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Unconventional Anthologies #4
Unconventional in San Diego
Unconventional in San Diego by Carol Lynne, Amber Kell, T.A. Chase, Jambrea Jo Jones and Devon Rhodes
‘Fate’s Bridge’ by Carol Lynne
Is it possible for a soul to be reborn inside another?
‘Coming in Third’ by Amber Kell
Love sometimes comes in threes.
‘The Unicorn Said Yes’ by T.A. Chase
When an innocent human virgin meets the king of the unicorn herd, it’s not just legends that come true.
‘Blood on the Moon’ by Jambrea Jo Jones
Be careful what you wish for, especially when you’re a witch.
‘A Sliver of Sunset’ by Devon Rhodes
From one-night stand to nurse and patient—is it crazy to expect more?
198 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 11, 2015
6 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
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Carol Lynne
251 books1,197 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
November 20, 2015
3.5 Stars averaged out. This was a fun set of stories that I really liked.
Fate’s Bridge by Carol Lynne – 2.5 Hearts
My overall feeling on this one was a resounding “meh”. There was a lot of telling and not a lot of showing. Roman is in love with his soulmate Julian who passed away many moons ago and his bro-vamp Alexi tells him that Julian has been reborn in the bod of Bodi who has come into Unconventional where Alexi tends bar. Roman loiters in the hopes of seeing him but Bodi doesn’t return. Shenanigans go down and Alexia and Roman have to come together to save Bodi from a random, rogue vamp attack. Bodi gets turned into a vampire in the process and his reaction is, “S’cool bro”. Apparently being turned makes the turners and the turnee bone like their dicks are going to be confiscated tomorrow so they gotta make the most of tonight. Rather than fill the story with actual story the conflict was glossed over with the “meh” and the “S’cool bro” so that the uncontrollable boning could continue. Along the way they fell in love, not sure where it happened, but I knew it because the book told me, but I couldn’t tell you how or why so I wasn’t feeling it.
Coming in Third by Amber Kell – 4 Hearts
This was a fun fairytale flavored menage/shifter story. The author is kind enough to give us two alpha-type lion shifters (Jovan and Luka) and a fae third (Niall) who is looking to fulfill a fantasy of a menage before he has to fulfill his duty with an arranged marriage. The characters were charming and I liked that Niall was no pushover. He may not have been a big bad ass physically, but he was tough, loyal and knew how to get what he wanted. Jovan and Luka had very different personalities and reading about how they fared after Niall left was really quite sweet. Niall was their third and the whole “mate” and “mine” thing worked because they acknowledged the physical but didn’t throw down the eternal love card like a lot of shifter stories do. That’s where stories lose me, I buy the lust, not the love, but am very open to the characters heading that direction. I want the journey and when I don’t get it I feel cheated. For a short story this was paced really well. I didn’t have to read declarations of undying love to know that it would come eventually.
The Unicorn Said Yes by T.A. Chase – 3 Hearts
I was super excited to read this one for obvious reasons. I mean the dude is a unicorn shifter FFS. It was a sweet story too and I liked how the author used the unicorn/virgin legend to get these guys their story. It gave the whole shifter thing a unique, yet classic, spin that totally worked. I liked both Ivan and Carney even though Carney felt a little off to me at times and I had trouble getting a grip on his character. He read as cliché sometimes but there were glimpses of depth at others and I think the length of the story may have been a little short for me to fully connect with him. The ending wrapped up too quickly and again I think it was just a lot of story and back story for the overall length. I wouldn’t want anything taken out though so maybe just more in general? I see that as a win.
Blood on the Moon by Jambrea Jo Jones - 4 Hearts
I liked this one a lot. We meet Montague Ramey briefly in The Unicorn Said Yes and in Blood on the Moon we get his story. Montague, do NOT call him Monty, is a somewhat unconventional witch. His coven isn’t what you would expect. Montague was adopted and didn’t even know he was a witch until he hit puberty. His parents were awesome and moved the family to an area with a coven that could help teach Montague the ways of the witch-folk. He meets/rescues Kishar on the night of a blood moon which are typically harbingers of all manner of bad things to Montague. Kishar is a good-guy incubus who refuses to hurt the people he needs to feed from but comes from a family of bad-guy incubuseseses, incubi, whatever. They are assholes and that’s what we need to focus on. Kishar and Montague are great together and the mission they embark on to save the coven is paced and balanced well. It’s an insta love/lust/meant to be story but the author pulled it all together well because the characters were likable and I wanted them to get their HEA.
A Sliver of Sunset by Devon Rhodes – 4 Hearts
This was a completely different take on the shifter story and I really, really liked it. Angelo and Dominic have a HAWT (HAWT is much hotter than your regular run-of-the-mill hot) one night stand. They really shouldn’t have even met, but Angelo is taking inhibitors to suppress his shifter side and can’t ‘see’ Unconventional, the paranormal bar where he was originally headed. And of course, what should have been kinda sad ended up being the best thing ever. We don’t know that yet, we have to read the story of Angelo and Domenic and myself? I enjoyed every word. I liked how the story was about a completely different kind of battle than what we usually read about. There were no packs vs. covens or ancient wrongs being righted. This was a story about a man fighting for his life and there is no logical reason for Angelo to even be ill. But he has leukemia and Dominic is there for him every step of the way. It read like an extended meet/cute in that these guys got to know each other as Angelo struggled. Oh sure, they boned at the beginning, but that was a tease-y little nugget that stayed in the back of my mind because I knew all along how HAWT they could be together and made me anxious to read about how it would all play out.
Fate’s Bridge by Carol Lynne – 2.5 Hearts
My overall feeling on this one was a resounding “meh”. There was a lot of telling and not a lot of showing. Roman is in love with his soulmate Julian who passed away many moons ago and his bro-vamp Alexi tells him that Julian has been reborn in the bod of Bodi who has come into Unconventional where Alexi tends bar. Roman loiters in the hopes of seeing him but Bodi doesn’t return. Shenanigans go down and Alexia and Roman have to come together to save Bodi from a random, rogue vamp attack. Bodi gets turned into a vampire in the process and his reaction is, “S’cool bro”. Apparently being turned makes the turners and the turnee bone like their dicks are going to be confiscated tomorrow so they gotta make the most of tonight. Rather than fill the story with actual story the conflict was glossed over with the “meh” and the “S’cool bro” so that the uncontrollable boning could continue. Along the way they fell in love, not sure where it happened, but I knew it because the book told me, but I couldn’t tell you how or why so I wasn’t feeling it.
Coming in Third by Amber Kell – 4 Hearts
This was a fun fairytale flavored menage/shifter story. The author is kind enough to give us two alpha-type lion shifters (Jovan and Luka) and a fae third (Niall) who is looking to fulfill a fantasy of a menage before he has to fulfill his duty with an arranged marriage. The characters were charming and I liked that Niall was no pushover. He may not have been a big bad ass physically, but he was tough, loyal and knew how to get what he wanted. Jovan and Luka had very different personalities and reading about how they fared after Niall left was really quite sweet. Niall was their third and the whole “mate” and “mine” thing worked because they acknowledged the physical but didn’t throw down the eternal love card like a lot of shifter stories do. That’s where stories lose me, I buy the lust, not the love, but am very open to the characters heading that direction. I want the journey and when I don’t get it I feel cheated. For a short story this was paced really well. I didn’t have to read declarations of undying love to know that it would come eventually.
The Unicorn Said Yes by T.A. Chase – 3 Hearts
I was super excited to read this one for obvious reasons. I mean the dude is a unicorn shifter FFS. It was a sweet story too and I liked how the author used the unicorn/virgin legend to get these guys their story. It gave the whole shifter thing a unique, yet classic, spin that totally worked. I liked both Ivan and Carney even though Carney felt a little off to me at times and I had trouble getting a grip on his character. He read as cliché sometimes but there were glimpses of depth at others and I think the length of the story may have been a little short for me to fully connect with him. The ending wrapped up too quickly and again I think it was just a lot of story and back story for the overall length. I wouldn’t want anything taken out though so maybe just more in general? I see that as a win.
Blood on the Moon by Jambrea Jo Jones - 4 Hearts
I liked this one a lot. We meet Montague Ramey briefly in The Unicorn Said Yes and in Blood on the Moon we get his story. Montague, do NOT call him Monty, is a somewhat unconventional witch. His coven isn’t what you would expect. Montague was adopted and didn’t even know he was a witch until he hit puberty. His parents were awesome and moved the family to an area with a coven that could help teach Montague the ways of the witch-folk. He meets/rescues Kishar on the night of a blood moon which are typically harbingers of all manner of bad things to Montague. Kishar is a good-guy incubus who refuses to hurt the people he needs to feed from but comes from a family of bad-guy incubuseseses, incubi, whatever. They are assholes and that’s what we need to focus on. Kishar and Montague are great together and the mission they embark on to save the coven is paced and balanced well. It’s an insta love/lust/meant to be story but the author pulled it all together well because the characters were likable and I wanted them to get their HEA.
A Sliver of Sunset by Devon Rhodes – 4 Hearts
This was a completely different take on the shifter story and I really, really liked it. Angelo and Dominic have a HAWT (HAWT is much hotter than your regular run-of-the-mill hot) one night stand. They really shouldn’t have even met, but Angelo is taking inhibitors to suppress his shifter side and can’t ‘see’ Unconventional, the paranormal bar where he was originally headed. And of course, what should have been kinda sad ended up being the best thing ever. We don’t know that yet, we have to read the story of Angelo and Domenic and myself? I enjoyed every word. I liked how the story was about a completely different kind of battle than what we usually read about. There were no packs vs. covens or ancient wrongs being righted. This was a story about a man fighting for his life and there is no logical reason for Angelo to even be ill. But he has leukemia and Dominic is there for him every step of the way. It read like an extended meet/cute in that these guys got to know each other as Angelo struggled. Oh sure, they boned at the beginning, but that was a tease-y little nugget that stayed in the back of my mind because I knew all along how HAWT they could be together and made me anxious to read about how it would all play out.
September 26, 2015
This anthology features stories by Carol Lynne, Amber Kell, TA Chase, Jambrea Jo Jones, and Devon Rhodes; the stories are tied together by a common setting, a paranormal club/bar in San Diego named Unconventional.
Fate’s Bridge by Carol Lynne - 2.75 stars
Vampire Roman Gschwind discovers the soul of his lost love inside the body of another. Having promised not to turn his love, he has no choice but to allow his brother Alexi to do so in order to save his life. But now he must decide if he’s willing to share his love with another vampire in order to rekindle what he lost?
This one started well, but quickly became disjointed for me. This story has quite a lot of M/M/M sex and very little buildup of sexual tension beforehand, which made it a bit flat for me. There wasn’t a lot of character development, especially of Alexi, and that combined with lower levels of UST than I prefer kept me from forming a connection to the characters. Reincarnation is an interesting theme, so I was looking forward to that aspect. Julian and Roman’s story was touching, and the ending gave it such a bittersweet twist that it made me teary. But I think the story suffered because of length and moving too fast, especially at the beginning.
Coming in Third by Amber Kell – 3.5 stars
Niall is a fae prince who’s fifth in line for the throne, and his mother wants him wed. When Niall sneaks out of the palace to fulfill a fantasy of having two men, he winds up at Unconventional faced with a pair of lion shifters looking to spice up their love life. After a night with him, Jovan and Luka’s shifter instincts tell them the innocent fae could be their long sought mate—the one fated to be theirs. But Niall’s guards cart him back to the palace and a possible arranged marriage. Will the shifters go after him or let it be the one-night stand Niall had offered?
For those who might be bothered by it, be aware that this one has some abuse (past/off page) both from Niall's domineering, controlling mother and the guards who string him up and whip him at his mother’s instructions. Niall is a magical fae, but the bindings his guards use strip away his magic. This is a case of an established couple bringing in a third who had been searching for exactly such a situation, hence no jealousy or angst. I loved that Niall glowed when sated, and that despite being small, he was strong both physically and mentally (the former because of his magic). A cute story with some interesting world details and a satisfying ending. Some humor in this one. Also some rather unusual metaphor use, some of which worked for me and others which totally didn’t.
The Unicorn Said Yes by T.A. Chase – 3 stars
Ivan Brusilov, king of the unicorns, goes to Unconventional for a drink and meets Carney Ferguson—a twenty-five year old human virgin. Turns out that innocence, and hence virgins, are irresistible to unicorns! But there are darker forces at work and neither Ivan nor Carney are safe and things are not as they seem.
This was cute at first but got to be confusing at parts. There was an awful lot of telling vs showing and some repetitiveness. I found it strange that they were both so into the Kinsey scale enough to have known their exact number ratings. I enjoyed Carney’s brother Jordan quite a bit. Many things about the way the story as a whole was told didn’t work so well for me, but the premise was quite unique and interesting and the tension and intrigue in the latter half was well done.
Blood on the Moon by Jambrea Jo Jones – 3.75 stars
Montague Ramey is a witch seeking excitment in his boring everyday life. Then came the night the moon turned red and his life changed. Kishar Nichelson’s is an incubus whose motorcycle ended up in a ditch on the road at midnight under the red moon and then stalled out on him. Someone’s after him, but he can’t remember what happened exactly and he’s weak from lack of sex that its hard for him to think. Can a witch and an incubus find love and solve a mystery on the night of the blood moon?
Montague is a rather sad, mousy man at the start of this story, and not really very appealing. Starts with lots of telling vs showing, but I liked how it tied in some characters from prior stories. There was a contradiction that bothered me and took me out of the story early on--him wishing out loud for something exciting to happen in one sentence and cowering from having even said it out loud in the next. Huh? BUT...
Kishar, on the other hand, was quite interesting from the start. An incubus who chooses to feed his need for sex with other paranormals rather than harm the delicate, fragile humans. And once the two are together, it starts to work for me. The head-hopping made it a bit hard to follow at parts, but I enjoyed seeing both characters grow and change once they found each other. Overall, it was a bit playful with some nice action and a sweet HEA.
A Sliver of Sunset by Devon Rhodes – 4.5 stars
Angelo is the only paranormal known to ever have leukemia, and the doctors are mystified as to the cause. To cure himself, he must repress his shifter side with a chemical inhibitor so he can go through chemotherapy as a human. Dominic hooked up with hottest guy and spent a night having the best sex ever, but wakes to find his lover gone. A week later, he meet a new oncology patient to find the same man fighting for his life and dependent upon his care.
This is by far my favorite story in this anthology. Angelo intrigued me from when I read about him in one of the earlier stories, and I hoped we’d get more about him. Glad I was right. More than any of the other stories, this one gave a sense of being set in San Diego (where I lived for some years in the past). This anchor story of the collection also did an excellent job of tying all the stories together.
I won’t give away exactly what sort of paranormal Angelo is, since that’s a fun part of the story to learn as you go. I don’t usually like to read stories in which one of the MC has cancer (or any possibly fatal disease), but this was an exception. This is well-written, well-paced and all-around enjoyable read.
--
The cover is lovely but it didn't tie in for the paranormal element at all for me... from the cover, I'd have thought this was contemporary.
Fate’s Bridge by Carol Lynne - 2.75 stars
Vampire Roman Gschwind discovers the soul of his lost love inside the body of another. Having promised not to turn his love, he has no choice but to allow his brother Alexi to do so in order to save his life. But now he must decide if he’s willing to share his love with another vampire in order to rekindle what he lost?
This one started well, but quickly became disjointed for me. This story has quite a lot of M/M/M sex and very little buildup of sexual tension beforehand, which made it a bit flat for me. There wasn’t a lot of character development, especially of Alexi, and that combined with lower levels of UST than I prefer kept me from forming a connection to the characters. Reincarnation is an interesting theme, so I was looking forward to that aspect. Julian and Roman’s story was touching, and the ending gave it such a bittersweet twist that it made me teary. But I think the story suffered because of length and moving too fast, especially at the beginning.
Coming in Third by Amber Kell – 3.5 stars
Niall is a fae prince who’s fifth in line for the throne, and his mother wants him wed. When Niall sneaks out of the palace to fulfill a fantasy of having two men, he winds up at Unconventional faced with a pair of lion shifters looking to spice up their love life. After a night with him, Jovan and Luka’s shifter instincts tell them the innocent fae could be their long sought mate—the one fated to be theirs. But Niall’s guards cart him back to the palace and a possible arranged marriage. Will the shifters go after him or let it be the one-night stand Niall had offered?
For those who might be bothered by it, be aware that this one has some abuse (past/off page) both from Niall's domineering, controlling mother and the guards who string him up and whip him at his mother’s instructions. Niall is a magical fae, but the bindings his guards use strip away his magic. This is a case of an established couple bringing in a third who had been searching for exactly such a situation, hence no jealousy or angst. I loved that Niall glowed when sated, and that despite being small, he was strong both physically and mentally (the former because of his magic). A cute story with some interesting world details and a satisfying ending. Some humor in this one. Also some rather unusual metaphor use, some of which worked for me and others which totally didn’t.
The Unicorn Said Yes by T.A. Chase – 3 stars
Ivan Brusilov, king of the unicorns, goes to Unconventional for a drink and meets Carney Ferguson—a twenty-five year old human virgin. Turns out that innocence, and hence virgins, are irresistible to unicorns! But there are darker forces at work and neither Ivan nor Carney are safe and things are not as they seem.
This was cute at first but got to be confusing at parts. There was an awful lot of telling vs showing and some repetitiveness. I found it strange that they were both so into the Kinsey scale enough to have known their exact number ratings. I enjoyed Carney’s brother Jordan quite a bit. Many things about the way the story as a whole was told didn’t work so well for me, but the premise was quite unique and interesting and the tension and intrigue in the latter half was well done.
Blood on the Moon by Jambrea Jo Jones – 3.75 stars
Montague Ramey is a witch seeking excitment in his boring everyday life. Then came the night the moon turned red and his life changed. Kishar Nichelson’s is an incubus whose motorcycle ended up in a ditch on the road at midnight under the red moon and then stalled out on him. Someone’s after him, but he can’t remember what happened exactly and he’s weak from lack of sex that its hard for him to think. Can a witch and an incubus find love and solve a mystery on the night of the blood moon?
Montague is a rather sad, mousy man at the start of this story, and not really very appealing. Starts with lots of telling vs showing, but I liked how it tied in some characters from prior stories. There was a contradiction that bothered me and took me out of the story early on--him wishing out loud for something exciting to happen in one sentence and cowering from having even said it out loud in the next. Huh? BUT...
Kishar, on the other hand, was quite interesting from the start. An incubus who chooses to feed his need for sex with other paranormals rather than harm the delicate, fragile humans. And once the two are together, it starts to work for me. The head-hopping made it a bit hard to follow at parts, but I enjoyed seeing both characters grow and change once they found each other. Overall, it was a bit playful with some nice action and a sweet HEA.
A Sliver of Sunset by Devon Rhodes – 4.5 stars
Angelo is the only paranormal known to ever have leukemia, and the doctors are mystified as to the cause. To cure himself, he must repress his shifter side with a chemical inhibitor so he can go through chemotherapy as a human. Dominic hooked up with hottest guy and spent a night having the best sex ever, but wakes to find his lover gone. A week later, he meet a new oncology patient to find the same man fighting for his life and dependent upon his care.
This is by far my favorite story in this anthology. Angelo intrigued me from when I read about him in one of the earlier stories, and I hoped we’d get more about him. Glad I was right. More than any of the other stories, this one gave a sense of being set in San Diego (where I lived for some years in the past). This anchor story of the collection also did an excellent job of tying all the stories together.
I won’t give away exactly what sort of paranormal Angelo is, since that’s a fun part of the story to learn as you go. I don’t usually like to read stories in which one of the MC has cancer (or any possibly fatal disease), but this was an exception. This is well-written, well-paced and all-around enjoyable read.
--
The cover is lovely but it didn't tie in for the paranormal element at all for me... from the cover, I'd have thought this was contemporary.
July 18, 2015
ARC of Unconventional in San Diego provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This review has been cross-posted at Reviews by Jessewave.
3.3 Stars
Unconventional in San Diego is a collection of paranormal stories that take place in and around a paranormal bar in San Diego, called "Unconventional". Sounds fun, yeah? I'd go there, for sure! And while all the stories in this anthology were not to my liking, I do like getting the variety of authors, some of whom I had never read before. The only story that didn't feel like "insta-love" was A Sliver of Sunset, by Devon Rhodes. And that one was my favorite of the bunch.
As is often the case with anthologies, this was a bit of a mixed bag. But, even the stories I didn't particularly care for, I did find some enjoyment in. Mostly those just felt too rushed, so I didn't like them as much. Devon Rhodes and Amber Kell wrote my favorites in this collection and I will definitely seek out more by both of those authors.
Fate's Bridge, by Carol Lynne - 2.5 Stars
I liked the concept of the story, a lot, but the execution wasn't as interesting as I had hoped. I didn't really feel for any of the characters. Roman Gschwind, a vampire, is in San Diego looking for the man that is the reincarnated soul of his former human lover, Julian. We meet the characters and basically jump into sex, which was, unfortunately, not that interesting. And Alexi's role in the story felt rather contrived. This story might work better with a longer format, so that character and world building could happen more easily.
Coming in Third, by Amber Kell - 4 Stars
I loved this short story! Niall is fae and he wants to live a little. His mother is an evil bitch of a fae with political ambitions and is set on marrying Niall off to someone that could help her gain power. She's abusive and all around an awful awful person.
After overhearing a conversation between his mother and uncle, Niall decides that tonight is the night his fantasy of a ménage will happen, at last. Niall sets off for the paranormal bar, "Unconventional", to see if he can find a suitable couple. And, boy, does he!
Luka and Jovan are both lion shifters. They've been together for twenty years and have been looking for a permanent third - their mate - for ages. One sniff of Niall and they know they have found their destiny.
There's only one sex scene in this short story, and it is hot! And I rather liked the ending, which I, of course, won't talk about here.
The Unicorn Said Yes, by TA Chase - 3 Stars
Cute story about a unicorn shifter finding a 25 year old virgin when he went to "Unconventional" for a drink. And virgins are irresistable to unicorns, so Ivan is totally Mr. Wanty with Carney. I found the story to be quite enjoyable and fun, but Carney was a bit "too" innocent and the conflict was way over the top.
Blood on the Moon, by Jambrea Jo Jones - 2.75 Stars
My second to least favorite story in this anthology. Witch paranormal isn't all that interesting to me, apparently, but more than that the story felt like it happened too quickly with too little background. I mean, one moment Kishar is passed out in Montague's entry way and the next, they are having sex. It just didn't feel organic. After the impossibly insta encounter, I warmed up to the story and ended up liking it more than I thought I would. The big-bad was eye-rollingly over the top, but lessons were learned and we do get our happy ending.
A Sliver of Sunset, by Devon Rhodes - 4.5 Stars
The best was saved for last! A Sliver of Sunset was my favorite story in this anthology. I loved the build up from 'hey, I think you're hot, lets fuck' to 'you're my mate'. Angelo is a shifter who has cancer. Illnesses like that are pretty much unheard of in shifters, so he is pretty well blindsided by the diagnosis. Right before starting treatment, Angelo meets Dominic and they have a very hot one night stand. But, of course, Angelo cannot pursue a relationship right now because of his treatment. But the fates won't let a little thing like cancer to stand in the way of true love.
This story did not have a 'short story' feel at all. We get to know the characters and I felt their bond. It was beautiful. I would love to see this story continued or expanded. I want more Angelo and Dominic!
3.3 Stars
Unconventional in San Diego is a collection of paranormal stories that take place in and around a paranormal bar in San Diego, called "Unconventional". Sounds fun, yeah? I'd go there, for sure! And while all the stories in this anthology were not to my liking, I do like getting the variety of authors, some of whom I had never read before. The only story that didn't feel like "insta-love" was A Sliver of Sunset, by Devon Rhodes. And that one was my favorite of the bunch.
As is often the case with anthologies, this was a bit of a mixed bag. But, even the stories I didn't particularly care for, I did find some enjoyment in. Mostly those just felt too rushed, so I didn't like them as much. Devon Rhodes and Amber Kell wrote my favorites in this collection and I will definitely seek out more by both of those authors.
Fate's Bridge, by Carol Lynne - 2.5 Stars
I liked the concept of the story, a lot, but the execution wasn't as interesting as I had hoped. I didn't really feel for any of the characters. Roman Gschwind, a vampire, is in San Diego looking for the man that is the reincarnated soul of his former human lover, Julian. We meet the characters and basically jump into sex, which was, unfortunately, not that interesting. And Alexi's role in the story felt rather contrived. This story might work better with a longer format, so that character and world building could happen more easily.
Coming in Third, by Amber Kell - 4 Stars
I loved this short story! Niall is fae and he wants to live a little. His mother is an evil bitch of a fae with political ambitions and is set on marrying Niall off to someone that could help her gain power. She's abusive and all around an awful awful person.
After overhearing a conversation between his mother and uncle, Niall decides that tonight is the night his fantasy of a ménage will happen, at last. Niall sets off for the paranormal bar, "Unconventional", to see if he can find a suitable couple. And, boy, does he!
Luka and Jovan are both lion shifters. They've been together for twenty years and have been looking for a permanent third - their mate - for ages. One sniff of Niall and they know they have found their destiny.
There's only one sex scene in this short story, and it is hot! And I rather liked the ending, which I, of course, won't talk about here.
The Unicorn Said Yes, by TA Chase - 3 Stars
Cute story about a unicorn shifter finding a 25 year old virgin when he went to "Unconventional" for a drink. And virgins are irresistable to unicorns, so Ivan is totally Mr. Wanty with Carney. I found the story to be quite enjoyable and fun, but Carney was a bit "too" innocent and the conflict was way over the top.
Blood on the Moon, by Jambrea Jo Jones - 2.75 Stars
My second to least favorite story in this anthology. Witch paranormal isn't all that interesting to me, apparently, but more than that the story felt like it happened too quickly with too little background. I mean, one moment Kishar is passed out in Montague's entry way and the next, they are having sex. It just didn't feel organic. After the impossibly insta encounter, I warmed up to the story and ended up liking it more than I thought I would. The big-bad was eye-rollingly over the top, but lessons were learned and we do get our happy ending.
A Sliver of Sunset, by Devon Rhodes - 4.5 Stars
The best was saved for last! A Sliver of Sunset was my favorite story in this anthology. I loved the build up from 'hey, I think you're hot, lets fuck' to 'you're my mate'. Angelo is a shifter who has cancer. Illnesses like that are pretty much unheard of in shifters, so he is pretty well blindsided by the diagnosis. Right before starting treatment, Angelo meets Dominic and they have a very hot one night stand. But, of course, Angelo cannot pursue a relationship right now because of his treatment. But the fates won't let a little thing like cancer to stand in the way of true love.
This story did not have a 'short story' feel at all. We get to know the characters and I felt their bond. It was beautiful. I would love to see this story continued or expanded. I want more Angelo and Dominic!
March 1, 2019
Ummmmm just couldn’t make myself care about anyone.
July 13, 2015
Unconventional in San Diego
by Carol Lynne , Amber Kell, TA Chase, Jambrea Jo Jones, Devon Rhodes 4 stars overall, but each individually given stars too.
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.M/M and M/M/M paranormal
‘Fate’s Bridge’ by Carol Lynne - 4 stars
This was a somewhat disjointed story for me. I enjoyed the previous history about Roman and his true love, Julian. It was such a heartbreaking end to their love. However, the fact that Roman has held out hope and love for Julian for all of these years is so sweet. Alexi is another character, Roman's brother, whom I felt was a decent character. He was not all that well developed, however, you could feel the attraction and love that he felt towards his brother.
The heat between Alexi and Bodi was palpable. Hot with a capital H! And, despite that heat and attraction, Alexi was still able to appreciate what Roman and Bodi might create, simply because Alexi knew that Julian's soul was inside of Bodi.
The relationship is not an easy one, but over time, they are able to manage their way through. It was a touching story in that the reader was never quite sure if Julian and Bodi were one in the same or separate. This story did not disappoint and despite it's short length, was a sweet, hot read.
‘Coming in Third’ by Amber Kell - 5 stars
I loved this story. I believe that it was among my favorite in this anthology. It had mystery, disaster, loyalty and love all wrapped in a hot, growly package.
I really enjoyed how Jovan and Luka had to temper themselves around Niall. And, despite Niall's horrible life, he was able to enjoy those two, however briefly.
I wanted to do bodily harm to Niall's mother and was so happy when she was put in her place by Niall.
The chemistry among the three of them was seriously hot and the ending was even better. I would have loved to have this story continue, to see where their lives went from there.
‘The Unicorn Said Yes’ by T.A. Chase - 3.5 stars
I am normally a huge TA Chase fan, but this story just didn't do it for me. I liked where the premise was going, but it just didn't really deliver for me. I think the story was more about the hunters rather than the relationship between Carney and Ivan.
Also, you hear all about Ivan's family, but only get to hear about Carney's family after stuff goes terribly wrong - right in the middle of the major climax of the story.
I think it was just too rushed of a story for me. And, despite Carney and his awesome brother's heroism, it was just not a complete story for me either.
‘Blood on the Moon’ by Jambrea Jo Jones - 4.5
Montague is kind of sad. While I liked his character in that he had a great family and support system, he was just a lonely, sad man. Then there was Kishar. An Incubus who was not only hot, but had a good nature. I really liked how they met. And, that when Montague was wishing for some excitement, that's exactly what he got.
I really enjoyed the coven and how supportive they were. I also liked the paranormal witch and Incubus combination. It was electric and hot, but above all, it was healing for both.
I liked how Kishar was willing to stand up and be different for Montague and I really liked how Montague was able to show Kishar that he was not the monster that he perceived himself to be. It was a good story that did not leave me wanting in the end.
‘A Sliver of Sunset’ by Devon Rhodes - 4 stars
I loved Angelo from the previous story, but I really loved him in his own. I was so sad to see that he was suffering and loved that the universe stepped in to help him.
Dominic was a sweet, honest caring nurse who had an instant connection with Angelo. I liked that he was able to develop a relationship rather than just build on the night of hot sweaty sex. I think that it was helpful that he was able to know about Angelo's entire existence without panicking or gaining disapproving marks from Angelo's sister.
In the end, I was disappointed about the mystery - was the other shifter cured? Did they figure it out? I would have given 5 stars, except for that issue.
by Carol Lynne , Amber Kell, TA Chase, Jambrea Jo Jones, Devon Rhodes 4 stars overall, but each individually given stars too.
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.M/M and M/M/M paranormal
‘Fate’s Bridge’ by Carol Lynne - 4 stars
This was a somewhat disjointed story for me. I enjoyed the previous history about Roman and his true love, Julian. It was such a heartbreaking end to their love. However, the fact that Roman has held out hope and love for Julian for all of these years is so sweet. Alexi is another character, Roman's brother, whom I felt was a decent character. He was not all that well developed, however, you could feel the attraction and love that he felt towards his brother.
The heat between Alexi and Bodi was palpable. Hot with a capital H! And, despite that heat and attraction, Alexi was still able to appreciate what Roman and Bodi might create, simply because Alexi knew that Julian's soul was inside of Bodi.
The relationship is not an easy one, but over time, they are able to manage their way through. It was a touching story in that the reader was never quite sure if Julian and Bodi were one in the same or separate. This story did not disappoint and despite it's short length, was a sweet, hot read.
‘Coming in Third’ by Amber Kell - 5 stars
I loved this story. I believe that it was among my favorite in this anthology. It had mystery, disaster, loyalty and love all wrapped in a hot, growly package.
I really enjoyed how Jovan and Luka had to temper themselves around Niall. And, despite Niall's horrible life, he was able to enjoy those two, however briefly.
I wanted to do bodily harm to Niall's mother and was so happy when she was put in her place by Niall.
The chemistry among the three of them was seriously hot and the ending was even better. I would have loved to have this story continue, to see where their lives went from there.
‘The Unicorn Said Yes’ by T.A. Chase - 3.5 stars
I am normally a huge TA Chase fan, but this story just didn't do it for me. I liked where the premise was going, but it just didn't really deliver for me. I think the story was more about the hunters rather than the relationship between Carney and Ivan.
Also, you hear all about Ivan's family, but only get to hear about Carney's family after stuff goes terribly wrong - right in the middle of the major climax of the story.
I think it was just too rushed of a story for me. And, despite Carney and his awesome brother's heroism, it was just not a complete story for me either.
‘Blood on the Moon’ by Jambrea Jo Jones - 4.5
Montague is kind of sad. While I liked his character in that he had a great family and support system, he was just a lonely, sad man. Then there was Kishar. An Incubus who was not only hot, but had a good nature. I really liked how they met. And, that when Montague was wishing for some excitement, that's exactly what he got.
I really enjoyed the coven and how supportive they were. I also liked the paranormal witch and Incubus combination. It was electric and hot, but above all, it was healing for both.
I liked how Kishar was willing to stand up and be different for Montague and I really liked how Montague was able to show Kishar that he was not the monster that he perceived himself to be. It was a good story that did not leave me wanting in the end.
‘A Sliver of Sunset’ by Devon Rhodes - 4 stars
I loved Angelo from the previous story, but I really loved him in his own. I was so sad to see that he was suffering and loved that the universe stepped in to help him.
Dominic was a sweet, honest caring nurse who had an instant connection with Angelo. I liked that he was able to develop a relationship rather than just build on the night of hot sweaty sex. I think that it was helpful that he was able to know about Angelo's entire existence without panicking or gaining disapproving marks from Angelo's sister.
In the end, I was disappointed about the mystery - was the other shifter cured? Did they figure it out? I would have given 5 stars, except for that issue.
September 13, 2015
FourStars
4 stars overall, but each individually given stars too.
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
M/M and M/M/M paranormal
‘Fate’s Bridge’ by Carol Lynne - 4 stars
This was a somewhat disjointed story for me. I enjoyed the previous history about Roman and his true love, Julian. It was such a heartbreaking end to their love. However, the fact that Roman has held out hope and love for Julian for all of these years is so sweet. Alexi is another character, Roman's brother, whom I felt was a decent character. He was not all that well developed, however, you could feel the attraction and love that he felt towards his brother.
The heat between Alexi and Bodi was palpable. Hot with a capital H! And, despite that heat and attraction, Alexi was still able to appreciate what Roman and Bodi might create, simply because Alexi knew that Julian's soul was inside of Bodi.
The relationship is not an easy one, but over time, they are able to manage their way through. It was a touching story in that the reader was never quite sure if Julian and Bodi were one in the same or separate. This story did not disappoint and despite it's short length, was a sweet, hot read.
‘Coming in Third’ by Amber Kell - 5 stars
I loved this story. I believe that it was among my favorite in this anthology. It had mystery, disaster, loyalty and love all wrapped in a hot, growly package.
I really enjoyed how Jovan and Luka had to temper themselves around Niall. And, despite Niall's horrible life, he was able to enjoy those two, however briefly.
I wanted to do bodily harm to Niall's mother and was so happy when she was put in her place by Niall.
The chemistry among the three of them was seriously hot and the ending was even better. I would have loved to have this story continue, to see where their lives went from there.
‘The Unicorn Said Yes’ by T.A. Chase - 3.5 stars
I am normally a huge TA Chase fan, but this story just didn't do it for me. I liked where the premise was going, but it just didn't really deliver for me. I think the story was more about the hunters rather than the relationship between Carney and Ivan.
Also, you hear all about Ivan's family, but only get to hear about Carney's family after stuff goes terribly wrong - right in the middle of the major climax of the story.
I think it was just too rushed of a story for me. And, despite Carney and his awesome brother's heroism, it was just not a complete story for me either.
‘Blood on the Moon’ by Jambrea Jo Jones - 4.5
Montague is kind of sad. While I liked his character in that he had a great family and support system, he was just a lonely, sad man. Then there was Kishar. An Incubus who was not only hot, but had a good nature. I really liked how they met. And, that when Montague was wishing for some excitement, that's exactly what he got.
I really enjoyed the coven and how supportive they were. I also liked the paranormal witch and Incubus combination. It was electric and hot, but above all, it was healing for both.
I liked how Kishar was willing to stand up and be different for Montague and I really liked how Montague was able to show Kishar that he was not the monster that he perceived himself to be. It was a good story that did not leave me wanting in the end.
‘A Sliver of Sunset’ by Devon Rhodes - 4 stars
I loved Angelo from the previous story, but I really loved him in his own. I was so sad to see that he was suffering and loved that the universe stepped in to help him.
Dominic was a sweet, honest caring nurse who had an instant connection with Angelo. I liked that he was able to develop a relationship rather than just build on the night of hot sweaty sex. I think that it was helpful that he was able to know about Angelo's entire existence without panicking or gaining disapproving marks from Angelo's sister.
In the end, I was disappointed about the mystery - was the other shifter cured? Did they figure it out? I would have given 5 stars, except for that issue.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
AvidReader
4 stars overall, but each individually given stars too.
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
M/M and M/M/M paranormal
‘Fate’s Bridge’ by Carol Lynne - 4 stars
This was a somewhat disjointed story for me. I enjoyed the previous history about Roman and his true love, Julian. It was such a heartbreaking end to their love. However, the fact that Roman has held out hope and love for Julian for all of these years is so sweet. Alexi is another character, Roman's brother, whom I felt was a decent character. He was not all that well developed, however, you could feel the attraction and love that he felt towards his brother.
The heat between Alexi and Bodi was palpable. Hot with a capital H! And, despite that heat and attraction, Alexi was still able to appreciate what Roman and Bodi might create, simply because Alexi knew that Julian's soul was inside of Bodi.
The relationship is not an easy one, but over time, they are able to manage their way through. It was a touching story in that the reader was never quite sure if Julian and Bodi were one in the same or separate. This story did not disappoint and despite it's short length, was a sweet, hot read.
‘Coming in Third’ by Amber Kell - 5 stars
I loved this story. I believe that it was among my favorite in this anthology. It had mystery, disaster, loyalty and love all wrapped in a hot, growly package.
I really enjoyed how Jovan and Luka had to temper themselves around Niall. And, despite Niall's horrible life, he was able to enjoy those two, however briefly.
I wanted to do bodily harm to Niall's mother and was so happy when she was put in her place by Niall.
The chemistry among the three of them was seriously hot and the ending was even better. I would have loved to have this story continue, to see where their lives went from there.
‘The Unicorn Said Yes’ by T.A. Chase - 3.5 stars
I am normally a huge TA Chase fan, but this story just didn't do it for me. I liked where the premise was going, but it just didn't really deliver for me. I think the story was more about the hunters rather than the relationship between Carney and Ivan.
Also, you hear all about Ivan's family, but only get to hear about Carney's family after stuff goes terribly wrong - right in the middle of the major climax of the story.
I think it was just too rushed of a story for me. And, despite Carney and his awesome brother's heroism, it was just not a complete story for me either.
‘Blood on the Moon’ by Jambrea Jo Jones - 4.5
Montague is kind of sad. While I liked his character in that he had a great family and support system, he was just a lonely, sad man. Then there was Kishar. An Incubus who was not only hot, but had a good nature. I really liked how they met. And, that when Montague was wishing for some excitement, that's exactly what he got.
I really enjoyed the coven and how supportive they were. I also liked the paranormal witch and Incubus combination. It was electric and hot, but above all, it was healing for both.
I liked how Kishar was willing to stand up and be different for Montague and I really liked how Montague was able to show Kishar that he was not the monster that he perceived himself to be. It was a good story that did not leave me wanting in the end.
‘A Sliver of Sunset’ by Devon Rhodes - 4 stars
I loved Angelo from the previous story, but I really loved him in his own. I was so sad to see that he was suffering and loved that the universe stepped in to help him.
Dominic was a sweet, honest caring nurse who had an instant connection with Angelo. I liked that he was able to develop a relationship rather than just build on the night of hot sweaty sex. I think that it was helpful that he was able to know about Angelo's entire existence without panicking or gaining disapproving marks from Angelo's sister.
In the end, I was disappointed about the mystery - was the other shifter cured? Did they figure it out? I would have given 5 stars, except for that issue.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
AvidReader
September 9, 2015
‘Fate’s Bridge’ by Carol Lynne
In Fate’s Bridge, Roman, a vampire finds the man he loved two hundred years ago reborn in another’s body. From there on out, he makes mistakes. And those mistakes bothered me. There wasn’t much logic behind his mistake – at first there was, but as the story went on and I learned what was behind the original promise given, the reason no longer made sense. Plus, the ménage that grew seemed more forced than natural.
3 stars
‘Coming in Third’ by Amber Kell
Okay, I liked this story better than the first. It plotted well and the twists and turns made sense. And even the surprising ending was perfect. And it was in this story that I began to hope for Angel…who got his own story at the end of the anthology – YAY for Angel.
I would like to know more about the lion shifters, how they got together, etc, because they fascinated me and I found Niall the fae very likable. However, considering the abuse heaped on him by his mother for so many years, that man’s got therapy to spare coming.
4 stars
‘The Unicorn Said Yes’ by T.A. Chase
Okay, I loved this story. Maybe it was because the lead character was a unicorn – I’m willing to admit that. But Chase caught me good. I was half way through before I realized the author had not just pulled the wool over Ivan’s eyes but mine as well. Well done! And the ending actually made me worried that somehow these two would not get their HEA.
5 stars
‘Blood on the Moon’ by Jambrea Jo Jones
The writing was good, the story interesting, but there were certain ‘facts’ placed down that made little sense. For instance, Montague’s insistence on wearing certain clothes. I want to know why he was that way. What made him have to appear to be someone he wasn’t?
However, I LOVED that the story started off right after part of the previous story – it gave a wonderful sense of continuity to the set. Monty (yeah, he hates the nickname, but I couldn’t resist) was sweet and Kishar was wonderful – who knew an incubus could be such a good guy? I loved Monty’s coven and how the author painted them. It would have been so easy for Jones to paint them as angry after the crux of the plot took place, but the route taken instead was so much better.
4 stars
‘A Sliver of Sunset’ by Devon Rhodes
This is Angel’s story and it’s a bit heartbreaking. A paranormal who shouldn’t be sick diagnosed with an advanced form of leukemia was shocking enough without having to ‘see’ him go through treatment, especially right after meeting Dominic. I loved the way Rhodes handled their attachment. It happened even with Angel’s body not quite working right. I do wish we could have heard more about the water and about the other paranormal who came down with the same thing, but it was a short story. Plus, it dealt with a merman shifter…how cool is that?
4 stars
Reviewed by a-nony-mouse for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
In Fate’s Bridge, Roman, a vampire finds the man he loved two hundred years ago reborn in another’s body. From there on out, he makes mistakes. And those mistakes bothered me. There wasn’t much logic behind his mistake – at first there was, but as the story went on and I learned what was behind the original promise given, the reason no longer made sense. Plus, the ménage that grew seemed more forced than natural.
3 stars
‘Coming in Third’ by Amber Kell
Okay, I liked this story better than the first. It plotted well and the twists and turns made sense. And even the surprising ending was perfect. And it was in this story that I began to hope for Angel…who got his own story at the end of the anthology – YAY for Angel.
I would like to know more about the lion shifters, how they got together, etc, because they fascinated me and I found Niall the fae very likable. However, considering the abuse heaped on him by his mother for so many years, that man’s got therapy to spare coming.
4 stars
‘The Unicorn Said Yes’ by T.A. Chase
Okay, I loved this story. Maybe it was because the lead character was a unicorn – I’m willing to admit that. But Chase caught me good. I was half way through before I realized the author had not just pulled the wool over Ivan’s eyes but mine as well. Well done! And the ending actually made me worried that somehow these two would not get their HEA.
5 stars
‘Blood on the Moon’ by Jambrea Jo Jones
The writing was good, the story interesting, but there were certain ‘facts’ placed down that made little sense. For instance, Montague’s insistence on wearing certain clothes. I want to know why he was that way. What made him have to appear to be someone he wasn’t?
However, I LOVED that the story started off right after part of the previous story – it gave a wonderful sense of continuity to the set. Monty (yeah, he hates the nickname, but I couldn’t resist) was sweet and Kishar was wonderful – who knew an incubus could be such a good guy? I loved Monty’s coven and how the author painted them. It would have been so easy for Jones to paint them as angry after the crux of the plot took place, but the route taken instead was so much better.
4 stars
‘A Sliver of Sunset’ by Devon Rhodes
This is Angel’s story and it’s a bit heartbreaking. A paranormal who shouldn’t be sick diagnosed with an advanced form of leukemia was shocking enough without having to ‘see’ him go through treatment, especially right after meeting Dominic. I loved the way Rhodes handled their attachment. It happened even with Angel’s body not quite working right. I do wish we could have heard more about the water and about the other paranormal who came down with the same thing, but it was a short story. Plus, it dealt with a merman shifter…how cool is that?
4 stars
Reviewed by a-nony-mouse for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
July 26, 2015
3.5 out of 5 stars
When I saw this list of authors with “Unconventional” in the title I remembered a collection of books I read last year call Unconventional in Chicago. I loved that series of stories so automatically put this on my list.
Imagine my surprise when I discovered I was not reading a story in an alternate universe, but I was reading about a bar called Unconventional that catered to paranormal beings. Don’t get me wrong, this was a pleasant surprise. It just reinforces that these authors are rather “unconventional” in their writing and one should never expect the same type of story.
The bar called Unconventional was an interesting place. It gave this entertaining anthology common ground. Some of the characters knew each other from story to story, but that is really as far as they interacted. Otherwise, this was a fun collection of short stories that made rather nice bedtime reading. And yes, at 40 – 50 pages per story and with my current hectic schedule, that is how I read them. One a night, before bed.
Fate’s Bridge by Carol Lynne 4 stars – Reincarnation is such a fascinating subject to begin with. Add vampires to the mix and it makes for a most interesting story. I thoroughly enjoyed how these characters came together and found love.
Coming in Third by Amber Kell 4 stars – A run away Fea looking for some fun before being forced to marry. What a hot night he had! *fanning self* There was a bit of nail biting going on before these characters found their happy ending.
The Unicorn Said Yes by T.A. Chase 4 stars – This was rather a surprising story. Not just the unicorn part, but the guy, well the guys family really, he hooked up with. Some interesting twists made this a rather exciting story. One of the more complete stories in the book.
Blood on the Moon by Jambrea Jo Jones 3 stars – This was a rather fun story with a witch and an incubus. Again some interesting twists, but I felt they were a bit rushed to fit the word count. Mostly a satisfying story, but I would have liked to see it developed more.
A Sliver of Sunset by Devon Rhodes 3 stars – A shifter who gets sick? Raises some interesting questions. I would have liked to see them addressed, but they were left dangling. The romance was sweet though.
Overall this was a nice read. I did enjoy each story for its own merit, even the ones that I thought were only teases for more story. Next time I see this list of authors with “Unconventional” in the title, I will still grab it without reading the blurb. They are well worth the read no matter what they write.
I received an ARC copy of this title for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated in any way for this review. All conclusions are my own opinions and responsibility.
When I saw this list of authors with “Unconventional” in the title I remembered a collection of books I read last year call Unconventional in Chicago. I loved that series of stories so automatically put this on my list.
Imagine my surprise when I discovered I was not reading a story in an alternate universe, but I was reading about a bar called Unconventional that catered to paranormal beings. Don’t get me wrong, this was a pleasant surprise. It just reinforces that these authors are rather “unconventional” in their writing and one should never expect the same type of story.
The bar called Unconventional was an interesting place. It gave this entertaining anthology common ground. Some of the characters knew each other from story to story, but that is really as far as they interacted. Otherwise, this was a fun collection of short stories that made rather nice bedtime reading. And yes, at 40 – 50 pages per story and with my current hectic schedule, that is how I read them. One a night, before bed.
Fate’s Bridge by Carol Lynne 4 stars – Reincarnation is such a fascinating subject to begin with. Add vampires to the mix and it makes for a most interesting story. I thoroughly enjoyed how these characters came together and found love.
Coming in Third by Amber Kell 4 stars – A run away Fea looking for some fun before being forced to marry. What a hot night he had! *fanning self* There was a bit of nail biting going on before these characters found their happy ending.
The Unicorn Said Yes by T.A. Chase 4 stars – This was rather a surprising story. Not just the unicorn part, but the guy, well the guys family really, he hooked up with. Some interesting twists made this a rather exciting story. One of the more complete stories in the book.
Blood on the Moon by Jambrea Jo Jones 3 stars – This was a rather fun story with a witch and an incubus. Again some interesting twists, but I felt they were a bit rushed to fit the word count. Mostly a satisfying story, but I would have liked to see it developed more.
A Sliver of Sunset by Devon Rhodes 3 stars – A shifter who gets sick? Raises some interesting questions. I would have liked to see them addressed, but they were left dangling. The romance was sweet though.
Overall this was a nice read. I did enjoy each story for its own merit, even the ones that I thought were only teases for more story. Next time I see this list of authors with “Unconventional” in the title, I will still grab it without reading the blurb. They are well worth the read no matter what they write.
I received an ARC copy of this title for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated in any way for this review. All conclusions are my own opinions and responsibility.
August 5, 2015
This is a collection of stories set in and around a Paranormal bar called Unconventional located in San Diego, California.
All the characters are either vampires, shifters (werewolves, unicorn, and other) or warlocks/witches or other sorts of supernatural creatures with the occasional human thrown in.
The first story is Fate's Bridge by Carol Lynne, and features a couple of vampire brothers, one of whom manages the bar, while the other usually lives in New York. What follows is an intriguing tale of potential reincarnation in a human of a lost true love for one brother, and the other brother having to save said reincarnated love. There are many ups and downs as the three come to terms with how they all feel towards each other and will they manage to find their happy ever after? Read and find out.
The second tale in the collection: Coming in Third by Amber Kell is the story of a Fae Prince and two shifters. I especially loved this tale of the Prince who is very much under his mother's control until he comes into his own and starts to free himself from her manipulation. At the Mating Ball, will the Prince manage to get his Happy Ever After?
Thirdly, we have The Unicorn Shifter Said Yes by TA Chase, which features a unicorn shifter and his search for a mate. This was quite an exciting tale involving a chase through a forest and an unwitting betrayal. Will the Unicorn King save himself and his mate?
Next up is Blood On The Moon by Jambrea Jo Jones, featuring a warlock, his coven, a black cat called Reef, and an incubus in trouble. Kishar collapses on the doorstep of Montague (Monty) Ramey's cottage in a weak, bloody heap after crashing his motorbike. Monty knew the Blood Moon meant trouble and should have known better than to wish for something exciting to happen. Will the two survive the malevolent forces coming after them in the form of Kishar's family? Can a Warlock and an Incubus have a Happy Ever After?
Finally, the last little gem in this collection is A Sliver Of Sunset by Devon Rhodes. A tale of a sick shifter and a human, who happens to be his mate, who is also his nurse. Why are the water creatures getting sick? Such a rare occurrence that maybe it's something in the water? Will the sick Merman, Angelo, live long enough to enjoy a Happy Ever After with his mate, the human nurse Dominic?
Have a read of all of these wonderful short stories and find out.
All the characters are either vampires, shifters (werewolves, unicorn, and other) or warlocks/witches or other sorts of supernatural creatures with the occasional human thrown in.
The first story is Fate's Bridge by Carol Lynne, and features a couple of vampire brothers, one of whom manages the bar, while the other usually lives in New York. What follows is an intriguing tale of potential reincarnation in a human of a lost true love for one brother, and the other brother having to save said reincarnated love. There are many ups and downs as the three come to terms with how they all feel towards each other and will they manage to find their happy ever after? Read and find out.
The second tale in the collection: Coming in Third by Amber Kell is the story of a Fae Prince and two shifters. I especially loved this tale of the Prince who is very much under his mother's control until he comes into his own and starts to free himself from her manipulation. At the Mating Ball, will the Prince manage to get his Happy Ever After?
Thirdly, we have The Unicorn Shifter Said Yes by TA Chase, which features a unicorn shifter and his search for a mate. This was quite an exciting tale involving a chase through a forest and an unwitting betrayal. Will the Unicorn King save himself and his mate?
Next up is Blood On The Moon by Jambrea Jo Jones, featuring a warlock, his coven, a black cat called Reef, and an incubus in trouble. Kishar collapses on the doorstep of Montague (Monty) Ramey's cottage in a weak, bloody heap after crashing his motorbike. Monty knew the Blood Moon meant trouble and should have known better than to wish for something exciting to happen. Will the two survive the malevolent forces coming after them in the form of Kishar's family? Can a Warlock and an Incubus have a Happy Ever After?
Finally, the last little gem in this collection is A Sliver Of Sunset by Devon Rhodes. A tale of a sick shifter and a human, who happens to be his mate, who is also his nurse. Why are the water creatures getting sick? Such a rare occurrence that maybe it's something in the water? Will the sick Merman, Angelo, live long enough to enjoy a Happy Ever After with his mate, the human nurse Dominic?
Have a read of all of these wonderful short stories and find out.
August 21, 2015
Unconventional is the name of a drinking establishment where the paranormal and some of the more adventurous humans get together.
Fate’s Bridge by Carol Lynne – 5 Nymphs
The plot is an especially sensual vampire ménage. The characters are Bodi, a laid back amiable human turned vampire after a deadly attack. Bodi is the link that unites Roman, a centuries old vampire searching for the return of his first love’s human soul and Alexi, a vampire who secretly loves Roman.
My impression, together the three have achieved their forever love destiny.
Coming in Third by Amber Kell - 5 Nymphs
The plot is an amusing mixed species ménage. The main characters are Niall, a member of the fae royalty who is cursed with an abusive controlling mother. Jovan and Luka, cat shifters who are convinced after one night together that Niall is their mate and determined to claim him.
My impression, I was hoping someone would magically zap Niall’s mother or at the very least, the cats would bite her.
The Unicorn Said Yes by T.A. Chase - 4.5 Nymphs
The plot is a dark fantasy. The main characters are actually the innocent victims of a sinister plan to restore a perverted family’s long ago depraved notoriety. Carney is an outcast in his family, which makes Carney the perfect lure to entrap Ivan, the unicorn king.
My impression, honor triumphs over betrayal and trust can lead to love.
Blood on the Moon by Jambrea Jo Jones - 4.5 Nymphs
The plot is a mystery. The main characters are Kishar, an incubus ruled by his moral values rather than his deadly hunger. This makes Kishar a disgrace to his cold hearted mother, but a perfect mate for the fashion conscious righteous witch, Montague.
My impression, for every evil action, karma delivers a more powerful reaction as Kishar’s mother can attest to as she undergoes licentious detoxification.
A Sliver of Sunset by Devon Rhodes - 4.5 Nymphs
The plot is a poignant love story. The main characters are Angelo, an ocean shifter facing a battle with leukemia and Dominic, a human and a nurse in the cancer hospital.
My impression, fate brought them together at a time when Angelo desperately needed a loving mate the most.
Fate’s Bridge by Carol Lynne – 5 Nymphs
The plot is an especially sensual vampire ménage. The characters are Bodi, a laid back amiable human turned vampire after a deadly attack. Bodi is the link that unites Roman, a centuries old vampire searching for the return of his first love’s human soul and Alexi, a vampire who secretly loves Roman.
My impression, together the three have achieved their forever love destiny.
Coming in Third by Amber Kell - 5 Nymphs
The plot is an amusing mixed species ménage. The main characters are Niall, a member of the fae royalty who is cursed with an abusive controlling mother. Jovan and Luka, cat shifters who are convinced after one night together that Niall is their mate and determined to claim him.
My impression, I was hoping someone would magically zap Niall’s mother or at the very least, the cats would bite her.
The Unicorn Said Yes by T.A. Chase - 4.5 Nymphs
The plot is a dark fantasy. The main characters are actually the innocent victims of a sinister plan to restore a perverted family’s long ago depraved notoriety. Carney is an outcast in his family, which makes Carney the perfect lure to entrap Ivan, the unicorn king.
My impression, honor triumphs over betrayal and trust can lead to love.
Blood on the Moon by Jambrea Jo Jones - 4.5 Nymphs
The plot is a mystery. The main characters are Kishar, an incubus ruled by his moral values rather than his deadly hunger. This makes Kishar a disgrace to his cold hearted mother, but a perfect mate for the fashion conscious righteous witch, Montague.
My impression, for every evil action, karma delivers a more powerful reaction as Kishar’s mother can attest to as she undergoes licentious detoxification.
A Sliver of Sunset by Devon Rhodes - 4.5 Nymphs
The plot is a poignant love story. The main characters are Angelo, an ocean shifter facing a battle with leukemia and Dominic, a human and a nurse in the cancer hospital.
My impression, fate brought them together at a time when Angelo desperately needed a loving mate the most.
July 22, 2015
I'm going to try and leave mini reviews as I read this anthology. They all revolve around a club, Unconventional, and are paranormal stories.
‘Fate’s Bridge’ by Carol Lynne - 3 stars
I liked the very ending of this, I thought it was a sweet way to end it. And I liked the story, but it just seemed so short that it could have been a but more…layered? complex? if there had been more time given to the story.
‘Coming in Third’ by Amber Kell - 4 stars
I really liked this one! There was a lot of story in this for it being a short story. Niall, Jovan, and Luka were hot, sweet, sexy together, and I'm glad they got their HEA at the end of this! I could totally read more about these 3.
‘The Unicorn Said Yes’ by T.A. Chase - 4 stars
I really enjoyed this one! I loved Ivan and Carney and enjoyed the storytelling in this one. More unicorns, please!
‘Blood on the Moon’ by Jambrea Jo Jones 2.5-3 stars
Again, not my favorite in the anthology. It was just too short and fast for me to get into the story and care for the characters.
‘A Sliver of Sunset’ by Devon Rhodes 4.5 stars
My favorite story in the series. I really enjoyed the characters, the storytelling, the romance, it was a stand out for me in the collection.
I enjoy all of these authors and enjoy these anthology collections. Hope they'll all work together again!
‘Fate’s Bridge’ by Carol Lynne - 3 stars
I liked the very ending of this, I thought it was a sweet way to end it. And I liked the story, but it just seemed so short that it could have been a but more…layered? complex? if there had been more time given to the story.
‘Coming in Third’ by Amber Kell - 4 stars
I really liked this one! There was a lot of story in this for it being a short story. Niall, Jovan, and Luka were hot, sweet, sexy together, and I'm glad they got their HEA at the end of this! I could totally read more about these 3.
‘The Unicorn Said Yes’ by T.A. Chase - 4 stars
I really enjoyed this one! I loved Ivan and Carney and enjoyed the storytelling in this one. More unicorns, please!
‘Blood on the Moon’ by Jambrea Jo Jones 2.5-3 stars
Again, not my favorite in the anthology. It was just too short and fast for me to get into the story and care for the characters.
‘A Sliver of Sunset’ by Devon Rhodes 4.5 stars
My favorite story in the series. I really enjoyed the characters, the storytelling, the romance, it was a stand out for me in the collection.
I enjoy all of these authors and enjoy these anthology collections. Hope they'll all work together again!
July 17, 2015
Very good.
July 21, 2015
Coming in Third by Amber Kell - 3.75 stars
The Unicorn Said Yes by TA Chase - 3.5 stars
The Unicorn Said Yes by TA Chase - 3.5 stars
August 7, 2015
I rounded up. on average it was prob a 3.2 star but 2 stories hit high for me so i went with that :)
Want to read
September 5, 2015Want to read the novella by Devon Rhodes.
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