Review: Each story makes a perfect quick read!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 03 28, 2014
Note: All Star ratings in this review are Goodreads rating so should actually be a little higher on the Amazon scale!Overall I enjoyed this anthology. I rated all stories 3 and above which was great. It took me a while to get through because my approach with anthologies is to read a story on those nights when I want a quick read before bed but don't want to get sucked into a long novel. This was perfect and I ended many a night with a little bit of Dr. Feelgood. Overall rating 3.5.Right-hand Man by Rob RosenBasically this is one quick - albeit very hot and sexy - scene as Alan gets a bath from his friendly and helpful neighbour Brad (we all need good neighbours like Brad!) Alan has a broken arm and luckily Brad is a medical professional who likes to do good deeds. There are witty lines and amusing banter with lots of sex. These guys are not shy, basically going at it from the moment they meet. 3 stars.Mend What Is Broken by Fils PreisI liked the realism of the traumatic experience. The descriptions took me right into the scene - the slipping in and out of conciousness, the confusion etc. I would have liked the story to continue for one or two more chapters to give more of a taste of the characters together but I guess you can't have it all in a short story! 3 stars.Doctor in the Desert by S.C. WynneThis had some cute moments and the characters were really likable. I loved their date where they were feeling each other out - gay? not gay? just good at acting straight? The emotional connection between them was super-fast and the characters even acknowledge this so I wasn't the only one thinking it! :) My only puzzlement was how a doctor could have had such a bad time bottoming in the past as surely he would understand the need for prep so why not ask for it? Luckily he doesn't have to ask his gorgeous policeman! 3.5 starsIron Man by Meg O'BrienI loved Aiden and Bryan and I appreciated the author's descriptions of the blind experience but I adored mom - she was wonderful and kind and funny. 4 starsFirst and Last by Sara YorkLove a story with a reunited men and I loved tat Jeffery didn't hold a grudge about the past. I adored the father and son relationship between Trevin and Burt. 4 starsDifferential Diagnosis by Anna MartinThis was a cute story of life imitating art when lead characters on a soap opera play the part of lovers. I was really getting into it when it ended - unfortunately! The ending just seemed too abrupt. 3 starsIn My Own Skin by Thea NishimoriThis story was definitely different, given its focus on an illness that impacts Chris' ability to meet men and engage in physical activity. His everyday living is obviously impacted as well as his chances at romance. It is nice that the author is providing a sense of realism and information on a condition that no doubt affects many, including herself but at times I thought it maybe a bit too descriptive - maybe I just think this because I'm thinking it doesn't fit with 'romance'. Anyway, it has nice potential for Chris to get his happy ending. 3 starsRx for Sex by Bru Baker4 stars for a hot little sex scene in the on-call room! I loved the dirty talk, I loved Charlie's cute prescription for Barr. I'd really like to hear more about these two.Kind by Samuel Scott Preston3 stars. Unlikely (I'm not sure that Derek would have really spent his recuperation with this team physical therapist) but it was sweet.Hero Worship by Kris T. BethkeI loved this story as it was but it would have made a great longer story. I loved all the characters including the sister/best friend. A bit of humour, nice sex, emotional soul searching and a happy ending. 5 starsTourniquet by Kaye P. Hallows4.5 stars. I loved this story - heroes, the Dr House references, Kane's personality and his persistence going after Weston and taking chances. "I want you to saw off that damn tourniquet around your heart and let me bring you back to life. I want your devotion, your respect, and your trust. I want you, all of you, not this watered-down version that makes you feel safe. I wany you to love the s*** out of me without fear or reservation."Pain Management by Brigham VaughnA little niggle of inappropriateness but really who cares in a sweet short story involving a massage therapist and a patient with a chronic migraine. It's amazing what a good massage (one very hot one, in particular) can do! 3.5 starsNight Shift by Casey O'Neill4 stars because I like drama and happy endings - plus there were cops! There's no sex but that impact my enjoyment of the story which focused on a long term couple who are married but separated, struggling with accepting the risks that come with the job of a detective.To The Next Level by Laura MathewsA nice story with a military touch as Cameron goes through rehabilitation while falling for his therapist. A little flirtation but no boundaries crossed. It was sweet. 3.5 stars