In the Stacks

Shield of the Dragon by Megan Derr

If the aftermath of destroying two powerful syndicates and joining league with the last person he expected, all Ken wants is a chance to catch his breath, and maybe regain the attention of the man who said he wanted Ken as more than just a Steward but now seems to have lost interest. But every other day bring a new crop of people wanting to kill them, and it’s only a matter of time before they succeed.

All Amr wants is time—time to move his clan and settle them into their new home, time with the dragon he never thought he’d own, and most of all he wants time for his Steward, to see the man rest and recover and stop getting himself almost killed every week. He wouldn’t mind a chance to rekindle their fragile relationship either.

Diamond wants a life that feels worth living. The one he left behind wasn’t all that great, but it beat waking up to the nasty results of a curse that should have killed him and working as a hitman for the Cambry Syndicate. Then he goes to fetch someone for his boss, and gets dragged even deeper into the strange paranormal world he’s still learning to call home.

 

Magic & Mayhem anthology

Everyone deserves to see themselves in stories, to see themselves get a happy ending. For the past few years, GRNW has helped to see those stories reach more of the LGBTQ community, and gain traction is libraries and beyond.

Furthering that goal is this collection of fiction and essays, including information on how to get books in libraries, letters from authors, why positive and happy queer books are so important, and short stories about tattooists, soldiers, mages, and cyborgs that span the LGBTQ spectrum.

 

 

On Wings of Thunder by MD Grimm

Trystan is an unchosen angel—shunned by society, bullied, and without a future. In a hidden well, Trystan discovers a carving of a dragon, who were once the commanders of demons and now believed extinct. But Trystan learns the carving doesn’t depict an ordinary dragon. Stories tell that millennia ago, the great dragon Asagoroth and his demon army nearly conquered the three realms but was killed by the five elders. The powerful angels combined their life forces to cast a spell, sacrificing their lives.

But history is full of falsehoods. The five elders only managed to imprison the dragon, and Asagoroth had cast his own spell—one of releasement. It only needs the blood of an angel to liberate him from his cage….
Asagoroth, enemy of angels, conqueror of realms, is free. But even as the angels prepare for war, the great dragon surprises them with an ultimatum: hand over the angel who awakened him or face annihilation.

Note: Dragons… that is all.

 

Shameless by Gina L. Maxwell

People say I’m shameless. They’re right.

I like my sex dirty. It takes a hell of a lot to tilt my moral compass, and I always follow when it’s pointing at something I want. That goes double when it points straight at the one girl in all of Chicago who’s not dying for a piece of me.

She’s all I can think about, and that’s a problem, because she wants nothing to do with me. But I’ve seen her deepest secrets, her darkest fantasies, and they match mine to a fucking T.

I want her. Bad.

Now I need to show her how good it can feel…to be shameless.

Note: I have a thing for bad boy jerks. *shrugs*

 

Monster Prick by Kendall Ryan

Over my dead body.

That’s what I told Gracie when she informed me of her plan to pick some random guy she met online to get rid of her pesky virginity.

If anyone is touching her, it’s going to be me.

I shouldn’t even be considering it, but I can’t get it out of my head: her, under me, begging me.

Note: I’ve mentioned my weakness for bad boys, yeah?

 

Killer Mate by Ella Drake

Tee Bronson doesn’t trust outsiders. Never has. Now the Scoriah are on the run from the Nex, a secretive black-ops unit, and trust isn’t even in his vocabulary. Except he needs help to board a military vessel to free one of his brothers. The only human in the universe that he’s sure isn’t Nex is Malweather Hunter, his former lover. Problem is, last time Tee saw Mal, he killed him.

If there’s one thing a former bounty hunting cyborg should avoid, it’s the alien who turned him inside out, left him for dead, and ruined his career. Even reminded that he’s homeless, broke, and bitter, Mal can’t resist the reason for it all. Tee makes his cold body run hot. Besides, if anyone’s going to kill Tee, it’s going to be him. The Nex will just have to wait their turn to get their hands on his lover’s enticing neck.

Note: I blame Lexi… also my love for smutty sci-fi. This book is the fifth in a series but doesn’t have to be read in order.

Widdershins by Jordan L. Hawk

A reclusive scholar. A private detective. And a book of spells that could destroy the world.

Love is dangerous. Ever since the tragic death of the friend he adored, Percival Endicott Whyborne has ruthlessly suppressed any desire for another man. Instead, he spends his days studying dead languages at the museum where he works. So when handsome ex-Pinkerton Griffin Flaherty approaches him to translate a mysterious book, Whyborne wants to finish the job and get rid of the detective as quickly as possible.

Griffin left the Pinkertons after the death of his partner. Now in business for himself, he must investigate the murder of a wealthy young man. His only clue: an encrypted book that once belonged to the victim.

As the investigation draws them closer, Griffin’s rakish charm threatens to shatter Whyborne’s iron control. But when they uncover evidence of a powerful cult determined to rule the world, Whyborne must choose: to remain safely alone, or to risk everything for the man he loves.

Note: I might be the only person in the world who hasn’t read this series yet.

 

Soulseeker by JC Owens

A prince imprisoned by duty, a horse lord sworn to find the soulseeker…

Prince Rian is desperate to escape his abusive and tyrannical brother, Arran, the king of Rashma, and save those he loves from his brother’s madness. But after recapturing Rian, the king is taking no chances when he forces the prince back to his duties as general. Arran has hired the Hawks, a group of hardened Zala mercenaries renowned for their battle prowess and skill with horses, to watch the prince. Broken and forced to submit, Rian endures these new bodyguards he knows are spies loyal to his manipulative brother. But Rian has a secret about to be uncovered. At night, when his mental barriers are lowered, he is guarded by the wraith of his dead twin. He can’t hide the wraith from Hamon, the powerful leader of the Hawks who tangles all the emotions within Rian and makes him believe he just might be worthy of love.

When Hamon agreed to guard the prince, he believed it would be a simple task…and allow the Zala to gather information on the expanding kingdom of Rashma. But after witnessing the prince’s unique powers, he suspects Rian might be one of the legendary soulseekers, despite the fact that Rian is not of the Zala and a soulseeker hasn’t been seen in decades… But more than that, he finds himself fascinated and attracted to the prince. Soon he begins to suspect the king has lied about the prince from the very beginning. Yet, how can he convince Rian he’s the true soulseeker and bring him safely to where he’s needed most…

Note: JC Owens is an autobuy for me. I can hardly wait to dive into this book!

 

Bitten By Mistake by Annabelle Jacobs

From animosity to searing passion in a lunar cycle… but can their bond survive?
Wolf shifter Nathan Kohl’s pack is his whole life. Arrogant and handsome, he avoids commitment to anything or anyone outside of his pack. He works hard, plays hard, and pursues humans as lovers because there’s little to no chance of him forming a permanent bond. However, when Jared Taylor comes into Nathan’s life, every rule is broken.
After a bad experience, Jared vowed to never get involved with another shifter, no matter how much they got under his skin. Despite being physically attracted to Nathan, who’s all kinds of hot, Jared only sees an arrogant, domineering bastard.
A disastrous case of mistaken identity throws Nathan and Jared together until the next full moon. Forced to spend the next twenty-eight days in close proximity, they can no longer ignore the powerful attraction between them. Passion ignites, and their relationship takes a turn neither of them wanted.
But when the full moon comes, everything might change again

Captive by Jex Lane

Matthew Callahan has spent seven years struggling against the insatiable hunger for blood consuming him. Unable to stop the vampire inside from preying on humans, he keeps himself confined to a lonely existence.

Everything changes the night he is lured into a trap and taken prisoner by High Lord General Tarrick—a seductive incubus who feeds off sexual energy. Forced into the middle of a war between vampires and incubi, Matthew is used as a weapon against his own kind. Although he’s desperate for freedom, he is unable to deny the burning desire drawing him to the incubus general he now calls Master.

 

Kestrel’s Talon by Bey Deckard

Following the Prentish/Nemarri war, Kes is rejected by his homeland under the guise of religious purity laws. Though he’s spared execution, the proud Nemarri’s fate is only marginally more merciful than death when he is sold into sexual slavery at a prosperous pleasure house.

Despite his stoic endurance, Kes knows he’s reaching his breaking point, but there is nothing he can do—there is no path to freedom in the Holy Prentish Empire, only a lifetime of humiliating servitude.

That is, until a beautiful young slave and his formidable master approach Kes in the marketplace and make an astonishing offer to take him home with them. The only problem: “home” is the accursed Horthmont Castle from the scare-stories of Kes’s childhood.

Thrown into a world of living myth, powerful magic, and ancient gods, Kes learns the secrets kept hidden by Horthmont’s thick blackstone walls. There he discovers something he thought he’d never know again: hope for the future.

 

Mate Call by Amber Kell

King Zeir had it all, a prosperous kingdom, a fated mate and the love of his people. But when his mate dies he goes half mad with grief and transforms into his dragon form. Unable to get past his sorrow, he pines for the love he never fully knew.

Colton Lanx has known nothing but travel. His parents flew from planet to planet, never settling down. Becoming a navigator was an easy choice to make until an error by his captain forced him down to the planet Dragait.
Two men joined by destiny have to overcome their past if they wish to build a future together.

 

Listen to Me by Kristen Proby

Seduction is quickly becoming the hottest new restaurant in Portland, and Addison Wade is proud to claim 1/5 of the credit. She’s determined to make it a success and can’t think of a better way to bring in new customers than live music. But when former rock star Jake Keller swaggers through the doors to apply for the weekend gig, she knows she’s in trouble. Addie instantly recognizes him—his posters were plastered all over her bedroom walls in high school—he’s all bad boy…exactly her type and exactly what she doesn’t need.

Jake Keller walked away from the limelight five years ago and yearns to return to what’s always driven him: the music. If he gets to work for a smart-mouthed, funny-as-hell bombshell, all the better. But talking Addie into giving him the job is far easier than persuading her that he wants more than a romp in her bed. Just when she begins to drop her walls, Jake’s past finally catches up with him.

Will Addie be torn apart once again or will Jake be able to convince her to drown out her doubts and listen to her heart?

 

Winter’s Heat by Ruby Nox

Omega wolf Simon Malone never thought he’d wake up in the back of a car, bonded to an alpha. And certainly not one as strong-willed and carefree as this one. Now, with a betrothal rapidly approaching, Simon must find a way to break the bond before he loses what little life he has. If he can’t, who knows what lengths this rich alpha will go to. There’s just one problem—Simon can’t quite tear his eyes—and heart—away from sinfully sexy Cody Adams.

All alpha wolf Cody Adams wanted was one glorious week of freedom before his official bonding to a high class omega. A last hurrah before taking on the responsibilities on his status and resigning himself to a mundane life of perfunctory sex and duties. Now, with one week to rid himself of this low bred wolf, Cody must reign in his temper and his heart before he does something else he regrets—like falling in love. It doesn’t help that Cody’s never seen an omega as captivating as Simon. And when Simon turns out to be pregnant, things get even more complicated.

 

The False Prince by Jennifer A Nielsen

In a discontent kingdom, civil war is brewing. To unify the divided people, Conner, a nobleman of the court, devises a cunning plan to find an impersonator of the king’s long-lost son and install him as a puppet prince. Four orphans are recruited to compete for the role, including a defiant boy named Sage. Sage knows that Conner’s motives are more than questionable, yet his life balances on a sword’s point—he must be chosen to play the prince or he will certainly be killed. But Sage’s rivals have their own agendas as well.

As Sage moves from a rundown orphanage to Conner’s sumptuous palace, layer upon layer of treachery and deceit unfold, until finally, a truth is revealed that, in the end, may very well prove more dangerous than all of the lies taken together.

An extraordinary adventure filled with danger and action, lies and deadly truths that will have readers clinging to the edge of their seats.

In the Stacks

It’s storming outside and when it storms like this, I like to read. A lot. Which also means I sort of binge on book purchases… here’s what I’ve added to my TBR this week

Phoenix Reborn by J.D. Tyler

Wolf shifter and Firewalker Phoenix “Nix” Monroe has finally met his ultimate Bondmate—Alpha Pack nurse Noah Brooks. Unable to accept his own sexual identity, Nix rejects Noah despite the intense attraction he feels towards him.

By the time Nix realizes he has cast aside the love of his life, it may be too late to save Noah from a terrifying enemy…

Notes: Releases March 15th. This book is numbered 7.5 in part of a series, and I suggest you read the series in order.

Taking Shots by Toni Aleo

No matter how hard she tries, Elleanor Fisher never thinks she’s good enough, from her job to her weight to her love life. After enduring years of abuse at the hands of an ex-boyfriend, Elli has been drifting through life in a daze. Until, that is, she meets Shea Adler on a promotional shoot for the NHL’s Nashville Assassins. Before Elli knows what’s happening, the gorgeous Shea breaks the ice and shatters her world.

A brilliant athlete inside the rink, Shea Adler is tired of the life he’s living outside of it: the women, the money, the drinking. But everything changes when he meets Elli. After laying eyes on this feisty, witty, beautiful woman, he feels like he’s just taken the hardest hit of his life. No matter how skeptical she is, Shea knows they are meant to be together—if only he can convince Elli to put her insecurities aside before she misses out on a shot at love.

Notes: No joke, I bought this because the series title is The Assassins. I know nothing about hockey.

 

Three by RJ Scott

Is this just hot sex, or can two become three?

Mark is finding his way in life after six years in the army. He’s always wanted to write scripts for TV, and for one show in particular, Tomorrow’s Game.

Half in lust already with the lead actor Zach, he is shocked when he ends up in Zach’s bed and finds out that Zach’s co-star Rob is part of the package.

Notes: RJ Scott and a ménage… need I say more?

Broken Soldier by Jamie Lynn Miller

Sergeant Connor Finley and Sergeant Shawn Weller are dedicated soldiers working covert ops for Shadow Unit — a joint UK/US anti-terrorism task force.

Partners in the field and out, they had been through hell together for the last four years and made it through standing side by side. But when their latest undercover op to bring down an arms dealer plunges them into a world of drugs, sex and violence, Shawn must literally get in bed with the enemy in order to complete the mission. And Connor is forced to watch, helpless, as his partner is broken into pieces.

Will love be enough to put them both back together or will this be their final mission?
WARNING: Contains scenes of drug use, graphic sex and realistic situations

Notes: I love this author and the whole commando vibe here. I’m in.

 

The 13th Hex by Jordan L. Hawk

Romance. Magic.
Murder.

Dominic Kopecky dreamed of becoming a member of New York’s Metropolitan Witch Police—a dream dashed when he failed the test for magical aptitude. Now he spends his days drawing the hexes the MWP relies on for their investigations.

But when a murder by patent hex brings crow familiar Rook to his desk, Dominic can’t resist the chance to experience magic. And as the heat grows between Dominic and Rook, so does the danger. Because the case has been declared closed—and someone is willing to kill to keep it that way.

Notes: Releases April 5th. This is a second edition (my first time reading it) and the first in a series.

 

Legal Heat by Sarah Castille

Katy Sinclair made it to the brink of partnership at her high-powered law firm with hard work, dogged determination, and the ruthless self-discipline to cultivate a conservative public image. But when she follows an evasive witness into a sex club, she can’t deny herself a red-hot sexual encounter with the seductive bartender who sets her body on fire. She’s sure no one will ever know about her indiscretion—until she walks into the courtroom to find her dirty little secret is the opposing counsel in the most important case of her career.

As the managing partner in a struggling law firm, hot-shot attorney Mark Richards can’t afford any mistakes that might cost him his biggest client. Like getting involved with his beautiful, determined opponent—the mystery woman he hasn’t been able to forget. But when Katy’s quest for justice leads to death threats, Mark will sacrifice everything to protect her.

Now they’re risking their hearts…and their lives…in a race to catch a killer. Little do they know, the greatest danger lies closer to home.

Warning: The book contains explicit sex, light bondage, violence, murder, steamy shenanigans in the courtroom, naughty sexytimes in the boardroom, and an exceptionally hot hero with a versatile tie. Any objections will be overruled.

Notes: I love this author and I just found out a #2.5 is coming soon, so I want to read the whole series first.

 

Turncoat by Megan Derr

Dixie is a man adrift, picking away at the evildoings of the Grand Order of Defenders and the DeVine Corporation wherever he’s able. But none of it is what he really wants, and what he wants is out of reach.

Then a notorious thief crosses his path, a man with abilities that might make all the difference. With his help, Dixie can at long last return to face the people that destroyed his whole world and return that destruction tenfold.

Notes: Megan Derr is it. The first book in this series, Trick of Light, was fabulous. I can’t wait to read this one.

 

Gay Knights and Horny Heroes: Tales from King Arthur’s Court 
by Michael Gouda

Gwene-who?

The timeless tales of King Arthur have been told throughout the ages as sterling examples of bravery, manhood, and heart-searing romance. But really, we know it’s all about the men.

Here we have a re-imagined landscape of Arthurian love stories, a place in which contests of strength become contests of foreplay, a knight’s favored squire may be his equally favored bedmate, and Lancelot is given his rightful place in history: at Arthur’s side and in his bed, for as long as the two shall live.

Come, gentle readers, and venture into the world of yore, where men were men, and so are their lovers, and every warrior loves a good joust! Welcome to the world of Gay Knights and Horny Heroes—God save the King! (And the man at his side!)

Notes: I am obsessed with all things Aurthurian. I’m unsure how I ended up missing this treat, but I’ve remedied it now. I shall be reading very soon.

 

Stray by Kari Gregg

With a lycan father, a human mother, and the human side of his genetic makeup dominant, Luke left his birth pack to try living among humans, but he felt awkward and uncomfortable isolated from the culture that raised him. He’s still searching for where he fits in.

After losing his family in a vicious attack, Dean rebuilt his pack by accepting loners, rejects, other survivors, and even ferals. He and his ragtag group of strays made a warm and welcoming home.

Luke believes he’s finally found where he belongs. Meddling parents and a neighbor who isn’t as human as he seems won’t sway him. Luke wants Dean to take in one last stray…him.

Content Warning: Shifter knotting/tying, mating heats (yes, plural), and jerky!

Notes: She’s back, ladies and gentlemen! I can’t wait to read Gregg’s newest book. It looks like tons of fun (and mating heats).

 

A Bear Walks into a Bar by Eden Winters

It takes one strong alpha with a tight grip to keep a mountain full of shifters under control. Sawyer Ballantine’s contending with an uppity wolf leader and a herd of shifter elk bound and determined to take over. He might be the lone bear on the mountain, but he’s not going to allow another four shifters to just move in, especially not when they whiff of power. They’ll either be his in all ways, or they’ll be gone.

Dillon, Jerry, Kevin, and Brad have no one but each other since their groups kicked them out. The young bear, wolves, and fox make a merry ménage, pooling their meager skills and serving beer. They’ve stumbled into more than they understand, caught in the dispute between the Urso of Ballantine Mountain and the elk. But winter’s setting in, and they don’t know how to keep Dillon safe for hibernation.

And then a bear walks into their bar.

Notes: Eden, shifters, bears… I’m in.

 

Protecting His Witch by Zoe Forward

Veterinarian Kat Ramsey hasn’t a clue that she’s a witch. Sure, she can read minds, and there’s the whole “dimension-hopping” issue that she can’t quite control, but Kat is determined to keep things normal. That is, until she accidentally hops into the Otherworld, and runs smack into Matthew Ryan?the seriously hot one-night stand from years ago who shoved her out of his dorm. Naked.

And there’s the tiny matter of the curse she gave him.

May you never find satisfaction with another woman. Billionaire and former druid Matthew Ryan hasn’t forgotten the curse, or the witch who gave it to him. Kat’s unexpected return means the curse will finally be broken. Unfortunately, his libido has other ideas?like how to get her back into his bed one last time. But far more worrying is his suspicion that Kat is the seventh Pleiades witch. Because while he’s turned his back on his druidic ways, he’s still bound to protect the woman who made his life hell…

The last thing he wanted was to fall for a witch…

Notes: I’m kind of on an urban fantasy kick lately (I blame Lexi). This one caught my eye.

 

So now, back to work and maybe when I finish a chapter or two I’ll reward myself with time to read.

In the Stacks

It’s storming outside and when it storms like this, I like to read. A lot. Which also means I sort of binge on book purchases… here’s what I’ve added to my TBR this week

Phoenix Reborn by J.D. Tyler

Wolf shifter and Firewalker Phoenix “Nix” Monroe has finally met his ultimate Bondmate—Alpha Pack nurse Noah Brooks. Unable to accept his own sexual identity, Nix rejects Noah despite the intense attraction he feels towards him.

By the time Nix realizes he has cast aside the love of his life, it may be too late to save Noah from a terrifying enemy…

Notes: Releases March 15th. This book is numbered 7.5 in part of a series, and I suggest you read the series in order.

Taking Shots by Toni Aleo

No matter how hard she tries, Elleanor Fisher never thinks she’s good enough, from her job to her weight to her love life. After enduring years of abuse at the hands of an ex-boyfriend, Elli has been drifting through life in a daze. Until, that is, she meets Shea Adler on a promotional shoot for the NHL’s Nashville Assassins. Before Elli knows what’s happening, the gorgeous Shea breaks the ice and shatters her world.

A brilliant athlete inside the rink, Shea Adler is tired of the life he’s living outside of it: the women, the money, the drinking. But everything changes when he meets Elli. After laying eyes on this feisty, witty, beautiful woman, he feels like he’s just taken the hardest hit of his life. No matter how skeptical she is, Shea knows they are meant to be together—if only he can convince Elli to put her insecurities aside before she misses out on a shot at love.

Notes: No joke, I bought this because the series title is The Assassins. I know nothing about hockey.

 

Three by RJ Scott

Is this just hot sex, or can two become three?

Mark is finding his way in life after six years in the army. He’s always wanted to write scripts for TV, and for one show in particular, Tomorrow’s Game.

Half in lust already with the lead actor Zach, he is shocked when he ends up in Zach’s bed and finds out that Zach’s co-star Rob is part of the package.

Notes: RJ Scott and a ménage… need I say more?

Broken Soldier by Jamie Lynn Miller

Sergeant Connor Finley and Sergeant Shawn Weller are dedicated soldiers working covert ops for Shadow Unit — a joint UK/US anti-terrorism task force.

Partners in the field and out, they had been through hell together for the last four years and made it through standing side by side. But when their latest undercover op to bring down an arms dealer plunges them into a world of drugs, sex and violence, Shawn must literally get in bed with the enemy in order to complete the mission. And Connor is forced to watch, helpless, as his partner is broken into pieces.

Will love be enough to put them both back together or will this be their final mission?
WARNING: Contains scenes of drug use, graphic sex and realistic situations

Notes: I love this author and the whole commando vibe here. I’m in.

 

The 13th Hex by Jordan L. Hawk

Romance. Magic.
Murder.

Dominic Kopecky dreamed of becoming a member of New York’s Metropolitan Witch Police—a dream dashed when he failed the test for magical aptitude. Now he spends his days drawing the hexes the MWP relies on for their investigations.

But when a murder by patent hex brings crow familiar Rook to his desk, Dominic can’t resist the chance to experience magic. And as the heat grows between Dominic and Rook, so does the danger. Because the case has been declared closed—and someone is willing to kill to keep it that way.

Notes: Releases April 5th. This is a second edition (my first time reading it) and the first in a series.

 

Legal Heat by Sarah Castille

Katy Sinclair made it to the brink of partnership at her high-powered law firm with hard work, dogged determination, and the ruthless self-discipline to cultivate a conservative public image. But when she follows an evasive witness into a sex club, she can’t deny herself a red-hot sexual encounter with the seductive bartender who sets her body on fire. She’s sure no one will ever know about her indiscretion—until she walks into the courtroom to find her dirty little secret is the opposing counsel in the most important case of her career.

As the managing partner in a struggling law firm, hot-shot attorney Mark Richards can’t afford any mistakes that might cost him his biggest client. Like getting involved with his beautiful, determined opponent—the mystery woman he hasn’t been able to forget. But when Katy’s quest for justice leads to death threats, Mark will sacrifice everything to protect her.

Now they’re risking their hearts…and their lives…in a race to catch a killer. Little do they know, the greatest danger lies closer to home.

Warning: The book contains explicit sex, light bondage, violence, murder, steamy shenanigans in the courtroom, naughty sexytimes in the boardroom, and an exceptionally hot hero with a versatile tie. Any objections will be overruled.

Notes: I love this author and I just found out a #2.5 is coming soon, so I want to read the whole series first.

 

Turncoat by Megan Derr

Dixie is a man adrift, picking away at the evildoings of the Grand Order of Defenders and the DeVine Corporation wherever he’s able. But none of it is what he really wants, and what he wants is out of reach.

Then a notorious thief crosses his path, a man with abilities that might make all the difference. With his help, Dixie can at long last return to face the people that destroyed his whole world and return that destruction tenfold.

Notes: Megan Derr is it. The first book in this series, Trick of Light, was fabulous. I can’t wait to read this one.

 

Gay Knights and Horny Heroes: Tales from King Arthur’s Court 
by Michael Gouda

Gwene-who?

The timeless tales of King Arthur have been told throughout the ages as sterling examples of bravery, manhood, and heart-searing romance. But really, we know it’s all about the men.

Here we have a re-imagined landscape of Arthurian love stories, a place in which contests of strength become contests of foreplay, a knight’s favored squire may be his equally favored bedmate, and Lancelot is given his rightful place in history: at Arthur’s side and in his bed, for as long as the two shall live.

Come, gentle readers, and venture into the world of yore, where men were men, and so are their lovers, and every warrior loves a good joust! Welcome to the world of Gay Knights and Horny Heroes—God save the King! (And the man at his side!)

Notes: I am obsessed with all things Aurthurian. I’m unsure how I ended up missing this treat, but I’ve remedied it now. I shall be reading very soon.

 

Stray by Kari Gregg

With a lycan father, a human mother, and the human side of his genetic makeup dominant, Luke left his birth pack to try living among humans, but he felt awkward and uncomfortable isolated from the culture that raised him. He’s still searching for where he fits in.

After losing his family in a vicious attack, Dean rebuilt his pack by accepting loners, rejects, other survivors, and even ferals. He and his ragtag group of strays made a warm and welcoming home.

Luke believes he’s finally found where he belongs. Meddling parents and a neighbor who isn’t as human as he seems won’t sway him. Luke wants Dean to take in one last stray…him.

Content Warning: Shifter knotting/tying, mating heats (yes, plural), and jerky!

Notes: She’s back, ladies and gentlemen! I can’t wait to read Gregg’s newest book. It looks like tons of fun (and mating heats).

 

A Bear Walks into a Bar by Eden Winters

It takes one strong alpha with a tight grip to keep a mountain full of shifters under control. Sawyer Ballantine’s contending with an uppity wolf leader and a herd of shifter elk bound and determined to take over. He might be the lone bear on the mountain, but he’s not going to allow another four shifters to just move in, especially not when they whiff of power. They’ll either be his in all ways, or they’ll be gone.

Dillon, Jerry, Kevin, and Brad have no one but each other since their groups kicked them out. The young bear, wolves, and fox make a merry ménage, pooling their meager skills and serving beer. They’ve stumbled into more than they understand, caught in the dispute between the Urso of Ballantine Mountain and the elk. But winter’s setting in, and they don’t know how to keep Dillon safe for hibernation.

And then a bear walks into their bar.

Notes: Eden, shifters, bears… I’m in.

 

Protecting His Witch by Zoe Forward

Veterinarian Kat Ramsey hasn’t a clue that she’s a witch. Sure, she can read minds, and there’s the whole “dimension-hopping” issue that she can’t quite control, but Kat is determined to keep things normal. That is, until she accidentally hops into the Otherworld, and runs smack into Matthew Ryan?the seriously hot one-night stand from years ago who shoved her out of his dorm. Naked.

And there’s the tiny matter of the curse she gave him.

May you never find satisfaction with another woman. Billionaire and former druid Matthew Ryan hasn’t forgotten the curse, or the witch who gave it to him. Kat’s unexpected return means the curse will finally be broken. Unfortunately, his libido has other ideas?like how to get her back into his bed one last time. But far more worrying is his suspicion that Kat is the seventh Pleiades witch. Because while he’s turned his back on his druidic ways, he’s still bound to protect the woman who made his life hell…

The last thing he wanted was to fall for a witch…

Notes: I’m kind of on an urban fantasy kick lately (I blame Lexi). This one caught my eye.

 

So now, back to work and maybe when I finish a chapter or two I’ll reward myself with time to read.

What I Love (in audio)

Audiobooks are not new but we’ve seen a kick in interest over the past couple of years and, yes, I was one of those who found myself interested. In my head, as I read, characters take on life with personalities of their own, inflections that are their own. But to hear someone else’s take on those characters, the stories, the inflections… that’s something altogether different and fun.

Here are some of my favorite audiobooks with some of my favorite narrators:

Love Lessons by Heidi Cullinan
Narrated by Iggy Toma

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.

This was my first foray into audio, and I have to tell you I fell for this narrator immediately. I’m so head over heels that I begged to have him read Prickly Business. So for me, the combination of storyteller and storyline is pertinent and this combination of Iggy Toma and Heidi Cullinan is fabulous! Everything about this story (especially Kelly and his Disney obsession) speaks to me. Add in Toma’s fantastic voices and pacing and this story (as well as the entire series) is a winner.

Shock & Awe by Abigail Roux
Narrated by Brock Thompson

After barely surviving a shootout in New Orleans, Sidewinder medic Kelly Abbott has to suffer through a month of recovery before he can return home to Colorado. He’s not surprised when fellow Sidewinder Nick O’Flaherty stays with him in New Orleans. Nor is he surprised when Nick travels home with him to help him get back on his feet – after all, years on the same Marine Force Recon team bonded the men in ways that only bleeding for a brother can. He’s very surprised, though, when Nick humors his moment of curiosity and kisses him.

Nick knows all of Kelly’s quirks and caprices, so the kiss was a low-risk move on his part…or so he thought. But what should’ve been a simple moment unleashes a flood of confusing emotions and urges that neither man is prepared to address. Now, Kelly and Nick must figure out what they mean to each other – friends and brothers in arms or something even deeper – before the past can come back to ruin their tenuous future.

For those of you (like me) who love Roux’s Cut & Run series as well as the Sidewinders series, let me introduce you to the audiobooks that give life to your favorite characters in a new way. While I love absolutely every book in both series, Shock & Awe holds a different place in my heart because it’s romance to the core. Don’t get me wrong, I love the adventure and mystery of this world, but to watch Kelly and Nick fall in love within the confines of one setting without crazy killers on the loose is special to me. In combination with this narrator, this audiobook is a definite winner.

Knight by Kristen Ashley
Narrated by Savannah Richards

Anya Gage has learned that to get anything good in life, you have to work for it. She has no expectations, no dreams. Then she finds herself at a party where she doesn’t want to be, and she meets Knight. Knight Sebring knows who he is, what he wants, and what he likes. And he gets it. But he never expected something as sweet as Anya Gage to wander into his bedroom during a party he did not expect to be having to borrow his phone. Knight tries to leave Anya to the life she deserves, with white picket fences and a man who watches football on Sundays – good, normal, and clean. But when Anya comes to his nightclub and finds herself in a situation, he knows someone has to look after her. He can’t fight it anymore and decides that someone will be him. Knight teaches Anya that just as with the bad, in life you should also expect the good. And he teaches her this by giving it to her. But Knight has a dark past, and just as he desires Anya for exactly who she is, he fears that when she finds out exactly the man he has become and always intends to be, she’ll leave him for good, normal, and clean.

For those of you who don’t know, sometimes I read m/f (and listen to it). I’m head over heels for everything Kristen Ashley, as in totally obsessed. So when I happened upon Knight in audio, I grabbed it. I knew I already loved the story because I’ve read it before, but this is the first audiobook I’ve listened to with a female narrator, and I absolutely adore Savannah Richards’s tone and intonation. She’s engaging and fun to listen to. Since I’ve listened to this book, I’ve bought like four more of her narrations based solely on the fact that Richards is the narrator.

Murder & Mayhem by Rhys Ford
Narrated by Greg Tremblay

Dead women tell no tales.

Former cat burglar Rook Stevens stole many a priceless thing in the past, but he’s never been accused of taking a life – until now. It was one thing to find a former associate inside Potter’s Field, his pop culture memorabilia shop, but quite another to stumble across her dead body.

Detective Dante Montoya thought he’d never see Rook Stevens again – not after his former partner falsified evidence to entrap the jewelry thief and Stevens walked off scot-free. So when he tackled a fleeing murder suspect, Dante was shocked to discover the blood-covered man was none other than the thief he’d fought to put in prison and who still makes his blood sing.

Rook is determined to shake loose the murder charge against him, even if it means putting distance between him and the rugged Cuban-Mexican detective who brought him down. If one dead con artist wasn’t bad enough, others soon follow, and as the bodies pile up around Rook’s feet, he’s forced to reach out to the last man he’d expect to believe in his innocence – and the only man who’s ever gotten under Rook’s skin.

Is there any reason to not listen to the Rhys Ford/Greg Tremblay partnership? The simple answer to that is no. Not only is this story fantastic in all aspects, but Tremblay gives it a new life. I love Rook and Dante and now I love their voices.

Alpha Trine by Lexi Ander
Narrated by Michael Stellman

The sole survivor on a science vessel adrift in deep space, Zeus was adopted by the Emperor and Empress of the Mar’Sani, though he is both human and blind, and seen by most as unfit to join the royal family. Though they were able to repair his vision, Zeus does not trust his eyes and the nobles of his parents’ court refuse to ever trust a frail human.

Dargon Kal-Turak, along with his symbiote and lover Alpha, command one of the most dangerous ships in the stars. Narrowly escaping a trap, they dock in a space port to make repairs, but find that the Psonics hunting them are closing in fast. In desperation they kidnap the port master mechanic, unaware that the man they’ve brought on board is more than he seems, and will bring far more upheaval to their ship, their lives, and the stars than any of them could have imagined.

I have literally read every version of this book, from its inception as a prompt story to its lengthier, more involved and adventurous story. I absolutely adore Zeus, Dargon, and Alpha. I was sure that nothing could make this story even better. I was wrong, because this narrator transforms an already amazing story into something perfect. Also, when you get this book you’re gonna want to pick up Striker, the second book in this story… ditto on everything I’ve said about book one for book two.

Rock Addiction by Nalini Singh
Narrated by Justine O. Keef

Molly Webster has always followed the rules. After an ugly scandal tore apart her childhood and made her the focus of the media’s harsh spotlight, she vowed to live an ordinary life. No fame. No impropriety. No pain. Then she meets Zachary Fox, a tattooed bad-boy rocker with a voice like whiskey and sin and a touch that could become an addiction.

Fox promises scorching heat and dangerous pleasure, coaxing Molly to extend their one-night stand into a one-month fling. After that he’ll be gone forever, his life never again intersecting with her own. Sex and sin and sensual indulgence, all with an expiration date. No ties, no regrets. Too late Molly realizes it isn’t only her body that’s become addicted to Fox but her heart….

Another of my m/f weaknesses is anything Nalini Singh. Her Rock series is an autobuy for me. So when I saw this in audio, I had to have. So I had. And I loved. Molly and Zachary are hot as it is. Given life by Keef, they are scorching. This book by itself is beyond fantastic. In audio, it’s better than.

Hell & Highwater by Charlie Cochet
Narrated by Mark Westfield

When homicide detective Dexter J. Daley’s testimony helps send his partner away for murder, the consequences – and the media frenzy – aren’t far behind. He soon finds himself sans boyfriend, sans friends, and, after an unpleasant encounter in a parking garage after the trial, he’s lucky he doesn’t find himself sans teeth. Dex fears he’ll get transferred from the Human Police Force’s Sixth Precinct, or worse, get dismissed. Instead, his adoptive father – a sergeant at the Therian-Human Intelligence Recon Defense Squadron otherwise known as the THIRDS – pulls a few strings, and Dex gets recruited as a Defense Agent.

Dex is determined to get his life back on track and eager to get started in his new job. But his first meeting with Team Leader Sloane Brodie, who also happens to be his new jaguar Therian partner, turns disastrous. When the team is called to investigate the murders of three HumaniTherian activists, it soon becomes clear to Dex that getting his partner and the rest of the tightknit team to accept him will be a lot harder than catching the killer – and every bit as dangerous.

My love of Dex and Sloane knows no bounds. And to hear the story,

Hot Head by Damon Suede
Narrated by Charlie David

Where there’s smoke, there’s fire…. Since 9/11, Brooklyn firefighter Griff Muir has wrestled with impossible feelings for his best friend and partner at Ladder 181, Dante Anastagio. Unfortunately, Dante is strictly a ladies’ man, and the FDNY isn’t exactly gay-friendly. For ten years, Griff has hidden his heart in a half-life of public heroics and private anguish. Griff’s caution and Dante’s cockiness make them an unbeatable team. To protect his buddy, there’s nothing Griff wouldn’t do…until a nearly bankrupt Dante proposes the worst possible solution: HotHead.com, a gay porn website where uniformed hunks get down and dirty. And Dante wants them to appear there – together. Griff may have to guard his heart and live out his darkest fantasies on camera. Can he rescue the man he loves without wrecking their careers, their families, or their friendship?

Takeover by Anna Zabo
Narrated by Iggy Toma

Michael Sebastian thought that Curacao would be the perfect place to have a little fun in the sun – and between the sheets. So far no one has struck his interest – until Sam Anderson walks into the bar. With one look at his tense body and expensive suit, Michael knows that this is a man in need of release. And Michael is more than willing to lend a hand.

Shattered by the most intense sex he’s ever had, Sam has to face the facts – one night with a handsome, dominating stranger is all he gets before returning to the closet he’s been suffocating in for years. But when Sam starts his new job as the CEO of a failing technology company, he discovers that Michael is one of his new employees.

While Michael is desperate for another night with Sam, he knows he shouldn’t get involved with his boss, let alone another man who can’t accept who he is. But as they’re forced to work together to save the company, the desire sparking between them becomes impossible to ignore.

Perfect Imperfections by Cardeno C.
Narrated by Charlie David

Hollywood royalty Jeremy Jameson has lived a sheltered life with music as his sole focus and only friend. Before embarking on another international concert tour, he wanders into a bar in what he considers the middle-of-nowhere and meets a man who wins him over with his friendly smile and easy-going nature. Accountant, bartender, and adventure-seeker Reg Moore has fun talking and drinking with “The” Jeremy Jameson and can’t say no when the supposedly straight rock star makes him a once-in-a-lifetime offer: keep him company on his tour by playing the part of his boyfriend.

Listening to music, traveling the world, and jumping off cliffs is fun. Falling in love is even better. But to stay with Jeremy after the stage lights dim, Reg will need to help him realize there’s nothing to pretend about their relationship.

Rough Justice by Sarah Castille
Narrated by Chandra Skyye

Raised in a motorcycle gang, tough and beautiful Arianne Wilder has always dreamed of a normal life. But no sooner does she escape her father’s domineering grasp than she wakes up to find herself in a rival gang’s clubhouse–at the mercy of the dangerously sexy Jagger Knight. The alpha leader of the notorious Sinner’s Tribe, Jagger Knight is all muscle, all biker, and all man. But somewhere inside this hard, tattooed outlaw, Arianne senses a kindred spirit–and she can’t ignore their tempestuous attraction.

Can she beat him at his own game in a revved-up blaze of glory? Or will their passion spark a war that’s the end of the road for them both?

Birthday Giveaway!

As some of you know, today—December 19th—is my birthday. I’m pretty vocal about it.

Also as most of you know Prickly Business was released on audio (at Audible) on the 17th.

I wanted to do something special for my birthday and what’s more special than giving gifts? So… here goes. For my birthday I’m giving away an audiobook of Prickly Business (narrated by the awesome Iggy Toma) and one ecopy of Reindeer Games.

Since I was a kid, my family has gotten together for our birthdays. Mostly for breakfast. So it’s become a thing. Every year, for my birthday, we get together and someone cooks breakfast. This year it’s French toast. I love French Toast.

As I have two releases in December (the month of my birth) I’m giving away one audiobook copy of Prickly Business and one ebook copy of Reindeer Games.

Prickly Business by Piper Vaughn & Kenzie Cade, Narrated by Iggy Toma (have I mentioned how much I love Iggy Toma?)

Some people might call Avery Babineaux a prick. He’s a hedgehog shifter from an old-money Louisiana family, with a penchant for expensive shoes and a reputation for being a judgmental snob. His attitude is why he and his fated mate are estranged. Not that Avery cares. He doesn’t want to be mated to some blue-collar werewolf anyway. Or so he keeps telling himself.

No werewolf likes to be looked down upon, least of all Dylan Green. He doesn’t need a mate, especially not some snotty hedgehog who sneers at his custom motorcycle shop and calls him a grease monkey. But when Avery gets into trouble with a shady loan shark, Dylan can’t stand by and let him be hurt – whether he wants the brat or not.

Yet once Dylan steps into Avery’s world, he realizes there’s more to Avery than his prickly exterior, and that unexpected vulnerability calls to Dylan’s protective instincts. The sassy little hedgehog needs a keeper, and despite their horrible first impressions, Dylan starts to believe he might be the wolf for the job.

Reindeer Games by Kenzie Cade

Dashing von Stride has one thing on his mind: winning the window display contest for the Miracle on Main Christmas Contest. His plans are set and ready—and then he walks into his toy store, Reindeer Games, to find a sleigh that shouldn’t be there. The mystery sleigh sparks a new plan, however, and now all Dash needs is the perfect Santa to model his display after.

This year, the pranks with his reindeer have gotten out of hand. Instead of preparing for the Big Day, Niklaus Kringle is hunting for his missing sleigh. Locating it should have been easy, but games easily won are seldom worth playing…

 

Ragtime Time

Fridays are my favorite! I love the weekend because it’s two days I don’t have to wake up early (even though I usually do anyway, but I don’t have to) and it’s usually time for me to relax and get some heavy writing in. This week has been especially tough because of last week’s super long weekend.

What I use to get me through tough weeks like this is music. All types (save a few) to relax me, to pump me up, to make me happy. So here is the playlist that’s gonna get me through today.

What music do you listen to that gets you through?

New Cover Art

My Christmas story, Reindeer Games, releases from Less Than Three Press on December 9th. Just over three weeks! 

You can pre-order Reindeer Games here.

BLURB:

Dashing von Stride has one thing on his mind: winning the window display contest for the Miracle on Main Christmas Contest. His plans are set and ready—and then he walks into his toy store, Reindeer Games, to find a sleigh that shouldn’t be there. The mystery sleigh sparks a new plan, however, and now all Dash needs is the perfect Santa to model his display after.

This year, the pranks with his reindeer have gotten out of hand. Instead of preparing for the Big Day, Niklaus Kringle is hunting for his missing sleigh. Locating it should have been easy, but games easily won are seldom worth playing…

And with it comes a brand new amazing cover by the lovely London Calling.

Facebook Chat Tomorrow

Hey guys! Piper and I will be taking over Dreamspinner’s Facebook page tomorrow for a chat with you. There will be prizes, knotty talk, and a sneak peek or two into the world of the Portland Pack Chronicles. Come join us!

Trapped is live at M/M Goodreads

My addition to the M/M Good reads Don’t Read in the Closet event this year is up at on the group site. It’ll be available in all formats in a few days on the website, soon to come to Amazon.

If you’re a member of the group, you can find Trapped here.

Here is the prompt from the amazing Anna (I really should work on a blurb):

Dear Author,
“That’s me. The one in the hat. Why did I think this weekend away would be such a good idea? Ten of us, all sleeping in one cabin in the middle of winter, freezing our balls off. I must have been crazy, especially as I had to go and wake up [guy on bed] after he drank enough to sink a battleship last night. He was like a man possessed. And now I can’t stop staring at his mouth. What’s wrong with me? I’m not gay, he’s not gay. It’s fucking ridiculous. What am I gonna do?”

Almost anything goes with this prompt. But I would LOVE to see lots of smouldering tension and steamy ‘almost’ moments. Contemporary preferred, no shifters or supernatural please.

Sincerely,
Anna

And here is the lovely cover from the amazing J.K. Hogan.

Prickly Business Cover Reveal and Pre-order

You guys! My first novel is coming out in less than a month! I am beyond stoked. And with such an occasion comes the cover reveal. You may have seen it around one or thirty places. Piper and I are offering a giveaway: One copy of Prickly Business (paperback or ebook) and a $10 GC (winner’s choice). You can catch up with the tour here. You can also find the blitz stops in its entirety here. 

AND the pre-order links are up at Dreamspinner! So here is the link for the ebook. And here it is for the paperback.

And here is the cover by the amazing Reese Dante. I totally fangurled when when I found out Reese was doing the cover. Isn’t it beautiful?