Light Switch by Lauren Gallagher

                                  

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: Light Switch
Author: Lauren Gallagher 

Author Site

Buy Link

Amazon
Publisher: Carnal Passions

Genre: Erotic/Contemporary/Romance

Length: 324 pgs.
Reviewed by: Violet

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 5

Presentation: 5

Editing: 5

Story: 5

Writing Ability: 5

Overall Card Rating:

                                                                                                

About The Book:

After far too much lackluster sex with her now-ex-boyfriend, Kristen Locke isn’t just ready to try something new - she’s ready to try everything. And as luck would have it, two of her good friends are more than willing to introduce her to the kinkier side of life.

Experienced dominant Scott Moore wants to bring out the submissive in her.

Neighbor and voyeur Matt Sommers quite literally sees the exhibitionist in her.

Little by little, they open up a whole new world to her, and Kristen’s about to learn that love can be found in the most unusual places…

The Review:

Light Switch is a slow introduction into the BDSM lifestyle. With one smoking hot scene after another, Gallagher takes us on an incredible journey through Kristin as she discovers the delights of BDSM with one of her close friends, Scott, and the delights of exhibitionism with her other close friend, Matt.  As she learns about what it means to be a submissive from Scott, Kristin learns about what it means to be loved and cherished.  Matt is a neighbor who starts out as a spectator and later becomes part of the action.

One of the many things I loved about this novel was the way Gallagher went out of her way to portray the intimacy that springs up between a Dom and a sub in a healthy relationship. Nobody can hand over that much control to another person without profound emotional repercussions.  Light Switch, which is a pun I’ll leave you to figure out when you read this novel—because you’re really missing out if you don’t—is erotic, fun, and romantic. It’s a novel that will have you reading it again and again and again. These are characters that stay with you, and this is a story that resonates on the deepest levels of your soul.

As Kristin’s relationship with Scott, which comprises the bulk of the action, develops, her relationship with Matt blossoms. As a reader, I was torn because both Kristin and Matt make it clear early on that they aren’t the kind of people who could be happy in a polyamorous relationship. I didn’t want her to end things with Scott because he helped her grow so much as a person, and I didn’t want to see her lose Matt because he seemed to be another piece of her soul.  I’m still not sure I like the ending, though it is a happily-for-now for everyone, because I think both Kristin and Matt compromised rather than lose each other. Perhaps this will all be ironed out in Reconstructing Meredith, which is next on my Must Read list and features Scott.

Pagan Elements: N/A

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

Back on Track by S.E. Holden

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: Back on Track
Author: S.E. Holden

Author Site

Buy Link

Publisher: Breathless Press

Genre: Contemporary/Erotic/Romance

Length: 38 pgs.
Reviewed by: yadkny

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 4

Presentation: 4

Editing: 5

Story: 4

Writing Ability: 4

Overall Card Rating: 

                                          

About The Book: 
Becoming parents wreaked havoc on their intimacy, but would their love be strong enough to survive and get their sex life back on track?

The Review:

Will or won’t Jayden’s parents get their groove back?

There are many ‘firsts’ that parents go through after having their first child and intimacy issues are no exception. Julie and Ray are in sync when it comes to their son, Jayden, but out of touch when it comes to their sex life. Julie doesn’t understand why some things are continuing to hold Ray back from her. She wants him to recognize her not just as a mom, but as the woman he fell in love with and married. Ray unfortunately, is too caught up in the past to see what is right in front him.

This story is refreshing in a way that allows readers to see how a baby might change things from a husband/father’s perspective. There are many real life stories that evolve around the changes that happen to a woman after having a baby both physically and emotionally and the resulting marital problems, but how many delve into the male aspect?

This is a quick read, but the pages heat up quite nicely. I can only complain that I would’ve loved to see the story continue, but the point of the story was definitely made. This is my first read by S.E. Holden and one in which I really enjoyed as it is thought provoking and erotic.

Pagan Elements: N/A

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

The Spider Prince (Desert Princes of Jikkar, #4) by Rebecca Goings

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: The Spider Prince (Desert Princes of Jikkar, #4)
Author:  Rebecca Goings

Author Site

Buy Link

Publisher: Carnal Passions

Genre: Erotic/Romance/Fantasy

Length: 161 pgs.
Reviewed by: yadkny

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 5

Presentation: 5

Editing: 4.5

Story: 5

Writing Ability: 5

Overall Card Rating: 

                                                   

About The Book: Amani Bantish has been passed over five times for marriage. She fears she has no hope for a husband until finally, the Spider Prince accepts her as his bride. Not for love, but to bear him an heir.

Two years ago, Ziyad Bihar lost his first wife, Karis, and their unborn son under the hooves of a raider’s horse. No one else could possibly compare to the woman he’d once loved, therefore his new bride will not be his princess.

But Ziyad cannot deny that the more he gets to know Amani, the more he fantasizes about his minx of a wife. Yet his loyalty to Karis pulls him deeper into his despair. When Amani’s life is threatened by the very man responsible for Karis’s death, Ziyad realizes he must fight for the woman he loves, or risk losing it all again.

The Review:

Their union was one of expectation, duty, and responsibility not forged from the bonds of love.

Since the death of Karis, it has taken years for the Spider to collect Amani as his bride. He made sure to explain what was expected of her before their nuptials, so there was no mistaking the son-bearing yet loveless life she would lead. Amani knew going in to the arrangement what she would never receive from the Spider, but she secretly held a spark of hope for it anyway. After repeated marriage rejections from both princes and commoners alike, she feels dejected, defeated, and self-conscious, so this may be her last chance, but at what price? As the emotional rollercoaster takes it’s toll on Amani, Ziyad feels guilty and confused over the effect Amani seems to have on him. He can’t deny the physical attraction, but can he break away from the pain and death of his past and open his heart for the woman who can bring love and life to his future?

I couldn't help but fall in love with Ziyad from his earliest appearance in a previous book to this series. Likewise with Amani, but I really felt for her character more in this story because while she has everything she’s ever dreamt of having her circumstance with the Spider is still so tragic. Her respect and admiration for him is unquestionable and it was hard to see the Spider somewhat detached and unfeeling toward her. Of course, the mixed signals he was sending her due to his own confused and denied feelings didn’t help either. Amazingly enough, Amani still manages to restore some of her self-confidence while conversing with others and during intimate moments with the Spider. Amani’s quiet grace and dignity mixed with a somewhat defiant attitude really appealed to me.

Much of the story is centered on our leading couple with an emotionally intense yet appropriately fast pace. When the story moves back to the overall series plotline, it’s done brilliantly with shocking turn of event results and a little teaser into the Jackal Prince’s future. I am impatiently awaiting the next installment to this fabulous series and encourage every reader of romance to give it a try. To better understand the overall storyline, I fully recommend starting with The Viper Prince (Desert Princes of Jikkar, #1), and if that’s not enough encouragement just take a look at all of the delicious covers there are to choose from. You’ll think you’ve found and read your favorite until Ms. Goings writes the next one.

Pagan Elements: N/A

For Evelyn: Look What The Cat Dragged In by C.R. Moss

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: For Evelyn: Look What The Cat Dragged In 

Author: C R Moss

Author Site 

Buy Link
Publisher: Devine Destinies

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Length: 136 pgs.

Reviewed by: BettyJean Pryor

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 4

Presentation: 4

Editing: 4

Story: 5

Writing Ability: 5

Overall Card Rating: 

                                                   

About The Book: Myrddin, Cassandra's frisky feline familiar, has his work cut out to get two lovers together. Evelyn is in love with Raritan Manor's resident ghost, Quinn, but can only experience his embrace in her dreams. Quinn, who doesn't realize he's a ghost, loves Eve and wishes she'd stop saying they can't be together.

While at the manor, her friend, Julie, is prompted by Cassandra and Myrddin to invite their cousin, Alex, for a visit. When Alex arrives, Evelyn's hopes rise. Perhaps she will be able to have a real relationship after all.

Alex though, has no interest in Evelyn. Yet, every time Myrddin comes around, Alex feels like a man possessed and wants Eve with a passion, but the moment the cat leaves, he's back to his old self again.

Caught between loving a ghost and putting up with a man who can't make up his mind, Evelyn is at a loss of what to do and feels as if she's losing her mind.

Can Myrddin get the right people together without causing too much heartache in the process?

The Review: This book keeps you guessing up until the final chapter. There is a lot of tension between some of the characters. Just when you think that you know how the story will end, the author throws a curve ball that makes the story better. I would love to see a sequel to this to see where the characters go from the end of this book.

Pagan Elements: Yes, there is mention of familiars and of Wicca.

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

Fledgling: Coiree Guardians: Book One by Mari Miniatt

                                         

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: Fledgling: Coiree Guardians: Book One
Author: Mari Miniatt

Author Site

Buy Link:

Print Link
Publisher:  Animated Liar Media

Genre: YA Horror/Urban Fantasy

Length: 204 pgs.  
Reviewed by: BettyJean Pryor

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 3

Presentation: 4

Editing: 2

Story: 5

Writing Ability: 5

Overall Card Rating: 

                                                             

The Book: Fledgling is a story about a woman that becomes a vampire and learns how to survive. Beka has two teachers, Vincent, a friend before she walked in on him feeding, and the giant, Steopa. Under the nightclub, where she lives and works, is a secret, and a rival comes to town. Beka has to become much stronger than she thought she was to help protect her friends and end the murders. 

The Review:  In Coiree Guardians an amazing transformation takes place as the heroine, Beka goes from caterpillar to butterfly. The writing is strong and the author has a knack for drawing the reader into the story, so much so as to make you feel as if you know Beka personally.

Ms. Miniatt vividly depicts the story's setting, and the relationship dynamics between Beka and (hero's name) are so well written, they are nearly tangible. With this class of writing, the emotional and sexual tension all adds up to a fun, edge of your seat read.

Don't miss this one!

    

Pagan Elements: There are mentions of a New Age store, magic, and spells. The Coiree, itself, is supposed to be a magical object.

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

Tasting Camilla by Mary Corrales

                                           

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: Tasting Camilla
Author: Mary Corrales

Author Site

Buy Link
Publisher: Breathless Press

Genre: Erotic/Paranormal/Vampire/Short Story

Length: 35 pgs.
Reviewed by: Rob's Wife

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 3.5

Presentation: 3.5

Editing: 4

Story: 4

Writing Ability: 4

Overall Card Rating: 

                                       

The Book: Camilla has been living with Brandt, a vampire bounty hunter, since she was thirteen. Camilla knows her blood is different from other humans but has no idea how or why. Camilla is kidnapped and given to an ancient vampire to awaken him from a long sleep and to feed from. Camilla tries to resist Vladislas but finds herself drawn to his power and sexuality.

Brandt, a vampire bounty hunter has been in lust with vampire Elisa for a long time. She wants him just as much, and sets out to entice him with her body. Will she succeed in winning him over? 

The Review: Considering this was a very short story, the development of the plot was great. The story was complete in both parts one and two: The first section is the story of Camilla and Vladislas; and the second section of the story is about Brandt and Elisa.

The sex scenes are hot and I didn't feel like I was left hanging by the story being told in these two sections. A great short read by Mary Corrales. I look forward to reading more of her work.

Pagan Elements: None

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

Love Me Once, Love Me Twice (Montana Cowboys, #1) By Sandy Sullivan

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: Love Me Once, Love Me Twice (Montana Cowboys, #1)
Author: Sandy Sullivan

Author Site

Buy Link

Publisher: Secret Cravings Publishing

Genre: Erotic/Contemporary/Western/Ménage (M/F/M)

Length: 178 pgs.
Reviewed by: yadkny

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 3.5

Presentation: 3.5

Editing: 4.5

Story: 4.5

Writing Ability: 4

Overall Card Rating: 

                                                 

About The Book: Home. They say home is where the heart is, but can coming back to Red Rock, Montana really be home? Natalie Bennington is about to find out.

Finding herself in a blizzard and stuck in a ditch, the last person she expects to rescue her is gorgeous ex-high school jock, Cade Weston. His light brown hair and baby blue eyes had many a teenage girl all a twitter including her, but being the shy band girl didn't garner attention from his type. When Cade's best friend Kale, and ex-football jock shows up, the stakes have just shot through the roof. Both men want her and she can't understand why.

Cowboy and all around good guy, Cade Weston is a born and raised Montana boy. Yes ma'am, no sir, hold the lady's chair, open her door - those things were ingrained in his upbringing, but every man likes a pretty woman. Natalie Bennington has grown up into one gorgeous female and he can't get her out of his mind.

Kale Dunn can't get over the changes in the shy band girl he remembers from high-school. Natalie sure turned into one hot woman. All legs, gorgeous body and breasts big enough to fill a man's hands. Would she be willing to share? He and Cade liked to partake in threesome's on occasion, but from what he remembered of Natalie, he didn't think she'd be the type. Was he wrong?

Wined, dined and loved by two men. Can she make the decision to love only one or will their possessiveness drive her back to Oregon?

The Review: Well you know what they say, ‘you can go home again’, but you don’t always know what to expect when you get there.

She was supposed to be convincing her grandmother to move to Oregon with her parents, but Natalie couldn’t help but be taken by the two strapping cowboys who’ve decided that she deserves some gentlemanly cowboy attention. She’s forgotten what it’s like to be treated like a lady, but Cade and Kale will make sure she never forgets again. Her suspicions and conflicted feelings are trying to get the best of her though as to what exactly do either of them see in her and more importantly what does she see with them.

Cade took one look at Natalie and just knew that he had to reacquaint himself with this at one time high school band geek. When Kale steps in and tries to do the same, the feelings that Cade experiences aren’t what he’s used to with his long-time best friend. Jealousy and competition over a woman has finally risen it’s ugly head and Natalie wants no part of it, but she can’t just walk away either. What’s a girl to do when two cowboys are vying for her attention?

This is my first read by Ms. Sullivan and it’s sure to not be my last. The first in a new series about Montana cowboys is all I need to know to continue with more of Ms. Sullivan’s fabulous work.

There were times when the story felt a little unreal with the fast progression of the relationships, since I thought Natalie’s character would come across as more reluctant given the histories and regrets of all three. However, it is a sweet romance with plenty of spice. The dialogue with the grandmother is absolutely hilarious and there were several times I had to stop and laugh before diving back in. Since there is a ménage element to the story, readers will definitely be surprised on how it all turns out with Natalie, Cade, and Kale. I do really love how it ended and would love to revisit these memorable characters in future installments.

Pagan Elements: N/A

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

Love Revisited: Nash and Paul By H.C. Brown

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: Love Revisited: Nash and Paul
Author: H.C. Brown

Author Site

Buy Link
Publisher:  Noble Romance Publishing

Genre: BDSM/Erotic/Romance/M-M

Length: 18 pgs.
Reviewed by: Gabrielle

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 4

Presentation: 4

Editing: 4

Story: 4

Writing Ability: 5

Overall Card Rating: 

                                                

About The Book:

Everything is going well for badass Dom, Nash Mage, and his sweet sub, Paul, until Nash does a favor for Rio, the owner of Floggers' BDSM Club.

Expecting Paul to trust him implicitly, Nash's world falls apart when he finds his confused, innocent sub in the arms of his nemesis, Frank. Teetering on the edge of sanity and out of control, Nash is looking for revenge.

The Review:

This quick story of Nash and Paul’s was a great read. In it we get to see the love between the two men. Nash must keep everyone thinking that he is one mean and bad Dom. He can’t let them all see how Paul has his heart. So when he does a favor for Rio he ends up hurting Paul more than he realizes and he must show Paul just how much he really means to Nash.

Nash comes off as big and scary yet we see what a soft spot he has for his sub. Paul is devastated when he finds out Nash has signed a contract with another sub and the hurt he feels is evident. I really loved the play of emotions throughout this story. We get to see strong emotions from both men. Even in the intense scene that the two share, the love that they have for each other shines through. Paul and Nash make a great couple. I enjoyed reading this story and can’t wait to see if we get to read more from these two.

Pagan Elements: N/A

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

As Timeless as Stone by Maeve Alpin

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: As Timeless as Stone
Author: Maeve Alpin  

Author Site

Buy Link 

Publisher: Lyrical Press              

Genre: Steampunk Romance

Length: 46 pgs.
Reviewed by: Brandi

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 4

Presentation: 3

Editing: 3

Story: 3

Writing Ability: 3

Overall Card Rating: 

                                                   

About The Book: In peril for her life, the Priestess Seshat turns herself to stone in ancient Egypt. Centuries later, Ricard, a dashing nineteenth century Frenchman, repairs a broken statue and reads its incantation--unprepared for the gorgeous flesh and blood woman who steps forth.

Seshat is drawn to the brass robots Ricard creates and the glamor of the Victorian age, and most of all to Ricard himself. But the society of his day cannot accept a woman like her. How far will Ricard go to secure her happiness? Is their love strong enough to transcend time itself?

The Review: Maeve Alpin has created a lightly erotic, highly romantic tale in As Timeless as Stone. From the first sentence the reader is gently enveloped in the steampunk genre, due the author’s language style and the plot-drivers of time travel and magick during the Victorian Age. The reader sees the inventions of the age through Seshat’s eyes, and when her initial confusion leads to understanding, the audience begins to comprehend the genre as well.

While Priestess Seshat and Ricard are interesting and well written characters, the book seems to drag in their interactions together. The meat of the story revolves around Seshat’s adjustment to her new life, and Ricard’s reaction to her; the little time they spend together is filled with dull sexual encounters flowered with silly language and random conversation.

While the middle of the story lacked excitement, the end of the book was wonderfully romantic, with a well-thought out conclusion. The love Ricard and Seshat have for one another becomes apparent and complete with a touching “happily-ever-after” ending.

Pagan Elements: Mentions of Egyptian mythology

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

Cyborg Doms: Fane By H.C. Brown

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: Cyborg Doms: Fane
Author: H.C. Brown

Author Site

Buy Link

Publisher: Noble Romance Publishing

Genre: Fantasy/BDSM/M-M

Length: 93 pgs.

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 3

Presentation: 4

Editing: 4.5

Story: 4

Writing Ability: 5

Overall Card Rating: 4

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

About The Book: Fane Jacobs, or 636, is a genetically and robotically enhanced human, trapped on Terros 9 in 3010 with a psychopathic owner, Gryd. His duty is to entertain Gryd's guests with his skill with the whip and his twin cocks. Denied satisfaction, his dreams are filled with the image of a sweet sub. Cyborgs have no rights on Terros 9. After his friend, Jace, is pack-raped by a group of male guests, Fane and Jace steal a starship, and travel back in time to Earth in 2040. Jace goes looking for a night with the right man, while Fane explores the city. He goes to the aid of a woman being attacked and is shot. The woman resembles the sub from his dreams. What will happen when the woman, Dr. Tamara Bright, discovers his integrated neural matrix and other enhancements on the Bio Scanner? Will she turn away or will she fall for the deliciously, handsome cyborg?

The Review:

This was a wonderful story about love and trust. When Cyborgs Fane and Jace escape from a cruel world they end up on Earth in the year 2040. While out late one night Fane comes across a woman in distress. Tamara a doctor volunteering at a clinic is being attacked. While saving her, Fane is hurt and must trust Tamara to keep his secret.

I was pulled into this story right from the start. Fane and Jace are great men; even though they are cyborgs they still retain their humanity. I enjoyed getting to know both of them and watching the relationship grow between Fane and Tamara.

Tamara is a feisty woman who can and does stand on her own two feet. She proves this when the government takes her in for questioning after finding information on Fane at her clinic. Yet she still yearns to be a submissive and finds herself going to a BDSM club to slack her needs. Little does she know that Fane is a Dom and continues to push him away. Luckily Fane is a man who is willing to fight for what he wants and Tamara’s love is just what he wants. I loved seeing the love grow between Tamara and Fane. The two must learn to trust each other and depend on that trust to get them through alive.

Not only are the main characters a great couple but we also get to meet wonderful secondary characters in this book as well and I hope that they get their own stories. Cyborg Doms: Fane is a great read and I hope a wonderful start to a new series from this author.

Pagan Elements: N/A

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

How To Sweeten A Mother-In-Law by Stephanie Beck

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: How To Sweeten A Mother-In-Law
Author: Stephanie Beck

Author Site 

Buy Link
Publisher: Untreed Reads

Genre: Holiday Anthology

Length: 9 pgs.
Reviewed by: Strega

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 4

Presentation: 4

Editing: 3

Story: 4

Writing Ability: 5

Overall Card Rating: 

                                            

The Book: Facing your in-laws at the holidays is hard enough without your mother-in-law also thinking you've stolen her prized serving dish. What Lela's about to find out is that there may be other members of her new family that have an ax to grind.

The Review: This short story is part of the mystery anthology The Killer Wore Cranberry. I was drawn to it by the title, and then found the story delightful. In nine pages the author invites us to have Thanksgiving with newlyweds Thomas and Lela at Thomas's parents' house. Lela isn't looking forward to the dinner because her mother-in-law, Marcia thinks she stole a prized casserole dish the previous Thanksgiving. Marcia has spent the past year making Lela's life miserable.

I laughed throughout the dinner as Marcia does her best to make Lela as uncomfortable as possible, but when John stands up in defense of his wife, the accusations begin to fly and the entire family is nearly brought to blows.

Other than a few editorial errors, I found this story to be well written and completely delightful.

Pagan Elements: None

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

Midnight Star by Billi Jean

Title: Midnight Star

Author: Billi Jean

Author Site

Buy Link

Publisher: Noble Romance Publishing

Genre: Contemporary/Paranormal/Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Length: 295 pgs.
Reviewed by: yadkny

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 5

Presentation: 5

Editing: 3.5

Story: 4

Writing Ability: 4

Overall Card Rating: 

                                           

About The Book: One mission could bring them together or cost them their lives.

Star has kept her guard up when it comes to letting others in to her life and for good reason. She lives in a lighthouse and that is the way she likes living – alone. She has adopted family that she is close to, but she doesn’t really feel like she belongs and is an outcast to her own kind. The “House” that she grew up in was not quite family oriented and it doesn’t help when your adopted family is part of a species that is sworn to hate everything about you before they actually know you, so in that regard she is an outcast on both sides. Two females and a few friends of similar outcasted circumstance, keep her grounded as much as possible. Since the meeting of one particular Lykae, her world has been turned upside down and she finds herself in constant battle of cravings and thoughts that she wished she didn’t have, but his disgust of her keeps her firmly away from him. Now all of sudden he’s decided to treat her differently, but she can’t fathom why. With ever-mounting distrust and much reluctance for several reasons, she agrees to go with him and a small team on a missing Lykae recovery mission back to the last place she’d rather be.

Ranger knows exactly who Star is and won’t be dissuaded by anyone from claiming her. Trouble is he made the error of waiting to long in wooing his female, so now her regard for him is even lower than it was before. Throw in the problem of a missing Lykae packmate and Ranger decides to combine the two in a ‘knock to birds down with one stone’ approach. Star’s unique ability and familiarity with the location makes her the perfect partner for the mission, but he knows she’s smart and doesn’t have any reason to agree, so he decides to obtain her cooperation with the use of a 10-year old and the promise of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. It’s a brilliant plan, with the exception of everything that could possibly go wrong, so will it be enough to change Star’s mind?

The Review: Any reader will fall in love with Ranger and immediately recognize his alpha-male characteristics especially with them all displayed in full Lykae glory and with a brogue accent no less. His brand of wooing Star isn’t exactly conventional but with Star’s personality, he wouldn’t have gotten far with her otherwise. Ranger is extremely possessive, as are all of the Lykae in this story when it comes to their mates, but it isn’t an unattractive, overbearing possession without choice for Star. He does make it awfully hard for her to resist him, but that’s part of the territory. The banter back and forth between the characters is entertaining and there are a few lengthy scenes with just the two of them, so it allows the reader to really focus in on their personalities.

Ms. Jean’s writing style is fresh and you never know what any of the characters are going to say, think, or do next. I could actually picture it from beginning to end like watching a movie. There are familiar creatures of all sorts to appeal to any readers taste and the world built around them is fantastic. The story gets going right from the beginning with the prologue and the reader will need to pay close attention so not a minute of the action is missed. There were quite a few moments of confusion for me, since all of the characters and situations are new, and not enough background is given to really set everything up. Almost feels like the reader is plunked down right into the middle of a brewing storm of character activity without a history base to hold on to, but I still couldn’t help getting swept away with it and neither will any other reader of this genre. Wonderful twist at the end and it sets it up nicely in case this is to be part of a series, since there are several other characters with stories that need to be told.

I’ll definitely be keeping my reading eye out for any other works by Ms. Jean.

Pagan Elements: N/A

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

Spanking Cupid by Dana Littlejohn

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: Spanking cupid
Author: Dana Littlejohn

Author Site

Buy Link

Reviewed by: Gabrielle
Publisher:  Secret Cravings Publishing

Genre: Interracial romance/light bdsm/spanking

Length: 35 pgs.

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 3

Presentation: 4

Editing: 4

Story: 3.5

Writing Ability: 4

Overall Card Rating: 

                                                 

The Book: Sabena Darin had the equivalent of a school girl crush on Gavin Brooks, a guy 
she worked along side of for the last two years. He was volunteered to be the 
office Cupid and pass out the goodies.

As she walked by his office, Sabena saw him bent over retrieving something 
that fell to the floor. Her imagination went crazy and she pictured herself 
slapping his butt with gusto. Gavin caught her eying him and warned her that 
spanking Cupid had consequences.

Despite his warning and with his permission, Sabena gave into her urge. It 

wasn’t until later in the day did find out warnings were put in place for a reason. 

The Review:

Spanking Cupid was an interesting story. I enjoyed much of the bantering that goes on in this story. Sabena is a strong woman who knows what she wants and is not afraid to reach for it. When she finally decides to indulge and play with Gavin her fantasies may become reality. Gavin is a good man who decides to take the matter of Sabena in his own hands, literally. Watching the two reach for their happy ever after was a nice read.

The author does a wonderful job of pulling the reader into the story and kept me entertained all the way to the end. As the title implies, this story does include spanking so if that offends you, you may want to think before reading it. I myself enjoyed this story. I loved seeing a woman who is strong enough to want to explore her needs and wants, as well as a man who is more than willing to help her out.

Pagan Elements: N/A

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.

What Legends are Made Of by Heather Beck

THE PAGAN & THE PEN BOOK REVIEWS

Title: What Legends are Made Of
Author: Heather Beck

Author Site

Buy Link
Publisher: Diamond Dust Books

Genre: romance, horror, fantasy

Length: 143 pages

Reviewed by: Keri Stratton Alley

RATINGS FOR:

Cover: 4

Presentation: 4

Editing: 4

Story: 1

Writing Ability: 2

Overall Card Rating: 

About The Book: What Legends Are Made Of is a collection of short stories that range within the genres of romance, horror, and fantasy. Each story takes the reader into a realistic world where unbelievable events occur. Have you ever experienced a story filled with so much suspense, terror, and romance that you couldn't get it out of your mind? Be prepared to feel all of these emotions because author Heather Beck is about to take you on a journey that you won't soon forget. You're personally invited to tour the halls of Sir Tristan's Estate, a place where ghosts roam freely and fill your dreams at night. Following your stay at the estate, you'll cruise on the Blue Oceana, a perfect ship for sightseeing. With patience and a careful eye you might see the merman that lives in the crystal clear ocean. If you enjoyed watching the odd ocean creature while aboard the ship, you'll love Frank Stanford's Freak Show. There you'll see a unicorn with wings and a talking tree. However, it's the freak show's horrifying main attraction that shocks everyone who sees it. If you can stop shaking after your encounter with freaky Frank, continue on to Karyn and Max Shield's Costume and Magic Shop; just be careful of what you purchase there since the merchandise at the Shield's shop is perhaps too realistic. Some stories make your heart soar, while others make you scream aloud; these stories will make you do both. They'll leave you spellbound and yearning for more. Ready to find out what real legends are made of? Turn the page.

The Review: All through this collection of short stories, I could see what Ms. Beck was aiming to do. She has some interesting ideas, and fresh takes on somewhat traditional story ideas. However, this collection missed the mark for me every time. Each tale read more like an overly long synopsis of a good story, rather than the story itself. I'll address each story in turn.

Sir Tristan's Estate. I think Ms. Beck was going for a mix of horror and romance with this story. The attraction that Skye feels for Tom begins to be developed in their initial meeting, and there is a genuine sense of romantic tension. If the kind of interaction written at the outset could have continued, this might have been a good romance. What's off-putting is when the author simply states an emotional conclusion instead of showing it in a well-worded scene. Here's an example:

“Thank you for all your help!” Skye called out as Tom walked away.

“Have sweet dreams.”

Tom’s wishes for a good night seemed unusual to Skye. Instead of analyzing it, she decided to blame her sleep deprivation on her view of his evasive nature.

As a reader, I don't want to be told that his behavior was unusual - I want to be shown. There was no indication in the preceding conversation that Tom was evasive; quite the contrary. He spent paragraphs telling Skye about the ghost of the Estate and immediately prior to the above excerpt revealed that an heir to the estate had been found. Hardly evasive behavior.

Unfortunately, this pattern continues not only through this first story but throughout the rest of the tales in this collection. The few scenes that are fleshed out enough to be engaging do show a great deal of promise with regard to the author's ability. But there is no consistency with writing style that continues to engage me as a reader.

Freaky Frank. Another romance, this time mixed with fantasy. I got stuck while reading this one; there was not enough detail in the interactions between Frank and Brittany to keep me interested. Again, instead of showing the reader why Brittany was beginning to trust Frank, the author simply states that she does. I found myself feeling skeptical about the interactions between the two because there was no real depth to their relationship aside from their first few encounters.

Blue Water. I think this was my favorite of the four stories. The romantic tension between the two main characters held my interest and I really appreciated Ms. Beck's alternative merman/mermaid creation story as well as her interesting take on merman/mermaid reproduction needs. Quite inventive. Again, I feel this story could have used a bit more fleshing out, but it was the most complete of the four.

One Stop Horror Shop. A little bit of creative editing could have helped this story. There were two main concepts that converged to make up this tale; the transition between the two seemed choppy and disjointed. I would have appreciated a bit of extra foreshadowing in the first portion and less of the unnecessary interaction between the children at the outset of the second portion. In fact, this may be the only story in which I felt that Ms. Beck did too much interaction between the characters! However, again, the twists in this story were inventive and showed a flair for surprise story telling.            

                                                         * * *

Ms. Beck certainly has a flair for imaginative scenarios. However, after the initial scenes, she seems to rush toward the ending. I realize that her goal was to create short stories instead of novellas, but I would gladly have read more words in order to get that literary fulfillment I crave when I pick up a new book. Ms. Beck, please write longer stories. This reviewer would gladly give a more fleshed out story a try.

Pagan Elements: N/A

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Disclaimer: Due to FTC regulations, any book reviewed on this site was sent for free by the author to The Pagan & The Pen. We are not paid to give reviews by Author or Publisher. Once review has been made, said books are deleted.