Changing Worlds

Aug 30, 2012 Cole Riann rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: armchair-reviews, m-m, m-m-alternate-world, m-m-scifi-space, m-m-series, awesome-covers, m-m-futuristic, favorites, own-in-paperback

Review posted at The Armchair Reader.

I had heard so many wonderful things about the original story that led to this book, and this book itself, that I was almost worried when I actually started reading them that they might not live up to my expectations. The first story, which I reviewed as part of the Wild Passions anthology last week (and is also offered free when you buy this sequel) definitely opened the door to a wonderful story. I loved it, but it intrigued me more than anything, because t...more Review posted at The Armchair Reader.

I had heard so many wonderful things about the original story that led to this book, and this book itself, that I was almost worried when I actually started reading them that they might not live up to my expectations. The first story, which I reviewed as part of the Wild Passions anthology last week (and is also offered free when you buy this sequel) definitely opened the door to a wonderful story. I loved it, but it intrigued me more than anything, because there was so much room for growth alongside a relationship that definitely hadn't been explored to my own satisfaction. Of course, it didn't take long for me to get this sequel and set out to read it. I sped straight through it, barely taking breaks, and I am left with a sense of awe with this world that is so multifaceted and this story that is put together so artfully.

In the prequel story, "Opening Worlds", we meet Jason as a space pilot who is carrying a group of Perels home to their rather isolationist planet after a year sojourn among other cultures. What Jason didn't expect was to fall in love with one of the alien race. Ferran is expected to return with his wild oats firmly sown and settle into married life as a sterile male in a matriarchal society. Their relationship seems doomed to failure from the start, but the possibility for more time together presents itself when Ferran and his mother convince the ruling council of Perels to open a new diplomatic position for Ferran -- as long as Jason agrees to marry him. Jason readily agrees, but we're only left to envision their future ourselves.

The real story comes later, in this sequel novel that starts at the immediate end of the first story. Jason and Ferran are married and move immediately to Perelan, a planet that has hosted only a handful of humans since first contact was made. The union gives Jason privileges other humans haven't known as ambassadors to Perelan society because Jason is now a Perel by marriage and accepted into their society, though many are not happy about it. The population is split between those who are working towards progressive change -- like Ferran's family and their allies -- and those isolationists who are staunchly against the integration of their races. Jason becomes a celebrity, both for good and bad, and finds adapting to an alien life extremely tiring and humbling. The different factions only seem to escalate in their sparring when a rival Perel becomes known and lays down the gauntlet to Jason, spurring those political rivals to violent means that could upset the fragile hard-won peace of their entire race.

I am almost overwhelmed to review this because there's so much I could talk about. This novel seems to have everything and is a huge success for this author. Much of the story is anthropological. The meeting of two very different races is messy in many ways, with Jason just at the center of it all. The pressure he's facing is immense, and though Ferran faces similar pressures, we don't see as many of them. They're separate for much of their time. Ferran is preparing for his future diplomatic role to represent his race among the other worlds, while Jason is forced to show the positive influence his existence could be for the Perelan society. It is a trial run, and Jason continually feels the pressure of making a perfect impression day after day, all while dealing with the very intense culture shock of integrating into an alien society and living on a planet whose very atmosphere tries to tear him apart. It has the internal and external complications placed upon their relationship as well as the political maneuvering required to continue the forward progression of Perelan integration. Jason has to struggle to remain an independent entity among a society where being male decreases his power and in a family that, though is the best of all alternatives, is still subjecting him to political manipulation to further their own alliances. In the middle of all these other things is the intrigue, danger and ultimate violence that brings out the buried warrior in Jason, to fight for himself, Ferran and his new family.

This was all pulled off remarkably well. The pacing is superb and the balance of the relationship, world building, and politics is admirable. The mood of Jason's point of view is nervous and wary from the beginning, and that undercurrent of discomfort and pure alienness and isolation is given in much detail. A particular description stuck with me through the story. Jason remarks, just after his arrival on Perelan, how the eyes of the Perels watched him out of the dark his eyes were unaccustomed to. That describes his situation perfectly for much of the story. He's the focus of attention that makes him uncomfortable, whether in curiosity or hostility, and the pure isolation of having no control on his surroundings is creepy -- like eyes staring at him out of the dark. The tone blankets the story in a tense foreshadowing that made their trials seem hopeless and their accomplishments seem even more hard-won. I was also surprised by the direction the story took on several occasions, which kept me on my toes.

I can't say much more except to urge all of you to read both "Opening Worlds" and Changing Worlds. While I was a previous fan of this author, this book in particular far outshines her prior work. I can only say that I wish Jason and Ferran's adventures went on forever, simply because I wouldn't be able not to read them. I would also like to add that I adore the cover for this novel. It perfectly represents the wonder of the planet and the fantastic setting. Very well done and Absolutely Recommended!(less)

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May 24, 2012 MandyM rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: m-m-romance

3.5 stars. I bought the kindle edition and it included the prequel, Opening Worlds.

I love scifi so I really enjoyed this trip to the lush and exotic world of Perelan. Starship Captain Jason Kim is unable to resist the attentive interest of Ferran who is different from other members of his race. They fall in love and Jason gives up everything to join Ferran on his strange homeland. Their love is tested as they battle xenophobic locals, warring House Matriarchs, and the harsh conditions of Perela...more

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Jul 24, 2012 Chris Quinton rated it 5 of 5 stars

I don't review many books - mainly because as a writer I'm very conscious of the fact that a review is simply one person's take on any given book, and an adverse reaction can make a huge difference to the status of that book and its author on Goodreads. I prefer not to use that power. But in this case I have no reservations.

Recently I read a review from Goodreads that promised me good characters, plot and world-building, and since they are my top criteria - especially in SF novels - I took a cha...more I don't review many books - mainly because as a writer I'm very conscious of the fact that a review is simply one person's take on any given book, and an adverse reaction can make a huge difference to the status of that book and its author on Goodreads. I prefer not to use that power. But in this case I have no reservations.

Recently I read a review from Goodreads that promised me good characters, plot and world-building, and since they are my top criteria - especially in SF novels - I took a chance on this new-to-me author. And I am so glad I did. Cari Z. delivered in spades.

Jason is the captain of a commercial spaceship, part frieghter, part passenger ship. Three Perelans are among his passengers, aliens he is not entirely comfortable having on board, for various reasons. But Ferran, the more reserved of the usually very outgoing Perelans intrigues him. The attraction is mutual, and by the time they reach Perel, Jason and Ferran are lovers, though they know there is no future for them. Perel is a closed world, reluctant to engage with the rest of the universe.

Jason and Ferran part. Jason resigns his commission and returns to his home on Jacksonville. But he hasn't seen the last of Ferran. A year later, the human ambassador to Perel comes to him with a proposition - marry Ferran in the customs of Perel, and help to bring the Perelans closer to the space-going community. He's never forgotten Ferran, nor stopped loving him, so he agrees. The plan has been cooked up by the progressive Matriarch of Ferran's extended family, and Ferran embraces it as wholeheartedly as Jason. But once on Perel, the troubles begin. Not all the ruling families are as forward-thinking as Ferran's. Jason with have to survive political power struggles as well as attempts on his life before he can hope to have anything like a normal life with Ferran.

Jason and Ferran, and all the secondary characters are very well realised and engaging, and the Perelans retain their alienness throughout. Perel itself, its people, politics, customs, flora and fauna, are beautifully drawn yet don't overpower or slow down the main thrust of the plot.

I hope Cari Z. returns to this story with a sequel [or two... *g*]. I'll be looking for her other books now.(less)

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Jul 06, 2012 Top 2 Bottom Reviews Interviews and More rated it 5 of 5 stars

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Cari Z. is a fairly new author for me. I’ve read one other book written by her and I really enjoyed it, so I admit I was looking forward to reading and reviewing Changing Worlds. Science-fiction romance isn’t one of my favorite genres, but I still enjoy them. I have to confess that after reading this book, not only am I sold on the author, but I’ll have reevaluate my hesitation on reading the genre as well.

Jason is a captain of a spaceship that carried pas...more http://top2bottomreviews.wordpress.co...

Cari Z. is a fairly new author for me. I’ve read one other book written by her and I really enjoyed it, so I admit I was looking forward to reading and reviewing Changing Worlds. Science-fiction romance isn’t one of my favorite genres, but I still enjoy them. I have to confess that after reading this book, not only am I sold on the author, but I’ll have reevaluate my hesitation on reading the genre as well.

Jason is a captain of a spaceship that carried passengers around the universe to visit other planets and species. A year ago, Jason and his partner broke up because one of the males/aliens from the planet, Perelan, had slept with his lover. The males from Perelan are known to be a very sexual people, and often like to brag about their conquest in particular with human males. Since this betrayal, Jason has emotionally shut himself off from others, and has been going through the motions of life. When Jason meets the very uniquely beautiful, Ferran and Ferran’s two cousins, he is to take them to some surrounding planets and then back to Perelan. After this vacation all three of them are to be married off to powerful females, and then will live basically in a harem with other Perelan men. Since the males are primarily used for breeding, Ferran is not as valued to his race because he is sterile. But since his mother is a very powerful ruler of Perelan, this still makes him important and he’s still expected to marry.

As soon as Ferran meets Jason he is immediately captivated by him and despite Jason’s reservations about Ferran and his race, he too feels the heavy attraction between them. At first, Jason does what he can to push Ferran and the attraction they feel for each other aside, but as he continues to run into him, he soon gives into it and they form a deep friendship and bond between them. As the weeks go by, the two fall in love with each other, but they know their relationship is doomed. Ferran must return to his duties at home, leaving Jason behind.

Jason is heartbroken and returns to his home planet for some much needed solitude. Several weeks later he is approached by an Ambassador offering him a deal. He can marry Ferran and live with him for at least a year. During this time, he will accompany Ferran with missions for Perelan’s behalf. Stunned and thrilled to have a chance of a life with Ferran, Jason agrees and within a week the two heroes are taken back to Perelan. As soon as they arrive, there is trouble for Jason. There are some Perels who do not like Jason because he is an outsider and has married Ferran. Plus, he isn’t able to see Ferran as much because his lover is going through much education so he will be a good diplomat for his world. As the weeks and months go by, each hero is put through a lot. Jason in particular, has to prove himself time and time again to some Perels, and he’s still not readily accepted. Jason finds himself constantly fighting for his right to stay on Perelan and to remain married to the man he loves.

I really loved this book! I was so enthralled by the storyline; I read the book in one setting. Both Jason and Ferran are well-written and unique characters that I found very appealing. Even the secondary characters in the book, lived and breathed off of the written page. Ms. Z’s descriptive writing swept me away to other worlds, where I could easily visualize the characters surroundings as easily as if I were standing there with them. Most importantly, I loved the emotional connection and bond between Jason and Ferran. Never once did I believe they were not meant to be together, and I loved how they felt like two-halves of one whole.

Jason and Ferran’s characters do a lot of self-evolving throughout the novel. Jason changes from a man who basically just existed, to a man who lived and had a purpose in life. As much I like and admired, Jason, it was Ferran who intrigued me the most throughout the book. He’s got a heart of gold, and his sheer determination to have Jason as his partner in life, and to do what’s right for his home planet made me adore him. Plus, he’s so sexy! Whew! Jason honestly never stood a chance once Ferran set his eyes on him!

I urge anyone who has never read a science fiction romance to give Changing Worlds a try. Between the amazing storytelling ability, Cari Z, has and her loveable, well-written characters, Changing Worlds has definitely earned a place on my keeper shelf. My only gripe about the book was that I hated to see it come to an end. Even though it did leave me with a few unanswered questions, I hope that means I’ll be seeing more of these wonderful characters in the future.

Highly Recommended!

Reviewed By: Gabbi(less)

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Jul 06, 2012 Jenre rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: futuristic, m-m, romance, sci-fi

Changing Worlds is a follow on novel from a short story, Opening Worlds, in the Wild Passions anthology. It was my favourite story in that anthology and I was very pleased when Cari announced that she was continuing the story of Jason and Ferran. Don't worry if you haven't read that first story because Cari and Storm Moon Press have kindly provided it at the start of the book, so you won't miss out. I very much enjoyed re-reading the story before I got onto the sequel.

This book follows on direct...more Changing Worlds is a follow on novel from a short story, Opening Worlds, in the Wild Passions anthology. It was my favourite story in that anthology and I was very pleased when Cari announced that she was continuing the story of Jason and Ferran. Don't worry if you haven't read that first story because Cari and Storm Moon Press have kindly provided it at the start of the book, so you won't miss out. I very much enjoyed re-reading the story before I got onto the sequel.

This book follows on directly from Opening Worlds. Jason has signed the contract which effectively makes him Ferran's husband for at least a year. During that year he will stay on Ferran's home planet of Perel where he will learn of its culture and aid Ferran in his new career as a diplomat. Jason is facing a very different culture from humankind with the main change being that the society on Perel is matriarchal with a strict hierarchy. Added to this is the fact that the atmosphere on Perel is acidic and not entirely suited to the human body. That proves to be the least of Jason's difficulties once he arrives and discovers a society on the brink of dissent.

In many ways there are two main themes running through this book. The first theme is that of Jason's struggles to fit into Perel society. The strict matriarchal system chafes on his nerves because he is a natural leader and also because his military training is useless in a society where any form of fighting is forbidden. Despite this, I felt the author had done a good job in showing the positives in the society and I was pleased that Ferran's mother, Grenn, was shown to be a wise and understanding woman, even if she did annoy Jason from time to time, and vice versa. I also liked how the story was opened up to encompass a range of views about some of the more difficult Perel traditions for Jason. Thus we get the opinions of Neyarr and Parrell, Ferran's cousins on their impending marriage, and of Giselle, a human diplomat who has worked for many years with the Perel as well as Grenn. The book is full of rich detail about Perel, the flora and fauna; the atmosphere; the culture and politics; the difficulties of learning the language. All these details are fed to us through Jason's eyes as he tries to assimilate all the information. The depth of detail about Perel was definitely one of the best parts of this book because it transported me to this created world.

The second theme links with the first and is the development of the relationship between Jason and Ferran. This intertwines with Ferran's growth as a character too. The pair spend a lot of time apart as they learn their new duties and in the case of Jason, have a full day of classes about Perel society and the language. We learn much about Ferran's character during these parts and I liked the way that he develops as the story progresses. Being apart so much causes a strain on them as a couple but I liked how they worked through their problems and how these difficulties gave Jason more of an insight into his husband. The romance element is very strong throughout the book and that provided a nice contrast to the social and political wrangling.

Because we have so much information fed to us through the book, it is quite a steady read. Much of the story is spent in conversation and dialogue between the characters. I liked this because, as I said earlier, I enjoyed learning about the varied setting, but some readers may find it a bit slow going, especially at first. However, these slower patches are interspersed with conflict and some action sequences. In particular there's a very gripping and tense section towards the end of the book which added some much needed momentum as the story wound up. The tone of the book was also varied, with a good mix of serious parts and some more lighthearted moments - which mostly involved Neyarr and Parrell or the human doctor, Dori.

I've been looking forward to reading this book for some time and for me it's been worth the wait. Cari Z has written a complex, character based science fiction romance story which blends the SF effortlessly with the romance. I highly recommend Changing Worlds to those looking for a well written and intricate story, with sympathetic characters and a fantastical (yet also wholly realistic)setting.(less)

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Jun 11, 2012 Bkrdr rated it 5 of 5 stars

This story is more substantial in details concerning storyline, internal character development, fantasy world building than some other Sci-Fi/fantasy stories that I've read. It’s told though Jason’s POV and primarily deals with his struggles in adapting to his new life.

The world building details in describing the Perels: their appearance, their society, their planet, their architecture etc were first rate. I really appreciate authors that are descriptive and creative in putting those details in...more

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Jun 08, 2012 Don Bradshaw rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: family-drama, gay-romance, gay-sci-fi, non-human-romance, offworld-politics

Reviewed on Hearts On Fire... http://heartsonfirereviews.com/

This was a very well done romantic sci-fi story. The planet Perelan has always been an isolationist planet allowing but a few diplomats to live on the planet in a
segregated community. None but Perels have ever been allowed to live in the city
amongst the Perels. Jason Kim is a human who has married his Perel lover Ferran and is allowed to live in the Perel city. This is unprecedented and not widely accepted by many in the matriarcha...more

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May 21, 2012 Gabbi rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: top2bottom-reviews, favorites, sci-fi, series

http://top2bottomreviews.wordpress.co...

Cari Z. is a fairly new author for me. I’ve read one other book written by her and I really enjoyed it, so I admit I was looking forward to reading and reviewing Changing Worlds. Science-fiction romance isn’t one of my favorite genres, but I still enjoy them. I have to confess that after reading this book, not only am I sold on the author, but I’ll have reevaluate my hesitation on reading the genre as well.

Jason is a captain of a spaceship that carried pas...more http://top2bottomreviews.wordpress.co...

Cari Z. is a fairly new author for me. I’ve read one other book written by her and I really enjoyed it, so I admit I was looking forward to reading and reviewing Changing Worlds. Science-fiction romance isn’t one of my favorite genres, but I still enjoy them. I have to confess that after reading this book, not only am I sold on the author, but I’ll have reevaluate my hesitation on reading the genre as well.

Jason is a captain of a spaceship that carried passengers around the universe to visit other planets and species. A year ago, Jason and his partner broke up because one of the males/aliens from the planet, Perelan, had slept with his lover. The males from Perelan are known to be a very sexual people, and often like to brag about their conquest in particular with human males. Since this betrayal, Jason has emotionally shut himself off from others, and has been going through the motions of life. When Jason meets the very uniquely beautiful, Ferran and Ferran’s two cousins, he is to take them to some surrounding planets and then back to Perelan. After this vacation all three of them are to be married off to powerful females, and then will live basically in a harem with other Perelan men. Since the males are primarily used for breeding, Ferran is not as valued to his race because he is sterile. But since his mother is a very powerful ruler of Perelan, this still makes him important and he’s still expected to marry.

As soon as Ferran meets Jason he is immediately captivated by him and despite Jason’s reservations about Ferran and his race, he too feels the heavy attraction between them. At first, Jason does what he can to push Ferran and the attraction they feel for each other aside, but as he continues to run into him, he soon gives into it and they form a deep friendship and bond between them. As the weeks go by, the two fall in love with each other, but they know their relationship is doomed. Ferran must return to his duties at home, leaving Jason behind.

Jason is heartbroken and returns to his home planet for some much needed solitude. Several weeks later he is approached by an Ambassador offering him a deal. He can marry Ferran and live with him for at least a year. During this time, he will accompany Ferran with missions for Perelan’s behalf. Stunned and thrilled to have a chance of a life with Ferran, Jason agrees and within a week the two heroes are taken back to Perelan. As soon as they arrive, there is trouble for Jason. There are some Perels who do not like Jason because he is an outsider and has married Ferran. Plus, he isn’t able to see Ferran as much because his lover is going through much education so he will be a good diplomat for his world. As the weeks and months go by, each hero is put through a lot. Jason in particular, has to prove himself time and time again to some Perels, and he’s still not readily accepted. Jason finds himself constantly fighting for his right to stay on Perelan and to remain married to the man he loves.

I really loved this book! I was so enthralled by the storyline; I read the book in one setting. Both Jason and Ferran are well-written and unique characters that I found very appealing. Even the secondary characters in the book, lived and breathed off of the written page. Ms. Z’s descriptive writing swept me away to other worlds, where I could easily visualize the characters surroundings as easily as if I were standing there with them. Most importantly, I loved the emotional connection and bond between Jason and Ferran. Never once did I believe they were not meant to be together, and I loved how they felt like two-halves of one whole.

Jason and Ferran’s characters do a lot of self-evolving throughout the novel. Jason changes from a man who basically just existed, to a man who lived and had a purpose in life. As much I like and admired, Jason, it was Ferran who intrigued me the most throughout the book. He’s got a heart of gold, and his sheer determination to have Jason as his partner in life, and to do what’s right for his home planet made me adore him. Plus, he’s so sexy! Whew! Jason honestly never stood a chance once Ferran set his eyes on him!

I urge anyone who has never read a science fiction romance to give Changing Worlds a try. Between the amazing storytelling ability, Cari Z, has and her loveable, well-written characters, Changing Worlds has definitely earned a place on my keeper shelf. My only gripe about the book was that I hated to see it come to an end. Even though it did leave me with a few unanswered questions, I hope that means I’ll be seeing more of these wonderful characters in the future.

Highly Recommended!(less)

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Dec 09, 2012 Victoria Zagar rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: m-m, sci-fi, favorites, reviewed-on-infinite-love

In this sequel to Opening Worlds, we continue following Jason Kim as he goes to live on Perelan with his new husband Ferran. Jason will have to face culture shock, homesickness, misunderstandings and political intrigue as he struggles to reconcile the things he believes in and his feelings for Ferran with strange alien traditions and a people divided as to whether they want him there at all.

Changing Worlds builds on the strong relationship of Jason and Ferran while introducing conflicts and exte...more In this sequel to Opening Worlds, we continue following Jason Kim as he goes to live on Perelan with his new husband Ferran. Jason will have to face culture shock, homesickness, misunderstandings and political intrigue as he struggles to reconcile the things he believes in and his feelings for Ferran with strange alien traditions and a people divided as to whether they want him there at all.

Changing Worlds builds on the strong relationship of Jason and Ferran while introducing conflicts and external pressures that test the strength of their bond and even their very lives. Even though Ferran's family is very accepting of Jason, other houses are not and he has to struggle with a language barrier and an isolationist society that is leery of outsiders. Jason and Ferran show their inner strength as they face these trials, proving their love over and over again. I really felt that I was reading about the best of marriages as the two prop each other up and care for each other's safety and well-being. They have misunderstandings too, like any married couple, yet they communicate like adults and settle their problems.

Changing Worlds struck me on a personal level as well. As an ex-pat, I have had to deal with feelings of homesickness and adapting to a different culture. The way Jason's feelings are portrayed in Changing Worlds is one-hundred-percent accurate. I actually felt tears roll down my face as Jason grew frustrated and yearned for the simple trappings of home in one scene. Yet, like my real life, the love he left his home for is worth more to him than anything and his determination to see it through for Ferran means he earns every drop of love that comes his way. The best relationships, real and fictional, are earned through struggle and personal growth, sacrifice and shared experience and I really felt that between Ferran and Jason.

Cari Z has also created an incredibly rich world with Perelan. Everything from the acid humidity of the air to the rituals of the culture are shown to the reader in vivid detail, bringing Perelan and its people to life. Sometimes these details are unflinching and somewhat disconcerting, but that only adds to the richness of the story. The supporting characters are strong as well, the twins as well as Matriarch Grenn and Giselle in particular, though I found Penelope's backstory intriguing as well. The internal politics of Perelan feel real and believable, the kind of schemes and machinations that would happen in a society like this struggling to define itself and the direction it wants to take in a larger universe.

This novel is ripe for a sequel as well. I would love to go back to Perelan or even just visit Jason and Ferran out in the universe someday. I hope Cari Z considers it as I really love the universe she has created here and recommend it to everyone.

Review cross-posted to Infinite Love.(less)

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Jul 19, 2012 Valentina Heart rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: glbt, glbt-sf-futur-fantasy-paran, the-romance-reviews

This review was originally written for The Romance Reviews and can also be found there.

Cari Z. is back with her magnificent alien world and a loving relationship that surpasses cultural differences. Yes, we get to read about Perelan and all its unique traits.

Jason has been allowed to join his husband Ferran on his home world where the matriarchs allowed their union to happen under the promise of strengthening the relations of their race with the humans. Jason is put through exhausting and pretty...more

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Aug 20, 2012 Alex rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy, queer, review-copy, romance, science-fiction

Overall
Having enjoyed the short story that this novel expands on, I was excited to hear that Ferran and Jason's story continued. And, for the benefit of people who hadn't read the first story, it's included in the beginning of the novel. (Two for the price of one!) I had already read it, but I re-read it, despite everything being explained in the novel itself (for those who choose to skip reading or re-reading the short). I was reminded how much I enjoyed the short, and with its happy ending, it...more

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Sep 09, 2012 DarienMoya rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reads, fave-m-m-characters, my-m-m-lovin, otherness, release-2012, favorites, asian-buffet, pants-off-reviews

4.5
When I first read Opening Worlds in the Wild Passions anthology, it was one of my fave stories. I was so sad it was a short because it had such a great plot to be a great book. So when I heard there was a novel in the works, my heart felt super happy. Jason and Ferran had in me few short pages, just imagine the impact they would have with their own book.

Changing Worlds does include the short where Jason and Ferran meet for the first time, so interested readers can just run out and get the bo...more 4.5
When I first read Opening Worlds in the Wild Passions anthology, it was one of my fave stories. I was so sad it was a short because it had such a great plot to be a great book. So when I heard there was a novel in the works, my heart felt super happy. Jason and Ferran had in me few short pages, just imagine the impact they would have with their own book.

Changing Worlds does include the short where Jason and Ferran meet for the first time, so interested readers can just run out and get the book with no worries. Here’s a quick recap for new readers. Jason Kim is Captain of a merchant ship and he isn’t happy learning that he will be taking on Perels as passengers on his ships. He’s not a big fan of Perels because one was a reason his relationship of a year ended suddenly. Their sexual energy envelops all around them and Jason wants no part in it. He’s an all work and a no play kind of guy, but is surprised when he finds himself drawn to Ferran and wants a relationship with him. Their happy ending doesn’t seem meant to be because Ferran will have to return home, and he will just become a thing of the past for him.

That changes when Jason is invited on Perelan, and is to be husband to Ferran. He accepts without doubt because Ferran makes him feel, and though life will forever be, different Jason isn’t willing to give up the Perel he loves. Jason and Ferran have a year to prove that their marriage is strong, and Jason has to prove to the Perels that he’s more than just an alien on their planet.

I loved reading about Perelan, and their matriarchs. These big beautiful females ruling so many around them and have their word striving ‘female power’. It’s really hard to impress mothers so Jason has his work cut out for him, when not everyone accepts his place on Perelan. So not only does he have to come to terms with his new life, but suddenly he’s fearing for his life and those he holds dear.

There is enough action to keep the reader interested, the politics and daily life of living on Perelan will keep you glued to the pages. Jason and Ferran together are lava hot, and set the pages on fire. Their road is not an easy one, but you will love the ride their journey takes you on.

Overall, I loved this book! This story is more than a human falling in love with an alien. It’s a human story, one that says love has no bounds and person is willing to do everything to protect the ones he loves. If you’re fan of science fiction, and love a little human/alien relations then do pick a copy of this book up. Cari Z is super cool and I look forward to reading more.(less)

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May 19, 2012 Ami marked it as dnf

These days, my patience is wearing thin with the M/M romance (or related to M/M) genre. If the story cannot hook me quick, I just let it go.

Unfortunately, as much as I enjoy the short story that becomes the premise of this one, the rest of it is slow-pace as Jason learns the life of a husband of an ambassador. Well, it bores the heck out of me. I can only make it to halfway and give up.

No worries, I'm not rating it. So feel free to make your own decision on this one. Because others will probab...more

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May 18, 2012 Meggie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: sci-fi, romance, fantasy, favorites

This story is easily said amazing in every way. I'm astonished how immensely well written this story truly is. The writing style is realistic and rich with the emotions. I could imagine it all. The story was detailed and cool. Ferran and Jason were great main couple. Their emotion of love and devotion to each other, were an constant background reminder.

2 likes · like · see review

Oct 06, 2012 Tamarrion Lash rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: m-m-romance

Прекрасная фантастическая книга. Шикарные персонажи (впрочем, у автора они всегда шикарны), хороший, очень так правильно чужой мир, и мне очень понравилось развитие сюжета - что не гл.герой все превозмог и всех спас, а его супруг вырос над собой, всех застроил и прислал кавалерию на спасение.

1 like · like · see review

May 18, 2012 Kristy Maitz rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 5-star-books

Very very cool progress and with ending like you could always read new adventures. I hope Cari Z will work on it more. I had really great time while reading it.

2 likes · like · see review

Jun 22, 2012 Hearts On Fire Reviews added it

Reviewed by: Don
Publisher: Storm Moon Press
Genre: M/M Sci-fi
Rated: 4 Heart

Check out the review at: http://heartsonfirereviews.com

1 like · like · see review

Oct 08, 2012 Luka Lu rated it 5 of 5 stars

This was (for me) the best SF/MM book I ever read. I liked how real the author managed to make the characters. It deserves all 5 stars.

1 like · like · see review

Jun 29, 2012 Sona rated it 4 of 5 stars

Awesome sequel!!!!

1 like · like · see review

Aug 25, 2012 Sagajo rated it 5 of 5 stars

Impressed!

1 like · like · see review

May 19, 2012 Kiki rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: sf

4.5

1 like · like · see review

May 23, 2013 Lynette rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: m-m-romance

May 20, 2013 Rachel marked it as to-read

May 15, 2013 Reymart Dinglasa marked it as to-read

May 15, 2013 Susan marked it as to-read

Shelves: mm-want, p-storm-moon

May 10, 2013 Enigma Monkey marked it as to-read

May 14, 2013 Ashlee marked it as to-read · review of another edition

May 07, 2013 Megan marked it as to-read

May 05, 2013 Notinfrontoftheklingons marked it as to-read

Apr 20, 2013 Hellspark72 marked it as to-read

title link	preview: Changing Worlds
avg rating	preview: Changing Worlds Goodreads rating: 4.24 (63 ratings)
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BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13569286-changing-worlds?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1333146812l/13569286.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13569286-changing-worlds?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Changing Worlds by Cari Z.[/url]

Changing Worlds (Worlds #2)

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