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The Slayers #2
Stalked
Who's more dangerous – a stripper, an assassin, or a serial killer?
The Stripper Ripper is stalking the streets of New York City, preying on male strippers, and the press is making mincemeat of a helpless police force.
In desperation, the police refer the serial killer's case to the Slayers, a team of enhanced, undercover super soldiers. The commander of the Slayers puts his team on the streets to watch over the Ripper's favorite targets.
One of these targets is Micah, a twink stripper and a desirable sub. Micah's baby sitter is one of the newest members of the Slayers, Sorren, as cold-blooded an assassin as they come, and the last person you'd expect to harbor feelings for his charge.
True to form, Sorren is as surprised as anyone at his new infatuation, but Micah is hiding something. Will Micah learn to trust his protector, or is he destined to be the next victim on the Stripper Ripper's list?
The Stripper Ripper is stalking the streets of New York City, preying on male strippers, and the press is making mincemeat of a helpless police force.
In desperation, the police refer the serial killer's case to the Slayers, a team of enhanced, undercover super soldiers. The commander of the Slayers puts his team on the streets to watch over the Ripper's favorite targets.
One of these targets is Micah, a twink stripper and a desirable sub. Micah's baby sitter is one of the newest members of the Slayers, Sorren, as cold-blooded an assassin as they come, and the last person you'd expect to harbor feelings for his charge.
True to form, Sorren is as surprised as anyone at his new infatuation, but Micah is hiding something. Will Micah learn to trust his protector, or is he destined to be the next victim on the Stripper Ripper's list?
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2015
5 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
H.C. Brown
108 books88 followersH.C Brown is a multi published, best selling, award winning, author of Historical, Paranormal, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, BDSM, Time Travel, Action Adventure, and Contemporary Romance.
In 2011 she was delighted to received nomination in three categories in the 2011 CAPA Awards.
H.C writes about strong alpha males in complex settings and all her stories have happy endings.
She married her childhood sweetheart and lives close to the beach in Queensland, Australia. Her interests include art, music, and reading romance.
In 2011 she was delighted to received nomination in three categories in the 2011 CAPA Awards.
H.C writes about strong alpha males in complex settings and all her stories have happy endings.
She married her childhood sweetheart and lives close to the beach in Queensland, Australia. Her interests include art, music, and reading romance.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 3, 2016
1.5 HEARTS--Come join me in WTF land, won't you? There are pancakes.
We'll need the sustenance.
New to me author, H.C. Brown's "Stalked" is the second book in The Slayers series. It is about nano enhanced super soldiers or ex-soldiers who are extremely rich, like mega billionaires (they like throwing that around while stating it's not a big deal) who investigate murders under the FBI's nose (for why?) and run an ultra exclusive BDSM club.
The setting is supposed to be New York City where the city that never sleeps actually sleeps: "the road is empty and I'd say the entire population is asleep". And has a murderer on the loose, the Stripper Ripper. The Stripper Ripper is targeting dark haired gay twinks. Micah who is 5'2" , a stripper and submissive is hiding a past and secrets (that is never explained in the book). His real name is Jeremiah Sterling but he goes by the stage name Snake. He's the next target of the murder but is truly doing the space cadet league of the TSTL Academy proud because he continues to bumble his way into the killer's path over and over again.
Oh...while making time to strip and be submissive. For whom? The Slayers, of course! The Slayers are cyborgs? *scratches head* Some of them are and all of their blood is. Who cares?! They play pretend at BDSM and have lots of cash like at a time $5000!! They have billions in the bank! Whoop whoop, hooray for superficiality!
Soren is the big bad 'Dom' Slayer who doesn't care because he's programmed that way. But he likes the "butterfly" aka Micah. While searching for the killer (LOL to the search and the killer), Soren forces Micah to have sex under the guise of using their nano pheromone the first time since Micah was iffy with his consent. He basically told Micah to shut up and take it. It was supposed to be sexy? So I'll warn if the book doesn't, dubious consent. The rest of the times the sex happened, it wasn't SSC [safe, sane, consensual] or BDSM but in WTF land I think it's considered BDSM...so...
The BDSM...I am tagging it as such because the book is tagged as such. Please don't think this is. This is some made BDSM that is just abuse. You have a nano enhanced 6'7" asshole who admits he wants to torture his "pup" and flay his skin off since the nanos will heal him. He think it's "pain pleasure"/ "edge play" or whatever bullshit he wants to package it as but it is abuse. That is not BDSM.
There is nothing more that I loathe than Doms written like Soren. This book went from a possible 2.5-3 Hearts to a straight D- aka 1.5 Hearts with that bullshit. Ordering someone around and declaring yourself a Dom while wearing black leather and having a "dungeon" doesn't make you a Dom.
With that asinine logic I should go to my bank and declare myself a frigging millionaire!
The book barely knew the basics of BDSM. Anytime it sort of got something right, there goes Soren or the Slayers or whatever other hokey thing barging in to muck it up.
The book started like a bad B movie, it was laughable, but sort of fun. However, once the crap BDSM started, and the way Soren treated Micah happened, it wasn't fun anymore. I can only stretch my reality suspension rubber band so far. It broke somewhere in the middle. The author didn't seem to care about characterizations or plots or setting as much as the story continued.
Suggestions:
* Have an American read future stories in this series over if there will be more since it read like pseudo Brit/Aussie mish-mash. This is supposed to be set in America and it doesn't read like it.
* Know the setting - just because New York City points of interests can be Googled doesn't mean it will read authentic. It doesn't. Was this an alternative universe? A different planet with a fake Manhattan? If it was, it should have been clearer.
* Having all of your characters use the same colloquialisms and share the same thought processes melds all of your characters together. Though this story is a deep as a pocket of air, it made the story useless by the end. Um...Sorren style. (What was up with the lame and awkward dialogue and catchphrases by the way?)
* A person who is 6' 7" can not just stand straight and have sex with another person who is 5' 2" without some body mechanics issues. Think...of the logistics. The taller one's cock will automatically land in the shorter one's ass when in the book he complained about the shorter one barely reaching his shoulders? Unless the shorter twink has freakishly long toes, about 12 inches or so. Excuse me.
* Since when did stripper = sub? A stripper can be a sub but it doesn't mean that all strippers are submissives. So why would a random person call a gay strip club to order a personal night with a submissive? Is there a menu that I missed? The strip club (Pinkies) where the twink originally worked did not state at any time that it was also BDSM club. In the land of WTF, this is all okay and $5000 seems to be the golden ticket to anything. (Please refer to the awesome gif above.)
The suspense part was ridiculous. The murder? why? The entire thing was stretched out. He could have struck so many months earlier. The couple is ridiculous. The premise was interesting, maybe written differently...it could've been something? I didn't read the previous book. I was lost about the backgrounds of the Slayers but I think I'd still be lost if I did read the first book. There were questions unanswered, items not developed. I'm not interested in reading any more of this series. My eyes can't roll any more for today.
Why not the just give it a 1? Hm...it wasn't so bad in the beginning. cheesy as hell, weak characters and surprisingly not all about sex but once the sex started, it went to shit. And the cover isn't bad. *shrugs*
Now it's time for me to leave WTF land. I'd love to eat pancakes all day but I can't. Bye!
Not recommended for anyone I know. I highly doubt I'll be reading this author again.
A copy provided for an honest review.
We'll need the sustenance.
New to me author, H.C. Brown's "Stalked" is the second book in The Slayers series. It is about nano enhanced super soldiers or ex-soldiers who are extremely rich, like mega billionaires (they like throwing that around while stating it's not a big deal) who investigate murders under the FBI's nose (for why?) and run an ultra exclusive BDSM club.
The setting is supposed to be New York City where the city that never sleeps actually sleeps: "the road is empty and I'd say the entire population is asleep". And has a murderer on the loose, the Stripper Ripper. The Stripper Ripper is targeting dark haired gay twinks. Micah who is 5'2" , a stripper and submissive is hiding a past and secrets (that is never explained in the book). His real name is Jeremiah Sterling but he goes by the stage name Snake. He's the next target of the murder but is truly doing the space cadet league of the TSTL Academy proud because he continues to bumble his way into the killer's path over and over again.
Oh...while making time to strip and be submissive. For whom? The Slayers, of course! The Slayers are cyborgs? *scratches head* Some of them are and all of their blood is. Who cares?! They play pretend at BDSM and have lots of cash like at a time $5000!! They have billions in the bank! Whoop whoop, hooray for superficiality!
Soren is the big bad 'Dom' Slayer who doesn't care because he's programmed that way. But he likes the "butterfly" aka Micah. While searching for the killer (LOL to the search and the killer), Soren forces Micah to have sex under the guise of using their nano pheromone the first time since Micah was iffy with his consent. He basically told Micah to shut up and take it. It was supposed to be sexy? So I'll warn if the book doesn't, dubious consent. The rest of the times the sex happened, it wasn't SSC [safe, sane, consensual] or BDSM but in WTF land I think it's considered BDSM...so...
The BDSM...I am tagging it as such because the book is tagged as such. Please don't think this is. This is some made BDSM that is just abuse. You have a nano enhanced 6'7" asshole who admits he wants to torture his "pup" and flay his skin off since the nanos will heal him. He think it's "pain pleasure"/ "edge play" or whatever bullshit he wants to package it as but it is abuse. That is not BDSM.
"Can we discuss boundaries? A contract perhaps?"
Soren wanted to shake him. Boundaries, holy fuck, would this little shit ever trust? "No! I refuse to discuss limitations, or contracts. I am a Dom and in my dungeon, we go by my rules. I will push you to the edge and you will trust me to give you pleasure."
There is nothing more that I loathe than Doms written like Soren. This book went from a possible 2.5-3 Hearts to a straight D- aka 1.5 Hearts with that bullshit. Ordering someone around and declaring yourself a Dom while wearing black leather and having a "dungeon" doesn't make you a Dom.
With that asinine logic I should go to my bank and declare myself a frigging millionaire!
The book barely knew the basics of BDSM. Anytime it sort of got something right, there goes Soren or the Slayers or whatever other hokey thing barging in to muck it up.
The book started like a bad B movie, it was laughable, but sort of fun. However, once the crap BDSM started, and the way Soren treated Micah happened, it wasn't fun anymore. I can only stretch my reality suspension rubber band so far. It broke somewhere in the middle. The author didn't seem to care about characterizations or plots or setting as much as the story continued.
Suggestions:
* Have an American read future stories in this series over if there will be more since it read like pseudo Brit/Aussie mish-mash. This is supposed to be set in America and it doesn't read like it.
* Know the setting - just because New York City points of interests can be Googled doesn't mean it will read authentic. It doesn't. Was this an alternative universe? A different planet with a fake Manhattan? If it was, it should have been clearer.
* Having all of your characters use the same colloquialisms and share the same thought processes melds all of your characters together. Though this story is a deep as a pocket of air, it made the story useless by the end. Um...Sorren style. (What was up with the lame and awkward dialogue and catchphrases by the way?)
* A person who is 6' 7" can not just stand straight and have sex with another person who is 5' 2" without some body mechanics issues. Think...of the logistics. The taller one's cock will automatically land in the shorter one's ass when in the book he complained about the shorter one barely reaching his shoulders? Unless the shorter twink has freakishly long toes, about 12 inches or so. Excuse me.
* Since when did stripper = sub? A stripper can be a sub but it doesn't mean that all strippers are submissives. So why would a random person call a gay strip club to order a personal night with a submissive? Is there a menu that I missed? The strip club (Pinkies) where the twink originally worked did not state at any time that it was also BDSM club. In the land of WTF, this is all okay and $5000 seems to be the golden ticket to anything. (Please refer to the awesome gif above.)
The suspense part was ridiculous. The murder? why? The entire thing was stretched out. He could have struck so many months earlier. The couple is ridiculous. The premise was interesting, maybe written differently...it could've been something? I didn't read the previous book. I was lost about the backgrounds of the Slayers but I think I'd still be lost if I did read the first book. There were questions unanswered, items not developed. I'm not interested in reading any more of this series. My eyes can't roll any more for today.
Why not the just give it a 1? Hm...it wasn't so bad in the beginning. cheesy as hell, weak characters and surprisingly not all about sex but once the sex started, it went to shit. And the cover isn't bad. *shrugs*
Now it's time for me to leave WTF land. I'd love to eat pancakes all day but I can't. Bye!
Not recommended for anyone I know. I highly doubt I'll be reading this author again.
A copy provided for an honest review.
September 26, 2015
~ ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for honest review ~
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
20 pages into this book and my thoughts were: What have I gotten myself into? O.O I haven't read the 1st book in the series, but my biggest worry was the mention of the BDSM Dom/sub romance, because those type of romances were usually hit/miss in my reading history. It turned out I shouldn't have worried about that at all, because this was your typical, lighter Bdsm relationship with a little spanking and nipple clamps and I've read much heavier stuff and enjoyed it.
The things that were actually a turn off for me were:
~ The Portrayal of the Characters
No offense, but the characters seemed pretty one-dimensional to me, with no true depth and pretty poor vocabulary volume.
~ The Insta Relationship
I have no problem with insta relationship/ insta love in paranormal books, but when Sorren said that he liked Micah as a person after they had exchanged 5 sentences maximum it was just too much for me. I wasn't feeling their chemistry and their story left me feeling pretty indifferent.
~ The Plot
The best part of the story for me was the crime/mystery, but overall I think the author could have developed it much better, because in the end, the best twists seemed pretty anticlimatic.
All in all, this wasn't the right type read for me, because it didn't satisfy my reading preferences. Read it and decide for yourself!
December 4, 2015
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. This is book two in the series and I haven't read book one but I liked the blurb and the description of this book on NetGalley and decided to request it.
Sorren is a slayer, part of a group of soldiers who were a government experiment and enhanced by technology. Although Sorren's body has been enhanced by technology he has little emotion and doesn't believe in relationships. He is also a Dom, participating in Club Slayer which is where the Slayers gather for entertainment and sex.
Micah is a sub and a stripper at a local club. He is heartbroken because his boyfriend died in mysterious circumstances. A serial killer is on the loose, killing strippers and he has Micah in his sights. Sorren as part of his work for the Slayers has been appointed to watch over Micah because Micah fits the profile of the people who have been murdered. Micah doesn't know he is being watched but he feels something and he thinks he has a stalker.
Micah finds that his life changes when the killer catches up with him but the Slayers step in and save him from certain death. His own life changes and as he discovers the world of the slayers, he discovers a deep, inexplicable attraction to Sorren, But the killer is still on the loose and hunting for Micah, and Sorren knows that he cannot have the relationship he wants with Micah until the killer is caught.
I enjoyed reading this. It wasn't particularly ground breaking or different to other mm books, but I really liked the characters. I enjoyed reading the dialogue between Sorren and Micah, and seeing how Micah comes to terms with the changes in his life. It was just a really nice story with plenty of action but low on the angst. I enjoyed it.
Copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for a review.
Sorren is a slayer, part of a group of soldiers who were a government experiment and enhanced by technology. Although Sorren's body has been enhanced by technology he has little emotion and doesn't believe in relationships. He is also a Dom, participating in Club Slayer which is where the Slayers gather for entertainment and sex.
Micah is a sub and a stripper at a local club. He is heartbroken because his boyfriend died in mysterious circumstances. A serial killer is on the loose, killing strippers and he has Micah in his sights. Sorren as part of his work for the Slayers has been appointed to watch over Micah because Micah fits the profile of the people who have been murdered. Micah doesn't know he is being watched but he feels something and he thinks he has a stalker.
Micah finds that his life changes when the killer catches up with him but the Slayers step in and save him from certain death. His own life changes and as he discovers the world of the slayers, he discovers a deep, inexplicable attraction to Sorren, But the killer is still on the loose and hunting for Micah, and Sorren knows that he cannot have the relationship he wants with Micah until the killer is caught.
I enjoyed reading this. It wasn't particularly ground breaking or different to other mm books, but I really liked the characters. I enjoyed reading the dialogue between Sorren and Micah, and seeing how Micah comes to terms with the changes in his life. It was just a really nice story with plenty of action but low on the angst. I enjoyed it.
Copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for a review.
September 22, 2015
"...your nanos make you distant and a little unstable at times but you’re my crazy son of a bitch and I know you’ll never hurt me . . . unless I want you to, Master.”...
You know? I enjoyed this book I found it entirely unbelievable and full of dark humour and sexy times between exotic dancer and stripper Snake aka Micah and his nano enhanced ex soldier Dom, Sorren.
If you were trying to take the story in any way seriously, I imagine you would struggle instead, it is like a superhero tale for adults set in a strip club and upmarket BDSM club.
This time the superheroes are an elite group of nano enhanced undercover super soldiers trying to prevent a serial killer who is targeting male strippers, and Micah is next on his list. As long as you are happy to go with the flow, and accept that nano technology makes these guys invincible and able to communicate by mindspeak all is good.
I like books with a BDSM edge, I am not particularly invested in how accurate the depiction is, but even my eyebrows were raised when Micah reflected that narrowly escaping an encounter with the Stripper Ripper had been like subspace:
'The murder had sent him into subspace, his mind had reacted in the exact way it did during a scene in the dungeon. The crazy rush of adrenaline then the drop into mindless oblivion had been the same...'
The story moves along at a good pace. Sorren believes himself to be a sadistic Dom without emotion, but finds himself drawn to Micah, an endearing brat of a sub (with an equally bratty Siamese cat aptly named princess). This is an edgy romance, and despite the dark themes a light and fun read not to be taken seriously.
The second book in the series, it works just fine as a standalone novel, however I will be sure to check out the first book Unlocked since I enjoyed the sexy characters and utter nonsense of Stalked.
* I was provided with a complimentary copy by the publisher in exchange for an honest review *
September 11, 2015
Rating: DNF at 40%
I want to say first that I really wanted to enjoy this novel. The premise sounded interesting, and I love novels with BDSM elements.
I was unable to finish this book for a number of reasons. Initially, I struggled to enjoy the book because of the writing itself. The plot is confusing, the characters inconsistent, there are too many things that are conveniently explained away by use of "nanos", and the language itself was ridiculous.
But I've managed to read novels like this before, so I pressed on. And the story got worse, and worse.
I am actually involved in the BDSM community. I have been, on and off, for about seven years now. So when I say that this novel was poorly written, poorly researched, and often outright offensive to me, I want you to understand that I'm not just getting my knowledge and opinions from other books.
Read the full review on Just Love .
I want to say first that I really wanted to enjoy this novel. The premise sounded interesting, and I love novels with BDSM elements.
I was unable to finish this book for a number of reasons. Initially, I struggled to enjoy the book because of the writing itself. The plot is confusing, the characters inconsistent, there are too many things that are conveniently explained away by use of "nanos", and the language itself was ridiculous.
"I'm a Dom and I understand you're a sub, so with this in mind, do you have any objections if I wash you?" (Kindle Loc. 613)
But I've managed to read novels like this before, so I pressed on. And the story got worse, and worse.
I am actually involved in the BDSM community. I have been, on and off, for about seven years now. So when I say that this novel was poorly written, poorly researched, and often outright offensive to me, I want you to understand that I'm not just getting my knowledge and opinions from other books.
Read the full review on Just Love .
September 11, 2015
~ ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for honest review ~
I must say it is the first time i read m/m super soldier bdsm type of erotica and it wasn't bad at all i liked the hot hot hot scenes between Sorren and Micah and the evolution of their relationship but i would prefer if it had more intensity and mystery with the Stripper Ripper. Also for a bdsm book it didn't had many scenes about this subject. Nonetheless it is a good choice for someone who loves m/m and super soldiers (science fiction theme).
I must say it is the first time i read m/m super soldier bdsm type of erotica and it wasn't bad at all i liked the hot hot hot scenes between Sorren and Micah and the evolution of their relationship but i would prefer if it had more intensity and mystery with the Stripper Ripper. Also for a bdsm book it didn't had many scenes about this subject. Nonetheless it is a good choice for someone who loves m/m and super soldiers (science fiction theme).
October 20, 2015
When I came here, to Goodreads, to write this review is when I discovered that this is a second in a series. I wouldn't have picked it up if I had known that. I like to read series in order. But I don't think having read the first book would have made me like it any more. But I am always baffled why publishers don't put that information on book covers. It's freakin' important!
Anyhow, this book was a fail for me. My overall impression was of overpowering almost unbearable cheesiness. Everything about The Slayers was too perfect. Sorren flashed cash constantly, bought Micah new clothes, pampered his cat, had an easy solution for everything, etc. As an example, at one point Micah demands $1,000 a night as a fee in order to accept a job. This is apparently the going rate for a skilled dancer. (I don't know.) The counter offer was an apartment in the five star building, food, living expenses (hair cuts, clothes, massages, sex are listed as examples), and $5,000 a show. Um....too good to be true and painfully unbelievable. But pretty par for the course of a book trying too hard to be like a fairy tale.
But my main complaint was with the characters. There was no depth at all, no history, no development. And as much as I like the occasional growly alpha a-hole, Sorren was just a dick. Here's a quote: "No! I refuse to discuss limitations, or contracts. I am a Dom and in my dungeon, we go by my rules. I will push you to the edge and you will trust me to give you pleasure." That pretty much sums the book up. That's the level of trust and communication presented as the norm. Keep in mind that these men have known each-other less than a day and this is his response to Micah's request for boundaries.
There's an earlier scene, in which they had known each-other less than an hour and Micah asks Sorren if he's into edge play, 'cause for Sorren Micah claimed to be willing to learn it. Micah had never done more than be spanked and they were no discussing kink, but hey let's throw this random one out as an invitation. No matter that less than an hour earlier he'd watched his best friend get his throat slit and been stabbed himself. Of course knife play is gonna be exactly what the reader expects him to be fantasizing about. WTF? What the actual f*ck?
Basically, I found the plot anemic, the use of "I'm a Dom" to excuse and explain almost everything in life irritating and artificially highlighted, the cheesy 'Dom-speak' like sandpaper, the villain cliche beyond words, the events predictable, Micah was TSTL, there are a number of inconsistencies/contradictions, and the whole thing (almost every aspect of it) rushed and underdeveloped. The actual writing itself was fine. The book is easy enough to read, but not much of what was written actually appealed to me personally.
Anyhow, this book was a fail for me. My overall impression was of overpowering almost unbearable cheesiness. Everything about The Slayers was too perfect. Sorren flashed cash constantly, bought Micah new clothes, pampered his cat, had an easy solution for everything, etc. As an example, at one point Micah demands $1,000 a night as a fee in order to accept a job. This is apparently the going rate for a skilled dancer. (I don't know.) The counter offer was an apartment in the five star building, food, living expenses (hair cuts, clothes, massages, sex are listed as examples), and $5,000 a show. Um....too good to be true and painfully unbelievable. But pretty par for the course of a book trying too hard to be like a fairy tale.
But my main complaint was with the characters. There was no depth at all, no history, no development. And as much as I like the occasional growly alpha a-hole, Sorren was just a dick. Here's a quote: "No! I refuse to discuss limitations, or contracts. I am a Dom and in my dungeon, we go by my rules. I will push you to the edge and you will trust me to give you pleasure." That pretty much sums the book up. That's the level of trust and communication presented as the norm. Keep in mind that these men have known each-other less than a day and this is his response to Micah's request for boundaries.
There's an earlier scene, in which they had known each-other less than an hour and Micah asks Sorren if he's into edge play, 'cause for Sorren Micah claimed to be willing to learn it. Micah had never done more than be spanked and they were no discussing kink, but hey let's throw this random one out as an invitation. No matter that less than an hour earlier he'd watched his best friend get his throat slit and been stabbed himself. Of course knife play is gonna be exactly what the reader expects him to be fantasizing about. WTF? What the actual f*ck?
Basically, I found the plot anemic, the use of "I'm a Dom" to excuse and explain almost everything in life irritating and artificially highlighted, the cheesy 'Dom-speak' like sandpaper, the villain cliche beyond words, the events predictable, Micah was TSTL, there are a number of inconsistencies/contradictions, and the whole thing (almost every aspect of it) rushed and underdeveloped. The actual writing itself was fine. The book is easy enough to read, but not much of what was written actually appealed to me personally.
September 3, 2015
All the key ingredients are here for this to be a big win for me. H.C. Brown has created the Slayers series with big uber sexy alpha super soldiers. The romance (sex scenes) is super sexy and burning up the pages hot. The suspense element was obvious and a bit mild even though the whole purpose of the book is for Sorren to protect Micah from the Stripper Ripper.
The Stripper Ripper is carving up twink dancers all over the city. Delano and his fellow Slayers are following a few that match the characteristics of the murder victims. Sorren (newest member and definite loose cannon) has been tasked to keep up with Micah. Spending an abundance of time with your protector opens the door for the romance. That’s not how it plays out. The super soldiers enhancements allows for pheromones, perfect matches, and instalove (bonding) so there was no need to build a relationship for Micah and Sorren. THey have plenty of hot sex and the Dom tells the pup how things will be from here on out.
Most of the pertinent information is given to the readers through conversations between the characters via information dump. The Slayers are talkers. They discuss everything in detail, lots and lots of detail. Some of the things they spoke of needed more elaboration or they shouldn’t have been mentioned at all. The two that I was the most curious of was the amount of time Sorren spent away from Micah for the upgrades with the doctor. Keeping Micah’s babysitter away from him allowed for Micah to get into quite a bit of trouble but it didn’t make sense for this world or the super soldiers. Micah’s horrific past is also mentioned several times. The fact that he is hiding something and running from something, but that is a question that is never answered.
Stalked can easily be read as a stand-alone. The one of the main characters from the previous book has a larger than small role as a secondary character here. The brothel/sex slave plot was mentioned but doesn’t tie into the mess that Micah has found himself the center of. A couple for the next book has not been lined up nor was it even hinted at if there would be another book.
The Stripper Ripper is carving up twink dancers all over the city. Delano and his fellow Slayers are following a few that match the characteristics of the murder victims. Sorren (newest member and definite loose cannon) has been tasked to keep up with Micah. Spending an abundance of time with your protector opens the door for the romance. That’s not how it plays out. The super soldiers enhancements allows for pheromones, perfect matches, and instalove (bonding) so there was no need to build a relationship for Micah and Sorren. THey have plenty of hot sex and the Dom tells the pup how things will be from here on out.
Most of the pertinent information is given to the readers through conversations between the characters via information dump. The Slayers are talkers. They discuss everything in detail, lots and lots of detail. Some of the things they spoke of needed more elaboration or they shouldn’t have been mentioned at all. The two that I was the most curious of was the amount of time Sorren spent away from Micah for the upgrades with the doctor. Keeping Micah’s babysitter away from him allowed for Micah to get into quite a bit of trouble but it didn’t make sense for this world or the super soldiers. Micah’s horrific past is also mentioned several times. The fact that he is hiding something and running from something, but that is a question that is never answered.
Stalked can easily be read as a stand-alone. The one of the main characters from the previous book has a larger than small role as a secondary character here. The brothel/sex slave plot was mentioned but doesn’t tie into the mess that Micah has found himself the center of. A couple for the next book has not been lined up nor was it even hinted at if there would be another book.
September 25, 2015
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I must confess that I usually don’t read mystery books, but I was hooked by this blurb from the first time I saw it, then I jumped on board when Bec asked if I wanted to review it.
Only when I started it, did I realize it was the second one from a series, so, as we’re talking about Enhanced soldiers, genetic experiments and secret government projects, I decided to read Unlocked first (1st one of the series) so I could have the whole experience of it… And I loved that I did it, because it was a great read too.
This book is not your usual romance… This is an erotica book, full of steamy sex, BDSM scenes, sexy stripper’s performances and lots of mystery… And what a great and perfect combination!
There’s a stripper assassin on the loose and the police are not even close to finding out who’s terrorizing the stripper’s community. There comes the Slayers – a secret team of enhanced, undercover soldiers… They decide to place soldiers to protect a few strippers (the ones that meet the profile of the last victims). One of the strippers being protected is Micah.
Micah is a stripper, a sub, and he’s holding secrets of his own. So, when he realizes that there is someone actually stalking him, he’s terrified of being the next victim of the ripper. His protector is Sorren, a cold blooded, unfeeling assassin, that is surprised to find himself attracted to his charge… Ohhh, but Sorren is so much more than meets the eye.
As the ripper strikes, everything changes and all the bets are off. Sorren finds out that without realizing it, he fell for Micah and there is nothing he won’t do to keep Micah safe… But for it to happen, Micah must learn to trust Sorren and confess to him, his most hurtful secrets.
This is a fast paced, thrilling book and so worth reading!!!
I must confess that I usually don’t read mystery books, but I was hooked by this blurb from the first time I saw it, then I jumped on board when Bec asked if I wanted to review it.
Only when I started it, did I realize it was the second one from a series, so, as we’re talking about Enhanced soldiers, genetic experiments and secret government projects, I decided to read Unlocked first (1st one of the series) so I could have the whole experience of it… And I loved that I did it, because it was a great read too.
This book is not your usual romance… This is an erotica book, full of steamy sex, BDSM scenes, sexy stripper’s performances and lots of mystery… And what a great and perfect combination!
There’s a stripper assassin on the loose and the police are not even close to finding out who’s terrorizing the stripper’s community. There comes the Slayers – a secret team of enhanced, undercover soldiers… They decide to place soldiers to protect a few strippers (the ones that meet the profile of the last victims). One of the strippers being protected is Micah.
Micah is a stripper, a sub, and he’s holding secrets of his own. So, when he realizes that there is someone actually stalking him, he’s terrified of being the next victim of the ripper. His protector is Sorren, a cold blooded, unfeeling assassin, that is surprised to find himself attracted to his charge… Ohhh, but Sorren is so much more than meets the eye.
As the ripper strikes, everything changes and all the bets are off. Sorren finds out that without realizing it, he fell for Micah and there is nothing he won’t do to keep Micah safe… But for it to happen, Micah must learn to trust Sorren and confess to him, his most hurtful secrets.
This is a fast paced, thrilling book and so worth reading!!!
September 24, 2015
My Review:
This is another one of those books...it had such great promise. I was really excited when I got it for review because the blurb sounded amazing. It just didn't quite live up to the possibilities.
So...male stripper, serial killer, nano-enhanced super soldiers...it sounds incredible, right? I'll admit it had it's moments and I never once debated dnf'ing it so it definitely wasn't all bad.
What I liked:
*I really liked the Stalkers and the whole back story behind them and how they ended up like this.
*I liked the idea of nano fever, although it never really played out on the page...we only got hints about how it worked. I wanted to see that smexiness.
*I also liked the stripper and BDSM angles. The scenes with Micah dancing were fabulous.
What I didn't like:
*the condescension from the Stalkers toward Micah, especially toward the end of the book. It felt like everyone just gave him a nice little pat on the head and then tried to shove him aside "to keep him safe."
*supposedly Sorren is a ultra-edge-play Dom. Um, I didn't see anything even close to that...a lot of talk there.
*there was no suspense with the bad guy...I love it when I'm kept guessing about who it is...and that was never the case in this book.
*there was a lot of build up of events that then fell flat on their follow-through and some of the dialogue between Sorren and Micah was flat-out cheesy.
So, a good idea that didn't follow through as well as I'd hoped. I never hated the book, but it definitely won't be one that I'll read again. I'm thinking this is an author that I just need to let others enjoy...and I'm okay with that.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This is another one of those books...it had such great promise. I was really excited when I got it for review because the blurb sounded amazing. It just didn't quite live up to the possibilities.
So...male stripper, serial killer, nano-enhanced super soldiers...it sounds incredible, right? I'll admit it had it's moments and I never once debated dnf'ing it so it definitely wasn't all bad.
What I liked:
*I really liked the Stalkers and the whole back story behind them and how they ended up like this.
*I liked the idea of nano fever, although it never really played out on the page...we only got hints about how it worked. I wanted to see that smexiness.
*I also liked the stripper and BDSM angles. The scenes with Micah dancing were fabulous.
What I didn't like:
*the condescension from the Stalkers toward Micah, especially toward the end of the book. It felt like everyone just gave him a nice little pat on the head and then tried to shove him aside "to keep him safe."
*supposedly Sorren is a ultra-edge-play Dom. Um, I didn't see anything even close to that...a lot of talk there.
*there was no suspense with the bad guy...I love it when I'm kept guessing about who it is...and that was never the case in this book.
*there was a lot of build up of events that then fell flat on their follow-through and some of the dialogue between Sorren and Micah was flat-out cheesy.
So, a good idea that didn't follow through as well as I'd hoped. I never hated the book, but it definitely won't be one that I'll read again. I'm thinking this is an author that I just need to let others enjoy...and I'm okay with that.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Read
September 19, 2015I've read the description above on NetGalley and it sounded interesting as I've got a thing for stories about serial killers. After a few pages I was truly confused, so many characters who didn't get introduced, alphas, bounds and nanos were mentioned and used for explanations. I checked goodreads and learned that Stalked is the second installment of a series. Okay then. So the confusion I've felt hasn't influenced the following review.
I struggled to read as far as I did before I filed this book under dnf. The writing style wasn't enjoyable to me all, instead it was rather exhausting to read. On top of that I didn't feel the characters. I haven't got the feeling like I really got to know them and what I did learn about them, was rather cliched. You know the 'I never feel anything for anyone, don't even care about them but then there is you and boom! Feelings' -trope? Both main characters suffer from this. It's bad for me if there is one (mostly because it's so often badly done and used if there is no chemistry between the characters), but both of them? Ugh.
But I could have suffered through this, if that had been all. The 'bdsm' part of this novel was what gave me the rest. Micah watches how his friend get murdered by the ripper, is saved in the last second before he gets murdered too... and that makes him go into subspace?! Excuse me? I had to put it down after that. I'm afraid how the actual sex scenes are going to be, with Sorren 'I'm a dom and you're a sub, so are there objections that I wash you' and Micah 'I saw a murder and am now in subspace while having panik attacks'.
I was provided by NetGalley with a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
I struggled to read as far as I did before I filed this book under dnf. The writing style wasn't enjoyable to me all, instead it was rather exhausting to read. On top of that I didn't feel the characters. I haven't got the feeling like I really got to know them and what I did learn about them, was rather cliched. You know the 'I never feel anything for anyone, don't even care about them but then there is you and boom! Feelings' -trope? Both main characters suffer from this. It's bad for me if there is one (mostly because it's so often badly done and used if there is no chemistry between the characters), but both of them? Ugh.
But I could have suffered through this, if that had been all. The 'bdsm' part of this novel was what gave me the rest. Micah watches how his friend get murdered by the ripper, is saved in the last second before he gets murdered too... and that makes him go into subspace?! Excuse me? I had to put it down after that. I'm afraid how the actual sex scenes are going to be, with Sorren 'I'm a dom and you're a sub, so are there objections that I wash you' and Micah 'I saw a murder and am now in subspace while having panik attacks'.
I was provided by NetGalley with a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
September 21, 2015
“Do you think because I strip for a living, I should just deal with attempted rape, because I tell you that’s what most have on their minds.”
Incidentally, whilst I was reading this book, on a Friday afternoon I found myself watching LMN’s movies, which was on the subject on stalking. By the end of the movie, I was wreck right behind the main character. It was thrilling and horrible, and tight-grip-can’t-stop-watching kind of movie. So, with that thrilling and on the edge of my seat feeling I delved right back into this book but I didn’t get the same feeling. There was no suspense and out of your mind, life slowly slipping out of your hands feeling. I wasn’t disappointed, but I did feel a bit on the air, like I needed more. A bit anti-climatic, if anything.
The whole “Stripper Ripper” enticed me, don’t question it. And then we have this sourly, cold-blooded assassin taking care of him and we have a recipe for delicious sexual tension. Did we get it? Hmmmm, on the fence on that one. It ran a bit hot-and-cold.
What I did like, but did throw me, was the whole robotics, sci-fi part to the story. I loved it, and I did not expect it. Perhaps I’m the only one on this but I love any sci-fi twist to books.
I did have some quibbles with the books particularly the others characters and members of the club, a bit too much hand hitting the table for me and their attitudes were unwarranted. Despite all that it was a quick read and it was entertaining whilst reading.
September 24, 2015
Content warnings: sex, gay relationships, death mentions, murder, attempted murder, violence, blood, kidnapping, BDSM/kink
I received a free copy of this as an ARC from NetGalley
Wow. This book was a trip. It was definitely an interesting read.
I really like the idea of nano chips inserted into people making them more super soldier-y on one hand. And on the other, I REALLY DISLIKE the idea. Because of the potential of abuse of that kind of power or someone going "fuck you I'm not following your orders". But in the context of this book I like how it all worked out. And the whole "I was an emotionless killing machine but now that you've been in my life I'm feeling things again".
Oh and the usage of condoms and lube! I liked that too. I DIDN'T like the whole "no negotiations or discussions about limits" before the BDSM/kink play comes in. But that's a YMMV type of thing. And I get that some people enjoy that kind of play. Heck if I were in a committed relationship for a while with someone even I could get behind that. But for a first time playing with someone new, for me, that's a HUGE red flag. But again, YMMV.
I didn't like the theory behind WHY he killed strippers. Because that's a really shitty reason. And I'm not spoiling it so I'm not going to say why. But it is an excuse that I've heard rapists use so there's that.
All in all, even though this is a series and this was the first book I read of it (even though it's the second in the series), this was a very enjoyable read that I'd recommend.
I received a free copy of this as an ARC from NetGalley
Wow. This book was a trip. It was definitely an interesting read.
I really like the idea of nano chips inserted into people making them more super soldier-y on one hand. And on the other, I REALLY DISLIKE the idea. Because of the potential of abuse of that kind of power or someone going "fuck you I'm not following your orders". But in the context of this book I like how it all worked out. And the whole "I was an emotionless killing machine but now that you've been in my life I'm feeling things again".
Oh and the usage of condoms and lube! I liked that too. I DIDN'T like the whole "no negotiations or discussions about limits" before the BDSM/kink play comes in. But that's a YMMV type of thing. And I get that some people enjoy that kind of play. Heck if I were in a committed relationship for a while with someone even I could get behind that. But for a first time playing with someone new, for me, that's a HUGE red flag. But again, YMMV.
I didn't like the theory behind WHY he killed strippers. Because that's a really shitty reason. And I'm not spoiling it so I'm not going to say why. But it is an excuse that I've heard rapists use so there's that.
All in all, even though this is a series and this was the first book I read of it (even though it's the second in the series), this was a very enjoyable read that I'd recommend.
October 10, 2015
Even have not read the first book in the series, this a was a good book that could be read as a standalone. Micah is a stripper that has had a feeling of being watched for six weeks, shortly after his Dom was killed. Sorren is a member of the Slayers, who has been tasked to watch Micah, because he fits the description of previous murder victims of the Stripper Ripper.
Sorren and Micah must learn to trust each other if they are going to survive being the target of a serial killer that the police can't find. Micah doesn't want to trust Sorren, he feels like he is being drugged every time Sorren gets close. Sorren doesn't want to give all his secrets to Micah, but in order to gain Micah's trust he is going to have to give up something.
Not quite sure what I was expecting from the book but it definitely wasn't what I found with this book, I was expecting a mystery with a security firm, but Sorren and the Slayers aren't just any type of security. What makes them different is something that we normally see in books, but it definitely made for an interesting read and to see how Micah reacts to those difference. The development of the relationship between Sorren and Micah is nice and slow building, even if they jump into bed together.
Sorren and Micah must learn to trust each other if they are going to survive being the target of a serial killer that the police can't find. Micah doesn't want to trust Sorren, he feels like he is being drugged every time Sorren gets close. Sorren doesn't want to give all his secrets to Micah, but in order to gain Micah's trust he is going to have to give up something.
Not quite sure what I was expecting from the book but it definitely wasn't what I found with this book, I was expecting a mystery with a security firm, but Sorren and the Slayers aren't just any type of security. What makes them different is something that we normally see in books, but it definitely made for an interesting read and to see how Micah reacts to those difference. The development of the relationship between Sorren and Micah is nice and slow building, even if they jump into bed together.
December 18, 2015
Original review on Molly Lolly
Three stars!
The premise of this story was very interesting. The follow through just didn’t deliver the way I had hoped it would. It was fascinating being in the head of the killer at points and seeing how he tried to hide himself. Then see how everyone else tried to figure out who he is with the minute clues that are left. Micah made some pretty bad decisions throughout the book that put him in harms way. Sorren was interesting in how he had his emotions removed yet could still be gentle with Micah when he wanted to be. Oftentimes he came off like a jerk when he was rough with Micah at times when he should have been more understanding. The story was a little over the top in some parts in a way that made me want to roll my eyes. There’s a good story under all of the excessive pieces. There are just more crazy pieces than I would have liked.
Three stars!
The premise of this story was very interesting. The follow through just didn’t deliver the way I had hoped it would. It was fascinating being in the head of the killer at points and seeing how he tried to hide himself. Then see how everyone else tried to figure out who he is with the minute clues that are left. Micah made some pretty bad decisions throughout the book that put him in harms way. Sorren was interesting in how he had his emotions removed yet could still be gentle with Micah when he wanted to be. Oftentimes he came off like a jerk when he was rough with Micah at times when he should have been more understanding. The story was a little over the top in some parts in a way that made me want to roll my eyes. There’s a good story under all of the excessive pieces. There are just more crazy pieces than I would have liked.
September 24, 2015
This book had it all for me. Blend together a mix of paranormal, m/m romance, a little bdsm, a suspenseful murder mystery with a HEA and you have me hooked. This is my first H.C. Brown novel and I look forward to reading more that hopefully include the remaining Slayers.
There is a string of unsolved murders involving male dancers which point to a serial killer in town. An elite group of enhanced ex-soldiers are tasked with protecting those who may be in danger of being next on the killer's list. Sorren is the former soldier tasked to keep an eye on Micah. Sorren is like a machine. No emotions, does his job and goes on to the next. When he must act quickly to save Micah, a bond is created between the two. Can Sorren protect Micah from the killer long enough to figure out if they are mated? Will Micah accept what Sorren is and the possibility that he may be different as well?
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There is a string of unsolved murders involving male dancers which point to a serial killer in town. An elite group of enhanced ex-soldiers are tasked with protecting those who may be in danger of being next on the killer's list. Sorren is the former soldier tasked to keep an eye on Micah. Sorren is like a machine. No emotions, does his job and goes on to the next. When he must act quickly to save Micah, a bond is created between the two. Can Sorren protect Micah from the killer long enough to figure out if they are mated? Will Micah accept what Sorren is and the possibility that he may be different as well?
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2016
Book 2 in a series. This wasn't an issue; It was a fairly decent stand alone book. BUT for some of the background to the characters, i'm guessing it will have been explored more in book 1?! - It wasn't a massive issue.
Micah's character - timid, but feisty when it needed it; sexy in his own skin and most certainly a head turner in this story. The chemistry between Micah and Sorren was great, not completely over the top cheesy/cringe worthy and cliche..... BUT just right! - It was HOT!.
This is typically not a book i would have selected to read, BUT i'm very glad I did. It has left me with many unanswered questions and wishes and hops for further stories in the series! - I will definitely be on the lookout for more.
Micah's character - timid, but feisty when it needed it; sexy in his own skin and most certainly a head turner in this story. The chemistry between Micah and Sorren was great, not completely over the top cheesy/cringe worthy and cliche..... BUT just right! - It was HOT!.
This is typically not a book i would have selected to read, BUT i'm very glad I did. It has left me with many unanswered questions and wishes and hops for further stories in the series! - I will definitely be on the lookout for more.
September 13, 2015
This is a new to me author. That being said. Wow. I found this to be a very unique story that I enjoyed. I didn't realize until I was well into the book that it was the second in the series. I thought this was a well planned out story and a quick read. Who doesn't love man love?...
This story with give you elite soldiers, a secret society, regenerative nanos, domination, suspense, sci-fi, and a cat. Let's not forget the hope of more stories to come in the series.
This story with give you elite soldiers, a secret society, regenerative nanos, domination, suspense, sci-fi, and a cat. Let's not forget the hope of more stories to come in the series.
September 26, 2015
Ex-Special Ops, cyber-enhanced, genetically perfect men, who are only attracted and destined to mate with other men. This is one seriously HOT M/M story!
The book is a crime/thriller with all the tension and suspense that accompany that genre, but teamed with extremely erotic undertones and just a touch of BDSM too!
H.C. Brown has a brand new fan, and I’ll definitely be looking for more from The Slayers!!
The book is a crime/thriller with all the tension and suspense that accompany that genre, but teamed with extremely erotic undertones and just a touch of BDSM too!
H.C. Brown has a brand new fan, and I’ll definitely be looking for more from The Slayers!!
March 13, 2017
this just didnt do it for. i enjoy a good light bdsm or m/m but there was just so much lacking.
August 16, 2017
Awesome story, want more please
Great book, very well written. The book pulls you in almost right away ,you can't put it down. It's fast paced yet leaves nothing out. Hot strippers, nano enhanced Hot men
and a strange murderer all in one book wow . :) Get this book you'll love it to. Well worth the money spent . Hope there's a Series with this group and we see lots more of them and the two main in this story.
Great book, very well written. The book pulls you in almost right away ,you can't put it down. It's fast paced yet leaves nothing out. Hot strippers, nano enhanced Hot men
and a strange murderer all in one book wow . :) Get this book you'll love it to. Well worth the money spent . Hope there's a Series with this group and we see lots more of them and the two main in this story.
August 31, 2015
Stalked by H.C. Brown
4.5 stars
M/M Mystery, BDSM, Murder, Paranormal, Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
I have to first say that I have not read book 1 and didn't feel that I needed to. There were a few places where it might have been helpful, but overall, it was not necessary.
I really enjoyed Micah's character. He seemed genuine, if not a bit timid, but when push came to shove, he was all in. The chemistry between him and Sorren was off the charts! I enjoyed the power play and the fact that Micah was so open and honest.
Then you have Sorren. While he is supposed to be somewhat immune to feelings, Micah burrows his way in to Sorren's being. You can really see how much he cares for his charge and in return, how hard of a struggle it is for Sorren to allow Micah into his heart.
Conversely, it is hard for Micah, because of his own past to let Sorren in. He seems to constantly be second guessing and that was somewhat grating, however, in the end, they both find what is necessary within themselves. They make each other better.
I do wish that I had known a little more about Micah and his first Dom's relationship a little more. I would have felt more connected to Micah's struggle, I think. The sexual scenes in this story were intense and, I thought, pretty well planned out. Anticipation was the key.
Overall, this was a hot story with a great story line.
Can't wait to read what's next.
4.5 stars
M/M Mystery, BDSM, Murder, Paranormal, Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
I have to first say that I have not read book 1 and didn't feel that I needed to. There were a few places where it might have been helpful, but overall, it was not necessary.
I really enjoyed Micah's character. He seemed genuine, if not a bit timid, but when push came to shove, he was all in. The chemistry between him and Sorren was off the charts! I enjoyed the power play and the fact that Micah was so open and honest.
Then you have Sorren. While he is supposed to be somewhat immune to feelings, Micah burrows his way in to Sorren's being. You can really see how much he cares for his charge and in return, how hard of a struggle it is for Sorren to allow Micah into his heart.
Conversely, it is hard for Micah, because of his own past to let Sorren in. He seems to constantly be second guessing and that was somewhat grating, however, in the end, they both find what is necessary within themselves. They make each other better.
I do wish that I had known a little more about Micah and his first Dom's relationship a little more. I would have felt more connected to Micah's struggle, I think. The sexual scenes in this story were intense and, I thought, pretty well planned out. Anticipation was the key.
Overall, this was a hot story with a great story line.
Can't wait to read what's next.
April 4, 2016
Reviewed by Nikki K. for QUEERcentric Books
2.5 stars
Stalked by H.C. Brown was an interesting take on the “enhanced soldier” theme. While some parts fell a bit short, Stalked still had some redeeming qualities and was an entertaining read.
So this book had a lot going for it when I originally read the blurb and I was really excited about it. Unfortunately, while there were some bright spots, there were also things that didn’t quite work.
There’s a serial killer brutally murdering young men and they all have a few things in common: they were all twinks, strippers, and submissives. Too bad for Micah—he checks all of those boxes.
Read Nikki's full review at QUEERcentric Books!
2.5 stars
Stalked by H.C. Brown was an interesting take on the “enhanced soldier” theme. While some parts fell a bit short, Stalked still had some redeeming qualities and was an entertaining read.
So this book had a lot going for it when I originally read the blurb and I was really excited about it. Unfortunately, while there were some bright spots, there were also things that didn’t quite work.
There’s a serial killer brutally murdering young men and they all have a few things in common: they were all twinks, strippers, and submissives. Too bad for Micah—he checks all of those boxes.
Read Nikki's full review at QUEERcentric Books!
September 14, 2015
3.5 stars
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