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Task Force Iota #1
18% Gray
In a future where the United States has split along party lines, Agent Matt Tennimore’s job is to get people out of the Confederated Red States, whether they’re captured special ops agents from his own country or gay CRS citizens who’ve petitioned for asylum. He never expected to have to retrieve his high school crush, aka the guy who ostracized him for being gay. Rescuing James Ayala isn’t going to be he’s crawling with tracking nanos and has a cybernetic brain implant that’s granted him psychic power he isn’t sure how to control. That’s the good news. The bad? The implant is compromising James’s mental stability. So they’re on the run, avoiding surveillance by AI aircraft and hiding from enemy militia. Then James confesses he tormented Matt in high school because James wanted him. Matt can’t resist the temptation James offers, but he wants so much more than sex, assuming they ever make it home alive. Is James really a good bet when he’s got a ticking time bomb in his brain and there’s the question of how much he’s actually changed?
280 pages, Paperback
First published July 31, 2011
30 people are currently reading
1253 people want to read
About the author
Anne Tenino
22 books670 followersCatalyzed by her discovery of LGBTQ romance, Anne Tenino left the lucrative fields of art history, non-profit fundraising, and domestic engineering (in that order) to follow her dream of become a starving romance author. For good or ill, her snarky, silly, quasi-British sense of humor came along for the ride.
Anne applies her particular blend of romance, comedy, and gay protagonists to contemporary, scifi, and paranormal tales. Her works have won many awards; her novel, Frat Boy and Toppy, is frequently referred to as a gay romance classic; she’s been featured in RT Book Reviews magazine; she holds the position of VP of Programming at her local RWA chapter; and she’s achieved bestseller status on Amazon’s gay romance list.
Born and raised in Oregon, Anne now lives in Portland with her family, who have all taken a sacred oath never to read her books. When not crocheting genitalia, growing tomatoes, driving teenagers around, or cooking something obscure, she can be found at her computer, procrastinating. Possibly while also lying on the couch, eating bon-bons.
Check out what Anne’s up to now by visiting her site. http://annetenino.com
Links:
Dreamspinner Press: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
Riptide:
http://www.riptidepublishing.com/auth...
Chicks & Dicks:
http://chicksndicks.blogspot.com
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/#!/AnneTenino
Goodreads profile:
http://www.goodreads.com/annetenino
Anne applies her particular blend of romance, comedy, and gay protagonists to contemporary, scifi, and paranormal tales. Her works have won many awards; her novel, Frat Boy and Toppy, is frequently referred to as a gay romance classic; she’s been featured in RT Book Reviews magazine; she holds the position of VP of Programming at her local RWA chapter; and she’s achieved bestseller status on Amazon’s gay romance list.
Born and raised in Oregon, Anne now lives in Portland with her family, who have all taken a sacred oath never to read her books. When not crocheting genitalia, growing tomatoes, driving teenagers around, or cooking something obscure, she can be found at her computer, procrastinating. Possibly while also lying on the couch, eating bon-bons.
Check out what Anne’s up to now by visiting her site. http://annetenino.com
Links:
Dreamspinner Press: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
Riptide:
http://www.riptidepublishing.com/auth...
Chicks & Dicks:
http://chicksndicks.blogspot.com
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/#!/AnneTenino
Goodreads profile:
http://www.goodreads.com/annetenino
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
December 4, 2013
I think I am in the minority when I say that this wasn't my favorite book by Anne Tenino. I feel pretty conflicted about this one. On one hand, I think she consistently writes very nice sex scenes. She really hits that sweet spot between tender and rough, loving and aggressive, that works very well for me. I also liked the chemistry between Matt and James. They felt very connected, like her characters in all of her books tend to feel to me.
My issues with this book all stem from my dislike of the "18% Gray" world. I found the sci-fi elements to be confusing (I kept getting the branches of the military mixed-up) and a bit on the dull side. I normally love sci-fi but here it just felt forced and awkward. I actually would have preferred this book to be written as more of a contemporary military romance (can you do that for me Anne Tenino, pretty pretty please!). I liked this book for the sparks between the two guys but I don't think I will be moving on with this series.
**edited to add**
Oh, I also was really irritated at the constant unnecessary condensing of phrases with apostrophes. Case in point: "Th' fuck". what is wrong with saying "What the fuck?" (I never curse so it was painful for me to even type that! But I had to show an example). She constantly uses these strange phrases and it really bugged me. Also, WTF is a "crotch rocket"? A motorcycle? Please don't call it a crotch rocket anymore!
My issues with this book all stem from my dislike of the "18% Gray" world. I found the sci-fi elements to be confusing (I kept getting the branches of the military mixed-up) and a bit on the dull side. I normally love sci-fi but here it just felt forced and awkward. I actually would have preferred this book to be written as more of a contemporary military romance (can you do that for me Anne Tenino, pretty pretty please!). I liked this book for the sparks between the two guys but I don't think I will be moving on with this series.
**edited to add**
Oh, I also was really irritated at the constant unnecessary condensing of phrases with apostrophes. Case in point: "Th' fuck". what is wrong with saying "What the fuck?" (I never curse so it was painful for me to even type that! But I had to show an example). She constantly uses these strange phrases and it really bugged me. Also, WTF is a "crotch rocket"? A motorcycle? Please don't call it a crotch rocket anymore!
August 7, 2016
4.5 stars
Sci-Fi isn't exactly my favorite pick within m/m romance. Glad to say I enjoyed Gray it was a fun, adventurous ride and very enjoyable. Oh and the secondary characters were mind boggling and hilarious!
Sci-Fi isn't exactly my favorite pick within m/m romance. Glad to say I enjoyed Gray it was a fun, adventurous ride and very enjoyable. Oh and the secondary characters were mind boggling and hilarious!
August 21, 2011
I was actively looking for an M/M sci-fi and thought the blurb from this sounded very high-concept. I got both this and A Solid Core Of Alpha, and chose to start with Ms. Tenino's 18% Gray, only because I'd never read anything by her before.
The book itself did not disappoint as far as originality is concerned. The divisions of the states, while I'm sure has been done before in other media, seemed fresh to me, and I thought it was executed well. Both Matt and James were believable heroes, and I was geniunely invested in their journey. The relationship between the two had to be earned, as evident from the beginning where James came off like a world-class jerk. But he redeemed himself in the end and I certainly hope this is not the last that we've seen of either of them.
Why only four stars? A couple of things.
First, the acronyms that we the reader had to remember seemed to get out of hand. The different factions and the different divisions between the warring groups each had their own title and I often got confused as to who was being referred to throughout the course of the book. It felt like I needed to take notes in order to remember who was what. I think that, if there is a sequel, it may be beneficial to have a list either at the beginning or the end of the book showing what each group was so the reader could refer to it and have a better grasp of the story.
The other reason? This is strictly my own personal niggle, because the rest of Ms. Tenino's prose I thought was wonderful. It comes down to two simple bits of dialouge that are repeated throughout the story; "Th' fuck."
Now, I know maybe that's how they sounded when they spoke. Maybe that's part of the dialect. But my god, whenever I heard those two words, I could only think of an episode of South Park where Cartman said "Th' fuck" like 30 times. It unintentionally cracked me up every time I read it, and I couldn't help but think that an "e" at the end of "Th" could have sounded better. Or hell, even "What the fuck."
But again, that's just me, ya know? If you don't know, well, all I can say to you is th' fuck?
The book itself did not disappoint as far as originality is concerned. The divisions of the states, while I'm sure has been done before in other media, seemed fresh to me, and I thought it was executed well. Both Matt and James were believable heroes, and I was geniunely invested in their journey. The relationship between the two had to be earned, as evident from the beginning where James came off like a world-class jerk. But he redeemed himself in the end and I certainly hope this is not the last that we've seen of either of them.
Why only four stars? A couple of things.
First, the acronyms that we the reader had to remember seemed to get out of hand. The different factions and the different divisions between the warring groups each had their own title and I often got confused as to who was being referred to throughout the course of the book. It felt like I needed to take notes in order to remember who was what. I think that, if there is a sequel, it may be beneficial to have a list either at the beginning or the end of the book showing what each group was so the reader could refer to it and have a better grasp of the story.
The other reason? This is strictly my own personal niggle, because the rest of Ms. Tenino's prose I thought was wonderful. It comes down to two simple bits of dialouge that are repeated throughout the story; "Th' fuck."
Now, I know maybe that's how they sounded when they spoke. Maybe that's part of the dialect. But my god, whenever I heard those two words, I could only think of an episode of South Park where Cartman said "Th' fuck" like 30 times. It unintentionally cracked me up every time I read it, and I couldn't help but think that an "e" at the end of "Th" could have sounded better. Or hell, even "What the fuck."
But again, that's just me, ya know? If you don't know, well, all I can say to you is th' fuck?
September 22, 2024
3.5 Stars
18% Gray is an innovative M/M romance, in terms of both concept and execution. It’s a little bit futuristic sci-fi drama and a little bit military extraction adventure, mixed together with a dash of quirk and wit, and underlined by a high school crush finally revealed and reciprocated between the MCs, Matt and James.
I’ve read plenty of sci-fi themed M/M stories in my day, and I’ll happily give this one points for originality. Although an older story now, I can see why this one was quite popular a decade ago when it first came out.
I liked Matt and James and I enjoyed watching the way their once-decimated high school friendship quickly reignited and blossomed into passion and love upon being reunited during some pretty high stakes in hostile territories.
The futuristic world-building was ambitious, mostly carried out in a clear and comprehensive way, but I must admit it was a little info heavy at times, featuring specialised jargon that went a bit over my head when things became too wordy. That’s probably on me though, as I’m not switched on mentally (least of all to full capacity) at the moment, what with the world going through what it is right now, so too much heavy thinking just isn’t in me currently.
Mostly, I enjoyed following Matt and James as they traversed dangerous, enemy-filled territory, in their desperate, time-sensitive race to get home in one piece (or mostly in one piece). It definitely helped that their story featured some lovely hurt-comfort themes and some tender and heated sex scenes, which were all the more absorbing, what with James’ ever-evolving psychic capabilities.
Overall, this was a welcomed read to tick off my long-standing TBR list and I look forward to seeing what happens next for Matt and James in the sequel, Turning Tricks.
18% Gray is an innovative M/M romance, in terms of both concept and execution. It’s a little bit futuristic sci-fi drama and a little bit military extraction adventure, mixed together with a dash of quirk and wit, and underlined by a high school crush finally revealed and reciprocated between the MCs, Matt and James.
I’ve read plenty of sci-fi themed M/M stories in my day, and I’ll happily give this one points for originality. Although an older story now, I can see why this one was quite popular a decade ago when it first came out.
I liked Matt and James and I enjoyed watching the way their once-decimated high school friendship quickly reignited and blossomed into passion and love upon being reunited during some pretty high stakes in hostile territories.
The futuristic world-building was ambitious, mostly carried out in a clear and comprehensive way, but I must admit it was a little info heavy at times, featuring specialised jargon that went a bit over my head when things became too wordy. That’s probably on me though, as I’m not switched on mentally (least of all to full capacity) at the moment, what with the world going through what it is right now, so too much heavy thinking just isn’t in me currently.
Mostly, I enjoyed following Matt and James as they traversed dangerous, enemy-filled territory, in their desperate, time-sensitive race to get home in one piece (or mostly in one piece). It definitely helped that their story featured some lovely hurt-comfort themes and some tender and heated sex scenes, which were all the more absorbing, what with James’ ever-evolving psychic capabilities.
Overall, this was a welcomed read to tick off my long-standing TBR list and I look forward to seeing what happens next for Matt and James in the sequel, Turning Tricks.
December 4, 2013
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed the world-building in this book. Dystopian, sci-fi’ish, military…good stuff. The story had a nice hodge-podge of entertainment: childhood friends-to-enemies-to-lovers, a fun escape story line, an annoying little nun you’ll want to punch in the face (but she’s kind of hysterical), a prosthetic that doubles as a treasure chest, and more gay men then you can count.
I also really liked the MC’s: Matt & James. They had a slow-burn chemistry and when it finally got hot, it got HOT!
But, ultimately, I just think I’m not smart enough for this book!!! I was lost more than ½ the time and found myself asking “wait, what just happened?” and going back and having to reread and still not getting it. Dense…this one (<-me).
The story itself is FUN and FRESH. And I’m a fan. I just can tell that by the end, I missed more than a few things and finished wishing I was smarter and more clever. Maybe that’s a good thing…because, really, who doesn’t want to be smarter and more clever? So, if you believe yourself to be smarter and more clever than I am, you should definitely read this book. :) I think you’d love it.
I’m moving on to book 2 in the series…
December 4, 2013
Well, this was a strange one...some really good bits, and then there were others where you thought...what the hell??
In 2056, the United States had been divided into two parts following a civil war – Red and Blue. In the Red states, gays are persecuted and forced into “re-education,” along with being chipped and monitored. Gays can petition to be rescued by the Blue states and get asylum there. The Blue States are more liberal
, Matt Tennimore works for the Queer Extraction Services Association (QESA) in the Blue States of America, and has been called in for an assignment: rescue a captured Blue soldier who is stuck in Idaho, over in the Red States. Matt is surprised to find that the soldier he is being sent to retrieve is former classmate (and former crush) James Ayala. Although the two were friends in high school and Matt was attracted to James, once James found out Matt was gay, he broke off their friendship and turned to cold looks and nasty comments instead; however, James soon comes around and the men get back to a friendly relationship. Matt is aware that James has an implant as a result of military experimentation, but is unaware as to how much this is affecting James and what is actually happening with the implant now - it is giving him different abilities and skills, and is obviously quite frightening.
There were distinct parts to the book - the first part of the book dealt with the division of the USA and all that went with it. All sorts of weird acronyms QESA, SOUF, RIA and many more, a little bit overwhelming unfortunately, and difficult to remember most of the time. The second part of the book dealt with the road trip the two guys had to take to get back to the Blue States and safety, and this was the part of the book I liked the best. There were some really funny lines in this section of the book, and some hilarious scenes, most of which appeared to include 'Miz'
, the horse that James could communicate with 'Dr Doolittle' style and which had helped them to escape, and then there was a strange character, Beni, who was a nymphomaniac nun
!! I didn't really get her inclusion in the story at all, but again, there were some really funny scenes featuring her and her fight to lose her virginity to either of the gay guys, who of course were simply not interested. James' developing mental skills were another feature, and the telepathy between himself and Matt that helped them on their trip, but ultimately this is a love story between the two guys 
, and how their relationship develops and progresses in the face of sometimes overwhelming odds.There was lot happening in this book and at times it felt like a bit too much to keep track of. But I loved the story of James and Matt and I really enjoyed the humour interwoven throughout. The road trip plot really worked for me, as did the part about the implant and how it affected both men.
September 24, 2011
I like futuristic speculative fiction, and I like m/m, but I couldn't get into this book at all. Much of my problem was due to the narrative style, which I think tried to be humorous but which unfortunately came off as simplistic and silly. The main characters had little personality of their own, and thus no chemistry together. Honestly I had trouble remembering which was which the entire time. The same goes for all of the many, many be-acronymned organizations and gadgets, with convoluted origins and explanations, and not enough distinction or bearing on the story to actually commit to memory. The side characters were over the top and one-dimensional; uninteresting at best, and unbearably annoying at their worst.
A storyline that should have been screaming with dramatic tension came off flat and uninteresting, and meandered along with a lack of forward momentum. In fact, after the main characters hooked up, I'd say the story was mostly driven by porn from that point forward. Realistic and sympathetic plot devices for emotional tension were completely skipped over, meanwhile shallowly manufactured ones were sprung into place down the road.
Finally, I was continually bothered by the story's black-and-white, us-vs-them attitude (where thems=bad and us=good, natch.) I guess I was hoping for more nuance, and as the title seemed to promise, more shades of gray.
Pertinent Word Counts:
love: 39
cock: 49
crotch rocket: 6
A storyline that should have been screaming with dramatic tension came off flat and uninteresting, and meandered along with a lack of forward momentum. In fact, after the main characters hooked up, I'd say the story was mostly driven by porn from that point forward. Realistic and sympathetic plot devices for emotional tension were completely skipped over, meanwhile shallowly manufactured ones were sprung into place down the road.
Finally, I was continually bothered by the story's black-and-white, us-vs-them attitude (where thems=bad and us=good, natch.) I guess I was hoping for more nuance, and as the title seemed to promise, more shades of gray.
Pertinent Word Counts:
love: 39
cock: 49
crotch rocket: 6
December 4, 2013
3.5 Stars.
My first book by Anne Tenino and I liked it, once I got passed the 15% mark.
This is set in a dystopian America where the states have been divided into red and blue party lines: liberal pro-gay (blue) and conservative anti-gay (red). You need to pay attention here, and stay focussed for a little while - which I’m not really good at. …Ooh look, bubbles… <-- see what I mean.
I admit having to read a few things one too many times before coming to grips with this world but I got there in the end … I think. The many, many confusing anachronisms didn’t help but again … I got there - and if I can, you can too. It’s worth it.
The adventure and delight really begins when James (ultimate psychic warrior) and Matt (queer extraction agent) re-unite and begin their dash for freedom across the red line and into the blue, while being pursued by the RIA militia (red party homophobes).
They encounter some brilliant side characters like Miz Horse (talking horse with attitude) – who snorts as much as James (ha!) and an ex special forces Nun who can say “Jesus fucking Christ” because “her God understands the need for bad language“(snorts)
And then there is the unforgettable little nymphomaniac nunette Benigna – the poor girls just wants to get laid and the only men she meets are gay (hehehehe).
This is all great stuff and I think this is where the author talent lies. That is; until the attraction between Matt and James reaches a crescendo and I start to experience the full body flushes – oh yes, this author’s got talent! Phew- whee the lady can write sex too, really HOT sex. I think it’s because her characters are so understatedly sexy in their own way, not your archetypal gorgeous hero’s which heightens the experience. Well that’s what I thought until I met Laslo, and Laslo meets Logan … but that’s a story for later, I hope.
Yes. I liked this book for its humour, refreshing characterisations and very satisfying man loving. It could have benefited from better pacing and a glossary for all the acronyms – but overall it’s a winner.
I’ll recommend it.
For more reviews check out Sid's blog
My first book by Anne Tenino and I liked it, once I got passed the 15% mark.
This is set in a dystopian America where the states have been divided into red and blue party lines: liberal pro-gay (blue) and conservative anti-gay (red). You need to pay attention here, and stay focussed for a little while - which I’m not really good at. …Ooh look, bubbles… <-- see what I mean.
I admit having to read a few things one too many times before coming to grips with this world but I got there in the end … I think. The many, many confusing anachronisms didn’t help but again … I got there - and if I can, you can too. It’s worth it.
The adventure and delight really begins when James (ultimate psychic warrior) and Matt (queer extraction agent) re-unite and begin their dash for freedom across the red line and into the blue, while being pursued by the RIA militia (red party homophobes).
They encounter some brilliant side characters like Miz Horse (talking horse with attitude) – who snorts as much as James (ha!) and an ex special forces Nun who can say “Jesus fucking Christ” because “her God understands the need for bad language“(snorts)
And then there is the unforgettable little nymphomaniac nunette Benigna – the poor girls just wants to get laid and the only men she meets are gay (hehehehe).
This is all great stuff and I think this is where the author talent lies. That is; until the attraction between Matt and James reaches a crescendo and I start to experience the full body flushes – oh yes, this author’s got talent! Phew- whee the lady can write sex too, really HOT sex. I think it’s because her characters are so understatedly sexy in their own way, not your archetypal gorgeous hero’s which heightens the experience. Well that’s what I thought until I met Laslo, and Laslo meets Logan … but that’s a story for later, I hope.
Yes. I liked this book for its humour, refreshing characterisations and very satisfying man loving. It could have benefited from better pacing and a glossary for all the acronyms – but overall it’s a winner.
I’ll recommend it.
For more reviews check out Sid's blog
December 4, 2013
I love characters that are snarky. Matt is deliciously so and this has to have the best opening of any book I've ever read.
The world-building here is so interesting and this is an odd one to classify...dystopian sci-fi maybe? The United States has divided along party lines: red and blue. It's much more complicated than that but easier to read it than explain it! O_o
Matt Tennimore's job is rescuing and transporting people out of the red into the blue. This time the job is more personal because it's someone he has history with...an old high school crush that crushed him. There are still some hard feelings on Matt's part and some ambiguous ones on James' part.
James Ayala is the rescued. The red has altered him and added cybernetic brain implant that is changing him in ways he has a hard time controlling, so he's a bit of loose cannon. He and Matt are on the run for the border and being chased by a government that does not want to lose the power of James' shiny new bionic brain.
This is probably the hardest book I've ever had to describe but when you are reading it all falls into place and doesn't seem complicated at all.
The developing relationship between Matt and James is pretty wonderful. There is antagonism but it's wrapped up in a tremendous amount of chemistry.
The world building is fascinating. Strong secondary characters that I'd love to read more about (Laslo and Logan, I'm looking at you!) and an original storyline that just drags you right in. Great read! I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
The world-building here is so interesting and this is an odd one to classify...dystopian sci-fi maybe? The United States has divided along party lines: red and blue. It's much more complicated than that but easier to read it than explain it! O_o
Matt Tennimore's job is rescuing and transporting people out of the red into the blue. This time the job is more personal because it's someone he has history with...an old high school crush that crushed him. There are still some hard feelings on Matt's part and some ambiguous ones on James' part.
James Ayala is the rescued. The red has altered him and added cybernetic brain implant that is changing him in ways he has a hard time controlling, so he's a bit of loose cannon. He and Matt are on the run for the border and being chased by a government that does not want to lose the power of James' shiny new bionic brain.
This is probably the hardest book I've ever had to describe but when you are reading it all falls into place and doesn't seem complicated at all.
The developing relationship between Matt and James is pretty wonderful. There is antagonism but it's wrapped up in a tremendous amount of chemistry.
The world building is fascinating. Strong secondary characters that I'd love to read more about (Laslo and Logan, I'm looking at you!) and an original storyline that just drags you right in. Great read! I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
did-not-finish
August 5, 2023DNF @ 11%. No rating.
It's me, not the book. The author clearly put a ton of effort into creating this militaristic future version of the US and you can feel the enthusiasm and pride the author has in this world they created but the way the worldbuilding was delivered didn't work for me. The story takes place approximately 80 years in the future, in a version of the US that experienced a second civil war in the 2050s and that led to the permanent splitting of the US into the blue versus red states. I wasn't a fan of the YA-like black and white depiction of the blue vs red states where the blue states are all hardcore liberal and they're wealthy, perfect utopias while the red states are all republican and they're run like prisons and resemble slums.
But my bigger problem with the worldbuilding is that it was too detailed. The author goes into a ton of explanation regarding the different military units in the different states, what tech is used by civilians and military personnel, historical info regarding the civil war and what happened to specific states and specific cities and lots more. To the author's credit, Matt was a great choice for narrating the worldbuilding details because he has a jaded, grumpy view of the world so his narration is sarcastic and phrased in ways that readers will understand. But despite the author's efforts to make the worldbuilding explanations as accessible as possible, I still got overwhelmed. As a result, I did a lot of skimming because I couldn't get excited about this world and what was happening with the MCs.
My lack of understanding with this story's world was most disappointing when I didn't understand the author's repeated attempts to explain the meaning of the title. It had something to do with scientists having identified a 'gay gene' and that 18% of people had it but not all of those people are gay and not all gay people have the gene. Or something like that...? And this 18% thing is used by the gay community as a form of identifying each other by carrying around pieces of fabric that consist of the 18% grey color. It's like the new form of the rainbow flag...? But no matter how many times the author tried to explain it, I still didn't get it, which was unfortunate.
That's pretty much my main problem with the story. The author tried so, so hard to explain things to me but I just didn't understand and because of that, the story felt overwhelming and confusing.
It's me, not the book. The author clearly put a ton of effort into creating this militaristic future version of the US and you can feel the enthusiasm and pride the author has in this world they created but the way the worldbuilding was delivered didn't work for me. The story takes place approximately 80 years in the future, in a version of the US that experienced a second civil war in the 2050s and that led to the permanent splitting of the US into the blue versus red states. I wasn't a fan of the YA-like black and white depiction of the blue vs red states where the blue states are all hardcore liberal and they're wealthy, perfect utopias while the red states are all republican and they're run like prisons and resemble slums.
But my bigger problem with the worldbuilding is that it was too detailed. The author goes into a ton of explanation regarding the different military units in the different states, what tech is used by civilians and military personnel, historical info regarding the civil war and what happened to specific states and specific cities and lots more. To the author's credit, Matt was a great choice for narrating the worldbuilding details because he has a jaded, grumpy view of the world so his narration is sarcastic and phrased in ways that readers will understand. But despite the author's efforts to make the worldbuilding explanations as accessible as possible, I still got overwhelmed. As a result, I did a lot of skimming because I couldn't get excited about this world and what was happening with the MCs.
My lack of understanding with this story's world was most disappointing when I didn't understand the author's repeated attempts to explain the meaning of the title. It had something to do with scientists having identified a 'gay gene' and that 18% of people had it but not all of those people are gay and not all gay people have the gene. Or something like that...? And this 18% thing is used by the gay community as a form of identifying each other by carrying around pieces of fabric that consist of the 18% grey color. It's like the new form of the rainbow flag...? But no matter how many times the author tried to explain it, I still didn't get it, which was unfortunate.
That's pretty much my main problem with the story. The author tried so, so hard to explain things to me but I just didn't understand and because of that, the story felt overwhelming and confusing.
August 17, 2011
4.5 stars
I loved this book. It had everything I love to read in books. Sci-fi/fantasy feel, lovable and funny characters and hot sexy men that don't have too much sex.
I loved how Matt and James knew each other in the past and while it's not friends to lovers it's more like enemies to lovers! At least, kind of. Matt and James went to high school together, they were somewhat friends but once James found Matt in a compromising situation, James does a complete one-eighty and starts being mean to Matt. So, when the book starts, Matt pretty much hates James (after being away from each other for years) even though he still lusts after him ;-P
There were some really funny scenes in this book that had me either laughing or smiling throughout the whole story. Matt and his sensitivity to drugs was hilarious, the expressions Matt and James had regarding certain things I visualized in my mind had me snickering a lot. The horse Matt and James 'adopt', Miz Horse, is such a treat, smart, witty and the constant snorting of horse mucus on Matt always made me smile. Technically I should say Miz adopts Matt and James lol. James, while kind of severe sometimes and serious was an awesome character, too. By the end of the book I could feel the love between these two. And, OMG, I can't forget about the horny nun! What a freaking hoot!
The only problem I had with this story was the confusion I felt in the beginning. I was captivated by the story right from the start but I was just a tad confused on some things regarding the lay of the land, new tech stuff, the different organizations, etc. It's an interesting concept, plot and world, I just wished there had been a glossary or something so I could go back and reference some of the words, names and the acronyms associated with each one. Also, Matt has a HUGE family. I kind of wished I had a family tree so I could fully grasp where all his cousins, aunts and uncles came from. Lol
All in all, I seriously loved this book. It's the kind of book you need to focus on and really pay attention to, though, or else you'll be confused throughout the whole story. Once I realized I needed to put all my attention into the book, it was much easier to read. I'm really looking forward to the next in the series. Definitely Recommended.
Oh, and for all you series Nazi's out there (no offense) there's a sort of 'epilogue' short story about Matt and James, Happy Birthday to Me. It's a very cute story and I loved that one as well. Word of advice, though, don't read Happy Birthday to Me until after the next book in the series comes out because there's a tiny spoiler regarding the next couple in it.
I loved this book. It had everything I love to read in books. Sci-fi/fantasy feel, lovable and funny characters and hot sexy men that don't have too much sex.
I loved how Matt and James knew each other in the past and while it's not friends to lovers it's more like enemies to lovers! At least, kind of. Matt and James went to high school together, they were somewhat friends but once James found Matt in a compromising situation, James does a complete one-eighty and starts being mean to Matt. So, when the book starts, Matt pretty much hates James (after being away from each other for years) even though he still lusts after him ;-P
There were some really funny scenes in this book that had me either laughing or smiling throughout the whole story. Matt and his sensitivity to drugs was hilarious, the expressions Matt and James had regarding certain things I visualized in my mind had me snickering a lot. The horse Matt and James 'adopt', Miz Horse, is such a treat, smart, witty and the constant snorting of horse mucus on Matt always made me smile. Technically I should say Miz adopts Matt and James lol. James, while kind of severe sometimes and serious was an awesome character, too. By the end of the book I could feel the love between these two. And, OMG, I can't forget about the horny nun! What a freaking hoot!
The only problem I had with this story was the confusion I felt in the beginning. I was captivated by the story right from the start but I was just a tad confused on some things regarding the lay of the land, new tech stuff, the different organizations, etc. It's an interesting concept, plot and world, I just wished there had been a glossary or something so I could go back and reference some of the words, names and the acronyms associated with each one. Also, Matt has a HUGE family. I kind of wished I had a family tree so I could fully grasp where all his cousins, aunts and uncles came from. Lol
All in all, I seriously loved this book. It's the kind of book you need to focus on and really pay attention to, though, or else you'll be confused throughout the whole story. Once I realized I needed to put all my attention into the book, it was much easier to read. I'm really looking forward to the next in the series. Definitely Recommended.
Oh, and for all you series Nazi's out there (no offense) there's a sort of 'epilogue' short story about Matt and James, Happy Birthday to Me. It's a very cute story and I loved that one as well. Word of advice, though, don't read Happy Birthday to Me until after the next book in the series comes out because there's a tiny spoiler regarding the next couple in it.
January 7, 2020
4.2 Stars
Still gives me chills, even more so via audiobook this go round...mainly because never more so has it sounded as possible a future than it does to me right now. From the division of states along ideological lines, to an increase of church influence in crafting/policing new morality laws, to the plight of red-states being so much poorer than than blue states, to government agencies/military branches tinkering with/experimenting on it's soldiers...and even the smaller details like Idaho privatizing their National Forests and Parks (leading to much of the tree-cover being denuded) - it's terrifyingly plausible because that framework really is mostly there already.
I would like to say that I thought maybe Clark County would merge with Cali during the division, not staying with the rest of Nevada...but as much as this is "Sin City" we are a very prudish place when it comes to the residents, so no, this county wouldn't be the one liberal place in the state after all - which depressed me even more.
Still, there's a hopeful edge to this book and I'm clinging to that like I'm Rose on the (big enough for Jack, too, damn it!!!) wooden door.
Still gives me chills, even more so via audiobook this go round...mainly because never more so has it sounded as possible a future than it does to me right now. From the division of states along ideological lines, to an increase of church influence in crafting/policing new morality laws, to the plight of red-states being so much poorer than than blue states, to government agencies/military branches tinkering with/experimenting on it's soldiers...and even the smaller details like Idaho privatizing their National Forests and Parks (leading to much of the tree-cover being denuded) - it's terrifyingly plausible because that framework really is mostly there already.
I would like to say that I thought maybe Clark County would merge with Cali during the division, not staying with the rest of Nevada...but as much as this is "Sin City" we are a very prudish place when it comes to the residents, so no, this county wouldn't be the one liberal place in the state after all - which depressed me even more.
Still, there's a hopeful edge to this book and I'm clinging to that like I'm Rose on the (big enough for Jack, too, damn it!!!) wooden door.
June 16, 2017
3.5 Stars
The setup is pretty interesting and original. This is a futuristic world where the U.S. is sharply divided into Blue and Red states. Red states are ultra conservative - sex is basically forbidden and being gay is criminal.
Sooo you've got scrappy and resilient Matt who's been tasked to extract his high school crush from a red state. He's fighting his feelings and trying to remain professional.
James who is now out of the closet, struggles with some guilt and finds himself trying to prove his worth and make amends. He also has to deal with his growing psychic abilities that make him a huge asset as they confront many obstacles. These powers are greatly coveted by the enemy and they're pursued mercilessly.
Quickly but realistically, these two get reacquainted as they try to escape. I find the author typically writes good smex and I wasn't disappointed here. Go ahead and throw in some silly humor, fabulous UST, tense action scenes and emotional depth as well. This was a pretty satisfying read in the end and I will read the next installment!
The setup is pretty interesting and original. This is a futuristic world where the U.S. is sharply divided into Blue and Red states. Red states are ultra conservative - sex is basically forbidden and being gay is criminal.
Sooo you've got scrappy and resilient Matt who's been tasked to extract his high school crush from a red state. He's fighting his feelings and trying to remain professional.
James who is now out of the closet, struggles with some guilt and finds himself trying to prove his worth and make amends. He also has to deal with his growing psychic abilities that make him a huge asset as they confront many obstacles. These powers are greatly coveted by the enemy and they're pursued mercilessly.
Quickly but realistically, these two get reacquainted as they try to escape. I find the author typically writes good smex and I wasn't disappointed here. Go ahead and throw in some silly humor, fabulous UST, tense action scenes and emotional depth as well. This was a pretty satisfying read in the end and I will read the next installment!
November 3, 2011
Overall, I'll give this a 2.5 star rating. But frankly, there were moments where it barely passed 2.
The starting point was interesting enough. Near future, separation of power, ostracism of gays as background and as main plot, two former friends and high school colleagues reunited. I thought the story would detail Matt going in to save James and the perils he fought to ensure Ayala made it back safely. I was somewhat put off by Matt turning into a needy teenager, leaving all responsibility and action on the person who needed saving. If James was so self sufficient, why did Matt even bother to save him?
The story had a good pace but I always got side-tracked either by burst of emotions from James/Matt that seemed out of place or by them going at it like rabbits. Whenever I thought I was starting to like the characters, they did or said something that didn't seem to go with the situation or state of mind. Example: "snort fest". I was too surprised at how it appeared in the scene, to find it funny. And other small things like that.
I might be picky but personally, I found both the characters and the story flawed as if various story lines or characteristics were put together, without a care to make it smooth. And the basic idea and occasional funny moments weren't enough to make it a good read.
The starting point was interesting enough. Near future, separation of power, ostracism of gays as background and as main plot, two former friends and high school colleagues reunited. I thought the story would detail Matt going in to save James and the perils he fought to ensure Ayala made it back safely. I was somewhat put off by Matt turning into a needy teenager, leaving all responsibility and action on the person who needed saving. If James was so self sufficient, why did Matt even bother to save him?
The story had a good pace but I always got side-tracked either by burst of emotions from James/Matt that seemed out of place or by them going at it like rabbits. Whenever I thought I was starting to like the characters, they did or said something that didn't seem to go with the situation or state of mind. Example: "snort fest". I was too surprised at how it appeared in the scene, to find it funny. And other small things like that.
I might be picky but personally, I found both the characters and the story flawed as if various story lines or characteristics were put together, without a care to make it smooth. And the basic idea and occasional funny moments weren't enough to make it a good read.
February 5, 2017
Overall book rating 4 Something Else Stars
Audio book: Narrator - Paul Morey 4.5 Stars
Book cover: 3 Stars
I was in the mood for something else. So totally climbing out of the “box” and going AWOL worked for me. I liked all the funny stuff. Hiding tech in your prosthetic leg and hovering things shooting at you. I think if you take on something like this you have to throw caution to wind in a way?
I liked it. I WILL read another one and maybe after that another because I loved the part where Lazlo promised Logan that he’d come for him! Oh GOODY!!!! If its done right it’s gonna be so good! I can’t wait.
Audio book: Narrator - Paul Morey 4.5 Stars
Book cover: 3 Stars
I was in the mood for something else. So totally climbing out of the “box” and going AWOL worked for me. I liked all the funny stuff. Hiding tech in your prosthetic leg and hovering things shooting at you. I think if you take on something like this you have to throw caution to wind in a way?
I liked it. I WILL read another one and maybe after that another because I loved the part where Lazlo promised Logan that he’d come for him! Oh GOODY!!!! If its done right it’s gonna be so good! I can’t wait.
July 27, 2020
Very cool science fiction war/military story from Anne Tenino. Lots of clever stuff and I loved the premise. Interesting characters and they have good chemistry. Audio performed by Paul Morey who does a nice job.
September 23, 2012
The reason why I never rate books I could not finish is that I never know if it depends on the book or on me or if it could have blown me away from the moment I abandoned it on. I began this book a couple of months ago and put it down at 10% because I couldn't get into it - and I desperately wanted to - and I picked it up again two days ago and devoured it.
I liked the world building and the idea that the ex-US are split into Red and Blue states, according to the party politics of that state. The Blue states are more liberal and more advanced technologically, while the Red are more conservative, especially about sexuality. Even if the setting tackles important issues, there is no preaching (but it's clear where the sympathies of the author go) and the story is light and there's always a vein of humor. In a setting like that there's always the risk of going over the top, but characters or situations never cross that limit.
The main characters, Matt and James were friends in high school but they had a bad fall-out - James caught Matt with a friend and treated him like a homophobe afterwards - and they almost turned into enemies. Matt's mission is to help James escape from the Red States, after he's been captured and rehabilitated for being gay. That's a surprise for Matt, and it's awkward for James. I liked the way the author brought the two men closer, describing the attraction and affection they felt for each other and how she was able to convey the realization of the main couple that there could be something great between them. I think James empathic implant could have been an easy way for an author to skip some stages in their getting closer, but instead of solving problems of communication, it created additional doubts and longing.
The only couple of things I could complain about were the way they guys talked, which didn't make them easy to differentiate sometimes and the long stay in the convent, which was needed to make them recuperate and give them the chance to be together in a more comfortable environment, but it was maybe a chapter too long.
Kudos for making a character out of a horse and for sister Benigna: I was happy she couldn't swim and she had to cross a river, but she was annoying in a very entertaining way and curiously focused, ahem. There's a bit of teasing about a new possible couple, with a forced separation, a story I would LOVE to read in the future.
And before I forget, great cuddling scenes, written with no sappiness and a lot of emotion and sensuality.
I'm glad I picked it up again!
I liked the world building and the idea that the ex-US are split into Red and Blue states, according to the party politics of that state. The Blue states are more liberal and more advanced technologically, while the Red are more conservative, especially about sexuality. Even if the setting tackles important issues, there is no preaching (but it's clear where the sympathies of the author go) and the story is light and there's always a vein of humor. In a setting like that there's always the risk of going over the top, but characters or situations never cross that limit.
The main characters, Matt and James were friends in high school but they had a bad fall-out - James caught Matt with a friend and treated him like a homophobe afterwards - and they almost turned into enemies. Matt's mission is to help James escape from the Red States, after he's been captured and rehabilitated for being gay. That's a surprise for Matt, and it's awkward for James. I liked the way the author brought the two men closer, describing the attraction and affection they felt for each other and how she was able to convey the realization of the main couple that there could be something great between them. I think James empathic implant could have been an easy way for an author to skip some stages in their getting closer, but instead of solving problems of communication, it created additional doubts and longing.
The only couple of things I could complain about were the way they guys talked, which didn't make them easy to differentiate sometimes and the long stay in the convent, which was needed to make them recuperate and give them the chance to be together in a more comfortable environment, but it was maybe a chapter too long.
Kudos for making a character out of a horse and for sister Benigna: I was happy she couldn't swim and she had to cross a river, but she was annoying in a very entertaining way and curiously focused, ahem. There's a bit of teasing about a new possible couple, with a forced separation, a story I would LOVE to read in the future.
And before I forget, great cuddling scenes, written with no sappiness and a lot of emotion and sensuality.
I'm glad I picked it up again!
March 25, 2015
*3 stars for the story, and one extra for the MCs*
The story itself was quite simple (basically being on the run from the enemy), and could have been a boring journey. I was also confused sometimes, and needed to go back to see if I had missed something that suddenly was mentioned.
But thanks to James and Matt, the journey turned very enjoyable! And since this book for me was really all about the characters, I didn’t turn on my brain completely.
Really, the chemistry between the MCs was soo good:-). I loved how they talked to each other, and how they thought of each other.
The sexual tension between them was great, and the slow build-up, with lingering glances and “accidental” touching” made me so frustrated. However, it was well worth the wait. Yummy, yummy.
James, oh James mmm…He is my second favorite “rumbler” (after Eric in Sweet Young Thang. No one can rumble like Eric!)
The world building was ok, it was an interesting look at an alternative USA, with a big gap between the conservative states and the more liberal ones.
I also got a bit Star Wars vibes while reading
The characters around the MCs were also easy to feel for, and I found myself particularly liking Miz, the snot-spraying mare. She was an entertaining addition to their gang:-).
Matt’s cousins and the rest of his family were well described, and quite entertaining.
The one character I felt a bit strange was Beni. She was funny, but I’m not sure what her point was, maybe just comic relief, bit I think Miz took care of that perfectly fine.
As for Laslo and Logan, I felt a total connection to their story after just getting a couple of pages in this book from their POV. But after checking what book 2 is about, I realize that they DON’T have a story! I sincerely hope that will come at some point.
The story itself was quite simple (basically being on the run from the enemy), and could have been a boring journey. I was also confused sometimes, and needed to go back to see if I had missed something that suddenly was mentioned.
But thanks to James and Matt, the journey turned very enjoyable! And since this book for me was really all about the characters, I didn’t turn on my brain completely.
Really, the chemistry between the MCs was soo good:-). I loved how they talked to each other, and how they thought of each other.
The sexual tension between them was great, and the slow build-up, with lingering glances and “accidental” touching” made me so frustrated. However, it was well worth the wait. Yummy, yummy.
James, oh James mmm…He is my second favorite “rumbler” (after Eric in Sweet Young Thang. No one can rumble like Eric!)
The world building was ok, it was an interesting look at an alternative USA, with a big gap between the conservative states and the more liberal ones.
I also got a bit Star Wars vibes while reading
The characters around the MCs were also easy to feel for, and I found myself particularly liking Miz, the snot-spraying mare. She was an entertaining addition to their gang:-).
Matt’s cousins and the rest of his family were well described, and quite entertaining.
The one character I felt a bit strange was Beni. She was funny, but I’m not sure what her point was, maybe just comic relief, bit I think Miz took care of that perfectly fine.
As for Laslo and Logan, I felt a total connection to their story after just getting a couple of pages in this book from their POV. But after checking what book 2 is about, I realize that they DON’T have a story! I sincerely hope that will come at some point.
June 25, 2012
The first half of the book the two gay protagonists Matt & James are at odds while escaping the bad right wing ultraconservative homophobes in Idaho and returning to their homeland of gay-friendly, left wing, ultra-liberal Oregon. The boredom had to stop. The story had to pick up. Didn't it? No, not really. The second half of the book is the same except the guys have fallen in love and are having sex as they continue to make their escape.
There is very little world building, just some quick reference to an event called the Split Between The States. We are told the US is split up into red states and blue states. If it sounds like political satire, it is not. No government structure is given. The only part of the world we see is the red state of Idaho and just the slightest glimpse of blue Oregon.
Will our two lovers make it to safety? Will the nymphomaniac nun ever get laid? Will the author learn to edit her manuscripts and catch typos like using the word father when she meant farther? Will the author stop referring to the telepathic horse as the talking horse? By the end it was Sorry I just don't even care anymore.
I should have abandoned this book for its boredom and silliness but I kept hoping that it would get better, after all Anne Tenino wrote the wonderfully fun and sexy m/m romance Frat Boy and Toppy so there was a chance, right? Alas, no.
There is very little world building, just some quick reference to an event called the Split Between The States. We are told the US is split up into red states and blue states. If it sounds like political satire, it is not. No government structure is given. The only part of the world we see is the red state of Idaho and just the slightest glimpse of blue Oregon.
Will our two lovers make it to safety? Will the nymphomaniac nun ever get laid? Will the author learn to edit her manuscripts and catch typos like using the word father when she meant farther? Will the author stop referring to the telepathic horse as the talking horse? By the end it was Sorry I just don't even care anymore.
I should have abandoned this book for its boredom and silliness but I kept hoping that it would get better, after all Anne Tenino wrote the wonderfully fun and sexy m/m romance Frat Boy and Toppy so there was a chance, right? Alas, no.
October 3, 2015
Light and fluffy but interesting sf that wasn't just an excuse for the romance. Hot sex as always. Some angst but not a ton, lots of near-death, heart aching for the one I love kind of stuff. Yummy. The nunette was a bit much as was the too-perfect family but it was still wonderful. 4.5 rounded up to five because it just made me feel good.
December 31, 2013
3.5 rounded up to 4.
Not bad. It's darker than what I'm used to from this author. It still had funny parts but the humor was quieter. Less laugh out loud funny. Not my favorite from this author but a pretty good book overall.
July 12, 2012
An overall fun and enjoyable m/m sci-fi romance that’s set a hundred years in the future. The U.S. has been split between Red and Blue states, and crossing borders has all the big issues of crossing into a hostile country. Matt, a young extraction agent from Blue Oregon, crosses into Red Idaho to rescue a gay soldier who was captured and is being “re-educated”. To Matt’s chagrin, he realizes his extraction is the same guy who bullied him in high school for being gay. Even with that bitter irony, he finds James, and they struggle to evade Idaho’s militias to get to freedom, and along the way, discover a lot more about themselves as well as about James’s empathic talents, a “gift” implanted by the military, and wanted by everyone.
I know some readers have commented about the usage of acronyms, new technical terms, and dialects that the characters use, but these points didn’t really faze me too much. (I actually dug the term “tech pantry” once I figured out what it was.) I think those points will matter depending on the reader, but overall, it was pretty easy for me to go with the flow on this one.
I liked the MCs a lot. Matt and James had very nice, developing chemistry, and I liked how James’s empathy played into their relationship. I also appreciated the fact that Matt has a physical disability (with one of his legs), but he handled it really well, and still was a good soldier.
My only points off is that Matt, early on in the book, figures out how to shut James out from exploring his mind. It’s never really explained how he can do this, or if anyone else can do this. (No one else mentions this.) As a reader, it was an easy point to let go of and move on, but I did wonder later if this was something special with Matt or if anyone could shut James out if they tried. That point wasn’t really explored in this book. (Maybe it will later?)
There’s a nun character who pops up late in the book who I found irritating, over-the-top, and needless. I think she was there for humor, but I wondered if the author could have written her out completely while still accomplishing everything she needed to do for the story. There also didn’t seem to be any need for customs paperwork to move the nun, where as it was explained earlier that there was this whole process to formally extract people, so I thought that was confusing, and didn’t seem to fit well.
The two main characters and their growingly tender relationship with each other won me out over these points though, so I did overall enjoy the book, and I hear the sequel continues their story more, so I’m looking forward to checking that out next.
I know some readers have commented about the usage of acronyms, new technical terms, and dialects that the characters use, but these points didn’t really faze me too much. (I actually dug the term “tech pantry” once I figured out what it was.) I think those points will matter depending on the reader, but overall, it was pretty easy for me to go with the flow on this one.
I liked the MCs a lot. Matt and James had very nice, developing chemistry, and I liked how James’s empathy played into their relationship. I also appreciated the fact that Matt has a physical disability (with one of his legs), but he handled it really well, and still was a good soldier.
My only points off is that Matt, early on in the book, figures out how to shut James out from exploring his mind. It’s never really explained how he can do this, or if anyone else can do this. (No one else mentions this.) As a reader, it was an easy point to let go of and move on, but I did wonder later if this was something special with Matt or if anyone could shut James out if they tried. That point wasn’t really explored in this book. (Maybe it will later?)
There’s a nun character who pops up late in the book who I found irritating, over-the-top, and needless. I think she was there for humor, but I wondered if the author could have written her out completely while still accomplishing everything she needed to do for the story. There also didn’t seem to be any need for customs paperwork to move the nun, where as it was explained earlier that there was this whole process to formally extract people, so I thought that was confusing, and didn’t seem to fit well.
The two main characters and their growingly tender relationship with each other won me out over these points though, so I did overall enjoy the book, and I hear the sequel continues their story more, so I’m looking forward to checking that out next.
September 25, 2012
4.5 Stars
I was captivated from page one! This was a fun sci-fi story set in the future where the US is split into red and blue states. Tenino brought a humorous spin on political issues that are currently affecting many aspects of our society. I thought it was a brilliant concept. Matt was sent on a mission to extract James from Idaho (a red state) where he was re-educated for being gay.
The balance between the world building and the relationship between Matt and James was perfect. I liked that there was a slow build-up to their relationship. There was still a constant attraction between them and lots of sexual tension.
There were a few issues I had with the book:
1. Too many acronyms. I have a horrible memory and had to keep going back to look up what the story-based acronyms were.
2. Sister Beni - I thought she was a fun twist at first, but then as the story progressed she just annoyed the hell out of me.
3. At times, Tenino's writing was a bit confusing. It wasn't the technical aspects, but rather the way she would describe a situation or concept. She would go off on tangent in the middle of a description. I found myself re-reading passages because I couldn't understand why she had inserted an off-topic sentence.
These problems didn't deter me from the story or my enjoyment of it. There was so much good in this book. I loved the Grandpas, all the tech references, James' enhancements, Miz, basically the entire mission, and the humor, humor, humor.
I really hope there will be a Laslo and Logan story. I thought Logan was adorable.
I was captivated from page one! This was a fun sci-fi story set in the future where the US is split into red and blue states. Tenino brought a humorous spin on political issues that are currently affecting many aspects of our society. I thought it was a brilliant concept. Matt was sent on a mission to extract James from Idaho (a red state) where he was re-educated for being gay.
The balance between the world building and the relationship between Matt and James was perfect. I liked that there was a slow build-up to their relationship. There was still a constant attraction between them and lots of sexual tension.
There were a few issues I had with the book:
1. Too many acronyms. I have a horrible memory and had to keep going back to look up what the story-based acronyms were.
2. Sister Beni - I thought she was a fun twist at first, but then as the story progressed she just annoyed the hell out of me.
3. At times, Tenino's writing was a bit confusing. It wasn't the technical aspects, but rather the way she would describe a situation or concept. She would go off on tangent in the middle of a description. I found myself re-reading passages because I couldn't understand why she had inserted an off-topic sentence.
These problems didn't deter me from the story or my enjoyment of it. There was so much good in this book. I loved the Grandpas, all the tech references, James' enhancements, Miz, basically the entire mission, and the humor, humor, humor.
I really hope there will be a Laslo and Logan story. I thought Logan was adorable.
August 8, 2011
This is one exceptionally entertaining book. Excellent SciFi setting where the USA has split into Red States and Blue States, with all their differences almost comically enhanced. Don't expect a grim social commentary though, this book is just the opposite. It is light, funny, and clever. The relationship between Matt and James well done, full of tension and the sex is hot. The story gets intense a few times, but even then it is funny and clever. Laugh out loud funny. Unless you're from Idaho, maybe.
For some people (not me) this may be over the top. We have a titanium tech pantry leg, a guy with ESP going haywire, a talking horse, a boatload of snippy gay cousins in the Queer Extraction Service Association, and a frustrated nympho nun, to name but a few odd elements you don't usually run across in your standard m/m romance. In retrospect, the genre has obviously been missing out by not including these before.
It looks like the story may be setting up for a sequel. We still don't know who or what has been doing this to James and there is Laslo's promise to get Logan out of Idaho ASAP. I'll be first in line to read that one!
A few minor quibbles, which bring my score to 4.5 stars (rounded up for originality): blowjobs on the run should be a no-no, James' father is too predictably a caricature, and when the author herself indicates that the 'I'm no good for you' mopey thing is a cliche, she should stay away from it altogether. Oh and all the acronyms give me a headache. In ebook land I'd love to have an interactive glossary for all of those.
For some people (not me) this may be over the top. We have a titanium tech pantry leg, a guy with ESP going haywire, a talking horse, a boatload of snippy gay cousins in the Queer Extraction Service Association, and a frustrated nympho nun, to name but a few odd elements you don't usually run across in your standard m/m romance. In retrospect, the genre has obviously been missing out by not including these before.
It looks like the story may be setting up for a sequel. We still don't know who or what has been doing this to James and there is Laslo's promise to get Logan out of Idaho ASAP. I'll be first in line to read that one!
A few minor quibbles, which bring my score to 4.5 stars (rounded up for originality): blowjobs on the run should be a no-no, James' father is too predictably a caricature, and when the author herself indicates that the 'I'm no good for you' mopey thing is a cliche, she should stay away from it altogether. Oh and all the acronyms give me a headache. In ebook land I'd love to have an interactive glossary for all of those.
August 13, 2011
I really didn’t expect to enjoy this story as much as I did. I kept seeing it and would pass it by when I read the information on it. Then I saw a review from a friend here on Goodreads who rated it 5 stars.
It was then I considered maybe I should take a look at it again.
I still figured I wouldn’t enjoy it as one it is a futuristic book and the other is I am Canadian and reading about USA being separated and fighting wasn’t something I thought I would enjoy in a m/m romance story.
But in saying that I was really shocked at how much I enjoyed the book, it kept me interested and I wanted to know what was going to happen next. I liked both characters the sex scenes were hot, the story was comical at times and made me laugh out loud.
It is a well written book and the way the author wrote the book to be funny, cleaver and a bit over the top at times it was a great read. It was not to confusing for a futuristic novel, I am hoping for a sequel.
It was then I considered maybe I should take a look at it again.
I still figured I wouldn’t enjoy it as one it is a futuristic book and the other is I am Canadian and reading about USA being separated and fighting wasn’t something I thought I would enjoy in a m/m romance story.
But in saying that I was really shocked at how much I enjoyed the book, it kept me interested and I wanted to know what was going to happen next. I liked both characters the sex scenes were hot, the story was comical at times and made me laugh out loud.
It is a well written book and the way the author wrote the book to be funny, cleaver and a bit over the top at times it was a great read. It was not to confusing for a futuristic novel, I am hoping for a sequel.
December 26, 2013
3.75 stars...definitely somewhere in the 3-4 stars range
Good story, interesting world in a Sci-fi/ dystopian way. There were times where the story was inundated with too many secondary characters - Matt has about fifty-eleventy cousins I couldn't keep up with them all. I stopped caring after having the third one step on the scene.
Ugh to Beni...I don't like her. I thought I might in the beginning but that horny nun got on my nerves.
Matt and James - good characters with good depth. I liked their story, the slow burn quality to their relationship. And major props to having a MC with a prosthetic leg. Plus I am not a fan of psychics in my fiction but I liked James in this instance. His powers are cool.
I thought the red and blue states having a civil war and separating in the future...that was genius!
Just a lot of words to wade through to get to the end. Man did that feel like a super long story.
Good story, interesting world in a Sci-fi/ dystopian way. There were times where the story was inundated with too many secondary characters - Matt has about fifty-eleventy cousins I couldn't keep up with them all. I stopped caring after having the third one step on the scene.
Ugh to Beni...I don't like her. I thought I might in the beginning but that horny nun got on my nerves.
Matt and James - good characters with good depth. I liked their story, the slow burn quality to their relationship. And major props to having a MC with a prosthetic leg. Plus I am not a fan of psychics in my fiction but I liked James in this instance. His powers are cool.
I thought the red and blue states having a civil war and separating in the future...that was genius!
Just a lot of words to wade through to get to the end. Man did that feel like a super long story.
August 26, 2016
This book was a real struggle for me, I was never able to connect to the MC’s nor could I get involved with the story. The first half of the book was slow and difficult to follow because I couldn’t keep my mind from wondering. I need a story that engages me, this one didn’t, I need romance in the m/m books I read, there wasn’t any, I love when humor is added but in this one the humor fell flat. When the MC’s finally hook up I had hoped things would turn around but even that felt like something was missing. I ended up not caring how the story ends just that it does.
I thought this book fell short in a lot of places but that won’t stop me from reading other books from this author, the previous book I read by her was excellent. I’m so disappointed in this one.
I thought this book fell short in a lot of places but that won’t stop me from reading other books from this author, the previous book I read by her was excellent. I’m so disappointed in this one.
December 3, 2011
What didn't I love about this book? Okay, some of the high-tech words threw me off, but that's it! Enjoyed the futuristic look at a divided United States, loooved Matt & James (all that delicious tension, the chemistry was smoking hot!), and James mutant brain is awesome. Giggled in quite a few places (the 'think I swallowed a bug' was seriously an lol moment...good thing I was all by myself at the time and noone could laugh at me!) and who didn't get a kick out of the horse and nympho nun?
So glad this is the first in a series so I can visit these characters (plus new ones!) and world again!
So glad this is the first in a series so I can visit these characters (plus new ones!) and world again!
October 19, 2011
The year is 2111 and Matt Tennimore works for the Queer Extraction Services Association in the Blue States of America. He has been called in for an assignment: rescue a captured Blue soldier who is stuck in Idaho, over in the Red States. In 2056, the United States had been divided into two parts following a civil war - Red and Blue. The cultures of the two regions are distinctly different, following the basic political ideology we have today, but taken to the extreme. Matt is surprised to find that the soldier he is being sent to retrieve is former classmate (and former crush) James Ayala.
One problem the men face is that James was subject to a military experiment and implanted with some sort of unknown devices that is affecting his brain. It allows James to read brain waves from others that most people can not access or interpret, giving him an empathic ability to sense how someone is feeling or what they are intending.
This book combines three elements interwoven in the story. The first is the futuristic tale of a country divided along political lines. To be honest, this is the part of the book I struggled with the most. I found a lot of the exposition slowed the story down for me, especially in the beginning when there was a lot of background information all at once.
The second element to the book is the road trip story as James and Matt race to get out of Idaho and back to Oregon. This is one of my favorite tropes and I thought it was done very well here. Lots of excitement that kept this story moving without just being a string of life-threatening situations one after another. There was a lot of time to get to know James and Matt and I really enjoyed the thrill of following their attempt to escape. I also think this is an area where the world-building really worked. Watching James's mental talents develop as he learned how to use his implant was exciting, especially his mental telepathy with Matt and his ability to read and track the enemy. And I loved the friends they met along the way, especially Miz the "talking" horse and Beni the horny nun. (Leading to my favorite line of the book, "We need someone to fuck the nun.")
At its heart, 18% Gray is really a love story though between Matt and James. I loved Matt's voice right from the start in the prologue and he and James interacted so well together. It was interesting to see how James's implant affected their relationship dynamic.
There was lot happening in this book and at times it felt like a bit too much to keep track of. But I loved the story of James and Matt and I really enjoyed the humor interwoven throughout. The road trip plot really worked for me, as did the part about the implant and how it affected both men. Despite the slower start, I would definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading more by this author.
This is an abbreviated version of my review. Full review is available on my blog Joyfully Jay.
One problem the men face is that James was subject to a military experiment and implanted with some sort of unknown devices that is affecting his brain. It allows James to read brain waves from others that most people can not access or interpret, giving him an empathic ability to sense how someone is feeling or what they are intending.
This book combines three elements interwoven in the story. The first is the futuristic tale of a country divided along political lines. To be honest, this is the part of the book I struggled with the most. I found a lot of the exposition slowed the story down for me, especially in the beginning when there was a lot of background information all at once.
The second element to the book is the road trip story as James and Matt race to get out of Idaho and back to Oregon. This is one of my favorite tropes and I thought it was done very well here. Lots of excitement that kept this story moving without just being a string of life-threatening situations one after another. There was a lot of time to get to know James and Matt and I really enjoyed the thrill of following their attempt to escape. I also think this is an area where the world-building really worked. Watching James's mental talents develop as he learned how to use his implant was exciting, especially his mental telepathy with Matt and his ability to read and track the enemy. And I loved the friends they met along the way, especially Miz the "talking" horse and Beni the horny nun. (Leading to my favorite line of the book, "We need someone to fuck the nun.")
At its heart, 18% Gray is really a love story though between Matt and James. I loved Matt's voice right from the start in the prologue and he and James interacted so well together. It was interesting to see how James's implant affected their relationship dynamic.
There was lot happening in this book and at times it felt like a bit too much to keep track of. But I loved the story of James and Matt and I really enjoyed the humor interwoven throughout. The road trip plot really worked for me, as did the part about the implant and how it affected both men. Despite the slower start, I would definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading more by this author.
This is an abbreviated version of my review. Full review is available on my blog Joyfully Jay.
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