Restricted (The Verge, #1) by A.C. Thomas

Dec 14, 2020 * A Reader Obsessed * rated it liked it

Shelves: bi-ofy-gfy, hurt-comfort, bmbr, gentle-or-not-so-gentle-giants, sci-fi, 2020, bookphiles-educators-librarians, space-the-final-frontier, crime-mystery-suspense, lgbt

3.5 Hearts!

A not too shabby start!

As per the blurb, Ari Campbell is desperate to find his abducted brother Theo, and though he finds a pilot for a steep price, there’s no better man for the job than Orin Stone.

This begins with two people who are worlds apart, starkly on opposing ends of the social spectrum. Ari being from the upper crust Core, educated, respectable, and well off. Orin, a bastard, surviving on fumes in the outskirts of space known as the Verge.

Orin is crass, brash, and a shameles 3.5 Hearts!

A not too shabby start!

As per the blurb, Ari Campbell is desperate to find his abducted brother Theo, and though he finds a pilot for a steep price, there’s no better man for the job than Orin Stone.

This begins with two people who are worlds apart, starkly on opposing ends of the social spectrum. Ari being from the upper crust Core, educated, respectable, and well off. Orin, a bastard, surviving on fumes in the outskirts of space known as the Verge.

Orin is crass, brash, and a shameless flirt, immediately throwing Ari off kilter. It’s quickly “sweetheart, sugar, baby, beautiful” as Orin plays it rough and tumble tough, when deep down he’s the biggest teddy bear in the galaxy. Ari is the quintessential prudish virgin with self esteem issues regarding everything but his science-y profession. He’s twisted tighter than a corkscrew, and who better to unwind Ari free than the hulking man he’s just hired. One can well imagine what happens when these two are locked in a tiny spaceship all by their lonesome…

So yes, this moved fast. The lust and attraction instantaneous, the culmination even quicker when they have nothing but time on their hands in between their pit stops on various outposts gathering supplies and information. It’s a little over the top regarding their romantic progression, and know that plenty of insecurity, doubt, and jealousy abound where each thinks the other wouldn’t want him for the long haul. Regardless, both Ari and Orin put their best foot forward when push comes to shove as they come across several roadblocks and of course, realize they make a great team.

Despite my minor quibbles, the writing was spot on and so was the explicit smexy. I loved the world building and setting where the less respectable parts of space were treated like the wild wild west - territories that toed the line of the law, that had a shine of disreputability but only because they were struggling to get by by any means possible, skirting dreaded Enforcers that make their lives that much more difficult. All of this lent a certain atmospheric feel to it a’la Firefly (which I’ll never say no to), where the ability to travel the known universe doesn’t always equate sleek and slick.

Overall, I enjoyed myself where I eyed this through some rose tinted glasses. This ends with the main conflict solved as Ari and Orin inevitably find Theo, but it also leaves the reader wondering what the hell has Theo been up to with the mysterious mercenary Captain Park. I’m intrigued by this new author, and I won't be saying no to the next saga of space shenanigans when it comes out in the spring!

Thanks to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review

...more

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Nov 17, 2020 Sarah rated it it was amazing

Shelves: romance, finished-nov-2020

Such a great read! Amazing characterization, funny from the dedication on and so STEAMY... Ari and Orin are my new favorite couple. The story is quite a bit open ended, to be continued in Part 2, but I wasn't even mad about that, it was just too perfect a fit for my tastes otherwise. I regard this book ;-) ...more

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Oct 31, 2020 lauraღ rated it liked it

Shelves: lgbtqia, arcs, m-m, science-fiction-romance

There were minerals, after all, which had the ability to change under pressure. Develop new traits— greater strength, hardness, durability. Ari would take his inspiration from them.

A pretty fun science fiction romp! I'd classify it as light sci-fi, since we didn't get a lot of insight into technology and advancements, and most of the plot was about the relationship, which I'm definitely not complaining about. A buttoned-up professor from an elite world will do anything to save his abducted b ...more

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Oct 22, 2020 Kathy ★birdsong.books★ rated it liked it

Shelves: ebook, arcs

Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions stated in the review are my own.

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Rating: ★★★

Restricted is a science fiction novel about a scientist named Ari, who is on a mission to find his lost twin brother Theo. But in order to even get started on his mission he needs to use his spaceship and he's not much of a flyer. So he seeks out a pilot. Enter Orin, a pilot from the Verge and the ...more

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Oct 14, 2020 Sid Blackwood rated it it was amazing

I received this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book. It was such a fun (relatively) short read. Haven't read a fantasy romance in forever and this hit all the spots. Opposites attract, an interesting fantasy world, and the prospect of another romance.
There is nothing much to critique and if you love a bit of fantasy fun with a virgin hero (honestly a favorite), this is definitely for you.
I only wish we could have learned a bit more about Orin's history/origin. And I would ha ...more

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Oct 18, 2020 S a n d r a rated it really liked it

Shelves: lgbt, sci-fi

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This book got my attention by, not gonna lie, its cover. It's amazing! Simple yet catchy. And when I read the blurb it was clear I must read it: a romance across stars while trying to rescue a kidnapped twin! Sounded amazing. And it was.

Not being a native speaker, it was a little bit hard understanding every word Ari uses LOL Mostly at first, since as the book went I kind of got used to his speaking style and vocabulary. But it was not something I minded, ❊ Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook ❊

This book got my attention by, not gonna lie, its cover. It's amazing! Simple yet catchy. And when I read the blurb it was clear I must read it: a romance across stars while trying to rescue a kidnapped twin! Sounded amazing. And it was.

Not being a native speaker, it was a little bit hard understanding every word Ari uses LOL Mostly at first, since as the book went I kind of got used to his speaking style and vocabulary. But it was not something I minded, because it meant that he actually speaks differently than Orin and the other Verge people he meets during his adventure; it means the author achieved making both Ari and Orin actually different and not just because it's said so in the book but because they really are.

Ari and Orin meet when the first is looking for a pilot that can take him beyond the Verge to look for his twin brother Theo who him believes was abducted. As Orin has nothing to do, since he doesn't own his own vessel at the moemnt and Ari offers his as payment, he accepts without thinking twice. I liked their relationship, it's easygoing and they somewhat fit perfectly even if they are total opposites. Or maybe because of that. Ari is the classical naive, innocent and inexperienced guy and he doesn't value himself that much. Same happens with Orin, but in a different sense: his upbringing makes him devalue himself and he thinks he's stupid and undeserving of someone as purehearted as Ari.

During this adventure they will not only discover they are perfect for each other, but they will also get to understand they are more than they believe.

What dissapointed me a little bit was that I was expecting a little more action. There are things happening, but when you look back... there are not that many intense scenes. Mostly of them investigating and finding clues on what could have happened to Theo and also of them getting to know each other, if you know what I mean... But it's only towards the end when we get to see a little bit of action, and that's pretty short-lived.

With all, I can't wait to read the second book and discover more about Theo and his adventures. I hope to rediscover this character because he left a little bit sour taste in my mouth... But I guess it's because we don't get to know much about him. I hope, also, to see more of Ari and Orin in that second book.

I've received an e-ARC by publisher through Netgalley in exchange for honest review. ...more

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Oct 14, 2020 Erika rated it really liked it

Shelves: netgalley, ebook, arc, 2020

Thanks to Netgalley for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

This story was very entertaining. I loved the push and pull between Ari and Orin. This is the first book in the series, so the story line will continue, but this installment wraps up sufficiently (which is important, because no one likes a cliffhanger).

It was a fun, steampunk, sci-fi romp through space. I wanted to wrap Ari's character up in bubble wrap, but under his studious, awkward exterior, he found strength and ...more

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Nov 06, 2020 Mar rated it liked it

3 stars

I hate it when an author give us a one dimensional character that's supposed to be with a two dimensional character and tried to make us believe they're supposed to fall in love or have "natural chemistry". Omg did i dislike Orion! He was supposed to be sassy and corky and flirty but I just find him annoying!
Now Ari, he was so cute!!! His POV was so endearing to read! Loved him. (Alsp Theo! He made me want to read the next book!)
Overall, eventhough the world building needs some working b ...more

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Feb 26, 2021 JoAnn rated it really liked it

Shelves: mm, sci-fi

I can’t believe I forgot to review this! Now I’ve forgotten everything I wanted to say...

Anyways this was a sweet little sci-fi romance where you just wanted to shake the Ari and Orin and tell them to get their heads out of their asses!

I did think the beginning was a little awkward with the thick sexual tension right off the bat. But once it smoothed out things felt a little better and more natural.

Meh... well I guess that’s all you get. I’ve been immersed in novellas since I read this, and ha ...more

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Oct 28, 2020 Moraye Potgieter rated it really liked it

What a fun read with interesting characters and an engaging plot.
I was captivated from the first page and held captive till the last.

The author has created a fun sci-fi adventure with an added dose of romance. In this one there is nothing more romantic than riding off to save your brother with a strapping stranger.

I love how the author handled the characters relationship, it flowed with rest of the book, and at no stage seemed uncomfortable or forced.

It you are looking for a strapping rogue ...more

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Oct 19, 2020 AMHH rated it it was amazing

Dr. Aristotle Campbell’s twin brother has been kidnapped and he needs to mount a daring rescue. This of course, calls for a dashing and appropriately scruffy pilot, which is where Orin comes in. I was ready to love this novel based on the blurb alone, and the reality absolutely lived up to my expectations. The writing is good, with great balance between description and dialogue. The universe the story takes place in is complex: there are the pampered core worlds and increasingly rough around the ...more

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Oct 19, 2020 elise p marked it as dnf

Shelves: lgbtqia-rep, science-fiction, arc, adult

Thank you to NineStar Press and NetGalley for providing an ARC in return for an honest review!

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Nov 10, 2020 Darcy rated it it was ok

My thanks for this review go to NineStar Press LLC and NetGalley, for providing me with the ebook of this novel in return for an honest review.

Easy to read it may be, but A.C. Thomas’ Restricted lacks the kind of detail desired in the plotting and characterisation, in spite of some interesting narrative ideas that deserve to be built on a lot more in the future.

This isn’t my first reading experience of erotic LGBTQ+ fiction with elements of science-fiction in recent months. I am reminded of C. My thanks for this review go to NineStar Press LLC and NetGalley, for providing me with the ebook of this novel in return for an honest review.

Easy to read it may be, but A.C. Thomas’ Restricted lacks the kind of detail desired in the plotting and characterisation, in spite of some interesting narrative ideas that deserve to be built on a lot more in the future.

This isn’t my first reading experience of erotic LGBTQ+ fiction with elements of science-fiction in recent months. I am reminded of C.B. Lewis’ Time Waits, also released by the publisher NineStar Press. That book did something interesting with its characters though, by having one half of the central pairing come from a different time and having to readjust to modern society, as well as a plot and concept that was bigger than the journeys of the protagonist. That is not to say that there isn’t the potential for the plot to go in interesting directions, looking at the premise. There is the faintly steampunk tinge throughout, most notably on the planet of Britannia, as well as the intrigue of the mysterious Verge and the Restricted area. Rather than introducing these elements in a way that creates curiosity in the reader, they were presented in such a matter-of-fact way that it was almost as though the writer was slamming down the possibility or even the need to explain these to the audience. This would be acceptable if the central plot was so interesting that it would reduce these details to background knowledge anyway, but alas it wasn’t to be, and it was slightly frustrating to not get many details on the elements that could make this series stand out.

I must give props to the author for trying something different with the plotting. Instead of featuring one overarching narrative, there is a clear goal and this is only reached at the climax of the book, this being the eventual finding of the protagonist’s twin brother who was presumed missing. Before this, there are a series of skirmishes on worlds that very faintly resemble a developing narrative. They are moderately interesting and do raise more questions that are frustratingly left unanswered, but I ask myself whether these adventures were actually required in a book of this nature? More focus on a narrative in these chapters could have made them feel integral, rather than a distraction. These excursions are surrounded by multiple chapters spent on the ship with the two protagonists, with a tediously high number of chapters reserved for sexual acts between the pair. There is no real build-up in this narrative, as they do fall for each other very quickly, before they both play out the “They don’t feel the same way" trope. A couple of sex scenes in a book can really heighten the journey the central pairing has, but here it was almost as though the build-up was shunned in favour of more sex, which makes for an interesting choice stylistically but not one that feels necessary considering how light the plotting actually is.

Much like the narrative, the lack of detail attributed to the characterisation of the central pairing is frustrating, as it doesn’t allow me to really care about either character. For that reason, I wouldn’t describe either of the pair as successful. Ari is sweet at first in that fish-out-of-water way, which though played out multiple times still gives readers a sense of who he is. He does have a sort of a development arc in the closing chapters, but it doesn’t really have the impact it should. Conversely, I regret to admit that I didn’t understand the character of Orin at any point of the book. He should be, much like Ari, a bit of an archetypal character, in his case the cocky, charismatic and law-breaking pilot who actually cares about his fellow travelers. However, it felt like I was being told by multiple characters what his personality was truly like, courtesy of the audience surrogate role filled by Ari, but what was seen on the pages conflicted with that. More puzzling still was the way Orin spoke, almost ending every sentence being directed at his loved ones with words such as “darling" and “baby". This was the biggest reason why I struggled to believe his character, as no one would talk and act like that in our world, science-fiction or not, and regardless of what we were told by other characters. Though this book was set up as an epic love story between the pair, it wasn’t interesting enough to keep my attention.

Many critical points have been raised above, but this book does have some merits, most notably its readability. Its length is relatively short and it was also very easy and non-taxing to read, whilst being the type of book you can put down easily and understand where you have got up to upon picking it up again. There was also background information, which I named above, that intrigued me because the ideas were good, which made it all the more frustrating when nothing was explained beyond a surface level. This does mean that any sequel to this book (noted it has been described as the first in its series) has a lot they can build on and can go in any number of directions. The glossary of steampunk terms at the back of the book was also a nice touch, and it would be great if we can see this subgenre be more present and influential in future books in the series.

Ultimately, if you are looking for an easy-to-read book that can whisk you away for a few hours, then Restricted is for you, and you may well enjoy reading about the developing relationship between Ari and Orin. For me personally, it lacked the required detail in many areas to really make me invest in what was going on in front of me, so I probably will not be reading any future books in this series, but I appreciate the author for trying something different with this book. ...more

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Oct 23, 2020 Alyx Hurst rated it liked it

Shelves: lgbtq-representation, books-i-ve-reviewed, read-in-2020

I was given a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

As a lover of sci-fi and a lover of LGBTQ+ fiction, Restricted by A. C. Thomas sounded like it would be right up my street. The story follows Ari and Orin, a scientist and a pilot respectively, as they traverse space in search of Ari’s brother Theo, who has been abducted. They follow clues that Ari believes Theo left for him and grow closer as they travel, both of them doubting the other’s ability to love them w I was given a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

As a lover of sci-fi and a lover of LGBTQ+ fiction, Restricted by A. C. Thomas sounded like it would be right up my street. The story follows Ari and Orin, a scientist and a pilot respectively, as they traverse space in search of Ari’s brother Theo, who has been abducted. They follow clues that Ari believes Theo left for him and grow closer as they travel, both of them doubting the other’s ability to love them whilst also dealing with fighting people enforcing the law and others happily working against it.

I enjoyed the romance of this book. I am a huge fan of mutual pining, especially with a dual perspective like Restricted has that shows you the depth of each person’s feelings and doubts. I was rooting for Ari and Orin to talk to each other about their feelings for the whole book, and there were so many stomach flip inducing moments. The story is fun, and the characters we meet along the way are interesting.

With that being said, I struggled with the book’s setting. It almost seems unnecessary that this book is set in space, with how few elements of sci-fi play into it. The book has a steampunk vibe, which works well, but it lacked the rich world that I love to see in books set in space. There were no aliens whatsoever, and the planets that they visited on their journey weren’t described in enough detail to establish them in detail. Ari’s home planet is called Britannia, which left me confused - is this a world based on our own, where Britain colonised space? Or is this a completely separate world that just takes inspiration in place names from ours? Also, why and how did humans colonise space? How long ago? Why this area of space? Why is this oh so important boundary there? There are “enforcers” everywhere, and a very entrenched class system, but how does any of the politics of the world work? It felt like the book was an attempt at a translation of the British empire, but one in which the only people were British. Ari and Theo didn’t encounter any other spoken languages on their journey, and there was no-one who seemed to have been colonised. I would have liked to have seen a lot more of this explored, but I realise that’s because what I love about sci-fi - rich world building.

I also took slight issue with the fact that people with body modifications - or “augments” - are only portrayed as people who are morally grey at best or scary to the main characters. This came off as a tad ableist to me, and I would love to see some positive representations of people with augments, rather than just seeing them as people who are something other than human due to their additional parts.

If you’re looking for a fun and sexy tale of two men falling in love whilst in very close quarters that just so happens to be set in space, then I think you’ll love Restricted. But for me it just lacked the answers to the questions I had about the world Ari and Orin existed in.
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Nov 01, 2020 Caitlyn rated it it was amazing

**I received a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review**

5/5 stars for Restricted, you’re going to have to pry this book out of my cold, dead space hands- because I absolutely ADORE IT.

Aristotle Campbell (Ari for short) is tight laced, elegant and sheltered - he hasn’t experienced much outside of the safety of his home planet Britannia, and the even safer company of his own twin brother, Theo.

But when Theo goes missing, leaving behind mysterious clues that could possibly lead ...more

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Nov 01, 2020 Lucy rated it liked it

Shelves: m-m-romance, science-fiction-romance, 3-stars, bi-or-pansexual-main-character, lgbtqia-romance

I had a rocky start with Restricted. I found the first few chapters a little slow and the character of Orin grated on me. I didn't like his constant use of endearments, there were so many it felt false and it took me out of the story. I also didn't feel the connection between Ari and Orin to start with, they were so different - almost stereotypically so - that I struggled to understand what would keep them together.

What kept me reading was the plot and the world-building. A.C. Thomas has created I had a rocky start with Restricted. I found the first few chapters a little slow and the character of Orin grated on me. I didn't like his constant use of endearments, there were so many it felt false and it took me out of the story. I also didn't feel the connection between Ari and Orin to start with, they were so different - almost stereotypically so - that I struggled to understand what would keep them together.

What kept me reading was the plot and the world-building. A.C. Thomas has created a really interesting world that has parallels or is partly inspired by Victorian Britain (I think). With the Core representing the UK and the centre of the Empire, the Verge representing the colonies and therefore being a bit rougher and more unruly with its own culture and the Edge being anything beyond the verge/colonies. It's lawless, unknown and has lots of stories built up around it. Within the Edge is a place called The Restricted, which is meant to be the worst of the worse. There is definitely something going on in the Restricted and I wouldn't be surprised if it is a Core cover-up (that will hopefully be explored more in the next book!) Due to the set-up with Ari and Orin hunting for Ari's twin brother Theo we get to see a lot of the Verge as they search for clues. Each new place was intriguing and came with different challenges. I like how different each place was and I thought given the short length the world-building was really solid.

As I kept reading the romance between Ari and Orin grew on me. Orin in particular improved throughout the novel as the cocky, devil-may-care facade started to fade as he and Ari got closer. I wasn't a huge fan of the sex scenes mainly because of the power imbalance between them with Ari being super inexperience and Orin being super experienced. Sometimes that works for me but in this situation it felt weird - at times it felt like Ari inexperience was being feminized or fetished? I'm not really sure but it made me uncomfortable. That being said I love their non-sexual interactions, the scene when Ari steps in and helps Orin with some legal documents, the moment they agree to help each other learn new skills, the way neither thinks they are good another for the other. I love how they're differences became a point of learning and allowed both of them to grow as characters. I loved how protective Orin was of Ari - teaching him to shoot, giving him directions to navigate home.

The ending felt a little rushed (view spoiler) with the love declaration between Ari and Orin happening right at the end surrounded by action. It definitely leaves some mysteries unsolved and nicely transitioned into the next book (and the next romance!).

Overall I liked Restricted and I'm excited to read the next book when it comes out! Thanks NetGalley and NineStar Press for sending me an ARC in return for an honest review. ...more

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Nov 03, 2020 Lisa Scott-Thacker rated it it was amazing

Put simply, Restricted is a sci-fi romance centred on the developing relationship between sheltered scientist Aristotle ‘Ari’ Campbell and his hired pilot- rugged, smooth talking Orin Stone- as they attempt a dangerous journey into the darkest reaches of space, following clues left by Ari’s missing twin brother Theo in an attempt to track him down and bring him back to safety.

But it is so much more than that! Oh so much more!

The world built by A.C. Thomas is an utter delight. From a core planet Put simply, Restricted is a sci-fi romance centred on the developing relationship between sheltered scientist Aristotle ‘Ari’ Campbell and his hired pilot- rugged, smooth talking Orin Stone- as they attempt a dangerous journey into the darkest reaches of space, following clues left by Ari’s missing twin brother Theo in an attempt to track him down and bring him back to safety.

But it is so much more than that! Oh so much more!

The world built by A.C. Thomas is an utter delight. From a core planet with the elegance and refinement of Victorian Britain, where garters and cravats are considered essential, to a Wild Western Verge with saloons and brothels, so much is revealed through glimpses into these places, revealing as much about Ari and Orin’s lives as they do about the wider world. The secondary characters are all well fleshed out, adding real colour and depth to the settings. I found myself drawn to little details- the cracked screen of an old electronic pad in a shop; a door cut from the metal of a ship; the use of different scripts on documents- which told so much so simply.

The mystery of the story- the search for Theo- was incredibly compelling, the scattering of clues and the dangers that Ari and Orin find themselves in, had me devouring this book, eager to see what would happen next. Theo is an enthralling character even in his absence, and Ari’s relationship with his brother- and how willing he is to risk everything to save him- was just as interesting and well-written as the relationship between Ari and Orin.

But the main draw, of course, is the romance, and it’s here where the story really shines. The chemistry between Ari and Orin is utterly enchanting; I was hooked, instantly, by the way they were both presented, the author does a fantastic job in making their differences apparent through their fashions, their language, even down to their gestures, and it was easy to get attached to them both and to feel a genuine investment- I wanted them together from the start! I found myself flying through this story to see how their relationship would develop, and I was not disappointed! Their personal development is also a joy- you can really see that both characters are changed by their adventure and also their relationship with each other.
Orin’s genuine gentleness and sweetness- despite his outward presentation as a more rough and ready type- warmed my heart as much as it did Ari’s, and Ari’s sexual journey was a pleasure to read. It’s not a slow burn sexual relationship by any means, but the pacing and the characters reactions all felt entirely realistic. The sexual scenes were beautifully written, tender and romantic while still being wonderfully erotic.

I absolutely devoured this book, and I was so excited to read the preview for the next installment! There is no way I’m done with this world yet and it definitely left me eager for more.
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Oct 29, 2020 Charlotte rated it really liked it

Restricted is the first book I've read by A.C. Thomas. This is the first book in a series (I'm unsure of the series length), that features Dr. Aristotle Campbell. When he discovers that his twin brother is missing, Ari seeks out a pilot to take him across the verge. Hot on his brother's trail, Ari faces violence, intrigue, and danger... he also comes face to face with his own desires.

The future world created by Thomas is a bit of a mixed bag. Ari and his twin, Theo come from an academic setting. Restricted is the first book I've read by A.C. Thomas. This is the first book in a series (I'm unsure of the series length), that features Dr. Aristotle Campbell. When he discovers that his twin brother is missing, Ari seeks out a pilot to take him across the verge. Hot on his brother's trail, Ari faces violence, intrigue, and danger... he also comes face to face with his own desires.

The future world created by Thomas is a bit of a mixed bag. Ari and his twin, Theo come from an academic setting. The pilot Ari engages to help him in his search comes from a very different world. Orin was raised in a brothel. He's rough and ready, prepared for violence, and always trying to think one step ahead of the people around him.

The differences between the two main characters and their upbringings provide a lot of the conflict in the book. Ari has a lot of skills, but most of them don't serve him well once he leaves home. Orin becomes a needed ally at the same time as he becomes a source of attraction.

Ari is buttoned up, proper, and intelligent. He just can't pilot a ship so he's unable to take off after his missing brother on his own. His character is lovely: likable, intelligent, a bit clumsy. One of the striking things about Ari is his devotion to his twin. The moment he thinks that Theo may be in danger he charges forward to attempt to find him. For someone who has never lived a life of adventure, Ari takes to it quite well. He has moments of sheer terror but always seems to be able to summon up some bravery when it's needed.

As Ari explores a physical relationship with Orin, he begins to become emotionally involved. It's clear early on that Ari hasn't explored his sexual identity much and he does so with Orin. As their mission becomes closer to its end, Ari has to face the idea that he has forged a connection with Orin that he doesn't want to end.

There's not a lot of work-building in this novel. There are certainly a lot of details about the ships, and the places the characters visit that I would have liked to see expanded upon. There is a bit of POV switching which was a nice way of rounding out Orin's character.

This book sits closer to the erotica side of things. There's a plot but it's not an overly-detailed one. Much of the time the two characters are getting to know each other physically. I'm looking forward to the second book in the series. From the teaser I read, it looks as though it's going to be Theo's story! ...more

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Nov 02, 2020 Jonas Sheckler rated it it was amazing

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. This review contains some small spoilers.

Restricted is a gay romance set against the backdrop of a futuristic, steampunk-esque space society. A.C. Thomas crafts a story with richly developed characters and an interesting space society that bridges Victorian elements of the inner core planet of Brittania with classic wild west themes found in the Verge colonies.

The reader is taken on a journey following Dr. Aristotle Campbell as he hires rough-and-rugged Orin Stone to pilot him past the force-fie This review contains some small spoilers.

Restricted is a gay romance set against the backdrop of a futuristic, steampunk-esque space society. A.C. Thomas crafts a story with richly developed characters and an interesting space society that bridges Victorian elements of the inner core planet of Brittania with classic wild west themes found in the Verge colonies.

The reader is taken on a journey following Dr. Aristotle Campbell as he hires rough-and-rugged Orin Stone to pilot him past the force-field of the Verge and into the deep, dark of space. Ari, in search of his kidnapped twin brother Theo, is thrown completely out of his comfort zone of the protected Core and into the backwater colonies near the Verge.

In a story that is half-mystery, half-adventure, and wholly romantic, I found myself falling in love with these strongly developed and amazing characters. Ari is this cute academic who hasn’t been outside the Core. He’s incredibly likable for being so innocent and straight-laced, perhaps in part because of his dedication to recovering his twin. Ari’s insecurities and self-awareness (and lack of awareness of those around him) make him very relatable. His likability is also in part due to his chemistry with the street-smart (space-smart?) Orin. Orin holds a level of mystery that we uncover bit by bit as the story unfolds. His friendship with tavern-owner Sally, his origins from being born and raised in a brothel, his past marriage with a stern Enforcer (the police in this series), and his ability to complete complex mathematical calculations in his head all combine to create a character with serious depth and charm.

The pacing of the story is great and I couldn’t tear myself away from reading once I started. I ended up reading it all in one night and stayed up as late as I could to finish it. I really enjoyed the writing style of this book, and I haven’t experienced that kind of connection to a piece of writing in a very long time. There is a good bit of erotica written in and these scenes are not just sexy but also incredibly romantic, even as the characters deny their feelings. The twists and turns of the plot and the obstacles Ari and Orin face make for an absolutely interesting story that keeps you on the edge of your seat and wondering what exactly is going to come next.

If you’re looking for an interesting, dynamic romance between two really amazing characters set in an interesting space society, you will absolutely love Restricted! ...more

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Oct 22, 2020 Susanna rated it liked it

I have a strong feeling that this book began its life as Han/Luke fanfic and was then thinly disguised as something else to avoid lawsuits from Disney. We’ve all been there, so I’m not judging; just observing.

We have a naïve, inexperienced younger man, Ari, in search of his twin (brother), and an older, more experienced scruffy space pilot Orin. Ari hires Orin to fly his spaceship so that he can go after his abducted twin Theo. There’s instant lust between the two, which they then act on at ever I have a strong feeling that this book began its life as Han/Luke fanfic and was then thinly disguised as something else to avoid lawsuits from Disney. We’ve all been there, so I’m not judging; just observing.

We have a naïve, inexperienced younger man, Ari, in search of his twin (brother), and an older, more experienced scruffy space pilot Orin. Ari hires Orin to fly his spaceship so that he can go after his abducted twin Theo. There’s instant lust between the two, which they then act on at every opportunity in the seclusion of the spaceship. I presume the title of the book comes from that seclusion; otherwise it makes no sense.

There’s very little plot. The pair lands on several planets to look for Theo and has adventures on them and then they leave. Some twists reflect the original material, like Orin having dumped a ship full of cargo when he was captured by the Enforcers, the inter-planetary bogeymen. The focus is on the two of them falling in love. And then it ends. It’s a fairly amusing ending and saves a lot, even though it sort of voids the entire story.

World and character building are minimal. The author has clearly been taught that they should start as close to the story’s beginning as possible, and it does just that without any background info about the place, time or people. We’re given titbits about the characters along the way, but almost nothing about the world they live in. There are rich core planets shaped like Victorian England—with parchments for some odd reason, considering there’s shortage of water and plenty of electric communication devices. Then there’s the Verge, which I presume is a ring of systems around the Core that resemble Wild West à la Firefly with saloons and brothels, but governed by the laws and enforcers of the Core. And then there are illegal and lawless systems outside, where our heroes are headed to. That’s pretty much it, but since the main focus is in the bedroom, it doesn’t really matter.

This is a nice romance with great sex scenes, so I gave it three stars. It’s even better if you imagine the pair as your favourite scruffy-looking nerf herder and the best bush pilot in the Outer Rim Territories. If you like M/M erotic romance, this is for you.

I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more

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Nov 04, 2020 Veronica of V's Reads rated it it was amazing

4.5 Stars

Dr. Aristotle Campbell is a resident of Brittania, one of the Core planets stuck within the Verge, a force field that prevents marauders from attacking the main planets. He’s an introverted geological scientist, who is dedicated to his outgoing twin brother Dr. Theo Campbell, which is why Ari is now frantic. Theo has been kidnapped by a ruffian from the Restricted Section beyond the Verge. Ari screws up all his gumption and pledges his own spaceship to a Verge pilot, Orin Stone, who pro 4.5 Stars

Dr. Aristotle Campbell is a resident of Brittania, one of the Core planets stuck within the Verge, a force field that prevents marauders from attacking the main planets. He’s an introverted geological scientist, who is dedicated to his outgoing twin brother Dr. Theo Campbell, which is why Ari is now frantic. Theo has been kidnapped by a ruffian from the Restricted Section beyond the Verge. Ari screws up all his gumption and pledges his own spaceship to a Verge pilot, Orin Stone, who promises he can get Ari out to the Restricted sector.

Orin Stone is a “Verge trash” man who happens to be a huge and imposing person, compared to lithe and delicate Ari. He’s so uninhibited and coarse, and shocking in his open desire for Ari, whom Orin finds to be completely appealing–even more so because Ari is a complete innocent.

This is a unique and engaging world that’s a bit of a mix with Victorian sensibilities and the space exploration tech. Ari and Orin develop a sweet friendship, that Orin is quick to offer more. Ari is so tentative, and concerned about his lack of experience, and his fears surrounding Theo. Ari thinks he’s a fraidy cat, especially since he’s always allowed outgoing Theo to lead the way. Orin believes Ari to be so brave, though, and his constant reassurances give Ari the confidence to take what he wants, for himself.

I really loved the story, and the originality of the plot twists. It was such a fun and engaging adventure, watching Ari develop his inner strength, and fall head over heels for Orin, who doesn’t believe himself worthy. This is a dual-narrated story, so we do get into Orin’s head a bit, and that was so sweet, because we can easily see how captivated he is by Ari, and the admiration he has for the ship–that he names Delilah. His bawdy humor cracks through Ari’s refined persona and really settles Ari’s nerves by his sheer confidence and competency as a pilot. It’s a fun love story for these mismatched lovers, but they are both dreading crossing into the Restricted Space–because Ari’s plan is to leave Orin and the ship, to save Theo himself. The resolution is so joyful, when Ari and Theo reunite and Orin finds that he’s not surplus to the situation. I cannot WAIT for Theo’s love story… ...more

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Jan 18, 2021 Moa rated it it was amazing

Okay, this was positively DELIGHTFUL. (Fair warning, this might contain what counts as spoilers.)

I have always drifted towards fiction that is character-oriented, because to me the characters and how they interact with each other is the most important parts of a story. And this book was the perfect example of that! Both main characters are so well-written that I could easily imagine them doing and saying everything they did and said. They felt real to me from the very beginning.

Ari is precious a Okay, this was positively DELIGHTFUL. (Fair warning, this might contain what counts as spoilers.)

I have always drifted towards fiction that is character-oriented, because to me the characters and how they interact with each other is the most important parts of a story. And this book was the perfect example of that! Both main characters are so well-written that I could easily imagine them doing and saying everything they did and said. They felt real to me from the very beginning.

Ari is precious and low-key brave and Orin is simultaneously confident and not thinking very highly of himself and together, they must be PROTECTED, because they deserve all the best. They are both brilliant in their respective fields ... and they're both lovable idiots. They deserve each other, in so many ways, they really really do. I love them so much.

The universe that this book builds for us is a rough one, especially around the edges where most of the plot takes place. It's described and written in such a way that it's easy to imagine, and it all feels real, and is the perfect setting for the story. The story, of course, being a quest to find Ari's abducted brother. And already in the first couple of pages, I was hooked on that. Because it was so clear to me that Ari was out of his element and woefully unprepared for the journey he was about to embark on. He didn't let that stop him, though, which immidiately made me like him.

And Orin? The rough pilot who could have taken advantage of Ari's cluelessness? The fact that he basically melted like butter and resolved to Protect Ari within the first couple of minutes after meeting him, that made me soft for him too.

These two are so very different from each other, but fit so well together. They've been through a lot in a short amount of time, and it was a joy to read their adventure and journey together. I hope for more of them in the future!

All in all; highly recommended, a very good read. You really can't help but love these two.

Oh, and I received an ARC and this is my honest review. ...more

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Nov 10, 2020 Emma Caylan rated it it was amazing

**I received a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review**

Full transparency, I was also one of the original beta readers for this book as well.

That being said, it really does warm my heart to see how far this little book has come! From their first Meet Cute to the Big Damn Romantic Happy Ending, I was having a blast the entire ride from start to finish. I've been a sucker for space-western aesthetics since bingeing Firefly as a kid, and the setting here really scratched that it ...more

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Oct 29, 2020 Stephanie Panach rated it liked it

I really liked this Steam-punk/sci-fi/LGBTQ adventure/romance. One descriptor is definitely not enough for this book! Ari is an academic and seems very proper - think Victorian England level of proper. His identical brother, by all appearances, has been kidnapped by an unknown person. He left a few clues that Ari has been trying to follow in hopes of finding his brother. He needs a pilot to help him get into areas that are on the outer edges of civilization. Orin Stone is a good pilot and has a ...more

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Oct 19, 2020 Thieving Magpie rated it it was ok

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Oct 25, 2020 Alicja rated it liked it

Big thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my e-copy. A.C. Thomas’ ‘Restricted’ follows Ari, Dr Aristotle Campbell, who’s searching for his twin brother. Leaving his home world, Britannia, he searches for Theo through the galaxy with the assistance of the pilot, Orin in exchange for the ship.

I really liked the premise of this short novel – a short sci-fi with LGBTQIA elements and I was sold. But unfortunately, I felt a bit disappointed with the story. ‘Restricted’ throws us straight into the ...more

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Oct 31, 2020 Sameena Jehanzeb added it

Shelves: science-fiction, romance, dnf, lgbt

I tried for 37% to read this book but I am giving up now. This is just a lot of sex without much story which I could have dealt with if I did not full heartedly dislike both protagonists. Orin – the big rough guy with a soft spot – for his inflationary use of nicknames like Honey, Sugar, Sweetheart, Pretty, Beautiful, Baby, Baby, Baby .... topped with repeatedly saying "Just like that, baby. So perfect for me". Ari on the other hand – the tender virgin professor – I dislike for his stupid commen ...more

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Nov 01, 2020 Sarah rated it it was amazing

I read this in one sitting. At one point I only remembered to blink when my eyes got dry to the point of discomfort. I was lucky enough to receive an advance review copy in exchange for a candid review, so let me share my thoughts on this book with you now.

You may know that the first incarnation of the fax machine was invented in 1843, which was the same year the first wagon made it across the Oregon Trail. I bring this up because it illustrates that people can be living in different centuries, ...more

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Dec 09, 2020 CJ rated it liked it

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

When I saw this novel I was intrigued: A man sets out to find his twin beyond civilized space with the help of a roguish pilot? And listed LGBTQIA+? Count me in!

What did I think? Well...

My reaction is my fault. I should've paid closer attention to the romance classification. Was it bad? No. It was an okay queer ebook romance in space with major western overtones that reminded me a bit of the short-lived and muc ...more

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Feb 05, 2021 Jessica Jett rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Review for Restricted by A.C. Thomas

I've been in a book slump for a very, very long time and haven't finished a book in what seems like forever. I finally started this book a few days and began reading whenever I had a few minutes free. I absolutely loved the premise (which is why I bought it to begin with) but the characters, humor and action were what kept me so enthralled that I sat down last night and finished this book in 3 hours because who needs sleep, obviously not me. The well written s ...more

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