The Cartel

The Apprentice #1

by E.G. Manetti

*** 2019 Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewer's Choice Award ***

Step into a universe where duty is a double-edged sword honed by passion. Love is not a battlefield—it is an entire galaxy.

She would give anything to protect her family… including her mind and body.

Lilian’s bright future was destroyed with a single, devastating stroke—her family name erased, their cartouche melted, and their property forfeited. Destitute and desperate, she is determined to survive and protect what remains of her family—no matter what she must do.


Lucius Mercio is the preeminent warrior of his cartouche, and the cartel it dominates; the Serengeti Group. Ruthless, clever, and ambitious, Lucius’ wealth, influence, and power are exceeded by few within the Twelve Systems. It is not sufficient. Lucius needs Lilian… and he needs her alive.


Lilian has agreed to become Lucius’ apprentice. For three years, he will train her for a position in the cartels. In return, Lilian will yield him absolute control of her mind and body. It is a bargain with the devil and one she hopes she does not regret.


Thrust together, the two will face a future filled with uncertainties. Lucius understands the dangers, but does Lilian?


Where duty and passion collide.

Publishers Note: This book contains explicit sexual content and is intended for adult audiences. A stand alone novel in series, it does not contain cliffhangers. It also does not have a 'Happily Ever After' ending - more of a 'Happily For Now.' Contains elements of D/s.

Genres: Science Fiction, Erotica, Romance, Fantasy, BDSM, Suspense, Ebooks

298 pages, ebook

First published November 29, 2012

About the author

I write from the world around me, and the world around me is full of color.

Award-winning author EG Manetti has always enjoyed a vivid imagination and occasional scribbling. Her epic science fiction series, The Twelve Systems Chronicles, blends the intrigue and danger of space opera with the passion and social rigidity of historical romance.

The ten-volume series began in 2012, with The Cartel: The Apprentice, Volume 1, and completed in 2021 with Thorn Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 3. The series has received four Paranormal Guild Reviewers Choice Awards, seven InD’tale RONE (Reward for Novel Excellence) nominations with five volumes award finalist badges. Shield Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 2 received the 2021 RONE for Science Fiction.

Elemental Fire: The Hidden Realms #1, her first venture into fantasy, combines her favorite aspects of urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and action/adventure genres.

A former information technology project manager, EG resides in Florida with her beloved (often confounded) husband and their severely OCD Jack Russell Terrier. She writes as often as possible, cooks exceptionally, and gardens adequately.

The Twelve Systems Chronicles are epic science fiction romance that blends elements of space opera with the intrigue and suspense of a political thriller. “With characters that jump off the page, love that is forbidden yet unstoppable mixed with top-notch worlds and technology, sci-fi has never looked so good or become so addictive!” ~ InD'Tale Magazine, February 2018.

Enter The Twelve Systems with a free copy of The Cartel

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Reviews

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Star

This is like the slightly sci-fi/dystopian version of the contemporary 'alpha CEO' with a dominant/submissive vibe romance stories. Only in this case, the CEO leads a cartel (which in this slightly sci-fi world it's more of a co-ruling business group, not a crime ring). Oh, and the heroine is sort of temporarily a literal slave (aka 'apprentice') to the cartel leader, complete with sex requirements. In this world apparently it's totally accepted as a way of paying off 'debts'. Messed up, but it's shown as somewhat consensual in this book. It's hard to explain. But it wasn't particularly disturbing until I found out the guy is happily married with children, granted with extenuating circumstances, but still !

The good parts:
- smexy times (if you ignore the dubious consent at times)
- corporate intrigue plot that has some open ends that will lead into the next book presumably
- heroine is intelligent and she gets to show that off
- heroine has platonic friendships, including the opposite sex
- part of the the heroine's family is still alive, imagine that?!

The 'meh' parts:
- You can totally skip the intro faux-history paragraphs that each chapter starts off with (once you get past the "apprentice" rules), they are completely unnecessary to the story
- the language is oddly formal like something you would expect to see in a legit historical romance. There's no usage of 'ye' or anything like that, but the slight language difference is still definitely there. I'm not completely sold on it, but it is an interesting choice, I will give it that much.
- the sci-fi setting is pretty weak so don't got into this expecting much depth in that department

Overall: I actually enjoyed this. I'll definitely pick up the next book. Thanks TJ for the review/rec that put this book on my radar!

[Melanie A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

UPDATE: The entire series is now complete! What an incredible journey!

Book 1 ====> 5 STARS
Book 2 ====> 4 STARS
Book 3 ====> 5 STARS
Book 4 ====> 5 STARS
Book 5 ====> 5+ STARS
Book 6 ====> 4.5 STARS
Book 7 ====> 4 STARS
Book 8 ====> 4 STARS
Book 9 ====> 4 STARS
Book 10 ====> 4.5 STARS

*****************************
5 STARS!!

"No one, no matter how clever or disciplined, can truly give over his or her will to another."

Holy hell! If you're into high fantasy/sci-fi erotica, this is the book for you. I LOVED it!

Crazy kudos to EG Manetti who has crafted an incredible, multi-layered, autocratic world full of corruption, greed, and abuse of power - one that seems to be embraced by all for its stability.

Here's the premise from which the story begins:

That Lilian did not follow her father to the Final Draught and end her life in contrition for her corrupt genetics has branded the young woman a coward as well as a criminal.

Instead of ending her life for her father's crimes, Lilian becomes an 'apprentice' to one of the most powerful men in the Twelve Galaxies, Lucius Mercurio. For three years she will be his indentured servant in ALL things.

The key to the success of this story was definitely its heroine. Lilian was a resilient survivor who, as a genius/prodigy in analytics, is not wanted by Lucius first and foremost for her body, but for her mind. Her struggles to adapt to her new life held me completely in thrall . . . and her struggles were many.

Honestly, I don't even know where to start or how to organize this review. The complexity of the story was overwhelming in such a good way. I guess in point form . . .

1) Lilian's sexual relationship with Lucius: twisted yet 'justified'. Its genius stems from their society's structure which made it acceptable - to both of them. The lack of romance in the story didn't bother me at all - I prefer to think of it as a sex-filled slow burn. :D

2) The corporate espionage: riveting.

3) Lilian's role as a reviled pariah: heartbreaking.

4) The overarching social issues: so interesting. The injustice, the corruption, the abuse of power, the distribution of wealth, economic monopoly, greed, autocratic rule, and of course, slavery. All of it is accepted as the price of stability by the MC's, but there are rumblings running through the narrative, and I very much look forward to their development over the course of this very long series.

The followers of the Universal Way are uniformly opposed to the practice [of indentured servitude.] Their faith maintains that it damages the fabric of the individual - both servant and master - and the fabric of the universe.

5) Lucius himself. He is very much a product of his environment and made for a very solid character. Lilian describes him like this:

"Devious, selfish, clever, ruthless, demanding. Not kind."

His relationship with Lilian - as far as he understands it - is superficial at this point. But the author offers up little pieces of his deeper self now and again which set the groundwork for their future.

There is a big DNF trigger for many of you in this book: Lucius is married. This DIDN'T bother me in the context of the story....here is my explanation if you are interested: His wife suffers from a degenerative disease and is not interested in sex. She not only knows about Lilian, but encourages her presence in her husband's life. Lilian is Lucius's first apprentice as he loves his wife and has honored his vows to her up to this point. Within the context of this corrupt society, Lucius' devotion to his wife is very unusual as is his never having had an apprentice.

Overall, I could not put this book down. It was unique, well-written, and it completely sucked me in. I definitely recommend!

[Rain · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is like a science fiction Downton Abbey, with a sexual slant.

The story begins with apprentice Lillian going to meet Monsignor Lucius (Milord). Lillian has chosen to be his apprentice, Trial by Ordeal (indentured servant/sex slave) for the next three years. In exchange, she will be able to support her younger sister and mother.

Story components:
Power imbalances on multiple levels
Incredible world, culture, and character building
Non-romantic graphic M/F sex
Each chapter begins with ancient texts
Multiple religions and cultural beliefs
Complex mixing of political intrigue, espionage and ancient rituals
This book is labeled as bdsm/erotica but its more lite D/s.

At first, this book pissed me off. Then it confused me. Then I was so utterly absorbed into the world, and these characters that I couldn’t stop reading. This is such an intelligently written story.

There is no romance here. There is duty, there are rules upon rules with structures that must be followed.

I was shocked to learn mid-way into the story that not only is Lillian, Lucius’ first apprentice and first sexual encounter in over a year, but he is married with grown children!! He and his wife share a deep love, but for medical reasons she is unable to be intimate with him and has encouraged him to take an apprentice. This did slightly upset my dreamy plans for this duo, but who knows with the rest of the series will bring. I remain romantically optimistic.

What kept me reading this story was the character of Lillian. She is incorruptible, always wanting to follow the letter of the law, and choosing what’s right over the easy path. She is genuinely likable, and finds a way to land on her feet despite all that has been thrown her way. And tbh, the sex was pretty hot as well.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5. This book is hard to read because the writing is so formal and a little confusing sometimes. But is really good. Sincerely I’m tired to read more. Unfortunately.

[Celestine · Rating 5 out of 5]

E.G. Manetti's The Cartel: The Apprentice Volume 1 tells the story of Monsignor Lucius and Apprentice Lilian. He is the very ambitious leader of a commerce sect intent on moving his cartel up the proverbial ladder of power. She is the eldest, disgraced daughter of a similarly powerful elite, who chooses indentured servitude over death in payment for her father's sins. What keeps this book a page turner are the subtle hints that Lucius has high expectations and certain lucrative plans for the very, very bright Lilian. To determine if she is right for his machinations, he must test her will and resiliency, along with her analytical aptitude.

As the story opens, Lilian is arriving to meet Lucius and begin day one of her three years of familial penance. Immediately, he asserts his dominance, both in will and physical intimacy, setting up a theme that will be carefully and laboriously maintained throughout the book. Because Lilian is very personally restrained, tutored to act honorably since birth, and part of a stratified society with strict codes of conduct, any subtle display of emotion or exuberance is magnified. A reader watches for it carefully. Manetti has trained us well. Youthful Lilian is formidable in all ways, but she is approachable because she is without guile and subterfuge. Her purpose is to serve Lucius, and ultimately the cartel. Her wits make her invaluable and a target.

This book is categorized as science fiction and romance. Oddly, I don't see it as either, though there are influences. In most ways, I feel this book is a fantasy. Manetti has crafted a highly stylized and detailed society. The bulk of the book is infused with satisfying the norms of the culture and the mystery of a commerce fraud within the cartel. It is science fiction, apparently, because it takes place in space and there are outer colonies. There are also some futuristic and alternative technologies, but make no mistake, the focus of this book is on the society and not the gadgets or space travel. As regards the romance tag, throw out all your expectations of the role of sex in society. The strictures of the cartel are such that romance has no relevance, yet sex is a regularly indulged pastime with its own hierarchical rules. It is shocking how infrequently this book dips into moments of tender regard. Lucius regards Lilian as a possession, and often treats her as such. She expects nothing different. Romance readers may be disappointed that it is revealed quite a ways into the book that Lucius is married and has children, although his sexual relationship with his apprentice is tacitly approved by the invalid wife and there is no doubt he feels more than lust for Lilian. But weirdly there is hope.

It is due to the amazing talent of the author that the briefest of moments can carry weight, emotion, and significance. The narrative has a quiet tone, yet the ability to appall and amaze. Although the book does not end in a totally frustrating cliffhanger, there is no sense of closure. I will be reading book two of this atmospheric, hypnotic, strangely formal series. This was definitely one of the most unusual and stylistically memorable books I've read in the past twelve months.

[Renegade ♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 to 4 1/2 stars

"Discover a means." This from Lilian. "That is what we call it, the Apprentice Protocol. Thirty-six strictures and they all equate to the same stricture. Do not ask, do not complain, discover a means."



This is a fascinating and often uncomfortable tale, which is written in a rather unique style that took me some time to become accustomed to. Once I adapted, I came to better appreciate the characters, the depth and intricacy of the world building, as well as the complex societal and relationship dynamics.

The heroine, Lilian, is an apprentice to Lucius Mercio (addressed by her only as 'milord') which makes her his property, mentally, physically and sexually. The fact that she does find pleasure and escape in his arms makes her circumstances more bearable/acceptable to her, but had she hated it and/or he been brutal or a monster in disguise, her life and her choices are still dictated by another person under threat of punishment and possible death.

Though I was relieved that she experienced moments of kindness, support and understanding along the way (amidst constant harassment and public persecution), it doesn't change the fact that any and all forms of slavery push my buttons big time. And though one could argue that she agreed to this, I would argue that choices like these are no choice at all:

"Should you ask her, Trevelyan, I believe Lilian will tell you she far prefers this path to her other alternative."

"A pretty choice for a girl of twenty-four, Trial by Ordeal or death for crimes not her own." Trevelyan's tone is equally sharp.

"This is an old argument and one where neither of us will be swayed." Lucius ends the discussion without heat. His spymaster's views are well known to Lucius.

Lucius is a very powerful man who has plans and secrets of his own that Lilian is not privy to. My feelings towards him are mixed to say the least. I acknowledge that had he been a different kind of man (or had she been apprenticed to someone else), things could have been so much worse for her and she would have had no say in the matter. But Lilian is at his mercy until she proves her bond over a period of years. The author did her job because I was certainly not detached from Lilian's experiences or from my ambivalence towards Lucius. Let me be clear that this is not a romance. The fact of the matter is that Lucius is married with children. Although he admires and likes Lilian, is often intrigued and even confounded by her, at the end of the day, she was acquired for a purpose and he currently views her as his property. I cannot say if this aspect will change in future as there are many more books to come.

I found myself rooting for Lilian whose indentured status and constant trials were a source of frustration for me as she did what was necessary for the good of her family and for her own survival. Despite her brilliance and persistent diligence, she made understandable mistakes along the way, and I found myself worrying right along with her about what the consequences might be. Her friend, Chrys, gives her words of wisdom after she errs that help to bring her some comfort on this score:

"Minor violations of will are corrected with rebuke and mayhap humiliation. It is impossible to avoid such. No one, no matter how clever or disciplined, can truly give over his or her will to another."

Certain of Lilian's attention, Chrys continues. "The system is devised to be be so. Impossible. Minor transgressions against will, offer the opportunity to reinforce the apprentice bond. [...]"

Listening to Chrys, the sick knot that has lodged in Lilian's midsection since midday begins to loosen. Finally, Lillian whispers, "I did put my will before monsignor's."

Chrys' response is gentle. "Of course you did. You must. You cannot manage a day otherwise. That is why it is impossible. Think you they know it not? It will become easier with time."

Chrys' quiet confidence and assurance eases Lilian's spirit.

The fact that she is innocent of the crimes she is being punished for is irrelevant in this society. I struggled with this and the fact that she was persecuted for the sins of her father. There are many cruel and unfair aspects to this society, regardless of the explanations given for them. Those with power or in higher positions are able to get away with far more than they should (a reflection of our own reality).

So, whenever the balance actually shifted in Lilian's favor (or in favor of those in similar positions/circumstances), it provided a sense of relief, justice and triumph (as well as some occasionally delicious vengeance) to the equation that I was thankful for.

It is made clear that life is not always fair and that we have to work with what we're given, but that doesn't mean I have to like it. Still, there are moments of light, moving interactions, spaces and places where we are privy to the goodness of people in the face of so much unkindness, and that creates hope. For Lilian and for those like her.

It is that hope for her (to see her way clear of the challenges in this role, to achieve her eventual freedom, etc.) that all but guarantees I will read the next book in this series.

[SusanAhh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Courage

I thoroughly enjoyed this read and it is not even a genre to which I am normally drawn. Being open to reading anything and everything when given a bit of nudge can yield some wonderful surprises in life. This is a writer’s debut effort of not simply an independently published book, which is an out-of-this-world story sprinkled with eroticism; but, the creation of another world with its own unique history, customs, a manner of speaking, goals and aims, even deities and creeds, saga that progresses through a series of books, seven of them, by my count.

The writer starts you off with an outline of the society in the world you are about to enter. Before each action chapter is writing from ancient texts which flesh out the picture as you read through the story. There is also a comprehensive reference at the end of the book. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about this new world in a new imaginary place formed from the experience of our own universe. Similar but entirely different. The characters, for the most part, are endowed with human emotions, fears, and advanced intelligence. Therefore, they become more and more relatable as you read through the book.

Not to forget that there is plenty of hot, hot…inventively hot...sex between the Hero, Lucius and the heroine, Lillian. What? We know what makes this world go ‘round and apparently it makes the “Twelve Systems” hum…this and ambition, greed, power. Although, it is not all bad. Despite the fact they have an almost religious class-based system, there is the “American” ideal that if you work hard enough and smart enough you can achieve a great deal of wealth and power. Also, cleverly, Ms. Manetti has included an alternative to the dogma of classes and the warrior code.

This “warrior code” has determined that Lillian must forsake her former elevated status as a warrior and become a bond slave to one of the most powerful warriors, Lucius Mercio. She is suffering this misfortune not because of any wrongdoing on her part but because of the “sins of her father”. Yet, Lillian will always be a warrior at heart. It is endearing to see how carefully, almost painfully she follows the new rules of the system she has been placed.

Lucius is written as the enigmatic (I really tried to resist this alliteration 😂) luscious Alpha male. We often hear his thoughts but usually after we are surprised by the interaction between Lillian and him. A nice effect.

While this is a series, this first book was a complete episode unto itself well written in the third person while the reader hears the thoughts of both Lillian and Lucius…although we mostly hear from Lillian's POV. There is even a gem of wisdom that I tucked into my mental pocket, and this has to do with the courage to humble oneself in service to their loved ones and/or the greater good.

You see Lillian had a choice when it was determined she and her sister were disgraced by their father’s misdeeds. She could have accepted painless suicide or become a bond slave with no status and derided by society for this “fall from grace”.

“‘It is hard to go from giving orders to taking them, from having servants to doing for oneself. It is beyond difficult to yield control of one’s will to another, to have small transgressions carry severe penalties. It is humiliating to be treated as nothing by those who once honored one. It is unpleasant to be viewed as a coward. In the end, the reward is commoner status and the opportunity to improve one’s circumstances.’
It is not difficult to comprehend why many would choose not to face such a trial and why they pretend that they have chosen the more courageous path.’” – Lillian

Lillian chose her path because of her love for her little sister with hopes of keeping her safe, picking up the pieces of their former life and moving onto a better future. This takes real courage. There is a beauty in this courage that is an example for us all.

I look forward to the development of the Lucius/Lillian (Master/slave) dynamic unfolding and more examples of Lillian's brilliance and inner light and goodness vanquishing the darker competing forces against her and her allies as the saga continues.

My wholehearted thank you to E.G. Manetti for the book. This was a phenomenal May Book of the Month, BOTM read with the dynamic discussion group on Goodreads, “Some Like it Hot!”



Some Like It Hot! May 2019 BOTM Discussion Link

[〰️Beth〰️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will admit it took some time to be drawn into this book. The world building is fantastic, but I can see where some readers would start the book then have difficulty with the mid 16th and 17th word usage. At times it bogged me but I held on. If not for the hints at planets and worlds one would think this is a well crafted Middle Ages story but in set in high rise buildings.

This is a wonderful baseworld to jump the series off into other worlds that are part of the system

The character development is done with a deft hand. Layers of Lillian are slowly peeled away. Monsignor shows many emotions and there are hints but no answers to why he wanted Lillian as his associate.

The indentured servant expected to provide sexual favors is as old as social groups forming. This has some interesting moments were we get to see the two grow together. The minor characters are as interesting as the main players.

My only drawback is I think readers assume they see space action when this sets the series up a court drama, and AI do not mean CSI or modern court but something akin to 16th Century Fedual lords. Those brave enough to get comfortable with this interesting world E.G. has created are I for a treat. There is the petty intrigue, the major intrigue, the whole concept of bonded people and friendships that form in such environments.

Hopefully book two will allow more outer space settings for those diehards who want sexy well written works set in space.

[Rachel Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4.5 Stars, rounded up to 5)

Ms. Manetti's world building is heckin impressive. Like, "I wanna pick this author's brain about her outlining skills" impressive. Everything about the Twelve Systems, from its layered history to multiple religions to complex social structure among the people who reside there has been built from scratch. And it's important that you keep that in mind as you read; this is not our world.

Though their society is far more technologically advanced than that of present-day Earth, the Twelve Systems' commercial Cartels that run this world (along with the Governing Council) are more like quasi-monarchical capitalistic authoritarian(ish) entities than what we would call "companies" or "conglomerates". And Lucius Mercio oversees his own powerful Cartouche, Blooded Dagger, like some "devious, clever, ruthless, demanding" king we might recognize from Earth's past. Actually, "oversee" isn't quite the right word. Our hero pretty much rules the place.

This power dynamic between Lucius and the heroine Lilian is why I urge readers to remember this isn't our world. This is a world where humans can choose to be kept as property in exchange for things such as ensuring a better life for yourself and loved ones back home, to Lilian's situation--an alternative to "The Final Draught", or execution by poison as punishment for the crimes of her late father.

You may be asking, "What say you?? I thought this was a romance!" And to that I would explain, the series may evolve more into love story territory as it progresses, but in book one, its genre is more along the lines of high brow Sci-Fi Erotica.

"She owns not the slightest understanding of nuance or custom." -- Lucius spoke this of Lilian, but it could be said for me as well. I've always been wary of power imbalances between heroes and heroines, so I'll admit that I was hesitant to even consider warming up to Lucius. Some revelations and certain actions as I got to know him made me feel even colder toward the preeminent warrior, or "milord" as he is to be referred to by Lilian. But the author managed something quite remarkable. As "nuance" and "custom" about the Twelve Systems is revealed to the reader, my frustrations and all-around saltiness toward Monsignor Mercio thawed considerably. As Lilian does, I also began to look forward to the times she was to attend to milord. ;) And this is some feat, considering I tend to balk at anything even close to BDSM territory. Which this technically isn't, but the D/s elements are most definitely there.

In addition to the sexy sexytimes, there's also an intricate mystery involving industrial espionage and sabotage. Intrigue that came to light thanks to the very clever and ever-resourceful Lilian. The corporate conflict that plays out serves as a successful counterbalance to the many erotic scenes between Lucius and Lilian, and along with strong secondary characters, made for a read that I know will stick with me for some time.

Here's milord, btw...

[TJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this book only because I needed to read book 3 in this series for work and didn't want to jump into it without reading it's predecessors first. What I found was both disturbing and amazing, so... This is going to be a totally bi-polar review. There are 5 star points and 1 star points - no in-between.

The 5 star aspect - the writing! YIKES, it is AMAZING! The world Ms. Manetti created is both intricate and layered while never becoming overdone. The politics, the society, the people are all superbly portrayed and brought to life - not an easy task in science fiction. So often, one aspect will falter at the expense of another. Not so here. The balance is perfect. I was completely blown away by this accomplishment.

The characters are also a huge 5 star for me. Lillian is such a rich character and one that is well worth continuing this entire series for. But, all the others are just as intriguing and well thought out. There is an ingrained understanding that the author exhibits for every single personality written. This also bodes extremely well as future books are read. I am extremely interested in seeing how they develop and grow!

The 1 star aspect. I HATED the subject matter of Lillian forced into becoming a "bond servant" and it's execution. Lilian has the choice of being executed or becoming an "apprentice" (ei: slave) of Lucias Mercio, a very powerful Cartel leader. In order to save her own life she must give him complete control of her body, her will, her life. What follows is a story full of her complete sexual subjugation. He takes her whenever, wherever and however he chooses. He can use her and do anything and she can't complain or faces death. It's horrid, disturbing and very hard to read. The fact that the author does such an exquisite job of portraying Lilian makes it even worse. We feel for her, we like her and we want her to overcome.

Of course, I'll continue - partly because I see that subsequent books don't carry the sexual warning so I'm hoping that aspect lessons and partly because every other aspect of the story is completely enthralling!

[Z-squared · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an intriguing genre-blender. It's as if the writers of Battlestar Galactica were sitting around at a cocktail party one evening, griping jealously about the success of Game of Thrones, and decided to write a series that capitalized on the class-obsessed Downton Abbey craze, centered on a tragic Harry Potter-esque underdog, and took place in a House of Cards-style Machiavellian interstellar empire. And because it was for HBO, they were sure to include lots of vaguely BDSM-ish sex.

Because, reasons.

The result is oddly compelling, and I gave myself a book hangover staying up too late to finish this. Don't let the other reviews fool you, though. This book has more in common with erotica than romance. The (very) graphic sex is all non-consensual, there isn't even a hint of true affection (much less love) between the main characters in any of their encounters, and the hero, Mercio, is married. Happily. To a woman well aware of and totally in support of him keeping a sex slave/apprentice.

Because, reasons.

Sure, sure, it's part of the worldbuilding, and Mercio expends a fair amount of time, money, and political capitol protecting the heroine, Lilian, from a truly grim fate. Thanks to his efforts, she is allowed to thrive, and it's clear that he has nothing but respect for her brilliance. But... yeah, romance? Nope nope nope. In point of fact, this is epic scifi in the traditional sense, and all the sex is frankly distracting. I can't help but wonder how this book would work if it took a more fade-to-black approach.

So, aside from the squicky sex, Lilian was a pretty decent heroine. Very Spartan, in the Classic sense of that word. She is the polar opposite of TSTL, and her travails make for an engrossing underdog story. Her journey is what kept me turning the pages, despite meandering plotlines, poor grammar, and overly affected speech patterns. In fact, it took me about 25% of the book to finally start to read each page without stumbling every few sentences through the overly elaborate, stilted, and typo-ridden writing. But it's worth the slog, and if you can train your brain to deal with it, this is an intriguing read for those of you who can leave romantic expectations at the door.

[Jess · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at 37%. This book was completely different than the blurb led me to believe (why oh why did I not read a sample?! I picked this up on sale..) and it was so incredibly dull. In fact, it was so uninspiring that I forgot the heroine's name after I put this down last night before going to sleep. The scifi elements were few, space travel and asteroid mining were mentioned but not that incredibly vital to the plot. Such a shame, because some of the world building definitely had potential.

The plot
With the blurb all being about "blah blah disgraced warrior bound to serve another warrior in order to redeem herself", I was hoping for some hot and heavy, physical action and fighting. I was thinking of something along the lines of the excellent Into the Badlands, or our heroine being placed in the fighting squad of some intergalactic cartel / yakuza / mafia, whatever and having to risk her life on a daily basis to redeem herself as worthy. Instead, what I got was an futuristic R&D department with D/s relationships between the management and the workers. Yes, the setting within the cartels and the houses was really interesting and I did like the small glimpses we got of our heroine's family but that was not enough for me to keep going. The general setup had a lot of potential but everything else was just so underwhelming.

The characters
Boring as fuck. Our heroine Lillian is supposed to be a warrior and a prodigy in her area of technical analysis. For the entire first third of the book, we get exactly one glimpse of her former warrior self - she wants to draw her - now missing - sword during an early situation. Two other scenes hint at physical fitness and that was. fucking. it. Our hero Lucius Mercio is supposed to be the top dog in his cartel, one of the most powerful men in the universe and he has as much charm as a wet towel. Apart from banging the heroine almost every time he sees her (two sex scenes within the first 12% of the story totally set the tone for this), he does fuckall (har har) except for looking at his slate or out of the window. He has zero character and I cannot decide who out of our two leads is more boring. Probably him. Captain Cardboard is the dom in their flat and totally unarousing relationship which had me desperately hoping for some steam or emotional connection or just anything apart from "milord satisfied her, it was more than she had hoped for", unghhhhh. Also, on a more personal note, the age difference totally squicked me out - Lucius is 48 and Lillian is 24 and yes yes, everybody is a (consenting, I guess..) adult here but whatever happened to half you age + 7? This was kinda gross, especially considering their power imbalance. And I just read in other reviews that the hero is apparently married and does not plan to divorce? WTF. This considerably lessens my opinion of him.



The writing
Fucking present tense, man. I could not warm to the style of writing. I mean, I saw what the author was trying to do with the stiff and formal phrases the characters used but the strange expressions combined with present tense just did not work for me. The writing came across as overly simplistic and it was very jarring at times. Lillian's inner monologue was also very annoying, milord this and milord that, whenver she wasn't reciting her mantra of honour to herself. Blaaaaaaaaaargh.



I did not hate this book as outright as Gabriel's Ghost but man, it was not what I wanted and underwhelming, too. Do not recommend.

[Laz the Sailor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I re-read the entire 7-book trilogy over the past few weeks. I originally read it as the books were published, but reading them all in a row helped me keep track of the myriad characters. They interweave in a complex pattern, but never go astray. The plot seems complicated, but it actually quite linear. The language and pacing is wonderful. The sexy bits are short and hot and not crude in any way.

If you love scifi, and you are an adult, read this. And you won't have to wait for the next installment.

[Debra Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Purchase Amazon March 13, 2019
The Cartel by E.G. Manetti
Genres: Adult, Erotica, Mystery, Romance, Sci-fi, Suspense
3.5 Stars

One of the most intricate books I have ever read.
It definitely stretched my intelect to the limit.
I started this book in July 2019 and the first 20+ pages had me considering dnf'ing. I put it aside and came back to it a few times.
I picked it back up in earnest January 12th, 2020.

The world build is the main problem with this book. It is over elaborate & makes it difficult to read due to the complexities of the culture and system(s) these people live in. The way they speak, their dialog is all very constrained. Stilted and excessively 'well mannered'. All of this has a medieval feel to it. However, these people are Not medieval. It is just their speech and culture that gives it that feel.
They are very 'commercial' or 'corporate' driven.

I hate long reviews, so while I have a lot I would like to say, I am going to cut my rambling short.
Here is a few vital points that I think are important.

1. Steamy adult erotic scenes.
2. Loaded with intrigue, suspense and mysteries.
3. Very interesting and fascinating characters.
3. It could have been better, but it got me hooked enough that I Will be exploring the next book in the series.
4. HEA/HFN? Well, that is in the eye of the reader. While it ends on a positive note, this is considered 'Chronicles'. Which means it is very much like a 'serial'.
While I was very satisfied with the ending, I consider it an HFN.
5. There are a couple of typos. Not many, but because of the complexity of speech, they stood out.

[Iza Brekilien · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was surprised. This book caught me unaware.

First because I expected a more "sci-fi" book than that. Apart from the different culture and references, this could take place on Earth, give or take a few details.

Second because when she met Lucius, I expected... well, romance, then found a slave/master relationship (which I hate), then a more or less CEO/assistant relationship (he's married with children, you should know), and a society where women can be slaves to married men and men can be slaves to women (I'd love to know if Rachelle is married, too). Stuff I generally don't like to read about.

When I realized that, I thought I'd drop the book, but something made me stick to it : Lilian is weird when confronted to an emotional situation (she recites rules in her head to steady herself, like she has post-traumatic stress disorder - I like weird people), she doesn't like to display or feel emotions, there's a story behind all this about her capabilities and I'd love to know more, Lucius is not quite as much a bastard as he would appear, there is a friendship between a man and a woman (it's worth noticing because it rarely happens). And so on.

Conclusion : I started the book (which I bought 5 years ago, when I grabbed every freebie/cheap book I could find - I'm cleaning out my e-reader) expecting one thing, found another that I thought I would hate and finally... I got caught up. Hooked. I need the rest. I couldn't pinpoint why exactly : not just because of Lilian's personality, not just because of the hot sex, not just because of the plot (what's really going on and will Lucius overcome his enemies - I bet he will). It's the sum of all that and something more that I can't really put my finger on. But the result is this : I'm *hooked* ! Kudos to the author, I'm off buying the next :)

[Alice Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally! Erotic science fiction with real characters and a well-considered plot. If, like me, you've been lost in the desert of fembots and Gor-wannabes that's out there, searching for an oasis of logic and brainy steam, look no further.

[Judy Goodwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. It took me a couple chapters to get used to the writing style and the intense history of the world, with each chapter prefaced by an excerpt from a historical account of the "Twelve Systems," the current ruling governments. This book is a mixture of science fiction and erotica, in the tradition of the old Gor novels or Anne Rice's "Sleeping Beauty" series (though not quite as racy). Expect a lot of world building but also a lot of romance and sex, with a healthy dose of domination and submission.

Society in the future has become rigid and formal after a period of bloody anarchy to where duty and honor rule above all else. There are shadows of Japanese culture in the book and a firm caste system where justice is not always served because those of the lower caste have no voice or rights, and are basically property. Once a member of the highest caste, Lillian finds herself dishonored by her father's crimes and thrust into the lowest caste, basically a slave. She then tries to survive and thrive by her wits and her hard work.

I think the writing quality was good once you become acclimated to the stiffness of the style, which fits the stiff traditions of the world. Manetti's world-building is excellent, with all aspects considered. This futuristic vision is more sociological than technological, so don't expect any big starship fights or laser beams. From start to finish, Lillian faces trial after trial, threatening her future and the futures of her mentally unstable mother and young innocent sister. I think there's a good overall message of perseverance.

[Emma Jaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This tale centres on ambition, political manoeuvring and physical release in a highly stratified society based on formality and strict honour rules. The characters and language used are rather stiff and formal, but they fits perfectly in the world described, although working out the connections between the ranks and multiple characters is a little tricky at times, the list of characters at the end would have been more useful in a paperback, but as an ebook, I didn't realise it was there till I finished the book.
The male lead 'exploits' his female bonded apprentice in every way, both physically and mentally, although being his 'apprentice' protects her (mostly) from the wrath of a society bent on punishing her for the sins of her father.
Sex scenes are quick and frequent, but well written and they definitely added significant spice to what would have otherwise been a rather dry political intrigue and fraud discovery based plot.

[Joleene Naylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to her traitorous father, Lillian and her family have been shamed. Though society expects her to drink the final draught and commit suicide to restore her family's honor, she chooses to endure trial by ordeal - which includes her being apprenticed to a "family" in the Cartel. But being an apprentice isn't just about learning. While she's under her bond her lord owns her mind, soul, and body, and she is his to do what he pleases with. In all ways. And he does. A lot.

There are a lot of sex scenes in this book, though none of them use the "cruder" words you often see in erotica. Beyond the sex is an interesting plot involving vistrite, a mineral used in technology, and Lilian's discovery of a counterfeiting operation.

The characters were interesting, and the world was very detailed and well fleshed out with a complete history. A Who is who chart in the back along with a glossary could be useful if you get lost along the way.

[Nicci · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven’t been as fully engaged in a story of this magnitude in a long time. The world building is complex and extraordinary. The level of the details the author employed to tell the story, the development of the Twelve System, a warrior society with its traditions and scriptures, and to throw in erotica is amazing.

We have Lilian, who becomes an Apprentice through the dreadful acts of her father. The father’s crimes send him to the Final Draught. By law, his family should have endured the same punishment but the mechanism of Preeminence Lucius saves them. Lilian is his to do what is his will.

As Lilian would describe Lucius, “clever, clever, devious, remarkable man”. Lucius is head of the Serengeti Group of the Blooded Dagger Cartouche. He aspires to something greater for his cartel. He would do what is necessary to get there. Meantime he enjoys the fruit of having Lilian, the Apprentice.

The Twelve System is a world where honor is revered; deceitfulness will endanger your life. As with any society build on restriction and a code of conduct, there are those who seek to operate outside the boundaries for their own gain. There are those who are less fortunate. Then there’s the elite, the descendant of the first families. The warrior class who has the power to control, manipulate, and the power to bestow kindness.

The Cartel: The Apprentice is the first book in series. There is no HEA. The romance is not a true romance with candy and flowers. This book will setup the worldview and characterizations for the future installments. There are more questions than answers. As much as I enjoyed reading this first book, I’m hoping we will have significant resolution to the big questions in the installments.

Highly recommended to Science Fiction fans who doesn’t mind their stories laced with steamed erotica. Be aware, the erotica is written well done.

[Brian Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the world building to be the most impressive aspect of this solid book.

The author drew a convincing and tight depiction of the rules, customs, protocols and traditions of this world. It never felt contrived, always real. And this reality is a suffocating one. The society Manetti constructed is a formalistic and controlled one. Most of the control has been internalized by the characters, with self-censorship dominating social interactions. Manetti did an admirable job in exploring this self-censorship in the most intimate social expressions of the self, sex. Lust and desire collide with self-repression, which Manetti develops through the evolving relationship between the two main characters, Lucius and Lilian.

I must say I did not expect this book to contain erotica. So I was surprised by the first sex scene, which does not hold back any detail. By the third sex scene I looked up the book’s category on Amazon!

The sex is not gratuitous, in that it is an important mechanism for exploring the issues I outlined above. If erotica bothers you, then you should not read this book. If you seek intelligent erotica, then start reading “The Cartel” now!

The story moves slowly. People who desire a deeper more nuanced exploration of a new world will enjoy this book.

Brian

[Chappy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is really well written with so much depth and intricate detail. It took me a while to get used to the formal and strange language. It takes place so far in the future that it makes sense that the language evolved.

I'm pretty sure these people are human but is one of the systems our solar system? Or has the human race move so far out into the universe that Earth is simply forgotten. I was confused with all the references to the Warriors and their mythology on how they created the 12 systems. I think it will make more sense as I continue to read the series.

I liked Lilian and could empathize with her situation. She is able to adapt to her new situation and uses her intellect to help her Monsignor. Lucius is still growing on me. He thinks of Lilian as his possession but I think deep down, he respects her and his feelings are changing. It was hard for me to adjust to the fact that Lucius has a wife and grown children.

[Charina❁♡✾ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I must admit, I struggled at first trying to familiarize myself with the terminology and the formal-style writing. Greatly appreciated the Character List at the beginning and Glossary at the end of the book. The Cartel is well written with intricate details about the Twelve Systems and its societal structures. Truly blown away!! Awesome plot!! Thoroughly enjoyed the D/s relationship between Lucius and Lilian. This is not my typical book genre, however I look forward to reading the second part in the series. Well done, E.G. Manetti

[Hazel · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first intro to this genre and it took me by surprise. It’s not all about aliens and space! This story features humans in a different system of planets and their customs and practices. Great relationships are established between friends, family and lovers. There is mystery, intrigue and suspense that I hope some of which will be resolved in the next book.

A great surprise read for me as I hadn’t expected to enjoy it so much. It’s nice to venture outside your comfort zone every once in a while.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read! Totally imaginative with amazing characters. Lillian is an unexpected force full of surprises and ability. Totally engrossing journey she is thrown into. I loved the world. It's history and it's culture. But forgetting tall hat, this is a super steamy fun page turner. Very original and engaging. I highly recommend!

[Summer Raines · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intricate & Well-written

I purchased this for a book club read... & got my money's worth!

This wouldn't be a normal pick for me, but I couldn't stop turning pages to find out what happened next.

I enjoyed the author's ability to weave new insights into this intricate world's customs throughout the story.

I'll be buying more books in the series to see how life unfolds for Lilian!

[Lance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine, if you will, being punished for the sins of your father...
After his criminal actions have earned him his final draught, you and your immediate family must also be punished in the eye of society. In this world it is not enough to be shamed by the memory and realization that your own father broke the law and was put to death. Now, you are a criminal as well.
You may choose the same fate as your fallen parent or a trial by ordeal. If you favor the latter of these punishments then you are stripped of your previous honor and standing in society and are forced to become the property of another-to be their servant in all manners and at the whim of their sexual desires.
Honor endures.
Lillian finds herself in this very situation. Now apprentice to Lucius, the head of the Serengeti Cartel, she must serve her master to her utmost abilities-always putting his needs above her own. All the while, she is the target of scrutiny and public ridicule, being referred to as 'doxy'-basically a sex slave or whore.
E.G. Manetti is a master world builder. The writer has created a science fiction story rich in complexity and depth, while crossing into the romance and erotica genre. Admittedly, the graphic sexual scenes dominate the beginning of the story, as the reader becomes familiar with what exactly a 'doxy' is expected to do. However, Manetti finds this precarious balance of romance and sci-fi architectural construction as the story unfolds.
The 12 Worlds and the 5 Warriors adds a rich history and marvelous background into this rigid and honor bound society that spans the galaxy. The element of control over the Vistrite mining combined with the struggle for dominance by the various Cartels reminded me very much of Dune. For me, this was an unexpected pleasure, as Frank Herbert's famous book will always stand as a pinnacle of achievement in the sci-fi genre. Manetti pays tribute to this masterpiece, while making this work original with a storyline that bears little other resemblance to the source of its inspiration.
Thank you for reading this week's edition of What I Am Reading.
4-LAN

[Veritas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good world building. The story is really heavy with D/s, nicely incorporated into the built world. Very nice plot on top of that. The very formal story wording fits the story nicely. Now I have to read book 2. Exactly who is the traitor? We know the woman who hacked in, but not who backed her (I think, anyway).

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 honor stars

Brilliant.

This book was really something else. I was led to it from a romance books group ... but for me this is more a fantasy story than a romance.

The world building is very solid and thorough. It is more related to societal structures, traditions and their weight. The way they both bind people and provide them a spine and support when overwhelmed.
The language used, in itself, creates half the atmosphere : formal, with very few feelings expressed, in particular when it comes to the two main characters.

I love the way we approach Lilian very progressively and from different perspectives : her own internal honor-centered monologues, her relations with the other apprentices, with her family... and of course with Lucius.

Same for Lucius : as the story progresses, we see him interact so differently with different people : his wife, the Master medic, Master Trevelyan ... and of course Lilian.

The author does a wonderful job in giving us more an more as the story goes. All secondary characters are carefully developed, each with his or her own history, competence and relation with either Lilian or Lucius or both of them (I grew very fond of Masters Chin and Trevelyan for this reason).

AND the plot is great ! ...

Brilliant as I said.

[Gates Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

What would you do to retain your honor? Your very life? Would you become indentured? Would you forfeit your freedom for not one but three years? Would you become no more than chattel? Or would you chose death?

This is the choice our heroine is left with when her father is convicted of horrible crimes. Trained as a warrior, she is stripped of her birthright. The only recourse she has is to either accept a death sentence or become little more than an indentured slave to a leader of her world. A man who is conniving, ruthless and by some standards machiavellin by nature.

We follow Lillian through days of training, we follow her triumphs as well as her tribulations. We cheer her success and cry with her through her failures as she learns her new role in her world.
A great read. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series.