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Oestend #2
Saviours of Oestend
Life on the prairie has never been easy, but now Oestend itself seems bent on destruction.
Banished from the BarChi by the man he loves, Dante Pane must find a way to rebuild his life and heal his broken heart. Unable to love women, afraid to love men, Dante wants only to find some peace.
But peace is hard to come by in Oestend. Dante’s new home reeks of death, he can’t keep his ranch hands in line, and his new cook is taking over his house. As if that’s not enough, strange occurrences plague the prairie—dead animals, unnatural weather, and voices riding wind. Dante is determined to persevere, but it soon becomes clear there’s more at stake than his ranch. All of Oestend is at risk, unless somebody can set things right.
With the help of his faithful ranch hands, Frances and Simon, and the combined strength of friends, both old and new, Dante will fight for his life, his home, and the heart of the one he loves.
Reader Advisory: This book contains scenes of violence, and menage relationships.
Banished from the BarChi by the man he loves, Dante Pane must find a way to rebuild his life and heal his broken heart. Unable to love women, afraid to love men, Dante wants only to find some peace.
But peace is hard to come by in Oestend. Dante’s new home reeks of death, he can’t keep his ranch hands in line, and his new cook is taking over his house. As if that’s not enough, strange occurrences plague the prairie—dead animals, unnatural weather, and voices riding wind. Dante is determined to persevere, but it soon becomes clear there’s more at stake than his ranch. All of Oestend is at risk, unless somebody can set things right.
With the help of his faithful ranch hands, Frances and Simon, and the combined strength of friends, both old and new, Dante will fight for his life, his home, and the heart of the one he loves.
Reader Advisory: This book contains scenes of violence, and menage relationships.
266 pages, ebook
First published June 25, 2012
16 people are currently reading
364 people want to read
About the author
Marie Sexton
71 books2,226 followersMarie Sexton lives in Colorado. She’s a fan of just about anything that involves muscular young men piling on top of each other. In particular, she loves the Denver Broncos and enjoys going to the games with her husband. Her imaginary friends often tag along. Marie has one daughter, two cats, and one dog, all of whom seem bent on destroying what remains of her sanity. She loves them anyway.
The absolute best way to stay up-to-date on my books is by joining my FB group. You can view livestreams about Oestend, Coda, and the Heretic Doms Club. I also give away books on a regular basis. NO DRAMA ALLOWED!!
Or, you might want to check out these pages:
Coda: Which book do I read first?
Find a book by trope or heat level.
Visit my website/blog at http://www.MarieSexton.net
The absolute best way to stay up-to-date on my books is by joining my FB group. You can view livestreams about Oestend, Coda, and the Heretic Doms Club. I also give away books on a regular basis. NO DRAMA ALLOWED!!
Or, you might want to check out these pages:
Coda: Which book do I read first?
Find a book by trope or heat level.
Visit my website/blog at http://www.MarieSexton.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
March 23, 2016
Woah, I made an *interesting* choice choosing to read this book in the current M/M climate! Jesus...
I honestly had no idea what I was getting into with this one. I picked this book for two reasons: One, I heard that this book had a character, and the second is that I really enjoyed Song of Oestend and I've been dying to read the sequel.
This book was a very hard-to-describe cluster of different ideas about sexuality that I haven't read in romance before. It was VERY interesting stuff, and I applaud Marie Sexton for going there. I'm going to go into everything in great detail below, but I will spoiler-tag it all in case you don't want to read my ramblings on sexuality and how it is presented in this story.
Now, though I loved the different ideas about sexuality that this book showed me from an intellectual standpoint, I also had some major issues with the story. First of all, I thought that parts of it really dragged. It is a slow-paced story, and it took a long time for things to happen. I found my attention really wandering at times. Also, though I don't mind , I wasn't expected that WTF scene at the end. I'm still not sure what the point of that hot mess was. It felt really awkward and out of character for some of the people in the scene.
Overall, this book was a *thinker* for me. I got a lot out of it, and I would recommend it to most readers who are interested in some of my above spoilers. Note: You must read book one to understand this one. No skipping.
I honestly had no idea what I was getting into with this one. I picked this book for two reasons: One, I heard that this book had a character, and the second is that I really enjoyed Song of Oestend and I've been dying to read the sequel.
This book was a very hard-to-describe cluster of different ideas about sexuality that I haven't read in romance before. It was VERY interesting stuff, and I applaud Marie Sexton for going there. I'm going to go into everything in great detail below, but I will spoiler-tag it all in case you don't want to read my ramblings on sexuality and how it is presented in this story.
Now, though I loved the different ideas about sexuality that this book showed me from an intellectual standpoint, I also had some major issues with the story. First of all, I thought that parts of it really dragged. It is a slow-paced story, and it took a long time for things to happen. I found my attention really wandering at times. Also, though I don't mind , I wasn't expected that WTF scene at the end. I'm still not sure what the point of that hot mess was. It felt really awkward and out of character for some of the people in the scene.
Overall, this book was a *thinker* for me. I got a lot out of it, and I would recommend it to most readers who are interested in some of my above spoilers. Note: You must read book one to understand this one. No skipping.
May 22, 2015
Nice expansion off the first story. There isn't a great deal of recap, thus my lapse between stories made the leap in a bit rocky. But, this takes that original quilt and adds more squares and embroiders it. I'd say that the beauty in the various roles and tying in it with native beliefs was lovely. I particularly like that the wraiths were given their due--really lovely.
Though I don't possess a deep understanding of aboriginal culture I could easily see the similarities drawn from spirit walking to the mesa and Uluru. There's a good deal of non-western beliefs, consequences of colonization, and the stricture of gendered roles alluded to throughout.
The story revolves primary around Dante, who from the last story was not exactly a stellar specimen of manhood. But, here is given understanding and reason for his previous actions. And even those who least expect it can find love. There's a swirl of relationships in play, which wasn't as disconcerting as I feared when they started to play out. Dante is primary, but Aren and Deacon swing through and Simon and Frances play out their roles, too. Each of the couples represent a slight twist of the kaleidoscope.
Overall, engaging paranormal read of non-traditional relationships in a harsh setting equivalent to the Outback.
Though I don't possess a deep understanding of aboriginal culture I could easily see the similarities drawn from spirit walking to the mesa and Uluru. There's a good deal of non-western beliefs, consequences of colonization, and the stricture of gendered roles alluded to throughout.
The story revolves primary around Dante, who from the last story was not exactly a stellar specimen of manhood. But, here is given understanding and reason for his previous actions. And even those who least expect it can find love. There's a swirl of relationships in play, which wasn't as disconcerting as I feared when they started to play out. Dante is primary, but Aren and Deacon swing through and Simon and Frances play out their roles, too. Each of the couples represent a slight twist of the kaleidoscope.
Overall, engaging paranormal read of non-traditional relationships in a harsh setting equivalent to the Outback.
November 2, 2016
3.5 stars
Reader advisory:
Transgender relationship - Ménage - Multiple partners sexual intercourse as part of a magic ritual ...
I have mixed feelings about this book. So please be aware that my review will be LONG. I cannot be succinct. Part of it will be ramble about advisory and certain elements of the story. The other part will be a total compliment.
Regarding Advisory
I know that reader advisory can be seen as ruining the surprise or a twist of a story but I beg to differ. When I choose M/M romance, there are certain themes that I prefer to avoid, because they're not my thing. Ménage and multiple partners intercourse are part of them.
Thus, even if the story is written by my favorite author, I prefer to know what to expect. Therefore I can manage my expectations when I stumble into them. Just so everyone know, the official advisory on publisher's site only stated "Reader Advisory: This book is a sequel to Song of Oestend. This book contains scenes of violence" (as can be seen from this link)
Regarding the trans* character, this also counts (for me personally) as something I'd love to be forewarned about. It's not that I dislike trans*. It's the other way around. I welcome them with open arms because they give fresh storyline. I love knowing that there's trans* characters. Reader advisory about trans* will actually attract me to try the book.
Please, also don't see this as hate-labeling or gender issues or such, I am just a simple reader. I just see MM romance differently with LGBT romance. If this book is categorized as LGBT romance, then I will not make such a fuss.
In this case, however, because there was no such advisory, it shocked me when I started reading and found out that Dante's love interest was a woman. I wonder Marie Sexton was venturing to M/F genre. I even double-checked the publisher's site and her site to find clues. Only until I did Kindle search, I found out that Cami was a trans*. After I knew that fact, it calmed me, and immediately I became immersed with the story. So yes, for this reader, advisory like that matters.
The Compliment
I always love Marie Sexton's characters -- there's certain depth that she infused into the story that just blows me away every single time. Dante is portrayed (sort of) as the 'villain' in book #1. He struggles with his love for Deacon and how his fear of his grandfather has torn his friendship with Deacon. He doesn't like women and it will be easier if he can be opened about this preference to men. That's why Cami is just perfect for him.
Somehow, with Cami, Dante can see her and appreciate her as who she truly is. Someone who is a female and feels that the male organ is wrong. I love their relationship. Cami softens Dante somehow and Dante gives Cami someone to belong to. I love how Marie Sexton touches the issue of Cami with sense of celebration ... like in this paragraph
Somehow the mix of masculine and feminine he found in her was the most arousing thing he’d ever experienced. Not only that, but it seemed absolutely right. There was nothing that felt out of place. It all made perfect sense—her softness, and the feminine pout of her lips, and her reaction to his touch, and the hardness of the erection underneath her dress. How could she be anything other than she was, the perfect meeting point of both sexes? She was exquisite, beyond anything else he’d ever experienced.
BEAUTIFUL WRITING!!!
The Rant (to the plot)
Unfortunately, I also dislike a few elements on this story MOSTLY related to Simon and Frances's story, which become the secondary plot. Book 1, Song of Oestend, has ménage (and I dislike that scene!) -- I am more traditional, I love one man-one woman, or one man-one man, or one woman-one woman in my romance.
While Frances is clearly in love with Simon, Simon doesn't accept the relationship easily. Simon knows he cares for Frances but it takes time for him to accept any romantic relationship with his younger friend. He is not completely built that way.
Imagine my surprise (which turns out to dislike) that when Simon is just learning the ropes about the relationship with Frances, he sees Frances doing it again with Aren and Deacon, just like in book 1. COME FRICKIN' ON!!! I HATE that, it's not really fair for Simon. I know that Frances is hurt because Simon doesn't accept their relationship openly just yet, but I prefer Frances to confront Simon in a different way. Pushing Simon to accept the act is just bullsh*t.
-- and then there's the multiple partners intercourse as part of the magic ritual to heal Oestend. Yes, MULTIPLE PARTNERS INTERCOURSE because all the three couples (Dante & Cami, Simon & Frances, Aren & Deacon) are influenced with the magic as they get rid of the wraiths; that they start to feel the sexual feeling and it's magical and well, BAM, they are all involved in the sex! I know that it's supposed to be part of the magic, but still, as a reader I have the right to dislike that scene, right? I don't sign up for reading orgy! That part I hate with every blood in my body.
... Sorry if this review turns out to be a short story. I do think the story is gorgeous, despite the elements I dislike. I can imagine that this story is not easy to love for other readers.
However, I am completely awed with the alternate reality that Marie Sexton writes in this. I love the western sense and the life on the ranch. Yes, Marie Sexton will always pushes my boundaries, and I welcome it. I just wish I can still have that reader advisory before I read it.
Reader advisory:
Transgender relationship - Ménage - Multiple partners sexual intercourse as part of a magic ritual ...
I have mixed feelings about this book. So please be aware that my review will be LONG. I cannot be succinct. Part of it will be ramble about advisory and certain elements of the story. The other part will be a total compliment.
Regarding Advisory
I know that reader advisory can be seen as ruining the surprise or a twist of a story but I beg to differ. When I choose M/M romance, there are certain themes that I prefer to avoid, because they're not my thing. Ménage and multiple partners intercourse are part of them.
Thus, even if the story is written by my favorite author, I prefer to know what to expect. Therefore I can manage my expectations when I stumble into them. Just so everyone know, the official advisory on publisher's site only stated "Reader Advisory: This book is a sequel to Song of Oestend. This book contains scenes of violence" (as can be seen from this link)
Regarding the trans* character, this also counts (for me personally) as something I'd love to be forewarned about. It's not that I dislike trans*. It's the other way around. I welcome them with open arms because they give fresh storyline. I love knowing that there's trans* characters. Reader advisory about trans* will actually attract me to try the book.
Please, also don't see this as hate-labeling or gender issues or such, I am just a simple reader. I just see MM romance differently with LGBT romance. If this book is categorized as LGBT romance, then I will not make such a fuss.
In this case, however, because there was no such advisory, it shocked me when I started reading and found out that Dante's love interest was a woman. I wonder Marie Sexton was venturing to M/F genre. I even double-checked the publisher's site and her site to find clues. Only until I did Kindle search, I found out that Cami was a trans*. After I knew that fact, it calmed me, and immediately I became immersed with the story. So yes, for this reader, advisory like that matters.
The Compliment
I always love Marie Sexton's characters -- there's certain depth that she infused into the story that just blows me away every single time. Dante is portrayed (sort of) as the 'villain' in book #1. He struggles with his love for Deacon and how his fear of his grandfather has torn his friendship with Deacon. He doesn't like women and it will be easier if he can be opened about this preference to men. That's why Cami is just perfect for him.
Somehow, with Cami, Dante can see her and appreciate her as who she truly is. Someone who is a female and feels that the male organ is wrong. I love their relationship. Cami softens Dante somehow and Dante gives Cami someone to belong to. I love how Marie Sexton touches the issue of Cami with sense of celebration ... like in this paragraph
Somehow the mix of masculine and feminine he found in her was the most arousing thing he’d ever experienced. Not only that, but it seemed absolutely right. There was nothing that felt out of place. It all made perfect sense—her softness, and the feminine pout of her lips, and her reaction to his touch, and the hardness of the erection underneath her dress. How could she be anything other than she was, the perfect meeting point of both sexes? She was exquisite, beyond anything else he’d ever experienced.
BEAUTIFUL WRITING!!!
The Rant (to the plot)
Unfortunately, I also dislike a few elements on this story MOSTLY related to Simon and Frances's story, which become the secondary plot. Book 1, Song of Oestend, has ménage (and I dislike that scene!) -- I am more traditional, I love one man-one woman, or one man-one man, or one woman-one woman in my romance.
While Frances is clearly in love with Simon, Simon doesn't accept the relationship easily. Simon knows he cares for Frances but it takes time for him to accept any romantic relationship with his younger friend. He is not completely built that way.
Imagine my surprise (which turns out to dislike) that when Simon is just learning the ropes about the relationship with Frances, he sees Frances doing it again with Aren and Deacon, just like in book 1. COME FRICKIN' ON!!! I HATE that, it's not really fair for Simon. I know that Frances is hurt because Simon doesn't accept their relationship openly just yet, but I prefer Frances to confront Simon in a different way. Pushing Simon to accept the act is just bullsh*t.
-- and then there's the multiple partners intercourse as part of the magic ritual to heal Oestend. Yes, MULTIPLE PARTNERS INTERCOURSE because all the three couples (Dante & Cami, Simon & Frances, Aren & Deacon) are influenced with the magic as they get rid of the wraiths; that they start to feel the sexual feeling and it's magical and well, BAM, they are all involved in the sex! I know that it's supposed to be part of the magic, but still, as a reader I have the right to dislike that scene, right? I don't sign up for reading orgy! That part I hate with every blood in my body.
... Sorry if this review turns out to be a short story. I do think the story is gorgeous, despite the elements I dislike. I can imagine that this story is not easy to love for other readers.
However, I am completely awed with the alternate reality that Marie Sexton writes in this. I love the western sense and the life on the ranch. Yes, Marie Sexton will always pushes my boundaries, and I welcome it. I just wish I can still have that reader advisory before I read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2015
OK, I gave this book a chance even though I DNFed the last one over the "good rape" scene between the main characters (in which one MC performs sex acts on a supposed friend despite his protestations, and the scene is not treated as an assault but as a romantic interlude).
However, this one was worse. First there are pages of soapboxing about female rape. Wow. Apparently she really is so shallow that she believes that a big strong man can't be raped but a woman can? Because of course if he really didn't want it he could have stopped it, and there is no such thing as rape via coercion?
But then... The self - hating gay man who has no desire for women ends up with the transgender woman?? She is a woman! Why is this romantic? The idea that it is OK for him to desire what is under her clothes but not her image of herself is so offensive! It just stinks of "the best of both worlds, a man in the bedroom but a woman in public," and that is kind of how it plays out. It is definitely made clear that he would not desire her if she had female genitalia, which is just a major slight. He had access to a cute willing gay boy but couldn't do it because he was too ashamed, had been in love with a man for years but couldn't act on it, then then Cami comes along, and he doesn't want her until he notices her boy body.
I guess the poor woman is supposed to be happy to find someone willing to take her and can't be choosy, wanting someone to desire her as a woman AND be OK with whatever is under the clothes (which should be inconsequential, but is very much not in this case) . That's sarcasm, by the way.
I definitely lost a lot of respect for this author over this series. I had enjoyed some of her past books, but I don't think I'll be reading anything more from her. DNF again.
However, this one was worse. First there are pages of soapboxing about female rape. Wow. Apparently she really is so shallow that she believes that a big strong man can't be raped but a woman can? Because of course if he really didn't want it he could have stopped it, and there is no such thing as rape via coercion?
But then... The self - hating gay man who has no desire for women ends up with the transgender woman?? She is a woman! Why is this romantic? The idea that it is OK for him to desire what is under her clothes but not her image of herself is so offensive! It just stinks of "the best of both worlds, a man in the bedroom but a woman in public," and that is kind of how it plays out. It is definitely made clear that he would not desire her if she had female genitalia, which is just a major slight. He had access to a cute willing gay boy but couldn't do it because he was too ashamed, had been in love with a man for years but couldn't act on it, then then Cami comes along, and he doesn't want her until he notices her boy body.
I guess the poor woman is supposed to be happy to find someone willing to take her and can't be choosy, wanting someone to desire her as a woman AND be OK with whatever is under the clothes (which should be inconsequential, but is very much not in this case) . That's sarcasm, by the way.
I definitely lost a lot of respect for this author over this series. I had enjoyed some of her past books, but I don't think I'll be reading anything more from her. DNF again.
November 10, 2022
Audio Review
John Solo does an excellent job with this one. I really enjoyed his take on the characters. I think one of my favorite parts is when he is singing in the made-up language. He does a fantastic job of it.
D/C & S/F
3.5 stars
Follow up to book 1. Story continues after Dante, Simon and Francis leave the BarChi for the Austin Ranch. This one is told through Simon's POV and Dante's. We experience the journey of their relationships and the ever occurring strange events take place in Oestend.
John Solo does an excellent job with this one. I really enjoyed his take on the characters. I think one of my favorite parts is when he is singing in the made-up language. He does a fantastic job of it.
D/C & S/F
3.5 stars
Follow up to book 1. Story continues after Dante, Simon and Francis leave the BarChi for the Austin Ranch. This one is told through Simon's POV and Dante's. We experience the journey of their relationships and the ever occurring strange events take place in Oestend.
July 28, 2012
This is tough to rate. On the one hand, Marie Sexton is a great writer (one of my favorites), and I love that she created a transgender character. However, the story felt like an under-developed mess. There were too many characters, none of them particularly well fleshed out, and as a result I found myself skimming a lot. The orgy scene (a total WTF moment) near the end only cemented my two-star rating. Disappointing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2012
I loved Song of Oestend. Absolutely loved it. And so it felt so good to be back in the land of the wraiths and that harsh prairie again.
This story is Dante’s and, to a lesser degree, it is Frances’ too. I loved Frances in the first book and so desperately wanted to follow his story. I had to dip back into Song of Oestend to refresh my memory on the characters, especially Dante, and then it all came back to me -how totally miserable and mean he was, filled with so much anger and hatred.
The story begins with Dante cast out, utterly alone, vulnerable and riddled with shame and guilt. And that’s one of my weaknesses right there. I love stories of redemption and forgiveness. How the underdog (and this story has a good few) can stand up and be counted, how love, in its many mysterious forms, can transform and heal.
An entrancing story, beautifully and sensitively told.
Highly, highly recommended.
This story is Dante’s and, to a lesser degree, it is Frances’ too. I loved Frances in the first book and so desperately wanted to follow his story. I had to dip back into Song of Oestend to refresh my memory on the characters, especially Dante, and then it all came back to me -how totally miserable and mean he was, filled with so much anger and hatred.
The story begins with Dante cast out, utterly alone, vulnerable and riddled with shame and guilt. And that’s one of my weaknesses right there. I love stories of redemption and forgiveness. How the underdog (and this story has a good few) can stand up and be counted, how love, in its many mysterious forms, can transform and heal.
An entrancing story, beautifully and sensitively told.
Highly, highly recommended.
September 18, 2020
Still in love with this story, even all these years later. I like the Simon & Francis changes a lot. They feel more solid and complete, now.
December 15, 2013
Well, that was not what I was excepting, at all. I absolutely loved some parts of the this book, especially Dante and the surprise addition of Cami. There were perhaps a few too many romances going on at once for me, though. I think the first book was bit more focused, but that being said, this story has the same beautiful and desolate tone as the first book
May 4, 2016
Making a home in Oestend, is never an easy thing. Life on the ranches is not easy, safe, or gentle. And there are several days travel between you and your closest neighbor, if anything does go wrong. And it will. Then their are the wraiths-–the vengeful spirits of the Ainuai–-that come in the night to kill any not protected by closed doors and the generators that protect the homes of the settlers.
So, no, life in Oestend was never easy…and that was all before Dante got kicked off his father’s land to take over a neighboring ranch. And if having the man you love marry another, and being shipped off to take over a ranch still drenched in the death of the former occupants, isn’t bad enough, something on the ranch is hell-bent of destroying every animal, mineral, and vegetable on the land. Ranch-hands and owner, included. But it is not just Dante’s ranch that is suffering, the whole of the Oestend prairie is being tossed and shaken and beaten down by the Ainuai spirits.
And if someone doesn’t do something soon, there may not be much of an Oestend to live in. Easy or otherwise.
I did not really care for Dante in Song of Oestend. He was a bit of a homicidal hothead jackass who messed with Aren, and that was not cool. Not cool at all. But I get he had reasons. The man he loved was in love with someone else (not that Dante really had the balls, then, to do anything if Deacon had been free and clear), and the life he was leading, with his wife, with his family, was smothering just about every good thing about him. So maybe being sent off the BarChi–-even if it was to a place that still fairly reeked with death (literally)–-was good for him. Because I really really loved him in this book.
Dante still has a temper (and what a lovely temper it is!), but I think it is more focused in this book. Focused less on anyone and everyone who crosses his path, and more on fucking jackass would-be rapists that deserve to have their skulls crushed in. So, that is good. He seems, if not less violent, more intent on using his anger issues to protect rather than to tear down. And in a place like Oestend that is probably as good as you are going to get.
And when Cami comes along, when he finds someone that is worth every ounce of his protection, than it was just so damn hot. Because he loves her so damn much that he would face the wraiths for her. And so damn stubborn that he would probably win. Cami may not be who he was expecting to fall for, but I loved that he did. I love love love Cami, and her role in this story. I don’t want to give too much away, but let’s just say that I have a real love for her kind of character. She is strong, and beautiful, and brave, and smart, and she balances out Dante. Makes it so that Dante’s rough edges doesn’t tear everyone and everything apart.
The world built up here is one of my favorites. It has all the dirt and cowboys that I adore, but it also has all the magic and danger that I crave–-but rarely find in a form that feels so real, so believable. There is so much you can recognize as familiar in this book, but Sexton crafted it into a world of wraiths and magic and vengeance in such a way as to make that familiarity new and stunningly captivating. These characters are rough and not all that nice, but they are good. They are strong and stubborn, but they are also willing to learn, to bend. And the fact that no one gets exactly what they are looking for, but probably exactly what they need, was just awesome. Even love is not simple in Oestend.
I totally and absolutely recommend this book (and this series). And if Marie Sexton does ever write a third book to go along with Song and Saviours, I will be one of the first in line to buy.
This book was reviewed for Love Bytes, from the reviewer's own copy. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
So, no, life in Oestend was never easy…and that was all before Dante got kicked off his father’s land to take over a neighboring ranch. And if having the man you love marry another, and being shipped off to take over a ranch still drenched in the death of the former occupants, isn’t bad enough, something on the ranch is hell-bent of destroying every animal, mineral, and vegetable on the land. Ranch-hands and owner, included. But it is not just Dante’s ranch that is suffering, the whole of the Oestend prairie is being tossed and shaken and beaten down by the Ainuai spirits.
And if someone doesn’t do something soon, there may not be much of an Oestend to live in. Easy or otherwise.
I did not really care for Dante in Song of Oestend. He was a bit of a homicidal hothead jackass who messed with Aren, and that was not cool. Not cool at all. But I get he had reasons. The man he loved was in love with someone else (not that Dante really had the balls, then, to do anything if Deacon had been free and clear), and the life he was leading, with his wife, with his family, was smothering just about every good thing about him. So maybe being sent off the BarChi–-even if it was to a place that still fairly reeked with death (literally)–-was good for him. Because I really really loved him in this book.
Dante still has a temper (and what a lovely temper it is!), but I think it is more focused in this book. Focused less on anyone and everyone who crosses his path, and more on fucking jackass would-be rapists that deserve to have their skulls crushed in. So, that is good. He seems, if not less violent, more intent on using his anger issues to protect rather than to tear down. And in a place like Oestend that is probably as good as you are going to get.
And when Cami comes along, when he finds someone that is worth every ounce of his protection, than it was just so damn hot. Because he loves her so damn much that he would face the wraiths for her. And so damn stubborn that he would probably win. Cami may not be who he was expecting to fall for, but I loved that he did. I love love love Cami, and her role in this story. I don’t want to give too much away, but let’s just say that I have a real love for her kind of character. She is strong, and beautiful, and brave, and smart, and she balances out Dante. Makes it so that Dante’s rough edges doesn’t tear everyone and everything apart.
The world built up here is one of my favorites. It has all the dirt and cowboys that I adore, but it also has all the magic and danger that I crave–-but rarely find in a form that feels so real, so believable. There is so much you can recognize as familiar in this book, but Sexton crafted it into a world of wraiths and magic and vengeance in such a way as to make that familiarity new and stunningly captivating. These characters are rough and not all that nice, but they are good. They are strong and stubborn, but they are also willing to learn, to bend. And the fact that no one gets exactly what they are looking for, but probably exactly what they need, was just awesome. Even love is not simple in Oestend.
I totally and absolutely recommend this book (and this series). And if Marie Sexton does ever write a third book to go along with Song and Saviours, I will be one of the first in line to buy.
This book was reviewed for Love Bytes, from the reviewer's own copy. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
October 21, 2020
I love stories like this, Stephen King and Nora Roberts come to mind, where a group of friends or family or whatever, but a group of people have to come together to overcome a big bad.
Where they have to come together and believe they can overcome the wrong.
That was my favorite part of this story. The unlikely group becoming family and so much more.
The rest, I have so many mixed feelings. This book was like two stories. There were two couples and two "romances".
I'll start with the easy one. The one that was a romance really. Dante and Cami. For them, when I finished I just felt really good. Their story made so much sense to me. I feel that Cami represented the answer for Dante. I know that sounds weird or odd but really, it was the perfect solution for him. Cami, I just am so happy that she found her home and found her acceptance and just gets to be.
Simon and Frances on the other hand...I think I am sad. I don't think I feel that good about them. I want more for Frances if I'm being honest. He's so young and just so much and I feel he deserves so much more than he is settling for. In this case I feel like I want to be older and wiser and tell him he's just young and he doesn't know what love is yet and for him to keep looking. I don't know. I know a lot of readers felt good about it, felt it was in some sort of way good, I just don't feel it. I'm sorry for Simon. I'm sorry for the pledge he made but honestly, it is kind of ridiculous and he failed. Finding a loop hole to make himself feel better is kind of the same as breaking the pledge. I don't know. His firm stance on how he feels just made me want more for them both. Besties? Yes. Partners and confidants. Totally believable. The rest, I just want something more.
Overall this was a great read. I'm a little disturbed and confused by a scene that happened at the end but aside from that, the rest was good even if I don't agree with all of it.
I'm just happy that they found their finally, there safe place.
Where they have to come together and believe they can overcome the wrong.
That was my favorite part of this story. The unlikely group becoming family and so much more.
The rest, I have so many mixed feelings. This book was like two stories. There were two couples and two "romances".
I'll start with the easy one. The one that was a romance really. Dante and Cami. For them, when I finished I just felt really good. Their story made so much sense to me. I feel that Cami represented the answer for Dante. I know that sounds weird or odd but really, it was the perfect solution for him. Cami, I just am so happy that she found her home and found her acceptance and just gets to be.
Simon and Frances on the other hand...I think I am sad. I don't think I feel that good about them. I want more for Frances if I'm being honest. He's so young and just so much and I feel he deserves so much more than he is settling for. In this case I feel like I want to be older and wiser and tell him he's just young and he doesn't know what love is yet and for him to keep looking. I don't know. I know a lot of readers felt good about it, felt it was in some sort of way good, I just don't feel it. I'm sorry for Simon. I'm sorry for the pledge he made but honestly, it is kind of ridiculous and he failed. Finding a loop hole to make himself feel better is kind of the same as breaking the pledge. I don't know. His firm stance on how he feels just made me want more for them both. Besties? Yes. Partners and confidants. Totally believable. The rest, I just want something more.
Overall this was a great read. I'm a little disturbed and confused by a scene that happened at the end but aside from that, the rest was good even if I don't agree with all of it.
I'm just happy that they found their finally, there safe place.
January 17, 2022
Fantastic!
Wow, I'm so glad I finally got around to listening to this one. It was great to see Dante find his happily ever after... and what a perfect way to do it!
Very exciting twists and turns in the plot, with all the magic and mysticism I could have hoped for. Marie Sexton has a wonderful imagination.
Audio beautifully performed by John Solo... complete with singing!
Wow, I'm so glad I finally got around to listening to this one. It was great to see Dante find his happily ever after... and what a perfect way to do it!
Very exciting twists and turns in the plot, with all the magic and mysticism I could have hoped for. Marie Sexton has a wonderful imagination.
Audio beautifully performed by John Solo... complete with singing!
March 7, 2013
4.5, definitely more than 4.
OK, it was clear soon that this story confounded expectations. Was I happy with this? Not sure. Could I cope with this, adjust my views as an m/m reader? Yes, YES. No, I don't need everything spelled out in readers' warnings, in fact I'm really grateful there weren't any. I simply love and admire how Marie Sexton regularly turns expectations/stereotypes on their heads and runs somewhere new while always creating totally credible characters. I will say that the main couple didn't initially engage my attentions quite as strongly as Aren/Deacon did but as always I was completely and totally taken in by Marie's strong multi-facetted characters. Olsa was not quite as visible throughout the book as I would have liked but she did her stuff in the end (that was SOME tea!). And though near the end I had been resigned to the fact that this book might be the last Oestend one, the bombshell in the last paragraph hopefully put paid to that.
OK, it was clear soon that this story confounded expectations. Was I happy with this? Not sure. Could I cope with this, adjust my views as an m/m reader? Yes, YES. No, I don't need everything spelled out in readers' warnings, in fact I'm really grateful there weren't any. I simply love and admire how Marie Sexton regularly turns expectations/stereotypes on their heads and runs somewhere new while always creating totally credible characters. I will say that the main couple didn't initially engage my attentions quite as strongly as Aren/Deacon did but as always I was completely and totally taken in by Marie's strong multi-facetted characters. Olsa was not quite as visible throughout the book as I would have liked but she did her stuff in the end (that was SOME tea!). And though near the end I had been resigned to the fact that this book might be the last Oestend one, the bombshell in the last paragraph hopefully put paid to that.
June 30, 2012
4.5 Stars
Back in Oestend where unexplainable, weird things are happening around the majority of its residents. We get Dante's POV as he settles in his new ranch. I thought Dante and Cami's story was absolutely beautiful. I was also thrilled to get Simon's POV and his very believable confused dealings with Frances. Throw in more Deacon and Aren and I was one happy camper.
Back in Oestend where unexplainable, weird things are happening around the majority of its residents. We get Dante's POV as he settles in his new ranch. I thought Dante and Cami's story was absolutely beautiful. I was also thrilled to get Simon's POV and his very believable confused dealings with Frances. Throw in more Deacon and Aren and I was one happy camper.
April 27, 2015
I wanted to rate this 5 stars to balance out some of the bad reviews, because this book didn't deserve them. It is a very good book, but it didn't quite take me to that 5 star place.
Once I have a chance to think about it more, I'll probably update my review to be actual review and not a complaint about other reviews. :)
Once I have a chance to think about it more, I'll probably update my review to be actual review and not a complaint about other reviews. :)
November 17, 2013
This book expands on the paranormal world-building of the first book, including some scenes that are wonderfully eerie and atmospheric. It packs some surprises, and explains some character backstories in a satisfying way. For me, it's not as focused or as intense as the first book. That's probably in part because it follows two different main couples, which dilutes out both relationships a little.
There were things I really liked in here. Particularly that the couples and relationships didn't fit cookie-cutter M/M pairings. The author took risks with expectations to create a unique story. But Deacon remains the most intense and vivid character in Oestend, and his relationship with Aren the most deeply felt for me, so this story was just a little less involving than the first. Still a fascinating read.
There were things I really liked in here. Particularly that the couples and relationships didn't fit cookie-cutter M/M pairings. The author took risks with expectations to create a unique story. But Deacon remains the most intense and vivid character in Oestend, and his relationship with Aren the most deeply felt for me, so this story was just a little less involving than the first. Still a fascinating read.
February 6, 2020
4.35 Stars
Almost as good as the previous one...and it ended really well. I kinda want more stories in this 'verse but without the ...which would mean additional tales would have to focus around a different arc.
I'd still read 'em.
Almost as good as the previous one...and it ended really well. I kinda want more stories in this 'verse but without the ...which would mean additional tales would have to focus around a different arc.
I'd still read 'em.
March 27, 2013
Sequel to Song of Oestend, which I loved, I put off reading this because I was sure I couldn't get over my dislike of Dante, but I was swept away by this story. And my dislike of Dante? Gone! Marie Sexton continues her fantastic saga of wraiths and humans in the world of Oestend's ranches, and she continues to amaze me with her vivid imagination.
Like others, I'm not giving away the principal spoiler here but, suffice it to say, it's well worth the price of admission. Throughout the saga, the wraiths wreak their havoc everywhere except at the Bar Chi Ranch and ultimately Deacon finds himself hip deep in cattle, pigs, women and men from the surrounding ranches as mysterious events on those ranches make them uninhabitable. Frances and Simon work out a sexual arrangement which eventually becomes a romance, of sorts. I'm not sure how I feel about their relationship even now, but it made for an interesting story twist here and there.
The main romance is between Dante and Cami, though it takes quite a while for Dante to come to terms for his unrequited love for Deacon. It also takes quite a while for more than friendship to develop between Dante and Cami and for Cami to reveal her past and her reasons for being in Oestend. That is the crux of the major spoiler which I'm not going to describe here.
All six couples, Deacon and Aren, Simon and Frances, and Dante and Cami come together at the end to resolve the issue surrounding the wraiths. It was a fitting end to this well-written saga. I highly recommend this series to everyone, but especially to anyone who enjoys cowboys, fantasy, and well-written relationship drama. Thank you Marie Sexton. This was a fantastic journey.
Like others, I'm not giving away the principal spoiler here but, suffice it to say, it's well worth the price of admission. Throughout the saga, the wraiths wreak their havoc everywhere except at the Bar Chi Ranch and ultimately Deacon finds himself hip deep in cattle, pigs, women and men from the surrounding ranches as mysterious events on those ranches make them uninhabitable. Frances and Simon work out a sexual arrangement which eventually becomes a romance, of sorts. I'm not sure how I feel about their relationship even now, but it made for an interesting story twist here and there.
The main romance is between Dante and Cami, though it takes quite a while for Dante to come to terms for his unrequited love for Deacon. It also takes quite a while for more than friendship to develop between Dante and Cami and for Cami to reveal her past and her reasons for being in Oestend. That is the crux of the major spoiler which I'm not going to describe here.
All six couples, Deacon and Aren, Simon and Frances, and Dante and Cami come together at the end to resolve the issue surrounding the wraiths. It was a fitting end to this well-written saga. I highly recommend this series to everyone, but especially to anyone who enjoys cowboys, fantasy, and well-written relationship drama. Thank you Marie Sexton. This was a fantastic journey.
June 29, 2012
I have ambivalent feelings about this sequel. On the one hand, I do admire the intricate world building with its interesting combination of elements from different genres. Cami and Dante's story was engaging and their gradual romance beautifully conveys tenderness, caring and mutual acceptance. On the other hand, Frances and Simon's 'arrangement' and their later dubious relationship has left me incredibly sad and disappointed.
I understand relationships are usually complicated and one or both parties may have a lot of emotional issues. Real life does not always lead to romance and conventional happy endings... Yet I strongly believe that Frances deserved better and obviously needed more than someone like Simon could offer: first, he selfishly uses Frances for orgasms despite being aware of the 'boy's' feelings and without even considering a hint of reciprocity during the sexual act; second, Simon's thoughts pretty clearly showed that he will probably never be able to return the love Frances feels for him. What Simon can offer is some sort of 'partnership', which I basically see as friendship with benefits combined with some residual affection from the past with Lena (though I really cannot comprehend that part). There is no romance involved in Simon's case and that left me with a rather bitter taste.
In the end, did I enjoy reading this book? The answer would be it was not my cup of tea, because for me the unpleasant impressions left by Frances and Simon's story outweighed the positive aspects.
I understand relationships are usually complicated and one or both parties may have a lot of emotional issues. Real life does not always lead to romance and conventional happy endings... Yet I strongly believe that Frances deserved better and obviously needed more than someone like Simon could offer: first, he selfishly uses Frances for orgasms despite being aware of the 'boy's' feelings and without even considering a hint of reciprocity during the sexual act; second, Simon's thoughts pretty clearly showed that he will probably never be able to return the love Frances feels for him. What Simon can offer is some sort of 'partnership', which I basically see as friendship with benefits combined with some residual affection from the past with Lena (though I really cannot comprehend that part). There is no romance involved in Simon's case and that left me with a rather bitter taste.
In the end, did I enjoy reading this book? The answer would be it was not my cup of tea, because for me the unpleasant impressions left by Frances and Simon's story outweighed the positive aspects.
October 21, 2020
This was Dante's and Cami's story. But also Simon and Francis.
In Song of Oestend, Dante wasn't very likable. He was bitter and vengeful. At the end of that story, we see why and he becomes a bit more human with that revelation. Still, I didn't really like him. So, starting this book, I was wondering if I would be able to like Dante enough to like the book. I shouldn't have worried; Marie Sexton knows how to tell a story and she certainly drew me in.
Reading some of the reviews, I rather expected Cami to not fit with the story, but I felt that she did rather well. In fact, she was perfect for Dante. And Dante was perfect for her.
I loved the mythology of Oestend quite a lot. It's about the past but also the future. It's about acceptance (of others and ones self) and love.
I am very glad I read this series. I wish there was more, but that is only me not wanting to be done. This book ended quite well and it doesn't really need more story. I just want it.
In Song of Oestend, Dante wasn't very likable. He was bitter and vengeful. At the end of that story, we see why and he becomes a bit more human with that revelation. Still, I didn't really like him. So, starting this book, I was wondering if I would be able to like Dante enough to like the book. I shouldn't have worried; Marie Sexton knows how to tell a story and she certainly drew me in.
Reading some of the reviews, I rather expected Cami to not fit with the story, but I felt that she did rather well. In fact, she was perfect for Dante. And Dante was perfect for her.
I loved the mythology of Oestend quite a lot. It's about the past but also the future. It's about acceptance (of others and ones self) and love.
I am very glad I read this series. I wish there was more, but that is only me not wanting to be done. This book ended quite well and it doesn't really need more story. I just want it.
January 25, 2013
This was well and truly one of the best books I've read (27) this year. I read well into the night wanting to find out what would happen to Oestend and the residents there. I fell head over heels in love with Cami and Dante. The drama of this story played out right before my eyes and I delighted in it. Was not disappointed at all. A wonderful closure for the people of Oestend, or is it?
This was a deep read that took me to some very personal places and hit a few nerve endings that I thought were no longer there. And yet, I stayed anchored to my chair and kept reading.
"Grief is just love with no place to go." My vision blurred and tears needed to fall for this was an epiphany in my world right at that moment. My god.
I am happily sated.
May 19, 2021
I have to say this was the most unexpected book I've ever read. Nothing of what I thought was gonna happen, happened.
It was GREAT!
Loved it so much. So different and unexpected.
I won't give out names of anything that immediately would mess things up for many, but let me just say, how it all happened made sense, I’m happy with the ending and extremely happy by the development of this story.
Just know that now, I love Dante and Frances DEEPLY.
I never thought I would like the whole, folks tales, wraths, no-cellphone era kinda book. But this author is too great to not make any book completely amazing.
I'm happy all the books I've been reading lately have been great, makes me all happy inside.
Reread May 2021
Listened to it on audiobook and it was even better!
It was GREAT!
Loved it so much. So different and unexpected.
I won't give out names of anything that immediately would mess things up for many, but let me just say, how it all happened made sense, I’m happy with the ending and extremely happy by the development of this story.
Just know that now, I love Dante and Frances DEEPLY.
I never thought I would like the whole, folks tales, wraths, no-cellphone era kinda book. But this author is too great to not make any book completely amazing.
I'm happy all the books I've been reading lately have been great, makes me all happy inside.
Reread May 2021
Listened to it on audiobook and it was even better!
August 5, 2022
Entretenido porque pasan muchas cosas y eso de estar ambientado en el Wild West me resultó muy de agradecer porque llevaba demasiado con lecturas contemporáneas.
No peca de tanto sexo como el anterior pero banaliza las relaciones MM en esa época, lo perdonamos porque al final es un libro con tintes fantásticos, pero no trata con la debida importancia el tema trans y eso me parece mal.
Resultón si se ha leído el anterior antes, si no se ha leído la historia resulta ininteligible
No peca de tanto sexo como el anterior pero banaliza las relaciones MM en esa época, lo perdonamos porque al final es un libro con tintes fantásticos, pero no trata con la debida importancia el tema trans y eso me parece mal.
Resultón si se ha leído el anterior antes, si no se ha leído la historia resulta ininteligible
July 12, 2012
4.5 stars
This book was great in so many ways. The characters, the history, the world built by Marie Sexton was so unique and amazing.
My feeling is that Marie Sexton has such respect and love for her characters that one can't help but feel the same. Cami's struggle to be accepted for herself and Dante and Olsa providing the type of environment that she could be herself was touching. Cami's love and acceptance of Dante with all his emotional baggage was great.
The fact that Dante fought so hard for Cami to be seen and accepted for who she was, was beyond cool.... Dante is one fierce mother f__ker; and exactly the kind of protection that Cami and all the other ladies need in their life.
I really wanted Simon to fall for Frances, but was able to accept that Simon's love for Frances wasn't going to be what Frances (and I) wanted. It wasn't less, but it was different. That they were "partners" seemed to be enough for them, although I would have wanted more for them; especially Frances.
My one little niggle was the scene on the mesa. The final part of the ritual seemed unnecessary to me. The healing and forgiveness part I was all aboard with, but I think I would have enjoyed it a bit more without the sex. I get the whole sex is powerful bit, but for me it was like the person that leaves the house with that one extra bit of whatever that ruins the outfit.
Marie Sexton remains one of my favorite authors and continues to show how truly talented she is in creating such wonderful characters.
This book was great in so many ways. The characters, the history, the world built by Marie Sexton was so unique and amazing.
My feeling is that Marie Sexton has such respect and love for her characters that one can't help but feel the same. Cami's struggle to be accepted for herself and Dante and Olsa providing the type of environment that she could be herself was touching. Cami's love and acceptance of Dante with all his emotional baggage was great.
The fact that Dante fought so hard for Cami to be seen and accepted for who she was, was beyond cool.... Dante is one fierce mother f__ker; and exactly the kind of protection that Cami and all the other ladies need in their life.
I really wanted Simon to fall for Frances, but was able to accept that Simon's love for Frances wasn't going to be what Frances (and I) wanted. It wasn't less, but it was different. That they were "partners" seemed to be enough for them, although I would have wanted more for them; especially Frances.
My one little niggle was the scene on the mesa. The final part of the ritual seemed unnecessary to me. The healing and forgiveness part I was all aboard with, but I think I would have enjoyed it a bit more without the sex. I get the whole sex is powerful bit, but for me it was like the person that leaves the house with that one extra bit of whatever that ruins the outfit.
Marie Sexton remains one of my favorite authors and continues to show how truly talented she is in creating such wonderful characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2025
I was elated when I finished book one in the 'Oestend' series by Marie Sexton because I knew there was a book two and I could barely contain my excitement until I got to read it. I loved the first book so much and I realized it would be practically impossible for me not to enjoy this second book. Even though this story revolves around a character that I didn't care for so much in book one, I had a feeling that this time I would understand and care for Dante. I already adored Simon and Frances so it only meant that I needed to learn to relate to Dante.
Dante is in sad shape after being evicted from his home, the BarChi ranch, by the man he loves at the end of the first book. He, Simon, and Frances have gone to make a home at the old Austin Ranch which now belongs to Dante. The ranch is a sad place still reeking of all the death that happened there. Cami is introduced as a woman from town brought to do the housework and clean and she's got a passel of secrets of her own. Simon and Frances' friendship has grown stronger to the point where they can share their innermost secrets with each other. It was sweet and sad when Simon shared about his long ago wife and how she died, opening himself up in a very vulnerable manner which led to Frances telling him he loved him, knowing full well that Simon will never love him the same way.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
Dante is in sad shape after being evicted from his home, the BarChi ranch, by the man he loves at the end of the first book. He, Simon, and Frances have gone to make a home at the old Austin Ranch which now belongs to Dante. The ranch is a sad place still reeking of all the death that happened there. Cami is introduced as a woman from town brought to do the housework and clean and she's got a passel of secrets of her own. Simon and Frances' friendship has grown stronger to the point where they can share their innermost secrets with each other. It was sweet and sad when Simon shared about his long ago wife and how she died, opening himself up in a very vulnerable manner which led to Frances telling him he loved him, knowing full well that Simon will never love him the same way.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
September 8, 2012
3.5 stars
I loved the first book in this series, but I was a bit unprepared (I don't always read reviews before I read a book from a trusted author) for the way the storyline developed in this novel. That said, while I probably would have preferred a traditional M/M romance, my admiration for Marie Sexton's writing remains unchanged, as the difficult issue of gender was handled very well.
I loved the first book in this series, but I was a bit unprepared (I don't always read reviews before I read a book from a trusted author) for the way the storyline developed in this novel. That said, while I probably would have preferred a traditional M/M romance, my admiration for Marie Sexton's writing remains unchanged, as the difficult issue of gender was handled very well.
October 21, 2017
pensavo che il primo libro fosse esaustivo e concluso e mi sono stupita del seguito ma dopo appena un capitolo mi sono decisamente ricreduta.
storia intrigante,avventurosa,originale e romantica,protagonisti indimenticabili.
Dante è una rivelazione,Cami ancor di più
storia intrigante,avventurosa,originale e romantica,protagonisti indimenticabili.
Dante è una rivelazione,Cami ancor di più
August 24, 2014
I like this one better than the first one, though I did miss Olsa.
April 24, 2024
It’s a 4 1/2 out of 5 ⭐️’s for me. Loved the characters! Would love to see another book to see where it is taken. It resolved many of the issues in a satisfying way. Brought up new things that will happen in the future. Didn’t resolve them. Overall a pretty good book. 💜
August 2, 2012
I RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS FREE REVIEWING COPY. ALSO BEWARE SPOILERS ARE PRETTY MASSIVE, NOT JUST MINOR ONES. Hmmm, what else? Oh yes, it is rantish at times and that would be it with the disclaimers.
I am the reader who loves and welcomes the spoilers, I however have not read any reviews till a day before I started, because somebody mentioned to me that there is a transgendred protagonist in the story and of course I wanted to know more. Anyway, I went into the story knowing who Cami was and I enjoyed every layer, every detail of her characterization. Of course being as straight woman as they come, I would not and could not say how authentic such characterization was, but to me it was convincing, convincing and very beatiful. I actually have not had a problem with Dante's characterization either. Of course I had to suspend disbelief as to how little time it took for him to start the process of self examination and change, and of course falling in love helped him become a better man, but this is romance and this is what often happens in romances, I bought it as romantic trope. Even at the end of Song of Oestend (which overall I enjoyed much better than this book) I could imagine that Dante could be redeemed, honestly. Yes, he did bad things and in real life I would have not looked at him twice after what he did, but as long as his actions were guided by misguided jealousy and love. It is a golden possibility for romance writer and Marie Sexton certainly took advantage of it IMO. I also thought that their sex scenes were incredibly hot.
Unfortunately here I have to end what I loved about the book and start ranting, so take it for what it is worth. We now come to Simon and Frances and I have to say that this book certainly managed something unique, something that I have not read in a single mm romantic story (or mm mystery, fantasy, historical, any subjenre) and not in a good way. Here we have one of the two main couples in the romance, where one guy cannot give another guy romantic love because, are you ready? He is not gay. No, he does not become gay for Frances either (shudders). I could not believe what I was reading. Do not get me wrong, if this was a literary fiction, I would have totally had a different genre expectation and would not blink an eye at two friends staying together where one friend is in love with another, but that other just cannot be. But we are in romance land and Simon is not gay. Simon is not gay, Simon does not even look like he is bisexual, because he imagines woman when he is getting off with Frances all the time till he realizes how very selfish he was and even when he realizes how selfish he was, he is just pleased to give Frances what he needs but realizes he cannot give him much. They are friends who have arrangement, they are partners, team, whatever. My goodness, my heart ached for Frances, who would never have a chance to have somebody who can love him completely. When Simon used Frances to get off, this storyline infuriated me, at the end I was depressed.
I even get the Orgy at the end, although I thought it was overkill and singing the songs and bending their mind would be enough for healing and forgiveness, but I get an intent behind the Orgy.
Three stars for Dante and Cami, one star barely for Simon and Frances, very depressing.
I am the reader who loves and welcomes the spoilers, I however have not read any reviews till a day before I started, because somebody mentioned to me that there is a transgendred protagonist in the story and of course I wanted to know more. Anyway, I went into the story knowing who Cami was and I enjoyed every layer, every detail of her characterization. Of course being as straight woman as they come, I would not and could not say how authentic such characterization was, but to me it was convincing, convincing and very beatiful. I actually have not had a problem with Dante's characterization either. Of course I had to suspend disbelief as to how little time it took for him to start the process of self examination and change, and of course falling in love helped him become a better man, but this is romance and this is what often happens in romances, I bought it as romantic trope. Even at the end of Song of Oestend (which overall I enjoyed much better than this book) I could imagine that Dante could be redeemed, honestly. Yes, he did bad things and in real life I would have not looked at him twice after what he did, but as long as his actions were guided by misguided jealousy and love. It is a golden possibility for romance writer and Marie Sexton certainly took advantage of it IMO. I also thought that their sex scenes were incredibly hot.
Unfortunately here I have to end what I loved about the book and start ranting, so take it for what it is worth. We now come to Simon and Frances and I have to say that this book certainly managed something unique, something that I have not read in a single mm romantic story (or mm mystery, fantasy, historical, any subjenre) and not in a good way. Here we have one of the two main couples in the romance, where one guy cannot give another guy romantic love because, are you ready? He is not gay. No, he does not become gay for Frances either (shudders). I could not believe what I was reading. Do not get me wrong, if this was a literary fiction, I would have totally had a different genre expectation and would not blink an eye at two friends staying together where one friend is in love with another, but that other just cannot be. But we are in romance land and Simon is not gay. Simon is not gay, Simon does not even look like he is bisexual, because he imagines woman when he is getting off with Frances all the time till he realizes how very selfish he was and even when he realizes how selfish he was, he is just pleased to give Frances what he needs but realizes he cannot give him much. They are friends who have arrangement, they are partners, team, whatever. My goodness, my heart ached for Frances, who would never have a chance to have somebody who can love him completely. When Simon used Frances to get off, this storyline infuriated me, at the end I was depressed.
I even get the Orgy at the end, although I thought it was overkill and singing the songs and bending their mind would be enough for healing and forgiveness, but I get an intent behind the Orgy.
Three stars for Dante and Cami, one star barely for Simon and Frances, very depressing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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