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Free Men #1
The Slave
Freedom is only an illusion.
At twenty-seven, Tamelik has been a slave more than half his life. Submissive by nature, he can’t help but fall in love with the master who treats him kindly.
When the mistress walks out, Tam dares to hope his love will be enough.
Then he’s ordered to purchase another slave.
He wants to hate Kai for being unruly and ungrateful. For being of the same race as the men who murdered his family. For being his eventual replacement in their master’s bed. But it’s hard to hate a man who cries himself to sleep, flinches at the slightest touch, and blushes beautifully when he’s kissed.
64,000 words.
THE FREE MEN SERIES:
THE SLAVE
THE SOLDIER
THE MASTER
At twenty-seven, Tamelik has been a slave more than half his life. Submissive by nature, he can’t help but fall in love with the master who treats him kindly.
When the mistress walks out, Tam dares to hope his love will be enough.
Then he’s ordered to purchase another slave.
He wants to hate Kai for being unruly and ungrateful. For being of the same race as the men who murdered his family. For being his eventual replacement in their master’s bed. But it’s hard to hate a man who cries himself to sleep, flinches at the slightest touch, and blushes beautifully when he’s kissed.
64,000 words.
THE FREE MEN SERIES:
THE SLAVE
THE SOLDIER
THE MASTER
180 pages, ebook
First published October 27, 2014
508 people are currently reading
1549 people want to read
About the author
Kate Aaron
36 books338 followersBorn in Liverpool, Kate Aaron is a bestselling author of the #1 LGBT romances What He Wants, Ace, The Slave, and other works.
Kate swapped the North West for the Midwest in October 2015 and married award-winning author AJ Rose. Together they plan to take over the world.
Kate swapped the North West for the Midwest in October 2015 and married award-winning author AJ Rose. Together they plan to take over the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 282 reviews
September 17, 2017
Edited after taking a breather and making sure I wasn't actually dead:
I have decided to review it first before I go on to read the next part, so that I don't forget the events or my feelings for them at the end.
This book was EPIC, really, tremendously epic. After reading the first paragraph, I knew I was hooked and will not rest until I finish it. And that's what happened actually, too. I was deeply engrossed in the completely different characters and dynamics of this triad: Master, Tam and Kai. They were super strong individuals yet vulnerable when it came to their feelings for each other. The way the author took the time to build the world around them in our minds, almost making me feel as if this was happening right alongside my reading somewhere in an alternate universe, was a major tenterhook for my interest (insanity, rather).
It was such a detailed, step-by-step process of the three of them coming together with Kai being the stimuli, and I was enamored to see Tam getting his wishes fulfilled at long last. Their Master needed happiness and lightness in his life, and somehow, Kai's appearance triggered that instinct in their Master to want something for himself. Kai was drifting along, mindlessly doing the tasks assigned to him by his army while struggling under the baseless nature of the war itself, and it warmed my heart to see him enjoy the freedom he actually got after being bought as a slave, even though he probably still doesn't realise it.
In a world being destroyed by war, it was truly wonderful seeing desperate souls find comfort and love with each other. I was crying, cheering, worrying, scolding and laughing, doing something or the other all through the book, not having a moment's rest. But as the cliffhanger was one that totally took away my breath and sleep and now won't let me rest until I start the second book, I would like to finish my review here, before I let my fear for knowing the aftermath overwhelm me and prohibit me from getting sucked into the tornado that just struck their happy bubble and sleep and get charged to tackle the storm that has risen.
Review right after finishing:
Oh my goodness! I need to finish the trilogy before I can come to write a review. The only thing I can say is that it has me on edge, wanting to go read what happens next.
I have decided to review it first before I go on to read the next part, so that I don't forget the events or my feelings for them at the end.
This book was EPIC, really, tremendously epic. After reading the first paragraph, I knew I was hooked and will not rest until I finish it. And that's what happened actually, too. I was deeply engrossed in the completely different characters and dynamics of this triad: Master, Tam and Kai. They were super strong individuals yet vulnerable when it came to their feelings for each other. The way the author took the time to build the world around them in our minds, almost making me feel as if this was happening right alongside my reading somewhere in an alternate universe, was a major tenterhook for my interest (insanity, rather).
It was such a detailed, step-by-step process of the three of them coming together with Kai being the stimuli, and I was enamored to see Tam getting his wishes fulfilled at long last. Their Master needed happiness and lightness in his life, and somehow, Kai's appearance triggered that instinct in their Master to want something for himself. Kai was drifting along, mindlessly doing the tasks assigned to him by his army while struggling under the baseless nature of the war itself, and it warmed my heart to see him enjoy the freedom he actually got after being bought as a slave, even though he probably still doesn't realise it.
In a world being destroyed by war, it was truly wonderful seeing desperate souls find comfort and love with each other. I was crying, cheering, worrying, scolding and laughing, doing something or the other all through the book, not having a moment's rest. But as the cliffhanger was one that totally took away my breath and sleep and now won't let me rest until I start the second book, I would like to finish my review here, before I let my fear for knowing the aftermath overwhelm me and prohibit me from getting sucked into the tornado that just struck their happy bubble and sleep and get charged to tackle the storm that has risen.
Review right after finishing:
Oh my goodness! I need to finish the trilogy before I can come to write a review. The only thing I can say is that it has me on edge, wanting to go read what happens next.
September 18, 2016
Written November 17, 2014
4 Stars - Delicate, beautiful and tender - a sweetly soft "three might make it" story.
Book #1
A fantasy / historical slave story!?! ~ I couldn't resist the temptation after reading a few great ARC reviews then in October. I needed to read it.
If you like historical fairy-tale-like stories
It may not sound as me (chicken scared Ingela) but I like (love) fairy tales, and this M/M genre with historical slave fantasy romances are often also a 'kind' of an oldish, often hard and tough, fairy tale. The kind of slave-stories as in the end also are very romantic, about Master with hearts, genuine love and of course a grand end.
...And I got exactly mostly all that here included a wonderful and lovely threesome romance. A good one!!
***********************************************
Tam 27 has been a slave more than half his life. For six glorious months, he and his beloved Master get to be together. Then Tam is ordered to purchase another pleasure-slave....
Tam wants to hate Kai for being unruly and ungrateful. For being of the same race as the men who murdered his family. For being his eventual replacement in their master’s bed. ~ But it’s hard to hate a man who cries himself to sleep, flinches at the slightest touch, and blushes beautifully when he’s kissed.
***********************************************
Jeez, these three male characters are all interesting characters individually and OMG they were just stunning beautiful together.
I must admit that I was a bit nervous in the beggining but The Slave is very well told and my nervousness released each after when I realized how 'pleasant' it would be. It was like traveling on fluffy, also steaming hot, but always soft and nice, pink clouds. So happens suddenly everything at once, and I got nervous again.
Love with two people at once, possible for you?
The Slave was in all ways a delicate, beautiful and tender love story. Three men: a Master, a pleasure slave and a new slave - an enslaved warrior. Could these three very different characters be a hot threesome? Oh yes, there was caution, doubt, new strange feelings but also great patience and a grand reward of all the waiting. The steam level was high... yummy high.
Tam & Kai & Master
Also a big plus to three interesting and diverse characters that actually surprised me sometimes. - The author gave some 'let to know space' to all three. I felt that I actually understood most of their actions. I could see both good and less good qualities to them all, and that's always a good sign for a good
***********************************************
Partly predictably perhaps, two plus one gets the threesome of course, but in many ways not. The Slave is a story to like, in many ways a 'feel good' read but alsa a quite surprisingly and abrupt end.
This will be a series, Free Men.
I'm still a bit shaken about how this first one ended. ~ It's just to download the next part #2 - The Soldier as soon I'm back home from my lazy beach life again.
Sincerely recommended for lovers of romantic "M/M fairy tales"...and you who also want to read a great new "more-than-one-book" story.
I LIKE - heartwarming sweet = a Ingela story
********
Some other goodies to read in this "M/M slave genre":
4 Stars - Delicate, beautiful and tender - a sweetly soft "three might make it" story.
Book #1
A fantasy / historical slave story!?! ~ I couldn't resist the temptation after reading a few great ARC reviews then in October. I needed to read it.
If you like historical fairy-tale-like stories
It may not sound as me (chicken scared Ingela) but I like (love) fairy tales, and this M/M genre with historical slave fantasy romances are often also a 'kind' of an oldish, often hard and tough, fairy tale. The kind of slave-stories as in the end also are very romantic, about Master with hearts, genuine love and of course a grand end.
...And I got exactly mostly all that here included a wonderful and lovely threesome romance. A good one!!
***********************************************
Tam 27 has been a slave more than half his life. For six glorious months, he and his beloved Master get to be together. Then Tam is ordered to purchase another pleasure-slave....
Tam wants to hate Kai for being unruly and ungrateful. For being of the same race as the men who murdered his family. For being his eventual replacement in their master’s bed. ~ But it’s hard to hate a man who cries himself to sleep, flinches at the slightest touch, and blushes beautifully when he’s kissed.
‘His next wirds werefor me alone, whispered directly inte the shell of my ear. “You picked him, Tammy. Now make him yours.”
***********************************************
Jeez, these three male characters are all interesting characters individually and OMG they were just stunning beautiful together.
I must admit that I was a bit nervous in the beggining but The Slave is very well told and my nervousness released each after when I realized how 'pleasant' it would be. It was like traveling on fluffy, also steaming hot, but always soft and nice, pink clouds. So happens suddenly everything at once, and I got nervous again.
Love with two people at once, possible for you?
The Slave was in all ways a delicate, beautiful and tender love story. Three men: a Master, a pleasure slave and a new slave - an enslaved warrior. Could these three very different characters be a hot threesome? Oh yes, there was caution, doubt, new strange feelings but also great patience and a grand reward of all the waiting. The steam level was high... yummy high.
“I'm thinking you how hot you two are together.”
(...)
“Watching the two of you, I didn't care about the rest of it—who feels what for whom. I never wanted you to stop.”
Tam & Kai & Master
Also a big plus to three interesting and diverse characters that actually surprised me sometimes. - The author gave some 'let to know space' to all three. I felt that I actually understood most of their actions. I could see both good and less good qualities to them all, and that's always a good sign for a good
***********************************************
Partly predictably perhaps, two plus one gets the threesome of course, but in many ways not. The Slave is a story to like, in many ways a 'feel good' read but alsa a quite surprisingly and abrupt end.
This will be a series, Free Men.
I'm still a bit shaken about how this first one ended. ~ It's just to download the next part #2 - The Soldier as soon I'm back home from my lazy beach life again.
Sincerely recommended for lovers of romantic "M/M fairy tales"...and you who also want to read a great new "more-than-one-book" story. I LIKE - heartwarming sweet = a Ingela story
********
Some other goodies to read in this "M/M slave genre":
December 20, 2020
3.5 Stars
Anyone who knows me knows I typically don’t do ménage, and slave fics aren’t high on the list either. However, I’ve had this on my TBR shelf glaring at me for forever, and I finally took the plunge.
This definitely has its merits. If you’re up for a tantalizing slow burn as Tam the slave brings home a new member for the Master’s household, showing Kai all the ways and rules, then I think many will love this.
Beware a lot of existential contemplation about being a slave, embracing slavery, resisting slavery, the loss of free will, what is truly freedom, love and fidelity but also the idea that under a very kind master, life can be oh so fulfilling, pleasurable, and wonderful despite the invisible barriers that keep these three men from truly being together… for now. Know that this also ends on a cliffhanger, where the next two books are in the POV of Kai, and subsequently the Master, before we can have a true happy ending.
Overall, I’m glad I checked this off my list. There were many wonderful aspects to this despite the above noted tropes not being close favorites. It remains to be seen if I have the desire or curiosity enough to continue but regardless, if you want an erotic exploration and undoing then this will not disappoint!
Anyone who knows me knows I typically don’t do ménage, and slave fics aren’t high on the list either. However, I’ve had this on my TBR shelf glaring at me for forever, and I finally took the plunge.
This definitely has its merits. If you’re up for a tantalizing slow burn as Tam the slave brings home a new member for the Master’s household, showing Kai all the ways and rules, then I think many will love this.
Beware a lot of existential contemplation about being a slave, embracing slavery, resisting slavery, the loss of free will, what is truly freedom, love and fidelity but also the idea that under a very kind master, life can be oh so fulfilling, pleasurable, and wonderful despite the invisible barriers that keep these three men from truly being together… for now. Know that this also ends on a cliffhanger, where the next two books are in the POV of Kai, and subsequently the Master, before we can have a true happy ending.
Overall, I’m glad I checked this off my list. There were many wonderful aspects to this despite the above noted tropes not being close favorites. It remains to be seen if I have the desire or curiosity enough to continue but regardless, if you want an erotic exploration and undoing then this will not disappoint!
February 17, 2018
4 stars
This was a great surprise. It's the first book in this series and it's still free on Amazon.
The writing surprised me. I really enjoyed it. This book felt light and easy to read. I'm NOT a fan of DOM and SUB couples, actually we have a Master here and two slaves. But it's fantasy and the sex slaves aren't what we usually read about. Here Tam really loves his Master and Kai falls for Tam.
How these 3 men connected, it really left me wanting for more. Well Kai and Tam connected a lot, and their Master knew which buttons to push to bring them together.
I thought I got enough of MMM, but this one was super HOT, and I can't wait to read the next books. It ends with a cliffhanger and I am dying to find out what Kai was up to. I really hope he'll not hurt Tam. What they had felt special and I'm really hoping to get a HEA here.
This was a great surprise. It's the first book in this series and it's still free on Amazon.
The writing surprised me. I really enjoyed it. This book felt light and easy to read. I'm NOT a fan of DOM and SUB couples, actually we have a Master here and two slaves. But it's fantasy and the sex slaves aren't what we usually read about. Here Tam really loves his Master and Kai falls for Tam.
How these 3 men connected, it really left me wanting for more. Well Kai and Tam connected a lot, and their Master knew which buttons to push to bring them together.
I thought I got enough of MMM, but this one was super HOT, and I can't wait to read the next books. It ends with a cliffhanger and I am dying to find out what Kai was up to. I really hope he'll not hurt Tam. What they had felt special and I'm really hoping to get a HEA here.
April 17, 2016
Nothing is inviolate in a world at war.
Tam is the beautiful, charming and obedient slave. He was given a task and he fulfilled, now he has to live with his choice. Even when strained, he never regrets his decision.
Kai is the captured warrior who's presence ignites the crowd's desire to break him by the whatever means necessary--and with great pleasure. His auction price escalates quickly. His journey is to find a place within Master's house.
Master is the philosopher king example. One that proves that the system can work, whereas in reality it is flawed with no safety measures. A leader who puts the wellbeing of those who are under his care first.
Very Romantic viewpoint espoused with the lushness and the ending that seems straight out of a Delacroix painting. And what an ending. It will certainly leave a few readers wondering and a few more disgruntled, but honestly, it fits with the situation and the theme.
A weird quirk or two regarding the time period which seemed nineteenth century, but then having references to military fatigues instead of uniforms and explosives which while developed in the mid-nineteenth century weren't used in the manner depicted until later.
3.5 Stars
Favorite quote:
Tam is the beautiful, charming and obedient slave. He was given a task and he fulfilled, now he has to live with his choice. Even when strained, he never regrets his decision.
Kai is the captured warrior who's presence ignites the crowd's desire to break him by the whatever means necessary--and with great pleasure. His auction price escalates quickly. His journey is to find a place within Master's house.
Master is the philosopher king example. One that proves that the system can work, whereas in reality it is flawed with no safety measures. A leader who puts the wellbeing of those who are under his care first.
Very Romantic viewpoint espoused with the lushness and the ending that seems straight out of a Delacroix painting. And what an ending. It will certainly leave a few readers wondering and a few more disgruntled, but honestly, it fits with the situation and the theme.
A weird quirk or two regarding the time period which seemed nineteenth century, but then having references to military fatigues instead of uniforms and explosives which while developed in the mid-nineteenth century weren't used in the manner depicted until later.
3.5 Stars
Favorite quote:
I smiled gently. “Yes, you. You’re the only thing I ever chose for myself.”
October 27, 2014
☆ 5 HUGE STARS from Me & Macky for this EXCELLENT book from Kate Aaron ☆
BONUS SCENE ~> http://bit.ly/1sjYrHC
Oh. My. God!!! Did I do it again Macky? This book was stunning and I could effuse for hours on how fabulous it is! Haha… actually I think we did!
BONUS SCENE ~> http://bit.ly/1sjYrHC
Oh. My. God!!! Did I do it again Macky? This book was stunning and I could effuse for hours on how fabulous it is! Haha… actually I think we did!
Macky: Hahaha...you bloody know you did Monique! How could I resist when you wafted the premise of pleasure slaves and masters under my nose! Like candy to a baby...You know me soooo well! Looks like I'm going to be effusing with you...
Monique: You know it!!! The promise of the blurb was something I just couldn’t resist and as soon as I started reading… well, Kate Aaron pulled me into this story effortlessly, the writing just flowed. I don’t know about you, but I’m in awe of how some authors have the ability to do that, as well as create characters that truly come to life in your imagination, whether through their impassioned personalities or because of the emotional connection an author manages to evoke… How do some authors ...get that? ...do that? I find it fascinating, I mean, it’s all letters on a page, a combination of words, and Kate Aaron does just that and manages to weave it into something magical! I was totally caught up in this world and the lives of these three men, I found it all incredibly moving.
Macky: I agree my friend, I was swept up by the story in exactly the same way and like you it was the style of Kate Aaron's beautiful writing that pulled me in; not just the fact that the idea of this spoke to me as soon as I read the blurb. Then to find that instant connection with the characters was just the icing on the cake. I know most people roll their eyes at Insta love but it was kind of that way for me. I feel a gush coming on! Hahaha....over to you Monique...
Monique: Effusing or gushing, I’m right there with you… because I loved this! It’s one of those books that captivated me from the very first page, and for me that was down to the incredibly gentle and caring voice of Tam, almost hypnotic in a sense that I was totally drawn in, not having the slightest inclination to look away. Initially for me he comes across as melancholy character, unemotional in a way that lacks passion, it’s as if it’s not his place to feel that particular emotion, distancing himself on the surface, but inside his heart is so full of love. And that’s what I liked so much about this book Macky, because as we take this journey with Tam we are allowed to see beneath that surface, until what he feels for not only The Master but also Kai is so powerful and intense it took my breath away.
Macky: Aww...I loved Tam, Monique, practically from the second he started to tell us his story I knew I was going to fall in love with this tale. You just know don't you when there's an instant connection to a character and I felt it immediately with Tam, then that connection followed through to Kai, the captured soldier, sold into slavery and finally: Master, the man who links all of them together. I think Kate gave them incredible presence; which was why I became totally invested in their journey together. Tam being the pivotal character in this book as we see it through his eyes but that didn't lessen the feelings I had for each of them as we got to know them better over the course of the book.
You can check out the rest of our review over on the blog...http://bit.ly/1sjYrHC
October 30, 2014
I'm drained.... and speechless. Need the 2nd book right the fuck now!
--------
OMG... I loved this book, it just blew my mind and had my heart pounding. After finishing I felt kind of lost, luckily Kate’s 2nd book of the series came out on the same day.
Tam is a lovely character. He’s so pure and innocent, just beautiful inside and out. He lives with his master, an underlord in a fantasy world that orbits two suns.
Master isn’t cruel or brutal, he doesn’t abuse or humiliate Tam, his pleasure-slave. Master cares for him, protects him against a world of war outside of his sheltered compound. He never verbally expresses his feelings but I’m certain he loves Tam.
When Master sends Tam to the slave market to buy another pleasure-slave, Tam chooses Kai, a former Granthian soldier. He immediately knows that the man who belongs to the same race as the men who murdered his family would be lost without him and condemned to death. So Tam purchases Kai and brings him home to his master.
What follows is a lovely tale of mistrust growing to friendship, and friendship growing to love. Kai and Tam are so cute together, it is just wonderful to watch them getting closer and their feelings getting stronger.
Beyond a doubt master is the most intriguing character of the story. On the one hand he remains mysterious - I would have given anything to find out why he is so determined to keep Kai in Tam’s life - on the other hand he is so tender and affectionate, I just fell for him head over heels.
When the three of them are together it’s both heartbreakingly tender and damn hot! Those guys just left me breathless… I never knew that brushing hair could be so erotic. *sigh*
The Slave is woven into a pattern that is complete fantasy yet somehow utterly believable.The creation of a fantasy world is exquisite and the development of the characters is brilliantly done. It’s captivating, stunning, and devastatingly beautiful, a heartwarming yet gut-wrenching read that brought tears to my eyes, along with some big smiles. I really have no words to describe how much I enjoyed this book, I loved everything about it. Now on to the second book, can't wait to get inside of Kai's head!
June 7, 2015
I loved this book.
The Slave is a very well written fantasy ménage. Tam has lived with Master since his family were killed fifteen years ago. He was meant for the Mistress but it was the Master who always made him feel protected. Master is an underlord and a powerful man in Otiz. The region in unstable and war rages around the zone - the Granthians and Thirskans are tribally opposed. It is the reason Tam ended up in the Cage for auction at twelve, his family murdered before him. Since then, he has been with his master.
The book starts with Tam in charge of buying a new pleasureslave, but he is confused. Tam wants to be Master's only pleasureslave, but he won't argue with his orders, besides it is nice to be given the responsibility by Master to do the bidding. Ordinarily they would buy someone around the age he was when he was offered up for auction - the younger the slave the more malleable and easy to train. But something about the next lot to stride into the Cage, and the men talking about all the things they would like to do to break him, has Tam bidding, despite the slave appearing only five or so years younger than twenty seven year old Tam.
What I loved, loved, loved (yes, I will abuse that word in this review) - L.O.V.E.D.
Great characters - every single one of them. Nicely fleshed out, although I know more is coming, and I can't wait. Loved, loved, loved them - the sweet Tam, how I adored Tam. Caring and people-manoeuvring Master, he grows on you so much. Feisty but edgy Kai, who grows so much as the book progresses. I could not get enough of them. All of them. They compliment each other well. I am not always good with books that aren't standalone but this trilogy is looking fantastic from where I stand after book #1. Bring on The Soldier.
Holy freaking shizemballs! Smokin' hot sex scenes that got better and better and better as the book progressed. I do love a ménage... but this wasn't stock standard. It was extra spicy and it built. There was frustration, confusion, camaraderie, some unspoken feelings and a perfectly flawed synchronicity to it all that worked superbly.
There's a very interesting plot. This book offers you something different. Subtle world building that I am ready to have expanded upon in the following books. As I read I felt like I was in Ortiz, in the compound outside the city on he edge of the desert, twin suns blazing down during the day, cold in the evenings. Knowing there was more outside but not needing to be a part of it - a lot like Tam. But, like Kai, I felt the itch to do more, even though I know more is not always going to be nice. Then, like Master, I like the idea of making my piece of the world a better place for those who are special to me. So I simply 'got' the three characters. I experienced this world through their eyes, although Master is a little (purposefully)enigmatic.
This is a well paced book which built to, dare I say it, da, da, da...a cliff hanger. Gah! I'll put on my big girl undies and deal - it appears Ms Aaron has the books coming out in fairly rapid succession, so that helps. Highly recommended for fantasy and ménage lovers.
In depth NSFW 18+ review at http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
The Slave is a very well written fantasy ménage. Tam has lived with Master since his family were killed fifteen years ago. He was meant for the Mistress but it was the Master who always made him feel protected. Master is an underlord and a powerful man in Otiz. The region in unstable and war rages around the zone - the Granthians and Thirskans are tribally opposed. It is the reason Tam ended up in the Cage for auction at twelve, his family murdered before him. Since then, he has been with his master.
The book starts with Tam in charge of buying a new pleasureslave, but he is confused. Tam wants to be Master's only pleasureslave, but he won't argue with his orders, besides it is nice to be given the responsibility by Master to do the bidding. Ordinarily they would buy someone around the age he was when he was offered up for auction - the younger the slave the more malleable and easy to train. But something about the next lot to stride into the Cage, and the men talking about all the things they would like to do to break him, has Tam bidding, despite the slave appearing only five or so years younger than twenty seven year old Tam.
What I loved, loved, loved (yes, I will abuse that word in this review) - L.O.V.E.D.
Great characters - every single one of them. Nicely fleshed out, although I know more is coming, and I can't wait. Loved, loved, loved them - the sweet Tam, how I adored Tam. Caring and people-manoeuvring Master, he grows on you so much. Feisty but edgy Kai, who grows so much as the book progresses. I could not get enough of them. All of them. They compliment each other well. I am not always good with books that aren't standalone but this trilogy is looking fantastic from where I stand after book #1. Bring on The Soldier.
Holy freaking shizemballs! Smokin' hot sex scenes that got better and better and better as the book progressed. I do love a ménage... but this wasn't stock standard. It was extra spicy and it built. There was frustration, confusion, camaraderie, some unspoken feelings and a perfectly flawed synchronicity to it all that worked superbly.
There's a very interesting plot. This book offers you something different. Subtle world building that I am ready to have expanded upon in the following books. As I read I felt like I was in Ortiz, in the compound outside the city on he edge of the desert, twin suns blazing down during the day, cold in the evenings. Knowing there was more outside but not needing to be a part of it - a lot like Tam. But, like Kai, I felt the itch to do more, even though I know more is not always going to be nice. Then, like Master, I like the idea of making my piece of the world a better place for those who are special to me. So I simply 'got' the three characters. I experienced this world through their eyes, although Master is a little (purposefully)enigmatic.
This is a well paced book which built to, dare I say it, da, da, da...a cliff hanger. Gah! I'll put on my big girl undies and deal - it appears Ms Aaron has the books coming out in fairly rapid succession, so that helps. Highly recommended for fantasy and ménage lovers.
In depth NSFW 18+ review at http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
October 19, 2014
Note: the author is a good friend, I beta'd this and received a final copy from the author.
This one is for me absolutely on the same level as What He Wants and Ace. Kate never ceases to astonish me with her ability to take completely different backgrounds and characters and run with them to create brilliantly original and very fresh stories. It is also a pleasure to read about real human beings instead of tired stereotypes, and as always she has created just that here.
Recommended for everyone who likes to step outside of the usual boxes.
This one is for me absolutely on the same level as What He Wants and Ace. Kate never ceases to astonish me with her ability to take completely different backgrounds and characters and run with them to create brilliantly original and very fresh stories. It is also a pleasure to read about real human beings instead of tired stereotypes, and as always she has created just that here.
Recommended for everyone who likes to step outside of the usual boxes.
September 7, 2022
September 2022 - I for some reason didn't get to read
the rest of the series when I did this one so I decided to
start from the beginning.
......................................................................................................................................
Overall book rating: 4.5
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3.5
I wanted to stay wrapped up in my own little bubble after this.
I actually stopped reading with 16 pages left, because I didn’t want to deal with what I knew was about to happen. I didn’t want their little “happy” bubble to burst. But I guess I couldn’t keep reality at bay much longer and so...I finished it.
I just wanted the three of them, Master and slaves, though so much more on so many levels without them even completely understanding it, to be safely locked up forever. Where no one could hurt them or get to them.
I loved this story. I dearly love Tam and I’m starting to love Kai just as much. “Master” was already high on my loveable character list the moment I got to understand how he treats his Tam, ever since he was a scared little boy. With Kai, it just grew.
To me, this was touching. To me, there is more than meets the eye, and I loved it. I LOVE it. And I’m so sad. Brilliant.
July 28, 2015
I loved the complicated nature of the relationship between the three men. The author doesn't ignore the reality of the notion of consent within the reality of slavery, but the master and his respect for his slaves made this story for me. I'm looking forward to reading more about these characters.
December 10, 2025
⭐️ 5 stars ⭐️
🎧𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝙼𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑 — 𝙻𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚋𝚢 𝙽𝚢𝚡𝚊𝚛𝚊🎧
//Your breath on my neck feels just like deja vu
A whole fantasy, but still feels so true
It's lust with no mercy, no promises made
But I'll take every moment, baby, before it fades//
I went in blind yet again and regret absolutely nothing. Was I confused about the dynamic between the characters until like 20%? Yep. So the MMM was a pleasant surprise.
A slave who loves his master, but might have some room in his heart for someone else.
The world-building and character backgrounds are still a little vague in this first installment, and the questions are plenty, but I love that each book is in a different POV. I’m so curious who Master really is (and his name!), but I’m loving this slow build-up.
It’s erotic romance first, sort of historical fantasy second. A sexysexy read with lots of different levels in the relationship. Master’s gentle dominance, Kai’s shy inexperience, Tam’s devotion to his Master and new feelings for Kai — all together they were explosive and I can’t wait for more.
The plot kicks in right at the end, so I’m hoping book two will not only give more of this lovely romance, but also some more depth and action.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Violence
- Family death/loss of a loved one (past)
- Master/slaves
- Age gap (circa 15 years?)
- Power imbalance/light dub-con
- MMM
- First times
- Voyeurism/exhibitionism
- Orgasm control/denial
- Edging
- Frotting
- Cliffhanger
🎧𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝙼𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑 — 𝙻𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚋𝚢 𝙽𝚢𝚡𝚊𝚛𝚊🎧
//Your breath on my neck feels just like deja vu
A whole fantasy, but still feels so true
It's lust with no mercy, no promises made
But I'll take every moment, baby, before it fades//
“You picked him, Tammy. Now make him yours.”
I went in blind yet again and regret absolutely nothing. Was I confused about the dynamic between the characters until like 20%? Yep. So the MMM was a pleasant surprise.
I wanted him to touch me because he wanted to touch me, not because he feared the repercussions if he refused.
A slave who loves his master, but might have some room in his heart for someone else.
The world-building and character backgrounds are still a little vague in this first installment, and the questions are plenty, but I love that each book is in a different POV. I’m so curious who Master really is (and his name!), but I’m loving this slow build-up.
“Do you want to see him come?” Master’s voice was thick, purring, his hands teasing my genitals. “He’s so pretty when he comes, Kai. So fucking beautiful. Do you want to see it?”
It’s erotic romance first, sort of historical fantasy second. A sexysexy read with lots of different levels in the relationship. Master’s gentle dominance, Kai’s shy inexperience, Tam’s devotion to his Master and new feelings for Kai — all together they were explosive and I can’t wait for more.
The plot kicks in right at the end, so I’m hoping book two will not only give more of this lovely romance, but also some more depth and action.
“You’re the only thing I ever chose for myself.”
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Violence
- Family death/loss of a loved one (past)
- Master/slaves
- Age gap (circa 15 years?)
- Power imbalance/light dub-con
- MMM
- First times
- Voyeurism/exhibitionism
- Orgasm control/denial
- Edging
- Frotting
- Cliffhanger
October 19, 2018
This is a nice little story about slavery (not BDSM) and threesome in an imaginary world. There is a lot of sex scenes.
So if it's what you like, you'll be very pleased.
So if it's what you like, you'll be very pleased.
April 18, 2016
I bought this on a whim without checking reviews in detail and so - call me naive - I was pretty surprised when this m/m romance turned into a menage. So far I've had a slightly uneasy relationship with m/m/m stories (I tried a couple before) and concluded I simply preferred two-way relationships.
I couldn't have been more wrong. Kate Aaaron's characters convinced me (EASILY) that a menage could work, that three people could fall in love with each other, that they could have a meaningful relationship.
It was awesome to watch how the dynamics of the relationship between the three men unfolded and developed. It was so multifaceted it made my head spin: Tam's love for Master, his early jealousy of Kai, his budding love for Kai, Kai's reluctance to accept his station as a slave and his slow change of mind, Master's patience and understanding, and his tenderness towards both the others. This being by no means a complete list of feelings and emotions running through the book.
What totally blew me away were the absolutely charring, sizzling, mind-blowingly hot sex scenes. Some of the best I have come across. It is true that you get a little bit immune against some of it when you read a lot of m/m. But this....by God - my heart is still pounding!
Why four stars? There was a definite lack of secondary characters. Apart from the cook, a couple of guard and one house slave, I got the impression these guys acted totally in a vacuum ( a very nice one albeit, but ...) until the very end when people suddenly poured into the story from seemingly nowhere. Definitely a minor complaint though.
I can't wait to read Kai's story next.
I couldn't have been more wrong. Kate Aaaron's characters convinced me (EASILY) that a menage could work, that three people could fall in love with each other, that they could have a meaningful relationship.
It was awesome to watch how the dynamics of the relationship between the three men unfolded and developed. It was so multifaceted it made my head spin: Tam's love for Master, his early jealousy of Kai, his budding love for Kai, Kai's reluctance to accept his station as a slave and his slow change of mind, Master's patience and understanding, and his tenderness towards both the others. This being by no means a complete list of feelings and emotions running through the book.
What totally blew me away were the absolutely charring, sizzling, mind-blowingly hot sex scenes. Some of the best I have come across. It is true that you get a little bit immune against some of it when you read a lot of m/m. But this....by God - my heart is still pounding!
Why four stars? There was a definite lack of secondary characters. Apart from the cook, a couple of guard and one house slave, I got the impression these guys acted totally in a vacuum ( a very nice one albeit, but ...) until the very end when people suddenly poured into the story from seemingly nowhere. Definitely a minor complaint though.
I can't wait to read Kai's story next.
Read
November 19, 2014dnf at 65% .
I'm not going to rate this one because it's me, not the book. A couple of years ago I'd probably read this with few problems, despite the fact there is sex sex sex sex sex sex sex sex sex.
But the real issue is I just don't want to read slave fic anymore where there isn't a turnaround realizing that "owning" someone is wrong. Books like The Flesh Cartel etc. just do nothing for me & in this there were all kinds of things that fired off warning bells. There's just no way I can rate & review this fairly, so I'll drop it.
I'm not going to rate this one because it's me, not the book. A couple of years ago I'd probably read this with few problems, despite the fact there is sex sex sex sex sex sex sex sex sex.
But the real issue is I just don't want to read slave fic anymore where there isn't a turnaround realizing that "owning" someone is wrong. Books like The Flesh Cartel etc. just do nothing for me & in this there were all kinds of things that fired off warning bells. There's just no way I can rate & review this fairly, so I'll drop it.
June 4, 2017
*** This is a ménage love story from a different time, a different planet.
A time of devastation, fear, war, brutality, hatred, need, darkness, and shreds of happiness among the ruins.
Master rescues Tam when young and as he grew older, educated, and became a man, Master used him for a pleasure slave, but so much more. Emotions were involved, love developed, and Kai was added to the mix.
Tam is the delicate, submissive man, but has an inner core of strength. The three men become necessary for one another, and we are so torn at the attack, when all is in upheaval.
*** Kate Aaron's writing is superb. We feel like we are there, a part of everything that is happening. The ménage scenes are extremely hot.
You will be mesmerized by this fantasy, Sci-Fi feeling story !
It is crucial to read them all.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=======================
A time of devastation, fear, war, brutality, hatred, need, darkness, and shreds of happiness among the ruins.
Master rescues Tam when young and as he grew older, educated, and became a man, Master used him for a pleasure slave, but so much more. Emotions were involved, love developed, and Kai was added to the mix.
Tam is the delicate, submissive man, but has an inner core of strength. The three men become necessary for one another, and we are so torn at the attack, when all is in upheaval.
*** Kate Aaron's writing is superb. We feel like we are there, a part of everything that is happening. The ménage scenes are extremely hot.
You will be mesmerized by this fantasy, Sci-Fi feeling story !
It is crucial to read them all.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=======================
August 5, 2015
Great fantasy story from Kate featuring Tam and his Master, and the new addition to the household Kai. What happens when all-out conflict knocks on the doorstep of their compound?? I've no idea but Kai's story 'The Soldier' is next up on the kindle. 5 golden stars. Thanks Trouble!!
March 28, 2018
3.5 STARS
The story opens with Kai, a captured enemy soldier, being auctioned off as a pleasure slave. Tam, a pleasure slave himself who's been tasked with purchasing another by his benevolent master, can't bear the thought of Kai being abused, so he bids on him to ensure his safety.
Even if I was expecting something with a bit more edge, I wasn't disappointed...exactly. The writing was above average, full of emotion and heat. The sex sizzled and the tension between Kai and the Master was really well done.
Tam, on the other hand, was too soft of a character for my liking. Not quite a doormat, but... I hate to use his own words against him, but if the shoe fits:
But if low-angst, erotic ménage between three hot guys is your thing, you should definitely read this one. I certainly don't regret it.
"But you love him."Despite the premise, The Slave is not a dark read. In fact, it's quite the opposite; light, fluffy, and angst-free. If I had to categorize it, I'd say it was an m/m/m erotic fantasy built around an idealized slave/master relationship.
"I do."
"Then how could you possibly want anything from me?"
The story opens with Kai, a captured enemy soldier, being auctioned off as a pleasure slave. Tam, a pleasure slave himself who's been tasked with purchasing another by his benevolent master, can't bear the thought of Kai being abused, so he bids on him to ensure his safety.
Even if I was expecting something with a bit more edge, I wasn't disappointed...exactly. The writing was above average, full of emotion and heat. The sex sizzled and the tension between Kai and the Master was really well done.
Tam, on the other hand, was too soft of a character for my liking. Not quite a doormat, but... I hate to use his own words against him, but if the shoe fits:
"I know, I know. I'm pathetic. I know you think that. A slave who likes his bonds, who loves his master - it's pitiful, isn't it?"To be fair, I'm sure that Tam's eventual growth and self-realization are an integral part of future installments of this series, but this book just focused on the bond between Tam and Kai and their Master. It all came too easily in my opinion, and I needed more.
But if low-angst, erotic ménage between three hot guys is your thing, you should definitely read this one. I certainly don't regret it.
June 3, 2016
This story is basically centered around a pleasure slave, his master, and a new slave to their household. It's a M/M/M world here. Which normally wouldn't bother me. I actually got squeamish with the two slaves going girly over the prospect of decorating a room. 'Pink or lime green?' Really? lol
While the story was well-written with some character development, it had too many sex scenes, which watered down the character development, in addition to over-shadowing the plot...whatever that was. It was almost like everything that happened was a pretext for another sex scene...ugh. I started skipping through the book towards the end. Right when the story appeared to pick up with some non-sexual action...WHAM! A cliffhanger ending. WTF?
As I was already ho-humming through the book at the halfway mark, I won't bother with continuing the series.
While the story was well-written with some character development, it had too many sex scenes, which watered down the character development, in addition to over-shadowing the plot...whatever that was. It was almost like everything that happened was a pretext for another sex scene...ugh. I started skipping through the book towards the end. Right when the story appeared to pick up with some non-sexual action...WHAM! A cliffhanger ending. WTF?
As I was already ho-humming through the book at the halfway mark, I won't bother with continuing the series.
November 7, 2014
A review by The Blogger Girls.
There are stories that just suck you right into their world, and this was definitely one of them.
Sweet Tam is in love with his Master and longs for that love in return. He has a pretty good life, as slaves go, and his Master is caring and fair. He has chosen Tam exclusively over the years, even over his wife who left with most of the staff to their other home. Not wanting Tam to be alone as his duties call him away more and more, Master sends Tam to the slave markets to purchase another pleasure slave. Tam is rather conflicted over his Master’s wishes, fearing his is going to be purchasing his replacement, but does as he is told.
Kai is a captured soldier new to slavery. He is a fighter and rather unruly as slaves go. Knowing what could happen if he gets bought by any of the other bidders, Tam makes the purchase, hoping to save Kai in the process. It takes quite some doing to win Kai over, not only to himself, but to his new position as well. Tam has been a slave since he was a young boy. He barely remembers life before living with the Master and feels he has all he could ever want where he is now. Kai struggled a lot with understanding this. How could being a slave be better on any level than being a free man? Well, over time, he learns, just as he learns to love Tam and eventually the Master as well. Kai has also never been with another man. He was in love with his best friend who was killed on the battlefield, but his feelings were never made known. There is a lot at play between these guys, but it was fabulous to see Kai open up and accept Tam as his lover.
On the other side of things, Tam and the Master were sweet and sexy but also rather heart breaking at times. Master is a bit of a big mystery. He obviously cares for Tam, but the bottom line is that they can’t be more than what they are, Master and Slave. But when they are together, there is not much doubt about how everyone feels. He continually pushes Tam and Kai together which confuses Tam. At the same time, Master is extremely patient with regards to Kai, waiting for Kai to warm up to him, showing trust by allowing him freedoms within the walls, etc. It was really enjoyable to watch them all together leading to some pretty steamy scenes. I loved watching the trust and love grow with these two and eventually three.
I was a bit captivated by this story and was extremely thankful that the next one was all lined up and ready to go. It ends on a cliffy, and I couldn’t get the next one opened fast enough. I just had to see how things played out for these guys. This story reads really fast and the world is vividly detailed. If you’re a fan of fantasy stories, slave or not, I definitely recommend you give this gem a try.
ahh-how-about-no
May 9, 2018This was me before :
This is me after I found out it's menage :
Blog : More more more of me here!
May 18, 2019
Review is for the series as a whole rather than the individual books that comprise it.
Gah, sooo damn good! Without a doubt the sweetest 'slave story' I've ever read. *happy sigh*
Gah, sooo damn good! Without a doubt the sweetest 'slave story' I've ever read. *happy sigh*
March 23, 2015
4.5 stars
Brilliant! I was apprehensive about reading this, thinking it would be a run of the mill slave story. Boy was I wrong and I am so glad I picked it up! Told from Tam's POV, this is the story of Master, his pleasure-slave Tam, and the newly acquired Kai. It's a beautiful story set in a fantasy setting. I loved the fact that Master was very kind and affectionate with Tam and Kai. This is a love story and wonderfully written at that. The sex scenes were amazing and actually worked to showcase the developing relationship between the three men. There's action towards the end and the mother of cliffhangers so I'm ending this here and picking up the sequel pronto.
Read this! Highly recommended!
Brilliant! I was apprehensive about reading this, thinking it would be a run of the mill slave story. Boy was I wrong and I am so glad I picked it up! Told from Tam's POV, this is the story of Master, his pleasure-slave Tam, and the newly acquired Kai. It's a beautiful story set in a fantasy setting. I loved the fact that Master was very kind and affectionate with Tam and Kai. This is a love story and wonderfully written at that. The sex scenes were amazing and actually worked to showcase the developing relationship between the three men. There's action towards the end and the mother of cliffhangers so I'm ending this here and picking up the sequel pronto.
Read this! Highly recommended!
July 31, 2016
I thought that I was going to read a typical slave story. Instead, I was pulled into a terrific story where slaves are treated like people and not abused. Master was an excellent character, demanding yet patient and caring. Tam annoyed me at times with his whining but it was understandable. I saw Kai as almost an equal to the Master in private. His character grew a lot once he learned that Master was not going to mistreat him. Kai was my favorite character. Set against the background of a war this story gives it all. Good world building and character development. The only turn off for me is that it ended on a cliffhanger.
November 28, 2014
I absolutely love love love this book!!! OMG I love Tam!!
Want to read
April 17, 2016Kindle freebie 4/17/16 and also at All Romance!
October 30, 2014
À vingt-sept ans, Tamelik a été un esclave pendant plus de la moitié de sa vie, après avoir assisté à l’assassinat de toute sa famille en face de lui alors qu’il était juste un enfant. Naturellement soumis, mais relativement irritable, il ne peut s’empêcher de tomber amoureux de son Maître qui le traite avec bonté.
Les rêves de Tam deviennent vrais lorsque sa maîtresse s’en va, laissant son mari derrière elle. Pendant six mois parfaits, son Maître et lui arrivent à être ensemble. Puis Tam se voit ordonner d’acheter un autre esclave.
Il veut haïr Kai de se montrer indiscipliné et ingrat. D’être de la même race que les hommes qui ont assassiné sa famille. D’être son éventuel remplaçant dans le lit de leur Maître. Mais c’est difficile de haïr un homme qui pleure en s’endormant, sursaute au moindre contact et rougit si joliment lorsqu’il l’embrasse.
Séduire Kai est soudain devenu plus un pari qu’une corvée et, avec les encouragements de son maître, Tam commence à tomber amoureux de son nouveau compagnon. Sauf que… personne ne peut être amoureux de deux personnes à la fois, n’est-ce pas ?
C’est le premier livre que je lis de cet auteur et franchement je ne le regrette pas du tout, au contraire il m’a donné envie de faire plus ample connaissance avec son monde. Ce livre place son univers dans un monde de science fiction mélangé de fantasy. Bien que Tam soit à l’abri dans la demeure de son maître et qu’il ne sache pas trop ce qui se passe en dehors des murs de sa prison dorée, il est conscient qu’une guerre sévit au-dehors entre ceux de son peuple et ceux qui ont tué sa famille et dont, Kai qu’il vient d’acheter pour son Maître, fait partie.
Le nouvel esclave se montre arrogant, fier, hautain, un soldat réduit en esclavage, mais au fond de lui, il n’est qu’un jeune homme perdu, qui s’est enrôlé dans l’armée pour échapper à la misère. Bien sûr il était un homme libre, mais un homme libre qui ne possédait rien. Et du jour au lendemain, se retrouver esclave dans une demeure opulente, auprès d’un Maître qui ne se montre pas violent, ni désagréable avec lui, change tout son univers.
Nous assistons donc à une lente montée d’acceptation de la part de ces trois personnages, chacun avec un trait de caractère bien défini, mais chacun dissimule ses pensées et ce qu’il pense, dans son désir de plaire ou de faire plaisir, le tout sur fond de guerre imminent. L’écriture est forte, puissante même, mais sait devenir sensuelle et tendre, rendant les personnages plus vivants que jamais. On se laisse totalement prendre dans ce monde, dans ces personnages où chacun nous attire de son côté tour à tour. Une fois commencé, je n’ai pas pu m’arrêter jusqu’à la fin.
Mais, franchement, Kate… à quand la suite ? Tu ne peux pas nous laisser aussi inquiets pour l’avenir de Maître, Tam et Kai…
This is the first book I read by this author and frankly I do not regret it at all, instead it made me want to get better acquainted with her world. This book puts the universe in a world of science fiction mixed with fantasy. Although Tam is sheltered in the house of his master, and he does not know too much what happens outside the walls of his golden prison, he is aware that a war rages on the outside between those of his people and those who killed his family and who Kai belongs, the slave he just bought for his Master.
The new slave shows arrogant, proud, haughty, an enslaved soldier, but in his heart he is a lost young man who joined the army to escape poverty. Of course he was a free man, but a free man who had nothing. And overnight, find a slave in a wealthy home, with a master who does not watch violent or rude to him, his whole world changes.
We are witnessing a slow rise of acceptance on the part of these three characters, each with a dash of well-defined character, but everyone hides his thoughts what he thinks, in his desire to please or pleasure, the against a backdrop of impending war. The writing is strong, even powerful, but knows how to become sensual and tender, making the characters more alive than ever. We let ourselves fully take in this world, these characters that draws us to each side to turn round. Once started, I could not stop until the end.
But frankly, Kate ... when the next ? You cannot leave us so worried about the future of Master, Tam and Kai ...
Les rêves de Tam deviennent vrais lorsque sa maîtresse s’en va, laissant son mari derrière elle. Pendant six mois parfaits, son Maître et lui arrivent à être ensemble. Puis Tam se voit ordonner d’acheter un autre esclave.
Il veut haïr Kai de se montrer indiscipliné et ingrat. D’être de la même race que les hommes qui ont assassiné sa famille. D’être son éventuel remplaçant dans le lit de leur Maître. Mais c’est difficile de haïr un homme qui pleure en s’endormant, sursaute au moindre contact et rougit si joliment lorsqu’il l’embrasse.
Séduire Kai est soudain devenu plus un pari qu’une corvée et, avec les encouragements de son maître, Tam commence à tomber amoureux de son nouveau compagnon. Sauf que… personne ne peut être amoureux de deux personnes à la fois, n’est-ce pas ?
C’est le premier livre que je lis de cet auteur et franchement je ne le regrette pas du tout, au contraire il m’a donné envie de faire plus ample connaissance avec son monde. Ce livre place son univers dans un monde de science fiction mélangé de fantasy. Bien que Tam soit à l’abri dans la demeure de son maître et qu’il ne sache pas trop ce qui se passe en dehors des murs de sa prison dorée, il est conscient qu’une guerre sévit au-dehors entre ceux de son peuple et ceux qui ont tué sa famille et dont, Kai qu’il vient d’acheter pour son Maître, fait partie.
Le nouvel esclave se montre arrogant, fier, hautain, un soldat réduit en esclavage, mais au fond de lui, il n’est qu’un jeune homme perdu, qui s’est enrôlé dans l’armée pour échapper à la misère. Bien sûr il était un homme libre, mais un homme libre qui ne possédait rien. Et du jour au lendemain, se retrouver esclave dans une demeure opulente, auprès d’un Maître qui ne se montre pas violent, ni désagréable avec lui, change tout son univers.
Nous assistons donc à une lente montée d’acceptation de la part de ces trois personnages, chacun avec un trait de caractère bien défini, mais chacun dissimule ses pensées et ce qu’il pense, dans son désir de plaire ou de faire plaisir, le tout sur fond de guerre imminent. L’écriture est forte, puissante même, mais sait devenir sensuelle et tendre, rendant les personnages plus vivants que jamais. On se laisse totalement prendre dans ce monde, dans ces personnages où chacun nous attire de son côté tour à tour. Une fois commencé, je n’ai pas pu m’arrêter jusqu’à la fin.
Mais, franchement, Kate… à quand la suite ? Tu ne peux pas nous laisser aussi inquiets pour l’avenir de Maître, Tam et Kai…
This is the first book I read by this author and frankly I do not regret it at all, instead it made me want to get better acquainted with her world. This book puts the universe in a world of science fiction mixed with fantasy. Although Tam is sheltered in the house of his master, and he does not know too much what happens outside the walls of his golden prison, he is aware that a war rages on the outside between those of his people and those who killed his family and who Kai belongs, the slave he just bought for his Master.
The new slave shows arrogant, proud, haughty, an enslaved soldier, but in his heart he is a lost young man who joined the army to escape poverty. Of course he was a free man, but a free man who had nothing. And overnight, find a slave in a wealthy home, with a master who does not watch violent or rude to him, his whole world changes.
We are witnessing a slow rise of acceptance on the part of these three characters, each with a dash of well-defined character, but everyone hides his thoughts what he thinks, in his desire to please or pleasure, the against a backdrop of impending war. The writing is strong, even powerful, but knows how to become sensual and tender, making the characters more alive than ever. We let ourselves fully take in this world, these characters that draws us to each side to turn round. Once started, I could not stop until the end.
But frankly, Kate ... when the next ? You cannot leave us so worried about the future of Master, Tam and Kai ...
June 1, 2015
Now that I have finished with all three books in this series, I figured it was time to write up some reviews with my thoughts on the story and execution. I really did enjoy this series and there were only a couple things that truly annoyed me. One of those things was the vastly overuse of the phrase or action 'chucking under the chin'. Seemed like every other page someone was chucking someone else under the chin. It just got distracting. The other thing that bothered me I'll elaborate on in my review of The Master, since that is where it manifests. The books in this series can't really be read as stand alone and would be best read in succession. Each book is told from the POV of the title character.
The Free Men series is a fantasy romance series set in time when slavery was was not only socially acceptable, but the norm. It tells the story of Tamelik, Kai, who are both pleasureslaves, and a minor underlord we only know as Master. We don't learn his name until book 2, so I won't spoil it here. Master is quite benevolent and he treats all of his slaves very well. He dislikes the institution of slavery, but his political position fairly dictates what is expected of him, and though he advocates for better treatment of slaves, he doesn't push for abolition. And though he owns pleasureslaves, he never forces himself on them. Ever.
Since this story is told from Tam's POV, we only really know what he knows and the things he experiences. Tam is a very happy and affectionate guy. He loves Master and loves his life. He was purchased by Master when he was 12 and intended to be a "pet", of sorts, for Master's wife. Tam, however, was a frightened child and latched onto and bonded with Master, himself. Master cared for him, and educated him (taught him to read) and after several years and many attempts by Tam to seduce Master, they finally become lovers. Tam was always very jealous of Master's time with his wife, though. He doesn't really understand why Master got married at all, since he very obviously favors men. Politics can be a bitch...
When Mistress finally left the compound, six months before this story begins, Tam is finally content. He has Master all to himself and things are very perfect, until Master directs Tam to purchase another slave. He sends Tam to the market alone and Tam is to choose whichever one he wants. When Tam seas Kai, a man who, obviously, was very recently a free man, he sees a chance to help someone. He knows that Master would never hurt anyone, nor would he force the new slave into his bed. But Tam doesn't understand why he isn't enough for Master, so he does resent Kai for a short period of time.
Kai...he is a strong man. A warrior. He was taken captive in battle and sold into slavery. At 24, it will not be an easy transition for him and at first, he has every intention of finding a way to escape. He changes so much, over the course of the story. He does not trust easily and it takes him some time to relax. He does, though, and as he and Tam get closer, he also sees that Master is a good man and eventually his walls come down entirely. We see Kai change the most over the course of the story and he seems to just bloom with the freedoms he has found, even being a slave. Far more than when he was a soldier.
Master is very much an enigma throughout this story. Though Tam knows him pretty well, he isn't at all privy to what Master does day in and day out. And Master spends much time away, so we know the least about him. We see his kindness and we get a really good feel for his personality. I never once thought him a bad guy. He lets Kai come to him in his own time and he encourages Tam and Kai to get to know one another in every way.
The steam level of this book is moderately hot. The dirty talk alone had me reaching for ice water. Also, if you read this book and find yourself enjoying it, do yourself a favor and go ahead and buy the second one (and what the hell, the third one) because The Slave ends on one hell of a cliffy.
October 27, 2014
Kate Aaron, without a doubt, has outdone herself! The Slave is a captivating tale about a slave named Tam. A slave who has had his world turned upside down and inside out and yet finds hope and love in the life he's been given. I fell in love with this character from the beginning. As Kai and Master enter the story, the ensemble grew not just in numbers but in fabulous substance. Each bringing so much to this already fascinating story. The Slave (Book One of Free Men) starts off this series with a bar leveled so high you are eager EAGER to see where Kate will take the rest of this tale. If there's one series you should fall into IT'S THIS ONE! It will blow your mind, have your heart pounding, and every fiber of your being vibrating. I loved every second of this amazing story! Every second!
December 27, 2017
True rating: 4.25 stars :-)!!
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