Showing posts with label M. Raiya. Show all posts
Showing posts with label M. Raiya. Show all posts

Thursday, July 10, 2014

THE DRAGON AND THE PALM TREE by M. Raiya




Publisher: Torquere Press
Date published: 5/28/14
ISBN: 978-1-61040-756-4
MM, Shapeshifter
E-book
Reviewed by Helen
Weblink: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=96&products_id=4193
Obtained via publisher
Rating: 3



Varian knows that dragons must be able to blend in with humans to survive. And that means being able to catch an airplane to travel. The dragons are terrified they’ll inadvertently shift during a flight, that they won’t be able to cope with not being in control.

This story is part of a series about a group of dragon shifters which I didn’t realize when I chose it. Although the story is complete in itself, it would be better read in sequence with the other books. Multiple characters appear with no introduction, just the assumption the reader will know about them, which I didn’t, and it left me scrambling somewhat. However, the story itself is a good one with enough tension and drama to carry it through, and two very compatible, loving and entertaining main characters in Varian and Josh. The group is predominantly in male/male relationships, but there is some exploration with themes such as cross-dressing and so on, which is probably why this received a higher heat rating. The sex itself is mostly implied. However the affection is very clear. There is no doubt that the characters love and support each other completely.
Dragon lovers and MM aficionados should certainly consider adding this series to their collection.


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



Tuesday, November 6, 2012

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
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.