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Homecoming
Spaceman meets wolfman.
When his own world is destroyed, Aldiss and his crew barely manage to escape, leaving friends and lovers behind. What was meant to be an exploratory trip back to the home world becomes a mad dash for survival.
When they awaken from deep sleep on Earth, abandoned by humanity five centuries before, they must quickly learn about their new home. While exploring the region around the ship, Aldiss meets Hari, a human-wolf hybrid, whose people harbor secrets which just might cost the crew their lives.
Will Hari and Aldiss uncover the secrets of the past and find common ground? Or are Aldiss and his team doomed to failure?
This book was originally published by Less Than 3 Press. This is an updated edition with some additional content.
When his own world is destroyed, Aldiss and his crew barely manage to escape, leaving friends and lovers behind. What was meant to be an exploratory trip back to the home world becomes a mad dash for survival.
When they awaken from deep sleep on Earth, abandoned by humanity five centuries before, they must quickly learn about their new home. While exploring the region around the ship, Aldiss meets Hari, a human-wolf hybrid, whose people harbor secrets which just might cost the crew their lives.
Will Hari and Aldiss uncover the secrets of the past and find common ground? Or are Aldiss and his team doomed to failure?
This book was originally published by Less Than 3 Press. This is an updated edition with some additional content.
103 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2015
23 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
J. Scott Coatsworth
90 books188 followersScott lives with his husband in a leafy Sacramento, California suburb, in a cute yellow house with a pair of pink flamingoes in the front yard.
He has always been in the place between the here and now and the what could be. He started reading science fiction and fantasy at the tender age of nine, encouraged by his mother. But as he read the golden age classics and more modern works too, he started to wonder where all the queer people were.
When Scott came out at 23, he decided he wanted to create the kinds of stories he couldn't find at the bookstore. If there weren't gay characters in his favorite genres, he would reimagine them, filling them with a diverse universe of characters. He'd remake them to his own ends, and if he was lucky enough, someone would even want to read them.
Scott's brain works a little differently from most folks - he sees connections where others don't. Born an introvert, he learned how to reach outside himself and connect with other queer folks.
Scott's fiction defies expectations, transforming traditional science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary worlds into something fresh and surprising. He also created both Queer Sci Fi and QueeRomance Ink with his husband Mark, and is an associate member of the Science Fiction Writer's Association (SFWA).
His writing, both romance and genre fiction, brings a queer energy to his work, infusing them with love, beauty and strength and making them fly. He imagines how the world could be, and maybe changes the world that is, just a little.
Scott was recognized as one of the top new gay authors in the 2017 Rainbow Awards, and his debut novel "Skythane" received two awards and an honorable mention.
He has always been in the place between the here and now and the what could be. He started reading science fiction and fantasy at the tender age of nine, encouraged by his mother. But as he read the golden age classics and more modern works too, he started to wonder where all the queer people were.
When Scott came out at 23, he decided he wanted to create the kinds of stories he couldn't find at the bookstore. If there weren't gay characters in his favorite genres, he would reimagine them, filling them with a diverse universe of characters. He'd remake them to his own ends, and if he was lucky enough, someone would even want to read them.
Scott's brain works a little differently from most folks - he sees connections where others don't. Born an introvert, he learned how to reach outside himself and connect with other queer folks.
Scott's fiction defies expectations, transforming traditional science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary worlds into something fresh and surprising. He also created both Queer Sci Fi and QueeRomance Ink with his husband Mark, and is an associate member of the Science Fiction Writer's Association (SFWA).
His writing, both romance and genre fiction, brings a queer energy to his work, infusing them with love, beauty and strength and making them fly. He imagines how the world could be, and maybe changes the world that is, just a little.
Scott was recognized as one of the top new gay authors in the 2017 Rainbow Awards, and his debut novel "Skythane" received two awards and an honorable mention.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 23, 2015
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was an interesting short story with a well conceived premise. I like how the idea of werewolves was worked into the science fiction style story. I also liked how bigger ideas, and concepts played into the story it added depth to the story even if it was a bit heavy handed in spots. The werewolves were interesting, and I liked how their culture, and society worked. I think the relationship stuff was a bit too quick, and it felt a little bit too much like insta love for my taste especially considering how broken Aldiss was by loss, and grief. I also think Aldiss was a bit too quick to overcome the taboos of his relationship with Hari . Overall a nice short story that I might have enjoyed a bit more had it been a bit longer, and a bit more time given to the development of the bond between Hari and Aldiss.
This was an interesting short story with a well conceived premise. I like how the idea of werewolves was worked into the science fiction style story. I also liked how bigger ideas, and concepts played into the story it added depth to the story even if it was a bit heavy handed in spots. The werewolves were interesting, and I liked how their culture, and society worked. I think the relationship stuff was a bit too quick, and it felt a little bit too much like insta love for my taste especially considering how broken Aldiss was by loss, and grief. I also think Aldiss was a bit too quick to overcome the taboos of his relationship with Hari . Overall a nice short story that I might have enjoyed a bit more had it been a bit longer, and a bit more time given to the development of the bond between Hari and Aldiss.
June 15, 2015
This short story is intriguing -- if only it is longer so it could give it enough space for progress and development of both story and characters.
There are two main conflicts in "The Homecoming". First, it's Aldiss's tale. Aldiss Harlson goes to Earth with his crew after his planet, Antana, is destroyed. I thought the short length didn't give enough time for me to feel connected to Aldiss's struggle in this new world. It also didn't give enough time for me to care for his crew -- yes, especially his crew. It would be nice to be able to form an attachment to them, .
The second part is Hari's conflict with some of his pack members. I thought the pack's politic when it comes to Hari and his dam versus current clan leader-family was probably more fleshed out than Aldiss's. Without being fully explained, I could still grasp the ripples that happened within the pack, especially when the arrival of Aldiss and his crew in their woods.
The romance, unfortunately, suffered the most because it felt unfounded and rushed. There was not enough built-up that could ease readers into their relationship -- which was a bit of a pity because I firmly believe that Aldiss and Hari would make a great couple.
The strength of this story came from the description. I though Coatsworth did a very good job in describing the scenery -- the woods, the cold, even the wonderment from both Hari's eyes when he first discovered 'the two-legs' or Aldiss when he heard the cries of the wolves. I could imagine it easily, and I even thought it would make a good TV movie, emphasizing in the visual. This was my first experience with the author, but I can see myself reading future stories from J. Scott Coatsworth.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
There are two main conflicts in "The Homecoming". First, it's Aldiss's tale. Aldiss Harlson goes to Earth with his crew after his planet, Antana, is destroyed. I thought the short length didn't give enough time for me to feel connected to Aldiss's struggle in this new world. It also didn't give enough time for me to care for his crew -- yes, especially his crew. It would be nice to be able to form an attachment to them, .
The second part is Hari's conflict with some of his pack members. I thought the pack's politic when it comes to Hari and his dam versus current clan leader-family was probably more fleshed out than Aldiss's. Without being fully explained, I could still grasp the ripples that happened within the pack, especially when the arrival of Aldiss and his crew in their woods.
The romance, unfortunately, suffered the most because it felt unfounded and rushed. There was not enough built-up that could ease readers into their relationship -- which was a bit of a pity because I firmly believe that Aldiss and Hari would make a great couple.
The strength of this story came from the description. I though Coatsworth did a very good job in describing the scenery -- the woods, the cold, even the wonderment from both Hari's eyes when he first discovered 'the two-legs' or Aldiss when he heard the cries of the wolves. I could imagine it easily, and I even thought it would make a good TV movie, emphasizing in the visual. This was my first experience with the author, but I can see myself reading future stories from J. Scott Coatsworth.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
July 2, 2019
Nice enough little short. A little on the insta-love side, but many shorts are.
July 30, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
1.5 stars
The Homecoming was rather a challenging read for a variety of different reasons. It moves quickly and there isn’t much downtime between scenes. Normally I appreciate a quick paced plot, but here the narrative suffers from too little exposition. Primary plot points are glossed over and the characters are never fully developed. The overall plot should have been interesting, but it became quickly apparent that The Homecoming has no sense of identity. It simply has no idea what it wants to be. Sometimes it’s Planet of the Apes and sometimes its Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome. It’s a werewolf tale and a love story and a science fiction romp and does none of these very well. Combining all of those ideas would be difficult to make work within the context of a novel, but when wedged into a short story the result is a jumbled, predictable mess that fails to either make much sense or to entertain.
Very little about The Homecoming comes off as original. Instead it’s a loose collection of worn out and underdeveloped themes. The areas that do spark interest, such as the fact the wolf pack is human during the summer and shift to wolves during the winter, are never fully explained. We are never given much information about any of the rituals, rites, or aspects of pack life that are suggested to be important. Aldiss and Hari had potential to be intriguing characters, but both are just this side of being stick figures. We know almost nothing about them as individuals and we’re given no relationship development. Instead the author appears to rely on the rather tired idea of fated mating. I’ve seen this concept done well, but here it is given no real life and because the author never really explores anything beyond this, there isn’t much of a spark between the main characters. Everything about Aldiss and Hari’s bond feels very rout and forced rather than meaningful.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
1.5 stars
The Homecoming was rather a challenging read for a variety of different reasons. It moves quickly and there isn’t much downtime between scenes. Normally I appreciate a quick paced plot, but here the narrative suffers from too little exposition. Primary plot points are glossed over and the characters are never fully developed. The overall plot should have been interesting, but it became quickly apparent that The Homecoming has no sense of identity. It simply has no idea what it wants to be. Sometimes it’s Planet of the Apes and sometimes its Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome. It’s a werewolf tale and a love story and a science fiction romp and does none of these very well. Combining all of those ideas would be difficult to make work within the context of a novel, but when wedged into a short story the result is a jumbled, predictable mess that fails to either make much sense or to entertain.
Very little about The Homecoming comes off as original. Instead it’s a loose collection of worn out and underdeveloped themes. The areas that do spark interest, such as the fact the wolf pack is human during the summer and shift to wolves during the winter, are never fully explained. We are never given much information about any of the rituals, rites, or aspects of pack life that are suggested to be important. Aldiss and Hari had potential to be intriguing characters, but both are just this side of being stick figures. We know almost nothing about them as individuals and we’re given no relationship development. Instead the author appears to rely on the rather tired idea of fated mating. I’ve seen this concept done well, but here it is given no real life and because the author never really explores anything beyond this, there isn’t much of a spark between the main characters. Everything about Aldiss and Hari’s bond feels very rout and forced rather than meaningful.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
May 3, 2017
ALDISS AND his crew crash land on a forgotten Earth, expecting it to be abandoned after hundreds of years. Their own world is destroyed, and now Earth is their only chance for a new start. But it’s winter, the climate is harsh, and Earth is not as forgotten as they thought. The inhabitants also may not be as open to new arrivals as Adliss’s crew hopes.
I loved this book. The setup was interesting, and the characters were engaging. I loved how spacemen and werewolves collided: technology meets primal Earth. First contact between the two groups of humans was thrilling and fun. I loved Hari, one of the wolfmen. His simple ways blow Aldiss’s mind, show him a new path, and change his life forever. Hari was easily my favorite, and I’m sure he’ll be a favorite of many other readers. He has sort of a primal innocence, and may I say, he was very sexy-sounding. I’ll bet he’s a wild cat—er, dog?—in bed. Woof.
This is a great short read, and a complete standalone story. There was so much wonderful world-building and depth to the characters that I wanted to stay in the world a while longer, but I know that Coatsworth is working on many new ideas and terrific stories for us. I can’t wait to read them.
Coatsworth has quite a few short stories and novellas out—even some free reads. Check out his website/blog: http://www.jscottcoatsworth.com.
Besides having his own website, Coatsworth is also the founder of QSF, a social group devoted to LGBTQ+ Speculative Fiction. Readers, writers, and science fiction/fantasy lovers can gather to talk about social issues, have their work critiqued, recommend reads, and make new like-minded friends. Check out their website: http://queerscifi.com.
-------------------------------------
B. A. Brock is a reviewer for DSP and QSF. He enjoys reading, writing, running, family and food, and fills his life with bent bunk. He especially loves to discuss LGBTQ+ literature. His website is http://www.babrockbooks.com.
I loved this book. The setup was interesting, and the characters were engaging. I loved how spacemen and werewolves collided: technology meets primal Earth. First contact between the two groups of humans was thrilling and fun. I loved Hari, one of the wolfmen. His simple ways blow Aldiss’s mind, show him a new path, and change his life forever. Hari was easily my favorite, and I’m sure he’ll be a favorite of many other readers. He has sort of a primal innocence, and may I say, he was very sexy-sounding. I’ll bet he’s a wild cat—er, dog?—in bed. Woof.
This is a great short read, and a complete standalone story. There was so much wonderful world-building and depth to the characters that I wanted to stay in the world a while longer, but I know that Coatsworth is working on many new ideas and terrific stories for us. I can’t wait to read them.
Coatsworth has quite a few short stories and novellas out—even some free reads. Check out his website/blog: http://www.jscottcoatsworth.com.
Besides having his own website, Coatsworth is also the founder of QSF, a social group devoted to LGBTQ+ Speculative Fiction. Readers, writers, and science fiction/fantasy lovers can gather to talk about social issues, have their work critiqued, recommend reads, and make new like-minded friends. Check out their website: http://queerscifi.com.
-------------------------------------
B. A. Brock is a reviewer for DSP and QSF. He enjoys reading, writing, running, family and food, and fills his life with bent bunk. He especially loves to discuss LGBTQ+ literature. His website is http://www.babrockbooks.com.
January 20, 2016
Aldiss and his crew barely escaped their planet’s destruction. With nowhere else to go, they return to the long abandoned Earth. There they meet the human survivors of Earth who have become wolf shifters.
This novella is only 20,000 words. The amount of world building that Scott accomplishes in those words is gorgeous. This is why I read sci-fi. He hints and pieces of the world Aldiss came from. We see enough of their tech to get an idea of their society, but not so much that it feels like a catalog of cool things the author thought up. And then we get the whole of the Earth civilization. Hari and his tribe have a fully fleshed out society. There is even a reasonable explanation for the cause and function of the shifting. I was so impressed with this world. I don’t even have words. And the story, the meeting of these two men, Hari and Aldiss, becomes the interaction and relationship between these two cultures. It’s not just a fish out of water story, or a lone survivors on a harsh alien world, though it is those things. But more than that, it is these two men finding the commonality in their histories and making a future that can save both their people. Not so much a romance as a coming together.
So, that is the thing, this is not a romance. Don’t read it thinking it is one. The two characters get together… but it’s almost incidental and doesn’t really improve the story. I get it as a symbol of the union of the two peoples, but fated mating will never be my thing and here it wasn’t really explored deep enough to even make me try to buy it.
I enjoyed this story. I think it was tremendously successful in most ways, romance just wasn’t one of them. But it is still so worth the read. I am excited to read some longer work from Scott Coatsworth.
This novella is only 20,000 words. The amount of world building that Scott accomplishes in those words is gorgeous. This is why I read sci-fi. He hints and pieces of the world Aldiss came from. We see enough of their tech to get an idea of their society, but not so much that it feels like a catalog of cool things the author thought up. And then we get the whole of the Earth civilization. Hari and his tribe have a fully fleshed out society. There is even a reasonable explanation for the cause and function of the shifting. I was so impressed with this world. I don’t even have words. And the story, the meeting of these two men, Hari and Aldiss, becomes the interaction and relationship between these two cultures. It’s not just a fish out of water story, or a lone survivors on a harsh alien world, though it is those things. But more than that, it is these two men finding the commonality in their histories and making a future that can save both their people. Not so much a romance as a coming together.
So, that is the thing, this is not a romance. Don’t read it thinking it is one. The two characters get together… but it’s almost incidental and doesn’t really improve the story. I get it as a symbol of the union of the two peoples, but fated mating will never be my thing and here it wasn’t really explored deep enough to even make me try to buy it.
I enjoyed this story. I think it was tremendously successful in most ways, romance just wasn’t one of them. But it is still so worth the read. I am excited to read some longer work from Scott Coatsworth.
April 4, 2017
Great story wish it was longer
September 25, 2019
Originally posted on Tales to Tide You Over
This novella has almost more story in the hints and surrounds than on the page, but what makes the cut was enough to keep me interested. It’s a culture clash, power struggle, gay love story, which might sound crowded, but builds on each piece to form a compelling tale with a surprising twist or two.
The basic premise is post-galactic diaspora, a tiny group of survivors from a dying planet return to Earth. The plan had been for them to scope it out as an escape route for their people, but their world’s destruction begins before they get off the ground. Earth, however, is both healthier, and more occupied, than they expected. Their exploration turned survivor group is attacked by wolves almost as soon as they leave the temporary shelter of their sinking vessel.
While a surprise to the new arrivals, the reader has already met the werewolves. That’s not quite the right descriptor for the wolf-human hybrids, though. They were created in an attempt to survive the environmental collapse on Earth, running parallel to the ships that left to colonize the stars centuries ago.
We meet Hari, the other main character, in the opening scene as he navigates an uncomfortable power balance, setting a clear foundation for the conflicts and decisions to come. The current leader ousted Hari’s mother from the pack leadership over differences in philosophy some time ago. How the newly arrived two-legged beings are handled shows this, but it’s present in other situations as well.
Hari wants to learn more about the newcomers, but even he is not expecting how his encounter with Aldiss will affect him. Nothing comes easy to these two, and the attraction brings other parts of Hari’s life to a head.
The wolves have traditions and a culture with its own unique elements though they maintain an approximation of the same language. Where Aldiss grew up surrounded by technology, Hari’s people have an almost mystic connection to their planet and their ancestors. The contrast and the detail for both is part of what makes this seem like the tip of an iceberg as far as the world is concerned. Since it’s a novella, you probably guessed I could see places that might have been more fleshed out, but that’s also true of many novels. Nothing necessary felt skimped for all I would have enjoyed seeing more.
The author uses verb tense to separate wolf form from human form, something it took me a bit to pick up on, but once I figured it out, I could follow the changes better. Not my preference in approach, but it was a mild distraction in so much fascinating interplay. There is also an open-door encounter, but revealing this is not much of a spoiler for Hari and Aldiss because of where the scene appears. I would have called the novella a tragedy not a love story, otherwise.
This novella is about the mix that comes with any group of people. Whether among the new arrivals or those who shed their human form to survive the cold, there is a wide range of dispositions and biases that can change the path of a world…or two.
I enjoyed the culture clash and negotiation along with the recognition a united front is unlikely. As I said in the beginning, there’s so much to explore within this world that it left me full of questions more because the world caught my attention than because the story needed anything. The novella reaches a satisfying conclusion, and the author’s sure to find other tales waiting if he chooses to return.
P.S. This is an expanded and revised edition of the story released by Less Than 3 Press.
This novella has almost more story in the hints and surrounds than on the page, but what makes the cut was enough to keep me interested. It’s a culture clash, power struggle, gay love story, which might sound crowded, but builds on each piece to form a compelling tale with a surprising twist or two.
The basic premise is post-galactic diaspora, a tiny group of survivors from a dying planet return to Earth. The plan had been for them to scope it out as an escape route for their people, but their world’s destruction begins before they get off the ground. Earth, however, is both healthier, and more occupied, than they expected. Their exploration turned survivor group is attacked by wolves almost as soon as they leave the temporary shelter of their sinking vessel.
While a surprise to the new arrivals, the reader has already met the werewolves. That’s not quite the right descriptor for the wolf-human hybrids, though. They were created in an attempt to survive the environmental collapse on Earth, running parallel to the ships that left to colonize the stars centuries ago.
We meet Hari, the other main character, in the opening scene as he navigates an uncomfortable power balance, setting a clear foundation for the conflicts and decisions to come. The current leader ousted Hari’s mother from the pack leadership over differences in philosophy some time ago. How the newly arrived two-legged beings are handled shows this, but it’s present in other situations as well.
Hari wants to learn more about the newcomers, but even he is not expecting how his encounter with Aldiss will affect him. Nothing comes easy to these two, and the attraction brings other parts of Hari’s life to a head.
The wolves have traditions and a culture with its own unique elements though they maintain an approximation of the same language. Where Aldiss grew up surrounded by technology, Hari’s people have an almost mystic connection to their planet and their ancestors. The contrast and the detail for both is part of what makes this seem like the tip of an iceberg as far as the world is concerned. Since it’s a novella, you probably guessed I could see places that might have been more fleshed out, but that’s also true of many novels. Nothing necessary felt skimped for all I would have enjoyed seeing more.
The author uses verb tense to separate wolf form from human form, something it took me a bit to pick up on, but once I figured it out, I could follow the changes better. Not my preference in approach, but it was a mild distraction in so much fascinating interplay. There is also an open-door encounter, but revealing this is not much of a spoiler for Hari and Aldiss because of where the scene appears. I would have called the novella a tragedy not a love story, otherwise.
This novella is about the mix that comes with any group of people. Whether among the new arrivals or those who shed their human form to survive the cold, there is a wide range of dispositions and biases that can change the path of a world…or two.
I enjoyed the culture clash and negotiation along with the recognition a united front is unlikely. As I said in the beginning, there’s so much to explore within this world that it left me full of questions more because the world caught my attention than because the story needed anything. The novella reaches a satisfying conclusion, and the author’s sure to find other tales waiting if he chooses to return.
P.S. This is an expanded and revised edition of the story released by Less Than 3 Press.
August 10, 2015
3.5 Stars, I think.
This one was pretty good, with interesting and engaging world-building considering its short length. I was entertained. :3 The characters were engaging and the plot was well written. I think some of the interaction and even some of the culture was a bit harried which definitely came across in some instances, especially getting towards the end, but all in all, I would read this again.
I think it would benefit from being a bit longer so some of the backstory/history can be better integrated into the tale instead of just thrust on the reader, AND the characters, at the very last minute.
This one was pretty good, with interesting and engaging world-building considering its short length. I was entertained. :3 The characters were engaging and the plot was well written. I think some of the interaction and even some of the culture was a bit harried which definitely came across in some instances, especially getting towards the end, but all in all, I would read this again.
I think it would benefit from being a bit longer so some of the backstory/history can be better integrated into the tale instead of just thrust on the reader, AND the characters, at the very last minute.
August 18, 2019
Something different
This is a quick story full of action. It had a good sense of place and I liked the characters. Spaceman meets Wolfman.
This is a quick story full of action. It had a good sense of place and I liked the characters. Spaceman meets Wolfman.
January 28, 2022
Not enough!!
Okay the author is gay. Fine I do not have an issue with that. Some of my best friends are gay. No problem at all.
However, as the story unfolded, it became clear that the focus was on the gay characters rather than producing a decent story to read. The excitement was tenuous and lacked credibility.
Not enough focus on Cat and the rest of the clan. There was really very little to hold me and feel as if the story meant so little to the author.
The story was far too short, and in parts felt rushed. This story needs more depth to it. It has the basis for being a really good read. More attention should have been given to other characters, and the history of the clan with some trials and tribulations. For me the story felt lacking in detail. Nothing wrong with the overall format. It just needs more!!!
Okay the author is gay. Fine I do not have an issue with that. Some of my best friends are gay. No problem at all.
However, as the story unfolded, it became clear that the focus was on the gay characters rather than producing a decent story to read. The excitement was tenuous and lacked credibility.
Not enough focus on Cat and the rest of the clan. There was really very little to hold me and feel as if the story meant so little to the author.
The story was far too short, and in parts felt rushed. This story needs more depth to it. It has the basis for being a really good read. More attention should have been given to other characters, and the history of the clan with some trials and tribulations. For me the story felt lacking in detail. Nothing wrong with the overall format. It just needs more!!!
January 28, 2019
I did not know what to expect with this novella but I've got a great mix of SciFi with paranormal and dystopia.
Who new they can be mixed in a such poetic way and in a such short story?
I loved the writing style, the descriptions of ship crush, the desperation of wolf-people (I'm not even sure they should be called shifters since they don't think themselves as human), the lore, the struggle to survive harsh winter and internal pack leadership upheaval.
I was enchanted and was sorry when the story ended. I wished it was longer. And such a fantastic tongue-in-cheek twist that ties Earth population with the offworlders.
This story is off your beaten track and I valued it's uniqueness.
Who new they can be mixed in a such poetic way and in a such short story?
I loved the writing style, the descriptions of ship crush, the desperation of wolf-people (I'm not even sure they should be called shifters since they don't think themselves as human), the lore, the struggle to survive harsh winter and internal pack leadership upheaval.
I was enchanted and was sorry when the story ended. I wished it was longer. And such a fantastic tongue-in-cheek twist that ties Earth population with the offworlders.
This story is off your beaten track and I valued it's uniqueness.
July 4, 2015
I'm not sure what to say about this book/story honestly. I think the bottom line is that I was interested in the story, and even the characters to a point, but it was very poorly executed. This read like fanfic as opposed to a polished and published piece, which is highly unfortunate.
So, let's hit come major points:
Premise. Good idea! The major draw was the idea of the human/wolf shapeshifters. Unfortunately the way the story was written relied totally on suspension of belief, as any background information or backstory for this group was saved for the very end of the book. Instead of crafting an interesting story for the wolf group, the author instead opted form "Hey, here's some wolf shapeshifters! Everyone likes wolves! Shapeshifters are popular!" and just ran with that.
Characters. I really liked most of the characters, especially Aldiss. The way he was introduced was great, and really pulled me in. His emotional reaction to losing his lover before the ship took off, and the weight of responsibility he felt once they landed was real, and very well written. Similarly, Hari, the main character on the shapeshifter side was also introduced well (save for a few irregularities). The pack dynamics played into his character presentation and made me interested in how he was going to progress. The downside to both these characters is that while they started out well, after that, they were static and flat. Both made decisions throughout the book that was seemingly random and had little to do with their initially presented personalities. This left me with a feeling of "Well, ok...." every time they did something random. These characters didn't grow at all after their initial presentation, which is sad because there was potential there. :(
Sex. This isn't usually a category I comment on, as it's most often wrapped into the story, but in this story it was just...used kind of oddly. First there was the comments from Hari about how he had fantasies about being with the pack leader, who in the same breath was described to be overbearing and cruel. OK, fetish maybe? There there was the initial meeting between Hari and Aldiss which was just bizarre, and started the breakdown of the Aldiss character. He went from being sad about his lost love, to "Hey, some random guy kissed me and acted really odd, I'm really horny now and want to get in his pants!" Even their first sexual encounter was odd, as soon as they both were physically able, they just fell into bed and started fucking. And that's what it was, the way the author wrote it. No development, no lead up, just a really out of place hard sex scene. Just story, story, story, and suddenly cock! Fucking! Ass pounding! Grunting! Yeah! There was some severe disconnect going on, and overall the sex/attraction between these two characters was the main problem to their development and was what caused their lack of development.
Pacing and Style. Both these were good. The story was laid out well, there wasn't too much down time, and is was smooth. Similarly, the author's style was clean. The writing is what saved this book, but also what contributed to my disappointment. There is clearly skill here, but the execution was just lacking.
Final verdict: While I know this is a short story and not a full length novel, there wasn't any balance between what the intent was ans the length of the story. If you want to create good characters, you have to give them the time they need and develop them over time, not just in their introduction, or keep them out of situations that are going to make them seem inconsistent and unbelievable, because that tanks the story. :(
So, let's hit come major points:
Premise. Good idea! The major draw was the idea of the human/wolf shapeshifters. Unfortunately the way the story was written relied totally on suspension of belief, as any background information or backstory for this group was saved for the very end of the book. Instead of crafting an interesting story for the wolf group, the author instead opted form "Hey, here's some wolf shapeshifters! Everyone likes wolves! Shapeshifters are popular!" and just ran with that.
Characters. I really liked most of the characters, especially Aldiss. The way he was introduced was great, and really pulled me in. His emotional reaction to losing his lover before the ship took off, and the weight of responsibility he felt once they landed was real, and very well written. Similarly, Hari, the main character on the shapeshifter side was also introduced well (save for a few irregularities). The pack dynamics played into his character presentation and made me interested in how he was going to progress. The downside to both these characters is that while they started out well, after that, they were static and flat. Both made decisions throughout the book that was seemingly random and had little to do with their initially presented personalities. This left me with a feeling of "Well, ok...." every time they did something random. These characters didn't grow at all after their initial presentation, which is sad because there was potential there. :(
Sex. This isn't usually a category I comment on, as it's most often wrapped into the story, but in this story it was just...used kind of oddly. First there was the comments from Hari about how he had fantasies about being with the pack leader, who in the same breath was described to be overbearing and cruel. OK, fetish maybe? There there was the initial meeting between Hari and Aldiss which was just bizarre, and started the breakdown of the Aldiss character. He went from being sad about his lost love, to "Hey, some random guy kissed me and acted really odd, I'm really horny now and want to get in his pants!" Even their first sexual encounter was odd, as soon as they both were physically able, they just fell into bed and started fucking. And that's what it was, the way the author wrote it. No development, no lead up, just a really out of place hard sex scene. Just story, story, story, and suddenly cock! Fucking! Ass pounding! Grunting! Yeah! There was some severe disconnect going on, and overall the sex/attraction between these two characters was the main problem to their development and was what caused their lack of development.
Pacing and Style. Both these were good. The story was laid out well, there wasn't too much down time, and is was smooth. Similarly, the author's style was clean. The writing is what saved this book, but also what contributed to my disappointment. There is clearly skill here, but the execution was just lacking.
Final verdict: While I know this is a short story and not a full length novel, there wasn't any balance between what the intent was ans the length of the story. If you want to create good characters, you have to give them the time they need and develop them over time, not just in their introduction, or keep them out of situations that are going to make them seem inconsistent and unbelievable, because that tanks the story. :(
August 3, 2016
I read this as an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, in exchange for an honest review.
I was very charmed by the cover, which is beautiful, and the abstract since it raised a lot of questions and seemed like an interesting story, I was looking forward to learn how it had been handled. Unfortunately, I think it could have be so much better.
I had a hard time getting into the book and the characters, because not a whole of it made sense. And I’m not talking about the sci-fi and fantasy elements, as much as logic. The main character, Aldiss, wakes up in his spaceship that just crashed and starts putting his three friends out of stasis. It’s going to take a little time to wake up so… he decides to go out and explore the area where they crashed. Without any weapon, and without checking if the air is breathable because “they’d be exposed to everything there sooner or later.” Yeah, but dying might be better if it happened later. What doesn’t make any sense is the fact that he goes out alone when he’s got three other persons waking up soon. And that happens several times in the book, people going alone to explore a planet they know nothing about (spoiler: it rarely ends well).
The fact that these three characters are here just for show is another thing that irked me - litterally, they don’t serve the story much, and the main character barely interacts with any of them - I think we’re offered two sentences from Xandra, a female character, and maybe four sentences from Cat, another female character, for the whole novella. I couldn’t connect with Aldiss because he doesn’t connect with anyone actually, we’re told about his feelings, they’re not shown, and then again it’s hard to believe because his grief is never really dealt with.
And, I have to say it, there is no chemistry between Aldiss and Hari, the romantic interest. Well, romantic wouldn’t describe it well, basically when they meet instead of wondering “wow what the hell is this new specie and what are they doing and do we speak the same language, maybe they’re dangerous, oh, and I almost died / saved him from a certain death” or anything that would make sense, they pop bonners. I kid you not. Nothing about their “relationship” felt real, or sexy or beautiful. Even the sex scene irked me (literally six small paragraphs, like with all the boners they’re popping you might think it’s building up to something but no, you get six awful paragraphs).
The fact that I’m so disappointed probably has to do with the idea for the story being pretty awesome. I love stories about shape-shifters, especially when they’re “reversed” and live more as animals than as humans. I really like how the mythology about these shape-shifters is treated and how it gives us small details so we can learn little by little a lot about them, how they live, their hierarchy and all that. I thought what we learn about them at the end was a bit far-fetched (the fact that they were engineered by humans, to go live on another planet? Like, what purpose does that serve?) and one discovery at the end just bothered me. I really liked Hari’s point of view, about his clan / pack and the woods: the scenery descriptions are beautiful and it’s easy to see the snowy landscapes that are described.
I was very charmed by the cover, which is beautiful, and the abstract since it raised a lot of questions and seemed like an interesting story, I was looking forward to learn how it had been handled. Unfortunately, I think it could have be so much better.
I had a hard time getting into the book and the characters, because not a whole of it made sense. And I’m not talking about the sci-fi and fantasy elements, as much as logic. The main character, Aldiss, wakes up in his spaceship that just crashed and starts putting his three friends out of stasis. It’s going to take a little time to wake up so… he decides to go out and explore the area where they crashed. Without any weapon, and without checking if the air is breathable because “they’d be exposed to everything there sooner or later.” Yeah, but dying might be better if it happened later. What doesn’t make any sense is the fact that he goes out alone when he’s got three other persons waking up soon. And that happens several times in the book, people going alone to explore a planet they know nothing about (spoiler: it rarely ends well).
The fact that these three characters are here just for show is another thing that irked me - litterally, they don’t serve the story much, and the main character barely interacts with any of them - I think we’re offered two sentences from Xandra, a female character, and maybe four sentences from Cat, another female character, for the whole novella. I couldn’t connect with Aldiss because he doesn’t connect with anyone actually, we’re told about his feelings, they’re not shown, and then again it’s hard to believe because his grief is never really dealt with.
And, I have to say it, there is no chemistry between Aldiss and Hari, the romantic interest. Well, romantic wouldn’t describe it well, basically when they meet instead of wondering “wow what the hell is this new specie and what are they doing and do we speak the same language, maybe they’re dangerous, oh, and I almost died / saved him from a certain death” or anything that would make sense, they pop bonners. I kid you not. Nothing about their “relationship” felt real, or sexy or beautiful. Even the sex scene irked me (literally six small paragraphs, like with all the boners they’re popping you might think it’s building up to something but no, you get six awful paragraphs).
The fact that I’m so disappointed probably has to do with the idea for the story being pretty awesome. I love stories about shape-shifters, especially when they’re “reversed” and live more as animals than as humans. I really like how the mythology about these shape-shifters is treated and how it gives us small details so we can learn little by little a lot about them, how they live, their hierarchy and all that. I thought what we learn about them at the end was a bit far-fetched (the fact that they were engineered by humans, to go live on another planet? Like, what purpose does that serve?) and one discovery at the end just bothered me. I really liked Hari’s point of view, about his clan / pack and the woods: the scenery descriptions are beautiful and it’s easy to see the snowy landscapes that are described.
June 26, 2015
This was an enjoyable well-written story, but I felt it got very strange at the end.
The descriptions of nature and winter were beautiful. The imagery set the scene, and the wolves that populated it fit right into their environment. Their society was set up without any awkward exposition- you have to learn by watching; it isn't all spelled out at the start.
The same is true for Aldiss's situation. Nothing is just explained, it's all shown as necessary.
But I felt that the characters didn't get nearly as much time in the spotlight as the scenery did. I would have lived to know more about Hari, Aldiss, the other members of the pack and the Sapphire.
All the death seemed a bit pointless too. Aldiss's crewmates died before we'd even met them. The first strike, with Rober and Neru, that worked (and I liked how the characters stumbled on the aftermath instead of watching it) but the rest fell flat for me.
I liked that Hari wanted peace- I would have enjoyed seeing more of him defending the humans to the pack.
Because the character weren't fully developed, and neither was their relationship, the sex scene seemed way too sudden. The two certainly could make a great couple, but after some more interaction and buildup.
The ending reveals were too sudden as well and could have used some more foreshadowing or follow-up.
This could have worked better as a longer story where the intrigue and relationship had more time to develop and play out, or still as a short story with a little less going on.
Despite that, the story was very well written. I loved seeing the wolf-people's summer society through Aldiss's eyes, and the forest and spaceship from the wolves' perspective. Two lines stuck in my mind: that on the colony world, "it only rained on approved days" and that technology "remembers things for us that we can't" I especially liked the comparison of digital recordings to the collective memory of the pack.
The descriptions of nature and winter were beautiful. The imagery set the scene, and the wolves that populated it fit right into their environment. Their society was set up without any awkward exposition- you have to learn by watching; it isn't all spelled out at the start.
The same is true for Aldiss's situation. Nothing is just explained, it's all shown as necessary.
But I felt that the characters didn't get nearly as much time in the spotlight as the scenery did. I would have lived to know more about Hari, Aldiss, the other members of the pack and the Sapphire.
All the death seemed a bit pointless too. Aldiss's crewmates died before we'd even met them. The first strike, with Rober and Neru, that worked (and I liked how the characters stumbled on the aftermath instead of watching it) but the rest fell flat for me.
I liked that Hari wanted peace- I would have enjoyed seeing more of him defending the humans to the pack.
Because the character weren't fully developed, and neither was their relationship, the sex scene seemed way too sudden. The two certainly could make a great couple, but after some more interaction and buildup.
The ending reveals were too sudden as well and could have used some more foreshadowing or follow-up.
This could have worked better as a longer story where the intrigue and relationship had more time to develop and play out, or still as a short story with a little less going on.
Despite that, the story was very well written. I loved seeing the wolf-people's summer society through Aldiss's eyes, and the forest and spaceship from the wolves' perspective. Two lines stuck in my mind: that on the colony world, "it only rained on approved days" and that technology "remembers things for us that we can't" I especially liked the comparison of digital recordings to the collective memory of the pack.
July 29, 2015
2.5 stars. This quick sci-fi read has an interesting premise but could definitely have done with being longer. Aldiss and his friends crash land onto a primitive Earth just reawakening after a nuclear winter. Since Aldiss and his friends have recently fled their own planet’s destruction things are looking bleak for them. Especially when they venture out into the world and find themselves stalked and attacked by a local wolf pack.
Except they’re not just any kind of wolves. In fact they’re shapeshifters, though most can only shift to human when they’re warm enough. Not Hari. His family’s line can change at will, and he finds himself drawn to Aldiss, partly because he finds him attractive and partly because of his strangely familiar scent.
The plot itself is really interesting and has lots of potential for a deeper exploration about survival and civilisation and grief and friendship. However it’s just too short, so everything is rushed or glossed over or ignored altogether. Aldiss and his four friends might have spent the last year travelling through space, but they did so in stasis, so when they wake their loss still feels immediate. Add in the fact that their world is so far away and they have no idea if anyone survived… well, let’s just say they all get over it pretty quick.
Then there’s the romance. What romance? They meet, they kiss, they meet again, they sleep together. There really isn’t anything more to it than that. Instant lust. Even when a plot twist is revealed to explain a few things about Hari’s abilities that should have had some kind of effect on their relationship – from Aldiss if not Hari – it’s simply brushed off because sex!
In all this makes for an excellent overview of a really good story that hasn’t actually been written. It’s a good read and I liked the idea of how the problem of a nuclear winter might be handled, but I just wanted more depth. To everything.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
Except they’re not just any kind of wolves. In fact they’re shapeshifters, though most can only shift to human when they’re warm enough. Not Hari. His family’s line can change at will, and he finds himself drawn to Aldiss, partly because he finds him attractive and partly because of his strangely familiar scent.
The plot itself is really interesting and has lots of potential for a deeper exploration about survival and civilisation and grief and friendship. However it’s just too short, so everything is rushed or glossed over or ignored altogether. Aldiss and his four friends might have spent the last year travelling through space, but they did so in stasis, so when they wake their loss still feels immediate. Add in the fact that their world is so far away and they have no idea if anyone survived… well, let’s just say they all get over it pretty quick.
Then there’s the romance. What romance? They meet, they kiss, they meet again, they sleep together. There really isn’t anything more to it than that. Instant lust. Even when a plot twist is revealed to explain a few things about Hari’s abilities that should have had some kind of effect on their relationship – from Aldiss if not Hari – it’s simply brushed off because sex!
In all this makes for an excellent overview of a really good story that hasn’t actually been written. It’s a good read and I liked the idea of how the problem of a nuclear winter might be handled, but I just wanted more depth. To everything.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
August 19, 2015
I received this book for free by the author for an honest and impartial review. My receiving the book in no way affects my review. I originally rated this 2 1/2 stars on my my blog, but rounded it to 3 for Goodreads.
The Homecoming had a mixture of pros and cons. I think the biggest issue with the book was that it was too short. There’s a reason fantasy stories are long. It’s to allow ample room for world building and character development, to key points in the genre. The story didn’t allow for this. Important details and developments are crammed into a short number of pages, leaving you wanting (and needing) more.
J. Scott Coatsworth is talented. The writing was strong, with great imagery. The characters were intriguing and I was genuinely interested about the worlds, but for the majority of the story I was confused and wanting to know more—why did humans leave earth, what happened on their new planet, what are all these unique things they keep mentioning? How do wolves shift to humans? Why are there only certain wolves that do?
Aldiss and Hari had potential as characters, but the space the author allowed for them to grow and form a relationship, wasn’t enough. The romance felt rushed, especially since it doesn’t start till a good portion of the way through the story.
To put simply in terms of pros and cons:
Pros—Great writing. Interesting characters. A unique world.
Cons—A little too much tree imagery. Too short, not enough world & character development.
What I’d like is to see the author take the story and turn it into a full length fantasy. I’d be happy to see 90-110k of the world. It doesn’t even necessarily have to be about sex, but rather about the environment and the characters as a whole. If J. Scott Coatsworth did that, I’d happily throw my money at the story and buy it.
The Homecoming had a mixture of pros and cons. I think the biggest issue with the book was that it was too short. There’s a reason fantasy stories are long. It’s to allow ample room for world building and character development, to key points in the genre. The story didn’t allow for this. Important details and developments are crammed into a short number of pages, leaving you wanting (and needing) more.
J. Scott Coatsworth is talented. The writing was strong, with great imagery. The characters were intriguing and I was genuinely interested about the worlds, but for the majority of the story I was confused and wanting to know more—why did humans leave earth, what happened on their new planet, what are all these unique things they keep mentioning? How do wolves shift to humans? Why are there only certain wolves that do?
Aldiss and Hari had potential as characters, but the space the author allowed for them to grow and form a relationship, wasn’t enough. The romance felt rushed, especially since it doesn’t start till a good portion of the way through the story.
To put simply in terms of pros and cons:
Pros—Great writing. Interesting characters. A unique world.
Cons—A little too much tree imagery. Too short, not enough world & character development.
What I’d like is to see the author take the story and turn it into a full length fantasy. I’d be happy to see 90-110k of the world. It doesn’t even necessarily have to be about sex, but rather about the environment and the characters as a whole. If J. Scott Coatsworth did that, I’d happily throw my money at the story and buy it.
March 19, 2016
Title: The Homecoming
Author: J. Scott Coatsworth
Publisher: Less Than Three Press
ISBN: 9781620045831
Buy Link: http://www.lessthanthreepress.com/boo...
Reviewer: Teresa - Fallen Angel
Blurb:
When his own world is destroyed, Aldiss and his crew barely manage to escape, leaving friends and lovers behind. What was meant to be an exploratory trip back to the home world turns into a mad dash for survival.
When they awaken from stasis on Earth, which was abandoned by humanity five centuries before, they must quickly learn about their new home. While exploring the region around the ship, Aldiss meets Hari, a shape-changer, whose people harbor secrets that might cost the crew their lives.
Summary:
This story was fascinating as Adliss wakened from stasis dealing with many of scientific issues of life support to the cataclysmic destruction of their world that forced them to leave abruptly to the problems they could encounter from unknown dangers of a new world; the Earth. On the other side, Hari and his people have adapted to the harsh environment living a wolves in the winter and as men in the summer time. Adliss is one of the few of his kind that can shape shift whenever he wants and this causes him problems with their present leader. The clash between their two people set off a chain of events that began with the immediate and overwhelming attraction between Aldiss and Hari. What they didn't know was the connection between both their peoples that could change everything. This was a fast paced story with a plot twist that took it to a completely different level. This is was story that you shouldn't miss!
Author: J. Scott Coatsworth
Publisher: Less Than Three Press
ISBN: 9781620045831
Buy Link: http://www.lessthanthreepress.com/boo...
Reviewer: Teresa - Fallen Angel
Blurb:
When his own world is destroyed, Aldiss and his crew barely manage to escape, leaving friends and lovers behind. What was meant to be an exploratory trip back to the home world turns into a mad dash for survival.
When they awaken from stasis on Earth, which was abandoned by humanity five centuries before, they must quickly learn about their new home. While exploring the region around the ship, Aldiss meets Hari, a shape-changer, whose people harbor secrets that might cost the crew their lives.
Summary:
This story was fascinating as Adliss wakened from stasis dealing with many of scientific issues of life support to the cataclysmic destruction of their world that forced them to leave abruptly to the problems they could encounter from unknown dangers of a new world; the Earth. On the other side, Hari and his people have adapted to the harsh environment living a wolves in the winter and as men in the summer time. Adliss is one of the few of his kind that can shape shift whenever he wants and this causes him problems with their present leader. The clash between their two people set off a chain of events that began with the immediate and overwhelming attraction between Aldiss and Hari. What they didn't know was the connection between both their peoples that could change everything. This was a fast paced story with a plot twist that took it to a completely different level. This is was story that you shouldn't miss!
July 30, 2015
FiveStars
After reading this, all I can say is, wow. This has to be one of the best mixed genre fantasy/science fictions stories I've read in a long time. It's exceptionally well-written, and I was absorbed right from the first page.
I'm a big fan of stories where any romance is secondary to the main plot, so this fit my preference. There's clear chemistry between Hari and Aldiss from their first meeting, but the mysteries of both their worlds are far more interesting than their love story. It seemed like there were surprises around every corner as the truth about both their worlds was revealed bit by bit.
This was one I couldn't put down. I was blown away by the seamless blending of two very different genres and the depth of the themes in such a short space. Simply wonderful.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Amy
FourandHalfStars
This was a great read with a mix of paranormal romance and sci fi in it. I love a good sci fi, which would be why I chose this one, and I was not disappointed. The story takes us from confusion, to love, to understanding in a short period, and it’s a complete story.
I could keep up with the feelings of the characters, follow their thoughts and actions. The side characters were generally rounded even to have purpose and keep interest. The pacing of the story was also fantastic. It moved. I think I read this in about an hour. Great job, Scott!
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
~AJ
After reading this, all I can say is, wow. This has to be one of the best mixed genre fantasy/science fictions stories I've read in a long time. It's exceptionally well-written, and I was absorbed right from the first page.
I'm a big fan of stories where any romance is secondary to the main plot, so this fit my preference. There's clear chemistry between Hari and Aldiss from their first meeting, but the mysteries of both their worlds are far more interesting than their love story. It seemed like there were surprises around every corner as the truth about both their worlds was revealed bit by bit.
This was one I couldn't put down. I was blown away by the seamless blending of two very different genres and the depth of the themes in such a short space. Simply wonderful.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Amy
FourandHalfStars
This was a great read with a mix of paranormal romance and sci fi in it. I love a good sci fi, which would be why I chose this one, and I was not disappointed. The story takes us from confusion, to love, to understanding in a short period, and it’s a complete story.
I could keep up with the feelings of the characters, follow their thoughts and actions. The side characters were generally rounded even to have purpose and keep interest. The pacing of the story was also fantastic. It moved. I think I read this in about an hour. Great job, Scott!
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
~AJ
June 15, 2015
Aldiss and his small crew have barely escaped from their home planet as it is destroyed, and have lost all friends, family and lovers. Their ship is set on a course back to Earth, the planet their people abandoned five centuries before. The crew wake from their stasis as the ship crashes and they must abandon it before it sinks.
Hari is part of a pack of wolf shape-changers and in the winter months, they retain their wolf form to hunt and provide for the pack. Once the pack finds out about these strange visitors, they are set to destroy them and it's up to Hari to convince them otherwise.
What I liked: This is a beautifully written novella. The world building is lush and descriptive and it brings you fully into the story. The changing of the wolf's form from winter to summer, from four-legged to two-legged was very original and tied into the plot of the story.
The chemistry between Aldiss and Hari is electric and the sex scenes are well done and very hot. I also liked the fact that Hari isn't initially an alpha wolf, and his story is partly that of a subservient pack member.
What I didn't like: This is a novella and parts, like the ending, felt a little rushed. I would love to see this fleshed out into a full length novel and the pack and ship's crew explored more.
I really enjoyed this quick read and recommend it if you want something a little steamy!
ARC provided by NetGalley
Hari is part of a pack of wolf shape-changers and in the winter months, they retain their wolf form to hunt and provide for the pack. Once the pack finds out about these strange visitors, they are set to destroy them and it's up to Hari to convince them otherwise.
What I liked: This is a beautifully written novella. The world building is lush and descriptive and it brings you fully into the story. The changing of the wolf's form from winter to summer, from four-legged to two-legged was very original and tied into the plot of the story.
The chemistry between Aldiss and Hari is electric and the sex scenes are well done and very hot. I also liked the fact that Hari isn't initially an alpha wolf, and his story is partly that of a subservient pack member.
What I didn't like: This is a novella and parts, like the ending, felt a little rushed. I would love to see this fleshed out into a full length novel and the pack and ship's crew explored more.
I really enjoyed this quick read and recommend it if you want something a little steamy!
ARC provided by NetGalley
July 1, 2019
41/2 Stars
Novella: Homecoming
Author: J Scott Coatsworth
Publisher: Other Words Ink
Rated; Mature
Genre: LGBTQ Sci-fi
Release: Second edition June 26, 2019
Our author mentions this is a second edition and more has been added from the original. Spaceman meets Wolfman.
Aldiss and crew had to leave their world in a tremendous hurry, almost not escaping alive from their failing planet. Leaving family, friends and lovers behind, Aldiss is the first to awaken from the induced sleep aboard their ship that was scheduled to take them back to their home planet.
I love a great premise and this caught me immediately. I loved were they were going and why. I will no spoil it for you! Mr Coatsworth sets the story and slowly takes us on what is happening ‘at home’
There are three crew members beside Aldiss, one is running a fever and the other two will work with setting maps and figuring out their location. Te ship is not in a good location and they will have to set up somewhere safe.
This is a novella, the story good, the descriptions crisp and enjoyable…..I was so into the meeting of Aldiss and Hari and then seeing the Clan I could have read more……….Mr Coatsworth’s first entry on my kindle and will not be my last
Novella: Homecoming
Author: J Scott Coatsworth
Publisher: Other Words Ink
Rated; Mature
Genre: LGBTQ Sci-fi
Release: Second edition June 26, 2019
Our author mentions this is a second edition and more has been added from the original. Spaceman meets Wolfman.
Aldiss and crew had to leave their world in a tremendous hurry, almost not escaping alive from their failing planet. Leaving family, friends and lovers behind, Aldiss is the first to awaken from the induced sleep aboard their ship that was scheduled to take them back to their home planet.
I love a great premise and this caught me immediately. I loved were they were going and why. I will no spoil it for you! Mr Coatsworth sets the story and slowly takes us on what is happening ‘at home’
There are three crew members beside Aldiss, one is running a fever and the other two will work with setting maps and figuring out their location. Te ship is not in a good location and they will have to set up somewhere safe.
This is a novella, the story good, the descriptions crisp and enjoyable…..I was so into the meeting of Aldiss and Hari and then seeing the Clan I could have read more……….Mr Coatsworth’s first entry on my kindle and will not be my last
June 17, 2015
I decided to try this thing called Net Galley and for my first taste I selected this title. It was short enough that I thought it would be a good introduction.
A tale about romance and exploration in the wilds of new earth. I enjoyed it for what it was, a concise romance between two men from two different worlds and yet, from the same roots. If it had been longer, a bigger build-up of the love story would have been welcomed. In some ways it was a bit fast for me. But nevertheless, it was a nice romantic snack.
I thought the concept of how new earth and the remaining humans evolved to be quite interesting and only wished that the tale had dug deeper into the world creation, and the other characters that surrounded the story.
I’m a greedy reader, I’ll admit—always wanting more.
I appreciated the blend of genres, Sci-Fi, Romance, and LGBT fiction all rolled into one.
If looking for an entertaining diversion one rainy afternoon or sunny, then I’d give this story a try.
*I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
A tale about romance and exploration in the wilds of new earth. I enjoyed it for what it was, a concise romance between two men from two different worlds and yet, from the same roots. If it had been longer, a bigger build-up of the love story would have been welcomed. In some ways it was a bit fast for me. But nevertheless, it was a nice romantic snack.
I thought the concept of how new earth and the remaining humans evolved to be quite interesting and only wished that the tale had dug deeper into the world creation, and the other characters that surrounded the story.
I’m a greedy reader, I’ll admit—always wanting more.
I appreciated the blend of genres, Sci-Fi, Romance, and LGBT fiction all rolled into one.
If looking for an entertaining diversion one rainy afternoon or sunny, then I’d give this story a try.
*I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2015
This is the third short story I’ve read from author J. Scott Coatsworth and all three have very different. This is the story of Aldiss and Hari; and their individual journey to come together as one. Aldiss is fighting his survivor’s guilt and the responsibility for everyone left on his ship. When we meet Hari he is dealing with turmoil within his pack and the hostility that comes along with that.
It took me a while to get into this story and think it was because it felt a bit choppy at times. I am not sure if the length played a part in that but the characters felt a little disconnected to me. As the story progressed I was super surprised at the turn it took, the characters came alive within the story. Even with the slow start it picked up quickly and provided a great story for it’s readers. The story was well written and it provided good entertainment for me while I read. I will say that this is a mix of science fiction and paranormal romance; so if this is the type of genre you like pick up this book.
For more reviews check out our website www.exquisitereviews.com
It took me a while to get into this story and think it was because it felt a bit choppy at times. I am not sure if the length played a part in that but the characters felt a little disconnected to me. As the story progressed I was super surprised at the turn it took, the characters came alive within the story. Even with the slow start it picked up quickly and provided a great story for it’s readers. The story was well written and it provided good entertainment for me while I read. I will say that this is a mix of science fiction and paranormal romance; so if this is the type of genre you like pick up this book.
For more reviews check out our website www.exquisitereviews.com
August 15, 2015
This is the third short story I’ve read from author J. Scott Coatsworth and all three have been very different. This is the story of Aldiss and Hari; and their individual journey to come together as one. Aldiss is fighting his survivor’s guilt and the responsibility for everyone left on his ship. When we meet Hari he is dealing with turmoil within his pack and the hostility that comes along with that.
It took me a couple of pages to get into this story and I think it was because it felt a bit choppy at times. I am not sure if the length played a part in that but the characters felt a little disconnected to me. As the story progressed I was super surprised at the turn it took, the characters came alive within the story. Even with the slow start it picked up quickly and provided a great story for it’s readers. The story was well written and it provided good entertainment for me while I read. I will say that this is a mix of science fiction and paranormal romance; so if this is the type of genre you like pick up this book. Amazon.
It took me a couple of pages to get into this story and I think it was because it felt a bit choppy at times. I am not sure if the length played a part in that but the characters felt a little disconnected to me. As the story progressed I was super surprised at the turn it took, the characters came alive within the story. Even with the slow start it picked up quickly and provided a great story for it’s readers. The story was well written and it provided good entertainment for me while I read. I will say that this is a mix of science fiction and paranormal romance; so if this is the type of genre you like pick up this book. Amazon.
August 10, 2016
After reading this, all I can say is, wow. This has to be one of the best mixed genre fantasy/science fictions stories I’ve read in a long time. It’s exceptionally well-written, and I was absorbed right from the first page.
I’m a big fan of stories where any romance is secondary to the main plot, so this fit my preference. There’s clear chemistry between Hari and Aldiss from their first meeting, but the mysteries of both their worlds are far more interesting than their love story. It seemed like there were surprises around every corner as the truth about both their worlds was revealed bit by bit.
This was one I couldn’t put down. I was blown away by the seamless blending of two very different genres and the depth of the themes in such a short space. Simply wonderful.
I’m a big fan of stories where any romance is secondary to the main plot, so this fit my preference. There’s clear chemistry between Hari and Aldiss from their first meeting, but the mysteries of both their worlds are far more interesting than their love story. It seemed like there were surprises around every corner as the truth about both their worlds was revealed bit by bit.
This was one I couldn’t put down. I was blown away by the seamless blending of two very different genres and the depth of the themes in such a short space. Simply wonderful.
September 10, 2015
Original review on Molly Lolly
Four stars!
This is such a fascinating story. I enjoyed how Scott builds the world. How it’s Earth but not. How Aldiss is human, but not an Earth human. He is wonderful at creating a story that feels longer than it is. You get pulled into this world and want to know more and you learn as he tells the story of these two men that have more in common than originally thought. I so didn’t see the twist at the end coming! Threw me for a loop but love how Aldiss and Hari have the last laugh in the end. I would love to see more of this lore explored with more stories. And maybe even seeing these two men together for many years in the future.
Four stars!
This is such a fascinating story. I enjoyed how Scott builds the world. How it’s Earth but not. How Aldiss is human, but not an Earth human. He is wonderful at creating a story that feels longer than it is. You get pulled into this world and want to know more and you learn as he tells the story of these two men that have more in common than originally thought. I so didn’t see the twist at the end coming! Threw me for a loop but love how Aldiss and Hari have the last laugh in the end. I would love to see more of this lore explored with more stories. And maybe even seeing these two men together for many years in the future.
October 19, 2015
4.5 stars
This was a great read with a mix of paranormal romance and sci fi in it. I love a good sci fi, which would be why I chose this one, and I was not disappointed. The story takes us from confusion, to love, to understanding in a short period, and it’s a complete story.
I could keep up with the feelings of the characters, follow their thoughts and actions. The side characters were generally rounded even to have purpose and keep interest. The pacing of the story was also fantastic. It moved. I think I read this in about an hour. Great job, Scott!
*I was given this book in exchange for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads*
~AJ
This was a great read with a mix of paranormal romance and sci fi in it. I love a good sci fi, which would be why I chose this one, and I was not disappointed. The story takes us from confusion, to love, to understanding in a short period, and it’s a complete story.
I could keep up with the feelings of the characters, follow their thoughts and actions. The side characters were generally rounded even to have purpose and keep interest. The pacing of the story was also fantastic. It moved. I think I read this in about an hour. Great job, Scott!
*I was given this book in exchange for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads*
~AJ
August 1, 2015
Hari and Aldiss share a relation, but are unaware. Aldiss's world has been destroyed and his only option is to go to Earth where he encounters Hari, a shape shifting wolf. When Aldiss finds himself in danger, Hari saves the day... not once, but twice. It turns out they share a grandfather who wants to put an end the shape shifters. It was an enjoyable story about how your ancestor's life and path can usually dictate yours, but you can determine your own future. It's a quick read, so it shouldn't take anyone more than 45 minutes to read the book.
July 24, 2019
An Engrossing Story
Once I started this it took me little more than an hour to finish it. The world building was flawless & there was a great pace to the writing. It's a fantastic story through & through. I'd love to read more from this universe. To see if other clans have survived, whether anyone else made it away from Antana & to see how the Earth continues to rebuild.
Once I started this it took me little more than an hour to finish it. The world building was flawless & there was a great pace to the writing. It's a fantastic story through & through. I'd love to read more from this universe. To see if other clans have survived, whether anyone else made it away from Antana & to see how the Earth continues to rebuild.
September 9, 2019
Good storyline
Loved the story. The characters had promise. I would like to visit them again. My problem with this novella was that the tense kept changing from present to last and vice versa. Also a couple of times one character was referred to by the other character's name.
Loved the story. The characters had promise. I would like to visit them again. My problem with this novella was that the tense kept changing from present to last and vice versa. Also a couple of times one character was referred to by the other character's name.
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