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P.O.W.
After being taken prisoner by a Taliban Warlord, can Sam Stone hold on long enough to get his best friend back to his family and find love in the arms of Abbas, the handsome, blue-eyed Arab?
Sam Stone has been secretly in love with his best friend and fellow Marine, Benoit, for a long time. It's only after they were captured by a Taliban Warlord that he realizes that he would readily give his life to get Benoit back to his family. But it is Abbas, the Westernized Arab who steals his heart and helps Sam and Benoit regain their freedom. Now Sam has to learn to find true love and help heal not only himself, but the two men he loves deeply.
WARNING: Story contains scenes and depictions that may offend some readers. Non consensual sex, rape, gang rape, mental and physical torture, anal and oral sex between males.
Sam Stone has been secretly in love with his best friend and fellow Marine, Benoit, for a long time. It's only after they were captured by a Taliban Warlord that he realizes that he would readily give his life to get Benoit back to his family. But it is Abbas, the Westernized Arab who steals his heart and helps Sam and Benoit regain their freedom. Now Sam has to learn to find true love and help heal not only himself, but the two men he loves deeply.
WARNING: Story contains scenes and depictions that may offend some readers. Non consensual sex, rape, gang rape, mental and physical torture, anal and oral sex between males.
ebook
First published October 17, 2013
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About the author
Max Vos
29 books276 followersMax Vos is best known for his ‘inappropriate’ side. Bringing readers a range of stories with an unexpected edge. His bestselling novel My Hero is a hot and steamy romance, while his banned book Going Home questions what you know of love. With something for everyone, there is a Max Vos book for you.
Creativity has been a lifelong passion for Max, who retired from being a chef in 2011 and turned to writing. His strong relationships with the women in his life influence his stories and Max’s Southern charm shines through. Each new book will give you something to explore and love.
Creativity has been a lifelong passion for Max, who retired from being a chef in 2011 and turned to writing. His strong relationships with the women in his life influence his stories and Max’s Southern charm shines through. Each new book will give you something to explore and love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 2, 2013
0,0 stars
EDIT 11/2
WARNING: RANT BELOW
Now I know what pissed my friend off so badly - and me too by the way.
Is this a new way to write rescue reviews for bad books?
There were reviews from bloggers/reviewers writing for blogs popping up for this book that made me pause. Are they seriously trying to bring their point home by telling readers/reviewers who didn`t like the book and rated it low "they got it wrong, didn`t heed the warnings, and shouldn`t have read it in the first place?" Well, duh, I bought and read that book because of the warnings tagged to the book.
Apparently "they" can`t even read unfavorable reviews correctly!
The problem we had with the book was the one warning that wasn`t tagged!
If you get off on cheap pornography badly disguised as a credible war story/romance that`s fine with me, it really is, to each their own, right?
But don`t tell me what I should or shouldn`t do, read or think! Thank you!
Takes the whole review business to a new low, really!
RANT OVER
Miracles happen - I made it to 55%!
There are warnings tagged to this book but the most important warning is missing.
This is a one-hand read. Badly written prison/torture-porn where everyone fucks/rapes/blows everyone - nonconsensual, consensual, pseudo-consensual and everything in between. The sheer amount of spilled loads of cream, spunk, jizz, nut cream (do I have to continue?) up to 55% was enough to populate the earth a second time. There was romance, too, but so cheesy and unbelievable it bordered on disgusting.
Not to forget some really nasty lines that made me seeth - THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR RAPE! Not in porn, not in romance, not under "special circumstances", NOWHERE! Describe it as the horrible act that it is - I`m okay with that - but don`t turn it around to something pleasurable and titillating!
*deep breath*
The book goes into the shredder where it belongs. I hope the poor thing doesn`t throw it back up!
EDIT 11/2
WARNING: RANT BELOW
Now I know what pissed my friend off so badly - and me too by the way.
Is this a new way to write rescue reviews for bad books?
There were reviews from bloggers/reviewers writing for blogs popping up for this book that made me pause. Are they seriously trying to bring their point home by telling readers/reviewers who didn`t like the book and rated it low "they got it wrong, didn`t heed the warnings, and shouldn`t have read it in the first place?" Well, duh, I bought and read that book because of the warnings tagged to the book.
Apparently "they" can`t even read unfavorable reviews correctly!
The problem we had with the book was the one warning that wasn`t tagged!
If you get off on cheap pornography badly disguised as a credible war story/romance that`s fine with me, it really is, to each their own, right?
But don`t tell me what I should or shouldn`t do, read or think! Thank you!
Takes the whole review business to a new low, really!
RANT OVER
Miracles happen - I made it to 55%!
There are warnings tagged to this book but the most important warning is missing.
This is a one-hand read. Badly written prison/torture-porn where everyone fucks/rapes/blows everyone - nonconsensual, consensual, pseudo-consensual and everything in between. The sheer amount of spilled loads of cream, spunk, jizz, nut cream (do I have to continue?) up to 55% was enough to populate the earth a second time. There was romance, too, but so cheesy and unbelievable it bordered on disgusting.
Not to forget some really nasty lines that made me seeth - THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR RAPE! Not in porn, not in romance, not under "special circumstances", NOWHERE! Describe it as the horrible act that it is - I`m okay with that - but don`t turn it around to something pleasurable and titillating!
*deep breath*
The book goes into the shredder where it belongs. I hope the poor thing doesn`t throw it back up!
November 1, 2013
4.5 Star Review written for Hearts on Fire Reviews.
I have seen other reviews of this story that were quite unfavorable. However, I have seen, time and again, people who rate stories like this seemingly ignoring the warnings (and in this case, the title itself) and rating the book based more on events that take place within it than the actual story or writing. I will never understand why those people chose to read such a book that clearly contained content they found undesirable, but to each their own I suppose. Thankfully, I do not let those discourage me from giving something a try.
I am a huge fan of military stories, and prisoner stories, and slave stories, etc., etc. Needless to say, this one was screaming my name. The action picks up quickly as Marines Stone and Benoit are injured and taken prisoner. These guys are tortured in different ways by the Taliban to get information about their mission, including, but not limited to, electrocution, rape, beatings, etc. None of these scenes were too hard for me to get through, but again, I’m a bit more hardened to these types of stories than some.
This story is about more than that, though it is believed those things actually do take place to some extent in the real world. It is about the relationships between these guys. Stone, who has loved and believes himself in love with his best friend and comrade, Benoit. Unfortunately, Benoit is straight, so Stone never made his feelings known. While in captivity, he meets Abbas, a man who is also somewhat a prisoner himself. He aids Stone as much as he safely can, and the two form a special bond.
Eventually, these guys make it back, with the help of Abbas and Saaleh, a teenager who basically changed sides and helped them. They flee with Abass’ family and are eventually returned to the States. What ensues then, as the four wait for clearance to return to the U.S. is a huge pile of emotional goo. Only these four know what each has been through. Then you have the feelings between Stone and Benoit, and Stone and Abbas. Benoit and Abbas are each jealous of the other over Stone, yet they find a way to come to grips with how everyone feels. A threesome ensues, and though they are all extremely close, it is understood that Stone and Abbas are the ones for each other.
I had a difficult time imagining all this sex taking place while in military hospital rooms, but this is fiction after all. In the end, this was about these guys surviving and making new lives, some with each other, some not. I really enjoyed this story, and if you like things a little on the darker side, I think you will too. POW/MIA, until every man is home.
October 22, 2013
This probably would've gone much better if not for the nagging feeling that I was expected to take this piece of ummm...work seriously but couldn't. Let me rant my way through this and see what happened.
This was a war story about two close friends in the military, Stone and Benoit, being captured and then tortured in horrific ways. A love story with Stone and Abbas falling in love under difficult circumstances. A story about survival, beating the odds and finding a way home. All makings of a very good story BUT:
-Then you have MC Stone popping boners all over the place at the most messed up moments. There was a justification for inappropriate erections but I didn't buy it anymore after the third, fourth...I lost count times.
-Speaking of Benoit
-I'm not done with Stone
-Not to mention countless lines like Rich baby batter...ROFL...is this supposed to be hot?
Stereotypical black/white baddies, ridiculous insta-love, the escape...let me stop or I never will. The blurb and the warnings (yes, lots of torture and raping) may be accurate but it turned out to be trash badly disguised as a war story/romance.
This was a war story about two close friends in the military, Stone and Benoit, being captured and then tortured in horrific ways. A love story with Stone and Abbas falling in love under difficult circumstances. A story about survival, beating the odds and finding a way home. All makings of a very good story BUT:
-Then you have MC Stone popping boners all over the place at the most messed up moments. There was a justification for inappropriate erections but I didn't buy it anymore after the third, fourth...I lost count times.
-Speaking of Benoit
-I'm not done with Stone
-Not to mention countless lines like Rich baby batter...ROFL...is this supposed to be hot?
Stereotypical black/white baddies, ridiculous insta-love, the escape...let me stop or I never will. The blurb and the warnings (yes, lots of torture and raping) may be accurate but it turned out to be trash badly disguised as a war story/romance.
November 12, 2013
How do I give an honest and unbiased review of a book that I chose to read KNOWING it was not the type of story i would normally like?
That is the question that I went to sleep pondering, and awoke deciding that I needed to take my own "hang ups" out of the review and just rate it based on its own merits, and not subtract stars because of things that happened in the story, that I already knew were going to happen.
So, here goes:
The writing was tight and precise. I felt a connection to Sam Stone right away. He came across as a really good, decent man. A man who shed tears for the brutal and unfair death of a young guy who Sam swore he would protect. A man who selflessly chose to take a torture meant for his best friend. A man who saw the good in a couple of his tormentors, even though they participated in his rape and torture. Sam is just an amazing human being who went through hell, but came out a better man.
And Benoit? Holy hell I have no idea what to make of this straight man. For one, he may think he is wired as a straight man, but some of his actions would put a gay porn star to shame. He made me blush. But the real man inside was the best friend that Sam could ever have. They may not be "in" love, but theirs was a love stronger than any torture, stronger than any distance that separated them, and more pure than the activities they participated in.
And Abbas...what a difficult life this man was forced into. An educated man who only wanted to be a doctor and who honestly cared for people, but who instead is forced to participate in a kidnapping and torture or have his own family murdered. He proved himself from the beginning and I loved him the same way I loved Sam and Benoit.
Sounds all fluffy and sweet, right? So, what caused me to think this book wasn't for me, but chose to read it anyway?
Well let me tell you. Kidnapping, murder, vividly described gang-raping's, forced blow jobs by multiple dirty men, torture (of which, being forced outside in the winter naked and having cold water thrown on them would have be the worst for me...I hate the cold). And non-stop mental distress.
But in all honesty, even though it was a hard read and I needed JustJen to hold my hand throughout (even though she kept saying "it's almost over, it's almost over")..and it really took forever, but it was a good story and if you have the stomach and heart for some brutality with a HEA then I can recommend this book to you. But be warned...it is HARSH.
PS.I would have liked to know what ever happened to the rest of the team in crash helicopter.
That is the question that I went to sleep pondering, and awoke deciding that I needed to take my own "hang ups" out of the review and just rate it based on its own merits, and not subtract stars because of things that happened in the story, that I already knew were going to happen.
So, here goes:
The writing was tight and precise. I felt a connection to Sam Stone right away. He came across as a really good, decent man. A man who shed tears for the brutal and unfair death of a young guy who Sam swore he would protect. A man who selflessly chose to take a torture meant for his best friend. A man who saw the good in a couple of his tormentors, even though they participated in his rape and torture. Sam is just an amazing human being who went through hell, but came out a better man.
And Benoit? Holy hell I have no idea what to make of this straight man. For one, he may think he is wired as a straight man, but some of his actions would put a gay porn star to shame. He made me blush. But the real man inside was the best friend that Sam could ever have. They may not be "in" love, but theirs was a love stronger than any torture, stronger than any distance that separated them, and more pure than the activities they participated in.
And Abbas...what a difficult life this man was forced into. An educated man who only wanted to be a doctor and who honestly cared for people, but who instead is forced to participate in a kidnapping and torture or have his own family murdered. He proved himself from the beginning and I loved him the same way I loved Sam and Benoit.
Sounds all fluffy and sweet, right? So, what caused me to think this book wasn't for me, but chose to read it anyway?
Well let me tell you. Kidnapping, murder, vividly described gang-raping's, forced blow jobs by multiple dirty men, torture (of which, being forced outside in the winter naked and having cold water thrown on them would have be the worst for me...I hate the cold). And non-stop mental distress.
But in all honesty, even though it was a hard read and I needed JustJen to hold my hand throughout (even though she kept saying "it's almost over, it's almost over")..and it really took forever, but it was a good story and if you have the stomach and heart for some brutality with a HEA then I can recommend this book to you. But be warned...it is HARSH.
PS.I would have liked to know what ever happened to the rest of the team in crash helicopter.
October 24, 2013
P.O.W. is a major departure from Max Vos’s most recent bestseller My Hero. I knew it would be, so I wasn’t surprised. Other readers may have been. I thought both Max and MLR were very diligent in their advisory warnings. Anyone who was offended by the content should, in the future, heed a publisher or author’s warnings. They are there to be taken seriously. In effect, they turn readers away, so you know the publisher only puts them there if they contain really important information to be considered when deciding whether or not to buy the book.
My Uncle Bob (he has since died, so I can use his real name) was a P.O.W. in Vietnam. He came home a damaged, broken and bitter man. He immediately crawled into a bottle of whiskey and never came back out. He died from cancer caused by Agent Orange that his own government dumped on him and told him was harmless. He never, and I mean never talked about what he experienced for those seven months. I saw some scars once when he was living with us, but I was too young to put everything together until long after his death. I wish I had been a few years older so I could have understood what happened to him and tried to talk to him.
Max Vos has written, in accordance with all the research I did about treatment of prisoners of war, a pretty accurate account of what happens to soldiers captured by enemy combatants. If he erred in either way, it was to downplay the amount of torture inflicted upon these brave men and women. The Taliban is a notoriously terroristic group whose leadership seems to revel in the torture of their enemies. They are also part of an exceedingly homophobic society. To them, the sexual abuse of a prisoner is the most demeaning type of misery they can inflict. I have always found it odd that the Taliban (and all regimes before it, including Hitler’s SS) don’t allow themselves to comprehend that while inflicting sexual torture on the prisoners, they themselves are participating in an act which would find them put to death by their brethren under any other circumstances.
In P.O.W., Max Vos introduces us to Sam Stone and the fellow Marine with whom he is secretly in love, Benoit. Benoit is straight and has a wife and baby at home, while Stone is gay, but not really out. When their chopper is shot down by a Taliban RPG, they are taken prisoner by a sadist and his minions. One of the men, however is different. He is well groomed and dressed. He speaks English well, though with a British accent. His name is Abbas and he is there primarily as a translator. He is making Sam’s gaydar ping out loud.
Sam and Benoit are held for ten days. They suffer terrible physical, psychological and sexual torture. They are always cold. Always hungry. It is winter in Afghanistan and Sam and Benoit are kept naked with only a thin blanket for protection from the freezing weather. Abbas turns out to be a friend, then more than a friend to Sam and Benoit. He and another of their young captors are instrumental in Sam and Benoit’s escape.
Their dramatic escape was so well written, it had me sliding through the pages on my Kindle as quickly as I ever have. It was a hair raising, tense every muscle in my body, skin-of-your teeth, are we going to make it or not, kind of desperate run through the mountains to get to the safety the Marines had on the way.
The only thing about P.O.W. that was unsatisfying to me was the insta-love. I know many readers really like that and would count it in the plus column. It is just a personal thing for me. I am unable to suspend disbelief in that one instance. Probably because of personal experience. Don’t let that stop you from reading this book. The ending and especially the epilogue were exceptionally emotionally satisfying. I truly loved this book. There were parts of it that normally would have turned me off to characters, but they just fit with Sam, Benoit and Abbas. Max Vox did a great job of creating characters that will stick with you and hopefully make you think about what our (mostly young) servicemen and women are knowingly risking when they put on the uniform for The United States of America. Highly recommended.
My Uncle Bob (he has since died, so I can use his real name) was a P.O.W. in Vietnam. He came home a damaged, broken and bitter man. He immediately crawled into a bottle of whiskey and never came back out. He died from cancer caused by Agent Orange that his own government dumped on him and told him was harmless. He never, and I mean never talked about what he experienced for those seven months. I saw some scars once when he was living with us, but I was too young to put everything together until long after his death. I wish I had been a few years older so I could have understood what happened to him and tried to talk to him.
Max Vos has written, in accordance with all the research I did about treatment of prisoners of war, a pretty accurate account of what happens to soldiers captured by enemy combatants. If he erred in either way, it was to downplay the amount of torture inflicted upon these brave men and women. The Taliban is a notoriously terroristic group whose leadership seems to revel in the torture of their enemies. They are also part of an exceedingly homophobic society. To them, the sexual abuse of a prisoner is the most demeaning type of misery they can inflict. I have always found it odd that the Taliban (and all regimes before it, including Hitler’s SS) don’t allow themselves to comprehend that while inflicting sexual torture on the prisoners, they themselves are participating in an act which would find them put to death by their brethren under any other circumstances.
In P.O.W., Max Vos introduces us to Sam Stone and the fellow Marine with whom he is secretly in love, Benoit. Benoit is straight and has a wife and baby at home, while Stone is gay, but not really out. When their chopper is shot down by a Taliban RPG, they are taken prisoner by a sadist and his minions. One of the men, however is different. He is well groomed and dressed. He speaks English well, though with a British accent. His name is Abbas and he is there primarily as a translator. He is making Sam’s gaydar ping out loud.
Sam and Benoit are held for ten days. They suffer terrible physical, psychological and sexual torture. They are always cold. Always hungry. It is winter in Afghanistan and Sam and Benoit are kept naked with only a thin blanket for protection from the freezing weather. Abbas turns out to be a friend, then more than a friend to Sam and Benoit. He and another of their young captors are instrumental in Sam and Benoit’s escape.
Their dramatic escape was so well written, it had me sliding through the pages on my Kindle as quickly as I ever have. It was a hair raising, tense every muscle in my body, skin-of-your teeth, are we going to make it or not, kind of desperate run through the mountains to get to the safety the Marines had on the way.
The only thing about P.O.W. that was unsatisfying to me was the insta-love. I know many readers really like that and would count it in the plus column. It is just a personal thing for me. I am unable to suspend disbelief in that one instance. Probably because of personal experience. Don’t let that stop you from reading this book. The ending and especially the epilogue were exceptionally emotionally satisfying. I truly loved this book. There were parts of it that normally would have turned me off to characters, but they just fit with Sam, Benoit and Abbas. Max Vox did a great job of creating characters that will stick with you and hopefully make you think about what our (mostly young) servicemen and women are knowingly risking when they put on the uniform for The United States of America. Highly recommended.
March 27, 2017
A little torn on rating
I did actually end up appreciating this book, even though it read quite differently than my expectations of it. I was expecting something more brutal and depressing, and there were parts that were rather difficult to read about. At first I thought that it was all highly improbable and wanted to dismiss it as just some rather raunchy porn and objectionable scenes. But I realized I had to consider it without subjecting it to my own preconceived ideas.
I have no authentic experience as a military man or a gay man, or any man at all! I also don't know the author's experiences or what research he might have done. I have to believe that there are some truths in the events in the book, whether they might have been either exaggerated or minimized within the plot. What was truly evident is that there was love, acceptance and affirmation included. I do believe that sexuality is not just black and white and some bonds are deeper than blood, especially in the crucible of war. The characters reactions and some of the terminology used were often out of my comfort zone but I kind of liked their earthy and graphic nature. It was an unusual, not always pleasant but enjoyable read.
I did actually end up appreciating this book, even though it read quite differently than my expectations of it. I was expecting something more brutal and depressing, and there were parts that were rather difficult to read about. At first I thought that it was all highly improbable and wanted to dismiss it as just some rather raunchy porn and objectionable scenes. But I realized I had to consider it without subjecting it to my own preconceived ideas.
I have no authentic experience as a military man or a gay man, or any man at all! I also don't know the author's experiences or what research he might have done. I have to believe that there are some truths in the events in the book, whether they might have been either exaggerated or minimized within the plot. What was truly evident is that there was love, acceptance and affirmation included. I do believe that sexuality is not just black and white and some bonds are deeper than blood, especially in the crucible of war. The characters reactions and some of the terminology used were often out of my comfort zone but I kind of liked their earthy and graphic nature. It was an unusual, not always pleasant but enjoyable read.
September 5, 2023
Reread Sept. 4, 2023
Vivid, gritty, heart-wrenching!
Superb writing by Max Vos, that is smoothly flowing, and attention grabbing.
This shows the harsh reality of war, the death, pain, torture, hardship and more.
We see two men, each 30, complete opposites, one smooth, one hairy, one gay, one married with a new son, but both are best friends, and are "one" in their thoughts, for the Marine Corps ideology, devotion, dedication, and training. Stone and Benoit.
After their helicopter crashes in the hard, snowy, rocky hills of Afghanistan, they are ripped apart, body and soul. We see harsh brutality. Captured P.O.W.s with weeks of torture, rape, starvation and freezing temps, their rescue seems improbable.
Every drop of their beings are tested beyond human capacity. Every drop of their essence is used up, with adrenaline as the only thing left. But they have a hopeful exception, with an educated man, Abbas, who translates between them and their captures.
Just when all looks hopeless, Stone has a last ditch plan. The side note being the unusual love interest.
This is a fantastic, gripping tale!
Spoiler:
=======
Vivid, gritty, heart-wrenching!
Superb writing by Max Vos, that is smoothly flowing, and attention grabbing.
This shows the harsh reality of war, the death, pain, torture, hardship and more.
We see two men, each 30, complete opposites, one smooth, one hairy, one gay, one married with a new son, but both are best friends, and are "one" in their thoughts, for the Marine Corps ideology, devotion, dedication, and training. Stone and Benoit.
After their helicopter crashes in the hard, snowy, rocky hills of Afghanistan, they are ripped apart, body and soul. We see harsh brutality. Captured P.O.W.s with weeks of torture, rape, starvation and freezing temps, their rescue seems improbable.
Every drop of their beings are tested beyond human capacity. Every drop of their essence is used up, with adrenaline as the only thing left. But they have a hopeful exception, with an educated man, Abbas, who translates between them and their captures.
Just when all looks hopeless, Stone has a last ditch plan. The side note being the unusual love interest.
This is a fantastic, gripping tale!
Spoiler:
=======
November 1, 2014
Well that was the ticket. Fantasy = yes. Reality = no. But oh. so. good to read. Non Con, Dub Con, Rape, violence, menage +, and what might get interpreted as cheating - all combine to make a really intriguing read. Stone and Benny - the two Marine's at the center were really engaging - strong but not unbreakable and really tuned into each other.
As noted realistic this is not - I am sure pieces of it are but the whole thing is fiction. I love this type of story - the darker and grittier the better. Let me wallow in it and really get pi&&ed at what is happening. Let me feel for the guys - make ME take it as a reader...and bundle it up and just get good and emotional. No holds barred - this was not as harsh as some but more than many will want. TAKE HEED the warning then - I myself get so frustrated when someone cannot take something that was clearly stated. No nancy boys here - just men trying to survive the unthinkable --- and finding themselves in the middle of it.
As noted realistic this is not - I am sure pieces of it are but the whole thing is fiction. I love this type of story - the darker and grittier the better. Let me wallow in it and really get pi&&ed at what is happening. Let me feel for the guys - make ME take it as a reader...and bundle it up and just get good and emotional. No holds barred - this was not as harsh as some but more than many will want. TAKE HEED the warning then - I myself get so frustrated when someone cannot take something that was clearly stated. No nancy boys here - just men trying to survive the unthinkable --- and finding themselves in the middle of it.
May 5, 2014
This was an amazing read. I think some will find it difficult and it is in some places. It deals with torture, which is never easy to read about. However the overwhelming point of the story is love. Love of friends, lovers, family and family to be.
Sam and Benoit have served together, been best friends for a long time. Sam has secretly loved Benoit all that time. When they are captured by the Taliban, all Sam can think of is protecting Benoit, getting him home to his family. As they are held captive, an Arab named Abbas comes into Sam's cell. There is an instant attraction. Abbas becomes Sam's guardian angel.
There are some tough torture scenes, a great action scene and lots and lots of hot sex. I enjoyed the story and all the characters. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you can deal with it, you will be well rewarded.
Sam and Benoit have served together, been best friends for a long time. Sam has secretly loved Benoit all that time. When they are captured by the Taliban, all Sam can think of is protecting Benoit, getting him home to his family. As they are held captive, an Arab named Abbas comes into Sam's cell. There is an instant attraction. Abbas becomes Sam's guardian angel.
There are some tough torture scenes, a great action scene and lots and lots of hot sex. I enjoyed the story and all the characters. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you can deal with it, you will be well rewarded.
October 28, 2013
WHAT CAN I SAY? FIVE STARS MAX VOS YOU HAVE DONE IT AGAIN. THE EMOTION THIS BOOK BROUGHT OUT I, TO SEE WHAT SAM, AND BENNY WENT THROUGH, AND STILL HAD THE WILL TO LIVE. I LOVE IT. A MUST READ.
October 23, 2013
Please leave comments on Madam Aus's 5 sweet pea review at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
“Yes, Lieutenant Stone, hold a moment for the Commanding officer.”
“What? They put me on f#cking hold? Unbelievable!” Stone yelled at the phone.
Just…. *breathe*…
P.O.W. is deep and raw and emotional and confronting. I know I have frequently and loudly, both in this forum and on my personal reviews, said how much I adore this author, and this book has only deepened and firmed my opinion. This book is one that I needed a while to sit with and analyse where my feelings and emotions would end up landing. I want to take this time to advise that this is not exactly what you are used to from Max Vos. Having said that, one of the things I love about Max’s books is the hope and love and care he has for his characters in general, and this one especially.
Stone is the character whose POV we see and I love him. He has this need to protect those around him and takes it as a personal affront when he can’t. Stone and Benoit’s internment takes on sinister undertones from almost he start, and even though they go through hell, their reactions and actions are believable. All the characters in play are wonderfully fleshed out, with their own reasons and backstories that we catch glimpses of, including Benoit and Abbas, but for me it is Samuel J Stone’s story. It is obvious that the care and diligence that went into this story does NOT just rest on the so called good guys, but with all of them. This is the reason that I love Max’s books because no matter how small the character is in the story they are like a real person to this author and even if WE the reader don’t know the story behind them, HE does.
Again another advisory as it is not a typical boy meets boy love story. Not by a long shot. Sso pull up your big girl panties and get ready for a few very uncomfortable moments. Having said that however, the love story is remarkably sweet and wonderful with undertones of anxiety and fear. It is like one of those sweet/sour lollies with the hard and sour coating and gooey sweet ending… Well maybe not gooey sweet, but enough that I (being the biggest HEA proponent I know) was more than happy with where everyone ended.
I don’t want to go into too much of what Stone and Benoit go through as it is not my story to tell. But I will ask you to remember this when reading this book. Another charater in a book I loved was dealing with a loved one who had gone through a similar experience to our boys and he made the distinction that even though our bodies physiological responses may be triggered and used, its like the difference between your partner telling you you have a beautiful body and a stranger in a dark alley telling you the same thing. The same thing but different emotions are in play.
I find myself at an impasse. I want to wax lyrical, but I can’t without letting in giant spoilers and I am not prepared to do it. It is full of hard core angst and situations that most of us would not even believe exists, but it does, and without being gratuitious about it, Max has captured not only the phsical horror, but the mental, spiritual and emotional horror, when you can’t tell up is up anymore and your whole self-view let alone world-view has been turned up on its head.
I am incredibly glad that this story will be out there and you will all get to read it just as I have because it is worth telling.. Get it.. Fall in love with Stone and Abbas and Benoit like I did.
“Yes, Lieutenant Stone, hold a moment for the Commanding officer.”
“What? They put me on f#cking hold? Unbelievable!” Stone yelled at the phone.
Just…. *breathe*…
P.O.W. is deep and raw and emotional and confronting. I know I have frequently and loudly, both in this forum and on my personal reviews, said how much I adore this author, and this book has only deepened and firmed my opinion. This book is one that I needed a while to sit with and analyse where my feelings and emotions would end up landing. I want to take this time to advise that this is not exactly what you are used to from Max Vos. Having said that, one of the things I love about Max’s books is the hope and love and care he has for his characters in general, and this one especially.
Stone is the character whose POV we see and I love him. He has this need to protect those around him and takes it as a personal affront when he can’t. Stone and Benoit’s internment takes on sinister undertones from almost he start, and even though they go through hell, their reactions and actions are believable. All the characters in play are wonderfully fleshed out, with their own reasons and backstories that we catch glimpses of, including Benoit and Abbas, but for me it is Samuel J Stone’s story. It is obvious that the care and diligence that went into this story does NOT just rest on the so called good guys, but with all of them. This is the reason that I love Max’s books because no matter how small the character is in the story they are like a real person to this author and even if WE the reader don’t know the story behind them, HE does.
Again another advisory as it is not a typical boy meets boy love story. Not by a long shot. Sso pull up your big girl panties and get ready for a few very uncomfortable moments. Having said that however, the love story is remarkably sweet and wonderful with undertones of anxiety and fear. It is like one of those sweet/sour lollies with the hard and sour coating and gooey sweet ending… Well maybe not gooey sweet, but enough that I (being the biggest HEA proponent I know) was more than happy with where everyone ended.
I don’t want to go into too much of what Stone and Benoit go through as it is not my story to tell. But I will ask you to remember this when reading this book. Another charater in a book I loved was dealing with a loved one who had gone through a similar experience to our boys and he made the distinction that even though our bodies physiological responses may be triggered and used, its like the difference between your partner telling you you have a beautiful body and a stranger in a dark alley telling you the same thing. The same thing but different emotions are in play.
I find myself at an impasse. I want to wax lyrical, but I can’t without letting in giant spoilers and I am not prepared to do it. It is full of hard core angst and situations that most of us would not even believe exists, but it does, and without being gratuitious about it, Max has captured not only the phsical horror, but the mental, spiritual and emotional horror, when you can’t tell up is up anymore and your whole self-view let alone world-view has been turned up on its head.
I am incredibly glad that this story will be out there and you will all get to read it just as I have because it is worth telling.. Get it.. Fall in love with Stone and Abbas and Benoit like I did.
January 6, 2015
This was an amazing read....BUT READ THE WARNINGS>>>CONTAINS RAPE>>GANG RAPE.....I hate it when someone reads these books then have a dig at the author about it because they don't like these sort..This was done really well.....The story is told from Sams pov.....A marine taken captive with his best friend Benoit who he secretly loves....They are treated badly but Sam soon befriends Abbas a local man who is also kind of kept against his will to protect his family...Sam and Benoit are made to do some awful things to each other and have awful things done to them but their strength is beyond bounds.......Max did an amazing job with this book and I also enjoyed it more because I actually read it in paperback instead of ebook...Was great holding a proper book for a change x
November 9, 2013
P.O.W. is a major departure from Max Vos’s most recent bestseller My Hero. I knew it would be, so I wasn’t surprised. Other readers may have been, but I thought both Max and MLR were very diligent in their advisory warnings. In effect, they turn readers away, so you know the publisher only puts them there if they contain really important information to be considered when deciding whether or not to buy the book.
Read the entire review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
Read the entire review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
January 31, 2017
Intense!
I read all the warnings and I love dark books on occasions, but this one hard to read at times. Don't get me wrong, I loved it, as long as I took some breathers once in a while. The book immediately grabbed me and put me right in their world. The ending was resolved a little quickly but the guys all deserved it so it wasn't too bothersome. I'm happy I gave this one a shot. It was worth it.
I read all the warnings and I love dark books on occasions, but this one hard to read at times. Don't get me wrong, I loved it, as long as I took some breathers once in a while. The book immediately grabbed me and put me right in their world. The ending was resolved a little quickly but the guys all deserved it so it wasn't too bothersome. I'm happy I gave this one a shot. It was worth it.
May 30, 2018
If you are looking for a tense military read containing resilience, courage, friendship and endurance of the human spirit, move along, this is not the book you are looking for. On the other hand if you are looking for a dirty POW porn plot step right up this is definitely the book for you.
This was at best a meh book at worst a complete doozy of one. I’m pretty open minded but I found everything about the relationship between Sam and Saleeh creepy in its entirety. I didn’t really enjoy the authors writing style which never helps when I’m struggling with a book. Suffice to say this one wasn’t for me. Also I’m bloody pedantic and like my endings neatly tied up and without loose ends. So can I ask what happened to the other Marines who jumped from the the helicopter and also about Abbas’s family because I don’t have a Scooby-Doo? Although I’m not too sure I really care that much.
Time for me to move along...
*2.5 Stars* rounded down
This was at best a meh book at worst a complete doozy of one. I’m pretty open minded but I found everything about the relationship between Sam and Saleeh creepy in its entirety. I didn’t really enjoy the authors writing style which never helps when I’m struggling with a book. Suffice to say this one wasn’t for me. Also I’m bloody pedantic and like my endings neatly tied up and without loose ends. So can I ask what happened to the other Marines who jumped from the the helicopter and also about Abbas’s family because I don’t have a Scooby-Doo? Although I’m not too sure I really care that much.
Time for me to move along...
*2.5 Stars* rounded down
October 20, 2013
Après avoir été fait prisonnier par un seigneur de guerre taliban, Sam Stone veut tenir assez longtemps pour que son meilleur ami, fait prisonnier en même temps que lui, retourne à sa famille sain et sauf et trouve miraculeusement l'amour dans les bras d'Abbas, le bel arabe, aux yeux bleus.
Sam Stone est secrètement amoureux de son meilleur ami et camarade Marines, Benoit, depuis longtemps. C'est seulement après avoir été capturés par un seigneur de guerre taliban qu'il se rend compte qu'il donnerait volontiers sa vie pour renvoyer Benoit à sa famille. Mais c'est Abbas, l'arabe occidentalisé qui vole son cœur et l'aide ainsi que Benoit à recouvrer leur liberté. Maintenant, Sam doit apprendre à aimer vraiment et à guérir, non seulement lui, mais également les deux hommes qu'il aime profondément.
ATTENTION : L'histoire contient des scènes et des situations qui pourraient offenser certains lecteurs. Rapports sexuels non consensuels, viols, viols collectifs, tortures mentales et physiques.
L'avertissement est clair, c'est un livre à ne pas mettre entre toutes les mains, notamment des lectures qui aiment la douceur et les histoires d'amour qui se construisent longuement. Ici, rien de tout cela.
D'abord, le titre, P.O.W. signifie prisonnier de guerre.
Le livre commence très fort, puisque nous l'entamons avec l'accident d'avion qui a été touché alors qu'il survolait une zone montagneuse au-dessus de l'Afghanistan. Dans toute la première partie du livre, on peut lire tous les sévices subis par Stone et Benoit, que ce soit de la torture, de l'humiliation ou des viols.
Franchement c'est insupportable de voir jusqu'où peuvent aller des gens en temps de guerre, au nom justement de cette atrocité. Les méchants - enfin pour la plupart - sont tous plus infects les uns que les autres et on en vient à les haïr avec ferveur. Personnellement, durant cette partie, je me suis sentie oppressée.
Mais au milieu de ce camp, il y a quand même des hommes qui méritent une certaine rédemption, soit parce qu'ils ne sont pas vraiment du côté des méchants - enfin pas de leur plein gré - et qu'ils essaient de porter secours à nos deux héros, soit parce qu'ils révèlent leur valeur justement en devant faire face à un retournement de situation.
Que l'on puisse trouver malgré tout l'amour dans ces conditions peut paraître aberrant, mais cela arrive et ouvre une fenêtre sur l'espoir qui fait vivre et permet de tenir, donnant une raison d'espérer à laquelle s'accrocher coûte que coûte pour s'en sortir.
Max Vos nous propose là un livre dérangeant parce que cru, parlant sans détour des atrocités commises sur certains prisonniers de guerre et on se dit que c'est tout à fait réaliste et que cela doit vraiment arriver. Il rend également hommage à ces hommes et à ces femmes qui se battent pour leur pays (quel qu'il soit) et qui sont prêt à endurer beaucoup pour une nation qui pourrait leur être beaucoup plus reconnaissante.
Quand on a lu le livre précédent de Max Vos, "My Hero", il est étonnant de voir à quel point il est à des années-lumière de celui-ci.
En conclusion, à lire pour celles et ceux qui aiment les histoires de militaires, mais je rappelle l'avertissement qui n'est pas là pour faire joli.
Sam Stone est secrètement amoureux de son meilleur ami et camarade Marines, Benoit, depuis longtemps. C'est seulement après avoir été capturés par un seigneur de guerre taliban qu'il se rend compte qu'il donnerait volontiers sa vie pour renvoyer Benoit à sa famille. Mais c'est Abbas, l'arabe occidentalisé qui vole son cœur et l'aide ainsi que Benoit à recouvrer leur liberté. Maintenant, Sam doit apprendre à aimer vraiment et à guérir, non seulement lui, mais également les deux hommes qu'il aime profondément.
ATTENTION : L'histoire contient des scènes et des situations qui pourraient offenser certains lecteurs. Rapports sexuels non consensuels, viols, viols collectifs, tortures mentales et physiques.
L'avertissement est clair, c'est un livre à ne pas mettre entre toutes les mains, notamment des lectures qui aiment la douceur et les histoires d'amour qui se construisent longuement. Ici, rien de tout cela.
D'abord, le titre, P.O.W. signifie prisonnier de guerre.
Le livre commence très fort, puisque nous l'entamons avec l'accident d'avion qui a été touché alors qu'il survolait une zone montagneuse au-dessus de l'Afghanistan. Dans toute la première partie du livre, on peut lire tous les sévices subis par Stone et Benoit, que ce soit de la torture, de l'humiliation ou des viols.
Franchement c'est insupportable de voir jusqu'où peuvent aller des gens en temps de guerre, au nom justement de cette atrocité. Les méchants - enfin pour la plupart - sont tous plus infects les uns que les autres et on en vient à les haïr avec ferveur. Personnellement, durant cette partie, je me suis sentie oppressée.
Mais au milieu de ce camp, il y a quand même des hommes qui méritent une certaine rédemption, soit parce qu'ils ne sont pas vraiment du côté des méchants - enfin pas de leur plein gré - et qu'ils essaient de porter secours à nos deux héros, soit parce qu'ils révèlent leur valeur justement en devant faire face à un retournement de situation.
Que l'on puisse trouver malgré tout l'amour dans ces conditions peut paraître aberrant, mais cela arrive et ouvre une fenêtre sur l'espoir qui fait vivre et permet de tenir, donnant une raison d'espérer à laquelle s'accrocher coûte que coûte pour s'en sortir.
Max Vos nous propose là un livre dérangeant parce que cru, parlant sans détour des atrocités commises sur certains prisonniers de guerre et on se dit que c'est tout à fait réaliste et que cela doit vraiment arriver. Il rend également hommage à ces hommes et à ces femmes qui se battent pour leur pays (quel qu'il soit) et qui sont prêt à endurer beaucoup pour une nation qui pourrait leur être beaucoup plus reconnaissante.
Quand on a lu le livre précédent de Max Vos, "My Hero", il est étonnant de voir à quel point il est à des années-lumière de celui-ci.
En conclusion, à lire pour celles et ceux qui aiment les histoires de militaires, mais je rappelle l'avertissement qui n'est pas là pour faire joli.
October 30, 2013
P.O.W was a powerful read. And a book I think deserved to be written. This book doesn’t allow you to stick your head in the sand and pretend that prisoners in war time are simply left in a hotel room. And while I have read mixed reviews about this book, I can think of at least five countries or cultures who used rape in war or when they conquered other nations. The realism of this type of act really brought home the horrors soldiers endure. I have to commend Max Vos for not shying away from the difficult scenes.
This book had some truly heart breaking moments and I muttered the word no while reading several times. But all of those moments just made the story more powerful.
The warning labels on this book should be taken to heart and if the serious nature of this book isn’t for you, then don’t read it. But if you are looking for a book with heart and soul and a serious side then P.O.W is a brilliant book.
At is very centre this book is a story about love, friendship, family and discovery. Some of my favourite moments revolved around the secondary characters – Saaleh needs his own story. His growth through this book made me smile. Children are often used in war and (spoiler) I am glad Saaleh wasn’t a casualty.
Something I really liked about this book is that not all the Arabic people in the book were automatically evil. Much of the world media does this unfairly and it was really nice to see perspective.
Stone and Benoit have a beautiful relationship. They grow throughout the book and that makes them very understandable and helps you feel their strength. When you add Abbas you have some very powerful emotions. The way the characters grow together made me smile and my favourite line in the book is: (I don’t think it’s a spoiler, but it is near the end)
‘However, there were times when each of the four men needed a little comforting, a little cuddle time, when that time from their past reared its ugly head.’
It sort of sums up how I see the book, that the strength of these people/ characters is supported by the love shared between them.
I would highly recommend this book. It was an emotional ride that was well worth reading. P.O.W was brilliant.
This book had some truly heart breaking moments and I muttered the word no while reading several times. But all of those moments just made the story more powerful.
The warning labels on this book should be taken to heart and if the serious nature of this book isn’t for you, then don’t read it. But if you are looking for a book with heart and soul and a serious side then P.O.W is a brilliant book.
At is very centre this book is a story about love, friendship, family and discovery. Some of my favourite moments revolved around the secondary characters – Saaleh needs his own story. His growth through this book made me smile. Children are often used in war and (spoiler) I am glad Saaleh wasn’t a casualty.
Something I really liked about this book is that not all the Arabic people in the book were automatically evil. Much of the world media does this unfairly and it was really nice to see perspective.
Stone and Benoit have a beautiful relationship. They grow throughout the book and that makes them very understandable and helps you feel their strength. When you add Abbas you have some very powerful emotions. The way the characters grow together made me smile and my favourite line in the book is: (I don’t think it’s a spoiler, but it is near the end)
‘However, there were times when each of the four men needed a little comforting, a little cuddle time, when that time from their past reared its ugly head.’
It sort of sums up how I see the book, that the strength of these people/ characters is supported by the love shared between them.
I would highly recommend this book. It was an emotional ride that was well worth reading. P.O.W was brilliant.
September 13, 2015
I wish I could give this book more than five stars. It's an emotional, raw, amazing story. Some have said it's too graphic, too intense, but this is a story about war and war isn't pretty or pleasant and I respect a writer that isn't afraid to shy away from that fact. And this is about men captured in war, so yes, it's intense and hardcore, but the three main characters cling to their sanity, their will to survive, and one another. I've read this book three times already, and I know I will read it again.
July 1, 2016
Review coming soon!
March 5, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It was not what I was expecting, but it delivered a great story. I loved these guys and I felt for them. It’s a hard story, with brutal punishment and non com sex. However, it’s also a love story. Realistic = I have to say no. I still enjoyed it.
February 5, 2017
3.75 Stars
I have to wonder if this book was as hard to write as it was to read. I don't mean it was a bad book, I mean it was literally a rough read. I stepped away from it quite a few times.
I have never served in the military. My grandfathers and uncles did. My Father in Law did and my brother in law currently is serving. So, information I have was/is based on their stories and my own research and understanding. I like to point this out.
This story takes place in the Middle East. It really starts with a bang when a helicopter carrying a group of marines crashes. It is very easy to tell you that the first two chapters not only take your breath away almost painfully, but it really sets the tone for this story.
The MC's here are Sam and Benoit (Marines that are captured) and Abbas. Abbas works for the Taliban Warlord against his will. He is actually an incredibly sweet man. He sneaks food, toothbrushes, and other things to Sam, and later to Benoit. Those little things, I believe, are what keep them alive.
Now, I'm going to tell you that there are warnings of rape and torture. Heed them! Seriously. It's one thing to step out of your comfort zone it's another to jump right into it. Being there were warning and I was made aware of them I proceeded to read this at my own risk.
Knowing what I know about the Taliban based on research, and stories from my family and such the Taliban's views on homosexuality is one that is well known. It's religious for them. They do not stand for it at any cost. So I was genuinely shocked with the AMOUNT of rape in this by them. I can see them using it as torture making Benoit and Sam do this to each other but for them to partake in it made me realize this is not at all a realistic story and I put myself , now, in that mindset.
There were a lot of "huh?" moments for me in this book. I had to seriously suspend belief. Because this is a P.O.W. story and not a Master/slave story I went into it with a different mindset. One of seriousness. But facts wise it didn't all ass up 100%. So I chose to read this as more of a fantasy. I also felt it was the only way to properly review this book right and fairly.
Like I said, it's a rough read but I give props to the author's creativity. Abbas was an amazing character. I'd say he was my favorite. As dark as this book gets there is happiness in the end.
It is well written with very colorful characters, rough and gritty environment, and horrible situations. I would tell you to read it for the fantasy and not the reality.
I have to wonder if this book was as hard to write as it was to read. I don't mean it was a bad book, I mean it was literally a rough read. I stepped away from it quite a few times.
I have never served in the military. My grandfathers and uncles did. My Father in Law did and my brother in law currently is serving. So, information I have was/is based on their stories and my own research and understanding. I like to point this out.
This story takes place in the Middle East. It really starts with a bang when a helicopter carrying a group of marines crashes. It is very easy to tell you that the first two chapters not only take your breath away almost painfully, but it really sets the tone for this story.
The MC's here are Sam and Benoit (Marines that are captured) and Abbas. Abbas works for the Taliban Warlord against his will. He is actually an incredibly sweet man. He sneaks food, toothbrushes, and other things to Sam, and later to Benoit. Those little things, I believe, are what keep them alive.
Now, I'm going to tell you that there are warnings of rape and torture. Heed them! Seriously. It's one thing to step out of your comfort zone it's another to jump right into it. Being there were warning and I was made aware of them I proceeded to read this at my own risk.
Knowing what I know about the Taliban based on research, and stories from my family and such the Taliban's views on homosexuality is one that is well known. It's religious for them. They do not stand for it at any cost. So I was genuinely shocked with the AMOUNT of rape in this by them. I can see them using it as torture making Benoit and Sam do this to each other but for them to partake in it made me realize this is not at all a realistic story and I put myself , now, in that mindset.
There were a lot of "huh?" moments for me in this book. I had to seriously suspend belief. Because this is a P.O.W. story and not a Master/slave story I went into it with a different mindset. One of seriousness. But facts wise it didn't all ass up 100%. So I chose to read this as more of a fantasy. I also felt it was the only way to properly review this book right and fairly.
Like I said, it's a rough read but I give props to the author's creativity. Abbas was an amazing character. I'd say he was my favorite. As dark as this book gets there is happiness in the end.
It is well written with very colorful characters, rough and gritty environment, and horrible situations. I would tell you to read it for the fantasy and not the reality.
April 30, 2014
It has been several days since I finished this book and I can’t seem to get it out of my head. I have seriously pondered exactly what I wanted to say about it. On the one hand, I’m sure it is every author’s dream to have their work stick in people’s minds. On the other hand, the reason I can’t seem to let the story go is that grabbed a hold of a part of me that has never before been touched. I have never had the desire to research the P.O.W. experience (for lack of a better way to word it). I am a sensitive person and, knowing my emotional limits, I have always suspected I would not be able to handle it well, but because I am a fan of this author and knew it was a work of ‘fiction’, I thought I could handle it. Well, I didn’t handle it well.
It is a dark, painful story, just as dark as the subject matter. Judging by the author’s comments, he did extensive research and fashioned a story that wrings every emotion dry. I came to love and admire the three heroes. I hurt for them, ached for them, cheered for them, worried about them and cried for them as I have done for no other characters in decades of reading. Even the HEA left me feeling vaguely hollow for reasons I don’t fully understand. As far as the sex between the heroes goes, I have read reviews where people thought it was it was unbelievable given the circumstances. I can’t really offer an opinion on that and I suspect there are few who would be knowledgeable enough to offer an experienced perspective. I for one would not presume to profess what is or isn’t realistic or what people in such extremely difficult situations would do to find some comfort, some kindness and escape the horror of their situation, if only for a short time.
This is an important story and opened my eyes to another ugly aspect of war that will take me time to come to terms with. While I'm sure the P.O.W. experience is different for those that have been affected by it, I'm also sure the horrors of it are as real as they are in this story, even if the actual events differ. Still, I am glad I read it and I have gained even more respect for our military personnel than I already had – which is considerable.
It is a dark, painful story, just as dark as the subject matter. Judging by the author’s comments, he did extensive research and fashioned a story that wrings every emotion dry. I came to love and admire the three heroes. I hurt for them, ached for them, cheered for them, worried about them and cried for them as I have done for no other characters in decades of reading. Even the HEA left me feeling vaguely hollow for reasons I don’t fully understand. As far as the sex between the heroes goes, I have read reviews where people thought it was it was unbelievable given the circumstances. I can’t really offer an opinion on that and I suspect there are few who would be knowledgeable enough to offer an experienced perspective. I for one would not presume to profess what is or isn’t realistic or what people in such extremely difficult situations would do to find some comfort, some kindness and escape the horror of their situation, if only for a short time.
This is an important story and opened my eyes to another ugly aspect of war that will take me time to come to terms with. While I'm sure the P.O.W. experience is different for those that have been affected by it, I'm also sure the horrors of it are as real as they are in this story, even if the actual events differ. Still, I am glad I read it and I have gained even more respect for our military personnel than I already had – which is considerable.
June 4, 2014
This is only the second read for me of a Max Vox book. Between the two, this is my favorite. The characters were fleshed out, likable, sexy and very different, distinct personalities.
There should be a warning placed here these were P.O.W.s and there are rape scenes during captivity. So, if you can't handle rape, you need to pass this book by rather than read it and give it a bad rating because it has a subject matter you can't handle. So you have been warned. Also, there are ménage scenes for those of you that don't handle those.
I enjoyed the loving, close relationships between these men and I think Max did a good job differentiating between the different loves these men had for each other.
I was definitely pleased that Max upped the heat rating in this book compared to the other I had read. Not only was it hot, it was needed to move the relationships forward.
I enjoyed it a lot and recommend it for my dark readers, although it's not what I consider terribly dark. So those of you that look to me for dark reads this more on the darker side of gray. Highly recommended!
There should be a warning placed here these were P.O.W.s and there are rape scenes during captivity. So, if you can't handle rape, you need to pass this book by rather than read it and give it a bad rating because it has a subject matter you can't handle. So you have been warned. Also, there are ménage scenes for those of you that don't handle those.
I enjoyed the loving, close relationships between these men and I think Max did a good job differentiating between the different loves these men had for each other.
I was definitely pleased that Max upped the heat rating in this book compared to the other I had read. Not only was it hot, it was needed to move the relationships forward.
I enjoyed it a lot and recommend it for my dark readers, although it's not what I consider terribly dark. So those of you that look to me for dark reads this more on the darker side of gray. Highly recommended!
June 12, 2017
P.O.W. offers a graphic glimpse into a subject that most writers wouldn’t dare address. I think, depending upon the reader, you can actually view this novel from different perspectives. The writing is spot on and fluid, helping the story to flow quickly without diminishing the plot. Vos deserves a lot of credit in maintaining the intensity throughout. While I give this book five stars I recognize that it isn’t for everyone. It is violent, it is graphic but the story had to be told this way. It demands a complete graphic description of the horrors that can happen to POWs and the book would have failed without such intense scenes. Hats off to a fellow author for having the guts to write such a story.
just-comment
October 19, 2013It looks soooo interesting, but I'm not into threesomes at all ((((
January 1, 2014
not the way I expected it to end, but not bad either.
February 25, 2015
Someone with a strong heart to read this.
April 11, 2026
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I enjoyed this book but it was quite hard to read in a lot of places but also uplifting in others. I don’t really know much about the military or the horrors that those in Armed Forces endure especially as POW’s, apart from the knowledge that I’ve gained from the fiction books that I’ve read. This was probably one of the hardest to read due to everything Stone & Benoit suffered through, all I can say is I’m glad that they had each other and Abbas to lean on. The connection between Stone & Abbas was way too instalove for me for it to be believable, maybe if the book was longer it would’ve made more sense like how could Stone trust someone in that hell hole, even if he could see that Abbas didn’t like what was happening and was trapped as well.
I did find some of our main characters reactions to certain things to be f*cken odd and I just can’t with the baby batter, like wtf? The happily ever after turned out differently than I was expecting but I’m okay with it. I really want to know what happened to the other Marine’s from Stone & Benoit’s unit that jumped out of the helicopter and I know Abbas was able to get to America but what happened to his family, like did they get their land back? Even though this wasn’t my most enjoyable read I’ll still check out more of Max Vos’s book in the future and recommend this book and author to others as someone may absolutely love it, even if I didn’t.
I enjoyed this book but it was quite hard to read in a lot of places but also uplifting in others. I don’t really know much about the military or the horrors that those in Armed Forces endure especially as POW’s, apart from the knowledge that I’ve gained from the fiction books that I’ve read. This was probably one of the hardest to read due to everything Stone & Benoit suffered through, all I can say is I’m glad that they had each other and Abbas to lean on. The connection between Stone & Abbas was way too instalove for me for it to be believable, maybe if the book was longer it would’ve made more sense like how could Stone trust someone in that hell hole, even if he could see that Abbas didn’t like what was happening and was trapped as well.
I did find some of our main characters reactions to certain things to be f*cken odd and I just can’t with the baby batter, like wtf? The happily ever after turned out differently than I was expecting but I’m okay with it. I really want to know what happened to the other Marine’s from Stone & Benoit’s unit that jumped out of the helicopter and I know Abbas was able to get to America but what happened to his family, like did they get their land back? Even though this wasn’t my most enjoyable read I’ll still check out more of Max Vos’s book in the future and recommend this book and author to others as someone may absolutely love it, even if I didn’t.
January 13, 2020
**Warning: this text may contain spoilers** I will say this up front. The book has rape, and torture that is triggering for people just be ready.
I have come to like Vos' style of writing, it's easy to digest and most of the books are short for a quick enjoyable read. The sex scenes are pretty spot on and nicely balanced.
The scenes in these books are mostly rape so it is hard to really breeze through them, having been captured it seems that's the only torture the terrorist seem to know.
I will say the polyamory that happens in this book seems a bit too idyllic, but not having read other books with that kind of content yet I have nothing else to go on.
Overall the book was enjoyable and the sex is secondary to the intimacy that is at the root of the action; at least I believe that is what the author is working to convey.
Written by an optimistic romantic at heart I think it is worth giving a read.
I have come to like Vos' style of writing, it's easy to digest and most of the books are short for a quick enjoyable read. The sex scenes are pretty spot on and nicely balanced.
The scenes in these books are mostly rape so it is hard to really breeze through them, having been captured it seems that's the only torture the terrorist seem to know.
I will say the polyamory that happens in this book seems a bit too idyllic, but not having read other books with that kind of content yet I have nothing else to go on.
Overall the book was enjoyable and the sex is secondary to the intimacy that is at the root of the action; at least I believe that is what the author is working to convey.
Written by an optimistic romantic at heart I think it is worth giving a read.
September 6, 2017
3,5 stelle
Questa votazione non è dovuta all'argomento del libro, che è abbastanza crudo ma sicuramente realistico, è piuttosto il voto dato a un finale che ho trovato frettoloso e dove viene solo accennato un disturbo che colpisce uno dei protagonisti, così come è accaduto, e accade, a tanti reduci che hanno subito particolari situazioni nelle zone di guerra. Problema che a parer mio non dovrebbe essere accennato e liquidato in due righe di romanzo, a quel punto era forse meglio non inserirlo proprio.
Questa votazione non è dovuta all'argomento del libro, che è abbastanza crudo ma sicuramente realistico, è piuttosto il voto dato a un finale che ho trovato frettoloso e dove viene solo accennato un disturbo che colpisce uno dei protagonisti, così come è accaduto, e accade, a tanti reduci che hanno subito particolari situazioni nelle zone di guerra. Problema che a parer mio non dovrebbe essere accennato e liquidato in due righe di romanzo, a quel punto era forse meglio non inserirlo proprio.
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