2020-2021 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Hair Balls (Balls to the Wall)

Hair Balls (Balls to the Wall) by Tara Lain

I have not read any of the previous books in the series but that didn't matter. The MCs characters leapt off the page and kept me turning pages because I needed to know how their relationship would develop. The story arc was very satisfying and well supported by a cast of minor characters. I shall be reading more by this author in the future.

https://amzn.to/2YUmgDM

2020-2021 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: When I First Saw Red (The Soldiers and Mercenaries)

When I First Saw Red (The Soldiers and Mercenaries) by Kasia Bacon

Extremely enjoyable read! Though I would have liked it to be longer (there are large stretches of time between events that are not included in the story), the world was so well-developed and the characters such a delight to spend time with, I was a most happy camper. The prose is silky and sumptuous but never over the top, and I appreciate a good misunderstanding/pinefest between two stubborn folks. These boys sure delivered! Also, hawt. I love that they got their happy ending, and would gladly read more in this magical universe.

https://amzn.to/3DM0YqX

2020-2021 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: The Voyages of Cinrak the Dapper

The Voyages of Cinrak the Dapper by A.J. Fitzwater

Very inventive fantasy plot, but it’s episodic and the cuteness is grown-worthy in places. Vivid descriptions of a sea coast and ocean weather. All anthropomorphic animals, all queer or non-binary, intended to be whimsical. Engaging, swift-moving style, but sometimes the author loses track of the pronouns.

https://amzn.to/3n3WwNl