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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books & Eye Candy

Sharing our love of M/M Romance

5 stars

Best Laid Plans (Garnet Run Book 2) by Roan Parrish: New Release Review * 2

March 8, 2021 by Denise

A man who’s been moving his whole life finally finds a reason to stay put.

Charlie Matheson has spent his life taking care of things. When his parents died two days before his eighteenth birthday, he took care of his younger brother, even though that meant putting his own dreams on hold. He took care of his father’s hardware store, building it into something known several towns over. He took care of the cat he found in the woods…so now he has a cat.

When a stranger with epic tattoos and a glare to match starts coming into Matheson’s Hardware, buying things seemingly at random and lugging them off in a car so beat-up Charlie feels bad for it, his instinct is to help. When the man comes in for the fifth time in a week, Charlie can’t resist intervening.

Rye Janssen has spent his life breaking things. Promises. His parents’ hearts. Leases. He isn’t used to people wanting to put things back together—not the crumbling house he just inherited, not his future and certainly not him. But the longer he stays in Garnet Run, the more he can see himself belonging there. And the more time he spends with Charlie, the more he can see himself falling asleep in Charlie’s arms…and waking up in them.

Is this what it feels like to have a home—and someone to share it with?

Amazon

Carina Press

Better Than People (Book 1)

One of the things I really love about Roan Parrish‘s books are the writing. They are just SO well written. I don’t just mean edited well or a good story- although both are undeniably true. I mean she is a master of prose and narrative. She not only paints a picture that immerses you in the story, but the natural flow of language keeps you there.

I’m kind of gushing. But I know for a fact that I will have to look up at least 5 words that she uses. But the use of these words also flows. Because it is so well written. It’s not like she pulled this 25 cent word out of a thesaurus to sound smart. The writing IS smart. Do you know how many times I read the phrase “boner killer” in books? Far, far too many. Ms. Parrish instead said “anaphrodisiac”. It just elevates the narrative.

I’ll stop now. Instead I will talk about swoony Charlie, who we met in Better Than People, and Rye, a guy with no direction in life who packs up his cat and moves from Seattle to Wyoming when he finds out a grandfather he didn’t know he had, died and left him a house.

Being that Charlie owns the town’s hardware store and the house is quite literally falling down around him, Rye and Charlie meet quickly. But Charlie’s need to help is butting up against Rye’s need to be independent.

So begins their story of finding each other, learning to accept help, learning to love yourself and 2 amazing cats in the mix.

Just read it. You won’t be disappointed. You don’t have to read the first book, Better Than People, but you should. Because it is also a treasure.

And so, I am giving this book my ever rare, but certainly deserved…

5 pieces of eye candy

Another fantastic emotional journey by Roan Parrish. Every book I read by this author, I continue to be impressed by the level of emotion that is leveled into the stories, without creating unnecessary angst. (I’m not an angsty reader…that’s Erin…I like happy and sweet and an HEA that makes me feel squishy inside.)

We met Charlie in Better Than People, as the mysterious brother who raised Jack after their parents were killed. We didn’t learn a lot about Charlie in that book, other than he clearly loved his brother, and he was kind of stand-offish. In this book, we learn how he really dealt with their parents’ death, how it changed his life forever in many ways. The scene where this is addressed…just powerful.

Rye, in his own way stand-offish, but because of past hurts and challenges. But he was such a brave soul to pick up and move (and not leave his cat behind!!!!), and even when he saw the dilapidated home he was left didn’t give up, just kept trying and moving forward. Watching him learn to accept help was touching. It wasn’t easy for him, but he knew he could only do so much on his own.

These two men really complimented each other, and were able to work together to make a challenging situation become a great situation. 🙂 I love that Rye, despite his normal cynicism, saw the good in the kids at his house, and let them stay, even though he knew Charlie would not like it. He trusted the kids, and it said so much about the person he was. And in the end, he was right…he just had to convince Charlie of that.

Side note…the cats…yes, this crazy cat lady loved every minute with those two.

So well written, and it just felt warm and sunny and I felt happy when I finished. As an aside, the cover is perfect for the book!

4.5 pieces of eye candy

Filed Under: Book Review, New Release Review, Quick Reviews, Release Day Review, TCO Reviewer: Denise, TCO Reviewer: Erin Tagged With: 4.5 stars, 5 stars, author, book, Book Reviews, gay, lgbtq, m/m romance, mmromance, new release, review, romance

A Sweet Man (The Men of Halfway House Book 7) by Jaime Reese: Quick Review

September 4, 2020 by Denise

Two men. One sweet dream of family and forever.

Gabriel “Bull” del Toro loves his fast-paced globe-trotting job, but aches for an honest relationship and the trust that comes with it. After a few too many heartbreaks, he’s nearly given up hope of finding that special someone.

Until Ben.

Born deaf, Ben is used to working twice as hard for what he wants, but risking a newfound friendship on an impossible dream is scary. After all, there’s one lesson he’s learned: everything is temporary—freedom, friends, even family.

Neither man expects the undeniable spark between them or for every moment together to fuel that connection. For the first time, a happily ever after is within reach, but they must trust that the dream of acceptance, family, and a place to call home is more than a sweet fantasy.

It can be forever.

Although part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone.

Amazon – Kindle Unlimited

What a beautiful, lovely story. I’m not sure I wanted it to end.

Ben has not had it easy, to say the least. Growing up deaf, and really being almost ignored as a deaf child. His mother basically tossed him aside, his sister, well, she was a piece of work, and people he thought were his friends, just used him until he was sent back to jail.

Bull could not have been more patient or more supportive with Ben. He didn’t try to turn him into something he wasn’t, he just wanted to find a way to be friends. I loved that texting was important to them initially, since Ben was mostly a lip reader. But Bull was so patient, and just slowly worked with Ben, no pressure, as they became closer on his sign language. It just became a part of their interactions, but not the sum total.

Ben had so many people in his corner, and he was not aware. It was so heartbreaking when someone(s) hurt him intentionally. His heart was so big, and so soft, that pain came quickly for him. (I might have cried several times during this book).

It was so great to see Ben find his way into something that he loved, that he earned, and not just what was easiest for him to do. It was so rewarding for him to finally earn something for himself, because he worked so hard at it. (Another tissue buster).

I absolutely loved this story. Jaime always hits with the feels, and this one may be my favorite so far.

5 pieces of eye candy

Filed Under: Book Review, New Release Review, Quick Reviews, TCO Reviewer: Denise Tagged With: 5 stars, author, book, Book Reviews, gay, Jaime Reese, lgbtq, m/m romance, mmromance, new release, review, romance

Alliance (Torsere Book 3) by Annabelle Jacobs: New Release Review

August 31, 2020 by Denise

With war, comes sacrifice….

Ryneq and Nykin return home to find the lowland armies camped along Torsere’s borders. Seran wants the dragons, and with a new witch in his ranks, war is inevitable.

With the elves at his side, Ryneq fights to keep Seran and his soldiers at bay. But they’re not prepared for the witch using old dark magic. As Nykin and the dragon riders battle a deadly attack, an unexpected betrayal forces Ryneq to make a difficult decision.

Faced with the prospect of losing his kingdom, Ryneq gambles on a plan that could ultimately save Torsere, if only they can stay alive long enough to see it through.

Featuring magic, suspense, and danger in the final instalment of this romantic fantasy.
Previously released through Dreamspinner

Amazon – Kindle Unlimited

This was a fabulous end to the trilogy, and I read it in one go. Nyken the dragon rider and consort of King Ryneq is busy juggling his new responsibilities as second to the lead dragon rider, and his relationship with Ryneq.

Ryneq–understandably–doesn’t want to put his lover in danger, but Nyken rides one of the most powerful dragons and it’s his job. It was good to see some personal issues to be resolved as their relationship grows.

Everything that the first two books have been leading to gets resolved in this book. Some I was expecting, some i was hoping for, and a few curve balls. Danger, action, sacrifice, betrayal, and heartbreak culminating in a very satisfying ending and a Happy Ever After.

I don’t think these books could be read as a standalone, but why would you want to? This is a trilogy firmy going on my reread shelf.

And dragons?

Did I mention dragons?

Five “flaming” stars

Filed Under: Book Review, Guest Review, New Release Review, Quick Reviews Tagged With: 5 stars, author, book, Book Reviews, dragons, fantasy, m/m romance, mmromance, new release, paranormal, review, romance

Wild Sky by Zaya Feli: Blog Tour, Exclusive Excerpt, New Release Review and Giveaway

August 28, 2020 by Denise

Tauran Darrica has been retired from the Valreus Sky Guard for four years following the Battle of the Broken Wings that resulted in the death of his dragon. Now, all Tauran wants to do is spend his days forgetting the past and gambling his way to an unsteady income.

So when his old general from the Sky Guard hunts Tauran down to request his help with staving off the increasingly aggressive wild dragon population, Tauran refuses. But a fire ruins his rented room and leaves him without a place to stay, and Tauran finds himself on the road to Valreus, after all.

Tauran is determined to stay as far away from dragons as he can get, but a starry-eyed young man from Sharoani, land of the wild dragons, might just ruin his plans.

Kalai Ro-Ani has spent his life watching the stars, knowing he could never reach them.

With his wild dragon Arrow, he sets out for the city of Valreus in the hope of building himself a better future than he could have stuck at the foot of the Kel Visal dragon temples.

But nobody told Kalai that only the Sky Guard is allowed to own dragons, so when Arrow kills a guard in Kalai’s defense, it looks like his adventure might be over before it can begin. But a chance encounter at the old Valreus archive offers Kalai the future he’d been hoping for. In the span of a single day, he has a home, a job, and a purpose.

In Valreus, something much bigger falls into his lap – along with a tall and striking Valrean man with a rather strange disposition.

A new, LGBT+ fantasy story from Zaya Feli, featuring dragons, aerial battles and epic journeys through dangerous wilderness.

WILD SKY by Zaya Feli

Publisher: Self-published

Release Date: Ebook: August 24th | Print: TBD

Length: Ebook: 189,000 words

Subgenre: Fantasy/Romance

Warnings: mentions of symptoms of depression and PTSD. Medicine addiction and withdrawal.

Amazon – Kindle Unlimited

From the author, Zaya Feli:

The overarching theme is about how healing is possible despite severe damage. That some things may not be fixable, and that simply learning to persevere and find support and happiness where it exists can be enough.

It took Tauran two days to work up the courage to enter the guard grounds.

He knew he was being a coward. That this new place, these new recruits, and the Ground Guard had nothing to do with what had happened at the Solar Tower.

But Tauran’s nerves weren’t so easily convinced.

When he approached the steel gates, he was happy he’d skipped breakfast. He grabbed the string and rang the bell a little too hard.

The hatch in the door opened, and a thankfully unfamiliar face appeared.

“Tauran Darrica,” Tauran said, “here at General Falka’s request.”

The doors swung open with a groan.

And then he was inside.

The atmosphere was such a stark contrast to the gloom brewing in Tauran that he had to pause and take a moment to adjust. It was as if Tauran’s memory of the guard had frozen in the time after the Battle of the Broken Wings, that stunned period full of fear and sorrow and rage.

But in the four years since Tauran had last been surrounded by the guard, it had recovered.

Young recruits ran past him shoulder to shoulder on their way to the first lesson of the day. A pair of older men, captains, judging by their uniforms, sat bent over a table, spending their break playing a game of Isutagi. At a table behind them, a woman with her sleeves rolled up past her elbows focused all her attention on the pistol she was cleaning. Black and copper uniforms dominated the outdoor space. The Ground Guard had always outnumbered the Sky Guard, but the difference seemed even more stark, now.

A brief glimpse of silver caught Tauran’s eye here and there. Messengers, or perhaps weather specialists, on their way to delivering flight reports and air pressure charts.

Tauran took a deep breath of the air inside the grounds and found it didn’t sting as much as he’d feared.

This book (all 764 amazing pages) kept me reading until a ridiculous time in the early hours of the morning to finish. It’s been a while since I  was so engrossed in a story. It kept me glued.

Fantasy at its best, and a new to me author I’m thrilled to discover has a backlist.

Two men. One a washed up permanently damaged ex Dragon rider who’s own Dragon died in a terrible war, and one a young innocent-ish geek who happens to have his own wild dragon currently hidden because in their world, dragons are so rare only properly trained riders are allowed to keep them.

The world building is amazing, the relationship between them and their dragons are wonderful, but this isn’t just a sweet romance.

There is evil, betrayal, enemies where you least expect, a wild dragon egg about to hatch, and problems that seem insurmountable. And not everything is black and white. Expect surprises and plot twists.

This will appeal to fans of Mercedes Lackey, Megann Derr, and C.S. Pacat

Five “Dragon’s teeth” (Sounds better than stars)

Zaya Feli grew up in various small towns in eastern Denmark where she spent most of her childhood and youth daydreaming about strange and incredible fantasy worlds. In 2018, she moved to northern Denmark with her pet snake, Helix, to work as a web developer, and is now dedicating all her free time turning the fantasy worlds inside her head into words and illustrations on the page.

An avid sci fi and fantasy fan since childhood, she also has a deep love for history, archery, nature, language and art.

Zaya Feli released her debut novel, Stag’s Run, in November 2016, and has since released four more full length novels and a short story. Her favourite genres are fantasy and sci-fi with a sprinkle of romance.

Connect with Zaya: Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Website

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Filed Under: Blog Tour, Book Excerpt, Book Review, Giveaway, Guest Review, New Release Book Blast, New Release Review, Quick Reviews, Release Day Review, TCO Exclusives Tagged With: 5 stars, author, blog tour, Blog Tours, book, Book Excerpts, Book Reviews, excerpt, exclusive, fantasy, gay, giveaway, Giveaways, guest post, lgbtq, lgbtq, m/m romance, mmromance, new release, paranormal, review, romance, Zaya Feli

Wood: A True Lover’s Story by A.E. Via: Blog Tour, New Release Review * 2

August 26, 2020 by Denise

This isn’t a romance about billionaires, movie stars, or models. This is a story of two ordinary, working-class men, dealing with life’s real problems, and trying to find love along the way.

It’s been a long seventeen years but Herschel Wood Jr. is finally a free man and he’s looking forward to reconnecting with his old cellmate, Bishop Stockley, who promised him a place to stay and some help getting back on his feet. Wood had a good life once upon time when he’d owned one of the most successful tattoo shops on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront – until a fatal accident that was his fault cost him everything.

Now at forty-six years old, all Wood wants is to work in another shop on the beach and find a mature, easygoing man to settle down with. But when he gets to his new place and finds he has to share the small trailer with Bishop’s childhood friend, he wasn’t expecting a sexy, smart-mouthed brat that enjoys pushing a man to his limits.

Wood pressed in so tight until there was only air and misunderstanding between them, his mouth mere inches from Trent’s parted lips. “You wanted to get a reaction out of me you annoying, immature little shit… now you’ve got one.”

Trent Armstrong has never been considered a catch. He’s a twenty-nine year old laborer, an ex-con, and not the easiest person to get along with. Everyone he’s ever cared for has walked out of his life without a backward glance, so he’s used to the loneliness. His foul mouth and quick temper are a great defense mechanism and a good way to keep unwanted people away.

From the moment the tattooed, silver-haired man walked into the house there had been nothing but tension, side-eyeing, and sparks between them. Trent has always held back a side of himself that he’s nervous to explore, and without warning Wood’s voice, his maturity, that maddening scent, and even his damaged past all trigger feelings that Trent thought he’d buried long ago.

Trent went completely still when Wood dragged his nose over his forehead and down the side of his face. His voice was shaky, and his breaths were hot and swift along Wood’s throat. “What the hell are you doing?”
“I’m doing what you want me to do.” Wood whispered. “I’m playing your bullshit game, Trent.”

The True Lover’s Stories are connected standalones. Each title features a different couple but will contain previously mentioned characters.
No multiple pairings. No cliffhanger. Ends with a HEA.
Note: This is a steaming angsty, age gap, new-to-love romance.

Amazon – Kindle Unlimited

Bishop: A True Lover’s Story

Well. Dayum! I was a big fan of Bishop, so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Wood. And while Bishop and Edison remain my favorite couple, I still enjoyed this book a lot. Was it perfect? Nah. But it was still a good read.

Bishop moved in with Edison and it seems his dad moved in with his girlfriend (this very well could have happened at the end of Bishop, my memory is crap) and since Trent was already sleeping on their couch- now he had the trailer to himself. Until Wood’s former cell mate gets out of prison and Bishop offers him the other bedroom. And to be roommates with Trent.

Poor Trent. I think mostly he was mad because he had a place to himself, that was basically his and now he has to share. Growing up like he did- I get it. And then apparently he had been quietly questioning his sexuality and then this handsome silver fox moves in.

Trent definitely has issues. He believes that everyone leaves him. Which is kind of unfair to Bishop and Mike who are ALWAYS there for him, but whatever. His mother bailed and a “mystery man” bailed. We do learn more about that, but no spoilers.

Wood also has issues, but is really good at compartmentalizing.

So push/pull, love/hate, older/younger. It is all there. They were both jerks to each other until they started hooking up. Then Wood’s past kind of smacked him in the face and Trent was there to help him through a really tough thing. Trent was really kind of swoony during all of that.

They were definitely hot together and I liked the premise of the story. Of course the writing itself was great. I did have a couple of issues. Mostly with Wood and his background. I don’t understand how he was found guilty of his crime. It seems easy enough to prove (yes, I am being vague). To not fight it at all. It seems he had the resources. I can’t imagine the guilt led him to accept that kind of punishment. But, it is what it is.

Trent also gets some closure, which he desperately needed and I was really happy for him there.

Overall, I really liked Wood and Trent together, but I am just really picky with some stuff. Admittedly.

4 Pieces of Eye Candy

I wasn’t ready. I thought I was ready, but I wasn’t. Let’s discuss.

We met Trent back in Bishop’s book, right? If you haven’t, stop what you’re doing and go read it. You will not be disappointed. I absolutely adored both him and Edison and they deserve every bit of adoration, they’re perfect. In saying that, I kinda had a bone to pick with Trent. He was mouthy, immature, hot-headed, immature, petty, immature, and in case you didn’t catch it, he was really immature. I didn’t understand him so much, I just knew he was important to Bishop, and now I understand why. Trent broke my heart. I felt for him so much in this story, because yeah, he’s still hot-headed, petty and extremely immature, he’s also incredibly loyal, the best friend to have in your corner, and once you earn a place in his life, there isn’t anything he’s not willing to do for you. He’s the best kind of person to have in your life, even if he doesn’t feel worthy.

Wood is fresh out of jail after doing near on twenty years for an accident that took a life. I say accident because it was, and Wood never made excuses and he owned it from the very beginning. That was Wood’s way. Fourty-six years young, he lost everything when he went in and starting over was going to be hard now that he’s out… not as hard as it could’ve been, because Wood had Bishop, who he met in prison. Bishop was giving him a place to get back on his feet, but there was once catch… he had to share the place with Bishops best friend, Trent… who did not want to be sharing his space with anyone, least of all a person that he felt had come between him and Bishop.

Trent doesn’t like change, doesn’t like new people, doesn’t like people who might threaten the relationships he trusts in, like Bishop is my best friend and he’s already got Edison, so there is no room in his life for another best friend, kinda thinking… I did mention the immature part, yes? However, it’s so much deeper than that and it hurt me to hear why.

Trent is used to be left. He’s used to being cast aside when someone better comes along, someone not as hot-headed and bratty. He’s used to pushing people away, giving them a reason to up and leave before they get a chance to leave him. He’s been hurt by so many people, left and discarded, it’s really no wonder he is the way he is. I would be too.
Feel attracted to Wood wasn’t part of the plan when he moved in, especially because he wanted to keep that chip on his shoulder and prove that Wood was the enemy, trying to take his best friend. Wood was somewhat patient and he seemed to see right through Trent, which was another problem, because as a ‘straight’ man, Trent didn’t want Wood seeing through him. It was inevitable though… they were exactly what each other needed.

My heart also broke for Wood, and I don’t want to give anything away, but I felt disappointed with me, in him and the man-made me feel all the emotions, especially when he messes up… badly. Not with Trent, with himself. With his sobriety. Having gone the last two years battling my own, I felt his pain. Maaaan, did I feel his pain. And that’s when Trent showed his loyalty. His compassion. His huge heart for the people he cared about. He knew it was likely going to bite him in the long run, but he was there. He fought for Wood when Wood couldn’t fight for himself. When Wood was broken, Trent held him together. How can anyone not see how beautiful that is?

I also loved the banter between Trent and Bishop and Bishop and Wood. I loved the interactions between Trent and Mike and how protective of Trent, Mike is. I loved Edison, and his soft heart and how he just is with everyone, and I CANNOT wait to see what’s going to happen with Rayne and Mike, hello, their whole interaction was HOT. I also hope we get to see more Elton, aka, El. I have a feeling they’re all going to be just as amazing and the rest of this series has been so far.

I cannot wait!

So, if you like a little angst, some very hot anticipation that is guaranteed to deliver, and a very sweet happily ever after, don’t pass this one up. You’ll love them as much as I do, I promise!

5 pieces of eye candy

Filed Under: TCO Reviewer: Erin Tagged With: 4 stars, 5 stars, A.E. Via, author, book, Book Reviews, gay, lgbtq, m/m romance, mmromance, new release, review, romance

Nothing Special VII: Ex Meridian by A.E. Via: Audiobook Review and Excerpt

August 23, 2020 by Denise

Police Lieutenants, God and Day are under intense pressure from the chief to take back control of Atlanta’s streets. The last thing their task force needs is a pair of trained killers in town with a personal score to settle. 

Take a man and strip him of his ability to feel compassion, empathy, remorse, or any of the emotions that make him human, but leave the ones that ignite rage and aggression and you have the perfect killing machine—now imagine two of them. 

Code names Ex and Meridian are synonymous for ‘guaranteed death’ to international terrorists. Two broken men from the same crooked streets, recruited into an unsanctioned government program that few know about. Trained to operate most efficiently—lethally—together. 

When Ex returns from an op in Bolivia to learn his little brother has been accidentally killed in a feud between drug gangs, he’s stateside before he can consider the rules he’ll be breaking, and of course Meridian is right beside him. There’s mayhem on the streets of Atlanta and the police are losing control. If Godfrey and his elite team of detectives can’t get the job done then they’d be happy to lighten their caseloads for them. And Ex nor Meridian care about doing it quietly. 

“I know who you are.” The man grunted when Ex turned to leave. “You’re the fucking devil.”

Meridian walked past, glaring one final time. “Say that loud enough… maybe God will save you.”

But after their first run-in with the big lieutenant and his protective husband, Day, Ex and Meridian start to reevaluate their own relationship. Wondering if they could be even deadlier if they let loose the feelings for each other that they’ve been forced to suppress for years. 

Meridian’s dark eyes stayed locked on his, “A man who can fight beside the one he loves doesn’t make him weaker, Ex—it makes him more dangerous.”

No multiple pairings. No cliffhangers. Ends with a HEA.
Note: This is a partners-to-lovers, out-for-you, action romance.

Title:  Nothing Special VII: Ex Meridian

Series: Nothing Special

Author: A.E. Via

Genre: M/M Action Romance

Publisher: Tantor

Narrator: Aiden Snow

Length: 9 Hours

Audio Release Date: 07.07.20

Audible

Amazon – Kindle Unlimited

Neither of them spoke while they ate. Ex never felt the need to fill their long moments of silence with idle words, and his partner wasn’t a big talker. Besides, Ex could enjoy Meridian by him simply being there. His presence was just that powerful. 

“So, what’s next?” Meridian asked after he’d pushed his empty plate to the side. 

Ex drank some of his water, the coolness feeling good to his parched throat, but he wished he had something stronger. He reclined in his seat, mimicking Meridian’s posture and trying to appear casual. 

“First and foremost, we go to Virginia and get our supplies. My contact there is ready for us, we should be in and out,”Ex explained. “Oay night. Of course, flying would be faster but we can better stay under the radar if we avoid TSA. Amtrak will be easiest to transport our cargo as well.”

“Works for me. He knows what we need?”

“Yes. As soon as we get back we can start to have some conversations around town. We’ll backtrack over the task force’s recent arrests and see what we can find. I also wanna keep an eye on that deputy district attorney. Something seems off there to me,” Ex said. 

“Agreed.”Meridian put his cigarette into his mouth and finally lit it. He blew the aromatic smoke away from Ex but he still caught the robust scent of cloves. 

Ex thought the smoking habit was atrocious, but he found he liked it when Meridian did it. The addiction made him seem less programmed. It was something his partner did when he was battling on the inside, and it was also something he only showed Ex. 

Meridian’s eyes were half covered by his long black eye lashes, appearing as if he was enjoying what he was doing. He had one arm braced on the back of the seat and Ex could see the shiny Italian silk lining of Meridian’s jacket and the butt of his chrome Wesson Valor resting against his rib cage.

This story was overwhelming and intense while I was reading it… but hearing it? Experiencing it through this deep voiced narration had me ON EDGE. In the best way of course, but I”ll tell ya, these two make God, Day and their crew of crazies, look like kittens compared to America’s most savage defenders. Ex and his partner Meridian are the types of guys they make movies about. Jason Bourne type of guys, chemically and physically modified to be killing machines for our country. They’re the baddest of the bad, because they’re basically robots… or they should be… but when Ex’s baby brother is killed in God’s neck of the woods, the guys go rogue in order to exact vengeance on his killers. Sounds cray, right?

And oooh, what a ride it is. These two have been through everything together, they’re like two halves of the same person, so naturally, when one wants revenge, the other is at his side. Being off on their own without their handler in their ear, Ex goes through the loss of one of the only few people in the world who ever meant something to him and it was messing with his head. He felt it. Which meant Meridian felt it as well.

It opened up all kinds of feelings he didn’t know he possessed, and the biggest of that, aside from anger, guilt and pure rage at the persons responsible for his brother’s death, is his love and need for his other half. Now, I’m a reader. I read and I narrate in my own mind and it’s good. I think I’ve got a good imagination on a good day… but hearing the emotion and the longing and the torture of doing what you feel you should and doing what you need, and it was a need… I had zero words. It honestly left me speechless and when in the world has that ever happened to me? I’ll tell ya, not often. 

it wasn’t one sided either, which I loved. Mere would do anything for Ex, including this off the radar mission to get justice for Ex’s baby brother. Unfortunately, it wasn’t as easy as getting in, getting messy and getting out… Nay, we were up against dirty DA’s, dirty cops and God and Day’s crew to get around, because as we know, if anything goes on in God’s city, he knows about it and he and his guys go above and beyond to stop it. It was fun to see God’s crew stumped for a change… it made things more exciting, though, it was a lot to handle. They weren’t prepared for how dangerous these guys are at first… And it all plays out like the most gloriously action packed audio.

I wish I could tell you this whole story…but honestly, it needs to be experienced first-hand. We get to see all the guys and their guys, we get the guns and explosions and heart-stopping emotions that I’m just not used to when I’m simply reading myself. It’s about a thousand times more intense because these guys don’t have rules, they don’t have red tape, they don’t have anyone to answer to… not even God and Day and Aiden Snow is a master at conveying every feeling you’re supposed to have and ones you weren’t even ready for. And this is coming from someone who doesn’t even like audio books! I wasn’t converted until I heard this narrator and I swear to you, every time, he’s different. 

And I’m borderline obsessed with these guys…They get in, they get messy and they get out, before anyone even knows they’ve been there. It was impressive and scary and it makes you think about how real these kinds of guys are and how terrifying it would be to come face to face with one, but how badly I want to do it anyway.

What a frickin ride this one. I’m still flummoxed lol I’m impressed and I cannot wait for Fox and Bull. Every book is my new favorite, though I still have such a soft spot for Ruxs and Green, and if you haven’t, you should listen to all of them too.  I have a feeling that we’ll be seeing more of these guys in the future, too, and I am READY for it!

Overall, I wouldn’t suggest skipping any book in this series, but if you do… make sure it isn’t this one. This one deserves all the stars. 

5 pieces of eye candy

A.E. Via has been a best-selling author in the beautiful gay romance genre for six years now, but she’s no stranger to MM. She’s been an avid reader of gay literature for over twenty years before she picked up her laptop to place her own kiss on this genre. She’s also the founder and owner of Via Star Wings Books, having published a couple great, new up and coming MM authors.  

A.E. has a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Virginia Wesleyan College that she used to start her own paralegal firm after she graduated in 2008. She spent five years preparing and filing bankruptcy petitions for struggling blue collar workers who couldn’t afford to file with a lawyer. It was a rewarding and satisfying career… but another path called to her. 

Writing. 

A.E.’s novels embodies everything from hopelessly romantic to adventure, to scandalous. Her stories often include intriguing edges and twists that take readers to new, thought-provoking depths. 

She’s recently celebrated her 20th book anniversary, and is well-known for her hardcore, love hard, bad boy, alphas. However, she does like to push herself to step out of her comfort zone, exploring different tropes. She’s head over heels for gay romance and she has tons of more hot stories to tell.  

Be sure to visit Adrienne on her social media pages and subscribe to her newsletter to never miss another release date! Go to A.E. Via’s official website http://authoraevia.com  for more detailed information on how to contact her, follow her, or a sneak peek at upcoming work, free reads, VSWB submissions, and where she’ll appear next. 

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48195130-bishop

Author Official Website: http://authoraevia.com

A.E. Newsletter Signup: https://goo.gl/4hfuMh

Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/aeviaauthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorAEVia

Filed Under: Audiobook Reviews, Book Excerpt, Book Review, New Release Review, Quick Reviews, TCO Reviewer: Jennifer Tagged With: 5 stars, A.E. Via, Audio Book, author, book, Book Excerpts, Book Reviews, excerpt, gay, lgbtq, m/m romance, new release, review, romance

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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

20 hours ago

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy
✨TEASER: BE MY VENGEANCE by @davidsonkingauthor releasing November 2nd!What you will find inside…🔥bi-awakening🔥unrequited love🔥pining🔥questionable morals🔥mafia romance🔥best friends to lovers🔥found family🔥rage & revenge🔥mm romanceAlex’s entire world fell apart in the most violent way possible, and now he seeks vengeance on every person who destroyed his happily ever after.Alex Walker’s life is all about revenge, and he doesn’t care if it takes him down with it. However, there are many people who love him and are willing to help him retaliate against those who took the love of his life away from him while keeping him alive. With his life on a path to self-destruction, it will take his best friend to push him out of the way and make him see that he’s not dead inside, he’s only just starting to live.Danny Brooks has been hopelessly in love with Alex for years. He watched him fall in love and get married, then lose it all. Danny had every intention of quietly pining for his best friend until the end of his days and for him to never find out. But secrets never stay under lock and key, and now Danny not only has to keep Alex alive, he’s also hoping he won’t lose the one person who means everything to him.With a war in their midst and bodies in their wake, Alex gradually learns to lean on Danny and accept his comfort while they navigate new emotions, dangerous situations, and try to build a forever that neither of them saw coming.Be My Vengeance is book 3 in the Be Mine series. This is not a standalone book. It’s recommended you read book 1 (Be My Monster) and book 2 (Be My Ruin) first.✨Catch up on book 1 & 2 in the Be Mine series, available in KU, before book 3 releases#davidsonking #mmromance The Author Agency ...

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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

20 hours ago

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy
✨TEASER: MY MERRY MÉNAGE by @lex.ambermm & @authorbecbenson releasing November 1st! Why you will love this book…❄️MMM holiday romance 🎁Established couple adds a third ❄️Cozy 🎁Very low angst ❄️Hookup Turns Into More 🎁Friends to LoversScottyIn my mid twenties an attractive couple moved down the hall from me and I was never subtle about my interest in them.On an amazing vacation fifteen years ago, I was lucky enough to actually live out my fantasy of hooking up with them and it was even better than I’d imagined.Shortly after, I met someone and we ended up moving across the country. Over the years, I lost touch with Joey and Patrick, but I’ve never forgotten that night with them.Now I’m forty, single, and back living in New York City. The last thing I expected after running into them was an invite to a cabin for the holidays or that their vacation hookup rule would still be in place.I’m definitely interested in reliving the best hookup of my life, even if I’m not sure how it will go after so many years apart, but there’s no way I’m turning down their offer.Looks like I’m packing my bags and heading to a snowy cabin in Vermont for what’ll probably be the steamiest Christmas I could ever agree too.My Merry Menage is a cozy, low angst MMM holiday romance where an established married couple adds a third to the relationship.#lexiamber #becbenson #holidayromance #mmmromance The Author Agency ...

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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

2 days ago

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy
✨TEASER: KNOCKED SIDEWAYS by @cagardnerwrites releasing October 22nd! Why you need to #ONECLICK this book…🔥Hockey Romance🔥LGBTQIA+🔥MM🔥Age Gap🔥Forced Proximity🔥Slow Burn🔥Hurt/Comfort🔥Gruff Lumberjack/Anxious Golden Retriever 🔥Chosen Family of Hockey BrosAs a rookie NHL defenseman, Remy Ladoux’s used to taking hits, but getting traded hurts.It’s bad enough that Remy has to leave his sister behind. Being dumped by his almost-boyfriend doesn’t make it any easier. And the hit that just might finish him off? His new teammate is also his long-time hockey idol, Jed Grant.Still, Remy’s not about to make waves by crushing on the goalie—even if Jed’s so hot that he melts Remy’s brain. And if Jed’s known for anything, it’s being rock-steady both on and off the ice. So it shouldn’t be a problem when Jed takes Remy under his wing.It turns out, though, that Jed’s not so rock-steady when Remy’s around. Remy’s smart and hardworking and eager to please, and for the first time in his life, Jed can’t help himself.Mentoring the gorgeous new rookie?Part of the job.Offering him a place to stay?No big deal, Jed’s done it before.Letting Remy fall asleep in his bed?That one’s a little harder to explain.Jed knows he’s getting in too deep, too fast. But Remy’s the first guy he can actually see a future with. He just hopes he’s not the only one who’s been knocked sideways.Knocked Sideways is a spicy, slow-burn m/m hockey romance between a gruff veteran goalie who thinks he’s happiest on his own and the sweet, sexy rookie who might just change his mind. It is the first in the Colorado Blizzards series and can be read as a stand-alone.✨INFLUENCERS: Sign up to review here: bit.ly/knockedsidewayssignup#cagardner #mmromance #hockeyromance The Author Agency ...

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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

3 days ago

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy
✨It’s cover reveal day for BLUEBIRD DAY by @ryecoxauthor releasing November 16th!What you will find inside…🔥Fake Boyfriend❄️Holiday Romance 🔥Slow Burn❄️Stranded Together on a ski lift🔥Sworn Off Love❄️Chinese MC🔥MM Romance There's always something to look forward to after a shitstorm.David LiuI thought nothing could be worse than being cheated on, then my ex proves me wrong by parading around his affair partner at our cousin's wedding.It's a week and a half long event at a ski lounge, and I'm stuck watching their sickening PDA. Not only that, my ex is set on rubbing his new relationship in my face at every chance he can get.As if things aren't complicated enough, my ex's other cousin offers himself as a buffer.Jensen lives abroad and is the free spirit of his family. I'm warned against him. He's known as a bit of a Casanova, and I allegedly fall in love with any man who can make me laugh (which I do not! I vow never to love again).But Jensen's more than just the funny guy who's helping me keep my ex off my back. The more time we spend together, the more I want to dive straight into complicated and forget all about my vow of singlehood.Even if it's all fake, I know he's mine to keep.Bluebird Day is a standalone fake dating MM holiday romance featuring endless banter, one nosy family, an MC who swore off love (who's he kidding?), stranded on a ski lift ;), and a slow burn that ends in the sweetest happily ever after.Cover Credit:Illustrations by Rho3x, Typography by Getcovers#coverreveal #ryecox #mmromance #holidayromance The Author Agency ...

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Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy

3 days ago

Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy
✨TEASER: EVERY NOVEMBER by @authorbecbenson releasing October 21st!Why you need to #ONECLICK this book…🔥hurt/comfort🔥hookups to lovers🔥long distance situationship🔥insta-lust/emotional slow burn🔥mental health themes/rep🔥marking🔥mutual piningTwo thousand miles. Eleven months. One night a year in a town neither of us lives in anymore.MARCUSGoing home is a performance. One I’ve rehearsed my whole life, even if I’m not sure why I keep showing back up.Then I met him.Evan is confident, happy, free in a way I’m immediately drawn to. Our chance encounter was only meant to be a one-time thing – a way for us to blow off some steam while we were both in town for the holiday.But three years later, I find myself looking forward to going home in a way I never thought possible. Evan is the first good thing in my life in a long time. Which is exactly how I know it won't last.EVANI have a great life in Seattle with good friends and my dream job, but it still feels like something is missing.Maybe it’s being so far from my family. Going home to see them is always one of the highlights of my year.Even more so since meeting Marcus.I know our situation is meant to be a holiday fling, but after three years of hotel rooms and opening up to each other in a way that feels like so much more, it’s hard not to wonder what we could be – if he’d give us the chance.Are we strong enough to survive the distance, or is one night a year all we’ll ever get?Every November is a standalone MM romance with a long-distance situationship, mutual pining, and hurt/comfort themes. HEA guaranteed.#becbenson #hookuptoloversromance The Author Agency ...

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