Unholy Craving (Sinful Natures #1) by Lynn Burke ❤️❤️❤️❤️

 

Forbidden Romance

Conservative, bible thumping community, led by the hypercritical Pastor Bram, with his surprisingly enlighted son, Isaac; goes head-to-head with the guild ridden, shame laden youth minister, Malachai. Between the nine year age difference, Isaac is only seventeen when they meet, and Malachai's position of power, Unholy Craving sets the stage for a very taboo romance.

How Isaac has resisted buying into his dad's teaching is a testament to his strength and self awareness. The wily way this young man directs Malachi, from the first moment they meet, is really nicely done. Lynn Burke gets deep into Isaac's head, and explores this character beautifully.

We get Malachai's story slowly, as his resistance to Isaac's advances war with his interpretations of God's Word. Weak sinner that he is, and mired in his guilt and shame, Pastor Malachai is ripe for corruption, and Isaac's advances are impossible for him to resist.

One of the most interesting parts of Unholy Craving, is how thoroughly Lynn Burke explores Pastor Bram, and how this man interprets the Bible. The person Bram shows his family, the personna he shows his community, at war with the loving father he perceives himself to be, makes him a fascinating character.

There's plenty of erotic romance woven in with the Christian fundamentalism, and a happily ever after for these young lovers. Plus, the possiblity for a sequel, Zeke's story, is on the very near horizon.

Torn (En Pointe, #1) by Mickie B. Ashling ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Fans of Mickie B. Ashling already know to expect the unexpected. There's a unique flavor to her writing, and if you haven't yet had the experience, her latest novel Torn is the perfect place to start!

In the first episode in her new En Pointe series, Torn, Mickie B. Ashling lays the groundwork for an epic story. The pacing is spectacular, and the unresolved conflicts had me on the edge of my seat. I literally could not put this book down, so if you’ve got plans for a good night’s sleep, save this one for the weekend!

Clearly the scope of this series is going to be immense. Several generations, and extended branches of Misha’s family have their stories told. Using alternating points of view, we get to know Misha as well as his father, half-brother, and his best friend. Mickie B. Ashling does an amazing job of capturing the flavor of each character, giving them each a unique voice. These are clearly all central figures to the tale, and we have just scraped the tip of what ties them all together.

Torn begins with Kazimir’s story and introduces all the principal characters. While much of Torn focuses around his son, Misha, Kazimir’s complex character provides a unique insight into the drama as it unfolds. Plus, I have a feeling Kaz will continue to be a major player in future episodes of this series.

Filled with fascinating details of sixteen year old Misha’s life as a principal ballet dancer, Mickie B. Ashling paints a vivid picture of life in St. Petersburg, Russia. The daily ploys and plotting of the young folks, the pageantry of the ballet performances, the intrigue of the political climate, and some intense family drama, prove endlessly entertaining.

Over the course of the novel, Misha faces some intense challenges both professionally and personally. Coping with the physical and emotional stresses of securing a principal role in his ballet company. Meeting his half siblings, uncovering the secrets surrounding his birth. And, most importantly, facing up to his attraction to his best friend and how his admissions will affect his relationship with his long-term girlfriend. These monumental changes have him reeling.

None of the characters are native English speakers, and most of the novel takes place in St. Petersburg. There’s a faint sensation throughout the story as though the whole thing is translated into English, which creates a marvelous atmosphere. It’s masterfully executed, and definitely works to enhance the whole experience.

It’s been several years since we’ve had a new book from Mickie B. Ashling and I’m thrilled with Torn. I’ve got my fingers crossed for many more episodes of the En Pointe series, and hopefully the next novel will be out shortly!