***Update***FYI - Book 1 (S1E1) is available FREE in Amazon ;)
FLASH REVIEW
After a too-long hiatus, Brandon Shire is back with the goods. Trust me whe
***Update***FYI - Book 1 (S1E1) is available FREE in Amazon ;)
FLASH REVIEW
After a too-long hiatus, Brandon Shire is back with the goods. Trust me when I say the wait was worth it. His Wicked Men do not disappoint.
I promised a review, but I have to admit it would be completely biased as I beta'd this and have already been determined to be Brandon Shire's sycophant (that's a nice word for boot-licker, kiss-ass, minion, slave, bitch - I looked it up ;) ).
So, forgive me for the non-review, but I'll just say if you've read season one and thought it was worthy of being right up there with the NYT big boys, like I did, then get ready to hold on to your socks. This season is even more, even deeper, even sexier, even grittier and definitely more INTENSE. How is that even possible?
And I love Sid even though he is completely unlovable. Or is he?
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog: ...more
If you're like me and think [image]dialog is what's missing from most porn then this is exactly what you're looking for~~~
Yesssss, talk dirty to me!!!
If you're like me and think [image]dialog is what's missing from most porn then this is exactly what you're looking for.
Whewwwweeeeeee, this was fun and hot and just, oh so dirty!
I can't get enough dirty talk. In fact I'd say it's often what's missing from many of my juicy reads. But, it's got to be more than just words, right? I mean you've got to be able to see it and ::feel:: it. Touching, kissing, and the sounds... Yeah, eh hem. So, if you're up for a bit of hot, Daddy, m/m "Action!", then I can highly recommend this.
~~~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
~~~
I would like to thank Brandon Shire for providing me with an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This new series of shorts by Brandon Shire promises to be pure reading PLeAsuRe, so long as you understand the premise. These are straight u~~~ [image]
This new series of shorts by Brandon Shire promises to be pure reading PLeAsuRe, so long as you understand the premise. These are straight up erotica. No holds barred, Porn on the Page. And as someone who has said I'd rather read it than watch it, this suits me perfectly.
The blurb tells you everything about the gist of the story, but really it's all about the bang for the buck. And there's a hell of a lot of BANG here.
For me, when it comes to porn on the page, and PWP, it's got to be about the senses. Can you see it, feel it, taste it and smell it? And the descriptives here are spot and steamy.
This is easily a read-over-and-over-again, one-handed gem. And I can't wait to see what Shire has up his sleeve for the next one.
Enjoy!
~~~ I would like to thank the author for providing a advance copy in exchange for my honest review. ~~~
This is the final book in season one and I freakin' love Sid and Jack, two very fucked up men. And don't even get me started on Drake and Sweeny. S~~~
This is the final book in season one and I freakin' love Sid and Jack, two very fucked up men. And don't even get me started on Drake and Sweeny. Season 2? Yes please, with a LARGE helping of Shane.
Full disclosure: I was a lucky beta reader and must admit I'm a little bit involved here. Although I've written short comments on each episode of~ ~ ~
Full disclosure: I was a lucky beta reader and must admit I'm a little bit involved here. Although I've written short comments on each episode of season one (see my ŷ reviews) I hadn't written a full review. After reading this backwards and forwards many times would you believe that all I really want to do here is fangirl?
REVIEW
A complex, involved beginning turns out to be only the tip of the iceberg. The further we delve into this story the more vast and interconnected it becomes. You never get to step off, take a break or breathe.
THE CHARACTERS
Sid Rivers - Bastard Extraordinaire! Jack Brown - Sexy criminal looser. Or something else entirely? Drake - Big, silent, broody, badass. Trust me, you don't want to piss off Drake. Sweeny - Tech geek genius and sex kitten. Jeffery Marn - He's the one pulling all the strings. Right? Larry - Sid's legal partner - or is he? Shane -???
THE STORY
Sid went to the window and pushed the curtain aside, looking out on the street, wondering if he'd already gotten in over his head. They hadn't chosen Rivers & Dunn because Sid Rivers was a rising legal phenomenon. They wanted Sid's firm because they needed someone who was in no way associated with the oil industry, or with Jeffery Phillips Marn. They also wanted someone who was just as disposable.
On the surface this is a roller coaster ride through an unscrupulous world of law and crime, justice and vengeance. But, oh so surprisingly, upon finishing, I think you'll find that this entire season was a mind game played by the author to see if he could make you, the reader, his bitch! So maybe that makes Brandon Shire the wicked man. Let's say it's something of an experiment to see if you can justify loving wicked men.
These guys are bad, evil, corrupt, mean, bastards that more than one reader has walked away from. These aren't good guys making nice, uh uh. So, the mission, if you choose to accept it, is to see if you can get to the end without loving these guys just a little bit.
If you can't set your moral compass in the margin for a moment maybe this one's not for you. But if you're intrigued to find out why other readers have fallen madly in love with these nefarious, debauched men then grab this and see if you can keep your own morality in check, or if you too become Shire's little pawn.
THE WRITING
It's the writing that sets this apart. Shire is a story builder. He shovels around intrigue, layers on some gritty dilemmas, and places each brick so solidly that you don't even see where you've taken your misstep. Be wary of that whiplash effect, because there is going to be more than one incident of, "I didn't see that coming!"
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank Brandon Shire for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
Merged review:
~ ~ ~
Full disclosure: I was a lucky beta reader and must admit I'm a little bit involved here. Although I've written short comments on each episode of season one (see my ŷ reviews) I hadn't written a full review. After reading this backwards and forwards many times would you believe that all I really want to do here is fangirl?
REVIEW
A complex, involved beginning turns out to be only the tip of the iceberg. The further we delve into this story the more vast and interconnected it becomes. You never get to step off, take a break or breathe.
THE CHARACTERS
Sid Rivers - Bastard Extraordinaire! Jack Brown - Sexy criminal looser. Or something else entirely? Drake - Big, silent, broody, badass. Trust me, you don't want to piss off Drake. Sweeny - Tech geek genius and sex kitten. Jeffery Marn - He's the one pulling all the strings. Right? Larry - Sid's legal partner - or is he? Shane -???
THE STORY
Sid went to the window and pushed the curtain aside, looking out on the street, wondering if he'd already gotten in over his head. They hadn't chosen Rivers & Dunn because Sid Rivers was a rising legal phenomenon. They wanted Sid's firm because they needed someone who was in no way associated with the oil industry, or with Jeffery Phillips Marn. They also wanted someone who was just as disposable.
On the surface this is a roller coaster ride through an unscrupulous world of law and crime, justice and vengeance. But, oh so surprisingly, upon finishing, I think you'll find that this entire season was a mind game played by the author to see if he could make you, the reader, his bitch! So maybe that makes Brandon Shire the wicked man. Let's say it's something of an experiment to see if you can justify loving wicked men.
These guys are bad, evil, corrupt, mean, bastards that more than one reader has walked away from. These aren't good guys making nice, uh uh. So, the mission, if you choose to accept it, is to see if you can get to the end without loving these guys just a little bit.
If you can't set your moral compass in the margin for a moment maybe this one's not for you. But if you're intrigued to find out why other readers have fallen madly in love with these nefarious, debauched men then grab this and see if you can keep your own morality in check, or if you too become Shire's little pawn.
THE WRITING
It's the writing that sets this apart. Shire is a story builder. He shovels around intrigue, layers on some gritty dilemmas, and places each brick so solidly that you don't even see where you've taken your misstep. Be wary of that whiplash effect, because there is going to be more than one incident of, "I didn't see that coming!"
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank Brandon Shire for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog: ...more
~ ~ ~ [image] Yep, as a beta for this series, I'm completely biased here, but damn, damn, damn. This is the good stuff.
This episode is all about the ac~ ~ ~ [image] Yep, as a beta for this series, I'm completely biased here, but damn, damn, damn. This is the good stuff.
This episode is all about the action! There's tons of development here, questions answered, betrayals revealed, surprises galore. But the intensity of the action scenes are what totally put me over the top.
I love this series!
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
Image by -
Merged review:
~ ~ ~ Update: All episodes are now $1.99 each
[image] Yep, as a beta for this series, I'm completely biased here, but damn, damn, damn. This is the good stuff.
This episode is all about the action! There's tons of development here, questions answered, betrayals revealed, surprises galore. But the intensity of the action scenes is what totally put me over the top.
I love this series!
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
Image by -
Merged review:
~ ~ ~ [image] Yep, as a beta for this series, I'm completely biased here, but damn, damn, damn. This is the good stuff.
This episode is all about the action! There's tons of development here, questions answered, betrayals revealed, surprises galore. But the intensity of the action scenes are what totally put me over the top.
Good things come to those who wait! In this case, very good things.
First, Ep 1 of this series is now permanently FREE everywhere! ~~~ [image]
Good things come to those who wait! In this case, very good things.
First, Ep 1 of this series is now permanently FREE everywhere!
Then...
Tense legal manipulations, dojo badassery and a freaking intense sexual dominance encounter that lives up to the name: Wicked Men, make this the episode we've all been waiting for. There are great surprises in store too, especially for Brandon Shire devotees.
Plus, one of my favorite opening lines ever...
"You're telling me I'm being attacked by a bunch of goddammed Queers?"
~~~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog: ...more
In typical Brandon Shire style he takes this serial to the next level. This is so much more than a quickie, fluffy read. It's deep, intens~ ~ ~
[image]
In typical Brandon Shire style he takes this serial to the next level. This is so much more than a quickie, fluffy read. It's deep, intense, and sexy. The legal drama alone is enough to keep you glued to the story. Then the individual men, their sexual prowess, and the way the story revolves around a central dark secret add intrigue and edgy dynamics.
A hard, hot horny betrayal...
It goes without saying that the writing is supurb, but I'll say it: it is. If this is how Shire goes about putting together a legal thriller, I'd be happy to read much more from him in this vein. Then again, I'm a Shire-junkie, so...
~ ~ ~ I sincerely thank Brandon Shire for providing an advance copy in exchange for my honest review. ~ ~ ~
Not much of a review here, but just enough to tell you to GET YOUR HANDS ON THIS! Okay,~ ~ ~
Flash Review
In this episode Sid really gets his wicked on!
Not much of a review here, but just enough to tell you to GET YOUR HANDS ON THIS! Okay, so maybe we're only in episode two, but if you were only able to read the last two scenes in this book you'd have a thrill worthy of any purchase.
Add to that a developing spy intrigue/complex legal/steamy plot line and the writing prowess of Brandon Shire and, well, damn it's good. This is a page turner with a lascivious scene towards the end that's worthy of a couple of revisits...or more.
And be sure to join us in the Brandon Shire Fan Group on ŷ. The discussion and input have been amazing. So much fun.
Enjoy!
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog: ...more
In typical Brandon Shire form the writing is superb. In typ~ ~ ~
***Episode 1 is now a freebie everywhere !!!!!
Hot! Corrupt! Cunning! Smart!
In typical Brandon Shire form the writing is superb. In typical Brandon Shire form the dudes are very steamy. Not so typical is the gritty edge this story has. These guys are bad, maybe even deplorable, but that's what this is all about—loving to hate the wickedness.
Before I had even settled in, my head was whipped around with an out-of-nowhere plot twist. I did not see that coming and I think it's just a precursor of what to expect.
THE CHARACTERS
Sid - If you don't despise him right off I'd be surprised. Still...
Jack - He's still something of a mystery, but there's no doubt he's savvy and sexy.
THE STORY
This serialized erotic fiction focuses on Sid's law practice and his questionable methods. He also scratches a few itches that will probably make your skin crawl. For me though, I couldn't look away.
THE WRITING
As I said earlier, the writing is spot on. Shire's no fluff delivery is perfect for the nature of this story and I can almost guarantee a gasp, a grrrr and a unnnnhh or two.
Remember though, this is about corruption, bad boys and every man for himself. If you're looking for fluff, sweetness or tenderness look elsewhere.
As both a beta reader for this book and a moderator for Mr. Shire's ŷ Fan Group I have become intimate with Sid and Jack—although there is still much to learn about Jack.
On the ŷ group we're hoping for your input for this story while each episode is being developed. Join in the fun here: Brandon Shire ŷ Group
This serialized fiction is free for Kindle Unlimited users.
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank Brandon Shire for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
The way Brandon Shire lays words on the page just works for me. With Summer Symphony he has captured me once again. I am an unabashed Brandon Shire devotee and a fortunate beta reader of this book. You have no idea how hard it's been to not spill everything about this powerful read, but it's something you'll need to immerse yourself in to appreciate this literary gem.
He was afraid of that place now, mostly because he didn't believe in it anymore. It was the musical fairytale his life had never become.
THE CHARACTERS
Martin Zoric - What a beautiful soul. This man, the maestro, is talented, kind and so destroyed.
Ren Wakahisa - A modern young man trapped by tradition. He escapes his bonds momentarily, only to land in another's struggles.
Mirnela Zoric - Fascinating. Strong, smart and very perceptive. A very impressive character. This is not m/f/m by the way.
The Symphony - It's nearly a character in its own right, with its demands and rewards. Its politics and its emotion.
THE STORY
I never thought I'd read a book that dealt with the subject of stillbirth. I'm not that strong. If it wasn't for the pull that Mr. Shire's writing has for me, I wouldn't have attempted this. How wrong I would have been.
Yes, the basis for the story is a devastating stillbirth, but with its focus on Martin rather than Mirnela I felt that I wanted to see where Mr. Shire would take this story. Martin's grief has disabled him, and from the depth of his despair we learn that men can be ruined emotionally by this tragedy that is typically viewed as a woman's burden.
Again, while that is the basis, those details are in the past; it's the present and future that Martin and Ren must figure out how to navigate. These two men come together from opposite ends of the earth, but find they each have something to offer the other.
Ren is trying to escape his own burden. I had to wonder how "real" his conflict was in modern society, and I was surprised to find that it is not uncommon in Japanese culture. Even today. He is in a very difficult position, and I was quite apprehensive about his outcome.
I don't often find myself writing about the women in my MM reads, but Mirnela deserves a whole review all on her own. Brandon has created an amazing character here, and I can't wait to get to discuss her with others. I bet she'll be controversial.
I also want to discuss what the author was able to accomplish in the symphony scenes. Without being ostentatious, the musicality of his writing gave passion and power and drove these scenes to a degree that had me feeling and experiencing the music on the page. I was in the concert hall seeing the sweat on the brow of the conductor, surrounded by the intense love of music that permeated the entire read. Breathtaking.
THE WRITING
When Brandon told me what this book would be about, I don't think I reacted very well. It was something like, "you're going to write about what now?" I mean, come on, we'd come off two hunky, steamy novels, and it threw me for a moment. I shouldn't have had a doubt. I'm learning that when he tackles the tough stuff, he's at his best.
One of the most difficult books I've ever read, emotionally, was Brandon's Listening To Dust. This latest book doesn't have that soul-shattering effect, but the masterful writing style and fully absorbing content were impressive and memorable. That's not to say that this didn't leave me sobbing. It did, but it was quite a different sensory experience.
[image]
~ ~ ~
I would like to sincerely thank Brandon Shire for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog: ...more
I had the privilege of beta-reading this several weeks ago and have been anxiously waiting to get to talk about it. ~~~
Sweet, raw, tender and hopeful.
I had the privilege of beta-reading this several weeks ago and have been anxiously waiting to get to talk about it. I felt that Brandon Shire hit the perfect balance between tough reality and tender romance. He kept the tone light and easy while addressing some pretty raw truths about gay youth, life on the streets and even mental illness and how it is, or isn't, handled in America.
While it's true that most of the M/M Romance Group readers won't be turned off by a "street message", I think what has unfolded here has the potential to reach a wider audience. Nicely done.
THE CHARACTERS
Jonathan - Adorable, inquisitive and shy. His innocence isn't going to serve him well in his new life on the streets.
Erik - Street smart and life-hardened he steps in just in time to "save" Jonathan. You'll have to read to decide if his motivations are selfish or honorable. He's cynical and jaded, but seems to need to care for a "pure" Jonathan.
THE WRITING
As I said, Brandon hits a perfect tone for the prompt and for his readership as well. This is a sweet, young love story with gritty, I-want-to-look-away elements. There isn't anything here that will scare or jolt you, but you will be left feeling...feelings.
I don't think I have anything critical to mention. The story just works. I like that Jonathan was a bit hesitant to trust Erik. I suppose some may think he does trust Erik too easily though. The mention of mental illness and it's relationship to homelessness is an additional consideration here. In fact, there is a lot going on in this short story. Which just leads to me wanting to know much more of Jonathan and Erik's story.
Thank you to Brandon Shire for letting me get an early glimpse of this story and thank you to the M/M Romance Group and Love Has No Boundaries for running a wonderful contest
Brandon Shire donates 10% of the proceeds from the sale of any of his books to: Lost-n-Found Youth,Inc
and G
~ ~ ~
Brandon Shire donates 10% of the proceeds from the sale of any of his books to: Lost-n-Found Youth,Inc
and GLBT Advocacy & Youth Services,Inc.
~ ~ ~
About the only thing of beauty he had seen within these walls in a long, long time was Anderson, and like most others in his life, Anderson had looked at Lem like he was someone to fear.
When Brandon Shire said he wanted to write a character based prison story he was serious. I couldn’t believe how caught up I got in Lem and Anderson. The prison is there, no doubt, and, at least for Lem it’s not going anywhere. But the focus is on the internal dialog these two men have. The emphasis on who they are, their fears, their passions, their regrets and that’s what makes this book work.
If you’ve ever read Brandon Shire you know he connects you to the characters. This book proves his mastery of this skill.
THE CHARACTERS
All these new faces he would forget when he hit the door in eight months, every single one of them. He was sure of it. Eight months. It was the only thing that ran through his brain. Eight months.
Anderson Passero - Although we only get to see Anderson in the last eight months of his incarceration you are able to see how he changes. Always wary of others because of his smaller size, he’s been living a nightmare where he trusts no one, keeps to himself and analyzes everything.
“You’ve spent almost twenty years behind bars, don’t you think it’s time you forgave yourself?�
Lem Porter - I don’t think I have ever wanted to reach out to a character more than I do with Lem. Days, weeks later I’m still thinking about him. A beautiful, unique human who lets his guilt rule him. How Mr. Shire created a murderer that I would trust with my children I don’t know.
He’s a smart, tender, gentle man who is one with the natural world. Locked within cement walls, he has given up on beauty. Lem’s nature will speak to you and reach you in ways only very memorable characters do. He truly touched me.
THE STORY
You need to know this isn’t about prison brutality or guard dominance, this is a beautiful love story in a prison setting. While there is a brutal act, it isn’t the focus. While there is heart-ache that had me crying for a full chapter, you shouldn’t be afraid to read this because of the setting.
I’ve said it before, I have a true fear of prison. This book made me want to stay inside.
THE WRITING
Brandon Shire uses this technique which counts down the time until Anderson is released. It is extremely effective in causing a certain tension. It plays with your head because you want Anderson out, but there’s not enough time, he's short. I know that doesn’t make sense, but that’s why its brilliant.
Shire’s writing feels perfectly paced. I didn’t find any lag. He weaves in enough questions to have us demanding another book, while completing everything he set out to accomplish. I think this author has found his stride here. There’s less poetry than in his previous books, but more solid story-telling. He drove this with perfect pacing, stellar characters and gripping emotions.
”It’s the god of vegetation and plant life, the Green Man. He symbolizes life and rebirth after the long hard winter and predates many religions,� Lem offered. …] “So why do you have him on your back?� Anderson pressed him. Lem held him for a moment before he answered. “Because when I looked out at a forest from the top of a ridge, I saw the cycle and beauty of life. It was something I used to believe in.� “And you don’t now?� …] “It’s a cycle I’m not a part of anymore,� Lem finally replied. …] What about us, right here and now?� Anderson asked, …] Lem cupped the side of his head and ran his fingers through his hair. “A false spring,� Lem answered, a sincere sadness in his eyes.
~ ~ ~
I sincerely thank Brandon Shire for allowing me to beta-read this book and providing me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
”Two men,� Hunter said, “pulling each other in to the center of a circle.�
The abrupt ending of Afflicted (I) left me breathless; I needed more, i-
”Two men,� Hunter said, “pulling each other in to the center of a circle.�
The abrupt ending of Afflicted (I) left me breathless; I needed more, immediately. Luckily, the wait was worth it. This contemporary romance stands out primarily due to the unique character that is Hunter Stephens. However, it’s the sex, and the sex, and the hot, hot, hot sex that cements this story. The non-visual descriptions allow the reader a special experience that is like nothing else. Through Hunter and Dillon’s sexual explorations they learn everything about one another. They see what is beautiful and what is broken. From outside influences and internal struggles there is much to overcome before they can make a solid commitment.
I suggest really trying to read this book while considering how you would describe things if you couldn’t see. Had never seen. Your words would undoubtedly be different. I found that Hunter’s descriptions of physical attributes, whether Dillon’s or nature's, were often connected to emotions. The descriptions of emotions that Dillon’s body felt like to Hunter is fascinating and makes for a rare reading experience. It is Masculine and Raw and very Real.
THE STORY Sort of...
>Sex in the cabin was about confessions and demons. >Sex against the wall, well that was just about lust and power. >Sex in the kitchen was about discovering something new. And spicy! >Sex, public sex, was about so many things, but mostly about Brandon giving us a gift. Holy hell, what a gift. Thank you Mr. Shire!!!!
Honestly there is a lot more to the story than sex, and it's all poignant, pertinent and captivating.
THE WRITING
It’s not space I want…� Hunter said as he reached up and captured the side of Dillon’s face in his palm.He ran his thumb across Dillon’s chin, feeling the small stubble. “…It’s breadth,�
Mr. Shire’s writing in Afflicted II is straight-forward without as much lyrical prose found in Afflicted. I found his composition tight and the story arc was perfection . There is a new-found ease that works well for this story.
THE CHARACTERS
Hunter Stephens- Arrogant, defensive, fiercely independent and gorgeous. He’s blind, but that’s everyone else’s problem. He might even throw a tantrum or two to prove it. Oh, my little ninja.
Because I’m impulsive, and immature, and…in love with you..
Dillon Chambers- A broken survivor; Dillon will steal your heart. Sweet, tender, gentle. OH WAIT, he can also dominate the hell out of Hunter. Really. Others- Every secondary character is well-developed and intriguing on their own: Travis � Worth fixing? I don’t know. Lydia � Let’s get her a real man. Margie � We could all use a Margie in our lives. Let’s get her laid. Connie � There isn’t enough Connie in this story, but she’s perfect. Roland � Hmm, a fighter, a savior, a pimp. Hmm.
~~~~~~~
His cries became a weight; a mass that was more than either of them could tolerate.
His touch was like liquid sugar; sweet, and hot, and running so slowly over Hunter’s skin that it felt like he was on fire everytime Dillon caressed him with his lips.
~~~~~~~ Recommended
**My sincerest thanks to Brandon Shire for providing me with an eARC of this wonderful story in exchange for an honest review.
This isn't my typical style of review because I just can't. I can't really read my kindle highli~~~
There aren't enough stars for a book like this.
This isn't my typical style of review because I just can't. I can't really read my kindle highlights to share those thoughts. My eyes are too full. I'll explain below why I've just had to take a different approach here.
70%, 70% is where I cracked. Broken. Crushed and flayed wide open. Until the end and well beyond.
I could easily let go and curse out Brandon Shire. I could easily hate an author that can cause me so much pain. I suppose I'm a masochist though, and actually love that he can reach me like that.
When endless media incursion causes me to tune out and block out the noise, to become numb and uncaring, it's good to find that I can still be moved. To find that my humanity and passion are still alive. Brandon Shire has a way of awakening every sense, with imagery and emotion, vivid and tangible. In this book, you will be there, with the characters, smelling, feeling, wanting. Wanting so badly.
I'm not writing any sort of synopsis because I believe this book should be discovered entirely for yourself. I can't imagine two people finding the same things here. So I can't tell you what it's about, for you. To be sure, there are overarching themes, but the subtle layers of understanding will develop differently for everyone. This is a simple story with incredibly complex problems. Problems that are so big it's easier to look away. But don't look away. Read this book. Tell friends about it. Until our humanity is flawless read this book and books that keep reaching us.
I have to say one last thing. It will only mean something to a few GR friends but it matters. Plus, I need to release a little pent up frustration and between this read and some comments made in an unrelated GR thread, I have to let it go. *I only read male/male romance for the sex. (That is hostile sarcasm, by the way, and should not be construed as truth, by anyone).
Afflicted by love’s madness all are blind. � Sextus Propertius
--I’m a lousy human. I didn’t want to read about a blind guy and a gay prostitute
~~~
Afflicted by love’s madness all are blind. � Sextus Propertius
--I’m a lousy human. I didn’t want to read about a blind guy and a gay prostitute, but when Brandon Shire approached me and asked me to review his new book I was flattered. As a new blogger I thought, wow, someone discovered me. So, I looked into some of his other books (I glanced at his ratings on GR) and decided, “Okay, I can give this a shot.�. Since this was my first read and review of a Brandon Shire book I honestly went into it expecting very little. I didn't really care for the cover and also, no one had recommended him to me before, so what could I be missing, really?
THE WRITING
The question hung like flypaper swirling in the air, all the dead carcasses a tribute to that particular twist in life called consequences, which in this case remained unspoken.
I was blown away immediately. The writing style had a heavily descriptive tone and I was instantly walking alongside the characters, feeling the setting. There were moments where I really had to dig for understanding, because I was both; learning the author’s elocution, and because he made me reach to grasp a weighty concept.
I was just beginning to realize that this somewhat demanding writing style would require more concentration and effort than I usually give a “typical� romantic read, when the dialog began. I was delighted to find an easily readable, relatable tone that wasn’t pretentious. The characters were as comfortable to listen to as the descriptive narrative was beautiful. A very enjoyable combination.
THE CHARACTERS
Maybe he had been using the stink of independence to cover up his loneliness.
Hunter Stephens � Strong, sexy and fiercely masculine, Hunter is not what I expected in a blind main character. Independent despite his blindness, or more accurately, because of it. He is confident, coherent and extremely cognitive. Yet, he is wary. He doesn’t want empathy. He wants to be treated as a man. He wants to be “taken� as a man.
…and wondered what it would be like to wake up next to someone like him and not feel like an accessory, not feel…disposable.
Dillion � He is beautiful, surprising and secretive. Overcoming the worst in human nature, he remains hopeful and wanting. Despite his successes he finds himself in an endless loop. He wants to leave the circumference and grab at something in the middle.
THE STORY
Look at my gay blind friend, aren’t I so socially forward?
A man who has always been treated as delicate, fragile and vulnerable needs to know he’s just a man. Another man gives him his strength; unabashedly powerful sex is an intro to a deeper connection.
As I said earlier, I wasn't really into the premise, but I couldn't have been more wrong. This isn't at all about a weak, afflicted blind guy. It's about two strong men, two fighters trying to find out if they can let go. Two men taking a difficult step forward to learn whether or not they can be what each other needs.
I was simultaneously thrown into the subcultures of gay prostitution and blindness. Somehow, Shire found a way to beautify and romance me, despite myself. I was overwhelmed with butterflies. I cried. I laughed and I learned, about me.
THE SEX
…he wrapped himself around Hunter like a soft vice of hard passion.
Raw, descriptive, erotic as hell. The sex struck me as "a man's POV", which was fine with me. It was all the more gritty and in-your-face (often literally). Some of the terminology did make me a bit uncomfortable but it fits the story. Maybe I just need to get out more.
What would his feet be like trapped in boots all day? Hunter wondered. Not rank, no; a slight vinegar smell, like chips, only with a more sensual under-tongue taste.
~~~
Possibly the most surprising aspect of the book, for me, was how even at the very end, the last two pages, I was experiencing a racing heartbeat and tummy flips. That NEVER happens for me. I was ready to scream at the lack of conclusion but now realize the story continues. The story stops in a good place but, I, for one, can not wait to read more about Hunter and Dillion and more, much more, from Brandon Shire.
~~~
My thanks to Brandon Shire for providing me with a copy of his book in exchange for an honest review.
Lisa Arbitrary - AttentionIsArbitrary M/M Blog
>
Books:
brandon-shire
(18)
Loading...
