Review: Beauty and His Beast by Bey Deckard

Novella (~38,000 words)
Genre(s): Fairy tale, science fiction, xenophilia, magic penis, love story, LGBTQ+

They call him Marrex the Monster.

Deformed and wretched, Captain Marrex roams the black of space with only a pair of eccentric AIs for company. The curse in his DNA means a long, bitterly lonely life for the Ghelyxian, and it’s a fate Marrex knows he can’t change.

After a long sleep in stasis, Juniper Bo wakes to discover he’s an unwelcome guest aboard Captain Marrex’s ship. Though he tries to stay away from the surly Ghelyxian, he just doesn’t get why the curse is such a big deal—then again, Juniper knows his tastes are rather… unusual for a Human.

When friendship blooms between Marrex and Juniper, they realize they face a future that neither could have predicted in their wildest dreams.

Light Bey Deckard, y'all! If his darker work scares you, this is a title that you can try.

This was light and sweet and just a bit snarky. Fun time to be had here!

Beauty and His Beast is an adaption of the famous fairy tale told in SPAAAAAAAAAAACE! And did you read the tags? The tags are everything because:

That's right, boys and girls....MAGIC. PENIS. Before you start thinking about all of the fun possibilities... let's chat about the stars of the story, hm?

Not the penis (though it definitely made my top mental list of fave magic penii). I'm talking about Marrex and Juniper Bo! Beauty in this case is a human names Juniper Bo. He's been in stasis for seventeen years and is awakened by 2 mischievous AIs, S1N and VAL. Okay really one is more the leader and the other follows. But thanks to their interference, Beauty aka Juniper was freed. Time has passed for the 22 year old and he doesn't know what Marrex's lonely ship found him. But he's grateful.

Marrex is an alien that resembles a demon in a way (red fur, four horns, fangs +> You know I was ALL over that). He is a disfigured due to a curse from puberty and banished from his home planet. He works on a space ship by himself and has his AIs for company. Finding the human scarred the loner and puts him out of his element. Being as Marrex takes his nickname 'Marrex the Monster' to heart, he acts like one in the beginning. It takes time and Juniper's charm to finally thaw the Beast.

This story has low angst. Marrex seems grumpy at first, but inside he's sweet. He's never had anyone to cal his own and he can't believe anyone would look at him favorably especially someone as beautiful as Juniper. There are so many variations of this theme and I really liked what the author did with it. There was enough time to get to know the main characters as they got more familiar with the other. And the AIs brought snark relief.

The conflict was good. I was curious about Juniper's family and wanted to really delve into why they were that way. His sisters got under my skin. The ending and epilogue were great but I wanted more resolution with the sisters. And maybe how the family aspect got to be that way as easily.

The sex was hot. Duh, magic penis.

LOL no seriously magic penis was le awesome. Marrex's anatomy was different. You'll need to read to see what it does. (Hint: O-mazing) It wasn't sex heavy, keeping with the lighter fun theme. But each sex scene was meaningful.

All in all a sweet, romantic story between an alien and his human.

Let's hear it one more time for magic penis.

Yeah, that's the stuff!

Group Review: Desperately Seeking Santa by Eli Easton

Journalism student Gabe Martin gets his first professional assignment—to write about a Christmas charity dinner that benefits a children’s home. It sounds like a total snooze-fest until Gabe learns that the event’s Santa is a mystery man. He shows up in costume and no one has a clue who he is. Uncovering Santa’s identity sounds like the perfect angle to turn a fluff piece into serious journalism.

Mack “The Mountain” McDonall, at 6’10”, is University of Wisconsin-Madison’s enormous star wrestler. When Gabe first claps eyes on him at a wrestling match, it’s lust at first sight. Gabe’s friend, Jordan, sets up the pair on a date. But when Gabe chatters on about his plans for outing Santa, Mack goes cold, and their first meeting becomes an epic fail.

As Gabe researches the children’s home, he learns that Mack has secrets a guy famous for being a brute wouldn’t want the world to know. Can Gabe find his holiday spirit, write a killer article, win the heart of a surly giant, and give everyone a very merry Christmas?

NOTE: This 50,000 word short novel features a new couple but includes Jordan and Owen, from the author’s book “Superhero”. It can be read as a stand-alone.

Averaged

Lost in a Book - 3.5 Hearts

Want a feel good, low drama holiday read? This fits the bill with its fluffy, low angst, and likable characters. I liked it, but it didn’t blow my elf socks off like Easton typically does. While many readers may want a feel good, easy peasy holiday romance, I’m all gimme my angst, kindle combusting steam and then seal it with sweetness. *shrug*

Gabe Martin, college senior and aspiring journalist has been assigned to cover the annual Elks Christmas Charity dinner that benefits St. Mark’s Children’s Home. After some research, Gabe decides to turn his story from puff piece to an investigative article on revealing the Santa that has a hidden identity yet brings much joy to the children at this dinner.

Now, I sure do hope you have read Superhero by Easton because it’s awesome and we're treated to Owen and Jordan being secondary characters in this story. Jordan invites Gabe to Owen’s wrestling match and he begrudgingly accepts. Apparently the idea of skin tight singlets on fit wrestlers wasn’t that appealing... until he sees Mack “The Mountain” McDonall.

Mack is a 285lb wrestler that’s straight muscle and stirs up an urgent need to learn all about “mountain climbing.” Gotta watch out for that high altitude and proper hand holds/placement. Maybe throw a carabiner in, too. *bites fist*

“That’s not a man, that’s a zip code.”

Yassssss… tell me more.

I was giddy with anticipation for Mack and his ability to pick up huge men off the ground. I was already dreaming about the *ahem* possibilities of someone that big and strong connecting with another man. Except, Mack wasn’t his wrestling persona. Don’t worry, I dig gentle giants too. He was shy, quiet, reserved, smart, and kept his head down to get through school and move on to the next stage. He wasn’t dealt the best hand at life but he is doing his part to make a difference.

Gabe and Mack are officially introduced when Jordan attempts to set them up. It’s all going swell until Mack retreats at Gabe’s mention of investigating Santa’s identity and using it for his article. The night ends quickly but it doesn’t stop Gabe from tracking Mack down. They form a tentative friendship and it slowwwwwly progresses. It grows as much as it can when both men are still tentative and hesitant to take it further. Much of the story shows their developing friendship with some real UST thrown in. An actual relationship doesn’t happen until the last 20% of the book which brought out my *disappointed face*. Gabe and Mack were opposites but likable characters and while I appreciated the foundation they built leading up to that moment when it all changes, I wanted more. More relational connection. More assertive in their wants. More of them together as they transitioned to boyfriends. And yes, I’ll say it, more heat.

One little oddity for me was the integration of Spanish. I’ll warn you that I took Spanish in high school for a few years and only came away with saying “No, I don’t have gum in my mouth” and “can I go to the bathroom.” Clearly, I’m not the expert on it and definitely wasn’t a model student either. However, Gabe embraced his Spanish side but stated that he wasn’t a proficient speaker due to his father not allowing it. Yet, there were many times throughout where Spanish words were thrown in. I have seen this in a few other books but it didn’t seem as forced as it did in this one. Mi Mama, dios, joder, etc., were all thrown in randomly and pulled me out each time. Again, not an expert on language integration and I look forward to some of my fellow reader's thoughts on the authentic-ness of the placements.

All in all, this was a sugary sweet, low angst, holiday read with a HEA. If that’s what you’re looking for, I’d recommend it.

Adam - 4.25 Hearts

It’s Jizmass season!

And as always, Eli Easton delivers on the holiday cheer and romance.

Journalism student Gabe Martin decides to liven up his first assignment by exposing the secret Santa of a local Christmas charity dinner. He thinks it’s a great idea, but it puts him directly at odds with his crush.

Mack “The Mountain” McDonall is the university’s star wrestler. He keeps his sexuality under wraps, but he’s definitely interested in Gabe.

I thoroughly enjoyed Eli Easton’s young adult novella Superhero, so I was instantly excited when I learned that Jordan and Owen would be making a guest appearance. I loved seeing the two happy and still head over heels for each other!

When Gabe first spots Mack in his wrestling singlet, it’s lust at first sight. Jordan decides to play cupid and set the two up on a blind date.

It goes downhill pretty quickly.

I got where Gabe was coming from, wanting to make a mark as an up-and-coming journalist. But his plan to reveal the secret identity of a charity Santa would probably earn him coal for Christmas. So yeah, it wasn’t the best idea.

I could have done with less of Mack’s hot and cold routine, but I understood why he reacted the way he did. It’s obvious to readers from the get-go who the secret Santa actually is.

What isn’t obvious is exactly why Mack was keeping things so hidden. As Mack’s story is revealed bit by bit, my heart hurt for him. It didn’t take me long to fall for this gentle giant!

Plus, I loved Gabe and Mack’s dynamic. While Mack might not be happy with Gabe’s plan, he can’t deny how much he likes Gabe. And Gabe, on the other hand, only wants to make things work between them.

Gabe gradually wins Mack over with a number of cute gestures. And very slowly, Mack opens up and let’s Gabe in under his walls.

The romance was very cute and sweet. Their relationship builds bit by bit, and I really enjoyed the mellow feel to the story. There’s little angst here, but lots of laughs and cutesy feels.

The epilogue had me grinning with every sentence!

Overall, I really enjoyed ‘Desperately Seeking Santa.’ If you’re looking for a low-angst and easy-to-read holiday romance, I’d definitely recommend this book!

Chelsea - 4.5 Hearts

That was a big pile of Christmas fluff right there! Eli Easton's Christmas stories are always such a delight. This one was particularly sweet, I mean it had orphans…. and wrestlers!!!!

Gabe is an outgoing senior journalism student and is working on his first story for the local paper and is dying to make it something spectacular. Then he sees Mack, the 285 pound wrestler and develops something of a huge crush. Mack is completely opposite to Gabe, he keeps to himself and is slow to trust people.

These two are completely adorable and they have wonderful chemistry. They have a fairly shaky start but I felt both Gabe and Mack worked it out maturely and quickly then become so freakin cute.

The sex scene was hot for a YA novel although relatively unrealistic with Gabe taking Mack's 'proportionate’ dick so easily the first time. But what is Christmas all about if not a easy hard fuck with a massive dick and not much prep? Merry Jizzmas everybody!

In all seriousness this book was packed with the feels. I loved Mack's gentle nature and Gabe's understanding and loyalty. We get to see these two develop who they are to each other and individually. Totally adorable!

Like always Eli Easton just made me want more of her characters and more of their story. This will definitely be a Christmas reread next year.

A wonderful Christmas story.

Review: Getting His Man (Getting His Man #1) by B.G. Thomas

A love story worthy of an old movie… with a new twist.

Artie needs a hero, a man like those he’s always revered in Golden Age films. His drug-dealing jerk of a roommate got him arrested, and since his savior isn’t likely to sweep in and save the day, Artie calls a bail bondsman.

August has always imagined himself a hero from a black-and-white movie, but he’s never found a man willing to let him play that role—at least not until he gets the call from Artie.

Both of their dreams might come true, but not before August must use his skills as a bounty hunter as well as a bondsman. Artie is on the run for his life, and August must protect him and help him clear his name. Only then can they both finally get their man.

Oh my goodness, I loved this.

This book is full of old Hollywood movie goodness and read exactly like the movies I used to watch over and over again with my dad. If you love old movies where the rough and tough guy falls for the slip of a girl, you are going to love August and Artie.

Like something out of the old black-and-white romantic movies he liked to watch with his mother. It was romantic is what it was. Marvelously, wonderfully romantic.

When Arthur Bailey innocently eats a medicinal brownie from his pothead dealing roommate Willie, things go bad. Artie gets arrested and charged with something he didn’t do and needs to get bailed out of jail. The bail money will wipe him out of every penny he’s saved to move into his own place to escape the speed metal and cloud of marijuana floating in his shared apartment but what’s a guy to do?

When August is sent to bail Artie out, he gets more than just a case file. From the first look at Artie, August is lost in those big doe like eyes and feels the pull to protect this young man. When August realizes how stoned Artie still is from the brownies, he takes it upon himself to be the one to get Artie through this, no matter what.

Quick note: Now I say young but really August and Artie have less than 10yr age span between them, so young is used really in regards to how Artie looks because while he’s 24, he looks barely legal.

Anyway.

Told from the Dual POV of our leading men, we get to know them through their actions and inner dialogue. Both men have a strong love for classic romantic movies and leading men who are exactly their type. On first site, Artie fits August physically and emotionally. All August wants is a man to love and to take care of. To be that light and strength his man can depend on and protect his lover even if that means taking a bullet for him. August wants to be someone’s hero in every way. Artie wants the strong leading man to swing him around the dance floor while dancing his way into his heart. He wants the most romantic scenario to happen in his life.

I watched those old movies with my mom and my sister while I was growing up, and they shaped what I want in love. I want the stars. I want a happy ending.

August Sterling… I mean. That name alone is swoon worthy and August has that classic old school Golden Age of Hollywood Leading man vibe to him. Regardless of the character he could be playing, August has being a gentleman down to finest detail and the way he feels about Artie from the first look made me grin and I never stopped smiling. This book follows the formula of the classic romance movies so perfectly that I could see this translated to film. It helps to have all the movies the men like mentioned in the story along with the leading men they admired. If you haven’t seen any of the ones highlighted in the book, do yourself a favor and check a few out. You won’t be disappointed.

Now Artie, and surely he was an Artie. Never an Arthur, is downright adorable. Gosh, I love that he is doing everything he can to be an independent man but being so trusting, he trusted the wrong person and now has been arrested and has to go to court. When August comes to his rescue, it’s like all of Artie’s romantic movie wants have come true because August is Sam Spade, James Bond and Fred Astaire all rolled into one charming package from is dark hair to his sexy feet.

The way Artie sees August is the quintessential romantic hero with all the suave and debonair moves that come naturally to August and sweep Artie off his feet. I can say my feet felt a bit floaty as well while reading because August is swoony.

I love the old school Hollywood vibe of this book! I keep saying that because the story bleeds the essence of those movies. The big strong man of the "law" rescuing the innocent but gorgeous girl, *ahem* boy, in need and falling for them. Yup totally up my ginger alley.

Where was I with this? Goodness I got lost in my own head.

So, August wants to take care of Artie and Artie wants August to take care of him but they play this slow burn slow dance and try to keep things professional between them. But when the bad guys with the drugs and Artie’s roommate start tossing around threats, Artie takes it upon himself to be the martyr of his happiness and do what he thinks is right. He just forgot one small thing, August isn’t just a bail bondsman, he’s a bounty hunter and he knows how to track and find what he wants.

[...]Bailing people out? That’s just a few hours of my week. Getting my man is what I live for.

Oh boy. This got all up in your face hero/rescue/sexy times that had me blushing at my desk while I read. What August does to Artie, what August teaches Artie and what he asks of Artie was so sensual I think I almost melted right off my chair. I loved how every time Artie questioned himself or tried to do what he thought was right, August had to get his man and show him… everything.

Wow. Rambling Red needs to wrap this up, ya think?

This was another winner in the Dreasmspun Desires series. Artie and August stole my heart as they formed a bond over their shared interests, over protecting each other and as they fell in love and got everything the movies they watched promised. Their own Happily Ever After.

An ARC was provided.

Tag Team Review: The Gryphon King's Consort by Jenn Burke

Love takes flight.

The sudden death of the Gryphon King throws the kingdom of Mythos into uncertainty, and Crown Prince Luca rushes both his coronation and an arranged marriage to a man he’s never met. Eirian is young and idealistic, and while they both want what’s best for their people, their philosophies couldn’t be more different. While Luca believes in honoring tradition, Eirian is determined to infuse modern values into their kingdom of magical creatures. When given the choice between loyalty to his husband and his own crusade, Eirian makes a decision that might doom their marriage.

Still, Luca is committed to making their union work, and that means forgiving his brash consort. But when Eirian becomes the target of a deadly conspiracy, Luca must act fast—or forever lose the chance to explore their burgeoning love.

R *A Reader Obsessed* - 3.5 Hearts

I admit that the setting and premise of this story was something that really appealed to me. To say the least, this had some extensive and different world building incorporating the enigmatic gryphon (half eagle, half lion), and I found it quite fascinating.


This is set in the present day where mythical creatures, including but not limited to dragons, spirits, minotaurs, etc., live in overall harmony with humans, where there’s a fine line between maintaining peace and allaying fears. Because of this, the mythos population is sharply divided into traditional and modern factions, differing on how to ensure their safety and way of life - the former wanting to remain separate, the latter seeing the benefits of integrating their kind more with humanity.


Traditionalist Prince Luca unfortunately finds himself suddenly king due to an untimely accident. He’s hastily forced into marriage with the best candidate out there, but instead of a lengthy courtship, he must marry Eirian basically sight unseen to keep the kingdom’s turmoil at a minimum. To appease the masses, he and his advisors know that it would be wise to marry a modernist to keep the balance, and that’s where this story’s conflict arises - bridging the vastly different philosophies between Luca and Eirian, two mated strangers who feel the pull of their magical bond but are also trying to maintain/change a governance that they feel is right for their people’s future.


Sooo, some might not like that the discord here is based on more esoteric matters, though be reassured we do get bit of action and suspense as things progress since not everyone agrees with Luca and Eirian’s union. Intermixed throughout, there’s many an argument as they both try to exert who has the more logical reasoning in their rapidly changing times. This got a bit tedious at times since both are very stubborn in their beliefs, each not willing to compromise much at all. Having said that, I really did enjoy Luca and Erian’s attraction to each other, their burgeoning feelings despite their differences, making the possessive pull and sexy times very nice. This wasn’t perfect but it was different, and I appreciated that. I certainly wouldn't say no should Burke continue with more stories from this world.

Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Sara - 4.5 Hearts

My first book from this author and my first book with a Gryphon in it could not have gone better. I loved the heck out of this book and fell hard for Luca and Eirian.

I loved a good arranged marriage story and this was done well. Now, this isn’t a forced marriage story where we are going to have our couple at odds. But it is an arranged one and both parties knew the day would come when they would be wed, they just weren’t expecting it to happen so soon.

Told from the dual POV’s of Luca and Eirian, we meet Eirian as he is on a flight to meet his soon to be husband after the King has died in a freak accident. Eirian has known about Crown Prince Luca, but has yet to meet the man himself face to face but that is all about to change.

I like that we get a bit of world building with Eirian reading an interview with People Magazine and Luca about who he would like to marry. It gives us insight to not only the political views that Luca has but it also gives us a brief history on the Gryphons as a shifter society and how they have come to be known by humans. It lets us know they are trying to live among and with humans as well. While Luca is a traditionalist his intended Consort is very much a modernist and that folks is where these two will struggle.

People: What kind of gryphon would be your perfect match?
Prince Luca: One who shares my belief that royalty serves the people, not the other way around.

From the first meeting of Luca and Eirian the chemistry is felt and I loved that both men were wanting of the other but were holding off until marriage. Thank goodness the wedding was only a day away. The wedding eve chase between them was charming and sexy with the UST going on already. The whole wedding deal with Luca becoming King AND getting married was pretty damn intense while being beautifully fantastical. What was totally sexy was what happens after they are wed and Luca can’t quite control himself. Uh huh.

The lore of the Gryphons in this had me hooked immediately: the way it’s explained how they exist and how they allowed humans to know of their existence was engaging. I really loved that a male Crown Prince marrying another male wasn’t fussed over. You see, with the male to female ratio being so uneven with Gryphons, the shifters are pansexual and homoromantic, choosing to pair with the same sex, yet they do have the opportunity once a year to procreate to secure their lineage and species. It was interesting to learn of how cold the entire race of Gryphons seems to be with their historic value system and yet they also form platonic bonds with one another that is anything but cold. Also…um… the bond that Luca and Eirian share is hot as hell and so freaking sexy with the claiming and biting and… where was I? Oh, Yeah. It was exciting to get the history but to also know this marriage between Luca and Eirian and the bond they share has the potential to shake a few tail feathers in the face of frigid tradition. You know?

So. Yeah. Gryphons are amazing with what they can shift into. I have no clue if it’s the norm with them but the different forms they can take other than the lion or the full Gryphon was so freaking cool and come on, what Luca shifts into when he spies on Eirian in the kitchen is so damn cute! But really, I dug their many different forms and even how a certain sound came from Luca at a certain time that folks hadn’t seen/heard before… *whistles* These two are so good together and will become so strong in every way and really serve their people – the mythos – and allow them to thrive.

He and Luca would learn to work together. They each had the best interests of their people in mind, Eirian had no doubt. There might be some rockiness as they worked out their differences, but they could do it. He and Luca would be partners— perhaps friends, over time. There were worse fates.

The political views of Luca and Eirian really add to the story and give the characters depth. It makes sense with his age and how he has lived the last 100+ years of his life as a close friend of the late King Arran and becoming the Crown Prince that Luca would be a traditionalist. With Eirian living outside of the royal world and having the opportunity to not be held down by it makes sense that he would latch on to a modern way of living as a Gryphon amongst humans and want to build a stronger camaraderie between them. It also makes sense that the two opinions would collide but it gives opportunity for them to see the other’s point of view as their husband where they maybe wouldn’t of a member of the masses. Yeah. Everyone should matter but… this is romance where the one you lust and love makes you pause and really look at the situation. So, we’ll go with that.

Boy oh boy do I have a lot of notes to go over but I won’t drag this review out.

I loved this book. Arranged marriages are a favorite of mine and with the added opposites attract trope tossed in made for a truly enjoyable read. This is part of the Dreamspun line so the conflict is light though essential, the angst is bearable if not mildly frustrating and the sex is good folks. Good.

For me, this read as a start of series with so much that can be built on with the world and with our newly married King and his Consort. I wouldn’t mind seeing more of them at all.

Don't miss The Gryphon King's Consort blog tour + giveaway HERE

Guest Review: Undercover by Lily Harlem

When two alpha males collide, sparks will fly.

Samuel’s job is to scrutinize the store’s customers and make sure everyone stays on the right side of the law. One sexy guy in particular has him not only hot under the collar, but filling his dreams and starring in his wildest fantasies. Yet, he can’t pluck up the courage to spark a conversation and find out if those lingering looks mean what he thinks they do.

Until, that is, a misdemeanor occurs giving him the chance to haul hot bloke into his office. The only trouble is, Samuel soon realizes he’s bitten off more than he can chew. This man isn’t going to take a reprimand lying down, no matter how much attraction is fizzing between them.

There’s only one thing for it and that’s to allow the heat between them to reach combustion point—even if it means switching, pushing boundaries and bending the rules. Undercover or not, burning desire and scorching lust can’t be ignored.

Publisher's Note: This book was previously released as part of the Right Here, Right Now anthology with Pride Publishing.

3.25 Hearts

Reviewer: NeRdyWYRM

Oh-Bee Kay-Bee

What to say? What to say? Alright. Here it is. Jettison any expectations you have for this title. Suspend all disbelief. If you have a lazy eye or an astigmatism, put an eye patch on because the eyerolling is kind of epic. E-pic. As crazy as it sounds, it was still pretty damned entertaining.

I had to forget about looking at this title as a romance short and had to instead view it through my erotica glasses. That helped immensely. There is, after all, a Very Big Difference between the two. Without that little adjustment to my perspective, the Paul Blart rent-a-cop wanna-be MC was just Too Damn Much. I mean ... flexing your ass muscles? Really? A GRAPE?! Really?!

That said, for what was basically, in my humble opinion, PWP, it wasn't bad. Like I mentioned earlier, you have to suspend disbelief a little because there were just some serious yeah-the-fuck-right moments (at least for me). But it didn't stop this short from being a fun little romp even if it was more than a little OTT and flimsy in terms of plot.

It was a whole lot of hilariously entertaining to watch/read this ridiculously macho, highly egotistical poseur slightly reminiscent (in a real-life kind of way) of Ryan Foxheart's character—from TJ Klune's stellar Tales of Verania series—fold like a house of cards. Hell, I think that was half the fun. I wanted to take the guy down a few pegs. Kind of like this:

Mm-hmm. Our other very put together MC knew just what he needed to do to take the hot air out of this vainglorious security guard who sort of drove me a little nuts. Now, without giving too much away ... it is a short story after all ... what was also cool about this little nugget was the fact that despite some of it's more obviously lesser charms, you could see that these two MCs actually could have some long-term potential if they were given the chance to shine in a full-length story. It would take a little bit of an overhaul of how at least one of the characters was portrayed because, I mean, come on! But still ... I could totally see it.

I think a successful short is one that has potential to translate to a more involved story. This one fits that criteria even though there are only so many good things I can say about it since it is severely limited by what it actually is.

So, if you want to be blown away by something unforgettably fantastic, this is probably not going to fit that mold. If you want something short, mindless, hot, and fun to pass a little time with, go for it.

More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.

Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.

An ARC copy of this title was provided for an honest review.

Giveaway + Blog Tour: The Gryphon King's Consort by Jenn Burke

Jenn Burke is here today with an excerpt from her new Dreamspun Beyond Cracky Fluff, The Gryphon King's Consort (see our tag team review HERE) & she's offering up $25 in DSP store credits to TWO lucky people! Good luck!

Excerpt from The Gryphon King’s Consort

Thanks so much to Boy Meets Boy for having me today! I thought I’d share an excerpt from The Gryphon King’s Consort that takes place right after Luca’s coronation and his subsequent marriage to Eirian. It’s just a little spicy. Hope you enjoy!

---

“Shh.” Luca leaned in, and his nose brushed Eirian’s cheek as he inhaled deeply. “You smell so good.”

“Do I?”

“Mmm-hmm.”

The subtle vibration of Luca’s hum tickled Eirian’s skin and brought a moan to his lips. He closed his eyes and willingly tumbled into the dark abyss of delicious tension that pinged between their bodies. Beneath the ornate robe, he grew hard with want. He couldn’t tell if Luca was as well—damn their formal clothing—but the way Luca subtly rotated his hips, and then not so subtly, suggested he was.

“You didn’t want me last night,” Eirian reminded him breathlessly.

“You weren’t mine last night.”

“You don’t own me.”

Luca hummed again. “And yet you’re mine nonetheless.”

Oh Hades, whatever. Eirian couldn’t string together a suitable or coherent argument at the moment—but they would revisit it.

“I hadn’t—” Eirian gasped as Luca’s movements rubbed against his erection. So good and yet not enough. “I hadn’t expected—”

“You thought this would be business only,” Luca murmured in his ear and followed the word with a lick that sent electricity shooting through Eirian’s limbs.

“Yes… but after last night, I thought maybe not.”

“I’ve never been interested in a consort in title only,” Luca said, his voice low. He continued to speak, punctuating each sentence with a kiss to Eirian’s neck. “I want a full partner. Someone to stand beside me as I rule—as we rule—but also someone to share my bed, my body, my life.”

Eirian let his head fall back against the door. His thoughts scattered as Luca nipped gently at his neck. With effort he herded them into some sort of order. “We probably should have discussed this last night instead of playing chase.”

“I hinted.”

That surprised a soft chuckle out of Eirian. “Hints are not enough.”

“Shall we make that our third rule?”

“What about rules one and two?”

“First tell me what you want from this. From us.” Luca drew back to look into Eirian’s eyes as though he were ready to judge the truthfulness of Eirian’s response.

“I… had hoped we could be friends.” Eirian had worried that hope would not be fulfilled, particularly after their disastrous first meeting. The quiet time in the solar seemed to have mended some of that unfortunate initial impression—or so Eirian hoped—and then there was the game they’d enjoyed, and the teasing after. So… perhaps?

Luca’s lips curved in an encouraging smile. “I would like that.”

“I don’t expect that it will happen tonight or next week or even next year, but eventually….”

“Eventually,” Luca agreed. “And sharing my bed?”

“Yes,” Eirian answered too quickly. He reached up to fiddle with his glasses as his cheeks burned with embarrassment. “I mean… I would be amenable.”

“Is that what you were last night? Amenable?” Luca smirked.

“No….” Eirian drew out the word. “I think perhaps a better description would be eager. Or overeager. Needy, even.”

Luca threw his head back and laughed. The sound did wonderful things to Eirian’s stomach. “Well, in that case, I think for rule one….” He shifted and turned his attention to the other side of Eirian’s neck. “That’s obvious. We must both sleep naked.”

It was Eirian’s turn to laugh. Something warm spread through his chest, intensifying his physical need for Luca. At the same time, strangely, the sensation calmed his need and made it less panicked. He never dreamed Luca would have such an engaging sense of humor. “An obvious rule for a king and his consort. I agree,” he said, still smiling. “And rule two?”

“You should supply that one.”

Eirian regarded Luca. He wanted to keep the lighthearted tone of their conversation, but he also wanted to illustrate that what Luca had said—what he wanted—truly resonated with Eirian.

“Touches,” Eirian said. “Rule two is that we’re allowed to touch each other whenever we like. A kiss on the cheek, a hug—”

“Groping?”

Eirian snorted. “In private, yes, please.”

“I acquiesce to your rule,” Luca said with a sly smile.

“Then touch me, my king.”

The Gryphon King’s Consort

Love takes flight.

The sudden death of the Gryphon King throws the kingdom of Mythos into uncertainty, and Crown Prince Luca rushes both his coronation and an arranged marriage to a man he’s never met. Eirian is young and idealistic, and while they both want what’s best for their people, their philosophies couldn’t be more different. While Luca believes in honoring tradition, Eirian is determined to infuse modern values into their kingdom of magical creatures. When given the choice between loyalty to his husband and his own crusade, Eirian makes a decision that might doom their marriage.

Still, Luca is committed to making their union work, and that means forgiving his brash consort. But when Eirian becomes the target of a deadly conspiracy, Luca must act fast—or forever lose the chance to explore their burgeoning love.

Buy links:

Dreamspinner Press

Amazon US

Amazon Canada

Amazon UK

Barnes & Noble

Kobo

Jenn Burke

Jenn Burke has loved out-of-this-world romance since she first read about heroes and heroines kicking butt and falling in love as a preteen. Now that she’s an author, she couldn’t be happier to bring adventure, romance, and sexy times to her readers.

Jenn is the author of The Gryphon King’s Consort from Dreamspinner Press and the co-author of the critically acclaimed Chaos Station science fiction romance series (with Kelly Jensen) from Carina Press. She’s also the author of Her Sexy Sentinel, a paranormal romance from Entangled Publishing.

She’s been called a pocket-sized and puntastic Canadian on social media, and she’ll happily own that label. Jenn lives just outside of Ottawa, Ontario, with her husband and two kids, plus two dogs named after video game characters…because her geekiness knows no bounds.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Thank you so much for joining me on The Gryphon King’s Consort blog tour. Enter for your chance to win one of two $25 store credits for Dreamspinner Press!

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Series Review: The Castle of Count Shagula & The Madness of Doctor Wankenstein (Tales of Monstererotica #1-2) by Justin MacCormack

A tale of warped sexual desires, twisted comedy and frantic naughtiness. Come, travel with the young Jonathan Woodcock to the distant realms of Transylvania, where he encounters a sinister vampire, the aristocratic Count Shagula, last in a long line of great shaggers.

Witness as poor Jonathan experiences the terrors and horrors that go bang in the night, and finds out just what mysteries lurk at the heart of THE CASTLE OF COUNT SHAGULA (hint, it's sex. Lots of sex)

TALES OF MONSTEROTICA
A new line of comical erotic romps featuring the classic and not-so-classic monsters of book, stage and screen, written by J. D. MacCormack, author of "Diary of a Gay Teenage Zombie"

When young Jonathan Woodcock escaped the evil Count Shagula, he hoped that his days of sexual bondage would be over. Not so fast, Mister Woodcock!

Meet Doctor Wankenstein, the greatest scientist of the age! In this tale of warped sexual desires, twisted comedy, and frantic naughtiness, poor Jonathan experiences the sinister experiments of the doctor. Witness his ultimate plans for Jonathan, and discover just what gets the muscle-bound hunk of a monster up in the morning, in THE MADNESS OF DOCTOR WANKENSTEIN.

(Hint, it’s a really big wang. Huge, really huge!)

*slow blink*

I just...

How does one describe the visuals that were provided in detail and will forever be burned in my brain? I mean, seriously... a Count vampire that drinks jizz instead of blood? Shadow tentacles that fuck unsuspecting quests? A gigantic penis that waddles on its testicles? That’s just a tiny sampling of the “frantic naughtiness” we are treated to in the Tales of Monstererotica series.

If you’re looking for a well developed romance with fully fleshed characters, MC growth, and an answer to life’s many questions, you’re in the wrong place. But, if you can suspend reality and hop on board the WTF-monster-porn-train for a warped, OTT reading experience, this may be your cuppa.

Book 1: The Castle of Count Shagula
Jonathan Woodcock is on a business trip to Transylvania when he meets Count Shagula and the many “servants” that live in his castle. He realizes very quickly that not all is as it appears and must find a way to escape the cum-thirsty Count who has a "wang" obsession. An escape plot doesn’t come to fruition until Jonathan is fully *ahem* serviced by a plethora of holes, appendages, tentacles, etc. Jonathan is overcome by lust while still equally determined to find an escape. He gets creative in his fleeing methods and goes out with a bang.

Book 2: The Madness of Dr. Wankenstein
Poor, poor Jonathan Woodcock. He’s trying so hard to recover from his time with Count Shagula and make his way closer to home in England. Unfortunately he needs money and takes an assistant position with the mad Doctor Wankenstein. Dr. W is on a never ending quest to develop the next large huge gigantic pleasure inducing appendage and will stop at nothing to get it. Once again, Jonathan has to figure out how to escape while still taking one for the team... errr, the giving and receiving team, that is.

Both books served their purpose of being crazed AND comedic. I enjoyed the first book slightly more than the second which had to do with the creativity of the endings. There aren’t any characters to fall in love with but these are short little reads that had me scratching my head, squirming as I processed the detailed descriptions, and wondering what Jonathan was going to experience next.

This series is absolutely ridiculous, disturbing, and driven by an obsession of lust and giant wangs. It’s also creative in its debauchery and I enjoyed this crazy ass escape from reality. Recommended.

Oh yeah...

That loud popping noise you heard was my monster porn cherry being obliterated by tentacles, waddling penes, and jizz nourished vampires that can suck better than my Dyson.

Guest Review: RIDE by Nellie Christine

Bentley Williams never thought he’d hit rock bottom at 19-years-old. From top-rated college running back to homeless, girlfriend-less, UCLA dropout, Bentley can’t help but wonder if he’s making the right decision. Pursuing a career as a BMX rider likely means a life of struggling to afford groceries, but he can’t imagine doing anything else. The sport’s in his blood. After a visit to his uncle’s shop involves him flirting with the green-eyed new guy instead of looking for a new bike, Bentley ends up questioning himself even more.

Kit Edwards was used to being treated like a leper in his small hometown of Junction, Ohio. After foolishly getting involved with the closeted high school quarterback, he decides to move as far away for school as possible. UCLA is perfect – the weather is beautiful, his roommate isn’t crazy, and people couldn’t care less about his orientation.

People care so little that Kit finds himself in a flirting match with the unfairly attractive guy that wanders into the bike shop where he works. But, Kit refuses to go down that road again. Popular athletes were a no, and straight guys were a definite no. Bentley doesn’t seem interested in going away, and as a friendship forms, Kit promises himself he won’t make the same mistake twice.

Right?

Reviewer: NeRdyWYRM

Sexy-Sweet Fun

So I will admit that, at first, I thought these guys were so darned cute I wanted to reach into my phone app and pinch their imaginary cheeks (on their faces! Don't be pervy!). I was a little concerned that this was going to be one of those reads where I was a little skeeved by the ages of the MCs because, let's face it, I've got kids at or near college-age and that's a little ... ugh sometimes when reading romance about that demographic.

Thankfully, that concern was blasted away pretty much from the beginning because Bentley's character description was fantastically sexy. (So my type ten *cough*—okay, fine! Twenty—years ago). It also didn't hurt that the humor was quirky, slightly over-the-top (intentionally) and nothing but fun. We didn't get beat about the head and shoulders with 'too young' pop-culture references and the oh-my-god-is-that-even-english slingo was kept to a minimum.

I fell in love with the MCs when they started their crazy text exchanges. I was already leaning that way, though, because they were just that lovable. Both of them. Each in their own, very different ways, but still. Lovable. Point in fact, one such text message from Bentley to Kit.

"[...] I'm just messaging you to say that I haven't been thinking about you at all today. Not one bit. And I don't even miss you. That's all. Later, Kitten."

Okay. Yeah. My idiot little sappy brain went, "Awwwww!" And after that, I was done. After that, the story just got more and more "Awwww!" inspiring. After that, I was infatuated and enthralled. Don't get me wrong, there was some low-level angst, and growing pains, and a few OMFG eyeroll moments but only because they were young. There was nothing that didn't feel real about their relationship, their reactions, their dialogue, their ... well, their anything.

I loved it. I hope this is the beginning of the story for these two. I thought I saw some foreshadowing in there, especially about a specific problem I think Bentley has tendencies for. Barring that particular in-my-fantasies plot-potential scenario, this story has legs. Period. I love that there is definitely enough of a foundation for another story as the real world and real life starts to put pressure on these guys' relationship. I hope we get to see it, even if I dread the potential pitfalls.

So is this the end for Kit and Benny? I don't know. I hope not. This story can and does stand alone very, very well so maybe I'm just not ready to let them go. If there is another one forthcoming, I am absolutely all there ... with bells on.

More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.
Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.
An ARC copy of this title was provided for an honest review.

Review Tour + Giveaway: On the Third Kiss by George Loveland

George Loveland's On the Third Kiss review tour stops today at the clubhouse, along with Signal Boost Promotions! Lorix reviewed the Christmas friends to lovers romance--5 <3 

And there is also a giveaway: win an eBook copy of On the Third Kiss! Check it out below!

Buy Links: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Length: 40,000 words approx.

Cover Design: Meredith Russell

Blurb

Sebastian Bennett is really looking forward to his Christmas holiday with boyfriend Elliot Bolton in the Gran Canarian sun. The only thing left is for him to sing one last song at the pub as his Drag Queen alter-ego, Donna Tracey. After the wig, make-up and dress come off, he rushes home to pack, only to find he and his chihuahua, Buster, have been deserted by Elliot, who’s taken someone else to Gran Canaria. Devastated, Elliot turns to his friend and the pub’s manager, Javier Reyes-Martinez, who helps him pick up the pieces.


Javier seems determined to bring fun and laughter back into Sebastian’s life during this holiday season, and Sebastian is both grateful and enchanted. After a family Christmas and a word of advice from his great-uncle, Sebastian starts to look at Javier in a different light. Is Javier as fond of Sebastian as he appears, or is Sebastian being misled by his own need? If he’s reading the signs right—and if he’s ready to move on from his previous heartbreak—could he and Javier be much more than friends?

This story was a proper treat. I've never read George Loveland before, but I definitely will be again. This story is a delightful romance that made me smile.

Although this story is told through the eyes of Sebastian -also known as drag queen, Donna Tracy - it is Javier who truly stole my heart.

I know it's not fashionable to love the nice guy, it's all about bad boys and their vulnerabilities, but I sometimes think the nice guy is waaaay ahead in the sexy, gotta love 'em stakes. Javier was a proper nice guy and that is sexy as fuck. He is such a genuinely good friend to Seb after Elliot did the dirty on him that it made my heart smile. He didn't push his own agenda, he was just being a good friend and I swear that is the biggest turn on ever.

Seb was vulnerable but he wasn't an idiot. He was fierce as Donna and called on his inner queen when required, he'd been hurt, blindsided by Elliot's actions, but he didn't let it swallow him up. A lot of that was due to Javier. It's hard to see the wood for the trees sometimes but when you finally do you see its full glory.

I loved that this story progressed naturally and the relationship felt true and made me giddy with holiday glee.

A winner by my standards. The feeling of love, respect and family is as Christmassy as mulled wine and mince pies. Delicious all round.

A copy provided for an honest review

December 4 - Valerie Ullmer, Gay Media Reviews, The Way She Reads, Dog-Eared Daydreams

December 8 - A One-Click Addicts Book Blog

December 11 - Mirrigold: Mutterings and Musings, My Book Filled Life

December 13 - Bayou Book Junkie, Boy Meets Boy Reviews, MM Good Book Reviews

December 15 - Reading Is Our Satisfaction, Hearts On Fire Reviews, BooksLaidBareBoys, Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words, My Fiction Nook


Author Bio

George was about eighteen when he told his friend that he was going to be a writer. It took him another eighteen years before he finally did anything about it and wrote his first short story. A typical Englishman, he drinks buckets of tea with milk—but no sugar, because he is sweet enough. His Nan told him so.


George lives just outside of London, but close enough to enjoy Soho and the West End, where you will find him in a bar with a pint, in a club dancing into the early hours of the morning, or enjoying a musical in the theater; but more than likely he will be in a coffee shop reading a book or writing a new story. Currently single, but taking applications for future husband position, George enjoys crafting romantic stories in which he hopes that one day, life will imitate art.


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