed older man who plays the role of doting boyfriend so well, Endre suspects and hopes it’s not all for show.

Neither man can deny the unintended connection, and they struggle to overcome the distance between Tate’s put-together Hollywood career and the chaos surrounding Endre’s unsteady future—a situation that intensifies when an unthinkable tragedy uncovers a dark and painful truth.

Will Tate and Endre’s future together perish in flames, or can their love rise from the ashes?

Flirting with Fire can be read as a standalone holiday romance with several cups of angst, questionable jokes, a bird with a wicked sense of humor, a bed with loud, squeaky springs, and an HFN/HEA ending.

CW: suicide, substance abuse disorder, grief, mental illness

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Flirting with Fire is a wonderful hurt/comfort read by Grace Kilian Delaney. The third book in the Shore Thing series, it's easily read as a standalone. 

The themes explored throughout this book are heavy. There's a huge emphasis on grief, guilt, depression, and addiction. Everything is written with extreme care, compassion, and heart. It's realistic, emotional, and all consuming. I am downright impressed with the way the author handles everything. 

As for Tate and Endre, they meet via a radio contest for a fake boyfriend for the holidays situation. It's a cute thing and I adore their first meeting, as things get off to a bad start. They do eventually click and end up being great supports for one another.

Learning the details of these men's pasts is as emotional as it gets. Both suffered, and continue to suffer, greatly. The meat of this story is Endre and the fact that his life is at a crossroads. Things with his best friend are strained, he's struggling with his business decision, and he's trying to stay clean through it all. It's a lot to deal with and the reader gets a front row seat for it all. 

One of the highlights of this story for me is the way Endre uses his videos to talk through his pain and addiction issues. He not only talks through his current issues, but we get flashbacks to how he started doing so and why. He's open and honest about his addiction and recovery, putting his vulnerability out into the world. It's remarkable and would be a fantastic way for many people to deal with such issues in real life. I truly love this. 

I love and adore Tate and Endre as a couple. They have a lot on their plates and many reasons to not try to be together, including distance. But through it all, they genuinely are perfect for one another and help the other to heal. Fate is definitely at play for these two.

And then there's Endre and Jackson. What a complicated relationship these two have. Omg, my heart breaks for Jackson and I completely understand his decisions, despite the impact they have on Endre. I am crossing my fingers that we get Jackson's story, as I desperately need him to find love. 

This story has a lot going on. Much of it is the men dealing with their emotional baggage. It has looks into Tate's career as a stunt man and the danger he faces. There's also real life danger to deal with, as well as some twists and turns that help bring this story full circle. I should say, the twists and turns weren't a shock to me, as I suspected the big reveal all along, but I love the way it's developed and executed. Another well done moment for the author.

In the end, Flirting With Fire is a beautiful story. This Grace Killian Delaney book is one hell of a ride. as we're reminded that sometimes what looks like a bad thing can actually be a new opportunity for better things. Definitely consider this book the next time you're in the mood for an angst ridden emotional journey towards healing. You won't regret it. 

RELEASE BLITZ, EXCERPT & REVIEW - Wood (A True Lover's Story #2) by A.E. Via

Wood: A True Lover's Story

AE Via

M/M Romance

Release Date: 08.08.20

Goodreads Link

 

It’s been a long seventeen years but Herschel Wood Jr. is finally a free man and he’s looking forward to reconnecting with his old cellmate, Bishop Stockley, who promised him a place to stay and some help getting back on his feet. Wood had a good life once upon time when he’d owned one of the most successful tattoo shops on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront – until a fatal accident that was his fault cost him everything.

Now at forty-six years old, all Wood wants is to work in another shop on the beach and find a mature, easygoing man to settle down with. But when he gets to his new place and finds he has to share the small trailer with Bishop’s childhood friend, he wasn’t expecting a sexy, smart-mouthed brat that enjoys pushing a man to his limits.

Wood pressed in tight until there was only misunderstanding between them, his mouth mere inches from Trent’s parted lips. “You wanted to get a reaction out of me you annoying, immature little shit… now you’ve got one.”

Trent Armstrong has never been considered a catch. He’s a twenty-nine year old laborer, an ex-con, and not the easiest person to get along with. He’s used to being the one people cast to the side when they're done with him. Everyone he’s ever cared about has walked out of his life without a backward glance, so he’s used to the loneliness. His foul mouth and quick temper are a great defense mechanism and an easy way to hide his hurt.

From the moment the tattooed, silver-haired man walked into the house there had been nothing but tension, side-eyeing, and sparks between them. Trent has always held back a side of himself that he’s terrified to explore, and without warning Wood’s voice, his maturity, that maddening scent, and even his damaged past all trigger feelings that Trent thought he’d buried deep long ago.

Trent went completely still when Wood dragged his nose over his forehead and down the side of his face. His voice was shaky, and his breaths were hot and swift along Wood’s throat. “What the hell are you doing?”

“I’m doing what you want me to do.” Wood whispered. “I’m playing your bullshit game, Trent.”

The True Lover's Stories are connected standalones. Each title features a different couple but will contain previously mentioned characters.

No multiple pairings. No cliffhanger. Ends with a HEA.

Note: This is a steaming agnsty, age gap, new-to-love romance.

Amazon US   *    Universal Link

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My Rating - 5 Stars!

Wood, the second book in the A True Lover's Story series, is another fabulously gripping read. AE Via captured my heart with this tender tale of two flawed men falling in love. 

Although this story could probably be read as a standalone, if you haven't yet read book one, Bishop, stop and do so now. That book is magnificent and will help set up this story. 

Wood, fresh out of prison after 17 years behind bars, seeks out his friend Bishop for help. His story thoroughly explores the struggles to re-enter society with the stigmas of being an ex-con attached to one's name. The author excels in exploring these issues, including making amends to those hurt, along with guilt, grief, regret, and remorse. It's a heavy story that definitely requires the reader to be in the right mindset before reading it, so be warned. 

Both men have a complicated past, with plenty of inner struggles. They are well developed, with realistic issues and personalities that fully come to life. I already fell for Wood, as his story is just tragic, but Trent's background is also something that explains his prickly actions and makes me want to hug him. 

As for the romance, Wood and Trent get off to an awkward start, as they certainly don't mesh well. Their tale is one of forced proximity that brings the men closer together. The age gap is fun and a nice addition to their relationship. And as for the chemistry between the men, well damn, it's intense and hot. They are spectacular together and will leave you happy to have spent time with them. 

And then there are the secondary characters, who add a lot to the story, as well as bantering with the men throughout. I love it all. 

Wood is a wonderful read. AE Via impresses in this story of learning from one's past and growing from it. Don't miss this one the next time you are looking for a great, serious story, with a happy ending. I can't wait for the next book in this amazing series. 

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“Are you fucking crazy?”Trent hissed through clenched teeth, but the nerve he’d had behind his earlier words were gone, now replaced with caution…and lust. 

 

“I asked you politely not to call me that. Now, I’m telling you. Don’t. Do it. My name is Herschel Wood, Jr. No middle name. You can call me Herschel, or Wood, that’s it. I would’ve told you that if you’d bothered to ask.” Wood fumed. He had his forearm across Trent’s chest, pushing his back into the closet door at the end of the dark hallway. He couldn’t believe what he was doing, but how dare Trent drive him to the edge like this? Wood pressed in so tight until there was only air and misunderstanding between them, his mouth mere inches from Trent’s parted lips. “You wanted to get a reaction out of me, you annoying, immature little shit…now you’ve got one.”

 

Trent’s eyes blazed as he tried to shove off the door, but Wood held him in check with his mass. “Fuck you.”Trent grunted, his hot gaze lasered on Wood’s lips. 

 

Wood gave him a smirk and enjoyed as Trent squirmed even more against him. “You think I don’t know the game you’re playing? Maybe no one else does—even though I taught Bishop better—but I can see right through your transparent ass, Trent. So damn clearly.”

 

Trent’s masked desires were obvious—Wood had seen it the moment he’d laid eyes on him. He knew he hadn’t been wrong. But he’d wanted to leave Trent off-limits. Bishop just wanted them to be friends, but Wood was afraid he was finally going to have to tell his buddy that it wasn’t going to happen. The four of them wouldn’t be hanging out together all the time. There was too much screwed-up shit going on with Trent, and Wood deserved some peaceful days. He didn’t have the patience to put up with crap from hesitant men anymore. He had no doubt that Trent was pushing his buttons…because he wanted Wood to push his in return. 

 

“Wood,” Trent snarled, as he clutched tightly to his shoulders with both hands. 

 

Wood’s answer was another cunning smile. Did Trent even realize that he wasn’t pushing Wood away, he was holding him close? Wood wouldn’t point that out just yet. If Trent wanted to have some fun with him, then fine. He’d entertain himself until it was time for him to leave. He should’ve known this setup was too good to be true. What Trent pulled on him was exactly the kind of typical mess Wood was used to. People judging and condemning him for no reason. 

 

Trent went completely still when Wood dragged his nose over his forehead and down the side of his face. His voice was shaky, and his breaths were hot and swift along Wood’s throat. “The fuck are you doing?”

 

“I’m doing what you want me to do.” Wood clenched his teeth. “I’m playing your bullshit game, Trent.”

 

“I’m not playing anything,”he breathed. 

 

“Oh yeah you are.” Wood released Trent suddenly, but he didn’t pull away. He leaned in until his mouth was against Trent’s ear. “But I’m about to show you I’m much better at this game than you are.” Wood slowly eased away, then cocked his head to the side, motioning to Trent’s punishing grip he still had on his shoulders. “Now let me go.”

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A.E. Via has been a best-selling author in the beautiful gay romance genre for six years now, but she’s no stranger to MM. She’s been an avid reader of gay literature for over twenty years before she picked up her laptop to place her own kiss on this genre. She’s also the founder and owner of Via Star Wings Books, having published a couple great, new up and coming MM authors.

A.E. has a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Virginia Wesleyan College that she used to start her own paralegal firm after she graduated in 2008. She spent five years preparing and filing bankruptcy petitions for struggling blue collar workers who couldn’t afford to file with a lawyer. It was a rewarding and satisfying career… but another path called to her.

Writing.

A.E.’s novels embodies everything from hopelessly romantic to adventure, to scandalous. Her stories often include intriguing edges and twists that take readers to new, thought-provoking depths.

She’s recently celebrated her 20th book anniversary, and is well-known for her hardcore, love hard, bad boy, alphas. However, she does like to push herself to step out of her comfort zone, exploring different tropes. She’s head over heels for gay romance and she has tons of more hot stories to tell.

Be sure to visit Adrienne on her social media pages and subscribe to her newsletter to never miss another release date! Go to A.E. Via’s official website http://authoraevia.com for more detailed information on how to contact her, follow her, or a sneak peek at upcoming work, free reads, VSWB submissions, and where she’ll appear next.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48195130-bishop

Author Official Website: http://authoraevia.com

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Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/aeviaauthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorAEVia

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