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Federation Chronicles #5
Captivated
Vincenz Fardelle, exiled son of the Supreme Leader of the Imperialist Universe, has spent much of the last ten years working to stop the threat his father poses. But he’s not alone in his quest. Julian Marsters has lost his best friend and countless others in the war and has made vengeance his only goal. In each other, Julian and Vincenz find not only like minds, but kindred spirits. However unexpected their relationship, everything changes for Vincenz and Julian when Hannah Black comes into their lives. Having been captured and held in near total isolation by imperialist troops, their immediate response is to protect her.
Emotionally shattered but resilient, Hannah rebuilds herself. Because of the warm safety she finds in the arms of Julian—and Vincenz—she becomes someone harder, stronger and bent on preventing the Imperialists from harming anyone else.
For the two men, wrestling with their passionate feelings for Hannah is only the beginning. War is about to send all three into harm’s way and an equally dangerous secret could tear them apart.
Emotionally shattered but resilient, Hannah rebuilds herself. Because of the warm safety she finds in the arms of Julian—and Vincenz—she becomes someone harder, stronger and bent on preventing the Imperialists from harming anyone else.
For the two men, wrestling with their passionate feelings for Hannah is only the beginning. War is about to send all three into harm’s way and an equally dangerous secret could tear them apart.
326 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2012
22 people are currently reading
1063 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Dane
111 books4,996 followersLauren Dane has been writing stories since she was able to use a pencil, and before that she used to tell them to people. Of course, she still talks nonstop, and through wonderful fate and good fortune, she’s now able to share what she writes with others. It’s a wonderful life!
The basics: Lauren is a mom, a partner, a best friend and a daughter. Living in the rainy but beautiful Pacific Northwest, she spends her late evenings writing like a fiend when she finally wrestles all of her kids to bed.
The basics: Lauren is a mom, a partner, a best friend and a daughter. Living in the rainy but beautiful Pacific Northwest, she spends her late evenings writing like a fiend when she finally wrestles all of her kids to bed.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
May 2, 2012
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: 4.5/5
Vincenz looked into Julian’s face and, Julian knew, saw everything. “I’m sorry.”
Julian had to close his eyes a moment. “You can make it better.”
Vincenz’s expression changed and he got that little smile. That smile drove Julian to distraction. So fucking sexy.
Vincenz and Julian stole my heart at the end of MESMERIZED. There had been hints that these two men had something more than just friendship between them, and in one quiet, quick scene we get to see the connection they have as their story, along with Hannah’s, is set up. The Federation’s fight against the Imperialists is coming down to the end and Vincenz, Julian and Hannah find themselves right in the middle of it as they rush to stop the creation and disbursement of a virus that Ciro Fardelle wants to unleash and cause mass casualties. The fight against Ciro comes to a conclusion in this book, but what kept me turning the pages at a fast pace was the relationship between the three leads. I loved everything about each of them and their interactions together. Vincenz rescues Hannah at the end of MESMERIZED and she’s in a bad place. She was being held by the Imperialists for almost a year and she was completely isolated. I never got the sense that she was beaten, at least not regularly if it happened a time or two, but they withheld all touch, all talk and when they needed to get to her for any kind of testing, she was gassed and knocked out. She’s a mental mess when Vincenz finds her and understandably, she doesn’t want to let him go. Vincenz and Julian each form an instant attachment to her and it goes unsaid initially that she’s theirs; theirs to take care of, help recover and to love.
I loved how the dynamic of this relationship happened. Julian and Vincenz are together and committed to each other at the start of the story. Julian is still struggling with moving past the death of his best friend and only family he’s known in a long time, Marame, and being with Vincenz helps fill the holes in his life and heart. In Hannah, they both found a woman who needs them badly. They’re drawn to her and the one thing that made this all work for me was the passage of time. Hannah just doesn’t heal up right quick and jump into bed with these two alpha males. Months of recovery pass and she slowly starts to come back to herself through many medical treatments and the constant love of these two men. When they’re all finally ready to take that next step, it ended up being a very sexy scene with these two men who each like to give the orders and Hannah has gone from feeling safe with them to feeling desire, something she thought she’d never be able to feel again.
There are numerous sex scenes scattered throughout the book, most of the time it’s with all three leads, a few times it’s with just two, but all the scenes were filled with emotion and I really enjoyed how Lauren Dane brought this relationship to life.
Marame had balanced Julian. Her personality and the way they’d worked together had kept him from veering too far into the darkness. But then she was gone and Julian had no one left to stop that. No balance to keep him from tipping into all that rage and restless frustration.
And Hannah saw that. Knew it when most didn’t get Julian’s change at all.
“I’m sorry you both lost her.”
He hugged her, content to simply be with her that way.
“But I’m not sorry you found me.”
He tightened his hold, burying his face in her hair. “You’re the best thing I’ve ever found.”
The big build up over the course of the series has been bringing down Ciro Fadelle, Vincenz’s father who he was forced to flee from years ago. There is zero love between the two and all Vincenz wants to do is end his father’s life and save his mother’s. It felt like everything had been counting down to this one moment; this one final fight between Ciro and the Federation and it was a bit of a letdown. The suspense definitely comes from Vincenz, Julian and Hannah’s preparations and travel back to Vincenz’s home, but the confrontation really doesn’t happen. I will say, without spoiling anything, that I do think it’s bittersweet justice at the end, but it really felt over before it started and that’s the only reason I knocked my rating down slightly.
My final rating is 4 1/2 big stars. The relationship is the driving force of this story and it delivers. I couldn’t get enough of Vincenz and Julian together and seeing how sweet they were to Hannah when she was recovering and how protective they became, it’s hard not to fall in love with these two men. I was hesitant to read this series initially. I wasn’t sure if the futuristic sci/fi feel would really work for me, but I should have never doubted Lauren Dane and the way she writes relationships. I’ve only read the Phantom Corp portion of this series and I do think it’s important to read at least the two books (INSATIABLE & MESMERIZED) prior to this one to fully get a grasp on the world and the set up for these characters. It doesn’t matter what setting Dane gives us, the characters she creates are engaging and loving and so easy to fall for, no matter if they’re traveling through space and portals or sitting in downtown Seattle in a tattoo shop. Once I got the basics of this world down, it became all about the people and I was drawn in. I highly recommend giving this series a shot.
Blog rating: 4.5/5
Vincenz looked into Julian’s face and, Julian knew, saw everything. “I’m sorry.”
Julian had to close his eyes a moment. “You can make it better.”
Vincenz’s expression changed and he got that little smile. That smile drove Julian to distraction. So fucking sexy.
Vincenz and Julian stole my heart at the end of MESMERIZED. There had been hints that these two men had something more than just friendship between them, and in one quiet, quick scene we get to see the connection they have as their story, along with Hannah’s, is set up. The Federation’s fight against the Imperialists is coming down to the end and Vincenz, Julian and Hannah find themselves right in the middle of it as they rush to stop the creation and disbursement of a virus that Ciro Fardelle wants to unleash and cause mass casualties. The fight against Ciro comes to a conclusion in this book, but what kept me turning the pages at a fast pace was the relationship between the three leads. I loved everything about each of them and their interactions together. Vincenz rescues Hannah at the end of MESMERIZED and she’s in a bad place. She was being held by the Imperialists for almost a year and she was completely isolated. I never got the sense that she was beaten, at least not regularly if it happened a time or two, but they withheld all touch, all talk and when they needed to get to her for any kind of testing, she was gassed and knocked out. She’s a mental mess when Vincenz finds her and understandably, she doesn’t want to let him go. Vincenz and Julian each form an instant attachment to her and it goes unsaid initially that she’s theirs; theirs to take care of, help recover and to love.
I loved how the dynamic of this relationship happened. Julian and Vincenz are together and committed to each other at the start of the story. Julian is still struggling with moving past the death of his best friend and only family he’s known in a long time, Marame, and being with Vincenz helps fill the holes in his life and heart. In Hannah, they both found a woman who needs them badly. They’re drawn to her and the one thing that made this all work for me was the passage of time. Hannah just doesn’t heal up right quick and jump into bed with these two alpha males. Months of recovery pass and she slowly starts to come back to herself through many medical treatments and the constant love of these two men. When they’re all finally ready to take that next step, it ended up being a very sexy scene with these two men who each like to give the orders and Hannah has gone from feeling safe with them to feeling desire, something she thought she’d never be able to feel again.
There are numerous sex scenes scattered throughout the book, most of the time it’s with all three leads, a few times it’s with just two, but all the scenes were filled with emotion and I really enjoyed how Lauren Dane brought this relationship to life.
Marame had balanced Julian. Her personality and the way they’d worked together had kept him from veering too far into the darkness. But then she was gone and Julian had no one left to stop that. No balance to keep him from tipping into all that rage and restless frustration.
And Hannah saw that. Knew it when most didn’t get Julian’s change at all.
“I’m sorry you both lost her.”
He hugged her, content to simply be with her that way.
“But I’m not sorry you found me.”
He tightened his hold, burying his face in her hair. “You’re the best thing I’ve ever found.”
The big build up over the course of the series has been bringing down Ciro Fadelle, Vincenz’s father who he was forced to flee from years ago. There is zero love between the two and all Vincenz wants to do is end his father’s life and save his mother’s. It felt like everything had been counting down to this one moment; this one final fight between Ciro and the Federation and it was a bit of a letdown. The suspense definitely comes from Vincenz, Julian and Hannah’s preparations and travel back to Vincenz’s home, but the confrontation really doesn’t happen. I will say, without spoiling anything, that I do think it’s bittersweet justice at the end, but it really felt over before it started and that’s the only reason I knocked my rating down slightly.
My final rating is 4 1/2 big stars. The relationship is the driving force of this story and it delivers. I couldn’t get enough of Vincenz and Julian together and seeing how sweet they were to Hannah when she was recovering and how protective they became, it’s hard not to fall in love with these two men. I was hesitant to read this series initially. I wasn’t sure if the futuristic sci/fi feel would really work for me, but I should have never doubted Lauren Dane and the way she writes relationships. I’ve only read the Phantom Corp portion of this series and I do think it’s important to read at least the two books (INSATIABLE & MESMERIZED) prior to this one to fully get a grasp on the world and the set up for these characters. It doesn’t matter what setting Dane gives us, the characters she creates are engaging and loving and so easy to fall for, no matter if they’re traveling through space and portals or sitting in downtown Seattle in a tattoo shop. Once I got the basics of this world down, it became all about the people and I was drawn in. I highly recommend giving this series a shot.
May 3, 2012
It has been too long since my last time with this series Phantom Corps and I had forgotten place names. The futuristic setting and storyline also took a while to come back to me. So very confusing at first. This is a mmf story. Vincenz Fardelle and Julian Marsters were already in a steamy relationship before they saved the scientist Hannah Black from inprisonment. As they both helped to nurse her mentally and physically back to health the men gradually included her into the relationship and later into their missions. Each character has big problems from the past to over come. Each has a missing part to their life. They soon discover the only posssible fullfillment is with all three in a life for future happiness. It was my personal hangups that detracted from the book for me. Others who enjoy mm reading will enjoy this book. In real life I have no problem with it at all, just reading about it does nothing for me.
January 8, 2021
This picks up where the last book left off (after Hannah's rescue). Addie and Roman have a little page time; they are happy and she's had her baby. Generally not a big fan of ménage, but this one was well done. Vincenz and Julian are already in a relationship when Hannah enters the picture. There is no jealousy or one-upmanship. While there is plenty of sexy time, this was a little more serious with Hannah's trauma, the war. Things do come to a satisfying conclusion.
April 27, 2012
Originally posted at WickedLilPixie Reviews
I don't read blurbs, and while I am familiar with Lauren Dane's other series like the Brown Siblings and Bound By Magick, this was a new-to-me series. I jumped at the chance to win an ARC of it, and I did! I knew what I was in for, familiar with her other series, and boy was I not let down. And now that I have that over with, let me tell you about Captivated...
Hot... hot.... Hot... ! Did I mention this read is muy caliente?! Holy hot cheese on a hot cracker, on a hot plate, on a hot day. By the first 20 pages, I was already fanning myself. Not exaggerating, she takes the gloves off and shows you just what a ride you are in for from the very start, and I looved it.
Captivated is a love story where a loving and passionate couple find a third partner and the three become a solid unconditional relationship. And, it is my first m/m/f romance to ever read (I had no idea because as I mentioned above, I like to dive in to a book without reading a blurb about it). Vincenz and Julian are truly dynamic in their ability to nurture one another, so when they find themselves both drawn to wanting to protect Hannah, it fees very organic. I automatically fell in love with these two heroes. The mutual respect and admiration between the two of them, and then with Hannah was beautifully done and why Captivated worked for me.
After a year of torture, the heroine Hannah is scared of her own shadow and feels safest sitting in a corner with the wall behind her back. From the moment of rescue, she immediately clings to Vincenz as her protector, and gradually finds comfort and safety in both Julian and Vincenz together, and they home they open to her. She agrees to undergo treatment that will help speed up the process of healing emotionally and mentally from the ordeal, and they help her find her way back to who she was. Julian and Vincenz both immediately feel as though she fits in to their family and home, and they are very honest and open with her on that.
---
"I know you're scared." Julian stood and moved to her. He slid his palms from her shoulders down her arms, holding her hips. "And I can't tell you not to be. I'd be scared too. But you're not broken. And you're brave. So very brave."
Momentarily Vincenz was there hugging her from the side. "We'll be with you. Every step of the way."
---
The emotional foundation is laid so well that when the physical aspects are added, it is nothing other than intense and smoldering. The characters are very complex and interesting and I couldn't put the story down. Captivated is the third book in her Phantom Corps series and the fifth book in her The Federation Series, but I did not feel like I missed out by picking up here, as it read beautifully as a standalone novel. It definitely made me want to go back and read the first books in the series and I am looking forward to it!
I don't read blurbs, and while I am familiar with Lauren Dane's other series like the Brown Siblings and Bound By Magick, this was a new-to-me series. I jumped at the chance to win an ARC of it, and I did! I knew what I was in for, familiar with her other series, and boy was I not let down. And now that I have that over with, let me tell you about Captivated...
Hot... hot.... Hot... ! Did I mention this read is muy caliente?! Holy hot cheese on a hot cracker, on a hot plate, on a hot day. By the first 20 pages, I was already fanning myself. Not exaggerating, she takes the gloves off and shows you just what a ride you are in for from the very start, and I looved it.
Captivated is a love story where a loving and passionate couple find a third partner and the three become a solid unconditional relationship. And, it is my first m/m/f romance to ever read (I had no idea because as I mentioned above, I like to dive in to a book without reading a blurb about it). Vincenz and Julian are truly dynamic in their ability to nurture one another, so when they find themselves both drawn to wanting to protect Hannah, it fees very organic. I automatically fell in love with these two heroes. The mutual respect and admiration between the two of them, and then with Hannah was beautifully done and why Captivated worked for me.
After a year of torture, the heroine Hannah is scared of her own shadow and feels safest sitting in a corner with the wall behind her back. From the moment of rescue, she immediately clings to Vincenz as her protector, and gradually finds comfort and safety in both Julian and Vincenz together, and they home they open to her. She agrees to undergo treatment that will help speed up the process of healing emotionally and mentally from the ordeal, and they help her find her way back to who she was. Julian and Vincenz both immediately feel as though she fits in to their family and home, and they are very honest and open with her on that.
---
"I know you're scared." Julian stood and moved to her. He slid his palms from her shoulders down her arms, holding her hips. "And I can't tell you not to be. I'd be scared too. But you're not broken. And you're brave. So very brave."
Momentarily Vincenz was there hugging her from the side. "We'll be with you. Every step of the way."
---
The emotional foundation is laid so well that when the physical aspects are added, it is nothing other than intense and smoldering. The characters are very complex and interesting and I couldn't put the story down. Captivated is the third book in her Phantom Corps series and the fifth book in her The Federation Series, but I did not feel like I missed out by picking up here, as it read beautifully as a standalone novel. It definitely made me want to go back and read the first books in the series and I am looking forward to it!
May 23, 2012
Captivated by Lauren Dane is hot, hot, hot!
Vincenz Fardelle is a Phantom Corps operate and son of the Imperium Universe Leader, who he escaped at a young age to join the Federated Universe and the fight for freedom. Riddled with guilt for the sins of his father, Vincenz works to put a stop to his father’s reign.
Julian Marsters was orphaned as a child and a young trouble maker when he joined Phantom Corps, since then he has found his place in the world fighting for a better future. But when his best friend is killed Julian sinks into a pit of despair and surprisingly, the one to pull him out is Vincenz. Together they find an unexpected attraction and an emotional connection.
When Vincenz rescues Hannah Black from an Imperium lab though, their relationship drastically changes. Instantly protective of the traumatized young women, Vin and Julian bring Hannah into their home and with their support Hannah slowly starts to heal emotionally and physically from her eleven month captivation.
But as Hannah heals and finds a future with Julian and Vincenz the war takes a deadly turn and Hannah is the only one who can stop this new and dangerous threat. Can this trio overcome the ghosts of their past to save the ones they love and the Federated Universe?
Captivated is a tale of two incredibly sexy and alpha men who have a committed and loving relationship with each other who then open up their arms to a broken woman and bring her back to life. When Vincenz and Julian first meet Hannah their relationship with her is purely platonic and they work with her to heal and overcome her emotional trauma. This is my first story where two main male characters have had a sexual relationship outside of one with a woman and I surprisingly enjoyed it immensely. The relationship Julian and Vin share was masterfully written and beautiful, they captured my heart right away. As Hannah slowly heals and finds that spark of life within herself the trio’s relationship dynamics change. I loved how they came together slowly and naturally, it never felt rushed. Hannah goes from being a broken shell of a woman to a strong, smart and endearing character with the support of Vin and Julian. And in return she helps them face their demons and feel worthy of love. Even though three may be an odd number the balance between them was perfect. Not to say there aren’t any snags, when you have two over-protective males and a woman who is determined to be strong on her own you know they are going to butt heads on occasion. But the chemistry between them sizzle, and Captivated has frequent and graphic sex scenes between Julian, Vincenz and Hannah. And let me tell you, they are each panty drenching! M/M, M/F and M/F/M. This one is off- the-charts hot, my friends.
Being my first read from Lauren Dane and the Phantom Corps series I had no understanding of this futuristic world, the technology or the lingo. There wasn’t an introduction to it or any side characters so I know I was missing out on some important details on the world and the war taking place, but surprisingly that had no affect on my over-all enjoyment of the story. The characters of Julian, Vincenz and Hannah and their relationship ensnarled me so completely it wasn’t an issue for me. I do have the previous two books on my shelf though and plan to read them as soon as I can, and I look forward to more from this series.
Lauren Dane provides readers with an emotionally packed, sexually explosive and facinating story that is sure to hook you from the start!
*A recommended Ménage read! (M/M/F)
Vincenz Fardelle is a Phantom Corps operate and son of the Imperium Universe Leader, who he escaped at a young age to join the Federated Universe and the fight for freedom. Riddled with guilt for the sins of his father, Vincenz works to put a stop to his father’s reign.
Julian Marsters was orphaned as a child and a young trouble maker when he joined Phantom Corps, since then he has found his place in the world fighting for a better future. But when his best friend is killed Julian sinks into a pit of despair and surprisingly, the one to pull him out is Vincenz. Together they find an unexpected attraction and an emotional connection.
When Vincenz rescues Hannah Black from an Imperium lab though, their relationship drastically changes. Instantly protective of the traumatized young women, Vin and Julian bring Hannah into their home and with their support Hannah slowly starts to heal emotionally and physically from her eleven month captivation.
But as Hannah heals and finds a future with Julian and Vincenz the war takes a deadly turn and Hannah is the only one who can stop this new and dangerous threat. Can this trio overcome the ghosts of their past to save the ones they love and the Federated Universe?
Captivated is a tale of two incredibly sexy and alpha men who have a committed and loving relationship with each other who then open up their arms to a broken woman and bring her back to life. When Vincenz and Julian first meet Hannah their relationship with her is purely platonic and they work with her to heal and overcome her emotional trauma. This is my first story where two main male characters have had a sexual relationship outside of one with a woman and I surprisingly enjoyed it immensely. The relationship Julian and Vin share was masterfully written and beautiful, they captured my heart right away. As Hannah slowly heals and finds that spark of life within herself the trio’s relationship dynamics change. I loved how they came together slowly and naturally, it never felt rushed. Hannah goes from being a broken shell of a woman to a strong, smart and endearing character with the support of Vin and Julian. And in return she helps them face their demons and feel worthy of love. Even though three may be an odd number the balance between them was perfect. Not to say there aren’t any snags, when you have two over-protective males and a woman who is determined to be strong on her own you know they are going to butt heads on occasion. But the chemistry between them sizzle, and Captivated has frequent and graphic sex scenes between Julian, Vincenz and Hannah. And let me tell you, they are each panty drenching! M/M, M/F and M/F/M. This one is off- the-charts hot, my friends.
Being my first read from Lauren Dane and the Phantom Corps series I had no understanding of this futuristic world, the technology or the lingo. There wasn’t an introduction to it or any side characters so I know I was missing out on some important details on the world and the war taking place, but surprisingly that had no affect on my over-all enjoyment of the story. The characters of Julian, Vincenz and Hannah and their relationship ensnarled me so completely it wasn’t an issue for me. I do have the previous two books on my shelf though and plan to read them as soon as I can, and I look forward to more from this series.
Lauren Dane provides readers with an emotionally packed, sexually explosive and facinating story that is sure to hook you from the start!
*A recommended Ménage read! (M/M/F)
May 3, 2012
Full review can be seen at Seductive Musings.
I’ll start with a warning, this books is smoking hot! You’ll need to keep clean, dry panties on hand because you’re going to have to change them multiple times while reading. The sex is frequent, graphic and steamy.
I had no idea what I was getting into with this book. I started reading and quickly realized that Julian and Vincenz were a couple, then Hannah entered the scene and I realized I was going to be reading my first menage relationship. That was a surprise, a good one as it turned out.
When Hannah enters the book she is a prisoner, she had been kept in isolation for a year and was tortured during the time. To say she is barely functional and emotionally broken is an understatement. It takes months for her to begin to emerge from that state and as she did I realized how much I loved her character. She is smart, has an endearing vulnerability, and an incredible amount of courage. She’s everything I secretly wish I could be.
Vincenz is the one to discover Hannah in the prison. He sees what has been done to this woman and becomes fiercely protective. He’s caring but tough, the perfect alpha male. He has a complicated past and had to make some tough choices in order to do the right thing. I love him for that.
Julian came from nothing but managed to overcome his past. He has a tough guy exterior but underneath he is emotionally damaged yet so loving. He doesn’t give his love easily but once he gives it he is loyal and protective.
Vincenz and Julian are in a relationship when the book begins. It’s a committed, strong and loving relationship. Hannah comes to live with them and in this environment she begins to heal. It’s purely a platonic love between the men and Hannah in the beginning and I was thankful for that. It gave Hannah time to heal and the support to do it with no other complications. Strong bonds among all three of them develop and slowly transition into another type of relationship. They all have some personal demons they are trying to work through. It’s almost as if they can see and understand the pain the others are feeling and that is what draws them together. I loved how the relationships developed over the course of months and they never felt rushed. At times the relationships seemed to meld together a little too seamlessly but the romance is so hot that it doesn’t really matter.
The backdrop of the story involves a war between universes which is fabulous on its own. Vincenz and Julian are soldiers in the war. That helped to integrate the war and romance really well. It introduced the obstacles and challenges the romantic relationship was missing on its own which made the overall story much more interesting.
This is book 3 in the Phantom Corps series and the first one I’ve read. That made it a little difficult for me to get familiar with the world and the war taking place. The side characters were thrown into the story with no introduction which told me I should have met them in previous books. As much as I enjoyed the book, I know I didn’t pick up on everything. I will definitely get book one, read the series in order and then read this book again. I think on the second reading I’ll enjoy it even more.
I’ll start with a warning, this books is smoking hot! You’ll need to keep clean, dry panties on hand because you’re going to have to change them multiple times while reading. The sex is frequent, graphic and steamy.
I had no idea what I was getting into with this book. I started reading and quickly realized that Julian and Vincenz were a couple, then Hannah entered the scene and I realized I was going to be reading my first menage relationship. That was a surprise, a good one as it turned out.
When Hannah enters the book she is a prisoner, she had been kept in isolation for a year and was tortured during the time. To say she is barely functional and emotionally broken is an understatement. It takes months for her to begin to emerge from that state and as she did I realized how much I loved her character. She is smart, has an endearing vulnerability, and an incredible amount of courage. She’s everything I secretly wish I could be.
Vincenz is the one to discover Hannah in the prison. He sees what has been done to this woman and becomes fiercely protective. He’s caring but tough, the perfect alpha male. He has a complicated past and had to make some tough choices in order to do the right thing. I love him for that.
Julian came from nothing but managed to overcome his past. He has a tough guy exterior but underneath he is emotionally damaged yet so loving. He doesn’t give his love easily but once he gives it he is loyal and protective.
Vincenz and Julian are in a relationship when the book begins. It’s a committed, strong and loving relationship. Hannah comes to live with them and in this environment she begins to heal. It’s purely a platonic love between the men and Hannah in the beginning and I was thankful for that. It gave Hannah time to heal and the support to do it with no other complications. Strong bonds among all three of them develop and slowly transition into another type of relationship. They all have some personal demons they are trying to work through. It’s almost as if they can see and understand the pain the others are feeling and that is what draws them together. I loved how the relationships developed over the course of months and they never felt rushed. At times the relationships seemed to meld together a little too seamlessly but the romance is so hot that it doesn’t really matter.
The backdrop of the story involves a war between universes which is fabulous on its own. Vincenz and Julian are soldiers in the war. That helped to integrate the war and romance really well. It introduced the obstacles and challenges the romantic relationship was missing on its own which made the overall story much more interesting.
This is book 3 in the Phantom Corps series and the first one I’ve read. That made it a little difficult for me to get familiar with the world and the war taking place. The side characters were thrown into the story with no introduction which told me I should have met them in previous books. As much as I enjoyed the book, I know I didn’t pick up on everything. I will definitely get book one, read the series in order and then read this book again. I think on the second reading I’ll enjoy it even more.
May 22, 2012
So here's the thing about this book. There was no way I wasn't going to love it, because of two legitimate reasons and one that is completely shallow… although your definition of legitimate and mine may differ slightly, so I'll kindly ask you not to judge me.
1. I love what is referred to in fanfic circles as hurt/comfort stories. In this one we have Hannah, who is basically tortured and then isolated for almost a year and who starts out extremely broken, coming into her own because Vincenz and Julian are there to love and protect her and keep the nightmares at bay. And they are so good at it. I love nothing more than reading about alpha men brought to sweet tenderness over a woman.
2. I love erotic romances in which two men who are in love with each other fall for the same woman. I'm not sure why this arrangement works so well for me, but it does, and OMG Vincenz and Julian are so hot together, and when they realize they're both in love with Hannah, the chemistry was sizzling.
3. I just love the name Julian, OK? It is one of my favorite male names, so I am automatically favorably disposed to characters named Julian. (See the statement above where I said not to judge!)
So all that said, I was a little anxious about reading this book. It is, from what I understand, the fifth book in a series. But I was able to follow along when I read the sample, and I thought that, when I downloaded the book, the author did a good job of filling in the holes so I could keep up. I'm sure my reading of the book would have been richer had I read the previous four books, and I'm sure I also will, but I didn't miss out.
I just loved these characters. I loved that they were all broken in their own ways, and by the end, I believed in their happily ever after. I also loved that none of them were perfect. All of them had their flaws, and none of them will ever be completely fixed, but I think they'll keep growing together in really positive ways.
Also, I really appreciated the fact that the romance builds over months and we get to see the gradual falling in love that these three characters do. I've read too many amateur writing efforts in which an author decides that sex magically cures everything, and Lauren Dane did not do that. For Hannah, sex did heal her in some ways, but I think those were unique to her as a character and they worked for me. Though, that said, readers who don't enjoy light bondage or male/male sexual interaction might not appreciate the book's scenes the way I did.
If you're a fan of hard sci-fi, you are clearly not going to find it here, this being an erotic romance. If I have any quibbles, it's that I had a few "Huh?" moments regarding some of the world-building, but those passed quickly and I was sucked into the story completely, so I didn't much notice.
This book was absolutely wonderful. It's a sexy read and a sweet love story all at once, and that is really the best you can expect in a romance novel.
1. I love what is referred to in fanfic circles as hurt/comfort stories. In this one we have Hannah, who is basically tortured and then isolated for almost a year and who starts out extremely broken, coming into her own because Vincenz and Julian are there to love and protect her and keep the nightmares at bay. And they are so good at it. I love nothing more than reading about alpha men brought to sweet tenderness over a woman.
2. I love erotic romances in which two men who are in love with each other fall for the same woman. I'm not sure why this arrangement works so well for me, but it does, and OMG Vincenz and Julian are so hot together, and when they realize they're both in love with Hannah, the chemistry was sizzling.
3. I just love the name Julian, OK? It is one of my favorite male names, so I am automatically favorably disposed to characters named Julian. (See the statement above where I said not to judge!)
So all that said, I was a little anxious about reading this book. It is, from what I understand, the fifth book in a series. But I was able to follow along when I read the sample, and I thought that, when I downloaded the book, the author did a good job of filling in the holes so I could keep up. I'm sure my reading of the book would have been richer had I read the previous four books, and I'm sure I also will, but I didn't miss out.
I just loved these characters. I loved that they were all broken in their own ways, and by the end, I believed in their happily ever after. I also loved that none of them were perfect. All of them had their flaws, and none of them will ever be completely fixed, but I think they'll keep growing together in really positive ways.
Also, I really appreciated the fact that the romance builds over months and we get to see the gradual falling in love that these three characters do. I've read too many amateur writing efforts in which an author decides that sex magically cures everything, and Lauren Dane did not do that. For Hannah, sex did heal her in some ways, but I think those were unique to her as a character and they worked for me. Though, that said, readers who don't enjoy light bondage or male/male sexual interaction might not appreciate the book's scenes the way I did.
If you're a fan of hard sci-fi, you are clearly not going to find it here, this being an erotic romance. If I have any quibbles, it's that I had a few "Huh?" moments regarding some of the world-building, but those passed quickly and I was sucked into the story completely, so I didn't much notice.
This book was absolutely wonderful. It's a sexy read and a sweet love story all at once, and that is really the best you can expect in a romance novel.
July 25, 2012
With the introduction of Hannah at the end of the last book I was intrigued to read this one. I wanted to know how Hannah was going to come back to life after her ordeal. When I heard that with this book Hannah was going to be paired with an existing couple, a male/male one that I liked, I couldn't wait to read the book to see how this would all work out.
With Vincenz's treatment of Hannah, right from the start, it was hard not to love him. He was so gentle with her and knew that he was her touch stone. He stood over her, figured out what she needed and gave it to her, and never begrudged her the need of his time and comfort. Julian was the same way with Hannah as soon as he met her. Both of the men were so instantly protective and aggressive against anyone that wanted something from her. Even with spending all this time with Hannah they still found time for themselves. It was great seeing their couple relationship evolve to include Hannah, as it seemed to sneak up on all three of them. I loved how Hannah saw them having sex and it seemed to wake something up within herself. Yes she was turned on by them, yet she would have done nothing to interfere with their relationship had not one of the boys made the first move. I loved seeing all three of them navigate their new found relationship. At one time or another each of them managed to piss the other off, how they dealt with it was funny once they realized they were in the wrong.
Hannah, herself, was interesting to watch through the book as she got stronger and started to become more of who she was. Yes there were setbacks, but they were minor, and her boys were there to help her.
I liked seeing the old characters and how they all came together for the final battle. Commander Ellis surprised me by his gentle treatment of Hannah. At times I wonder if he has some sort of second sight with what he said and maneuvered behind the scenes. I also wonder if he has a big romance on the horizon, I certainly hope so.
I loved the ending! Thought it was great in two ways, one that the big bad got defeated, even though there were some bitter sweet parts. The second part was that our 3 people got a great HEA!
With Vincenz's treatment of Hannah, right from the start, it was hard not to love him. He was so gentle with her and knew that he was her touch stone. He stood over her, figured out what she needed and gave it to her, and never begrudged her the need of his time and comfort. Julian was the same way with Hannah as soon as he met her. Both of the men were so instantly protective and aggressive against anyone that wanted something from her. Even with spending all this time with Hannah they still found time for themselves. It was great seeing their couple relationship evolve to include Hannah, as it seemed to sneak up on all three of them. I loved how Hannah saw them having sex and it seemed to wake something up within herself. Yes she was turned on by them, yet she would have done nothing to interfere with their relationship had not one of the boys made the first move. I loved seeing all three of them navigate their new found relationship. At one time or another each of them managed to piss the other off, how they dealt with it was funny once they realized they were in the wrong.
Hannah, herself, was interesting to watch through the book as she got stronger and started to become more of who she was. Yes there were setbacks, but they were minor, and her boys were there to help her.
I liked seeing the old characters and how they all came together for the final battle. Commander Ellis surprised me by his gentle treatment of Hannah. At times I wonder if he has some sort of second sight with what he said and maneuvered behind the scenes. I also wonder if he has a big romance on the horizon, I certainly hope so.
I loved the ending! Thought it was great in two ways, one that the big bad got defeated, even though there were some bitter sweet parts. The second part was that our 3 people got a great HEA!
May 1, 2012
Posted on Under the Covers
Lauren Dane crafts an emotionally-charged story that brings a broken woman named Hannah Black from the confining net that total isolation by the Imperialist troops have casted over her. Eleven months she was held captive, but when Vincenz Fardelle rescues her from them, readers see the spine of steel hidden beneath the abused woman.
It was easy to like Hannah. Despite being emotionally sensitive, she is a strong woman who does what is necessary to survive and return to her previous state. She undergoes treatment that is uncomfortable for her, but with the help of Vincenz and Julian Marsters, the slow steps they take towards recovery have shown her resilience and a core strength that cannot be denied.
Vincenz and Julian are also great characters that show sympathy and kindness towards Hannah. But they are also very passionate people. It was clearly evident that Vincenz and Julian love each other and Dane does a great job of making that known on the first few pages of this book. Dane then adds Hannah into that mix and it was interesting to see how this protectiveness extended towards her too. I must comment on the sex scenes in this book. Dane incorporates a variety of sex scenes – there are M/M scenes, M/F/M, and M/F scenes. There’s a lot of goodness in it, but I know some are more hesitant about M/M scenes so this is a fair warning. For me, this was a perfect balance. I loved that Dane did scenes with Hannah and the men separately as well as together because it shows how well they are together as a threesome.
Again, the worldbuilding is interesting and engaging, giving the story a natural push as the war approaches and Hannah takes a more active part in the role. I have to say that I was really impressed by this book and hope to read more from Dane because not only was it emotionally gripping, but it was hella hot too!
*ARC provided by author
Lauren Dane crafts an emotionally-charged story that brings a broken woman named Hannah Black from the confining net that total isolation by the Imperialist troops have casted over her. Eleven months she was held captive, but when Vincenz Fardelle rescues her from them, readers see the spine of steel hidden beneath the abused woman.
It was easy to like Hannah. Despite being emotionally sensitive, she is a strong woman who does what is necessary to survive and return to her previous state. She undergoes treatment that is uncomfortable for her, but with the help of Vincenz and Julian Marsters, the slow steps they take towards recovery have shown her resilience and a core strength that cannot be denied.
Vincenz and Julian are also great characters that show sympathy and kindness towards Hannah. But they are also very passionate people. It was clearly evident that Vincenz and Julian love each other and Dane does a great job of making that known on the first few pages of this book. Dane then adds Hannah into that mix and it was interesting to see how this protectiveness extended towards her too. I must comment on the sex scenes in this book. Dane incorporates a variety of sex scenes – there are M/M scenes, M/F/M, and M/F scenes. There’s a lot of goodness in it, but I know some are more hesitant about M/M scenes so this is a fair warning. For me, this was a perfect balance. I loved that Dane did scenes with Hannah and the men separately as well as together because it shows how well they are together as a threesome.
Again, the worldbuilding is interesting and engaging, giving the story a natural push as the war approaches and Hannah takes a more active part in the role. I have to say that I was really impressed by this book and hope to read more from Dane because not only was it emotionally gripping, but it was hella hot too!
*ARC provided by author
May 6, 2012
Captivated by Lauren Dane
Paranormal Romance –May 1st, 2012
4 ½ stars
Lauren Dane does it again in her scorching HOT futuristic series. When a damsel in distress is saved by not one but two hunky men!
Hannah can barely remember her name. Targeted and thrown into isolation, beaten and tortured. She doesn’t know why she was taken. Nearly broken, she is saved by a Phantom Corps officer, Vincenz Fardelle. She holds onto him as her life line and Vincenz finds himself strangely nurturing towards her. When she reacts violently to strangers, he decides to take care of her and have her stay with him and his boyfriend Julian Marsters to recuperate. But as Hannah recovers so does her awareness of them as men and when she spies them having sex she is totally turned on! And matters heat up as Vincenz and Julian find themselves attracted to Hannah as she gets stronger. Inevitably, they soon find themselves in inviting her into their bedroom. As they find a new love together they try to piece together why Hannah was kidnapped and get involved in a dangerous op to rescue Vincenz’s mother.
This steamy futuristic book will be sure to satisfy fans of paranormal and blazing hot romance. Vincenz and Julian make a steamy couple and there are M/M scenes and as well as M/F/M scenes. While some authors just throw in gratuitous sex scenes, Lauren Dane’s are handled so deftly they felt very natural, loving and sensual. I loved how Vincenz rescues Hannah and when Vincenz and Julian both cherish and nurture her to health while still treating her with respect. Hannah starts out very fragile but courageously recovers with their compassion and steadfastness. I also enjoyed the futuristic world. The author keeps adding depth and dimension so that it keeps making it fresh and involving.
Sensual scenes and two knights in shining armor make for a spectacularly sexy read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Paranormal Romance –May 1st, 2012
4 ½ stars
Lauren Dane does it again in her scorching HOT futuristic series. When a damsel in distress is saved by not one but two hunky men!
Hannah can barely remember her name. Targeted and thrown into isolation, beaten and tortured. She doesn’t know why she was taken. Nearly broken, she is saved by a Phantom Corps officer, Vincenz Fardelle. She holds onto him as her life line and Vincenz finds himself strangely nurturing towards her. When she reacts violently to strangers, he decides to take care of her and have her stay with him and his boyfriend Julian Marsters to recuperate. But as Hannah recovers so does her awareness of them as men and when she spies them having sex she is totally turned on! And matters heat up as Vincenz and Julian find themselves attracted to Hannah as she gets stronger. Inevitably, they soon find themselves in inviting her into their bedroom. As they find a new love together they try to piece together why Hannah was kidnapped and get involved in a dangerous op to rescue Vincenz’s mother.
This steamy futuristic book will be sure to satisfy fans of paranormal and blazing hot romance. Vincenz and Julian make a steamy couple and there are M/M scenes and as well as M/F/M scenes. While some authors just throw in gratuitous sex scenes, Lauren Dane’s are handled so deftly they felt very natural, loving and sensual. I loved how Vincenz rescues Hannah and when Vincenz and Julian both cherish and nurture her to health while still treating her with respect. Hannah starts out very fragile but courageously recovers with their compassion and steadfastness. I also enjoyed the futuristic world. The author keeps adding depth and dimension so that it keeps making it fresh and involving.
Sensual scenes and two knights in shining armor make for a spectacularly sexy read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
September 21, 2014
4.5 This was pretty great. I have to say that I did not read the first two books but even so I was not confused at all. I got the feeling that Julian and Vin's relationship didn't really blossom until the end of the second book anyway and from what I read it was only a kiss. So it felt like their relationship developed and bloomed in this book for sure. Those two alpha males were so damn hot! I loved their intimate moments whether it was a kiss or a hug, hell even just the looks that they gave each other.
Vin rescued Hannah who had been held captive for about a year. She was like a scared animal. It was really heart breaking to read about how she coped with her recovery. The rocking and the curling up in a corner and her need for that blanket or Julian's t-shirt. But these two warriors helped her in so many ways. The amount of love and compassion was so beautiful to me. They were so protective to the point of over protective. I loved reading how Hannah started to heal and yes even at the end she still had her issues but it was a thing of beauty how she would overcome her fears and face danger and even allow herself to fall in love with Vin and Julian.
I had to take off a star because the fight at the end. It felt like all this build up to find ? and then conquer the tyrant to hurt so many people. But it was kinda a let down. There wasn't really a fight and the end came and it was so simple and so fast. Too simple and fast. I was hoping for this showdown or something and then well.. nothing. But aside from that I will be seeking out the other two books. Loved all the action and all the sexy times between these three.
Vin rescued Hannah who had been held captive for about a year. She was like a scared animal. It was really heart breaking to read about how she coped with her recovery. The rocking and the curling up in a corner and her need for that blanket or Julian's t-shirt. But these two warriors helped her in so many ways. The amount of love and compassion was so beautiful to me. They were so protective to the point of over protective. I loved reading how Hannah started to heal and yes even at the end she still had her issues but it was a thing of beauty how she would overcome her fears and face danger and even allow herself to fall in love with Vin and Julian.
I had to take off a star because the fight at the end. It felt like all this build up to find ? and then conquer the tyrant to hurt so many people. But it was kinda a let down. There wasn't really a fight and the end came and it was so simple and so fast. Too simple and fast. I was hoping for this showdown or something and then well.. nothing. But aside from that I will be seeking out the other two books. Loved all the action and all the sexy times between these three.
May 20, 2012
Wow.. this book was just amazing! It was sexy, hot, romantic, sweet and suspenseful. There's not much more I want from a book, this just hit ever note! I think what I loved the most was the relationship between the three main characters Hannah, Vin and Julian. It wasn't just a sexual relationship, there was love and compassion between all of them. I also liked that Vin and Julian were together first and their feelings for one another were transferred over once they met Hannah. Sometimes in books where there are three people together, there's no contact between two of the people (usually the men). But not in this case. There was all sorts of combinations going on, and I thought it was such a nice change of pace!
From reading the last book and learning about Vin's past and also Julian's heartbreak I couldn't wait to find out how everything would be resolved and how they would get their own HEA. I think Dane did a perfect job and I actually have nothing to complain about. And I love when that happens. Can't wait for the next book!
From reading the last book and learning about Vin's past and also Julian's heartbreak I couldn't wait to find out how everything would be resolved and how they would get their own HEA. I think Dane did a perfect job and I actually have nothing to complain about. And I love when that happens. Can't wait for the next book!
July 5, 2012
What can I say about this series that I haven't already said? Lauren Dane has done the impossible: gotten me to like space opera. Her world-building here is so unique and her plot and characters are layered and intense -- this is erotica with heart, heat with depth, fantasy with realism. I read this one reeeaaallly slowly because I was savoring every second, not wanting it to end.
Full review to come, eventually. ;-)
Full review to come, eventually. ;-)
May 22, 2012
My God, those sex scenes were scorching. I read this in public and that was not the best idea I've ever had...
May 28, 2012
I TOTALLY LOVED THIS BOOK! AND HOPE THAT WILHEM IS NEXT! (Did I spell his last name right?) LOL
January 27, 2019
Powerful and at times exquisite writing and story-telling.
________________________________
“[S]he needed to be touching someone. Needed to be touched. When he touched her, the confusion quieted and she felt a little less like tearing her skin off.
“She grew up around doctors and scientists. Was both herself. But they’d done something to her. Instilled a fear that went very deep. She had to clamp her lips closed to keep from showing her teeth like an animal.
“She’d spent all her time and energy just not going crazy. Had used up all her skills and knowledge to do so and she was … tired.
“At every turn, when things got to be so much she wasn’t sure if she could hold herself together, one of them had been there to help her do it. Not to do it for her. But to help her do it, letting her get better on her own terms. She closed her eyes and pressed into him as much as she possibly could. The feel of his arms around her was more than comforting, it seemed integral.
“[T]he doctor had found the marks she’d scratched into her scalp. She’d explained in her medication-slurred voice that it had been her way of keeping track of time after they’d removed the tally marks she’d made on her wall multiple times. They hadn’t seen the ones at her hairline. Brilliant woman, their Hannah. But the story of it, that she’d had to mutilate herself to hold on to her sanity, burned in his gut.
“Was it any better the second and third round?” She did her first treatment each day in the early morning and he’d been there that day before he’d gone to meet Ash. She had to follow with another just after the midday lunch and then another after the evening meal.
“She’s not crying anymore. It seems better for her now.” Vincenz paused, his Adam’s apple sliding up and down. “Still, it’s hard when she comes out of it. I had to do a vid comm with Andrei and when I’d come back she was in her corner again. Nearly tripped over her blankets to get to me when I walked in. She held on tight, trembling from head to toe, apologizing.”
“Julian had considered a long, slow seduction that evening, but Vincenz clearly had other ideas. His hand was down the front of Julian’s trousers until he finally stopped, grasping Julian’s cock and pumping a few times.
Julian arched, fucking himself into Vincenz’s fist until the way became slicker as precum beaded at the slit of his cock and Vincenz gathered it with this thumb. The pleasure of each swipe of the pad of Vincenz’s thumb through that slippery, sensitive spot brought shards of bright pleasure and a tortured yes.
He wanted in. Vin’s mouth, his ass, his fist, whatever. Julian wanted to be in him, to be surrounded by Vincenz, craved that.
“Turn around. Pants down. Shorts down. Hands on the table.”
Julian swallowed, obeying. By the time he got his pants off, Vincenz had returned, placing a bottle of lube in Julian’s line of vision. Julian’s dominance was in his physicality. Vincenz … well, Vincenz liked to dominate in a different way. He used his mind, used Julian’s needs, even those he couldn’t say aloud.
[A]n unexpected but very needed gift. They let her get through things. If it was too much, they gave her support, but they seemed to understand how important it was to her that she do this on her own when she could. Everyone else wanted to do for her. They wanted her to do it for herself but were there if she stumbled.
“Fuck your fist.”
She blinked several times and held absolutely still, not wanting to interrupt and not wanting the moment to end.
Julian moved his hand and she wished so much that she could see just exactly what he was doing then. Wondered what he looked like stroking his cock.
This was wrong. It was wrong to spy on them. She knew it. But she couldn’t look away or close her eyes even though she knew it’s what manners dictated.
Vincenz continued to murmur to Julian. “So, so good. I never imagined it could be this good.”
“Julian’s movements sped and she imagined what he would feel like in her hand. She opened her fist, flexing her fingers. The wave of this newly surfaced sexual desire washed through her. Quieting the chaos. It was as if her body and her brain realized there were other things to feel. Remembered things like pleasure and joy. She did close her eyes then, against tears of relief that she hadn’t completely died inside and been left with only the capacity to survive at the basest of levels....
[A] rush of pleasure brought a gasp from her lips. So much sensation to be held so tight. So much dark sweetness that she could struggle in his hold and it wasn’t fear. It felt so good to be totally surrounded. The sheer amount of sensation was ramped up a thousandfold. Gooseflesh broke out.
“You like it when you’re bound?” He slid his palms down her arms and cuffed the wrists. His hands were huge and so very strong. She shivered, licking her lips.
And nodded. Why lie about it?
“I like it too.”
* * *
“Vincenz leaned in close and nuzzled her pussy with his lips, and she shivered in Julian’s hold. It was an unbelievably sexy sight. The curves of Hannah’s body against his. The perfection of her breasts, the flare of her hips, the darkness of her hair against the pale softness of her skin—magnificent.
She was everything he found beautiful about women. Including the way she responded to being restrained and bound. The way she yielded. He tightened his grip at her wrists and she went all pliant. Beautiful.
With his free hand, he tugged and rolled her nipple, all while he feasted on the sweetness of her neck and watched Vincenz with his face buried in her cunt, devastating her.
Devastating Julian too.
“Take her weight a little. Lean back.” Vincenz spread her open wider, pulling her thigh up onto his shoulder and dove back in, leaving Julian to lick his lips.
“I can see his tongue on your clit at this angle. Open your eyes and look at him.” Though his tone was gentle, it wasn’t a request and she didn’t take it as one. The blood in his cock thrummed as they both watched Vincenz. Took in the way he fluttered his tongue against her, the way his fingers dug into the muscles of her thighs and ass.
* * *
“Julian jumped back to the bed and, laughing, pulled Vincenz into a kiss that she watched, breathless.
“Villain. You’ve already been in that pretty pussy. I want my turn.”
Vincenz rolled so that she was on top. Julian moved behind her. “Perhaps if she gets her mouth on your cock, I can make myself useful elsewhere.”
At the same time?
“I don’t know if I have the skill set for this.” She turned her head to find Julian close.
“The skill set to let two men worship your body and make you feel pleasure? Do you think you could learn it? If, say, we practiced a great deal?”
* * *
“On your knees,” Julian said low, his breath stirring the hair at the base of her neck. “I’m going to put my cock in you like I’ve been dying to.”
He helped her into just the position he wanted her in, which left her leaning on Vincenz. Close enough to kiss and touch just as she’d wanted.
She kissed across his chest, rubbing her face against him, loving the bristle of the pale hair on his belly.
Vincenz took her hands as she scooted down to kiss over his belly and along the trail of hair leading to his cock.
“Oh, no. Don’t close your eyes, Hannah. When my cock is in your mouth, I want your gaze on me.”
Oh. Julian had been the more verbally dominant until that moment, but she certainly had no complaints about this new development.
Gaze on his face, she grabbed his ock at the root and angled it. “I want to look at it. I can’t look at it if I’m looking at your face.”
Julian, who’d been kissing down her spine, paused to nip the flesh at her hip. “She’s got a point.”
“Look your fill.”
Vincenz watched her as she held him, nuzzling the crown with her mouth, licking and pausing to study his reaction. He was pretty sure he’d expire before she got down to business, but also fairly convinced he’d go out a very happy man if that was the case.
And then her gaze locked with his as she took him into her mouth fully.
Julian had leaned out to watch, the voyeur he was.
“Gods above and below, I don’t believe I’ve ever seen anything so sexy.”
* * *
Her moans and whimpers around Vincenz’s cock would have been sexy enough, but when Julian began to thrust, she moved forward on Vincenz, changing her angle. His balls crawled up into his body.
He’d had a threesome before. Twice. Never with a man he’d had as a lover. Never with a long-term female partner either. It had been exiting, tiring and messy, but he hadn’t regretted it either time. But this was different. This was … he struggled to think as her mouth, hot and wet[,] swallowed his cock over and over as Julian fucked her so hard her breasts swayed, her nipples burning against his thighs where she crouched above him.
This was more.
* * *
Julian couldn’t tear his gaze from her mouth on Vincenz’s cock, or of the look on Vincenz’s face as he looked down at her. Her pale, dark-haired glory against Vincenz’s sun-kissed skin and golden hair made Julian quite sure he was having the best time of his entire life right then.
“Yes, yes, that way. Deeper, you can take me deeper. I know you can.”
Hannah’s cunt squeezed him so hard Julian thought he might end up blind. “I think she liked that part, Vin.”
She not only seemed all right with being dominated, she responded in ways Julian could trust far more than her verbal assurances. Her pussy told him she got off on it. Her pussy wasn’t going to worry about hurting feelings.
At that last sign, he leaned to where his pants had landed, grabbing his belt quickly. The groan she made as he slipped the leather against her skin, wrapping the length of his belt around her upper arms shot straight to his cock. Her inner walls fluttered around him in response to the belt.
He tugged....
* * *
“Turn around and kneel on the edge of the bed. Hands clasped at your lower back.”
She did, not bothering to hide her eagerness.
The cool texture of the leather [arm band restraints] brushed against her hand. “I’m going to need this arm.” She let him take her arm and he slid the leather up to nearly her shoulder. And the same on the other arm.
The sensation brought her breath out in hard pants. She had to close her eyes it felt so good, that squeezing leather over the whole of her arms. She was held, caressed, her skin totally surrounded.
And then it got better.
He leaned in and spoke to her, his lips against her ear. “I’m going to bind your arms together now.”
She heard the clink of metal and then felt the tug at her upper arms as he must have fastened the metal clasp, joining her arms together.
She hung her head, unable to not give in to the languorous pleasure of being bound like that. The sensation of it washed through her, calming, soothing, pushing her distress so far away it wasn’t even in her thoughts anymore.
Instead she floated in that warm, safe place as her muscles relaxed.
* * *
“That was about breaking me. About stealing parts of me until there wasn’t enough left to stay together. It was about humiliation and harm. What you do, what Julian does, it’s different because it’s about holding me together, not ripping me apart. For a time I felt as if I might fly away. I was so light, so empty, it felt as though I could lift up and float on the breeze until no one knew me anymore.”
* * *
Unashamed, she found her clit, reaching down to gather all that wetness he’d created to circle it up and around, over and over.
“You’re already close,” he murmured before he bit her ear, making her gasp. “Imagine Julian’s mouth on you.”
“As you fuck him.”
He caught his breath and raised a brow at her. “Yes, yes, you do like it that way. So do I.”
So she did. She remembered what it felt like to have Julian there, his broad shoulders holding her thighs wide open, Vincenz behind him on his knees, hand on Julian’s cock. Each time Vincenz thrust into Julian, Julian’s mouth slipped against her cunt in a different way.
* * *
"Julian needs to grovel a lot more.” Andrei glared at him. “I’m sorry? You said I’m sorry and thought that was enough?”
“I just wanted to be left alone and she wasn’t going.”
“You used something you knew would drive her away. I get it. But, Julian, you used something you knew would drive her away.” Andrei repeated the last with emphasis. “That works with your friends and other assorted people, but some words can’t be taken back. They come from you and into her and it begins to eat away at the foundations you’ve built. The trust she has in both of you.”
* * *
________________________________
“[S]he needed to be touching someone. Needed to be touched. When he touched her, the confusion quieted and she felt a little less like tearing her skin off.
“She grew up around doctors and scientists. Was both herself. But they’d done something to her. Instilled a fear that went very deep. She had to clamp her lips closed to keep from showing her teeth like an animal.
“She’d spent all her time and energy just not going crazy. Had used up all her skills and knowledge to do so and she was … tired.
“At every turn, when things got to be so much she wasn’t sure if she could hold herself together, one of them had been there to help her do it. Not to do it for her. But to help her do it, letting her get better on her own terms. She closed her eyes and pressed into him as much as she possibly could. The feel of his arms around her was more than comforting, it seemed integral.
“[T]he doctor had found the marks she’d scratched into her scalp. She’d explained in her medication-slurred voice that it had been her way of keeping track of time after they’d removed the tally marks she’d made on her wall multiple times. They hadn’t seen the ones at her hairline. Brilliant woman, their Hannah. But the story of it, that she’d had to mutilate herself to hold on to her sanity, burned in his gut.
“Was it any better the second and third round?” She did her first treatment each day in the early morning and he’d been there that day before he’d gone to meet Ash. She had to follow with another just after the midday lunch and then another after the evening meal.
“She’s not crying anymore. It seems better for her now.” Vincenz paused, his Adam’s apple sliding up and down. “Still, it’s hard when she comes out of it. I had to do a vid comm with Andrei and when I’d come back she was in her corner again. Nearly tripped over her blankets to get to me when I walked in. She held on tight, trembling from head to toe, apologizing.”
“Julian had considered a long, slow seduction that evening, but Vincenz clearly had other ideas. His hand was down the front of Julian’s trousers until he finally stopped, grasping Julian’s cock and pumping a few times.
Julian arched, fucking himself into Vincenz’s fist until the way became slicker as precum beaded at the slit of his cock and Vincenz gathered it with this thumb. The pleasure of each swipe of the pad of Vincenz’s thumb through that slippery, sensitive spot brought shards of bright pleasure and a tortured yes.
He wanted in. Vin’s mouth, his ass, his fist, whatever. Julian wanted to be in him, to be surrounded by Vincenz, craved that.
“Turn around. Pants down. Shorts down. Hands on the table.”
Julian swallowed, obeying. By the time he got his pants off, Vincenz had returned, placing a bottle of lube in Julian’s line of vision. Julian’s dominance was in his physicality. Vincenz … well, Vincenz liked to dominate in a different way. He used his mind, used Julian’s needs, even those he couldn’t say aloud.
[A]n unexpected but very needed gift. They let her get through things. If it was too much, they gave her support, but they seemed to understand how important it was to her that she do this on her own when she could. Everyone else wanted to do for her. They wanted her to do it for herself but were there if she stumbled.
“Fuck your fist.”
She blinked several times and held absolutely still, not wanting to interrupt and not wanting the moment to end.
Julian moved his hand and she wished so much that she could see just exactly what he was doing then. Wondered what he looked like stroking his cock.
This was wrong. It was wrong to spy on them. She knew it. But she couldn’t look away or close her eyes even though she knew it’s what manners dictated.
Vincenz continued to murmur to Julian. “So, so good. I never imagined it could be this good.”
“Julian’s movements sped and she imagined what he would feel like in her hand. She opened her fist, flexing her fingers. The wave of this newly surfaced sexual desire washed through her. Quieting the chaos. It was as if her body and her brain realized there were other things to feel. Remembered things like pleasure and joy. She did close her eyes then, against tears of relief that she hadn’t completely died inside and been left with only the capacity to survive at the basest of levels....
[A] rush of pleasure brought a gasp from her lips. So much sensation to be held so tight. So much dark sweetness that she could struggle in his hold and it wasn’t fear. It felt so good to be totally surrounded. The sheer amount of sensation was ramped up a thousandfold. Gooseflesh broke out.
“You like it when you’re bound?” He slid his palms down her arms and cuffed the wrists. His hands were huge and so very strong. She shivered, licking her lips.
And nodded. Why lie about it?
“I like it too.”
* * *
“Vincenz leaned in close and nuzzled her pussy with his lips, and she shivered in Julian’s hold. It was an unbelievably sexy sight. The curves of Hannah’s body against his. The perfection of her breasts, the flare of her hips, the darkness of her hair against the pale softness of her skin—magnificent.
She was everything he found beautiful about women. Including the way she responded to being restrained and bound. The way she yielded. He tightened his grip at her wrists and she went all pliant. Beautiful.
With his free hand, he tugged and rolled her nipple, all while he feasted on the sweetness of her neck and watched Vincenz with his face buried in her cunt, devastating her.
Devastating Julian too.
“Take her weight a little. Lean back.” Vincenz spread her open wider, pulling her thigh up onto his shoulder and dove back in, leaving Julian to lick his lips.
“I can see his tongue on your clit at this angle. Open your eyes and look at him.” Though his tone was gentle, it wasn’t a request and she didn’t take it as one. The blood in his cock thrummed as they both watched Vincenz. Took in the way he fluttered his tongue against her, the way his fingers dug into the muscles of her thighs and ass.
* * *
“Julian jumped back to the bed and, laughing, pulled Vincenz into a kiss that she watched, breathless.
“Villain. You’ve already been in that pretty pussy. I want my turn.”
Vincenz rolled so that she was on top. Julian moved behind her. “Perhaps if she gets her mouth on your cock, I can make myself useful elsewhere.”
At the same time?
“I don’t know if I have the skill set for this.” She turned her head to find Julian close.
“The skill set to let two men worship your body and make you feel pleasure? Do you think you could learn it? If, say, we practiced a great deal?”
* * *
“On your knees,” Julian said low, his breath stirring the hair at the base of her neck. “I’m going to put my cock in you like I’ve been dying to.”
He helped her into just the position he wanted her in, which left her leaning on Vincenz. Close enough to kiss and touch just as she’d wanted.
She kissed across his chest, rubbing her face against him, loving the bristle of the pale hair on his belly.
Vincenz took her hands as she scooted down to kiss over his belly and along the trail of hair leading to his cock.
“Oh, no. Don’t close your eyes, Hannah. When my cock is in your mouth, I want your gaze on me.”
Oh. Julian had been the more verbally dominant until that moment, but she certainly had no complaints about this new development.
Gaze on his face, she grabbed his ock at the root and angled it. “I want to look at it. I can’t look at it if I’m looking at your face.”
Julian, who’d been kissing down her spine, paused to nip the flesh at her hip. “She’s got a point.”
“Look your fill.”
Vincenz watched her as she held him, nuzzling the crown with her mouth, licking and pausing to study his reaction. He was pretty sure he’d expire before she got down to business, but also fairly convinced he’d go out a very happy man if that was the case.
And then her gaze locked with his as she took him into her mouth fully.
Julian had leaned out to watch, the voyeur he was.
“Gods above and below, I don’t believe I’ve ever seen anything so sexy.”
* * *
Her moans and whimpers around Vincenz’s cock would have been sexy enough, but when Julian began to thrust, she moved forward on Vincenz, changing her angle. His balls crawled up into his body.
He’d had a threesome before. Twice. Never with a man he’d had as a lover. Never with a long-term female partner either. It had been exiting, tiring and messy, but he hadn’t regretted it either time. But this was different. This was … he struggled to think as her mouth, hot and wet[,] swallowed his cock over and over as Julian fucked her so hard her breasts swayed, her nipples burning against his thighs where she crouched above him.
This was more.
* * *
Julian couldn’t tear his gaze from her mouth on Vincenz’s cock, or of the look on Vincenz’s face as he looked down at her. Her pale, dark-haired glory against Vincenz’s sun-kissed skin and golden hair made Julian quite sure he was having the best time of his entire life right then.
“Yes, yes, that way. Deeper, you can take me deeper. I know you can.”
Hannah’s cunt squeezed him so hard Julian thought he might end up blind. “I think she liked that part, Vin.”
She not only seemed all right with being dominated, she responded in ways Julian could trust far more than her verbal assurances. Her pussy told him she got off on it. Her pussy wasn’t going to worry about hurting feelings.
At that last sign, he leaned to where his pants had landed, grabbing his belt quickly. The groan she made as he slipped the leather against her skin, wrapping the length of his belt around her upper arms shot straight to his cock. Her inner walls fluttered around him in response to the belt.
He tugged....
* * *
“Turn around and kneel on the edge of the bed. Hands clasped at your lower back.”
She did, not bothering to hide her eagerness.
The cool texture of the leather [arm band restraints] brushed against her hand. “I’m going to need this arm.” She let him take her arm and he slid the leather up to nearly her shoulder. And the same on the other arm.
The sensation brought her breath out in hard pants. She had to close her eyes it felt so good, that squeezing leather over the whole of her arms. She was held, caressed, her skin totally surrounded.
And then it got better.
He leaned in and spoke to her, his lips against her ear. “I’m going to bind your arms together now.”
She heard the clink of metal and then felt the tug at her upper arms as he must have fastened the metal clasp, joining her arms together.
She hung her head, unable to not give in to the languorous pleasure of being bound like that. The sensation of it washed through her, calming, soothing, pushing her distress so far away it wasn’t even in her thoughts anymore.
Instead she floated in that warm, safe place as her muscles relaxed.
* * *
“That was about breaking me. About stealing parts of me until there wasn’t enough left to stay together. It was about humiliation and harm. What you do, what Julian does, it’s different because it’s about holding me together, not ripping me apart. For a time I felt as if I might fly away. I was so light, so empty, it felt as though I could lift up and float on the breeze until no one knew me anymore.”
* * *
Unashamed, she found her clit, reaching down to gather all that wetness he’d created to circle it up and around, over and over.
“You’re already close,” he murmured before he bit her ear, making her gasp. “Imagine Julian’s mouth on you.”
“As you fuck him.”
He caught his breath and raised a brow at her. “Yes, yes, you do like it that way. So do I.”
So she did. She remembered what it felt like to have Julian there, his broad shoulders holding her thighs wide open, Vincenz behind him on his knees, hand on Julian’s cock. Each time Vincenz thrust into Julian, Julian’s mouth slipped against her cunt in a different way.
* * *
"Julian needs to grovel a lot more.” Andrei glared at him. “I’m sorry? You said I’m sorry and thought that was enough?”
“I just wanted to be left alone and she wasn’t going.”
“You used something you knew would drive her away. I get it. But, Julian, you used something you knew would drive her away.” Andrei repeated the last with emphasis. “That works with your friends and other assorted people, but some words can’t be taken back. They come from you and into her and it begins to eat away at the foundations you’ve built. The trust she has in both of you.”
* * *
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2024
The story itself is well written and at times the character moments were amusing but I find the imagery the author gives between the three in her erotic scenes tend to blur and not be to descriptive thus feels like your trying to figure out how exactly their moving to be positioned in certain moments giving it sort of a not so clear as to who's doing what it sort of just doesn't quite flow as seamlessly as I'd hoped.
The book plot also didn't really have much going for it, sure there figuring out the female characters story and circumstances and the war to stop the bad guy, but we'll It all felt very lackluster, it lacked any significant building for the story they could have built on the mystery, but otherwise the ending came of as typical and predictable.
The book plot also didn't really have much going for it, sure there figuring out the female characters story and circumstances and the war to stop the bad guy, but we'll It all felt very lackluster, it lacked any significant building for the story they could have built on the mystery, but otherwise the ending came of as typical and predictable.
September 18, 2018
1.5 Stars
library
July 30, 20210
February 27, 2022
I think this was the first Lauren Dane book I found and read, a long time ago. It was so good, I have since read everything she has written.
Love this story and characters.
Love this story and characters.
June 23, 2012
Have a book that wrenches so many emotions out of you? This book did it to me. Fear, passion, pain, grief, love, caring, suspense, action, protection…so many more emotions than I can ever list here.
Hannah Black had a beautiful life before being kidnapped and tortured all for the futherment of the Imperial government. She has no idea what they want from her. She counts days by scrapping the back of her neck since they cover up her attempts on the wall. The brush of her hair on her face, her blanket and a corner are the little things that are allowing her to hold on to some semblance of sanity. When a man approaches her in her room saying he is going to save her, she clings to the hope and allows him to help her escape.
Vincenz Fardelle is the exiled son of the leader of the Imperialist Universe. Having barely escaped his father, he helps the Federate in their fight against an oppressive regime. After years of doubt, he has won over the people who matter and now is a full member in the Phantom Corp, a group of special soldiers protecting the Federation.
Julian Marsters has only known a hard life, but the Phantom Corp saved him from himself. When his best friend is murdered in the war, he turns into himself almost destroying himself. But Vincenz sees his pain and the two grow close as lovers and friends, becoming a team for the Phantom Corps.
When Vincenz shows up with Hannah, Julian feels a need to protect her from all the harsh realities the healing process will bring. The two men start off with only Hannah’s best interest and a brotherly concern to help her heal that grows into a deeper appreciation for her and eventually into passion and love.
While Hannah has been saved, she has endured a lot of pain and sensory deprivation. The healing process could take months or even years, but with the help of a doctor and his experimental treatment, they speed up parts of the healing process to just a two months. As Hannah starts to heal, her personality starts to show to the men. The small two member family grows to three with little hesitation.
When I read about Hannah, I wanted to go in and destroy everyone that hurt her, just like the men. It broke my heart to see the things she had to do to retain a part of herself. A blanket, hair brushing her face, a corner so no one could come at her from the back. She fought hard to retain some part of herself. It was hard to read about, but you see how the men are extremely protective of her. In now way were they inappropriate to her as she was healing. They did speed the healing process because they needed to debrief her and quickly since they were at war. Eventually they do find out why they had detained her.
The depth of the characters was refreshing. It was not a book based totally on sex. Each character had their own demons to overcome. Hannah her center of being, Vincenz being the son of a homicidal dictator and Julian over the loss of his best friend, Marame. The war is ever present as each character had a vested interest to save lives and end the war. There was no one dimension to them. They were caring and hard at the same time.
One thing that confused me was Hannah’s need to be dominated during sex. I don’t know if this was a symtom of the captivity or if she was submissive before the event. She just took to be restrained very easily, and even to the BDSM elements that were thrown in. While there were scenes for all three of them together, they never breached her anus, which was a relief because I don’t think Hannah could have taken that kind of intimacy. A big turn on for this ménage was that the male characters had a relationship. In most it is just the men loving the woman, but here Vincenz and Julian love each other and add Hannah to that love. There was no exclusion. Everyone was involved in a very loving way.
While I loved this entire series, I felt it came to and end very gracefully. It was kind of a let down some of the events in the end, but it all came out in the end. A great series that I will have to re-read in the future as it is always be on my favorite list.
Hannah Black had a beautiful life before being kidnapped and tortured all for the futherment of the Imperial government. She has no idea what they want from her. She counts days by scrapping the back of her neck since they cover up her attempts on the wall. The brush of her hair on her face, her blanket and a corner are the little things that are allowing her to hold on to some semblance of sanity. When a man approaches her in her room saying he is going to save her, she clings to the hope and allows him to help her escape.
Vincenz Fardelle is the exiled son of the leader of the Imperialist Universe. Having barely escaped his father, he helps the Federate in their fight against an oppressive regime. After years of doubt, he has won over the people who matter and now is a full member in the Phantom Corp, a group of special soldiers protecting the Federation.
Julian Marsters has only known a hard life, but the Phantom Corp saved him from himself. When his best friend is murdered in the war, he turns into himself almost destroying himself. But Vincenz sees his pain and the two grow close as lovers and friends, becoming a team for the Phantom Corps.
When Vincenz shows up with Hannah, Julian feels a need to protect her from all the harsh realities the healing process will bring. The two men start off with only Hannah’s best interest and a brotherly concern to help her heal that grows into a deeper appreciation for her and eventually into passion and love.
While Hannah has been saved, she has endured a lot of pain and sensory deprivation. The healing process could take months or even years, but with the help of a doctor and his experimental treatment, they speed up parts of the healing process to just a two months. As Hannah starts to heal, her personality starts to show to the men. The small two member family grows to three with little hesitation.
When I read about Hannah, I wanted to go in and destroy everyone that hurt her, just like the men. It broke my heart to see the things she had to do to retain a part of herself. A blanket, hair brushing her face, a corner so no one could come at her from the back. She fought hard to retain some part of herself. It was hard to read about, but you see how the men are extremely protective of her. In now way were they inappropriate to her as she was healing. They did speed the healing process because they needed to debrief her and quickly since they were at war. Eventually they do find out why they had detained her.
The depth of the characters was refreshing. It was not a book based totally on sex. Each character had their own demons to overcome. Hannah her center of being, Vincenz being the son of a homicidal dictator and Julian over the loss of his best friend, Marame. The war is ever present as each character had a vested interest to save lives and end the war. There was no one dimension to them. They were caring and hard at the same time.
One thing that confused me was Hannah’s need to be dominated during sex. I don’t know if this was a symtom of the captivity or if she was submissive before the event. She just took to be restrained very easily, and even to the BDSM elements that were thrown in. While there were scenes for all three of them together, they never breached her anus, which was a relief because I don’t think Hannah could have taken that kind of intimacy. A big turn on for this ménage was that the male characters had a relationship. In most it is just the men loving the woman, but here Vincenz and Julian love each other and add Hannah to that love. There was no exclusion. Everyone was involved in a very loving way.
While I loved this entire series, I felt it came to and end very gracefully. It was kind of a let down some of the events in the end, but it all came out in the end. A great series that I will have to re-read in the future as it is always be on my favorite list.
June 26, 2012
Review Courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Phew! Is it hot in here….
Opening Sentence: She rocked because it brushed her hair over her skin.
The Review:
The third book in this series features the yummiest of love triangles. Though, I don’t think that’s quite the right term for it. Threesome would probably fit more aptly, *angelface* but triangle will do for now.
Let’s start with the lady, shall we. We first met Hannah Black at the end of the last book, when she is rescued by Vincenz as he and others are on a mission at a factory in a remote part of a Verse. Hannah has been subjected to imprisonment without any human interaction for, at best guess, almost a year. When she is finally extracted from the hellhole that had once been her place of employment, she is physically unwell and mentally broken. But, with the care of her savior and his love, Julian, Hannah is eventually capable of regaining her health and overcoming her battle with the demons in her mind. In fact, with her expertise as a doctor and researcher, she turns out to be indispensible in this war on the Imperium.
Vincenz cannot forget the way Hannah looked when they first met or the way she clung to him, as if her very life depended on him. And I guess, at some points, that was exactly the case. When he returns from the op, Vincenz takes Hannah to his own home to live with him and his partner Julian. Vincenz is an integral part of the team fighting the leader of the Imperium, who just happens to be his father. But, he is willing to put it all on hold to help Hannah heal. Also on Vincenz’s plate is his relationship with Julian, and all that entails.
When Hannah is brought into his home by Vincenz, Julian automatically feels protective of her, and will do anything for her. Still on the mourning train after his closest friend is killed in battle, Julian is in serious need of someone else to focus on. While Vincenz goes a long way to fill the gap, all is not completely healed until Hannah arrives.
It is really too terribly cute in the beginning, the way Vincenz and Julian dote on Hannah. And later, when they decide to acknowledge the fact that they have become sexually attracted to her, and she reciprocates…well, cute is not the term you’d use. This book is jam-packed with sexy scenes that will have you fanning yourself with the book for a while before you can continue reading the rest of the story. Or, if you are the impatient sort, I would totally recommend spending the time in front of the AC.
Oh, and that war with the Imperium and all that stuff? Well, I’m pretty sure there’s a conclusion and a happy ending in there somewhere. I highly recommend reading this series.
Notable Scene:
Working quickly, everyone wanting to be done, she didn’t notice the soldier until he was on her, knocking her to the ground.
The fight-or-flight impulse took over and the fear broke through as she clawed at his face and kneed him in the balls. He tried to hit her with his weapon but she dodged and sank her teeth into his wrist. The animal who had lived in her for so long surfaced, snarling, snapping, fighting for its life.
She heard them nearby, knew somewhere that they were also fighting with soldiers and that she was on her own.
On her own. The memories of the helplessness came back, threatening to suck her under. But she held on, fighting.
Then she heard Wilhelm Ellis in her ear.
“His weapon should be on your right side, Hannah. Make sure the safety is off and end this. You can do it.”
Some part of her heard and registered, her fingers scrabbling through the blood to grab the weapon he’d dropped when she’d bitten him. It was him or her and it sure wasn’t going to be her.
FTC Advisory: Penguin/Berkley provided me with a copy of Captivated. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Phew! Is it hot in here….
Opening Sentence: She rocked because it brushed her hair over her skin.
The Review:
The third book in this series features the yummiest of love triangles. Though, I don’t think that’s quite the right term for it. Threesome would probably fit more aptly, *angelface* but triangle will do for now.
Let’s start with the lady, shall we. We first met Hannah Black at the end of the last book, when she is rescued by Vincenz as he and others are on a mission at a factory in a remote part of a Verse. Hannah has been subjected to imprisonment without any human interaction for, at best guess, almost a year. When she is finally extracted from the hellhole that had once been her place of employment, she is physically unwell and mentally broken. But, with the care of her savior and his love, Julian, Hannah is eventually capable of regaining her health and overcoming her battle with the demons in her mind. In fact, with her expertise as a doctor and researcher, she turns out to be indispensible in this war on the Imperium.
Vincenz cannot forget the way Hannah looked when they first met or the way she clung to him, as if her very life depended on him. And I guess, at some points, that was exactly the case. When he returns from the op, Vincenz takes Hannah to his own home to live with him and his partner Julian. Vincenz is an integral part of the team fighting the leader of the Imperium, who just happens to be his father. But, he is willing to put it all on hold to help Hannah heal. Also on Vincenz’s plate is his relationship with Julian, and all that entails.
When Hannah is brought into his home by Vincenz, Julian automatically feels protective of her, and will do anything for her. Still on the mourning train after his closest friend is killed in battle, Julian is in serious need of someone else to focus on. While Vincenz goes a long way to fill the gap, all is not completely healed until Hannah arrives.
It is really too terribly cute in the beginning, the way Vincenz and Julian dote on Hannah. And later, when they decide to acknowledge the fact that they have become sexually attracted to her, and she reciprocates…well, cute is not the term you’d use. This book is jam-packed with sexy scenes that will have you fanning yourself with the book for a while before you can continue reading the rest of the story. Or, if you are the impatient sort, I would totally recommend spending the time in front of the AC.
Oh, and that war with the Imperium and all that stuff? Well, I’m pretty sure there’s a conclusion and a happy ending in there somewhere. I highly recommend reading this series.
Notable Scene:
Working quickly, everyone wanting to be done, she didn’t notice the soldier until he was on her, knocking her to the ground.
The fight-or-flight impulse took over and the fear broke through as she clawed at his face and kneed him in the balls. He tried to hit her with his weapon but she dodged and sank her teeth into his wrist. The animal who had lived in her for so long surfaced, snarling, snapping, fighting for its life.
She heard them nearby, knew somewhere that they were also fighting with soldiers and that she was on her own.
On her own. The memories of the helplessness came back, threatening to suck her under. But she held on, fighting.
Then she heard Wilhelm Ellis in her ear.
“His weapon should be on your right side, Hannah. Make sure the safety is off and end this. You can do it.”
Some part of her heard and registered, her fingers scrabbling through the blood to grab the weapon he’d dropped when she’d bitten him. It was him or her and it sure wasn’t going to be her.
FTC Advisory: Penguin/Berkley provided me with a copy of Captivated. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
February 3, 2011
Captivated is the third book in Lauren Dane’s sci-fi romance Phantom Corps series. I’m a very big fan of this series in general because Lauren pushes the envelope in ways that’s really needed in the current romances being published. Lauren was one of the first authors I read who made the ménage relationship a believable happily ever after. The only other author on par with Lauren who writes incredible ménage romances is Samantha Kane with her historicals. With Lauren’s Phantom Corps series, she has excelled in every sense of the word with her unique and well crafted world building space adventures, including very three dimensional characters. There’s incredible depth to this book and the characters involved. The books in this series are more character driven for me as a reader even though there are intergalactic battles and taking down the bad guys, much like you would find in the Star Wars movies.
Lauren has done something amazing with Captivated. At first glance, you would think Captivated is an erotic ménage romance that has a slight BDSM undertone to it. It’s so much more than that. We have our two heroes who heal the tortured and abused heroine through trust, friendship and finally through love as they use sex to help her recover and welcome her into their relationship. Most will see this as a typical ménage romance, a MFM. People may argue with me, but I see Captivated first as a M/M romance and the a MMF as the story moves along. Even though the heroes, Vincenz and Julian end up falling for the heroine, Hannah, and claiming her as their their lover, the heart of this relationship is Vincenz and Julian as each other’s one and only. The dynamics doesn’t read to me as a MFM, where the two heroes’ sole purpose is to pleasure and share the heroine. Hannah is welcomed into the fold and rejoices in Vincenz and Julian’s love, but when all is said and done, the main focus is still on Vincenz and Julian as a THE couple. Now this is not a bad thing at all. I think Lauren took a big chance, and with some subtle twists and the way she has shown the deep rooted feelings shared between all three characters, she eases the reader into a comfortable state and understanding, especially those who are looking more for a MFM romance or who may not be entirely comfortable with man on man love scenes.
Captivated was a unique reading experience for me because as soon and Vincenz and Julian are together, they take over the page. I was enthralled by these two. Their love and devotion for one another was so real and beautiful. The love scenes between these two men were so palpable that I could taste it. Lauren doesn’t leave anything left to the imagination when it comes to their lovemaking. It’s also incredible that Lauren takes the time to show Hannah’s healing as a prisoner of imperialist troops who are the enemies both Vincenz and Julian are trying to take down. When Vincenz saves Hannah from her prison and becomes her protector and refuses to allow anyone (besides Julian) to help her heal, you find yourself waiting anxiously for Hannah to recover and rejoin the world again so she can become a part of what Vincenz and Julian share together.
Captivated had me captivated from beginning to end. Lauren is one author I bow to who opened my mind to all types of relationships in the romances I read. Once it used to be just a woman and a man together in a sexual relationship, but then as I read different types of romances, it soon involved two men or two woman together in a loving and committed relationship. It took someone like Lauren Dane, and again Samantha Kane, to open my eyes and make me believe that a trio like Vincenz, Julian and Hannah can all be in a committed relationship and care for one another so much. Captivated is such a book that succeeds in this way and so much more.
Lauren has done something amazing with Captivated. At first glance, you would think Captivated is an erotic ménage romance that has a slight BDSM undertone to it. It’s so much more than that. We have our two heroes who heal the tortured and abused heroine through trust, friendship and finally through love as they use sex to help her recover and welcome her into their relationship. Most will see this as a typical ménage romance, a MFM. People may argue with me, but I see Captivated first as a M/M romance and the a MMF as the story moves along. Even though the heroes, Vincenz and Julian end up falling for the heroine, Hannah, and claiming her as their their lover, the heart of this relationship is Vincenz and Julian as each other’s one and only. The dynamics doesn’t read to me as a MFM, where the two heroes’ sole purpose is to pleasure and share the heroine. Hannah is welcomed into the fold and rejoices in Vincenz and Julian’s love, but when all is said and done, the main focus is still on Vincenz and Julian as a THE couple. Now this is not a bad thing at all. I think Lauren took a big chance, and with some subtle twists and the way she has shown the deep rooted feelings shared between all three characters, she eases the reader into a comfortable state and understanding, especially those who are looking more for a MFM romance or who may not be entirely comfortable with man on man love scenes.
Captivated was a unique reading experience for me because as soon and Vincenz and Julian are together, they take over the page. I was enthralled by these two. Their love and devotion for one another was so real and beautiful. The love scenes between these two men were so palpable that I could taste it. Lauren doesn’t leave anything left to the imagination when it comes to their lovemaking. It’s also incredible that Lauren takes the time to show Hannah’s healing as a prisoner of imperialist troops who are the enemies both Vincenz and Julian are trying to take down. When Vincenz saves Hannah from her prison and becomes her protector and refuses to allow anyone (besides Julian) to help her heal, you find yourself waiting anxiously for Hannah to recover and rejoin the world again so she can become a part of what Vincenz and Julian share together.
Captivated had me captivated from beginning to end. Lauren is one author I bow to who opened my mind to all types of relationships in the romances I read. Once it used to be just a woman and a man together in a sexual relationship, but then as I read different types of romances, it soon involved two men or two woman together in a loving and committed relationship. It took someone like Lauren Dane, and again Samantha Kane, to open my eyes and make me believe that a trio like Vincenz, Julian and Hannah can all be in a committed relationship and care for one another so much. Captivated is such a book that succeeds in this way and so much more.
May 24, 2012
The rating is really 3.5. I didn't upgrade to a 4 because my issues with the ending really annoyed me.
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Hopefully I can clear this book series order up if you are a wee bit confused. Lauren Dane has a fabulous series called the "Federation Chronicles". Captivated would be the 5th book. But within this Federation Chronicle series she has a spin off called "Phantom Corps" series. Captivated would be the 3rd book in that series. Okay? Good. Here are my thoughts.
I adore the Federation Chronicle series. I've followed ever since the first book, "Undercover" (which is super fantastic BTW!!) I had been so looking forward to Captivated because the intended story line captivated me in the previous book, "Mesmerized". I couldn't wait to read about Vincenz and Julian and the mysterious woman Vincenz saved at the end of that book.
Vincenz is the only living son of a madman dictator. I felt all the burden and pressure on poor Vincenz's shoulders. It weighed heavily on him that his father was the cause of so many lost lives. Vincenz escaped his clutches a few years ago and has been fighting against his father's armies ever since. His guilt is evident regarding all the atrocities and the war is a very personal thing for him. I loved how Lauren Dane wrote in right amount of guilt and didn't let it overtake his character. Vincenz was not a mopey, guilt ridden man but rather a man with a mission to do the right thing.
Julian had a sad upbringing but he doesn't dwell on it. He embraces the second chance he was given within the Phantom Corps and he loves Vincenz fiercely. Both of these men compliment each other without being too alpha. I felt them both as equals in every sense of the way. What amazing chemistry. Those sparks were equally complimented with sexy and tastfully orchestrated M/M scenes.
When Vincenz rescues Hannah, she is barely emotionally coherent. Being severely abused by her enemies and left in complete isolation, she needs to learn re-learn how to communicate her thoughts and emotions. What I really liked was that Lauren Dane didn't write that Hannah was to be healed overnight. She created a great medical mechanism which helped the story along in a believable sense. I know that the story is sci-fi but I still need believable situations within that story and I appreciated that thought and creativity that went into Hannah's healing.
Favourite line of Captivated, "Would you like to go an adventure, Hannah Black?" Whew, talk about a double entendre!
Captivated is an erotic romance but that doesn't mean every other page is sex. There were a few well written scenes and they included a variety of M/M & M/M/F as well as M/F. It was really great to read about the M/F being included because it showcased how much they were falling in love with each other and not just a menage triad team. Love shone through completely.
Since I have been following these books since the beginning and there had been some amazing adventures I was a bit disappointed with how quickly and abruptly the story ended. Five books in and I felt like "BAM!" it was over. It was way way to easy. I was hoping for more of an intense palm sweating ending. I am not going to release spoilers so I can't go into to much detail but after an amazing sci-fi adventure, the ending lacked creativeness.
Teasers: Long leather gloves with buckles, cave pool, Julian's T-shirts, even Triads have arguments with each other
http://anotherlookbookreviews.blogspo...
Hopefully I can clear this book series order up if you are a wee bit confused. Lauren Dane has a fabulous series called the "Federation Chronicles". Captivated would be the 5th book. But within this Federation Chronicle series she has a spin off called "Phantom Corps" series. Captivated would be the 3rd book in that series. Okay? Good. Here are my thoughts.
I adore the Federation Chronicle series. I've followed ever since the first book, "Undercover" (which is super fantastic BTW!!) I had been so looking forward to Captivated because the intended story line captivated me in the previous book, "Mesmerized". I couldn't wait to read about Vincenz and Julian and the mysterious woman Vincenz saved at the end of that book.
Vincenz is the only living son of a madman dictator. I felt all the burden and pressure on poor Vincenz's shoulders. It weighed heavily on him that his father was the cause of so many lost lives. Vincenz escaped his clutches a few years ago and has been fighting against his father's armies ever since. His guilt is evident regarding all the atrocities and the war is a very personal thing for him. I loved how Lauren Dane wrote in right amount of guilt and didn't let it overtake his character. Vincenz was not a mopey, guilt ridden man but rather a man with a mission to do the right thing.
Julian had a sad upbringing but he doesn't dwell on it. He embraces the second chance he was given within the Phantom Corps and he loves Vincenz fiercely. Both of these men compliment each other without being too alpha. I felt them both as equals in every sense of the way. What amazing chemistry. Those sparks were equally complimented with sexy and tastfully orchestrated M/M scenes.
When Vincenz rescues Hannah, she is barely emotionally coherent. Being severely abused by her enemies and left in complete isolation, she needs to learn re-learn how to communicate her thoughts and emotions. What I really liked was that Lauren Dane didn't write that Hannah was to be healed overnight. She created a great medical mechanism which helped the story along in a believable sense. I know that the story is sci-fi but I still need believable situations within that story and I appreciated that thought and creativity that went into Hannah's healing.
Favourite line of Captivated, "Would you like to go an adventure, Hannah Black?" Whew, talk about a double entendre!
Captivated is an erotic romance but that doesn't mean every other page is sex. There were a few well written scenes and they included a variety of M/M & M/M/F as well as M/F. It was really great to read about the M/F being included because it showcased how much they were falling in love with each other and not just a menage triad team. Love shone through completely.
Since I have been following these books since the beginning and there had been some amazing adventures I was a bit disappointed with how quickly and abruptly the story ended. Five books in and I felt like "BAM!" it was over. It was way way to easy. I was hoping for more of an intense palm sweating ending. I am not going to release spoilers so I can't go into to much detail but after an amazing sci-fi adventure, the ending lacked creativeness.
Teasers: Long leather gloves with buckles, cave pool, Julian's T-shirts, even Triads have arguments with each other
September 8, 2012
Vincenz Fardelle is a member of the elite Phantom Corps for the Federation Universe and he is also the exiled son of their enemy, the Supreme Leader of the Imperialist Universe. Vincenz has worked very hard to prove that he is nothing like his father and to help find a way to bring his father’s madness to an end. While on a mission, Vincenz finds a woman prisoner who tugs at several things within him. Wanting only to help her, Vincenz brings her to his home and his lover, Julian Marsters. Julian accepts her as readily as Vincenz did and this move will change their relationship forever.
Hannah Black was a highly thought of scientist and doctor researching viruses to help the people of both verses. However, in a move that confuses everyone Hannah is captured, held and tortured by the Imperialists. Only Hannah’s inner strength keeps her alive and sane during the time she is held. When Vincenz carries Hannah out of the lab, the only thing she can think of is to keep hold of the man who saved her. Hannah knows that her thoughts are all scrambled and her fears are many now. Yet, she also knows that she may know something that will help the Federation in this fierce war. Trust is something Hannah doesn’t give easily now, but she puts all her trust into Vincenz and Julian now as the three of them work to find the missing answers.
Unfortunately, the war won’t stop while Vincenz, Julian and Hannah work at finding out what might be in her memory that made the Imperialist keep her alive. Missions still have to be undertaken and it appears that Hannah’s mind works in perfect conjunction with Vincenz on solving puzzles with Julian backing them both up. Danger seems to follow the loving threesome who has discovered a strong passion together. All the answers and clues are leading to a final risky mission that will lead all three of them right into the center of the enemy palace. A mission that will either save millions of lives or end theirs.
Not even the danger of war can subdue the power of a love so bright nothing can defeat it. Vincenz, Julian and Hannah all learn this fact to be true in Captivated. I have to say right off that I found Vincenz, Julian and Hannah’s story so powerful and wonderfully written that I experienced all most every emotion possible while reading it. The fact that Vincenz and Julian had found each other and love after their pasts was amazing enough but when you added in Hannah’s past and how hard the three of them worked to find their future together, I was a goner. Passion and suspense walk hand and hand with this threesome and their love overwhelms even the highest of hurtles.
To say that Captivated is a must read and a true keeper really doesn’t tell you about all the twists and turns and emotions that happen while you read it. I have to also say that the ending was absolutely perfect after all the horrors Vincenz, Julian and Hannah had to go through, both together and separately. Captivated is Joyfully Recommended as I know it will ensnare you as it did me.
My last thoughts are that I hope this is not the last we will see of the many characters I have come to love from beginning with the Federation Chronicles and into the Phantom Corps. If you have not read either of these series yet, I would recommend reading them in order and starting with the Federation Chronicles so that you can experience the entire story arc.
Reviewed by Jo for Joyfully Reviewed
Hannah Black was a highly thought of scientist and doctor researching viruses to help the people of both verses. However, in a move that confuses everyone Hannah is captured, held and tortured by the Imperialists. Only Hannah’s inner strength keeps her alive and sane during the time she is held. When Vincenz carries Hannah out of the lab, the only thing she can think of is to keep hold of the man who saved her. Hannah knows that her thoughts are all scrambled and her fears are many now. Yet, she also knows that she may know something that will help the Federation in this fierce war. Trust is something Hannah doesn’t give easily now, but she puts all her trust into Vincenz and Julian now as the three of them work to find the missing answers.
Unfortunately, the war won’t stop while Vincenz, Julian and Hannah work at finding out what might be in her memory that made the Imperialist keep her alive. Missions still have to be undertaken and it appears that Hannah’s mind works in perfect conjunction with Vincenz on solving puzzles with Julian backing them both up. Danger seems to follow the loving threesome who has discovered a strong passion together. All the answers and clues are leading to a final risky mission that will lead all three of them right into the center of the enemy palace. A mission that will either save millions of lives or end theirs.
Not even the danger of war can subdue the power of a love so bright nothing can defeat it. Vincenz, Julian and Hannah all learn this fact to be true in Captivated. I have to say right off that I found Vincenz, Julian and Hannah’s story so powerful and wonderfully written that I experienced all most every emotion possible while reading it. The fact that Vincenz and Julian had found each other and love after their pasts was amazing enough but when you added in Hannah’s past and how hard the three of them worked to find their future together, I was a goner. Passion and suspense walk hand and hand with this threesome and their love overwhelms even the highest of hurtles.
To say that Captivated is a must read and a true keeper really doesn’t tell you about all the twists and turns and emotions that happen while you read it. I have to also say that the ending was absolutely perfect after all the horrors Vincenz, Julian and Hannah had to go through, both together and separately. Captivated is Joyfully Recommended as I know it will ensnare you as it did me.
My last thoughts are that I hope this is not the last we will see of the many characters I have come to love from beginning with the Federation Chronicles and into the Phantom Corps. If you have not read either of these series yet, I would recommend reading them in order and starting with the Federation Chronicles so that you can experience the entire story arc.
Reviewed by Jo for Joyfully Reviewed
June 10, 2012
Captivated by Lauren Dane
Grade: B
“You can let it go, baby. Let yourself fall apart a little while if that’s what you need. I’m here to hold all the pieces until you’re ready.”
No one writes M/M/F romance better than Lauren Dane and as a huge fan of her contemporary romance books I jumped at the chance to review Captivated. In this book we meet Vincenz and Julian who are a couple and in the military battling their enemies the Imperialist. On a mission Vincenz saves a young woman named Hannah who has been held prisoner by the Imperialists for over a year and brings her back to live with him and Julian. As Hannah recovers from her trauma the three get very close and slowly start to heal both new and old wounds.
Captivated is not something that I would normally pick up but I am so glad I did. My first encounter with M/M/F romance was in Mrs. Dane’s Brown Siblings series and found myself hooked into a new genre of romance to love. Captivated has a lot of things going on and deals with some heavy emotions. It’s hard enough dealing with three people in a relationship but when all three have been deeply hurt and are emotionally fragile it makes for some heart breaking storylines.
The book starts out with Julian and Vincenz as a couple and we get some very hot scenes from just the two of them. The sex in this book is HOT and I found myself blushing a couple of times but in a very good way. I loved the way that Julian and Vincenz are with Hannah and how they all come together to help each other and love one another. I felt that there were a few times when the characters were having sex when it wasn’t really appropriate or safe but for the most part I really enjoyed their relationship.
My only issue with the book is that you aren’t really given a back story at all. This is definitely not a stand alone book and I spent a lot fo time (when there wasn’t hot sex going on) wondering who was who and what kind of world this was taking place in. I’m not sure if there is or ever was a plant Earth or how many planets there are, who’s in charge and who are the Imperialists. I really wish there would have been more information given but besides that I really enjoyed this book.
Grade: B
“You can let it go, baby. Let yourself fall apart a little while if that’s what you need. I’m here to hold all the pieces until you’re ready.”
No one writes M/M/F romance better than Lauren Dane and as a huge fan of her contemporary romance books I jumped at the chance to review Captivated. In this book we meet Vincenz and Julian who are a couple and in the military battling their enemies the Imperialist. On a mission Vincenz saves a young woman named Hannah who has been held prisoner by the Imperialists for over a year and brings her back to live with him and Julian. As Hannah recovers from her trauma the three get very close and slowly start to heal both new and old wounds.
Captivated is not something that I would normally pick up but I am so glad I did. My first encounter with M/M/F romance was in Mrs. Dane’s Brown Siblings series and found myself hooked into a new genre of romance to love. Captivated has a lot of things going on and deals with some heavy emotions. It’s hard enough dealing with three people in a relationship but when all three have been deeply hurt and are emotionally fragile it makes for some heart breaking storylines.
The book starts out with Julian and Vincenz as a couple and we get some very hot scenes from just the two of them. The sex in this book is HOT and I found myself blushing a couple of times but in a very good way. I loved the way that Julian and Vincenz are with Hannah and how they all come together to help each other and love one another. I felt that there were a few times when the characters were having sex when it wasn’t really appropriate or safe but for the most part I really enjoyed their relationship.
My only issue with the book is that you aren’t really given a back story at all. This is definitely not a stand alone book and I spent a lot fo time (when there wasn’t hot sex going on) wondering who was who and what kind of world this was taking place in. I’m not sure if there is or ever was a plant Earth or how many planets there are, who’s in charge and who are the Imperialists. I really wish there would have been more information given but besides that I really enjoyed this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2012
I’ve got to start by saying that I’m a really big fan of Lauren Dane so this may seem a little bias but I absolutely loved this story! Her Phantom Corps series is phenomenal and I’ve been eagerly awaiting this story for so long. Her initial characters, Vincenz and Julian are a really great couple. They both fight for the Phantom Corps and unfortunately that battle has showed them a lot of death and destruction. They are able to lean on one another to help overcome the trauma of what they have seen or had to do to help the cause. On one mission Vincenz finds Hannah locked in a room where for almost a year she has been kept in almost total isolation. Of course this leaves her scared and weary of anyone she comes in contact with. But there’s something special about Vincenz and Julian that help Hannah heal the emotional wounds inflicted upon her. And when the trust that these three have built blossoms into love, a dynamic and steamy relationship evolves. I loved that this story did not rush Hannah through her trauma and recovery. There was a very believable evolution in her recovery and the relapses she undergoes. I also loved the sassy and independent woman she became. She may have arrived broken but she has recovered and is ready to take on the world. I did think that the ultimate conflict resolution may have moved a little quick for me but it did not take away from the overall enjoyment of the story at all for me. There is some boy/boy touching in this book in case that’s not something you enjoy. But these are very, very sexy men so Ms. Dane may convert you. Great continuation of the series and I really hope for more!
January 16, 2013
A solid three-and-a-half futuristic erotic romance. Though part of a series, it works fine as a stand-alone. I think those who have not read the rest of the series miss a bit of the characters' motivations/backstory, but not enough to matter much.
The tortured hero is a common theme in romance fiction, whether physically or metally. Here we have a tortured heroine fighting her way back to normalcy. Her determination makes her an admirable and lovable woman. Working with her in this are members of the unit that rescued her, initially because they need to retrieve intelligence from her fractured memory, later because her skill set meshes with the mission objectives. Of course, this being an erotic romance, certain team members are working with her more closely than others.
Those following the series will be glad to know there is a return visit to Piper's home and the characters there.
I also think of the team leader as a benevolent commander, who plans his actions to the benefit of his crew's personal lives when possible within mission parameters. Earlier books illustrated this with his recruiting techniques. He allows for flexibility that belies the martial setting. I was glad that the ending hinted at a possible HEA for him, he deserves it.
Though this is a futuristic sci-fi book, it has no paranormal or fantasy elements. The characters in Star Wars would feel at home. I'm keeping this series for future re-reads.
The tortured hero is a common theme in romance fiction, whether physically or metally. Here we have a tortured heroine fighting her way back to normalcy. Her determination makes her an admirable and lovable woman. Working with her in this are members of the unit that rescued her, initially because they need to retrieve intelligence from her fractured memory, later because her skill set meshes with the mission objectives. Of course, this being an erotic romance, certain team members are working with her more closely than others.
Those following the series will be glad to know there is a return visit to Piper's home and the characters there.
I also think of the team leader as a benevolent commander, who plans his actions to the benefit of his crew's personal lives when possible within mission parameters. Earlier books illustrated this with his recruiting techniques. He allows for flexibility that belies the martial setting. I was glad that the ending hinted at a possible HEA for him, he deserves it.
Though this is a futuristic sci-fi book, it has no paranormal or fantasy elements. The characters in Star Wars would feel at home. I'm keeping this series for future re-reads.
May 1, 2012
I really loved this book. Loved the 3 main characters in the menage and how the overall series plot works out. I did think the conclusion felt a little rushed with But at the same time I did think those things were believable. Loved the little bit we get to see at House Lyons and we actually got some sweet screen time with Piper and Andrei. Loved Andrei schooling the boys on how to handle a riled woman (remembering their shock back in Insatiable when they were shocked by Andrei being so open around Piper). I read on another review that this world had a nod to Joss Whedon's Firefly and I have to agree. I can picture scenes from that too-short lived tv series while reading these books. And the sex was steamy and very nice and naughty. We got (I think) a little hint at Ellis's love interest - hope we get to read that story. Would love to have an e-novella of Brandt/Sera/Ash to see them in action again.
I wouldn't recommend this as a stand-alone and would start with Undercover to get the full breadth of these worlds and the citizens fighting for them.
I wouldn't recommend this as a stand-alone and would start with Undercover to get the full breadth of these worlds and the citizens fighting for them.
August 6, 2016
I finally made it to this story. The Phantom Corps series is a bit less emotional for me. This last one was quite good. It's a 3.5 star for me. Ms. Dane is an accomplished writer. Her stories are lovely and her characters are great. The menage in here is hawt. I kind of liked the m/m action more than the mmf.
What I liked about this story is the medical parts to it. I liked how the bio warfare was designed. While the romance part was nice, I didn't feel that vested in the characters. Don't get me wrong, the characters were good. The story is a nice quick wrap up of this world. I guess I felt a bit removed. I hope someday there will be a novella of Commander Eli. He's the one who intrigues me. Seven feet tall, precog, military and totally alpha, how could a gal like me not be enamoured?
What I liked about this story is the medical parts to it. I liked how the bio warfare was designed. While the romance part was nice, I didn't feel that vested in the characters. Don't get me wrong, the characters were good. The story is a nice quick wrap up of this world. I guess I felt a bit removed. I hope someday there will be a novella of Commander Eli. He's the one who intrigues me. Seven feet tall, precog, military and totally alpha, how could a gal like me not be enamoured?
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