Under and Over It by Megan Slayer

January 17, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Under and Over It by Megan Slayer
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short Story (52 Pages)
Other: BDSM, M/M, Anal Play, Exhibitionism, Fetish, Spanking
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Foxglove

Regan Finley’s photography makes the local music scene shine. He’s four months from his final exhibition and graduation. But instead of preparing for the party, he’s fretting about his exhibition theme — bondage and passion. There’s one person he wants to make his exhibition come to life, if he can convince his housemate to participate.

Camryn Tate plays the music that makes the young girls scream. He likes being a local rock hero. When he finds out what Regan wants for the exhibition, Cam has to make a decision. He can let Regan have his commanding way and get the pictures he needs for the exhibition, or he can walk away from the best roommate and friend he’s ever known… all because of a little ball of nylon rope.

Megan Slayer has a way of bringing passion to life in her stories, and making each book a joy to read. With Under and Over It, she explores the sensual fetish of Shibari, the rope tying practice of bondage.

Regan Finley has specific ideas for his final for photography class, and those ideas include his best friend and roommate, Camryn Tate, and a ball of rope. Regan wants to explore things with Camryn, and not just for his project. He has wanted Cam since the first time he laid eyes on him, but is afraid that Cam isn’t into guys or the things Regan wants to do to and with him. Regan has never been dominant before, but Cam brings out something in him that he would love to explore. But asking Cam to be his model, and maybe more, has Regan terrified he will lose the best friend he has.

Camryn is a hot rocker in their Middle America home of Cleveland, and what Regan wants to do for this project scares him a little, but he trusts Regan to keep him safe. He’s never been into bondage or rope play, but he trusts Regan to explain every step as they go along. And besides, anything that gets Cam naked with Regan can’t be bad, right?

I enjoyed watching Regan and Cam discover what each liked, and their desire to be together. I was happy that she made sure Regan didn’t just push Cam into something without explaining and preparing him for it all. It made the story all the more touching to see to what lengths each would go to show their feelings.

Regan Finley is smart and talented, and just a bit of a nerd. But he is a fantastic photographer, and has a bright future ahead of him. He wants to finish his degree with an exhibition showing how people become bound to their lives and wants his roommate Camryn as his model. I love that Regan is not the macho all gung-ho guy, but has a lot of insecurity where Cam is concerned. I really liked the little things Regan does to convince Cam to pose, and to be with him.

Camryn Tate is magic when he is holding his guitar. A talented musician and songwriter, Cam has secrets and insecurities of his own. He doesn’t believe his luck that Regan feels the same about him as he does about Regan, and wonders why it took them so long to get together. I loved that although apprehensive, he trusts Regan to take care of him and not hurt him. I cried when he finally opened up and was honest with Regan about his past, and the reasons for his doubts.

This is an exploration of passion by two people learning to please each other, and learning what their limits are, in life and in love. It is a compliment to Ms Slayer that, once I started reading, gender ceased to matter, and the love story came to the forefront here. These are two people, learning to love and please each other and planning a future together, and nothing is more special than that to me. If you aren’t comfortable with man-to-man touching, and more, this is not the book for you, but I enjoyed this, and look forward to more from Ms. Slayer in the future.

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Protect and Serve: Don’t Need A Hero by Lena Austin

January 5, 2012 By 1 Comment

Protect and Serve: Don’t Need A Hero by Lena Austin
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Paranormal, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Short Story (60 pages)
Other: M/F
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

When cat shifter Petra (aka Pete) becomes the victim of “friendly fire” during the apprehension of a bank robber, panther shifter cop Apollo Jones feels obligated to make sure she’s okay. Pete’s positive she doesn’t need another hero in her life, and Apollo’s out to prove her wrong.

This story isn’t all games and bedroom romping, though what there was of it was thoroughly entertaining. There’s also a wonderful emotional hook towards the end that had me blubbering like a baby. It also inspired me to re-read the story, which didn’t take long because it’s so short. The second time around I read it with fresh enthusiasm because of the great reveal and ended up enjoying it all over again because of the different viewpoint.

Aunt Pete a/k/a Pete or Petra is a survivor. She beat the odds that were stacked against her when she was little with the help of some friends, and she never looked back. At least, not with her eyes open. Her dreams are another matter. Pete holds her heart close because she’s been hurt before but when she meets the police officer who assisted in the earlier action in the story, she only half-heartedly fought the attraction. I think in her heart she always yearned for that total love and acceptance she’d once known and something about Officer Apollo made her purr.

Apollo is written as a very delicious and capable man who knows his way around a woman’s body as well as he handles his weapon. Take that reference any way you wish because both would be true. The author made it clear that the hero knew how to please Pete until she was a pile of contented jelly. In fact, his courtship of Pete truly embraced this series’ title “serve and protect” – and he did both with determination, focus and success. I liked him as a hero.

As with all the books written in this series, each chapter takes a turn at being written in the first person point of view for each protagonist. This story continued with that style and I enjoyed it. However, this tale is special and different because even though the author let me get into Apollo’s head a bit, he still kept a secret that he didn’t reveal until he was ready. And that was the part that zinged my heart, made me tear up and garnered a higher rating for this story. I was all set to be entertained with some sizzling sheet action and witty dialogue between the characters and I certainly got all of that, but the last revelation truly made this book shine. It made me care, gave me the chills and I wanted to hug someone. As it was, Pete got all the hugging and more from Apollo, her hunky hero.

For readers who might pass on this story because of its shortness or hot sexy content, be assured that there is a wonderfully sentimental and sweet component that made the happy ever after truly exceptional. Of course when Apollo and Pete get together, the fur, claws and meows fly, and it’s a lot of fun, but this book also gives readers that extra something that not all books in this series delivers. It’s a well written and complete romance that I have no problem recommending and in fact, it’s one of the best ones that I’ve read. Don’t Need a Hero isn’t E=MC2 but it certainly entertained, passed the time and left a smile on my face. Don’t Need a Hero is a gem in the Protect and Serve series that futuristic paranormal romance fans shouldn’t want to miss. I’m glad I read it.

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Demon’s Captive by Selena Illyria

January 4, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Demon’s Captive by Selena Illyria
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Paranormal, Contemporary
Length: Short Story (43 pages)
Other: BDSM, M/F, Forced Seduction, Toys
Rating: 3.5 stars
Reviewed by Verbena

Hellhound/werewolf Casey Mae can track anything put in front of her. The bounty is everything. She doesn’t have time for distractions, especially if they come in the form of a dark-haired, green-eyed sex demon. Just because he says he wants her doesn’t mean she has to want him. Does it?

Blaise has wanted Casey Mae since he first laid eyes on her. He’s not taking no for an answer even if he has to tie her up. Come morning, she won’t be able to deny what she feels for him. He’ll make sure of it.

For the first time in her life, her hellhound has left her high and dry.

Tied up and at the mercy of a ruthless sex demon, Casey Mae finds herself at the wrong end of the rope. Question is, is she a helpless prisoner or willing captive? Bound by more than just the cords around her wrists, can Casey abandon a lifetime of suppressed emotions and let Blaise have more than just a good time with her body?

A Hellhound by birth and bounty hunter by nature, Casey lived for one thing and one thing only: the next target. She didn’t need sex, didn’t need female fluff, she just needed the next job and the tools to complete it. So what is it about Blaise that drives her insane? She’d stayed at his hotel a time or two—it was the only place around that offered protection for paranormal creatures like herself—but she certainly didn’t see why the very thought of him drove her to contemplate things she’d rather not dwell on. If he were something other than a sex demon, she might even consider giving him a go between the sheets, scratch the infernal itch she had around him. But sex demons were notorious for wreaking havoc on their bed partners, and she had no desire to be the next notch in his bedpost, so to speak.

Blaise can have any woman he wants—he is a sex demon, after all, and a master of seduction. But the one he wants won’t even give him the time of day. He knows she’s attracted to him; the desire in her eyes and aroma of her sex speaks louder than the lack of interest she portrays. He’s waited a long time for her to come to her senses and acknowledge the magnetism between them. Since she seems hell bent on denying him, he’ll just have to take matters into his own hands—as well as a few other parts of his body. A lucky break in the weather affords him the opportunity he’s been waiting for. Before the night is through, he vows she’ll be begging for more. Funny thing is; he might just get more than what he bargained for.

Demon’s Captive is one of those books that you can read in one sitting. The pace is very quick and non-stop. I enjoyed the power-struggle between these two, but wish the author would have taken more time to build characters. Ms. Illyira does provide enough information to get a decent understanding of Casey Mae’s and Blaise’s personalities, and why the two have such a hard time relinquishing control. The banter between them is entertaining. I did notice a few minor point-of-view violations, but most readers would probably overlook these. While I would like to have seen some more character development, the author fulfills the main purpose of the story. Overall, I enjoyed reading it.

Don’t have time for a full-length tale but want to get your hands on a hot and juicy read during lunch? Then grab a copy of Demon’s Captive by Selena Illyria, she doesn’t disappoint. It’s the perfect read to warm up a chilly afternoon.

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Tuesday Spotlight: Changeling Press

December 13, 2011 By 2 Comments

Changeling’s White Hot Christmas / Free Books for a Year contest is here!
White Hot Christmas Week 1:

White Hot Christmas: Holiday Moon by B.J. McCall
Erotic Romance, Paranormal, Werewolves, Christmas, Men and Women in Uniform

When these two come together the rules of engagement no longer apply.

Operation Holiday Moon sends Sgt. Sezri Adar and her werewolf team deep into enemy territory. Wounded, Sezri orders her wolves to leave her behind. On her own, she must avoid capture and make it to the secondary pickup point.

Being the only human on the team has presented special challenges for Major Calix Klatt, especially when his second-in-command is the sexiest female he’s ever encountered. She’s brave and beautiful, but a relationship with Sezri would destroy any cred he’s built with the werewolves.

When Sezri is MIA, Calix’s duty is to wait out the holiday and hopes she survives. But the heart doesn’t always listen to the head and putting his career on the line is the least of his fears.

White Hot Christmas: Clothing Optional by Cynthia Sax
Urban Fantasy, Christmas, Elves, Dragons & Magical Creatures

Every Christmas, an ancient demon stalks and murders fairies. Until this killer is apprehended, each fairy is assigned a demon protector. Otho volunteers to protect Prism, the most uptight fairy on the face of the planet.

Or so he thinks…

When Otho arrives at Prism’s house three hours early and spots his blue-haired fairy streaking down the street completely nude, he realizes his perfect fairy is only perfect for him.

Unfortunately, he is not the only demon with eyes on her bare buttocks.

‘Tis the season for running naked in the snow!

White Hot Christmas: Her Feral Destiny by Ruth D. Kerce
Paranormal, Ménage, Werewolves, Christmas

Seduced by wolves — twice! — Janie can’t forget Sawyer, Dall, and Cavan. During the Christmas holiday, she returns to Minnesota to finally solve the mystery behind the sexy wolf-men.

Sawyer, Dall, and Cavan are thrilled to see Janie again and give her an erotic welcome-back like only they can. But now, they must protect her from the danger she’s put herself in by returning.

Sex, a government cover-up, and a fate nobody imagines awaits them all. Janie doesn’t fear the future though, for she’s found her place in the pack and will never leave again.

White Hot Christmas: Wrapped Around by Megan Slayer
Paranormal, BDSM, Magic, Christmas, M/M

Christmas is the time to celebrate — with candy, shiny paper, and lots of white-hot sex.

Luc loves his role fronting the band Glow. He loves the adoration of the fans, the energy in the crowd… but it’s Christmas. No one likes a Christmas alone.

Taygan’s free spirit resists taming — except when it comes to Luc. Luc’s one hundred percent human. Taygan is all air elemental. He needs his space and freedom, but he’ll do whatever it takes to make Luc happy, including giving up his space and freedom to make Luc’s holiday one he’ll never forget — complete with the real Santa, peppermint candy, and lots of hot sex.

Available now at http://www.changelingpress.com/catalog.php?upt=book&ufilter=series&sid=347

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Monday Spotlight: Changeling Press

December 12, 2011 By Leave a Comment

You’ve probably seen the promo — “Win Free Books For A Year — Our A Very Changeling 8th Annual Christmas Contest just got bigger and better than ever!”
So why do we run a Christmas give-away? We started our very first Christmas, looking for a way to give something back. Yes, we could have done chocolate or teas or even day spas, but it seemed like our readers would love what we love — Christmas stories! We asked authors to come up with a Christmas short story for a series we called Hot Toddies. Many of these stories became part of our first paperback anthology, A Changeling For All Seasons, which is now available in our ebook collection, as well.

Since that first Christmas in 2004, we’ve kept up with the tradition, offering a dozen (some times a bakers’ dozen!) Christmas stories every year and a chance to win free books for a year. Each year has a theme — Hot Toddies, 12 Nights of Christmas, Stocking Stuffers, Christmas Cookies, Gingersnaps, Holiday Howlz, and Sugarplums, as well as this year’s White Hot Christmas. You can see all the Christmases past and present (OK, BAD pun!) at ChangelingPress.com under Christmas!

Last year we introduced a new twist, thanks to Tony, our Web Guru. Winners may now pick whatever books they wish each month, rather than being limited to the new releases. For 2011 the choices seem to have been pretty evenly split, between the new releases and our collections. This year there are more prizes than ever.

White Hot Christmas Is Here!

Win Free Books For A Year — Our A Very Changeling 8th Annual Christmas Contest just got bigger and better than ever!

Eight readers will win Free Books For A Year:

One book a month (Four winners, 12 books each)
Two books a month (Two winners, 24 books each)
Two books a week (Two winners, 104 books each!)
Plus — 12 Chances to Win Changeling Gift Certificates!

Our Twelve Days of Christmas winners will receive Changeling Gift Certificates for $5, $10, and $25 — one random winner for each White Hot Christmas title on release day!

The best part — all you have to do to enter is buy any White Hot Christmas title at www.ChangelingPress.com during the month of December! Buy any White Hot Christmas story and you’re automatically entered to win. Every purchase of a White Hot Christmas story counts as a contest entry.

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Oathbound by Mychael Black

December 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Oathbound by Mychael Black
Dark Reign Series
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Sci-fi/fantasy, paranormal
Length: Short Story (23 pgs)
Other: M/M, anal sex
Rating: 4.5 cherries
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Vaughn Burke is an Enforcer — a werewolf working for Marcus Deleon and tasked to help their kind escape from the vampire Dalton Gray. When Marcus gives Vaughn a new case, it’s not exactly what Vaughn expects.

Elian Levine is the guitarist for a metal band, but he has a secret no one knows. When he managed to escape Dalton Gray, he kept the truth hidden, even from his band mates. Now their need for a singer threatens to tear the lid off his closely-guarded past.

There’s some totally hot weres out there and they are ready for war.

Oathbound is the second in the series, but if you start with this book, you won’t be lost. This story stands well on its own and is engaging. The writing is tight and flows well. Once I started the book, I couldn’t put it down. I felt like I was right there with Elian and Vaughn, fighting the good fight and chasing the hot chase.

Elian and Vaughn are characters I won’t forget. Why? Both are flawed. Vaughn is more than a little highly wound and Elian has secrets. I liked the interplay between them even when it seemed like the only one who knew they had chemistry was me. These two men care about each other and the fear they feel is palpable. I understood why they had their issues and wanted to see them get their happily ever after.

And can I mention the sex? It’s hot. I mean, melt the screen hot. I loved seeing the walls come down between Elian and Vaughn. I won’t tell you how it ends because I don’t want to spoil the story, but trust me, it’s worth reading again and again.

Grab a copy of Oathbound. You’ll be glad you did.

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Bringing Her Home by S Michael

December 5, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Bringing Her Home by S. Michael
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Sci-fi/Fantasy
Length: Short Story (42 pgs)
Other: M/M, anal sex, M/F, M/F/M, menage
Rating: 4.5 cherries
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Spoiled and beautiful, Kelsi is the daughter of the former pack leader. Now that he’s stepped down, it’s time for her to choose a mate. She has two different males in her sights and she cares for both of them. Keifer is the smaller of the two, slender and lovely, sweet and kind, and he looks at her with adoration in his eyes. Gage, on the other hand, is big and buff, hot and possessive, and his gaze fills her with heat. How’s a girl to choose?

Wolves mate for life, so where does that leave werewolf Kelsi when she stumbles on the two of them in bed together? It looks like she’s had the choice made for her. Shocked and hurt, she runs from the pack lands. Gage and Keifer are determined to find Kelsi. When they do, they’ll do whatever it takes to convince her they’re not complete on their own…

Talk about a long goodbye… or is it a long welcome home?

When I see an S. Michael title up for review, I have to stop and browse. I’ve never been let down by one of the author’s books and this one is no exception. Bringing Her Home combines the best of contemporary and paranormal menage romance and spins it into a great story I couldn’t put down. The characters stayed with me long after the end of the book and I reread the book more than once simply to relive the emotions and turmoil in the pages. The writing flowed well and kept me right in my seat needing to know what would happen next.

I loved the combination of Kief and Gage. These two men just love each other. Sure, they aren’t perfect and a little thick in the head at times, but they are so lovable. Seeing them express their feelings for each other, even in the little ways was sexy. Then there’s Kelsi. I could completely understand her feelings in the beginning and I liked how the author played it out. My heart ached when she had to deal with the pain early on. Sure, there were times when I thought she was a little whiny and I’d have liked her to figure things out a little faster, but that’s why I didn’t write the story. I couldn’t get the build up and the palpable feeling of Kelsi’s twin sensations of desire and confusion S. Michael weaves into the story.

This book stayed with me because I had to rehash and replay what happened in my head. I didn’t want to let Gage, Kelsi, and Kief go. Want to immerse yourself in their story? Then grab a copy of Bringing Her Home. It’s a great read.

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Lunar Eclipse Collection by B.J. McCall

November 30, 2011 By 1 Comment

Lunar Eclipse Collection by B.J. McCall
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Science Fiction/Fantasy
Length: Short Story (148 Pages)
Other: M/F
Rating: 4.5 Cherries
Reviewed by Foxglove

Lycaon Moon: Veda has left the pack, rejecting its edicts, its laws and the lycan rituals. The last thing she wants in her life is an alpha wolf and since leaving the pack, she’s refused to run beneath the Lycaon Moon. Kane’s been gone for three years, but he’s back and determined to mate with Veda.

Lunar Eclipse: The pack elders order Violet Winter to choose a mate by the conclusion of the lunar eclipse. Violet wants to mate for love and in defiance of their edict seduces an unacceptable half-breed. Canon Ross is establishing his place in his mother’s pack until he’s seduced by a she-wolf, but the flames ignited aren’t easily extinguished and Canon refuses to be dismissed.

Mark of the Moon: The mark of the moon prophecy ordains that Ivy Ward must mate with the werewolf bearing a birthmark similar to the one she bears, a crescent shaped moon. Lodan Hunt bears the Mark, but there is far more to this prophecy than a preordained mate.

This is a delightful collection of wolf stories, and I was caught up in the world Ms McCall built here.

Shifters live by the rules of the pack. They follow their Alpha, whether they agree with the rules or not, or face being banished or alone. BJ McCall has written three stories of unusual shifters, wolves that go out of their way to flaunt the rules and live life on their own terms. Until they each come up against the one thing they can’t escape: their one true mate, one destined to love them and stand with them.

In Lycaon Moon, Veda Pearl has chosen to go her own way, refusing to run under the Lycaon Moon that lets her mate claim her. She wants no part of the pack or the mating process.

Passing for human, Veda is a bounty hunter, satisfied with life away from the pack. At least she was, until Kane came back into her life after being banished from the pack three years ago. Kane Ryland is as determined to claim Veda as she is to avoid being claimed. Can Kane win Veda’s heart and convince her to accept him?

In Lunar Eclipse, Violet Winters is determined to mate for love. When pack elders decree she must choose a mate before the end of the lunar eclipse. Violet rebels, and decides to choose the least acceptable prospect. She seduces a half-breed wolf, one trying to find acceptance with the pack his mother left years ago to marry a human. Canon Ross succumbs to Violet’s seduction, and decides to do the right thing by facing the elders who must decide both their fates. Can these two find love in spite of the way they met?

In Mark of the Moon, Ivy Ward is destined to mate with the wolf who bears the Mark of the Moon, a crescent shaped birthmark that matches the one she has. As a result, she was considered off limits in her hometown, even gaining the nickname Poison Ivy. She takes an extended vacation to California, where no one knows of her birthmark or the prophecy it involves. Lodan Hunt is participating in a grueling forty mile cross country race, a race he has won two years in a row, with the lead in this years competition. At least he leads until the sudden jolt of electricity up his spine and the enticing smell of she-wolf throws him off his stride. Once the race is over, he realizes the crescent moon birthmark he has is burning like fire. Ivy doesn’t understand why, after brushing the fur of one of the wolves racing past her, the birthmark that causes her so much frustration has begun to sting and burn. Can these two find each other, and fulfill the prophecy as they were meant to?

BJ McCall has a marvelous way with shifters, especially her werewolves. The characters in these three stories are all well crafted and finely detailed. Each has their own unique style and personality, and all are fun to meet and get to know. These each take place in different locales, but the world remains decidedly constant and interesting.

The three women are all strong, and as different as can be. Veda is strong and independent, choosing to ignore her wolf side as long as possible. Violet is soft and determined to mate and marry for love and no other reason. Ivy is ready for some fun in a strange place, where no one knows about her mark or the prophecy. But all three share some common traits. All are strong, sassy and determined to live life on their own terms, rather than be dictated to. I like that in all of Ms McCall’s books, and especially with these three women.

The men are all determined and ready to settle down. Kane is strong and refuses to give up on Veda. Canon wants to learn about his wolf side, but he also wants the woman he loves by his side while he learns. Lodan has always doubted the prophecy, until s twist of fate brings Ivy into his world. But all three will do whatever it takes to keep their mates in their lives. I like the determination Ms. McCall instills in her men, and that never give up attitude they all have.

I loved the brief glimpses into pack rules, laws and traditions as decided upon for this world, and I look forward to more in this world in the future. There is a happy ever after and two happy for now with future stories to come here. I recommend these for all shifter fans, but keep the fan on, and a supply of cold drinks, because like all of Ms McCall’s work, these can get hot.

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Fire Woman by Megan Slayer

November 29, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Fire Woman by Megan Slayer
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Short Story (56 Pages)
Other: M/F
Rating: 4.5 Cherries
Reviewed by Foxglove

Atria Moline isn’t your average photographer. She controls fire. Sounds fun, being able to scorch whenever you like? Think again. She’s lonely and desperate for the touch of the man who can dance in her flame — if she doesn’t immolate him first.

Zac “Iceman” Frost controls the stage with his band Glow. He’s not about to back down from Atria’s challenge. He’s got secrets of his own and his sights set on her.

Fire Woman is Megan Slayer’ first book. I loved the world created in this story, and I sincerely hope to see more of the world of Glow and the band members who make up this unique group.

Atria Moline is a photographer. But she has a secret, one that has kept her alone for most of her adult life. Atria is a fire elemental, and she can’t be with the one man she has loved since the day she met him; at least not without turning him to ashes with her fire.

Zacchaeus ‘Iceman’ Frost is the bass player for the popular band Glow, Atria’srother Lucien’s band, and the most gorgeous male she has ever seen. She’s kept her distance, because she doesn’t want to be the cause of his destruction. When Atria is threatened by another magical fire elemental, Zac hides her to protect her from Niccolo. As he spends time with her, Zac become more convinced she is the one woman for him.

But Zac has been hiding a secret of his own: he is a water elemental, and controls ice. He realizes that Atria is his counterpart, the one being who balances his power. Can Zac save her from Niccolo? Can he convince her they belong together? When a deluded fan tries to come between them, can Zac survive it all?

The characters in this story are well defined, with just the hint of supernatural powers to make them different. These are people who could live down the street or across town from you, but they have that something special to keep them from being ordinary.

Atria Moline is strong and sassy, but afraid to open up and live life. She wants Zac, but fears her desire would destroy him. I loved her sarcastic wit and her determination to face her demons on her own terms, no matter the cost. I enjoyed watching as temptation lured her in and brought her to Zac’s side.

Zacchaeus ‘Zac’ Frost is handsome, sexy and hiding his own secret from Atria. He has been attracted to her, but kept his distance for eight years. But when she is in danger, all his instincts scream for him to claim her and protect her from impending trouble. I enjoyed watching Zac charm Atria, and show her he is more than capable of withstanding her fire. His sarcasm and wit is a good counterpoint to her attitude, and they soon discover they are perfect for each other.

This is a romance with bite, and a couple of serious twists along the way. The secondary characters are wonderful, and I hope to see more of Luc and the band in the future. I enjoyed the way Ms Slayer handled the overbearing Niccolo, and the twist with the drug-addled stalker was something I didn’t see coming.

I hope this is the beginning of a long and enjoyable ride with Megan Slayer’s stories. This may be her first book, but I believe she has a great future ahead of her.

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Captured by B.J. McCall

November 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Captured by B.J. McCall
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Science Fiction/Fantasy
Length: Short Story (68 Pages)
Other: M/F
Rating: 4 Cherries
Reviewed by Foxglove

The tyrant Targus has a new pet dragon.

Captured and tossed in an aviary, Zira discovers she is Targus’s new pet. The key to her escape lies with her keeper, a hunky human with a gentle touch who has no idea she can shift.

To please his master, Dragon Keeper Laros must make the new dragon fly. Zira shifts to her human form to seduce her keeper, convincing Laros his midnight visitor is his reward.

When the nights are Dragonfire hot, keeper and dragon may bond in a way neither of them expects.

B.J. McCall has a marvelous way with shifter stories, and this one is an excellent addition to her repertoire.

Following the tinkle of golden bells, Zira flies over the forest between the Fire Mountains and the city state of Brixa, ever watchful for a sight of the elusive bells. When she is ambushed and captured, she is made the newest pet of Targus, the tyrant who has been cruelly enslaving the people he has conquered. What Targus doesn’t know is that many of the dragons, including Zira, are shape shifters, and Zira plans to use this secret to aid in her escape.

When Targus assigns one of the thralls, or slaves, to care for Zira, she decides to use him to aid in her escape, and possibly even help when she brings the dragons back to exact retribution. It doesn’t hurt that her keeper, Laros is attractive, and Zira shifts at night to pretend she is his reward for making the dragon fly. Can Zira the woman convince Laros to sneak her out of the electronic cage before she reveals her secret? Can these two get away and get back to the Fire Mountains and safety? Can Laros give Zira the one thing she has never had before: can he bring her Dragonfire?

I like the world Ms. McCall has created, with the blend archaic and modern overlapping. The characters are well crafted, and most are very likable. This is listed as book one, so I am looking forward to more in this unique and different world of dragons and the people surrounding them.

Zira is a dragon of the Aurumon clan, gifted with the ability to sense gold, and it is this ability that leads to her capture. She is also smart, and able to come up with a plan to save herself, and free the people of Brixa who have been enslaved by the tyrant for his own greedy desires. I like Zira, with her determination and courage, and her desire to keep Laros once she frees them both.

Laros is a thrall, someone who has spent his whole life under the yoke of servitude to Targus. He is brave, and smart, and surprised when the dragon he is charged with caring for speaks to him. But he keeps this knowledge to himself, hoping that it will keep him from being punished by the tyrant. He is ready to be free and when Zira, in her human guise as Jaida, offers a chance at another life, he is ready to do whatever it takes to achieve that freedom.

This is one very hot and enchanting story, with danger and action, and the slow seduction of the senses that Ms. McCall does so very well. This kept me on the edge of my seat, waiting to see how these two would manage to escape to the mountains, and what would happen once they did. There were very few secondary characters, other than Targus and a few passing folks who were minor in this story. The focus here was strictly on Zira and Laros and their building relationship.

I recommend this story for those who still believe in fantasy, and in happy ever after in spite of the odds.

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