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Tainted #1
Tainted Blood
Gabriel Jordan lives a lonely life on the streets, taking the rare job that usually means spending hours in the cold, waiting for a chance to take a photograph of a cheating spouse. That’s how he meets Dr. Aleksei Tennant—who he sees suspiciously jumping from a window of a woman’s apartment. Tennant introduces Gabriel to the hidden worlds, magical worlds connected to this one by portals. Gabriel is eager to learn the runes for opening them, Tennant is eager to teach, and a fragile friendship develops amidst a series of murders.
These aren’t just any murders. The killer has a grudge against the mixture of other he doesn't kill humans, only those of the hidden worlds who are producing children of tainted blood. When the killer attacks them directly, Gabriel and Tennant have to team up to find the murderer, even though they’re putting themselves, their love, and any chance at a future together, in danger.
These aren’t just any murders. The killer has a grudge against the mixture of other he doesn't kill humans, only those of the hidden worlds who are producing children of tainted blood. When the killer attacks them directly, Gabriel and Tennant have to team up to find the murderer, even though they’re putting themselves, their love, and any chance at a future together, in danger.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2010
6 people are currently reading
644 people want to read
About the author
Sam C. Leonhard
17 books33 followersSam C. Leonhard is a journalist by profession who lives in southern Germany. Writing has been part of her life since age twenty, but somehow it was never enough to report the latest news about small-town politics. She wrote short stories for friends and family until a few years back she discovered the world of fandom. The Petulant Poetess is where she feels at home; slash became an addiction as soon as she stumbled over the first story.
If not writing—which isn't half as often as she'd like—Sam takes care of her son, her dog, a few cats, the madness at work, and life in general. She likes to believe she’s got some humor left after years of dealing with people who usually don’t understand what she’s talking about when she says she’s writing fantasy and gay porn on top of it.
If not writing—which isn't half as often as she'd like—Sam takes care of her son, her dog, a few cats, the madness at work, and life in general. She likes to believe she’s got some humor left after years of dealing with people who usually don’t understand what she’s talking about when she says she’s writing fantasy and gay porn on top of it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 18, 2011
This book is a Willem de Kooning painting: chunks of awkward lumpen prose, flung together with tiny flecks of sparkling dialogue, and dribbles of instalove, that as a whole make something far more engaging and interesting than the most delicately crafted, carefully modelled story. Leonhard also includes either the most god-awful, ham-fisted, hoary old plot device OR a witty, ironic homage to the origins of slash fiction.
It's a really charming book, and I think all m/m lovers should read it. I expect the second in the series will be even better.
It's a really charming book, and I think all m/m lovers should read it. I expect the second in the series will be even better.
December 18, 2011
Enjoyable m/m paranormal fantasy about two mysterious non-humans trying to fit in to a human world. Gabriel is homeless, barely surviving by taking photos for a seedy PI firm. While staking out an apartment on a freezing night he spies a man floating down from a window which leads to truths about the world he barely knew existed.
This is a great pairing, the downbeat, desperate and magic-ignorant Gabriel and the powerful, aloof Dr Tennant. They are thrown together, first by the Doctor's fascination with Gabriel's origins, then by a series of murders that put them both in danger.
It's lovely to see a real friendship grow between the two men. It suits them, especially since neither of them have really known love before. And when they do fall in love it causes a lot of confusion and misunderstanding.
It's an intriguing fantasy world of different portals where different magical beings live and the mystery plot is full of adventure and danger. While there's a HEA, the epilogue definitely sets up for a sequel which, luckily for me, is out tomorrow.
This is a great pairing, the downbeat, desperate and magic-ignorant Gabriel and the powerful, aloof Dr Tennant. They are thrown together, first by the Doctor's fascination with Gabriel's origins, then by a series of murders that put them both in danger.
It's lovely to see a real friendship grow between the two men. It suits them, especially since neither of them have really known love before. And when they do fall in love it causes a lot of confusion and misunderstanding.
It's an intriguing fantasy world of different portals where different magical beings live and the mystery plot is full of adventure and danger. While there's a HEA, the epilogue definitely sets up for a sequel which, luckily for me, is out tomorrow.
March 31, 2011
Twenty-seven year old Gabriel Jordan has had it hard. Directly after his birth, his drug - addicted mother dumped him into a trash bin. His beloved grandmother took him in, but she turned mad when he was still little, condemning him to a childhood with a variety of foster parents who didn't seem to care for him, hardly could remember his name and always returned him to the orphanage. He lives on the streets, keeps a low profile since he has no ID, and catches unfaithful spouses or cheating employees with his camera for a living, earning barely enough to keep him going.
While watching the window of a young woman on a particularly cold winter's day, he sees a man floating down to earth from there. Unlike most other people, the runewise Dr. Tennant notices Gabriel. He tries to get Gabriel to forget about him using a rune, but is intrigued when Gabriel shakes off the effects of the rune with remarkable ease. Tennant wants to learn more about the strange young man, and since it happens to be Christmas Day, he invites Gabriel into his house. That's how a tender friendship builds between Gabriel and Tennant, which gradually turns into more. The tentative love between the men is badly tested when a series of murders occur. Not humans, but only people of the Otherworld who created "tainted blood", offspring with humans, are killed. But then one of Gabriels few friends, "tainted blood" himself, is murdered. Gabriel and Tennant come closer to the killer than they ever intended, and maybe closer than their love can stand.
This urban fantasy was entertaining to read, although it often resorted to stereotypes. The human world is separated from seventeen other worlds populated with the usual vampires and shapeshifters, but also with more unusual creatures like mermaids, fae, centaurs, tree-nymphs some of which are not so very often found in other fantasy stories. Humans fear the nonhuman creatures and tend to kill the ones they notice, so the nonhumans keep a low profile in the human world. Most humans are aware there is magic, but since humans can't master it, it is prohibited. Magic is mostly used for disguises or for traveling between the worlds, spells are worked through runes.
I found some scenes, some character's motivations awfully far fetched, even for a fantasy book - particularly Ronai's. Then again, the man is crazy as a bat, others might not be bothered by his illogical reasoning
Gabriel and Tennant were loveable characters and inherently consistent. I liked particularly their different voices, with Tennant using more formular, Gabriel more modern language, as fits their respective experience of life.
But sometimes, they were just so thick it called for some serious head-smacking. The author could have shown more mercy to two presumably bright minded men instead of taking refuge in a magical curse to put them into bed together, by example.
Recommended for fantasy fans who don't mind having their logic stretched a bit, and for those who enjoy a sweet romantic fairytale laced with traces of darkness.
While watching the window of a young woman on a particularly cold winter's day, he sees a man floating down to earth from there. Unlike most other people, the runewise Dr. Tennant notices Gabriel. He tries to get Gabriel to forget about him using a rune, but is intrigued when Gabriel shakes off the effects of the rune with remarkable ease. Tennant wants to learn more about the strange young man, and since it happens to be Christmas Day, he invites Gabriel into his house. That's how a tender friendship builds between Gabriel and Tennant, which gradually turns into more. The tentative love between the men is badly tested when a series of murders occur. Not humans, but only people of the Otherworld who created "tainted blood", offspring with humans, are killed. But then one of Gabriels few friends, "tainted blood" himself, is murdered. Gabriel and Tennant come closer to the killer than they ever intended, and maybe closer than their love can stand.
This urban fantasy was entertaining to read, although it often resorted to stereotypes. The human world is separated from seventeen other worlds populated with the usual vampires and shapeshifters, but also with more unusual creatures like mermaids, fae, centaurs, tree-nymphs some of which are not so very often found in other fantasy stories. Humans fear the nonhuman creatures and tend to kill the ones they notice, so the nonhumans keep a low profile in the human world. Most humans are aware there is magic, but since humans can't master it, it is prohibited. Magic is mostly used for disguises or for traveling between the worlds, spells are worked through runes.
I found some scenes, some character's motivations awfully far fetched, even for a fantasy book - particularly Ronai's. Then again, the man is crazy as a bat, others might not be bothered by his illogical reasoning
Gabriel and Tennant were loveable characters and inherently consistent. I liked particularly their different voices, with Tennant using more formular, Gabriel more modern language, as fits their respective experience of life.
But sometimes, they were just so thick it called for some serious head-smacking. The author could have shown more mercy to two presumably bright minded men instead of taking refuge in a magical curse to put them into bed together, by example.
Recommended for fantasy fans who don't mind having their logic stretched a bit, and for those who enjoy a sweet romantic fairytale laced with traces of darkness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2012
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this story. Since I don't read blurbs I was expecting something different but what I got was definitely a pleasant surprise.
Gabriel Jordan is a homeless man who occasionally acts as a freelance photographer for a private investigator. When he's tasked with getting evidence of an affair, Gabriel accidentally sees Dr. Aleksei Tennant breaking into and out of the apartment of the woman he's watching. When Aleksei notices Gabriel, he uses his extensive knowledge of runes to make Gabriel forget him. Only problem is Gabriel seems to fight the runes. What happens next is spawned by Aleksei's fascination with Gabriel and brings Gabriel into multiple worlds of murder, deceit and a whole heap of danger.
I loved these characters. Gabriel has wolf shifter blood in him but he can't shift which made for some definitely interesting reading considering he still has heightened wolf senses. I found it strangely cute how Gabriel talked to himself so much. It was just too adorable since Aleksei tended to overhear what Gabriel was saying. I laughed a few times because of it. Aleksei was a surprise. He seems so harmless but he's really quite dangerous and mysterious. He teaches Gabriel about runes and how to use them properly but the whole time he's still keeping secrets from Gabriel. I loved the connection between these two. It seems one-sided most of the time but becomes obvious later it's not. The sexual tension between Aleksei and Gabriel was so thick and I loved seeing Gabriel's reaction to it and to Aleksei.
The story is quite fascinating. Learning about runes and the different worlds there are and how Gabriel and Aleksei connect to all of them was quite interesting. The mystery made the story suspenseful and adventurous. I know I was hanging on the edge of my seat once or twice anticipating what would happen next. The tension between Gabriel and Aleksei had me enjoying the parts not related to the mystery but more than that Gabriel AND Aleksei are enigmas. I was so curious to figure out what they both were and how they related to this new and captivating world.
The book is very engaging, one I wanted to devour but I did have a few problems with it. At times, I wanted to smack Gabriel because he was being stupid either jumping to conclusions over Aleksei or doing something he shouldn't have been doing. Also, the story is pretty much left on a cliffhanger which kind of irked me because part of the epilogue sets up the sequel. There are also a few questions I had regarding Gabriel like what kind of creature is in his mysterious blood but I'm guessing we learn that in the sequel. I will say that the epilogue (or most of it) was very, very satisfying. I'm happy with where it headed and how they ended up. I was a bit worried there but glad I was worrying for nothing!
All in all, I really enjoyed this story. I was surprised by how much I was drawn into the book not just because of the characters but the mystery and the world itself. I'm definitely looking forward to reading the sequel.
Gabriel Jordan is a homeless man who occasionally acts as a freelance photographer for a private investigator. When he's tasked with getting evidence of an affair, Gabriel accidentally sees Dr. Aleksei Tennant breaking into and out of the apartment of the woman he's watching. When Aleksei notices Gabriel, he uses his extensive knowledge of runes to make Gabriel forget him. Only problem is Gabriel seems to fight the runes. What happens next is spawned by Aleksei's fascination with Gabriel and brings Gabriel into multiple worlds of murder, deceit and a whole heap of danger.
I loved these characters. Gabriel has wolf shifter blood in him but he can't shift which made for some definitely interesting reading considering he still has heightened wolf senses. I found it strangely cute how Gabriel talked to himself so much. It was just too adorable since Aleksei tended to overhear what Gabriel was saying. I laughed a few times because of it. Aleksei was a surprise. He seems so harmless but he's really quite dangerous and mysterious. He teaches Gabriel about runes and how to use them properly but the whole time he's still keeping secrets from Gabriel. I loved the connection between these two. It seems one-sided most of the time but becomes obvious later it's not. The sexual tension between Aleksei and Gabriel was so thick and I loved seeing Gabriel's reaction to it and to Aleksei.
The story is quite fascinating. Learning about runes and the different worlds there are and how Gabriel and Aleksei connect to all of them was quite interesting. The mystery made the story suspenseful and adventurous. I know I was hanging on the edge of my seat once or twice anticipating what would happen next. The tension between Gabriel and Aleksei had me enjoying the parts not related to the mystery but more than that Gabriel AND Aleksei are enigmas. I was so curious to figure out what they both were and how they related to this new and captivating world.
The book is very engaging, one I wanted to devour but I did have a few problems with it. At times, I wanted to smack Gabriel because he was being stupid either jumping to conclusions over Aleksei or doing something he shouldn't have been doing. Also, the story is pretty much left on a cliffhanger which kind of irked me because part of the epilogue sets up the sequel. There are also a few questions I had regarding Gabriel like what kind of creature is in his mysterious blood but I'm guessing we learn that in the sequel. I will say that the epilogue (or most of it) was very, very satisfying. I'm happy with where it headed and how they ended up. I was a bit worried there but glad I was worrying for nothing!
All in all, I really enjoyed this story. I was surprised by how much I was drawn into the book not just because of the characters but the mystery and the world itself. I'm definitely looking forward to reading the sequel.
December 25, 2011
First of all, I need to thank Mandy because without her posting her review (and popped up on my update), I would miss this great urban fantasy story!
I think I have slightly good history when the urban fantasy is about fae, either on mainstream novels or m/m ones. And this one is simply engaging. While the narration is totally from Gabriel's point of view (using 3rd person) but it gives enough 'power' to introduce the intriguing world of hidden portals and runes and human with 'tainted' blood. Although because it IS Gabriel's voice, his potential lover, Aleksei Tennant (good nod to Dr. Who there), comes as rather mysterious and aloof, even until the end of the story.
It's a story that offers strong characters, believable and well-developed relationship, with dangers lurking on the corner, imbued with great fantasy storyline. I love it ... and that ending is a smart way to tease us with sequel. Luckily, I read this after the sequel is already published, so I can read that one.
I think I have slightly good history when the urban fantasy is about fae, either on mainstream novels or m/m ones. And this one is simply engaging. While the narration is totally from Gabriel's point of view (using 3rd person) but it gives enough 'power' to introduce the intriguing world of hidden portals and runes and human with 'tainted' blood. Although because it IS Gabriel's voice, his potential lover, Aleksei Tennant (good nod to Dr. Who there), comes as rather mysterious and aloof, even until the end of the story.
It's a story that offers strong characters, believable and well-developed relationship, with dangers lurking on the corner, imbued with great fantasy storyline. I love it ... and that ending is a smart way to tease us with sequel. Luckily, I read this after the sequel is already published, so I can read that one.
August 17, 2011
This book teetered between 3.5 and 4 stars for me.
This book is set in a world where you can access other fantasy world through portals. In addition to earth there are 17 other worlds where you can find shifters, fae, mermaids, vampires etc... Gabriel is a homeless man with a camera and a mysterious mixed heritage. Part shifter and part something else, Gabriel just attempts to stay out of everyone's way, take pictures of cheating spouses and the like for his morally questionable boss. One night he encounters a man he can't explain but one he is drawn to, Doc Tennant. The men over the course of the book develop a wonderful friendship and they both prove to be smart and quick think in almost every situation, unless it involves their relationship, then then their collective IQ drops to something lower than a carpet.
The story, told solely from Gabriel's POV, develops slow but I didn't mind the pace. It was interesting as the two try to solve a series of murders while trying to figure out Gabriel's heritage and dancing around their growing attraction to each other. We learn about the magic of the world of the story and we wonder about the inconsistencies in the Doc's persona. Then we start getting answers, but shortly after that, the story starts to fall apart for me.
I think it speaks to the author's strength in creating really terrific character's and a great world, that the story lost me when it did. I love paranormal and urban fantasy type stories, and the good ones are hard to find. Leonhard crafted a wonderful one, and it seemed to me it got weaker when the romantic aspect was brought to the forefront. I almost feel like the sexual escapades of the main character's would best be served as sexy shorts released between the novels, so that the books could focus on the story.
Overall, I'd say read it. The good outweighed the bad by a decent margin. I feel like it would have been a solid 4 star read for me had all the stuff I disliked not come at the end of the story (I mean if the stuff I didn't like had come in the middle and the story had ended strong for me.) With a few edits it could have even been a 5 star read for me easily. I am looking forward to the next book. A lot of my favorite series had a first book syndrome but I can't give up on the potential I see.
This book is set in a world where you can access other fantasy world through portals. In addition to earth there are 17 other worlds where you can find shifters, fae, mermaids, vampires etc... Gabriel is a homeless man with a camera and a mysterious mixed heritage. Part shifter and part something else, Gabriel just attempts to stay out of everyone's way, take pictures of cheating spouses and the like for his morally questionable boss. One night he encounters a man he can't explain but one he is drawn to, Doc Tennant. The men over the course of the book develop a wonderful friendship and they both prove to be smart and quick think in almost every situation, unless it involves their relationship, then then their collective IQ drops to something lower than a carpet.
The story, told solely from Gabriel's POV, develops slow but I didn't mind the pace. It was interesting as the two try to solve a series of murders while trying to figure out Gabriel's heritage and dancing around their growing attraction to each other. We learn about the magic of the world of the story and we wonder about the inconsistencies in the Doc's persona. Then we start getting answers, but shortly after that, the story starts to fall apart for me.
I think it speaks to the author's strength in creating really terrific character's and a great world, that the story lost me when it did. I love paranormal and urban fantasy type stories, and the good ones are hard to find. Leonhard crafted a wonderful one, and it seemed to me it got weaker when the romantic aspect was brought to the forefront. I almost feel like the sexual escapades of the main character's would best be served as sexy shorts released between the novels, so that the books could focus on the story.
Overall, I'd say read it. The good outweighed the bad by a decent margin. I feel like it would have been a solid 4 star read for me had all the stuff I disliked not come at the end of the story (I mean if the stuff I didn't like had come in the middle and the story had ended strong for me.) With a few edits it could have even been a 5 star read for me easily. I am looking forward to the next book. A lot of my favorite series had a first book syndrome but I can't give up on the potential I see.
February 19, 2024
DNF 50%
I am done with it.
Not a single character in this book makes sense. Their actions make no sense.
No chemistry between the MCs either.
A total chaos.
I am done with it.
Not a single character in this book makes sense. Their actions make no sense.
No chemistry between the MCs either.
A total chaos.
November 16, 2011
4.5 Stars
What a great story - I was hooked from page 1! Dr. Tennant (yes, I had a giggle right away) and Gabriel meet on a cold Christmas Eve when Gabriel sees Tennant jump from an apartment window. Rather than leaving a horrible mess on the pavement like Gabriel had envisioned, he sees Tennant gently float to the ground, then must shake off the sleeping/forgetting rune that Tennant uses on him. Very slowly Aleksei Tennant and Gabriel Jordan forge a cautious friendship while at the same time trying to discover who is murdering beings from magical hidden worlds.
I really liked Tennant and Gabriel. The characters were not one-dimensional; I liked them because of their flaws rather than in spite of them. The story was well paced - I certainly didn't notice any parts that dragged - and the mystery kept me interested. The romance between the MCs built slowly and really isn't realized until near the end of the books. And yet you don't feel cheated because it is so obvious that they care, even love each, other long before they admit it to each other (even though I did want to grab them, shake them and make them talk to each other!!!
I'm so glad to read that there is a sequel in the works! I'll be waiting for it!
What a great story - I was hooked from page 1! Dr. Tennant (yes, I had a giggle right away) and Gabriel meet on a cold Christmas Eve when Gabriel sees Tennant jump from an apartment window. Rather than leaving a horrible mess on the pavement like Gabriel had envisioned, he sees Tennant gently float to the ground, then must shake off the sleeping/forgetting rune that Tennant uses on him. Very slowly Aleksei Tennant and Gabriel Jordan forge a cautious friendship while at the same time trying to discover who is murdering beings from magical hidden worlds.
I really liked Tennant and Gabriel. The characters were not one-dimensional; I liked them because of their flaws rather than in spite of them. The story was well paced - I certainly didn't notice any parts that dragged - and the mystery kept me interested. The romance between the MCs built slowly and really isn't realized until near the end of the books. And yet you don't feel cheated because it is so obvious that they care, even love each, other long before they admit it to each other (even though I did want to grab them, shake them and make them talk to each other!!!
I'm so glad to read that there is a sequel in the works! I'll be waiting for it!
January 16, 2012
I picked this book up after seeing Cayce's updates about the sequel, so glad I did!
This was such an amazingly engaging read! The mystery, the urban fantasy setting, the friendship between the MCs and the perfect pacing kept me happily reading and waiting to see what would happen next. Gabriel is one of those characters that I love in a story, an underdog with intelligence and a troubled past that makes the reader protective. Tennant is the perfect other half of this friendship that develops, and this is a friendship that the reader believes in. Love them together. The ending leaves you with a little enticement to see where the next installment of this series goes. Great read!
This was such an amazingly engaging read! The mystery, the urban fantasy setting, the friendship between the MCs and the perfect pacing kept me happily reading and waiting to see what would happen next. Gabriel is one of those characters that I love in a story, an underdog with intelligence and a troubled past that makes the reader protective. Tennant is the perfect other half of this friendship that develops, and this is a friendship that the reader believes in. Love them together. The ending leaves you with a little enticement to see where the next installment of this series goes. Great read!
May 22, 2010
This was a wonderful read! For those of you who are fans of m/m urban fantasy books, but can't stand how most m/m characters are having sex twenty pages into the book, then you will love this. In Tainted Blood, Leonhard creates a fascinating world with fae, tree nymphs, shapeshifters, rune magic, and more. It has a fast-paced plot and well-developed characters--I fell in love with the two leading men and hope Leonhard is working on a sequel!
November 21, 2012
Oh, how to rate this? If I were to treat it seriously, I'd solidly give it 1 star. If I were to take into account the ludicrousness of the characters, I'd give it 2 stars.
I was unable to bond with the characters and find their actions, thoughts and feelings believable. There were some interesting concepts and ideas woven into the story line (like the runes and the various abilities). But the 2 MC that should have kept me glued to the book only pushed me away. So in the end, just 1 star for this.
I was unable to bond with the characters and find their actions, thoughts and feelings believable. There were some interesting concepts and ideas woven into the story line (like the runes and the various abilities). But the 2 MC that should have kept me glued to the book only pushed me away. So in the end, just 1 star for this.
July 10, 2014
Great book, with an interesting world and a nice detective plot. There was only one loose thread in the end (the unknown nature of some of the heritage of the main character), but with a short scene in the end this loose thread becomes a cliffhanger and now we really need to read the sequel :)
The story is based on the idea that there a number of worlds, interconnected by passages that can be opened by those that know and can use runes. There are a multitude of fantasy creatures in the story, from mermaids (living in our world and talking advantage of rich men) to centaurs, vampires and elves. Humans don't get along with either of them and the portals between words cannot be usually used by humans.
I don't want to say too much because it's to easy to spoil it - the discovery of certain things is part of the plot and it's pretty well done. I certainly didn't get bored by the world-building.
The love story is slow and sweet.
The story is based on the idea that there a number of worlds, interconnected by passages that can be opened by those that know and can use runes. There are a multitude of fantasy creatures in the story, from mermaids (living in our world and talking advantage of rich men) to centaurs, vampires and elves. Humans don't get along with either of them and the portals between words cannot be usually used by humans.
I don't want to say too much because it's to easy to spoil it - the discovery of certain things is part of the plot and it's pretty well done. I certainly didn't get bored by the world-building.
The love story is slow and sweet.
September 2, 2017
Not for me. I seem to be the odd one out with this book because most GR folk seem to really like it. The writing style really didn't agree with me and I found the main character kind of annoying, so I stopped about a quarter of the way in. This sounded cool and like it might be my sort of thing, but between the writing and the annoying main character, I just couldn't continue. Unfortunately, this was not my cup of tea.
May 9, 2010
I am usually not so much for paranormal stories, but this one gripped me from the start. Can`t wait for the sequel (there will be one or not ?)
Vielen Dank, eie wirklich tolle Story
viele Grüße aus Dresden
Vielen Dank, eie wirklich tolle Story
viele Grüße aus Dresden
January 13, 2014
3.75
I'm a bit clueless as to how to rate this book.
On the one hand, I absolutely loved the basic story, I really liked the characters, and many of the ideas incorporated (the runes, the portals, the different worlds) were awesome. There were many different aspects here that I really thoroughly enjoyed, that I found unique and interesting, and, believe me, that is no small feat in my eyes anymore. The relationship between the protagonists changed and developed believably over time and I liked the fact that Aleksei Tennant was rather mysterious and not that easy to read right until the end.
On the other hand, I found the writing to be stilted sometimes and a little awkward, in the narration as well as in the dialogue scenes. Moreover, Sam Leonhard tends to explain a lot to the readers, even if it's rather unnecessary and even in situations where it feels inappropriate, for example by means of character dialogue that clearly doesn't fit the situation. This is one of my pet peeves (unbelievable, stilted, redundant, or inappropriate dialogue and narration generally is), and I didn't like it here either.
Also, the characters behaviours didn't make a lot of sense sometimes () and some explanations didn't add up either.
The thing is, I still had a great time reading this book, I was really curious to see how things would work out - and that made me pretty willing to look past these drawbacks. Good urban fantasy isn't all that easy to find, and idea-wise this is definitely on the better side of the scale. I'll definitely check out the sequel to this story!
I'm a bit clueless as to how to rate this book.
On the one hand, I absolutely loved the basic story, I really liked the characters, and many of the ideas incorporated (the runes, the portals, the different worlds) were awesome. There were many different aspects here that I really thoroughly enjoyed, that I found unique and interesting, and, believe me, that is no small feat in my eyes anymore. The relationship between the protagonists changed and developed believably over time and I liked the fact that Aleksei Tennant was rather mysterious and not that easy to read right until the end.
On the other hand, I found the writing to be stilted sometimes and a little awkward, in the narration as well as in the dialogue scenes. Moreover, Sam Leonhard tends to explain a lot to the readers, even if it's rather unnecessary and even in situations where it feels inappropriate, for example by means of character dialogue that clearly doesn't fit the situation. This is one of my pet peeves (unbelievable, stilted, redundant, or inappropriate dialogue and narration generally is), and I didn't like it here either.
Also, the characters behaviours didn't make a lot of sense sometimes () and some explanations didn't add up either.
The thing is, I still had a great time reading this book, I was really curious to see how things would work out - and that made me pretty willing to look past these drawbacks. Good urban fantasy isn't all that easy to find, and idea-wise this is definitely on the better side of the scale. I'll definitely check out the sequel to this story!
September 14, 2012
3.8 stars
A fantasy story with a bit of a different take on it, showcasing 'skills' that I have not seen in other stories.
Gabe takes GOTCHA! photos for a slimey and lazy PI in order to stave off hunger and limit his overnight stays at a homeless shelter. He grew up in a callous foster care system where he was forgotten or ignored from day to day and now strives to be seen and acknowledged by others.
Gabe sees Tennant leaving the apartment by the unusual means of floating down to the street. Following their confrontation, Tennant invites Gabe to stay with him as he is curious about Gabe's origins, abilities - and because he stinks.
The two of them team up in order to solve a series of crimes and begin to learn more about each other; their strengths and weaknesses. Where Tennant is uber reserved, Gabe is not although he does have his own secrets.
I greatly enjoyed this story but needed a break from the characters before I dived into book #2.
A fantasy story with a bit of a different take on it, showcasing 'skills' that I have not seen in other stories.
Gabe takes GOTCHA! photos for a slimey and lazy PI in order to stave off hunger and limit his overnight stays at a homeless shelter. He grew up in a callous foster care system where he was forgotten or ignored from day to day and now strives to be seen and acknowledged by others.
Gabe sees Tennant leaving the apartment by the unusual means of floating down to the street. Following their confrontation, Tennant invites Gabe to stay with him as he is curious about Gabe's origins, abilities - and because he stinks.
The two of them team up in order to solve a series of crimes and begin to learn more about each other; their strengths and weaknesses. Where Tennant is uber reserved, Gabe is not although he does have his own secrets.
I greatly enjoyed this story but needed a break from the characters before I dived into book #2.
October 23, 2011
When I started this book I wasn´t really in the mood for fantasy, but this book was still just right. I liked how the book was set in the modern day (but still in a very indistinct time and place).
It has a lot of very good elements magic, mythical creatures, mystery, murder, mansex (although you have to wait for it) and of course love!
The romance part doesn´t happen until the end of the book, and I thought that even the building friendship was put aside a little while the author presented the mysteries and world. It was a little irritating that the two main characters misunderstood each others one time to many before they finally got each other. However it was worth it for when they did get together!
The book left you with a big wide opening for a second book. I am a little torn between wanting to have those last pages unread and leaving the book the way it is or waiting eagerly for the next book.
It has a lot of very good elements magic, mythical creatures, mystery, murder, mansex (although you have to wait for it) and of course love!
The romance part doesn´t happen until the end of the book, and I thought that even the building friendship was put aside a little while the author presented the mysteries and world. It was a little irritating that the two main characters misunderstood each others one time to many before they finally got each other. However it was worth it for when they did get together!
The book left you with a big wide opening for a second book. I am a little torn between wanting to have those last pages unread and leaving the book the way it is or waiting eagerly for the next book.
January 31, 2013
O:
Blew away any and all paltry expectations I had.
It's interesting/weird, and I believe that it Actually Has a Plot. And there were emotions! And they were good! Completely coolio.
I wonder...is bk 2 going to be about that Petresh dude?
Blew away any and all paltry expectations I had.
It's interesting/weird, and I believe that it Actually Has a Plot. And there were emotions! And they were good! Completely coolio.
I wonder...is bk 2 going to be about that Petresh dude?
January 10, 2011
very good paranormal mystery and OMG THE END !!!! now I so want a sequel !!! I just loved how the hero can't stop thinking aloud and the two together ? so cute and funny !! and hot sex as well !!
December 31, 2016
Gabriel was a young homeless man who made money by doing odd jobs. He meets Aleksei on one of them. Alek is Fae and he discovers that Gabriel is something else also. The couple slowly come together. I loved how they had to hide they were not human because they would end up in jail or worse. Alek taught Gabriel about runes. They start to look into why people of mix races between fae and others are being murdered. Very good book.
March 4, 2017
I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did. Really liked it. Strong characters, intriguing plot, interesting world (well, worlds).
January 10, 2019
Something just a little off/awkward about most of the conversations. Interesting story anyway.
dnf
May 21, 2023Dnf @ 18%
September 25, 2024
3.5 stars
***Don’t slap someone’s back if they’re choking. It could make it worse. Use the Heimlich maneuver. If the person is too large, lay them on their back and do the chest compressions of CPR.***
I really enjoyed this book at first. Lots of action and danger, twists and turns, peril and bedside vigils. The mystery was good although it was solved almost by accident. But it kept me guessing. The whole book was great along those lines.
But some truths about Gabriel’s views on people and sex came out as the book progressed. By three quarters of the way through I was super pissed at him. He redeemed himself a little later but the damage was done. It would have been a five star book despite my complaints if the whole sexual stuff hadn’t happened. As it was, I nearly gave it a one, maybe a two but he redeemed himself sort of. So I’m rounding up to four. (More about this below.)
There were some serious inconsistencies like a sleep rune wouldn’t work on him and then it did. He could smell a person from a mile away but couldn’t smell blood on a windowsill if a curtain was in the way. No one notices him unless he wants them to except at the restaurant everyone sees him and judges him and he hates it (so why did he let himself be seen?)
I like how Gabriel treats his homeless friends. I think how he feels out of place everywhere is realistic. It’s weird that he speaks to himself out loud all the time but it’s quirky and I like quirky. But he’s a self absorbed guy who makes everything about him, including Tennant’s asexuality. When things get bad, he convinces himself it’s his fault and he runs away. I’m a fan of angst but something about this bothered me, probably because it happened frequently.
Everyone is thin in this book, slender, narrow, underweight but healthy and another who’s healthy but not much bigger than someone too thin. The only large people, one of whom is described as fat twice, is evil. As for the other one (also evil): “His butt was large, his legs chubby. Not a nice sight.” Gabriel had earlier described the man as average. So an average guy is not a nice sight?
Being cold isn’t a common symptom of heroin withdrawal and even if it were, that’s much milder than the real symptoms like exploding diarrhea, stomach cramps and vomiting, etc. Being able to sleep at night is not going to help with anything but the agitation.
It’s cute that a man who travels the worlds freely has named himself Doctor Tennant, the name of one of the most popular Doctors (actors) from Doctor Who. He admits he got it from a TV show. :)
There was a coerced sexual scene—with a virgin who planned to remain one—which didn’t need to happen. The person could have been tied down while a cure found or at least discussed but that didn’t happen. Maybe it wouldn’t have worked but he didn’t even try and he admitted that later.
But the book is like that. Gabriel keeps referring to sex inappropriately in my mind. Like referring to rape as if it’s just not a nice thing to do to someone you care about. He hunted men and women and convinced them to go to bed with him and it sounded just short of coercion. Then he later thinks, “I can’t let him know I want him so badly that I’d drag him to bed whether he likes it or not. He’d hate me for so much as considering it.” “Hating” just doesn’t feel strong enough. “Horrified”? “Nauseated?” “Disgusted” “Repulsed”? But the man’s reaction shouldn’t be the reason Gabriel sees it as wrong.
When referring to his conquests he thinks anything is allowed.
Sounds like a half step below rape to me. You don’t have sex with an inebriated person. If you’ve established ahead of time that it’s okay, fine but that’s it. Gabriel also said that in all of his sexual encounters he was the dominant one and dominant ones don’t give blowjobs. That’s the job of thesubmissive “inferior” one. He actually said that. I can’t stand Gabriel when it comes to anything remotely sexual and since he’s hot for teacher and thinks about it often, it pervades the book even with the first sex scene appearing 3/4ths of the way through. The only thing that saves him about this is that he later admits how wrong it all was.
I read the blurb for the sequel and it sounds even worse. He has the urge to cheat. Not reading it unless I know he doesn’t and that the urge is magically induced.
***Don’t slap someone’s back if they’re choking. It could make it worse. Use the Heimlich maneuver. If the person is too large, lay them on their back and do the chest compressions of CPR.***
I really enjoyed this book at first. Lots of action and danger, twists and turns, peril and bedside vigils. The mystery was good although it was solved almost by accident. But it kept me guessing. The whole book was great along those lines.
But some truths about Gabriel’s views on people and sex came out as the book progressed. By three quarters of the way through I was super pissed at him. He redeemed himself a little later but the damage was done. It would have been a five star book despite my complaints if the whole sexual stuff hadn’t happened. As it was, I nearly gave it a one, maybe a two but he redeemed himself sort of. So I’m rounding up to four. (More about this below.)
There were some serious inconsistencies like a sleep rune wouldn’t work on him and then it did. He could smell a person from a mile away but couldn’t smell blood on a windowsill if a curtain was in the way. No one notices him unless he wants them to except at the restaurant everyone sees him and judges him and he hates it (so why did he let himself be seen?)
I like how Gabriel treats his homeless friends. I think how he feels out of place everywhere is realistic. It’s weird that he speaks to himself out loud all the time but it’s quirky and I like quirky. But he’s a self absorbed guy who makes everything about him, including Tennant’s asexuality. When things get bad, he convinces himself it’s his fault and he runs away. I’m a fan of angst but something about this bothered me, probably because it happened frequently.
Everyone is thin in this book, slender, narrow, underweight but healthy and another who’s healthy but not much bigger than someone too thin. The only large people, one of whom is described as fat twice, is evil. As for the other one (also evil): “His butt was large, his legs chubby. Not a nice sight.” Gabriel had earlier described the man as average. So an average guy is not a nice sight?
Being cold isn’t a common symptom of heroin withdrawal and even if it were, that’s much milder than the real symptoms like exploding diarrhea, stomach cramps and vomiting, etc. Being able to sleep at night is not going to help with anything but the agitation.
It’s cute that a man who travels the worlds freely has named himself Doctor Tennant, the name of one of the most popular Doctors (actors) from Doctor Who. He admits he got it from a TV show. :)
There was a coerced sexual scene—with a virgin who planned to remain one—which didn’t need to happen. The person could have been tied down while a cure found or at least discussed but that didn’t happen. Maybe it wouldn’t have worked but he didn’t even try and he admitted that later.
But the book is like that. Gabriel keeps referring to sex inappropriately in my mind. Like referring to rape as if it’s just not a nice thing to do to someone you care about. He hunted men and women and convinced them to go to bed with him and it sounded just short of coercion. Then he later thinks, “I can’t let him know I want him so badly that I’d drag him to bed whether he likes it or not. He’d hate me for so much as considering it.” “Hating” just doesn’t feel strong enough. “Horrified”? “Nauseated?” “Disgusted” “Repulsed”? But the man’s reaction shouldn’t be the reason Gabriel sees it as wrong.
When referring to his conquests he thinks anything is allowed.
“When chasing an unwilling victim, when persuading a straight guy to come into his bed, anything was allowed. Rape was out of the questionnaire, of course, but unfair methods were not. Often, his bed partners had woken up in his arms unable to run fast enough to get back to their normal lives, disgusted at themselves for what they had done under the influence of alcohol, drugs, and one kiss too many.
Sounds like a half step below rape to me. You don’t have sex with an inebriated person. If you’ve established ahead of time that it’s okay, fine but that’s it. Gabriel also said that in all of his sexual encounters he was the dominant one and dominant ones don’t give blowjobs. That’s the job of the
I read the blurb for the sequel and it sounds even worse. He has the urge to cheat. Not reading it unless I know he doesn’t and that the urge is magically induced.
December 12, 2012
I admit I had no idea what to expect when I was asked to read and review Tainted Blood by Sam C. Leonhard. Ms. Leonhard is a new author for me, so I was anxious to read this book. I was totally blown away by the creative world building and well-written characters this book has. Once I started reading it, I couldn’t stop. I was immediately swept up into the dangerous and intriguing lives of the author’s two heroes, and couldn’t wait to see how their story would end. Before I knew it, I had read the last page and was left with feeling of wanting more from these two men and the interesting world they live in. This is a difficult review to write because I really don’t want to spoil anything, so forgive me for treading lightly on the description of the story.
Gabriel has lived on the streets for most of his life. Most of the time he sleeps under bridges or in a local homeless shelter, but since he has wolf blood in him, he is restless to stay under one roof for too long. Even though he’s mixed with both human and wolf blood, Gabriel doesn’t shift, but instead he has very acute senses that usually keep him out of trouble. To make ends meet, Gabriel works an odd job here and there, but one of the most consistent jobs he does is investigative work for a local private detective. Of course, he’s given the sleaziest jobs where he usually has to catch cheaters and stand outside in the freezing cold for hours to get the picture needed for his next meal.
One night when Gabriel is on a job to catch a cheater in the act, he sees a man jump out of the window where his mark lives. When the man approaches him, he tries to wash his mind clear (called runes) so that Gabriel will not remember him. When this doesn’t work, the stranger, Dr. Aleksei Tennant, immediately becomes fascinated with Gabriel and takes him under his wing so he may study him. Despite his normal reservations, Gabriel finds himself intrigued and attracted to the handsome Aleksei. As the two men start to form a friendship, Gabriel finds himself wrapped up in a mystery of murder and deception that brings danger to both men.
I loved this book. LOVED IT! It’s full of suspense, action and romance and kept this reader on the edge of her seat the whole time I read this story. Gabriel is a truly likeable character and is a stronger man than he sometimes gives himself credit for. He’s used to keeping and being kept at arm’s length from others, so when Aleksei comes into his life, he’s almost overwhelmed and confused by the kindness and friendship Aleksei gives him.
Aleksei was a man of intrigue and mystery. There is certainly more to him than meets the eye, and I loved watching Gabriel unravel the mystery about him while both men fall deeply in love. I thought the chemistry between the two men was very strong and I loved the kinship and respect the two men had for one another.
There are many twists and turns in the story as the book progresses. So, those who love a fast-paced, well-written romance with a lot of action and suspense, this book is definitely one to be considered. There were some unanswered questions so I took some time to research this story and found out Tainted Blood is the first book in the ‘Tainted’ series. I’m anxious to pick up the next book and see how Gabriel and Aleksei’s life continues to progress. Highly Recommended!
The Tainted series in book order are:
Tainted Blood
Tainted Soul
Reviewed By: Gabbi
Gabriel has lived on the streets for most of his life. Most of the time he sleeps under bridges or in a local homeless shelter, but since he has wolf blood in him, he is restless to stay under one roof for too long. Even though he’s mixed with both human and wolf blood, Gabriel doesn’t shift, but instead he has very acute senses that usually keep him out of trouble. To make ends meet, Gabriel works an odd job here and there, but one of the most consistent jobs he does is investigative work for a local private detective. Of course, he’s given the sleaziest jobs where he usually has to catch cheaters and stand outside in the freezing cold for hours to get the picture needed for his next meal.
One night when Gabriel is on a job to catch a cheater in the act, he sees a man jump out of the window where his mark lives. When the man approaches him, he tries to wash his mind clear (called runes) so that Gabriel will not remember him. When this doesn’t work, the stranger, Dr. Aleksei Tennant, immediately becomes fascinated with Gabriel and takes him under his wing so he may study him. Despite his normal reservations, Gabriel finds himself intrigued and attracted to the handsome Aleksei. As the two men start to form a friendship, Gabriel finds himself wrapped up in a mystery of murder and deception that brings danger to both men.
I loved this book. LOVED IT! It’s full of suspense, action and romance and kept this reader on the edge of her seat the whole time I read this story. Gabriel is a truly likeable character and is a stronger man than he sometimes gives himself credit for. He’s used to keeping and being kept at arm’s length from others, so when Aleksei comes into his life, he’s almost overwhelmed and confused by the kindness and friendship Aleksei gives him.
Aleksei was a man of intrigue and mystery. There is certainly more to him than meets the eye, and I loved watching Gabriel unravel the mystery about him while both men fall deeply in love. I thought the chemistry between the two men was very strong and I loved the kinship and respect the two men had for one another.
There are many twists and turns in the story as the book progresses. So, those who love a fast-paced, well-written romance with a lot of action and suspense, this book is definitely one to be considered. There were some unanswered questions so I took some time to research this story and found out Tainted Blood is the first book in the ‘Tainted’ series. I’m anxious to pick up the next book and see how Gabriel and Aleksei’s life continues to progress. Highly Recommended!
The Tainted series in book order are:
Tainted Blood
Tainted Soul
Reviewed By: Gabbi
January 31, 2012
Before I say anything, I would like to thank Ariel from Dreamspinner Press for providing me with a copy of Tainted Blood when I foolishly requested the second novel without realising that it was part of a series.
Tainted Blood has caused me to nitpick a little bit with my rating, earning it a whole 3.75 stars, something that one would never see unless they were attempting to average a bunch of reviews. The novel was something that I really enjoyed reading, but it didn't quite earn four stars because of some of the less-wonderful points in the novel which mainly revolved around moments where Gabriel whined about the fact that he loved Dr. Tennant and the man would never feel the same way.
While stereotypes were called on when it came to this novel, Tainted Blood was a refreshing read and I really did enjoy it. The feistiness of Gabriel's personality and the way that Tennant was so intrigued by Gabriel and his magical wonders was surprisingly refreshing.
I really did enjoy the fact that not only did Gabriel find his way out of his homelessness and his crappy job of having to take pictures of people doing things like cheating on their spouses for his creepy boss, but he found someone that he fell in love with. The entire time I was rooting for Gabriel, waiting for him to find love in Tennant and the man to love him back. I honestly just wanted them to kiss.
But they definitely did much more than that. It was an intense read for someone who hadn't expected it to go from nothing to everything, but I won't lie and say that I didn't enjoy it. I just think it could have been toned down a little.
The end of the book was kind of awesome, and I expected it to take a different path, but was rather pleased that it didn't. I'm so used to what I predict in a novel coming true but I was pleasantly surprised to find that it wasn't the case and the ending made me appreciate the book a lot more that I had the knowledge that the author chose a different route from the typical.
I really did semi-love Tainted Blood and I would definitely read it again. Right now I'm reading the sequel and I can't wait to see what comes out of it!
Tainted Blood has caused me to nitpick a little bit with my rating, earning it a whole 3.75 stars, something that one would never see unless they were attempting to average a bunch of reviews. The novel was something that I really enjoyed reading, but it didn't quite earn four stars because of some of the less-wonderful points in the novel which mainly revolved around moments where Gabriel whined about the fact that he loved Dr. Tennant and the man would never feel the same way.
While stereotypes were called on when it came to this novel, Tainted Blood was a refreshing read and I really did enjoy it. The feistiness of Gabriel's personality and the way that Tennant was so intrigued by Gabriel and his magical wonders was surprisingly refreshing.
I really did enjoy the fact that not only did Gabriel find his way out of his homelessness and his crappy job of having to take pictures of people doing things like cheating on their spouses for his creepy boss, but he found someone that he fell in love with. The entire time I was rooting for Gabriel, waiting for him to find love in Tennant and the man to love him back. I honestly just wanted them to kiss.
But they definitely did much more than that. It was an intense read for someone who hadn't expected it to go from nothing to everything, but I won't lie and say that I didn't enjoy it. I just think it could have been toned down a little.
The end of the book was kind of awesome, and I expected it to take a different path, but was rather pleased that it didn't. I'm so used to what I predict in a novel coming true but I was pleasantly surprised to find that it wasn't the case and the ending made me appreciate the book a lot more that I had the knowledge that the author chose a different route from the typical.
I really did semi-love Tainted Blood and I would definitely read it again. Right now I'm reading the sequel and I can't wait to see what comes out of it!
February 15, 2013
To be perfectly honest, I ran across this novel quite by accident. I am waiting to read a few new books that are scheduled to be released later this week and early next week, but I wanted something to read to pass the time in the aftermath of the snow storm here on Long Island. So, I went to a favorite publisher's site and started looking for books that are part of a series (since I enjoy reading about recurrent characters in a variety of situations).
Tainted Blood is very different from the things that I normally read, but the sample portion of the book that was on the publisher's website sufficiently intrigued me to buy the book, and I am so very glad that I did. Although there is a fantasy element to this story, you don't need to be a sci-fi zealot to enjoy this book. The story is nothing like I have ever read before -- Gabriel, a down-on-his-luck drifter, comes upon an amiable man, Dr. Tennant (a/k/a Aleksei). We are initially told that "Doc" runs an umbrella manufacturing company, but that is just a convenient cover story for his real life. In reality, "Doc" is an expert at casting magic spells with runes, and he is a fae (fairy).
I don't want to spoil this story, but this book has the wonderful twists and turns of well-written detective novel. High praise to the author for crafting such a tightly written story. It should also be noted that the author has penned incredibly hot love scenes that are among the best that I have ever read. (It's also nice that the story isn't driven forward by sex scene after sex scene, which can become annoying in some romance novels. In this novel, the romance scenes are strategically placed to move the plot forward. In fact, one of the romance scenes is critically important to the resolution of another completely different section of the story.)
It is always a good thing when a novel turns into a page-turner, and the reader loses himself/herself in the story. This book is just such a page turner. There is a sequel to this novel that is foreshadowed at the end of the epilogue. Clearly, the second novel in this series is on my short list to read in the very near future.
Here's a quick summary of the book -- imaginative story, nice prose, good dialogue, excellent character development, and fantastic love scenes. Overall, Tainted Blood receives a surprising five stars from me.
Tainted Blood is very different from the things that I normally read, but the sample portion of the book that was on the publisher's website sufficiently intrigued me to buy the book, and I am so very glad that I did. Although there is a fantasy element to this story, you don't need to be a sci-fi zealot to enjoy this book. The story is nothing like I have ever read before -- Gabriel, a down-on-his-luck drifter, comes upon an amiable man, Dr. Tennant (a/k/a Aleksei). We are initially told that "Doc" runs an umbrella manufacturing company, but that is just a convenient cover story for his real life. In reality, "Doc" is an expert at casting magic spells with runes, and he is a fae (fairy).
I don't want to spoil this story, but this book has the wonderful twists and turns of well-written detective novel. High praise to the author for crafting such a tightly written story. It should also be noted that the author has penned incredibly hot love scenes that are among the best that I have ever read. (It's also nice that the story isn't driven forward by sex scene after sex scene, which can become annoying in some romance novels. In this novel, the romance scenes are strategically placed to move the plot forward. In fact, one of the romance scenes is critically important to the resolution of another completely different section of the story.)
It is always a good thing when a novel turns into a page-turner, and the reader loses himself/herself in the story. This book is just such a page turner. There is a sequel to this novel that is foreshadowed at the end of the epilogue. Clearly, the second novel in this series is on my short list to read in the very near future.
Here's a quick summary of the book -- imaginative story, nice prose, good dialogue, excellent character development, and fantastic love scenes. Overall, Tainted Blood receives a surprising five stars from me.
May 15, 2012
A very entertaining fantasy novel. I have to warn other readers though that this book goes a bit slower than the 2nd book but it's well worth it. While reading it I kind of was wishing I could have read it faster so I could get to the next installment since I thought it was that good. It was a bit like a drug for me since it had everything I would want to read in a fantasy novel: romance, magic, mystery, talk about other species and adventure. For a erotic novel or better yet a glbt novel from Dreamspinner, I expected there to be a lot more erotic passages in the story but there was just only two erotic passages in the story. I was happy to read about the developing feelings between Gabe and Doc, it really helped to connect to the MC's and aided with the character building. The world development could have used maybe a tad more improvement/detailing. The little bit readers got about rune magic was interesting and I would have liked to have read more about it.
January 8, 2013
The official blurb doesn't capture the charm of this story, which I enjoyed very much. Going in I thought it would be a straightforward paranormal, but the plot also features mystery/detective aspects that mix things up a little.
This story contained all the elements that I thought were missing from my recent fantasy reads; here we have a slowly-developing but meaningful relationship that doesn't rely on a large amount of sexual content to bring it depth and intensity.
I only have two reservations about the book. First off, the central conflict is one of those “misunderstandings” of the type featured so often in books and movies, that could have been cleared up with a two-minute frank conversation. Argh---you just want to knock these two guys’ heads together and tell them to TALK to each other, for goodness sake! But hey, that’s par for the course for drama, eh? If people talked openly and honestly to each other the story would be over before it started.
I also wasn't too happy regarding the circumstances of the initial consummation of the relationship between Aleksei and Gabriel---but can’t say anything more without giving away key plot points.
So overall, not a perfect book, but one I enjoyed. I’ll definitely be reading the sequel, titled "Tainted Soul." Recommended for fantasy lovers.
This story contained all the elements that I thought were missing from my recent fantasy reads; here we have a slowly-developing but meaningful relationship that doesn't rely on a large amount of sexual content to bring it depth and intensity.
I only have two reservations about the book. First off, the central conflict is one of those “misunderstandings” of the type featured so often in books and movies, that could have been cleared up with a two-minute frank conversation. Argh---you just want to knock these two guys’ heads together and tell them to TALK to each other, for goodness sake! But hey, that’s par for the course for drama, eh? If people talked openly and honestly to each other the story would be over before it started.
I also wasn't too happy regarding the circumstances of the initial consummation of the relationship between Aleksei and Gabriel---but can’t say anything more without giving away key plot points.
So overall, not a perfect book, but one I enjoyed. I’ll definitely be reading the sequel, titled "Tainted Soul." Recommended for fantasy lovers.
June 1, 2016
Hmm, this book leaves me rather divided.
It starts off really odd. It is a jumble of thoughts and words really, a story buried amidst some half formed thoughts and actions. There is no clear direction for the story and the characters are impulsive without reason, following actions that as of yet have no meaning. They are described in ways meant to highlight their looks, but then the ideas of their looks change and it is a long time before anything about it is explained. I spent most of the beginning two third wondering if the story would actually have any purpose.
The end third finally started to wrap itself into a cohesive story. The characters had more life to them and you could finally understand where they come from. The relationships started to make sense bit by bit. Also, the tantalizing world that was put in the background, this fascinating place of different realms and magical runes, comes more to the forefront to the benefit of the story. I finally became interested in what was happening and wanted to know where it would go.
On it's own I think I would leave this story. But, the ending leaves this little lead into the next story (such a cheat) and it has me curious. I'm hoping that it will follow more of the end third and be a cohesive and enjoyable second book.
It starts off really odd. It is a jumble of thoughts and words really, a story buried amidst some half formed thoughts and actions. There is no clear direction for the story and the characters are impulsive without reason, following actions that as of yet have no meaning. They are described in ways meant to highlight their looks, but then the ideas of their looks change and it is a long time before anything about it is explained. I spent most of the beginning two third wondering if the story would actually have any purpose.
The end third finally started to wrap itself into a cohesive story. The characters had more life to them and you could finally understand where they come from. The relationships started to make sense bit by bit. Also, the tantalizing world that was put in the background, this fascinating place of different realms and magical runes, comes more to the forefront to the benefit of the story. I finally became interested in what was happening and wanted to know where it would go.
On it's own I think I would leave this story. But, the ending leaves this little lead into the next story (such a cheat) and it has me curious. I'm hoping that it will follow more of the end third and be a cohesive and enjoyable second book.
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