| Title | : | Closet Capers |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 162380650X |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9781623806507 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | ebook |
| Number of Pages | : | 282 |
| Publication | : | First published April 21, 2013 |
Kitsch Me by Mari Donne
Leveling Up by Jude Dunn
Philip Collyer vs. the Cola Thief by Amy Rae Durreson
A Kiss in the Dark by Eli Easton
Calberg's House Specialty Blend by Skylar Jaye
Small Change by Danni Keane
Lawrence Frightengale Investigates by Aidee Ladnier & Debussy Ladnier
The Whole Kit and Kaboodle by Ari McKay
Le Beau Soleil by Christopher Hawthorne Moss
Joie de Vivre by Pinkie Rae Parker
Made Good Under Pressure by Maja Rose
Tempest for a Teacup by Andrea Speed
Closet Capers Reviews
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My first published m/m romance story is in this anthology. I'm really looking forward to reading all the stories in the collection. Below are my notes on each as I read them:
A Kiss in the Dark, Eli Easton:
This is mine, so I won't review it, but here's the blurb:
Lane Lester is owns a small business creating web sites in Seattle. At a holiday party hosted by one of his clients, the power goes out. In the dark, a man pulls Lane aside and kisses him as he’s never been kissed before. Lane can’t forget the passion in that kiss, and he goes on a quest to learn the identity of his mysterious admirer.
Lane has a few suspects, and his roommate, Dale, helps him remember details about the man through hypnosis. But when Lane finally discovers the identity of his admirer, it’s a shock. Lane learns that something that seems impossible in the light of day can happen in the tempting anonymity of the dark.
Calberg's House Specialty Blend, Skylar Jaye:
Jonathan is a lawyer who's addicted to a particular blend of coffee made at a small local coffee shop. When the shop mysteriously closes, Jonathan can't let it go and he tries to investigate what happened.
This is a fun story with a bit of intrigue and a sexy/sweet finish.
The Whole Kit and Kaboodle, Ari McKay:
Grey is a professor at a university. He's had a flirtatious relationship with the archives librarian, Henry, since the man started a few years ago. But Henry has never allowed it go to any further. Is Henry in a committed relationship? Grey decides to find out, but what he learns is not what he expected.
Grey and Henry were interesting characters and I loved the old-fashioned courtliness in this one.
Le Beau Soleil by Christopher Hawthorne Moss:
A sexy riverboat owner in 1855, New Orleans, and a little gambling mystery--I really liked this story. It has a nice sense of time and place and Frankie is a great character. Yum!
Leveling Up by Jude Dunn:
This story features an existing relationship and an anniversary that's full of surprises. Adam is a game designer and his partner organizes what turns out to be a hell of a night to remember. Their relationship was very sweet.
Kitsch Me by Mari Donne:
Brian finds a company online that sells miracle oddities like Buddha's face in toast, a candle melted to vaguely show the face of the Virgin Mary, etc. The little mystery in this story deals with figuring out who or what this company really is, and the romance involved an existing relationship of two poor, post-college grads. I really liked the humor in this story.
Made Good Under Pressure by Maja Rose:
Billy is a poverty-stricken young man who likes to stand outside the dance halls and theaters and absorb the happy 'glow' of the rich and privileged. One night he meets Eric and his sister, the kind of 'beautiful people' he's only admired from afar. He gets tangled up with them, despite his better judgment. I really loved of the author's voice in this story. I'll be seeking out more from Ms. Rose.
Tempest in a Teacup by Andrea Speed:
I loved this one--a brief little private eye story and a case of a missing mini pooch. It's written in first person and the Mickey Spillane-ish voice is quite good. The romance was minor (the private Eye and his boyfriend are on the case together), but there were lines that had me laughing outloud and I really didn't miss the hot and heavy stuff. I'll definitely read more Andrea Speed.
Small Change by Danni Keane:
This was such a creative idea. I don't want to give it away, because I love how the reader isn't sure what's going on at the start. But it's a wonderful, kitschy setting and very cute little mystery/romance. The characterization of Dom is just wonderful.
Lawrence Frightengale Investigates by Aidee Ladnier and Debussy Ladnier:
Another kitschy entry to the anthology, this story features the host of a late-night horror show (who dresses as a vampire) and his cross-dressing boyfriend Myrna Boy. They're scheduled to appear in a parade in a rare Cadillac, and when the car goes missing they have to figure out where it went. This story was cute and well-written, especially if you're a fan of kitschy TV shows.
Joie de Vivre by Pinkie Rae Parker:
Jules inherits his aunt's farmhouse in rural France after she dies. Once there he meets a childhood tormentor who attempts to woo him. There's some strong imagery in this story, especially of the French farmhouse, the countryside, and cooking.
Philip Colyer vs the Cola Thief by Amy Rae Durreson:
The anthology ends on a high note with this story. Someone keeps stealing Phil's cola out of the fridge at work and he tries everything to catch the culprit. Meanwhile, he begins a nerdy (in a good way) courtship with the resident IT guy. This story had more of a romance arc to it and some hot scenes. Very nice.
Overall:
I enjoyed all the stories in this anthology and there was a nice mix of spicy stories with stories that focused on the mystery element. The entire anthology is on the cute/funny side of mystery vs anything dark and gritty, so check it out when you're in the good for a fun, light read. -
3. 5 stars. A better-than average collection of romantic shorts, each involving an investigation of some kind.
A Kiss in the Dark, Eli Easton 3.5 stars
Lane, he of the beautifully pressed and starched lavender shirt, is kissed by a mystery man when the lights go out at a business party.
Calberg's House Specialty Blend, Skylar Jaye 3.5 stars
Jonathan, a busy partner in a law firm, cannot rest until he finds out what happened to his favorite coffee shop.
The Whole Kit and Kaboodle, Ari McKay 3.5 stars
History professor Grey discovers the secret life of a shy university librarian.
Le Beau Soleil, Christopher Hawthorne Moss 2.5 stars
In 1855 New Orleans, Frankie, a very successful gambler, hears rumors accusing him of cheating.
Leveling Up, Jude Dunn 2.5 stars
Adam is supposed to meet his boyfriend for dinner, but everything is going wrong.
Kitsch Me, Mari Donne 3 stars
Brian's boyfriend, Craig, has developed a mysterious interest in tacky collectables.
Made Good Under Pressure, Maja Rose 2 stars
In 1926 New York, Billy and Eric deal with love across class boundaries.
Tempest for a Teacup, Andrea Speed 4 stars
Jake and his currently on-again boyfriend look for a missing Morkie.
Small Change, Danni Keane 3.5 stars
Someone is playing games with the citizens of Little Lexington! Dom is intrigued.
Lawrence Frightengale Investigates, Aidee Ladnier and Debussy Ladnier 5 stars
Late Night TV host and his companion, Myrna Boy, need to find a tricked-out Cadillac before the Out and About parade starts.
Joie de Vivre, Pinkie Rae Parker 3 stars
Jules has to deal with a crumbling inheritance and a boyhood enemy.
Philip Collyer vs the Cola Thief, Amy Rae Durreson 4 stars
Phil needs caffeine to get through the day, the cute IT guy is helping him discover who keeps taking his lunchtime cola out of the fridge. -
4.25 stars
A fun collection of humorous short stories.
The stories are listed and rated according to the order of which they appear on my Kindle.
Full review can be found at
On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
A Kiss in the Dark, Eli Easton – 5 stars
Calbert's House Specialty Blend, Skylar Jaye – 3.75 stars
The Whole Kit and Kaboodle, Ari McKay – 3 stars
Le Beau Soleil, Christopher Hawthorne Moss – 3 stars
Leveling Up, Jude Dunn – 3 stars
Kitsch Me, Mari Donne – 4.5 stars
Made Good Under Pressure, Maja Rose – 5 stars
Tempest for a Teacup, Andrea Speed – 4.5 stars
Small Change, Danni Keane – 4.5 stars
Lawrence Frightengale Investigates, Aidee Ladnier & Debussy Ladnier – 4.5 stars
Joie de Vivre, Pinkie Rae Parker – 4 stars
Philip Collyer vs the Cola Thief, Amy Rae Durreson – 4.5 stars
This anthology was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review. -
For the most part these are cute little stories with a tiny bit of mystery thrown in. Sometimes the mystery is super simple, sometimes more complicated. As always with anthologies, I have favorites but I liked all the stories here. They are all pretty short and for me were best read just a couple at a time.
A Kiss in the Dark – rated 4, my favorite of the bunch. I loved that Josh, Lane’s business partner and totally unaware (so we think) geek, took a chance like he did. “God, Lane, you’re so…you!” summed it up so well. I loved this one. And the lavender shirt. The mystery? Who was the kisser?
Calberg’s House Specialty Blend – rated 3.5. Very cute and clever, especially the “mouth orgasm that was the specialty house blend”. I feel that way about chocolate. The mystery? Where did the coffee god go?
The Whole Kit and Kaboodle – rated 4. Another favorite, with Miss Kitten. Henry, the quiet librarian with the hidden wild side? Awesome. It’s not insta-love, in my opinion, because they’ve known each other for years at work, just never got around to truths. The mystery? Why does the librarian avoid him?
Le Beau Soleil – rated 3. Not really my cup of tea, a short historical with a gambler. The mystery? Who is spreading rumors about Frankie?
Leveling Up – rated 3.5 Very cute story of a gamer and his boyfriend on their anniversary, with an unexpected work problem thrown in. The mystery? Who is Chandlis and why is he being called that?
Kitsch Me – Brian’s life is full of kitschy things but it takes a little more for him to realize how much Craig will do to make him happy. The mystery? What IS Craig doing?
Made Good Under Pressure – rated 4. Another favorite, I liked it very much. Historical story of Billy, a poor man who meets the rich Eric. Sort of a Cinderfella story, with a great sister thrown into the mix. The mystery? Where is Julia’s necklace?
Tempest in a Teacup - rated 3. Cute story of a detective and the man who really could do better (for me anyway!) The mystery? Who stole Princess?
Small Change – rated 4. This was adorable, a model village and the artist who cherishes it. Takes a little bit for someone to see behind the nerd but it’s so lovely when he does. The mystery? Who keeps moving everything!
Lawrence Frightengale Investigates - rated 3.5 Cute mystery about a missing car. I loved Myrna Boy and I’d love to see a longer book with her and Lawrence. The mystery? Where IS the car?
Joie De Vivre – rated 3. The problem I had here was I did not at all like Henry. I don’t know if he is supposed to come across as obnoxious as he did “You better be careful or you’ll get fat again.” I hated that Jules just seemed to forgive all the bullying Henry to him without hardly an apology. Just like “that was me”. The mystery? Where is the recipe box?
Philip Collyer vs. The Cola Thief – rated 3.5. Very cute story of a Cola addict and a crush. The mystery? Who is stealing Phillip’s cola? -
A Kiss in the Dark by Eli Easton
Lane Lester is stuck at a boring office party, being hit on by a woman no less, when the lights go out—and he’s pulled into the fierce, hot embrace of a man. When the lights come back on, it’s time to investigate the identity of the mysterious lover.
This anthology starts off with a bang. Eli Easton, the mistress of suspense, mystery, and intrigue, has written in such an engaging manner you’ll not want to miss this for the world. As Lane studies the variety of men present at his workplace, he even accepts help from his roommate for some hypnosis. And the surprises at the end are hotter than hot! When Lane finally got together with his man, I swear I got chills… Highly recommended. This is in the 1st person.
Calberg’s House Specialty Blend by Skylar Jaye
One sad day Jonathan Mayer finds his favorite coffee shop closed down, for good. The best coffee he’s ever had, and now he has nothing. Jonathan gets miffed, and starts investigating. The mystery in itself is not big, could happen to anyone, but at the end of the rainbow is the coffee maker. One meeting leads to a connection of the souls.
Jonathan and Derik are so darn adorable together, I just wanna hug them. Jonathan may not find his coffee right away, but he sure gets the next best thing—and later, coffee comes a distant second. Lovely little story, easy to recommend. Makes me want to have some hot chocolate. Yum.
The Whole Kit and Kaboodle by Ari McKay
Grey and Henry are coworkers at a library. Grey gets the sense Henry’s into him, but every time Grey tries to get closer, Henry pulls away. Henry has a secret. Grey has to find out what it is. He fears the worst, like a married closeted gay man. But the truth turns out to be something quite different.
I adored the surprise here, Henry’s secret. Oh, delicious. Henry does have someone else in his life—but who? The flirting and the seduction here take my breath away. This is playful and fun. I liked this one a lot, and recommending it is easy.
Le Beau Soleil by Christopher Hawthorne Moss
This is a story of a river gambler, Frankie Deramus, in the 19th Century. Someone is spreading vicious rumors about him cheating at cards which is the one thing he has never done. Frankie hires a PI, Michael Murphy, to find out who. As they both investigate on their own, danger comes a-calling.
The historical setting was lively and vivid, well done. Though the writing is solid and draws you in, there was precious little romance here. For one thing, Frankie has other lovers. But more than that, Frankie and Murphy are not really getting together here. There’s no great romance, no vows of love spoken or even hinted at. It’s more like opportunistic sex of like minds. Nothing more. The lack of a real connection between the men left me wanting more.
Leveling Up by Jude Dunn
Game designer Adam Chandler is supposed to be celebrating his anniversary with his boyfriend, ad exec Ben Randal, but work gets in the way. When he gets home, the place is empty—save for clues Adam is supposed to follow. But when he ends up in a luxury hotel under a pseudonym as the apparent lover of a famous singer, the game takes an unexpected turn.
This had quite an intriguing game of chase between the lovers, and false leads. In fact, the mystery takes most of the story, and the two men are reunited only at the end. But it’s a happy ending full of promise and hope. Though I would have wished more time for the two men and their romance, this is not bad at all.
Kitsch Me by Mari Donne
Brian has only two desires in life. One is his boyfriend Craig, the other is Hawaii. But being poor doesn’t really allow for trips, so he gives his all to his special guy. And I mean all. The lengths to which Brian goes for love are phenomenal. Thankfully, Craig is good at catching up. A treasure hunt for a Hula dancing doll through an online shop leads to Craig acting very mysteriously. When he suddenly appears with a bundle of money, what is Brian supposed to think?
These two men would give each other the world if they could. Their love is so encompassing, I was just in awe of seeing it. Some people have goals and ambitions. But for a few people, their only goal in life is to love and be loved. Brian and Craig are these kinds of people, and I just fell in love with them. Recommended.
Made Good Under Pressure by Maja Rose
Another historical, set in the 1920′s. Billy Jones is poor, but he’s not a thief. He hangs out near theaters to listen to music, to feel like he’s a part of something beautiful. One night he meets Eric and Julia Hamilton, wealthy siblings, who entreat him to join them at a dance. A night of dancing, being held and kissed by Eric is wonderful. But one night is not enough for Billy, and there’s a social gulf between them, so Billy lets his dreams go. But when Julia meets him again about a stolen necklace she wants back, Billy offers to help. If that puts him back on Eric’s path… well, it’ll hurt, but how bittersweet it will be.
It’s all too easy to judge people by their appearance. Billy has been the object of such disdain his whole life. But when he himself is guilty of the same he has to make a choice, to throw away a chance at happiness for social inequity or to take a risk. I simply adored this story. No, the language was off for Billy on a lot of occasions, and him being able to read and know big words and literary classics just threw me. But that doesn’t matter because Billy and Eric are so passionate with each other, so loving and kind, you just want the best for them. And their erotic scenes are smoldering hot!
Tempest for a Teacup by Andrea Speed
Jake Falconer, a PI, is hired by a rich but harebrained twink to find his purse-dog, fearing dognapping. To help him, the socially slightly inept Jake gets his on-again, off-again boyfriend, Kyle, the one honest cop in town. In the end, the dog might not be too hard to find, but the real mystery is what is Jake going to find in Kyle?
Oh, this is why I love Andrea Speed. Her style of writing pulls you in from the start. I especially love her for making up words as she goes along. Brilliant stuff! Both men come through as such distinct characters I would have loved to read more about them. Highly recommended! Written in 1st person.
Small Change by Danni Keane
Dom Gibson is the caretaker and painter of Little Lexington, a model village depicting an idyllic England of yesteryear. One of the other workers, the ride-on train driver Riley, is a flashy, cocky gay guy, and Dom moons over him. But all’s not well in tiny town. Things get moved around and changed. A train off the tracks is harmless and easy to correct; a gypsy man giving it to a washer woman doggie style or a gay wedding are decidedly different, starting to garner unwanted attention from the tourists. A stakeout is required, but just how many meddlers are there?
This story is my absolute favorite of the bunch. I laughed more than with any other. This was just a perfect tiny tale in a tiny town. Dom is shy where Riley is flamboyant, but they fit so well together, you just want to nudge them toward one another. This story also has the best line in the anthology: “How about you confess or—” He ran a finger along the sheep’s back, giving an evil chuckle. “—lamby here gets it!” You’ll have to read the whole thing to find out what that means. Best story!
Lawrence Frightengale Investigates by Aidee Ladnier & Debussy Ladnier
TV’s late night horror show host, Lawrence Nightingale, and his boyfriend, the lovely Myrna Boy, are all set to drive in a parade for out and proud gay youths with the vintage car borrowed from their boss. The car, however, gets stolen a few hours before zero hour. The two go off through town to investigate the trail, even if Lawrence has fake vampire fangs and Myrna wears a glittery gown. But who stole the car and why?
This was one the most upbeat stories I’ve read, short or otherwise. The spirit is so high and bubbly I feel like I’ve drank champagne. I absolutely adored this one. Every person here is a personality with a capital ‘P’. What really makes this stand out as a romance is the continuous playful, sexy, even tender banter between Lawrence and Myrna, that even if they barely touch, there’s a connection, real and heartwarming. And the mystery is top notch too, with red herrings and unlikely culprits. I recommend this wholeheartedly!
Joie de Vivre by Pinkie Rae Parker
Jules has a successful restaurant in Toulouse, but when his Aunt Mathilde dies and leaves him her cottage in the countryside, he has to check it out. The place is practically falling apart, and yet there have been repairs done. And Mathilde’s recipe book seems to have vanished. The worst and most surprising thing, however, is the presence of Henri, a boy now grown into a man who used to bully Jules as a child for being chubby. What is Henri doing there and what does he want? Jules doesn’t know, but though his instincts tell him to kick the former bully out to the curb, he wants to know more.
France comes through vividly in this story. Jules and Henri are both lonely, just differently driven. Perhaps old animosities can be laid to rest, and new friendships forged. After all, though kids can be cruel, people do change as they grow up. Henri is charming and witty, and Jules is intrigued. What Jules doesn’t expect is the attraction, and I was gratified to find he could put the past behind him. Henri was so in-your-face charismatic, you had to like him, despite his past. I liked this story a lot. The romance was very sweet and sympathetic. It could have been longer, though. I would have loved to see how the relationships between these two develops.
Philip Collyer vs. the Cola Thief by Amy Rae Durreson
Philip Collyer has only one persistent needy habit: Caffeine, in the form of coffee and cola after lunch. Then his colas start disappearing, first without words, and later with playful, flirtatious pink post-its. The only person he can vent to is Kester Jarrod, an IT guy who is way out of his league. Only, Kester happens to be someone Phil has known in the past, and the crush turns out to be mutual. As they start dating, the only mystery is the cola thief, and for that Phil concocts one scheme after another to trap him. But perhaps more important is the motive behind the thefts…
This is a perfect conclusion to the anthology. By the last lines I had tears in my eyes. Phil may seem grumpy but his past lover was a cheating dick so perhaps he has a right to be off-putting. Kester is sweet and charming, and he knows what he wants, even when he’s shy about it. These two are just perfect together. The mystery has several layers, and when the truth comes out, everything goes wrong so fast. Can things be mended? You’ll have to read it for yourself. This story will certainly pull all your heartstrings, from high to low, and you will love it. I highly recommend this. -
With a dozen little stories we decided to review this together and say a little bit about each story.
A Kiss in the Dark by Eli Easton
Beans - Haven’t we all had fantasies about a secret kiss in the dark. A stranger? A friend? This novella gives us that fantasy and allows us to move with Lane through the mystery of the man who made him feel completely desired and lost. I enjoyed the mystery, even if I totally guessed the secret kisser, because I liked the self reflection of Lane and his priorities.
Nina - I really liked this one. I thought it was cute and fun and had some good lines. There were a couple that had me chuckling. I too was able to guess who it was going to be early on but it was still fun to get there and when we finally do, it gets hot!
Calberg’s House Specialty Blend by Skylar Jaye
Beans - This story was great. You have this clean cut professional who comes undone when his favorite coffee shop closes down. I loved Johnathan’s obsession that leads him to meet Derik, the former owner of the little coffee shop that fed his soul.
Nina - This one was adorable. This poor man losing his favorite coffee shop, which for those who share his addiction know is very understandably upsetting. I was impressed that he actually tried to do something about it, instead of just complaining. His pursuit of his morning mouth orgasm leads him to much more than just coffee.
The Whole Kit and Kaboodle by Ari McKay
Beans - I enjoyed the glimpse into the life of Henry/Kitten and Grey. I loved how Grey pursued Henry and realized that he was going to have to prove his affection to an unbelieving Henry. I was intrigued by the premise of this novella and it moved me. Grey is an amazing character, I fell in love with his open heart as well.
Nina - The one point that we both had when we talked about the stories was “I loved that this anthology has two drag stories. There need to be more of them!” This is the love story of a man who has a fabulous alter ego, and the man who realizes that he needs to woo them both if he is going to have a future with his dream man.
Le Beau Soleil by Christopher Hawthorne Moss
Beans - Historical m/m is rare, so I went into this incredibly excited. This was probably my least favorite story of the bunch. I could see the potential for an amazing cast of characters that were just starting to get off the ground. My favorite was the investigator Michael Murphy who is the sort of love interest with Frankie. I could have read more about Michael and been content.
Nina - This one felt too short to me. I think that Frankie was supposed to be with Michael, but it read more like a hook up to me. Or maybe a convenient friends with benefits. I don’t feel that they had enough time to develop the characters enough to satisfy me. So while I enjoyed the story I felt like it was unfinished, as if I had only read the excerpt. Can we please have the rest of the book?
Leveling Up by Jude Dunn
Beans - Adam and Ben are a couple on the upswing of success. They have fought the odds and are happy both with each other and the life they are building. Both are ambitious and determined to make it. I was drawn into the surprise that Adam is pulled into bringing both of their goals to the next level.
Nina - This one had me guessing and almost as confused as poor Adam was through most of this short story. It was a fun ride and the sweetness ratio was perfect. What would you do to help the one you love succeed?
Kitsch Me by Mari Donne
Beans - Brian wants nothing more than Craig, and to one day go to Hawaii. But Craig is acting weird and Brian doesn’t know what to do. Is he losing Craig? Craig is very mysterious in this novella. We see a man who is very internal and focused, but also you get a hint that he sees way more than he lets on. Loved this novella so much. I wanted to dig more into these men.
Nina - This story is adorable. The boys are so sweet and in love. It can be hard to be in love with someone who tends to be oblivious to what goes on around them, especially when they don’t express their feelings well. I loved the ending of this one.
Made Good Under Pressure by Maja Rose
Beans - This is an interesting story about pre-depression era life and two men of different social classes coming together. I enjoyed the scene when they danced chest to chest and then they danced again, but this time on whether or not they could make a life together. It was sweet but with a slight amount of grit.
Nina - An interesting voice. What at first seems like an impossible situation resolves itself nicely into a lovely little couple that I really hope is able to make it. There is a certain romantic fantasy to this story that is a pleasure to read.
Tempest for a Teacup by Andrea Speed
Beans - I laughed several times during this novella. It was a contemporary noir with a funny twist. Although short and sweet it was great fun seeing both Kyle and Jake work together to solve a funny, but nicely paid mystery. The two are opposites but have two things in common. They love a good mystery and they love each other.
Nina - This was a perfect anniversary date for a hardboiled detective and an honest cop to solve, a safe and fun investigation that had them working together to unravel the silly mystery. With time left over for a little private celebration. Andrea Speed delivered her trademark snark and hopeful cynicism. A very enjoyable read.
Small Change by Danni Keane
Beans - Dom and Riley are completely different men. They have nothing in common, but attraction and the miniature town they work at. Dom is enchanting and lovable as a shy man, crushing on his peer. Riley is working on his degree, his job is not just fun but with the cute boy and potential for fun photographs he is drawn in. Loved the quirk and flirting. Cute story.
Nina - It is such a wonderful thing when you find your place in the world, especially if you can manage to find a way to get payed for it. Dom is a sweet, quiet and introverted artist who has a huge crush on brash, fun and extroverted Riley, who he believes to be out of his league. This is a delightful little story of how people who seem very different can have a lot more in common than they think.
Lawrence Frightengale Investigates by Aidee and Debussy Ladnier
Beans - We rarely get to see a couple that is already committed to each other live their life in the pages of a story, without there being crazy drama. I loved the way these partners interacted with each other completely confident and moved to action by the crisis of a theft. If you don’t get swept away in the world building, the overall trust and partnership makes for great read. But I did adore the fun sideline of the pride parade and horror show.
Nina - I enjoyed this story so much. It had so many good elements and kept a fast pace with a mystery that has to be solved in a very short time period. Many times it looked like they wouldn’t be able to make it but the teamwork and flair that they show is fantastic. I loved Larry/Lawrence and Nicholas/Myrna. They have so much fun together as they try to save Larry’s job and solve the mystery. Myrna’s explanation to Justin on how to address her was very gentle, clear and to the point. The ending is perfect for this fun ride of a story.
Joie de Vivre by Pinkie Rae Parker
Beans - We are in France looking around at an old farmhouse that is falling apart and Jules is mourning the death of his Aunt. All he wants is to remember her well and go back to his restaurant. But there is a hitch in his plan. Enter hitch, namely Henri, Jules old childhood nemesis and now would be rescuer in the leaking house. This was a very cute story of two men who are living different lives with goals that might not mesh, but who are willing to take a chance. It was a fun little read and in the end you are so glad that Henri was persistent and Jules kind. They both sing in the kitchen and with each other.
Nina - This is the story for those of you who love the enemies to lovers trope, especially when it involves one of them being mean when they were kids because he was attracted to our cute main. Thrown together now that they are adults when Jules comes to his aunt’s home after her death, they find that they are attracted to the men each has become. Now they have to find a way to be together with Jules life and career so far away.
Phillip Collyer vs the Cola Thief by Amy Rae Durreson
Beans - This was my favorite story in the anthology. I adored Phil and his quirky idiosyncrasies with his deep and abiding love of caffeine. His routine and the way he cares for everyone under him is endearing. Then we meet Kester who is infatuated with Phil and slowly eased him into a relationship. Kester is gentle and loving with Phil, who can be fragile. This story was captivating and I enjoyed every minute of it.
Nina - What a fun story! I adored the crush aspect in this one. I think most of us have a thing. Something that we love and look forward to. It breaks up our day and is a simple pleasure that we indulge in that makes us happy and costs little. For Phil it is his icy-cold cola at lunch. When someone starts messing with his lunchtime ritual things get serious. At the same time the beautifully unique IT guy that Phil can’t help but watch wants to hang out. I love this couple, both of them are fun, silly, smart and sexy and are meant for each other.
Conclusion:
Overall we think this was a good, strong anthology. It had a nice variety of stories to keep you drawn in. A fun and easy read that will have you smiling and feeling happy with the world and the lovers who inhabit it. -
Closet Capers is a saucy, quirky collection of great stories written by various talented authors. The blurb does an excellent job of describing the basic theme for the book but you definitely need to read the stories to really appreciate this anthology.
A Kiss in the Dark by Eli Easton
Lane Lester and his business partner Josh Goldstein are at a client's Christmas party when the lights go out. Lane finds himself up against the wall as a male kisses the daylights out of him. His search for the identity of the kisser leads to the last person that he would suspect.
Calberg's House Specialty Blend by Skylar Jaye
Jonathan Mayer has just returned to town from a business trip and is looking forward to a cup of his favorite brew. He's shocked to find that the shop is closed and he has no way to get it any more. His search for the Calberg Specialty House Blend lieads him to Derik Calberg and more than just a cup of coffee.
The Whole Kit and Kaboodle by Ari McKay
Dr. Grey Harris has been attracted to librarian Henry Adams for two years. Every time he's asked Henry out, Henry has refused . Grey is puzzled as to why because every time he turns around he catches Henry staring at him. He figures that Henry has someone else in his life, but is he in for a surprise when he finds out who it is!
Le Beau Soleil by Christopher Hawthorne Moss
Francois "Frankie" Deramus is a professional gambler and majority owner of the luxurious side-wheeler Le Beau Soleil. Rumors are being spread that he is cheating at cards, and as his reputation as an honest gambler is at stake, he investigates as to who is spreading them. The person is the last one that he would ever suspect and the search does habe some pleasurable moments.
Leveling Up by Jude Dunn
Adam Chandler is a twenty-six year old man who has never let other people's impressions slow him down. On the cusp of getting his third college degree, his goal is to present his ideas to Michio Uzawa, head of research and development of the leading online game company. His boyfriend Ben Randal has set up a special surprise for their first-year anniversary and it turns out to be so much more than what Adam ever expected.
Kitsch me by Mari Donne
Brian and Craig are in bed working on their laptops when Brian comes across a website where people auction off various unusual objects that have religious images on them-such as the Virgin Mary on a piece of toast. Craig notices that the same person has all of the objects up for auction and that the same people buy them. Brian forgets about it but he notices Craig acting a little strangely. Brian finds out the reason why when Craig gives him his dream trip.
Made Good Under Pressure by Maja Rose
It's winter in 1926 New York City, and Billy Jones is standing outside a dance hall listening to the music and watching the rich people coming in and out. He's accosted by a fat man demanding to know what he's there. He's rescued by Eric Hamilton and his sister Julia. Eric is obviously interested in Billy, but Billy has no intention of becoming involved as he doesn't believe that he can fit into Eric's world. It takes an intervention from Julia to break the ice.
Tempest for a Teapot by Andrea Speed
Jake Falconeris a semi-sober private investigator hired by Chambray Lodge to find Princess, his half Maltese, half Yorkshire Terrier, after she goes missing from a park. With the help of his policeman boyfriend Kyle, Jake discovers the unlikely identity of the dognapper.
Small Change by Danni Keane
Dom has been working at Little Lexington, a model village, for six years. He maintains the exhibits, touching up the figures, adding new ones, and quietly longing after Riley, the handsome college student who drives the kiddie train when he's not at school. Someone is moving the figures into less than proper positions, and Dom and Riley are charged with finding out who's doing it. The stakeout leads to more that what Dom ever expected.
Lawrence Frightengale Investigates by Aidee Ladnier & Debussy Ladnier
Larry French, aka Lawrence Frightengale, host of "Terror Time", and his lover Nicholas Benson, aka Myrna Boy, cabaret performer, are scheduled to drive their boss's one -of-a-kind Cadillac ElDorado convertible in the Out & About parade, benefiting gay youth. The car disappears and Larry has two hours to find the car or he will lose his job. With the help of Myrna, Lawrence follows the clues, and it leads them to the last person that would ever be suspected.
Joie de Vivre by Pinkie Rae Parker
Jules has inherented the quaint farm house of his aunt Mathilde located in Albi, France. He spent many summers with her when he was a boy, and she taught him how to cook and experiment with flavors. The farm house is in poor shape and between his restaurant in Toulouse, and not enough money, he sees no way to fix the place up. When a storm reveals just how bad the roof leaks, Jules gets a knock on his door. Henri-a local bully who made Jules miserable as a chlid-is there and tells Jules that Mathilde had hired him to maintain her home for her. The men discover just how much they have in common, and become partners in more than just business.
Philip Collyer vs the Cola Thief by Amy Rae Durreson
Philip Collyer is the good-natured office manager for a medical supply company. He has two things that really brighten his day-his can of cola at lunch and quietly watching Kester Jarrod, the head of the IT department. He gets really angry when someone starts stealing his cola out of the company refrigerator, and plots revenge on the thief. He becomes more than friends with Kester and the identity of the cola thief shocks him to his core.
This anthology is a fantastic and fascinating collection of stories whose various talented authors have brought to glorious and beautiful life. Each story is a gem unto itself and showcases each author's ability to write a lighthearted tale with just a hint of mystery. I absolutely LOVED reading these stories and would happily recommend this anthology to everyone.
Trish's 4 1/2 sweet pea review appears at
http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index.... on June 18, 2013 -
Some really good stories in this anthology, and even the ones I didn't like as much were pleasant reads. Recommended.
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A Kiss in the Dark, Eli Easton
A kiss during a power outage sends Lane on a mission to discover his mysterious kisser. Per the usual with this author, I thought it was totally adorable.
Calberg's House Specialty Blend, Skylar Jaye
Cute litte romance ensues when a lawyer decides to hunt down the owner of his favorite, now out of business, coffee shop.
The Whole Kit and Kaboodle, Ari McKay
Sweet romance between a professor and cute librarian with a secret. I mostly liked it, but some of the dialog was a bit too saccharine for me.
Le Beau Soleil, Christopher Hawthorne Moss
This one is more of a brief mystery than a romance, set in New Orleans in 1855. Since I'm not very familiar with that time period or location and I don't speak any French I had some trouble getting into the setting. I had occasional trouble with point of view changes as well.
Leveling Up, Jude Dunn
This story was great at keeping me off balance. Adam, a game designer, gets a big surprise from his boyfriend for their anniversary. If only real life was like this for CS majors.
Kitsch Me, Mari Donne
This was really cute and very funny. Brian and Craig are two recent grads struggling to get by, when . This quote made me laugh: .
Made Good Under Pressure, Maja Rose
Cute romance between nouveau riche Eric and working class Billy in the 1920s. The narrative voice was very intense although the parentheses annoyed me occasionally. The sex scene was actually pretty hot.
Tempest for a Teacup, Andrea Speed
On-again-off-again boyfriends investigate the disappearance of a dog. I liked the self-deprecating narrator.
Small Change, Danni Keane
The opening of this is fantastic and the setting is really fun and unique. The whole story is really cute and funny and I loved Dom and Riley. Big smile on my face for this story.
Lawrence Frightengale Investigates, Aidee Ladnier & Debussy Ladnier
Lawrence and his boyfriend Myrna investigate the disappearance of their car before a parade. Very lighthearted mystery.
Joie de Vivre, Pinkie Rae Parker
Jules returns to his Aunt's home where he encounters an old childhood bully. This story didn't really do much for me.
Philip Collyer vs the Cola Thief, Amy Rae Durreson
This one is sooooooo good! I'm sort of squeeing with joy over it. Phil and Kester were adorable and the cola plot was really funny. The IT stuff was right on as well. Loved this quote: . Such a great threat!
Overall this was a lighthearted and fun anthology. Amy Rae Durreson, Danni Keane, Eli Easton, and Mari Donne's stories were my favorites. -
4 Stars
In “Tempest for a Teacup” we return to Echo City to spend some time with Jake and Kyle currently in an on-again phase of their relationship. Jake is at work when a twink walks in. He’s Chambray Lodge and his Morkie is missing! Whatever, he’s paying a thousand dollars cash to have Princess found. Jake takes the case. The problem is that day also happens to be his and Kyle’s anniversary. Kyle decides the way to solve this dilemma is to solve the case together. They begin searching around the park where Princess was lost which just happens to have an incredibly good gourmet ice cream truck. Then the Echo City dog pound which turns up nothing. Suddenly Chambray calls Jake with information he’s received a ransom demand for ten thousand dollars. It seems incredibly fishy to both Jake and Kyle. That dog is worth more than ten thousand the Lodge family certainly has enough money to pay much more. They go to the Lodge home to talk to Chambray and find much more than they expected.
It was great to see Jake and Kyle again. As dark as some parts of their story have been with Jake’s drinking and the rampant corruption of Echo City policemen I was a bit surprised this short was so lighthearted. I was sitting in a crowded hallway full of parents waiting for my kid to get out of practice reading this story and laughing out loud about a celebutante sleeping with a “lesser Kardashian.” Yeah, I got looks. And I’m excited about what could maybe be another book for them. Or at least the fact Kyle sees them together long enough to solve mysteries together. I would, of course, be very thankful if that happened on paper, and I could read it.
The mystery in “A Kiss in the Dark” is about a stolen kiss in (you guessed it!) the DARK! I think the synopsis for this is really sexy… Lane is at a Xmas party, and he is wearing his lavender shirt. His starched lavender shirt. Irresistible right? When the lights go out somebody grabs hold of him and pushes him up against the wall, kissing the hell out of him! When the lights come back on again – nobody seems to be the obvious perpetrator. Who can it be? And can Lane get over it?
This story is an absolute gem – cute, funny and sexy! The story is told through Lane’s POV and he is a treat! He works with his close friend Josh, running their own business and from that kiss on – he is looking at everyone through “lavender tinted glasses”. Can you imagine how bittersweet to have experienced what is, to date, the best kiss of your life? And have no clue who it could be? Lane has a reputation for being a bit of a player, so he is hesitant to come out and ask people who had been at the party if they saw anything – as that would entail admitting how easily he surrendered to the kiss. So he enlists the help of his straight housemate, who suggests hypnosis. Fun times! Go. Buy the Book!
See the Posse's full review at
Live Your Life, Buy The Book -
This was a great collection of stories. I highly recommend it. There were only a couple I did not enjoy. All were supposedly mysteries involving gay male romance, but a few stretched this rule. In almost every case, I figured out the culprit quickly, but it was the telling of the story that was more important.
A kiss in the dark
Someone gets kissed when the lights go out, and we have to identify the mystery man. There's an interfering mother as well as the main characters.
Calberg's house specialty blend
A coffee shop disappears, and a former customer misses his favorite beverage. He gets what he needs in the end.
The whole kit and caboodle
Academia is the setting, and there's a drag queen involved. Usually I don't like cross-dressing, but this one was good.
Le beau soleil
The action takes place in New Orleans in 1855 and on a riverboat. The MC wants to quash some rumors that damage his reputation. Not my favorite.
Leveling up
A trick is played with good intent. This one made me uncomfortable.
Kitch me
I skimmed this story. It's about making money selling junk and paying back your partner.
Made good under pressure
This might have been my favorite story. I was even more impressed when I learned the author is only 21. One giveaway that she is not American was the airing cupboard in a New York apartment. I think that's a British thing, but maybe people here had them in 1921 when this story is set. Another thing that bothered me was the two men dancing together and making out in public. Wouldn't that have landed them in jail? Oh, and all the characters deliver multi-page perfectly worded speeches when conversing.
Ok, suspending my disbelief now. It's about two men who meet outside a dance hall plus a sister used solely as a device to get them together. The two men are from different social classes, which is the only thing keeping one of them from pursuing a relationship with the other. I was afraid it would dangle a possibility before us and end in regret, but thankfully the story continued a long while. It's pretty thin as a mystery, but as a romance it is beautiful.
Tempest for a teacup
Silly story about a lost dog.
Small change
Cute story about an introvert and the man he wants. One unresolved issue is a supposed boyfriend of the object of lust, who is not explained away by the end.
Lawrence Frighengale investigates
I skimmed this story about a drag queen, a missing car, a couple redheads, and old tv stars.
Joie de vivre
It took a few pages to get into this one, but by the end I was sad it was over. I would love a longer novel with the main characters.
Philip Collyer vs the cola thief
This author is the reason I bought the collection. Sadly no fantasy here, but still a fun story. Someone is stealing soda with good but mistaken intensions. All turns out well. This was well written and characterized, with lots of humor. -
I can't give this anthology a rating yet, because I haven't finished it. But I'll try to rate stories as I read them, and then give a rating to the anthology overall, when I'm done.
"A Kiss in the Dark" by Eli Easton (5 stars): A very sexy premise, well executed and well written. Yes, I figured out who the "guilty" man was before the reveal, but that actually helped, because I found him very sexy, the way he was described. And the interaction between Lane and his housemate and coworkers was very funny and entertaining. -
Some lovely stories in this collection, especially:
A Kiss in the Dark by Eli Easton
Small Change by Danni Keane
Philip Collyer vs. the Cola Thief by Amy Rae Durreson -
Ari McKay's The Whole Kit and Kaboodle (5 stars)
The Whole Kit and Kaboodle
Grey is a professor and he has been crazy about Henry for 2 years. Henry is attracted to Grey as well but continues to turn him down. Henry thinks Grey is dating someone and decides to follow him home to see what the boyfriend looks like. Henry is surprised when Grey goes to a gay club in a shady area of town. When Henry finds out what his composition really is, he's more than ready for the task of winning Grey's heart.
This is a cute, fast read. Henry and Grey are great together. -
Overall I enjoyed the stories in this anthology
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2 stories stood out in this anthology
A Kiss in the Dark by Eli Easton
Philip Collyer vs. the Cola Thief by Amy Rae Durreson -
3.5 stars
A Kiss in the Dark by Eli Easton - 4, 5 stars
Calberg’s House Specialty Blend by Skylar Jaye - 3 stars
The Whole Kit and Kaboodle by Ari McKay - 2,5 stars
Le Beau Soleil by Christopher Hawthorne Moss - 1,5 stars
Leveling Up by Jude Dunn - 2,5 stars
Kitsch Me by Mari Donnelly - 2 stars
Made Good Under Pressure by Maja Rose - 2 stars
Tempest for a Teacup by Andrea Speed - 3 stars
Small Change by Danni Keane - 3 stars
Lawrence Frightengale Investigates by Aidee & Debussy Lanier - 3,5 stars
Joie de Vivre by Pinkie Rae Parker - 2 stars
Philip Collyer vs. the Cola Thief by Amy Rae Durreson - 4 stars -
I'm not very familiar with the rest of the authors save for Eli Easton and I really loved a Kiss In The Dark! Lane and Josh are just awesome!!! :) #geekalert!!! I really loved it!
For this story, it's a solid 5 stars! I have to read the rest then will come update this review :) -
Only read Small Changes so far and I loved it. I thought it was cute and inventive. Danni Keane is fast becoming one of my favorite authors.
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3 stars overall. 4 stars for the Amy Are Durreson and Christopher Hawthorne Moss stories.
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3.5 stars
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For now I've only read Philip Collyer vs. the Cola Thief by Amy Rae Durreson, sweet and funny but nothing like her fantasy.
