What do you think?
Rate this book
PRISM Agents #1
Specimen
David Cortez, a decorated US Marine, is now on the run from his own government after escaping a top-secret CIA lab when an experimental medical procedure turned sour.
While lying low in Mexico, an assassin sent from British Intelligence tracks him down. However, Sonny from MI6, a British-Iranian with a cockney accent, offers David a choice: join his team, or be killed.
David chooses to work with Sonny, not only because he wants his life back, but because he feels a kinship with the man.
They’re also both in the unique position of being the only living test subjects with alien DNA in their blood. Could that explain the strong attraction between them?
While lying low in Mexico, an assassin sent from British Intelligence tracks him down. However, Sonny from MI6, a British-Iranian with a cockney accent, offers David a choice: join his team, or be killed.
David chooses to work with Sonny, not only because he wants his life back, but because he feels a kinship with the man.
They’re also both in the unique position of being the only living test subjects with alien DNA in their blood. Could that explain the strong attraction between them?
ebook
First published March 6, 2025
9 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
About the author
C. Quince
2 books20 followersQuince (he/they) is a MENA-British author who lives in England, enjoys Sci-Fi and Fantasy, History, and Halloween.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
March 11, 2025
What an amazing debut novel!
Specimen has so many things, from a diversity (sexualities, genders and nationalities) to an interesting twist of enhanced soldiers and paranormal creatures like vampires.
The writing kept me wholly engaged and interested (flying through the book in 2 days). What I really loved is how flawed and imperfect all the characters are, be it the main characters Sonny and David, but also introduced side characters like Sonny's cousin or team. Everyone has their own problems and moral dilemmas, which made them all feel very alive and real.
As the first book, there's a lot of introduction and more questions posed than answered - which keeps me interested and intrigued to read the next book. Especially after that end!
Specimen has so many things, from a diversity (sexualities, genders and nationalities) to an interesting twist of enhanced soldiers and paranormal creatures like vampires.
The writing kept me wholly engaged and interested (flying through the book in 2 days). What I really loved is how flawed and imperfect all the characters are, be it the main characters Sonny and David, but also introduced side characters like Sonny's cousin or team. Everyone has their own problems and moral dilemmas, which made them all feel very alive and real.
As the first book, there's a lot of introduction and more questions posed than answered - which keeps me interested and intrigued to read the next book. Especially after that end!
February 27, 2025
4.5
What an incredible debut! C. Quince has managed to create a book that's not only unique, action-packed, sweet, snarky, incredibly well-researched, and thrilling, but one that's also BRIMMING with diversity. That last one is a feature that's so needed yet so impressively done here that I just want to talk about it for a minute.
Specimen is a beautiful book for its wealth of representation alone. Besides the variety of identities, from the main characters being bisexual and gay respectively (and a non-binary side character), there are also a cast of men and women of a multitude of skin colors and sizes, and a wildly eclectic mix of nationalities, from Mexican and American to Iranian, Arabic, Korean, Indian, Scottish, a mix of East Asian, English, and more, and they all fit; there's plenty of space for them here, all living their own lives but sharing their culture with these characters. They're each introduced with a level of ease, respect, and authenticity that I've just never seen done even SIMILARLY well to such a degree before. It's a gratifying experience that I WISH I saw more of in literature. Other writers need to take note!
What's great about Specimen, though, is that while when I say "authenticity" I mean every single nationality is treated with the utmost diligence, that's not the only thing AUTHENTICALLY represented. From tools and weapons used by the main characters and the practices of the government agencies they come in contact with, to geography, landmarks, and infrastructure, Specimen carefully, yet painlessly details, adding depth and VIVIDNESS to the story. There are even some historical figures and ancient orders/customs mentioned briefly but with enough specifics for me to curiously fact check, and all the information included here was correct! It feels obvious to me that the author not only loves history but also CULTURE and everything that makes a people unique, and he inscribed his book with that love in a rich yet concise way that added DEEPLY to the story without ever slowing the pace.
Honestly, this book moves along at such a clip, there's never a chance for it to drag. Even when they're sightseeing or sharing their pasts. In fact, those were some of my favorite moments! Despite the series of successive missions, touching on the supernatural, fueled with tension and danger, there's still somehow plenty of time for quiet moments, for snark, for conversation, and for deep dives into character histories and how David and Sonny came to be where they are today.
David and Sonny, the heart of this story, two soldiers who signed up for more than they bargained for but finally finding a connection in one another. Their relationship is quick but intentional and doesn't feel rushed. They click so quickly and bond just as fast, their banter fitting together like a comfortable handshake. I really enjoyed their snark and quit wit, and all the mysteries surrounding their alien counterparts just added another layer of INTEREST to them. They and the cast of characters with them were all really well done.
Overall, this book pulls from familiar topics yet delivers them in an unfamiliar way with a fascinating *twist* on enhanced soldiers. Injected with alien DNA, hosts to things even the scientists don't understand. I continue to find this premise FASCINATING, and while I wanted to know more, I got juuust enough to scratch that itch, and I feel it's one subject that'll get even more screentime in future books. Something I dearly look forward to! In the meantime, I'll just say I found myself really enjoying Specimen early on, and that feeling never let up. It's fast-paced while being culturally and historically rich - an exhilarating DEI queer romance that deserves a vast amount of attention and respect, and I can only hope it gets all that it deserves! Will be following this author and looking forward to more books from him in the future!
What an incredible debut! C. Quince has managed to create a book that's not only unique, action-packed, sweet, snarky, incredibly well-researched, and thrilling, but one that's also BRIMMING with diversity. That last one is a feature that's so needed yet so impressively done here that I just want to talk about it for a minute.
Specimen is a beautiful book for its wealth of representation alone. Besides the variety of identities, from the main characters being bisexual and gay respectively (and a non-binary side character), there are also a cast of men and women of a multitude of skin colors and sizes, and a wildly eclectic mix of nationalities, from Mexican and American to Iranian, Arabic, Korean, Indian, Scottish, a mix of East Asian, English, and more, and they all fit; there's plenty of space for them here, all living their own lives but sharing their culture with these characters. They're each introduced with a level of ease, respect, and authenticity that I've just never seen done even SIMILARLY well to such a degree before. It's a gratifying experience that I WISH I saw more of in literature. Other writers need to take note!
What's great about Specimen, though, is that while when I say "authenticity" I mean every single nationality is treated with the utmost diligence, that's not the only thing AUTHENTICALLY represented. From tools and weapons used by the main characters and the practices of the government agencies they come in contact with, to geography, landmarks, and infrastructure, Specimen carefully, yet painlessly details, adding depth and VIVIDNESS to the story. There are even some historical figures and ancient orders/customs mentioned briefly but with enough specifics for me to curiously fact check, and all the information included here was correct! It feels obvious to me that the author not only loves history but also CULTURE and everything that makes a people unique, and he inscribed his book with that love in a rich yet concise way that added DEEPLY to the story without ever slowing the pace.
Honestly, this book moves along at such a clip, there's never a chance for it to drag. Even when they're sightseeing or sharing their pasts. In fact, those were some of my favorite moments! Despite the series of successive missions, touching on the supernatural, fueled with tension and danger, there's still somehow plenty of time for quiet moments, for snark, for conversation, and for deep dives into character histories and how David and Sonny came to be where they are today.
David and Sonny, the heart of this story, two soldiers who signed up for more than they bargained for but finally finding a connection in one another. Their relationship is quick but intentional and doesn't feel rushed. They click so quickly and bond just as fast, their banter fitting together like a comfortable handshake. I really enjoyed their snark and quit wit, and all the mysteries surrounding their alien counterparts just added another layer of INTEREST to them. They and the cast of characters with them were all really well done.
Overall, this book pulls from familiar topics yet delivers them in an unfamiliar way with a fascinating *twist* on enhanced soldiers. Injected with alien DNA, hosts to things even the scientists don't understand. I continue to find this premise FASCINATING, and while I wanted to know more, I got juuust enough to scratch that itch, and I feel it's one subject that'll get even more screentime in future books. Something I dearly look forward to! In the meantime, I'll just say I found myself really enjoying Specimen early on, and that feeling never let up. It's fast-paced while being culturally and historically rich - an exhilarating DEI queer romance that deserves a vast amount of attention and respect, and I can only hope it gets all that it deserves! Will be following this author and looking forward to more books from him in the future!
March 9, 2025
4.5
What an incredible debut! C. Quince has managed to create a book that's not only unique, action-packed, sweet, snarky, incredibly well-researched, and thrilling, but one that's also BRIMMING with diversity. That last one is a feature that's so needed yet so impressively done here that I just want to talk about it for a minute.
Specimen is a beautiful book for its wealth of representation alone. Besides the variety of identities, from the main characters being bisexual and gay respectively (and a non-binary side character), there are also a cast of men and women of a multitude of skin colors and sizes, and a wildly eclectic mix of nationalities, from Mexican and American to Iranian, Arabic, Korean, Indian, Scottish, a mix of East Asian, English, and more, and they all fit; there's plenty of space for them here, all living their own lives but sharing their culture with these characters. They're each introduced with a level of ease, respect, and authenticity that I've just never seen done even SIMILARLY well to such a degree before. It's a gratifying experience that I WISH I saw more of in literature. Other writers need to take note!
What's great about Specimen, though, is that while when I say "authenticity" I mean every single nationality is treated with the utmost diligence, that's not the only thing AUTHENTICALLY represented. From tools and weapons used by the main characters and the practices of the government agencies they come in contact with, to geography, landmarks, and infrastructure, Specimen carefully, yet painlessly details, adding depth and VIVIDNESS to the story. There are even some historical figures and ancient orders/customs mentioned briefly but with enough specifics for me to curiously fact check, and all the information included here was correct! It feels obvious to me that the author not only loves history but also CULTURE and everything that makes a people unique, and he inscribed his book with that love in a rich yet concise way that added DEEPLY to the story without ever slowing the pace.
Honestly, this book moves along at such a clip, there's never a chance for it to drag. Even when they're sightseeing or sharing their pasts. In fact, those were some of my favorite moments! Despite the series of successive missions, touching on the supernatural, fueled with tension and danger, there's still somehow plenty of time for quiet moments, for snark, for conversation, and for deep dives into character histories and how David and Sonny came to be where they are today.
David and Sonny, the heart of this story, two soldiers who signed up for more than they bargained for but finally finding a connection in one another. Their relationship is quick but intentional and doesn't feel rushed. They click so quickly and bond just as fast, their banter fitting together like a comfortable handshake. I really enjoyed their snark and quit wit, and all the mysteries surrounding their alien counterparts just added another layer of INTEREST to them. They and the cast of characters with them were all really well done.
Overall, this book pulls from familiar topics yet delivers them in an unfamiliar way with a fascinating *twist* on enhanced soldiers. Injected with alien DNA, hosts to things even the scientists don't understand. I continue to find this premise FASCINATING, and while I wanted to know more, I got juuust enough to scratch that itch, and I feel it's one subject that'll get even more screentime in future books. Something I dearly look forward to! In the meantime, I'll just say I found myself really enjoying Specimen early on, and that feeling never let up. It's fast-paced while being culturally and historically rich - an exhilarating DEI queer romance that deserves a vast amount of attention and respect, and I can only hope it gets all that it deserves! Will be following this author and looking forward to more books from him in the future!
What an incredible debut! C. Quince has managed to create a book that's not only unique, action-packed, sweet, snarky, incredibly well-researched, and thrilling, but one that's also BRIMMING with diversity. That last one is a feature that's so needed yet so impressively done here that I just want to talk about it for a minute.
Specimen is a beautiful book for its wealth of representation alone. Besides the variety of identities, from the main characters being bisexual and gay respectively (and a non-binary side character), there are also a cast of men and women of a multitude of skin colors and sizes, and a wildly eclectic mix of nationalities, from Mexican and American to Iranian, Arabic, Korean, Indian, Scottish, a mix of East Asian, English, and more, and they all fit; there's plenty of space for them here, all living their own lives but sharing their culture with these characters. They're each introduced with a level of ease, respect, and authenticity that I've just never seen done even SIMILARLY well to such a degree before. It's a gratifying experience that I WISH I saw more of in literature. Other writers need to take note!
What's great about Specimen, though, is that while when I say "authenticity" I mean every single nationality is treated with the utmost diligence, that's not the only thing AUTHENTICALLY represented. From tools and weapons used by the main characters and the practices of the government agencies they come in contact with, to geography, landmarks, and infrastructure, Specimen carefully, yet painlessly details, adding depth and VIVIDNESS to the story. There are even some historical figures and ancient orders/customs mentioned briefly but with enough specifics for me to curiously fact check, and all the information included here was correct! It feels obvious to me that the author not only loves history but also CULTURE and everything that makes a people unique, and he inscribed his book with that love in a rich yet concise way that added DEEPLY to the story without ever slowing the pace.
Honestly, this book moves along at such a clip, there's never a chance for it to drag. Even when they're sightseeing or sharing their pasts. In fact, those were some of my favorite moments! Despite the series of successive missions, touching on the supernatural, fueled with tension and danger, there's still somehow plenty of time for quiet moments, for snark, for conversation, and for deep dives into character histories and how David and Sonny came to be where they are today.
David and Sonny, the heart of this story, two soldiers who signed up for more than they bargained for but finally finding a connection in one another. Their relationship is quick but intentional and doesn't feel rushed. They click so quickly and bond just as fast, their banter fitting together like a comfortable handshake. I really enjoyed their snark and quit wit, and all the mysteries surrounding their alien counterparts just added another layer of INTEREST to them. They and the cast of characters with them were all really well done.
Overall, this book pulls from familiar topics yet delivers them in an unfamiliar way with a fascinating *twist* on enhanced soldiers. Injected with alien DNA, hosts to things even the scientists don't understand. I continue to find this premise FASCINATING, and while I wanted to know more, I got juuust enough to scratch that itch, and I feel it's one subject that'll get even more screentime in future books. Something I dearly look forward to! In the meantime, I'll just say I found myself really enjoying Specimen early on, and that feeling never let up. It's fast-paced while being culturally and historically rich - an exhilarating DEI queer romance that deserves a vast amount of attention and respect, and I can only hope it gets all that it deserves! Will be following this author and looking forward to more books from him in the future!
November 20, 2025
The prose is quite good and the author has a talent for depicting action sequences. The cockney stuff was a little too caricatured for me. the first half of the book was extremely engaging but then they landed in London and then kinda.. drifted around aimlessly? There were missions that they were sent on, mostly to introduce side characters and probably start the larger storyline, but they were kinda floating in space and not well incorporated. The relationship had little chemistry and the banter mostly flat and relying on the trope that 'british speech is funny' and little else. I was very onboard and excited about this debut for the first half and lost almost all my steam for it in the second half.
Want to read
December 10, 2025Thank you for the gift, Baba Yaga's Little Imp!
March 9, 2025
What a wonderful debut novel by Quince! The blend of science fiction and mystery kept me hooked from start to finish.
The premise of the book is thrilling! David was left with alien DNA coursing through his veins, is on the run after escaping from a CIA lab when he encounters Sonny who gives David the choice to work with him or be killed. David chooses to work with Sonny.
The chemistry between these two was undeniable! David’s internal struggle between survival and morality, combined with his growing connection to Sonny, gives the book an emotional edge. Sonny is a particularly interesting character. He is funny, mysterious, and complex, which adds a layer to all of the interactions he has with David. Then there is the fact that the alien DNA they have recognizes the other!
Quince does a great job of building the suspense and leaving us hanging at just the right moments. There were twists and turns that kept me guessing, and the pacing was perfect.
I can’t wait to see what happens next with David and Sonny. Thank you, C. Quince for the ARC.
The premise of the book is thrilling! David was left with alien DNA coursing through his veins, is on the run after escaping from a CIA lab when he encounters Sonny who gives David the choice to work with him or be killed. David chooses to work with Sonny.
The chemistry between these two was undeniable! David’s internal struggle between survival and morality, combined with his growing connection to Sonny, gives the book an emotional edge. Sonny is a particularly interesting character. He is funny, mysterious, and complex, which adds a layer to all of the interactions he has with David. Then there is the fact that the alien DNA they have recognizes the other!
Quince does a great job of building the suspense and leaving us hanging at just the right moments. There were twists and turns that kept me guessing, and the pacing was perfect.
I can’t wait to see what happens next with David and Sonny. Thank you, C. Quince for the ARC.
March 14, 2025
4.5 stars. Great debut novel, with an intriguing mix of supernatural and a bit of science fiction and mystery thrown in. A whole lot of characters with heaps of every kind of diversity (gender, sexuality, race) are all written particularly well and fitting seamlessly into the story. David and Sonny have wonderful chemistry together, probably enhanced by their alien DNA but definitely also between themselves as humans. It's definitely a first part of a series, leaving more questions unanswered than expected but no awful cliffhanger. I'm really looking forward to the next book, and I really can't predict what could happen next.
June 8, 2025
5 I-need-to-convince-everyone-I-know-to-read-this stars
Everything about this book worked for me, from the relationship dynamic with its banter and vulnerable moments, to the POC representation and the overall humour, which had me chuckling frequently.
Reading about Sonny and his Sunshine had me properly enthralled. I cannot wait to learn more about them and what lies within them in the next book!
Everything about this book worked for me, from the relationship dynamic with its banter and vulnerable moments, to the POC representation and the overall humour, which had me chuckling frequently.
Reading about Sonny and his Sunshine had me properly enthralled. I cannot wait to learn more about them and what lies within them in the next book!
February 20, 2025
I enjoyed this book, the set up was good, it did seem to bite off a bit more than it should at the end. It left with many more questions rather than answers. BUT as the first in the series I hope it continues to grow! While I was a little confused at some of the choices made, the author definitely has a grasp on what makes secret agencies so interesting. I will be following this series, it has so much potential!
May 22, 2025
Amazing! I love spies and sci Fi and fantasy and gay romance and this was everything all in one book! can't wait to read the next one!
Read
November 18, 20253.5*, rounded up.
This was definitely nothing like what I expected it would be! The action and the worldbuilding was top notch, with the author having a clear understanding of what makes physical fighting and infiltration interesting, fun, and smooth to read. The characters have very unique and interesting personalities, natural dialogue, and overall, the build-up in the first 2/3rds of the book had me riveted. The pacing is a little off in the last 3rd but not enough to impact enjoyment.
The cast of characters is extremely diverse and unique, and it really feels like a glimpse into London's multiculturalism. I've never visited, but it made the place and the people feel real and alive.
Many mysteries are introduced in this book, and you have to be aware that not many of them will be answered by the end. As the first book in a series, you're just starting the journey, and it's important to keep that in mind. Also, I would say that its strength is in the storytelling, not in the romance, but I feel like that will grow and develop along with the series, too.
As a book, it was both entertaining and interesting as a debut, and I'm looking forward to seeing where this series goes from here!
This was definitely nothing like what I expected it would be! The action and the worldbuilding was top notch, with the author having a clear understanding of what makes physical fighting and infiltration interesting, fun, and smooth to read. The characters have very unique and interesting personalities, natural dialogue, and overall, the build-up in the first 2/3rds of the book had me riveted. The pacing is a little off in the last 3rd but not enough to impact enjoyment.
The cast of characters is extremely diverse and unique, and it really feels like a glimpse into London's multiculturalism. I've never visited, but it made the place and the people feel real and alive.
Many mysteries are introduced in this book, and you have to be aware that not many of them will be answered by the end. As the first book in a series, you're just starting the journey, and it's important to keep that in mind. Also, I would say that its strength is in the storytelling, not in the romance, but I feel like that will grow and develop along with the series, too.
As a book, it was both entertaining and interesting as a debut, and I'm looking forward to seeing where this series goes from here!
April 13, 2025
I knew the author though Bluesky, so I’ve been wanting to read this book for a while. I loved it. It’s an extremely well written book and I enjoyed all the Britishisms, which, ngl, is like a weakness for me.
The story revolves around David and Sonny. David is a former marine who’s on the run after escaping a CIA lab. Sonny is a British Intelligence agent who’s tasked with bringing David in for PRISM, the organisation he works for. If he can’t bring David in, he’s ordered to kill him.
Sonny and David are both subjects of experiments that saved their lives. They had both been poisoned fatally and had agreed to an experimental treatment that had saved their lives. What David doesn’t know and Sonny does, is that the experiment that saved their lives involved alien DNA, so they both have aliens inside them now.
Their first meeting is a fight and both of them feel an inexplicable recognition of each other, and an attraction as well. Sonny is openly gay and David is bi, though it’s not on his file. David wants to know more about the experiments and what was done to him, so he agrees to join Sonny’s team, which leads him into a world of supernatural that’s carefully hidden from everyone else.
I loved both the main characters in this. Sonny is a touch more interesting a personality than David whose personality doesn’t really shine for me. Sonny carries the book, his presence gives it life. Their pasts, of how they became poisoned, of how they became test subjects, are all revealed gradually, and there are more mysteries in waiting.
Sonny’s alien DNA is a touch more active than David’s and he has so many irons on the fire, which even PRISM doesn’t know about. His motivations are brought out better than David’s too.
The book is not action-packed, but there is enough action with the various missions, but there’s also enough breathing space for the characters to get to know each other, and for the reader to get to know them.
If you love Sci Fi books with a dash of spies and assassins and a lot of queer, you will love this book.
The story revolves around David and Sonny. David is a former marine who’s on the run after escaping a CIA lab. Sonny is a British Intelligence agent who’s tasked with bringing David in for PRISM, the organisation he works for. If he can’t bring David in, he’s ordered to kill him.
Sonny and David are both subjects of experiments that saved their lives. They had both been poisoned fatally and had agreed to an experimental treatment that had saved their lives. What David doesn’t know and Sonny does, is that the experiment that saved their lives involved alien DNA, so they both have aliens inside them now.
Their first meeting is a fight and both of them feel an inexplicable recognition of each other, and an attraction as well. Sonny is openly gay and David is bi, though it’s not on his file. David wants to know more about the experiments and what was done to him, so he agrees to join Sonny’s team, which leads him into a world of supernatural that’s carefully hidden from everyone else.
I loved both the main characters in this. Sonny is a touch more interesting a personality than David whose personality doesn’t really shine for me. Sonny carries the book, his presence gives it life. Their pasts, of how they became poisoned, of how they became test subjects, are all revealed gradually, and there are more mysteries in waiting.
Sonny’s alien DNA is a touch more active than David’s and he has so many irons on the fire, which even PRISM doesn’t know about. His motivations are brought out better than David’s too.
The book is not action-packed, but there is enough action with the various missions, but there’s also enough breathing space for the characters to get to know each other, and for the reader to get to know them.
If you love Sci Fi books with a dash of spies and assassins and a lot of queer, you will love this book.
December 13, 2025
4⭐
This was very good for a debut. The idea and MCs are great. There's action and mystery and the developing friendship. But I still have a lot of small niggles.
Like how the book is very long but doesn't really feel like a coherent whole. The story is obviously cut short and not in a meaningful spot. (I forgive this when it's Ginn Hale but not really for others.)
The sex is glossed over in a weird way, especially the first encounter. I don't necessarily need detailed smut, but it felt almost like a memory instead of things actually happening. And since my personal tastes don't really go for rough sex, I need to have some proper descriptions of the characters actually enjoying it to be able to enjoy it myself. The later scenes were better, but I still don't think the sex is the strength of this book.
Some of the PoVs are completely unnecessary. Mostly we follow David and then some Sonny, but there's a chapter or two for several minor characters too. I think it was a decent choice to get some past PoVs instead of a long-winded dicussion about Sonny's history but after that the extra PoVs felt redundant.
Some phrases are repeated to the point of being distracting and maybe even annoying. Sonny titters 13 times and there's a 14th for other characters. Quipping is mentioned 58 times! I appreciate some clarity in discourse, I have noticed I sometimes lose track of who is speaking when the lines just keep alternating without further clarifications. But here I noticed several occasions where there was exactly two people in a discussion, and every single line still included "X said", "Y quipped", etc.
I often get hung up on repetition, so it's partly "a me issue". I didn't think the writing was generally bad at all and I'll happily read the sequel. I really want to know what's going to happen with the alien DNA and the leading dumbasses. All the other niggles are also small ones. So, this was imperfect, but still very promising.
This was very good for a debut. The idea and MCs are great. There's action and mystery and the developing friendship. But I still have a lot of small niggles.
Like how the book is very long but doesn't really feel like a coherent whole. The story is obviously cut short and not in a meaningful spot. (I forgive this when it's Ginn Hale but not really for others.)
The sex is glossed over in a weird way, especially the first encounter. I don't necessarily need detailed smut, but it felt almost like a memory instead of things actually happening. And since my personal tastes don't really go for rough sex, I need to have some proper descriptions of the characters actually enjoying it to be able to enjoy it myself. The later scenes were better, but I still don't think the sex is the strength of this book.
Some of the PoVs are completely unnecessary. Mostly we follow David and then some Sonny, but there's a chapter or two for several minor characters too. I think it was a decent choice to get some past PoVs instead of a long-winded dicussion about Sonny's history but after that the extra PoVs felt redundant.
Some phrases are repeated to the point of being distracting and maybe even annoying. Sonny titters 13 times and there's a 14th for other characters. Quipping is mentioned 58 times! I appreciate some clarity in discourse, I have noticed I sometimes lose track of who is speaking when the lines just keep alternating without further clarifications. But here I noticed several occasions where there was exactly two people in a discussion, and every single line still included "X said", "Y quipped", etc.
I often get hung up on repetition, so it's partly "a me issue". I didn't think the writing was generally bad at all and I'll happily read the sequel. I really want to know what's going to happen with the alien DNA and the leading dumbasses. All the other niggles are also small ones. So, this was imperfect, but still very promising.
March 14, 2025
I saw the beautiful cover on social media and immediately knew that I had to read this book!
It was very entertaining and a bit different from what I usually read.
For a book with rather serious topics this was very light and funny.
I really liked how diverse the book is when it comes to characters.
David is bisexual. His father was Mexican, his mother white.
Sonny is gay and Iranian.
There are more side characters with all kinds of skin colors and religions.
Their relationship developed greatly! They had an instant connection not only romantically but basically they just liked each other. And then there came the otherworldy connection as well to make their connection whole.
There is a lot of banter in the book.
The book is rather slow in the overall pace but has some fast action packed scenes.
Some scenes weren’t necessary for me (like the barber). They showed the relationship between the MCs and also between them and the side characters. So they had their place in the book and most of them were entertaining nonetheless.
Also there was so much food eaten. It makes me uncomfortable but I read reviews of other books that complained about the lack of meals in romance, so maybe the author took that to heart.
The whole alien DNA thing reminded me a bit of Agents of Shield! Also with the secret agency and some other paranormal beings mixed in.
I’m so here for that!
The book has a lot of focus on the Science Fiction. It isn't just a side thing for the romance.
It is the first in a series, so of course it leaves some questions open and I’m looking forward to the next book.
A big thanks to the author for a copy of the book!
And I'm sorry that my review is a bit past the publication date, but something in my personal life made me loose a lot of focus for a few days.
It was very entertaining and a bit different from what I usually read.
For a book with rather serious topics this was very light and funny.
I really liked how diverse the book is when it comes to characters.
David is bisexual. His father was Mexican, his mother white.
Sonny is gay and Iranian.
There are more side characters with all kinds of skin colors and religions.
Their relationship developed greatly! They had an instant connection not only romantically but basically they just liked each other. And then there came the otherworldy connection as well to make their connection whole.
There is a lot of banter in the book.
The book is rather slow in the overall pace but has some fast action packed scenes.
Some scenes weren’t necessary for me (like the barber). They showed the relationship between the MCs and also between them and the side characters. So they had their place in the book and most of them were entertaining nonetheless.
Also there was so much food eaten. It makes me uncomfortable but I read reviews of other books that complained about the lack of meals in romance, so maybe the author took that to heart.
The whole alien DNA thing reminded me a bit of Agents of Shield! Also with the secret agency and some other paranormal beings mixed in.
I’m so here for that!
The book has a lot of focus on the Science Fiction. It isn't just a side thing for the romance.
It is the first in a series, so of course it leaves some questions open and I’m looking forward to the next book.
A big thanks to the author for a copy of the book!
And I'm sorry that my review is a bit past the publication date, but something in my personal life made me loose a lot of focus for a few days.
March 11, 2025
This book was out of this world different then I assumed it would be.
This book aligns in the vein of supernatural, alien, x-files, Men in black and secret society.
You work through this book mainly as David, the Mexican-American vet on the run for his life. Ans you slowly start peeling back the layers of what happened to David with the help of the sassy AF Brit who has an ultimatum placed on him by his secret agency.
Now, while this book is not fully engrossed into the romance aspect, it does give you the lust, flirty banter and extra special reason for their closeness throughout the book. There are some spicy scenes though so don't worry too much.
But honestly, this book doesn't really need that much spice to keep it interesting. When you think you finally understand what's going on.... you don't lol. you get a lot of fight and weapon scenes are very well executed and keep the story flowing. As both MMCs are specially trained ex military, they have killer moves to show off as well as get hot and heavy over.
This book is a non-stop moving around due to the nature of their work. The world building helps give our MMCs a break and give us, as the readers, travelers envy with the sight David and Sonny see.
This book will continuously keep you on your toes as you seek answers with David and what's inside of him. While book 1 really leaves you on a small cliffhanger/ HFN.. it's the epilogue I think most of us would be the most curious about. Which is a brilliant segue into the next book and beyond.
If you are looking for snarky British banter, compelling lust, weapon fancy, Alien-Action fight scenes with a huge helping of government dabbling then this book is totally for you.
Just don't get trapped in the lab alright?
This book aligns in the vein of supernatural, alien, x-files, Men in black and secret society.
You work through this book mainly as David, the Mexican-American vet on the run for his life. Ans you slowly start peeling back the layers of what happened to David with the help of the sassy AF Brit who has an ultimatum placed on him by his secret agency.
Now, while this book is not fully engrossed into the romance aspect, it does give you the lust, flirty banter and extra special reason for their closeness throughout the book. There are some spicy scenes though so don't worry too much.
But honestly, this book doesn't really need that much spice to keep it interesting. When you think you finally understand what's going on.... you don't lol. you get a lot of fight and weapon scenes are very well executed and keep the story flowing. As both MMCs are specially trained ex military, they have killer moves to show off as well as get hot and heavy over.
This book is a non-stop moving around due to the nature of their work. The world building helps give our MMCs a break and give us, as the readers, travelers envy with the sight David and Sonny see.
This book will continuously keep you on your toes as you seek answers with David and what's inside of him. While book 1 really leaves you on a small cliffhanger/ HFN.. it's the epilogue I think most of us would be the most curious about. Which is a brilliant segue into the next book and beyond.
If you are looking for snarky British banter, compelling lust, weapon fancy, Alien-Action fight scenes with a huge helping of government dabbling then this book is totally for you.
Just don't get trapped in the lab alright?
March 10, 2025
From the moment you realise that David is on the run from the government after having alien DNA injected into him. Sonny has to be ordered to either bring him into their team or kill him, well you can guess which one David chose?
Sonny was such a refreshing change from the stereotypical posh boys that you usually get when MI6 is mentioned. With his sense of humour and his cockney accent, the more I read, the more I could hear him speaking in my head. The connection between Sonny and David was believable and the closer they got the more you learn about them.
This was such a gripping read with loveable characters, that I was engrossed in it from the first page. With action from the start, I don't want to ruin it for you but you are in for a story that is full of mystery and suspense with a paranormal twist, the story flows smoothly and before I was halfway through reading it, I knew that I wanted more of David and Sonny. I liked them so much I cannot wait for more.
Sonny was such a refreshing change from the stereotypical posh boys that you usually get when MI6 is mentioned. With his sense of humour and his cockney accent, the more I read, the more I could hear him speaking in my head. The connection between Sonny and David was believable and the closer they got the more you learn about them.
This was such a gripping read with loveable characters, that I was engrossed in it from the first page. With action from the start, I don't want to ruin it for you but you are in for a story that is full of mystery and suspense with a paranormal twist, the story flows smoothly and before I was halfway through reading it, I knew that I wanted more of David and Sonny. I liked them so much I cannot wait for more.
March 15, 2025
What a fab story from a new-to-me author! I don't believe I've read another book that depicts a complex, diverse world with such skill: culture, heritage, gender, sexuality, species, food—it's all here. I get the impression that the author crafted this story from love, and it seems I was starving for it. I'm a slow reader because of my sight issues, but I couldn't put the story down.
The facts: Poor David has been injected with alien DNA (!) and is AWOL from the CIA lab where this occurs. He encounters Sonny, and the two navigate their glowing chemistry and attraction while maintaining their humanity, not to mention staying alive. I really enjoyed both characters and I look forward to more in the future. Hopefully, the author is cracking on with the next book.
And, the cover is perfect. It reminds me of those test-tube aliens...
5 extra terrestrial stars from me!
The facts: Poor David has been injected with alien DNA (!) and is AWOL from the CIA lab where this occurs. He encounters Sonny, and the two navigate their glowing chemistry and attraction while maintaining their humanity, not to mention staying alive. I really enjoyed both characters and I look forward to more in the future. Hopefully, the author is cracking on with the next book.
And, the cover is perfect. It reminds me of those test-tube aliens...
5 extra terrestrial stars from me!
April 23, 2025
I stumbled on this title while doom-scrolling on Threads, and I'm glad I did. First, I don't read much MM romance, not for want of it, but because I just have no idea where to look. Well, look no further, because C. Quince delivers.
The cast of characters is wide and entertaining. I liked it. Sonny and David as MCs work very well too. The story reads well, and I was eager to learn more about the background of both Sonny and David. This is book 1 in a series, and we are left without some answers, however, you can pick this book up without worrying.
If you like:
- Sci-fi (yes, there are some Aliens in there)
- Romance (MM - open-door)
- Adventures
- Gunfights/Knifefights and just fights
- Have no problem with blood and bullets
This one is for you.
The cast of characters is wide and entertaining. I liked it. Sonny and David as MCs work very well too. The story reads well, and I was eager to learn more about the background of both Sonny and David. This is book 1 in a series, and we are left without some answers, however, you can pick this book up without worrying.
If you like:
- Sci-fi (yes, there are some Aliens in there)
- Romance (MM - open-door)
- Adventures
- Gunfights/Knifefights and just fights
- Have no problem with blood and bullets
This one is for you.
February 6, 2025
Thank you to the author for kindly giving me an ARC.
This book was such a fun read! I loved the narrative and it really did feel like an episode of the X-Files, in the best way. David and Sonny were both really dynamic and interesting characters and I liked how their relationship progressed organically throughout the novel. All of the background/supporting characters had their own unique stories and personalities, and it made the book so much more compelling. I really liked the amount of diversity and unique characters. The ending left me wanting to so badly know what happens next and I cannot wait!
This book was such a fun read! I loved the narrative and it really did feel like an episode of the X-Files, in the best way. David and Sonny were both really dynamic and interesting characters and I liked how their relationship progressed organically throughout the novel. All of the background/supporting characters had their own unique stories and personalities, and it made the book so much more compelling. I really liked the amount of diversity and unique characters. The ending left me wanting to so badly know what happens next and I cannot wait!
February 22, 2025
4.5 ⭐
The first foray into the PRISM Agents universe and what a ride!
Action, intrigue, shadowy government agencies, paranormal entities, and the bi-racial queer MCs in the midst of it all.
The plot is interesting, the characters entertaining, and there's just the right amount of steam between the MCs.
What secrets does their alien DNA hold and what is this strange connection drawing them together?
This novel is the first in the series and ends on a quasi-cliffhanger/HFN.
I'm looking forward to the rest of this series and more time with Sonny and David.
The first foray into the PRISM Agents universe and what a ride!
Action, intrigue, shadowy government agencies, paranormal entities, and the bi-racial queer MCs in the midst of it all.
The plot is interesting, the characters entertaining, and there's just the right amount of steam between the MCs.
What secrets does their alien DNA hold and what is this strange connection drawing them together?
This novel is the first in the series and ends on a quasi-cliffhanger/HFN.
I'm looking forward to the rest of this series and more time with Sonny and David.
August 27, 2025
This was a DNF at Chapter 4. I really wanted to get into this book because the snippet sounded good, but when the main guy’s name is written 67 times in Chapter 1, 52 times in Chapter 2, etc it just became ‘David did this, David did that, David…’. Ugh, stop telling us what David did and start showing us. I don’t even think there were 67 paragraphs in Chapter 1. Even a rewrite of exchanging a few Davids with ‘he’ or ‘him’ would greatly help and a handful of shows vs tells would get this book on the right track.
March 10, 2025
Specimen is the debut novel from C. Quince. I received an ARC from the author. David is on the run from the CIA and it turns out it's because he has alien DNA in his system following a medical test due to him being on death's door due to a mission. He's ready to come in from the cold for the right reason and Sonny via the British agency PRISM gives him a reason due to an unexpected closeness. Shenanigans ensue as David joins PRISM as well and they begin completing missions together. As they draw closer together, they continue to feel like they are connected by more than their own desires. Filled with diverse representation, this is overall a fun debut with an excellent cliff hanger. I have some minor concerns over the pacing but the character development and humor make this book worth reading.
March 11, 2025
A FABULOUS AND FANTASTIC DEBUT NOVEL!
I am absolutely blown away by this read. The book has amazing pacing and a page turning story. There is so much going on in this story that I loved how unique this story is. I loved Sonny and David, their chemistry, banter, and relationship. Definitely can not wait for more from this author.
I am absolutely blown away by this read. The book has amazing pacing and a page turning story. There is so much going on in this story that I loved how unique this story is. I loved Sonny and David, their chemistry, banter, and relationship. Definitely can not wait for more from this author.
July 13, 2025
Not my cup of tea. I liked the premise, but the execution failed to deliver. I found the pacing poor, the dialogues stilted, the chemistry lacking, and the characters very bland. The whole alien element might as well not have been there, so little of it we got to explore. YMMV, but this was not the story for me.
March 11, 2025
wow, wasn't expecting this. i love it great read and it keeps you on your toes wanting to know whats next. the whole universe here is amazing and unexpected from others in the same genre. cant wait for more keep up the great work.
did-not-finish
March 29, 2025DNF @ 57% - I was really enjoying this book. And then they went back to the UK and there were flashbacks and nothing was happening and I just lost interest.
November 13, 2025
2.5 stars
Too much telling, and too many extraneous details. The series has potential though.
Read on Kobo Plus.
Too much telling, and too many extraneous details. The series has potential though.
Read on Kobo Plus.
March 19, 2025
This is going to be a great series of it continues to be as good as this one. I couldn't put this down until I finished it. Can't wait to read the next book.
February 25, 2025
Specimen is the author's debut novel. I have to say that I liked the writing, the plot, the characters are well developed. It mixes the typical spy novel with fantasy elements, although it takes them to the realm of science fiction.
It is the first novel in the series, which apparently will focus on a single couple, David and Sonny, so I hope to see more romantic development.
David is an army veteran, who is in the private sector. In one of those jobs, he is poisoned, with no chance of recovery, so in his stay in the hospital waiting for the end, he is offered the chance to participate in an experimental project. I like how the author characterizes the character, between two worlds, both because he is the son of a marriage between a Mexican and an American, he is bisexual (Oh, there is no bi awakening, which I appreciate, because the bi rep is necessary).
Sonny is a spy (for lack of a better term) Englishman who belongs to PRISM, who is in charge of recruiting David.
I won't tell more. Read it, it's full of action, romance and food.
Looking forward to know how the story continues.
It is the first novel in the series, which apparently will focus on a single couple, David and Sonny, so I hope to see more romantic development.
David is an army veteran, who is in the private sector. In one of those jobs, he is poisoned, with no chance of recovery, so in his stay in the hospital waiting for the end, he is offered the chance to participate in an experimental project. I like how the author characterizes the character, between two worlds, both because he is the son of a marriage between a Mexican and an American, he is bisexual (Oh, there is no bi awakening, which I appreciate, because the bi rep is necessary).
Sonny is a spy (for lack of a better term) Englishman who belongs to PRISM, who is in charge of recruiting David.
I won't tell more. Read it, it's full of action, romance and food.
Looking forward to know how the story continues.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews