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Planetary Submissives #1
Chalice
Chalice by Amber Kell
The Planetary Submissives series
About Amber Kell
Book one in the Planetary Submissives series
In order to stop his magic from eating him alive, Chalice seeks out a man strong enough to dominate and control him.
Chalice might be a prince on his planet, but his submissive tendencies prevent him from dealing with the incredible energy coursing through his body. Magic users need a second to balance them out, but there has never been a case where the one with the power didn’t hold the dominant position. Chalice’s ability as a rare four-elemental magic wielder already marks him as different, though. And with the king in denial of his son’s needs, he has no choice but to look off-planet to find a powerful partner.
He runs into a diplomat on a mission, who leads Chalice to agree to be the pet of an emperor—one whose reputation for tossing aside subs is only balanced out by the fact that Chalice thinks he’s the sexiest creature he’s ever seen. Chalice takes the plunge, hoping the biggest gamble of his life won’t prove to be his biggest mistake.
The Planetary Submissives series
Being strong doesn't mean you don't need anyone.
Depending on another person doesn't make you weak, because sometimes letting someone else help proves you're braver than you thought. In some cases, submissives that are more powerful than most in their own right need another man or men to balance them. Combining love and abilities has never been so sexy. Exotic planets, rich traditions and unusual situations give a unique look at men who'll risk everything for the chance to find the perfect partner to complete them.
About Amber Kell
Amber Kell has made a career out of daydreaming. It has been a lifelong habit she practices diligently as shown by her complete lack of focus on anything not related to her fantasy world building.
When she told her husband what she wanted to do with her life he told her to go have fun.
During those seconds she isn't writing she remembers she has children who humor her with games of 'what if' and let her drag them to foreign lands to gather inspiration. Her youngest confided in her that he wants to write because he longs for a website and an author name—two things apparently necessary to be a proper writer.
Despite her husband's insistence she doesn't drink enough to be a true literary genius she continues to spin stories of people falling happily in love and staying that way.
She is thwarted during the day by a traffic jam of cats on the stairway and a puppy who insists on walks, but she bravely perseveres.
84 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2012
29 people are currently reading
415 people want to read
About the author
Amber Kell
179 books1,282 followersAmber Kell has made a career out of daydreaming. It has been a lifelong habit she practices diligently as shown by her complete lack of focus on anything not related to her fantasy world building.
When she told her husband what she wanted to do with her life he told her to go have fun.
During those seconds she isn't writing she remembers she has children who humor her with games of 'what if' and let her drag them to foreign lands to gather inspiration. Her youngest confided in her that he wants to write because he longs for a website and an author name—two things apparently necessary to be a proper writer.
Despite her husband's insistence she doesn't drink enough to be a true literary genius she continues to spin stories of people falling happily in love and staying that way.
She is thwarted during the day by a traffic jam of cats on the stairway and a puppy who insists on walks, but she bravely perseveres..
She also writes under the name Mikela Q. Chase
When she told her husband what she wanted to do with her life he told her to go have fun.
During those seconds she isn't writing she remembers she has children who humor her with games of 'what if' and let her drag them to foreign lands to gather inspiration. Her youngest confided in her that he wants to write because he longs for a website and an author name—two things apparently necessary to be a proper writer.
Despite her husband's insistence she doesn't drink enough to be a true literary genius she continues to spin stories of people falling happily in love and staying that way.
She is thwarted during the day by a traffic jam of cats on the stairway and a puppy who insists on walks, but she bravely perseveres..
She also writes under the name Mikela Q. Chase
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
December 4, 2015
flat-out horrendous.
rushed, incoherent, and far too dependent on breezily throwaway explanations instead of actual scene-setting, description, or visuals.
less a narrative than a series of notes.
nowhere near enough story for a novel, and not enough sex to be erotica—so what in the fuck did i just read?
i've no idea, but it gave me neither feelz nor boners.
rushed, incoherent, and far too dependent on breezily throwaway explanations instead of actual scene-setting, description, or visuals.
less a narrative than a series of notes.
nowhere near enough story for a novel, and not enough sex to be erotica—so what in the fuck did i just read?
i've no idea, but it gave me neither feelz nor boners.
August 10, 2022
This was my second time reading this book.
This was book 1 in the "Planetary Submissives" series. Chalice is a Prince on his planet but he is submissive and he needs a strong dominant man to control his magic. This was a good read. Chalice feels out of place in his father's palace and leaves in search of a master who will help him control his magical powers. He finds him in Emperor Terrin he is getting a tough man who goes through submissives like water. The big tough emperor has more than met his match in Chalice. Once he figures out just who Chalice is to both him and his station in life he will have more than he ever thought. This was a good read wished it was longer I love reading Ms. Kell's books. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling.
This was book 1 in the "Planetary Submissives" series. Chalice is a Prince on his planet but he is submissive and he needs a strong dominant man to control his magic. This was a good read. Chalice feels out of place in his father's palace and leaves in search of a master who will help him control his magical powers. He finds him in Emperor Terrin he is getting a tough man who goes through submissives like water. The big tough emperor has more than met his match in Chalice. Once he figures out just who Chalice is to both him and his station in life he will have more than he ever thought. This was a good read wished it was longer I love reading Ms. Kell's books. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling.
May 27, 2012
A perfectly good plot outline waiting for someone to write the actual book.
January 16, 2016
3.25 stars
Extremely fast paced, but still enjoyable.
The MCs had almost no background, there was little to no world building, it had an extreme case of insta-love, the story felt rushed, and I still liked it.
Extremely fast paced, but still enjoyable.
The MCs had almost no background, there was little to no world building, it had an extreme case of insta-love, the story felt rushed, and I still liked it.
June 6, 2012
Oh, Amber Kell. A must when it comes to guilty pleasure reads.
If I felt any guilt reading her work, that is. :P
Why do they call them guilty pleasures anyway?
It's not as if it's that easy to sneak a book add into goodreads.
Someone's always watching.
If I felt any guilt reading her work, that is. :P
Why do they call them guilty pleasures anyway?
It's not as if it's that easy to sneak a book add into goodreads.
Someone's always watching.
Read
April 24, 2012OMG THANK YOU MS KELL. Reading this gave me the most raunchy, kinky, hot fun plot bunny and within 18 hours of finishing this I have 8k and counting. And precious little sleep.
January 29, 2016
I was extremely disappointed in myself that I almost let a couple bad reviews dissuade me from reading what was actually a really good book & is in genres I rarely dislike. To be fair though, I did read the newest edition & I'm not sure what/if changes were made.
I somewhat knew what to expect going in. This is a short story so there was not as much storyline or character development you'd get with a full length novel. But this was a complete & full story that did not leave me hanging or feeling cheated. I don't know why people expect the depth of a full length novel in a short story, but to each their own I guess.
For the book content ...
I absolutely loved all the main characters & a few scenes had me laughing out loud. Chalice (male mc) is a bit of a twink - he was both cute & funny. Terrin (other male mc) is a bit of a brute except for where Chalice is concerned, which was actually very sweet in a demented kind of way.
The erotica portion was lite & the sex scenes were much too brief for my taste, but I feel that way about most romances. I would say this book was more romance than erotica, if you differentiate between the two like I do.
The BDSM was a little blurred in the D/s department, but I wouldn't really consider this a BDSM book - more of a book that has a little BDSM in it. Although, there is a spanking scene as punishment which might be a trigger for some - you've been warned - however the scene is pretty brief.
Overall, if you like Science Fiction Romance with M/m then chances are you'll more than likely like this. For those of my friends that like to switch their reading back/forth from light/dark, this will satisfy your sweet side.
I will be continuing on with this series because there was a pretty cool side character name Zall & he gets his own book in #3 of the series.
I somewhat knew what to expect going in. This is a short story so there was not as much storyline or character development you'd get with a full length novel. But this was a complete & full story that did not leave me hanging or feeling cheated. I don't know why people expect the depth of a full length novel in a short story, but to each their own I guess.
For the book content ...
I absolutely loved all the main characters & a few scenes had me laughing out loud. Chalice (male mc) is a bit of a twink - he was both cute & funny. Terrin (other male mc) is a bit of a brute except for where Chalice is concerned, which was actually very sweet in a demented kind of way.
The erotica portion was lite & the sex scenes were much too brief for my taste, but I feel that way about most romances. I would say this book was more romance than erotica, if you differentiate between the two like I do.
The BDSM was a little blurred in the D/s department, but I wouldn't really consider this a BDSM book - more of a book that has a little BDSM in it. Although, there is a spanking scene as punishment which might be a trigger for some - you've been warned - however the scene is pretty brief.
Overall, if you like Science Fiction Romance with M/m then chances are you'll more than likely like this. For those of my friends that like to switch their reading back/forth from light/dark, this will satisfy your sweet side.
I will be continuing on with this series because there was a pretty cool side character name Zall & he gets his own book in #3 of the series.
December 6, 2015
Once again I fell for the blurb and read this short story with mounting dismay. I reached the end, and was left questioning is that it? Chalice feels rushed and incomplete.
The plot sounds terrific, a fantasy in a sci-fi setting with magic and BDSM elements and instead it reads like a series of notes from which neither the plot nor the characters develop with any depth.
The tone is jovial which doesn't work in a story with a more serious theme and it put the whole thing off kilter for me. It was like watching pantomime when I was expecting a thriller.
Prince Chalice is searching for a Master to help him control his immense magic power. His search brings him to Emperor Terrin whom Chalice believes will help to centre his magic.
What irritated me possibly more than the banal interactions and insta-love scenario, was the manipulative and deceptive behaviour of Terrin aimed at tricking Chalice into signing a contract to become his pet.
I would have thought for a relationship with an element of power exchange to work, both integrity and honesty should be central.
In many ways reading this was like reading a farce, perhaps this was the intention, but for me it was unexpected. I was hoping for a more serious story and the light-hearted tone jarred. Not impressed and disinclined to read any further in the planetary submissive series particularly when there appears to be a flawed understanding of what power exchange actually involves.
The plot sounds terrific, a fantasy in a sci-fi setting with magic and BDSM elements and instead it reads like a series of notes from which neither the plot nor the characters develop with any depth.
The tone is jovial which doesn't work in a story with a more serious theme and it put the whole thing off kilter for me. It was like watching pantomime when I was expecting a thriller.
Prince Chalice is searching for a Master to help him control his immense magic power. His search brings him to Emperor Terrin whom Chalice believes will help to centre his magic.
What irritated me possibly more than the banal interactions and insta-love scenario, was the manipulative and deceptive behaviour of Terrin aimed at tricking Chalice into signing a contract to become his pet.
Zall’s appalled expression tickled Terrin. Maybe he’d enjoy having the slave around after all. In general, he didn’t care about slaves’welfare or how they became slaves, but it didn’t hurt that Chalice now thought better of him. His pet would be more pliable if he thought he had a hero for a Master.
I would have thought for a relationship with an element of power exchange to work, both integrity and honesty should be central.
In many ways reading this was like reading a farce, perhaps this was the intention, but for me it was unexpected. I was hoping for a more serious story and the light-hearted tone jarred. Not impressed and disinclined to read any further in the planetary submissive series particularly when there appears to be a flawed understanding of what power exchange actually involves.
February 3, 2016
The first book in this futuristic series is the story of a prince, supposedly destined to rule, who needs a Master (ideally, a sexual Master) to control him. The fact that he is also a magic user needing someone to balance him to avoid losing control makes the whole setup a little more volatile. Who, after all, wants - or can afford to have - magic running amok?
Chalice is a prince running out of time. Significant damage has already been done to his father’s castle because he cannot control his magic. Different from other royal magic users, he needs a Dom to balance him, not a sub. Not something his father, the king, wants to even contemplate. The whole situation is rather funny, but when Chalice runs into a normally sour and almost evil emperor who is looking for a new pet, a corner is turned.
Terrin Hawk, the emperor who mends his ways almost upon catching sight of Chalice, is somewhat of an enigma to me. He has clearly been cruel before, using and discarding subs left and right, but suddenly wants more with Chalice. I put it down to Chalice’s magical abilities because it certainly can’t be anything else; not within the timeframe of this story, which is only a few days!
It is too bad that the emperor changes his views so quickly, much more fun could have been had with the conflict between Chalice ‘topping from the bottom’ and the emperor not knowing what hit him. But then again, the series tagline: “Being strong doesn’t mean you don’t need anyone.” and the whole idea behind it sounds more like fun than serious BDSM. If this first installment is anything to go by, it is all about the light touch, some occasional humor, and very gentle D/s themes. Definitely a fun, quick read.
NOTE: This book was provided by Total-E-Bound for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Chalice is a prince running out of time. Significant damage has already been done to his father’s castle because he cannot control his magic. Different from other royal magic users, he needs a Dom to balance him, not a sub. Not something his father, the king, wants to even contemplate. The whole situation is rather funny, but when Chalice runs into a normally sour and almost evil emperor who is looking for a new pet, a corner is turned.
Terrin Hawk, the emperor who mends his ways almost upon catching sight of Chalice, is somewhat of an enigma to me. He has clearly been cruel before, using and discarding subs left and right, but suddenly wants more with Chalice. I put it down to Chalice’s magical abilities because it certainly can’t be anything else; not within the timeframe of this story, which is only a few days!
It is too bad that the emperor changes his views so quickly, much more fun could have been had with the conflict between Chalice ‘topping from the bottom’ and the emperor not knowing what hit him. But then again, the series tagline: “Being strong doesn’t mean you don’t need anyone.” and the whole idea behind it sounds more like fun than serious BDSM. If this first installment is anything to go by, it is all about the light touch, some occasional humor, and very gentle D/s themes. Definitely a fun, quick read.
NOTE: This book was provided by Total-E-Bound for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
March 3, 2013
The idea for this one is fantastic! I was so excited at the prospect of a fantasy in a sci-fi setting with BDSM elements--sounds like a lot to pack into a story, but the way the blurb read it sounded like it could totally work.
And it might have.
Ms. Kell is a delightful writer and I've very much enjoyed her light-hearted, fun, sarcastic stories (the Swan Prince series especially) but the light-hearted tone in this more serious storyline turned this into a farce.
The characters have no depth (which works fine in her lighter, sweeter stories which are meant to feel more fairy-tale-like) and so I was unable to sympathize with them. I actually began to despise Terrin. He's supposed to be this badass dom who goes through subs like candy. I never actually got that impression, either from being in Chalice's head around him or being in Terrin's own head. Being in Terrin's head was horribly frustrating. He kept telling himself over and over that he needed to be nice still and not scare Chalice off yet because Chalice hadn't signed the contract. It seemed shady and dishonest rather than confident and trustworthy as he should have been if he really were a "good" dom.
The melodrama bit near the end didn't bother me as it did some other reviewers. (I was expecting an Amber Kell story, after all.) I actually found parts of the melodrama and the ending to be some of my favorite bits of the story.
And it might have.
Ms. Kell is a delightful writer and I've very much enjoyed her light-hearted, fun, sarcastic stories (the Swan Prince series especially) but the light-hearted tone in this more serious storyline turned this into a farce.
The characters have no depth (which works fine in her lighter, sweeter stories which are meant to feel more fairy-tale-like) and so I was unable to sympathize with them. I actually began to despise Terrin. He's supposed to be this badass dom who goes through subs like candy. I never actually got that impression, either from being in Chalice's head around him or being in Terrin's own head. Being in Terrin's head was horribly frustrating. He kept telling himself over and over that he needed to be nice still and not scare Chalice off yet because Chalice hadn't signed the contract. It seemed shady and dishonest rather than confident and trustworthy as he should have been if he really were a "good" dom.
The melodrama bit near the end didn't bother me as it did some other reviewers. (I was expecting an Amber Kell story, after all.) I actually found parts of the melodrama and the ending to be some of my favorite bits of the story.
December 20, 2013
3.5 stars
Originally read June 17, 2012
I greatly enjoyed this book, I think this is a very intriguing series and I will definitely be reading the others in this series (there are currently 2 with another on the way). My only problem with this book is how short it is. Important details and encounters are rushed, details are left out and the end result is that, while I like the story, I feel like it's entirely unbelievable. Yes, I know magic and aliens are science fiction, but the romance feels fake with how rushed it is. The characters seem superficial as we don't have time to truly bond with them. I know Amber is known for writing short stories and I do enjoy them, but I usually wish they were longer. This book, I felt, needed to be longer, not just because I wanted more, but because the story suffered due to the length and it didn't have to. This book has the potential to be a 4 or 5 star book and this series shows promise. I would recommend it to anyone, particularly those who like more sci-fi type books. It's a fun read and an interesting new universe.
Originally read June 17, 2012
I greatly enjoyed this book, I think this is a very intriguing series and I will definitely be reading the others in this series (there are currently 2 with another on the way). My only problem with this book is how short it is. Important details and encounters are rushed, details are left out and the end result is that, while I like the story, I feel like it's entirely unbelievable. Yes, I know magic and aliens are science fiction, but the romance feels fake with how rushed it is. The characters seem superficial as we don't have time to truly bond with them. I know Amber is known for writing short stories and I do enjoy them, but I usually wish they were longer. This book, I felt, needed to be longer, not just because I wanted more, but because the story suffered due to the length and it didn't have to. This book has the potential to be a 4 or 5 star book and this series shows promise. I would recommend it to anyone, particularly those who like more sci-fi type books. It's a fun read and an interesting new universe.
January 16, 2012
I just wished it was longer.
January 10, 2013
I thought I wouldn't like this book ('cause of that submissive-needs-a-master-to-live thing) but I really enjoyed it!
January 30, 2019
3.25 stars
January 3, 2013
3 1/2 Hearts
Review first posted at MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
Chalice needs a strong Dominant male to help balance out his magic. Without a grounding force, he can only control his magic for minutes at a time, before he loses control. Chalice leaves his planet and takes a chance and hopes everything will work out. Terrin is an emperor, who has discarded many pets, but Chalice has caught his eye and Chalice’s demeanor intrigues him and he suspects he won’t get bored with him so easily.
Okay, I was really looking forward to this book, as I had been teased by Ms. Kell releasing little snippets on her blog for seems like forever. The earliest post being way back when in 2010 (I have a long memory). And I did enjoy the story…kinda. Chalice is looking for a Master to ground him and help him balance his magic. He has come to terms with his needs, despite his family insisting that he should be the master and not the mastered, due to the level of his magic. Meanwhile, Terrin wants a pet/sub who can keep his attention. When these two meet it seems like a connection made in heaven, but Chalice has to tell Terrin his secrets and hope he reacts well.
This has a good story-line and plot, the characters are portrayed really well, the sex was hot and the story was humorous in places… but it wasn’t as well-developed as Ms Kell’s previous work; (which is really strange as she doesn’t usually miss a beat). Because although we are told that Chalice is a four elemental magic wielder and that he needs a Master to balance it out the details were not there, you know… how does it balance it out? How does it work? Who was behind the attack? So Ms Kell has a slightly lower rating this time.
So my recommendation… although not up to the authors usually par this is still an enjoyable, cute novella. There is definitely room for a series. There is one traveler, in particular, who would make a great main character in a sequel. *hint, hint* It has hot sex, great characters, a bit of danger, a bit of angst and a HEA so I’d say get the book, grab a cup of tea and enjoy.
Review first posted at MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
Chalice needs a strong Dominant male to help balance out his magic. Without a grounding force, he can only control his magic for minutes at a time, before he loses control. Chalice leaves his planet and takes a chance and hopes everything will work out. Terrin is an emperor, who has discarded many pets, but Chalice has caught his eye and Chalice’s demeanor intrigues him and he suspects he won’t get bored with him so easily.
Okay, I was really looking forward to this book, as I had been teased by Ms. Kell releasing little snippets on her blog for seems like forever. The earliest post being way back when in 2010 (I have a long memory). And I did enjoy the story…kinda. Chalice is looking for a Master to ground him and help him balance his magic. He has come to terms with his needs, despite his family insisting that he should be the master and not the mastered, due to the level of his magic. Meanwhile, Terrin wants a pet/sub who can keep his attention. When these two meet it seems like a connection made in heaven, but Chalice has to tell Terrin his secrets and hope he reacts well.
This has a good story-line and plot, the characters are portrayed really well, the sex was hot and the story was humorous in places… but it wasn’t as well-developed as Ms Kell’s previous work; (which is really strange as she doesn’t usually miss a beat). Because although we are told that Chalice is a four elemental magic wielder and that he needs a Master to balance it out the details were not there, you know… how does it balance it out? How does it work? Who was behind the attack? So Ms Kell has a slightly lower rating this time.
So my recommendation… although not up to the authors usually par this is still an enjoyable, cute novella. There is definitely room for a series. There is one traveler, in particular, who would make a great main character in a sequel. *hint, hint* It has hot sex, great characters, a bit of danger, a bit of angst and a HEA so I’d say get the book, grab a cup of tea and enjoy.
March 31, 2015
2015 Re-read:
This book amuses me to no end. I don’t know how many times I’ve read it now. And the amusement never fades.
The way Terrin is pretending to be considerate to impress and ensnare his pet, when in reality he does not give a damn about anyone but himself? That makes it even more delicious to see him become entirely obsessed with Chalice and his well-being. And even Chalice has a deeply egotistical streak.
With all of that it’s still a sweet romance besides the fun. Sure, it is fast as all of this author’s stories. But as I’ve said countless times before, sometimes that’s just the perfect thing to balance out more drawn-out readings.
Heh. Fun!
2012 Review:
Teehee. Now I feel better. I’d inadvertently glanced through a rape scene in a book that I’m sure is very good and will read at some point, but which I am obviously not ready for at this time. It made me feel depressed. So I went looking for something safe and happy. Voilà! This one fit the bill perfectly.
Because I know the author and her delightful penchant for letting the bottom come out on top, i.e. completely wrap the big, bad alpha around his finger, I fully enjoyed Torrin’s scheming to make himself appear better than he is and entrap Chalice. It’s so nice when you can rely on certain things. Such as Torrin ending up, well, still not much caring about anyone, but completely devoted to Chalice. I so like it when the domination turns into taking care gently.
Mind you, he apparently used to be brutal and he still has no concern for the well-being of others, but it seems as though Chalice grounds him that way too. Even if it’s just to retain his hero status in his lover’s eyes.
And anyway, also following the author’s usual character types, Chalice himself has a pretty wide and unapologetic ruthless streak.
So yeah, this was not a long story and it did not delve deeply into anything, but there were a few adorable people and warm fuzzies ensued in the end.
This book amuses me to no end. I don’t know how many times I’ve read it now. And the amusement never fades.
The way Terrin is pretending to be considerate to impress and ensnare his pet, when in reality he does not give a damn about anyone but himself? That makes it even more delicious to see him become entirely obsessed with Chalice and his well-being. And even Chalice has a deeply egotistical streak.
With all of that it’s still a sweet romance besides the fun. Sure, it is fast as all of this author’s stories. But as I’ve said countless times before, sometimes that’s just the perfect thing to balance out more drawn-out readings.
Heh. Fun!
2012 Review:
Teehee. Now I feel better. I’d inadvertently glanced through a rape scene in a book that I’m sure is very good and will read at some point, but which I am obviously not ready for at this time. It made me feel depressed. So I went looking for something safe and happy. Voilà! This one fit the bill perfectly.
Because I know the author and her delightful penchant for letting the bottom come out on top, i.e. completely wrap the big, bad alpha around his finger, I fully enjoyed Torrin’s scheming to make himself appear better than he is and entrap Chalice. It’s so nice when you can rely on certain things. Such as Torrin ending up, well, still not much caring about anyone, but completely devoted to Chalice. I so like it when the domination turns into taking care gently.
Mind you, he apparently used to be brutal and he still has no concern for the well-being of others, but it seems as though Chalice grounds him that way too. Even if it’s just to retain his hero status in his lover’s eyes.
And anyway, also following the author’s usual character types, Chalice himself has a pretty wide and unapologetic ruthless streak.
So yeah, this was not a long story and it did not delve deeply into anything, but there were a few adorable people and warm fuzzies ensued in the end.
January 9, 2013
Chalice introduces us to the first of Amber Kell's Planetary Submissives. Chalice, a Prince who is also a rare four-elemental mage, knows that he must find a powerful partner in order to balance his power. Typically such magic holders would find a submissive to balance their power, but in this case Chalice is a submissive and needs a dominant as a partner.
The character and world development was well-done, especially considering the length of the story. I really liked Odwill, Chalice's manservant. In fact, I liked everyone except for Chalice's Master. I jumped right into book 2, Orlin's Fall and look forward to reading book 3, Zall's Captain due out later this month. [Full Rating: 3.5★]
"... sometimes you have to give up something you want in order to get something you need"Chalice holds his deceased mother's journal that periodically reveals such words of wisdom. Though he lost her long ago, Queen Nyaha's messages help guide him. Now of age, he heads out in search of a Master. While at the spaceport searching for a ship, he meets Dahla Soon who is hoping to negotiate mining rights on Zaraga. The two make a pact - she'll give him free transport and share some of the money she makes from the mining rights if he agrees to be a present for Terrin Hawk, the Emperor and sticks to any contract Chalice signs with him.
The character and world development was well-done, especially considering the length of the story. I really liked Odwill, Chalice's manservant. In fact, I liked everyone except for Chalice's Master. I jumped right into book 2, Orlin's Fall and look forward to reading book 3, Zall's Captain due out later this month. [Full Rating: 3.5★]
May 8, 2023
This is a perfect coffee break book that dabbles with BDSM but doesn't go into too much detail, whilst it is put in a science fiction backdrop.
Chalice is a four-elemental mage but his magic is out of control. In a world where magic users are paired off into dominant and submissive roles, it is usually the strong magic user who is dominant, except in this case. Chalice is a submissive and isn't getting the support he needs at home. This means that he is increasing the risk of his magic being completely out of control, followed by disaster. He decides to strike out on his own and find himself a Master. He finds Terrin - a Master that goes through submissives like water through a sieve. He is intrigued by Chalice though, and is determined to make him his own. These two are more like Partners than D/s, but still, it is a quick, fun and steamy read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, complete with the quick world and character-building. I am hoping for more from this series. Smoothly paced and with a hint of things to come, definitely recommended.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 5, 2015
Chalice is a four-elemental mage but his magic is out of control. In a world where magic users are paired off into dominant and submissive roles, it is usually the strong magic user who is dominant, except in this case. Chalice is a submissive and isn't getting the support he needs at home. This means that he is increasing the risk of his magic being completely out of control, followed by disaster. He decides to strike out on his own and find himself a Master. He finds Terrin - a Master that goes through submissives like water through a sieve. He is intrigued by Chalice though, and is determined to make him his own. These two are more like Partners than D/s, but still, it is a quick, fun and steamy read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, complete with the quick world and character-building. I am hoping for more from this series. Smoothly paced and with a hint of things to come, definitely recommended.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 5, 2015
February 9, 2012
Chalice is no wimpy submissive as he chooses what to obey. He does not get punished or bullied either. Those who are into BDSM lifestyle will find this lame.
Removed a star because: Insights to Emperor Hawk's character based on past actions pissed me off as well. He jumps dumps former desperate subs who have nowhere to go and accdg to a doctor was not gentle with them so they usually tore. (PRICK!) It turns out he doesn't like typical subs he wants someone like Chalice-- a strong willed sub who can tell him no. Why then did he go for subs in the past? of course those poor destitute boys would be so scared and act the part expected of them. Geez watta bully!
Removed a star because: Insights to Emperor Hawk's character based on past actions pissed me off as well. He jumps dumps former desperate subs who have nowhere to go and accdg to a doctor was not gentle with them so they usually tore. (PRICK!) It turns out he doesn't like typical subs he wants someone like Chalice-- a strong willed sub who can tell him no. Why then did he go for subs in the past? of course those poor destitute boys would be so scared and act the part expected of them. Geez watta bully!
January 31, 2020
Re-read: January 2020
Rating: 3 stars
I remember liking this more the first time I read it. I definitely was a complete story, but it felt rushed. I did like it. I liked all the characters. Just wish it would have been a bit longer.
Rating: 3 stars
I remember liking this more the first time I read it. I definitely was a complete story, but it felt rushed. I did like it. I liked all the characters. Just wish it would have been a bit longer.
February 3, 2016
The first book in this futuristic series is the story of a prince, supposedly destined to rule, who needs a Master (ideally, a sexual Master) to control him. The fact that he is also a magic user needing someone to balance him to avoid losing control makes the whole setup a little more volatile. Who, after all, wants - or can afford to have - magic running amok?
Chalice is a prince running out of time. Significant damage has already been done to his father’s castle because he cannot control his magic. Different from other royal magic users, he needs a Dom to balance him, not a sub. Not something his father, the king, wants to even contemplate. The whole situation is rather funny, but when Chalice runs into a normally sour and almost evil emperor who is looking for a new pet, a corner is turned.
Terrin Hawk, the emperor who mends his ways almost upon catching sight of Chalice, is somewhat of an enigma to me. He has clearly been cruel before, using and discarding subs left and right, but suddenly wants more with Chalice. I put it down to Chalice’s magical abilities because it certainly can’t be anything else; not within the timeframe of this story, which is only a few days!
It is too bad that the emperor changes his views so quickly, much more fun could have been had with the conflict between Chalice ‘topping from the bottom’ and the emperor not knowing what hit him. But then again, the series tagline: “Being strong doesn’t mean you don’t need anyone.” and the whole idea behind it sounds more like fun than serious BDSM. If this first installment is anything to go by, it is all about the light touch, some occasional humor, and very gentle D/s themes. Definitely a fun, quick read.
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Chalice is a prince running out of time. Significant damage has already been done to his father’s castle because he cannot control his magic. Different from other royal magic users, he needs a Dom to balance him, not a sub. Not something his father, the king, wants to even contemplate. The whole situation is rather funny, but when Chalice runs into a normally sour and almost evil emperor who is looking for a new pet, a corner is turned.
Terrin Hawk, the emperor who mends his ways almost upon catching sight of Chalice, is somewhat of an enigma to me. He has clearly been cruel before, using and discarding subs left and right, but suddenly wants more with Chalice. I put it down to Chalice’s magical abilities because it certainly can’t be anything else; not within the timeframe of this story, which is only a few days!
It is too bad that the emperor changes his views so quickly, much more fun could have been had with the conflict between Chalice ‘topping from the bottom’ and the emperor not knowing what hit him. But then again, the series tagline: “Being strong doesn’t mean you don’t need anyone.” and the whole idea behind it sounds more like fun than serious BDSM. If this first installment is anything to go by, it is all about the light touch, some occasional humor, and very gentle D/s themes. Definitely a fun, quick read.
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
January 9, 2016
This is a short story but I think the author did a great job with character and story development. I loved the concept and bought the book just based off of the blurb, Kell delivered. I was transported to another world and thoroughly enjoyed the story, Terrin and Chalice make a great couple. Could it have been longer, sure but I wasn't disappointed by the length at all. Like another reviewer I wanted Zall to get his own book and I see that he does, book 3. I also loved the quotes by Queen Nyaha at the start of every chapter, very wise woman.
March 22, 2016
A pesar de que eché en falta un poco más de desarrollo del mundo y las capacidades de los protagonistas de esta historia, creo que Amber ha logrado su cometido.
La relación entre Chalice y Terrin resulta bastante realista, más allá de las circunstancias por las cuales ambos terminan juntos, me gustó también cómo están planteadas las personalidades de los protagonistas haciendo que ambos tengan sus particularidades.
Hacia el final la autora me sorprendió con el giro que da a la relación de Chalice con su familia y cómo termina finalmente con Terrin. Recomendable.
La relación entre Chalice y Terrin resulta bastante realista, más allá de las circunstancias por las cuales ambos terminan juntos, me gustó también cómo están planteadas las personalidades de los protagonistas haciendo que ambos tengan sus particularidades.
Hacia el final la autora me sorprendió con el giro que da a la relación de Chalice con su familia y cómo termina finalmente con Terrin. Recomendable.
October 6, 2012
It was actually pretty good until about 2/3 of the way through, when it dissolved into melodrama.
The original idea is interesting, though, but I feel like it was kind of...odd, in many ways.
The original idea is interesting, though, but I feel like it was kind of...odd, in many ways.
March 29, 2016
An interesting sci-fi, D/s story. I liked Chalice, very much, but wasn't particularly sold on Terrin. He said and did all the right things by the end, but some of his thoughts in the beginning were off-putting.
August 31, 2021
el libro no es bueno, pero tampoco es esencialmente malo, es exactamente lo que promete, sexo sin mucha trama. La trama es sencilla, un príncipe con demasiado poder pero con tendencias sumisas, necesita un amo que lo ayude a canalizar su magia o lo va a destruir, trama simple y típica.
El libro no pierde el tiempo en presentaciones, te dice solo lo estrictamente necesario para saber quien es quien. Chalice, el príncipe poderoso, Terrin, el emperador que es su nuevo amo. Se conocen, el emperador queda encantado a primera vista y voilá ya están juntos y se aman.
Reconozco que el libro es más romántico de lo que esperaba para una serie llamada "sumisos planetarios" y agradezco que no hayan incluido abuso excesivo o el forzado cliché de sentirse traicionado y o buscarse en meses, si existe un malentendido casi al final, pero por una vez se resuelve rápido y hablando.
Disfruto una buena escena explícita tanto como cualquier otro, pero las descripciones no son particularmente buenas o sugerentes, por lo que por ese lado no me atrapó realmente. No es terrible y se deja leer, de nuevo, es justo lo que promete, pero o es mi tipo correcto de erotismo.
Los personajes no tienen mucha personalidad o al menos no una claramente definida, son bastante volubles. Varias cosas pasan sin explicación o pistas, solo pasan, otras son terriblemente convenientes, por ejemplo, Chalice solo conoce gente de buen corazón que quieren ayudarlo y no intentan aprovecharse de él. Literal sale buscando un amo, encuentra al amo ideal y básicamente se casan, sin nada en medio.
Es una lectura rápida, lo termine en una sentada, no es particularmente bueno, pero te mantiene entretenido. Las escenas de sexo son relativamente explícitas pero no en exceso así que no es algo particularmente erótico. Son solo como 100 páginas así que realmente no requirió mucho tiempo o esfuerzo.
Eso sí, las descripciones de los personajes son muy vagas, el más descrito es Chalice y aun así solo sé que es hermoso, pelirrojo, cabello largo y ojos violetas con dorado.
El libro no pierde el tiempo en presentaciones, te dice solo lo estrictamente necesario para saber quien es quien. Chalice, el príncipe poderoso, Terrin, el emperador que es su nuevo amo. Se conocen, el emperador queda encantado a primera vista y voilá ya están juntos y se aman.
Reconozco que el libro es más romántico de lo que esperaba para una serie llamada "sumisos planetarios" y agradezco que no hayan incluido abuso excesivo o el forzado cliché de sentirse traicionado y o buscarse en meses, si existe un malentendido casi al final, pero por una vez se resuelve rápido y hablando.
Disfruto una buena escena explícita tanto como cualquier otro, pero las descripciones no son particularmente buenas o sugerentes, por lo que por ese lado no me atrapó realmente. No es terrible y se deja leer, de nuevo, es justo lo que promete, pero o es mi tipo correcto de erotismo.
Los personajes no tienen mucha personalidad o al menos no una claramente definida, son bastante volubles. Varias cosas pasan sin explicación o pistas, solo pasan, otras son terriblemente convenientes, por ejemplo, Chalice solo conoce gente de buen corazón que quieren ayudarlo y no intentan aprovecharse de él. Literal sale buscando un amo, encuentra al amo ideal y básicamente se casan, sin nada en medio.
Es una lectura rápida, lo termine en una sentada, no es particularmente bueno, pero te mantiene entretenido. Las escenas de sexo son relativamente explícitas pero no en exceso así que no es algo particularmente erótico. Son solo como 100 páginas así que realmente no requirió mucho tiempo o esfuerzo.
Eso sí, las descripciones de los personajes son muy vagas, el más descrito es Chalice y aun así solo sé que es hermoso, pelirrojo, cabello largo y ojos violetas con dorado.
April 12, 2020
The story was terribly written, too much details at one moment and too rushed at the next. The characters were unlikable (except for old servant and female diplomat probably but they were so secondary characters that they weremore like tertiary). The story had good premise but details and execution s*cked denying human logic and common sense.
June 1, 2019
If you are looking for a BDSM story, this one is not for you. The "Dom" Terrin and the "Sub" Chalice struck me as more like two people playing at dominance and submission. There is a lot of talk about who is the master and who is the pet. Also, Terrin would have Chalice kneel on a cushion next to his chair, but that was pretty much the extent of it. That being said, if you are not expecting a true BDSM story and just want a light read about two hot men getting together and falling in love with a very light BDSM theme than you might enjoy this book also.
June 1, 2019
If you are looking for a BDSM story, this one is not for you. The "Dom" Terrin and the "Sub" Chalice struck me as more like two people playing at dominance and submission. There is a lot of talk about who is the master and who is the pet. Also, Terrin would have Chalice kneel on a cushion next to his chair, but that was pretty much the extent of it. That being said, if you are not expecting a true BDSM story and just want a light read about two hot men getting together and falling in love with a very light BDSM theme than you might enjoy this book also.
January 22, 2020
supposedly bdsm, but really the two MCs did not act like it besides making Chalice kneel and Challice calling Terring "Master"... There was no romance, no feelings, the magic part also wasn't very elaborate, and the story wasn't any thrilling. Overall: short and boring. nothing to write home about.
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