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Unbroken
Despite the rumors about Port Lewis, Michael Gates doesn’t expect the house he rents with his sister on Foxglove Lane to be haunted. An eerie meeting with Victor Lewellyn, the resident witch-turned-demon who is bound to the property by dark magic, changes his mind.
Michael isn’t looking to start a relationship with anyone, let alone someone like Victor, but the intense attraction between them can’t be ignored. As he dives into the world of magical drug rings, demons, witches, and necromancers, Michael also grapples with the complicated past he left behind in Arizona.
A relationship might not be what he wants, but it sparks something in him he didn’t realize he needs—the chance to heal.
Michael isn’t looking to start a relationship with anyone, let alone someone like Victor, but the intense attraction between them can’t be ignored. As he dives into the world of magical drug rings, demons, witches, and necromancers, Michael also grapples with the complicated past he left behind in Arizona.
A relationship might not be what he wants, but it sparks something in him he didn’t realize he needs—the chance to heal.
238 pages, ebook
First published April 8, 2019
About the author
Brooklyn Ray
12 books142 followersBrooklyn Ray (they/them) is a fan of fresh brewed tea, long walks through the woods, and evenings spent reading sexy books. They write Queer Paranormal Romance and Erotica about witches, necromancers, and other magical creatures, and moonlight as a tarot and palm reader in the snowy Northwest. Find them on Instagram @brooklynrayauthor
Professional Inquiries: brooklynraywrites@gmail.com
Signed books, crystal kits and Tarot: https://www.etsy.com/shop/QueerMagicB...
All other questions or comments can be made through Instagram!
Also writing New Adult, Science Fiction and Contemporary as Taylor Brooke
Now available from Taylor Brooke - ISOLATION: The Omnibus
Professional Inquiries: brooklynraywrites@gmail.com
Signed books, crystal kits and Tarot: https://www.etsy.com/shop/QueerMagicB...
All other questions or comments can be made through Instagram!
Also writing New Adult, Science Fiction and Contemporary as Taylor Brooke
Now available from Taylor Brooke - ISOLATION: The Omnibus
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 23, 2020
(A)
🔮 YOU CAN READ THE FULL REVIEW ON MY BLOG! 🔮
Unbroken follows Michael Gates as he settles into his new life at Port Lewis. Trying to escape his past in Arizona, he moves to this small, rainy town with his sister. It doesn't take him long to find out that the house he's recently rented is haunted by an actual demon, who turns out to be a pastry chef with a soft spot for sweetness.
I love Unbroken. A lot. This book is as lighthearted as it is heavy. It's full of funny moments but isn't lacking touching and tender ones either. I've spent two weeks examining my feeling for the book, and it hasn't changed a bit since I finished reading it. Safe to say, Unbroken has a place on my favorite shelf and in my heart now.
Unbroken is an excellent addition to the Port Lewis Witches universe, although it can be read as a standalone. If you like Hades/Persephone retelling, demonfucker romance, “oh my god they were roommates” situation and healing theme, you definitely would want to give this book a chance.
eARC provided by NineStar Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
—————
Pre-reading:
in honor of the cover reveal, here are all the reasons why i'm excited to read this book:
- hades/persephone retelling
- m/m monsterfucker romance
- apparently victor is a "sexy pastry chef demon" which?? is great???
- "oh my god they were roommates"
i also got approved for an arc :')
🔮 YOU CAN READ THE FULL REVIEW ON MY BLOG! 🔮
Unbroken follows Michael Gates as he settles into his new life at Port Lewis. Trying to escape his past in Arizona, he moves to this small, rainy town with his sister. It doesn't take him long to find out that the house he's recently rented is haunted by an actual demon, who turns out to be a pastry chef with a soft spot for sweetness.
I love Unbroken. A lot. This book is as lighthearted as it is heavy. It's full of funny moments but isn't lacking touching and tender ones either. I've spent two weeks examining my feeling for the book, and it hasn't changed a bit since I finished reading it. Safe to say, Unbroken has a place on my favorite shelf and in my heart now.
Unbroken is an excellent addition to the Port Lewis Witches universe, although it can be read as a standalone. If you like Hades/Persephone retelling, demonfucker romance, “oh my god they were roommates” situation and healing theme, you definitely would want to give this book a chance.
eARC provided by NineStar Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
—————
Pre-reading:
in honor of the cover reveal, here are all the reasons why i'm excited to read this book:
- hades/persephone retelling
- m/m monsterfucker romance
- apparently victor is a "sexy pastry chef demon" which?? is great???
- "oh my god they were roommates"
i also got approved for an arc :')
April 12, 2019
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 witchy stars because still no 1/2 stars here on GR...
It's not always the demons we run from that catch us...
Before I get into my thoughts on the story let's just take a moment to admire that cover. I've loved the covers for these books each one is unique in image but the style both conveys the over all feeling of the stories and connects them to each other. Also before reading any of these books I would strongly advise reading the warnings at the beginning of each book.
Even though the characters in the first two books were more connected my original viewpoint that these books should be read in order has not changed, however, with this story it's more of an enhancement than a requirement. There's no denying that I've found each story to be on the darker side but 'Unbroken' for me felt like the darkest of them so far.
When Michael's demons chase him to Port Lewis the last thing that he expects to happen is for the demon that haunts his new home to not only help him do battle against them...but to help him win his battle with the past. So far Michael's life choices have been less than stellar and more than one of them has ended badly for him. I found Michael to be a character whose outward confidence concealed an insecure person with definite self esteem issues. There was also a very likable aspect to this character.
I think for me the part of this story that was both the hardest and the best was Michael's history of abuse and how it was addressed. Michael's struggles with his past weren't swept under the rug when Victor came into his life...in fact Victor's arrival into his life was more like the catalyst that pushed Michael to begin examining what happened in his past and how it was affecting his behavior in the present as well as finding closure for himself. There was no defined beginning or ending of this for Michael just like real life this was an ongoing process for him and something that added realism and depth to his character.
While Michael ran from his demons...Victor Lewellyn was making deals with his. As a witch and a member of one of Port Lewis's founding families Victor is no stranger to witchcraft or the strange things that can happen in Port Lewis. But for the last year he's been tied to the Lewellyn house that he made his deal with a demon in and so far he's managed to scare off every one who's tried to live in it. I think in a lot of ways Michael and Victor are my favorite pairing in this series so far. I love what each brings to the relationship and to each other. Michael sees beyond Victor's exterior image to the man beneath and believes in him. At first he was intrigued by Victor and ultimately he loved him but fearing him was never something that Michael did. While Victor sees the good in Michael and together they learn to trust and believe in themselves and each other.
At the forefront of this story is the relationship between Michael and Victor but as things progress a secondary story line becomes evident and that's the one connected to the drug 'Essence' a drug that is very potent, a drug that the magical community of Port Lewis wants end the distribution of and the thread that seems to be what will connect this story to what comes next.
*************************
An ARC of 'Unbroken' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
It's not always the demons we run from that catch us...
Before I get into my thoughts on the story let's just take a moment to admire that cover. I've loved the covers for these books each one is unique in image but the style both conveys the over all feeling of the stories and connects them to each other. Also before reading any of these books I would strongly advise reading the warnings at the beginning of each book.
Even though the characters in the first two books were more connected my original viewpoint that these books should be read in order has not changed, however, with this story it's more of an enhancement than a requirement. There's no denying that I've found each story to be on the darker side but 'Unbroken' for me felt like the darkest of them so far.
When Michael's demons chase him to Port Lewis the last thing that he expects to happen is for the demon that haunts his new home to not only help him do battle against them...but to help him win his battle with the past. So far Michael's life choices have been less than stellar and more than one of them has ended badly for him. I found Michael to be a character whose outward confidence concealed an insecure person with definite self esteem issues. There was also a very likable aspect to this character.
I think for me the part of this story that was both the hardest and the best was Michael's history of abuse and how it was addressed. Michael's struggles with his past weren't swept under the rug when Victor came into his life...in fact Victor's arrival into his life was more like the catalyst that pushed Michael to begin examining what happened in his past and how it was affecting his behavior in the present as well as finding closure for himself. There was no defined beginning or ending of this for Michael just like real life this was an ongoing process for him and something that added realism and depth to his character.
While Michael ran from his demons...Victor Lewellyn was making deals with his. As a witch and a member of one of Port Lewis's founding families Victor is no stranger to witchcraft or the strange things that can happen in Port Lewis. But for the last year he's been tied to the Lewellyn house that he made his deal with a demon in and so far he's managed to scare off every one who's tried to live in it. I think in a lot of ways Michael and Victor are my favorite pairing in this series so far. I love what each brings to the relationship and to each other. Michael sees beyond Victor's exterior image to the man beneath and believes in him. At first he was intrigued by Victor and ultimately he loved him but fearing him was never something that Michael did. While Victor sees the good in Michael and together they learn to trust and believe in themselves and each other.
At the forefront of this story is the relationship between Michael and Victor but as things progress a secondary story line becomes evident and that's the one connected to the drug 'Essence' a drug that is very potent, a drug that the magical community of Port Lewis wants end the distribution of and the thread that seems to be what will connect this story to what comes next.
*************************
An ARC of 'Unbroken' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2019
This is how you do covers! Unbroken is a stand alone erotic romance set in the Port Lewis universe.
--pansexual demon love interest
--bratty bi MC
--so much sex!
--ownvoices rep
Full RTC
--pansexual demon love interest
--bratty bi MC
--so much sex!
--ownvoices rep
Full RTC
April 19, 2019
3.5 stars
Unbroken was fun! Human guy moves into a new town and starts dating a former-witch now-demon guy with horns and claws.
New town goals, to be honest, 10/10 would like myself a horny demon too.
The book is engaging and fun. The romance between Michael and Victor has developed fast but it wasn’t rushed. The pacing is reasonable and in character for these two people. I liked them together, they have chemistry off the charts. It’s fortune because every chapter has a sex scene, sometimes several of them..
Michael is photographer/travel blogger and a plant enthusiast. Victor is cooking enthusiast and a witch living with a demon inside of him. It’s not a Venom scenario, the demon is fully integrated into Victor and it doesn’t have a separate personality.
The relationship between Michael and his sister Janice was rough, lots of ups and downs. Janice said really hurtful things to Michael, she had been hurt by him too and it’s a whole situation, but I’m glad at where this sub plot ended.
My biggest issue is the setting. I don’t like Port Lewis, its “magical lore” and I don’t like oppressive community, which is Lewellyn witch clan. I get that it’s the point but I’m not having fun with it. This aspect was even more prominent in Darkling, which I didn’t enjoy.
Thalia though! She rocks and I like her.
Also I like casual queerinclusivity in the book.
Overall, Unbroken is fun and my horny demon-loving heart is happy. Michael is 100% a relatable character.
CW: blood (as in self-harm, cutting, blood magic and blood kink), mentions of past abusive relationship, power kink, I guess??)
Pre-review
on this fine day of 14/09/2018, the author of this book tweeted: "Hey monster fuckers. I’m publishing a book just for you " and I knew I had to add this book to my tbr.
Unbroken was fun! Human guy moves into a new town and starts dating a former-witch now-demon guy with horns and claws.
New town goals, to be honest, 10/10 would like myself a horny demon too.
The book is engaging and fun. The romance between Michael and Victor has developed fast but it wasn’t rushed. The pacing is reasonable and in character for these two people. I liked them together, they have chemistry off the charts. It’s fortune because every chapter has a sex scene, sometimes several of them..
Michael is photographer/travel blogger and a plant enthusiast. Victor is cooking enthusiast and a witch living with a demon inside of him. It’s not a Venom scenario, the demon is fully integrated into Victor and it doesn’t have a separate personality.
The relationship between Michael and his sister Janice was rough, lots of ups and downs. Janice said really hurtful things to Michael, she had been hurt by him too and it’s a whole situation, but I’m glad at where this sub plot ended.
My biggest issue is the setting. I don’t like Port Lewis, its “magical lore” and I don’t like oppressive community, which is Lewellyn witch clan. I get that it’s the point but I’m not having fun with it. This aspect was even more prominent in Darkling, which I didn’t enjoy.
Thalia though! She rocks and I like her.
Also I like casual queerinclusivity in the book.
Overall, Unbroken is fun and my horny demon-loving heart is happy. Michael is 100% a relatable character.
CW: blood (as in self-harm, cutting, blood magic and blood kink), mentions of past abusive relationship, power kink, I guess??)
Pre-review
on this fine day of 14/09/2018, the author of this book tweeted: "Hey monster fuckers. I’m publishing a book just for you " and I knew I had to add this book to my tbr.
Read
May 14, 2019DNF@ 40%
Nothing in this made any sense to me. Poor character development. Insta-love/lust. Just not at all my thing.
Nothing in this made any sense to me. Poor character development. Insta-love/lust. Just not at all my thing.
March 16, 2020
Plot - 3/5
Character - 3/5
World Building - 4/5
Writing Style - 4/5
Cover - 5/5
Rating - 3.8 / 5
Character - 3/5
World Building - 4/5
Writing Style - 4/5
Cover - 5/5
Rating - 3.8 / 5
June 24, 2019
Soooo, this book...Guy moves into a house that is known to be haunted in a new area with his sister. He finds out that a warlock lives there because he is bound there. He died and became linked to a demon. They end up falling for each other and starting a sexual relationship. I know it sounds like the more bizarre thing and definitely not something I would normally read, but it was entertaining! I actually enjoyed it even the sexy time. I’m a weirdo I know. It took me awhile to read because I thought this is so weird. But I did request it from NetGalley. I just didn’t think it would be like this. I give it a solid 3 stars
Read
June 15, 2020EDIT: 04/15/2020
I can't with clear conscience continue to support Brooklyn Ray. I'm disappointed because they are a really talented writer and I found their books compelling. I supported them fairly strongly, buying from their Etsy and supporting on Patreon for a time. But as of late, their behaviour of calling out authors of colour on their other penname (Taylor Brooke/Barton) for "problematic" representation, and then plugging their book in the same thread didn't sit well with me. As more details have come to light about their abusive behaviour in private to authors of colour over the last day, I can't leave my review up with no context. I have removed my rating but will keep my original review intact below.
Original Review: 03/09/2019
I have a lot of feelings.
Brooklyn Ray's writing flows so beautifully, the characters are fleshed out and compelling, the sex scenes are intense but also emotional. Michael and Victor's dynamic is wonderful and I loved their growth through the narrative. The magic is intriguing, as always. I loved revisiting Port Lewis and seeing the world through the eyes of an outsider.
I can't with clear conscience continue to support Brooklyn Ray. I'm disappointed because they are a really talented writer and I found their books compelling. I supported them fairly strongly, buying from their Etsy and supporting on Patreon for a time. But as of late, their behaviour of calling out authors of colour on their other penname (Taylor Brooke/Barton) for "problematic" representation, and then plugging their book in the same thread didn't sit well with me. As more details have come to light about their abusive behaviour in private to authors of colour over the last day, I can't leave my review up with no context. I have removed my rating but will keep my original review intact below.
Original Review: 03/09/2019
I have a lot of feelings.
Brooklyn Ray's writing flows so beautifully, the characters are fleshed out and compelling, the sex scenes are intense but also emotional. Michael and Victor's dynamic is wonderful and I loved their growth through the narrative. The magic is intriguing, as always. I loved revisiting Port Lewis and seeing the world through the eyes of an outsider.
June 8, 2019
I had the honor of being one of the beta readers for this amazing book, and it's one that I am deeply in love with.
The book is intense, and at times painful to read, but it's an incredible story of growth, acceptance, and learning about yourself. Both of the main characters are so lovable in their own ways, and it's wonderful to watch the ways they change, and stay the same, throughout the novel.
The book is intense, and at times painful to read, but it's an incredible story of growth, acceptance, and learning about yourself. Both of the main characters are so lovable in their own ways, and it's wonderful to watch the ways they change, and stay the same, throughout the novel.
April 13, 2019
I got to beta read this and absolutely love the story. It's sexy, thrilling and literally send shivers down my back. I love the characters and really enjoyed spending more time in Port Lewis. Can't wait for more from Brooklyn (and for everyone to read the story)!
December 6, 2019
This author knows how to create characters who make my heart ACHE.
→ Content/trigger warnings; explicit sex, blood play, BDSM, mentions of past abusive relationship and date-rape, mentions of self-harm/cutting, vomiting, tarantula, PTSD, depression, alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, ableism, slut shaming, mentions of past cheating,
→ Rep; Michael (MC) is demiromantic and bi, has PTSD and depression. Victor (LI) is pansexual. Corey (SC) is bisexual.
Whew. This book. I'd die for Michael and Victor. Their relationship is one of the most open, honest, and caring relationships I've read in a while. They're so great. They deserve nothing but happiness. There's a lot of healing, self-acceptance, and growth in this book. There's so much focus put on consent and communication and safe words, it's just......we stan.
As someone who doesn't like gratuitous sex or sex that takes away from emotional depth in books, I really enjoyed this. The author says it's erotica full stop, but I think what makes all the sex work for me is that the healing, emotional depth, and relationship and character development that happens in this book, happens through the sex. The sex in this isn't the kind of sex that you could just skip or even skim really and not miss anything. And it's a little funny, because I felt this relationship had more emotional and romantic depth than the one in Darkling/Undertow, which the author said are more romance than this one. Idk. I'm still shelving this as romance because I'm not making an erotica shelf, sorry author.
→ Content/trigger warnings; explicit sex, blood play, BDSM, mentions of past abusive relationship and date-rape, mentions of self-harm/cutting, vomiting, tarantula, PTSD, depression, alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, ableism, slut shaming, mentions of past cheating,
→ Rep; Michael (MC) is demiromantic and bi, has PTSD and depression. Victor (LI) is pansexual. Corey (SC) is bisexual.
Whew. This book. I'd die for Michael and Victor. Their relationship is one of the most open, honest, and caring relationships I've read in a while. They're so great. They deserve nothing but happiness. There's a lot of healing, self-acceptance, and growth in this book. There's so much focus put on consent and communication and safe words, it's just......we stan.
As someone who doesn't like gratuitous sex or sex that takes away from emotional depth in books, I really enjoyed this. The author says it's erotica full stop, but I think what makes all the sex work for me is that the healing, emotional depth, and relationship and character development that happens in this book, happens through the sex. The sex in this isn't the kind of sex that you could just skip or even skim really and not miss anything. And it's a little funny, because I felt this relationship had more emotional and romantic depth than the one in Darkling/Undertow, which the author said are more romance than this one. Idk. I'm still shelving this as romance because I'm not making an erotica shelf, sorry author.
April 9, 2019
TW: blood play, mentions of abuse and date rape (from Michael's previous relationship), discussions of self-harm/cutting, drug use, tarantula (Vic's familiar is a tarantual and i know some people are not about that spider life!)
Wow, the Port Lewis world always sucks me in and Unbroken is no different. Michael is full of complications internally and I mean the complications extend outward as well. No surprise there because he gets involved with Victor whose a witch turned demon. I was captivated by how thier relationship unfolded! Victor can be scary when needed but he was really sweet to michael and baked! because he was a pastry chef which I jsut loved.
And seeing characters from the previous books made me squee in joy. Especially one scene with a certain witch talking fondly about his boyfriend Ryder ;)
I would say to be mindful of the trigger warnings i posted because while there were lots of sweet moments and great banter between Vic and Michael this book does explore some serious things. Michael opening up to Victor was really well done but so hard to read because we're in Michael's POV for the entire book. Even so we get a great insight into who Victor was, how e became what he is, through Michael's eyes but Michael has been through so much and carries so much pain in him? It was tough to read at times.
The book ends on a hopeful note for Victor and Michael. There's no doubt they are in it together but the ending also left it open to us possibly (i hope) seeing more of them!
Wow, the Port Lewis world always sucks me in and Unbroken is no different. Michael is full of complications internally and I mean the complications extend outward as well. No surprise there because he gets involved with Victor whose a witch turned demon. I was captivated by how thier relationship unfolded! Victor can be scary when needed but he was really sweet to michael and baked! because he was a pastry chef which I jsut loved.
And seeing characters from the previous books made me squee in joy. Especially one scene with a certain witch talking fondly about his boyfriend Ryder ;)
I would say to be mindful of the trigger warnings i posted because while there were lots of sweet moments and great banter between Vic and Michael this book does explore some serious things. Michael opening up to Victor was really well done but so hard to read because we're in Michael's POV for the entire book. Even so we get a great insight into who Victor was, how e became what he is, through Michael's eyes but Michael has been through so much and carries so much pain in him? It was tough to read at times.
The book ends on a hopeful note for Victor and Michael. There's no doubt they are in it together but the ending also left it open to us possibly (i hope) seeing more of them!
March 19, 2019
3.5 Stars
Enjoyable
Creative
Steamy
Intruiging
Overall I did enjoy this book. The writing was good, the world was creative and interesting, and the characters were sound. This was a paranormal erotic gay romance with a sexy demon and a handsome but kind of goth/punk human male.
The secondary characters weren’t very lovable, however. I did not like the main character’s sister at all. In fact, she was just not a very good sister. She was the opposite of supportive and constantly made him feel guilty and belittled him, even to other people. Alas, I did love the world it was set in and the tarantual (NOT a spider apparently, lol)
The romance was definitely fast paced....I wouldn’t describe it as insta-love (although they did fall in love quite fast) I would say it was more insta-like, right from the very beginning even. This book had lots, and lots, and lotsssss of sex. I even got to the point where I wanted more of the story and no more sex. When I find myself skimming a sex scene then I ask myself if this is real life, because that hardly ever happens.
If you enjoy gay erotic romance with a paranormal twist and a HEA then you should read this book. I do not think you will be dissappinted.
Lastly, there are a few triggers and even if they don’t trigger you, they would be considered a dark theme. Self harm and blood play specifically. I however, did not mind it, it fit well in this book with these characters.
Enjoyable
Creative
Steamy
Intruiging
Overall I did enjoy this book. The writing was good, the world was creative and interesting, and the characters were sound. This was a paranormal erotic gay romance with a sexy demon and a handsome but kind of goth/punk human male.
The secondary characters weren’t very lovable, however. I did not like the main character’s sister at all. In fact, she was just not a very good sister. She was the opposite of supportive and constantly made him feel guilty and belittled him, even to other people. Alas, I did love the world it was set in and the tarantual (NOT a spider apparently, lol)
The romance was definitely fast paced....I wouldn’t describe it as insta-love (although they did fall in love quite fast) I would say it was more insta-like, right from the very beginning even. This book had lots, and lots, and lotsssss of sex. I even got to the point where I wanted more of the story and no more sex. When I find myself skimming a sex scene then I ask myself if this is real life, because that hardly ever happens.
If you enjoy gay erotic romance with a paranormal twist and a HEA then you should read this book. I do not think you will be dissappinted.
Lastly, there are a few triggers and even if they don’t trigger you, they would be considered a dark theme. Self harm and blood play specifically. I however, did not mind it, it fit well in this book with these characters.
Read
September 18, 2019I received an advance copy from NineStar Press via Netgalley. This in no way influences my review; all words, thoughts, and opinions are my own.
Actual rating: 3.75/5 [rating removed]
Content Notes:
I really like the Port Lewis setting and this is a great addition to the world. Ray’s writing is perfect for the magical setting and has a very ethereal quality to it. I loved the cameos of familiar characters from the main series, and especially loved the ways this book dealt with consent, past abuse, and owning your body and autonomy after trauma. Victor is super soft and caring, and just what Michael needs to feel comfortable with his wants and needs. I really enjoyed this and look forward to more, especially with the ending of Victor and Michael going on new adventures/mission for Thalia.
Actual rating: 3.75/5 [rating removed]
Content Notes:
I really like the Port Lewis setting and this is a great addition to the world. Ray’s writing is perfect for the magical setting and has a very ethereal quality to it. I loved the cameos of familiar characters from the main series, and especially loved the ways this book dealt with consent, past abuse, and owning your body and autonomy after trauma. Victor is super soft and caring, and just what Michael needs to feel comfortable with his wants and needs. I really enjoyed this and look forward to more, especially with the ending of Victor and Michael going on new adventures/mission for Thalia.
April 16, 2019
Another dark beauty from this author, I really dig the writing style (sharp and evocative) and the mix of new adult innocence and daring. The contents, which come with a warning, are unapologeticly dark and dangerous and sexy as sin. All three books in the series have been quick reads so far, and though I wouldn't mind seeing more of these stories fleshed out further, I'm well and truly hooked.
April 21, 2020
oh I really enjoyed this one!!
August 7, 2019
First and foremost, this is a dark story. A dark series. Don't forget that. There is major blood play, mixed with sex and without, and in this one there is mention of the past of one of the MCs who was day raped and abused severely. If any is a trigger, please be careful.
Michael, when it comes down to was running. And hard from Arizona. From the past, the abuse, the bad choices and mistakes, to start over somewhere where no one knows him and he's free to be himself. But something about this house in Port Lewis is weirding him out. It feels off to him and has no explanation why. Until he hears the attic unlock from his bedroom and he can't help but be nosy. As he looks around the rooms and through the books of magic and demonology on the shelf, he whispers the name of who it belongs to, and is immediately met with a whisper of breath at his neck whispering his name. He knows he should be scared of Victor, but even Victor being one with a demon doesn't bother him. And to be truthful, the relationship he's building with Victor has never made him feel more safe or more anything. Victor is all he's wanted. But they are edging into some very dangerous territory that killed Victor. And if Michael isn't careful, it could go too far and he could be next.
This one was different. The circle wasn't really in this one. Liam and Christy make appearances. Of course Thalia does, but this one deals more with Victor and Michael, with their pasts and futures. And both have had some doozies. Michael running from an abusive relationship and Victor dying from the last person he slept with. Real humdingers, let me tell you. I wanted to beat Michael's ex and and after meeting Victor's murderer, yeah I wanted to kill them too. Bitch is a nice word for what they are. But even with all the danger surrounding them, Victor and Michael found something in each other they've never gotten anywhere else. And it formed a bond of epic proportions.
This is still a good series. It took a side note with these two because they have a role to play in the grand scheme of things. And when the last book is read, I'm anxious to see how it's going to turn out. Cuz damn.
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Michael, when it comes down to was running. And hard from Arizona. From the past, the abuse, the bad choices and mistakes, to start over somewhere where no one knows him and he's free to be himself. But something about this house in Port Lewis is weirding him out. It feels off to him and has no explanation why. Until he hears the attic unlock from his bedroom and he can't help but be nosy. As he looks around the rooms and through the books of magic and demonology on the shelf, he whispers the name of who it belongs to, and is immediately met with a whisper of breath at his neck whispering his name. He knows he should be scared of Victor, but even Victor being one with a demon doesn't bother him. And to be truthful, the relationship he's building with Victor has never made him feel more safe or more anything. Victor is all he's wanted. But they are edging into some very dangerous territory that killed Victor. And if Michael isn't careful, it could go too far and he could be next.
This one was different. The circle wasn't really in this one. Liam and Christy make appearances. Of course Thalia does, but this one deals more with Victor and Michael, with their pasts and futures. And both have had some doozies. Michael running from an abusive relationship and Victor dying from the last person he slept with. Real humdingers, let me tell you. I wanted to beat Michael's ex and and after meeting Victor's murderer, yeah I wanted to kill them too. Bitch is a nice word for what they are. But even with all the danger surrounding them, Victor and Michael found something in each other they've never gotten anywhere else. And it formed a bond of epic proportions.
This is still a good series. It took a side note with these two because they have a role to play in the grand scheme of things. And when the last book is read, I'm anxious to see how it's going to turn out. Cuz damn.
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April 22, 2019
I was given a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
WARNING: This book contains sexual content, rape, abuse and mature subject content.
Michael Gates is finally settling down and going off to college with his sister Janice, or at least he's supposed to be. Michael and Janice move to Port Lewis so they can begin this new part of their lives. Once they arrive at their new residence, it doesn't take long before a demon named Victor reveals himself to Michael. Things escalate quickly and the two begin to have an intense sexual relationship resulting in them developing feelings for each other. When secrets from their seperate pasts are revealed it seems to make their relationship stronger enabling them to take on whatever adventures the future holds, together.
I felt the author did an amazing job with the Michael character. It was amazing to watch him go through the stages of denial and finally acceptance of his past and what he wanted for his future. Victor was well written as well, it was good to see him written as an equal partner for Michael rather than a secondary character in Michael's story. I thought the relationship between Michael and Victor was, while usually hot and heavy, it was also sweet, intense, dramatic and realistic. The growth in the relationship between Michael and Victor was apparent and beautiful in it's own way. I found myself rooting for them very early on and was very excited to find out they would be staying together.
I would recommend this book for an older audience, 18+. Also, to people who enjoy human and monster intercourse, paranormal romance, and people who are not disturbed by occult practices.
WARNING: This book contains sexual content, rape, abuse and mature subject content.
Michael Gates is finally settling down and going off to college with his sister Janice, or at least he's supposed to be. Michael and Janice move to Port Lewis so they can begin this new part of their lives. Once they arrive at their new residence, it doesn't take long before a demon named Victor reveals himself to Michael. Things escalate quickly and the two begin to have an intense sexual relationship resulting in them developing feelings for each other. When secrets from their seperate pasts are revealed it seems to make their relationship stronger enabling them to take on whatever adventures the future holds, together.
I felt the author did an amazing job with the Michael character. It was amazing to watch him go through the stages of denial and finally acceptance of his past and what he wanted for his future. Victor was well written as well, it was good to see him written as an equal partner for Michael rather than a secondary character in Michael's story. I thought the relationship between Michael and Victor was, while usually hot and heavy, it was also sweet, intense, dramatic and realistic. The growth in the relationship between Michael and Victor was apparent and beautiful in it's own way. I found myself rooting for them very early on and was very excited to find out they would be staying together.
I would recommend this book for an older audience, 18+. Also, to people who enjoy human and monster intercourse, paranormal romance, and people who are not disturbed by occult practices.
May 1, 2019
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
demons! witches! character development! amazing ship dynamic! telling the truth to your friends about fucking the poltergeist and everyone thinking you're joking!
I also love that this book normalises introducing yourself by your pronouns even if you're cis / not nonbinary.
note: this is definitely erotica and it definitely has several sex scenes
other content notes: blood magic, cutting, cheating, adultery, abuse, drugs, and probably some other things I'm missing
overall, this turned out to be not really my cup of tea (for reasons, just look at the content notes), but I did like Victor a lot.
demons! witches! character development! amazing ship dynamic! telling the truth to your friends about fucking the poltergeist and everyone thinking you're joking!
I also love that this book normalises introducing yourself by your pronouns even if you're cis / not nonbinary.
note: this is definitely erotica and it definitely has several sex scenes
other content notes: blood magic, cutting, cheating, adultery, abuse, drugs, and probably some other things I'm missing
overall, this turned out to be not really my cup of tea (for reasons, just look at the content notes), but I did like Victor a lot.
April 14, 2019
This was an enjoyable M/M paranormal romance; the two main characters both had issues in their past which were handled sensitively by the author and the romance was very cute. I also loved the creepy setting and atmosphere and this would be a perfect book for Halloween. I will definitely read the other books in the series.
E-arc received from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
E-arc received from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2019
I'm not entirely unconvinced that Brooklyn Ray didn't just, like, reach into my head and pluck out a bunch of my favorite things in order to write this book. I can't even write about all of them because some are spoilery but, just, GAH. *insert keyboard-mashing flaily delight here*
SO GOOD. SO, SO GOOD.
I read this in a few hours. Once I started, I literally could not put it down. I just really love Michael and Victor, okay? OKAY????? Bonus for the pitch-perfect cameos by several other Port Lewis witches we've all come to know and love. :D
READ THIS SERIES, Y'ALL. JUST DO IT.
SO GOOD. SO, SO GOOD.
I read this in a few hours. Once I started, I literally could not put it down. I just really love Michael and Victor, okay? OKAY????? Bonus for the pitch-perfect cameos by several other Port Lewis witches we've all come to know and love. :D
READ THIS SERIES, Y'ALL. JUST DO IT.
October 16, 2019
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Unbroken
Port Lewis Witches, Book 2.5
by Brooklyn Ray
★★★★★
237 Pages
POV: 3rd person, one character
Content Warning: drug use, blood play, mentions of a past abusive relationship, mentions of historical self-harm and date-rape, D/s elements
This is a great addition to an already brilliant series. A perfect continuation of 5* storytelling. I don't know how Brooklyn Ray manages it, but I'm always sucked in whole-heartedly to Port Lewis Witches stories, no matter who the characters are or what they get up to.
Here, we have characters who are entirely new to the series – Michael and Victor, as well as the minor characters of Michael's sister Janice, their roommate Corey, and Victor's familiar Elizabeth. Michael is new to Port Lewis, moving into a rented house that he soon discovers is haunted by Victor Lewellyn. Once a witch, a deal with a demon and an accident made him into something more. Something Michael finds irresistible.
The chemistry between these two is off-the-charts, from page one. Playful, teasing, palpably hot; these two are instantly attracted, hands on, and hot and heavy between the sheets very early on. Neither is aware of where it will lead. And that's the best part. Seeing these two – Michael, who thinks little of himself and who wears a mask to hide his softer layers; and Victor, who has been alone for so long – gradually come to realise what they mean together, getting to know each other, and slowly drifting towards the inevitable, is beautiful. Despite Michael's guarded approach to life and his resistance to relationships, there are some seriously tender and beautiful moments between this pair. Amongst all the hot and heavy breathing and blood play.
There is an element of D/s in Michael and Victor's relationship, as it progresses. Michael has a need for pain and blood, cutting and punishment, at times; he also drops into a subspace a few times, and Victor has to warn him about sub drop. There's even nicely explored aftercare, which I love seeing. Victor always made sure to take care of Michael, even if he wouldn't take care of himself. Whether that meant giving him the pain he wanted, cutting him, or being tender, he was finely tuned to Michael's needs and it only made their relationship, and their growing feelings for one another, all the more poignant.
I loved that we got little cameo appearances by two of the circle from the main stories: Liam (unnamed in the story, acting as a Lyft driver) and Christy. We also get to see a little bit more of Thalia and Vassa, both of whom appeared in previous stories. It kept the link between the stories alive, made the plot weave nicely through that of the previous (and potentially future) stories, while also giving us a snippet of Port Lewis from a different POV.
Michael didn't even know or believe that magic existed before arriving in Port Lewis, though he's heard the rumours. Seeing him begin to discover the reality of Port Lewis and all that it has to offer, is one of the really clever parts of the plot. The storytelling allows this story to be read almost entirely as a standalone. If you hadn't read a Port Lewis story before, then you could pick this up and fall in love with the world and the characters, without spoiling any of the previous two stories. But I guarantee that you'd want to go back and start at the beginning, once you had a taste. Port Lewis is that good.
All in all, I felt like this was a little more gothic romance than the other stories, which I loved. It was just a hint of atmosphere and a sliver of darkness that gave the feeling, but it perfectly suited the characters and the story they had to tell. This one was much hotter than the other stories, with some casual drug use, but that too fits the characters, with Michael using both to vent his feelings or hide from them. He's a little bit reckless with himself, and one of the best pasts of the story is seeing him unravel for Victor, allowing himself to be free and trust in someone else.
~
Favourite Quotes
“He looked like a painting, rich and haunted, a canvas that turned beauty into a monstrous thing.”
Unbroken
Port Lewis Witches, Book 2.5
by Brooklyn Ray
★★★★★
237 Pages
POV: 3rd person, one character
Content Warning: drug use, blood play, mentions of a past abusive relationship, mentions of historical self-harm and date-rape, D/s elements
This is a great addition to an already brilliant series. A perfect continuation of 5* storytelling. I don't know how Brooklyn Ray manages it, but I'm always sucked in whole-heartedly to Port Lewis Witches stories, no matter who the characters are or what they get up to.
Here, we have characters who are entirely new to the series – Michael and Victor, as well as the minor characters of Michael's sister Janice, their roommate Corey, and Victor's familiar Elizabeth. Michael is new to Port Lewis, moving into a rented house that he soon discovers is haunted by Victor Lewellyn. Once a witch, a deal with a demon and an accident made him into something more. Something Michael finds irresistible.
The chemistry between these two is off-the-charts, from page one. Playful, teasing, palpably hot; these two are instantly attracted, hands on, and hot and heavy between the sheets very early on. Neither is aware of where it will lead. And that's the best part. Seeing these two – Michael, who thinks little of himself and who wears a mask to hide his softer layers; and Victor, who has been alone for so long – gradually come to realise what they mean together, getting to know each other, and slowly drifting towards the inevitable, is beautiful. Despite Michael's guarded approach to life and his resistance to relationships, there are some seriously tender and beautiful moments between this pair. Amongst all the hot and heavy breathing and blood play.
There is an element of D/s in Michael and Victor's relationship, as it progresses. Michael has a need for pain and blood, cutting and punishment, at times; he also drops into a subspace a few times, and Victor has to warn him about sub drop. There's even nicely explored aftercare, which I love seeing. Victor always made sure to take care of Michael, even if he wouldn't take care of himself. Whether that meant giving him the pain he wanted, cutting him, or being tender, he was finely tuned to Michael's needs and it only made their relationship, and their growing feelings for one another, all the more poignant.
I loved that we got little cameo appearances by two of the circle from the main stories: Liam (unnamed in the story, acting as a Lyft driver) and Christy. We also get to see a little bit more of Thalia and Vassa, both of whom appeared in previous stories. It kept the link between the stories alive, made the plot weave nicely through that of the previous (and potentially future) stories, while also giving us a snippet of Port Lewis from a different POV.
Michael didn't even know or believe that magic existed before arriving in Port Lewis, though he's heard the rumours. Seeing him begin to discover the reality of Port Lewis and all that it has to offer, is one of the really clever parts of the plot. The storytelling allows this story to be read almost entirely as a standalone. If you hadn't read a Port Lewis story before, then you could pick this up and fall in love with the world and the characters, without spoiling any of the previous two stories. But I guarantee that you'd want to go back and start at the beginning, once you had a taste. Port Lewis is that good.
All in all, I felt like this was a little more gothic romance than the other stories, which I loved. It was just a hint of atmosphere and a sliver of darkness that gave the feeling, but it perfectly suited the characters and the story they had to tell. This one was much hotter than the other stories, with some casual drug use, but that too fits the characters, with Michael using both to vent his feelings or hide from them. He's a little bit reckless with himself, and one of the best pasts of the story is seeing him unravel for Victor, allowing himself to be free and trust in someone else.
~
Favourite Quotes
“He looked like a painting, rich and haunted, a canvas that turned beauty into a monstrous thing.”
March 26, 2019
While I really enjoyed this book, there was WAY more sex than there really needed to be. It's not particularly long and I would really have liked some of the skimmed over parts to be in more detail, but with Michael as a narrator it really can't be helped. The end took a turn I wasn't expecting and made the whole thing feel like a smutty preview trailer for a coming series. I am definitely looking forward to the next book, but I do hope it has a bit more plot than this one.
March 19, 2019
I received a copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for a review.
I am not going to lie, when I read the description from this book, I was not expecting the book to be a complete m/m erotic romance... but I'm not mad about it?
While it wasn't a book I would have picked if I had read other reviews on it, to know that the was the premise, I enjoyed it.
I thought seeing the romance build between Michael and Victor was cute, I just wish there was more of that, and less of the sex if I'm being honest. I appreciate a good sex scene, and these were good, I just didn't think it needed to happen every other page.
The plot had so much potential to be more to me. I liked the idea of Michael falling in love with a witch/demon. I also liked that they helped each other deal with their inner turmoil.
It was just a lot of sex. Like A LOT of sex. So if you're really into that, you'll love it. I just thought it was excessive.
I am not going to lie, when I read the description from this book, I was not expecting the book to be a complete m/m erotic romance... but I'm not mad about it?
While it wasn't a book I would have picked if I had read other reviews on it, to know that the was the premise, I enjoyed it.
I thought seeing the romance build between Michael and Victor was cute, I just wish there was more of that, and less of the sex if I'm being honest. I appreciate a good sex scene, and these were good, I just didn't think it needed to happen every other page.
The plot had so much potential to be more to me. I liked the idea of Michael falling in love with a witch/demon. I also liked that they helped each other deal with their inner turmoil.
It was just a lot of sex. Like A LOT of sex. So if you're really into that, you'll love it. I just thought it was excessive.
Read
June 16, 2020Another great book in the Port Lewis series!
I enjoyed Unbroken a lot.
It combines several of the strengths of the author's Darkling like the incredible sex scenes and fascinatingly complex characters while also building on previous weaknesses, like expanding the worldbuilding and actually explaining things.
Content warnings include: sex on-page, blood play, BDSM; mentions of self harm, date-rape as part of an abusive past relationship. Content warnings can also be found at the beginning of the book!
I adored Michael, the protagonist. I ached for and with him, his rawness drew me in completely and despite his vastly different experiences I related to him deeply.
That made experiencing his developing relationship with Victor intense and heart-wrenching and rendered me unable to put the book down, a notion supported by the extremely fast pacing of the book. If there's one thing I have to complain about, it's that I wish the book had been longer or slower, particularly in the beginning. I was, however, so charmed by the characters and the atmosphere that I didn't mind the fast development at all.
I've said it before and I'll say it again: this author excells at writing sexual content. The kissing scenes alone are filled with incredible tension and are sparking with energy, and it gets better the more intimate the characters get.
The sex scenes in Unbroken - and there's a lot of them, this is erotica after all - are a mix of sweet, intense, rough and magical, with a generous dose of kink, sometimes with and sometimes without blood.
Something I particularly enjoyed was both characters' occupations/hobbies, and Michael's sibling relationship with his sister. It felt real and profound and reflected a lot of my own sibling experiences, though it got more painful towards the end as Michael faces his past.
Speaking of, his past is not pretty. I loved the way it was slowly revealed during the narrative, how Michael's dealing with his changes and the conversations about it.
I also liked the cameos of and references to more and less familiar characters from the other Port Lewis books.
Unbroken can definitely be read as a standalone as it is removed from the other books plot-wise. I would even argue it's the best introduction to the series, as a lot more things about magic are explained here, since Michael has no idea about any of it before he meets Victor. It does technically spoil the events in Darkling, but only vaguely.
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly & voluntarily.
I enjoyed Unbroken a lot.
It combines several of the strengths of the author's Darkling like the incredible sex scenes and fascinatingly complex characters while also building on previous weaknesses, like expanding the worldbuilding and actually explaining things.
Content warnings include: sex on-page, blood play, BDSM; mentions of self harm, date-rape as part of an abusive past relationship. Content warnings can also be found at the beginning of the book!
I adored Michael, the protagonist. I ached for and with him, his rawness drew me in completely and despite his vastly different experiences I related to him deeply.
That made experiencing his developing relationship with Victor intense and heart-wrenching and rendered me unable to put the book down, a notion supported by the extremely fast pacing of the book. If there's one thing I have to complain about, it's that I wish the book had been longer or slower, particularly in the beginning. I was, however, so charmed by the characters and the atmosphere that I didn't mind the fast development at all.
I've said it before and I'll say it again: this author excells at writing sexual content. The kissing scenes alone are filled with incredible tension and are sparking with energy, and it gets better the more intimate the characters get.
The sex scenes in Unbroken - and there's a lot of them, this is erotica after all - are a mix of sweet, intense, rough and magical, with a generous dose of kink, sometimes with and sometimes without blood.
Something I particularly enjoyed was both characters' occupations/hobbies, and Michael's sibling relationship with his sister. It felt real and profound and reflected a lot of my own sibling experiences, though it got more painful towards the end as Michael faces his past.
Speaking of, his past is not pretty. I loved the way it was slowly revealed during the narrative, how Michael's dealing with his changes and the conversations about it.
I also liked the cameos of and references to more and less familiar characters from the other Port Lewis books.
Unbroken can definitely be read as a standalone as it is removed from the other books plot-wise. I would even argue it's the best introduction to the series, as a lot more things about magic are explained here, since Michael has no idea about any of it before he meets Victor. It does technically spoil the events in Darkling, but only vaguely.
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly & voluntarily.
September 11, 2020
What a fun read!
While at a Pride Festival yesterday I spotted a booth with a table stacked with dozens of gorgeous, glossy paperbacks so, naturally, I had to go check it out! I met the author, Brooklyn Ray , and was super excited when I was told that Brooklyn writes queer erotica coupled with paranormal fiction. So, of course, I'm like *squeeeal* "YES, PLEASE! SIGN ME UP!"
I started Unbroken last night and just finished only moments ago. I don't typically read a lot of romance (the sex really sold me on this one) but I found the story to be quite touching with some real quality writing. I enjoyed it!
This particular book is strictly m/m, which was great, but I'm looking forward to reading some f/f by this author!
While at a Pride Festival yesterday I spotted a booth with a table stacked with dozens of gorgeous, glossy paperbacks so, naturally, I had to go check it out! I met the author, Brooklyn Ray , and was super excited when I was told that Brooklyn writes queer erotica coupled with paranormal fiction. So, of course, I'm like *squeeeal* "YES, PLEASE! SIGN ME UP!"
I started Unbroken last night and just finished only moments ago. I don't typically read a lot of romance (the sex really sold me on this one) but I found the story to be quite touching with some real quality writing. I enjoyed it!
This particular book is strictly m/m, which was great, but I'm looking forward to reading some f/f by this author!
March 19, 2019
All. The. Stars.
Wow, you guys. I enjoyed this even more than I hoped for! I thought going in it’d be dark and angsty, and don’t get me wrong - it was, but it was so much more than that!
The writing was sharp, seductive, and thoroughly evocative. Brooklyn Ray managed to do in a relatively short time what so many others struggle with throughout hundreds and hundreds of pages. I was so enamored with both MCs individually and their bonds to each other. They come together very quickly(usually a no-no for me); but, it was totally believable. Their chemistry and draw to one another was undeniable.
”Michael Gates was reckless and promiscuous. He was lonely and guarded and made sure to stay unlovable. Until right then, in Victor’s bed, with blood on his lips and magic in his veins. “I belong with you,” Michael said.”
“Victor Lewellyn was demonic and haunting, magical and intimidating. But Michael wasn’t afraid of him because of that...
Michael Gates had caught feelings. And that was certainly worse.”
There are some pretty heavy tones throughout(see:content warning) but it never gets bogged down: there’s always this lingering hopefulness throughout Victor and Michael’s interactions.
”He looked at himself for a long time. Claimed. Empowered. Unbroken. He smiled at himself for a long time too.”
Ugh, I just couldn’t get enough of them, and I really didn’t even want this story to end.
”Magic was not impossible. Neither was Victor. Neither was love.”
Content Warning(As stated by author in the book): Depictions of anxiety, blood play in sexual and non-sexual situations, off-page reference to past sexual abuse within an abusive relationship, and self-harm.
*ARC provided by NetGalley and NineStar Press in exchange for a honest review*
Wow, you guys. I enjoyed this even more than I hoped for! I thought going in it’d be dark and angsty, and don’t get me wrong - it was, but it was so much more than that!
The writing was sharp, seductive, and thoroughly evocative. Brooklyn Ray managed to do in a relatively short time what so many others struggle with throughout hundreds and hundreds of pages. I was so enamored with both MCs individually and their bonds to each other. They come together very quickly(usually a no-no for me); but, it was totally believable. Their chemistry and draw to one another was undeniable.
”Michael Gates was reckless and promiscuous. He was lonely and guarded and made sure to stay unlovable. Until right then, in Victor’s bed, with blood on his lips and magic in his veins. “I belong with you,” Michael said.”
“Victor Lewellyn was demonic and haunting, magical and intimidating. But Michael wasn’t afraid of him because of that...
Michael Gates had caught feelings. And that was certainly worse.”
There are some pretty heavy tones throughout(see:content warning) but it never gets bogged down: there’s always this lingering hopefulness throughout Victor and Michael’s interactions.
”He looked at himself for a long time. Claimed. Empowered. Unbroken. He smiled at himself for a long time too.”
Ugh, I just couldn’t get enough of them, and I really didn’t even want this story to end.
”Magic was not impossible. Neither was Victor. Neither was love.”
Content Warning(As stated by author in the book): Depictions of anxiety, blood play in sexual and non-sexual situations, off-page reference to past sexual abuse within an abusive relationship, and self-harm.
*ARC provided by NetGalley and NineStar Press in exchange for a honest review*
April 7, 2019
With a main character who has given their body and soul over to a demon, you might expect a dark and moody read. And this book is that, but not for the reasons you would think.
Victor, the witch become demon, does have a dark side that comes out to play at times. As described in the opening chapters, he’s quite creepy, but that’s deceptive; Victor/Allocer is probably among the nicest demonic entities in fiction. I mean, he bakes brownies for his guy! Except under certain circumstances, he’s pretty much a marshmallow.
The real darkness in this book resides in the POV character, Michael, who’s completely human. Michael is prickly and caustic, and I found him difficult to like at first. That’s because he really doesn’t like himself, though. As the book unfolds, the reader learns more about Michael’s background, which includes some severe trauma. He definitely has reasons for his behavior. (Do check out the trigger warnings before reading.) Victor’s affection and care helps Michael to begin to come to terms with his past and start to heal, and the book ends with a much more positive mood.
If you like atmospheric writing and hurt/comfort stories, you should give this book a try. The final chapter suggests that there’s more to come for Michael and Victor, and I’m looking forward to finding out what happens next.
A copy of this book was provided through NetGalley for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
Victor, the witch become demon, does have a dark side that comes out to play at times. As described in the opening chapters, he’s quite creepy, but that’s deceptive; Victor/Allocer is probably among the nicest demonic entities in fiction. I mean, he bakes brownies for his guy! Except under certain circumstances, he’s pretty much a marshmallow.
The real darkness in this book resides in the POV character, Michael, who’s completely human. Michael is prickly and caustic, and I found him difficult to like at first. That’s because he really doesn’t like himself, though. As the book unfolds, the reader learns more about Michael’s background, which includes some severe trauma. He definitely has reasons for his behavior. (Do check out the trigger warnings before reading.) Victor’s affection and care helps Michael to begin to come to terms with his past and start to heal, and the book ends with a much more positive mood.
If you like atmospheric writing and hurt/comfort stories, you should give this book a try. The final chapter suggests that there’s more to come for Michael and Victor, and I’m looking forward to finding out what happens next.
A copy of this book was provided through NetGalley for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
April 21, 2019
Scarcely more than a porny PWP with darkish overtones and a tenuous paranormal mythology. The writing is better than average in this genre, the instant lust trope has been somewhat deftly avoided and the all-prevailing humour, arch without true bite, alleviates a good deal the monotony of the repetitive pillow wrestling which unfortunately has been allowed to overshadow most everything else, yet too little that is momentous happens for this story to shine. We are being asked to fall in love with the antics and sexual prowess of barely sketched protagonists who do not receive any positive light from their standing in sharp contrast to the, mostly creepy and sometimes cheesy to a fault, secondary cast; unfortunately, this is a tall order given the sheer amount of missing data and wasted opportunities to flesh out the character- and world-building. This novelette has been advertized as a stand-alone; while what passes off here for a plot indeed is self-contained and no situation or dialogue ever assumes any knowledge of either the characters or the wider background, this state of affairs stems not from strong delivery but from the decision to avoid delving into the mythology to which we owe us both the demonic love interest and the paranormal contents. The end result is an impression of fuzziness that lingers over the entire book like dense mist and blunts the edges of everything that is not sex-related, especially the small-town atmosphere and the magical situation at hand.
October 6, 2019
I really enjoyed most of this book and had planned on giving it 5 stars. However, I was really put-off by the (interrupted) threesome and pointless almost-love triangle with Corey.
Between the theme of the plot—that Michael and Victor have this fated to be together destiny thing going on—Victor's possessiveness, and the way Michael was kind of all about Victor almost immediately, it just didn't make sense. It came off like Victor didn't want to do it but was giving in because Michael did and he wanted to make him happy. And Michael's reasoning for wanting to do it was pretty selfish and one-sided. Additionally, the way Michael led Corey on until that point, despite knowing he only wanted Victor and wasn't actually interested, was a douche move. And it wasn't really necessary for the plot; the whole threesome part could've easily been replaced with something else and still enabled what followed to happen.
Had it not been for that, I would have loved the book.
Between the theme of the plot—that Michael and Victor have this fated to be together destiny thing going on—Victor's possessiveness, and the way Michael was kind of all about Victor almost immediately, it just didn't make sense. It came off like Victor didn't want to do it but was giving in because Michael did and he wanted to make him happy. And Michael's reasoning for wanting to do it was pretty selfish and one-sided. Additionally, the way Michael led Corey on until that point, despite knowing he only wanted Victor and wasn't actually interested, was a douche move. And it wasn't really necessary for the plot; the whole threesome part could've easily been replaced with something else and still enabled what followed to happen.
Had it not been for that, I would have loved the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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