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Tales of Amaranth #1
Dark Heart
In Amaranth, the Wayfarers' Guild attracts all kinds of custom. When Lucan the mage walks into the stable yard with a lame horse in the rain, slave boy Tam runs to serve him -- and soon Tam wants to do nothing else. Ever.
Lucan is demanding, ruthless, devastating, in bed and out: everything Tam ever yearned for in a master. He's also master of the darkest arts, and not blind to Tam's feelings, but heedless of them. Why would a free man care how a slave feels?
When Tam's mistress asks for the mage's help because the guild is under attack, Master Lucan finds other uses for Tam: as a guide to the city, as payment to a demon in hell. But when he doesn't come back to the guildhouse one night, Tam knows the great man is in trouble - and only an insignificant slave boy can save him...
Lucan is demanding, ruthless, devastating, in bed and out: everything Tam ever yearned for in a master. He's also master of the darkest arts, and not blind to Tam's feelings, but heedless of them. Why would a free man care how a slave feels?
When Tam's mistress asks for the mage's help because the guild is under attack, Master Lucan finds other uses for Tam: as a guide to the city, as payment to a demon in hell. But when he doesn't come back to the guildhouse one night, Tam knows the great man is in trouble - and only an insignificant slave boy can save him...
150 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 23, 2008
32 people are currently reading
1400 people want to read
About the author
Thom Lane
12 books85 followersAuthor Thom Lane is an English writer who has published romances and erotica as well as fantasies and other books under other names. In his tales of Amaranth, he is combining as many of those genres as possible…
http://www.loose-id.com/authors/q-t/t...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
June 2, 2013
This is not a romance.
But it's not a dark, nasty story either.
Dark Heart is something else altogether.
In the world of Amaranth, a caste-system is firmly intact. Slaves are regarded as 'soulless' and are more or less on the same footing as domestic animals. This means that from our perspective, the way the 23 year old Tam -- who was once a petty thief until he was caught and collared -- is treated seems harsh. Ever since he is a slave at a guild house, he is fed only once a day, whipped every now and then for no particular reason and must service the guests, sexually and otherwise. It also means that when one stormy night a powerful mage seeks shelter at the guild house and chooses Tam to see to his needs, the boy is very much treated like a pet dog.
When the mistress of the guild house begs his new, temporary master for help in a series of mysterious attacks on the guild, Tam is sucked into a turmoil of events. After an explosion in the city, he secretly watches how the strong, mysterious mage collects stiff, dead bodies and calls back their souls. However, before Tam's curious mind has time to grasp the the definition of a 'necromancer', he gets more than he bargained for as his master decides to drag him into hell as toll money for the demons. After all, if something dreadful is to happen to a slave, it will just be considered collateral damage...
"Which is in Hell, which is where I must go to interrogate it."
"Ah. I see. And the boy?"
"I need - something to pay my way. To buy me answers. An offering. I'll hope to bring him back to you. Be aware, though, I can't guarantee it."
What's interesting is that this isn't a story in which one person consciously chooses to take on a submissive role to 'play'. Or the opposite: in which a main character is forced into slavery and both he and his master realize things could be different. Since slavery is such a normal aspect of Amaranth's culture, the fact that Tam's a slave is never questioned, neither by him or his new master. The mage therefore is entirely dismissive of Tam's feelings and handles him as nonchalantly as a farmer would treat one of his many sheep, not cruel but never particularly caring either. If you can't handle this matter-of-factly inequality very well, Dark Heart can be a somewhat uncomfortable experience.
Although Tam did not strike me as an overly intelligent character and appears, in a way, happy in his submissive role and eager to please his attractive master ("What did I know? I was only a slave. All I wanted was his cock in my mouth."), he shares enough tidbits to give the impression that deep down he is, in fact, not so excited about the cards he is dealt in life.
I would have liked to matter -- to either of them, really -- just a little more than the furniture, but there's no point dreaming. Free men and women value slaves only for their usefulness, and not a penny piece beyond.
Despite several dramatic events in the story that could have forced a break through in the way both characters perceived their society imposed roles -- I know I had anticipated at least a subtle change in the way the mage regarded his slave! -- the author chose to not let his characters explore their possibilities. Despite my vague frustration about this lack of development -- I personally love a dash of friction, conflict and soul-searching in my books -- I must admit that, besides the great writing, the preservation of this 'standstill' is also one of the book's strengths. The author opted for the road less traveled, which resulted in an ever present bittersweet undercurrent to Dark Heart.
Although it's probably clear by now that this is not really one of those books, for those who like their HEA: there is just enough material to ignite your imagination.
Ultimately, Dark Heart is so much more than a fantasy story. It just begs to be chewed on for a while. To be explored from all angles. If you get the chance, make this one a buddy read. These characters and their motives can be interpreted in so many different ways. It's food for discussion!
But it's not a dark, nasty story either.
Dark Heart is something else altogether.
In the world of Amaranth, a caste-system is firmly intact. Slaves are regarded as 'soulless' and are more or less on the same footing as domestic animals. This means that from our perspective, the way the 23 year old Tam -- who was once a petty thief until he was caught and collared -- is treated seems harsh. Ever since he is a slave at a guild house, he is fed only once a day, whipped every now and then for no particular reason and must service the guests, sexually and otherwise. It also means that when one stormy night a powerful mage seeks shelter at the guild house and chooses Tam to see to his needs, the boy is very much treated like a pet dog.
When the mistress of the guild house begs his new, temporary master for help in a series of mysterious attacks on the guild, Tam is sucked into a turmoil of events. After an explosion in the city, he secretly watches how the strong, mysterious mage collects stiff, dead bodies and calls back their souls. However, before Tam's curious mind has time to grasp the the definition of a 'necromancer', he gets more than he bargained for as his master decides to drag him into hell as toll money for the demons. After all, if something dreadful is to happen to a slave, it will just be considered collateral damage...
"Which is in Hell, which is where I must go to interrogate it."
"Ah. I see. And the boy?"
"I need - something to pay my way. To buy me answers. An offering. I'll hope to bring him back to you. Be aware, though, I can't guarantee it."
What's interesting is that this isn't a story in which one person consciously chooses to take on a submissive role to 'play'. Or the opposite: in which a main character is forced into slavery and both he and his master realize things could be different. Since slavery is such a normal aspect of Amaranth's culture, the fact that Tam's a slave is never questioned, neither by him or his new master. The mage therefore is entirely dismissive of Tam's feelings and handles him as nonchalantly as a farmer would treat one of his many sheep, not cruel but never particularly caring either. If you can't handle this matter-of-factly inequality very well, Dark Heart can be a somewhat uncomfortable experience.
Although Tam did not strike me as an overly intelligent character and appears, in a way, happy in his submissive role and eager to please his attractive master ("What did I know? I was only a slave. All I wanted was his cock in my mouth."), he shares enough tidbits to give the impression that deep down he is, in fact, not so excited about the cards he is dealt in life.
I would have liked to matter -- to either of them, really -- just a little more than the furniture, but there's no point dreaming. Free men and women value slaves only for their usefulness, and not a penny piece beyond.
Despite several dramatic events in the story that could have forced a break through in the way both characters perceived their society imposed roles -- I know I had anticipated at least a subtle change in the way the mage regarded his slave! -- the author chose to not let his characters explore their possibilities. Despite my vague frustration about this lack of development -- I personally love a dash of friction, conflict and soul-searching in my books -- I must admit that, besides the great writing, the preservation of this 'standstill' is also one of the book's strengths. The author opted for the road less traveled, which resulted in an ever present bittersweet undercurrent to Dark Heart.
Although it's probably clear by now that this is not really one of those books, for those who like their HEA: there is just enough material to ignite your imagination.
Ultimately, Dark Heart is so much more than a fantasy story. It just begs to be chewed on for a while. To be explored from all angles. If you get the chance, make this one a buddy read. These characters and their motives can be interpreted in so many different ways. It's food for discussion!
April 8, 2014
not much in the way of story, but compelling anyway.
I found myself utterly revolted by slave culture, and the behavior of sundry characters up to and including Master Lucan made me want to throw up.
The sex is hot, if a little brief.
Whipping isn't my kink, but the writing is competent, and the setting interesting.
Wish there'd been more to the story than this, though.
I found myself utterly revolted by slave culture, and the behavior of sundry characters up to and including Master Lucan made me want to throw up.
The sex is hot, if a little brief.
Whipping isn't my kink, but the writing is competent, and the setting interesting.
Wish there'd been more to the story than this, though.
September 16, 2010
Romance? Absolutely not. Erotica? Definitely. BDSM? Also absolutely not; no, this is dubcon at best, abuse, and a slave in an absolutely unvarnished world (good for the author for not painting real slavery with a pretty brush) grabbing on to the slightest hint of happiness he can cling to--violent and callous as it often was--and calling it love. That being said, it was also hot and remarkably well written. The prose is artful, the worldbuilding was brilliant, the plot secondary to the characters but still entertaining. I was left feeling kind of oily and unpleasant at the very end--you'll almost certainly know why when you get there--and reminded of how awful the whole situation really is despite the prot's claim to happiness, but I was also left wishing it hadn't ended quite so soon. I'll be picking up the next book in the series for sure.
February 10, 2017
5 delicious stars!!!
I wrote a looooong review of Dark Heart yesterday, with pics and quotes and everything and then... something crushed and my almost finished review disappeared... :(
So, shorter version this time, sorry!
That book got to my "absolute favourites" shelf and I gave it 5 stars because it's exactly what I expected and needed - it's 150 pages of smut, intertwined with some mystery and perfect for me to indulge in my "slave" kink!!! :)
Don't expect anything epic - it's mostly kinky sex between a gruff, little grumpy, dark and dangerous Master Mage Lucan and a Wayfarers' Guild's slave, brave, pretty Tam who will risk punishment and even his life to help the Mage. Even if he can't hope to belong to somebody as perfect as Lucan.
Master Mage Lucan:
Tam:
The world-building isn't overly developed but it provides all the necessary details.
The mystery to be solved is not very complicated and innovative - but I think it served well to "fill in" the space between the *ahem* bedroom scenes... ;)
You must be also aware that Lucan is a truly rough Master, he's always carrying his switch to correct the sweet houseboy and he metes out his punishments freely. But Tam craves that strong hand, he yearns for Lucan's manhandling him - his cuffs, clips, shoves and pushes...
There can also be no love between a freeman, let alone a Master Mage, and a lowly, "idiot slaveboy" but... As Tam says, he "saw something in his eyes, not a softness but a sharp affection" and so we know that Lucan is not as blind to Tam's devotion as he seems to be... ;)
The best sum-up for our MCs:
"You will find me a strict master, and very demanding."
I swallowed, and mumbled, "Yes, Master," and still couldn't have wished for anything else. I wanted to tell him so, to say that he was more than I'd ever dreamed of, but masters aren't interested in confessions of love.
Nor do they make them.
So, if you're looking for a hot and kinky, quick read with a rough Master/slave dynamic - something to feel good after some angsty, more thought-provoking books, and you don't expect high fantasy, but rather some entertaining and easy, magical "mystery story" - go for it!!! I can recommend it to all the Master/slave junkies (like me) :D
I wrote a looooong review of Dark Heart yesterday, with pics and quotes and everything and then... something crushed and my almost finished review disappeared... :(
So, shorter version this time, sorry!
That book got to my "absolute favourites" shelf and I gave it 5 stars because it's exactly what I expected and needed - it's 150 pages of smut, intertwined with some mystery and perfect for me to indulge in my "slave" kink!!! :)
Don't expect anything epic - it's mostly kinky sex between a gruff, little grumpy, dark and dangerous Master Mage Lucan and a Wayfarers' Guild's slave, brave, pretty Tam who will risk punishment and even his life to help the Mage. Even if he can't hope to belong to somebody as perfect as Lucan.
Master Mage Lucan:
Tam:
The world-building isn't overly developed but it provides all the necessary details.
The mystery to be solved is not very complicated and innovative - but I think it served well to "fill in" the space between the *ahem* bedroom scenes... ;)
You must be also aware that Lucan is a truly rough Master, he's always carrying his switch to correct the sweet houseboy and he metes out his punishments freely. But Tam craves that strong hand, he yearns for Lucan's manhandling him - his cuffs, clips, shoves and pushes...
There can also be no love between a freeman, let alone a Master Mage, and a lowly, "idiot slaveboy" but... As Tam says, he "saw something in his eyes, not a softness but a sharp affection" and so we know that Lucan is not as blind to Tam's devotion as he seems to be... ;)
The best sum-up for our MCs:
"You will find me a strict master, and very demanding."
I swallowed, and mumbled, "Yes, Master," and still couldn't have wished for anything else. I wanted to tell him so, to say that he was more than I'd ever dreamed of, but masters aren't interested in confessions of love.
Nor do they make them.
So, if you're looking for a hot and kinky, quick read with a rough Master/slave dynamic - something to feel good after some angsty, more thought-provoking books, and you don't expect high fantasy, but rather some entertaining and easy, magical "mystery story" - go for it!!! I can recommend it to all the Master/slave junkies (like me) :D
March 7, 2011
Whip fetish can be overwhelming sometimes...
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So what can I say about this AMAZING D/S (Dominance and submission) story?
Collared submissive slave:
checkStrong mysterious master:
checkFull immersion in cold bath more than one time was needed:
certainly CHECKAll book is (YEY) the slave point of view, Tam.
I can tell much. Tam will talk to you, and his submissive mind is perfect! He will described the dark and mysterious mage arriving to the guild of Amaranth, and with time (more or less, half book) FINALLY you will know everything about the HOT Master Lucan (Tam will only identify the mage sign, what kind of mage no).
Lucan is... perfect... I love his strong hand, and his amazing power!
Attention if you are not used to D/S with hardcore BDSM. It's not veeeeeeery violent but there is a lot of back head slaps...
whips, bondage, leash, butt plug, endearments (like "slut", hahahahaha) and allllllllllll GOOD stuff of the BDSM world
If you want to start to know about BDSM (specifically D/S) try something less "violent" or (like I did, when I was starting) read books like this one, just to get over the first shock of read about a boy being called "slut".... being beaten... collared... and happy in love never wanting another life!
5 stars book in my view, and I'm already reading the second of this serie!
February 15, 2017
Well, this book was a conglomerate of everything I find disgusting, unpleasant and boring. Why did I think I might have liked it? Because I do like some slavery stories! But not this one, no. I kinda feel bewildered right now what I was supposed to feel while/after reading it. Both main characters are repulsive, even though in a different way, and their relationship... well, it fits their personalities, so good luck to them but... ouch, shudder.
April 4, 2013
Despite the cover and title, this is a decidedly un-dark read. I suppose as far as Gaymance goes, it's also a bit of a strange read. It's romance, yet I'm not sure you can soundly classify as that. When it comes to slavery in M/M Romance, there's usually that certain point in the book when social class, differences or anything really don't matter in the face of their love.In that respect, Dark Heart is different. The gap between their social classes is there and even at the end of the book, it's almost certainly clear that the gap will always be there.
In saying that though, it seems logical to think that this is a pretty intense, depressing read. But it's not really (and this is coming from a fluff addict). They both understand their position and the relationship (though I hesitate to call it that) works. Though it seems almost crude to call this thing between them love. I certainly don't know any couples who would use each other as a payment to the gateway of hell-- literally.
In the end, their relationship is one of slave and master, with a maybe-love on both sides. . Also, the tone of the book itself is pretty fluffy.
Overall it's a good and interesting read. Incredibly light-weight and easy to whiz through.
In saying that though, it seems logical to think that this is a pretty intense, depressing read. But it's not really (and this is coming from a fluff addict). They both understand their position and the relationship (though I hesitate to call it that) works. Though it seems almost crude to call this thing between them love. I certainly don't know any couples who would use each other as a payment to the gateway of hell-- literally.
In the end, their relationship is one of slave and master, with a maybe-love on both sides. . Also, the tone of the book itself is pretty fluffy.
Overall it's a good and interesting read. Incredibly light-weight and easy to whiz through.
November 3, 2012
Reviewed on Hearts On Fire... http://heartsonfirereviews.com/
Wow, just wow, this rather dark and harsh book was amazing in its treatment of the reality of total slavery. To be a slave in Amaranth is to be as replaceable as a piece of paper and worth just about as much. Tam is a slave in the Wayfarer's Guild house and while being owned by a guild house may seem like a better than average place to be owned, it is not. A slave is only worth as much as they are capable of doing and the slave quickly learns their place at the bottom of the ladder or dies. Tam has resigned himself to his fate and while his outlook is bleak, it is totally realistic. He is assigned to the Master Mage Lucian while Lucian stays at the guild house doing a job for the Guild Mistress. Someone is out to ruin the Wayfarer's Guild and that person can only be a Mage with a strong hold on some power. Lucian's slightest whim is Tam's command whether it be for sex or an arm and the slightest disobedience results in a harsh beating. Lucian dragged Tam literally through hell, offered him to a demon and used as a sex toy yet Tam actually seems to enjoy being Lucian's slave despite the beatings and abuse. The world building in this story was excellent and I applaud Mr. Lane for the way he developed the slave's mentality toward his life situation and the caste system within slavery itself. Having the story narrated by Tam was a stroke of genius because I got to see Amaranth from the level of the dirt looking up. This is not a BDSM story in my opinion because the slave or sub has no choice in his/her bondage, the choice of a Dom, the length of servitude or contract or even a safe word. This story is strictly a master/slave story with no room for doubt. The only thing that bothered me was that even though Tan was 23 years old, he was still called "boy" or "young one" which often made me feel like I was reading kiddie porn. While I found myself totally immersed in the quality of the writing and the content of the story, I had to keep reminding myself that Tam was a grown man when I started to get uncomfortable with Mr. Lane's wording. This book is without a doubt not for everyone but if your tastes run toward a dose of very well written master/slave fantasy then I recommend this book highly.
Wow, just wow, this rather dark and harsh book was amazing in its treatment of the reality of total slavery. To be a slave in Amaranth is to be as replaceable as a piece of paper and worth just about as much. Tam is a slave in the Wayfarer's Guild house and while being owned by a guild house may seem like a better than average place to be owned, it is not. A slave is only worth as much as they are capable of doing and the slave quickly learns their place at the bottom of the ladder or dies. Tam has resigned himself to his fate and while his outlook is bleak, it is totally realistic. He is assigned to the Master Mage Lucian while Lucian stays at the guild house doing a job for the Guild Mistress. Someone is out to ruin the Wayfarer's Guild and that person can only be a Mage with a strong hold on some power. Lucian's slightest whim is Tam's command whether it be for sex or an arm and the slightest disobedience results in a harsh beating. Lucian dragged Tam literally through hell, offered him to a demon and used as a sex toy yet Tam actually seems to enjoy being Lucian's slave despite the beatings and abuse. The world building in this story was excellent and I applaud Mr. Lane for the way he developed the slave's mentality toward his life situation and the caste system within slavery itself. Having the story narrated by Tam was a stroke of genius because I got to see Amaranth from the level of the dirt looking up. This is not a BDSM story in my opinion because the slave or sub has no choice in his/her bondage, the choice of a Dom, the length of servitude or contract or even a safe word. This story is strictly a master/slave story with no room for doubt. The only thing that bothered me was that even though Tan was 23 years old, he was still called "boy" or "young one" which often made me feel like I was reading kiddie porn. While I found myself totally immersed in the quality of the writing and the content of the story, I had to keep reminding myself that Tam was a grown man when I started to get uncomfortable with Mr. Lane's wording. This book is without a doubt not for everyone but if your tastes run toward a dose of very well written master/slave fantasy then I recommend this book highly.
January 28, 2011
As some people have said in reviews, this is not a typical m/m romance.
Amaranth is a place where there are only 2 kinds of people - slaves and the free. Slaves seem to be valued, in as much as they do vital work, but easily replaced if they die, and pretty much on a social level with domesticated animals.
Tam is a Slave in a guildhouse, and luckily for him he has a very submissive mentality, and so it seems to work out for him. He lives very much in the moment, which I liked about him. He thinks very positively about the little things, an extra bit of food, or an extra moment of sleep seems to make him content. And he never thinks of forming an attatchment, or looking to the future, until Master Lucan comes along.
Master Lucan is a fairly well drawn character (considering its not his POV). He's he's a well respected and feared mage, but with a little bit of a rebelious streak in him. He seems to have a fondness for Tam, but shows it not much more than you would show preference for a favourite pet or horse, and he does beat him for disobedience. But I love how you can see the affection underneath things. He is not cruel, it is simply a product of the culture of Amaranth, where slaves and free men can never be equal.
I really liked this storry, and my main disappointment, was the ending. It was a great ending in its own way, but I really wanted to see more of Tam and Lucan, and I found the next in the series is about another couple entirely. But I'll read that one soon anyhow, as the world is fascinating, and the writing is very good :)
See my other reviews of the Tales of Amaranth series:
#2 Healing Heart →
Amaranth is a place where there are only 2 kinds of people - slaves and the free. Slaves seem to be valued, in as much as they do vital work, but easily replaced if they die, and pretty much on a social level with domesticated animals.
Tam is a Slave in a guildhouse, and luckily for him he has a very submissive mentality, and so it seems to work out for him. He lives very much in the moment, which I liked about him. He thinks very positively about the little things, an extra bit of food, or an extra moment of sleep seems to make him content. And he never thinks of forming an attatchment, or looking to the future, until Master Lucan comes along.
Master Lucan is a fairly well drawn character (considering its not his POV). He's he's a well respected and feared mage, but with a little bit of a rebelious streak in him. He seems to have a fondness for Tam, but shows it not much more than you would show preference for a favourite pet or horse, and he does beat him for disobedience. But I love how you can see the affection underneath things. He is not cruel, it is simply a product of the culture of Amaranth, where slaves and free men can never be equal.
I really liked this storry, and my main disappointment, was the ending. It was a great ending in its own way, but I really wanted to see more of Tam and Lucan, and I found the next in the series is about another couple entirely. But I'll read that one soon anyhow, as the world is fascinating, and the writing is very good :)
See my other reviews of the Tales of Amaranth series:
#2 Healing Heart →
July 13, 2018
I love this series..... this first book is not available on Amazon and with Loose ID closing, if you haven't read it or don't own it yet, now is the time to buy it direct from LID while you still have the chance...
This series is NOW AVAILABLE ON KU - all 8 books!!!
I read this back in 2008. I almost never re-read books but I'm re-reading this whole series since it looks like the next book is finally coming out at some point soon from Loose ID and I've missed Amaranth.
The reviews for it are already succinct and tell you what I would. It's a non romanticized, practical slave story with adventure, sex, reward and punishment, magic and distinctive world building. Amaranth seems like a real place to me.
The author bio says he writes in many different genres under different names. I believe it. The writing style is exactly for me. I love it.
On to the next book in the series.
This series is NOW AVAILABLE ON KU - all 8 books!!!
I read this back in 2008. I almost never re-read books but I'm re-reading this whole series since it looks like the next book is finally coming out at some point soon from Loose ID and I've missed Amaranth.
The reviews for it are already succinct and tell you what I would. It's a non romanticized, practical slave story with adventure, sex, reward and punishment, magic and distinctive world building. Amaranth seems like a real place to me.
The author bio says he writes in many different genres under different names. I believe it. The writing style is exactly for me. I love it.
On to the next book in the series.
April 14, 2013
Major spoiler below.
This is a story about a little male slave who falls in love with a studly visitor to the castle where he lives. It's suppose to be erotica but it's kind of sad really, because It was interesting enough though if you like m/m D/s kind of stories. You can be heartened that the little feller just loved serving the dude...even if he was treated like crap.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2023
I've read the first three in this series now and I don't know when I last found love stories so simultaneously compelling and disturbing.
The only other fully realized slavefic I've ever read is maculategiraffe's "Slave Breakers," so a few words about that. (The first section is on the AO3, but for the whole massive thing you have to go to the author's livejournal [yes, really], and I can't recommend it highly enough.) In "Slave Breakers" slavery is institutionalized and universal, but the fic's perspective treats it as a problem from the outset, and it seems inevitable and (from a narrative POV as well as a moral POV) right that the story ends in an emancipation movement.
Since I haven't read all the Tales of Amaranth (yet), I can't say for sure, but the first three books give no hint that any of the characters see slavery as in any way questionable; because Thom Lane is a fantastically good writer, the effect is immersive to the point of claustrophobia. A slave in an unhappy condition meets a master whom he falls in love with and with whom he winds up, and the net result is something like TPE only with no contract, no safeword, no exit. The "E" in TPE might not even belong, because the slave has no power to exchange. Not that the slaves are mindlessly submissive, exactly; they seem to accept the requirement of total obedience, but they find a little air (there's that claustrophobia again!) around the edges, in the affectionate relationship with their eventual master/lover, where some playfulness and kindness emerge -- within strict and narrow limits.
I have a few questions about the worldbuilding (the slaves are always barefoot, which would make the soles of their feet hard as rocks, which is out of keeping with the protagonists' "beautiful boy" [young man, actually] quality); still, I'm drawn in. There's a lot of sex, and it's hot -- lord, is it hot! -- but there's also plot. A real plot, more than just a scaffolding on which to hang the sex.
And ... I am so troubled by these books. I don't think anything I've read before has so challenged my convictions about the morality of fiction: that people may write and read whatever pleases them without judgment. Enjoying murder mysteries doesn't make one a murderer. Enjoying these books doesn't make me find real-world slavery any less repugnant. Maybe the trouble is that the slavery in these books is, if possible, even uglier than real-world slavery, so to be drawn in feels complicit.
I'm so unsettled. I told myself after the second book that it was time for a breather, and then what did I do a few hours later? I read the third.
The only other fully realized slavefic I've ever read is maculategiraffe's "Slave Breakers," so a few words about that. (The first section is on the AO3, but for the whole massive thing you have to go to the author's livejournal [yes, really], and I can't recommend it highly enough.) In "Slave Breakers" slavery is institutionalized and universal, but the fic's perspective treats it as a problem from the outset, and it seems inevitable and (from a narrative POV as well as a moral POV) right that the story ends in an emancipation movement.
Since I haven't read all the Tales of Amaranth (yet), I can't say for sure, but the first three books give no hint that any of the characters see slavery as in any way questionable; because Thom Lane is a fantastically good writer, the effect is immersive to the point of claustrophobia. A slave in an unhappy condition meets a master whom he falls in love with and with whom he winds up, and the net result is something like TPE only with no contract, no safeword, no exit. The "E" in TPE might not even belong, because the slave has no power to exchange. Not that the slaves are mindlessly submissive, exactly; they seem to accept the requirement of total obedience, but they find a little air (there's that claustrophobia again!) around the edges, in the affectionate relationship with their eventual master/lover, where some playfulness and kindness emerge -- within strict and narrow limits.
I have a few questions about the worldbuilding (the slaves are always barefoot, which would make the soles of their feet hard as rocks, which is out of keeping with the protagonists' "beautiful boy" [young man, actually] quality); still, I'm drawn in. There's a lot of sex, and it's hot -- lord, is it hot! -- but there's also plot. A real plot, more than just a scaffolding on which to hang the sex.
And ... I am so troubled by these books. I don't think anything I've read before has so challenged my convictions about the morality of fiction: that people may write and read whatever pleases them without judgment. Enjoying murder mysteries doesn't make one a murderer. Enjoying these books doesn't make me find real-world slavery any less repugnant. Maybe the trouble is that the slavery in these books is, if possible, even uglier than real-world slavery, so to be drawn in feels complicit.
I'm so unsettled. I told myself after the second book that it was time for a breather, and then what did I do a few hours later? I read the third.
January 20, 2010
I gave Dark Heart 4 out of 5 stars because the writing is first rate and I would recommend it to others for that alone, but the story seemed incomplete to me and here is why:
Dark Heart takes place in a 17th century european society where magic is real and locals can be captured and sold into slavery.
The story follows Tam, a young man who was forced into slavery for a mercantile guild. As a slave, he is treated harshly, fed scrapes, beaten regularly and forced to do hard labor as well as sexually service guild guests.
One day, a mage named Lucan arrives and Tam is assigned to him. Lucan is handsome and mysterious and through a series of adventures, they develop an emotional and sexual bond.
I was cool with all of this. I have no problem with dubious content in stories, power exchanges (master/slave) or depictions of violence (whipping etc.), but what fell flat for me was the happy ending.
Lucan buys Tam, but they are essentially in the same position they were in at the beginning of the story. Tam is in love with Lucan, but Lucan still sees Tam as less than human and plans to continue treating him that way.
If Tam got a sexual high from being abused that would be one thing… but Tam despairs about his maltreatment throughout the book, so just because he is now in love with his abuser, doesn’t seem like progress.
I feel a more complete story arc would have been for Lucan to recognize Tam’s humanity at the end, and either offer to free him (at which time Tam would have the choice to freely serve Lucan from now on) or have Lucan declare that his was going to treat his slave with dignity going forward… now that would have shown some emotional growth on the part of both characters.
Right now, Dark Heart just strikes me as a great journey that unfortunately leaves us in the same place we started.
Dark Heart takes place in a 17th century european society where magic is real and locals can be captured and sold into slavery.
The story follows Tam, a young man who was forced into slavery for a mercantile guild. As a slave, he is treated harshly, fed scrapes, beaten regularly and forced to do hard labor as well as sexually service guild guests.
One day, a mage named Lucan arrives and Tam is assigned to him. Lucan is handsome and mysterious and through a series of adventures, they develop an emotional and sexual bond.
I was cool with all of this. I have no problem with dubious content in stories, power exchanges (master/slave) or depictions of violence (whipping etc.), but what fell flat for me was the happy ending.
Lucan buys Tam, but they are essentially in the same position they were in at the beginning of the story. Tam is in love with Lucan, but Lucan still sees Tam as less than human and plans to continue treating him that way.
If Tam got a sexual high from being abused that would be one thing… but Tam despairs about his maltreatment throughout the book, so just because he is now in love with his abuser, doesn’t seem like progress.
I feel a more complete story arc would have been for Lucan to recognize Tam’s humanity at the end, and either offer to free him (at which time Tam would have the choice to freely serve Lucan from now on) or have Lucan declare that his was going to treat his slave with dignity going forward… now that would have shown some emotional growth on the part of both characters.
Right now, Dark Heart just strikes me as a great journey that unfortunately leaves us in the same place we started.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2022
FINALLY! A book that made me FEEL things. I've been in a reading slump and desperately needed a book that can make me feel things. This little gem right here did. I cried a few times while reading this book. The intense emotions described in this book is beautiful and heartwrenching. The intense push and pull between the characters and all that ANGSTY goodness are everything that I love and look for in mm romance. So glad I found a book that made me feel again.
November 1, 2010
I don't know whether to give this a 3 or a 5 so I settled on a 4. The first half of this book was slow and then you are thrown into the last half abruptly and things pick up. Lucan is a mage and mages are feared. He comes to stay at the guild house when his horse goes laim on his way out of the city. Tam is a slave who serves the guild house The guild house is under attach from an unknown enemy and Lucan is hired to find out who.
This is told in the first person, which I don't mind. So this is told from Tam's point of view as he serves Lucan. You learn what Tam's life is like as a slave, how he handles harsh dealing and shrugs them off as a common occurrence, a way of life, and still tries to find something good about it. Tam still mourns the loss of his freedom, though he would deny it. As you read the first half you get to know him, like him and feel for him.
I do not think that Tom Lane could write Lucan in any way that would cause me to start liking him. I despise Lucan. If I was walking down the street and saw Lucan walking my way, I would go out of my way to run into him and cause him as much harm as I could. Though he would probably magic my hiney to ash when I did. Lucan may look at and see Tam, may remember his name and allow certain small liberties that slaves should not take but he still drug Tam through the gates of hell as a possible gift, knowing that one small misstep and Tam would be lost. Lucan allowed and added to severe punishment given to Tam after Tam saved his life. From that point forward there is nothing that Lucan can do to redeem himself in my eyes. I am finished with the book and I am still furious.
Even with that sense of betrayal, Tam still loves Lucan. So now I have to find time to squeeze book two into my reading list. I need to know if Tam ever gets anything more. Maybe I will get to see Lucan roast or something.
This is told in the first person, which I don't mind. So this is told from Tam's point of view as he serves Lucan. You learn what Tam's life is like as a slave, how he handles harsh dealing and shrugs them off as a common occurrence, a way of life, and still tries to find something good about it. Tam still mourns the loss of his freedom, though he would deny it. As you read the first half you get to know him, like him and feel for him.
I do not think that Tom Lane could write Lucan in any way that would cause me to start liking him. I despise Lucan. If I was walking down the street and saw Lucan walking my way, I would go out of my way to run into him and cause him as much harm as I could. Though he would probably magic my hiney to ash when I did. Lucan may look at and see Tam, may remember his name and allow certain small liberties that slaves should not take but he still drug Tam through the gates of hell as a possible gift, knowing that one small misstep and Tam would be lost. Lucan allowed and added to severe punishment given to Tam after Tam saved his life. From that point forward there is nothing that Lucan can do to redeem himself in my eyes. I am finished with the book and I am still furious.
Even with that sense of betrayal, Tam still loves Lucan. So now I have to find time to squeeze book two into my reading list. I need to know if Tam ever gets anything more. Maybe I will get to see Lucan roast or something.
September 27, 2008
This is a terrific book for those interested in m/m erotica in a fantasy setting. Amaranth is another world, where slavery is commonplace, and magic exists. The blurb for the book is pretty clear about the plot, so I won't try to summarize any more on that.
From the very first paragraph, I knew this was an author I could trust to tell a good story. Although I would consider this a character driven story, the plot was still very well scripted, and the pace kept me focused on not just finding out more about the Tam and Lucan, but also on what was going to happen next. The writing is strong, the style masculine and crisp... Tam's voice is well developed and his personality sparkled in the dark world he existed in.
Let me just say that I loved these men! Tam was so open, and his story just drew me in. He was very comfortable with himself, and accepting of his situation. I adored him. I want meet him, and I just know he could be my best friend.
And Lucan just gave me shivers. (the good kind) He had wry kind of understanding and caring that showed through his sternness... and the mystery of who he was and what he planned kept me as fascinated by him as Tam was.
This boook definately has a BDSM theme, and is wonderfully erotic. There's a darkness to the world of Amaranth, that is fascinating, and I can't wait to explore it more! I highly reccomend this book! Its going on my top "keeper-shelf" for many more re-reads.
From the very first paragraph, I knew this was an author I could trust to tell a good story. Although I would consider this a character driven story, the plot was still very well scripted, and the pace kept me focused on not just finding out more about the Tam and Lucan, but also on what was going to happen next. The writing is strong, the style masculine and crisp... Tam's voice is well developed and his personality sparkled in the dark world he existed in.
Let me just say that I loved these men! Tam was so open, and his story just drew me in. He was very comfortable with himself, and accepting of his situation. I adored him. I want meet him, and I just know he could be my best friend.
And Lucan just gave me shivers. (the good kind) He had wry kind of understanding and caring that showed through his sternness... and the mystery of who he was and what he planned kept me as fascinated by him as Tam was.
This boook definately has a BDSM theme, and is wonderfully erotic. There's a darkness to the world of Amaranth, that is fascinating, and I can't wait to explore it more! I highly reccomend this book! Its going on my top "keeper-shelf" for many more re-reads.
December 28, 2010
Master and Slave - this was disturbing on many levels mostly for the ingenious worldbuilding. Amaranth isn't our world, our morale and ethics in medieval garb. It's an entirely different world, with a different morale where human slaves really are nothing more than soulless beings. Consequently, the relationship between the magician and the slave is in the beginning more something like a master and his pet dog. I could easily relate to Tam falling in love with Lucan, from the way Tam sees himself. Tam is a slave at heart, he needs someone to look after him and he needs to serve. So he's like a pet who loves its master unconditionally even though the master treats it cruelly at times. What I couldn't see is Lucan falling in love with Tam; even though Tam saved Lucan's life, I can't see him becoming more to Lucan than a treasured, useful animal, very much like Lucan's horse. Time will tell if those two can ever have a balanced relationship, if Tam can ever be the one for Lucan like Lucan is for him. Then again, as I said above, this is a different world, perhaps they don't need what I, who am not an inhabitant of their cultural circle, think necessary for happiness? I was more than reluctant to leave Amaranth, and I'd dearly love to see more from Lucan and Tam.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
December 14, 2009
Dark Heart by Thom Lane was an absolutely magic fantasy read. Excellent world building with a sexy, servile slave boy and hot, badass mage. I loved this book and cannot believe I’ve not picked it up before now. The cover alone is enough to send me back for a second look. hehe. I loved the world the author created, even though I periodically wanted the slaves to rise up, the whole in service thing did rather appeal to my kink. I thought the ending was well done too and not wrapped up in a bow. Has me with fingers crossed that there might be more! A very good read that is well worth picking up. You can purchase here at ARe or Fictionwise is particularly cheap at the moment.
http://sharrow.wordpress.com/2009/12/...
http://sharrow.wordpress.com/2009/12/...
December 22, 2014
This was a great read. It was like a kinky David Eddings. The world that was created was believable with no consistency issues to shatter the illusion. Although the sex was graphic & frequent, it was so intrinsic to the story that it avoided being gratuitous. I would highly recommend this book for lovers of fantasy...even if you aren't a lover of BDSM, this book works as a whole & you can't imagine it without the sexual slavery. If you liked this book you might also enjoy books written by Brent Weeks.
August 21, 2013
The writing was excellent and engaging but the subject matter was so hard for me to read that I couldn't give it a higher rating. I didn't realize when I started that it was going to be about slaves and how they were treating worse than animals. It must say something that I couldn't stop reading it though.
January 2, 2017
I'm looking forward to getting my teeth into this series, though as mentioned before, I was a bit disappointment to learn that Tam and Lucan aren't the MC's in each of the books. Still very enjoyable though and I've started on the next already.
March 4, 2010
4.5 stars
What is it about these kinds of stories that makes me so squirmy?? (In a good way that is.) I may never know.
What is it about these kinds of stories that makes me so squirmy?? (In a good way that is.) I may never know.
January 28, 2011
4.5 stars
This book wasn't anything like I thought it would be. I thought it was going to be so dark that I might have even felt a little dirty after reading it but it surprisingly wasn't. Lol.
I will say that I don't consider this BDSM. Not even light BDSM and it's not even really a romance but it does have a HEA, kinda. Although, the slave does fall in love with his Master, the Master only shows a fondness for the slave but he's still a cruel Master when all is said and done.
I liked Tam. He's a cute, good, little slave, at least most of the time. All he's ever wanted since he's become a slave is to belong to one strong man he can please and call Master. Then Master Mage Lucan shows up and Tam is quick to do everything Lucan wants. Lucan is a cruel man, though, being a necromancer, and a lot of people fear him because of his Master Mage reputation and status. Lucan instantly takes a liking to Tam and in the process Tam falls for the feared mage.
I really liked the plot. It was interesting learning about the world. How there is magic and guildhouses and chapterhouses. It's definitely a fantasy with a little mix of historical in it. I especially liked how Lucan was asked to find out why a sudden occurrence of attacks and thefts have happened. In the process, Lucan uses Tam to help him. Tam goes from a slave boy to a sacrifice to a slave boy to a rescuer all in a few days.
The only thing I had a problem with, which is probably really stupid considering Lucan never made any promises to Tam, was how Lucan would take pleasure from basically anyone. If he was taking a bath, he'd take one of the bath girls, etc. Now, we don't actually see any of this since the book is in first person and from Tam's pov but Tam talks about how no doubt Lucan is with one of the other slaves. Then there is a scene where Tam checks on Lucan while he's sleeping and there's a girl curled up next to him. I just didn't like it. I could have lived without those little remarks from Tam and that one scene.
All in all, I really liked the book. I'm definitely going to read the rest of the series and I hope one day we learn more about Tam and Lucan. However, even though this isn't a dark read, I still wouldn't recommend it to anyone that has a problem with whippings or if you like your characters to be strictly monogamous (in the sense that you don't even like it when there's remarks about unfaithfulness, however indirectly made, even between masters and slaves. Does that make sense?) But for everyone else, definitely recommended. [image error]
This book wasn't anything like I thought it would be. I thought it was going to be so dark that I might have even felt a little dirty after reading it but it surprisingly wasn't. Lol.
I will say that I don't consider this BDSM. Not even light BDSM and it's not even really a romance but it does have a HEA, kinda. Although, the slave does fall in love with his Master, the Master only shows a fondness for the slave but he's still a cruel Master when all is said and done.
I liked Tam. He's a cute, good, little slave, at least most of the time. All he's ever wanted since he's become a slave is to belong to one strong man he can please and call Master. Then Master Mage Lucan shows up and Tam is quick to do everything Lucan wants. Lucan is a cruel man, though, being a necromancer, and a lot of people fear him because of his Master Mage reputation and status. Lucan instantly takes a liking to Tam and in the process Tam falls for the feared mage.
I really liked the plot. It was interesting learning about the world. How there is magic and guildhouses and chapterhouses. It's definitely a fantasy with a little mix of historical in it. I especially liked how Lucan was asked to find out why a sudden occurrence of attacks and thefts have happened. In the process, Lucan uses Tam to help him. Tam goes from a slave boy to a sacrifice to a slave boy to a rescuer all in a few days.
The only thing I had a problem with, which is probably really stupid considering Lucan never made any promises to Tam, was how Lucan would take pleasure from basically anyone. If he was taking a bath, he'd take one of the bath girls, etc. Now, we don't actually see any of this since the book is in first person and from Tam's pov but Tam talks about how no doubt Lucan is with one of the other slaves. Then there is a scene where Tam checks on Lucan while he's sleeping and there's a girl curled up next to him. I just didn't like it. I could have lived without those little remarks from Tam and that one scene.
All in all, I really liked the book. I'm definitely going to read the rest of the series and I hope one day we learn more about Tam and Lucan. However, even though this isn't a dark read, I still wouldn't recommend it to anyone that has a problem with whippings or if you like your characters to be strictly monogamous (in the sense that you don't even like it when there's remarks about unfaithfulness, however indirectly made, even between masters and slaves. Does that make sense?) But for everyone else, definitely recommended. [image error]
October 15, 2011
I have to admit that after the first chapter and a half I thought I wouldn't like this story at all. Tam is a slave in a world where people are taught that slaves have no soul. Master Lucan is a mage whom Tam desires more than anything else. The mage doesn't treat Tam with a special regard, he is not gentle or caring, there's nothing of that. Tam is a tool he uses for his pleasure and to perform the material tasks a slave must perform. Nothing romantic.
It was difficult to accept Tam's devotion for this ruthless being, so I had to change my expectations. I focused on the beautiful and evocative writing and on the dark world building. I also understood that I couldn't judge Tam's feeling from an ordinary point of view, but that I had to accept Tam's feelings and needs. His relationship with Lucan is not balanced, it's not a two-way relationship were there's something given and something taken, but Tam finds a way to be fulfilled, he sets his eyes and his needs and his heart on Lucan and pursues the man in the only way he can: by servicing him.
Even if he is at the bottom of that society, Tam is attached to life and he takes his decisions knowing very well the dangers and punishments he will face. He doesn't shy away from them, on the contrary, he is brave and courageous. At the end, that bit of recklessness, that molecule of freedom he snatches away, earn him what he craves for.
When compared to him, the tall, dark and dangerous mage seems a bit dumb. So at the end what I have to say is: Go Tam!
It was difficult to accept Tam's devotion for this ruthless being, so I had to change my expectations. I focused on the beautiful and evocative writing and on the dark world building. I also understood that I couldn't judge Tam's feeling from an ordinary point of view, but that I had to accept Tam's feelings and needs. His relationship with Lucan is not balanced, it's not a two-way relationship were there's something given and something taken, but Tam finds a way to be fulfilled, he sets his eyes and his needs and his heart on Lucan and pursues the man in the only way he can: by servicing him.
Even if he is at the bottom of that society, Tam is attached to life and he takes his decisions knowing very well the dangers and punishments he will face. He doesn't shy away from them, on the contrary, he is brave and courageous. At the end, that bit of recklessness, that molecule of freedom he snatches away, earn him what he craves for.
When compared to him, the tall, dark and dangerous mage seems a bit dumb. So at the end what I have to say is: Go Tam!
December 20, 2010
This book was amazing!
Not your conventional bdsm m/m novel I have to say in advance, but not less enjoyable.Quite on the contrary: The story is told from Tam's POV. Tam is a slave at the Wayfarer's Guild in the imaginary city of Amaranth and his life seems to be taking a new turn when a powerful dark Mage, Master Lucan comes along...
What I enjoyed most in the story was Tam's inner thoughts and feelings and how he assessed his situation as a slave at the guildhouse--his personal story so far.His narrative was sweet and humorous and sad at points. The tale reminded me of the "Sleeping Beauty" series of books a bit cause of the imaginary setting of the whole story, which is taking place in a world where people are divided betweem free(therefore Masters)and slave.
Master Luke was ruthless,dark and devoid of feelings, at least the façade.I couldn't help imagining Snape as Mage Luke in my head. Was it only me or has HP fanfiction spoiled me? :p
I would have wished that the book was a longer read--I didn't want it to end so soon :/. But maybe Thom Lane will write more stories starring Tam in the future? I know there are more books in the same series, but I don't think Tam is in them. Anyways, 5 stars from me for this lovely book ^__^
ETA: I forgot to mention: The book-cover just makes my mouth water!
Not your conventional bdsm m/m novel I have to say in advance, but not less enjoyable.Quite on the contrary: The story is told from Tam's POV. Tam is a slave at the Wayfarer's Guild in the imaginary city of Amaranth and his life seems to be taking a new turn when a powerful dark Mage, Master Lucan comes along...
What I enjoyed most in the story was Tam's inner thoughts and feelings and how he assessed his situation as a slave at the guildhouse--his personal story so far.His narrative was sweet and humorous and sad at points. The tale reminded me of the "Sleeping Beauty" series of books a bit cause of the imaginary setting of the whole story, which is taking place in a world where people are divided betweem free(therefore Masters)and slave.
Master Luke was ruthless,dark and devoid of feelings, at least the façade.I couldn't help imagining Snape as Mage Luke in my head. Was it only me or has HP fanfiction spoiled me? :p
I would have wished that the book was a longer read--I didn't want it to end so soon :/. But maybe Thom Lane will write more stories starring Tam in the future? I know there are more books in the same series, but I don't think Tam is in them. Anyways, 5 stars from me for this lovely book ^__^
ETA: I forgot to mention: The book-cover just makes my mouth water!
September 2, 2010
Wow - just wow. I've never read anything remotely like this book and though, I've also never read anything about slaves either, I can honestly say this book was fantastic. It was so well-written, so well plotted, the characters were enthralling for both their rawness and their heart.
Tam was such an abused little guy really, but having him be so accepting to what his life was all about was both heart-breaking and beautiful. Lucan was a strong, manly-man and I loved that he was able to show his heart in a few scenes. The end made my heart pitter patter in a very good way.
I'd highly recommend it even if it isn't your regular read.
Tam was such an abused little guy really, but having him be so accepting to what his life was all about was both heart-breaking and beautiful. Lucan was a strong, manly-man and I loved that he was able to show his heart in a few scenes. The end made my heart pitter patter in a very good way.
I'd highly recommend it even if it isn't your regular read.
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January 18, 2011There is a dark part of me that loves stories that are about losing, relinquishing, or never having control. This is 'slave-fic' and although it has strong D/s and S/M themes, it is essentially about a non-consensual relationship. Not for everyone's tastes, but for those who enjoy this fantasy, the prose is tight and lush, the world-building flawless, and the story behind the kink interesting and well-executed. Among my top five in the m/m genre.
July 23, 2012
Loved it .. .. really grabs and drags you into a fantasy world where the men are strong and know what they want, and the slaves seem unusually accepting and well suited to their status. Well written, good words and good pace.
July 27, 2010
This was a very clever world and I enjoyed reading about Tam very much! What an eager guy he was! And Master Luke was suitably aloof and very smexy! Great story!
September 7, 2017
2.5 stars rounded up. Just wasn't a good fit for me. The relationship didn't develop beyond non-monogamous non-consensual Master/slave. Lots of whipping and hitting, by both freemen and other slaves.
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