Tag Archive | No or Low Angst

Perfect Imperfections by Cardeno C. (5 Stars)

Apr13

I absolutely loved this amazing story! Jeremy was a high maintenance person, and he struggled to keep anybody around because they would eventually get tired of his antics. However, he was also a very lonely and kind person deep down. He was definitely not your typical bad boy rock star. He fortunately convinces Reg to become a part of his life, even though the plan is for it to be temporary.

Thank goodness plans can change! Reg becomes first his friend, and then eventually his lover, after they spend quite a bit of time together. I loved seeing their relationship develop slowly while they really got to know each other. Not only did they spend a lot of time talking, but they also had several fun adventures together. Reg really understood Jeremy and was able to truly support him so he could focus on his music. Reg was extremely patient and helped Jeremy mature in his behavior.

The build up to their first hot sex scene together was so intense and emotional. I liked the way we saw time pass by so the strengthening of their relationship made sense. Throw in a little mystery about somebody leaking information to the press, and I had a story that I couldn’t put down.

My favorite thing about books by this author is that he spends the time to fully develop both the characters and the relationship. If you haven’t read the author’s work before, this is a great starting point, since it’s not part of a series.

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Originally reviewed for Swept Away By Romance. Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
Book Blurb

Driving into the Sun by Dev Bentham (5 Stars)

Apr6

A beautiful romance develops during a journey across the country.

His former lover and boss caused Dusty Walker to lose everything, including his license to work in the financial world. He finds a ride with a stranger, Joe Black, to take him back home to his family. Fortunately, Joe turns out to be the savior Dusty needed. At the end of the trip, they need to decide if what they have with each other is real and lasting.

Dusty is such a nice person that it’s hard to believe he’s in his current situation. We learn it’s because he tends to make too many bad decisions. After anxiously watching him make another one, I was left to wonder if he would ever grow up. Although Joe has also made some major mistakes in his life, he has finally matured and is ready to start over. I loved watching Dusty and Joe slowly get to know each other while they drove together. Their heartfelt conversations and actions toward each other were beautiful and inspiring. There were several thoughtful discussions around prejudicial beliefs and behaviors. There were also moments with other family members that added some interesting drama to the story. As they developed deeper feelings toward each other, I was on edge wondering how they could make things work out. The author provided us with the perfect epilogue.

A beautiful story that gives new meaning to a road trip.

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Originally reviewed for The Romance Reviews. Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
Book Blurb

Pup (Guards of Folsom #1) by SJD Peterson (4 Stars)

Apr2

Can an old dog teach a young pup some new tricks?

Micah “Pup” Slayde is a young, sexy submissive who suffers from ADD. Tackett Austin is a much older Dom who has never been in a steady relationship. Micah has wanted Tackett since the moment he first set eyes on him at the Guards of Folsom club. Micah is convinced he can be in a 24/7 D/s relationship with Tackett. Tackett isn’t sure he can be in any relationship let alone with somebody who is as young as Micah, especially with Micah’s issue with focusing.

The story is told from both of their POVs which was very helpful and necessary. Unfortunately, it didn’t really feel like Micah suffered from ADD to any kind of debilitating degree which made the plot feel a bit contrived. Outside of this issue, it was an enjoyable story.

Micah was absolutely charming and adorable. Working as a bartender at the club, we saw his cheeky side as he tried to reel Tackett in. Tackett was a strong character, and although a bit annoying at times with his rough treatment of Micah, he was a good guy. He truly did want to help Micah in any way he could. The story takes place over the course of a few weeks during which they spend the entire time together. You get a good glimpse of how they get along outside of just having sex. There were some really sweet scenes with them hanging out while they got to know each other. There were also a lot of scenes including sex and discipline, but it didn’t overwhelm the story. There was a believable HEA, and a chance to see them again in future stories of this series.

If you’re looking for a fun little romp in the full-time D/s world, this is a great story.

Warnings: Excessive use of the word “pup” and “boy”, and BDSM play including the use of paddles, crops, and a cock cage.

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Originally reviewed for The Romance Reviews. Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
Book Blurb

Islands by Samantha Kane (4.5 Stars)

Mar31

I really enjoyed this extremely sensual story. The story takes place during a war, but it didn’t overwhelm the romance. Instead, it gave it depth and made the characters and their situation very realistic. Gabe and Rene’ are both extremely intelligent and kind people. I enjoyed their conversations and watching them spend time together. It’s not easy having two strangers have sex right after meeting and still make it feel romantic. However, that’s exactly what the author manage to do. From the moment they met, their relationship was destined to lead to love.

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Book Blurb