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The Machinery Of Desire #1
Acquired Possession
The night Emery is taken she is reading emails in bed.
Aerthe, another world, the world of the Swathe, the moving cities of the Mekkers.
Blind on arrival and naked. No one touches her until the Mekkers decide humans aren’t people, and therefore can be bought and traded. The journey through the portal alters humans, shines them all pretty. Humans glimmer.
Emery’s bright hair and nails will forever mark her as alien. Her freedom is gone. Though her sight returns, she becomes a possession of House Oren.
But someone else wants to own her. The House Master, Mako, a man who uses whips and canes like most people use a knife - daily, with efficiency and casualness.
She vows to never give in.
Banned from marrying. Banned from having playing too intimately with the house possessions, Mako holds himself back.
He mustn’t. Shouldn’t. His job is to punish, to control, to keep the House in order.
But when Emery runs and takes with her a most dangerous war machine, one not seen since the Last Days of the War… Mako is the man they turn to.
To chase her down. To bring her back, lamed, dead, or mostly alive.
Warning: This is a dark kinky story. If you don't understand where dark stories can go, this might not be for you.
Aerthe, another world, the world of the Swathe, the moving cities of the Mekkers.
Blind on arrival and naked. No one touches her until the Mekkers decide humans aren’t people, and therefore can be bought and traded. The journey through the portal alters humans, shines them all pretty. Humans glimmer.
Emery’s bright hair and nails will forever mark her as alien. Her freedom is gone. Though her sight returns, she becomes a possession of House Oren.
But someone else wants to own her. The House Master, Mako, a man who uses whips and canes like most people use a knife - daily, with efficiency and casualness.
She vows to never give in.
Banned from marrying. Banned from having playing too intimately with the house possessions, Mako holds himself back.
He mustn’t. Shouldn’t. His job is to punish, to control, to keep the House in order.
But when Emery runs and takes with her a most dangerous war machine, one not seen since the Last Days of the War… Mako is the man they turn to.
To chase her down. To bring her back, lamed, dead, or mostly alive.
Warning: This is a dark kinky story. If you don't understand where dark stories can go, this might not be for you.
ebook
First published July 26, 2017
353 people are currently reading
534 people want to read
About the author
Cari Silverwood
100 books1,222 followersCari Silverwood lives in Australia and is a New York Times bestselling writer of kinky darkness or sometimes dark kinkiness, depending on her moods and the amount of time she's spent staring into the night.
Check out this page to avoid falling into the wrong dark and shocking book, because she really does write some weird stories: www.carisilverwood.net/my-books-liste...
Sign up to get sales and new releases plus various odd stuff she puts into it (and a free welcome book) at www.carisilverwood.net/
You can reach Cari at carisilverwood1@gmail.com
or
on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cari.silverwood
Check out this page to avoid falling into the wrong dark and shocking book, because she really does write some weird stories: www.carisilverwood.net/my-books-liste...
Sign up to get sales and new releases plus various odd stuff she puts into it (and a free welcome book) at www.carisilverwood.net/
You can reach Cari at carisilverwood1@gmail.com
or
on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cari.silverwood
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
January 19, 2018
3.5 Stars
This was a cool dystopian/captivity/PNR-ish/smut-fest buffet of a book.
Since I love all of the above, I was either predisposed to like it...or predestined to be harsher critic. Either way though, the chips fell where they fell and I had fun with this one.
I think the world was interesting - although the world-building was a mite underdeveloped - and the characters were good - although they too could have been a little more fleshed out. I think I would have enjoyed this more had some of the "rules" and truths of the world been introduced a littler earlier than they were.
Regardless, I enjoyed this enough to want to pick up book two as well as check out more from this new-to-me-author.
This was a cool dystopian/captivity/PNR-ish/smut-fest buffet of a book.
Since I love all of the above, I was either predisposed to like it...or predestined to be harsher critic. Either way though, the chips fell where they fell and I had fun with this one.
I think the world was interesting - although the world-building was a mite underdeveloped - and the characters were good - although they too could have been a little more fleshed out. I think I would have enjoyed this more had some of the "rules" and truths of the world been introduced a littler earlier than they were.
Regardless, I enjoyed this enough to want to pick up book two as well as check out more from this new-to-me-author.
July 10, 2017
Rating:
Five Stars
Genres:
The main genre is science fiction with touches of paranormal, however it does also have elements of dystopian & steampunk. Very much an alternate world type of setting.
The book is also erotic, specifically to dark erotica and bdsm content. I think for most readers the severity of the dark erotica & bdsm content will probably range from light to moderate. Maybe too heavy for some, if erotic punishment & dub/non-con elements are not your cuppa.
Overall:
I love this world the author built! It engaged my mind from start to finish.
I really enjoyed that not all the facts & rules of this world are shown upfront (no info dump). The author takes the readers on a journey showing this world piece by piece, and the rules of it are slowly unraveled throughout.
The erotic content in the story is very good, and there is some definite on page sexy time. However, to me, the primary focus felt like it was more on the characters & the story being told. Basically, more story than sex (IMO).
Lastly, this book completely works as a standalone & is the first in a new series (not a spinoff). Also, I got the impression that each book in this series will feature a different couple.
Other:
Additional info & pre-order links can be found on
❥ CGSR Blog.
Copy provided by author in exchange for my honest opinion. A positive rating/review was not required or requested. Review is on the ARC version.
April 11, 2024
ETA - Reread Aug 2023 for DE Buddy Read.
I've read one other book by Cari Silverwood, but written under the name Wren Tirrell. Social media made me aware of this book and when I read the blurb I thought that it sounded really interesting.
I was a little worried that it might be one of those 'instantly in love with the alien' books OR might be too dark for my taste. So I did what any self-respecting book whore would and used the 'send me a sample' option. OK, the book doesn't cost a huge amount of money but none of us likes to waste what money we have. Anyway, as soon as I reached the end of said sample I immediately, and without any shadow of doubt nor hesitation, hit the 'buy now' button on my Kindle.
Then I sat and read the whole book in one sitting.
Firstly it didn't feel that dark of a read, possibly because of the sci-fi/alien world aspect of the book. There was nowhere near as much 'punishment' or cruelty as I expected and instead I found this to be a very erotic but also action-packed read.
Emery came across as a tough cookie, with plenty of spirit and determination, I loved her character. Mako was also incredibly well written, his internal musings allowed us to see that he was a fairly decent 'man', despite his sadistic leanings. We only learn some very important facts about the Strathe, the Mekkers and Aerthe as we progress further into the story, but this is also very necessary for the plot to work.
This isn't a conventional romance in any sense of the word, and not just because of it being set on an alien planet. But the chemistry and the connection between Emery and Mako is believable and works, and so much of it is in the small kindnesses that Mako shows to Emery (even when he doesn't always mean to).
This book had me gripped from start to finish, it even had me fall in love with a small mechanical child's toy! The writing is excellent, the plot is literally out of this world and not your typical 'snatched by the alien' story, the pace kept me turning pages as quick as I could and the whole book was just so easy to read.
I'm already pre-ordering Claimed Possession (The Machinery of Desire #2).
I've read one other book by Cari Silverwood, but written under the name Wren Tirrell. Social media made me aware of this book and when I read the blurb I thought that it sounded really interesting.
I was a little worried that it might be one of those 'instantly in love with the alien' books OR might be too dark for my taste. So I did what any self-respecting book whore would and used the 'send me a sample' option. OK, the book doesn't cost a huge amount of money but none of us likes to waste what money we have. Anyway, as soon as I reached the end of said sample I immediately, and without any shadow of doubt nor hesitation, hit the 'buy now' button on my Kindle.
Then I sat and read the whole book in one sitting.
Firstly it didn't feel that dark of a read, possibly because of the sci-fi/alien world aspect of the book. There was nowhere near as much 'punishment' or cruelty as I expected and instead I found this to be a very erotic but also action-packed read.
Emery came across as a tough cookie, with plenty of spirit and determination, I loved her character. Mako was also incredibly well written, his internal musings allowed us to see that he was a fairly decent 'man', despite his sadistic leanings. We only learn some very important facts about the Strathe, the Mekkers and Aerthe as we progress further into the story, but this is also very necessary for the plot to work.
This isn't a conventional romance in any sense of the word, and not just because of it being set on an alien planet. But the chemistry and the connection between Emery and Mako is believable and works, and so much of it is in the small kindnesses that Mako shows to Emery (even when he doesn't always mean to).
This book had me gripped from start to finish, it even had me fall in love with a small mechanical child's toy! The writing is excellent, the plot is literally out of this world and not your typical 'snatched by the alien' story, the pace kept me turning pages as quick as I could and the whole book was just so easy to read.
I'm already pre-ordering Claimed Possession (The Machinery of Desire #2).
July 19, 2017
I’m going to try to review Cari Silverwood’s new release, Acquired Possession, without fangirling so hard that I embarrass myself. As a lover of dark erotica, dubcon/non-con, BDSM, and fantasy, Ms. Silverwood has rocked my world on quite a few occasions. She’s always up for trying new things, but each story has that classic undertone that I recognize as her unique voice and style. Acquired Possession is a sci-fi, slave capture fantasy with dark elements and BDSM. Human becomes alien when Emery is thrust unexpectedly through a portal on earth into a world that was, for me, reminiscent of Star Wars. There’s a mix of old and new…big mechanized traveling robots that house thousands of beings and droid like robots that possess intelligence, all with an old world, dusty feel. That dichotomy made the world feel less sci-fi and more fantasy with a dark twist. Once in her new world, Emery learns that humans are no more than slaves to be sold, possessed, and toyed with. They also possess blood that is of great value. Emery also discovers that she will be Slave 12 of a House run by House Master Mako. Mako is a hard and unforgiving Master, but soon finds himself more than physically attracted to his new slave. She reminds him of a painful loss, but is even more tempting for it. Emery doesn’t want to enjoy the punishments she earns through her misbehavior, but she can’t help herself. She learns to crave Mako’s touch, making it more difficult when she tries to make her grand escape.
If you’re scared of sci-fi, don’t be! While Acquired Possession makes heavy use of “otherworld” elements, this is ultimately a story of a woman coming to terms with her desire to be owned by a strong and capable Master. That means that yes, you should enjoy BDSM. Also, you should enjoy the darker side of kink. We aren’t on earth and the rules of appropriate sexual conduct don’t apply. The story line enters some territory of non-consent and heavier elements of “play.” Expect needles, knives, electricity. And expect to see sex not always used for pleasure. It’s all very, very hot. This being Cari Silverwood, also expect to get deep in the characters’ heads to explore their inner desires and fears. Emery is a strong woman who doesn’t back down when she’s scared. She sees what Mako does to her, but in the end, even as slave, she makes him work to earn the title of Master over her. Mako loves to dole out pain, but he has a wonderfully tender side that I really loved. I am not usually into soft and tender moments in BDSM (the loving Dom is sometimes a bit cliché for me), but Ms. Silverwood managed to give Emery and Mako a connection that truly touched me and brought me to tears. There is a decent amount of action and the plot never lags. I was sad to see their story end! I know that the next installment will focus on another couple, but I’d love to see Emery and Mako’s story continue, to see them in action as Master and slave. I highly recommend Acquired Possession, not only for its kinky goodness, but for its great storytelling.
If you’re scared of sci-fi, don’t be! While Acquired Possession makes heavy use of “otherworld” elements, this is ultimately a story of a woman coming to terms with her desire to be owned by a strong and capable Master. That means that yes, you should enjoy BDSM. Also, you should enjoy the darker side of kink. We aren’t on earth and the rules of appropriate sexual conduct don’t apply. The story line enters some territory of non-consent and heavier elements of “play.” Expect needles, knives, electricity. And expect to see sex not always used for pleasure. It’s all very, very hot. This being Cari Silverwood, also expect to get deep in the characters’ heads to explore their inner desires and fears. Emery is a strong woman who doesn’t back down when she’s scared. She sees what Mako does to her, but in the end, even as slave, she makes him work to earn the title of Master over her. Mako loves to dole out pain, but he has a wonderfully tender side that I really loved. I am not usually into soft and tender moments in BDSM (the loving Dom is sometimes a bit cliché for me), but Ms. Silverwood managed to give Emery and Mako a connection that truly touched me and brought me to tears. There is a decent amount of action and the plot never lags. I was sad to see their story end! I know that the next installment will focus on another couple, but I’d love to see Emery and Mako’s story continue, to see them in action as Master and slave. I highly recommend Acquired Possession, not only for its kinky goodness, but for its great storytelling.
July 12, 2017
With Cari,you can be sure that once you open one of her books,you're stepping into another world. One that's dark and delicious,no matter where she takes you. Emery is taken to another world,one that isn't kind to humans....Enslaved,she is to be used for her blood. Disobeying earns her punishment by the house Master,Mako. A man she's not entirely sure what to think of,let alone feel....My honest opinion? I loved,loved,loved it! Cari,you rock!
July 29, 2017
Emery was a nobody who didn't stand out in a crowd if it weren't for her blazing red hair. Just another average single working class girl looking to get ahead in the world through hard work and careful financial planning. Yet, in one day, in one instance, her life is forever changed when she falls through a portal into an alternate universe that resembles a SciFi high tech steampunk sort of world. Naked, blind, alone, Emery is now at the mercy and pleasure of the Meekers.
House Master Mako Laste, house Oren, was once an affluent decorated hero until circumstances resulted in a reverse of fame and fortune. Still, his current place in society gives him the potential to regain all that was lost. His current position gives him responsibly over Basteer's slaves, keeping them in order but with the added perk of indulging his sadistic inner core on disobedient slaves needing punishment, with only a few minor restrictions as Earth females are very valuable to their owners.
A recent acquisition, slave twelve, is proving to be more resistant to her station thus requiring more and more of Mako's special attention. Problem is slave twelve brings back memories of a lost love who was the perfect compliment to his dark core. Nobody could ever replace Sasha ... could they?
Emery can't return home but she surely can't continue to live out her life as it is. Accidentally connecting with a potential ally, Emery has a real chance of escaping. It's all dependent on if she can fully trust her new friend and avoid tipping off her masters. Yet, escaping is only the first step in navigating an alien world that puts a high value on Earth females. A value so high the Mekker hierarchy will agree to just about anything to the person blood contracted to retrieve Emery.
* * *
Warning: This book contains extreme BDSM including humiliation, D/s, sadist/masochist, impact play, needle play, dub/non consent, electro play, and public sex scenes. It is a dark fantasy read and only those who can appreciate this form of adult literature should proceed. Consider yourself warned.
A new series by a popular author of mine whose specialty is dark twisted perverted forms of erotic romance. In this series she's gone back to her steampunk origins providing a twisted Alice In Wonderland fairy tale premise. To be clear, my reference regarding twisted fairy tale is an arbitrary personal conjecture on my part, but if the shoe fits.....
The main characters premise an enemies to lovers set up. Of course that's pretty much a no brainer as Emery is a forced slave and Mako her sadistic master, by proxy. The devious manner in which the author brings the two closer and closer into realizing that while circumstances may have put them together it's not a bad thing as they come to build mutual respect, admiration, lust, and maybe more. Many times I read a dark romance questioning if a couple really works for the right reasons as not everyone is a fan of pain, humiliation, needle/wax play, and other darker levels of BDSM, especially when one of the characters starts out vanilla. Giving credit where credit is due, Ms. Silverwood accomplished this with class.
The secondary characters. I'm probably wrong but I do believe this is the first book by this author that I've read that includes a significant gay character in the story line. Ms. Silverwood, can it be that YOU are coming over to the dark side too? m-m? Be still my heart......
The cast of secondary characters includes the good, the bad, and the evil though some of those characters are vague in categorizing probably as they may factor in future installments of this series and thus have not been sufficiently fleshed out. Sira, Thyra, Ormrad, Fern, Basteer, Gio, Mammoth, JJ-mech, Aerthe, the King, Gyle, and other unnamed characters all add to the overall world building though not all in a positive way. Adding here... this author usually includes a character that I personally attach to and want to see continue on but usually doesn't ... Ms Silverwood: Mammoth, make it happen.......
My issues in this story have to do with the world building. Steampunk worlds are difficult to grasp and in this case I had more than usual difficulty myself. Idiots Guide paraphrasing: the Aerthe world (where this story takes place) is a planet that rejected the Mekkers leaving them in a sort of nomad situation to survive. Subsequently, they created massive gigantic humongous mega constantly moving city land ships to live on. There are different components to this that include how it's powered and the society at large but at the core is that this story takes place aboard the Royal Swarthe, one of five ships owned by the Mekkers. Seriously, knowing that little hint might have helped me at the start because for the first half of this story I struggled at the who/what/when/where of the world building.
In addition. The opening scene with Fern. So many many many questions arose from this scene during the course of reading this story. Many are still unresolved but mentioning them would be spoiler info so I can't. I just didn't understand Fern's role in this particular story.....
I'm a long fan of this author's works and have come to appreciate her insanely warped twisted mind when it comes to dark BDSM erotica stories. Glad she's gone back to her roots in Steampunk because there seriously aren't enough quality reads in this sub genre.
Next up in series is Claimed Possession (The Machinery of Desire #2) which has release date of Oct 11, 2017. Can't wait !!!!!!!
House Master Mako Laste, house Oren, was once an affluent decorated hero until circumstances resulted in a reverse of fame and fortune. Still, his current place in society gives him the potential to regain all that was lost. His current position gives him responsibly over Basteer's slaves, keeping them in order but with the added perk of indulging his sadistic inner core on disobedient slaves needing punishment, with only a few minor restrictions as Earth females are very valuable to their owners.
A recent acquisition, slave twelve, is proving to be more resistant to her station thus requiring more and more of Mako's special attention. Problem is slave twelve brings back memories of a lost love who was the perfect compliment to his dark core. Nobody could ever replace Sasha ... could they?
Emery can't return home but she surely can't continue to live out her life as it is. Accidentally connecting with a potential ally, Emery has a real chance of escaping. It's all dependent on if she can fully trust her new friend and avoid tipping off her masters. Yet, escaping is only the first step in navigating an alien world that puts a high value on Earth females. A value so high the Mekker hierarchy will agree to just about anything to the person blood contracted to retrieve Emery.
* * *
Warning: This book contains extreme BDSM including humiliation, D/s, sadist/masochist, impact play, needle play, dub/non consent, electro play, and public sex scenes. It is a dark fantasy read and only those who can appreciate this form of adult literature should proceed. Consider yourself warned.
A new series by a popular author of mine whose specialty is dark twisted perverted forms of erotic romance. In this series she's gone back to her steampunk origins providing a twisted Alice In Wonderland fairy tale premise. To be clear, my reference regarding twisted fairy tale is an arbitrary personal conjecture on my part, but if the shoe fits.....
The main characters premise an enemies to lovers set up. Of course that's pretty much a no brainer as Emery is a forced slave and Mako her sadistic master, by proxy. The devious manner in which the author brings the two closer and closer into realizing that while circumstances may have put them together it's not a bad thing as they come to build mutual respect, admiration, lust, and maybe more. Many times I read a dark romance questioning if a couple really works for the right reasons as not everyone is a fan of pain, humiliation, needle/wax play, and other darker levels of BDSM, especially when one of the characters starts out vanilla. Giving credit where credit is due, Ms. Silverwood accomplished this with class.
The secondary characters. I'm probably wrong but I do believe this is the first book by this author that I've read that includes a significant gay character in the story line. Ms. Silverwood, can it be that YOU are coming over to the dark side too? m-m? Be still my heart......
The cast of secondary characters includes the good, the bad, and the evil though some of those characters are vague in categorizing probably as they may factor in future installments of this series and thus have not been sufficiently fleshed out. Sira, Thyra, Ormrad, Fern, Basteer, Gio, Mammoth, JJ-mech, Aerthe, the King, Gyle, and other unnamed characters all add to the overall world building though not all in a positive way. Adding here... this author usually includes a character that I personally attach to and want to see continue on but usually doesn't ... Ms Silverwood: Mammoth, make it happen.......
My issues in this story have to do with the world building. Steampunk worlds are difficult to grasp and in this case I had more than usual difficulty myself. Idiots Guide paraphrasing: the Aerthe world (where this story takes place) is a planet that rejected the Mekkers leaving them in a sort of nomad situation to survive. Subsequently, they created massive gigantic humongous mega constantly moving city land ships to live on. There are different components to this that include how it's powered and the society at large but at the core is that this story takes place aboard the Royal Swarthe, one of five ships owned by the Mekkers. Seriously, knowing that little hint might have helped me at the start because for the first half of this story I struggled at the who/what/when/where of the world building.
In addition. The opening scene with Fern. So many many many questions arose from this scene during the course of reading this story. Many are still unresolved but mentioning them would be spoiler info so I can't. I just didn't understand Fern's role in this particular story.....
I'm a long fan of this author's works and have come to appreciate her insanely warped twisted mind when it comes to dark BDSM erotica stories. Glad she's gone back to her roots in Steampunk because there seriously aren't enough quality reads in this sub genre.
Next up in series is Claimed Possession (The Machinery of Desire #2) which has release date of Oct 11, 2017. Can't wait !!!!!!!
March 14, 2021
Humans are being involuntarily transported into the world of Aerthe where they become valuable slaves to the Mekkers -who are rulers in this planet thanks to their technical superiority- due to the H factor in their blood that Mekkers need to survive. Humans also get transformed, their hair and nails go all shiny thus signalling their identity and making them too conspicuous, they will always stand out in a world where they're coveted.
Mekkers live in huge city-ships (the Swathe) that keep moving through the land and they are always moving since Aerthe won't allow them to stay in one place for too long. Enter the Mechlings, the robotic entities that serve the many maintenance needs of the huge Swathe, I imagined them like a mixture of puppets-toys and robots, like the images pictured in the videogame Machinarium (wonderful soundtrack). Mechlings made my heart ache, they're like naive little pet robots with a nascent self-awareness, you can't help but love them.
The MCs are Mako (Master of House Oren) and Emery (human slave 12). There is a constant in Ms Silverwood's main characters that I love (the books I've read so far) and it is the sadistic-masochistic dynamic that adds a touch of darkness that enhances the eroticism in their scenes together. It is so freaking hot!
It is difficult to summarize the complexity of this universe because there are too many elements involved in the story. What absolutely enthralled me was the seamless blend of science fiction and fantasy, steampunk and the Gorean World of John Norman, it made me get soo deep into a trance-like state that I had to pace myself because I didn't want to finish the book, I wanted it to simply go on forever.
In Acquired Possession we are left with many unknown elements: is Aerthe a living entity? Is there magic involved in this world? Did the Mekkers come from a different world? If so, what's their origin? I can't wait to find out.
Like Mr Spock would say: "Fascinating!"
I highly recommend this books to both science fiction and fantasy lovers. This is a relatively dark read but on the lighter side compared to other of Ms Silverwood's books, though it still contains delightful elements such as dub-con/non-con to make it more attractive for lovers of the darker side. And needles...yes! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Mekkers live in huge city-ships (the Swathe) that keep moving through the land and they are always moving since Aerthe won't allow them to stay in one place for too long. Enter the Mechlings, the robotic entities that serve the many maintenance needs of the huge Swathe, I imagined them like a mixture of puppets-toys and robots, like the images pictured in the videogame Machinarium (wonderful soundtrack). Mechlings made my heart ache, they're like naive little pet robots with a nascent self-awareness, you can't help but love them.
The MCs are Mako (Master of House Oren) and Emery (human slave 12). There is a constant in Ms Silverwood's main characters that I love (the books I've read so far) and it is the sadistic-masochistic dynamic that adds a touch of darkness that enhances the eroticism in their scenes together. It is so freaking hot!
It is difficult to summarize the complexity of this universe because there are too many elements involved in the story. What absolutely enthralled me was the seamless blend of science fiction and fantasy, steampunk and the Gorean World of John Norman, it made me get soo deep into a trance-like state that I had to pace myself because I didn't want to finish the book, I wanted it to simply go on forever.
In Acquired Possession we are left with many unknown elements: is Aerthe a living entity? Is there magic involved in this world? Did the Mekkers come from a different world? If so, what's their origin? I can't wait to find out.
Like Mr Spock would say: "Fascinating!"
I highly recommend this books to both science fiction and fantasy lovers. This is a relatively dark read but on the lighter side compared to other of Ms Silverwood's books, though it still contains delightful elements such as dub-con/non-con to make it more attractive for lovers of the darker side. And needles...yes! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
August 29, 2023
Not Enough
Prch Amz Dec 25, 2022
Dark Erotica BR 8/19/23
Prch Amz Dec 25, 2022
Dark Erotica BR 8/19/23
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
3.5 Stars.
I'm really disappointed. I normally love Cari Silverwood's stories but this one didn't do it for me.
There just wasn't enough world and character build. I never understood the 'Why' of the Swathe. What the world was, why they were there, how they got there. The H factor problem they had was never explained not why their society was the way it was. Didn't understand the other races or anything about them that lived on the world or anything about the why's of any part of their world.
Things were very sporadically alluded to but nothing ever dived into. All this kept me from connecting to the characters.
The adult scenes were mostly hot and intense but I needed something more.
The other thing that drove me nuts was the back & forth of the characters feelings and thoughts.
I needed to know more about almost everything about this world but that didn't happen.
I don't think I'll be continuing this series.
Maybe I'll get back to it in the far away future.
Prch Amz Dec 25, 2022
Dark Erotica BR 8/19/23
Prch Amz Dec 25, 2022
Dark Erotica BR 8/19/23
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
3.5 Stars.
I'm really disappointed. I normally love Cari Silverwood's stories but this one didn't do it for me.
There just wasn't enough world and character build. I never understood the 'Why' of the Swathe. What the world was, why they were there, how they got there. The H factor problem they had was never explained not why their society was the way it was. Didn't understand the other races or anything about them that lived on the world or anything about the why's of any part of their world.
Things were very sporadically alluded to but nothing ever dived into. All this kept me from connecting to the characters.
The adult scenes were mostly hot and intense but I needed something more.
The other thing that drove me nuts was the back & forth of the characters feelings and thoughts.
I needed to know more about almost everything about this world but that didn't happen.
I don't think I'll be continuing this series.
Maybe I'll get back to it in the far away future.
July 6, 2017
Acquired Possession opens in the middle of an excellent action scene, sucking me in and never letting go.
The world building is fantastic; to use Emery's words: "World War One tech crossed with Doctor Who."
So many scenes are laced with darkly sexual undertones, occasionally outright blatantly delicious ones, and it's enthralling.
All of it.
I'm a sucker for those scenes where some may see cruelty, but others see domineering eroticism. For me, much of the story was a constantly charged, deliciously sexual feast.
The world is left open for more stories to follow, and I eagerly look forward to revisiting Aerthe.
Here are some of my favorite, non-spoilery lines:
"If this was Narnia, she wanted fawns and moralistic heroes who offered you cloaks and sips of warming beverages. Not leather cuffs threaded with steel."
"Her legs might tremble but she’d said what she had to. Maybe because she knew this would get harder to do the longer she was here. Soon, if he had his way, and she was afraid he would, she would lose her courage. She would cherish this time –a memory of when she still had balls."
"Mako raised his leg and planted his boot on her butt. Not too much pressure, just enough to let her feel the weight and maybe the grit on the sole, reminding her who had control."
"He ate up her pain. She loved the darkness in his eyes, the pleasure he gave her, the way he stopped to watch when she whimpered and wriggled."
- I voluntarily read an ARC. This in no way affected my review.
The world building is fantastic; to use Emery's words: "World War One tech crossed with Doctor Who."
So many scenes are laced with darkly sexual undertones, occasionally outright blatantly delicious ones, and it's enthralling.
All of it.
I'm a sucker for those scenes where some may see cruelty, but others see domineering eroticism. For me, much of the story was a constantly charged, deliciously sexual feast.
The world is left open for more stories to follow, and I eagerly look forward to revisiting Aerthe.
Here are some of my favorite, non-spoilery lines:
"If this was Narnia, she wanted fawns and moralistic heroes who offered you cloaks and sips of warming beverages. Not leather cuffs threaded with steel."
"Her legs might tremble but she’d said what she had to. Maybe because she knew this would get harder to do the longer she was here. Soon, if he had his way, and she was afraid he would, she would lose her courage. She would cherish this time –a memory of when she still had balls."
"Mako raised his leg and planted his boot on her butt. Not too much pressure, just enough to let her feel the weight and maybe the grit on the sole, reminding her who had control."
"He ate up her pain. She loved the darkness in his eyes, the pleasure he gave her, the way he stopped to watch when she whimpered and wriggled."
- I voluntarily read an ARC. This in no way affected my review.
April 4, 2018
What a wonderful slow burn of a book!
The characters are well-developed and feel like friends by the end of the story. The world-building is rich and imaginative. I felt transported to Aerthe and was only sorry to have to leave when the story ended. Yes, the story goes dark, but that's in no way a detraction. It goes where it needs to go - be brave and let it take you there.
Looking forward to the rest of the series!
The characters are well-developed and feel like friends by the end of the story. The world-building is rich and imaginative. I felt transported to Aerthe and was only sorry to have to leave when the story ended. Yes, the story goes dark, but that's in no way a detraction. It goes where it needs to go - be brave and let it take you there.
Looking forward to the rest of the series!
May 23, 2019
I decided to read this after a discussion about "dark" erotica. While this story has a lot of painful sex and abuse, it also has love and orgasms. If that blue vibrator ever becomes a real device - buy it! So heavy BDSM, but limited mind-fuckery.
The scifi landscape and crazy politics of Aerth are presented slowly throughout the story, and the various characters develop through interactions. While some concepts have been presented elsewhere, this particular amalgamation is part steam-punk, part Mad Max, and has AIs in various stages of awareness and insanity.
Great adventure, if twisted. I'll be reading the next one, which promises a unique perspective.
The scifi landscape and crazy politics of Aerth are presented slowly throughout the story, and the various characters develop through interactions. While some concepts have been presented elsewhere, this particular amalgamation is part steam-punk, part Mad Max, and has AIs in various stages of awareness and insanity.
Great adventure, if twisted. I'll be reading the next one, which promises a unique perspective.
July 13, 2017
Acquired Possesion will transport you to another world full of rules, mysteries, traditions and unknowns that will leave you yearning for more as you discover along with Emery. Her confusion, pain and arousal becomes your own as she is thrust into a new world as a slave under the House Master Mako.
Their relationship will push, bend and maybe break some rules as well as some readers boundaries. This is not a flowery romance, but a dark erotic tale that will continue to surprise.
This is a full story, but there's still more to discover about this world and I can't wait for it!
Their relationship will push, bend and maybe break some rules as well as some readers boundaries. This is not a flowery romance, but a dark erotic tale that will continue to surprise.
This is a full story, but there's still more to discover about this world and I can't wait for it!
July 15, 2017
This book grabbed my attention right from the start, opening in the middle of a courtroom scene that takes place in a world quite different from Earth. To be honest, I had mixed feelings about that sudden start. On the one hand I was riveted by the story from the very beginning, on the other I felt a bit lost at times. The author slowly reveals aspects of this new society as the story unfolds, although I still had some questions at the end which have me eagerly awaiting further books in the series. However, this book comes to a very satisfying conclusion.
The Mekker society is not at all nice. In fact, their combination of extreme logic, heavy emphasis on law and order, and disregard for other beings is downright chilling. It is the need for something in human blood (which other alien species have as well, but human blood is particularly rich) that causes Mekkers to capture and use a group of humans with no regard for their rights. It isn't all logic though, there is an interesting mix of magic sprinkled through the story as well.
Emery is the human heroine featured in this story and she is a very likeable character. She makes a worthy adversary for her trainer and handler, Mako, despite the fact she knows she will be punished severely for every infraction. There are a few times I think she should have considered those consequences before acting, but then the book wouldn't have been quite so exciting if she had!
This world is so creative, so aggravating, fascinating, and absolutely riveting. The punishment scenes were, well, umm.... wow! Not your everyday spanking here! There is blood play (although it isn't really play, but I couldn't think of a better term), so if that's a problem for you perhaps being forewarned will be helpful. One question I have is, why would a society that values humans so highly for a blood factor they need to survive, treat human lives in such a cavalier manner? I'd love to hear other opinions on this. ;-)
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
The Mekker society is not at all nice. In fact, their combination of extreme logic, heavy emphasis on law and order, and disregard for other beings is downright chilling. It is the need for something in human blood (which other alien species have as well, but human blood is particularly rich) that causes Mekkers to capture and use a group of humans with no regard for their rights. It isn't all logic though, there is an interesting mix of magic sprinkled through the story as well.
Emery is the human heroine featured in this story and she is a very likeable character. She makes a worthy adversary for her trainer and handler, Mako, despite the fact she knows she will be punished severely for every infraction. There are a few times I think she should have considered those consequences before acting, but then the book wouldn't have been quite so exciting if she had!
This world is so creative, so aggravating, fascinating, and absolutely riveting. The punishment scenes were, well, umm.... wow! Not your everyday spanking here! There is blood play (although it isn't really play, but I couldn't think of a better term), so if that's a problem for you perhaps being forewarned will be helpful. One question I have is, why would a society that values humans so highly for a blood factor they need to survive, treat human lives in such a cavalier manner? I'd love to hear other opinions on this. ;-)
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
August 10, 2018
Great Series Starter
This looks to be a fantastic series. I love the world Cari created here. Ember and some of her friends fall through a hole to somewhere or somewhen else. I have my theories. This place took awhile to understand. It is such an intricate and different world. In true Cari fashion, it's not real pretty, but it is fascinating. I don't normally care for sadists, but Mako was a yummy one. He wasn't overboard, beating her without reason just to cause pain. His punishments tended to be pretty imaginative, and while I would have hated them, Ember most certainly did not, and this is where I realise that I'm okay with sadism that is erotic to both parties. I think that is where so many other authors fall down. They have a sadist punishing someone in ways that are painful and that they don't enjoy. It's a turn off to me, but this was almost an art. Oh, so what was I saying before I got lost in Mako? Yeah, she fell through a portal and humans become all shiny and pretty and have just been declared slaves. They are very valuable, can't tell you why as I don't want to spoil. This world is filled with a lot of players, political intrigue, awakening sentient beings and it's just getting deeper. This author's stories tend to wring me out emotionally and intellectually. After I finish a series, I have to take a break in between and read pure fluff for my brain to recover! I mean that in the best of ways though. This is an author who is really outstanding. I think I have only not liked one of her series that I read so far and it just wasn't my cup of tea at all. But when you are reading dark thrillers/romance everyone has things that just don't do it for them. This was not one of those for me. It may be for some though. I look forward to the rest of this series.
This looks to be a fantastic series. I love the world Cari created here. Ember and some of her friends fall through a hole to somewhere or somewhen else. I have my theories. This place took awhile to understand. It is such an intricate and different world. In true Cari fashion, it's not real pretty, but it is fascinating. I don't normally care for sadists, but Mako was a yummy one. He wasn't overboard, beating her without reason just to cause pain. His punishments tended to be pretty imaginative, and while I would have hated them, Ember most certainly did not, and this is where I realise that I'm okay with sadism that is erotic to both parties. I think that is where so many other authors fall down. They have a sadist punishing someone in ways that are painful and that they don't enjoy. It's a turn off to me, but this was almost an art. Oh, so what was I saying before I got lost in Mako? Yeah, she fell through a portal and humans become all shiny and pretty and have just been declared slaves. They are very valuable, can't tell you why as I don't want to spoil. This world is filled with a lot of players, political intrigue, awakening sentient beings and it's just getting deeper. This author's stories tend to wring me out emotionally and intellectually. After I finish a series, I have to take a break in between and read pure fluff for my brain to recover! I mean that in the best of ways though. This is an author who is really outstanding. I think I have only not liked one of her series that I read so far and it just wasn't my cup of tea at all. But when you are reading dark thrillers/romance everyone has things that just don't do it for them. This was not one of those for me. It may be for some though. I look forward to the rest of this series.
August 24, 2019
Read as part of the complete Machinery Of Desire series set available from Amazon
Great science-fantasy. The world is intriguing and the characters are relatable. I want to read more, and I will be going straight on to the next book.
This fantasy is brutal in parts and could be triggering for some readers, others are in for a treat.
Great science-fantasy. The world is intriguing and the characters are relatable. I want to read more, and I will be going straight on to the next book.
This fantasy is brutal in parts and could be triggering for some readers, others are in for a treat.
July 26, 2017
Also on: ƦOSEĦARƬ
Tags: Sci-Fi | Erotica | Fantasy | Exhibitionism | BDSM | Romance | Captivity
Recommended to: Dark Fic lovers, and those that enjoy Sci-Fi erotica
Content warning: BDSM | Needleplay | Sexual activity
Note after the last page: Aww!
Emery is no longer on Earth, but the world of Aerthe, of the Swathe. A slave of the Mekkers and used for the precious Factor H her bodily fluids contain. Fortunately, (or unfortunately) 'Blood from unfucked humans is at a premium', so she's safe from that. Emery is owned by Basteer, but controlled and punished by his appointed House Master, Mako.
Mako becomes torn between the need to punish her harder, since she reminds him of his lost love, or stay away. He is the sadistic dominant with exceptional control at times. The suspense that surrounds him is constant, will he break the rules and have sex with Emery? Will he punish her too roughly? Will he abandon trying to keep her in line?... And I could ask more questions but they'd have 'Spoiler' written all over them.
Emery, aka Slave Twelve of House Oren, is a great character, so strong!
Her mind is always ticking over, always thinking of ways to escape, ways to handle each situation she's faced with. It made the ending all the sweeter. She comes full-circle, and the way she does it stays true to her character; every action has a force and thought behind it. And the wit in this gave some laugh-out-loud moments, particularly her teaching the other slaves that addressing someone as 'bastard' meant they admired them, that Mako loved it... 😹
And during a punishment: 'she couldn’t help herself –she full-on smiled. Fuck them. Pussies. How many left? Five.' Brattiness at its finest that surely has its comeuppance?
This book wasn't as dark as the Dark Hearts series, but still had the elements of heartache and sadness, positions of powerlessness, and danger. It was Romance. Sweeter! In a different way.
There's a perfect combination of character development, and plot, to drive the pace, with neither being the dominant force. They're balanced out perfectly and I found I was just as absorbed in the characters' journeys, as I was the fascinating world of Aerthe. The latter has endless possibilities for some more cracking stories, and I can't wait to read more. Sawyer (former soldier in the SAS), and amongst the captives taken with Emery, is next!
*Special mention for Mammoth and JI-mech, for being such (cute) vivid, important characters.
Unforgettable. Recommended for Dark Fic lovers, and those that enjoy erotic Sci-Fi
ƦOSEĦARƬ
Tags: Sci-Fi | Erotica | Fantasy | Exhibitionism | BDSM | Romance | Captivity
Recommended to: Dark Fic lovers, and those that enjoy Sci-Fi erotica
Content warning: BDSM | Needleplay | Sexual activity
Note after the last page: Aww!
Emery is no longer on Earth, but the world of Aerthe, of the Swathe. A slave of the Mekkers and used for the precious Factor H her bodily fluids contain. Fortunately, (or unfortunately) 'Blood from unfucked humans is at a premium', so she's safe from that. Emery is owned by Basteer, but controlled and punished by his appointed House Master, Mako.
Mako becomes torn between the need to punish her harder, since she reminds him of his lost love, or stay away. He is the sadistic dominant with exceptional control at times. The suspense that surrounds him is constant, will he break the rules and have sex with Emery? Will he punish her too roughly? Will he abandon trying to keep her in line?... And I could ask more questions but they'd have 'Spoiler' written all over them.
Emery, aka Slave Twelve of House Oren, is a great character, so strong!
Her mind is always ticking over, always thinking of ways to escape, ways to handle each situation she's faced with. It made the ending all the sweeter. She comes full-circle, and the way she does it stays true to her character; every action has a force and thought behind it. And the wit in this gave some laugh-out-loud moments, particularly her teaching the other slaves that addressing someone as 'bastard' meant they admired them, that Mako loved it... 😹
And during a punishment: 'she couldn’t help herself –she full-on smiled. Fuck them. Pussies. How many left? Five.' Brattiness at its finest that surely has its comeuppance?
This book wasn't as dark as the Dark Hearts series, but still had the elements of heartache and sadness, positions of powerlessness, and danger. It was Romance. Sweeter! In a different way.
There's a perfect combination of character development, and plot, to drive the pace, with neither being the dominant force. They're balanced out perfectly and I found I was just as absorbed in the characters' journeys, as I was the fascinating world of Aerthe. The latter has endless possibilities for some more cracking stories, and I can't wait to read more. Sawyer (former soldier in the SAS), and amongst the captives taken with Emery, is next!
*Special mention for Mammoth and JI-mech, for being such (cute) vivid, important characters.
Unforgettable. Recommended for Dark Fic lovers, and those that enjoy erotic Sci-Fi
ƦOSEĦARƬ
July 15, 2017
One of the best accolades you can give to a book is if you wish it didn't end, and by crikey I wish Acquired Possession didn't end.
I was absolutely hooked from page one. Cari's world building is first class, so believable and I feel a meld of many genres woven intricately together. Then add the great names for divisions, ships, artificial intelligence and Aerthe itself, including life on Aerthe, and boom, what a visual ship you're sailing when you devour the story. Brilliantly composed, merged seamlessly with real life, that indeed you feel you could have gone through a portal and ended up on Aerthe yourself, and then thanking all that is holy that you haven't, and that you are a mere voyeur into their world.
On top of the world building there's two brilliant characters; Mako and Emery, wow what a combination of characters! This is dark on many levels, but I felt their relationship build under the finest woven cloche, which could be described as constructed of whips, canes, clamps and blue flame, but there was a fine silk thread too. Behind their masks and duty were real feelings, and a core that made you want to root for them and completely invested in them.
I hold a soft spot for JI. Who would have thought such a creation could wend it's way into your heart and remain firmly planted, and of course Mammoth, I loved these guys!
I'd give this book a resounding six stars, dark parts and all. It definitely leaves you squirming and your own skin feeling the punishments, but ultimately satiated by the whole premise. Everything had a purpose and reason, nothing nonesensical, nothing frivilous. Just pure, clever storytelling with dark elements and I want to say romance, but it isn't really romance, but then it is too, dilemma huh lol. I wish I could go fresh into it again and linger longer within the world of Aerthe, I'll definitely be re-reading this story, many times.
I was absolutely hooked from page one. Cari's world building is first class, so believable and I feel a meld of many genres woven intricately together. Then add the great names for divisions, ships, artificial intelligence and Aerthe itself, including life on Aerthe, and boom, what a visual ship you're sailing when you devour the story. Brilliantly composed, merged seamlessly with real life, that indeed you feel you could have gone through a portal and ended up on Aerthe yourself, and then thanking all that is holy that you haven't, and that you are a mere voyeur into their world.
On top of the world building there's two brilliant characters; Mako and Emery, wow what a combination of characters! This is dark on many levels, but I felt their relationship build under the finest woven cloche, which could be described as constructed of whips, canes, clamps and blue flame, but there was a fine silk thread too. Behind their masks and duty were real feelings, and a core that made you want to root for them and completely invested in them.
I hold a soft spot for JI. Who would have thought such a creation could wend it's way into your heart and remain firmly planted, and of course Mammoth, I loved these guys!
I'd give this book a resounding six stars, dark parts and all. It definitely leaves you squirming and your own skin feeling the punishments, but ultimately satiated by the whole premise. Everything had a purpose and reason, nothing nonesensical, nothing frivilous. Just pure, clever storytelling with dark elements and I want to say romance, but it isn't really romance, but then it is too, dilemma huh lol. I wish I could go fresh into it again and linger longer within the world of Aerthe, I'll definitely be re-reading this story, many times.
July 23, 2017
Holy Shiz this book is amazing!
Acquired Possession opens in the middle of an excellent action scene, sucking me in and never letting go.
The world building is fantastic; to use Emery's words: "World War One tech crossed with Doctor Who."
So many scenes are laced with darkly sexual undertones, occasionally outright blatantly delicious ones, and it's enthralling.
All of it.
I'm a sucker for those scenes where some may see cruelty, but others see domineering eroticism. For me, much of the story was a constantly charged, deliciously sexual feast.
The world is left open for more stories to follow, and I eagerly look forward to revisiting Aerthe.
Here are some of my favorite, non-spoilery lines:
"If this was Narnia, she wanted fawns and moralistic heroes who offered you cloaks and sips of warming beverages. Not leather cuffs threaded with steel."
"Her legs might tremble but she’d said what she had to. Maybe because she knew this would get harder to do the longer she was here. Soon, if he had his way, and she was afraid he would, she would lose her courage. She would cherish this time –a memory of when she still had balls."
"Mako raised his leg and planted his boot on her butt. Not too much pressure, just enough to let her feel the weight and maybe the grit on the sole, reminding her who had control."
"He ate up her pain. She loved the darkness in his eyes, the pleasure he gave her, the way he stopped to watch when she whimpered and wriggled."
Acquired Possession opens in the middle of an excellent action scene, sucking me in and never letting go.
The world building is fantastic; to use Emery's words: "World War One tech crossed with Doctor Who."
So many scenes are laced with darkly sexual undertones, occasionally outright blatantly delicious ones, and it's enthralling.
All of it.
I'm a sucker for those scenes where some may see cruelty, but others see domineering eroticism. For me, much of the story was a constantly charged, deliciously sexual feast.
The world is left open for more stories to follow, and I eagerly look forward to revisiting Aerthe.
Here are some of my favorite, non-spoilery lines:
"If this was Narnia, she wanted fawns and moralistic heroes who offered you cloaks and sips of warming beverages. Not leather cuffs threaded with steel."
"Her legs might tremble but she’d said what she had to. Maybe because she knew this would get harder to do the longer she was here. Soon, if he had his way, and she was afraid he would, she would lose her courage. She would cherish this time –a memory of when she still had balls."
"Mako raised his leg and planted his boot on her butt. Not too much pressure, just enough to let her feel the weight and maybe the grit on the sole, reminding her who had control."
"He ate up her pain. She loved the darkness in his eyes, the pleasure he gave her, the way he stopped to watch when she whimpered and wriggled."
July 31, 2018
Aquired Possesion (The Machinery of Desire Book 1) is the latest book dark sci fi book by Cari Silverwood that I have read.
This story that revolves around Emery or Slave 12 as she is known, on the world of Aerthe. Emery is used as a blood slave as her body hosts Factor H. She is owned by Basteer but it's up to Mako, the House Master to keep her in line and punish her when required and boy does he punish her! to the point of me of thinking that the punishment was harsh compared to the crime. But it all was essential for the character development and for the story and their relationship blossoms because of all they go through.
I found this story interesting because for me it's a romance story but it isn't a romance story at the same time if that makes any sense. I found that Mako and Emerys relationship works even if it's unconventional. One of my favourite character in this book has to be JI-Mech the Mechling he was so adorable and I want one!
I'm delighted that this is part of a series and I'm excited to read the story of Emerys friends. This book is for people who love their sci fi dark and please read the earnings before you start reading. 5 stars from me.
This story that revolves around Emery or Slave 12 as she is known, on the world of Aerthe. Emery is used as a blood slave as her body hosts Factor H. She is owned by Basteer but it's up to Mako, the House Master to keep her in line and punish her when required and boy does he punish her! to the point of me of thinking that the punishment was harsh compared to the crime. But it all was essential for the character development and for the story and their relationship blossoms because of all they go through.
I found this story interesting because for me it's a romance story but it isn't a romance story at the same time if that makes any sense. I found that Mako and Emerys relationship works even if it's unconventional. One of my favourite character in this book has to be JI-Mech the Mechling he was so adorable and I want one!
I'm delighted that this is part of a series and I'm excited to read the story of Emerys friends. This book is for people who love their sci fi dark and please read the earnings before you start reading. 5 stars from me.
July 10, 2017
Cari Silverwood has always been able to put her special spin on storytelling, Acquired Possession is no different. Our minds get to travel to a world that isn’t earth, flying ships, mechanicals and a breed of species all they’re own.
A kind of steampunkish, Sci-Fi a bit of dark all rolled up into a mind catching story that will have you caught until the very end.
Its a different take on a old go to story sit back and enjoy how Cari spins this story for you. Vampires aren’t the ones that sparkle in this story *smiles* a story of ultimate control, of desire because its forbidden or is it something else. An awakening of feelings that weren’t known or not looked to closely at. A story of desperation of not giving in.
You will learn quick what the rules are or suffer the punishment, the Master deals out punishment as a job he enjoys. This isn’t a rainbow and butterfly story but one of dark erotic need, the need to deal it out and the need to accept it. I read and review this book voluntarily and do recommend it.
A kind of steampunkish, Sci-Fi a bit of dark all rolled up into a mind catching story that will have you caught until the very end.
Its a different take on a old go to story sit back and enjoy how Cari spins this story for you. Vampires aren’t the ones that sparkle in this story *smiles* a story of ultimate control, of desire because its forbidden or is it something else. An awakening of feelings that weren’t known or not looked to closely at. A story of desperation of not giving in.
You will learn quick what the rules are or suffer the punishment, the Master deals out punishment as a job he enjoys. This isn’t a rainbow and butterfly story but one of dark erotic need, the need to deal it out and the need to accept it. I read and review this book voluntarily and do recommend it.
January 16, 2018
KU
This was a book that I never saw coming! For me it held elements of steampunk and reminded me of The Bone Season without the sex. (Sweetest character Mammoth.)
This was a book that I never saw coming! For me it held elements of steampunk and reminded me of The Bone Season without the sex. (Sweetest character Mammoth.)
April 9, 2021
I'm personally not really into erotica/dark erotica because I feel plots get lost in all the sex. Every once in a while it's ok- when I'm in the mood. I can only read so much of page after page of people boning. However, this book was giving me strong R. Lee Smith vibes. It was more than just dark erotica, it was horror (which I love) but still somehow (god knows how) maintained a romantic element.
Cari Silverwood seems like a very gifted author and I was truly invested in this story. It definitely had more meat than most cheesy erotica. Isn't in nice when a story has it all? Give credit where credit is due- Cari can write. I knocked a star off because of the end- it got a little too "in my feels" for me, but other than that, I'll pick this author up again (down the road when I'm in the mood to read about fingers in booties and all kinds of kinky contraptions that have no business near anyone's business) However, my sweet innocent mind can only read so much smut in one day.
Cari Silverwood seems like a very gifted author and I was truly invested in this story. It definitely had more meat than most cheesy erotica. Isn't in nice when a story has it all? Give credit where credit is due- Cari can write. I knocked a star off because of the end- it got a little too "in my feels" for me, but other than that, I'll pick this author up again (down the road when I'm in the mood to read about fingers in booties and all kinds of kinky contraptions that have no business near anyone's business) However, my sweet innocent mind can only read so much smut in one day.
July 26, 2017
I really want to give this story 6/5 stars, it really is that good.
Emery, also known as Slave 12 of the House Oren, is a woman who was somehow lured to Aerthe and turned into a mere possession. Mako is the House Master and her trainer. He is in charge of making sure this formerly free woman accepts her place as a slave. He's a disgraced war hero who isn't allowed to go as far as he wants with the woman who reminds him of his former love.
The book starts in the middle of a courtroom scene where humans have just been named slaves owned by their patrons. One of the women, Fern, who was abducted with Emery attacks a judge with a knife and is sentenced to be his slave and for him to be able to stab her once with a knife, just as she had stabbed him. Emery is horrified, and Mako, who is behind her in the courtroom, carries her out of the room when it appears that she is unable to get herself out.
Emery has a hard time trying to adjust and wants to keep fighting against Mako, who needs for her to start understanding her place and who is fighting against his attraction to Emery. She's nothing but a slave, and he can be nothing but her House Master. His first punishment is creative. Her caning is so very, very hot. She acts out, he punishes her. When she is accused of sedition, he has to seriously punish her, and holy cow, I wish I could be her. I want some purple electricity, so bad.
The story is a beautiful one, and very well written. It's not just a love story with a HEA, although there is that, it's a story about the journey that Emery takes from free woman to a willing submissive. Cari Silverwood really did well with that. I really enjoyed Emery's struggles and trying to figure out how she was feeling and what she really wanted.
Do heed the warnings and disclaimers on this story. They are there for a very good reason. But if they don't scare you off, you will love this story.
Emery, also known as Slave 12 of the House Oren, is a woman who was somehow lured to Aerthe and turned into a mere possession. Mako is the House Master and her trainer. He is in charge of making sure this formerly free woman accepts her place as a slave. He's a disgraced war hero who isn't allowed to go as far as he wants with the woman who reminds him of his former love.
The book starts in the middle of a courtroom scene where humans have just been named slaves owned by their patrons. One of the women, Fern, who was abducted with Emery attacks a judge with a knife and is sentenced to be his slave and for him to be able to stab her once with a knife, just as she had stabbed him. Emery is horrified, and Mako, who is behind her in the courtroom, carries her out of the room when it appears that she is unable to get herself out.
Emery has a hard time trying to adjust and wants to keep fighting against Mako, who needs for her to start understanding her place and who is fighting against his attraction to Emery. She's nothing but a slave, and he can be nothing but her House Master. His first punishment is creative. Her caning is so very, very hot. She acts out, he punishes her. When she is accused of sedition, he has to seriously punish her, and holy cow, I wish I could be her. I want some purple electricity, so bad.
The story is a beautiful one, and very well written. It's not just a love story with a HEA, although there is that, it's a story about the journey that Emery takes from free woman to a willing submissive. Cari Silverwood really did well with that. I really enjoyed Emery's struggles and trying to figure out how she was feeling and what she really wanted.
Do heed the warnings and disclaimers on this story. They are there for a very good reason. But if they don't scare you off, you will love this story.
January 11, 2018
If you like your sci-fi romance dark and twisted, the Acquired Possession is the book for you! Cari Silverwood is the queen of dark romance, and this book just proves it. The first book in the Machinery of Desire series will make you shiver in delicious, dark, erotic delight!
Our heroine Emery finds herself transported to Aerthe, and there she meets Mako, a man as mean and cruel as the shark he’s named after. She’s made his slave by proclamation from the king, and when she mouths off to him, she ends up with a very public and painful humiliating punishment. Emery reminds Mako of his dead girlfriend Shea, which angers him. He plans to break her, and he certainly tries very hard to do so. But Emery is a strong woman, even when they take her blood for the life giving benefits for Mako’s people, a couple of brutal punishments by Mako’s boss and the king, and by Mako himself.
There are some truly cringe worthy scenes in this book, but that to me is the sign of a great dark romance. The ones where I definitely need to read a few sappy romances in between. Cari just delivers the goods as usual!
Our heroine Emery finds herself transported to Aerthe, and there she meets Mako, a man as mean and cruel as the shark he’s named after. She’s made his slave by proclamation from the king, and when she mouths off to him, she ends up with a very public and painful humiliating punishment. Emery reminds Mako of his dead girlfriend Shea, which angers him. He plans to break her, and he certainly tries very hard to do so. But Emery is a strong woman, even when they take her blood for the life giving benefits for Mako’s people, a couple of brutal punishments by Mako’s boss and the king, and by Mako himself.
There are some truly cringe worthy scenes in this book, but that to me is the sign of a great dark romance. The ones where I definitely need to read a few sappy romances in between. Cari just delivers the goods as usual!
March 25, 2019
Nothing about this story is like anything I have ever read before. The way Ms. Sliverwood has blended sci-fi, steampunk, and dystopian worlds together added an interesting element to this dark tale. I am so impressed by her ability to create something so unlike anything else as a setting, and I loved it. Amazing world-building is something I look for as a reader and this one was spot on. It gave enough information to make it real without bogging the story down. It is this world-building that took the trope of slave girl/dangerous master to a whole new level for me. The complex characters didn't hurt that either. Emery was believable from beginning to end. She was determined, didn't fight the system too much, and used her brain. I loved how intelligent she was and all the ways she was able to hide what she was doing. When you pair her with Mako and his own brand of sneakiness you get a battle of wits that either could win. I also have to give a shout-out for the mechs, especially Mammoth. The way the different species interact with each other is interesting and I can't wait to learn more about the others who call Aerthe their home.
December 4, 2018
I’d call it dark SF erotic romance due to the HEA, but it is pretty darn dark (think classic Morgan Starr). Not for the squeamish or light BDSM reader. We’re talking blood and lots of humiliation. Yet I bought the HEA because the character/relationship development was just as rich as the sf world-building (which was truly excellent). Both Emery and Mako were believable and relatable (though it took a while to like Mako), and there was never a point when I was disgusted with the choices either of them made (I hate it when that happens). Although the longer story arc has been set up and hinted at here and there, all of the shorter loose ends were tied up satisfactorily. I’ll definitely be picking up the next one, am totally hooked. It’s been a long time since I’ve read anything in this genre that I liked so well.
June 27, 2019
4.5... This book was as delicious and devious as the lead up taunts were giving me. I slowed some with the story, trying to pull together the information given on what this world was like and why, but often it felt provided in too small of fragments before I was thrown back into a mentally shivering torrent of Emery's treatment. Given her placement in this world, I found little to no fault in the fragmented information. In fact, it only made it feel more in line with how much she had to struggle to understand, herself. I'm not sure I'll continue in the series, but I will definitely read Cari's work again.
July 2, 2017
This book, is mother f*cking magic. This isn't your typical Cari Silverwood book, but those who are fans of her, do not fear. It's definitely one of her books, but not what you're used to. I feel like I can't say a whole lot without giving spoilers and I don't do that, but this book is just wow freaking amazaballs. I love the characters, I love the plot, and I love the richness of this story. It's so easy to fall into this world that Silverwood has created and find yourself completely lost within the pages. This is definitely a book you do not want to miss out on!
August 21, 2019
Acquired Possession is the first book in this series, and it's a sci-fi, techno-steampunk dark erotica story featuring Emery, a female who is taken from her world and placed into a "house" of otherworldly beings. Mako is the House Master who is tasked with guarding her, and he's no pushover, but his feelings for her are so conflicted. I love a good dark, non-con/dub-con book with BDSM elements, and this one had them all. The sex scenes were twisted and hot, totally cringe-worthy, and yet I'm still fanning myself!
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