What would you do if you rode into a mountain tunnel in North Carolina and then rode out into a different world? Adam Stephens is about to find out…
Adam Stephens is a man with a mission. It has been three years since they chopped that malignant brain tumor out of his head, and he is off on a solo motorcycle camping trip through the Appalachian Mountains.
When he rides into the Pine Mountain Tunnel in North Carolina and rides out into another realm—a realm that comes complete with a big sexy grizzly bear shifter, mages, and an evil sorcerer—he isn’t sure he isn’t lying in the tunnel after crashing his bike. Can such a world exist? Or is he dreaming? If he is dreaming…it sure is realistic.
Along the way, there will be some major hurdles to surpass including no indoor plumbing…and no coffee. A man needs some basic luxuries, correct?
I’m as divided about writing this review as I was when I finished this story. Beyond The Tunnel (The Wizard Shifter #1)by Dan Mitton has left me with so many mixed thoughts and feelings about this novel. Generally, they are all mostly good. I completed the story knowing I would love to read more in the series and that the characters certainly left a big enough impression that I wanted to know what happened to them after the ending.
First off? I loved the premise of this story. A man still in recovery from brain surgery decides to take motorcycle trip he had always planned on before his next chemo session starts. Only the light he sees exiting a tunnel in North Carolina shines with a different glow, the highway has disappeared, and the forest turned almost primeval in it’s towering growth. Is it a delusion…a result of the surgery and tumor or is it real? That would have been an interesting road to travel but Mitton goes for the straightford route which still works here.
Adams has found his way into another world, complete with magic, shifters, and an evil sorcerer. Whew. Once here, so many things start to happen. There’s a huge case of instant love. And to give the author his due, Adam remarks that yes, it’s instant love with tons of sex. Unfortunately, this part of the story doesn’t help the book. I liked both characters of Adam and Rafe but never felt that they had the time to develop their relationship. That ‘instant love’ thing just doesn’t work here. Good thing both are likable.
However, there’s so much more happening here. Mostly about an evil sorcerer, who just happens to be from Adam’s time. I found the author’s ability to make the villages and their inhabitants come alive especially appealing and essential to this story. I cared about them and certain events are devastating.
Mitton sets himself a high agenda here with this story, with multiple tasks he obviously he wanted to accomplish with the narrative. So much so that he starts with certain threads and then drops them throughout the storyline. I’m not sure if that’s because he’s going to use them in stories down the line or what. But to have these tantalizing hints tossed out here and then nothing made of them? Sort of irritating. Adam glowed in the dark in places Rafe reported? Had snatches of lightning that appeared around him? Little story elements so curious and neat that just disappear never to be seen again. Argh. And yes, there are huge holes in the story here that never to get explained satisfactorily or at all. Almost all center around magic, Adam and the mysterious sorcerer.
However, there are scenes so beautifully descriptive you’ll believe you are there. Characters both down to earth and magical that you’ll connect with and root for. There’s so much in this story that even when you want to say “why did he pull that in”, you keep going because you have to know what happens to them all.
I won’t discuss the ending. Parts really didn’t make too much sense, especially with regards to the evil sorcerer. So I expect he’s coming back in the sequel. It all ends on an up and joyous note, one that will make you want to read the next story.
Cover art works for both the characters and the storyline, Great job.
Yes, this is the week the weather took over Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words! So cold my keyboard (ok, my fingers) just about froze! Six degrees here and they are calling for much colder weather to come! Nope, Maryland is officially known as The Temperate State. Nothing temperate about these temperatures! In fact the whole East Coast is frozen from Niagara Falls to Tallahassee, Florida. Snow is falling in Texas to Florida. Iguanas are dropping like hail near the Everglades. And the Meteorologists are having a field day, either defending or denying the use of some of the words I’ve used above. Especially bombogenesis! That one caused a howl!
Nice to see language and words with the power to make things pop on a daily basis! You can find the definitions of these terms and others like seiche and haboob here. Terrific article but I’m more interested in the way these words flew about the media. People got downright Twitterpated! There’s a polar bombogenesis coming! RUN!!!!!!! To the grocery store or the liquor store or wherever one runs. But run! Not sure where they thought we were going? Alaska? Because it’s downright warmer there then here. How about “bomb cyclone”? Heard that one too! What terms have you been hearing? How have you been coping with the cold, if at all? Maybe you are one of the luckier ones and live outside the “frozen zone”, what advice, other than “Let It Go” (runs and hides) would you have for us?
I’ve been taking the cold by staying inside with the dogs and reading (and binging Netflix I confess). The cold (a 2 degree morning today) is good for that. Luckily I’ve had some wonderful stories for company. Charlie Cochrane’s Lindenshaw Mysteries (a cozy if ever there was one) is on it’s third installment. Just terrific. Plus I have some old favorites I’m discussing below. What are you all reading during this “bomb cyclone”? Or winter hurricane? What tales are keeping you warm? More about that later….
Now, onto this week. There are some very special books we are reviewing this week, some with starts that go way back! This week I’m finishing up a trilogy that started in 2009. That would be Astrid Amara’s wonderful Bellskis series. One came out in holiday season 2009, then another during the holiday in 2011, and then…nothing. I was bereft! I loved this series and couple! Then the news that Loose id was closing and the final story arrived. Wedding Bellskis! Be still my heart. All three are reviewed this week. Astrid Amara’s trilogy combines murder, mystery, Hanukkah, a sometimes rocky romance, and a couple to remember. Check them out!
Next up? Another story with it’s start years ago. That would be Laura Baumbach’s Genetic Snare. How many of you science fiction lovers remember the first story? That would be Details of the Hunt (Details #1) by Laura Baumbach published back in 2006 (2007). Honestly I can’t remember which year I read but I think it was 2006. A long time! Anyway, then she announced there would be a sequel….which never came. Which because she was busy establishing MLR Press among other things. Now, years later, we are finally getting that story! There’s a time traveled pirate, a huge alien who talks like a film noir gangster, suspense, and alien tentacle sex..sort of. Yes, it works but you really need to read both books.
Finally there’s Amy Tasukada’s Yakusa Path series. The third book is out and I’m reviewing it this week. It was one of my Best of 2017 and it looks as though it will be on my 2018 list as well. Just amazing. So if you don’t mind gritty, brilliant, bloody fiction, check out One Thousand Cranes (Yakuza Path #3) by Amy Tasukada. Again you will need the entire series.
All that and so much more! There’s a few more holiday stories and audiobook reviews and everything in between. Plus giveaways, author interviews, and guest posts! Stay with us, stay warm, and stay safe….
More about the giveaway at the end of the post.
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Sunday, January 7:
Of Polar Vortexes. Bombogenesis and Thundersnow.
This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
A MelanieM Review: Carol of the Bellskis (Bellskis, #1) by Astrid Amara
Monday, January 8:
Hannah Carmack on Seven-Sided Spy
Blog tour *Bleeding Like Me by Riley Parks
DSP Promo Ari McKay
A Stella Review: Like a Gentleman by Eliot Grayson
A MelanieM Review: Beyond The Tunnel by Dan Mitton
An Alisa Review: Tangled Up in You by Emily Carrington
A Lila Audiobook Review: Uncommonly Tidy Poltergeists by Angel Martinez and Michael Pauley (Narrator)
Tuesday, January 9:
Release Blitz – Lost In Time – A.L. Lester
DSP Promo Logan Meredith
DSP Promo Z. Allora on The Great Wall
A Jeri Release Day Review: Bleu Balls (Balls to the Wall #7) by Tara Lain
A Lila Release Day Review: Southernmost Murder by C.S. Poe
A MelanieM Review: Bring Me the Deadby Becky Black
A MelanieM Review: A MelanieM Review: One Thousand Cranes (Yakuza Path #3) by Amy Tasukada
An Alisa Audiobook Review: Freckles by Amy Lane and Nick J. Russo (Narrator)
Thursday, January 11:
DSP Promo Andrew Grey
Harmony Ink Promo Gene Gant
Riptide Tour & Giveaway: Relay by Layla Reyne
A MelanieM Review: Genetic Snare (Details #2) by Laura Baumbach
An Alisa Review: Christmas Kisses at the North Pole by Jessie Pinkham
A MelanieM Review: Miracle of the Bellskis (Bellskis, #2) by Astrid Amara
Friday, January 12:
Release Blitz & Review Tour for Rebecca Cohen’s Not All Chocolates & Cuckoo
Review Tour for Sam Burns’ Blackbird In The Reeds
Riptide Tour and Giveaway: Two Feet Under by Charlie Cochrane
A MelanieM Review: Two Feet Under (Lindenshaw Mysteries #3) by Charlie Cochrane
A MelanieM Review: Not All Chocolates & Cuckoo Clocks by Rebecca Cohen
A Stella Review: Composing a Family: A Mannies Incorporated Novel by Sean Michael
Saturday, January 13:
A MelanieM Review: Magical Rescue (Shifting through the Snow Book 8) by Laura Baumbach
A MelanieM Review:Wedding Bellskis (Holidays with the Bellskis, #3)by Astrid Amara
Best of 2017 Giveaway
Who has made an impact on you this year? Start thinking about it. This week starts our Best of 2017 Giveaways. We need your Best of in whatever Categories you would like to submit. Have a Best of Covers? Great! How about a Bests of Supernatural Romance? Perfect! Best Historical Romance? Love it! Getting the idea? So what’s your Best of 2017? I will be gathering mine for the next 2 weeks and will trot them out at the end of the month. Prizes will be offered up! Gift certificates, more than one, for participations and more.
Our Winners are: Purple Reader, H.B., and Ana! A $10 Gift Card will be yours. Happy New Years to all of you and a huge thank you to everyone that provided us with all those lists. I will be putting up a page with everyone’s 2017 Lists this week so be on the lookout for that too! New Giveaway up next week! Yep the Polar Vortex Giveaway!
Colt Jager never knew what happened to the parents who abandoned him, and he never cared–until he inherited their ghoulish secret.
Raised as a human who had no idea he was anything but a blue-collar construction worker until the night of his 25th birthday, Colt finds it hard to adjust to life in the Kinship, a hidden world woven discreetly into human society.
After a grisly encounter with his true nature, Colt meets a family of human-friendly ghouls who teach him that there’s a way to be inhuman without being inhumane. But things get complicated when he realizes that the “wolf attack” responsible for killing his boyfriend’s brother was actually committed by a ghoul on the hunt.
When an elite family of especially monstrous ghouls called Alphas threatens the man he loves, Colt will have to lie to Jason to keep him safe. Can a predator ever truly be a hero, or will the man he loves become his prey?
What an unexpected treat this story turned out to be! A first release by Kat Bellamy, Ghoulish revolves around a main character that’s yes, a ghoul in love with a human, not that he’s aware of it right at the very beginning of the story. Now ghouls are not something I normally find as main characters in my LGBTQIA romances or any romances for that matter in fiction.
Where do I find them? In superb anime like Tokyo Ghoul (if you love anime’ and haven’t found this series, it’s a must) or, ok, that’s about it. I can’t think of any outside of anime or Manga. So for Bellamy to make this work (and they did), they needed to create an empathetic character, a group of support characters we can also care about, do a terrific job with their universe building, and weave in a romance and a suspenseful plot.
Check, check, check, check, and check. All accomplished.
Not bad for a first work. In fact, this story had me in it’s grip from the moment Colt discovers his true nature. From then on, it’s a “hang onto your seat, flip that page, stay riveted to the story” sort of tale. I became so immersed in Colt’s life, his deadly situations (really no pun intended), even his romance with Jason, that I was unaware of the time flying by. It was 2 am when I finished and I was heartily sorry to see these characters go.
Several things here. There is a fairly large cast of characters but not too many that a reader can’t keep track of them. The world building isn’t complete but as there’s a sequel coming, I won’t fault the author on that, hoping the new novel is going to fill in the blanks as the title (The Kinship) seems to infer. This is a HFN and honestly, the romance sort of takes a backseat, or at least slides a bit to the side, to all the other marvelous narrative work going on here. It’s a thriller, laden with suspense, but still manages to be full of tons of heartwarming elements and love. Huh, how about that! And that’s on the ghoul side!
Anyway. Any details would just spoil this so none are given. Read it! The characters are great, the writing flows quickly, the scenes are vivid, and the story will keep you on the edge of your seat. Plus I thought the ending worked because there’s a sequel coming and hopefully, there’s a younger character I need to spend more time with. And we still have some mysteries to unfold. Yes, I can see this as a series to successfully run on past the sequel. Now I’m anxiously waiting the next book out. Why not pick this one up and catch up to me! I highly recommend it! Ghouls in love are so much fun!
Cover art is eye-catching even if that model is getting to be a bit overworked.
Nolan has heard werewolves love bondage and toys in the bedroom, but Halken brings more than just his kinky nature.
Under the lights of the beautiful city, Tromsø, the call for pleasure fills the snowy air.
Having left the deep north in an attempt to bury past demons, Halken finds himself drawn in by a gorgeous blond dryad. With his original plan to leave Tromsø tossed out the window, he takes his dance partner home, fully intent on mating with him.
Nolan has heard rumors about werewolves, what they like in the bedroom. He quickly finds out that most all of these rumors are true. Taken in by his sexy wolf, he finds himself in the most erotic of situations with Halken…and begging for more.
Halken talks little of himself, preferring to keep his past exactly where it belongs. In the past.
But what he left there has a mind of its own. A deranged rogue wolf stalks the city, following the scent of what he wants—and he will have it, one way or another.
Okay, so I’m still not sold on how the mating works in this world; there apparently needs to be a pull but it isn’t completely being picked by a more dominate partner. Nolan can’t believe his luck when Halken chooses him but Halken has some stuff from his past that will have to be resolved first.
The conflict of the fae continues into his story but not much happens with it. The main focus is the rogue wolf who wants to mate with Halken, with this we get a little more insight into mating but not enough for me. Nolan and Halken find happiness but we don’t get much in the way of relationship building or anything, they pretty much mate and then deal with the rogue shifter and they are good. I enjoyed seeing the characters from the first book and hope that as more books join the series we continue to learn more about this world.
The cover art is great and follows the style for the series.
Devon Murphy has never believed that there were fairies at the bottom of the garden, but when he’s in an accident on his way to his grandmother’s house and comes face to face with the biggest, baddest wolf he’s ever seen, he’s forced to reconsider.
When his grandmother asks him to look into a string of suspicious accidents, he finds a much bigger mystery to unravel. From his childhood best friend to the too-attractive Deputy Wade Hunter, everyone in Rowan Harbor seems to have something to hide. Devon has to get to the bottom of it all before the accidents turn deadly.
Author Bio
Sam wrote her first fantasy epic with her best friend when she was ten. Like almost any epic fiction written by a ten year old, it was awful. She likes to think she’s improved since then, if only because she has better handwriting now.
If she’s not writing, she’s almost certainly either reading or lost down a wikipedia rabbit hole while pretending to research for a novel.
So Long 2017! Hello 2018! It’s Our Final 2017 Best of Lists.
suze294
My 5* reads from this year
The Executive Office series, Tal Bauer
Sins of the cities series, KJ Charles
Forever Haunt (Jimmy McSwain 5), Adam Carpenter
This Fire Inside, Jordan Nasser
What It Looks Like, Matthew J Metzger
Wolfsong, TJ Klune
Priddys Tale, Harper Fox
Bitter Legacy, Dal Maclean
Switched, NR Walker
The Definitive Albert J Sterne, Julie Bozza
Reaping Fate, AJ Rose
From Ana:
My Bests: Best Mystery: Kill Game by Cordelia Kingsbridge and Risky Behavior by LA Witt & Cari Z Best Audiobook: Femme by Marshall Thornton Best Cover:Antisocial by Heidi Cullinan Best Contemporary (this is hard to choose, so many good ones): Becoming Kerry by Lynn Kelling, The Impossible Boy by Anna Martin, Off the Ice by Avon Gale and Piper Vaugh, Manic Pixie Dream Boy by KA Merikan and Disease by Hans M Hirshchi Best Dark Theme: Backdoor Politics by CL Mustafic
Amy:
Favorite On-Going Series in 2017
Hexworld by Jordan L. Hawk
Aberrant Magic by Lyn Gala
Offbeat Crimes by Angel Martinez
Bad Behavior by L.A. Witt and Cari Z
Rainbow Cove by Annabeth Albert
Scoring Chances by Avon Gale
and more from Didi:
I’m adding two more lists of mine here, for PNR and May/December (or Age-Gap as one MC’s not into his December yet 😉 ).
Best Paranormal Romance:
– Spectred Isle by KJ Charles
– Hexslayer by Jordan L. Hawk
– Undertow by Jordan L. Hawk
– The Well by Marie Sexton
– Fraud Twice Felt by JT Hall
Best May/December Romance:
– Off the Ice by Avon Gale & Piper Vaughn
– Spun! by JL Merrow
– Trust the Chaser by Annabelle Albert
– Risky Behavior by LA Witt & Cari Z (I cheated, it’s more age-gap than May/December, I think)
– Permanent Ink by Avon Gale & Piper Vaughn
Best of Lists from STRW
More from Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Reviewers:
From Lila:
Looking back on my shelves, The Best of 2017 (according to me) are:
Here are my lists, many and long as I warned everyone. What a year and I still mourn the books I hesitatingly left off. These are listed in absolutely no particular order excerpt that I was scrambling to look at my notes and books kept popping up here and there….
♥︎Best Contemporary Fiction with Romance
Ghost (Executioners #1) by J.M Dabney Joker (Executioners #2) by J.M Dabney Watermelon Kisses by Freddy Mackay There’s This Guy by Rhys Ford Shelter the Sea (The Roosevelt, #2) by Heidi Cullinan Antisocial by Heidi Cullinan Switched by NR Walker Late in the Day (The Vault #2) by Mary Calmes
Micah Johnson Goes West (Get Out #2) by Sean Kennedy House of Cards (Porthkennack #4)by Garrett Leigh Foxglove Copse (Porthkennack #5) by Alex Beecroft Fair Chance (All’s Fair #3) by Josh Lanyon Hawaiian Orchid (The Hawaiians 2) by Meg Amor Snowblind by Eli Easton Who We Are by Nicola Haken Fishy Riotby Lindsey Black Rhino Ash by Lindsey Black Bonfires by Amy Lane Catch and Release (The Release, #3) by B.A. Tortuga
The Stark Divide (Liminal Sky #1) by J. Scott Coatsworth Sūnder (Darksoul #1) by Lexi Ander The Jackal’s House (Lancaster’s Luck #2) by Anna Butler – steampunk
♥︎Best of Fantasy:
His Mossy Boy (Being(s) in Love#8) by R. Cooper Dim Sum Asylum by Rhys Ford The Heart of the Lost Star by Megan Derr Ravens (Inheritance #3) by Amelia Faulkner
♥︎Best Supernatural/Paranormal:
Bitten by Design (Regent’s Park Pack #2) by Annabelle Jacobs Skim Blood and Savage Verse (Offbeat Crimes #3) by Angel Martinez (actually all the books in this series)
♥︎Best Series:
Aisling Trilogy by Carole Cummings (high fantasy) The Hawaiians by Meg Amor (contemporary romance) Offbeat Crimes by Angel Martinez (humor, fantasy, supernatural) Nicky and Noah Mysteries by Joe Cosentino (high camp, high humor, mystery) Inheritance by Amelia Faulkner (fantasy, supernatural) The Kingdom Series (Vol 1 & 2) by RJ Scott (fantasy) Rainbow Cove by Annabeth Albert #gaymers by Annabeth Albert Being(s) in Loveby R. Cooper The Release series by BA Tortuga The Sin Binby Dahlia Donovan (contemporary) The Yakuza Pathseries by Amy Tasukada (contemporary fiction) violent, bloody, brilliant, not romance)
♥︎Great Series Ending:
Sanctuary Series by RJ Scott Texas Series by RJ Scott Mahu by Neil S. Plakcy All’s Fair by Josh Lanyon Werecatseries by Andrew J. Peters Holiday with the Bellskis by Astrid Amara End Street Detectives by RJ Scott (supernatural)
♥︎Holiday Series ~ special mention:Holidays with the Bellskis Series by Astrid Amara (final story just out)
Carol of the Bellskis (Bellskis, #1) by Astrid Amara
Miracle of the Bellskis (Bellskis, #2) by Astrid Amara Wedding Bellskis (Holidays with the Bellskis, #3) byAstrid Amara
♥︎Best Covers:
A Destiny of Dragons (Tales From Verania) by TJ Klune, Artist Paul Richmond Red Fish, Dead Fish (Fish Out of Water#2) by Amy Lane, Artist: Reese Dante
Sunset at Pencarrow (World of Love) by Lou Sylvre and Anne Barwell, Artist: Reese Dante An Island in the Starsby Susan Laine, Artist: Anna Sikorska Antisocial by Heidi Cullinan, Cover art by Natsukoworks, Cover design by Kanaxa Designs. The Lure of Port Stephen by Sydney Blackburn, Artist Natasha Snow Manny Get Your Guy (The Mannies #2) by Amy Lane, Artist: Paul Richmond Comes a Horseman (Echoes Rising #3) by Anne Barwell, Artist: Reese Dante A New Way to Dance by Sean Michael, Artist: Anne Squires The Glamour Thieves by Don Allmon, Artist: Simone
Conned By Jana Denardo, Artist: Melody Pond Sūnder (Darksoul #1) by Lexi Ander, Artist:Kirby Crow The Blacksmith Prince by Beryll & Osiris Brackhaus, Artist: Lady Tiferet Foxglove Copse (Porthkennack #5) by Alex Beecroft, Artist: G.D. Leigh
♥︎
Well those are my choices and I’m sure I’ve even left a quite of few out. How did all of your lists come out? Did you all find some new books to add to your TBR lists on everyone’s Best of Lists? Winner Announcements to come next week as they would get lost and we need to have something to look forward to!
Have a Safe and Happy New Year! See you all in 2018! Happy Reading from Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words to all of you!
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Sunday, December 31- Happy New Eve’s:
So Long 2017! Hello 2018! It’s Our Final 2017 Best of Lists.
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.
A Stella Advent Release Day Review: Eugene and the Box of Nailsby Jaime Samms
Monday, January 1:
Book Blitz: Blackwelder 2164 by Christopher D. J
BLITZ The Calling by MD Neu
RIPTIDE TOUR Reckless Behavior by LA Witt and Cari Z
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Operation Green Card by GB Gordon
A Kai Audiobook Review: Nachos & Hash by Brandon Witt and Dominic Carlos (Narrator)
A MelanieM Review: Hurricane by BA Tortuga
Tuesday, January 2:
Cover Reveal for Shae Connor’s Teaching Ben
DSP Promo K.A. Mitchell
RIPTIDE TOUR On Solid Ground by Quinn Anderson
Tour: A Different Light by Morningstar Ashley
A MelanieM Release Day Review: Prelude to Love by Anne Barwell
A MelanieM Review: Bound by Thorns (Dragon Soul #3) by Sean Michael
Wednesday, January 3:
Blog Tour *Won’t Feel A Thing by C.F. White
Release Blitz – Bonnie Dee – The Fortune Hunter
DSP Dreamspun Promo Anne Barwell
A VVivacious Review: OBSESSION by Theophilia St. Claire
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Outside the Lines by Anna Zabo
A MelanieM Review: Wait For Me by Kris Jacen
Thursday, January 4:
Release Blitz & Review Tour Request – Sam Burns – Blackbird In The Reeds
Sin and Saint by J.M. Dabney RDB, Tour
A MelanieM Release Day Review: Sin and Saint by J.M. Dabney
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Reckless Behavior by LA Witt and Cari Z
A Stella Review: The Best Gift by Shawn Lane
An Alisa Review Wolf’s Kiss by Siryn Sueng
Friday, January 5:
Dreamspinner Promo: Alix Bekins and Connie Bailey, authors of Song and Key
Release Blitz – Vows Box Set – Addison Albright
RELEASE BLITZ Felix and the Prince by Lucy Lennox
A MelanieM Audiobook Review: Smitty’s Sheriff by Cardeno C
A Stella Pre Release Review: When the Devil Wants In by Cate Ashwood and JH Knight
An Alisa Prerelease Review: Forever With You By Londra Laine
This week I’m devoting our blog to lists from our readers and what wonderful lists they came up with. One author on many of there lists is one that will be on mine too. But in what manner? Because Annabeth Albert is one author I’m wrestling with right now for mine own lists because I love so many of her stories. What do I choose from? Her #gaymers series (Status Update, Beta Test)? Her Out of Uniform series (On Point) or even her newest one Rainbow Cove (Tender with a Twist)? Rhys Ford for her gritty urban fantasy and contemporary? Heidi Cullinan? On and on, there are authors with multiple stories that made a huge impact on me this year…how to narrow the list down or do I?
Please feel free to chime in here. Because my lists start tending to look like scrolls rolling across the floor…
And then there are the authors new to me and their series, writers like J.M. Dabney, Dahlia Donovan, and Lindsey Black.
Yes, my list will be long. Be prepared on the 31st! Until then enjoy these wonderful lists from some of our readers and you still have until the end of the week to get yours in as well and be entered for our Best of 2017 Giveaways. See the details below. Until next week..
Be Safe, Be Merry, and Happy Reading from all of us to all of you!
Happy Holidays to one and all from everyone here at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words!
♡From H.B.
Thanks for sharing your list with us. I never was very good at picking out books I thought were the best over all books I’ve read well here goes:
Best of series 2017:
At Last, The Beloved by Stella Starling
The F-Word by E. Davies
Regent’s Park Pack by Annabelle Jacobs (technically book 1 was released in 2016 but book 2 and 3 was released this year)
Luna Brothers by Ashe Moon
2017 Best Novels:
Archangel’s Assassin by Barbara Elsborg
Haunted by Casey Ashwood
Thick & Thin (THIRDS 8) by Charlie Cochet
Darkest Hour Before Dawn (THIRDS 9) by Charlie Cochet
Gummy Bears & Grenades (THIRDS 9.5) by Charlie Cochet
Dim Sum Asylum by Rhys Ford
Siren’s Call by J.C. Owens
The Foxling Soldati (Soldati Hearts 2) by Charlie Cochet
Bone to Pick by T.A. Moore
Daimonion (The Apocalypse 1) by J.P. Jackson
To Touch You (Mates 4) by Cardeno C.
A Worthy Man (The Men of Halfway House 5) by Jaime Reese
FU: Fixer Uppers by Devon McCormack
Love Connection (#gaymers 3.5) by Annabeth Albert
True Colors (True Love 2) by Anyta Sunday
Half by Eli Lang
Married for a Month by Cate Ashwood
Ge-Mi (Part One) by Mell Eight
Man Walks into a Bar: A Trio of Short Stories by Lissa Ford
Best listened to audiobook in 2017:
Don’t Twunk With My Heart (Loving You 2) by Renae Kaye
Whyborne and Griffin series book 1-8 by Jordan l. Hawk
Lightning Struck Heart by T.J. Klune
Stranger on the Shore by Josh Lanyon
#gaymers series by Annabeth Albert
♡From Ami:
It is ALWAYS difficult for me to choose things for “Best” List. Mainly because I read a lot (more than 400 titles, MM and MF) so I hate sorting them out in order. But I’ll try. And I prefer to use the word “Favorite” rather than Best, since I know my taste is different than others
Favorite Novel Read in 2017
Back to You by Chris Scully
Kill Game by Cordelia Kingsbride
Love is Heartless by Kim Fielding
On Point by Annabeth Albert
Bad Behavior by L.A. Witt & Cari Z.
Accepting the Fall by Meg Harding
The Love Song of Sawyer Bell by Avon Gale (F/F Romance)
Tender with a Twist by Annabeth Albert
Sightlines by Santino Hassell
Favorite Novella / Short Story Read in 2017
The Layover by Roe Horvat
Handmade Holidays by Nathan Burgoine
♡From Jen27:
Here are some of mine from 2017.
Series:Whyborne & Griffin by Jordan L. Hawk (has been since it started)
New-to-me-Author:Kasia Bacon Holiday story: Color of You by C.S. Poe (I was lucky enough to win an ARC.) Audiobook: The Alpha King by Victoria Sue Short Story: Dear Mona Lisa by Claire Davis & Al Stewart
I have way to many novels that I loved, but some of the authors who had multiple five star reads for me this year are: Jordan L. Hawk, Rhys Ford, Tal Bauer, Victoria Sue, Kasia Bacon, Keira Andrews, NR Walker, KJ Charles, Cat Sebastian, CS Poe, Eli Easton, Layla Reyne, Charlie Cochet, Annabeth Albert, Garrett Leigh, Santino Hassell, TJ Klune, Harper Fox
♡And Purple Reader:
hanks fro all the good recs. Certainly a lot to look into. I didn’t know if this was limited to 2017 releases, but as far as fantasy goes: I read and loved the first 4 in Andrew Q. Gordon’s Champion of the Gods series this year, and the latest (4th – Child of Night & Day) was this year.
Best of 2017 Giveaway
Who has made an impact on you this year? Start thinking about it. This week starts our Best of 2017 Giveaways. We need your Best of in whatever Categories you would like to submit. Have a Best of Covers? Great! How about a Bests of Supernatural Romance? Perfect! Best Historical Romance? Love it! Getting the idea? So what’s your Best of 2017? I will be gathering mine for the next 2 weeks and will trot them out at the end of the month. Prizes will be offered up! Gift certificates, more than one, for participations and more.
Ends this Saturday, December 30th. So get those lists in and let’s starting comparing! Happy compiling! Must be 18 years old to enter.
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Sunday, December 24:
An Alisa Advent Release Day Review: Candy Canes and Cappuccinos by Elizabeth Coldwell
An Alisa Review: The Icicles by R.W. Clinger
Almost There! The Best is Yet to Come 2017 Best of Lists Continue.
This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Monday, December 25 – Merry Christmas Everyone!
Book BLITZ Get Up by Reece Pine
BLITZ Run in the Blood by A.E. Ross
Jared’s Fulfillment by Riley Hart Blog Tour
A Caryn Release Day Review: Color of You by CS Poe
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review:Don’t Plan to Stay by Kaje Harper
A MelanieM Advent Release Day Review: Homemade from the Heartby Bru Baker
A Stella Review: Like a Gentleman, by Eliot Grayson
Tuesday, December 26:
DSP Promo Scotty Cade on Someone To Kiss
Tour Blitz for Sin and Saint by J.M. Dabney
A Free Dreamer Review :In Blood and Pain by Aldrea Alien
A MelanieM Advent Release Day Review: The Billionaire’s Boxing Day Bargain by Ava Hayden
A MelanieM Release Day Review: Sin & Saint (Executioners #4) by J.M. Dabney
An Ali Review: Will & Patrick’s Endless Honeymoon (Wake Up Married #7) by Leta Blake
Wednesday, December 27:
On tour:Blood’s Song by Tempeste O’Riley
DSP Promo KC Burn
A Caryn Release Day Review: Being with Him by Mickie Ashling
An Alisa Review: I Only Want to Be With You by J Scott Coatsworth
A Caryn Advent Release Day Review: A Holiday Crush by CJane Elliott
An Alisa Release Day Review: Someone to Kiss by Scotty Cade
Thursday, December 28:
Harmony Ink Promo RG Thomas
SEAN MICHAEL on Composing a Family
A LIla Review: Came Upon a Midnight Clear by Katie Porter
A MelanieM Advent Release Day Review: Ghostwriter of Christmas Past by TA Moore
A MelanieM Review:A Viking For Yule by Jamie Fessenden
An Ali Review : On Your Knees, Prospect by KA Merikan
An Alisa Review: Life on Pause by Erin McLellan
Friday, December 29:
Cover Reveal for La Famiglia (A Men of Gilead Novel) by Deanna Wadsworth
Release Blitz – Beyond The Tunnel – Dan Mitton
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Eight Nights In December by Keira Andrews
A MelanieM Advent Release Day Review: New Game, Start by C.S. Poe
A MelanieM Review: 415 Ink: Rebel by Rhys Ford
An Alisa Review: Raven (Elsewhere #2) by H.J. Perry
Saturday, December 30:
A Lila Advent Release Day Review: The Werewolf before Christmas by Charles Payseur
A MelanieM Review: A Cop for Christmas by Jamie Fessenden
This week we have more lists from our reviewers and some from our readers. We have best books and best covers from Stella and Barb the Zany Old Lady. Check out their recommendations. See where they fall on your lists, if they made your lists or if you have read them at all and perhaps need to put them on your TBR lists!
That last always happens to me.
Then I started to include more lists from our readers as well. The Best of Giveaway is still going on. Look for it at the bottom of this post before our schedule of the week! And now for Stella’s Best Books for 2017:
Stella’s BEST BOOKS of 2017
Be My Best Man by Con Riley
Permanent Ink by Piper Vaughn and Avon Gale
Spun! by JL Merrow
Haven’s War by Parker Williams
Back to You by Chris Scully
Gone by the Board by August Li
The Seafarer’s Kiss by Julia Ember
Wake Up Call by JL Merrow
Renaissance by Lillian francis
Beneath The Stars by Lynn Charles
Second Chances by TA Webb
Ringo and The Sunshine Police by Nick Wilgus
Love Rising by Piper Vaughn
Lunch with the DoNothings at the Tammy Dinette by Killian B Brewer
BEST COVERS
The World in His Eyes by AJ Thomas
How to Save a Life by Eli Easton
The Half Wolf by Jay Northcote
The Seafarer’s Kiss by Julia Ember
From Barb the Zany Old Lady
My top 10 for 2017, in any order (I can’t decide which is the best of all):
Slow Heat by Leta Blake
Tender With a Twist by Annabeth Albert
Outside the Lines by Anna Zabo
Shelter the Sea by Heidi Cullinan
Controlled Burn by Erin McLellan
On Point by Annabeth Albert
Tender Mercies by Eli Easton
Kill Game by Cordelia Kingsbridge
Trust with a Chaser by Annabeth Albert
Risky Behavior by L.A. Witt and Cari Z.
And from one of our Readers!
From Didi:
Sorting out the best list is what I never did – or at least announced – before. I’m not that organized, lol. Since I consider this year is one of the good reading year for me though, I have a few best-of-2017 list based on my reading. Here are a couple in a random order..
Best Suspense Romance
– Kill Game by Cordelia Kingsbridge
– Risky Behavior by LA Witt & Cari Z
– Trustworthy by Astrid Amara
– Single Malt by Layla Reyne
– Enemies of the State by Tal Bauer
Best Covers
– Kill Game by Cordelia Kingsbridge
– The Remaking of Corbin Wale by Roan Parrish
– Off the Ice by Avon Gale & Piper Vaughn
– Ghostwriter of Christmas Past by TA Moore
– The Castaway Prince by Isabelle Adler
Best of 2017 Giveaway
Who has made an impact on you this year? Start thinking about it. This week starts our Best of 2017 Giveaways. We need your Best of in whatever Categories you would like to submit. Have a Best of Covers? Great! How about a Bests of Supernatural Romance? Perfect! Best Historical Romance? Love it! Getting the idea? So what’s your Best of 2017? I will be gathering mine for the next 2 weeks and will trot them out at the end of the month. Prizes will be offered up! Gift certificates, more than one, for participations and more.
Ends on Saturday, December 30th. So get those lists in and let’s starting comparing! Happy compiling! Must be 18 years old to enter.
This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Sunday, December 17;
A MelanieM Advent Release Day Review: Welcome Home Soldier by Deanna Wadsworth
An Alisa Release Day Review:Table for Oneby Connie Bailey
More of STRW Best of 2017! This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Monday, December 18:
Release Blitz – Nell Iris’ Unexpected Christmas
Review Tour – Ruby Moone’s The Mistletoe Kiss
Riptide Publishing’s Tour and Giveaway: Outside the Lines by Anna Zabo
A Caryn Review: The Mistletoe Kiss by Ruby Moone
A Lila Advent Release Day Review: Trading Tridents by C. M. Taylor
A Stella Review: Yours For The Holiday by DJ Jamison
An Alisa Review: The Christmas Eve Craigslist Killer by Jill Wexler
Tuesday. December 19:
Blog Promotion Tour – Why I Left You by Colette Davison
DSP Promo BA Tortuga on Slip
Riptide Publishing Bluewater Bay Tour and Giveaway: New Hand by LA Witt.
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: New Hand (Bluewater Bay #23) by L.A. Witt
A Jeri Review: New Hand by LA Witt
A Kai Advent Release Day Review: All Creatures Great and Small by Kasper Quill
A MelanieM Release Day Review: Beloved Son (Aisling Trilogy#3)by Carole Cummings
A MelanieM Review: Why I Left You by Colette Davison
Wednesday, December 20:
Book Blitz – Jamie Fessenden – A Viking For Yule
Book Tour – Short Order by Pat Henshaw
DSP Promo SJD Peterson on Roger
A Kai Review: Only with You (Only Colorado #1) by J.D. Chambers
A Lila Advent Release Day Review: Wreck the Halls (2017 Advent Calendar Daily – Stocking Stuffers) by Jessica Payseur
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: The King’s Courage (North Pole City Tales #6) by Charlie Cochet
A Lila Release Day Review: Roger by SJD Peterson
Thursday, December 21:
Jenn Burke on Fantasy and her story The Gryphon’s King’s Consort
A Holiday to Remember Tour (J. Scott Coatsworth)
DSP Promo Sean Michael
A MelanieM Review: Old Christmas Magic by Kassandra Lea
A Kai Advent Release Day Review: The Last Gift by Chrissy Munder
A MelanieM Review: Old Christmas Magic by Kassandra Lea
A VVivacious Review: Tournament of Champions by Tamryn Eradani
An Alisa Review: I Brake for Christmas by Michael P. Thomas
Friday, December 22:
BOOK TOUR – In Blood and Pain by Aldrea Alien
Cover Reveal – Lost In Time – A.L. Lester
DSP Dreamspun Promo B.G. Thomas
A Caryn Advent Release Day Review: The Holly Groweth Green by Amy Rae Durreson
A MelanieM Release Day Review: Slip (Recovery #2) by BA Tortuga
A MelanieM Review: Make The Yuletide Gay – Various Authors
Saturday, December 23:
DSP Promo B.G. Thomas
AN Alisa Advent Release Day Review: A Gift of Familyby Tami Veldura
A MelanieM Review: King (Executioners #3) by J.M. Dabney
Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Reviewers are chiming in this week. Ali and Alisa both came up with their Best of 2017 lists for our readers! Everything from Best Books to Best Covers! See if some of yours are among their choices. We want yours too so check out our giveaway just above this week’s schedule. It’s open all month.
Now for the first of many (we hope) of 2017 Best of Lists this month!
Best in Books in 2017
From Ali:
These were my favorite reads of the year:
Arrows Through Archer by Nash Summers
Everyday History by Alice Archer (although this was written last year so I don’t know if it counts)
Dear Mona Lisa by Claire Davis and Al Stewart
Kill Game by Cordelia Kingsbridge
Loose Cannon by Sidney Bell
Controlled Burn by Erin McLellan
Circle by Garrett Leigh
We Three Kings by AF Henley
My favorite covers of the year:
The Poison Within by Kasia Bacon
Kidnapped by the Pirate by Keira Andrews
Coach’s Challenge by Avon Gale
The Remaking of Corbin Wale by Roan Parrish
Blood Stained Tea by Amy Tasukada
Half by Eli Lang
From Alisa:
Here are my top books for 2017.
2017 Top Novels
Who We Truly Are by Victoria Sue
The Remaking of Corbin Wale by Roan Parrish
Christmas Eve Craigslist Killer by Jill Wexler
A Husband for Santa Claus by Missy Welsh
Vampire Claus by Robert Winter
Finding Home by Garrett Leigh
Nerdy Deeds by Tragen Moss
Without a Compass by Helen Juliet
Promises Part 3 by AE Via
Rogue Magic by Kit Brisby
Best Audiobooks of 2017
Until You by TJ Klune, narrator Reese Dante
The Deep of the Cound by Amy Lane, narrator Nick Russo
Kieran by Toni Griffin, narrator Nick Flint
Just Drive by LA Witt, narrator Nick Russo
Wake Me Up Inside by Cardeno C, narrator Charlie David
Best Series of 2017
Mates Collection by Cardeno C
A Nerd in the Hand by Tragen Moss
The Hollydale Omegas by Susi Hawke
Men of Meadowfall by Anna Wineheart
Ironwrought by Anna Wineheart
Common Powers by Lynn Lorenz
Three Wishes by Sean Michael
Roguefalls by April Kelly
The Omega Auction Chronicles by Kian Rhodes
Devils Pride MC by Jessie G
Best covers of 2017:
Best in Show by Kelly Jensen, cover artist Alexandria Corza
The Remaking of Corbin Wale by Roan Parrish, cover artist Natasha Snow
Who We Truly Are by Victoria Sue, cover artist Paul Richmond
Black Market Blood by Francis Gideon, cover artist AngstyG
Vampire Claus by Robert Winter, cover artist Dar Albert
Best of 2017 Giveaway
Who has made an impact on you this year? Start thinking about it. This week starts our Best of 2017 Giveaways. We need your Best of in whatever Categories you would like to submit. Have a Best of Covers? Great! How about a Bests of Supernatural Romance? Perfect! Best Historical Romance? Love it! Getting the idea? So what’s your Best of 2017? I will be gathering mine for the next 2 weeks and will trot them out at the end of the month. Prizes will be offered up! Gift certificates, more than one, for participations and more.
Ends on Saturday, December 30th. So get those lists in and let’s starting comparing! Happy compiling! Must be 18 years old to enter.
This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Sunday, December 10:
Best of 2017’s Coming In! This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
Blog Tour – His Taken Omega by L.C. Davis
Leaning Into a Wish by Lane Hayes Blog Tour
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Advent Release Day Review: The Puzzle Box (2017 Advent Calendar Daily – Stocking Stuffers) by C.C. Bridges
Monday, December 11:
Blog tour *Masked Heart by Chris McHart
Blog tour for The Perfect Gift, by Joe Cosentino
Review Tour – Not Just For Christmas by Annabelle Jacobs
A MelanieM Review: Not Just for Christmas by Annabelle Jacobs
A Jeri Release Day Review: An Unlocked Mind (Secrets#2) by K.C. Wells & Parker Williams
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review:Leaning Into A Wish (Leaning Into Stories #3.5)
by Lane Hayes
Tuesday, December 12:
DSP Promo S.A. Stovall
Promotion Tour – Memory of Me by Jess Thomas
Riptide Publishing Tour and Giveaway: Operation Green Card by GB Gordon
A MelanieM Review: The Unexpected Santa (The Sin Bin #5) by Dahlia Donovan
A Stella Review: Desperately Seeking Santa by Eli Easton
An Alisa Advent Release Day Review: Poison Marked (2017 Advent Calendar Daily – Stocking Stuffers)
by T.J. Nichol
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Audiobook Review: Dyeing to be Loved (Curl Up and Dye Mysteries #1)by Aimee Nicole Walker and Joel Leslie(Narrator)
Wednesday, December 13:
Blog Tour – Journey to Gaytopia by Joel Craig
Review Tour – RJ Scott’s Love Happens Anyway
In the Spotlight: Warlock Series By LM Somerton
A MelanieM Review: Love Happens Anyway by RJ Scott
A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Secrets and Silk by Nicole Dennis
A MelanieM Release Day Review: Short Order (Foothills Pride #8) by Pat Henshaw
A Caryn Advent Release Day Review: The Probability of Mistletoe (2017 Advent Calendar Daily – Stocking Stuffers)
by E.J. Russell
Thursday, December 14:
Tour for An Unlocked Mind by K.C. Well and Parker Williams
Book Tour – Ghoulish by Kat Bellamy
Review Tour – Secret Santa by Jay Northcote
An Alisa Review: The Remaking of Corbin Wale by Roan Parrish
His Taken Omega is a standalone story within the Mountain Shifter universe.
Blurb
Nicholas wants nothing to do with omegas, and Avery has already signed a contract binding him to another Alpha. Fate has other plans for them both.
As the omega spokesman for the infamous Futurus Initiative, Avery Callahan is a controversial figure who’s used to being envied, occasionally despised and always the center of attention. His kidnapping at the hands of the twisted omega at the helm of the radical anti-Futurus group known as Epsilon shook his perfect world to the core, and Avery’s abnormally conventional parents no longer know what to do with him. In a last-ditch effort to save their son’s reputation—and his engagement to a prestigious politician—the Callahans send him to the small, idyllic pack of Southbend for some much-needed rest and recovery.
When Avery arrives in Southbend, he finds the Meyer household anything but welcoming and he immediately clashes with the rakishly reluctant head of the household. Nicholas might be a brilliant lawyer with good looks and charm in abundance, but he makes no secret of the fact that Avery is persona non-grata in his pack. How is Avery supposed to heal his own wounds when an Alpha who looks at every omega with disdain makes him question everything, including his participation in the breeding program he’s devoted his life to promoting?
~
Nicholas has it all on the surface—rising-star status as an attorney with his own practice, a sizable inheritance and the option of going home with any omega he chooses at the end of the night—but beneath the mask of his status, he hides a secret that makes him feel unworthy of the title of Alpha. Past abuse has left him with a deep-seated revulsion towards omegas, the very class of shifter he’s supposed to crave. He uses work and meaningless flings with other Alphas and betas to distract himself from the family life he
doesn’t believe he deserves, but in the wake of his estranged father’s death, Nicholas is called home to take on a role he never wanted.
Forced to give up his high-profile career and take the reins of his family’s pack, Nicholas finds himself wholly unprepared to fill the shoes of the man he hated. Because fate isn’t cruel enough, the Spirits choose this moment to send him his destined mate—a charming yet infuriatingly stubborn omega he can never love or even claim. At least, that’s what he thinks until he realizes that the very traits that repel him from other omegas draw him to Avery in a way he finds as bewildering as it is intoxicating.
Excerpt 2
“Well,” Nicholas said, coming to a stop in the middle of the town square. “This is the great metropolis of Southbend. What do you think?”
“It is certainly that.” Nicholas grinned. “Should we head back? You must be tired after your trip.”
“I am,” Avery admitted, falling into step beside him. “Guess I am here to relax.”
“That’s what I heard.”
“What else have you heard?”
Nicholas wasn’t sure how to respond. Avery gave him a knowing look.
“You can be honest. You won’t hurt my feelings.”
“It’s nothing bad, if that’s what you’re thinking.”
“I guess that depends on whether you consider the public face of the Futurus Initiative having a nervous breakdown in the middle of a fundraiser to be a bad thing.”
“Everyone knows what you went through. You’re a hero. If they’d judge you for that, they’re not worth the time.”
“It’s been three months,” Avery murmured.
“Three months is barely enough time to enjoy summer break, let alone get over being kidnapped.”
“Maybe you can tell my parents that. They’re convinced I’m irreparably broken.”
“You don’t look broken to me.” Nicholas pretended to look the omega over for damage. “Maybe a small dent right here,” he said, poking the dimple on Avery’s cheek that deepened when he smiled.
“Either way, it looks like I’m stuck here until I can convince my parents of that.”
“That makes two of us. For what it’s worth, it’ll be nice to have the company.”
Another lie, but at least this one was for a worthy cause. It wasn’t Avery’s fault that an Alpha with an irrational aversion to omegas—or at least intimacy with one—had imprinted on him.
Avery was there to recover, not to find a mate when he already had one. The more Nicholas reminded himself of that, the better. His aversion had kept him single into his early thirties, so surely he could manage to control the hormones and irrational impulses for the few weeks Avery would be staying with them. Once he went back, both of their problems would be solved. Avery could go back to his life as the Futurus golden boy, and Nicholas could sleep a little easier knowing that he wasn’t going to imprint on the next omega who walked into his office looking for help.
In the meantime, he just had to fight the urge to commit the greatest sin of his profession: telling the truth.
What would you do if you rode into a mountain tunnel in North Carolina and then rode out into a different world? Adam Stephens is about to find out…
Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words 
