A MelanieM Review: Murder Book (Boystown 5) by Marshall Thornton

Rating: 5 plus stars out of 5

In the second of the Boystown mysteries to be a finalist for the Lambda Award, it’s fall 1982 and Chicago is gripped by panic after five people die from poisoned Tylenol capsules. Amid the chaos, the Bughouse Slasher takes his eighth victim, this time striking close to private investigator Nick Nowak.

With the Chicago Police Department stretched to its limit, Nick takes matters into his own hands. But what will he do with the Bughouse Slasher once he finds him.

Just when you think you know how Marshall Thornton will break your heart, his characters and story twists and shatters it in ways you never expected.

That’s what happened in Murder Book, the fifth novel in Marshall Thornton’s Boystown series. In this story, the author lifts a horrific series of murders direct from the 80’s headlines, that of the Tylenol poisonings of 1982 in Chicago. It changed the pharmaceutical industry and our nation but here Thornton uses it as a narrative framework wherein he place’s another murder investigation ongoing at the same time. Each investigation has the same parameters. There have been multiple murders. The race is on to catch the killer before they strike again. But there it stops.

The Tylenol poisoner is high profile. The search has the backing of many agencies. It’s victims range from a child to adults and its potential victims could be anyone. The fear is overwhelming the population and the push to find the culprit enormous. No expense is being spared.

Then there is the other one. The smaller investigation. One that has been all but forgotten. That of the Bughouse Slasher who’s targets are young gay men, often found on the streets. Not victims that the Chicago PD or anyone is pushing to solve their murders especially. Excerpt for the now ill, ex Det Harker and his lover Nick Novak who have become involved through previous events and Harker’s former Slasher cases.

Starting from the very first page, everything has come home to Nick Novak. Its like walking into a wound that’s still tearing open. And that walking trauma is NIck as we start to live his life. This story is shocking, heartbreaking, gritty and real. It will bring together many of the people we have come to know in a relentless search for a killer.

There will be no spoilers here. Just simply my endless admiration for the author who created such a character, and has stayed true to him, messy life, unbelievable pain, and struggles to continue. It is unbelievably compelling reading. Brilliant even to the point that even once through is not enough.

When someone asks you, what are the characters that have made an impact on you, Nick Novak, is on that list. This story is among the reasons why as is the series.

Start at the first collection and see why for yourself today. I highly recommend them all.

Cover art works to brand the series and sets the tone for the story.

Sales Links:Amazon US | Amazon UK

Book Details:

Kindle Edition, 184 pages
Published February 6th 2015 (first published April 4th 2013)
ASINB00R0HDAZS
Edition LanguageEnglish
SeriesBoystown #5
Literary AwardsLambda Literary Award Nominee for Gay Mystery (2013)

Series:

Boystown Bundle 1 – 3 – Amazon US | Amazon UK
Book #4 A Time For Secrets – Amazon US | Amazon UK
Book #5 Murder Book – Amazon US | Amazon UK
Book #6 From The Ashes – Amazon US | Amazon UK
Book #7 Bloodlines – Amazon US | Amazon UK (ON SALE for 99c)
Book #8 The Lies That Bind – Amazon US | Amazon UK
Book #9 Lucky Days – Amazon US | Amazon UK
Book #10 Gifts Given – Amazon US | Amazon UK
Book #11 Hearts Desire – Amazon US | Amazon UK (PREORDER

A MelanieM Release Day Review: From a Jack to a King by Scotty Cade

Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

New York Times best-selling mystery writer Bay Whitman leads the life of a celebrity—at least on the surface. In public he’s self-assured and in control. Women hang on his every word, while men envy his confidence and swagger. But in reality, Bay is a loner. He’s shy and introverted, and his life consists of sitting in a dimly lit room writing his famous Jack Robbins mystery novels. His one vice—gambling. Winning an escort in a poker game will change Bay’s life in ways he never imagined.

Matthew “King” Slater is one of the hottest tickets in gay porn. He spends his days in front of the camera and his nights as a highly paid escort to the rich and famous. Deep down, he craves romance and a real connection, but his past makes it hard to separate the needs of his body from those of his heart. For now, it’s easier to think of sex as just a job. But while doing a shoot in Vegas, King is hired for a tryst at a famous hotel and casino, and his handsome client might blur the line between work and play.

OK, I’m going to admit right off the bat, I misjudged this book. Not by it cover, but by the synopsis! I thought I was going to get a typical high priced call guy/porn star meets and transforms a nerd sort of story and gets a life makeover himself. All of which does kind of happen.

But…and it’s a huge one, Scotty Cade takes that barest of well if not themes, then outlines and fleshes it out with surprising twists in his characterizations, story framework, and unique elements. It begins with his multiple pov, told from both Matthew “King” Slater and Bay Whitman. We don’t actually hear the name Matthew used much until the end of the story which is appropriate because for much of this novel, it’s King Slater, the vastly popular gay porn star and high priced escort that you hear from. We meet him in the middle of a “shoot” for a porn film, taking a call for a hookup later on. And it’s our first inkling of the twist that’s coming when we hear King’s inner thoughts, both on the shoot and the escort job to come. The layers that Cade start to pour over his character to distinguish him from others you might have stashed away in your mind. I don’t really want to give away the issues with King. But needless to say, the author has done considerable research and it comes through how King internally voice’s his insecurities and deep fears. It’s believable and his actions at all times feel authentic.

So too does the bullying element that has played such a restrictive, altering role in Bay Whitman’s life. The author mentions the horrible effects that childhood bullying have had on him and it translates into the character of Bay in the story. That simply said, they carry over into adulthood with often surprising ramifications on that persons life. With Bay Whitman, Scotty Cade is able to show what course those repercussions might have taken with one person. And again, Bay becomes someone you can connect with, a person who needs to create a persona to deal with the “outside”, to handle people and events that he himself thinks are beyond him. It’s so easy to emphasize and feel compassion for both individuals.

I enjoyed the path the author plotted to their HEA, as potentially loaded with emotional potholes and outright craters I kept waiting for them to fall into. But the author was kind and, I believe, sympathetic himself towards this pair that needed each other and love so badly.

He gives them a ending that, perhaps I had to suspend my belief a little more than usual (which is why the rating) but it’s also a tremendous way to end the story. Did I enjoy it? Absolutely. I was rooting for them after all.

I think you will too.

I definitely recommend From a Jack to a King by Scotty Cade. If you love romance, and for two men who deserive a chance at HEA, I think you will love this contemporary novel.

Cover art: Paul Richmond. You can always pick out a Paul Richmond artwork. This one is absolutely perfect for the characters, story, and of course, the cover. Love it.

Sales Links: Dreamspinner Press | Amazon

Book Details:

ebook, 200 pages
Expected publication: July 3rd 2018 by Dreamspinner Press
ISBN139781640801141
Edition LanguageEnglish

A MelanieM Review: Tight Quarters (Out of Uniform #6) by Annabeth Albert

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

Petty Officer Bacon, a navy SEAL and ace sharpshooter, has been on the front lines of more than his fair share of dangerous ops. Yet when a minor injury relegates him to the beta team, he’s tasked with what may be his riskiest assignment yet: the silver fox journalist he’s babysitting is the hottest, most charismatic man he’s ever encountered.

Award-winning journalist Spencer Bryant may have been named one of Pride magazine’s most eligible bachelors of the year, but he’s not looking to change his relationship status. He’s a consummate professional who won’t risk his ethics or impeccable reputation by getting involved with a source. Even a sexy-as-hell military man. But while Spencer can resist his physical attraction to Bacon, he has less control over his emotions—especially when the mission goes sideways and the two men are trapped alone.

Getting out of the jungle alive turns out to be easy compared to facing the truth about their feelings for one another back in the real world. And whether or not they can build a future is a different story altogether.

As I seem to say with every Annabeth Albert series, with each story her Out of Uniform series just seems to evolve into ever deeply layered plots and a enlarged group of characters that connect to her center cast of military personnel. Here in Tight Quarters, Albert brings in that ever present and important figure, the journalist and embeds him into the beta team of sharpshooter Petty Officer Bacon.

I loved this idea and theme for many reasons, not the least of which these men and women (journalists who go to war) have always fascinated me. So to have Albert create a main character with a passion for the truth and need for adrenaline that would carry him with the soldiers out into a mission? Perfect, and yet, not have all the information at hand to understand that perhaps in this case he might be a detriment and an obstacle as well. So the author brings both an immediate tension into the group on several levels with the introduction of journalist Spencer Bryant and it works superbly.

Another element that also puts the reader on alert? The team is not a well oiled SEAL team but an unsettled one, trying to find a way to gell together. Under new leadership and uneasy with each other, inserting an outsider, an openly gay one, is highlighting the cracks in the unit now becoming wide crevasses.

The combination of military life and romance is a wonder once more in the hands of Albert. She paints in intimate window into the lives, tensions, and team dynamics of Bacon’s SEAL team as it’s unity flounders in the face of homophobia, uncertainty, and lack of leadership. And then adds in her journalist to which there’s an not an instant attraction between both men, Bacon and Bryant but a slow burn? Wonderful and full of angst.

I loved the hot romance between the men but what really worked for me was that Albert never forgot the reality of the situation the men kept find ing themselves in. For one? That it took a while for the journalist Bryant to understand exactly what an impediment he was to the SEAL team’s mission. That in actuality he was Bacon’s mission during a portion of the story…a scary, gritty portion. And how that might have adversely effected Bacon’s career and their lives should the mission go “south”.

Secondly, that their romance had to take second place to careers and events currently taking place and that they had to assure people (command, publishers) of timelines. That also felt covered in authenticity.

Plus I always love having characters from previous stories pop up again as they do here. Adore that and getting caught up again with their lives.

In short? I believed in this men. Their passions for what they did for a living, and for each other. Albert’s writing carried me away from my real life into theirs, one fraught with danger, suspense, rules, regulations, and lastly a romance for all to connect with. I was investing emotionally with them at all times. Yep, hooked hard.

Cover art is hot and sexy and in keeping with branding the series.

Sales Links:

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo

Book Details:

Kindle Edition, 1st edition, 336 pages
Expected publication: July 9th 2018 by Carina Press
Original TitleTight Quarters
ASINB07BRX2K1D
Edition LanguageEnglish
URLhttps://www.carinapress.com/shop/books/9781488081330_tight-quarters.html
SeriesOut of Uniform

New Release Blog Tour for Tight Quarters (Out of Uniform #6) by Annabeth Albert (excerpt and giveaway)

Tight Quarters (Out of Uniform #6) by Annabeth Albert

Publisher: Carina Press

Release Date: ebook: July 9, 2018 | print: July 31, 2018

Links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo

About Tight Quarters

This book is approximately 82,000 words

One-click with confidence. This title is part of the Carina Press Romance Promise: all the romance you’re looking for with an HEA/HFN. It’s a promise!

Subgenre: M/M Contemporary Military Romance

Excerpt

“Came because I didn’t have anywhere else I’d rather be.” Bacon’s voice lowered, became more mournful. “And trust me, I’m every bit as pissed about that too. Fuck you for getting under my skin. Everything on base is too damn quiet right now. And I’m too…itchy. You make me itchy, Spencer, and I hate it.”

“I’m—”

“Don’t you dare say sorry.” Bacon’s mouth was millimeters from Spencer’s when he paused. Held. Gave him a chance to escape, but even though it was the height of stupidity, Spencer wasn’t going anywhere.

“I hate it too,” he whispered, right against Bacon’s mouth a split second before Bacon claimed his mouth in a punishing kiss. Spencer was used to being the aggressor with kissing. It was just how he was wired—he’d always been the one to take the lead in bed. But Bacon left no space for him to take over. In fact, all he could do was cling to Bacon and hope they didn’t burn the damn hotel down with the force of their passion.

It was like they’d been longing for this for years, not days, and like they were both longtime lovers reuniting and mortal enemies enraged at their attraction. Bacon kissed like he operated in the field—with deadly intent and utter precision as he systematically took Spencer apart, lick by lick, nip by nip, breath by breath. But really, who needed air with kisses like these? Bacon kept up the aggressive assault, body pushing him against the wall, mouth ensuring his compliance.

Finally, Bacon proved himself mortal after all and pulled away to gasp for air. “Fuck.”

“Still mad?” Why Spencer was goading him, he really couldn’t say, other than he wanted more of this wild, unleashed, more-than-a-little unhinged man.

“Very.” Bacon bit at Spencer’s ear, which made him shiver like a teenager in a backseat for the first time. God, he was putty for this man, absolute wet clay for him to mold and use. “So damn pissed.”

But he belied his words by sinking to his knees, as graceful as any dancer Spencer had worked with. He went straight for Spencer’s waistband.

“Wait.” Spencer had to regain a little control here, assert himself, not simply get caught up in the Bacon express train of lust and anger. “Still don’t know your name.”

About Annabeth Albert

Annabeth Albert grew up sneaking romance novels under the bed covers. Now, she devours all subgenres of romance out in the open—no flashlights required! When she’s not adding to her keeper shelf, she’s a multi-published Pacific Northwest romance writer. The #OutOfUniform series joins her critically acclaimed and fan-favorite LGBTQ romance #Gaymers, #PortlandHeat and #PerfectHarmony series.

To find out what she’s working on next and other fun extras, check out her website: www.annabethalbert.com or connect with Annabeth on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Spotify! Also, be sure to sign up for her newsletter for free ficlets, bonus reads, and contests. The fan group, Annabeth’s Angels, on Facebook is also a great place for bonus content and exclusive contests.

Emotionally complex, sexy, and funny stories are her favorites both to read and to write. Annabeth loves finding happy endings for a variety of pairings and is a passionate gay rights supporter. In between searching out dark heroes to redeem, she works a rewarding day job and wrangles two active children.

Rafflecopter prize and code: Reader’s Choice of any Out of Uniform book in paper + surprise swag pack!

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A MelanieM Review: A Time For Secrets (Boystown #4) by Marshall Thornton

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

In the first full-length novel of the Boystown series, it’s late summer 1982 and private detective Nick Nowak is asked to find a retired gentleman’s long lost lover. Instead, he finds himself embroiled in a decades old murder connected to the man who wants to be Chicago’s next mayor.

Meanwhile, an ambitious young reporter develops a friendship with Nick’s lover Bert, making Nick wonder exactly where their relationship may be heading.

Nick Novak has never quite dealt with the traumatic assault that outed him to the Chicago PD, cost him not only his job on the force but his lover who was violently beaten in the gay bashing. A tragedy where suspects were never arrested or looked for because the victims were homosexuals. His lover blamed him for his closeted state and being part of the PD. His guilt, his inability to protect the one he loved? And being the one not to face years of reconstructive surgery? All took its toll emotionally, professionally, and mentally.

Its why NIck is a PI, estranged from most of his family, and still not able to put his past completely to rest.

Now it comes home again when an elderly man asks Nick to find a lover he made a connection with long ago. Turns out he also has a connection with Nick. He was the one to call Chicago PD when he witnessed Nick and his lover being attacked, and perhaps kept them from being killed. Nick’s past and this man’s are intertwined in ways Nick is just beginning to understand.

A Time For Secrets is a dark, gritty tale. We’ve been moving deeper into this territory with each story as the 80’s progress. Its 1982 now. We’ve gone from a mention of a gay flu to a mysterious virus to GRID (gay-related immune deficiency) which Harker, Nick’s Chicago PD lover, was diagnosed with. Now they are starting to call it AIDS while searching for answers and, of course, preventative measures. Yes, people are starting to think they should use condoms.

Nick is still very much Nick, who is trying to handle a lover who is probably dying (although no one is saying anything), his lover’s mother (who hates Nick and blames him for Harker’s illness), and his feelings towards both Harker and the idea of commitment. While it should be work that directs his attention away from the personal issues, this case continues to direct it back, as it pulls in his family members with their ties to the police and his past.

Thornton’s writing is fast paced and smooth for all the intricacies of plot and heavy emotional heft of this story. Parts of it will just plan old out and out hurt to read. That’s because these characters and their plight have become or do feel so real over the course of this story. It may be the 80’s, but bigotry and hate know no decade. Nor does AIDS and impending loss.

This story and series makes it all believable, vivid, and immediate again.

As it does to corruption and politics. Also so timely.

A Time For Secrets (Boystown #4) by Marshall Thornton is another brilliant story in the Boystown series. There are ten books in all. They are moving, dark, sometimes hard to read, and bring forth a character and perspective that’s not to be missed. I highly recommend both this book and the entire series.

Cover art brands the series although would not be my pick for a cover.

Sales Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Book Details:Kindle Edition, 238 pages
Published January 23rd 2015 (first published March 30th 2012)
ASINB00R1OTW98
Edition LanguageEnglish
SeriesBoystown #4

Series:

Hello July. More On Romance Don’ts For You. This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Hello July.

More On Romance Don’ts For Readers

Welcome to July! The month that means the halfway point of summer, the week of the beginnings of many celebrations for Americans in the States and abroad as we celebrate our Independence Day on the 4th with fireworks and parades. and just a flood of people heading out for summer vacations (beach, mountains, tourist destinations) or good old staycations.

It’s also a time for tons of summer reading which is why I’m still talking about those Romance Don’ts or at least one of the reasons. I don’t know if you all caught Kate Sherwood’s blog last week here but she was talking about an early story of her’s where she had her mc’s cheat and the readers wrote in disgusted with her. And she felt she had broken an unwritten bond with them. The title of her guest blog? The Romance Taboo by Kate Sherwood. You can find it here. I was totally intrigued although not surprised. Its something I’ve heard over and over myself.

Another reason I’m still inquiring? That would be the Boystown series written by Marshall Thornton. Several novels in this series have either won the Lambda Literary Award for Gay Mystery or been a finalist. And deservedly so. But I wonder how many have started these stories and ended up with a DNF. And the reason being that the main character, PI Nick Nowak, rarely turns away from a hookup (underage the only exception), despite being in a relationship. Yes, its the 80’s and gay sex/monogamy was admittedly looked at differently then. But, and let me know if I’m wrong here, I get the feeling that context doesn’t come much into play when the element is cheating with regards to the main character or couple. it’s simply “no, not in my story”.

Which is a damn shame because these books and this series is simply brilliant. I’ll be reviewing more of them this week. And I’d like to know what I can possibly say to change readers minds. For me this subject hasn’t been an issue. Life is messy and its always been about how the author has handled the subject (as with any other element in their story). But this is an emotional issue in RL and it carries over into our reading. Can it ever be separated? Not sure. I hope you all will continue to chime in here. I will be handing out gift certificates next week.

And yes, I’ve been reading and loving everyone’s comments. Here is what some of you have had to say on the subject:

On Readers Romance Don’ts:

I think it depends on how the characters are portrayed. I can sometimes stand cheating characters but it has to be under certain circumstances (abuse, loveless marriage where spouse is cheating already, open relationship where both characters know and is okay with it). I really don’t like politically or religiously driven stories. Regarding sex scenes I like them enough just to spice up the read but not overtake the entire book. One every chapter is too excessive in my opinion I think maybe for a full length story I would like just maybe 2 to 4 sex scenes. Of course no sex scenes and more intimacy scenes are okay too. I think the one thing a book can’t come back from is if it kills off an important character (I’m going to exclude Andrea Speed’s Infected series from this even tho I didn’t complete the series I have plans to go back and read it after I heal from the lost of Paris). I once read a book where a main character in the earlier series was killed off in the sequel that featured new main characters. Luckily the series only had two books and there were no plans for more because I was completely turned off from it and resented that I had wasted time reading it.

I can tolerate cheating if it advances the storyline while leading to the MCs having an HEA. Regarding sex scenes, I don’t need one every chapter. The first sex scene is the most important, because that sets the foundation for future exploration, especially if one character is primarily a top or bottom. The only things that turn me off in a book are domestic abuse, child abuse, rape, and mpreg storylines.

I agree. I hate it when they kill off the pets! [my pet peeve] I just finished reading a short story this morning where a cat got thrown of a building. I was so mad!
As for romance, I’m not sure. I do a lot of ghostwriting, and my clients are often very specific that they don’t want the main characters to have sexual involvement with anyone else. Must be a big rule!

In terms of cheating. it depends on my mood — I mean, I’ve read when cheating happened, and I was okay with it as long as there’s SIGNIFICANT GROVELING happened in the book.

My romance No No are mostly about tropes… I don’t read Mpreg, I don’t read M/F/M or F/F/M. for example, rather than something in the plot.

✒

I will have to tell you all I didn’t even mention last week one of my biggest bugaboos. A romance book where one of the MC was intensely involved with his own excrement. I believe that was my very first DNF story and it was years ago. And yes, I found my limit on kink in that novel as well. Another romance don’t for me. So let’s hear from you all. More on this cheating element and any other Romance Don’ts!

Lucky readers will be chosen next week to receive gift cards. Now on this our week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.

This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, July 1:

RELEASE BLITZ – Leaning into Forever by Lane Hayes
Hello July. More On Romance Don’ts For You.
This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Monday, July 2:

Release Blitz for Nobody Else’s by Nell Iris
Release Blitz Badlands by Morgan Brice
Release Day Blitz Magic or Die (Inner Demons #1) by JP Jackson
A Lucy Review: Nobody Else’s by Nell Iris
An Alisa Review: Challenge (Kinky in the City #2) by Quinn Ward
A Jeri Review: Wash Out (Anchor Point #7) by LA Witt
A MelanieM Review: A Time For Secrets (Boystown #4) by Marshall Thornton

Tuesday. July 3:

BLOG TOUR TIGHT QUARTERS by Annabeth Albert
DSP Promo Rhett Heath
Release Blitz Play it by Ear by KM Neuhold
A VVivacious Release Day Review: Stranger in a Foreign Land by Michael Murphy
A MelanieM Review: Tight Quarters (Out of Uniform #6) by Annabeth Albert
A MelanieM Release Day Review: From a Jack to a King by Scotty Cade
A Caryn Review: Finn (Endangered Fae #1) by Angel Martinez

Wednesday, July 4 (Happy Independence Day!) 🇺🇸

AUDIOBOOK TOUR – WITH A KICK Collection #1 by CLARE LONDON
Review Tour for Rainbow Place (Rainbow Place #1) by Jay Northcote
REVIEW TOUR for Daniel (The Third Legacy) by RJ Scott
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Daniel (The Third Legacy) by RJ Scott
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Rainbow Place (Rainbow Place #1) by Jay Northcote
An Alisa Audiobook Review: Treasure for Treasure (Being(s) in Love #7) by R. Cooper and Dominic Carlos (Narrator)
A Lucy Review: Play It By Ear by KM Neuhold

Thursday, July 5:

In the Spotlight Tour and Giveaway: Cinderella Boy by Kristina Meister
BLOG TOUR fo My Crunchy Life by Mia Kerick
DSP Dreamspun Promo Michael Murphy on Stranger in a Foreign Land
A Free Dreamer Review: Armistice (The Amberlough Dossier #2) by Lara Elena Donnelly
A Lucy Audiobook Review: Bromantically Yours by K.C. Wells and Narrator: Daniel Henning
An Alisa Review: That’s My Ethan by Tarian PS
A MelanieM Review: Murder Book (Boystown 5) by Marshall Thornton

Friday, July 6:

Cover Reveal for Curl Around My Heart by Londra Laine l
Review Tour and Giveaway for Stag and the Ash (The Rowan Harbor Cycle #5) by Sam Burns
Review Tour for Spark (North Star #1) by Posy Roberts
Blog Tour for Magic or Die (Inner Demons, Book One) by JP Jackson
A Free Dreamer Review: Stag and The Ash (Rowan Harbor Cycle #5) by Sam Burns
A MelanieM Release Day Review: Knitting a Broken Heart Back Together by Ari McKay
A Stella Review: Spark (North Star #1) by Posy Roberts

Saturday, July 7:

BLITZ – Leaning Into the Look by Lane Hayes
Release Blitz for Knitting a Broken Heart Back Together by Ari McKay
A MelanieM Review: From the Ashes (Boystown #6) by Marshall Thornton

A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Unfit to Print by KJ Charles

Ratting: 5 stars out of 5

Years ago, Gil Lawless was pulled from his boarding school and cast out of his home to the streets of London, all because his father passed away and his uncle wanted no part of a biracial family member. Denied his inheritance, Gil was forced to do anything to survive and it wasn’t until he reached adulthood that he found out his father had actually left him money and a small stipend. Taking what he could get from his uncle at that point, Gil bought a bookstore on Holywell Street—the infamous London location where anyone could purchase erotic photos or books made to order for their personal kink.

Vikram Pandey is an attorney who takes cases on behalf of the poor in his off time. He’s well known among the Indian community as someone who can be trusted, so when he receives a note from a little girl asking him to find her brother, his heart is touched and he immediately sets out in search of the teen. Little does he know his search will lead him to the man who he has longed to see again for half of his life.

Vik and Gil were boarding school roommates, and more, before Gil was pulled out in the middle of the day one day and disappeared forever. After a period of who, what, and why, Vik reveals that he’s never cared for another person as much as he cared for Gil. Slowly, but surely, though illicit and illegal, the two men come together again, and over the course of the story, form a strong relationship.

KJ Charles brings her usual very thorough research into a love story between two strong male characters born in a time when it wasn’t all right to love another man. The writing is crisp and clean, the characters three-dimensional, strong, and loving, and the adventure just the right mix of nail-biting and heart-racing fright to keep me reading from beginning to end without a break.

One of the things I love best about this author’s work is that I always learn something new and it’s always wrapped up in such a nice package. Plus, it’s a standalone with a nice HEA. I highly recommend this one to history buffs or simply to those who love an MM mystery and romance in a very satisfying story.

~~~

Cover by Lennan Adams is a cut-out silhouette of the head of a man. Where the hair and face should be is a background scene depicting old London. The balance, or overlay, of the cover is a parchment-toned paper. This is very cleverly done as the story is about a bookseller in 19th century London who deals in books that are considered “unfit to print” due to their sexual content.

Sales LInks: Amazon

Book Details:

ebook
Expected publication: July 10th 2018 by KJC Books
ISBN139781912688012
Edition LanguageEnglish

A Free Dreamer Review: Amberlough (The Amberlough Dossier #1) by Lara Elena Donnelly

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

A double-agent sacrifices all his ideals in order to save his smuggler lover before a government coup takes over their decadent city in Lara Elena Donnelly’s glam spy thriller debut, now a Nebula finalist for Best Novel!

Introducing…

The Smuggler: By day, Aristide Makricosta is the emcee for Amberlough City’s top nightclub. By night, he moves drugs and refugees under the noses of crooked cops.

The Spy: Covert agent Cyril DePaul thinks he’s good at keeping secrets, but after a disastrous mission abroad, he makes a dangerous choice to protect himself…and hopefully Aristide too.

The Dancer: Streetwise Cordelia Lehane, burlesque performer at the Bumble Bee Cabaret and Aristide’s runner, could be the key to Cyril’s plans—if she can be trusted.

As the twinkling marquees lights yield to the rising flames of a fascist revolution, these three will struggle to survive using whatever means — and people — necessary. Including each other.

Review: First of all, I think we need to talk about expectations. When I read the blurb, looked at the publisher and what people shelved ”Amberlough” under, I’d expected 1920s America with magic and romance. What I got was an espionage thriller AU of 1930s Europe, before the Nazis came into power. And a little bit of romance. Had I known what kind of setting to expect, I wouldn’t have read this book. So I’m glad I got the wrong impression because “Amberlough” is utterly amazing and brilliant and one of the best books I’ve read in 2018 so far. It would have been such a shame to miss it.

I was actually quite surprised to see a review request from Tor pop up in my inbox. They’re on of my favourite publishers out there (Brandon Sanderson!!!!) and I had high, if false, expectations. I just didn’t know they had LGBT protagonists in their books too.

I absolutely loved the setting. The nightclub ambience was fascinating and the world building was brilliant. It was so easy to just get sucked into this glamorous world full of intrigues and backstabbing. There are so many little details that make the whole world feel alive and real, without lengthy info dumps. A brilliant example of how to do world building.

I won’t say too much on the plot itself, as it lives from the suspense and surprises. This is not a romance novel. It’s probably more gay literature than gay romance, even if the relationship between Cyril and Ari is essential to the plot. It’s heartbreakingly romantic. But really, this is a thriller that happens to have a gay couple in it. The plot might make you believe there’s going to be a MMF relationship but there isn’t. We have a homosexual relationship and a heterosexual one.

I usually don’t read thrillers because I’ve always felt the characters stay kind of shallow. It’s just not my genre. But here, the character development was excellent. We have three main characters: Aristide, the glamorous male stripper with a bit of an illegal side business; Cyril, the spy who can’t keep his hands off Ari, even though they’re very different; and then there’s Cordelia, also a stripper, who’s worked her way up the hard way. I loved all three of them and how they played together. Each had their own distinct voice and it’s always obvious who’s POV you’re currently reading.

Honestly, I don’t really have the words to do this book justice. I loved every single second of it and it drove me mad that I couldn’t immediately start book two. Because there’s one hell of a mean cliffhanger at the end. Yet another thing I usually can’t stand. But I guess Lara Elena Donnelly just has a way of making me love things I usually hate. The suspense nearly killed me. Definitely not recommended for people with a weak heart.

Long story short, read this book. You’ll love it. Just don’t expect a fairy-tale romance full of hearts and flowers. This is not a happy fluffy love story and I’m still unsure if we’ll ever get a happy ending. “Amberlough” is gay literature at its finest. Oh, and you might want to make sure you already have book two waiting for you.

Cover: Oh my gosh, that cover. It’s so gorgeous in it’s simplicity. I love, love, love it. Makes me sad I only have this book on my reader and not on my physical shelf.

Sales Link: Amazon

Book details: Kindle Edition, 398 pages

Published April 2018 by Tor Books (first published February 7th 2017)

ASIN: B01F20E73S

A MelanieM Review: Learn with Me (With Me #3) by Kris Jacen

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

Josiah “Siah” Kent has always loved learning; now he’s living his dream of teaching children to love it too. After getting his degrees in New Orleans, he accepted a teaching position outside of Washington DC. What a better place to be able to teach and continue learning?

Sergeant Carter May joined the Army right out of high school. He’s always struggled to succeed in school but has found a place in the military but has dreamed of getting a college degree–he’d be the first in his family if he did. Being stationed with the Presidential Firing Battery at Arlington National Cemetery will give him the opportunity to take the chance, but will he risk failing?

A chance meeting years ago in New Orleans, had sparks flying between Siah and Carter. Another chance encounter between the ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, blow those sparks into a full flame. Can Siah and Carter find some common ground to learn more about each other and a possible future together?

The With Me series from Kris Jacen has quickly become one of my favorite contemporary reads. It established itself with it’s insider knowledge of military life, what it takes to be a part of the military family (whether as part of the family unit or military one that becomes family), the emotional, physical, and mental upheavals that are to be faced, and the support one receives along the way. Especially if you are lucky enough to be adopted by the Heptad.

Each story has been a favorite. Until the next story arrives. Then that’s my favorite. And its happened again here. One, I wanted Siah and Carter’s story immediately at the end of Explore with Me (With Me #2). I knew Siah had some growing up to do, which happens before the start of this story. So too Carter who had some tough decisions to make and he did.

Secondly? The location. Jacen based her story in and around the DC Metro area. While I’m in Maryland, Virginia is just as familiar for those of us who live here. MD-DC-VA…its all the same really in one respect and the places she mentions are near and dear to my heart. Especially Arlington National Cemetery where quite a few family members are laid to rest and we visit every Memorial Day.

She’s right about the traditions and ceremonies bringing tears to your eyes during the story. You will need several tissues, deservedly so. Her descriptions are deeply moving as well as informative.

But Learn with Me (With Me #3) is special because of the characters and their romance. Between Siah and Carter, each has had a past to rise above in some way and done it. Perhaps they haven’t left it behind completely but they are dealing with it and moving forward. They are different in size, energy, even background and yet in kindness, loyalty, and an ability to see the best in others, they are so alike. Jacen did a remarkable job in creating these people and all the others here, including the Heptad (that group of soldiers whose stories are the series or whose support flows through the series).

These are layered portraits, and the people aren’t isolated but are surrounded by a family of friends, a community that adds support and a believability to their lives. Whether its a school and afternoon classes (and a circle of support) for Siah (who is a black belt as well) or the base and unit for Carter (where both friends and enemies can be found), it all feels so real and authentic.

Kris Jacen uses the framework of a romance to bring modern military life vividly alive, whether its the fears children must face, the struggles of the family, the time away from home both spouses and family feel…its all here and intimate. There’s also the tight knit community, the sense of belonging to something greater, and, yes, the service to country.

I’m already anticipating the next book in the series. It’s going to deal with some serious issues her stories hasn’t addressed yet. I can’t wait.

In the meantime, if you are new to the series, why not go to the beginning and start with Wait for Me (With Me #1) and work your way here. I highly recommend all the stories, including this one Learn with Me by Kris Jacen.

Cover art by Jared Rackler. I’m sort of over the bare torso thing but considering all Siah wanted to do when he first saw Carter was climb him like a tree this is pretty perfect.

Sales Links: MLR Books | Amazon

Book Details:

Kindle Edition, 145 pages
Published May 22nd 2018 by MLR Press
ASINB07D8J548N
Edition LanguageEnglish
SeriesWith Me #3

Kate Sherwood on Cheating, Romance and her new release All That Glitters (guest blog and giveaway)

All That Glitters by Kate Sherwood

Dreamspinners Press

Cover Art: Adrian Nicholas

Sales Links: Dreamspinner Press | Amazon

Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words is happy to have Kate Sherwood here talking about All That Glitters, one of our favorite recent contemporary romances. Welcome, Kate.

♡

The Romance Taboo by Kate Sherwood

I think I’ve gotten a bit spoiled writing m/m romance. I’ve gotten used to the greater freedom, the way readers are more open to different characterization. I’ve written drug-addicted prostitutes, asexual street kids and neurotic drama queens as romantic heroes in m/m – think I could get away with that in m/f? Probably not!

But I think I got a little cocky. (Cocky! Wow, what a useful word) I forgot that while m/m is more open than m/f, there are still some rules, and a few years ago I broke one of them in Chasing the Dragon. One of my characters cheated on the other.

It made sense to me, in terms of the character (drug-addicted prostitutes aren’t known for their good judgment or their sexual reserve) and the plot (the characters got together way too fast and I needed to show that their infatuation hadn’t solved all their problems). It was a good writing decision, in non-genre terms.

But I heard from quite a few romance readers who were really disappointed. Disgusted, even.

And I believe in the contract between authors and readers—I believe that authors have a responsibility to their readers and should work hard to meet expectations. But, but…

I also like pushing boundaries.

So after the last outing, the idea of cheating stayed with me. Is it ever acceptable for a romance novel to include cheating between the romantic leads?

Maybe if it was really long ago? And they broke up over it, for sure. And the one who was cheated on is still mad about it, but they were just kids at the time and the other character is so, so sorry… can it work for readers?

I sure hope so, because that’s the idea behind my new novel from Dreamspinner, All That Glitters. I’ve written a character who killed the other hero’s brother and I managed to get those two together without significant reader complaints (Mark of Cain). Surely I can help them work through some ancient history, no matter how painful it was?

I gave it a try. I hope it works for you guys!

About All That Glitters

No matter what he tells himself, wealthy NYC architect Liam has never been able to forget his first love, Ben. But as he approaches midlife and realizes something is missing, can he forgive himself for the worst mistake he ever made—the one that left a hole no amount of career success can fill? Or will fear keep him from the full life he really wants?

Liam and Ben were childhood sweethearts, then college boyfriends. But when Liam cheated on Ben, Ben forced himself to cut ties and move on. He’s still living in the small town where they grew up, teaching, but it’s not the life he imagined for himself as a younger man. Still, when Liam returns, he can’t risk his heart again. He certainly can’t allow himself to love Liam again after fighting so hard to get over him.

Neither man wants to let go of the past and face their apprehension at starting over. They don’t want to fall in love a second time—but sometimes love happens whether it’s wanted or not.

About the Author

Kate Sherwood started writing about the same time she got back on a horse after almost twenty years away from riding. She’d like to think she was too young for it to be a midlife crisis, but apparently she was ready for some changes!

Kate grew up near Toronto, Ontario (Canada) and went to school in Montreal, then Vancouver. But for the last decade or so she’s been a country girl. Sure, she misses some of the conveniences of the city, but living close to nature makes up for those lacks. She’s living in Ontario’s “cottage country”–other people save up their time and come to spend their vacations in her neighborhood, but she gets to live there all year round!

Since her first book was published in 2010, she’s kept herself busy with novels, novellas, and short stories in almost all the sub-genres of m/m romance. Contemporary, suspense, scifi or fantasy–the settings are just the backdrop for her characters to answer the important questions. How much can they share, and what do they need to keep? Can they bring themselves to trust someone, after being disappointed so many times? Are they brave enough to take a chance on love?

Kate’s books balance drama with humor, angst with optimism. They feature strong, damaged men who fight themselves harder than they fight anyone else. And, wherever possible, there are animals: horses, dogs, cats ferrets, squirrels… sometimes it’s easier to bond with a non-human, and most of Kate’s men need all the help they can get.

When she’s not writing as Kate Sherwood (m/m romance), there’s always Cate Cameron (m/f romance, YA romance) and Catherine Dale (everything else). There are so many stories just waiting to be discovered!

Social Media Links:

booklives.com (website and blog)

https://twitter.com/kate_sherwood

https://www.facebook.com/kate.sherwood.79

Kate Sherwood has brought a wonderful giveaway today. She is offering one prize as the e-book copy of the current release, plus as a second prize one e-book copy from her Dreamspinner backlist to two lucky readers. The first reader chosen will get their choice of prizes, the second reader chosen will get the remaining prize. Please leave your email address along with a comment for Kate.

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Tight Quarters (Out of Uniform #6) by Annabeth Albert

Publisher: Carina Press

Release Date: ebook: July 9, 2018 | print: July 31, 2018

Links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo

Excerpt

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Hello July.

More On Romance Don’ts For Readers

On Readers Romance Don’ts:

This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, July 1:

Monday, July 2:

Tuesday. July 3:

Wednesday, July 4 (Happy Independence Day!) 🇺🇸

Thursday, July 5:

Friday, July 6:

Saturday, July 7:

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All That Glitters by Kate Sherwood

Dreamspinners Press

Cover Art: Adrian Nicholas

Sales Links: Dreamspinner Press | Amazon

♡

The Romance Taboo by Kate Sherwood

About All That Glitters

About the Author

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