The evolution of the fascinating relationship between Death and Chan continues in The Grim Adventures of Death and Chan: Vol. 2 (a Dead Serious Companion novella) by Vawn Cassidy.
A consecutive series of five short stories that has Death and Chan reflecting on their lives or state of being, their relationship, and if they have a future together. Chan is having trouble with being the “normal human” when all he sees is the extraordinary and otherworldly nature of Death. Death, on the other hand, in a raw and painful reality, is now having a profound first hand experience with emotions. Including anxiety and fear of being unable to control them.
Each story carries the couple through event after event, and a series of highly stressful and significant scenes (each one greatly crafted by Cassidy). In every one, in some manner, Death and Chan have moments where each undergoes a moment of intense emotional introspection about themselves and their relationship.
Cassidy’s detailed plotting, gorgeously executed characterizations, and emotionally compelling scenes make each tale a gem and necessary read in this remarkable journey this couple is taking.
There is going to be a Vol 3 as well as seeing them in the next adventures of the group in their new series.
I’m so excited and can’t wait. I’m highly recommending everything listed below. Read them in order.
Crawshanks Guide to the Recently Departed:
✓ Dead Serious Case #1 Miz Dusty Le Frey #1
✓ Dead Serious Case #2 Mrs Delores Abernathy #2
✓ Dead Serious Case #3 Mr Bruce Reyes #3
✓ Dead Serious Case #4 Professor Prometheus Plume #4
✓ The Grim Adventures of Death and Chan: Vol. 1 (a Dead Serious Companion novella) – Side story
✓ Dead Serious Case #5 Madame Vivienne
✓ The Grim Adventures of Death and Chan: Vol. 2 (a Dead Serious Companion novella) – Side story
Crawshanks Guide to Mischievous Spectres & Spirits
◦ The Haunted Hotel (Crawshanks Guide to Mischievous Spectres & Spirits Book 1) – Aug 24,2024
Set in the Dead Serious Universe, The Grim Adventures of Death & Chan Vol 2. is a compendium of bonus shorts told in chronological order of the hilarious but sweet evolution of the relationship between an ex-drag queen and the supernatural entity known as Death.
It’s been a while since I’d read any novels in this series but this author is one I automatically read so it seems like a good time to get back into the universe.
It’s recommended that you be familiar with the characters, their unique histories and backgrounds as well as the series as a foundation for the knowledge required here.
This is a complicated story that involves a layered plot, hidden secrets, beautifully developed mysteries, and an agonizing twist that puts all the cast in all types of imminent danger.
This along with the storyline of a escalating anxiety from main characters, Vic and Jacob, about Jacob’s nephew home alone during a violent storm while the couple who were his caregivers for the weekend find themselves in a increasingly dangerous situation. Without access to WiFi and phones.
Price does a realistic portrayal of the fears and distress both men are experiencing, for the boy and themselves because of the newness of the situation. Then there’s the horrific reality they currently face, of the dark basement and its own extreme dangers.
The scenes in the basement are some of the best in the book. Descriptively, the author is able to bring us down into that scary environment, continuing to elevate the horror and obstacles every one faces and then finally turning it into one poignant but terrifying scenario.
So well written.
And if that ending leaves you with a few chills, it should. That’s the playground for Psycop. Check out the full series to date below.
Although Victor Bayne is a valued asset of the FPMP, he still vividly recalls his PsyCop days: the eye rolls, the nasty looks, and the occasional utterance of the words “Spook Squad” whenever he showed up on a scene. So he really should empathize with Howard Jibben, the weekend lab manager known as Heebie Jeebie.
But does the guy really need to be so darn annoying?
Thanks to the researcher’s OCD tendencies, when a mysterious shipment arrives, what should be a routine ghost-check turns into an excruciating ordeal…made even worse by a freak incident that leaves them stranded in the FPMP’s basement.
Jacob may be the ranking agent on site, but even he can’t control the weather. Yet given the pressure he puts on himself to master his newfound ability, it’s as if he thinks the burden to free everyone is his alone.
Vic has never put much stock in luck, but the sheer number of disasters raining down on them can’t possibly be pure chance—and things are only getting worse. Is it a curse? Telekinesis? Sabotage?
Or is there something more sinister lurking in the shadows?
PsyCop is an ongoing series filled with supernatural action and delightfully awkward humor–with a steady undercurrent of gay romance. It’s best read in order, so if you’re new to the series, start with PsyCop #1, Among the Living…and prepare for a hauntingly good read.
• Publisher: JCP Books (May 20, 2024)
• Publication date: May 20, 2024
• Language: English
• Print length: 302 pages
PSYCOP SERIES #1: Among the Living What good is being a psychic detective if your murder victims aren’t talking?
#2: Criss Cross Mysterious messages from Lisa lead Vic on a wild ride.
#3: Body & Soul Three missing people. No bodies. No ghosts. At least the case gets Vic out of an awkward family dinner.
#4: Secrets Is someone watching Vic’s every move, or is he imagining things? Just because you’re paranoid doesn’t mean they’re not out to get you.
#5: Camp Hell Vic delves into his repressed memories of Camp Hell and dredges up more than he bargained for.
#6: GhosTV Lisa’s gone missing, and Vic and Jacob head to PsyTrain for some answers.
#7: Spook Squad Victor has been avoiding the exorcism he owes the FPMP. Now it’s time to pay up.
#8: Skin After Skin A sweeping look at the PsyCop series from Crash’s empathic point of view
#9: Agent Bayne Victor might be through with the Chicago PD, but is he ready for the FPMP?
#10 Murder House An undercover gig turns up more than Vic ever imagined.
#11 Bitter Pill There’s a deadly new drug in town called Kick…and psychs find it irresistible
#12 Other Half A wedding is stressful enough without a psychic investigation to power through
Another new author and a new paranormal law enforcement vampire romance. A excellent find in both writer and story.
Several things that Drewek created here for her universe that I absolutely found fascinating and wanted more exploration into was the vampire society and creation lore. That its territories are women ruled/dominated definitely needs further development within the story than the fabulous juicy bits offered up by scenes the author gave us here. I was definitely invested.
That feeds in so well into the fact that Chicago PD Det Eric Collins, 250 year old vampire is a solitary male, working his department’s night shift. His heavy caseloads as well as his memories and routines are what mark his days. The author lets Eric’s past stories and losses be revealed only once his solo existence starts to change. However, Eric the detective is a fully formed character as is his place within his department.
Drewek also does a great job in creating the other characters, including Chase Turner, a complicated person with a multitude of issues. He’s a cop who’s the son of cops. His mother is deceased, and his father a bullying alcoholic officer, now retired who’s either revered or hated because of his former position as the head of IA. Chase is also suffering from PTSD, from his tour of duty in the Army. Plus he’s got ex issues too.All that and a tragic case brings him into the same mess as Eric when both are on the scene at the same time.
Drewek has written so many terrific storylines, all ongoing that involve vampires, other investigators, and fully formed characters that interact with each other to keep the reader invested in their relationship and the storylines that emerge.
One element of relationships that I find problematic in a story is where one person will , for whatever reason, takes actions or makes important decisions that affect their relationship without discussing it with their partner, purposely. Effectively it relegates their partner or mate to a lesser or unequal status because they are making decisions for them without their knowledge or permission. Doesn’t matter the trope. This is a familiar element in some couples.
And this aspect of Eric and Chase’s dynamic was an issue that I struggled with throughout the book while enjoying the characters, their interactions and terrific histories created for them by the author. It was minutely addressed towards the end of the novel and I appreciated that but I wish it had been dealt with differently.
As a standalone story, Drewek has developed such a rich environment and cast that I keep thinking that it would make a great series. Aubrey, Eric’s werewolf friend from his past who lives in New Orleans, definitely deserves a sequel.
It’s a terrific universe that needs further exploration and I hope this author will return to it sometime soon.
In the meantime, I’ll be looking into Drewek’s other works and series. If they are as interesting and well written as this, I can’t wait to read them.
Vampires don’t get a happily ever after. Eric Collins learned that the hard way, which is why he swore off the whole idea and prefers to throw himself into his job as a Chicago PD detective. His plan for a peaceful, solitary existence, however, is disrupted the night he saves Chase Turner—a human and a fellow cop—from being brutally murdered.
With vindictive vampires after them and Chase’s meddling ex around every corner, it’s time for Eric to leave Chicago. But first he has to make a choice—convince Chase to give up everything and come with him, or say goodbye to the love of his life?
PER SANGUINEM is a slow-burn MM paranormal romance with a lot of suspense, police procedures, and sexual tension between two cops on the DL. It features an overprotective vampire, two insanely loyal partners, and a forbidden love story set against a complicated backdrop of murder and vampire politics. It is intended for a mature audience and reader discretion is advised. A full list of triggers can be found in the front matter of the book and at my website under Tropes & Triggers.
The Elf Beside Himself finishes PI Valentine Hart’s storyline group within the Beyond the Veil series.
This paranormal series has been following a format that sees each wildly different couple, each of whom has been effected by the Arcanavirus in various ways, through the all the travails of their intense relationships. The author creates such a wonderful, culturally diverse group of backgrounds for each character. And then, using mysteries, police cases, and ghosts of the dead, weaves in the expanding series themes of magic, bigotry, speciesism, deep persecution that occurs when something happens to scare people into believing propaganda or giving into their own worst fears. In this case a disease, the Arcanavirus which changes people into paranormal beings, if they live through it.
Avery’s plots has Human Only Rights groups out in the streets, in gangs, working against any nonhuman creature, as well focusing on the neglect that indigenous peoples criminal cases often face from various law enforcement agencies that allow the criminal to go unpunished. Its layers upon layers in believable, heartbreaking detail.
And each book sees this element only increasing in depth and alarm as the groups grow stronger. It all seems so familiar.
In this story, Val Hart, an elf made due to the Arcanavirus and his dog shifter lover, Taavi Camal, are headed back to Val’s hometown of Shawano, Wisconsin. Its land of the cheese, frigid winter weather, small town Community values and memories of when Val was normal and forgettable. But his childhood friend’s father has died, a man Val also considered family. And his best friend has asked him for his help.
Avery builds such gripping narratives because the author starts with creating compelling complex characters, ones who have histories the reader can in some way relate to, and then place them into extraordinary circumstances. Circumstances that require imagination, intelligence and are often difficult for the reader and characters to comprehend or undergo.
Here in The Elf Beside Himself there is a boatload of emotional elements and personal/professional/life issues to unpack and explore. It starts with deep grief for Gregory Crane, father of his best friend Elliot. Both men badger shifters, as well as members of the Ho Chunk and Mamaceqtaw tribes. The heartfelt grieving continues as investigative factors points to persecution and increased violence towards shifters and indigenous peoples.
Hart is also dealing with bringing Taavi home to meet everyone for the first time under extreme pressure and intense conditions. When they’re just 2.5 months into their relationship and unprepared for the situation, winter weather, and family scrutiny.
Hart, who has been a favorite of mine since he appeared on the page, just shows all the vulnerability, the growth, and depth of his character in the various situations that arise here. Especially in the complex relationships between himself, Taavi, and Elliot.
The writing is exceptional, the characters are so memorable, and well plotted storylines will feed into the next group flawlessly as Seth and Elliot are set up to start a new trilogy while enlarging on the anti-magic, human first movement that’s growing.
I’m so invested. If you aren’t already familiar, go back to the first book and begin your journey there. It’s a fabulous read and a series you will love.
Highly recommended!
Beyond the Veil Series which is broken into couples stories, see below (books need to be read in order they are written for relationships and events development):
Nothing can prepare you for the phone call from your best friend telling you his dad was murdered. Not even if you’re a former homicide cop.
But here I am, getting on a plane to fly halfway across the country to hold his hand and hope to hell that I’m not walking into a complete disaster.
Who am I kidding?
The police think Gregory Crane killed himself, or at least that’s what they’re telling us, but Elliot is sure they’re wrong. And the dead man can’t tell us what happened, either, so I’m going to have to use good old-fashioned detective work to figure this one out. Except I’m not a cop anymore and all my contacts are half a country away.
Add to that the fact that the state I’m in is in the middle of a huge anti-magic movement, and everywhere I turn I have people spitting in my face and calling me a freak.
My mother is going ballistic, my father is threatening to sue the police department, and I’m trying to juggle a brand-new relationship and my falling-apart oldest friend from childhood.
Yeah, you could say I’m beside myself.
Now if only I can hold it together long enough to put together the pieces, maybe, just maybe I can manage to get through this without losing my best friend, my boyfriend, or my life. Whether or not I lose my mind is pretty low on the list of priorities—I’m willing to give that up if only I can keep the rest.
I picked up this story because the characters of Jay and Alexei appeared in Wrecking Havoc, the first book in a sequel series about the Koslov brothers (one of which is Alexei). Alexei had found his mate and his part in that story and his family dynamics had me curious as to what happened beforehand.
I have to admit I didn’t enjoy this nearly as much as I did Wrecking Havoc. I find those themes and characters just more interesting in a number of ways. Also, I jumped into the middle of the series here so I missed a lot of the other characters stories and world building. That’s on me.
However, it was the character of Johann/Jay that I had the hardest time connecting to as well as what felt like an under developed romance.
Jay, a tiny vampire who , while 200 years in age, led a life after turning that was basically that of a well trained, beautifully clothed pet of a much older vampire. She treated him well when he did as told, she left him alone and isolated when he didn’t. Circumstances made it necessary for him to escape with some other, less well treated, vampires from the den. Those are the previous novels.
The book or books pick up after their escape from this den to the settlement in Hyde Park where he meets Alexei Koslov, middle son of the American Russian mob family,who is also on the run.
That’s the basics.
Jay is more a 2 dimensional character with potential here. He’s cute, flirty, naive and shy. He’s also treated like a child, who happens to be over 200 years old, clearly traumatized but it’s never stated. There’s potential for development in his history. Definitely in the growth around how Jay is as an actual vampire, which is never much explored outside of the sexual aspects. And that’s why his relationship with Alexei comes up lacking. He’s childlike but without much depth.
Alexei is a man on the run, who immediately becomes obsessed with Jay. Obsession or mate bond? It’s supposed to be mate bond, it’s later stated as such. But again it’s not explained or understood by either of them. The rest of the family just gives each other “looks “ to imply they know. Alexei always feels like the stronger personality even though he’s a human. He’s got a “presence “ missing from his vampire mate.
And that brings me to my last issues.
It revolves around two elements, one character who arrives later in the novel as an introduction to his story (the next book) and non consensual acts. These are important scenes and moments but the author and characters give them an almost flippant treatment.
The ramifications of this new character’s actions are emotionally and physically traumatic and life changing. But how does the author have the characters handle this? With nothing more than an apology, a perceived stamp of a foot. Yes, that’s the aftermath, still it’s basically, a tut tut. Over something hugely significant and morally wrong.
It was enough to disconnect me from the book, characters, and the series.
So while it was fun to see some of the many conversations and a few of the scenes mentioned, by way of conversation, play out here. I enjoyed this the most. Turns out I’m sticking with the second series. Different characters, themes, and honestly, adore those demons!
Vampire’s Mate:
◦ Roman #1
◦ Soran #2
◦ Lucian #3
✓ Johann #4 (Jay and Alexei Koslov from here, Demon Bound 🔷)
Alexei is lost. On the run from his criminal family, hiding out in Hyde Park, he has no idea what the point or purpose of his life is anymore. Until he’s served coffee by a strange young man, one whom Alexei can’t get out of his head. And when Alexei realizes his favorite barista isn’t quite human after all, his obsession only deepens. Can he use this new knowledge to get even closer to the sweet, strange vampire of his dreams?
Jay is lonely. He has his friends (so nice!) and his job at the coffee shop (so fun!) but he knows he doesn’t really belong in Hyde Park, not for keeps. And yet, he can’t help wanting to pretend, especially with his new favorite regular, a handsome human who smells divine and watches Jay like he really matters. Alexei might just be the nicest thing to happen to Jay since he can remember, even more so when the human generously offers himself up for dinner.
But Jay’s past is complicated, and certain promises have been made. Can he and Alexei weather the storm that tracks him down, or will Jay’s new life be taken away from him before it can really begin?
Johann is a heated, fated-mates MM paranormal romance with an HEA and no cliffhanger. It contains a sweet, cinnamon roll vampire and the stoic, obsessed human who will do anything to stay by his side. It also contains steamy scenes between two men, and the moderate violence (and mentions of blood) that one might expect from a vampire romance. While each book focuses on a different couple, the series is best enjoyed in order.
Meghan Maslow’s Charm City Chronicles series is a favorite among favorites. And I’ll be the first to admit it’s due to the setting of the series in Baltimore, a city I’m deeply fond of and live near.
Maslow has turned this old historic seaport city, known as Charm City, into a magical one teeming with paranormal diversity that the bosses, known as Rogers, have divided up into their own unique kingdoms. It’s incredible, and inhabited by characters from all number of species, including humans.
But my favorite? Naturally the ravens or raven shifters, so associated with Baltimore. Demon’s in the Details is a must read as the first book in the series.
As the Raven Flies sees, Abe Williams, friend of his Alpha Raven shifter Poe, on short term bodyguard duty to Poe’s bff and new Roger, Kennedy. But also assigned is dire wolf shifter, Michael Kashto, who has reluctantly pronounced them fated mates. Abe has a lot to say about this, mostly no.
Maslow has beautifully crafted two extremely different personalities, at least on the surface. Abe carries his wounds and scars inside and out that his family and past has inflicted. Michael’s is ongoing, but also family inflicted.
Baltimore, big, historic diverse seaport, has a magical gang war ongoing. The author weaves in all the dockside bars , it’s denizens with their insider’s knowledge that goes along with shipping to make it feel intimate and raw. There’s the snowy streets, and a fated mate’s romance that’s not immediately accepted? This is lively, relatable, poignant, funny, and fabulous.
Even right down to the teenagers caught out in a winter storm read absolutely true, so young, scared and yet so full of an invincible spirit that age seems to carry within them. They maybe be teenage Ravens and a young wolf shifter, but some things are just universal. I adored them.
This is tagged as related to the series but it fits so seamlessly into the books so far. I need more, of everyone and this incredible universe that Maslow is still constructing.
Haven’t been introduced to Charm City Chronicles yet? Now is a fantastic time to start. I linked the author below. She’s an auto buy for me. And the books so far in this series.
The covers are incredible. Have an amazing journey!
“Even though you’re just a bird, I accept you as my mate.”
I, Abraham Williams, raven shifter extraordinaire, am notimpressed. Not with the pronouncement. Not with the fated mates fairy tale. And most definitely not with sinfully sexy Michael Kashto, the arrogant dire wolf shifter in the thousand dollar suit.
I’ve got no time for guys who look down their noses at me or think I should be grateful for scraps. I’ve come a long way from an unwanted, scared kid to a man I can be proud of and others depend on.
When I took this job protecting a friend, I knew it would be dangerous. Accepted the risk. Only I didn’t expect the assault to target my heart instead of my body. And fellow bodyguard Michael Kashto takes no prisoners.
Forced proximity has never been so forced.
As the Raven Flies is a 30k forced proximity, fated mates, standalone romance set in the Charm City Chronicles world with a guaranteed happy ending. Shenanigans include: a raven just trying to do his freaking job, a dire wolf with a lot of groveling to do, a sweet ghost, a trigger-happy boss, and a slightly unhealthy love of Led Zeppelin.
I’m such a fan of the multi-author series because it’s a great way to find new writers or rediscover ones that you haven’t read in a while.
There’s been a huge variety in the series themes and authors who have decided to participate so it makes this format even more exciting.
The Subpar Heroes is a terrific theme, the not quite good enough hero, the one who has a power but it’s subpar, does strange stuff, is considered weak.
In the case of this book’s subpar hero character, Morgan Murray, he’s barely able to whip up enough of a current to charge his phone’s battery, but then he might actually start a fire.
He’s not a member of SPAM, that was his famous mother. He works in scientific research to save the world.
Then Morgan is matched by friends to go on a blind date with Jasper, who’s a henchman. And things get interesting. And scary. And maybe romantic. And they do them again and again and again. Over and over again.
The manner in which Temple builds the story, the surprise element of repeating the date, and then the slow revelation of how long it has been happening. Which one recounts the first time he knew what happened, it’s just chilling. And extremely well written.
It down to fantastic characters and a plot that both has to develop yet replicate itself.
Temple’s execution of the circular structure of the narrative, ala Groundhog Day, is just superb. When the date begins, and that’s the triggering point that starts the day again, is due to one factor. A person’s life is ended. Over and over. There’s a warning note at the very beginning of the book.
From there out, the narrative veers from the original, there’s character and relationship growth. The universe explores the present histories of these people and how they got there. Then the author takes us and them on another related journey.
It’s an incredible story, a heartfelt and at times, heartbreaking book. I really wanted more at the end. But then again, maybe just that was probably perfectly fine. A full future ahead.
This is one of the best of this series to date. I’m definitely recommending it.
Great cover.
Subpar Heroes series- 15 books:
🔷The Accidental Necromancer by Liv Rancourt
🔷Behind the 8-Ball by A. E. Wasp
🔷Transparent Is a Color by Kaje Harper❤️
🔷Impossible Things by Alexa Land
🔷My Not-So-Super Blind Date by Allison Temple ❤️❤️
🔷An Ex-Hero’s Guide to Axe Handling by Jenn Burke ❤️❤️
🔷In The Nick of Time by Elle Keaton 7/25/2024
🔷Static/Cling by Jaimie Samms 7/30/2024
🔷Spiritual Guidance Not Required by Jacy Braegan 8/1/2024
I’m Morgan Murray. You probably haven’t heard of me. With a raft of allergies and powers that won’t do more than charge a phone, I never lived up to my super family’s super expectations. It’s okay. I’m used to being overlooked.
But there’s only so much disappointment one man can take, and finding out the cute guy on my blind date is a henchman for the city’s most notorious crime boss? That’s one letdown too many. This date is over before it even starts.
Or is it?
In the meet cute that won’t end, Jasper and I are stuck in a time loop and the only way out is deadly. Good and evil may be relative terms, but if we can’t escape, we may find out that love is forever…and ever.
My Not-So-Super Blind Date is part of the Subpar Heroes multi-author MM romance series.
It’s the cover the drew me to Wrecking Havoc by Grae Bryan, the first in the new Demon Bound series, but it’s the story and characters that make me want to continue reading the entire series. I absolutely found myself invested in this universe and couple.
I love that Bryan created various types of demons here, instead of one type. It’s fascinating as well as that they are bound together by an ancient connection between them, a number of contracts that they had to complete in order to be free. Each book is a different demon.
However, there’s also another connection between the characters. A Russian mob family that’s now down to a group of brothers, each traumatized by their (now deceased) father in their own way. The middle brother, Alexei, got his romance in this author’s series, Vampire’s Mate. I listed it below as I hadn’t read it and put it immediately on my TBR list after reading this one.
The well defined characters, the quick moving storylines, the wonderful chemistry between the characters, everything had me engaged in this universe and the relationships being built.
Sascha Koslov , the youngest son of the American raised Russian crime mob family, is at the center of Wrecking Havoc. Superficially, a spoiled, coddled young man who has , mostly, been kept away from his family’s , as the story reveals, Sascha has been traumatized by his adolescent and upbringing, rather than shielded as his brothers assumed. Sascha is a endearing personality, and the manner in which he accidentally summons a demon is perhaps perfect!
Kai, the warrior demon on his last contract, is another layered character. The world he arrives into, the person who inadvertently summons him, everything surprises him. It’s a fascinating take on this aspect of the story, and these characters just work so well together.
There’s no fated mate bond but one that builds between them, one that makes sense for us the reader and them emotionally as they connect and grow stronger together.
By the end of the book, it’s amazing how much we love them as a couple, and the future we see going forward.
Ivan and Matteo’s books are coming, with Ivan’s book up next. It should be outstanding considering who he’s going to be bonded with. Can’t wait!
I’m highly recommending this. That cover is amazing and drew me right in.
Demon Bound:
✓ Wrecking Havoc #1 – Sascha and Kai
Vampire’s Mate:
◦ Roman #1
◦ Soran #2
◦ Lucian #3
✓ Johann #4 (Jay and Alexei Koslov from here, Demon Bound 🔷)
Sascha has always felt powerless, the weak baby of a cruel family. But that’s fine. He has his looks, his ample allowance, and a smattering of one-night stands to keep him busy. But when Sascha’s oldest brother offends the wrong people, Sascha finds himself in hiding with a target on his back. And when poking around in his temporary home leads to accidentally summoning the hottest demon Sascha could ever imagine, he has to ask himself: does he want to feel powerless anymore?
Kai has been waiting centuries for a summons. When he’s at long last brought to the human realm for his final contract, he expects to find another warrior hungry for battle and bloodshed. Instead, he finds himself bound to a saucy, scared mobster princeling who can’t stop looking at Kai like he’s dinner. It isn’t long before Kai decides that—for once—he wouldn’t mind staying exactly where he is, with a certain human for his mate.
But Sascha isn’t used to anyone sticking around, let alone caring for him in any real way. It’s up to Kai to convince Sascha he can give him so much more than protection. He just has to deal with those pesky enemies—and Sascha’s own meddling family—first.
WREAKING HAVOC IS A HEATED MM PARANORMAL ROMANCE WITH A HEA AND NO CLIFFHANGER. IT CONTAINS A SPOILED (OR IS IT TRAUMATIZED?) MAFIA PRINCE WITH TRUST ISSUES, THE COCKY WARRIOR DEMON WHO WANTS NOTHING MORE THAN TO PAMPER HIM FOR ETERNITY, A STIFLING FAMILY, ELUSIVE ENEMIES, AND THE FRUSTRATION OF NEVER GETTING TO FINISH A MANICURE.
Here we are at the penultimate story in the life of Adam Vex , his companions , ex porn star incubus Zee, and wealthy businessman vampire Reynard. All of them living in their struggling SOS Hotel, with their gremlin filled walls, weirdly scary but wonderful AI bartender Tom Collins, and some personal secrets about to come busting out!
But first, something is wrong with Tom Collins! He’s too nice, his cocktails too boring, he’s not himself.
In this story, sooo many things are happening. In a race to find and bring back their beloved bartender, secrets start to come out. And not in happy moments.
But this is a series on its way to its climactic conclusion and it’s building up to that point by challenging the characters to expose themselves (yes that too), emotionally and on personal terms, revealing their histories they hadn’t before.
So yes, there’s wild rescues, more than a few fight scenes. And one ginormous cliffhanger.
It’s fantastic. I need that final book! If you’re not into cliffhangers, wait until the entire series is out and binge read. Otherwise, read it in order and wait until it’s released in August. I’m highly recommending this book and series. Well thought out and fabulous characters!
SOS Hotel:
✓ For a Supernaturally Safe Stay #1
✓ Friendly Sanctuary for the Fiendishly Fabulous #2
✓ Sleep with Us #3
✓ Great Service from Top to Bottom #4
◦ No Rest for the Wicked #5 – August 16, 2024 (finale)
Something is wrong with Tom Collins. More wrong than usual.
Tom’s being nice.
I should have known trouble was right around the corner. One attempted murder later, and Reynard is forced to disarm Tom (literally).
No bartender, means no bar. Zee is grumpy and avoiding me, and the hotel’s measly profits are dwindling by the day.
Things are not going well. We need our broken, foul-mouthed Tom Collins back.
But don’t worry. Zee says saving Tom should be a walk in the park for us.
Turns out, that walk in the park is more like a road to hell. But I’ve got this…
My name is Adam Vex. I’m your average and mundane, human host. Welcome to another crazy day at the SOS Hotel.
*
Warning: SOS Hotel contains explicit language, situations, and content that some readers may find uncomfortable. For full warnings, please see the author’s website or the paperback “look inside sample”.
Located on Christopher Street in the Greenwich Village, the now historic Stonewall Inn opened in 1967 in New York City. Owned by the mafia (as was many of the gay nightclubs), it was operated as a restaurant previously but now served as a gay bar serving illegal liquor for the mob and paying protection money in monthly payoffs to local cops to keep the raids down. Down but not stopped. In those days, dressing as the opposite sex was illegal and carried jail time, not just harassment and beatings. And the Stonewall Inn was heavily frequented by drag queens, transgendered people, crossdressers., and lesbians who dressed “male” or butch. The last was important because some say it was a lesbian who threw the first punch at a cop that night in retaliation over the brutal treatment of another patron. But because there are so few images and differing accounts, the truth might never be know. Others say it was a transgendered person and others still a drag queen. Although the Inn itself could not be called a fancy establishment, it’s decor not the best, it’s dance floor and atmosphere, that despite police raids, let people feel free to be themselves, kept the place alive and packed. Of course, the liquor helped too.
But the raids were growing more frequent and City Hall had orders to shut down Stonewall Inn for good. Courtesy of history.com (see that link for enlarged narrative) is the timeline of the explosion that followed that decision:
June 24, 1969: Police arrest Stonewall employees, confiscate alcohol
June 27-28, 1969: Stonewall crowd erupts after police arrest and rough up patrons.
Early hours of June 28, 1969: Transgender women* (other accounts have this as drag queens or crossdressers) resist arrest. Bottles are thrown at police.
Close to 4 a.m. June 28, 1969: Police retreat and barricade themselves inside Stonewall.
June 28-29: Stonewall reopens, supporters gather. Police beat and tear gas crowd
June 29-July 1, 1969: Stonewall becomes gathering point for LGBT activists.
July 2, 1969: Gay activists protest newspaper coverage.
The beginning of the Gay Pride Movement has been ignited!
Today, The Stonewall Inn remains a place of LGBTQIA history and a gathering spot for all, where everyone can be themselves. Only now it’s legal, the right hard fought on this spot. A sign erected lest people forget. Not that they are likely too. There are parades, and books, and vids, and movies and more ready to remind us. Especially now at the 50 year anniversary of Stonewall.
I hope you’ll visit some of those links and enjoy some of those remarkable books. Martin Duberman’s was reviewed here and the stories of the individuals in the movement made a big impact on me.
Paul Richmond, an amazing artist some of you may recognize only through his covers for Dreamspinner Press or other of it’s houses, is doing this month. Over at his facebook page Paul Richmond Studio , every day this month, Paul has taken a different LGBT artist, past or present. and highlighted their works. He has talked about why this artist has meant so much to him, or perhaps the struggles this artist has had to go through. The journey through different eras, artistic lives and styles has been a revelation! Paul’s LGBT Artist of the Day has continued. If you have missed a artist or day, its not too late! Head over to Paul’s FB page and start your introduction to some jaw dropping artwork and artists.
I hope everyone has had a wonderful Pride Month! We have highlighted NHL Hockey for Everyone efforts with absolute delight, we have had great recommendations for stories, showcased Paul Richmond and LGBTQIA artists and finishing up with The Stonewall Inn. How has your Pride Month been?
This is where I will also wish everyone in the US and expats abroad a happy and safe Fourth of July!
Note:
Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words is looking for Reviewers! We are looking for reviewers for our blog. If you love to read or listen to LGBT stories and share your thoughts about them with others, consider reviewing with Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words. Please send all inquiries to scatteredthoughtsandroguewords@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you. We are very flexible about how many reviews each reviewer takes on. That’s entirely up to each reviewer’s own schedule.
And now onto our week ahead.
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Sunday, June 30:
New Release Blitz for Save the Date (Harrisburg Railers #9) by R.J. Scott and V.L. Locey
End of Pride Month and the History of Stonewall Inn
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Monday, July 1:
Blog Post – Victoria Milne – Purple Method
BLOG TOUR Change of Heart by KM Neuhold
Release Blitz – Amy Tasukada – Yakuza Path Box Set
A MelanieM Review: Ammo and Enchiladasby BA Tortuga
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Tea by Matthew J. Metzger
Tuesday, July 2:
BLITZ Palm Trees and Paparazzi by J.C. Long
Release Blitz – Ruby Moone – Eyeliner and Lace
Review Tour for Save the Date (Harrisburg Railers #9) by R.J. Scott and V.L. Locey
A MelanieM Review: Save the Date (Harrisburg Railers #9) by R.J. Scott and V.L. Locey
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Release Day Review: Raze (Riven #3) by Roan Parrish
An Alisa Release Day Review: Fox Hunt (Shifter U #4) by J. Leigh Bailey
A Caryn Release Day Review: The Importance of Being Kevin by Steven Harper
Wednesday, July 3:
Release Blitz – I’ve Got You by Becca Seymour
BLITZ Where the Night Reigns by Emilie Lucadamo
PROMO BA Tortuga on Come Back Around (Leaning N #4) by B.A. Tortuga
Blog Post – LA Bryce – Love, Trust & Secrets
A Stella Review : I’ve Got You by Becca Seymour
A MelanieM Release Day Review:Come Back Around (Leaning N #4) by B.A. Tortuga
Thursday, July 4th:
DSP PROMO j. leigh bailey and Fox Hunt (Shifter U #4)
Release Blitz – Sam Burns – Salmon & The Hazel (Rowan Harbor Cycle)
Release Blitz – MATED by Tricia Owens
TOUR DANCING WITH THE LION: BECOMING by Jeanne Reames
An Alisa Review Waited So Long by JM Dabney
Reviews – MATED by Tricia Owens
Friday, July 5:
Review Tour – Ari McKay – Recipe For Romance
PROMO Victoria Milne
Release Blitz – Espejos (South Texas Lore 1) by Michael War
A Lila Review: Espejos (South Texas Lore 1) by Michael War
A MelanieM Review: Recipe for Romance (Recipe for Romance #1-4) by Ari McKay
A Chaos Moondrawn Release Day Review: Never a Hero (Tucker Springs #5) by Marie Sexton
Saturday, July 6:
Release Blitz Tour – Michael Mandrake – Death’s Angel
A MelanieM Review: Here Comes the Son by Dahlia Donovan
Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words 