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Brothers Fae Trilogy #2
Heartsong
A slave and a prostitute, both bound to serve a Fae prince, fall into lust--and love--behind the prince's back. But can their love break Fae laws and set them both free? Trystan Raines loves cock. That's a bonus in his line of work--he's a prostitute, and damned good at his job. But pickings have been slim lately, and he's homeless and flat broke. So when a stranger offers him a million dollars to play escort for a month, he jumps without looking--right into a world most humans don't know exists. The world of the Fae. And his new master-for-a-month is their gorgeous prince, Braelan, who wants to "experience" New York with a human. Uriskel also serves Braelan, as a bodyguard, but his term is a lot longer than Trytan' life, without possibility of parole. He's also Braelan's half-brother--but he can't let the prince know that, or the King will have him killed. Uriskel is less than pleased when Braelan introduces his new human toy, and informs him that he's to play bodyguard to the prince in the human realm. Trystan thinks Uri's an asshole. Uri thinks Trystan's a fool. But when the prince forces them to perform sexual favors with each other for his amusement, they discover mutual lust that deepens to love. Unfortunately, there's no way the prince will let them be together--unless it's over Uri's dead body. Publisher's This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find Male/male sexual practices, violence. Previous Skin Deep , also available in print.
317 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2010
19 people are currently reading
608 people want to read
About the author
S.W. Vaughn
33 books138 followersS.W. Vaughn lives in "scenic" Central New York, with its two glorious seasons -- winter and road construction -- along with her husband and son. An award-winning author, copywriter, and blogger, she's been writing professionally for over 15 years.
Under Sonya Bateman, she is the author of the DeathSpeaker Codex series (urban fantasy) and the Gavyn Donatti series (urban fantasy / Simon & Schuster).
Under Sonya Bateman, she is the author of the DeathSpeaker Codex series (urban fantasy) and the Gavyn Donatti series (urban fantasy / Simon & Schuster).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
October 13, 2010
And the nominees for the world famous "Drama Queen Award" are:
Dawson, from the Dawson Creek TV serie
and
Uriskel, from the book Heartsong
.
.
.
After a long and strenuous day
the juries decided:
Uriskel!!! Main character of the book Heartsong!!!!
[image error]
Main facts took in consideration by the juries
The constant whinnying, and a good example are the follow evidences found in this book:
*I'm ugly. No sorry, I'm more than ugly, I'm a monster.
*Nobody love me.
*I'm a low class fairy (the fantastic being, but he think he is a poor lover too, so well, the double mean of fairy is ok)
*I deserve to be punish.
*Yes hit me more.
*Please hit me more.
*Not enough, hit me again.
Congratulation Uriskel, now go and be happy knowing that you are the winner of the drama queen contest!
OBS: Dawson is still crying,
someone please invent the "Most horrendous cry scene on TV" to make Dawson happy... pleeeeease!
[image error]
Anyway, I like the story and the sex scenes, and just don't give 5 stars for the exaggerated drama of Uriskel. I love tormented hero, but this one is not a tormented, but stupid! OMG I can spoil but I can say that I thought that someone he forgave was a little too easy... like "ok, I forgive you and alllllll the humiliation was necessary, I deserve it".... yep, drama queen... really too easy how everything go to the happy end!
So 4 stars, and I like this serie!
Dawson, from the Dawson Creek TV serie
and
Uriskel, from the book Heartsong
.
.
.
After a long and strenuous day
the juries decided:
Uriskel!!! Main character of the book Heartsong!!!!
[image error]
Main facts took in consideration by the juries
The constant whinnying, and a good example are the follow evidences found in this book:
*I'm ugly. No sorry, I'm more than ugly, I'm a monster.
*Nobody love me.
*I'm a low class fairy (the fantastic being, but he think he is a poor lover too, so well, the double mean of fairy is ok)
*I deserve to be punish.
*Yes hit me more.
*Please hit me more.
*Not enough, hit me again.
Congratulation Uriskel, now go and be happy knowing that you are the winner of the drama queen contest!
OBS: Dawson is still crying,
someone please invent the "Most horrendous cry scene on TV" to make Dawson happy... pleeeeease!
[image error]
Anyway, I like the story and the sex scenes, and just don't give 5 stars for the exaggerated drama of Uriskel. I love tormented hero, but this one is not a tormented, but stupid! OMG I can spoil but I can say that I thought that someone he forgave was a little too easy... like "ok, I forgive you and alllllll the humiliation was necessary, I deserve it".... yep, drama queen... really too easy how everything go to the happy end!
So 4 stars, and I like this serie!
January 24, 2015
S.W. Vaughn, where have you been all my life?
I loved this story and this a great series. This time Uriskel and Trystan from "Skin Deep" are paired together. I did not think it would work but it really did. I believed their love and Uri is so deserving of love. He truly is noble. I have to read book # 3 to find out if justice will finally be served to Arcadia for the torment Uriskel goes through. If you're a fan of m/m romance with a dark paranormal twist, don't hesitate on this book. It will suck you in.
There's a lot of violence and pain, more so than "Skin Deep". Poor Uriskel suffers tremendously and the villian(s) are Seelies, Braelan and Morven. These two are horrible but then the author actually makes one of them less repulsive than in the beginning of the tale. I won't say which one but you will want to read to find out what's what
I loved this story and this a great series. This time Uriskel and Trystan from "Skin Deep" are paired together. I did not think it would work but it really did. I believed their love and Uri is so deserving of love. He truly is noble. I have to read book # 3 to find out if justice will finally be served to Arcadia for the torment Uriskel goes through. If you're a fan of m/m romance with a dark paranormal twist, don't hesitate on this book. It will suck you in.
There's a lot of violence and pain, more so than "Skin Deep". Poor Uriskel suffers tremendously and the villian(s) are Seelies, Braelan and Morven. These two are horrible but then the author actually makes one of them less repulsive than in the beginning of the tale. I won't say which one but you will want to read to find out what's what
October 25, 2011
I felt let down by this book. There was little sense given of why Trystan and Uri fell in love with each other other than hot sex. At the same time, the hot sex didn't get delivered for me. The premise is that Trystan was bought for one month to do anything Braelyn desires, but
July 27, 2022
First of all, I totally DO NOT REMEMBER anything from book #1. Guess the series don't stand out that much for me *lol*. But when I checked, I gave my okay rating, so it must be, well, okay
For this second book, I must copy what Bookwatcher said, OMG URISKEL, WHAT A DRAMA QUEEN!! I, too, don't mind a tormented hero, but this guy is just too much. I want to bitch slap him when he's telling Trystan how "he is a monster, that he deserves a punishment, that nobody care enough for him ..." for the nth time. Seriously, Uri? When Trystan tells you, you're beautiful, and that he loves you, and he doesn't think you're that ugly, just shut up and take what he says, okay?!?
Apart from that, I do like the story. It is pretty fast-paced, and not too confusing. Trystan though, is such a sweet man. I love him. He has a kind heart and he sees Uriskel despites his ugliness.
The torture part is harsh, and I'm ready to hate Braelan, because he's such an ignorant prince for what's going on in his kingdom. But he seems to redeem himself in the end, and I'd love to read his story next.
For this second book, I must copy what Bookwatcher said, OMG URISKEL, WHAT A DRAMA QUEEN!! I, too, don't mind a tormented hero, but this guy is just too much. I want to bitch slap him when he's telling Trystan how "he is a monster, that he deserves a punishment, that nobody care enough for him ..." for the nth time. Seriously, Uri? When Trystan tells you, you're beautiful, and that he loves you, and he doesn't think you're that ugly, just shut up and take what he says, okay?!?
Apart from that, I do like the story. It is pretty fast-paced, and not too confusing. Trystan though, is such a sweet man. I love him. He has a kind heart and he sees Uriskel despites his ugliness.
The torture part is harsh, and I'm ready to hate Braelan, because he's such an ignorant prince for what's going on in his kingdom. But he seems to redeem himself in the end, and I'd love to read his story next.
October 28, 2014
Like the first book, Skin Deep, the author uses abuse (in this case extreme torture) to make a character deeply sympathetic. Though it was tough to read, it certainly worked. Who could not root for Uriskel to find a happy ending.
This was the kind of story that made it hard to find a place to take a break. As a reader I didn't want to put it down. It had so many players and elements including a group of outcast Fae that supported each other and each with their own special powers (the deck of cards was so original and amazing), cruelty, court intrigue with a lust for power, and a human prostitute, Trystan, who will show he has a great power to trust and love.
Fascinating story from beginning to end. Loved it!
This was the kind of story that made it hard to find a place to take a break. As a reader I didn't want to put it down. It had so many players and elements including a group of outcast Fae that supported each other and each with their own special powers (the deck of cards was so original and amazing), cruelty, court intrigue with a lust for power, and a human prostitute, Trystan, who will show he has a great power to trust and love.
Fascinating story from beginning to end. Loved it!
January 6, 2012
You know, I don't generally like books that have a 'prostitute' theme mostly because about 90% of the time there's going to be sex with the prostitute and a trick and I really don't want to see that. With the way this blurb starts, I had a good indication that I was going to get outside the main couple sex. So, I put it off. I waited so long to read this but in the end I adored this book.
In Skin Deep we meet both Trystan and Uriskel. Trystan I didn't much care for but I fell in love with Uri by the end of Skin Deep. The fact that he kept and keeps protecting brothers that treated him horribly is so endearing. In this book, Uri still tries to protect those brothers even while one brother in particular (Braelan) tortures him nonstop. It's heartbreaking to see because Uri is so sarcastic, disrespectful and harsh but his heart is so big and deep down he cares far more than he wants to. With Trystan, the walls Uri has built start to crumble because he can't get Trystan out of his mind. I liked Trystan in this one because even though Uri is scarred and ugly, Trystan still falls for him and cares for him. Trystan wants to protect Uri and save him. It's sweet. Both of these characters are sweet and what they go through is crazy.
The first half of the book is brutal and harsh. It shows Braelan beating and whipping Uri and enjoying it. It shows how cruel Braelan is and how much pain Uri can take. Eventually, things start to soften within Braelan and he sees how harsh he is. He sees that there's love between Trystan and Uri. As the story progresses, things come into light regarding Braelan and Uri as well as why Braelan wanted to spend time among the humans. From there on, I felt like the story held a lot of suspense which was very nice and unexpected. I liked the way it balanced out the beginning but even with that I liked the flow of the story and the conflicts that arose.
The story itself is very fascinating. I was captivated with it and once I started I didn't want to stop. The only thing I had a problem with was I felt like there was a tad too much sex. More specifically between Braelan and Trystan than anything else. I didn't like Braelan until the end when he figured out how harsh he'd been. During the time I hated him, I didn't want to see him having sex with Trystan. LOL
In the end, I loved the book. In some ways it's better than Skin Deep was but in others it isn't. So, right now they are tied. I very much loved these characters, especially Uri and the pain he goes through. The action and conflicts were great and the book was hard to stop reading. This has so far been a great series and looking forward to reading Braelan's story soon.
In Skin Deep we meet both Trystan and Uriskel. Trystan I didn't much care for but I fell in love with Uri by the end of Skin Deep. The fact that he kept and keeps protecting brothers that treated him horribly is so endearing. In this book, Uri still tries to protect those brothers even while one brother in particular (Braelan) tortures him nonstop. It's heartbreaking to see because Uri is so sarcastic, disrespectful and harsh but his heart is so big and deep down he cares far more than he wants to. With Trystan, the walls Uri has built start to crumble because he can't get Trystan out of his mind. I liked Trystan in this one because even though Uri is scarred and ugly, Trystan still falls for him and cares for him. Trystan wants to protect Uri and save him. It's sweet. Both of these characters are sweet and what they go through is crazy.
The first half of the book is brutal and harsh. It shows Braelan beating and whipping Uri and enjoying it. It shows how cruel Braelan is and how much pain Uri can take. Eventually, things start to soften within Braelan and he sees how harsh he is. He sees that there's love between Trystan and Uri. As the story progresses, things come into light regarding Braelan and Uri as well as why Braelan wanted to spend time among the humans. From there on, I felt like the story held a lot of suspense which was very nice and unexpected. I liked the way it balanced out the beginning but even with that I liked the flow of the story and the conflicts that arose.
The story itself is very fascinating. I was captivated with it and once I started I didn't want to stop. The only thing I had a problem with was I felt like there was a tad too much sex. More specifically between Braelan and Trystan than anything else. I didn't like Braelan until the end when he figured out how harsh he'd been. During the time I hated him, I didn't want to see him having sex with Trystan. LOL
In the end, I loved the book. In some ways it's better than Skin Deep was but in others it isn't. So, right now they are tied. I very much loved these characters, especially Uri and the pain he goes through. The action and conflicts were great and the book was hard to stop reading. This has so far been a great series and looking forward to reading Braelan's story soon.
November 21, 2014
This proved to be slightly less than I had expected. It was a good book but not great.
I was drawn in at first, with the unusual set of characters, their backgrounds and way of coming together. I already liked Uriskel from Skin Deep, his gruff demeanor but kind heart and strange but pleasant sense of humor. And he seemed so lonesome that it felt only just to have him star in the second book and give him a chance at being happy for the first time in his life.
Uriskel came into the story pretty much as he had left from the prequel, hardened to life's blows, strong willed and unflinching in the face of peril. I felt really sorry for him in the first half of the book for all the abuse he received from Morven and Braelan. It was quite cruel and gruesome to read about all his punishments, all doled out one after the other. And through it all, he showed strength and resilience, with no small amount of defiance.
Trystan seemed to represent the male vesion of Cinderella (or Pretty Woman, if you know the movie). Experienced prostitute who finally finds real love. But I did like the traits of his personality: wicked and lustful but still with a kind heart to see past the words and actions of others to discover Uriskel for who he is.
But the second half of the book simmered down my interest. Gradually Uriskel, Trystan then Braelan became so emotional and open with their feelings that the action thread of the story seemed to drown in it. And of course, the inevitable speech of one of the characters that they will give up their loved one... or the fire scene, which seemed a bit extra, added only to put more strength in the connection between Trystan and Uriskel. The book felt like it had more than one focus point and none were highlighted as primar, leaving the reader to decide which one.
As I said, a good book but couldn't find the interest to anxiously reach the end. A 3 star rating.
I was drawn in at first, with the unusual set of characters, their backgrounds and way of coming together. I already liked Uriskel from Skin Deep, his gruff demeanor but kind heart and strange but pleasant sense of humor. And he seemed so lonesome that it felt only just to have him star in the second book and give him a chance at being happy for the first time in his life.
Uriskel came into the story pretty much as he had left from the prequel, hardened to life's blows, strong willed and unflinching in the face of peril. I felt really sorry for him in the first half of the book for all the abuse he received from Morven and Braelan. It was quite cruel and gruesome to read about all his punishments, all doled out one after the other. And through it all, he showed strength and resilience, with no small amount of defiance.
Trystan seemed to represent the male vesion of Cinderella (or Pretty Woman, if you know the movie). Experienced prostitute who finally finds real love. But I did like the traits of his personality: wicked and lustful but still with a kind heart to see past the words and actions of others to discover Uriskel for who he is.
But the second half of the book simmered down my interest. Gradually Uriskel, Trystan then Braelan became so emotional and open with their feelings that the action thread of the story seemed to drown in it. And of course, the inevitable speech of one of the characters that they will give up their loved one... or the fire scene, which seemed a bit extra, added only to put more strength in the connection between Trystan and Uriskel. The book felt like it had more than one focus point and none were highlighted as primar, leaving the reader to decide which one.
As I said, a good book but couldn't find the interest to anxiously reach the end. A 3 star rating.
July 14, 2013
Main Characters: Trystan - human & Uriskel - fae.
Key Themes: Slave, Captivity, Interspecies
Trystan is a low-class hooker, pulling tricks in public toilets. In the opening scene of the book, Trystan approaches a super handsome blond for a trick, having only just finished servicing another client, and instead gets offered $1M for a month's work. At that point I thought to myself - this is a going to be a awesome gritty story, about an f-ed up prostitute! - but, when the blond stranger pointed to the toilet wall, ripped it open, and pushed himself and Trystan into fairie land……my heart sank!
I just don't get paranormal stories that take place across both the "real" world, and a fantasy realm. First off, they are just awkward, because one MC always struggles to understand the other world. Then there is the issue that the fantasy world always seems to be overflowing with superfluous characters. Finally, there are all the explanations - to show how things work in the different worlds. Most of the time, these explanations and extra characters add nothing valuable to the story.
Also, how come paranormals (Uri) always come to the real world with their full set of powers (and sometimes even gain powers), and when humans (Trystan) enter the paranormal world, they are useless?
Although, most of this story is based in the "real" world, Trystan was as ridiculous and useless in the fae realm, as he in the "real" world. The fae were no better, but at least they had their superpowers…however, since Uri refused to use his powers, until the end of the story, even that could not redeem this book.
In case it's not yet obvious….I really did not like this story!
Key Themes: Slave, Captivity, Interspecies
Trystan is a low-class hooker, pulling tricks in public toilets. In the opening scene of the book, Trystan approaches a super handsome blond for a trick, having only just finished servicing another client, and instead gets offered $1M for a month's work. At that point I thought to myself - this is a going to be a awesome gritty story, about an f-ed up prostitute! - but, when the blond stranger pointed to the toilet wall, ripped it open, and pushed himself and Trystan into fairie land……my heart sank!
I just don't get paranormal stories that take place across both the "real" world, and a fantasy realm. First off, they are just awkward, because one MC always struggles to understand the other world. Then there is the issue that the fantasy world always seems to be overflowing with superfluous characters. Finally, there are all the explanations - to show how things work in the different worlds. Most of the time, these explanations and extra characters add nothing valuable to the story.
Also, how come paranormals (Uri) always come to the real world with their full set of powers (and sometimes even gain powers), and when humans (Trystan) enter the paranormal world, they are useless?
Although, most of this story is based in the "real" world, Trystan was as ridiculous and useless in the fae realm, as he in the "real" world. The fae were no better, but at least they had their superpowers…however, since Uri refused to use his powers, until the end of the story, even that could not redeem this book.
In case it's not yet obvious….I really did not like this story!
June 4, 2016
Excellent sequel to 'Skin Deep', this story brings together the much abused despised Fae half-breed Uriskel and human rent boy Tristan. A compelling tale full of adventure and intrigue.
"What's gallae mean?"
"Braelan's name for you." He shook his head. "It's an endearment of sorts. Not terrible, but not exactly loving. The closest I can come in your language is 'sweet bitch.'"
"Yeah, that's kinda what I though. And I am his bitch, for now." He drew a quick breath and met Cobalt's eyes. "What about aillidh?"
"That one's easy and definitely you." He smiled. "It means 'beautiful.' He calls you that as well?"
Trystan swallowed. "No," he whispered. "Uriskel does."
"What's gallae mean?"
"Braelan's name for you." He shook his head. "It's an endearment of sorts. Not terrible, but not exactly loving. The closest I can come in your language is 'sweet bitch.'"
"Yeah, that's kinda what I though. And I am his bitch, for now." He drew a quick breath and met Cobalt's eyes. "What about aillidh?"
"That one's easy and definitely you." He smiled. "It means 'beautiful.' He calls you that as well?"
Trystan swallowed. "No," he whispered. "Uriskel does."
January 25, 2013
The book starts with sex and ends with love. Though not a sweet journey at all. A lot of abuse and pain in this book but a really great fantasy read. We met these MCs in the first book so they should be read in order. I will admit to loving this one as much as the first. Rentboys and Fae creatures and sex and love and pain. Damned good.
February 12, 2011
I think in general Vaughn's writing style might stray a little past my violence/abuse comfort scale and the scenes that have it are really difficult for me to get through, but I enjoy the rest so much, it's hard to just give it up.
Trystan is just recovering from being sick and on his first night back to work as a rent boy, he meets a man that offers him a million dollars for a month of work. This work requires him to be the sort of sub to the Seelie Prince, Braelan. After completing his mission and returning a traitor to the Fae realm, Uriskel is imprisoned for moths before being taken, punished some more and the made to be the bodyguard for the Prince. While both serving the whims of the spoiled prince, Trystan and Uriskel develop feelings for each other. But at the end of the month, Uriskel will have to return to the Fae realm, and Trystan will return to normal life, that is if they make it the month because if the prince finds out it could end them both.
I admit the book starts off with a lot of miscommunication, misunderstandings and misinterpretations. It starts to get tedious and just when you want to yell, "Oh my goodness will one of you just speak in a complete and thought out sentence so you actually understand each other!!?!?!?" They do just that and it levels out. Like I said earlier there is are quite a few scenes of violence/physical abuse, but it's all packed in the early part of the book as well. But I really liked the characters and the way they developed throughout, although the I thought Braelan's arc development could have started earlier or happened slower or something, it just felt a little fast. Also there seem to be a few unresolved things and dangling story bits that I would love to see finished up.
We met Trystan in the last book. And we met Uriskel as well. He was a sort of secondary lead in the book. Which would mean that the next book should be about Braelan, which I would definitely read. I just can't seem to find a blog or anything for this author to find my answers. I would like to see what happens to him when he returns home, what answers he finds, and then ultimately I'd love a 4th book that brings all three brothers together to do something, like fight or take over or I don't know, just something with the three of them together after they all have their HEA. And I don't care if Braelan's HEA is male or female, I'd still like to finish the arc.
Trystan is just recovering from being sick and on his first night back to work as a rent boy, he meets a man that offers him a million dollars for a month of work. This work requires him to be the sort of sub to the Seelie Prince, Braelan. After completing his mission and returning a traitor to the Fae realm, Uriskel is imprisoned for moths before being taken, punished some more and the made to be the bodyguard for the Prince. While both serving the whims of the spoiled prince, Trystan and Uriskel develop feelings for each other. But at the end of the month, Uriskel will have to return to the Fae realm, and Trystan will return to normal life, that is if they make it the month because if the prince finds out it could end them both.
I admit the book starts off with a lot of miscommunication, misunderstandings and misinterpretations. It starts to get tedious and just when you want to yell, "Oh my goodness will one of you just speak in a complete and thought out sentence so you actually understand each other!!?!?!?" They do just that and it levels out. Like I said earlier there is are quite a few scenes of violence/physical abuse, but it's all packed in the early part of the book as well. But I really liked the characters and the way they developed throughout, although the I thought Braelan's arc development could have started earlier or happened slower or something, it just felt a little fast. Also there seem to be a few unresolved things and dangling story bits that I would love to see finished up.
We met Trystan in the last book. And we met Uriskel as well. He was a sort of secondary lead in the book. Which would mean that the next book should be about Braelan, which I would definitely read. I just can't seem to find a blog or anything for this author to find my answers. I would like to see what happens to him when he returns home, what answers he finds, and then ultimately I'd love a 4th book that brings all three brothers together to do something, like fight or take over or I don't know, just something with the three of them together after they all have their HEA. And I don't care if Braelan's HEA is male or female, I'd still like to finish the arc.
November 22, 2013
Pain, intrigue, and betrayal
These are a few of my favorite things
Resolute in the face of unbearable pain….All that is sweet and holy, Uriskel is a beautiful, beautiful thing. To say that I am beguiled by this tortured creature is an understatement. He possesses all that covet: honor, prowness, and cunning.
Okay, now that I've nattered on about my obsession--back to the story itself. Me likey. Book Two in the Fae series amps up the intrigue and plays some big cards. The reveal totally changes the landscape and subsequently the players' positions--very nice. Makes me want Book Three, Unforgiven even more.
There is a love story with the overlooked Trystan, much like Uriskel, he is underestimated and considered a throwaway, too. How truth can bleed out and be seen from untainted eyes is a key point. Preconceptions are dangerous. We often use them as a shortcut, but that's what they do--cut things short. Never whole, always missing.
We meet back up with Will and Cobalt from Book One, Skin Deep as Uriskel and Braelan play in the mortal realm. But the troubles born from there to here must go back again, to the source, the fountainhead.
Note: This book contains graphic violence done for amusement purposes.
These are a few of my favorite things
*skips through blood puddles singing*
Resolute in the face of unbearable pain….All that is sweet and holy, Uriskel is a beautiful, beautiful thing. To say that I am beguiled by this tortured creature is an understatement. He possesses all that covet: honor, prowness, and cunning.
The bliss he'd held for a moment was a bitter candle in the long darkness ahead.
Okay, now that I've nattered on about my obsession--back to the story itself. Me likey. Book Two in the Fae series amps up the intrigue and plays some big cards. The reveal totally changes the landscape and subsequently the players' positions--very nice. Makes me want Book Three, Unforgiven even more.
There is a love story with the overlooked Trystan, much like Uriskel, he is underestimated and considered a throwaway, too. How truth can bleed out and be seen from untainted eyes is a key point. Preconceptions are dangerous. We often use them as a shortcut, but that's what they do--cut things short. Never whole, always missing.
We meet back up with Will and Cobalt from Book One, Skin Deep as Uriskel and Braelan play in the mortal realm. But the troubles born from there to here must go back again, to the source, the fountainhead.
Note: This book contains graphic violence done for amusement purposes.
October 3, 2015
4.5 stars rounded up.
In regards to the BDSM and menage tags: I loved this book. I'm not quite sure why anyone would put BDSM on this. The only "BDSM" was done by an asshole slave master who just wanted to torture the other guy. It was like any other slave gets beaten up but they went to a BDSM store to find interesting implements. There was nothing remotely sexual about it. So if you are concerned about BDSM, don't be. There is no consensual BDSM play in the book. Well, there was one time when one guy's wrists were secured with scarves while he was being penetrated and that was consensual. I don't think of that as BDSM, though.
There are menage scenes in that one person is forced to watch the scene I just mentioned and then he is forced to do the tied guy, too, while the other watches. Then one guy offers a few times, but they never take him up on it. Three do sleep in a bed together once when they're scared and freaked out, but again, nothing sexual about it. The romance is between Trystan and Uriskel and there is never anyone invited to their bed nor BDSM between them. Everything else is dubcon.
Anyway, lots of action, lots of emotion, interesting characters who aren't all black and white, lots of peril (omigod don't let him die! type stuff), interesting premise and plot, although the ending kind of seemed obvious to me. I liked Uriskel in the last book. I loved him in this. Trystan was fine in the last book as a minor character, I loved him in this.
I just love this series.
In regards to the BDSM and menage tags: I loved this book. I'm not quite sure why anyone would put BDSM on this. The only "BDSM" was done by an asshole slave master who just wanted to torture the other guy. It was like any other slave gets beaten up but they went to a BDSM store to find interesting implements. There was nothing remotely sexual about it. So if you are concerned about BDSM, don't be. There is no consensual BDSM play in the book. Well, there was one time when one guy's wrists were secured with scarves while he was being penetrated and that was consensual. I don't think of that as BDSM, though.
There are menage scenes in that one person is forced to watch the scene I just mentioned and then he is forced to do the tied guy, too, while the other watches. Then one guy offers a few times, but they never take him up on it. Three do sleep in a bed together once when they're scared and freaked out, but again, nothing sexual about it. The romance is between Trystan and Uriskel and there is never anyone invited to their bed nor BDSM between them. Everything else is dubcon.
Anyway, lots of action, lots of emotion, interesting characters who aren't all black and white, lots of peril (omigod don't let him die! type stuff), interesting premise and plot, although the ending kind of seemed obvious to me. I liked Uriskel in the last book. I loved him in this. Trystan was fine in the last book as a minor character, I loved him in this.
I just love this series.
June 12, 2016
It turns out that the area just outside of my comfort zone is actually a in a fairly decent neighborhood. Of course, anything unfamiliar can be a little scary, so I'm venturing out slowly and with caution. This book assured me that I was on the right track, and that keeping an open mind can reap it's own rewards.
Which reminds me...
Did you ever hear the one about the male escort that walks into a bathroom stall and gets pounded into the wall by an enthusiastic customer, only to be approached by a gorgeous blond who offers him a million dollars to spend a month pleasuring a handsome prince in the exotic Fae realm, which happens to be easily accessible through a secret, magical zipper in the bathroom wall?
No?
Me either. That's why I had to read the book.
Which reminds me...
Did you ever hear the one about the male escort that walks into a bathroom stall and gets pounded into the wall by an enthusiastic customer, only to be approached by a gorgeous blond who offers him a million dollars to spend a month pleasuring a handsome prince in the exotic Fae realm, which happens to be easily accessible through a secret, magical zipper in the bathroom wall?
No?
Me either. That's why I had to read the book.
March 5, 2012
Wow, this author doesn't pull any punches when it comes to writting some hard to read topics. This is the second book in the Fae series and I liked it better than the first. I felt like we got more character development in this one. Granted, I wanted to punch B in the face for most of the book and I thought his turn around from biggest asshole ever to a misunderstood/disillusioned guy was a quick trip. That being said, I'll be reading the third. I'm interested to see how the author handles the dangling plot threads.
May 21, 2014
I did not enjoy this installment as much as I did Skin Deep. Uriskel drove me crazy with his need to carry everything on his back. Trystan is the hero of this story in my opinion with his up beat attitude and his love that finally changed the burden for Uriskel. Prince Braelan's visit to New York opened his eyes to what a misled putz he was but not before he tortured Uriskel. It was nice to visit the gang at The Grotto again and see how the royalty and the banished mingle. Nicely written and an easy read, this book is definitely worth one's time.
June 13, 2010
"A human prostitute tied to a Fae Prince yet falling for the Prince's slave/bodyguard. Deceit, betrayal, surprising connections and an unexpected love are woven together in this well written and entertaining book. At times very violent yet beautifully emotional as well this Fantasy novel is definitely worth reading."
Complete review posted at Rainbow Reviews
Complete review posted at Rainbow Reviews
March 26, 2012
Why was I waiting so long to read this book??? I liked it.. I liked it a lot. I didn't think there was a lot of cry babyish behavior in it, like a few of the other reviews.
I did think it had a lot of misunderstandings in the beginning. I thought I was going to go crazy with them, but they slowly went away.
I did think it had a lot of misunderstandings in the beginning. I thought I was going to go crazy with them, but they slowly went away.
March 20, 2013
The series veered into porn-without-plot quite sharply on this book, but I still can't actually dislike some nice fairie-porn.
Still, even here we occasionally see glimpses of the author's capacity for storytelling. I wish there was more of it.
Still, even here we occasionally see glimpses of the author's capacity for storytelling. I wish there was more of it.
January 12, 2015
Read it for the third time. Yep, still favorite :)
February 25, 2016
I loved Uriskel in the first book so was glad to get his story here.
Full review to follow...
Full review to follow...
March 20, 2017
Be still, my fragile heart!! I do have a thing for Unseelie and this book just. Hit. Every. Spot. For. Me. PERFECTION. I love.
January 20, 2019
4.5 stars
January 8, 2019
Two tortured souls make a right!
I enjoyed this story just as much as the first.
Trystan a human has been hired as an escort ( think "Pretty Woman") to a Fae Prince. Desperate for cash he accepts and is transported to another realm to meet the Prince.
Sounds like a magical fairy tale... However, before an HEA can be found horrific things occur, and Trystan wonders if his Prince is charming or crazy.
As Trystan begins to question things, his biggest is quickly becoming his feelings for the Prince's bodyguard.
Lots of blood, death (murder), imprisonment, extreme public humiliation and rape happen in and around the lives of our MCs.
Through it all a seed of hope remains, blooming into trust, which finally bears the fruit of love.
💖
I enjoyed this story just as much as the first.
Trystan a human has been hired as an escort ( think "Pretty Woman") to a Fae Prince. Desperate for cash he accepts and is transported to another realm to meet the Prince.
Sounds like a magical fairy tale... However, before an HEA can be found horrific things occur, and Trystan wonders if his Prince is charming or crazy.
As Trystan begins to question things, his biggest is quickly becoming his feelings for the Prince's bodyguard.
Lots of blood, death (murder), imprisonment, extreme public humiliation and rape happen in and around the lives of our MCs.
Through it all a seed of hope remains, blooming into trust, which finally bears the fruit of love.
💖
November 8, 2020
Back story is okay ish but i cant read past the abuse so skipped about 25/30% of the book the ending was sweet and I'll keep it there wont read the last book. I know for smut this isn't my thing so ill stay far away from non con punishment/bdsm slave whatevers.
September 25, 2017
3 Stars.
March 14, 2017
Kindle Unlimited
I read the entire series back to back so same review for all. Well written, sexy characters and great HEAs for each book. I loved that each of the brothers were so different and that their lives and relationships with their human partners were unique. And I absolutely loved the ending.
There is a lot of torture in this series but there's also a lot of gentleness.
I read the entire series back to back so same review for all. Well written, sexy characters and great HEAs for each book. I loved that each of the brothers were so different and that their lives and relationships with their human partners were unique. And I absolutely loved the ending.
There is a lot of torture in this series but there's also a lot of gentleness.
March 8, 2017
Excellent sequel
If possible I liked this one even better than the first. Great characters that were so easy to fall in love with, and they made you cheer for the whole book. Trystan was a bit too much the good proustite but I liked that he was unrepentant about the work. Really dug the new intrigue and look forward to the third book.
If possible I liked this one even better than the first. Great characters that were so easy to fall in love with, and they made you cheer for the whole book. Trystan was a bit too much the good proustite but I liked that he was unrepentant about the work. Really dug the new intrigue and look forward to the third book.
March 4, 2017
It was nice...
January 16, 2013
Little harder to read than Skin Deep, but I liked it just as much
Warning: This review might contain what some people consider SPOILERS.
Rating: 7/10
PROS:
- The Fae realm that is only hinted at in the first book actually makes an appearance (albeit brief) here, and it’s fascinating. Nothing too original, but seeing characters I was already familiar with as they navigated the Fae world had my undivided attention.
- I liked the magical angle in the story. The Fae characters use their magic sparingly and are limited in the types that they can perform. Sometimes I had almost forgotten that they were capable of magic by the time they used it again.
- I thought the sex scenes were well done: tender and hot, made sweeter by the fact that Uriskel has such a bristly personality but is so gentle with Trystan.
- Rarely do I think that 180-degree turns in personality are depicted well. In the case of Braelan, the secondary character who (slight SPOILER here) starts out as a villain and turns into an ally, I thought the about-face was very well-written.
CONS:
- The story requires a large suspension of disbelief right from the start. I realize that this is a fantasy, but it is *rooted* in reality. Trystan is a human character, after all, who lives in New York City. I simply couldn’t make myself believe that a streetwise hustler would allow himself to be played and get himself into the mess that Trystan does. He’s gullible and foolish, and those don’t seem like the sort of traits a street worker would have.
- Both of the main characters experience a lot of heartache through the course of the story. Uriskel in particular is subjected to numerous harsh punishments, most of which are described in a fair bit of detail. The angst level is certainly higher in this volume than in Skin Deep.
Overall comments: I had a hard time getting through the story, not because it’s poorly written or I wasn’t attached to the characters, but because they go through a lot of unpleasantness. The moments of happiness are fleeting at best (until the ending), but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the story overall. I did get a little frustrated at times at the lack of communication, though: this is one of those stories in which one man will look over at the other, see him in a potentially compromising position, and jump to the absolute worst conclusion…and then never talk to him about it.
Warning: This review might contain what some people consider SPOILERS.
Rating: 7/10
PROS:
- The Fae realm that is only hinted at in the first book actually makes an appearance (albeit brief) here, and it’s fascinating. Nothing too original, but seeing characters I was already familiar with as they navigated the Fae world had my undivided attention.
- I liked the magical angle in the story. The Fae characters use their magic sparingly and are limited in the types that they can perform. Sometimes I had almost forgotten that they were capable of magic by the time they used it again.
- I thought the sex scenes were well done: tender and hot, made sweeter by the fact that Uriskel has such a bristly personality but is so gentle with Trystan.
- Rarely do I think that 180-degree turns in personality are depicted well. In the case of Braelan, the secondary character who (slight SPOILER here) starts out as a villain and turns into an ally, I thought the about-face was very well-written.
CONS:
- The story requires a large suspension of disbelief right from the start. I realize that this is a fantasy, but it is *rooted* in reality. Trystan is a human character, after all, who lives in New York City. I simply couldn’t make myself believe that a streetwise hustler would allow himself to be played and get himself into the mess that Trystan does. He’s gullible and foolish, and those don’t seem like the sort of traits a street worker would have.
- Both of the main characters experience a lot of heartache through the course of the story. Uriskel in particular is subjected to numerous harsh punishments, most of which are described in a fair bit of detail. The angst level is certainly higher in this volume than in Skin Deep.
Overall comments: I had a hard time getting through the story, not because it’s poorly written or I wasn’t attached to the characters, but because they go through a lot of unpleasantness. The moments of happiness are fleeting at best (until the ending), but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the story overall. I did get a little frustrated at times at the lack of communication, though: this is one of those stories in which one man will look over at the other, see him in a potentially compromising position, and jump to the absolute worst conclusion…and then never talk to him about it.
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