You're the Beast, I'm the Beauty (of magic & monsters #1) by venomedveins

You're the Beast, I'm the Beauty (of magic & monsters #1) by venomedveins

When Nasir's family and caravan makes its way through the kingdom led by Agron's father, the citizens are intrigued and stunned. Not only do Nasir's people hold great beauty and allure, but they also possess magical powers. In order to move safely through the kingdom, the often tyrannical king strikes a deal with Nasir's father: Nasir in exchange for safe passage. He will be wed to Agron and produce an heir. Nasir is obviously greatly distressed by the news, but there is something about the wild and beastly Agron that piques his interest. How will the two very different people come to terms with their current situation and their growing attraction for one another?

I'm not the biggest fan of the fantasy genre, but this story definitely caught my interest. This is the first story in the "of magic & monsters" series by the highly talented author, venomedveins. She created a world that draws you in. You will immediately find yourself caring deeply for many of the characters and probably hating a few too. ;) Pietros and Duro play pretty significant roles in this story, which is always a treat since they were taken away from us way too soon in the series.

Definitely give this fic, which is turning out to be quite epic, a try! You won't disappointed!

~ M

Book Review: In the Distance (In the Kitchen #3) by Eileen Griffin & Nikka Michaels

After being kicked out and forced to live on the street when he came out to his parents, Tyler Mitchell is slowly rebuilding his life. With the help of his honorary big brothers, Ethan and Jamie, Tyler found a job, acquired an apartment and is attending culinary school. Everything seems to be going in the right direction, but different professional interests and his desire to have the sort of love Ethan and Jamie share weighs heavily on his mind.

Trevor Pratt is rich and successful in all things except love. He nearly lost his friendship with Jamie when he tried to meddle in his relationship with Ethan for selfish reasons. Even though he's no longer in love with his best friend, it still stings. While visiting Seattle on business, Tyler catches Trevor's eye, much to the chagrin on both Ethan and Jamie. Will he be able to prove himself worthy or will he fall back into his old habits?

I first want to say that I did not read the first two books in this series, but I never felt lost. Sure, there were instances in which I wish I had a just a little more information, but I don't think it's completely necessary to read other books first.

I really enjoyed this book and felt that all of the characters were well-developed and complex. The story moved quite steadily and I never found myself bored with the interactions between the main characters or the secondary characters. I was instantly pulled into Tyler, Trevor, Ethan and Jamie's worlds and how they deal with their professional and personal lives.

Shot Throught the Heart by themugwump

Shot Through the Heart by themugwump

After the water gun fight with the Iwatobi team, Rin and Sousuke talk about their potential future together at university.

Oh my! This one shot was so adorable! themugwump perfectly captured each character's essence and made them come to life before my very eyes. I understood Rin's frustration with Sousuke's often vague and apathetic responses to his questions about the future, his shoulder and whether or not he would be able to swim again. However, the last act really tied everything together and made my heart melt. If you're a Sourin shipper, you'll definitely want to give this story a shot.

~ M

I ❤ Yaoi: Sugar Code by Natsume Isaku

Hello all! This week's yaoi feature is Sugar Code by Natsume Isaku.

When Takagi Akira, an owner of an apartment complex, was in town, he ran into a scene where a man, Oodoi, saved an old man from a gang. Akira fell for Oodoi’s manly courage and took him in his apartment. Oodoi found Akira’s apartment comfy and spent time there. Akira thought Oodoi's manly act was now part of the past, but when Akira is harassed by mobs and nearly forced to sell his apartment complex, it was Oodoi who saved his life. Truth is, Oodoi is a yakuza...

I found this manga to be incredible sweet and funny. Oodoi's double life can be confusing at first, but you soon find out that he's a really good guy who has peoples' best interests in mind. I would highly recommend this sweet manga, especially to those who are new to the genre. Check it out!

~ M

To Become Whole by EmeraldSoul

To Become Whole by EmeraldSoul

Agron helps run a ranch that provides hiking and overnight camping services to those who want a taste of the cowboy life. He's had a troubled past and has shut a lot of people out of his life because of it. When a determined camper manages to chip away at the cement wall surrounding Agron's heart, he must finally face his demons and leave the past behind him once and for all.

I've been reading this story for a while now, and with each passing chapter I'm pulled farther into the wonderful storyline and universe EmeraldSoul has created. Both Agron and Nasir are flawed human beings, but together they are incredible. If you're in the mood for a story that has a great mix of angst, romance, humor and sexual tension, this is the story for you!

~ M

Book Review: Sweetness and Strength by J.N. Olsen

While awaiting the arrival of his blind date, Miles slowly comes to realize that he's been stood up. Rather than having his evening ruined, Miles decides to make the most of the situation and having a good meal. All is not lost, however, because he may just find that special someone...in his gorgeous waiter.

Short and sweet, this story will bring a smile to your face. I found myself becoming angry on Miles' behalf at the way he was treated by his blind date, but the arrival of Jordan definitely lifted Miles' (and my) spirits.

Given the short length of the story, there wasn't much time for character development, but it was a nice slice of life tale that made me want to know more about the MCs.

Buy links
Wayward Ink Publishing | Amazon

Wayward Ink Publishing provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

~ M

I Think We Need to Talk by monicalshipscoliver

I Think We Need to Talk by monicashipscoliver

While planning a special evening, Oliver grabs Connor's attention by saying the dreaded phrase "I think we need to talk." Connor immediately thinks the worst, but he's in for an unexpected surprise!

This story truly warmed my heart. It's so sweet and fluffy that I couldn't prevent a big goofy grin from spreading across my face. If you're interested in a Coliver fic that is nothing but adorable fluff, this is story for you!

~ M