Escape

Crossing Nüwa #1

by Sean Ian O'Meidhir, Connal Braginsky

Crossing Nü Book One

For sheltered Robbie, one week of freedom leads to sexual awakening and adventure… but when his world intersects with Theo’s, they’ll need all their wits and Theo’s magic to fight for their future. 

Rare male weresnake Robbie has had his whole life decided for him down to his meals. But when the time comes for him to perform an unspeakable duty to his clan, he runs.

San Francisco Pride is in full swing when technomage Theo spots a scared-looking young man with brilliant emerald eyes. He’s only looking for a hookup, but before he knows why, he’s taking Robbie home and introducing him to champagne and enchiladas. He doesn’t have any intention of falling in love.

Robbie doesn’t want to return to his clan, at least not without trying to fit a lifetime of experiences into a week, but every day he stays puts Theo in more danger.

Genres: Shapeshifters, M M Romance, Paranormal, LGBT, Fantasy, Supernatural, Gay

192 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 9, 2019

Reviews

[Gerbera_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was rather interesting slightly adventurous slow burn PNR story featuring a rare male snake shifter and a special kind of mage. At certain points I felt rather irritated by both MCs but in the course of the story they grew on me for various reasons.

Robbie has been under his mother's thumb all his life. He was unloved, neglected and frankly speaking mentally and emotionally abused. On his 18th birthday he must fulfill his destiny despite his desires and wants. So this prompts his flight into the night in search of something other than what's in store for him. His naivete at times was a tad annoying but he made up for it with his thirst for everything new and the feelings of wonder and excitement he brought back into jaded Theo.

Theo is a technomage. In the age of everything electronic and technology controlling many aspects of human lives, the sky is the limit for him and all he can do. He is self-centered and slightly narcissistic. Hmm, not a good combination. And at first I found myself not caring much about him. Despite him taking Robbie under his wing after initial misunderstanding, Theo's motives are not entirely pure. It's Pride Parade and parties galore, so Robbie will serve well as a pleasurable interlude. But there is something about Robbie that Theo finds alluring and hard to resist. He is not looking for a relationship, but Robbie's fragility and his innocence intrigue him to no end.

Their relationship starts quickly as friendship with wild attraction, but initially they spend only a few days together before Robbie's family catches up to him. From then on something changes in Theo to the point that he wants to know Robbie, wants to be there for him if he lets him.

This book was full of innocent exploration, serious kicking a$$ of nasty snake women, freeing oneself from imposed chains be they literal or metaphorical and finally coming into one's own and finding oneself. Robbie's journey is not an easy one but he connects with Theo on emotional and intellectual level from afar before he is ready to be with him. I liked that he gave himself a chance to simply breathe and didn't use Theo to forget his past. He worked through it with people who could help him deal with it and move on. I admired Robbie's strength and his taking a chance. Theo grew on me over time since he, while still being a little selfish, wanted what's best for Robbie.

I hope this is the first in the series because this book ended with a sort of HFN. It was very entertaining, told in dual POV with a mild steam level. I had fun reading it and recommend it. Copy provided for my honest and unbiased review

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4 stars

A book with a snake shifter is something not often seen and I was intrigued by the description. We meet Robbie as he is turning 18, and his duty to his clan is being called upon. Robbie doesn’t want to stay, but has a difficult time leaving and it slowly comes out as to why that is. Robbie has not been allowed to leave the clan compound in five years and his life is carefully structured and monitored. There is role reversal here as the women are the strongest in the clan, but also there are barely any men. That still does not make it any easier to see the treatment that Robbie has suffered through from his mother and aunt. Still, Robbie manages to leave and runs almost straight into the arms of Theo.

Theo is a technomage and his skills allow him to manipulate all forms of technology. He works as a DJ because he enjoys it and his clients have become his friends, not because he needs the money. He likes his life and enjoys hookups and a relationship is not something he is looking for. But he didn’t know someone like Robbie existed.

Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.

[Rachel Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars, rounded up, for the delightful characters and interesting concept!

Robbie is a rare snake shifter, and due to that, his mother and aunt have kept in locked up with very rigid and strict rules, with plans to use him for their own gain. Robbie manages to escape and finds his way to San Francisco during Pride weekend, where he meets Theo, a DJ and mage who can manipulate all things technological.

Robbie is lovely, sweet, naive, and completely adorable as he eats fries and burgers and champagne for the very first time. And Theo is just smitten, so much so that he can't even understand it since he doesn't usually go for virgins and relationships.

I really enjoyed the mix of shifters and magic in this story, and I think it's definitely something I would love to see expanded on in future stories from this writing duo if they write more in this series. Overall, I really enjoyed this story - it's what I would consider a slow burn, despite some hot moments when they are first together, and I'm always up for that.

I did feel like it seemed a bit...choppy? The flow of chapter to chapter was sometimes abrupt (maybe the authors alternate?) and I felt like there were a few minor things unanswered (Robbie and blood - specially his future with Theo's blood, Theo's other jobs and past) while other things (ie, what Robbie's mom wanted of him on his 18th birthday) seemed like too much importance was placed on them and so the reveal was a bit meh.

I look forward to more in from this duo!

I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Gabi]

dnf @42%

[Altivo Overo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well done, and despite fantasy elements such as shape shifters and mages, the issues of self recognition and acceptance followed by coming out to family and friends are very much true to life.

Can't say much without introducing spoilers here, but this one is definitely not a series of porn scenes. It is a detailed account of two very different men discovering the levels of their own existence and their connection with each other.

[Joyffree · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was all about the journey
Packed with feels that had me ping-ponging from disbelief to laughter and a million places in between
I do wish we got the final tea on the egg donor and her clan -
As well as Grams and the enforcer (trying not to spoil lol)
However, if the series continues with some of these characters I might get my answers

Robbie is raised in a strict environment. His only purpose is to serve the greater good of his species. He has always followed the commands he has been given (not that he had a choice) but he wants to taste freedom - he wants to live. He dares to attempt a life outside of his controlling mother and aunt.
Can he find himself?
Can he escape his future?

Robbie is all kinds of innocence and when you pair him with the rougher more real Theo - who by the way IMO is his perfect match- you get a well-balanced couple that pulls all those heartstrings
This has a touch of suspense at the beginning that leads to a journey of self-discovery for our Robbie as well as Theo all wrapped up with an HEA

I am looking forward to more from this series
Really enjoyed the unique shifters and the different species interactions
The physical side of the romance is a slow burn but the emotional connection between the two MC's is raging

[Diane Dannenfeldt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well I enjoyed this new to me authors and can’t wait until they write more books! I have never read about a weresnake before and it was so cool. I hated his mother and aunt for the way they treated him. They raised him to believe that he was basically a second hand citizen when he should have been cherished. I loved seeing him run away and end up at pride week! Things could have gone so bad along the way but I’m glad they didn’t. Theo was perfect for Robbie. Even though Theo was the love em and leave em type, he fell for Robbie hook, line and sinker. I so enjoyed watching Theo open up the world to Robbie and showing him everything he has missed out on life, from hot sex, great music, close friends to great food. My only niggle with the book is I would have liked to see his mother and aunt really being punished. Also, I would have liked more time together after Robbie is reunited with Theo and he is really free. There were several secondary characters that I really enjoyed and made the story even more enjoyable.

ARC provided by LesCourt Services in exchange for an honest review.

[Claudia · Rating 3 out of 5]

oh ... I seem to start my reviews at the moment with the sentence: this book is for me difficult to review or to rate ... don't know why. maybe I should take a break from new authors and read one or two classics.
so, nevertheless, this one was not so difficult as others but still no clear thing. so please excuse me when i am rambling a bit

I liked the story idea and the world building ... I am not so sure if I liked Robbie but I think he grew on me. Theo was for me not so difficult to like (contrary to other reviewers)
on the whole this was a real good read - but I am struggeling with starting the next book and I am not so sure why. maybe because for me both of them together are good but I have no real trust in their relationship so far ... and yes I know, then I should read the next one (which I will do ... not sure when, but I will)

so all in all, this was a good read with interesting characters and a good story, it was well written ... but I had my troubles connecting with them.

I am happy that I got an ARC, to get the chance to read this one and as always this review is my honest opinion

[Badh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this world just knocked me out. The world building that the authors did is just 100% amazing, and a new type of paranormal species with new rules is always fun.

I really like Robbie, and I wanted to just cry for him. He had been so abused and mistreated that he really was just like a total innocent. He needs all the protection possible, and just for someone to love and hold him and make his world all better. I think my favorite scene is at the Pride parade and how Robbie feels so connected to everyone there. That is just such an awesome feeling, feeling like you've come home and found your people.

Theo was a really interesting character too. He is much more worldly, and he is more sure about his place in the world. He has his own issues, of course, but he really has a good base to himself, mostly.

[Fay MMBookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

A first read for these authors with this book.
A great start to the book as 18 yrs Robbie was escaping to freedom. Needing to get away from his controlling mother and her plans for him.
Theo had picked a guy in a pride parade in the streets. as a technomage using magic for his DJ job as well as other things he'd did.
A great paranormal story told with duel POVs with each chapter. Right from the start I liked this book, it's definitely different featuring a snake shifter and a mage. Escape was a great title for this book which ends beautifully. written with a bit of imagination their powers especially with Theo's, I wondered how the magics where achieved in scenes where Robbie's being watched. Drama and action with a slow romance for a finish.

[Tessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book. This was a really interesting new world that these authors built! This might be the first time that I have read a were snake or snake shifter in general. This book is UF mixed with PNR. Man, there is so much going on in this book we have Robbie and Theo (a technomage which is awesome!) who are pushed together because of circumstances This is definitely a slow burn romance, there is a more emotional connection first. Robbie was really sheltered so the connection he formed with Robbie is really important. Really this is about Robbie's growth, I like that even though he was imprisoned because of his ability as a rare were snake he is able to become stronger, and hopefully, in the next book we will see more growth from him (Theo helps a lot). Definitely recommend this book.

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know, normally when I see 'snake' I run screaming. For real. But this was really interesting and I enjoyed it so much. Seriously don't ever want to see one up close again, but will be happy with reading interesting stories about them lol.
My heart broke in this story for Robbie. Being a very rare male weresnake, he's basically been imprisoned in his own home for 5 years. Even before that, his mother and Aunt were doing things to him and his psyche that he really didn't know or understand. He just knew he always felt off. On his eighteenth birthday, he finally got up the nerve to run away. He figured out what was going to happen at his 'party' and he couldn't take it anymore. He made it to San Francisco during the middle of gay pride and was 'taken hostage' by a bear who wanted to devour him. But Theo, being a mage himself, was quickly learning something wasn't adding up with Robbie. He didn't want to get involved, because he wasn't a relationship kind of guy, but something about Robbie just screamed at him and before he knew it, he was falling. But unfortunately, Robbie's life caught up with him and snatched him back, while Robbie just cried. Theo knew he had to help, but he doesn't know if he will get to Robbie in time.
You know, I'm all for women having equal rights and being leaders and all that. I am a woman for Pete sake. BUT, when you use that power to enslave someone, that's a huge no no. Hell, that goes for anyone. I wanted to shield Robbie from page one. And the more I read, the madder I got. Sometimes you just want to throat punch people. Robbie's mother and Aunt needed to be. I'm so thankful Theo had him grabbed at gay Pride. I know Theo didn't want to be involved and it was irritating him to a point, but he saved Robbie in so many ways. Without Theo, Robbie's life would have ended much differently. Can't say more than that. Lol
And Theo, despite acting like a loner, just was the teddy bear he looks like. I just love him. He needs Robbie in so many ways himself. Robbie makes him see the world in a different light. He brings a newness to everything and so much joy.
Such a good book. Snake fights, shifters with swords, mages that do weird things with their eyes. It's cool as hell. I'm very interested in what's going to happen I'm the next book.


http://lovebytesreviews.com/

[Karolina Cebula · Rating 5 out of 5]

*4.5 - 5 stars*

"Escape" is the first volume of the "Crossing Nüwa" series, embedded in a truly fascinating universe full of diverse, supernatural beings. I think it is worth noting that in this volume, we don't really see representatives of too many species and types, but we learn a little about them and about their existence, which I think is extremely important for the construction of this world. Well, "Escape" is our first adventure in this universe, so the more we know about it, the more efficiently our imagination works and we better understand the novel. What's more, thanks to the more detailed world building from the very start, our interest in the series created by Sean Ian O'Meidhir and Connal Braginsky is fueled to the point that we already want to read the next volume, learn more and get to know other creatures who live in this universe, and we definitely would like to be part of it, which is probably the best book recommendation.

In this amazingly interesting and colorful universe, the authors have embedded their undoubtedly absorbing and sweet story. In fact, it's hard for me to decide what this novel is primarily focusing on, because it combines many very important elements that seem to propel "Escape" and arouse our interest to the same extent. The story presented in this book revolves around paranormal beings, "prison of fate" and getting to know the world outside of the said prison, sexual arousal, birth of feelings. In short, "Escape" largely focuses on the broadly understood discovery of oneself, feelings and the world. Thus, relatively little and at the same time a lot is happening in this novel, as it depends on what we focus on. Anyway, the story presented here is really interesting and quickly conquers our heart. Personally, I would not change anything in it. It is just right!

I think that the huge, or even enormous advantage of "Escape" is the way in which the authors develop the urban fantasy genre by adding new elements to it. The best example is the technomage, who in my opinion combines fantasy and sci-fi. I admit that at the very beginning I was not entirely sure if I would like such a combination. After all, I'm a huge fan of fantasy, but I approach the topic of science fiction rather carefully. However, I've quickly forgotten about all my doubts concerning technomagic, because it turned out to be so amazing and powerful that I would have to be crazy to not appreciate it. What's more, it is only one of the varieties of magic, which is of great importance for the construction of the world of this series. Everything points to the fact that magic in the world of "Crossing Nüwa" evolves, adapts to the reality in which it exists. This is extremely fascinating and to be honest, I really can't wait to read the next volume of this series.

Finally, I would like to refer to one of the more serious and important problems raised in "Escape", namely the topic of upbringing, which is followed by a really huge range of other subjects. The authors in a really great way showed how important to human life upbringing is. It makes us dependent on other people or independent, it makes us slaves or free people, it gives us the opportunity to get to know the world or interferes with our exploration of its secrets, it puts in our hands a natural weapon or makes us weak, innocent, easy victims. What's more, Sean Ian O'Meidhir and Connal Braginsky also showed us that the environment in which a person is brought up is considered by them to be natural, right, dominant. At this point, I must also point out that the authors managed to perfectly embody all of this in Robbie's creation, thanks to which the problem of upbringing was more clearly emphasized.

To sum up, "Escape" is a fantastic, interesting novel about getting to know the world, discovering one's feelings and oneself. It has been embedded in a genius universe, which we fall in love with immediately and about which we want to know more, while the main characters conquer our hearts and make us really attach to them. In short, it is a title really worth recommending.

______________________

Opis

„Escape” jest pierwszym tomem serii „Crossing Nüwa”, osadzonej w naprawdę fascynującym uniwersum pełnym różnorodnych, nadnaturalnych istot. Myślę, że warto zauważyć, iż w tym tomie nie spotykamy wprawdzie przedstawicieli zbyt wielu gatunków oraz ras, jednak dowiadujemy się co nieco o nich i ich istnieniu, co wydaje mi się niezwykle istotne dla budowy tego świata. W końcu „Escape” to nasza pierwsza przygoda w tym uniwersum, więc im większa jest nasza wiedza na jego temat, tym sprawniej działa nasza wyobraźnia i lepiej wczuwamy się w powieść. Co więcej, dzięki bardziej szczegółowej budowie świata już na tym etapie, nasze zainteresowanie serią stworzoną przez Seana Iana O'Meidhir, Connala Braginsky zostaje rozbudzone do tego stopnia, że już teraz mamy ochotę sięgnąć po kolejny tom, dowiedzieć się więcej, poznać bliżej kolejne istoty, które go zamieszkują, jak również naprawdę chcielibyśmy sami być jego częścią, a to chyba najlepsza rekomendacja.

W tym niesamowicie interesującym i barwnym uniwersum, autorzy osadzili swoją niewątpliwie absorbującą i słodką historię. Prawdę mówiąc, ciężko jest mi ocenić, na czym przede wszystkim skupia się ta powieść, ponieważ łączy ona w sobie wiele bardzo istotnych elementów, które wydają mi się w równym stopniu napędzać „Escape” oraz rozbudzać nasze zainteresowanie. Historia przedstawiona w tej książce kręci się bowiem wokół istot paranormalnych, więzienia „przeznaczenia” oraz poznania świata poza tym więzieniem, seksualnego rozbudzenia, narodzin uczuć. Krótko mówiąc, „Escape” w dużej mierze skupia się nad szeroko pojętym odkrywaniu siebie, uczuć i świata. Tym samym, w powieści dzieje się stosunkowo niewiele i jednocześnie bardzo dużo, w zależności od tego, na czym się skupiamy. Tak czy inaczej, przedstawiona tu historia jest naprawdę interesująca i szybko podbija nasze serce. Osobiście nie zmieniłabym w niej zupełnie nic. Jest taka, jaka być powinna!

Uważam, że ogromną, przeogromną zaletą „Escape” jest sposób, w jaki autorzy rozbudowują gatunek urban fantasy, dodając do niego nowe elementy. Najlepszym przykładem jest postać technomaga, który tak naprawdę łączy w sobie fantastykę oraz sci-fi. Przyznaję, że na samym początku nie byłam do końca pewna, czy takie połączenie przypadnie mi do gustu. W końcu jestem wielką fanką fantastyki, ale do science fiction podchodzę raczej ostrożnie. Bardzo szybko odrzuciłam jednak wszelkie wątpliwości, co do technomagii, ponieważ okazała się ona tak niesamowita i potężna, że musiałabym chyba oszaleć aby jej nie docenić. Co więcej, jest ona tylko jedną z odmian magii, co ma ogromne znaczenie dla budowy świata tej serii. Wszystko wskazuje bowiem na to, że magia w świecie „Crossing Nüwa” ewoluuje, dopasowuje się do obrazu rzeczywistości, w której istnieje. To niezwykle fascynujące i prawdę mówiąc tym bardziej nie mogę się doczekać kolejnego tomu tej serii.

Na koniec chciałabym jeszcze odnieść się do jednego z poważniejszych i ważniejszych problemów poruszonych w „Escape”, a mianowicie do tematu wychowania, który niesie ze sobą naprawdę ogromny wachlarz innych. Autorzy w naprawdę świetny sposób pokazali, jak ogromne znaczenie dla życia człowieka ma wychowanie. To ono czyni nas zależnymi od innych ludzi lub niezależnymi, ono czyni z nas niewolników lub ludzi wolnych, daje nam możliwość poznania świata lub zamyka przed nami drogę do zgłębiania jego tajemnic, ono wkłada w nasze ręce naturalną broń lub czyni nas słabymi, niewinnymi, łatwymi ofiarami. Mało tego, Sean Ian O'Meidhir oraz Connal Braginsky pokazali nam także, że środowisko w jakim wychowywany jest człowiek uważane jest przez niego za naturalne, właściwe, dominujące. W tym miejscu muszę także zaznaczyć, że autorom udało się wszystko to w doskonały sposób zamknąć w kreacji Robbie’ego, dzięki czemu problem wychowania został tym wyraźniej podkreślony.

Podsumowując, „Escape” to fantastyczna, interesująca powieść o poznawaniu świata, odkrywaniu swoich uczuć oraz samego siebie. Została osadzona w genialnym uniwersum, w którym od razu się zakochujemy i które pragniemy nadal poznawać, zaś główni bohaterowie podbijają nasze serca i sprawiają, że naprawdę się do nich przywiązujemy. Krótko mówiąc, jest to tytuł naprawdę wart polecenia.

[Anabela.M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The authors created an interesting new fantasy world as a background for Theo, a techno mage, and Robbie,a serpent shifter.

Robbie is a gem. He's been kept prisoner in his house and he knows mostly nothing about the outside world. And when he manages to escape I found his fascination and wonder for all the new things he experiences so darn cute. He's adorable, shy,kind and so,so innocent.

Theo is endearing,too. He tries to present himself like this though,unfeeling guy when in reality he's sweet,caring and protective.

I found both of them irresistible and I loved watching the evolving of their romance. Their story is at time hilarious and other times saddening, sweet and hot...always captivating and intriguing.

Escape is an amazing read and I really recommend it.

[Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Shorty for MM Good Book Reviews 4 💖💖💖💖 Hearts

Robbie is a rare snake shifter that his family has plans for despite what he wants. he decides to take some time to himself and escapes. He sets off and meets Theo, a technomage during a pride parade. Theo wants Robbie but decides to back off some due to Robbie's innocence, The two strike up a friendship until Robbie's family comes for him.

I liked this story. Robbie had a lot of growing to do and finding himself considering how his family treated him. I liked that he finally took a stand. Theo was not what I expected but he eventually started to change for the better.

An intriguing story full of drama and some tense situations. All in all it was an intriguing book.

Great read.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

This book had SO many things that I absolutely love. Shifters that are atypical animals, urban fantasy elements (technomages?! How cool!), an plus size MC with the other MC straight up loving that fact, literally so many things that kept me from putting this one down. Robbie is an absolute sweetheart and Theo is such a teddy bear who just needed someone to take care of. The politics are interesting, the bad guys are obvious, but well done, and the whole world is well built. The reduction is for a rather abrupt ending, but there is a sequel and hopefully more!

[Kaila · Rating 4 out of 5]

i honestly had no idea what i was getting into but the words "weresnake" interested me so much i had to read this and boy am i glad i did. :) it was amazing.. and action packed. it was unique and different. i really enjoyed the take on magic and love.. it was just all around a fun story to read

[Carmen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: One of the authors is a friend of mine and kindly sent me a copy in exchange for an honest review.

First things first: M/M isn't my normal genre. As such, I was somewhat hesitant to give this a shot. But with so much time on my hands, I figured why not - what've I got to lose? After all, I pride myself on trying all genres at least once.
Honestly, I'm glad I gave it a go. I really enjoyed it! Fell into it, even, and a good deal deeper than I expected I would.

The characters were immediately enjoyable, each with a distinct personality. I like being able to keep track of which character is which, especially in books with alternating POVs like this one. And it was easy in this case! That may seem somewhat strange since there's only two characters, but I've seen too many other books where it's hard to keep even that few separate!

I will say that I struggled a tiny bit with the "magical" aspects of it. When they were first introduced, it was a little jarring, since the world is so modern and "normal." But I quickly adapted and soon it seemed normal enough.

The overall plot was enjoyable, and I quickly slipped into it, rooting for things to go well, pouting for when they didn't. It was a good mix of highs and lows; of tension and pleasure.
Speaking of pleasure, I found the sexy bits to be tastefully done and relevant - something I appreciate immensely.

Though the pacing was done overall, there were a couple times I found myself questioning the timeline, and how long certain events had lasted (i.e. was it 2 days as they say, or 3 as I thought I counted). However, I can't fault that too much as I'm not entirely sure if this is an actual problem/inconsistency, or if it was me misremembering.

It was also very well written, with a few cases of comma abuse (in my opinion), and some wayward italics (also potentially a fault with my copy/device). But regardless, it was a very fluid read, and even the potential errors weren't too disruptive to the reading.

I look forward to reading the second book and following the characters in the next stage of their journey!

[Violet Marshall · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first book in The Crossing Nüwa Series. An interesting book the writing was okay. I would have liked more world and character building on both aspects of the paranormal (shapeshifters and mages) and how they relate to the rest of the world. How are they organized in reality not just what someone has experienced? How old can they get (a few statements were unclear if they were reality or joke). As well as the rest of the paranormal world. It doesn’t need to be a lot, but that aspect felt disjointed with not a lot of info. I love paranormal stories and one thing that you can’t do is amuse anything because from book to book say a vampire they can have different abilities and baseline natures. Some vampires can walk in daylight as a come everyday fact were in most books they can’t. So, to amuse that a were snake will act a certain way could lead you to be misinformed and not able to enjoy the story because you are confused. So, I need more info than was given in this story to understand the world and the characters in it. I was left with too many questions even for a first book in a series. Even though I know events that happened to characters especially Robbie I don’t know who Robbie and Theo are and what do they think and believe or want, again I needed more. The flow and transitions weren’t as smooth and seamless as they could’ve been. Sometimes events seemed to end abruptly. Now having said this I did enjoy the idea of the story a lot and the potential that it had as well as the characters themselves. The plot was entertaining and it was steady throughout the book. So even though I had some problems with this book I am intrigued enough to want to read the next book. I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book for an honest review.

[Jenny Saul-Avila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely excellent read, this book. I was completely and totally sucked in and would've read the whole thing in one sitting if I could. Thankfully, I was left alone for the last 40% at least and the time spent reading flew. In addition to the overall plot and story world being interesting, I really liked the characters; I adored Robbie, wanted to wrap him up and give him all the things, much like Theo felt inclined, and was fully invested in the outcome.
Beyond the characters and story itself, the style of the writing was just so appealing to me, the seamless mix of fantasy, science fiction, and realism. Adding to how REAL the characters felt, despite magical abilities, the alternating POV is in both past and present tense, done so smoothly that I didn't even notice it until the last quarter of the book. I just accepted that the characters were telling me what happened in past tense while occasionally giving very brief asides of their current feelings about the events, places, or people in present tense. For example, a character said that San Diego IS beautiful, present tense, and then described what happened, past tense, at the time the events of this story unfolded. A balance of showing and telling in dribs and drabs held me in suspense without feeling any more lost than any of the characters felt as they navigated their own way through the story.
I previously read Awakening and Rescue, which is a sort of spin-off of this series, so I was pretty confident that I would enjoy this book. It went beyond my expectations though and I totally need to read the rest - I will also be rereading Awakening and Rescue. I received this book as an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.

[❤Sharonica-Logic❤ · Rating 5 out of 5]

💖Once Upon a Time Two Boys Met at PRIDE!💖 👬🌈👬


Title: Escape 🐍
Author: Sean Ian O'Meidhir and Connal Braginsky
Publisher: DSP Publications
Release Date: 7/09/2019
Genre/ Trope: MM Shifter Romance; PNR
Page Count: 192p.
SteaMMy Swordplay: 1/5 ⚔ (slow-burn)
Sharonica-Stars: 4.75✨
GoodReads AVG: 4.44🌟

Dual POV
Theo
& ROBBIE

I have a couple of confessions.
First- I really thought this was going to be more weird sci-fi, and less about character building around romantic relationships.
I WAS SO SO WRONG!!!!

Second- Based on the beginning of the story, I was a little leary about Robbie being portrayed as weak in mind and spirit.
AGAIN... SO GLAD TO BE WRONG!!! 😂

This was great! I have never read about snake shifters before, which is why I was so iffy about it at first. The Story though is about one young man's journey to finding himself, breaking the chains that have kept him bound and in fear all his life. And how life just shows up sometimes, and makes us turn left when we would have gone right, altering our path and Destiny for the better.

I sure hope more books come. We need more Kat, and the Enforced maybe. Heck with all the white-hat stuff Theo does as a Technomage a whole new generation could rise up against the bad shifters.

I loved this book so hard! Recommend for anyone who loves good shifter romances. It is a def slow burn though, but the Story is so excellent, did hard fans of steam and swordplay won't even miss it.

4.75 techno-co!ored-stars ✨✨✨✨•✨


I received a free copy of this book via LesCourt and am voluntarily leaving a review.💋

[Ida Umphers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am notorious among my friends for enjoying starting series somewhere other that the first book and if I like it, going back and reading previous entries. I almost never have any trouble with that. I read this book and its sequel in order, back to back, however, and they really do need to be read in order. This first book tells us how how Robbie escapes and focuses onhis experiences learning about our world with the help and eventual love of Theo. It is wonderful to find that Robbie only knows the world through reading gay porn and watching pride parades and then to see him in total fish out of water mode taking everything in. The author is great at taking us in and letting us experience the feelings of joy, confusion, excitement, fear of everday things we take for granted through the eyes of one to whom they are new. The relationship is hot, partly because everything is so new for Robbie and you totally root for these two to get together and have their happy ever after. It is obvious that it is really only a happy for now, however, as we know there is a second book to follow that could undo all the happiness here. I really enjoyed the fact that we have a were-snake and a technomage here. Characters off the beaten path of wolf shifters, wizards, etc. This is a great start and I would have been incredibly frustrated and impatient for the next book if it had not been immediately available.

[RainbowRow · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this! Which surprised me. I was skeptical about a snake shifter but it was very well done!

Tropes

🐍 Snake Shifter plus Mage
❤️ Size Difference
🐍 Cult
❤️ Virgin
🐍 Hurt/Comfort
❤️ 🍑 Training

This was more world building and plot than romance but the romance was cute too.

Theo is a bear (not the shifter kind, the big, burly, cuddly, chubby kind) and is not a relationship guy until a skinny, shy, pretty boy stumbles upon the pride parade. Theo basically snags him out of the crowd.

I liked that Theo wasn’t pushy with an obviously confused and traumatized Robbie.

Robbie’s family was a pure nightmare, but I won’t spoil anything about that.

Things I especially loved: the world and all the kids of paranormals discussed was extremely interesting and very well introduced. I love that they included *n*l training before sex. There are so many virgin books that skip that completely. In fact, most do.

Did not like: Theo joking around during the climax of the book was weird. There were some very long paragraphs I skimmed because there were too many in a row without breaking anything up.

You can the the authors are into gaming and world building as they state at the end. They’ve been friends since childhood and it showed in the way the universe came together.

I’m interested and will read book two.

[Rachwithheadinabook · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a story that part paranormal romance, part adventure and all slow burn. When Robbie the rare male snake shifter, turns 18 he has a destiny one he doesn’t want and hasn’t asked for, so he runs, ending up in San Francisco during pride. Where he meets Theo, a DJ and mage, a techno mage.

Robbie is a very naive character, sweet, innocent and very trusting which is surprising especially after having been abused and controlled by his mother for most of his life. Theo on the other hand is incredibly self-centred and narcissistic both traits of which he is fully aware, he does improve as a character once he stops thinking only of himself, Theo doesn’t understand why he is so drawn to Robbie however as he doesn’t do relationships or inexperienced people.

This is a great world that is being built I hope that the authors expand and do more books within it. I liked that once Robbie was free, him and Theo didn’t immediately skip into their happily ever after, that there was time for Robbie to heal, but I would have liked a bit more of what happened between him and Theo once he was free, truly free.

An interesting story that I would recommend.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Escape is the first book in the Crossing Nuwai series by authors Sean Ian O’Meidhir and Connal Braginsky. This book is written in dual POV. Which is a huge help to establish both the tone of this book and what the characters are thinking and feeling.
Robbie he is a sheltered were snake. He has had his whole life decided for him to include what he eats and when he eats. He wants to escape his fate, so he runs away.
Robbie is brave, stronger than he thinks, and a sweetly vulnerable character all wrapped up in one cute little package.
Theo is a human mage. He can merge with technology. I found that to be a fun and useful skill for a person to have. He originally picks up Robbie at a Pride parade and thinks he will have some fun with him. But the more he gets to know Robbie the more he falls for him.
These two each have something the other needs. I liked this story to start off a new series. There is just enough introduced to make me want more. I will be looking for more books in this series in the future.


Five Shooting Stars

[Jessi Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book was a first for me, I've never come across a shifter romance where the main character was a snake shifter! it was nice having something different than the standard fluffy types you see.

it was interesting right from the start but did feel a tad slow to get into the book but it does pick up pace and become engaging. while the characters were not outstanding they still had heart and I was left hoping for a good outcome for both of them.

i enjoyed the fact that theo wasn't you standard typical buff hot jock love interest but was a man with some meat on his bones! (closer to a bear type). it made that feel more real in the connection for some reason. theo also having a unique type of mage power I've not read about in PNR before was a nice touch for sure.

this was also my first for these authors, i will be checking out some of their other works in the future.

in the end this book was enjoyable and fun read all around. i would recommend.

(THIS BOOK WAS A FREE ARC COPY, MY REVIEW IS ALL MY OWN)

[Dixiecowgirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

A journey of discovery that is seen through innocence and wonder.  I loved how adventurous Robbie is and how everything new that he experiences creates a new look for the reader too.  I really enjoyed how cultural norms are explored with gender roles and expectations.  The characters both showed growth and development as they interacted.  I really enjoyed the story-line and the pace was great.  

Robbie and Theo have such a vast gap between them, however it is great to watch them both grow and see Theo take a real interest.  I loved Robbie's courage to explore and find a place for himself that was not pre-determined by his family.  There are lots of plot yet to explore for these guys and i am on to book two. 

This is book one of the Crossing Nuwa Series.  I am looking forward to book two

I was gifted this book from the LesCourt Author Services and i freely give my honest opinion and review.   .  

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robbie has lived his whole life under hiss mother’s thumb. As a rare male snake shifter, he has even his meals decided from him. When he turns eighteen, he knows he will have unspeakable duties and decides to escape. He winds up in San Francisco in the middle of a gay pride parade. Theo spots him and decides this scared young man would be perfect for a one night. Unfortunately, Theo finds more than a one-night stand. Robbie wants everything Theo can offer but knows that his presence in Theo’s life could put him in danger.

Robbie’s life was just one abusive action after another. He was however brave enough to take the step to spend time with Theo and maybe experience life for one week. Theo was a technomage. His abilities were amazing. He could tap into technology with ease. He used that ability to keep track of Robbie and help him. You cannot help but route for a happy ending for these two. They need all the wishes they can get.

[John-Torleif Harris · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to say that I was disappointed in Theo quite a lot in the beginning of this book. He was considerably selfish and immature and nothing like what Robbie needed. He did redeem himself though, and I was impressed with how much growth he seemed to have by the end of the book.

Robbie was so heavily violated that I was physically nauseated, at one point. How did his mother and aunt ever think that they would be able to keep what they had done a secret? If Robbie is being passed around as a stud, surely a race of beings who specialize in recognizing the abuse they had perpetrated wouldn’t have taken long to see what had happened and investigate.

I know that this is the first in a series, but I’m not sure where things might go from here. Robbie and Theo’s story felt very complete, and I can’t think of any of the side characters that might become main characters.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[MariF · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a gamble that paid off for me. After several disappointments this week, this one was a winner.
I've got hooked with the snake shifter premise, snakes are the least used when it comes to PNR.
Romance between a technomage and a snake shifter was off beaten track and piqued my interest.
I loved both MC characters, especially since Theo was not picture-perfect when it came to looks, liked the plot and the writing style. Wringing was done is a smooth flow, adventures exiting and I was never bored.
Did I mention it was a slow-burn romance? I also liked dual POV, it gave me a clear understanding of the feelings each MC was experiencing and the reason they behaved the way they did.
My only grumble that it was a tentative HEA, more like a HFN ending. Makes me think that next in series might pick up where book one has ended.
Looking forward to reading the next in series.