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Chay Trilogy #1
Fireheart
Five thousand years from now, mankind is still waging battles fueled by the same hatreds that destroyed their ancestors. A solar system that once thrived is now on the brink of ruin.
But a seed of hope lies in the unexpected passions of two warriors: Lt. Vin-Chay, the second son of a crown prince on Osiron, and his captor, Pyke, a commander of Ptolemii forces.
At first, the two warriors resist the attraction they feel for each other. After all, they are sworn enemies, and their peoples have been locked in a long-distance space war. But eventually, their feelings explode into a relationship that dares them to transcend their loyalties and values. They end up forging an unbreakable bond that redefines their people, their planets, and their futures.
Join these two warriors and feel their uncontrollable passion as they battle each other, their families, hidden enemies, and a brutal totalitarian government to strike a balance between duty and love. Enter the fantastic world of Fireheart.
658 pages, Paperback
First published November 6, 2007
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 17, 2011
I love sci-fi and so, I was excited to read this book, especially when I saw that it was a long one. However, I have to say that I am quite disappointed with it.
It started out all right, even though there were a few info dumps that I skimmed over because honestly, they were a bit boring and confusing. The world building is a bit clumsy, I have to say, but the characters seemed interesting. In the beginning, I liked them both, they came off strong, smart and I could see a lot of potential in their story. Up until one of the characters, Commander Pyke, drastically changed 'overnight'. It turns out, he not only has severe anger management issues, but also is possibly bi-polar. In fact, I am quite sure that he is.
The book starts off with Pyke being sent to a remote planet where prisoners of the ongoing civil war are being held. He arrives with his ship, sees the terrible state of the prison and makes some good changes for the better of everyone. He treats his enemies with grudging respect, even. One of the prisoners, Vin-Chay, captures his attention. He offers him a deal, to be his 'companion' for the time being in exchange for some privileges. At first, Vin-Chay refuses, but afterwards, he agrees to the deal. They start off a tentative 'companionship' which boils down to conversation, logic-games and sex. It doesn't seem forced, however, as Vin-Chay had been given a fair choice to accept or refuse, with no repercussions.
Everything is fine, until one day Pyke receives an order to pack up, and dispose of all the prisoners before leaving the planet. He is shocked at that inhumane order and rallies for a 'better deal' - for prisoners to be either sent to the mines where they would shortly die, or be sold to slavery.
When the higher command goes along, he collects all the prisoners in the yard and relays the news. Then, he tells them two choose, either mines or slavery. And this is the exact moment when the book, and Pyke as a character, take a nosedive. When Vin-Chay chooses to go to the mines, Pyke refuses to accept and respect his choice and tells his sub-commanders to forcibly move him to the other group, so he could become a slave. Then, he proceeds to punch Vin-Chay for his angry retort, and generally acts like an asshole with too much power on his hands. But all right, I think, maybe it's a momentarily lapse in judgement, and he will later go back to being a good character.
If only. Pyke's character continues to get worse with every turn of the page.
He, of course, buys Vin-Chay and brings him home, as his slave. There, he lays down the law, basically saying that from now on, Vin-Chay is going to be a good little housewife and whore, and he better not try anything, or else…You get the idea. Not once does he show any compassion, or try to even understand the other man, not once does he try to put himself in the other's shoes. Vin-Chay is also a strong warrior, more than that, he is a Prince. Of course he isn't going to be happy or fucking grateful about his fabulous new life as some asshole's slave and housewife, and the mere fact that Pyke expects that is baffling.
Pyke basically went from being a reasonable, smart man that respected others, to a cruel, entitled asshole. He goes from being opposed to slavery one day, to forcing a man into it, and buying him, the next. Not only that, but he thinks that Vin-Chay should be grateful about his lot. Basically he is like, 'this is your new life, be happy it's this good and accept it!'. Wow, just wow. But wait, it gets better! Or worse, actually, a lot worse.
Time goes by and of course Vin-Chay is thinking of escape. He isn't just going to be happy playing house with some bastard who's also his enemy in war. Obviously. And who would? Only Pyke is too dumb to realize that, clearly. So, one day, Vin-Chay makes his escape attempt. I have to say, it is a pity that he didn't kill Pyke at this point, I would've cheered if he'd had. But no, he merely spikes Pyke's drink with some sort of sleeping draught. Pity.
When Pyke wakes and finds Vin-Chay gone, he flies into a blind rage (which has happened a few times before, too. He just goes crazy mad at the drop of a hat). He immediately goes to the only place where he thinks Vin-Chay could be - some neighborhood where other Osirans dwell, former slaves or what have you. There he finds their leader, but instead of being at least a little reasonable, all he does is threaten the man and his family, hell, the entire neighborhood, within an inch of their lives. He tells him to bring Vin-Chay back on a silver platter or else, he'd sic the army on them to leave nothing but rubble behind. Then he storms away and waits for his orders to be fullfilled.
Of course, this leader betrays Vin-Chay's trust and drags him back (with help of two others) to Pyke's place. Pyke gets angry again (big surprise there). He is mad that not only Vin-Chay escaped (how dare he not love the life of a slave!!) but also that the leader betrayed Vin-Chay (wtf, really? What did he expect after threatening to kill the man and his family?). So to kill two birds with one stone, and punish them both, he ties Vin-Chay to a bed and makes the leader watch as he (Pyke) lashes Vin-Chay (31 lash of a leather whip) until there's blood all over the place. Good times.
Then he leaves Vin-Chay to bleed to death, while he goes to cool off, or whatever. Oh boohoo, poor little Pyke, his life is so hard. Spare me. What an asshole, really. At this point, I already failed to see how there could possibly be a happily ever after for these two as a couple. It's just wrong on so many levels, I can't even put it to words. The only good ending I could see was with Pyke's dead or imprisoned and Vin-Chay back to his planet and family, in the arms of a worthy man. Not Pyke. Never Pyke.
So what do I do? Right, I scroll all the way down to read the ending where…what do you know, Vin-Chay is 'happy' with none other than Pyke. What the…I can't even. I honestly don't see any possible way for Pyke to ever redeem himself in this book, life, whatever. Not possible. He is an asshole with a capital A. I don't have anything positive to say about his character - he is a coward, entitled, power hungry and power abusive, he is plain old abuser with no respect for anyone but himself. It's his way or the highway, and he doesn't care about anything or anyone but himself. He is remarkably egoistic, more than that, he expects others to be grateful for the awful way he treats them. Awesome.
But I read on. After Vin-Chay manages to call the only friend he has (a priest, former slave released to 'freedom'), he passes out. The priest arrives, helps him and then contacts Pyke. Pyke gets home, and brings Vin-Chay to the hospital. Once Vin-Chay is released, Pyke calls up his old friend and basically burdens him with Vin-Chay, without any explanations to either man. He just expects everyone to do as he bids them, throws money on them and leaves for who knows how long because oh no, Pyke can't stand to look at the man who dared escaped slavery! He can't stand to live in that apartment either because Vin-Chay had the nerve to get lashed there and bleed all over the place, either. Poor Pyke, let's shed a tear for his tough life.
He is on his ship again, being his usual asshole-self, when the priest arrives to inquire about Vin-Chay (since the last time the man saw him, he was beaten half to death), and what does Pyke do? Why, he acts like a total asshole again and feels no pity for the man's agitation, no he enjoys it. Talk about being a sadist. This is where I start to wonder if maybe, Pyke is a sociopath.
So, this is page 218 of 649 pages and honestly, I am not sure if I want to read more. Such a disappointment, this book is turning out to be. A waste of time and money. I only wish there were more reviews before I bought it and started reading, so this is why I am leaving this review here for others to see.
I have to say, I can't see how Vin-Chay would willingly choose someone like Pyke, all things considered. He is a proud warrior, a strong man, a prince. Unless he also has a multiply personality disorder, it would be completely out of character for him. In fact, I'd expect him to kill Pyke the next time he saw the man, not swoon and 'fall in love' with his captor, abuser and torturer.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who likes to read about abusive, self-entitled jerks with lack of respect and compassion for others, who despite all their continuos failures and bastardly acts, end up in gold with a great man on their arm, money, etc.
It started out all right, even though there were a few info dumps that I skimmed over because honestly, they were a bit boring and confusing. The world building is a bit clumsy, I have to say, but the characters seemed interesting. In the beginning, I liked them both, they came off strong, smart and I could see a lot of potential in their story. Up until one of the characters, Commander Pyke, drastically changed 'overnight'. It turns out, he not only has severe anger management issues, but also is possibly bi-polar. In fact, I am quite sure that he is.
The book starts off with Pyke being sent to a remote planet where prisoners of the ongoing civil war are being held. He arrives with his ship, sees the terrible state of the prison and makes some good changes for the better of everyone. He treats his enemies with grudging respect, even. One of the prisoners, Vin-Chay, captures his attention. He offers him a deal, to be his 'companion' for the time being in exchange for some privileges. At first, Vin-Chay refuses, but afterwards, he agrees to the deal. They start off a tentative 'companionship' which boils down to conversation, logic-games and sex. It doesn't seem forced, however, as Vin-Chay had been given a fair choice to accept or refuse, with no repercussions.
Everything is fine, until one day Pyke receives an order to pack up, and dispose of all the prisoners before leaving the planet. He is shocked at that inhumane order and rallies for a 'better deal' - for prisoners to be either sent to the mines where they would shortly die, or be sold to slavery.
When the higher command goes along, he collects all the prisoners in the yard and relays the news. Then, he tells them two choose, either mines or slavery. And this is the exact moment when the book, and Pyke as a character, take a nosedive. When Vin-Chay chooses to go to the mines, Pyke refuses to accept and respect his choice and tells his sub-commanders to forcibly move him to the other group, so he could become a slave. Then, he proceeds to punch Vin-Chay for his angry retort, and generally acts like an asshole with too much power on his hands. But all right, I think, maybe it's a momentarily lapse in judgement, and he will later go back to being a good character.
If only. Pyke's character continues to get worse with every turn of the page.
He, of course, buys Vin-Chay and brings him home, as his slave. There, he lays down the law, basically saying that from now on, Vin-Chay is going to be a good little housewife and whore, and he better not try anything, or else…You get the idea. Not once does he show any compassion, or try to even understand the other man, not once does he try to put himself in the other's shoes. Vin-Chay is also a strong warrior, more than that, he is a Prince. Of course he isn't going to be happy or fucking grateful about his fabulous new life as some asshole's slave and housewife, and the mere fact that Pyke expects that is baffling.
Pyke basically went from being a reasonable, smart man that respected others, to a cruel, entitled asshole. He goes from being opposed to slavery one day, to forcing a man into it, and buying him, the next. Not only that, but he thinks that Vin-Chay should be grateful about his lot. Basically he is like, 'this is your new life, be happy it's this good and accept it!'. Wow, just wow. But wait, it gets better! Or worse, actually, a lot worse.
Time goes by and of course Vin-Chay is thinking of escape. He isn't just going to be happy playing house with some bastard who's also his enemy in war. Obviously. And who would? Only Pyke is too dumb to realize that, clearly. So, one day, Vin-Chay makes his escape attempt. I have to say, it is a pity that he didn't kill Pyke at this point, I would've cheered if he'd had. But no, he merely spikes Pyke's drink with some sort of sleeping draught. Pity.
When Pyke wakes and finds Vin-Chay gone, he flies into a blind rage (which has happened a few times before, too. He just goes crazy mad at the drop of a hat). He immediately goes to the only place where he thinks Vin-Chay could be - some neighborhood where other Osirans dwell, former slaves or what have you. There he finds their leader, but instead of being at least a little reasonable, all he does is threaten the man and his family, hell, the entire neighborhood, within an inch of their lives. He tells him to bring Vin-Chay back on a silver platter or else, he'd sic the army on them to leave nothing but rubble behind. Then he storms away and waits for his orders to be fullfilled.
Of course, this leader betrays Vin-Chay's trust and drags him back (with help of two others) to Pyke's place. Pyke gets angry again (big surprise there). He is mad that not only Vin-Chay escaped (how dare he not love the life of a slave!!) but also that the leader betrayed Vin-Chay (wtf, really? What did he expect after threatening to kill the man and his family?). So to kill two birds with one stone, and punish them both, he ties Vin-Chay to a bed and makes the leader watch as he (Pyke) lashes Vin-Chay (31 lash of a leather whip) until there's blood all over the place. Good times.
Then he leaves Vin-Chay to bleed to death, while he goes to cool off, or whatever. Oh boohoo, poor little Pyke, his life is so hard. Spare me. What an asshole, really. At this point, I already failed to see how there could possibly be a happily ever after for these two as a couple. It's just wrong on so many levels, I can't even put it to words. The only good ending I could see was with Pyke's dead or imprisoned and Vin-Chay back to his planet and family, in the arms of a worthy man. Not Pyke. Never Pyke.
So what do I do? Right, I scroll all the way down to read the ending where…what do you know, Vin-Chay is 'happy' with none other than Pyke. What the…I can't even. I honestly don't see any possible way for Pyke to ever redeem himself in this book, life, whatever. Not possible. He is an asshole with a capital A. I don't have anything positive to say about his character - he is a coward, entitled, power hungry and power abusive, he is plain old abuser with no respect for anyone but himself. It's his way or the highway, and he doesn't care about anything or anyone but himself. He is remarkably egoistic, more than that, he expects others to be grateful for the awful way he treats them. Awesome.
But I read on. After Vin-Chay manages to call the only friend he has (a priest, former slave released to 'freedom'), he passes out. The priest arrives, helps him and then contacts Pyke. Pyke gets home, and brings Vin-Chay to the hospital. Once Vin-Chay is released, Pyke calls up his old friend and basically burdens him with Vin-Chay, without any explanations to either man. He just expects everyone to do as he bids them, throws money on them and leaves for who knows how long because oh no, Pyke can't stand to look at the man who dared escaped slavery! He can't stand to live in that apartment either because Vin-Chay had the nerve to get lashed there and bleed all over the place, either. Poor Pyke, let's shed a tear for his tough life.
He is on his ship again, being his usual asshole-self, when the priest arrives to inquire about Vin-Chay (since the last time the man saw him, he was beaten half to death), and what does Pyke do? Why, he acts like a total asshole again and feels no pity for the man's agitation, no he enjoys it. Talk about being a sadist. This is where I start to wonder if maybe, Pyke is a sociopath.
So, this is page 218 of 649 pages and honestly, I am not sure if I want to read more. Such a disappointment, this book is turning out to be. A waste of time and money. I only wish there were more reviews before I bought it and started reading, so this is why I am leaving this review here for others to see.
I have to say, I can't see how Vin-Chay would willingly choose someone like Pyke, all things considered. He is a proud warrior, a strong man, a prince. Unless he also has a multiply personality disorder, it would be completely out of character for him. In fact, I'd expect him to kill Pyke the next time he saw the man, not swoon and 'fall in love' with his captor, abuser and torturer.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who likes to read about abusive, self-entitled jerks with lack of respect and compassion for others, who despite all their continuos failures and bastardly acts, end up in gold with a great man on their arm, money, etc.
August 27, 2015
This book was too long, too low on steam (mega sad-face here), a bit soap-operish, and overall should have bored me to death and be dnf-ed. Instead, I read it for days, never giving up, and basically, savoring each word. I fell in love with Pyke and Vin-Chay and their family and friends.
Spanning almost a decade of the heroes' lives, the story was an epic saga of love, loss, war and revolution and was at times frustrating, inspiring and really bittersweet.
Can't wait to read more.
Spanning almost a decade of the heroes' lives, the story was an epic saga of love, loss, war and revolution and was at times frustrating, inspiring and really bittersweet.
Can't wait to read more.
to-read-pruned
October 22, 2013Join these two warriors and feel their uncontrollable passion as they battle each other, their families, hidden enemies, and a brutal totalitarian government to strike a balance between duty and love. Enter the fantastic world of Fireheart.
...
Argh. Blurb tackiness.
...
Argh. Blurb tackiness.
December 21, 2010
The story was a little hard to get into at first. This is the type of read where you need to pay attention to every little detail. The author has created such a unique world, but there is a lot to learn about it. Different planets, the people who reside on each planet. They all have their own language and it gets a little confusing to remember which character goes with which planet and their customs/rules.
I already love Pyke and Vin Shay. Such opposites, enemies even. Though I have so much compassion for Pyke. He was put in a position that he does not agree with, but b.c of his military standings, he must comply with his planet's conditions/rules. Vin Shay is still so young and has been sheltered most of his life. While I can understand his anger/rage with the helplessness that he feels, he has been lucky to have Pyke looking out for him. Only time will tell if he will wisen up and understand that Pyke truly does care for him.
I am actually very excited to be reading this book. It is just the type of story I was looking for. One that I can fully immerse myself in, feel like I am a part of this futuristic society. The images that are invoked from this story have created a fascinating new world for me to explore.
Although I am not even half way through this book, I would highly recommend this story to anyone who likes m/m sci fi(there have been scenes, not too explicit, but never the less there), exploring brand new worlds, yet has the patience to read this book at a some what slower pace so that you get all the details the author has painstakingly added to this story. I worry about m/f scenes since I know that children will be born to these 2 men and the hint of a polyamory/polygamy lifestyle. I tend to like my books with just 2 men in a relationship. Kids are good, but through a donor please. This is only a concern though. I cannot say how the children will come to be and even these concerns will not keep me from reading. I am too excited to have found a story that I am unable to put down!!
**Added 12/19/10**
I wanted to let everybody know that you can also buy all three books at lulu.com. As of now, the 1st two books are on sale for $4.80 and the third book is listed for $9.99. lulu usually has 20% coupons so that you can get the books for an even lower price. Coupons STUFFER and REMARKABLEYEAR305 are still working(12/19/10) and are for 20% off. You will need Adobe Digital Editions to read them, as they are DRM protected. I know a lot of people do not like DRM, but for this author and these books, i...moreI wanted to let everybody know that you can also buy all three books at lulu.com. As of now, the 1st two books are on sale for $4.80 and the third book is listed for $9.99. lulu usually has 20% coupons so that you can get the books for an even lower price. Coupons STUFFER and REMARKABLEYEAR305 are still working(12/19/10) and are for 20% off. You will need Adobe Digital Editions to read them, as they are DRM protected. I know a lot of people do not like DRM, but for this author and these books, it did not bother me. I would have even paid full price for the books. I think you can buy the 1st two books on iuniverse, drm free, but the third is not for some reason. I highly recommend buying these books as they are an incredible series. I encourage anyone who loves m/m sci fi to give this series a try. You will not be disappointed!!
I already love Pyke and Vin Shay. Such opposites, enemies even. Though I have so much compassion for Pyke. He was put in a position that he does not agree with, but b.c of his military standings, he must comply with his planet's conditions/rules. Vin Shay is still so young and has been sheltered most of his life. While I can understand his anger/rage with the helplessness that he feels, he has been lucky to have Pyke looking out for him. Only time will tell if he will wisen up and understand that Pyke truly does care for him.
I am actually very excited to be reading this book. It is just the type of story I was looking for. One that I can fully immerse myself in, feel like I am a part of this futuristic society. The images that are invoked from this story have created a fascinating new world for me to explore.
Although I am not even half way through this book, I would highly recommend this story to anyone who likes m/m sci fi(there have been scenes, not too explicit, but never the less there), exploring brand new worlds, yet has the patience to read this book at a some what slower pace so that you get all the details the author has painstakingly added to this story. I worry about m/f scenes since I know that children will be born to these 2 men and the hint of a polyamory/polygamy lifestyle. I tend to like my books with just 2 men in a relationship. Kids are good, but through a donor please. This is only a concern though. I cannot say how the children will come to be and even these concerns will not keep me from reading. I am too excited to have found a story that I am unable to put down!!
**Added 12/19/10**
I wanted to let everybody know that you can also buy all three books at lulu.com. As of now, the 1st two books are on sale for $4.80 and the third book is listed for $9.99. lulu usually has 20% coupons so that you can get the books for an even lower price. Coupons STUFFER and REMARKABLEYEAR305 are still working(12/19/10) and are for 20% off. You will need Adobe Digital Editions to read them, as they are DRM protected. I know a lot of people do not like DRM, but for this author and these books, i...moreI wanted to let everybody know that you can also buy all three books at lulu.com. As of now, the 1st two books are on sale for $4.80 and the third book is listed for $9.99. lulu usually has 20% coupons so that you can get the books for an even lower price. Coupons STUFFER and REMARKABLEYEAR305 are still working(12/19/10) and are for 20% off. You will need Adobe Digital Editions to read them, as they are DRM protected. I know a lot of people do not like DRM, but for this author and these books, it did not bother me. I would have even paid full price for the books. I think you can buy the 1st two books on iuniverse, drm free, but the third is not for some reason. I highly recommend buying these books as they are an incredible series. I encourage anyone who loves m/m sci fi to give this series a try. You will not be disappointed!!
Read
October 28, 2013I think my expectation for this book didn't match up to the reality of it. I will have to put this one aside and not rate it, as doing so would be unfair. The writing was too much "tell" and not enough "show." The book up to 19% couldn't make me feel any visceral emotions despite the amount of activity that has occurred. The insta-attraction that Pyke felt towards Vin-Chay couldn't really be explained except for Vin-Chay's "blue eyes." There is companionship that occurs, then a sort of "betrayal," and then slavery. Time seems to jump weeks or sometimes months from one chapter to the next, when the author would explain any progress that occurs (the "telling"), but not really showing the readers. Pyke also seems to have anger management issues that only occurs when he's at home on Ptolemii. One moment, he's all loving, the next minute he backhands Vin-Chay.
Overall, I was cruising along the waves without feeling the thrill and anticipation of the ride.
Overall, I was cruising along the waves without feeling the thrill and anticipation of the ride.
September 10, 2017
Перечитала и во второй раз получила массу удовольствия. Эпично, неспешно, с полным погружением в другой мир. Эту книгу стоит прочесть.
March 4, 2016
3.5
Основные претензии - не хватило антагонизма, нескольких эмоциональных сцен и более информативного секса.
Основные претензии - не хватило антагонизма, нескольких эмоциональных сцен и более информативного секса.
November 23, 2011
4.5
Whew, what a journey! This story had me emotionally up and down. A good fantasy must have extensive world building and this story provided me a world that I felt I was fully immersed in. The physical attributes of the landscape on the planets were so well developed and provided a great foundation for the social and political backdrop for the story. The primary and secondary characters were fully developed and everyone played a pivotal role somehow within the story. The emotional spectrum from disgust, love, hate, betrayal, kindness, empathy hit the reader throughout the story and at the heart was Pyke and Vin Chay. Both Pyke and Vin Chay made me want to throw my book at times, but I was riveted to their story and their growth throughout their story. This book isn't for everyone, it is very detailed and the slavery and violence isn't easy to take. Great read and look forward to the next volume.
Whew, what a journey! This story had me emotionally up and down. A good fantasy must have extensive world building and this story provided me a world that I felt I was fully immersed in. The physical attributes of the landscape on the planets were so well developed and provided a great foundation for the social and political backdrop for the story. The primary and secondary characters were fully developed and everyone played a pivotal role somehow within the story. The emotional spectrum from disgust, love, hate, betrayal, kindness, empathy hit the reader throughout the story and at the heart was Pyke and Vin Chay. Both Pyke and Vin Chay made me want to throw my book at times, but I was riveted to their story and their growth throughout their story. This book isn't for everyone, it is very detailed and the slavery and violence isn't easy to take. Great read and look forward to the next volume.
July 23, 2012
Okay... Well, I like long novels and this one definitely was with 660 pages! I really enjoyed this one but will admit that it's definitely not for everyone. It is dark and brutal for much of it, with abuse of power being a major theme whether in small actions or in large world wide events. It clearly illustrates that duty at all costs can override humanity with devastating effect; where an individual's best intentions gets smothered under the burden of command. It also highlights that an individual may be surrounded by others, yet is dying inside from loneliness. Yet amidst the devastion, it also shows that love and life can grow out of the ashes of the past, becoming both stronger and more flexible having been forged in the crucible of pain, loss and forgiveness.
The writing on the whole is good, but there are some sections that are rather dry and boring as the author provides both background and context to events unfolding. The character development and growth is pretty good too. I know others may find some of the developments a bit unbelievable, but I could see how the effects of war may make them true. (People who have read Special Forces will know what I mean). In particular, I liked Pyke's development from a seemingly cold duty-bound soldier to a warm, loving and supportive leader, father and husband.
As I said, I enjoyed this novel, despite lots of tears being shed while reading it, and I will definitely look at the next novel in the series.
The writing on the whole is good, but there are some sections that are rather dry and boring as the author provides both background and context to events unfolding. The character development and growth is pretty good too. I know others may find some of the developments a bit unbelievable, but I could see how the effects of war may make them true. (People who have read Special Forces will know what I mean). In particular, I liked Pyke's development from a seemingly cold duty-bound soldier to a warm, loving and supportive leader, father and husband.
As I said, I enjoyed this novel, despite lots of tears being shed while reading it, and I will definitely look at the next novel in the series.
December 6, 2016
Fireheart is one of those gems you find at the bottom of the pit.
The book revolves around commander Pyke and the Osiron prince, Vin-Chay. The book spans several years of their lives from how they first met, to when they lived together and the ups and downs that come along with it. Mark my word, if you wish for a steamy m/m novel, be sure to be disappointed. While there are sex reads, this slows down starting somewhere midway in part two (or slows down in part three, I apologize for forgetting). The story revolves more around the circumstances that brought them together and how they handle these problems while finding love. It also deals with two different conflicting views from two different societies and how one ended up escalating over to an extremity. The two must find a way in order to preserve their life and those around them, even at the cost of putting another's need before his. However old grievances brought up by mistake leads to unfortunate turns of events as the story unfolds through the last part of the book.
For new readers of this book, know that due to how lengthy it is, at times it may be slow (depends more on the reader's perspective), but if you like the book when finishing part one, it may be worth reading more. This will not translate you into loving it however.
Warning(s): Abuse, no sexual violence however.
The book revolves around commander Pyke and the Osiron prince, Vin-Chay. The book spans several years of their lives from how they first met, to when they lived together and the ups and downs that come along with it. Mark my word, if you wish for a steamy m/m novel, be sure to be disappointed. While there are sex reads, this slows down starting somewhere midway in part two (or slows down in part three, I apologize for forgetting). The story revolves more around the circumstances that brought them together and how they handle these problems while finding love. It also deals with two different conflicting views from two different societies and how one ended up escalating over to an extremity. The two must find a way in order to preserve their life and those around them, even at the cost of putting another's need before his. However old grievances brought up by mistake leads to unfortunate turns of events as the story unfolds through the last part of the book.
For new readers of this book, know that due to how lengthy it is, at times it may be slow (depends more on the reader's perspective), but if you like the book when finishing part one, it may be worth reading more. This will not translate you into loving it however.
Warning(s): Abuse, no sexual violence however.
August 25, 2015
Fireheart is exactly why I read slave fiction genre, this sci-fi plot provides an excellent exploration of the morality of power and the dynamics of submission and of pain, loss,
love and forgiveness. The different philosophical perspectives of the protagonists is well portrayed as they struggle with expectations of conformity, duty and identity.
Themes of power are a significant element both personally and politically. The character development and growth is believable and the world building is interesting and explores culture and geographical adaptions in a realistic manner. In fact this book had just about everything that I enjoy in a good read - conflict, adversity, compassion, integrity, love and growth of characters of a time frame of at least seven years and that lived experiences both grounds and enriches the character development of both the protagonists and their friends and colleagues.
The story is lengthy at 660 pages divided into for sections with 20 chapters in each, however i read this in a matter of days, into the early hours at night and first thing in the morning as the story consumed me. Highly recommend space opera that explores the depths of love, loss, duty and redemption.
love and forgiveness. The different philosophical perspectives of the protagonists is well portrayed as they struggle with expectations of conformity, duty and identity.
Themes of power are a significant element both personally and politically. The character development and growth is believable and the world building is interesting and explores culture and geographical adaptions in a realistic manner. In fact this book had just about everything that I enjoy in a good read - conflict, adversity, compassion, integrity, love and growth of characters of a time frame of at least seven years and that lived experiences both grounds and enriches the character development of both the protagonists and their friends and colleagues.
The story is lengthy at 660 pages divided into for sections with 20 chapters in each, however i read this in a matter of days, into the early hours at night and first thing in the morning as the story consumed me. Highly recommend space opera that explores the depths of love, loss, duty and redemption.
March 16, 2015
I love sprawling sci-fi sagas, and I enjoyed this book. This very, very lengthy book. It's quite a complex story involving an evil empire, a noble family, antagonistic protagonists, hurt, betrayal, forgiveness, redemption, love and wicked space battles. I would have given it full marks, if not for the weird, stilted quality of the writing. Giroux writes with such restraint that it almost comes out as blandly clinical. Something terrible would happen and I was just, like: "Oh. Okay. That sucks." But I didn't really feel it. But even with its variable pacing, it was a satisfying read. I definitely will pick the rest of the trilogy.
February 14, 2016
Very good...but more on the side of I-can't-wait-to-see-what-happens than I'm-loving-every-minute-of-this-and-will-definitely-read-it-again.
June 21, 2022
As the number of pages indicates, there was a lot of information overload that was unnecessary. Nevertheless, the plot and characters, and especially the side characters' stories were enjoyable and the filler words did not hinder the pleasure of reading their stories. I'm pretty sure many fans of Special Forces will find this to be likable. I personally love the concepts that are within both series and look forward to continuing on to the next book.
June 18, 2017
DNF'd at 17% (page 278/1641)
The writing just fell flat for me. There was a lot of info-dumping and very little in the way of character insight
The writing just fell flat for me. There was a lot of info-dumping and very little in the way of character insight
January 27, 2013
Still my favorite sci-fi read, the relationship is very complex and it takes a lot of time and trust to develop. The worlds are lovingly constructed and it's a pleasure to discover.
That said, it's not an easy book to read, the relationship develops from a situation of captivity and slavery, while they get to the point of eqaulity, it's a long and painful way, for both characters. So there is at least a dub-con warning and the warning for violence and torture shouldn't be ignored either.
It's one of those books where the character stay with you after you finished reading it.
June 19, 2011
I really enjoyed this one, although there are a couple of lengthy (and boring) info-dump sections in which the history, etc. is clumsily inserted into the story. But the parts that work -- the characters and the story -- work very well.
May 6, 2011
Amazing book. Lost of detail and good plot. BUT Certain character are not really logically human, if that makes sense. I guess certain response from the character are a bit strange...and that kind of turns the romance part down by quite a bit....
April 21, 2015
confused and bored. my entire emotions through this book, however, I will admit I didn't read it all after the first few chapters I simply gave up trying to finish this one so perhaps, it did get better but my review is not based on the whole book, but on the part that I did read.
September 6, 2011
The writing is kinda clunky, but the good meaty story makes up for it.
never-never-never
December 11, 2011I read Midnight's review.
April 10, 2018
3.5 stars This was an enjoyable read most of the time. The other times it felt like a chore to keep reading, with a lot of fillers and changing of POVs.
September 9, 2016
I wanted this to be so awesome. Unfortunately I just wanted to strangle the MC.
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