Monday, July 31, 2017

Still Waters (Sanctuary book 4) by R.J. Scott | Tams Audiobook Review & #giveaway @Rjscott_author @seancrisden

Still Waters 
Sanctuary book 4

Adam has a new assignment for Sanctuary. It means working with the man who did not trust him two years ago and destroyed their relationship. He still hates Lee, but Jake Callahan, boss of Sanctuary, does not give him a choice, insisting they need to get along for the good of the cross agency case.
Lee wants desperately to understand why Adam betrayed the Bureau. He is still angry and disappointed, but the memory will not leave him alone. The Bullen case is the perfect cover to get back in his ex-lover's life, and he is determined to find out the truth.
Against the backdrop of Sanctuary and the Bullen case, can they learn to understand and believe that not everything they thought was true was real?
©2017 Diane Fisher writing as RJ Scott (P)2017 RJ Scott
Tams gives this one 4 Stars...

"Don't believe everything you see."
Where does Still Waters rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?
I couldn't wait to listen to this book as I've listened to all the previous stories in the series. I loved the concept of the story, once lovers, now enemies, can they become lovers again?

What was one of the most memorable moments of Still Waters?
When Lee finally figures out what actually happened two years ago.

Have you listened to any of Sean Crisden’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
I purchase books simply because he narrates them, I love his voice. It's unusual to begin with and he can deliver a country twang like no other.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?
Not really. I enjoyed it, might have to revisit all the books in the series when the next one comes out. I will say, the whole issue around what happened that broke them up, Adam refusing to tell Lee the truth, feeling he should trust him regardless, was a bit annoying. These are two grown ass men and if they'd been open and honest, they wouldn't have lost so many years to stupidity.

Any additional comments?
This book is part of a series, but each book in the series stands alone quite well. There are a few side characters and a case that runs through all the books though, so I recommend listening in order.

 This series is too much fun to listen to. I really like this world Scott has created that evolves around Sanctuary, an organization that helps people when no one else will. They operate in that grey area between the law and vigilantes. Definitely worth adding to your library.
RJ Scott has been writing since age six, when she was made to stay in at lunchtime for an infraction involving cookies. She was told to write a story and two sides of paper about a trapped princess later, a lover of writing was born. She can mostly be found reading — anything from thrillers to sci-fi to horror. However, her first real love will always be the world of romance. When writing her goal is to write stories with a heart of romance, a troubled road to reach happiness, and more than a hint of happily ever after. She loves to talk to readers and can be contacted via rj@rjscott.co.uk

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Bonfires by Amy Lane | Tams Audiobook Review & #giveaway @Dreamspinners @amymaclane @nickjrussovoice



Ten years ago Sheriff's Deputy Aaron George lost his wife and moved to Colton, hoping growing up in a small town would be better for his children. He's gotten to know his community, including Mr. Larkin, the bouncy, funny science teacher. But when Larx is dragged unwillingly into administration, he stops coaching the track team and starts running alone. Aaron - who thought life began and ended with his kids - is distracted by a glistening chest and a principal running on a dangerous road.
Larx has been living for his kids too - and for his students at Colton High. He's not ready to be charmed by Aaron, but when they start running together, he comes to appreciate the deputy's steadiness, humor, and complete understanding of Larx's priorities. Children first, job second, his own interests a sad last.
It only takes one kiss for two men approaching 50 to start acting like teenagers in love, even amid all the responsibilities they shoulder. Then an act of violence puts their burgeoning relationship on hold. The adult responsibilities they've embraced are now instrumental in keeping their town from exploding. When things come to a head, they realize their newly forged family might be what keeps the world from spinning out of control.
©2017 Amy Lane (P)2017 Dreamspinner Press
Tams gives this one 5 Stars...

"Good things come to those that wait."
Overall
Performance
Story
What did you love best about Bonfires?
The fact that the men are older, mature and established. Their romance is a slow burn built on a foundation of trust and friendship.
Who was your favorite character and why?
Aaron, I mean I truly enjoyed both Aaron and Larx, but Aaron continually grew and evolved throughout the story.
Have you listened to any of Nick J. Russo’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
I have, love his voice. I liked how he gave Aaron just a little bit of a country boy accent, without needing a dictionary to understand what he was saying.
Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?
A bit of both. The story isn't a romcom but it's not as intense as some of Lane's books are.
Any additional comments?
As I said, I really enjoyed listening to a story where the MC's are older and established in life. Aaron has some issues with coming out because of his job in law enforcement early on as does Larx because he's a high school principle.

I have to say, I especially enjoyed the "town hall meeting' toward the end of the book when Larx took those homophobic biggots to church!

Nick Russo has a significant arsenal of voices and tones, little nuances that add emotion and feelings to a word or phrase. He did an amazing job bringing Aaron and Larx to life.

P.S. Mrs. Lane, I need the young couples book now please. Thank you!

Angst and pain, Amy Lane Amy Lane has two kids in college, two gradeschoolers in soccer, two cats, and two Chi-who-whats at large. She lives in a crumbling crapmansion with most of the children and a bemused spouse. She also has too damned much yarn, a penchant for action adventure movies, and a need to know that somewhere in all the pain is a story of Wuv, Twu Wuv, which she continues to believe in to this day! She writes fantasy, urban fantasy, and m/m romance--and if you accidentally make eye contact, she'll bore you to tears with why those three genres go together. She'll also tell you that sacrifices, large and small, are worth the urge to write.
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Setting the Hook (Love's Charter book 1) by Andrew Grey | Tams Audiobook and E-book Review & #giveaway @Dreamspinners @AndrewGreyBooks @GTremblayVoice


Setting the Hook
Love's Charter book 1
It could be the catch of a lifetime.
William Westmoreland escapes his unfulfilling Rhode Island existence by traveling to Florida twice a year and chartering Mike Jansen's fishing boat to take him out on the Gulf. The crystal-blue water and tropical scenery isn't the only view William enjoys, but he's never made his move. A vacation romance just isn't on his horizon.
Mike started his Apalachicola charter fishing service as a way to care for his daughter and mother, putting their safety and security ahead of the needs of his own heart. Denying his attraction becomes harder with each of William's visits.
William and Mike's latest fishing excursion starts with a beautiful day, but a hurricane's erratic course changes everything, stranding William. As the wind and rain rage outside, the passion the two men have been trying to resist for years crashes over them. In the storm's wake, it leaves both men yearning to prolong what they have found. But real life pulls William back to his obligations. Can they find a way to reduce the distance between them and discover a place where their souls can meet? The journey will require rough sailing, but the bright future at the end might be worth the choppy seas.
©2017 Andrew Grey (P)2017 Dreamspinner Press
Tams gives this one 5 Stars...
"Hook, line and sinker."
Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?
Most definitely. The story and the narration coalesce perfectly giving the characters dimension that you just don't get simply reading a book.
What was one of the most memorable moments of Setting the Hook?
When William goes off on his mom, "Cry out in rapture at 4 in the morning" Oh my god, it was funny when I read it but hearing Greg Tremblay as William say it, oh wow, I laughed so hard I cried!
What does Greg Tremblay bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?
See above ^ he breathes life into the characters and ensures that each and every character have their own distinct voice. Some may be similar but there a little tone inflections and nuances that differentiate one from another.
If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?
Hook, line and sinker!
Any additional comments?
E-book Review from May 2017...

William and Mike are very much like two ships passing in the night, never long at the port. Over several years the two become friends when William vacations twice a year in Florida and charters Mike's boat to fish. He's far from happy with his day to day life. Between running his family's company and dealing with his meddling mother, William craves the time away. Getting to spend time with Mike, well, that's a bonus. Mike is lonely as well, focusing on his business and raising his daughter leave no time for dating. The fact that he lives in a small, conservative town doesn't bode well for him heading out on date night and holding hands with another man.

It would seem fate is giving these two men, that are so obviously attracted to one another, a gentle shove when a hurricane strands William in Florida. But neither sees a way to work a relationship into their already chaotic lives. At least.... not quite yet.

Thank you book goddess for delivering me a hard fought happy ever after story with little to no friggin' angst! I loved everything about this book. Grey takes these two seemingly completely different men... they lead different lives, have different priorities and responsibilities... but the one thing that brings them together is their slow burning love for another. I loved that Grey wrote every aspect of their journey into the story. Each man torn up over the fact that they want something more, but realize it's unlikely to be possible. They'll have to make sacrifices and learn to bend if they stand a chance at a life together.

If you're a hopeless romantic, want a story with two slightly older and more mature characters or thoroughly enjoy a story where they have to work for that happy ever after, because the best things in life... you have to work for them. This is definitely the book for you. But hey, that's just my two cents.

Andrew Grey is the author of nearly 100 works of Contemporary Gay Romantic fiction. After 27 years in corporate America, he has now settled down in Central Pennsylvania with his husband Dominic and his laptop. An interesting ménage. Andrew grew up in western Michigan with a father who loved to tell stories and a mother who loved to read them. Since then he has lived throughout the country and traveled throughout the world. He has a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and now writes full time. Andrew’s hobbies include collecting antiques, gardening, and leaving his dirty dishes anywhere but in the sink (particularly when writing) He considers himself blessed with an accepting family, fantastic friends, and the world’s most supportive and loving partner. Andrew currently lives in beautiful, historic Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
Be sure to leave a comment to be entered into the TTC Books and more monthly comment giveaway. EVERY comment that is relevant to the specific post will be entered. Prizes include various gift cards and swag donated by Publishers, Authors and blog Owner. REMEMBER TO LEAVE YOUR CONTACT INFO! How else will I notify you if you win?
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Noble Intentions by Andrew Grey | Cat's Audiobook Review & #giveaway @Dreamspinners @AndrewGreyBooks



Robert Ashton is in for the surprise of a lifetime. His mother, a bit of a rebel, raised him away from the rest of the family, and it's not until he's contacted by his lawyer about an inheritance that he learns who he truly is: the new Earl of Hantford. His legacy includes ownership of the historic Ashton Park Estate - which needs repairs Robert cannot afford. He'll simply do what the nobility has done for centuries when in need of money. He'll marry it.
Tech wizard Daniel Fabian is wealthy and successful. In fact, he has almost everything - except a title to make him worthy in the eyes of the old-money snobs he went to prep school with. His high school reunion is looming, and he's determined to attend it as a member of the aristocracy.
That's where Robert comes in.
Daniel has the money, Robert has the name, and both of them know they can help each other out. But their marriage of convenience has the potential to become a real love match - unless a threat to Daniel's business ruins everything.
©2016 Andrew Grey (P)2017 Dreamspinner Press
Buy links: Dreamspinner | Amazon Audio | Audible | iTunes

 Cat gives this one 4 & 1/2 Meows with a 3 Purr heat index...
"A business deal gone right"
Overall
Performance
Story
If you could sum up Noble Intentions in three words, what would they be?
Sweet, sexy, fun.

What other book might you compare Noble Intentions to and why?
It is an Andrew Grey book that speaks for itself! Always a good story!

What does Robert Nieman bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?
I loved the accent Robert Nieman gave Robert. I did stay engaged in the story but at times I felt the reading was just a little choppy.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?
Yes. Roberts proposal was quite tearing jerking.I said AWE! out loud LOL I made my heart happy.

Any additional comments?
I thoroughly enjoyed the story. I love stories set in England and add in a rich American businessman you have the best of both worlds. The story does move fast but the storyline is sweet both character's intriguing and though the sex isn't overly hot it is perfect for the story. If you are looking for a book to kill a few hours and lift your mood this is a great choice.

Andrew Grey is the author of nearly 100 works of Contemporary Gay Romantic fiction. After 27 years in corporate America, he has now settled down in Central Pennsylvania with his husband Dominic and his laptop. An interesting ménage. Andrew grew up in western Michigan with a father who loved to tell stories and a mother who loved to read them. Since then he has lived throughout the country and traveled throughout the world. He has a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and now writes full time. Andrew’s hobbies include collecting antiques, gardening, and leaving his dirty dishes anywhere but in the sink (particularly when writing) He considers himself blessed with an accepting family, fantastic friends, and the world’s most supportive and loving partner. Andrew currently lives in beautiful, historic Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
Be sure to leave a comment to be entered into the TTC Books and more monthly comment giveaway. EVERY comment that is relevant to the specific post will be entered. Prizes include various gift cards and swag donated by Publishers, Authors and blog Owner. REMEMBER TO LEAVE YOUR CONTACT INFO! How else will I notify you if you win?
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Friday, July 28, 2017

The City of Rocks (A BJ Vinson Mystery) by Don Travis | Cat's Review, Excerpt & #giveaway @DSPPublications


Confidential investigator B. J. Vinson thinks it’s a bad joke when Del Dahlman asks him to look into the theft of a duck… a duck named Quacky Quack the Second and insured for $250,000. It ceases to be funny when the young thief dies in a suspicious truck wreck. The search leads BJ and his lover, Paul Barton, to the sprawling Lazy M Ranch in the Bootheel country of southwestern New Mexico bordering the Mexican state of Chihuahua.

A deadly game unfolds when BJ and Paul are trapped in a weird rock formation known as the City of Rocks, an eerie array of frozen magma that is somehow at the center of the entire scheme. But does the theft of Quacky involve a quarter-million-dollar duck-racing bet between the ranch’s owner and a Miami real estate developer, or someone attempting to force the sale of the Lazy M because of its proximity to an unfenced portion of the Mexican border? BJ and Paul go from the City of Rocks to the neon lights of Miami and back again in pursuit of the answer… death and danger tracking their every step.
Cat gives this one 5 Meows with a 0 Purr heat index...
The City Of Rocks is the Third book in the BJ Vinson Mystery Series but it stands alone just fine. 

BJ is an ex-cop that is now a private investigator. He gets a call to investigate a kidnapped duck for an insurance company because the duck was insured for $25,000. Yes, you read that right. A duck kidnapping. Quacky Quack the second. This adds a bit of humor to the seriousness of the mystery. We meet many colorful, intriguing characters. We meet Paul his lover of two years that becomes sort of a sidekick and adds a bit of lightness and romance to the story though there is no on page sex. The story is very well written with a great balance of BJ's work and daily life, settings, plots and the mystery. 

This is the first of this series I have read but plan to get the other two very soon. I love BJ Vinson and want more! If you like mystery and suspense, with no on-page sex, great characters, and beautiful settings you will love this. I highly recommend it!

Excerpt...
PROLOGUE
M Lazy M Ranch in the New Mexico Boot Heel
Wednesday, July 9, 2008

THE THIEF froze as a string of sharp yips hammered the quiet night. He’d darted both big Dobermans that were now sleeping soundly out at the fence, so this yapper must be a house pet. A light flashed briefly as the back door opened. A fur ball with pointed ears bounded down the steps and made straight for him. The feisty canine latched onto his pant leg and whipped it back and forth, growling furiously. A growl was preferable to a bark, so he dragged his dog-impeded leg like a zombie in some old Hollywood movie.
As he reached the poultry pen, all hell broke loose. A single quack built into a raucous caterwauling. Someone must have flipped a switch up at the house because brilliant light suddenly flooded the enclosure. He reeled backward, stunned by a sea of white. Ducks. Dozens of ducks. Hundreds. How was he going to find the right one?
The dog attached to his pant leg shifted its grip and closed on his ankle. Cursing, he gave an involuntary kick, sending the pooch over the fence. The ducks scattered, opening a circle of dark earth around the confused mutt. The pup transferred its attention to the birds and began a joyful chase, dashing this way and that, parting its panicked prey in dizzying waves of undulating white, creating a living kaleidoscope of shifting shades and shapes.
Then he saw her. In a coop all by herself. Like she waited to turn into a swan or something. A clamor from the house galvanized him into action. He vaulted the fence, threw open the cage door, and dragged her out by the neck. He ignored the claws raking flesh from his forearms as he fled through a horse corral at the back of the pen. He made it to the cover of some shrubbery before the ranch came alive. Moments later a woman’s agonized wail rose above everything.
Remembering he needed to deliver the duck alive, he loosened his hold on the feathery neck. The bird immediately set up a loud protest that could have awakened the dead but wasn’t enough to overcome the clamor of the hundred or so other birds. He turned and headed for his pickup. Best get out of there before Millicent Muldren’s drovers filled him full of lead.

Read chapter 1 as well, HERE

Don Travis is a man totally captivated by his adopted state of New Mexico. Each of his mystery novels features some region of the state as prominently as it does his protagonist, a gay ex-Marine, ex-cop turned confidential investigator. Don never made it to the Marines (three years in the Army was all he managed) and certainly didn’t join the Albuquerque Police Department. He thought he was a paint artist for a while, but ditched that for writing a few years back. A loner, he fulfills his social needs by attending SouthwestWriters meetings and teaching a weekly writing class at an Albuquerque community center.

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