What do you think?
Rate this book
Hammer & Air
There will always be a Hammer and an Air...
Graeme and Eirn have no words for what they are to each other. Children, clinging together in a crowded orphanage; friends, battling back to back in a school yard; and bedmates, finally bridging the gap between sleeping next to a body and allowing it to touch you in the night—all of these roles are summed up by just their names: Hammer and Air.
The innocent exploration of their newest roles is brutally marred when a violent, ill-tempered master threatens Eirn, and Eirn's "Hammer" kills the man in a fair fight. The two run off into the wide world with only each other for safety. It's difficult to forge a good life with only a blacksmith's hammer and a printer's cleverness, but together, Hammer and Eirn will learn to negotiate the dangers of magic and motion, of sex, obsession, and tenderness, and of the word that can make sense of it all—one word they must earn for themselves.
Graeme and Eirn have no words for what they are to each other. Children, clinging together in a crowded orphanage; friends, battling back to back in a school yard; and bedmates, finally bridging the gap between sleeping next to a body and allowing it to touch you in the night—all of these roles are summed up by just their names: Hammer and Air.
The innocent exploration of their newest roles is brutally marred when a violent, ill-tempered master threatens Eirn, and Eirn's "Hammer" kills the man in a fair fight. The two run off into the wide world with only each other for safety. It's difficult to forge a good life with only a blacksmith's hammer and a printer's cleverness, but together, Hammer and Eirn will learn to negotiate the dangers of magic and motion, of sex, obsession, and tenderness, and of the word that can make sense of it all—one word they must earn for themselves.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2010
7 people are currently reading
602 people want to read
About the author
Amy Lane
204 books3,490 followersAmy Lane dodges an EDJ, mothers four children, and writes the occasional book. She, her brood, and her beloved mate, Mack, live in a crumbling mortgage in Citrus Heights, California, which is riddled with spiders, cats, and more than its share of fancy and weirdness. Feel free to visit her at www.greenshill.com orwww.writerslane.blogspot.com, where she will ride the buzz of receiving your e-mail until her head swells and she can no longer leave the house.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
January 27, 2014
WeepReaper 3: You'll Stop With the Crying When You're Dead.
Amy Lane makes me weep.
Gives me erections.
Makes me bray like a donkey, with teh lulz.
Amy Lane breaks my heart.
Most of the time, she remembers to put it back together again.
In between is some kick-ass storytelling.
You could do worse than to begin reading Amy Lane here, with this book. Or any other. Because she's that good.
*cough*
Because she were that good, aye.
[Like. A. Donkey. Swear to god.]
Amy Lane makes me weep.
Gives me erections.
Makes me bray like a donkey, with teh lulz.
Amy Lane breaks my heart.
Most of the time, she remembers to put it back together again.
In between is some kick-ass storytelling.
You could do worse than to begin reading Amy Lane here, with this book. Or any other. Because she's that good.
*cough*
Because she were that good, aye.
[Like. A. Donkey. Swear to god.]
June 5, 2017
It took me a little while to get into this book. At first, the grammar was very difficult to read and it bothered me. I also wasn't sure I could get into the fantasy realm that Amy Lane created. It seemed a bit boring and not special enough. However, as the book went on I became completely enthralled with the beautiful story of Hammer and Eirn.
This is only my second book by Amy Lane (I know, the horror!) and I am shocked at her ability to both completely turn me on and wow me with romance. It isn't often that I'm near tears at the gorgeous, loving tenderness of the characters, while also gripping my Kindle in lust. It is a grown-up's erotic fairy tail come true.
I usually am not a menage fan (not romantic to me) but Amy Lane managed to take it and make it not only sexy but purposeful and important. Bravo to her for pulling that off and making it make sense.
This book left me with such a content feeling. I loved it; it was a special read for me.
This is only my second book by Amy Lane (I know, the horror!) and I am shocked at her ability to both completely turn me on and wow me with romance. It isn't often that I'm near tears at the gorgeous, loving tenderness of the characters, while also gripping my Kindle in lust. It is a grown-up's erotic fairy tail come true.
I usually am not a menage fan (not romantic to me) but Amy Lane managed to take it and make it not only sexy but purposeful and important. Bravo to her for pulling that off and making it make sense.
This book left me with such a content feeling. I loved it; it was a special read for me.
June 29, 2011
I checked the listing at Dreamspinner Press. I checked how the book is listed at GoodReads. I even read a few of the reviews at GR before starting this book. I don't normally care for a fairy tale type novel, but I have read a few really good stories by Amy Lane (and one not-so-good story) and was eager to live again in a world she has created.
However... I really am upset that nowhere, especially not at the Dreamspinner Press site, was this book listed as having menage. As a central theme, even! With a touch of beastiality at that! I was rocking along, thinking the novel was a four star work, seeing it begining to slide a bit towards three stars because the pacing was not very good, when: Bam! Halfway through the text, suddenly there is a strong menage theme introduced. I literally felt ill reading the first scene with the prince/king/bear in bed with Hammer and Air, and it will probably take me quite a while to recover from it. You think I'm exaggerating? No, I'm not. I *really* don't like reading menage, and I really resent this story not being clearly listed as such from the publisher. I would *never* have bought it otherwise.
I also really don't like that this theme emerges in a surprising way so deep into the story. Oh, there is the mention of "be careful what you wish for," and the clear indication there would be a prince vying for Air, against Hammer, and that Air would have a choice. But that didn't necessarily imply that the tussle would be a sexual, physical one as well as on other levels. I have a really bad taste in my mouth because of this.
It's not just that I don't like menage. It's that the book wasn't listed as such and the author didn't clearly set the tone or obvious thematic underlyings of the book from the beginning. I've picked up books before that I knew wouldn't suit my tastes by the first twenty pages, and I've wisely put them down. Here, I feel seduced and betrayed by both author and publisher.
Two stars to this book that pretends to be one thing and is another, with pacing that had my eyes glazing over before I was shocked into a truly dirty feeling by a bear/man rape that was sort of consensual and sort of not. I am upset.
However... I really am upset that nowhere, especially not at the Dreamspinner Press site, was this book listed as having menage. As a central theme, even! With a touch of beastiality at that! I was rocking along, thinking the novel was a four star work, seeing it begining to slide a bit towards three stars because the pacing was not very good, when: Bam! Halfway through the text, suddenly there is a strong menage theme introduced. I literally felt ill reading the first scene with the prince/king/bear in bed with Hammer and Air, and it will probably take me quite a while to recover from it. You think I'm exaggerating? No, I'm not. I *really* don't like reading menage, and I really resent this story not being clearly listed as such from the publisher. I would *never* have bought it otherwise.
I also really don't like that this theme emerges in a surprising way so deep into the story. Oh, there is the mention of "be careful what you wish for," and the clear indication there would be a prince vying for Air, against Hammer, and that Air would have a choice. But that didn't necessarily imply that the tussle would be a sexual, physical one as well as on other levels. I have a really bad taste in my mouth because of this.
It's not just that I don't like menage. It's that the book wasn't listed as such and the author didn't clearly set the tone or obvious thematic underlyings of the book from the beginning. I've picked up books before that I knew wouldn't suit my tastes by the first twenty pages, and I've wisely put them down. Here, I feel seduced and betrayed by both author and publisher.
Two stars to this book that pretends to be one thing and is another, with pacing that had my eyes glazing over before I was shocked into a truly dirty feeling by a bear/man rape that was sort of consensual and sort of not. I am upset.
December 15, 2010
I wasn't kidding when I marked the spoiler warning - I'm going to talk about the ending :)
The thing about Amy Lane's writing is that you become attached to the characters without even realizing it. It's always a growing and learning experience - you fall in love with them as they do each other. I didn't understand how into the book I really was until they grew old and died together and I found myself bawling like a baby, mourning their loss. Happy tears that they got their whole lives together, but still tears.
Wonderfully written - the characters stay true to themselves with their own way of speaking that never changes. The love between the two is palpable. Excellent job, Amy. But I must say I'm glad I had a fluff book to read immediately following.
The thing about Amy Lane's writing is that you become attached to the characters without even realizing it. It's always a growing and learning experience - you fall in love with them as they do each other. I didn't understand how into the book I really was until they grew old and died together and I found myself bawling like a baby, mourning their loss. Happy tears that they got their whole lives together, but still tears.
Wonderfully written - the characters stay true to themselves with their own way of speaking that never changes. The love between the two is palpable. Excellent job, Amy. But I must say I'm glad I had a fluff book to read immediately following.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2016
A sweet, but odd, fairytale. I had mixed feelings about this story, and my temporary ratings were all over the place. Hammer and Eirn's love was so beautiful and passionate and I couldn't help falling in love with them, but the magic? Not my favorite. I don't mind magic in stories, but this was too convenient. And the bear? Also not for me. I almost dnf'd a few times, but then I'd read something like this:
...the reason we need words to define our hearts is that our hearts are lonely, vulnerable, bare and beating things, and sometimes, they do not always know truth unless they hear it.
and I'd keep reading, wanting to see what happened to Hammer and Eirn.
I was happy with the ending, but I wasn't as emotionally affected as other readers were.
...the reason we need words to define our hearts is that our hearts are lonely, vulnerable, bare and beating things, and sometimes, they do not always know truth unless they hear it.
and I'd keep reading, wanting to see what happened to Hammer and Eirn.
I was happy with the ending, but I wasn't as emotionally affected as other readers were.
November 18, 2010
AMY LANE - HAMMER AND AIR
4 ½***** STAR
Amy Lane again has again written a truly inspiring Fantasy Story. World building has become synonymous with many of her stories. Greens Hill in the Little Goddess Series, The Land of Clough in Bitter Moon l and ll, and the last one that comes to mind is the land in Truth in the Dark.
For her new entry Eirn and Graeme, came together as children in an orphanage. Eirn was 6 and Graeme a year older. Grame told Eirn he was but a wisp of Air. Graeme was more stout and hit like Hammer. Hence their nicknames. The boys became fast friends after Eirn was saved from a beating by the older kids. By eighteen , Hammer and Eirn discovered each other sexually and consummated their relationship , declaring their intent to be with no other. All was well until Hammer would reach his 19th birthday.
They worked at the Smithies and it was the plan for Hammer to reach majority, and with his Mastership of the Smithies, he would rent a flat above the Inn and they could live together.
It was Eirn’s half day at work and he was looking forward to meet Hammer for a picnic. The other apprentice working there mentioned that Master Will was taking over the business and his heart sank with the knowledge that he would have to leave because of the mans desire for pretty young boys. He comes to meet Hammer swollen and bloody from being hurt by Master Will. Air relates his thoughts and fears to Hammer. Air is told to go back to the orphanage to pack his things. No one would ever touch Eirn while Hammer was there to protect him. Hammer goes to see Master Will for beating Eirn. He comes back frightened and bloody, as he has killed Will in the fight and has to leave town immediately..
The rest of the story is their adventure as only Ms Lane can write. Together they find magic. This story is Magic as well. Ms Lane brings out the best in us all sometimes by her writing. This would be one I would say is a keeper, of two innocents and it does your heart good that they are blessed with finally able to communicate both in body and words. It’s like finding your heart when you find your home….
This story was a tough road at first, grittier than some of her other stories, but a great read
Review by G Lakritz
Paranormal Romance Guild Senior Reviewer
4 ½***** STAR
Amy Lane again has again written a truly inspiring Fantasy Story. World building has become synonymous with many of her stories. Greens Hill in the Little Goddess Series, The Land of Clough in Bitter Moon l and ll, and the last one that comes to mind is the land in Truth in the Dark.
For her new entry Eirn and Graeme, came together as children in an orphanage. Eirn was 6 and Graeme a year older. Grame told Eirn he was but a wisp of Air. Graeme was more stout and hit like Hammer. Hence their nicknames. The boys became fast friends after Eirn was saved from a beating by the older kids. By eighteen , Hammer and Eirn discovered each other sexually and consummated their relationship , declaring their intent to be with no other. All was well until Hammer would reach his 19th birthday.
They worked at the Smithies and it was the plan for Hammer to reach majority, and with his Mastership of the Smithies, he would rent a flat above the Inn and they could live together.
It was Eirn’s half day at work and he was looking forward to meet Hammer for a picnic. The other apprentice working there mentioned that Master Will was taking over the business and his heart sank with the knowledge that he would have to leave because of the mans desire for pretty young boys. He comes to meet Hammer swollen and bloody from being hurt by Master Will. Air relates his thoughts and fears to Hammer. Air is told to go back to the orphanage to pack his things. No one would ever touch Eirn while Hammer was there to protect him. Hammer goes to see Master Will for beating Eirn. He comes back frightened and bloody, as he has killed Will in the fight and has to leave town immediately..
The rest of the story is their adventure as only Ms Lane can write. Together they find magic. This story is Magic as well. Ms Lane brings out the best in us all sometimes by her writing. This would be one I would say is a keeper, of two innocents and it does your heart good that they are blessed with finally able to communicate both in body and words. It’s like finding your heart when you find your home….
This story was a tough road at first, grittier than some of her other stories, but a great read
Review by G Lakritz
Paranormal Romance Guild Senior Reviewer
February 25, 2013
4.5 Stars
I loved this little fairy tale of Amy Lane’s. It’s short, sweet, very quirky and magical. If you like fairytales I think you’ll love this. Eirn and Hammer are great characters and being with them from their time in the orphanage to their senior years was heart warming, the love they shared just jumped out at me on every page, I knew these two just had to be together forever. It does really surprise me that so much of their lives is packed in this small book without making me feel like the story was rushed, to me its complete.
I think I should mention there are a few of things that raised my eyebrow.... the amount of sex, the ménage and the Bear, yes a Bear and I just have no idea what to say about him. o.O
You definitely have to suspend your beliefs with this one but then don’t you have to do that with all Fairy tales?
December 14, 2014
A nicely written "fairy tale" romance of two orphans who grow up together at the orphanage, grow to become each other's worlds and when faced with the repercussions of a crime, flee together towards an unknown future, or unknown except for one thing--no matter what, they will stay together. No matter what.
I'm not an angst fan, especially with contemporaries, so there's a section of Lane's works I can't dive into. Her lighter or speculative work though is open season for me, and I'm always really impressed how easily she shifts between genre and narrative voice, while still also writing a good, compelling story.
This one was a nice imaginative story, written in a style similar to a fairy tale (except with more on-page sex.)
And I totally cried during the last section. For nervous readers, the ending is totally fine, but just a little emotional.
I'm not an angst fan, especially with contemporaries, so there's a section of Lane's works I can't dive into. Her lighter or speculative work though is open season for me, and I'm always really impressed how easily she shifts between genre and narrative voice, while still also writing a good, compelling story.
This one was a nice imaginative story, written in a style similar to a fairy tale (except with more on-page sex.)
And I totally cried during the last section. For nervous readers, the ending is totally fine, but just a little emotional.
December 30, 2012
This book contains what is quite possibly the most romantic sentence I've ever read:
Lovely writing from Amy Lane, as always. This is the tale of two young men, Hammer and Eirn, who meet in an orphanage and forge a lifelong bond. After they are forced to flee their town, they encounter an enchanted cottage and a mysterious bear prince who tests their loyalty. I really loved the surreal feeling of this story, with its peculiar magic and earthy eroticism. It held me in thrall and made me weep. Just beautiful.
I woke up every morning feeling as though I had been branded by him, the heat of his body having seeped through my skin like the smell of leather and now I wore Hammer as my own personal tattoo.
Lovely writing from Amy Lane, as always. This is the tale of two young men, Hammer and Eirn, who meet in an orphanage and forge a lifelong bond. After they are forced to flee their town, they encounter an enchanted cottage and a mysterious bear prince who tests their loyalty. I really loved the surreal feeling of this story, with its peculiar magic and earthy eroticism. It held me in thrall and made me weep. Just beautiful.
January 4, 2011
3.5 I loved Hammer and Eirn as characters and as a couple, but large parts of the plot here -- the dynamics with the bear prince -- just didn't work all that well for me. There didn't seem to be any real reason for either Hammer or Eirn keep including him in their bed, not even any true attraction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2012
I wasn't sure what to expect as this my first book by Amy Lane, but I enjoyed it immensely and I am annoyed at myself for waiting so long to read it !!! A beautiful tale.
February 17, 2013
"The reason we need words to define our hearts is that our hearts are lonely, vulnerable, bare and beating things, and sometimes, they do not always know truth unless they hear it."
A very solid 4 stars.
I loved this book, and if it hadn't been for the stuff between about 54 to 84%, I would have 5 starred it... despite Lane insisting on using 'were' for 'was.' That was super annoying, though I got used to the dialect fairly quickly.
This is the story of two young boys of humble backgrounds who find in one another their soul mates, and who teach a king what it means to love.
I wasn't crazy about the third of the book involving the . I could see why this was written in, as Hammer really did have a difficult time accepting Eirn's devotion to him... but I didn't like it.
"You’re mine. I couldn’t love you if you weren’t bigger than princes and braver than knights. You’re perfect. You’re my Hammer, forever and ever and ever….”
However, what I connected to and was so touched by was Hammer and Eirn's very pure, unconditional, and I would even say innocent, love for each other. I was also charmed by the way they embraced the lost parts of their childhood while living in their enchanted cabin; it healed them both physically and emotionally. My heart cheered when Eirn was finally able to articulate what it was between them that made their bond so special.
Things did start to feel a bit rushed as the story moved towards the end, and that came out of nowhere - WTF was up with that?!
I found the ending itself bittersweet - it was satisfying, but it saddened me, as well. At least I had the satisfaction of knowing they .
Happily ever after, indeed.
P.S. Quite possibly the only time I've ever put the same book on my 'flufftasticness' and 'non-con' shelves. O_o
A very solid 4 stars.
I loved this book, and if it hadn't been for the stuff between about 54 to 84%, I would have 5 starred it... despite Lane insisting on using 'were' for 'was.' That was super annoying, though I got used to the dialect fairly quickly.
This is the story of two young boys of humble backgrounds who find in one another their soul mates, and who teach a king what it means to love.
I wasn't crazy about the third of the book involving the . I could see why this was written in, as Hammer really did have a difficult time accepting Eirn's devotion to him... but I didn't like it.
"You’re mine. I couldn’t love you if you weren’t bigger than princes and braver than knights. You’re perfect. You’re my Hammer, forever and ever and ever….”
However, what I connected to and was so touched by was Hammer and Eirn's very pure, unconditional, and I would even say innocent, love for each other. I was also charmed by the way they embraced the lost parts of their childhood while living in their enchanted cabin; it healed them both physically and emotionally. My heart cheered when Eirn was finally able to articulate what it was between them that made their bond so special.
Things did start to feel a bit rushed as the story moved towards the end, and that came out of nowhere - WTF was up with that?!
I found the ending itself bittersweet - it was satisfying, but it saddened me, as well. At least I had the satisfaction of knowing they .
Happily ever after, indeed.
P.S. Quite possibly the only time I've ever put the same book on my 'flufftasticness' and 'non-con' shelves. O_o
January 3, 2013
I cannot express into words how beautiful, sad, and emotionally taxing reading this book was. The relationship between Eirn and Hammer (Graeme) was just too beautiful, and it was clear that from the start they loved each other deeply, and, as time went by in the book, their love only grew and blossomed as they learned more and more about each other and themselves.
I truly can't tell you how heartbreakingly bittersweet the ending was. And fuck. I was crying so bloody much. Literally, I have never cried so much for a book, I don't know if I was feeling rather emotional that day or what, but I cried so hard. Then I reread the ending straight after and cried again. Just as hard. Then I was complaining to a friend how sad I felt because of the book, then cried again because I thought of it. Then I explained the story to my friend and cried. For the fourth time. In the span of about 10 or less hours, and for the same book.
Tell me that isn't a record.
Anyway, this book is DEFINITELY recommended for any who enjoy this genre, and even those who may want to try it (though the sex isn't exactly mild).
Now excuse me while I mope over this book.
I truly can't tell you how heartbreakingly bittersweet the ending was. And fuck. I was crying so bloody much. Literally, I have never cried so much for a book, I don't know if I was feeling rather emotional that day or what, but I cried so hard. Then I reread the ending straight after and cried again. Just as hard. Then I was complaining to a friend how sad I felt because of the book, then cried again because I thought of it. Then I explained the story to my friend and cried. For the fourth time. In the span of about 10 or less hours, and for the same book.
Tell me that isn't a record.
Anyway, this book is DEFINITELY recommended for any who enjoy this genre, and even those who may want to try it (though the sex isn't exactly mild).
Now excuse me while I mope over this book.
December 18, 2010
Amy Lane always delivers in my book. This is the sweet romantic fairytale like story of Hammer and Eirn. It follows them through a journey that defines their lives and helps then discover what is really important. As I read I kept waiting for that really awful, horrible, terrible thing to happen. Something that would thrown a wrench in the tale, but truly, it wasn't there. Just a natural unfolding of these two men as they interact with life. It was well done. Like a warm, soft blanket on a cold day. I can't say it enough, I love Amy's writing!
February 17, 2013
I had to sleep on this one before writing my review. I needed some time to sort out my feelings.
I loved the actual love story between Hammer and Eirn. The two of them are sweet, and adorable, and perfect for each other. Also, despite the grammar issues (which aren't actually, technically grammar issues but still bugged the hell out of me anyway) the book is well-written with some really amazing lines in places. I didn't even mind the 1st-person POV. I was looking at a 4 to start, even with Hammer murdering someone in cold-blood. (That's a pet peeve of mine. I personally like the heroes of my stories to be good guys, but I let it slide this time because it is a fairy tale.)
The problem comes in at around 50%. Ok, so there's a magical bear. It's a fairy tale. The magical bear can turn into a human. Again, it's a fairy tale. The magical bear turns into a human and then proceeds to rape Eirn (he was taken in the beginning against his will; that's rape, whether he eventually consented or not), and instead of either of them taken issue with this, they both allow it to continue. I thought that was a little weird; even for a fairy tale. Especially considering that Hammer allows this because he is sure that the bear-prince is better for Eirn than he is and Eirn will eventually chose the bear-prince instead, and Eirn keeps telling Hammer that he is the one he loves and is going to choose, yet he sleeps with the bear-prince anyway. Suspension of disbelief only goes so far with me, and that was past the limits.
The story is fine though, after that. In true fairy tale style, the two of them gain a friend of the bear-prince, a place to call home where they are pardoned of their crime, good jobs in which to live off of, and they live happily ever after. The book is worth reading for that alone.
I loved the actual love story between Hammer and Eirn. The two of them are sweet, and adorable, and perfect for each other. Also, despite the grammar issues (which aren't actually, technically grammar issues but still bugged the hell out of me anyway) the book is well-written with some really amazing lines in places. I didn't even mind the 1st-person POV. I was looking at a 4 to start, even with Hammer murdering someone in cold-blood. (That's a pet peeve of mine. I personally like the heroes of my stories to be good guys, but I let it slide this time because it is a fairy tale.)
The problem comes in at around 50%. Ok, so there's a magical bear. It's a fairy tale. The magical bear can turn into a human. Again, it's a fairy tale. The magical bear turns into a human and then proceeds to rape Eirn (he was taken in the beginning against his will; that's rape, whether he eventually consented or not), and instead of either of them taken issue with this, they both allow it to continue. I thought that was a little weird; even for a fairy tale. Especially considering that Hammer allows this because he is sure that the bear-prince is better for Eirn than he is and Eirn will eventually chose the bear-prince instead, and Eirn keeps telling Hammer that he is the one he loves and is going to choose, yet he sleeps with the bear-prince anyway. Suspension of disbelief only goes so far with me, and that was past the limits.
The story is fine though, after that. In true fairy tale style, the two of them gain a friend of the bear-prince, a place to call home where they are pardoned of their crime, good jobs in which to live off of, and they live happily ever after. The book is worth reading for that alone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2014
Buddy read with Alice.
Not my style of book. To be honest I don't mind fantasy, though it's not my favourite. Menage is a no-go for me. This has menage and personally, I thought it was just useless. It could have been an extra two stars if the menage had been gone and replaced with something else.
I want to say that people like me, who despise menage, just won't get it. But others, might find they can take it. I, unfortunately, was not someone who found they liked it here. Maybe others will appreciate the menage. I couldn't even though I kind of adored Hammer after a while. At first, he was a jerk. But I grew to love him. Eirn... I think he was okay, but I wasn't madly in love with him.
The prince/bear... WOWZA... That was something that frustrated me. It was also a part of the reason I was not into Eirn. He was there. Neither man seemed to be attracted to him strongly. Yet, we had menage. It confused me and left me wanting to scream. I wasn't as bothered about it as I could have been though.
Typically, I avoid this kind of book. I knew I wouldn't be a fan of menage. But I can say this for the book, it didn't change the love Eirn and Hammer had. It just made me confused about Eirn and the bear... Maybe that was just me. I have been known to have different views on books.
I give this book two stars for one reason. Hammer. He was the saving grace for me. I did fall so madly in love with his character. I would actually have liked for this book to have some of his POV. The ending was another part. It did seem like it gave the "perfect" ending. Even if I might be the only one who thinks that.
I don't regret reading this book. Even after all that. The reason is I can say I tried menage and I honestly do not like it in my books. No matter how much I might love/like the couple. So that makes me happy.
Not my style of book. To be honest I don't mind fantasy, though it's not my favourite. Menage is a no-go for me. This has menage and personally, I thought it was just useless. It could have been an extra two stars if the menage had been gone and replaced with something else.
I want to say that people like me, who despise menage, just won't get it. But others, might find they can take it. I, unfortunately, was not someone who found they liked it here. Maybe others will appreciate the menage. I couldn't even though I kind of adored Hammer after a while. At first, he was a jerk. But I grew to love him. Eirn... I think he was okay, but I wasn't madly in love with him.
The prince/bear... WOWZA... That was something that frustrated me. It was also a part of the reason I was not into Eirn. He was there. Neither man seemed to be attracted to him strongly. Yet, we had menage. It confused me and left me wanting to scream. I wasn't as bothered about it as I could have been though.
Typically, I avoid this kind of book. I knew I wouldn't be a fan of menage. But I can say this for the book, it didn't change the love Eirn and Hammer had. It just made me confused about Eirn and the bear... Maybe that was just me. I have been known to have different views on books.
I give this book two stars for one reason. Hammer. He was the saving grace for me. I did fall so madly in love with his character. I would actually have liked for this book to have some of his POV. The ending was another part. It did seem like it gave the "perfect" ending. Even if I might be the only one who thinks that.
I don't regret reading this book. Even after all that. The reason is I can say I tried menage and I honestly do not like it in my books. No matter how much I might love/like the couple. So that makes me happy.
January 1, 2011
Hmmm..
What to say.. How to review..
Let me start off by saying that I liked this.. I just dont know why..
This is a really odd story.. I'm not really sure what the 'theme' was, or what the author was tryin to say with it.
This is the story of Eirn and Hammer (told from Eirn's perspective) who are 2 best friends who grows up together loving eachother. When they are finally old enough to understand those kinds of feelings, they have to run away and they come to a magic house where they learn to be themselves together, and they learn what the word 'love' really means and how to use it for eachother..
Ok, so I kinda summed it up, I guess.. There was also a 3rd person, a bear, who was supposed to be trying to steal Eirn away from Hammer.. But that was just weird, because the reader was told from the first word, that Eirn and Hammer meant forever, and we, as readers, never doubted that, so the bear part was kinda strange.
This story, I guess, is just very strange. I dont mean that in a bad way, because I did really like it, I'm just lost for words here.. (And trust me, if you knew me, you would find that strange as well ;)
It was a very sweet story though.. Yes, thats the right word I think! Its very sweet! There's no drama, unless you count the bear as one, but I just thought that was.. yes, you guessed it, strange!
There was no angst or *oh no he didnt* or *shit, whats going to happen now* No, it was just very sweet and... strange.. (Sorry, but thats really the only word on my mind right now)
Anyway.. I did enjoy the story, and thought Eirn and Hammer were very cute together, and I hope they both got their final dream as they hoped for..
August 23, 2012
A beautiful read from start to end, the book is sparse on the detail but pulls you into their world and won't let go. Hammer and Eirn belong to each other, and you can feel that love from the first word to the last. Unlike a lot of romance novels out there, their love is convincing and bittersweet at the same time.
There are some parts that could be done better - for one, I'd much rather read a lot more of their travels than the sex. The beginning in the book sets a brilliant pace, and I was half expecting some grand adventure for the pair. It's disappointing that they end up spending half the book in the cottage - I think a story that centred on their travels, on their life as they travel from town to town in general, would have made a much more interesting one. The entire latter part of their stay feels like an excuse for sex and nothing else.
The beginning and the end of this book are the best part of it though. The ending especially, is sad and haunting for me, even though it's supposed to be a happy ending. It could be better, but all in all, a very excellent read.
There are some parts that could be done better - for one, I'd much rather read a lot more of their travels than the sex. The beginning in the book sets a brilliant pace, and I was half expecting some grand adventure for the pair. It's disappointing that they end up spending half the book in the cottage - I think a story that centred on their travels, on their life as they travel from town to town in general, would have made a much more interesting one. The entire latter part of their stay feels like an excuse for sex and nothing else.
The beginning and the end of this book are the best part of it though. The ending especially, is sad and haunting for me, even though it's supposed to be a happy ending. It could be better, but all in all, a very excellent read.
May 24, 2011
A wonderful fairy tale that combines traditional elements, like shapeshifting bears and magic cottages, with an intensely homoerotic relationship between two runaway boys. The author chose to give the narrator, Eirn, a very archaic style of speaking which could have been annoying, but managed not to be. After the first couple paragraphs, I settled into it and thought nothing more of it. Overall, very beautiful and sweet.
October 30, 2013
What a beautiful fairy tale! I was completely invested in the characters. This story was all about Hammer and Air and their love and devotion towards the other. Those feelings were so pure that nothing else mattered but to keep the other safe and happy. Though there is a menage, it's only physical and there it has a purpose in the story.
As usual, Amy Lane made me feel, and as usual, she made it all better in the end.
As usual, Amy Lane made me feel, and as usual, she made it all better in the end.
December 6, 2010
Beautiful love story with magical elements and the best cottage!! I did not understand the bear until everything was explained at the end. Things happened for a reason. And the end just blew me away with emotion
October 30, 2017
DNF 25%
I didn't have patience for this one at all. The language was strange so it was difficult to read at times, our MC Eirn tells us his and his best friend Graeme story. Their lives was pretty horrible even if he just told it "as is" (I guess because that was just life for them).
Eirn's thoughts are consumed by Graeme or as nicknamed - "Hammer", mostly on the sexual side. Up till where I got (25%) it was about 90% sex thoughts or acts with A LOT of possessiveness from Hammer's side. This one feels more like an Erotica (PNR?) novel. I"m not even sure how old they are because as Eirn tells it, he runs a bit from past to present and he sounds a bit "childish" to me.
I actually don't know if there is a Paranormal element to this story, it feels more like "Historical" novel of two "kids" trying to survive in an unjust reality. The whole vibe of the story felt so sad to me.
Truthfully, as time goes by my patience for Erotica drains. I want a good story, I want a relationship buildup, romance and characters I can relate to. With Erotica though all of these elements CAN be included in the story, they take second place to the sex. Here, though all the elements I mentioned ARE there, the issue of sex, and the possessiveness they take just doesn't appeal to me.
I have one more thing to say. Though I haven't got to this place in the novella, there WILL be a Menage somewhere in the future. Eirn even hints at it at the beginning. I saw many reviews complaining they didn't know about it and when they got there were extremely annoyed that they were "fooled". I don't mind Menage in general but with the fact that sex takes so much space up until this point I feel reluctant myself to keep on reading knowing where this is going (probably a sex-fest..).
I guess if you're into Erotica and Menage you're going to enjoy this one. I'm partial to the two of them most of the time so yeah... not for me.
I feel like the obvious question being asked is why did I even read it. The answer is clear to me - It's written by Amy and I LOVE her books even if some aren't what I usually enjoy. Thing is, I don't like to try out new genres by authors I don't know... I rather try it with someone I trust, and I DO trust Amy. But we can't all love everything and though this wasn't for me, it means nothing besides that is wasn't for me personally. I will continue trying books that might not me my regular "go to" and I'll sure continue reading Amy's fabulous books.
More Reviews HERE
I didn't have patience for this one at all. The language was strange so it was difficult to read at times, our MC Eirn tells us his and his best friend Graeme story. Their lives was pretty horrible even if he just told it "as is" (I guess because that was just life for them).
Eirn's thoughts are consumed by Graeme or as nicknamed - "Hammer", mostly on the sexual side. Up till where I got (25%) it was about 90% sex thoughts or acts with A LOT of possessiveness from Hammer's side. This one feels more like an Erotica (PNR?) novel. I"m not even sure how old they are because as Eirn tells it, he runs a bit from past to present and he sounds a bit "childish" to me.
I actually don't know if there is a Paranormal element to this story, it feels more like "Historical" novel of two "kids" trying to survive in an unjust reality. The whole vibe of the story felt so sad to me.
Truthfully, as time goes by my patience for Erotica drains. I want a good story, I want a relationship buildup, romance and characters I can relate to. With Erotica though all of these elements CAN be included in the story, they take second place to the sex. Here, though all the elements I mentioned ARE there, the issue of sex, and the possessiveness they take just doesn't appeal to me.
I have one more thing to say. Though I haven't got to this place in the novella, there WILL be a Menage somewhere in the future. Eirn even hints at it at the beginning. I saw many reviews complaining they didn't know about it and when they got there were extremely annoyed that they were "fooled". I don't mind Menage in general but with the fact that sex takes so much space up until this point I feel reluctant myself to keep on reading knowing where this is going (probably a sex-fest..).
I guess if you're into Erotica and Menage you're going to enjoy this one. I'm partial to the two of them most of the time so yeah... not for me.
I feel like the obvious question being asked is why did I even read it. The answer is clear to me - It's written by Amy and I LOVE her books even if some aren't what I usually enjoy. Thing is, I don't like to try out new genres by authors I don't know... I rather try it with someone I trust, and I DO trust Amy. But we can't all love everything and though this wasn't for me, it means nothing besides that is wasn't for me personally. I will continue trying books that might not me my regular "go to" and I'll sure continue reading Amy's fabulous books.
More Reviews HERE
June 17, 2011
It is a beautiful story about the love of two young men: Air and Hammer. Air is sure about who he is and what he wants, while Hammer has issue with his self confident that he always thought he's not enough to be with Air. Enter a third person, a prince, to show that Air only loves Hammer. Because Hammer wants to give Air a 'real' choice between him and the prince, he let Air has various kind of sex with the prince. Most of the time with him involved. This happens for months.
Like many books by Amy Lane, the story flows nicely. I don't, however, like menage in my MM book. Especially if the menage scenes are (1) there so that one of the character can have 'real' choice, and (2) not once but often to 'prove' that those are 'real' choice.
It ends with the two of them HEA, so it helped me like the book a bit.
Like many books by Amy Lane, the story flows nicely. I don't, however, like menage in my MM book. Especially if the menage scenes are (1) there so that one of the character can have 'real' choice, and (2) not once but often to 'prove' that those are 'real' choice.
It ends with the two of them HEA, so it helped me like the book a bit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2011
The story focus on the events which, in my opinion, are more suitable for the prologue - I kept reading waiting for start of the main story. To my disappointment at the last few pages I found a handful of explanations and a quick summary of subsequent events. I felt that the time spent in the magical hut was intended for characters grown up, but nothing has changed - their behaviour and feelings have remain the same.
Perhaps on my opinion affected my own high expectations, so if you are looking for great fairy tale Truth in the Dark is better choice, but if you do not mind sweet story with relevant menage you can give a chance Hammer and Air.
Perhaps on my opinion affected my own high expectations, so if you are looking for great fairy tale Truth in the Dark is better choice, but if you do not mind sweet story with relevant menage you can give a chance Hammer and Air.
February 18, 2013
I found that I was a little surprised by the content included in this story and that’s usually a good thing where Amy Lane is concerned. In this case, the surprises didn’t work quite as well for me. Even though the blurb talks about Hammer killing an evil master, I was still surprised by the details surrounding the event and how gruesome it came across. The other surprise was . I am really glad that Hammer & Air found the word they were searching for and a place where they could belong. Interesting story!
March 26, 2011
"There will always be Hammer and Eirn"
I re-read this book as I wanted another Amy Lane fix after Bewitched by Bella's Brother and it was even better the second time round.
This is without a doubt one of my all time favourites and Amy is at her best when she is weaving her magic with a good fairy tale. The writing and language is simply beautiful and you can't help but be transported to the little cottage in the woods and swept off in this tale about true love and friendship.
5+ stars!
I re-read this book as I wanted another Amy Lane fix after Bewitched by Bella's Brother and it was even better the second time round.
This is without a doubt one of my all time favourites and Amy is at her best when she is weaving her magic with a good fairy tale. The writing and language is simply beautiful and you can't help but be transported to the little cottage in the woods and swept off in this tale about true love and friendship.
5+ stars!
November 29, 2010
Dammit. She made me cry again!
Another lovely fairytale. The only reason it's not five stars is because it lagged a bit in the middle. This is not a traditional romance. It has a HEA ending, but not in the traditional sense. A good match for those why like to read something very different, enjoy menage and can deal with some dubious consent. Oh and the ending is seriously bittersweet. Did I scare you away? Not my intent! In fact, like every other Amy Lane story I have read, this is a book well worth reading.
Another lovely fairytale. The only reason it's not five stars is because it lagged a bit in the middle. This is not a traditional romance. It has a HEA ending, but not in the traditional sense. A good match for those why like to read something very different, enjoy menage and can deal with some dubious consent. Oh and the ending is seriously bittersweet. Did I scare you away? Not my intent! In fact, like every other Amy Lane story I have read, this is a book well worth reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2011
This were one of the most brilliant books I've read. I were in tears at the end with the sweet sentiments on the strength of their love, and they barely even spoke it because there were no words. The language were well thought out and you really feel it as a period fantasy piece - a true fairy tale feel. (And don't worry, Amy, it dunna feel like "too much sex" at all - there were always a point to it.)
And if you find the language used in this review annoying, you might want to give a pass to the story, as the whole thing are written that way. That would be a right shame, though.
And if you find the language used in this review annoying, you might want to give a pass to the story, as the whole thing are written that way. That would be a right shame, though.
December 8, 2010
There will always be Hammer and Eirn.
With their pure and stronger than life hearts, devotion and LOVE, there will always be Hammer and Eirn in my heart too.
I loved the word plays, the were, and that Eirn was no fool. He didn't make the bad decisions and stupid mistakes that make the readers scream "NOOO, stop! Don't do that!" in their heads. Thank you again Amy Lane, thank you for retelling one of my favorite tales, and thank you for doing it well.
With their pure and stronger than life hearts, devotion and LOVE, there will always be Hammer and Eirn in my heart too.
I loved the word plays, the were, and that Eirn was no fool. He didn't make the bad decisions and stupid mistakes that make the readers scream "NOOO, stop! Don't do that!" in their heads. Thank you again Amy Lane, thank you for retelling one of my favorite tales, and thank you for doing it well.
June 15, 2011
Oh my. Amy, you did it again. A beautiful grown up fairy tale. Loved the language and the imagery of this story and of course Graeme and Eirn. What a beautiful love story between these two that begins when they are orphans. Just lovely - with violence and beauty and suspense and magic throughout - I'm sure I'll reread.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews