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Horny
Ryan Caulfield is a devout avoider of risk, so it comes as a surprise when he agrees to help a group of supernatural law enforcers catch Zeus (the god voted Least Likely to Keep It in His Pants). But how could he say no? He’s nothing if not law-abiding, even if it’s a legal code from another plane of existence. Besides, it all seems harmless enough . . . at least until the half-naked and all-hot immortal with wings and horns shows up.
In his century as an investigator for the Olympic pantheon, Leander of the eroté has solved a lot of cases and slept with a lot of humans. But on this investigation, it looks like he won’t be doing either. His assigned task is bogus, and the most alluring mortal he’s ever met is determined to avoid hooking up.
But the pull Leander feels toward Ryan the bartender won’t let him turn his attention away for long. Soon, he finds himself interested in much more than his usual dalliances with mortals. Now if only he can convince Ryan he’s worth the risk.
This title is part of the My Haunted Blender's Gay Love Affair, and Other Twisted Tales collection.
In his century as an investigator for the Olympic pantheon, Leander of the eroté has solved a lot of cases and slept with a lot of humans. But on this investigation, it looks like he won’t be doing either. His assigned task is bogus, and the most alluring mortal he’s ever met is determined to avoid hooking up.
But the pull Leander feels toward Ryan the bartender won’t let him turn his attention away for long. Soon, he finds himself interested in much more than his usual dalliances with mortals. Now if only he can convince Ryan he’s worth the risk.
This title is part of the My Haunted Blender's Gay Love Affair, and Other Twisted Tales collection.
110 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2014
4 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Anne Tenino
22 books669 followersCatalyzed by her discovery of LGBTQ romance, Anne Tenino left the lucrative fields of art history, non-profit fundraising, and domestic engineering (in that order) to follow her dream of become a starving romance author. For good or ill, her snarky, silly, quasi-British sense of humor came along for the ride.
Anne applies her particular blend of romance, comedy, and gay protagonists to contemporary, scifi, and paranormal tales. Her works have won many awards; her novel, Frat Boy and Toppy, is frequently referred to as a gay romance classic; she’s been featured in RT Book Reviews magazine; she holds the position of VP of Programming at her local RWA chapter; and she’s achieved bestseller status on Amazon’s gay romance list.
Born and raised in Oregon, Anne now lives in Portland with her family, who have all taken a sacred oath never to read her books. When not crocheting genitalia, growing tomatoes, driving teenagers around, or cooking something obscure, she can be found at her computer, procrastinating. Possibly while also lying on the couch, eating bon-bons.
Check out what Anne’s up to now by visiting her site. http://annetenino.com
Links:
Dreamspinner Press: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
Riptide:
http://www.riptidepublishing.com/auth...
Chicks & Dicks:
http://chicksndicks.blogspot.com
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/#!/AnneTenino
Goodreads profile:
http://www.goodreads.com/annetenino
Anne applies her particular blend of romance, comedy, and gay protagonists to contemporary, scifi, and paranormal tales. Her works have won many awards; her novel, Frat Boy and Toppy, is frequently referred to as a gay romance classic; she’s been featured in RT Book Reviews magazine; she holds the position of VP of Programming at her local RWA chapter; and she’s achieved bestseller status on Amazon’s gay romance list.
Born and raised in Oregon, Anne now lives in Portland with her family, who have all taken a sacred oath never to read her books. When not crocheting genitalia, growing tomatoes, driving teenagers around, or cooking something obscure, she can be found at her computer, procrastinating. Possibly while also lying on the couch, eating bon-bons.
Check out what Anne’s up to now by visiting her site. http://annetenino.com
Links:
Dreamspinner Press: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
Riptide:
http://www.riptidepublishing.com/auth...
Chicks & Dicks:
http://chicksndicks.blogspot.com
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/#!/AnneTenino
Goodreads profile:
http://www.goodreads.com/annetenino
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 27, 2014
Cute, but not nearly as good as I had expected.
I am a huge Anne Tenino fan-girl. I have read almost every book that she has written, and her stories are my favorite comfort reads. However, this book was a bumpy ride.
First of all, the beginning of this story was terrible. I hated the lame excuse for these supernatural creatures to invade the bar where our MC, Ryan, worked, and the easy way that everyone accepted the mythological beings. It just didn't make sense to me. The world-building felt rushed and lazy.
I also was super grumpy about the insta-lusty/love between Ryan and Leander. They barely said two words to each other and there were all of these emotions at play. Bleah.
However, at about 50% through the story the tides started turning. The sex scenes picked up and everything got hotter... cuter... way more enjoyable. I began to get into the groove of the story, and my face got all smiley and happy.
If you like mythological beings and gods playing on Earth, light paranormal romance, and some pretty hot sex then you should check this one out. For me, the lackluster start and the lack of a slow-build almost sank this ship before it got out of the harbor.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I am a huge Anne Tenino fan-girl. I have read almost every book that she has written, and her stories are my favorite comfort reads. However, this book was a bumpy ride.
First of all, the beginning of this story was terrible. I hated the lame excuse for these supernatural creatures to invade the bar where our MC, Ryan, worked, and the easy way that everyone accepted the mythological beings. It just didn't make sense to me. The world-building felt rushed and lazy.
I also was super grumpy about the insta-lusty/love between Ryan and Leander. They barely said two words to each other and there were all of these emotions at play. Bleah.
However, at about 50% through the story the tides started turning. The sex scenes picked up and everything got hotter... cuter... way more enjoyable. I began to get into the groove of the story, and my face got all smiley and happy.
If you like mythological beings and gods playing on Earth, light paranormal romance, and some pretty hot sex then you should check this one out. For me, the lackluster start and the lack of a slow-build almost sank this ship before it got out of the harbor.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
April 25, 2020
So a veritable posse of immortal police descend into the human realm asking Ryan for his help in catching a law breaking Zeus. Sure. Why not?
Of course one of these immortals is a love demigod.
And of course humans and demigods are each other's catnip.
Ryan tries so very hard to resist Leander and Leander tries so very hard to be patient. This was an interesting premise incorporating (true?) Greek mythology regarding destined mates. A bit of a slow start and I've read sexier Tenino, but this grew on me. Entertaining and smexy enough.
Of course one of these immortals is a love demigod.
And of course humans and demigods are each other's catnip.
Ryan tries so very hard to resist Leander and Leander tries so very hard to be patient. This was an interesting premise incorporating (true?) Greek mythology regarding destined mates. A bit of a slow start and I've read sexier Tenino, but this grew on me. Entertaining and smexy enough.
September 8, 2014
New Anne Tenino????
SQUEE!!
***********************************
3.5 stars
Not my absolute favorite of hers but still very enjoyable.
October 3, 2017
Well this was a cute way to pass a bit of time...
'Horny' was a cute story that took more than a little poetic license with Greek mythology. When Ryan Caulfield ends up with a group of supernatural law enforcers in his bar hunting for a less than law abiding Zeus the last thing Ryan expects to happen is that he'll be attracted to one of them and even more surprising they're attracted to him. As a paranormal investigator and an eroté, Leander's use to not having to work for his conquest but when it comes to Ryan things just are coming easy to Leander and not everything's as it seems to be.
With a title like 'Horny' the one thing that you could reasonably safely assume is that this is not a serious story and you're right. There were some funny and entertaining moments in this one unfortunately they were interspersed with moments of what felt a little bit like the story was maybe trying too hard. While the first half of this story waffled between 2 and 3 stars the second part made up for it and was a little more consistently on a 3 star level. I found myself far more interested and invested in what was happening and where my mind had wandered a bit at the beginning I found myself paying closer attention to what was happening and enjoying myself a bit more during the last half of the story.
While the story started out feeling very much like insta-love/lust at first things became far more interesting when it got dialed back a notch and Leander had to start working for what he wanted and both men are taking the time to get to know each other along with still having a wayward Zeus to bring to justice.
Nick J. Russo was the narrator for this light and amusing story and his voice added depth and character to the story and making for yet another entertaining listening experience.
*************************
An audio book of 'Horny' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
'Horny' was a cute story that took more than a little poetic license with Greek mythology. When Ryan Caulfield ends up with a group of supernatural law enforcers in his bar hunting for a less than law abiding Zeus the last thing Ryan expects to happen is that he'll be attracted to one of them and even more surprising they're attracted to him. As a paranormal investigator and an eroté, Leander's use to not having to work for his conquest but when it comes to Ryan things just are coming easy to Leander and not everything's as it seems to be.
With a title like 'Horny' the one thing that you could reasonably safely assume is that this is not a serious story and you're right. There were some funny and entertaining moments in this one unfortunately they were interspersed with moments of what felt a little bit like the story was maybe trying too hard. While the first half of this story waffled between 2 and 3 stars the second part made up for it and was a little more consistently on a 3 star level. I found myself far more interested and invested in what was happening and where my mind had wandered a bit at the beginning I found myself paying closer attention to what was happening and enjoying myself a bit more during the last half of the story.
While the story started out feeling very much like insta-love/lust at first things became far more interesting when it got dialed back a notch and Leander had to start working for what he wanted and both men are taking the time to get to know each other along with still having a wayward Zeus to bring to justice.
Nick J. Russo was the narrator for this light and amusing story and his voice added depth and character to the story and making for yet another entertaining listening experience.
*************************
An audio book of 'Horny' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2014
Cheeky fun.
Horny is a lighthearted romp about a gang of law enforcing demigods who descend on a roadhouse to surveil, and hopefully arrest, Zeus for misuse of power. How’s Zeus misusing his power? Nope. Not saying.
Ryan is said owner/operator and bartender of the roadhouse. He’s sort of vowed to cease and desist having empty and anonymous sex. Well, that vow gets put to the test when these demigods descend namely in form of Leander, a son of Eros. Leander is horny and persistent, though he finds this whole mortal seduction thing perplexing. Quite frankly, he’s baffled as to how Ryan is resisting him since it’s obvious he desires him. So what is the ding dang hold up?
All of these demigods are sexed up, randy as hell and they all have a certain charm.
Who doesn’t love a demigod stripper just trying to entertain the masses?
If I was a betting woman I’d say this is the beginning of a series. Horny focuses on Ryan and Leander. A good level of tension between them and some moderately hot sexy times coupled with decent relationship development kept it at a reasonable pace. We do get quite a bit of demigod politics and power structures which didn’t do much for me.
The writing I found to be repetitive what with the bar towels, cutting lemons, bar towels, wiping down the bar… you get the gist. The dialogue is a bit hokey from time to time, but it is fun and fluffy.
A quick, enjoyable and entertaining read.
Horny is a lighthearted romp about a gang of law enforcing demigods who descend on a roadhouse to surveil, and hopefully arrest, Zeus for misuse of power. How’s Zeus misusing his power? Nope. Not saying.
Ryan is said owner/operator and bartender of the roadhouse. He’s sort of vowed to cease and desist having empty and anonymous sex. Well, that vow gets put to the test when these demigods descend namely in form of Leander, a son of Eros. Leander is horny and persistent, though he finds this whole mortal seduction thing perplexing. Quite frankly, he’s baffled as to how Ryan is resisting him since it’s obvious he desires him. So what is the ding dang hold up?
All of these demigods are sexed up, randy as hell and they all have a certain charm.
“These wenches need a stripper, and I’m the hero for the job. But first? Need some better music. Where’s that fucking faun? Kallisto! Get your horny ass over here and break out those pipes!”
Who doesn’t love a demigod stripper just trying to entertain the masses?
If I was a betting woman I’d say this is the beginning of a series. Horny focuses on Ryan and Leander. A good level of tension between them and some moderately hot sexy times coupled with decent relationship development kept it at a reasonable pace. We do get quite a bit of demigod politics and power structures which didn’t do much for me.
The writing I found to be repetitive what with the bar towels, cutting lemons, bar towels, wiping down the bar… you get the gist. The dialogue is a bit hokey from time to time, but it is fun and fluffy.
A quick, enjoyable and entertaining read.
March 27, 2019
I'm fairly certain I wouldn't have taken it as well as Ryan does when four members of the satyroi, officers of pantheonic law on Mount Olympus, appear in the middle of the day on the dance floor of his bar. Achilles (Axe) is their leader, Idra is a nymph, Gany is a catamite, Karl is a satyr, Patroclus is Axe's husband, and Leander is a love demigod, and they're looking for Zeus who apparently has violated one too many of the morality sanctions he's under.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
October 27, 2018
This is one of those books that despite the set-up and the characters and the subject seems to drag forever. Maybe it's the lack of any considerable action? The lack of the actual crime investigation and an anticlimactic apprehending of the almighty Zeus? The lack of any kind of angst even in the presence of a profound, life-altering revelation?
Not that the book was badly written. I think that was the only reason I kept struggling through the pages.
Not that the book was badly written. I think that was the only reason I kept struggling through the pages.
April 26, 2019
DNF 47%
After recently reading "Too Stupid to live" and "Billionaire With Benefits" and loving them both to pieces I was quite disappointed with this one.. I read about half (Chapter 6) before I let this one go.
It's basically about warriors from the Greek legends being real and coming to Ryan a local human owning a bar to help them look for Zeus who has been breaking the law by somehow making the gods that aren't suppose to have sex with humans (because of prior "misbehavior") be able to. Confused? yeah, I was confused most of the time.. Couldn't remember who is who, what's their deal and why (As usual) when it comes to MM novels when there are gay couples it seems EVERYONE around them are gay.
I think I let this one go when Ryan and Leander (one of the warriors) are FINALLY going to get some action (after 3 boring chapters of them basically looking at each other longingly). I was so annoyed and mostly bored I couldn't be bothered reading more about them.
More Reviews HERE
After recently reading "Too Stupid to live" and "Billionaire With Benefits" and loving them both to pieces I was quite disappointed with this one.. I read about half (Chapter 6) before I let this one go.
It's basically about warriors from the Greek legends being real and coming to Ryan a local human owning a bar to help them look for Zeus who has been breaking the law by somehow making the gods that aren't suppose to have sex with humans (because of prior "misbehavior") be able to. Confused? yeah, I was confused most of the time.. Couldn't remember who is who, what's their deal and why (As usual) when it comes to MM novels when there are gay couples it seems EVERYONE around them are gay.
I think I let this one go when Ryan and Leander (one of the warriors) are FINALLY going to get some action (after 3 boring chapters of them basically looking at each other longingly). I was so annoyed and mostly bored I couldn't be bothered reading more about them.
More Reviews HERE
August 17, 2014
Of all the three books in this anthology, I felt this one was the most completed one in terms of the MCs earning their HEA as well as having a more believable pacing in their romantic progression.
Just like in
, Ms. Tenino managed to write the sex scenes that is also a plot progression and not simply a filler or a requirement.
However, for some reason, I couldn't quite into the story. I have paused often, and do something else before continue to read. Even though, Greek mythology is still one of my favorite subject.
Despite how the story focused on Ryan and Leander, the secondary characters all had a role to play and were all fairly interesting in their own rights. Hayley and Ryan's grandpa certainly shine.
Just like in
, Ms. Tenino managed to write the sex scenes that is also a plot progression and not simply a filler or a requirement.However, for some reason, I couldn't quite into the story. I have paused often, and do something else before continue to read. Even though, Greek mythology is still one of my favorite subject.
Despite how the story focused on Ryan and Leander, the secondary characters all had a role to play and were all fairly interesting in their own rights. Hayley and Ryan's grandpa certainly shine.
August 14, 2014
Anne Tenino's contribution to My Haunted Blender's Gay Love Affair, and Other Twisted Tales. Horny is about a group of law enforcing mythological beings who pop in at a bar and ask the nonplussed bartender for assistance in catching a law breaking Zeus. Poor Ryan ends up hosting demigods, fauns and sex gods at his bar and one of them won't stop trying to get into his pants.
Interesting but not as good as I had hoped it would be not enough action for my liking.
Interesting but not as good as I had hoped it would be not enough action for my liking.
February 5, 2017
I only found this book because I was looking for a book which fitted certain parameters for a challenge.
What a little gem.
Demigods come down to earth to hunt for and arrest Zeus as he is up to no good.
Ryan, a bar owner meets Leander, a demigod and its fate.
This was a humorous book which I thoroughly enjoyed. These gods bought to life and put in human situations was entertaining. Especially Gany.
I looked to see if there were further books in this series but it appears to be a standalone which is a pity. I am sure there is a lot more mileage that the writer could get out of these characters.
What a little gem.
Demigods come down to earth to hunt for and arrest Zeus as he is up to no good.
Ryan, a bar owner meets Leander, a demigod and its fate.
This was a humorous book which I thoroughly enjoyed. These gods bought to life and put in human situations was entertaining. Especially Gany.
I looked to see if there were further books in this series but it appears to be a standalone which is a pity. I am sure there is a lot more mileage that the writer could get out of these characters.
July 30, 2022
Pedophile jokes are not funny. DNF
Someone should've informed the author that catamites were the young boys who were victims of pedophiles who kept them for sex. Therefore, there is nothing entertaining in constantly making jokes about one of the primary characters being a catamite and being a slutty twink.
All it takes is a quick Internet search and look through a dictionary to gather this information. There's no excuse for the author not knowing this and there's certainly no excuse for knowing it and continuing on with this disgusting concept, anyway.
Someone should've informed the author that catamites were the young boys who were victims of pedophiles who kept them for sex. Therefore, there is nothing entertaining in constantly making jokes about one of the primary characters being a catamite and being a slutty twink.
All it takes is a quick Internet search and look through a dictionary to gather this information. There's no excuse for the author not knowing this and there's certainly no excuse for knowing it and continuing on with this disgusting concept, anyway.
October 15, 2014
An amusing romance with a nice re-interpretation of Greek mythology.
I like how Leander and Ryan had this cat-and-mouse courtship ritual. It all moved a bit too fast after Ryan decided to become intimate with Leander though.
The sub-plot was weird too. It's a fun read, but leaves me a little unsatisfied.
I like how Leander and Ryan had this cat-and-mouse courtship ritual. It all moved a bit too fast after Ryan decided to become intimate with Leander though.
The sub-plot was weird too. It's a fun read, but leaves me a little unsatisfied.
February 4, 2015
3.5 fluffy stars
Cute short story & easy to read.
Cute short story & easy to read.
November 2, 2017
Anne Tenino is one of those authors that can be hit or miss for me. I don’t like the BDSMy aspect of some of her stories so that can put me off. This, however is not like anything by her, that I’ve read. It wasn’t BDSMy but it wasn’t her usual writing style either.
There are aspects of this that totally worked: it’s creative and unique with a ton of potential. Maybe it’s length keeps it from being MORE … but there were times when I was racing along – on the track – then we’d take a left and I’d be scratching my head wondering “which way did he go?”
Mostly, I was confused by everyone’s motivations and felt they were a bit contradictory at times, but I don’t really want to spoil anything by being specific. There are also a lot of characters introduced – and if this were the beginning to a series – that’d make sense – however – I’m not sure that’s the case. What we’re left with is a bunch of really interesting characters and not much idea as to their purpose.
In a short story every word is vital, so I tend to really look for sharp editing to make the story pop. I’m not sure this got the editing it deserved.
I was very compelled by the premise and would love to see more from this “world” and maybe a sequel or follow up to the MCs themselves because it does seem fascinating.
I give this 3.75 of 5 stars because it was funny and sweet and I really liked the idea, but it didn’t quite live up to my expectations of what this author can do.
Audio
Nick J Russo is the main reason I picked this up. I absolutely love listening to him and he can entertain me effortlessly so I knew he’d do a great job of bringing this to life.
He’s great with timing and has a very erotic voice that suited these characters perfectly.
5 of 5 stars
Overall 4.25 (rounded to 4.5) stars of 5
I would definitely recommend this – overall- I think it was a great listen and though the story wasn’t perfect – it was fun and a wonderful fit for the season!
There are aspects of this that totally worked: it’s creative and unique with a ton of potential. Maybe it’s length keeps it from being MORE … but there were times when I was racing along – on the track – then we’d take a left and I’d be scratching my head wondering “which way did he go?”
Mostly, I was confused by everyone’s motivations and felt they were a bit contradictory at times, but I don’t really want to spoil anything by being specific. There are also a lot of characters introduced – and if this were the beginning to a series – that’d make sense – however – I’m not sure that’s the case. What we’re left with is a bunch of really interesting characters and not much idea as to their purpose.
In a short story every word is vital, so I tend to really look for sharp editing to make the story pop. I’m not sure this got the editing it deserved.
I was very compelled by the premise and would love to see more from this “world” and maybe a sequel or follow up to the MCs themselves because it does seem fascinating.
I give this 3.75 of 5 stars because it was funny and sweet and I really liked the idea, but it didn’t quite live up to my expectations of what this author can do.
Audio
Nick J Russo is the main reason I picked this up. I absolutely love listening to him and he can entertain me effortlessly so I knew he’d do a great job of bringing this to life.
He’s great with timing and has a very erotic voice that suited these characters perfectly.
5 of 5 stars
Overall 4.25 (rounded to 4.5) stars of 5
I would definitely recommend this – overall- I think it was a great listen and though the story wasn’t perfect – it was fun and a wonderful fit for the season!
February 3, 2019
Anne Tenino is probably my favorite author of contemporary mm erotic romance, so when I saw this book, with its sexy little horned demigod on the cover, I was intrigued.
First things first: I listened to the audiobook rather than reading this, and I will say that Nick J. Russo is a talented actor with a few veeeery sexy voices in his bag of tricks. His narration is probably what pushed this from a solid 4-stars to 5.
Even so, this was a fun little romp. I enjoyed how smitten the MCs were from the beginning, and yet how long the game of cat and mouse went on before anything physical happened. The tension was thick and very, very hot.
Speaking of the MCs, Ryan is sweet and just broken enough to be interesting. Leander has so much going for him, and watching him deliberately set it all aside to win Ryan's interest, then trust, then heart was....gorgeous.
Some people are coming for the book because the plot is...stupid? They're not wrong. The set-up is a little silly. But I enjoyed the goofiness of the tone, and the anachronism. All in all, HORNY ain't Faulkner, but it does feel exactly like the book it wants to be. I definitely got five stars worth of enjoyment out of listening to it.
First things first: I listened to the audiobook rather than reading this, and I will say that Nick J. Russo is a talented actor with a few veeeery sexy voices in his bag of tricks. His narration is probably what pushed this from a solid 4-stars to 5.
Even so, this was a fun little romp. I enjoyed how smitten the MCs were from the beginning, and yet how long the game of cat and mouse went on before anything physical happened. The tension was thick and very, very hot.
Speaking of the MCs, Ryan is sweet and just broken enough to be interesting. Leander has so much going for him, and watching him deliberately set it all aside to win Ryan's interest, then trust, then heart was....gorgeous.
Some people are coming for the book because the plot is...stupid? They're not wrong. The set-up is a little silly. But I enjoyed the goofiness of the tone, and the anachronism. All in all, HORNY ain't Faulkner, but it does feel exactly like the book it wants to be. I definitely got five stars worth of enjoyment out of listening to it.
October 19, 2017
This was such a fun read. Ryan's life is completely turned on its head when a group of demigods appear in his bar one night at closing. This group is tracking down Zeus, who apparently is a big trouble maker.
Ryan is a man who spent his youth chasing love in the beds of many men, but predictably it never worked. Now he guards his heart and doesn't let anyone near his bed. However, Ryan is having a difficult time keeping his hands off Leander, even knowing that Leander will be leaving as soon as the investigation is over. Leander has spent his very long life being a love em and leave em man, but he is drawn to Ryan in a way that has never happened before.
This is a quick and entertaining read; Ryan and Leander and wonderful characters.
Ryan is a man who spent his youth chasing love in the beds of many men, but predictably it never worked. Now he guards his heart and doesn't let anyone near his bed. However, Ryan is having a difficult time keeping his hands off Leander, even knowing that Leander will be leaving as soon as the investigation is over. Leander has spent his very long life being a love em and leave em man, but he is drawn to Ryan in a way that has never happened before.
This is a quick and entertaining read; Ryan and Leander and wonderful characters.
October 23, 2017
Rather good for such a short story...
The main story was about Ryan and Leander and their avoidance to get involved. I wish the mystery plot had gotten a bit more focus, because that was what I found interesting.
The characters were nice and the thought of Achilles as a whipped husband was refreshing. I wish there was more books about about the other characters in the satyroi because they weren’t given enough room.
The easy acceptance of the supernatural was a bit of an issue for me. And to me all the different races were a bit confusing. Too much crammed into such a short story.
The main story was about Ryan and Leander and their avoidance to get involved. I wish the mystery plot had gotten a bit more focus, because that was what I found interesting.
The characters were nice and the thought of Achilles as a whipped husband was refreshing. I wish there was more books about about the other characters in the satyroi because they weren’t given enough room.
The easy acceptance of the supernatural was a bit of an issue for me. And to me all the different races were a bit confusing. Too much crammed into such a short story.
July 13, 2017
3.5 stars
If this weren't part of an anthology, the title would have made me not read it. Which would have been a shame, as it's delightful.
Some Favorite Quotes:
"That's how we get a lot of our tips," Leander said. "The Immortal Moral Authority has a prophecy hotline, and they're always calling in."
If this weren't part of an anthology, the title would have made me not read it. Which would have been a shame, as it's delightful.
Some Favorite Quotes:
"That's how we get a lot of our tips," Leander said. "The Immortal Moral Authority has a prophecy hotline, and they're always calling in."
October 19, 2020
A cute, quick read. Originally part of an anthology, this tale would have been better expanded into a full-length novel. So, I find myself disappointed at its abrupt ending. This clearly needs 50 thousand more words.
November 20, 2014
4.5 star review by Cindy
I chose this story to review because I used to love the whole idea of the Greek and Roman gods and their stories when I was younger. This is not one of those classic stories…
However it is something else entirely that I absolutely adored.
Poor Ryan Caulfield has a strange new world dropped in his lap and all things considered? He deals with it rather well. He should probably be more thrown by the fact that his bar has been invaded by demi-gods and ancient heros who are searching for Zeus who’s gone rogue, but somehow he handles the whole thing rather well.
Until Leander materializes in front of him.
Leander is beautiful and strong, one of the gods who’s used to having mortals throw themselves at his feet and when Ryan resists, despite the fact that Leander knows that Ryan wants him, it just intrigues him more. He spends a lot of time getting to know Ryan and trying to figure out the man’s reluctance to give in to his desires, with the help of Ryan’s friend Hayley.
Anne Tenino managed to perfectly portray the arrogance of the gods while making me smile with their “out of time and place” quirkiness. The gods live according to their own rules (and they have lots of them) but most of them don’t make sense to the mortals they interact with.
My only complaint about this story is that it was too short. I would have loved to have seen this stretched out more. Ryan ends up with a really big decision to make and I think it would have been delicious to have the anticipation build and have more questions being asked before he made his decision.
That being said, I loved so much about this story. I’ll be honest, I don’t know if the stories within this story are true myths or not, but I loved the feel of them and the flavour and honesty they gave to the tale being told by Ms. Tenino.
The supporting characters are mostly funny but there are little touches of sweetness that make them lovable. Ryan’s grandfather makes a short but memorable appearance and the rest of the “god squad” who come to Ryan’s bar looking for Zeus are a memorable group indeed.
I’m a big fan of Anne Tenino’s writing and story has just cemented that further.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
I chose this story to review because I used to love the whole idea of the Greek and Roman gods and their stories when I was younger. This is not one of those classic stories…
However it is something else entirely that I absolutely adored.
Poor Ryan Caulfield has a strange new world dropped in his lap and all things considered? He deals with it rather well. He should probably be more thrown by the fact that his bar has been invaded by demi-gods and ancient heros who are searching for Zeus who’s gone rogue, but somehow he handles the whole thing rather well.
Until Leander materializes in front of him.
Leander is beautiful and strong, one of the gods who’s used to having mortals throw themselves at his feet and when Ryan resists, despite the fact that Leander knows that Ryan wants him, it just intrigues him more. He spends a lot of time getting to know Ryan and trying to figure out the man’s reluctance to give in to his desires, with the help of Ryan’s friend Hayley.
Anne Tenino managed to perfectly portray the arrogance of the gods while making me smile with their “out of time and place” quirkiness. The gods live according to their own rules (and they have lots of them) but most of them don’t make sense to the mortals they interact with.
My only complaint about this story is that it was too short. I would have loved to have seen this stretched out more. Ryan ends up with a really big decision to make and I think it would have been delicious to have the anticipation build and have more questions being asked before he made his decision.
That being said, I loved so much about this story. I’ll be honest, I don’t know if the stories within this story are true myths or not, but I loved the feel of them and the flavour and honesty they gave to the tale being told by Ms. Tenino.
The supporting characters are mostly funny but there are little touches of sweetness that make them lovable. Ryan’s grandfather makes a short but memorable appearance and the rest of the “god squad” who come to Ryan’s bar looking for Zeus are a memorable group indeed.
I’m a big fan of Anne Tenino’s writing and story has just cemented that further.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
February 15, 2015
Review can be read at It's About The Book
This was fun little story. I’m pretty impressed the author pulled off a unique complete short story with gods that didn’t come off cheesy. It was a very sweet romance that had me laughing out loud and kept me intrigued with the little doses of mythology. I was smitten with the MCs and anticipating the moment they’d finally give in. When they finally do it was meaningful sex! What’s not to like?
Ryan’s world is flipped upside down when a group of demi gods and warriors walk into his bar one night claiming they’re hunting Zeus for crimes against humans. Zeus has gotten into a bit of trouble over the years for using his powers to persuade humans into doing whatever he wants. His punishment is impotence. Zeus being the evil clever man he is finds a way around that in the form of a drug found on Earth that helps a man get it up and he’s using Ryan’s bar to sell it to other gods who have been punished the same way. Ryan and the team join together to stop Zeus from dealing to his pervy “do what they want” friends and bring him in.
Ryan feels a connection to Leander from the start. Again, this could have been very cliché but it totally worked for me. The author builds the tension through the MCs resisting the attraction. The story alternates between Ryan and Leander’s POVs so you do get to know what they’re both thinking. Leander is surprised he’s attracted to a human this strongly. Ryan no longer does casual sex. Five years abstinence goes out the window when Leander sets his sites on Ryan.
This story was such a great read. There was tons of humor from the MCs and the secondary characters. The love story was super romantic without being too sickly sweet. Adorable I’d say if the sexual tension and sex wasn’t so hot. I was very happy with this story. I’d love more from this world. Gany needs to find his man!
This was fun little story. I’m pretty impressed the author pulled off a unique complete short story with gods that didn’t come off cheesy. It was a very sweet romance that had me laughing out loud and kept me intrigued with the little doses of mythology. I was smitten with the MCs and anticipating the moment they’d finally give in. When they finally do it was meaningful sex! What’s not to like?
Ryan’s world is flipped upside down when a group of demi gods and warriors walk into his bar one night claiming they’re hunting Zeus for crimes against humans. Zeus has gotten into a bit of trouble over the years for using his powers to persuade humans into doing whatever he wants. His punishment is impotence. Zeus being the evil clever man he is finds a way around that in the form of a drug found on Earth that helps a man get it up and he’s using Ryan’s bar to sell it to other gods who have been punished the same way. Ryan and the team join together to stop Zeus from dealing to his pervy “do what they want” friends and bring him in.
Ryan feels a connection to Leander from the start. Again, this could have been very cliché but it totally worked for me. The author builds the tension through the MCs resisting the attraction. The story alternates between Ryan and Leander’s POVs so you do get to know what they’re both thinking. Leander is surprised he’s attracted to a human this strongly. Ryan no longer does casual sex. Five years abstinence goes out the window when Leander sets his sites on Ryan.
This story was such a great read. There was tons of humor from the MCs and the secondary characters. The love story was super romantic without being too sickly sweet. Adorable I’d say if the sexual tension and sex wasn’t so hot. I was very happy with this story. I’d love more from this world. Gany needs to find his man!
August 21, 2014
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
So this is a fun little story that gives us a clever take on the world of gods and demigods. Tenino really does a great job here picking up some of the mythology we know and shaking it up. We get enough of the traditional legends to recognize the world building, but at the same time, she comes up with lots of clever and creative spins. The story is told with some humor and quirkiness, and I loved the bit of bickering and banter that comes from the gang of immortal law enforcers. Mythology is not an area where I am well versed, so for me I found the creative spin Tenino puts on it all to be quite a lot of fun. There is great world building, interesting characters, and some fun, irreverent humor about the world of the gods.
I liked both Ryan and Leander and enjoyed them together. I appreciated how the story balances the initial lust the guys feel for one another with Ryan’s reservations about getting involved in a meaningless hookup. And that despite his desire for Ryan, Leander is patient and very careful to not hurt Ryan. It makes their ultimate connection feel more hard earned and more realistic to Ryan’s personality. I do wish we got a bit more time really getting to know Leander and to see the guys building the connection that they have by the time they ultimately hook up. We really learn a lot about Ryan’s back story, but much less about Leander’s life and personality. We also see very little of them really interacting in a meaningful way, as must of the time they are really connecting with one another happens off page until they start sleeping together, by which point their feelings for one another are already established.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
So this is a fun little story that gives us a clever take on the world of gods and demigods. Tenino really does a great job here picking up some of the mythology we know and shaking it up. We get enough of the traditional legends to recognize the world building, but at the same time, she comes up with lots of clever and creative spins. The story is told with some humor and quirkiness, and I loved the bit of bickering and banter that comes from the gang of immortal law enforcers. Mythology is not an area where I am well versed, so for me I found the creative spin Tenino puts on it all to be quite a lot of fun. There is great world building, interesting characters, and some fun, irreverent humor about the world of the gods.
I liked both Ryan and Leander and enjoyed them together. I appreciated how the story balances the initial lust the guys feel for one another with Ryan’s reservations about getting involved in a meaningless hookup. And that despite his desire for Ryan, Leander is patient and very careful to not hurt Ryan. It makes their ultimate connection feel more hard earned and more realistic to Ryan’s personality. I do wish we got a bit more time really getting to know Leander and to see the guys building the connection that they have by the time they ultimately hook up. We really learn a lot about Ryan’s back story, but much less about Leander’s life and personality. We also see very little of them really interacting in a meaningful way, as must of the time they are really connecting with one another happens off page until they start sleeping together, by which point their feelings for one another are already established.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
August 24, 2014
The satyroi from the Immortal Moral Authority is chasing its latest ne'er-do-well God Zeus. They have been sent to Caulfield’s Roadhouse to make sure the God keeps his man bits behind closed zipper. Ryan just happens to be tied into the case a little more than anyone lets on. The satyroi know that Zeus has been at the bar to do his pantheon law breaking. The oracles that have sent them there have also given hints that there is more to be found at the bar than just Zeus and his lascivious scheming.
Ryan has had his share of heartaches. He knows the simplest way to avoid them is to not get involved. Leander of the eroté oozes sex appeal and a quick trip to lonesomeness. Ryan feels that he has nothing to offer the sexy demigod. His self-doubt leaves him believing he is nothing more than a one night good time.
Leander’s interest in Ryan has his curiosity piqued as to what is so special about this human. Leander has been with plenty of men, mortals and immortals. He knows there is something different about Ryan. He just doesn’t know enough about chasing humans to actually get more than ire from Ryan. One night of forgetting all inhibitions for both parties sheds some light on what neither of them ever saw coming.
Anne Tenino created a very fun tale with Horny. Ryan and Leander were fun to read while they danced around the attraction that would lead to the inevitable. The fellow satyroi were excellent additions to the tale. They kept the flirtiness entertaining and light. The pantheon governing techniques were interesting and allowed for the happily ever after to work out believably. This was just an all-around great read!
Ryan has had his share of heartaches. He knows the simplest way to avoid them is to not get involved. Leander of the eroté oozes sex appeal and a quick trip to lonesomeness. Ryan feels that he has nothing to offer the sexy demigod. His self-doubt leaves him believing he is nothing more than a one night good time.
Leander’s interest in Ryan has his curiosity piqued as to what is so special about this human. Leander has been with plenty of men, mortals and immortals. He knows there is something different about Ryan. He just doesn’t know enough about chasing humans to actually get more than ire from Ryan. One night of forgetting all inhibitions for both parties sheds some light on what neither of them ever saw coming.
Anne Tenino created a very fun tale with Horny. Ryan and Leander were fun to read while they danced around the attraction that would lead to the inevitable. The fellow satyroi were excellent additions to the tale. They kept the flirtiness entertaining and light. The pantheon governing techniques were interesting and allowed for the happily ever after to work out believably. This was just an all-around great read!
October 2, 2014
Ryan owns a bar in the middle of nowhere. One night a bunch of demigods shows up looking for Zeus. They set up a trap to catch him and stop him from selling erectile dysfunction potions. In the meantime a mysterious Oracular guides Ryan and Leander to become more than just a one-night stand and in fact shows Ryan that he may be more than just a barkeep.
**
Let me start by saying that in general I love Anne Tenino, have read most of her books and loved them. I started this story super psyched as a result. When I finished, I was left scratching my head.
The imagination is there. The characters are there. The plot is there. The execution… isn’t. I got confused by a lot and this is a short story.
I understood why Ryan was guarded and didn’t want to get involved with Leander, he was looking for permanence not a one-night-stand– but then when more of his history is revealed, it didn’t make sense, and his whole “too sensitive” thing never made sense.
Leander, who should have wanted that fast commitment and instant love, didn’t, and that didn’t make sense, given what we learn about his god house.
The other demigods’ characters were also a little confusing and I wasn’t sure there role in the story. They just muddied the water for me.
I think that this story would have come across better if the author had either edited it down more tightly, focusing on the main characters more, or elongated it to a full-length novel or long novella.
I give a 3.5 of 5 hearts because it was funny and sweet and I really liked the idea, but it didn’t quite live up to my expectations of what this author can do.
**
Let me start by saying that in general I love Anne Tenino, have read most of her books and loved them. I started this story super psyched as a result. When I finished, I was left scratching my head.
The imagination is there. The characters are there. The plot is there. The execution… isn’t. I got confused by a lot and this is a short story.
I understood why Ryan was guarded and didn’t want to get involved with Leander, he was looking for permanence not a one-night-stand– but then when more of his history is revealed, it didn’t make sense, and his whole “too sensitive” thing never made sense.
Leander, who should have wanted that fast commitment and instant love, didn’t, and that didn’t make sense, given what we learn about his god house.
The other demigods’ characters were also a little confusing and I wasn’t sure there role in the story. They just muddied the water for me.
I think that this story would have come across better if the author had either edited it down more tightly, focusing on the main characters more, or elongated it to a full-length novel or long novella.
I give a 3.5 of 5 hearts because it was funny and sweet and I really liked the idea, but it didn’t quite live up to my expectations of what this author can do.
March 15, 2015
This is a super cute little book.
Forget everything you learned about Greek mythology in lit or history class. Mt. Olympus exists on another plane and is as flat as a pita. The "gods" aren't really Gods but they do get off on being treated as gods and worshiped. Ryan is sweet but somewhat cautious tavern owner. His biggest fear until a demigod police force shows up is making a go of the tavern he bought from his grandpa.
Much like in the real word, Olympus runs on bureaucracy. Immortals such as Zeus are answerable to authority. Zeus has apparently been a bad boy. One of the punishments placed on the Gods is impotency. Zeus having been give such punishment is apparently still able to rise to the occasion. Enter a supernatural police force with Achilles (Axe) as its leader taxed with hunting down Zeus. The force believes the drug or spell is coming from Ryan's tavern.
Ryan is immediately attracted to Leander a winged horned member of the police force who is also Eros' son. Leander never has to work to attract human or immortal lovers until he encounters Ryan. Snaring Ryan becomes a challenge and Leander puts forth his best effort.
Horny is a clever entertaining book and a great way to spend a couple of hours.
Forget everything you learned about Greek mythology in lit or history class. Mt. Olympus exists on another plane and is as flat as a pita. The "gods" aren't really Gods but they do get off on being treated as gods and worshiped. Ryan is sweet but somewhat cautious tavern owner. His biggest fear until a demigod police force shows up is making a go of the tavern he bought from his grandpa.
Much like in the real word, Olympus runs on bureaucracy. Immortals such as Zeus are answerable to authority. Zeus has apparently been a bad boy. One of the punishments placed on the Gods is impotency. Zeus having been give such punishment is apparently still able to rise to the occasion. Enter a supernatural police force with Achilles (Axe) as its leader taxed with hunting down Zeus. The force believes the drug or spell is coming from Ryan's tavern.
Ryan is immediately attracted to Leander a winged horned member of the police force who is also Eros' son. Leander never has to work to attract human or immortal lovers until he encounters Ryan. Snaring Ryan becomes a challenge and Leander puts forth his best effort.
Horny is a clever entertaining book and a great way to spend a couple of hours.
October 3, 2015
Really interesting premise and a tiny bit of kink. Loved what happened after the last sex scene--a great detail. As usual, Tenino has a nice, clear voice and professional grasp of her craft.
This novella wasn't really for me, though. It is a straight-up romance with all the tropes that bug me: extreme insecurity, bad communication, stupid assumptions, and the standard romance threesome: him, him, and The Relationship. I can only take so much of that and I'm now full. But for lovers of standard MM romance, this is definitely not a negative.
This novella wasn't really for me, though. It is a straight-up romance with all the tropes that bug me: extreme insecurity, bad communication, stupid assumptions, and the standard romance threesome: him, him, and The Relationship. I can only take so much of that and I'm now full. But for lovers of standard MM romance, this is definitely not a negative.
April 25, 2015
DNFd at 20%
September 22, 2014
Rating 4.25
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