What do you think?
Rate this book
Dakota Skies
Born in the wrong time...
In 1875 Dakota, Sheriff Jamie Carter has to hide his interest in men, even from his gutsy twin sister, Anna. On a good day, the truth can mean a bullet between the eyes, and on a bad, one in the back.
A man on a mission...
Jamie leaves Anna in charge of Blackrock and he hits the bounty hunting trail, along with his faithful equine companion, Houston. Five territories, scores of ‘Wanted’ posters, and many bullets later, his path unexpectedly converges with that of enigmatic loner, Kit Brooks.
Two men with one soul...
Will the smoldering fire between them rage into an inferno and break down protective barriers, allowing them to find love? Or will it separate and kill them?
Beneath Dakota skies...
Jamie and Kit’s story is a sweeping saga of cowboys, Indians, persistent broads, and vengeful villains, where the cowboys aren't always the good guys, and love can’t be taken for granted.
In 1875 Dakota, Sheriff Jamie Carter has to hide his interest in men, even from his gutsy twin sister, Anna. On a good day, the truth can mean a bullet between the eyes, and on a bad, one in the back.
A man on a mission...
Jamie leaves Anna in charge of Blackrock and he hits the bounty hunting trail, along with his faithful equine companion, Houston. Five territories, scores of ‘Wanted’ posters, and many bullets later, his path unexpectedly converges with that of enigmatic loner, Kit Brooks.
Two men with one soul...
Will the smoldering fire between them rage into an inferno and break down protective barriers, allowing them to find love? Or will it separate and kill them?
Beneath Dakota skies...
Jamie and Kit’s story is a sweeping saga of cowboys, Indians, persistent broads, and vengeful villains, where the cowboys aren't always the good guys, and love can’t be taken for granted.
359 pages, ebook
First published September 10, 2014
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
August 18, 2015
So much to love here, and so much dragging it down. The concept of this story was great, but it would have benefitted from more aggressive editing to tighten the storyline and eliminate multiple sloughs that bogged it down.
I think much of it has to do with the writing style which is much more reminiscent of a mini-series than a novel. There were several plot line spin-outs, diversions in the tale that were interesting, but I just wasn't expecting and made the story feel really long. A lot longer than it is.
This is written in a history-as-we-wish it style to some degree. It is a western featuring twins who become sheriffs, which is highly unrealistic for a female and male siblings to hold the position, the same title, cost and no woman would be hired as such. Rules of society are relaxed in the territories, but not that much.
What was lovely was the inclusion of the Sioux storyline. There was rich character development in Mason and Daniel. The highlighted difference between "town" and "Indian" beliefs were both interesting and thought provoking, making the reader question who is truly the savage.
There are also some point-of-view decisions that made sense, but distance the reader and slowed down the pace. The third person omniscience in first chapter to explain the characters, time and setting. Fine for establishing the setting, but it did flicker back and forth from omniscient to third person and hopping back and forth between the characters. Additionally, the flash backwards and forwards in time were not seamless. Finally, the unnatural dialogue between Kit (Daniel) and Jay when they first met was awkward.
I thought this was a romance about Jay, the sheriff, and Daniel. But in reality it is about Jay and his sister Anna. We follow whole sections that have nothing to do with Jay as in chapter four. We head back to Anna in Blackrock and the town's goings on. In fact, the first romance has nothing to do with Jay, but his sister and the first kiss is undeniably heterosexual female sheriff and visiting older male gambler.
There are some inconsistencies and just things that made me do a double take. Anna hears noise from her brother's room at night and opens it to spy on two individuals having sex--clearly one's going to be her brother since it's his room so her surprise after the fact was not believable. Additionally, watching her spying on her brother in what has otherwise been a fairly wholesome story is a bit odd, out of place, and off-putting.
One of my favorite things about the story and redeemed it enough that I wanted to finish it was the fantastic knowledge of tribal territories seamlessly woven into the story. Clearly, the author devoted time to the history and maps and it showed. There was just too much minutiae and side plot lines to be an truly engaging read for me. If you're looking for a meandering historical western then this will suit you.
Overall, I loved parts of this story, but it dragged in several places and I stopped multiple times.
2.5 Stars
~~A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
~~~Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews~~~~
I think much of it has to do with the writing style which is much more reminiscent of a mini-series than a novel. There were several plot line spin-outs, diversions in the tale that were interesting, but I just wasn't expecting and made the story feel really long. A lot longer than it is.
This is written in a history-as-we-wish it style to some degree. It is a western featuring twins who become sheriffs, which is highly unrealistic for a female and male siblings to hold the position, the same title, cost and no woman would be hired as such. Rules of society are relaxed in the territories, but not that much.
What was lovely was the inclusion of the Sioux storyline. There was rich character development in Mason and Daniel. The highlighted difference between "town" and "Indian" beliefs were both interesting and thought provoking, making the reader question who is truly the savage.
There are also some point-of-view decisions that made sense, but distance the reader and slowed down the pace. The third person omniscience in first chapter to explain the characters, time and setting. Fine for establishing the setting, but it did flicker back and forth from omniscient to third person and hopping back and forth between the characters. Additionally, the flash backwards and forwards in time were not seamless. Finally, the unnatural dialogue between Kit (Daniel) and Jay when they first met was awkward.
I thought this was a romance about Jay, the sheriff, and Daniel. But in reality it is about Jay and his sister Anna. We follow whole sections that have nothing to do with Jay as in chapter four. We head back to Anna in Blackrock and the town's goings on. In fact, the first romance has nothing to do with Jay, but his sister and the first kiss is undeniably heterosexual female sheriff and visiting older male gambler.
There are some inconsistencies and just things that made me do a double take. Anna hears noise from her brother's room at night and opens it to spy on two individuals having sex--clearly one's going to be her brother since it's his room so her surprise after the fact was not believable. Additionally, watching her spying on her brother in what has otherwise been a fairly wholesome story is a bit odd, out of place, and off-putting.
One of my favorite things about the story and redeemed it enough that I wanted to finish it was the fantastic knowledge of tribal territories seamlessly woven into the story. Clearly, the author devoted time to the history and maps and it showed. There was just too much minutiae and side plot lines to be an truly engaging read for me. If you're looking for a meandering historical western then this will suit you.
Overall, I loved parts of this story, but it dragged in several places and I stopped multiple times.
2.5 Stars
~~A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
~~~Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews~~~~
October 1, 2014
Hmm. I’m all conflicted on how a feel about this book. There were so many things that I liked, and just as many things that I didn’t.
For the first 50% of the story, I could not put my Kindle down. I think I may have even read to that point all in one day. Then I struggled for thirteen more days to finish it. So what happened that it started out so well and took a turn in the opposite direction?
In the beginning, the story was all about Jay, one of the co-sheriffs of Blackrock. He shares the job with his badass twin sister Anna. They took over the position a few years prior after their father, the previous sheriff, was killed during a raid by a group called the Valdez. Jay decides to take some time off from acting sheriff and travel his way down to Texas as a bounty hunter. His two objectives: learn all he can about the Valdez…and finally figure out his sexuality.
So what did I like about this book?
The Story. For the first half of the book, I was really into Jay’s journey. I liked his bounty hunting tales and his developing friendship with Kit/Daniel. Once Jay finally returns to Blackrock in the second half, I really enjoyed the everyday life and drama of the town and Jay and Daniel’s ideas of how to exist together without outing themselves.
The Characters. In the beginning, there were soooo many characters being named that I had to start writing them all down! And thank goodness I did because almost all of them were mention or appeared again at some point in the story. Second to the overall story, the dynamic and likable characters really made this story work for me. I even CRIED at the death of an important character! I liked how we also get to see some of the other characters’ stories…especially Mason and Anna. Gawd I loved Anna! I actually would have loved to have seen an ENTIRE secondary plot telling more about her life instead of just the bits and pieces that were told, but that probably would have been frowned upon by most readers.
The Culture. There is a lot of Western and Native American culture detailed throughout the story. Once I forgave the verbiage inaccuracies for the time period, I could respect the time the author spent on the Sioux tribe aspects. I have absolutely no idea if any of those details were historically accurate, but I enjoyed it for what it was. I REALLY loved the soul sharing twist.
So what did I not like about this book?
The Head-hopping POV Changes. This will forever be a pet-peeve of mine and I will continue to complain about it every time I see it. There should NEVER EVER be two person’s POVs taking place in the same paragraph. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!! I wish every author would clearly delineate when there are POV shifts! I was re-reading in so many places because I simply could not tell whose head I was in. In this book, we get a little bit over everyone’s POV: from the MCs, to the sister, to many other secondary characters to a rapist that only appears in two scenes in the entire book! Okay, I can forgive getting so many POVs because I loved every time it was from Anna’s or Mason’s…but mixing them all together is a no-no.
The Flowery Prose. Sometimes it works, but most of the time it doesn’t. It DID NOT work for me at all in this book. I don’t know if it was bad throughout the entire story, or if I just noticed it more during the second half once Jay and Kit/Daniel started having sex. It eventually got so distracting that the passionate scenes between them were completely lost on me and ended up being more humorous that sexy. For example:
No no no no no no no no no…THAT IS NOT HOT!
I am always quick to DNF a book that doesn’t interest me, so obviously there was enough here to keep me reading; Jay and Daniel deserved to have their own HEA and I wanted to see Jay get his revenge on the Valdez. I think with a good editing and a lot of slimming down, this could have had the potential to be an amazing story.
In the end…Good story, but the execution could have been better.
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
For the first 50% of the story, I could not put my Kindle down. I think I may have even read to that point all in one day. Then I struggled for thirteen more days to finish it. So what happened that it started out so well and took a turn in the opposite direction?
In the beginning, the story was all about Jay, one of the co-sheriffs of Blackrock. He shares the job with his badass twin sister Anna. They took over the position a few years prior after their father, the previous sheriff, was killed during a raid by a group called the Valdez. Jay decides to take some time off from acting sheriff and travel his way down to Texas as a bounty hunter. His two objectives: learn all he can about the Valdez…and finally figure out his sexuality.
So what did I like about this book?
The Story. For the first half of the book, I was really into Jay’s journey. I liked his bounty hunting tales and his developing friendship with Kit/Daniel. Once Jay finally returns to Blackrock in the second half, I really enjoyed the everyday life and drama of the town and Jay and Daniel’s ideas of how to exist together without outing themselves.
The Characters. In the beginning, there were soooo many characters being named that I had to start writing them all down! And thank goodness I did because almost all of them were mention or appeared again at some point in the story. Second to the overall story, the dynamic and likable characters really made this story work for me. I even CRIED at the death of an important character! I liked how we also get to see some of the other characters’ stories…especially Mason and Anna. Gawd I loved Anna! I actually would have loved to have seen an ENTIRE secondary plot telling more about her life instead of just the bits and pieces that were told, but that probably would have been frowned upon by most readers.
The Culture. There is a lot of Western and Native American culture detailed throughout the story. Once I forgave the verbiage inaccuracies for the time period, I could respect the time the author spent on the Sioux tribe aspects. I have absolutely no idea if any of those details were historically accurate, but I enjoyed it for what it was. I REALLY loved the soul sharing twist.
So what did I not like about this book?
The Head-hopping POV Changes. This will forever be a pet-peeve of mine and I will continue to complain about it every time I see it. There should NEVER EVER be two person’s POVs taking place in the same paragraph. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!! I wish every author would clearly delineate when there are POV shifts! I was re-reading in so many places because I simply could not tell whose head I was in. In this book, we get a little bit over everyone’s POV: from the MCs, to the sister, to many other secondary characters to a rapist that only appears in two scenes in the entire book! Okay, I can forgive getting so many POVs because I loved every time it was from Anna’s or Mason’s…but mixing them all together is a no-no.
The Flowery Prose. Sometimes it works, but most of the time it doesn’t. It DID NOT work for me at all in this book. I don’t know if it was bad throughout the entire story, or if I just noticed it more during the second half once Jay and Kit/Daniel started having sex. It eventually got so distracting that the passionate scenes between them were completely lost on me and ended up being more humorous that sexy. For example:
Releasing his grip, Daniel slumped back onto the mattress. He reached for his man and brought him into a lust-filled attack on his plump, wanting mouth. After losing themselves to the tantalizing meal of tongues, Jay didn't kiss--he ate his way down Daniel's body, using his pole as dessert. Erection and cream was on the menu. Daniel could imagine the description.
Play with this satisfying, tempting dish for an extended time and you'll get a surprise.
It wasn't long before erection and cream was devoured, and the 'Pud-in-pie' train ride was on. Jay prepared Daniel, and soon a soaked carriage was ready to piston its way into a dark tunnel to drop its load.
No no no no no no no no no…THAT IS NOT HOT!
I am always quick to DNF a book that doesn’t interest me, so obviously there was enough here to keep me reading; Jay and Daniel deserved to have their own HEA and I wanted to see Jay get his revenge on the Valdez. I think with a good editing and a lot of slimming down, this could have had the potential to be an amazing story.
In the end…Good story, but the execution could have been better.
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
October 2, 2014
“I'll follow you down, through the eye of the storm. Don't worry; I'll keep you warm. ... I'll follow you down to where forever lies. Without a doubt, I'm on your side. There's nowhere else that I would rather be. ... I'll keep you close to me!” ~Shinedown
In the Wild West, a person didn't know from one day to the next whether they would make it through in one piece. The landscape is relentless, and its inhabitants, man or beast, more often than not, deadly. Jamie (Jay) Carter, of 'Dakota Skies' by Taylin Corvelli, knows these facts quite well. In his years as sheriff, Jamie has seen all types. He and his twin sister took over as co-sheriffs when their father was killed by outlaws. If that weren't dangerous enough, Jamie has a secret; he prefers men. He's hidden it as long as he can stand to, then sets out, in a new occupation, bounty hunting, to give him more space to make sense of his life.
Jamie has had enough of the town and the people of Blackrock. They are always expecting more of him than he can give, with them trying to marry him off to their daughters, he's tired of being pushed around. The pressure gets to be too much and he decides he needs to get away for a while. He takes a job as a bounty hunter, perhaps even more dangerous than that of sheriff, and cuts a swath through the blanket of criminals, bringing in many of them dead, if the poster says dead or alive. Jamie is a practical man and a dead body is a lot easier to deal with than a live one. It simplifies matters for him.
Along the way, Jamie meets Kit who saves his life, even before they are introduced, which endears Jamie to him immediately. Jamie is also quite impressed by Kit's skills, i.e., his knowledge of the area, knife wielding; knowledge of natural healing remedies, horses, and his tracking abilities. The fact that Kit is handsome doesn't hurt either. As they travel together, Jamie's feelings for Kit begin to grow and he becomes more sure than ever that he is attracted to men rather than women. Kit is a mystery. Jamie senses that there's a war going on inside of him which he can't quite name. Although the traveling is hard, Jamie wishes the trip would never end. He knows he loves Kit and soon can't imagine doing without him.
Kit (Daniel) is an unusual man with more skeletons in his closet than in a graveyard. He, too, prefers men, but, it almost cost him his life and sanity once so he keeps a low profile with no entanglements with men. Kit is a fugitive, accused of crimes he didn't commit; there is a price on his head which makes it even more surprising that he saves Jamie, a bounty hunter, when he is in trouble. Kit usually stays away as far as possible from anyone in law enforcement. He is attracted to Jamie, but is terrified to get too close. He's been hurt enough to last a lifetime, by his own family. He's not willing to trust anyone. He introduces Jamie to the Sioux who became his family after his blood relatives made it impossible for him to stay with them. Members of the Sioux tribe took him in and eventually accepted him as one of their own. Jamie and Kit's relationship is accepted there and it's tempting to stay.
This is an epic love story told by an omniscient narrator, in a lyrical style which proves to be more than appropriate for the characters, setting, and action. While reading, I felt as if I were watching a cowboy movie or TV series. The manner in which the chapters are divided and named was like reading episodes rather than sections of the book. There's so much more of the story to tell, but my review would be too long. Jamie and Kit have so many unexpected twists and turns in their journey that are alternately sad, happy, ugly, and beautiful, I was crying one minute and smiling the next. Jamie and Kit go through more than their share of trouble while trying to stay together and live safely and happily. Although a bit slow and rough in places, it's well written and enjoyable. If you like reading about life in the Wild West, Native American culture, strong women and men, cowboys, outlaws, suspense, adventure, intrigue, and passion, you will probably appreciate this book. Thanks, Taylin. I enjoyed following Jamie and Daniel through all their adventures.
NOTE: This book was provided by Wayward Ink Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
In the Wild West, a person didn't know from one day to the next whether they would make it through in one piece. The landscape is relentless, and its inhabitants, man or beast, more often than not, deadly. Jamie (Jay) Carter, of 'Dakota Skies' by Taylin Corvelli, knows these facts quite well. In his years as sheriff, Jamie has seen all types. He and his twin sister took over as co-sheriffs when their father was killed by outlaws. If that weren't dangerous enough, Jamie has a secret; he prefers men. He's hidden it as long as he can stand to, then sets out, in a new occupation, bounty hunting, to give him more space to make sense of his life.
Jamie has had enough of the town and the people of Blackrock. They are always expecting more of him than he can give, with them trying to marry him off to their daughters, he's tired of being pushed around. The pressure gets to be too much and he decides he needs to get away for a while. He takes a job as a bounty hunter, perhaps even more dangerous than that of sheriff, and cuts a swath through the blanket of criminals, bringing in many of them dead, if the poster says dead or alive. Jamie is a practical man and a dead body is a lot easier to deal with than a live one. It simplifies matters for him.
Along the way, Jamie meets Kit who saves his life, even before they are introduced, which endears Jamie to him immediately. Jamie is also quite impressed by Kit's skills, i.e., his knowledge of the area, knife wielding; knowledge of natural healing remedies, horses, and his tracking abilities. The fact that Kit is handsome doesn't hurt either. As they travel together, Jamie's feelings for Kit begin to grow and he becomes more sure than ever that he is attracted to men rather than women. Kit is a mystery. Jamie senses that there's a war going on inside of him which he can't quite name. Although the traveling is hard, Jamie wishes the trip would never end. He knows he loves Kit and soon can't imagine doing without him.
Kit (Daniel) is an unusual man with more skeletons in his closet than in a graveyard. He, too, prefers men, but, it almost cost him his life and sanity once so he keeps a low profile with no entanglements with men. Kit is a fugitive, accused of crimes he didn't commit; there is a price on his head which makes it even more surprising that he saves Jamie, a bounty hunter, when he is in trouble. Kit usually stays away as far as possible from anyone in law enforcement. He is attracted to Jamie, but is terrified to get too close. He's been hurt enough to last a lifetime, by his own family. He's not willing to trust anyone. He introduces Jamie to the Sioux who became his family after his blood relatives made it impossible for him to stay with them. Members of the Sioux tribe took him in and eventually accepted him as one of their own. Jamie and Kit's relationship is accepted there and it's tempting to stay.
This is an epic love story told by an omniscient narrator, in a lyrical style which proves to be more than appropriate for the characters, setting, and action. While reading, I felt as if I were watching a cowboy movie or TV series. The manner in which the chapters are divided and named was like reading episodes rather than sections of the book. There's so much more of the story to tell, but my review would be too long. Jamie and Kit have so many unexpected twists and turns in their journey that are alternately sad, happy, ugly, and beautiful, I was crying one minute and smiling the next. Jamie and Kit go through more than their share of trouble while trying to stay together and live safely and happily. Although a bit slow and rough in places, it's well written and enjoyable. If you like reading about life in the Wild West, Native American culture, strong women and men, cowboys, outlaws, suspense, adventure, intrigue, and passion, you will probably appreciate this book. Thanks, Taylin. I enjoyed following Jamie and Daniel through all their adventures.
NOTE: This book was provided by Wayward Ink Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 1, 2014
Original Blog Post (Friday, September 12, 2014) Happy Happy Release Day!! Blitz & eARC Review: Dakota Skies by Taylin Clavelli
My Rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars
For Cowboy Romance Lovers
There is something about a great story unfolding gradually and with surety that grips my attention. I love cowboy stories and am a great lover of old cowboy movies. Dakota Skies is a cowboy story that brought back much of those old movies to mind. It was written without hesitation, the imagery of the action when these did happen was vivid, and the sense of quiet of the environment and the thoughts of the men was very strong.
This is a story, short and simple. It is the story of how two young people's lives could change in an instant. The decisions resulting from those changes set the course of their young lives be it for the good or for the bad.
Sheriff Jamie Carter and twin sister, Sheriff Anna, had been thrust into this trusted but dangerous position from the day their town was decimated by a wandering gang. On the death of their father, the Sheriff, they took over the responsibility of keeping the law and their small town safe. Jamie had to decide though, he had to make some money, look for the gang of killers and to think. He was comfortable in his shoes as a law man and did not hesitate to use that law with his trusty gun. What he was not comfortable about was his growing attraction to men. It was an age where homosexuality was not only considered taboo but was punishable by death.
Kit Brooks was a loner but he knew the land well and used it to its full advantage. Stumbling into a stranger whose horse stole the bed rolls was totally unexpected but hilarious as hell. When he decides to save the life of the stranger, he never thought it would be to someone he would feel a closeness, attraction and a loving to. Especially when said stranger was travelling as a bounty hunter. A lawman by the name of Jay. Deciding to keep his secret to himself was the best course of action but it could lead to their developing friendship and relationship to confusion, misunderstanding and danger.
This was such a beautifully, delicious piece of story told and it did not skimp on romance, action, gore and intrigue. This is a story where the conflicting opinions on sexuality are clearly laid out: Native American culture versus Western culture. As this is set in the Old West, it is clearly a conflicting set of opinions, especially when the spirit world comes into play.
The minor cast of characters, both real and spiritual, have huge roles here. Without their stories told, Dakota Skies would not have come out complete at all. From the stories of Anna, Morgan, Mason, Tala and even Houston and Nutty, they were such great characters that completed this tale of Old West cowboy adventure story.
As for the romance of Kit and Jay, theirs is a real romance here peppered with a bit of sizzling scenes between the two. However, it is their journey into the spirit world where they are best shown to their advantage, especially when they get guided through the course they finally decide on by the spirits who understood that their love was something that should only be cherished.
Definitely a must read and I loved it.
My Rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars
For Cowboy Romance Lovers
There is something about a great story unfolding gradually and with surety that grips my attention. I love cowboy stories and am a great lover of old cowboy movies. Dakota Skies is a cowboy story that brought back much of those old movies to mind. It was written without hesitation, the imagery of the action when these did happen was vivid, and the sense of quiet of the environment and the thoughts of the men was very strong.
This is a story, short and simple. It is the story of how two young people's lives could change in an instant. The decisions resulting from those changes set the course of their young lives be it for the good or for the bad.
Sheriff Jamie Carter and twin sister, Sheriff Anna, had been thrust into this trusted but dangerous position from the day their town was decimated by a wandering gang. On the death of their father, the Sheriff, they took over the responsibility of keeping the law and their small town safe. Jamie had to decide though, he had to make some money, look for the gang of killers and to think. He was comfortable in his shoes as a law man and did not hesitate to use that law with his trusty gun. What he was not comfortable about was his growing attraction to men. It was an age where homosexuality was not only considered taboo but was punishable by death.
Kit Brooks was a loner but he knew the land well and used it to its full advantage. Stumbling into a stranger whose horse stole the bed rolls was totally unexpected but hilarious as hell. When he decides to save the life of the stranger, he never thought it would be to someone he would feel a closeness, attraction and a loving to. Especially when said stranger was travelling as a bounty hunter. A lawman by the name of Jay. Deciding to keep his secret to himself was the best course of action but it could lead to their developing friendship and relationship to confusion, misunderstanding and danger.
This was such a beautifully, delicious piece of story told and it did not skimp on romance, action, gore and intrigue. This is a story where the conflicting opinions on sexuality are clearly laid out: Native American culture versus Western culture. As this is set in the Old West, it is clearly a conflicting set of opinions, especially when the spirit world comes into play.
The minor cast of characters, both real and spiritual, have huge roles here. Without their stories told, Dakota Skies would not have come out complete at all. From the stories of Anna, Morgan, Mason, Tala and even Houston and Nutty, they were such great characters that completed this tale of Old West cowboy adventure story.
As for the romance of Kit and Jay, theirs is a real romance here peppered with a bit of sizzling scenes between the two. However, it is their journey into the spirit world where they are best shown to their advantage, especially when they get guided through the course they finally decide on by the spirits who understood that their love was something that should only be cherished.
Definitely a must read and I loved it.
October 4, 2014
After the death of their father by a gang of outlaws, twins Jay and Anna Carter become the new joint sheriffs of Blackrock in Dakota. As twins, the two of them have a special bond, but there's something Jay can't even share with his sister. Jay likes men and in the time they live in, to admit such a thing could be as good as painting a target on his back.
Restless and confused, Jay leaves Blackrock for a while to become a bounty hunter on the less-travelled trails. Jay soon has either killed or captured every wanted man he sets his sights on and his tracking skills soon become legendary. So much so, that Jay, thinking himself invincible, finds himself in trouble while riding through some Native territories.
Jay is grateful to his rescuer, a man claiming to be Kit Brooks, and soon finds himself in lust with this rugged stranger. But can Jay even admit to such feelings? He doesn't really know who Kit his and as the book progresses, it becomes clear that Kit too has secrets of his own.
Now, I'm not normally one for westerns, but since it was an M/M western, I decided to give it a go and I was pleasantly surprised. Jay and Kit were fantastic leads, both so unsure and nervous of each other and their feelings at first, and then gradually they came together, but not without a bit of angst at first.
The book had everything you would expect in a western: saloon fights, bar brawls, feisty women and bank robbers. But like with any story, its heart lay with the characters, particularly Jay and Kit in this instance. The love scenes between them were both hot and sensual, with an almost poetical quality to them.
The supporting characters are also well-drawn, I loved Anna, Jay's sister, she was a bit of a firebrand. Some people might consider that a bit unrealistic, but these are women in the Wild West, I think they would have been feisty and tough, not demure wallflowers.
There was a bit of a problem for me in the book. A lot of the time the dialogue is paraphrased, and you get a sentence something like "they discussed this, they discussed that" rather than the characters telling you the dialogue in their own words. It slowed the pace somewhat and I would have preferred more direct dialogue myself. Perhaps it's just a personal preference, but it did jar me out of the story somewhat.
However, saying that, if you enjoy a rollicking western adventure with some hot m/m romance thrown in for good measure, then I'm sure you'd enjoy this. I certainly did.
Restless and confused, Jay leaves Blackrock for a while to become a bounty hunter on the less-travelled trails. Jay soon has either killed or captured every wanted man he sets his sights on and his tracking skills soon become legendary. So much so, that Jay, thinking himself invincible, finds himself in trouble while riding through some Native territories.
Jay is grateful to his rescuer, a man claiming to be Kit Brooks, and soon finds himself in lust with this rugged stranger. But can Jay even admit to such feelings? He doesn't really know who Kit his and as the book progresses, it becomes clear that Kit too has secrets of his own.
Now, I'm not normally one for westerns, but since it was an M/M western, I decided to give it a go and I was pleasantly surprised. Jay and Kit were fantastic leads, both so unsure and nervous of each other and their feelings at first, and then gradually they came together, but not without a bit of angst at first.
The book had everything you would expect in a western: saloon fights, bar brawls, feisty women and bank robbers. But like with any story, its heart lay with the characters, particularly Jay and Kit in this instance. The love scenes between them were both hot and sensual, with an almost poetical quality to them.
The supporting characters are also well-drawn, I loved Anna, Jay's sister, she was a bit of a firebrand. Some people might consider that a bit unrealistic, but these are women in the Wild West, I think they would have been feisty and tough, not demure wallflowers.
There was a bit of a problem for me in the book. A lot of the time the dialogue is paraphrased, and you get a sentence something like "they discussed this, they discussed that" rather than the characters telling you the dialogue in their own words. It slowed the pace somewhat and I would have preferred more direct dialogue myself. Perhaps it's just a personal preference, but it did jar me out of the story somewhat.
However, saying that, if you enjoy a rollicking western adventure with some hot m/m romance thrown in for good measure, then I'm sure you'd enjoy this. I certainly did.
September 18, 2014
Set in the 19th century, twins Jamie (Jay) and Anna Carter have recently taken over as co-sheriffs in the town of Blackrock. Due to his family history in the town, as well as the secret he's been carrying around for years, Jamie is burned out. He soon decides to leave home and become a bounty hunter. His skill at tracking down criminals is unmatched, and he soon builds quite a reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
After crossing into Native American territory, Jay is aided by a mysterious stranger who provides much needed survival advice and eventually saves his life. Extremely grateful to the handsome stranger, Jay convinces Kit to be his traveling companion. The sheriff in Jay soon comes out as he tries to solve the puzzle of this enigmatic man who has not only captured his attention, but his heart as well.
Kit is also hiding a secret that could mean life or death for him. Even though he knows the dangers of traveling with a known bounty hunter and former sheriff, he can’t seem to let Jay go, enjoying his company and the entertainment he and his horse, Houston, provide. Not only could Kit's secret destroy his life and eradicate his freedom, it could also rip apart the bond he’s formed with Jay.
I've read Taylin Clavelli's work in the past and I can easily vouch for her as a wonderful storyteller. I was very impressed by the amount of detail she incorporated into this book, but it’s not unnecessary filler. Her research has allowed her to paint a realistic and impressive landscape that makes the reader feel as though he/she is riding side by side with Jay and Kit, listening to their conversations and witnessing their developing feelings for one another.
Not only did the love story between Jay and Kit draw me in, but the supporting characters were well-rounded and interesting people as well. I loved the Mason character and really enjoyed the interactions Jay and Kit had with Kit's Native American family.
If you're in the mood for a good, old-fashioned western with an m/m romance twist, Dakota Skies is definitely the book for you!
Wayward Ink Publishing provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Dakota Skies book trailer.
After crossing into Native American territory, Jay is aided by a mysterious stranger who provides much needed survival advice and eventually saves his life. Extremely grateful to the handsome stranger, Jay convinces Kit to be his traveling companion. The sheriff in Jay soon comes out as he tries to solve the puzzle of this enigmatic man who has not only captured his attention, but his heart as well.
Kit is also hiding a secret that could mean life or death for him. Even though he knows the dangers of traveling with a known bounty hunter and former sheriff, he can’t seem to let Jay go, enjoying his company and the entertainment he and his horse, Houston, provide. Not only could Kit's secret destroy his life and eradicate his freedom, it could also rip apart the bond he’s formed with Jay.
I've read Taylin Clavelli's work in the past and I can easily vouch for her as a wonderful storyteller. I was very impressed by the amount of detail she incorporated into this book, but it’s not unnecessary filler. Her research has allowed her to paint a realistic and impressive landscape that makes the reader feel as though he/she is riding side by side with Jay and Kit, listening to their conversations and witnessing their developing feelings for one another.
Not only did the love story between Jay and Kit draw me in, but the supporting characters were well-rounded and interesting people as well. I loved the Mason character and really enjoyed the interactions Jay and Kit had with Kit's Native American family.
If you're in the mood for a good, old-fashioned western with an m/m romance twist, Dakota Skies is definitely the book for you!
Wayward Ink Publishing provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Dakota Skies book trailer.
October 9, 2014
Jamie is a gay man when being gay could get you killed. Being a sheriff of a town is hard enough, even with his twin sister's help, but having to hide who he really is kills him a little each day. To get away and try to find himself he decides to leave town and become a bounty hunter. He works his way from Dakota down to Texas, earning a reputation as a take no prisoner hard ass. When he gets to Texas he visits with family and gets their promise to contact him if they ever hear about movement of the gang that killed his father.
On his way back north he gets into trouble when he crosses into Indian territory but is saved by a mysterious man. Kit has been in self exile for a while. He rarely sees, much less talks to anyone. He follows Jamie after hearing Jamie sing; something draws him in. After saving Jamie they travel together and the attraction between them sizzles but both men are hesitant to voice their attraction. Jamie invites Kit back to his town with him but Kit can't or won't follow him all the way.
Jamie goes home and tries to get on with his life, but Kit is on his mind constantly. When they are reunited can they actually build a life together? How can they hide what they are when the heat between the two threatens to burn down their lives?
I absolutely love this book. The characters are well written and the story draws you in from the beginning. There are enough twists and turns to keep you involved. I would love to see a second book to update us to what is happening in all the characters of this story!
On his way back north he gets into trouble when he crosses into Indian territory but is saved by a mysterious man. Kit has been in self exile for a while. He rarely sees, much less talks to anyone. He follows Jamie after hearing Jamie sing; something draws him in. After saving Jamie they travel together and the attraction between them sizzles but both men are hesitant to voice their attraction. Jamie invites Kit back to his town with him but Kit can't or won't follow him all the way.
Jamie goes home and tries to get on with his life, but Kit is on his mind constantly. When they are reunited can they actually build a life together? How can they hide what they are when the heat between the two threatens to burn down their lives?
I absolutely love this book. The characters are well written and the story draws you in from the beginning. There are enough twists and turns to keep you involved. I would love to see a second book to update us to what is happening in all the characters of this story!
October 9, 2014
Title: Dakota Skies
Author: Taylin Clavelli
Cover Artist: Lily Velden in Collaboration with Jay's Cover Design
Publisher: Wayward Ink Publishing
Reviewer: Sean
Genre: Historical
Type: Romance
Pairing: Gay, Questioning, & Heterosexual
Length: Long Novel
Heat Rating: ♨♨♨
Book Rating: ★★★★½
This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Review:
The blurb got me curious and I am actually not a huge fan of historical but this book surprising was that great. I enjoyed pretty much everything about it. It was a comfort read; at least it was for me. I fell in love with the book but there were certain areas in the book that dragged on much too long. I think some of scenes could be omitted and still had the book as strong as possible.
Read More
Author: Taylin Clavelli
Cover Artist: Lily Velden in Collaboration with Jay's Cover Design
Publisher: Wayward Ink Publishing
Reviewer: Sean
Genre: Historical
Type: Romance
Pairing: Gay, Questioning, & Heterosexual
Length: Long Novel
Heat Rating: ♨♨♨
Book Rating: ★★★★½
This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Review:
The blurb got me curious and I am actually not a huge fan of historical but this book surprising was that great. I enjoyed pretty much everything about it. It was a comfort read; at least it was for me. I fell in love with the book but there were certain areas in the book that dragged on much too long. I think some of scenes could be omitted and still had the book as strong as possible.
Read More
January 2, 2015
What can I say about this book? I've been a fan of Taylin since fanfiction and I've had the chance to talk with her on FB several times and she's a terrific person.
I love this book because it made me feel every single thing the MC were feeling: love, fear, pain..
Taylin can write...I felt like I was inside the book and touching every single thing through her words.
Plus, who doesn't love cowboys?
5 to 5 stars.
I love this book because it made me feel every single thing the MC were feeling: love, fear, pain..
Taylin can write...I felt like I was inside the book and touching every single thing through her words.
Plus, who doesn't love cowboys?
5 to 5 stars.
Read
February 5, 2015 Just not getting into this, will try at a later time
February 14, 2016
I was involved in the editing of this book and found it to be an enjoyable tale full of great characters and plenty of action.
December 13, 2018
I absolutely adored this book. It was the first one that I've read by this author and won't be the last.
Shelved as 'unable-to-finish'
October 29, 2014DNF@9% -- thanks for the sample! Sadly, it doesn't really mesh with my taste in a few ways.
July 10, 2015
Nicely done western saga. More to the story than just Jamie and Kit. Very interesting supporting characters. Like the idea of the Sioux tribe and the spirit world.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews