SLOW AWAKENING by M. Raiya

Publisher: Torquere Press

Date published: 9/11/12

ISBN: NA

Erotic Gay Romance, Fantasy Romance

E-book

Reviewed by Helen

Weblink: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=79_111&products_id=3676

Obtained via publisher

 

Set in a fantasy world, this is the story of a king who finds pleasure beyond his wildest dreams tied up in a pleasure cave. Unfortunately, as king, he has duties and responsibilities only he can take care of. Is there hope he can find ongoing happiness?

This short story grabs the reader right from the very start. The king is already in the pleasure caves, tied up. But not for any nefarious purpose. He’s being aroused higher than he’d ever imagined. The Master arouses him almost beyond bearing, and teaches him the joys of pleasure/pain. But a king is not like an ordinary person and there are many different considerations he has to take into account. He also has duties he can’t just ignore.

This is a very short story, just over five thousand words, so there’s not a lot of space for world building and multiple characters. The book is written in first person so we get to know the king very well for the length involved. We learn about the Master from the way he treats the king, which gives us an understanding of, and appreciation for, him. Two other characters round out the book and give us an added understanding of the king as well.

The BDSM sex is very hot and well written, and the resolution is fulfilling.

M. Raiya has done an excellent job within such tight constraints. (Sorry. Bad pun.)

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.