I was totally in the mood for some sweet M/M contemporary romance and Not a Game delivered. It so delivered. This one is on the top of my Cardeno C. favorites list. If you need an angst-free, loving romance with some hot sex, Not a Game is perfect.

Places in Time is a funny, sexy short story worth listening to. As an added bonus, Cardeno C.—or Ginger, rather—has a lesson to teach us. Sometimes we all need a good kick in the pants to see what is right in front of our noses!

I will admit I never thought I could love this book more. But I do. If you are a true die hard romantic, you really need to pick up this book.

This story spanned two decades, and Cardeno C did an amazing job blending large stretches of time as well as alternating POV. The story was simultaneously light and weighty, with CC bringing us fun and humorous moments, but balancing that with serious relationship issues, and even a little bit of heartache. For me, the strongest part of this book was the narration. The way Charlie/Chase tells his story, while engaging the reader at the same time, was a joy to read. I really fell in love with Charlie's character, and admired the way he was comfortable with who he was, and how he gave his whole heart to those that he loved. He's spunky, charming, and caring, and I have no doubt that anyone who reads this book will want to be his best friend....Sassy, steamy, and even a little silly, More Than Everything really was a joy to read.

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…