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House Epsilon Duology #1
Xerxes Descendant
With planet Earth in ruins and billions of people dead, Kyle Randall knows he's got it better than most. Even if the power goes out too often, he’s never seen the sun, and the runes that keep the last of the great cities in the air are starting to fail.
Even if Kyle can't shake his attraction to his emotionally unavailable boss, the master of one of the lower city brothels who seems frustratingly determined to keep things professional between them.
And then there's the ex-client who wants revenge on Kyle, all the people mysteriously going missing, and whatever shady dealings are happening in the bowels of the city.
But that’s all survivable, right?
Right?
-
The House Epsilon Duology is a futuristic fantasy MM romance featuring a boss/employee relationship, sunshine Dom + the competent bad-ass who subs for him, sex workers (portrayed in a positive light), floating cities, magic runes, plots and conspiracies, the usual levels of smut, kink, and banter, and far too many 1980s song references.
Xerxes Descendant is the first book in this duology. Recommended for adults only; reader discretion is advised.
Even if Kyle can't shake his attraction to his emotionally unavailable boss, the master of one of the lower city brothels who seems frustratingly determined to keep things professional between them.
And then there's the ex-client who wants revenge on Kyle, all the people mysteriously going missing, and whatever shady dealings are happening in the bowels of the city.
But that’s all survivable, right?
Right?
-
The House Epsilon Duology is a futuristic fantasy MM romance featuring a boss/employee relationship, sunshine Dom + the competent bad-ass who subs for him, sex workers (portrayed in a positive light), floating cities, magic runes, plots and conspiracies, the usual levels of smut, kink, and banter, and far too many 1980s song references.
Xerxes Descendant is the first book in this duology. Recommended for adults only; reader discretion is advised.
533 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 26, 2024
39 people are currently reading
343 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 16, 2025
LET'S GOOD, BAD AND UGLY THIS REVIEW.
Good:
✅The smut was top-tier, imo for at least 80% of this book.
✅The kinks were done well
✅The world building, was ON POINT. I felt I knew exactly what this world was, who lived in it, the politics, the lifestyle, everything!
✅THE RANDOM CHAPTER STARTERS OMG, WHY ARE WE NOT DOING THIS MORE??? At the start of each chapter was 1-2 pages of random excerpt from the world... whether a news article, an overheard conversation, a text thread, a report, a letter, dialogue between random people on Xerxes. but damn this added to the building of this huge world, it gave this strange outside perspective that allows you, as the reader, to see more than just whatever our MC's are experiencing at the time. I LOVED IT.
✅I was highly entertained this whole book, even if I was eternally frustrated because OUR MCS NEVER FKN TALK TO EACHOTHER BUT ARE IN LOVE SOMEHOW.... BUT, from the world building to the plot, SHIT WAS GOING DOWN. Even though this book is 500+ pages, it didn't ever stop and I was always happy to pick up reading again.
✅Sharing scene and the extra scene.... I was into that..... (Also super glad the extra scene wasn't in the book because it would not have made sense)
✅I loved Akira, and Kyle as separate characters, Kyle was such a cutie patootie.
✅Dom/Sub Dynamic
Bad:
❌The non-monogamy didn't hit for me... whilst I understand books that feature non-monogamy and am not against it, especially as these dudes are predominantly a sex worker and his boss, I expected sex with others but.... the sexual acts in this, left nothing special for our MC's, to set their relationship apart from just regular old sex with clients?
PLUS our boss MC was out here getting fucking sexually assaulted and had no backbone about it, which 1. felt against his strong moody persona, and 2. meant not even being a sub was special between our MC's anymore.
❌These two MC's NEVER seem to talk? Like even after horrific sexual assault, they just doop dee doo on with their day after?? No jealousy or anger or any valid reaction? No talking? nothing!?
❌I actually don't understand how our MC's went from denying themselves each other for 5 years, but then randomly just start hooking up and being in love? HOW?
Ugly:
🤷🏻♀️Is a pretty frustrating read in many ways, but I WAS HAVING A GOOD OLD ENTERTAINED TIME, I can't explain. I loved the first 30%, it was horny.
🤷🏻♀️Can be rapey/assault-heavy at times.
🤷🏻♀️THE FUCKING PLOT TWIST AT THE END HAD ME EYE ROLLING, omg, I hated it, I assume it will be expanded on and explained in book 2 but fuck I hated it
🤷🏻♀️Feels like there is some things missing from this book that I can't quite put my finger on.
🤷🏻♀️Random scene involving horse-play talk, and riding him like a horse.... was super weird, want to erase it from my mind.
Good:
✅The smut was top-tier, imo for at least 80% of this book.
✅The kinks were done well
✅The world building, was ON POINT. I felt I knew exactly what this world was, who lived in it, the politics, the lifestyle, everything!
✅THE RANDOM CHAPTER STARTERS OMG, WHY ARE WE NOT DOING THIS MORE??? At the start of each chapter was 1-2 pages of random excerpt from the world... whether a news article, an overheard conversation, a text thread, a report, a letter, dialogue between random people on Xerxes. but damn this added to the building of this huge world, it gave this strange outside perspective that allows you, as the reader, to see more than just whatever our MC's are experiencing at the time. I LOVED IT.
✅I was highly entertained this whole book, even if I was eternally frustrated because OUR MCS NEVER FKN TALK TO EACHOTHER BUT ARE IN LOVE SOMEHOW.... BUT, from the world building to the plot, SHIT WAS GOING DOWN. Even though this book is 500+ pages, it didn't ever stop and I was always happy to pick up reading again.
✅Sharing scene and the extra scene.... I was into that..... (Also super glad the extra scene wasn't in the book because it would not have made sense)
✅I loved Akira, and Kyle as separate characters, Kyle was such a cutie patootie.
✅Dom/Sub Dynamic
Bad:
❌The non-monogamy didn't hit for me... whilst I understand books that feature non-monogamy and am not against it, especially as these dudes are predominantly a sex worker and his boss, I expected sex with others but.... the sexual acts in this, left nothing special for our MC's, to set their relationship apart from just regular old sex with clients?
PLUS our boss MC was out here getting fucking sexually assaulted and had no backbone about it, which 1. felt against his strong moody persona, and 2. meant not even being a sub was special between our MC's anymore.
❌These two MC's NEVER seem to talk? Like even after horrific sexual assault, they just doop dee doo on with their day after?? No jealousy or anger or any valid reaction? No talking? nothing!?
❌I actually don't understand how our MC's went from denying themselves each other for 5 years, but then randomly just start hooking up and being in love? HOW?
Ugly:
🤷🏻♀️Is a pretty frustrating read in many ways, but I WAS HAVING A GOOD OLD ENTERTAINED TIME, I can't explain. I loved the first 30%, it was horny.
🤷🏻♀️Can be rapey/assault-heavy at times.
🤷🏻♀️THE FUCKING PLOT TWIST AT THE END HAD ME EYE ROLLING, omg, I hated it, I assume it will be expanded on and explained in book 2 but fuck I hated it
🤷🏻♀️Feels like there is some things missing from this book that I can't quite put my finger on.
🤷🏻♀️Random scene involving horse-play talk, and riding him like a horse.... was super weird, want to erase it from my mind.
August 14, 2025
4.5***** stars
Fabulous!
I love the bigger themes the author explores in her books! Here, the divide of rich and poor, powerful and powerless, pimps and sex workers.
In this post-apocalyptic fantasy living on Earth is not possible anymore. From the seven sky-borne cities (hold up at plane hight by permanently running engines), launched over 80 years ago, only one is left. Xerxes. Eight levels, twenty million people. At the center of the story, House Epsilon, one of the seven Houses that provides sex and pleasure to paying customers (aka brothels).
Former whore himself, now Master of his own House, Epsilon is still trying to get his footing among the seven Houses. He’s successful with the way he’s running his business but when some powerful asshole is trying to take his favorite employee—Kyle, the man he’s been secretly in love with since he started to work for him five years ago—Epsilon is practically ready to give everything up he worked so hard for to save him.
And then there’s also the threat to the survival of the whole city itself. This was such a wild ride so far I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE SECOND ONE TO DROP!!
This series is also very kinky with a very interesting D/s dynamic between the two MCs Epsilon and Kyle.
***************
House Epsilon Duology
Book 1 - Xerxes Descendant - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Xerxes Ascendant - 4.5 stars
Fabulous!
I love the bigger themes the author explores in her books! Here, the divide of rich and poor, powerful and powerless, pimps and sex workers.
In this post-apocalyptic fantasy living on Earth is not possible anymore. From the seven sky-borne cities (hold up at plane hight by permanently running engines), launched over 80 years ago, only one is left. Xerxes. Eight levels, twenty million people. At the center of the story, House Epsilon, one of the seven Houses that provides sex and pleasure to paying customers (aka brothels).
Former whore himself, now Master of his own House, Epsilon is still trying to get his footing among the seven Houses. He’s successful with the way he’s running his business but when some powerful asshole is trying to take his favorite employee—Kyle, the man he’s been secretly in love with since he started to work for him five years ago—Epsilon is practically ready to give everything up he worked so hard for to save him.
“I love you,” he said. Kyle gasped, blue eyes snapping to his as he spilled over Akira’s hand, and for one beautiful, everlasting moment, they pierced Akira’s soul. The same soul he’d just laid bare with a confession nearly five years old and as much a part of him as the fine suits he wore and the marks tattooed onto his wrist and heart.
And then there’s also the threat to the survival of the whole city itself. This was such a wild ride so far I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE SECOND ONE TO DROP!!
This series is also very kinky with a very interesting D/s dynamic between the two MCs Epsilon and Kyle.
***************
House Epsilon Duology
Book 1 - Xerxes Descendant - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Xerxes Ascendant - 4.5 stars
September 18, 2025
Interesting premise. I liked the additional world building that the chapter intros offered and the general idea. Didn’t feel overly attached to either main character. I have a bit of whiplash from the rollercoaster of their relationship and just generally what’s going down between them. What is actually happening? Why suddenly fall in love now after 5 years? Where is the connection between them because I don’t see it on page, they barely talk. Who is the Dom again? Are they both switches? If Akira subs for everyone else what’s left to be special between him and Kyle? I got a bit confused.
Honestly I was here for the smut and it started good but then kind of faded from the midway point to a more action focus and Other Person/non con stuff. Which I didn’t hate but also why didn’t the MC’s talk to each other about any of that?? There is no communication between them, even after non-con from a third party occurs. WHERE ARE THE FEELINGS?? The jealousy from Kyle? I quite liked the source of the angst (although the Other Person situation had me rolling my eyes a bit) and the base ideas were intriguing but at 533pages I found myself waiting for it to be over which is never a good vibe. But there are cats. Cute cats. And maybe I just wasn’t in the right mood for this.
Bit of sneaky pony play 🤫
Honestly I was here for the smut and it started good but then kind of faded from the midway point to a more action focus and Other Person/non con stuff. Which I didn’t hate but also why didn’t the MC’s talk to each other about any of that?? There is no communication between them, even after non-con from a third party occurs. WHERE ARE THE FEELINGS?? The jealousy from Kyle? I quite liked the source of the angst (although the Other Person situation had me rolling my eyes a bit) and the base ideas were intriguing but at 533pages I found myself waiting for it to be over which is never a good vibe. But there are cats. Cute cats. And maybe I just wasn’t in the right mood for this.
Bit of sneaky pony play 🤫
October 20, 2024
Well, what a freaking ride of a book. My heart is still trying to beat out of chest from the sheer amount of excitement, angst, drama and heartbreak of those last chapters: what a ride, oh god.
I'm still not 100% sure how to rate this book, because on the one hand, I undoubtedly adored it: it's a majestic, chunky book, with an amazingly original, complex world-building, two protagonists that stole my freaking heart and the writing is seriously GOLD. I'd already seen such a difference in Adelaide Blaike's past books, but I think this futuristic world is where she'll excel: her writing here is AMAZINGLY GOOD, and it sucked me right in from the start. I felt like I was there on Xerxes, with Kyle and Epsilon and their whole wacky family of kink loving colleagues.
On the other hand, this book is very far outside of my usual comfort zone: I have a few things I generally avoid in my romances, and that's sharing, cheating and gratuitous amounts of trauma/violence. This book has all of that, although in different ways than I was expecting, but weirdly enough, I managed to get through them unscarred (well, minus my heart; it will take a dozen comfort re-reads to get over the anxiety this book gave me LOL): I'm weirdly proud of myself too. I've been so excited about this book, I could not let it pass: I'm so glad I decided to give it a go, despite some reservations.
That being said, I still skimmed a few scenes that had me feeling more uncomfortable, and I'm still not the biggest fan of sharing in general, so that's why I'm still very undecided about the rating. Both MCs are sex workers, and very much okay with their professions, so I guess it helped that the author managed to keep the two aspects, the sex for work reasons on the one side (but disclaimer, I don't think they believe in the concept of monogamy either, or at least for now!) and their special dynamic, with the emotional arc and the very present devotion between them, on the other. You can seem how much they love each other very, very clearly.
As a rating four stars seems right though, because I still adored most of the book.
I loved Kyle and Epsilon, and I loved their dynamic. This is the first time romance I've read with a switch MC, so after I got over my initial "how does it work", considering Kyle's very much a Dom, I adored seeing both those sides in Epsilon: I loved seeing what a demanding badass he was, but I also loved seeing him in his most vulnerable, secret moments. He's a tricky bastard, full of contradictions and secrets, hidden pains and distress, and I loved being in his head, despite me wanting to kick him more than once for being a self-sacrificing, lying idiot.
Kyle was equally fascinating: a sunshine Dom, with a mean streak and a love for cheesy 80s music and collecting strays (cats, people, lying, idiotic bastards? He'll collect them all!). I loved him, although I really hope we get to see more of his more competent, protective side in the second book. I'm a sucker for protective Doms, okay?! SUE ME. Epsilon deserves to be taken care of, thoroughly.
I loved their dynamic to bits, inside the bedroom especially, but I'm hoping Kyle manages to regain a bit more of an even footing outside of it as well: I can't wait to see them finally team up and be the power couple we all deserve.
I loved the world-building: it's freaking fascinating, and so damn creepy and dystopian and creative. I've NO IDEA how we'll manage to get a HEA after everything that's happened in the book, but we'll see *side eyes Xerxes's questionable stability*. I loved the side characters so muchhhhhhh, is it too much to ask that we get more books about them too? *stomps feet*
That ending was CRUEL: yes, it's a cliffhanger, albeit one filled with hmmmmmmm.... hope-ish? At least in some ways. Blaike has given us crueller endings, I think.
I can't wait for book two; hopefully it will give my heart a much needed reprieve from all the heartbreak and angst.
TWs/CWs: sexual assault, rape threats, sexual slavery, violence, torture, death, mentions of cheating, sexual, emotional abuse and mistreatment, racism. If you're like me and need more information about the sharing aspect (and also, the cheating bit: it's not what it seems though!), feel free to comment below.
Many thanks to GRR for the ARC. This is my honest review.
I'm still not 100% sure how to rate this book, because on the one hand, I undoubtedly adored it: it's a majestic, chunky book, with an amazingly original, complex world-building, two protagonists that stole my freaking heart and the writing is seriously GOLD. I'd already seen such a difference in Adelaide Blaike's past books, but I think this futuristic world is where she'll excel: her writing here is AMAZINGLY GOOD, and it sucked me right in from the start. I felt like I was there on Xerxes, with Kyle and Epsilon and their whole wacky family of kink loving colleagues.
On the other hand, this book is very far outside of my usual comfort zone: I have a few things I generally avoid in my romances, and that's sharing, cheating and gratuitous amounts of trauma/violence. This book has all of that, although in different ways than I was expecting, but weirdly enough, I managed to get through them unscarred (well, minus my heart; it will take a dozen comfort re-reads to get over the anxiety this book gave me LOL): I'm weirdly proud of myself too. I've been so excited about this book, I could not let it pass: I'm so glad I decided to give it a go, despite some reservations.
That being said, I still skimmed a few scenes that had me feeling more uncomfortable, and I'm still not the biggest fan of sharing in general, so that's why I'm still very undecided about the rating. Both MCs are sex workers, and very much okay with their professions, so I guess it helped that the author managed to keep the two aspects, the sex for work reasons on the one side (but disclaimer, I don't think they believe in the concept of monogamy either, or at least for now!) and their special dynamic, with the emotional arc and the very present devotion between them, on the other. You can seem how much they love each other very, very clearly.
As a rating four stars seems right though, because I still adored most of the book.
I loved Kyle and Epsilon, and I loved their dynamic. This is the first time romance I've read with a switch MC, so after I got over my initial "how does it work", considering Kyle's very much a Dom, I adored seeing both those sides in Epsilon: I loved seeing what a demanding badass he was, but I also loved seeing him in his most vulnerable, secret moments. He's a tricky bastard, full of contradictions and secrets, hidden pains and distress, and I loved being in his head, despite me wanting to kick him more than once for being a self-sacrificing, lying idiot.
Kyle was equally fascinating: a sunshine Dom, with a mean streak and a love for cheesy 80s music and collecting strays (cats, people, lying, idiotic bastards? He'll collect them all!). I loved him, although I really hope we get to see more of his more competent, protective side in the second book. I'm a sucker for protective Doms, okay?! SUE ME. Epsilon deserves to be taken care of, thoroughly.
I loved their dynamic to bits, inside the bedroom especially, but I'm hoping Kyle manages to regain a bit more of an even footing outside of it as well: I can't wait to see them finally team up and be the power couple we all deserve.
I loved the world-building: it's freaking fascinating, and so damn creepy and dystopian and creative. I've NO IDEA how we'll manage to get a HEA after everything that's happened in the book, but we'll see *side eyes Xerxes's questionable stability*. I loved the side characters so muchhhhhhh, is it too much to ask that we get more books about them too? *stomps feet*
That ending was CRUEL: yes, it's a cliffhanger, albeit one filled with hmmmmmmm.... hope-ish? At least in some ways. Blaike has given us crueller endings, I think.
I can't wait for book two; hopefully it will give my heart a much needed reprieve from all the heartbreak and angst.
TWs/CWs: sexual assault, rape threats, sexual slavery, violence, torture, death, mentions of cheating, sexual, emotional abuse and mistreatment, racism. If you're like me and need more information about the sharing aspect (and also, the cheating bit: it's not what it seems though!), feel free to comment below.
Many thanks to GRR for the ARC. This is my honest review.
November 12, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Xerxes Descendant is a futuristic, post-apocalyptic (or maybe mid-apocalyptic?) science fantasy story. The runes that are largely responsible for keeping the floating city of Xerxes in the air also protect sex workers from STIs, power all manner of technology, and more. This thread is also substantiated by a supporting character who gets a job actually working with runes as a sort of engineer. I liked having a solid in-world explanation and demonstration of how runes fit into the world.
After a long, slow build up between Epsilon and Kyle, the plot comes in to rip the carpet out from under the reader to leave our two MCs in a dire cliffhanger at the end of this first book. If you’re looking for a story that is equally driven by an exciting, dangerous plot as it is by two stunningly well-matched main characters who struggle with their feelings, then I think there’s a lot for you to enjoy in Xerxes Descendant.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Xerxes Descendant is a futuristic, post-apocalyptic (or maybe mid-apocalyptic?) science fantasy story. The runes that are largely responsible for keeping the floating city of Xerxes in the air also protect sex workers from STIs, power all manner of technology, and more. This thread is also substantiated by a supporting character who gets a job actually working with runes as a sort of engineer. I liked having a solid in-world explanation and demonstration of how runes fit into the world.
After a long, slow build up between Epsilon and Kyle, the plot comes in to rip the carpet out from under the reader to leave our two MCs in a dire cliffhanger at the end of this first book. If you’re looking for a story that is equally driven by an exciting, dangerous plot as it is by two stunningly well-matched main characters who struggle with their feelings, then I think there’s a lot for you to enjoy in Xerxes Descendant.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
November 2, 2024
4.5 - still processing.
October 27, 2024
Amazing Start
This is an amazing start to this duology. The world building helps to make this an incredible story. I'm looking forward to part two.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
This is an amazing start to this duology. The world building helps to make this an incredible story. I'm looking forward to part two.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
October 29, 2024
Xerxes Descendant is the first book in a new duology by Adelaide Blaike, and as a huge fan of the Riehse Eshan series by the same author I was so excited to read this book. It’s a very different world we’re being introduced to in this one, but it still has a lot of the same elements that I’ve come to love about Adelaide Blaike’s writing: Great characters, an engaging plot, wonderful writing, and lots of twists and turns!
We meet our MCs Kyle and Epsilon in Xerxes, a floating city where people have settled down after Earth became unhabitable. It’s not a great place to live, unless you’re one of the rich and powerful who gets to live on the surface and actually see the sun and the sky, unlike most people, who lives further down in the levels below the surface. Epsilon is the master of one of the city’s brothels and Kyle is one of his employees, and the two of them have had feelings for each other for years.
There’s a lot going on in this book, way more than I can cover here, but this is truly one of the most unique books I’ve read in a while. The world building is great, and while the city of Xerxes is a very dark place, the relationship between Kyle and Epsilon, and also the found family that the guys at House Epsilon has created, brings light to an otherwise quite dark story. Kyle is very much a sunshine character and Epsilon is the opposite in a lot of ways, but their dynamic was great and quite different from what I typically see in other books.
The story ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to read the second book – I have so many questions!
We meet our MCs Kyle and Epsilon in Xerxes, a floating city where people have settled down after Earth became unhabitable. It’s not a great place to live, unless you’re one of the rich and powerful who gets to live on the surface and actually see the sun and the sky, unlike most people, who lives further down in the levels below the surface. Epsilon is the master of one of the city’s brothels and Kyle is one of his employees, and the two of them have had feelings for each other for years.
There’s a lot going on in this book, way more than I can cover here, but this is truly one of the most unique books I’ve read in a while. The world building is great, and while the city of Xerxes is a very dark place, the relationship between Kyle and Epsilon, and also the found family that the guys at House Epsilon has created, brings light to an otherwise quite dark story. Kyle is very much a sunshine character and Epsilon is the opposite in a lot of ways, but their dynamic was great and quite different from what I typically see in other books.
The story ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to read the second book – I have so many questions!
October 25, 2024
Adelaide Blaike’s Xerxes Descendant is the first book in the House Epsilon duology and there were many things that had me curious about the story. It promised to tick so many of my boxes and I went in with high hopes.
Unfortunately, I found it difficult to connect with the story from the start. While there was an interesting world within the story, I was not a fan of the way in which information about the world built up. Information was either dumped or it came through snippets between chapters, which meant my investment in things varied a lot. I likely would have been fine with this if I had enjoyed the romance between the characters, yet I never felt anything between them. I blame this on the fact that they had feelings for each other from the start of the book. As much as I enjoy watching people give in to their wants, chipping down barriers to get to the person they love, I also need to see the reasons why they fell for each other to begin with. This felt largely absent to me, which meant I never cared for them together. Thus, while there were elements of intrigue throughout, this one failed to consistently hold my attention and I came to struggled more than I enjoyed.
All in all, I can see this working for many. There are plenty of elements that will have people curious about the bigger picture; sadly, however, I was unable to connect and this impact upon my enjoyment to the point that I am not interested in what comes next.
Unfortunately, I found it difficult to connect with the story from the start. While there was an interesting world within the story, I was not a fan of the way in which information about the world built up. Information was either dumped or it came through snippets between chapters, which meant my investment in things varied a lot. I likely would have been fine with this if I had enjoyed the romance between the characters, yet I never felt anything between them. I blame this on the fact that they had feelings for each other from the start of the book. As much as I enjoy watching people give in to their wants, chipping down barriers to get to the person they love, I also need to see the reasons why they fell for each other to begin with. This felt largely absent to me, which meant I never cared for them together. Thus, while there were elements of intrigue throughout, this one failed to consistently hold my attention and I came to struggled more than I enjoyed.
All in all, I can see this working for many. There are plenty of elements that will have people curious about the bigger picture; sadly, however, I was unable to connect and this impact upon my enjoyment to the point that I am not interested in what comes next.
October 29, 2024
Adelaide Blaike has created a world where eighty years ago, gamma rays struck the earth and killed most of the people. Those remaining, live in suspended cities using runes as the basis for power. Many are starting to fail causing all sort of issues. There are levels in this city called Xerxes and on some of these levels are houses set up for s*x of all sorts. One of those houses belongs to Master Epsilon. Kyle Randall works in that house and he has a major crush on Epsilon. While sometimes they do get together, Kyle has a job to do. He is amazing man, a bright light amongst all the shadows. He does tend to attract strays and tries to get them hired on with Epsilon. As the story progresses, we learn that all is not right on Xerxes. Individuals going missing is just one of the many issues. Not only that, Kyle has annoyed a customer who would not take no for an answer. The ending does leave us hanging but this is just book one.
I loved all the little things such as all the house masters taking on Greek letters as names and the city named out an ancient ruler. The world is tough with the inhabitants never having seen the sun, but there is much more going on. We now want more for our heroes and cannot wait for the next book. Beware, though, this is a dark romance. I highly recommend it. You will be glued to the pages.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review is my own personal opinion.
I loved all the little things such as all the house masters taking on Greek letters as names and the city named out an ancient ruler. The world is tough with the inhabitants never having seen the sun, but there is much more going on. We now want more for our heroes and cannot wait for the next book. Beware, though, this is a dark romance. I highly recommend it. You will be glued to the pages.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review is my own personal opinion.
October 27, 2024
Even though the synopsis piqued my interest, I was unprepared for the emotional roller coaster that was this novel. Science fiction romance should be this good. Perhaps it's not that novel to consider a floating city housing the final humans (along with a few felines) and the idea that a small elite can create and govern society to their detriment. The historical context of works like "Snowpiercer" was fascinating to me. Definingly, the novel is about the working class's fight against the powerful. What you would do to protect the people (and felines) you care about is also central. I enjoy that none of the characters are idealized. Their complexity, depth, and relatability are enhanced by the fact that they are flawed, insecure, and secretive. For those who find that repulsive, it's important to note that the main characters aren't limited to sharing "intimate attention" with each other; after all, they are working in a kinky brothel. Throughout this lengthy book, the author takes you on an emotional roller coaster and writes superbly. Obtaining book two is high on my list of priorities because I am anxious to find out what happens to the city, the couples, and the cats.I received an advance review copy from GRR and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 29, 2024
Kyle and Epsilon's story is not my usual cup of tea: I'm a big enemies to lovers, slow burn etc. etc. fan, and this is definitely not it. The MC's are very well acquainted at the very beginning, as employee/employer. Their deeper connection, however, is where we see the slower burn, and I have to say, I pretty much fell in love with them as a couple.
Master Epsilon is the owner of what is basically a modern all-male D/s brothel in a futuristic dystopian world. Kyle is his happy, always-positive, cat loving and 80's music obsessed Dom worker that he secretly holds a deep affection for.
When the mayor's brother breaks the rules of the house, assaulting Kyle during a session, he's kicked out and banned, which puts Epsilon on the mayor's bad side, and endangers Kyle, who becomes a target. The more dangerous things become, Kyle and Epsilon's feelings for each other become more apparent -- though secrets, violence, and the underhanded politics in their morally grey society don't make things easy for them.
I loved the world-building, but I think it could have been delivered better, as some of it seemed to be kind of dumped in clumps here and there. The MC's and side characters were all written well, and I definitely enjoyed the banter!
Master Epsilon is the owner of what is basically a modern all-male D/s brothel in a futuristic dystopian world. Kyle is his happy, always-positive, cat loving and 80's music obsessed Dom worker that he secretly holds a deep affection for.
When the mayor's brother breaks the rules of the house, assaulting Kyle during a session, he's kicked out and banned, which puts Epsilon on the mayor's bad side, and endangers Kyle, who becomes a target. The more dangerous things become, Kyle and Epsilon's feelings for each other become more apparent -- though secrets, violence, and the underhanded politics in their morally grey society don't make things easy for them.
I loved the world-building, but I think it could have been delivered better, as some of it seemed to be kind of dumped in clumps here and there. The MC's and side characters were all written well, and I definitely enjoyed the banter!
October 29, 2024
A story that shows that humans are the same even miles away from earth
Adelaide Blaike has my new favorite imagination. This book changes some things about earth history and gives us magic and most of the world population gone. As bad as that seems Ms. Blaike has gone with the more realistic version and had people act as normally (read horribly) as they do in our world. Hierarchies are obvious, lies abound, people are mostly concerned with their own lives and employees fall for their employers. It all seems so horribly real.
This book could have been written just for me as it contains most of my favorite things. Futuristic fantasy, lots of k1nk, boss/employee, great scenes of hot s€x, snark, lots and lots of snark, 80s song references, sweetness, sadness, cats and more that I am probably forgetting. How could I not love it? Only problem is that it ends on a cliffhanger (almost literally) and the next one isn’t due till July 2025! Do you think she could write faster if we sent meals to her and offered to clean her house? Let’s hope it comes sooner than planned.
Adelaide Blaike has my new favorite imagination. This book changes some things about earth history and gives us magic and most of the world population gone. As bad as that seems Ms. Blaike has gone with the more realistic version and had people act as normally (read horribly) as they do in our world. Hierarchies are obvious, lies abound, people are mostly concerned with their own lives and employees fall for their employers. It all seems so horribly real.
This book could have been written just for me as it contains most of my favorite things. Futuristic fantasy, lots of k1nk, boss/employee, great scenes of hot s€x, snark, lots and lots of snark, 80s song references, sweetness, sadness, cats and more that I am probably forgetting. How could I not love it? Only problem is that it ends on a cliffhanger (almost literally) and the next one isn’t due till July 2025! Do you think she could write faster if we sent meals to her and offered to clean her house? Let’s hope it comes sooner than planned.
July 28, 2025
I don't think it's possible for me to ever not love something written by Adelaide, and the sheer uniqueness of this series intro is a welcome refresher in a world of romance books that can admittedly see a lot of recycled stories and plots, no matter how well done.
I loved this being entirely centered around sex work, and seeing it done in such a positive light. Not just for the income source part, but for the personal relationships and healthy dynamics portrayed amid something that is generally used for much more sordid and unnerving plot points. Don't get me wrong, it gets plenty dark and eff'd up (it is an end of the world dystopian series, after all), but there's a lightness she spreads throughout her characters and their interactions that make you smile much more often than you'd expect to during your read-through.
I adored the D/s dynamic between Akira and Kyle, especially how beautifully Akira's switch nature was portrayed alongside his taciturn personality and Kyle's joyful exuberance.
Waiting for book 2 is not easy...
I loved this being entirely centered around sex work, and seeing it done in such a positive light. Not just for the income source part, but for the personal relationships and healthy dynamics portrayed amid something that is generally used for much more sordid and unnerving plot points. Don't get me wrong, it gets plenty dark and eff'd up (it is an end of the world dystopian series, after all), but there's a lightness she spreads throughout her characters and their interactions that make you smile much more often than you'd expect to during your read-through.
I adored the D/s dynamic between Akira and Kyle, especially how beautifully Akira's switch nature was portrayed alongside his taciturn personality and Kyle's joyful exuberance.
Waiting for book 2 is not easy...
December 30, 2024
I loved this book. The world building and story were great, but my favorite part was the relationship between Kyle and Master Epsilon, the man who owns a fancy brothel and employs Kyle as a dom.
The relationship between Epsilon and Kyle was incredibly unique, especially compared to other romances. Their relationship was ethically non monogamous--this had to be a thing, given the profession of the two main characters. If you, as a reader, are unaccustomed to reading such an arrangement, I truly recommend you keep an open mind and consider reading this book anyway. Take it from someone who is completely monogamous in their own life. The romance between Epsilon and Kyle almost felt more intimate to me because the little moments that built it up weren't just sex--it felt like their relationship transcended that. Because sex wasn't viewed as this lofty pinnacle, all the other parts of the romance felt elevated. I loved that and found that super refreshing. I also liked the fact that the main characters were sex positive, prioritized consent, and didn't shame each other for their desires.
Another thing I loved was that Epsilon is the one "with power" in the relationship given that he is the owner of the establishment, but he subs for Kyle. Even though Epsilon shows submissiveness in this case, he still comes across as an elegant, mysterious badass, who is extremely capable and both mentally and physically strong. It's not something I typically see in books that deal with dominant/submissive relationships--usually the dominant one is more powerful and the submissive always leans on that strength. I really appreciated that that stereotype was mostly subverted here.
This was honestly one of my favorite books that I read this year and I can't wait to read the sequel. I highly, highly recommend it, especially if you want to read something a little different than more typical books in this genre.
The relationship between Epsilon and Kyle was incredibly unique, especially compared to other romances. Their relationship was ethically non monogamous--this had to be a thing, given the profession of the two main characters. If you, as a reader, are unaccustomed to reading such an arrangement, I truly recommend you keep an open mind and consider reading this book anyway. Take it from someone who is completely monogamous in their own life. The romance between Epsilon and Kyle almost felt more intimate to me because the little moments that built it up weren't just sex--it felt like their relationship transcended that. Because sex wasn't viewed as this lofty pinnacle, all the other parts of the romance felt elevated. I loved that and found that super refreshing. I also liked the fact that the main characters were sex positive, prioritized consent, and didn't shame each other for their desires.
Another thing I loved was that Epsilon is the one "with power" in the relationship given that he is the owner of the establishment, but he subs for Kyle. Even though Epsilon shows submissiveness in this case, he still comes across as an elegant, mysterious badass, who is extremely capable and both mentally and physically strong. It's not something I typically see in books that deal with dominant/submissive relationships--usually the dominant one is more powerful and the submissive always leans on that strength. I really appreciated that that stereotype was mostly subverted here.
This was honestly one of my favorite books that I read this year and I can't wait to read the sequel. I highly, highly recommend it, especially if you want to read something a little different than more typical books in this genre.
August 2, 2025
What an outstanding book. Set in an alternate universe, Earth has experienced an apocalypse from a gamma radiation burst. Floating cities, launched before the burst, would have protected survivors, but only one city in the sky is left - and its technology and runes are failing.
Kyle is a sex worker in a brothel in one of the lower levels. He's generally positive and happy-go-lucky despite the negativity and corruption in the society around him. For five years, he's been attracted to his boss, Master Epsilon. He has no idea that his boss in borderline obsessed with him and has been for years, refusing to act on the compulsion. Now, things have changed and, while a relationship finally begins, there is danger and darkness all around. I plan on jumping right into Bk 2 in the duology because it is just that good. Highly recommended!
Kyle is a sex worker in a brothel in one of the lower levels. He's generally positive and happy-go-lucky despite the negativity and corruption in the society around him. For five years, he's been attracted to his boss, Master Epsilon. He has no idea that his boss in borderline obsessed with him and has been for years, refusing to act on the compulsion. Now, things have changed and, while a relationship finally begins, there is danger and darkness all around. I plan on jumping right into Bk 2 in the duology because it is just that good. Highly recommended!
October 26, 2024
The blurb sounded interesting but somehow I didn't expect this book to deliver the way it did. This is exactly how sci-fi romance should be. The premise of a floating city holding the last survivors of humankind (and a few cats) and society being shaped and controlled by the few leading to the suffering of the many is nothing new maybe. I found that an intriguing background for stories such as "Snowpiercer" in the past. This book definitely is about the struggle of the lower classes against the people, who hold the power. It is also about the lengths you would go to to save the people (and cats) you care about. I like how the characters are not portrayed as being perfect. They have their flaws, their insecurities, their secrets, which make them so much more multi-dimensional, deep and relatable. As they are working in a kinky brothel readers, who object to that, should know that the MCs don't reserve their "intimate attention" to each other.
The writing is great, the story gripping and the author puts you through an emotional wringer in the course of this long book. I am definitely looking forward to getting my hands on book two - I need to know what happens to the city, the lovers...and the cats, of course.
The writing is great, the story gripping and the author puts you through an emotional wringer in the course of this long book. I am definitely looking forward to getting my hands on book two - I need to know what happens to the city, the lovers...and the cats, of course.
November 5, 2024
This story is a tale as old as time itself: a story of abuse, suffering, corruption, s*x, power, found and blood family, friends and enemies, but above all, it's about love and standing up for yourself and others. Of fighting for a change to see the sunlight for those born in darkness.
Adelaide's new series tells the story of Epsilon, an emotionally closed off Master who harbors secretive feelings for his bright, sassy, lovely employee Kyle. Likewise, Kyle has been addicted to Epsilon since he came to work for the man five years ago, but unable to satisfy his dreams.
Epsilon is the Master of House Epsilon, a place where people can come to have s*x, especially of the kinky kind. Kyle is a s*x worker and the story features a lot of kink. If that isn't your thing, don't pick up this book. If it is your thing, you can fall in love with the way Epsilon protects his workers, how they banter between them and how Kyle doesn't give up an opportunity to remind everybody about his fascination for music from the 80's.
There is a bigger, overall story-arch woven into the story of Epsilon and Kyle. There are pieces of information in between each chapter, some more directly relevant for the story than others. This might make the story a bit confusing at first, but it also fits Xeres, the floating city, and makes you want to keep on reading and discover more secrets of the city and the people living there.
The first quarter of the book was a bit slow paced, but the action picks up along the way, as well as the suspense and emotional heartache. It's a blend of apocalyptic, magical (just runes, no other magical elements) and technological features. Not really science-fiction. Mostly, it's a romance against all odds kind of story.
I found this book to be much darker and heavier than her other series, with a lot of possible content warnings. It's perfect for readers who like stories with darker themes, who like their main characters to be put through the wringer before finally getting their HEA.
This book is the first in the House Epsilon Duology, and it ends with a (huge) cliffhanger. There are also a lot of questions left to be answered, problems to be solved, people to be saved, etc.. I have no doubt Adelaide will dig in even deeper for the second half of this story and can't wait to read the conclusion to this series!
Kyle/Epsilon 3 POV
One question that kept coming back to me was: what is the physical (and possibly emotional) effect of being born and raised in an artificial gravity situation, without sunlight and natural oxygen? There is (hardly) any mention of this in the book, while I think there must be a great impact, especially 3 of 4 generations down the line. Am I wrong? Maybe we will learn more about this in the second book.
Adelaide's new series tells the story of Epsilon, an emotionally closed off Master who harbors secretive feelings for his bright, sassy, lovely employee Kyle. Likewise, Kyle has been addicted to Epsilon since he came to work for the man five years ago, but unable to satisfy his dreams.
Epsilon is the Master of House Epsilon, a place where people can come to have s*x, especially of the kinky kind. Kyle is a s*x worker and the story features a lot of kink. If that isn't your thing, don't pick up this book. If it is your thing, you can fall in love with the way Epsilon protects his workers, how they banter between them and how Kyle doesn't give up an opportunity to remind everybody about his fascination for music from the 80's.
There is a bigger, overall story-arch woven into the story of Epsilon and Kyle. There are pieces of information in between each chapter, some more directly relevant for the story than others. This might make the story a bit confusing at first, but it also fits Xeres, the floating city, and makes you want to keep on reading and discover more secrets of the city and the people living there.
The first quarter of the book was a bit slow paced, but the action picks up along the way, as well as the suspense and emotional heartache. It's a blend of apocalyptic, magical (just runes, no other magical elements) and technological features. Not really science-fiction. Mostly, it's a romance against all odds kind of story.
I found this book to be much darker and heavier than her other series, with a lot of possible content warnings. It's perfect for readers who like stories with darker themes, who like their main characters to be put through the wringer before finally getting their HEA.
This book is the first in the House Epsilon Duology, and it ends with a (huge) cliffhanger. There are also a lot of questions left to be answered, problems to be solved, people to be saved, etc.. I have no doubt Adelaide will dig in even deeper for the second half of this story and can't wait to read the conclusion to this series!
Kyle/Epsilon 3 POV
One question that kept coming back to me was: what is the physical (and possibly emotional) effect of being born and raised in an artificial gravity situation, without sunlight and natural oxygen? There is (hardly) any mention of this in the book, while I think there must be a great impact, especially 3 of 4 generations down the line. Am I wrong? Maybe we will learn more about this in the second book.
October 29, 2024
This was such a gritty setting. Its somewhat understated but this is a post apocalyptic society and a dystopia. The world has ended and this is the last city left and its not doing well. But Kyle is trucking along. He's totally in love with his boss but in his mind, there's no hope. Turns out Akira has probably been in love with him even longer.
But with a society this dark, love isn't something that is easy. They have to fight pretty much all of society and each other. This leads to a massive cliff hanger, so I'm ready for the next one immediately.
Kyle and Akira deserve happiness. I just don't know if there's much happiness to be had in this world.
But with a society this dark, love isn't something that is easy. They have to fight pretty much all of society and each other. This leads to a massive cliff hanger, so I'm ready for the next one immediately.
Kyle and Akira deserve happiness. I just don't know if there's much happiness to be had in this world.
November 2, 2024
Ok, I really need the second book in this series to read right now. I can't believe how quickly I fell into the dystopian world of Epsilon and Kyle. Their boss/employee and Dom/sub relationships were beautifully complicated and when you add in the suspense element of the ex-client who is after Kyle, the disappearances and the wonderful world building that tells you enough so you feel at home in it but clearly indicates there are things going on the you as the reader and the characters don't fully understand I couldn't stop reading and can't wait to find out how everything is resolved and whether some of the guesses I've made are correct or not.
September 16, 2025
From the cover to the synopsis I knew this was going to be amazing. I’ve read this author’s work before and boy did she deliver. The story was unique and the characters were super well written and developed. She even makes you fall for the side characters. But while I loved the characters and content, it’s really this author’s writing that keeps me coming back for more. It’s just so gorgeous and captivating. And the banter! She writes banter second to no one! It was a little toned down in this book compared to her other series but dang was it ever perfect. Can’t recommend this book and author enough!!!
November 3, 2024
❤️❤️❤️,5/5
👥: Kyle is a happy soul in a sad world. I don’t know how he does it, but he is a ray of sunshine. My favourite thing was his cats. Epsilon seems like his opposite. He is quite mysterious.
💞: They try to love each other but this is not that easy in this world and they face many issues. Their dynamic reverses during sex and they use bdsm. It’s a common topic throughout the book, because they are sex workers. It was too much sex for me but that’s personal ! However I liked when the author denounced the lack of consent, their work conditions and rape.
🪶: The worldbuilding was amazing. It was what I loved the most. It reminds me of 1984, with distopy and science-fiction. It raises some important issues with our capitalist society and our government. It denounces the appalling inequalities in our society between the richest and the poorest through the metaphor of the different levels of Xerxes. It also points to the consequences of the lack of cultural diversity and language.
Huge trigger warning for abuse and rape scenes (not between MC), take care, it’s not for everyone. ❤️🩹
🗒: « When breaking the law is the only way to survive down here, who are the real criminals? »
✨I received an ARC by GRR for this book and I’m very grateful for it, but this is obviously my honest review.✨
👥: Kyle is a happy soul in a sad world. I don’t know how he does it, but he is a ray of sunshine. My favourite thing was his cats. Epsilon seems like his opposite. He is quite mysterious.
💞: They try to love each other but this is not that easy in this world and they face many issues. Their dynamic reverses during sex and they use bdsm. It’s a common topic throughout the book, because they are sex workers. It was too much sex for me but that’s personal ! However I liked when the author denounced the lack of consent, their work conditions and rape.
🪶: The worldbuilding was amazing. It was what I loved the most. It reminds me of 1984, with distopy and science-fiction. It raises some important issues with our capitalist society and our government. It denounces the appalling inequalities in our society between the richest and the poorest through the metaphor of the different levels of Xerxes. It also points to the consequences of the lack of cultural diversity and language.
Huge trigger warning for abuse and rape scenes (not between MC), take care, it’s not for everyone. ❤️🩹
🗒: « When breaking the law is the only way to survive down here, who are the real criminals? »
✨I received an ARC by GRR for this book and I’m very grateful for it, but this is obviously my honest review.✨
December 29, 2024
Adelaide Blaike has a way of drawing me in and making me feel a part of the story so quickly. The characters feel like friends and I care what happens to them. As part one of a duology there is a lot of story that is yet to come but I can't wait to see how it all plays out. Such a good start to the new series!
As usual there are moments that made me feel joy and lots of moments where I was on the edge of my seat - this author is great at writing emotional rollercoasters of books so be prepared but it is always worth it! I love Kyle and Epsilon and looking forward to seeing what happens next.
As usual there are moments that made me feel joy and lots of moments where I was on the edge of my seat - this author is great at writing emotional rollercoasters of books so be prepared but it is always worth it! I love Kyle and Epsilon and looking forward to seeing what happens next.
October 26, 2024
This was an interesting combination of sci-fi, post-apocolyse, BDSM and Romance. I loved that the couple were caring and considerate of each other's consent and kinks. If you like BDSM and consentual humiliation scenes the spicy scenes are really good. The first sentence immediately caught my attention and drew me in and I loved Master E, confident strong but also submissive wad hot and the way Kyle respects him as a boss and his master is adorable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2024
Thank goodness I knew this was a duology before going in because, as a rule I hate cliffhangers.
The world building here for this dystopian, future/alternative Earth is done well and the characters are interesting. Even the side characters have me wanting to know more about them.
Kyle is a ray of light in a grim world and Epsilon…well, he’s not as open but there’s more to his apparent aloofness than it seems.
I’m ready for book two but unfortunately, I have to wait for it to be written 😕
The world building here for this dystopian, future/alternative Earth is done well and the characters are interesting. Even the side characters have me wanting to know more about them.
Kyle is a ray of light in a grim world and Epsilon…well, he’s not as open but there’s more to his apparent aloofness than it seems.
I’m ready for book two but unfortunately, I have to wait for it to be written 😕
May 28, 2025
This was such a unique book, post-apocalyptic, sci-fi elements and then add in lots of kink. 😅 So much kink. Lol. I honestly was more interested in the world (loved the little snippets of lore we got in between chapters) and the crazy mayor/ruler plot than the romance. Not saying the romance was bad, far from it, but there wasn’t much build up or tension before they got together in my opinion.
This also felt longer than it needed to be.
But that last chapter and the ending! 🤯
This also felt longer than it needed to be.
But that last chapter and the ending! 🤯
October 29, 2024
Wow what a brilliant read which I found very difficult to put down. The floating cites are the starting to fall when the runes start failing. He lives underground and the lights keep going out when the power fails. He is life is not getting any easier especially as he is attracted to his boss. See where they will all take you
October 29, 2024
Well that certainly took me through a gauntlet of emotions! And the ending! Well now, I seriously need the next book! I am not going to give any spoilers, and the blurb gives you the outline, but if you really want my opinion you MUST read this book!
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
November 19, 2024
I’m rounding up to 4 on this book out of sentimentality. I think the author’s other series is more skillfully crafted but THAT BEING SAID.
Oh my god Kyle. Oh my god, KYLE’S CATS. OH MY GOD MISHA hahahahah
l thoroughly enjoyed this. Oddly I want to take all of Blaike’s protagonists and make them into plushies and cuddle them.
Also like CLIFFHANGER MUCH‽
I’m screaming.
Oh my god Kyle. Oh my god, KYLE’S CATS. OH MY GOD MISHA hahahahah
l thoroughly enjoyed this. Oddly I want to take all of Blaike’s protagonists and make them into plushies and cuddle them.
Also like CLIFFHANGER MUCH‽
I’m screaming.
August 10, 2025
I really liked the world building and the fact that we get some snippets of how it came to be piece by piece along the story, I don't love when we spend entire chapters explaining the world, I like it more when I'm going in a bit blind. Loved the dynamic between the two main characters, their power dynamic was very interesting
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