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Matrix of Destiny #3
Mine to Take
In a galaxy far, far away, beautiful Jenise will do anything to escape marriage to her late stepfather's evil brother, Karpon. When she discovers that Karpon has captured a powerful shapechanger, Gian Ren, she decides to make him an offer he can't refuse. Gian Ren has been drugged, stripped, and chained to a wall. Despite his circumstances, Jenise is wary, for even chained the shapechanger is formidable. Surprisingly, he accepts her unusual request that he deflower her in exchange for her aid in escaping. Gian passionately accomplishes his part of the bargain and within moments, the two set off on a perilous journey, fleeing from Karpon and his soldiers. Mine to Take has action, adventure, and enough steamy sensuality to light up the night sky. H-O-T!
400 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1998
204 people are currently reading
1,219 people want to read
About the author
Dara Joy
28books303followersBlazing new trails in experimental fiction is a top priority for Dara Joy. Her novels break all the rules and have captured a huge audience. Her unique works have gone on to receive numerous awards.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
April 13, 2017
I hate to admit it. I really do. Shame on me but I liked this romance. I enjoyed it years ago and I still did on a reread.
It was cheesy, had a fair amount of purple prose and a cat. A man-cat. A manly-man alpha cat.
~~~
I read this series when it was first published (1990s). Even though I don't remember anything exciting with the first two stories -except #1 was a sort-of cliffhanger and you needed book 2-, this one stuck with me.
The initial meeting between the H/h was insta-___. Let's just say 'insta' and normally I would have stopped reading it. But Gian Ren grows on you. Jenise? She's alright.
Gian was a shape-shifter: a cat. Actually, a large cat and he had a personality to match. He was a rascal: playful, stubborn and loveably possessive. He purred and liked hisfur hair stroked.
Jenise was going to be forced into marriage with the villain of the story and needed help. Gian Red was a prisoner of her realm and she promised to release him if he helped her to escape. Little did she know that after the insta, the Cat Man had other plans.
Besides the violaceous purply-prose and a weak confrontation with the creepy old scoundrel, this romance was just plain fun.
~~~
Here kitty, kitty.........
It was cheesy, had a fair amount of purple prose and a cat. A man-cat. A manly-man alpha cat.
~~~
I read this series when it was first published (1990s). Even though I don't remember anything exciting with the first two stories -except #1 was a sort-of cliffhanger and you needed book 2-, this one stuck with me.
The initial meeting between the H/h was insta-___. Let's just say 'insta' and normally I would have stopped reading it. But Gian Ren grows on you. Jenise? She's alright.
Gian was a shape-shifter: a cat. Actually, a large cat and he had a personality to match. He was a rascal: playful, stubborn and loveably possessive. He purred and liked his
Jenise was going to be forced into marriage with the villain of the story and needed help. Gian Red was a prisoner of her realm and she promised to release him if he helped her to escape. Little did she know that after the insta, the Cat Man had other plans.
Besides the violaceous purply-prose and a weak confrontation with the creepy old scoundrel, this romance was just plain fun.
~~~
Here kitty, kitty.........
March 26, 2008
OK, I want a Gian Ren too! He's the king of all Familiars, beings who can take the form of both a cat and a human. Familiars are also intensely sensual and sexual (picture me fanning myself about now). Jenise needs to escape from her evil uncle who plans to wed her and become king by taking her virginity. When she hears he captured a familiar, she decides to rid herself of her virginity using the captive. Gian recognizes Jenise as his mate and refuses to leave her behind. This book was interesting and arousing to read. The growth of their relationship during their journey to Gian's homeland was realistic (or as realistic as sci-fi/fantasy gets). This book stands alone but be warned, you will likely end up wanting to buy the other books in this series to see where events here fit in the storyline!!
June 19, 2017
Last week, I re-read all 3 of the Matrix books published by Dorchester. I haven't been able to read them for some time (I was one of those who got caught in the author's mismanagement of her self-publishing scheme years ago) but I used to love these three books. I was glad to revisit them and be reminded of how much I enjoyed the stories. They're just...fun. They have sensuality, a sense of humor and fun, and were unique in their world building (even despite some of the derivative elements). It's a major shame we'll never know the stories of other characters like Dariq or Traed, or see the resolution of Rejar's story. I know many, many readers who've long enjoyed these stories.
July 9, 2020
2.5 Stars
Throughout the years I’ve stumbled across this series, and I needed a “different colored� eyed MC for a reading challenge so I decided to give it a shot. This was released in 1998, and IMO DJ was pretty progressive for the time. I don’t know of a ton of paranormal romance around then, and none that are really erotica w/ kink� so props for that!!
The book blurb explains the plot, and there’s enough reviews out there if you want the run down, so I’ll make this brief. I did not read the first two books, (only the blurbs & reviews) but didn’t feel overly lost. I didn’t find “their world� overly complicated; it mostly revolves around two races: Aviara’s and Familiar’s. (Familiars are sexy cat shifters & A’s have wizards and warriors) From what I’ve read, it appears this h (Jenise) is the least annoying of the three “full size� books, and I found her likeable enough. Although her constant hang-ups/musings about men of power got old. She’s part of another race, but their only “special power� is a sexy dance they can only perform once to their sole mate. Gian Ren is a super sexy alpha cat-man. He had enough personality to make up for J’s lack of, and was entertaining. He recognizes her as his mate straightaway, so pretty much LURVES her hard for the entire book.
I liked it “ok�, but it felt like it dragged on, and I skimmed some. There’s a lot of crossover from the other/previous characters (where the MC’s disappear for those chapters) that wasn’t bad� I just didn’t really care about what they had going on. It appears that the author sort of flaked on the series. The rest of the books are novellas that center around characters that I don’t believe were in this one. It felt like she dropped the ball on Dariq and Traed’s stories. Not to mention the threat of Karpon, and Rejar’s deal.
Bottom Line- This is a KU read and listen so the audio is included, but I didn’t listen to it, so I can tell you how it is. :) I did enjoy it, but not enough to read the other books. I waffled a bit on the rating, because it feels like she deserves more than 2, so I gave her 2.5 and rounded up. She really was out there before this genre became really popular, and her world is very creative.
Throughout the years I’ve stumbled across this series, and I needed a “different colored� eyed MC for a reading challenge so I decided to give it a shot. This was released in 1998, and IMO DJ was pretty progressive for the time. I don’t know of a ton of paranormal romance around then, and none that are really erotica w/ kink� so props for that!!
The book blurb explains the plot, and there’s enough reviews out there if you want the run down, so I’ll make this brief. I did not read the first two books, (only the blurbs & reviews) but didn’t feel overly lost. I didn’t find “their world� overly complicated; it mostly revolves around two races: Aviara’s and Familiar’s. (Familiars are sexy cat shifters & A’s have wizards and warriors) From what I’ve read, it appears this h (Jenise) is the least annoying of the three “full size� books, and I found her likeable enough. Although her constant hang-ups/musings about men of power got old. She’s part of another race, but their only “special power� is a sexy dance they can only perform once to their sole mate. Gian Ren is a super sexy alpha cat-man. He had enough personality to make up for J’s lack of, and was entertaining. He recognizes her as his mate straightaway, so pretty much LURVES her hard for the entire book.
I liked it “ok�, but it felt like it dragged on, and I skimmed some. There’s a lot of crossover from the other/previous characters (where the MC’s disappear for those chapters) that wasn’t bad� I just didn’t really care about what they had going on. It appears that the author sort of flaked on the series. The rest of the books are novellas that center around characters that I don’t believe were in this one. It felt like she dropped the ball on Dariq and Traed’s stories. Not to mention the threat of Karpon, and Rejar’s deal.
Bottom Line- This is a KU read and listen so the audio is included, but I didn’t listen to it, so I can tell you how it is. :) I did enjoy it, but not enough to read the other books. I waffled a bit on the rating, because it feels like she deserves more than 2, so I gave her 2.5 and rounded up. She really was out there before this genre became really popular, and her world is very creative.
April 5, 2018
Oh hey, I forgot I write reviews to these sometimes.
Soooo...it was...okay. I feel like I was more on board during the beginning of the book and I was actually starting to be like "You know what? It's a little rough around the edges. The descriptions get a little repetitive and the world-building could stand to be a little more vivid and specific considering it's a sci-fi/fantasy romance but it's not the worst thing I've read."
Then around chapter ten, things get a little nonconsensual and I personally don't dig that very much. My knee-jerk opinion on a lot of stuff, especially sex stuff, has changed over the years and now I can see my own feelings about the attitudes that seem prevalent in st8 romances is less "guys being dominant" (which I don't have a problem with in it of itself) but "men being dominant in a way that the woman in the situation doesn't ask for and is kind of forced into consenting to because it just feels good so it's not REALLY like she's saying no." except she is, sometimes literally with by saying 'No, stop. I don't want this.' or more the body language.
And Gian ties up and sexually tortures Jenise because she LOOKS at another guy, just a guy passing by her. I'm supposed to find that sexy and charming and go "Oh U"? Really, "Mine to Take"? You gonna do me like that? I was ON BOARD for your nonsense and your overuse of the word 'feline' and 'cat' because I GET IT: GIAN CAN TURN INTO A CAT. Overstating the obvious at that point.
(Sigh) I'm not MAD, just a little disappointed. My standards for romance must have fallen a bit if that and the gradual sliding of interest by Chapter Ten means before then, I was at least curious to see where the story would go and I was tricked (Tricked, I say!) by having the book open with Gian tied up like "hot guy, in bondage? way to stack the deck in your favor."
It's fine. For me, it was a pretty short read and I'm actually kind of surprised I was able to blaze through it so quickly. (shrug)
Soooo...it was...okay. I feel like I was more on board during the beginning of the book and I was actually starting to be like "You know what? It's a little rough around the edges. The descriptions get a little repetitive and the world-building could stand to be a little more vivid and specific considering it's a sci-fi/fantasy romance but it's not the worst thing I've read."
Then around chapter ten, things get a little nonconsensual and I personally don't dig that very much. My knee-jerk opinion on a lot of stuff, especially sex stuff, has changed over the years and now I can see my own feelings about the attitudes that seem prevalent in st8 romances is less "guys being dominant" (which I don't have a problem with in it of itself) but "men being dominant in a way that the woman in the situation doesn't ask for and is kind of forced into consenting to because it just feels good so it's not REALLY like she's saying no." except she is, sometimes literally with by saying 'No, stop. I don't want this.' or more the body language.
And Gian ties up and sexually tortures Jenise because she LOOKS at another guy, just a guy passing by her. I'm supposed to find that sexy and charming and go "Oh U"? Really, "Mine to Take"? You gonna do me like that? I was ON BOARD for your nonsense and your overuse of the word 'feline' and 'cat' because I GET IT: GIAN CAN TURN INTO A CAT. Overstating the obvious at that point.
(Sigh) I'm not MAD, just a little disappointed. My standards for romance must have fallen a bit if that and the gradual sliding of interest by Chapter Ten means before then, I was at least curious to see where the story would go and I was tricked (Tricked, I say!) by having the book open with Gian tied up like "hot guy, in bondage? way to stack the deck in your favor."
It's fine. For me, it was a pretty short read and I'm actually kind of surprised I was able to blaze through it so quickly. (shrug)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2008
A man to make a woman purr in more ways than one�
The whole premise of an otherwordly galaxy, of Familiars, Charls, and such were very interesting � the introduction of Gian Ren in the first chapter was sure to hook the reader head on. Case in point:
“He tossed his hair back and viewed her through half-lowered eyes. The eyes of the ultimate pursuer. Secretive, disciplined, and sexual. His voice was a low, rumbling purr…�
In fact, Gian unapologetically dominates the love story, with his obvious magnetism, good ‘ol gallantry, and contagious sense of humor. Jenise, although herself a bit strong-willed, still displayed moments of helplessness in the face of the Familiar’s sensual assault (it’s okay…we understand how you must have felt). The interaction between the two was definitely electric. Their lovemaking very passionate without being risqué.
Though I enjoyed the story, I admit I was not quite satisfied with the whole anti-climactic feel to it. There were a lot of half-finished stories � what with the revenge of Karpon, the fate of the badly-injured Dariq, the menace of the Observer, and the destiny of Traed and Rejar. Sometimes the love story of Gian and Jenise took a backseat when the other characters� stories had to be told in portions. And the ending part, after Gian’s Incarnation, felt a little hurried. There should have been more emotional weight given on the decisions Jenise had to take concerning accepting being queen of the Familiars, the choices Gian had had to make in taking her to M’yan.
What it all boils down to, anyway, is that I’m now itching to have the rest of the series. Dara Joy certainly knows how to dangle a story and make her reader clamor for more. Despite some reservations, this was an entertaining read.
The whole premise of an otherwordly galaxy, of Familiars, Charls, and such were very interesting � the introduction of Gian Ren in the first chapter was sure to hook the reader head on. Case in point:
“He tossed his hair back and viewed her through half-lowered eyes. The eyes of the ultimate pursuer. Secretive, disciplined, and sexual. His voice was a low, rumbling purr…�
In fact, Gian unapologetically dominates the love story, with his obvious magnetism, good ‘ol gallantry, and contagious sense of humor. Jenise, although herself a bit strong-willed, still displayed moments of helplessness in the face of the Familiar’s sensual assault (it’s okay…we understand how you must have felt). The interaction between the two was definitely electric. Their lovemaking very passionate without being risqué.
Though I enjoyed the story, I admit I was not quite satisfied with the whole anti-climactic feel to it. There were a lot of half-finished stories � what with the revenge of Karpon, the fate of the badly-injured Dariq, the menace of the Observer, and the destiny of Traed and Rejar. Sometimes the love story of Gian and Jenise took a backseat when the other characters� stories had to be told in portions. And the ending part, after Gian’s Incarnation, felt a little hurried. There should have been more emotional weight given on the decisions Jenise had to take concerning accepting being queen of the Familiars, the choices Gian had had to make in taking her to M’yan.
What it all boils down to, anyway, is that I’m now itching to have the rest of the series. Dara Joy certainly knows how to dangle a story and make her reader clamor for more. Despite some reservations, this was an entertaining read.
March 4, 2017
So this is the best of the three IMHO. I don't know why Dara Joy insists on creating such asshole heroes... Gian Ren didn't quite make the title of asshole, as her previous two Heroes did, but comes close on occassion. In one respect, he's funny and loving and very protective of her. He can be a genuinely charming Hero. But in another he lies to her and he manipulates her into doing things she doesn't want to do. He feels sneaky..as though everything he does with her has an ulterior motive...to get her to stay with him. And she's overly stubborn. Half the time she's outright annoying because she keeps insisting she needs to get away from him and be on her own.I get that she wants her freedom and isn't ready to be tied down, but she fights it overly long too.
And nothing pisses me off in a book more than when a Hero is in the wrong (and let's face it, he is - he's forcing her to stay and he lied to her) and doesn't have to grovel or apologize for it. Just because he's Gian Ren and he's charming and sexy and arrogant is no excuse for it. So I didn't like that. But the on the run romance was very exciting and I enjoyed the book as a whole. There were just certain aspects that I didn't appreciate so much. Mostly though it was really great to finally learn some of the secrets of the Familiars.
And nothing pisses me off in a book more than when a Hero is in the wrong (and let's face it, he is - he's forcing her to stay and he lied to her) and doesn't have to grovel or apologize for it. Just because he's Gian Ren and he's charming and sexy and arrogant is no excuse for it. So I didn't like that. But the on the run romance was very exciting and I enjoyed the book as a whole. There were just certain aspects that I didn't appreciate so much. Mostly though it was really great to finally learn some of the secrets of the Familiars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2024
Тадж Джайън Рен и Дженис
Джайън Рен е фамилиер, най-силният измежду фамилиерите, най-опасният и най-чистокръвният. В търсене на един фамилиер той се озовава на една варварска планета където попада в капан и бива упоен със странен наркотик, който претъпява сетивата му. Държан окован и дрогитан постоянно, Джайън чака наркотика в системата му да отслабне и да намери удобен случай да избяга. Съществата, които го държат в плен са открили вторият таен и незащитен портал към света на фамилиерите, Ма'ан и смятат да го използват, за да пленят народа му. Най-неочаквано спасението се появява в лицето на една дребна дръзка жена от народа Ферензе, за която всички инстинкти на Джайън нашепват, че е истинската му половинка. Сега той не просто трябва да спаси себе си, но и нея.
Дженис е жена от народа Ферензе, които са скитници и номади обикалящи планетите на длъж и шир. Когато е била много малка, владетелят на планетата се жени насила за майка й, затваряйки и двете в златна клетка. Сега майка й и доведения й баща са мъртви, а брата на баща й Карпон иска да завземе властта на планетата и да се ожени за Дженис. Дженис е обичана от хората на планетата, но за да ги управлява, нещо което тя не иска да прави, тя трябва да е девица. Но Карпон я иска за жена и иска да е крал затова измисля план, да даде Дженис на Фамилиера и след като тя прекара нощ с него, той ще го екзекутира публично, задето е осквернил Дженис и след това благородно ще я направи своя съпруга. Дженис обаче има друг план, т�� иска да напусне тази планета и е говота да сключи сделка с пленника, която да помогне и на двама им да се измъкнат невредими от лапите на Карпон.
Това е една от най-най-най-любимите ми книги. Джайън е най-прекрасния герой на света. Палав и закачлив, уверен и безсърашен, нежен и любвеобилен, смел и силен. Той знае какво иска и как да го постигне, за него няма пречки или прегради. Посреща всяко предизвикателство с огромна усмивка и се хвърля безстрашно във всяка битка. Обожавам толкова много аспекти в тази книга. Още в началото, когато Начините по които постоянно защитаваше Дженис. Най-любимата ми сцена от книгата е, когато
Имахме доста сцени с Трейд, който най-после беше признат за член на семейството на Кру, братът на майка му. Имаше и много сцени с Реджар, който отключи своите сили на Чарл и ще бъде най-могъщият от десето нови. Но за нещастие авторката не е развила повече историята, няма други книги за Реджар, който е "Надареният". Навпрочем българското заглавие на тази книга е крайно неточно, тъй като Джайън не е Надареният, това е Реджар. Но като цяло тази феноменална поредица би могла да е наистина уникална, но не е довършена за жалост. Иначе наистина Обожавам точно тази книга и вярвам, че всеки трябва да я прочете поне веднъж.
Джайън Рен е фамилиер, най-силният измежду фамилиерите, най-опасният и най-чистокръвният. В търсене на един фамилиер той се озовава на една варварска планета където попада в капан и бива упоен със странен наркотик, който претъпява сетивата му. Държан окован и дрогитан постоянно, Джайън чака наркотика в системата му да отслабне и да намери удобен случай да избяга. Съществата, които го държат в плен са открили вторият таен и незащитен портал към света на фамилиерите, Ма'ан и смятат да го използват, за да пленят народа му. Най-неочаквано спасението се появява в лицето на една дребна дръзка жена от народа Ферензе, за която всички инстинкти на Джайън нашепват, че е истинската му половинка. Сега той не просто трябва да спаси себе си, но и нея.
Дженис е жена от народа Ферензе, които са скитници и номади обикалящи планетите на длъж и шир. Когато е била много малка, владетелят на планетата се жени насила за майка й, затваряйки и двете в златна клетка. Сега майка й и доведения й баща са мъртви, а брата на баща й Карпон иска да завземе властта на планетата и да се ожени за Дженис. Дженис е обичана от хората на планетата, но за да ги управлява, нещо което тя не иска да прави, тя трябва да е девица. Но Карпон я иска за жена и иска да е крал затова измисля план, да даде Дженис на Фамилиера и след като тя прекара нощ с него, той ще го екзекутира публично, задето е осквернил Дженис и след това благородно ще я направи своя съпруга. Дженис обаче има друг план, т�� иска да напусне тази планета и е говота да сключи сделка с пленника, която да помогне и на двама им да се измъкнат невредими от лапите на Карпон.
Това е една от най-най-най-любимите ми книги. Джайън е най-прекрасния герой на света. Палав и закачлив, уверен и безсърашен, нежен и любвеобилен, смел и силен. Той знае какво иска и как да го постигне, за него няма пречки или прегради. Посреща всяко предизвикателство с огромна усмивка и се хвърля безстрашно във всяка битка. Обожавам толкова много аспекти в тази книга. Още в началото, когато Начините по които постоянно защитаваше Дженис. Най-любимата ми сцена от книгата е, когато
Имахме доста сцени с Трейд, който най-после беше признат за член на семейството на Кру, братът на майка му. Имаше и много сцени с Реджар, който отключи своите сили на Чарл и ще бъде най-могъщият от десето нови. Но за нещастие авторката не е развила повече историята, няма други книги за Реджар, който е "Надареният". Навпрочем българското заглавие на тази книга е крайно неточно, тъй като Джайън не е Надареният, това е Реджар. Но като цяло тази феноменална поредица би могла да е наистина уникална, но не е довършена за жалост. Иначе наистина Обожавам точно тази книга и вярвам, че всеки трябва да я прочете поне веднъж.
July 5, 2018
This was a unique read and a highly sensual story. It's based off a cat shifter but he seems more than just a cat shifter. I'm not sure what Jenise is either. The author did a great job of creating unique characters, different races as well as the world's they live in.
The story is of Gian Ren and Jenise's journey from her land to his. He was captured by Karpon who is scheming to become King of Jenise's, stepfathers people. She is basically a prisoner there as well and bargained with him to take her away with him if she frees him. He was very willing to do so and very protective of her.
We do get moments of other side characters in the story but since I haven't read the first two books, I don't know much about them. While, I didn't feel like I needed to read them first, I really liked the writing and will be picking up book 1.
I borrowed on Kindle Unlimited and listened to the audiobook. I loved the narrator. She did a fantastic job and now I know how all these odd names are pronounced.
The story is of Gian Ren and Jenise's journey from her land to his. He was captured by Karpon who is scheming to become King of Jenise's, stepfathers people. She is basically a prisoner there as well and bargained with him to take her away with him if she frees him. He was very willing to do so and very protective of her.
We do get moments of other side characters in the story but since I haven't read the first two books, I don't know much about them. While, I didn't feel like I needed to read them first, I really liked the writing and will be picking up book 1.
I borrowed on Kindle Unlimited and listened to the audiobook. I loved the narrator. She did a fantastic job and now I know how all these odd names are pronounced.
April 18, 2018
Startlingly superb space fantasy. Political intrigue, planet hopping, lots of clever species and world building. I didn't feel overwhelmed by the amount of terminology or new world orders introduced, and the love story was fun and playful. A joy to read.
January 5, 2012
3-1/2 star rating, really.
I didn't get from the summary that this was a mystical story; I'm not usually drawn to those as such. But I enjoyed this very much.
On the positive side, the characters were intriguing. They, especially Gian, could have come off as cartoonish, but the author used a very light hand, and the elements of the story that could have come off as annoying, such as Familiars such as Gian being so sensory-based, worked here.
For the most part.
I could buy that his senses and his ability to give to the senses of others were heightened. Fair enough. Some readers may be put off by Gian's possessive side and especially that he didn't tell Jenise he had mated with her permanently, which seems to be the Familiar answer to marriage. The author tries to balance his deception with Jenise's own, at the onset, with her using him to rid herself of her maidenhood in order to save her kingdom from her evil step-father.
Okay, the evil, one-dimensional step-father can be excused, I guess, because this story definitely appears out of the mist of fairytales. But a bit more motivation behind him or something to round his character better, rather than just the pursuit of power would have made for a more interesting character - and strengthened her motivations in trying to bargain with Gian for sex.
And I did like how the whole story had a sort of a hazy, misty quality to it, as if it was from some place far, far away. Nice voice. Also, nice pace - never dragged. The author made honest attempts to have Jenise strong and yet very feminine. Kudos to that.
I have to say the ending was very weak with no real climax, even given their "Incarnation sex." That could have been much better - if there had been any reason to think one of them might actually die. While that was mentioned once, that it could be dangerous for one or both them, there was no hint of that during the actual scene. No danger. No threat. Not even internal - pardon the pun. And there were obvious dodges into the next or previous books (I've not read), too obvious for my blood. Yes, Traed was interesting, but the overt "read the next book" thing irks me.
But sex does play a huge part in this book - without excuses. That said, the sex is caring, loving and romantic without being too graphic. It also had that gentle touch and worked because of the author's interesting set up of Gian's character. I liked that and enjoyed those scenes. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the other worlds - that was interesting. But Jenise's blind stupidity in not realizing she'd end up staying with Gian grew annoying. So she wanted to wander - her motivation to do so, in the face of the obvious danger she'd be in - was not compelling enough. She came off as sounding childishly naive to the point of stupid at times.
I'm looking for more from this author. This book was a great escape.
I didn't get from the summary that this was a mystical story; I'm not usually drawn to those as such. But I enjoyed this very much.
On the positive side, the characters were intriguing. They, especially Gian, could have come off as cartoonish, but the author used a very light hand, and the elements of the story that could have come off as annoying, such as Familiars such as Gian being so sensory-based, worked here.
For the most part.
I could buy that his senses and his ability to give to the senses of others were heightened. Fair enough. Some readers may be put off by Gian's possessive side and especially that he didn't tell Jenise he had mated with her permanently, which seems to be the Familiar answer to marriage. The author tries to balance his deception with Jenise's own, at the onset, with her using him to rid herself of her maidenhood in order to save her kingdom from her evil step-father.
Okay, the evil, one-dimensional step-father can be excused, I guess, because this story definitely appears out of the mist of fairytales. But a bit more motivation behind him or something to round his character better, rather than just the pursuit of power would have made for a more interesting character - and strengthened her motivations in trying to bargain with Gian for sex.
And I did like how the whole story had a sort of a hazy, misty quality to it, as if it was from some place far, far away. Nice voice. Also, nice pace - never dragged. The author made honest attempts to have Jenise strong and yet very feminine. Kudos to that.
I have to say the ending was very weak with no real climax, even given their "Incarnation sex." That could have been much better - if there had been any reason to think one of them might actually die. While that was mentioned once, that it could be dangerous for one or both them, there was no hint of that during the actual scene. No danger. No threat. Not even internal - pardon the pun. And there were obvious dodges into the next or previous books (I've not read), too obvious for my blood. Yes, Traed was interesting, but the overt "read the next book" thing irks me.
But sex does play a huge part in this book - without excuses. That said, the sex is caring, loving and romantic without being too graphic. It also had that gentle touch and worked because of the author's interesting set up of Gian's character. I liked that and enjoyed those scenes. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the other worlds - that was interesting. But Jenise's blind stupidity in not realizing she'd end up staying with Gian grew annoying. So she wanted to wander - her motivation to do so, in the face of the obvious danger she'd be in - was not compelling enough. She came off as sounding childishly naive to the point of stupid at times.
I'm looking for more from this author. This book was a great escape.
July 4, 2015
I love this !!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is the fourth romance I read way back when I was a teenager in mid 2004.
This romance is for anyone for loves cats or fantasy novels.
This is quite a long novel and it is worth reading.
I visited this book in Feb and the review is long overdue.
This book broke a fewrules for its time, although it atill followed many of the tropes. This book came out in 1998.
My romance reading friends , do you all remember how the novels were back then?
Of course a virgin and an alpha male are paired in this book. Of course, the hero is really sweet and lovely while being an ass sometimes.
The world building is very interesting and grandoise sometimes.
Ok I will let you in on one fact that might get you interested :
All my romance readers, the hero, Gian, has an expandable penis!
HAppy reading!
This is the fourth romance I read way back when I was a teenager in mid 2004.
This romance is for anyone for loves cats or fantasy novels.
This is quite a long novel and it is worth reading.
I visited this book in Feb and the review is long overdue.
This book broke a fewrules for its time, although it atill followed many of the tropes. This book came out in 1998.
My romance reading friends , do you all remember how the novels were back then?
Of course a virgin and an alpha male are paired in this book. Of course, the hero is really sweet and lovely while being an ass sometimes.
The world building is very interesting and grandoise sometimes.
Ok I will let you in on one fact that might get you interested :
All my romance readers, the hero, Gian, has an expandable penis!
HAppy reading!
July 17, 2011
Whew! Okay. This book is actually listed inside the books, as the 2nd book in the series. I read it out of sequence by mistake, but was still able to follow the story.
I can't believe I never heard of these books before.. This one is a very sensual, erotic, romantic, & suspenseful story. Which has an interesting and refreshing take on shifters and their world. It has a bit of a futuristic/sci-fi tone, but not too much. I really liked this one. And all of the characters were well written. It is a short novel, but there is so much story within, that you will not feel as though something is missing. I highly recommend this read. I am starting book 1 "Knight of a Trillion Stars" and then will be moving on to book 3 "Rejar" His story I am very eager to read.
I can't believe I never heard of these books before.. This one is a very sensual, erotic, romantic, & suspenseful story. Which has an interesting and refreshing take on shifters and their world. It has a bit of a futuristic/sci-fi tone, but not too much. I really liked this one. And all of the characters were well written. It is a short novel, but there is so much story within, that you will not feel as though something is missing. I highly recommend this read. I am starting book 1 "Knight of a Trillion Stars" and then will be moving on to book 3 "Rejar" His story I am very eager to read.
April 19, 2018
It kinda reminded me of Nalini Singh's Psy-Changeling series, because of the cats shapeshifters + their playfulness and sensuality.
Since this book is part of a series, I guess the plot continues from the previous books (Disclaimer: I have not read any books in this series) and it left me a little lost at times. I didn't appreciate the multiple POVs (POVs other than the H & h) as I didn't know and wasn't interested in the other characters.
Also, I felt that it wasn't right of the H to .
Since this book is part of a series, I guess the plot continues from the previous books (Disclaimer: I have not read any books in this series) and it left me a little lost at times. I didn't appreciate the multiple POVs (POVs other than the H & h) as I didn't know and wasn't interested in the other characters.
Also, I felt that it wasn't right of the H to .
October 21, 2015
The third book in the Matrix of Destiny series by Dara Joy. Gian Ren is captured, drugged and chained to a wall. When Jenise is confronted by her stepfather's brother, Karpon, she knows she needs to escape. So she foils Karpon's diabolical plan and helps Gian Ren escape and escapes with him.
Another fun, humorous, and entertaining addition to the series. There were a few unanswered questions regarding other characters at the end but I still liked it.
Another fun, humorous, and entertaining addition to the series. There were a few unanswered questions regarding other characters at the end but I still liked it.
February 27, 2013
Audio-
Familiars are known for their sexual techniques and appetites. Pleasure is their goal to give many times and then to get. When one of them is captured to be used and then sold for slavery, an unlikely match is made. He escapes with the young princess traveling across world and facing many dangers, while trying to teach her enjoyment.
A fun, enjoyable read that is sure to bring pleasure and tingles to the body.
Familiars are known for their sexual techniques and appetites. Pleasure is their goal to give many times and then to get. When one of them is captured to be used and then sold for slavery, an unlikely match is made. He escapes with the young princess traveling across world and facing many dangers, while trying to teach her enjoyment.
A fun, enjoyable read that is sure to bring pleasure and tingles to the body.
April 19, 2017
This book was fun to read! In turns campy and sexy, it definitely makes me want to find the others in the series! Plus, it was one of my Birthday Books! :D
February 11, 2011
not as good as the first two in the series but I still liked it.
December 9, 2017
[My voting might be biased as I have not read the first two book in this series. So my vote is based entirely on how I felt from reading this book. I know that some of my rantings might be answered if I read the first two book (or not??)]
I like the world building with the ideas of portals and different dimensions/planets being connected through portals was interesting and I had enjoyed the visual writing on different worlds. The main character’s POV and sub characters POV were all enjoyable to read.
What I did not like was the vagueness of things like how Gian Ren was held captive and why was Jenise was so obsessed with Frensi Freedom. There was no past recap that might show us why she was intent on being free or what her parents relationship was. Why was she the one in line for the throne yet claiming that the rightful owner was supposed to be Karpon.
The constant switching to other characters POV was tiring and confusing at times. There was a POV from an old lady saving a guy that was about to die that was never mentioned again [In my opinion the story could still go on without this].
The ambiguity of how this story was written were tiring as the problem was never solved. I get that it is some foreshadowing in order to get us interested in the next book but it was just too much for me. I do not understand why they didn’t fight Karapon in this book when Karapon is just a pawn to the bigger picture. It would had been much better if the story focused on Gian Ren and Jenise’s POV and actually take some action and solving to save the people from Kapron. This way the story would have moved much faster.
Jenise was written that she had a kind heart and there were instances that it was shown but for the most part she was pretty much dependent which is understandable as she was a princess but I am not entirely sure if she was smart due to her actions. I really didn’t feel like she was a princess with how she easily discarded her people especially knowing Karpon’s character. I find her selfish and bratty at times.
Gian Ren was sweet and him being King was a surprise. I don’t think he was a jerk with how he tried to save her even though he manipulated her into coming with him. He was very caring and protective of Jenise. Still, I wonder about his duty as a king for the monarchy in the story was vague. I know what was written but he didn’t felt like a king to me. Unless the whole point of being king was just about warfare doing combats in protecting all familiars from threat that he goes freely alone.
Still, the story was still enjoyable for the most part. I would recommend that they read the first two book.[but after reading the synopsis of the first two book I am not entirely sure of the world building anymore]
I like the world building with the ideas of portals and different dimensions/planets being connected through portals was interesting and I had enjoyed the visual writing on different worlds. The main character’s POV and sub characters POV were all enjoyable to read.
What I did not like was the vagueness of things like how Gian Ren was held captive and why was Jenise was so obsessed with Frensi Freedom. There was no past recap that might show us why she was intent on being free or what her parents relationship was. Why was she the one in line for the throne yet claiming that the rightful owner was supposed to be Karpon.
The constant switching to other characters POV was tiring and confusing at times. There was a POV from an old lady saving a guy that was about to die that was never mentioned again [In my opinion the story could still go on without this].
The ambiguity of how this story was written were tiring as the problem was never solved. I get that it is some foreshadowing in order to get us interested in the next book but it was just too much for me. I do not understand why they didn’t fight Karapon in this book when Karapon is just a pawn to the bigger picture. It would had been much better if the story focused on Gian Ren and Jenise’s POV and actually take some action and solving to save the people from Kapron. This way the story would have moved much faster.
Jenise was written that she had a kind heart and there were instances that it was shown but for the most part she was pretty much dependent which is understandable as she was a princess but I am not entirely sure if she was smart due to her actions. I really didn’t feel like she was a princess with how she easily discarded her people especially knowing Karpon’s character. I find her selfish and bratty at times.
Gian Ren was sweet and him being King was a surprise. I don’t think he was a jerk with how he tried to save her even though he manipulated her into coming with him. He was very caring and protective of Jenise. Still, I wonder about his duty as a king for the monarchy in the story was vague. I know what was written but he didn’t felt like a king to me. Unless the whole point of being king was just about warfare doing combats in protecting all familiars from threat that he goes freely alone.
Still, the story was still enjoyable for the most part. I would recommend that they read the first two book.[but after reading the synopsis of the first two book I am not entirely sure of the world building anymore]
March 22, 2019
I am not your usual romance genre fan -- I can't stand the repetitive nature of the story, the focus on woman purity, the thin line between consent and rape, the hate turns to love, etc. But I have really enjoyed Joy's "Ritual of Proof" so I hoped this book would flip may of those romance genre tropes on their head and have another dominant woman.... nope.
The cover and the back text suggested this might be the rare romance I'd like but almost immediately I knew I was in trouble when the focus was on an evil would-be king. The female lead, Jenise, suffers from the ideas of her culture that sex outside of marriage will disqualify her for leadership, something she claims she does not want. Instead of fighting against the evil mechanisms of her uncle (who wants to be her husband yuck) she runs headlong into it thinking she can use a captive to save her future.
The captive is Gian, a Familiar or race of werecat people. More than that, he is someone of great power who should have been protecting his people from others who use a system of tunnels to cross worlds. While I get that a powerful flirty man is a draw for some, the fact that Gian lies repeatedly about respecting Jenise's right to say yes or no about sex really angered me because he is set up as her main love interest and the hero. Seduction still needs to respect someone's right to say no. This story crossed that line for me.
That wasn't my only problem with the book. I didn't realize that it was the third book in series but if the series were truly important, I think that would have been made clear on the cover or back of the book; instead this seems like a book in the universe. Too much time was spent on other characters in terms of pages but also in terms of viewpoint characters. A romance is about a relationship, those in it should be the focus, and the greater scope only pulled me out and actually made my anger at Gian's actions ever greater because I had downtime to reflect on them.
What I had hoped would be an empowered woman story turned out to be a except your fate. Dara Joy goes onto my do not read list after this book and that makes me sad after I so enjoyed "Ritual of Proof."
The cover and the back text suggested this might be the rare romance I'd like but almost immediately I knew I was in trouble when the focus was on an evil would-be king. The female lead, Jenise, suffers from the ideas of her culture that sex outside of marriage will disqualify her for leadership, something she claims she does not want. Instead of fighting against the evil mechanisms of her uncle (who wants to be her husband yuck) she runs headlong into it thinking she can use a captive to save her future.
The captive is Gian, a Familiar or race of werecat people. More than that, he is someone of great power who should have been protecting his people from others who use a system of tunnels to cross worlds. While I get that a powerful flirty man is a draw for some, the fact that Gian lies repeatedly about respecting Jenise's right to say yes or no about sex really angered me because he is set up as her main love interest and the hero. Seduction still needs to respect someone's right to say no. This story crossed that line for me.
That wasn't my only problem with the book. I didn't realize that it was the third book in series but if the series were truly important, I think that would have been made clear on the cover or back of the book; instead this seems like a book in the universe. Too much time was spent on other characters in terms of pages but also in terms of viewpoint characters. A romance is about a relationship, those in it should be the focus, and the greater scope only pulled me out and actually made my anger at Gian's actions ever greater because I had downtime to reflect on them.
What I had hoped would be an empowered woman story turned out to be a except your fate. Dara Joy goes onto my do not read list after this book and that makes me sad after I so enjoyed "Ritual of Proof."
November 9, 2019
This book was weird. First of all we open with the heroin (can't remember he name) she is very spiritual and so she doesn't want to be ruler of this world. So she decides to run off with a familiar. If you don't already know, a familiar is a very very sexy cat person. The run off together. When trying to get out of this land they vayne counter some carnivorous Vines basically these plants like grab you and eat you but fortunately enough they can they sleep all during the day like they're out cold so most people just die because if they try to go through these plants it takes two days and they died during night you know to get through the plants he says he can do it in one day and so she rides piggyback and he runs the distance they barely make it but they make it. At one point along the journey he gets a really bad sunburn and we think he's going to die that was a whole drama. later on he takes her to his planet and tells her that they're basically like married now and she's his mate and she kind of freaked out.. they they discover that she has this special power with which when she dances she can only do this dance one with one person further her one true love when she dances she like releases her feminine spirit so that happens and we don't talk about it for a while. Finally towards the end of the book they start getting along really well and she they have this like ritual with with which they like confirm that they are mates towards the end of the ritual like a big ball of light shows up she's like what the heck is that and he's like it's our son she's like huh and now she's pregnant and then she does her dance for him and he cries . the end.
I'm apologise for the bad Grammer I wrote this with the voice typing and that's why reading it might seem a little weird, sorry.
I'm apologise for the bad Grammer I wrote this with the voice typing and that's why reading it might seem a little weird, sorry.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2019
Gian Ren is all tied up. Literally. He’s been captured by a nefarious power-hungry nobleman who wants to become ruler. The problem is that it’s Jenise’s birthright to reign, and in their culture the only way for her not to become ruler is to lose her virginity. Though the villain intended to give Jenise to Gian Ren to deflower, Jenise decides to let Gian Ren pierce her maidenhood of her volition and run away with the guy. Unfortunately, Gian Ren has his own agenda and he doesn’t intend to simply let Jenise go along her way.
The plot was a little... convoluted. There’s a lot going on and I don’t know if it’s just because this is the third novel in a series. I guess I should’ve read the others? I don’t know. I just feel tired. I took many pauses while sorting through this book even though it was actually on the shorter side, thank the gods.
I did like the characters. Gian Ren is a cat-boy. Meow, meow. He calls Jenise his creamcat. We love that. There are a helluva lotta side characters also. And I don’t remember any of them, haha.
Romance was also nice. Chemistry flowed. There are sex scenes and while some of them are graphic, there’s an element of that old-fashioned poetry to it. These characters have feelings and whatnot. Lots of rituals too. They’re aliens, remember?
I’d recommend if you’ve already read the series, or if you like those ‘let’s go on a journey from point A to point B!� fantasy novels. But I personally wouldn’t keep this on my shelf.
The plot was a little... convoluted. There’s a lot going on and I don’t know if it’s just because this is the third novel in a series. I guess I should’ve read the others? I don’t know. I just feel tired. I took many pauses while sorting through this book even though it was actually on the shorter side, thank the gods.
I did like the characters. Gian Ren is a cat-boy. Meow, meow. He calls Jenise his creamcat. We love that. There are a helluva lotta side characters also. And I don’t remember any of them, haha.
Romance was also nice. Chemistry flowed. There are sex scenes and while some of them are graphic, there’s an element of that old-fashioned poetry to it. These characters have feelings and whatnot. Lots of rituals too. They’re aliens, remember?
I’d recommend if you’ve already read the series, or if you like those ‘let’s go on a journey from point A to point B!� fantasy novels. But I personally wouldn’t keep this on my shelf.
August 11, 2021
Jenise is being threatened by her late stepfather's evil brother, Karpon, who wants to take over ruling the kingdom and needs to marry her to do it. (He also just wants her, despite the fact she hates him) Since only virgin maidens are allowed to ascend the throne (lol) Jenise makes a deal with the hot shapeshifter from the notoriously sensual "Familiar" race her evil uncle has imprisoned- a deflowering for escape. The two of them escape together, and adventure begins.
� Trashy, silly fun! Very mid-90s fantasy, with fun worldbuilding. Typical old school romance gender dynamics, and dubcon tinged sex scenes.
� Enjoyed all the Familiar stuff and Gian Ren acting like a cat.
� Interested in checking out the previous book! Sad the series was never concluded.
� Trashy, silly fun! Very mid-90s fantasy, with fun worldbuilding. Typical old school romance gender dynamics, and dubcon tinged sex scenes.
� Enjoyed all the Familiar stuff and Gian Ren acting like a cat.
� Interested in checking out the previous book! Sad the series was never concluded.
January 30, 2019
This was the first Dara Joy book I spotted at the Lifeline Bookfair because that of that cover. Oh my.
I love how unabashedly bananas these books are. They’re like Star Wars on crack with Jedi that are less sexually frustrated. But they’re just so darn earnest and fun.
Sadly, it looks like this series kind of hit the wall, with some low rated self published follow ups that are light on lead characters from the first three. The next bookfair is a couple of weeks away and I’m hoping there will be more of this author with the original covers. If not, I’m buying off eBay.
I love how unabashedly bananas these books are. They’re like Star Wars on crack with Jedi that are less sexually frustrated. But they’re just so darn earnest and fun.
Sadly, it looks like this series kind of hit the wall, with some low rated self published follow ups that are light on lead characters from the first three. The next bookfair is a couple of weeks away and I’m hoping there will be more of this author with the original covers. If not, I’m buying off eBay.
December 27, 2020
2.5 stars
I just can't think of good attributes to this book.
It was a whole lot of meh piled up together and thrown up on a page.
I don't think I will read more from this series / author since I can't find anything that really sparks up my interest.
The "hero" was pretty scummy and the "heroine" was pretty bad herself.
The insertion of other characters from the series took me away from the main plot and made the story really hard to read.
Would not recommend unless you are a die hard fan (of series or author) or you have nothing else to read.
Cheers!
I just can't think of good attributes to this book.
It was a whole lot of meh piled up together and thrown up on a page.
I don't think I will read more from this series / author since I can't find anything that really sparks up my interest.
The "hero" was pretty scummy and the "heroine" was pretty bad herself.
The insertion of other characters from the series took me away from the main plot and made the story really hard to read.
Would not recommend unless you are a die hard fan (of series or author) or you have nothing else to read.
Cheers!
September 27, 2023
Reread.
This is one of my go-to romances when I want something a little different. I love the action and the bit of adventure and the romance. Can't say that I'm crazy about the whole world, but, I love the dash of fantasy, so, yeah. I've been rereading this book since I got it back in 1999. Some books you remember, some books you keep, and some books you just have to reread. At least, that's the way it is for me.
This is one of my go-to romances when I want something a little different. I love the action and the bit of adventure and the romance. Can't say that I'm crazy about the whole world, but, I love the dash of fantasy, so, yeah. I've been rereading this book since I got it back in 1999. Some books you remember, some books you keep, and some books you just have to reread. At least, that's the way it is for me.
June 9, 2019
The romance was sexy and steamy. Kinda cheesy (might've been the narration with the accents) but in a good way. Plus, sexy shape-shifting cat man!
The rest of the story, with other characters including a Yoda-like mentor to another shape shifter, was just plain cheesy and meh. Again, may have been the narration with the creaky Yoda accent, but I just tuned out on those parts.
The rest of the story, with other characters including a Yoda-like mentor to another shape shifter, was just plain cheesy and meh. Again, may have been the narration with the creaky Yoda accent, but I just tuned out on those parts.
May 31, 2020
I read this in high school and adored it, so I decided to give it a whirl again as an adult. NOPE. This was trash. It wasn't even good trash, like a lot of other romance novels. This was just, bad, all around. If someone wags their finger at someone else one more time I'm lighting this dumpster truck on fire.
November 18, 2021
This has been my favorite series since I read it for the first time when I was a teenager (I’m 36 now). My biggest reserve is that I will never know some of the characters stories� it bothers me in a huge way. I wish Dara Joy had not given up on writing. That said; this is my favorite series to read & reread. Highly recommend.
November 4, 2019
She's Back!
Dara Joy wrote my first most favorite book, then disappeared from the bookshelf of the bookstore. I'm glad to see that I can stock my kindle with her stories about cats and eyes with lightening!
Dara Joy wrote my first most favorite book, then disappeared from the bookshelf of the bookstore. I'm glad to see that I can stock my kindle with her stories about cats and eyes with lightening!
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