An Alisa Audiobook Review: Camp H.O.W.L. by Bru Baker and Dorian Bane (Narrator)

Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5

Moonmates exist, but getting together is going to be a beast….

When Adrian Rothschild skipped his “werewolf puberty,” he assumed he was, somehow, human. But he was wrong, and he’s about to go through his Turn with a country between him and his Pack—scared, alone, and eight years late.

Dr. Tate Lewis’s werewolf supremacist father made his Turn miserable, and now Tate works for Camp H.O.W.L. to ease the transition for young werewolves. He isn’t expecting to offer guidance to a grown man—or find his moonmate in Adrian. Tate doesn’t even believe in the legendary bond; after all, his polygamist father claimed five. But it’s clear Adrian needs him, and if Tate can let his guard down, he might discover he needs Adrian too.

A moonmate is a wolf’s missing piece, and Tate is missing a lot of pieces. But is Adrian up to the challenge?

This was a nice story. Both of these characters had a lot of their own issues to get through for their relationship to work. Adrian doesn’t connect the dots until it’s almost too late that he is going to go through his Turn. Tate has made his life helping the young werewolves successfully complete their change and even if he’s hiding from himself.

Adrian has been living as a disappointment to his family ever since he didn’t go through his Turn like all those his age and I could feel his sadness and how detached he feels from his family because of this. Tate has been running from the memory of his childhood for so long and helping others but you could see that even as he succeeds in helping most of the teens he doesn’t have a deep connection or friendship with many people.

I could see that they were both looking for somewhere to belong or someone to belong to but were afraid to voice that. I still have to wonder at the end of story what about Adrian’s genetics caused him to go through the Turn late and it didn’t seem that anyone knew or seemed inclined to really find out. I loved that they were both able to find somewhere to belong and be together with the support of Adrian’s family and their friends.

Dorian Bane did a great job narrating this story. I was able to connect with the characters and feel their emotions in his reading as he used different voices for the characters. His voice changes so much you really get to see the differences and personality of the characters.

Cover art by Aaron Anderson is very nice and works well for this story.

Sales Links: Audible | Amazon | iTunes

Audiobook Details:

Audiobook, 6 hrs 55 min
Published: January 12, 2018 (ebook first published November 1, 2017) by Dreamspinner Press
Edition Language: English

Series: Dreamspun Beyond

A Lila Audiobook Review: Off the Beaten Path by Cari Z. and Jack Wesley (Narrator)

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

When Ward Johannsen’s little girl Ava shifted into a werewolf, she was taken into custody by the feds and shipped off to the nearest pack, all ties between father and daughter severed. Ward burned every bridge he had discovering her location, and then almost froze to death in the Colorado mountains tracking her new pack down. And that’s just the beginning of his struggle.

Henry Dormer is an alpha werewolf and an elite black ops soldier who failed his last mission. He returns home, hoping for some time to recuperate and help settle the pack’s newest member, a little pup named Ava who can’t shift back to her human form. Instead he meets Ward, who refuses to leave his daughter without a fight. The two men are as different as night and day, but their respect for each other strikes a spark of mutual interest that quickly grows into a flame. They might find something special together—love, passion, and even a family—if they can survive trigger-happy pack guardians, violent werewolf politics, and meddling government agencies that are just as likely to get their alpha soldiers killed as bring them home safely.

Off The Beaten Path is one of the best stories I have read or listened to this year. The actual plot, characters, and settings were fresh and interesting even when it was a shifter story. The world-build goes hand-in-hand with the current time and it’s easy to imagine this semi-dystopian place where werewolves are part of everyday society.

The pacing in the story gives the reader enough information about where the story was heading without missing the opportunity to include small details like smells and the weather. Even the type of cars, electronics, and clothes played an important role without weighting the story down.

The only thing I wanted more of were details about the pack’s life after everything was set and done. How everything changed and how everyone reacted. How they dealt with the changes and the new work—if any—the alphas got assigned.

Overall, this is a perfect story for those who want something different. It has a lovely romance, the right about of smexy times, a lot of flirting, angsts, and drama without taking from the tension and the serious side of the plot. It has great balance and a hit of humor.

The narration by Jack Wesley gave the book the extra push needed to make it four dimensional. It was more than then narration, it was the whole production. From the characterizations to the distinctions when the scenes took place outside or over the phone. Even the video calls had their own distinct feel. It was worth listening to it.

The cover by Brooke Albrecht shows Ward and Henry in front of a setting that matches the story’s descriptions. It really works.

Sales Links: Dreamspinner | Audible | iTunes

Audiobook Details:

Narrator: Jack Wesley

Length: 6 hours 23 minutes

Published: January 12, 2018 (Audio Edition) by Dreamspinner Press
ASIN: B078Y8KP96
Edition Language: English

Gay Superheroes and This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Gay Superheroes

Last week I started off the discussion of LGBT Superheroes because of the new film Black Panther and the colossal response that’s its engendered, due in no small part to representation. Of course it helps that its an outstanding movie too. But people of color are seeing themselves represented in a major motion picture in a way that they’ve never seen before and perhaps never been possible before. Its origin? A comic called Black Panther.

I don’t think you can underestimate the power of seeing yourself represented…in a book, graphic or not, or on a screen, small or large. The above section of a comic book panel belongs to a long running comic book called Life with Archie. Here’s the full cover:

Amazing isn’t it. More and more of the regular comics introduced gay characters or had characters come “out of the closet” in recent years. Anyone remember seeing this Green Lantern panel?

And while the “mainstream” comics have been busy, so have many Quiltbag authors for writing LGBT superhero books and graphic novels. Yes, it turns out there is a burgeoning niche and demand here. We want to see gay superheroes too!

Some of the ones I love?

Katey Hawthorne’s Superpowered Love series (up to eight books now)
Andrea Speed’s Infected Series (Roan) up to eight books minus the connected series
Light by Nathan Burgoine
Panopolis by Cari Z

Here are some of the wonderful Gay Superhero Recommendations from all of you:

From Jen:

Here are some that I found:
KIM & KIM https://www.comixology.com/Kim-Kim-1/digital-comic/396452
MIDNIGHTER & APOLLO https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midnighter_and_Apollo
AMERICA CHAVEZ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miss_America_(America_Chavez)

And here’s one that I read. It is not quite traditional superheroes, but the kids do battle bad things with magic. MAGIC BOY BASIL https://magicalboybasil.com

From Purple Reader:

Oh boy, now we’re talkin’! I’ll be seeing BP this week, and now you are stoking my love of superheroes even more. I’m looking forward to see what others rec. There’s some fanfic that is decent, as well, as well as gay sidekicks (and then there’s separating out paranormal powers from superhero stories), but here are ones with gay MCs that I’ve read and enjoyed over the years:

– QUEEROES by Bereznai – light-hearted look at gay teens w/ powers. My first such story – me: “What?! There are gay superheroes?!” *faints*.
– HERO by Moore – misfit group of teen superheroes.
– MASKS series by Thorne – another team of YA superheros, still enjoyable.
– BROKEN HEROS series by Perdita – now how about some college superheroes.
– FIERCE by Rosen – or a nerdy college freshman.
– PANOPOLIS series by Cari Z – creative take that has you rooting for the villain.
– WAYNE OF GOTHAM by Hickman – Not the best, but decent for me – it’s a gay Dark Knight after all.
– KING CAGE series by Mike Stop Continues – new & offbeat; urban graffiti superhero.

Ami

I think Roan and Holden from “INFECTED” series by Andrea Speed to be LGBTQ superheroes :). I admit I don’t follow comic. Not my cup of tea. So I don’t know much about LGBTQ superhero in comic unless they’re being turned into movie

Moondrawn

Deadpool is pansexual. His kiss in 2009 with gay superhero Rictor was the first same-sex kiss in a mainstream Marvel comic. The movie Deadpool 2 will feature a bisexual and polyamorous superhero!

I love this thread and our recommendations and Giveaway continues until March 3rd!

It’s our LGBTQIA Superhero Hunt Giveaway!

Find stories and LGBTQIA Superheroes! We will give you all the entire month that’s left. Must be superhero stories, can be graphic novels (comics). Giveaway ends March 3 at midnight. Gift certificates will be given away! Must be 18 years of age or older. Let the hunt begin!

And the winner of our Valentine’s Day Giveaway is announced at the very end of today’s blog. Don’t miss it!

LGBTQIA Superhero Lists You May Not Be Aware Of!

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, February 25:

Perfect by Felice Stevens Release Day Blitz
RELEASE BLITZ for Captive Hearts (Deviant Hearts #1) by A E Ryecart LILY RECEIVED (2 emails)
Gay Superheroes and This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Monday, February 26:

Bite Me by Beth Bolden BLOG TOUR
Blog Post- Katze Snow – Demons & Wolves Series
Release Blitz – Closets Are For Clothes – Addison Albright
RELEASE BLITZ FORSAKEN by J.R. Gray
A Lila Audiobook Review: Off the Beaten Path by Cari Z. and Jack Wesley (Narrator)
A Stella Review: Bite Me by Beth Bolden
An Alisa Review: Alpha Dragon: Bronaz by Kellan Larkin and Kaz Crowley

Tuesday, February 27:

RIPTIDE TOUR Where Death Meets the Devil by LJ Hayward
Release Blitz – Bitten By The Alpha (Regent’s Park Pack #4) by Annabelle Jacobs
NDIGO BLITZ A Matter of Justice by J.C. Long
A Free Dreamer Release Day Review: Exodus ( Heaven Corp #2) by CC Bridges
A MelanieM PreRelease Review: Apocalypse Alley (Blue Unicorn #2) by Don Allmon
An Alisa Audiobook Review: Camp H.O.W.L. by Bru Baker and Dorian Bane (Narrator)

Wednesday, February 28:

BLOG TOUR FORSAKEN by J.R. Gray
DSP Publications Promo Sean Michael
Release Blitz RJ Scott – Winter Cowboy
A MelanieM Audiobook Review: Runner by Parker Williams and Patrick Zeller (Narrator)
A Stella Review :New Heights by Quinn Anderson
An Alisa Review: Say Cheese by Michael P. Thomas

Thursday, March 1:

Release Blitz – Room For Recovery – DJ Jamison
DSP Publications Promo Chris E. Saros
BLOG TOUR Found (Hamilton’s Heroes #1) by Annabella Michaels
A Free Dreamer Review: Celestia by J.D Evergreen
An Stella Release Day Review: Touch by Remmy Duchene

Friday, March 2:

Review Tour – Jay Northcote – Pretty In Pink S
DSP GUEST POST BG Thomas
Hurri Cosmo – Ghost Wolf – Virtual Book Tour
Riptide Tour and Giveaway: Apocalypse Alley by Don Allmon
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review : Pretty In Pink by Jay Northcote
A MelanieM Review: Where Death Meets the Devil by LJ Hayward
An Alisa Release Day Review: Touch by Remmy Duchene

Saturday, March 3:

Ever After by Riley Hart & Christina Lee Release Day Blitz
Release Blitz CLOSER by F.E. Feeley Jr.

💘

Valentine’s Day Giveaway Winner is H.B.! Congratulations, H.B. Contact Stella at scatteredthoughtsandroguewords@gmail.com and she will arrange to get your gift card to you.

A Lila Audiobook Review: Ante Up by Kim Fielding and Narrator: Andrew McFerrin

Rating: 3.75 stars out of 5

Love is a high-stakes game.

A century and a half ago, Ante Novak died on a Croatian battlefield—and rose three days later as a vampire. Now he haunts Las Vegas, stealing blood and money from drunken gamblers and staying on the fringe of the powerful vampire organization known as the Shadows. His existence feels empty and meaningless until he meets beautiful Peter Gehrardi, who can influence others with his thoughts.

An attraction flares instantly, bringing a semblance of life to Ante’s dead heart. But the Shadows want Peter too, and they’re willing to kill to get him. As Ante and Peter flee, they learn more about themselves and each other, and they discover that the world is a stranger place than either of them imagined. With enemies at their heels and old mistakes coming back to exact a price, how can Ante and Peter find sanctuary?

Ante Up is a different type of paranormal story. When the majority of the characters are vampires, not all the traditional troupes are followed. I enjoyed those differences and Ante’s Croatian background. The number of details worked well for the story and added to its depth.

The author did a nice job making Ante unique. He’s not the traditionally rich, alpha vampire with a legion at his feet. He’s a down the mill hustler whose only worry is where to be at sunrise. He’s comfortable living in the fridges and doesn’t believe in causing harm to survive. Most of the men he feeds from are as lonely as he is, and their times together are beneficial for both of them.

Enters Peter to change Ante’s organized life. With his quick charm and good looks, he brings out Ante’s curiosity. He’s not sure about his heritage or his powers but he tries to keep both under wraps. Just like Ante, he’s not the traditional hero, but it works for them.

The more time they spend together, the more they discover about themselves and other paranormals. The descriptions, settings, and new characters are interesting and only added to the plot.

The meeting and battle at the end felt a bit rushed. After so many details, it was unexpected to have such a simple resolution. Overall, it’s a good story if you are looking for more than sparkling vampires.

The narration by Andrew McFerrin worked well with the story. The characters came to life and he showed Ante’s slight accent.

The Cover by Aaron Anderson follows the Dreamspun Beyond style and has a depiction of Ante.

Sales Links: Dreamspinner | Amazon | Audible

Audiobook Details:

Narrator: Andrew McFerrin

Length: 5 hours 52 minutes

Published: January 12, 2018 (Audio Edition) by Dreamspinner Press
ASIN: B078YC6477
Edition Language: English

An Alisa Audiobook Review: The Soldati Prince (Soldati Hearts #1) by Charlie Cochet and Narrator: Manuel Pombo

Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5

One moment Riley Murrough is living a normal life working in a coffee shop, and the next he’s running for his life from demons, learns he bears the mark of a shape-shifter king from a magical realm, and—worst of all—he’s destined to become the mated prince to the arrogant tiger shifter he would rather strangle.

Khalon, the shifter king, is equally distraught at the idea of being bound to a human prince, and along with his Soldati warriors, he sets out to return Riley to his own world where he belongs. On their journey they might discover why the priestess brought them together—if they can escape the demons and make it to her alive.

I didn’t really know what to expect going into this story but I did enjoy it. Khalon is appalled at the idea of mating with a human and he does not disguise this while Riley is just trying to figure out what is going on.

Khalon pretty much just acts like a spoiled brat to Riley and their situation. Even when Riley sees the sweet side of him it’s hard to really start to like him. I could feel Riley’s confusion about the situation and what would you expect but those around him seemed to think he needed to adapt faster. The characters started to grow on me some more as the story went on.

Manuel Pombo did a nice job narrating this story. I could get a feel of the characters’ emotions while listening. The different voices he used for the characters helped me keep up with what was going on.

I love the cover art by LC Chase is nice and seems to work well for this story.

Sales Links: Audible | Amazon | iTunes

Audiobook Details:

Audiobook, 3 hrs 27 min
Published: January 10, 2018 by Dreamspinner Press
Edition Language: English

Series: Soldati Hearts #1

A Lila Audiobook Review: How To Bang a Billionaire by Alexis Hall and Joel Leslie (Narrator)

Rating: 4 stars out of 5

Rules are made to be broken . . .

If England had yearbooks, I’d probably be “Arden St. Ives: Man Least Likely to Set the World on Fire.” So far, I haven’t. I’ve no idea what I’m doing at Oxford, no idea what I’m going to do next and, until a week ago, I had no idea who Caspian Hart was. Turns out, he’s brilliant, beautiful . . . oh yeah, and a billionaire.

It’s impossible not to be captivated by someone like that. But Caspian Hart makes his own rules. And he has a lot of them. About when I can be with him. What I can do with him. And when he’ll be through with me.

I’m good at doing what I’m told in the bedroom. The rest of the time, not so much. And now that Caspian’s shown me glimpses of the man behind the billionaire I know it’s him I want. Not his wealth, not his status. Him. Except that might be the one thing he doesn’t have the power to give me.

How to Bang a Billionaire is a more refined, gay version of Fifty Shades of Grey. I did laugh a lot more than with Anna and Christian, but the essence of both stories is the same. A dark, brooding hero that can’t love and keeps everyone at arm’s length, and a young man in distress, helpless without his cool and collected love interest.

There are differences, for example, this story has less supporting characters and young Arden is not a vulnerable, oblivious virgin. There’s no goddess or internal voices even when the reader spent a considerable part of the story in Arden’s head. But overall, the similarities are many.

The characters and the settings are interesting and the author’s prose beautifully written. Humor plays an important part as well as in-depth conversations between the main characters. I enjoyed the descriptions and the troubles Arden got into. I like how Caspian felt comfortable to be himself when he was with Arden.

One of the only things I didn’t like about the story related to the conditions Caspian had for Arden. He accepted him and his rules, only to complain about it a short time after. Caspian had all reasons to move forward without him; which he didn’t do. The other was the lack of background about Caspian. It was hard to get to know him thru Arden’s eyes.

Just like every series, this is not a complete story. It has the start of something good and a solid happy for now. It opens the door for a future that if it follows the Fifty’s saga it won’t have a lovely end until a third book is available.

The narration by Joel Leslie makes everything better. It’s easy to follow the characters’ perspective and how they feel about each other. He makes the reader feel what the characters are feeling making the story more personal and enjoyable.

After reading the story, I’m still unsure of who is on the cover by Brian Lemus. I believe is Caspian but I can be wrong.

Sales Links: Hachette | Amazon | Audible

Audiobook Details:

Narrator: Joel Leslie

Length: 11 hours

Published: January 16, 2018 (Audio Edition) by Hachette Audio
ASIN: B078WZLVX4
Edition Language: English

Series: Arden St. Ives
Book #1: How to Bang a Billionaire

Black Panther, Superheroes, and LGBT Fiction. This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Black Panther, Superheroes, and LGBT Fiction

So we are taking a little sideslip this week away from the topics I had meant to talk about (like that’s ever happened before lol) because of a opening of a spectacular movie last night. That’s right Black Panther opened Thursday night to accolades everywhere! Kids, parents, teens, tweens, millennials, any age, and yes, any race, said this movie has it all. Yes it does. But to many, it’s much, much more.

Importantly, released during Black History Month, for the first time ever, a certified big budget blockbuster with a black superhero (not sidekick mind you, but the main hero), an almost all black cast, and a black director is rushing to break box office attendance records and looking to become a movement as the hashtag “WhatBlackPantherMeansToMe” has been trending.

Yes, it’s all about representation.

That’s something we have always known. It’s why Wonder Woman (directed by a woman) is so important to women and little girls everywhere. And why LGBTQIA fiction and yes comics are equally important to the LGBTQIA community.

Right now, Black Panther comics are flying off the shelves. Black Panther first appeared in Marvel Comic’s Fantastic 4 in 1966 and got his own comic in 1977. Here’s an article on the history of the Black Panther comics and serial…check it out.

The Black Panther comic of today is drawn a little differently. But all this got me thinking. What about gay superheros? I know Roan of Infected first popped into my mind (Andrea Speed) but how about others? What about graphic novels? What LGBTQIA Superheroes can we name? How about stories? Yes, that your cue….let’s find and name stories and LGBT superheroes! Include graphic novels if you can find them! We’re on a hunt and a mission!

It’s our LGBTQIA Superhero Hunt Giveaway! Find stories and LGBTQIA Superheroes! We will give you all the entire month that’s left. Must be superhero stories, can be graphic novels (comics). Giveaway ends March 3 at midnight. Gift certificates will be given away! Must be 18 years of age or older. Let the hunt begin!

Now onto this week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words. And go see Black Panther. It’s amazing! Plus you know people will be shipping those hot actors like crazy! lol

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, February 18:

Black Panther, Superheroes, and LGBT Fiction
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Monday, February 19:

DSP Dreamspun Desires Promo Liv Olteano on Lover, Lover
Hard To Let Go by Jaclyn Quinn Release Day Blitz
Release Blitz – Loving Kit by L.M. Brown
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review : Seth & Casey by RJ Scott
A Lila Audiobook Review: How To Bang a Billionaire by Alexis Hall and Joel Leslie (Narrator)
An Alisa Audiobook Review: The Soldati Prince (Soldati Hearts #1) by Charlie Cochet and Narrator: Manuel Pombo

Tuesday, February 20:

Blitz Sign-Up: Love on a Battlefield by Posy Roberts
DSP Promo BA Tortuga
Riptide Tour and Giveaway: Losing It by Christine d’Abo
A MelanieM Release Day Review: Lover, Lover ( Dreamcatchers story) by Liv Olteano
An Alisa Release Day Review: Teaching Ben by Shae Connor

Wednesday, February 21:

Review Tour for Poke Check (Harrisburg Railers #4) by RJ Scott & VL Locey
Harmony Ink Promo Annabelle Jay on Luminosity
Release Blitz: Break Down (Dublin Rugby #4) by Rebecca Norinne
An Alisa Review: Manic Pixie Dream Boy (Underdogs #1) by KA Merikan
A MelanieM Review:Poke Check (Harrisburg Railers #4) by R.J. Scott and V.L. Locey

Thursday, February 22:

Release Blitz Jay Northcote – Pretty In Pink
Second Wind by Aimee Nicole Walker Blog Tour and Giveaway
DSP Promo KA Mitchell on Bad Boyfriend
A MelanieM Review: Second Wind by Aimee Nicole Walker
An Alisa Review: Jingle Bears (The Bears of Falcon’s Ridge, #2.5) by Susan E. Scott
A Lila Audiobook Review: Ante Up by Kim Fielding and Narrator: Andrew McFerrin

Friday, February 23:

BOOK BLAST for As You Wish by Isobel Starling
Heart2Heart Anthology Blog Tour
Found by Annabella Michaels Tour
A Stella Review: New Heights by Quinn Anderson
An Alisa Review: Just Here For The Pain (Underdogs #2) by KA Merikan

Saturday, February 24:

RELEASE BLITZ for Dead Camp #5 (The End Game part 2) by Sean Kerr
Book Blitz – Penny Brandon’s Blind Passion
A MelanieM Review: Point of Contact by Melanie Hansen

Audiobook Blitz and Giveaway for September (Pride and Joy #1) by Robert Winter and Narrator: Kale Williams

Title: September

Format: Audiobook

Series: Pride and Joy, book 1

Narrator: Kale Williams

Author: Robert Winter

Publisher: Robert Winter Books

Release Date: February 7th, 2018

Heat Level: 4 – Lots of Sex

Pairing: Male/Male

Length: 10 Hours 01 Minutes

Genre: Romance, May December, hurt comfort, second chance

Add to Goodreads

Synopsis

A May-December contemporary gay romance for lovers of second chances

David James is smart, successful, handsome… and alone. After the death of his lover, Kyle, from cancer, he buried himself in his law practice and the gym. At forty-eight, he is haunted by his memories and walled off from the world. When David injures himself working out, he’s assigned to Brandon Smith for physical therapy. The vibrant young therapist is attracted to David and realizes he needs a hand to get back into dating. What begins as a practice coffee date escalates to friendship, passion, and maybe something more, as they navigate a new relationship in Washington, DC, and the gay mecca of Provincetown.

But David remains trapped behind the barrier of fear and guilt. Will he remain loyal to Kyle’s memory if he moves on? Can he and Brandon manage a twenty-two-year age gap? Brandon thinks he understands David’s concerns, and for him, the answer to those questions is yes. He wants to be with David, and he believes he can overcome David’s barriers. But Brandon fails to account for the world’s reaction to a handsome young man attached to an older, wealthy lover.

David’s memories, Brandon’s pride, and an unexpected tragedy might cost them something very special…

Listen to an Audio Excerpt

Purchase

Robert Winter Books | Audible | Amazon | Itunes

Meet the Author

Robert Winter lives and writes in Provincetown. He is a recovering lawyer who prefers writing about hot men in love much more than drafting a legal brief. He left behind the (allegedly) glamorous world of an international law firm to sit in his home office and dream up ways to torment his characters until they realize they are perfect for each other. When he isn’t writing, Robert likes to cook Indian food and explore new restaurants.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | eMail | Instagram

Meet the Narrator

Kale Williams lends his voice to bring to life romance books of all stripes. Known for his distinct characterizations and natural intimate storytelling, he is as comfortable with the cowboys on the prairie as he is with the cops of the big city, from the slow burn to the hot steam to the HEA. Love is love is love.

Giveaway

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An Alisa Audiobook Review: Model Bodyguard (Haven Investigations #2) by Lissa Kasey and Brian Hutchison (Narrator)

Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5

Things are going well for androgynous model Ollie Petroskovic, ex-Marine Kade Alme, and their business, Haven Investigations, until rock star Jacob Elias shows up in need of their services… and trouble follows.

Jacob is a playboy with a serious penchant for kink, slaves, and sex toys. He’s also Ollie’s ex—and all that implies. With the media exploiting his personal life, a stalker sending blood-soaked “gifts,” a bumbling security team, and a family he can’t trust as far as he could throw them, Jacob is in desperate need of a bodyguard for his latest tour, and Kade can’t refuse.

While Kade deals with new doubts about his partnership with Ollie and struggles with reminders of his war injuries, Jacob’s stalker escalates from blackmail and threats to murder. As Kade and Ollie work to keep Jacob safe and find the culprit behind the attack, a web of family secrets, lies, and abuse slowly emerges, leading up to a final confrontation that they might not walk away from—and that will have lasting repercussions for Kade and his relationship with Ollie.

I have to start this off with saying I really really dislike cliffhangers and this book ended with a big one. Ollie and Kade are still working on figuring out their relationship and throwing Jacob into the mix doesn’t help either of their insecurities. I’m hoping that in the next book they will get that much more comfortable and confident in their connection.

This story was told from Kade’s point of view, which gave a bit of a different perspective from Ollie’s in the last book. Kade is pretty good at reading people so it makes it easy to understand Ollie right along with him. However, as with the last book both of them have low self-esteem and spend so much time worrying. I was wrung out after listening to the first two thirds of the book and had to wait a little bit to finish it. The big mystery from the first book of Nathan’s death was mostly put on the back burner for this story and I’m sure it will get summed up at some point but I didn’t think that pretty much just ignoring it in this book was the right thing to do either.

Brian Hutchison did a good job narrating this story. I was able to keep track of the characters and actions in the book through his use of different voices and emotions. I think he portrayed Jacob’s ego and insecurities pretty well.

Cover art by Garrett Leigh is nice and follows the pattern of the series.

Sales Links: Audible | Amazon | iTunes

Audiobook Details:

Audiobook, 9hrs 47min
Published January 4, 2018 (ebook first published October 7, 2016) by Dreamspinner Press
Edition Language: English

Series: Haven Investigations #2

Valentine’s Day Stories and This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Valentine’s Day Stories

Yes, it’s Valentine’s Week! The air is full of love and romance, balloons, flowers, cards, and whatever else a loved one may desire. Stuffed animals? Songs? Mixed tapes….yes that dates me! lol What things have you received? From friends and loved ones…sometimes even a those little candy hearts with messages were enough to make your day. I can remember some stories that actually captured those elements. Apparently you all did too with your recommendations.

Here’s some stories from me you may have missed for your Valentine’s Day reading:

Fortune’s Slings and Cupid’s Arrows By Ari McKay
Letters From Cupid by Ari McKay
Conversation Hearts by Avon Gale
Valentine Rainbow Anthology
A Secret Valentine by BG Thomas
A Cupid’s Wager by Deanna Wadsworth
Campfire Confessions by Bru Baker

And coming out this week on Valentine’s Day (and to be reviewed as well)

Hearts and Flour by Tara Lain
Bromantically Yours by K.C. Wells

Here are some of the Valentine’s Day Stories our readers are listing and recommending:

From Ami:

I loved this F/F novella by Aidan Wayne “Making Love” because it’s about Cupid and also featuring an asexual character. It’s cute, it’s adorable, and for me FITS the Valentine’s day vibe.

From Jen:

I just looked through my Read list and I haven’t read too many Valentine’s Day stories. But one that I really loved was

Lazy Valentines (Lazy Days #2) by K-lee Klein.

From H.B.:

Looking forward to the valentine’s book list and recs from everyone. I don’t think I have too many on my own list over the years (and I started tagging them a on goodreads a year and half after I started reading m/m fiction). My recs are:
6 Days to Valentine by L.E. Franks
The Colors of Romance (A Valentine Rainbow) by Ashavan Doyon
Fruity on the Inside by G.R. Richards
On Valentine’s Day by Raine Delight
From Your Secret Admirer by Debora Day
Naughty Cupid/A Cupid’s Wager by Deanna Wadsworth (A Cupid’s Wager was part of the A Valentine Rainbow Set published by Dreamspinner)

However, there’s still time to get your stories into us to be added to our Valentine’s Day list. See our giveaway below! And Happy Valentine’s Day in advance!

Valentine’s Day Giveaway

Then it’s soon to be Valentine’s Day and I know there are book written with this in mind. Can I think of them now? No! But maybe you can. Who can remember Valentine’s Day stories? Or maybe ones with Cupid in them? I know there are a few of those out there. Of course we will have a giveaway attached to that. It’s our Cupid or Valentine’s Day Giveaway! Give us your favorite Valentine’s Day stories! The one overflowing with romantic, love, roses, or whatever! Giveaway is a gift card from Dreamspinner Press for $10. Contest ends on February 17th at midnight.

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, February 11:

Valentine’s Day Stories
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Monday, February 12:

Bite Me by Beth Bolden Release Day Blitz
BLOG TOUR Rebel by K.M. Neuhold & Nora Phoenix
Cover Reveal: Forsaken by J.R. Gray
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: The Station by Keira Andrews
A Stella Prerelease Review: Love on a Battlefield by Posy Roberts
An Alisa Audiobook Review: Model Bodyguard (Haven Investigations #2) by Lissa Kasey and Brian Hutchison (Narrator)

Tuesday, February 13:

J. Scott Coatsworth on Lander
Release Blitz: Three’s the Charm by P.A. Friday
Review Tour and Giveaway : In Wild Lemon Groves by Selina Kray
SERIES TOUR for Shatterproof Bond by Isobel Starling
A Jeri Review: Winning Edge by Keira Andrews
A MelanieM Review:In Wild Lemon Groves by Selina Kray
An Ali Release Day Review: Infected: Throwaways (Mean Streets #2 Infected Universe) by Andrea Speed

Wednesday, February 14 -Valentine’s Day 💘:

DSP Promo Amy Lane
Lander (Oberon Cycle Book 2) J, Scott Coatsworth Tour
Riptide Publishing Tour and Giveaway: Cam Boy by Quinn Anderson
Second Wind by Aimee Nicole Walker Release Day Blitz
A Lila Release Day Review: Hearts and Flour by Tara Lain
A Lila Release Day Review: Bromantically Yours by K.C. Wells
A MelanieM Review:Lander (Oberon Cycle Book 2) by J.Scott Coatsworth

Thursday, February 15:

Riptide Publishing Tour and Giveaway for The Artist’s Touch by EJ Russell
In the Promo Spotlight: Andrew Grey
Release Blitz for DJ Jamison’s Hearts & Health 1-3 Box Set
A MelanieM Review: Oh Yeah, An Elf by L.L. Brooks
An Alisa Review :GHOST WOLF by Hurri Cosmo
A Lila Audiobook Review: Finding Mr. Wrong by Charlie Cochet and Andrew McFerrin (Narrator)

Friday, February 16:

DSP Publications Promo Andrea Speed on Infected: Throwaways
Release Blitz Tour – RJ Scott & VL Locey’s Poke Check
Review Tour – Sam Burns’ Wolf & The Holly
A Free Dreamer Review:Wolf & The Holly (The Rowan Harbor Cycle #2) by Sam Burns
A Free Dreamer Review: Blackbird in the Reeds (The Rowan Harbor Cycle #1) by Sam Burns
An Alisa Review: Alpha Dragon: Nyve by Kellan Larkin and Kaz Crowley

Saturday, February 17:

Blog tour for Resist and Triumph charity anthology Joe Bone
BLITZ September (Audio) by Robert Winter

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Gay Superheroes

Some of the ones I love?

Here are some of the wonderful Gay Superhero Recommendations from all of you:

Moondrawn

LGBTQIA Superhero Lists You May Not Be Aware Of!

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, February 25:

Monday, February 26:

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Thursday, March 1:

Friday, March 2:

Saturday, March 3:

💘

Valentine’s Day Giveaway Winner is H.B.! Congratulations, H.B. Contact Stella at scatteredthoughtsandroguewords@gmail.com and she will arrange to get your gift card to you.

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Black Panther, Superheroes, and LGBT Fiction

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, February 18:

Monday, February 19:

Tuesday, February 20:

Wednesday, February 21:

Thursday, February 22:

Friday, February 23:

Saturday, February 24:

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Synopsis

Listen to an Audio Excerpt

Purchase

Robert Winter Books | Audible | Amazon | Itunes

Meet the Author

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | eMail | Instagram

Meet the Narrator

Giveaway

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Valentine’s Day Stories

Here are some of the Valentine’s Day Stories our readers are listing and recommending:

Valentine’s Day Giveaway

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, February 11:

Monday, February 12:

Tuesday, February 13:

Wednesday, February 14 -Valentine’s Day 💘:

Thursday, February 15:

Friday, February 16:

Saturday, February 17:

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