Guest Review: Hardwood (Four Bears Construction #3) by KM Neuhold

I’ve spent forty-four years of my life telling the world I’m a carpet man. Is it too late to admit to myself and everyone else that deep down I’m really all about the Hardwood?

It took me over thirty-five years to admit to myself that I’m gay, another seven to find the courage to say it out loud to anyone else, and exactly thirty seconds to develop a massive crush on my daughter’s music teacher. It’s really not my fault, have you even seen those cute bowties he wears?

After everything it’s taken to get here, am I going to work up the nerve to come out to my ex-wife and my best friends? Am I ready to shake up my comfortable, simple life and take a chance on Watson? Or am I going to throw a wrench in my own chance for happily ever after?

***Hardwood is a steamy, seriously so much delicious tension, single-dad, gay awakening, low angst story, which happens to be the third in the Four Bears Construction Series. It CAN be read as a stand alone. There are NO shifters in this series, only the OTHER kind of bears.***

Reviewer: Shee Reader

Everett owns a construction company with three of his closest friends, They are all out and proud gay men living their best lives with smoochy HEA’s in the other books in the series, Ev, however is the straight one. Or is he?

This is such a lovely mature coming-out story that filled me with joy. I’ve loved the first two books and this one is even sweeter - if that’s even possible.

Ev is coming to terms with who he really is. He was married to a woman who remains one of his best friends, and is father to a spirited little spitfire who loves her music teacher. Everett develops a crush on said music teacher and that is the catalyst for him to come out to his ex-wife and perhaps even his buddies - although why he is worried about coming out to a host or gay men who love him is anyone's guess.

Watson is the charming and adorkable music teacher who notices his student’s hot dad knowing he is straight doesn’t stop the lusting either!

The relationship starts in secret while Ev gets up the courage to tell all, and I felt Watson was insanely patient with dithering Ev but it all works out in the end, The HEA is so perfect I got cavities just reading it.

There is one truly hilarious NSFW scene that fully had me choking on my coffee. I would love to elaborate, but spoilers, so safe to say, this is a funny one.

It was also a joy to catch up with the other men in the series. I’m just holding out for Ollie’s HEA now.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

Group Review: Band Sinister by K.J. Charles

Sir Philip Rookwood is the disgrace of the county. He’s a rake and an atheist, and the rumours about his hellfire club, the Murder, can only be spoken in whispers. (Orgies. It’s orgies.)

Guy Frisby and his sister Amanda live in rural seclusion after a family scandal. But when Amanda breaks her leg in a riding accident, she’s forced to recuperate at Rookwood Hall, where Sir Philip is hosting the Murder.

Guy rushes to protect her, but the Murder aren’t what he expects. They’re educated, fascinating people, and the notorious Sir Philip turns out to be charming, kind—and dangerously attractive.

In this private space where anything goes, the longings Guy has stifled all his life are impossible to resist...and so is Philip. But all too soon the rural rumour mill threatens both Guy and Amanda. The innocent country gentleman has lost his heart to the bastard baronet—but does he dare lose his reputation too?

4.333 average!

Chelsea - 5 Hearts

Magical. Charles can do no wrong, seriously! Sweet, sexy, and beautifully romantic, this book had me doing nothing for a whole day until I'd completely devoured it.

I've never read a book by Georgette Heyer, but from what I hear people will be very excited to hear Band Sinister was inspired by Heyer’s writing. I obviously can't compare but all I know is every single character in this book was wonderfully crafted and that was KJ Charles and her alone (with the help of editors of course :-P). Once again the Charles writes amazing female characters and Amanda is one of my most favourite female characters ever! I would loooove to see a short story revolving around her love story.

Guy has not admitted his attraction to other men, therefore when Phillip starts revealing truths and demanding honesty, Guy finds his virginity in a somewhat shaky state.

“But, well. Would I like sodomy?”
“That is without a doubt the best question that has ever been asked . English was invented purely so that you could ask that.”

Let's just say I love a good deflowering and the build-up between Philip and Guy was superb. Slowly getting to know Phillip and his Murder was engaging and so much damn fun as well!!

The tension, ridiculously sexy climax and heart melting happily ever after has this book being an all time favourite and will definitely be reread many times in the future.

Adam - 4 Hearts

KJ Charles knocks it out of the park with another fun, sexy, and sweet MM historical romance.

Though they’re neighbours, Frisby siblings and Sir Philip Rookwood don’t mingle. A family scandal, and Sir Philip’s reputation, make any friendship impossible.

That is until Amanda Frisby ends up at recuperating at Rookwood Hall with a broken leg. Her brother, Guy, doesn’t leave Amanda’s side, intent on keeping her safe from Philip and his notorious friends.

But despite their mutual reservations, Guy and Philip can’t help but find each other captivating. In the midst of fields and trees, the country gentleman and the rake fall for each other.

Both have family histories that have made their interactions with society difficult. Philip’s response is a middle-finger to high society and all its expectations.

Guy, on the other hand, struggles between being the upstanding gentleman he’s expected to be, and the freer man he really wants to be. The kind of men Philip and his friends are.

The friends, by the way, were highly entertaining and added to the story.

Slowly, Philip brings Guy out of his uptight shell. What starts off as an uneasy truce becomes a tentative friendship, and then spills into something more.

I loved the progression of their relationship, and how both insisted on mutual respect and agreement before taking things further.

And they definitely set the sheets on fire once they got down to it!

The two actually communicate, which earned them bonus points from me.

And it was sweet to see how Guy and Philip filled the holes in each others’ lives. Both had people who meant to the world to them, Philip’s two childhood friends John and Corvin and Guy’s sister, but for each other they became the one that was just his own.

Overall, I really enjoyed ‘Band Sinister’. The MCs were well-rounded, the romance was sweet, the cast of characters was entertaining, and the HEA was beautiful. I’d love to read Corvin and John’s stories too!

Lost in a Book - 4ish Stars

Whoa! Anyone else have to reread the title page on this one just to make sure it was a KJC book? No murder? No angsty relational and/or time period peril? This is insanely lighthearted compared to her previous writes. It’s practically fit for teenage consumption if you throw a chastity belt on it. (Is that still a thing?) I couldn’t help comparing the feel of Band Sinister to her others and I think the Grinch KJ Charles’ heart has increased in size.

Ok, so I’m a huge fan of KJC whether we are chasing antacids with alcohol just to get through the angst/death or this spoon full of sugar featuring Sir Phillip Rookwood and Guy Frisby. The blurb does a great job setting the stage for this story so let's get this party started.

Rookwood and Frisby dislike each other greatly. It’s more of a my family has had awful interactions with yours and your family has ruined my family type dislike and not really between the two men. Unfortunately during that time period, past family shame is enough to cloud the rest of the generations. Much to Rookwood’s dismay, Frisby’s sister (Amanda) is injured on his property and will be recovering there for at least a fortnight. Guy is devastated about his sister’s injury and beside himself with the idea of staying in the same location as the Murder. Well, he is until the men of the house begin to seem actually human; kind, compassionate, sociable, and spirited.

Frisby becomes aware of Sir Phillip’s preferences and that sets off a sexual awakening long suppressed. Phillip is like a blood hound and is on the trail as soon as Frisby begins to question what he desires. The men get to know each other as Amanda heals and Phillip volunteers to teach Guy in all things pleasure.

There's some heat along the way with the MCs and the added spice of the other men in the house having the propensity to share. Throw in some family drama, town drama, a very lively Amanda, KJC’s trademark humor laced with snark, a HEA, and Band Sinister is an entertaining, low angst read. I have to mention that Amanda is a kick ass female character and I highly enjoyed when she was on page.

It took a bit of a time getting in the groove. Due to the slow start, I liked the second half more than the first. It was another enjoyable read by one of my favorite authors. I think I prefer the Tums and alcohol compared to the low angst sweetness but I can’t wait to read Corvin’s story and see him brought to his knees. I’ll definitely continue on if this is a series. Recommended.

Audiobook Review: Tender Mercies (Men of Lancaster County #2) by Eli Easton

Eddie Graber's dream of a sanctuary for rescued farm animals was about to come true when his partner backed out at the last minute. Now Eddie risks losing the 25-acre property in Lancaster County - and all the hopes he held for it - before the project even gets off the ground. He needs help, he needs money, but most importantly, he needs to rediscover the belief in a higher purpose that brought him here in the first place.

Samuel Miller worked hard to fit into his Amish community despite his clubfoot. But when his father learns Samuel is gay, he is whipped and shunned. With just a few hundred dollars to his name, Samuel responds to an ad for a farmhand and finds himself employed by a city guy who has strange ideas about animals, no clue how to run his small farm, and a gentle heart.

Samuel isn't the only lost soul to serendipitously find his way to Meadow Lake Farm. There's Fred and Ginger, two cows who'd been living in a garage, a gang of sheep, and a little black pig named Benny who might be the key to life, love, money - and even a happily ever after for two castoffs.

Listening Length: 8 hours and 28 minutes
Narrator: Will Tulin

I enjoyed the audiobook narration by Will Tulin. This is the first time I’m listening to his work, and I’d definitely do so again without any worries.

The way readers are introduced to Samuel broke my heart. The abuse by his father made my blood boil. But even sadder was how Samuel knew nothing could be done to change his family’s minds.

But despite those awful circumstances, Samuel has an inner core of strength and resiliency. He doesn’t let his family’s rejection, or his club foot, keep him down for long.

I was rooting for Samuel from the first page!

Eddie has his own struggles with the farm. But he’s determined to make his sanctuary work, even if it costs him both financially and personally.

The two men are brought together in less-than-perfect circumstances, but it’s clear from the beginning that they’re a strong match for each other.

The romance in ‘Tender Mercies’ is a slow-burn. While Eddie and Samuel are attracted to each other from the beginning, it takes a while for them to do anything about it.

Instead, they gradually become friends. Over shared meals and farmwork, the two get to know each other. And eventually, they start leaning on one another for comfort and support.

But underneath that friendship, there’s a lingering sexual tension. When Samuel and Eddie finally give in, it’s a natural extension of the emotional relationship they’ve already built.

I thought it was really sweet how the two filled a whole in each other’s life. For Samuel, Eddie becomes the home he was so desperately looking for. And for Eddie, Samuel becomes his driving force when he thinks about giving up.

Most of the conflict in this book is driven by the struggle to keep the farm sanctuary running. I could have done with less of it, because it overshadowed the romance and unnecessarily slowed the book down.

Even so, I enjoyed ‘Tender Mercies,’ and I was glad to see Samuel and Eddie get their HEA. If you’re looking for a slow read with a sweet and gradual romance, I’d give this book a try!

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.

Review: Out by Cara Dee

“I guess I always figured coming out was something you did for friends and family, and maybe it is, but it’s personal too, you know? The person I was last night is new. I wanna get to know him.”

I had two things on my list when I arrived in Los Angeles. One, track down Henry Bennington, the uncle and guardian of my little brother’s best friend, and tell him to get his ass back to Washington. He needed to do something about his nephew, who was turning into a douchebag. And two, figure out just how non-straight I was. For the past two years, I’d had all these fantasies, and now was the time to explore them, far away from my sleepy little town.

Nowhere on this list did it say, “Get Ty’s uncle into bed and fall for him.” I wasn’t supposed to fall in love with another city either. But between brunch, making new friends, and discovering the man I was meant to be, I lost sight of the future that had once seemed pretty damn vivid. How the hell was I supposed to merge my old life and who I used to be with the new dreams Los Angeles and Henry had awakened in me?

*taps mic*

Hello, dissenting opinion coming your way. This book didn’t work for *me* but there are a TON of other people who are squeeing over it. I had to channel my inner Dory to get through it. Just keep swimming. Since this wasn’t my jam, I swam like a boss to get to the end and came away feeling meh.

Zach, one of the MCs had been raising his brother long before he got custody at age 18. Having to grow up before his time, he is now a 27 year old that’s questioning his sexual identity. Zach decides that he can do this in Los Angeles under the guise of contacting the uncle of his brother’s best-friend(Ty) while he’s there. Ty is acting like a rich brat and Zach wants his uncle to come knock some sense into him. When Zach arrives in L.A. to meet with Ty’s uncle, he was expecting an old, uptight, suited business man. What he got was Henry, rocking his flip flops, cargos, and a drool worthy body. Ty who?

Henry is a 46 year old book store owner that became estranged from his parents after coming out. After the death of his brother and sister-in-law, Henry was awarded full custody of his nephew, Ty. However, for various reasons, Ty lives with his grandparents. Henry desperately wants a relationship with Ty and is grateful for Zach’s intervention.

Soooo, what didn’t work for me?

Zach. Zach didn’t work for me. The book was written strictly in his POV and I didn’t connect with him. He seemed childish most of the time with some maturity splashed in on occasion. There were many situations I had to toss up to his newfound sexual exploration or I’d have a headache. Henry wasn’t all roses either but he had some redeeming qualities that didn’t put me off completely. There was an insta-loveish connection without actually saying the words right away. I’m talking about the stage 10 clinger, no-condoms-needed-I’m-clean-and-I-trust-you-you’re-the-one, fast connection.

What else?

Everything seemed over the top and juvenile for 27 and 46 year old men. After discussing this with a fellow reader, apparently these situations were supposed to be funny. But, to me they fell flat. As a pancake. I may have appreciated the “humor” more if I had Henry’s POV where not everything was so dramatic. Zach wanted to be seen as a grown man that could make his own decisions; but that was contradictory to his thoughts, words, actions and reactions to others.

Another point of frustration was the writing style. We were told everything. Inferencing is a thing. But I felt like I sat through a 299 page lecture on insta-love, brunch and the L.A. scene. Telling, not showing + Zach = Sadface

Just Keep Swimming.

There were some odd additions to the story like Joseph, the return of Martin’s ex, and a situation at the corner store that didn’t add anything except more OTT drama IMO. By time I hit the Martin’s ex debacle, I was already over it and the supposed humor was flyin’ right by me.

Just Keep Swimming.

What worked for me?
I loved Martin “the queen” and Zach’s grandmother, Nan. They were both fun characters. Martin was fierce and had a great sense of humor. Sometimes OTT works and other times it doesn’t. Martin, Nan and their over the topness worked for me. Nan is everything I hope to be in 50 years; snarky, completely inappropriate, forever young, and loads of unconditional love to offer.

I also liked the premise that an older (not a teen) male decides to explore the questions he has about his sexuality instead of just sticking with the status quo of the previous 27 years. IMO, this story could have held up on that plot point alone without the minor role the Ty/Henry storyline ended up playing.

I wish I felt more of a connection. I also wish there was a dual POV to lessen the blow of Zach’s personality. Zach found answers about his sexuality and he got his HEA with Henry. *shrug* I’d recommend this book based on the fact that I’m in the minority with my feels and hope it’s a different reading experience for you.

Trivia Question: Name the novella set during a circus & the two protagonists have gun fetishes as well as unforgettable names. 20 pts

Random winner will be chosen 11/22. I'll be traveling all will so I will try to have winners notified no later than 6 pm EST.

Review: Undaunted by Devin Harnois

A warrior’s broken soul.
A vampire’s kind heart.

Kelas Vartorvi escaped from one vampire only to find himself bound to another. Roshan saved his life and honor demands Kelas stays by his side until he repays the debt.

Roshan takes his broody new werewolf bodyguard in stride. Slowly, his relentless good nature begins to break down Kelas’s walls.

And their tentative friendship becomes something more.

An unexpected visitor from Roshan’s past throws them into a political plot and gives Kelas a chance for revenge. But are the gods blessing Kelas, or asking for a sacrifice?

Content warnings: Contains slavery, violence, body control, bottom shaming, misogyny, and rape mentioned in backstory. All sex between the heroes is clearly consensual.

“A warrior’s broken soul.
A vampire’s kind heart.”

Doesn’t that sound intriguing? I’m really glad I finally pulled the trigger and cracked this one open. The blurb is short and sweet but the story is so much more. Before I continue, please be aware: “Content warnings: Contains slavery, violence, body control, bottom shaming, misogyny, and rape mentioned in backstory.” This was a gruesome story and along with the listed warnings, there was necromancy which adds a whole other level to body control.

You’re still here?

If all those warnings didn’t send you running for the hills, pull up a chair and let’s get this party started.

Kelas Vartorvi was a warrior for his people until the Vampire’s took over his city and killed everyone they couldn’t use. Kelas was very proficient as a warrior which led to his capture, being turned into a werewolf (a Hound), and forced into slavery for the Master Vampire, Zoja. With Zoja forcing a blood bond, she is able to control Kelas’ body and he became her “sword.” He was forced to live as a dog, kill at her command, and be raped at her hands. For years he endured until he found a way to escape. He was on the run for months staying one step ahead of the trackers Zoja sent his way until he was outnumbered and poisoned. Just when he thinks it’s over and that he’ll be brought back and tortured, he’s saved by an unlikely hero.

Roshan is a rogue vampire that was abandoned by his sire shortly after being attacked and changed into a vampire. He embraces life and has built a family of friends around him. Roshan is light, sarcastic and caring. He is also a hell of a fighter, a mercenary, and is able to save Kelas from the attack.

Roshan being a vampire represents everything Kelas hates. He finally freed himself from Zoja and now owes Roshan a life debt as a payment for saving his life. Begrudgingly, Kelas agrees to stay with the group until he saves Roshan’s life. Kelas is like one of those abused and terrified animals you see at shelters. The ones that are heartbreakingly skittish and can’t bear to be touched. He was robbed of his pride, dignity, his name, consent, humanity, and choices on his physical actions. Slowly, Roshan earned his trust. Each day he showed Kelas that ”what you were didn’t determine who you were.” That he wasn’t a monster.

Their journey as mercenaries takes them all over the lands, bringing them closer together until one job dangles the carrot of revenge. They have an opportunity to come face to face with Zoja and Kelas is eager to follow this path through, knowing that she will always be looking for him. Getting to the point of revenge takes trust and great sacrifice for both Kelas and Roshan. They have parts to play and can’t show their hand too early. Each step the group took brought them closer to Zoja, the castle of Kelas’ enslavement, and the battle that would take place. Their time at the castle was tense, engaging and eventually very gruesome. There were a lot of moving pieces and the prior world building supported them well.

Roshan and Kelas are opposites that fit. Their love is beautiful and transparent in each interaction. Roshan slowly brought Kelas back to life. But, Kelas feels “broken.” He needs to face his demons. He needs to face the voices in his head that tell him he’s nothing but a worthless Hound.

“I’m a pet, an animal. Not a person. Not someone you love. I’m a creature you lust after, one you can make do whatever you want. I’m a toy.”

This wasn’t a case of insta-love. They were slow to realize their attraction and as their feelings grew, love bloomed bright. With Kelas’ past, trust had to be the foundation before anything else was added and the author did a great job of making that a realization. There wasn’t a lot of sex in the book but each time it took place held purpose. It furthered the believability of their connection and the trust built between them. They got their HEA but it wasn’t without hardship, heartbreak, and a need for healing.

Was it perfect? No. Did I have to suspend reality? Yes, but that is to be expected with a paranormal/ fantasy romance. The time period was a bit confusing and I still don’t know if it was a historical with its talk of coin, carriages, and horses or in modern time with the way each character spoke. It was contradictory and pulled me out of the story a few times. Also, this was very heavy in gods talk. There are rites, rituals, thanking ceremonies, prayers, alters, statues, etc… The gods are mentioned in the blurb and are everywhere throughout. I could have done without all that but it didn’t ruin the book for me. Another unique aspect of this story was the feel; It has a vintage werewolf and/or vampire feel which worked for the heavy elements present.

I enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it to fans of paranormal romance.

“Oh, Kel.” Roshan pressed their hands together. “You store up reasons to hate yourself, and I…” Roshan laughed, sad and sweet and surprised all at once. “I store up reasons to love you.”

Trivia Question: Name the book where the 2 MC’s share a birthday and are reincarnated from a couple who died in a plane crash. 15 pts

Random winner will be chosen at (or around) Noon EST 11/15.

Tag Team Review: Wheels Up (Out of Uniform #4) by Annabeth Albert

Their love is forbidden, but their hearts aren't listening to rules and regulations.

Lieutenant Dustin Strauss is a reformed man. No longer a twentysomething hell-raiser, he's his SEAL team's new XO-and a man with a secret. Or seven. He's kept his bisexual identity under wraps for years, along with his kinky side and a fondness for the military-themed semianonymous hookup website Joe4Joe. His latest chat buddy is more than a sexy online distraction-they're taking their very not-safe-for-work relationship into real time.

Petty Officer Wes Lowe has a smart mouth, a take-charge attitude and an uncanny ability for making things go boom. The life of an enlisted man isn't always enough to satisfy him, but one wild, no-questions-asked weekend with his online love comes close. When a transfer order comes in, Wes feels ready and centered. He'll make a good impression on his new SEAL team and keep his growing feelings for Dustin on the down low.

But as they log more time online and some very real emotions surface, Dustin and Wes struggle to pretend they're just a harmless fling. And when his commander introduces Dustin to his team's newest member, they're in for the shock of a lifetime...and a crushing disappointment: their difference in ranks means even a friendship without sexual contact could end their navy careers for good.

With their hearts on the line, Dustin and Wes may not survive their next mission, let alone find a way toward a future together.

Averaged!

Adam - 3 Hearts

After meeting Dustin in book 2, I couldn’t wait to get his story. I was completely won over by how nonchalant Dustin was about his little brother and his best friend dating.

It turns out that Dustin has two big secrets - he’s bisexual, and he gets off on being tied up and bossed around. And he’s in love with his subordinate.

Wes Lowe is a new addition to the series. Wes and Dustin met on a hookup app, where Wes slowly brought Dustin out of his shell and got him comfortable with his kinks. The two spend a lot of time video chatting, but Dustin is skittish about meeting in person.

But from the moment that Dustin builds up the courage and meets Wes in person, the two just click. They’re hot in bed, and they clearly have an emotional connection too.

However, things quickly go downhill once Wes is transferred to Dustin’s SEAL team.

While I liked the set-up of the story, I found it difficult to focus on the book after that initial meeting between the two. I thought that the “voices” of the two men were just really similar, and so I had to keep pausing to remember who was who.

Also, I found myself annoyed by Dustin’s angst over coming out, given that his family had already accepted his younger gay brother. It just seemed like he was putting himself through unnecessary stress.

But I’m a sucker for a good coworkers-to-lovers story, especially when there’s a forbidden element, so it didn’t take me too long to become invested in Wes and Dustin’s tale.

Though they know it breaks every rule, Dustin and Wes just can’t stay away from each other. And it’s not just the physical attraction that keeps pulling them back together.

After months of chatting online, the two became each other’s best friend. For Dustin, Wes is the safety and acceptance he’s spent years looking for. And for Wes, Dustin gives him the calm and quiet he needs.

They’re perfectly matched for each other.

And of course, the hot chemistry does help. Reading about Dustin, the big gruff lieutenant SEAL, submitting to Wes, his younger and physically-smaller subordinate was incredibly hot.

Eventually, the ish hits the fan, forcing the two men to figure out what they’re willing to give up to be together. I thought the resolution was very sweet, with the appropriate grand gestures and a perfect HEA.

While it took me awhile to get into this book, I ended up enjoying Dustin and Wes’ love story!

SheReadsALot - 4.5 Hearts

I'm still wearing a WTF face after finishing Wheels Up. And not for the reasons you might think.

This is my favorite of the Out of Uniform series (so far). So...what's the face for?

See, I wasn't expecting it. Hence me being perplexed at how much I enjoyed this story and leading men. I didn't think any character would have knocked Dylan off of my pedestal of #1. Looks like Dustin just did. At least, I'm keeping it in the family. I love the Strauss brothers!

I couldn't get into the beginning of Wheels Up. I liked the setup, people who have a connection online who finally take a chance and meet in real life. But something about the beginning, had me going through the motions. I continued and then somewhere in the middle it finally clicked, I really liked the MC's.

Standalone Wheels Up features Dustin, the older brother of At Attention's lead Dylan, is a 32 year old lieutenant who is coming to terms with his sexuality and finally admitting to himself that he is bisexual. He's still figuring things out with himself and not sharing with anyone including his best friend or brother. He worked himself up to seeking someone to jerk off with on a gay military hookup app. And he ends up befriending a guy. Other than sharing aliases, neither one share what department of the armed forces they serve in. They just bond through shared kinks and form something more than a jerk off buddy. After months of interactions and cyber hookups, they meet in person. And the chemistry they share only blossoms. But it was supposed to be a one night stand...

Until Dustin's jerk off pal becomes his subordinate the next month due to a transfer. Younger, semi out Petty Officer Wes is a shock to Dustin's system. And it's a shock for Wes himself. Wes has his own shit to deal with as he has a sick sibling that rocks him to his core. The camaraderie with Dustin, though it is forbidden the moment he became Dustin's subordinate, helps get Wes through the day.

The bond between both men is present from the beginning hookup to the San Diego naval base. And reading them try to fight and deny it is what finally pulled me in.

The sexual chemistry is undeniable. Dustin's 6' 4" and a walking and talking SEAL poster boy. But in the bedroom, he's submissive with a penchant for ass play. And has a problem coming to terms with needing to have someone dominating him. Wes fills that role perfectly. Wes is a sexy care taking dominant (my fave!) The kink is mild D/s with some bondage. If kink isn't your fave to read, I think it is light enough to be tolerated. Big Guy Bottoming SCORE! *coughs*

The sex was not on every page though it starts off as a sexual relationship. It was a slow build into something more and each sexual contact has an emotional aspect that I dug, each act meaningful since they have to go through some many hoops to keep their secret.

There is some angst, Dustin dealing with his bisexuality and his perception of what his family and friends will think, he's lived the lie as a ladies man for so long it's all he knows. and Wes has his family crisis to deal with. The forbidden love just added another layer on a difficult setup.

But it worked.

And somewhere around 50-60%, I was all in and invested on seeing how these would ever get a chance to be together. I loved the angsty moments so much.

The ending is perfect for the main characters, not overly sweet and schmoop without consequences. It's realistic and they both have to put in work for it. You can give me any romance where their HEA isn't handed to them on a silver platter and you will have one enthralled reader on your hands.

As I was with Wheels Up.

Recommended to fans of loners who finally get their chance at a HEA, sexual exploration, and military men! 

Review: Dirty Mind by Roe Horvat

Alexander Popescu is a university lecturer in a quiet German town. He’s a respectable man in his thirties who stays fit, has a decent career and travels alone—his only vice is an occasional greasy meal. And beer. And violent computer games. Nobody has to know about the other Alex—the acclaimed porn writer. His ingenious erotic fantasies earn him good money and keep his capricious mind harmlessly entertained.

When his young friend and protégé Christian transfers to Freiburg for medical school, Alex is overjoyed…and terrified that Christian will find out about Alex’s indecent alter ego. The time they spend together, as lovely as it is, could overturn Alex’s carefully balanced life. Suddenly, the writing is not good enough, his hair seems to be thinning, his careful hookups leave him unfulfilled, and his dreams are haunted by the innocent young man he’s vowed to protect.

However, Christian is not a boy anymore. He’s a grown man of twenty-one, clever and deadly attractive. And he’s hiding some secrets of his own.

Apparently I'm fashionable late to the squeeing party for this author. I haven't read their first book, but I'll be fixing that sooner rather than later. I liked this book and enjoyed it more so as the second half came along with its sweet and sexy friends to lovers journey.

Alex and Christian (aka Squirrel) met in Spain three years prior to this story unfolding. Alex stepped up at a bar and saved Christian from being the 18 year old prey to all of the lions that were out on the hunt. Alex pretended to be Christian’s boyfriend and from there they formed a deep bond of friendship. Christian was looking for a mentor and with the 12 year age difference between them, Alex was the perfect candidate. Living in different parts of Germany, they exchanged emails, phone calls, and even visits over the three years.

Alex was a university lecturer by day and a porn romance novel writer by night. “I was high-maintenance and an intellectual snob. That was why I mostly lived out my fantasies through my writing.” Alex writes under a pen name and only his best friend knows what he writes. Besides the few friends he has, Alex was very lonely until Christian transfers to a medical school where he lives.

We don’t get inside Christian’s head outside of the inferences we gather through Alex’s thoughts and observations. Christian is very smart and responsible. He adores Alex and you can tell he craves any time Alex is willing to give him. He has hero worship going on and wants to know more about the tight lipped Alex. Christian is also a virgin at 21. He has a very controlling mother who scheduled every minute of his day which left little time for the one hand job and few make out sessions he had under his belt.

I loved Alex and Christian together as friends and then as lovers. Unfortunately, Alex suffered from a very common medical condition where his head is firmly lodged up his ass for more than half of the book. Alex was soooooo noble with his mentor/"brotherly" role. He fought very hard for so long against his feelings and doing the "right" thing that it got in his way. Their relationship was one sided for the first half. It was such a unique dynamic because Alex was there to be and do anything for Christian and all Christian really wanted was for Alex to be himself and give himself. Alex was caught up on their 12 year age difference which wasn’t a problem to Christian. Their characters were written in a way where Christian seemed to be the “adult” and more sensible one. When the head/ass removal surgery was finally complete, it was game ON.

There was a lot of heat throughout. The heat in the first half came from the scenes Alex was writing for his novels and his many dreams. Those didn’t do anything for me but I understand that it was necessary to show his style as a writer and how love translates through sex. I do wish the sex frequency was more balanced and not so heavy on the dream and novel scene front; The MCs got the short end of the stick in that department. Their first time together, I think legit fireworks shot out of my kindle. The tension and heartbreaking build up had me on the edge of my seat begging them to make a move.

“There was a moment of stillness. Neither of us spoke or moved, yet our breathing seemed as loud as screams.”

Unf!

Alex really steps it up when he decides to give himself to Christian. It was almost the equivalent of a boombox playing a love song outside your window.

*swoon*

I'm a big fan of the secondary characters, Dieter and Mattias. Hopefully Mattias gets a story next with Simon. *hint hint* I even liked Christian's crazy mother because although she was a hot mess of rigid control, she had the best of intentions and loved him.

I wish there was more insight into Christian through his POV to “see” his range of moods. I would have enjoyed his thoughts when he seemed more melancholy instead of his always eager and full of life persona. All in all, I liked this book and loved the 2nd half. I would definitely recommend it and will be on the lookout for more from Roe Horvat.

"I love this love. It’s guilty; it’s unavoidable. Mine. The only thing worth anything, and it’s mine."

A copy provided for an honest review.

Review: Falling for Him by C.L. Mustafic

Doctor Gavin Addison’s marriage didn’t end on the friendliest of terms, and his estranged wife’s continual harassment has the local police visiting his home so often they’ve started calling him “the doc.” One of those cops, Officer Lex Turner, has a crush on the handsome doc, even though he knows there’s no chance the doc would ever consider dating a man.

A chance encounter on a crowded dance floor ends with both men in the same bed with the same woman—but with questionable results. When the doc wants to try that again, Lex becomes more involved than he’d dreamed possible as he helps his new friend navigate the kinkier side of sex. Knowing it’s just sex for Gavin, Lex finds it hard to keep his feelings hidden. But when Gavin finally figures out he has feelings for Lex that go beyond what a guy should feel for his buddy, will he let Lex convince him to take a chance with him—even if it turns both their lives upside down?

I know my updates prolly lead people to believe that I hated this book. I didn't. I have two main problems with it and a few quibbles which I will get to in a minute, but for a first book it's really not bad. The plot is straightforward slice of life friends to lovers, one of whom discovers he's bisexual. On paper it sounded like it was meant for me.

Gavin is in the midst of a divorce and his soon to be ex-wife is a crazy ex which is how he meets Officer Lex Turner. I'm not a fan of the crazy ex-girlfriend plot device in general and it went on far too long for my tastes.

Furthermore, it leaks like a sieve. Not to jump too far off the diving board but she's pretty much always been a bitch on wheels and Gavin just fooled himself into believing she's misunderstood or some such nonsense. But this level of unhinged? I didn't buy that she could stalk and harass him for months on end without him taking more drastic measures to protect himself, like hiring a private investigator to get her prosecuted sooner or installing a security system or maybe acquiring a guard dog. She's a menace and her antics escalate to ridiculous levels taking her from villainous to caricaturish quicker than you can say Ice Queen. Her motivations for harassing Gavin in the first place are thin and most of this struck me as added drama for added drama's sake which these two did not need, but I'll come back to that.

Now Gavin... there's a part of me that pities him and part of me that wanted to nut punch him. He's wishy washy, temperamental and milquetoastish, a trifecta I'm not crazy about. His character and the relationship altogether felt very m/f to me with the coquettishness, abundant giggling and the crying.

I'm pretty sympathetic to a wide range of human emotions and I know everyone needs a good cry once in awhile especially when there are hurt feels but MOTHER OF GOD! I know. I know. I sound hella bitchy when I say that but at some point I thought he'd realize it's not a productive use of time. Of course he didn't and reading about Gavin's mantears and hurt feels wore me out.

His relationship with Lex is fraught with hurdles. One too many hurdles if you ask me. Gavin wends up in a threesome with Lex and this is how their relationship begins. So be forewarned m/f sex occurs on page. Being a fan of the ménage I found these scenes possibly the hottest of them all. Through these interludes Gavin realizes he's attracted to Lex. Then the troubles began. Communication issues, misunderstandings, Lex is not out at work, the crazy ex again and again, Gavin's mother turns out to be a bigot which led to more dramatics that didn't add up for me which led to yet another big misunderstanding and so on and so forth. So many external dramatics that were unnecessary. They had enough to deal with within their relationship, so all the external kerfuffles were superfluous and skirted the soap opera line.

I could go into all the specifics of why some of these things seemed fabricated, but I think it can all be summed up by saying this book is trying too hard. I completely understand the desire to be thorough as someone who's quite verbose herself. I also appreciate the lure of dramatics to keep the pace uptempo but sometimes less is more. Many of the conversations became monotonous, didactic and even preachy at times. There are details upon details of every single minute of Gavin and Lex's lives that killed the pace. Making it tighter would've gone a long way towards making it a more successful read for me.

There are sweet and heartfelt moments between them and through the dual POVs it's clear they both care for the other and want to make it work. The author did a good job of fleshing out these characters as well as some of the secondary ones. The sexual chemistry is there, though I found some of the sex scenes somewhat awkward.

I have read, and quite liked, the short story by this author so I think much of this is firstbookitis. I would read something else by her and I would encourage anyone interested to go for it. If you like Gavin I think the read will be more successful for you than it was for me.

A review copy was provided.