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Canes and Scales
***OUT OF PRINT EDITION***
Prince Linden of Ardaul struggles daily to pull his country into the modern age by encouraging education and tolerance. But his brother Edward, the malicious King of Ardaul, delights in thwarting his efforts, and long years of fighting wars and solving conflicts have taken a toll on Linden’s body and mind.
Weary to his very soul, Linden vacations at his cousin’s manor in an attempt to rest and recuperate. There he meets an alluring young half-Elven bedslave named Alasdaire, and his numb heart responds to the exotic Halfling’s loving personality. But all too soon their tempestuous romance is shattered by betrayal and death. Can their newborn love overcome separation and pain?
Prince Linden of Ardaul struggles daily to pull his country into the modern age by encouraging education and tolerance. But his brother Edward, the malicious King of Ardaul, delights in thwarting his efforts, and long years of fighting wars and solving conflicts have taken a toll on Linden’s body and mind.
Weary to his very soul, Linden vacations at his cousin’s manor in an attempt to rest and recuperate. There he meets an alluring young half-Elven bedslave named Alasdaire, and his numb heart responds to the exotic Halfling’s loving personality. But all too soon their tempestuous romance is shattered by betrayal and death. Can their newborn love overcome separation and pain?
106 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 9, 2011
2 people are currently reading
373 people want to read
About the author
S.A. Garcia
44 books94 followersThirty years ago, I started writing m/m romance. My writing remained a secret lest my friends thought me a freak. Writing about men inserting tab A into slot B didn’t seem the norm for a female teenager. Reading Gordon Merrick, John Rechy and Larry Kramer helped me fill in informational gaps. Yes, I read these books in my bedroom.
As the years progressed and I discovered my sexual path, I still wrote m/m romance, although the stories progressed from lurking in notebooks to hiding on the computer.
Running B-Side, an indie music magazine, helped develop my dialogue and description skills. While traveling to interview bands, writing fiction percolated in the background. Traveling also offered me new backdrops and locations for my stories.
Now I am glad I kept the writing faith. Six published novellas and novels later, my life is a fun quandary of too many stories hindered by slow typing skills. I accept the silly challenge.
When not obsessing over unique ways to describe erotic encounters, I enjoy reading, gardening or more like trying not to kill everything, traveling, arguing politics and teaching my house bunnies tricks. Unfortunately, the furry furies refuse to answer e-mails or blog posts. They also refuse to clean their litter boxes. Brats. I enjoy cooking for my beloved partner because she endures the endless experiments with grace.
I hope my manic devotion to words and romance connects with my readers. Is that a sincere enough ending? Drat, the sentiment needs work. Blame my sloppy muse.
Now for my bio’s promo section:
In 2011, Dreamspinner Press released the romantic Serpent and Elf fantasy Canes and Scales, the dark comedy To Save A Shining Soul, sad short Baron’s Last Hunt and the sci-fi dramedy Divine Devine’s Love Song, although I don’t think readers know about Divine. My next short novella, Love in Focus, was released as part of DPS’s Time is Eternity anthology. Although no animals were harmed in the story, cats did not like it.
Silver Publishing unleashed sexy incubus Amando and his story Temptation of the Incubus in October 2011. An Elf for All Centuries, introducing sexy, bratty Prince Fabion, released on May 26 through Silver with lovely reviews in tow. Huzzah! It also made at least one top ten list. Cool.
Cupid Knows Best, my comedic contemporary Dreamspinner release in October 2012, is my latest effort. I think I offended a few more cats. What can I say; my hero has hamsters. Guess that's not heroic enough for the masses.
As the years progressed and I discovered my sexual path, I still wrote m/m romance, although the stories progressed from lurking in notebooks to hiding on the computer.
Running B-Side, an indie music magazine, helped develop my dialogue and description skills. While traveling to interview bands, writing fiction percolated in the background. Traveling also offered me new backdrops and locations for my stories.
Now I am glad I kept the writing faith. Six published novellas and novels later, my life is a fun quandary of too many stories hindered by slow typing skills. I accept the silly challenge.
When not obsessing over unique ways to describe erotic encounters, I enjoy reading, gardening or more like trying not to kill everything, traveling, arguing politics and teaching my house bunnies tricks. Unfortunately, the furry furies refuse to answer e-mails or blog posts. They also refuse to clean their litter boxes. Brats. I enjoy cooking for my beloved partner because she endures the endless experiments with grace.
I hope my manic devotion to words and romance connects with my readers. Is that a sincere enough ending? Drat, the sentiment needs work. Blame my sloppy muse.
Now for my bio’s promo section:
In 2011, Dreamspinner Press released the romantic Serpent and Elf fantasy Canes and Scales, the dark comedy To Save A Shining Soul, sad short Baron’s Last Hunt and the sci-fi dramedy Divine Devine’s Love Song, although I don’t think readers know about Divine. My next short novella, Love in Focus, was released as part of DPS’s Time is Eternity anthology. Although no animals were harmed in the story, cats did not like it.
Silver Publishing unleashed sexy incubus Amando and his story Temptation of the Incubus in October 2011. An Elf for All Centuries, introducing sexy, bratty Prince Fabion, released on May 26 through Silver with lovely reviews in tow. Huzzah! It also made at least one top ten list. Cool.
Cupid Knows Best, my comedic contemporary Dreamspinner release in October 2012, is my latest effort. I think I offended a few more cats. What can I say; my hero has hamsters. Guess that's not heroic enough for the masses.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
May 19, 2017
Cross-posted at Outlaw Reviews and at Shelf Inflicted
Lovely!
Canes and Scales was the perfect story for me to read while on my way to New Jersey for a friend’s wedding. This is a quietly absorbing, gentle, and magical tale of two very different men, their devoted love, and the hardships they endure – prejudice, betrayal, and treachery. It was extremely easy for me to get lost in this story in spite of traffic jams and bumpy roads.
(If you want to know why it was essential for me to get lost in a story while driving to New Jersey, then read my review of The Pines).
Told from alternating viewpoints, we first meet Linden, the battle-weary Serpent Prince of Ardaul, who is on his way to his cousin Keith’s country home for a much-needed vacation from wars and his crazy, power-hungry brother, King Edward, who despises the Prince’s progressive politics. Keith has provided his cousin respite from his duties in the form of Alasdaire, a 20-year-old half-elven pleasure slave.
Life is difficult for Alasdaire, who is lonely since his mother’s death and unwelcome in either the human or elven communities. Despite his noble status, he has been banished from his family home after committing a vengeful act against his father and is sold to Lord Keith. To ensure Alasdaire serves his sentence, he is forced to wear a Torvine Catch around his neck which will release poison needles if Alasdaire ventures outside the estate’s boundaries.
We learn more about Alasdaire’s and Linden’s past, and watch their relationship develop from one based on sex to something much deeper. There are formal dinners, noble visits and other activities to keep the men busy. Linden also keeps abreast of news in the city and palace affairs, and answers communications when necessary. There are 20 years between the men and I appreciated that their age difference is quite evident throughout the story.
There is treachery, separation, violence, healing Elven magic and Serpent power. While the sex scenes are delicate and understated, I found Alasdaire’s reading of erotic poetry while he is being pleasured by Linden extremely sexy. There are flowery declarations of love and minimal conflicts, but there is enough mystery, magic and deception to keep this reader flipping pages.
If you crave intense drama, relationship conflicts, and graphic sex, this is not the story for you. This is a beautifully written, highly descriptive fantasy story with steampunk elements that would be suitable for those readers who like a lot of sweetness amidst all the hardships and treachery the characters face.
I was thoroughly enchanted by Alasdaire and Linden and hope their story isn’t over.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Lovely!
Canes and Scales was the perfect story for me to read while on my way to New Jersey for a friend’s wedding. This is a quietly absorbing, gentle, and magical tale of two very different men, their devoted love, and the hardships they endure – prejudice, betrayal, and treachery. It was extremely easy for me to get lost in this story in spite of traffic jams and bumpy roads.
(If you want to know why it was essential for me to get lost in a story while driving to New Jersey, then read my review of The Pines).
Told from alternating viewpoints, we first meet Linden, the battle-weary Serpent Prince of Ardaul, who is on his way to his cousin Keith’s country home for a much-needed vacation from wars and his crazy, power-hungry brother, King Edward, who despises the Prince’s progressive politics. Keith has provided his cousin respite from his duties in the form of Alasdaire, a 20-year-old half-elven pleasure slave.
Life is difficult for Alasdaire, who is lonely since his mother’s death and unwelcome in either the human or elven communities. Despite his noble status, he has been banished from his family home after committing a vengeful act against his father and is sold to Lord Keith. To ensure Alasdaire serves his sentence, he is forced to wear a Torvine Catch around his neck which will release poison needles if Alasdaire ventures outside the estate’s boundaries.
We learn more about Alasdaire’s and Linden’s past, and watch their relationship develop from one based on sex to something much deeper. There are formal dinners, noble visits and other activities to keep the men busy. Linden also keeps abreast of news in the city and palace affairs, and answers communications when necessary. There are 20 years between the men and I appreciated that their age difference is quite evident throughout the story.
There is treachery, separation, violence, healing Elven magic and Serpent power. While the sex scenes are delicate and understated, I found Alasdaire’s reading of erotic poetry while he is being pleasured by Linden extremely sexy. There are flowery declarations of love and minimal conflicts, but there is enough mystery, magic and deception to keep this reader flipping pages.
If you crave intense drama, relationship conflicts, and graphic sex, this is not the story for you. This is a beautifully written, highly descriptive fantasy story with steampunk elements that would be suitable for those readers who like a lot of sweetness amidst all the hardships and treachery the characters face.
I was thoroughly enchanted by Alasdaire and Linden and hope their story isn’t over.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2011
He who delights in solitude is either a wild beast or a god.
Sir Francis Bacon
In a two narrator voices S.A. Garcia will show you how two lonely souls can find each other, and fight for this love.
Alasdaire is a mixed breed, part human and part elf, but full blood noble by the two parents.
His live is slavery after his mother death, and even if there is no abuse description in this book you will understand he is a poor and lost soul. Very lonely.
Prince Linden is the prince and second in the throne succession.
His only brother, the king, is a mad man. Linden must fight, travel, do everything his brother should do... only because he has a gentle soul, and can't denied his responsibilities with the kingdom. So he is tired, trusting almost no one, and so lonely... very very lonely.
No tragedy can separate such strong two men, but there are stronger forces that would never let a prince and a half elf be together.
It's a sweet fairy tale, and are you curious if they will ride to a peaceful land, and finally be able to surrender to their love?
Sorry, can't tell... read it to know.
5 stars to this amazing fairy tale... I believe in love at first sight, and you?
Sir Francis Bacon
In a two narrator voices S.A. Garcia will show you how two lonely souls can find each other, and fight for this love.
Alasdaire is a mixed breed, part human and part elf, but full blood noble by the two parents.
His live is slavery after his mother death, and even if there is no abuse description in this book you will understand he is a poor and lost soul. Very lonely.
Prince Linden is the prince and second in the throne succession.
His only brother, the king, is a mad man. Linden must fight, travel, do everything his brother should do... only because he has a gentle soul, and can't denied his responsibilities with the kingdom. So he is tired, trusting almost no one, and so lonely... very very lonely.
No tragedy can separate such strong two men, but there are stronger forces that would never let a prince and a half elf be together.
It's a sweet fairy tale, and are you curious if they will ride to a peaceful land, and finally be able to surrender to their love?
Sorry, can't tell... read it to know.
5 stars to this amazing fairy tale... I believe in love at first sight, and you?
August 31, 2014
Canes and Scales: the Novel is a completely different animal than the novella. It's re-written, re-edited and is 350 pages long.
I'm not sure why Goodreads is not listing the 2nd edition. Hopefully this wlll be sussed out!
The release date of the novel is tomorrow, July 11th.
Thanks for caring!
I'm not sure why Goodreads is not listing the 2nd edition. Hopefully this wlll be sussed out!
The release date of the novel is tomorrow, July 11th.
Thanks for caring!
September 13, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
-
I'm going to do this a bit differently because the book was kind of trippy. Objectively, this is a well written and fairly interesting book. Subjectively, I found this to be strange, a little surreal, and honestly, kind of disturbing. The whole story was like an exercise in contradiction. And so is this review because I still have no idea what to make of it… plus, it depends.
This story's setting is a strange melding of fantasy and modernity. I loved the language and wording used in the structure of the story. The book has a very distinctive voice to it that matches well with the depicted subject. The world building is good, but the plot was slow to start. I found Part 1 kind of boring after the first 50 pages or so, but the second half of the book, when the plot starts to expand outside of just Linden, Alasdaire, and Ardaul, was much more readable. Sadly, I didn't really connect with either of the main characters or enjoy the romance between them. They came off as very simplistic and one-dimensional (or potentially the exact opposite depending on how you choose to interpret certain things).
I liked Linden in the beginning, but it didn't really last. On one hand, he's supposed to be this heroic and compassionate prince fighting bravely for his kingdom and leading his people to a better and brighter future. On the other hand, he seems to insistently ignore the troubles and general unease plaguing his kingdom in favour of lazing/frolicking around with Alasdaire. I know he's supposed to be on vacation to unwind and all that, but the stark contrast between how he is portrayed and how he acts really detracts from the character.
Conversely, Alasdaire started as enigmatic and manipulative, and by all means, should've been the more interesting of the two. But he ends up flittering between being deeply disturbed and weirdly guileless. Within days of meeting and attempting to use Linden, he ends up falling for the prince's kindness and charm. It's actually kind of surreal and I really can't stress the sugary sweetness and idealistic nature of this story enough. (Granted, that's not taking Alasdaire's magic and mental state into consideration, more on that later.)
Moving on, the story structure and alternating first person narrative was well done. We're offered the perfect amount of insight into their heads without it being rambling and too revealing. The only downside to the narrative is that at certain times, it appears as though the characters are breaking the fourth wall. Here's an example:
"The idea of a coup still danced in my mind. Remember, the military answered to me."
That was a piece of Linden's inner monologue. As in, he's thinking that to himself, who is he addressing with the "remember" part…? That just really bothers me. I don't like fourth wall breaking even as a literary device, but it's even worse here since it appears to be unintentional and just plain awkward.
And now I'm going to break a personal rule and venture a little into subjective analysis territory to talk more about Alasdaire. Just because this review would've been very skewed and not made any sense otherwise.
Unfortunately though, I really don't think any of that was intended. I don't know, I spent the whole time switching back and forth between taking things at face value and replaying the events again with that theory in effect. Which was actually immensely entertaining in of itself.
So in conclusion, going with option one would make this a sweet fairy tale romance (very simple and kind of cliched, 2 stars) and option two would make it an intensely dark and disturbing read (a lot more depth and mystique, 4 stars). Take your pick.
-
I'm going to do this a bit differently because the book was kind of trippy. Objectively, this is a well written and fairly interesting book. Subjectively, I found this to be strange, a little surreal, and honestly, kind of disturbing. The whole story was like an exercise in contradiction. And so is this review because I still have no idea what to make of it… plus, it depends.
This story's setting is a strange melding of fantasy and modernity. I loved the language and wording used in the structure of the story. The book has a very distinctive voice to it that matches well with the depicted subject. The world building is good, but the plot was slow to start. I found Part 1 kind of boring after the first 50 pages or so, but the second half of the book, when the plot starts to expand outside of just Linden, Alasdaire, and Ardaul, was much more readable. Sadly, I didn't really connect with either of the main characters or enjoy the romance between them. They came off as very simplistic and one-dimensional (or potentially the exact opposite depending on how you choose to interpret certain things).
I liked Linden in the beginning, but it didn't really last. On one hand, he's supposed to be this heroic and compassionate prince fighting bravely for his kingdom and leading his people to a better and brighter future. On the other hand, he seems to insistently ignore the troubles and general unease plaguing his kingdom in favour of lazing/frolicking around with Alasdaire. I know he's supposed to be on vacation to unwind and all that, but the stark contrast between how he is portrayed and how he acts really detracts from the character.
Conversely, Alasdaire started as enigmatic and manipulative, and by all means, should've been the more interesting of the two. But he ends up flittering between being deeply disturbed and weirdly guileless. Within days of meeting and attempting to use Linden, he ends up falling for the prince's kindness and charm. It's actually kind of surreal and I really can't stress the sugary sweetness and idealistic nature of this story enough. (Granted, that's not taking Alasdaire's magic and mental state into consideration, more on that later.)
Moving on, the story structure and alternating first person narrative was well done. We're offered the perfect amount of insight into their heads without it being rambling and too revealing. The only downside to the narrative is that at certain times, it appears as though the characters are breaking the fourth wall. Here's an example:
"The idea of a coup still danced in my mind. Remember, the military answered to me."
That was a piece of Linden's inner monologue. As in, he's thinking that to himself, who is he addressing with the "remember" part…? That just really bothers me. I don't like fourth wall breaking even as a literary device, but it's even worse here since it appears to be unintentional and just plain awkward.
And now I'm going to break a personal rule and venture a little into subjective analysis territory to talk more about Alasdaire. Just because this review would've been very skewed and not made any sense otherwise.
Unfortunately though, I really don't think any of that was intended. I don't know, I spent the whole time switching back and forth between taking things at face value and replaying the events again with that theory in effect. Which was actually immensely entertaining in of itself.
So in conclusion, going with option one would make this a sweet fairy tale romance (very simple and kind of cliched, 2 stars) and option two would make it an intensely dark and disturbing read (a lot more depth and mystique, 4 stars). Take your pick.
July 28, 2014
I was given a free copy of this book for an honest review.
Canes and Scales by S. A. Garcia is a well crafted book that mixes fantasy, magic, palace intrigue and steampunk into a wonderful romance thriller.
The title of the book is taken from the two protagonists Alasdaire (canes)and Prince Linden (scales). Alasdaire is a half breed elf of royal blood and thus decorated with canes along his skin. Prince Linden is of the ruling Serpent family and has scales that adorn his body.
The book is divided into three parts. The first introduces Prince Linden to Alasdaire, who is a slave at Lord Keith's (Linden's cousin) manor. Linden goes to his cousin's manor for a vacation from conducting various wars started by his brother the King Edward. During this time, the two begin to fall in love despite what some other nobles think.
Part two takes place in the royal city after an assassination attempt on Linden. Having freed Alasdaire from his slavery and recognizing Alasdaire's noble birth, Linden brings him to the place as his consort. The newly crowned King Linden must deal with reaction to bringing Alasdaire to court and his duplicitous brother Edward.
Part three deals with the intrigue surrounding Linden and Alasdaire. Having both survived assassination attempts, the plots against them are revealed and those involved facing justice.
Along the journey, both men must face their heritage. The Serpent Kings have subjugated the elves for a number of years. Linden wants to be a more noble ruler than his ancestors have been in the past. Alasdaire must deal with his family and his sense of not belonging to the ruling elven class.
Bringing in the steampunk element to a story of elves was also unique. Alasdaire and Linden try to balance their ideals of progress (steam plants, dirigibles, and carriages) with elven ideals of living as one with nature.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it.
Canes and Scales by S. A. Garcia is a well crafted book that mixes fantasy, magic, palace intrigue and steampunk into a wonderful romance thriller.
The title of the book is taken from the two protagonists Alasdaire (canes)and Prince Linden (scales). Alasdaire is a half breed elf of royal blood and thus decorated with canes along his skin. Prince Linden is of the ruling Serpent family and has scales that adorn his body.
The book is divided into three parts. The first introduces Prince Linden to Alasdaire, who is a slave at Lord Keith's (Linden's cousin) manor. Linden goes to his cousin's manor for a vacation from conducting various wars started by his brother the King Edward. During this time, the two begin to fall in love despite what some other nobles think.
Part two takes place in the royal city after an assassination attempt on Linden. Having freed Alasdaire from his slavery and recognizing Alasdaire's noble birth, Linden brings him to the place as his consort. The newly crowned King Linden must deal with reaction to bringing Alasdaire to court and his duplicitous brother Edward.
Part three deals with the intrigue surrounding Linden and Alasdaire. Having both survived assassination attempts, the plots against them are revealed and those involved facing justice.
Along the journey, both men must face their heritage. The Serpent Kings have subjugated the elves for a number of years. Linden wants to be a more noble ruler than his ancestors have been in the past. Alasdaire must deal with his family and his sense of not belonging to the ruling elven class.
Bringing in the steampunk element to a story of elves was also unique. Alasdaire and Linden try to balance their ideals of progress (steam plants, dirigibles, and carriages) with elven ideals of living as one with nature.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it.
July 16, 2014
I received a review copy of this book via Goodreads' Don't Buy My Love program in exchange for an honest review.
3.5/4 stars for this M/M steampunk fantasy.
I'm a bit torn as to my rating because the book was eloquently written, but I struggled with (slow) pacing. As delivered, this is three novellas packed together--and I kinda wanted the story to move...faster.
Alasdaire is a bastard half-human/half-elf. He is the eldest grandchild to the ailing ruler of the Elven nation in this world. Due to his tainted bloodline, Alasdaire has never been to the Elven lands. In fact, after attempting to murder his derelict father (A Serpent Nation noble) he has been condemned to wear a lethal collar restraint and serve as a sex slave on the estate of the Serpent King's cousin.
Prince Linden, brother to King Edward, is world weary. He's been battling to protect the fringes of Edward's realm, though he believes Edward to be insane--and over-interested in hastening Linden's mortality. Linden seeks respite and comfort in his cousin Keith's country estate--and he finds both in Alasdaire.
Elves are detested throughout the Serpent Kingdom--reduced to slavery and unable to perform their magic due to Edward's decrees--but Linden finds Alasdaire entrancing. They strike up a companionship that is respectful and intimate. Over a period of weeks they become more than master/slave, and Alasdaire is distraught when Linden is summond to settle a new conflict afraid for Linden's life. With good reason.
There are some soft twists, that mainly involve magic, Alasdaire's illegal practice of magic, and Linden's survival as a result of magic--Also, Linden's ascendance to the throne. Can their fledgling love survive the court intrigues and prejudice surrounding Elves? Also, Alasdaire's family rejects his love of a Serpent-Man--Linden. At first.
I liked the world. The steampunk elements were interesting and handled with humor--ie "Farting" steam carriages that were so detested. Alasdaire was rather sympathetic, having been orphaned and abandoned--then later attacked by his deranged dad. Linden is a compassionate prince/king devoted to improving his lands with technology and egalitarian goals which is admirable. While the language is fun and flirty and in keeping with the "steampunk" milieu, I simply struggled with how ga-ga in-love Linden and Alasdaire were. The whole "Our Love Conquers All" theme kinda felt over-the-top for me, considering the characters in question were a battle-hardened, warrior-general prince, and a tormented sex toy. Also, despite all the assassination attempts, there seemed so little actual conflict--considering the length of the book.
The sex was understated, and mostly negligible...sadly. I did enjoy that a M/M romance was accepted as the King's union. Even for fantasy, their relationship was open and unchallenged--with a plan to establish a distant cousin as Linden's eventual heir. This was refreshing.
Unfortunately, I felt the story bogged too often and left me turning pages wondering "Um, when are we going to get somewhere, here?" which explains the lower rating.
3.5/4 stars for this M/M steampunk fantasy.
I'm a bit torn as to my rating because the book was eloquently written, but I struggled with (slow) pacing. As delivered, this is three novellas packed together--and I kinda wanted the story to move...faster.
Alasdaire is a bastard half-human/half-elf. He is the eldest grandchild to the ailing ruler of the Elven nation in this world. Due to his tainted bloodline, Alasdaire has never been to the Elven lands. In fact, after attempting to murder his derelict father (A Serpent Nation noble) he has been condemned to wear a lethal collar restraint and serve as a sex slave on the estate of the Serpent King's cousin.
Prince Linden, brother to King Edward, is world weary. He's been battling to protect the fringes of Edward's realm, though he believes Edward to be insane--and over-interested in hastening Linden's mortality. Linden seeks respite and comfort in his cousin Keith's country estate--and he finds both in Alasdaire.
Elves are detested throughout the Serpent Kingdom--reduced to slavery and unable to perform their magic due to Edward's decrees--but Linden finds Alasdaire entrancing. They strike up a companionship that is respectful and intimate. Over a period of weeks they become more than master/slave, and Alasdaire is distraught when Linden is summond to settle a new conflict afraid for Linden's life. With good reason.
There are some soft twists, that mainly involve magic, Alasdaire's illegal practice of magic, and Linden's survival as a result of magic--Also, Linden's ascendance to the throne. Can their fledgling love survive the court intrigues and prejudice surrounding Elves? Also, Alasdaire's family rejects his love of a Serpent-Man--Linden. At first.
I liked the world. The steampunk elements were interesting and handled with humor--ie "Farting" steam carriages that were so detested. Alasdaire was rather sympathetic, having been orphaned and abandoned--then later attacked by his deranged dad. Linden is a compassionate prince/king devoted to improving his lands with technology and egalitarian goals which is admirable. While the language is fun and flirty and in keeping with the "steampunk" milieu, I simply struggled with how ga-ga in-love Linden and Alasdaire were. The whole "Our Love Conquers All" theme kinda felt over-the-top for me, considering the characters in question were a battle-hardened, warrior-general prince, and a tormented sex toy. Also, despite all the assassination attempts, there seemed so little actual conflict--considering the length of the book.
The sex was understated, and mostly negligible...sadly. I did enjoy that a M/M romance was accepted as the King's union. Even for fantasy, their relationship was open and unchallenged--with a plan to establish a distant cousin as Linden's eventual heir. This was refreshing.
Unfortunately, I felt the story bogged too often and left me turning pages wondering "Um, when are we going to get somewhere, here?" which explains the lower rating.
October 4, 2014
10/3/2014
I feel I should mention that I no longer seem to have any distaste towards the name Alastor, or any variations thereof. -ank names, though. Ugh. (Frank, Hank...they all just sound so dank)
8/5/14
The thing is, though, Linden's kind of a royal asshole, but he's a jovial royal asshole. That makes it okay, that he's jocular.
Alasdaire certainly is the dramatic creature Keith described him as, and normally that would be shitty, but for the fact that he and Linden are perfect for each other. Absolutely perfect.
Alasdaire is melodramatic, but does so with that twinkle in his eye and tongue in cheek, at least with Linden.
Linden is magnanimous and good-natured enough that we're okay he's such a royal.
And here I am, going around in circles.
It's true, though, that these two are almost perfectly matched.
They both have a flair for melodramatic vengefulness.
The thing is, though, if you take a mental step back and look at things from their "enemies" POVs, then it's actually not so outrageous to think that they acted the way they did. Hell, I'm fairly postmodern, so I understand the whole "perspective is everything" thing, so Idk, if I pause and think too much on it, everyone seems in the wrong :/
In a sense, perhaps Linden is the one blind to Leo's suffering. Eh. I dunno. I'm getting maudlin in my not-old age.
4/23/13
My first thoughts
(1) I really don't like the name Alaster and any derivatives/variations thereof
(2) I really want the Elf dude to top.
(3) The title sounds really kinky
post-read EtA:
Weirdly, Alasdaire seems like a kind of ingenue character. I actually rather liked it. It's all written in a high prose sort of style, very mystical. It makes me think of bards' tales and the such.
I really liked the characters. There wasn't a great sense of urgency, but as I said, it was a bard's tale.
I liked it.
I feel I should mention that I no longer seem to have any distaste towards the name Alastor, or any variations thereof. -ank names, though. Ugh. (Frank, Hank...they all just sound so dank)
8/5/14
The thing is, though, Linden's kind of a royal asshole, but he's a jovial royal asshole. That makes it okay, that he's jocular.
Alasdaire certainly is the dramatic creature Keith described him as, and normally that would be shitty, but for the fact that he and Linden are perfect for each other. Absolutely perfect.
Alasdaire is melodramatic, but does so with that twinkle in his eye and tongue in cheek, at least with Linden.
Linden is magnanimous and good-natured enough that we're okay he's such a royal.
And here I am, going around in circles.
It's true, though, that these two are almost perfectly matched.
They both have a flair for melodramatic vengefulness.
The thing is, though, if you take a mental step back and look at things from their "enemies" POVs, then it's actually not so outrageous to think that they acted the way they did. Hell, I'm fairly postmodern, so I understand the whole "perspective is everything" thing, so Idk, if I pause and think too much on it, everyone seems in the wrong :/
In a sense, perhaps Linden is the one blind to Leo's suffering. Eh. I dunno. I'm getting maudlin in my not-old age.
4/23/13
My first thoughts
(1) I really don't like the name Alaster and any derivatives/variations thereof
(2) I really want the Elf dude to top.
(3) The title sounds really kinky
post-read EtA:
Weirdly, Alasdaire seems like a kind of ingenue character. I actually rather liked it. It's all written in a high prose sort of style, very mystical. It makes me think of bards' tales and the such.
I really liked the characters. There wasn't a great sense of urgency, but as I said, it was a bard's tale.
I liked it.
July 19, 2014
I got this book in exhange for an honest review through the DBML program of the M/M Romance group at Goodreads.
This was a great book that had fantasy a long and well thouught out story. interesting magic and technology mix. Love espionage danger and more redeeming love. I found the back history we learn of the kingdom as fascinating as the actual story. I want to read more of Alisdaire and Linden and their friends. With a story this long still wanting to know more and return to this setting make me very inclined to recommend it to just about everyone. the love and sex were as interesting as the story that filled the setting with fantas of this nature usually one or the other is lacking in a sustaining passion for more.
This was a great book that had fantasy a long and well thouught out story. interesting magic and technology mix. Love espionage danger and more redeeming love. I found the back history we learn of the kingdom as fascinating as the actual story. I want to read more of Alisdaire and Linden and their friends. With a story this long still wanting to know more and return to this setting make me very inclined to recommend it to just about everyone. the love and sex were as interesting as the story that filled the setting with fantas of this nature usually one or the other is lacking in a sustaining passion for more.
August 15, 2014
I was given Canes and Scales from the author through the Goodreads M/M Romance Group’s Don’t Buy My Love program for anhonest review. This story is told from multiple povs. Prince/King Linden and Alasdaire’s are told in first person. Three other characters povs are told in third person.
If you want to read a good review that talks even more about the similar things I noted in this book, check out this review by Tsubaki, here
If you want to read a good review that talks even more about the similar things I noted in this book, check out this review by Tsubaki, here
July 19, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
2.5~3 stars
The story is told in three parts and the POV switches between Linden and Alasdaire. In part two new characters are introduced and once in a while readers will get see the story unfold from the Duke (Alasdaire's grandfather).
Part one mainly focuses on Linden and Alasdaire meeting. Linden is a Serpent Prince and has decided to take a break from his tyrantical power hungry brother and his taxing responsibilites to his kingdom. Alasdaire is a half-elf noble who is sold into slavery by his father. Once arriving at his cousin's manor, Linden is introduced to Alasdaire, whom has been assigned to be Linden's (pleasure) slave for the duration of his stay. Finding this an ample opportunity to win his freedom, Alasdaire begins his plan to seduce the Serpent prince. However, the plan goes a bit awry when Alasdaire figures out he can't spell Linden and he's slowly starting to fall for the prince, as the prince is for him. In part two readers meet Alasdaire's grandfather and evil cousin. The evil cousin used a dark spell in hopes to kill his grandfather the duke but has only succedded in making him bedridden. Barely able to speak or move the Duke somehow manages to get words out about finding his half-elf grandson, Alasdaire. Meanwhile Alasdaire and Linden are trying to assimilate to their new life at the palace. Their happy time together is however short lived when they find out that they may have enemies at court. Part three focuses on the Alasdaire and Linden trying to figure out where the danger is coming from and from whom and why.
A major problem I had with the story was the slow pace. It was difficult to finish the book because of this and I found myself getting sleepy every 40-60 pages. It was quite painful considering my Nook kept hitting me in the face and it's not a small device. In part three the story does pick up but I found that that was also a problem. I didn't like the way in which the events kept on unraveling one after another in succession. Don't get me wrong the author did an amazing job with her story building and descriptiveness of how the monarchy worked and the discord among nobles. It's just political intrigue isn't my cup of tea and I found it just dragged on.
I love the display of devotion Linden and Alasdaire showed each other. The flowery words they exchanged between each other was too much for me but still it was nice to see. I did have moments where I didn't like how Linden treated Alasdaire (mainly when he lost his temper). His behavior was a bit cruel and it made me doubt his love for Alasdaire.
The thought process of the characters and their actions sometimes made me question whether or not these were people capable of ruling over a large class of people. Linden and Alasdaire were careless individuals. They kind of disregarded their own safety and in Linden case made very stupid moves (yes, I'm talking about the poison crown of roses and serpent skin). It just made me shake my head a few times at what they were thinking when they went about and did what they did.
The story itself was well written and had a interesting concept going. As I said the only really big issue was the pacing of the story.
2.5~3 stars
The story is told in three parts and the POV switches between Linden and Alasdaire. In part two new characters are introduced and once in a while readers will get see the story unfold from the Duke (Alasdaire's grandfather).
Part one mainly focuses on Linden and Alasdaire meeting. Linden is a Serpent Prince and has decided to take a break from his tyrantical power hungry brother and his taxing responsibilites to his kingdom. Alasdaire is a half-elf noble who is sold into slavery by his father. Once arriving at his cousin's manor, Linden is introduced to Alasdaire, whom has been assigned to be Linden's (pleasure) slave for the duration of his stay. Finding this an ample opportunity to win his freedom, Alasdaire begins his plan to seduce the Serpent prince. However, the plan goes a bit awry when Alasdaire figures out he can't spell Linden and he's slowly starting to fall for the prince, as the prince is for him. In part two readers meet Alasdaire's grandfather and evil cousin. The evil cousin used a dark spell in hopes to kill his grandfather the duke but has only succedded in making him bedridden. Barely able to speak or move the Duke somehow manages to get words out about finding his half-elf grandson, Alasdaire. Meanwhile Alasdaire and Linden are trying to assimilate to their new life at the palace. Their happy time together is however short lived when they find out that they may have enemies at court. Part three focuses on the Alasdaire and Linden trying to figure out where the danger is coming from and from whom and why.
A major problem I had with the story was the slow pace. It was difficult to finish the book because of this and I found myself getting sleepy every 40-60 pages. It was quite painful considering my Nook kept hitting me in the face and it's not a small device. In part three the story does pick up but I found that that was also a problem. I didn't like the way in which the events kept on unraveling one after another in succession. Don't get me wrong the author did an amazing job with her story building and descriptiveness of how the monarchy worked and the discord among nobles. It's just political intrigue isn't my cup of tea and I found it just dragged on.
I love the display of devotion Linden and Alasdaire showed each other. The flowery words they exchanged between each other was too much for me but still it was nice to see. I did have moments where I didn't like how Linden treated Alasdaire (mainly when he lost his temper). His behavior was a bit cruel and it made me doubt his love for Alasdaire.
The thought process of the characters and their actions sometimes made me question whether or not these were people capable of ruling over a large class of people. Linden and Alasdaire were careless individuals. They kind of disregarded their own safety and in Linden case made very stupid moves (yes, I'm talking about the poison crown of roses and serpent skin). It just made me shake my head a few times at what they were thinking when they went about and did what they did.
The story itself was well written and had a interesting concept going. As I said the only really big issue was the pacing of the story.
May 24, 2015
** 3,.5 magical stars **
I enjoyed this romance and the dark undertones of the novel. Canes and Scales had a really magical quality that is much heavier on romance than I initially anticipated.
Told in the first person and from alternating viewpoints of the protagonists, Canes and Scales is a story of prejudice, treachery, betrayal and love.
Prince Linden comes to his cousin's estate to recuperate. Linden is the battle-weary Serpent Prince of Ardaul, his cousin Keith, keen to provide both respite and hospitality gifts him Alasdaire, a 20-year-old half-elven pleasure slave for the duration of his stay.
Alasdaire immedately attempts to spell Linden in the hope of being rescued from slavery and the cruel Torvine Catch which keeps him bound to the estate.
Linden has enough strong magic to rebuff Alasdaire's attempt; but gradually the two men begin to fall in love. Eventually Linden must leave, summoned by his brother King Edward (who views Linden as a threat because of his leadership qualities, a preference for peace and more liberal approach).
Alaisdare and Linden face separation, violence, treachery and healing via ancient Elven magic and magical Serpent power. This is a much gentler book than I anticipated, although some of the themes are dark they are handled with a light touch. It was very much a romantic fairy tale that deals with themes of prejudice and acceptance.
A much sweeter book than I anticipated filled with magic and mystery.
I enjoyed this romance and the dark undertones of the novel. Canes and Scales had a really magical quality that is much heavier on romance than I initially anticipated.
Told in the first person and from alternating viewpoints of the protagonists, Canes and Scales is a story of prejudice, treachery, betrayal and love.
Prince Linden comes to his cousin's estate to recuperate. Linden is the battle-weary Serpent Prince of Ardaul, his cousin Keith, keen to provide both respite and hospitality gifts him Alasdaire, a 20-year-old half-elven pleasure slave for the duration of his stay.
Alasdaire immedately attempts to spell Linden in the hope of being rescued from slavery and the cruel Torvine Catch which keeps him bound to the estate.
Linden has enough strong magic to rebuff Alasdaire's attempt; but gradually the two men begin to fall in love. Eventually Linden must leave, summoned by his brother King Edward (who views Linden as a threat because of his leadership qualities, a preference for peace and more liberal approach).
Alaisdare and Linden face separation, violence, treachery and healing via ancient Elven magic and magical Serpent power. This is a much gentler book than I anticipated, although some of the themes are dark they are handled with a light touch. It was very much a romantic fairy tale that deals with themes of prejudice and acceptance.
A much sweeter book than I anticipated filled with magic and mystery.
July 19, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review
If you love fantasy and LOTS of world building, you will love this book. I happen to love the fantasy genre, especially elves. I liked the the half elf and the serpent prince were solid in their relationship almost from the beginning. Before they meet, Ala(elf) has been abused and is a slave. Linden (serpent) has been fighting his insane brother, the king, to help the people of his kingdom. There is too much political intrigue to go into. Basically, no one can be trusted and everyone is trying to kill them. Through magic and conventional means.
I found this hard to put down. I had to know the traitors were. I loved when the MC'S were discovering how their magic worked together and how their love could save them. My only complaint is the steam punk aspect. I was thrown off by steam contraptions in what felt like a medieval(or older) era.
So a solid 4 stars for world building and storytelling. I would definitely read another book set in this world.
If you love fantasy and LOTS of world building, you will love this book. I happen to love the fantasy genre, especially elves. I liked the the half elf and the serpent prince were solid in their relationship almost from the beginning. Before they meet, Ala(elf) has been abused and is a slave. Linden (serpent) has been fighting his insane brother, the king, to help the people of his kingdom. There is too much political intrigue to go into. Basically, no one can be trusted and everyone is trying to kill them. Through magic and conventional means.
I found this hard to put down. I had to know the traitors were. I loved when the MC'S were discovering how their magic worked together and how their love could save them. My only complaint is the steam punk aspect. I was thrown off by steam contraptions in what felt like a medieval(or older) era.
So a solid 4 stars for world building and storytelling. I would definitely read another book set in this world.
April 25, 2011
4.5-stars
this book was beautiful. I really wish we were given more information about their time apart from each other but other than that i loved this story.
When it started the internal monologues of Linden was pretty dull but once he meets Alasdaire the story really picks up and its amazing!! It was over far too soon.
this book was beautiful. I really wish we were given more information about their time apart from each other but other than that i loved this story.
When it started the internal monologues of Linden was pretty dull but once he meets Alasdaire the story really picks up and its amazing!! It was over far too soon.
May 18, 2011
Nice story but waaaaay too flowery for me.
June 3, 2011
3.5
This was a beautiful, loving story. The story just skimmed the surface of what this relationship could be, I was craving more. Good read!
This was a beautiful, loving story. The story just skimmed the surface of what this relationship could be, I was craving more. Good read!
June 25, 2011
Amazing...AMAZING book! I can't wait to read more about this couple!!!!!!!
July 27, 2014
I received a review copy of this book through Goodreads' Don't Buy My Love program in exchange for an honest review.
Canes and Scales is the story of a Serpent Prince, Linden and his half-elven lover, Alasdaire. The two meet at the beginning of the book, when Linden is visiting his cousin for some much needed rest and relaxation. Alasdaire is given to him as a slave. The story which is fairly long, covers this first meeting, and the trials and tribulations that each goes through, and then when they get together again, all the problems that they have to face together. All of this with the backdrop of political pressures, and loads of danger and court intrigue in the form of attempted assassinations, vicious spell attacks.
This was a reasonably okayish book for me. The pluses were the universe it is set in, with high serpent descendants, elves and so on, all of whom are described well enough to give you a visual sense of them. I really liked the steampunk elements – the use of steam power and dirigibles, and the lovely idea of a world containing both magic and machines.
The plot containing the political intrigue is well thought out, with multiple threads weaved together, all getting resolved. The writing skill is good, it makes for comfortable reading.
The characterizations - I liked Linden a great deal, but I would have loved to know more about how he felt to have new powers as the king.
I had a few issues – one was the length. It took me till about a fourth of the way through the book to finally sit up and get involved in the story. The first quarter is all about
Canes and Scales is the story of a Serpent Prince, Linden and his half-elven lover, Alasdaire. The two meet at the beginning of the book, when Linden is visiting his cousin for some much needed rest and relaxation. Alasdaire is given to him as a slave. The story which is fairly long, covers this first meeting, and the trials and tribulations that each goes through, and then when they get together again, all the problems that they have to face together. All of this with the backdrop of political pressures, and loads of danger and court intrigue in the form of attempted assassinations, vicious spell attacks.
This was a reasonably okayish book for me. The pluses were the universe it is set in, with high serpent descendants, elves and so on, all of whom are described well enough to give you a visual sense of them. I really liked the steampunk elements – the use of steam power and dirigibles, and the lovely idea of a world containing both magic and machines.
The plot containing the political intrigue is well thought out, with multiple threads weaved together, all getting resolved. The writing skill is good, it makes for comfortable reading.
The characterizations - I liked Linden a great deal, but I would have loved to know more about how he felt to have new powers as the king.
I had a few issues – one was the length. It took me till about a fourth of the way through the book to finally sit up and get involved in the story. The first quarter is all about
September 12, 2015
The author was kind enough to provide me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
***2.5 Stars***
I really wanted to like this book. After reading the prologue and the blurb, I'd expected an angsty story. Instead I got an incredibly cheesy, fluffy, sappy story full of love and happiness, mixed with a little bit of angst that was cured with lots of loving.
The idea behind the world was interesting. I've never seen elves in a steampunk novel. Unfortunately, there was nowhere near enough worldbuilding going on to give me a real insight into how this world worked. There were bits and pieces here and there, like hints of a religion and a little bit of history and geography, but overall it simply lacked details.
I didn't like any of the characters. Alasdaire was whiney and clingy and drank way too much wine. He seemed to constantly have a glass of wine in easy reach, should something upset in any way, shape or form. And he was upset a lot of the time.
I'm not sure what to think of Linden. On the one hand, he was your typical alpha male marking his territory. And then he was this sappy guy who went all gooey and lovey dovey over Alasdaire.
Both seemed to intensely dislike all nobles and yet insisted on being treated according to their status. Especially Alasdaire was constantly complaining about the evil nobles and then demanding he be treated the same.
I was unprepared for the sheer amount of incredibly cheesy love declarations between the two of them. The time they spent getting to know each other was almost completely skipped, making it impossible for me to understand just why they fell for each other.
The sex was a weird mix of fade-to-black and velvet prose. Linden and Alasdaire never got too creative in the bedroom and overall I found the sex a little unappealing.
Long story short, this book had too much fluff and too little world building. If you love your stories nice and fluffy with lots of love and don't care too much about worldbuilding, then this might just be the right thing for you.
To me, the sheer amount of fluff and lovey-dovey had me rolling my eyes more than once. I guess I just had the wrong expectations and was consequently disappointed.
Oh, and I'd recommend to read the print version. There's a map at the beginning and a glossary for all the names in the back, so flipping back and forth on an e-reader can get quite annoying.
***2.5 Stars***
I really wanted to like this book. After reading the prologue and the blurb, I'd expected an angsty story. Instead I got an incredibly cheesy, fluffy, sappy story full of love and happiness, mixed with a little bit of angst that was cured with lots of loving.
The idea behind the world was interesting. I've never seen elves in a steampunk novel. Unfortunately, there was nowhere near enough worldbuilding going on to give me a real insight into how this world worked. There were bits and pieces here and there, like hints of a religion and a little bit of history and geography, but overall it simply lacked details.
I didn't like any of the characters. Alasdaire was whiney and clingy and drank way too much wine. He seemed to constantly have a glass of wine in easy reach, should something upset in any way, shape or form. And he was upset a lot of the time.
I'm not sure what to think of Linden. On the one hand, he was your typical alpha male marking his territory. And then he was this sappy guy who went all gooey and lovey dovey over Alasdaire.
Both seemed to intensely dislike all nobles and yet insisted on being treated according to their status. Especially Alasdaire was constantly complaining about the evil nobles and then demanding he be treated the same.
I was unprepared for the sheer amount of incredibly cheesy love declarations between the two of them. The time they spent getting to know each other was almost completely skipped, making it impossible for me to understand just why they fell for each other.
The sex was a weird mix of fade-to-black and velvet prose. Linden and Alasdaire never got too creative in the bedroom and overall I found the sex a little unappealing.
Long story short, this book had too much fluff and too little world building. If you love your stories nice and fluffy with lots of love and don't care too much about worldbuilding, then this might just be the right thing for you.
To me, the sheer amount of fluff and lovey-dovey had me rolling my eyes more than once. I guess I just had the wrong expectations and was consequently disappointed.
Oh, and I'd recommend to read the print version. There's a map at the beginning and a glossary for all the names in the back, so flipping back and forth on an e-reader can get quite annoying.
July 27, 2014
(This book was given freely via the GoodReads Don't Buy my Love program in return for an honest review.
4.5 stars
What words could one use to describe this story? Fantasy tops the list. The setting is a steampunk fantasy world, versus the scifi ones you would normally see. An almost medieval world with steam advancements. There's no powered flight or cars, but there are dirigibles and steam-powered carriages.
Magical is another. Both main characters are magic-wielders. Prince Linden is the co-ruler (alongside his brother, Edward). Edward rules as Serpent King, while Linden is the Serpent Prince. Opposite Linden is Alasdaire, a half-human, half-elf, noble in birth, but his cruel father abandons him and has him ensnared with a poisoned collar as a bed-slave under the watchful eye of Lord Keith, Linden's cousin.
In Part I of the book: Prince Linden is on "vacation" from his duties as a warlord when he meets Alasdaire. Linden falls head over heels for the elf, instantly recognizing his noble birth and becomes a guardian for him while he resides at Keith's residence. This parts ends with intrigue and plots against Linden, and the freeing of Alasdaire from his enslavery.
In parts II and III of the book: These are set mostly within the ruling city and the court of King Linden. Linden wants peace to reign and poverty to end. However, not everyone wants Linden to succeed. There is plenty of magic, mystery and intrigue, assassination attempts and grizzly death/murder scenes.
The secondary characters are intriguing and genuine. You love them or hate them as the author intends. Linden's 'right-hand man' Jenkins, his valet, Gerald, and his cousin, Keith, are particularly likeable.
The entire book is written in an old-style high(er) English. For the most part it was great read, but a few times I was distracted by the repetition and overly flowery speech. (Enough for me to verbally knock a half-star off.)
The author states at the beginning of the book that this is an expanded story. Part I can definately stand alone, but Parts II and III cannot.
4.5 stars
What words could one use to describe this story? Fantasy tops the list. The setting is a steampunk fantasy world, versus the scifi ones you would normally see. An almost medieval world with steam advancements. There's no powered flight or cars, but there are dirigibles and steam-powered carriages.
Magical is another. Both main characters are magic-wielders. Prince Linden is the co-ruler (alongside his brother, Edward). Edward rules as Serpent King, while Linden is the Serpent Prince. Opposite Linden is Alasdaire, a half-human, half-elf, noble in birth, but his cruel father abandons him and has him ensnared with a poisoned collar as a bed-slave under the watchful eye of Lord Keith, Linden's cousin.
In Part I of the book: Prince Linden is on "vacation" from his duties as a warlord when he meets Alasdaire. Linden falls head over heels for the elf, instantly recognizing his noble birth and becomes a guardian for him while he resides at Keith's residence. This parts ends with intrigue and plots against Linden, and the freeing of Alasdaire from his enslavery.
In parts II and III of the book: These are set mostly within the ruling city and the court of King Linden. Linden wants peace to reign and poverty to end. However, not everyone wants Linden to succeed. There is plenty of magic, mystery and intrigue, assassination attempts and grizzly death/murder scenes.
The secondary characters are intriguing and genuine. You love them or hate them as the author intends. Linden's 'right-hand man' Jenkins, his valet, Gerald, and his cousin, Keith, are particularly likeable.
The entire book is written in an old-style high(er) English. For the most part it was great read, but a few times I was distracted by the repetition and overly flowery speech. (Enough for me to verbally knock a half-star off.)
The author states at the beginning of the book that this is an expanded story. Part I can definately stand alone, but Parts II and III cannot.
August 4, 2014
2.75-3 stars. This is mainly the story of Linden, brother of an insane cruel king, and Alasdaire, a half human half elf forced into slavery by his human father. The two meet at Linden’s cousin’s estate and to escape slavery, Alasdaire plans to seduce the Prince, Linden, so Linden will free him. But Linden is legitimately fascinated by Alasdaire and they fall in love. Bu Linden’s brother, Edward, conspires to kill Linden and Linden stages a coup and imprisons Edwards and takes the thrown, freeing and bringing Alasdaire to the palace as his lover.
Alasdaire and Linden try to learn to live together at the palace while enduring the scorn and hate of the nobles who conspire against Linden and despise the elf in Alasdaire. In addition we learn of Alasdaire’s grandfather and his evil cousin who has attempted to kill their grandfather. The stakes are rising as Alasdaire and Linden struggle to find who the conspirators are before one or both of them end up dead.
I liked the story itself. It’s unique and contains a fascinating world with a long history of both good and terrible destruction. Alasdair and Linden are true to each other and even when everything is stacked against them they stick together and never fault their love.
The biggest problem with the story is pacing. A good 75 pages should have been cut out. There is too much waiting for something to happen and the lovey doveyness between our two heroes a bit overdone.
The characters also undergo personality changes as the book progresses. The Linden and Alasdaire we meet in the first part are not the same two we meet in the second part. Linden in particular becomes less likeable as the story progresses and I questioned his ability to rule effectively. However, the side characters are very well written and interwoven seamlessly though the story.
Overall an interesting story if you can get through the periods of slowness.
I received a copy of story as part of the M/M Group DBML program
Alasdaire and Linden try to learn to live together at the palace while enduring the scorn and hate of the nobles who conspire against Linden and despise the elf in Alasdaire. In addition we learn of Alasdaire’s grandfather and his evil cousin who has attempted to kill their grandfather. The stakes are rising as Alasdaire and Linden struggle to find who the conspirators are before one or both of them end up dead.
I liked the story itself. It’s unique and contains a fascinating world with a long history of both good and terrible destruction. Alasdair and Linden are true to each other and even when everything is stacked against them they stick together and never fault their love.
The biggest problem with the story is pacing. A good 75 pages should have been cut out. There is too much waiting for something to happen and the lovey doveyness between our two heroes a bit overdone.
The characters also undergo personality changes as the book progresses. The Linden and Alasdaire we meet in the first part are not the same two we meet in the second part. Linden in particular becomes less likeable as the story progresses and I questioned his ability to rule effectively. However, the side characters are very well written and interwoven seamlessly though the story.
Overall an interesting story if you can get through the periods of slowness.
I received a copy of story as part of the M/M Group DBML program
June 12, 2015
“Canes and Scales” is a fantasy romance with drama, intrigue, and xxxxx. As with SA Garcia’s other fantasy story that I’ve read, “An Elf for All Centuries”, this story is written with a flourish that includes an overabundance of adjectives and adverbs. For some, this may be off-putting, but SA Garcia’s writing is such that I have found it worthwhile to accustom myself to the style. “Canes and Scales” is more serious than “An Elf for All Centuries”, with the abuse of Alasdaire and the madness of Linden’s brother. I found I couldn’t put it down.
The world building is wonderful and includes two brilliant maps, a full history, and weather trends, which adds to the depth of the story and emphasises how much of a struggle Linden faces in modernising Ardaul and the problems Linden and Alasdaire’s relationship faces other than the usual slave/prince and interspecies issues. As for the characters, I loved that Linden was still a bit naive and Alasdaire, despite his situation, was still a fighter who took pleasure in nature.
I would recommend this story for lovers of high fantasy, intrigue, and those who enjoy reading a romance where the problems are external not internal. Having read “An Elf for All Centuries” and “A Moon Too Far”, it seems that SA Garcia deliberately makes her fantasy stories a bit more flowery (word-wise) than she did her science fiction, but I would probably need to read more of her work to be sure. Having said that, I did enjoy both the other stories I read.
The world building is wonderful and includes two brilliant maps, a full history, and weather trends, which adds to the depth of the story and emphasises how much of a struggle Linden faces in modernising Ardaul and the problems Linden and Alasdaire’s relationship faces other than the usual slave/prince and interspecies issues. As for the characters, I loved that Linden was still a bit naive and Alasdaire, despite his situation, was still a fighter who took pleasure in nature.
I would recommend this story for lovers of high fantasy, intrigue, and those who enjoy reading a romance where the problems are external not internal. Having read “An Elf for All Centuries” and “A Moon Too Far”, it seems that SA Garcia deliberately makes her fantasy stories a bit more flowery (word-wise) than she did her science fiction, but I would probably need to read more of her work to be sure. Having said that, I did enjoy both the other stories I read.
March 5, 2015
****Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance****
An expansion of a novella, Canes and Scales has a lot going for it. It is a high fantasy tale that includes steampunk as well as elves and magic. It portrays an interesting world with an evil king, a benevolent prince, and an ill-used half-elf noble turned pleasure slave.
I liked Prince Linden and Aladaire both as individuals and as a couple. I liked that there wasn’t a big misunderstanding that tore them apart; they kept things from each other for short periods of time but always quickly reconciled and forgave. The conflict was due to more external forces and there was a good balance between intrigue and romance. I also found the world to be well described and unique.
However, the narration was bogged down by repetitive, mundane details and too much inner monologuing, making it seem even longer than its 350 pages. I never wanted to give up on the book, because I wanted to know how it all played out, but I grew frustrated at the pacing.
Overall, I would read a sequel, which the author left room for, but would hope that the next book is a little tighter.
An expansion of a novella, Canes and Scales has a lot going for it. It is a high fantasy tale that includes steampunk as well as elves and magic. It portrays an interesting world with an evil king, a benevolent prince, and an ill-used half-elf noble turned pleasure slave.
I liked Prince Linden and Aladaire both as individuals and as a couple. I liked that there wasn’t a big misunderstanding that tore them apart; they kept things from each other for short periods of time but always quickly reconciled and forgave. The conflict was due to more external forces and there was a good balance between intrigue and romance. I also found the world to be well described and unique.
However, the narration was bogged down by repetitive, mundane details and too much inner monologuing, making it seem even longer than its 350 pages. I never wanted to give up on the book, because I wanted to know how it all played out, but I grew frustrated at the pacing.
Overall, I would read a sequel, which the author left room for, but would hope that the next book is a little tighter.
May 11, 2011
This is one of those books that I wish to god I could give a 5 rating. Or even a 4. It was really quite lovely. Told in alternating 1st person POV (which is difficult to pull off well!) it's a very simple story. I don't know why the blurb makes it seem so complex. It's not. There's a prince, Linden, and a slave, Alasdair. They meet when Alasdair is assigned to serve Linden.
Then skips a month. Skips the entire relationship part.
I shit you not. THAT is why this is a 3.
You wanted to spell me and you did but in a far different manner than you every imagined. You showed me unconditional love. You showed me trust. You opened to me and took me into your heart. (pg 109)
It would have been awesome if, you know, the author would have WRITTEN this instead of telling us. If you're going to write a romance, you'd better damn well write the actual romance! I thought that much was obvious, but apparently not.
By all rights, not writing the romance should have put this book somewhere in the 1 category. However, it's a good book. And I thoroughly enjoyed it despite the lack of ... well, everything.
The book is not overtly sexy. So if you're into reading graphic sex scenes, this isn't the book for you.
www.theanonymousmouse.com
Then skips a month. Skips the entire relationship part.
I shit you not. THAT is why this is a 3.
You wanted to spell me and you did but in a far different manner than you every imagined. You showed me unconditional love. You showed me trust. You opened to me and took me into your heart. (pg 109)
It would have been awesome if, you know, the author would have WRITTEN this instead of telling us. If you're going to write a romance, you'd better damn well write the actual romance! I thought that much was obvious, but apparently not.
By all rights, not writing the romance should have put this book somewhere in the 1 category. However, it's a good book. And I thoroughly enjoyed it despite the lack of ... well, everything.
The book is not overtly sexy. So if you're into reading graphic sex scenes, this isn't the book for you.
www.theanonymousmouse.com
November 13, 2014
I got this book in exhange for an honest review through the DBML program of the M/M Romance group at Goodreads.
This wasn't a bad book, really, but I admit I was hoping for more. It's my first book in this genre (with a little steampunk in) and I liked a lot the mix of fantasy, magic and technology. I need to congrats to SA for creating a truly beautiful world, and for showing us the sweet and pure love between two amazing souls. I was captivated by the two MCs.
But the story was too long, sometime I wanted to say TMI, and it was really hard to go on reading some chapters, too many descriptions, dialogue too particular and specific. This is why I gave this story only 3 stars. I really wish I could give it more and in spite of everything, I honestly recommend it, especially if you like elves stories, with a little of magic, court intrigue and assassination attempts.
This wasn't a bad book, really, but I admit I was hoping for more. It's my first book in this genre (with a little steampunk in) and I liked a lot the mix of fantasy, magic and technology. I need to congrats to SA for creating a truly beautiful world, and for showing us the sweet and pure love between two amazing souls. I was captivated by the two MCs.
But the story was too long, sometime I wanted to say TMI, and it was really hard to go on reading some chapters, too many descriptions, dialogue too particular and specific. This is why I gave this story only 3 stars. I really wish I could give it more and in spite of everything, I honestly recommend it, especially if you like elves stories, with a little of magic, court intrigue and assassination attempts.
August 10, 2011
Really well written romantic fantasy. Characters were well developed and real. I loved Linden, he was true royal blood prince with compassion, intelligence and human warmth. He was well developed character. Alasdaire was on other hand mysterious. His childhood story was tragic and interesting. They were well suited pair!
Definitely recommended book!!
Definitely recommended book!!
June 20, 2012
A nice, light enjoyable fantasy romance(m/m). I veered between three and four stars...it's more like a 3.5 for me. I enjoyed the romance between the two men, but I would have liked to spent a little more time in the world...as well as giving a bit more time to the development of the romance itself. I really liked the steam-punkish background...and again, I wanted to know more than time allowed.
February 11, 2012
I loved this book. Wonderful characters and such a romantic story.
March 8, 2018
This book is feels unpolished. The characters felt flat. As much as I love fantasy novels, this is Not Recommended. I found it difficult to keep reading, forcing myself to finish it.
February 8, 2012
It was a nice story though at times I felt it moved too quickly. And for all the lovely descriptions of scenery, which did help to create an image of the world of the story, I still cannot quite picture the prince in my mind's eye, nor can I fully comprehend the intricacies of the story world. In a sense I got the feeling the world was similar to that found in the anime Full Metal Alchemist, with the technology mixed with more traditional things, but in another sense I am still largely in the dark about the nature of the world, as well as the people in it.
I hope a sequel will help clear some of my question marks up for me.
I hope a sequel will help clear some of my question marks up for me.
July 20, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really, really wanted to like this book. I like fantasy so I was really excited about it. I didn't know about the steampunk aspect and that is not my favorite thing but I persevered.
The flowery prose was a real problem for me. I can usually deal with things like that if I can get lost in the story but not in this one. Between the steampunk aspect throwing me out and the fact that both Alasdair and Linden annoyed me so I couldn't get lost in the story.
I think for someone who likes the flowery language and the fantasy/steampunk thing, you'd be really happy with this. For me, it just didn't work.
I really, really wanted to like this book. I like fantasy so I was really excited about it. I didn't know about the steampunk aspect and that is not my favorite thing but I persevered.
The flowery prose was a real problem for me. I can usually deal with things like that if I can get lost in the story but not in this one. Between the steampunk aspect throwing me out and the fact that both Alasdair and Linden annoyed me so I couldn't get lost in the story.
I think for someone who likes the flowery language and the fantasy/steampunk thing, you'd be really happy with this. For me, it just didn't work.
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