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Worthy
Dear Author,
This is a dystopian class-based society where being a slave boy is a prized position. For those not born into the wealthy class, there are few options for work. A position as a slave boy means security and safety from a life of poverty and the danger of the streets.
Dystopian - set in a world similar to ours but with a few tweaks. Usually a bit darker or a more frightening version of what our society could become.
Photo Description:
An agile young slave is bent backward over the knees of his doting master; his bindings are loose and their arrangement is “in the cards”.
This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love Has No Boundaries" event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.
This is a dystopian class-based society where being a slave boy is a prized position. For those not born into the wealthy class, there are few options for work. A position as a slave boy means security and safety from a life of poverty and the danger of the streets.
Dystopian - set in a world similar to ours but with a few tweaks. Usually a bit darker or a more frightening version of what our society could become.
Photo Description:
An agile young slave is bent backward over the knees of his doting master; his bindings are loose and their arrangement is “in the cards”.
This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love Has No Boundaries" event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.
144 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 29, 2013
85 people are currently reading
767 people want to read
About the author
Lia Black
12 books145 followersLia Black tends to do everything the hard way; beginning with being born backwards into the world and now raising a teenage daughter by herself in conservative Upstate NY. Her career choices are no less extreme, including occupations of fine artist, computer geek, firefighter, and mortician’s assistant— just to name a few.
A fellow Author describes Black's mind as "a glorious kaleidoscope of f*ckeduppery"; she loves the challenge of writing about people who probably have no business being together on the same planet, and who occasionally deal with questionable sanity/morality. It’s fun to glue broken things together and try to make something interesting and new.
--She especially loves broken boys who have lots of fascinating pieces.
Her characters often suffer through the worlds she creates for them, which leaves them a little cranky and sometimes less lovable than others in a romance genre. Yet Black swears that someday, "there will be comedy."
A fellow Author describes Black's mind as "a glorious kaleidoscope of f*ckeduppery"; she loves the challenge of writing about people who probably have no business being together on the same planet, and who occasionally deal with questionable sanity/morality. It’s fun to glue broken things together and try to make something interesting and new.
--She especially loves broken boys who have lots of fascinating pieces.
Her characters often suffer through the worlds she creates for them, which leaves them a little cranky and sometimes less lovable than others in a romance genre. Yet Black swears that someday, "there will be comedy."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
March 24, 2023
*4.5*
This is a dystopian class-based society where being a slave boy is a prized position. For those not born into the wealthy class, there are few options for work. A position as a slave boy means security and safety from a life of poverty and the danger of the streets.
Seven (Sev) knows he has very little worth, and that he is at the mercy of the caste system he was born into. Sev grew up with the gypsies, but is being used by a man who stole him.
It was the gypsies who’d trained his body to bend, and dance… and fuck.
Count Demetrie Silvastrano is tired of the status quo. One day he observes Sev’s dancing, and he is intrigued.
Not a huge fan of reading bdsm, but this was on the lighter side. The writing was engaging, and world building not overwhelming. It was wonderful to watch these two characters fall in love despite the odds against them.
Sev knew how to be less than nothing, and so any recognition at all— even punishment— made him something closer to human.
Such an excellent ending!
Seven (Sev) knows he has very little worth, and that he is at the mercy of the caste system he was born into. Sev grew up with the gypsies, but is being used by a man who stole him.
It was the gypsies who’d trained his body to bend, and dance… and fuck.
Count Demetrie Silvastrano is tired of the status quo. One day he observes Sev’s dancing, and he is intrigued.
Not a huge fan of reading bdsm, but this was on the lighter side. The writing was engaging, and world building not overwhelming. It was wonderful to watch these two characters fall in love despite the odds against them.
Sev knew how to be less than nothing, and so any recognition at all— even punishment— made him something closer to human.
Such an excellent ending!
Read
June 16, 2013So, this is the slave fic for you if you find the idea of slaves hot, as long as they're cosseted, lavishly dressed, well-fed, loved, and adored, but you really don't want to read about any actual discomfort, punishment, or non-consensual sex stuff.
Possibly the schoopiest, most diabetes-causing slave fic ever, but if you're into that then you'll adore it. Solid writing, good descriptions, and nice blow job scenes.
Possibly the schoopiest, most diabetes-causing slave fic ever, but if you're into that then you'll adore it. Solid writing, good descriptions, and nice blow job scenes.
November 22, 2014
Written August 17, 2013
4 Stars - a wonderful, hard and beautiful, romantic short story about a slave and his Master in a fictional future world.
I have some sort of wacky fascination with these stories that unfolds in a dystopian future or in a fictional historical world. Somewhere between fantasy and a fairy tale. After reading some M/M stories in this genre has my newly awakened love for these kind of books forced me to look for more undiscovered gems. This one, "Worthy" is a such great little gem.
Of course I couldn't help, but really love this sweet story about the humble, and so serving Sev (Seven - he was the seventh child born in a brothel in the slums). Sev is a an acrobat and dancer who becomes the slightly sadistic Count Demetrie Silvastrano's own private bedroom slave. A Master with needs, tough requirements but also with, sometimes, a so soft hand.
It's a future dystopia society where the rich have everything and to be a needed and appreciated slave in a rich man's house is an honor for a poor young boy...
Circumstances and events, as in a contemporary romance would feel very uncomfortable for me, is here, actually quite okay.
A tender-hearted master and slave story where both main characters got my heart. It was longing, heat and a beautiful finish. Approximately 150 pages of the joy of reading.
I LIKE - a cute and amusing story / a new favorite genre?
~~~~~~~~
A freebie from M/M Romance Group - you will find it here: http://www.mmromancegroup.com/?p=7959
4 Stars - a wonderful, hard and beautiful, romantic short story about a slave and his Master in a fictional future world.
I have some sort of wacky fascination with these stories that unfolds in a dystopian future or in a fictional historical world. Somewhere between fantasy and a fairy tale. After reading some M/M stories in this genre has my newly awakened love for these kind of books forced me to look for more undiscovered gems. This one, "Worthy" is a such great little gem.
“You’re mine now, Sev,” Demetrie murmured into his ear as they exited the car; his deep voice carved another notch into Sev’s heart.
“Always, Master,” Sev answered breathlessly, looking up at him through his thick eyelashes. He saw a nearly imperceptible shift of Demetrie’s eyes, the pupils dilating, and knew he had pleased him.’
Of course I couldn't help, but really love this sweet story about the humble, and so serving Sev (Seven - he was the seventh child born in a brothel in the slums). Sev is a an acrobat and dancer who becomes the slightly sadistic Count Demetrie Silvastrano's own private bedroom slave. A Master with needs, tough requirements but also with, sometimes, a so soft hand.
It's a future dystopia society where the rich have everything and to be a needed and appreciated slave in a rich man's house is an honor for a poor young boy...
“I was right.” He turned his head and whispered against Sev’s ear, “You are lovely when you cry… and your tears are delicious.”
‘Demetrie’s dark gaze shifted between them, then to Sev’s softly parted lips. He ran the pad of his thumb over them, “God, you’re beautiful… Don’t ever show that face to anyone but me, Sev… never.”
Circumstances and events, as in a contemporary romance would feel very uncomfortable for me, is here, actually quite okay.
A tender-hearted master and slave story where both main characters got my heart. It was longing, heat and a beautiful finish. Approximately 150 pages of the joy of reading.
I LIKE - a cute and amusing story / a new favorite genre?
~~~~~~~~
A freebie from M/M Romance Group - you will find it here: http://www.mmromancegroup.com/?p=7959
March 24, 2014
DNF.
Minor editing annoyances; clunky prose; cartoonish characterization.
It isn't terrible, but all three at once were killing me.
Not for me. Maybe for you!
Minor editing annoyances; clunky prose; cartoonish characterization.
It isn't terrible, but all three at once were killing me.
Not for me. Maybe for you!
December 4, 2013
Exquisite love story. Every romantic bone in my body just melted reading this. *deep sigh*
That said, I appreciate that some of the kink displayed here is more than others enjoy. Anyway, delightful interpretation of the image and request. One I'll revisit.
So many quotes deserve notice:
Sev knew how to be less than nothing, and so any recognition at all— even punishment— made him something closer to human.
“Don’t pull— I don’t want any marks on your body that I haven’t put there,” Demetrie cautioned."
“I used to make love to that man’s body; I want you to love him with your eyes as I touch your body and make love to you. Will you do that for him, Sev?”
That said, I appreciate that some of the kink displayed here is more than others enjoy. Anyway, delightful interpretation of the image and request. One I'll revisit.
So many quotes deserve notice:
Sev knew how to be less than nothing, and so any recognition at all— even punishment— made him something closer to human.
“Don’t pull— I don’t want any marks on your body that I haven’t put there,” Demetrie cautioned."
“I used to make love to that man’s body; I want you to love him with your eyes as I touch your body and make love to you. Will you do that for him, Sev?”
March 20, 2014
Great little M/M slave story, very hot and kinky, with strong world-building and two believable characters. Sev, the "dreg" slaveboy, was particularly interesting to me. I really liked how the author depicted his submissiveness. Too often in M/M BDSM you feel like the subs inhabit an entirely different mental universe than the Doms--that they are somehow so weak or helpless, almost innocent, that they need someone to boss them around in order to function.
Sev feels different: he definitely throws himself into his submissive relationship with Demetrie, and has compelling reasons to feel grateful to him and thus accept his domination, but there's nothing weak or helpless in his personality. He knows what he wants and isn't ashamed of his desires. He really is a remarkable creation. Considering that this is a slave story set in a deeply stratified society, I found their relationship refreshingly healthy and mutual. My only qualm was that the story contained a fair amount of unsignalled head-hopping--the perspective would suddenly change, sometimes for only a sentence or two. It makes the book feel less polished than it otherwise might. But still, a very satisfying, sexy read--and an author I will return to.
Sev feels different: he definitely throws himself into his submissive relationship with Demetrie, and has compelling reasons to feel grateful to him and thus accept his domination, but there's nothing weak or helpless in his personality. He knows what he wants and isn't ashamed of his desires. He really is a remarkable creation. Considering that this is a slave story set in a deeply stratified society, I found their relationship refreshingly healthy and mutual. My only qualm was that the story contained a fair amount of unsignalled head-hopping--the perspective would suddenly change, sometimes for only a sentence or two. It makes the book feel less polished than it otherwise might. But still, a very satisfying, sexy read--and an author I will return to.
Read
September 17, 2015Who'd have thought I'd be in need of something so sweet so soon?
Worthy profits from my current disgust with FCR and my need to clear my head of that for writing. It was just what I needed to achieve that. Heh.
Good writing, as sweet as falafel.
Worthy profits from my current disgust with FCR and my need to clear my head of that for writing. It was just what I needed to achieve that. Heh.
Good writing, as sweet as falafel.
January 8, 2015
3 Stars for the effort and for being a good diversion to pass the time.
A sweet and caloric slavefic fairytale. Enjoyable at first bite, unfortunately it only makes you hunger for something more sustainable than a sugar fix. (See this? I could write short reviews too)
Dare I stop my review here? I could, couldn't I? I maybe should too. Because what comes after this is a product of my over analyzing.
Nudge me if you wish for my trademark long-ass review.
*Edits 10/12/13 @ 11.03pm:
I have just answered some fun and interesting questionnaires on this book over at the Goodreads BDSM Group . I thought maybe I should share it here as well:
BOOK DETAILS:
Title: Worthy
Related: Love Has No Boundaries, Don't Read in the Closet Events
Author: Lia Black
Publication Date: June 15th, 2013
Type: Short Story, 47,228 words
Genre: Dystopian, Alternate Universe, M/M, Gay, Romance, Erotica, Consensual, Light BDSM
Tags/Keywords: Master/Slave, One-time Threeseome, Cross-dressing, Bondage, Dominance-Submission, BDSM, Acrobat, Contortionist, Circus Performer, Gypsy, Slave, Pleasure/Sexual Slave, Willing-slave, Chastity device/belt, Orgasm-denial, Whipping/Flogging, corporal Punishment, Rough Sex, Maledom, Interracial, Master/Pet, Menage, Threesomes, Romance, Young Man, Adored Pet/Slave, Age gap, Alpha Dominant Male, Alternate Universe, Anal Sex, Oral Sex, Hand-job,Androgyny, Bareback, Collaring & Leash, Cute Adorable Character, Effeminate Male Character, Erotica, HEA, Loving adoring partner, Piercing, Possessive Master, Twink, Restricted Freedom, Rich Wealthy MC, Rimming, Sensual, Slave Market, Slave Training, Submissive protagonist, Voyeurism, Fluffy
Description:
Dear Author,
This is a dystopian class-based society where being a slave boy is a prized position. For those not born into the wealthy class, there are few options for work. A position as a slave boy means security and safety from a life of poverty and the danger of the streets.
Dystopian - set in a world similar to ours but with a few tweaks. Usually a bit darker or a more frightening version of what our society could become.
Photo Description: (Click here to view the photo)
An agile young slave is bent backward over the knees of his doting master; his bindings are loose and their arrangement is “in the cards”.
This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love Has No Boundaries" event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.
WHERE TO GET THIS BOOK:
This is a FREEBIE in conjunction with the Goodreads M/M Romance group's Love Has No Boundaries event for year 2013.
* Reviewed on December 10th, 2013
August 2, 2013
This book was A-Maz-Ing!! That poor kid made my chest ache. What a wicked world Lia Black created. It was just insane. And the kinky fuckery...nice!! And the love...even nicer!! I can't recommend this free read enough. And I'm thinking of taking up gymnastics or something. :)
January 22, 2014
I'll give everybody 5 stars who can say me why I kept reading it.
June 7, 2017
3.5 Stars
Count Demetrie catches a glimpse of physically "flawed" Sev. He's intrigued by this contortionist performer and knows he must have him despite Sev being a dreg - a member of the lowest part of society.
Sev knows he's just a play thing, a whim to the count and strives to be perfect despite his untrained "slave" status. He's just grateful for any time and attention awarded to him.
This world is different where it's an honor to be a slave. People train to be one and they covet to be bought by the aristocracy so that they can serve. So yes the dynamic between these two are "master/dom" and "slave/sub". But there was a tender angst and of course a lot of heat as they deal with and redefine their roles.
I will be the first to say that bdsm is not at the top of my to-be-read list. However this was very light in bondage, choosing to focus more on the power exchange. Also since this is not real life contemporary but actually set in a world not our own, I could easily accept this set up and thus I enjoyed this fic quite immensely.
It's free so take a chance on it - I'm happy I did. Thanks Ingela!
Count Demetrie catches a glimpse of physically "flawed" Sev. He's intrigued by this contortionist performer and knows he must have him despite Sev being a dreg - a member of the lowest part of society.
Sev knows he's just a play thing, a whim to the count and strives to be perfect despite his untrained "slave" status. He's just grateful for any time and attention awarded to him.
This world is different where it's an honor to be a slave. People train to be one and they covet to be bought by the aristocracy so that they can serve. So yes the dynamic between these two are "master/dom" and "slave/sub". But there was a tender angst and of course a lot of heat as they deal with and redefine their roles.
I will be the first to say that bdsm is not at the top of my to-be-read list. However this was very light in bondage, choosing to focus more on the power exchange. Also since this is not real life contemporary but actually set in a world not our own, I could easily accept this set up and thus I enjoyed this fic quite immensely.
It's free so take a chance on it - I'm happy I did. Thanks Ingela!
June 29, 2013
Set in the dystopian society of beautiful Athena with its golden towers and flawless white is a wonderful love story that rose from the filthy slums which hide in its shadows. Worthy is reminiscent of Duck! and Dark Heart; sweet half-breed Sev being beautiful and so right in his submissive role. Their romance was a slow transformation between Owner and Sex Slave to the stunning dynamics of a true Master-Submissive relationship. Reading this story was a treasure and 100% fulfilling.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Rating: 4.5 stars
June 16, 2013
4.5 rounded up.
When it comes to filling a prompt, this author has it down pact. Not only did the most basic elements from the picture and letter make it into the story, but even the littlest of details were present.
From the sensational world building that even I understood (which, in itself is a feat), to the depth of each character, even some in such small roles, this was a fantastic read.
This is one author I'll have on my watch list for the future.
When it comes to filling a prompt, this author has it down pact. Not only did the most basic elements from the picture and letter make it into the story, but even the littlest of details were present.
From the sensational world building that even I understood (which, in itself is a feat), to the depth of each character, even some in such small roles, this was a fantastic read.
This is one author I'll have on my watch list for the future.
June 15, 2013
A new favorite... Great characters and story, so well written I couldn't put it down.
December 6, 2013
Worthy or unworthy? What happens when a person accepts their position in life and doesn't have a chip on their shoulder about it? In this erotic slavery story, it's delightful. Ms. Black writes a delicious romantic tale. It's quite moving because it crosses socioeconomic classes to prove a point.
The world building is just enough to give readers an understanding of this aristocratic world filled with slaves. What is interesting is the homogenous population and the behaviour of slaves. These slaves titles are "earned" and they do come across more as pampered prima donnas than slaves. They are petty and juvenile. Plus, as the Count observers, they are completely boring and "white washed".
Seven aka Sev is different. He's from a class even lower than dogs. Really, what is up with this lower than dogs? Then again, people do treat their dogs better than homeless. Sev is exotic both physically and mentally. He is an interesting character. He's neither pathetic nor a doormat. What he is, is a sweet, loving and loyal boy. No wonder he is always dressed in white.
Ms. Black does an excellent job of character building. I really liked both Sev and Demetrie. They are interesting and the chemistry between them is fiery hot. The sex they have together is beautiful. I wish it was more descriptive in the SM parts. Mmmm. It makes my panty wet. The menage between Demetrie, Sev and Michael is so good. This is one of the sweetest slavery stories I've read in a long time. This story is easily summed up for me in this passage -
"Why, Sev? Why haven't you tried to escape?" [Demetrie]
"Master, I did not realize I was your prisoner." Sev gazed up into Demetrie's eyes... (location 1540)
Seriously, how can anyone not sigh over this part?
I highly recommend this m/m romance to kinky readers who love a happily ever after.
The world building is just enough to give readers an understanding of this aristocratic world filled with slaves. What is interesting is the homogenous population and the behaviour of slaves. These slaves titles are "earned" and they do come across more as pampered prima donnas than slaves. They are petty and juvenile. Plus, as the Count observers, they are completely boring and "white washed".
Seven aka Sev is different. He's from a class even lower than dogs. Really, what is up with this lower than dogs? Then again, people do treat their dogs better than homeless. Sev is exotic both physically and mentally. He is an interesting character. He's neither pathetic nor a doormat. What he is, is a sweet, loving and loyal boy. No wonder he is always dressed in white.
Ms. Black does an excellent job of character building. I really liked both Sev and Demetrie. They are interesting and the chemistry between them is fiery hot. The sex they have together is beautiful. I wish it was more descriptive in the SM parts. Mmmm. It makes my panty wet. The menage between Demetrie, Sev and Michael is so good. This is one of the sweetest slavery stories I've read in a long time. This story is easily summed up for me in this passage -
"Why, Sev? Why haven't you tried to escape?" [Demetrie]
"Master, I did not realize I was your prisoner." Sev gazed up into Demetrie's eyes... (location 1540)
Seriously, how can anyone not sigh over this part?
I highly recommend this m/m romance to kinky readers who love a happily ever after.
May 3, 2019
Let me say that I didn't think that I would like this book as much as I did. At first I wanted to dislike Demetrie. He was cold, cruel, spoiled and bored. However, if he had been anything else in the beginning, I wouldn't have enjoyed watching him fall in love with Sev. Sev was so incredibly adorable a dancer/contortionist with a sweet heart of gold looking to have someone to please and take care of. He was so worthy of so much more than he currently had in his world I loved his defense and care of Demetrie and that Demetrie got to see someone care for him above and beyond his title and money I also appreciated that Sev's marks made him so deliciously imperfect in what was supposed to be a perfect world. I re-read this book and found that I still love it. I loved how Demetrie changed for the love of his pleasure slave. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling.
July 1, 2013
This is another outstanding story from "Love Has No Boundaries" that I probably would not have normally read given the story blurb, and I'm so glad I did! This is a master/slave story set in a dystopian fantasy world. It reminds me a little of Anne Rice's early erotica written as A. N. Roquelaure (the Sleeping Beauty series). Seven was born a 'dreg' with a birthmark over part of his face. He was raised by gypsies and became an accomplished acrobat. He's rescued from poverty by a noble, Demetrie. At first their relationship is very much one of master/slave but it grows into something much deeper as Seven's inner and outer beauty blossom under Demetrie's care.
It's a sort of very kinky My Fair Lady story--and I loved it.
It's a sort of very kinky My Fair Lady story--and I loved it.
June 18, 2013
Squee! I had a huge smile on my face after finishing this delicious and sweet story!! Thank you Lia for making my little prompt come true in ways I could never imagine. Brilliant!
December 28, 2013
I admit I haven't read much of Dystopian fiction. This is not a world where i would be happy to live. The world where Athaenian ruling aristocratic society are bent on keeping their lives of privilege, of racial purity and demand to be kept in the style they are accustomed to by chosen and highly valued slaves to care for them is not for me.
I dislike the way they control the rest of the living, the dregs, gypsies, afflicted and disabled, to allow or take their lives, to allow or prevent them eating, to force them to be labour slaves...but gradually eliminating those surplus to needs is a horrifying scenario. Yet would the extreme dictatorship regimes from past history not have done the same? So it is not just within the realms of fantasy that this sits uneasily with me but as a reminder of the inhumanity of mankind to mankind and other living creatures.
Then out of this horror comes Demetrie, fickle, an aristocratic Count known for his use and abuse of less fortunate lives to titillate and amuse until the novelty wears off and he discards his amusements. But then along comes Sev...from Seven, a young athletic dancer and part time criminal through need, one marred from the accepted norms of beauty by different coloured eyes and birthmark. Such a child would be alienated by most at first sight in our societies today. To Demetrie his difference is aesthetically pleasing. For an agreed time period Sev is to be his sex toy. Yet through BDSM practices a Master/slave relationship grows through Demetrie's dominance and Sev's naturally submissiveness. This same sex relationship cannot be tolerated by Athaenian society, and their hierarchy of entitlement means offspring are essential for continuation of family lines and associated wealth and place there.
So readers only will find how Lia takes her well crafted story and how it ends. All I will say is it had such beautiful sexual and scenes of romance, of giving, sharing and love...oh that we should all be lucky enough to experience such as this whatever our sexual leanings. I found this emotive, heartwarming at times, awful and horrifying at others. However, I found a new author whose work I will be happy to read if this is anything to go on.
Has to be in my five star rated stories. Loved it. English good and edited.
I dislike the way they control the rest of the living, the dregs, gypsies, afflicted and disabled, to allow or take their lives, to allow or prevent them eating, to force them to be labour slaves...but gradually eliminating those surplus to needs is a horrifying scenario. Yet would the extreme dictatorship regimes from past history not have done the same? So it is not just within the realms of fantasy that this sits uneasily with me but as a reminder of the inhumanity of mankind to mankind and other living creatures.
Then out of this horror comes Demetrie, fickle, an aristocratic Count known for his use and abuse of less fortunate lives to titillate and amuse until the novelty wears off and he discards his amusements. But then along comes Sev...from Seven, a young athletic dancer and part time criminal through need, one marred from the accepted norms of beauty by different coloured eyes and birthmark. Such a child would be alienated by most at first sight in our societies today. To Demetrie his difference is aesthetically pleasing. For an agreed time period Sev is to be his sex toy. Yet through BDSM practices a Master/slave relationship grows through Demetrie's dominance and Sev's naturally submissiveness. This same sex relationship cannot be tolerated by Athaenian society, and their hierarchy of entitlement means offspring are essential for continuation of family lines and associated wealth and place there.
So readers only will find how Lia takes her well crafted story and how it ends. All I will say is it had such beautiful sexual and scenes of romance, of giving, sharing and love...oh that we should all be lucky enough to experience such as this whatever our sexual leanings. I found this emotive, heartwarming at times, awful and horrifying at others. However, I found a new author whose work I will be happy to read if this is anything to go on.
Has to be in my five star rated stories. Loved it. English good and edited.
June 15, 2013
I stayed up, late into the night to see how things turned out for Sev and his (highly sexed) master, Demetrie. There are certainly twisty paths along the way, but the growing bond between this made-for-each couple is delicately handled.
I liked how determined Demetrie is to walk his own way through life. He's almost bowed over from external pressures, yet Sev acts like a soothing salve. Sev, having no idea how this world runs, can only be himself - loyal and steadfast.
Very nice.
I liked how determined Demetrie is to walk his own way through life. He's almost bowed over from external pressures, yet Sev acts like a soothing salve. Sev, having no idea how this world runs, can only be himself - loyal and steadfast.
Very nice.
June 26, 2017
I liked the story. It tugged at my heart, BUT it was a bit dark, too. The writing was good and the story grew into a sweet HEA.
August 31, 2013
I happen to love dystopian novels and so far I've pretty much liked everything out there that I've read in this category for MM. I really enjoyed this one. Demetrie is a product of his place and time - which is just how I like my dystopian characters to be. I try really hard not to insert modern or current time ideals and values and mores on these characters because that's the whole point. In the space they are in did they resonate? He did - and although his rebellion was equal parts in your face openly defiant yet had a very passive/agressive feel to it at times. Still - he never really wavered once his path was set. Sev, as the lowest caste of the whole thing, played very well but - truthfully - his was the character that knocked it down a star. He was a little too childlike for what his back story was revealed to be. I thought he should have been a bit hardened in some places - not too much. Just enough of an edge. To never question, to never wonder, to never really think about the way the society works seemed at odds with his gypsy upbringing which I interpreted as having a more free flowing and rebellious quality to it.
Nice prose - smooth and sweet. Some great talent here from a new to me author.
Overall very much enjoyed - absolutely would read more stories in this universe without any doubt!
Nice prose - smooth and sweet. Some great talent here from a new to me author.
Overall very much enjoyed - absolutely would read more stories in this universe without any doubt!
November 6, 2016
This was a pleasantly surprising good read for me. I really can't decide the time setting. I guess I would call it futuristic dystopian society. Where the lord acquires a peasant then they both fall in love, both ending up giving up their riches to be together.
September 3, 2013
I just loved it, so much!
December 4, 2013
3.5 Stars
I should disclose that any slavefic I read automatically gets compared to The Slave Breakers as that is the gold standard in my book. As the saying goes, Tony Romo ain't no Tom Brady. Oh wait, wrong terminology. I mean this ain't no Slave Breakers.
Initially, I thought Demetrie wasn't strict enough but, Holden wasn't exactly a disciplinarian so that seems hypocritical. Still, I have issues with a Master asking a slave whether or not he feels he deserves punishment. In the real world… maybe. In literary fiction world, said slave takes whatever punishment is doled out and thanks his Master for giving it. The end. Now, Sev does happily accept whatever punishment, don't let me lie to you but... something just didn't jive for me. What it all boils down to is, Sev's no Bran. Sev is sweet as sweet can be to Demetrie otherwise, he's a little too mouthy for me.
For the most part the secondary characters added nothing to the story aside from perpetuating the whole 'dreg-is-lower-than-an-animal' schtick until Michael was introduced. Michael, I wouldn’t mind reading more about particularly, how he fared after their interlude. I'm not sure if it was Ms. Black's intention but the Countess talked about dogs frequently and reminded me a little too much of…
o.O
It would've been nice to have some world building or at least more explanation of the caste system and its origins. The kinky bits were not bad but didn't light my fire either. The vocabulary was… odd. Not bad, per se, just unusual. And let me tell you, if you like oral, boy, are you gonna love this. Loads, I say. <---pun intended. The perspective changes seemed arbitrary and poorly demarcated. Generally, I had a hard time becoming engaged with this story and with these characters. The story, concept, and writing all show potential; I just didn’t lurve it.
I should disclose that any slavefic I read automatically gets compared to The Slave Breakers as that is the gold standard in my book. As the saying goes, Tony Romo ain't no Tom Brady. Oh wait, wrong terminology. I mean this ain't no Slave Breakers.
Initially, I thought Demetrie wasn't strict enough but, Holden wasn't exactly a disciplinarian so that seems hypocritical. Still, I have issues with a Master asking a slave whether or not he feels he deserves punishment. In the real world… maybe. In literary fiction world, said slave takes whatever punishment is doled out and thanks his Master for giving it. The end. Now, Sev does happily accept whatever punishment, don't let me lie to you but... something just didn't jive for me. What it all boils down to is, Sev's no Bran. Sev is sweet as sweet can be to Demetrie otherwise, he's a little too mouthy for me.
For the most part the secondary characters added nothing to the story aside from perpetuating the whole 'dreg-is-lower-than-an-animal' schtick until Michael was introduced. Michael, I wouldn’t mind reading more about particularly, how he fared after their interlude. I'm not sure if it was Ms. Black's intention but the Countess talked about dogs frequently and reminded me a little too much of…
o.O
It would've been nice to have some world building or at least more explanation of the caste system and its origins. The kinky bits were not bad but didn't light my fire either. The vocabulary was… odd. Not bad, per se, just unusual. And let me tell you, if you like oral, boy, are you gonna love this. Loads, I say. <---pun intended. The perspective changes seemed arbitrary and poorly demarcated. Generally, I had a hard time becoming engaged with this story and with these characters. The story, concept, and writing all show potential; I just didn’t lurve it.
December 9, 2013
Lovely characterization, except in the case of Demetrie. He felt distant, more than warranted by his role as Master. But Sev became flesh and blood on the page. The perfect slave, without being trained for it. Born to it, part of his DNA. Michael was painful to know, defined by this phrase: "I'll die a lonely man with the same hand of cards I started with."
The world building was just enough, never overwhelming. Athena depends on strict rules and roles, well-suited to keeping everything running smoothly, if only for those who conform. Every time the balance is lost, as in the case of Aubrey and Sev, the consequences are tragic.
A superbly sensual read. Judge for yourself. "Demetrie dipped his finger in his own drink and spread the sweet liqueur over Sev's upper lip. Watching Demetrie's face, Sev's pink tongue ran slowly over the wet amber shimmer. The flavor was like caramel. Demetrie was breathing through his mouth. "Yes, like that.""
For lovers of M/M BDSM, a stimulating read.
The world building was just enough, never overwhelming. Athena depends on strict rules and roles, well-suited to keeping everything running smoothly, if only for those who conform. Every time the balance is lost, as in the case of Aubrey and Sev, the consequences are tragic.
A superbly sensual read. Judge for yourself. "Demetrie dipped his finger in his own drink and spread the sweet liqueur over Sev's upper lip. Watching Demetrie's face, Sev's pink tongue ran slowly over the wet amber shimmer. The flavor was like caramel. Demetrie was breathing through his mouth. "Yes, like that.""
For lovers of M/M BDSM, a stimulating read.
July 3, 2013
1,5*
Sorry, but not my cup of coffee. While I'm not a fan of slave fiction I gave this one a try because of the overall good reviews. But this was just..., no no no. If nothing else I hate subs with low self esteem. And Sev's self esteem was so low you could say it was non-existent, even self destructiv. More a case for counseling. Sev's sudden leap into and attraction to BDSM has never been explained and I'm sorry, but Demetrie was far from beeing a good top. For gods sake he hurt Sev during Sex to the point of medical treatment being necessary. Repeatedly. Well, it's presented as Sev loved the pain but that's a no go for me.
And the twist in the end? It felt rather unbelievable. Why should Demetrie plan on something like that when he hasn't even admitted his own feelings for Sev. And there has never been any hint of social consciousness in Demetrie before this twist.
Sorry, but not my cup of coffee. While I'm not a fan of slave fiction I gave this one a try because of the overall good reviews. But this was just..., no no no. If nothing else I hate subs with low self esteem. And Sev's self esteem was so low you could say it was non-existent, even self destructiv. More a case for counseling. Sev's sudden leap into and attraction to BDSM has never been explained and I'm sorry, but Demetrie was far from beeing a good top. For gods sake he hurt Sev during Sex to the point of medical treatment being necessary. Repeatedly. Well, it's presented as Sev loved the pain but that's a no go for me.
And the twist in the end? It felt rather unbelievable. Why should Demetrie plan on something like that when he hasn't even admitted his own feelings for Sev. And there has never been any hint of social consciousness in Demetrie before this twist.
January 5, 2014
There is a beautiful exchange in this story of a Man who realizes hat he is and owns nothing at all and the thing that is most worthy in his life is a man who has sense of money, or power.
This story has been told before but not like this. The rythm of the story and the way the relationship proceeded was different from anything I have read.
I am sure that this love story will be hard to top.
This story has been told before but not like this. The rythm of the story and the way the relationship proceeded was different from anything I have read.
I am sure that this love story will be hard to top.
August 8, 2015
Lovely story about an aristocrat and his slave-boy and their HEA.
Great character development. I was invested in both of them and their future.
The sex was yummy.
The world building we good. I had a clear picture in my head of how this society worked.
Wonderful short story. And free as part of a previous years LOR event.
Great character development. I was invested in both of them and their future.
The sex was yummy.
The world building we good. I had a clear picture in my head of how this society worked.
Wonderful short story. And free as part of a previous years LOR event.
July 3, 2013
I was really apprehensive to read this story when I saw it was set in a dystopian world between Master and Slave.This is an amazing story and I am really glad I read it.The first story I have read from LHNB event and its already my favorite.Highly recommended.
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