Eric and Ellison Gant better known as Sin and Saint were opposite sides of the same coin. They epitomized the nicknames given to them by their friends in the band Executioners. One thing Sin and Saint did well was fight and being inseparable means they have a lot of disagreements, but one thing they agree on is Sheriff Camden Pelter was theirs. The older, stoic man didn’t agree, yet they were determined to change his mind.
Camden Pelter had the daunting job of turning the Powers Sheriff Department around. The residents of the Georgia town didn’t have much faith or respect in the Deputies serving them. That’s where he came in and he was determined to do his job. That was easier said than done with two annoying brothers Sin and Saint who dogged his every step. No way in hell was he getting mixed up in the chaos that were the Gant Twins. Now if only if he could get them to listen and realize they didn’t have a chance of changing his mind.
Since the first mention of Camden Pelter and the twins, I (and tons of other fans of J.M. Dabney) have been waiting for this book. Through story after story, Sin and Saint (Eric and Ellison Gant) have been chasing the older, gorgeous Sheriff of Powers, Georgia only to be rebuffed time and again. Still, we knew that Camden would eventually come to the realization that the twins were his and we’d get that story.
And it would be full of sizzle and probably some kink.
However, I wasn’t expecting some terrific suspense scenes, high action, and some real twists to come our way as well. Sin & Saint (Executioners #4) by J.M. Dabney delivers with a pack, a punch, and a high note on every level as the last story in the Executioners series.
For one thing, we now get up close to the twins. The author delivers more nuanced characterizations with Eric (Sin) and Ellison (Saint), two who may look identical to those who don’t know them but who’s differences extend from the emotional to physical variations that have had an huge impact on one of them. Past histories too that have done the same. Camden Pelter comes in for close inspection in every way as well, from his background and local familial ties to his sexuality…his need to dominate and take care of those he loves.
Then all three men are pulled gently together to form a loving triad quite unlike any of the triads already in existence in the connected series. It’s a slow, hot pace that should leaving you with a need for a fan.
However, Sin and Saint is not just about romance but also the need to tie up some loose ends with regard to the last corrupt Sheriff and his organization. In comes the high action, suspense, and some great twists in the narrative that I just adored. Truly I love it when my expectations are overturned and the plot takes a turn I didn’t expect all of which happened here.
It ends as it should and I was hopelessly overjoyed and looking forward to the beginning of the new series. That would be the Trenton Security series, although I’m not yet sure that’s the name. It will involve the guys in the Trenton group that we’ve meet before and were heavily involved here in this story. And yes, I can’t wait!
So another great series, Executioners comes to an end with Sin & Saint but what an ending it was! A great storyline, a long anticipated romance and triad coupling (can that be with three), and just some wonderful writing that drove this narrative crazily along to an ending that was exactly what I hoped for. All that and more is why I’m highly recommending this story and all the books in the Executioners series by J.M. Dabney.
If you haven’t met her glorious bunch of huge, damaged, sometimes violent men and the ones that love them, there’s no better series to start with that this one. But now you have three series to read before the fourth series start, grab them all up and get reading! I have the list below for you all to check out.
Cover by Winterheart Designs: I love this cover. That’s Sin and Saint personified. Just perfection.
Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Interview with J.M. Dabney
Triads are familiar territory in Powers, Georgia as each series has one, each unique in their own way. Still the triad of Sin, Saint and Camden Pelter has a further twist in that two of the triad is a set of twins. Was that always planned? Will this pattern continue into the next series?
Sin & Saint was always planned as a triad. When I started mentioning them in previous books in my head I couldn’t separate them into two books. Their closeness signaled to me that they’d find a partner to share. Although, they are identical to me they were still individuals with different needs and personalities. As of right now, Trenton doesn’t have triad book, but Scary and Hunter’s books weren’t planned triads either.
You’ve talked somewhat about body positivity and that’s an important element here (and elsewhere in the series). Do you think that message will come across?
To be honest, I hope it comes across well. With Saint his personality was largely focused on his timid nature rather than his softness. Even though I write fiction my focus is to create real people. Having my readers see themselves in the characters. I believe my previous books dealt more with body positivity than Sin & Saint. I kept the emphasis on the differences between the twins rather than their bodies.
As the last book in the Executioners series, you did you feel you accomplished all your goals you wanted for the series? And were all the loose ends tied up narratively that you wanted to close in Sin & Saint?
The last of a series is always the most stressful and bittersweet. I felt I tied up the elements that I needed to while adding new ones, but it’s really up to the readers whether I answered all their unanswered questions. The Executioners were a little heavier in content than Twirled and Brawlers. My goal was to give the Executioners their happy ever after and I believe I accomplished that.
When can we expect the first book in the new series? And who’s the focus?
Trenton Security Series book one is planned to release no later than February 2018. Livingston Francis has made several appearances, his first was in Hunter (Brawlers 4) and he came more out of the shadows in King’s story. Livingston fits my usual character. Damaged and a bit of an asshole. He’s a severely scarred man and how he came to be scarred won’t be revealed until his story.
Although, I showed him quite a bit I tried to keep him as much a mystery as possible. I will say the Trenton Security will contain the usual snark and craziness that readers found in the other three series, but Trenton’s content is darker and possibly triggering in nature. Trenton will be a bit more standalone as it’s the end of the spin-offs but still have the cameos of a lot of familiar names.
Thanks for the great interview. Now more about Sin & Saint….
BLURB
Eric and Ellison Gant better known as Sin and Saint were opposite sides of the same coin. They epitomized the nicknames given to them by their friends in the band Executioners. One thing Sin and Saint did well was fight and being inseparable means they had a lot of disagreements, but one thing they agreed on was Sheriff Camden Pelter was theirs. The older, stoic man didn’t agree, yet they were determined to change his mind.
Camden Pelter had the daunting job of turning the Powers Sheriff Department around. The residents of the Georgia town didn’t have much faith or respect in the Deputies serving them. That’s where he came in and he was determined to do his job. That was easier said than done with two annoying brothers Sin and Saint who dogged his every step. No way in hell was he getting mixed up in the chaos that were the Gant Twins. Now if only if he could get them to listen and realize they didn’t have a chance of changing his mind.
Saint didn’t want to get off the bike. Camden smelled like leather, sweat, and spicy cologne, but it could be the man’s leather jacket that was wrapped tightly around him. He’d dreamed of being that close to Camden for almost three years since he’d seen him the first time. Camden was dressed in tactical gear. Looking badass and sexy, commanding. He’d wanted to crawl into the man’s lap and never get up.
When he’d mounted behind Camden, he’d tried to keep as much distance as possible between them, but Camden moved him closer. His brother saw something he wanted, and he went for it, except when it came to Camden. Sin was as terrified as him but played a good game. They’d never wanted the same person before. They always talked about it, and when it happened, they would be the one for them.
They hadn’t anticipated, well, Sin hadn’t anticipated their one putting up such a fight. He wasn’t like Sin. He wasn’t confident or outgoing, he wanted someone who would love and take care of him—someone to make decisions. Sin joked about his Daddy issues. He knew Sin didn’t mean anything by it, but it hurt.
Camden had told him what to do—that he would eat. That he would sit beside him. He’d gotten hard at the commanding, gruff voice.
His chest hurt as Camden slowed to a stop. The man helped him off, and he stood beside the bike as Camden removed the helmet. He started to remove the jacket.
“No, keep it, I’ll get it next time.”
“Next time?”
“You stop by.”
“Okay.” He started to back away, but Camden’s huge hand wrapped around the back of his neck.
He found himself plastered to Camden’s side. He twisted his hands in Camden’s uniform shirt. Tilting his chin, he waited for the kiss. He wanted those firm, full mouth on his. Calloused fingertips pinched his chin, and the hand on his neck kneaded the muscles.
Another kiss landed on his forehead like before they’d left. Camden pulled back, and he looked into the man’s gorgeous green eyes. He was so close he could see the yellow flecks around the pupils.
“You’re so beautiful.”
Lips brushed his left cheek, then the right, and Camden moved lower until the man’s mouth hovered over his.
“No—”
A hard tug at his hair stopped him.
“I said you’re beautiful, Ellison.”
“Thank you.”
He lowered his gaze then jerked it back up when Camden retreated.
“I’ll wait here until you’re inside.”
J.M. Dabney is a multi-genre author who writes mainly LGBT romance and fiction. She lives with a constant diverse cast of characters in her head. No matter their size, shape, race, etc. she lives for one purpose alone, and that’s to make sure she does them justice and give them the happily ever after they deserve. J.M. is dysfunction at its finest and she makes sure her characters are a beautiful kaleidoscope of crazy. There is nothing more she wants from telling her stories than to show that no matter the package the characters come in or the damage their pasts have done, that love is love. That normal is never normal and sometimes the so-called broken can still be amazing.
Master Sergeant Jeff “Mackey” MacNamara has been waiting for THE ONE for years. First it wasn’t too safe to find a partner and now his schedule is a nightmare with training soldiers and deployments.
Scott Ash has found where he always was meant to be after a brief bout of idealistic do-gooder after college. He loves his job as a child care director, if he could just find someone to love — perfect might cover it.
A chance meeting when Scott is doing a favor for a friend starts them on a journey that could take them to forever, it’s just a matter of waiting.
Sometimes a story, a theme just calls out to an author and together they make a sort of narrative magic. I believe that happens here with Wait for Me by Kris Jacen. With the author’s intimate knowledge as a military spouse and all that implies, it’s use to provide the framework for the romance of Master Sergeant Jeff “Mackey” MacNamara and Scott Ash becomes a foundation not only for these two main characters but for all of the heptad (a close knit group of soldiers) and a retired MWD (military working dog) as well.
The ties that bind and make the necessary support system for the soldiers and spouses that wait are all a deep part of Wait for Me. It starts as the very first steps of a military romance as Jacen shows here if it’s going to succeed, then through the acceptance and establishing yourself as part of support system for each other, the soldiers and those left behind, dogs included. All while keeping the romance and love intact, a very scary and sometimes hard thing to do, made so much easier when others have your back.
The characterizations here are layered, believable, and so full of warmth and life that the time spent with them flies by. I’m not just speaking of Mackey and Scott (although I love them), but all the members of their group, from Mooney to e their spouses, Nibblers (kids), families and sisters, and most of all, a very special retired MWD named Dill, who stole my heart from the get go.
There’s some drama, but mostly it’s about adjustment and life. I have to admit there were times when I wish the author had included pictures of what that unit had to have looked like dressed up for the weddings and yes, I was choked up during the scene when the troops were welcomed back. I defy anyone not to be grabbing for the tissues or remain dry eyed then.
Waiting for You by Kris Jacen feels so real, so heartwarming, like it’s the story the author was meant to write. It feels intimate, loving, touching, and wonderful. I highly recommend it for all lovers of contemporary romance and a love that feels true.
Cover art: Jared Rackler. I love the bottom section with the soldier and dog. That’s perfection.
Sales Links: MLR Press | Amazon (let me know if you find a link)
Book Details:
ebook
Published November 10th 2017 by MLR Press
ISBN139781370266845
I’m a huge fan of the Bluewater Bay MM romance series so I was surprised to see a female on the cover of this one.I love MM and I’m not a fan of adding in an F to that mix, but as it turned out, I need not have worried, since this is principally about Simon and Ian, and Lydia only plays a minor role in one sexual situation.
Secondary characters, including recurring Bluewater Bay characters like Carter and Levi and Hunter and Kevyan and the new characters who helped in Simon’s store, Dexy and Jesse, were all amazing and well-developed. I particularly enjoyed the visit by previous characters! Most of all, I loved the storyline and the brilliant execution of a polyamory relationship involving a woman and two men, with the romance and love between the two men taking the forefront, while keeping both men’s love and friendship for the woman realistic and not detracting at all from the love between the men.
Before I read this I would have said it couldn’t be done, but I was so wrong. Simon and Ian took one look at each other and they were lost in lust.Ian was psyched because he’d found an off-site location where he could rebuild the miniature set he was working on for Wolf’s Landing—and not only a perfect location but a perfect (and perfectly stunning!) man to help with the project. Simon, the owner of End o’ Earth, sells and paints models and miniatures. Watching him do the superlative work on a model when they first meet and seeing that gorgeous face and stunning body—what more could Ian ask for in the perfect specimen of manhood?Well, being unmarried would have been ideal, but Simon is not.
Finding out Simon and Lydia have a polyamory marriage is shocking but it allows the men to be together guilt-free and once Ian gets past the novelty of a lovely, friendly woman not only allowing her husband to have sex with him, but encouraging it?It seems too good to be true.
As time goes by and they learn more each other, Ian and Lydia become friends, and their mutual respect and admiration transcends the romantic relationship developing between Ian and Simon, allowing Ian and Lydia to grow to love one another as well—in a completely different way, of course.But nevertheless, they do eventually find that love is the only word they can use to describe the unique relationship they foster.
I really appreciated the way the author took the time to build this story. The dynamic between the men together, and between each of them individually with Lydia, and then the full threesome together was fantastic.The story was sizzling hot, but it was also tender and loving and compassionate, showing the love of a man and woman, a man and man, and one friend for another.It was just superbly done.I’m totally impressed, and I highly recommend it to lovers of MM romance.
For those who don’t like F in their MM, don’t worry—lady parts aren’t included.At it’s core, the story really is a beautiful romance between Ian and Simon and told in alternating POVs so we get to experience all the emotion—from angst to love.
One more thing: I picked this up because I’ve read all the books in the Bluewater Bay series and I didn’t want to miss one, even though I was worried it was MMF.As I state in my review, that’s really not a concern here.And it most certainly can be read as a standalone despite the fact that a few characters from previous books are included in this one.Not knowing them should not detract from one’s enjoyment of this story so please don’t miss a chance to read this gem.
The colorful cover features all three characters, beautifully drawn by gifted artist L.C. Chase.Lydia stands facing her husband, Simon, and his boyfriend, Ian.It nicely represents the trio who make up this interesting story.
This series is smokin’!Action-packed, nail-biting, heartbreaking—this book has it all.Though there’s not a lot of overt romance to this one, and no sex scenes, there is love—a deep and lasting love that’s developing between Andreas and Darren as well as the love of family.In this one, Andreas’s children are kidnapped so the love of a father for his children is a primary focus of the book, but there’s also the familial love of a brother for another as Darren’s brother, Asher, falls deeper into his disease and the situation becomes critical.As an aside, and without spoilers, we finally find out if Darren has the gene that has caused Asher’s mind to fail at such an early age.
Andreas is still struggling with his healing ankle from the injury in the last book.He’s screwed it up and needed a second surgery—but hang on folks—he’s about to make it worse when his kids are kidnapped virtually right from under his nose.He and his work and life partner, Darren,along with their highly personable and dynamic friend Paula, a detective we met in the last book, explore any and all possible leads to get the kids back.Though their theories are sketchy at first, eventually, with the help of Andreas’s daughter Erin, who manages to get free of the kidnapers, the team is on the right track.A tragic event in Darren’s life sidetracks him temporarily but he’s right back on the job as well.He loves Andreas and his kids and will stop at nothing to help his lover get them back.
This story is very fast-paced, filled with plot twists and turns, excitement, and hair-raising scenarios.I loved every moment and literally couldn’t put it down.I highly recommend this series to all those who enjoy law enforcement drama and romance, especially those, like me, who appreciate a writing team who can build excitement to fever pitch and yet give us a firm foundation to a wonderful pair of men whose love grows stronger with each story.I can’t wait to get my hands on book four!
Cover Artist: Garrett Leigh. Love the gritty black and white nature of the cover.
ebook, 264 pages
Published January 1st 2018 by Riptide Publishing (first published December 30th 2017)
Original TitleReckless Behavior
ISBN139781626496316
SeriesBad Behavior #3
Sequel to Tropical Depression
Stormy Weather: Book Three
Galen and Shane are back in the final installment of the Stormy Weather series, and a tempest of epic proportions is brewing. Once they couldn’t get enough of each other, but now Galen’s long hours are driving a wedge between him and Shane. Lonely and starved for his lover’s attention, bartender Shane falls in with a new crowd that doesn’t have his best interests at heart, and Galen struggles with a workload he can’t manage and an unscrupulous partner who wants to eliminate Shane. He can barely keep his head above water, let alone chart a course home to Shane.
While they’re floundering and trying to hold their relationship together, a hurricane heads for the Florida coast—and they’re directly in the path of the storm. It’s a crisis that will either finally break them apart or remind them how much they stand to lose if they don’t hold on to each other.
Also included is the free novella Bartender Rescue
I’ve loved all three stories about Galen and Shane by B.A. Tortuga but I think that the final one, Hurricane, has to be my favorite. In Hurricane, B.A. Tortuga achieves a balance in the narrative here that I sometimes found missing in the previous stories. In Rainand Whiskey (Stormy Weather, #1) and Tropical Depression (Stormy Weather, #2), each of those novels sometimes felt heavy on the sex and sometimes light on the exposition, no matter how much I loved the hot and heavy between Shane and his man.
In Hurricane, it feels balanced. We feel the stressed out, pushed to the limit relationship dynamics of Galen and Shane broken up intermittently by hot sex scenes. Which interestingly enough only highly how badly the men are doing together. As misunderstanding and just plain ol’ blindness on Galen’s part is tearing them apart, a Hurricane is bearing down on their home, their sanctuary together. It’s a great analogy by the author as it’s where the romance and love started. Their home, bait shack, Goober the basset hound and new friend, even including Vic the alligator…all threatened by outside forces.
We see both sides, Galen’s and Shane’s, and the forces working to pull them apart. All the wonderful elements that have made these men and the location ring true are now as deep seated in Tortuga’s narrative and an ol’ Cypress tree in the swamp. The language, the colloquialisms, they are all in place laying Stormy Weather with authenticity. But it’s the men at the heart of this trilogy (plus new story) that will make you remember them. It’s their love for each other, and their ability to fight for it, even through a hurricane.
I did think the “vacation” element tarried a little too long…I wanted the boys back where they belonged, in their swamp with their dogs and water. I thought the free last mini story was interesting. I was nice to see familiar faces again and see that certain other people too got a chance at love. But I could have happily left them at the end of Hurricane, hoping that Galen and Shane had learned their lessons and settled in for the long run.
Cover Artist: Alexandria Corza. It’s pretty enough but that torso idea is clearly oversued. I wish the shack and maybe even Vic had made an appearance.
So Long 2017! Hello 2018! It’s Our Final 2017 Best of Lists.
suze294
My 5* reads from this year
The Executive Office series, Tal Bauer
Sins of the cities series, KJ Charles
Forever Haunt (Jimmy McSwain 5), Adam Carpenter
This Fire Inside, Jordan Nasser
What It Looks Like, Matthew J Metzger
Wolfsong, TJ Klune
Priddys Tale, Harper Fox
Bitter Legacy, Dal Maclean
Switched, NR Walker
The Definitive Albert J Sterne, Julie Bozza
Reaping Fate, AJ Rose
From Ana:
My Bests: Best Mystery: Kill Game by Cordelia Kingsbridge and Risky Behavior by LA Witt & Cari Z Best Audiobook: Femme by Marshall Thornton Best Cover:Antisocial by Heidi Cullinan Best Contemporary (this is hard to choose, so many good ones): Becoming Kerry by Lynn Kelling, The Impossible Boy by Anna Martin, Off the Ice by Avon Gale and Piper Vaugh, Manic Pixie Dream Boy by KA Merikan and Disease by Hans M Hirshchi Best Dark Theme: Backdoor Politics by CL Mustafic
Amy:
Favorite On-Going Series in 2017
Hexworld by Jordan L. Hawk
Aberrant Magic by Lyn Gala
Offbeat Crimes by Angel Martinez
Bad Behavior by L.A. Witt and Cari Z
Rainbow Cove by Annabeth Albert
Scoring Chances by Avon Gale
and more from Didi:
I’m adding two more lists of mine here, for PNR and May/December (or Age-Gap as one MC’s not into his December yet 😉 ).
Best Paranormal Romance:
– Spectred Isle by KJ Charles
– Hexslayer by Jordan L. Hawk
– Undertow by Jordan L. Hawk
– The Well by Marie Sexton
– Fraud Twice Felt by JT Hall
Best May/December Romance:
– Off the Ice by Avon Gale & Piper Vaughn
– Spun! by JL Merrow
– Trust the Chaser by Annabelle Albert
– Risky Behavior by LA Witt & Cari Z (I cheated, it’s more age-gap than May/December, I think)
– Permanent Ink by Avon Gale & Piper Vaughn
Best of Lists from STRW
More from Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Reviewers:
From Lila:
Looking back on my shelves, The Best of 2017 (according to me) are:
Here are my lists, many and long as I warned everyone. What a year and I still mourn the books I hesitatingly left off. These are listed in absolutely no particular order excerpt that I was scrambling to look at my notes and books kept popping up here and there….
♥︎Best Contemporary Fiction with Romance
Ghost (Executioners #1) by J.M Dabney Joker (Executioners #2) by J.M Dabney Watermelon Kisses by Freddy Mackay There’s This Guy by Rhys Ford Shelter the Sea (The Roosevelt, #2) by Heidi Cullinan Antisocial by Heidi Cullinan Switched by NR Walker Late in the Day (The Vault #2) by Mary Calmes
Micah Johnson Goes West (Get Out #2) by Sean Kennedy House of Cards (Porthkennack #4)by Garrett Leigh Foxglove Copse (Porthkennack #5) by Alex Beecroft Fair Chance (All’s Fair #3) by Josh Lanyon Hawaiian Orchid (The Hawaiians 2) by Meg Amor Snowblind by Eli Easton Who We Are by Nicola Haken Fishy Riotby Lindsey Black Rhino Ash by Lindsey Black Bonfires by Amy Lane Catch and Release (The Release, #3) by B.A. Tortuga
The Stark Divide (Liminal Sky #1) by J. Scott Coatsworth Sūnder (Darksoul #1) by Lexi Ander The Jackal’s House (Lancaster’s Luck #2) by Anna Butler – steampunk
♥︎Best of Fantasy:
His Mossy Boy (Being(s) in Love#8) by R. Cooper Dim Sum Asylum by Rhys Ford The Heart of the Lost Star by Megan Derr Ravens (Inheritance #3) by Amelia Faulkner
♥︎Best Supernatural/Paranormal:
Bitten by Design (Regent’s Park Pack #2) by Annabelle Jacobs Skim Blood and Savage Verse (Offbeat Crimes #3) by Angel Martinez (actually all the books in this series)
♥︎Best Series:
Aisling Trilogy by Carole Cummings (high fantasy) The Hawaiians by Meg Amor (contemporary romance) Offbeat Crimes by Angel Martinez (humor, fantasy, supernatural) Nicky and Noah Mysteries by Joe Cosentino (high camp, high humor, mystery) Inheritance by Amelia Faulkner (fantasy, supernatural) The Kingdom Series (Vol 1 & 2) by RJ Scott (fantasy) Rainbow Cove by Annabeth Albert #gaymers by Annabeth Albert Being(s) in Loveby R. Cooper The Release series by BA Tortuga The Sin Binby Dahlia Donovan (contemporary) The Yakuza Pathseries by Amy Tasukada (contemporary fiction) violent, bloody, brilliant, not romance)
♥︎Great Series Ending:
Sanctuary Series by RJ Scott Texas Series by RJ Scott Mahu by Neil S. Plakcy All’s Fair by Josh Lanyon Werecatseries by Andrew J. Peters Holiday with the Bellskis by Astrid Amara End Street Detectives by RJ Scott (supernatural)
♥︎Holiday Series ~ special mention:Holidays with the Bellskis Series by Astrid Amara (final story just out)
Carol of the Bellskis (Bellskis, #1) by Astrid Amara
Miracle of the Bellskis (Bellskis, #2) by Astrid Amara Wedding Bellskis (Holidays with the Bellskis, #3) byAstrid Amara
♥︎Best Covers:
A Destiny of Dragons (Tales From Verania) by TJ Klune, Artist Paul Richmond Red Fish, Dead Fish (Fish Out of Water#2) by Amy Lane, Artist: Reese Dante
Sunset at Pencarrow (World of Love) by Lou Sylvre and Anne Barwell, Artist: Reese Dante An Island in the Starsby Susan Laine, Artist: Anna Sikorska Antisocial by Heidi Cullinan, Cover art by Natsukoworks, Cover design by Kanaxa Designs. The Lure of Port Stephen by Sydney Blackburn, Artist Natasha Snow Manny Get Your Guy (The Mannies #2) by Amy Lane, Artist: Paul Richmond Comes a Horseman (Echoes Rising #3) by Anne Barwell, Artist: Reese Dante A New Way to Dance by Sean Michael, Artist: Anne Squires The Glamour Thieves by Don Allmon, Artist: Simone
Conned By Jana Denardo, Artist: Melody Pond Sūnder (Darksoul #1) by Lexi Ander, Artist:Kirby Crow The Blacksmith Prince by Beryll & Osiris Brackhaus, Artist: Lady Tiferet Foxglove Copse (Porthkennack #5) by Alex Beecroft, Artist: G.D. Leigh
♥︎
Well those are my choices and I’m sure I’ve even left a quite of few out. How did all of your lists come out? Did you all find some new books to add to your TBR lists on everyone’s Best of Lists? Winner Announcements to come next week as they would get lost and we need to have something to look forward to!
Have a Safe and Happy New Year! See you all in 2018! Happy Reading from Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words to all of you!
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Sunday, December 31- Happy New Eve’s:
So Long 2017! Hello 2018! It’s Our Final 2017 Best of Lists.
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.
A Stella Advent Release Day Review: Eugene and the Box of Nailsby Jaime Samms
Monday, January 1:
Book Blitz: Blackwelder 2164 by Christopher D. J
BLITZ The Calling by MD Neu
RIPTIDE TOUR Reckless Behavior by LA Witt and Cari Z
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Operation Green Card by GB Gordon
A Kai Audiobook Review: Nachos & Hash by Brandon Witt and Dominic Carlos (Narrator)
A MelanieM Review: Hurricane by BA Tortuga
Tuesday, January 2:
Cover Reveal for Shae Connor’s Teaching Ben
DSP Promo K.A. Mitchell
RIPTIDE TOUR On Solid Ground by Quinn Anderson
Tour: A Different Light by Morningstar Ashley
A MelanieM Release Day Review: Prelude to Love by Anne Barwell
A MelanieM Review: Bound by Thorns (Dragon Soul #3) by Sean Michael
Wednesday, January 3:
Blog Tour *Won’t Feel A Thing by C.F. White
Release Blitz – Bonnie Dee – The Fortune Hunter
DSP Dreamspun Promo Anne Barwell
A VVivacious Review: OBSESSION by Theophilia St. Claire
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Outside the Lines by Anna Zabo
A MelanieM Review: Wait For Me by Kris Jacen
Thursday, January 4:
Release Blitz & Review Tour Request – Sam Burns – Blackbird In The Reeds
Sin and Saint by J.M. Dabney RDB, Tour
A MelanieM Release Day Review: Sin and Saint by J.M. Dabney
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Reckless Behavior by LA Witt and Cari Z
A Stella Review: The Best Gift by Shawn Lane
An Alisa Review Wolf’s Kiss by Siryn Sueng
Friday, January 5:
Dreamspinner Promo: Alix Bekins and Connie Bailey, authors of Song and Key
Release Blitz – Vows Box Set – Addison Albright
RELEASE BLITZ Felix and the Prince by Lucy Lennox
A MelanieM Audiobook Review: Smitty’s Sheriff by Cardeno C
A Stella Pre Release Review: When the Devil Wants In by Cate Ashwood and JH Knight
An Alisa Prerelease Review: Forever With You By Londra Laine
The hardest thing a rebel can do isn’t standing up for something — it’s standing up for himself.
Life takes delight in stabbing Gus Scott in the back when he least expects it. After years of running from his past, present and the dismal future every social worker predicted for him, Karma delivers the one thing Gus could never—would never—turn his back on; a son from a one-night stand he’d had after a devastating break-up three years ago.
Returning to San Francisco and to 415 Ink, his family’s tattoo shop, gave him the perfect shelter to battle his personal demons and get himself together… until the firefighter who’d broken him walked back into Gus’s life.
For Rey Montenegro, tattoo artist Gus Scott was an elusive brass ring, a glittering prize he hadn’t the strength or flexibility to hold onto. Severing his relationship with the mercurial tattoo artist hurt but Gus hadn’t wanted the kind of domestic life Rey craved, leaving Rey with an aching chasm in his soul.
When Gus’s life and world starts to unravel, Rey helps him pick up the pieces, and Gus wonders if that forever Rey wants is more than just a dream.
415 Ink: Rebel launches the start of another series by Rhys Ford in stunning style. A second chance at love story, full of wounded, life-damaged men in search of love and HEA, 415 Ink: Rebel is exactly why I eagerly await each new release by this author. It’s full of people whose lives are easy to fall into, in this case Gus Scott, a wandering tattoo artist returning home after a two and a half year absence with startling news. Due to one nightmarish breakup and a drunken night years ago, he’s just now learned he’s a father. Something a gay man is astonished to hear. And he wants to be a part of his son’s life.
As with most of Rhys Ford’s characters, there’s layers upon layers to Gus Scott and the men he calls family, a group of men tattooed, laden with their own issues, including a past history with Gus burdened with pain and misunderstandings. To say he’s returning home to a mixed welcome is understated.
As the story unfolds and Gus reveals the news behind his return from his travels, Ford weaves the reader into the emotional fabric of these men and their universe. We feel Gus’ pain when he finds out he’s a father, his desire to be a part of Chris’ life, the history that led up to Chris’ existence, all mired in one bad decision and breakup that’s casting reverberations still. It’s nigh to impossible to remain unmoved by this story, especially when all involved want what’s best for Chris. No “nasty mom or mother’s parents” to be found here. Instead it’s a refreshing change of responsible adults working together in the best interests of a child.
Yes, this is an emotional journey and not just for Gus and Rey, but for all in the house as they also work to help provide support for Gus and Chris. Due to Rhys Ford’s superb characters, vivid scenes, and dramatic narrative, I not only felt a part of their lives but believed in them absolutely.
What do you get with a Rhys Ford story? Men to love, broken hearts in need of mending, extended families giving support, and more romance and angst to overflow any tale….all that and more superbly done. I’ll leave you with this…
“I’m sorry I wasn’t what you wanted me to be, but you know what? You weren’t what I needed either, even if you were all I wanted.”
Sigh. Now to wait for the next in the series. Until then, pick up 415 Ink: Rebel by Rhys Ford. I highly recommend it.
Cover Artist: Reece Notley. Another great cover by Reece Notley. That’s exactly my idea of Gus.
Up-and-coming film producer Kyle Wakefield lives in the closet rather than risk the wrath of his influential, conservative parents. The only time he took a chance on love was a tempestuous teenage affair with Nathan Carnes. But when Nathan proved himself hell-bent on self-destruction and wound up in prison, Kyle closed off his heart.
Almost a decade later, Kyle’s production partner hires Nathan’s stunt company, Second Chances, to work on a big-budget action film in London. Nate is floored by his explosive reunion with Kyle. But he sure as hell isn’t surprised that Kyle still treats their mutual needs—and Nate—like dirty little secrets.
As the London holiday season casts its dazzling spell, the two men find themselves falling in love again. Kyle is one breathless kiss away from declaring himself to Nate—and to the world—but they cannot ignore secrets borne of youthful mistakes. To protect their bright new future, Kyle and Nathan will need all their passion and trust . . . and a little Christmas magic.
Came Upon a Midnight Clear is my favorite MM Romance story. I read it for the first time in 2013 and fell in love with Nate and Kyle after their very first scene together. For a couple of fictitious characters, their chemistry is palpable throughout the pages and the longing they have for each other makes their struggle to have a relationship real.
I re-read this book in 2016 and got a paperback copy as well. I loved rediscovering their love and all the scenes that made their relationship special. I’m not entirely sure why, but after reading over 1,500 MM books, this one still my favorite. And that’s why I just read it one more.
This is a re-edited version of this story, but the main events still the same. The only edits I noticed were related to technology and pop culture references. The sense of place, culture, and holiday spirit brings this story together. It’s not a traditional Christmas tale but a second chance love.
Since the start, it’s easy to see how good they’re together. Plus, how well they did without each other. They don’t need the other to be successful. Their relationship goes beyond that, to a friendship that stayed with them even after all the years apart. Their love is just an added bonus and the sex their way to connect.
And there’s a lot of sex in this story. Hard, raw, loving, but always as part of their developing story. This is definitely an erotic romance. Even so, the romance is as important as the plot itself. There’s a lot of angst too and Kyle’s and Nathan’s original relationship will pull your heartstrings, but it’s worth it.
This book is not perfect or a writing masterpiece but the authors did an excellent job developing the characters, creating an interesting supporting cast, and making Kyle’s and Nathan’s love believable. As a reader, we get to cheer for them until the very end. The epilogue is the perfect ending to the book. And yes, I’d read it again. 🙂
Also, Came Upon a Midnight Clear is now a 2017 Riptide Holiday Charity Novel benefiting The Russian LGBT network.
The cover by Natasha Snow is sweet and festive, just a bit too generic for this story. Other than the London Bridge, it doesn’t give the reader a feel for the story.
This week I’m devoting our blog to lists from our readers and what wonderful lists they came up with. One author on many of there lists is one that will be on mine too. But in what manner? Because Annabeth Albert is one author I’m wrestling with right now for mine own lists because I love so many of her stories. What do I choose from? Her #gaymers series (Status Update, Beta Test)? Her Out of Uniform series (On Point) or even her newest one Rainbow Cove (Tender with a Twist)? Rhys Ford for her gritty urban fantasy and contemporary? Heidi Cullinan? On and on, there are authors with multiple stories that made a huge impact on me this year…how to narrow the list down or do I?
Please feel free to chime in here. Because my lists start tending to look like scrolls rolling across the floor…
And then there are the authors new to me and their series, writers like J.M. Dabney, Dahlia Donovan, and Lindsey Black.
Yes, my list will be long. Be prepared on the 31st! Until then enjoy these wonderful lists from some of our readers and you still have until the end of the week to get yours in as well and be entered for our Best of 2017 Giveaways. See the details below. Until next week..
Be Safe, Be Merry, and Happy Reading from all of us to all of you!
Happy Holidays to one and all from everyone here at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words!
♡From H.B.
Thanks for sharing your list with us. I never was very good at picking out books I thought were the best over all books I’ve read well here goes:
Best of series 2017:
At Last, The Beloved by Stella Starling
The F-Word by E. Davies
Regent’s Park Pack by Annabelle Jacobs (technically book 1 was released in 2016 but book 2 and 3 was released this year)
Luna Brothers by Ashe Moon
2017 Best Novels:
Archangel’s Assassin by Barbara Elsborg
Haunted by Casey Ashwood
Thick & Thin (THIRDS 8) by Charlie Cochet
Darkest Hour Before Dawn (THIRDS 9) by Charlie Cochet
Gummy Bears & Grenades (THIRDS 9.5) by Charlie Cochet
Dim Sum Asylum by Rhys Ford
Siren’s Call by J.C. Owens
The Foxling Soldati (Soldati Hearts 2) by Charlie Cochet
Bone to Pick by T.A. Moore
Daimonion (The Apocalypse 1) by J.P. Jackson
To Touch You (Mates 4) by Cardeno C.
A Worthy Man (The Men of Halfway House 5) by Jaime Reese
FU: Fixer Uppers by Devon McCormack
Love Connection (#gaymers 3.5) by Annabeth Albert
True Colors (True Love 2) by Anyta Sunday
Half by Eli Lang
Married for a Month by Cate Ashwood
Ge-Mi (Part One) by Mell Eight
Man Walks into a Bar: A Trio of Short Stories by Lissa Ford
Best listened to audiobook in 2017:
Don’t Twunk With My Heart (Loving You 2) by Renae Kaye
Whyborne and Griffin series book 1-8 by Jordan l. Hawk
Lightning Struck Heart by T.J. Klune
Stranger on the Shore by Josh Lanyon
#gaymers series by Annabeth Albert
♡From Ami:
It is ALWAYS difficult for me to choose things for “Best” List. Mainly because I read a lot (more than 400 titles, MM and MF) so I hate sorting them out in order. But I’ll try. And I prefer to use the word “Favorite” rather than Best, since I know my taste is different than others
Favorite Novel Read in 2017
Back to You by Chris Scully
Kill Game by Cordelia Kingsbride
Love is Heartless by Kim Fielding
On Point by Annabeth Albert
Bad Behavior by L.A. Witt & Cari Z.
Accepting the Fall by Meg Harding
The Love Song of Sawyer Bell by Avon Gale (F/F Romance)
Tender with a Twist by Annabeth Albert
Sightlines by Santino Hassell
Favorite Novella / Short Story Read in 2017
The Layover by Roe Horvat
Handmade Holidays by Nathan Burgoine
♡From Jen27:
Here are some of mine from 2017.
Series:Whyborne & Griffin by Jordan L. Hawk (has been since it started)
New-to-me-Author:Kasia Bacon Holiday story: Color of You by C.S. Poe (I was lucky enough to win an ARC.) Audiobook: The Alpha King by Victoria Sue Short Story: Dear Mona Lisa by Claire Davis & Al Stewart
I have way to many novels that I loved, but some of the authors who had multiple five star reads for me this year are: Jordan L. Hawk, Rhys Ford, Tal Bauer, Victoria Sue, Kasia Bacon, Keira Andrews, NR Walker, KJ Charles, Cat Sebastian, CS Poe, Eli Easton, Layla Reyne, Charlie Cochet, Annabeth Albert, Garrett Leigh, Santino Hassell, TJ Klune, Harper Fox
♡And Purple Reader:
hanks fro all the good recs. Certainly a lot to look into. I didn’t know if this was limited to 2017 releases, but as far as fantasy goes: I read and loved the first 4 in Andrew Q. Gordon’s Champion of the Gods series this year, and the latest (4th – Child of Night & Day) was this year.
Best of 2017 Giveaway
Who has made an impact on you this year? Start thinking about it. This week starts our Best of 2017 Giveaways. We need your Best of in whatever Categories you would like to submit. Have a Best of Covers? Great! How about a Bests of Supernatural Romance? Perfect! Best Historical Romance? Love it! Getting the idea? So what’s your Best of 2017? I will be gathering mine for the next 2 weeks and will trot them out at the end of the month. Prizes will be offered up! Gift certificates, more than one, for participations and more.
Ends this Saturday, December 30th. So get those lists in and let’s starting comparing! Happy compiling! Must be 18 years old to enter.
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Sunday, December 24:
An Alisa Advent Release Day Review: Candy Canes and Cappuccinos by Elizabeth Coldwell
An Alisa Review: The Icicles by R.W. Clinger
Almost There! The Best is Yet to Come 2017 Best of Lists Continue.
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Monday, December 25 – Merry Christmas Everyone!
Book BLITZ Get Up by Reece Pine
BLITZ Run in the Blood by A.E. Ross
Jared’s Fulfillment by Riley Hart Blog Tour
A Caryn Release Day Review: Color of You by CS Poe
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review:Don’t Plan to Stay by Kaje Harper
A MelanieM Advent Release Day Review: Homemade from the Heartby Bru Baker
A Stella Review: Like a Gentleman, by Eliot Grayson
Tuesday, December 26:
DSP Promo Scotty Cade on Someone To Kiss
Tour Blitz for Sin and Saint by J.M. Dabney
A Free Dreamer Review :In Blood and Pain by Aldrea Alien
A MelanieM Advent Release Day Review: The Billionaire’s Boxing Day Bargain by Ava Hayden
A MelanieM Release Day Review: Sin & Saint (Executioners #4) by J.M. Dabney
An Ali Review: Will & Patrick’s Endless Honeymoon (Wake Up Married #7) by Leta Blake
Wednesday, December 27:
On tour:Blood’s Song by Tempeste O’Riley
DSP Promo KC Burn
A Caryn Release Day Review: Being with Him by Mickie Ashling
An Alisa Review: I Only Want to Be With You by J Scott Coatsworth
A Caryn Advent Release Day Review: A Holiday Crush by CJane Elliott
An Alisa Release Day Review: Someone to Kiss by Scotty Cade
Thursday, December 28:
Harmony Ink Promo RG Thomas
SEAN MICHAEL on Composing a Family
A LIla Review: Came Upon a Midnight Clear by Katie Porter
A MelanieM Advent Release Day Review: Ghostwriter of Christmas Past by TA Moore
A MelanieM Review:A Viking For Yule by Jamie Fessenden
An Ali Review : On Your Knees, Prospect by KA Merikan
An Alisa Review: Life on Pause by Erin McLellan
Friday, December 29:
Cover Reveal for La Famiglia (A Men of Gilead Novel) by Deanna Wadsworth
Release Blitz – Beyond The Tunnel – Dan Mitton
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Eight Nights In December by Keira Andrews
A MelanieM Advent Release Day Review: New Game, Start by C.S. Poe
A MelanieM Review: 415 Ink: Rebel by Rhys Ford
An Alisa Review: Raven (Elsewhere #2) by H.J. Perry
Saturday, December 30:
A Lila Advent Release Day Review: The Werewolf before Christmas by Charles Payseur
A MelanieM Review: A Cop for Christmas by Jamie Fessenden
Eric and Ellison Gant better known as Sin and Saint were opposite sides of the same coin. They epitomized the nicknames given to them by their friends in the band Executioners. One thing Sin and Saint did well was fight and being inseparable means they have a lot of disagreements, but one thing they agree on is Sheriff Camden Pelter was theirs. The older, stoic man didn’t agree, yet they were determined to change his mind.
Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words 