Reads of the Week 7/17/11-7/23/11

Reads of the Week 7/3/11-7/9/11

Teahouse, Chapter 1 (review)

Teahouse by Emirain

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


1st read: 2/4/11

Reread: 7/16/11



Xanthe Atros (aka The Owner) as well as the manager of Teahouse-a brothel he inherited from his father. Within it's walls a colorful and assorted cast of characters make a living as courtesans.



There's Linneus (aka The Doormat); he is the longest running courtesan of the group. He is quiet, reserved, and with a delicate sort of beauty and grace that doesn't manage to hide the indefinable emotions and tension between him and Atros.



Lilith (aka The Bitch) is the top earning female courtesan and one who does her nickname justice by never missing the opportunity to belittle Linneus, especially since she is the one that Atros is currently bedding.



Axis (aka The Womanizer) is the top earning courtesan overall. A hit with the ladies with a wild look and personality; he's currently a favorite of Rhys-a male client who gets a kick out making the 'supposedly straight' Axis submit to his desires.



Rory Dubois (aka The Virgin) is a new addition to Teahouse. Highly prized for his chastity; he is a young shy bishie boy still trying to settle down into his environment, but he is sweet and kind. In the cliffie he comes face to face with a potential suitor-Reed (aka The Mystery Man).



Claret (aka The Ditz) is a simple, big chested, and curvy woman. She manages to do well but finds herself as the cause of Axis' jealousy when Rhys-in one of his visits-picks her instead.



Then there's Mercutio (aka The Freak) a wacky character who obviously enjoys his job, as he is the one who handles the fetishists.



Finally, rounding up the cast is Argent(aka The Bodyguard) who is loyal to Atros.



This is a wonderful introduction, giving a little of each character and an incentive to keep going in order to learn more about them and what lies in their past, present, and future. It's a solid 48 pgs. replete with comedy, drama, and hot man love; the artwork is gorgeous and the artist's fine detail-especially when the guys are getting it on-is just eye popping. So come on into Teahouse, where the fun awaits as soon as you step through the door.



View all my reviews

Yellow 2: Episode 3 (review)

Yellow 2: Episode 3 by Makoto Tateno

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Goh and Taki are back again with another adventure. Sadly, for Goh the case involves his mother-a woman that left him behind to run away with a man. His masters-the men that taught him the tricks of his trade and the ones responsible for raising him-come bearing a note.



The cipher-a musical scale-is one that Goh has to decipher by searching the memory of a hymn his mother used to sing; but first, it's up to Taki to convince Goh to look into it.



Goh tries to deal with old hurts as he gives in and starts looking for what his mother was trying to hide; it brings him face to face with his mother's lover-a man that is obviously desperate for whatever's hidden away.



A nice short read. It was great to get a glimpse of Goh's past, and of course it's Yellow so there's some action-wailing on the bad guy and each other-and some hot sex (in a church!). Don't know if there's more to come from these 2, but I'm seriously hoping their adventures continue.











View all my reviews

Butterfly of the Distant Day (review)

Butterfly of the Distant Day by Tooko Miyagi

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


****Midsummer's Distance: In the opening story we get a peek at how Riya and Atsushi are doing. The guys, while doing well, are having some trouble dealing with the distance and financial inbalance Riya's career creates. This all comes about because of a broken a/c. The weather is HOT, and Atsushi's a/c breaks down. Unfortunately he holds back on purchasing another, he's trying to save in order to maybe go with Riya but he feels that he'll never reach that goal no matter how much he works to save. He gets a surprise when he discovers Riya has come for a surprise visit and learning that it's not possible for Atsushi to get a new a/c, he volunteers to buy it. Atsushi is bothered by this and after trying to deal with it by having some sexy and meltingly hot (literally & figuratively) sex. They finally talk and come to an understanding about what's going on between them and they both split the cost for a new a/c.



****Butterfly of the Distant Day: This story focuses on Saki-Riya's cousin. They are going to spend the summer at a cottage, where both of them will take part in a concert. But this place holds painful memories for Saki, as it is the place where he was involved in his first affair with another student-Irving...who just happens to be in charge of the concert. As a teen, Irving warns Saki to be careful of the musical director (Mr. Foreman)-who even though he was married, had flings with his students.



Out of curiousity, Saki asks Irving to show him what it means to be with another guy since he's never even thought about it. Their affair comes to a bitter end because of a severe misunderstanding; Saki feels that Irving was just using him as a replacement because he's still in love with a lover from his past, and Irving thinks that Saki is with him because having sex with a man is still a novelty to him.



Now that Saki and Irving are reunited, Irving plans a trap to lure Saki back into his arms. But Saki once again misinterprets the situation. It is Riya who finds the key piece that will finally make Saki realize the truth of Irving's feelings; and it will be up to Saki to create the notes that will finally complete the composition that will bring them together.



****Both Night and Afternoon: Saki wants more from Irving, yet he discovers that being drunk might have loosened his tongue more than he intended and brought upon a tighter bond that he anticipated.



***On a Sunny Day: A little meeting between the musical director Foreman, who has a little fun teasing Irving; but Irving puts one over the director by calling Saki in front of him, asking him to wait in the lobby and inviting him to dinner.



This was a beautiful spin-off to Il Gatto Sul G; I managed to get reacquainted with Riya and Atsushi and finally learned a little more about Saki. I was happy to see Riya doing so well after everything he dealt with; it was pleasant to watch him play around and actually have fun. As for Saki and Irving, I like their story. It was kind of painful watching them hurt it each other and be so at odds, but it was so sweet how they finally got together. I always savor Miyagi-sensei's art. There's just something so delicate and ephemeral about it that just fills me with warmth.



View all my reviews

Rabbit Man, Tiger Man v. 1 (review)

Rabbit Man, Tiger Man Volume 1 by Akira Honma

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! *phew* Okay, now that this moment of yaoi fangirling has been taken care of, I can happily say that I loved this! Ever since I learned that this series was being licenced by June, I have been waiting eagerly for it.



Uzuki is a timid and sweet man, a surgeon that heading home follows the cries of mewling cat only to find a man bleeding in an alley. The man with the huge tiger tattoo on his back seems shady; still Uzuki tries to assist him, but the injured man refuses to go to the hospital. He asks for Uzuki's phone to call for someone to pick him up, and then tells Uzuki he should go. Uzuki actions remind the man of a rabbit before he loses consciousness once again.



Uzuki feeling bad about running away and leaving someone hurt, goes back with some supplies from the hospital he works at and treats the guy's wound. Convinced he's done his best, he walks away leaving his coat behind.



Nonami is one of the heads of a crime organization. He is attacked by someone who sees him as a rival for the organization's leadership-as he later learns his boss is dying of cancer, and so that's how he manages to get injured and left for dead. Not really lucid when someone comes to his aid, he mistakes Uzuki's name for Suzuki. Armed with this name and knowledge that his 'nightingale' works at the nearby hospital, he makes his cousin fake an illness so that he'll be admitted as a patient-a ruse to grant Nonami the access he needs in order to find his Suzuki.



But something's not right, as his tiger tattoo tingles every time Uzuki is close; his instincts are telling him that his nightingale might not be a woman at all. Yet he has to tread carefully because his enemies are moving, and he has to keep Uzuki out of harms way.



I find Honma-sensei's work so pleasurable. Her Semes are always 'bad boy' types; they have such intensity and there's always this hint of darkness to their personalities. Nonami is no exception, but I like that he has this soft and playful side too. Although a man involved in a shady business and a killers instinct, he's also a man who loves animals and likes family movies e.g. Heidi and A Dog of Flanders. Uzuki is just fun to watch; his reactions, particularly with Nonami are just hilarious. He's just a ball of nervous energy the whole way through, poor guy must drop dead tired every time he sleeps.



I'm excited for the 2nd. volume but it's a little ways away-it doesn't come out 'til Oct.; so I guess I'll just content myself rereading this until then. :)



View all my reviews

Tale of the Waning Moon v. 2 (review)

Tale of the Waning Moon, Vol. 2 by Hyouta Fujiyama

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


So we find Ryuka and company on the road to the moon, where Ixto-the Last Quarter Moon Spirit-is eagerly awaiting Ryuka's arrival. Of course this road is paved with obstacles-or more like comical misadventures-that make the journey a little bumpy along the way.



The first comes in the form of a cave that they must enter as within it's depths lies the 'Door to the Moon', which is the only way to get there. But warnings of young men-like Ryuka and Aldin-disappearing and never seen again make the group wary of going in.



Once inside, they're suprised to discover another Moon Spirit-Widow-who seems to have a bone to pick with Ixto; yet the story there isn't revealed quite just yet. Aldin however discovers something about Ral's curse. As it turns out he himself is under a spell and Widow hints 'That which has been cast on you and the horse cannot be undone on the moon' and in a contradictory move he wants to bargain with Aldin saying that it isn't impossible but that if he lays with him in front of Ral he'll do it--of course Widow gets turned down. With no way of keeping them as pets for his pleasure-due to both being spelled-Widow lets them go.



Finally able to get to the door, the group realizes it's not so simple as the door is chained and there are a set of particular items they must acquire in order to get through. One of the items is already at hand (some of poor Coon's tail hair), another is in Aldin's family's possession (Breath of the Fire Dragon) and the rest they have to seek out (One platter of burning wind, one sprig of peach pearls, and a sack of seven colored balls).



A helping hand reveals another of the articles (the sprig of peach pearls), but the owner makes a deal that brings the group into contact with the twin nemesis, Kapel & Qwen (see vol. 1). It's a close call for Ryuka and Al who have to use their manly wiles on them to grab the eye patches the twins wear; but Ixto, using Cymric w/Coon's assist rescue the guys.



With another item in their grasp they head out to Aldin's home to request the Breath of the Fire Dragon from Aldin's father and while Ryuka is a little taken aback by the obvious love they have for Aldin, he finds himself the object of displeasure of one of Al's older brothers, Mashura, who appears to hate him on sight. It's here that we are left with a major cliffhanger; Mashura, with the excuse of walking out Ryuka so that Al can spend time with his parents, kicks him out and claims that Ryuka will not be allowed inside again!



This was a nice and fun follow up; there's some progress with Ryuka's feelings and his journey. Aldin, now that he's learned a little more about Ral's & his curse might be on the verge of discovering who is behind it all and why. Coon-my fave character, provided some cuteness (his adult form is very sexy) and Ixto was being his sexy helpful self. There's a side story of a pair of minor characters (hopefully that story continues as well) as well as 2 extra short stories of Ryuka and Co.: Tale of the Moonlit Night 1 & 2 with the guys doing cosplay. ;)



View all my reviews

The Betrayal Knows My Name #1 (review)

The Betrayal Knows My Name, Volume 1 by Hotaru Odagiri

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Yuki Sakurai is afraid of being alone and unwanted-abandoned at an orphanage at birth-it is his greatest fear. Already a high schooler, he is trying to seek a place of his own to avoid being a burden to those that cared for him, especially now that threatening letters are being left at the orphanage's mail box.



A sweet and kind hearted teen, he feels different from those around him; with dreams that plague him constantly but has no memory of when he wakes and a strange empathic power that he feels is more a hindrance than a help.



Suddenly things in Yuki's life are changing; a friend is in peril, his powers are evolving, he discovers he has an 'elder brother' who has located him after several years and wants him back home, and he meets others with powers of their own.



Yuki is happy to finally belong, even if it is as a part of the Giou clan-a group with mystical powers who destroy demons. But his instant bond with Luka is both comforting and intruiging, and makes him wonder why Luka is always looking out for him and his safety.



Yet not everything is what it seems; events are unfolding that put the world at risk and Yuki's life as well. Because Yuki is the Light of God-a healer and the strength of the clan and the Duras (demons) will do everything in their power to destroy him.



I'll admit I was completely surprised when I saw this...and truly pleased as well, the manga is 360+ pgs. long, which is a little rare in graphic novels (at least from what I've seen)so it gave me something to really sink my teeth into. The cover is very fetching and colorful as well as the beautiful inserts and that was enough to have me starry eyed. You get a few bonuses; including an afterword, a fan corner, a terms & character lexicon, a fan corner autograph session report, as well as 2 extra short stories. There are many characters introduced, but my favorite of course is Luka with Hotsuma running a close second-he's just so fiery! There's some mysteries, secrets, and comedy that made this a joy to read, so I'm definitely hanging on to see what comes next.



View all my reviews

Hexed [IDC, #2] (review)

Hexed by Kevin Hearne

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Atticus loves nothing more than a peaceful morning, working at his store, communing with the earth, training his apprentice, and going on long runs with Oberon; unfortunately for him, trouble seems to be the serving of the day.



Aside from having to deal with a coven of nasty witches that are trying to take over East Valley-a territory it seems now is his to protect, there's the sudden attention of Gods trying to make him the weapon of choice to rid themselves of rivals-this after taking down Aenghus Og and Bres (with a bit of help, of course).



Then there's the fact that he's the prize catch between 2 Goddesses fighting for rule in Tir na nOg. Finally there's a few Bacchants intent on mayhem, a mysterious pair of strangers with a secret agenda, and a detective on his tail. With more trouble than he can handle on his own, Atticus has to make some risky bargains in order to take care of business. It goes to show that a Druid's work is never done.



Hexed is a wonderful continuation of Atticus' adventures. It has a great mix of action-both physical and magical; awesome characters-Leif trying to be cool was hilariously comical and who would've thought it of Mr. Semerdjian, and of course we can't leave out Oberon, Atticus' witty hound. A sneak peek at Hammered already has me revved up for more of Atticus' and Oberon's antics and adventures.



View all my reviews

Hounded [IDC, #1] (review)

Hounded by Kevin Hearne

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I so thoroughly enjoyed this! Atticus and Oberon are awesome-their relationship and bond is so strong you can't separate them, and their conversations were just hilarious-from sausage scented fresheners to a french poodle harem; not to mention their penchant for attracting the attention of several goddesses.



There was an eclectic abundance of characters, each one important in their own way as the story unfolds. I liked the fact that there's enough backstory and info to move the story along w/o dragging it down. Great world building, with lots of action, and very likeable and memorable characters.



Definitely a series that's going on my Favorites list!











View all my reviews

Reads of the Week 6/5/11-6/11/11

Dark Horse [Dark Horse, #1] (review)

Dark Horse by Kate Sherwood

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This is a story of a man trying to cope with the loss of a great love, and finding the strength to let go. Dan is not looking for anyone new, he works with horses and he is content with that. Then two men stride into his life and suddenly he is offered a second chance at happiness.



I loved this story and especially Dan, he just pulled so many emotions out of me-he is a character that will stay with me for a long time that's for sure.



What I liked about this novel in particular is that he is not thrown straight into bed w/Evan & Jeff and the usual happily ever after that follows. There's the emotional struggles that Dan and the other two men have to go through before coming to terms with this new attraction.



There's tension, sexual and otherwise. Tumultuous emotions rattle this men, and you wonder what's in store for them, and whether it will work out or not in the end.



A beautiful and emotionally gripping novel. I'm very much looking forward to reading their continuing story in Out of the Darkness.





View all my reviews

I Love You, Asshole! (review)

I Love You, Asshole! by Amy Lane

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This story was at turns frustrating as well as bittersweet. Marcus is the 'nice guy' not willing to push Phillip after realizing his feelings; and Phillip is trying to understand his relationship with Marcus and going about it in a way that seems to do more harm than good.



Usually I feel a little daunted by polyamorous relationships or orgies in the stories I read, yet the one in this story made me think of how puppies/kittens pile together. I saw it as their way of trying to cope with their immense loss; it wasn't about gratification but connection and togetherness.



So while these guys had me cussing at them, and pulling out my hair, I really enjoyed it.



View all my reviews

Lorcan's Desire [A Whispering Pines Ranch Novel, #1] (review)

Lorcan's Desire by S.J.D. Peterson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This series has a great start; with a set of strong characters and an emotionally packed storyline. While I was surprised at what happens w/the MCs, I think it actually works out well. It wasn't an HEA and maybe not even HFN b/c I think Lorcan's and Quinn's feelings were not tied in a perfect bow; even though the choices, Lorcan's anyway, were settled, his feelings for Quinn weren't.



Lorcan's a great character, he's unpretentious and open with his emotions. Quinn on the other hand, knows who he is but prefers to hide it to keep his town's acceptance and approval, it's the hardest battle he fights within himself. He realizes too late that his decision will be the cause of pain and heartbreak, not just for himself but Lorcan as well. Jess by far, is my favorite character (along with Conner, he's just so wonderfully awesome!). I love the way he loves, and how easy going and truly kind he is-he just makes me want to cuddle him. His openness and devotion to Lorcan was just beautiful.



For me this was a story of Lorcan's discovery and learning; he discovers the truth about himself, but he also learns that loving someone sometimes isn't about what your heart wants, but what it needs. Now I can't wait to read what lessons are in store for Quinn.



View all my reviews

Reads of the Week 5/29/11-6/4/11

Dreamlands [Dreamlands #1] (review)

Dreamlands by Felicitas Ivey

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The author's writing style was so fluid that I was midway through the book before I realized it. She gives you a look into the beauty and violence of ancient Japan in the setting of this story, the Dreamlands.

Keno is a bright young man that due to a careless mistake is kept captive in a covert government agency that deals with the monsters and we're not talking about werewolves and vampires here, but oni (demons). Badly mistreated he finds a freedom of sorts when he ends up in the Dreamlands where he meets Samojirou-an oni. Their relationship grows slowly but steadily and is threatened when Keno's captors find their way into the Dreamlands intent on its destruction.



There is mentions of violence and abuse but although there is mild petting there is no actual intercourse between the main characters which, for me at least, enriches their relationship making it a real love story. It brings to the forefront that sometimes true evil wears a human face and that just because it looks like a monster doesn't mean it has the heart of one.







View all my reviews

Infected: Bloodlines (review)

Infected: Bloodlines by Andrea Speed

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Whether books or films, I cry easily when it comes to tragi-dramas, or any sad story really; which is why I was giving this novel the run around. I knew I was most likely missing out on something wonderful b/c I love Andrea's writing, her extraordinary worlds, and particularly these characters.



Finally gathering some courage, and a handful of Kleenex, I picked this up. From the beginning I felt like I was holding my breath, the waiting making me wish for the whole bandaid thing yet at the same time happy to enjoy Par a little longer. The case Roan works on-involving a friend of Max who goes missing, then turns up dead-while a little interesting felt anticlimactic at the end, but it felt sort of fitting somehow b/c it didn't overshadow the events that were transpiring in Roan's life-at least, that's my opinion (maybe I was just too focused on Roan and Paris).



It is a bittersweet story; and while it was painful and sad, I understood Paris' decision. His worry for Roan, was just heartbreaking. He is such a an exceptional character and such a part of Roan it will feel strange to have one w/o the other; but of course, Paris being Paris, he will find a way to make his presence known.



So-after all the tears and the drama-I'm glad I read this great follow-up to Infected: Prey.





View all my reviews