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Klockwerk Kraken #1
The Klockwerk Kraken
When the right space pilot walks into his bar, a desperate bartender uses all his wiles (and tentacles) to talk the man into business and his bed--but the spacer is still enslaved by his past and isn't sure he can deal with a two-handed lover, much less one with six.
As the supply shipments stop coming, Teo Houdin needs all his tentacles to keep his waystation bar open. Facing a riot by thirsty miners stranded in the backwater of the galaxy, Teo helps a greenie space pilot buy a ship in return for a regular haul of liquor. But he longs for the courage to invite the enigmatic spacer to fill his lonely bed as well.
Still smarting from his newly implanted navigational ports, Jimenez knows owning his own ship will prevent him from ever being bought and sold again. For a former slave, transporting cargo through the emptiness of space sounds like paradise, but after meeting the compassionate and sexy Teo, his heart feels empty, too.
At the edge of the galaxy's spiral arm, can Teo convince Jimenez that the heart has its own tentacles and theirs should be entwined forever?
As the supply shipments stop coming, Teo Houdin needs all his tentacles to keep his waystation bar open. Facing a riot by thirsty miners stranded in the backwater of the galaxy, Teo helps a greenie space pilot buy a ship in return for a regular haul of liquor. But he longs for the courage to invite the enigmatic spacer to fill his lonely bed as well.
Still smarting from his newly implanted navigational ports, Jimenez knows owning his own ship will prevent him from ever being bought and sold again. For a former slave, transporting cargo through the emptiness of space sounds like paradise, but after meeting the compassionate and sexy Teo, his heart feels empty, too.
At the edge of the galaxy's spiral arm, can Teo convince Jimenez that the heart has its own tentacles and theirs should be entwined forever?
141 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 28, 2015
1 person is currently reading
331 people want to read
About the author
Aidee Ladnier
15 books365 followersAidee Ladnier, an award-winning author of speculative fiction, believes that adventure is around every corner. In pursuit of new experiences, she’s worked as a magician’s assistant, been a beauty pageant contestant, ridden in hot air balloons, produced independent movies, hiked up a volcano, and is a proud citizen scientist. A lover of genre fiction, Aidee’s perfect romance has a little science fiction, fantasy, mystery, or the paranormal thrown in to add a zing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
November 19, 2017
Holy guacamole! The cover of this book didn’t do this one any justice. I was going into reading this one expecting an ok story with weird kinky tentacle sex and boy ..boy .. boy .. was I wrong! This was a very VERY fantastic read and I love every single second reading it!!! 😍😍😍
Teo is a Celosian who are evolutionary humans with four extra tentacles. Celosians aka Pods are known to be very family oriented and very few of them ever leave their home planet. But our Teo has an itchy feet and he’s been traveling all over galaxy and now settled down at switchway station opening a bar of his own. A successful bar, good friends and a happy lifestyle, Teo’s life is real good.
Jimenez is a former body slave and just recently released from his servitude. He wants to escape from his nightmares and the experiences of being a pleasure slave. Now, he dreams of flying and piloting a spaceship and enjoy his solitude and freedom transporting goods across galaxy. But the bar owner who helped him to buy his new ship and saved him from losing all his saving to a bad dealer irritated and agitated him. Nope, not because of the reasons you think my fellow readers, because Teo wavered his decision of being a hermit and attracted him like a moth to a flame.
The most surprising thing about this novel is the sex is not weird or kinky at all. 😁 It’s just really hot and erotic lovemaking without being usual alien weird. The storyline is amazing and the character building is incredible. 😊 The plots and twists, omg, don’t even get me started .. just awesome! 👏 I love how Teo helped Jimenez overcome his fear and anxiety issues and made him feel whole and complete. The attraction and relationship aspect between these two is simply lovely, natural, fascinating and attractive. 😍This book surprised the helloutta me! I’d have given this book 5 stars if not for that cover!😂
4.75 very happy hello tentacle kind and sexy alien stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
Teo is a Celosian who are evolutionary humans with four extra tentacles. Celosians aka Pods are known to be very family oriented and very few of them ever leave their home planet. But our Teo has an itchy feet and he’s been traveling all over galaxy and now settled down at switchway station opening a bar of his own. A successful bar, good friends and a happy lifestyle, Teo’s life is real good.
Jimenez is a former body slave and just recently released from his servitude. He wants to escape from his nightmares and the experiences of being a pleasure slave. Now, he dreams of flying and piloting a spaceship and enjoy his solitude and freedom transporting goods across galaxy. But the bar owner who helped him to buy his new ship and saved him from losing all his saving to a bad dealer irritated and agitated him. Nope, not because of the reasons you think my fellow readers, because Teo wavered his decision of being a hermit and attracted him like a moth to a flame.
The most surprising thing about this novel is the sex is not weird or kinky at all. 😁 It’s just really hot and erotic lovemaking without being usual alien weird. The storyline is amazing and the character building is incredible. 😊 The plots and twists, omg, don’t even get me started .. just awesome! 👏 I love how Teo helped Jimenez overcome his fear and anxiety issues and made him feel whole and complete. The attraction and relationship aspect between these two is simply lovely, natural, fascinating and attractive. 😍This book surprised the helloutta me! I’d have given this book 5 stars if not for that cover!😂
4.75 very happy hello tentacle kind and sexy alien stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
May 26, 2017
Cross-posted at Outlaw Reviews and at Shelf Inflicted
Betentacled Teo Houdin is proud proprietor of the Klockwerk Kraken, a unique bar located in a remote outer space way station, which makes it difficult for Teo to keep a regular supply of booze on hand. Though he comes from a large and loving family, Teo craved independence and wanted to see more of the galaxy, so he left the planet of Celos.
Jiminez is a former slave adjusting to normal life and looking to buy a ship in order to ensure he remains free.
When Jiminez sets foot in Teo’s bar, their attraction is instant. Teo helps Jiminez find a suitable ship with the condition that Jiminez obtains regular shipments of liquor to help keep Teo’s bar running. While the men act on their feelings early on, the relationship takes time to develop. Jiminez is guarded, secretive, has scars and low self-esteem, and is deeply affected by his past trauma. This conflicts with Teo’s warmth and openness in expressing affection. I love how Teo wears his feelings on his tentacles!
While their sex was blazing hot, this was more than romance and erotica. Jiminez gradually opened up to Teo about his past, his fears, and his love for poetry. There was also an engaging plot that revolved around a mysterious fire and Jiminez’ possible culpability. The world that Teo and Jiminez inhabit was skillfully described without an overload of unnecessary detail or technical jargon, so one does not have to be a science fiction fan to enjoy this story. It should appeal to those readers who enjoy space operas with a dose of erotica.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It was fun, lightly humorous, comfortably paced, sexy and touching.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Betentacled Teo Houdin is proud proprietor of the Klockwerk Kraken, a unique bar located in a remote outer space way station, which makes it difficult for Teo to keep a regular supply of booze on hand. Though he comes from a large and loving family, Teo craved independence and wanted to see more of the galaxy, so he left the planet of Celos.
Jiminez is a former slave adjusting to normal life and looking to buy a ship in order to ensure he remains free.
When Jiminez sets foot in Teo’s bar, their attraction is instant. Teo helps Jiminez find a suitable ship with the condition that Jiminez obtains regular shipments of liquor to help keep Teo’s bar running. While the men act on their feelings early on, the relationship takes time to develop. Jiminez is guarded, secretive, has scars and low self-esteem, and is deeply affected by his past trauma. This conflicts with Teo’s warmth and openness in expressing affection. I love how Teo wears his feelings on his tentacles!
While their sex was blazing hot, this was more than romance and erotica. Jiminez gradually opened up to Teo about his past, his fears, and his love for poetry. There was also an engaging plot that revolved around a mysterious fire and Jiminez’ possible culpability. The world that Teo and Jiminez inhabit was skillfully described without an overload of unnecessary detail or technical jargon, so one does not have to be a science fiction fan to enjoy this story. It should appeal to those readers who enjoy space operas with a dose of erotica.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It was fun, lightly humorous, comfortably paced, sexy and touching.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2016
Well, this was a really enjoyable, feel-good read! I have to admit that I didn't know what to expect from this AT ALL. I've been having some issues this past week, stalling out on all the books I'm reading, getting distracted with anything that has a slow pace and feeling generally like I can't find anything engaging to read. So when I started this one, all I was really thinking of was that this might be a fun TENTACLE SEX read to get me out of my book funk! But it was so much more than that with an engaging storyline, and was just the right kind of read for my mood.
I got my new kindle this week and its much easier to make notes on as the software is faster, so I ended up writing a LONG review with all my notes, but I have added a summary at the end! :/
All the things I liked:
To start off we meet Teo in his bar and I immediately liked him as he wasn't what I expected from the blurb – he's on the comm unit to all his family while working the bar and it's obviously a common thing as the regulars are even saying 'Hi' to his family too - I loved seeing the conversations between Teo and his family throughout the story actually – they just seemed like this great big warm, caring group, all asking questions, offering advice, all talking over one another and interfering etc. I like the way they are portrayed and wouldn't have minded seeing more of them.
We get introduced to Jimenez when he first sets eyes on Teo – and whilst it is insta-attraction between them (which I don't usually care for), they at least don't act on it immediately. Even when they get together relatively early on in the book, you still see their relationship develop over time so it's believable.
As per the blurb, Jimenez is a former slave and so there is a nice little bit of hurt/comfort, and the slave culture is quite interesting with neural programming and rehabilitation for ex-slaves – Jimenez is quite a scarred character and we get the impression that he has had to deal with abuse in his past. But, despite this, he also comes across as determined and quite strong to pick up his life the way he has done.
The pair of them are actually really very likeable characters – and I loved the two of them together every time they meet up, or when they are communicating while Jimenez is away on his cargo runs. Jimenez is sooooo sweet and shy and bashful sometimes, with his poetry and his ‘silent-type’ character.
"...poetry uses small words with big meanings. I like it."
I particularly liked the way we gradually learn about Jimenez’ background, the slave aspect and the neural programming throughout the story, through both his reveals and observations of secondary characters like Katy... rather than everything being revealed immediately. It kept things interesting and we were told just enough and at the right pace that I didn't feel bored at any point.
Hhhhmmm – the ‘desire tattoo’ with it’s neural link was pretty interesting – I wouldn’t have minded seeing more about that ;)
Oh and I LOVED the gift Jimenez buys for Teo – I might even have “awwww'd” when he gave it to him :) It was just really perfect and so nicely described - I could just imagine it. I really want one for myself! [I couldn't find a picture that fit my idea of it or I would have posted one here!]
I felt we learnt just enough about the world, the people and the backgrounds of the characters to build a decent picture of everything in my mind, including the details of the sci-fi world/elements, without being filled with jargon and info-dumps. For anyone who isn't too keen on sci-fi and not sure about reading this, although I enjoy traditional sci-fi, this is probably more “sci-fi light” I guess.
A couple of things I didn’t like so much:
My main criticism is that I would have preferred to have more conversation between the characters during the middle parts of the book – it felt that although they knew each other for some time and they kept in touch while Jimenez was away, when they meet up during this part of the story there is only very brief conversation and sex. So from what we saw, they couldn't really have known each other *that* well and therefore if I consider it critically, I couldn’t really understand why they would've liked each other so much. HOWEVER, saying that, it didn't really bother me while reading, as their friendship and relationship do develop over an extended period of time – no premature declarations of love here! - and they do end up spending more time together later on.
Although the ending was clearly a nice HEA, I'm a little disappointed we didn't get to see more of Celos, as there was something intriguing about Teo's family and this planet that made me want to learn more.
Finally, I wish it were a bit longer! This is still a decent length story at 155 pages, but I would have been very happy to have a bit more :)
Overall: An enjoyable, feel-good read without being overly sweet/cute. I thought it was well-written, interesting and had two very likeable characters. There was a little bit of hurt/comfort going on, a sweet romance and a bit of angst & excitement/intrigue but not too much. It could have been a little longer to allow for getting to know each other better through the middle of the book but had an interesting storyline with what felt to me a decent pace that didn't leave me bored – I read this straight through. Oh and did I mention TENTACLE SEX! :)
I just have to say that I loved the title too.
So I would definitely check out more from this author and would even like to read more stories set in this world, especially set on Celos.
*This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
I got my new kindle this week and its much easier to make notes on as the software is faster, so I ended up writing a LONG review with all my notes, but I have added a summary at the end! :/
All the things I liked:
To start off we meet Teo in his bar and I immediately liked him as he wasn't what I expected from the blurb – he's on the comm unit to all his family while working the bar and it's obviously a common thing as the regulars are even saying 'Hi' to his family too - I loved seeing the conversations between Teo and his family throughout the story actually – they just seemed like this great big warm, caring group, all asking questions, offering advice, all talking over one another and interfering etc. I like the way they are portrayed and wouldn't have minded seeing more of them.
We get introduced to Jimenez when he first sets eyes on Teo – and whilst it is insta-attraction between them (which I don't usually care for), they at least don't act on it immediately. Even when they get together relatively early on in the book, you still see their relationship develop over time so it's believable.
As per the blurb, Jimenez is a former slave and so there is a nice little bit of hurt/comfort, and the slave culture is quite interesting with neural programming and rehabilitation for ex-slaves – Jimenez is quite a scarred character and we get the impression that he has had to deal with abuse in his past. But, despite this, he also comes across as determined and quite strong to pick up his life the way he has done.
The pair of them are actually really very likeable characters – and I loved the two of them together every time they meet up, or when they are communicating while Jimenez is away on his cargo runs. Jimenez is sooooo sweet and shy and bashful sometimes, with his poetry and his ‘silent-type’ character.
"...poetry uses small words with big meanings. I like it."
I particularly liked the way we gradually learn about Jimenez’ background, the slave aspect and the neural programming throughout the story, through both his reveals and observations of secondary characters like Katy... rather than everything being revealed immediately. It kept things interesting and we were told just enough and at the right pace that I didn't feel bored at any point.
Hhhhmmm – the ‘desire tattoo’ with it’s neural link was pretty interesting – I wouldn’t have minded seeing more about that ;)
Oh and I LOVED the gift Jimenez buys for Teo – I might even have “awwww'd” when he gave it to him :) It was just really perfect and so nicely described - I could just imagine it. I really want one for myself! [I couldn't find a picture that fit my idea of it or I would have posted one here!]
I felt we learnt just enough about the world, the people and the backgrounds of the characters to build a decent picture of everything in my mind, including the details of the sci-fi world/elements, without being filled with jargon and info-dumps. For anyone who isn't too keen on sci-fi and not sure about reading this, although I enjoy traditional sci-fi, this is probably more “sci-fi light” I guess.
A couple of things I didn’t like so much:
My main criticism is that I would have preferred to have more conversation between the characters during the middle parts of the book – it felt that although they knew each other for some time and they kept in touch while Jimenez was away, when they meet up during this part of the story there is only very brief conversation and sex. So from what we saw, they couldn't really have known each other *that* well and therefore if I consider it critically, I couldn’t really understand why they would've liked each other so much. HOWEVER, saying that, it didn't really bother me while reading, as their friendship and relationship do develop over an extended period of time – no premature declarations of love here! - and they do end up spending more time together later on.
Although the ending was clearly a nice HEA, I'm a little disappointed we didn't get to see more of Celos, as there was something intriguing about Teo's family and this planet that made me want to learn more.
Finally, I wish it were a bit longer! This is still a decent length story at 155 pages, but I would have been very happy to have a bit more :)
Overall: An enjoyable, feel-good read without being overly sweet/cute. I thought it was well-written, interesting and had two very likeable characters. There was a little bit of hurt/comfort going on, a sweet romance and a bit of angst & excitement/intrigue but not too much. It could have been a little longer to allow for getting to know each other better through the middle of the book but had an interesting storyline with what felt to me a decent pace that didn't leave me bored – I read this straight through. Oh and did I mention TENTACLE SEX! :)
I just have to say that I loved the title too.
So I would definitely check out more from this author and would even like to read more stories set in this world, especially set on Celos.
*This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
September 10, 2015
"Stars in my teeth
Drunk in the music of the universe
Wild and tumbling
Exhaling out creation forever"
This story it is full of romance and conflict between two guys who find love in the far reaches of the universe.
Jimenez has endured slavery. He has finally saved enough to buy his own craft, and dreams of the solace of space to be alone and free. Jimenez is happy with his own company, and some poetry to read on his journey.
Teo escaped a huge and adoring family to make his own way and find adventure and independence. He has set up a bar The Klockwerk Kraken on the last space station before Nothing. All Teo needs to keep his clients happy is regular deliveries that will stock his bar.
Jimenez and Teo strike up a business partnership. Teo is an extrovert with a jubilant and expressive personality whilst Jimenez is an introvert, much more withdrawn and wary, but they find each other irresistible. Over time their attraction grows much deeper than either anticipates.
Teo worries that Jimenez may be repulsed by his tentacles and Jimenez frets that if Teo discovers his secret that he has been bred for slavery then his lover will no longer want a relationship.
Their courtship is slow, however the pace of the book is fast and ebullient.
I read The Klockwerk Kraken with great delight. The sci-fi is quite light but it brings interesting ideas and the story has great charm.
This book is fun and engaged me from the first to the last page. Both Jimenez and Teo are fascinating guys. They are very different and both have flaws but they share integrity and determination. Jimenez and Teo may not have been looking for love, but the chemistry between them is full of spark and passion. The sex is great and they gradually discover they are happier together than apart. Plans previously made for their own lives may be worth changing to meet each other's needs.
The Klockwerk Kracken is quite a quick read but it is delightful. I would have preferred some more details about Jimenez' earlier life but for all its brevity the story is convincing and well executed.
Highly recommended for both tentacle and male/male romance lovers.
** I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review as part of the M/M Romance group's Don't Buy My Love event **
February 18, 2019
5 Stars
Oh my stars! What a delightful story. I read this all in one sitting; it was so lovely. The scifi worldbuilding is fascinating, but this is really a character driven story. It is about two unique souls finding their beloved counterpart in a distant part of the galaxy.
What I love most about this story is the compassion and kindness shared by the two MCs. The two characters are earnest, engaging, sympathetic and just plain sweet. When Teo, the gregarious and tentacled bar owner smiles, it lights up the room. When Jimenez, the shy and quiet former slave offers Teo a wondrous gift, my heart melted.
These two characters are nice people/aliens. I would want to be friends with them. Being in their world for a day was like being surrounded by a group of tumbling puppies and kittens; I was in heaven.
This story will be a comfort re-read for me. Highly recommend.
Oh my stars! What a delightful story. I read this all in one sitting; it was so lovely. The scifi worldbuilding is fascinating, but this is really a character driven story. It is about two unique souls finding their beloved counterpart in a distant part of the galaxy.
What I love most about this story is the compassion and kindness shared by the two MCs. The two characters are earnest, engaging, sympathetic and just plain sweet. When Teo, the gregarious and tentacled bar owner smiles, it lights up the room. When Jimenez, the shy and quiet former slave offers Teo a wondrous gift, my heart melted.
These two characters are nice people/aliens. I would want to be friends with them. Being in their world for a day was like being surrounded by a group of tumbling puppies and kittens; I was in heaven.
This story will be a comfort re-read for me. Highly recommend.
July 30, 2015
Tentacle lovers, this is a book for you! Ms. Ladnier is a new to me author who delights me with her tentacle m/m space opera romance. Teo Houdin is a Celosian far from home. He runs a bar near the end of the universe…called the Kraken. This makes perfect sense since Teo is a humanoid enhanced with multiple arms. His tentacles help him work faster and sex is definitely an experience not to be missed. Used to one-night stands, Teo is in a sexual lull and experiencing ennui. Then in walks in the sexy wet behind the ears, Jimenez.
I can be bribed with titillating tentacle sex and no plot. Luckily, this story contains both smexy tentacle sex and a good plot. The characters are also lovingly created. I really liked Teo and how he wants to be distinguished outside of his family. He is an individual from a community of conformist. He doesn't resent them. He loves his family and he is proud of the community he's from. He just wants to be special and he is out to proves it. Jimenez is an admirable character. He is the underdog who does what he believe is right. He started out in life at the bottom and he has no desire to stay there. He will do what it takes to make his dreams come true.
Teo and his love interest, Jimenez are adorable. Both men have their own baggage. This doesn't bring them down. Instead, it helps them become stronger and better. The tension in their relationship makes the sex hotter. Ms. Ladnier does a fantastic job in the sex scenes - definitely a panty wetting goodness experience. Along with the erotic scenes, there is a plot which culminates to an intense conflict. This conflict is a doozy. Ms. Ladnier does a good job of setting it up and resolving it in a plausible manner with a happily ever after.
This story may be short in pages, but it is tightly written and robust in descriptions and emotions. The story pace moves at just the right speed. The world building is intriguing and makes a reader want to learn more. One can only hope there will be another story in this fun world. With great characters, hawt sex and a clockwork kraken, what more can a reader want? Recommended to space opera lovers who enjoy m/m happily ever after romances.
* Review copy provided via Reading Alley in exchange for an honest review.
I can be bribed with titillating tentacle sex and no plot. Luckily, this story contains both smexy tentacle sex and a good plot. The characters are also lovingly created. I really liked Teo and how he wants to be distinguished outside of his family. He is an individual from a community of conformist. He doesn't resent them. He loves his family and he is proud of the community he's from. He just wants to be special and he is out to proves it. Jimenez is an admirable character. He is the underdog who does what he believe is right. He started out in life at the bottom and he has no desire to stay there. He will do what it takes to make his dreams come true.
Teo and his love interest, Jimenez are adorable. Both men have their own baggage. This doesn't bring them down. Instead, it helps them become stronger and better. The tension in their relationship makes the sex hotter. Ms. Ladnier does a fantastic job in the sex scenes - definitely a panty wetting goodness experience. Along with the erotic scenes, there is a plot which culminates to an intense conflict. This conflict is a doozy. Ms. Ladnier does a good job of setting it up and resolving it in a plausible manner with a happily ever after.
This story may be short in pages, but it is tightly written and robust in descriptions and emotions. The story pace moves at just the right speed. The world building is intriguing and makes a reader want to learn more. One can only hope there will be another story in this fun world. With great characters, hawt sex and a clockwork kraken, what more can a reader want? Recommended to space opera lovers who enjoy m/m happily ever after romances.
* Review copy provided via Reading Alley in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2016
Okay, yeah, tentacles. In space. But this book is surprisingly sweet and very well-written.
The sci-fi bits were just enough to satisfy my inner geek without overwhelming the story. The tentacles were not squicky. And the characters were great. Not only did I like the many-appendaged Teo and strong, damaged Jimenez, but I was also fond of Teo's large and enthusiastic family. I also like that the story is out of the ordinary.
The last quarter of the book felt a little rushed to me, but overall it was very enjoyable. I'll be reading the sequel.
The sci-fi bits were just enough to satisfy my inner geek without overwhelming the story. The tentacles were not squicky. And the characters were great. Not only did I like the many-appendaged Teo and strong, damaged Jimenez, but I was also fond of Teo's large and enthusiastic family. I also like that the story is out of the ordinary.
The last quarter of the book felt a little rushed to me, but overall it was very enjoyable. I'll be reading the sequel.
July 29, 2015
★★★★☆ ~ 4 Stars
A sweet, little angst take of former slave, Jimenez, recovering from years of abusive slavery and pod Teo (a genetically modified human). Teo wears his heart on his sleeves and tentacles and the first time he meets Jimenez, he helps him to fulfill his dream of becoming a cargo pilot and they have an ongoing meetup relationship that slowly becomes deeper until Jimenez is caught up in something out of his hands.
Jimenez has many scars both inside and outside, can he trust Teo enough to let him in and help him heal?
I think I'd like to read more from this author.
A sweet, little angst take of former slave, Jimenez, recovering from years of abusive slavery and pod Teo (a genetically modified human). Teo wears his heart on his sleeves and tentacles and the first time he meets Jimenez, he helps him to fulfill his dream of becoming a cargo pilot and they have an ongoing meetup relationship that slowly becomes deeper until Jimenez is caught up in something out of his hands.
Jimenez has many scars both inside and outside, can he trust Teo enough to let him in and help him heal?
I think I'd like to read more from this author.
November 11, 2015
English Review
Teo Houdin is a POD, a descendant genetically modified humans. He is the owner of a bar in a remote corner of the galaxy and his tentacles are a great help in this business.
Jimenez is a former slave. He made implanted navigational ports through which he can fly a ship.
When Jimenez comes take a drink at Teo’s bar, this one tries to initiate a conversation, which is not easy because Jimenez does not speak. Teo eventually prevents Jimenez of buying a vessel in poor condition and offers to help him find a better one. In exchange, Jimenez became his regular carrier and will give him regular supplies of liquor.
Let me begin by putting one thing clear: yes, Teo has tentacles but there is nothing perverse in this book, I assure you. Rather, it is a beautiful love story.
I loved this story and I have a hard time trying to explain why! I'll try to give you the criteria to see if it might please you too.
No need to be madly in love with Sci Fi to enjoy this book, just love to read some of it occasionally. I'm not a fan of space opera for example and it does not prevented me to love this story. If you enjoy the paranormal romances, you can also give a chance to this book.
You obviously need to enjoy romances M/M with erotic scenes. It was a first for me. The only romance M/M that I had read was the background for a book and there was nothing erotic. The fact that it's two men is not important actually. We focus on two touching characters and the sex scenes are sensual and enjoyable to read.
Conclusion: a beautiful love story between two touching characters with a Sci Fi background. Read this book!
Avis en français
Teo Houdin est un POD, un descendant génétiquement modifié des humains. Il est le propriétaire d’un bar dans un coin perdu de la galaxie et ses tentacules sont une grande aide dans ce métier.
Jimenez est un ancien esclave. Il s’est fait implanter des ports de navigation grâce auxquels il peut piloter un vaisseau.
Quand Jimenez vient prendre un verre au bar de Teo, celui-ci essaye d’engager une conversation, ce qui n’est pas simple car Jimenez ne parle pas. Teo finit par empêcher Jimenez de faire une mauvaise affaire en achetant un vaisseau en mauvais état et lui propose de l’aider à en trouver un meilleur. En échange, Jimenez devient son transporteur attitré et va lui procurer des ravitaillements réguliers de liqueur.
Je voudrais commencer par mettre une chose au clair : oui, Teo a des tentacules mais il n’y a rien de pervers dans ce livre, je vous rassure. C’est plutôt une magnifique histoire d’amour.
J’ai adoré cette histoire et j’ai un mal fou à essayer d’expliquer pourquoi ! Je vais essayer de vous donner des critères pour savoir si ça pourrait vous plaire à vous aussi.
Pas besoin d’être raide dingue de SF pour apprécier ce livre, juste d’aimer en lire de temps en temps. Je ne suis pas fan de space opéra par exemple et cela ne m’a pas empêchée d’aimer cette histoire. Si vous appréciez les romances paranormales, vous pouvez aussi donner une chance à ce livre.
Il faut évidemment apprécier les romances M/M avec des scènes érotiques. C’était une première pour moi. La seule romance M/M que j’avais lue était au second plan d’un livre et il n’y avait rien d’érotique. Le fait que ce soit 2 hommes n’est pas important en fait. On s’attache à 2 personnages touchants et les scènes de sexe sont sensuelles et agréables à lire.
Conclusion : une belle histoire d’amour entre 2 personnages touchants sur fond de SF. Lisez ce livre !
Teo Houdin is a POD, a descendant genetically modified humans. He is the owner of a bar in a remote corner of the galaxy and his tentacles are a great help in this business.
Jimenez is a former slave. He made implanted navigational ports through which he can fly a ship.
When Jimenez comes take a drink at Teo’s bar, this one tries to initiate a conversation, which is not easy because Jimenez does not speak. Teo eventually prevents Jimenez of buying a vessel in poor condition and offers to help him find a better one. In exchange, Jimenez became his regular carrier and will give him regular supplies of liquor.
Let me begin by putting one thing clear: yes, Teo has tentacles but there is nothing perverse in this book, I assure you. Rather, it is a beautiful love story.
I loved this story and I have a hard time trying to explain why! I'll try to give you the criteria to see if it might please you too.
No need to be madly in love with Sci Fi to enjoy this book, just love to read some of it occasionally. I'm not a fan of space opera for example and it does not prevented me to love this story. If you enjoy the paranormal romances, you can also give a chance to this book.
You obviously need to enjoy romances M/M with erotic scenes. It was a first for me. The only romance M/M that I had read was the background for a book and there was nothing erotic. The fact that it's two men is not important actually. We focus on two touching characters and the sex scenes are sensual and enjoyable to read.
Conclusion: a beautiful love story between two touching characters with a Sci Fi background. Read this book!
Avis en français
Teo Houdin est un POD, un descendant génétiquement modifié des humains. Il est le propriétaire d’un bar dans un coin perdu de la galaxie et ses tentacules sont une grande aide dans ce métier.
Jimenez est un ancien esclave. Il s’est fait implanter des ports de navigation grâce auxquels il peut piloter un vaisseau.
Quand Jimenez vient prendre un verre au bar de Teo, celui-ci essaye d’engager une conversation, ce qui n’est pas simple car Jimenez ne parle pas. Teo finit par empêcher Jimenez de faire une mauvaise affaire en achetant un vaisseau en mauvais état et lui propose de l’aider à en trouver un meilleur. En échange, Jimenez devient son transporteur attitré et va lui procurer des ravitaillements réguliers de liqueur.
Je voudrais commencer par mettre une chose au clair : oui, Teo a des tentacules mais il n’y a rien de pervers dans ce livre, je vous rassure. C’est plutôt une magnifique histoire d’amour.
J’ai adoré cette histoire et j’ai un mal fou à essayer d’expliquer pourquoi ! Je vais essayer de vous donner des critères pour savoir si ça pourrait vous plaire à vous aussi.
Pas besoin d’être raide dingue de SF pour apprécier ce livre, juste d’aimer en lire de temps en temps. Je ne suis pas fan de space opéra par exemple et cela ne m’a pas empêchée d’aimer cette histoire. Si vous appréciez les romances paranormales, vous pouvez aussi donner une chance à ce livre.
Il faut évidemment apprécier les romances M/M avec des scènes érotiques. C’était une première pour moi. La seule romance M/M que j’avais lue était au second plan d’un livre et il n’y avait rien d’érotique. Le fait que ce soit 2 hommes n’est pas important en fait. On s’attache à 2 personnages touchants et les scènes de sexe sont sensuelles et agréables à lire.
Conclusion : une belle histoire d’amour entre 2 personnages touchants sur fond de SF. Lisez ce livre !
September 13, 2015
I received a copy of this book via Goodreads' Don't Buy My Love program in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Stars
Teo Houdin is a Celosian, a tentacled humanoid male. This means in addition to his two arms and two legs, he has four tentacles which erupt from his back. His is attractive, and also desirable for partners seeking a bit, well, strange, but he's outgrown all the casual sex and longs for a more permanent partner. He owns a bar, the Klockwerk Kracken, in a refueling station at the edge of the Nothing--the span in their galaxy's spiral arm where there are no habitable planets for such a long distance that few pilots undertake the direct route through it to the center of their galaxy. Teo's business suffers from lack of reliable transport of liquors, so when a greenie pilot arrives in his bar, Teo helps Jimenez find a safe and reliable ship, in exchange for regular delivery visits at a discounted rate.
Jimenez is a freed and rehabilitated slave. He spent a long while on Celos, Teo's home planet, in an experimental program for freed slaves. He's totally attracted to Teo, but he's not sure if that's his own emotions or a remnant of his slave programming--he is still learning to negotiate in the world as an independent free man. Teo's offer of help is distressing, because Jimenez isn't sure if he should be offering some reciprocation for Teo's kindness. Traveling through empty silence of the Nothing is especially suited to Jimenez, who still fears crowds, loud noises and slaver ships.
Over the course of book, Teo and Jimenez do begin a sexual relationship, but it's a bit dine and dash--Jimenez shows up late in the evening, and leaves before Teo wakes. Teo would like more, but he's afraid to scare away his skittish partner. Jimenez is afraid to reveal too much of himself, particularly his scars from years as a slave.
I totally enjoyed the alien world and futuristic experience, here. Teo is so richly described, I adored how the movement of his tentacles betrayed his emotional landscape. I also loved how they were fully integrated in his daily life and in their bedplay. Teo is such a kind and generous soul, and Jimenez is still deeply scarred, emotionally, that Teo's an exceptional partner able to bring him past existing and into living. I felt fully immersed in a sci-fi world, without feeling overwhelmed with a lot of jargon and overdescription.
Teo and Jimenez begin to communicate during Jimenez's trips through the Nothing, and the rapport builds from sexual partners, into...more. They begin to share more of their lives, in bits and pieces, and Jimenez begins to relax--until a tragic fire on the space station turns all his dreams to ashes, it seems.
This is a really heartwarming story about two lonely souls who find sanctuary with each other. The slow build of the romance was perfect, and in accordance with Jimenez's inability to receive true affection. I liked how this was still difficult for him to accept, even at the end--it showed how deep his slave programming was, and how hard he had to work to overcome those instincts. Teo was a delight, and his large and loving tentacular family was just as charming. The end was an HEA.
4.5 Stars
Teo Houdin is a Celosian, a tentacled humanoid male. This means in addition to his two arms and two legs, he has four tentacles which erupt from his back. His is attractive, and also desirable for partners seeking a bit, well, strange, but he's outgrown all the casual sex and longs for a more permanent partner. He owns a bar, the Klockwerk Kracken, in a refueling station at the edge of the Nothing--the span in their galaxy's spiral arm where there are no habitable planets for such a long distance that few pilots undertake the direct route through it to the center of their galaxy. Teo's business suffers from lack of reliable transport of liquors, so when a greenie pilot arrives in his bar, Teo helps Jimenez find a safe and reliable ship, in exchange for regular delivery visits at a discounted rate.
Jimenez is a freed and rehabilitated slave. He spent a long while on Celos, Teo's home planet, in an experimental program for freed slaves. He's totally attracted to Teo, but he's not sure if that's his own emotions or a remnant of his slave programming--he is still learning to negotiate in the world as an independent free man. Teo's offer of help is distressing, because Jimenez isn't sure if he should be offering some reciprocation for Teo's kindness. Traveling through empty silence of the Nothing is especially suited to Jimenez, who still fears crowds, loud noises and slaver ships.
Over the course of book, Teo and Jimenez do begin a sexual relationship, but it's a bit dine and dash--Jimenez shows up late in the evening, and leaves before Teo wakes. Teo would like more, but he's afraid to scare away his skittish partner. Jimenez is afraid to reveal too much of himself, particularly his scars from years as a slave.
I totally enjoyed the alien world and futuristic experience, here. Teo is so richly described, I adored how the movement of his tentacles betrayed his emotional landscape. I also loved how they were fully integrated in his daily life and in their bedplay. Teo is such a kind and generous soul, and Jimenez is still deeply scarred, emotionally, that Teo's an exceptional partner able to bring him past existing and into living. I felt fully immersed in a sci-fi world, without feeling overwhelmed with a lot of jargon and overdescription.
Teo and Jimenez begin to communicate during Jimenez's trips through the Nothing, and the rapport builds from sexual partners, into...more. They begin to share more of their lives, in bits and pieces, and Jimenez begins to relax--until a tragic fire on the space station turns all his dreams to ashes, it seems.
This is a really heartwarming story about two lonely souls who find sanctuary with each other. The slow build of the romance was perfect, and in accordance with Jimenez's inability to receive true affection. I liked how this was still difficult for him to accept, even at the end--it showed how deep his slave programming was, and how hard he had to work to overcome those instincts. Teo was a delight, and his large and loving tentacular family was just as charming. The end was an HEA.
June 8, 2015
4 stars for a very solid "I really liked it" story. So much so, in fact, that I will definitely be picking this one up to re-read in the future.
My favorite parts: Teo & Jimenez. They were fantastic characters and had great chemistry. Teo was the classic outgoing, confident, personable bartender. It was cool how he'd mix several drinks at a time using all of his appendages. I also really liked the parallel between his personality and extra limbs; he's tactile and touchy-feely, but is also always the one to say "I love you" first in relationships.
Jimenez, on the other hand, enjoys touch and social contact (the later in small doses), but is overly shy and reserved, to the point that Teo at first thinks Jimenez just can't deal with the tentacles. Jimenez's hesitation is clarified once we see more into his background.
I also really enjoyed the slow(ish) buildup to Jimenez and Teo's relationship. Even though they got together quickly in terms of distance into the story, months had passed in the timeline because Jimenez was making trips across the galaxy to make deliveries. I'm not a big fan of insta-love, and I appreciated that while the two MCs both felt an instant attraction to each other, things progressed a little more slowly.
The reason I didn't give this story a fifth star was because I didn't care so much for the drama surrounding the fire in the second half. A completely personal and subjective reason, but I personally would have preferred to read a story focused solely on the relationship between Teo and Jimenez, instead of having angst and drama thrown in at the end.
If anyone out there is thinking of skipping this story because of squicky tentacle sex, you don't have to worry. The on-page sex is by and large "traditional" sex between two guys, and (I thought) pretty hot. That's not to say that Teo never uses his extra appendages during sex, but it's very tame.
Overall, this was a wonderful little story. This was my first time reading anything written by this author, and I will definitely be looking for more in the future. Highly recommended!
My favorite parts: Teo & Jimenez. They were fantastic characters and had great chemistry. Teo was the classic outgoing, confident, personable bartender. It was cool how he'd mix several drinks at a time using all of his appendages. I also really liked the parallel between his personality and extra limbs; he's tactile and touchy-feely, but is also always the one to say "I love you" first in relationships.
Jimenez, on the other hand, enjoys touch and social contact (the later in small doses), but is overly shy and reserved, to the point that Teo at first thinks Jimenez just can't deal with the tentacles. Jimenez's hesitation is clarified once we see more into his background.
I also really enjoyed the slow(ish) buildup to Jimenez and Teo's relationship. Even though they got together quickly in terms of distance into the story, months had passed in the timeline because Jimenez was making trips across the galaxy to make deliveries. I'm not a big fan of insta-love, and I appreciated that while the two MCs both felt an instant attraction to each other, things progressed a little more slowly.
The reason I didn't give this story a fifth star was because I didn't care so much for the drama surrounding the fire in the second half. A completely personal and subjective reason, but I personally would have preferred to read a story focused solely on the relationship between Teo and Jimenez, instead of having angst and drama thrown in at the end.
If anyone out there is thinking of skipping this story because of squicky tentacle sex, you don't have to worry. The on-page sex is by and large "traditional" sex between two guys, and (I thought) pretty hot. That's not to say that Teo never uses his extra appendages during sex, but it's very tame.
Overall, this was a wonderful little story. This was my first time reading anything written by this author, and I will definitely be looking for more in the future. Highly recommended!
February 22, 2016
Sci-fi M/m romance can be hit or miss for me, it's either too light on the romance, or too bogged down by convoluted plot and unpronounceable words and names. But I really, really loved this! Great world building, just enough to make it feel real and give the story substance, but them it did focus on the characters and their relationship.
I loved Teo right from the start of things, I loved him with his family, with people in the bar, AND his tentacles!! Jimenez was such an interesting character, I enjoyed how we slowly found out more of his backstory and his past. And, of course, I completely enjoyed them together.
I definitely recommend this to tentacle lovers, to sci-fi lovers, and those wanting a great story!
I loved Teo right from the start of things, I loved him with his family, with people in the bar, AND his tentacles!! Jimenez was such an interesting character, I enjoyed how we slowly found out more of his backstory and his past. And, of course, I completely enjoyed them together.
I definitely recommend this to tentacle lovers, to sci-fi lovers, and those wanting a great story!
September 22, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Klockwerk Kraken is a delight, which isn’t anything I ever thought I would say about a story in the “tentacle” genre! The main characters are Teo, a Celosian (looks like a human except with tentacles) who owns a bar on a remote space outpost and Jimenez a newly freed slave who is establishing himself as a space cargo pilot. Teo is an open-hearted man who is lonely despite having a large group of close friends. When he first sets eyes on Jimenez, he feels instant attraction, but is also drawn to Jimenez as a person. Jimenez is equally attracted to Teo, but the trauma of his past makes it very difficult to trust others, and he can’t believe Teo would want him as anything other than a fuck-buddy.
Jimenez is comfortable with his solitary life as a long-haul space pilot, going months without human contact. As his relationship with Teo grows, he finds himself missing Teo more and more, and even overcomes his natural reticence to call Teo whenever his ship is within range of a buoy. The sweetest moment for me was when Jimenez bought Teo a truly thoughtful gift and how shy he was to give it to him.
All is not smooth sailing for Jimenez though. He constantly has to stop himself from thinking like a slave and act as a freed man. Toward the end of the book, he encounters some newly freed slaves and tries to get them into rehabilitation so they wouldn’t fall into the clutches of slave traders. These freed slaves end up dragging Jimenez into a situation which spirals out of control and could lead to Jimenez losing everything he has gained.
There were many “moments” in this story that made it a step above others in the genre. The world-building was fantastic; I felt the vast emptiness of space, the camaraderie of the people who live and work on the space dock, and the warmth of the people of Celosia. The secondary characters were great too – some of Teo’s family members reminded me of my family. After a while, the tentacles didn’t seem weird at all; Jimenez would wedge his hand among them when he was feeling insecure. So cute. Such a good story. Sigh.
The Klockwerk Kraken is a delight, which isn’t anything I ever thought I would say about a story in the “tentacle” genre! The main characters are Teo, a Celosian (looks like a human except with tentacles) who owns a bar on a remote space outpost and Jimenez a newly freed slave who is establishing himself as a space cargo pilot. Teo is an open-hearted man who is lonely despite having a large group of close friends. When he first sets eyes on Jimenez, he feels instant attraction, but is also drawn to Jimenez as a person. Jimenez is equally attracted to Teo, but the trauma of his past makes it very difficult to trust others, and he can’t believe Teo would want him as anything other than a fuck-buddy.
Jimenez is comfortable with his solitary life as a long-haul space pilot, going months without human contact. As his relationship with Teo grows, he finds himself missing Teo more and more, and even overcomes his natural reticence to call Teo whenever his ship is within range of a buoy. The sweetest moment for me was when Jimenez bought Teo a truly thoughtful gift and how shy he was to give it to him.
All is not smooth sailing for Jimenez though. He constantly has to stop himself from thinking like a slave and act as a freed man. Toward the end of the book, he encounters some newly freed slaves and tries to get them into rehabilitation so they wouldn’t fall into the clutches of slave traders. These freed slaves end up dragging Jimenez into a situation which spirals out of control and could lead to Jimenez losing everything he has gained.
There were many “moments” in this story that made it a step above others in the genre. The world-building was fantastic; I felt the vast emptiness of space, the camaraderie of the people who live and work on the space dock, and the warmth of the people of Celosia. The secondary characters were great too – some of Teo’s family members reminded me of my family. After a while, the tentacles didn’t seem weird at all; Jimenez would wedge his hand among them when he was feeling insecure. So cute. Such a good story. Sigh.
July 11, 2015
So to be honest, from the title alone I'd anticipated a vaguely-Steampunk-themed tentacle porn story.
That's nowhere near what I got, and I couldn't have been more delighted. It turned out to be a spectacularly well-developed sci-fi story with two characters that I just completely fell in love with.
Teo is from a race of genetically-modified former-humans nicknamed "pods" because they were given prehensile tentacles. (Scenes with Teo using all six of his "appendages" to keep up with orders at his bar were wonderfully entertaining.) Teo's species live on a planet named Celos, and almost never leave. Teo's a rare exception. Wanting to stand out from his enormous family, Teo left and opened a bar he named the Klockwerk Kraken.
Jimenez comes into Teo's bar one night, excited that he'd finally gotten his captain's port installed (Matrix-like components in the back of his neck that let him connect to and pilot spaceships) and is about to buy his very own ship. Teo, attracted to the unusually-shy "spacer" warns him about the condition of the ship he's about to buy. They come to an arrangement in which Teo recommends a reputable seller and Jimenez agrees to become Teo's supplier.
Gradually learning more about each of them was a delightful journey. And the side characters were all lovely as well, Teo's family reminded me a lot of a big Italian family, and the regulars at the bar were great fun.
Surprisingly deep, wonderfully emotional, delightfully well-written. What a great surprise!
Some Favorite Quotes:
"I know that feeling. Sometimes the world you grow up in seems too small for you, like you want to crack through your skin and burst free."
It reminded him of his grandmother's saying that the heart has its own tentacles, and when it finds the lover it desires, it reaches for them.
"No.... I don't need you to hide."
But his feelings were too new for that. They bled at the edges where they'd punched through to his heart.
"But poetry uses small words with big meanings. I like it."
That's nowhere near what I got, and I couldn't have been more delighted. It turned out to be a spectacularly well-developed sci-fi story with two characters that I just completely fell in love with.
Teo is from a race of genetically-modified former-humans nicknamed "pods" because they were given prehensile tentacles. (Scenes with Teo using all six of his "appendages" to keep up with orders at his bar were wonderfully entertaining.) Teo's species live on a planet named Celos, and almost never leave. Teo's a rare exception. Wanting to stand out from his enormous family, Teo left and opened a bar he named the Klockwerk Kraken.
Jimenez comes into Teo's bar one night, excited that he'd finally gotten his captain's port installed (Matrix-like components in the back of his neck that let him connect to and pilot spaceships) and is about to buy his very own ship. Teo, attracted to the unusually-shy "spacer" warns him about the condition of the ship he's about to buy. They come to an arrangement in which Teo recommends a reputable seller and Jimenez agrees to become Teo's supplier.
Gradually learning more about each of them was a delightful journey. And the side characters were all lovely as well, Teo's family reminded me a lot of a big Italian family, and the regulars at the bar were great fun.
Surprisingly deep, wonderfully emotional, delightfully well-written. What a great surprise!
Some Favorite Quotes:
"I know that feeling. Sometimes the world you grow up in seems too small for you, like you want to crack through your skin and burst free."
It reminded him of his grandmother's saying that the heart has its own tentacles, and when it finds the lover it desires, it reaches for them.
"No.... I don't need you to hide."
But his feelings were too new for that. They bled at the edges where they'd punched through to his heart.
"But poetry uses small words with big meanings. I like it."
December 18, 2015
Sci-fi really was not my forte, but this book was light enough in a sense there was not much techy mumbo jumbo terms. So it's quite easy for me to grasp the world building and the plot.
The story revolved around Teo Houdin, a friendly pod alien with extra four tentacled-arms and Jimenez, a quiet, skittish, taciturn ex-slave of two-armed man. Teo owned and bar-tended Klockwerk Kraken, a bar at Switchpoint Waystation, the last post before the vast Nothing of space. Jimenez was a spacer about to buy a small craft, and Teo helped him from making bad decision as tyro. And so a reluctant friendship began.
For a novella, this book packed quite a story that not all focused on romance. Of course the big plus for me was the characters, both had contrasting personalities yet likable no less. Skittish as Jimenez was, his relationship with Teo formed after an awkward courtship and a huge amount of patient from Teo side. This made the story real somewhat and refreshing from insta-connections/mates I read so far.
Another plus for me was the way, when Jimenez stumbled into trouble, it didn't turn into overly dramatic situation. Of course nobody got away from it unscathed; but the development served to push both characters closer and spur them into making bigger decision.
A sci-fi story this might be, but the approach was quite earthly and human leaning; even the family values on Teo side (he came from a boisterous family and his continuous interactions with them was really cute). Though when it came to smexy and sweaty moments... those extra appendages did gave added actions to the sexual tango. *grin*
Note:
Copy of this book was kindly provided by the author via DBML program for the exchange of an honest review.
The story revolved around Teo Houdin, a friendly pod alien with extra four tentacled-arms and Jimenez, a quiet, skittish, taciturn ex-slave of two-armed man. Teo owned and bar-tended Klockwerk Kraken, a bar at Switchpoint Waystation, the last post before the vast Nothing of space. Jimenez was a spacer about to buy a small craft, and Teo helped him from making bad decision as tyro. And so a reluctant friendship began.
For a novella, this book packed quite a story that not all focused on romance. Of course the big plus for me was the characters, both had contrasting personalities yet likable no less. Skittish as Jimenez was, his relationship with Teo formed after an awkward courtship and a huge amount of patient from Teo side. This made the story real somewhat and refreshing from insta-connections/mates I read so far.
Another plus for me was the way, when Jimenez stumbled into trouble, it didn't turn into overly dramatic situation. Of course nobody got away from it unscathed; but the development served to push both characters closer and spur them into making bigger decision.
A sci-fi story this might be, but the approach was quite earthly and human leaning; even the family values on Teo side (he came from a boisterous family and his continuous interactions with them was really cute). Though when it came to smexy and sweaty moments... those extra appendages did gave added actions to the sexual tango. *grin*
Note:
Copy of this book was kindly provided by the author via DBML program for the exchange of an honest review.
July 14, 2015
The Klockwerk Kracken has a character driven story-line and is what I like to call soft sci-fi, which means that and even if you aren't a fan of science fiction in general, you should consider giving it a try.
With six arms and a personality that is slightly larger than life, Teo Houdin is outgoing, funny and an all-around likeable guy. Recently he's been noticing that the bar scene isn't as exciting as it used to be. He isn't looking for change per se, but he's been feeling a bit of restlessness lately . Something's coming, he isn't sure what that something will be, but for now he's comfortable where he is and is willing to wait.
Jiminez, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to blend in, and would happily live the rest of his days unnoticed by those around him. Life hasn't been kind to Jiminez, and just when he finally begins to feel as if he may have found a place to start fresh, Teo tumbles into his life, shining the brightness of his soul directly into the shadows of Jiminez's heart.
What do you get when you take a space station, two unknowingly lonely men with opposite personalities, a dash of adventure and a bit of lust? The Klockwerk Kraken, of course! I enjoyed the heck out of Aidee's quirky characters, their heartbreaking pasts and tentative futures. The age old lesson is still true; you really can't judge a book..er..Celosian..by it's cover.
My OFFICIAL REVIEW written for Carly’s Book Reviews
With six arms and a personality that is slightly larger than life, Teo Houdin is outgoing, funny and an all-around likeable guy. Recently he's been noticing that the bar scene isn't as exciting as it used to be. He isn't looking for change per se, but he's been feeling a bit of restlessness lately . Something's coming, he isn't sure what that something will be, but for now he's comfortable where he is and is willing to wait.
Jiminez, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to blend in, and would happily live the rest of his days unnoticed by those around him. Life hasn't been kind to Jiminez, and just when he finally begins to feel as if he may have found a place to start fresh, Teo tumbles into his life, shining the brightness of his soul directly into the shadows of Jiminez's heart.
What do you get when you take a space station, two unknowingly lonely men with opposite personalities, a dash of adventure and a bit of lust? The Klockwerk Kraken, of course! I enjoyed the heck out of Aidee's quirky characters, their heartbreaking pasts and tentative futures. The age old lesson is still true; you really can't judge a book..er..Celosian..by it's cover.
My OFFICIAL REVIEW written for Carly’s Book Reviews
September 19, 2015
Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I've kind of been sitting on this review, simply because it's hard for me to explain how I feel about this book. I think in the end, it was mostly "meh." Not bad, but also not good.
I like the premise: former slave and tentacled dude. This sounded right up my alley, because my alley includes kink and hurt comfort. But this book didn't really deliver on that. The relationship progresses strangely, with the two main characters not seeing each other for months at a time, and yet still somehow falling in deep love and committing to each other after nothing more than one night of sex. It was a bit too "insta-love" for me.
Another issue was the conflict at the end, which was fairly contrived and came out of nowhere besides. While I understand that the author wanted to add drama, I think the entire thing with slavers and freedom fighters and whatnot should have been woven more into the early parts of the story. We also didn't see people really expressing any opinions on slavery until near the end, so it once again felt very out of the blue.
Overall, this felt more like an outline of a decent novel. It could have used a lot more depth. With some fleshing out, I think I would have really enjoyed it.
I've kind of been sitting on this review, simply because it's hard for me to explain how I feel about this book. I think in the end, it was mostly "meh." Not bad, but also not good.
I like the premise: former slave and tentacled dude. This sounded right up my alley, because my alley includes kink and hurt comfort. But this book didn't really deliver on that. The relationship progresses strangely, with the two main characters not seeing each other for months at a time, and yet still somehow falling in deep love and committing to each other after nothing more than one night of sex. It was a bit too "insta-love" for me.
Another issue was the conflict at the end, which was fairly contrived and came out of nowhere besides. While I understand that the author wanted to add drama, I think the entire thing with slavers and freedom fighters and whatnot should have been woven more into the early parts of the story. We also didn't see people really expressing any opinions on slavery until near the end, so it once again felt very out of the blue.
Overall, this felt more like an outline of a decent novel. It could have used a lot more depth. With some fleshing out, I think I would have really enjoyed it.
July 31, 2018
World building was nice. Relationship stalled out.
August 12, 2019
Re-read 10Aug2019 : Just as good the second time around. I need to get on that sequel ASAP. (Probably wouldn't have even thought about it if it weren't for the MMRG Anniversary Challenge; won a few prizes and went to investigate what I'd like to claim & I saw on the Prize Vault spreadsheet that Aidee offered up backlist books for prizes which reminded me I already own both of them.)
Original Rating 08Mar2018: 4.4 Stars
I was ridiculously surprised by how good this was, and how much I liked it. Very unexpected...not that I didn't have hopes for a good read (it is scifi after all) but I thought it was going to be basically just empty PWP with interesting sex.
Well, it was interesting sex - 4 extra appendages will do that - but the actual story was pretty damned good. A former slave, created/designed/manufactured to sexually serve whether he wanted to or not (his tattoo fondled by someone else triggering a sexual state he had no control over? FUCK, that's non-con on a whole other level) being freed from his owner and sent to break those base instincts, that mental conditioning? This amazingly determined human desperate to find himself, trying to overcome biology and programming? Wow, that's a whole level of deep I didn't prepare for.
Not to mention, the pretty blatant metaphor of feeling like you don't belong where you came from? That something makes you different and want to leave to find yourself - only to realize you're no more a part of anything special, everywhere else. (And oddity, a kink, a sexual exploit for so many looking to use you when you just want the chance to connect on a deeper level? GAWD. *ouch*)
I love how these two found each other - and how Jimenez was able to open up and use that quirk of his biology to HIS pleasure, because HE wanted to. Plus, you know, Teo's tentacles...I'm not overly fond of tentacle porn or manga that features it but ZOMG I could see the appeal after this. 4. FOUR. Extra hands. For touching. Stroking. Pleasing. *dies* (This is why I could never, ever read Babylon 5 Londo/G'Kar fanfic because as much as it would be crazy hot with the angry truelove hatesex...Londo was Centauri - so, yeah, tentacles. Extra appendages solely for sexual gratification - and the more inserted the deeper the intimacy. *dies*)
Lots to say on the nature of slavery, and how the space-station was neutral on the subject of freedom and repatriation. The stress of new freedom, the difficulty of overcoming obstacles never considered due to newly discovered self-awareness, the awkward dance of trying to be in a relationship (and whether a slave is capable of consenting, even if they've gone through the re-wiring process because it's not perfect, there's no cure for a function you were specifically created to do)...gah! I love the ethical conundrums and moral discussions!
Plus, all that jazz about family and how you're born to one but make another and if you're lucky you can blend them into just the right situation for you.
Seriously:
Original Rating 08Mar2018: 4.4 Stars
I was ridiculously surprised by how good this was, and how much I liked it. Very unexpected...not that I didn't have hopes for a good read (it is scifi after all) but I thought it was going to be basically just empty PWP with interesting sex.
Well, it was interesting sex - 4 extra appendages will do that - but the actual story was pretty damned good. A former slave, created/designed/manufactured to sexually serve whether he wanted to or not (his tattoo fondled by someone else triggering a sexual state he had no control over? FUCK, that's non-con on a whole other level) being freed from his owner and sent to break those base instincts, that mental conditioning? This amazingly determined human desperate to find himself, trying to overcome biology and programming? Wow, that's a whole level of deep I didn't prepare for.
Not to mention, the pretty blatant metaphor of feeling like you don't belong where you came from? That something makes you different and want to leave to find yourself - only to realize you're no more a part of anything special, everywhere else. (And oddity, a kink, a sexual exploit for so many looking to use you when you just want the chance to connect on a deeper level? GAWD. *ouch*)
I love how these two found each other - and how Jimenez was able to open up and use that quirk of his biology to HIS pleasure, because HE wanted to. Plus, you know, Teo's tentacles...I'm not overly fond of tentacle porn or manga that features it but ZOMG I could see the appeal after this. 4. FOUR. Extra hands. For touching. Stroking. Pleasing. *dies* (This is why I could never, ever read Babylon 5 Londo/G'Kar fanfic because as much as it would be crazy hot with the angry truelove hatesex...Londo was Centauri - so, yeah, tentacles. Extra appendages solely for sexual gratification - and the more inserted the deeper the intimacy. *dies*)
Lots to say on the nature of slavery, and how the space-station was neutral on the subject of freedom and repatriation. The stress of new freedom, the difficulty of overcoming obstacles never considered due to newly discovered self-awareness, the awkward dance of trying to be in a relationship (and whether a slave is capable of consenting, even if they've gone through the re-wiring process because it's not perfect, there's no cure for a function you were specifically created to do)...gah! I love the ethical conundrums and moral discussions!
Plus, all that jazz about family and how you're born to one but make another and if you're lucky you can blend them into just the right situation for you.
Seriously:
October 3, 2018
This story is much more complex than I had been expecting from the blurb, in the best of ways. Teo and Jimenez are both lovely characters, and the development of their relationship is wonderful. I love meeting a new author and falling in love with their work!
September 21, 2015
I received a complimentary copy from the author through the MM Romance Group DBML program in exchange for an honest review
Teo moved from his home planet, Celos, to find a place that fit for him. As the owner of a bar, he has settled into a nice life that he enjoys, except the lack of companionship.
Jimenez is a recently freed slave, and he has plans to own a cargo ship so that he can travel the vast galaxy, enjoying his freedom while earning an income.
After Teo saves Jimenez from a bad ship purchase, Jimenez starts to do courier runs that include stocking the bar with Alcohol. Teo looks forward to seeing Jimenez each time he docks to drop off his order.
This was a really fun story. I enjoyed this different take on tentacles. Teo is just a guy, who happens to have eight limbs. Nothing dubious about it, and he is forward enough to go after Jimenez, even though it appears to him that Jimenez is only interested in sex.
There is an edgy element to the story with the slavery, and the damage that has done to Jimenez, but this is not dark.
I connected with both characters, and wanted them to be together.
I liked the world building. I found it interesting, and was shown enough to get an idea, without being bogged down by technical jargon or complicated descriptions. This is a real sticking point for me in Sci-Fi stories. If I get too caught up trying to figure out the outlay I tend to get bored and distracted.
I would definitely recommend this to those who want a quick, light Sci-Fi story with low angst, and decent sexy time.
I will be looking at this author's other work.
Teo moved from his home planet, Celos, to find a place that fit for him. As the owner of a bar, he has settled into a nice life that he enjoys, except the lack of companionship.
Jimenez is a recently freed slave, and he has plans to own a cargo ship so that he can travel the vast galaxy, enjoying his freedom while earning an income.
After Teo saves Jimenez from a bad ship purchase, Jimenez starts to do courier runs that include stocking the bar with Alcohol. Teo looks forward to seeing Jimenez each time he docks to drop off his order.
This was a really fun story. I enjoyed this different take on tentacles. Teo is just a guy, who happens to have eight limbs. Nothing dubious about it, and he is forward enough to go after Jimenez, even though it appears to him that Jimenez is only interested in sex.
There is an edgy element to the story with the slavery, and the damage that has done to Jimenez, but this is not dark.
I connected with both characters, and wanted them to be together.
I liked the world building. I found it interesting, and was shown enough to get an idea, without being bogged down by technical jargon or complicated descriptions. This is a real sticking point for me in Sci-Fi stories. If I get too caught up trying to figure out the outlay I tend to get bored and distracted.
I would definitely recommend this to those who want a quick, light Sci-Fi story with low angst, and decent sexy time.
I will be looking at this author's other work.
July 13, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
The Klockwerk Kraken is, at its heart, a tale about people. It is science fiction, and there are clear elements of the genre throughout, more so than just taking place on a space station. The world building was a bit lacking for me. I would have liked to know more about how certain things worked. But at the same time, I thought the progression of the story and growth of the characters was good, and so I was more readily able to overlook my issues with the world building to find a really solid tale.
This story was by turns, poignant and heartbreaking and adorably sweet, with just the right amount of sexy heat thrown in. And it was all down to the MCs. Teo is an open minded and caring man. He is who he is, and knows what he believes is right. He has flaws of course, but that only makes him more relatable. Shortly after we first meet him, he’s helping out Jimenez, a stranger, because it’s the right thing to do and that gives us a clear insight to his character. He wasn’t perfect, but he was real, and I enjoyed him immensely. Not to mention that his chemistry with Jimenez was full of heat and life, and sizzled and sparked on the page. And yes guys, of course there is some tentacle sex because let’s face it, how could there not be?
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
The Klockwerk Kraken is, at its heart, a tale about people. It is science fiction, and there are clear elements of the genre throughout, more so than just taking place on a space station. The world building was a bit lacking for me. I would have liked to know more about how certain things worked. But at the same time, I thought the progression of the story and growth of the characters was good, and so I was more readily able to overlook my issues with the world building to find a really solid tale.
This story was by turns, poignant and heartbreaking and adorably sweet, with just the right amount of sexy heat thrown in. And it was all down to the MCs. Teo is an open minded and caring man. He is who he is, and knows what he believes is right. He has flaws of course, but that only makes him more relatable. Shortly after we first meet him, he’s helping out Jimenez, a stranger, because it’s the right thing to do and that gives us a clear insight to his character. He wasn’t perfect, but he was real, and I enjoyed him immensely. Not to mention that his chemistry with Jimenez was full of heat and life, and sizzled and sparked on the page. And yes guys, of course there is some tentacle sex because let’s face it, how could there not be?
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
June 28, 2015
I very rarely read Sci-fi book but this one caught my eye, so what did I think?
It's a very easy to read MM book but it does delve into a difficult subject, Slavery.
Teo is a pod a gm human, he looks as any other human except for his extra tentacles! His a fab character light, fun and wears his heart on his sleeve, I couldn't help but like him. Teo runs a bar and that's were he meets Jimenez.
Jimenez, calls in for a drink it appears his looking for a ship, lucky for him Teo can point him in the right direction. Jimenez is a little more closed off, he has his reasons. Can Teo break through and help him.
I liked how they developed their relationship, the comm system made for fun interactions. The comm system also introduced us to Teo's family, they made me laugh.
Breakdown of thoughts, easy read, page turner, I liked the authors writing style, good characters and lastly an enjoyable storyline.
I'd definetly read another book from thus author.
4 star read
** I was gifted a copy for an honest review **
It's a very easy to read MM book but it does delve into a difficult subject, Slavery.
Teo is a pod a gm human, he looks as any other human except for his extra tentacles! His a fab character light, fun and wears his heart on his sleeve, I couldn't help but like him. Teo runs a bar and that's were he meets Jimenez.
Jimenez, calls in for a drink it appears his looking for a ship, lucky for him Teo can point him in the right direction. Jimenez is a little more closed off, he has his reasons. Can Teo break through and help him.
I liked how they developed their relationship, the comm system made for fun interactions. The comm system also introduced us to Teo's family, they made me laugh.
Breakdown of thoughts, easy read, page turner, I liked the authors writing style, good characters and lastly an enjoyable storyline.
I'd definetly read another book from thus author.
4 star read
** I was gifted a copy for an honest review **
August 28, 2015
Better than expected! Wow, I really enjoyed this book and that was surprising to me as when I realized one of the mc's had tentacles, I almost didn't read it. But this was so much more than I expected. I love a good sci-fi and this was good although more fi than sci. When Jimenez & Teo met in Teo's bar neither was looking for a permanent connection, but some attractions are just that strong. I liked the way Jimenez was determined to overcome his past and the way Teo was determined to support Jimenez during his trials. Another thing I loved was Teo's loud but loving family. This was my first read by this author but not my last.
Review copy provided via Reading Alley in exchange for an honest review.
Review copy provided via Reading Alley in exchange for an honest review.
October 31, 2015
There was a lot of good stuff here, although it could have been longer. Plus, hey, tentacles.
August 20, 2019
So this was a cute sci-fi romance with a couple of sad guys who think love will never find them,. It has low angst, a mild taboo if your against tentacles, and a couple of sweet guys in a warm loving story. short, sweet quick read in an interesting other verse.
July 13, 2015
Original Blog Post: Blog Tour, eARC Review, Excerpt, #Giveaway & More: The Klockwerk Kraken by Aidee Ladnier
Review by: multitaskingmomma
My Rating: 4 of 5 Stars
We have to be honest, seeing the word 'tentacles' makes me run. Usually, it is a mile or times ten, away. I and quite a few have been burned by that word, especially erotica works that involve, yes, tentacles. So why did I not run and instead took to interest The Klockwerk Kraken?
Well, I am a huge mythology geek, nerd, whatever you call it. Clockwork animals like those on The Clash of Titans where Bubba, the owl by Harryhausen, played a huge role and it fueled my imagination. Unfortunately, I was wrong to conclude this. There is nothing mythical about this story, and definitely, Bubba is not here. So what is?
Teo is a pod, a man genetically enhanced to have tentacles similar to an octopus, and owns a bar in a waystation. He needs constant supplies to cater to his clients but can find no one to trust. That is, until a shy man enters his bar.
Jimenez had been a slave but through some twist of fate, he is rescued and rehabilitated to function as a free man. No longer can he be forced to do others' bidding. No longer does he have to wear the slave collar. He is now free and seeking to buy a ship and contracts. Unexpectedly, the pod helps him out and rescues him from sure bankruptcy and eventual death.
The relationship that develops between human and pod is not unexpected, this is a romance novel after all. Fortunately for this reader, there is none of the tentacle horror stories here. Yes, this is kind of erotic but frankly, it is the sweet kind. Yes, the tentacles are put into good use, but there is none of the angst and fright associated with it. Furthermore, this was a truly romantic and light read it was impossible to put down.
That tells a lot right now for the many disappointing reads we've had to endure. Aidee Ladnier not only made me smile and tear up to the situation Jimenez had been in, she also made me dream of the Klockwerk Kraken as described in the book. The beauty of such a piece of work is incredibly visual and that is really what made me sit up straight and finish this in one sitting.
As for the action, anxiety and what nots expected? Yes they are are here, but the writer also made me dream of space ports and broken men who deserved not only a second chance, but a life of love in an alien world.
Review by: multitaskingmomma
My Rating: 4 of 5 Stars
We have to be honest, seeing the word 'tentacles' makes me run. Usually, it is a mile or times ten, away. I and quite a few have been burned by that word, especially erotica works that involve, yes, tentacles. So why did I not run and instead took to interest The Klockwerk Kraken?
Well, I am a huge mythology geek, nerd, whatever you call it. Clockwork animals like those on The Clash of Titans where Bubba, the owl by Harryhausen, played a huge role and it fueled my imagination. Unfortunately, I was wrong to conclude this. There is nothing mythical about this story, and definitely, Bubba is not here. So what is?
Teo is a pod, a man genetically enhanced to have tentacles similar to an octopus, and owns a bar in a waystation. He needs constant supplies to cater to his clients but can find no one to trust. That is, until a shy man enters his bar.
Jimenez had been a slave but through some twist of fate, he is rescued and rehabilitated to function as a free man. No longer can he be forced to do others' bidding. No longer does he have to wear the slave collar. He is now free and seeking to buy a ship and contracts. Unexpectedly, the pod helps him out and rescues him from sure bankruptcy and eventual death.
The relationship that develops between human and pod is not unexpected, this is a romance novel after all. Fortunately for this reader, there is none of the tentacle horror stories here. Yes, this is kind of erotic but frankly, it is the sweet kind. Yes, the tentacles are put into good use, but there is none of the angst and fright associated with it. Furthermore, this was a truly romantic and light read it was impossible to put down.
That tells a lot right now for the many disappointing reads we've had to endure. Aidee Ladnier not only made me smile and tear up to the situation Jimenez had been in, she also made me dream of the Klockwerk Kraken as described in the book. The beauty of such a piece of work is incredibly visual and that is really what made me sit up straight and finish this in one sitting.
As for the action, anxiety and what nots expected? Yes they are are here, but the writer also made me dream of space ports and broken men who deserved not only a second chance, but a life of love in an alien world.
September 26, 2015
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is a finely spun science fiction romance, dealing with many issues such as human genetic and personality modification, without getting overcomplicated, as well as slavery. The story is told between the two main characters, so you can gain an insight into their experiences and understanding of their situations.
Jimenez, a recently rehabilitated and freed pleasure slave, is seeking buy and pilot a cargo carrier and trade to the many remote stations and planets on the edge of the Galaxy. He does not expect to meet the handsome Teo, the tentacled innkeeper of the Klockwerk Kracken, and is unsure of the attraction he feels for Teo and is afraid to even consider a relationship with anyone. Teo in turn is quite the opposite and has left his happy home and planet, as he did not really feel that he belonged and searched the galaxy until he finally settled on this remote outpost. He has had the occasional bed partner along his journey, but never a committed relationship. There is also a fine mix of secondary characters and the charming, if slightly overbearing, family back on Teo's world of Celos who he keeps in regular contact with.
The relationship between Teo and Jimenez develops slowly with quite a few misunderstandings along the way. I found this important, as Jimenez traumatic experiences are not something that can be healed with a quick kiss and you can sense each time he returns that he is thinking and acting less like a slave. Although the scars caused by his slavery, especially the internally ones, might never fully heal and he fears revealing to much of his past will make Teo turn from him. So, as time goes by and as Jimenez travels alone finding comfort in the simplicity and beauty of poetry, he tentatively reaches out to Teo, via the communicator link, and buys him a heartfelt and beautiful gift.
Even though this is a gentle developing romance the story does have angst, especially when he faced with those still enslaved, which could be Jimenez downfall and sabotage his future as a pilot and his relationship with Teo.
Overall an enjoyable read, with an interesting story line, lovable characters and some tender loving scenes. I would be happy to read any more books by this author, especially in this galaxy.
This is a finely spun science fiction romance, dealing with many issues such as human genetic and personality modification, without getting overcomplicated, as well as slavery. The story is told between the two main characters, so you can gain an insight into their experiences and understanding of their situations.
Jimenez, a recently rehabilitated and freed pleasure slave, is seeking buy and pilot a cargo carrier and trade to the many remote stations and planets on the edge of the Galaxy. He does not expect to meet the handsome Teo, the tentacled innkeeper of the Klockwerk Kracken, and is unsure of the attraction he feels for Teo and is afraid to even consider a relationship with anyone. Teo in turn is quite the opposite and has left his happy home and planet, as he did not really feel that he belonged and searched the galaxy until he finally settled on this remote outpost. He has had the occasional bed partner along his journey, but never a committed relationship. There is also a fine mix of secondary characters and the charming, if slightly overbearing, family back on Teo's world of Celos who he keeps in regular contact with.
The relationship between Teo and Jimenez develops slowly with quite a few misunderstandings along the way. I found this important, as Jimenez traumatic experiences are not something that can be healed with a quick kiss and you can sense each time he returns that he is thinking and acting less like a slave. Although the scars caused by his slavery, especially the internally ones, might never fully heal and he fears revealing to much of his past will make Teo turn from him. So, as time goes by and as Jimenez travels alone finding comfort in the simplicity and beauty of poetry, he tentatively reaches out to Teo, via the communicator link, and buys him a heartfelt and beautiful gift.
Even though this is a gentle developing romance the story does have angst, especially when he faced with those still enslaved, which could be Jimenez downfall and sabotage his future as a pilot and his relationship with Teo.
Overall an enjoyable read, with an interesting story line, lovable characters and some tender loving scenes. I would be happy to read any more books by this author, especially in this galaxy.
April 1, 2017
More appendages means more to love
Copy provided via Reading Alley in exchange for an honest review.
Many people see the word tentacles and immediately run away screaming in the other direction, no doubt imagining a book full of sexual depravity loosely covered in a thin plot like material. This is not that book. Teo has tentacles, yes, but there's more to him than meets the eye; he doesn't just want to fill someone else's portholes. (He's done that already and moved on, he told us that himself.) Teo wants someone to look at and want him for Who he is instead of just What he is. On the other side of things we have Jimenez, a former slave who just wants to keep his freedom while sometimes hoping someone would want him for what he is now, instead of scorning him for what he left behind. Both MCs have their sore spots and weaknesses but still try to move forward.
What I loved about this book was how expressive Teo was; the tentacles were just another part of him, waving around and expressing how he was feeling like anyone else would use their hands. He couldn't help but show when he was happy or when he was feeling insecure. Jimenez couldn't express himself in the same way, but I really liked how he made an effort to do so in other ways, even when they made him uncomfortable. The plot in the story was used more as a way to draw his past out into the light for Teo to see, but it worked and brought the two closer together.
What I didn't care for was that, for a sci-fi book, I didn't get to see more places outside of the station and Jimenez's ship; I just thought I should get a broader view of the universe they were a part of. My only other complaint is that I didn't get to see if the treatment worked at the end of the book. It left in a good place but I really wanted to see the two MCs kind of flying off into the sunset as it were. I enjoyed it either way, however.
Copy provided via Reading Alley in exchange for an honest review.
Many people see the word tentacles and immediately run away screaming in the other direction, no doubt imagining a book full of sexual depravity loosely covered in a thin plot like material. This is not that book. Teo has tentacles, yes, but there's more to him than meets the eye; he doesn't just want to fill someone else's portholes. (He's done that already and moved on, he told us that himself.) Teo wants someone to look at and want him for Who he is instead of just What he is. On the other side of things we have Jimenez, a former slave who just wants to keep his freedom while sometimes hoping someone would want him for what he is now, instead of scorning him for what he left behind. Both MCs have their sore spots and weaknesses but still try to move forward.
What I loved about this book was how expressive Teo was; the tentacles were just another part of him, waving around and expressing how he was feeling like anyone else would use their hands. He couldn't help but show when he was happy or when he was feeling insecure. Jimenez couldn't express himself in the same way, but I really liked how he made an effort to do so in other ways, even when they made him uncomfortable. The plot in the story was used more as a way to draw his past out into the light for Teo to see, but it worked and brought the two closer together.
What I didn't care for was that, for a sci-fi book, I didn't get to see more places outside of the station and Jimenez's ship; I just thought I should get a broader view of the universe they were a part of. My only other complaint is that I didn't get to see if the treatment worked at the end of the book. It left in a good place but I really wanted to see the two MCs kind of flying off into the sunset as it were. I enjoyed it either way, however.
July 30, 2015
The title of this one combined with the blurb had me anticipating some sci-fi with some explicit tentacle action, and Ladnier didn’t disappoint. This is a new-to-me author, and I am happily looking forward to more!
More space-station romance, more m/mwt (male/male with tentacles), more spaceships, and more taciturn heroes who always do the right thing even if it’s not the popular thing.
Ladnier’s heroes were well developed, complex, and just lovely to spend time with. Jiminez had a painful past and is aware of his damaged nature. I wanted so badly for him to find his happy ever after.
Teo is a kind of social loner, which on the surface doesn’t make sense, but his character totally does. He has left home to explore the galaxy. This makes him both courageous and unique because the tentacle folks from his neck of the galaxy simply don’t leave home. They are very family oriented. Ladnier shows this with amusing comm calls from home where Teo is trying to serve the patrons at his bar while talking with his whole extended family on a view screen. His family misses him, but they love him and are supportive.
There’s a neat twist in this book where it turns out Teo and Jiminez have more in common than they think when they begin their steamy on-again-off-again affair. Watching Jiminez grow to trust Teo and Teo learn to accept Jiminez warty-past and all, was fun and sweet.
This is a romance. The characters learn about life and love as they heat up Teo’s sheets. There’s plenty of fabulous m/m sex for the erotic romance lover, along with swift pacing and tight writing.
If you like a little tentacle action and want to read a well-written sci-fi romance featuring two dudes, You Need to Read The Klockwerk Kraken by Aidee Ladnier.
This review appears on You Gotta Read Reviews
More space-station romance, more m/mwt (male/male with tentacles), more spaceships, and more taciturn heroes who always do the right thing even if it’s not the popular thing.
Ladnier’s heroes were well developed, complex, and just lovely to spend time with. Jiminez had a painful past and is aware of his damaged nature. I wanted so badly for him to find his happy ever after.
Teo is a kind of social loner, which on the surface doesn’t make sense, but his character totally does. He has left home to explore the galaxy. This makes him both courageous and unique because the tentacle folks from his neck of the galaxy simply don’t leave home. They are very family oriented. Ladnier shows this with amusing comm calls from home where Teo is trying to serve the patrons at his bar while talking with his whole extended family on a view screen. His family misses him, but they love him and are supportive.
There’s a neat twist in this book where it turns out Teo and Jiminez have more in common than they think when they begin their steamy on-again-off-again affair. Watching Jiminez grow to trust Teo and Teo learn to accept Jiminez warty-past and all, was fun and sweet.
This is a romance. The characters learn about life and love as they heat up Teo’s sheets. There’s plenty of fabulous m/m sex for the erotic romance lover, along with swift pacing and tight writing.
If you like a little tentacle action and want to read a well-written sci-fi romance featuring two dudes, You Need to Read The Klockwerk Kraken by Aidee Ladnier.
This review appears on You Gotta Read Reviews
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