It's You I Need by Munchine

It's You I Need by Munchine

Edward is in a very bad situation. He does everything his boyfriend, James, asks of him, but it's never good enough. Jasper is searching for a connection, and is beginning to give up hope. Music brings the two men together, but will Jasper be able to show Edward that relationships and love aren't supposed to hurt?

Even though it's still in its infancy, this story already has me wanting more. The first chapter is heartbreaking as readers see a glimpse at the hell Edward endures on a daily basis. I'm looking forward to reading more because I can't wait to see how Edward and Jasper's friendship grows, and if Edward will be able to leave his toxic and potentially deadly relationship with an abuser.

~ M

Book Review: A Slice of Love by Andrew Grey

Marcus Wilson runs a fairly new bakery, A Slice of Heaven, in the quaint town of Carlisle, PA. The business is slowly growing, but if he doesn't generate additional business, he could potentially close down within three months. Gregory Southland, who we met in book two of the "Of Love" series, A Serving of Love, is relatively happy in his current job, but is looking for some additional part-time work for some extra cash. When his good friend and ex, Sebastian, suggests he help out Marcus in his bakery, he jumps at the chance. Little did either man know that their meeting would lead to something very special.

Andrew Grey never fails with this series. The characters are complex, imperfect, and just overall good. I appreciated Marcus' work ethic and desire to build his business into a very successful venture. Gregory was particularly poignant because he refused to allow his situation (being HIV positive) dampen his outlook on life or slow him down.

The romance aspect of the book was really quite sweet and didn't seem contrived or forced down the reader's throat. The slow progression of the realtionship between Marcus and Gregory was refreshing and their own personal issues were handled in a respectful and realistic manner.

I would highly suggest this book for any Andrew Grey fan as well as those who appreciate stories about two people in love who rise above their circumstances.

Buy A Slice of Love here and here.

~ M

Coming Home by jasward26

Coming Home by jasward26

After moving back to Forks for a new teaching job, Jasper meets a man at the club with mesmerizing green eyes and spends and incredible, passionate night with him. The next morning Edward is gone and Jasper can't help but feel the sting because he thought they truly had a connection. Weeks later, on his first day in the classroom, he comes face-to-face with the green-eyed man once again. Only this time, he's Jasper's student.

So far I'm really enjoying this story. It will be interesting to see how Jasper and Edward deal with their situation and if they'll pursue a relationship in secret. I can't to find out!

~ M

Book Review: Truth or Lie by Lynn Lorenz

When firefighter, Travis Conners, lays eyes on his nephew's second grade teacher, Anthony Pappas, he's instantly smitten with the sweet, passionate and adorable man. Their connection is undeniable, but both men are plagued with insecurities: Travis feels he's not smart enough to be with someone like Anthony, and Anthony can't believe someone as model-gorgeous and hunky as Travis would give him the time of day. Anthony also has the otherworldly ability to know when someone is lying to him. Will the two men be able to overcome their insecurities and accept a potentially awesome relationship?

I thought this was a really sweet story. It's a very quick read, but I felt like I knew the characters. Both Travis and Anthony were great guys and were even better together. The paranormal aspect to the plot seemed a little forced and out of nowhere, but it also provided a catalyst for the "big misunderstanding", which, in my opinion, was heart wrenching, especially for Anthony. All in all, I really enjoyed this book.

Buy Truth or Lie here and here.

~ M

Book Review: The Fight for Identity (The Good Fight #3) by Andrew Grey

In the third book of The Good Fight series, recent college graduate, Will Martin, returns home to the ranch where he had some of his happiest memories growing up. After his grandfather's death, Will's father, Kevin, takes over the business. Never seeing eye to eye on much of anything, Will reluctantly returns home hoping to improve his relationship with his father and build the business. For as long as Will can remember, his father has had an intense hatred for the Sioux tribe of Native Americans who use a section of the Martins' land for their annual sacred ceremony. For the past two years, he's denied them access to the land, but Will is determined to put a stop to that because he knows keeping them away is just plain wrong. It also helps that the handsome and regal Takoda has befriended him. As Will and Takoda embark on a secret relationship, they try to uncover the mystery behind Kevin's hatred while trying to preserve the land Takoda's people hold so dear.

This is definitely my favorite book of the series so far. It has the right amount of angst (without being overwhelming) romance and plot. I really enjoyed seeing the relationship between Will and Takoda grow and blossom into something truly special. Kevin is easy to dislike, but at the same time there is an intense sadness and bitterness he harbors. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a great romance with an interesting and attention-grabbing plot!

p.s. It was also great to briefly see or hear about the other couples from the previous two books! I look forward to reading more from this wonderful series!

4.5 stars

Buy Links
Dreamspinner Press | Amazon

Slashessed reviews of The Good Fight (The Good Fight #1) and The Fight Within (The Good Fight #2).

~ M

English Knight, Brazilian Days by D.Kinney

English Knight, Brazilian Days by D.Kinney

When Riley's family takes in exchange student, Edward, his life is forever changed. He learns a lot about himself, Edward and putting your heart on the line.

This is a beautiful story. The way that Riley and Edward's relationship grows is lovely to watch. Even though neither Riley nor Edward is perfect, but they're perfect together. I highly recommend you take a little while and get to know these wonderful characters. You won't be disappointed! This is definitely one of my all-time favorites!

~ M

Book Review: I Like 'Em Pretty (N'awlins Exotica Series #1) by Michael Mandrake

2.5 stars

When Detective Frankie Choteau is called to investigate an alleged suicide, he never thought he'd be so strongly attracted by the victim's lover. He finds Kajika Fortier absolutely breathtaking, from his long, ebony hair to his smooth caramel skin. Even though Kajika had nothing to do with his lover's suicide, he's still part of an investigation, and therefore off limits. It also doesn't help that Frankie is still firmly in the closet and pretending to be in a relationship with his partner, Kenina. Will he let go of his fears and pursue the man he wants or will Frankie always remain in the closet and unhappy?

This book was a really easy read and captured my attention at spots. However, I found the vernacular language excessive. I also felt the word, "damn" was used a little too often to show surprise, anger, sadness and pleasure throughout the story. I fully understand that the author was trying to immerse the reader into the setting, but, for me, it was overused.

Frankie's partner, Kenina, was quite an unlikeable character. I couldn't really feel sorry for her because she knew the truth going into the situation and chose to ignore it, thinking she could change Frankie. When she didn't get her way, she became quite hateful and spiteful. I often wondered why Frankie didn't just tell her off once and for all, and how someone who called herself Frankie's best friend and loved him so much would do and say such ugly and hurtful things. It seemed like he walked on eggshells with her too often, and I think that gave her license to act they way she did - she knew she'd get away with most of it because there were no consequences.

The author provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Buy I Like 'Em Pretty here.

~ M

Mismatches by D. Kinney

Mismatches by D. Kinney

Jasper learns that the only man he's ever loved, but lost, Edward, has found someone new and is considering moving in with the man. Heartbroken, frustrated and ashamed, Jasper holds on to hope that he can somehow convince Edward to take him back, but considering how their relationship ended, a reconciliation may be impossible.

I was captivated by the story right from the start! It will be interesting to see how it all plays out and if Edward will even give Jasper the time of day after he hurt him so badly by refusing to come out and show their love for one another publicly. I can't wait to see what happens next!

~ M

Boys, Books and Library Fun by beckybrit

Boys, Books and Library Fun by beckybrit

Working at the library can be one boring gig. However, time seems to move a little faster when a certain Edward Cullen stops by. Infatuated with the quiet and slightly nerdy student, Riley does his best to lay on the charm. When he finally gets Edward all alone amongst the books, he ensures Edward never forgets there's more to the library than just studying and reading.

I really enjoyed this story! It's full of fluff, UST and sweet guys you can't get enough of. I liked watching the slow progression of Riley and Edward's relationship, and the payoff was well worth the wait. Be sure to check out this yummy story!

~ M

Same Love by eddiebell69

Same Love by eddiebell69

As Jake prepares to meet the love of his life at the altar, he remembers the obstacles he and Edward have overcome in order to reach this point in their lives.

Same Love is a short and sweet story in a collection of drabbles. In just a small number of words, eddiebell69 is able to capture the anxiety, joy and immense love Jake, Edward and their friends experience on this special day. Definitely check this out!

~ M

Son Knows Best by Pragmatic

Son Knows Best by Pragmatic

Single father, Edward Masen, has a pretty good life, but he wants someone to share it with. His adorable son, Jake, brings light into his life, but Edward's life gets a even brighter when Jasper Whitlock moves in next door. Even though he's attracted to Jasper, Edward is still apprehensive about pursuing a relationship. However, with the help of a dog and a rambunctious little boy, Edward and Jasper are thrown together in various situations and slowly grow closer.

This story is absolutely adorable and will give you a warm feeling in your chest. Edward and Jasper's UST is great to watch and so often I wanted to reach through my computer screen and give Jake a big hug. He is just too cute! If you're looking for a feel good story that will bring a smile to your face, this is the one for you!

~ M

Don't Look Back by Lletya

Don't Look Back by Lletya

When Edward meets Jasper while on his shift at a restaurant, he is immediately intrigued by the quiet, shy and melancholy man. He wants to know more about him, but an accident cuts their interaction short. When Jasper reappears hours later to apologize for his behavior, Edward take the opportunity to establish contact again in the future. Much to his delight, Jasper agrees.

So far, this story can only be described as sweet. There is still so much to learn about the characters and Lletya has only just given us a small taste. I'm anxiously awaiting the next chapter to see what's going on in both Edward's and Jasper's lives respectively. I can't wait!

~ M

It's All for You by xgoodxgirlxgonexbadx

It's All for You by xgoodxgirlxgonexbadx

Ever since he graduated from high school, Edward has stayed as far away from his hometown as humanly possible. He earned his college degree and now runs a very successful business. When his little sister, Alice, asks him to join the family for the final planning stages of her wedding, he begrudgingly agrees. Much to his surprise, the person who made him turn his back on everything is the very person his sister is marrying: Jasper. They have a secret and difficult past, and Jasper seems determined to make Edward's life hell. Will Edward be able to make it through the wedding or will he lose it once and for all and lash out at the person who arouses and disgusts him at the same time?

Talk about pulling at the heartstrings! This story really puts your emotions through the ringer. I
immediately sympathized with Edward and his feelings of frustration, anger, discomfort and resignation. Jasper, on the other hand, is very hard to like and is, at times, a downright jerk to Edward. The story is still in its early stages, but I can't wait to see what happens next. This should be an interesting ride!

~ M

The Chains That Bind Us by Hank's Lady

The Chains That Bind Us by Hank's Lady

Actor, Edward Cullen, figured he had a pretty good life. He's had a profitable career as a child actor and transitioned into adulthood by taking on more serious roles. However, he feels stilted because he's pressured to take roles that his father, director Carlisle Cullen, chooses for him. On top of the stress of his career, he's just learned that his girlfriend, Bella, has cheated on him with her co-star. Wanting to get away from it all, Edward turns to the one person who could possibly pull him out of his depression, Jacob Black, his former hero, mentor and crush.

Here's another great story from Hank's Lady, except this one takes a page out of real life. It's still in its early stages, but I'm already invested in these characters and their happiness...and Bella's demise professionally and socially. lol I also love the fact that Jacob is older, wiser and more experienced. Edward looks up to him, which makes this story even more intriguing. You won't be disappointed with this one! Check it out!

~ M