Beyond the Call of Duty by Wendy Stone

Beyond the Call of Duty by Wendy Stone
Publisher: Eternal Press
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short Story (124 pages)
Other: M/F, BDSM, Violence, Anal play
Rating: 4.5 Cherries
Reviewed by Carnation

Who would have thought that the witness protection program could spark a romance? The witness protection program has strict rules about romance, especially a romance between the top agent and one of her witnesses, but that didn’t seem to stop Alexandra Hunter. She’d never met a man like Gabriel Elliott. Can they find a way to bend those rules? Can Lexi give in to the feelings that Gabe inspires so easily? Will they be able to have their own happily ever after?could spark a romance?

Gabe, small-time mob style criminal with honor and ideals of his own and beautiful Lexi, a highly trained, lethal US Marshall can’t keep their eyes and hands off of each other. They find themselves roommates when both end up in the witness protection program. Gabe has narrowly survived an attack after witnessing a fatal hit on a close friend and his family. Alexandria, appointed to hide and protect him, has been identified by the perpetrators and an attempt has been made on her life, sending her into hiding as well.

Gabe is an outlaw in a mob posse. He is a tough, independent man with confidence and authority who is strong enough to take what he will. His recent occupation was running drugs for the mob. This man does what he wants, when he wants, and in dominant fashion expertly masters his women in the bedroom. Gabe has never been in love before and finds, to his confusion, that he’s fallen quickly and deeply for Lexi, who is unlike any woman he’s ever known.

Lexi is a gorgeous woman who also happens to be a dangerously competent officer of the law. She is used to getting her way and being in control in both her personal and official endeavors. She does not mix business with pleasure. But when she meets handsome, sexy Gabe, that idea goes out the window. She finds his powerful nature completely irresistible. Here is a quote that illustrates her feelings about her ‘charge’, and gives an eloquent example of the fluency of this author’s descriptions: “He was dangerous. He was like a sleek predator, a shark in the turbulent waters of her life. He could take her under with one bite and leave her bleeding and alone.” Despite this, Lexi finds another side to Gabe and he proceeds to seduce her body and soul.

The first chapter of this book was very graphic and sexually violent, a bit too rough for me,honestly. However, I’m glad I read through the coarse details of the sex and attitudes of the gang, and let the author set the stage. She reveals a different and evolving persona for the ‘hero’ as the tale unfolds. The harsh nature of her writing takes a gentler turn after the story’s background is set. But the further I read into the story, the more engrossed and emotionally involved I got. It is a thrilling page turner filled with action and scorching romance.

The author has an effective and direct writing style that makes her words come to life. I recommend Beyond the Call of Duty It’s a very absorbing tale of unusual sexual intensity with an excellent, detailed and sophisticated plot, rife with believable, interesting people.

Let me share a couple quotes from the story that illustrate the magnetic quality of the writing as well as the complexity of the characters: “’I like you, Alexandra Hunter. I like you, and I like kissing you. I’m not going to apologize for that, or try to stop feeling this way. You make me feel like this is some kind of adventure, and I’m not giving it up.’ He lifted her chin and dropped his head, finding her lips with his.” And, “His thick fingers were as delicate as a master pianist sitting down to play a complicated piece. ”

In the Arms of Danger by Jaydyn Chelcee

In the Arms of Danger by Jaydyn Chelcee
Publisher: Eternal Press
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (309 pages)
Other: M/F
Rating: 4.5 Cherries
Reviewed By Myrtle

Every woman needs a little danger in her life, but what’s perilous about a wildlife shoot in the beautiful Montana wilderness? Armed with only a camera, Lacey Weston treks through the rough terrain and captures more on film than she bargains for-the murder of another young woman.

Fearing for her life, Lacey flees the scene and stumbles straight into the path of a man who strongly resembles the murderer. Sheriff Danger Blackstone, with his piercing gray eyes and rugged physique, could be the man in her undeveloped pictures.

With nowhere else to run and hide, Lacey must decide if she dares to trust her life to the only person who can protect her, one whose apparent grudge against Anglo females makes him less than approachable-the very man she suspects of murder.

This suspenseful romance-packed with action, hard-bodied cowboys and long, hot nights-gives a whole new meaning to the Wild West.

In the Arms of Danger is the first book of the Montana Men Series by Jaydyn Chelcee. Take plenty of laughter, sex, and murder; add in humorous quotes at the beginning of each chapter, toss in a sprinkle of Indian trivia and you have a wonderful read.

The story starts in a small modern-day Montana town, surrounded by miles of beautiful wilderness. Danger Blackstone is the tall, dark, and drop dead gorgeous town sheriff. Lacey Weston is a freelance journalist on the run from a killer.

When Sheriff Blackstone finds Lacey sneaking around in the dark, he is positive she is up to no good and crazy to boot. The longer they are together the hotter things get and not just their attraction to each other. Danger finds he has a full-time job saving Lacey from herself and trying to protect her from a would-be killer.

Author Jaydyn Chelcee has a sharp mind and wicked sense of humor, which is displayed through the entire book. Not only does she keep you laughing; she makes the reader wonder if Danger and Lacey will survive floodwaters, snakes, mountain lions and a mystery killer.

The plot was new and refreshing, very easy to follow, with many twists and turns, leaving you to wonder how it will end. In the Arms of Danger is one of those books that will keep you spellbound until the end. Personally, I loved the book from start to finish, and would highly recommend it to any one. Definitely one I would read over again.

The Scandalous Tale of Agnes Biggenbotten by Christopher Newman

The Scandalous Tale of Agnes Biggenbotten by Christopher Newman
Publisher: Eternal Press
Length: Short Story (101 pgs)
Genre: Historical
Other: M/F
Rating: 3.5 cherries
Reviewed by Bittersweet

A Journey of Innocence, Love, Tragedy and Justice—and an ample derriere.

Toiling away at Horseweed’s Tavern is Agnes Biggenbotten, whose name is more like a description. The poor thing, innocent as the day is long, is totally unaware of the stir she causes while she goes about her chores. The men-folk crowd into the pub every night to be mesmerized by her famous and—well—plump attribute. But alas, one man cannot simply watch the show and soon attempts to seduce the naïve Agnes. His death is discovered by a minister already convinced of her guilt, due to her absence in his church, and soon our heroine is accused of witchcraft, a crime she did not commit.

If you’re looking for wild, ardent, passionate sex, then The Scandalous Tale of Agnes Biggenbotten is not the book for you. If, however, you are in the mood to read something hilarious, sweet, and sensual, with moments of sadness, tenderness, tragedy, anger, danger… then you must definitely read The Scandalous Tale of Agnes Biggenbotten.

Original from beginning to end, the tale is told in a sort of troubadour style that reminded me of the old English “Canterbury Tales”. Structured as if the narrator was speaking to the reader, various lessons are taught.

The first one is on the importance of education. People with the proper instruments can become much more than what initially meets the eye.

Another lesson that the narrator seems to highlight is that though the characters go throughout many difficulties in life, true love can be found, maybe even more than once.

The main character, Agnes is definitely not a perfect protagonist. She’s so naïve at first that it’s annoyingly not credible. However, this innocence along with the narrator’s outrageous commentaries is a primordial part of what makes the story so special.

My laughter did not die down and my affection for Agnes grew as she acquired her education. An education versed not only in lovemaking, but also in literature, music, court etiquette, and of course, true love.

The Scandalous Tale of Agnes Biggenbotten is a delightful and entertaining read for any moment.

Cassie’s Awakening by Brigit Aine

Cassie’s Awakening by Brigit Aine
Publisher: Eternal Press
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Short Story (38 pgs)
Other: M/F, Voyeurism
Rating: 3.5 cherries
Reviewed by Tiger Lily

He obviously doesn’t want her…so how can she be his mate?

Cassie’s talent is dampening the emotions of others. This has been a very useful way of keeping peace around her, but has proven harmful in learning about passion and love. After all, none of the men she has ever dated have been able to profess or show the true depth of their feelings.

What if you could feel the emotions of your significant other? What if you knew what was going on with them the same time they did? And what if you had no idea you had these talents? Then you’d feel like Cassie in Cassie’s Awakening.

The general idea behind this story is refreshing because it’s novel. Yes, there are stories where the mates can read each other’s minds, but in this story, it’s written in a touching way that made me want to continue reading. There are also enough little twists and turns that snagged my attention and have me waiting for the next installment of this story.

I liked Cassie. She’s happy-go-lucky and wants nothing more than to stay that way. She’s attracted to Jared, no doubt, but the fact that she’s shy around him, yet won’t take his guff. I love a strong heroine and she’s the epitome of strong. Although her acceptance happened a tad quickly, I still enjoyed reading about her.

Jared is an interesting hero—if not a bit gruff. I understand he’s co-alpha of the wolf pack and I get that he’s got to be tough, but there were times when he came across almost mean. He’s handsome, and his transition into wolf is beautiful, but I almost wanted to see him soften just a bit when it wasn’t in the bedroom. That said, the sex was hot and singed my screen.

If you want a sexy story that lends well to a follow-up story, then you need to read Cassie’s Awakening. I give it 3.5 cherries.

Deadly Fetishes by Kayden McLeod

Deadly Fetishes by Kayden McLeod
Publisher: Eternal Press
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (239 pgs)
Other: BDSM, M/F
Rating: 4.5 Cherries
Reviewed by Fern

A woman finds a soul mate she could never live without, even if it kills her.

Kelly needs to get herself a fetish. A newly-converted vampire, she’s quiet, conservative, and prone to panic attacks. When her friend drags her to a vampire fetish club, she meets Marcus, a walking manual on sexual pleasure. Marcus is captivating and dangerous and knows exactly what he wants. With a single-minded purpose, he scoops Kelly up from her abnormal, disillusioned life and shows her the pleasures of immortality. His obsession with her body knows no limits, and her desire only burns hotter every time he touches her. She drives him insane with the blinding need to hear her scream his name with absolute abandon. Marcus shows her the true world of vampires, which is more magical than Kelly had ever dreamed.

Deadly Fetishes is a vampire lover’s dream, full of heat, intensity, and so much chemistry you’ll sizzle and burn. Author Kayden McLeod has written something fans of the paranormal erotic genre will love, creating vampires who are both unique and captivating.

When the story begins we are introduced to Sara and the voice of the story, Kelly, who believe they are the only ones of their kind. Following an unexpected encounter at a fetish club, Kelly engages the interest of a mysterious stranger who sweeps her off her feet and reveals just the opposite. Not only are they not the only vampires in existence, but Marcus is one of them, and after one taste of Kelly, he’s not willing to let her slip away. Much heat and passion ensue, along with revelations that will change the lives of everyone involved. Can Marcus keep Kelly and Sara safe? Will they have their happy – and lusty – ever after?

The first person narrative is wonderfully written, and due to Ms. McLeod’s distinct voice, very appealing and entertaining. Aside from a few circumstances in which the dialogue seemed a stifle awkward, the story is enthralling and impossible to turn away from. I loved this new version of vampires, as well as the laws that are in place to govern them. The tension is perfect, and provides you with just enough uncertainty to keep you on your toes. The new ideas and concepts are refreshing, while the sexual intensity builds into an inferno of dominance, submission, and desire.

If you’re in the market for a vampire story that will make your pulse pound and your heart race, Deadly Fetishes is certainly one you will sink your teeth into.

Jezebel’s Article by Kayden McLeod

Jezebel’s Article by Kayden McLeod
Publisher: Eternal Press
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Short Story (51 pgs)
Other: BDSM, M/F/M, Ménage
Rating: 4 Cherries
Reviewed by Fern

Two sexy vampires want to fulfill Jezebel’s every desire. Good thing they don’t mind sharing.

Jezebel has a new job writing a sex column for a small specialty interest paper in Vancouver, British Columbia, and attends a very specialized party…a sex party, in fact, where she meets two of the most tempting men she could’ve ever imagined. And to make it that much more tempting, they are vampires, one curiosity Jezebel can’t shed. Adrian and Doros watch her with growing desire, craving to take a knowing human, from who they didn’t have to cut their true selves off from. One they could play with to their heart’s content. The moment they meet Jezebel, it’s already over. There’s no contest, and now only one question remains: Will she want them, as much as they want her?

An article on sex parties becomes so much more in Jezebel’s Article, a wickedly naughty novella that ignites the pages and heats the blood.

When Jezebel visits a sex party, she has no idea what’s in store for her. For inside await not just men and women, but vampires. She, too, has a trace of the blood in her veins, but has not been allowed to mingle with those her vampiric grandmother views as less than appealing. Now, two sexy vampires with a penchant for sharing have claimed her as their prize. The night has only just begun, and as Jezebel lowers her inhibitions, she’s taken on a wild and unforgettable ride. But will it be for the duration of one night, or will these lovers discover something that is meant to last an eternity?

Jezebel’s Article is a funky and fresh erotica that hits all the right spots. Kayden McLeod has managed to write something in the vampire genre that stands apart from the rest, using a first person narrative that engages the interest and pulls the reader into Jezebel’s world. Through her, you’ll fall head over lust for Adrian and Doros. When the three come together, the pages positively sizzle.

If you’re looking for something to read that is hot enough to make you break a sweat, but short enough that it doesn’t take up too much time, Jezebel’s Article is just the ticket.

Homecoming by Regina Paul

Homecoming by Regina Paul
Publisher: Eternal Press
Genre: Action/Adventure, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Short (24 pages)
Other: BDSM, M/M
Rating: 4 cherries
Review by: Tiger Lily

Crew left his older lover Eagle to go into space, realizing his lifelong dream. He was not ready to settle down when Eagle wanted to make their bond formal. Eagle, a professor, has no use for space faring. Crew knows Eagle was deeply hurt and angered by what he believed was Crew’s desertion.

Now Crew is back. He’s not sure what kind of homecoming he will find. Will the man who still holds the keys to his heart and desire make him welcome or only tease and then reject him in revenge?

Sometimes the ones you think are your most opposite are the ones you need the most, especially when you find that running from your troubles only breeds more trouble. Intrigued? Then you need to read Homecoming by Regina Paul.

Ms. Paul writes an interesting novella about two souls who want to be together, but time and distance have pushed them apart. I liked the idea that these two men want different things, yet the differences are what really bring them together.

Crew wanted to see the world. He wanted to experience life before he got too old. What young person or rather, what person in general has ever felt the need to see the world? The reader can identify with his need to get out of what he sees as his norm in order to experience something grand. At the same time, the reader can also identify with Eagle’s need for stability. He wants to be committed to the man he loves.

The loves scenes in this novella are sweeping. The passion almost overwhelms you. It steals your breath, but you know it’s real. I liked how Crew was afraid to come home. When we do things we think are unaccepted, we’re afraid of the repercussion. I liked his humility and his need to make things right.

If you want a sweet, yet passionate romance, then you should read Homecoming. I give this short story 4 cherries.

The Sarran Plague by A.C. Katt

The Sarran Plague by A.C. Katt
Publisher: Eternal Press
Genre: Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Full Length (180 pgs)
Other: M/F/M, M/M, F/M/M, Anal Sex, Menage
Rating: 3 Cherries
Review by Xeranthemum

“Even now in your flush of victory, we have sown the seeds of your defeat.” – Hanitz, Commander Zyptz Warrior Birds –Message to Brightstar

The Sarran Warriors came home from victory to genocide. The enemy had unleashed a virus fatal to all fertile fems on the Home Planet. The Sarrans mated in Triad, without fems, civilization ended. For two cycles they searched the Galaxy for a genetically compatible vessel. They found Earth. The WarriorPairs left Sarran with heavy hearts. They were told the Earthen fems were an inferior species, unable to establish the psychic bond that was essential to the triad bond.

Yet from as far out as the asteroid belt, fem voices called to the mates. They were in pain, they were dying, they had met the enemy. Admirals Jonal and Tonas were determined to obtain their fem at almost any cost; because they had already mated in her mind.

The Sarran Plague tells an interesting tale of what happens when aliens do find Earth and the surprising fact that not only aren’t we alone, we have mates amongst the stars.

The story follows various points of view as there are many characters that populate the ship that arrives to save the women of Earth.

The main romance involves Tonas and Jonal and their search for their Triad Bondmate. Inasmuch as the book focuses on a relationship with two men and a woman, this story is more about the love and romance between the two main men who captain the ship. There is even a threat to their happiness which has followed them for years and comes to a head during the suspenseful part of the book. The female, Anya, is developed only to the point where her character serves the purpose of being the one they seek. The time spent away from Anya belied the importance of her role to them and I felt that was an injustice to her character’s worth.

The secondary main character is Mark, a doctor whom Anya worked with. His role experiences a fast transition from Earthbound MD, to a key player in the drama that unfolds in space. I was a bit disconcerted as to how quickly and completely he accepted, understood and seemed to master his new role. After saying that, I still felt that his character was much more vibrant and interesting than Anya’s. And I also preferred his storyline because it contained more concrete and well written drama which kept my interest.

I enjoyed the science fiction aspect of this story but I could have done with less of the officious declarations made every time someone wanted to enter a room or change access protocol to the computer. Perhaps it was included to give an authentic feel for the military aspect and the alien environment with which Anya and the reader find themselves. That’s all right, but there is such a thing as overkill.

The imagination that went into the attacking aliens and the final weapon used to incapacitate them as well as their identification was truly genius. I enjoyed the cats and loved their role. I also felt the ending was too short and cryptic. I actually wanted more and its quick wrap up startled me. Perhaps that was the intent of the author because certainly it added more questions which need answers. If Ms. Katt writes another book about the Sarrans, specifically about TeZarron, then I’ll be in line waiting because I sensed an introduction to a tortured hero who needs saving.

The Sarran Plague is a book which will appeal to readers who enjoy stories about a love between two men that survive the odds even when their happiness is under attack from rivals, enemies and betrayals from those they should have been able to trust. Good conflict, exciting resolution and a satisfactory HEA.

Goth by Karen Lewis

Goth by Karen Lewis
Publisher: Eternal Press
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense
Length: Short (131 pgs)
Other: M/F
Rating: 3.5 Cherries
Review by Stephanotis

An eerie tale of greed, lust and murder with supernatural undertones.

A shop assistant’s disappearance from the strip mall triggers a major investigation-which fails to solve the case. When the new shop assistant begins to unravel the mystery, she puts her own life at risk. A grim sense of foreboding permeates a story as threatening as its setting – a dark mile of derelict buildings where vagrants live.

Hattie Gwyn AKA Goth Girl has gone missing. She was working at a jewelry/gift type store, left work one evening and hasn’t been seen since. The store isn’t in the best of neighborhoods, in fact, the whole place is sort of creepy, but Vanessa Ward finds herself as Hattie’s replacement. When she sees who she believes is Hattie…or perhaps Hattie’s ghost, Vanessa sets out to figure out what happened to her.

If you like to spend a few hours reading a creepy mystery, Goth is your book. It moves at a good pace and Lewis does a first rate job of laying and adding atmospheric effects like rain, fog and a run-down part of town full of color characters to send a chill down your spine. The red herrings are also carefully disguised. Figuring out the mystery wasn’t simple and made for a good journey.

Goth isn’t for hard core romantic suspense readers, but fans of mysteries should definitely check it out.

A Special Present by Bill Fullerton

A Special Present by Bill Fullerton
Publisher: Eternal Press
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday
Length: Short
Other: M/F
Rating: 5 Cherries
Review by Violet

Becky may never see Matt again after he goes off to war. Once she’s given herself to him, what else can she give?

Becky Miller has been friends with Matt Hampton for as long as she can remember. They dated, but there was never a promise of tomorrow. When Matt goes off to war, Becky marries Stuart, who ends up being nothing what she dreamed he would be. With a child in tow, Becky heads home to her parents and finds that Matt is home from war. Can they remain just friends, or will there be love on a deeper level this time?

The Characters in A Special Present were very real and believable. I enjoyed watching Becky and Matt connect again and their feelings for each other deepen. I felt so hurt for Becky and laughed and cheered during scenes with Matt. The bond that Becky and Matt had was once in a lifetime kind of bond. The plot really had me thinking one way and I was amazed that things weren’t as they seemed. I really enjoyed and connected to the characters involved.

Bill Fullerton wrote an brilliant short story when he wrote A Special Present. It had all the elements that I look for in a book and I really want to read more of his work. If you are looking for a short, fun and engaging book, then look no further than A Special Present. I highly recommend it to anyone.