kimberly_rose’s Reviews > Wishes > Status Update

Well, definitely five plus stars for the first half, bit it had wavering moments in the last half and the ending was saccharine. Only a tiny bit. 4.5 stars. Definitely deserves a. High rating for getting "outside the box"!

Unusual structure in this book--lots of short, powerful scenes of all types, introspection, action, summary, dialogue, etc. And often things that ordinarily shouldn't be summarized (such as Auri's difficulties after being returned from his kidnapping), still work okay. But I think there is a lost opportunity for further powerful emotional experiences for us angst whores.

Oh oh, here's the conflict, albeit from an outside force. But it sure shows the contrast between those who have controlled their beast and those who let the beast fully free, those who at least respect humans and those who treat them as commodities. (Although, I do wonder what else could trigger Kanar's loss of control, other than the mating instinct.)

"They gave him space; therefore there was nothing to fight against. It was most vexing." I'll say it's vexing. I keep waiting for some explosion of anger or violence, some uncontrollable fight, or forceful demand. All this support and kindness and gentleness and respect is starting to make the story drag.

Ah, the psychology is sound. Thank god. Such a pleasure to read. Auri is so torn. He's having such cognitive dissonance. It's so fascinating to read the way his brain struggles and changes to survive with some joy.

Ah, loneliness. And wine. Equals "I will reget this in the morning." I wonder how long Kanar would "abide by [Auri's] decision" if that decision [to be celibate] lasted longer than Kanar's sexual patience....

Hmm. Auri is shocked to learn he is not confined to the harem rooms. He then berates himself that it is his own fault because if his "bad" attitude?! Howsabout a little communication from those who know the ropes? C'mon, throw the guy a bone! This low self-esteem contrasted with self-confidence is complex, but believable. He is under duress and unsure, and the loneliness wears at him.

Ah, Auri's external locus of control is developing along nicely, what with that realization and his despair. Will he overcome? So good!

...near page 80, when it finally kicks in that his mate is intensely unhappy, Kanar says, "I am sorry you were taken from your people unwilling. I was not told of your reluctance, only that you were not mated and available." Erm. Wow, You da spin doctor man.

Thought: On page 33, Kanar learns that Auri was betrayed and surprise! sold. His reaction? He is "amused." Kanar acts as if both parties are well and content after his mate (unwillingly) submits, but it is clear that his mate is anything but. He was probably just oblivious, raised to think only of himself. But then...