This is a sexually and emotionally charged story ...They're drawn to each other time and again and while the sex is off the charts there's an attraction that exists beyond the physical. Reading about these two men falling in love was so enjoyable for me. On the surface they're very opposites attract but at their core the men are so similar in their desires and in what they want out of a relationship. It was just such a moving and passionate read that I know I'll go back to it again and again.

Cardeno C.'s moving and insightful novella, A Shot at Forgiveness, provides a rather different view of the bullying many gay and lesbian children and teens are forced to endure. ... Is it credible that in some situations the bully is more confused about and tormented by his sexuality than his victim? In my own view, for whatever it's worth, that might explain more than a few cases of bullying. Without including spoilers in this review, I can say there are even more surprising turns in A Shot at Forgiveness than a famous and wealthy NBA MVP's making contact with his former victim. I can also affirm that the way Cardeno C. shapes the story makes them all believable. They certainly don't happen every day, but who'd wish to write or read about every-day matters? I must also praise Cardeno C.'s writing style... Rafi and Isaac's story won me over. I highly recommend it.

OMG, I completely fell for Spencer. He's so sweet, a little vulnerable, shy, and totally has no idea of his own worth. He actually believed his ex and thinks he's dull, unattractive, and not good in bed. And, who couldn't absolutely adore Emilio? A hunky stud who is gentle and is looking for the long-term guy to share his life with. Emilio wants what his parents, his brothers and his sister have all found, the love of his life and he's fairly certain that person is Spencer. ... Watching Spencer and Emilio get to their happy ever after was really lovely. It was everything I had hoped for in this love story and I wasn't disappointed at all.

... Partly that is because Charlie is a fabulous narrator. I just loved his dialog and his inner voice. ... He is confident and sharp witted and determined to be himself. ... Charlie is also the heart of the story, the person who ties the three men together, the one who is the nurturer and the caregiver and who is the rock that builds their family. ... I will be vague on the details here to avoid spoiling some significant events, but I will just say the three men reunite and there is an opportunity for them to all three be together. Again, the author really shows us how far these three men have come over the years (it has been about 20 since the start of the book). ..The three men are fabulous together and all make a perfect family... So I totally adored this story and it is my favorite for sure by this author. I loved the slow sweetness to the story. It is actually fairly light on the sex, at least by this author's standards, but at the same time, the passion and intensity between these men when they are together is amazing. Just the smallest scenes are so heated and meaningful. They are so sexy and romantic and loving that I just adored them. I loved Charlie's humor and narration, loved the way the story builds one relationship at a time until ultimately it all comes together. I just adored the whole thing. Exceptionally well…

As I am writing this review, I am realizing this book has a bit of a Romeo and Juliet feel. Two lovers from opposite worlds with families that hate one another, destined to be together despite their differences and the disapproval of others. It is subtle, but definitely there as we explore the worlds of both vampires and shifters in this story. I just love that combination, and author Cardeno C does a great job creating this world where the two exist as enemies. ... It was an interesting take on these two paranormal groups and one that was well developed. But the highlight of this story for me is Ethan and Miguel. I just adored both of them. Ethan is a force to be reckoned with. Despite being small and sick and much younger than Miguel, he has determination and passion for what he believes. Once Ethan realizes Miguel is his mate, he doesn't hesitate one moment in his conviction that they are meant to be together. He is willing to give up his old life and march himself right into Miguel's, despite Miguel's bewilderment at this force of nature. ....I just adored Ethan. Despite being small and young, he is brave and committed and full of determination. I found him incredibly endearing and couldn't help but root for him. Miguel is also a great character. He is the fiercest of all the vampires, old and powerful and dangerous. But he treats Ethan with such care and love right…