Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween!

This is one of my favorite times of the year! I love snuggling under a blanket and watching cheesy slasher films...which I've been doing for the past two weeks thanks to AMC's marathons of the Friday the 13th and Halloween franchises!

What are some of your favorite Halloween traditions, and what are some of your favorite scary movies?

~ M

Book Review: A Holiday Job Zombie Run (Holiday Jobs that Don't Suck #12) by Jackie Nacht

Drake, a confirmed bachelor who only believes in one night stands, is shocked when one of his recent conquests stirs something inside of him he cannot deny. Wilson (or Will to his friends) has harbored a secret crush on Drake since he first saw him. He's aware of Drake's reputation, but he can't help but want to experience even a small taste of his crush's affections, knowing deep down that nothing could ever become of it.

I've enjoyed all of the Holiday Jobs that Don't Suck series so far, so I was excited to discover this new installment. I liked that Will was able to "tame the beast" if you will, and Drake was actually quite endearing once you got past his reputation. The haunted house scene was hilarious and definitely showed a different side to Drake! I thought the development of Drake and Will's relationship was rushed, but I chalk that up to the short length of the story as a whole (34 pages on my tablet). All in all this was a solid, cute Halloween-themed story that brought a smile to my face.

Buy links
eXtasy Books | Amazon

~ M

The Keys by Gaia_bing

The Keys by Gaia_bing

After months of fighting and lack of communication, Agron and Nasir have decided it would be best if they parted ways. However, saying their final goodbyes is so much harder than they imagined.

Wow! For a relatively short one-shot, this story packs an emotional punch! You will feel Agron and Nasir's pain as they try to come to grips with the fact that they are longer be a couple. Will they be able to let go, or is there a small spark of hope for the future? Definitely check out this quick read that will pull you in immediately!

~ M

I ❤ Yaoi: Heart no Kakurega by Natsume Isaku

Greetings, friends! Today's yaoi review is Heart no Kakurega by Natsume Isaku!

Izumi returns from a business trip to find his apartment ransacked to the bone. Practically penniless, he moves into the only shelter he can afford: a room in a battered multi-family complex. As if the less-than-livable conditions weren't bad enough, he has to put up with his new weird, rude and tactless neighbors - and one of them is Haruto, the building superintendent.

This is a pretty cute story about a man who moves into an apartment complex full of misfits and weirdos. Even though they drive him crazy at times, he does (kind of) consider them friends, especially the building manager, Haruto, who is the typical expressionless love interest who really has a heart of gold. I look forward to reading more about Izumi and Haruto as well as the other neighbors!

~ M

Mine and Mine Alone by venomedveins

Mine and Mine Alone by venomedveins

Nasir has an interesting conversation with a fellow rebel about Agron and matters of the heart.

After having my heart shattered by venomedveins' latest installment of her Fire Starter series, I desperately needed something to life my spirits. This one-shot was the perfect remedy.

Short, sweet and very cute, I found myself smiling as Nasir talked to new rebel, Lycus, about the man who owns his heart. I don't want to give too much away, but definitely check it out. I know you'll enjoy it!

If you haven't already, also check out venomedveins' Fire Starter series! It's so good!

~ M

Slashsessed Loves... Book Review Round-Up!

Slashsessed Loves... Book Review Round-Up!

Just in case you missed one of my book reviews over the past few weeks, I thought I'd consolidate them into one handy dandy post, so you can you read them at your leisure! I've read some really great books recently, so I hope you try at least one, or all, of them out!

p.s. How utterly adorable is Pana Hema Taylor in The Brokenwood Mysteries? *swoon*

• Dakota Skies by Taylin Clavelli ~ 4 stars
• Paint the Sky by Lily G. Blunt ~ 3.75 stars
• Secret Energy by Chris T. Kat ~ 3 stars
• Yakuza Pride by H.J. Brues ~ 3 stars

~ M

Book Review: Yakuza Pride by H.J. Brues

Kenneth Harris has spent most of his life in Japan and has absorbed the culture, language and customs. Unfortunately, he never quite fits in regardless of where he is. He stands out in Japan due to his pale skin and blond hair, and he also stands out in America due to his adoption of Japanese customs and the fact that he's gay. When he meets a mysterious and incredibly sexy man at a party, his life is turned upside down because the man he finds himself uncontrollably attracted to is an underboss in the Yakuza, Shigure Matsunaga.

As a fan of criminal organizations like the Mafia, this book was right up my alley. Japanese culture is also something I find fascinating, especially as a fan of manga and anime. This love story between a gruff Yakuza and the somewhat shy American (aka gaijin) was actually pretty sweet and very steamy.

While I did enjoy the story as a whole, there were some problems.

• I sometimes found that there was way too much detail and narration. There were entire scenes which just consisted of characters, mostly Yukuza officials, talking to each other. In my opinion, many of those scenes didn't really add much to the story and I found myself skimming through those parts.
• My biggest gripe is the fact that almost 40% of book consists of the kidnapping and torture of Ken. The scenes, graphic and extremely detailed, dragged on for so long that I longed for a reprieve.
• Certain things that happened towards the end of the book seemed very rushed, especially given the fact that one of the MCs had just been tortured and tied up in a basement for days.
• There were great action sequences that held my interest, but then those moments were stilted with more narration or long scenes of dialogue.

The MCs were interesting and complex in their own ways, but I think Shigure's employee, Kotaro, was a stand-out character. His youthful innocence, excitement and passion was a joy, especially when much of the story was so heavy and serious.

All in all, I enjoyed this read, but I think at least 50 - 100 pages could have been cut to tighten up the story.

Buy links
Dreamspinner Press | Amazon

~ M

Nasir the Beautiful by Gayforkurt

Nasir the Beautiful by Gayforkurt

Nasir is an up and coming star on the Broadway stage. Everyone loves him and his performances dazzle. Agron is tasked with representing him, but when a tragic accident occurs, he allows his past demons to cast judgement on the star.

This one shot is Gayforkurt's first attempt at Spartacus fanfiction and I think she did a great job. The emotions of both Agron and Nasir were successfully portrayed (at one point I wanted to strangle Agron for his pigheaded attitude towards Nasir), and I really enjoyed the NYC theater setting. Hopefully Gayforkurt will continue to write Nagron fanfiction, and I look forward to her future works. Definitely check out this cute story!

~ M

I ❤️ Asanaga Fuugetsu, Shodouka Desu by Kitazawa Kyou

Good morning! Today's yaoi feature is
Asanaga Fuugetsu, Shodouka Desu by Kitazawa Kyou.

First-rate looks, third-rate ability... presenting the pessimistic calligrapher: Fuugetsu Asanaga.

Passionate talent agency manager Oda-san, who fell in love at first sight with Asanaga-san, enthusiastically urged him, "How about you make your debut in the entertainment world?"

For the first time in life, Asanaga-san's heart throbbed with joy at being needed by someone, only "...is it only my outward appearance that's important to him?"

Although only one chapter is available at this time, I thought this manga, so far, is sweet and heartwarming. I felt so bad for Asanaga and his thoughts of self-loathing and bouts of low self-esteem. I firmly believe Oda is going to help Asanaga be the man he's always wanted to be and I can't wait to see what happens!

3.5 stars

~ M

Anniversary by Gaia_bing

Anniversary by Gaia_bing

It's Nasir and Agron's anniversary and Agron intends to make it the best night possible for the man he loves.

Fluff, fluff and more fluff! I found myself uncontrollably smiling as Agron did his absolute best to ensure that he made his anniversary with Nasir perfect. I know the word "aww" will fall from your lips by the time you reach the end of the his drabble-esque one shot!

~ M

Book Review: Secret Energy by Chris T. Kat

Immediately following the events of Secret Chemistry, Tim's younger brother, Robin, finds himself sequestered from the world due to the fact that members of his pack are hunting hybrids. Robin is pure-blood, but he also possesses powers others in the pack would like to extinguish. Tim struggles with trying to protect his hybrid mate, Jay, and keep his feisty little brother in line.

While on a rare run through the forest without his protective brother by his side, Robin discovers his mate. The only problem is that his mate isn't a wolf, but a hybrid wolf/bear.

Peter has been searching for his mate for literally hundreds of years. Just when he thought all hope was lost, a sarcastic, rebellious young man crashes into his life and changes it forever. However, the joy of mating is short-lived when Tim, Jay and Jay's father are viciously attacked.

I enjoyed Secret Chemistry when I originally read it a couple of years ago and hoped Chris T. Kat would write Robin's story. He was adorable and made me want to know more about him, so you can imagine my excitement when I learned of this book. The writing is engaging and kept me on the edge of my seat much of the time, and it was nice to see Tim and Jay again, who play quite a large role in this book. The emotional roller coaster many of the characters experience is heartbreaking and their pain is palpable.

Two Miserable People Meeting at a Wedding by spooktacus

Two Miserable People Meeting at a Wedding by spooktacus

Nasir has been dragged to a wedding by his best friend, Naevia. He's only in attendance as a favor to her, and he couldn't care less about the festivities...until he sees a giant of a man with a bright smile and adorable dimples.

This is just the type of story that can bring you out of a bad mood. It's sweet, funny and the characters are adorable! If you don't fall in love with Nasir, I don't know what to tell you! Give this delightful one-shot a try!

~ M

I ❤ Yaoi: Hana no Mizo Shiru by Takarai Rihito

Good morning, yaoi lovers! This week's manga is Hana no Mizo Shiru by Takarai Rihito.

Arikawa Youichi's life at university is going just fine. He isn't having any trouble with his classes, he has plenty of friends, and even a cute girlfriend named Kanami. Then one day he meets Misaki. Misaki Shouta is a reserved, stand-offish fellow but for some reason Youichi can't seem to get him out of his mind. In fact, he can't seem to stay away. When he lands a job working in a lab with Misaki, it seems more than just the flowers are about to bloom. But will they recognize their emotions for what they are, and have the courage to accept it?

I'm about halfway through this manga and it is actually quite sweet. Misaki constantly rebuffing Arikawa's friendship and advances is a little frustrating at times, but I know his actions are due to something traumatizing that happened in his past. I look forward to reading more about this adorable couple!

3.5 stars

~ M

Guest Post: Louise Lyons' One Snowy Night (Stranded: A Wayward Ink Anthology)

Hi, I’m Louise Lyons. Thank you so much for having me on Slashsessed to help promote the new anthology from Wayward Ink Publishing, of which I’m delighted to be a part. My short story, One Snowy Night, is one of many great stories in this book.

Stranded – from Wayward Ink Publishing

Release Date: October 10, 2014

Buy Link

DEFINITION:

adjective

* (of a boat, sailor, or sea creature) left aground on a shore.

      "a stranded whale"
* left without the means to move from somewhere.

"he offers a lift to a stranded commuter"

*~*~*

The boys in this collection of short stories have most definitely been left STRANDED!

They’ve been shipwrecked and abandoned.

Marooned and cast away.

And left helpless and high and dry.

But you should never underestimate the tenacity of the human heart…

STORIES INCLUDED:

CRAVING STAINS

Alina Popescu

Trapped since birth in a sterile, hospital-like apartment, Wynn longs to break free to experience the world.

Enter Doyle.

But is Doyle real, or is he just a figment of Wynn’s imagination?

*~*~*

SAY CHEESE

Michael P. Thomas

Sitcom sensation Felix Medrano, America's Sweetheart, throws a star-studded surprise party for his sweetheart, beanpole barkeep Grover Shepherd.

It’s a smash, save for one detail: Shep is a no-show.

Who’d have thought it would be so hard to pop the question?

Book Review: A Nanny for Nate by Lisa Worrall

This is an absolutely adorable story. Parker, recently widowed when his husband was killed in a motorcycle accident, hires nanny, Jake, to help care for his son, Nate. As the three individuals grow closer, Parker and Jake develop feelings for one another. However, Parker feels like he's somehow betraying the memory of his deceased husband, Darren, by pursuing anything with Jake.

I found all three of the main characters in this story delightful. Jake was the perfect tall, dark and handsome hero who swoops in and helps a broken family finally heal and move forward. Nate brought a smile to my face and was very cute.

A Nanny for Nate was a quick read that definitely left me with warm and fuzzy feelings. :)

Buy Links
Amazon| Barnes & Noble

~ M

Thaw Your Frozen Heart by whendidthisshowbecomemylife

Thaw Your Frozen Heart by whendidthisshowbecomemylife

After a tragic accident claims Rei's mother's life, he shuts down and closes himself off from all of his friends. Nagisa wants so desperately to help his best friend, but Makoto and Haru suggest giving him a little space. He begrudgingly agrees, but still feels horrible. He wants his best friend back and will do anything to thaw Rei's shattered heart.

I recently became a fan of the Free! Iwatobi Swim Club anime series and two of my favorite characters just happen to be Rei and Nagisa...well, I like all the characters, but these two are incredibly sweet and adorable. My heart broke as I watched Rei and Nagisa struggle with their feelings of loss, betrayal and pain. I cheered for Nagisa as he shamelessly pulled out all the stops to bring the Rei he knows and loves back from the dark hole that consumed him. I highly recommend this emotional, yet sweet story to all Free! fans as well as other readers who may not be familiar with the franchise, but enjoy a good story.

~ M

I ❤ Yaoi: Recipe no Oujisama by Junko

Greetings fellow yaoi lovers! This week's selection is Recipe no Oujisama by Junko.

Second-year culinary student Sakai has always dreamed of opening his own little restaurant and being able to touch people's hearts with his cooking like his grandfather did. Except he's at his limit, fainting in class from overwork and fatigue due to commuting three hours every morning just to get to school, but there's no way he can afford to live closer...until his classmate tells him about an almost too good to be true room that's available for rent nearby. And so begins the story of four misfit roommates.

This manga is a silly romp of a story that will definitely make you chuckle and shake you head at the antics of the characters. Sakai is your typical kindhearted, career-driven character that unexpectedly finds love in the unlikeliest of places. It's short, sweet and a nice read on a rainy afternoon.

~ M

Finding Freedom by Pandora_de_Romanus

Finding Freedom by Pandora_de_Romanus

Nasir has been living in pure hell. His boyfriend, Glaber, manipulates, controls and abuses him on a daily basis, and all Nasir wants is peace. After a particularly bad beating, Nasir's doctor informs him of the gym he operates that teaches fighting and self defense skills. Dr. Spartacus recommends extra physical therapy for his injuries so Nasir can learn to properly defend himself, and maybe one day put an end to his suffering.

Once Nasir arrives he realizes that just about every person who trains or works at the gym has something in common: pain. They've all experienced it, most in very horrific ways. Even though he's apprehensive, Nasir knows that he has do something because there may not be a second chance when it comes to his safety.

I really enjoyed this story. The subject matter is quite dark and heavy, but I was pulled into Nasir's life and experiences. Even though all of the Sparty characters have their own painful stories to tell, it's not overkill. Each person struggled at one point or another, but eventually overcame that adversity. Finding Freedom reminds me of films like Enough and Sleeping with the Enemy, in which you watch the agony the victim endures, but also anxiously anticipate the final showdown between the abuser and survivor. You will very satisfied by the ending.

Since this story is not beta'd, it does contain typos and tense issues. However, don't let that deter you. The story itself is captivating and will keep you on the edge of your seat!

~ M

Slashsessed Loves...

Slashessed Loves...

Can you believe it's already October?!?! This is one of my favorite times of the year because I love the Halloween season! I will be reveling in the showings of Friday the 13th, Halloween and many other horror movies on tv!

• This hilarious Free! Eternal Summer gif!
• These gifs of Pana Hema Taylor from his new project, The Brokenwood Mysteries. So adorable!:)
• figbash's latest fan comic, Itty Bitty Nagron: Nectar. This lady has immense talent!
• This silly gif set of a dog with zero effs to give! LOL

~ M

UPDATE - Book Review: London Calling by E.S. Skipper

Update 1/5/15: I have learned that the author known as E.S. Skipper was discovered to be a fraud who created numerous fake identities, family members, illnesses and deaths in order to further her writing career and garner sympathy. Unfortunately, this person took advantage of people's kindness and connections for her own selfish gain.

I removed my original review from the blog because I do not support nor condone what this author has done. It is shameful and disappointing, and she should not profit from her lies.

Three authors who were involved in this situation explain their experiences with "E.S. Skipper/Emmett S. Skipper/Dylan Wilson".

Lily G. Blunt

Lily Velden

Louise Lyons

~ M

Danger by LaMonica

Danger by LaMonica

Agron and Nasir thoroughly enjoy their first opportunity to be alone, and Agron realizes the depth of this feelings for the man.

What a sweet and passionate story! I loved the way LaMonica gave readers a look inside Agron's head, revealing just how much he cared for Nasir, and how that love could be a blessing and a curse in life of a rebel.

~ M