ARC REVIEW : Extrasensual Perception by Rayna Vause

 

If a stalker doesn’t kill them, the heat between them might.

Christopher Vincent is desperate enough for a job that he accepts an offer to entertain as a psychic in a friend’s nightclub. Jackson Whitman, one of the club’s co-owners, is less than thrilled by the new act. To him, psychics are ridiculous and a liability. But when they come face-to-face, attraction flares to life between them.

Someone is watching Jack and Chris from the shadows. What starts as a series of creepy encounters leads to deadly attacks.

Jack and Chris must set aside their differences and work together to survive a homicidal stalker. But can they survive their explosive connection?

Extrasensual Perception by Rayna Vause
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first book of this author, and I'm not disappointed.
I liked the writing style and the story is match my mood right now.
Second chance love story is a hit and miss for me, but this one I approved.
Jack and Chris were made for each other apparently. Five years ago, it didn't work out for them. But Chris has a psychic mother. That alone explained why did she sent Chris into a danger in a first place.
The growing attractions between Jack and Chris were kind of fast, but not without any doubt from both of them. I liked this. It was fast but didn't feel fast, at least for me. I'm just a sucker for a fast growing relationship, so it could minimize my headache.
I liked the mystery of Chris sights, and how they'd cope with the problems.
There's a twist, but the couple were strong together.
Looking forward to read more of this author in the future.
Recommended.


* ARC was given by the publisher in exchange of an honest and unbiased review.*

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Crashing the Party (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Ginger Streusel

 

Retail workers and evil never get a day off, and traveling printer salesman Kale Green is no exception. He might look like a Jolly Green Giant, but he can be a real Grinch. Working on the holidays can dampen anyone’s spirits, and on top of that, a sleepy Georgia town has it out for Kale and his car. From fender-benders to flat tires, Kale and his trusty company car Bessie suffer through it all.

While everyone else enjoys holiday parties, Kale drives down south to demo printers. Business is good, but on Christmas Eve, the weather turns bad. A few patches of ice put an end to Kale’s Christmas plans—a night alone with his video games. While Kale waits for the police, his only consolation is the company of fellow driver Wes Armstrong. As festive as a Christmas tree and as jolly as Kris Kringle, Wes proves unexpectedly charming. Kale never thought he’d crash right into a crush.

Crashing the Party by Ginger Streusel
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Cute holiday story, with miracles and destiny on the plate.
I enjoyed this story, because, how many miracles you can have even in holiday? And finding your destiny in the middle of the 'unfortunate' moments in your life? Rare.
A little confuse about the flashback, but so far, this one is a good and fun read.
Read this!

* I received the ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.*

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Santa for Hire (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Asta Idonea, Nicki J. Markus

 

Dumped by his ex on Christmas Eve two years ago, Oxford Street department store manager Richard Barrett now hates the holidays. Things go from bad to worse when the store's usual Santa is too ill to reprise his role and the firm sends cocky but handsome Blaine Ryder to take his place. The attraction between the two is clear, but Blaine is an incorrigible player who reminds Richard of his ex. His idea of a relationship is a quick roll in the hay, and his advances have Richard running for the hills. It might take some special intervention for both of them to realize they can change enough to have a chance at a holiday romance.

Santa for Hire by Asta Idonea
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This actually a very entertaining story.
Nice and naughty. I think I can understand why Richard hates Christmas, and even he likes the sexy Blaine, well, Blaine reminds him of his ex.
Good thing is, there's Jill, who really cares about her boss and did some 'talk' with Blaine (and Richard, as well)
I liked how this one ended, the HFN has a promised to a HEA in the future.

* I received the ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.*

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Iced (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Jon Keys

 

Keith Walker, a mall bookstore employee, is struggling to get through another miserable holiday season while trying to preserve a crumbling long-term relationship. One of his few comforts is his morning coffee made by a good-looking, younger barista. Austin Novak felt an attraction when Keith started frequenting the coffee shop, but he doesn’t think the older man has any interest in him or his graphic novel collection.

A Christmas week snowstorm buries the city and locks Keith’s car into its parking spot. Keith decides to show Austin his gratitude for helping free the car from the ice with a dinner invitation. The meal becomes complicated when Austin meets Keith’s boyfriend, Shawn, and things go downhill from there when Shawn announces he’s heading to Cancún with his coworkers. Keith is caught between keeping his boyfriend happy and keeping his job. But Keith might not need a plane ticket to find the happiness that’s been missing from his life.

Iced by Jon Keys
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Nice!
I liked this one. After so many years trying to be blind about his boyfriend's asshole-ness (it's a word, trust me), Keith finally found someone who looked at him the way he deserved.
And his BF can go to hell.
Great Christmas ever (for Keith and Austin). Cheers!


* I received the ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.*

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Cursed Miracles (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Meg Harding

 

Two hundred years ago on Christmas Eve, William Mashinter was frozen in time, cursed by his wife to roam the world on his own, waiting for the love of his life to find him. The love of his life, whom she killed. Time hasn’t healed this wound, and William is tired of the happy holiday and the constant reminders of a love that’s been taken from him. But then the impossible happens, and maybe… maybe he can get a new Christmas perspective.

Brady Gallagher has lived three different lives, always aware of the first and most important, yet unable to find the man who will fill in the missing pieces and let him know he’s not crazy. He encounters him at a work event, of all places, but is he willing to throw everything else to the wind and embrace the miracle laid out before him?

Cursed Miracles by Meg Harding
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


How can you cope with two hundred years of missing someone so badly? How can you mend your broken heart for two hundred years losing your soulmates?
William hates Christmas, the day he lost Brady for a curse out of jealousy.
Until one Christmas two hundred years later he found Brady and cannot believe his own eyes.
Strangely, I do believe in reincarnation and all the unfinished business in this world should be finished and solved before you go to nirvana.
So, this is very interesting story, entertaining, the writing is good, and kinda a refreshing different Christmas story.


* I received the ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.*


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The Stockings Were Hung (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Cassie Sweet

 

Hill hates Christmas.

The shoppers. The cheer. The drama. All of it.

Each holiday season is a painful reminder that seven years before, his lover, Drew, walked out of his life and moved across the country, leaving Hill like a cup of rotten eggnog. Now Drew is back and wants Hill to put a little jingle in his bells. Well, not this Scrooge.

Drew admits he moved to get away from Hill—but not for the reasons Drew gave him all those years ago. Some of his best memories are of Christmases he celebrated with Hill, and he wants nothing more than to spend a little holly jolly with the only man he’s ever loved. However, getting Hill to agree to a reunion is going to take a Christmas miracle.

The Stockings Were Hung by Cassie Sweet
My rating: 2 of 5 stars


This is not what I expected my Christmas story feels like.
A stupid decision for leaving you spouse for seven years because you didn't now about the word 'communication'??? Lame.
To me, Hill was weak, and Drew was just a selfish asshole. Can't he just let Hill know what he felt about their relationship instead of 'missing'?
And came to Hill, again, and 'arrange for a best Christmas ever' and expected Hill to coming back to him? Sadly, yes.
Doh. Just because this is a holiday story and the writing is good, I was being generous about the rating. Sorry, this one didn't work for me.



* I received the ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.*


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Don't Let the Light Go Out (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by L.A. Merrill

 

Ray Fine would like to forget Hanukkah even exists. The holiday holds too many sad memories for the young widower. When he’s paired with new convert Josiah Wilson in a year-long welcoming program at his synagogue, he doesn't know how he’ll get through eight days of celebration, let alone twelve months of guidance.

Josiah has enough on his plate—school, conversion, the holiday concert season—without becoming someone's shoulder to cry on. But when he discovers there's more to his new synagogue buddy’s sadness than a case of the “Hanukkah Blues,” he sets out to show Ray how much there is to live for.

The first blizzard of the season has other plans, though, and Hanukkah might be a lost cause if Ray and Josiah can’t plow through the snow—and their differences. Determined not to lose Ray to his own darkness, Josiah plans to teach him a lesson about the real Miracle of Light—and love.

Don't Let the Light Go Out by L.A. Merrill
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Short nice holiday story. It's about Hanukkah and how Ray hated it, since he lost his partner.
But then again, it's hard not to like Josiah. You know, there's some people who just stormed into your life and stay there, and there's nothing you can do except accept them and enjoy the moment?
That's Josiah. Because, Ray can't say no to him, and Josiah made him happy and embrace the holiday seasons again.
This one is nice, cute and fun.

* I received the ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.*

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The Vampire's Dinner (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by T.J. Nichols

 

For vampire Charles Redfort, Christmas is a bitter reminder of the day he was killed by a werewolf. After fleeing the vampire army he was created to serve in, he has lived in exile in England. Once a year he allows himself to tell the truth about his life over dinner. Then he eats the man he’s hired for the night.

Blake Wells is an engineering student by day and escort by night. He works Christmas because he doesn’t want to see his father, and his mother doesn’t want to see him. When he meets Charles, he thinks he’s gotten a bonus present that he can’t wait to unwrap. But as the truth is revealed, Blake will have to think fast to live until morning and convince Charles to give up his lonely life.

The Vampire's Dinner by T.J. Nichols
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


*SEXY!*

How did I feel, this book is scary and sexy at the same time?
Blake is one hell of a brave rent boy! He knew Charles will make him 'dinner' but yet, he 'negotiate'...
I liked the chemistry between Charles and Blake.. While Charles can't resist his need to 'eat' Blake, he wanted Blake for a longer time, to enjoy his braveness. And Blake, lust and fears set him on fire for the vampire. *shivers*

By far, this one is my favorite from this bundle, I can feel it in my blood, tickles my masochistic need. Haha!
Ended with HFN, I knew in two years ahead, Blake and Charles would make some 'discussion and negotiate' about their deal. Scary! Loved this one!

* I received the ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.*




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Ranger Station Haven (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by S.A. Stovall

 

Federal park ranger Carter Williams dislikes kids almost as much as he dislikes Christmas. He chose his career to escape human contact, not embrace it. And no matter how much his husband Owen tries to sway his opinion, Carter is a grump who would rather ignore the holiday. Owen’s efforts are put on hold, however, when they get a call about six missing foster kids lost in the park.

Christmas Eve takes a turn for the worse when Owen injures himself rescuing the children. Stranded in a snowstorm until dawn, Carter has to keep Owen awake and healthy while simultaneously watching six runaways. What he thinks is a nightmare come to life is actually a beautiful gift in disguise—the kids transform the ranger station into a Christmas wonderland. And before it’s all said and done, they might transform Carter’s heart as well—if he can keep his bah humbug attitude in check.

Ranger Station Haven by S.A. Stovall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Why did I cry when Carter, who reaaaally hates children made them hot chocolate, wrapped Christmas present that they never had, gave them Owen's cookies only they didn't have to pretend that plain bread in Christmas day is a cookie?
Why did I cry when Carter the children hater told Owen that Owen can be a good father, and suggested adoption?
Why??????
Read this book and you'll know why, and can't resist to love Carter the way Owen does!

Why five stars? Because!
Christmas magic did something to Carter, and the children, six of them, were finally can have a place they called home! So freaking beautiful!
That's why!
Recommended!

* I received the ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.*

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Resolutions (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Emma Keene

 

As an advertising executive, it’s Logan’s job to sell people holiday cheer, and he’s good at what he does. But deep down, Logan hates everything about Christmas, so he worries that his crush on the hot baker who loves the holidays is a recipe for disaster.

Last year, Logan saw Ryan at a holiday party Ryan was catering, and the attraction was instant. In a drunken moment, Logan made it his New Year’s Resolution to ask the pastry chef out. But another year has slipped away, time is running out, and Logan’s assistant demands he collect on his resolution. Can Logan find the confidence that usually comes so easily to him? And if he does, will Ryan have any interest in spending the holidays with a man who doesn’t share his enthusiasm for the season?

Resolutions by Emma Keene
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Cute Christmas hater story.
But sometimes, we need to cope with the unease of what we don't like in exchange to win someone's heart. And let destiny do their jobs.
Or a matchmaker secretary in this case.
The epilogue was quite satisfying, it's holiday seasons after all.
Everyone should be happy!


* I was given the ARC by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review*

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Popcorn Garlands (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Ariel Tachna

 

Carlos Mendez spends all year working hard at his Houston-based landscaping business, and he sends every spare penny he earns back to his family in Mexico. By the time the holidays roll around, he doesn’t have much patience for the unadulterated greed and consumerism paraded past him. But a chance meeting with his neighbor, Ned Williams, and Ned’s cancer-stricken daughter, might help to remind him of the real meaning of the season—something beyond the gaudy lights and extravagant displays—something he wants to be a part of.

  Popcorn Garlands by Ariel Tachna
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This could be way much better story if only Carlos spent more time with his love interest instead with everyone else. Of course it was needed, but this is a very short story, imo the time he spent with his friends and neighbors and other kids instead of Ned and Sonia, should be shortened.
I was not satisfied with it.
I wish Ned and Carlos and Sonia should have time more together.
I felt sad for Sonia, but well, miracles happens ... Let's hope for the best :)

* ARC was provided by Dreamspinner press for a fair and unbiased review.*

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Of Mooning Santas and Penis Lights (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Thianna Durston

 

Former US Marine John Ving hates everything about holiday displays: they’re tacky, they waste energy, and they’re an eyesore. So what does his new neighbor do? He sets up the holiday spectacle from hell, and he doesn’t seem to care which holiday—he has a menorah, a baby Jesus, a Santa, and everything in between. Not to mention it’s swathed in enough lights his house is probably visible from space.

High-school teacher Kaden loves the holidays, and huge light displays on his lawn make his heart glow. He’d love to share some cheer—and maybe some kinky fun—with his smoking hot neighbor John. Odd things start to happen to his displays and just as he begins to think life is going his way, with the holidays and with John, a Grinch destroys everything.

It’s gonna take the display-hating John to set things right—and what he has planned might blow Kaden’s mind.

Of Mooning Santas and Penis Lights by Thianna Durston
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


You know, when people overdoing something that makes you sick?
Well this kind of like that, with the Christmas displays of ornaments, the lights and all.
The nephews helped the story to become bearable.
The romance, not so much.
And I don't think the stupid ex thing was out of charts and was NOT needed.
That was an overdoing, as well...

* The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner press for an honest and fair reviews.*

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Matthew's Present (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Sarah Hadley Brook

 

Matthew Blick is almost thirty years old, and he hates the thought of another holiday alone. He has become a bit of a wet blanket when Christmas rolls around every year. So much so that even his five-year-old niece, Hannah, knows something needs to change. She asks the department store Santa to bring her uncle a man to love, and when Santa sees her uncle, he formulates a plan to set that possibility in motion.

Santa shows up at Matthew’s house and at first Matthew can’t place him, but then the memories of his first kiss flood his mind and he is shocked to find that Santa is the man he has carried a torch for since high school. Will this twist of fate help Matthew change his view on the holidays? Only a kiss can tell.

Matthew's Present by Sarah Hadley Brook
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I liked this one, this was cute, adorable and Christmas-y.
And Hannah is definitely the most unselfish little girl who loved her uncle Matthew so much. So, she asked Santa to send Matthew a gift instead of asked him for herself.
This was a a happy second chance story, sure I was loving it!


* ARC is provided by publisher for an honest and unbiased review.No high rating required for the story*

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Guardian Angels (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Geneva Vand

 

One snowy evening, a car wreck in front of his toy store triggers terrible memories for Jake. Suddenly, he is in the midst of another winter storm—and another accident, one that not everyone walked away from. When he returns to the present, Jake is on the ground, being watched over by a guardian angel in the form of a kind man named Eli. Eli is no stranger to panic attacks and PTSD, and he’s happy to help Jake get home—where the weather forces him to remain for the night. For Jake, it could be the first step toward a life free from fear and loneliness.

Guardian Angels by Geneva Vand
My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Started well and promising, at fifty percent mark, our MCs were too busy with other things instead of being together.
But the 'dancing on the street' was kinda fun, I enjoyed it a little bit.
Nice, fun and sweet, but not too memorable. Onward!


* ARC is provided by publisher for an honest and unbiased review.No high rating required for the story*

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Scrooged Over (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by David Connor

 

For dueling radio hosts Deke and Dudley, the battle over Christmas starts the day after Thanksgiving. Deke hates the whole season. Dudley is a yuletide overachiever. They put their debate to a vote, inviting audience members to weigh in. The loser must go on a blind date of the winner’s choosing. Dudley decides he wouldn't mind taking the loss, if his blind date, picked by Deke, turns out to be Deke himself. As Christmas gets closer, not only does that fantasy seem unlikely, but everything that can go wrong for Dudley does, including malfunctioning decorations, rancid cookies, and a lost pile of hundreds of handwritten Christmas cards. Just days before Santa's arrival, Dudley’s about to throw in the red and green towel and join all the haters. It’ll take a miracle to change his mind….

Scrooged Over by David Connor
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I a book could have a tempo, this one would be a staccato.
The bickering exhausted me. This was too much. and I can't see any chemistry between the two MCs, except a brotherly affection (correct me if I'm wrong).
The only one I like is Gramps, he's nosy and adorable.
I liked Deke and Dudley, they're okay. But maybe, it's just me who can't get into the story.

* I was given the ARC by a publisher for an honest and unbiased review.*

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Driven to Distraction (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Cassie Decker

 

Cowboys Wyatt and Brady are competing in a team roping event in Missoula, Montana’s annual Christmas Eve rodeo. Christmas is Wyatt’s favorite time of year and nothing is going to dampen his holiday spirit, not even his surly, no-nonsense roping partner. They’ve only been riding together for a week, but Wyatt has already secretly fallen head-over-boot-heels for Brady, though it’s painfully obvious Brady only has eyes for the rodeo’s grand prize purse.

When Brady is distracted during a crucial moment in the night’s first roping run and nearly disqualifies them, Wyatt is almost certain he is going to be another of Brady’s many rejected partners. Will Wyatt and Brady be able to sort out their differences and work together to win the grand prize? Maybe if Wyatt can show Brady that Christmas really is a time for miracles.

Driven to Distraction by Cassie Decker
My rating: 2 of 5 stars




This is actually not I expected a Christmas story like. This was an average story with lots of jizz, and I don't think there's nothing to do with Christmas.
This was a short story, yet made me bore easily. Maybe there's something wrong with me, because, this one was kinda steamy.
But the chemistry between the two main characters was not there.


* ARC is provided by publisher for an honest and unbiased review.No high rating required for the story*

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Simple After All (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Yolande Kleinn

 

Noah Fiore, contracts attorney and dedicated curmudgeon, spends every Christmas with his family on the shore of Lake Superior. It’s practically tradition for his sister to invite a tragic tagalong to the festivities. But this year Kara’s guest is no pity case. Riley Coto is a friend, and his warmth and charm quickly win over the Fiore family.

When Riley overhears Noah complaining about Kara’s habit of bringing home strays for the holidays, he feels more than a little out of place. But Riley finds himself drawn to Noah. Something tells him there’s more to the man than the bad attitude he shows the world. With Christmas coming fast, Riley is falling for Noah, and there’s nothing simple about that.

Simple After All by Yolande Kleinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Awww... I liked this one so much!
Mister grumpy Noah came home for holiday, and he found out Riley is different, and he wanted him.
But...you know, as an anti-social person, someone has to nudge him after all. And Riley is not a kind of guy who's easily giving up for rejection.
Well, fake rejection it seemed, because Noah wanted Riley just as much.
Nice, adorable story with family (nosy family too), and a HFN, with a promise for a HEA.
I like the writing style. This is my first book of this author, I'm sure I'll be looking for more.

* ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.*

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Traditions (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Ann Anderson

 

When Marcus and James started dating a few years ago, James invited Marcus home to spend the holidays with his close, Christmas-loving family. Marcus quickly realized once was enough, and since then, he’s stayed behind.

But this year will be different. Though the festivity and chaos make Marcus uncomfortable, he loves James, and he’s decided to put aside his unease so they can spend Christmas together—even if it means losing his hotel room to one of James’s siblings, braving the cold to go caroling, and battling the crowds so the children can visit Santa. It’ll all be worth it if Marcus can take his place in the family’s traditions—and maybe begin a new tradition for the two of them.

Traditions by Ann Anderson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is a heartwarming, with family, family 'rules', and what is family means to some people.
This actually cute, how James and Marcus 'must' put on hold their 'funny business' because...rules!
Kinda like my father's rules back then, but yeah, with children around, it was make sense.
But some stealing moments made this one worth reading, and how Marcus finally realized how much James's family means to him.

Isn't it about time to make a 'conspiracy'?
Oh yeah, it's well done and this holiday, everyone's happy with something worth waiting for in the near future.
Recommended.

* I was given the ARC by the publisher for an honest and unbiased review.*

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The Fortune Cookie (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Matt Burlingame

 

Thirty-three-year-old technical writer Laurence Hart is a modern-day Scrooge when it comes to the holiday season—and the rest of the year, too. He doesn’t like most people, they don’t like him, and he’s happy to keep it that way. Over lunch with his best friend, he receives a fortune cookie promising him true love. The next day, forced to work on a holiday charity committee or lose his job, he meets Nick, a jolly ginger giant who loves all things Christmas. Together they face numerous obstacles to put together a holiday fair to raise money for children in foster care, in only four days. While Laurence has to mend his curmudgeonly ways to make the event a success, Nick’s holiday magic might mend Laurence’s heart.

The Fortune Cookie by Matt Burlingame
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Lawrence hates Christmas.
Struggled with his own demon about his childhood and his past story, he need some miracles to see the spirit of holiday seasons.
Almost nothing made him like the holiday, until Nick came into his life, and the unfortunate kids that reminds him of his childhood.
But something's happened , and Lawrence can't help it except unconsciously, he became the hero of the holiday.
Sweet and heart warming.

* I was given the ARC by the publisher for an honest and unbiased review.*

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The 12 Days of Hipster (The Avona Tales #2) by Raine O'Tierney

 

Sequel to Bowl Full of Cherries

Last Christmas, Tyler Lang accidentally accepted David Griffith’s invitation for dinner. Yes, it was an accident. See, hipster (don’t call him that!) Tyler doesn’t date guys, and even if he did, he certainly doesn’t date jocks. A rude and hasty exit right when the date was getting good left things awkward between them.

David Griffith isn’t really a jock. Well, he’s a former athlete who loves sports, but “jock” has a certain connotation that doesn’t quite fit the intelligent, hardworking store owner. A jock wouldn’t have given Tyler Lang the time of day. But even after that little, ahem, stunt with the fire escape, David can’t stop thinking about the hipster a year later. Which would be fine if fate didn’t keep butting her nose into their business, making it impossible for the jock and the hipster to avoid each other this Christmas.

A hilarious holiday romp, set to the music of the Winter Sounds

The 12 Days of Hipster by Raine O'Tierney
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I didn't read the first book of this series, tried to catch up with the earlier MCs, but failed.
I have a little problem with the writing style. I guess this one is not my cuppa, sadly.
Sadly I have to do some skimming through the (too much) conversation I didn't understand. So, I guess it's me not you, book.

More thoughts to follow.

*ARC was given by publisher, in exchange of an honest review.*

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Teddy Bears (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Brandon Witt

 

Other than working the front desk of a gay bathhouse in Denver, Brian McKay is a bit of a recluse. At the best of times, his social life consists of work, role-playing games at a local toyshop, and making YouTube videos with his Teddy Bear hamsters. The arrival of the holidays—with the annoying music, Christmas shopping, and all the reminders of how he disappointed his father—just reinforces his reclusive nature.

When James Olsen, a gorgeous daddy bear who frequents the bathhouse, notices him, Brian is at a loss. He’s not proud of his own bear status or his struggle with weight. The idea that James has interest in him beyond an easy hookup is more than Brian can fathom. But with a little bit of holiday magic, James might help Brian learn to accept Christmas again—and himself.

Teddy Bears by Brandon Witt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This was so un-BEAR-ably cute Christmas story!
Brian is having an issue with his appearance, you know, big (not a muscle kinda big) and hairy. A daddy bear!
And he doesn't like twink of chubby chaser. The came that big daddy bear, James, who.. apparently so hot (in Brian's eyes)), and the feeling's mutual! YAY!And James, were really working on it, to make Brian feels special. And he made it!
Loved this one!
Recommended!

* I was given the ARC by a publisher for an honest and unbiased review.*

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#ChristmasHatesYouToo (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by E.F. Mulder

 

Born December 25, Noel Beebe is tired of having his birthday overshadowed by all things Christmas. While looking for love on social media, he comes across a prospective new beau just in time to celebrate the Big 3-0, someone who encourages him to take back his day and say thumbs down to Christmas! On a trip to the Big Apple, Noel does just that, flipping off the Rockefeller Center tree and demanding his coffee in a nondecorative paper cup as a fun birthday prank. His act of defiance is caught on video and soon goes viral, leading to a backlash all over the Twitterverse, Internet, and TV. Suddenly what Noel thought would be his best birthday—and even Christmas—yet is shaping up to be his worst. Can his family and his potential boyfriend prove to the world that Noel isn’t the Scrooge he’s been labeled?

#ChristmasHatesYouToo by E.F. Mulder
My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Not as cute as the cover.
I was hoping this one would be as entertaining as a book I read before, but I was kinda confuse?
Not really into the story, the chat story was kinda bored me easily. And what's that about Ethan and Hung?
I guess I was as confuse as Noel too. Good thing is, Hung is really determined about him.
Glad they're finally together, and Noel is actually not really hates Christmas anyway.

* I received an from Dreamspinner Press ARC in exchange of an honest review.*

More thoughts to come...

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All I Want for Christmas... Is No Christmas (2016 Advent Calendar - Bah Humbug) by Colton Aalto

 

Alec Ryder’s arrest in Aspen, early on the morning of December twenty-fifth, is the latest disaster in his series of unhappy Christmases. He’s dreaded the holiday since being subjected to endless church services as a child. Being kicked out on Christmas Day after he came out to his parents, followed by an improbable series of yearly yuletide trips to the emergency room, haven’t made his Christmases any merrier. But getting busted for prostitution is the worst catastrophe; it means Alec’s dream of a college degree is gone, replaced by the specter of jail time.

Just when Alec thinks things can’t get worse, Hayden Adler shows up to interrogate him. Hayden is a glamorous attorney who also happens to be Alec’s college roommate’s cousin. Alec’s had a crush on Hayden for years, but whatever miniscule chance Alec might’ve had is now history—just like the life he’s been trying to build for himself.

But things aren’t quite what they seem. In a long line of miserable Christmases, Alec will never forget this one, although not for the reasons he suspects

All I Want for Christmas... Is No Christmas by Colton Aalto
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Working as a rent boy surely didn't make Alec shy stripping in his interrogation.
And Hayden's just enjoying the view :)
I felt sorry for Alec and his life, but Hayden is okay with that and not annoyed for his 'profession', is kinda heartwarming.

This one is cute, not too memorable but I enjoyed it.

More thoughts to come.

* I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press for an honest and unbiased review.*



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REVIEW : Whiskey Business (States of Love) by Avon Gale

 

Ryder Waites will do anything to keep the tiny town of Gallows Grove, Kentucky, from vanishing off the map—even sell his family’s whiskey recipe to Bluegrass Bourbon in Lexington. Hopeful that the larger company can provide necessary improvements to the distillery, Ryder’s ultimate goal is to get Gallows Grove on the Bourbon Trail… and bring in much-needed tourism revenue. But to keep producing Hanged Man Bourbon in Gallows Grove, he’ll have to convince company liaison, unbearably stuffy and seriously hot Adam Keller, that he's worth the investment.

Adam comes from an old-money family, but he’s determined to make his own way in the world. When he’s sent to Gallows Grove, he questions the life choices that led him to a rented room in a funeral home, in a town full of macabre-themed businesses. And he doesn’t know what to make of Ryder, the descendant of bootleggers who’s on a mission to save his strange town from extinction. When Adam and Ryder put aside their initial mistrust, the results are as smooth as good whiskey. But after Adam’s assignment ends, he’ll have to decide if small-town life and a future with Ryder is to his tastes.

(Part of Dreamspinner Press's "States of Love" Collection for Kentucky)

Whiskey Business by Avon Gale
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


OMG! Adam 'is' definitely loved Ryder1 With all that creepy town, creepy dolls, creepy house. Definitely love!
Ok, don't shoot me, this is the first Avon Gale book I have ever read, I struggled to adjust with the writing style in the beginning , but not by long. Because, I found a bit of Amy Lane's style here and there, and I think, me and this author will get along just fine.
This book is funny, witty, and maaaaaan...so dirty! And I loved my book dirty!
It was a fun read and adorable, and the ending was great, I couldn't ask for more.
Added to the ending, some creepy dolls Ryder still 'keep' for having fun in the future...he is a handful!
Adam don't mind, who am I to object?
Recommended!

* I received the ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.*


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Striking Sparks (Dreamspun Desires Book 24) by Ari McKay

 

The stakes are high and the heat is on.

Beau Walker, owner of the Barbecue Shack, needs the help of Jake Parnell, his one-time rival and secret crush, in a televised barbecue competition. Beau is a proud man, but the stakes are high, and smart, sexy Jake is his only hope, even if being around Jake reawakens the attraction he’s fought for years.

Jake left his hometown, determined to build a life somewhere his sexuality wouldn’t hurt his family’s restaurant business—and far away from hunky, obstinate Beau Walker. Then his twin, Josh, is killed, and Jake returns to support his brother’s wife and children. Despite his reservations, he agrees to go head-to-head against Beau on national television. Between stress and grief, as well as pride and determination, only one thing is certain—the heat between Beau and Jake extends well beyond the kitchen.

Striking Sparks by Ari McKay
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I liked the idea of two former enemies reunited and falling in love.
But this one was not really for me I guess. Too much telling and cooking details bored me easily.
I admit I did some skimming, especially the cooking, if you like this kind of details, this one's probably a book for you.
I didn't see any sparkling chemistry between the two MCs as well, which was disappointing.
But I finished it anyways.

* I received an ARC from Dreamspinner press in exchange of a fair an unbiased review.

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