Forbidden Ink (Get Ink'd #6) by Ali Lyda

 

Amazon Link - Available in KU 
Goodreads Link

I’m not a deadbeat.
I didn’t know my kid existed before Milo showed up, but now that I do, I’m determined to keep my beautiful little Sofie in my life. Even if it means I need to spend time around her irritable uncle, Milo. The man pushes all of my buttons.

He riles me up until I can’t think of anything except kissing him. Definitely not the reaction he expects. He’s not out, but I’m not the type to hide. Is there any way to make it work for our new family?

Family means everything.
Eryk’s a cocky playboy. He’s not good enough to be my niece’s father, but unfortunately, DNA says otherwise. Father or not, I’m not about to walk out of little Sofie’s life.

Which means I have to walk into Eryk’s even though I can’t stand him. So why is he so hard to resist? I decided on a closeted life a long time ago. It’s the only way to stay safe and successful. Could I bring myself to step out of the closet if it means having the true love of a family?

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

 

Forbidden Ink is the sixth book in the Get Ink'd series by Ali Lyda. It perfectly continues this fantastic series, but it's easily read as a standalone. 

There's a lot going on in this enemies to lovers story.

Milo and Eryk meet in an unusual way, as Milo has to bring his niece, Sofie, to meet her father, Eryk. To say that Milo hates Eryk for his reputation is an understatement. 

The enemies to lovers element definitely drives this story, as the two have so much animosity between them. Milo's jealous that Eryk is out and proud. Milo doesn't think Eryk's fit to be a father. And more.

There's custody issues, as well as attraction issues. And I love how it all develops. I adore seeing the small ways things start to change, and the ability to put the child first. 

Milo and Eryk are an interesting couple. Milo wasn't quite father material himself, but both men learn to put the child first. The chemistry between the men is too strong to ignore, and the men are certainly hot together. 

Of course, there's the elephant in the room that some readers won't be able to ignore. Cause yes, Milo is interested in the man who fathered his sister, Maya's baby. I know a lot of people who don't like someone sleeping with their sibling's ex. But, honestly, I barely felt that issue in this book. Eryk's night with her was just that. One hookup that meant nothing to him. They were never a couple. No feelings were ever involved. 

I do struggle with Milo's sister's decision to not tell Eryk that he's a father until she's on her deathbed. That is just something that always pisses me off. But, as this story isn't really about her, I can let that go. 

There's a large issue when it comes to Milo's feelings about Eryk's sexuality. His insecurities and jealousy over Eryk living openly while Milo is closeted and hiding is felt throughout. Milo's frustration and anger are well illustrated and this is a large part of his character. I appreciate where he's coming from and ultimately love the way it's all resolved. 

Forbidden Ink is a wonderful romance. Ali Lyda puts a lot of interesting issues into this story and I love it. Hell, I love anytime an actor feels forced into being closeted. Those are stories that just seem so realistic, so I definitely love that aspect. And the rest is just gravy on top!

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

A.E. Newsletter Signup: https://goo.gl/4hfuMh

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorAEVia

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Daddy Ink (Get Ink'd #1) by Ali Lyda

Amazon Link - Available in KU
Goodreads Link

He’s raising a baby, not looking for love …

I don’t want a serious relationship, and certainly not with the single dad next door. But one look at Gordo? I’m smitten. Even though I might be a tough looking tattoo artist, I know that the ink does a lot to hide my own insecurities. It doesn’t matter how much Gordo seems to like me - I can’t bring myself to make a move.

Talking has never come easy to me - and I mean that literally. But Gordo doesn’t seem fazed by my speech problems or the mess in my head, and soon we’re forming a deep connection. But I learned a long time ago that nothing lasts forever … and when a blast from Gordo’s past shows up, it proves that everything was too good to be true.

At least, that’s what the old me would say. This time, I know that Gordo and his little baby are worth fighting for. I’m willing to walk through fire to get what I want. But can a tattoo artist with a checkered past really be any guy’s happily ever after?

Daddy Ink is the first of the Get Ink’d m/m romance series. The Get Ink’d crew are misfits from all walks of life who come together to create amazing art. They’re a family born of love, loss, and ink. In this first in series, ambitious single dad Gordo has met his match in heavily inked Javi, and sparks are ready to fly.

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Daddy Ink, the first book in the Get Ink'd series, is a beautiful hurt/comfort and neighbor romance. I found myself sucked into the writing style from the start. 

Gordie's a single dad who's struggling with those early newborn days (and nights.) It doesn't help that his neighbor keeps throwing loud parties. 

Oh, Gordie and Javi's first meeting is awesome, definitely entertaining to the reader, but confusing to Gordie. What follows is a fun journey full of awkward times and attraction, fears and hesitation. And a whole lot of character growth!

Ends up his neighbor Javi isn't anything like Gordie is expecting. Javi's a tattoo artist who doesn't talk much because of a severe stutter. His entire life has been shaped by this speech impediment.  

I love these two complex men. Gordie's a man who has been burnt by his ex and is struggling to open his heart again. And then there's Javi. My heart instantly went out to the vulnerable Javi. He's been a victim of bullying,  he volunteers teaching ASL, and his backstory is horrible. But in the end, it's so beautiful how he naturally knows what to do with the baby and easily steps in to help the exhausted new dad. 

Yes, I fell hard for Gordie. And I guarantee you will too!

Written in alternating 1st person pov, the reader is fully brought into the characters' heads. Every doubt and fear, every moment of attraction and want, every single feeling is well developed. I couldn't put this book down.   

Daddy Ink is an complex, yet adorably sweet story with a sweet ending. Everything about this Ali Lyda book worked well for me and I look forward to seeing what the future books in this series are like.  

A Different Kind Of Chemistry (Nerds and Tattoos, #1) by Ashlynn Mills

Amazon Link - Available in KU
Goodreads Link

Casey's social life is much like his love life, non existant. He is constantly playing it safe and it is no longer working for him. After another date gone wrong, he finds himself stepping in a world completely foreign to him when walking into a small bar trying to drink his rejection away. Never did he think he would find something in that bar that would change his world forever, but his mind never stops thinking about that sexy tattooed stranger with the mesmerizing eyes. He tries to forget his heated moment with the stranger he will never see again, but Maverick keeps appearing in more places than just his dreams.

Maverick has rules for a reason and has been doing so well sticking with them until a nerdy science geek has him questioning everything. Maverick won't be the reason for destroying another person and everytime he looks at Casey, he is reminded more and more of his haunting past. This can only end in disaster because people like Maverick were never meant to fall in love with people like Casey, but like a moth to a flame, the adorable red head has him always coming back for more.

My Rating - 3.5 Stars!

A Different Kind of Chemistry is the first book in the Nerds and Tattoos series. This Ashlynn Mills book is really sweet.

Mav and Casey are complete opposites. One's a nerdy teacher, the other's a hot tattoo artist. 

Damn, these boys have some issues to deal with. Oh man, how I love Casey. His science shirts are fantastic. His virginal status fits him perfectly. And his awkwardness is well done. I love that he calls Maverick "hot tattoo guy." Just adorable. Mav isn't looking for a relationship, but can't resist the adorable red-headed Casey. Sort of. He wants him, but he just wants him for sex. Poor Maverick is so hardened after being hurt in the past, and it shows. 

I enjoy the differences in these men, especially as these never become an issue between the men at first. It's a story with some funny friends, some encouraging friends, and annoying ones as well. 

The writing style is good in general. But I wish there had been "more" though. The low angst is good, but it feels a little forced. Mav's back and force seemed a little too forced as well. I love the concept, I just feel it needed a little something to connect the reader to the men more. And everything seems resolved to quickly. I do adore the ending though.

A Different Kind of Chemistry is good when you're looking for a sweet, quick read. I definitely like it overall, and will be sure to check out the next book in the series.

REVIEW - Forgotten (Heaven and Hell Club #2) by Colette Davison

Book Title: Forgotten (Heaven and Hell Club Book 2)

Author: Colette Davison

Publisher: Independently published

Cover Artist: Colette Davison

Release Date: March 25, 2020

Genre/s: Contemporary M/M Romance

Trope/s: Hurt/comfort, disabled MC, small age-gap, one-night stand to lovers

Themes: Being true to yourself, trusting in others

Heat Rating: 3-4 flames

Length: 75 000 words

It is the second book in a series. 

It can be read as a standalone, but does work better if read after Broken.

Add on Goodreads

Buy Links – Available on Kindle Unlimited

Universal Link | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Can he build a future, when he’s forgotten his past?

Blurb

Jared has fought hard to achieve something close to ‘normal’. Needing to get away from his well-meaning but suffocating family, he follows a message he wrote on a scrap of paper to a new city, hoping to find a missing piece of his past.

When Kyrone, a cocky pole dancer at the Heaven and Hell Club, saunters into the tattoo parlour Jared works in, his life is turned upside down again. A passionate one night stand turns into something unexpected for both men. But life is never simple as they work out if they can have a future beyond what has been forgotten.

Forgotten is an MM romance with hurt/comfort, a small age gap, and two men who need to learn to be true to themselves. It is the second book in the Heaven and Hell Club series and, whilst it can be read as a standalone, works better if read after Broken.

Review 

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Colette Davison's Forgotten is a remarkable story that will stay with you long after the last words are read. Damn, seriously, this is one hell of a book! The story of Jared and Kyrone, you will be shocked by this gripping story.

Jared's a man with no memories. Suffering from amnesia, he has no connection to his past. If this man, and his determination to forge his own path in life, doesn't inspire you, I don't know what will. The way he rebuilds his life is impressive and absolutely amazing. And he does so all while suffering physically. It's hard to imagine experiencing everything Jared does, and reacting to it with such strength.

Kyrone's a man stuck living the life he promised to live, instead of the life he wants to live. His resolve to care for Jared, all while stuck on a path he doesn't want, is well explored. He's such a lovable character, fully grabbing onto my heart with is "adonis" tattoo. Ending up being so such more than the reader could have ever anticipated, I fell hard for this man. 

The writing is phenomenal, full of two fascinating and complex characters. The author excels in illustrating that not just memories are lost to amnesia, but also feelings, bonds, and connections. 

This book promises to take the reader on an emotional journey, full of highs and lows, smiles and tears. Through all the personal issues and family issues, this story has the reader emotionally connected throughout.

Forgotten is a fascinating and thought-provoking story. Colette Davison's Heaven and Hell Club series is an amazing series. But don't for one second think either book is an easy read. Both Forgotten, and book one, Broken, are seriously heart-wrenching and the connections between the books is staggering. 

Excerpt

“I tell you what,” Kyrone said. “I’ll jump into the shower and then nip to the corner shop to get us something more substantial and healthier for breakfast. You can take a shower while I’m gone. How does that sound?”

Jared glanced at the pile of their clothes on the floor. He didn’t much fancy putting on dirty, slept-in clothes straight after a shower.

“I need to put some laundry on,” Kyrone said. “So I’ll throw your clothes in too.”

“What am I meant to wear in the meantime?”

“Nothing?” Kyrone asked hopefully. “I don’t mind if you wander around my flat naked.”

Jared laughed and shook his head.

“I’ve got a top you can wear.” Kyrone pursed his lips. “I’m pretty sure my underwear and jeans will swamp you, though.”

“Probably,” Jared agreed.

Kyrone extricated himself from beneath Jared and moved to an oversized chest of drawers. He rummaged through the drawers for a couple of minutes, giving Jared an unobstructed view of the man’s lean back and taut arse. With a small cheer, Kyrone pulled out a huge round-neck jumper with wide stripes in two contrasting shades of grey. It looked too big for Kyrone, let alone Jared.

Kyrone threw it across to him. “That should cover you up.”

“It still feels like you’re trying to hold me hostage for the afternoon,” Jared said in a teasing tone. “I can’t exactly go home, wearing nothing but an oversized jumper.”

Kyrone knelt on the bed, leaning forward onto his hands, his face close to Jared’s. “Do you want to go home?” he asked in a soft, low tone that made Jared shiver.

“No.”

“Then I don’t see a problem, do you?”

About the Author 

Colette’s personal love story began at university, where she met her future husband. An evening of flirting, in the shadow of Lancaster castle, eventually led to a fairytale wedding. She’s enjoying her own ‘happy ever after’ in the north of England with her husband, two beautiful children and her writing.

Social Media Links

Blog/Website | Facebook Page | Facebook Group: Colette’s Cosy Corner

BookBub | Twitter | Goodreads | Instagram: @colettedavison

Mailing List | Newsletter Sign-Up

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RELEASE BLITZ & REVIEW - A Boyfriend for Christmas by Jay Northcote

Buy Links: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Universal Link

Cover Design: Garrett Leigh @ Black Jazz Design

Goodreads Link

Blurb

Archie's posh parents want him to meet a nice girl--how can he tell them he's fallen for a bad boy instead?

Closeted, innocent and lonely, Archie Arandale longs for someone special in his life. A Christmas party organised by his wealth management company is the last place he expects to meet the man of his dreams.

With his leather jacket, tattoos, and piercings, Cal Turner turns heads the moment he walks through the door. He definitely isn't looking for a boyfriend, but Archie's hesitant charm captures his attention, and sneaking off during the party to have a little fun can only make a dull evening more interesting.

After their reckless and thrilling encounter, Archie is keen for more experience and Cal is happy to oblige. The need for secrecy means this can only be a casual fling, yet as they spend time together in the run up to Christmas, their feelings become more intense than either of them had bargained for. How can Archie find the courage to tell his family about Cal, when Cal's the exact opposite of the 'nice girl' they've been hoping for?

Contains: A closeted virgin, a tattooed biker, class differences, a dramatic coming out, a very inappropriate Christmas gift, and a happy ending (of course).

Review 

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Once again, Jay Northcote delights his readers with A Boyfriend for Christmas.

This is a story of a hot hookup at a Christmas party that suddenly leads to more. Omg, it's full of fabulous first times, sneaking around, and some tough decisions.

Archie's a closeted rich man, who's parents have high expectation for him.
He's a man stuck in a boring rut that his family set up for  him. But always having been attracted to bad boys, he can't resist the tattooed Cal.

I love the contrast between who Archie is and who he wants to be. The makeup, the, the clothes, everything. The real Archie is fantastic, if he can just be set free.

Their story includes a homophobic family which brings out all the emotions. There is so much more to this tale than just an opposites attract vibe. There's tension, chemistry, and some angst. 

And, wow, I love Archie  and Fiona as friends. 

Overall, A Boyfriend for Christmas is a great Christmas romance. It's a wonderful story of setting oneself free and claiming their life as their own. Jay Northcote gifts the reader with lovable characters, a delightful storyline, and some good side characters. This is definitely a new favorite of mine from Jay.

Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.

One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.

Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. He self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press.

Website: https://jaynorthcote.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jay_Northcote

Facebook profile: https://www.facebook.com/jaynorthcotewriter

Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/jaynorthcotefiction

Facebook author group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/jaysplayground

Newsletter: http://tinyurl.com/JN-readers

Jay’s books: http://author.to/JayNorthcote

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