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Serve Me
For some people there's nothing more appealing than the idea of a man forced to serve against his will, as a second-class citizen: a slave. Despite the dark history surrounding forced servitude and slavery, there remains a growing desire for depictions of fetishized slavery fantasies. Like rape fantasy, the appeal for readers in slave fiction lies not in a desire for the actual act, but in the ability to explore such things in a safe space. Many people harbor a secret wish to be forced into certain acts that they know they want, but have been socially conditioned to abhor. Such is the core of the Serve Me anthology. Be warned: these are not stories of consensual, negotiated power exchange. The stories in this anthology focus on true sexualized, erotic slavery: stories of men forced, coerced, or otherwise bound into a second-class life servicing another in whatever ways their master sees fit.
Idris is part of The Spoils of war: the last surviving member of a barbarian clan, he is famed in the gladiatorial arena for his bloody ruthlessness and outside the arena for his carnal appetites. His inner beast is calmed by the presence of his slave and lover, Theo, but to be true to his heart, Idris may have to risk breaking it. Samuel has spent years striving toward the Viscount's circles, where rich and fantastical parties are given and elaborate slave auctions held. He thinks he wants a young lover, but when he buys an Adonis known as Apollo, he realizes what he was truly missing. Now Apollo gives the orders, and it is Samuel saying, As You Wish. Life is Unforgiving for Aidan and Aaron, criminals who have been doomed to live as slaves to vampire masters, whose appetites can be agony... or bliss. When Aidan is given a new lease on life with a benevolent Master, his relief is tainted by pain at leaving Aaron behind; pain which only his Master Ryce has the power to end. Yuta is a gentle giant who joins a local gang for the sense of family that they can provide, but when they leave him high and dry in the middle of a failed heist, it's his captor, Takashima, who shows him what family can really mean as the vicious gang enforcer tenderly turns him into Takashima's Pet.
Idris is part of The Spoils of war: the last surviving member of a barbarian clan, he is famed in the gladiatorial arena for his bloody ruthlessness and outside the arena for his carnal appetites. His inner beast is calmed by the presence of his slave and lover, Theo, but to be true to his heart, Idris may have to risk breaking it. Samuel has spent years striving toward the Viscount's circles, where rich and fantastical parties are given and elaborate slave auctions held. He thinks he wants a young lover, but when he buys an Adonis known as Apollo, he realizes what he was truly missing. Now Apollo gives the orders, and it is Samuel saying, As You Wish. Life is Unforgiving for Aidan and Aaron, criminals who have been doomed to live as slaves to vampire masters, whose appetites can be agony... or bliss. When Aidan is given a new lease on life with a benevolent Master, his relief is tainted by pain at leaving Aaron behind; pain which only his Master Ryce has the power to end. Yuta is a gentle giant who joins a local gang for the sense of family that they can provide, but when they leave him high and dry in the middle of a failed heist, it's his captor, Takashima, who shows him what family can really mean as the vicious gang enforcer tenderly turns him into Takashima's Pet.
121 pages, ebook
First published August 23, 2013
27 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
October 31, 2013
Nonconsensual sexual enslavement is rarely written with a beautiful happily ever after. In Storm Moon Press's SERVE ME anthology, all four writers hit their mark, dead center. Each of these stories provides a moving journey of redemption.
The Spoils by Ms Hedley features a gruesome look at bloodsports. Idris is a berserker who is now a slave for the entertainment of a corrupt society. The world Ms Hedley builds is a loose interpretation of the Roman Empire under Caligula's reign. The twisted perversion of fighting gladiators satiates the deviant masses. The loser of a match either dies or gets fucked in the ass. This is alluringly erotic with its life or death theme. Ms Hedley does a good job of showing Idris's conflicted soul. His past is revealed in little bits which explains how he came to be a slave despite his enormous strength. It's a bit oddly explained and rather sad. Still, it works well with the story to bring a resolution to a hopeless situation.
As You Wish by Mr Belthir is a delightful twist on who is master and servant. This tale is powerfully erotic with its D/s theme. Samuel is a rich lord who is enamoured of a strong black slave, Apollo. It's never fully revealed as to why Apollo committed the crime of killing. It does set it up nicely for the dominant Apollo to be sold as a sex slave in an invitation only auction. The twist of who become the Dom is slick and wickedly stimulating. Apollo's command of the submissive Samuel is an aphrodisiac to D/s readers.
Life Is Unforgiving by Ms Rose draws deep sympathy for sex slaves Aidan and Aaron. This world is fascinating and it would be delightful if Ms Rose were to write a full-length novel set in it. The vampires of this world seem to exude quite a bit of power. The way criminals are sentenced is extreme. It's a zero tolerance policy which lumps hardened criminals and desperate shoplifters in the same category. With this kind of mentality, it is easy to see how power can be abused. This is never more apparent with Aidan's situation as a "blood-bag". The tortures at the hands of a cruel vampire master will sicken the reader. This dark situation contrasts nicely against the new vampire who buys Aidan. This journey of building trust is moving. The best lines in this story can be encapsulated on page 83 by Aidan's new master.
"Happy-ever-afters exist for everyone. … It's all a matter of timing."
Takashima's Pet by Fox Lee takes the pimp spot and it's my favourite story. I'm not a fan of mob, gangster or thug stories. So it is a surprise to me when this one touched me most. Ms Lee does an exquisite job of creating engaging characters with a heart wrenching backstory.
Takashima is a dangerous Yakuza crime boss. Everyone fears him because of his ruthlessness. Those who cross him don't survive well. With his penchant for buggering captive males, no one wants to be caught by him. Yuta makes a mistake by following his loser gang members to commit a crime. He's left out to dry when they are caught. This story starts off with brutal rape and ends with a believable and sweet happily ever after. Ms Lee weaves a stimulating story between a man who rules and a man who loves to submit. The yielding of Yuta is darling because of his simplicity. His desire to please his master with no excuses brings a tear to my eye. His need to belong and be wanted is what makes this story so good. Yuta isn't a doormat because once Takashima helps him build some self-confidence, Yuta does fight back when he's attacked. The erotic power exchange between Takashima and Yuta will generate a yearning for those with a submissive inclination.
This m/m anthology is recommended to kinky readers who enjoy the perfect blend of dark and light.
August 31, 2013
'Serve Me' is an anthology where each of the four stories deals with a form of slavery, in all its basest delineations. I think the concept of slavery, where one is completely at the mercy of another human being, can be titillating and arousing for some people. I found the subject fascinating but more from a clinical perspective in terms of understanding the appeal. Each of these four stories are well written and vary enough from the other that I didn't lose interest.
The Spoils by Anna Hedley
Idris is a slave, forced to fight in the arena as a gladiator. He was captured and sold mainly due to him being a berserker, which made him a heathen and an oddity to the Grecian people. Joining him in his horror of a life is Kage, who claims to be a demon, and Theo, whom Master Dominic gave to Idris. Kage is trying to help Idris, to remind him there are things to live for that don't involve killing, and Theo brings a caring and a humanity to Idris's world.
This is a story of brutality, debasement, and freedom. It's not easy to read as scenes of ordered rape are many and often accompanied by severe pain. The underlying message, though, is one of redemption and justice which enabled me to enjoy the story more than I would have otherwise.
As You Wish by Gabriel Belthir
Samuel is an accountant, quiet, very private and desperately wanting to make an entrance into high society. Specifically, the high society that buys and sells personal body slaves for use. At his very first auction he is beyond thrilled when he purchases Apollo, a gigantic dark-skinned man, who has quite the dominant streak toward his 'Little Master'. Now Samuel's true fantasies can begin, the ones where he wears the collar, is the slave, and lets go of all his responsibilities.
This story is about allowing yourself to let go, to trust and the hope that comes with falling in love. I really liked this story because it depicted that no matter what your 'status' in society, the heart and your desires will always rule. Plus, I liked these two characters very much.
Life is Unforgiving by Lor Rose
Aiden is a vampire master's blood bag, to be used, abused, humiliated, and destroyed in any manner which his master desires. Separated from his love, Aaron, when his old master sells him, Aiden is beyond distraught and once again revisits the idea of suicide to escape the sheer hell his life is. Aiden's new master, Ryce, confuses him. He lets him wear clothing, he doesn't keep him chained up, he feeds him regularly, and most importantly, he shows Aiden that a vampire bite can be painful (as Aiden knows) or it can bring indescribable pleasure.
This story is about the differences to be had based on whom the master is. One can deliver horrible fear and pain, while the other can provide warmth, respect and love. It's also about getting your very own happy ever after. This was probably my favorite of the four stories and that might be because Ryce is insistent that everyone deserves a happy ever after and I love that idea.
Takashima's Pet by Fox Lee
Yuta is a member of a Tokyo street gang who gets caught stealing by the yakuza boss's second in command, Takashima. Yuta's "friends" abandon him and Takashima takes him as his sex slave, but as soon as he discovers that Yuta is not only gay but a virgin, Takashima takes Yuta as his possession. He treats him well, much like a pet, but he isn't cruel or abusive and Yuta thrives under this care and attention. When Yuta's former gang members kidnap him to extort money, Yuta learns the extent of his master's love.
I didn't really view this story in a slave manner, more of a D/s type relationship. It was a very enjoyable love story.
NOTE: This book was provided by Storm Moon Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
The Spoils by Anna Hedley
Idris is a slave, forced to fight in the arena as a gladiator. He was captured and sold mainly due to him being a berserker, which made him a heathen and an oddity to the Grecian people. Joining him in his horror of a life is Kage, who claims to be a demon, and Theo, whom Master Dominic gave to Idris. Kage is trying to help Idris, to remind him there are things to live for that don't involve killing, and Theo brings a caring and a humanity to Idris's world.
This is a story of brutality, debasement, and freedom. It's not easy to read as scenes of ordered rape are many and often accompanied by severe pain. The underlying message, though, is one of redemption and justice which enabled me to enjoy the story more than I would have otherwise.
As You Wish by Gabriel Belthir
Samuel is an accountant, quiet, very private and desperately wanting to make an entrance into high society. Specifically, the high society that buys and sells personal body slaves for use. At his very first auction he is beyond thrilled when he purchases Apollo, a gigantic dark-skinned man, who has quite the dominant streak toward his 'Little Master'. Now Samuel's true fantasies can begin, the ones where he wears the collar, is the slave, and lets go of all his responsibilities.
This story is about allowing yourself to let go, to trust and the hope that comes with falling in love. I really liked this story because it depicted that no matter what your 'status' in society, the heart and your desires will always rule. Plus, I liked these two characters very much.
Life is Unforgiving by Lor Rose
Aiden is a vampire master's blood bag, to be used, abused, humiliated, and destroyed in any manner which his master desires. Separated from his love, Aaron, when his old master sells him, Aiden is beyond distraught and once again revisits the idea of suicide to escape the sheer hell his life is. Aiden's new master, Ryce, confuses him. He lets him wear clothing, he doesn't keep him chained up, he feeds him regularly, and most importantly, he shows Aiden that a vampire bite can be painful (as Aiden knows) or it can bring indescribable pleasure.
This story is about the differences to be had based on whom the master is. One can deliver horrible fear and pain, while the other can provide warmth, respect and love. It's also about getting your very own happy ever after. This was probably my favorite of the four stories and that might be because Ryce is insistent that everyone deserves a happy ever after and I love that idea.
Takashima's Pet by Fox Lee
Yuta is a member of a Tokyo street gang who gets caught stealing by the yakuza boss's second in command, Takashima. Yuta's "friends" abandon him and Takashima takes him as his sex slave, but as soon as he discovers that Yuta is not only gay but a virgin, Takashima takes Yuta as his possession. He treats him well, much like a pet, but he isn't cruel or abusive and Yuta thrives under this care and attention. When Yuta's former gang members kidnap him to extort money, Yuta learns the extent of his master's love.
I didn't really view this story in a slave manner, more of a D/s type relationship. It was a very enjoyable love story.
NOTE: This book was provided by Storm Moon Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 6, 2015
“The Spoils” by Anna Hedley
(Warning: For those that know what a “maenad” is you may have trouble with matching it to the story.)
This is a mix of Graeco-Roman culture and mythology with a dash of other. The world has very dehumanizing slavery for all creatures. The thing I thought was interesting was that they had a one line about a shortage of women that was recent but no other explanation or any other mention. I thought the world was interesting and brutal. The events that happen sound just terrible and sad but ultimately our “hero” gets redemption. This was a good read that was well written but missing something.
“As You Wish” by Gabriel Belthir
This was a much sweeter tale than the last story. The writing was good, nothing outstanding but good. The world was a steampunk one, which had a subculture of slave owning. It seemed that it wasn’t strictly legal but underground and to a degree accepted. I liked the characters. Samuel was a cutie and Apollo was a gentle guy. It seemed to be an unlikely part of his character that he had killed. I enjoyed the story but it was a little predictable and shallow.
“Life Is Unforgiving” by Lor Rose
This was another sweet tale. I really liked this one. It was really a warm tale all the way through. When I first started this story I thought it would end up being much grittier. I still don’t understand why Ryce starts his “relationship” with Aidan the way he did. I would have liked to hear why. The rest of what he did makes more sense. Ryce seems like a romantic guy which with Aidan’s past is nice. I really liked the ending. Would love to see a more expanded version of this tale but as is it is a nice comfy read.
“Takashima’s Pet” by Fox Lee
A bit of rough stuff in this story. Yuta is a boy in a gang in Tokyo. He doesn’t really want to be in the gang but wants the companionship and friends it provides. Takashima is the second in command of Tokyo’s yakuza. When Yuta is ditched by his so called gang “brothers” while trying to rob Takashima, Takashima takes Yuta. Yuta is a virgin and after when Takashima realizes this he tells Yuta he belongs to him now. This is a cute tale actually. Yes, it has BDSM in it and Takashima called Yuta his dog but they are both very happy in their relationship. It was actually very sweet.
(Warning: For those that know what a “maenad” is you may have trouble with matching it to the story.)
This is a mix of Graeco-Roman culture and mythology with a dash of other. The world has very dehumanizing slavery for all creatures. The thing I thought was interesting was that they had a one line about a shortage of women that was recent but no other explanation or any other mention. I thought the world was interesting and brutal. The events that happen sound just terrible and sad but ultimately our “hero” gets redemption. This was a good read that was well written but missing something.
“As You Wish” by Gabriel Belthir
This was a much sweeter tale than the last story. The writing was good, nothing outstanding but good. The world was a steampunk one, which had a subculture of slave owning. It seemed that it wasn’t strictly legal but underground and to a degree accepted. I liked the characters. Samuel was a cutie and Apollo was a gentle guy. It seemed to be an unlikely part of his character that he had killed. I enjoyed the story but it was a little predictable and shallow.
“Life Is Unforgiving” by Lor Rose
This was another sweet tale. I really liked this one. It was really a warm tale all the way through. When I first started this story I thought it would end up being much grittier. I still don’t understand why Ryce starts his “relationship” with Aidan the way he did. I would have liked to hear why. The rest of what he did makes more sense. Ryce seems like a romantic guy which with Aidan’s past is nice. I really liked the ending. Would love to see a more expanded version of this tale but as is it is a nice comfy read.
“Takashima’s Pet” by Fox Lee
A bit of rough stuff in this story. Yuta is a boy in a gang in Tokyo. He doesn’t really want to be in the gang but wants the companionship and friends it provides. Takashima is the second in command of Tokyo’s yakuza. When Yuta is ditched by his so called gang “brothers” while trying to rob Takashima, Takashima takes Yuta. Yuta is a virgin and after when Takashima realizes this he tells Yuta he belongs to him now. This is a cute tale actually. Yes, it has BDSM in it and Takashima called Yuta his dog but they are both very happy in their relationship. It was actually very sweet.
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August 31, 2016The first three stories were kind of blah. The last one, Takashima's Pet, was quite delightful.
I'm off to see what else Fox Lee has written..
ETA - on re-reading, Takashima's Pet is even more delicious. :)
I'm off to see what else Fox Lee has written..
ETA - on re-reading, Takashima's Pet is even more delicious. :)
September 25, 2013
Forced servitude is the common theme in this anthology about slave fantasies. If non-con, multiple partners, slave pets, bondage, and humiliation are triggers, stay away. If not, you may find something here to titillate. Overall rating = 3.0 stars
The Spoils by Anna Hedley (paranormal/fantasy, warrior & pleasure slaves, violence and gore; 3.0 stars)
Idris’ berserker skills make him a formidable combatant in the arena where he fights for the entertainment and gain of his Master. Problem is, Idris can’t control when he “whites out” and goes crazy on his opponents’ asses, and he remains invincible. That is, until he meets the snarky demon Kage, who kicks his butt; until he starts hallucinating the ghosts of all those he’s killed in the arena.
Idris is going through the motions, he’s had enough of carnage and chewing on his opponent’s guts. Theo, a maenad (confusing as they are feminine; or maybe this is a playful poke at girly guys?) pleasure slave with magic healing skills, is given to Idris. He and Theo take a pretty quick cottoning to each other… or maybe Idris just appreciates healing massages… and Theo just wants his freedom. Anyway, I’m not really feeling it.
Kage, however, is fun. He’s a sexy, wise-cracking ninja master with a wicked toothed whip, and he knows how to take control. We don’t get nearly enough of this demon match-maker.
The debauchery a la ancient Rome, is chock-a-block with lusty pleasure slave rapey-ness, multiple partners, oily wrestling, public sex and humiliation, and even a double penetration. So, lots of fluid swapping excess swamping the action.
As You Wish by Gabriel Belthir (historical/slave auction, role play; 3.0 stars)
Set in a pseudo Victorian-era England, a young working stiff gets his fondest wish when he is invited to hobnob with the ton. It’s never clear just what Samuel’s allure is to Viscount Edmund Kaylock, why he’s been invited to his private slave auction at the mansion-- I was eager for information about that.
Samuel can’t believe his good fortune as he surveys the tall and massive, ebony skinned, Apollo, up for bid. This slave spells danger, is rumored to have murdered, but that doesn’t stop Samuel from taking him home.
There is some initial awkward racial “Mandingo” stereotyping that had me worried. But a nice role twist develops and Apollo eventually shows insight and ingenuity. I found this mostly pedestrian though, and there’s not a lot of world-building. But, there is a hot role-play scene and the relationship works sweetly in the end.
Life is Unforgiving by Lor Rose (paranormal/vamps; 3.5 stars)
In this paranormal vamp story the slaves are called ‘blood bags’. Vamps, or Daeva, are out in the world but feared by all. And they are allowed to take slaves.
Aidan is discarded by his old Master, he’s sold to Ryce who is quite gentle and indulgent with him. So things start looking up for the horribly abused Aidan. There is a very hot menage scene-- Aidan is in the middle of a vamp sandwich with Ryce and vamp friend, Levant. They work very well together, in concert and synchronized… oh hell, the whole thing is sexy. Let’s just say that Aidan’s luck has changed when he discovers vamp sex. He may even find vamp love. This is my favorite of the anthology, I like Ryce’s treatment of Aidan throughout and his promising him a happy ever after is sweetly romantic.
Takashima’s Pet by Fox Lee (contemporary, yakuza/crime, pet slave; 2.0 stars)
Yuta has the misfortune of getting caught when his gang attempts to rob Takashima’s warehouse; they take off running, leaving him behind. Fortunately, the well-known yakuza likes the look of Yuta and gives him the choice of death or becoming his sex slave.
The first day Takashima keeps Yuta he leaves him alone bound, ball-gagged and catheterized on his bed. For the whole day. Alone. This was completely unappealing. It doesn’t matter what Takeshima thinks of Yuta, it’s just plain dangerous. The blurb says that Takashima tenderly teaches Yuta the meaning of family. It’s all relative, I suppose as Yuta hasn’t known much tender love in his life. He quickly falls into his new life as a pet and seemingly in love with his Master. Not surprising since he doesn’t have anywhere else to go. I didn’t find this particularly romantic or erotic, I couldn’t get past the initial abuse.
For this review, give-aways, author interviews, and much more:
August 27, 2013
Anthology rating as a whole: 3.5 Stars
A collection of four stories that addresses slavery and issues of forced submission and dub-con. Yes, there are non-con elements, but they are periphery. I liked all the stories with some quibbles here and there. None were out-of-the-ballpark amazing, but one I really enjoyed and the others were entertaining. Definitely no duds in the lot. While there are the hardcore elements, these are romances and therefore fulfill certain expectations.
Spoils of War by Anna Hedley, 3.5 stars
Intriguing mix of Graeco-Roman culture and mythology to create a fantasy setting for this bloodthirsty story. Idris is a gladiator and beserker and yes, the matches are appropriately gruesome to reflect it. He's brutal and careless until he finally comes to care for another.
The story has dubcon elements without a doubt and references noncon. It is a harsh world and when Idris meets his match in Kage it leads to some radical changes in his life. The games masters play with their slaves is for entertainment and Idris is a slave. When a slave can no longer fulfill their function the alternative is not pleasant and it is illustrated several times through out the story.
And laugh if you will, but I found the use of the term "maenad" for a young male pleasure slave such a gendered disjunction that my brain rebelled every single time they used it.
As You Wish by Gabriel Belthir, 3 stars
A fun twist on Victorian morality with a slave auction that goes a bit differently than you expect. Samuel is a repressed and unsatisfied bank accountant until he finally gets a invitation to and exclusive party. Assured that his life and standing will be catapulted by having made such connections, but Samuel has no idea how much his life will be changed.
I'm always a bit uneasy when race is a substantial emphasis of a story. Here it succeeds by unsettling the traditional paradigm. This is definitely a softer story compared to others though the submission required is done firmly.
Life Is Unforgivingby Lor Rose, 3 stars
The dichotomy of vampires explored in this futuristic tale of slavery. Aiden's brutal existence takes a change that he never expected when he's sold to a new master. Ryce and Levent, daevas of a high class welcome Aiden into his new home. And though his new life is amazing, Aiden still morns for the love he left behind.
I liked the twist in the story, but Ryce's behavior wasn't explained very well, mostly due to the first person narrative from Aiden's perspective. In addition, the resolution seemed rushed and very sweet.
Takashima's Pet by Fox Lee, 4 stars
Romantic yakuza story that starts dubious, but ends with devotion.
Yuta is the patsy of his gang. Not that he particularly wanted to be in a gang, and what they wanted him to do is not what he's any good for. He ends up taking the fall when his brothers abandon him on a failed robbery attempt and he finds himself on knees in front of a rival gang leader. Takashima issues an ultimatum. Yuta can give up his pride or his life.
The interactions between Takashima and Yuta are pretty hot. There's some aggressive TPE at the beginning that morphs as they get to know each other. It's short, but steamy and messy fun. My favorite of the collection.
Recommended to readers who like a rougher edge to sex with some tolerance for violence.
~~ A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
A collection of four stories that addresses slavery and issues of forced submission and dub-con. Yes, there are non-con elements, but they are periphery. I liked all the stories with some quibbles here and there. None were out-of-the-ballpark amazing, but one I really enjoyed and the others were entertaining. Definitely no duds in the lot. While there are the hardcore elements, these are romances and therefore fulfill certain expectations.
Spoils of War by Anna Hedley, 3.5 stars
Intriguing mix of Graeco-Roman culture and mythology to create a fantasy setting for this bloodthirsty story. Idris is a gladiator and beserker and yes, the matches are appropriately gruesome to reflect it. He's brutal and careless until he finally comes to care for another.
The story has dubcon elements without a doubt and references noncon. It is a harsh world and when Idris meets his match in Kage it leads to some radical changes in his life. The games masters play with their slaves is for entertainment and Idris is a slave. When a slave can no longer fulfill their function the alternative is not pleasant and it is illustrated several times through out the story.
And laugh if you will, but I found the use of the term "maenad" for a young male pleasure slave such a gendered disjunction that my brain rebelled every single time they used it.
As You Wish by Gabriel Belthir, 3 stars
A fun twist on Victorian morality with a slave auction that goes a bit differently than you expect. Samuel is a repressed and unsatisfied bank accountant until he finally gets a invitation to and exclusive party. Assured that his life and standing will be catapulted by having made such connections, but Samuel has no idea how much his life will be changed.
I'm always a bit uneasy when race is a substantial emphasis of a story. Here it succeeds by unsettling the traditional paradigm. This is definitely a softer story compared to others though the submission required is done firmly.
Life Is Unforgivingby Lor Rose, 3 stars
The dichotomy of vampires explored in this futuristic tale of slavery. Aiden's brutal existence takes a change that he never expected when he's sold to a new master. Ryce and Levent, daevas of a high class welcome Aiden into his new home. And though his new life is amazing, Aiden still morns for the love he left behind.
I liked the twist in the story, but Ryce's behavior wasn't explained very well, mostly due to the first person narrative from Aiden's perspective. In addition, the resolution seemed rushed and very sweet.
Takashima's Pet by Fox Lee, 4 stars
Romantic yakuza story that starts dubious, but ends with devotion.
Yuta is the patsy of his gang. Not that he particularly wanted to be in a gang, and what they wanted him to do is not what he's any good for. He ends up taking the fall when his brothers abandon him on a failed robbery attempt and he finds himself on knees in front of a rival gang leader. Takashima issues an ultimatum. Yuta can give up his pride or his life.
The interactions between Takashima and Yuta are pretty hot. There's some aggressive TPE at the beginning that morphs as they get to know each other. It's short, but steamy and messy fun. My favorite of the collection.
Recommended to readers who like a rougher edge to sex with some tolerance for violence.
~~ A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
September 13, 2013
Mine is
Life is Unforgiving.
I cannot wait for this one! I'm on pins and needles. This antho is totally up my alley.
November 4, 2013
As a Storm Moon author, I received a free copy in exchange for a review. Enslavement fantasy might not be for everyone, but I figured it was worth a look–based on the cover art alone this was hard to resist. I would totally frame a print of the cover art in the right room. Although it, or perhaps the content, might be the reason I can’t find Serve Me on Amazon. Don’t worry, all websites where it is available are listed below after the review.
And if you have any interest in power play at all, this anthology is really worth checking out. Its 4 stories explore the concept through a wide variety of genres and relationship dynamics.
The Spoils- Anna Hedley 4 stars
Idris is a gladiator in a fantasy world mashup of Greco-roman culture, populated with a myriad of races including (male) maenads and satyrs. I have some friends with what I can only describe as serious satyr fetishes ;D, but I’m not sure I’d rec this one to them as it opens with some brutal, gruesome violence to said satyrs. Idris is very good at his job.
But next thing he knows he’s lost a fight to a mage, whose attacks seem to leave lingering side effects–ghostly images of the people Idris has killed, in the arena and before it.
Idris’ master goes on to buy the mage, who identifies himself as Kage, a demon. Kage is sassy and charismatic, aggressive and yet, at times, oddly tender. This sometimes savage story is also relieved by moment of sweetness between Idris and his new maenad slave, Theo. Genuinely hot sex and interesting group dynamics made me fall for this story even if it is harsh in the opening scenes.
The ending became confusing (who or what is Kage, really? What are his motivations?) but Idris’ backstory was handled well without bogging down the forward momentum of the plot, and on the whole this piece strikes a balance between brutality and feckless optimism.
As You Wish-Gabriel Belthir 4 Stars
Genrewise, I think this interracial story is steampunk, based on one throwaway reference to airships. In any event it’s a lovely play on Victorian social mores, and daringly explores racial mores as well. Samuel is excited to be invited to a Lord’s private slave auction, where he picks up the lifelong contract of Apollo–several decades after African slavery ended.
I admired Apollo at once as he keeps his composure and his dignity despite his unfortunate circumstances. As a well-built, physically aggressive black man, he does fall into some stereotypes, but also reveals acute intelligence and sensitivity about his social status and his role in he and Samuel’s new relationship. This story does use the n-word slur, although it seems about as well placed as that slur could ever be as Apollo uses it to make a very strong point.
Samuel is endearingly awkward in his new role as a Master, as he and Apollo try to come around to what he really wants. This leads to a subversion of their public roles.
I love power play in my fiction, usually the subtler the better, so I really enjoyed this twist although in the end the relationship transforms into a consensual master/slave dynamic that wasn’t particularly different from many I’ve read before. The climax also included some violent sex without a safeword, which was used to make a definite point about the levels of trust and desire between Apollo and Samuel but veered farther into dubcon territory than I’d expected in this particular story (The Spoils’ brutal opening had the benefit of reminding me to keep my guard up, but I relaxed on this one). Their aftercare scene was beautifully done, though, and cemented their ultimately affectionate and caring dynamic.
Life Is Unforgiving-Lor Rose 3 Stars
This story starts off strong, with a heatwrenching scene as our protagonist Aidan is sold away from his friend and lover, Aaron, by their vampire masters. A dystopia where humans are kept as ready blood sources and/or breeding stock by vampires? So far, so cool! And when Aidan comes to the bed of his new master Ryce and Ryce’s friend Levant, it’s a dynamic I’ve really enjoyed in the past–a dubious consent for the victim made sweet by how very pleasurable it turns out to be. Impossible in real life, but hot and oddly comforting in fiction.
This story also demonstrates a flair for language as it depicts Aidan’s heartbreak and confusion in the opening scenes, but I felt the voice and tone became choppy during the sex and never quite recovered. This is also the first urban fantasy story I’ve ever read where the modern-day elements felt superfluous. It might be that the opening scene suggested a solid vampiric-ruled dystopia, so seeing free humans milling about was jarring (and required some leaps of logic a complete vampire conquest wouldn’t have required). More importantly, I think it jars with the fantasy. If someone is raped (and enjoys it), but then goes Christmas shopping in the next scene, the “let’s pretend” aspects get confused. If the consent dynamics are removed far from reality, I like to see the rest of the story far removed from reality as well.
The ending of this story was satisfying, and I was surprised how much I wanted a happy ending for everyone involved. Although it seemed a bit rushed. What does Ryce see in the mostly (and understandably) passive Aidan, that he declares & demonstrates his love in such profound terms? This story may have benefited from a few more scenes showing the two growing close.
Takashima’s Pet-Fox Lee 5 Stars
This story is also in a real-world setting, the Yakuza gangs of Japan, but the dynamic was gentler than the one in Love is Unforgiving and if anything, the contrast between the real outside world and the fantasy of the relationship only made certain scenes (like semi-public phonesex) hotter. Not least because phonesex is much less likely to feature dubious consent (you can always hang up, provided it’s not a hostage situation) and so the cognitive dissonance is less. Also because Takashima, the kidnapper of the protagonist Yuta (who was actually captured in a gang raid gone wrong), has a very nuanced view of servitude:
“You’re a sex slave,” he told Yuta. “Not furniture. Sit over there and drink with
me.”
I found myself liking Takashima a lot. He’s a violent mob boss, certainly, but keeping Yuta as a slave is actually the nicer of his options (he does give Yuta the choice, though), and you can’t deny he man’s got some style. He even offers to send word back to Yuta’s wife or girlfriend, assuming he’s got one, that he’s alive and mostly well.
A lot of the character motivations still make the most sense if they’re operating on “porn logic” (as when taxi drivers find sex in the backseat more convenient than just driving to an ATM), but the sex is hot and the moments of caregiving from Takashima and Yuta’s opening up to him are heartwarming. Taka’s a genuine sweetheart of a dom. I’d love to see more like him.
Yuta’s also a very sympathetic character, and I was glad to see him owning his desires. He does have one moment of emotional-arc-ordained stupidity (suffice to say, when your lover gives you a new electronic piece and says “now I can always find you,” it shouldn’t be a surprise that the item is GPS equipped), but it certainly doesn’t threaten the integrity of the story. Although not a completely fluffy fantasy, Takashima’s Pet is a very endearing one.
This review is cross-posted from TC-Mill.com.
And if you have any interest in power play at all, this anthology is really worth checking out. Its 4 stories explore the concept through a wide variety of genres and relationship dynamics.
The Spoils- Anna Hedley 4 stars
Idris is a gladiator in a fantasy world mashup of Greco-roman culture, populated with a myriad of races including (male) maenads and satyrs. I have some friends with what I can only describe as serious satyr fetishes ;D, but I’m not sure I’d rec this one to them as it opens with some brutal, gruesome violence to said satyrs. Idris is very good at his job.
But next thing he knows he’s lost a fight to a mage, whose attacks seem to leave lingering side effects–ghostly images of the people Idris has killed, in the arena and before it.
Idris’ master goes on to buy the mage, who identifies himself as Kage, a demon. Kage is sassy and charismatic, aggressive and yet, at times, oddly tender. This sometimes savage story is also relieved by moment of sweetness between Idris and his new maenad slave, Theo. Genuinely hot sex and interesting group dynamics made me fall for this story even if it is harsh in the opening scenes.
The ending became confusing (who or what is Kage, really? What are his motivations?) but Idris’ backstory was handled well without bogging down the forward momentum of the plot, and on the whole this piece strikes a balance between brutality and feckless optimism.
As You Wish-Gabriel Belthir 4 Stars
Genrewise, I think this interracial story is steampunk, based on one throwaway reference to airships. In any event it’s a lovely play on Victorian social mores, and daringly explores racial mores as well. Samuel is excited to be invited to a Lord’s private slave auction, where he picks up the lifelong contract of Apollo–several decades after African slavery ended.
I admired Apollo at once as he keeps his composure and his dignity despite his unfortunate circumstances. As a well-built, physically aggressive black man, he does fall into some stereotypes, but also reveals acute intelligence and sensitivity about his social status and his role in he and Samuel’s new relationship. This story does use the n-word slur, although it seems about as well placed as that slur could ever be as Apollo uses it to make a very strong point.
Samuel is endearingly awkward in his new role as a Master, as he and Apollo try to come around to what he really wants. This leads to a subversion of their public roles.
I love power play in my fiction, usually the subtler the better, so I really enjoyed this twist although in the end the relationship transforms into a consensual master/slave dynamic that wasn’t particularly different from many I’ve read before. The climax also included some violent sex without a safeword, which was used to make a definite point about the levels of trust and desire between Apollo and Samuel but veered farther into dubcon territory than I’d expected in this particular story (The Spoils’ brutal opening had the benefit of reminding me to keep my guard up, but I relaxed on this one). Their aftercare scene was beautifully done, though, and cemented their ultimately affectionate and caring dynamic.
Life Is Unforgiving-Lor Rose 3 Stars
This story starts off strong, with a heatwrenching scene as our protagonist Aidan is sold away from his friend and lover, Aaron, by their vampire masters. A dystopia where humans are kept as ready blood sources and/or breeding stock by vampires? So far, so cool! And when Aidan comes to the bed of his new master Ryce and Ryce’s friend Levant, it’s a dynamic I’ve really enjoyed in the past–a dubious consent for the victim made sweet by how very pleasurable it turns out to be. Impossible in real life, but hot and oddly comforting in fiction.
This story also demonstrates a flair for language as it depicts Aidan’s heartbreak and confusion in the opening scenes, but I felt the voice and tone became choppy during the sex and never quite recovered. This is also the first urban fantasy story I’ve ever read where the modern-day elements felt superfluous. It might be that the opening scene suggested a solid vampiric-ruled dystopia, so seeing free humans milling about was jarring (and required some leaps of logic a complete vampire conquest wouldn’t have required). More importantly, I think it jars with the fantasy. If someone is raped (and enjoys it), but then goes Christmas shopping in the next scene, the “let’s pretend” aspects get confused. If the consent dynamics are removed far from reality, I like to see the rest of the story far removed from reality as well.
The ending of this story was satisfying, and I was surprised how much I wanted a happy ending for everyone involved. Although it seemed a bit rushed. What does Ryce see in the mostly (and understandably) passive Aidan, that he declares & demonstrates his love in such profound terms? This story may have benefited from a few more scenes showing the two growing close.
Takashima’s Pet-Fox Lee 5 Stars
This story is also in a real-world setting, the Yakuza gangs of Japan, but the dynamic was gentler than the one in Love is Unforgiving and if anything, the contrast between the real outside world and the fantasy of the relationship only made certain scenes (like semi-public phonesex) hotter. Not least because phonesex is much less likely to feature dubious consent (you can always hang up, provided it’s not a hostage situation) and so the cognitive dissonance is less. Also because Takashima, the kidnapper of the protagonist Yuta (who was actually captured in a gang raid gone wrong), has a very nuanced view of servitude:
“You’re a sex slave,” he told Yuta. “Not furniture. Sit over there and drink with
me.”
I found myself liking Takashima a lot. He’s a violent mob boss, certainly, but keeping Yuta as a slave is actually the nicer of his options (he does give Yuta the choice, though), and you can’t deny he man’s got some style. He even offers to send word back to Yuta’s wife or girlfriend, assuming he’s got one, that he’s alive and mostly well.
A lot of the character motivations still make the most sense if they’re operating on “porn logic” (as when taxi drivers find sex in the backseat more convenient than just driving to an ATM), but the sex is hot and the moments of caregiving from Takashima and Yuta’s opening up to him are heartwarming. Taka’s a genuine sweetheart of a dom. I’d love to see more like him.
Yuta’s also a very sympathetic character, and I was glad to see him owning his desires. He does have one moment of emotional-arc-ordained stupidity (suffice to say, when your lover gives you a new electronic piece and says “now I can always find you,” it shouldn’t be a surprise that the item is GPS equipped), but it certainly doesn’t threaten the integrity of the story. Although not a completely fluffy fantasy, Takashima’s Pet is a very endearing one.
This review is cross-posted from TC-Mill.com.
01-mm-tbr
August 26, 2015tbr 2014
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