What do you think?
Rate this book
Stranded by Lies
Dear Author,
I’d been running from him for so many months, it had begun to feel like a reflex, no different than the instinct to fight for breath when you’re underwater or rip back your hand from a red-hot forge. By the time I got to the market town, I could feel my time running out. I don’t know why— an instinct maybe? Or maybe I was just so tired of running. I thought I could outlast him, I thought he would give up. I’d not counted on how much the predator in him would love the chase. There were times, while I huddled in my nightly hiding place, when I could almost feel his glee at the challenge, his satisfaction as he went about closing off every avenue of escape— seducing my family to his side, convincing my friends that I was mad, that he just wanted to protect me. There were times, usually on the coldest nights, when I wondered if he’s right— maybe I am mad. Maybe I do belong to him. Maybe I should surrender. Maybe I should stop running. At least then I could just rest.
Photo Description:
A young man lies on the floor, his only clothing a shirt, unbuttoned to reveal his lean frame. His dark hair lays in wisps upon his shoulders. His wrists are loosely bound by a silken red ribbon, but he’s peaceful, his pose suggesting he has bound himself. Perhaps he has offered his submission to the man towering above him, straddling his waist? The scene is set for a dark seduction, but who is seducing whom?
This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love’s Landscapes" event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.
This story may contain sexually explicit content and is intended for adult readers. It may contain content that is disagreeable or distressing to some readers. The M/M Romance Group strongly recommends that each reader review the General Information section before each story for story tags as well as for content warnings.
I’d been running from him for so many months, it had begun to feel like a reflex, no different than the instinct to fight for breath when you’re underwater or rip back your hand from a red-hot forge. By the time I got to the market town, I could feel my time running out. I don’t know why— an instinct maybe? Or maybe I was just so tired of running. I thought I could outlast him, I thought he would give up. I’d not counted on how much the predator in him would love the chase. There were times, while I huddled in my nightly hiding place, when I could almost feel his glee at the challenge, his satisfaction as he went about closing off every avenue of escape— seducing my family to his side, convincing my friends that I was mad, that he just wanted to protect me. There were times, usually on the coldest nights, when I wondered if he’s right— maybe I am mad. Maybe I do belong to him. Maybe I should surrender. Maybe I should stop running. At least then I could just rest.
Photo Description:
A young man lies on the floor, his only clothing a shirt, unbuttoned to reveal his lean frame. His dark hair lays in wisps upon his shoulders. His wrists are loosely bound by a silken red ribbon, but he’s peaceful, his pose suggesting he has bound himself. Perhaps he has offered his submission to the man towering above him, straddling his waist? The scene is set for a dark seduction, but who is seducing whom?
This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love’s Landscapes" event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.
This story may contain sexually explicit content and is intended for adult readers. It may contain content that is disagreeable or distressing to some readers. The M/M Romance Group strongly recommends that each reader review the General Information section before each story for story tags as well as for content warnings.
124 pages, ebook
First published July 23, 2014
12 people are currently reading
337 people want to read
About the author
Finn Marlowe
8 books448 followersFinn Marlowe is a paralegal by day and erotic (M/M) romance novelist by night. She believes daydreaming is a vastly underrated pastime and probably spends way too much time at it. Her kids no longer ask what’s wrong when they spy her staring off into space—they just assume she’s writing a scene from her next novel and they’re probably right. Paranormal romance is her favorite genre to write, and the story’s usually on the dark side because she still believes in things that go bump in the night.
Finn calls British Columbia home and when she’s not enjoying the beautiful outdoors, she’s inside reading or resenting the fact her kids are better video game players than she is. If there were more hours in the day, she’d like to become a better artist, a greener gardener and learn to speak Spanish. Since she believes all dreams are possible if you don’t give up on them, she expects to regain her video game hi-scores, naturally vanquish all garden pests and finally paint what lives inside her imagination. As for speaking Spanish, well, she’ll settle for learning to pronounce all the good curse words.
Finn calls British Columbia home and when she’s not enjoying the beautiful outdoors, she’s inside reading or resenting the fact her kids are better video game players than she is. If there were more hours in the day, she’d like to become a better artist, a greener gardener and learn to speak Spanish. Since she believes all dreams are possible if you don’t give up on them, she expects to regain her video game hi-scores, naturally vanquish all garden pests and finally paint what lives inside her imagination. As for speaking Spanish, well, she’ll settle for learning to pronounce all the good curse words.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
July 27, 2014
"Are you lonely, Aiden?"
…"Not anymore," he answered.
Did this thing ever start off with a BANG!
"Don't say anything," he ordered. "it's true and we both know it. I don't give a fuck how young you are, and I'm not going to fight it anymore. You're mine now, and I'm going to own you. I'm going to fuck you until you can't walk, until you're so sore you'll be begging to suck my cock so I'll leave you alone for five minutes."
Faptastic Angry Sex! I tell ya that Aiden has a dirty, filthy mouth.
For those not as keen on the smexy times as I there was an actual story with a plot and everything. Aiden and Jase have known each other all of Jase's life. Aiden is half Vish/half human. The Vish's lifespan is quite a bit longer than that of a human. Jase has crushed on Aiden for years and has given up hope of him reciprocating his feelings. The events that transpired which lead up to Jase going on the run also propel the story forward once Aiden tracks him down.
You see, they have to go on a mission which involves a road trip on Route 66. This was like a trip down memory lane for me. I love road trips. The trip to Santa Fe has become somewhat of a Christmas tradition, so when I read Tucumcari, I squeaked. I've been to the Cadillac cemetery and stopped to see the petroglyphs. The music was an excellent accompaniment for any decent road trip, so Stranded by Lies made me a bit nostalgic.
The glimpse we get into the Vish as a society is imaginative and one I wouldn't mind exploring further. I'm always amazed by those creative types who can envision these things. Finn did an excellent job of translating her ideas to the page. The action/adventure aspects were entertaining with all the cryptic clues and whatnot.
Jase is hilarious! Aiden aka ginger bossy dude is bossy. He's also patient, so not an alpha hole.
Jesus. What the hell was wrong with me? No way did I have an inner submissive dying to get out- and if I did, I was going to kill him. With fire.
Aiden and Jase's relationship is complex and beautiful. Not a drop of instalove. They're both gaga about each other and that oozes off the page.
The dialogue is fresh and funny. The story captivated me. The ending is… sort of cliffy. Well, maybe open-ended is more accurate. All of it was great, great, great, but the sex…
My secret desire was no longer secret. I was his. Tied, dominated, and used. My body wasn't mine anymore, it was Aiden's.
Scoot! Get to reading it already. ;)
Thanks to Finn and her team for this addition to the LL event.
January 15, 2015
Well that was a complete and total rush! First off, this was my prompt, and I don't have words for how thrilled I was at the story that evolved from it. I wish I could take some credit, but there's just no way--the story that resulted was like nothing I'd imagined, or could ever have imagined, and yet I am really excited that I had at least a tiny part in it.
I loved everything about Stranded by Lies, but what overwhelmed me the most was what I'll call (for lack of a more precise term) the "mental intimacy" between Jason and Aiden. It was more than just their erotic connection, (which was scorching by the way.) The narrative was able to convey so much history between them, which gave an intensity and complexity and emotional depth to their relationship that you rarely find. It infused the entire story with an energy that went beyond the details of the plot and the world-building, both of which were fantastic. They really felt alive to me, and joined that small pantheon of fictional characters that you carry around with you like people you actually know.
Anyway, I can't thank Finn enough for choosing my prompt and blowing me away with this. And I CANNOT WAIT for the sequel!
I loved everything about Stranded by Lies, but what overwhelmed me the most was what I'll call (for lack of a more precise term) the "mental intimacy" between Jason and Aiden. It was more than just their erotic connection, (which was scorching by the way.) The narrative was able to convey so much history between them, which gave an intensity and complexity and emotional depth to their relationship that you rarely find. It infused the entire story with an energy that went beyond the details of the plot and the world-building, both of which were fantastic. They really felt alive to me, and joined that small pantheon of fictional characters that you carry around with you like people you actually know.
Anyway, I can't thank Finn enough for choosing my prompt and blowing me away with this. And I CANNOT WAIT for the sequel!
August 9, 2014
Hot damn, you prompt...
And then that first scene of the story. It gave off dub-con vibes and was explicit. It had calloused hands and CMNM. It had good dirty talk from an arrogant son of a bitch who appeared to be raised according to Raising Boys Feminists Will Hate.
Unfortunately, Day-thief was right (and if there’s something I can’t stand....nah, I kid.;)) for saying it was "all for show". It totally was, SIGH. Shame that the tangled web that got woven in an attempt to follow the prompt, became a mess of stuff that made little sense and, IMnotsohumbleO, offered little in terms of clever plotting and 'OMG, how awesome is this?!' moments.
You’d think that the realization that Scientology Church was right after all, that aliens did connect with us at some point and are, in fact, still among us, could make for quite a story. But I have to say, it seems rather unnecessary to introduce an alien race when they don’t act and behave alien at all. Aiden, who I’d pegged for a dominant asshole in the first scene, turns out to be little more than a horny half-alien acting like a teen. Make that a love-sick and horny half-alien. Exactly how love-sick became apparent when the POV switched to Aiden, who put it to use by blabbing on and on about Jason...
Someone should give that guy a stage.
He wasn’t nearly done yet BTW. But I am.
On second thought... my personal favorite low...
That pick-up line makes me gag harder than alien cock ever could.
And then the story stopped abruptly, there was no end. No doubt so it can be followed by an official sequel later on. I’m not sure if this is the kind of move that’s in the spirit of the M/M Romance Group event, but ah well..
Après moi et Not His Kiss To Take le déluge. :)
And then that first scene of the story. It gave off dub-con vibes and was explicit. It had calloused hands and CMNM. It had good dirty talk from an arrogant son of a bitch who appeared to be raised according to Raising Boys Feminists Will Hate.
Unfortunately, Day-thief was right (and if there’s something I can’t stand....nah, I kid.;)) for saying it was "all for show". It totally was, SIGH. Shame that the tangled web that got woven in an attempt to follow the prompt, became a mess of stuff that made little sense and, IMnotsohumbleO, offered little in terms of clever plotting and 'OMG, how awesome is this?!' moments.
You’d think that the realization that Scientology Church was right after all, that aliens did connect with us at some point and are, in fact, still among us, could make for quite a story. But I have to say, it seems rather unnecessary to introduce an alien race when they don’t act and behave alien at all. Aiden, who I’d pegged for a dominant asshole in the first scene, turns out to be little more than a horny half-alien acting like a teen. Make that a love-sick and horny half-alien. Exactly how love-sick became apparent when the POV switched to Aiden, who put it to use by blabbing on and on about Jason...
(...)..leaving him alone to sleep meant I couldn’t kiss him..Jase had the most sensual mouth I’d ever seen. Those beautiful, full, pouty lips didn’t match the rest of his face whatsoever. Jase wasn’t handsome in a classic sense, or beautiful, he was..cute. There really wasn’t another word for him, but that plain silly word failed to do him justice. When he smiled that crooked, disarming smile of his, his whole face lit up..(...) Why was sex with Jase so amazing? Because no sex is better than sex with someone you love. Jason's lips were swollen, shiny, and dark-red. His eyes looked...
Someone should give that guy a stage.
He wasn’t nearly done yet BTW. But I am.
On second thought... my personal favorite low...
"That’s so good," I moaned. "Now I know why only two men have had you."
His big, dark-blue eyes popped open.
"They never need to make it farther than your mouth to find heaven."
That pick-up line makes me gag harder than alien cock ever could.
And then the story stopped abruptly, there was no end. No doubt so it can be followed by an official sequel later on. I’m not sure if this is the kind of move that’s in the spirit of the M/M Romance Group event, but ah well..
Après moi et Not His Kiss To Take le déluge. :)
August 13, 2014
Snap, Crackle and POP!
Is what happens when an alien overlord and a smart-mouthed cutie collide.
Dang. That is one seriously hardcore start. Ground the gears a couple times flying from zero to totally fucked. And then stripped them going from overdrive to cruise control. Jason and Aidan have got some history and what unfolds allows for a 180 in interactions. That said, even when the dub-con/non-con elements evanesce there's still this rough, hands on, fingerprint bruising, skull-fucking, thank-you-sir-may-I-have-another when I can move coupling.
Amidst all this smexitude is the quest. Yes, a QUEST! Something lost leads to more than one find. The story has an ending that leaves room for expansion. Don't think I'm not on to you, Marlowe! STILL waiting for the add-ons to last year's dish. It's a complete story, but there could be more.
Overall, a sci-fi adventure with some earthy, primal loving and a whisper of D/s.
Favorite quote:
Is what happens when an alien overlord and a smart-mouthed cutie collide.
Dang. That is one seriously hardcore start. Ground the gears a couple times flying from zero to totally fucked. And then stripped them going from overdrive to cruise control. Jason and Aidan have got some history and what unfolds allows for a 180 in interactions. That said, even when the dub-con/non-con elements evanesce there's still this rough, hands on, fingerprint bruising, skull-fucking, thank-you-sir-may-I-have-another when I can move coupling.
Amidst all this smexitude is the quest. Yes, a QUEST! Something lost leads to more than one find. The story has an ending that leaves room for expansion. Don't think I'm not on to you, Marlowe! STILL waiting for the add-ons to last year's dish. It's a complete story, but there could be more.
Overall, a sci-fi adventure with some earthy, primal loving and a whisper of D/s.
Favorite quote:
No way did I have an inner submissive dying to get out— and if I did, I was going to kill him. With fire.
July 31, 2014
A great story, and boy does Marlowe know how to writez hot sex! And dirty talk!
One thing puzzles me
One thing puzzles me
March 3, 2015
4.5
A bossy alpha with a serious talent for dirty talk and a boy who protests too much, but secretly loves it all.
And man, did they argue. Aiden knew exactly how to handle Jason, though, and all those hot emotions often led to some fiery sex. The bickering, the bantering, it was all so well done. I was impressed with all the dialogue, actually, especially Jason's. He cracked me up with some of his comments and thoughts.
The world Finn created was fascinating, with aliens living on Earth, hidden from most humans. It took me awhile to understand the timeline because information came slowly, in bits and pieces, but as I learned more of the back story, things became more clear.
The story itself was intriguing and kept my interest. I can't wait to read more, and based on the ending of this story, we'll be getting more. OMG, tell me we are getting more!!!
Favorite quote:
Side notes:
"vichyssoise"...*snicker*
I liked getting Aiden's POV, but after being in Jason's head for so long, it took awhile to get used to a new voice, especially because Aiden's thoughts were milder than I expected, not quite as bossy. Which makes sense because he wouldn't think he was bossy, but Jason totally would :)
A bossy alpha with a serious talent for dirty talk and a boy who protests too much, but secretly loves it all.
“Are you hard? Again?”
“No,” I muttered.
“Liar.”
And man, did they argue. Aiden knew exactly how to handle Jason, though, and all those hot emotions often led to some fiery sex. The bickering, the bantering, it was all so well done. I was impressed with all the dialogue, actually, especially Jason's. He cracked me up with some of his comments and thoughts.
The world Finn created was fascinating, with aliens living on Earth, hidden from most humans. It took me awhile to understand the timeline because information came slowly, in bits and pieces, but as I learned more of the back story, things became more clear.
The story itself was intriguing and kept my interest. I can't wait to read more, and based on the ending of this story, we'll be getting more. OMG, tell me we are getting more!!!
Favorite quote:
"Are you lonely, Aiden?"
..."Not anymore," he answered.
Side notes:
"vichyssoise"...*snicker*
I liked getting Aiden's POV, but after being in Jason's head for so long, it took awhile to get used to a new voice, especially because Aiden's thoughts were milder than I expected, not quite as bossy. Which makes sense because he wouldn't think he was bossy, but Jason totally would :)
January 28, 2024
Does the ending mean we are going to have a sequel? Not that this story will suffer if there isn't one, but - hell! - this can be such an awesome ride!
More, please! I am totally not beneath begging :D
Imagine Stargate, only the gate doesn't open in this book. Yet the possibility exists, and whatever comes through it might not be very friendly. However, to ask for assistance from other species against the baddies MCs must find the key to the gate to keep it open.
Just a little warning: there is a serious dub-con in the very beginning, but don't be fooled! That's exactly what the little human wants(!) and needs ;)
More, please! I am totally not beneath begging :D
Imagine Stargate, only the gate doesn't open in this book. Yet the possibility exists, and whatever comes through it might not be very friendly. However, to ask for assistance from other species against the baddies MCs must find the key to the gate to keep it open.
Just a little warning: there is a serious dub-con in the very beginning, but don't be fooled! That's exactly what the little human wants(!) and needs ;)
April 13, 2017
Offered for FREE from the M/M Romance Group's Love's Landscapes event. Thank you too all the amazing authors who participated!
Oh La La, that prompt! And then that first scene had me in shivers it was so fucking hot. The scene basically takes place at the end of the prompt, so Aiden has finally just caught Jason. Although after that there were some detours.
I was a little confused as to the circumstances, relationships, and time-line. I'm not sure if that was a choice from the author, but I decided to just go with it and figured all would be revealed.
One problem I had was that the relationship that was portrayed between Aiden and Jason didn't seem to match that first scene. For example, Aiden being a big protective softy about Jason... yet he was pretty rough and smacked him around some initially (may have been justified, but you see my point).
Then of course the somewhat lack of an ending. I appreciate that it's a complex issue. But I actually skimmed that lengthy drawn-out cave-searching scene because I wanted to get to the conflict and resolution... and there kinda wasn't one. And the author switched from show to tell regarding the bond. What was the point if it's not going to be a conversation?
But despite those complaints, I think the plot was interesting and the sex was smokin' hot.
May 2, 2018
Just spectacular!
I almost never give a book this short five stars, but boy did it earn each and every one of them.
The characters were so well done, and I loved the alternating POV in the middle chapter - and the timing for it was perfect.
Damn, that opening scene was amazing - if you like a good dub-con, this was one of the best I've ever read.
Thank you MMRG, the Love's Landscapes event, and most especially thank you to Lilia Ford for putting together such a wonderful story letter to inspire Finn Marlowe to write it!
Oh, and I almost forgot to add - props for the Bugs Bunny reference.
I almost never give a book this short five stars, but boy did it earn each and every one of them.
The characters were so well done, and I loved the alternating POV in the middle chapter - and the timing for it was perfect.
Damn, that opening scene was amazing - if you like a good dub-con, this was one of the best I've ever read.
Thank you MMRG, the Love's Landscapes event, and most especially thank you to Lilia Ford for putting together such a wonderful story letter to inspire Finn Marlowe to write it!
Oh, and I almost forgot to add - props for the Bugs Bunny reference.
July 23, 2014
Starts out with a... *heh* bang. All manner of thrills throughout the ride, I'm dizzy, yet happy!
December 6, 2014
Wow Finn...you said it was different to your normal stuff, you weren't kidding!! Loved it. 5 stars.
Can't really describe it as sci-fi or futuristic, as it's set in today's world, but it features aliens who have been stranded on our planet by a human who had gotten fed up of the 'Vish' thinking themselves superior to us measly humans, and decided to take a few of them out and then hides one of the keys to their 'Stargate' so that the rest of them get stranded here. Trouble is, the Vish really are trying to protect us Earthlings from the real baddies, the 'G-Reth', who actually eat the races they conquer..they want no competition!!
There are people who straddle both worlds (world building was excellent btw), Aiden being one of the stranded Vish and half human, and Jase, whose grandfather Morgan was the guy who originally hid the key. Aiden has been watching over Jase for many years, and is in lust/love with him now he's all grown up, but Jase has real problems accepting and dealing with Aiden's domineering ways, and he takes off, leaving Aiden to chase him all over the planet. Sex-wise and every other wise...Aiden is an Alpha with a capital A, and when he finally catches up with Jase, watch out, sparks fly 'I'm in love with your ass. I can't wait to have it'. [Talking of sex, what there was of it was hawt...as you would expect from a Finn Marlowe story.]
Do Aiden and Jase finally manage to decipher Morgan's clues and work out where the key has been hidden?? Does Jase learn to like wearing cuffs and being at Aiden's mercy??<-----OH YES!! Do the real baddies catch up with our guys.....find out for yourselves readers, this is a cliffie, so get typing Finn!! Book 2 needed, stat!!
Can't really describe it as sci-fi or futuristic, as it's set in today's world, but it features aliens who have been stranded on our planet by a human who had gotten fed up of the 'Vish' thinking themselves superior to us measly humans, and decided to take a few of them out and then hides one of the keys to their 'Stargate' so that the rest of them get stranded here. Trouble is, the Vish really are trying to protect us Earthlings from the real baddies, the 'G-Reth', who actually eat the races they conquer..they want no competition!!
There are people who straddle both worlds (world building was excellent btw), Aiden being one of the stranded Vish and half human, and Jase, whose grandfather Morgan was the guy who originally hid the key. Aiden has been watching over Jase for many years, and is in lust/love with him now he's all grown up, but Jase has real problems accepting and dealing with Aiden's domineering ways, and he takes off, leaving Aiden to chase him all over the planet. Sex-wise and every other wise...Aiden is an Alpha with a capital A, and when he finally catches up with Jase, watch out, sparks fly 'I'm in love with your ass. I can't wait to have it'. [Talking of sex, what there was of it was hawt...as you would expect from a Finn Marlowe story.]
Do Aiden and Jase finally manage to decipher Morgan's clues and work out where the key has been hidden?? Does Jase learn to like wearing cuffs and being at Aiden's mercy??<-----OH YES!! Do the real baddies catch up with our guys.....find out for yourselves readers, this is a cliffie, so get typing Finn!! Book 2 needed, stat!!
July 23, 2014
This is some of the best world-building I've read in a story. And I hate to even try and describe some of the things because it is so delicious discovering them on your own.
Jason is a pre-med student, who had been on the run from Aiden, who is half-human, half-Vish, an alien race that has been on our planet for many, many years. He has known Aiden all his life, but because of his grandfather, who committed a horrible act, Jason was sentenced with death in accordance with the Vish laws. In order to save him, Aiden agreed to be bound to Jason, something that scared Jason profoundly and precipitated his flight.
Suffice it to say, the story opens with a bang with Jason in bed with Aiden the first time after Aiden had caught up with runaway Jason and it doesn't let up for the rest of the story. The sex is hotter than hot. The two of them start off at cross-purposes because neither want to admit how much they want and care for the other, but that slowly changes as they begin to understand each other and let down the barriers between them.
But it's the story that kept me riveted. What Jason's grandfather did and how Aiden and Jason had to set things right. I'm a sucker for a good fantasy/science fiction story, and this one was a good one.
The ending is HFN,and I'll say it right now. I hope that there will be a sequel soon so that we can find out what happens with the story line. We know that the two of them are set for further adventures. I just hope that we will get to see them soon.
Jason is a pre-med student, who had been on the run from Aiden, who is half-human, half-Vish, an alien race that has been on our planet for many, many years. He has known Aiden all his life, but because of his grandfather, who committed a horrible act, Jason was sentenced with death in accordance with the Vish laws. In order to save him, Aiden agreed to be bound to Jason, something that scared Jason profoundly and precipitated his flight.
Suffice it to say, the story opens with a bang with Jason in bed with Aiden the first time after Aiden had caught up with runaway Jason and it doesn't let up for the rest of the story. The sex is hotter than hot. The two of them start off at cross-purposes because neither want to admit how much they want and care for the other, but that slowly changes as they begin to understand each other and let down the barriers between them.
But it's the story that kept me riveted. What Jason's grandfather did and how Aiden and Jason had to set things right. I'm a sucker for a good fantasy/science fiction story, and this one was a good one.
The ending is HFN,and I'll say it right now. I hope that there will be a sequel soon so that we can find out what happens with the story line. We know that the two of them are set for further adventures. I just hope that we will get to see them soon.
October 7, 2015
4.5 stars
I went into this excited to read a Finn Marlowe story and I wasn't disappointed.
The world building is excellent. Every detail is perfect, rich and believable; blending effortlessly with a contemporary universe. I don't want to go into detail about the plot because it's so satisfying having it unfold as you read. From the beginning you wonder exactly what's going on between Jase and Aiden and the dynamic between human retainers and Vish, and as details unfurl the story pulls you in.
Jason is a quirky, OCD, and by Aiden's definition: a cute guy. He's got a snarky sense of humor and he thinks differently than others, but that just makes him smart. He grew up in a family that were retainers for the Vish and as such feels like he has one foot in the human world, one in the alien, and loneliness because of it. Aiden, on the other hand, is half Vish, half human and entirely fantastic. Big, strong, possessive, protective, and a cuddler. He's waited a long time for Jason, and now he finally has him. Both characters are very distinct and compliment each other well.
I can't believe I'm going to say this... but there was almost too much sex (granted it was really hot sex) but I would have loved maybe one or two of those scenes to be longing looks, meaningful conversation or tender moments. Or, keep the sex and add one or two of those scenes. That's my only niggle, and as far as niggles go, that's not a bad one.
I will say that the dirty talk in this was off the scales sexy. It's hard to read dirty talk because often times it ends up reading stupid, but this was done really well.
This was really good, and I'd highly recommended it. Take note though: it ends on a HFN - there's a sequel on the way, and I can't wait to read it.
My thanks to the author for their time and participation in the Loves Landscapes event.
I went into this excited to read a Finn Marlowe story and I wasn't disappointed.
The world building is excellent. Every detail is perfect, rich and believable; blending effortlessly with a contemporary universe. I don't want to go into detail about the plot because it's so satisfying having it unfold as you read. From the beginning you wonder exactly what's going on between Jase and Aiden and the dynamic between human retainers and Vish, and as details unfurl the story pulls you in.
Jason is a quirky, OCD, and by Aiden's definition: a cute guy. He's got a snarky sense of humor and he thinks differently than others, but that just makes him smart. He grew up in a family that were retainers for the Vish and as such feels like he has one foot in the human world, one in the alien, and loneliness because of it. Aiden, on the other hand, is half Vish, half human and entirely fantastic. Big, strong, possessive, protective, and a cuddler. He's waited a long time for Jason, and now he finally has him. Both characters are very distinct and compliment each other well.
I can't believe I'm going to say this... but there was almost too much sex (granted it was really hot sex) but I would have loved maybe one or two of those scenes to be longing looks, meaningful conversation or tender moments. Or, keep the sex and add one or two of those scenes. That's my only niggle, and as far as niggles go, that's not a bad one.
I will say that the dirty talk in this was off the scales sexy. It's hard to read dirty talk because often times it ends up reading stupid, but this was done really well.
This was really good, and I'd highly recommended it. Take note though: it ends on a HFN - there's a sequel on the way, and I can't wait to read it.
My thanks to the author for their time and participation in the Loves Landscapes event.
January 26, 2015
There was much I loved about this story, but several things lessened my enjoyment.
I loved the world build and the main characters. The plot was good too. My main problem was the sex/plot ratio. The sex scenes were hot; there were just too many of them. This story became another case of 'hurry up and get it over with so I can find out what happens next'.
The second problem I have is that although the story is long, it seems like it's just half complete, as if it couldn't be finished by the due date. It just stopped, right when I was expecting an action-packed conclusion - very disappointing, especially after investing so much time in reading and enjoying the world the author created.
I loved the world build and the main characters. The plot was good too. My main problem was the sex/plot ratio. The sex scenes were hot; there were just too many of them. This story became another case of 'hurry up and get it over with so I can find out what happens next'.
The second problem I have is that although the story is long, it seems like it's just half complete, as if it couldn't be finished by the due date. It just stopped, right when I was expecting an action-packed conclusion - very disappointing, especially after investing so much time in reading and enjoying the world the author created.
March 4, 2016
Не-отзыв. :)
Авторские тэги: "fetish/toys, light BDSM, D/s relationship, friends to lovers, aliens, soulmates/bonded, HFN"
Эх, какая заявка была многообещающая...
Обычно удивляюсь тому, что Finn Marlowe недооценивают и общая оценка, по моему мнению, выходит неоправданно заниженной. Так было и с "Not His Kiss to Take", и с "A Thread of Deepest Black", где вроде бы должны быть твердые четверки и выше.
В этот же раз наоборот. "Stranded by Lies" не произвела на меня впечатления, а баллы зашкаливают. Хотя, справедливости ради, ее "Forever in One Second" мне тоже не нравится.
Два на два.
Пойду лучше ее оборотней перечитаю, Киллиан просто душка.
Авторские тэги: "fetish/toys, light BDSM, D/s relationship, friends to lovers, aliens, soulmates/bonded, HFN"
Эх, какая заявка была многообещающая...
Обычно удивляюсь тому, что Finn Marlowe недооценивают и общая оценка, по моему мнению, выходит неоправданно заниженной. Так было и с "Not His Kiss to Take", и с "A Thread of Deepest Black", где вроде бы должны быть твердые четверки и выше.
В этот же раз наоборот. "Stranded by Lies" не произвела на меня впечатления, а баллы зашкаливают. Хотя, справедливости ради, ее "Forever in One Second" мне тоже не нравится.
Два на два.
Пойду лучше ее оборотней перечитаю, Киллиан просто душка.
September 30, 2014
Honestly? I just wanted to take a quick peek at this story to see if it had a future in my TBR pile. Yeah, that really worked out! *snort* The opening scene grabbed hold (OMG!!! Hot, hot, HOT!) and never let me go! So very good!
This is some of the best SciFi/AU I've had the pleasure of reading. Rich characters and excellent world building. I truly hope Ms. Marlowe chooses to continue the adventures of Aiden and Jase in the near future! I'll be waiting!
This is some of the best SciFi/AU I've had the pleasure of reading. Rich characters and excellent world building. I truly hope Ms. Marlowe chooses to continue the adventures of Aiden and Jase in the near future! I'll be waiting!
July 27, 2014
I kept interrupting myself while reading this, so I didn't have a sense of flow from start to end. This is the sort of story that needs full engagement because of the complicated elements, including aliens, a terrible war and a missing key.
Loved the two boys, all their dicking around is clearly foreplay. Seriously hot grouchy sex is awesome. Also, I didn't expect to hear Aidan's voice, but I think the story is better for it.
Love all this author's work.
Loved the two boys, all their dicking around is clearly foreplay. Seriously hot grouchy sex is awesome. Also, I didn't expect to hear Aidan's voice, but I think the story is better for it.
Love all this author's work.
July 26, 2015
I enjoyed this scifi tale. It wasn't heavy on technology but rather the alien species cohabiting with us earthlings. More specifically, Aiden, half human, and his relationship to Jason, full human. Plus an adventure to search for a missing item.
It was an interesting world and I really liked both characters.
The ending leaves it open for a sequel which I would love to read.
It was an interesting world and I really liked both characters.
The ending leaves it open for a sequel which I would love to read.
November 9, 2015
This was a fun, light Sci-Fi story set on earth between a human and a half-human/half-alien.
Humorous and easy to read. The world building was good, as was the character development.
There was a little bit of kink as the tags suggested. Some light bondage, some D/s and some lovely blow job scenes.
Humorous and easy to read. The world building was good, as was the character development.
There was a little bit of kink as the tags suggested. Some light bondage, some D/s and some lovely blow job scenes.
April 18, 2015
I liked this, the writing was compelling and the plot was interesting. The characters were hot together and it was very clear how much they cared about each other. I really hope there will be a sequel or something though, because so very much is left unresolved at the end. I want more!
December 10, 2023
4+⭐
Aliens have been living among us for a while, though most of us don't know it. It's an interesting setting and also a promising plot. There's a lot going on in this novella and I was very hooked. I wish there was a sequel or something.
The romance is also pretty good. There's mostly hot sex, I categorise this book in both romance and erotica. But there's also a lot of complicated feelings considering how fluffy these guys eventually are.
Aliens have been living among us for a while, though most of us don't know it. It's an interesting setting and also a promising plot. There's a lot going on in this novella and I was very hooked. I wish there was a sequel or something.
The romance is also pretty good. There's mostly hot sex, I categorise this book in both romance and erotica. But there's also a lot of complicated feelings considering how fluffy these guys eventually are.
September 21, 2014
First of all, a little warning: This book ends with a cliffhanger. Again. After last year story (As He Watches), Finn give us another book with a cliffhanger, and really, much much worse than last year's. Also: read this story, despite the ending.
Second. I might or might not have a soft spot for Finn Marlowe. So even if I admit the book had some serious plot holes, I'm not lowering my rating, because I enjoyed it way too much. Jason and Aiden stole my heart and I just couldn't put the book down for a single moment. Also: ridiculously hoy sex, angry sex and kinky sex. What is not to love? well, a few things.
The first and last parts of the book felt kinda unconnected to the rest of the story, both in narrative and focus. The first part is kinda dubcon, with angry Aiden having hit Jason after an offpage argument. However, Aiden from that part onwards never felt like that hot tempered as to hit his partner. Nor he properly apologises (No, "don't make me hit you again" is hardly an apology). I love angry sex but the hitting part rubs me all kinds of wrong. Then the final part -after another scorching hot sex scene - is a cave exploration. And as you read, you may notice the number of pages left is descending way too quickly to solve everything hanging. And then: cliffhanger.
Also, as Emma's reviews points, there is a nice conflict going on than later, is not a conflict anymore. I was hoping at least the author will shows us the part when
That's for the things that felt odd. After the first sex scene, Jason and Aiden make a great couple. What it felt at first kinda TPErish is not quite much, but really BDSM-lite in bedroom mostly, my favourite kind.
Dear Finn: This book needs a sequel much more urgently than As he watches, you can't just finish off this book like this!!!
Second. I might or might not have a soft spot for Finn Marlowe. So even if I admit the book had some serious plot holes, I'm not lowering my rating, because I enjoyed it way too much. Jason and Aiden stole my heart and I just couldn't put the book down for a single moment. Also: ridiculously hoy sex, angry sex and kinky sex. What is not to love? well, a few things.
The first and last parts of the book felt kinda unconnected to the rest of the story, both in narrative and focus. The first part is kinda dubcon, with angry Aiden having hit Jason after an offpage argument. However, Aiden from that part onwards never felt like that hot tempered as to hit his partner. Nor he properly apologises (No, "don't make me hit you again" is hardly an apology). I love angry sex but the hitting part rubs me all kinds of wrong. Then the final part -after another scorching hot sex scene - is a cave exploration. And as you read, you may notice the number of pages left is descending way too quickly to solve everything hanging. And then: cliffhanger.
Also, as Emma's reviews points, there is a nice conflict going on than later, is not a conflict anymore. I was hoping at least the author will shows us the part when
That's for the things that felt odd. After the first sex scene, Jason and Aiden make a great couple. What it felt at first kinda TPErish is not quite much, but really BDSM-lite in bedroom mostly, my favourite kind.
Dear Finn: This book needs a sequel much more urgently than As he watches, you can't just finish off this book like this!!!
December 13, 2016
OK so if you removed the first chapter from this book I would have really enjoyed it, but that opening through me off completely and left me with a bad taste in my mouth to start off. 3.5 stars that easily would have been 4 without the opening. I do hope this book gets a sequel as it grew on me as it went and the story feels incomplete. There's definitely more to explore in this world.
Jason Kelly has been running as far and as fast as he can. His world's been tossed upside down by his grandfather's betrayal. Where at one time his entire focus was finishing up med school and becoming a doctor now he has little choice in what happens next. Aiden's tracked him down and now he's getting dragged back into the world he was trying to escape from. He should have known having grown up in it, really it's for life.
Aiden O'Rourke isn't entirely human. He's half-Vish/half-human and now that the Vish are trapped on Earth after the catastrophe he's the highest ranking military one as well. Jason is now his responsibility. His grandfather had served as Aiden's family retainer for years and Aiden has watch Jason grow. He's known about Jason's crush on him for years, but the Vish are a longer lived race and Aiden was determined to give Jason his space to grow up. Well circumstances have forced his hand now and Aiden is not going to let Jason go again.
This story is one where if you took away the opening sequence , which put me in entirely the wrong head space to read the rest of this story, this would be a sci-fi intro story that I'd be drooling over the next installment. There's clearly adventure and action on the horizon. The road trip these two go on down Route 66 just sets up more action to potentially follow. I'm intrigued by the Vish themselves and their culture. I wanted to know more. :)
There are still so many hidden reasons and things we may never know, but I want to watch Jason and Aiden discovering them as they work for a better future and come to terms with each other. I would read a sequel because as I said this story grew on me.
Jason Kelly has been running as far and as fast as he can. His world's been tossed upside down by his grandfather's betrayal. Where at one time his entire focus was finishing up med school and becoming a doctor now he has little choice in what happens next. Aiden's tracked him down and now he's getting dragged back into the world he was trying to escape from. He should have known having grown up in it, really it's for life.
Aiden O'Rourke isn't entirely human. He's half-Vish/half-human and now that the Vish are trapped on Earth after the catastrophe he's the highest ranking military one as well. Jason is now his responsibility. His grandfather had served as Aiden's family retainer for years and Aiden has watch Jason grow. He's known about Jason's crush on him for years, but the Vish are a longer lived race and Aiden was determined to give Jason his space to grow up. Well circumstances have forced his hand now and Aiden is not going to let Jason go again.
This story is one where if you took away the opening sequence , which put me in entirely the wrong head space to read the rest of this story, this would be a sci-fi intro story that I'd be drooling over the next installment. There's clearly adventure and action on the horizon. The road trip these two go on down Route 66 just sets up more action to potentially follow. I'm intrigued by the Vish themselves and their culture. I wanted to know more. :)
There are still so many hidden reasons and things we may never know, but I want to watch Jason and Aiden discovering them as they work for a better future and come to terms with each other. I would read a sequel because as I said this story grew on me.
November 23, 2015
The aliens are among us, and these guys have some particular problems that I found quite interesting. A gate that no longer works because a lowly human sabotaged it, a war on their home world between factions as well as against somewhat more superior aliens, and a quest to find the hidden key to the gate the aliens need to go home. Both Jason, the human who needs to help find the key, and Aiden were interesting characters.
But - and this is a big but for me - Aiden was "too human" at the same time as being a domineering, macho d*ckhead with very few redeeming qualities. he treated Jason like a slave in bed, and all the dubcon was just too much. Yes, Jason said he liked it - but he was hurting from the rough sex they'd had, and I just didn't like that one bit.
If you like it rough in the bedroom up to and including one character hurting the other, if you're looking for straightforward plot without too much alien mentality or distractions, and if you're looking for an adventure story with lots of (rough) action in the bedroom, then you will probably enjoy this free novella.
But - and this is a big but for me - Aiden was "too human" at the same time as being a domineering, macho d*ckhead with very few redeeming qualities. he treated Jason like a slave in bed, and all the dubcon was just too much. Yes, Jason said he liked it - but he was hurting from the rough sex they'd had, and I just didn't like that one bit.
If you like it rough in the bedroom up to and including one character hurting the other, if you're looking for straightforward plot without too much alien mentality or distractions, and if you're looking for an adventure story with lots of (rough) action in the bedroom, then you will probably enjoy this free novella.
July 27, 2014
Sci-fi/Futuristic/AU story
This story starts out with a scene that could put many off as it appears to be non con - but hang in there, it isn't. Told in turn by Jase, a human who has been sentenced to death by the Vish (a long lived alien race who have co-existed in secrecy on earth for centuries) for a crime committed by his grandfather - which resulted in the Vish being stuck on earth, and Aiden, the half-alien in whose protection he is in, and who has been waiting for Jase to grow up before making a move on him (there may be an issue for those that don't do age gaps ). Jase has been in love with Aiden as long as he can remember, but that doesn't stop him running away and fighting when captured. Together they have to undo something that Jase's grandfather did years before so that the Vish are able to travel back to their home world again. I particularly enjoyed the world building and set up in this one.
This story starts out with a scene that could put many off as it appears to be non con - but hang in there, it isn't. Told in turn by Jase, a human who has been sentenced to death by the Vish (a long lived alien race who have co-existed in secrecy on earth for centuries) for a crime committed by his grandfather - which resulted in the Vish being stuck on earth, and Aiden, the half-alien in whose protection he is in, and who has been waiting for Jase to grow up before making a move on him (there may be an issue for those that don't do age gaps ). Jase has been in love with Aiden as long as he can remember, but that doesn't stop him running away and fighting when captured. Together they have to undo something that Jase's grandfather did years before so that the Vish are able to travel back to their home world again. I particularly enjoyed the world building and set up in this one.
May 29, 2015
Well, this was different, in a good way. This is only the second story I've read by this author and I liked them both. This moved slowly for me at times, as it was very descriptive and chock-full of backstory, which I actually appreciated as it added to the layers of the story and the development of the characters. This was a rich reading experience for what I would describe as a long, short story. Perhaps, a prequel as the ending suggests.
The two main characters share a complex history and were both compelling in their own way. The sex scenes were smouldering, yet the relationship was filled with a surprising amount of tenderness and mutual adoration.
This also had a sci-fi theme...something I think is entirely unnecessary in an erotic romance. In this story, however, it worked.
The two main characters share a complex history and were both compelling in their own way. The sex scenes were smouldering, yet the relationship was filled with a surprising amount of tenderness and mutual adoration.
This also had a sci-fi theme...something I think is entirely unnecessary in an erotic romance. In this story, however, it worked.
June 16, 2015
Wow, that was amazing. Another DRITC effort by Finn Marlowe that she could have sold for $4.99 without the slightest pang of conscience.
It starts with a rough sex scene between a frightened boy, on the run for months, and the man who has finally caught him. During this smoking hot scene we start to learn who they are and why they were apart. It’s plain from the start that they are not enemies, but care deeply for each other.
And then we find out one of them is a halfbreed alien from the planet T’El, and the plot kicks off.
Hits on all counts: romance, erotica, mystery, worldbuilding, and plot. Highly recommended.
It starts with a rough sex scene between a frightened boy, on the run for months, and the man who has finally caught him. During this smoking hot scene we start to learn who they are and why they were apart. It’s plain from the start that they are not enemies, but care deeply for each other.
And then we find out one of them is a halfbreed alien from the planet T’El, and the plot kicks off.
Hits on all counts: romance, erotica, mystery, worldbuilding, and plot. Highly recommended.
November 18, 2015
I think more 2.5 stars
I'm really not sure how to rate this. It's written well and I also liked the plot and the world building.
But their relationship was confusing for me. There's a lot of hot sex in this story. Some parts - especially the first scene - have a dub-con feeling to them I had trouble to understand and to get behind. Especially Aiden is unlikeable for me. He's bossy but also so sappy about Jason... that clashed too much for me.
I'm really not sure how to rate this. It's written well and I also liked the plot and the world building.
But their relationship was confusing for me. There's a lot of hot sex in this story. Some parts - especially the first scene - have a dub-con feeling to them I had trouble to understand and to get behind. Especially Aiden is unlikeable for me. He's bossy but also so sappy about Jason... that clashed too much for me.
January 12, 2015
4.5 stars. This was a five star read for me until the very end. I wanted, no needed, more. I have to admit to being a sci-fi fan, but this was very well written with a unique story line and characters that I just plain fell in love with. I would be thrilled if this was to become a full length story one day.
July 24, 2014
I absolutely loved this story. Has characters you fall for and a story that keeps you hooked. The fantasy aspect (sci/fi) was cleverly done and fit well into the contemporary world. We really need a sequel...so much more to be told. Pretty please :)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews