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The Bid
At JAX, Jacquelyn Frank--the "New York Times"-bestselling author of the Nightwalkers and Shadowdwellers series--delivers a blisteringly hot erotic novel set in an exotic paranormal world.
Strapped and chained on the block, a masterpiece of naked flesh and muscle turns slowly, the eyes of the crowd devour the sight of Vejhon, whose platinum-white hair and cat-green eyes mark him as newly captured from a wild planet on the outer edges of space. The noblemen and women erupt in a bidding frenzy that finally stops on a man named Najir.
Strapped and chained on the block, a masterpiece of naked flesh and muscle turns slowly, the eyes of the crowd devour the sight of Vejhon, whose platinum-white hair and cat-green eyes mark him as newly captured from a wild planet on the outer edges of space. The noblemen and women erupt in a bidding frenzy that finally stops on a man named Najir.
288 pages, Paperback
First published September 27, 2010
7 people are currently reading
446 people want to read
About the author
Jax
27 books52 followersJax (Jacquelyn Frank) was born and raised in Brownsville, Texas. She is a retired schoolteacher with a Master's degree in Education and Bachelor's in Liberal Arts.
She is a contributing author to two pieces for Chicken Soup for the Latino Soul (Grandma's Recipe and A Bridge to Freedom. Her short story, A Shadow to Call her Own, was published by Amazon Shorts.com. Her self-published urban fantasy novel, Heart of the Jaguar, is the first out of three in the series of novels for young adults. She is currently conducting research and writing the prequel to her second novel.
Jacqueline Mendez has participated in several speaking engagements such as the Barnes & Noble Chicken Soup Spanish edition book signing (March 2008), the Reading Awareness symposium at Weslaco STC (Oct 20007), Latino Writer's Society in San Antonio, TX (April 2007), San Antonio College Author book Fair (April 14 2007), appeared on Radio Ventana - an online radio station (April 2007), spoke at the University of Texas at Brownsville (May 2007), the Edwards James Olmos festival in Dallas, TX (2006), made appearances in the San Antonio Living Show on WOAI (2005), and has done promotional readings with Barnes & Noble. She is also a member of IFMASA (Independent Film Maker's Association of San Antonio) and an advocate for battered women and children of abuse.
She is a contributing author to two pieces for Chicken Soup for the Latino Soul (Grandma's Recipe and A Bridge to Freedom. Her short story, A Shadow to Call her Own, was published by Amazon Shorts.com. Her self-published urban fantasy novel, Heart of the Jaguar, is the first out of three in the series of novels for young adults. She is currently conducting research and writing the prequel to her second novel.
Jacqueline Mendez has participated in several speaking engagements such as the Barnes & Noble Chicken Soup Spanish edition book signing (March 2008), the Reading Awareness symposium at Weslaco STC (Oct 20007), Latino Writer's Society in San Antonio, TX (April 2007), San Antonio College Author book Fair (April 14 2007), appeared on Radio Ventana - an online radio station (April 2007), spoke at the University of Texas at Brownsville (May 2007), the Edwards James Olmos festival in Dallas, TX (2006), made appearances in the San Antonio Living Show on WOAI (2005), and has done promotional readings with Barnes & Noble. She is also a member of IFMASA (Independent Film Maker's Association of San Antonio) and an advocate for battered women and children of abuse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
February 5, 2011
Take a look at the cover of this book. Then look back here. Perhaps you might be thinking this book features a threesome? After all, there are two exceeding hot guys kneeling at the feet of one woman. But you would be wrong.
I picked up this book based on the cover and the blurb on the back cover, which also doesn't do anything to change my impression that this was a threesome.
I feel like a victim of a bait and switch by the publisher. Instead of an erotic m/f/m slave story, I got a paranormal shifter possessive male/submissive female story. If I had wanted a book like that I would have sought out a story like that.
I debated giving this two stars, but I was so angry at how I'd been snookered into reading this. I'm also especially angry by the early gay-bashing that occurs. The bad guy is not only homosexual, he is a pedophile and a sadist. When the "hero" laments his slave state, he fears being sold to someone with "homosexual tendencies."
If that weren't enough, the plot goes from silly to absolutely ridiculous. Instead of the sci-fi world it starts out in, it takes a dive for the paranormal. Plus, the climax of the story depends on a sister who doesn't show up until the last 100 pages or so of the book. And the heroine, who is early one described as the intelligent, calculating master of her house, becomes a weeping thing around the hero.
Plus, add in some of the most disgusting and unsexy sex scenes I've ever read. This is the first time I've ever read "kitty" as a euphemism for a vagina. I'm no prude, seriously, but I detest boring, gross sex scenes. For a book that's advertised as erotica, I would have at least like to have enjoyed the sex scenes!
I usually pass books on to friends after reading them, but I don't even want to subject this book on any of them. The ONLY redeeming quality for this book is the cover. Do yourselves a favor and save the picture off the net.
I picked up this book based on the cover and the blurb on the back cover, which also doesn't do anything to change my impression that this was a threesome.
I feel like a victim of a bait and switch by the publisher. Instead of an erotic m/f/m slave story, I got a paranormal shifter possessive male/submissive female story. If I had wanted a book like that I would have sought out a story like that.
I debated giving this two stars, but I was so angry at how I'd been snookered into reading this. I'm also especially angry by the early gay-bashing that occurs. The bad guy is not only homosexual, he is a pedophile and a sadist. When the "hero" laments his slave state, he fears being sold to someone with "homosexual tendencies."
If that weren't enough, the plot goes from silly to absolutely ridiculous. Instead of the sci-fi world it starts out in, it takes a dive for the paranormal. Plus, the climax of the story depends on a sister who doesn't show up until the last 100 pages or so of the book. And the heroine, who is early one described as the intelligent, calculating master of her house, becomes a weeping thing around the hero.
Plus, add in some of the most disgusting and unsexy sex scenes I've ever read. This is the first time I've ever read "kitty" as a euphemism for a vagina. I'm no prude, seriously, but I detest boring, gross sex scenes. For a book that's advertised as erotica, I would have at least like to have enjoyed the sex scenes!
I usually pass books on to friends after reading them, but I don't even want to subject this book on any of them. The ONLY redeeming quality for this book is the cover. Do yourselves a favor and save the picture off the net.
March 4, 2012
I thought about giving this book one star, but settled on two because I think my expectations were too high and I was being unfair. I've read other works by this author and enjoyed them. I really admire how she takes a genre like romance/erotica and builds these elaborate worlds that are so unique and well thought out. I generally have lower expectations for romance novels as far as plot goes they can be pretty formulaic, not that that is necessarily bad right? Sometimes it's nice to pick up a book knowing in advance it's totally going to have a happy ending and the main characters are going to get together. The thing I've enjoyed in the past about Franks other works is the novels could have no sex and the main character romance could be way toned down and I'd still enjoy the plot and the world building. So my expectations were high. Maybe that's why she wrote this one under another name? I just felt like (and some other reviewers said this too) she combined sci-fi with paranormal in a way that was just too much for one book.It just overcomplicated the plot and made the flow of the story awkward. The world it was set in wasn't fleshed out in a way that made sense to me either. I mean they were infertile so they started bringing in slaves to procreate? In a society that clearly places a high value on aristocratic bloodlines I can't see that those born from unions with slaves would be seen as equals with those who weren't. And this is a society that has access to space travel and people on other planets, they wouldn't seek out unions with wealthy high class individuals on other planets rather than importing slaves? One costs them money the other could potentially enrich them. I think for me it was either just too much or not enough. Either the world and situation should just be the backdrop for some kinky bondage erotica or things should have been more fleshed out. As it was it just wasn't satisfying and honestly the pacing was a little off too.
October 13, 2010
In a galaxy far, far away - suspenseful and erotic paranormal romance.
Vejhon, a colonel fighting invaders on his home planet, is ensnared by the enemy and sold to slave traders who take him to the other side of the galaxy. He ends up in a distant land where a feudal system rules and slavery is a way of life. Slaves are abused using technology and drugs. The bid for Vejhon is won by Najir, another slave who pays the highest amount ever paid for a slave in behalf of his mistress, Hanna Drakoulous. Najir buys Vejhon right before he gets sold to the evil Baron Majum, whose sadistic treatment nobody survives. This reignites the bloody feud going on between the Drakoulous and Majum houses for generations. Both Hanna Drakoulous and Baron Majum are the masters of their own houses and hold a seat at the legislature running the country. Baron Majum’s atrocities are suspected by his peers although they ignore his vicious nature. I hate him throughout the book, an unforgettable villain without doubt.
Hanna and Najir have plans for Vejhon, which from the start aren’t the traditional roles slaves perform in this state. Vejhon refuses to submit to his new way of life, and Hanna has to prove the benefits of being bought by her and his current reality. Slowly Hanna reveals she is more than a beautiful female whose blue skin is only the start. Later he will learn that even her sex is different from anything known to him.
Please note the words 'later' and 'sex' together in the previous sentence. It’s important in this book. Most erotic romances I’ve read include early sexual encounters between the main couple. Some even in the first chapter. In The Bid, there is no sexual intercourse between them until the second half of the book. There is explicit nudity on the first pages, and in the third chapter the sexual explicitness begins, but the author takes her time developing the characters, and the exotic world they inhabit. Which I appreciate. In their situation, it would have been awkward for Vejhon and Hanna to begin having wild sex from the first chapters. When they finally do it, it’s more like making love. The sex is very detailed and that’s why the book is shelved in erotic romance, but it’s not as frequent and gratuitous as we are used to with this sub-genre.
The beautiful cover isn’t totally accurate. The artist did a wonderful job, the characters are drawn nicely, but my guess it’s the book wasn’t read before it was painted. It portrays three main characters when in reality there are only two. These characters are Hanna, the heroine, Vejhon, the hero, and Najir, who are not, as the cover suggests, equal partners in the romance. There is no menage, there is not even a love triangle on the page at any time. Najir venerates Hanna, his master, and has an important secondary role in the story, nearly as important as Baron Majum, who is described as handsome too, luckily, he is not on the cover. Vejhon is 100% alpha, even as a slave, he shows his alpha attitude all the way. And Hanna would never allow this worshipped pose which, by the way, never happens during the narrative.
I wish I could tell you more without destroying the great efforts JAX took to keep the suspenseful plot going. I will not include spoilers because it was really exciting for me to keep turning pages trying to figure out the secrets Hanna and Najir are hiding. JAX brilliantly handles the suspense. I read The Bid past midnight, looking at the clock and thinking I should stop, because I must wake up early, but I had to read another page, or at least until I knew about the mystery of Hanna and Najir’s true plans for Vejhon.
The mystery is revealed by the second half of the book, and from there it is an action roller coaster until the last page. It’s full of details, which are welcome, to really engage the reader in the characters’ lives and struggles.
The Bid is an entertaining page turner, but it’s not an easy read as most erotic romance books usually are. JAX’s efforts to show this fantastic and distant world and its inhabitants pay off. The story is a sci fi action thriller with elements of urban fantasy. The paranormal is present in the form of shapeshifters. And I have a hunch it's the first of a series. I will be looking forward to more books from JAX. The words 'in a galaxy far, far away' just took on a new meaning.
Vejhon, a colonel fighting invaders on his home planet, is ensnared by the enemy and sold to slave traders who take him to the other side of the galaxy. He ends up in a distant land where a feudal system rules and slavery is a way of life. Slaves are abused using technology and drugs. The bid for Vejhon is won by Najir, another slave who pays the highest amount ever paid for a slave in behalf of his mistress, Hanna Drakoulous. Najir buys Vejhon right before he gets sold to the evil Baron Majum, whose sadistic treatment nobody survives. This reignites the bloody feud going on between the Drakoulous and Majum houses for generations. Both Hanna Drakoulous and Baron Majum are the masters of their own houses and hold a seat at the legislature running the country. Baron Majum’s atrocities are suspected by his peers although they ignore his vicious nature. I hate him throughout the book, an unforgettable villain without doubt.
Hanna and Najir have plans for Vejhon, which from the start aren’t the traditional roles slaves perform in this state. Vejhon refuses to submit to his new way of life, and Hanna has to prove the benefits of being bought by her and his current reality. Slowly Hanna reveals she is more than a beautiful female whose blue skin is only the start. Later he will learn that even her sex is different from anything known to him.
Please note the words 'later' and 'sex' together in the previous sentence. It’s important in this book. Most erotic romances I’ve read include early sexual encounters between the main couple. Some even in the first chapter. In The Bid, there is no sexual intercourse between them until the second half of the book. There is explicit nudity on the first pages, and in the third chapter the sexual explicitness begins, but the author takes her time developing the characters, and the exotic world they inhabit. Which I appreciate. In their situation, it would have been awkward for Vejhon and Hanna to begin having wild sex from the first chapters. When they finally do it, it’s more like making love. The sex is very detailed and that’s why the book is shelved in erotic romance, but it’s not as frequent and gratuitous as we are used to with this sub-genre.
The beautiful cover isn’t totally accurate. The artist did a wonderful job, the characters are drawn nicely, but my guess it’s the book wasn’t read before it was painted. It portrays three main characters when in reality there are only two. These characters are Hanna, the heroine, Vejhon, the hero, and Najir, who are not, as the cover suggests, equal partners in the romance. There is no menage, there is not even a love triangle on the page at any time. Najir venerates Hanna, his master, and has an important secondary role in the story, nearly as important as Baron Majum, who is described as handsome too, luckily, he is not on the cover. Vejhon is 100% alpha, even as a slave, he shows his alpha attitude all the way. And Hanna would never allow this worshipped pose which, by the way, never happens during the narrative.
I wish I could tell you more without destroying the great efforts JAX took to keep the suspenseful plot going. I will not include spoilers because it was really exciting for me to keep turning pages trying to figure out the secrets Hanna and Najir are hiding. JAX brilliantly handles the suspense. I read The Bid past midnight, looking at the clock and thinking I should stop, because I must wake up early, but I had to read another page, or at least until I knew about the mystery of Hanna and Najir’s true plans for Vejhon.
The mystery is revealed by the second half of the book, and from there it is an action roller coaster until the last page. It’s full of details, which are welcome, to really engage the reader in the characters’ lives and struggles.
The Bid is an entertaining page turner, but it’s not an easy read as most erotic romance books usually are. JAX’s efforts to show this fantastic and distant world and its inhabitants pay off. The story is a sci fi action thriller with elements of urban fantasy. The paranormal is present in the form of shapeshifters. And I have a hunch it's the first of a series. I will be looking forward to more books from JAX. The words 'in a galaxy far, far away' just took on a new meaning.
October 12, 2014
This book crossed my path due to a person in one of my groups picking it for a challenge. I will admit the cover drew me. We have this pretty woman who is blue with a couple of viking like guys at her feet, what's not to love about that. I expected this book to be a menage type book, but it wasn't at all, I liked it, but it just wasn't what I expected. I am not sure what I would characterize this but there are aspects of sci-fi, shifter, and just plain romance with the exotic setting with lots of political aspects left and right.
One of the best things about this book is the world it is set in. While there is quite a bit of world building it doesn't over power the story. It is the world itself that sets up the story. Slavery is prevalent on this world and this is what brings all of our characters together, but things aren't always what they seem. It seems like there is secret after secret with all the characters, and just when it seems like you know them all a new one comes out.
The relationships in the book are a complex one. You have the one in love, but it isn't returned, the one who feels betrayed, the one who is jealous, and the one who all the hope of the future is set on.
I would love to see more books set in this world.
One of the best things about this book is the world it is set in. While there is quite a bit of world building it doesn't over power the story. It is the world itself that sets up the story. Slavery is prevalent on this world and this is what brings all of our characters together, but things aren't always what they seem. It seems like there is secret after secret with all the characters, and just when it seems like you know them all a new one comes out.
The relationships in the book are a complex one. You have the one in love, but it isn't returned, the one who feels betrayed, the one who is jealous, and the one who all the hope of the future is set on.
I would love to see more books set in this world.
March 15, 2015
Not for the Faint of Heart - The Bid by Jax Review
This review brought to you by alcohol, as are all of my Not for the Faint of Heart reviews. Today it's a white Russian. So yeah, onward!
This is actually the first erotic novel that I've read. And it was definitely an experience. I've read erotic short stories, and even erotic collections of shorts stories, some with shared universes, but this was the first long-form work I've read. It probably helps that I'm a fan of science fiction and this one does have an interesting mix of things going on with it. Taking place on an alien world, it features a woman trying to change her world so that slavery can be less an issue. At the moment, she's the ruler of a house that is pushing for change but has a difficult journey to get people to listen to her. She does, however, have a plan. One that requires a specific kind of person in order for it to succeed.
Enter Vejhon. I'll admit, neither of the guy characters in this book really did all that much for me. their both muscled and warrior-esque, both a bit pouting and definitely jealous and alpha-male and it's just not exactly my cup of tea. Not that they're poorly done, just that I thought that the two of them being there might mean their relationship would be a bit...not what it is. They are both unflinchingly straight and that was perhaps part of the issue I had with this book, it's focus on the straight relationship. Really the only non-hetero acts are made by the villain of the book, and are rapes. So...not such a fan of that. Also, most of the hetero-acts have to be brought under the procreative sex umbrella for story reasons. Which I also find rather disappointing, because then even the sex can't really be wholly sex-positive because they require that other aspect to them.
However. The story isn't terribly done. Yes, there might be a weird lack of diversity (sexually and otherwise), but the characters are all right and the sex is well described and mostly fun and I did find myself reading right along wanting to know what would happen next. Also, it brings in some shifters into the sci fi setting which I thought was neat and aside from the previously mentioned procreative problems I thought it was rather cool and interesting. Not that it always made the most amount of sense but it did keep things moving along and it made for the confrontation at the end to be quite more dramatic. Indeed.
And in the end, it's a passable storyline with some good sex. I had my issues with it, but it's still a science fiction erotica and I'm starved enough for those that I'm willing to be a bit more lenient than I would be with other things. It's not really what I was hoping for, falling much more in line with what I've seen from paranormal romances as far as diversity and story, but it's still worth reading for fans of the genre and style. A 6.25/10.
This review brought to you by alcohol, as are all of my Not for the Faint of Heart reviews. Today it's a white Russian. So yeah, onward!
This is actually the first erotic novel that I've read. And it was definitely an experience. I've read erotic short stories, and even erotic collections of shorts stories, some with shared universes, but this was the first long-form work I've read. It probably helps that I'm a fan of science fiction and this one does have an interesting mix of things going on with it. Taking place on an alien world, it features a woman trying to change her world so that slavery can be less an issue. At the moment, she's the ruler of a house that is pushing for change but has a difficult journey to get people to listen to her. She does, however, have a plan. One that requires a specific kind of person in order for it to succeed.
Enter Vejhon. I'll admit, neither of the guy characters in this book really did all that much for me. their both muscled and warrior-esque, both a bit pouting and definitely jealous and alpha-male and it's just not exactly my cup of tea. Not that they're poorly done, just that I thought that the two of them being there might mean their relationship would be a bit...not what it is. They are both unflinchingly straight and that was perhaps part of the issue I had with this book, it's focus on the straight relationship. Really the only non-hetero acts are made by the villain of the book, and are rapes. So...not such a fan of that. Also, most of the hetero-acts have to be brought under the procreative sex umbrella for story reasons. Which I also find rather disappointing, because then even the sex can't really be wholly sex-positive because they require that other aspect to them.
However. The story isn't terribly done. Yes, there might be a weird lack of diversity (sexually and otherwise), but the characters are all right and the sex is well described and mostly fun and I did find myself reading right along wanting to know what would happen next. Also, it brings in some shifters into the sci fi setting which I thought was neat and aside from the previously mentioned procreative problems I thought it was rather cool and interesting. Not that it always made the most amount of sense but it did keep things moving along and it made for the confrontation at the end to be quite more dramatic. Indeed.
And in the end, it's a passable storyline with some good sex. I had my issues with it, but it's still a science fiction erotica and I'm starved enough for those that I'm willing to be a bit more lenient than I would be with other things. It's not really what I was hoping for, falling much more in line with what I've seen from paranormal romances as far as diversity and story, but it's still worth reading for fans of the genre and style. A 6.25/10.
April 6, 2012
JAX (aka Jacquelyn Frank) in her new book The Bid steps away from her usual paranormal romance to enter, quite gently, the world of erotica. As the author of The Nightwalkers, The Shadowdwellers and The Gatherers series says herself, the novels published under her second pen name are reserved for her somewhat more daring and slightly wilder ventures.
I’ve started reading The Bid with a bit of hesitation, since as a sci-fi fan I couldn’t quite trust a paranormal romance author to get it just right. And I must say that I was pleasantly surprised. The world JAX creates in
certain aspects will remind you of the Ancient Rome with the cut-throat politics, plots and schemes, flowy gowns and beautiful slaves from far reaches of the galaxy (instead of Empire) bought for their looks and sexual virility. In the same time we have space travels, shape-shifters and different dimensions. In other words – a very rich and intriguing universe. As with most Frank’s other books, the plot is gripping, the storyline well constructed, the sex beautifully described even though a bit less steamy than expected. On that note, I believe that Frank is the only paranormal author who I re-read for her beautifully constructed story-line and lovely language and not to get off reading saucy, sexual encounters… (cough, cough).
The novel, however, is not free from short-comings. The first disappointment was the tamed tone of sexual encounters, which after reading the excerpt and the comment from the author herself, I was expecting to be slightly more saucy. However, please remember dear Reader that I was reading the book after The Story of O., which most probably offset my take on the intensity of sexual encounters. The second, though only slight, disappointment was the main character, a beautiful, blue-skinned Hannah, who combines innocence with sexual awareness, and her masterly grasp on her world’s political scene, are just sometimes difficult to fit one person. Also, what I found hard to believe was her hold on the two Conan-type warrior slaves who she manages to enthral almost instantly. Would a man who was plucked away from his home world, from the middle of a rebellion, which he devoted all his life and devotion, be so quick to trust an alien beauty?
But I suppose some that some allowance have to be made and, taking into account all pros and cons, the book is in the end a very enjoyable read which will keep you up and reading until the very last page. Which, I believe, is most important.
I’ve started reading The Bid with a bit of hesitation, since as a sci-fi fan I couldn’t quite trust a paranormal romance author to get it just right. And I must say that I was pleasantly surprised. The world JAX creates in
certain aspects will remind you of the Ancient Rome with the cut-throat politics, plots and schemes, flowy gowns and beautiful slaves from far reaches of the galaxy (instead of Empire) bought for their looks and sexual virility. In the same time we have space travels, shape-shifters and different dimensions. In other words – a very rich and intriguing universe. As with most Frank’s other books, the plot is gripping, the storyline well constructed, the sex beautifully described even though a bit less steamy than expected. On that note, I believe that Frank is the only paranormal author who I re-read for her beautifully constructed story-line and lovely language and not to get off reading saucy, sexual encounters… (cough, cough).
The novel, however, is not free from short-comings. The first disappointment was the tamed tone of sexual encounters, which after reading the excerpt and the comment from the author herself, I was expecting to be slightly more saucy. However, please remember dear Reader that I was reading the book after The Story of O., which most probably offset my take on the intensity of sexual encounters. The second, though only slight, disappointment was the main character, a beautiful, blue-skinned Hannah, who combines innocence with sexual awareness, and her masterly grasp on her world’s political scene, are just sometimes difficult to fit one person. Also, what I found hard to believe was her hold on the two Conan-type warrior slaves who she manages to enthral almost instantly. Would a man who was plucked away from his home world, from the middle of a rebellion, which he devoted all his life and devotion, be so quick to trust an alien beauty?
But I suppose some that some allowance have to be made and, taking into account all pros and cons, the book is in the end a very enjoyable read which will keep you up and reading until the very last page. Which, I believe, is most important.
January 28, 2011
JAX (aka Jacquelyn Frank) has created a very interesting world in ‘The Bid’. This is primarily a sci-fi romance, with some erotic and paranormal elements. The sex is hot, tasteful and intense, and the emotions ring true. I really felt Najir’s love for Hanna. I also felt some frustration with the rules of the society in this book where slavery is a huge part of their economy and culture, but so did the main characters of the book, which is as it should be.
There is a very big secret in this book, and I won’t ruin it by giving any spoilers. I just wanted to mention that the build up of suspense is very well done, and I was turning pages as fast as I could to learn what the secret was.
I have to admit I’m not usually a big fan of sci-fi romances, so that probably affects my overall rating of the book. However, of the books in that sub-genre that I’ve read, this was a pretty good one.
What I liked: hot sex scenes, action that kept things moving and was pertinent to the story, a heroine who was strong, intelligent and likeable, and a killer surprise.
What I didn’t like: a rather weak villain (though his weakness showcased the heroine’s strength nicely), the love triangle (I felt terrible for Najir), and some things that felt like they weren’t really fleshed out.
Despite the fact that I wouldn’t list this in my top favorite books, it was still a good read and I’d be interested to see if this turns into a series, especially if Najir gets his own book and the happy ending he deserves.
Note: I received a free copy of this book as part of a First Reads giveaway on Goodreads, but that did not influence my rating or review. Free is always appreciated, but I was notified of the win at the end of October and didn't get the book until mid-January.
There is a very big secret in this book, and I won’t ruin it by giving any spoilers. I just wanted to mention that the build up of suspense is very well done, and I was turning pages as fast as I could to learn what the secret was.
I have to admit I’m not usually a big fan of sci-fi romances, so that probably affects my overall rating of the book. However, of the books in that sub-genre that I’ve read, this was a pretty good one.
What I liked: hot sex scenes, action that kept things moving and was pertinent to the story, a heroine who was strong, intelligent and likeable, and a killer surprise.
What I didn’t like: a rather weak villain (though his weakness showcased the heroine’s strength nicely), the love triangle (I felt terrible for Najir), and some things that felt like they weren’t really fleshed out.
Despite the fact that I wouldn’t list this in my top favorite books, it was still a good read and I’d be interested to see if this turns into a series, especially if Najir gets his own book and the happy ending he deserves.
Note: I received a free copy of this book as part of a First Reads giveaway on Goodreads, but that did not influence my rating or review. Free is always appreciated, but I was notified of the win at the end of October and didn't get the book until mid-January.
July 28, 2011
Absolutely one of the most horrid books I have ever read. First, I admit that I bought the book due to the cover. After beginning to read the book, I began realizing that this was a book I probably should set aside as it lacked any real appeal. Not long into the story, we are introduced to one of the main protagonists, Jhon. It did not take long for the author to show us this was a blatantly homophobic individual. I thought perhaps by the end of the story, this issue would be addressed and the character would evolve. Sadly, the issue was never addressed again. It made Jhon a non-redeemable character in my eyes.
November 14, 2010
Wasn't impressed with this story. I couldn't get past some of the descriptive words used during and for sex. Once I read "kitty" I was pretty much turned off and tuned out. It seemed incredibly juvenile in the midst of such hot scenes. Bleh.
December 27, 2010
I loved this ending!!!! I want to be a sexy blue vixen!! That turns into a bellcat, with 2 sexy men at my side. YUM! lol
March 18, 2013
It's a bit silly and NOT what I expected from Jacqueline Frank. I guess i was expecting something quirky and funny like her other alien series. I won't be looking for more titles by this pen name.
May 27, 2017
I don't read erotic novels or romances generally. The characters are well constructed. The story is very interesting. The author has a good grasp of power dynamics, dominance and submission.
The erotic scenes are well executed.
But, really, the story was so good I grew tired of it being interrupted with the throes of passion.
The romance was tertiary and took a back seat.
The erotic scenes are well executed.
But, really, the story was so good I grew tired of it being interrupted with the throes of passion.
The romance was tertiary and took a back seat.
April 6, 2019
I agree with one reviewer that the cover was a bit misleading, but overall I just wasn’t into this. Too much fantasy and long sections of background stories.
October 18, 2025
I liked the idea of a male slave. Often it is the opposite, in books and real life. Females are the ones in the position of suppression.
I saw some reviews about the resistance to wanting a male master from Jhon. I didn't agree it was homophobic. I think he had a preference for women, so it would be natural to not like the idea of a sexual relationship with someone of the opposite sex. That didn't mean he had a problem with those who had a different preference.
I saw some reviews about the resistance to wanting a male master from Jhon. I didn't agree it was homophobic. I think he had a preference for women, so it would be natural to not like the idea of a sexual relationship with someone of the opposite sex. That didn't mean he had a problem with those who had a different preference.
February 24, 2015
This book was very different from many of the books I've read. The primes of this book was about slavery. I loved this book in many ways and chilled by many others. It's worth reading, not just for the steamy parts but for the harsh ones as well.
This book begins with a male slave being strapped and chained to a block for auction. He's the most exotic and beautiful naked flesh to ever be seen. The noble men and women start a bidding frenzy that finally ends when, Najir, a slave from the house of Drakoulous makes a bid so high that no one can counter. It's luck that seems to have been pushed by fate that Najir happen to have attended this auction for his master, Lady Hanna. This new slave looks very much like himself, platinum hair, muscles that show how fit he is and most importantly green eyes like a cat. Najir believes he's found what his master has been looking for, he finds slave Vejhon. He offers a price so high that no one else can outbid. He purchases him right under one of their most hated rivals.
Najir purchases Vejhon and the new slave is delivered Lady Drakoulous, only it's not for what he believes. It takes her only a few days to convince him that in her home he is equal. She proves in many ways and soon he realizes that his fate could have been much worse.
The spin in this story is that she gives him many choices without truly informing him of his options. He's free up to a point and only in private like a dirty secret. Case in point is when he accepts that she holds his fate only to walk into an animal enclosure and be mulled by her pets, which turns out, are her family. He comes to find out after he survives that the master of the house descends from a bell-cat shape-shifter extinct species whom only the first born from any litter can change back and fourth. The second in the litter can be released and change freely only when the first born finds their true mate and bond while in bell-cat form.
Lucky for Vejhon he seems to be the masters mate. Unfortunately he cannot live a half life where in private they can show their love and be with one another and in public where he must walk behind her and be silent. It's a harsh lesson on what love truly is.
She must make a stand and try to push forward new laws to abolish the slavery that has become the norm.
Their's more than this in the story. It includes a fierce war between two houses, The House of Drakoulous and Baron Majum from The House of Majum. The Baron, a sick rapist who enjoys raping young boys and the Baron's Majum second in command who enjoy's rapping girls younger than 13. The Baron is also responsible for murdering Lady Drakoulous's parents and because of a current law she's been unable to seek justice or revenge.
Like I said this book was fabulous on many fronts and I'm already looking into some other books by Jax.....
This book begins with a male slave being strapped and chained to a block for auction. He's the most exotic and beautiful naked flesh to ever be seen. The noble men and women start a bidding frenzy that finally ends when, Najir, a slave from the house of Drakoulous makes a bid so high that no one can counter. It's luck that seems to have been pushed by fate that Najir happen to have attended this auction for his master, Lady Hanna. This new slave looks very much like himself, platinum hair, muscles that show how fit he is and most importantly green eyes like a cat. Najir believes he's found what his master has been looking for, he finds slave Vejhon. He offers a price so high that no one else can outbid. He purchases him right under one of their most hated rivals.
Najir purchases Vejhon and the new slave is delivered Lady Drakoulous, only it's not for what he believes. It takes her only a few days to convince him that in her home he is equal. She proves in many ways and soon he realizes that his fate could have been much worse.
The spin in this story is that she gives him many choices without truly informing him of his options. He's free up to a point and only in private like a dirty secret. Case in point is when he accepts that she holds his fate only to walk into an animal enclosure and be mulled by her pets, which turns out, are her family. He comes to find out after he survives that the master of the house descends from a bell-cat shape-shifter extinct species whom only the first born from any litter can change back and fourth. The second in the litter can be released and change freely only when the first born finds their true mate and bond while in bell-cat form.
Lucky for Vejhon he seems to be the masters mate. Unfortunately he cannot live a half life where in private they can show their love and be with one another and in public where he must walk behind her and be silent. It's a harsh lesson on what love truly is.
She must make a stand and try to push forward new laws to abolish the slavery that has become the norm.
Their's more than this in the story. It includes a fierce war between two houses, The House of Drakoulous and Baron Majum from The House of Majum. The Baron, a sick rapist who enjoys raping young boys and the Baron's Majum second in command who enjoy's rapping girls younger than 13. The Baron is also responsible for murdering Lady Drakoulous's parents and because of a current law she's been unable to seek justice or revenge.
Like I said this book was fabulous on many fronts and I'm already looking into some other books by Jax.....
November 12, 2013
I have to say I'm shocked that I'm writing a negative book on a Frank book. I always refer to goodreads before buying books. Franks'books have always been a go to no matter whats . This storyline completely fell apart. I liked VehJohn, but Hanna has to be one of the worst heroines in print. The world building was incomplete to say the least. What really made want to throw the book in the trash was trying to get through the "walk through this door,and there's no going back" scene. When we as readers finally come out of the confusing fog of trying to figure out what is happening,to be rushed into one of the most unbelievable sex scenes . I was just stunned, I had to force myself to struggle through this book. I always buy J Franks books, I have every one she has ever written and I love them. I reread them every year after I buy them, so when I tell you not only will I never read this again,I want you to understand why I was reluctant to donate this crap to my local library. This is not Erotica by a long shot, VehJohn ,who comes off as extremely intelligent and cunning, in the beginning suddenly becomes so engrossed, in lust/love that he just stops what should be matter of fact thinking. The heroine, Hanna is just a master of manipulations and the love match, the connection is totally unconvincing throughout this entire experience. I would never recommend this book!!
July 30, 2012
I wasn't sure exactly what to expect. I was curious about Jacquelyn Franks' alter ego JAX. The story opens with a slave auction. A warrior/soldier is sold to a master of one of the great houses of this isolated city. There is obviously lots of contention between the two bidding factions. He has been held in stassis off and on for many months and is many worlds away from his home planet. Vejhon, the soldier, awakens to restraints and slavery.
Hanna, Master of House Drakoulous, is the head of her "High House " and a member of the governing council. A position achieved by the death of her parents. Her ideas about slavery are very different than the rest of her council members and city in general.
This is a story of trust, loyalty, and challenge. I didn't feel that the storyline was overly complicated. Yet, it surprised me a couple of times. JAX is supposed to be the more erotic side of Frank and I didn't feel that was more graphic than I've read by most PNR writers. The story lends itself to a series possibility and I would definitely read more. I give this a 3 1/2-4 * rating. As per usual the first book in a series is a lot of world building and a fair amount of loose ends.
Hanna, Master of House Drakoulous, is the head of her "High House " and a member of the governing council. A position achieved by the death of her parents. Her ideas about slavery are very different than the rest of her council members and city in general.
This is a story of trust, loyalty, and challenge. I didn't feel that the storyline was overly complicated. Yet, it surprised me a couple of times. JAX is supposed to be the more erotic side of Frank and I didn't feel that was more graphic than I've read by most PNR writers. The story lends itself to a series possibility and I would definitely read more. I give this a 3 1/2-4 * rating. As per usual the first book in a series is a lot of world building and a fair amount of loose ends.
November 28, 2013
"The Bid" by JAX (aka Jacquelyn Frank). A sci-fi romance novel.
Do not let the cover of this book fool you! The cover is suggestive of an erotic threesom but there is NONE of that in this book. It is actually a really good sci-fi romance in an alien society. All the aliens look like humans with the exception of having blue skin. I'm not usually a sci-fi reader so this genre was new for me, but when you're reading I didn't find it really had a lot of focus on the "alien" aspects, it was more about the society and the characters interacting with each other.
The concept of the storyline is quite interesting; this alien society relies heavily on slave trade of other alien races. So beside the romantic storyline there is the theme of slavery and how it affects society. The two main characters, Hanna and Vejhon, come together under horrible circumstances in which Vejhon is purchased as a slave for Hanna. But Hanna has a completely different motive for purchasing Vejhon which actually has nothing to do with keeping him as a slave. The villain in this story, Baron Majum, is so vile you want to take him out yourself.
All this joined together and a cool plot twist makes this a really good book. I really enjoyed reading it. Give it a try, you just may like it.
Do not let the cover of this book fool you! The cover is suggestive of an erotic threesom but there is NONE of that in this book. It is actually a really good sci-fi romance in an alien society. All the aliens look like humans with the exception of having blue skin. I'm not usually a sci-fi reader so this genre was new for me, but when you're reading I didn't find it really had a lot of focus on the "alien" aspects, it was more about the society and the characters interacting with each other.
The concept of the storyline is quite interesting; this alien society relies heavily on slave trade of other alien races. So beside the romantic storyline there is the theme of slavery and how it affects society. The two main characters, Hanna and Vejhon, come together under horrible circumstances in which Vejhon is purchased as a slave for Hanna. But Hanna has a completely different motive for purchasing Vejhon which actually has nothing to do with keeping him as a slave. The villain in this story, Baron Majum, is so vile you want to take him out yourself.
All this joined together and a cool plot twist makes this a really good book. I really enjoyed reading it. Give it a try, you just may like it.
December 29, 2010
Fabulous read! The writing is smooth and the story flows well. It is a bit mysterious and I don't want to spoil things for the reader, but the cover and description are a little misleading. There is no menage or BDSM (as I thought there would be with a woman having two male slaves kneeling at her feet). The book starts out a bit mysteriously, because Hanna has her secrets, and she guards them well. As things are revealed the reader as well as the hero Jhon are thrust into a world of beauty and danger. The twists and turns keep things interesting and the reader wanting more. The relationship between Hanna and Jhon is sensual and intense, and very well written. Hopefully, there will be a sequel. I'd gush a little more, but finding things out as Jhon does is part of the fun. You know a book is good when you read until 4 in the morning when you have to be up by 8 am and you end up with book hangover the next couple of days because the only time you have to read is late at night...sleep or book....sleep or book...and book wins. ;)
I read the Kindle version and there were just over 4500 locations.
I read the Kindle version and there were just over 4500 locations.
December 24, 2010
This was supposed to be an Erotica novel set in a very sci-fi setting. It was only PG17 on the rating of Erotica. The reason for the PG17 rating is for the animal aspect of the story. I won't explain, because I don't want to give any spoilers away. I have read much, much hotter before, but not to say that it is a boring book though. I was confused for the first half of the book, not really sure what the "big secret" was and feeling very lost in this new world, much as Vejhon was. JAX (aka Jacquelyn Frank) has quite the imagination. If you have read any of her other books, you will know that she can create worlds that defy description. This world is no different, I believe this is her first attempt at Erotica and it was a little tame for me, but the dynamic between the main characters was very interesting. This book does have a story, and characters that are somewhat complex and intriguing. I can't say this is a keeper for me, but I would be wiling to read future books in this story line.
July 9, 2015
An entertaining story about Hannah, the Master of the Drakoulous House, who is on the hunt for her mate, a mate she has to find from an alien from another world, and the only way to do that is through buying a slave. She finds what she needs in Vejhon, but he is a powerful warrior who was kidnapped from his planet and he chafes at being reduced to the status of slave. The story focuses on their growing relationship, the building of trust, and the fighting for the right to be free in a slave driven economy. I found the futuristic sci-fi setting was a refreshing change from my usual paranormal and historical setting. Vejhon was a strong male character and I liked him as the male lead. The way the story ends was perfect and entertaining. If you like Jacquelyn Frank's Nightwalker series, then I recommend this one to try out. It is a stand-alone which makes it easy to pick up and read, though by the end of the book, I found myself wishing that it was part of a series.
April 25, 2011
This was a great read by Jax (aka Jacquelyn Frank). You get the same incredible world building that we are all used to from Frank but with some extra spice!!
The book started off very strong for me and I just could not put it down but about three quarters of the way through, it kind of slowed down a bit. Plus, there were a couple of mistakes that I believe should have been caught by the editors (ie a character taking is shirt off when he had already taken it off a couple paragraphs before that, etc.) and that bugged me a little. If it weren't for the fact the the last part of the book was not as solid as the first and all of the errors I encounter, I would have rated this a 4 star read.
All in all though, this was an awesome read. I cannot wait to see what other books Jax has coming our way in the future!
The book started off very strong for me and I just could not put it down but about three quarters of the way through, it kind of slowed down a bit. Plus, there were a couple of mistakes that I believe should have been caught by the editors (ie a character taking is shirt off when he had already taken it off a couple paragraphs before that, etc.) and that bugged me a little. If it weren't for the fact the the last part of the book was not as solid as the first and all of the errors I encounter, I would have rated this a 4 star read.
All in all though, this was an awesome read. I cannot wait to see what other books Jax has coming our way in the future!
February 23, 2011
This book was a real surprise from Jacquelyn Frank. I expected a M/M/F erotic tale and it was far from that. It was definitely erotic and the sex scenes were fantastically done. The stunner was Vejhon, the slave brought into the Drakulous household. He is a gorgeous man brought in, not to be a sex slave (or any slave for that matter) but to help Hanna with a secret quest to free her family from a wicked curse. I didn't know this was Jacquelyn Frank's writing until the very last page was turned. I enjoy her Nightwalker series and would have picked this up if I'd known it was hers. However, her name wasn't even required, I saw the blue lady and the gorgeous men on the cover and snapped it up. I surely wasn't disappointed.
May 6, 2015
The Bid was a really great book. I enjoy all of Jacquelyn Franks books and the same goes for her more erotic series under the pen name Jax. The Alien world building was so cool. lol I sound like a teenager.. I am a Homeschool Teacher and Mother of two wonderful little girls. However I really enjoy to travel the universe, hang out with aliens, fall in love with a shapeshifter or be hunted by a vampire! :-) This is one novel I started to read and couldn't put it down.
This story is about a guy that was taken from his planet by force and taken to a planet and sold as a slave. He was lucky enough to be bought by a lady that was from a good house on this planet. Jax please write more books!!
This story is about a guy that was taken from his planet by force and taken to a planet and sold as a slave. He was lucky enough to be bought by a lady that was from a good house on this planet. Jax please write more books!!
October 27, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. There were some very "interesting interactions" between the hero and the heroine. There were also scenes that were hilarious and had me laughing out loud at something one of them had said or done. I think that is what was my favorite about the book, the sense of humor in it. The author is Jacquelyn Frank, and if you enjoy her other books I think you should give this one a try. I do hope she will be putting out more books under her other name sometime soon too, maybe a book about Najir;-)
October 29, 2013
As JAX, Jacquelyn Frank--the "New York Times"-bestselling author of the Nightwalkers and Shadowdwellers series--delivers a blisteringly hot erotic novel set in an exotic paranormal world.
Strapped and chained on the block, a masterpiece of naked flesh and muscle turns slowly, the eyes of the crowd devour the sight of Vejhon, whose platinum-white hair and cat-green eyes mark him as newly captured from a wild planet on the outer edges of space. The noble men and women erupt in a bidding frenzy that finally stops on a man named Najir.
Strapped and chained on the block, a masterpiece of naked flesh and muscle turns slowly, the eyes of the crowd devour the sight of Vejhon, whose platinum-white hair and cat-green eyes mark him as newly captured from a wild planet on the outer edges of space. The noble men and women erupt in a bidding frenzy that finally stops on a man named Najir.
September 28, 2015
Vejhon finds himself abducted from his planet, his war and the life he knows, and thrown into an auction, where everyone wants him.
The winner turns out to be a slave as well, and his new owner a blue skinned gorgeous woman. But this isn´t the life he wanted.
Hanna´s got more than her House to keep up appearance for, she´s got a big secret, where Vejhon will take a part in. If she can persuade him to do it..
PNR romance, smutty fluff and action in a great combo. From the cover I did think it would become a m/f/m story, but this is not one of those. (bummer) =)
The winner turns out to be a slave as well, and his new owner a blue skinned gorgeous woman. But this isn´t the life he wanted.
Hanna´s got more than her House to keep up appearance for, she´s got a big secret, where Vejhon will take a part in. If she can persuade him to do it..
PNR romance, smutty fluff and action in a great combo. From the cover I did think it would become a m/f/m story, but this is not one of those. (bummer) =)
February 18, 2016
Boo - for the misleading cover and book blurb. It sounded and looked hot - I was all geared up for some menage a trois fun/action. Instead I got some lame love story, monogamous no less, and when they have sex they turn shifters into people - yes, you read that right.
The book was well written - but barely erotica. If anything half way through the plot turns political and it becomes a bid for power.
I skim read about 50% of this book just to get to the end - which I didn't care about. So sad. What a waste of my time and money.
The book was well written - but barely erotica. If anything half way through the plot turns political and it becomes a bid for power.
I skim read about 50% of this book just to get to the end - which I didn't care about. So sad. What a waste of my time and money.
September 18, 2015
I wasn't sure what to expect from The Bid, but I enjoy Jacquelyn Frank and I've enjoyed her other books written as Jax. Of course, the cover pulled me in, however, the story was well written and once it picked up speed it was a nice ride. As far as erotica goes, it was well written and pretty descriptive without being over the top raunchy simply for shock value. It seems like there is so much more to be told about this world and its people, so I hope this is the beginning of more to come.
December 3, 2011
Picked this up for next to nothing when Borders was going out of business. Ok, I will admit the "explicit sex" tag did catch my eye. However, evidently their idea of explicit sex and mine are two different things. They haven't read any Laurel K Hamilton. But the story is acceptable and it was a decent read.
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