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Follow Me Into Darkness
Carnivale is a time for decadence, for revelry, and for mischief. A time when we shed the figurative masks we wear in everyday life in favor of new ones… ones that allow us to be a little bolder, a little more adventurous, and perhaps a little truer to ourselves. Follow Me Into Darkness is a compilation of original tales of queer romance by five of the premier authors of contemporary romance.
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
Interesting things never happened to Zay. He was the wallflower everyone forgot about as soon as the booze began to flow, and Mardi Gras had never been an exception. But after a chance encounter with a devil-may-care grifter, this year's celebration brings adventure and whirlwind romance.
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
Seventeen-year-old Ven should be flying high—he's playing the title role in a new TV drama about Hamlet's teen years, and tonight they're having a Mardi Gras cast party in a possibly-haunted castle. But Ven's lost all his mirth since his boyfriend suggested they "take a break," so he plans to skip the bash and brood in his trailer all night. Then the exasperating guy who plays Horatio challenges him to a Shakespearean soliloquy-off, and Ven knows his actorly honor is at stake. He says yes to the duel, trudges off to the the party to meet his fate--and finds that more awaits him onstage than a battle of wits and words.
Masked by J.R. Gray
Blistering heat and half-naked masked men as far as the eye can see, but Heath runs into the one face it’s taken him fifteen years to forget. Javier is plagued with a life of regret, but when a second chance confronts him, can he let go of his hang-ups and seize the moment?
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
Isah plays the role everyone malleable and cautious, a true queen. But what others see as a queen’s appropriate modesty is really just a disguise for what Isah has never told anyone, the thing no one can ever know.
This body, dressed in the queen’s gowns, is a lie.
Once a year, at carnival, Isah dons someone else’s clothes and becomes them for a night. A young cook in stained whites, or a stableboy in worn breeches. As long as no one gets too close the pretense holds.
Until two strangers look past all the characters and Isah finally exposes the person behind the mask.
Touched by Roan Parrish
Sometimes when he touches people Philippe Rondeau sees their future. It’s erratic and inconvenient, but mostly he’s learned to deal with it. Sure he hasn’t found true love yet, but he has friends and lovers, and is kept busy running his family’s jazz club in Prohibition-era New Orleans. But now it’s Mardi Gras and all bets are off. In the space of one night, Philippe falls under the spell of jazz musician Claude and learns a terrible secret about his powers. If Philippe is certain of anything it’s that the future can be tricky, but the chance at love makes it all seem worthwhile.
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
Interesting things never happened to Zay. He was the wallflower everyone forgot about as soon as the booze began to flow, and Mardi Gras had never been an exception. But after a chance encounter with a devil-may-care grifter, this year's celebration brings adventure and whirlwind romance.
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
Seventeen-year-old Ven should be flying high—he's playing the title role in a new TV drama about Hamlet's teen years, and tonight they're having a Mardi Gras cast party in a possibly-haunted castle. But Ven's lost all his mirth since his boyfriend suggested they "take a break," so he plans to skip the bash and brood in his trailer all night. Then the exasperating guy who plays Horatio challenges him to a Shakespearean soliloquy-off, and Ven knows his actorly honor is at stake. He says yes to the duel, trudges off to the the party to meet his fate--and finds that more awaits him onstage than a battle of wits and words.
Masked by J.R. Gray
Blistering heat and half-naked masked men as far as the eye can see, but Heath runs into the one face it’s taken him fifteen years to forget. Javier is plagued with a life of regret, but when a second chance confronts him, can he let go of his hang-ups and seize the moment?
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
Isah plays the role everyone malleable and cautious, a true queen. But what others see as a queen’s appropriate modesty is really just a disguise for what Isah has never told anyone, the thing no one can ever know.
This body, dressed in the queen’s gowns, is a lie.
Once a year, at carnival, Isah dons someone else’s clothes and becomes them for a night. A young cook in stained whites, or a stableboy in worn breeches. As long as no one gets too close the pretense holds.
Until two strangers look past all the characters and Isah finally exposes the person behind the mask.
Touched by Roan Parrish
Sometimes when he touches people Philippe Rondeau sees their future. It’s erratic and inconvenient, but mostly he’s learned to deal with it. Sure he hasn’t found true love yet, but he has friends and lovers, and is kept busy running his family’s jazz club in Prohibition-era New Orleans. But now it’s Mardi Gras and all bets are off. In the space of one night, Philippe falls under the spell of jazz musician Claude and learns a terrible secret about his powers. If Philippe is certain of anything it’s that the future can be tricky, but the chance at love makes it all seem worthwhile.
189 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2016
9 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
J.R. Gray
61 books1,248 followersWhen not staying up all night writing, J.R. Gray can be found at the gym where it's half assumed he is a permanent resident to fulfill his self-inflicted masochism. A dominant and a pilot, Gray finds it hard to be in the passenger seat of any car. He frequently interrupts real life, including normal sleep patterns and conversations, to jot down notes or plot bunnies. Commas are the bane of his existence even though it's been fully acknowledged they are necessary, they continue to baffle and bewilder. If Gray wasn't writing…well, that's not possible. The buildup of untold stories would haunt Gray into an early grave, insanity or both. The idea of haunting has always appealed to him. J.R. Gray is genderqueer and prefers he/him pronouns.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 23, 2016
throw me some beads, bitchez—i came to party.
OMG NEW LILLIS!!! I HAZ AN EXCITE!!!!!!!
*shakes tits happily*
ok, here's what i thought:
if we be friends, by j.c. lillis. both darkly hilarious and sweetly whimsical, this short packs in feelz of all stripes. i'd have gone for the traditional suburban dance-battur instead of what turned out to be a wonderfully clever soliloquy-off, but i suppose that's one reason why j.c. lillis is j.c. lillis and i am picking lint out of my belly button right now. truly, a delightful story. four stars.
touched, by roan parrish. really kind of unpleasantly overwritten at the outset, with a number of unsuccessful similes jumbled up together senselessly—and yet i was nonetheless engrossed by the wonderfully rich atmosphere and authentic feel to the setting. i enjoyed myself more and more as the story went on and despite that wobbly beginning and a frankly unsatisfying ending, i found the creepy detours and haunting revelations to be richly rewarding. three stars.
masked, by j.r. gray. ouf. the polite way to put it would be to mumble about craft issues, but that's not happening here. this story is under-baked, with lots of grating repetitions, awkward syntax, and every mm cliche ever. couldn't get through the whole thing without a rage-quit, particularly once getting condoms became a plot point. why not three pages on whether they tied their shoes properly, too? and i dunno what those betas were doing, but they sure weren't reminding the author that brazil has more than one city in it. would have been nice if this story had been set in any one of them in particular. one star.
the queen's reflection, by kris ripper. a clunky and slightly illogical start proved no great impediment here, as eventually i found myself completely engrossed in what was a heartfelt and deeply satisfying story about what it's like to find yourself in the kind embrace of strangers who see you as you are, and not just as you appear to be. got me right in the feelz—twice—and then again smack in the middle of my junk during an incredibly erotic ménage—also twice. threeboners stars.
hurricane, by santino hassell. DNR. no rating.
please note my rating is not an average, but the highest rating attained by any particular story in the anthology, so as not to unfairly punish good stories with the ratings earned by bad ones.
OMG NEW LILLIS!!! I HAZ AN EXCITE!!!!!!!
*shakes tits happily*
ok, here's what i thought:
if we be friends, by j.c. lillis. both darkly hilarious and sweetly whimsical, this short packs in feelz of all stripes. i'd have gone for the traditional suburban dance-battur instead of what turned out to be a wonderfully clever soliloquy-off, but i suppose that's one reason why j.c. lillis is j.c. lillis and i am picking lint out of my belly button right now. truly, a delightful story. four stars.
touched, by roan parrish. really kind of unpleasantly overwritten at the outset, with a number of unsuccessful similes jumbled up together senselessly—and yet i was nonetheless engrossed by the wonderfully rich atmosphere and authentic feel to the setting. i enjoyed myself more and more as the story went on and despite that wobbly beginning and a frankly unsatisfying ending, i found the creepy detours and haunting revelations to be richly rewarding. three stars.
masked, by j.r. gray. ouf. the polite way to put it would be to mumble about craft issues, but that's not happening here. this story is under-baked, with lots of grating repetitions, awkward syntax, and every mm cliche ever. couldn't get through the whole thing without a rage-quit, particularly once getting condoms became a plot point. why not three pages on whether they tied their shoes properly, too? and i dunno what those betas were doing, but they sure weren't reminding the author that brazil has more than one city in it. would have been nice if this story had been set in any one of them in particular. one star.
the queen's reflection, by kris ripper. a clunky and slightly illogical start proved no great impediment here, as eventually i found myself completely engrossed in what was a heartfelt and deeply satisfying story about what it's like to find yourself in the kind embrace of strangers who see you as you are, and not just as you appear to be. got me right in the feelz—twice—and then again smack in the middle of my junk during an incredibly erotic ménage—also twice. three
hurricane, by santino hassell. DNR. no rating.
please note my rating is not an average, but the highest rating attained by any particular story in the anthology, so as not to unfairly punish good stories with the ratings earned by bad ones.
March 2, 2018
Deleting review because of reasons. They are easy enough to find if you care to.
I'm leaving my original rating and review under a spoiler tag to evidentiate I did read it and the majority of this space is dedicated to the book.
I'm leaving my original rating and review under a spoiler tag to evidentiate I did read it and the majority of this space is dedicated to the book.
February 13, 2016
My review on Prism Book Alliance
This is the second anthology by these authors and, like the first one, it has some really great stories that I highly recommend reading. The first antho,
Lead Me Into Darkness, is even available for free.
Connected through the theme of carnivale, this time the authors focus on the masks we wear every day or just on some days and how valuable it is to let them slip or get rid of them all together.
As with every anthology, there are stories that I like more than others, and that’s perfectly all right.
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
Oh… This was surprising! Let me tell you why:
The plot was unpredictable. From the meeting in the bar, over the visit to the Voodoo Queen’s tomb, to the ending, with all it’s revelations and turns in between. Loved that! There wasn’t an uninteresting minute through-out the whole story.
The characters surprise themselves and also us. While we get to know Zay from the start, since he tells the story, we only slowly get more information on Kee. While Zay has to throw his protective mask of reclusiveness away, Kee is revealed to us bit by bit, in a way I’d never expected.
To be impressed with a short story is something rare. Seriously, the format worked so great for this story. It feels complete, but still teases us to think about the future and meanings. The pacing, the dialogue, the charming characters, they all were perfectly balanced, enhanced each other, and brought together a wonderful story that I highly recommend reading.
5 stars
If We Be Friends by J.C. Willis
This kinda wasn’t my story. It’s well written, like I’ve come to expect by now from the author, but I just couldn’t connect with it.
It’s kinda sad and just too much Shakespeare for me. I can’t believe I’m bold enough to say this.
I think this is a good story, just not for me.
No rating
Masked by J.R. Gray
sigh what a cocktease…
If you like to be teased endlessly and interrupted permanently, this is your book. The writing is decent, the characters as well. Not enough for me to put myself through this, though.
I was irritated with the pacing and the development of the story, but after 50% of the book I realised this was simply what the author was going for, so…
No rating. (I feel like giving 1 star based on my liking, but I think this isn’t entirely fair.)
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
This was great! Set in a high fantasy world, that seriously needs a ton of more stories and books, Kris shows us how to be true to oneself.
I especially loved the scene where the transgender protagonist learns to accept his body as it is. That was quite powerful.
As is to be kinda expected from Kris, this short is kinda super hot, too :)
The format also fit really well. But seriously, there could be so much more in this universe. I need to work my magic on Kris to make this happen :)
4 stars
Touched by Roan Parrish
Wow. I’m kinda speechless with how amazing this was. I devoured it and I can’t get enough, I think.
Roan has a wonderful way with words and creates such wonderful settings, characters and stories. I loved the supernatural element in this story.
Though the book ends bittersweet, it tells us to enjoy every moment to the fullest.
5 stars
_______________
Genre: anthology, mixed
Tags: masks
This is the second anthology by these authors and, like the first one, it has some really great stories that I highly recommend reading. The first antho,
Lead Me Into Darkness, is even available for free.Connected through the theme of carnivale, this time the authors focus on the masks we wear every day or just on some days and how valuable it is to let them slip or get rid of them all together.
As with every anthology, there are stories that I like more than others, and that’s perfectly all right.
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
Oh… This was surprising! Let me tell you why:
The plot was unpredictable. From the meeting in the bar, over the visit to the Voodoo Queen’s tomb, to the ending, with all it’s revelations and turns in between. Loved that! There wasn’t an uninteresting minute through-out the whole story.
The characters surprise themselves and also us. While we get to know Zay from the start, since he tells the story, we only slowly get more information on Kee. While Zay has to throw his protective mask of reclusiveness away, Kee is revealed to us bit by bit, in a way I’d never expected.
To be impressed with a short story is something rare. Seriously, the format worked so great for this story. It feels complete, but still teases us to think about the future and meanings. The pacing, the dialogue, the charming characters, they all were perfectly balanced, enhanced each other, and brought together a wonderful story that I highly recommend reading.
5 stars
If We Be Friends by J.C. Willis
This kinda wasn’t my story. It’s well written, like I’ve come to expect by now from the author, but I just couldn’t connect with it.
It’s kinda sad and just too much Shakespeare for me. I can’t believe I’m bold enough to say this.
I think this is a good story, just not for me.
No rating
Masked by J.R. Gray
sigh what a cocktease…
If you like to be teased endlessly and interrupted permanently, this is your book. The writing is decent, the characters as well. Not enough for me to put myself through this, though.
I was irritated with the pacing and the development of the story, but after 50% of the book I realised this was simply what the author was going for, so…
No rating. (I feel like giving 1 star based on my liking, but I think this isn’t entirely fair.)
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
This was great! Set in a high fantasy world, that seriously needs a ton of more stories and books, Kris shows us how to be true to oneself.
I especially loved the scene where the transgender protagonist learns to accept his body as it is. That was quite powerful.
As is to be kinda expected from Kris, this short is kinda super hot, too :)
The format also fit really well. But seriously, there could be so much more in this universe. I need to work my magic on Kris to make this happen :)
4 stars
Touched by Roan Parrish
Wow. I’m kinda speechless with how amazing this was. I devoured it and I can’t get enough, I think.
Roan has a wonderful way with words and creates such wonderful settings, characters and stories. I loved the supernatural element in this story.
Though the book ends bittersweet, it tells us to enjoy every moment to the fullest.
5 stars
_______________
Genre: anthology, mixed
Tags: masks
not-worth-my-time-and-money
March 6, 2018Nope, because
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https://ingloriousbitches.wordpress.c...
March 20, 2017
Before I delve into the individual stories, I must say I was very impressed by this anthology. Anthologies are not generally my cup of tea, owing to the short nature of the stories. This one intrigued me both because of the theme, but because I am a fan of the authors included. The stories included are unique, hopeful and haunting, and I definitely recommend you grab this one, particularly since it’s currently on sale!
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
Interesting things never happened to Zay. He was the wallflower everyone forgot about as soon as the booze began to flow, and Mardi Gras had never been an exception. But after a chance encounter with a devil-may-care grifter, this year’s celebration brings adventure and whirlwind romance.
This was a great short by Hassell. I admire when authors can give us clear characterization in a short story without cluttering the movement of plot with info dump. I loved Zay, I loved seeing his defensiveness, his fear, the way his needs slowly unfolded for the reader. The end was lovely. As always, I wished there was more, but it ended on a perfect story beat. Fair warning that there is an incidence of gay-bashing in the story, if that triggers you.
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
Seventeen-year-old Ven should be flying high—he’s playing the title role in a new TV drama about Hamlet’s teen years, and tonight they’re having a Mardi Gras cast party in a possibly-haunted castle. But Ven’s lost all his mirth since his boyfriend suggested they “take a break,” so he plans to skip the bash and brood in his trailer all night. Then the exasperating guy who plays Horatio challenges him to a Shakespearean soliloquy-off, and Ven knows his actorly honor is at stake. He says yes to the duel, trudges off to the party to meet his fate–and finds that more awaits him onstage than a battle of wits and words.
It took me a moment to get into this story — it has an unusual quality to it. I really applaud it though, because once you get into it, you realize that the theatricality reflected in the language works as a layer of character development. That theatricality tells us so much about Ven’s heartbreak, the jadedness he wears to protect and distance himself in that heartbreak, but also, his youth. The soliloquy-off: wow. That was really moving. What followed was sexy and hopeful. I really, really loved the use of “the ghost”; it was an excellent writing device that lesser skilled authors would not be able to pull off.
Masked by J.R. Gray
Blistering heat and half-naked masked men as far as the eye can see, but Heath runs into the one face it’s taken him fifteen years to forget. Javier is plagued with a life of regret, but when a second chance confronts him, can he let go of his hang-ups and seize the moment?
I will admit I struggled with this story. I am not sure how much experience the author has re: Brasil, so I don’t want to assume that what I perceived to be inaccuracies or stereotypes weren’t purposeful. That said: this story also features gay-bashing. It is very graphic and violent. I was a little turned off by all the kissing and rough touching mixed in with conversations about potential punctured lungs, open face wounds that may require stitching, and broken ribs. That may just be squeamishness. This story had potential, but the actual plot needed much more room to be fleshed out in a way that did it justice.
Personal note: perhaps not all Latinx people object, but I am not a fan of being referred to as Latin (rather than Latina or Latinx), as the author does one female character.
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
Isah plays the role everyone expects: malleable and cautious, a true queen. But what others see as a queen’s appropriate modesty is really just a disguise for what Isah has never told anyone, the thing no one can ever know.
This body, dressed in the queen’s gowns, is a lie.
Once a year, at carnival, Isah dons someone else’s clothes and becomes them for a night. A young cook in stained whites, or a stableboy in worn breeches. As long as no one gets too close the pretense holds.
Until two strangers look past all the characters and Isah finally exposes the person behind the mask.
This story was incredibly sexy and also very emotional and moving. It took me a moment to get into the world — with a short story it is hard to do a lot of world building — but once I was in, I was in. Ripper does a great job reflecting Isah’s struggles, longing and pain. This story shines all around, but there is one scene in particular, having to do with Isah’s identity and body in an intimate setting, that truly moved me to tears. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I highly encourage y’all to read this one.
Touched by Roan Parrish
Sometimes when he touches people Philippe Rondeau sees their future. It’s erratic and inconvenient, but mostly he’s learned to deal with it. Sure he hasn’t found true love yet, but he has friends and lovers, and is kept busy running his family’s jazz club in Prohibition-era New Orleans. But now it’s Mardi Gras and all bets are off. In the space of one night, Philippe falls under the spell of jazz musician Claude and learns a terrible secret about his powers. If Philippe is certain of anything it’s that the future can be tricky, but the chance at love makes it all seem worthwhile.
Holy Moses readers. They truly saved the best for last here. This story was stunningly written. Parrish captures every sense with her descriptive language: I felt the setting, I was grounded in Philippe’s body and struggles. The desire and attraction between Philippe and Claude is palpable. But all of that pales in the wake of the actual story. It is utterly haunting. I honestly feel as though I could write a small essay in the wake of this one; Parrish captures the visceral punch of Philippe’s visions deftly, building them over the course of the story, leading us to their meaning without telling us. The end was both expected and unexpected; this story has settled in my chest, a lingering ache.
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
Interesting things never happened to Zay. He was the wallflower everyone forgot about as soon as the booze began to flow, and Mardi Gras had never been an exception. But after a chance encounter with a devil-may-care grifter, this year’s celebration brings adventure and whirlwind romance.
This was a great short by Hassell. I admire when authors can give us clear characterization in a short story without cluttering the movement of plot with info dump. I loved Zay, I loved seeing his defensiveness, his fear, the way his needs slowly unfolded for the reader. The end was lovely. As always, I wished there was more, but it ended on a perfect story beat. Fair warning that there is an incidence of gay-bashing in the story, if that triggers you.
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
Seventeen-year-old Ven should be flying high—he’s playing the title role in a new TV drama about Hamlet’s teen years, and tonight they’re having a Mardi Gras cast party in a possibly-haunted castle. But Ven’s lost all his mirth since his boyfriend suggested they “take a break,” so he plans to skip the bash and brood in his trailer all night. Then the exasperating guy who plays Horatio challenges him to a Shakespearean soliloquy-off, and Ven knows his actorly honor is at stake. He says yes to the duel, trudges off to the party to meet his fate–and finds that more awaits him onstage than a battle of wits and words.
It took me a moment to get into this story — it has an unusual quality to it. I really applaud it though, because once you get into it, you realize that the theatricality reflected in the language works as a layer of character development. That theatricality tells us so much about Ven’s heartbreak, the jadedness he wears to protect and distance himself in that heartbreak, but also, his youth. The soliloquy-off: wow. That was really moving. What followed was sexy and hopeful. I really, really loved the use of “the ghost”; it was an excellent writing device that lesser skilled authors would not be able to pull off.
Masked by J.R. Gray
Blistering heat and half-naked masked men as far as the eye can see, but Heath runs into the one face it’s taken him fifteen years to forget. Javier is plagued with a life of regret, but when a second chance confronts him, can he let go of his hang-ups and seize the moment?
I will admit I struggled with this story. I am not sure how much experience the author has re: Brasil, so I don’t want to assume that what I perceived to be inaccuracies or stereotypes weren’t purposeful. That said: this story also features gay-bashing. It is very graphic and violent. I was a little turned off by all the kissing and rough touching mixed in with conversations about potential punctured lungs, open face wounds that may require stitching, and broken ribs. That may just be squeamishness. This story had potential, but the actual plot needed much more room to be fleshed out in a way that did it justice.
Personal note: perhaps not all Latinx people object, but I am not a fan of being referred to as Latin (rather than Latina or Latinx), as the author does one female character.
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
Isah plays the role everyone expects: malleable and cautious, a true queen. But what others see as a queen’s appropriate modesty is really just a disguise for what Isah has never told anyone, the thing no one can ever know.
This body, dressed in the queen’s gowns, is a lie.
Once a year, at carnival, Isah dons someone else’s clothes and becomes them for a night. A young cook in stained whites, or a stableboy in worn breeches. As long as no one gets too close the pretense holds.
Until two strangers look past all the characters and Isah finally exposes the person behind the mask.
This story was incredibly sexy and also very emotional and moving. It took me a moment to get into the world — with a short story it is hard to do a lot of world building — but once I was in, I was in. Ripper does a great job reflecting Isah’s struggles, longing and pain. This story shines all around, but there is one scene in particular, having to do with Isah’s identity and body in an intimate setting, that truly moved me to tears. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I highly encourage y’all to read this one.
Touched by Roan Parrish
Sometimes when he touches people Philippe Rondeau sees their future. It’s erratic and inconvenient, but mostly he’s learned to deal with it. Sure he hasn’t found true love yet, but he has friends and lovers, and is kept busy running his family’s jazz club in Prohibition-era New Orleans. But now it’s Mardi Gras and all bets are off. In the space of one night, Philippe falls under the spell of jazz musician Claude and learns a terrible secret about his powers. If Philippe is certain of anything it’s that the future can be tricky, but the chance at love makes it all seem worthwhile.
Holy Moses readers. They truly saved the best for last here. This story was stunningly written. Parrish captures every sense with her descriptive language: I felt the setting, I was grounded in Philippe’s body and struggles. The desire and attraction between Philippe and Claude is palpable. But all of that pales in the wake of the actual story. It is utterly haunting. I honestly feel as though I could write a small essay in the wake of this one; Parrish captures the visceral punch of Philippe’s visions deftly, building them over the course of the story, leading us to their meaning without telling us. The end was both expected and unexpected; this story has settled in my chest, a lingering ache.
March 3, 2017
This collection of LGBTQ short stories has a Carnivale theme and delivers some heat, some sweetness and some dark mystery. All the stories have some romantic elements and some have a happy for now ending. Here is a review for 3 of the 5 stories in the anthology.
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
The decadent whirlwind that is Carnivale in New Orleans is captured in this sexy tale. Convinced by his friends to head out for the night on Mardi Gras, a stop in a less well known and quieter bar away from Bourbon street leads to a chance meeting for college student Zay with a grifter, Zee, who makes his home under the cemetery stars. There’s a little bit of everything in this story, heat, action, and atmosphere as the city’s most famous night comes under scrutiny from two people daring to share a bit of themselves with each other. It’s a one-night story, with a happy for now ending that suits the tale. 4 stars.
Masked by J.R.Gray
Set in Brazil, this is a story of second chances for two young men who’d been friends as teenagers while living a street rat existence. When Heath had confessed his true feelings for Javier, it had split them apart for fifteen years, during which time things had changed for both of them. Heath became a US trained doctor and his return to Brazil for Carnivale was a way to sort out what to do next in his life, including the possibility of a position at a local hospital. When he encounters a man being beaten he never imagines it would be his old friend Javier. Javier is off the streets now and married to a lesbian, a marriage of convenience for them both to project an accepted heterosexual lifestyle in public while living their own lives in private. He regrets the way he and Heath parted and now has the chance to make up for old mistakes. While I enjoyed the story overall, I thought the intensity of the beating Javier endures at the beginning would have made it any sort of intimacy unpalatable but it doesn’t seem to bother these characters who share some steamy scenes and Javier heals remarkably fast. Javier’s marital situation won’t change anytime soon so the story is left on a happy for now note with the reunited friends content to see where things will go. 3 stars.
Touched by Roan Parrish
This short story is not a romance, though there are a few sexually intimate scenes. It’s set in New Orleans during Carnivale in 1929 and features a young man Philippe who has the ‘sight’ – psychic visions of the future passed down through his family for generations. He’s recently lost an Aunt who was the guide he relied upon to ease his mind about the visions he saw. He meets Claude, a black jazz musician and spends an evening with him, all while the visions increase in intensity. I really like the setting of this one and it’s made me want to read more about New Orleans in the ‘20s and ‘30s. The author has a very fluid writing style and even though the story has a bittersweet ending, I was completely drawn in. 4 stars.
This review has been posted at: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this collection was provided by the authors for review.
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
The decadent whirlwind that is Carnivale in New Orleans is captured in this sexy tale. Convinced by his friends to head out for the night on Mardi Gras, a stop in a less well known and quieter bar away from Bourbon street leads to a chance meeting for college student Zay with a grifter, Zee, who makes his home under the cemetery stars. There’s a little bit of everything in this story, heat, action, and atmosphere as the city’s most famous night comes under scrutiny from two people daring to share a bit of themselves with each other. It’s a one-night story, with a happy for now ending that suits the tale. 4 stars.
Masked by J.R.Gray
Set in Brazil, this is a story of second chances for two young men who’d been friends as teenagers while living a street rat existence. When Heath had confessed his true feelings for Javier, it had split them apart for fifteen years, during which time things had changed for both of them. Heath became a US trained doctor and his return to Brazil for Carnivale was a way to sort out what to do next in his life, including the possibility of a position at a local hospital. When he encounters a man being beaten he never imagines it would be his old friend Javier. Javier is off the streets now and married to a lesbian, a marriage of convenience for them both to project an accepted heterosexual lifestyle in public while living their own lives in private. He regrets the way he and Heath parted and now has the chance to make up for old mistakes. While I enjoyed the story overall, I thought the intensity of the beating Javier endures at the beginning would have made it any sort of intimacy unpalatable but it doesn’t seem to bother these characters who share some steamy scenes and Javier heals remarkably fast. Javier’s marital situation won’t change anytime soon so the story is left on a happy for now note with the reunited friends content to see where things will go. 3 stars.
Touched by Roan Parrish
This short story is not a romance, though there are a few sexually intimate scenes. It’s set in New Orleans during Carnivale in 1929 and features a young man Philippe who has the ‘sight’ – psychic visions of the future passed down through his family for generations. He’s recently lost an Aunt who was the guide he relied upon to ease his mind about the visions he saw. He meets Claude, a black jazz musician and spends an evening with him, all while the visions increase in intensity. I really like the setting of this one and it’s made me want to read more about New Orleans in the ‘20s and ‘30s. The author has a very fluid writing style and even though the story has a bittersweet ending, I was completely drawn in. 4 stars.
This review has been posted at: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this collection was provided by the authors for review.
February 6, 2016
With anthologies, you're always going to get one or two stories that resonate with you more than the others. This collection of stories from some of my favourite m/m romance authors was no different. Santino Hassell's 'Hurricane' was too short by far. I definitely wanted more of loner Zay and the mysterious Kee and I hope he revisits them again at some point. The one I think that surprised me the most, though, was by the author I was least familiar with, J.C. Lillis. If We Be Friends was original and sweet and the Shakespeare soliloquy-off was the best. It's definitely made me want to seek out more of her writing. Overall, I really enjoyed this collection. 4 stars
March 6, 2018
In the light of recent events, removing my rating and my review is not enough. Because it isn’t just a catfish case. What’s more important, it’s a potentially illegal case. We’re dealing with swindle money out of people under false pretences. Removing only the rating, in my opinion, it’s not enough. It just makes my vote invalid. Meaningless for the overall rating. And I want my voice to be heard, that’s way I’m giving one star rating.
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February 3, 2016
I reviewed this anthology for Ever After Romance here:
http://www.everafterromance.com/5268-2/
http://www.everafterromance.com/5268-2/
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October 1, 2024Got this just to read If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis - 5 stars
March 6, 2017
Advance Review Copy generously provided by the publisher.
4.5 Stars
NOTE: My ratings for anthologies reflect overall satisfaction rather than any individual rating or average.
Short stories are very much about glimpsing a pivotal moment. Successful framing is dependent upon a balance of brevity in backstory, setting, and characterization but just enough detail of those elements in just the right places to make the moment shine. It’s the merciless and crafty author who can strike a balance between efficient and artful word choices that paint a complete and tiny portrait.
Here are my brief thoughts on five short stories.
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
This was a decidedly different tone for Santino than I’ve become accustomed to — and I’ve read a lot A LOT of Santino’s work. But, as ever, Santino shows his knack for sketching out characters that are relatable and lovable and producing a story with momentum that forces the reader to hang on for the ride. Hurricane steps out from behind the comfort of a mask and into the light of the sparkling Mardi Gras madness with a shady character of a chaperone for one hell of an adventure. With a quick-step pace we see that living in the moment to try new things with just the right person can be a rollicking good time — and also a bit criminal and scary. Hurricane was a lot of fun and packed an emotional punch without a word wasted. FANTASTIC!
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
As things go, this was my first experience with J.C. Lillis — and I’ve wanted to read her work for ages now. I DON’T KNOW WHAT’S WRONG WITH ME. This was…this was SPECTACULAR. It took me a minute to figure out what I was getting into with a Shakespearian Soliloquy-off …but THEN. This was hilarious, witty, and super smart. The transformation and growth of the main character within such a fast-paced, short span of time was exceptional. There’s not a huge lock on an HEA sort of love, but the door is opened widely with a spark that’s nearly as flashy as the fireworks at the end. I don’t know quite what my expectations were — but this confounded and exceeded them.
Masked by J.R. Gray
J.R. Gray is another new-to-me author I’ve had my eye on. And…well…Masked didn’t go over too well for me. The story is bogged down with way too much meat and not enough bone structure that made for a disjointed short story without clear intentions. Cliches and improbabilities abounded in the form of arbitrary geography, problematic characterizations, an inhuman speed of healing after a bashing…all the et cetera. These characters were so all over the place (figuratively and literally bouncing around between different settings) that the focus of any critical moment defining this Second-Chance Romance got lost. Not a win.
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
Okey Doke, I have BIG HEARTS for Kris Ripper, and I really liked The Queen’s Reflection. Just…I have no idea what genre this was — like at all. The time and setting were way over my head and completely out of my grasp. Fantasy? IDK. There’s not much room for it within the confines of a short story, but a little bit more world-building would’ve helped steer me to the right spot in my imagination. But, the THEME grabbed me by the throat and captivated me for the duration. This story of a queen who is hiding in plain sight from their True Self, every day wearing a mask that doesn’t fit, and only shedding that mask once a year in exchange for one that allows them to breathe — and finally, FINALLY being seen as-is by two kind strangers. It’s a story of self-acceptance and maybe, just maybe, seeing a way to live out loud. This was gorgeous and erotic as all get out. Loved it!
Touched by Roan Parrish
New Orleans is one of my most favorite places on earth. There’s a relaxed energy where just about anything goes as long as it goes with gusto. Touched steps back to 1929 and into some of the hoodoo mystique the city is known for. The story is sentimental and artful, a tad hedonistic, and a bittersweet reminder to make the most of the present. This isn’t a typical romance with a solid HEA where the characters go forth together into the sunset — but none of these stories really are. It’s romantic nonetheless in the way it captures the time period, the vitality, the vibe and characteristics of New Orleans. And, I think it’s pretty romantic in the sense that there is an overwhelming calm that descends when we embrace living in the here and now — even when the future looks bleak.
Also posted on BackPorchReader.com March 3,2017.
4.5 Stars
NOTE: My ratings for anthologies reflect overall satisfaction rather than any individual rating or average.
Short stories are very much about glimpsing a pivotal moment. Successful framing is dependent upon a balance of brevity in backstory, setting, and characterization but just enough detail of those elements in just the right places to make the moment shine. It’s the merciless and crafty author who can strike a balance between efficient and artful word choices that paint a complete and tiny portrait.
Here are my brief thoughts on five short stories.
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
“There was a secret in his eyes and a hint of mischief in his smile.”
This was a decidedly different tone for Santino than I’ve become accustomed to — and I’ve read a lot A LOT of Santino’s work. But, as ever, Santino shows his knack for sketching out characters that are relatable and lovable and producing a story with momentum that forces the reader to hang on for the ride. Hurricane steps out from behind the comfort of a mask and into the light of the sparkling Mardi Gras madness with a shady character of a chaperone for one hell of an adventure. With a quick-step pace we see that living in the moment to try new things with just the right person can be a rollicking good time — and also a bit criminal and scary. Hurricane was a lot of fun and packed an emotional punch without a word wasted. FANTASTIC!
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
“You dwell on the ends so much […] that sometimes you miss the beginnings.”
As things go, this was my first experience with J.C. Lillis — and I’ve wanted to read her work for ages now. I DON’T KNOW WHAT’S WRONG WITH ME. This was…this was SPECTACULAR. It took me a minute to figure out what I was getting into with a Shakespearian Soliloquy-off …but THEN. This was hilarious, witty, and super smart. The transformation and growth of the main character within such a fast-paced, short span of time was exceptional. There’s not a huge lock on an HEA sort of love, but the door is opened widely with a spark that’s nearly as flashy as the fireworks at the end. I don’t know quite what my expectations were — but this confounded and exceeded them.
Masked by J.R. Gray
J.R. Gray is another new-to-me author I’ve had my eye on. And…well…Masked didn’t go over too well for me. The story is bogged down with way too much meat and not enough bone structure that made for a disjointed short story without clear intentions. Cliches and improbabilities abounded in the form of arbitrary geography, problematic characterizations, an inhuman speed of healing after a bashing…all the et cetera. These characters were so all over the place (figuratively and literally bouncing around between different settings) that the focus of any critical moment defining this Second-Chance Romance got lost. Not a win.
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
“That’s how it feels. Like a theft. Like I don’t deserve to be known, or seen.”
Okey Doke, I have BIG HEARTS for Kris Ripper, and I really liked The Queen’s Reflection. Just…I have no idea what genre this was — like at all. The time and setting were way over my head and completely out of my grasp. Fantasy? IDK. There’s not much room for it within the confines of a short story, but a little bit more world-building would’ve helped steer me to the right spot in my imagination. But, the THEME grabbed me by the throat and captivated me for the duration. This story of a queen who is hiding in plain sight from their True Self, every day wearing a mask that doesn’t fit, and only shedding that mask once a year in exchange for one that allows them to breathe — and finally, FINALLY being seen as-is by two kind strangers. It’s a story of self-acceptance and maybe, just maybe, seeing a way to live out loud. This was gorgeous and erotic as all get out. Loved it!
Touched by Roan Parrish
“Night was day and day was empty and emptiness was constant.”
New Orleans is one of my most favorite places on earth. There’s a relaxed energy where just about anything goes as long as it goes with gusto. Touched steps back to 1929 and into some of the hoodoo mystique the city is known for. The story is sentimental and artful, a tad hedonistic, and a bittersweet reminder to make the most of the present. This isn’t a typical romance with a solid HEA where the characters go forth together into the sunset — but none of these stories really are. It’s romantic nonetheless in the way it captures the time period, the vitality, the vibe and characteristics of New Orleans. And, I think it’s pretty romantic in the sense that there is an overwhelming calm that descends when we embrace living in the here and now — even when the future looks bleak.
Also posted on BackPorchReader.com March 3,2017.
July 17, 2017
4/5 for the anthology as a collection. Individual reviews below:
Hurricane by Santino Hassell - 3/5
This pains me to say, but I did not like this story at all. It had that kind of fleeting carnival feeling to it, like one minute the streets are full of lights and color and beautiful noises and the next there are flyers blowing down the street and a car horn blaring too loud. It was all so... fantasy-like. And I think this concept would have worked for me, it would have been fantastic for me, if it were longer. I'm still having mixed feelings over Hurricane, so I guess the name is fitting. (Ironically enough, though, this is the second book in a row with an MC named Zay... strange.)
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis - 4/5
This was hilarious and took me back to crazy high school days. Ven was cute and amazing and this story turned out to be a lot more than I expected. It was geeky and witty in all the right ways. It was a little hard to get into this story. The language is a little strange, but not in a bad way, it just takes a moment of adjustment to get used to it, but it's pretty amazing once you do.
Masked by J.R. Gray - 4/5
This was great. All the masks, all the naked man bodies, all the mysterious anonymity, but it really wasn't anonymous at all, was it? I loved Heath, and his backstory with his masked lover was well thought out. This could have been a full-length novel and I almost wanted it to be. The one downside was the violence. It just didn't feel like it meshed with the beginning of the story well and it made for a very dramatic impact in the plot with very little to no time for proper resolution.
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper - 5/5
This one gave me feels. I loved this. Isah took on a new identity one time per year during the carnival. Sometimes it would be a stable boy, other times it would be a cook. Anyone who wasn't who he had to be. I expected some quick sexy times from this short story, but I didn't expect all of the emotion and the punch to the chest. This almost got a little hard to read for a minute and I was blinking back some baby tears for a minute. The fact that Ripper can pack this much emotion into such a short story is a testament to how awesome of a writer (s)he? is. Highly recommend this one!!
Touched by Roan Parrish - 5/5
I love Roan Parrish. The blurb for this short did not catch my attention at all. In fact, I wasn't really looking forward to reading Touched at all, but I'm glad I gave it a chance because this was pretty amazing. I could feel the tension and attraction between Jude and Philippe. Every moment of this story was so deliberate and well planned. This anthology is worth reading for this story alone.
All in all, this was a pretty good anthology. I would recommend some stories over others, but it was all in all worth the read and very well put together. Sometimes I have a hard time with anthologies because there might be one or two stories that I want to read and I'm not interested in the rest, but it really worked out well in this case.
Reviewed by Jordan at Alpha Book Club.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the author or the publisher in any way.
Hurricane by Santino Hassell - 3/5
This pains me to say, but I did not like this story at all. It had that kind of fleeting carnival feeling to it, like one minute the streets are full of lights and color and beautiful noises and the next there are flyers blowing down the street and a car horn blaring too loud. It was all so... fantasy-like. And I think this concept would have worked for me, it would have been fantastic for me, if it were longer. I'm still having mixed feelings over Hurricane, so I guess the name is fitting. (Ironically enough, though, this is the second book in a row with an MC named Zay... strange.)
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis - 4/5
This was hilarious and took me back to crazy high school days. Ven was cute and amazing and this story turned out to be a lot more than I expected. It was geeky and witty in all the right ways. It was a little hard to get into this story. The language is a little strange, but not in a bad way, it just takes a moment of adjustment to get used to it, but it's pretty amazing once you do.
Masked by J.R. Gray - 4/5
This was great. All the masks, all the naked man bodies, all the mysterious anonymity, but it really wasn't anonymous at all, was it? I loved Heath, and his backstory with his masked lover was well thought out. This could have been a full-length novel and I almost wanted it to be. The one downside was the violence. It just didn't feel like it meshed with the beginning of the story well and it made for a very dramatic impact in the plot with very little to no time for proper resolution.
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper - 5/5
This one gave me feels. I loved this. Isah took on a new identity one time per year during the carnival. Sometimes it would be a stable boy, other times it would be a cook. Anyone who wasn't who he had to be. I expected some quick sexy times from this short story, but I didn't expect all of the emotion and the punch to the chest. This almost got a little hard to read for a minute and I was blinking back some baby tears for a minute. The fact that Ripper can pack this much emotion into such a short story is a testament to how awesome of a writer (s)he? is. Highly recommend this one!!
Touched by Roan Parrish - 5/5
I love Roan Parrish. The blurb for this short did not catch my attention at all. In fact, I wasn't really looking forward to reading Touched at all, but I'm glad I gave it a chance because this was pretty amazing. I could feel the tension and attraction between Jude and Philippe. Every moment of this story was so deliberate and well planned. This anthology is worth reading for this story alone.
All in all, this was a pretty good anthology. I would recommend some stories over others, but it was all in all worth the read and very well put together. Sometimes I have a hard time with anthologies because there might be one or two stories that I want to read and I'm not interested in the rest, but it really worked out well in this case.
Reviewed by Jordan at Alpha Book Club.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the author or the publisher in any way.
February 27, 2017
Reviews at link below:
http://bayoubookjunkie.blogspot.com/2...
http://bayoubookjunkie.blogspot.com/2...
February 11, 2016
My favorite was J.C. Lillis' If We Be Friends, it was unexpected and delightful. I am excited to hear there are more stories planned. Santino Hassell's Hurricane was great, but so short! I hope he decides to revisit Zay and Kee some time. Roan Parrish's Touched made me feel like I was wandering New Orleans, it was lovely. Kris Ripper's The Queen's Reflection left me sad but hopeful. I would be interested to see more. I enjoyed this anthology quite a bit.
Read
February 5, 2016Writing this so I don't forget. Read S. Hassell's story because that is what I wanted to read. Cute Mardi Gras story. 3 stars but very, very short.
August 25, 2017
I give this 5stars because with Santino Hassell, JC Lillis, Roan Parish and Kirk Ripper how could I not?
Santino's story about an introverted man's unexpectedly wonderful night in carnival sucked me right in immediately and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
JC Lillis's story was realistically bittersweet with an ending I cheered for. I love her story telling. The soliloquy-off = fantastic.
JR Gray's story kept me reading as I wanted to know what happened. I did find the way it was written hard going though.
Kris Ripper's story. Well! I haven't read a story of a trans person demonstrating gender dysphoria before and it was harrowing. I physically felt anxious for the majority of the story, only getting to breathe more deeply towards the end when Isah was able to feel himself if only briefly.
Roan Parish's story engrossed me from the beginning. I didn't want Philippe to find a true partner only to have it end so soon, and I didn't want Claude to have to deal with the Great Depression without Philippe. But I guess life is like that. And I suppose, who knows what really happens after the story ends? It's a wonderful story.
Santino's story about an introverted man's unexpectedly wonderful night in carnival sucked me right in immediately and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
JC Lillis's story was realistically bittersweet with an ending I cheered for. I love her story telling. The soliloquy-off = fantastic.
JR Gray's story kept me reading as I wanted to know what happened. I did find the way it was written hard going though.
Kris Ripper's story. Well! I haven't read a story of a trans person demonstrating gender dysphoria before and it was harrowing. I physically felt anxious for the majority of the story, only getting to breathe more deeply towards the end when Isah was able to feel himself if only briefly.
Roan Parish's story engrossed me from the beginning. I didn't want Philippe to find a true partner only to have it end so soon, and I didn't want Claude to have to deal with the Great Depression without Philippe. But I guess life is like that. And I suppose, who knows what really happens after the story ends? It's a wonderful story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2017
i've read only Santino's novella, but it was too short, but damn perfect!
February 4, 2016
First, I think this anthology was an interesting take on “masks” interwoven with the Carnivale theme. Throughout the collection, I found the writing to be superb. Super duper solid in two stories in particular, but each story was well-written. What didn’t capture me? The character development. Developing fully fleshed out characters is a tough thing to execute when you’re trying to meet a word count goal. Overall, my hat goes off to all the authors involved in this project. My reading time was well spent!
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
Not my first read by Santino Hassell but this was a pretty okay read for me. Not bad, not great but okay. Zay (Zavier) is a keep to himself type of guy. People seem to overlook him and view him as invisible, and he’s come to expect it. Out on the town with some friends, he meets Kee (Keegan), and he’s everything Zay would love to be. Appealing, dangerous, flirtatious, and whimsical. Kee opens up Zay’s eyes for a night, and it’s probably one of the best experiences for the young lad. Rating: 3 stars
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
I LOVED THIS STORY! This was my first J.C. Lillis read, and it was wonderful. Charming, hilarious, and emotional. I’m not much into YA, but I’m stepping outside of my comfort zone and reading more M/M YA stories. Kids usually have dance-offs to prove their street cred but not these dudes, they’re nerds, and I love it! I mean, who has a soliloquy-off? Too adorable. Ven is pretentious yet lovable. I did have an issue with the cheap shot at diversity mentioned in the story, but I understand why the author went there. If you’re like me and a fan of Shakespeare, then you’ll really enjoy this story. Rating: 4.5 stars
Masked by J.R. Gray
My first J.R. Gray read! There was loads of potential with Heath and Javier, but I loathe when short stories leave me with so many questions afterward. I WANTED MOAAARRRR! Unless this is the introduction to a full-length forthcoming novel, I am irate. Like mucho angry. There was a lot of back story between these characters, but the reader is left wondering what transpired before these two men reunited. Things are mentioned in passing, but it’s really a tease. Me no likey teasing. I guess that’s a good sign, lol I was so pissed when it ended! Rating: 3 stars
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
My first Kris Ripper read. This story left me scratching my head. I wasn’t sure what was going on with Isah. I’m certain the main character was trans, but I don’t know, something was missing for me. Maybe I read the story too fast, maybe I missed important details but after reading I had lots of questions. I think if this story were longer I might’ve rated it a bit higher. I need immersion. I’m a greedy reader. Rating: 3 stars
Touched by Roan Parrish
I AM A ROAN PARRISH FANATIC! I’m sad I didn’t get my grubby little hands on an ARC copy of Out of Nowhere, but this will hold me over until February 29th. Roan has a way with words; I truly enjoy her storytelling. This story opens up with a little bit of M/M/M action so if you’re into menages, hello! Fair warning, it’s only a minute part of the story so don’t get too excited, lol. I loved this story so very much. I enjoyed all the characters, even the secondary ones! That’s not easy to do in a short but the story felt complete to me, and I was extremely satisfied with the ending. Rating: 5 stars
ARC provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review. Visit Gay Book Reviews for the original post: http://gaybook.reviews/2016/02/03/fol...
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
Not my first read by Santino Hassell but this was a pretty okay read for me. Not bad, not great but okay. Zay (Zavier) is a keep to himself type of guy. People seem to overlook him and view him as invisible, and he’s come to expect it. Out on the town with some friends, he meets Kee (Keegan), and he’s everything Zay would love to be. Appealing, dangerous, flirtatious, and whimsical. Kee opens up Zay’s eyes for a night, and it’s probably one of the best experiences for the young lad. Rating: 3 stars
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
I LOVED THIS STORY! This was my first J.C. Lillis read, and it was wonderful. Charming, hilarious, and emotional. I’m not much into YA, but I’m stepping outside of my comfort zone and reading more M/M YA stories. Kids usually have dance-offs to prove their street cred but not these dudes, they’re nerds, and I love it! I mean, who has a soliloquy-off? Too adorable. Ven is pretentious yet lovable. I did have an issue with the cheap shot at diversity mentioned in the story, but I understand why the author went there. If you’re like me and a fan of Shakespeare, then you’ll really enjoy this story. Rating: 4.5 stars
Masked by J.R. Gray
My first J.R. Gray read! There was loads of potential with Heath and Javier, but I loathe when short stories leave me with so many questions afterward. I WANTED MOAAARRRR! Unless this is the introduction to a full-length forthcoming novel, I am irate. Like mucho angry. There was a lot of back story between these characters, but the reader is left wondering what transpired before these two men reunited. Things are mentioned in passing, but it’s really a tease. Me no likey teasing. I guess that’s a good sign, lol I was so pissed when it ended! Rating: 3 stars
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
My first Kris Ripper read. This story left me scratching my head. I wasn’t sure what was going on with Isah. I’m certain the main character was trans, but I don’t know, something was missing for me. Maybe I read the story too fast, maybe I missed important details but after reading I had lots of questions. I think if this story were longer I might’ve rated it a bit higher. I need immersion. I’m a greedy reader. Rating: 3 stars
Touched by Roan Parrish
I AM A ROAN PARRISH FANATIC! I’m sad I didn’t get my grubby little hands on an ARC copy of Out of Nowhere, but this will hold me over until February 29th. Roan has a way with words; I truly enjoy her storytelling. This story opens up with a little bit of M/M/M action so if you’re into menages, hello! Fair warning, it’s only a minute part of the story so don’t get too excited, lol. I loved this story so very much. I enjoyed all the characters, even the secondary ones! That’s not easy to do in a short but the story felt complete to me, and I was extremely satisfied with the ending. Rating: 5 stars
ARC provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review. Visit Gay Book Reviews for the original post: http://gaybook.reviews/2016/02/03/fol...
April 5, 2016
4.25 stars
Five stories, all taking place in Mardi Grass, all involving a decision to be made which can change everything….
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
On a Mardi Grass night, wallflower Zay decides to take the chance offered by dangerous and bohemian Keegan, and their crazy night takes them from the tomb of Marie Laveau to a decadent party in one of the luxurious mansions of New Orleans. But all nights, even the most special ones, are bound to end, and Zay knew Kee was not to be trusted….
This was so good! So really good! A short story which manages to give a complete psychological insight on both characters, and takes you from indifference to infatuation, despair and finally hope… There is only a drawback, though. Zay and Kee deserve more. A whole book! Please!
4.75 stars
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
Seventeen years old Bonaventure Clarence Bell, Ven for his friends, a young actor playing Hamlet in a TV drama, abandons his mourning mood pining for his ex boyfriend, to face the challenge of fellow actor Farley, the Horatio to his Hamlet. After an intense duel in a Mardi Grass party, Ven finally discovers there are different ways of remembering, and some of them are not bad…
Another amazing story, it perfectly describes the anguish of a heart broken for the first time, the intensity of feelings in the teens and their ability to heal. There is some anguish in this story, but also some hilarious moments and a secondary trope of enemies to lovers… A delicious piece.
4.75 stars
Masked by J.R. Gray
On a Mardi Grass night in Brasil, Heath comes back home pondering some important decisions through an alcoholic haze, when he comes upon a man being beaten by three thugs… When he decides to intervene, he finds out the victim is his lost love, Javier, and all those feelings he's been trying to forget come back as vivid as before...
So far, this is the odd one out. I did not enjoy it as much as the previous ones. There is too much change in moods, inconsistencies in the character's attitudes, lack of explanation everywhere, and this very annoying I-love-but-I-hate-you-but-I-love-you…
2.5 stars
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
Isah is the queen, but her life is suffocating in a golden cage where all his movements are watched over and cared for. Only a night a year she runs away from the castle in search of some real emotion. But this year, Mardi Grass will bring a liberating experience that will probably change her attitude forever
Another really sweet story, about the discovery of the real self and the relief and happiness of being accepted the way you are. It includes F/F/M scenes.
3.5 stars
Touched by Roan Parrish
Philippe Rondeau has the sight, a gift which allows him to get glimpses at the future of the people who touch him. It is Mardi Grass and Philippe is happy, enjoying life and sex and looking forward to the night at his bar Le Corbeau. Meeting Claude, a highly talented musician who seems as besotted with Philippe as Philippe with him seems to make the world perfect. But suddenly his visions turn into the dramatic. It is February 1929 and their world is about to change…
Another charming story about that Carpe Diem feeling… Philippe knows something bad is coming, but meeting Claude turns despair into an overwhelming need to enjoy everything good he can get, and he decides to enjoy every single moment he has of happiness before everything comes to an end…
4 stars
Five stories, all taking place in Mardi Grass, all involving a decision to be made which can change everything….
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
On a Mardi Grass night, wallflower Zay decides to take the chance offered by dangerous and bohemian Keegan, and their crazy night takes them from the tomb of Marie Laveau to a decadent party in one of the luxurious mansions of New Orleans. But all nights, even the most special ones, are bound to end, and Zay knew Kee was not to be trusted….
This was so good! So really good! A short story which manages to give a complete psychological insight on both characters, and takes you from indifference to infatuation, despair and finally hope… There is only a drawback, though. Zay and Kee deserve more. A whole book! Please!
4.75 stars
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
Seventeen years old Bonaventure Clarence Bell, Ven for his friends, a young actor playing Hamlet in a TV drama, abandons his mourning mood pining for his ex boyfriend, to face the challenge of fellow actor Farley, the Horatio to his Hamlet. After an intense duel in a Mardi Grass party, Ven finally discovers there are different ways of remembering, and some of them are not bad…
Another amazing story, it perfectly describes the anguish of a heart broken for the first time, the intensity of feelings in the teens and their ability to heal. There is some anguish in this story, but also some hilarious moments and a secondary trope of enemies to lovers… A delicious piece.
4.75 stars
Masked by J.R. Gray
On a Mardi Grass night in Brasil, Heath comes back home pondering some important decisions through an alcoholic haze, when he comes upon a man being beaten by three thugs… When he decides to intervene, he finds out the victim is his lost love, Javier, and all those feelings he's been trying to forget come back as vivid as before...
So far, this is the odd one out. I did not enjoy it as much as the previous ones. There is too much change in moods, inconsistencies in the character's attitudes, lack of explanation everywhere, and this very annoying I-love-but-I-hate-you-but-I-love-you…
2.5 stars
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
Isah is the queen, but her life is suffocating in a golden cage where all his movements are watched over and cared for. Only a night a year she runs away from the castle in search of some real emotion. But this year, Mardi Grass will bring a liberating experience that will probably change her attitude forever
Another really sweet story, about the discovery of the real self and the relief and happiness of being accepted the way you are. It includes F/F/M scenes.
3.5 stars
Touched by Roan Parrish
Philippe Rondeau has the sight, a gift which allows him to get glimpses at the future of the people who touch him. It is Mardi Grass and Philippe is happy, enjoying life and sex and looking forward to the night at his bar Le Corbeau. Meeting Claude, a highly talented musician who seems as besotted with Philippe as Philippe with him seems to make the world perfect. But suddenly his visions turn into the dramatic. It is February 1929 and their world is about to change…
Another charming story about that Carpe Diem feeling… Philippe knows something bad is coming, but meeting Claude turns despair into an overwhelming need to enjoy everything good he can get, and he decides to enjoy every single moment he has of happiness before everything comes to an end…
4 stars
June 2, 2017
Part 1 - Hurricane by Santino Hassell
This story in a quote: “…sex and trouble. Two things that I’d never been a part of. Two things he was presenting to be, with nothing more than a slight upturn of his lips.”
So, I’m just going to put this out there. Contrary to his tagline, Mr. Hassell isn’t just some romance writer at night. He’s the freaking Kingpin of M/M Romance. Capital K. Crime Boss. Period.
In Hurricane, he’s included his trademark collusion of grumpy, introverted MC in a gritty environment with looming danger crossed with a hot love interest and an ‘anything can happen’ hopefulness. His books are usually characterized by scorching sex scenes that are both authentic and a bit different from what you might read from other authors in the genre. Plus he delivers a nuanced inclusion of everyday ‘stuff’ from social media to gaming to…well who knows what you’ll get. Here, you get one but not the other and I’m not saying which.
What makes Hurricane so special is the glorious seduction it entails. More than that, it brings to mind a contemplation on the difference between any ol’ first time and losing one’s virginity. Zay isn’t a literal virgin — he’s had sex before — but he’s never been seduced. Not this way. He finds himself compelled to participate in all of those things that he’s usually observing in other people while he hides in the background. He wakes up the next morning not having ‘lost’ something of himself but having gained a lush, sensual, worldly experience.
I’ve been a fan of Hassell’s, have read just about everything he’s published, and have rated him with all the stars when it was appropriate and not so many stars when something was published prematurely. So, it’ss with no small import that I tell you this: Hurricane might be his best.
Part 2 (If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis)
Probably one of the very best queer YA short stories I have ever, ever, ever, ever read. Ever. I loved this so much.
Ven has just been dumped by the love of his life. No, not dumped. Never dumped. Who would dump Ven? Secretly, they are still in love and have only broken up for convenience and, probably, because why wouldn't this happen, the not-really-the-ex is going to show up to whisk Ven away and they'll go back to being all they ever were. Except, the ex is really the ex, both are actors, Ven is filming a Hamlet for YA's and the ex is on tour and has just told Ven that he *might* have met someone.
The ex is now toast.
But because it's Mardi Gras and because there are actors involved, Ven's nemesis has called a soliloquy-off on all things Shakespeare and this...my goodness...is fabulous. Dear readers, we go from the highest highs to the lowest lows, and there are . It's great. Fabulous. Awesome.
I'm now going to read everything JC Lillis has ever, ever, ever read because I love her now.
For the remaining three. I wish I could say I loved them, that I was moved, that I wanted more. JR Gray's had bust-em-up chops and long-lost lust with plenty of tropey-tropes to pull me in. Kris Ripper's trans man was finally recognized by a couple for who he really is. Roan Parrish got nostalgic and sensual with jazz clubs and some lonely loveliness on being the 3rd in a threesome with a True Love (TM) couple.
Either way, the first 2 stories made getting this book worth it.
This story in a quote: “…sex and trouble. Two things that I’d never been a part of. Two things he was presenting to be, with nothing more than a slight upturn of his lips.”
So, I’m just going to put this out there. Contrary to his tagline, Mr. Hassell isn’t just some romance writer at night. He’s the freaking Kingpin of M/M Romance. Capital K. Crime Boss. Period.
In Hurricane, he’s included his trademark collusion of grumpy, introverted MC in a gritty environment with looming danger crossed with a hot love interest and an ‘anything can happen’ hopefulness. His books are usually characterized by scorching sex scenes that are both authentic and a bit different from what you might read from other authors in the genre. Plus he delivers a nuanced inclusion of everyday ‘stuff’ from social media to gaming to…well who knows what you’ll get. Here, you get one but not the other and I’m not saying which.
What makes Hurricane so special is the glorious seduction it entails. More than that, it brings to mind a contemplation on the difference between any ol’ first time and losing one’s virginity. Zay isn’t a literal virgin — he’s had sex before — but he’s never been seduced. Not this way. He finds himself compelled to participate in all of those things that he’s usually observing in other people while he hides in the background. He wakes up the next morning not having ‘lost’ something of himself but having gained a lush, sensual, worldly experience.
I’ve been a fan of Hassell’s, have read just about everything he’s published, and have rated him with all the stars when it was appropriate and not so many stars when something was published prematurely. So, it’ss with no small import that I tell you this: Hurricane might be his best.
Part 2 (If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis)
Probably one of the very best queer YA short stories I have ever, ever, ever, ever read. Ever. I loved this so much.
Ven has just been dumped by the love of his life. No, not dumped. Never dumped. Who would dump Ven? Secretly, they are still in love and have only broken up for convenience and, probably, because why wouldn't this happen, the not-really-the-ex is going to show up to whisk Ven away and they'll go back to being all they ever were. Except, the ex is really the ex, both are actors, Ven is filming a Hamlet for YA's and the ex is on tour and has just told Ven that he *might* have met someone.
The ex is now toast.
But because it's Mardi Gras and because there are actors involved, Ven's nemesis has called a soliloquy-off on all things Shakespeare and this...my goodness...is fabulous. Dear readers, we go from the highest highs to the lowest lows, and there are . It's great. Fabulous. Awesome.
I'm now going to read everything JC Lillis has ever, ever, ever read because I love her now.
For the remaining three. I wish I could say I loved them, that I was moved, that I wanted more. JR Gray's had bust-em-up chops and long-lost lust with plenty of tropey-tropes to pull me in. Kris Ripper's trans man was finally recognized by a couple for who he really is. Roan Parrish got nostalgic and sensual with jazz clubs and some lonely loveliness on being the 3rd in a threesome with a True Love (TM) couple.
Either way, the first 2 stories made getting this book worth it.
February 6, 2016
When Lead Me Into Darkness came out last year, I was over the moon. Five absolutely incredible authors came together for a themed Halloween anthology, and it was fantastic!
So imagine my happy dance when Follow Me Into Darkness was announced. With a Mardi Gras/Carnivale theme ('tis the season, right?), and from new publisher Open Ink Press, I knew from the start that this was going to be another favorite!
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
Genre: Gay, M/M, Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote:
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
Genre: Gay, M/M, Humor, Contemporary
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote:
Masked by J.R. Gray
Genre: Gay, M/M, Contemporary
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote:
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
Genre: Transgender, Menage, Fantasy/Historical, Romance
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote:
Touched by Roan Parrish
Genre: Gay, M/M, Paranormal, Romance
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote:
Read the full review on Just Love Romance:
So imagine my happy dance when Follow Me Into Darkness was announced. With a Mardi Gras/Carnivale theme ('tis the season, right?), and from new publisher Open Ink Press, I knew from the start that this was going to be another favorite!
Hurricane by Santino Hassell
Genre: Gay, M/M, Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote:
"I--" Despite the chill, I was too warm. My chest too tight. "You're mighty sure of yourself."
"I know." Kee wrinkled his nose. "Aren't I just the most arrogant fuck you've ever met?"
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis
Genre: Gay, M/M, Humor, Contemporary
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote:
"Okay. Don't get mad, but I feel like we weren't... connecting last episode."
"Oh?"
"Yeah, like in scene 3, your mouth said my dear Horatio but your eyes said DIE."
Masked by J.R. Gray
Genre: Gay, M/M, Contemporary
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote:
He was hard and smug. Two of Javier's favorite things.
The Queen’s Reflection by Kris Ripper
Genre: Transgender, Menage, Fantasy/Historical, Romance
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote:
"Sometimes the stories told by our skin restrict us inhumanely," Cassandra said.
Touched by Roan Parrish
Genre: Gay, M/M, Paranormal, Romance
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote:
I wanted to be on Claude as the Spanish moss draped the branches of the live oaks lining the avenues, burrow inside of him like their roots bit down into the earth and wrenched the streets apart. And then he began to play again and it flayed me.
Read the full review on Just Love Romance:
April 4, 2016
For someone who sometimes finds it difficult to lose herself in short stories, I found these stories highly compelling and very enjoyable. Each author was wildly successful in weaving their own unique spin revolving around masques during carnivale throughout the anthology, and more so, no two stories were alike.
Santino Hassell's Hurricane is set during Mardi Gras in modern day New Orleans and perfectly captures the rowdiness, recklessness and romance of a quintessential Mardi Gras night. I ended the tale with a big sigh and yearning for more; Hassell had somehow managed to describe the Mardi Gras night I never knew I wanted, in his funny, biting but somehow romantic way.
While staying true to the masque theme, If We Be Friends by JC Lillis is really a loving tribute to theatre and especially to Shakespeare. I never imagined a Bard-off on paper could leave me stunned and breathless, but she pulls it off with finesse and flair. It was especially beautiful to watch the MCs' dynamics change from hate to grudging respect to flirtation overnight.
Masked by JR Gray is set in steamy Rio during Carnavale and brings together two old friends who parted ways as teenagers. There is undeniable sexual tension and a lot of chemistry between the two men, but what really struck me was that unlike the other stories (in which masks are removed, so to speak), their tale seemed to end with the unspoken promise of them donning masks in hopes of being together.
The Queen's Reflection by Kris Ripper is a beautifully written tale set in another world where a desperately lonely queen dons a disguise to enjoy her annual day of precious freedom amongst the commonfolk. Against her better judgement, she risks revealing her identity to a couple who are also incognito and they an intimate night together. I really enjoyed this story as it left me hopeful for the queen, who is little more than a prisoner of her husband the king and the high expectations of the court.
If you're a fan of Roan Parrish's debut book, the short story Touched reveals a whole other side to her ability to string beautiful and powerful words together. She portrays 1920s New Orleans so hauntingly, and effortlessly evokes such a sense of nostalgia but there's also a realness in her prose even when depicting impossible scenarios. The story of the psychic and the musician is tragic in its beauty, much like the city of New Orleans itself.
Santino Hassell's Hurricane is set during Mardi Gras in modern day New Orleans and perfectly captures the rowdiness, recklessness and romance of a quintessential Mardi Gras night. I ended the tale with a big sigh and yearning for more; Hassell had somehow managed to describe the Mardi Gras night I never knew I wanted, in his funny, biting but somehow romantic way.
While staying true to the masque theme, If We Be Friends by JC Lillis is really a loving tribute to theatre and especially to Shakespeare. I never imagined a Bard-off on paper could leave me stunned and breathless, but she pulls it off with finesse and flair. It was especially beautiful to watch the MCs' dynamics change from hate to grudging respect to flirtation overnight.
Masked by JR Gray is set in steamy Rio during Carnavale and brings together two old friends who parted ways as teenagers. There is undeniable sexual tension and a lot of chemistry between the two men, but what really struck me was that unlike the other stories (in which masks are removed, so to speak), their tale seemed to end with the unspoken promise of them donning masks in hopes of being together.
The Queen's Reflection by Kris Ripper is a beautifully written tale set in another world where a desperately lonely queen dons a disguise to enjoy her annual day of precious freedom amongst the commonfolk. Against her better judgement, she risks revealing her identity to a couple who are also incognito and they an intimate night together. I really enjoyed this story as it left me hopeful for the queen, who is little more than a prisoner of her husband the king and the high expectations of the court.
If you're a fan of Roan Parrish's debut book, the short story Touched reveals a whole other side to her ability to string beautiful and powerful words together. She portrays 1920s New Orleans so hauntingly, and effortlessly evokes such a sense of nostalgia but there's also a realness in her prose even when depicting impossible scenarios. The story of the psychic and the musician is tragic in its beauty, much like the city of New Orleans itself.
November 3, 2016
As usual, I came here because of Santino Hassell. What can I say? I stalk his works and d***ed proud of it! Hurricane was a nice story. I found myself smiling through the events that took place, while resisting the urge to go out for an adventure myself, but I am no Kee.
If We Be Friends, perhaps I was really out of my element here but I felt like I was missing out on a lot. Again. There were references made that I didn't get or follow. That didn't mean I didn't like the story. There was a good story behind this. I just didn't follow every word.
Masked by JR Gray. Now this I would have loved to see more. Perhaps a prequel of some sort. I can feel the romance. I mean really FEEL it and I wanted more. I want more of Heather and Javier! Please? Pretty please? Pretty please with Javier on top?
The Queens Reflection by Kris Ripper. Now this was insightful but I did have some trouble trying to figure out what kind of world this was. Like was it way before our time or way after? Either way, still liked the story well enough.
Touched by Roan Parrish. Now this one had to be my favorite of the anthology (sorry Santino). There is so much I would love to say, but would lead to too many spoilers. So I better keep zipped up about this one. All I can say is, this is my kind of story :)
If We Be Friends, perhaps I was really out of my element here but I felt like I was missing out on a lot. Again. There were references made that I didn't get or follow. That didn't mean I didn't like the story. There was a good story behind this. I just didn't follow every word.
Masked by JR Gray. Now this I would have loved to see more. Perhaps a prequel of some sort. I can feel the romance. I mean really FEEL it and I wanted more. I want more of Heather and Javier! Please? Pretty please? Pretty please with Javier on top?
The Queens Reflection by Kris Ripper. Now this was insightful but I did have some trouble trying to figure out what kind of world this was. Like was it way before our time or way after? Either way, still liked the story well enough.
Touched by Roan Parrish. Now this one had to be my favorite of the anthology (sorry Santino). There is so much I would love to say, but would lead to too many spoilers. So I better keep zipped up about this one. All I can say is, this is my kind of story :)
March 4, 2017
The five tales in Follow Me Into Darkness are entertaining stories of decedence and revelry taking place during Carnival. I was initially attracted to this book because I'm a big fan of Santino Hassell and there were other authors I've been wanting to read, but haven't had the opportunity. Sometimes with anthologies like this, I end up only reading that one story but I am happy to say that once I started Follow Me Into Darkness, I really couldn't put it down, and I ended up devouring this in a night.
There's great variety in the stories told here and I really liked that about Follow Me Into Darkness and I'd be hard pressed to say which was my favorite, although I'm leaning toward The Queen's Reflection, a tale of a very unhappy queen and the friends made during an illicit escape. All of the stories held me interest and had me wanting to know how it would all end.
There is something for everyone in Follow Me Into Darkness. The stories are the exact right size -- not too long or short and while some will leave you wanting more, each story is wrapped up nicely.
Definitely recommended.
ARC provided for review.
There's great variety in the stories told here and I really liked that about Follow Me Into Darkness and I'd be hard pressed to say which was my favorite, although I'm leaning toward The Queen's Reflection, a tale of a very unhappy queen and the friends made during an illicit escape. All of the stories held me interest and had me wanting to know how it would all end.
There is something for everyone in Follow Me Into Darkness. The stories are the exact right size -- not too long or short and while some will leave you wanting more, each story is wrapped up nicely.
Definitely recommended.
ARC provided for review.
March 25, 2016
A good, varied anthology based around Carnivale
I originally purchased this because Santino Hassell is one of my automatic pre-order/one click authors regardless of what he writes. Though I've heard of a couple of the other authors included, I haven't read anything by them yet. Anthologies generally aren't my favorite because I feel like either there isn't enough build or it feels incomplete. I experienced some of that disappointment with a couple of the stories, but I found a few very intriguing. All the writing was very descriptive, at times overly so, but beautiful nonetheless. My favorite was Touched by Roan Parrish. That short story definitely caught my attention, and though I was left wanting more (because it was that good), I didn't feel like the story dropped off either. I'll definitely be reading more by her. If I were to average my ratings of each story, I'd come up with about 3.5 stars. However, since I find a new author to follow, I'm rounding up. I think if any of these authors are a favorite of yours, you'll likely enjoy the entire anthology.
I originally purchased this because Santino Hassell is one of my automatic pre-order/one click authors regardless of what he writes. Though I've heard of a couple of the other authors included, I haven't read anything by them yet. Anthologies generally aren't my favorite because I feel like either there isn't enough build or it feels incomplete. I experienced some of that disappointment with a couple of the stories, but I found a few very intriguing. All the writing was very descriptive, at times overly so, but beautiful nonetheless. My favorite was Touched by Roan Parrish. That short story definitely caught my attention, and though I was left wanting more (because it was that good), I didn't feel like the story dropped off either. I'll definitely be reading more by her. If I were to average my ratings of each story, I'd come up with about 3.5 stars. However, since I find a new author to follow, I'm rounding up. I think if any of these authors are a favorite of yours, you'll likely enjoy the entire anthology.
December 1, 2018
All five of these stories were profoundly different in setting - some taking place in the past, some in the future, one in a fantasy world, and one in Brazil rather than New Orleans.
They were all fairly strong, especially those by J.C. Lillis and Roan Parrish, as well as Kris Ripper's. Hassell's story was ok, but it was very NA without the originality of Lillis'.
Gray's story was the only sour note, it wasn't so much that it was awful as just kinda blah, unrealistic without enough fictional vigor to carry me over disbelief, and seriously outclassed.
They were all fairly strong, especially those by J.C. Lillis and Roan Parrish, as well as Kris Ripper's. Hassell's story was ok, but it was very NA without the originality of Lillis'.
Gray's story was the only sour note, it wasn't so much that it was awful as just kinda blah, unrealistic without enough fictional vigor to carry me over disbelief, and seriously outclassed.
February 7, 2016
I loved four of the five stories in this book, which gives it great odds for a collection of short stories by different authors. The Queen's Reflection in particular was stunning, and brought tears to my eyes. Definitely a book I'll be coming back to.
February 18, 2016
i liked a couple...others were ok.
Currently reading
November 20, 2016Hurricane by Santino Hassell - 4 stars
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis - 4,5 stars
If We Be Friends by J.C. Lillis - 4,5 stars
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January 19, 2017I don't know why I haven't marked this as read.
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