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In the Company of Shadows #3
The Interludes
The Interludes is an anthology of stand alone stories that exist between Book #2 (Afterimage) and Book #4 (Fade) of the In The Company of Shadows series. This anthology contains key plot points and major development of characters and relationships that cannot be missed.
In the Company of Shadows series description:
Years after the bombs of WWIII have changed the physical and political landscape, the Agency ruthlessly works behind the scenes to take down rebel groups that threaten the current government. Their goals justify all means. Hsin Liu Vega (Sin) is their most efficient and deadly assassin ever. However, he tends to go off on unauthorized killing sprees and somehow his assigned partners all end up dead under suspicious circumstances. That is why the Agency has had him locked up in a box on the fourth floor for years. But now they think it is time to put the psychopath back in the field. With a new partner.
Boyd's mother, a high ranking Agency official, volunteers her teenage son for the position. Boyd is not afraid of death. In fact, his life has been such an endless cycle of apathy and despair for the last few years that he'd welcome it.
Can these two broken men form an efficient partnership? Can they learn to trust anyone, let alone each other? Sin doesn't give a fuck about the Agency, or the androgynous boy who holds the remote to the shock collar that is supposed to control him.
On the other hand, Boyd is strangely unafraid of the man everyone calls 'monster' and Sin seems reluctant to let his keeper get himself killed on any missions. Yet.
In the Company of Shadows series description:
Years after the bombs of WWIII have changed the physical and political landscape, the Agency ruthlessly works behind the scenes to take down rebel groups that threaten the current government. Their goals justify all means. Hsin Liu Vega (Sin) is their most efficient and deadly assassin ever. However, he tends to go off on unauthorized killing sprees and somehow his assigned partners all end up dead under suspicious circumstances. That is why the Agency has had him locked up in a box on the fourth floor for years. But now they think it is time to put the psychopath back in the field. With a new partner.
Boyd's mother, a high ranking Agency official, volunteers her teenage son for the position. Boyd is not afraid of death. In fact, his life has been such an endless cycle of apathy and despair for the last few years that he'd welcome it.
Can these two broken men form an efficient partnership? Can they learn to trust anyone, let alone each other? Sin doesn't give a fuck about the Agency, or the androgynous boy who holds the remote to the shock collar that is supposed to control him.
On the other hand, Boyd is strangely unafraid of the man everyone calls 'monster' and Sin seems reluctant to let his keeper get himself killed on any missions. Yet.
913 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2010
42 people are currently reading
1678 people want to read
About the author
Ais
24 books743 followersHey! I write LGBTQIA+, usually with a twist. My solo works are mostly fantasy, sci-fi, supernatural, or similar. Currently working on Wildwood Rising, a long LGBTQIA+ fantasy series; first book written/being edited: Incarnations.
Helpful links? Helpful links!
-My masterlist of original writing: http://aisylum.com/writing-masterlist/
-Some of my favorite solo stories: https://archiveofourown.org/users/mik...
-My patreon- $1 for all but most things are eventually free for those who can't/won't pay: patreon.com/ais
-My site: http://aisylum.com
By the way, you may know me because I co-wrote In the Company of Shadows.
PS: I can be chatty so if you have questions, feel free to ask! Have a lovely day! <3
Helpful links? Helpful links!
-My masterlist of original writing: http://aisylum.com/writing-masterlist/
-Some of my favorite solo stories: https://archiveofourown.org/users/mik...
-My patreon- $1 for all but most things are eventually free for those who can't/won't pay: patreon.com/ais
-My site: http://aisylum.com
By the way, you may know me because I co-wrote In the Company of Shadows.
PS: I can be chatty so if you have questions, feel free to ask! Have a lovely day! <3
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 261 reviews
January 14, 2018
I’ve just finished my re-read and this book, this series is the reason why I rarely give 5*
Original Review.
Absolutely brilliant.
I really struggled with Afterimage simply because I wanted Sin and Boyd together, facing life head on but Boyd had other ideas and drove me crazy to the extent I stopped thinking of him as Boyd and starting to think of him as Selfish Bastard instead.
This book is different from the rest and to certain point it provided relief from the emotional drain of Afterimage but not as much as I'd expected because I was still upset with Boyd.
This is a collection featuring most of the main characters and like the rest of this series it's truly amazing and who would have thought after all he's done I'd end up loving Emilio, not me that's for sure but I did in fact it's hard not to love him and he provides humour sometimes in the most unexpected places.
Despite the fact that I really disliked Boyd in the previous book and I love Sin unconditionally I still wanted them together and therefore
Some of these made difficult reading, who am I kidding most of these made difficult reading. I'm now in the position of absolutely dreading the next book. The reviews are brilliant and I've no doubt by the end I'll agree with them and love it like I have with the others but....
It's a huge but.
Boyd has been given a mission and it's awful and don't know if I can bear to read it. I will of course I'm just being drama queen but it's going to make for a difficult read and I need to point out again that I hate the Agency with a passion and it's completely crazy that they spend all this time and money developing really great Agents to them treat them like they're worthless holding termination over their heads at every turn.
This collection yet again took me through the whole spectrum of emotions and for a while I was happy but then Boyd gets his bloody mission and I'm back to square one.
There's so much here and so many more questions are thrown up, this is probably the best series I've read, it's totally addictive and emotional and it's taken over my life to the extend where when I'm not actually reading about these characters I'm thinking about them you could say I'm obsessed.
I'm dreading the end of this series, how am I ever going to manage without these guys?
Original Review.
Absolutely brilliant.
I really struggled with Afterimage simply because I wanted Sin and Boyd together, facing life head on but Boyd had other ideas and drove me crazy to the extent I stopped thinking of him as Boyd and starting to think of him as Selfish Bastard instead.
This book is different from the rest and to certain point it provided relief from the emotional drain of Afterimage but not as much as I'd expected because I was still upset with Boyd.
This is a collection featuring most of the main characters and like the rest of this series it's truly amazing and who would have thought after all he's done I'd end up loving Emilio, not me that's for sure but I did in fact it's hard not to love him and he provides humour sometimes in the most unexpected places.
Despite the fact that I really disliked Boyd in the previous book and I love Sin unconditionally I still wanted them together and therefore
Some of these made difficult reading, who am I kidding most of these made difficult reading. I'm now in the position of absolutely dreading the next book. The reviews are brilliant and I've no doubt by the end I'll agree with them and love it like I have with the others but....
It's a huge but.
Boyd has been given a mission and it's awful and don't know if I can bear to read it. I will of course I'm just being drama queen but it's going to make for a difficult read and I need to point out again that I hate the Agency with a passion and it's completely crazy that they spend all this time and money developing really great Agents to them treat them like they're worthless holding termination over their heads at every turn.
This collection yet again took me through the whole spectrum of emotions and for a while I was happy but then Boyd gets his bloody mission and I'm back to square one.
There's so much here and so many more questions are thrown up, this is probably the best series I've read, it's totally addictive and emotional and it's taken over my life to the extend where when I'm not actually reading about these characters I'm thinking about them you could say I'm obsessed.
I'm dreading the end of this series, how am I ever going to manage without these guys?
January 6, 2013
Me at the first 10% - "I HATE THIS BOOK SO MUCH"
Me by the end - "I LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH"
And thus, my ICoS journey continues...
I should say that I think Sonny & Ais are masters in laying out a series. Yes, the books can be long/dense/frustrating. But they took 1500 pages of intense reading to reel you in with Evenfall. They continued on with 1000 pages of torment and destruction in Afterimages. And then, after starting you off with a slap to the face just to make sure you’re still with them…they progress the story, with great satisfaction, and at such a perfect pace with Interludes.
I loved this book. What a treat.
Some of it was PAINFUL.
Some of it was INTRIGUING.
Some of it was BLISSFUL.
Some of it was HILARIOUS.
Some of it was INFURIATING.
Some of it was TWISTED.
Some of it was BEAUTIFUL.
And ALL of it was FANTASTIC. And some of the BEST dialogue between characters in various scenes ever! (…oh…and VERMONT …*sigh* *happy face*…just sayin’)
I wish it could end here…but alas, cliffhangers will not allow this…
Ugh…onward to Fade.
After book 3:
Boyd – bearable
Hsin – Love…(no other word will do)
Kassian – hmph…*rolling eyes*
Emilio – pure comedy
Zach – let’s remove that stick up your ass, ok?
Ivan – Bizzaro-Boyd was necessary
Ryan – MINE!...mine, mine, MINE!
March 9, 2018
I know many are removing their ratings and reviews of all the books they have read, written by Santino Hassell, in light of his despicable behavior. I have deleted my ratings from all Santino books I have read, because I too am shocked and appalled!!! I won't do it with the ICOS series though. I am gonna be honest here and say, that this series is one of the best I have ever read, and I am sure Ais played a big part in my enjoyment. As far as I know, Ais had nothing to do with all that has happend. Until I hear otherwise, my ratings and reviews for this series, will stay up. I am sorry for those who might not agree with me on this. I would also like to say that I am so sorry for all of you who have been hurt....my heart goes out to all of you ;) xoxo
Re-read 7/14/17....damn but it seems that these books are even better the second time around. I also feel a bit less angry than I did the first time... Still made me yell and cry and rant though LOL :P
This series is taking over my life !! I'm completely drawn into their world. So much so, that when I sleep I even dream about Sin and Boyd and their band of merry men :D
This book was a much easier read. It was still emotional en I still got frustrated with most characters, multiple times, but it also had a lot of love and laughter in it. There were however also a lot of parts that angered me :( but it was all part of the story.
A story I seriously love, so I excepted all the bad and frustrating parts that came with it.
Boyd especially drove me crazy in this one. I hated a lot of what he did. I was disgusted with him a few times, but in the end I couldn't help but love him and I think I always will.
Sin however really stole my heart ... I'm so seriously in love with the crazy assassin
And the one person who I can at least count on, to make me laugh.....Emilio. He is one crazy asshole, but damn if I don't love the bastard !! Emilio my man....you stole a piece of my heart :P
I can't fully explain what these books are about, I can only recommend that you read them !! I'm also not gonna spoiler anything. This is book 3 in the series and these books can not be read as stand alones. Also they are very very long. I think this one was the shortest at 9 hundred something pages !! It's all worth it though :)
I am a zombie and my family is starving, but it doesn't matter because I have Boyd and Sin ;)
Re-read 7/14/17....damn but it seems that these books are even better the second time around. I also feel a bit less angry than I did the first time... Still made me yell and cry and rant though LOL :P
This series is taking over my life !! I'm completely drawn into their world. So much so, that when I sleep I even dream about Sin and Boyd and their band of merry men :D
This book was a much easier read. It was still emotional en I still got frustrated with most characters, multiple times, but it also had a lot of love and laughter in it. There were however also a lot of parts that angered me :( but it was all part of the story.
A story I seriously love, so I excepted all the bad and frustrating parts that came with it.
Boyd especially drove me crazy in this one. I hated a lot of what he did. I was disgusted with him a few times, but in the end I couldn't help but love him and I think I always will.
Sin however really stole my heart ... I'm so seriously in love with the crazy assassin
And the one person who I can at least count on, to make me laugh.....Emilio. He is one crazy asshole, but damn if I don't love the bastard !! Emilio my man....you stole a piece of my heart :P
I can't fully explain what these books are about, I can only recommend that you read them !! I'm also not gonna spoiler anything. This is book 3 in the series and these books can not be read as stand alones. Also they are very very long. I think this one was the shortest at 9 hundred something pages !! It's all worth it though :)
I am a zombie and my family is starving, but it doesn't matter because I have Boyd and Sin ;)
July 29, 2025
After the jarring roller-coaster ride that the previous book put me through, I was in urgent need of a break. Something lighter that wouldn't try to shred my feelings every step of the way. I almost managed the switch to Netflix... for about a minute, or two... until I decided to sneak juuuuuuuuust a small peek into the third book. And the rest is history.
I was expecting to be hit with yet another bout of depression, but somehow ended up laughing hysterically right from the first few pages. No one can resist Emilio Vega's charms. He can waltz in on Carhart having sex, nonchalantly wait for the guy to finish, then brazenly demand to move in... and I'd just nod, and point out the be-- er couch. Definitely the couch.
Logically, I knew I should've been appalled on the woman's behalf, but all I could manage was some baffled gaping, followed by manic laughter. *swoons*
The Interludes were juuuust the thing to get me out of the post-Afterimage blues: they were funny, bitter-sweet, cute, occasionally heart-wrenchingly painful, but most of all simply... perfect. It was like my favorite feel-good fanfiction, that gives a brief glimpse into the characters' more domestic activities. It even let me indulge in "forbidden" fantasies, but most importantly: it provides irrefutable proof that the authors always know best.
In other words: for all that I may find Boyd and Kass totally sizzling together, nothing compares to the perfection that is Boyd and Hsin as an OTP.
I wish I had stopped to savor this book more, instead of jumping head-first into the sequel.
Score: 5/5 stars
This was hands down my favorite of the four (or was it five?) ICoS books. For all that it took me 4 days to get through, by the end of it I felt like not even a day has passed.
I honestly have no idea what else I was up to during the reading process... I mean, my time sheet is proof that I must've gone to work at some point, so that's a good thing. Hopefully. *cringes*
=================
Review of vol1 of book 1: Evenfall: Volume 1: Director's Cut
Review of vol2 of book 1: Evenfall: Volume 2: Director's Cut
Review of book 2: Afterimage
Review of book 4: Fade
I was expecting to be hit with yet another bout of depression, but somehow ended up laughing hysterically right from the first few pages. No one can resist Emilio Vega's charms. He can waltz in on Carhart having sex, nonchalantly wait for the guy to finish, then brazenly demand to move in... and I'd just nod, and point out the be-- er couch. Definitely the couch.
Logically, I knew I should've been appalled on the woman's behalf, but all I could manage was some baffled gaping, followed by manic laughter. *swoons*
The Interludes were juuuust the thing to get me out of the post-Afterimage blues: they were funny, bitter-sweet, cute, occasionally heart-wrenchingly painful, but most of all simply... perfect. It was like my favorite feel-good fanfiction, that gives a brief glimpse into the characters' more domestic activities. It even let me indulge in "forbidden" fantasies, but most importantly: it provides irrefutable proof that the authors always know best.
In other words: for all that I may find Boyd and Kass totally sizzling together, nothing compares to the perfection that is Boyd and Hsin as an OTP.
I wish I had stopped to savor this book more, instead of jumping head-first into the sequel.
Score: 5/5 stars
This was hands down my favorite of the four (or was it five?) ICoS books. For all that it took me 4 days to get through, by the end of it I felt like not even a day has passed.
I honestly have no idea what else I was up to during the reading process... I mean, my time sheet is proof that I must've gone to work at some point, so that's a good thing. Hopefully. *cringes*
=================
Review of vol1 of book 1: Evenfall: Volume 1: Director's Cut
Review of vol2 of book 1: Evenfall: Volume 2: Director's Cut
Review of book 2: Afterimage
Review of book 4: Fade
August 18, 2023
✰ 4 stars ✰
“There were so many maybes in their lives, so many things they couldn't affect whether or not they wanted to, but what he knew with certainty was that his feelings for Sin wouldn't change.”
The adrenaline rush I had after I crossed the 60% mark of Interludes is the reason why I love reading. That need to keep turning the page, to keep going, to just know what is going to happen next, because the characters have you in their clutches - the pace is absolutely perfect - the story is finally coming together and it is still creeping up on you that it's not going to be a happy ending. Brilliant, just absolutely incredible - I was speechless at how I could not bring myself to stop, once it had grabbed my attention - Boyd and Hsin.... 🤍🤍
Ah, where to begin - from whom to begin?
“He thought about Sin's deep voice, gruff and raspy with pain and weakness, and Boyd imagined waking up tomorrow with Sin no longer in his world.”
~*~*~*~
“It was difficult looking at Sin and not being pulled in.
Sin looked at Boyd sidelong before shrugging simply. "Because he wasn't you.”
Boyd - my beautiful Boyd - you've "always been in others' shadows," but your growth shined in this one - not just as a Level 10 agent, but to understand and contemplate how you truly feel - how you analyzed that what you're feeling is real, and that you can't avoid it - that you can be jealous, but still give Hsin time to realize his own true intentions. 😟😟 That you want to live and be normal, and do understand that the decisions you make have led to where you are, but you want to change - you want more of a life now.
His relationship with his mother will forever be the most cruel and vindictive and traumatizing ones - when he pleaded with her for Hsin's innocence - when he showed how much his safety meant to him - at the sake of his own life - for just some more time to find out the truth - ah, so amazingly captured - the fear was heightened and so very tangible!! That "it's because it's the first time in my life I don't regret anything" feeling that shows how far he is willing to go - to have his place - ah, the character development is so raw and believable!! 💘🥺💘
“Be grateful that he's going to get himself terminated?" Sin tried to demand but his voice was too weak, his breathing growing heavier as the drugs began to overwhelm his weakened body once again.
"I'd rather die.”
Hsin - Sin - you are trying - you are trying so hard to be more than the monster that they have made you - I am so afraid to find out the truth behind what Boyd fears for you. Watching you accept your emotions as a part of you, helping you figure out that what you have is real with Boyd, seeing the teasing and flirty part of you come out with those soft smiles that melt Boyd's heart - 'a faint smile -- one of those rare looks that made warmth flood Boyd's body. It wasn't very often when Boyd could say that Sin looked truly and genuinely happy." 🥰🥰
And having you get some semblance of peace in the rare instances where you simply don't want to claim Boyd as a person you have - that you're starting to actually feel and "do care is one of the reasons why I love you." The whole trajectory of them fighting and working together - for them to finally talk it out and be there for each other - together - the journey was a slow, winding, torturous road - hard-felt and hard-earned, rough and tough with edges that hurt - but when they finally reached out for each other - to be together -as one. 🩶🩶
“Am I that irresistible?" Sin asked dryly, although his smile inched up a bit more. "Is my blank face that attractive?"
Boyd had to chuckle. "Sadly, for me—yes. You could probably be staring at paint drying and I'd think you're the sexiest person in the room. And it didn't help when you laughed earlier."
He glanced at Sin again, his softened expression showing that despite the slightly teasing smile, he was being honest. "I always love to see that."
Sin just shook his head and looked out the window so that Boyd couldn't see his expression anymore. "You're insane."
"Maybe," Boyd said lightly as he turned onto 5th Avenue North. "But somehow, I doubt you mind.”
And together - when they're together - it is searing passion, scorching electricity, fierce craving, but still a gentle yearning - yes, the sex is wild and encompassing and so so deliciously written, but it's also not only about that for them anymore. That they don't want to be just the two of them based on a drive for sex - they're finally at a point where they want something meaningful, something substantial in their relationship - they are perfect together! 😍😍
If they had to go through the bad hoops - the extra relationships - to get to where they are now, I am going to fight tooth and nail for them to have it. ❤️🩹 ❤️🩹 Which moment should I list that stole my heart - Boyd, resting his cheek on the unconscious Hsin's forearm, when he reflects that he regrets giving him up. When Hsin slowly accepts that he wants to change - to be better for Boyd - when Boyd pleads with his mother to give him a chance to prove Hsin's innocence - that scene in Kassian's pool - where my heart stopped beating, because ---
Okay, everyone loves the tip of the chin, where person A says to Person B 'who did this to you'? Everyone loves the 'touch him and you die' possessive instinct that flairs up in the most possessive and heated of moments. But, what makes me go absolutely feral - that makes me squirm with bated breath - my Achilles heel - is always when person A confronts and corners Person B, in the most intimate of settings, and asks, ever so softly, but so pointedly 'why have you been avoiding me?' 🫠🫠🫠
Ah, I was inwardly screaming! For when Sin does corner Boyd in the pool, very firmly but gently demanding answers, they haven't had the talk yet - but the temptation to give into desire 'felt so incredibly good' but, it didn't happen.... 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻 *fans self* It was pretty much a sealed deal for me there - my heart could not take no more. Oh, and when Sin asks him later 'do you ever think about Monterrey?' 😭😭 - they are so close, but the slow-burn is so perfect right now - I need it to be done just right for them to be together... 🥹🥹🥹
“He would never grow tired of the feel of Sin's hard body against his, of Sin's taste filling his mouth as their lips and tongues meshed. Every time it felt like his heartbeat quickened and the world lost importance around him.”
Also, how can I not mention Vermont? The new and tamer and more peaceful and quiet and just full of love Monterrey? Or can we not talk about how they were so in love there - so openly vulnerable and honest - so at peace and content and the feeling of serenity and romantic bliss that this moment could be theirs forever if the Agency would just let them live? 😔 That this happiness is not fleeting - that every day they could wake up in each other's arms and not be denied those moments of domestic bliss, because they deserve it - they've earned it. The hot tub scene - the bike ride - their insanely and intensely hawt role-playing scene. ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
My heart was swimming with tears of joy that after all their hardships, after all those misunderstandings, those misgivings, Hsin and Boyd were finally one - and they were happy - God, they were happy with each other - when Boyd looks at Hsin - when he looks at what he's leaving behind - the moments that they missed out on to share - it was such a foreboding of a foreshadow. And it breaks my heart because I just know the final part is going to put me through the ringer. 🤧🤧
Happiness in their world does not come without a price. 😢😢
“He thought that if he'd had his sketchbook with him he would have drawn Sin. It wasn't that the moment was particularly important, or that Sin was showing an expression Boyd had never seen before.
It was just the feeling he got that made him want to be able to remember it. No matter what happened in the future, if he could take snapshots of the good parts of his life by drawing them then at least he would always have proof of those memories.”
And lest I forget the piece de resistance - the man, the myth, the legend, the maniac, himself - Emilio. Phew, what a character, what an addition, what a A-hole, but still what a wow! 😅 No, I'm serious - he had no filter - no respect, no care in the world for anyone or anything, and it worked for him. 😏😏 Words fail me at how much of a psychotic tool and a crazy tease and just chaos-incarnated he was, but damn, damn, damn, that ending!! With Carhart! That was just - excuse me, my excitement at recalling my emotions during that scene is having my fingers slightly shake over the keyboard - but - the way the authors built it up - that you finally see that NOTHING of what they write is not without purpose.
I was riveted. 🫨 🫨 His dynamic with his son, Sin, was dysfunctional, but there's a very slight hint of care buried underneath there - his gleeful pride in teasing Boyd was wicked, but entertaining, and holy, his obsession and infatuation with his best friend, General Zachary Carhart is wild and detrimental and still so captivating. I am so so so curious at what is in store for those two - it's not going to be pretty, but nothing in this series really is. 🥺🥺
The writing is an amalgamation of so many emotions that were captured in a writing style that may not have been refined, but the feelings that it resonated with it's words - frustration, intrigue, laughter, emotional, shocking, intensity, mystery - it was a roller-coaster. OMG, it was a roller-coaster, because it did start off really slow and I was still finding my bearings that what is it trying to tell me, what point are we going to reach, but when we plummeted down - ah, that explains the whoosh in my heart, when I couldn't stop reading... 🫣 🫣
“So, I'm just going to tell you how it is for me,' Boyd continued frankly.
His gaze was intense and sincere as he didn't look away from Sin's eyes. 'I love you more than I've ever loved anyone. I think about you all the time. It's been hell trying to keep myself away - every time you're close I just want to touch you. I would do anything for you.
And if I could have anything in the world right now, I would be in a relationship with you.”
There still is a lot of actions and comments and conversations that are objectionable and questionable, I won't deny it. But, it is the steady build-up of the scenes that makes for such a wild high-speed rise of entertainment that makes it all the more believable that the writing washed over me. And even if each mission - the simple directives or the high-scale operations - is simply an interlude or a catalyst - I can see where the pieces are starting to fall into place. There is some hidden work at play hiding in the shadows for real this time - that ties all the characters together - that each instant is just a checkpoint on their board. 👏🏻👏🏻
And the characters' unique personalities, their hilarious and delicious banter, their intriguing chemistry with the main characters made the scenes shine. Ivan was an unnecessary, if not slightly necessary character thrown into a mix. I still have my reservations about Kassian, but he grew on me a little in this, especially since it was interesting to get a few chapters from his perspective and to see what other demons he's hiding underneath. All the other various agents intertwined in their lives were so very entertaining - the dynamic and interactions just felt so very tangible and real. And yes, I'm going to repeat myself - we need more Ryan - why is he such an adorable character and still being side-lined?? 😞😞
So, as you can clearly see, if you've read till the end of this rather enthusiastic review - I had a lot to say. 😅😅 Even now, I don't think I covered everything I wished to say. And even if this part is a monster of a read - unedited and unsupervised and unhinged, it still really was the equivalent of 'damn good television'. 👌🏻👌🏻
“There were so many maybes in their lives, so many things they couldn't affect whether or not they wanted to, but what he knew with certainty was that his feelings for Sin wouldn't change.”
The adrenaline rush I had after I crossed the 60% mark of Interludes is the reason why I love reading. That need to keep turning the page, to keep going, to just know what is going to happen next, because the characters have you in their clutches - the pace is absolutely perfect - the story is finally coming together and it is still creeping up on you that it's not going to be a happy ending. Brilliant, just absolutely incredible - I was speechless at how I could not bring myself to stop, once it had grabbed my attention - Boyd and Hsin.... 🤍🤍
Ah, where to begin - from whom to begin?
“He thought about Sin's deep voice, gruff and raspy with pain and weakness, and Boyd imagined waking up tomorrow with Sin no longer in his world.”
~*~*~*~
“It was difficult looking at Sin and not being pulled in.
Sin looked at Boyd sidelong before shrugging simply. "Because he wasn't you.”
Boyd - my beautiful Boyd - you've "always been in others' shadows," but your growth shined in this one - not just as a Level 10 agent, but to understand and contemplate how you truly feel - how you analyzed that what you're feeling is real, and that you can't avoid it - that you can be jealous, but still give Hsin time to realize his own true intentions. 😟😟 That you want to live and be normal, and do understand that the decisions you make have led to where you are, but you want to change - you want more of a life now.
His relationship with his mother will forever be the most cruel and vindictive and traumatizing ones - when he pleaded with her for Hsin's innocence - when he showed how much his safety meant to him - at the sake of his own life - for just some more time to find out the truth - ah, so amazingly captured - the fear was heightened and so very tangible!! That "it's because it's the first time in my life I don't regret anything" feeling that shows how far he is willing to go - to have his place - ah, the character development is so raw and believable!! 💘🥺💘
“Be grateful that he's going to get himself terminated?" Sin tried to demand but his voice was too weak, his breathing growing heavier as the drugs began to overwhelm his weakened body once again.
"I'd rather die.”
Hsin - Sin - you are trying - you are trying so hard to be more than the monster that they have made you - I am so afraid to find out the truth behind what Boyd fears for you. Watching you accept your emotions as a part of you, helping you figure out that what you have is real with Boyd, seeing the teasing and flirty part of you come out with those soft smiles that melt Boyd's heart - 'a faint smile -- one of those rare looks that made warmth flood Boyd's body. It wasn't very often when Boyd could say that Sin looked truly and genuinely happy." 🥰🥰
And having you get some semblance of peace in the rare instances where you simply don't want to claim Boyd as a person you have - that you're starting to actually feel and "do care is one of the reasons why I love you." The whole trajectory of them fighting and working together - for them to finally talk it out and be there for each other - together - the journey was a slow, winding, torturous road - hard-felt and hard-earned, rough and tough with edges that hurt - but when they finally reached out for each other - to be together -as one. 🩶🩶
“Am I that irresistible?" Sin asked dryly, although his smile inched up a bit more. "Is my blank face that attractive?"
Boyd had to chuckle. "Sadly, for me—yes. You could probably be staring at paint drying and I'd think you're the sexiest person in the room. And it didn't help when you laughed earlier."
He glanced at Sin again, his softened expression showing that despite the slightly teasing smile, he was being honest. "I always love to see that."
Sin just shook his head and looked out the window so that Boyd couldn't see his expression anymore. "You're insane."
"Maybe," Boyd said lightly as he turned onto 5th Avenue North. "But somehow, I doubt you mind.”
And together - when they're together - it is searing passion, scorching electricity, fierce craving, but still a gentle yearning - yes, the sex is wild and encompassing and so so deliciously written, but it's also not only about that for them anymore. That they don't want to be just the two of them based on a drive for sex - they're finally at a point where they want something meaningful, something substantial in their relationship - they are perfect together! 😍😍
If they had to go through the bad hoops - the extra relationships - to get to where they are now, I am going to fight tooth and nail for them to have it. ❤️🩹 ❤️🩹 Which moment should I list that stole my heart - Boyd, resting his cheek on the unconscious Hsin's forearm, when he reflects that he regrets giving him up. When Hsin slowly accepts that he wants to change - to be better for Boyd - when Boyd pleads with his mother to give him a chance to prove Hsin's innocence - that scene in Kassian's pool - where my heart stopped beating, because ---
Okay, everyone loves the tip of the chin, where person A says to Person B 'who did this to you'? Everyone loves the 'touch him and you die' possessive instinct that flairs up in the most possessive and heated of moments. But, what makes me go absolutely feral - that makes me squirm with bated breath - my Achilles heel - is always when person A confronts and corners Person B, in the most intimate of settings, and asks, ever so softly, but so pointedly 'why have you been avoiding me?' 🫠🫠🫠
Ah, I was inwardly screaming! For when Sin does corner Boyd in the pool, very firmly but gently demanding answers, they haven't had the talk yet - but the temptation to give into desire 'felt so incredibly good' but, it didn't happen.... 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻 *fans self* It was pretty much a sealed deal for me there - my heart could not take no more. Oh, and when Sin asks him later 'do you ever think about Monterrey?' 😭😭 - they are so close, but the slow-burn is so perfect right now - I need it to be done just right for them to be together... 🥹🥹🥹
“He would never grow tired of the feel of Sin's hard body against his, of Sin's taste filling his mouth as their lips and tongues meshed. Every time it felt like his heartbeat quickened and the world lost importance around him.”
Also, how can I not mention Vermont? The new and tamer and more peaceful and quiet and just full of love Monterrey? Or can we not talk about how they were so in love there - so openly vulnerable and honest - so at peace and content and the feeling of serenity and romantic bliss that this moment could be theirs forever if the Agency would just let them live? 😔 That this happiness is not fleeting - that every day they could wake up in each other's arms and not be denied those moments of domestic bliss, because they deserve it - they've earned it. The hot tub scene - the bike ride - their insanely and intensely hawt role-playing scene. ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
My heart was swimming with tears of joy that after all their hardships, after all those misunderstandings, those misgivings, Hsin and Boyd were finally one - and they were happy - God, they were happy with each other - when Boyd looks at Hsin - when he looks at what he's leaving behind - the moments that they missed out on to share - it was such a foreboding of a foreshadow. And it breaks my heart because I just know the final part is going to put me through the ringer. 🤧🤧
Happiness in their world does not come without a price. 😢😢
“He thought that if he'd had his sketchbook with him he would have drawn Sin. It wasn't that the moment was particularly important, or that Sin was showing an expression Boyd had never seen before.
It was just the feeling he got that made him want to be able to remember it. No matter what happened in the future, if he could take snapshots of the good parts of his life by drawing them then at least he would always have proof of those memories.”
And lest I forget the piece de resistance - the man, the myth, the legend, the maniac, himself - Emilio. Phew, what a character, what an addition, what a A-hole, but still what a wow! 😅 No, I'm serious - he had no filter - no respect, no care in the world for anyone or anything, and it worked for him. 😏😏 Words fail me at how much of a psychotic tool and a crazy tease and just chaos-incarnated he was, but damn, damn, damn, that ending!! With Carhart! That was just - excuse me, my excitement at recalling my emotions during that scene is having my fingers slightly shake over the keyboard - but - the way the authors built it up - that you finally see that NOTHING of what they write is not without purpose.
I was riveted. 🫨 🫨 His dynamic with his son, Sin, was dysfunctional, but there's a very slight hint of care buried underneath there - his gleeful pride in teasing Boyd was wicked, but entertaining, and holy, his obsession and infatuation with his best friend, General Zachary Carhart is wild and detrimental and still so captivating. I am so so so curious at what is in store for those two - it's not going to be pretty, but nothing in this series really is. 🥺🥺
The writing is an amalgamation of so many emotions that were captured in a writing style that may not have been refined, but the feelings that it resonated with it's words - frustration, intrigue, laughter, emotional, shocking, intensity, mystery - it was a roller-coaster. OMG, it was a roller-coaster, because it did start off really slow and I was still finding my bearings that what is it trying to tell me, what point are we going to reach, but when we plummeted down - ah, that explains the whoosh in my heart, when I couldn't stop reading... 🫣 🫣
“So, I'm just going to tell you how it is for me,' Boyd continued frankly.
His gaze was intense and sincere as he didn't look away from Sin's eyes. 'I love you more than I've ever loved anyone. I think about you all the time. It's been hell trying to keep myself away - every time you're close I just want to touch you. I would do anything for you.
And if I could have anything in the world right now, I would be in a relationship with you.”
There still is a lot of actions and comments and conversations that are objectionable and questionable, I won't deny it. But, it is the steady build-up of the scenes that makes for such a wild high-speed rise of entertainment that makes it all the more believable that the writing washed over me. And even if each mission - the simple directives or the high-scale operations - is simply an interlude or a catalyst - I can see where the pieces are starting to fall into place. There is some hidden work at play hiding in the shadows for real this time - that ties all the characters together - that each instant is just a checkpoint on their board. 👏🏻👏🏻
And the characters' unique personalities, their hilarious and delicious banter, their intriguing chemistry with the main characters made the scenes shine. Ivan was an unnecessary, if not slightly necessary character thrown into a mix. I still have my reservations about Kassian, but he grew on me a little in this, especially since it was interesting to get a few chapters from his perspective and to see what other demons he's hiding underneath. All the other various agents intertwined in their lives were so very entertaining - the dynamic and interactions just felt so very tangible and real. And yes, I'm going to repeat myself - we need more Ryan - why is he such an adorable character and still being side-lined?? 😞😞
So, as you can clearly see, if you've read till the end of this rather enthusiastic review - I had a lot to say. 😅😅 Even now, I don't think I covered everything I wished to say. And even if this part is a monster of a read - unedited and unsupervised and unhinged, it still really was the equivalent of 'damn good television'. 👌🏻👌🏻
June 4, 2016
Another BIGGEST 5 STARS for a book that completely consumed me!!! I LOVED every second, every word, every page, every scene! EVERYTHING!!!
SIN - still awesome!!!
Boyd - well he didn't do something BIG like I would have wanted him tot do... after everything in the second book, but he did loved Sin and was not afraid to tell him how much.
Afterimage was absolutely great, but it was also full of angst and made me ache so bad! I couldn't understand Boyd, I could not see the truth in his statements and it broke my heart to see Sin suffer so much...
I kind of loved The Interludes more because the attraction between Sin and Boyd was so intense... the way they had to hide their feelings and work on their problems!
I don't really know how but I love this series more and more!!!
I was sure they will get back together but I knew it will take time. And it took too much time for my taste! I was craving for any scenes in which they were together and I had to wait so much!
I loved "Captain America". Ivan not so much, but it wasn't his fault I just didn't want Sin with anyone else.
Kassian had something ... sweet about himself. I loved his personality, I enjoyed his jokes, the way he made Boyd relax. I think it was a good experience for Boyd. Maybe it opened his eyes more about Sin and the way Sin made him feel everything. And I really loved a very jealous Boyd!!!!!
Also, I enjoyed their trip alone a lot and wanted, just like them, to always be like that...
The end of the book surprised me. I am so sorry for Emilio and Carhart and can't wait to read MORE!!!
SIN - still awesome!!!
Boyd - well he didn't do something BIG like I would have wanted him tot do... after everything in the second book, but he did loved Sin and was not afraid to tell him how much.
Afterimage was absolutely great, but it was also full of angst and made me ache so bad! I couldn't understand Boyd, I could not see the truth in his statements and it broke my heart to see Sin suffer so much...
I kind of loved The Interludes more because the attraction between Sin and Boyd was so intense... the way they had to hide their feelings and work on their problems!
I don't really know how but I love this series more and more!!!
I was sure they will get back together but I knew it will take time. And it took too much time for my taste! I was craving for any scenes in which they were together and I had to wait so much!
I loved "Captain America". Ivan not so much, but it wasn't his fault I just didn't want Sin with anyone else.
Kassian had something ... sweet about himself. I loved his personality, I enjoyed his jokes, the way he made Boyd relax. I think it was a good experience for Boyd. Maybe it opened his eyes more about Sin and the way Sin made him feel everything. And I really loved a very jealous Boyd!!!!!
Also, I enjoyed their trip alone a lot and wanted, just like them, to always be like that...
The end of the book surprised me. I am so sorry for Emilio and Carhart and can't wait to read MORE!!!
Read
March 10, 2018I'm removing my rating, but not my review. I still love this series, even though I most definitely do not condone what SH has done.
-------------------------------------------
Boyd and Sin, so beautiful together.
Boyd
Sin
Sin and Boyd have gone through a difficult time and now it is time to find a new balance. And I cannot express my feelings after reading Boyd’s beautiful confession.
“So, I'm just going to tell you how it is for me,' Boyd continued frankly. His gaze was intense and sincere as he didn't look away from Sin's eyes. 'I love you more than I've ever loved anyone. I think about you all the time. It's been hell trying to keep myself away - every time you're close I just want to touch you. I would do anything for you. And if I could have anything in the world right now, I would be in a relationship with you.”
This book has THE.BEST.SEX.SCENE.EVER! I thought I would never recover from it.
Beautiful book, beautiful writing and a beautiful love that conquers all.
-------------------------------------------
Boyd and Sin, so beautiful together.
Boyd
Sin
Sin and Boyd have gone through a difficult time and now it is time to find a new balance. And I cannot express my feelings after reading Boyd’s beautiful confession.
“So, I'm just going to tell you how it is for me,' Boyd continued frankly. His gaze was intense and sincere as he didn't look away from Sin's eyes. 'I love you more than I've ever loved anyone. I think about you all the time. It's been hell trying to keep myself away - every time you're close I just want to touch you. I would do anything for you. And if I could have anything in the world right now, I would be in a relationship with you.”
This book has THE.BEST.SEX.SCENE.EVER! I thought I would never recover from it.
Beautiful book, beautiful writing and a beautiful love that conquers all.
August 11, 2015
The Interludes was even more AMAZING!
Captivating story and brilliant characters.
I LOVED everything …
Heartbreak...
Jealousy …
Emotions...
Revelation...
Passion …
Bliss of Vermont …
Amazing fireworks …
And enjoyable side characters...…
Cant wait to start Fade
Captivating story and brilliant characters.
I LOVED everything …
Heartbreak...
Jealousy …
Emotions...
Revelation...
Passion …
Bliss of Vermont …
Amazing fireworks …
And enjoyable side characters...…
Cant wait to start Fade
April 16, 2013
***Spoilers Ahead***
Interludes is book three In the Company of Shadows series. A reading addiction and journey that has crawled under my skin, wrapped around my reading heart and soul, and squeezed. Anger and tears. Rage and love. The characters, world, chemistry, and conspiracy have completely sucked me in. I couldn’t stop reading now if I tried! Consumed, addicted, and *twitching* right now because I’m not reading.
I might as well get my confession out now—I struggled with the change of style with this book. The switch from a flowing narrative to short stories threw me off at first. I went from getting every detail in words and thoughts to flashes and jumps in time and action. The holes left me longing for more. Once I adjusted to the format though, I embraced the style full force. The way the stories changed in tone, voices, and views began to lure me deeper and deeper into the cast of characters and twists & turns. Giving just enough information to make me *need* and thirst for more! Read, flip, click, click, click! The pain, loss, and longing felt reinforced and deeper with each story. Emotions swirled, pulsed, and punched at me. Hands in fists. Nails digging into my palm. Tears. Pain. Relief. Pride. Love. Hell…every emotion imaginable flew out of me at one point or another!
“Despite everything I’ve done and what everyone has said about me, I’ve realized lately that somehow I’ve stayed more human inside than a lot of other people on the compound and I won’t compromise that for anyone when it comes to fighting for something I believe is right.”
Time to step back, examine, and find ourselves in this world is rare. Find our strengths as individuals. Find a sense of stability. Feel secure in our own skins. Hsin and Boyd needed space and gave each other that time. And I love them even more for it. This leg of the journey was such a powerful blend of frustration and joy. Separate paths developed allowing readers to see Boyd gain confidence in himself and his skills while Hsin began to reach out and open up to people. Both men began to feel so much stronger to me. My heart pretty much popped with glowing pride and joy when Sin began to make friends. But the magnetic pull between Sin and Boyd still pulsed under the actions and words. As they struggled to find a new comfortable ground as partners and friends again, a new energy pushed the story along with hope and strength. Painful and awkward at times, but necessary. I loved their time apart. They needed it. Their individual battles pulled a dazzling mix of love and fear out of me. So happy for new friends and skills, but so scared they wouldn’t find their way back to each other.
My favorite part of this book was the Hong Kong mission. It had it all! A city to explore, new characters, action, history, humor, and moments to get lost in. Moments of comfortable silence and talk without interruption. Moments that hit me hard! Sin and Boyd together again away from the Agency compound had me settling in to read with a big ‘ole grin on my face. Partners sharing opinions and space again. Leaning on each other for support and comfort. Wanting to be there for each other. I adored it! The fountain scene—just the two of them talking—captured everything I love about this series. The banter, looks, warmth and words between these two men never fails to take my breath away. I could feel them sitting there surrounded by the music, noise and energy of the city. It reminded me of Monterrey. It just felt right. Throw in suspense, a guess-that-traitor game, humor, and a cold-hearted bitch…well…I’m a happy woman!
For me, Hong Kong also hit on one of my true loves--history. Hong Kong was described as a city stripped of its history due to the war and reconstruction. A city struggling to hold on to its past. History can live and breathe in people’s memories—good or bad they keep history alive. It lives in our heads and hearts. I could feel the city and people of Hong Kong in Sin’s connection to the city and memories as a child. Hsin walking the streets, speaking the language, and looking into the eyes of the young soldiers brought the place and past alive on the page with force and sadness. Hong Kong also felt like the right place for Hsin to tell Boyd certain things. Very powerful part of the story that not only shed light on Sin’s past, but the effects of violence of war on a land and its people--”the idea of not having a choice in the direction your life has turned, of being born into violence and pain.”
There are so many reasons why I love this series, but a big one for me is the energy and excitement of new characters. Both authors excel at introducing new voices with humor and mystery. They stand out, live and breathe on the page. Like Xiaolian! She was one unforgettable kick ass bitch! I would give anything to see Sin and Xiaolian battle! Each new mission or adventure brings in new blood and energy adding another layer of fun to the story. Ton (aka Jimmy) was another favorite from Hong Kong. They all leave a mark though. From the cold hearted bitches to the bike rental guy in Vermont—each new character comes to life with quirks and attitude. I love them all!
Now I know what you are thinking—Hong Kong, Laura? What about Vermont? Yes, I loved Vermont too! :D How could I not? Shopping. Fucking. Cooking. Relaxing. *sigh* But it was the time in the Jacuzzi that made the whole trip magic for me. That talk in the warm, bubbling water was what I needed to hear. To see Sin stand up for himself, hear Boyd explain and utter certain words made my heart happy, flip and heal. They asked questions, talked and tried so hard to really understand the other side. When Sin and Boyd fuck up---they do it up big with pain and more pain. BUT when they stop, sit down, face each other and finally talk—it is like nothing I’ve experienced before. Powerful, raw, and almost brutal in its intensity. I had such a physical reaction to the words--scrubbing my face, shaking my head, gut twisting, and heart racing. I felt just as naked as they did at that moment. In life and fiction, the big talks and supposed healing moments usually sound the same to me. The same words and actions--“Oh, sorry Babe. I messed up.” But here! Boyd and Sin’s words felt so intense, hard, and true. Even if they walked away still hurt or frustrated, you felt how much they wanted to understand—experienced how much they wanted to forgive and move on. Vermont was one of the most rewarding experiences in my reading life.
I feel like this story only gets tighter, more in depth, and heartfelt. The whole cast of characters in and around Hsin and Boyd feel more and more like a family to me. Family and friends trying so hard to survive and gain some control in a dark world filled with danger, betrayal, and treachery.
Can’t wait to see what Sonny and Ais have up their sleeves next! Scared, but excited! Both authors are masters of surprise and shock. They have this quiet, off handed way of just blowing my mind! Several times I have had to stop, go back, and ask—did I just read that?
Bring it on! Off for more in Fade.
My Bitch Fantasy
My Laugh Out Loud Moment
My Disappointments
Favorite Owen Line
“Dude, I’ll know whether those sleigh-bells I heard on Christmas morn really came from Santa before I know who’s calling the shots here.”
Favorite Boyd Line
March 7, 2013
Another truly incredible book... *Bows to Sonny and Ais* :)
I wouldn't read this review, if you haven't atleast read the first two books. I have tried to keep any big spoilers hidden. But I might have missed something. So read ahead at your own risk. LOL
**************************************************************
I will admit that this book was really hard on me, emotionally, which I honestly hadn't expected. I really thought that we would see Sin and Boyd be reunited much earlier than they were. I was so desperate for them to be back together, that I held my breath through every scene between them, every word and every little look or touch.
Seeing Boyd and Sin apart was so difficult to take, even though I knew when they split up that it was for the best. They needed to learn how to be strong alone before they can be any good together, but that doesn’t make it any easier, unfortunately.
"All I know is that I don’t want to not see you, even if all it amounts to is awkwardness. And I know I still want to touch you, even though you don’t want me to anymore."
One of the things I really adored about this book; was watching Sin grow, seeing him make friends and become more comfortable with himself as a person. But most of all, it was seeing him discover his own feelings. Deciding what he actually felt, now that he wasn’t dependant on Boyd for stability…
"It doesn’t change that I still want him, I still want to be with him, I still feel like the fucking air has been sucked out of the room when he walks in and I still think about him all the time."
His brutal honesty definitely comes from his father. I literally spat out my tea whilst reading this part, he’s so damn funny…
'"I do not understand why men do such things."
Growing irritated by the pointless discussion, Sin sneered. "Maybe you should try it sometime and then decide. You might enjoy having your cock stuffed in a tight ass."
Bo-Qin’s thoughtful expression slid into a dark glare and he turned away, leaving the room as abruptly as he entered.'
Bwahahaha.
Onto some of the secondary characters.
Ivan:
I was so confused by Ivan’s presence. One minute I was so happy that Sin had someone to talk to again. The next, I felt like he was stopping Sin and Boyd from making the progress that was needed between them.
He seemed like such a nice guy though, he was there for Sin when he needed a friend and to show him that not only Boyd thinks he’s an amazing person. I think Sin really needed that…
"It’s just that you’re truly, honestly, breathtakingly gorgeous, Hsin. It’s difficult for me to ignore as it is but when you smile like that it’s impossible. Your entire face lights up. It’s very striking."
As I mentioned in my review of Afterimage, I was already falling in love with (I’m hiding his name just in case, don’t want to spoil anything for others) before we even really knew him, his brutal honesty sucked me in from the get go. Yes, he’s rude and disgusting, a real asshole too. But my God do I love him. He’s so much fun. I think that out of everyone, it’s his relationship with Boyd that intrigued me, and made me laugh the most. It was so easy to forget that he is because 90% of the time, he didn’t act like it. He was so pervy about Boyd and Sin together, and constantly propositioning Boyd, it was hilarious. If not a little creepy! LOL.
'……'s mouth twitched up slightly but then he just shrugged exaggeratedly and said slowly, "Or maybe… you just think I’m cute. Admit it, Boyd. Don’t deny your true feelings anymore. It’s mean to be – you, me, my boy… How would you like to be in the middle of a Vega sandwich?"'
Bwahahaha.
Boyd and work so well together. There’s something about their personalities that just click. opens up to him about things I never would have expected him to say out loud and I like that he has someone to talk to, I don’t think he has anyone else. I like that Boyd recognises that.
'"Sometimes,"…… said in a low dangerous voice. "Sometimes I get so fucking angry I just imagine myself killing him. That’s how crazy he drives me. Sometimes I just want him to fuckin die so I won’t be like this no more."
"If that ever happened you’d regret it far more than anything in the end." Boyd replied calmly.
"Yeah," ...... agreed quietly, nodding seriously in response. "I’d probably blow my own brains out after. Maybe that wouldn’t be so bad though…"'
The poor guy is in such a mess. He has no idea how to be normal, how to go about his feelings. It’s hard to see. I really hope things get better for him in the next book.
Now onto Wow, where to start. Their relationship is so frickin complicated.
You can tell from the very start that something has happened between them in the past. They were very close before their twenty year separation and it was obvious that their differences are hurting , he wants the old Zach back.
I liked how they behaved towards each other, that was never bothered by Zachary’s new status as a General. He was still as honest as ever, and treated Zach the same as he always did.
I still love Kassian, just as much as before. But we definitely got to see a different side to him in this book. We learned so much more about his past, what he has had to suffer through, at the hands of the Agency, and the damage it has done to his life. I was so horrified by some of what we saw, it’s really not surprising he is drinking so badly.
Vivienne is on par, being a total bitch as usual. Nothing new there! LOL. If I get started on this lady, I will never stop. So I am moving on :)
I found this book a lot harder to read, than Afterimage. I found Sin and Boyd being so sweet and nice to each other, without being a couple, unbearable. I would have preferred shouting and screaming to this. Having to watch each other with different people was awful, and fearing that they might never be together again? *shudders* I never want to see them like that again.
All the angst and separation was so worth it in the end. Boyd and Sin’s reunion was more than I could’ve hoped for. I was crying very happy tears :)
'His gaze was intense and sincere as he didn’t look away from Sin’s eyes. "I love you more than I’ve ever loved anyone. I think about you all the time. It’s been hell trying to keep myself away – every time you’re close I just want to touch you. I would do anything for you.
And if I could have anything in the world right now, I would be in a relationship with you."'
One of my favourite scenes was at Kassian’s pool party, I loved the group banter.
'"Some field agents actually spend their free time reading, and not being lazy fat assess playing video games and chugging beer."
There was a brief silence and Ryan looked on the verge of pissing himself with laughter although he managed to keep it in.
"I’m not a fat ass," Kassian said icily.
"Not yet…"
"You eat fucking donuts for dinner on missions!" Kassian practically shouted incredulously.'
Bwahahaha.
But the best scenes EVER, were in Vermont. Vermont is definitely the new Mexico. You all know what I’m talking about *wink wink*.
I have to end this review by saying that I am terrified. I know it seems a little crazy because I loved this book so much, but the last three or four per cent really made me nervous. I just have to hope that something comes up, before Boyd can go on this mission? Surely it can’t go ahead, it just can’t! Everything was going so well, I am scared of what this will do to them all over again.
Also, the person responsible for the Raid on the Agency was revealed. I could not believe it, and the way it all slotted in together was so perfect. Amazing writing!
Although I am shitting myself, worrying about Fade, I cannot wait to start. Yes, I am a total glutton for punishment. LOL
I wouldn't read this review, if you haven't atleast read the first two books. I have tried to keep any big spoilers hidden. But I might have missed something. So read ahead at your own risk. LOL
**************************************************************
I will admit that this book was really hard on me, emotionally, which I honestly hadn't expected. I really thought that we would see Sin and Boyd be reunited much earlier than they were. I was so desperate for them to be back together, that I held my breath through every scene between them, every word and every little look or touch.
Seeing Boyd and Sin apart was so difficult to take, even though I knew when they split up that it was for the best. They needed to learn how to be strong alone before they can be any good together, but that doesn’t make it any easier, unfortunately.
"All I know is that I don’t want to not see you, even if all it amounts to is awkwardness. And I know I still want to touch you, even though you don’t want me to anymore."
One of the things I really adored about this book; was watching Sin grow, seeing him make friends and become more comfortable with himself as a person. But most of all, it was seeing him discover his own feelings. Deciding what he actually felt, now that he wasn’t dependant on Boyd for stability…
"It doesn’t change that I still want him, I still want to be with him, I still feel like the fucking air has been sucked out of the room when he walks in and I still think about him all the time."
His brutal honesty definitely comes from his father. I literally spat out my tea whilst reading this part, he’s so damn funny…
'"I do not understand why men do such things."
Growing irritated by the pointless discussion, Sin sneered. "Maybe you should try it sometime and then decide. You might enjoy having your cock stuffed in a tight ass."
Bo-Qin’s thoughtful expression slid into a dark glare and he turned away, leaving the room as abruptly as he entered.'
Bwahahaha.
Onto some of the secondary characters.
Ivan:
I was so confused by Ivan’s presence. One minute I was so happy that Sin had someone to talk to again. The next, I felt like he was stopping Sin and Boyd from making the progress that was needed between them.
He seemed like such a nice guy though, he was there for Sin when he needed a friend and to show him that not only Boyd thinks he’s an amazing person. I think Sin really needed that…
"It’s just that you’re truly, honestly, breathtakingly gorgeous, Hsin. It’s difficult for me to ignore as it is but when you smile like that it’s impossible. Your entire face lights up. It’s very striking."
As I mentioned in my review of Afterimage, I was already falling in love with (I’m hiding his name just in case, don’t want to spoil anything for others) before we even really knew him, his brutal honesty sucked me in from the get go. Yes, he’s rude and disgusting, a real asshole too. But my God do I love him. He’s so much fun. I think that out of everyone, it’s his relationship with Boyd that intrigued me, and made me laugh the most. It was so easy to forget that he is because 90% of the time, he didn’t act like it. He was so pervy about Boyd and Sin together, and constantly propositioning Boyd, it was hilarious. If not a little creepy! LOL.
'……'s mouth twitched up slightly but then he just shrugged exaggeratedly and said slowly, "Or maybe… you just think I’m cute. Admit it, Boyd. Don’t deny your true feelings anymore. It’s mean to be – you, me, my boy… How would you like to be in the middle of a Vega sandwich?"'
Bwahahaha.
Boyd and work so well together. There’s something about their personalities that just click. opens up to him about things I never would have expected him to say out loud and I like that he has someone to talk to, I don’t think he has anyone else. I like that Boyd recognises that.
'"Sometimes,"…… said in a low dangerous voice. "Sometimes I get so fucking angry I just imagine myself killing him. That’s how crazy he drives me. Sometimes I just want him to fuckin die so I won’t be like this no more."
"If that ever happened you’d regret it far more than anything in the end." Boyd replied calmly.
"Yeah," ...... agreed quietly, nodding seriously in response. "I’d probably blow my own brains out after. Maybe that wouldn’t be so bad though…"'
The poor guy is in such a mess. He has no idea how to be normal, how to go about his feelings. It’s hard to see. I really hope things get better for him in the next book.
Now onto Wow, where to start. Their relationship is so frickin complicated.
You can tell from the very start that something has happened between them in the past. They were very close before their twenty year separation and it was obvious that their differences are hurting , he wants the old Zach back.
I liked how they behaved towards each other, that was never bothered by Zachary’s new status as a General. He was still as honest as ever, and treated Zach the same as he always did.
I still love Kassian, just as much as before. But we definitely got to see a different side to him in this book. We learned so much more about his past, what he has had to suffer through, at the hands of the Agency, and the damage it has done to his life. I was so horrified by some of what we saw, it’s really not surprising he is drinking so badly.
Vivienne is on par, being a total bitch as usual. Nothing new there! LOL. If I get started on this lady, I will never stop. So I am moving on :)
I found this book a lot harder to read, than Afterimage. I found Sin and Boyd being so sweet and nice to each other, without being a couple, unbearable. I would have preferred shouting and screaming to this. Having to watch each other with different people was awful, and fearing that they might never be together again? *shudders* I never want to see them like that again.
All the angst and separation was so worth it in the end. Boyd and Sin’s reunion was more than I could’ve hoped for. I was crying very happy tears :)
'His gaze was intense and sincere as he didn’t look away from Sin’s eyes. "I love you more than I’ve ever loved anyone. I think about you all the time. It’s been hell trying to keep myself away – every time you’re close I just want to touch you. I would do anything for you.
And if I could have anything in the world right now, I would be in a relationship with you."'
One of my favourite scenes was at Kassian’s pool party, I loved the group banter.
'"Some field agents actually spend their free time reading, and not being lazy fat assess playing video games and chugging beer."
There was a brief silence and Ryan looked on the verge of pissing himself with laughter although he managed to keep it in.
"I’m not a fat ass," Kassian said icily.
"Not yet…"
"You eat fucking donuts for dinner on missions!" Kassian practically shouted incredulously.'
Bwahahaha.
But the best scenes EVER, were in Vermont. Vermont is definitely the new Mexico. You all know what I’m talking about *wink wink*.
I have to end this review by saying that I am terrified. I know it seems a little crazy because I loved this book so much, but the last three or four per cent really made me nervous. I just have to hope that something comes up, before Boyd can go on this mission? Surely it can’t go ahead, it just can’t! Everything was going so well, I am scared of what this will do to them all over again.
Also, the person responsible for the Raid on the Agency was revealed. I could not believe it, and the way it all slotted in together was so perfect. Amazing writing!
Although I am shitting myself, worrying about Fade, I cannot wait to start. Yes, I am a total glutton for punishment. LOL
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March 13, 2018Rating removed because of this:
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I still admire Ais tho
Original review:
This book is the ultimate material for fangirling. We are talking serious here. The characters, quotes and situations are destined to fangirl, sigh, smile, laugh, cry and give the reader goosebumps. Or at least, that was what I experienced while reading The Interludes.
Because, let me tell you just a little thing: this book is fantastic, addictive and, as it's predecessors, masterfully written.
Santino & Ais keep amazing me and I'm a super happy reader right now. I'm a fan. A huge one with heart eyes and a smile in my face, even if the path hasn't been a sweet and peaceful one. On the contrary, it has been long, hard and sometimes, cruel.
Detailed and developed to the maximum in a flawless way (even if some parts were too long for my tastes), book three in the ICoS series is easier to read than Afterimage and it's also more exciting and powerful. Less sad (Hsin related) and less painful.
"I just don´t know what the fuck to do. I don´t know how to move on and I dont know if I even want to" (Hsin)
It has a lot of mixed genres. The love story is still our base (sad and complicated but for the first time: hopeful). The sci-fi our frame (world building to die for) and the thriller and the mystery, a big part of it (pure entertainment perfectly executed).
Also this one is much dirtier than the others, and much more dynamic probably because of the different POVs used.
And that's the thing, the multiple POVs was a total hit. Superb. This book is full of amazing characters creating subplots by themselves. Stories that you want to follow and not only because you know they are converging in your ending. No. You want to read them because they are perfect, entertaining, developed and very interesting.
But I don't want to slaughter the plot revealing any details. So I'm just going to spit my thoughts as usual and even that its gonna be difficult this time because I have a lot of feelings right now. A lot of messed up thoughts that I can't (and I won't) write up. If I'd try it would be boringly long and complicated to follow since I've been taking notes, and filling pages about everything that happened (and how it affected me). Now it's difficult to summarize without being extremely detailed, so I won't try and I'm just gonna say a few things (maybe still a lot, but that's life)
First and most important thought: I love Hsin Liu Vega and I reaffirm myself declaring him as one of the most attractive characters ever written. Here he blooms and it is beautiful to watch.
"I still want to be with him, I still feel like the fucking air has been sucked out of the room when he walks in and I still think about him all the time" (Says Hsin)
Second main feeling: Boyd's evolution is huge. His character development is impressive and so is the way the authors show us why and how he changes. Boyd grows before the reader's eyes. I love you, blondie, you've given me wonderful moments, hair-raising quotes and some well deserved tears.
"I love you more than I ever love anyone. I think about you all the time. It´s been hell trying to keep myself away- everytime you are close I just want to touch you-. I would do anything for you. And if I could have anything in the world right now, I would be in a relationship with you" (Boyd to Hsin)
Third thing to highlight: Even if I think some of the missions were a bit too much (too long, too detailed...) all of them served their purpose: to get to know the character more deeply and, of course, to get some good action.
And my fourth thought goes to: The side characters. They are the bomb. Every single one of them. The ones you knew, and the new additions. The ones you love, the ones you just like or dislike, and the ones you hate. All of them are complex and perfectly structured. You understand their motivations. Awesome work here. And, of course, I have my special mention in this regard
This one has it all: love, mystery, delicious bickering, deep conversations, fantastic sex scenes (role playing included. Yay!) and a lot of action. And I insist about the world building, because it is wonderful and a delight to sci-fi fans.
A highly recommend series, even if the Director´s cut is gonna be better.
Note to readers: This is book 3 in a series. Can't be read as standalone.
Also, I kept my review spoiler free but the comments below contain spoilers, so be careful reading them, please! It's for your own good! You don't want to know, believe me. Not yet.
http://riptidepublishing.com/a-statem...
I still admire Ais tho
Original review:
This book is the ultimate material for fangirling. We are talking serious here. The characters, quotes and situations are destined to fangirl, sigh, smile, laugh, cry and give the reader goosebumps. Or at least, that was what I experienced while reading The Interludes.
Because, let me tell you just a little thing: this book is fantastic, addictive and, as it's predecessors, masterfully written.
Santino & Ais keep amazing me and I'm a super happy reader right now. I'm a fan. A huge one with heart eyes and a smile in my face, even if the path hasn't been a sweet and peaceful one. On the contrary, it has been long, hard and sometimes, cruel.
Detailed and developed to the maximum in a flawless way (even if some parts were too long for my tastes), book three in the ICoS series is easier to read than Afterimage and it's also more exciting and powerful. Less sad (Hsin related) and less painful.
"I just don´t know what the fuck to do. I don´t know how to move on and I dont know if I even want to" (Hsin)
It has a lot of mixed genres. The love story is still our base (sad and complicated but for the first time: hopeful). The sci-fi our frame (world building to die for) and the thriller and the mystery, a big part of it (pure entertainment perfectly executed).
Also this one is much dirtier than the others, and much more dynamic probably because of the different POVs used.
And that's the thing, the multiple POVs was a total hit. Superb. This book is full of amazing characters creating subplots by themselves. Stories that you want to follow and not only because you know they are converging in your ending. No. You want to read them because they are perfect, entertaining, developed and very interesting.
But I don't want to slaughter the plot revealing any details. So I'm just going to spit my thoughts as usual and even that its gonna be difficult this time because I have a lot of feelings right now. A lot of messed up thoughts that I can't (and I won't) write up. If I'd try it would be boringly long and complicated to follow since I've been taking notes, and filling pages about everything that happened (and how it affected me). Now it's difficult to summarize without being extremely detailed, so I won't try and I'm just gonna say a few things (maybe still a lot, but that's life)
First and most important thought: I love Hsin Liu Vega and I reaffirm myself declaring him as one of the most attractive characters ever written. Here he blooms and it is beautiful to watch.
"I still want to be with him, I still feel like the fucking air has been sucked out of the room when he walks in and I still think about him all the time" (Says Hsin)
Second main feeling: Boyd's evolution is huge. His character development is impressive and so is the way the authors show us why and how he changes. Boyd grows before the reader's eyes. I love you, blondie, you've given me wonderful moments, hair-raising quotes and some well deserved tears.
"I love you more than I ever love anyone. I think about you all the time. It´s been hell trying to keep myself away- everytime you are close I just want to touch you-. I would do anything for you. And if I could have anything in the world right now, I would be in a relationship with you" (Boyd to Hsin)
Third thing to highlight: Even if I think some of the missions were a bit too much (too long, too detailed...) all of them served their purpose: to get to know the character more deeply and, of course, to get some good action.
And my fourth thought goes to: The side characters. They are the bomb. Every single one of them. The ones you knew, and the new additions. The ones you love, the ones you just like or dislike, and the ones you hate. All of them are complex and perfectly structured. You understand their motivations. Awesome work here. And, of course, I have my special mention in this regard
This one has it all: love, mystery, delicious bickering, deep conversations, fantastic sex scenes (role playing included. Yay!) and a lot of action. And I insist about the world building, because it is wonderful and a delight to sci-fi fans.
A highly recommend series, even if the Director´s cut is gonna be better.
Note to readers: This is book 3 in a series. Can't be read as standalone.
Also, I kept my review spoiler free but the comments below contain spoilers, so be careful reading them, please! It's for your own good! You don't want to know, believe me. Not yet.
Read
March 8, 2018This one was even better than Afterimage! Despite being so long it was more fast-paced but definitely not less intense. This one had me as much on the edge of my seat as book 1 and 2. We got to see a little more of each character, not just Boyd and Hsin, and there were different settings, not just the Agency's compound. I loved how Boyd & Sin worked toward becoming better for themselves and for each other and OMG these two can even be romantic! I also am really curious how Zach's and Emilio's story will play out since I don't think we've seen the last of it.
I was planning on reading something different before starting Fade but then this ending came and I just couldn't do it. Jumped right into the fourth book because I just HAD to although I have a feeling this might be the hardest book to get through in this series. I'm already scared of what will happen next.
I was planning on reading something different before starting Fade but then this ending came and I just couldn't do it. Jumped right into the fourth book because I just HAD to although I have a feeling this might be the hardest book to get through in this series. I'm already scared of what will happen next.
September 16, 2016
5 STARS!!!
The word "WOW" to me has never been so inadequate to describe something awesome.. Until now.
This is a serious masterpiece right here!
And i don't have any delusion that I could come up with anything closely related to describing how much of a great book this is.
A lot had happened and I have enjoyed every hours, minutes down to the every seconds of it. I have a lot of unread book stashed in my shelf right now.. But I couldn't give a flying f**** as long as I'm with Sin and Boyd.
It has achieved many many things for me. And yes! Thats including me forgiving Boyd whom I thought to be the shittiest character I've ever met. And believe me when I say no other character have ever riled me up like he did before.. But now? Man, I thoroughly love everything about him. Yes, that includes his past mistakes. That alone is a testament how tremendously well Santino and Ais could write their asses off.
This book put my heart back together after it being shattered everywhere from the previous installment. It was just so..satisfying.
And man.. I got no other words. I can't prolong writing this nonsense review because I'm totally itching to read the next with that kind of a bomb ending.
But.. Fade, pleaase be careful with my heart. I've heard from people that you are the most badass heartbreaker among the series. But please, please, please.. I only ask you this: put it back together, 'kay?
The word "WOW" to me has never been so inadequate to describe something awesome.. Until now.
This is a serious masterpiece right here!
And i don't have any delusion that I could come up with anything closely related to describing how much of a great book this is.
A lot had happened and I have enjoyed every hours, minutes down to the every seconds of it. I have a lot of unread book stashed in my shelf right now.. But I couldn't give a flying f**** as long as I'm with Sin and Boyd.
It has achieved many many things for me. And yes! Thats including me forgiving Boyd whom I thought to be the shittiest character I've ever met. And believe me when I say no other character have ever riled me up like he did before.. But now? Man, I thoroughly love everything about him. Yes, that includes his past mistakes. That alone is a testament how tremendously well Santino and Ais could write their asses off.
This book put my heart back together after it being shattered everywhere from the previous installment. It was just so..satisfying.
And man.. I got no other words. I can't prolong writing this nonsense review because I'm totally itching to read the next with that kind of a bomb ending.
But.. Fade, pleaase be careful with my heart. I've heard from people that you are the most badass heartbreaker among the series. But please, please, please.. I only ask you this: put it back together, 'kay?
March 8, 2018
Review deleted because the author may have have misrepresented themselves as ownvoices and accepted cash gifts from fans under potentially false pretenses.”
March 13, 2013
Interludes was definitely the toughest book of the series to get through and like many people have said, I was hoping that Boyd and Sin would get back together for a large part of the book. It was torturous seeing them separated and tiptoeing around each other, not wanting to offend or say the wrong thing. I was just waiting for a glimmer of hope that things would be fine.
However, after reaching the end of the book I now realize that Boyd and Sin needed the time apart to really appreciate how much they loved each other and to understand exactly what kind of a relationship they wanted.
They needed space.
I breathed a sigh of relief at the end of the book knowing that Boyd and Sin were still together and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that things will stay that way.
However, after reaching the end of the book I now realize that Boyd and Sin needed the time apart to really appreciate how much they loved each other and to understand exactly what kind of a relationship they wanted.
They needed space.
I breathed a sigh of relief at the end of the book knowing that Boyd and Sin were still together and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that things will stay that way.
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March 13, 2018Review Removed.
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Just so we're clear, Ais is innocent in all this.
http://riptidepublishing.com/a-statem...
https://www.goodreads.com/user_status...
Just so we're clear, Ais is innocent in all this.
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March 5, 2018REVIEW REMOVED
I may still love this book, but I will not support this author anymore.
I may still love this book, but I will not support this author anymore.
November 26, 2017
"How would you like to be in the middle of a Vega sandwich?"
Yep, that quote marked my life. #SorryNotSorry
This book was delicious, there isn't any other way for me to describe it.
Yes, it was a rollercoaster of emotion, but omg Hsin and Boyd.
I'm so proud of Boyd, he certainly went through a change in this book. Nothing too big to make it feel unbelievable, but it was significant enough for you to see that he isn't the same selfish brat he was since book one.
"I live you more than I've ever loved anyone. I think about you all the time. It's been hell trying to keep myself away- every time you're close I just want to touch you. I would do anything for you. And if I could have anything in the world right now, I would be in a relationship with you."
He loves Hsin, he has his priorities well established now and that's all that matters to me.
Hsin, my baby. He's still amazing in everything he does, he's not suffering so much anymore and he's crazy in love with his little blond.
"It doesn't change that I still want him, I still want to be with him, I still feel like the fucking air has been sucked out of the room when he walks in and I still think about him all the time."
Interludes felt totally different from the other books, I don't know if it was due to the change that the characters underwent but even Hsin and Boyd's relationship felt different. It was more intense, honest and hotter. Gez, they wanted to be just like in Monterrey but I feel like this time is way better than anything they had before!
And omg, I laughed so hard with Hsin. His sarcasm and his witty crack me up. It's good to know that those kinds of stuff were genetically inherited ;).
"I have occasional nightmares about us having a threesome with that meat-head. I'm far from being easily shocked."
(For him was a nightmare, for me is something I need in real action now.)
PERFECT! Even better than Afterimages. Can't wait for Fade, but I don't want this series to be over so I'm stalling :(.
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March 10, 2018Review removed.
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March 5, 2018
Without a doubt this one is my favourite of the series so far. While reading it I just could not get over how far both Hsin and Boyd have come. I adored Monterrey and all that happened there but I was always a little uneasy about how intense their relationship was throughout that period, mostly because as is their way the lack of communication meant that neither of them was truly sure where they stood.
I don’t think I have ever questioned the fact that these two love each other, it was always so very clear that they had something incredibly special but I think the biggest problem for them both was that neither truly understood what was expected of them. Sin had absolutely no idea how to navigate a personal relationship, he had no experience with them, and everything that Sin does in terms of human interaction seems to be guess work. Boyd also as far as I could see had very little idea on the workings of a functional relationship. (I mean seriously, look at the women who birthed him.) Lou was his only real experience and he was so young at the time that I’m not sure it can be compared to what he has with Sin, even when they both met Boyd was still so young, I do think that he needed that time apart to grow, to come into himself while not under a cloud of depression. Just like I think Sin needed that time apart from Boyd when he was being treated for his illness and living a life outside of ‘The Box’ and participating somewhat in society. They both needed each other at the start so that they could start living life but they also needed the time they spent apart so that they could discover who they really were, once that started to happen, once they were both healthy and somewhat at peace? WOW!!!
“It doesn't change that I still want him, I still want to be with him, I still feel like the fucking air has been sucked out of the room when he walks in and I still think about him all the time.”
"Sin was more important to him than anything or anyone else and he would gladly give up his life for the opportunity to try to protect and save him."
Monterrey will always be special but the time the boys spent in Vermont was just the absolute business. Vermont is my new favourite.
But it also has made me kind of sad. Sad because it really was very beautiful to witness them both away from The Agency and the pressure that is their everyday life. I’m very worried about what is to come now. I’m worried about the new administration and I’m worried about what Sin and Boyd are about to go through. The little bit of peace seemed too good to be true while it was happening and unfortunately that proved to be the case.
”He wanted to say something more. That he wouldn't have wanted to spend the time any other way. That whatever else he'd have been doing didn't matter. That Boyd meant more to him than anything else in existence. That Sin never wanted him to leave the bed. That he never wanted to let him go into the uncertainties of tomorrow.”
"Things never work out for us. It's always the calm before the storm. Maybe it will always be this way until we finally fucking die in this place."
Outside forces have always caused these two the most pain and as long as they can weather the storms that those forces bring I think that they will be okay. I’m just not looking forward to those storms though. I’m terrified if I’m honest.
The Interludes also brought us the force of nature that is Emilio Vega. Emilio is just one of the most amazing characters I have ever come across.
No matter what way I look at it I’m pretty sure that I should hate him but I just couldn’t. In fact I’m pretty sure I’m in love with him. Boyd and Kassian actually discussed the Emilio effect.
"I don't understand it. I hated him before I met him because of what I thought he'd done to Hsin. I love Hsin; I'll always side with him. Yet when I met Emilio it was hard to hate him the way I had before. He's come onto me a few times, even twice bringing up a ridiculous idea of a threesome with Hsin--"
He shook his head to himself and made a face.
"You'd think I'd dismiss it entirely like I would with anyone else but something about that damn man makes the question stick in the back of my head. I tell myself I'm only intrigued because he looks so much like Hsin but who knows, maybe it's just his charm."
"It's got to be," Kassian muttered, looking irritated by it. "Bastard."
That charm hops off the page it really does. No matter what fucked up or crazy shit he does I found myself forgiving him. There is an incident with Carhart that was just not okay and I ended up feeling sorry for him at the end of it all. HOW IS THAT EVEN POSSIBLE? It’s absolute madness. I will say one thing though, I agree with him on one point. Carhart is totally messing with his head.
”You even have commitment issues with criminal activities”
Yet again at the end of The Interludes I have no answers. Yet again I have only questions. I know I’m in for some pain. I know the next 1200 pages are going to be a rollercoaster. But I do think that at the end, the people who need to know will know that:
July 2, 2017
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Might contain spoilers*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
Though this book was better than the previous one, I still ended up feeling frustrated throughout the whole book. Hsin ‘Sin’ Liu Vega (27?) and Boyd Kadin Beaulieu (22/23?) finally got truthful with each other, and we got a nice relationship I had wanted from the start, however, something always comes along and want to destroy it/shake it up. Although, Hsin and Boyd opening up to each other took forever, it still happened. There was too much of Kassian Eric Trovosky (early thirties?) in this book, which annoyed me. In book one and half of book two, Kassian interested me, but now, for me, he's become a disliked person. Vivienne Amarante Beaulieu (38), I hope you get what's coming for you (I really hope something is coming for her) after how you treat your son and his lover.
“So... why did it end?”
Sin looked at Boyd sidelong before shrugging simply. “Because he wasn't you.”
Zachary Andrew Carhart (43) and Emilio Vega (42?) was unhealthy for each other, but somehow I wanted them to be a couple... which was strange because I don't like Emilio at all because of his attitude and I felt like we didn't really get to know him. Carhart I also didn't like; he's too cold with a stick up his ass. Overall the story was boring for the most part, things got better when things started to work out for Hsin and Boyd but I disliked the ending and I still hate Boyd's valentine job. I hate cliffhangers. But I only got one left, right? Now I just want to finish this series and I seriously hope I get that happy ending I've been waiting for. And I fucking want that fucking Agency destroyed!
“Stop looking at me like you want to fuck me.”
Emilio's expression didn't change but once again he swallowed thickly, shifting and absently curling his hands into fists. “But I do want to fuck you.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Science Fiction (?) - Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book Three
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Hsin ‘Sin’ Liu Vega?
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
December 13, 2013
Since I started reading this series, I've felt so many different emotions, some not very good and others absolutely fabulous... But I must say that, after reading Afterimage, I was scared about what could possibly happen next! And to be honest, I still don't know very well what to feel about this book... It is amazing, captivating and with so many mysteries, that is impossible not want to know more! I hated the beginning, felt so much frustration, that it looked like Afterimage 2... but then things started to get better. That pause in Hsin and Boyd's relationship actually was good for them, and it was fantastic to watch the growth of trust, of friendship and mostly, the confirmation of a beautiful love!
Vermont and a cabin... what a perfect combination! There are no words to describe the Vermont scenes... sex, kisses, tenderness... *sigh*...
And then... then that ending... I don't Boyd to go... that sounds so wrong! It was really a mood killer, and now I'm worried again with what more is going to happen... So, you see, it is very difficult to say what to feel about such a complex and fantastic book!
One final note: I love Vega men(father and son)!!!
Vermont and a cabin... what a perfect combination! There are no words to describe the Vermont scenes... sex, kisses, tenderness... *sigh*...
And then... then that ending... I don't Boyd to go... that sounds so wrong! It was really a mood killer, and now I'm worried again with what more is going to happen... So, you see, it is very difficult to say what to feel about such a complex and fantastic book!
One final note: I love Vega men(father and son)!!!
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March 9, 2018Rating removed!
I never thought it would be possible, but I love this series even more with each new book!!!
Even if it is bordering sometimes at being almost unbearable and even if it is reeaaalllly long, it doesn't feel this way and not once I felt the need to read another book in between. If anything, as for me this series could go on forever and I'm already dreading the day when it comes to an end.
Whereas the previous book did concentrate a lot on feelings, The Interludes had me almost constantly on the edge of my seat, because one assignment followed the other. And even if there was no mission, there were enough either creepy or emotional situations which kept me riveted.
The Interludes was a bit different from the previous books. There was a variety of perspektives, but that's exactly what did provide further insight and I loved it.
And finally, FINALLY(!!!), Sin and Boyd were back on track with their feelings for each other! How long did I have to wait for this...
As for the ending... Let's just say, it made me want to drop everything and go straight to the next book!!!
A special thank you to my dear friend Claire for reading this series with me! It is doubling the fun and makes the heartbreak more bearable! At least a little bit... ;-)
I never thought it would be possible, but I love this series even more with each new book!!!
Even if it is bordering sometimes at being almost unbearable and even if it is reeaaalllly long, it doesn't feel this way and not once I felt the need to read another book in between. If anything, as for me this series could go on forever and I'm already dreading the day when it comes to an end.
Whereas the previous book did concentrate a lot on feelings, The Interludes had me almost constantly on the edge of my seat, because one assignment followed the other. And even if there was no mission, there were enough either creepy or emotional situations which kept me riveted.
The Interludes was a bit different from the previous books. There was a variety of perspektives, but that's exactly what did provide further insight and I loved it.
And finally, FINALLY(!!!), Sin and Boyd were back on track with their feelings for each other! How long did I have to wait for this...
As for the ending... Let's just say, it made me want to drop everything and go straight to the next book!!!
A special thank you to my dear friend Claire for reading this series with me! It is doubling the fun and makes the heartbreak more bearable! At least a little bit... ;-)
February 24, 2015
One would think that at the end of nearly 2000 epub pages there is bound to be some light or hope, but it seems to get even darker, more twisted and utterly hopeless. I honestly don't see how all these characters enslaved by the Agency could ever break free and have normal or semi-normal lives. That small reprieve Boyd and Hsin have been given, having a short time to themselves in Vermont, was such a cruel teaser that it made it even more obvious how out of control they really are and I started to loath their circumstances even more.
But, despite all the doom and gloom, I've found this instalment much more pleasant to read than the previous one. Both Boyd and Hsin have evolved considerably since the beginning of their journey - they've finally discovered a vital skill that is communication and even started using it on occasion which pleases me immensely.
However, I'm more enamoured by another couple at the moment. Zach and Emilio are going to break my heart, I fear. It's one thing for those youngsters to be immature and unreasonable but so unacceptable when it comes to these two grown up men that have been through so much together. I wish there were more chapters devoted to them. I couldn't get enough of Z & E.
And of course, as exhausted as I am by such a long action/drama/adventure, I'm going to see it to the end. But! If after all this torture I'm not getting what I want, be warned - I'll be furious with rage! So it'd better be good and satisfying.
***4 stars***
But, despite all the doom and gloom, I've found this instalment much more pleasant to read than the previous one. Both Boyd and Hsin have evolved considerably since the beginning of their journey - they've finally discovered a vital skill that is communication and even started using it on occasion which pleases me immensely.
However, I'm more enamoured by another couple at the moment. Zach and Emilio are going to break my heart, I fear. It's one thing for those youngsters to be immature and unreasonable but so unacceptable when it comes to these two grown up men that have been through so much together. I wish there were more chapters devoted to them. I couldn't get enough of Z & E.
And of course, as exhausted as I am by such a long action/drama/adventure, I'm going to see it to the end. But! If after all this torture I'm not getting what I want, be warned - I'll be furious with rage! So it'd better be good and satisfying.
***4 stars***
October 13, 2016
What a f**ing rollercoaster : 3rd part of the ICoS series : not a standalone.
It keeps getting better and better. You want some fast-paced story, lots of action, a strong plot with some conspiracy and mysteries, some angst and despair (but not at the same level as “Afterimage”…my heart wouldn’t have survived more !!), friendship, betrayal, some hot sex, a great dose of feelings and emotion,…you’ve got it all.
Every few pages, I went from one reaction to another one, then another one, then another one,…smiling, wondering, getting annoyed, seeing red, wondering, melting, getting desperate, and again and again…
This part kept me on my toes and on the edge of my seat. And above everything, I cheered for Sin and Boyd, individually and as a couple. The development of their relationship is awesome : their bond is…a beauty and let me breathless.
« Mom, please »… « I need him »
And now that this part is over, so many possibilities : how Sin and Boyd will survive this new mission, what’s gonna happen with the new administration (I have the feeling the dreaded word “termination” is going to come up again), what will Mommy Dear and Daddy of the Year come up to, will we know more about the Reapers and what about all the other characters ? …
I so do need to read “Fade” !!!
PS : thumbs up to my GR friends for all the support while reading this book : you made it an even better experience ! I loved it !!!
It keeps getting better and better. You want some fast-paced story, lots of action, a strong plot with some conspiracy and mysteries, some angst and despair (but not at the same level as “Afterimage”…my heart wouldn’t have survived more !!), friendship, betrayal, some hot sex, a great dose of feelings and emotion,…you’ve got it all.
Every few pages, I went from one reaction to another one, then another one, then another one,…smiling, wondering, getting annoyed, seeing red, wondering, melting, getting desperate, and again and again…
This part kept me on my toes and on the edge of my seat. And above everything, I cheered for Sin and Boyd, individually and as a couple. The development of their relationship is awesome : their bond is…a beauty and let me breathless.
« Mom, please »… « I need him »
And now that this part is over, so many possibilities : how Sin and Boyd will survive this new mission, what’s gonna happen with the new administration (I have the feeling the dreaded word “termination” is going to come up again), what will Mommy Dear and Daddy of the Year come up to, will we know more about the Reapers and what about all the other characters ? …
I so do need to read “Fade” !!!
PS : thumbs up to my GR friends for all the support while reading this book : you made it an even better experience ! I loved it !!!
July 12, 2014
WOW. Just WOW.
1042 PAGES! WHAT A FEAT! and it took me 14 hours, spanned over five days, which is good...maybe?
As per the norm of Sonny and Ais' books, it is magnificent!
Hsin is still hoping to get back together with Boyd, but when he finds himself attracted to another androgynous male, who knows what the outcome will be? Meanwhile Boyd wallows in a pit of jealousy, maybe he shouldn't have finished with Sin after all...
Sin and Boyd, wow. The depth on these characters is stunning. They're so lifelike, and feel real. When Boyd is sad, Abbie is sad. When Boyd is happy, Abbie is happy... Well, you get the gist right?
Boyd and Sin have been on a roller-coaster since the first book in the series, where their hearts are torn out and tossed around, just like mine was (yeah, I know, sorry, repetitiveness...)
Brilliantly written, with believable characters. Obviously a few errors, and IS TOO LONG! but other than that, The Interludes is amazing. Brilliant story-line, and superbly executed.
Do I recommend it for you? Why yes, yes I do.
November 12, 2017
Re-read November 2017
June 23, 2012
Brilliant. This is the best installment in the series so far.
September 15, 2016
5+ stars
In Afterimage Sonny and Ais sliced my heart into tiny little slices and trampled on them in stiletto heels. It was most likely the toughest book I'd read up to this point (I will hold my judgement on that until I'm finished with 'Fade').
However, I'm grateful to the authors that they put my long suffering heart somewhat together again in Interludes. Boyd and Sin both grow, they both learn, they both suffer from being apart, but they learn that they can be together, that they can be more 'normal' if they are given the chance.
As always (what else would you expect from Sonny and Ais), their journey is painful, heart-wrenching and utterly spell-binding, but all in all this book is much 'lighter', much more positive than the previous.
Boyd realizes his mistakes and recognizes how self-absorbed his behaviour was before (and the way he makes up for his failures almost destroyed me....), but most of all he grows up and acknowledges his feelings for Sin in a big way. THIS made me gasp and jump up and down in joy like a rubber ball:
Sin's development is phenomenal as a character and even when I thought I couldn't love him more - well, I was wrong. The way he puts himself 'out there', becomes more open and approachable is worlds apart from his behaviour in Evenfall. "Despite everything I've done and what everyone has said about me, I've realized lately that somehow I've stayed more human inside than a lot of other people..." and this is because, despite everything, most amazingly, Sin still CARES.
What touched me most though is his steadfast love for Boyd. It's always there, and he might not know how to label it, but it is there nonetheless, and it is as strong and sincere as it might be, and when he explains it, it is simple.
Sigh. And Vermont was just heavenly, but so heart -breaking because you were able to see what and how Boyd and Sin could be if it weren't for the bloody darn Agency.
And with all the stuff that is going on in and around the Agency I got the distinct feeling that 'Winter is coming!'
I will keep Vivienne out of this review because I can't be bothered to waste even the tiniest thought on that b**** from hell. I do NOT care why she does what she's doing (I'm pretty sure there IS a reason for it), her actions are beyond redemption. Sorry (well, not really).
All I can say - this is beyond epic. .....Approaching the final book with hesitation *dead worried about Boyd and his blasted mission, and how all the intrigue that's going on will affect our two boys.*
In Afterimage Sonny and Ais sliced my heart into tiny little slices and trampled on them in stiletto heels. It was most likely the toughest book I'd read up to this point (I will hold my judgement on that until I'm finished with 'Fade').
However, I'm grateful to the authors that they put my long suffering heart somewhat together again in Interludes. Boyd and Sin both grow, they both learn, they both suffer from being apart, but they learn that they can be together, that they can be more 'normal' if they are given the chance.
As always (what else would you expect from Sonny and Ais), their journey is painful, heart-wrenching and utterly spell-binding, but all in all this book is much 'lighter', much more positive than the previous.
Boyd realizes his mistakes and recognizes how self-absorbed his behaviour was before (and the way he makes up for his failures almost destroyed me....), but most of all he grows up and acknowledges his feelings for Sin in a big way. THIS made me gasp and jump up and down in joy like a rubber ball:
Sin's development is phenomenal as a character and even when I thought I couldn't love him more - well, I was wrong. The way he puts himself 'out there', becomes more open and approachable is worlds apart from his behaviour in Evenfall. "Despite everything I've done and what everyone has said about me, I've realized lately that somehow I've stayed more human inside than a lot of other people..." and this is because, despite everything, most amazingly, Sin still CARES.
What touched me most though is his steadfast love for Boyd. It's always there, and he might not know how to label it, but it is there nonetheless, and it is as strong and sincere as it might be, and when he explains it, it is simple.
Sigh. And Vermont was just heavenly, but so heart -breaking because you were able to see what and how Boyd and Sin could be if it weren't for the bloody darn Agency.
And with all the stuff that is going on in and around the Agency I got the distinct feeling that 'Winter is coming!'
I will keep Vivienne out of this review because I can't be bothered to waste even the tiniest thought on that b**** from hell. I do NOT care why she does what she's doing (I'm pretty sure there IS a reason for it), her actions are beyond redemption. Sorry (well, not really).
All I can say - this is beyond epic. .....Approaching the final book with hesitation *dead worried about Boyd and his blasted mission, and how all the intrigue that's going on will affect our two boys.*
September 10, 2017
Woah. This certainly was a journey of sorts.
Even though this one was rather lengthy as well, I didn't "suffer" it as much as I did book 2. This one had much more going on, and in all kinds of moods, so the whole process was much more balanced- which made it a much bearable reading experience.
I still think Book 1 is the best so far, but this one was closer to that one than book 2.
Still, it wouldn't be me if I didn't have some bitching to do and some salt to spill. I know, I know I dedicated much of my updates to my endless complaining about Sin and Boyd's dynamic, but I just feel like doing a dissection of sorts here as well, because I feel, after all, that I have things left to say about what my thoughts and feelings truly are. Of course, that's not the only thing I have to complain about- so brace yourselves.
One thing I'm strongly, very personally, against is the ridiculous amount of sex that goes around. It seems like the unhealthy interactions don't end with Boyd and Sin being incapable of maintaining a bond with someone without sex being in the mix. The Agency is apparently made up of a bunch of horndogs willing to hit anything with two legs. Can't relate- but that's not the only reason I think it's annoying. I guess I just got fed up with the unecessary amount of sex scenes/references throughout this book. It got ridiculous before I even hit the 50% mark. I just couldn't take it seriously- most sex scenes (or mentions of people having sex) were so random and served literally no purpose to the plot or the characters' development. I just didn't see the point. It was stupid and it lowered the quality of my reading experience considerably.
Another thing I'm deeply bothered by is the lukewarm commitment the narrative shows regarding Boyd and Sin's relationship. At one point, they both agree that they want to take their relationship from a different angle than pre-breakup, where it was mostly about sex. The conversation was moving and emotional and everything I've been wanting since the beginning of times (?)... Sadly, it lead nowhere in the practice. Their main on-page interactions ended up still about sex, or work- with very little, and very unsatisfying domestic/happy moments. I felt cheated- if I had actually paid for this I would have asked for my money back after that.
I actually wrote a nice little chart to illustrate this, on a sheet of paper, this morning- at about 5am. So you can imagine how bad I wanted this idea down.
Let's see, just to take a peek at my discontent. I'm picking all the noteworthy interactions I could pick/the ones that glaringly annoyed me to illustrate my point.
Let's take a look at Sin's interactions with people:
Ivan (a.k.a. "the hyena"- and that's me trying to be nice here):
-Sin felt immediately comfortable around him (???????????)
-They talk.
-Sin smiles.
-Sin laughs.
-Sin appears comfortable and relaxed- plus, he's actually invested in conversation.
(true, there's also sex involved, but listen, there's still plenty of the aforementioned interactions to make my blacklist).
Harriet
Okay, they have like one, maybe two, on-page interactions, but it's still worth mentioning. Sin saw her like twice before he was completely relaxed around her and talking animatedly and interested in what she was saying. At least sex wasn't involved here, so I'll cut Harriet some slack.
Kassian
Okay, this one isn't exactly worthy of complaining, cause even though they did have some progress, they still have some tension going on (but I'm going to complain anyway- especially taking into account that stupid dream that literally came out of nowhere and served no purpose other than the obvious fanservice or whatever). So yeah, their evolution isn't at all nonsensical, but there are still things.
And now. Drumroll please, for the icing of the cake...
Boyd
-Sin talks in short sentences/sounds way too formal most times.
-Lots of frowning/shrugs/blank expressions/ one-word sentences/ angry tones/general disinterest.
-Interactions mostly sexual/too few "meaningful" moments (interactions otherwise seem too awkward/uncomfortable).
-They talk to each other in a very tense way, like they don't really know how to talk to each other/like they're afraid of upsetting the other (gee, I wonder if that has to do with the fact that they lack practice cause they spend about 98% of their time together fucking- the world may never know).
Bonus (or, as I called it in my mind, "the icing on the cake"):
Boyd: *casually says "I love you", whether on its own or as part of a sentence while talking about something else*
Sin: *shifts uncomfortably* *changes subject* *grunts* *insert any other random reaction that's anything but acknowledging Boyd's words*
Another thing that kept bothering me is the fact that their relationship felt lacking in some aspects, like parts of the nature of their bond was based on "tell" instead of "show". Honestly, the most conspicuous change I saw explicitly was that they became exclusive. Other than that, I didn't really feel that much changed. Needless to say (I hope) that I wasn't expecting anything drastic, but at least progressively I wanted to see them grow more comfortable into the new nature of their relationship. It made me extremely sad at one point where Sin is like wanting to hug Boyd or be affectionate with him, but he holds back- and for no good reason at all. I just wanted to see them become happy and comfortable with each other, and to truly enjoy to the max the scarce moments of peace they had together- I don't think, really, that a hug or something silly like that would have been too much to ask. Or maybe casually holding hands or something. But no: nothing much changed. Their interactions are still pretty much the same (even though they are much confident in their relationship, but it's still painful and awkward to "see" them interact)- and they don't even get the luxury of an upgrade in the label: they're still referred to (within the narrative) as "lovers" and "partners" (both of which sound bland and unsatisfying and not really as serious or "stable" as they want us to see their relationship). The first tfew times I read it, I thought it was because the term "boyfriend" would never come up in any context. But no: it's used in regards to Jon and Harriet's relationship- it just seems that Boyd and Sin aren't seen as long-term even by the people who are supposed to back them up the hardest (a.k.a. the writers who are supposed to want us readers to believe what they tell us).
ANYWAY! Even though I apparently have material to complain for ages (I swear, it's all down here now so it's not like I'll be popping out more- until I've started with Fade at least xD), I still did enjoy this very much in general. I only had "some" things to say about some specific topics that I needed to get off my chest cause they had to go somewhere.
All in all, I really loved this book: the pace was perfect, and my god, the emotions were so real! I hadn't had so much fun feeling so much (even when I got angry xD) in quite a long time!
Now- in a bit, but still today- on to Fade I go!
Even though this one was rather lengthy as well, I didn't "suffer" it as much as I did book 2. This one had much more going on, and in all kinds of moods, so the whole process was much more balanced- which made it a much bearable reading experience.
I still think Book 1 is the best so far, but this one was closer to that one than book 2.
Still, it wouldn't be me if I didn't have some bitching to do and some salt to spill. I know, I know I dedicated much of my updates to my endless complaining about Sin and Boyd's dynamic, but I just feel like doing a dissection of sorts here as well, because I feel, after all, that I have things left to say about what my thoughts and feelings truly are. Of course, that's not the only thing I have to complain about- so brace yourselves.
One thing I'm strongly, very personally, against is the ridiculous amount of sex that goes around. It seems like the unhealthy interactions don't end with Boyd and Sin being incapable of maintaining a bond with someone without sex being in the mix. The Agency is apparently made up of a bunch of horndogs willing to hit anything with two legs. Can't relate- but that's not the only reason I think it's annoying. I guess I just got fed up with the unecessary amount of sex scenes/references throughout this book. It got ridiculous before I even hit the 50% mark. I just couldn't take it seriously- most sex scenes (or mentions of people having sex) were so random and served literally no purpose to the plot or the characters' development. I just didn't see the point. It was stupid and it lowered the quality of my reading experience considerably.
Another thing I'm deeply bothered by is the lukewarm commitment the narrative shows regarding Boyd and Sin's relationship. At one point, they both agree that they want to take their relationship from a different angle than pre-breakup, where it was mostly about sex. The conversation was moving and emotional and everything I've been wanting since the beginning of times (?)... Sadly, it lead nowhere in the practice. Their main on-page interactions ended up still about sex, or work- with very little, and very unsatisfying domestic/happy moments. I felt cheated- if I had actually paid for this I would have asked for my money back after that.
I actually wrote a nice little chart to illustrate this, on a sheet of paper, this morning- at about 5am. So you can imagine how bad I wanted this idea down.
Let's see, just to take a peek at my discontent. I'm picking all the noteworthy interactions I could pick/the ones that glaringly annoyed me to illustrate my point.
Let's take a look at Sin's interactions with people:
Ivan (a.k.a. "the hyena"- and that's me trying to be nice here):
-Sin felt immediately comfortable around him (???????????)
-They talk.
-Sin smiles.
-Sin laughs.
-Sin appears comfortable and relaxed- plus, he's actually invested in conversation.
(true, there's also sex involved, but listen, there's still plenty of the aforementioned interactions to make my blacklist).
Harriet
Okay, they have like one, maybe two, on-page interactions, but it's still worth mentioning. Sin saw her like twice before he was completely relaxed around her and talking animatedly and interested in what she was saying. At least sex wasn't involved here, so I'll cut Harriet some slack.
Kassian
Okay, this one isn't exactly worthy of complaining, cause even though they did have some progress, they still have some tension going on (but I'm going to complain anyway- especially taking into account that stupid dream that literally came out of nowhere and served no purpose other than the obvious fanservice or whatever). So yeah, their evolution isn't at all nonsensical, but there are still things.
And now. Drumroll please, for the icing of the cake...
Boyd
-Sin talks in short sentences/sounds way too formal most times.
-Lots of frowning/shrugs/blank expressions/ one-word sentences/ angry tones/general disinterest.
-Interactions mostly sexual/too few "meaningful" moments (interactions otherwise seem too awkward/uncomfortable).
-They talk to each other in a very tense way, like they don't really know how to talk to each other/like they're afraid of upsetting the other (gee, I wonder if that has to do with the fact that they lack practice cause they spend about 98% of their time together fucking- the world may never know).
Bonus (or, as I called it in my mind, "the icing on the cake"):
Boyd: *casually says "I love you", whether on its own or as part of a sentence while talking about something else*
Sin: *shifts uncomfortably* *changes subject* *grunts* *insert any other random reaction that's anything but acknowledging Boyd's words*
Another thing that kept bothering me is the fact that their relationship felt lacking in some aspects, like parts of the nature of their bond was based on "tell" instead of "show". Honestly, the most conspicuous change I saw explicitly was that they became exclusive. Other than that, I didn't really feel that much changed. Needless to say (I hope) that I wasn't expecting anything drastic, but at least progressively I wanted to see them grow more comfortable into the new nature of their relationship. It made me extremely sad at one point where Sin is like wanting to hug Boyd or be affectionate with him, but he holds back- and for no good reason at all. I just wanted to see them become happy and comfortable with each other, and to truly enjoy to the max the scarce moments of peace they had together- I don't think, really, that a hug or something silly like that would have been too much to ask. Or maybe casually holding hands or something. But no: nothing much changed. Their interactions are still pretty much the same (even though they are much confident in their relationship, but it's still painful and awkward to "see" them interact)- and they don't even get the luxury of an upgrade in the label: they're still referred to (within the narrative) as "lovers" and "partners" (both of which sound bland and unsatisfying and not really as serious or "stable" as they want us to see their relationship). The first tfew times I read it, I thought it was because the term "boyfriend" would never come up in any context. But no: it's used in regards to Jon and Harriet's relationship- it just seems that Boyd and Sin aren't seen as long-term even by the people who are supposed to back them up the hardest (a.k.a. the writers who are supposed to want us readers to believe what they tell us).
ANYWAY! Even though I apparently have material to complain for ages (I swear, it's all down here now so it's not like I'll be popping out more- until I've started with Fade at least xD), I still did enjoy this very much in general. I only had "some" things to say about some specific topics that I needed to get off my chest cause they had to go somewhere.
All in all, I really loved this book: the pace was perfect, and my god, the emotions were so real! I hadn't had so much fun feeling so much (even when I got angry xD) in quite a long time!
Now- in a bit, but still today- on to Fade I go!
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