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Oracle #1
Oracle
Alex Sheridan. An empath with no memory of his early childhood. His body is covered in patterns and scars that he has tattooed as a permanant reminder.
Luke Mackinnon. A Professor of ancient languages. The US army think that he is the person to find the answers they need. Words in an ancient script that will lead them to a weapon to win the war of all wars. Others simply want him to find the Oracle for a revenge as old as time.
The legend. The power of the Oracle returning after fifty generations, sent to us by the Gods on Olympus.
When Alex and Luke meet there is more than just lust between them. There is a connection they can not understand. How can they begin to survive the evil that wants the Oracle?
Luke Mackinnon. A Professor of ancient languages. The US army think that he is the person to find the answers they need. Words in an ancient script that will lead them to a weapon to win the war of all wars. Others simply want him to find the Oracle for a revenge as old as time.
The legend. The power of the Oracle returning after fifty generations, sent to us by the Gods on Olympus.
When Alex and Luke meet there is more than just lust between them. There is a connection they can not understand. How can they begin to survive the evil that wants the Oracle?
303 pages, ebook
First published August 7, 2010
25 people are currently reading
488 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Scott
306 books2,704 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
August 10, 2010
Wow, I really liked this one!! I started to read and couldn't stop. The suspense kept me fascinated till the end.
I don't want to tell to much, but not only Alex and Luke are a great couple, but also Chris and Griff. Really good!!
I don't want to tell to much, but not only Alex and Luke are a great couple, but also Chris and Griff. Really good!!
February 6, 2012
This was a great read with likable characters and a good pace. Alex Sherridan is a thief with paranormal abilities but no memory of his youth before age 7. He was washed up on the shores of Greece with scars carved into his body which he later had tatoos along the lines of the scars. Luke McKinnon is a linguistic scholar hired to interpret ancient Greek scrolls in an an attempt to discover the Oracle at Delphi. When he meets Alex with his tatooed scars and abilities their lives become intertwined with the help of the gods. I reccomend this book to anyone with an open mind.
October 26, 2010
The plot that promised to be original and intriguing in the beginning somehow deteriorated into an average story in the second part the book. I found the writing style rather chaotic, with constantly changing POVs, the characters impulsive and a little bit on a hysterical side most of the time, either "out of right words" as the author herself put it or on a chatty side just at the wrong moments.
However, this is my personal opinion. 2 stars.
However, this is my personal opinion. 2 stars.
December 9, 2010
Wow - this was awesome and I loved it so much; the writing style, the characters, the unique plot, the Greek influences. Fabulous. I don't think I've read a book quite like it - it sucked me in immediately and kept me needing to know what was next all the way through. Alex was a beautiful character, so complex and emotionally-twisted. He brought me to tears more than once and I really worried that he would succeed in taking himself out of the equation.
There was so much sadness and pain, and yeah, now I have to mention Edward. Despite not being around all that long, I attached to him immediately and to be honest, for a while after his death I kept expecting him to reappear. :( Not that I didn't like Luke, he was a wonderful, supportive man, so sweet inside and out, and no one could deny he and Alex were destined to be together. The whole soul mates thing was beautiful and handled in a way that didn't make it over-mushy or annoying, and the Greek references and myths made the story so interesting, as well as thought-provoking. Can I mention the cover, too, please - stunning. I look forward to more from this author.
There was so much sadness and pain, and yeah, now I have to mention Edward. Despite not being around all that long, I attached to him immediately and to be honest, for a while after his death I kept expecting him to reappear. :( Not that I didn't like Luke, he was a wonderful, supportive man, so sweet inside and out, and no one could deny he and Alex were destined to be together. The whole soul mates thing was beautiful and handled in a way that didn't make it over-mushy or annoying, and the Greek references and myths made the story so interesting, as well as thought-provoking. Can I mention the cover, too, please - stunning. I look forward to more from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2013
Oracle: in ancient Greece
the person (such as a priestess) through whom a god was believed to speak
the place (such as a shrine) where people went to ask questions of an oracle
Many moons ago when I was but a wee unicorn I wasn’t into princesses and fairytales, I liked Hot Wheels and got my fantasy fix from Greek mythology. I’d already read quite a few of R.J. Scott’s books when we asked her to be our Author of the Month and I’d been wanting to read Oracle forever. It was an easy pick for me to figure out which book from her backlist I wanted to read and review and man did I pick a winner.
Alex Sheridan is a young man covered from the neck down in horrific scars and he has no memory of how they happened. He washed ashore as a young boy and was taken in by a big hearted Greek Thanos Castellanos who takes him in as a father figure and protector. Thanos is a true believer in the Greek myths and recognizes something in Alex, and knows he must be protected. Others take notice of Alex and well and Thanos sends him off to America to be adopted and to be safe. When Alex gets older he gets tattoos to cover the scars and his body is a canvas of ancient Greek symbols and words. His illustrated body tells the story of a past life, the life of a young boy, Athanasios, that was taken in sacrifice at Apollo’s temple. There is a splinter group, Xanos, headed by a priest who thrives on greed and power and there is nothing more powerful than that of the Oracle. The boy is spared by the gods, destiny determined that it was not his time and he lives with the gods, for fifty generations, until it is his time to be returned to earth to fulfill his destiny. This would be the Alex washing ashore part.
Alex is also an empath who can also perform telekinesis. He feels too much and must keep shields up at all times to protect himself. He can also control electronics and move inanimate objects. The only person he opens up to is his lover Edward and even then his boundaries are in place. Lowered, but in place. One fateful night Edward is murdered in what appears to be a random drive by shooting and his last directive to Alex is to return to Greece.
Luke MacKinnon is a professor of ancient languages who is contracted by the Army to translate some documents that have been found. Luke’s discoveries in the documents have his professor’s brain in cloud 9 and his protector and babysitter Lt. Christopher Samuels and he are soon off to Greece for more investigation. What he finds in his translations that he is able to complete with the information he has say,
“They speak of a man who can lead to the Oracle. A man of twenty seven summers who is not of our time. A man who can stop war and bring peace.”
He goes on to say,
“They’re some kind of unseen story, a new myth – a new legend from ancient Greece.”
“They describe this man as impossibly tall, with eyes of the sky and sea, and a body painted by the gods.”
Sound like anybody we know?
For a professor of ancient languages this is like winning the lottery and Luke and Samuels pretty quickly come to the conclusion that this new legend, if it were true, would be of great interest to any government who could find him if the legend turned out to be true. Luke relates it to the Nazi’s going after the Arc of the Covenant in Raiders and we learn a little about Luke’s crush on Harrison Ford in a fedora that I can totally support. Harrison Ford locked in time as Indy in Raiders is a permanent fixture on my desert island, sorry Luke.
This was what was fun about this story, some really good adventure but not so much action that you’re dragged away from the romance or the mystery, the elements were balanced well. Since this is really a book about fate and destiny Luke and Alex meet and to say their connection is explosive is an understatement. Neither completely understands the why’s and the how’s about what is happening between them but as I read about how lonely both men really were, it was so heartening to read about their connection. Alex finally being able to share his whole self with someone enough to be able to lower his shields and truly expose himself to another person for the first time. Then, seeing Luke drag his nose out of ancient texts long enough to become aware of another person. His longest relationships could be measured in weeks and probably were even shorter than he thought. He just wasn’t paying attention enough to know he’d been dumped.
The all over tattoo inspection was a favorite scene of mine and RJ Scott can really write the sexual tension.
While Alex is the reincarnation of Athanasios, there is of course a reincarnation of the evil priest who sacrificed the young boy so many centuries ago. Alex and Luke are kidnapped and are forced to show the members of Xanos where the Oracle is hidden. The action and ultimate resolution that happens on the mountain is pretty satisfying, wraps up the mystery well and answers all the questions that were floating around.
What happens when Alex and Luke return to real life really needs to be read and not told, it’s too good to be read about second hand. I liked that the change in Alex is dealt with and while it throws some new insecurities into the relationship, you do know the Fates had it right for these two.
I’ll definitely be reading Book of Secrets, the continuation of the story and would highly recommend Oracle, it was a great read I really enjoyed.
the person (such as a priestess) through whom a god was believed to speak
the place (such as a shrine) where people went to ask questions of an oracle
Many moons ago when I was but a wee unicorn I wasn’t into princesses and fairytales, I liked Hot Wheels and got my fantasy fix from Greek mythology. I’d already read quite a few of R.J. Scott’s books when we asked her to be our Author of the Month and I’d been wanting to read Oracle forever. It was an easy pick for me to figure out which book from her backlist I wanted to read and review and man did I pick a winner.
Alex Sheridan is a young man covered from the neck down in horrific scars and he has no memory of how they happened. He washed ashore as a young boy and was taken in by a big hearted Greek Thanos Castellanos who takes him in as a father figure and protector. Thanos is a true believer in the Greek myths and recognizes something in Alex, and knows he must be protected. Others take notice of Alex and well and Thanos sends him off to America to be adopted and to be safe. When Alex gets older he gets tattoos to cover the scars and his body is a canvas of ancient Greek symbols and words. His illustrated body tells the story of a past life, the life of a young boy, Athanasios, that was taken in sacrifice at Apollo’s temple. There is a splinter group, Xanos, headed by a priest who thrives on greed and power and there is nothing more powerful than that of the Oracle. The boy is spared by the gods, destiny determined that it was not his time and he lives with the gods, for fifty generations, until it is his time to be returned to earth to fulfill his destiny. This would be the Alex washing ashore part.
Alex is also an empath who can also perform telekinesis. He feels too much and must keep shields up at all times to protect himself. He can also control electronics and move inanimate objects. The only person he opens up to is his lover Edward and even then his boundaries are in place. Lowered, but in place. One fateful night Edward is murdered in what appears to be a random drive by shooting and his last directive to Alex is to return to Greece.
Luke MacKinnon is a professor of ancient languages who is contracted by the Army to translate some documents that have been found. Luke’s discoveries in the documents have his professor’s brain in cloud 9 and his protector and babysitter Lt. Christopher Samuels and he are soon off to Greece for more investigation. What he finds in his translations that he is able to complete with the information he has say,
“They speak of a man who can lead to the Oracle. A man of twenty seven summers who is not of our time. A man who can stop war and bring peace.”
He goes on to say,
“They’re some kind of unseen story, a new myth – a new legend from ancient Greece.”
“They describe this man as impossibly tall, with eyes of the sky and sea, and a body painted by the gods.”
Sound like anybody we know?
For a professor of ancient languages this is like winning the lottery and Luke and Samuels pretty quickly come to the conclusion that this new legend, if it were true, would be of great interest to any government who could find him if the legend turned out to be true. Luke relates it to the Nazi’s going after the Arc of the Covenant in Raiders and we learn a little about Luke’s crush on Harrison Ford in a fedora that I can totally support. Harrison Ford locked in time as Indy in Raiders is a permanent fixture on my desert island, sorry Luke.
This was what was fun about this story, some really good adventure but not so much action that you’re dragged away from the romance or the mystery, the elements were balanced well. Since this is really a book about fate and destiny Luke and Alex meet and to say their connection is explosive is an understatement. Neither completely understands the why’s and the how’s about what is happening between them but as I read about how lonely both men really were, it was so heartening to read about their connection. Alex finally being able to share his whole self with someone enough to be able to lower his shields and truly expose himself to another person for the first time. Then, seeing Luke drag his nose out of ancient texts long enough to become aware of another person. His longest relationships could be measured in weeks and probably were even shorter than he thought. He just wasn’t paying attention enough to know he’d been dumped.
The all over tattoo inspection was a favorite scene of mine and RJ Scott can really write the sexual tension.
While Alex is the reincarnation of Athanasios, there is of course a reincarnation of the evil priest who sacrificed the young boy so many centuries ago. Alex and Luke are kidnapped and are forced to show the members of Xanos where the Oracle is hidden. The action and ultimate resolution that happens on the mountain is pretty satisfying, wraps up the mystery well and answers all the questions that were floating around.
What happens when Alex and Luke return to real life really needs to be read and not told, it’s too good to be read about second hand. I liked that the change in Alex is dealt with and while it throws some new insecurities into the relationship, you do know the Fates had it right for these two.
I’ll definitely be reading Book of Secrets, the continuation of the story and would highly recommend Oracle, it was a great read I really enjoyed.
September 18, 2015
I do love me a story with a good mystery that needs solving, and one with paranormal and mythological overtones makes everything even better. Add the riddle of a "forgotten" past, scars that nobody can explain, and some international thievery and intrigue, and I am one happy reader. Oh yes, and the romance is great as well! Oracle has all of that and more suspense than you'll know what to do with, and the best news, now that I finally got around to reading it, is that a sequel will be out very soon.
Alex is an empath. That alone makes him special, but all the secrets in his past, the unexplained scars on his body, and the other abilities he develops make him even more mysterious. Beyond that he is also a very nice man, desperate for love, unable to remember even his parents. He is pretty alone in the world and when his lover dies, the only person who was able to touch Alex without causing him to feel pain is gone. All the mystery around Alex's past is interesting enough, but when he meets Luke and there is suddenly a more than casual connection, the suspense increases and reaches into Alex's personal life as well.
Luke is a great guy. He may have been called in for his talent with languages, and thinks he is "only" looking for the Oracle of Delphi, but he soon finds out there is much more going on than he suspected. A man who believes in facts, he has a hard time dealing with all the supernatural aspects and provides a good balance for the more paranormally-inclined Alex. I also loved the way he stands by Alex once they discover there is more to their relationship than a professional link.
Using an existing legend like the Oracle of Delphi and re-interpreting it with a paranormal angle, giving it a modern slant, and adding characters I cared for from the very beginning made this story a joy for me to read. The balance between action/adventure and romance is really good, letting both parts of the story shine. If you like mystery and intrigue in your romances, if you enjoy a plotline that will keep you in suspense, and if you prefer to read about characters who are real and human in their reactions, then you will probably enjoy this books as much as I did. Bring on the sequel, RJ!
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Alex is an empath. That alone makes him special, but all the secrets in his past, the unexplained scars on his body, and the other abilities he develops make him even more mysterious. Beyond that he is also a very nice man, desperate for love, unable to remember even his parents. He is pretty alone in the world and when his lover dies, the only person who was able to touch Alex without causing him to feel pain is gone. All the mystery around Alex's past is interesting enough, but when he meets Luke and there is suddenly a more than casual connection, the suspense increases and reaches into Alex's personal life as well.
Luke is a great guy. He may have been called in for his talent with languages, and thinks he is "only" looking for the Oracle of Delphi, but he soon finds out there is much more going on than he suspected. A man who believes in facts, he has a hard time dealing with all the supernatural aspects and provides a good balance for the more paranormally-inclined Alex. I also loved the way he stands by Alex once they discover there is more to their relationship than a professional link.
Using an existing legend like the Oracle of Delphi and re-interpreting it with a paranormal angle, giving it a modern slant, and adding characters I cared for from the very beginning made this story a joy for me to read. The balance between action/adventure and romance is really good, letting both parts of the story shine. If you like mystery and intrigue in your romances, if you enjoy a plotline that will keep you in suspense, and if you prefer to read about characters who are real and human in their reactions, then you will probably enjoy this books as much as I did. Bring on the sequel, RJ!
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 4, 2010
This may be my last review for some time and I feel RJ warrants one on this book. For you, RJ.
There is so much details(s) in this book that I couldn't even begin to grasp the research that might have been involved to producing a great story or maybe it's just the works of a sound mind with unlimited imagination and visionary that goes beyond what most can comprehend.
The plot, the places, the characters depict and make a combination which gives this story one hellova an impact that at times could overwhelm but mostly kept you deep-seated into falling completely into the fantasy the story provided.
I was saddened by what one of the characters Alex had to put up with just for being different and unique in a world that didn't understand, wanted him for their own gain and their own means because of maybe fear, greed or maybe just selfishness. Life became an everyday struggle in accepting and coming to terms with he really is, was and accepting himself. Luke came into his life and became his rock that grounded Alex and the two make an impeccable pair once they unite.
I look forward to reading more of RJ's stories after having read this one.
Thank you. ~S~
There is so much details(s) in this book that I couldn't even begin to grasp the research that might have been involved to producing a great story or maybe it's just the works of a sound mind with unlimited imagination and visionary that goes beyond what most can comprehend.
The plot, the places, the characters depict and make a combination which gives this story one hellova an impact that at times could overwhelm but mostly kept you deep-seated into falling completely into the fantasy the story provided.
I was saddened by what one of the characters Alex had to put up with just for being different and unique in a world that didn't understand, wanted him for their own gain and their own means because of maybe fear, greed or maybe just selfishness. Life became an everyday struggle in accepting and coming to terms with he really is, was and accepting himself. Luke came into his life and became his rock that grounded Alex and the two make an impeccable pair once they unite.
I look forward to reading more of RJ's stories after having read this one.
Thank you. ~S~
September 18, 2010
Oracle is much more than just another bit of m/m erotica. The romance is there, but it is woven through out a plot as compelling as it is complex. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. The characters are engaging and believable, the back story vibrant and brilliantly presented. RJ Scott produced an incredible work as a first book. Oracle is story telling at it's best, and I highly recommend it.
November 10, 2010
Great great read! It had me on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading it:-)
April 23, 2011
Дикий ужас. Автора хочется погладить по голове и сказать - ну вот у тебя же так хорошо получается писать любовные романы, ну вот с какого перепугу тебя потянуло на авантюрные?
August 2, 2013
On the up side, the author knows her grammar (or her editor does, it's not relevant) and is capable of putting together whole paragraphs without making her reader shudder with horror. This is not a given in this sub-genre.
That is all, I am afraid.
Although the basic assumption is interesting (classical Greece not being popular among fantasy writers) and the author curiously manages to create single pages of nearly spotless writing, all in all this novel lacks it all: plot, which is clumsy and hard to believe, tension, characterization (non existing) and erotica (boring, wordy, laughable).
I am aware this is supposed to be a M/M romance, pure entertainment for undemanding readers (exactly what I was looking for, by the way) but in my opinion it fails to deliver even within this limited scope. I could never care for the characters, I never got thrilled by their being together or afraid for their happily ever after.
This said, some curious notions about classical and modern Greece are quite unimportant.
That is all, I am afraid.
Although the basic assumption is interesting (classical Greece not being popular among fantasy writers) and the author curiously manages to create single pages of nearly spotless writing, all in all this novel lacks it all: plot, which is clumsy and hard to believe, tension, characterization (non existing) and erotica (boring, wordy, laughable).
I am aware this is supposed to be a M/M romance, pure entertainment for undemanding readers (exactly what I was looking for, by the way) but in my opinion it fails to deliver even within this limited scope. I could never care for the characters, I never got thrilled by their being together or afraid for their happily ever after.
This said, some curious notions about classical and modern Greece are quite unimportant.
June 1, 2012
An Empath who holds the power to the Oracle, mixed in with Greek mythology. Great concept to a story i really wanted to enjoy.
Alas, I didn't feel the connection with the characters at all. I needed more depth into the story, more than I needed the erotic love scenes, as steamy as they were.
Alas, I didn't feel the connection with the characters at all. I needed more depth into the story, more than I needed the erotic love scenes, as steamy as they were.
October 26, 2015
2010 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
November 3, 2014
4.5 stars-
So I stayed up too late finishing this book and fell asleep trying to write the review, so what? NO judging! Seriously, it was one of those books that I kept saying that I would put down as soon as I finished this chapter or this section or this page and I just never managed to.
Basically take a little Greek mythology and combined it with a modern day love story and you get this book. I enjoyed the characters and the way the story unfolded. I liked the secondary characters. I wish we had gotten a better read on one of the military men because I wasn't really clear on his place in the book. And I'd really like to read more about all of the guys we met. I know we have already reached the end of the story between Alex and Luke, but I'd love to see the story of Chris and Griff. Griff is definitely a mystery to me- in the good way. He seems to have led an interesting life and I'd love to read more about him. and if we happen to see Alex and Luke again, I wouldn't complain!
My sole complaint is that there were quite a few times in the book that the wrong name was written and it took me out of it a second while I tried to go back and figure out if I had missed something or if it was a typo. It happened more towards the end than the beginning. That's what lost that 1/2 star for me. I know things like that don't bother some people and it only bugs me when I'm really in to a story because it pulls me out for a second while I figure out what went wrong.
Anyway, I had never really heard of this author and definitely not heard of this book before. Then I won it by voting in a cover contest. I was given the choice of a few books, but ironically the cover of this one kept drawing me to it which is good- I'm awful at picking books based sole on their blurbs. And I'm glad I did. I think I'll be checking out other works by this author.
So I stayed up too late finishing this book and fell asleep trying to write the review, so what? NO judging! Seriously, it was one of those books that I kept saying that I would put down as soon as I finished this chapter or this section or this page and I just never managed to.
Basically take a little Greek mythology and combined it with a modern day love story and you get this book. I enjoyed the characters and the way the story unfolded. I liked the secondary characters. I wish we had gotten a better read on one of the military men because I wasn't really clear on his place in the book. And I'd really like to read more about all of the guys we met. I know we have already reached the end of the story between Alex and Luke, but I'd love to see the story of Chris and Griff. Griff is definitely a mystery to me- in the good way. He seems to have led an interesting life and I'd love to read more about him. and if we happen to see Alex and Luke again, I wouldn't complain!
My sole complaint is that there were quite a few times in the book that the wrong name was written and it took me out of it a second while I tried to go back and figure out if I had missed something or if it was a typo. It happened more towards the end than the beginning. That's what lost that 1/2 star for me. I know things like that don't bother some people and it only bugs me when I'm really in to a story because it pulls me out for a second while I figure out what went wrong.
Anyway, I had never really heard of this author and definitely not heard of this book before. Then I won it by voting in a cover contest. I was given the choice of a few books, but ironically the cover of this one kept drawing me to it which is good- I'm awful at picking books based sole on their blurbs. And I'm glad I did. I think I'll be checking out other works by this author.
August 11, 2012
Sadly, I'd rate this somewhere between 1 and 2 stars. But I rounded to 2 for the sake of it.
I'm sorry to say I didn't find the characters convincing.
Overall, I felt disappointed by the book. Its direction was contrary to what I expected and as such I couldn't focus on the story line or care about the characters. Thus the low rating.
I'm sorry to say I didn't find the characters convincing.
Overall, I felt disappointed by the book. Its direction was contrary to what I expected and as such I couldn't focus on the story line or care about the characters. Thus the low rating.
February 27, 2011
RJ Scott!!! You may become my NEW Addiction!!
This was my 2nd Book I have read By RJ, and I Loved it!!
I am not sure where to begin, What a ride of emotions!!
First of,Alex*sigh* He was So Damn Sexy!! I really liked his Character with Edward he was so Lovely and it thought Oh YES this is going to be Great!!! and then I was like Shit, what now?? BUT then along came Luke,OH HOT damn I loved Luke!! The connection these to had was Freaking AMAZING!! I loved this story, then only reason I didnt give it 5 stars is only because i wanted it to be a little bit Longer, and maybe a little more sex!! I am a little greedy when it come to that!! But they were perfect for each other, I had tears in my eyes at the end, i was freaking out!! But I was so happy with the out come!!I really enjoyed getting to know Chris and Griff they were so good, i would love to know what happens to them as well* hint hint wink wink*
I honestly cant wait to read another RJ book!!
OMG I loved this line!!
and one more!! *SIGH*
For every one who has not read this one, What are you waiting for???
"I love you Alex,I couldn't imaging leaving you for one minute."
This was my 2nd Book I have read By RJ, and I Loved it!!
I am not sure where to begin, What a ride of emotions!!
First of,Alex*sigh* He was So Damn Sexy!! I really liked his Character with Edward he was so Lovely and it thought Oh YES this is going to be Great!!! and then I was like Shit, what now?? BUT then along came Luke,OH HOT damn I loved Luke!! The connection these to had was Freaking AMAZING!! I loved this story, then only reason I didnt give it 5 stars is only because i wanted it to be a little bit Longer, and maybe a little more sex!! I am a little greedy when it come to that!! But they were perfect for each other, I had tears in my eyes at the end, i was freaking out!! But I was so happy with the out come!!I really enjoyed getting to know Chris and Griff they were so good, i would love to know what happens to them as well* hint hint wink wink*
I honestly cant wait to read another RJ book!!
OMG I loved this line!!
and one more!! *SIGH*
For every one who has not read this one, What are you waiting for???
"I love you Alex,I couldn't imaging leaving you for one minute."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2011
Great story and very out side the set of most m/m romance. The erotica side was well handled and whilst not explicit, I would rate it at a HOT level.
Characters - hmmm well this is one of the reasons it's not sitting higher on the star's. They are fairly well handled but there are times when the characters just 'randomly' jump personality traits and honestly this was annoying as all hell. More so in the middle of the book.
Plot - This was a great thing, once it started - I thought I'd picked up pwp book at the start. Then we finally started settling into the story, great twist there (not telling you where!) Again though around the middle of the book the story seemed to jump about like it was handled in spits and spats for a LONG period of time before the book was finished!
NOW having said all that, I really didn't mind this book. I think mostly because it does differ from SO MUCH m/m romance. I think most people should be able to enjoy this read even with the problems I found - in fact probably more so! (not because I'm better, just that I tend to read for a particular reason!)
Thanks to RJ for this story and I look forward to finding something else of yours in the near future.
Characters - hmmm well this is one of the reasons it's not sitting higher on the star's. They are fairly well handled but there are times when the characters just 'randomly' jump personality traits and honestly this was annoying as all hell. More so in the middle of the book.
Plot - This was a great thing, once it started - I thought I'd picked up pwp book at the start. Then we finally started settling into the story, great twist there (not telling you where!) Again though around the middle of the book the story seemed to jump about like it was handled in spits and spats for a LONG period of time before the book was finished!
NOW having said all that, I really didn't mind this book. I think mostly because it does differ from SO MUCH m/m romance. I think most people should be able to enjoy this read even with the problems I found - in fact probably more so! (not because I'm better, just that I tend to read for a particular reason!)
Thanks to RJ for this story and I look forward to finding something else of yours in the near future.
August 18, 2013
SlashReader: I have to say that I was less than impressed by this modern reinterpretation of the legend of the Oracle of Delphi. The idea was great, and there were some good parts to this novel but overall, I had some larger issues. The whole plot was interesting, but sort of unteathered. I would have believed that there was a secret sect waiting around from the past for the Oracle to appear but how did the military get involved? Where they get started going down this track? Ecetera, if there was a tie in there it didn't make much sense to me.
Beyond that, honestly? I didn't feel the connection between Luke and Alex. It was like touch, wham bham thank you mam, all the time. I didn't buy the feelings between them. I also found R.J. Scott's writing to be somewhat confusing, so that often I wasn't exactly sure what was going on. Connections that were made didn't make sense to me. The only relationship that I found even somewhat interesting was the side one.
So I guess in the end I felt that this book needed more clarity. The idea's needed to be worked out a little more, the relationship and the characters need more than instant attraction and soul mating to be believable. I was not inspired to read the second book.
Beyond that, honestly? I didn't feel the connection between Luke and Alex. It was like touch, wham bham thank you mam, all the time. I didn't buy the feelings between them. I also found R.J. Scott's writing to be somewhat confusing, so that often I wasn't exactly sure what was going on. Connections that were made didn't make sense to me. The only relationship that I found even somewhat interesting was the side one.
So I guess in the end I felt that this book needed more clarity. The idea's needed to be worked out a little more, the relationship and the characters need more than instant attraction and soul mating to be believable. I was not inspired to read the second book.
February 20, 2012
I really wanted to like this book. Really, really wanted to. The empath concept is fascinating to me, then add in some greek mythology and some covert millenias-old organizations bent on world domination and that sounds like a recipe for some fun. Plus, I've thoroughly enjoyed the other books I've read by RJ Scott. I was disappointed that all of the fun elements in this book weren't handled as well as they could have been.
The Alex's empath thing was never explained effectively. At times closeness caused him, and the person he was with, great pain and he needed to build walls and heal from it. Other times, he needed the connection with the other person in order to heal. The reason for the pain wasn't made clear, nor was the reason it only came at certain times.
I did enjoy the mythology and the way that was handled, including traveling all over Greece trying to find places mentioned in obscure texts.
I just wish I'd gotten a better understanding of who Alex was and the way his abilities worked.
The Alex's empath thing was never explained effectively. At times closeness caused him, and the person he was with, great pain and he needed to build walls and heal from it. Other times, he needed the connection with the other person in order to heal. The reason for the pain wasn't made clear, nor was the reason it only came at certain times.
I did enjoy the mythology and the way that was handled, including traveling all over Greece trying to find places mentioned in obscure texts.
I just wish I'd gotten a better understanding of who Alex was and the way his abilities worked.
December 19, 2010
*sniff sniff sniff*
What a great book this is.. I read this in one go, and was absolutly hooked from the first page.
Yeah, I teared up a bit when Edward died, but just the fact that Alex couldnt tell him that he loved him, gave it away that they werent meant to be..
In comes Luke.. Sweet, nerdy, brainy Professor Luke.. Aww I loved him..
I loved the story, the plot, the characters, and more than anything I loved how we got this beautiful love story, intertwined in a seriously interesting plot that just had me turning the pages with excitement, and gasping out loud (for real) when something new happened..
Whats to say about Alex and Luke? They were definitely meant to be, and I LOVED how Luke's name was the only tattoo that wasnt removed. I LOVED how Alex finally got to say those 3 words that means so much.. (and that was where I cried for real btw.. lol ;)
All in all I just really loved this book! 5 stars for sure..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2024
Well this was a fun, light, quick read. Of course my little Classicist’s heart was made very happy with all the ancient Greece references. I do enjoy a entertaining adventure story and this had some nice elements of that. In the end it just felt a little unrefined and had some dangling ends that left it at fun but not fantastic.
Alex Sheridan has been different his whole life. He can do things others can’t. While he has no memories of his early childhood his younger years were made more difficult by the multitude of scars running over his body. Once he was old enough to make his own decisions Alex had tattoos laid over the patterns in his skin. As an empath connecting with people hasn’t always been easy. He’s always had to be on his guard with his personal walls raised to prevent being overloaded. His lover Edward has been his only port in the storm even if Edward has encouraged him to use his unique talents for a decidedly unlawful task. While most of their antiquities business may be on the up and up it certainly isn’t always the case. When Edward is shot though after leaving their most recent job Alex’s world goes into a tailspin.
Professor Luke MacKinnon has been devoted to the study of ancient languages for most of his adult life. He adores getting lost in the research and an untranslated ancient scroll is like catnip for the man. Of course his most recent assignment disappearing out from under the museum’s nose certainly isn’t helpful. In fact the only plus to come out of that trip to England was meeting the tattooed man he just can’t seem to get out of his head. Having the US Army turn up on his doorstep days later though is a decidedly different and strange turn of events.
Ok so I adored all the pieces of this story. I loved the idea of the Oracle returning and who exactly Alex is. I just wanted more. I wanted more intrigue and more researching to figure it all out. I think I really wanted this to turn into an action adventure story with a bit of falling in love along the way. And I admit I certainly got dollops of that with this book. It just felt a bit like someone dipping their toe in the water to check the temperature instead of just diving on in and having the pleasant surprise that the water’s fine. I would have luxuriated in the second option. The first just has me wishing the water wasn’t only a few inches deep.
It took me a minute to figure out Luke’s personality because his introduction led me down a different mental path. I was expecting much more Indiana Jones than the absent-minded professor. After all we’re introduced to him in shadows and he came across in that moment as the strong silent type. But I did love him anyway all the same. I just felt awful for poor Alex. He’s had a rough life to start things off and to have had all those scars carved into his body would have been horrific. To experience what he did with Edward and to have it end so brutally was awful. It was easy to see why the relationship between these two was a bit twisty and awkward at times. Alex for obvious reasons has a difficult time reaching out and Luke needed time to figure out everything as well.
There’s a bit of a delayed reaction syndrome in this book as well. With all that Alex can do I didn’t always buy the way people reacted when they found out, especially with Lt. Christopher Samuels. No real reaction when he spirits you away from an army base, but shock and amazement when sitting at the kitchen table was a little strange. Luke never really reacts to the strange and surreal at all until he sees that tattoo on Alex’s thigh. Then I definitely got the freak out I’d been waiting for. :D
Of course since fate and destiny play a large part in this story Luke and Alex’s relationship is a teensy tiny bit explosive. But hey, hot sex is good sex. ;D I liked Alex’s internal battle over not wanting to push Luke into anything that he didn’t want. He questioned what his abilities were capable of and that certainly made me like him all the more. I enjoyed these two together and I liked that despite the strong immediate connection it wasn’t a smooth joining either.
So this next little thought is pretty plot related so I’m going to just spoiler the whole thing… Anyway that just bugged me a bit. Rant over.
Still I had a lot of fun with this one and will round it up to 4 stars from the 3.5 stars I’d normally give it for some plot inconsistencies. All in all I would have enjoyed a bit more development time and more antics running around and discovering things, but ancient Greek Oracles are always a plus in my book. I’ll definitely look for book 2. :D
Alex Sheridan has been different his whole life. He can do things others can’t. While he has no memories of his early childhood his younger years were made more difficult by the multitude of scars running over his body. Once he was old enough to make his own decisions Alex had tattoos laid over the patterns in his skin. As an empath connecting with people hasn’t always been easy. He’s always had to be on his guard with his personal walls raised to prevent being overloaded. His lover Edward has been his only port in the storm even if Edward has encouraged him to use his unique talents for a decidedly unlawful task. While most of their antiquities business may be on the up and up it certainly isn’t always the case. When Edward is shot though after leaving their most recent job Alex’s world goes into a tailspin.
Professor Luke MacKinnon has been devoted to the study of ancient languages for most of his adult life. He adores getting lost in the research and an untranslated ancient scroll is like catnip for the man. Of course his most recent assignment disappearing out from under the museum’s nose certainly isn’t helpful. In fact the only plus to come out of that trip to England was meeting the tattooed man he just can’t seem to get out of his head. Having the US Army turn up on his doorstep days later though is a decidedly different and strange turn of events.
Ok so I adored all the pieces of this story. I loved the idea of the Oracle returning and who exactly Alex is. I just wanted more. I wanted more intrigue and more researching to figure it all out. I think I really wanted this to turn into an action adventure story with a bit of falling in love along the way. And I admit I certainly got dollops of that with this book. It just felt a bit like someone dipping their toe in the water to check the temperature instead of just diving on in and having the pleasant surprise that the water’s fine. I would have luxuriated in the second option. The first just has me wishing the water wasn’t only a few inches deep.
It took me a minute to figure out Luke’s personality because his introduction led me down a different mental path. I was expecting much more Indiana Jones than the absent-minded professor. After all we’re introduced to him in shadows and he came across in that moment as the strong silent type. But I did love him anyway all the same. I just felt awful for poor Alex. He’s had a rough life to start things off and to have had all those scars carved into his body would have been horrific. To experience what he did with Edward and to have it end so brutally was awful. It was easy to see why the relationship between these two was a bit twisty and awkward at times. Alex for obvious reasons has a difficult time reaching out and Luke needed time to figure out everything as well.
There’s a bit of a delayed reaction syndrome in this book as well. With all that Alex can do I didn’t always buy the way people reacted when they found out, especially with Lt. Christopher Samuels. No real reaction when he spirits you away from an army base, but shock and amazement when sitting at the kitchen table was a little strange. Luke never really reacts to the strange and surreal at all until he sees that tattoo on Alex’s thigh. Then I definitely got the freak out I’d been waiting for. :D
Of course since fate and destiny play a large part in this story Luke and Alex’s relationship is a teensy tiny bit explosive. But hey, hot sex is good sex. ;D I liked Alex’s internal battle over not wanting to push Luke into anything that he didn’t want. He questioned what his abilities were capable of and that certainly made me like him all the more. I enjoyed these two together and I liked that despite the strong immediate connection it wasn’t a smooth joining either.
So this next little thought is pretty plot related so I’m going to just spoiler the whole thing… Anyway that just bugged me a bit. Rant over.
Still I had a lot of fun with this one and will round it up to 4 stars from the 3.5 stars I’d normally give it for some plot inconsistencies. All in all I would have enjoyed a bit more development time and more antics running around and discovering things, but ancient Greek Oracles are always a plus in my book. I’ll definitely look for book 2. :D
December 9, 2014
If you like a good supernatural thriller, with a bit of man loving on the side then this is like hitting the jackpot kidz.
American Alex Sheridan and his partner Earl of Enstone, Edward du Chauncey are a professional thieves of relics and artefacts sold on the underground blackmarket. It's the perfect job for them. Edward the brain and connections to get them access to all the right exhibition openings and Alex the Brawn, of the supernatural kind, not the comic book type of super powers either.
He is special and while waiting for the right time at a job, Alex is thrown as he meets someone who notices one of his tattoos. This alarms Alex because it is ancient Greek. A language only a few know how to recognise, let alone read. He is thrown for a bit but the consummate professional get the job done and all is well until they realise that they're being followed.
Alex's life is thrown into chaos as he is alone in the world again, not knowing why or how he ends up on the door step of a mansion in Greece, he doesn't know what to expect or why he's even there until the owner sees him and recognises him. This throws Alex even more because he needs answers to questions beginning with why he has no memories of his life until the age of eight. This man says I know, and he knows more than Alex could have possibly imagined.
So basically if you like smart handsome thieves, military closet cases, professors who study ancient Greek and Greek mythology and also prefers it like the Greeks used. You now have the chance to leave scorch marks on the pages of a paperback or possiblly short out your e-reader from pushing the next page button too quickly, you'll need it replaced. This is a fast paced thriller with fast paced hook ups with cute men!!! Full of cloak and dagger, espionage, kidnapping of loved ones, deities from days gone by, secret military bases and deranged religious fanatics and hot M/M action then READ IT ;) The adrenaline rush is also full on and so is an empathic connection that makes for interesting encounters that are not restricted to the bedroom.
American Alex Sheridan and his partner Earl of Enstone, Edward du Chauncey are a professional thieves of relics and artefacts sold on the underground blackmarket. It's the perfect job for them. Edward the brain and connections to get them access to all the right exhibition openings and Alex the Brawn, of the supernatural kind, not the comic book type of super powers either.
He is special and while waiting for the right time at a job, Alex is thrown as he meets someone who notices one of his tattoos. This alarms Alex because it is ancient Greek. A language only a few know how to recognise, let alone read. He is thrown for a bit but the consummate professional get the job done and all is well until they realise that they're being followed.
Alex's life is thrown into chaos as he is alone in the world again, not knowing why or how he ends up on the door step of a mansion in Greece, he doesn't know what to expect or why he's even there until the owner sees him and recognises him. This throws Alex even more because he needs answers to questions beginning with why he has no memories of his life until the age of eight. This man says I know, and he knows more than Alex could have possibly imagined.
So basically if you like smart handsome thieves, military closet cases, professors who study ancient Greek and Greek mythology and also prefers it like the Greeks used. You now have the chance to leave scorch marks on the pages of a paperback or possiblly short out your e-reader from pushing the next page button too quickly, you'll need it replaced. This is a fast paced thriller with fast paced hook ups with cute men!!! Full of cloak and dagger, espionage, kidnapping of loved ones, deities from days gone by, secret military bases and deranged religious fanatics and hot M/M action then READ IT ;) The adrenaline rush is also full on and so is an empathic connection that makes for interesting encounters that are not restricted to the bedroom.
January 12, 2011
Jaymes’ Review:
Oracle by RJ Scott is in one word beautiful. You have to take the journey with Alex to find that beauty but it’s there and it will bring a smile, and a few tears, to your face.
I was intrigued by the summary. I was further enthralled when my inner Classicist was given a unique and intriguing interpretation of the Oracle. I have always had a fondness for all things Greek or Roman myth related, much like Luke, and this didn’t disappoint.
Alex and Luke were destined to be together although neither knew it. They felt a spark of something when they first met but it wasn’t until Luke was sucked into the darker world of an ancient cult that brought it into sharp relief. I was taken by how Alex was able to turn the darkness of his unknown past and create a life for himself with Edward who was killed by the same mindless acolytes searching for the Oracle. Even through his grief at losing Edward, Alex was able to force himself to move forward and accept what he given with Luke. Fast and furious with a blindingly hot passion Luke and Alex connect as soulmates.
Heart wrenching and heartwarming both at the same time, Oracle is not a book to be missed. If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading RJ Scott, now is the time to add her to your list.
Rated 5 Gold Crowns and a Recommended Read by Jaymes!
Oracle by RJ Scott is in one word beautiful. You have to take the journey with Alex to find that beauty but it’s there and it will bring a smile, and a few tears, to your face.
I was intrigued by the summary. I was further enthralled when my inner Classicist was given a unique and intriguing interpretation of the Oracle. I have always had a fondness for all things Greek or Roman myth related, much like Luke, and this didn’t disappoint.
Alex and Luke were destined to be together although neither knew it. They felt a spark of something when they first met but it wasn’t until Luke was sucked into the darker world of an ancient cult that brought it into sharp relief. I was taken by how Alex was able to turn the darkness of his unknown past and create a life for himself with Edward who was killed by the same mindless acolytes searching for the Oracle. Even through his grief at losing Edward, Alex was able to force himself to move forward and accept what he given with Luke. Fast and furious with a blindingly hot passion Luke and Alex connect as soulmates.
Heart wrenching and heartwarming both at the same time, Oracle is not a book to be missed. If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading RJ Scott, now is the time to add her to your list.
Rated 5 Gold Crowns and a Recommended Read by Jaymes!
September 20, 2011
This is a story about two people, Alex and Luke thrown together by destiny. A destiny surrounding Greek mythology and the legend of the Oracle.
The plot was well intertwined with the past and the present. It's a suspenseful adventure that will have you guessing as to what happens next.
I was drawn in by all the characters, especially Alex. The author did a wonderful job with the development of these characters.
There were a few things that bothered me. First, I would have wanted more background on the secondary characters. I also felt they should have had a greater purposes within the context of the story. I liked them but needed more. Secondly, sometimes I felt the story jumped too quickly. It seemed they were in the States on minute and the next they're in Greece. Just wish some of the scenes were a bit longer. I also thought it ended too quickly. I would have liked to seen more of their "new relationship".
This was a good read.
dnf
October 14, 2014Let me say first, that the famous town of Delphi is most definitely NOT set on an island. Basic research could have told anyone that. Better to use a fictional site/city if you don't want to bother yourself with research or set limitations to your creative writing.
The 'romance' or what little of it I got to see since I DNFed it at 50%, was the usual 'fated to be mates' that almost always translates to insane attraction and not much else. The suspense part, was chaotic, disorginised, unbelievable and basically, just too complex for the reader to follow and get interested in. In fact, there seemed like parts of the story had been cut out during editing, leaving some scenes weirdly connected to one another, like how the hero came from London to find a certain man, following a vague instruction like 'go to Athens', left by a friend and no other info. All in all, too weird, too much of everyone and their mother thrown in; not recommended.
The 'romance' or what little of it I got to see since I DNFed it at 50%, was the usual 'fated to be mates' that almost always translates to insane attraction and not much else. The suspense part, was chaotic, disorginised, unbelievable and basically, just too complex for the reader to follow and get interested in. In fact, there seemed like parts of the story had been cut out during editing, leaving some scenes weirdly connected to one another, like how the hero came from London to find a certain man, following a vague instruction like 'go to Athens', left by a friend and no other info. All in all, too weird, too much of everyone and their mother thrown in; not recommended.
December 30, 2012
A well written, complicated and entertaining book with it's backbone firmly planted in Greek Mythology. Alex is a fascinating character. Found on a beach in Greece at the age of 7, covered is mystical scars and without any memory of his previous life. He's highly emphatic and doesn't know what the markings mean.
There are characters from the past and present, some good and some evil but all play an important role in moving the story forward. When Alex meets Luke there's an instant connection...a soul bond pre-destined by the gods. I like these two. They're likable guys with unique and interesting personalities. There's plenty of pain, fear, and tension and lots of suspense mixed in to make this one an attention grabber from start to finish.
I enjoyed this one and will be re-reading it again in the future.
There are characters from the past and present, some good and some evil but all play an important role in moving the story forward. When Alex meets Luke there's an instant connection...a soul bond pre-destined by the gods. I like these two. They're likable guys with unique and interesting personalities. There's plenty of pain, fear, and tension and lots of suspense mixed in to make this one an attention grabber from start to finish.
I enjoyed this one and will be re-reading it again in the future.
September 6, 2015
Loved the book. Alex was such a closed up man due to his gifts. His only consolation was Edward, but Edward was killed. (Hey, who didn't cry!) His lovers last words send him to Greece. Luke is a expert at ancient languages and meets Alex for the first time at a museum where Luke is to do a translation and Alex is stealing the scrolls Luke is to translate. This is also the night Edward is killed. Luke and Alex meet again when both are pulled into the mystery of the Oracle's return. Luke and Alex are great together. I wouldn't mind seeing more of them and of Chris and Griff:)
January 18, 2011
I won't comment on the specifics of the story because everyone of the reviews on this site have done a great job of that. It seems that this story had a little for everyone, mystery, myth, romance and tastefully done (and placed) sex scenes that give more to the story rather than sex for the specific object of sex.
I also wanted to comment on RJ's writing style. The more she writes the more sophisticated her writing style becomes. I'm looking forward to more from her and she has moved up on my "must read anything new from this author" pile :)
I also wanted to comment on RJ's writing style. The more she writes the more sophisticated her writing style becomes. I'm looking forward to more from her and she has moved up on my "must read anything new from this author" pile :)
July 25, 2019
I love R.J.Scott books and the precis of this book seemed really interesting but something did not quite gel properly with Oracle and I can not put my finger on what exactly is wrong. I wondered for a long time after getting a third of the way into the novel if maybe R.J. had come up with the story and had a ghost writer actually flesh it out because this is not the normal flowing writing style I have come to expect.
Glad to have read it BUT can not say it is one of RJ's best.
Glad to have read it BUT can not say it is one of RJ's best.
October 4, 2012
I enjoy R.J. Scott's books for their uniqueness and writing. Her worlds are each so different from each other and this was no exception, with Alex as the
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