What do you think?
Rate this book
Animal Magnetism
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! Whether it's a dog, cat, or something more exotic, the animals in this collection of romantic m/m stories serve as the catalyst for bringing lovers together. No matter how the encounter begins, by the end of each story, with a little help from their finned, furred, or feathered friends, our heroes have discovered some animal magnetism of their own.
Stories included
A Few Too Many by Heidi Champa
Having a Ball by Cari Z.
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess Make a Home by R. Cooper
Jonno by Emily Gould
On an Eagle's Wings by A.J. Marcus
Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road? by Skylar Jaye
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle
Show and Tell by Liz Makar
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley
Stories included
A Few Too Many by Heidi Champa
Having a Ball by Cari Z.
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess Make a Home by R. Cooper
Jonno by Emily Gould
On an Eagle's Wings by A.J. Marcus
Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road? by Skylar Jaye
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle
Show and Tell by Liz Makar
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2012
7 people are currently reading
177 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 21, 2012
4.5 stars
A great anthology. One of the strengths is the variety of the animals and settings. All stories are at least good; there is no bad one here. They're mostly sweet and romantic. Some are downright funny. Still, several stories could use more pages as they suffer from the short-story format and force them to have HFN (with strong hint of HEA).
---------------
A few too many. Heidy Champa. Ted's dog, Jake, was a 4-time champion of Highland Games, a Scottish gathering where men wore kilts. When the dog drank too much alcohol from the celebration, Ted found a different vet working at the usual animal clinic. It's nice, although I wish they waited a bit before getting physical. 4 stars
Having a ball. Cari Z. Jimmy had to take care of his niece's snake while the family went out of town. When the snake ate too many mice, he rushed to get help from the herperologist neighbor. I liked the description of the snake and sub-plot about the brother. 4.5 stars
Along come spiders. Matthew Vandrew. During an earthquake, a policeman and a nurse had to save a man who owned venomous spiders. It's funny to see the big guy was afraid of spider. 4.5 stars
Cuddling up. Chris Kat. A story of two zoo workers. Noah liked to cuddle with the dangerous snow leopard, while Paul wanted to cuddle with Noah. Paul's concern about Noah's safety is nice to read. 4.5 stars
New tides. Avery Vanderlyle. Steve and Jan were marine biologists. Steve broke up with his artist boyfriend a while ago, when he moved from the West Coast to the East Coast for job. So far, he still couldn't move on. Jan, the octopus expert, might help him with the problem. 4 stars
Care and rehabilitation. Kim Fielding. Ira was a professor of history. When Lady Gaga, his dog, brought him a young dove, Ira brought the bird to a bird guy, who turned out to be Caleb, his former student. It packs a lot in such a short space. 4.5 stars
Butterbean and the pretty princess. R. Cooper.My favorite. Two roommates couldn't bring up their mutual attractions until one of them brought home two stray puppies. Wish this too be longer. Their interactions are intensely romantic. Only between the two, as if I was watching a play on stage. 5 stars
Jonno. Emily Gould. Also my favorite story. His boyfriend kept nagging Ethan so he got a job in the park as a janitor. Unfortunately, Jonno, the Indian squirrel, seemed to hate Ethan and bit him on his first day at job. Good thing, Mitchell the nurse was there. It's sweet, funny and had more background story of the characters. 5 stars.
On an eagle's wings. AJ Marcus. Gavin was a falconer. One day he found Heath, the park ranger, injured from the poachers. Gavin brought Heath to hospital and took care of him later. It's good, although a change of pace at the end distracted me a bit. 4 stars
Why did the chicken cross the road? Skylar Jaye. The story of Gabe, a graphic designer who owned several chicken pets, and his new neighbor, Aaron. As the title tells us, Gabe's chicken liked to cross the road, to Aaron's yard. A nice story, but I felt it ended too fast. 3.5 stars.
Tears for a broken sun. Minerva Wisting.A Japanese flower shop owner fell for his foreign costumer. When earthquake happened, his dog Wan showed the foreigner where he was. A good story, but somehow I didn't really get the chemistry between the two. 3.5 stars
Stripped bare. Lily Valden. Another favorite of mine. Nick was an installation artist. In an exhibition's Q&A session, one costumer managed to make him feel naked by asking deep, probing questions. A combination of poetry, romance, and witty dialogue make this one a winner for me. 5 stars
Wild horses. Kate Pavelle.Kai was a young man who decided to pickpocket since he was very hungry and lived on the street. His very first victim, Attila, a rich but stern horse owner, had $60 and an iPhone in his pocket. When Attila sent a text message asking the theft to return his phone, Kai had to make important decision. This is a beautiful story which I wish doesn't end abruptly. 4 stars
Show and tell. Liz Makar."Damian Coletti was a murderer." That's the first sentence of this funny story. Damian was a 1st grade teacher who kept a class pet. The problem? Every single pet he brought to the class in the past 3 years died shortly after he got them. The old pet shop owner credited him for his early retirement. But how about the new pet shop owner? A very cute story, although I really doubt that 5 years old could be so manipulative. My most favorite story of the book. 5 stars
The conch republic. GS Wisley.After working in a cruise ship for many years, Jack went home to Key West, Florida--a place where he grew up. He left his ex who also worked for the cruise, and his dream of living somewhere else. Would Randy, who owned a conch museum, and had eyes on Jack for years, be able to keep him in Key West? An interesting story, but the ending is a bit rushed. 4 stars
A great anthology. One of the strengths is the variety of the animals and settings. All stories are at least good; there is no bad one here. They're mostly sweet and romantic. Some are downright funny. Still, several stories could use more pages as they suffer from the short-story format and force them to have HFN (with strong hint of HEA).
---------------
A few too many. Heidy Champa. Ted's dog, Jake, was a 4-time champion of Highland Games, a Scottish gathering where men wore kilts. When the dog drank too much alcohol from the celebration, Ted found a different vet working at the usual animal clinic. It's nice, although I wish they waited a bit before getting physical. 4 stars
Having a ball. Cari Z. Jimmy had to take care of his niece's snake while the family went out of town. When the snake ate too many mice, he rushed to get help from the herperologist neighbor. I liked the description of the snake and sub-plot about the brother. 4.5 stars
Along come spiders. Matthew Vandrew. During an earthquake, a policeman and a nurse had to save a man who owned venomous spiders. It's funny to see the big guy was afraid of spider. 4.5 stars
Cuddling up. Chris Kat. A story of two zoo workers. Noah liked to cuddle with the dangerous snow leopard, while Paul wanted to cuddle with Noah. Paul's concern about Noah's safety is nice to read. 4.5 stars
New tides. Avery Vanderlyle. Steve and Jan were marine biologists. Steve broke up with his artist boyfriend a while ago, when he moved from the West Coast to the East Coast for job. So far, he still couldn't move on. Jan, the octopus expert, might help him with the problem. 4 stars
Care and rehabilitation. Kim Fielding. Ira was a professor of history. When Lady Gaga, his dog, brought him a young dove, Ira brought the bird to a bird guy, who turned out to be Caleb, his former student. It packs a lot in such a short space. 4.5 stars
Butterbean and the pretty princess. R. Cooper.My favorite. Two roommates couldn't bring up their mutual attractions until one of them brought home two stray puppies. Wish this too be longer. Their interactions are intensely romantic. Only between the two, as if I was watching a play on stage. 5 stars
Jonno. Emily Gould. Also my favorite story. His boyfriend kept nagging Ethan so he got a job in the park as a janitor. Unfortunately, Jonno, the Indian squirrel, seemed to hate Ethan and bit him on his first day at job. Good thing, Mitchell the nurse was there. It's sweet, funny and had more background story of the characters. 5 stars.
On an eagle's wings. AJ Marcus. Gavin was a falconer. One day he found Heath, the park ranger, injured from the poachers. Gavin brought Heath to hospital and took care of him later. It's good, although a change of pace at the end distracted me a bit. 4 stars
Why did the chicken cross the road? Skylar Jaye. The story of Gabe, a graphic designer who owned several chicken pets, and his new neighbor, Aaron. As the title tells us, Gabe's chicken liked to cross the road, to Aaron's yard. A nice story, but I felt it ended too fast. 3.5 stars.
Tears for a broken sun. Minerva Wisting.A Japanese flower shop owner fell for his foreign costumer. When earthquake happened, his dog Wan showed the foreigner where he was. A good story, but somehow I didn't really get the chemistry between the two. 3.5 stars
Stripped bare. Lily Valden. Another favorite of mine. Nick was an installation artist. In an exhibition's Q&A session, one costumer managed to make him feel naked by asking deep, probing questions. A combination of poetry, romance, and witty dialogue make this one a winner for me. 5 stars
Wild horses. Kate Pavelle.Kai was a young man who decided to pickpocket since he was very hungry and lived on the street. His very first victim, Attila, a rich but stern horse owner, had $60 and an iPhone in his pocket. When Attila sent a text message asking the theft to return his phone, Kai had to make important decision. This is a beautiful story which I wish doesn't end abruptly. 4 stars
Show and tell. Liz Makar."Damian Coletti was a murderer." That's the first sentence of this funny story. Damian was a 1st grade teacher who kept a class pet. The problem? Every single pet he brought to the class in the past 3 years died shortly after he got them. The old pet shop owner credited him for his early retirement. But how about the new pet shop owner? A very cute story, although I really doubt that 5 years old could be so manipulative. My most favorite story of the book. 5 stars
The conch republic. GS Wisley.After working in a cruise ship for many years, Jack went home to Key West, Florida--a place where he grew up. He left his ex who also worked for the cruise, and his dream of living somewhere else. Would Randy, who owned a conch museum, and had eyes on Jack for years, be able to keep him in Key West? An interesting story, but the ending is a bit rushed. 4 stars
September 6, 2012
A nice Anthology with pets and animals of all kinds! Overall a very enjoyable read.
May contain some mild spoilers!
A Few To Many by Heidi Champa 3.5*
Cute story about a champion Sheepdog , who celebrated his win with a few too many cups leftover from the celebration and Ted, his human, wearing a Kilt..yum..takes him to the vet.
The Vet and Ted hit it off! It was cute, but really short and I would have liked to have seen the first date.
Having A Ball by Cari Z 4*
This was a sweet one, and only suffered from -too short-syndrome-! Poor Jimmy the youngest of six children, and not approciated enough for what he is dong for Michael, I was glad Michael thanked him and apologized, but like Jimmy, I sort of wish it had come at a different time!
I loved the MC's and they were cute, I wanted more of them!
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew 4*
I would love a longer one about these two, Hedge seems like a very interesting charachter.
It's fun, and even if I agree with Alec about the spiders..it also had a nice ending!
Cuddling Up by Chris T Cat 2.5*
it hit a few of my pet peeves, which might not bother others.
Insulting bratty MC, overlord bossy and annoying other MC! One acted stupid and dangerously and the other really is a caveman. I read another book by this author and it felt similar so it just might be her style, but it does nothing for me.
Didn't like them, and saw no attraction between them.
New Tides Avery Vanderlyle 4*
I would have probably loved this one of there had been a few more pages, as it was it ended on a hopeful note, but I'm greedy and wanted a bit more, just to be sure!
The MC's were cute, but I was a fan of Cleopatra and Kylie! :)
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding 4*
*sniff* what a touching story, Ira a professor runs into a former student and sees that maybe there is a second chance at happiness.
I really really wanted a bit more, this was a HFN, with a positive ending, but..I really wanted a HEA for Ira! I wanted to SEE it! *sniff*
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess make a Home by R.Cooper 4*
Ok, after reading this one, the name makes sense...:)
Cute, I love the kittens and Eli and Riley, but again...just a few more pages....maybe the dinner with Mom, that had to be fun! LOL
Jonno by Emily Gould 3.5*
I'm not usually a fan of someone being in a relationship then jumping to the next one, but I liked that the MC in this one made a real effort to start the new one right. It helped that his ex was pretty unlikeable and that Mitchell was likeable.
I would have liked an epilogue for this one, maybe a year down the road, but as more often than not in this anthology I am left wanting just a bit more secure HEA, but that's just me!
And personally , I loved Jonno, what's not to love about a dangerous attacking gay squirrel! :)
On an Eagle's Wing by AJ Marcus 3*
I kept getting distracted by the words 'the falconer' and 'the ranger' instead of their names, and I guess hunting and poachers and mountain men aren't my cup of tea. The story is nice , and I did enjoy learning a bit about eagles and falconers!
Why did the Chicken Cross the Road by Skylar Jaye 3*
Not sure about this one, I liked Gabe and his hens! That was cute! Aaron was sort of a mystery, and I'm not a fan of the way he behaved, all jealous and wanting a commitment, and I didn't see any relationship between them.
They hadn't done more than one kiss, and Aaron ran away after that, no dinner together, no talks or conversations..I wouldn't have consider them friends, he didn't even know Aaron was going away for a business trip, because Aaron didn't tell Gabe, becaus they don't talk...nope, 2* were for the chickens and one for the potential...and that's all the ending was, a potential HFN.
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting 3.5*
Very original setting, having the MC's find each other during the tsunami in Japan.
This is one story that needed another page, did Akira finally follow his dream, now that the flower store and his home were destroyed ? I really wanted to see them a bit down the road. 1/2 * was for Wan!!
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden 4.5*
So far my favorite of the bunch, despite being short it felt complete.I would have liked more info about Michael, but all in all a touching, sweet story and Oliver was a riot!
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle 3.5*
Oh, I was so sad..this could have been a 5* read, but dagnabit, it just ended...like right in the middle..sure it was hopeful..but Kai and Attila had great back stories, I'm sure of it, it was hinted at , and I really wanted to know about them. I would buy a longer story about these two in a heartbeat. I'm just a little miffed at the ending!
Show And Tell by Liz Makar 4.5*
Funny story, a first grade teacher, with some very mature students, keeps having his class pets, either die or disappear.
The new pet store owner Sam falls quickly for the sweet and funny Damien.
Very cute, and greedy me would have loved more of these tow and their snakes! *snicker*
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley 3*
I liked the MC's , they had interesting and unusual ( in romance books) occupations. One had a Conch museum and the other worked for 6 yrs on a cruise ship. After his break-up he came back to his home town of Key West.
This could have been pretty good, but it felt more like a sample or first chapter of the story.
May contain some mild spoilers!
A Few To Many by Heidi Champa 3.5*
Cute story about a champion Sheepdog , who celebrated his win with a few too many cups leftover from the celebration and Ted, his human, wearing a Kilt..yum..takes him to the vet.
The Vet and Ted hit it off! It was cute, but really short and I would have liked to have seen the first date.
Having A Ball by Cari Z 4*
This was a sweet one, and only suffered from -too short-syndrome-! Poor Jimmy the youngest of six children, and not approciated enough for what he is dong for Michael, I was glad Michael thanked him and apologized, but like Jimmy, I sort of wish it had come at a different time!
I loved the MC's and they were cute, I wanted more of them!
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew 4*
I would love a longer one about these two, Hedge seems like a very interesting charachter.
It's fun, and even if I agree with Alec about the spiders..it also had a nice ending!
Cuddling Up by Chris T Cat 2.5*
it hit a few of my pet peeves, which might not bother others.
Insulting bratty MC, overlord bossy and annoying other MC! One acted stupid and dangerously and the other really is a caveman. I read another book by this author and it felt similar so it just might be her style, but it does nothing for me.
Didn't like them, and saw no attraction between them.
New Tides Avery Vanderlyle 4*
I would have probably loved this one of there had been a few more pages, as it was it ended on a hopeful note, but I'm greedy and wanted a bit more, just to be sure!
The MC's were cute, but I was a fan of Cleopatra and Kylie! :)
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding 4*
*sniff* what a touching story, Ira a professor runs into a former student and sees that maybe there is a second chance at happiness.
I really really wanted a bit more, this was a HFN, with a positive ending, but..I really wanted a HEA for Ira! I wanted to SEE it! *sniff*
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess make a Home by R.Cooper 4*
Ok, after reading this one, the name makes sense...:)
Cute, I love the kittens and Eli and Riley, but again...just a few more pages....maybe the dinner with Mom, that had to be fun! LOL
Jonno by Emily Gould 3.5*
I'm not usually a fan of someone being in a relationship then jumping to the next one, but I liked that the MC in this one made a real effort to start the new one right. It helped that his ex was pretty unlikeable and that Mitchell was likeable.
I would have liked an epilogue for this one, maybe a year down the road, but as more often than not in this anthology I am left wanting just a bit more secure HEA, but that's just me!
And personally , I loved Jonno, what's not to love about a dangerous attacking gay squirrel! :)
On an Eagle's Wing by AJ Marcus 3*
I kept getting distracted by the words 'the falconer' and 'the ranger' instead of their names, and I guess hunting and poachers and mountain men aren't my cup of tea. The story is nice , and I did enjoy learning a bit about eagles and falconers!
Why did the Chicken Cross the Road by Skylar Jaye 3*
Not sure about this one, I liked Gabe and his hens! That was cute! Aaron was sort of a mystery, and I'm not a fan of the way he behaved, all jealous and wanting a commitment, and I didn't see any relationship between them.
They hadn't done more than one kiss, and Aaron ran away after that, no dinner together, no talks or conversations..I wouldn't have consider them friends, he didn't even know Aaron was going away for a business trip, because Aaron didn't tell Gabe, becaus they don't talk...nope, 2* were for the chickens and one for the potential...and that's all the ending was, a potential HFN.
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting 3.5*
Very original setting, having the MC's find each other during the tsunami in Japan.
This is one story that needed another page, did Akira finally follow his dream, now that the flower store and his home were destroyed ? I really wanted to see them a bit down the road. 1/2 * was for Wan!!
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden 4.5*
So far my favorite of the bunch, despite being short it felt complete.I would have liked more info about Michael, but all in all a touching, sweet story and Oliver was a riot!
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle 3.5*
Oh, I was so sad..this could have been a 5* read, but dagnabit, it just ended...like right in the middle..sure it was hopeful..but Kai and Attila had great back stories, I'm sure of it, it was hinted at , and I really wanted to know about them. I would buy a longer story about these two in a heartbeat. I'm just a little miffed at the ending!
Show And Tell by Liz Makar 4.5*
Funny story, a first grade teacher, with some very mature students, keeps having his class pets, either die or disappear.
The new pet store owner Sam falls quickly for the sweet and funny Damien.
Very cute, and greedy me would have loved more of these tow and their snakes! *snicker*
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley 3*
I liked the MC's , they had interesting and unusual ( in romance books) occupations. One had a Conch museum and the other worked for 6 yrs on a cruise ship. After his break-up he came back to his home town of Key West.
This could have been pretty good, but it felt more like a sample or first chapter of the story.
October 17, 2012
Review Posted at Joyfully Jay and Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words:
Rating: 4.75 stars
Animal Magnetism is an anthology of 15 short stories by 15 wonderful authors of m/m lovers brought together by members of the animal kingdom. It may be a snake called Ganymede or two kittens in need of a home and names. It could be a collection of spiders loose in a basement or klepto octopus with a fondness for pens, all types of animals can be a catalyst for love for the right people and under the right conditions! In these stories, the authors give you all those animals and many more on the path to romance and love.
I am such a sucker for animal stories and this anthology gave me 15 wonderful stories to curl up with and enjoy. What delighted me the most was that along with the cute dog and kitten stories, the authors came up with tales that revolved around a falconer and his golden eagle, a pick pocket and a horse with trust issues, a groundskeepers relationship with an Indian palm squirrel named Jonno, an artist with a potty mouthed parrot, and a earthquake that allows a man to find love and start over even as it destroys everything around him. Some stories are light-hearted romps through a grade school teacher’s pet experiences to the terrifying race to outrun the waves of a tsunami, the range of emotions and settings are of such tremendous variety that there is something for everyone within this strong anthology. An animal lover and retired Park Naturalist, so many of these stories contain elements that resonate with me, whether is was because of animals I have worked with, situations I have been in or just plain animals that fascinate me and I know you will love them too. This is a tremendous anthology and I know that I will return time and again to these stories to meet up with the people and animals they have introduced me to and have so totally engaged my feelings. I highly recommend you pick this book up. Here are the stories in the order they are listed in the anthology.
Stories included are:
A Few Too Many by Heidi Champa. – A sheepdog imbibes after a competition and his drunken state introduces his owner to the new vet in town.
Having a Ball by Cari Z.- Uncle Jimmy is petsitting his niece’s snake and accidentally overfeeds it too many mice. Lucky for him, there is a gorgeous herpetologist living a floor above. Great plot and wonderful characterizations had me laughing out loud. A favorite of mine.
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew – A nurse and a police officer get trapped in a basement full of loose spiders when they come to the aid of an unconscious man during an earthquake. Again, we get strong characters, great plot and oodles of spiders. Terrific.
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat – Big cat keepers have a disagreement over zoo protocol and end up hot and heavy before its over.. The author really knows zoo protocol so the characters actions are very realistic while the sex is as hot and steamy as they come
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle – I loved this story of a man adjusting to being single after a breakup as well as a new job in an aquarium where the catalyst to a new love happens to be a octopus called Cleopatra. The author got everything right, from the detail about the University of Maryland’s programs to the curious intellect of the octopus and the wonderful characters trying to find love among the marine fauna. Absolutely a delight and a story I read twice.
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding – A man gets help in dealing with the death of a partner when his St. Bernard mix brings him a baby bird in need of a helping hand from a bird rehabber who knows something about loss. Fielding gives us a sensitive portrayal of a man unable to move forward after the death of a partner and the event that finally helps him move on. I loved this beautiful story that relates the rescue of a small bird to the rescue of a man in the stasis of grief.
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess Make a Home by R. Cooper – I have recently found R Cooper and now gobble up all she writes. Here is another example as to why Cooper has become an instant favorite. Those names alone are pure gold as are the men behind them. Cooper takes a normal situation of roommates in love and elevates it with two unique characters dancing around the L word. All it takes to push them over is two small kittens. Love, love this story
Jonno by Emily Gould – Palm squirrel meets man, squirrel bites man, man meets vet. Turns out squirrel not so bad after all. So cute.
On an Eagle’s Wings by A.J. Marcus – After I read that Marcus is also a falconer everything about this story made sense, including the authenticity running from page to page in this tale of love in the wilderness that comes to two lonely men. Vivid descriptions of the wilderness carry the author’s love of the outdoors and his appreciation of nature and raptors with such mesmerizing clarity to the reader that I felt I was there. Great job.
Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road? by Skylar Jaye – Can love be found among chickens? Why yes they can in this story that manages to bring chickens up close and personal while delivering a love story for the egges, oop ages. Sorry, couldn’t resist
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting – A surprising white knuckle ride of a story inspired by Great Tohoku Earthquake. Wisting makes us feel every second of every minute of the approaching tsunami. We understand what the uncomprehending Akira does not, that his dog Wan is trying to pull him away from the shore up the mountain to safety. Our anxiety mounts as he notices the absence of birds and the wild barking of his dog after the earthquake. Not a missed step in this superlative story of love found among a natural disaster.
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden – An artist with a potty mouthed parrot has his first showing and love shows up as one of the buyers. Cute and clever.
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle – A pickpocket named Kai steals a cellphone and its owner wants the phone returned. When Kai does, he finds not only sanctuary but a path to love as well. I loved this. While not a HEA, the author shows us tantalizing glimpses into a possible future for everyone involved, including the horses. Everything about this story fascinates and intrigues the reader, from the hidden backstories of the main characters to the very nature of the special horses themselves. I wanted so much more once the story was over.
Show and Tell by Liz Makar – First grade teacher Damian Coletti kills the class room pet yet again. Can the new pet store owner save the class from another loss and find love at the same time? Why of course, he can. Funny, with terrifyingly accurate portrayals of kids and great characters looking for love romp through the pages of this story.
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley – Wild conchs lead two men back to love in this story set in Key West. I have never read a story that used live conchs as a springboard to love so this is a first. It’s so successful that it might start a whole new take on the puppy love thing. Conch love, who knew? Great story, wonderful characters and a plot so easy to relate to that I felt like I was in a Key West state of mind.
Cover: Cover Art by Shobana Appavu . The cover works best when viewed up close so you can see all the different types of animals. At a distance, it all seems very confused and busy.
Rating: 4.75 stars
Animal Magnetism is an anthology of 15 short stories by 15 wonderful authors of m/m lovers brought together by members of the animal kingdom. It may be a snake called Ganymede or two kittens in need of a home and names. It could be a collection of spiders loose in a basement or klepto octopus with a fondness for pens, all types of animals can be a catalyst for love for the right people and under the right conditions! In these stories, the authors give you all those animals and many more on the path to romance and love.
I am such a sucker for animal stories and this anthology gave me 15 wonderful stories to curl up with and enjoy. What delighted me the most was that along with the cute dog and kitten stories, the authors came up with tales that revolved around a falconer and his golden eagle, a pick pocket and a horse with trust issues, a groundskeepers relationship with an Indian palm squirrel named Jonno, an artist with a potty mouthed parrot, and a earthquake that allows a man to find love and start over even as it destroys everything around him. Some stories are light-hearted romps through a grade school teacher’s pet experiences to the terrifying race to outrun the waves of a tsunami, the range of emotions and settings are of such tremendous variety that there is something for everyone within this strong anthology. An animal lover and retired Park Naturalist, so many of these stories contain elements that resonate with me, whether is was because of animals I have worked with, situations I have been in or just plain animals that fascinate me and I know you will love them too. This is a tremendous anthology and I know that I will return time and again to these stories to meet up with the people and animals they have introduced me to and have so totally engaged my feelings. I highly recommend you pick this book up. Here are the stories in the order they are listed in the anthology.
Stories included are:
A Few Too Many by Heidi Champa. – A sheepdog imbibes after a competition and his drunken state introduces his owner to the new vet in town.
Having a Ball by Cari Z.- Uncle Jimmy is petsitting his niece’s snake and accidentally overfeeds it too many mice. Lucky for him, there is a gorgeous herpetologist living a floor above. Great plot and wonderful characterizations had me laughing out loud. A favorite of mine.
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew – A nurse and a police officer get trapped in a basement full of loose spiders when they come to the aid of an unconscious man during an earthquake. Again, we get strong characters, great plot and oodles of spiders. Terrific.
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat – Big cat keepers have a disagreement over zoo protocol and end up hot and heavy before its over.. The author really knows zoo protocol so the characters actions are very realistic while the sex is as hot and steamy as they come
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle – I loved this story of a man adjusting to being single after a breakup as well as a new job in an aquarium where the catalyst to a new love happens to be a octopus called Cleopatra. The author got everything right, from the detail about the University of Maryland’s programs to the curious intellect of the octopus and the wonderful characters trying to find love among the marine fauna. Absolutely a delight and a story I read twice.
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding – A man gets help in dealing with the death of a partner when his St. Bernard mix brings him a baby bird in need of a helping hand from a bird rehabber who knows something about loss. Fielding gives us a sensitive portrayal of a man unable to move forward after the death of a partner and the event that finally helps him move on. I loved this beautiful story that relates the rescue of a small bird to the rescue of a man in the stasis of grief.
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess Make a Home by R. Cooper – I have recently found R Cooper and now gobble up all she writes. Here is another example as to why Cooper has become an instant favorite. Those names alone are pure gold as are the men behind them. Cooper takes a normal situation of roommates in love and elevates it with two unique characters dancing around the L word. All it takes to push them over is two small kittens. Love, love this story
Jonno by Emily Gould – Palm squirrel meets man, squirrel bites man, man meets vet. Turns out squirrel not so bad after all. So cute.
On an Eagle’s Wings by A.J. Marcus – After I read that Marcus is also a falconer everything about this story made sense, including the authenticity running from page to page in this tale of love in the wilderness that comes to two lonely men. Vivid descriptions of the wilderness carry the author’s love of the outdoors and his appreciation of nature and raptors with such mesmerizing clarity to the reader that I felt I was there. Great job.
Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road? by Skylar Jaye – Can love be found among chickens? Why yes they can in this story that manages to bring chickens up close and personal while delivering a love story for the egges, oop ages. Sorry, couldn’t resist
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting – A surprising white knuckle ride of a story inspired by Great Tohoku Earthquake. Wisting makes us feel every second of every minute of the approaching tsunami. We understand what the uncomprehending Akira does not, that his dog Wan is trying to pull him away from the shore up the mountain to safety. Our anxiety mounts as he notices the absence of birds and the wild barking of his dog after the earthquake. Not a missed step in this superlative story of love found among a natural disaster.
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden – An artist with a potty mouthed parrot has his first showing and love shows up as one of the buyers. Cute and clever.
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle – A pickpocket named Kai steals a cellphone and its owner wants the phone returned. When Kai does, he finds not only sanctuary but a path to love as well. I loved this. While not a HEA, the author shows us tantalizing glimpses into a possible future for everyone involved, including the horses. Everything about this story fascinates and intrigues the reader, from the hidden backstories of the main characters to the very nature of the special horses themselves. I wanted so much more once the story was over.
Show and Tell by Liz Makar – First grade teacher Damian Coletti kills the class room pet yet again. Can the new pet store owner save the class from another loss and find love at the same time? Why of course, he can. Funny, with terrifyingly accurate portrayals of kids and great characters looking for love romp through the pages of this story.
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley – Wild conchs lead two men back to love in this story set in Key West. I have never read a story that used live conchs as a springboard to love so this is a first. It’s so successful that it might start a whole new take on the puppy love thing. Conch love, who knew? Great story, wonderful characters and a plot so easy to relate to that I felt like I was in a Key West state of mind.
Cover: Cover Art by Shobana Appavu . The cover works best when viewed up close so you can see all the different types of animals. At a distance, it all seems very confused and busy.
February 25, 2013
Awesome anthology! :)
All the stories were real good and mostly light, not overly angsty and with happy endings. I enjoyed it, but I do agree with my friend Veronica that some stories could really use a sequel :) I'd love to read them too!
All the stories were real good and mostly light, not overly angsty and with happy endings. I enjoyed it, but I do agree with my friend Veronica that some stories could really use a sequel :) I'd love to read them too!
October 28, 2020
3.5 stars
Consistently decent quality short stories. Couple of duds (A.J. Marcus & Minerva Wisting), and one stand-out subtle gem from R. Cooper. Her writing is (as ever) sophisticated, elliptical and hopeful.
Consistently decent quality short stories. Couple of duds (A.J. Marcus & Minerva Wisting), and one stand-out subtle gem from R. Cooper. Her writing is (as ever) sophisticated, elliptical and hopeful.
September 7, 2012
I really liked all these stories, and I would love to read the sequels to some of them...
August 17, 2017
Finding enough words to fill a novel seems like a daunting task, but writing a good short story is a bigger challenge. In a limited space, the writer must create characters, stir in some angst, and end with a decent resolution. Not all writers are up to the challenge.
Animal Magnetism is a collection of short stories that share a common theme. Animals are woven into each story. It has everything from a beer drinking dog, to a foulmouthed bird, a chicken with an adorable personality to venomous spiders. For the most part, the stories are enjoyable. A couple were very good, and I wished they had been longer. If you like the short story format, then you will find this one cute and entertaining.
Animal Magnetism is a collection of short stories that share a common theme. Animals are woven into each story. It has everything from a beer drinking dog, to a foulmouthed bird, a chicken with an adorable personality to venomous spiders. For the most part, the stories are enjoyable. A couple were very good, and I wished they had been longer. If you like the short story format, then you will find this one cute and entertaining.
August 20, 2012
A pretty average Anthology. I'm a sucker for any books that involves animals.
A couple of the stand outs
New tides by Avery Vanderlyle- This story is about a marine biologist who is still in the process of recovering from a breakup 3 years ago.
Care and rehabilitation by Kim Fielding- An Adorable St Bernard named Lady Gaga rescues a baby bird.
Stripped bare by Lily Valden - A fantastic story about an Artist who owns a parrot named Oliver. I wish this was a full length novel. By far my favorite from this Anthology.
A couple of the stand outs
New tides by Avery Vanderlyle- This story is about a marine biologist who is still in the process of recovering from a breakup 3 years ago.
Care and rehabilitation by Kim Fielding- An Adorable St Bernard named Lady Gaga rescues a baby bird.
Stripped bare by Lily Valden - A fantastic story about an Artist who owns a parrot named Oliver. I wish this was a full length novel. By far my favorite from this Anthology.
January 20, 2013
The nature of a short-story anthology is that some pieces will appeal, while others are a letdown. I often end up giving anthologies a three-star rating due to the wide-ranging quality of the writing. This collection contains both so-so stories and some amazing ones. Since the theme of this collection is animals, even those pieces that weren't favorites had a certain appeal. It was fun to see the variety of animals chosen and how some very much contributed to the atmosphere of the story.
September 22, 2014
3.5 stars. Anthologies can be tricky, many of them have a few gems among a largely forgetable collection, but this one is an exception. Good stuff. I'm an animal lover, so I wasn't not going to read it, but I was pleasantly surprised by the overall quality. I especially liked "Butterbean and the Pretty Princess Make a Home" because what am I, made of stone?
August 9, 2016
Ranging from sweet beginnings to happily ever afters all these couples were brought together through animals. Heat level from not even a kiss to all the way there was quite the variety in the stories; something for almost everyone.
November 17, 2016
Mostly some very enjoyable stories, I skipped the spiders (terrified of those) and couldn't get into the pet-killing-teacher story, too repetetive
September 23, 2012
Laugh out loud funny!!!
June 21, 2013
one of the best, well rounded anthologies i've ever read. i actually enjoyed every story/author.
December 28, 2013
I love how each story featured a different animal in various different meeting ways! Two thumbs way up for this anthology! <3
August 29, 2016
4.5 stars
15 short stories featuring as many different animals as you can wish… From loyal dogs to feisty squirrels, this anthology has something for everybody… Certainly worth your time.
A Few Too Many by Heidi Champa
After winning again the shepherding championship, Jake the dog goes over the limit in the celebration. When his scared owner Ted takes him to the vet, he finds much more than a cure for his ailing dog…
Oookay! So this Ted guy goes to this fair and gets drunk and forgets about his dog, who just drinks himself to stupor, so he takes him to the vet and decides to hook up with the sexy doctor while his dog is recovering… I'm not sure that's a kosher pet owner, if you know what I mean. Quite irresponsible.
3 stars
Having A Ball by Cari Z
Jimmy Sargent is a bit of a disaster, but he's got a thing for his niece, geeky eight-years-old Kelly. So he agrees to look after Kelly's phyton Ganymede while she is on holidays with her dad, Jimmy's older brother. But the very first day, Jimmy seems to do something deadly to the poor snake. Fortunately, Jimmy's fastidious brother has left the telephone of a Dr. Casey Bradshaw, a herpetologist who lives upstairs and who turns out to be a very sexy and caring neighbour…
This was good. Really good. Both characters are likeable, and their chemistry is clear for the start. I do not really like snakes, but poor Ganymede seems like a good chap. I also enjoyed the bit of drama with the relationship between the two brothers. Highly enjoyable.
4 stars
Along Come Spiders by Cari Z
Alec, a policeman coming out of a night shift, and Hedge a hyperactive nurse on his way to hospital, happen to coincide when they rush in to help an injured man after an earthquake. When an aftershock leaves them trapped in a basement with the injured man and a bunch of possibly dangerous spiders, Alec is not that happy...
Another really nice one. Both characters are likeable, Hedge is lively and impetuous, Alec is more easy-going, but his fear of spiders puts him in a bad situation here… I really loved the short epilogue about their future together. Cute and funny.
4 stars
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat
Paul Myers and Noah Collins cannot be more different, but they both love their job working with big cats… And have a crush on each other, though none of them knows about it. It takes a dangerous cuddling with Daria, one of the snow leopards at their charge, a lot of threatening and some bribing to bring them together at last…
Another very cute story about two opposites, Paul who is older, big, shy and really cautious at his job, and Noah, sweet and a bit of a nut when it comes to big cats. Paul's anger at seeing Noah risk his life with Daria soon turns into desire when he has the other man near and pliant. Very nice.
4 stars
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle
It's been three years since Steve broke his relationship with his boyfriend Eric, after trying a long distance relationship which did not work. At his new job at Salem North Aquarium in Massachusetts, Steve thinks it may be time to move on. But it takes a mischievous octopus to help him realise love is just there, waiting for him…
A tale about hope and new chances at love. It is really nice. I loved all the facts about octopuses in the story. Really clever animals!
4 stars
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding
Ira Mayer, history professor, knows nothing about injured birds, so when his Saint Bernard Lady Gaga brings him one he decides to take it to a volunteering caretaker to help it recover, only to find himself face to face with one of his old students, Caleb Phillips; Caleb had a crush on his professor, and takes his chance to act on it, but Ira is still mourning his lost lover and needs time. Fortunately, Caleb knows about injures and how to look after a wounded heart.
Another story about new chances at love. It is heart breaking but also full of hope. Likeable characters, a big slobbery dog and a promising new future ahead. Utterly enjoyable!
4 stars
Butterbean and The Pretty Princess Make a Home by R. Cooper
Riley and Eli have been living together for some time now, and although Riley enjoys his time with Eli, he does not seem to be able to get nearer the sweet big man… Not as near as he would like to. It takes two demanding stray kittens to make them realise of their mutual feelings…
Sweet. Cute. So nice characters, such a tender story. Though very different, Riley and Eli seem to have what the other is looking for. But none of them is able to act on it till the kittens Riley finds in a trash can obliges them to spend a night looking after them, and talking about their lives. So nice!
4.5 stars
Jonno by Emily Gould
Ethan does not know who dislikes him more, Indian Palm squirrel Jonno, who terrifies him at his job at a Wildlife Park, or Louis, his boyfriend, who never seems to find time to be with him any more. When Jonno bites him, he meets Mitchell, the nurse of the park, and finds a friend and a reason to change his life.
This was funny. Jonno is a very assertive squirrel which does not like the new janitor, and Ethan soon realises that approaching Jonno's food tray is not a good idea. But then, thanks to the moody squirrel bite he gets to meet Michael and … All's well that ends well! Cute
3.5 stars
On an Eagle's Wind by A.J. Marcus
Gavin McAlister is out hunting with his eagle Elphaba when he finds Wildlife Agent Heath Mallory, who's been attacked by a poacher. Gavin rescues Heath and this gives him the chance to explore his attraction which is certainly reciprocated. Now these two butch and lonely men will not be alone.
A beautiful story which unfolds slowly, showing us the attraction and blooming relationship between these tough men who, despite being loners, discover happiness and love in each others arms. Very enjoyable
3.5 stars
Why Did the Chicken Cross The Road by Skylar Jaye
Gabe is used to his quiet life far away from the city life, so a new neighbour is always something of a rush, especially when the neighbour turns out to be handsome and probably interested in hooking-up. But Aaron, Gabe's new neighbour, is throwing out mixed signals, and Gabe does not want anything too complicated so…
The animals in this story are the hens that Gabe breeds and who keep crossing to Aaron's place. They do not seem to be very appealing, and the same can be said for the main characters. The story feels somehow unfinished, the characters only superficially described, I couldn't feel the chemistry between them. From my point of view, the weakest story of the Anthology
3 stars
Tears For a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting
Akira Yamazaki's life is a disheartening routine. Every day he opens his parents flower shop and walks his golder retriever Wan along the beach. His only happy moments are his encounters with Luca, a handsome man who comes every Friday to buy flowers. But when a terrible tsunami destroys his routine, Akira loses everything… Only to find happiness at last.
I loved this one! One of my favourite stories of the anthology, Akira is an endearing character who is trapped in a life he does not like. He feels deeply attracted to Luca, but is convinced that Luca is straight… Besides, Akira has never openly recognised that he is gay. When Luca comes to rescue him after the earthquake, Akira realises their feelings are mutual. It is bittersweet and smooth, the characters a bit in the yaoi tradition. I would love to continue reading their story...
5 stars
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden
On the day of his first big exhibition, sculptor Nick Farrell is completely enthralled by Michael Davenport's intensity. His insightful questions make him feel bare and scared, but Michael also intrigues him like no one before. Fortunately, Nick's potty-mouthed parrot Oliver knows exactly what he needs…
Another great one, another favourite in the anthology. I loved Oliver, he is the best pet in all the stories, with his noisy chatter is able to break the ice between the lovers-to-be, and had me laughing at times with all his foul remarks… there is a nice mixture of poetry, feelings and humour in this story which make it very special. Another 5 stars read
5 stars
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle
Attila Keleman knows the best way to tame a wild horse is to gain his heart. Maybe that's also the best way to tame the wild young man who stole his wallet and his I-phone. If only he can convince Kai to trust him….
Another excellent one, this story left me wanting for more. It is full of possibilities. I've discovered there is a book based on these two characters, and I'm really looking forward to reading it. So promising!
5 stars
Show and Tell by Liz Makar
Damian Coletti has lost track of the number of pets he's bought and accidentally killed during his years as a Primary School teacher. His attempts to provide for suitable pets for his class are costing him a fortune… and a bit of a heartbreak. Maybe what he needs is some advise from the new pet shop owner, Sam Barker, who turns out to be very, very eager to help…
This was light and funny. Likeable characters, snake pets, and fearsome children determined to do whatever they need to get their class pet. Sometimes it was just hilarious!
4 stars
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley
Jack Everard comes back home to Key West after his Ukranian boyfriend Viktor Sirko left him and broke his heart. A chance encounter with Randy Morrison, sea snails and conch expert, brings back to life something Jack thought dead… His ailing heart.
Another nice story, with some family drama, a broken-hearted main character and a place which seems to soothe all pains… Home. It is there where Jack goes back, and where he finds a new reason to go on. Sweet
4 stars
15 short stories featuring as many different animals as you can wish… From loyal dogs to feisty squirrels, this anthology has something for everybody… Certainly worth your time.
A Few Too Many by Heidi Champa
After winning again the shepherding championship, Jake the dog goes over the limit in the celebration. When his scared owner Ted takes him to the vet, he finds much more than a cure for his ailing dog…
Oookay! So this Ted guy goes to this fair and gets drunk and forgets about his dog, who just drinks himself to stupor, so he takes him to the vet and decides to hook up with the sexy doctor while his dog is recovering… I'm not sure that's a kosher pet owner, if you know what I mean. Quite irresponsible.
3 stars
Having A Ball by Cari Z
Jimmy Sargent is a bit of a disaster, but he's got a thing for his niece, geeky eight-years-old Kelly. So he agrees to look after Kelly's phyton Ganymede while she is on holidays with her dad, Jimmy's older brother. But the very first day, Jimmy seems to do something deadly to the poor snake. Fortunately, Jimmy's fastidious brother has left the telephone of a Dr. Casey Bradshaw, a herpetologist who lives upstairs and who turns out to be a very sexy and caring neighbour…
This was good. Really good. Both characters are likeable, and their chemistry is clear for the start. I do not really like snakes, but poor Ganymede seems like a good chap. I also enjoyed the bit of drama with the relationship between the two brothers. Highly enjoyable.
4 stars
Along Come Spiders by Cari Z
Alec, a policeman coming out of a night shift, and Hedge a hyperactive nurse on his way to hospital, happen to coincide when they rush in to help an injured man after an earthquake. When an aftershock leaves them trapped in a basement with the injured man and a bunch of possibly dangerous spiders, Alec is not that happy...
Another really nice one. Both characters are likeable, Hedge is lively and impetuous, Alec is more easy-going, but his fear of spiders puts him in a bad situation here… I really loved the short epilogue about their future together. Cute and funny.
4 stars
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat
Paul Myers and Noah Collins cannot be more different, but they both love their job working with big cats… And have a crush on each other, though none of them knows about it. It takes a dangerous cuddling with Daria, one of the snow leopards at their charge, a lot of threatening and some bribing to bring them together at last…
Another very cute story about two opposites, Paul who is older, big, shy and really cautious at his job, and Noah, sweet and a bit of a nut when it comes to big cats. Paul's anger at seeing Noah risk his life with Daria soon turns into desire when he has the other man near and pliant. Very nice.
4 stars
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle
It's been three years since Steve broke his relationship with his boyfriend Eric, after trying a long distance relationship which did not work. At his new job at Salem North Aquarium in Massachusetts, Steve thinks it may be time to move on. But it takes a mischievous octopus to help him realise love is just there, waiting for him…
A tale about hope and new chances at love. It is really nice. I loved all the facts about octopuses in the story. Really clever animals!
4 stars
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding
Ira Mayer, history professor, knows nothing about injured birds, so when his Saint Bernard Lady Gaga brings him one he decides to take it to a volunteering caretaker to help it recover, only to find himself face to face with one of his old students, Caleb Phillips; Caleb had a crush on his professor, and takes his chance to act on it, but Ira is still mourning his lost lover and needs time. Fortunately, Caleb knows about injures and how to look after a wounded heart.
Another story about new chances at love. It is heart breaking but also full of hope. Likeable characters, a big slobbery dog and a promising new future ahead. Utterly enjoyable!
4 stars
Butterbean and The Pretty Princess Make a Home by R. Cooper
Riley and Eli have been living together for some time now, and although Riley enjoys his time with Eli, he does not seem to be able to get nearer the sweet big man… Not as near as he would like to. It takes two demanding stray kittens to make them realise of their mutual feelings…
Sweet. Cute. So nice characters, such a tender story. Though very different, Riley and Eli seem to have what the other is looking for. But none of them is able to act on it till the kittens Riley finds in a trash can obliges them to spend a night looking after them, and talking about their lives. So nice!
4.5 stars
Jonno by Emily Gould
Ethan does not know who dislikes him more, Indian Palm squirrel Jonno, who terrifies him at his job at a Wildlife Park, or Louis, his boyfriend, who never seems to find time to be with him any more. When Jonno bites him, he meets Mitchell, the nurse of the park, and finds a friend and a reason to change his life.
This was funny. Jonno is a very assertive squirrel which does not like the new janitor, and Ethan soon realises that approaching Jonno's food tray is not a good idea. But then, thanks to the moody squirrel bite he gets to meet Michael and … All's well that ends well! Cute
3.5 stars
On an Eagle's Wind by A.J. Marcus
Gavin McAlister is out hunting with his eagle Elphaba when he finds Wildlife Agent Heath Mallory, who's been attacked by a poacher. Gavin rescues Heath and this gives him the chance to explore his attraction which is certainly reciprocated. Now these two butch and lonely men will not be alone.
A beautiful story which unfolds slowly, showing us the attraction and blooming relationship between these tough men who, despite being loners, discover happiness and love in each others arms. Very enjoyable
3.5 stars
Why Did the Chicken Cross The Road by Skylar Jaye
Gabe is used to his quiet life far away from the city life, so a new neighbour is always something of a rush, especially when the neighbour turns out to be handsome and probably interested in hooking-up. But Aaron, Gabe's new neighbour, is throwing out mixed signals, and Gabe does not want anything too complicated so…
The animals in this story are the hens that Gabe breeds and who keep crossing to Aaron's place. They do not seem to be very appealing, and the same can be said for the main characters. The story feels somehow unfinished, the characters only superficially described, I couldn't feel the chemistry between them. From my point of view, the weakest story of the Anthology
3 stars
Tears For a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting
Akira Yamazaki's life is a disheartening routine. Every day he opens his parents flower shop and walks his golder retriever Wan along the beach. His only happy moments are his encounters with Luca, a handsome man who comes every Friday to buy flowers. But when a terrible tsunami destroys his routine, Akira loses everything… Only to find happiness at last.
I loved this one! One of my favourite stories of the anthology, Akira is an endearing character who is trapped in a life he does not like. He feels deeply attracted to Luca, but is convinced that Luca is straight… Besides, Akira has never openly recognised that he is gay. When Luca comes to rescue him after the earthquake, Akira realises their feelings are mutual. It is bittersweet and smooth, the characters a bit in the yaoi tradition. I would love to continue reading their story...
5 stars
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden
On the day of his first big exhibition, sculptor Nick Farrell is completely enthralled by Michael Davenport's intensity. His insightful questions make him feel bare and scared, but Michael also intrigues him like no one before. Fortunately, Nick's potty-mouthed parrot Oliver knows exactly what he needs…
Another great one, another favourite in the anthology. I loved Oliver, he is the best pet in all the stories, with his noisy chatter is able to break the ice between the lovers-to-be, and had me laughing at times with all his foul remarks… there is a nice mixture of poetry, feelings and humour in this story which make it very special. Another 5 stars read
5 stars
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle
Attila Keleman knows the best way to tame a wild horse is to gain his heart. Maybe that's also the best way to tame the wild young man who stole his wallet and his I-phone. If only he can convince Kai to trust him….
Another excellent one, this story left me wanting for more. It is full of possibilities. I've discovered there is a book based on these two characters, and I'm really looking forward to reading it. So promising!
5 stars
Show and Tell by Liz Makar
Damian Coletti has lost track of the number of pets he's bought and accidentally killed during his years as a Primary School teacher. His attempts to provide for suitable pets for his class are costing him a fortune… and a bit of a heartbreak. Maybe what he needs is some advise from the new pet shop owner, Sam Barker, who turns out to be very, very eager to help…
This was light and funny. Likeable characters, snake pets, and fearsome children determined to do whatever they need to get their class pet. Sometimes it was just hilarious!
4 stars
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley
Jack Everard comes back home to Key West after his Ukranian boyfriend Viktor Sirko left him and broke his heart. A chance encounter with Randy Morrison, sea snails and conch expert, brings back to life something Jack thought dead… His ailing heart.
Another nice story, with some family drama, a broken-hearted main character and a place which seems to soothe all pains… Home. It is there where Jack goes back, and where he finds a new reason to go on. Sweet
4 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2021
I finished this and thought, "I love anthologies!" It's fun to read so many different styles about some many different things.
A Few Too Many by Heidi Champa- meh. not bad, but not great.3
Having a Ball by Cari Z-cute 3.5
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew-writing was a bit jumpy, story boring, and no heat. 2.5
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat - DNF halfway for weird ,heavy-handed behavior. 1
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle - well done, interesting 4
Caress and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding - seriously, my favorite writer. so interesting. 5
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess by R. Cooper- boring, skimming at half way point and then DNF 1.5
Jonno by Emily Gould- adorable 4
On Eagle's Wings by A.J Marcus- interesting 4
Why Did the Chicken by Skylar Jaye- also interesting 3.75
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting- most of the dialogue is names, "Wan!" so strange. but story is interesting 3.5
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden- lovely 4
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle- loved this, wish it were longer 4.5
Show and Tell by Liz Makar- adorbs 4
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley- super interesting 5
A Few Too Many by Heidi Champa- meh. not bad, but not great.3
Having a Ball by Cari Z-cute 3.5
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew-writing was a bit jumpy, story boring, and no heat. 2.5
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat - DNF halfway for weird ,heavy-handed behavior. 1
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle - well done, interesting 4
Caress and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding - seriously, my favorite writer. so interesting. 5
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess by R. Cooper- boring, skimming at half way point and then DNF 1.5
Jonno by Emily Gould- adorable 4
On Eagle's Wings by A.J Marcus- interesting 4
Why Did the Chicken by Skylar Jaye- also interesting 3.75
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting- most of the dialogue is names, "Wan!" so strange. but story is interesting 3.5
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden- lovely 4
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle- loved this, wish it were longer 4.5
Show and Tell by Liz Makar- adorbs 4
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley- super interesting 5
Read
September 13, 2025DNF’d around 75%. Thought hard about doing so because this is a collection of short stories by different authors and thus each story has new potential. That said, I was increasingly disappointed with each story - even those by authors whose works I’ve previously enjoyed - that I lost faith in the curators of this collection. Will abstain from rating since I didn’t read all the way through every author’s story. Of those I read, my average rating would have hovered around 2 stars.
October 27, 2015
A Few Too Many by Heidi Champa
This one is more sexy than cute or sweet. I'm satisfied with this being a short story.
Having a Ball by Cari Z.
Very cute. Both sexy and sweet. Despite its length I got to know the main character Jimmy pretty well making him very likable. I'd like to know more about the couple, especially Casey, but was satisfied overall even without hope of a continuation.
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew
Definitely cute, I want more from these two. I like a snarky character without a chip on their shoulder and Hedge fit that well for all we got to know about him. I'd like more of these two and can see some great sex scenes if there were a continuation.
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat
Um, I guess it was good. Paul was pretty annoying with his major attitude and Noah seemed pretty shallow (not in a superficial way, just no depth to the dude). Yeah, I'm fine with no more from them.
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle
Cute. Just enough to be sweetly satisfied but still want more from them. The glossing over of the intimate moments wasn't all that great. Ok, let's be honest here, I want a cheesy sweet story with a bunch of hot sex and this story only had half of those requirements. More please!
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding
Sweet, definitely a sweet story. I want so much more of this cute pairing. Honesty and tenderness reign here, and like the previous story, I want some delicious coupling going on.
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess Make a Home by R. Cooper
Cute, but totally unfinished. I felt like there were too many lingering glances and not enough decision. I kept feeling like, "Have they come to an understanding? They have? Oh, well I guess you could call that a resolution." And then the cats, they were my favorite part even though it was so minor. I would totally read more of this couple. I am dissatisfied with what I read, but strangely enough, that dissatisfaction just makes me more interested in the tongue-tied tattooed hottie and the naive, sweet-prickly bear.
Jonno by Emily Gould
Yeah...kind of boring. But I would still read more of this one, it's like what I was given was so not enough. This story, if expanded, could really, really grow on me and I have a feeling I'd like the hell out of it.
On an Eagle's Wings by A.J. Marcus
Very sweet and a good sex scene in there too. Of all the stories in this anthology, this one feels the most complete from start to finish. Granted, we don't get a ton of depth and history with the two MCs, but we know their current frame of mind, situation, and desires, so you still get a pretty complete picture of the men and how they might fit together. Id say I would read more about them, but with an ending this whole and sweet without being too cheesy, I'm not sure what else to hope for. Like I said, this one is the most complete.
Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road? by Skylar Jaye
Pretty sweet, short, simple, a promise of a good relationship to come. Feels like it's a good first couple chapters instead of a short story. I'm also thinking I might want to know more about this Hammer...
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting
This one felt pretty complete too. There is definitely more to learn about this couple and how they'll deal with the devastation they're faced with, but ending as it did didn't leave me frustrated. And while the story was sweet, I wasn't sighing my happy little sigh when the HEA comes as a result of great story telling. A pretty average story overall, kind I'd sweet, kind of lack-luster, and kind of flat despite a positive place to end and a general sense of completion for the story.
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden
Favorite! Favorite!! FAVORITE!!! Completely forgetting that I was reading a short story, I was so involved with it that I was shocked I had come to the end. I want to know more about Michael, about Nick's family, and about the wrong that was done to a good man. I want so much more from them yet I'm not put-of-my-mind frustrated that I won't get more which is quite an interesting place to be. Is story has humor, good sex, delightful characters, depth of personality from the point-of-view MC, and enough sweetness to keep me supremely happy.
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle
Definitely gets you primed to read the full novel. Hoping my library gets this one in soon so I can keep reading!
Show and Tell by Liz Makar
Ok, so this one is probably actually my favorite. Yeah, no probably about it, I declare this one my favorite in the anthology. Super cute with all those kids, especially Kenny, and very, very funny. I had one moment where I stopped reading to laugh properly. Really sweet interactions between the MCs and I wasn't even too bothered with the intimacy moving quickly. Reading about a good bj is fine, but I wish there were a legit sex scene to read. That would probably have made this short story pretty much perfect for me.
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley
Meh...too many things in too few pages. Well, that's not entirely accurate, the brief mentions about the ex is adequate enough that you're not wondering about things that aren't essential to the movement of the basic plot. Then there's the attraction between the MCs, those do just fine, but their interactions felt so bland. Really, the whole story felt that way. Colorless prose in a setting that should have been vibrant and expressive.
This one is more sexy than cute or sweet. I'm satisfied with this being a short story.
Having a Ball by Cari Z.
Very cute. Both sexy and sweet. Despite its length I got to know the main character Jimmy pretty well making him very likable. I'd like to know more about the couple, especially Casey, but was satisfied overall even without hope of a continuation.
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew
Definitely cute, I want more from these two. I like a snarky character without a chip on their shoulder and Hedge fit that well for all we got to know about him. I'd like more of these two and can see some great sex scenes if there were a continuation.
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat
Um, I guess it was good. Paul was pretty annoying with his major attitude and Noah seemed pretty shallow (not in a superficial way, just no depth to the dude). Yeah, I'm fine with no more from them.
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle
Cute. Just enough to be sweetly satisfied but still want more from them. The glossing over of the intimate moments wasn't all that great. Ok, let's be honest here, I want a cheesy sweet story with a bunch of hot sex and this story only had half of those requirements. More please!
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding
Sweet, definitely a sweet story. I want so much more of this cute pairing. Honesty and tenderness reign here, and like the previous story, I want some delicious coupling going on.
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess Make a Home by R. Cooper
Cute, but totally unfinished. I felt like there were too many lingering glances and not enough decision. I kept feeling like, "Have they come to an understanding? They have? Oh, well I guess you could call that a resolution." And then the cats, they were my favorite part even though it was so minor. I would totally read more of this couple. I am dissatisfied with what I read, but strangely enough, that dissatisfaction just makes me more interested in the tongue-tied tattooed hottie and the naive, sweet-prickly bear.
Jonno by Emily Gould
Yeah...kind of boring. But I would still read more of this one, it's like what I was given was so not enough. This story, if expanded, could really, really grow on me and I have a feeling I'd like the hell out of it.
On an Eagle's Wings by A.J. Marcus
Very sweet and a good sex scene in there too. Of all the stories in this anthology, this one feels the most complete from start to finish. Granted, we don't get a ton of depth and history with the two MCs, but we know their current frame of mind, situation, and desires, so you still get a pretty complete picture of the men and how they might fit together. Id say I would read more about them, but with an ending this whole and sweet without being too cheesy, I'm not sure what else to hope for. Like I said, this one is the most complete.
Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road? by Skylar Jaye
Pretty sweet, short, simple, a promise of a good relationship to come. Feels like it's a good first couple chapters instead of a short story. I'm also thinking I might want to know more about this Hammer...
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting
This one felt pretty complete too. There is definitely more to learn about this couple and how they'll deal with the devastation they're faced with, but ending as it did didn't leave me frustrated. And while the story was sweet, I wasn't sighing my happy little sigh when the HEA comes as a result of great story telling. A pretty average story overall, kind I'd sweet, kind of lack-luster, and kind of flat despite a positive place to end and a general sense of completion for the story.
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden
Favorite! Favorite!! FAVORITE!!! Completely forgetting that I was reading a short story, I was so involved with it that I was shocked I had come to the end. I want to know more about Michael, about Nick's family, and about the wrong that was done to a good man. I want so much more from them yet I'm not put-of-my-mind frustrated that I won't get more which is quite an interesting place to be. Is story has humor, good sex, delightful characters, depth of personality from the point-of-view MC, and enough sweetness to keep me supremely happy.
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle
Definitely gets you primed to read the full novel. Hoping my library gets this one in soon so I can keep reading!
Show and Tell by Liz Makar
Ok, so this one is probably actually my favorite. Yeah, no probably about it, I declare this one my favorite in the anthology. Super cute with all those kids, especially Kenny, and very, very funny. I had one moment where I stopped reading to laugh properly. Really sweet interactions between the MCs and I wasn't even too bothered with the intimacy moving quickly. Reading about a good bj is fine, but I wish there were a legit sex scene to read. That would probably have made this short story pretty much perfect for me.
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley
Meh...too many things in too few pages. Well, that's not entirely accurate, the brief mentions about the ex is adequate enough that you're not wondering about things that aren't essential to the movement of the basic plot. Then there's the attraction between the MCs, those do just fine, but their interactions felt so bland. Really, the whole story felt that way. Colorless prose in a setting that should have been vibrant and expressive.
May 15, 2017
Some of them were very enjoyable (I really liked the last one and a few towards the beginning) but a bunch made me wonder if the authors have ever met or interacted with human beings.
Read
September 12, 2019Abandoned after 2 stories. Too little plot and too much skimming of boring sex scenes.
December 18, 2019
With any anthology, some stories are great and others are duds. This one seemed to have more duds than average.
October 5, 2018
Fun Read! These short stories were just a great escape with the animals bringing couples together. There were 3 that really stood out for me ‘On an Eagles Wing’, ‘Wild Horses’ and ‘Show and Tell’. I will be looking at those authors for other reads. But many of them made me smile or laugh which is must for me.
November 11, 2013
A satisfying collection of animal-assisted m/m romance short stories.
My favorites were "Stripped Bare" and "Wild Horses". The parrot dialog in stripped bare was great, and I went looking for a longer story with these characters. I did not find one, but I bought three other stories from the same author Lily Velden
Wild Horses left me wanting more, and I was pleased to find a full length novel by the author, with the same title. The short story in the anthology is only the prologue in the novel Wild Horses
I liked all the stories, but those 2 made me look for more.
My favorites were "Stripped Bare" and "Wild Horses". The parrot dialog in stripped bare was great, and I went looking for a longer story with these characters. I did not find one, but I bought three other stories from the same author Lily Velden
Wild Horses left me wanting more, and I was pleased to find a full length novel by the author, with the same title. The short story in the anthology is only the prologue in the novel Wild Horses
I liked all the stories, but those 2 made me look for more.
February 17, 2021
A Few Too Many by Heidi Champa - 3 stars
Having a Ball by Cari Z. - 3.5 stars
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew - 5 stars
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat - 3 stars
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle - 2.5 stars
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding - 2 stars
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess Make a Home by R. Cooper - 2 stars
Jonno by Emily Gould - 3.5 stars
On an Eagle's Wings by A.J. Marcus - 1 star
Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road? by Skylar Jaye - 2.5 stars
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting - 3 stars
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden - 2 stars
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle - 3.5 stars
Show and Tell by Liz Makar - 2.5 stars
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley - 2 stars
Having a Ball by Cari Z. - 3.5 stars
Along Came Spiders by Matthew Vandrew - 5 stars
Cuddling Up by Chris T. Kat - 3 stars
New Tides by Avery Vanderlyle - 2.5 stars
Care and Rehabilitation by Kim Fielding - 2 stars
Butterbean and the Pretty Princess Make a Home by R. Cooper - 2 stars
Jonno by Emily Gould - 3.5 stars
On an Eagle's Wings by A.J. Marcus - 1 star
Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road? by Skylar Jaye - 2.5 stars
Tears for a Broken Sun by Minerva Wisting - 3 stars
Stripped Bare by Lily Velden - 2 stars
Wild Horses by Kate Pavelle - 3.5 stars
Show and Tell by Liz Makar - 2.5 stars
The Conch Republic by G.S. Wiley - 2 stars
October 27, 2013
Real Rating: 1-3 Stars
So, I haven't really read an anthology like this in a LONG time. After reading this book, I know why. There are several issues I have with this anthology. On the plus side, there were several novelas here that were a good basis of a story. However, that is all that they are. A good basis. These are the good stories. There are a few stories here that I had a heck of a time even caring enough about to finish (even though they were SHORT).
On a final note, I have, again, decided that I don't read anthologies.
So, I haven't really read an anthology like this in a LONG time. After reading this book, I know why. There are several issues I have with this anthology. On the plus side, there were several novelas here that were a good basis of a story. However, that is all that they are. A good basis. These are the good stories. There are a few stories here that I had a heck of a time even caring enough about to finish (even though they were SHORT).
On a final note, I have, again, decided that I don't read anthologies.
September 16, 2012
動物がキューピッド役として登場するお話ばかりを集めたアンソロジー。
短編が15ほど。表紙でわかるように明るくて可愛いお話が多い。でも表紙に描かれている動物が全部出てくるわけじゃなく、ペットとして飼われている動物が中心。
短編なので、基本は一目惚れかずっと前から好きでした、なcp。動物好きで、ほのぼのしたい時にぴったり。
ただ1つだけ引っ掛かりを覚えたお話が「TEARS FOR A BROKEN SUN」。東日本大震災の当日を描いたもので、まさかmmロマンスでテーマにされるとはと衝撃を受けた。作者は日本人の夫と日本に住んでいて震災を実際に経験したらしい。mmで登場する日本人を思えば、このお話の主人公Akiraはそれなりに日本人っぽいけど、やっぱり色々違和感はあり。何より震災でロマンスはないでしょう…不謹慎だ、と思う気持ちが消えなかった。日本人以外が読んだら、こんな破壊的状況で芽生えた愛、と読めるのかなあ。
このお話以外はよかった、としか言えない。
短編が15ほど。表紙でわかるように明るくて可愛いお話が多い。でも表紙に描かれている動物が全部出てくるわけじゃなく、ペットとして飼われている動物が中心。
短編なので、基本は一目惚れかずっと前から好きでした、なcp。動物好きで、ほのぼのしたい時にぴったり。
ただ1つだけ引っ掛かりを覚えたお話が「TEARS FOR A BROKEN SUN」。東日本大震災の当日を描いたもので、まさかmmロマンスでテーマにされるとはと衝撃を受けた。作者は日本人の夫と日本に住んでいて震災を実際に経験したらしい。mmで登場する日本人を思えば、このお話の主人公Akiraはそれなりに日本人っぽいけど、やっぱり色々違和感はあり。何より震災でロマンスはないでしょう…不謹慎だ、と思う気持ちが消えなかった。日本人以外が読んだら、こんな破壊的状況で芽生えた愛、と読めるのかなあ。
このお話以外はよかった、としか言えない。
August 31, 2012
There were a few I found to be too short and one in particular that I found just ended too abruptly (the homeless thief and horse one). There was one in particular that was my favorite(the parrot cracked me up with some of the things it said). Overall, all the stories were very entertaining and I kind of wish I had more to read.
April 23, 2016
Well, as always with this kind of book - some stories were great, some I really didn't like, some very okay and one I wish I could rip out of the book.
All in all I'd say that my feelings about the stories and therefore tends a bit more to "It was okay" than "I like it".
All in all I'd say that my feelings about the stories and therefore tends a bit more to "It was okay" than "I like it".
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2013
So many short-stories. So many pages. And I have to admit I didn't see a point in most of them. Some were romantic and well written. Others were vague and not much. Overall it's wasn't really worth the time I spent reading it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews