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Persis Chronicles #1
Emerald Fire
The harsh desert world of Persis has developed its own customs far from Old Earth. Keepers are cherished as caregivers and helpmeets to Hunters. During Emerald Keeper Teeka's first Contract with Senior Hunter Brant, disaster strikes. Brant is killed and Teeka is stranded, surrounded by strangers, and unsure of who to trust. A dark and moody Hunter steps forward with an offer of partnership and protection. Teeka wonders what motivates the scarred and solitary Senior Hunter Quill. Both have hidden motives for agreeing, and both are suspicious of each other. But the Great Valley will force them to work together and build a trust born out of necessity and survival. Between the dangers of the harsh desert and the malice of a hidden enemy, Teeka and Quill must learn to believe in each other to find the truth.
262 pages, ebook
First published May 30, 2012
5 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
About the author
A. Catherine Noon
22 books56 followersMy official bio came to me when mulling over my two main passions: words and yarn. It hit me that they’re metaphorically the same thing: “For author and textile artist A. Catherine Noon, it’s all about the yarn, both metaphorical and literal – spinning a yarn, knitting with yarn, weaving, sewing, painting, sharing stories and good times over a cup of coffee with dark chocolate.”
I’m a born storyteller. I love to talk and I love to write. I sometimes feel, in my heart of hearts, that the internet was developed by and for people like me – natural networkers who love to talk with anybody about anything. After Y2K, the world belongs to the geeks. Teaching is a natural extension of that instinct. I find I’m just as passionate about helping other people get onto the page as I am about my own writing.
I’ve written all sorts of things: fantasy, science fiction, autobiography, cooking, spirituality, and a host of other topics. I recently rediscovered a love of poetry, because it uses words to express the inexpressible. Essays, too, have fascinated me for a long time, though I didn’t know what name to call the style of writing I liked – it certainly wasn’t the dry-as-bones “essays” from high school days. Phillip Lopate did a lot of good for the field of letters in general, and me in particular, when he published his ode to the essay, The Art of the Personal Essay. Turns out, I’m a fan of Montaigne. Now that I’m an author and have to promote myself, I get to write essays for my different blogs. I even have a basket of topics on which I feel confident to write.
Finding one’s voice can be a lifelong pursuit. I know it has been for me. Being able to own that voice, and speak in that voice, takes practice and gentleness. A word at a time, we learn to get, and stay, on the page. The same goes for knitting. It’s a very Zen process of accumulating stitches and those stitches turn into a garment, or art object, or soft furnishing, or a toy, or anything the knitter can conceive.
I’m a born storyteller. I love to talk and I love to write. I sometimes feel, in my heart of hearts, that the internet was developed by and for people like me – natural networkers who love to talk with anybody about anything. After Y2K, the world belongs to the geeks. Teaching is a natural extension of that instinct. I find I’m just as passionate about helping other people get onto the page as I am about my own writing.
I’ve written all sorts of things: fantasy, science fiction, autobiography, cooking, spirituality, and a host of other topics. I recently rediscovered a love of poetry, because it uses words to express the inexpressible. Essays, too, have fascinated me for a long time, though I didn’t know what name to call the style of writing I liked – it certainly wasn’t the dry-as-bones “essays” from high school days. Phillip Lopate did a lot of good for the field of letters in general, and me in particular, when he published his ode to the essay, The Art of the Personal Essay. Turns out, I’m a fan of Montaigne. Now that I’m an author and have to promote myself, I get to write essays for my different blogs. I even have a basket of topics on which I feel confident to write.
Finding one’s voice can be a lifelong pursuit. I know it has been for me. Being able to own that voice, and speak in that voice, takes practice and gentleness. A word at a time, we learn to get, and stay, on the page. The same goes for knitting. It’s a very Zen process of accumulating stitches and those stitches turn into a garment, or art object, or soft furnishing, or a toy, or anything the knitter can conceive.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 4, 2012
Wonderful m/m fantasy set in an evocative desert world. This story is about Teeka, a Keeper on his first Contract with a Hunter (Brant) who is savagely killed. To claim their stake of valuable gems Teeka has to return to the desert with Quill, a mysterious and dangerous Hunter who may know something about the murder.
The world of Persis has its origins firmly in the Bedouin culture of the Saharan Desert. The author takes us on a journey from the teeming and colourful tent city of Kotek to the harsh desert gemfields and has created an alien lexicon and culture that suits the setting. The role of a Keeper is a combination of helper, companion and lover depending on the terms of the contract. Teeka is somewhat of a young peacock with big dreams of one day becoming a Hunter himself. Quill is very typical of the Hunters, a strong and solitary man, whose passion for Teeka burns strong. This is a slow paced romance. There is no angst, with the only conflict coming from outside influences. As other reviewers have noted it does feel like it finished too early. Recommended for m/m fantasy fans.
The world of Persis has its origins firmly in the Bedouin culture of the Saharan Desert. The author takes us on a journey from the teeming and colourful tent city of Kotek to the harsh desert gemfields and has created an alien lexicon and culture that suits the setting. The role of a Keeper is a combination of helper, companion and lover depending on the terms of the contract. Teeka is somewhat of a young peacock with big dreams of one day becoming a Hunter himself. Quill is very typical of the Hunters, a strong and solitary man, whose passion for Teeka burns strong. This is a slow paced romance. There is no angst, with the only conflict coming from outside influences. As other reviewers have noted it does feel like it finished too early. Recommended for m/m fantasy fans.
June 3, 2012
I have to say it clearly, this story was TOO SHORT. I really would wish it was longer. Or maybe a sequel? That would be awesome for sure. The main storyline was well developed, party mysterious and romantic too.
I loved how the main tasks of Keepers and Hunters were described and shown. As I reader I could picture it all and I loved it. For both authors, really amazing written story. Great work! Even if I have to admit that the way it ended, it felt rushed.I really recommend this story to all m/m lovers. This was well developed and written story, even if the end didn't feel satisfying.
I loved how the main tasks of Keepers and Hunters were described and shown. As I reader I could picture it all and I loved it. For both authors, really amazing written story. Great work! Even if I have to admit that the way it ended, it felt rushed.I really recommend this story to all m/m lovers. This was well developed and written story, even if the end didn't feel satisfying.
February 10, 2020
Humanity has taken to the skies and colonised planets galore; the planet Persis is just one of these planets – a harsh desert world whose wealth lies beneath the beautiful but treacherous sand. The citizens live under complex sociological mores and norms – which draws heavily from our earthly middle eastern and eastern traditions. Great attention is paid to each individual’s job/role, title, position, wealth, family background, artisan skills & training – as these could make or break a person’s advancement and standing.
The hunters are the brave adventurers risking life and limb in harvesting all manner of mineral wealth from under the sands etc. Keepers are contracted to provide administrative and domestic assistance to the Hunters … contracts can be for any duration and are negotiated and approved by Persis’ Guild-craft heads, town/city leaders or even clan-heads. Some of these ‘contracts’ may lead onto services of a more ‘personal nature’ but that entirely depends on the two parties of the contract. Teeka’s exciting first contract with the much older Senior Hunter called Brant ends rather abruptly in the first chapter … although some back history is provided for their contracted time together in subsequent chapters through Teeka’s memory flashbacks. Technically, Brant’s death dissolves the contract and Teeka would be compelled to return to his safe and rather humdrum life back in his city as a skilled artisan. Desperate to remain out ‘in the field’ and wanting to experience the excitement of hunting (read here mining for mineral wealth) – he agrees to a temporary arrangement with Brant’s heir – Quill, another Senior Hunter with disturbing facial scars and a brooding demeanour. Several other good looking Hunters come sniffing around Teeka – especially when rumour abounds that Brant and Teeka have struck the ‘motherlode’ of mineral veins just before Brant’s untime demise. Just who should Teeka trust is one of the main threads of this plot, especially when foul-play is discovered regarding Brant’s death.
Aside from the whodunit elements, the slow dance of attraction between Teeka and Quill is believably drawn out and well done by the authors. I liked where the plot took these two eventually and whilst I did somewhat mind Teeka having to play the ‘subservient’ female role in the relationship, I did accept all the ‘domesticity’ given the planet’s accepted and delineated cultural norms/roles. There was a significant lack of female characters however – and even though sisters and mothers are mentioned, it would appear that the outback ‘mining towns’ such as Kotek City (where the book’s action takes place) is largely populated by males, some of whom take on accepted partnerships (business as well as sexual) – as long as these as formed within prescribed societal rituals and norms.
What did add significantly to my reading pleasure was the cute furry pets gambolling about – and boy do the authors make much mileage from the adorably cute ‘truffles’ whose native zoological physiology provide assistance with the mining tasks. Too cute by half!
After tantalising me with who might be behind the initial murder (of Brant), when the denouement came in the final chapters, I did feel that the ‘reveal’ was too rushed – this despite my having guessed the identity of the baddie midway through the book. There is some violence as our MCs struggle to overcome their enemy but a little more ‘threat’ and ‘fear’ before the final showdown could have enhanced my reading ‘excitement’/enjoyment overall. That said, this book provided an excellent escape to an alien world to which I would gladly return should there be a sequel. I gladly recommend this sci-fi romance title.
The hunters are the brave adventurers risking life and limb in harvesting all manner of mineral wealth from under the sands etc. Keepers are contracted to provide administrative and domestic assistance to the Hunters … contracts can be for any duration and are negotiated and approved by Persis’ Guild-craft heads, town/city leaders or even clan-heads. Some of these ‘contracts’ may lead onto services of a more ‘personal nature’ but that entirely depends on the two parties of the contract. Teeka’s exciting first contract with the much older Senior Hunter called Brant ends rather abruptly in the first chapter … although some back history is provided for their contracted time together in subsequent chapters through Teeka’s memory flashbacks. Technically, Brant’s death dissolves the contract and Teeka would be compelled to return to his safe and rather humdrum life back in his city as a skilled artisan. Desperate to remain out ‘in the field’ and wanting to experience the excitement of hunting (read here mining for mineral wealth) – he agrees to a temporary arrangement with Brant’s heir – Quill, another Senior Hunter with disturbing facial scars and a brooding demeanour. Several other good looking Hunters come sniffing around Teeka – especially when rumour abounds that Brant and Teeka have struck the ‘motherlode’ of mineral veins just before Brant’s untime demise. Just who should Teeka trust is one of the main threads of this plot, especially when foul-play is discovered regarding Brant’s death.
Aside from the whodunit elements, the slow dance of attraction between Teeka and Quill is believably drawn out and well done by the authors. I liked where the plot took these two eventually and whilst I did somewhat mind Teeka having to play the ‘subservient’ female role in the relationship, I did accept all the ‘domesticity’ given the planet’s accepted and delineated cultural norms/roles. There was a significant lack of female characters however – and even though sisters and mothers are mentioned, it would appear that the outback ‘mining towns’ such as Kotek City (where the book’s action takes place) is largely populated by males, some of whom take on accepted partnerships (business as well as sexual) – as long as these as formed within prescribed societal rituals and norms.
What did add significantly to my reading pleasure was the cute furry pets gambolling about – and boy do the authors make much mileage from the adorably cute ‘truffles’ whose native zoological physiology provide assistance with the mining tasks. Too cute by half!
After tantalising me with who might be behind the initial murder (of Brant), when the denouement came in the final chapters, I did feel that the ‘reveal’ was too rushed – this despite my having guessed the identity of the baddie midway through the book. There is some violence as our MCs struggle to overcome their enemy but a little more ‘threat’ and ‘fear’ before the final showdown could have enhanced my reading ‘excitement’/enjoyment overall. That said, this book provided an excellent escape to an alien world to which I would gladly return should there be a sequel. I gladly recommend this sci-fi romance title.
December 17, 2012
After Hunter Brant is killed by a sandboar, Keeper Teeka finds himself alone in the deserts of Persis, stranded and unsure whom to trust. He reluctantly teams up with the enigmatic Quill, a Hunter who seems equally capable of infuriating and intriguing Teeka at the same time. When they find themselves threatened by an unseen enemy, they must learn to trust each other.
I very much enjoyed this book by A. Catherine Noon and Rachel Wilder. Emerald Fire is a well-written fantasy that draws you into the fascinating desert world of Persis by using rich, lyrical descriptions of setting and character. Teeka and Quill are captivating, motivated and believable, and their relationship develops at a realistic pace. The unfolding mystery of how Brant really died and the underlying dangers of the elements provided lots of conflict and kept me guessing to the very end. A great choice for fans of absorbing and well-drawn fantasy fiction.
I very much enjoyed this book by A. Catherine Noon and Rachel Wilder. Emerald Fire is a well-written fantasy that draws you into the fascinating desert world of Persis by using rich, lyrical descriptions of setting and character. Teeka and Quill are captivating, motivated and believable, and their relationship develops at a realistic pace. The unfolding mystery of how Brant really died and the underlying dangers of the elements provided lots of conflict and kept me guessing to the very end. A great choice for fans of absorbing and well-drawn fantasy fiction.
December 13, 2012
Great story!
I haven't read many m/m stories, but this one was fantastic. The world building is unique and familiar at the same time. Emerald Fire has the feel of prospector life during the California Gold Rush of 1849 in California yet it is set in a harsh and dangerous desert. The wicked winds and deadly animals can kill a man if he isn't careful. And these prospectors, or Hunters, are liable to work themselves to death unless a Keeper takes care of them. It may be a contract, but it is also a symbiotic and loving relationship--especially where Teeka and Quill are concerned.
This book has a bit of magic, mystery and intrigue. The characters are wonderful. I loved that Teeka is respected for his cooking and weaving skills. I liked that Quill is strong, wounded, quiet, and fully capable of taking care of business.
I'm looking forward to more books from this talented team.
I haven't read many m/m stories, but this one was fantastic. The world building is unique and familiar at the same time. Emerald Fire has the feel of prospector life during the California Gold Rush of 1849 in California yet it is set in a harsh and dangerous desert. The wicked winds and deadly animals can kill a man if he isn't careful. And these prospectors, or Hunters, are liable to work themselves to death unless a Keeper takes care of them. It may be a contract, but it is also a symbiotic and loving relationship--especially where Teeka and Quill are concerned.
This book has a bit of magic, mystery and intrigue. The characters are wonderful. I loved that Teeka is respected for his cooking and weaving skills. I liked that Quill is strong, wounded, quiet, and fully capable of taking care of business.
I'm looking forward to more books from this talented team.
July 3, 2012
The first thing I have to say about this book is that the world building is fantastic. It’s so descriptive and imaginative that I had no problems getting into or picturing it. I did have some problems figuring out the roles in society. I don’t think I ever fully understood how Keepers and Hunters would fit into their world. I eventually had to stop trying to figure it out and just go with it.
I really enjoyed Teeka and Quill. Teeka was sweet, nurturing and lovable. Quill was solitary, quiet and mysterious. Their relationship was developing in the aftermath of a murder so they were suspicious of each other and everyone around them. They were also on edge due to the danger of their situation. It was fun to watch them slowly open up and get to know one another. The relationship felt genuine and had a natural progression which was refreshing to see.
The entire time I was reading this book I loved it and didn’t want to put it down. I loved the world, I was trying to figure out who killed Brant and why, and I was worried that the killer would try to harm Quill and Teeka. All the makings of a great mystery were there and kept me engaged. The budding romance between Quill and Teeka was an added bonus. I was hooked and loving it right up until the end. All the loose ends were tied up, Teeka and Quill got their HEA, but I still felt like something was missing and it wasn’t complete. They were just about to embark on a huge transition and I wanted to keep following them to see what would happen next. Even though I was left a bit unfulfilled, I found Emerald Fire quite enjoyable and would gladly jump back into that world for more.
I really enjoyed Teeka and Quill. Teeka was sweet, nurturing and lovable. Quill was solitary, quiet and mysterious. Their relationship was developing in the aftermath of a murder so they were suspicious of each other and everyone around them. They were also on edge due to the danger of their situation. It was fun to watch them slowly open up and get to know one another. The relationship felt genuine and had a natural progression which was refreshing to see.
The entire time I was reading this book I loved it and didn’t want to put it down. I loved the world, I was trying to figure out who killed Brant and why, and I was worried that the killer would try to harm Quill and Teeka. All the makings of a great mystery were there and kept me engaged. The budding romance between Quill and Teeka was an added bonus. I was hooked and loving it right up until the end. All the loose ends were tied up, Teeka and Quill got their HEA, but I still felt like something was missing and it wasn’t complete. They were just about to embark on a huge transition and I wanted to keep following them to see what would happen next. Even though I was left a bit unfulfilled, I found Emerald Fire quite enjoyable and would gladly jump back into that world for more.
December 2, 2012
With its two suns, its deadly winds and the mysterious stones that can supply its inhabitants with many of their needs, the desert world of Persis is a fascinating place. Inhabited by the descendents of the original settlers, who’d traveled here from Old Earth, the culture of Persis is both familiar and breathtakingly new.
Emerald Firs is the story of Teeka, a Keeper from the prestigious Emerald Keep, who has just lost his first Contract. Brant, the Hunter with whom Teeka was involved, was killed by a sandboar before he could register his and Teeka’s Claim on the very lucrative Stake that Teeka had discovered.
Will Teeka be allowed to stay on in Kotek City now that he is Out of Contract? Or will his dreams of someday becoming a Hunter someday himself, die along with Brant? And what of Quill, Brant’s heir? What secret is the mysterious Hunter hiding?
I loved everything about this book. The world-building is as masterful as one of Teeka’s weavings—detailed and intricate, yet never overdone. The characters are charming, endearing and oh-so-real. The tension and suspense kept me turning pages late into the night. I’m thrilled that this is only the first of many books planned for this series.
Emerald Firs is the story of Teeka, a Keeper from the prestigious Emerald Keep, who has just lost his first Contract. Brant, the Hunter with whom Teeka was involved, was killed by a sandboar before he could register his and Teeka’s Claim on the very lucrative Stake that Teeka had discovered.
Will Teeka be allowed to stay on in Kotek City now that he is Out of Contract? Or will his dreams of someday becoming a Hunter someday himself, die along with Brant? And what of Quill, Brant’s heir? What secret is the mysterious Hunter hiding?
I loved everything about this book. The world-building is as masterful as one of Teeka’s weavings—detailed and intricate, yet never overdone. The characters are charming, endearing and oh-so-real. The tension and suspense kept me turning pages late into the night. I’m thrilled that this is only the first of many books planned for this series.
December 17, 2012
This was the first book I read by Catherine Noon and Rachel Wilder and it won't be my last from this talented team. It was also the first time I read a book with these fantasy elements, and my first M/M story and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Emerald Fire captures the essence of the time period (1840's Gold Rush) in California and the reader is transplanted into the dangerous wold, filled with harsh weather, villains and dangerous animals.
The world building was written in a realistic manner, and the authors' description of the setting and characters drew me into the story from the beginning until the end. I was able to picture the scenes unfolding and feel the genuine emotions of each of the characters. Teeka and Quill's differences complimented each other and their relationship was well developed at a good pace.
The book has mystery, intrigue, fantasy, love, an extremely well written new world.
It's refreshing to be introduced to and read a unique plot with different twists that will keep you captivated until the very end.
Emerald Fire captures the essence of the time period (1840's Gold Rush) in California and the reader is transplanted into the dangerous wold, filled with harsh weather, villains and dangerous animals.
The world building was written in a realistic manner, and the authors' description of the setting and characters drew me into the story from the beginning until the end. I was able to picture the scenes unfolding and feel the genuine emotions of each of the characters. Teeka and Quill's differences complimented each other and their relationship was well developed at a good pace.
The book has mystery, intrigue, fantasy, love, an extremely well written new world.
It's refreshing to be introduced to and read a unique plot with different twists that will keep you captivated until the very end.
September 5, 2013
This started out very well and I would love to know more about how this culture came to be. This book takes place over the course of two weeks, a majority of it is spent in a tent. I hope there is a sequel with more going on.
May 7, 2024
2.5 stars. Enjoyed the premise of the book. However, I feel like the who done it portion of the story was lacking and needed to be fleshed out more. In the middle, there's quite a lull just before it wraps up rather quickly.
April 22, 2018
Nice, but it did take a bit to get into the story.
February 6, 2015
I feel terrible for not having read this sooner, but I am so very glad I finally did sit down and read Emerald Fire.
From the very beginning, Ms Noon and Ms. Wilder immersed me in their world of Persis, with its customs that are familiar and yet refreshingly new. The society is complex and rich, and the authors possess a rare talent for letting the reader feel at home without resorting to tedious exposition. Instead, Teeka acquaints us with his world so naturally that it seems perfectly real.
That brings me to the characters of this extraordinary novel. Teeka is utterly charming and delightful, young and full of excitement as he embarks on his first Contract only to have it end far too soon, in tragedy. He is strong and resilient, however, and he does not run home. He stays and does his best to set things in order first, and in so doing, meets Quill, a scarred and solitary Senior Hunter with secrets and a tragic history of his own.
The plot is well drawn, and kept me fully engaged and eager to see what happened next. The romance is both tender and delightfully fresh. Each new plot twist was simply perfect, and I found myself wanting more at the end, not ready to let go of this fine story.
Oh, and if anyone comes across a truffle or two needing a home, I'll volunteer.
I will definitely look for more books from Ms. Noon and Ms Wilder, and I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to do the same.
From the very beginning, Ms Noon and Ms. Wilder immersed me in their world of Persis, with its customs that are familiar and yet refreshingly new. The society is complex and rich, and the authors possess a rare talent for letting the reader feel at home without resorting to tedious exposition. Instead, Teeka acquaints us with his world so naturally that it seems perfectly real.
That brings me to the characters of this extraordinary novel. Teeka is utterly charming and delightful, young and full of excitement as he embarks on his first Contract only to have it end far too soon, in tragedy. He is strong and resilient, however, and he does not run home. He stays and does his best to set things in order first, and in so doing, meets Quill, a scarred and solitary Senior Hunter with secrets and a tragic history of his own.
The plot is well drawn, and kept me fully engaged and eager to see what happened next. The romance is both tender and delightfully fresh. Each new plot twist was simply perfect, and I found myself wanting more at the end, not ready to let go of this fine story.
Oh, and if anyone comes across a truffle or two needing a home, I'll volunteer.
I will definitely look for more books from Ms. Noon and Ms Wilder, and I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to do the same.
Read
September 15, 2013Its a good book with albeit flawed yet solid world building.
My biggest pet peeve with the world the author built was the fact that although the place is supposed to be some sort of colonized planet,but and the people that have amazing technology(like shielded tents O2->H20 units), the place seemed to lack pretty standard technology like gps and satelite image maps.
For example, Teeka asks Quill how far the sand dunes extend, and is given the answer 'no one knows and no one has ever come back' its very sailing off to the new world in the 1400s esque. All great except for the fact that Teeka seemed to be using terrain maps to find their sorts of rapidly oxedizing ores. And um, COLONIZED PLANET?
Overall intersting book but I find it a bit hard to rate. Its worth a read just don't let the sci-fiy details get to you.
My biggest pet peeve with the world the author built was the fact that although the place is supposed to be some sort of colonized planet,but and the people that have amazing technology(like shielded tents O2->H20 units), the place seemed to lack pretty standard technology like gps and satelite image maps.
For example, Teeka asks Quill how far the sand dunes extend, and is given the answer 'no one knows and no one has ever come back' its very sailing off to the new world in the 1400s esque. All great except for the fact that Teeka seemed to be using terrain maps to find their sorts of rapidly oxedizing ores. And um, COLONIZED PLANET?
Overall intersting book but I find it a bit hard to rate. Its worth a read just don't let the sci-fiy details get to you.
March 19, 2017
I forgot how much I enjoyed this book until re-reading it. Set at some point in the future on a desert world, this story revolves around Teeka, a Keeper, and Quill, a hunter as they navigate both working together and a budding relationship. There were secrets, murder and love all wrapped up in this sci-fi-ish tale and I loved it. I found myself interested in both the world as well as the characters and I wanted more! That's really my only complaint about it; I finished it too quickly. While not a short book, I just really wanted to keep going in this world; I'd buy a sequel in a heartbeat.
October 12, 2013
Really good book with a fascinating world, interesting story and funny characters.
I would have given it 4 stars were it not for the ending. It was just too abrupt and many things were left unclear, so it diminished my enjoyment of the book since I was waiting for some explanations for a couple of things. It was annoying that many things were just left hanging.
But I still can say it was a very good book and worth reading.
3,5 stars.
I would have given it 4 stars were it not for the ending. It was just too abrupt and many things were left unclear, so it diminished my enjoyment of the book since I was waiting for some explanations for a couple of things. It was annoying that many things were just left hanging.
But I still can say it was a very good book and worth reading.
3,5 stars.
September 6, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. I thought the characters interesting. I loved that there were definite flaws in the characters. The world that is created is detailed and at times hard to follow but fascinating. The "mystery" bad guys was a bit too obvious but still a fun and enjoyable read.
June 1, 2012
Cool book. Story plot is full and reading goes fast. At the end I could not believe its over. How sad, maybe we will get more?
October 19, 2025
I really enjoyed this. Teeka was strong and I like the world building.
Reread: Just as enjoyable the 2nd time around!
Reread: Just as enjoyable the 2nd time around!
July 31, 2012
3.5 stars
June 16, 2012
Rating: 4.5
Review coming 6/25 at Joyfully Jay and my website. A really wonderful book!
October 5, 2019
3.5ish. Really liked the main character. Would have been a four but the ending felt very rushed. One of those books where the author hit their word limit and had to wrap it up fast.
October 30, 2013
3.5 stars
April 4, 2015
** 4.5 Stars **
What a fantastic and very imaginative world building! It felt so tangible and real. I'm very excited to see that there's going to be a sequel!
June 12, 2015
4.5 stars
March 14, 2013
Nice worldbuilding, ended a little abruptly. Would definitely read a sequel.
lurking-in-kindleland
December 13, 2014Torquere 12 days of Christmas freebie 13.12.14
April 2, 2017
There are parts of this book that are good. I loved the Truffles. I liked the m/c's. The setting was described well. The setup not so much (maybe the first 5 to 10 %). I found the beginning confusing; enough so that I went back and reread trying to make sure I hadn't missed anything or understood. This made it hard to get into at first. Once it got rolling, it was much better.
I was engrossed from the point Quill & the Keeper arrived at the city in the Hunters quarter. Things started making more sense & came better into focus. This section of the book, good 65 to 75.%, held my interest well. It was full of intrigue, relationship building, and character growth.
I liked both m/c's immensely, but I could see how the Keeper might bother some. Much of his role and traits could have easily been filled by a woman in a typical m/f story. Think mail order bride in Westerns or arranged marriages etc... But I did not find issue with it at all myself. That was his purpose and he stayed true to his characters role. My issue with what some call "chicks with dicks (CWD)" are only when it"s not true to the character 's role / set up like warriors and such. Quinn, as the hunter, stayed true to his role. He did not ever venture into CWD's territory.
The next section when they were "staking their claim" seemed a little long, drawn out, and repetitive. Not bad necessarily just redundant. The whole contract thing was muddled and felt somewhat contrived. If a contract could be negotiated, then why wasn't it done before they left? The resolution to the "mystery" seemed, well, also muddled. I can infer, but I am left with lots of unanswered questions many of which can not be attributed to the basis for a sequel. The resolution also felt rushed like an afterthought or like the ending was changed quickly to set up a sequel etc...
I found the passing of time (as in how much) confusing multiple times in this book, but not so much as to stress me or really throw me out of the book. It was more that a few of the transitions were unclear.
So... In summary, I'm not sure what I think about this book. It's 4 stars in parts and 2 in others which averages to a 3. If the blurb really appeals to you, then it is probably worth the read. I am definitely not sorry I read it.
I cannot decide if I will read the sequel or not. That has less to do with my thoughts and feelings on this story, and more to do with personal reasons, preferences, and mood.
I was engrossed from the point Quill & the Keeper arrived at the city in the Hunters quarter. Things started making more sense & came better into focus. This section of the book, good 65 to 75.%, held my interest well. It was full of intrigue, relationship building, and character growth.
I liked both m/c's immensely, but I could see how the Keeper might bother some. Much of his role and traits could have easily been filled by a woman in a typical m/f story. Think mail order bride in Westerns or arranged marriages etc... But I did not find issue with it at all myself. That was his purpose and he stayed true to his characters role. My issue with what some call "chicks with dicks (CWD)" are only when it"s not true to the character 's role / set up like warriors and such. Quinn, as the hunter, stayed true to his role. He did not ever venture into CWD's territory.
The next section when they were "staking their claim" seemed a little long, drawn out, and repetitive. Not bad necessarily just redundant. The whole contract thing was muddled and felt somewhat contrived. If a contract could be negotiated, then why wasn't it done before they left? The resolution to the "mystery" seemed, well, also muddled. I can infer, but I am left with lots of unanswered questions many of which can not be attributed to the basis for a sequel. The resolution also felt rushed like an afterthought or like the ending was changed quickly to set up a sequel etc...
I found the passing of time (as in how much) confusing multiple times in this book, but not so much as to stress me or really throw me out of the book. It was more that a few of the transitions were unclear.
So... In summary, I'm not sure what I think about this book. It's 4 stars in parts and 2 in others which averages to a 3. If the blurb really appeals to you, then it is probably worth the read. I am definitely not sorry I read it.
I cannot decide if I will read the sequel or not. That has less to do with my thoughts and feelings on this story, and more to do with personal reasons, preferences, and mood.
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