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Torn: a bi erotic novella
Fresh from college graduation and his girlfriend's decision to leave him, James Stevenson spends a summer in Amsterdam coping with unrequited love and the challenge of his identity. Trapped within family and social expectations, he finds himself still in love with Amee and unable to express his desire for the brilliant, compassionate Professor Joshua Thomas. As James works through his past and present, we follow him on an emotional and sexual journey of self-acceptance.
140 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2015
About the author
E.B. Barrett
2 books1 followerI have been writing erotic stories since a young age. Anaïs Nin provided an early inspiration and confirmed my drive to write. She conveyed more of the complex subconscious content of sexuality than my father's magazine stash did. But I was intrigued by both.
What erotica I wrote over the years always went "into the drawer." Then, I stumbled into fanfiction in 2000 for the first time and it was a revelation--transformative writers formed guerrilla sites and readers followed. Tentatively, I became part of the underground, first as a reader, then as a writer. To my shock, a strong following emerged. It gave me the confidence to begin distributing my original characters as well.
Characters arrive "for a chat" at odd times: in the midst of a work deadline, commuting on the train, when I'm socializing at a party. This same thing happens with poetry--it will arrive in chunks in the midst of other activities. I have to find my phone or a scrap of paper and take a quick note or two. I'm fortunate that when, later, I pay full attention, the characters return for more extended story time. They plot the tale. I listen to them and don't judge, except to sometimes correct their grammar.
Erotica can be literary, and literature devoid of erotic content ignores a key part of human experience. I also write poetry and literature, but my particular Muses don't separate erotica into its own section down a dim hallway.
What erotica I wrote over the years always went "into the drawer." Then, I stumbled into fanfiction in 2000 for the first time and it was a revelation--transformative writers formed guerrilla sites and readers followed. Tentatively, I became part of the underground, first as a reader, then as a writer. To my shock, a strong following emerged. It gave me the confidence to begin distributing my original characters as well.
Characters arrive "for a chat" at odd times: in the midst of a work deadline, commuting on the train, when I'm socializing at a party. This same thing happens with poetry--it will arrive in chunks in the midst of other activities. I have to find my phone or a scrap of paper and take a quick note or two. I'm fortunate that when, later, I pay full attention, the characters return for more extended story time. They plot the tale. I listen to them and don't judge, except to sometimes correct their grammar.
Erotica can be literary, and literature devoid of erotic content ignores a key part of human experience. I also write poetry and literature, but my particular Muses don't separate erotica into its own section down a dim hallway.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 11, 2016
2.5
This book confused my feels.
Some things I liked but mostly found it unpolished, though not terrible. The narrative is relatively engaging, a journey of self-discovery told from that character's perspective as it happens and how they work through their travails is the type of storytelling I typically enjoy. I also liked that Barrett wasn't afraid of penning numerous sexual pairings for James to experience. Torn runs the gamut from mf, ff, mmf, mfm, mff, and even a couple of forays into BDSM settings. I particularly liked Barrett's usage of language which was poetic, if flowery at times. Torn mostly held my attention, though some of the tangents into science I could've done without.
The framework is sound. The decorating of that framework wasn't to my taste.
James is in college when we first meet him. His girlfriend, Amee, is on her own journey of self-discovery and is dragging James along behind her. Amee eventually sets him free under the guise of not being "in love" with him and needing to pursue her own kinky inclinations. Inclinations James does not share nor does he care for sharing her. Amee's also aware James has been carrying a torch for his professor, Joshua, so it's somewhat altruistic on her part. After graduation he heads to Amsterdam to find himself. And finds Joshua.
Serendipity seems to follow James around like a puppy.
The first 40ish% read like a huge info dump of a backstory. Some of which felt contrived like his growing up in poverty with a mother who suffers from mental illness and is frequently suicidal, yet later he's at a family gathering and someone makes mention of her crystal. They were so poor he wore the same clothes year after year, but they had crystal serving bowls and decanters?
He also makes a flippant comment about his mother's suicide that didn't ring true. In all of my experiences with children of a parent who's committed suicide never have I encounter them as being glib.
I probably could've overlooked that hiccup had a I liked James. But I didn't. His propensity to compromise himself in order to gain acceptance from everyone I found distasteful. To put it succinctly, James is milquetoast and his telling of his own sexual adventures is the stuff of toast.
Can I get some butter for my toast, please?
He yada yada'd his own sexcapades! I've never felt so disconnected from a story or a character nor has a book with this much eroticism been less erotic.
It's clear relatively early on that James is bisexual, though he's reluctant to admit it. His hesitancy and denial read true and I empathized with him to a point. What I found strange were his random interactions with multiple "psychics" who "see" him and "know" just by looking at him then proceed to encourage him to pursue cock. How many people throughout the course of one's life do you meet that (a) will be emboldened enough to tell you what your sexuality is and (b) then proceed to tell you not only how to act on it, but to buy a vibrator from this store to get ready for THE ONE?
Nor I.
Presumptuous for $500, Alex!
James in all his milquetoastiness takes the counsel to heart and partakes of the cock on offer a few times with a ladygarden thrown in here and there to keep things spicy. His purported sexpertise coupled with his panty/jock dropping pulchritude became tiresome. James, it seems, is the embodiment of Eros. Everyone wants him and he's a natural at the shabbiddy dibbiddy. His best friend showed him ONCE how to go down on a girl and nothing but fireworks since. He's no slouch in the mansex department either. Couple BJs and he's a pro. Can even put a condom on with only his mouth. AND can take a cock like Johnny Rapid.
Some people just have the gift.
James' version of bisexuality was another stumbling block because it read a lot like polyamory which given his aversion to Amee's polyamorousness seems both hypocritical and like a myopic version of bisexuality.
It's not that I believe polyamory and bisexuality are mutually exclusive, more the dogma that one cannot exist without the other which perpetuates biphobia. It's true for James and that's fine, but it's not a universal truth for all bisexuals. So, I think Torn could benefit from the addition of a polyamory label rather than being marketed as a solely bisexual novella.
Lastly, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! on the kink scene at the end. Just no. There was so much wrongness that I've neither the inclination nor the wherewithal to go there.
However, there are quite a few people who disagree with me and have written eloquent reviews in support of this novella; I encourage anyone contemplating reading Torn to read those reviews as well.
Triggers warnings-cheating, multiple couplings outside of the central protags
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This book confused my feels.
Some things I liked but mostly found it unpolished, though not terrible. The narrative is relatively engaging, a journey of self-discovery told from that character's perspective as it happens and how they work through their travails is the type of storytelling I typically enjoy. I also liked that Barrett wasn't afraid of penning numerous sexual pairings for James to experience. Torn runs the gamut from mf, ff, mmf, mfm, mff, and even a couple of forays into BDSM settings. I particularly liked Barrett's usage of language which was poetic, if flowery at times. Torn mostly held my attention, though some of the tangents into science I could've done without.
The framework is sound. The decorating of that framework wasn't to my taste.
James is in college when we first meet him. His girlfriend, Amee, is on her own journey of self-discovery and is dragging James along behind her. Amee eventually sets him free under the guise of not being "in love" with him and needing to pursue her own kinky inclinations. Inclinations James does not share nor does he care for sharing her. Amee's also aware James has been carrying a torch for his professor, Joshua, so it's somewhat altruistic on her part. After graduation he heads to Amsterdam to find himself. And finds Joshua.
Serendipity seems to follow James around like a puppy.
The first 40ish% read like a huge info dump of a backstory. Some of which felt contrived like his growing up in poverty with a mother who suffers from mental illness and is frequently suicidal, yet later he's at a family gathering and someone makes mention of her crystal. They were so poor he wore the same clothes year after year, but they had crystal serving bowls and decanters?
He also makes a flippant comment about his mother's suicide that didn't ring true. In all of my experiences with children of a parent who's committed suicide never have I encounter them as being glib.
I probably could've overlooked that hiccup had a I liked James. But I didn't. His propensity to compromise himself in order to gain acceptance from everyone I found distasteful. To put it succinctly, James is milquetoast and his telling of his own sexual adventures is the stuff of toast.
Can I get some butter for my toast, please?
He yada yada'd his own sexcapades! I've never felt so disconnected from a story or a character nor has a book with this much eroticism been less erotic.
It's clear relatively early on that James is bisexual, though he's reluctant to admit it. His hesitancy and denial read true and I empathized with him to a point. What I found strange were his random interactions with multiple "psychics" who "see" him and "know" just by looking at him then proceed to encourage him to pursue cock. How many people throughout the course of one's life do you meet that (a) will be emboldened enough to tell you what your sexuality is and (b) then proceed to tell you not only how to act on it, but to buy a vibrator from this store to get ready for THE ONE?
Nor I.
Presumptuous for $500, Alex!
James in all his milquetoastiness takes the counsel to heart and partakes of the cock on offer a few times with a ladygarden thrown in here and there to keep things spicy. His purported sexpertise coupled with his panty/jock dropping pulchritude became tiresome. James, it seems, is the embodiment of Eros. Everyone wants him and he's a natural at the shabbiddy dibbiddy. His best friend showed him ONCE how to go down on a girl and nothing but fireworks since. He's no slouch in the mansex department either. Couple BJs and he's a pro. Can even put a condom on with only his mouth. AND can take a cock like Johnny Rapid.
Some people just have the gift.
James' version of bisexuality was another stumbling block because it read a lot like polyamory which given his aversion to Amee's polyamorousness seems both hypocritical and like a myopic version of bisexuality.
If he accepts me, I will be in a relationship with a man. And at some point, I'll have to explain that I still want a woman. He might understand. But I don't want to be this way, that's the real problem.
It's not that I believe polyamory and bisexuality are mutually exclusive, more the dogma that one cannot exist without the other which perpetuates biphobia. It's true for James and that's fine, but it's not a universal truth for all bisexuals. So, I think Torn could benefit from the addition of a polyamory label rather than being marketed as a solely bisexual novella.
Lastly, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! on the kink scene at the end. Just no. There was so much wrongness that I've neither the inclination nor the wherewithal to go there.
However, there are quite a few people who disagree with me and have written eloquent reviews in support of this novella; I encourage anyone contemplating reading Torn to read those reviews as well.
Triggers warnings-cheating, multiple couplings outside of the central protags
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2016
5 amazing stars
I've read a few erotica books but never one like this one. It delivers a strong, pure, and empowering message in absolutely flawless writing.
It's the story of a young man and a young woman coming into adulthood and discovering their sexual identity. Experimenting and finding the bounds of society's "normal" no longer fit right. Redefining those boundaries in acceptance of who they truly are.
It is not a clash with society, friends and family. Rather, it focuses on two young people in discovery mode. Defining themselves as they explore, mature and become aware of their true selves. It is also a story of self acceptance.
I understand why it is classified as erotica. The sexy, graphic, intimate scenes lend themselves to that genre. But this is not erotica for fun. This is erotica to tell a story. This is erotica that says it's OK to be who you are, no matter what that turns out to be.
This is a truly beautiful story.
ARC graciously provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design for an honest review.
I've read a few erotica books but never one like this one. It delivers a strong, pure, and empowering message in absolutely flawless writing.
It's the story of a young man and a young woman coming into adulthood and discovering their sexual identity. Experimenting and finding the bounds of society's "normal" no longer fit right. Redefining those boundaries in acceptance of who they truly are.
It is not a clash with society, friends and family. Rather, it focuses on two young people in discovery mode. Defining themselves as they explore, mature and become aware of their true selves. It is also a story of self acceptance.
I understand why it is classified as erotica. The sexy, graphic, intimate scenes lend themselves to that genre. But this is not erotica for fun. This is erotica to tell a story. This is erotica that says it's OK to be who you are, no matter what that turns out to be.
This is a truly beautiful story.
ARC graciously provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design for an honest review.
September 20, 2015
I'll start by saying this: I haven't ventured far into the erotic genre, and this was the first bisexual erotica I had ever read. Having said that, I devoured it in one sitting.
I knew I was in for more than a typical erotica when there was a dinner conversation between siblings discussing the topic of gay marriage. Our main character, James' sister, Julie, said something that stuck with me: "I think love is scarce enough in this world that we shouldn't police who loves whom as long as people are old enough to consent." That lingered in the mind throughout the rest of the read.
Torn is a provocative and scintillating story about a young man named James, and his journey to renewed sexual discovery. We follow the relationship between him and his girlfriend, Amee, who has grown restless sexually and wants to experiment in new things. What James isn't anticipating is that during this process he will be the one who goes through the biggest change, when he realizes sexuality is anything but black and white, and perhaps those feelings he had for his male professor weren't so platonic.
The dialogue is written to near perfection, to the point that I find no word uttered to be wasted. Everything spoken had a meaning and helped progresses the plot. Despite certain characters only appearing a few times, at the most, each character stood out and was completely defined. I didn't feel like I was merely reading fictional characters but that I was immersed in a real world with real people interacting with James.
Now, on to the good stuff. This is erotica after all, so how can I not talk about the sex? The sex scenes didn't disappoint at all. It's amazing that as detailed and to the point as the scenes were they managed to remain tasteful and sexy. I won't spoil anything, but a couple scenes including a dom and sub couple, Max and Iris, were real standouts. Author E.B. Barrett is great at setting the scene and building sexual tension.
I think perhaps the best part of this book was the ending. It gives anyone who is struggling with bisexuality hope, and lets them know that they are not "weird" nor are they "greedy". I have very little complaints for this book, so I have to give it five stars.
I knew I was in for more than a typical erotica when there was a dinner conversation between siblings discussing the topic of gay marriage. Our main character, James' sister, Julie, said something that stuck with me: "I think love is scarce enough in this world that we shouldn't police who loves whom as long as people are old enough to consent." That lingered in the mind throughout the rest of the read.
Torn is a provocative and scintillating story about a young man named James, and his journey to renewed sexual discovery. We follow the relationship between him and his girlfriend, Amee, who has grown restless sexually and wants to experiment in new things. What James isn't anticipating is that during this process he will be the one who goes through the biggest change, when he realizes sexuality is anything but black and white, and perhaps those feelings he had for his male professor weren't so platonic.
The dialogue is written to near perfection, to the point that I find no word uttered to be wasted. Everything spoken had a meaning and helped progresses the plot. Despite certain characters only appearing a few times, at the most, each character stood out and was completely defined. I didn't feel like I was merely reading fictional characters but that I was immersed in a real world with real people interacting with James.
Now, on to the good stuff. This is erotica after all, so how can I not talk about the sex? The sex scenes didn't disappoint at all. It's amazing that as detailed and to the point as the scenes were they managed to remain tasteful and sexy. I won't spoil anything, but a couple scenes including a dom and sub couple, Max and Iris, were real standouts. Author E.B. Barrett is great at setting the scene and building sexual tension.
I think perhaps the best part of this book was the ending. It gives anyone who is struggling with bisexuality hope, and lets them know that they are not "weird" nor are they "greedy". I have very little complaints for this book, so I have to give it five stars.
March 24, 2016
ARC received from author via Indigo Marketing And Design in exchange for an honest review.
This story is told from the point of view of James, a college student who through a mathematical breakthrough, becomes a millionaire by the age of 22. This however is not the subject of the book, merely a piece of background knowledge.
James grew up with his two sisters in poor family, to a mother with mental health issues and a father who had strict ideas on what he considered ‘normal’. From an early age, James knew he was different and after a sexual experience in the presence of his best friend, began to realise (though not really acknowledge) that his sexual interests lay in both men and women.
After becoming involved with Amee, at her request (and to satisfy her needs), he agrees to be involved in some incredibly varied sexual situations that he was unsure of but wanted to keep her happy. This led to his full awakening as a bisexual man. Their experiences together are mind blowing and the scenes in which they are involved with other people are vivid and exciting and never seedy.
What struck me most about this is the detached manner in which James tells the story. We don’t truly get to understand his feelings regarding what he gets up to and I get the impression that he still struggles to accept his sexuality. The writing style makes it feel autobiographical and not the work of the authors imagination. It’s very easy to read and it draws you in from the first word.
This story is told from the point of view of James, a college student who through a mathematical breakthrough, becomes a millionaire by the age of 22. This however is not the subject of the book, merely a piece of background knowledge.
James grew up with his two sisters in poor family, to a mother with mental health issues and a father who had strict ideas on what he considered ‘normal’. From an early age, James knew he was different and after a sexual experience in the presence of his best friend, began to realise (though not really acknowledge) that his sexual interests lay in both men and women.
After becoming involved with Amee, at her request (and to satisfy her needs), he agrees to be involved in some incredibly varied sexual situations that he was unsure of but wanted to keep her happy. This led to his full awakening as a bisexual man. Their experiences together are mind blowing and the scenes in which they are involved with other people are vivid and exciting and never seedy.
What struck me most about this is the detached manner in which James tells the story. We don’t truly get to understand his feelings regarding what he gets up to and I get the impression that he still struggles to accept his sexuality. The writing style makes it feel autobiographical and not the work of the authors imagination. It’s very easy to read and it draws you in from the first word.
March 30, 2016
I received a copy of Torn from the author E. B. Barrett via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review. This is a sweet coming of age story, that tells the struggle of a smart young man named James Stevenson, who is struggling to be comfortable with who he is without disappointing any close to him. James not only finds himself trapped within what his families expectation are but also of what Society itself thinks about how he feels. James finds himself torn because he is madly in love with his best friend Amee, but he longs to express his feelings for his mentor and compassionate Professor Joshua Thomas. With a push from Amee amid graduation, Joshua sets off to figure out who he truly is and is working his way to Joshua. This is a beautiful story about life and love. Highly recommend you take a chance and put it on your TBR list.
March 27, 2016
This is the story of James, a mathematical genius who is struggling to accept that love and sexuality aren't always black and white.
His girlfriend, Amee, needs more than he alone can give and together they embark on some 'adventures' to try new things. This leads to James realising/accepting that he is a bisexual man.
The writing is excellent and the story compelling but it's told in a really detached way and that prevented me from really getting involved with James and his story. I never felt immersed in the story, it was always as if I was the outside looking in and this make it feel a bit sterile.
I received an ARC of this book from the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
His girlfriend, Amee, needs more than he alone can give and together they embark on some 'adventures' to try new things. This leads to James realising/accepting that he is a bisexual man.
The writing is excellent and the story compelling but it's told in a really detached way and that prevented me from really getting involved with James and his story. I never felt immersed in the story, it was always as if I was the outside looking in and this make it feel a bit sterile.
I received an ARC of this book from the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2016
I was expecting an erotic novel, which was certainly delivered. What I wasn't expecting was such good writing and such an interesting exploration into the mind of someone discovering himself and all of the complications that causes. The book finishes on a great note as well and I even found the ending inspiring.
Overall, if your looking for good erotica you won't be disappointed, and if your looking your a good book with a great message, you'll be equally satisfied.
Overall, if your looking for good erotica you won't be disappointed, and if your looking your a good book with a great message, you'll be equally satisfied.
May 3, 2016
4.5* wow! Kind of blown away right now. I've not read a story like this before. I was struck by the honesty between the characters. Thought the love between the 2 men was a bit too easy and instant but I thought the novella's pacing was very quick so the progression of the story is understandable. I'm not a fan of BDSM but thought the portrayal of the Dominatrix activity/ scenes in this were interesting and different.
April 10, 2016
*I was provided a complimentary copy of this via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.*
Truthfully, I agreed to read this book as an experiment of sorts. My recent reading history has been almost exclusively MM with a little FF thrown in there (and an occasional MMM for good measure). In addition, I write the same genre I'm most drawn to - contemporary gay romance. Though I am a bisexual woman, I haven't found much in the way of quality reading material that I found compelling and authentic. Until "Torn".
I didn't expect I'd be giving this book 5 stars. I also didn't expect to find the perfect balance of exploration, intimacy and honesty in an erotic book with 20 sexual encounters that are not with the same partner. I am by no means a prude, but at the same time, I am also fond of lasting, faithful and dare I say - conventional - relationships. This book helped me redefine my preconceived idea of faithful and challenged me to see how love and intimacy can flourish when people finally let go of their fears, their antiquated sex education lessons, and the misguided advice from every person who means well but truly doesn't know your heart.
Lastly, I didn't expect to be moved. I didn't expect to have tears when James finally confronted his longtime unrequited love; I didn't expect to shed tears with almost every intimate encounter in the book.
E.B. Barrett delivered an uncomplicated narrative of a very complicated struggle to find truth. James' delicate and somewhat clinical inner thoughts felt so real to me. There are people who just know how they feel about sex and love and have since they were young. I am not one of those people. I, like James, longed for more and needed to try until the stars aligned. By no means do I fault him for his adventures; I applaud him. And for the author who presented this in such a thoughtful, self-affirming way, I applaud her too.
I am a stingy reviewer, reserving 5-stars for those stories that have me thinking about the characters days after I've finished the book. Like I am today with "Torn". Still smiling for James and the happiness he found in ways I didn't think possible. We say "love is love" to defend same-sex relationships to its critics. "Torn" pushed me to say this and mean it regarding a relationship that made me feel uncomfortable. Whether it's the MM, FF, MMF, BDSM or other sexual dynamics, this book opened my eyes to see some of my own hangups and prejudices in glaring vividness. I went on this enlightenment journey with James...and we are both better for it.
For me, "Torn" is one of the best books I've read so far this year and very deserving of the 5 stars I proudly (and stingily) give to it.
Truthfully, I agreed to read this book as an experiment of sorts. My recent reading history has been almost exclusively MM with a little FF thrown in there (and an occasional MMM for good measure). In addition, I write the same genre I'm most drawn to - contemporary gay romance. Though I am a bisexual woman, I haven't found much in the way of quality reading material that I found compelling and authentic. Until "Torn".
I didn't expect I'd be giving this book 5 stars. I also didn't expect to find the perfect balance of exploration, intimacy and honesty in an erotic book with 20 sexual encounters that are not with the same partner. I am by no means a prude, but at the same time, I am also fond of lasting, faithful and dare I say - conventional - relationships. This book helped me redefine my preconceived idea of faithful and challenged me to see how love and intimacy can flourish when people finally let go of their fears, their antiquated sex education lessons, and the misguided advice from every person who means well but truly doesn't know your heart.
Lastly, I didn't expect to be moved. I didn't expect to have tears when James finally confronted his longtime unrequited love; I didn't expect to shed tears with almost every intimate encounter in the book.
E.B. Barrett delivered an uncomplicated narrative of a very complicated struggle to find truth. James' delicate and somewhat clinical inner thoughts felt so real to me. There are people who just know how they feel about sex and love and have since they were young. I am not one of those people. I, like James, longed for more and needed to try until the stars aligned. By no means do I fault him for his adventures; I applaud him. And for the author who presented this in such a thoughtful, self-affirming way, I applaud her too.
I am a stingy reviewer, reserving 5-stars for those stories that have me thinking about the characters days after I've finished the book. Like I am today with "Torn". Still smiling for James and the happiness he found in ways I didn't think possible. We say "love is love" to defend same-sex relationships to its critics. "Torn" pushed me to say this and mean it regarding a relationship that made me feel uncomfortable. Whether it's the MM, FF, MMF, BDSM or other sexual dynamics, this book opened my eyes to see some of my own hangups and prejudices in glaring vividness. I went on this enlightenment journey with James...and we are both better for it.
For me, "Torn" is one of the best books I've read so far this year and very deserving of the 5 stars I proudly (and stingily) give to it.
April 19, 2016
Torn is such an appropriate name for this book. When I first started reading it I kept wondering what is the deal. Is he gay, bi-curious, straight, what? Then as I read a couple of the chapters it became clear to me, James was asking himself the same questions. He was questioning his attraction to his girlfriend at the time Amee and the fact that he was open to trying the new ideas that she wanted to try. I think that Amee played a huge role in James life and him figuring out what his true self was. Amee questioned what she liked as far as sexually and brought James along for the ride. Of course Amee being more open minded with herself then James was with himself.... She found her way quicker then he did. Along with doing that she realized that James was not only attracted to her but to also me and she did not have a problem with that. She encouraged James to find himself as far as sexually where men was concerned and figured out he would not do that if they stayed together. So she ended the relationship but not their friendship or her support. And she made it known that the door would always be open for him.
James had a harder time excepting himself then Amee did but he knew with it a doubt that he loved Amee but that he was in love with Joshua his former professor.
Joshua was another strong role in this book. He is gay but he too excepted that James was Bi and that yes they may be in a relationship with one another but that Amee gave James something that he could not and he was excepting and encouraging of it.
This book was written beautifully and took you through the confusion of trying figure out where one could be happy with who they are without feeling guilty for it. It is an amazing story. I can honestly imagine someone going through something like this in real life and worrying about being happy with who they are and excepted for who they are instead of what they want. E.B. Barrett did an amazing job on this book. Loved it from start to finish.
Was given this book by inked rainbow reads for an honest review
James had a harder time excepting himself then Amee did but he knew with it a doubt that he loved Amee but that he was in love with Joshua his former professor.
Joshua was another strong role in this book. He is gay but he too excepted that James was Bi and that yes they may be in a relationship with one another but that Amee gave James something that he could not and he was excepting and encouraging of it.
This book was written beautifully and took you through the confusion of trying figure out where one could be happy with who they are without feeling guilty for it. It is an amazing story. I can honestly imagine someone going through something like this in real life and worrying about being happy with who they are and excepted for who they are instead of what they want. E.B. Barrett did an amazing job on this book. Loved it from start to finish.
Was given this book by inked rainbow reads for an honest review
March 29, 2016
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ebook was provided by IndiGo Marketing in exchange for an honest review.
Readers get a bit of history as far as James's intimate life is concerned and he appears to have a tendency of falling for people who don't feel the same way he does for them...or so he thinks. From his long-term relationship with his now-ex-girlfriend Amee to his exploration of his bisexuality and to his taking a chance on the one man he hopes will love him back, I felt as if I was an avid observer of James's story, almost voyeuristic at times. His isn't an overly angsty tale but more of a thoughtful one. There's purpose in anything and everything he does, and as intelligent he is and as successful as he becomes at such a young age, I wanted to give him a hug a time or two whenever doubt or insecurity would have him hesitating to go after what he wanted in his personal life.
The writing in this book was amazing, with the author never underestimating what her readership can handle. Bisexuality is often misunderstood but here, it's been presented more than one third-person point of view. Some people think it's simply impossible for a person to be attracted to both men and women, but then that's like saying it's impossible for a heterosexual individual to be attracted to more than one member of the opposite sex. This novella has a really good story with a strong cast of characters led by James, my favorite being Professor Joshua Thomas, and it's one that I would highly recommend. An intelligently written book, Torn was wonderfully insightful and one that deserves to have a wider audience. This great read gets 4.5 stars. ♥
Note: This ebook was provided by IndiGo Marketing in exchange for an honest review.
Readers get a bit of history as far as James's intimate life is concerned and he appears to have a tendency of falling for people who don't feel the same way he does for them...or so he thinks. From his long-term relationship with his now-ex-girlfriend Amee to his exploration of his bisexuality and to his taking a chance on the one man he hopes will love him back, I felt as if I was an avid observer of James's story, almost voyeuristic at times. His isn't an overly angsty tale but more of a thoughtful one. There's purpose in anything and everything he does, and as intelligent he is and as successful as he becomes at such a young age, I wanted to give him a hug a time or two whenever doubt or insecurity would have him hesitating to go after what he wanted in his personal life.
The writing in this book was amazing, with the author never underestimating what her readership can handle. Bisexuality is often misunderstood but here, it's been presented more than one third-person point of view. Some people think it's simply impossible for a person to be attracted to both men and women, but then that's like saying it's impossible for a heterosexual individual to be attracted to more than one member of the opposite sex. This novella has a really good story with a strong cast of characters led by James, my favorite being Professor Joshua Thomas, and it's one that I would highly recommend. An intelligently written book, Torn was wonderfully insightful and one that deserves to have a wider audience. This great read gets 4.5 stars. ♥
April 12, 2016
Title: Torn - A Bi-Erotic Novella
Author: E. B. Barrett
Reviewer: Barb
Release Date: May 14, 2015
Genre(s): MF Romance, MM Romance, MMF, FF, BDSM
Page Count: 125
Heat Level: 4.5 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Review:
****4 Sexual Awakening Stars****
This short novella was very unique and I really enjoyed reading it! It was so different, but in a way, familiar in that a young man embarks on a journey, over several years, to find what his true sexual orientation is. This book was told from James’ POV and the writer captured all of his emotions, angst, sexual inhibitions, and finally finding a love and understanding of who he really is. This book is not for everyone as the sexual situations are somewhat extreme in nature as the writer takes the reader on James’ journey as he experiences every conceivable sexual situation, including M/M, BDSM, M/F, M/M/F and F/F. Overall I was enthralled with James’ sexual exploration and I definitely needed a fan to cool off while reading it!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Barb from Alpha Book Club
Author: E. B. Barrett
Reviewer: Barb
Release Date: May 14, 2015
Genre(s): MF Romance, MM Romance, MMF, FF, BDSM
Page Count: 125
Heat Level: 4.5 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Review:
****4 Sexual Awakening Stars****
This short novella was very unique and I really enjoyed reading it! It was so different, but in a way, familiar in that a young man embarks on a journey, over several years, to find what his true sexual orientation is. This book was told from James’ POV and the writer captured all of his emotions, angst, sexual inhibitions, and finally finding a love and understanding of who he really is. This book is not for everyone as the sexual situations are somewhat extreme in nature as the writer takes the reader on James’ journey as he experiences every conceivable sexual situation, including M/M, BDSM, M/F, M/M/F and F/F. Overall I was enthralled with James’ sexual exploration and I definitely needed a fan to cool off while reading it!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Barb from Alpha Book Club
April 24, 2016
Elegant, flawless writing, exquisitely crafted characters and a completely filthy imagination make for an unforgettable story. In fact, this might just be the most powerful erotic story I can remember reading.
On one level, this is a new adult story of self-discovery. At college, James’ girlfriend pushes him beyond his comfort zone as she drags him along on her quest to find her kink. After college, James pursues a crush on a former professor as he explores his own kinks in Amsterdam.
The struggle of a mathematical genius to find his place in the world is also the struggle of the bisexual young adult to discover his sexual identity while forming the relationships that will shape his life.
I think my reaction to this story was so powerful because the author made me care fiercely for James, for Amee in all her guises, and for our good professor. This is sexier because of the humanity the writer brings to her characters.
I love the lack of judgement, the strong relationships that exist beyond the boundaries of heteronormative structures and I love the range of imaginative sexual encounters in this story. I recommend this for readers who enjoy erotica but find themselves unmoved by formulaic BDSM stories full of recycled characters and scenarios. This is different and I absolutely loved it.
I was given a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
On one level, this is a new adult story of self-discovery. At college, James’ girlfriend pushes him beyond his comfort zone as she drags him along on her quest to find her kink. After college, James pursues a crush on a former professor as he explores his own kinks in Amsterdam.
The struggle of a mathematical genius to find his place in the world is also the struggle of the bisexual young adult to discover his sexual identity while forming the relationships that will shape his life.
I think my reaction to this story was so powerful because the author made me care fiercely for James, for Amee in all her guises, and for our good professor. This is sexier because of the humanity the writer brings to her characters.
I love the lack of judgement, the strong relationships that exist beyond the boundaries of heteronormative structures and I love the range of imaginative sexual encounters in this story. I recommend this for readers who enjoy erotica but find themselves unmoved by formulaic BDSM stories full of recycled characters and scenarios. This is different and I absolutely loved it.
I was given a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
April 24, 2016
This book in my opinion is awesome! The author really hit on what I think a lot of our younger generation questions about themselves. I think it’s only natural to question which sex you’re attracted to. I also think it’s only natural to experiment when you’re young.
James and Amee do that. Amee really pushes James to go outside his box. As the 2 lovers experiment, Amee discovers she is a Dominatrix and James hasn’t lost the love he felt for his professor, Joseph.
The 2 part ways so Amee can pursue her dominant side and James can try to find what/who makes him happy. We are taken on a journey between his past and present self as James discovers who he is and how to accept himself for loving the people he loves.
The story is well written and keeps the reader engaged to the end. I had some serious Aha moments myself while reading this story. I love when I can read a book and it makes me question myself or something I believe about myself. That’s great. I received a free copy of this book from Inked Rainbow Review in exchange for an honest review.
James and Amee do that. Amee really pushes James to go outside his box. As the 2 lovers experiment, Amee discovers she is a Dominatrix and James hasn’t lost the love he felt for his professor, Joseph.
The 2 part ways so Amee can pursue her dominant side and James can try to find what/who makes him happy. We are taken on a journey between his past and present self as James discovers who he is and how to accept himself for loving the people he loves.
The story is well written and keeps the reader engaged to the end. I had some serious Aha moments myself while reading this story. I love when I can read a book and it makes me question myself or something I believe about myself. That’s great. I received a free copy of this book from Inked Rainbow Review in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2016
Going in I was quite sure what to think as I've never read a book fully in the mind of a bisexual man before. Yes there's hints of it in other books, where they end up finding a man and being with only him. It doesn't show the struggle of finding out who they really are. In James' head, we get to live through that. I didn't expect that aspect of the book, seeing that it's an "erotic novel" and only expected basically a bunch of sex. Of course there is that, especially as James is testing the waters, but there was also a deeper underlying message through it all, and that was the surprise.
The closing chapter was such an awesome take on humanity as a whole, through the eyes of math, I was pretty impressed by that.
So, if you're looking for a steamy read with a little bit of depth, and don't mind MF/MMF/MM and a bit of BDSM, then this book is definitely for you. (and that was a lot of acronyms)
3.5*
**given by Indigo as an ARC for my honest review**
The closing chapter was such an awesome take on humanity as a whole, through the eyes of math, I was pretty impressed by that.
So, if you're looking for a steamy read with a little bit of depth, and don't mind MF/MMF/MM and a bit of BDSM, then this book is definitely for you. (and that was a lot of acronyms)
3.5*
**given by Indigo as an ARC for my honest review**
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