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.