Tag: m/m historical romance

A Caryn Pre Release Review: The Black Sheep and The Rotten Apple by K.A. Merikan

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

the-black-sheep-and-the-rotten-apple-by-k-a-merikanFirst, the official blurb:

“How does one start a relationship with another man when it is forbidden?”

“One needs to decide that the other man is worth dying for.”

Cornwall, 1785

Sir Evan Penhart. Baronet. Highwayman. Scoundrel.

Julian Reece. Writer. Wastrel. Penniless.

No one forces Julian Reece to marry. Not his father, not his brother. No one.

When he is thrust into a carriage heading for London to meet his future bride, his way out comes in the form of an imposing highwayman, riding a horse as black as night. Julian makes a deal with the criminal, but what he doesn’t expect is that despite the title of baronet, the robber turns out to be no gentleman.

Sir Evan Penhart is pushed into crime out of desperation, but the pact with a pretty, young merchant’s son turns out to have disastrous consequences. Not only is Evan left broke, but worse yet, Julian opens up a Pandora’s box of passions that are dark, needy, and too wild to tame. With no way to lock them back in, rash decisions and greedy desire lead to a tide that wrecks everything in its way.

But Julian might actually like all the sinful, carnal passion unleashed on him. How can he admit this though, even to himself, when a taste of the forbidden fruit could have him end up with a noose around his neck? And with highway robbery being a hanging offense and the local constable on their back, Julian could lose Evan before he can decide anything about the nature of his desires.

I had to include the blurb, because it was really well written and catches your attention, and it truly does describe the plot, and the nature of the book.  There are layers and layers to the two main characters, and I actually read the book through twice before writing this review, because, well, it deserved it.

The first read through, I felt this was a tale of two men who descended into an amoral quagmire, as each crime committed led to another, until they truly were deserving of punishment.  The second read through was a little different and I could appreciate more of how Evan and Julian interacted with each other, as well as the way they rationalized their actions, even as their crimes escalated.  The blurb mentions “morally ambiguous protagonists” and that was the god’s honest truth – and got to me a little more than I thought it would.  I guess I’ve gotten way too used to my romances involving characters who are always, at the deepest level, good men, or at least men who have repented and changed by the time the book ends.  Not so here.

Julian is a narcissistic, entitled, shallow, immature, spoiled brat, who thinks nothing of using other people – family, friends, and strangers alike.  And though he is forced to recognize all of those traits in himself, and how despicable they make him, he didn’t care who he hurt to save Evan.  Was he a better man at the end of the book than at the beginning?  Jury is out on that one.  Evan probably started out as a good man, but abuse and neglect from his family, self-loathing for his homosexuality and punishment kink, a misplaced sense of responsibility, and a tragic end to his first love affair have left him with his priorities really screwed up.  Which not only led to his first theft, but kept him going on that path until the denouement that was shockingly violent.

Whew.  Not for the faint of heart, but definitely a book that will leave its mark on you.  If you truly believe “all’s fair in love and war” – and I mean, you really think it is OK to hurt anyone who stands in the way of true love – you will like the ending, and you will like the book.  I have qualms about that attitude, even when it’s absolutely appropriate for the setting of the book, so the whole thing left me a little disturbed.  Did I like the book?  I’m not quite sure because I’m so conflicted – I truly got invested in the characters, the romance was emotionally very passionate, and I wanted them to overcome obstacles, but the way they did that, well….. 

The kink level was not nearly as high as I expected from the blurb.  The historical perspective of homosexuality, class privilege, and gender roles was very well done, really reinforcing the fact that 1785 was a more violent time with very different social mores than 2017.

Cover art by Tiferet Design is nice in a very Fabio/regency romance way.

Sales Link coming soon

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Book Details:

ebook, 471 pages
Expected publication: February 7th 2017 by Acerbi & Villani ltd
Edition LanguageEnglish

In the Release Spotlight: The Viscount And The Artist – Alyson Pearce (excerpt and book details)

The Viscount And The Artist – Alyson Pearce

Length: 299 pages
 
 

Blurb

Andrew Cardwell is a man driven by duty to his country and to his family. After the death of his uncle, he’s determined to provide security and stability for his family as the new Viscount Cardwell—even if that means marrying and producing an heir. Surprising himself, Andrew decides to sponsor a young artist named Jeremy for the season, to help him find a patron. What he doesn’t anticipate is how well Jeremy fits in his bed…and his life.


Jeremy Leighton knows what it’s like to be a disappointment. The only son of a vicar, he’s refused to follow the path his father set for him, choosing his passion for art, instead. He accepts Andrew’s proposal, hoping to prove to his father—and himself—that he can succeed as an artist. After spending time with Andrew in and out of bed, Jeremy struggles not to fall for the damaged viscount, knowing the season will likely end in Andrew’s engagement. 


Between a meddling cousin, a widow on the hunt for a new husband, and their own doubts about the relationship, how can Andrew and Jeremy shed the expectations of others to find true happiness? 

Excerpt

Sitting in the carriage outside Boodle’s, Jeremy fiddled with his coat buttons. A cold sweat had started along the back of his neck. Talking about finding a patron was one matter. Actively looking for one was completely different. He looked over at Andrew. The man was the embodiment of fashionable: his jet black tailcoat was expertly tailored, the waistcoat beneath adding a touch of colour and pattern. Even his cravat was tied in a perfect Osbaldeston. Next to him, Jeremy looked like a simple country boy, wearing clothing his father had bought him when he entered Oxford. His stomach rolled, and he regretted eating such a large dinner.

“You’re going to be fine,” Andrew said.

Jeremy fastened his buttons for a third time.

“Just relax. Hands at your sides. Deep breaths. Follow my lead and stay by my side.”

Nodding, Jeremy let his hands drop. He waited until Andrew opened the carriage door before climbing out. The sight in front of him was formal and imposing, and Jeremy wanted nothing more than to climb back into the carriage. The ground floor exterior was a white stone, while the upper levels were brick. The showpiece of the building, though, was the large, domed window in the centre, trimmed by white, scalloped stone.

“Come on.”

Andrew clapped Jeremy on the shoulder and steered them toward the door. It felt rather like he was being marched to the gallows. As they passed through the columned entrance, Jeremy balled his fists at his sides.

“You have to relax, Jeremy,” Andrew murmured. “No one is going to come and escort you out. You are here as my guest, and therefore you belong here. Unclench your fists. Drop your shoulders. Remember, every man you meet here is a potential patron. Treat them as such. Be respectful, but be yourself.”

Jeremy nodded, forcing his shoulders down. “All right. Where to first, Cardwell?”

“Let’s start by finding friends.”

After a giving Jeremy a quick tour of the ground floor, Andrew led him up the steps, toward the salon. A number of men had already started to gather at the card tables, and Jeremy stayed as close to Andrew as he possibly could. A large man with a bulbous nose and beady eyes broke away from the rest and started toward the both of them, favouring his left leg.

“Thomas Stanhope,” Andrew whispered. “A member of the Commons and not someone you want to work with.”

“Cardwell!” The man’s voice was thin and raspy, and his gaze darted between Andrew and Jeremy. “Back just in time for the Season, I see. Is your uncle with you?”

Andrew’s lips pressed into a thin line. “Uncle Richard passed a few weeks ago. You sent a letter expressing your condolences.”

Stanhope’s eyes widened, then narrowed. “Did I? I…You must forgive me. My mind is not what it once was.”

“Of course.” The words came out clipped. “Stanhope, allow me to introduce my friend, Mr. Jeremy Leighton.”

A flicker of emotion crossed Stanhope’s face, though Jeremy couldn’t place it. Whatever it was made him uncomfortable.

“Leighton…” The man frowned, as though he were trying to piece together a puzzle.

“It’s a pleasure,” Jeremy said, shaking the man’s hand.

“The pleasure is mine.” Stanhope didn’t release his grip. “Tell me, how did you become acquainted with our Cardwell, here?”

The man’s palm was sweaty and Jeremy longed to pull away, but when he tried, Stanhope simply tightened his grip. “My father was friends with Lord Richard Cardwell. I’ve been acquainted with his family since birth.”

The confusion twisted into something like satisfaction, and Stanhope smirked, a gleam in his eye.

“I see. And how—”

“Cardwell!”

Jeremy looked over Stanhope’s shoulder to see a man taller than Andrew walking over. When he looked back at Stanhope, the man’s expression had soured.

“Excuse me. I look forward to seeing you again, Mr. Leighton.”

Stanhope walked away, his expression clouded. Andrew breathed a sigh of relief and the tension visibly eased.

“Perfect timing, Percy,” Andrew said. “I thought I would have to cut Jeremy’s hand off to get him away.”

“You looked like a caged animal.” The man embraced Andrew and then pulled away. “I wondered if you would be here for the Season. We placed bets on whether or not you would turn up. Thaddeus put you down as sitting out.”

Jeremy blinked. How could he be so crass?

“It’s as though he doesn’t know me at all,” Andrew shot back. He turned to Jeremy. “Lord Percival Beaumont, this is Mr. Jeremy Leighton. Percy and I attended Harrow and Oxford together.”

As Beaumont shook his hand, Jeremy could practically feel the man scrutinizing his appearance. “Pleasure to make your acquaintance, my lord,” he said, not quite meeting Beaumont’s gaze.

Beaumont gave him the same easy-going smile he gave Andrew. “Pleasure’s all mine. Please, call me Percy. Andrew, Thaddeus and Oliver are at May’s Buildings. I thought you might want to head over.”

Andrew looked to Jeremy. “What do you think? Would you rather visit the Eccentrics than stay here?”

Given the stuffy crowd and their interactions with Stanhope, Jeremy was more than eager to leave. “Yes. Could we go, please?”

“Lead the way, then, Percy.”

The trio headed back down the stairs and out the door. Rather than hailing a carriage, they set off on foot. The sun had almost completely set, and a slight chill had entered the air, but it wasn’t anything Jeremy’s coat couldn’t protect against. As they walked, Jeremy found himself trailing behind Andrew, with Percy at his side.

“So you went to school with Andrew, then?” Jeremy asked. It was easy to relax around Percy, who treated him with the same warmth he treated Andrew. Stanhope, with his odd behaviour, had had the opposite effect on him.

Percy nodded. “Our families run in the same circles, so of course I knew Andrew, but I didn’t become friends with him until university.” He lowered his voice. “We, ah, share similar interests.”

The meaning was clear. Already, Jeremy was starting to pick up on the cues and the codes. “Of course,” he said.

Part of him wanted to ask whether or not they had been together, but a much larger part didn’t care to know.

“I do believe I’ve stunned you. Forgive me, I’ve said too much.”

“Not at all. I simply…”

“I see.” Percy nodded slowly. He glanced ahead at Andrew before turning back to Jeremy. “I wouldn’t worry, if I were you. What happened between us was years ago, and I found we’re much better suited as friends. Relax.”

“I would have a greater chance at relaxing if everyone stopped encouraging me to do so,” Jeremy retorted.

“My apologies. I meant only that I would like to get to know you better, as a friend of Andrew’s.”

“Gossiping about me, are you?” Andrew’s voice came from up ahead.

“You only wish,” Percy replied. He looped his arm through Jeremy’s. “Tell me about your relationship with Andrew.”

“My father was close friends with Andrew’s uncle, Richard.”

Percy flashed him a smile. “That tells me nothing about you and Andrew.”

“There’s not much to say.” Jeremy licked his lips. “I’m an artist looking for a patron. Andrew saw my work and commissioned me to paint his portrait, and in return he offered to let me come with him to London.”

“And does he give you anything else in return?”

Anger flared in Jeremy’s veins and he let out a harsh breath. “I don’t think that’s any of your business.”

“I mean nothing by it,” Percy said gently. “As I said, I only wish to get to know you better. I know Andrew, and I only want the best for him. For you both. I know how difficult it can be to get close to him.”

“What do you know of his difficulties?”

“As one of his oldest friends, I believe a better question would be what do I not know of his difficulties?” The man regarded him with an air of suspicion before relaxing. “Come to my townhouse tomorrow afternoon. We can discuss the matter further there.”

“And what do I tell Andrew?”

“That he isn’t invited.” Percy laughed, his entire face lighting up. “He’ll hardly like it, but he will recover. Sometimes it is nice to remind him that he cannot control everything and everyone.”

Author Bio

Alyson Pearce is an American transplant currently living in London, where she works full time in publishing and as an author of M/M romances. She fell in love with romances after discovering her grandmother’s library and hasn’t looked back. As a member of the LGBT community, she believes that everyone deserves their chance at a happily ever after. In her spare time, Alyson enjoys cooking, reading, and shouting at contestants on Chopped. The Viscount and the Artist is her first novel.


 

 

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A MelanieM Review: The Viscount and the Artist (The Eccentrics #1) by Alyson Pearce

Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5

the-viscount-and-the-artistAndrew Cardwell is a man driven by duty to his country and to his family. After the death of his uncle, he’s determined to provide security and stability for his family as the new Viscount Cardwell—even if that means marrying and producing an heir. Surprising himself, Andrew decides to sponsor a young artist named Jeremy for the season, to help him find a patron. What he doesn’t anticipate is how well Jeremy fits in his bed…and his life.

Jeremy Leighton knows what it’s like to be a disappointment. The only son of a vicar, he’s refused to follow the path his father set for him, choosing his passion for art, instead. He accepts Andrew’s proposal, hoping to prove to his father—and himself—that he can succeed as an artist. After spending time with Andrew in and out of bed, Jeremy struggles not to fall for the damaged viscount, knowing the season will likely end in Andrew’s engagement.

Between a meddling cousin, a widow on the hunt for a new husband, and their own doubts about the relationship, how can Andrew and Jeremy shed the expectations of others to find true happiness?

After finishing The Viscount and the Artist (The Eccentrics #1) by Alyson Pearce I found I had mixed reactions to the story I had just concluded.  My first overall impression is that this was an enjoyable read.  The characters had just enough layers to them to make them interesting, the plot long and with enough obstacles thrown about to keep a reader wondering about Jeremy and Andrew’s future (such as it could be in those times) and the secondary cast supportive and fun.

Yes, I enjoyed this story.  I like historical romances.  I like them more when you get a feel for the times and cultural milestones in a story than one that pays lip service to the fact the the author says its a historical novel.  So where on the line does The Viscount and the Artist fit in?  Somewhere in the middle I’d say.  The dialog and conversations seem almost a little too modern in places while the author’s got Andrew recovering from the Battle of Barossa in 1811, the Peninsula, which is right.   The story bounces from spot on historical accuracy where the author’s research shows to areas in the plot, even at the beginning, where a Rector’s son doesn’t go fleeing from the advance’s of a Sodomite but agrees to move in (with his father’s unknowing approval) with him asap, that just astonish.  I wish I could say Pearce made a case for that with her  writing but in my opinion, the connection between the two men arrives later.

Much is made of Andrew’s inability to move forward from his PTSD and the loss of another lover.  I think its handled well but it goes on so long that the effect is to leave both the reader and Jeremy dangling at loose ends at the middle of the story for far too long a time.  For a while my attention started to wander and then the Widow arrived.  That brought back the idea that Andrew was the last of his line and what was going to happen to his family estate and so on.  That was a hugely important question back then when women were dependent upon relatives for their well being as well as their families futures.  Bringing in his cousins made that real and believable.  Nice touch.

More was to come, a villain, more angst, and a comeuppance or two.  You  expect those in historical novels.  They work here.

The HFN seemed as good as the times would allow.  It was a nice touch.   I enjoyed the idea of their future together even if I don’t think I found it very plausible given the times.  Although I’m not sure what other explanation the author could have arrived at.  So I’ll settle for the one she did leave us with.  It was enjoyable, I was happy along with the men.  It worked out well.

I think this was a first story for this author.  If so, I look forward to seeing what else she’s going to have  to author  for us.

Cover art is lovely and works for this story.

Book Details:
Kindle Edition, 299 pages
Published August 26th 2016 by Alyson Pearce
Original TitleThe Viscount and the Artist
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Edition LanguageEnglish
SeriesThe Eccentrics #1

Its Release Week for A Pirate’s Honor by Tricia Owens! (Excerpt)

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A Pirate’s Honor by Tricia Owens
Release Date October 4
Pre-Order  at

 

A Pirate’s Honor Blurb

When Jaime takes to the sea, it’s not for money or for pleasure: it’s for revenge. Leaving his peaceful life on land behind is the only step he can take when his future is brutally destroyed and his heart is shattered.

Captain Gareth West is a feared pirate with a reputation for kidnapping and ransoming men and women. He’s also known for bedding them so well that no one has a reason to complain. However, a terrible incident has left him scarred and reluctant to become involved with anyone ever again…until one day he comes upon a shipwreck.

When Jaime’s ship is attacked by pirates and he is left for dead, Gareth sees an opportunity to banish the ghosts from his head. He decides to take the young man on board and use him as the prostitute that Jaime pretends to be. But Gareth quickly determines that his attractive captive is not a whore despite his apparent eagerness. Though he responds to Gareth as no lover ever has, there’s a fire in him that worries Gareth. Jaime is a dangerous mystery, and Gareth knows it’s essential that he learn his secret.

But he’s caught off guard when Jaime’s secret turns out to be the very nightmare that Gareth is running from.

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A Pirate’s Honor Excerpt

“You’ll sleep like this with me every night,” West told him. “I maintain my word that none of my crew will touch you.”

“I hope you keep that word,” Jaime muttered. He was frustrated by West’s hold of his hand. It kept Jaime trapped against him. He tried lightly tugging. “I sleep better on my back.”

“Is that so? Then we’ll break you of that habit. Let’s begin now.”

To Jaime’s consternation, West released his hand only to roll onto his other side so that he faced Jaime. The pirate grinned playfully. “Hello, sweet. Better this way?”

Jaime scooted back, hating himself for the twitch of his cock now that the other man was near enough for their organs to touch. “No.”

He didn’t like West’s knowing grin. He didn’t like how charismatic the man was. If he attacked Jaime it would make everything so much easier and clearer, but West was content to tease and play with him. Jaime hated it. He hated himself.

“You’re shy. I like that,” West admitted.

“I’m not accustomed to sharing a bed with a notorious pirate captain.”

“You flatter my ego. I like that, too.” But West’s smile wavered a bit, and something haunted and uncertain softened the corners of his eyes. “Been some time since I’ve heard something sweet.”

Jaime wanted to scoff at the obvious lie, but he held his tongue.

“Believe it or not, you’re something special,” the pirate went on. He reached out and with his forefinger, traced a line down the bridge of Jaime’s nose. “You’re my treat.”

“For good behavior?” Jaime couldn’t help the derision that leaked into his voice.

Thankfully West didn’t appear to pick up on it. He tapped Jaime lightly on the tip of his nose. “Aye, you’re my reward. Turns out even loathsome pirates need something nice in their lives every so often.”

Again, a shade of regret, or perhaps self-recrimination, touched West’s face. It softened his angles and humanized him. Jaime wished he could unsee it.

A Pirate’s Honor Info:

M/M Historical Romance
Standalone
High heat level
27k words

Release date October 4th, currently available for pre-order: http://amzn.to/2dabUHU

Tricia Owens Bio

Tricia writes m/m romance, ménage, urban fantasy, and paranormal romance. An avid traveler, she has visited over 80 countries and now makes her home in Las Vegas.

You can contact the author at:

A Caryn Review: Silences of Fallen Stars by Vivian Dean

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

silences-of-the-fallen-starsThis novella was set in Nebraska in the late 1960’s.  Although elsewhere in the country the Stonewall riots were happening, and hippies were experiencing free love, in the heartland things were much less progressive.  It was certainly not a place conducive to romance for gay men.

Jim and Ronnie were friends for most of their lives, and in high school they became lovers, but  secretly, and innocently.  Jim was lucky enough to be able to afford college, so he went to Omaha after graduation, and Ronnie stayed home.  Pride, and shame, led to a falling out, and then Ronnie was sent to Vietnam.  The story actually begins when Ronnie comes back home, wounded, and Jim is back at his grandfather’s farm after falling short of everyone’s expectations.

I love a good hurt/comfort storyline, and this book did it very well.  In the 5 years they were apart, Ronnie and Jim became men, and left the naïve highschool lovers behind.  They were both changed by    loss and heartache, and in Ronnie’s case, physical injury and disability.  Coming back together was not automatically a given, and Ms. Dean did an excellent job of showing the fragility of their new relationship, and how they eventually found their way back to each other.

The historical details were entered unobtrusively, but clearly enough that the impact of the times and the location on the men’s personalities and actions made perfect sense.  I am so thankful that I didn’t see any glaring anachronisms that bother me so much in poorly done historicals!  Overall, a sweet read, fairly low angst, with relatable characters and a realistic HFN.  Definitely recommended.

Cover art is lovely and eye catching.

Sales Links

JMS Books LLC

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Book Details:

Kindle Edition, 69 pages
Published September 3rd 2016 by JMS Books LLC (first published April 19th 2015)
ASIN B01KPNUMEU
Edition Language English

Jump Into the Past with Gryffon Hall by Alexis Duran (author guest post, excerpt and giveaway)

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Title: Gryffon Hall

Author: Alexis Duran

Release Date: August 30th 2016

Genre: MM Romance, Fantasy

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Why Fantasy? by Alexis Duran

I’ve always loved fantasy; reading it, writing it, and breathing it.  I grew up immersed in traditional fairy tales, from Mother Goose, the Brothers Grimm, Hans Christen Anderson, and The Thousand and One Arabian Nights to a really scary collection of traditional German tales in a big book from my grandmother.  I can still picture the illustrations from that book as if I’d just seen them yesterday. These were the stuff my dreams (and a few nightmares) were made of.  Those dark forests and remote castles were also my refuge when my parents’ marriage disintegrated and—much like a character in one those tales—I was thrust into a suddenly unfamiliar new world where all the rules had changed. While other books I read quickly faded from memory, those tales of magic and myth remained most vivid in my imagination. 

When I became a serious, adult-type writer, under the pressure of serious, adult-type professors, I tried my hand at non-magical, adult-type storytelling, intent on writing about “real life”. What I didn’t realize was that I’d abandoned my authentic self by trying to follow the rules put down by people who didn’t “get” fantasy and belittled it because the stories weren’t “real” (kind of forgetting that all fiction is fantasy to a certain degree).  It was only when I allowed myself to indulge in my literary passion for fantastical worlds and characters that I rediscovered my true voice and an artistic perspective that happens to like viewing all the twists and turns of reality through a magical lens.

Why am I so drawn to Magic? What can I say? With magic there’s no limit on the imagination, nothing is impossible, the stakes are enormous and the rewards, well, fantastic. It’s fun and frightening at the same time.  Yes, it’s an escape, but it’s also a way of magnifying and exposing the deepest of human depths. What reveals our humanity more than facing the inhuman and being challenged by powers that seem so much greater than ourselves?

In the case of Gryffon Hall I revisited those old fairy tales for inspiration. Frolicking in that world was a definite delight.  The plot is loosely based on Beauty and the Beast, and I had a wild time recasting the story as a gay romance, dragging in creatures from all over the realm of fairy, and generally wreaking havoc with a beloved classic.  I hope to do it again soon with an m/m version of Snow White. Stay tuned!

BLURB

Born the useless fourth son of the Lord of Glimmerveen, Wryler dreams of getting married and escaping the rustic confines of his father’s castle. A wealthy merchant’s son seems to hold the key to Wryler’s safe if somewhat dreary future. However, the arrival of a mysterious stranger on the eve of Wryler’s betrothal sends his plans into disarray and Wryler finds himself traded off in marriage to one of the most notorious rogues in the land.

Is Lord Aeric Rouchet the scoundrel he appears to be, or is he something much worse? Separated from his family and thrust into a strange and dangerous new life at the foreboding Gryffon Hall, Wryler must unravel the secret of his husband’s shadowed life and defeat the curse which threatens not only his growing affection for the barbarian in his bed, but the lives of everyone the Lord of Gryffon Hall is sworn to protect.

Buy Links: Amazon | Loose ID | ARe

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31722038-gryffon-hall?ac=1&from_search=true

EXCERPT

Wryler squinted up at a velvet sky recently cleared of clouds. It would be a good night for peering through his telescope, if only the stars would stop swarming about so.

“Lovely night after so much rain.”

Wryler lowered his chin and stood up straight. The voice came from the shadows toward the stables, followed by the sloshing of boots through puddles. With a few more strides Aeric Rouchet emerged from the gloom, that damnable grin on his face.

“Yes. Quite,” Wryler said, “The dining hall got so hot.”

“It did, didn’t it?” Rouchet kept walking, and Wryler feared the man might plow straight into him. He braced himself for impact, but Rouchet stopped a few inches shy of contact. “The fresh air is bracing, but it hasn’t done much to cool the flush in your cheeks.”

“It’s a curse. The blushing,” Wryler said, and damn if his blood didn’t flame even hotter.

“I find it quite becoming.” Rouchet rested his palm against the wall next to Wryler’s head and leaned in. “Is it only the quest for fresh air that keeps you from your comfy bed, Sir Wryler?”

“Yes. What else would it…would I…?”

“Oh, I don’t know. I noticed the young Mr. Arsburry giving you the eye all night.”

“Him?” Wryler snorted. “There’s nothing going on between us, I assure you.”

“Glad to hear it. I thought perhaps you were looking for company.”

“I weren’t. I wasn’t.” Accursed wine!

“But now?” Rouchet placed a finger under Wryler’s chin and lifted it slightly. His looming presence enveloped Wryler in warmth and the smell of leather. Rouchet blocked out the sky, the stars replaced by his gleaming eyes. Wryler shrank back against the wall. He wasn’t being held in place, but he might as well have been. He couldn’t move and didn’t much want to.

Rouchet swooped in for a kiss, his wine-moistened lips covering and consuming Wryler’s. He was surprisingly gentle, this barbarian, his tongue easing into Wryler’s mouth slowly but firmly.

What’s happening? What’s going on here, exactly? Men other than Lennox had kissed Wryler. Large, rough men. Stable hands. Traveling knights. Many had attempted to steal more than a kiss, and while pleasant, Wryler wasn’t often tempted for more. But now, now he sensed Rouchet hesitating, waiting for a sign from Wryler, for permission to unleash the lust he obviously held back.

This really isn’t acceptable behavior. But Rouchet would soon be gone, and they’d never see each other again. What harm could come of a little kiss?

Wryler responded, pushing back with his tongue, his body arching against Rouchet’s.

Rouchet growled and plunged in harder, driving Wryler against the wall. A cascade of tiny explosions fired beneath Wryler’s skin, and he was instantly and embarrassingly hard. It had never been like this with Lennox. Wryler always required coaxing and coercing. Now he felt as if he could be the one in charge, tearing at Rouchet’s clothing and demanding to taste every inch of the lord’s enormous body.

Wryler kept his hands by his sides and balled into fists, not trusting himself to touch Rouchet with more than lips.

Rouchet had no such restraint and ran one large hand down Wryler’s back all the way to his buttocks, which he squeezed hard. Wryler gasped, and Rouchet seized him with both hands and pulled him in tight, crushing Wryler’s poor swollen cock against his unyielding thigh. The pressure felt too good. Wryler wanted to climb Rouchet, to mount this monster of a man and ride him like….like… Words fled him as he cried out for this unexpected delight.

Rouchet broke out of the kiss but kept his mouth close to Wryler’s ear.

“My dear Wryler, thank you for your answer, but I fear if I keep at it I won’t be able to stop.”

“Wait. Why?”

“You’re drunk, and although appearances may suggest otherwise, I am nothing if not a gentleman.”

“I am not!” Wryler insisted, weaving as Rouchet released him.

“Sweetly, deliciously drunk.” Rouchet ran a finger along Wryler’s jaw, then stepped back and bowed. “A good night to you, Sir Wryler, and may you arrive safely at your rooms. I’d escort you, but I’m afraid I’m more the monster in the shadows this night than the knight by your side.” He sighed deeply. “No, I’m afraid I’m more likely to sling you over my shoulder and carry you to my bed than see you safely tucked away in your own.”

“I wouldn’t mind,” Wryler said. “Not much anyway.”

“You’re too kind.” Rouchet bowed again. “Sleep well.” He turned and stalked off into the night, vanishing as suddenly as he’d appeared.

For a moment, Wryler wondered if he’d dreamed the entire thing. His body certainly didn’t think so.

 

Giveaway: Win a ebook copy of To Catch a Threeve by Alexis Duran and a $10 Loose ID gift card

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About the Author

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Alexis Duran bio

Alexis Duran was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. At the University of Oregon, her fascination with people and relationships led her to major in Sociology, but her main love has always been creative writing.  She’s worked in museums, finance, film production and for several performing arts organizations. Her favorite job so far has been inventorying the collection of a haunted Victorian Mansion.  She is the author of the Masters and Mages and Edge of Night m/m fantasy series as well as several stand-alone romances.  Her fiction has won several awards including the Rupert Hughes Award from the Maui Writers Conference and First Runner Up from Love Romances Cafe. She lives with one dog and four and a half cats.  She is always working on the next novel and has several new ideas brewing at all times.

You can connect with Alexis at www.alexisduranblog.com, http://twitter.com/AlexisSDuran. http://www.facebook.com/alexis.duran.18294 and https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8332457.Alexis_Duran

Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter

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An Ali Review: Perilous by Cari Z

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

PerilousIn 1803, England declares war on France, staking the fates of two mighty empires against one another. Thousands of men serve in the British navy, hungry for distinction in the battle against Bonaparte.

One of them, Lieutenant Thomas Williams, thinks he knows what he wants out of life: prize money at sea, a career of decent note, and the means to maintain his independence when he leaves the navy. What he finds is service under Captain Christopher Knightly: a tactical genius, inveterate charmer, and the youngest son of a wealthy noble house.

Their unexpected and perilous love affair is a gamble against the odds, for in a time of war, nothing is sure to last. If the French don’t tear them apart, one slip in front of the wrong eyes or ears might. When the demands of Christopher’s family take him from Thomas’s side, he thinks it might be the best thing for his captain. Little does Tom realize just how far Christopher will go to return to him, and when life takes a turn for the worse, how much further he will go to save him.

I really liked the setting of this book.  It was a different time period than I’ve read in historicals before and the atmosphere was done so well I could easily picture the ships and the sailors on their missions.  The aspect that was lacking for me was the romance.  I never felt the connection between the two men.  The story was told from Thomas’ point of view and I connected with him much more.  Christopher didn’t feel like an equal character to me, more like a supporting character, and in fact I didn’t really care for him that much.  I never felt his love of Thomas until the very end of the book.
Overall I thought this was an average read.  The rich world building and unique setting make it something that you should check out if you’re a fan of historicals.
Cover:  I love the cover.  I think it’s gorgeous and it totally captures the plot/mood of the book.

Sales Links:  NineStar Press | Amazon

Book Details:
ebook, 129 pages
Published May 9th 2016 by NineStar Press
ISBN139781911153504
Edition LanguageEnglish

A MelanieM Review: Sweet William by Dianne Hartsock

Rating: 2.75 stars out of 5

Sweet WilliamWilliam Wilkerson leads the life of the privileged rich. Head of his father’s shipping business, he indulges to his heart’s content in the pleasures of the flesh with Boston’s finest young men.

That is, until he reunites with Fredrick: his former tutor and the one man who captured his heart.

But William’s father has declared Fredrick off limits. And Fredrick, himself, believes he’s beneath the attention of the Wilkerson heir.

After having lost his current pupil to graduation, and with no prospects of a replacement, Frederick is homeless, hungry, and easy pickings for the men on the docks.

When Frederick is shanghaied into service on William’s own merchant ship, will William discover his plight in time to rescue him?

Sweet William is an short historical romance by Dianne Hartsock that is simply a sweet, quick lovers reunited story set in Boston in 1894, but sometimes manages to lose the tone and feel of the times its set in.

The blurb above pretty much sets out the entire story which Hartsock fills in for 48 pages, including lots of sexy encounters, some sexual assaults, and a romance that while sweet, never felt as thought it had much depth.

The story is like a pretty bauble as they would say back then, lovely if you don’t have too high expectations.  William, the heir, has been pretty much a man slut, behaving recklessly with men in an age where that could lead to jail if not a hanging (that’s not quite addressed here).  Frederick the teacher (only a few years older than William) is cast off, finds another job, loses that and somehow remains naive, longing for his first love, a bit of a “lost bunny” of a character with no apparent self preservation instincts.

The characterizations and back history just didn’t have enough time in the story to come together.  Or perhaps it was how they were presented in the story, but whatever it was, they lost a certain amount of chemistry and connection because it felt disconnected in the shortness of the tale here.

Yes, the villain was perhaps the final downfall.  He was evil incarnate in the “old fashioned” way.  His actions towards Frederick were vile, yes.  But there was just something about Frederick’s predicament that didn’t seem believable enough, that what followed lost their reality as well.  He  came away feeling more like Snidely Whiplash then a viable human predator.

And none of the above addresses the times the story was set in, which I only got a small feeling for.  In short,  maybe my expectations for an historical romance are set high, higher than this story reached.  Others might just overlook my issues, and enjoy the romance for the lovers reunited PWP short novelette it is.  I’ll leave the decision up to you.

Cover Art by: Adrian Rafail.  I love this cover. Its charming, the tone is perhaps as is the character.

Sales Links:  Wayward Ink Press |Amazon US |Amazon UK | Amazon AU | Amazon DE | ARe

Book Details:

ebook, 48 pages
Published April 22nd 2016 by Wayward Ink Publishing
ISBN139781925222876
Edition LanguageEnglish
settingBoston, Massachusetts (United States)