A MelanieM Recent Release Review: Hawaiian Fragrance (The Hawaiians 3) by Meg Amor

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

Danny’s a fourth-generation Big Islander from the wealthy Lucerno ranching family. He’s gorgeous–a mix of Portuguese male and Argentine passion, all dark-haired, smoldering sensuality. His family disowned him for being gay, and now he’s part of the Masterson-Mahikoa “lost boys” family.

When he meets the wealthy, sophisticated, sensuous Brazilian, Paolo Bastini, he’s swept off his feet into a glitzy Las Vegas lifestyle of money and luxury–the world he grew up in. But it takes Danny away from Hawai’i where his soul roams free and his family lives. He struggles as Paolo plays loosely with their partnership and thinks Danny is being “a baby” for wanting a monogamous relationship. And who is this past lover firmly wedged in Paolo’s heart?

Zane is severely deaf–finding new dance partners is hard. When he loses another one, Danny steps in to dance the tango competitions with him. Jealousy flares and things reach dangerous levels between Paolo and Danny. His adopted and birth family must bond together in a daring rescue of Danny from the depths of Brazil.

But he’s not completely out of danger. Now he’s fighting an attraction to the feminine Zane, who’s always annoyed him. Which man has his heart?

Well, here we are on book 3 of The Hawaiians and if you’ve been following my reviews, you know that I’m completely and utterly gone on these stories. Totally besotted! Hawaiian Fragrance just adds another layer of love. Its Danny’s story. Danny Lucerno is one of the “lost boys” of the Masterson-Mahikoa household, a group of older throwaway teens that one by one were found and gathered under one roof by Kulani Mahikoa (the Orchid). It’s now a two dad household with Rob Masterson added (Hawaiian Lei). Of course, in Meg Amor’s universe, no one is an island, literally. So while it is Danny’s story, its also Zane’s (another throwaway) and Zane’s connection to Danny, Danny’s past tumultuous relationship (non existent at the present) with his birth parents as he calls them and the new man in his life, Paolo, who his family isn’t all that comfortable with. So we get Danny, Zane, the twins (how I love them), Kulani and Rob, Matty and Beau, everyone who’s entwined in the lives of the Masterson-Mahikoa family. The family dynamics, as complex as they are loving, have a real family feel to them. Danny is older but when Rob and Kulani are arguing about Paolo and his relationship with Danny, the love and decisions on how to handle the situation feel both “fatherly” and responsible while still treating Danny as an adult. I love the way the different situations are worked through here, the communication avenue is left open to the teens, letting them know at all times they are loved and safe, no matter their age.

Another thing I can’t get enough of? The author’s love of Hawaii and her ability to envelope her readers with her deep affection by way of her vivid descriptions of the flora, fauna and locations around the BI. It’s lush and tropical and I can almost see and smell the beautiful aromas coming through the pages…

I pull out from Banyans and drive us out to Honaunau on the South Kona coast. In the small town of Kainaliu, I stop and buy us a pink can each of Pass-O-Guava Nectar-POG-at Oshima Drug’s. Zane points at the “buying cherry” signs for the ripe red coffee berry, and we both fill our lungs and exhale loudly, laughing. We always do this when they’re roasting Kona coffee, and the rich scent fills the air. If we continue along Mamalahoa Highway, we’ll get whiffs of fresh hot oil frying local Kona Chips too but today we wind down Napo’opo’o Road.

I love this road; it always relaxes me. Lush jacarandas snow their purple blossoms everywhere, and the flaming orange flowers of the poincianas are popping. There’s thick tropical growth either side of the road, towering avocado trees, coffee farms, and ocean views around every curve, all the way down the hill.

We cut across the flat bottom road to Honaunau. It’s a good time of the day to be here. Not many people getting into the water at Two Step, mostly just locals catching a late afternoon swim or snorkel. The energy will be good for Zane too.

Ah, the combination of Danny and Zane. Its Danny’s story, but it needs Zane too. Zane’s deaf so his speech here is that of someone who is deaf. No it doesn’t take any getting use to and in the acknowledgement and dedication, Amor explains the speech pattern she uses for Zane and the friend she based Zane’s speech pattern on “… Janet from years ago who had never worn hearing aids. Sam heavily consulted on this book and the upcoming Hawaiian Ginger to give accurate portrayals of sounds, speech, and things that go wrong with hearing aids.” To me, it makes Zane that much more authentic and real. I love Zane and together with Danny, they have become two of my favorite character in this series.

Danny has a lot of things to work out here, emotionally, intellectually. Parts of this story are suspenseful, gripping and gut wrenching. I was not expecting that in this story. Plus Amor throws in the wonderful element of dance. Zane is a dancer, but so is someone else, totally unexpected. The beauty of expression and desire of a certain Latin dance is explored here and it’s so well done. There were so many surprises here.

Really, the characters are so beautifully written, the storylines incredible and the locations from BI to Las Vegas to places I can’t tell you without spoiling it are wild, real and will make you want to take flight and be there (mostly).

Hawaiian Fragrance (The Hawaiians 3) by Meg Amor is a deep joy of a book. Its has romance, family, suspense, and the possibility of a new love on the horizon. It ends like a Fred and Ginger movie, lightly, lovingly, and getting us ready for the next one in the series, Hawaiian Ginger which is Zane’s story. I have it now in my hands. Review coming soon! But if you haven’t found or started any of these great books yet, get started! I love this whole series and the author has promised more to come. I highly recommend them all.

Cover art by Syneca Featherstone is again gorgeous and as lush as Hawaii itself.

Sales Links: Loose id LLC | AMAZON

Book Details:

ebook

Published May 2nd 2017 by Loose Id

ISBN13 9781682523568

Series The Hawaiians :

Hawaiian Lei (The Hawaiians, #1)

Hawaiian Orchid (The Hawaiians, #2)

Hawaiian Fragrance (The Hawaiians, #3)

Hawaiian Ginger (The Hawaiians, #4) coming soon

An Ali Review : False Start (Wilmington Breakers #2) by Sloan Johnson

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Nixon Cross isn’t wired to share his life with anyone. He’d considered a relationship once, but after the one man patient enough to put up with all his quirks shut him down, he committed all of his energy to football and helping his players. Now, one of his players need more help than Nixon can provide and his former flame is the one man who will know what to do.

Retired NAFL player Lincoln Sims had no choice but to stay in the closet; he was a professional athlete at a time when it was impossible to be honest about his sexuality. After retiring, he confessed his secret to his wife and son because he was tired of living a lie. Now, he’s ready to live his life. Nixon Cross is the man he left behind but could never forget.

Can these men find a way to recover from their false start years earlier?

This was my first time reading this author and I really enjoyed her writing style. This book was a little more serious than I thought it would be when I went into it. That’s a good thing though. I think the author did a very good job handling some difficult issues. People, myself included, love sports and expect a lot from athletes, but we rarely think about the consequences for them later in life.

The story is told by alternating points of view between the two men. I really liked both of the MC’s. It was very refreshing to get two older MC’s. They were in their 40’s and I think they were presented in a realistic manner. There was no drama and no bad communication tropes. Once they decide to be together they work hard on making things work out with each other. I think the author did a very good job making both Nixon and Lincoln likable and people you could empathize with.

The two men are away from each through parts of the book but the author still managed to show us how much they meant to each other. I really bought into their romance and I was rooting for these two the entire time. This is a second chance romance which is one of my favorite tropes. It was so well done here.

This is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone. I have not read book one and I was able to completely understand and enjoy this. That being said, I enjoyed this enough that I will be going back and reading the first story.

If you enjoy sports romance and/or second chance loves I really recommend this. There are a lot of good things going on in this book.

Cover Art: The cover was done by Cover Me, Darling and I thought it was well done. It compliments the first book in the series and represents the story pretty well. My only complaint is that the cover model looks too young to be either MC.

Sales Link: Amazon

Book Details:

Kindle Edition, 1st edition, 231 pages
Published May 13th 2017
ASINB07287YH28
SeriesWilmington Breakers #2

A Jeri Release Day Review: Return of the Chauffeur’s Son by Tara Lain

Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5

This was a cute book. It was an homage to Sabrina, the Audrey Hepburn classic with a modern- and gay- spin. Set in the Napa Valley wine country with Luca as an up and coming chef, his childhood best friend and crush James and James’ older brother Dylan. The brothers grew up affluent, sons of a winery owner- while Luca and his father the chauffeur lived over the garage.

I really liked that this book was set in wine country. Having lived there for 10 years, I know how cut throat restaurant and wine business can be- especially when there are awards to be handed out. Tara Lain got that completely right.

All of the characters were interesting in this story. From the three main characters to all of the parents and the secondary characters. Each held their own without distracting from the story- in fact they really enhanced it.

Like I said, it was a cute story. There was a good balance between the drama of the restaurant side of the story and the sweetness of the romance side. Although I did want to really smack James upside the head more than once.

If you are looking for something sweet to perhaps cleanse the palate, but still want a good story- this one is for you.

Cover Artist: Reese Dante. Cover is cute and inviting.

Sales Links

Book Details:

Kindle Edition, 200 pages
Expected publication: June 2nd 2017 by Dreamspinner Press
Original TitleReturn of the Chauffeur’s Son
ASINB06XBFXFG1
Edition LanguageEnglish

Tara Lain on Tara’s Travels and her release ‘Return of the Chauffeur’s Son’ (guest post, excerpt and giveaway)

Will the promising chef with dreams of starting his own restaurant and winery see the dark, quiet lure of his long time crush’s conservative older brother, Dylan Armstrong?

Tara’s Travels by Tara Lain

Hi. I’m so glad to be here at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words to talk about my new release, Return of the Chauffeur’s Son. This book is loosely based on the tropes and themes of a wonderful old romantic movie called Sabrina, but while that film took place in and around New York, this story is set in Napa Valley, CA. As I was writing the book, I was taken back to some of my favorite experiences in Napa (drinking champagne high among them) and that got me thinking about other top vacations I’ve taken. So I thought I might share some of those with you. Here are some of my favorite vacays –

Salvador, Brazil – While this same trip included Rio de Janiero, which is amazing and astounding, the place in Brazil that most impacted me was Salvador in the Bahia region. Sultry and warm, Salvador is the home of voodoo and it shimmers with a palpable mystery and spirituality. The food in Brazil is phenomenal in general, but in Salvador it just blew me away. Lots of chicken, seafood and rice, moqueca seafood stew is the regional dish. All of Brazil has much history of slavery since they were the last country to have slaves, and Salvador has the beautiful slave church. If you plan to make the trek to Brazil, don’t miss Salvador.
New York – I’ve been to NYC a gazillion times and never get tired of the visit. I’m a huge fan of live theater, so on trips to the big city, my husband and I often get tickets to 5, 6 or more shoes. One trip, we tmed it right to get opeara tickets at the Met and saw Marriage of Figaro and Madame Butterfly in never-to-be-forgotten performances.
Paris – I’ve also had the privilege of visiting Paris more than once. I think it’s the most beautiful city in the world (even including Venice that gives it a run for its money) and is so lively and ever changing, it’s always a wonder. The food is at least as good as people say, such that even a simple omelet can be a culinary experience. There are concerts going on all the time in amazing, historic venues – like the time we saw a string quartet perform in Sainte-Chappelle.
Ashland, Oregon – I know this seems very unexotic compared to the others, but Ashland has a justifiable famous Shakespeare Festival that captivates me. For my birthday this year, my honey and I are going back to Ashland to see a bunch of plays. The town is charming – very artsy and walkable like Laguna Beach – and it makes for a fun, relaxing vacation.

Add to that, trips to Napa Valley where I love to hop from winery to winery for little tastes and then finally settle in with a good meal and a nice glass of champagne.

I call Return of the Chauffeur’s Son my champagne novel. It’s full of sparkle, tang and romance. I hope you enjoy it.

Return of the Chauffeur’s Son

By Tara Lain

Blurb:

Luca McGrath may be returning to Napa Valley, California, as a promising chef with dreams of starting his own restaurant and winery, but his heart still lives with the bad-boy son of a billionaire, James Armstrong. Luca spent his childhood playing games with the golden boy of California society, so blinded by James he barely noticed the dark, quiet lure of his conservative older brother, Dylan Armstrong.

But now Luca’s home, and his own powers of attraction are enough to make James question his dedicated heterosexuality and his promised marriage to a wealthy and powerful businesswoman. The obvious attraction between Luca and James spurs Dylan into action—but he’s fighting a huge secret. While Luca dreamed of James, Dylan dreamed of Luca. When Luca gets caught in the struggle between the brothers and gets accused of culinary espionage he’s ready to chuck the fairy tale—unable to even imagine Dylan’s power to make his dreams come true.

Excerpt

James grabbed her, picked her up, and swung her in a circle before setting her down and starting a very accomplished foxtrot.

Luca watched them dance off, his gut twisting. He liked Nila so much. Why the hell did she have to love James?

A big warm hand clamped his shoulder. His breath sucked in. Slowly, Dylan turned him, and when they were face-to-face, Dylan wrapped Luca in his arms and began to dance.

If Sasquatch had just asked him to waltz, he wouldn’t have been more amazed. “Uh, will your guests be okay with same-sex dancing?”

Dylan whispered close to his ear, rumbly and low, “Ask me if I care.”

Luca smiled. “Dylan, do you care?”

“Not one tiny fuck.”

Every hair on Luca’s body stood on end. The hairs made a matched set with his cock, which leaped to attention and saluted. Whoa. Keep your distance or he’ll know. The old song said something about needing someone all the way, and his penis nodded in agreement. I could run! Get in my new car and drive. Uh, that would be the new car Dylan practically bought for me. He swallowed. “Thank you for helping with my car. I could never have bought it without your, uh, family discount.” He laughed tightly.

“You and Francis have always been a part of the family.” The deep vibration of Dylan’s voice tickled through Luca’s chest and dove lower. “I remember when you and James used to play like brothers.”

Not a subtle reminder of fraternity. “Yeah, how many times did we turn the great room into a gigantic fort?”

“I seem to recall being turned into the enemy and attacked once or twice.”

“We did love to follow you around.”

His voice got closer and breath warmed Luca’s ear. “I should have realized you were a little too interested in the fact that all my dates were guys.”

Two could play this game. He slipped his lips closer to Dylan’s ear. “You were my role model. I used to peek out the window and watch you kiss boys under the big tree by the pool.”

Dylan laughed deep and throaty. “I finally figured out you were watching.”

“Once I saw a guy go down on you. Your head was back against the tree trunk, and I could hear you moaning.” He whispered softly, “It was the first time I ever came that wasn’t a nocturnal emission.”

The sound from Dylan’s throat sounded half snort and half moan. “I didn’t know about that time, or I might have come inside and paddled your butt.”

“I might have liked it.” He laughed. “Right after that I realized I never felt that way when I saw girls.”

___________________________________________________________

Website: http://www.taralain.com

Blog: http://www.taralain.com/blog

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4541791.Tara_Lain

Twitter: http://twitter.com/taralain

FB Page: http://www.facebook.com/taralain

Tara Lain writes the Beautiful Boys of Romance in LGBT erotic romance novels that star her unique, charismatic heroes. Her first novel was published in January of 2011 and she’s now somewhere around book 37. Her best-selling novels have garnered awards for Best Series, Best Contemporary Romance, Best Paranormal Romance, Best Ménage, Best LGBT Romance, Best Gay Characters, and Tara has been named Best Writer of the Year in the LRC Awards. In her other job, Tara owns an advertising and public relations firm. She often does workshops on both author promotion and writing craft. She lives with her soul-mate husband and her soul-mate dog near the sea in California where she sets a lot of her books. Passionate about diversity, justice, and new experiences, Tara says on her tombstone it will say “Yes”!

About the Author

Tara Lain writes the Beautiful Boys of Romance in LGBT erotic romance novels that star her unique, charismatic heroes. Her first novel was published in January of 2011 and she’s now somewhere around book 32. Her best-selling novels have garnered awards for Best Series, Best Contemporary Romance, Best Paranormal Romance, Best Ménage, Best LGBT Romance, Best Gay Characters, and Tara has been named Best Writer of the Year in the LRC Awards. In her other job, Tara owns an advertising and public relations firm. She often does workshops on both author promotion and writing craft. She lives with her soul-mate husband and her soul-mate dog near the sea in California where she sets a lot of her books. Passionate about diversity, justice, and new experiences, Tara says on her tombstone it will say “Yes”!

You can find Tara at Lain

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A MelanieM Release Day Review: Breaking Bonds (The Walker Boys 2) by Ari McKay

Rating: 4 stars out of 5

From the frying pan into the fire.

After a critic’s review attacks both Chef Liam Walker’s culinary skills and his personal life, Liam can no longer take the heat of the cutthroat New York City restaurant scene. He needs to get out of the kitchen—at least long enough to cool down and regroup.

At the Overlook Resort in North Carolina, Liam meets owner Carter Galloway. Carter has a passion for the hospitality business to rival Liam’s own, and it’s not hard to see where their shared interests—and attraction—could lead. But Carter has no interest in a fling, and Liam has no intention of walking away from the career he fought so hard for. If they want a taste of happiness together, they’ll have to find the courage to break the bonds threatening to pull them apart.

Breaking Bonds by Ari McKay is the second in The Walker Boys series and my favorite so far. For me, Breaking Bonds has everything the first one, Striking Sparks, didn’t. From the gorgeous setting in the Smokies (a favorite location of mine) near Asheville to the mouthwatering food descriptions and finally to the great chemistry between two layered MCs, Breaking Bonds has exactly what I look for in a sweet contemporary romance.

Breaking Bonds is about the ties that bind us, in this case it’s Carter to his family’s expectations of him and their future for him which run counter to his dreams. Its also about their lack of acceptance of his homosexuality, thinking it “phase” or action to get back at them. Torn between trying to be a “good son” and himself, it’s cost him financially and emotionally everything as he chose his own path. Carter is so open a character, so vulnerable that it’s easy to feel for him at this moment where he could lose everything. That McKay surrounds with a staff every bit as charming and easy to connect with is a plus. Rocky, the young chef, is especially appealing.

Chef Liam Walker also has many ties around him, some he acutely aware of that’s pushing him in directions he’s not even sure he wants. He’s too busy to think about directions any more, consumed by the restaurant and his mentor’s and owner Marco’s demands. Primed for the ultimate success in NYC, one bad review and rash action because of anger issues sees Liam needing a vacation from the stress and demands of the restaurant. That first night at the Overlook does not go well for either man. It’s so realistically written that you both cringe and laugh at the same time, then as it plays out the humor turns to sadness for all involved.

The romance here is balanced by the needs of the men to figure out their futures, their businesses and how to break the ties, the bonds holding them back. As they do so, we also get wonderful recipes, a lush location and a great cast of secondary character (yes, I’m talking about Rocky…I adore that boy).

I have really come to love the Dreamspun Desires line from Dreamspinner Press and this story is a great example why. Its sweet, romantic and you can read it as a standalone without having read the first one. I wonder what the Walker Boys have in store for us next. Bring it on, Ari McKay!

Cover Artist: Bree Archer gets the backdrop just right and the character too. Very inviting.

Sales Links

Dreamspinner Press | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Book Details:

ebook, Dreamspun Desires #35, 190 pages
Expected publication: June 1st 2017 by Dreamspinner Press
Original TitleBreaking Bonds
ISBN 163533151X (ISBN13: 9781635331516)
Edition LanguageEnglish
Series The Walker Boys #2

An Alisa Review: Smitten by R.W. Clinger

Rating: 2 stars out of 5

Feeling somewhat blue about his singlehood and dull life as a finance advisor, Jesse Fitzpatrick is about to find his world turned upside down.

Jesse’s best friend, Carr de Vantino, is coming home from the jungles of Ecuador. He’ll only be home for four days, and it’s a very rare occasion, since Carr has been traveling the world for the last twenty years for Armistice Coalition; a group similar to the Peace Corps. Excited about Carr’s visit, Jesse has to face the bittersweet reality of life — he’s always been smitten with Carr, although Carr only treats him as a friend. It’s obvious he lacks any romance or desire for Jesse.

Carr’s visit becomes interesting, though, when he slips into bed with Jesse. As secrets of Carr’s life unfold, Jesse starts to hope the traveling man has grown smitten for him. Do they have a chance at becoming a romantic couple? Or will Carr take the next flight back to the jungle?

This was a nice idea for a story but the execution didn’t work for me and I was just left scratching my head trying to understand the characters. Jesse’s best friend is coming to visit for a few days before he is back off to the jungle, at least that is what he thinks. For the last 20 years they have just spent a few days together here or there with Jesse traveling to Carr or Carr coming back to their hometown.

So, Jesse talks about Carr fondly, as you would think of a friend and then suddenly he decides he’s smitten but then, oh wait, he is in love. He spends so much time trying to guess Carr’s intentions based on his actions and suddenly when Carr makes a move Jesse says that he has always known Carr’s feeling and he was just waiting for him to act. Huh? Jesse’s thoughts and actions never really added up to me and I had trouble with the “secrets” that Carr apparently kept from Jesse throughout their entire friendship.

The cover art by Written Ink Designs gives a nice visual of Carr, the world traveler.

Sales Links: JMS Books | Amazon | B&N

Book Details:

ebook, 49 pages

Published: April 22, 2017 by JMS Books

ISBN: 9781634863292

Edition Language: English

A Lila Audiobook Review: Whiskey Business (States of Love) by Avon Gale and Kirt Graves (Narrator)

Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

Ryder Waites will do anything to keep the tiny town of Gallows Grove, Kentucky, from vanishing off the map—even sell his family’s whiskey recipe to Bluegrass Bourbon in Lexington. Hopeful that the larger company can provide necessary improvements to the distillery, Ryder’s ultimate goal is to get Gallows Grove on the Bourbon Trail… and bring in much-needed tourism revenue. But to keep producing Hanged Man Bourbon in Gallows Grove, he’ll have to convince company liaison, unbearably stuffy and seriously hot Adam Keller, that he’s worth the investment.

Adam comes from an old-money family, but he’s determined to make his own way in the world. When he’s sent to Gallows Grove, he questions the life choices that led him to a rented room in a funeral home, in a town full of macabre-themed businesses. And he doesn’t know what to make of Ryder, the descendant of bootleggers who’s on a mission to save his strange town from extinction. When Adam and Ryder put aside their initial mistrust, the results are as smooth as good whiskey. But after Adam’s assignment ends, he’ll have to decide if small-town life and a future with Ryder is to his tastes.

Whiskey Business is a sweet, simple story of two men searching for their place within their families’ legacies. It has a bit of a supernatural feel, closer to magical realism than any paranormal tint. But overall, it only enhances the reading experience and adds to the town’s legend and unusual inhabitants. All the puns based on the Gallows Grove’s name and history give the story a comedic relief and sense of home.

Most times, I prefer one MC over the other, but in this case, Adam and Ryder are equally loving and interesting. There aren’t the traditional men portrait in most romances and perhaps that adds to their charms. Yes, their story follows a traditional trope, but they add their own spin.

All the secondary characters and the town itself play an important part in this story. It’s a novella with all the components of a well-written novel. There’s no angst or deep sadness, but the MCs longing for a legacy of their own without erasing their families’ achievements is a constant they both dealt with. And to make it all better, we get a very sweet HEA.

This is my first audiobook by Kirt Graves and I enjoyed the distinction he created between the main characters. The play of words he used to highlight the author’s words in this matter and how important the accents were to understand the differences between those living in different part of the state was excellent. The secondary characters were as well developed.

I’m not familiar with Aaron Anderson’s work, but this cover goes perfectly with the story and its simplicity.

Sales Links: Dreamspinner | iTunes | Audible

Audiobook Details:

Narrator: Kirt Graves
Length: 6 hours 14 minutes
Published: April 18, 2017 (Audio Edition) by Dreamspinner Press
ASIN: B06ZYDB6ZV
Edition Language: English

Check Out Tara Lain’s New Release! Return of the Chauffeur’s Son by Tara Lain (excerpt and giveaway)

Will the promising chef with dreams of starting his own restaurant and winery see the dark, quiet lure of his long time crush’s conservative older brother, Dylan Armstrong?

Return of the Chauffeur’s Son

By Tara Lain

Blurb:

Excerpt

Return of the Chauffeur’s Son by Tara Lain

The Champagne of Romances

A cool voice came from behind Luca. “And of course you know that Nila is James’s fiancée.” Dylan stepped into their circle and gave that little smile that never quite warmed his whole face. “Good evening, all. Sorry I’m late. Why is Friday always the day for crises?”

Luca could barely hear him over the dull thud in his ears. Fiancée. Of course. Made sense. She was a tech wizard among tech wizards. Add beautiful and charming. Then add female. The correct sex for the heterosexual Armstrong son, no matter what he said about sucking cocks.

Luca glanced at Dylan’s chiseled face. Bastard. So that’s why you invited us. He wanted to parade James’s fiancée in front of Luca and remind him exactly what he couldn’t have. Luca smiled tightly. “I suppose crises are in the eye of the beholder.”

Francis gave Luca’s arm a squeeze. Right. Don’t insult your father’s employers.

His father looked around. “Is William not feeling well tonight?”

Esther frowned just a little. “Tired, mostly, but I’m sure he’d love to see Luca. Why don’t you take him back, Francis? You know the way.”

“I will. Come on, son.”

Luca followed his father into the hall that led to William and Esther’s suites. On the opposite side of the house, both James and Dylan had their own bedrooms, offices, gyms, whatever they needed. That way the whole family could regard the home as their private quarters when they wanted to. Of course, both sons had their own apartments in San Francisco too.

Luca murmured, “Sorry, Dad.”

“Nothing to be sorry for. Dylan’s play was heavy-handed, and he deserved what he got. I sincerely apologize, son. I didn’t realize Nila was engaged to James. I’d heard they were seeing each other, but James sees a lot of women.”

Luca stopped walking and leaned against the thick plaster wall. “Before you came out of your room this evening, James showed up at our door. He was more than flirtatious. Pretty damned confusing, especially in light of this announcement.”

His dad shook his head. “I can’t claim to know what goes through that man’s head. But no matter what game he’s playing, that doesn’t alter the fact that James is both heterosexual and engaged in a liaison that’s very important to the family. I’ve heard Dylan talking about the need to develop wearable technology. I realize now that some kind of agreement with Nila’s company must be what he has in mind. If that’s true, it’s worth millions, maybe more, to Armstrong Technologies. Be careful, Luca. It looks like a big-stakes game.”

Luca wiped a hand over his neck. “I didn’t start this, Dad. Seriously. Sure, I was flirting a little, but then he started coming on. Hinting at how he’d change his orientation for me. Even tonight, he keeps looking at me like I’m ice cream.”

“I noticed, and I’m sure everyone else did too, especially Dylan. I believe James is just playing. You’re a damned attractive man, and he’s known to lust after anything beautiful.”

“I’m not exactly the right gender to interest him. Shit, did Dylan really have to make such an issue of it?”

“James may be kidding, but I’d say Dylan isn’t counting on that. One never got rich or richer counting on the twists and turns of James Armstrong’s affections.”

Damn, so true.

They kept walking to William Armstrong’s study, but a little cloud of sadness rode Luca’s shoulder.

About the Author

You can find Tara at Lain

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A Free Dreamer Review: This Is Not a Love Story (Love Story Universe) by Suki Fleet

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

When fifteen-year-old Romeo’s mother leaves one day and doesn’t return, he finds himself homeless and trying to survive on the streets. Mute and terrified, his silence makes him vulnerable, and one night he is beaten by a gang of other kids, only to be rescued by a boy who pledges to take care of him.

Julian is barely two years older than Romeo. A runaway from an abusive home, he has had to make some difficult choices and sells himself on the street to survive. Taking care of Romeo changes him, gives him a purpose in life, gives him hope, and he tries to be strong and keep his troubles with drugs behind him. But living as they do is slowly destroying him, and he begins to doubt he can be strong enough.

This is the story of their struggle to find a way off the streets and stay together at all costs. But when events threaten to tear them apart, it is Romeo who must find the strength within himself to help Julian (and not let their love story turn into a Shakespearean tragedy).

I’ve been a huge fan of Suki Fleet for years now, ever since I first stumbled across one of her stories online. I’ve loved all of the books I’ve read by her so far and “This is Not a Love Story” is no exception.

This book is simply and utterly brilliant. It’s incredibly bittersweet and had me hooked from the beginning. The story of Romeo and Julian is so very sad and yet so very beautiful. Their love for each other is obvious, no matter what they’re faced with. I loved both of them and their story tore me apart. And yet it also made me smile, because their love was always shining brightly, there was always a bit of hope, no matter how hopeless the situation might seem.

Romeo and Julian are faced with a lot of hardships that come with living on the streets, making this book anything but a light read. If you’re easily triggered by these things, you might want to pass on this book. It’s never overly graphic, but it’s still obviously there, the consequences not glossed over or ignored. Because of the whole theme of the book and the somewhat explicit sex scenes, I’d call this a New Adult story. Probably not suitable for most readers under 15 or 16.

It was really interesting to see how Romeo and Julian changed and developed throughout the book, how Romeo becomes more confident with his disability. Romeo being mute was definitely an important part of the story, but it’s not what the story was ABOUT. It was simply yet another obstacle to stop the both of them from leading a “normal” life.

The ending was really well done. It’s happy but not overly cheesy or unrealistic. It was very fitting.

Long story short: “This is Not a Love Story” is utterly brilliant, the kind of book that leaves a lasting impression. And I definitely can’t wait to get my hands on the second part of this universe.

Cover:The cover is simple but absolutely fitting. The bleak skyline of London with the title in bright, hopeful colours is a perfect representation of the book’s tone. Well done!

Buy Links: Harmony Ink | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Book details:

ebook, 270 pages
Published May 22nd 2014 by Harmony Ink (first published March 22nd 2014)
Original TitleThis Is Not a Love Story
ISBN139781632160423
Edition LanguageEnglish
SeriesLove Story Universe
CharactersRomeo Danilov, Julian Lavelle

A MelanieM Release Day Review:Frank at Heart (Foothills Pride #6) by Pat Henshaw

Rating: 3.75 stars out of 5

A Foothills Pride Story

Everything about thirty-five-year-old Stone Acres hardware store owner Frank McCord is old-fashioned—from his bow tie and overalls to the way he happily makes house calls to his dreams of lasting romance, true love, and marriage. Frank’s predecessors have run the store and been mainstays in the small California town for over a century. While genial Frank upholds tradition and earns the respect of friends and neighbors, he fears he’s too dull and old to attract a husband.

Then handsome thirty-six-year-old electronic games designer Christopher Darling and his fifteen-year-old son, Henry, come into his life. Christopher has everything Frank could want in a potential partner: charm, kindness, and compatibility. Also, he’s a terrific father to Henry. When their Stone Acres home turns out to be uninhabitable, Frank offers the Darlings temporary lodging in his ancestral farmhouse, where he and his tenant Emil reside. Since Emil thinks Frank is his, sparks fly. Suddenly, Frank’s monotonous life promises to explode with love and threatens to change him forever.

In Frank at Heart, Pat Henshaw packs a lot of storylines into 96 pages. Starting with Frank McCord, you have a character traumatized at his mother’s death (and subsequent burial), who’s never recovered. His is a life lived of blandness, kindness and trying to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, down to their clothing style. In other words, he’s not really living, he’s coasting. What sparks him out of his rut is newcomer Christopher and his son Henry. Henry needs a job for the summer and applies at the hardware store. I love the character of Henry. Henry is as much responsible for drawing Frank out as is his father. Highly intelligent,geeky and gay, Henry see Frank’s hardware store as something wonderful and Henry loves to see another kindred spirit working there. That it comes with a gorgeous dad, well outstanding. Christopher I liked too. A software designer, he seems to be lacking in general commonsense elsewhere, which was an issue for me. You spend tons of money yet you don’t get the standard inspections? Little things like that bothered me, although the author explained me away as having Christopher still dealing with divorce issues. So I guess that could work.

I did love the descriptions of the hardware store, we have one like it nearby. Old fashioned in that they still carry things that the major box stores don’t, with a certain aura of leather harnesses and canning goods wafting about, Henshaw makes Frank’s store vivid and real. I loved it as much as Frank does.

The romance between Frank and Christopher was believable and sweet, as was the connection between all three characters of Frank, Christopher and Henry. You could see them being a family in the future.

My only real issue here is with the character of Emil. The short length of this story isn’t enough to deal with the character of Emil and his place in this story. Too much revolves around him yet it really doesn’t come together. At the beginning of the story, Emil says he has no further interest in Frank, we’re told Emil is a tenant in Frank’s house. Yet later all these other details come pouring out that make no sense because we have no foundation for them. Frank at Heart needed to be at least double in length to adequately deal with this aspect of the story. If you cut it out and enlarge on the problems with the foundations of the house alone (which I thought were fascinating and nice seeing Abe Behr again), then this would have been a better story imo.

As it is, Frank at Heart is a sweet romance, lacking some substance but with enjoyable characters and a great setting. The length is such the reading just flies by. The Foothills Pride series is a wonderful one and this is another sweet installment in that series.

Cover Artist: AngstyG does a beautiful job with the background and models. Love it.

Sales Links

Dreamspinner Press | Amazon

Book Details:

ebook, 95 pages
Expected publication: May 31st 2017 by Dreamspinner Press
ISBN139781635336313
SeriesFoothills Pride #6

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Tara’s Travels by Tara Lain

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