Sodomite

Lethe. Æther. Chaos #1

by Arden Aoide

My name is Ezra Vasher.
And I'm the worst kind of sinner.
Pray for me.

This is going to hurt. And I’m sorry, but it needs to.

We know so little of love. We place it safe in our palms, away from the eyes of everyone else. We consult it briefly when a child is born, but squeeze it tighter in our fists to hide it from onlookers.

Hate, we open our fists for. We insult and physically harm without thought. We turn into generous creatures, giving of ourselves far more than we might have had we just known love. We change the very definitions of love and hate when we don’t want to face our own sins. Of which we have many. But we’re allowed to keep those to ourselves.

This is the story of Ezra Vasher. He loved passionately. Instinctively.

It didn’t matter. We need to remember. We need not forget.

By the end, what color will your heart be?

Very adult themes.

Set in secessionist Texas.

200 pages, ebook

First published July 30, 2015

About the author

Sign up for the newsletter here: http://ardenaoide.com/connect/

Arden Aoide lives in San Antonio, Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and three cats. Turn ons include men who cry during sex, long walks on the beach, and talking about herself in the third person. Turn offs include mean people and trying to figure out how to write an interesting author bio.

She doesn't write about the typical men you normally read about in erotic romance novels. She likes her men brainy and just this side of manic.

She's an introvert, she loves coffee, Internet, British television, and pot stickers. And pie. She loves pie.

Reviews

[Yahaira · Rating 5 out of 5]

****4.5 Oh Ezra Stars****

Arden has become a Must Read/1-Click author for me. Never thought I liked reading dystopian but after reading Sins of Lethe I can't help but want more of this world she's created. It is NOT for the weak minded. Allow anything and everything to be processed in your little brains.

Google Sodomite. That's exactly what you're getting.

Highly recommend Arden Aiode to readers who want something new and fresh with a little side of kink and sin. There are times you may even love her villains. Except James Agnes. I still don't know how, but hey, we are all different. Maybe you like psycho Book BFs.

Who or what the hell is Texas Truth and where can I find him/it? Those are some powerful words.

You don't like the talk of church, homosexuality, ownership, power, stay away. It's clearly not for you. It's sinfully delightful and PERFECT just enough for me. Happy Readings!!


*An arc was received by the author in exchange for an honest opinion.*

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

The more I've thought about it, and this IS a book you will continue to think about, the more I realized it deserved that extra half star to bring it up to 5. It's stayed on my mind for the past couple of days and will most likely continue to do so. I've even had to go back and re-read parts of it just to ponder it's meaning a little bit more.

When I first heard of this book I thought it was going to just be a hot and dirty book filled with sex. I don't know why, I didn't know anything but the title. There's some pretty hot sex, don't worry...but it's so much more than that. This book, underneath the surface of a story set in a future I hope we never encounter, is one of the most philosophically, morally and religiously challenging books about homosexuality I've ever had the honor of reading.

It's a wake up call for all of the right-winged conservatives who think they know God's heart and have the ability and the right to judge others on their own interpretation of ancient documents. As well as the rest of us that we can't just sit by and allow them to spread hatred and bigotry without doing our best to stop it. The setting is in a fantasy future, but it's all too real of a possibility if our culture doesn't make some drastic changes. This book begins sometime after the year 2031 in Texas, which has seceded from the Union and has it's own set of laws and doctrines it follows. Acting out on one's homosexual feelings is forbidden. Marriages are arranged before birth in order to better the family business. Sex can be enjoyed by men, by women are meant to just take what they're given and not a thought is given towards what they may enjoy or want. Those are just a couple of the messed up ways this society lives.

Ezra knows he's different. He may not be sexually attracted to women, but he cares for them and can't stand the thought of ever doing anything to one that would hurt them or that they didn't want. He's struggling with why the fact that he loves a man (even though he's kept it a secret) means that he must be sick and degraded, when in his opinion the way men treat women is sick and degraded. How can love in any pure form be wrong? Either God made him just the way he is supposed to be, or there isn't a God at all.

Ezra asks the very valid question- if God had something to say to us today, how would he do it? Would there be some kind of sign? Would he send Jesus back? And if he did, who would it be, what would he be like? He says, "I-It could be a mundane, ignored thing...A woman called Mary births a baby and he's just...good. Everyone can see it. He speaks of the things Jesus did, but he doesn't perform miracles, or ones you might consider to be. He might change a heart, just one, and it'll be like a chain reaction-"

Ezra doesn't get a happy ending. He's never loved and accepted by his friends or family. The man he loves never returns his feelings. No one ever tells him that he's exactly who God wants him to be and that love is all that truly matters, whether it's for a man or a woman. Everything about his life breaks my heart. And you know what's even more heartbreaking? All of those facts about Ezra's life are also facts for way too many people even here in the United States of 2015.

The end shows us that possibly Ezra was the the one to change just one heart, and that led to many hearts changing. But even so, my own heart stays broken for Ezra. He never got the love and goodness he gave out and deserved in return. I can't help but wonder how many people will read this story and find it too similar to their own. Sure, the setting is a little extreme compared to ours but people's souls are the still the same.

I don't want to give away the actual story line or the ending, but I will say that I hope we, as a society, do the right thing and make the right changes before something as drastic as what happens in this book finally forces us to face up to ourselves. There's no need for it to get that far, we KNOW how bad things can get so why allow them to keep heading that way?

[Heather / Obsessed With Myshelf · Rating 1 out of 5]

I obviously didn't like this book. Let's first be clear that this book is not a romance. That's not why I didn't liked it, but I believed it to be a romance when I picked it up, and therefore that's what I was expecting. NOT a romance. There is not an HEA. There is the opposite of an HEA if I've ever read one.

If I skip over the romance issue for a minute and just focus on the story like it's a work of literary fiction, I still sadly did not enjoy it. The Priest in this story commits sins for which I cannot forgive and had I known of his predilections prior to entering the story, I wouldn't have read it. I'm all for taboo, but when you start counting ages, this book crosses a line that I wasn't willing to follow. I understand that it's a dystopian world, yet that didn't make it better for me.

I also had an issue with the writing style, as I could not figure out what was going on for the first maybe 25% of the book. I wished that the dytopian world was explained more clearly up front so I wasn't struggling on the back end. It may have been purposefully vague on some of the details, but it just didn't work for me.

I appreciated the message that the book was intending to convey, but I really disliked the presentation. I kept wondering what the point of certain scenes were - what did each scene do to push the story forward? And when the story goes crazy at the end, I couldn't understand what the point of ANY of it was. Maybe I just don't get it. Maybe it's just not for me. :/

[I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review]

[Linathebookaddict · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. This was...I don't even have proper words to describe this. A sad, yet at the same time engaging fairytale, representing a bleak future and a dark world.
Unique writing style that had me glued to my e-reader. Finished it in one sitting.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Adriane Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was not what I was expecting, but so much more!! The writing is flawless and thought-provoking, the love story is taboo and sensual and passionate and heartbreaking. The end threw me off the deep end, I could have kept reading about these characters forever!
I am an official half crazed stalker super fan over this author!!

[Arden Aoide · Rating 5 out of 5]

Butts.
And sex.
But in the same word.

[Lynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

My sister and blog partner Jen sent a picture to me earlier and it couldn't be any truer. After finishing this story it described perfectly how my poor little brain and heart was feeling. I was feeling hurt, broken and sadness. Yeah that’s pretty much, in a nutshell, what you are going to be feeling by the end. I mean damn, it was spelled out for me blatantly and did I listen…nooo. I just had to stick my nose into this engaging, thought provoking and tragic story of Ezra Vasher. A boy who, like all of us, just simply want to be loved.

Ok picture this. It’s Texas 2030s. Texas has become it’s own country apart from the United States. It has it’s own rules, own ideas for what the Texans should be like. Young woman have their husband’s handpicked by the age of 14. And they are to be married by the time she is 16. The woman is the mother, caretaker of her family and the husband go out to support their family financial. The future sounds fun doesn’t it? In a small town in Texas the story focuses on Ezra. He is a young boy about 16, who already has his life picked out for him. Ezra is accepting of it, but knows this is not the life chosen for him. He isn’t the same as everyone. He doesn’t “fit in”. Not even with his own family. See, Ezra has an attraction towards Pastor Lazarus Cabot, another man. His attraction is heavy and dangerous because he knows this goes against the laws of Texas. But with love, shouldn’t we fight for it like we were taught all those years ago? Stand up to society rules and stand proud for what we believe in? Or will the love we are fighting for even be worth it when it could lead to the biggest betrayal of them all?

I hated and loved this book. I hated it because it shows you how ugly some people truly are and how ugly society can really be. I loved this book because the author with out a doubt made you fall in love with Ezra. So sweet of kid that I was rooting for his happiness and knowing in the back of my head, there wasn’t going to be. Ezra is so innocent when he is trying to understand his feelings for Pastor Lazarus. You can’t help but want to put your arms through the kindle and just hold him. Believe me I tried. I’m so new to this author’s work and this series (can completely be read as a standalone) I didn’t know what the heck I was getting with her. Do I want to sit and devour her other books? Absolutely! As heavy and as heartbreaking as this book was I would definitely read more of her work.

So basically, in all be prepared for the end. It’s sad that in Aoide future book world we are set back to a time and place of ugliness even though this is the future. We as a society need to right our wrongs. Because who knows what our world would look like in the future. Aoide gives you so much to think about with this book. A beautiful and tragic story that gives you nothing but chills. Out of a 5. I’m giving this a 4.5. Definitely would read more work from this author again.

[Christy Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in the Texas of Sins of Lethe, Sodomite is a novella that tells the story of Ezra Vasher, a boy of 18 who is being counseled with regard to his arranged marriage to Naomi, which is to take place in two years. When Ezra is 20, and Naomi is 16.

Ezra finds himself growing attracted to Pastor Cabot, the man set to school him on what is expected of Ezra after he marries. He finds himself yearning for a simple touch from the pastor. As their lessons turn toward those of the marriage bed, of being pleased, of a husband pleasing his wife – it becomes clear that the attraction is mutual.

Though the stories of Sins of Lethe are dark, I cannot help but find them interesting and thought provoking reads. A time where Texas is its own country, with their own “Big Brother” type government who have essentially put women back in time well over hundreds of years? Hard to imagine. But it comes to life in these stories in an entertaining way.

I don’t know that I would recommend these to readers of the typical romance stories. More of those looking for an interesting, dark, maybe dystopian type read. Personally, I find myself thoroughly entertained with each new chapter I read as to the Texas of Arden Aoide’s future.

[Bernice Cook · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am torn with this story. Sodomite can be read as a stand alone story but it is best appreciated read within the structure of the Sins of Lethe series. It's the story of Ezra Vasher, a homosexual young man betrothed to a girl he is still yet to meet. As a part of Ezra's preparation for marriage his father engages the local minister to council Ezra.
Ezra's story is one of love, misunderstanding and betrayal. It's so much more than a sexy hot m/m. It is intelligently written, compelling and a bit dystopian. It's not everyone's cup of tea so if you prefer a light HEA type of book, this maybe too much for you to deal with. However, if you're the type to enjoy a dark romance that pushes the boundaries then Sins of Lethe and Sodimite is going to hook you in.

[Miri · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 desperate need to kill stars. Lol

Ezra ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[Mazmum · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I am new to Arden Aoide so not sure if I would have enjoyed reading this book more as part of the series. The authors writing is very good, but the story is one that is hugely uncomfortable to read.

Not because the lead protagenist is gay, but because in this future, the future appears to be bleak, no matter who you are in this society. So please don't expect a light and fluffy ended for this tale, you won't get one. I was left feeling hugely down after reading this novella and despairing over the lack of empathy and compassion in this new world.

I'm not sure enjoyable is the right phrase for such a depressing tome, but if you can handle something truly dark, with no shades of light, then I recommend picking up this work.

[Janice Somers · Rating 4 out of 5]

. At first read, it appears to be past history, but it is actually 100 plus years in the future.
Texas has succeeded from the United States and become a nation in itself. They have reverted to a time where women are considered chattel. They are strategically betrothed before birth to male heirs and their children before their birth. The men marry by the age of 20 and the girls by 16. This is the way to keep lines from intersecting and to gain allies. The people are deeply enthralled in religion with no deviations. The women are not allowed to work outside of the home and the men work the land.

The story is one that is about a young man, Ezra, who is the heir to a winery and has no interest in doing anything else. He is 18, betrothed to a girl who is 14. They have 2 years until the marriage ceremony. He has no desire to be married, have children, he has never met her and won’t until the veil has been lifted. His parents are secretive and won’t let him see his only sister, who is married and lives in another village. He doesn’t understand why.

Ezra struggles with his urges and the one he desires is the problem. He doesn’t want to go against nature or
God. To do that would mean there was no God and he wants to believe that he was created as he was meant to be.

All betrothed men are to be instructed by the Pastor in how not to allow the Devil and temptation in. He is to do this on an individual basis. He is drawn to the Pastor, when listening to sermons and when praying he yearns for even a simple touch from him. Ezra is placed at the manipulation and domination of the Pastor.

This is the first book I have read by this author and this is part of a series. She drew me into her story after I gave her the chance and I became so entranced to the end. The story line is Ezra’s voice until approximately 67% and then changes to another voice. I am very glad that I stuck with reading and didn’t give up as I ended up being so drawn to Ezra and his plight to find himself.
Give this story a chance and you will not regret it. It is a dark story.

[Jeneane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arden Aoide does such an amazing job of writing you get sucked into her books. You feel as if you are in the story and are watching what's happening. Sodomite takes place in the future and this future is a scary place. Texas has succeeded from the Untied States and has become a dystopia society. Women are only to be used for procreationand the bible is heavily used as a means to keep people in line. If you have sinful thoughts you will be punished. Ezra Vasher has feelings that are sinful. He tries to keep them to himself but his family and Pastor know. He's set to take ver his family's vineyard and was set to marry a girl before they both were even conceived. His secret could get him tortured and killed. You see he's got feeling towards the same sex especially his Pastor Lazarus. Pastor Lazarus is one sick evil man. This society takes what the bible says and twists it to what they want. It's used as a tool to oppress and demean the citizens of Texas. Poor Ezra never stands a chance once his feelings come to light about Pastor Lazarus. Pastor Lazarus knows how to manipulate the people around him in order to keep his secrets from coming to light. The reader can't help but feel for poor Ezra because in this Texas he never stood a chance at happiness or living a fulfilling life. This story is so beautifully written and full of shocking oppressive things you can't help but cry and scream at the story. The real scary thing is Arden Aoide is so good at weaving her story line you could picture this happening in the future. This story is part of her Sins of Lethe series and can be read as a standalone but I highly reccomend reading the others

[Georgina Parkin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC for an honest review.
4.5 stars.

Don't read this expecting a happy ending, read this expecting the truth. I like dystopian reads. Stories of what will happen soon when there's more wars and countries rebel within themselves. I feel that you never see anything other than dystopian worlds because of government related wars. This was religion.

It felt like I was reading about a cult. It was very old school in terms of beliefs in Christianity (sodomy is a sin, women aren't to receive pleasure, married off women at fourteen etc) and somehow I still found it to be possible. Nothing was ridiculous, in fact, everything that's happened has happened in the history of people. These people have definitely reverted to barbaric ways of life.

This won't be for everyone, there's a lot of talk of belief and personal growth and exploration of lust and stuff and there's some graphic moments that would definitely warrant a trigger warning. But it was a great bloody book.

[Epicbookaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

What to say about this novella..the entire “Sins of Lethe” series has been one hell of a ride. To say it is uncomfortable at times is an understatement but if you can look beyond what our society deems “acceptable” and wrap your mind around this futurist dystopian world than Arden has created you will discover so many of the layers that make up the human condition. This novella was no different. In one sitting this story swept me into the innocent discovery of love/lust to betrayal, to evil wrapped in the guise of love and ultimately the strength of conviction. Arden continues to deliver an eloquent writing style that creates moments you can feel, characters that become part of you and stories that take you outside of the box. Can’t wait for the next installment. Well done!

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like your m/m stories with a side of fluff and a HEA this story is not for you. However, if you enjoy a thought provoking read that will leave you uncomfortable and asking questions long after you have read the final page this is a must read. I wasn't sure exactly what I would find when I began this story because I had not previously read anything else from the series. I knew it would be dark, but it was so much more compelling than I was expecting. The dystopian world the story takes place in is fascinating and the characters are immediately gripping. The story stayed with my after I was finished reading. I received an arc originally, but enjoyed it so much I purchased my own copy. I'll be buying the other books in this series as well.

[JC (Jen) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another beautifully, well written book from Arden! Arden’s books are always thought provoking and meticulously written, but so easy to read. This book grabbed me from the start and and held me in until the end. Long after you finish one of Arden’s books you still find yourself thinking about them, they truly stick with you, they hold so much meaning and Sodomite is no different. I am not normally a M/M reader (I don’t hate them, just not my “go to” type of book), but this book was so much more than that. Arden’s books are different than your typical reads and I love that! You never know what’s coming and you always want more.

[Leah Keys · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arden has done it again... She wrote another fabulous book that sucked me in and kept me reading until the very end. I love how her writing is so intriguing and full of unexpected twists and turns. Always pushing the envelope but doing it in such a fascinating way that you almost don’t realize until the books is finished. She always leaves me at the end of a book with thoughts and feelings that I have to come to terms with. Some people may struggle with this book due to the M/M sex and relationship dynamics but it will definitely open your eyes and make you question yourself and your beliefs. Awesome job Arden!

[Lea Blottiaux · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very Sad

Through the book, I felt like like the people of Texas were so repressed. Certainly the women were. I had such a fear for Ezra . I felt that Pastor Lazarus Cabot abused Ezra. He was still a boy in many ways. He loved Lazarus and Lazarus used him for his own needs. In my opinion Lazarus never really cared about Ezra, else he couldn't have thrown him to the wolves. When he branded Ezra out of jealousy and threw him out naked for everyone to see, he sealed his fate, and the fate of others like him. Very sad.

[Lynde Shaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. That was extremely uncomfortable. And I'm not talking about the storyline being about sodomy between 2 men. I'm talking about the uncomfortableness of the evil that lives in people. Love, lust, hate, death. What I thought was, if not a love story, then at least a lust story, turned into something more and yet, something less. The outcome of the story and the segue into Sins of Lethe was brilliant. Heartbreakingly brilliant. And uncomfortable.

[Oredeen (honest reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. This was not quite what I expected. I was expecting this to be over a longer period of time and just so much more of story. How ever, I was not disappointed, at all. I was captivated from the beginning, and the ending shattered me. I'm not sure if this book was shorter or I truly was so consumed that I finished it very quickly, cause I did. The style of writing was a little different in some parts but not hard to follow. Great, steamy m/m, truly makes you think! Bravo!

[Monique Tinline]

DNF - I must have a read a totally different book to everyone else

[Marika · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you don't want to hurt someone badly after reading this story you either have a problem or you read a different book..just saying!
Love Ezra..such a good soul!

[Chrissy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well it was not my cup of tea and the writing style was a little hard to follow, not my favorite.