Audio Book

Fire and Agate by Andrew Grey: Audiobook Review

August 2, 2019 by Denise

When Chris Anducci is moved off jail duty and into the sheriff’s office, he doesn’t expect his first assignment to be protecting a witness against a human-trafficking ring. Knowing the new sheriff doesn’t abide screwups, Chris reluctantly agrees to work the case.

Pavle Kasun has spent the last four years of his life at the mercy of others. When an opportunity presented itself, he took it, resulting in his rescue. Now, the safe houses he’s placed in are being threatened, and he needs protection if he is to have any sort of chance at a life.

Chris opens his home to Pavle, but he doesn’t expect Pavle and his story to get under his skin…and stay there. Soon, they discover they have more in common than either of them thought. Slowly, Pavle comes out of his shell, and Chris finds someone who touches his heart. But as the men looking for Pavle close in, they will stop at nothing to get him out of the way. Even if Chris can keep him safe, he might not be able to protect his heart if Pavle moves back home.

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I love this series so I wasn’t surprised that I liked this one as well. Andrew Grey has a unique way of taking a sensitive subject and painting the picture so that it’s bearable and not so dark.

Chris is newly promoted to the sheriff’s office and his first real assignment is a favor to the Carlisle PD. Keep their human trafficking victim, Pavle safe until he can help the DEA, FBI and every other three letter agency identify his keepers. Chris will need to find a way to keep Pavle save without making it seem that he’s just exchanged one prison for another and without any of those pesky feelings getting in the way for the strong, enigmatic man.

The story was entertaining and enjoyable. The characters were well developed as was the storyline. I love that we get to catch up with old characters like Red and Terry. The audio performance was perfect, as is to be expected from Greg Tremblay. He didn’t get to be one of my go-to narrators for no reason. This was the perfect way to spend 6 hours.

4 Pieces of Candy

Lucky Town (Badlands 1.5) by Morgan Brice: Audio Book Tour and Review

July 15, 2019 by Denise

Psychic medium Simon Kincaide and his boyfriend, Myrtle Beach homicide Detective Vic D’Amato, find that the only thing more frightening than murder might be navigating their first holiday season as a couple.

A trip back to Pittsburgh to spend Thanksgiving with Vic’s large, exuberant family means dodging old frenemies and a bitter ex-boyfriend. A cold case comes back to haunt Vic when a murdered woman’s ghost begs Simon for justice. Then a new murder back in Myrtle Beach looks suspiciously familiar, and the dead man’s ghost isn’t playing nice.

When Simon gets a vision of the next victim before the crime occurs, he realizes that all the murders are supernaturally linked. Catching the murderer will take his psychic sleuthing skills along with Vic’s street smarts to avert a tragedy.

Can they do right by ghosts past, present, and yet to come without ending up in the crosshairs of a killer for Christmas?

Book Title: Lucky Town (Badlands #1.5)

Author: Morgan Brice

Publisher: Tantor

Narrator: Kale Williams

Release Date: March 29, 2019

Genre: Urban Fantasy, MM paranormal romance

Trope/s: Established relationship

Themes: Commitment and trust

Heat Rating: 4 flames

Length: 3 hours and 9 minutes

It’s the second in a series, but it can be read alone

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I found the audiobook of Badlands (Book 1) by accident. I hadn’t heard of the series, the author or the narrator. But I had an audible credit burning a whole in my pocket, so I took a chance, because I have been burning through mysteries lately. I really enjoyed book 1. I loved Kale Williams’ narration of what was already a good story…I even took it outside (which I never do with audiobooks) while I was cutting down a ton of trees in the backyard. So, I knew that I wanted another chance at Simon and Vic.

Vic honestly took me a while to even like in book 1. However, once we got there, I enjoyed how he cared for Simon, and yet still let him be his own man, recognizing his gifts, and letting him be the person he was. And it continued to show in Lucky Town. Vic’s close knit family was the perfect offset for Simon’s challenging one. By wrapping Simon into their fold, it helped to enhance their new family of two.

Of course, the mystery wrapped up nicely, utilizing the skills of both sleuths to catch and disarm the killer. I do enjoy how Morgan throws in unexpected little glitches in the mysteries. Ones that wouldn’t happen in a “normal” setting, but since Simon has psychic skills, then it can be whatever the author chooses to do.

The narrator did another good job of keeping distinct voices as he read, and allowed the story to play out. I am enjoying Kale’s narration, and am looking forward to listening to more of his work.

Lucky Town is a fun town I wouldn’t mind revisiting again and again, no matter where these two men end up.

4 pieces of eye candy

Morgan Brice is the romance pen name of bestselling author Gail Z. Martin. Morgan writes urban fantasy male/male paranormal romance, with plenty of action, adventure and supernatural thrills to go with the happily ever after. Gail writes epic fantasy and urban fantasy, and together with co-author hubby Larry N. Martin, steampunk and comedic horror, all of which have less romance, more explosions. Characters from her Gail books make frequent appearances in secondary roles in her Morgan books, and vice versa.

On the rare occasions Morgan isn’t writing, she’s either reading, cooking, or spoiling two very pampered dogs.

Other books include Witchbane, Dark Rivers, Badlands, Lucky Town, The Rising, Treasure Trail. Watch for more in these series, plus new series coming soon!

Join my Worlds of Morgan Brice Facebook Group! Get the early scoop on upcoming books and new series, see new covers first, enjoy insider news and special contests and giveaways! Plus it’s where I get my beta readers and launch team!

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Nothing Special by A.E. Via: Audiobook Review

June 13, 2019 by Denise

Detective Cashel “Cash” Godfrey is big, tattooed, and angry so people typically keep their distance. He’s fresh out of the police academy, however, no one is looking to partner with the six-foot-four beast with a huge chip on his shoulder and an inability to trust. When Cash scans the orientation room he wasn’t expecting to find sexy hazel eyes locked onto him. Eyes of the handsome Detective Leonidis “Leo” Day.

Leo is charming, witty, hilariously sarcastic and the only one that can make Cash smile. He’s proud, out, and one bad-ass detective.

Together, Cash and Leo become the most revered and successful narcotics detectives Atlanta’s ever seen. Able to communicate and understand each other, without even having to voice it, they quickly climb up the promotional ranks.

When Cash saves Leo’s life in a raid that turns deadly, Leo begins to see something in the big man that no one else does…something special. But Leo fears he’ll never break through the impenetrable wall that protects Cash’s heart.

Audible

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I love this series, it’s at the top of re-read list. So, imagine my excitement when Mrs. Via said she was working to put it out in audio format. I may have fangirled a little.

God and Day and two of the most entertaining and lovable characters I have ever read. They are funny, caring, compassionate and tough as nails. Not only do we get to see God and Day transition from partners are work to partners at home, we also get to ride along with some of their hilarious antics on the job. This story has it all; jokes, gun fights, closeted co-workers, and just enough of a sad backstory to balance out the story.

If ever there was a man that was made to be the voice of Detective Cashel Godfrey it was Aiden Snow. His voice is the perfect mix of deep rumbles and smooth honey. He was able to bring to life a story that I have read too many times to count and make me fall in love with it all over again. It was almost like reading it for the first time. I can’t wait to see what magic he brings to Embracing His Syn.

5 Pieces of Eye Candy

His Consort by Mary Calmes: Audiobook Review

June 11, 2019 by Denise

A new life in New Orleans is all Jason Thorpe had hoped: His quaint little store attracts a devoted staff, and his warm, loving heart grants him a loyal circle of friends. He’s perfectly content, having left behind the chill of a confusing and danger-filled night in Washington, until he discovers something unbelievable lurking in the steamy darkness of the shadowy streets of the Vieux Carré, something that turns out to be terrifying…and utterly mesmerizing.

The prince of the vampires, Varic Maedoc, is visiting New Orleans when he finds out the man who once helped his counselor is there in the Quarter. He thinks to simply meet and thank Jason – until he lays eyes on him. Varic’s devoted himself to protect the honor of his race, and he’s never wanted a mate before…but he immediately knows he must have this man, and no one else will do.

Varic may want to bring Jason safely into his world, but someone who doesn’t like the human’s soothing influence on vampires has deadly plans that would disrupt Varic’s dreams. Now, unable to tell friend from foe, Jason finds himself wondering how to hold on to the prince’s heart when he’s fighting for his life.

Title: His Consort
Author: Mary Calmes
Narrator: Scott Smith
Release Date: December 20, 2018
Category: Vampires
Length: 6 hours, 33 minutes

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I am a huge fan of Mary Calmes, I will read or listen to just about anything she writes. When I saw His Consort I was a little skeptical, I have a hard time finding vampire stories that keep my interest. I feel like most of them are too cliche, almost campy.
This one grabbed my interest from the first word. The story itself was entertaining with just the right amount of intrigue to keep my interest peaked. Mary’s vampyrs introduce you to a whole new vocabulary which at first I thought was going to be difficult to remember because, hey I’m listening and my memory is crap, but I didn’t have a problem.

I haven’t had the pleasure of listening to anything else narrated by Scott Smith, but holy cow that voice. He gives life to Varic Maedoc like I don’t think anyone else could. His voice is cultures and smooth as honey. His voice has a rich cadence that draws you in.

I can’t say enough good things about both the story writing and the narration, both are amazing. I’ve already read almost everything by Mary Calmes, I will definitely be looking up more work by Scott Smith.

4.5 Pieces of Eye Candy

With A Kick (Collection #2) by Clare London, Narrated by Joel Leslie: Audiobook Review

April 29, 2019 by Denise

This collection includes Clare London‘s second two charming London-based novellas of the With A Kick series – Pluck and Play, and Double Scoop.

Read the enthusiastic reviews at the individual book pages!

WITH A KICK: A new and enticing ice cream franchise, with a unique blend of full flavour, mischief and romance. Patrick and Lee are struggling to make a success of their alcoholic ice cream shop in the centre of tourist London. At the same time, their business partnership may take a turn towards the personal – if either of them can find the time and nerve to go for it! Meanwhile, they cater to the wild and wonderful range of customers in the area, many of whom have their own romantic agenda. Will ice cream be the final ingredient they’re all looking for?

Each story is a self-contained romance, but will follow the history of the shop throughout.

PLUCK AND PLAY: Curtis is a cheery young entrepreneur, secretly licking his wounds after being beaten up by his ex-lover. Handsome cowboy Riley is stranded in London without money. His consolation is his music, and his fascination is Curtis. Their music brings them together, Riley’s guitar and Curtis’ poetry. But when Curtis is threatened by his ex-lover, Riley intends to be the man to help.

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DOUBLE SCOOP: A sudden disaster strikes the novelty ice cream shop, With A Kick, threatening the livelihood of its owner, Patrick, and also his assistant Lee. The last thing in the world Patrick wants is to hurt Lee, but deeply-held insecurities prevent him from confessing his love. And how long will Lee wait to make his own move? Hopefully the disaster brings a new opportunity for them to make a go of things.

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Book Title: With A Kick Collection #2

Author: Clare London

Publisher: Jocular Press

Narrator: Joel Leslie

Release Date: April 2, 2019

Genre: Contemporary M/M Romance

Trope/s: Opposites attract, friends to lovers

Themes: Diverse romances, May/Dec, finding community

Heat Rating: 4 flames

Length: 8 hours 58 minutes

Includes 2 standalone novellas with a connecting arc

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Listen to an excerpt on SoundCloud

Collection #1 has also been released, featuring Clare London’s first two novellas, A Twist and Two Balls and Slap and Tickle, and also the two bonus short stories Nice and Snow and Smack Happy.

Romance, London, and alcoholic ice cream – what’s not to love?

When I see Clare London pop up for anything, I am always willing to give it a go. Clare writes smart, sassy and fun characters. When you then have Joel Leslie as narrator, and especially doing English accents….there is no chance I am walking away. He is a true performer, and how he can take 8 different characters in one book, all with very different dialects, accents, and personalities, and turn them into completely different people in my eyes is always amazing to me. I’m not sure I’ve heard him do the same voice twice ever. (Well, if you don’t count that one…) 😉

Clare’s stories are often novella length, and her characters have such differing backgrounds, yet they manage to find each other in a city the size of London. There’s always an element of fun in them, and these two stories had all of that. (As an aside, I really would like With a Kick to be real, and I want to visit it very much!). These two novellas were at opposite ends of the spectrum. Pluck and Play was two men meeting by happenstance, falling in lust, and being torn apart by someone from Curtis’s past. Meanwhile, Double Scoop was friends to lovers, with Patrick unable to get out of his own way enough to love sweet Lee.

These novellas, though, were even more about true friends, and what they will do to help each other through the tough times. These friends did not allow each other to fall, they were always there to catch them, or to help them fall in love. Made for very satisfying endings, and a craving for more.

Story: 3.75 pieces of eye candy

Narration: 4 pieces of eye candy

Clare London took her pen name from the city where she lives, loves, and writes. A lone, brave female in a frenetic, testosterone-fuelled family home, she juggles her writing with her other day job as an accountant.

She’s written in many genres and across many settings, with award-winning novels and short stories published both online and in print. She says she likes variety in her writing while friends say she’s just fickle, but as long as both theories spawn good fiction, she’s happy. Most of her work features male/male romance and drama with a healthy serving of physical passion, as she enjoys both reading and writing about strong, sympathetic, and sexy characters.

Clare currently has several novels sulking at that tricky chapter-three stage and plenty of other projects in mind… she just has to find out where she left them in that frenetic, testosterone-fuelled family home.

Clare loves to hear from readers, and you can contact her on all her social media.

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Badlands by Morgan Brice: Audiobook Review Tour

April 18, 2019 by Denise

Medium and clairvoyant Simon Kincaide owns a Myrtle Beach boardwalk shop where he runs ghost tours, holds séances, and offers private psychic readings, making a fresh start after his abilities cost him his lover and his job as a folklore professor. Jaded cop Vic D’Amato saw something supernatural he couldn’t explain during a shootout several years ago in Pittsburgh and relocated to Myrtle Beach to leave the past behind, still skeptical about the paranormal. But when the search for a serial killer hits a dead end, Vic battles his skepticism to ask Simon for help. As the body count rises, Simon’s involvement makes him a target, and a suspect. But Simon can’t say no, even if it costs him his life and heart.

A psychic medium and a skeptical cop solve supernatural murders in Myrtle Beach

Book Title: Badlands

Author: Morgan Brice

Publisher: Darkwind Press

Narrator: Kale Williams

Release Date: March 12, 2019

Genre/s: Urban Fantasy, MM paranormal romance

Trope/s: Second chance, wary acquaintances to lovers, detective/mystery, supernatural creatures

Themes: Learning to trust, regaining faith in your own abilities

Heat Rating: 4 flames

Length: 8 hours 20 minutes

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I do like paranormal stories that involve psychics/mediums, etc. And this one really was a good story. The story didn’t overwhelm with the psychic abilities of the MC, or his “skeleton crew”. It was just a part of who they were, even if most of the crew tried to avoid it.

Vic having had a bad paranormal experience previously was tough to turn around, and I did have a hard time with Simon still falling in love with Vic, even as he showed absolutely no belief in Simon’s abilities. It led me to feeling that if you can’t trust all of the person, then you should trust none of the person.

Simon’s independence was admirable, despite all the times he was threatened. However, I did find the reasoning for the killings somewhat unbelievable, like something out of a horror movie. It seemed difficult to believe that it could or would happen, or that someone would believe such a thing.

The storyline, the characters–both MC’s and the side characters–really drew me in, though, and I look forward to seeing where these men take their relationship, and Simon’s new working relationship.

The narration wasn’t quite my cup of tea. It didn’t draw me in as much as other narrators, simply because I didn’t find a lot of voice variation. I’d have liked a bit more emotion told through the voice, not just the words. However, I did appreciate the narrator’s enunciation, as well as word pronounciation.

Story: 4 pieces of eye candy

Narration: 3 pieces of eye candy