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The Slave Breakers ##2
Jesse's Story
Jesse's story is the second tale in the Slave Breakers saga. Imagine a modern society parallel to our own where impoverished peasants are legally permitted to sell their children into slavery starting at age 15. The upper class households in this world demonstrate their wealth by buying the best of everything - including people.
Jesse is a strong-minded "pleasure slave" who wants to escape across the border to freedom with his fellow slave and lover. In order to accomplish this goal, he is going to need to learn about cooperation and trust from the "slave breakers".
Note: This book originally appeared as posts on LiveJournal and still contains some editing notes. The text is sexually explicit (including m/m and polyamorous situations) and is intended for adult readers.
Jesse is a strong-minded "pleasure slave" who wants to escape across the border to freedom with his fellow slave and lover. In order to accomplish this goal, he is going to need to learn about cooperation and trust from the "slave breakers".
Note: This book originally appeared as posts on LiveJournal and still contains some editing notes. The text is sexually explicit (including m/m and polyamorous situations) and is intended for adult readers.
167 pages, ebook
First published October 18, 2007
33 people are currently reading
1439 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
July 27, 2010
Jesse is bought from a masochistic master by the Slave Breakers, Holden and Alix. Jesse believes that his lover is dead only to be told by Holden and Alix that Quen is alive and at their house. Jesse isdefiant from the get go holding a special hate for Holden. Bran has become a household fixture but still has yet to hear Holden say I LOVE YOU after two years. Jesse confronts Holden in a battle of words and finally convinces Holden to be honest with the beautiful Bran who has found a place in everyone's heart.
August 5, 2013
Wow, this one was even better than Bran's Story! I'm so thrilled by this series. This installment really reminded me more of the Deviations series by Chris Owen than Bran's story. I think because Holden is very similar to Tobias although more pedagogical since he works almost exclusively with traumatized teenage slaves. Well, & Holden has a bit of a temper & can rant with the best of them.
As the series progresses, we get to know a little bit more about each of the members of the household but the main focus of this one is the Jesse/Bran/Holden dynamic not so much the others. Jesse, once again, is a slave with a cruel Master that Alix & Holden get called in to rescue. Jesse, unlike Bran, is not particularly submissive, rather brazen actually. Jesse & his lover Quen were both owned by said sadistic & evil a-hole Master who relishes in mind fucking his slaves. He's done just that to Jesse & it's so horrible that Jesse has resigned himself to his fate & given up. Enter a conniving Alix, Holden & Bran. (*claps* Yay! Bran!!!)
Jesse actually works as a catalyst in the development of Bran & Holden's relationship. Since Jesse is about to be freed he's treated as a guest in the house unless there are visitors; which actually puts him in a unique position of being perfectly candid with Holden. And he takes full advantage of that liberty. As it turns out he & Holden are of a very similar intellect & temperament & they're both quite protective & fond of Bran. (Who wouldn't be?)
Bran has over the course of the past 2 yrs become safely ensconced in the family but still can easily devolve into seeing himself as a nuisance. Don't worry, it gets addressed. There are several emotionally uplifting & just plain emotional scenes in this one, many of which involve Bran in some way, shape, form or fashion. There's also an incredibly heartwarming & romantic feeding scene *melt*. My enamor where Bran is concerned grew exponentially. (shocker)
As the series progresses, we get to know a little bit more about each of the members of the household but the main focus of this one is the Jesse/Bran/Holden dynamic not so much the others. Jesse, once again, is a slave with a cruel Master that Alix & Holden get called in to rescue. Jesse, unlike Bran, is not particularly submissive, rather brazen actually. Jesse & his lover Quen were both owned by said sadistic & evil a-hole Master who relishes in mind fucking his slaves. He's done just that to Jesse & it's so horrible that Jesse has resigned himself to his fate & given up. Enter a conniving Alix, Holden & Bran. (*claps* Yay! Bran!!!)
Jesse actually works as a catalyst in the development of Bran & Holden's relationship. Since Jesse is about to be freed he's treated as a guest in the house unless there are visitors; which actually puts him in a unique position of being perfectly candid with Holden. And he takes full advantage of that liberty. As it turns out he & Holden are of a very similar intellect & temperament & they're both quite protective & fond of Bran. (Who wouldn't be?)
Bran has over the course of the past 2 yrs become safely ensconced in the family but still can easily devolve into seeing himself as a nuisance. Don't worry, it gets addressed. There are several emotionally uplifting & just plain emotional scenes in this one, many of which involve Bran in some way, shape, form or fashion. There's also an incredibly heartwarming & romantic feeding scene *melt*. My enamor where Bran is concerned grew exponentially. (shocker)
June 3, 2012
I am blown away at how good this series is written. The characters are so engaging. I love Bran; I really do. I adore Holden, he is just amazing. I understand this is Jesse's story and it is in a way, but I think it's more Holden and Bran's story. The emotions which come through for these well developed characters has me speechless. I really needed this story as the last few books I read have been terrible. This book brought me out of my funk.
Jesse is an angry, arrogant and slightly frightened child. He is petulant in my mind. When something doesn't make sense in the pattern he expects, he has to keep picking and picking until he understands. I get this. I'm similar to Jesse. At times I want to curl and blush with embarrassment. I think, "Am I like Jesse? Do I say things the same way?" I can only groan in my on discomfort as I see pieces of Jesse as reflections of my own flaws.
What I'm most impressed about is Holden and his ability to keep it together. He is the perfect trainer. He is amazing at giving slaves just what they need. I can see why he's so appealing to Jer, Yves, Bran and Alix. I still don't get Kai and I think Kai needs a good ass reaming by Holden. I can only dream. I am truly impressed by Maculategiraffe. So far both books are absolutely amazing. I am looking forward to reading Lee's Story. I highly recommend this book to m/m BDSM lovers who enjoy romance. If this isn't romance, I don't know what is.
Jesse is an angry, arrogant and slightly frightened child. He is petulant in my mind. When something doesn't make sense in the pattern he expects, he has to keep picking and picking until he understands. I get this. I'm similar to Jesse. At times I want to curl and blush with embarrassment. I think, "Am I like Jesse? Do I say things the same way?" I can only groan in my on discomfort as I see pieces of Jesse as reflections of my own flaws.
What I'm most impressed about is Holden and his ability to keep it together. He is the perfect trainer. He is amazing at giving slaves just what they need. I can see why he's so appealing to Jer, Yves, Bran and Alix. I still don't get Kai and I think Kai needs a good ass reaming by Holden. I can only dream. I am truly impressed by Maculategiraffe. So far both books are absolutely amazing. I am looking forward to reading Lee's Story. I highly recommend this book to m/m BDSM lovers who enjoy romance. If this isn't romance, I don't know what is.
August 12, 2016
I am really enjoying this free series. Jesse is such an interesting character but it's also great to have a lot of 'Holden and Bran' time too! Moving straight on to Lee's Story
October 12, 2016
Review is for the overall series rather than individual books.
Can't even say how much I'm crushing on these characters and this universe. Fucking LOVE it! Sooo damn good! If you're a fan of slave stories (and free reads), this is one you won't want to miss!
Can't even say how much I'm crushing on these characters and this universe. Fucking LOVE it! Sooo damn good! If you're a fan of slave stories (and free reads), this is one you won't want to miss!
July 28, 2016
Meet Jesse, a slave mourning the death of his fellow slave and lover...
As far as Jesse has been told, his lover Quen is dead and he is still mourning this fact when "the slave breakers" and Bran come to talk to his master. However, after quite the eventful evening, Jesse leaves as the new property of Alix and Holden. In the car, he realizes that they planned this because Quen is alive after all. He is brought back to the house where he's reunited with his lover, but that happiness wasn't meant to last for long because Quen has the perfect opportunity to get out of the country. And he has to take it.
Left alone, Jesse starts getting closer to Bran and spending a lot of time with him. As the days pass, Jesse starts to notice that Holden is in love and continually wonders why the man wouldn't say it to Bran. After an explosive confrontation with Jesse, Holden finally does tell Bran that he loves him. A few weeks later, Jesse leaves to be with his "new mistress" who is going to set him free so he can finally be with Quen.
Like Bran's Story, Jesse's Story was tragically beautiful. The pain and suffering the boy had to go through, until he met Bran, is impossible to fathom. Although, he seemed to get over it fairly quickly with the help of beautiful Bran. Unlike Bran's Story, however, I wasn't immediately pulled in and enthralled with this story. Jesse just didn't appeal to me on the same level as Bran and his plight did.
I loved seeing Bran and Holden's relationship progress and seeing Holden finally admit to his love for Bran. Those two are just beautiful together, and the moment when Holden tells Bran that he loves him brought tears to my eyes:
"You’re so good to me," Bran murmured without opening his eyes.
"I love you, Bran," Holden said clearly.
Bran's eyes snapped open, but he lay otherwise perfectly still and silent for a moment. Then–
"Say again?" he said.
Holden reached out and gathered Bran up into his arms, crushing him against his chest. "I said I love you. I love you so damn much."
"That's what I thought you said." Bran nestled closer into Holden's arms. "Well, go on. How long have you loved me?"
"About... two years, I think," said Holden, pulling back to look curiously into Bran's face, which was calm and unsurprised, though mildly pleased.
"Okay,” said Bran a little impatiently, “but be specific. What made you start?"
"Does it matter, darling?" Holden asked, puzzled.
"Of course it does," said Bran indignantly, sitting up straight. "That's usually the best part of the dream. Not much of a dream if all you can come up with is 'about two years,' is it?"
"Dream...?” Holden echoed blankly.
"Look at you," said Bran, his own expression softening, and reached up to touch Holden's wet face. "It's nothing to cry about, master. I just like to hear it. When you first realized."
"I--" Holden cleared his throat again and swallowed. "I'm sorry, sweetheart. I can’t remember... starting. Or realizing. I can't remember knowing you without loving you. I can't imagine knowing you without loving you. And I can't imagine what the hell I ever did to deserve to have someone like you love me as much as you do. I can't imagine I do deserve it. But fuck it. I love you."
See? So beautiful! I started tearing up right in the middle of class!
After that, though, my favorite part of the book would have to be Part Ten and A Bit More At That, where Holden, Yves, and Jer are showing Bran how much they care about him. How you ask? Sex, of course. They leave their marks all over him, to his extreme satisfaction, and make love to him multiple times. It's quite a beautiful scene.
The only thing that upset me about Jesse's Story was a part near the end, when Holden and Jesse have sex. At that point, actually only a couple chapters previously, Holden told Bran that he loved him. So I was just sitting there, gaping, going "Whaaa...but he...and Bran...and, and...but he just told Bran that he loves him! He can't have sex with Jesse!" It was quite frustrating and even a bit perplexing to me because, for some reason, it doesn't bother me that both Holden and Bran have sex with Jer and Yves, but it bothered me a great deal that Jesse and Holden had a good, hard fuck. It even bothered me a little bit when Jesse and Bran had sex because I'll always see Bran as Holden's. Grrr.
After reading this, Bran is still my favorite. Something about the small, sweet boy called to me, whereas Jesse just spent a lot of time being very angry, and that just started to get to me after a while. However, Jesse's Story was another fantastic installment in The Slave Breakers series, and I look forward to reading the next one.
Here are a few other parts that I loved, too, and they of course made me laugh and smile:
“Thank you,” he heard Quen say. “Thank you so much.”
“Pshaw,” said Holden. “Thank Karl and Tara. They're the ones who dealt with those goddamn bloodhounds of Presniakov's. Alix and I just do the drawing-room work. Swilling cocktails, punching out innocent slave boys. Nothing to it.”
*~*~*
Jesse followed Bran from the room and out, blinking, onto the lighted hall. As they passed another open door, a man of about Holden's age, dressed in the house's green, came out and slung a casual arm around Bran, halting him as Yves came out a few steps behind. Jesse eyed the stranger, and his clothes, uncertainly; the older man raised an eyebrow as Bran, his arms clasped fondly around the other man’s neck, kissed him and said, "Hi, Jer. This is--"
“I know who he is,” said Jer, looking Jesse up and down over Bran's shoulder.
"The famous Jesse," said Yves, smiling. "We've been hearing about you non-stop, you know. Glad you made it, kid."
"Yeah," said Jer as Bran pulled away. "Just don't get too comfortable. We’re running out of bedrooms.”
His tone was faintly hostile, and Jesse shifted nervously. Yves laughed.
“He’s doubling up with Quen,” he said. “And they’ll both be gone soon enough.”
“I should hope so,” said Jer darkly, still looking at Jesse. “This is getting out of hand. I don’t know why the two of them can’t just stay with Karl like normal runaways.”
“Because Jess isn’t a runaway,” said Yves, and leaned in to kiss Jer’s neck seductively or reassuringly, Jesse wasn’t sure which. “Not yet, anyway. Don't get so antsy. Remember, Inga’s leaving this week. Won't that be nice?”
“Oh, Inga,” said Jer dismissively. “I don’t mind her. It’s all these lithe little boys piling up in the spare bedrooms, with their silken skin and shy, appealing mannerisms. Bran, I expect you to twine yourself around the master non-stop until they’re gone, you hear? Remind him he’s already got a pet teenager to spoil.”
“But I’m almost twenty now,” said Bran, wide-eyed. "So he'll be needing a new teenager anyway after my birthday, right? Isn't that how it works?"
"Don't you get sarcastic with me, you little brat," said Jer, but he rumpled Bran's hair affectionately as Yves laughed again. “The other one's downstairs in the kitchen. Go on, get moving."
*~*~*
"Why do you think I give a shit whether it would get to you or not, you solipsistic little prick?" Holden snapped. "You really think you're so important to me that I'd hurt someone I love just to get to you?"
"I knew it!" Jesse screamed, pointing triumphantly at Holden.
"Keep your voice down! And put that finger away before I fucking break it. You knew what?"
"Someone you love," said Jesse more quietly but no less vindictively, lowering his hand to his lap. "You said it. You love him. And you lie to him. You feed him all that crap about what an amazing person he is and how you'll be glad when he's ready to move on. Fucking liar."
*~*~*
Holden kissed Bran's lips, long and slow and deep.
"That's nice," said Bran a little breathlessly, when Holden had pulled away, "but tell me– "
"No, you tell me," said Holden, laying Bran down carefully on his back. "This is the closest you've ever come to bossing me around, and I'm not wasting the opportunity. I'll tell you I love you all you want during and after, but we are having sex now, and I am taking notes."
Bran grinned up at him. "Yeah. Well. It's not like I'm going to say no to that. Although I'll probably wake up molesting Jesse again."
"We'll see about that, won't we?" said Holden, and leaned down for another kiss as Jesse slipped silently from the room.
*~*~*
Jesse shook his head, not sure whether to be offended or pleased. "What else did he say about me?"
"That he found you disturbingly attractive," said Bran, with a sideways grin, "and he wondered if that meant he was a narcissist. But then he said he usually ended up wanting to fuck anyone I was obviously attracted to anyway, and it was probably a competitive thing, and by the way if I didn't stop making cow eyes at Lisa Kareyeva he'd sell me to her, love me or not." Bran thought for a moment as Jesse tried not to cackle. "Oh, he said wasn't I in love with you because you were so much like him except younger and prettier and less overcommitted, and then I hit him and he tackled me and we had sex again."
"I guess that was a no," said Jesse dryly.
Bran laughed again. "Sorry, Jess."
Read Oct. 25, 2010-Oct. 27, 2010
Read Oct. 11, 2012-Oct. 12, 2012
As far as Jesse has been told, his lover Quen is dead and he is still mourning this fact when "the slave breakers" and Bran come to talk to his master. However, after quite the eventful evening, Jesse leaves as the new property of Alix and Holden. In the car, he realizes that they planned this because Quen is alive after all. He is brought back to the house where he's reunited with his lover, but that happiness wasn't meant to last for long because Quen has the perfect opportunity to get out of the country. And he has to take it.
Left alone, Jesse starts getting closer to Bran and spending a lot of time with him. As the days pass, Jesse starts to notice that Holden is in love and continually wonders why the man wouldn't say it to Bran. After an explosive confrontation with Jesse, Holden finally does tell Bran that he loves him. A few weeks later, Jesse leaves to be with his "new mistress" who is going to set him free so he can finally be with Quen.
Like Bran's Story, Jesse's Story was tragically beautiful. The pain and suffering the boy had to go through, until he met Bran, is impossible to fathom. Although, he seemed to get over it fairly quickly with the help of beautiful Bran. Unlike Bran's Story, however, I wasn't immediately pulled in and enthralled with this story. Jesse just didn't appeal to me on the same level as Bran and his plight did.
I loved seeing Bran and Holden's relationship progress and seeing Holden finally admit to his love for Bran. Those two are just beautiful together, and the moment when Holden tells Bran that he loves him brought tears to my eyes:
"You’re so good to me," Bran murmured without opening his eyes.
"I love you, Bran," Holden said clearly.
Bran's eyes snapped open, but he lay otherwise perfectly still and silent for a moment. Then–
"Say again?" he said.
Holden reached out and gathered Bran up into his arms, crushing him against his chest. "I said I love you. I love you so damn much."
"That's what I thought you said." Bran nestled closer into Holden's arms. "Well, go on. How long have you loved me?"
"About... two years, I think," said Holden, pulling back to look curiously into Bran's face, which was calm and unsurprised, though mildly pleased.
"Okay,” said Bran a little impatiently, “but be specific. What made you start?"
"Does it matter, darling?" Holden asked, puzzled.
"Of course it does," said Bran indignantly, sitting up straight. "That's usually the best part of the dream. Not much of a dream if all you can come up with is 'about two years,' is it?"
"Dream...?” Holden echoed blankly.
"Look at you," said Bran, his own expression softening, and reached up to touch Holden's wet face. "It's nothing to cry about, master. I just like to hear it. When you first realized."
"I--" Holden cleared his throat again and swallowed. "I'm sorry, sweetheart. I can’t remember... starting. Or realizing. I can't remember knowing you without loving you. I can't imagine knowing you without loving you. And I can't imagine what the hell I ever did to deserve to have someone like you love me as much as you do. I can't imagine I do deserve it. But fuck it. I love you."
See? So beautiful! I started tearing up right in the middle of class!
After that, though, my favorite part of the book would have to be Part Ten and A Bit More At That, where Holden, Yves, and Jer are showing Bran how much they care about him. How you ask? Sex, of course. They leave their marks all over him, to his extreme satisfaction, and make love to him multiple times. It's quite a beautiful scene.
The only thing that upset me about Jesse's Story was a part near the end, when Holden and Jesse have sex. At that point, actually only a couple chapters previously, Holden told Bran that he loved him. So I was just sitting there, gaping, going "Whaaa...but he...and Bran...and, and...but he just told Bran that he loves him! He can't have sex with Jesse!" It was quite frustrating and even a bit perplexing to me because, for some reason, it doesn't bother me that both Holden and Bran have sex with Jer and Yves, but it bothered me a great deal that Jesse and Holden had a good, hard fuck. It even bothered me a little bit when Jesse and Bran had sex because I'll always see Bran as Holden's. Grrr.
After reading this, Bran is still my favorite. Something about the small, sweet boy called to me, whereas Jesse just spent a lot of time being very angry, and that just started to get to me after a while. However, Jesse's Story was another fantastic installment in The Slave Breakers series, and I look forward to reading the next one.
Here are a few other parts that I loved, too, and they of course made me laugh and smile:
“Thank you,” he heard Quen say. “Thank you so much.”
“Pshaw,” said Holden. “Thank Karl and Tara. They're the ones who dealt with those goddamn bloodhounds of Presniakov's. Alix and I just do the drawing-room work. Swilling cocktails, punching out innocent slave boys. Nothing to it.”
*~*~*
Jesse followed Bran from the room and out, blinking, onto the lighted hall. As they passed another open door, a man of about Holden's age, dressed in the house's green, came out and slung a casual arm around Bran, halting him as Yves came out a few steps behind. Jesse eyed the stranger, and his clothes, uncertainly; the older man raised an eyebrow as Bran, his arms clasped fondly around the other man’s neck, kissed him and said, "Hi, Jer. This is--"
“I know who he is,” said Jer, looking Jesse up and down over Bran's shoulder.
"The famous Jesse," said Yves, smiling. "We've been hearing about you non-stop, you know. Glad you made it, kid."
"Yeah," said Jer as Bran pulled away. "Just don't get too comfortable. We’re running out of bedrooms.”
His tone was faintly hostile, and Jesse shifted nervously. Yves laughed.
“He’s doubling up with Quen,” he said. “And they’ll both be gone soon enough.”
“I should hope so,” said Jer darkly, still looking at Jesse. “This is getting out of hand. I don’t know why the two of them can’t just stay with Karl like normal runaways.”
“Because Jess isn’t a runaway,” said Yves, and leaned in to kiss Jer’s neck seductively or reassuringly, Jesse wasn’t sure which. “Not yet, anyway. Don't get so antsy. Remember, Inga’s leaving this week. Won't that be nice?”
“Oh, Inga,” said Jer dismissively. “I don’t mind her. It’s all these lithe little boys piling up in the spare bedrooms, with their silken skin and shy, appealing mannerisms. Bran, I expect you to twine yourself around the master non-stop until they’re gone, you hear? Remind him he’s already got a pet teenager to spoil.”
“But I’m almost twenty now,” said Bran, wide-eyed. "So he'll be needing a new teenager anyway after my birthday, right? Isn't that how it works?"
"Don't you get sarcastic with me, you little brat," said Jer, but he rumpled Bran's hair affectionately as Yves laughed again. “The other one's downstairs in the kitchen. Go on, get moving."
*~*~*
"Why do you think I give a shit whether it would get to you or not, you solipsistic little prick?" Holden snapped. "You really think you're so important to me that I'd hurt someone I love just to get to you?"
"I knew it!" Jesse screamed, pointing triumphantly at Holden.
"Keep your voice down! And put that finger away before I fucking break it. You knew what?"
"Someone you love," said Jesse more quietly but no less vindictively, lowering his hand to his lap. "You said it. You love him. And you lie to him. You feed him all that crap about what an amazing person he is and how you'll be glad when he's ready to move on. Fucking liar."
*~*~*
Holden kissed Bran's lips, long and slow and deep.
"That's nice," said Bran a little breathlessly, when Holden had pulled away, "but tell me– "
"No, you tell me," said Holden, laying Bran down carefully on his back. "This is the closest you've ever come to bossing me around, and I'm not wasting the opportunity. I'll tell you I love you all you want during and after, but we are having sex now, and I am taking notes."
Bran grinned up at him. "Yeah. Well. It's not like I'm going to say no to that. Although I'll probably wake up molesting Jesse again."
"We'll see about that, won't we?" said Holden, and leaned down for another kiss as Jesse slipped silently from the room.
*~*~*
Jesse shook his head, not sure whether to be offended or pleased. "What else did he say about me?"
"That he found you disturbingly attractive," said Bran, with a sideways grin, "and he wondered if that meant he was a narcissist. But then he said he usually ended up wanting to fuck anyone I was obviously attracted to anyway, and it was probably a competitive thing, and by the way if I didn't stop making cow eyes at Lisa Kareyeva he'd sell me to her, love me or not." Bran thought for a moment as Jesse tried not to cackle. "Oh, he said wasn't I in love with you because you were so much like him except younger and prettier and less overcommitted, and then I hit him and he tackled me and we had sex again."
"I guess that was a no," said Jesse dryly.
Bran laughed again. "Sorry, Jess."
Read Oct. 25, 2010-Oct. 27, 2010
Read Oct. 11, 2012-Oct. 12, 2012
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2015
Reading Maculategiraffe’s The Slave Breakers trilogy makes me feel like I have a tornado of glitter swirling around inside of me! It definitely deserves a 3.5-star rating!
On the surface, Jesse’s Story is about the title character - another young slave boy bought by Alix and Holden in order to save him from a physically and emotionally abusive owner. (Sound familiar?! It should; it’s the exact same premise as the first book in the series, Bran’s Story.) This time, however, instead of retraining the rebellious slave so that he can be placed with a more humane owner, Holden and Alix plot to help the boy and his lover escape across the western border and live the rest of their lives as free men. In actuality, however, Jesse’s Story is really just an elaborate way to continue telling Bran and Holden’s story.
The book is set two years after Bran first declared his love for Holden and threatened to run away rather than be sold. While Bran remains the same sweet, fiercely devoted boy readers fell in love with, it’s easy to see that two years with Holden have brought about some changes as well; he’s become less shy and more comfortable in his own skin than he once was. He readily accepts teasing and physical affection from those around him, and acts as a sort of mentor for impoverished teens who are about to be sold as slaves. But despite the years of security he’s enjoyed with Holden and his family, Bran’s heart is still shadowed by the almost paralyzing fear that Holden will eventually tire of him and turn him away. His need to truly belong to and be loved by Holden is… well, it’s practically visceral.
And Holden, for all of his wonderful traits, still refuses to tell Bran he loves him. It’s a heart-wrenching situation made all the more heart-wrenching because you know the very last thing Holden wants to do is hurt Bran.
Though the whole story is well-written, Maculategiraffe's writing shines particularly in its more emotional sections. S/he has the ability to use very few words and still make me feel like my heart has been ripped out of my chest and left bleeding on the floor at a Holden's feet. Even though I'm 90% marshmallow, I'm pretty sure that's the mark of a rare talent. ;)
Up until this point, my experience with slave fiction has been that it trends towards much darker material than typical romance or erotic novels do. But with first Bran’s Story and now Jesse’s Story, Maculategiraffe has managed to turn the genre on its head and create some of the sweetest stories that I have read in a really long time.
Case in point:
Holden reached out and gathered Bran up into his arms, crushing him against his chest. "I said I love you. I love you so damn much."
"That's what I thought you said." Bran nestled closer into Holden's arms. […] “What made you start?"
"Does it matter, darling?" Holden asked, puzzled.
"Of course it does," said Bran indignantly, sitting up straight. […]
"I--" Holden cleared his throat again and swallowed. "I'm sorry, sweetheart. I can’t remember... starting. Or realizing. I can't remember knowing you without loving you. I can't imagine knowing you without loving you. And I can't imagine what the hell I ever did to deserve to have someone like you love me as much as you do. I can't imagine I do deserve it. But fuck it. I love you."
*Cue Catherine crying big, fat, deliriously happy tears like a friggin’ baby*
This was the moment that I have been waiting for since I first read Bran’s Story and I was NOT disappointed! I love that Holden’s declaration felt incredibly raw, like it was being dragged out of him against his will and better judgment, but as if - now that it was out there - he wasn’t going to hold anything back from Bran ever again. Pure awesomeness.
Verdict: Jesse's Story was everything my little heart desired. This is a series I'm destined to read over and over again.
On the surface, Jesse’s Story is about the title character - another young slave boy bought by Alix and Holden in order to save him from a physically and emotionally abusive owner. (Sound familiar?! It should; it’s the exact same premise as the first book in the series, Bran’s Story.) This time, however, instead of retraining the rebellious slave so that he can be placed with a more humane owner, Holden and Alix plot to help the boy and his lover escape across the western border and live the rest of their lives as free men. In actuality, however, Jesse’s Story is really just an elaborate way to continue telling Bran and Holden’s story.
The book is set two years after Bran first declared his love for Holden and threatened to run away rather than be sold. While Bran remains the same sweet, fiercely devoted boy readers fell in love with, it’s easy to see that two years with Holden have brought about some changes as well; he’s become less shy and more comfortable in his own skin than he once was. He readily accepts teasing and physical affection from those around him, and acts as a sort of mentor for impoverished teens who are about to be sold as slaves. But despite the years of security he’s enjoyed with Holden and his family, Bran’s heart is still shadowed by the almost paralyzing fear that Holden will eventually tire of him and turn him away. His need to truly belong to and be loved by Holden is… well, it’s practically visceral.
And Holden, for all of his wonderful traits, still refuses to tell Bran he loves him. It’s a heart-wrenching situation made all the more heart-wrenching because you know the very last thing Holden wants to do is hurt Bran.
Though the whole story is well-written, Maculategiraffe's writing shines particularly in its more emotional sections. S/he has the ability to use very few words and still make me feel like my heart has been ripped out of my chest and left bleeding on the floor at a Holden's feet. Even though I'm 90% marshmallow, I'm pretty sure that's the mark of a rare talent. ;)
Up until this point, my experience with slave fiction has been that it trends towards much darker material than typical romance or erotic novels do. But with first Bran’s Story and now Jesse’s Story, Maculategiraffe has managed to turn the genre on its head and create some of the sweetest stories that I have read in a really long time.
Case in point:
Holden reached out and gathered Bran up into his arms, crushing him against his chest. "I said I love you. I love you so damn much."
"That's what I thought you said." Bran nestled closer into Holden's arms. […] “What made you start?"
"Does it matter, darling?" Holden asked, puzzled.
"Of course it does," said Bran indignantly, sitting up straight. […]
"I--" Holden cleared his throat again and swallowed. "I'm sorry, sweetheart. I can’t remember... starting. Or realizing. I can't remember knowing you without loving you. I can't imagine knowing you without loving you. And I can't imagine what the hell I ever did to deserve to have someone like you love me as much as you do. I can't imagine I do deserve it. But fuck it. I love you."
*Cue Catherine crying big, fat, deliriously happy tears like a friggin’ baby*
This was the moment that I have been waiting for since I first read Bran’s Story and I was NOT disappointed! I love that Holden’s declaration felt incredibly raw, like it was being dragged out of him against his will and better judgment, but as if - now that it was out there - he wasn’t going to hold anything back from Bran ever again. Pure awesomeness.
Verdict: Jesse's Story was everything my little heart desired. This is a series I'm destined to read over and over again.
March 28, 2016
I started out liking this one, but it sadly did not go the way I imagined.
The sex slave angle was much more prominent in this one, and while still nothing totally explicit there is still more sex than I like.
The story I was expecting never came about, instead this was a twisting story about Holden. To be honest I'm really not quite sure exactly what the story was. Just a lot of sex mixed in with a lot of Holden speaking in riddles and Jesse trying to figure out Holdens depths.
The really bad part for me was the ending
I'm not even mentioning the daughters little bit part in this one. This was definitely not for me. But because they are free I will probably give the last one a try lol.
The sex slave angle was much more prominent in this one, and while still nothing totally explicit there is still more sex than I like.
The story I was expecting never came about, instead this was a twisting story about Holden. To be honest I'm really not quite sure exactly what the story was. Just a lot of sex mixed in with a lot of Holden speaking in riddles and Jesse trying to figure out Holdens depths.
The really bad part for me was the ending
I'm not even mentioning the daughters little bit part in this one. This was definitely not for me. But because they are free I will probably give the last one a try lol.
March 25, 2016
I loved this story more than the first book in this series and that surprises me I didn't see that coming. The other thing that surprised and delighted me is this book is really just a continuation of Holden and Bran's relationship and I really wanted more of them.
There is a heartbreaking and happy story in there about Jesse and Quen which just added to my reading enjoyment but my heart is with Bran, I can't get enough of him.
I can't wait to start Lee's story and I'm hoping Bran, Holden and the rest of the cast have just as big a role in it.
May 6, 2016
This is two years on from Bran's Story, and in this book we meet Jesse, and Jesse is rather fierce and defiant and not at all like Bran.
When the book opens, Jesse has just found out that his lover is dead from his extremely sadistic master and he has lost all hope. Then he is bought by the slave breakers, and everything changes.
Because of a variety of things that I don't want to spoil here, Jesse is not really their slave and, as such, is an interesting perspective for this story to be told from. He is a guest in the house, almost, and an outsider, but he is also extremely curious and pokes his nose everywhere it doesn't belong (i.e. Holden and Bran's relationship).
Jesse himself isn't being trained by Holden, so his story is kind of a waiting game. But whilst he's waiting for the promised conclusion to his misery, he makes it his personal mission to work out how Holden feels about Bran and then to get him to confess his love.
Because he's an ass and hasn't done so in the past two years. *frowns*
I really enjoyed the fact we got to see more of Bran and Holden's relationship (the stubborn butt that he is), but, on the other hand, I feel like it kind of came at the expense of Jesse himself sometimes.
I think Bran himself sums it up when he says: "He said... that, he said you were way too damn obnoxious to be merely human, so you had to be some kind of divine messenger, and he figured he'd better do what you said quick so you'd go ahead and disappear." Jesse darts into their lives, throws everything into chaos and fixes things, then darts back out again. He's a good catalyst, in a way.
Jesse's perspective also makes Holden really unlikeable, haha. To be fair, at the beginning of the novel, and that... colours Jesse's perception of him a fair bit.
The characters were, like the last book, wonderfully constructed. Characters we knew gained added depth, and the new characters were wonderfully three-dimensional and believable. We started to learn more about the world Slave Breakers is set in as well, which was great.
Once again, there are some editing issues, but nothing too major.
Highly recommended, but definitely read Bran's Story first. :)
When the book opens, Jesse has just found out that his lover is dead from his extremely sadistic master and he has lost all hope. Then he is bought by the slave breakers, and everything changes.
Because of a variety of things that I don't want to spoil here, Jesse is not really their slave and, as such, is an interesting perspective for this story to be told from. He is a guest in the house, almost, and an outsider, but he is also extremely curious and pokes his nose everywhere it doesn't belong (i.e. Holden and Bran's relationship).
Jesse himself isn't being trained by Holden, so his story is kind of a waiting game. But whilst he's waiting for the promised conclusion to his misery, he makes it his personal mission to work out how Holden feels about Bran and then to get him to confess his love.
Because he's an ass and hasn't done so in the past two years. *frowns*
I really enjoyed the fact we got to see more of Bran and Holden's relationship (the stubborn butt that he is), but, on the other hand, I feel like it kind of came at the expense of Jesse himself sometimes.
I think Bran himself sums it up when he says: "He said... that, he said you were way too damn obnoxious to be merely human, so you had to be some kind of divine messenger, and he figured he'd better do what you said quick so you'd go ahead and disappear." Jesse darts into their lives, throws everything into chaos and fixes things, then darts back out again. He's a good catalyst, in a way.
Jesse's perspective also makes Holden really unlikeable, haha. To be fair, at the beginning of the novel, and that... colours Jesse's perception of him a fair bit.
The characters were, like the last book, wonderfully constructed. Characters we knew gained added depth, and the new characters were wonderfully three-dimensional and believable. We started to learn more about the world Slave Breakers is set in as well, which was great.
Once again, there are some editing issues, but nothing too major.
Highly recommended, but definitely read Bran's Story first. :)
February 2, 2012
In
Jesse's Story
we meet Jesse, a slave who has been tortured by Gregorei Presniakov. Presniakov killed Jesse's lover, another of his slaves, Quen when he tried to escape. Jesse is rescued from Presniakov by Alix and Holden, who rescued Bran in Bran's Story. On the way to his new temporary home, Bran reassures Jesse that his new Mistress and Master are nothing like Presniakov.
This is the second book in 'The Slave Breakers' trilogy, so there will be some spoilers below.
Since Bran's rescue and "reconditioning," Holden has allowed him to stay in their home, along with their other much older "slaves," Jer, Yves, and Greta, even though Bran professed his love for him. Holden insists he isn't in love, but rather deeply appreciates the care he has given him over the years. Jesse is amazed by the care all the slaves receive from Alix and Holden. He has never seen anything like it - slaves are allowed to enjoy each other's company, laugh and talk with each other, and appear to be truly adored by Alix and Holden. He's determined to have Holden accept that he is indeed in love with Bran.
Jesse is observant, inquisitive, and much like Holden. While the Jamesen's think of a way to help him escape, Holden begins to see the similarities between them and puts the paperwork in place for their future.
This trilogy is set in an odd world where the rich have slaves, most treat them well, however there are those who are brutal, like Presniakov. Alix and Holden do their best to rescue these slaves and help them heal, then eventually resell them. Sometimes ... a few are allowed to stay. (Rating: 3.5★;)
This is the second book in 'The Slave Breakers' trilogy, so there will be some spoilers below.
Since Bran's rescue and "reconditioning," Holden has allowed him to stay in their home, along with their other much older "slaves," Jer, Yves, and Greta, even though Bran professed his love for him. Holden insists he isn't in love, but rather deeply appreciates the care he has given him over the years. Jesse is amazed by the care all the slaves receive from Alix and Holden. He has never seen anything like it - slaves are allowed to enjoy each other's company, laugh and talk with each other, and appear to be truly adored by Alix and Holden. He's determined to have Holden accept that he is indeed in love with Bran.
Jesse is observant, inquisitive, and much like Holden. While the Jamesen's think of a way to help him escape, Holden begins to see the similarities between them and puts the paperwork in place for their future.
This trilogy is set in an odd world where the rich have slaves, most treat them well, however there are those who are brutal, like Presniakov. Alix and Holden do their best to rescue these slaves and help them heal, then eventually resell them. Sometimes ... a few are allowed to stay. (Rating: 3.5★;)
May 17, 2013
Well done sequel which continues the main romantic storyline of the first book with a fresh perspective.
Jesse and Quen are owned by a vicious and sadistic master. Their only comfort is each other, and together they plan a daring escape. Quen gets away, but Jesse does not, and as this book opens Jesse's master has informed him with bitter glee that Quen is dead.
Like Bran before him, Jesse finds himself sold to the "slave breakers" and discovers them to be not what he expected or feared. But this is not a retread of Bran's story. Jesse and Bran are very different in desires and circumstances. Jesse is not being trained by Holden, but simply staying for a few weeks in the household while plans are made to move him elsewhere. This changes the power dynamic drastically and enables Jesse to stand up to and question Holden in ways Bran could not.
Jesse is not temperamentally suited to slavery, makes little pretense otherwise, and has attitude and resentment to boot. As in the first book, the plot consists of Jesse learning about the various members of the household and family friends. He becomes fascinated by the enigmatic Holden. Jesse is sure Holden is in love with Bran, but why won't Holden admit it?
Jesse pushes for the answers he wants, setting the entire household on edge in the process. His probing is the trigger for a worthy payoff of revelations which will happily satisfy the reader--if not Jesse himself.
A happy, touching, and sexy story. Four stars.
Jesse and Quen are owned by a vicious and sadistic master. Their only comfort is each other, and together they plan a daring escape. Quen gets away, but Jesse does not, and as this book opens Jesse's master has informed him with bitter glee that Quen is dead.
Like Bran before him, Jesse finds himself sold to the "slave breakers" and discovers them to be not what he expected or feared. But this is not a retread of Bran's story. Jesse and Bran are very different in desires and circumstances. Jesse is not being trained by Holden, but simply staying for a few weeks in the household while plans are made to move him elsewhere. This changes the power dynamic drastically and enables Jesse to stand up to and question Holden in ways Bran could not.
Jesse is not temperamentally suited to slavery, makes little pretense otherwise, and has attitude and resentment to boot. As in the first book, the plot consists of Jesse learning about the various members of the household and family friends. He becomes fascinated by the enigmatic Holden. Jesse is sure Holden is in love with Bran, but why won't Holden admit it?
Jesse pushes for the answers he wants, setting the entire household on edge in the process. His probing is the trigger for a worthy payoff of revelations which will happily satisfy the reader--if not Jesse himself.
A happy, touching, and sexy story. Four stars.
March 19, 2011
This review is for all of the "slave breakers" series. I enjoyed them all about the same, except maybe the prequel which is my least favorite, but still very good.
I was not sure what to think of this story before I started reading it. I saw where one of my friends here on Goodreads rated it very well. Then I saw that it was posted on LiveJournal and that there are writer's note within the story. I was worried then that the story would not be well written because of this, but based on the the ratings, I decided to give it a try. I am extremely glad I did. These stories have very high sexual context to them and they are pretty much all M/M (which I have read some but not much).
Although these stories are about true sex slaves (no in the play world like in a BDSM, where the "slave" can call a safeword), the BDSM is very light. These slaves are true property of their owners. They bring up in the story that the owners can kill their slaves in front of witnesses and there are no repercussions.
Great stories, I hope to see them truly published one day. I also hope that people are going to the LiveJournal page to donate to the author because it would be great to continue to have more of these stories.
I was not sure what to think of this story before I started reading it. I saw where one of my friends here on Goodreads rated it very well. Then I saw that it was posted on LiveJournal and that there are writer's note within the story. I was worried then that the story would not be well written because of this, but based on the the ratings, I decided to give it a try. I am extremely glad I did. These stories have very high sexual context to them and they are pretty much all M/M (which I have read some but not much).
Although these stories are about true sex slaves (no in the play world like in a BDSM, where the "slave" can call a safeword), the BDSM is very light. These slaves are true property of their owners. They bring up in the story that the owners can kill their slaves in front of witnesses and there are no repercussions.
Great stories, I hope to see them truly published one day. I also hope that people are going to the LiveJournal page to donate to the author because it would be great to continue to have more of these stories.
June 21, 2011
This is the second story in the Slave Breakers series and is called Jesse's Story but it's really more of a continuation of Bran's story. This one gives you the household from Jesse's POV though and it's interesting to see Bran and Holden through others eyes. Jesse is a very strong character and by him, Bran is able to express his fears and desires to Holden and Holden is finally able to admit his feelings to Bran. Holden had a great reward in store for Jesse as well. It was a big HEA all around.
July 7, 2014
In alot of ways I really didn't feel like this was Jesse's story. It was just a way to get a outside POV on Bran and Holden's relationship. We really didn't get alot on Jesse other than the basics and most of the time was spent with Jesse observing either Bran or Holden or them together. While I did enjoy it alot I can't help but think this would have more emotional appeal the relationship between the two had been told in Yves or Jer's POV
October 21, 2010
Excellent. Bran and Holden just about killed me.
December 29, 2010
Now, if jesse just wasn't such a PRICK...
June 4, 2016
Read this free short download in a morning. Continues the master/slave relationship that began with 'Bran's Story'. Enjoyable but not much substance..
May 12, 2013
Can't stop. Starting the next one now.
July 8, 2021
Outstanding! A story well worth reading.
March 4, 2015
After Bran’s Story, I was looking forward very much to the next installment in The Slave Breakers universe. Jesse’s Story follows the abused slave, Jesse, who is rescued by Alix and Holden and helped to freedom across the border. But more than that, the story revolves around the relationship between Holden and Bran established in the previous novel.
The writing and characterization remain fantastic. I definitely enjoyed spying in on this twisted family and their business. ;)
Jesse was a breath of fresh air in this upside-down world. He hated being a slave and hates slavery in general. He saw through everyone’s bullshit and called them out on it.
”I like Sophie,” said Jesse, with a curious look at Bran. “She seemed to have her head on straight. Kai’s fucked up.”
“Aren’t we all?” said Bran.
Yes, yes you are. Every single character is fucked up, and why couldn’t the authors revel in it like the last book?
Because here, Jesse’s quest for freedom comes off…wrong, like some people are better suited for slavery, and those like Jesse, who are too “arrogant” or “rambunctious” to obey, somehow all magically get out of it. Why did none of the other slaves in the house try to get across the border too? The answer I got was that slavery – for Bran and others – was actually preferable so long as they are not physically abused.
GAR. Not ok. This book made me feel all sorts of discomfort.
Especially examining Holden and Bran’s relationship. With the injection of social commentary, their love for each other was just confusing. It was as if the author was arguing slaves and their masters can honestly love each other. The love rang false for me, like a lustful combination of hero-worship, gratitude, loyalty, and dependence on one side and on the other, pity, fondness and feeling powerful/masculine/needed. And, while I enjoyed thinking about and examining their fucked up dynamics, a part of me realized that by the end of the novel, they were supposed to be a happy stable romantic couple.
Like I said, confusing. Because it’s portrayed that way, but it really isn’t. It is classic Stockholm Syndrome obsession. Jesse’s Story brings up the inherent inequities and serious fucking problems surrounding slavery, and makes it harder to enjoy how twisted it is. And I think that’s the point; but I’m really not sure. I never read a book that brings social commentary into a slavefic. And if the author is doing this, why portray Holden and Bran so positively? *confused*
I certainly didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first, but I was intrigued enough to continue reading the story. Did I mention the writing is fantastic?
The writing and characterization remain fantastic. I definitely enjoyed spying in on this twisted family and their business. ;)
Jesse was a breath of fresh air in this upside-down world. He hated being a slave and hates slavery in general. He saw through everyone’s bullshit and called them out on it.
”I like Sophie,” said Jesse, with a curious look at Bran. “She seemed to have her head on straight. Kai’s fucked up.”
“Aren’t we all?” said Bran.
Yes, yes you are. Every single character is fucked up, and why couldn’t the authors revel in it like the last book?
Because here, Jesse’s quest for freedom comes off…wrong, like some people are better suited for slavery, and those like Jesse, who are too “arrogant” or “rambunctious” to obey, somehow all magically get out of it. Why did none of the other slaves in the house try to get across the border too? The answer I got was that slavery – for Bran and others – was actually preferable so long as they are not physically abused.
GAR. Not ok. This book made me feel all sorts of discomfort.
Especially examining Holden and Bran’s relationship. With the injection of social commentary, their love for each other was just confusing. It was as if the author was arguing slaves and their masters can honestly love each other. The love rang false for me, like a lustful combination of hero-worship, gratitude, loyalty, and dependence on one side and on the other, pity, fondness and feeling powerful/masculine/needed. And, while I enjoyed thinking about and examining their fucked up dynamics, a part of me realized that by the end of the novel, they were supposed to be a happy stable romantic couple.
Like I said, confusing. Because it’s portrayed that way, but it really isn’t. It is classic Stockholm Syndrome obsession. Jesse’s Story brings up the inherent inequities and serious fucking problems surrounding slavery, and makes it harder to enjoy how twisted it is. And I think that’s the point; but I’m really not sure. I never read a book that brings social commentary into a slavefic. And if the author is doing this, why portray Holden and Bran so positively? *confused*
I certainly didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first, but I was intrigued enough to continue reading the story. Did I mention the writing is fantastic?
February 19, 2017
Loved it
April 2, 2011
Two years have passed since we were first introduced to the Slave Breakers world, and what a difference those two years make, both in the incredible writing talent of this author and in the progression of the storyline.
Jesse adds a whole new element to the story as he single handedly accomplishes in a matter of days what no one else has in those two years. His POV offers a new and different perspective and not only into the Slave Breakers world. Jesse's inquisitive and unapologetically brash nature will bring out the worst and ultimately the best in anyone and everyone that sets that overactive mind of his in motion. He just can't help himself, can't resist a challenge. He's a master of observation, a seeker of solutions and he'll work a puzzling situation until all the pieces fall into place and fit. His words and actions lead more than one of this colorful cast of characters to take a deeper look at themselves, most especially and extremely revealing (and most rewarding) are Holden's "Come to Loki" moments. Through some really beautifully written and revealing scenes it's not only we the reader that comes away enlightened and feeling all safe and warm and fuzzy and pretty much like all is right in our Slave Breakers world.
Jesse's story was even more rewarding and memorable to me than Bran's was and that in itself is saying a lot as Bran's story still echoes in my mind quite clearly. The writing is beyond amazing and the "each has his or her own heartbreaking story" cast of characters that inhabit this world make it so damn fascinating and addictive.
HIGHLY recommended reading!
Jesse adds a whole new element to the story as he single handedly accomplishes in a matter of days what no one else has in those two years. His POV offers a new and different perspective and not only into the Slave Breakers world. Jesse's inquisitive and unapologetically brash nature will bring out the worst and ultimately the best in anyone and everyone that sets that overactive mind of his in motion. He just can't help himself, can't resist a challenge. He's a master of observation, a seeker of solutions and he'll work a puzzling situation until all the pieces fall into place and fit. His words and actions lead more than one of this colorful cast of characters to take a deeper look at themselves, most especially and extremely revealing (and most rewarding) are Holden's "Come to Loki" moments. Through some really beautifully written and revealing scenes it's not only we the reader that comes away enlightened and feeling all safe and warm and fuzzy and pretty much like all is right in our Slave Breakers world.
Jesse's story was even more rewarding and memorable to me than Bran's was and that in itself is saying a lot as Bran's story still echoes in my mind quite clearly. The writing is beyond amazing and the "each has his or her own heartbreaking story" cast of characters that inhabit this world make it so damn fascinating and addictive.
HIGHLY recommended reading!
October 17, 2012
I've read all the books in the series Slave Breakers. I think the author did not like slavery. She does not really believe that it may be good for anyone. One could describe Holden, the main character, as a master who has a velvet hand in a velvet glove.
I understand that the author has created a situation where the retrainers are literally saving the lives of slaves cruelly mistreated by their former masters. We could not bring a broken slave to life by hitting him, even gently. So her context is well suited to the nature of the dominant -- not so dominant.
As for her slaves, although they are 16 or 17 years-old, they behave like lost 11-12 years-old children, always snuggling against everyone and sit on every adult's lap. It is charming but unrealistic. My knowledge of adolescents aged 16-17 has a different story. And even in the context of slavery, since they are first sold at the age of 15 years, they should rebel against the cruelty of their masters. But no, they crash, let themselves be destroyed. The only ex-slave who is said having been resisting is Holden himself, but the author does not describe (or very little) that part of his life.
As I was about to read this first book of the series, I imagined a couple receiving of other discouraged masters their rebellious slaves, and the couple finding a way to break theses slaves into the perfect ones that any master would dream. But no,these are the story of loving dominants with broken slaves.
I understand that the author has created a situation where the retrainers are literally saving the lives of slaves cruelly mistreated by their former masters. We could not bring a broken slave to life by hitting him, even gently. So her context is well suited to the nature of the dominant -- not so dominant.
As for her slaves, although they are 16 or 17 years-old, they behave like lost 11-12 years-old children, always snuggling against everyone and sit on every adult's lap. It is charming but unrealistic. My knowledge of adolescents aged 16-17 has a different story. And even in the context of slavery, since they are first sold at the age of 15 years, they should rebel against the cruelty of their masters. But no, they crash, let themselves be destroyed. The only ex-slave who is said having been resisting is Holden himself, but the author does not describe (or very little) that part of his life.
As I was about to read this first book of the series, I imagined a couple receiving of other discouraged masters their rebellious slaves, and the couple finding a way to break theses slaves into the perfect ones that any master would dream. But no,these are the story of loving dominants with broken slaves.
December 5, 2012
Jesse's Story deserves its own review, but please see my reviews for Bran's Story and Lee's Story so what I say here makes a little more sense.
http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
January 24, 2016
This series should really be called "The Slave Breakers and Bran" because the series centers around Bran, though it comes from the other boy's perspective. Jesse is a transient; he comes and goes by the end of the story and is just the means of progressing Bran and Holden's love story. It somehow worked for me, and I enjoyed seeing Jesse's reaction to their bizarre relationship. He sort of reflects the reader. Why won't you just say you love him?
One aspect that still gets me is that I don't actually find Holden likable at all. I don't understand how he can be a former slave and have slaves yet still sort of be a dick to them. Oh, he is affectionate and loving, but he just gets on my nerves. So I can't really say I care much for his relationship at all.
I don't really know what else to say about this one. If you read the first one then decide to read the second one, you've already been hooked. They're simple reads that don't involve a lot of investment (though I'll be honest, I shed some tears for Bran during the total reading). If you have a couple hours to spare, jump on this.
One aspect that still gets me is that I don't actually find Holden likable at all. I don't understand how he can be a former slave and have slaves yet still sort of be a dick to them. Oh, he is affectionate and loving, but he just gets on my nerves. So I can't really say I care much for his relationship at all.
I don't really know what else to say about this one. If you read the first one then decide to read the second one, you've already been hooked. They're simple reads that don't involve a lot of investment (though I'll be honest, I shed some tears for Bran during the total reading). If you have a couple hours to spare, jump on this.
September 10, 2010
Ahhh, I loved Jesse!!! I am seriously impressed with Maculategiraffe's ability to write her protagonists - excellent job!
This was like watching an episode of House, MD. The psychological insights and observations, the witty repartees - entirely enjoyable!
In fact, I would have given this 5 stars, if it wasn't for my lingering unease with Bran's part of the story. Sweet Bran has finally received the declaration of love that he has been waiting for. But is it really going to be better for him? I cannot believe that his HEA will be with Holden, because even though Holden is a delightful character on the page (as are all the people in the SlaveBreaker world)... I guess I'll just have to wait and see.
This was like watching an episode of House, MD. The psychological insights and observations, the witty repartees - entirely enjoyable!
In fact, I would have given this 5 stars, if it wasn't for my lingering unease with Bran's part of the story. Sweet Bran has finally received the declaration of love that he has been waiting for. But is it really going to be better for him? I cannot believe that his HEA will be with Holden, because even though Holden is a delightful character on the page (as are all the people in the SlaveBreaker world)... I guess I'll just have to wait and see.
April 22, 2012
So again, I don't do romance. But I couldn't help myself after reading the first one. The second one just as good as the first, though with a remarkably different character as the focus. I say remarkably because so much of what is flooding the market these days is cookie cutter crap, and this is pretty much the opposite of that. Really well written, much better than (again) so much stuff currently flooding the market. The characters are interesting and believable, the storyline itself is interesting...highly recommended. I'm not a fan of romance, softcore or otherwise (and this is definitely otherwise), so be aware there are some sex scenes in here, but the story isn't about sex. And that's awesome. The story could stand on its own without those scenes.
May 21, 2014
I don't know what I expected when I ordered this book...adventure? redemption? science fantasy of some kind? The synopsis sounded different from anything I'd read before and I was intrigued.
The disclaimer at the beginning put me off a bit. As a hetero woman, gay porn is not my thing. But I figured I had nothing to lose so I started reading.
Boy, am I glad I did! What a beautiful, well-written love story! It made me cry more than once. I love these characters and I love how they interact. I read the first two books in a day.
If loving, mature relationships between multiple people freaks you out, this may not be the book for you. But if you like a story about how love and kindness can overcome the scars of the past, I highly recommend it.
The disclaimer at the beginning put me off a bit. As a hetero woman, gay porn is not my thing. But I figured I had nothing to lose so I started reading.
Boy, am I glad I did! What a beautiful, well-written love story! It made me cry more than once. I love these characters and I love how they interact. I read the first two books in a day.
If loving, mature relationships between multiple people freaks you out, this may not be the book for you. But if you like a story about how love and kindness can overcome the scars of the past, I highly recommend it.
March 14, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this second part to Bran's Story. I expected this to be a near standalone sequel, but really it was primarily just a continuation of the exploration of the relationship between Bran and Holden and their family.
Jesse is thrown in just as the... pot stirrer. He's the one that causes the relationship to progress, but it was going there anyway. And it is a sweet, happy story of slavery with minimal violence (although Jesse has previously experienced some very bad treatment, which is referenced... and Bran enjoys bruises and bites of affection).
Jesse is thrown in just as the... pot stirrer. He's the one that causes the relationship to progress, but it was going there anyway. And it is a sweet, happy story of slavery with minimal violence (although Jesse has previously experienced some very bad treatment, which is referenced... and Bran enjoys bruises and bites of affection).
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