The Scarecrow & George C by Mia Kerick
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3-3.5 Stars

Donovan "Van" dresses like a scarecrow. He's been through something at home and would rather the world not see him at all. The scarecrow is his attempt at scaring away anyone who tries to get close. And now, a senior in high school, he's completely alone.

George C was kicked out of his home when he graduated high school. He survived on the streets and did things for money that he's ashamed of. When he gets a job at the same cafe as Van, he's intrigued by him.

Soon enough, George C's past comes to haunt him and he finds himself at the mercy of Van's quirky moods and raw heart. Both of them come to terms with what friendship means and have to save each other before its too late.

I liked the characters for the most part, but some of the exchanges seemed disembodied. The writing style wasn't my favorite, dipping into fourth wall at times, talking specifically to the reader.

The book was told from both POV's, which was a plus for me, but again, things didn't really seem to line up well. Especially with George C. He had a secret that he wouldn't share, then when he did, it seemed like it was no big deal, then it was shared with everyone without issue. It just left me feeling a bit directionless.

Overall the story was sweet, both MC's worked hard at comforting each other and helping to find the HEA they deserved. It was worth the read, just had me hoping for a bit more as far as style goes.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*

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Kiss Me Again by Garrett Leigh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 Stars

Oh, this tale is so full of angst, but it's balanced with comfort and love in the way that only Garrett Leigh can write. In a word: Powerful.

Aiden and Ludo meet in the hospital. Ludo is there to fight the bipolar demons from his head and Aiden is there after falling from a tree, a van breaking his fall.

Aiden emerges from surgery in pain. So much pain. He's loopy on painkillers and he can't think straight enough to know if the skinny, beautiful man that keeps him company is real. Ludo spends his days longing to sit with Aiden, to simply touch him. And then one day, Ludo is gone.

Months later they find each other again and try to figure out if they care enough about themselves to try to create a life together. With all of its inherent ups and downs.

Okay, can I just say how much I loved Aiden? He was a right git at times, but he was so invested and caring and simply there for Ludo.

And Ludo, with his love for his dog. And basically everything. And his cousin Angelo. I LOVED that Angelo was mentioned as the dancing cousin. But Ludo was such a real character, and his worry over being too much, too hard, too consuming... it was just the right amount of angst. And Garrett Leigh can write angst perfectly. It's never too much. It's just perfectly done, leaving you both worried for and loving the character.

At the end of Kiss Me Again> I just wanted to hug Ludo and Aiden and tell them how proud I was. Such a great book!

Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. To be cross posted on http://gaybook.reviews/ upon publication*

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The Reluctant Husband by Eliot Grayson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Eliot Grayson can write an engaging, emotional roller coaster of a story like no one else. I loved The Replacement Husband and I so love this book as well.

Tom was considered 'the bad guy' in the last book, but is our man after redemption in this story. Writing an unlikeable character into a likeable one is extremely difficult to pull off, yet I fell for Tom without question. He wasn't perfect and he knew it. He wore the persecution of his past like a cloak, finally shedding it in the end.

Mal wanted nothing more than to save his cousin's life, and clung to the belief that marrying Tom would achieve it. When it didn't happen overnight, the tension and panic turned into a wall between them that was difficult to tear down. Tom fought hard, but Mal waivered.

I loved how completely invested I was in the story. I wanted to shake both Tom and Mal and force them into a box to talk it out. I absolutely love caring so much about the outcome. This was so well written and just a lovely, strong story of letting go of the past and finding your happy.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*

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The Haunted Bedchamber by Gillian St. Kevern
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This has been such an exciting and fun series to read! Victorian ghost stories with a bit of romance is my cup of tea.

In this story Wiremu has been summoned by his grandfather to visit him in England from New Zealand. He's traveled across the world to basically audition for his grandfather's inheritance. But, when he's given the room in the estate that's haunted, his motives change from deceit to intrigue as the story unravels.

I loved Pip from the first story and loved that he was involved in this one again. There were a lot of twists and turns, times when I thought I knew, but didn't. Gillian St. Kevern does a great job of leading the reader into the story with masterful writing and engaging characters every time.

This is a great addition to the series and a wonderful tale of mystery and love.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ **

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Arctic Wild by Annabeth Albert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the feeling I get when I finish an Annabeth Albert story. It's like everything just falls perfectly into place and I have a bit of happiness and hope in my heart. This newest book of hers is no exception.

Reuben is a rapidly aging attorney in the tri-state area and has worked himself silly to provide and care for his ex-wife and teenage daughter. When his co-workers/friends bail on an Alaskan vacation, he's stuck going himself. But it's not all bad. He meets tour guide Toby, who's young and fun, but with a ton of baggage. When their plane crashes in the middle of nowhere they both get a chance to save each other, and then possibly save themselves.

I love how Annabeth Albert sets up a story. It's never some random made up city. Every detail is calculated and each decision is metered, her obvious research adding so much to the book.

Both MC's had issues, but there wasn't a ton of angst, nor was there a huge communication gap, which I am always grateful for. Toby worked hard for every cent he made and used that money to take care of his sisters and father. He had a lot of pride, which became a point of contention.

Reuben was able to find his way into being part of his daughter's life with the help of Toby. He was able to see how much his work ruled his life and how much he was missing.

I also LOVED the mention of Adrian Gottlieb's game Space Villager from her book Status Update. Easter Eggs are super fun!

Overall, this was a lovely read with some wonderful characters who both find what they are looking for and become better for it. Recommended read.

*Galley copy generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*

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Barefoot by Lillian Francis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an adorable short!

Finn worked at a homeless shelter and gave his shoes to a man who had none. That's just the kind of guy he was. When he made his way to the grocery store in his socks, Sam, his crush who happens to work at the grocery flirts with him and assumes he's homeless.

This story was full of sweetness and heart, a misunderstanding and a cute ending. Totally worth the read.

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String Boys by Amy Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 Stars

I loved this and I hated this. I loved it because it was pure Amy Lane. The words just flowed and the love was beautiful and raw and elegant and real. I hated it because it was heartbreak after heartbreak. But I hated it in the best way, I guess.

This is the story of two boys who meet as children, realize they love each other, then spend the next decade apart, trying to find their way back.

My heart was in a vice the entire time. When I finally made it to the end, it felt like I'd run a marathon. This is one of those books that will stay with you for a very long time. There was so much hate, but so much love that counterbalanced it woven through the entire story.

For a bonus, there were a couple of cameo's towards the end from Amy Lane's other works that put a freaking huge smile on my face.

Overall, this was a wonderfully painful read. I cherished it, wanted to throw it, choked up while reading, but mostly fell in love.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Clarity of Lines by N.R. Walker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series has always been my go-to reread. My annual Christmas to New Year's read. It's always been comforting, wrapping my heart in warmth, giving me a laugh. I didn't think I could love it any more, but Nick J. Russo has just added a new dimension to Tom and Cooper's story and it's perfection. I am in awe. I have never teared up when reading, especially this middle book in the series, but the narration was just so spot-on and full of life, love and emotion. If I could give this audio book a zillion stars, I would.


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Fire and Granite by Andrew Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this listen. I think this series is fun and this was a great addition. Greg Tremblay did an amazing job, as usual, of creating completely different voices for each character, inserting emotion and feeling into each written word.

Tons of drama and excitement, a bit of mystery and two men who communicated well and loved fiercely.

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The Color of Summer by Anna Martin
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Overall, the story had a good cast of characters, likable MC's and some fun times, but I just felt like it was lacking along the way in plot.

When Max Marshall decides to move back home to his semi-small town, he runs into his best friend's older brother, Tyler Reed. Things between them heat up a bit, but there are some bumps along the way before they can have any sort of HEA.

First of all, a tattoo artist is one of my overall favorite kind of character, so I will admit that I loved Max's job. He was a really nice, fun loving guy who got along well with kids and was super supportive. It felt strange to me, though, that he was a such a strong force in his business life, but his personal life he was so wishy-washy. It didn't really fit with his character in my opinion.

Tyler had a hang up about being gay. In the beginning he said he wasn't. Then he was. Then he was okay with talking about it, but didn't want to be seen. Then he could lose his job. It didn't flow well, to me, and then all of a sudden it was just never brought up again.

I really enjoyed so many parts of this story, but they just didn't seem to come together well enough for me to have been super excited about the characters and their outcome.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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From These Ashes by Davidson King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Audio Version:

I loved this story. We finally got some background info on Black and how he began his reign of justice/terror in Haven Hart. With Quill being the focus of the book, it was quite a fun ride. It was dangerous and sad, but also hopeful and sweet.

Another perfect addition to this series.

Joel Leslie and Philip Alces both have such distinctive voices and I've loved that this entire series has been the two of them, teamed up. Philip Alces nails the domineering, powerful Black while Joel Leslie gives lightness and humor to Quill. Brilliant performances by both.

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His Steady Heart by Nell Iris
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If you are looking for a comfortable, short and sweet story, this is right up your alley. And with an age gap added in for good measure!

Ashley has lived next door to Pippin for over a decade. Pippin's mother was absentee and flighty, showing up with a different boyfriend all the time. Now that Pippin is an adult, he's working two jobs and needs some peace and quiet in his life. He takes up residence on Ashley's couch and finds that Ashley might just be what he's been searching for.

I loved that Ashley took such good care of Pippin and watched after him, buying books for his house, even though he didn't read. He was so sweet and caring. Pippin was true to his character throughout, hesitant, yet domineering when he'd made up his mind. They were a perfect match.

This story was very sweet, no angst, just plotted along well. The HEA covered quite a span of time and was a nice finish to their story.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Fire and Agate by Andrew Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really, really enjoyed listening to this book. It was interesting and sweet and very well done.

Pavle had dreams of coming to the United States to get away from Serbia and find a better life. Instead, he got caught up in a sex trafficking ring and spent 4 years in hell. He managed to escape and is in protective custody, but he won't be safe until his captor is caught.

Chris is a deputy officer and is asked to take on the role of protector of Pavle. He's brought to his home where he is terrified of everything and can barely communicate. But, in finding ways to include Pavle in various chores and activities, he gets to know the man that he really is. They were the perfect blend of hesitant and innocent and it was fun to hear their relationship progress.

I found the story to be well written, engaging and full of heart. Greg Tremblay presented a wide array of talent in his performance. I was impressed with his version of Pavle with his broken English and the grief and hope in his voice. Chris was both very sweet and protective and came across as an overall nice guy who was compassionate and loving.

I would absolutely recommend taking the time to enjoy this audio experience.

*Audio copy generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*

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The Hate You Drink by N.R. Walker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Alcoholism is powerful, intense and heart breaking. When N.R. Walker writes about it, it's all of those things and more. Because it's backed with love.

It's almost impossible not to fall in love with each and every character in this story. From Erik, who was in love with his alcoholic best friend, who finally had enough and broke his own heart in the process. To Monroe, who drank hate and guilt and sadness and pain. Elektra, who is the supportive, bratty, fun sister we all want. Erik's parents, who did nothing but love without condition. And Saul. Oh, my goodness, Saul. He was probably my favorite in this story. And I couldn't help but thinking 'Better Call Saul' during the entire book. He just understood and healed.

N.R. Walker shows her writing brilliance once again with this heart wrenching story of addiction and shows how people can change when they are loved and supported. It showed that hope is real and can heal. And that everyone is worthy of love.

Given the content, yes, it could be difficult for some to read, however I still recommend each and every word.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Prophesy Book II: The Bringer of Wrath by A.E. Via
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book had so much of everything. There was a perfect balance of action, mystery, intrigue and sexy times.

In this second book of the series, Alek, the second wolf in command under the AZ and Justice's brother is reunited with Bell, his true mate who happens to be a vampire. But things aren't always what they seem and they both have to decide if they truly want to be mated.

I loved the interaction between the Alek and Bell. There was an interesting plot twist at the start that paved the way for the entire story that really deepened the read. There were moments between Bell and his mate that had me laughing and moments that were so tender it inspired awe. Each of them had moments where they became the Alpha in the relationship and where they were the submissive and it was exciting to see how they reacted to each other during the shift in power.

A.E. Via is a writer who listens to what her readers want and delivers every time. This was brilliantly done and very engaging. I loved it.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Larry Boots, Exterminator by John Inman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This wacky romance between a bow-tie wearing nerd and a hitman just really did it for me. The characters together just swept me up in their story and I had a great time enjoying their banter and wit.

Larry Boots is no stranger to tragedy. With his twin brother murdered, he vowed revenge and has taken to a life of payback for sins committed by the worst of society that have skirted the law.

During an afternoon of surveillance he meets Ken, a very sweet, docile, dorky blind man with a heart of gold and hair to match. It doesn't take long for them to become close, but at some point Larry will have to tell him how he makes a living. And hope it doesn't scare him off.

Honestly, this was so easy to read and easy to love. It was fun and fresh and the MC's had charisma and heat in spades. Larry was a lovable crusader of evil and Kenny was impossible to not fall for. His sweet vulnerability was touching and made the story soft around the edges.

I absolutely recommend this read and give it a solid 4.5 stars.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Finding Love: The Perfect Size for You by Lily G. Blunt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The dynamic in this story was quite interesting to me. I really enjoyed this sexy short!

Andy is 18 and a half (you can see my ID for proof) years old and a virgin. He's gay, but isn't out to anyone yet, including the best friend that he wants a relationship with. In an effort to gain some experience, he hires an escort.

Ty isn't just any escort. He's a porn star, too. And he's proud of his body, his job and who he is. But when he gets a call from Andy, the skinny nerd, he's not sure what to think. But he soon finds out you can't judge a book by it's cover.

I was fascinated by the fact that it was Andy who was the dominant force in the relationship. He held the power, which was new and uncomfortable for Ty at first. I felt like this put them on an even keel in the relationship and made it super sweet. Honestly, I had wished for more, but the HFN ending was good enough for me.

The narration by Sean Crisden was brilliant. Ty had that cocky, mature, aggressive voice that just spoke of experience and oozed sex appeal. And his version of Andy made me laugh numerous times. His nasally, nerdy tone went deep when he was the aggressor and really added to the experience. I loved this audio!

Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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The Last Text by Alice Winters
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Every sentence pierced my heart. I loved this book so much! I want to start it all over again!

Merrick’s partner has been dead for two years and he’s still not coping well. It’s Daniel’s birthday and he leaves him a text message, like always. But this time, Jace responds saying this is now his new phone number.

After that text, they start messaging each other until they meet. But Merrick isn’t ready to replace Daniel yet. Nor is he ready to let Jace go...

This was a short, highly emotionally charged story with perfect dialogue, the greatest Gramps known to man, and a sweet epilogue to make all the heartbreak worth it.

I loved the words, loved the characters, loved the sentiment. Again and again I’ll read this and recommend to everyone I know.

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Want Me by Neve Wilder
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blown away is what I am.

This was so well written, so full of life and lust and love. I honestly couldn't put it down and I know it will be a book I'll return to over and over again.

I think the best thing about this was how real it was. There wasn't any miscommunication or unnecessary angst. It was literally two guys trying to figure out what their physical relationship was about, then dealing with the feelings that eventually came into play.

Wholeheartedly recommended and I really cherished this book.

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The Little Things by Jay Northcote
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I had read this in ebook format a while ago and while I enjoyed it back then, I have to say... I really enjoyed hearing it in audio.

Starting with the story, it's just so sweet about Joel's journey through a really rough time in his life. He's a single dad to his 3 year old daughter Evie. He's dealing with loss, coming to terms with fatherhood, and feeling his way through his emotions and what he wants for Evie.

While there was romance, the story centered more on Joel just living through the every day minutiae and coming out a good father and brother. His love interest, Liam, was introduced halfway through the story and was merely a supportive role in his quest to find his happiness. It was well written, very descriptive and enjoyable.

The narration by Matthew Lloyd Davies was, in a word, soothing. His mellow voice really added character to Joel and I thought his little Evie voice was spot on. With the tone set as smooth from the start, it was easy to keep up pace and the chapters flowed nicely. In my opinion, the narration added to the overall experience and I enjoyed listening immensely.

*Galley copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Torn by Rick R. Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The thought of having to pick between two vastly different, both perfect loves gives me anxiety. Fortunately, by the time I reached the end of this story, I was happy with the 'choice' as well as the ending.

The first section of this book follows Ricky as he plods across Brighton with his best friend, partying and sleeping with every bloke he makes eye contact with. It's set in 1995 where you were more concerned with getting off, not as much with what you'd end up catching. And there was some of that as well.

So our Ricky keeps running into Walt, who's hot and fun and studious. They get on well and decide that they want to see where it goes. After trading addresses and phone numbers, Walt walks away and Ricky lets him go...sadly.

Back at home in Chicago, Ricky meets Tom. He's everything that Walt isn't, but they just seem to fit. After spending weeks together, Walt calls and pops the bubble around him and Tom.

As much as I would love to go on there is no way I'm spoiling this read for you. You have to read it yourself to find the treasure at the end, but it was well worth the read. Rick R. Reed knows how to spin a story and give just enough information to hook you in. The specifics of each relationship unraveled at their own pace, giving way to understanding by the reader as you go.

I felt this was well done and a charming tale of a few months of Ricky's life in which he hoped to find Mr. Right and ended up with some options for the position as well as a few tough decisions.

Effortlessly fun and charming, I really enjoyed this story.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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The Doctor's Date by Heidi Cullinan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This series is turning making me mushy!!! I loved this addition.

Erin is the HR director at the Copper Point medical center and is known for being his father's pawn, but also for being the antagonist in Owen's life. In the previous book, Erin let his true honor out when he removed the ban against interoffice dating, but he never got the opportunity to explain HIS reasons.

When the committee sets up a bachelor auction, Erin schemes to finally have a chance at Owen. But his dad has other plans. This leads to a mystery to solve and some deep dives into both Erin and Owen's pasts. Ghosts come out to play and it's both haunting and healing.

As much as I enjoyed The Doctor's Secret, this was more my style. There was more mystery and romance than politics and it had a sweet young love vibe. I'm a sucker for a good enemies to lovers as well as hurt/comfort and this perfectly satisfied both as well as the added bonus of a first time.

Heidi Cullinan's quality of writing holds your attention from the start and the effortless way the characters fit together is inspiring. I loved the glimpse into their lives, their pasts and their healing. This was a really solid story filled with wonderful characters and a perfect nod to Scooby Doo mystery. Very much recommended.

*Galley copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Third Time's the Charm by K. Evan Coles
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story had me super entranced from the start. I am sporting a big time crush on Finn! And I’m a sucker for a good book cover and I’m in love with this one.

While standing in line for coffee with his friend, Luke turns and notices the hot guy behind him and smiles. Finn smiles back, but they both hesitate and miss an opportunity to speak. Later that night, they run into each other again under Finn's friend's awning and this time when the sparks fly, they take advantage of the situation.

The meet-cute in this was epically arranged and romantic as hell. I loved how both Finn and Luke paced themselves and were so adult about their blossoming relationship. There were plenty of hurdles on both sides and there were times when my throat got tight, but I loved their story. It was so charming and sweet.

This read felt so timeless to me. The characters were just so emotional and real, wanting and trying so badly to ensure the other was priority. It was refreshing to read such a deeply charged romance with two passionate MC's. I really loved this story and felt their instant connection so deeply. Gah. Totally recommended.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Adam Only by Roe Horvat
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The ability Roe Horvat has to take dirty, sexy words and deeds and turn them into sweet romance is just magical. Really. It boggles my mind.

I loved The Other Book and fangirled when I found out there were going to be more in the series and this addition just blew me away. We met Adam and Christopher in The Other Book and I love that Adam got his own story. He and Christopher needed to be heard and their story is just so bone crushingly powerful, gah. It's the perfect meshing of need and trust and freedom.

Adam has a history of falling hard and fast and for the wrong guy. He's been known to overstay his welcome and doesn't want to make the same mistake again. So, after spending a weekend with Christopher he leaves before he is told to leave. And Christopher is left wondering what he did wrong.

Both MC's were somewhat cocky at the the start when they met, but once they let themselves get carried away, they were both so vulnerable and young. There are very few authors that I've read that can get that sentiment out in their writing and do it well and this is one of them. My heart twisted for Christopher. It ached for Adam. I loved falling so hard for these characters.

And yes, for those all about the sex, there was a lot of it, but it was really beautiful. It was full of passion and need and oozed love.

I could go on and on but you should just read it for yourself. Buy a copy and treasure it.

*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Off Base by Annabeth Albert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I've been listening to this series completely out of order, but it hasn't really affected my love for these guys, so WIN.

This was a great story, but it took a while for me to really get into the relationship between the MC's especially since Pike had the experience of his youth. But once it got going, it moved along well and I really enjoyed how everything with Zach played out.

Audio: 4.5 Stars. I thought Tyler Stevens did an amazing job with Pike! I kept picturing him as Adam Rippon, lol.

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Top Secret by Sarina Bowen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Filled with heart, this book just resonated with me.

Keaton is the heir to a pharmaceutical company and lives a pretty luxurious life. He's up for president of his fraternity, he's got the perfect girlfriend. But if you look under a magnifying glass you'll see that things with his parents are strained, he doesn't want anything to do with his dad's company, and his girlfriend wants a threesome for her birthday because things are a little vanilla in the bedroom.

Luke has worked for every penny he has. He's living in the frat house on a full scholarship, but he's got to pay for his books, housing and food. In an effort to let off a little steam, he logs on to his Kinky! app and searches for a party. When he finds a couple looking for a third person, he's all in. But things quickly twist and turn and get messier than anyone could have expected.

I was so enthralled in this story. It had so many points of interest for me. First of all, it started with a first time gay experience, then added in a bit of enemies to lovers and ended with a brilliant HEA, giving me one hell of a satisfying experience.

The writing was fantastic and I loved all of the modern references. Keaton started out a bit of a snob and I worried that I'd hate his character, but he showed some class and some balls and just really wowed me. I loved Luke from the start and his character just had me laughing and cringing and hoping for his happy ending. He deserved it. They both did. And I love a story that makes me feel so much for the MC's. I wanted to badly for them to work out their issues and doubts, fears and insecurities and become their potential.

Loved this story, loved everything about it. Perfectly done, entertaining and fluffy. 5 won me over stars.

*Galley copy generously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Sweating Lies - Criminal Delights: Taken by Emma Jaye
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Holy hell can Emma Jaye write a dark, filthy, gritty story! I adored this.

Jiao Sweatt is undercover and taken. When he awakens to find he's imprisoned on a slave ship he does his best to get his bearings and figure out his move. But he quickly learns that there is a hierarchy at play and the one he thought was a toy ends up being more than he ever thought possible.

The story started out with a bang and unraveled consistently throughout each chapter. More and more information was brought to the surface and each time things became murkier. I loved the suspense and the anticipation that this writing style created. I was on the edge throughout the story and literally had no idea how it would end.

This was so well planned out and artfully executed. I was lost in the emotions and twists of the story until the very end. And what an end it was. Brilliant. I can't wait to read the next book!

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The Perils of Intimacy by Rick R. Reed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The emotions in this story were so real and raw and powerful. Two broken souls both fighting to be better, hurting others in the process. How much forgiveness can be expected when you've caused so much hurt? This story is about second chances and mending what's broken to be deserving of them.

Jimmy is a recovering addict. It's been two years and he's got it together. But when Marc walks into his cafe and asks for a cinnamon roll, Jimmy has to figure out if he's worthy a second chance.

Marc has a sense of deja vu when it comes to Jimmy but can't place why. Could he be one of his many hookups? The feeling of rightness he gets from Jimmy overpowers his judgement and after 48 hours, he's left back in a place where he felt he'd been at his worst.

I loved Miriam, Jimmy's sponsor. I loved Kevin, Jimmy's roommate. In fact, each and every side character had something remarkable to add to their story, something that shifted the axis of their worlds. This was very well written and thought through with extraordinary depth.

Honestly, this book just gutted me, but the emotional whirlwind was well worth the ending. This is THE book about redemption and forgiveness. It was full of hope and heartbreak and pain, but brought so much light and happiness. Oh, and personally, a nod to the Golden Girls will make me smile every time. As well as this beautiful cover.

Recommended to everyone. Amazing work of art.



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The Accidental Baker by Clare London
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Clare London has found a way to create a fairytale town with quaint shop owners and neighbors and blooming romance in a manner of just a few pages.

This short novella contains 4 separate stories, all revolving around some misplaced chocolate bunnies. Each tale has it's own meet cute and sweet little love story that will melt your heart.

My favorite was Jez and Eric. Eric has a bit of social anxiety/awkwardness/issues and he runs into Jez, his bedding and cardboard box sitting in the store's entry. They calm each other, tell jokes, laugh and find that life can give you good days with the bad.

I had so much fun reading these stories. A recommended sweet treat!

*Galley copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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The Well-Dressed Werewolf by Gillian St. Kevern
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gillian St. Kevern is masterful at creating Victorian style stories, but this was much more than just a murder mystery. This was a labyrinth of twists and turns, leaving you wondering until the very end.

Told in single person POV, we meet Felix Wood, the valet/best friend/lover of Robin, whom he's known since childhood. At the full moon prior to Robin's 21st birthday, they are invited to stay at the country estate of Westaway, who has more tricks and secrets up his sleeve than anyone had thought possible.

When half the men turn to werewolves and the other half their caretakers, the sudden security measures aren't enough to keep everyone alive. But who is murdering their friends and why?

While this was more of a mystery/thriller/suspense, there was a hint of romance behind the scenes, which was just enough to tide me over and leave the story feeling emotionally sated. I loved the introduction of werewolves to this series, as well as a hidden society of caretakers. It was an exciting read infused with suspense and action and had me guessing from start to finish. Very well done.

*Galley copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *

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Hidden in Darkness by Alice Winters
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book: 4 stars

Narration: 5 stars

I have never laughed so hard listening to a book in my life. Felix and his pranks just killed me!

As much as I enjoyed the story I think the audio was the way to go here! Joel Leslie was just sublime. He had sass and grit and snark and pulled off comedy and timing flawlessly.

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A Light in the Darkness by Alice Winters
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I totally humiliated myself over a couple of days at the gym while listening to this. I had to put the weights down I was laughing so hard.

Felix is his typical bratty, snarky, mean, fabulous self as he and Lane move to California to be closer to Lane's family. They move into a new home, become somewhat domesticated and find that life together is somehow never a walk in the park.

I loved this story, but felt like the scene towards the end with the psycho murderer putting them through a game was a bit long and weird for me. I really wanted to fast forward through it, but was afraid I'd miss something. Because of this section alone, I gave the book 4 stars.

I give the narration 5 stars because Joel Leslie was anything but boring. His whiny version of Felix did me in. Every time he said, "Laaaaaane!" I died. It was just the perfect amount of masculine, deep and throaty for Lane and jovial and petulant for Felix. He was a master at playing out this story.

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