In the Flesh by Livia Dare
Futuristic Romance- June 2nd, 2009
4 stars

Theirs is a dangerous, forbidden love.

Sapphire is a trained concubine renowned because she holds the love of the King of Sari. For her, the King is a job and she can never love him because he only sees her as a possession. She does not regret becoming a concubine but has discovered that she does miss her independence. When the jealous Queen of Sari retires her and gives Sapphire her own palace, she is at first joyous. Freedom to live and be her own person is a pleasure she will never take for granted again. However, Sapphire does not realize that the Queen actually intends to punish her by bestowing upon Sapphire a male concubine that will endanger her life and that of her family.

Wulfric is the Crown Prince and mortal enemy of the King of Sari. When he is captured, tortured and finally given to serve the renowned concubine Sapphire he is outraged. All he can think of his is his hatred and a way to escape. Wulfric’s plan is to seduce Sapphire, use her, and ruthlessly gain his freedom. But Sapphire is more than he expects and he finds himself respecting her and wanting things he knows he should not. He has never before met a woman with the strength of character to match his own. He finds Sapphire an aphrodisiac he can’t live without. Wulfric’s finds himself making excuses to stay despite the peril.

For Sapphire, Wulfric is completely different from the King of Sari. He values her opinion and treats her as an individual plus it doesn’t hurt that his sensual skills rival her own! A heady combination indeed.

As Sapphire and Wulf find themselves unwillingly attracted to each other, both know their love is forbidden. But they cannot bear to be parted. Both are caught in an impossible situation especially since Sapphire’s father is the highest commanding officer under the King of Sari. Their love is a betrayal of family and kingdom.

Livia Dare has written an amazing story in a futuristic landscape that is a compelling and fascinating. The love between the 2 star crossed lovers is a delight for the senses. I was particularly interested in Sapphire. It would have been nice to learn more about Sapphire complex history such as her decision/training to become a concubine and her combat training. My favorite part of the story is how Livia Dare portrays Wulfric. He is clearly an alpha male yet he accepts Sapphire as she is and allows her freedom to be herself. He is confident enough in himself that he does not feel the need to dominate her. The only thing I found slightly strange was the abrupt, somewhat rushed ending. I wish more time had been spent on the conclusion. However, the author will release 2 more books which will hopefully reveal more of the world and characters she has created. I highly recommend this story for those who love paranormal and futuristic romances with some very racy scenes! I thoroughly enjoyed this sensual story.

Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club