Random Review: Romance Redefined by SJD Peterson #Review #Giveaway

Author: SJD Peterson
Book: Romance Redefined
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Cover Artist: Reese Dante
Publication Date: November 27, 2017
Length: 200 pages

Reviewed by Erin

Synopsis

Opposites attract, but are some differences too drastic for a romance to survive?

On the surface, Benson Howard Winthrop III and Hugh Bayard have a lot in common: they’re young, handsome, and blessed to be one of the wealthiest couples in the country. Surely they have everything anyone could want. But Ben is no longer satisfied with their long-running relationship. Hugh’s need to control every situation is suffocating him, and Ben needs to know if he can make it on his own merits by following his passion.

But Ben’s mother isn’t about to let her son live in a rundown apartment as a struggling actor. She’s determined to get him back to his rightful place at the top of the social ladder—and back with Hugh.

Rekindling their romance will require more than doing what’s expected. Ben and Hugh need to understand and embrace each other’s differences. They’ll have to support each other even when one makes a decision the other doesn’t agree with. For their passionate love to grow, they will need to redefine the meaning of romance… only then can they find true happiness.

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Dreamspinner Press

Amazon

Review

I am one of those readers that is a lover of angst. Sure, I enjoy those sweet and fluffy books that leave you all warm and smiley, but I REALLY enjoy when the main characters have to work hard for their happily ever after. The bumpier the better I say, which is why when I read the blurb for SJD Peterson's new book, Romance Redefined, I was sure this was going to be right up my alley. Well, suffice it to say that while there was some angst and Ben and Hugh DID have to work to get their HEA, this one was not my cup of tea.

Romance Redefined is the story of Ben and Hugh. There's also a Jason. Ben and Hugh have been married for 10 years and from the outside appear to have a relationship anyone would envy. Too bad the only thing Ben can think about doing is leaving, which he does. He's tired of Hugh's controlling nature and not following his own dream so he runs away to New York City to become the actor he's always dreamed of being. Ugh. I don't even know what to say about all of this. Since the book is told exclusively from Ben's perspective, we only know his thoughts and feelings and honestly, he isn't all that likeable. He comes off selfish, immature, and spoiled. When Ben finally lands an acting job, we meet Jason, who in all honesty I liked the most out of all the characters and was hoping that he and Ben would wind up together, thus the love triangle vibe of the book. Too bad Ben is still in love with Hugh and can't and won't move on.

I had a hard time finishing the book to be honest. I wasn't invested in Ben and Hugh's relationship, Ben's mother is a ridiculous caricature of an upper-class woman used to getting her way, and there wasn't enough on page time of Ben and Hugh to even care if they got back together. This could totally be a case of it's not the book it's me, so give Romance Redefined a try and see what you think.  

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Release Day Review: Remember When by SJD Peterson #Review #Giveaway

Author: SJD Peterson
Book: Remember When
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Cover Artist: Garrett Leigh
Publication date: August 28, 2017
Length: 210 pages


Reviewed by Jenn


Synopsis

Life is simple and hopeful in youth. Luke and Nelson are best friends exploring their budding sexuality. They have big plans for the future, and nothing can stand in their way or tear them apart—except a family move that puts a continent between them.

Ten years later Luke and Nelson meet again, but nothing is simple anymore. As strong as the attraction remains, obligations and expectations come between them as Luke is forced to honor family responsibilities over the desires of his heart.

Impossibly fate sees fit to offer them a last opportunity to see what might have been. Will the third time be the charm, or is trust so badly broken it is impossible to repair? Can they recapture the innocent love they once knew and make up for all the wasted years? In a love story that spans half a lifetime, two friends destined for each other will have to fight hard for their happily ever after.

Buy Links

Dreamspinner Press

Amazon

Review

This book spoke to the unwavering romantic in me! It's a story of how young, first love really can be the love that lasts a lifetime.

Luke and Nelson are next door neighbors and have been best friends since they were five. As they get a little older they begin to explore their sexuality together, always remaining best friends first. When the boys are 13, Luke's family moves to California and their friendship slips away with the distance.

10 years later, the two see each other again in an airport. What are the chances that they are both traveling to the same city, staying in the same hotel? Fate seems to have brought them back together. The boys, now young men quickly pick up where they left off. 10 years have passed and they still can finish each other's sentences. The exploring they did with each as adolescents has now turned into a full blown attraction. Nelson and Luke live across the country from each other, but both have faith that they're building something special. Life intervenes once more and tears them apart. Nelson doesn't know if he'll survive this heartache again.

Fate steps in again. Nelson has made his professional dreams come true and through work, runs into Luke years later. These two have so much between them, good and bad. Love, loss, fear and that same spark are all there. Fate seems to keep pushing them together.  Will they take another chance at finally getting their first love right? 

This book pulled me right in. I ached for these boys, I cheered for them, I got angry with them! Mostly, I just wanted to see them together! I love second chance stories, this time, I saw what happens when you miss that chance too. First love can still be your last love, if you're willing to fight for it.

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Release Day Review: Something's Brewing at Joe's by SJD Peterson #Review #Giveaway

Author: SJD Peterson
Book: Something's Brewing at Joe's
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Cover Artist: Reese Dante
Publication date: June 30, 2017
Length: 200 pages

Reviewed by Morningstar

Synopsis

The promise of a dream job lures Murphy to Tampa, but he arrives to the rude awakening that the offer is on hold. Now he’s got two choices: slink back to Michigan with his tail between his legs or stay and look for work. Things perk up when he goes into a coffee shop and learns the owner is looking for someone to renovate the apartment above it. He happily takes the job, only later realizing he’s met Joe Sterling, Kaffeinate’s proprietor, before… when they hooked up at a club Murphy’s first night in Tampa.

Murphy and Joe are both proud, passionate, and outspoken. Neither is looking for a relationship, though they can’t deny they go together as well as coffee and doughnuts, in spite of their tempers. But that’s before Joe learns Murphy will be working for the corporation he believes is harming local businesses and the environment—and if Murphy will be supporting it, Joe will want nothing to do with him, dooming any possibility of an unexpected happy ending.

Buy Links

Dreamspinner Press

Amazon

Review

I struggled a lot in this book to like Murphy, to connect with him in a way that would get me to care enough that he got his happy ending. He was snappy and short with people. Yes always apologizing but what’s the point of saying “I'm Sorry” just to repeat the same behavior again?

I’m the type of reader that struggles to finish a story if I truly cannot stand a character which I do have to say rarely ever happens. Often I don’t connect with them but out and out not like them hardly ever happens. It happened here which made reading this book frustrating.

The other part that was particularly annoying was the sex. There was a lot of it, too much to call this a story with plot and characterization. I love sex in my books. Prefer it, really. But it has to have meaning and help further the plot. Here it does tell you what their relationship is, a hook up basically.  But the author didn’t give the words or time in the story to fall in love with the characters falling in love. Which also turns into that moment when you can’t feel their
connection, their love for each other.

And a big pet peeve...no communication. I get it in some rare cases, but here it made me think if they kept their toy in their pants they could've talked more. Lack of communication seems like a cop out for characters. The struggle should feel more believable, and it’s the author's job to sell it. I wasn’t sold.

The writing was good as it is in all SJD’s books and if you want a hot and heavy, light read this one could be for you. 

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Release Day Review: Limitless by SJD Peterson #Review #Giveaway

Author: SJD Peterson
Book: Limitless
Series: The Underground Club #2
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publication date: December 2, 2016
Length: 200 pages




Reviewed by Erin


Synopsis

Even within the context of the Underground BDSM Club, Joshua’s desires are dark and extreme. Hopelessly addicted to pain and the high it gives him, he has no limits. Joshua would quite literally rather die than use a safeword, and he accepts that might be his fate. As much as he depends on others, he has yet to find a man who can gain his trust, and he has little hope that he ever will.

For Nash, acquiring Joshua from another Dom at the club is only the first step in what will be a long and arduous road to lure the young man back from the brink of self-destruction. He must do the impossible and win Joshua’s trust, and he must be the one to set limits in their exploration—something he’s unaccustomed to as a Dom. But Nash knows dominance doesn’t always mean pushing a submissive’s boundaries. It’s about establishing a bond and fulfilling another man’s needs. In Joshua’s case, he’ll have to strike a balance between meeting the young man’s expectations and drawing firm lines that will save Joshua from himself.

Buy Links:

Dreamspinner Press

Amazon

Review

Limitless by S.J.D. Peterson is the second book in her Underground Club series, but don't let that worry you if you haven't read the first one. This book totally works well as a stand alone and you will not be lost in the least if you start here. If you like stories about wounded, broken subs and Dom's who have a heart of gold but are no nonsense then this book will definitely be for you. I have to say, I enjoyed Limitless much more than I did the first book and I'm so glad I decided to give this one a try. With that gorgeous cover, really, who could resist?

Nash is a Dom at Club Underground and is highly respected. He's a  tough master, but he's a man who expects a lot and knows what he wants. And what he wants is Joshua. The only problem is, Joshua belongs to someone else. This doesn't stop Nash though, and after an investigation based on Nash's gut instinct that Joshua isn't being treated in the way he should by his Dom, Nash finds himself in charge of Joshua's care. You'd think this would make Nash happy, and it does, but Joshua is one very, VERY messed up sub. He's got a wall built around himself that is almost impenetrable. Nash is more than up for the challenge however and with some gentle but firm prodding and a few very intense BDSM scenes, Nash and Joshua begin to find their way. The road ahead isn't easy. Joshua is a hot mess and Nash questions himself with every setback Joshua has. But these two together? I loved their dynamic.

Unlike the first book, I was really invested in both these characters from the get go. I always love reading about a dominant who is both strict and loving and who is in tune with his sub on more than a sexual level. Taking on a submissive with the myriad of problems that Joshua has is no easy task and I really appreciated how Peterson did not allow BDSM to be the cure-all for Joshua. I was not a fan of getting to 80% of the book and STILL having very little of Joshua's background. From bits and pieces it's not too difficult to surmise that he's been traumatized but the specifics are still left unanswered, even at the end of the book. And well, the ending, while sweet, was definitely abrupt and the readers are left with so many questions. All in all though, this was a fun book. The sex scenes were hot and written well, both characters were engaging, and Malcom's numerous appearances were most welcome (I LOVE him ... I hope he's getting his own book!). Check this one out guys. I'm looking forward to seeing where this series goes.

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Release Day Review: Override by SJD Peterson #Review #Giveaway

Author: SJD Peterson
Book: Override
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Publication date: August 31, 2016
Length: 212 pages



Reviewed by Erin



Synopsis

Don’t judge a book by its cover….

At over six feet, with a body honed in the gym, auto worker Donavan Gregory is used to people assuming he’s a dominant top. Unfortunately, they’re wrong, and Donavan’s desire to explore his submissive side goes unfulfilled.

Smaller and older than Donavan, Doctor Seth Manning might not look like a typical dominant, but when the two men meet at Pride, Donavan realized Seth might be his perfect counterpart. The trouble is, Donavan doesn’t have as much experience with the BDSM world as he’d like. What could an educated, handsome, and confident man like Seth possibly see in someone like him? Seth must convince him that despite the differences on the surface, when it comes to kinky fun and discovery, they’ll fit together just fine.

Buy Links

Dreamspinner Press

Amazon

Review

When I saw that SJD Peterson was starting a new series, I was really excited. I loved her Guards of Folsom series (especially Blake and Ty) so there is no doubt that SJD can write BDSM and do it well. Unfortunately, Override didn't live up to my expectations. I was so disappointed. There is a noticeable lack of chemistry between the two main characters, and with the exception of a bit of low self confidence on the part of Donavan and a bit of over the top and contrived (and confusing) drama at the end, there really wasn't much to this story to keep me interested. 

There are things to like about this book, though. Donavan Gregory isn't your average submissive. He's tall, he's built, and just looking at him no one would ever think he craves to be dominated. I'm a big fan of going against stereotypes so seeing this in the blurb grabbed my attention right off the bat. I also really liked that he's just an everyday kind of guy. He works in a factory, he works out after work with his best friend, Cain. He adores his mother, he plays poker with his friends, and likes to hang out and drink beer. I liked all that, a lot. I also liked that Dr. Seth Manning is slight and much smaller than Donavan. I also really enjoyed Seth's family. His brothers were funny, his sister is lovely, and his parents are supportive and sweet. 

Besides some pretty hot sex, of which tying someone up and telling them not to come until you say so does not BDSM make, there wasn't much else to the story. There isn't a mention of safewords until well after Donavan and Seth begin their relationship, and by that time, I felt like the BDSM part of things was more play acting than genuine. It all felt forced and I didn't buy into it at all. I much preferred them just cuddling on the couch and eating dinner. Those parts I enjoyed greatly. There is also a phrase that's used very early in the book that took me right out of the first sex scene and really kept me from enjoying any of them from that point on. I'm all for dirty talk, sometimes the dirtier the better, but this time, it just so did not work. And a personal quibble, the way Donavan's name is spelled made me cringe every time I saw it. Of course names and their spelling's are totally the author's prerogative, but this one really just grated on me. 

All in all, I think this might be a case of it's me and not the book. If you like your books with mostly fluff and next to no drama (or anything else but sex) then I suggest you give this book a try. And that cover? It's gorgeous, and might be enough to make me check out the next book in the series and hope for a win.

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BEST BEAR BOOKS PART ONE

Since the best Halloween books was such a success I decided to keep going. I asked everyone on social media what their favorite BEAR BOOKS were. Not the fuzzy animals, the OTHER BEAR. You all, again, came out full force to weigh in. Here's what YOU the people think are the Best Bear Books: Here is Part One...

Bear, Otter, and the Kid by TJ Klune:

Three years ago, Bear McKenna’s mother took off for parts unknown with her new boyfriend, leaving Bear to raise his six-year-old brother Tyson, aka the Kid. Somehow they’ve muddled through, but since he’s totally devoted to the Kid, Bear isn’t actually doing much living—with a few exceptions, he’s retreated from the world, and he’s mostly okay with that. Until Otter comes home.

Otter is Bear’s best friend’s older brother, and as they’ve done for their whole lives, Bear and Otter crash and collide in ways neither expect. This time, though, there’s nowhere to run from the depth of emotion between them. Bear still believes his place is as the Kid’s guardian, but he can’t help thinking there could be something more for him in the world... something or someone.
BUY LINKS:
DSP
Amazon

Nothing Special by A.E. Via

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.

Nothing Special takes the reader through various emotions throughout the richly fulfilling plot that’s full of erotic gay romance, heartache, passion, trials and tribulations, police action scenes, and an intriguing twist that comes to an amazing ending that’s impossible to see coming.

BUY LINKS:
Amazon 
B&N 

Inside Out by Andrew Grey

Former mercenary Bull Krebbs now heads up security at his nightclub in Harrisburg, PA. Working the door night after night, he's seen it all. Though tough on the outside, he's a little hurt that people find him unapproachable. Then he pulls a cute twink out of line to perform a random search, and he's surprised when the guy giggles and squirms.

Zach Spencer, graphic artist, twink, and seriously ticklish, isn't intimidated by Bull. He's in awe, and when Bull saves Zach from being trampled on the dance floor, Zach finds his inspiration for the superhero in his graphic novel.

Soon Zach wants more and makes his move by asking Bull on a date. Though small, he has a backbone of steel. He'll need it—their happily ever after is thwarted at every turn, including by Bull's interloping mother showing up unannounced and enemies from Bull's past threatening to pull him to the other side of the world.

BUY LINKS:
Amazon 
DSP 

Upside Down by Andrew Grey

Lowell Cartwright’s life as a mercenary problem solver has taken its toll, and after one more difficult job, he wants out. For help, he turns to Bull, a soldier of fortune turned club owner—not exactly a friend, but the best chance Lowell has. He visits Bull’s club to scope it out and meets Jeremy Hodgson. The twink captures his attention in a big way. Bull tells Lowell to stay away from the club until he decides whether he can help, so Lowell stays in town. When he spots Jeremy passed out on the floor of a convenience store, he goes to Jeremy’s aid.

Lowell piques Jeremy’s interest immediately, pushing all the right buttons. Then, when Jeremy needs help, Lowell’s kindness turns interest into something more.

But trouble comes knocking when Jeremy’s place is bugged. Maybe Lowell’s past is catching up to him, or maybe the danger centers on Jeremy’s roommate Tristan’s mysterious boyfriend. Whatever the source of the problem, the future Lowell and Jeremy hope for doesn't stand a chance unless they can find a way to protect themselves.

BUY LINKS:
Amazon 
DSP 

Tag Team by SJD Peterson (Book 2 in the Guardians of Folsom Series)

Following the death of their sub, the former owners of the Guards of Folsom, Robert “Bobby” Alcott and Rig Beckworth, were left to pick up the pieces as best they could. After seven years, these two Doms are ready to move on and find the boy who will complete them. Their painful past comes crashing back when they meet Mason Howard, a submissive who just weeks ago lost his Doms in a car accident.


Reeling from overwhelming grief that’s complicated by a severe social anxiety disorder, Mason can barely leave his home. When Rig and Bobby find him, he’s hit rock bottom, believing life is no longer worth living. Bobby and Rig set out to prove the younger man wrong. Fate has brought the three men together, but they’ll have to face fear and loss head on before they can all truly live again.

BUY LINKS:
Amazon 
DSP 

  
Let It Snow by Heidi Cullinan

The weather outside is frightful, but this Minnesota northwoods cabin is getting pretty hot.

Stylist Frankie Blackburn never meant to get lost in Logan, Minnesota, but his malfunctioning GPS felt otherwise, and a record-breaking snowfall ensures he won’t be heading back to Minneapolis anytime soon. Being rescued by three sexy lumberjacks is fine as a fantasy, but in reality the biggest of the bears is awfully cranky and seems ready to gobble Frankie right up.

Marcus Gardner wasn’t always a lumberjack—once a high-powered Minneapolis lawyer, he’s come home to Logan to lick his wounds, not play with a sassy city twink who might as well have stepped directly out of his past. But as the northwinds blow and guards come down, Frankie and Marcus find they have a lot more in common than they don’t. Could the man who won’t live in the country and the man who won’t go back to the city truly find a home together? Because the longer it snows, the deeper they fall in love, and all they want for Christmas is each other.

BUY LINKS:
Amazon 
Samhain Publishing