Puzzle (White House Men #6) by Nora Phoenix

 

Amazon Link - Available in KU 
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Branson loves his job as an analyst for the CIA. Working on the investigation into the assassination of the president is fascinating, and even more so when Ryder, a geeky forensic accountant without a filter, joins the team.

But Ryder doesn’t seem to like Branson. At all. And when he explains to Branson why, Branson is forced to face an uncomfortable truth in the mirror Ryder holds up. Somewhere along the way, he lost sight of who he really is.

As they make crucial breakthroughs in the investigation, Branson is determined to change and earn Ryder’s approval. It seems to work when his tentative friendship with Ryder gets benefits added to it. Really good benefits thanks to a bossy bottom who knows what he wants and Branson having just the right tool for the job.

Sparks fly high between them, and much more is at stake than Branson ever thought possible. Can he become a man worthy of Ryder’s love? Can he show Ryder, who’s got his own wounds and baggage, that he has truly changed?

Puzzle is the sixth book in the White House Men series, a continuing MM romantic suspense series set in the White House that needs to be read in order. It ends with a HEA. 

My Rating - 3.5 Stars!

Puzzle is the sixth book in Nora Phoenix's White House Men series. This political thriller/romance series needs to be read in order. 

Branson and Ryder's story is sweet, but something held me back from fully connecting to them. Unfortunately, I don't really know what it is.

Neither man is what you'd expect which makes things interesting. 

I enjoy Ryder's quirks and the way they're all illustrated. He's on the spectrum and is honest and blunt. Some people could definitely be annoyed by some of his personality traits, but it's all well written and authentic. 

Their romance is a slow burn one, with the romance being in the background as the main focus is on solving the case. But the sex is definitely hot. 

I enjoy getting a chance to see the pervious characters that we've all come to love. With a continuing mystery, things are again picking up and we're getting closer to having all the answers.

This one was harder for me to get through, as some chapters were from the pov of previous characters. As I listen to my books, this disrupts the flow. It's probably easier if I was reading it traditionally. 

Puzzle is a nice addition to the ongoing mystery. This Nora Phoenix book definitely contributes to helping to solve the case, but the romance fell a little flat for me. 

The Friendship Equation by J.R. Gray

 

Amazon Link - Available in KU 
Goodreads Link

I never thought I’d go to college a virgin, but unless something changes, and fast, that’s what’s going to happen. In comes Harden Hart, my All American boy-next-door best friend with an offer to help in a way I’d never imagined.

The boy who turned everything he touched to gold had a filthy side to him I’d never seen. Oh, and did I mention he’s straight?

We could keep this fun but we had to hide it from both our fathers. We could smile for the cameras, focus on winning the state swimming championship and maintain Harden’s image. Easy enough, right?

Only Harden didn’t want to hide. His addiction to our not-so-private hook-ups put everything at risk with his father’s planned presidential run, and I risked losing my best friend if anyone found out.

But the biggest risk of all—the risk of breaking my own heart by falling for someone who was never mine to begin with.

Maybe love just isn't in the equation.

***The Friendship Equation is a childhood best-friends-to-lovers, bi for you, forbidden sports romance standalone, featuring a dirty-talking boy next door and his sweet virginal best friend. 

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

The Friendship Equation is a fabulous new adult romance by JR Gray. 

This story is that of two best friends, one of whom is a virgin. 

I was really excited going into this one. Although I enjoyed it, it took me a while to get into it. Later on though, when things get in their way, I became fully invested and loved it. 

This is just one of the those feel good, friends to lovers romance that you can't help but to internally swoon over. Best friends since kindergarten, these two have a bond as strong as one can have. And god, I love these two together. The feelings that develop are just perfect, and it's a fun ride as they fall in love. 

I always enjoy when a political family gets in the way of their child being out. And this one has just that, as Harden's father wants to run for president. This sets up a great dynamic, as the boys have always been best friends, but for appearances sake, Vance knows he's beneath him. 

This is a story with a virgin, some sexual exploration, and best friends to lovers. There's political issues involved, as well as sports, and being separated for the first time because of college. 

As always, the writing is good and the JR's storyline will keep you reading late in the night. 

The Friendship Equation is a wonderful friends to lovers new adult romance. JR Gray does a fabulous job creating a strong friendship and testing these men on the strength of their love. It's a great feel-good story with enough angst to keep things interesting. 

Valor: The Complete Duology by Keira Andrews

 

Amazon Link   - Available in KU  

Goodreads Link

Forbidden love in the White House—read the complete action-packed romance!

He’d give his life to protect the president’s son. But he never expected to risk his heart.

Growing up gay in the White House hasn’t been easy for Rafael Castillo. Codenamed “Valor” by the Secret Service, Rafa feels anything but brave as he hides in the closet and tries to stay below the radar in his last year of college.

It’s definitely not part of Rafa’s plan to get a hot new Secret Service agent, but he’s made it this long dateless and innocent, keeping his desires strictly to himself. Besides, it’s not like Shane Kendrick would even look at him twice if it wasn’t his job.

While protecting the president’s shy, boring son isn’t Shane's dream White House assignment, it’s an easy enough task since no one pays Rafa much attention. He discovers there’s a vibrant young man beneath the timid public shell, and while he knows Rafa has a crush on him, he assures himself it’s harmless. Shane’s never had room for romance in his life, and he’d never cross that line with a protectee.

But he's never been tempted like this before.

Even if Shane and Rafa can run away together, will their forbidden love survive in the real world?

Read Valor on the Move and Test of Valor in one convenient collection!

Valor: The Complete Duology by Keira Andrews is a collection of two M/M bodyguard gay romances featuring an age difference, Jane Austen levels of pining, first times, forbidden love against the odds, and of course a happy ending.

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Valor: The Complete Duology is a fabulous read by Keira Andrews. I am thrilled that these books are being re-released in this duology, as I loved them when I first read them years ago. 

This is forbidden romance at it's finest, with the President's son falling for his bodyguard. Cue all the feels. I love the way the two slowly connect, despite knowing they shouldn't. They bond on a level a bodyguard shouldn't bond with his charge. And it's awesome!

There's plenty of intrigue, danger, and action. This is Washington after all. There's romance, politics, and plenty of sexual connection. And, of course, with his dad being in the White House, Rafa has been hiding his sexuality. 

Their story also includes grief and loss, and learning to make the most out of one's life. This part is wonderfully done. 

I enjoy the forbidden aspect a lot, as it certainly leads to some interesting things once they are outed. I also enjoy the complex nature of the family issues. 

I don't want to give everything away, but the two fight hard to be together and to be accepted among Rafa's family and Shane's colleagues. Both men get a chance for happiness and fully embrace this opportunity. 

Valor: The Complete Duology is a fabulous bodyguard romance. I enjoy every moment of this Keira Andrews gem. The relationship, as well as the political factor are riveting. If you haven't yet read this one, do yourself a favor and set some time aside for it. 

The Endgame by Riley Hart

 

Amazon Link   - Available in KU 

Goodreads Link

Weston
When I left home, I swore I'd never hide anything about myself again. From college, to law school, to the United States Senate representing California, I've done it all as an out gay man. So, when I'm in DC and see a beautiful guy at the hotel bar, I don't hesitate to proposition him...right before he runs out on me, leaving his sunglasses behind like my very own Cinderfella.

Anson
I've always known I'm gay, but never acted on it. Pretending isn't easy, but it means I can keep playing football. No one has ever guessed my secret until the gorgeous man at a bar in DC. At least he doesn't know who I am--the best tight end in the NFL, playing for the Atlanta Lightning. Though my identity doesn't stay a secret from him for long.

Between texts and late-night phone calls, we get to know each other. West's the only person who knows all the parts of me, just like I know his. When he asks for one night together so he can show me what it's like to be with a man, I can't say no. But once isn't enough, and we keep sneaking around together--brief encounters, in California, Georgia, or DC, filled with passionate touches and whispered truths.

I never thought I'd have love. West never thought he'd want it. Now we're all in with each other, but he still has time left in his Senate term. I have contract obligations to fulfill, and I'm closeted. We don't even live in the same state. The odds are stacked against us, but if there's one thing I know, it's how to win. He's the endgame in the biggest challenge of my life, the one I'm banking my future happiness on.

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Holy crap! The Endgame is a fabulous sports romance by Riley Hart. It's no surprise that I love this book, as I love Riley's writing, but, wow, I am still impressed. 

Weston and Anson. I love them. An openly gay senator and a closeted football player. Every single moment of this story is amazing!

First, I adore the way they meet. The attraction is there, but the denial is all too strong for Anson. 

Second, I adore the nicknames in their phones. 

Third, I just love this book! The feelings that develop little by little is just awesome. I love seeing them go from a flirting, to a hook up, to friends with benefits and more. 

This book is all consuming and amazingly riveting. 

As for the scenes with Anson's brother, omg, I can't get enough of that relationship. Just amazing moments and attitudes. Just beautiful! The accident is heartbreaking, but I adore everything about Elias's attitude. The fact that this accident has thrown Anson even further into the closet is heartbreaking. Hell, everything about their relationship is heartbreaking, and yet stunningly beautiful. 

Th author wonderfully explores the world of being gay in sports. The fear. The trauma involved. The pain of being closeted. The pain of lying and keeping secrets. The pain of not being able to be open and proud of who you love. The absolute devastation of possibly being outed. Riley hits on all of it and it's fantastic. 

As for Anson's need to be perfect, wow, what a thought provoking aspect of his character. 

This story has all the feels. Their chemistry is off the charts. They're seriously sizzling together. And damn, when they finally have penetrative sex, just kill me with that scene! And omg, the scene where Weston kisses all of Anson's bruises. I can't get enough of it. Just freaking swoon!!!

Written in alternating first person pov, the characters fully come to life and their emotions often jump off the pages. Each character, even the side characters, are complex and easy to relate to. 

The Endgame is a must read for fans of sports romances. This Riley Hart read is wonderful and I can't recommend it enough. And the ending is just perfect!

Rex v. Regina (The Line of Succession #4) by Harry F. Rey

 

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Goodreads Link

The throne lies empty, the monarchy is in chaos, and a country mourns.

Fresh on the news that the Queen is near death comes the tragic demise of Prince James’ fiancée, Princess Katyn.

As the country gathers together to bury Katyn, James’ secret lover Andrew realizes the establishment has brutally turned against the Prince. Where the powers-at-be were once pushing for a smooth transition to King James, they now seem to favor his twin sister Alexandra and are working to upend the line of succession to see her sit on the throne. When Andrew discovers the cause of this betrayal is because James has received a life-changing diagnosis, the two men must decide what love and life and happiness mean to them, even at the expense of the throne.

It’s brother versus sister, Prince versus Princess, as James and Alexandra confront the paths laid out before them by both friends and foes. With the Queen’s last hours counting down, James and Alexandra will have to fight with everything they have to wear the crown...and to survive. 

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Rex v. Regina is the fourth book in The Line of Succession series by Harry F Rey. This series continues to be full of backstabbing, murder, and blackmailing. As well as sex and drugs. All for the power of the crown. The queen is about to die and the power of the crown is on the line. 

James and Andrew not only have to deal with politics, but also with James' HIV status. Awww...Andrew and James. I continue to love them, but I definitely struggle with their open relationship. It's the carelessness of their pasts that bothers me. I think. I want to like it more. Hell, the threesome is hot. But something holds me back from loving these scenes. Maybe it's the crap with Grant. On the other hand, having Andrew help James with his fear of sex again is beautiful. Damn these men are tight and they definitely belong together. 

Alexandra continues to be in line for the crown, but her marriage and her child definitely complicate the issue. And I continue to both love and hate her at the same time.

My only complaint is that it is getting harder to remember everything as we are now on book 4. With so many characters being further developed and explored, it's complex and messy. It's much easier to re-read the previous books before starting this book. 

The writing continues to be stellar, with a multi-layered plot and intriguing characters. It definitely writes like a tv show with all it's layers. Each character is both good and bad. Each character is likeable and yet deplorable. It's well done. It all continues to straddle the fine line between realistic and not. But, hell, we all know the extreme mess that political scandals have caused in the past, so yes, it's realistic.

The Line of Succession series is definitely for anyone who loves a messy thriller. Harry F Rey continues to weave a crazy tale of political intrigue and family drama. It's definitely a Netflix worthy saga. 

RELEASE BLITZ, EXCERPT & REVIEW - Press (White House Men #1) by Nora Phoenix

 

Goodreads Link

Amazon US   -  Available in KU

Henley is off-limits for Levar. So why can’t he stay away?

Five years ago, Levar survived a terrorist attack. The bombing left its scars, but he’s picked up his life. He loves working for the vice president—who is openly bisexual—as his press secretary.

Levar can’t afford a pesky attraction that proves to be frustratingly stubborn. Worse, those highly combustible sparks are with the very last person he should be falling for: Henley Platt, a well-known reporter covering the White House.

Henley may not be Levar’s enemy, but he’s definitely not his friend. He can’t be, not when their jobs put them on opposite sides. Henley is absolutely off-limits, even when he shows his appreciation for the sexy lingerie Levar loves to wear.

When the terrorists strike again with a devastating blow to the White House, Levar and Henley lean on each other for support. The sparks become a raging fire that won’t be doused, but what happens if they’re found out?

Press is the first book in the White House Men series, a romantic suspense gay romance series set in the White House. Think The West Wing but gay, and with less politics. Each book has a new love story with a happily ever after, but the suspense plot will continue throughout the books, so the series needs to be read in order. Press has 100k words. TW for terrorism and violence.

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My Rating - 5 Stars!

Nora Phoenix's Press is the first book in the White House Men series. And it's fabulous. From the first page, I was hooked. 

Set in The White House, this book illustrates some of the crazy atmosphere and pace of working in The White House. I have never seen The West Wing, but am told this is modeled after that show. Thus, anyone who's a fan of that show, will definitely love this book. I know I loved it. 

The writing style is wonderful, as I've come to expect from this author. The characters are complex and their storyline full of action, danger, romance and more. There's plenty of time devoted to the conflict of interest aspect which is all well done. And then there's the kink. This is an author who always delights us with some kink, and this time it's a business man who wears panties under his suits. Hot!

Levar and Henry make for a fantastic couple. They both experienced a horrific terroristic attack, which is all very well detailed. And then they find themselves in political jobs that won't allow them to be together. I love the conflict involved and the forbidden aspect of the storyline. 

This is a tale with lots of political talk, along with plenty of suspense and intrigue. Both men are working in their dream jobs and the friendship that develops is compelling, making for a nice read. But it's the attraction, tension, and desires that make this one ever better. 

If you don't like politics, I don't think that matters too much. Yes, there is plenty of politics involved, but overall, everything has to do with these men, their jobs, and their connection to the political scene. 

Press is a fun story. This Nora Phoenix gem starts the White House Men series on a stellar note. I can't wait to see what happens next to all the characters involved and the overall mystery. Basically, this book is a great forbidden romance which will leave you happy to have read it. 

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Out of everything he could’ve said, his brain latched on to one thing Henley had mentioned. “You like my panties?”

Henley shot him a questioning look. “You sound surprised. Wouldn’t every man in my situation appreciate them?”

Levar propped himself up on his elbow. “Some men feel they’re too feminine.”

“Really? Let me have a better look.”

Before Levar realized what he was doing, Henley had whipped the covers off him, exposing him and his still-hard dick in all its glory. Henley took him in, then licked his lips with a smack. “Nope, nothing feminine about that, and that’s coming from a man who can appreciate feminine curves as much as a male hard body and anything in between. You’re all male, baby, and those panties are delicious on you. Absolutely edible.”

He dropped the covers back onto Levar, who lay stunned for a moment. What the hell had just happened? But then he cracked a smile, which morphed into a full laugh. “You’re nuts.”

Henley winked at him. “True, but that doesn’t mean I’m wrong.”

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Would you like the long or the short version of my bio?

The short? You got it.

I write steamy gay romance books and I love it. I also love reading books. Books are everything.

How was that?

A little more detail? Gotcha.

I started writing my first stories when I was a teen…on a freaking typewriter. I still have these, and they’re adorably romantic. And bad, haha. Fear of failing kept me from following my dream to become a romance author, so you can imagine how proud and ecstatic I am that I finally overcame my fears and self-doubt and did it. I adore my genre because I love writing and reading about flawed, strong men who are just a tad broken..but find their happy ever after anyway.

My favorite books to read are pretty much all MM/gay romances as long as it has a happy end. Kink is a plus… Aside from that, I also read a lot of nonfiction and not just books on writing. Popular psychology is a favorite topic of mine and so are self-help and sociology.

Hobbies? Ain’t nobody got time for that. Just kidding. I love traveling, spending time near the ocean, and hiking. But I love books more.

Come hang out with me in my Facebook Group Nora’s Nook where I share previews, sneak peeks, freebies, fun stuff, and much more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/norasnook/

My weekly newsletter not only gives you updates, exclusive content, and all the inside news on what I’m working on, but also lists the best new releases, 99c deals, and freebies in gay romance for that weekend. Load up your Kindle for less money!  Sign up here: http://www.noraphoenix.com/newsletter/

You can also stalk me on Twitter: @NoraFromBHR

On Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/nora.phoenix/

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https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nora-phoenix

Governing Passions (Love in a Changing Climate Book 2) by Chris Cheek

Amazon Link - Available in KU
Goodreads Link

"How could I trust him not to do the same thing again? Politics were his life; how would he react if all he’d worked for was threatened? The danger was that, confronted with choices over his career and his personal life, he would choose his career."

Dan Forrester is a rising star of the government, but he has a secret that he keeps well hidden from family, friends and colleagues – he’s gay. He also deeply regrets his callousness towards the one man with whom he could have formed a meaningful relationship.

Luke Carter is now a successful environmental consultant working on a government contract. When the two meet again, it is an encounter that will change both their lives for ever.

Set against the backdrop of Brexit, Governing Passions explores what happens when political and personal lives collide. Can Dan’s career survive? More importantly, when faced with a choice between love and duty, does he want it to?

Often shocking in its exposé of life in the corridors of powers, Governing Passions casts light on a period in recent history that has affected us all. It is also a tender love story that explores the cost that people still pay for being true to their sexuality.

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Governing Passions, the second book in Chris Cheek's Love in a Changing Climate series, is a book that grabbed me immediately. It is easily read as a standalone. 

A tale of two best friends, Luke is secretly in love with his best friend, Dan. And yes, I am a complete sucker for friends to lovers. Making it a second chance romance just ups the fun. 

Fifteen years have passed since they lost touch and the two men  are reunited through work. Dan is in parliament, still closeted, and still avoiding any real relationships. The last person he expects to be working with is his former friend Luke. 

This is a story with a heavy political element and the struggle of being gay in politics. I find this aspect to be well explored, as well as intriguing.

Luke and Dan are fantastic together, and their journey is extremely compelling. I mentally fell into their story completely, easily riding along as they dealt with their feelings and struggled with some tough decisions. 

If you enjoy reading about closeted politicians, you will love Governing Passions. This Chris Cheek read is wonderfully written, and consumed me throughout. I just love it!

Crash (Northwoods # 2) by Grant C. Holland

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Goodreads Link

“Please don’t let me die.”

When Hal, a victim of a small plane crash in the Minnesota Northwoods, first met Gabe, the earliest EMT on the scene, surviving to see another day was the only thing on his mind. But there is more behind the warm, reassuring smile. Gabe is like a stone dropped into the pond of Hal's life, causing ripples that will change everything forever.

Hal Brentwood is the straight son of an East Coast corporate titan. With his good looks and innocent charm, he’s selected as the family’s ticket into the world of politics.

Gabe Peligo is a triple-trained first responder for the small Northwoods town of Arrowhead Falls. He’s EMT, firefighter, and sometimes police presence in an area that caters to thousands of tourists looking for an escape from their hectic world back home. Saving lives is his life work.

In the hospital following the crash, a spark passes between Hal and Gabe. Outdoor adventures fan a smoldering attraction into flames. Gabe brings Hal to life in ways that he never expected.

Unfortunately, life circumstances threaten to stop them from building a relationship. Gabe’s circle of friends are natural political enemies for Hal. The idea of Hal coming out gay during a political campaign is anathema to his campaign manager and, ultimately, his all-powerful father. Will their hearts find a way to be together or will the interests of others be impossible to overcome?

Crash is a 60,000 word male-male romance set in the Northwoods of Minnesota. It is the second book in the Northwoods series and includes characters from the first. It may be read as a standalone romance. It includes first time gay, coming out, and fish out of water themes. There are steamy moments and a guaranteed happy ending.

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Crash is the second book in Grant C Holland's Northwoods series, which is a sweet small town series.

This one has politics involved, as Hal, a city guy comes to Northwoods to run for office. When he's in a plane crash, he meets Gabe, who saves his life. What follows is a great romance, with a lone kiss and some nice first times and a whole lot of character growth. 

Hal has been living the life he's been forced into. He's always been closeted, denying his desires. Until meeting Gabe, and suddenly wanting more. 

The writing is wonderful, as the author excels in combining small town feels with tender romance. Both men are well developed, with unique backgrounds, personalities, and voices. And both men are perfectly lovable. I enjoy the easy manner with everything unfolds for them. It's definitely a story of two men who are meant to be together, and make one another better. 

I truly enjoyed Crash. This Grant C Holland story is perfect when you're looking for a sweet coming out romance.