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Portals #1
Ethan's Freedom
A cat shifter from another world who has spent his entire life as a sex slave and an emotional battered male nurse, these two men couldn’t be more different or more perfect for each other, if only the past will leave them alone long enough to have a future.
Ethan is a wild, adventurous soul trapped in the life of a sex slave. For as long as he can remember he has been destined to be part of a harem dedicated to powering his master’s spell casting.
But Ethan has dreams. Dreams that won’t be denied. When a mysterious gift allows him the opportunity to escape, he grabs hold of it with both hands. But the realities of a life of freedom are nothing like what he had envisioned. Soon he is confused, hungry and running for his life.
Luck is with him, however, when he meets Michael Barnes. With the help of this warm, caring, emotionally bruised man, Ethan finally begins his journey to understanding the strange world and customs he has been thrust into and takes his first tentative steps to true freedom.
But there are those that would take back everything Ethan has gained. People that would like nothing more than to drag him back to his life as a harem slave.
Reader Advisory: This book contains a dubious consensual sex scene between minor characters. This book is the first book in a series that is best read in sequence.
Ethan is a wild, adventurous soul trapped in the life of a sex slave. For as long as he can remember he has been destined to be part of a harem dedicated to powering his master’s spell casting.
But Ethan has dreams. Dreams that won’t be denied. When a mysterious gift allows him the opportunity to escape, he grabs hold of it with both hands. But the realities of a life of freedom are nothing like what he had envisioned. Soon he is confused, hungry and running for his life.
Luck is with him, however, when he meets Michael Barnes. With the help of this warm, caring, emotionally bruised man, Ethan finally begins his journey to understanding the strange world and customs he has been thrust into and takes his first tentative steps to true freedom.
But there are those that would take back everything Ethan has gained. People that would like nothing more than to drag him back to his life as a harem slave.
Reader Advisory: This book contains a dubious consensual sex scene between minor characters. This book is the first book in a series that is best read in sequence.
109 pages, ebook
First published November 1, 2010
5 people are currently reading
425 people want to read
About the author
Jade Archer
24 books174 followersJade was born in 2010 after a prolonged pregnancy and labour of over thirty-four years!
Yes, she is a pseudonym. A work of my fevered imagination, which never seems to grow tired of inventing new characters. And this one's a whopper. One that seems to have taken over my life to the point I'm no longer sure where she ends and I begin! Still, it seems to be working for us.
I’ve decided she’s about twenty-four. Enjoys long walks in the country, because she doesn’t have five kids and a husband to care for. Eats as much chocolate as she wants, because she never has to worry about putting on weight (must be all those long walks!). And can often be found planning her next whirl wind world tour or endlessly typing away (without any interruptions) on another hot and steamy erotic romance. It might be space pirates; it might be shifters or a lonely vampire with a thing for the girl next door, one thing’s for sure, she loves variety and can’t wait to meet the next characters destined to fall in love.
Yes, she is a pseudonym. A work of my fevered imagination, which never seems to grow tired of inventing new characters. And this one's a whopper. One that seems to have taken over my life to the point I'm no longer sure where she ends and I begin! Still, it seems to be working for us.
I’ve decided she’s about twenty-four. Enjoys long walks in the country, because she doesn’t have five kids and a husband to care for. Eats as much chocolate as she wants, because she never has to worry about putting on weight (must be all those long walks!). And can often be found planning her next whirl wind world tour or endlessly typing away (without any interruptions) on another hot and steamy erotic romance. It might be space pirates; it might be shifters or a lonely vampire with a thing for the girl next door, one thing’s for sure, she loves variety and can’t wait to meet the next characters destined to fall in love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 22, 2010
The story was really good. The prologue really drew me in; I had goosebumps by the end of it. I really liked the twin’s relationship in the beginning, Devon was content to stay a slave and Ethan needed his freedom. I was conflicted between being glad for Ethan but feeling really bad for what happened to Devon because of Ethan escaping.
The first scene with Dev and the psycho cat in the ally was too much for me.
I do look forward to learning more about Dev in his story.
The first scene with Dev and the psycho cat in the ally was too much for me.
I do look forward to learning more about Dev in his story.
November 30, 2010
What a sexy kitty!
Ethan a cat shifter, and sex slave of magician, is tired of his boring (and abusive) life. His biggest dream is know the world, people, and most of all, be loved.
Michael the human of this story is a loser. Sorry, but true... the poor guy lost all his money being cheated by his ex and only by luck didn't lost also his house. He is lone (no boyfriend), without family (sad... so sad!), and is still shocked but his stupidity to trust someone that betrayed him
Why this two characters are perfect for each other is the fun of this book. You will see both POV, and will be, like me, mesmerized by their love.
If I can be totally honest this book has a huge problem: The rush.
I think the writer had an amazing idea, and did a great book, but this story could be a little more developed, and a lot is not explained. So little is tell about Ethan world! I miss that! I know he is the narrator, and being incarcerated all his live he too don't know a lot, but I miss it... I think (better I hope!) with more books of this serie more will be explained.
I can't wait to read about Ethan twin brother. Certainly he will have a lot to tell being the narrator.
So 5 stars, and I'll read more of this serie!
Ethan a cat shifter, and sex slave of magician, is tired of his boring (and abusive) life. His biggest dream is know the world, people, and most of all, be loved.
Michael the human of this story is a loser. Sorry, but true... the poor guy lost all his money being cheated by his ex and only by luck didn't lost also his house. He is lone (no boyfriend), without family (sad... so sad!), and is still shocked but his stupidity to trust someone that betrayed him
Why this two characters are perfect for each other is the fun of this book. You will see both POV, and will be, like me, mesmerized by their love.
If I can be totally honest this book has a huge problem: The rush.
I think the writer had an amazing idea, and did a great book, but this story could be a little more developed, and a lot is not explained. So little is tell about Ethan world! I miss that! I know he is the narrator, and being incarcerated all his live he too don't know a lot, but I miss it... I think (better I hope!) with more books of this serie more will be explained.
I can't wait to read about Ethan twin brother. Certainly he will have a lot to tell being the narrator.
So 5 stars, and I'll read more of this serie!
November 13, 2010
I really enjoyed reading this story about two men who seem so different, yet are more similar than I first thought. It was a delight to see Ethan and Michael meet, explore who they are and what they really want in a relationship, and figure out how much they need each other.
Ethan has been a sex slave his whole life, but he is so playful and curious once he escapes his former master, that I sometimes forgot where he came from. So did he. But when events remind him, he quickly reverts to his old self, and I really felt for him. The depth of understanding Jade Archer manages to convey, allowing me to feel what Ethan felt, kept me hooked.
Michael seems to be the stronger of the two, and physically, he is. His emotions have had a severe beating, though, so meeting the playful Ethan does him a world of good. I loved how open he was to accepting Ethan's differences, surprising even himself. His character is just as well developed as Ethan's, which made watching the two of them interact a joy.
This is a great start to a new series. The world building is only just starting, I feel, and there will hopefully be much more to discover in the next volumes. One of them will hopefully deal with Ethan's twin brother, who was in real trouble at the end of this book. I really look forward t the next installment!
Note: This book was provided by TEB for the purpose of a review.
Ethan has been a sex slave his whole life, but he is so playful and curious once he escapes his former master, that I sometimes forgot where he came from. So did he. But when events remind him, he quickly reverts to his old self, and I really felt for him. The depth of understanding Jade Archer manages to convey, allowing me to feel what Ethan felt, kept me hooked.
Michael seems to be the stronger of the two, and physically, he is. His emotions have had a severe beating, though, so meeting the playful Ethan does him a world of good. I loved how open he was to accepting Ethan's differences, surprising even himself. His character is just as well developed as Ethan's, which made watching the two of them interact a joy.
This is a great start to a new series. The world building is only just starting, I feel, and there will hopefully be much more to discover in the next volumes. One of them will hopefully deal with Ethan's twin brother, who was in real trouble at the end of this book. I really look forward t the next installment!
Note: This book was provided by TEB for the purpose of a review.
November 3, 2010
This was a pleasant read. A little too much sex for me, however others probably won’t think so. I found Ethan to be a curious person since he found everything he encountered on Earth to be new and unique. I found it funny when he would do things cat related while in human form like bat a hanging crystal. Michael was a good contrast to Ethan. He was the type of person who could tame Ethan but still keep him interested and free. Devon was my favorite character, though, even if he was a minor character, because I have a soft spot for abused kitties, and I can’t wait to read what’s in store for him.
I like the worlds’ Jade creates because they are both something you’ve read about but haven’t. I love Jade’s writing style and her use of cats (I’m a big cat shifter fan). I was a little sad at the end because of Devon but I’m glad he’ll get his own book (it’s currently a WIP but I’m hoping that’ll change soon :D) But I was satisfied with how Ethan was able to find his own place on earth with something he loved doing.
If you liked Jade Archer’s Contact series, even though these two series don’t have much in common, I think you’ll like the Portals series as well.
For spoilers go here.
I like the worlds’ Jade creates because they are both something you’ve read about but haven’t. I love Jade’s writing style and her use of cats (I’m a big cat shifter fan). I was a little sad at the end because of Devon but I’m glad he’ll get his own book (it’s currently a WIP but I’m hoping that’ll change soon :D) But I was satisfied with how Ethan was able to find his own place on earth with something he loved doing.
If you liked Jade Archer’s Contact series, even though these two series don’t have much in common, I think you’ll like the Portals series as well.
For spoilers go here.
May 27, 2011
I worship cats, I would build temples for them and be their priestess. The main character, Ethan, is a cat-shifter and in his world he is a sex slave. He has a twin, Devon, and they are used by a mage in order to enhance his magical power.
I liked that Ethan and Devon have both traits of the personality of a cat. Ethan is curious, affectionate and chooses who he wants as his master. Devon likes being cozy and protected in his home, he prefers tranquility and to keep his habits. The problem is that they have to be together in order to give their power to their mage Master, so when Ethan escapes from the mage's harem, Devon is sent to our world to retrieve his brother.
When Ethan arrives in our world, he meets Michael. Michael has been single for a long time, because his previous lover left him after having spent all his money in parties and drugs. In Ethan he finds a kind and sensual man who worships him. Ethan's signs of affection are truly feline, like purring and rubbing with his head against Michael. I liked when he melts from Michael stroking his ears.
The relationship between Michael and Ethan is very sweet and I liked seeing how Ethan lets his fears go and he begins to enjoy his new life, the world he is in. I thought the angst would come from this part of the story, but instead it's Devon's story that's sadder. When he arrives in our world, he is abused by the guard who is with him. I really felt bad for him, because I could understand that he felt abandoned by his brother, even if Ethan thought he would be left in peace in the mage's harem.
The end felt a little rushed and I felt the great world building didn't really paid off. I also felt that there was too much difference between the sweetness of Ethan's new love and the harshness of Devon's situation, that's why I can't give 5 stars. I'm looking forward to reading Dev's story.
I liked that Ethan and Devon have both traits of the personality of a cat. Ethan is curious, affectionate and chooses who he wants as his master. Devon likes being cozy and protected in his home, he prefers tranquility and to keep his habits. The problem is that they have to be together in order to give their power to their mage Master, so when Ethan escapes from the mage's harem, Devon is sent to our world to retrieve his brother.
When Ethan arrives in our world, he meets Michael. Michael has been single for a long time, because his previous lover left him after having spent all his money in parties and drugs. In Ethan he finds a kind and sensual man who worships him. Ethan's signs of affection are truly feline, like purring and rubbing with his head against Michael. I liked when he melts from Michael stroking his ears.
The relationship between Michael and Ethan is very sweet and I liked seeing how Ethan lets his fears go and he begins to enjoy his new life, the world he is in. I thought the angst would come from this part of the story, but instead it's Devon's story that's sadder. When he arrives in our world, he is abused by the guard who is with him. I really felt bad for him, because I could understand that he felt abandoned by his brother, even if Ethan thought he would be left in peace in the mage's harem.
The end felt a little rushed and I felt the great world building didn't really paid off. I also felt that there was too much difference between the sweetness of Ethan's new love and the harshness of Devon's situation, that's why I can't give 5 stars. I'm looking forward to reading Dev's story.
November 2, 2010
I really loved how sweet this book is. Ethan is so curious and playful. I loved it and laughed out loud when he was on earth and still did things like a cat. He is a great character. I think Michael is well suited for Ethan. He keeps him grounded and safe. I loved their pairing!!
Poor little Devon in this book!! He needs a HEA with everything he went through in this book. I can't wait to read the next book! I want to know what happens to him.
Cat shifters are my favorite shifters. I love a man who purrs!! This book is very different from Jade's other works. It is a little slow in the begining, but you can't put it down because the characters Jade creates make you care for them and you want to know if they are happy and taken care of.
Jade, you have created another fabulous series that I can't wait to see where it goes! You have become one of my favorite authors!
Poor little Devon in this book!! He needs a HEA with everything he went through in this book. I can't wait to read the next book! I want to know what happens to him.
Cat shifters are my favorite shifters. I love a man who purrs!! This book is very different from Jade's other works. It is a little slow in the begining, but you can't put it down because the characters Jade creates make you care for them and you want to know if they are happy and taken care of.
Jade, you have created another fabulous series that I can't wait to see where it goes! You have become one of my favorite authors!
November 11, 2010
I absolutely adored this book! The whole premise of another world and escaping it to arrive on Earth was done very well. The build up of the characters was exceptional - I just couldn't help but feel like I got to know and fall in love with Michael and Ethan! Ethan's cat characteristics and antics in his human form made me smile and wish I had my very own Ethan (hot, sexy, playful & loving - wow!). Michael was the perfect partner for Ethan and I was so glad that his prior bad experiences didn't prevent him from opening up and taking that chance with Ethan.
I would love to see more in the way of sequels - both a continuation of Michael and Ethan's story as well as a special story for Devon (which I believe is in progress - yay!). This was my first book by Jade, but it definitely won't be my last. As an introduction to her work, I couldn't be more pleased and would highly recommend both this book and this author to others!!
I would love to see more in the way of sequels - both a continuation of Michael and Ethan's story as well as a special story for Devon (which I believe is in progress - yay!). This was my first book by Jade, but it definitely won't be my last. As an introduction to her work, I couldn't be more pleased and would highly recommend both this book and this author to others!!
September 6, 2015
I've enjoyed all of Jade Archer's books that I've read so far. It was a good story with an interesting premise. I would have liked to have known what happened to the twins at the beginning when the master caught them out and about but will wait and see if maybe my curiosity is appeased in the next book;)
May 20, 2011
4.5 Stars
This book was so fecking sweet! Ethan was such a sweetheart and I love how Michael easily accepted him no matter what he was or where he came from.
And poor Devon! He just broke my heart. I will be reading his book asap because I can't wait for him to finally have some happiness.
Dropping half a star because the frequent POV shifts kept confusing me.
This book was so fecking sweet! Ethan was such a sweetheart and I love how Michael easily accepted him no matter what he was or where he came from.
And poor Devon! He just broke my heart. I will be reading his book asap because I can't wait for him to finally have some happiness.
Dropping half a star because the frequent POV shifts kept confusing me.
April 4, 2023
⭐️2.5⭐️
November 11, 2011
This book is a lot like cheesey porn. You can appreciate some of the hot sex, but other than that you just want them to give up on the poor acting and get down to business.
Let's start with the world-building and plot. In short, it was far-fetched. There are plenty of simpler alternatives I could think of that would have been far more believeable. Much of the intricacies seemed placed out of necessity to fill holes, rather than being a natural part of the world. Such as the shifter cats being immune to sexual disease and producing a natural lubricant in order to facilitate a bareback scene without eliciting the response that the characters were negligent for not using a condom. To name but one of many elements that pulled me out of the story for a second. *cough* Mages from another planet who use sex with cat-shifters who they keep as slaves to restore their magical energy.
The ending was completely unbelieveable. I'm sorry, but that's about as big a copout as Stephanie Meyer's ending with the Volturi leaving without a fight.
As for the writing style, it was nothing special. In fact, there is a clear lack of proof-reading. If an editor was used, I'd be calling for my money back.
The only thing stopping me from giving this one-star was the sex scenes. Yes, they bordered on being cheesey, badly-written scenes with copious amounts of 'seed' and 'pulsing shafts', but they weren't all that bad. This is one of the few cases where a book would have benefited from adding gratuitous sex scenes, because they really were the best thing this book has to offer - everything else just detracted from the experience. The main character, Ethan, was incredibly hot... I'll give the book that.
Overall, if you're looking for a short, mildly erotic read, this might be what you're looking for. If you're after a good read, you're probably better off looking elsewhere.
Let's start with the world-building and plot. In short, it was far-fetched. There are plenty of simpler alternatives I could think of that would have been far more believeable. Much of the intricacies seemed placed out of necessity to fill holes, rather than being a natural part of the world. Such as the shifter cats being immune to sexual disease and producing a natural lubricant in order to facilitate a bareback scene without eliciting the response that the characters were negligent for not using a condom. To name but one of many elements that pulled me out of the story for a second. *cough* Mages from another planet who use sex with cat-shifters who they keep as slaves to restore their magical energy.
The ending was completely unbelieveable. I'm sorry, but that's about as big a copout as Stephanie Meyer's ending with the Volturi leaving without a fight.
As for the writing style, it was nothing special. In fact, there is a clear lack of proof-reading. If an editor was used, I'd be calling for my money back.
The only thing stopping me from giving this one-star was the sex scenes. Yes, they bordered on being cheesey, badly-written scenes with copious amounts of 'seed' and 'pulsing shafts', but they weren't all that bad. This is one of the few cases where a book would have benefited from adding gratuitous sex scenes, because they really were the best thing this book has to offer - everything else just detracted from the experience. The main character, Ethan, was incredibly hot... I'll give the book that.
Overall, if you're looking for a short, mildly erotic read, this might be what you're looking for. If you're after a good read, you're probably better off looking elsewhere.
May 16, 2013
This is quite a lovely, fluffy story about Ethan, a Cat shifter, who is also the twin to Devon. Growing up, he's been groomed to become a Pleasure Cat, a part of a Mage's harem (who I presume are like the high class nobles of this world?). However all his life he's wanted to escape, and one day, with help, he uses a portal (thus the series name) to escape to another world. Namely, earth.
Then in comes the nurse who's all sensitive,wonderful, ya di da.
As I said, it's quite a fluffy, easy breeze to read, however with much darker chapters in Devon's POV. I am really really really desperately hoping for a book on Devon (I haven't checked yet as I'm actually writing this review in my phone-- tedious to maneuver). Devon's side of the story was absolutely heartbreaking, and the sweet serene, more submissive twin became such a dark, twisted person. Now that makes a more interesting story hm?
Not that I'm a sadist or anything... It's just once you cross that a certain line (ehem, aka read an Aleksandr Voinov novel) your tastes can change....
Then in comes the nurse who's all sensitive,wonderful, ya di da.
As I said, it's quite a fluffy, easy breeze to read, however with much darker chapters in Devon's POV. I am really really really desperately hoping for a book on Devon (I haven't checked yet as I'm actually writing this review in my phone-- tedious to maneuver). Devon's side of the story was absolutely heartbreaking, and the sweet serene, more submissive twin became such a dark, twisted person. Now that makes a more interesting story hm?
Not that I'm a sadist or anything... It's just once you cross that a certain line (ehem, aka read an Aleksandr Voinov novel) your tastes can change....
January 7, 2011
Nice story, good written one, if a bit short.
As a start of new series it's very intriguing.
Maybe it could've been better for the twins to stick together in the new realm too (=Earth) and HEA, but that would be too big of a cliche. Or what good would it do for them? Having one master/mate/lover? Again? I don't think so.
Can't wait to read Devon's story.
PS Another thought crossed my mind while reading the fight scene between Rolf and Michael, is that the latter seemed to be too weak for a guy of his description. Smart and quick to make crucial decisions, yes, but imo he should've tried harder.
As a start of new series it's very intriguing.
Maybe it could've been better for the twins to stick together in the new realm too (=Earth) and HEA, but that would be too big of a cliche. Or what good would it do for them? Having one master/mate/lover? Again? I don't think so.
Can't wait to read Devon's story.
PS Another thought crossed my mind while reading the fight scene between Rolf and Michael, is that the latter seemed to be too weak for a guy of his description. Smart and quick to make crucial decisions, yes, but imo he should've tried harder.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2011
It's a sweet and cute book, a little short and it's obvious that it's the first one of a series.
I really love Ethan and his desire for freedom. He is courageous and take the chance for a better life when he it passes.
Sadly, it's with Michael and his reaction face to Ethan that bother me in this book. They are unbelievable. He ask the minimum of question possible about a shape shifter he find in his house and do the 'instant-love' trick. Even if you love reading fantasy book like he said, that's not logic, well, for me! :P
I'm going to wait for the second, since the writer success in making me interest in the world she create.
I really love Ethan and his desire for freedom. He is courageous and take the chance for a better life when he it passes.
Sadly, it's with Michael and his reaction face to Ethan that bother me in this book. They are unbelievable. He ask the minimum of question possible about a shape shifter he find in his house and do the 'instant-love' trick. Even if you love reading fantasy book like he said, that's not logic, well, for me! :P
I'm going to wait for the second, since the writer success in making me interest in the world she create.
September 12, 2011
You know that feeling of satisfaction you get when you make the perfect cup of coffee and you take your first sip?
Perfect amount of coffee, sugar is just right & not to much milk.
Well this book gave me the same feeling.
It was JUST what I was looking for and I gave a heartfelt sigh after reading it. I was in the mood for a cute, funny and light read with a good plot and great characters.
Ms Archer pulled off my order to perfection.
I adored ever word and I am thrilled after reading it.
I cant wait to read the next book :)
Perfect amount of coffee, sugar is just right & not to much milk.
Well this book gave me the same feeling.
It was JUST what I was looking for and I gave a heartfelt sigh after reading it. I was in the mood for a cute, funny and light read with a good plot and great characters.
Ms Archer pulled off my order to perfection.
I adored ever word and I am thrilled after reading it.
I cant wait to read the next book :)
May 27, 2011
Extremely AWESOMEEEEEEEEEE....IN LOVE WITH ETHAN
JUMPING RIGHT INTO THE NEXT BOOK WHOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!
JUMPING RIGHT INTO THE NEXT BOOK WHOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!
April 14, 2011
Very good paranormal m/m romance about a cat shifter, raised with his twin brother to be pleasure slaves to a mage, who manages to escape his world and find his way to Earth, through the cat door and into the home of a very surprised nurse.
Currently reading
May 11, 2011Meh...it's alright...I mean there's a bit too much sex oriented. The emotional part is not developed...I mean the cat guy just had sex with that guy right when they first meet...-.-I guess he is a sex slave. cough*slut*cough.....
November 5, 2024
3.75 rounded up
It was a good simple hurt/comfort story! There were some spelling mistakes, and it could have been more detailed/longer and points (it was very insta-love) but over all I was engaged through it all! Cute characters
It was a good simple hurt/comfort story! There were some spelling mistakes, and it could have been more detailed/longer and points (it was very insta-love) but over all I was engaged through it all! Cute characters
August 11, 2016
Spoilers may follow.
This had a very slow start for me. Very slow. I wasn't at all sure if Ethan was gay because of the description the character offered about a female. Another character whom I thought might be the other MC, also had descriptions of the same female character that just confused me for a M/M book. I actually checked if it had been mistakenly included on the Best Gay Shifter list.
We finally meet the real other MC, Michael, and things kind of take off from there.
Ethan is a pleasure cat (shifter) in another realm/dimension/universe. There are apparently ways to open portals to other realms/dimensions/universes such a Earth. Ethan finds such a portal and escapes, leaving is twin brother Devon behind. Apparently pleasure cats are only useful in pairs, so Ethan and Devon's Master makes to throw Devon out. Devon offers to find his brother and bring him back.
The Ethan/Michael part of the book is very sweet--I love an exuberant innocent and a big, doting top--but there is another element that is much tougher to read and is what offered the only real conflict in the story after Ethan has escaped the harem and found Michael.
While Ethan finds a wonderful man on Earth, Devon is forced to endure emotional, physical, and sexual abuse from one of the cat warriors sent with him to try to find Ethan.
Anyone who doesn't like insta-love is not going to like this story. I don't have a problem with it, but this time it felt a little to easily accepted by both MCs. That wasn't too big a hit for me though and would have left the story at 4 stars.
However, there were too many simple errors for me to just gloss over them. This book needs an editor or at least a proofreader.
Still it was an interesting read, and I'll be looking to read Devon's Revenge if for nothing else to see if Devon can forgive and reunite with his brother.
This had a very slow start for me. Very slow. I wasn't at all sure if Ethan was gay because of the description the character offered about a female. Another character whom I thought might be the other MC, also had descriptions of the same female character that just confused me for a M/M book. I actually checked if it had been mistakenly included on the Best Gay Shifter list.
We finally meet the real other MC, Michael, and things kind of take off from there.
Ethan is a pleasure cat (shifter) in another realm/dimension/universe. There are apparently ways to open portals to other realms/dimensions/universes such a Earth. Ethan finds such a portal and escapes, leaving is twin brother Devon behind. Apparently pleasure cats are only useful in pairs, so Ethan and Devon's Master makes to throw Devon out. Devon offers to find his brother and bring him back.
The Ethan/Michael part of the book is very sweet--I love an exuberant innocent and a big, doting top--but there is another element that is much tougher to read and is what offered the only real conflict in the story after Ethan has escaped the harem and found Michael.
While Ethan finds a wonderful man on Earth, Devon is forced to endure emotional, physical, and sexual abuse from one of the cat warriors sent with him to try to find Ethan.
Anyone who doesn't like insta-love is not going to like this story. I don't have a problem with it, but this time it felt a little to easily accepted by both MCs. That wasn't too big a hit for me though and would have left the story at 4 stars.
However, there were too many simple errors for me to just gloss over them. This book needs an editor or at least a proofreader.
Still it was an interesting read, and I'll be looking to read Devon's Revenge if for nothing else to see if Devon can forgive and reunite with his brother.
June 19, 2011
Considering the spectacular circumstances here – falling in love with an alien, discovering an alien world, a deadly threat – this story was amazingly unspectacular. If one does not count the annoying amount of misspellings, missing letters and such which drove me up the walls, that is.
Somehow the characters and the writing couldn’t keep me interested all the time. Ethan was cute and appealing and although the discrepancy in character before and after he arrived on Earth was comprehensible it bothered me a bit. Michael, his love interest, was a very good match for Ethan, but he remained a bit pale as a character. And he accepted the whole crazy situation a bit too fast for my taste. Sure, that’s part of the fantasy and I agree it has its appeal, but for me it didn’t quite work here. The amount of internal musing and describing and the lack of dialogue over long parts of the story grew tedious after a while, especially after their first meeting. It felt as if they spent at least half the book in bed without actually doing much in there. And I’m not a friend of endless sex scenes.
So all in all this was pretty much an utterly forgettable read for me – if it weren’t for Devon, Ethan’s brother. His character added the drama and emotional edge to an otherwise light read. The betrayal he suffered, his physical and emotional pain, his despair, his hatred - it was awesome and saved the story for me insofar as I want to read his story, definitely. I could totally understand his desire to kick Ethan in the balls – hard – and I’m hoping this brotherly drama will be resolved in a satisfying way in the next installment along with the well deserved HEA for Devon.
Oh, and did I already mention the poor editing? Yes, I had to point that out twice. At the very least. Someone suggested my copy might be broken. Dunno, but I didn’t include the editing in my rating.
Somehow the characters and the writing couldn’t keep me interested all the time. Ethan was cute and appealing and although the discrepancy in character before and after he arrived on Earth was comprehensible it bothered me a bit. Michael, his love interest, was a very good match for Ethan, but he remained a bit pale as a character. And he accepted the whole crazy situation a bit too fast for my taste. Sure, that’s part of the fantasy and I agree it has its appeal, but for me it didn’t quite work here. The amount of internal musing and describing and the lack of dialogue over long parts of the story grew tedious after a while, especially after their first meeting. It felt as if they spent at least half the book in bed without actually doing much in there. And I’m not a friend of endless sex scenes.
So all in all this was pretty much an utterly forgettable read for me – if it weren’t for Devon, Ethan’s brother. His character added the drama and emotional edge to an otherwise light read. The betrayal he suffered, his physical and emotional pain, his despair, his hatred - it was awesome and saved the story for me insofar as I want to read his story, definitely. I could totally understand his desire to kick Ethan in the balls – hard – and I’m hoping this brotherly drama will be resolved in a satisfying way in the next installment along with the well deserved HEA for Devon.
Oh, and did I already mention the poor editing? Yes, I had to point that out twice. At the very least. Someone suggested my copy might be broken. Dunno, but I didn’t include the editing in my rating.
October 3, 2015
Just notes, not really a review:
Prologue just ended and first chapter began without finding out what the punishment had been. Couldn't have been too severe if they have no ill effects.
Way too long spent on thinking about what he was doing in the prologue and now again in the first chapter. I get the point! He wants to be outside and to feel free. I don't care about the woman and the soldier. Why was that there? He spent one sentence wishing for love but the rest for being outside. I'm already bored to tears.
Tell tell tell tell tell.
Many breaks in the sex scene to change POV. Almost as jarring as not breaking (but not quite). A good writer can show you how the other character is feeling or at least coming across (the mystery adds to the fun) without having to constantly change POVs.
Of course the cat speaks English.
He's supposed to be an exotic pleasure cat but the sex is really ordinary.
I obviously also read shifter romances but if someone just appeared in my bed where I expected a cat, I would still be startled and would find it very hard to believe.
After Ethan got to this world, things got much better. His brother Devon's hatred and anger made sense and it was nice to have something not all perfect. I would have liked the climax to go on a little longer but I'm sick.
I'm going to read the next one which I assume is Devon's story.
Despite the beginning, which was never answered, I give it 3.5 stars.
Prologue just ended and first chapter began without finding out what the punishment had been. Couldn't have been too severe if they have no ill effects.
Way too long spent on thinking about what he was doing in the prologue and now again in the first chapter. I get the point! He wants to be outside and to feel free. I don't care about the woman and the soldier. Why was that there? He spent one sentence wishing for love but the rest for being outside. I'm already bored to tears.
Tell tell tell tell tell.
Many breaks in the sex scene to change POV. Almost as jarring as not breaking (but not quite). A good writer can show you how the other character is feeling or at least coming across (the mystery adds to the fun) without having to constantly change POVs.
Of course the cat speaks English.
He's supposed to be an exotic pleasure cat but the sex is really ordinary.
I obviously also read shifter romances but if someone just appeared in my bed where I expected a cat, I would still be startled and would find it very hard to believe.
After Ethan got to this world, things got much better. His brother Devon's hatred and anger made sense and it was nice to have something not all perfect. I would have liked the climax to go on a little longer but I'm sick.
I'm going to read the next one which I assume is Devon's story.
Despite the beginning, which was never answered, I give it 3.5 stars.
January 28, 2011
I have a totally subjective view on this story. I couldn't give it more than a 2 star rating.
[spoiler ahead]The start seemed promising enough. A different world, mages using sexual release to power themselves. And the fate of two brothers forced to the lifestyle. But then the story veered from that back to normal human world. Helped by a mysterious character (that never got more than a few pages' presence, despite his involvement in the direction of the story), Ethan ends up in Sydney, practically in the arms of the one and only man that could understand him and give him what he needed. And Ethan was exactly the opposite of Daniel (which got a much too ample description, even if he was the ex). Well, it would have been a depressing story otherwise.
But what felt distracting were the other characters. I also felt sorry for Devon, taken away from the world he knew and felt comfortable in, forced to cater to the whims of a brute. Even Rolf's point of view was included, which got me thinking at one point that maybe he wasn't that bad (was proved wrong by the end of the book). There were too many interferences to let me concentrate on Ethan and Michael's story.[end spoiler]
All in all, it makes for nice reading. I just feel it deserved more space to grow and become more complex.
[spoiler ahead]The start seemed promising enough. A different world, mages using sexual release to power themselves. And the fate of two brothers forced to the lifestyle. But then the story veered from that back to normal human world. Helped by a mysterious character (that never got more than a few pages' presence, despite his involvement in the direction of the story), Ethan ends up in Sydney, practically in the arms of the one and only man that could understand him and give him what he needed. And Ethan was exactly the opposite of Daniel (which got a much too ample description, even if he was the ex). Well, it would have been a depressing story otherwise.
But what felt distracting were the other characters. I also felt sorry for Devon, taken away from the world he knew and felt comfortable in, forced to cater to the whims of a brute. Even Rolf's point of view was included, which got me thinking at one point that maybe he wasn't that bad (was proved wrong by the end of the book). There were too many interferences to let me concentrate on Ethan and Michael's story.[end spoiler]
All in all, it makes for nice reading. I just feel it deserved more space to grow and become more complex.
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December 10, 2010A recent review you might not have seen:
Literary Nymphs said: 4.5 Nymphs. The well-written plot is packed with tension, action, mystery in addition to fantastic intimate scenes.
http://literarynymphsreviewsonly.blog...
Ethan's Freedom is my first published novel length work. I started work on this story about two and a half years ago after wondering what would happen if a cosseted slave was suddenly freed. I wondered if he would really know what freedom was or just have an ideal built up in his head. And what would happen when this idealistic, free spirit met with the real world. Michael, on the other hand, came to me as a good man in need of a little freedom of his own - only he needed to find the freedom to risk and dream again after having his heart trampled on. Two very different men, meeting from opposite ends of the spectrum of life and finding love somewhere in the middle. I really hope you enjoy 'Ethan's Freedom'...I loved writing it! :D
If you'd like to check out an excerpt from this book, please feel free to follow the link below to my website :
http://www.jadearcher.com/Excerpt~_Et...
Literary Nymphs said: 4.5 Nymphs. The well-written plot is packed with tension, action, mystery in addition to fantastic intimate scenes.
http://literarynymphsreviewsonly.blog...
Ethan's Freedom is my first published novel length work. I started work on this story about two and a half years ago after wondering what would happen if a cosseted slave was suddenly freed. I wondered if he would really know what freedom was or just have an ideal built up in his head. And what would happen when this idealistic, free spirit met with the real world. Michael, on the other hand, came to me as a good man in need of a little freedom of his own - only he needed to find the freedom to risk and dream again after having his heart trampled on. Two very different men, meeting from opposite ends of the spectrum of life and finding love somewhere in the middle. I really hope you enjoy 'Ethan's Freedom'...I loved writing it! :D
If you'd like to check out an excerpt from this book, please feel free to follow the link below to my website :
http://www.jadearcher.com/Excerpt~_Et...
March 24, 2011
OK I'm still tripping a little from this one. Loved it!
Can't wait for the next one.
The story merges our sad and sorry world with a cruel sadistic magical one and it just works.
Interesting subplots carry you along with the fascinating characters that drill into your consciousness to make a home. Great sex, great details and just overall well crafted writing make it a joy to follow with a few smiles thrown in. I devoured it in one sitting.
There were a few irks but the only one I can remember is early on with one of the MC's making a comment about his taste in reading material being paranormal shapshifter romance - which of course the story is, and how his reaction compared to his fictional counterparts. It might be amusing to some - I just rolled my eyes.
Not all happy and slushy, plenty of angst and action and a tinge of darkness to round it all off.
I want more, much more... I want it now! 4.5 stars :D
Can't wait for the next one.
The story merges our sad and sorry world with a cruel sadistic magical one and it just works.
Interesting subplots carry you along with the fascinating characters that drill into your consciousness to make a home. Great sex, great details and just overall well crafted writing make it a joy to follow with a few smiles thrown in. I devoured it in one sitting.
There were a few irks but the only one I can remember is early on with one of the MC's making a comment about his taste in reading material being paranormal shapshifter romance - which of course the story is, and how his reaction compared to his fictional counterparts. It might be amusing to some - I just rolled my eyes.
Not all happy and slushy, plenty of angst and action and a tinge of darkness to round it all off.
I want more, much more... I want it now! 4.5 stars :D
August 13, 2015
Love the premise... Tantric Mage's who get their power from orgasms. I don't think I've ever heard that one before. I really like Ethan. The opening chapter when he was first trying to escape really helped show how much he wanted OUT. And then to have to spend so much more time trapped before he could finally escape must have been so difficult for him.
I must say he was a lucky kitty finding Michael. Such a kind sweet, sexy man, really needing someone to share his life. Perfect timing!!
I loved the story, though the end was a little wham bam. But the bad guy got caught, Ethan and Michael are okay, and the only down side was that Ethan's brother Devon ran away. But how else would there be a Portals, #2 (I hope).
Recommended.
=================================
1st read - Mar 26, 2012
2nd read - Aug 11, 2015
I must say he was a lucky kitty finding Michael. Such a kind sweet, sexy man, really needing someone to share his life. Perfect timing!!
I loved the story, though the end was a little wham bam. But the bad guy got caught, Ethan and Michael are okay, and the only down side was that Ethan's brother Devon ran away. But how else would there be a Portals, #2 (I hope).
Recommended.
=================================
1st read - Mar 26, 2012
2nd read - Aug 11, 2015
October 20, 2013
“He wanted Ethan’s spit and fire—his resistance and the feral light Nevin sometimes caught lurking in those amazing green eyes.”
Spit and fire. ...spit and fire.
...ooookay.
Eh. Other than that, it was pretty good until we had inexplicable info-dump when Ethan was telling Mikey about all the shit that was going down. It got the job done, sure, but it was also at odds with the established characterization.
Interludes about bro seemed...odd. But clearly, it's a series set-up.
Blah, blah, blah. Melodramatic shit happens. Random stuff.
Ah. I was right about the bro.
*sigh. Except at this point, it just seems tedious. I mean, clearly, bro had more angst-factor going for him.
Still, there were kitty-shifters, and kitties are awesome.
Spit and fire. ...spit and fire.
...ooookay.
Eh. Other than that, it was pretty good until we had inexplicable info-dump when Ethan was telling Mikey about all the shit that was going down. It got the job done, sure, but it was also at odds with the established characterization.
Interludes about bro seemed...odd. But clearly, it's a series set-up.
Blah, blah, blah. Melodramatic shit happens. Random stuff.
Ah. I was right about the bro.
*sigh. Except at this point, it just seems tedious. I mean, clearly, bro had more angst-factor going for him.
Still, there were kitty-shifters, and kitties are awesome.
October 19, 2024
2014 review: This has an interesting story line - the author really used her imagination to develop a unique world. I found these MC's charming and lovable. I'm glad it's a series and look forward to reading more.
2024 update: this series still only has 3 books and I enjoyed rereading them, however, the overarching story behind each romance is not finished. At this point, after over a decade, it doesn’t appear it will ever be finished which is a shame.
2024 update: this series still only has 3 books and I enjoyed rereading them, however, the overarching story behind each romance is not finished. At this point, after over a decade, it doesn’t appear it will ever be finished which is a shame.
July 23, 2014
I wasn’t crazy about this book, but it wasn’t a bad read. It was just kind of okay. Quick read. I am interested to read the second book though. The ending made me curious about some things, so I am sure that I will be reading the sequel. I can’t say that I would recommend this book. I am being generous with the 3 stars. According to GR rating and how I feel about the book, it should probably be a 2.5, but I’m sticking with my 3.
June 16, 2011
I loved Ethan and his zest and craving for life and while I wasn’t very convinced by how Michael accepted that his lover was an escaped alien cat pleasure slave and the whole “I always thought people’s reactions in novels and films were over the top” approach, it was a very sweet, cute story. 3.5 stars.
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