This past weekend I made a major dent in the tbr pile (check out my recent reads on the left sidebar) and I thought I’d share some thoughts about a few of those that were my stand outs. Here they are (in no particular order):
David’s Dilemma by Lynn Lorenz
Why I bought it: It was a pressie.
Mini-chomp:
Dislike~ I’m not sure what others thought, but from early on I could pretty much see what was coming in terms of the climax. I’m honest enough to admit it did affect my enjoyment of the book; however, overall it was relatively minor.
Like~ One of my things at the moment is a great interest – respect even – for m/m romance books which are different to the norm. In this case, it was refreshing to read a book featuring two older protags meeting and connecting as well as the realities of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s.
So, what I think: A must for fans of this author and recommended for those who, like me, are interested in stories that are a bit different.
A Dream Come True by Addison Albright
Why I bought it: I’m pretty sure I bought this after reading a review by Emmy.
Mini-chomp:
Dislike~ I prefer the build up to a sexual relationship so I can be a bit tetchy about ones where the guys fall into bed pretty quickly. Having said this, I did think it formed part of the story insomuch that both protags, especially Mike, come to the realisation that what they have is something more than just convenient sex.
Like~ This was a good, solid romantic read with some terrific characters. I think one of the main reasons why I liked it so much was that it seemed so ‘real’. No serial killers or stalkers, but lots of simple, day-to-day life circumstances. It was great.
So, what I think: This was a new to me author and someone I will definitely be trying again.
St Nacho’s 2: Physical Therapy by Z A Maxfield
Why I bought it: ZAM = auto buy.
Mini-chomp:
Dislike~ I’m pretty sure this is a me thing, but I’m getting a little tired of the interfering family member and/or friend. I’m not saying it wasn’t relevant to the story or that it didn’t help to progress the plot or anything in Physical Therapy. It’s just that I’m beginning to find it a little too stock standard in m/m romance. Maybe it’s me though…
Like~ One of the protags, Jordan, was introduced to the reader in St Nacho’s (the first book in the series). I thoroughly enjoyed revisiting him and seeing how he had grown as a character – redeemed himself, I guess – in the intervening period. In all honesty, I think this was my favourite aspect of the story.
So, what I think: Whilst I preferred St Nacho’s, I’m definitely loving this series. An absolute must for fans of ZAM and for those who are thinking about giving this author a try.
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‘Tasting’ is my version of a mini-review where I talk a (very) little about what I liked and disliked about a book as well as who I think the story will appeal to. Oh, and I’ve added a bit about why I picked up the book in the first place – sometimes this can be interesting to know.
… to make me kick another series to the kerb. Let me give you a hint…
Maybe it’s the cycle of the moon or maybe it’s PMS, but lately a couple of little things in m/m books are making me crazy. This is not related to plot holes big enough to drive a Winnebago through, nor to the sheer proliferation of enormous sexual organs, but to small things so annoying I had to rant to my teenager about number 1.
#1 – Closed bedroom doors
Who in the hell keeps their bedroom door shut when they are not home? Then someone says “But I want to keep my roommate/kids/pets out of the room.” Okay, those are really the ONLY time I can see keeping a door shut. All of the times I’ve noticed it, the protag in question lives alone, not even a freaking cat to do the “scratchy scratchy” thing that cats are so good at.
Now yes, it is nice and dramatic and hot when you can slam your partner against the closed door. But really, there is a wall in the bedroom and for me that only works with the front door. Keep your full body slams to the entryway please and open the damn bedroom door.
#2 – Condoms in the hotel night table drawer
I’ve stayed in plenty of hotels in my day and when I get to a hotel I do NOT put anything personal in the night table. I sometimes check out of curiosity just to see of those sneaky Gideons have been there with their Bibles, but that’s it. Anything personal that I would likely carry in my little travel kit would be on the dresser or in the bathroom.
I’m always amazed when characters travelling with NO intention of having sex, (just broke up, celibate monk) meet a sexy stranger in the lobby and go up to their hotel room within hours of arriving and have already placed the lube and condoms in the drawer of the night table. I’m not saying they might not have them in their travel kit. Hell, I have stuff in there that I never take out, but to put it in the drawer? Sigh Only a couple of times have I ever read someone saying “they’re in my shaving kit on the dresser” or “they are in my luggage” and believe it or not his dick didn’t explode when he had to wait 7.5 seconds for the other guy to retrieve the goods. I know it’s just a convenience to say “in the drawer”, but really, let’s insert just a smidgen of realism here people.
So there are two of my big bug-a-boos, along with eating mousse with a fork. 🙂 Sometimes it can be simple things that make the story move faster so they just gloss over it, but its enough that it takes me out of the book and I have a “Crap, not again!” moment, then continue on. So what little thing(s) makes you crazy when you read? Or is it just me?
 | Kayla on tasting ‘a note in the… |
 | Marcus Roche on maybe it’s me, but… |
 | ouaqquwcgk on my confession |
 | dkmhwgijnw on random awesomeness |
 | Kris on maybe it’s me, but… |
Kris + Books = Good. *Sometimes*. 