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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books & Eye Candy

Sharing our love of M/M Romance

Bonus Material

Barely Regal (Rosavia Royals Book 5) by E. Davies: Exclusive Author Interview, Blog Tour, New Release Review and Giveaway

July 15, 2020 by Denise

A bratty boy prince needs: a firm but fair Daddy.

Prince Renford is a royal brat. Nineteen and last in line for the throne, Wren hates his made-up job: Commander of Roses. Good thing his long-time valet has a firm hand—if only Wren could tempt him to break all palace protocol and use it.

Thom Pierce is sixteen years older. Old enough to know he should ignore his prince’s less-than-subtle flirtation. He’s been burned by a higher-ranked boy before. His job and reputation are at stake if the palace catches a scandal unfolding under their noses.

Wren needs the part of Thom that he’s kept locked away for years. If the young prince wants to be taken as seriously as his older brothers, he has to grow up fast. Thom’s rules could help Wren become the man Thom knows he can be in time for the Royal Ball… or they could attract the very attention that forces them apart forever.

Welcome to the tiny European country of Rosavia, where roses ramble over alpine slopes and princes fall for the men of their dreams. Every Rosavia Royals book happens simultaneously, so books can be read on their own, or in any order… but keep an eye out for familiar faces around the palace!

Amazon – Kindle Unlimited

How did you become a part of this project/world?

Funny story, actually! The covers came first—they started out as premade covers from our wonderful cover designer, AngstyG. The time zones happened to work out perfectly: I was on vacation and Helen (HJ Welch) was awake late, so we saw them straight away. Helen said, “We HAVE to do an MM royalty shared universe!” and that was it!

We’d already learned how to build a shared world while working together to run Men of Hidden Creek (I herd the cats and set up and Helen cheerleads). So we quickly set about recruiting our shared beta reader, editor, etc, and reaching out to authors as we started collaboratively building the world of Rosavia. This time, we’ve really focused on getting all the authors to beta-read for each other as we wrote so that we could nail as many crossovers as possible. And I’ve also been the main series organizer post-draft-completion, so I feel like I’ve been living in Rosavia since late February! It’s very weird but incredibly exciting to finally share it with the rest of the world.

Where did your story’s inspiration come from?

The title of Barely Regal came to me first; I knew I wanted to write the story of the youngest prince, and as a youngest child myself, I knew that he was going to be a feisty little rebel who hadn’t yet learned the importance of his own duties. Muddy little Renford (or Wren, for short) came to life in a flash. I also knew from the very start that I wanted to write his valet, Thom Pierce, experiencing a conflict of interest between his palace duties and the pull he feels to fulfil Wren’s needs.

Also, on the cover, Wren has mud streaked across his neck. I decided that he’s learning to garden, and that the roses in Rosavia represent each family. Each royal family member has their own rose created for them at birth, so when they marry, another rose is created by crossing the couple’s varieties. Of course, when you’re marrying someone you were never expected to end up with, this creates complications…

How did you create your Prince?

Once I realized that Wren had to be the youngest prince, his bratty, flirtatious nature was obvious. And every brat needs a Daddy! The obvious man for the job was Thom, the quiet valet who has guided and steered him for the last decade. These two just came to life at the same moment, because they’re so made-for-each-other.

I really wanted to tell the story of Wren growing into his duties. Through the course of the story, Wren starts off feeling like he’s not taken seriously. I think last-born kids can relate to that feeling of being babied for too long, and it’s not helped by his own bratty nature! But luckily someone’s there to see what’s immaturity and what’s Wren’s need for a strong guiding hand. Over the story, Wren comes to realize that he’s actually playing an important role in telling the royal family’s story, and his unique talents matter.

Five books by five authors about five different brothers who are part of a monarchy in the fictional country of Rosavia. You’ll see this is book 5, but all 5 books occur simultaneously, culminating with the Royal Ball that is celebrating 500th birthday of the country. So they can be read in any order because they are all happily ever afters and those HEAs are revealed at the end of each book. So book 1 reveals the that yes, prince 5 did in fact end up with his valet.

I’ve read three of the books so far, and this one remains my favorite. I think partly because the characters get into a specific type of relationship, congruent with their romantic relationship, and I think it was well done without being too serious. And really, Wren is just kind of funny. He is 19 and acts 19. Which I think is awesome, even with the monarchy. He is kind of awkward trying to flirt and be sexy with his valet who is not only 16 years older than him, but has also been his valet for a long time. He has seen Wren from a child at his worse to a burgeoning man. And while he tries to stay away, he just can’t.

Add in some crazy cats, blueberry lube, a serious rose garden and very accepting parents, this was a fun book to read. I suspended all belief for this sweet, romantic, sexy fairy tale of a series. You should too.

4 pieces of eye candy

Book 1: Up for Heir By Stella Starling

A playboy heir needs a man to marry, right now.

After spending half his life dodging his duty to the crown, the rebel heir to the Rosavian throne has been told in no uncertain terms that it’s time to settle down. Crown Prince Leopold has one month and a vetted list of suitable princesses, and he will announce his engagement during Rosavia’s Royal Ball. But Leo’s got his own ideas about what really suits him…

Royal Librarian Edvin Blom is good at not attracting attention. Shy and self-conscious of his stutter, he’s used to being overlooked and more than happy to stay in the background. At least, until the crown prince with a wild reputation shows up at the library’s new opening and decides to flirt with Edvin’s sister…

Edvin isn’t at all what Leo thought he wanted, but turns out to be everything he can’t stay away from. Edvin’s been burned by falling for someone out of his league before, though. And believing that Leo has really fallen for him? While Edvin’s drowning in his own doubts and insecurities, that might prove impossible… unless love gives them both a reason to come up for air.

Amazon – Kindle Unlimited
Goodreads | BookBub

 

Book 2: Reign or Shine By HJ Welch

A secret prince needs a lost tourist to save.

Prince Cassander is on vacation from his overdeveloped sense of duty. While hiding out as simply ‘Cas’ in the Rosavian capital, he rescues a gorgeous, distressed American tourist. Matty has no idea that Cas is second in line to the throne. And with only two weeks together to explore the sparks between them, he doesn’t need to ever find out.

New Yorker Matty Doyle is a fish out of water, taking care of his niece and mending his broken heart. When Cas rescues him, the handsome stranger coaxes Matty out of his shell and he throws caution to the wind. Nobody knows him here. Would it hurt to live a little for once?

But a prince can’t stay secret in his own country for long. Cas would give anything to protect Matty from reality, but how can this fantasy together continue when they belong in different worlds?

Amazon – Kindle Unlimited
Goodreads | BookBub

 

Book 3: Throne Together By Zoe Dawn

A pining prince needs: a second chance at love.

Prince Julius has only ever wanted one man. Raised alongside Prince Dante of Thedes, the two were inseparable until their unspoken mutual attraction ignited into a single passionate encounter. Convinced that it ruined their friendship, Julius retreated to his duties in Rosavia, where he daydreams of another chance to win Dante’s heart.

After four years apart, fate brings Prince Julius back to Thedes. He offers Dante a coveted invitation: return to the Rosavian palace for ten days, and be his plus-one to the Royal Ball of the century. Before long, they realize one night of passion wasn’t enough, and they can’t imagine losing each other again.

As the clock ticks down to the ball, Julius catches wind of Dante’s family meddling, and he must decide if their feelings are real or if they’ve both been played. Were they always meant for each other, or is it all an illusion that will melt away at midnight?

Amazon – Kindle Unlimited
Goodreads | BookBub

 

Book 4: In His Court by Max Rowan

A spy prince needs a man who sees through his disguise.

Prince Benedict is not what he seems. His image as a lazy playboy is carefully constructed to hide the truth. Trained since childhood to become Rosavia’s top spy, he spends his life in disguise—and danger—to protect his country. Nobody sees the loneliness in his heart.

Felix Wright is a genius with four degrees, no real-world experience, and a top-secret job… and he’s never even been kissed. A lifetime of being alienated for his most valuable assets has left him reluctant to trust the charming prince who thrusts him into fieldwork for the very first time.

When the Crown Jewels are stolen two weeks before the royal ball, it’s their job to save the country’s reputation. Benedict helps Felix believe in himself, while Felix slowly coaxes the real prince out of hiding. But can they find the jewels and rescue the most priceless treasures of all: each other?

Amazon – Kindle Unlimited
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Rosavia Royals Out Now!

Come join the fun on the Royals Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/RosaviaRoyals/
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E. Davies grew up moving constantly, which taught him what people have in common, the ways relationships are formed, and the dangers of “miscellaneous” boxes. As a young gay author, Ed prefers to tell feel-good stories that are brimming with hope.

He writes full-time, goes on long nature walks, tries to fill his passport, drinks piña coladas on the beach, flees from cute guys, coos over fuzzy animals (especially bees), and is liable to tilt his head and click his tongue if you don’t use your turn signal.

E. Davies Links:

Website | Newsletter
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Amazon Author Page | Goodreads | BookBub

Stella Starling Links:
Website | Newsletter
Facebook | Facebook Group
Amazon Author Page | Goodreads | BookBub

HJ Welch/Helen Juliet Links:
Website | Newsletter
Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Facebook Group
Amazon Author Page | Goodreads | BookBub

Zoe Dawn Links:
Website | Newsletter
Amazon Author Page | Goodreads | BookBub

Max Rowan (formerly Max Hawthorn) Links:
Amazon Author Page | Goodreads | BookBub

Filed Under: Author Interview, Blog Tour, Bonus Material, Book Review, Giveaway, New Release Review, Quick Reviews, Release Day Review, TCO Exclusives, TCO Reviewer: Erin Tagged With: 4 stars, author, blog tour, Blog Tours, book, Book Reviews, exclusive, gay, giveaway, Giveaways, guest post, lgbtq, m/m romance, mmromance, new release, review, romance

Tricks and Bids by Jacqueline Grey: Exclusive Author Guest Post, Excerpt, New Release Review and Giveaway

February 27, 2020 by Denise

Today, we have something exciting for you! Jacqueline Grey is here with her new release, Tricks and Bids. And she brought not only an excerpt and giveaway, but a fantastic story about when the story was first published, her uncle, and the Christmas she won’t ever forget. We can all imagine that relative who will look at us and say “we need to talk”…Enjoy the guest post, and make sure you sign up for the giveaway!

 

When Michael Nole propositions Dillon Spade outside a BDSM club one evening, all he is looking for is a potential client and a little kink. He gets much more than he bargained for. As a prostitute, Michael enjoys sex but keeps an emotional distance between himself and the men he sleeps with. His priority is to keep himself safe, but after a night in Dillon’s bed, he finds the line between enjoyment and occupation blurring.

Dillon hasn’t taken another man home since his previous lover passed away six years ago, but there is something about Michael that calls to his inner Dominant in a way he cannot resist. His instincts want to claim the boy even as he reminds himself that he is only paying Michael for temporary company.

Their relationship may have started as a business transaction, but it’s difficult to remain professional when breaking all the rules.

Title:  Tricks and Bids

Series: Suit of Harte’s, Book One

Author: Jacqueline Grey

Publisher:  NineStar Press

Release Date: February 17, 2020

Heat Level: 3 – Some Sex

Pairing: Male/Male

Length: 20300

Genre: Contemporary, LGBTQIA+, BDSM, romance, contemporary, gay, sex industry, prostitution

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I am so happy to be here.  Thank you for having me.

 

A Christmas I’ll Never Forget

When Tricks and Bids first came out in 2014 it was paramount that my mother and my uncle hear about it.  They were the biggest supporters, so how could I not tell them?  The thing is, how do you tell your dearest uncle that his precious niece has written a very kinky, very steamy romance novel?

Well, I did, and he gave me his usual reply when I ramble on about interests he doesn’t understand: “Ok.” The genre was beyond him, but he was proud of my accomplishment and happy for me which is what mattered. It wasn’t until Christmas Eve dinner of that year that I learned just how supportive my uncle was of me.

The first thing my uncle said when he arrived for dinner that night was “We need to talk.” I’m sure that when any parental figure says those words, no matter what their age, the person they’re talking to will immediately think that shit hit the fan or they’re in trouble.  Attempting to remain calm I said, “Ok, do you want to talk now?  Is everything all right?”  He reassured me that everything was fine, and we would talk later, but he followed that up with repeating “we need to talk” so the reassurance didn’t stay for long.

We sat down for dinner and everyone began eating and chatting.  During a quiet moment over the antipasto my uncle announced, “I read a book.”  Now the thing you need to know is that my uncle is not a reader.  The number of books he’s read for pleasure in his life could probably be counted on one hand.  Therefore, I was shocked, and I asked, “What book?”  Mom got it before me.  As soon as I heard her “oh” I understood what book my uncle was referring to.  All he said was “we need to talk.”

There I was sitting at the table feeling like my father had just read my diary, but I’m a big girl, and I have always been honest whenever people ask me questions. I’m a terrible liar and I’m blunt so I figure it’s easier to tell the truth than come up with something false, so I said, “whatever you want to know, I’ll tell you.”

He said, “I don’t think I want to know.”

The main thing he was wondering was how the little niece he’d watch grow up suddenly knew about things like BDSM, wax play and gay sex.  I told him I learned most of it through books and television.

“You had to say ‘mostly’?” was his reply.

Like I said, I’m blunt and honest.

I give my uncle props for making it through my book.  For not being a reader and to read something that was way outside his comfort zone was an immense show of support.  He’s purchased the other books in the trilogy but hasn’t worked up the nerve to read them.  I told him that’s fine.  He should read Ghost House instead.  There’s no kink and the only sex is at the end.  If necessary, he could skip that part.

If you’re into reading (unlike my uncle) and you like your romance kinky then look no further.  Tricks and Bids is back on the shelves and will soon be followed by the second and third books in the Suit of Harte’s series.

“Hey. Wanna play?”

Dillon glanced up to find a young man leaning against the hood of his car. At Dillon’s pointed look, he took a step back, so he no longer touched the automobile.

“What gave you the impression I want company?”

“You obviously didn’t find what you were looking for in there” came the reply with a nod back at Harte, the BDSM club Dillon had just exited. “If you had, you wouldn’t be leaving this early.”

“And you think you’re what I want?”

The boy shrugged.

Dillon peered at him. He appeared to be in his midtwenties, fit and tight in the way Dillon remembered being before he’d hit thirty-three. He was shorter than Dillon with dark-brown hair long enough to grip: two things Dillon liked in a submissive. There was something familiar about him as well. If Dillon wasn’t mistaken, he’d seen him heading into a nearby motel a few times and never with the same “date.”

“Are you a prostitute?” Dillon asked.

The blunt question evoked an expression of surprise, but it rapidly morphed into a smooth smile. “‘Prostitute’ sounds like a job. It’s more of a hobby.”

“One you get paid for.”

“It’s a good hobby.”

Dillon cracked a smile. “How much do you charge?”

“Depends on what you want to do.”

That was reasonable enough, and if he’d been waiting outside Harte, he must know to expect kink and charge for it accordingly. “Are you clean?”

“Yes, and condoms are necessary and at your expense.”

“Expense? That sounds like a job term to me,” Dillon teased.

He considered his options. The boy was right. He hadn’t found what he was searching for in the club, and he held no illusions he ever would. Even after six years, he couldn’t help comparing every submissive he came across to the lover he’d lost. Harte called him a stubborn old goat, but the thought of building a relationship from scratch exhausted him. It was so hard to find someone whose rhythms and tastes fit with his own. Granted, the club was designed for negotiation and mutually desired play, but that was for the scenes that took place there. What about the rest of the time?

Dillon didn’t want a casual play partner. That did nothing more for him than scratch an itch that would return in no time. He wanted someone he could build a life with. He wasn’t going to find that with a prostitute, but something about the stranger brought forth yearnings Dillon hadn’t felt in years. He could take the boy home with him, indulge in what he wanted in his own territory and under his own rules. It would be a purchased illusion, but it beat going home alone and sleeping in an empty bed.

“Come on,” he said, pulling his car door open and unlocking the other side. “We’ll talk details when we get to my place.”

“Your place? Don’t you mean a hotel?”

“My place,” repeated Dillon. “I don’t do quick fucks.”

I am not totally sure if this is a first time author or not. The dedication at the front made me think so, but there are several other books with authors of the same name. So, I am going to go with first time author. Well done.

I don’t always love novellas or shorts, unless it is an established couple I know. I just feel like so much is sacrificed for a shorter story. I like to sink my teeth in while getting to know these characters. And I did.

Mike (Michael) is a prostitute. BY CHOICE. This was actually really refreshing. Some people actually choose to be a sex worker. Their reasons are their own. But for Michael, it’s because he makes good money, can choose his sex partners and hours AND he has fun.

Dillon is a Dom without a sub. And he isn’t super broody or anything. He knows what he wants and he isn’t willing to compromise with a quick scene in a club. And even though he has to pay Michael, he is getting what he wants on his turf.

Their connection is quick and intense, but not rushed. It didn’t feel like an instalove to me at all. Instalust yes. Their scenes are H.O.T.

This is obviously the start of a series and I definitely want to read more.

4 pieces of eye candy

Jacqueline Grey currently lives on an island on the east coast of the United States. She spends her time outside her day job juggling her many interests which include reading, writing and drinking tea. She loves M/M romance, usually focusing on stories that include BDSM themes to one degree or another.

Jacqueline has always been driven by characters. She loves a good plot, but it’s the characters that pull her into a story. She loves romance and believes everyone has a right to be happy. She enjoys seeing her characters find that happiness for themselves.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

http://jacquelinegrey.com/

https://www.facebook.com/JacquelineGreyBooks

https://twitter.com/jacqueline_grey

https://www.pinterest.com/Jacqueline_Grey/

 

Tour Schedule

2/24     MM Good Book Reviews        http://mmgoodbookreviews.com

2/25     The Blogger Girls        http://thebloggergirls.com/

2/26     Love Bytes Reviews     http://lovebytesreviews.com/

2/27     Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy       https://twochicksobsessed.com/

2/28     BFD Book Blog http://bfdbookblog.net/

 

One lucky winner will receive a $10.00 NineStar Press Gift Code!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Filed Under: Author Guest Post, Blog Tour, Bonus Material, Book Excerpt, Book Review, Giveaway, New Release Review, Quick Reviews, Release Day Review, TCO Exclusives, TCO Reviewer: Erin, Uncategorized Tagged With: 4 stars, author, bdsm, blog tour, Blog Tours, book, Book Excerpts, Book Reviews, excerpt, exclusive, gay, giveaway, Giveaways, guest post, Jacqueline Grey, lgbtq, m/m romance, mmromance, new release, Nine Star Press, release day review, review, romance

The Leprechaun Next Door by Elizabeth Coldwell: Exclusive Guest Post, Blog Tour, and Giveaway

March 18, 2019 by Denise

Thank you to Elizabeth Coldwell for stopping by today and bringing an exclusive Guest Post for her new book, The Leprechaun Next Door. Johnny is a little naughty, so you know I like him. 🙂 Congrats to Elizabeth on the new release, and make sure you leave a comment, and you could win a copy of the book!

Happiness might be waiting at the end of the rainbow, but will it come with a price?

Devon’s down on his luck—he’s lost his job and discovered his boyfriend is cheating on him. His neighbor, Johnny, is not only cute, he also has a big secret: he’s a leprechaun with a pot of gold… and the ability to grant wishes.

Can Devon wish his way out of the hole he’s found himself in? He’d like a new job, some revenge on his lying ex, and maybe even love. Johnny can give him what he wants, but it won’t come for free… or in the ways Devon expects. Can he trust a sexy leprechaun to help him make a new start and wish himself into the arms of the man of his dreams?

Title: The Leprechaun Next Door
Author: Elizabeth Coldwell
Release Date: March 15, 2019
Category: Fantasy
Pages: 145

Amazon US

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Dreamspinner Press

Love That Leprechaun

When you’re thinking up the paranormal love interest in an urban fantasy novel, a leprechaun might not be high on the list. Other, more popular creatures definitely have the edge when it comes to being a supernatural bad boy. Vampires are a given – they’re dark, brooding and danger lurks behind their handsome, sophisticated façade. Shifters may be charming, but they could unleash their animal side at any moment. As for elves, just think Orlando Bloom in the Lord of the Rings films and it’s easy to see why they have their many admirers. But leprechauns?

It’s fair to say the leprechaun suffers from an image problem. They’re always depicted as no more than three feet high and grumpy, dressed in a green suit, buckled hat and knee britches, and almost homicidally attracted to protecting their stash of gold. If you’re American, you may also find it hard to separate them from their caricature on a breakfast cereal packet (Lucky Charms have never reached the UK in any quantity, which means an awful lot of jokes on The Simpsons passed us by over the years…). But the fact they’ve never really been regarded as sex symbols means there’s a lot more scope to get creative, and unleash a side of them the reader has never considered. Part of the fun of writing The Leprechaun Next Door was riffing on that unflattering image and the opportunity it gives Johnny, the leprechaun of the title, to hide in plain sight in a world where paranormal beings exist alongside humans – if only you know where to look.

Leprechauns are, as I’m sure you’re aware, one of the staple figures in Irish mythology. Stories about their misdeeds date back to mediaeval times, though their green clothing is a more modern invention. When I started researching them for the novel, this being one of those books where the title came first and everything else followed, I discovered one of the alternative spellings of their name was lubrican. And if that doesn’t make you think of sex, what does?

So as I worked on creating Johnny, I gave him most of the main traits of the classic leprechaun. He’s protective of his gold, which is safely stashed away from prying eyes, and has the ability to grant three wishes. However, because leprechauns have a streak of malevolence and love practical jokes, those wishes have to be carefully considered because they’re likely to come with a sting in their tail. Plenty of the old folk tales about leprechauns involve them tricking simple Irish folk into making foolish wishes that will dog them with bad luck. When Johnny grants Devon his wishes, Devon is in a low place, and as one of his wishes contains an element of revenge, that’s all Johnny needs to wreak a little havoc.

The classic leprechaun occupation is making and mending shoes, but in the modern world, the cobbler’s shop has all but disappeared from our high streets. So instead Johnny is a bartender who knows how to throw a great party. Rather than fitting the leprechaun image of being quick-tempered and solitary, he’s friendly, garrulous, and great fun to be around, which is part of the reason why Devon is so attracted to him. And like all leprechauns, Johnny loves to drink and adores music, especially that played by Devon, who’s been forced to hide his dreams of being a singer and songwriter since his ex was never very supportive of his talent. I like to think that Johnny would be a good friend but one you wouldn’t want to cross.

Now that I’ve done my best to reclaim the leprechaun, maybe it’s time to shine a light on other less popular supernatural creatures and make them sexy too. Once you start looking, there are so many to choose from. Try Jimmy Squarefoot, a creature from the Isle of Man who walks on two legs but has a pig’s head and the tusks of a boar. Or Jack Frost, the King of Winter, who’ll freeze you as soon as look at you. Bring on the dwarves, the pixies and the sprites – in the world of urban fantasy and paranormal romance, each one of them is just waiting to find the right man to love.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I set a leprechaun trap for St Patrick’s Day, and I need to check whether I’ve caught anything. If I have, my wish is simple – that you all have as much fun reading The Leprechaun Next Door as I had writing it.

 

I am Rotherham’s foremost (okay, only) writer of quality erotica and erotic romance. Though I’m now based in London, family and football take me back North on a regular basis. Indeed, if you’re ever at a Rotherham United match (I know, what are the chances?) and you spot a small blonde with a large ‘London Millers’ flag, that’ll be me. Originally from South Yorkshire, Elizabeth Coldwell has been making up stories for as long as she can remember, only now she gets to people them with hot men. When she’s not got her nose in a book, she’s reviewing or trying to stop one or both of her cats from walking over her keyboard. She spends her time following her home town football team and baking the best brownies in East London.

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Leave a comment for Elizabeth, and you could win a copy of the book.

Filed Under: Author Guest Post, Blog Tour, Bonus Material, Book Excerpt, Book Review, Giveaway, New Release Review, Quick Reviews, Release Day Review, TCO Exclusives, TCO Reviewer: Denise Tagged With: author, Blog Tours, book, Book Reviews, Elizabeth Coldwell, exclusive, gay, giveaway, Giveaways, guest post, lgbtq, m/m romance, mmromance, new release, review, romance

The Case of the Voracious Vintner by Tara Lain: Exclusive Guest Post, Excerpt and Giveaway

January 29, 2019 by Denise

Where Bo Marchand comes from, gay men are just confirmed bachelors who never found the right girl. But now Bo’s a successful winemaker on the central coast of California, supporting his whole damned Georgia family, and all he really wants is the beautiful, slightly mysterious Jeremy Aames.

Jeremy’s vineyard is under threat from Ernest Ottersen, the voracious winemaker who seems to know all Jeremy’s blending secrets and manages to grab all his customers. Bo tries to help Jeremy and even provides a phony alibi for Jeremy when Ottersen turns up dead in Jeremy’s tasting room. But it’s clear Jeremy isn’t who he claims, and Bo must decide if it’s worth tossing over his established life for a man who doesn’t seem to trust anyone. When Jeremy gets kidnapped, some of the conservative winemakers turn out to be kinky sex fiends, and the list of murderers keeps dwindling down to Jeremy. Bo has to choose between hopping on his white horse or climbing back in his peach-pie-lined closet.

Title: The Case of the Voracious Vintner
Series: Middlemark Mysteries: Book 2
Author: Tara Lain
Release Date: January 29, 2019
Category: Mystery/Suspense
Pages: 279

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10 Wine Facts from Tara Lain’s The Case of the Voracious Vintner

Hi. I’m Tara Lain and I’m so happy to be celebrating the release of my new mystery novel The Case of the Voracious Vintner. As its name implies, the book’s heroes are wine makers and I thought it could be fun to share some inside wine growing facts that I include in this new romantic suspense.

  1. The book is set on the central coast of California in the lesser known California wine country in and around Paso Robles. This is a favorite area of mine and if you’re visiting California, I highly recommend this area as a stop. Like it’s more famous cousin Napa Valley, the central coast wineries are dotted along one winding road, so touring and tasting are easy.
  2. The central coast makes all kinds of wines, but is most famous for red zinfandel. If you’ve never tried it, I suggest giving it a taste. Not as heavy as a cabernet, zinfandel is a smooth, robust wine with great flavor that could turn you into a lover of reds.
  3. Many wineries, like those of my heroes, make most of their money not from finished wines, but from selling grapes and bulk wine to larger wine makers.
  4. I also love the more famous wine country in Napa Valley, so I set a few scenes on a trip there. This is a fantastic area for a visit, packed with great food, beautiful scenery and, above all, amazing wine.
  5. The winery, Hilltop, owned by my hero Jeremy Aames in the book is based on an actual winery on the central coast where they not only have delicious wines, but also the best sandwiches ever.
  6. If you’ve read any of my books, it’s not hard to guess that my favorite alcoholic beverage is champagne, so I had to include a trip to a champagne maker in Napa.
  7. America’s premier maker of sparkling wine (aka champagne) is Schramsberg, located in Napa Valley. They actually have miles of caves where they keep wine as I describe in the book and they riddle (turn) their bottles by hand.
  8. Dry farming as is done by my hero Bo Marchand is an actual way of making wine, which uses almost entirely natural rainfall for irrigation and when you’re talking California, that’s not much rain. There are special techniques that encourage the growth of the vines and it also influences the taste of the wine.
  9. The handsome waiter, RJ, who I describe in the book is also based on an actual person – a movie star gorgeous wine tasting waiter who I encountered at a winery on the central coast.
  10. The references to the Dionysian mysteries in the book are based on Greek and Roman mystery groups that used wine and other intoxicants in their worship. Of course, poor Dionysus gets blamed for a lot, as is true in this story. LOL.

I hope you enjoy The Case of the Voracious Vintner!

Heart beating hard, Bo climbed out of the little silver-blue car and walked into the cottage-style building he knew to be a far more upscale establishment than its hippy-dippy furnishings made it appear. Jeremy was sitting on an old church pew against the entry wall when Bo walked in. Other would-be diners cast subtle glances at him—he was just that handsome—but his mane was pulled back into a strict tail at his neck, or they would have been staring openly. The smile he flashed as he stood went straight to Bo’s balls—and his cheeks with a flush of heat. Bo managed to get a word past his frozen lips. “Hello.”

“Hi.”

Their eyes met and couldn’t seem to let go. Fine with him, but they weren’t even close to alone. Bo swallowed hard and glanced around at the other customers, then back at Jeremy. “So, are they ready for us?”

“Probably. They said they were getting the table ready when I came in.”

Bo walked over to the hostess and used the dimples. “Hello, ma’am. I’m Bo Marchand. You’re preparing a table for me and my, uh, associate, Mr. Aames. Would y’all happen to be ready for us?” Flashing all the expensive dental work seemed to do the trick.

“Oh yes, sir, Mr. Marchand. We have a lovely table for you, private as you requested.” She fluttered her lashes.

He leaned in. “A very important business meeting. You understand.”

“Oh yes, sir.” She looked behind her. “Violet, please take Mr. Marchand to his table.” She grinned and said softly, “Or anywhere else he wants to go.”

Bo chuckled and waved a hand to Jeremy to follow as Violet led them to a booth toward the back of the restaurant. They slid in on either side of the table.

Violet smiled. “Do you know what you’d like to drink?”

Jeremy asked, “May we see the wine list, please?”

“Of course.” She stepped to a nearby serving table and grabbed a menu. “Here you go.” She glanced down. “Can I ask how tall you are?”

Bo grinned. “Just a tiny tad over six feet four, ma’am.”

She giggled. “I’ll be back in just a moment.”

Jeremy chuckled. “You do package the charm there, darlin’.”

Bo’s cheeks heated.

Jeremy leaned across the table and angled the wine list so Bo could see. He said, “They have a few of my blends and most of your vintages.”

Violet reappeared.

Bo said, “I’ll have a glass of the Marchand zin.”

“Excellent choice, sir.” A grin tugged at her lips. She probably remembered his name. She glanced at Jeremy. “You, sir?”

“I’ll have the same.”

“No Hill Top?” Bo asked.

“Nah, I like the good stuff.”

Violet walked away as Bo laughed. But then they were alone. Choose something to talk about. “Uh, so have you thought any more about how we can work together?”

A waiter walked up with two balloon glasses of red and placed them on the table. “Enjoy.”

Jeremy nodded. “Oh, we will.” As the waiter returned to the kitchen, Jeremy held up his glass. “To us.” His Adam’s apple bobbed. “Uh, to our partnership.” His nostrils flared. “I mean, to defeating Ottersen.”

Bo’s pulse fluttered in his throat. “To all of those.”

They drank and Jeremy closed his eyes, revealing long, thick lashes several tones darker than his dirty-blond hair. “Oh man, you do give good zin, my friend.”

“I’m so glad you like it.”

“I do. So much.”

The words were simple, but they made Bo shiver, and he sloshed a mouthful of wine between his lips, spattering some on the white tablecloth.

Tara Lain believes in happy ever afters – and magic. Same thing. In fact, she says, she doesn’t believe, she knows. Tara shares this passion in her best-selling stories that star her unique, charismatic heroes — the beautiful boys of romance —  and adventurous heroines. Quarterbacks and cops, werewolves and witches, blue collar or billionaires, Tara’s characters, readers say, love deeply, resolve seemingly insurmountable differences, and ultimately live their lives authentically. After many years living in southern California, Tara, her soulmate honey and her soulmate dog decided they wanted less cars and more trees, prompting a move to Ashland, Oregon where Tara’s creating new stories and loving living in a small town with big culture. Likely a Gryffindor but possessed of Parseltongue, Tara loves animals of all kinds, diversity, open minds, coconut crunch ice cream from Zoeys, and her readers. She also loves to hear from you.

Author Links:

Website:  http://taralain.com/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/taralain

FB Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/taralain

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/tara-lain

Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/2Wt40LJ

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

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/taralain/

Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/255111391312743/

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In Safe Hands by Victoria Sue: Exclusive Cover Reveal, TWO Exclusive Excerpts and Giveaway

January 25, 2019 by Denise


Victoria Sue is stopping by today to give TCO readers an exclusive peek at the beautiful cover of In Safe Hands, coming March 19th. She’s brought along some fantastic excerpts (one that sucks you in right away!!!!) and a giveaway for commenters. The cover is so gorgeous, so detailed. It is just beautiful, so check everything out, comment for the giveaway, and then look at the cover again and again. 🙂 Thanks Sue for stopping by! 

Former helicopter pilot Maverick Delgardo’s injuries ended his Air Force career, leaving him bitter and one drink away from becoming an alcoholic. When his sister asks for his help on a private protection case to babysit a disgraced pop star, Mav reluctantly agrees.

Deacon Daniels, onetime lead singer and idol to his teenage fans, saw his career and reputation ruined when a reporter’s exposé led to a devastating scandal. Without money or a job, a heartbroken Deacon has lost custody of his baby niece. And just when he thinks his life can’t get any worse, a stalker’s threatening messages escalate to murder.

Mav only agreed to one meeting, but his protective instincts kick in, along with an attraction to Deacon. When the body count increases, however, Mav is unsure he is up to the task of protecting Deacon from a killer. But it is too late for Mav to step away, now that he’s lost his heart, and he must find the strength to reassure Deacon and his niece that they are in safe hands no matter the cost.

 

Dreamspinner Press

Victoria Sue wanted fans to not only see the gorgeous cover by the amazing Jay Aheer, but also brought you TWO Exclusive excerpts. So, take a look at the cover maybe one or two more times 😉 and then check out the excerpts! 🙂

The man looked down and pasted on his best nervous expression just before he got into the stupid bitch’s car. She smiled eagerly, but then she would, because she thought he was doing her a huge fucking favor.

She didn’t know she was going to die.

“You’re sure my name isn’t going to be leaked?” he said, pretending to be worried. “I need a promise of complete confidentiality.”

Sara Jeffries put her hand on his arm in what he was sure she thought was a comforting gesture. “Absolutely. No names. I can promise you complete confidentiality.” She tittered like she’d just said the funniest thing in the history of forever. He wondered if she’d still be giggling like they were sharing some big fucking secret when he was pouring lighter fuel all over her naked body. He licked his lips, and she patted his arm again. The bitch thought it was a nervous gesture, but really he was imagining all the things he could do to have some fun first. This one he was going to take his time with.

“Nice car,” he complimented. He would have preferred to meet in his, but that would have been awkward when they went home together.

She smiled again and opened an iPad.

“No,” he said. “Nothing electronic. You promised you would show me your notes first when we are done.” He couldn’t take the risk of her saving something externally. He was content at the moment to let her think he was paranoid. He brought a pad and pen out of his pocket. “You can use this.”

“Very traditionalist,” she snickered but took them and stowed the iPad away in her purse. “Now,” she said. “You were going to give me some information about Deacon Daniels.”

“Why are you so interested in him?” She’d been like a dog with a bone.

Her eyes gleamed. “Because he’s my ticket out of here. I have an interview next week in New York.”

He leaned forward as if he was sharing a confidence and clasped the syringe in his pocket, sliding the cap off the needle. “Did you know he’s got a new boyfriend?”

She stilled. “My readers won’t care he’s gay. He’s not exactly kept it a secret.” She sighed as if she was disappointed, and he smiled to himself.

“Did you know his old agent is dead?”

Her head whipped up. “Jones? No. Accident? Suspicious?” She started trying to take notes, but the pen wouldn’t work as he knew it wouldn’t. She tutted and bent forward, reaching in her purse for another. It had been exactly the move he had been hoping for, and before she even had a chance to think about screaming, his hand was covering her mouth, and he plunged the needle into her neck. He held her effortlessly while she struggled.

“Quit fighting,” he crooned, even as he felt her struggles getting weaker, “because I’m going to give you an exclusive.” Her eyes widened, not because she wanted the story, but because she knew what was coming.

“There’s going to be another murder,” he whispered in her ear as she gave one last pathetic jerk, and he watched as her eyes closed. He gave her another second to give the ketamine a chance to work properly, and then he let her go. He stuffed everything into her bag, got out of the car, and walked around to the driver’s side. He’d insisted because of his job he couldn’t be seen, and she had understood, so no one was around here to see him lift her out of the seat and stuff her in the trunk. Then he would take her home. He’d already checked she had a garage he could just drive into when they got back to hers.

The man smiled to himself again. That had really been way too easy.

“You think I hurt her?”

Maverick blinked. “What? No.”

“Then what the hell do you mean?” Deacon burst out.

“I screwed up last night,” Maverick admitted. He had. Anyone could have come in, and Deacon would have had no protection whatsoever. “If you’d have had problems last night, I couldn’t have done jack shit.”

He could see Deacon’s face soften, but the last thing he wanted was Deacon feeling sorry for him. Things could have gone badly wrong last night while he was having his own pity party all because he wanted so desperately to follow Deacon upstairs and join him in bed. He’d had the drink to dampen the urge. He’d had the second because he’d had the first. He couldn’t remember how many he drank, but the first one had been one too many.

“And it’s not only that.” He tapped his leg in case Deacon still didn’t get it. “I’ll be completely honest, when Shirley offered Jamie this job, she intimated a couple of days babysitting while you calmed down.” Deacon stiffened, and Maverick held up a conciliatory hand. “She was obviously wrong and misjudged you and the threat itself.” He swallowed. “Deacon, there is the real possibility that there is a killer picking off people you know. What if he or she comes for you?”

“Maverick, I have no money.”

“I’ll pay.”

“You try and I’ll leave here and check into a motel,” Deacon threatened.

“You’ve just said you’ve got no money,” Maverick pointed out dryly.

“The papers would pay for it.”

“What?” Maverick exclaimed.

“I have three that have offered to advance me the cash for my ‘exclusive’ story.” Deacon finger quoted. “I could be out of here in thirty minutes.”

“Absolutely not,” Maverick thundered, wondering how this was going so wrong.

“Says who?” Deacon challenged.

“Me, for starters.” It was ridiculous. “You can’t go wandering about on your own.” It wasn’t safe, and the thought of Deacon getting hurt made him feel distinctly ill.

“If I can’t have you, I don’t want anyone,” Deacon said firmly. “So make up your mind because I will have to go get my things together.”

“I’m no good for you,” Maverick tried again.

“Can you shoot?”

Maverick scowled. Of course he could, but he knew what Deacon was trying to say. “Okay, I’m your protection, but you have to promise me something.” Deacon arched an eyebrow but waited. “You stay here, and I will look after you. If this escalates, I may bring in further help from my contacts who I was going to ask originally when Jamie wanted to start this type of business.”

Mav looked at the stubborn set of Deacon’s jaw, the pale face, and the very light dusting of freckles across his nose that were so like Molly’s. The blue eyes were wide open and flashing fury, and Deacon was standing, hands on his hips, and preparing to do battle.

And how Maverick stayed still and didn’t gather him in his arms and kiss him senseless was completely beyond him.

Victoria Sue fell in love with love stories as a child when she would hide away with her mom’s library books and dream of the dashing hero coming to rescue her from math homework. She never mastered math but never stopped loving her heroes and decided to give them the happy ever afters they fight so hard for.
She loves reading and writing about gorgeous boys loving each other the best—and creating a family for them to adore. Thrilled to hear from her readers, she can be found most days lurking on Facebook where she doesn’t need factor 1000 sun-cream to hide her freckles.

www.victoriasue.com

@vickysuewrites

https://www.facebook.com/victoriasueauthor

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1182647028418709/

Leave a comment with your thoughts for Victoria Sue, and you could win one of her backlist books.

Filed Under: Author Guest Post, Bonus Material, Cover Reveals, TCO Exclusives, Uncategorized Tagged With: author, book, Book Excerpts, cover reveal, gay, giveaway, Giveaways, lgbtq, m/m romance, mmromance, romance, Victoria Sue

Fair Isn’t Life by Kaje Harper: Exclusive Double Guest Post, Release Day Review and Giveaway

November 16, 2018 by Denise

I am so super excited to welcome Kaje Harper today at Two Chicks Obsessed. As soon as I saw Fair Isn’t Life was coming out, I immediately messaged Kaje and asked her to do a special guest post. Both Kaje and I live in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota, where the Great Minnesota Get Together, also known as the Minnesota State Fair, is and where this book begins. The Minnesota State Fair is a huge deal in the state, and brings people from all over to eat “food on a stick”, see farm animals, and sweat in the hot sun and humidity that is a Minnesota summer. So, I had to do a “this or that” list with Kaje to see what our differences are. Check it out (and yes, all these things are things you can do/see/eat at the Minnesota State Fair), and enter the giveaway!

 

Luke Lafontaine survived the past year by not thinking about the father he lost, the dairy farm he couldn’t save from bankruptcy, or his way of life that vanished with the rap of an auctioneer’s hammer. Cleaning up city folks’ trash at the Minnesota State Fair is just another dead-end job. But at the Fair, surrounded by a celebration of farm life, ambitions he’d given up on and buried deep start to revive. And seeing Mason Bell in the parade—gorgeous, gay, out-of-his-league Mason—stirs other buried dreams.

Mason left his hometown for college in Minneapolis without looking back. Student life is fun, classes are great, gay guys are easy to find, but it’s all a bit superficial. He’s at the State Fair parade route with his band when he realizes a scruffy maintenance worker is Luke, his secret high school crush. Luke should be safely home working on his dad’s farm, not picking up litter. Mason wishes he hadn’t fallen out of touch. He’s an optimist, though, and it’s never too late for second chances. Now he just has to convince Luke.

States of Love: Stories of romance that span every corner of the United States.

Title: Fair Isn’t Life
Author: Kaje Harper
Release Date: November 16, 2018
Category: Contemporary, States of Love (Minnesota)
Pages: 148

Amazon US

Amazon UK

Dreamspinner Press

Barnes & Noble

Kobo

iBooks

Thanks for giving me time to hang out on this blog, as my new book, Fair Isn’t Life, is released. How fun that we’ve both been to the Minnesota State Fair (second largest in the nation, I’ll have you know) where my book begins. The Fair has so many good things, including more food than anyone can possibly even try once.  I insisted Denise had to fill these questions out too – let’s see how our choices compare.

  1. Pork chop on a stick or turkey legs?

KH: I have to admit I’ve never tried either one. If I did, I’d be more likely to go for the pork chop. I eat 95% vegetarian, but when I splurge it’s usually bacon-related.

DSC: I’m not a big meat person (giggle), but definitely prefer turkey legs. And I am totally down with the bacon-related items that Kaje mentioned!

  1. Swine barn or miracle of birth center

KH: I love the Miracle of Birth Center, run by the veterinary college. It’s an important piece of Fair Isn’t Life too, as Luke confronts his dreams and future in there. Seriously— newborn calves, tiny piglets, twin lambs, and fuzzy ducklings. What’s not to love? (Although the annual biggest pig at the Fair in the Swine Barn is pretty impressive too. This year “Johnny” topped the scales at 1,040 pounds.)

DSC: Definitely the Miracle of Birth Center. I love goats! Like seriously LOOOOVVVEEEE goats, so any chance I get to see baby goats, or any goats, is my time. That being said, they are also in the Swine Barn, so I win either way.

  1. Space needle or Giant Slide

KH: I’m a Needle fan – I love looking down from (safe) heights. My kids loved the slide better.

DSC: Although we didn’t do it this year, I definitely prefer the Giant Slide. Although the bags you sit on are itchy!

  1. Sweet Martha’s cookies or deep fried candy bars/Oreos

KH: Cookies. Give me all the cookies. (I have nothing against candy bars – chocolate is my preferred writing fuel, but deep frying puts them over the top for me.)

DSC: Definitely Sweet Martha’s cookies. That overflowing bucket of melting cookies has you sick to your stomach. Why do they bother selling the little cone of them, I have always wondered. Does anyone actually buy that? lol

  1. French Fries or Cheese Curds

KH: Fries, please. Better yet, Duke’s Poutine – fries with cheese curds and gravy – a taste of my Montreal roots.

DSC: Cheese Curds. Deep fried deliciousness…Kaje mentioned the Poutine…my family loves it…me? I don’t quite get it, but hey, they can have that, and I get all the cheese curds!

  1. Ball Park (beer garden) or Wine Country

KH: I like a good wine (or even a cheap wine LOL), but never learned to appreciate beer. (My main characters Luke and Mason would say the opposite.)

DSC: This one I follow the family wherever they choose to go, neither one is a draw for me. But give me a huge cup of the lemonade? Oh yes!

  1. Coliseum or Grandstand

KH: Coliseum. I’m crazy about horses (I worked in a riding camp for girls as a teen) and I’m not crazy about really loud music and crowds, so I’d rather watch the pretty ponies.

DSC: hahaha I chose the Coliseum, but for all the little shops that surround it. I found some awesome Christmas presents there this year, and at a great deal since it was Labor Day! 🙂

  1. Open Sky Ride or Closed Sky Ride

KH: Open Sky Ride – I like the way it passes over the crowd but not too high and wide open, so you feel engaged with the fair below. This year, as we passed over the karaoke booth, they were playing Bohemian Rhapsody and people in the chairs were singing along with the folks on the ground to Freddie Mercury’s classic.  (Fun observation – everyone from seniors to preteens knew the words. Freddie was a genius.)

In years past, the building roof that the ride goes over had lots of dropped hats and flip flops; by now, we saw it’s mostly adorned with underwear. My son and I discussed how you could get out of bras and particularly undershorts while in the chair seats, or if people brought them along to drop…

DSC: Open Sky Ride. Although that being said, this year I noticed a ton of people dropped their undergarments on the roof of one of the buildings as they went overhead. I had to wonder…did they plan ahead for that? hahaha Kaje and I mentioned the same thing! I took a picture as a memorial. Someday someone will find that in my phone and wonder WTF?

  1. Agriculture Building or Education Building

KH: I like the Ag building. It brings the flavor of a real fair to the big urban celebration. I like looking at the prize winning vegetables and all the flowers.

DSC: Agriculture building. I love the Christmas display they get up in the middle. And the apples, and the taste testing. 🙂


  1. West End or International Bazaar

KJ: International Bazaar – it feels hopeful to see people learning about and enjoying other cultures.

DSC: We did the West End this year, and really enjoyed it. Definitely a must again next year. But I love the International Bazaar too.

  1. Butterfly House or Reptile House

KH: Reptiles are fascinating— I once owned a pet snake and he was a cutie. But I vote Butterfly House. I like watching the little kids in awe of having a butterfly land on their arm. There’s a tinge of sadness in the fragility that ends up in small crumpled losses in the corners (and that’s something that Mason was upset about as a kid, in a cut scene that didn’t make it into the book.) Still, the big-eyed wonder and seeing the kids try so hard to be still and gentle warms my heart.

DSC: Butterfly House. And I didn’t realize when I was reading the book the butterfly reference was more than the brief reference, so now I want to see that scene! 🙂

  1. Midway or Kidway

KH: Other than the Sky Ride or a Ferris Wheel, I’m not much of a rides person. So this depends on who I’m with. My first time at the Fair was when my older son was just 18 months old. This summer, my younger son was 22 years old. Their tastes changed.

DSC: I normally would have said neither, but this year my brother made me go on several of the fun houses in the Midway and we had a blast! Loads of fun.

  1. Haunted House or Fun House

KH: Fun House – not a fan of horror, or screaming. (Plus sometimes there are clowns in the haunted house.)

DSC: See previous answer! And the New York City one was awesome!!!

  1. Ice Cream or Custard

KH: If I’m going to eat a frozen treat, let it be decadent – Custard.

DSC: I’m going to go with the milk shakes, cause those are awesome!

  1. Minnesota Apples or Minnesota Honey

KH: Apples. The Honeycrisp is a Minnesota creation.

DSC: Honey all the way. The honey ice cream is delicious!

  1. Fried Pickles or Corn on the Cob

KH: Corn. I never developed a taste for pickles. And the corn is soooooooo good.

DSC: Hmmmm….well since it’s on a stick, I’m going with Corn on the Cob!!!!

KH: Thanks for inviting me onboard today, and for reminding me about all the good stuff from our Fair (and now I really want Funnel Cakes…)

DSC: Thanks for playing along!

Okay, I am not sure if it’s fair (haha, get it?) for me to review this book. I mean the Minnesota State Fair, and just all the Minnesota references were out of this world. I had so much fun with this book. Although it starts at the fair, as these two men get reaquainted, there are tons of other references that made me smile, laugh, or just reminded me of all the good stuff that comes with living in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area. (Go Twins!) It was a great step into what a lot of people call “flyover country”, but don’t realize is a rich, diverse area with lots to see and do, including the Great Minnesota Get Together.

All that being said, I really did love this book, not just because of the location of the story, but also from a character driven aspect.

I really liked both of these characters, and what they were dealing with during this time in their lives. Luke was trying to bring himself out of a grief stricken and guilt induced depression that was crushing. He knew he needed to do something with his life, but hadn’t been able to see through the cloud of grief to decide. Having someone like Mason come back into his life at a time when he needed a guiding support, and even someone to push him a little was very realistic. It was obvious Luke had spent much of his life doing what he was told, and trying to be the good, faithful son, because his father wanted that from him. Breaking out a little was a great way for him to begin to find himself, who he wanted to be, what he wanted to do with his life, and acknowledge that he wanted Mason as his man.

Meanwhile, Mason, despite being a small femme man, knew what he wanted, and went right after it. He wanted Luke in his life, and even when Luke got caught up in all the things going on in his brain, Mason was patient but persistent. He wasn’t about to let Luke give up simply because he couldn’t believe that someone would want him. He helped Luke find his way, simply by being there for him, and giving him a helping hand as Luke tried to gain his footing. Mason may have been chatty, and gregarious, perhaps thought of by some of the baseball players in the book as over the top, but he absolutely knew when the right time was to sit back and wait, and when to push forward. I loved Mason’s attitude. He was confident, and helped Luke find his own confidence in himself and what he could do.

There was so much character development in this short novel, I was very impressed. Each movement of Luke’s, each comment, or non-comment, spoke to his personality, and the stressors in his life. So very well done. And we got an HFN, so that always makes me happy!

4.5 pieces of eye candy

I get asked about my name a lot. It’s not something exotic, though. “Kaje” is pronounced just like “cage” – it’s an old nickname. I’ve been writing far longer than I care to admit (*whispers – forty years*), mostly for my own entertainment, usually M/M romance (with added mystery, fantasy, historical, SciFi…) I also have Young Adult short stories (some released under the pen name Kira Harp.)

It was my husband who finally convinced me that after all the years of writing just for fun, I really should submit something, somewhere. My first professionally published book, Life Lessons, came out from MLR Press in May 2011. I now have a good-sized backlist in ebooks and print, both free and professionally published, including Amazon bestseller The Rebuilding Year and Rainbow Award Best Mystery-Thriller Tracefinder: Contact. A complete list with links can be found on my website “Books” page at https://kajeharper.wordpress.com/books/.

I’m always pleased to have readers find me online at:

Website: https://kajeharper.wordpress.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KajeHarper

Goodreads Author page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4769304.Kaje_Harper

Leave a comment on this post, and win an ebook copy of one of Kaje’s backlist books.

Filed Under: Author Guest Post, Bonus Material, New Release Review, Quick Reviews, Randomness, Release Day Review, TCO Exclusives, TCO Reviewer: Denise Tagged With: 4.5 stars, author, Blog Tours, book, Book Reviews, exclusive, gay, giveaway, Giveaways, guest post, Kaje Harper, lgbtq, m/m romance, mmromance, new release, review, romance

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Cover for Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy
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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

We are two chicks who love books (m/m romance with an HEA) and enjoy our eye candy. http://twochickso

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

4 days ago

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy
✨ Let’s celebrate! It’s release day for THE ULTIMATE SAVE by @felicestevens! Grab it in KU!#OneClickNowgeni.us/TheUltimateSaveWhy you need to #ONECLICK this book…🔥MM Hockey: goalie & the news anchor🔥Enemies to Lovers🔥Hurt/comfort🔥Slow burn🔥The chaos agent and the stuffed shirt🔥Circle of friends🔥Hate to want you🔥Secrets and liesDenisI’m the best goalie in the league.Just ask me.Yes, I have an ego the size of NYC. Maybe that’s why I’ve crashed and burned all my relationships. Love, like a hockey game, is a competition. And once I win, I’m ready for the next game, the next man. Until I meet him. Sterling Forest. The arrogant, obnoxious news anchor who calls hockey players thugs on ice. He tempts me…intrigues me. Makes me want to kiss that scowl off his lips. I want him to burn for me.Instead Sterling is the one to set my heart on fire.SterlingI know nothing about hockey, and I’m happy to keep it that way. I’ve apologized for my remarks, but the insufferable Denis Bouvier isn’t satisfied. I even do the unthinkable and attend a hockey game. Okay, maybe it is more than brute force. But I can’t tell him he’s right. Now he’s everywhere I go, and I hate that he fascinates me.I can’t escape his larger-than-life presence, and that sexy French accent. The more I push him away, the closer he pulls me in.And I’m afraid to admit I don’t want to let him go. We’ve spent years running away from broken families and broken promises. But when life explodes around us, we’re running toward each other. And now that the unthinkable has happened, we need to find trust in each other and what our hearts are saying: love is the one thing that ultimately can save us.��Start with The Ultimate Goal, available in KU, now: getbook.at/UltimateGoal#newbookalert #felicestevens #mmromance The Author Agency ... See MoreSee Less

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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

5 days ago

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy
✨It’s cover reveal day for AVALANCHE by @jillian_wray_author releasing April 30th!#PreOrderNowa.co/d/08fGzCvVA LOVE THAT COULD BURY US BOTH.Four years of silence, two thousand miles, and a love their parents will never forgive.STONE It wasn’t Hanlon’s fault our parents pampered him while pushing me to the brink. But I still resented it. I left to get out of Hanlon’s orbit, to live my life without having to worry about him. Fouryears later, we’ve barely spoken until he shows up on the doorstep of my ski patrol office, ready to start his internship. Neither of us is thrilled. It doesn’t take long before my protective instincts kick back in, but so do the lessons I taught him all those years ago. When his independence threatens his safety, I realize my feelings for Hanlon have shifted, creating a problem bigger than any avalanche threatening this mountain.HANLON My diagnosis left me with physical limitations most people get hung up on. Except Stone. He’s the one person who always made me feel like I could do anything. And then he left, never knowing how much his absence nearly destroyed me. I didn’t ask to be placed at Ricochet Ridge, but as Stone and I figure out how to work together, the energy between us shifts. When he finds out I’m gay, it shifts again, threatening to pull us both under.THE RISK Their connection is a ticking time bomb. If their parents find out, the fallout will be catastrophic, tearing the family apart forever. But on the mountain, the "rules" of their family tree feel less important than the heat rising between them. Stone remains the only person who looks past Hanlon’s physical struggles to see his strength, creating an intimacy that is as healing as it is dangerous. Attraction isn’t the only danger on the mountain. With each new inch of precipitation, the snowpack weakens, threatening to break free, and while the threat of an avalanche feels metaphorical, the physical danger it poses is paramount.✨INFLUENCERS: Sign up here bit.ly/avalancheJWsignup​​Cover Credit:Illustrated Main @janene_o_literartEbook & Discreet @afterword.pa#coverreveal #jilliandwray The Author Agency ... See MoreSee Less

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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

5 days ago

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy
Dirty Little Secret by Riley HartNew release and my review!I honestly didn't know what to expect from this book. I'm fairly certain I've read every book Riley Hart has written. And NONE of them were BDSM themed. BDSM is tricky to write. It can come off really fake if the author either isn't part of it IRL or didn't do enough research. So I went in with an open mind. And wow did she deliver! I mean the book opens with James and Colton getting together for a scene and there's no shying away from that part of the book. It is integral. James doesn't want to want to be submissive. But he needs it. And while there is a "reason" for him wanting to be submissive, I don't think it is necessary. My one gripe if you can even call it that.After 2 scenes with Colton, James pulls back. And then his world kind of implodes. Right before classes start, he finds out that he has 2 half siblings and his mother is dead. He reluctantly takes them out of a sense of duty. But he has NO idea what he is doing. This poor guy. He had a horrible upbringing, teaches college and has never been around kids. And one is a teenage boy who was parentified when his sister came along.And then...Colton walks into his classroom. James NEEDS Colton's control. But they can't. But they do. And the scenes again are crazy hot, inventive and sometimes risky. Colton is mature beyond his years and the age gap was never really a thing for me. The way he took care of James throughout the book just spoke of his maturity. I almost think that James might have a touch of the 'tism as my friends say, but it could also just be his absolute need for control in his life after his childhood. That need for control is severely tested throughout the book. Especially with his siblings. But for someone who has no experience, he really tries until progress is slowly made.Colton just kind of slowly assimilates into James' life as his "friend". He just can't help helping. It's who he is.And I will say it's a romance so it did have a solid HEA, but damn it made me cry toward the end! Loved Colton, loved James, loved the kids, loved the side characters, loved the arcs they each went on. Just yes, read it.4 1/2 pieces of eye candy! ... See MoreSee Less

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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

6 days ago

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy
✨Let’s celebrate! It’s release day for DIRTY LITTLE SECRET by Riley Hart! Grab it in KU!#OneClickNowgeni.us/DirtyLittleSecretHartWhy you need to #ONECLICK this book…🔥BDSM🔥Secret Relationshi🔥Student/Professo🔥Age Gap (28/40)🔥Younger Dom/Older su🔥Opposites Attrac🔥Custody of surprise siblingJamesI’m forty years old, a tenured professor with investments, property, and a 401k.But what I crave is to submit. To hand over control to Colton. We met on an app. His needs matched mine. It was only supposed to be once, then twice. No commitment, so I don’t feel bad cutting contact.Then my world implodes when I get custody of siblings I didn’t know I have.Everything would have been fine, I would have survived on my own, if not for Sir, my hookup, walking through the doors of my classroom.He’s over a decade younger than me, and now I’m his professor, yet Sir is giving me schedules I need and caretaking from a distance. I know I should stay away, but I can’t. No matter what he gives me, I want more.ColtonI’m twenty-eight years old, starting my first semester as a transfer student at a local university, finally following my dreams.And then I see him, the sub I haven’t stopped thinking about, the one who comes undone for me in ways I’ve never experienced before. He makes all my Dominant instincts flare to life. I’ve always loved caretaking, but James makes me need it on a bone-deep level.It’s not long before he’s on his knees for me again, surrendering in ways we both crave. He’s forbidden, my professor, my good boy, and I’m his Sir…his dirty little secret. But it’s not enough. I want it all from him, if only he’ll let me have it.#rileyhart #newbookalert #kindleunlimited The Author Agency ... See MoreSee Less

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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

6 days ago

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy
Stick Around: Punk as Puck (Legends and Fury book 1) by EM LindseyNew release and my review!First, I went into this without reading the first three books. So I really didn't know anything about the series. That being said, it's definitely a book that can be read as a stand alone if you choose.Hockey, hockey, hockey. Amirite? It was big in the MM romance world way before Heated Rivalry because a phenomenon. I don't even watch hockey IRL, but when the book is done well, there aren't pages and pages of game day play by play. (In my opinion!). And this was done well.Onto the story. I absolutely loved that this book had both NHL and PPHL. PPHL is hockey for blind players. Want to get me invested? Teach me something new. And this did. I digress.There's a bit of a rivalry between the two teams because they have to share the arena. So the NHL captain with a giant chip on his shoulder really despises the PPHL team- especially the goalie, who also has a bit of a chip on his shoulder. And then they find out that they have something in common. Or someone.Alexio (NHL) softened up WAY more quickly than expected. Like the chip on his shoulder just turned to dust. Part of it was trying to play with goggles on that mimicked blindness and part of it was because he finally heard the real story about what was going on with Jonah and his family.Jonah being blind and navigating the world was front and center. From how difficult it is because of the lack of accommodations, to forgetting to turn his apartment lights on when a sighted person comes over. At the same time it never felt preachy or like I was being lectured.There's something else about Jonah that I won't mention, but I appreciate that it was in the book. Because it never, ever is. Alexio and Jonah together were fire. Their chemistry was undeniable and not easy for them to deny. Even when they were at odds they couldn't keep their hands off of each other.Each of these guys has their own tribe of friends and when they start mingling, it's both hilarious and they can get stuff done. Obviously some of the characters are from previous books, but some are new. And I really hope one of them (VANNY!) gets a books soon. And Jonah's other brother. I'd be fine if they were in one book together. ;)Not often you get 2 black cats in one relationship, but with Alexio quickly turning into a golden retriever, it was a good read.4 Pieces of eye candy ... See MoreSee Less

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