Review: Hallelujah by Kim Fielding and F.E. Feeley, Jr.

 

 Can you hear it? 

Whispering in the dark. 

Secrets only the dark knows. 

Joseph Moore, choir director for the First Baptist Church of Lenora, Nebraska, has secrets of his own. Terrible, lonely secrets. One that involves natural human desire. One that calls forth powers he cannot begin to understand. Both with the potential to destroy him and those he loves. 

Now the world is changing. The darkness, the shadows, the ghosts, are closing in—and Joseph and his lover, Kevin, are being stalked by a merciless demon, hell-bent on possession. 

Can you hear it now? 

There in the dark. 

It's whispering your name.

Every book I’ve read by Kim Fielding and F.E. Feeley, Jr. separately have been memorable, these two authors together brought my reading journey to another level. Hallelujah reminded me why I love to read, the all encompassing experience was overwhelming in the best possible way. I told the family they were on their own because I had book rapture happening and I would be unavailable for 374 pages, plus reflection time. 

Hallelujah is quite a ride. There is a lot going on, a lot of themes, a lot of action, a lot of realizations, a lot. The authors balanced and tied everything together so perfectly the story never felt too busy or at loose ends. Every sentence and action had a purpose for Joseph and his journey. 

There are many religious undertones (and overtones, if I’m honest) to Hallelujah. Religion is an integral component to the story and while the specific faith is personal to Joseph, the overarching theme is much more broad, encompassing the basics of good vs. evil and redemption and forgiveness. 

Growing up in an agnostic household, I was able to understand everything in theory, but I’m sure I was missing some of the visceral reactions someone who grew up in a religious upbringing might feel. I googled and learned a lot, something I always appreciate from a book, and I can’t decide which background would be more beneficial when reading Hallelujah. I bought a copy for a friend (he’s no longer actively practicing any formal religion, but he did grow up in a faithfully religious household) and we’re going to mini bookclub this one. 

There is so much more though too. If organized religion is not your jam, don’t let that keep you from Hallelujah. It’s part of who Joseph is in his core, and that part of him is clear and accessible to the reader. It explains a lot about the decisions he makes and the loyalties he keeps. 

I could go on and on and on about specifics and characters, but you get the gist from the blurb and part of the beauty of this book is meeting each of the characters for the first time. Reading the evolution of the relationships and interactions is the meat of this book. Sure, the horror is most definitely real, and most definitely horrifying, but we know evil because we know good and the characters here are so humanly good. Not perfect, perfect is boring and a falsehood. But inherent goodness is real and a real part of this book. 

Joseph. He’s so fully fleshed out, that I’ll remember him for a long time to come and he’ll make me reread this book. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to him when the story was done, even though the story was done with all the bits wrapped up in a bittersweet package. After everything the group had been through I wasn’t sure how Hallelujah would wrap, or if it even could, but damn, the authors did an amazing job of ending the story and being true to each of the characters.

**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**

Review: Second Chance by Jay Northcote

Everyone deserves a second chance.

Nate and his teenage daughter need a fresh start, so they move back to the village where he grew up. Nate’s transgender, and not used to disclosing his history, so it’s hard living where people knew him before. When Nate reconnects with Jack—his best friend from school and unrequited crush—his feelings return as strong as ever.

Jack’s returned home to get his life in order after an addiction to alcohol caused him to lose everything: his job, his driver’s licence, and nearly his life. He’s living with his parents, which is less than ideal, but rekindling his friendship with Nate—or Nat as Jack once knew him—is an unexpected benefit of being back home. Jack is amazed by Nate’s transformation, and can’t deny his attraction. Trying for more than friendship might ruin what they already have, but the chemistry between them is undeniable. 

Doubting his feelings are reciprocated, Nate fears he’s risking heartbreak. Jack’s reluctance to tell his parents about their relationship only reinforces Nate’s misgivings. With both their hearts on the line and their happiness at stake, Jack needs to make things right, and Nate has to be prepared to give him a second chance.

If I could stick more hearts to this story I would, in fact, I would stick ALL the hearts.

I finished Second Chance two weeks ago and I’m still thinking about the characters. It was like meeting new friends at pivotal points in their lives and I’m still fully invested even though I know an earned HEA was had.

Second Chance read so authentically I forgot I was even reading and I holed myself up for the day so I wouldn’t have to stop absorbing everything that was happening. Both Nate and Jack have returned home as adults and returning home is bittersweet. For Jack it’s definitely more bitter than sweet, but given his recent life choices and his relationship with his parents, it’s understandable. Nate has a solid family in his mom and a teenage daughter who isn’t easy, but who obviously loves him. Nate’s been settled in the village for a bit before Jack returns and when they first meet, Jack doesn’t even realize who Nate is.

Jack knew Nate as Nat back in school well before Nate transitioned and they were the best of friends. Both were loners until they found each other and the author gave a complete picture of their friendship and home lives via flashbacks throughout the book. When flashbacks work like they did in Second Chance, you get a story within a story and every bit of background evolves as it becomes relevant to current events so the reader gets added depth making the story just that much better.

As Jack and Nate got to know one another again as adults, the flashbacks also helped serve to give each of their younger voices the closure they never got when they were kids. Which made sense. Teenagers by nature are pretty self serving beasties in general and neither of them had the maturity to completely understand themselves much less anyone else. Jack was really pretty “normal” as far as teenagers go and he and Nat really had a special closeness. Nate was just beginning to understand why he wasn’t Nat and reading about him having to grow up as a teenage girl in love with her gay best friend is a recipe for heartbreak. As much as I did love the flashbacks, there was a melancholy air to them that got heavier as Nate’s story evolved.

Jack never understood why Nate cut off contact after school, but Nate has learned to be true in every aspect of his life. The honesty has served him well and in all truthfulness the story owes its strength to Nate’s honesty. Nate and Jack form a tentative friendship once again with a heavy dose of chemistry and Nate admits to Jack that he was in love with him back in the day and being best friends while Jack moved through a list of boyfriends was just too hard for Nate to watch.

Jack was honest with Nate too about his issues and the communication between the two of them was refreshing and necessary for this story. As the two got closer and decided to take their relationship to a physical level, Jack’s inner dialog was realistic and really very sweet. Jack was growing pretty smitten with Nate and more than anything else, he wanted to do right by Nate. A big part of that for the two of them was their compatibility sexually. There was no doubt there was intense attraction between them but Jack was in the dark about the specifics of Nate’s anatomy and what he was supposed to do. His naivete was charming and being that his concern was making his partner happy was sweetly impressive. Jack was lucky though, he was with Nate and Nate was open and let Jack know how intimacy works for him and Jack was wonderful about learning how to make Nate happy. The scenes between Nate and Jack were affectionately erotic and beautifully sensual.

The author really knows how to teach readers organically. Humans, being the nosy ass animals they are, are fascinated with what they don’t know. And let’s face it, what goes on behind closed doors or beneath the clothing of anyone is no one’s damn business. It doesn’t make anyone less nosy though and learning about transgender sexuality through relevant context is a pretty effective way to help understand human sexuality overall. No one should be defined solely by how, when or why they have consensual sex, but sexual orientation should always be respected and understanding and knowledge are invaluable to making that be a thing.

Remember when I said Jack wanted to do right by Nate? Well he did kind of blow it there towards the end. Jack’s parents weren’t cruel by any means, but they aren’t the most understanding and open either. Jack is in a pretty vulnerable place already and he’s not up to dealing with the feared fallout about their reaction to Jack’s relationship with Nate. Jack also felt guilty for not telling them about Nate, he knew he was being disrespectful to Nate, but he just didn’t have the confidence in himself yet. It really had nothing to do with Nate, but that’s easy to say when you aren’t the one being kept secret. An accidental run in made for an awkward and painful moment, but while the angst was true and earned, thankfully it didn’t last long. Jack learned a lot from Nate, most especially how to be brave. Jack pulled it together and did the right thing through lots of apologies and truth about what was in his heart for Nate.

The ending was a treat and I love where their lives are heading. It really is a beginning for them and I miss them already. This book has a permanent spot on my reread shelf.

**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**

Audiobook Review: The Destiny of Dragons (Tales from Verania #2) by T.J. Klune

Once upon a time, the wizard’s apprentice Sam of Wilds got his happily ever after in the arms of his cornerstone, Knight Commander Ryan Foxheart. A year has passed, and while Sam’s been captured five or six more times since then, things are pretty great. His parents are happy, Gary and Tiggy still eat sass for breakfast, Randall is somehow alive despite being older than the gods, the King rules with a gentle hand, Kevin the dragon is as gross as ever, Morgan sighs a lot, Ryan continues to be dashing and immaculate, and Sam is close to convincing Prince Justin they will be best friends forever.

Life is good.

Until it’s not.

Because Vadoma, the leader of the Gypsy clan and Sam’s grandmother, has come to the City of Lockes with a dire prophecy written in the stars: a man of shadows is rising and will consume the world unless Sam faces his destiny and gathers the five dragons of Verania at his side.

And she brings along her second-in-command, a man named Ruv.

Ruv, who Vadoma says is Sam’s true cornerstone.

The first book in the DESTINY FUCK YEAH! Trilogy (because sometimes, having a destiny is the stupidest thing ever).

Narrator: Michael Lesley
Listening Length:16 hrs 40 mins

I honestly had some trouble starting this review.

What can I possibly say that hasn’t already been said?

For some fangirling reference, check out our group review when the book was released.  I stand by it all and then some.

So, to at least keep this review from going stale, I’m going to focus on the sublime pairing of T.J. Klune’s words and Michael Lesley’s narration. Listening to A Destiny of Dragons is not a passive experience, it doesn’t run in the background while you’re driving, doing chores, blah, blah, blah. Listening to this book is an event that is all encompassing in the best possible way. Thank sweet baby jeebus for the 30 second rewind nubbin on the app; because I get to laughing at a Gary rant and miss a whole passage, or Sam will have an epiphany that is perfectly worded and then spoken in Sam’s “contemplative” tone that always gets my attention, or Ryan will just be Ryan and I want to hear him again.

I listen to a lot of audiobooks and am a huge fan of quite a few narrators. Some though, some can just make the words come alive and when the perfect match between book and narrator come together, the book gets elevated and as listeners we get to experience the story on a more intimate level. Michael Lesley is simply amazing. There are A LOT of characters and these aren’t just MC’s and secondary characters, these are KLUNE characters. They have completely unique personalities, rapid fire interactions and the entire gamut of emotions from start to finish. He nails every scene and every bit of banter and I’d love to sit down with him over beer and nachos just to listen to him tell me all his behind the scenes stories of creating a T.J. Klune audiobook.

I’ve gushed over the narration and now I just want to ramble a bit about the series as a whole and what it means to me. One of the best experiences in the world is loving something with your friends. It’s a quiet thing really, it doesn’t take a lot of expense or effort, but the sense of community it creates is priceless. It’s a strength in our little world that I know I take for granted too often and when I was thinking about what I could say about The Tales of Verania that wouldn’t be a repeat of what I’ve already said, words didn’t come to me, but feelings did.

I’m not a super mushy person by nature, but when I love something I’ll smother it hard with all my feelings and when I think of this series, outside of the specifics of the story, it just plain makes my happy. I love that the characters are not perfect, I love that they’re relatable and I love that I can respect them. I love that I can be a part of their epic adventures and that I’m not alone, my friends are with me for the ride. I’ve talked about this series with friends I’ve met in person and some whose real names I don’t even know. I bought the audiobook for another friend and he and I have listened together and texted back and forth throughout every chapter.

I know that this just one series that brings readers together, but this is the most meaningful one for me personally. It’s not just the words or the narration, it’s the sense of comaraderie with fellow readers and listeners both the author and the narrator created that I am truly thankful for. It’s a seemingly minor thing that is actually a pretty big deal.

I have to say a big thank you to both T.J. Klune and Michael Lesley for giving me something to love so hard with my fellow book (and audiobook) pals.

Thanks guys, see you in the next book!

**a copy of this audiobook was provided for an honest review**

Audiobook Review: The Downs by Kim Fielding, narrated by K.C. Kelly

As the son of a wealthy man, Enitan Javed has spent his life frivolously - drinking, fighting, and making love. But after his father dies, Enitan is unjustly accused of murdering him and is given the harshest sentence possible. Judged irredeemable, he is banished to the Downs. As even young children know, nothing lives in the Downs except demons who delight in torturing the condemned. Brutalized by the men who transport him to his fate, Enitan has nothing left but his thirst for vengeance.

His plummet to the Downs nearly kills him, and Enitan finds himself battered and helpless in a frightening, mysterious land. But many surprises await him there, including a strange man named Rig. And the realization that the demons he must face aren't at all the ones he expected.

Wow. I don't know what stopped me from reading The Downs when it was initially released. What took me so long? I mean... it's Kim Fielding, so duh. Now though, now I'm glad I kept pushing it to the side. While the story alone is something quite beautiful, the narration of it was truly spectacular.

Enitan and Rig's story was not was I was expecting. From the cover and the (original) blurb, I was expecting something with a bit more grit. Maybe some kind of battle or contest. But no. Instead I got Enitan and Rig, with their beautiful and compelling story of redemption and new beginnings.

Enitan thinks he is unredeemable. He was thrown into The Downs after being convicted of his father's murder. He's only heard stories of The Downs. All he knows is that it's a place where demons prey on the condemned.

Enitan thinks he is unredeemable, but Rig knows the truth. He finds Enitan after his fall. Rig takes him in. Nurtures him. Heals him. Loves him. Rig is patient and kind. He lives in The Downs and shows Enitan what it's really like there. Rig shows him that it's a place of new beginnings. It felt like it took Enitan forever (and a day) to finally see what was right in front of him. But Rig was there, right beside him, like always. Waiting. Supporting. Basically being one of the most special characters I've read.

Kim Fielding has a way with characters. I know, I know... she has a way with writing great romances. But her characters... they just go beyond the norm. The go beyond my everyday expectations in M/M romance. It can be historical, paranormal, contemp... any genre and you can bet the characters are going to be something special. Rig was something special. He was loving, forgiving, patient, nurturing. He was all those things, but never came off as a fake, perfectly perfect character. He was basically perfect, but real and honest. I loved Enitan, too. But Rig stole my heart.

All that gushing and I haven't even mentioned the narration. AH-mazing. K.C. Kelly did a fantastic job bringing The Downs to life. He narrated both Enitan and Rig perfectly. He really brought out both of their distinct characters in his acting. And Rig's accent? Gah! So good.

I can't recommend The Downs enough. Read it. Listen to it. Either way, you won't regret it.

A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

Find out more info on Goodreads.

 

Review: Will & Patrick's Happy Ending (Wake Up Married #6) by Leta Blake and Alice Griffiths

Follow Will & Patrick in this final installment of the romantic-comedy serial, Wake Up Married, by best-selling author Leta Blake and newcomer Alice Griffiths!

Sure, Will and Patrick are in love now, but they weren’t when they got married in Vegas. For Patrick, that’s no problem, but Will can’t shake his doubts that a relationship started through coercion can ever become the real deal.

Since the Molinaro crime family has reversed their position on divorce, Will and Patrick have a chance to rectify their drunken mistake. But is divorce the solution? Find out in this final instalment of the much-beloved Wake up Married serial.


Episode 6 of 6 in the Wake Up Married serial. 

  
It doesn't get much better than this, my Unicorn friends.

At the end of Will & Patrick Meet the Mob we were left with a bit of a cliffhanger. Will and Patrick were finally able to get what they had wanted all along... a divorce. Something they say they want, but nobody actually wants. But regardless of what they know in their heart, neither has said their feelings out loud. Will decides that a divorce might be the best thing for them. 

Of course, I was screaming curses at my kindle. What was Will thinking?! Was he thinking at all? But the further he went into his reasoning the more it all made sense. It made perfect sense because of who Will is and his experiences. That's not to say his reasoning wasn't totally wrong and crazy, but for Will, there were some things he needed to process before making a leap.

As you can tell from the title, these guys do get their happily ever after and it was every bit as amazing as I knew it would be. Puddin' Pop and HottieMcBrainSurgeon wouldn't stand for less.

As always, there was snark, there was humor and there was hotness. There were also lots of tears. Lots and lots. My goodness, this one hit my right in the gut. I was actually a little blindsided. Sad things are not supposed to happen in my romantic comedies! But that's life and it sucks sometimes.

That's my favorite thing about this series. Alice Griffiths and Leta Blake make me feel such a mix of emotions in just over 100+ pages. Books like this are the whole reason I read romance. They perfectly balance what can make real life so uncomfortably real, with a touch of fantasy we look for in romance novels. 

Is it too much to hope for more? I'm not ready to say goodbye just yet. Will & Patrick are already on my re-read list. I'm pretty sure I'll be revisiting them very soon.

A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

Find out more info on Goodreads.

Review: Will & Patrick Meet the Mob (Wake Up Married #5) by Leta Blake and Alice Griffiths

Follow Will & Patrick in this fifth installment of the romantic-comedy serial, Wake Up Married, by best-selling author Leta Blake and newcomer Alice Griffiths!

Patrick has finally accepted that he's in love with Will, but his newfound determination to do something about that runs up against his father-in-law's mobster plans. Though just what those plans are have as yet to be determined. As far as Will and Patrick can tell, they consist of blowing through town, wreaking small havoc, and turning the Patterson family's lives on end.

Will must face the truth about his family before he can fully come to terms with his feelings for Patrick. And Patrick has to decide if this whackadoodle world is something he truly wants to be part of forever.

Episode 5 of 6 in the Wake Up Married serial.

 

The best of the best of the best. No joke. I can't get enough of Will & Patrick.

This installment starts with a little suspense. Will's dad is in town and being a mob boss he makes things... interesting. His methods may not be the most conventional, but he does love his son and has his best interests at heart. But with good ol' Dad in town, Will literally has everyone in his life all in his business trying to tell him how to live. I don't understand them! It's obvious they love Will, but they are intense. I get his mother's worry. Will doesn't have the greatest track record with decision making, but what's so bad about Patrick? As Patrick would say, he's a genius doctor! The total package.

Not only is he a hot, genius doctor.

But he loves Will. Really, really loves him. 

Will can't seem to see what's right in front of his face (still). Regardless of the words still unspoken, things between them continue to grow more intense. They add a couple kinks to their sex repertoire and it was de-lightful.  Goodness, just when I thought they couldn't get any better or hotter together. Will was finally able to let go of the shame he felt in the bedroom and be himself with Patrick. Patrick gave him a safe place to let go and let his needs be known. 

Family drama, hilariousness, snark, hot as hell sex, feels. So many feels. Leta Blake and Alice Griffiths create the perfect balance between comedy and drama. I can't believe there's only one more book left. I don't think I'll be ready to say goodbye. 

A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

Find out more info on Goodreads.

Review: Will & Patrick Fight their Feelings (Wake Up Married #4) by Leta Blake and Alice Griffiths

Follow Will & Patrick in this fourth installment of the romantic-comedy serial, Wake Up Married, by best-selling author Leta Blake and newcomer Alice Griffiths!

Will and Patrick have embraced adding hot sexy-times to their fake marriage, but as their emotions deepen, they confront whether or not they want to be more than friends-with-benefits. Freshly free of a restrictive relationship, Will’s not ready for more than exploratory fun. And no matter how Patrick feels about Will, his own difficult past has left him wary of love.

The heat is high (and occasionally kinky) in this episode of the Wake Up Married serial, but Will and Patrick struggle to accept their mutual affection, much less confess it. How long will they fight their feelings?

Episode 4 of 6 in the Wake Up Married serial.

“Your mouth is where my dick wants to go to die.”

First things first, could I love Patrick anymore than I do? Probably not. But I didn't think I could last episode either, and then he gets all mushy and says romantic things like that.

This installment is all about Will and Patrick and their growing feelings. The title says is all here. They're fighting it. Fighting hard. Oddly enough, it's Will who can't pull his head out of his ass.

Again, there's so much depth to these guys and things only go deeper. Deeper into their feelings, deeper into their past and their fears, and what they see in their future. For both of them, they still don't see their marriage in their future. Both looking towards, but dreading, their inevitable divorce.

Despite their obliviousness, I certainly felt all the feels. OMGGGGGGG. I want to squish them and then bang their heads together. How can they not see what's in front of their face. How perfect and wonderful they are together. How they bring the best out in each other without even trying. They adore each other and I adore them for it. 

While they're still holding back their feelings, things continue to go forward in the bedroom. Whew. Who knew sweet, lovable Will could be so damn kinky. And Patrick is more than happy to oblige. Sadly enough Will was made to feel like his desires in bed were wrong in his previous relationship. Patrick made sure Will knew his desires were not only OK, but sexy as fuck. They were sexy as fuck together. Hollllllyyyyy shiiiiiiiiiitttttttttttttt.

This serial is only getting better and better as it goes on. Getting to know Will and Patrick's relationship right along side them couldn't be more fun. 

A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

Find out more info on Goodreads.
 

Release Day Review: Dirty Heart (Cole McGinnis #6) by Rhys Ford

Final book in the Dirty Series arc.

Former LAPD detective Cole McGinnis’s life nearly ended the day his police partner and best friend Ben Pirelli emptied his service weapon into Cole and his then-lover, Rick. Since Ben turned his gun on himself, Cole thought he’d never find out why Ben tried to destroy him.

Years later, Cole has stitched himself back together. Now a private investigator and in love with Jae-Min Kim, a Korean-American photographer he met on a previous case, Cole’s life is back on track—until he discovers Jeff Rollins, a disgraced cop and his first partner, has resurfaced and appears to be working on the wrong side of the law.

As much as Cole’s fought to put the past behind him, he’s soon tangled up in a web of lies, violence, and death. Jeff Rollins is not only trying to kill Cole’s loved ones, he is also scraping open old wounds and long-forgotten memories of the two men Cole loved and lost. Cole is sure Rollins knows why Ben ruined all their lives, but he isn’t looking for answers. Now Cole is caught in a cat-and-mouse game with a cold-blooded killer with the key to not only his past but his future.

Warning!  Long review is long!

Long, long ago, back in Ye Olden Tymes (ok, more like 2013) when I was but a wee unicorn, upon the advice of the beautiful Piper Vaughn I decided to crash GRL in Atlanta.  I was nervous and timid and really out of my comfort zone because I was going to meet some of my favorite authors. To be honest, I was a bit starstruck.  Oh, I put on a brave face when, really, I was trembling inside.  What if I did something stupid like trip over my own two feet or drooled or spit when I talked?  What if no one talked to me?  What if no one liked me?

But guess what happened when I got there.  Almost immediately after I walked into the lobby of the hotel I was met by Piper, who was hanging out at the time with Rhys.  Rhys brought me into the fold and made me feel welcome.  We talked a bit and she put me on her mailing list.  Rhys is a warm, kind and thoughtful person who put me at ease with her humor and really set the tone for one of the most wonderful days I’d had in a long time. 

Rhys, Piper & Me looking gorgeous as always

And this thoughtfulness, warmth and humor translates into the stories she writes.

I first met Cole and Jae two years ago when I was asked to review Dirty Deeds, book 4 in the Cole McGinnis series.  Seeing as how I hadn’t even read book 1, Rhys generously offered the entire series up to then for me to read.  I was a bit reluctant to get into the series because, really, I don’t like mysteries.  I always figure out whodunit early into the story and it detracts from my enjoyment.  Well, guess what.  I didn’t know whodunit!  In fact, I was stumped by each and every one of the books in the series, never guessing who the culprit was until they were revealed.  To say that this quickly became one of my most favorite series of all time is a severe understatement.

To be honest, I’ve been a little scared to read this.  I’ve had the ARC since January but I kept putting it off because what if I didn’t like it?  What if it didn’t live up to my expectations?  To have a series that I hold so close to my heart disappoint me in the end was a bit daunting.  But of course, of course I loved this.  I have loved every book that Rhys has ever written so I’m ashamed that I had any reservations about this one.  I’m sorry, Rhys, for ever doubting you.

Each one of these books starts out with shenanigans.  Whether it’s a gun-toting grandma in a leather bikini, a daring dog rescue for a little girl with anime eyes and a unicorn toy for payment or even clowns and llama shit, Cole can’t seem to stay out of trouble.  It’s like he’s a magnet for the absurd.  But don’t worry, this is balanced out by the meat of the story where we get to ride along with Cole on his adventures.  

Throughout the series we’ve witnessed one overall story arc:  Why did Cole’s best friend and partner on the force, Ben shoot him and his then lover Rick, murdering him and then kill himself?  What was it all for?  What the hell happened?  It was a senseless murder-suicide that came out of nowhere, the consequences of which Cole has been carrying around ever since.  Even years later he hasn’t been able to put it behind him and move on with his life because he needed to know what.  The fuck.  Happened.

Jae coming into his life has helped him heal somewhat but he’s never been able to get over it enough to live an emotionally healthy life.  He’s still stuck on stupid a lot of the times, rushing headlong into danger and sometimes forgetting he has someone to live for again.  But here’s the thing about Cole.  He’s fierce in his love, not only for Jae but for his brother Mike, his best friend Bobby, his pseudo-mom Claudia and anyone else he considers ‘family’.  The man may not be able to dress himself in colors that coordinate but if he thinks you’re in danger he will protect you with everything he has, even if it is to his own detriment.  I think that has a lot to do with all the survivors guilt that he can’t seem to let go of, though throughout the series we see him becoming stronger and more confident in himself.  

Thankfully, in this last book of the series, we finally learn why Ben did what he did all those years ago.  And let me tell you I did not see that coming.  Rhys has stumped me again!  That wasn’t even on my radar!  And no, I’m not going to tell you why.  Read the book!  Better yet, pick up Dirty Kiss, book one of the series.  Seriously, you can’t go wrong with this series.  Rhys Ford is a phenomenal writer, with words so descriptive I can see and hear and smell and even taste everything that goes on within the pages.  Her words have the ability to suck you in and not let go until you’ve finished, then leave you with the worst of book hangovers.  It always takes me a while to pull myself back out of whatever world she’s created after I’ve finished one of her stories.  And she writes some of the most amazing characters I have ever read.  Everyone, even the secondary and tertiary characters are fully fleshed out and have their own unique voice.  She has made me fall in love with these figments of her imagination and to think of them as real people.

How do I go about telling you what Cole and Jae and Bobby and Ichi and Mike and Maddy and Claudia mean to me?  Where do I begin?  How can I encompass all of the feelings of love and laughter and companionship and frustration and annoyance and friendship into a few short words?  Well, I guess it all boils down to one thing.  Family.  This feels like my family.  I feel a part of this fictitious world.  Every one of the characters in this series are special to me.   I’m so sad to see them go but this couldn’t have been a more perfect ending for them.  

Saranghae-yo Cole.  Saranghae-yo Jae-Min.  I will miss you all and I hope to hear from you again in the future. 

Dreamspinner Press
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Review: Something Like Stories: Volume One by Jay Bell

Benjamin Bentley and many other beloved characters from the Something Like... series make their triumphant return in this collection of short stories and bonus material. Something Like Yesterday travels to the past where Eric Conroy attempts to find love against a backdrop of intolerance and political upheaval. In Something Like Fall , Ben meets Jace's family and tries to cope with many changes in the years that follow. Allison Cross finally gets her dues in Something Like Tonight , examining the relationships in her life during a girls night out. Something Like Eternity takes the series where it has never gone before as Victor Hemingway seeks out his ultimate destiny. Also included is a character guide and a timeline of key events thus far. Laughter and tears await you in this very special anthology!

Simply wonderful.  

Fans of Jay Bell's Something Like series are in for a TREAT. If you haven't read any of the series yet, I wouldn't suggest you start here. I don't think these stories would pack the same emotional punch without reading all six of the previous books first. And what an emotional ride it was! All four stories brought out The Feels. I had also just finished up listening to Something Like Autumn... so yeah. It was a tear filled day. 

To the stories!

In Something Like Yesterday Eric tells Tim of his past loves and heartbreak. I've always wondered about Eric's past and of his feelings for Tim. And now we know! And from Eric's POV, no less. While parts of his past were heartbreaking, he did have years in a relationship full of love. If anything, this proved his feelings for Tim even more. He wasn't bitter about his breakup with Gabriel, instead he was thankful that everything led to having Tim in his life.  He certainly didn't have the same kind of love for Tim as Gabriel, but there is no doubt that he loved Tim. 

Something Like Fall felt like a series of extra scenes from Ben's POV. It started with him and Jace visiting Jace's hometown, which resulted in Jace opening up about some things from his past he had kept from Ben. Which was great because I wondered how much Ben knew about Victor. Then the story moves forward to Ben saying goodbye to Jace. To say this scene was beautiful would be an understatement. The final section is all about Jason and how Ben and Tim cope with inviting him to live in their home. All the scenes were from very different points in Ben's life, but fit together so perfectly. 

Something Like Tonight was just fun. Of course it was also emotional, because duh. I can't seem to be around any of these characters without feeling all the feels. But it was mostly fun. Allison is worn out and tired. Tired of taking care of everyone else, so her wonderful hubby suggested she take a night out all by herself. Prior to her night out she happens to see Michelle and they decide to have their girl's night together. The drank, got into some shenanigans, and went home to their loving families. I loved seeing this side of Allison.

And then... and then came Something Like Eternity. Like I said earlier, I had just finished listening to Autumn the same day I read this, so there were tears. LOTS OF TEARS. Amazing, happy, hopeful, wonderful tears. Victor is in the afterlife. He's in the same afterlife Jay writes about in Hell's Pawn (another must read). Victor has made a space for himself here that feels like home. It resembles the clearing where he stayed by Jace's house. He starts to feel a pull, like a calling. He knows he's meant to be somewhere else, but can't pinpoint where that somewhere else should be. So he runs into some helpers. I'll let you read the story to find out who those helpers were, but Jay Bell took Victor's story to a place that I never even dreamed it could go. I'm in tears again as I'm thinking about Victor and the feeling of hope his story left me with. 

At the end there's a character guide and timeline, which is a fantastic addition. But now I have to go reread Hell's Pawn! Seems I missed a few things the first time around. 

I went in knowing I would love this and I did. The new POV's, how different all the stories were, revisiting these characters, everything. I loved everything.

A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

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Audiobook Review: Something Like Winter (Seasons #2) by Jay Bell

There are two sides to every story. When you’re Tim Wyman, sometimes there are three.

Tim hoped moving to Texas would mean a new beginning but soon finds himself falling into the same tired patterns. Until he meets recklessly brave Benjamin Bentley, who introduces Tim to a world of love, sex, and warmth. Certain that society won’t understand what he and Ben have together, Tim struggles to protect their relationship, even if it means twisting the truth. Buried beneath his own deceptions, Tim must claw his way to the surface in the hopes of learning to fly.

To say this book is beautiful would be a gross understatement. 

There's just something about Tim's story that is so real and heartbreaking and humbling. 

As a teenager, he was confused and unsure about his attraction to guys. He knew it was there, but he certainly didn't think it meant he was gay. Let's not be hasty here.

But he met Ben, and I completely agree with Tim, Ben brings out the best in him. Tim was growing and learning and changing. He learned so much about himself through his time with Ben. But some things happened too fast for Tim. He lost control of the situation with Ben, and with that, lost the most important thing in his life. 

Tim moves forward, I wouldn't say he moves on, but definitely forward. He floats through life; he finds some successful relationships and some very damaging relationships along the way. His story was the most heartbreaking for me, he was so broken and so lost. Nobody was there to really love him except his best friend, Eric. He became Tim's closest friend, something he could trust and confide in. They were never anything more than that, but it was everything to Tim. 

Oh, Tim. Every time he thought he found something solid to hang onto, it was gone. He was again left alone. He was floundering. He was desperate. He made some great mistakes, but it was all in the name of love. That makes it sorta okay. Right? Right??!? 

I think so. 

Love is desperate and raw and messy and heartbreaking. Tim took all of that emotion, mashed it all together and made some really bad choices. But I'm pretty sure he'd do it again, if it meant getting Ben back. Ben was it for him. 

Throughout the 10 year or so span of these books Ben and Tim touch each others lives, coming in and out for brief moments but they were never able to find the right moment to be together. Well, in the end they finally found their moment. And it was beautiful.

All that and I didn't even mention the complete brilliance that is Kevin R. Free's narrating. He captured the essence of every character. He made me love characters that weren't particularly memorable for me before. Allison can step right on up as my #1 Book Girlfriend. 

Something Like Winter is more than worth the read and the reread. This was my second time, I originally read the ebook and have now listened to the audio. Next time (because there will so be a next time), I'll have to pick up a paperback.

A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

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Audiobook Review: Love Lessons (Love Lessons #1) by Heidi Cullinan

Love doesn’t come with a syllabus.

Kelly Davidson has waited what seems like forever to graduate high school and get out of his small-minded, small town. But when he arrives at Hope University, he quickly realizes finding his Prince Charming isn’t so easy. Everyone here is already out. In fact, Kelly could be the only virgin on campus.

Worst of all, he’s landed the charming, handsome, gay campus Casanova as a roommate, whose bed might as well be equipped with a revolving door.

Walter Lucas doesn’t believe in storybook love. Everyone is better off having as much fun as possible with as many people as possible…except his shy, sad little sack of a roommate is seriously screwing up his world view.

As Walter sets out to lure Kelly out of his shell, staying just friends is harder than he anticipated. He discovers love is a crash course in determination. To make the grade, he’ll have to finally show up for class…and overcome his own private fear that love was never meant to last.

Warning: This story contains lingering glances, milder than usual sexual content for this author, and a steamy dance-floor kiss. Story has no dairy or egg content, but may contain almonds.

I had the most ridiculous grin on my face the entire time I listened to this. The. Entire. Time.

My kids were probably wondering how cleaning the house could make me so happy. But I can't be sure... I wasn't listening.

I was busy listening to Iggy Toma's VOICE reading me Heidi Cullinan's WORDS.

Love Lessons has all the things I love about the YA/NA genre.

Two youngins trying to figure out this whole love thing. One is a cynic who prefers things to be short term and the other a hopeless romantic dreaming of Flynn Rider and The One. They were roommates (win!) and quickly became friends (win!), which led to endless tension (win!). It was full of delicious slow burn, with some scorching hot kisses along the way.

Kelly was adorable. He had the cutest quirks and I loved being a part of his journey out into the world. He's finally out of the small town and could be himself without any ridicule. Aw... sweet, naive Kelly... how I wish that were true. Lucky for him, he had Walter there to balance him out. But, no matter how much of a realist Walter tried to be, he couldn't resist all of Kelly's cuteness. Not many people could, I don't think. I loved how Walter was with Kelly. He was so protective and thoughtful. He always put Kelly first, without even trying to. Putting Kelly ahead of himself was just natural to him.

I didn't care much for all the college drama with the professor and such, so those scenes were a bit boring for me. Buuuuuuuuttttt... Kelly and Walter were together, soooooo I wasn't bothered all that much.

They put me in my happy place. I'm sitting here smiling just thinking about them. Kelly was the cutest and Walter was the sweetest. I just want to wrap them up and keep them forever.

I'm 99.973% positive that Love Lessons is fabulous in print, but I really have to recommend the audio version. 

Gah, the voice. Mixed with the words. Iggy Toma was the perfect choice for Love Lessons. He captured all of Walter's cynicism and all of Kelly's naivety and created amazing chemistry between them.

I enjoyed the crap outta this.

A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

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Review: A Way Home (Gay Amish Romance #3) by Keira Andrews

Will returning to their Amish roots renew their faith in each other?

Isaac and David never thought they'd go back to the Amish world. But when Isaac’s younger brother is stricken with cancer, they don’t hesitate to return. Their relationship is on the rocks after insecurity and fear drove a wedge between them in San Francisco, and David is determined to make things right. Yet if they thought navigating “English” life was confusing, being back in Zebulon is even more complicated.

Their families are desperate to bring them back into the fold, and pressure from the community builds. Isaac and David yearn for a future together, but each day it becomes harder to hide the truth about who they really are. They're caught between two worlds, and if they’re not careful it could tear them further apart.

Can Isaac and David make their way back to each other—and find a place to call home?

After the end of A Clean Break, I couldn't get my hands on A Way Home fast enough.

I knew all would be well. Isaac and David are too good not to be understanding and forgiving. I knew it would all work out... but I still had to find out first hand. Like, right away!

So, it picks up right where A Clean Break left off. After their big fight, Isaac leaves to go back to Zebulon to see his brother who is sick. He leaves without any resolution with David. They're relationship is kind-of up in the air, but it's pushed aside because the health of Isaac's brother is more important.

And that, that right there, is what I love so much about Isaac and David. They're so good. They're selfless, giving, forgiving, loving and full of so much good. It's like they took all the best parts of being Amish and became these amazing young men. Way too young to be so good. But it's not fake or forced, because of their background and their families, it only makes sense that this is who they are. They're not stereotypical perfectly perfect characters. They make mistakes and mess up (book 2, anyone?), but they know how to be gracious and humble. I simply adore them.

They go through quite a bit while back home in Zebulon. Isaac not only has a sick brother, but he's staying with his parents. They, of course, put on the pressure to come back to the church. David feels the same pressure from his family. Ugh, their families. I get sticking to your beliefs, but at the expense of your child? Nope. Can't get behind that. They have a strong faith and I have to admire that much conviction, even if they are contradictions in their beliefs, but rejecting your child is just... too much. Too much to even think about, and it makes me so angry that parents are willing to make their children feel less.

I had so many real, raw emotions while reading A Way Home. These boys have struck a chord with me and I'll be sure to revisit them. I'm not certain if this is the final book. I think it might be? If it is, I would have loved some more couple time. There was so much drama surrounding them, some more HEA bliss would have been welcome. There was a nice epilogue, and I love me an epilogue, but I suppose I'm greedy and selfish and want MORE.

Always more of Isaac and David.

A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

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Review: The Bridge of Silver Wings (More Heat Than the Sun #3) by John Wiltshire

The third book in the series More Heat Than the Sun

Ben discovers the truth of the old adage 'be careful what you wish for'. Nikolas has exorcised his demons, but when they end up stranded in Russia, the monster inside needs to be let loose. Siberia in winter isn't a place for good men. There is nothing Nikolas won't do to keep Ben alive. Home again, Nikolas then faces an enemy he can't defeat: Ben Rider himself. Discovering a new family, Ben realises he's been living too long in the shadows cast by Nikolas's all-consuming love. For the first time, life apart from Nikolas is possible. Is Nikolas strong enough to let Ben go?

Move over favorites list!

*shoves past Jake & Adrien and Ben & Tim & Jace* (<- yeah, I said that)

*makes room for Ben & Nikolas*
  
Good. Now that they are right where they belong, we can begin.

This series is climbing higher and higher towards the very tip-top of my favorites list. It has it all. Crazy good plot, action, suspense, intense chemistry and a romance to die for.

Right away I was sucked into their romance. For me, it's all in the dialogue. The dialogue. For serious, John Wiltshire can write a conversation. I'm not much of a highlighter, but I have 11 highlights just in chapter one. Their connection is so intense, I feel it in everything they say and do. I'm not even gonna start with the quoting here. I won't be able to stop once I do.

In part 1, Ben and Nikolas are off to Russia. On the way, the plane crashes in a remote area. There are some survivors, but Nik and Ben have to come together in order to get themselves and the survivors to safety. It's not an easy task. They face some pretty horrific things and, oh my, the suspense! My heart may have stopped a few times.

Their relationship thrived in this crazy sitch they found themselves in. Amongst people dying and surviving late fall in Russia, these two are out having sex in the snow. And playing and cuddling and being all swoony and cute. Nikolas? Cute? Yeah, he was. They really made some progress in this love they share.

I thought we were all hunky dory. I was settling in for smooth HEA sailing in Part 2.

Ha! If I thought Part 1 was suspenseful... I really was not prepared for Part 2. Not in the least.

In Part 2, Ben is able to see his newly found house and reconnect with family he never knew he had. Sounds nice and peaceful, right? Yup, it shoulda been. But, as we know, Ben and Nik don't do well with calm. Ugh. This kind of stress is not good for my heart. Ben went a little bonkers. I get that his life was kind of turned upside down, but I really wanted to smack him. Which is weird, because it's usually Nikolas I want to smack.

Some crazy stuffs went down. There were times I gasped out loud or had to just stop, put the kindle down and take a few breaths. It was that intense. But it was so (sosososososo) worth it. Both men proved themselves to each other. The things they did... *sigh* they were so perfect and thoughtful and had so much damn meaning, that I was a blubbering mess.

Their relationship is just breathtaking. 

Here I've gone on and on about them and I've yet to mention how damn sexy they are. Nikolas may be the take-charge kind of guy in their 'everyday' affairs, but in the bedroom he is Ben's. And Ben takes full advantage of that control. Unf.

I feel like I'm not fully conveying my complete adoration of this series. I'm trying really hard not to be like 'OMG!OMG!OMG! It's so totally awesome and I can't get enough of them!' When this is really all I want to say when I talk about this couple. I want you to know that the writing is phenomenal, I love it and I want you to read it and love it, too. Then come tell me about it so we can gush about all the things. I need someone to gush with.

 

A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.

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