Honorable Mentions: One Perfect Score:
I'd like to encourage you all to check the following titles, with 481 submissions and only few categories, we couldn't award all the authors and novels who deserved it. The following were the jury favorites who didn't make the cut.
Honorable Mention:
Adam Fitzroy - Ghost Station
On the plus side - sex is not the main part of the story. The author keeps it mostly behind the scenes thus giving readers enough tiny details to picture the best parts on their own. -Tessa
Set in the 1970s, British Intelligence meets its world match as they search for a missing servant of the Crown, unaware of the real dangers as real and as present as a breath. -Tame
65,000 words/262 pages
Publication 1 November 2011
Allison Cassatta - Patient Privilege
I really enjoyed reading this book. The author did a great job of addressing the issue of addiction and how the struggles that those with additions face. The plot was well developed and the author’s writing style made the story that much more engaging and easier to read. The character development was great and I truly enjoyed reading the story. Definitely a book I would recommend to fellow readers. -Danielle
Publisher: Silver Publishing (August 18, 2012)
Amazon Kindle: Patient Privilege
Amy Lane - Clear Water
Amy Lane writes with wit as well as a huge dose of empathy in this novel about a young man with ADHD. She never fails to give us entertaining and memorable characters, deep emotion, and food for thought as well. -Bobby
Paperback: 230 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (September 16, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613721919
ISBN-13: 978-1613721919
Amazon: Clear Water
Belinda McBride - When I Fall
I really liked these two guys in the first story so was glad to see them again. Things don't go easy for them of course but the author really pulled me into the story and i couldn't wait to see how things played out. -Lyne
Publisher: Loose Id LLC (October 10, 2011)
Amazon Kindle: When I Fall
Charlie Cochrane - Lessons for Survivors
Reading this book felt like I was reading Agatha Christie's Poirot books again but with more humor. It is a sweet cozy mystery and that genre is known for rich plots and details but also for its slower pace. It not a book for everyone but people who love cozies will love this. -Amberly
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Cheyenne Publishing (July 15, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1937692140
ISBN-13: 978-1937692148
Amazon: Lessons for Survivors
Chris Quinton - Fox Hunt
The relationships between the characters kept me reading and was definitely enjoyable to read. The characters were memorable well after the story ended. -April O.
There was a lot to enjoy in this story, a slow unraveling of the love-interest's identity, a dysfunctional but still loving family, the story being set in a believable, if not particularly detailed world of antiques and art restoration. A nice romp without angst, and with a rather cheesy, but rather satisfying for all that, ending. -Michelle
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Manifold Press (1 February 2012)
Language: English
Chris Quinton - Game On, Game Over
I really enjoyed the intrigue and the action; the relationship between John / Aidan and Scott was well done, their personalities well-defined. Game On, Game Over is a story that I can read over and over again. Chris Quinton, a new-to-me author, is now on my list of authors whose books I want to read. -Kathy
Publisher: Silver Publishing (October 8, 2011)
Amazon Kindle: Game On, Game Over
Collin Kelley - Remain In Light (
)
Very well written, the style was to tell the story, with all the quirks which the characters carried throughout the tale and let them act as they saw fit, which they certainly did. I liked the book throughout. -Mick
Paperback: 284 pages
Publisher: Vanilla Heart Publishing (January 5, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1937227413
ISBN-13: 978-1937227418
Amazon: Remain in Light
Dorien Grey - The Peripheral Son
Call me old fashioned, but this was a great, yet traditional read. Hardesty is sent into a murder/mystery while revealing pieces of himself and a happy, normal domestic and gay life. It’s subtle but steady. Excellent! It keeps your attention and contains enough twists that every time you think you have it… You don’t! -Alisha
Paperback: 252 pages
Publisher: Zumaya Boundless (October 31, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1936144107
ISBN-13: 978-1936144105
Amazon: The Peripheral Son
Dusk Peterson - Law of Vengeance
I will definitely be reading the other stories in the world, I enjoyed it very much! -Cole
Publisher: Love in Dark Settings Press (August 14, 2012)
Amazon Kindle: Law of Vengeance (The Three Lands)
Eden Winters - Diversion
Wow! This is definitely one of the best books I read this year. It has all the elements of the "perfect read. This book is my first by this author but as soon I send this email I am off to check the on-line bookstore for more. -Tessa
Paperback: 202 pages
Publisher: Amber Quill Press, LLC (April 5, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1611249201
ISBN-13: 978-1611249200
Amazon: Diversion
Elizabeth Noble - Together Bound (
)
Great story. Readers need to read the series in order to get the full flavor of the characters. -Lyne
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (October 10, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613721587
ISBN-13: 978-1613721582
Amazon: Together Bound
Erastes - Junction X
Compelling enigmatic story that portrays the anguish of two men in the 1960s. Erastes's subtle style of writing in no way undermines the tragedy that unfolds. -Susan
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Cheyenne Publishing (November 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 193769206X
ISBN-13: 978-1937692063
Amazon: Junction X
Eric Arvin - Galley Proof
I loved this book with all my mushy, comedic heart. I was surprised at each chapter at where this story would lead. Sometimes it would seem silly, but then Arvin would pull it together logically and realistically. Bravo! It was the perfect mix of angst, humor, edginess that kept me tied to it. -Alisha
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (January 13, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613723334
ISBN-13: 978-1613723333
Amazon: Galley Proof
Erica Pike - Absolutely Eric
Love love love this one!! Eric was sassy and adorable, Alex was charming and they way they got together was smoking hot! I've already re-read this one and no doubt will again!! -Anna
Paperback: 264 pages
Publisher: MLR Press (May 11, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1608206599
ISBN-13: 978-1608206599
Amazon: Absolutely Eric
Ethan Stone - Subject 13
This one was really great! -Wendy
Paperback: 208 pages
Publisher: Amber Quill Press, LLC (April 5, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1611249198
ISBN-13: 978-1611249194
Amazon: Subject 13
Gene Gant - The Thunder in His Head
At first I didn’t think I would like this book but in the end it turned out to be a great read that I know I will read again. It was a book that when I had to put it down and do something else I still wondered about Kyle and what he was going through. The problems he faced were realistic and I could imagine a normal kid going through. -Norma
This felt like a young man telling his story, i.e. the writing style and character of the main character worked well. I liked that it was not a happy ever after ending but a hopefully happy-for-now which was appropriate for a teen. -Rachel T.
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Harmony Ink Press (May 15, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613725728
ISBN-13: 978-1613725726
Amazon: The Thunder in His Head
J.L. Merrow - Wight Mischief
The setting was the strongest part of the story. I liked that you had natives, occasional visitors and a newcomer to the island. There was a variety of historical and natural settings and it really served the story. It made me interested in visiting the place. -Kirsten
Paperback: 272 pages
Publisher: Samhain Publishing (September 4, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1609288033
ISBN-13: 978-1609288037
Amazon: Wight Mischief
Jordan Castillo Price - Magic Mansion (
)
I obviously loved it. It's far better than half the published books out there. I'm actually going to read more of this author. -Ryan
What a fun book! -Stacia
Paperback: 350 pages
Publisher: JCP Books (May 4, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935540483
ISBN-13: 978-1935540489
Amazon: Magic Mansion
Joseph R. G. DeMarco - Crimes on Latimer (
)
I am not usually a fan of mysteries... but this was so well written I enjoyed it. I could find no flaws in the work... I'm not converted to suddenly loving mysteries, but have gained a huge respect for Mr. DeMarco's writing. -Cherie
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Lethe Press (March 13, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1590213742
ISBN-13: 978-1590213742
Amazon: Crimes on Latimer: From the Early Cases of Marco Fontana
Julie Bozza - The Butterfly Hunter
Both main characters in this story were fantastic to read. Their journey together made the pages keep turning for me. -April O.
Paperback: 242 pages
Publisher: Manifold Press (1 August 2012)
Language: English
K.C. Burn - Cop Out
Loved this book. The peek inside the head of this cop as he discovers his true sexuality is just awesome. -Lex
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 18, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613722133
ISBN-13: 978-1613722138
Amazon: Cop Out
K.E. Payne - me@you.com
I enjoyed the British slang and setting, and I thought the main character's confusion was well portrayed. -Cassandra
Reading level: Ages 13 and up
Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Bold Strokes Books (January 17, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1602825920
ISBN-13: 978-1602825925
Amazon: me@you.com
K.T. Grant - Cinderella and The Lady (
)
A wonderful retelling of the Cinderella story with gay blades and gayer maidens trying to get what they want plus a few more tidbits about the evil stepmother and how she is punished at the end. -Mick
This was a fun read, a clever lesbian take on the Cinderella story that takes some Once Upon a Time liberties with the original tale. It was nicely written and an easy, breezy, romantic read. -Sally
Publisher: Ravenous Romance (July 23, 2012)
Amazon Kindle: Cinderella and the Lady
Kate McMurray - Out in the Field
I really liked this book; it was fun, edgy, heartbreaking and a story that found very difficult to put down. The author brought to life the pain, frustration, and difficulty surrounding gay athletes in traditional 'macho' sports-a very timely issue today. Kate McMurray is another author whose books I'll be looking for. -Kathy
Far and away the best book I read for the Rainbow Awards this year - I hope it finishes very high because it deserves it! -Dan
Publisher: Loose Id LLC (April 23, 2012)
Amazon Kindle: Out in the Field
Lisa Worrall - Unshakeable Faith
For me this was a really good and interesting story to read. It sucked you in and was easy to follow. I loved the interaction and emotion between all the characters. I know it will be a story I will want to read more than once. -Norma
Paperback: 250 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 28, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613722672
ISBN-13: 978-1613722671
Amazon: Unshakeable Faith
Neil Plakcy - Mi Amor
Plakcy has long been one of my favorite writers and this book is up to his usual standard of excellence. The writing is vivid and clear and never gets in the way of the story. I felt as if I were present every step of the way traveling the story path right beside the wonderfully developed characters. -Kimber
Paperback: 252 pages
Publisher: Loose Id, LLC (January 19, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1611183790
ISBN-13: 978-1611183795
Amazon: Mi Amor
Q. Kelly - All in the Family
Two young ladies become step-sisters and fall in love despite the meddling and manipulation of the wicked step mother. -Debra
Paperback: 198 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (January 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1468104268
ISBN-13: 978-1468104264
Amazon: All in the Family
R.J. Scott - The Gallows Tree
A wonderful story. A good bit of mystery in trying to figure out what was going on with voices. Add the clear tension over Vince and how bad it was for Cody. The development for him from terrified man who could barely talk to people to a man loved and in love, and best of all with no more worries about Vince. -Pat
Paperback: 324 pages
Publisher: Silver Publishing (December 22, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1614954704
ISBN-13: 978-1614954705
Amazon: The Gallows Tree
Rob Byrnes - Holy Rollers
I thought long and hard before assigning such high ratings, especially this early, but in the end I believe this is an exceptionally fine book. At the outset, the writing style and characters felt reminiscent of Ross Thomas and his Voodoo, Ltd. books (admittedly favorites of mine) - being rather sly and witty in setting up its anti-heroes, their colleagues and their caper. However, as the story progressed, it became clear to me that the author has an original voice and a deft hand with humor and, in some cases, outright farce (complete with bedroom scene). I think this book is a winner. -Melissa
Paperback: 264 pages
Publisher: Bold Strokes Books (November 15, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1602825785
ISBN-13: 978-1602825789
Amazon: Holy Rollers
Rodney Ross - The Cool Part of His Pillow
I found this book to be an emotional and very realistic story of one man's journey towards the acceptance of the loss of his life partner. Rodney's writing was crisp and believable as he brought Barry through a year of pain and confusion to reach a place where he was ready to start to live again. I thoroughly recommend this book. -Rosie
Paperback: 340 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (May 14, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613725043
ISBN-13: 978-1613725047
Amazon: The Cool Part of His Pillow
Sara York - Torn To Shreds
WOW!!! What a journey, I was held captive by this story from the beginning to the end. At times I was on the edge of my seat, Sara York really knows how to not only build up the intensity of the story but also how to keep it up. The word building was fabulous in portraying not only what was happening now but what had happened previously without any graphic gory detail. Well done!!! -Helen
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Amazon Kindle: Torn To Shreds
Scott Alexander Hess - Bergdorf Boys
This is pure literary fiction. Descriptions are wonderful, writing style is lyric.
Paperback: 248 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (December 3, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1467907510
ISBN-13: 978-1467907514
Amazon: Bergdorf Boys
Shira Anthony - The Melody Thief
Very beautiful descriptions, of both the location (Italy, this time) and of the music. The characters were very well developed. I loved seeing the changes in Cary, he was a different person by the end. I enjoy when the 'I Love You's' occur before the end of a story, so that you can see the couple cope with life. I found myself disappointed when I reached the end, not because of the story, but because it was over. -Valerie
The characters are richly drawn and the plot intricately woven like the very songs this book centers around. Like a melody that you can't get out of your head long after the song has ended, this book stayed with me for days after. Superbly written. --Lori
Paperback: 230 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (August 24, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613726945
ISBN-13: 978-1613726945
Amazon: The Melody Thief
Syd McGinley - Twice-Caught (
)
I have to say that this was one of the best books I've ever read. The world that McGinley created is rich and fully developed. The characters are nuanced and never fail to surprise you. Even after putting the book down the characters didn't leave my thoughts. A reader wouldn't need much background to get sucked right into this gem. -Shanna
Paperback: 270 pages
Publisher: Torquere Press (September 28, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1610405579
ISBN-13: 978-1610405577
Amazon: Twice-Caught
Z. Allora - Tied Together (
)
This is the part of the Dark Angels series and was one story i was really looking forward to. I loved these two and the author really made me want them to find their HEA. This story should not be missed. -Lyne
Paperback: 216 pages
Publisher: MLR Press (January 6, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1608205738
ISBN-13: 978-1608205738
Amazon: The Dark Angels: Tied Together
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Honorable Mention:
Adam Fitzroy - Ghost Station
On the plus side - sex is not the main part of the story. The author keeps it mostly behind the scenes thus giving readers enough tiny details to picture the best parts on their own. -Tessa
Set in the 1970s, British Intelligence meets its world match as they search for a missing servant of the Crown, unaware of the real dangers as real and as present as a breath. -Tame
65,000 words/262 pages
Publication 1 November 2011
Allison Cassatta - Patient Privilege
I really enjoyed reading this book. The author did a great job of addressing the issue of addiction and how the struggles that those with additions face. The plot was well developed and the author’s writing style made the story that much more engaging and easier to read. The character development was great and I truly enjoyed reading the story. Definitely a book I would recommend to fellow readers. -Danielle
Publisher: Silver Publishing (August 18, 2012)
Amazon Kindle: Patient Privilege
Amy Lane - Clear Water
Amy Lane writes with wit as well as a huge dose of empathy in this novel about a young man with ADHD. She never fails to give us entertaining and memorable characters, deep emotion, and food for thought as well. -Bobby
Paperback: 230 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (September 16, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613721919
ISBN-13: 978-1613721919
Amazon: Clear Water
Belinda McBride - When I Fall
I really liked these two guys in the first story so was glad to see them again. Things don't go easy for them of course but the author really pulled me into the story and i couldn't wait to see how things played out. -Lyne
Publisher: Loose Id LLC (October 10, 2011)
Amazon Kindle: When I Fall
Charlie Cochrane - Lessons for Survivors
Reading this book felt like I was reading Agatha Christie's Poirot books again but with more humor. It is a sweet cozy mystery and that genre is known for rich plots and details but also for its slower pace. It not a book for everyone but people who love cozies will love this. -Amberly
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Cheyenne Publishing (July 15, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1937692140
ISBN-13: 978-1937692148
Amazon: Lessons for Survivors
Chris Quinton - Fox Hunt
The relationships between the characters kept me reading and was definitely enjoyable to read. The characters were memorable well after the story ended. -April O.
There was a lot to enjoy in this story, a slow unraveling of the love-interest's identity, a dysfunctional but still loving family, the story being set in a believable, if not particularly detailed world of antiques and art restoration. A nice romp without angst, and with a rather cheesy, but rather satisfying for all that, ending. -Michelle
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Manifold Press (1 February 2012)
Language: English
Chris Quinton - Game On, Game Over
I really enjoyed the intrigue and the action; the relationship between John / Aidan and Scott was well done, their personalities well-defined. Game On, Game Over is a story that I can read over and over again. Chris Quinton, a new-to-me author, is now on my list of authors whose books I want to read. -Kathy
Publisher: Silver Publishing (October 8, 2011)
Amazon Kindle: Game On, Game Over
Collin Kelley - Remain In Light (
)
Very well written, the style was to tell the story, with all the quirks which the characters carried throughout the tale and let them act as they saw fit, which they certainly did. I liked the book throughout. -Mick
Paperback: 284 pages
Publisher: Vanilla Heart Publishing (January 5, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1937227413
ISBN-13: 978-1937227418
Amazon: Remain in Light
Dorien Grey - The Peripheral Son
Call me old fashioned, but this was a great, yet traditional read. Hardesty is sent into a murder/mystery while revealing pieces of himself and a happy, normal domestic and gay life. It’s subtle but steady. Excellent! It keeps your attention and contains enough twists that every time you think you have it… You don’t! -Alisha
Paperback: 252 pages
Publisher: Zumaya Boundless (October 31, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1936144107
ISBN-13: 978-1936144105
Amazon: The Peripheral Son
Dusk Peterson - Law of Vengeance
I will definitely be reading the other stories in the world, I enjoyed it very much! -Cole
Publisher: Love in Dark Settings Press (August 14, 2012)
Amazon Kindle: Law of Vengeance (The Three Lands)
Eden Winters - Diversion
Wow! This is definitely one of the best books I read this year. It has all the elements of the "perfect read. This book is my first by this author but as soon I send this email I am off to check the on-line bookstore for more. -Tessa
Paperback: 202 pages
Publisher: Amber Quill Press, LLC (April 5, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1611249201
ISBN-13: 978-1611249200
Amazon: Diversion
Elizabeth Noble - Together Bound (
)
Great story. Readers need to read the series in order to get the full flavor of the characters. -Lyne
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (October 10, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613721587
ISBN-13: 978-1613721582
Amazon: Together Bound
Erastes - Junction X
Compelling enigmatic story that portrays the anguish of two men in the 1960s. Erastes's subtle style of writing in no way undermines the tragedy that unfolds. -Susan
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Cheyenne Publishing (November 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 193769206X
ISBN-13: 978-1937692063
Amazon: Junction X
Eric Arvin - Galley Proof
I loved this book with all my mushy, comedic heart. I was surprised at each chapter at where this story would lead. Sometimes it would seem silly, but then Arvin would pull it together logically and realistically. Bravo! It was the perfect mix of angst, humor, edginess that kept me tied to it. -Alisha
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (January 13, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613723334
ISBN-13: 978-1613723333
Amazon: Galley Proof
Erica Pike - Absolutely Eric
Love love love this one!! Eric was sassy and adorable, Alex was charming and they way they got together was smoking hot! I've already re-read this one and no doubt will again!! -Anna
Paperback: 264 pages
Publisher: MLR Press (May 11, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1608206599
ISBN-13: 978-1608206599
Amazon: Absolutely Eric
Ethan Stone - Subject 13
This one was really great! -Wendy
Paperback: 208 pages
Publisher: Amber Quill Press, LLC (April 5, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1611249198
ISBN-13: 978-1611249194
Amazon: Subject 13
Gene Gant - The Thunder in His Head
At first I didn’t think I would like this book but in the end it turned out to be a great read that I know I will read again. It was a book that when I had to put it down and do something else I still wondered about Kyle and what he was going through. The problems he faced were realistic and I could imagine a normal kid going through. -Norma
This felt like a young man telling his story, i.e. the writing style and character of the main character worked well. I liked that it was not a happy ever after ending but a hopefully happy-for-now which was appropriate for a teen. -Rachel T.
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Harmony Ink Press (May 15, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613725728
ISBN-13: 978-1613725726
Amazon: The Thunder in His Head
J.L. Merrow - Wight Mischief
The setting was the strongest part of the story. I liked that you had natives, occasional visitors and a newcomer to the island. There was a variety of historical and natural settings and it really served the story. It made me interested in visiting the place. -Kirsten
Paperback: 272 pages
Publisher: Samhain Publishing (September 4, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1609288033
ISBN-13: 978-1609288037
Amazon: Wight Mischief
Jordan Castillo Price - Magic Mansion (
)
I obviously loved it. It's far better than half the published books out there. I'm actually going to read more of this author. -Ryan
What a fun book! -Stacia
Paperback: 350 pages
Publisher: JCP Books (May 4, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935540483
ISBN-13: 978-1935540489
Amazon: Magic Mansion
Joseph R. G. DeMarco - Crimes on Latimer (
)
I am not usually a fan of mysteries... but this was so well written I enjoyed it. I could find no flaws in the work... I'm not converted to suddenly loving mysteries, but have gained a huge respect for Mr. DeMarco's writing. -Cherie
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Lethe Press (March 13, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1590213742
ISBN-13: 978-1590213742
Amazon: Crimes on Latimer: From the Early Cases of Marco Fontana
Julie Bozza - The Butterfly Hunter
Both main characters in this story were fantastic to read. Their journey together made the pages keep turning for me. -April O.
Paperback: 242 pages
Publisher: Manifold Press (1 August 2012)
Language: English
K.C. Burn - Cop Out
Loved this book. The peek inside the head of this cop as he discovers his true sexuality is just awesome. -Lex
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 18, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613722133
ISBN-13: 978-1613722138
Amazon: Cop Out
K.E. Payne - me@you.com
I enjoyed the British slang and setting, and I thought the main character's confusion was well portrayed. -Cassandra
Reading level: Ages 13 and up
Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Bold Strokes Books (January 17, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1602825920
ISBN-13: 978-1602825925
Amazon: me@you.com
K.T. Grant - Cinderella and The Lady (
)
A wonderful retelling of the Cinderella story with gay blades and gayer maidens trying to get what they want plus a few more tidbits about the evil stepmother and how she is punished at the end. -Mick
This was a fun read, a clever lesbian take on the Cinderella story that takes some Once Upon a Time liberties with the original tale. It was nicely written and an easy, breezy, romantic read. -Sally
Publisher: Ravenous Romance (July 23, 2012)
Amazon Kindle: Cinderella and the Lady
Kate McMurray - Out in the Field
I really liked this book; it was fun, edgy, heartbreaking and a story that found very difficult to put down. The author brought to life the pain, frustration, and difficulty surrounding gay athletes in traditional 'macho' sports-a very timely issue today. Kate McMurray is another author whose books I'll be looking for. -Kathy
Far and away the best book I read for the Rainbow Awards this year - I hope it finishes very high because it deserves it! -Dan
Publisher: Loose Id LLC (April 23, 2012)
Amazon Kindle: Out in the Field
Lisa Worrall - Unshakeable Faith
For me this was a really good and interesting story to read. It sucked you in and was easy to follow. I loved the interaction and emotion between all the characters. I know it will be a story I will want to read more than once. -Norma
Paperback: 250 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 28, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613722672
ISBN-13: 978-1613722671
Amazon: Unshakeable Faith
Neil Plakcy - Mi Amor
Plakcy has long been one of my favorite writers and this book is up to his usual standard of excellence. The writing is vivid and clear and never gets in the way of the story. I felt as if I were present every step of the way traveling the story path right beside the wonderfully developed characters. -Kimber
Paperback: 252 pages
Publisher: Loose Id, LLC (January 19, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1611183790
ISBN-13: 978-1611183795
Amazon: Mi Amor
Q. Kelly - All in the Family
Two young ladies become step-sisters and fall in love despite the meddling and manipulation of the wicked step mother. -Debra
Paperback: 198 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (January 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1468104268
ISBN-13: 978-1468104264
Amazon: All in the Family
R.J. Scott - The Gallows Tree
A wonderful story. A good bit of mystery in trying to figure out what was going on with voices. Add the clear tension over Vince and how bad it was for Cody. The development for him from terrified man who could barely talk to people to a man loved and in love, and best of all with no more worries about Vince. -Pat
Paperback: 324 pages
Publisher: Silver Publishing (December 22, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1614954704
ISBN-13: 978-1614954705
Amazon: The Gallows Tree
Rob Byrnes - Holy Rollers
I thought long and hard before assigning such high ratings, especially this early, but in the end I believe this is an exceptionally fine book. At the outset, the writing style and characters felt reminiscent of Ross Thomas and his Voodoo, Ltd. books (admittedly favorites of mine) - being rather sly and witty in setting up its anti-heroes, their colleagues and their caper. However, as the story progressed, it became clear to me that the author has an original voice and a deft hand with humor and, in some cases, outright farce (complete with bedroom scene). I think this book is a winner. -Melissa
Paperback: 264 pages
Publisher: Bold Strokes Books (November 15, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1602825785
ISBN-13: 978-1602825789
Amazon: Holy Rollers
Rodney Ross - The Cool Part of His Pillow
I found this book to be an emotional and very realistic story of one man's journey towards the acceptance of the loss of his life partner. Rodney's writing was crisp and believable as he brought Barry through a year of pain and confusion to reach a place where he was ready to start to live again. I thoroughly recommend this book. -Rosie
Paperback: 340 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (May 14, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613725043
ISBN-13: 978-1613725047
Amazon: The Cool Part of His Pillow
Sara York - Torn To Shreds
WOW!!! What a journey, I was held captive by this story from the beginning to the end. At times I was on the edge of my seat, Sara York really knows how to not only build up the intensity of the story but also how to keep it up. The word building was fabulous in portraying not only what was happening now but what had happened previously without any graphic gory detail. Well done!!! -Helen
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Amazon Kindle: Torn To Shreds
Scott Alexander Hess - Bergdorf Boys
This is pure literary fiction. Descriptions are wonderful, writing style is lyric.
Paperback: 248 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (December 3, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1467907510
ISBN-13: 978-1467907514
Amazon: Bergdorf Boys
Shira Anthony - The Melody Thief
Very beautiful descriptions, of both the location (Italy, this time) and of the music. The characters were very well developed. I loved seeing the changes in Cary, he was a different person by the end. I enjoy when the 'I Love You's' occur before the end of a story, so that you can see the couple cope with life. I found myself disappointed when I reached the end, not because of the story, but because it was over. -Valerie
The characters are richly drawn and the plot intricately woven like the very songs this book centers around. Like a melody that you can't get out of your head long after the song has ended, this book stayed with me for days after. Superbly written. --Lori
Paperback: 230 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (August 24, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1613726945
ISBN-13: 978-1613726945
Amazon: The Melody Thief
Syd McGinley - Twice-Caught (
)
I have to say that this was one of the best books I've ever read. The world that McGinley created is rich and fully developed. The characters are nuanced and never fail to surprise you. Even after putting the book down the characters didn't leave my thoughts. A reader wouldn't need much background to get sucked right into this gem. -Shanna
Paperback: 270 pages
Publisher: Torquere Press (September 28, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1610405579
ISBN-13: 978-1610405577
Amazon: Twice-Caught
Z. Allora - Tied Together (
)
This is the part of the Dark Angels series and was one story i was really looking forward to. I loved these two and the author really made me want them to find their HEA. This story should not be missed. -Lyne
Paperback: 216 pages
Publisher: MLR Press (January 6, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1608205738
ISBN-13: 978-1608205738
Amazon: The Dark Angels: Tied Together
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