I ❤️ Yaoi: The Royal Fiancé by Asuma Risai & Kamon Saeko

Ohayou gozaimasu! This week's yaoi selection is
The Royal Fiancé by Asuma Risai & Kamon Saeko.

Honami Kairi's fate changes when he accepts an offer from an old man to work for a rich family as a housekeeper. The low-level job suddenly transforms into an arranged engagement to his schoolmate, the foreign Royal Prince Shou! It's a fairytale with a twist!

This is quite a sweet fairytale. At times I wanted to shake Shou because of his treatment of the often confused and awkward Kairi. Misunderstandings and past hurts really clouded Shou's perception of Kairi, who was always sweet, kind and helpful to everyone around him.

The story is pretty predictable, but that didn't make it any less enjoyable. There were secondary storylines I found intriguing that I believe deserve a manga of their own, especially the story involving the King and his handsome secretary, Mifune! The artwork in this manga was absolutely gorgeous; the characters were very visually appealing and the landscapes were beautiful.

~ M

Get Out of the Kitchen by FunkyinFishnet

Get Out of the Kitchen by FunkyinFishnet

As one of the head chefs in Thrace, Agron strives for excellence in all his dishes. When his co-worker informs him that food blogger, Nasir Attasi, has just arrived for a meal, Agron's confidence is shaken. Not only is Nasir a force to be reckoned with as a food critic, but Agron also harbors the biggest crush on him. Will Agron be able to catch Nasir's attention or will his nervousness make him crash and burn?

I really liked this story! As a foodie, reading fanfic set in a restaurant setting is right up my alley! I enjoyed seeing how awkward Agron became when he discovered that the man of his dreams, and the person that could potential make or break him and restaurant, was sitting in the dining area.

This is a very uncomplicated and fun story that will certainly bring a smile to your face!

~ M

Book Review: Paint the Sky by Lily G. Blunt

For the past couple of years, while studying at university, Ben has been admiring fellow student, Vinnie, from afar. He thinks he's absolutely beautiful and is often mesmerized by Vinnie's focus on his art. When he finally plucks up the courage to talk to his crush, the two men discover not only their deep affection for each other, but also how much they have in common. However, demons from the past could threaten to tear them apart.

I enjoyed this latest work from Lily G. Blunt. All of the characters are very likeable, made me want to know more about them and ultimately care about their well being. The relationship between Ben and Vinnie started out quite sweet and reminded me of the days gone by when people were courted and treated like they were the best thing in the world by perspective suitors. I do wish that readers could have learned a little more about Ben's and Vinnie's backstories.

As is often the case, miscommunication causes a rift, but I so desperately wanted to know why Vinnie acted the way he did, particularly when it came to his new friend James. I don't blame Ben for reacting the way he did and was surprised by Vinnie's immediate, petulant overreaction.

The secondary characters were just as delightful, if not more. Vinnie's two older brothers, Finn and Theo, were adorable, complex men who I'd love  to read more about in the future, if possible.

All in all, this is a great story that immediately pulled me into the characters' lives and made me truly care about each and every one of them. By the way, how gorgeous is that cover? I love it!

3.75 stars

~ M

The author provided a copy of the Paint the Sky in exchange for an honest review.

Buy Links
Amazon US | Amazon UK

Waking Up with Amnesia by spooktacus

Waking Up with Amnesia by spooktacus

When Agron wakes up in a hospital bed, he's confused, sore and disoriented. He cannot believe his eyes and ears when he discovers that the ethereal beauty sitting next to his bed is not there to see him, but is also his husband!

This cute one shot is based on the viral video of a man waking up after surgery and being completely surprised and elated that the woman next to him is his wife. I really enjoyed this slightly different portrayal of that situation. Agron's reactions are hilarious, and you can't help but giggle with Nasir as Agron amusingly struggles with fact that such a hot guy married him! If you're looking for something short, sweet and fluffy, this is definitely the fanfic for you!

~ M

I ❤ Yaoi: Nar Kiss by Nekono Mariko

Hello, yaoi lovers! This week's selection is Nar Kiss by Nekono Mariko.

Honjou Naru is an 18-year-old young man studying at Libre University. For his entire lifetime, he never once had a girlfriend. This is because of his abnormality, his narcissism, which only happens if he sees a reflection of himself. To prevent that, he needs to wear contacts all the time. One day his contact falls out and is stepped on by the most handsome guy in the school, Takashina Mamoru! This chance encounter changes his life forever...

I have to say that I was very pleasantly surprised by this manga. The whole dual personality/narcissism aspect is quite humorous! Honjou is absolutely adorable (well, when he isn't waxing poetic about himself in the mirror lol) and Takashina is a pure sweetheart. If you're looking for a sweet and fluffy manga to read, with a little comedy mixed in, Nar Kiss is the perfect choice!

~ M

Things Are Made to Be Broken by BokerFan

Things Are Made to Be Broken by BokerFan

Nasir is kidnapped and tortured for days by a sadistic serial killer, and his family and Agron are at their wit's end. When Nasir manages to escape, his physical injuries are extensive, but it's the mental trauma that worries Agron the most. It also doesn't help that he and Nasir broke up days before the kidnapping because of Agron's trust issues. He is now more determined that ever to be there for Nasir and atone for his horrible behavior.

Even though this is a great story that captured my attention and kept me on the edge of my seat, it is rife with angst. Your heart will break over and over again as Nasir tries to move on with his life after surviving such a harrowing experience. Even though he is found and can begin his recovery, there is still a mysterious force out there still wanting to hurt him. I look forward to the next chapter and seeing this crime mystery unfold.

~ M

Book Review: Dakota Skies by Taylin Clavelli

Set in the 19th century, twins Jamie (Jay) and Anna Carter have recently taken over as co-sheriffs in the town of Blackrock. Due to his family history in the town, as well as the secret he's been carrying around for years, Jamie is burned out. He soon decides to leave home and become a bounty hunter. His skill at tracking down criminals is unmatched, and he soon builds quite a reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

After crossing into Native American territory, Jay is aided by a mysterious stranger who provides much needed survival advice and eventually saves his life. Extremely grateful to the handsome stranger, Jay convinces Kit to be his traveling companion. The sheriff in Jay soon comes out as he tries to solve the puzzle of this enigmatic man who has not only captured his attention, but his heart as well.

Kit is also hiding a secret that could mean life or death for him. Even though he knows the dangers of traveling with a known bounty hunter and former sheriff, he can’t seem to let Jay go, enjoying his company and the entertainment he and his horse, Houston, provide. Not only could Kit's secret destroy his life and eradicate his freedom, it could also rip apart the bond he’s formed with Jay.