Teahouse: Chapter 2 by Emirain

Title: Teahouse (Chapter 2)
Author: Emirain
Format: webcomic

Warning: Review may contain spoilers.

After meeting all the characters in the first chapter, including the mysterious and tall man who's interested in Rory's virgin butt, it's only appropriate that we be met with answers. And answers certainly are met. We learn the name of Mr. "Tall Dark and Rapist," as Lilith likes to call him - which in fact is actually "Reed." We also see in detail why Rhys left such a strong impression on Axis when they first met.

Mm, how steamy. Nothing is better than completely dominating a stubborn straight man with such finesse he forgets everything except how good it feels to be taken.

Also, if you recall, the first time we met Rhys, there was supposed to be a house-wide call. Linneus wasn't present when it happened, because he valued his current client more than someone new. Atros wasn't too happy with that, especially when he found out that Linneus was receiving more than his fair share of rough-housing during sessions.

The actions Atros takes against Liard Arulent come to light, and the way it is executed leads a reader to wonder if Atros is just protective of his whores, or if Linneus is special because of their history. Or is it a mix of both? The mystery that lingers between them is electrifying. It's hard not to wonder and hope there's a personal reason behind Atros' actions, especially when he confronts Linneus later on.

The relationship between Linneus and Atros is certainly complicated. As is Rhys' and Axis' relationship. With the newest pair: Reed and Rory, we now have a full house of emotional and psychological chaos. There are issues of sexuality, of security, of identity, and of purpose. There is so much going on, and so much to consider, it's safe to say we are only just beginning.

This is still just the tip of the iceberg. I hope we figure out what's so special about Rhys' social status, who Reed is, and what will happen between Linneus and Atros down the line. There are so many unanswered questions, it's only a matter of time before all is revealed.

I can't wait for the rest of the story to reveal itself. The art is absolutely lovely and the colors are vivid and eye-catching. That alone will keep me coming back to check on updates.

Overall: 5 out of 5

Feral by Joely Skye

Title: Feral
Author: Joely Skye
Format: book

Shifters. As in shapeshifters. Or, more commonly, weres. In any case, this book is a homoerotic relationship between two shifters of different species. Meet Ethan, a cougar shifter, and Bram, a wolf shifter. As the synopsis goes, Ethan finds himself captured by Bram's pack and confined in a room. Bram becomes his babysitter, delivering his food and making sure nothing happens. And other duties. 

It's pretty commonplace that when two individuals are stuck in each other's company for an extended period of time, their initial relationship changes. For Ethan and Bram, they grow closer - even though it is forbidden for them to do so. 

Bram is the pack's omega (i.e. bottom of the totem pole), so he is obligated to follow the alpha's (Doug) orders to the T. The relationship Bram has with Doug is a complicated one thanks to certain events in the past. However, this complication doesn't seem to be portrayed as smoothly as a reader might hope. I had a problem with connecting with the characters. The fluidity of their conversation and their interactions with each other seemed forced and awkward. 

The wolves' feelings for each other didn't seem genuine, and I had a hard time connecting with either man. Bram especially was hard to sympathize with. I didn't feel like I could reach into his head and empathize with his actions.

As for Ethan, I could partially sympathize with him, but he too lacked enough depth for me to get really involved with his side of the story. The characters as a whole seemed too two-dimensional and shallowly developed. While the plot itself is interesting and had kicked off to a thrilling start, I didn't feel overly compelled to finish the book in one sitting like I might others.

I might have enjoyed the story better if I had a better understanding of the dynamics of either shifter species, and why it was so important to break through these psychological defenses. Or how.

And when it came to the sex... it seemed dry. It wasn't personal enough for my liking, or erotic enough to make me wonder if I should be sitting with a box of tissues at my side. It wasn't so much the description as the method it was told that turned me off. In combination with flat characters, I struggled to find it emotionally drawing. I was overly tempted to just skip it entirely.

I wouldn't recommend this as an 'introductory' book into the genre of gay erotica. But it might still appeal to someone who wants to pass the time with a bit of guy love when there's nothing else to read.

Overall: 2.5 out of 5

Green by Jay Lake

Title: Green
Author: Jay Lake
Format: book


I must admit, the first thing that drew my attention was the cover. I instantly thought "Hey, a ninja girl!" In a sense, I'm not completely wrong. Though the character is not a ninja, she does possess a great deal of athletic ability that is very similar in practice to the Japanese ninjas of old. Her name is Green, just like the title, and she's an unfortunate girl who finds herself a consort of sorts to a man she's never met.

She is groomed to be this unfamiliar (and rich) man's partner, but Green - like any normal girl - doesn't want to comply. She prefers to do things her way. Of course, none of her teachers enjoy that. They are hard on her. This creates for a very sympathetic feeling in the reader. It isn't hard to connect with Green and wish she could have more freedom in her life instead of being confined as she is.

When she does get her freedom, it's just as easy to feel glad for her. Happy for her. But now begs the question: what next? The journey that Green takes from being a consort to pursuing her more adventurous life - the one that is depicted vividly on the book cover - is a peculiar one. She searches for herself and her next purpose, and where she ends up is not to be expected.

I found Green's journey from one turning point in her life to the next to be interesting. I was quite curious to see where she would go. However, there were a few elements about the book that took away from my experience reading it. For one, the pacing. There is a lot of detail and emphasis that goes into the time period when Green is being groomed and confined. While the dedication to this part is fantastic, too much time was taken just building this part up.

By the time we get to the actual "journeying" part of Green's story, it seems to be lacking in content and depth. As if that part wasn't quite as thought out. Also, Green's actions after she finds her freedom gradually seem to fall into chaos. I became unsure about the real purpose of her actions, and where this story was supposed to end.

The problem that stories like this one have, where a character stuck in such a restricted world suddenly finds themselves free of restriction, is the uncertainty once free. It's okay for a character to feel lost, but the reader shouldn't feel that way too. Upon reaching the destination of Green's journey, and the actions she takes to get there, I still feel like there's so much missing and she didn't accomplish anything at all.

The side trips she takes along the way distract me from the purpose of her journey (or what I assume to be her purpose - I'm  not too sure if there actually is one anymore).

I wish there was more coherence with the plot, and a clearer portrayal of Green's mission. For this book, the mystery shouldn't have been the destination, but how to get there. There was much to be desired when I finished this book. There is a sequel (Endurance), but I'm not too sure if I'll give it a look. Maybe somewhere down the road, but I'm not in a rush.

Overall: 3 out of 5

One Foot In The Grave by Jeaniene Frost

Title: One Foot in the Grave
Author: Jeaniene Frost
Format: book


SPOILER ALERT!

I'm not entirely sure where to begin. I suppose I should tell how I felt about it. Simply put, it was disappointing. What I expected out of the book didn't exactly happen, and the progression of events left much to be desired. 


Cat isn't a stupid girl, but sometimes I wonder how she managed to kill all those vampires. Bones may have trained her, and sure she might have a nice body, but her general approach to situations aren't exactly intelligent. (I suppose you can excuse her that since the previous trend of vampires who got close to her didn't really care for her smarts, only the potential for sex and blood. She didn't really need to be super smart to get by.)


But still, I was hoping being associated with a secret governmental organization would... I dunno, do something. Tap into her inner intellect and let it free. Or something. Gain a few wrinkles in her brain. But Cat doesn't really do that. She doesn't think too extensively on a situation. She's more a do and damn the consequences type of person. While that's all good, some situations call for a bit of smarts.


And apart from that, I wish her method of dealing with some situations weren't so... rash? helter-skelter? selfish? I'm having trouble finding the word for it. But the point is, she doesn't seriously consider those around her or their situations. There is no compromise. It's my way or the highway. Because of her position and her value in the organization, she likes to slam her foot on the breaks whenever people mention something she doesn't like. 


i.e. The time when the boys find out she's fraternizing with Bones. Or the time when she figures out Don is related to her. 


Another thing that bothered me was some of Bones' powers. I suppose it's just a way that it was described in the book, since it's all from Cat's POV, but it really threw me off. Like the flying. Some people might see levitation, slow gliding through the air, etc etc. I see Superman in black, minus the body suit, add the dyed hair and fangs. For the life of me I couldn't get it out of my head. Bones + flying = Superman. It wasn't a very elegant imagery. I grimaced very hard and found it hard to read past that point. 


In fact, I struggled through the rest of the book like I was chewing on nails. I'm not entirely sure why, maybe the flying was just the final straw for me while I stumbled through the earlier parts of the book, but after that I couldn't progress past a few pages without putting the book down and waiting out an hour or two before I could come back and continue. (Rinse and repeat.)


I don't think I'll be picking up the next book. This book left a sour taste in my mouth. Someone else might not think so, but my experience was not so pleasant.


Overall: 2.5 out of 5

Ai no Gebokutachi by Shushushu Sakurai

Title: Ai no Gebokutachi
Author: Shushushu Sakurai
Format: manga

What I thought the manga was going to be like didn't turn out to be after all. Ai no Gebokutachi is a mix of comedy and smut in the world of gay boys. It's also a collection of short stories, starting out with Keigo and Gunji who are both single fathers and old coworkers. They secretly like each other but due to a misunderstanding one night after a social party they separated ways and each found themselves a wife and a son.

Their section of the manga plays on the idea of idiot fathers trying to be both responsible while still pursuing a  homoerotic romance with each other. There's a heavy dose of comedy as the two men stumble and try to work around being parents and lovers at the same time.

The next story that follows is of their kids: Keita and Gunkichi. This is several years in the future, when the boys are in high school. I didn't see any specificity of which grade they are in, but that's hardly important. Like fathers, like sons, the boys find themselves attracted to each other. They have been friends since they were young, and their affection has grown since then.

The next one is about a theatre actor (Seiji Suou) and his devoted fan (Ryoichi Kobayashi). Ryoichi pursues Seiji by becoming a stagehand in the theatre company. One day, Seiji invites Ryoichi home and things get a little hot and steamy between them. In time, they become lovers, but then problems arise which reveals a surprising health problem for Seiji.

The last story is about a journalist (Tetsuya Naruse) and childhood friend (Kousuke). Tetsuya returns to his hometown to work in the local journalist company. After learning Kousuke used to be involved with a gang and thus couldn't get a job because of his bad record, Tetsuya pleads for Kousuke to work in the company as an errand boy.

The compilation of stories in this manga is diverse in the sense that there are different settings for each story. Each one is unique from the other. But despite that and how interesting the synopsis for each short story might be, the story telling is disappointing. I find it hard to connect with the characters. Though this is a comedic sort of manga - and there are definitely funny parts throughout the book - I still feel like I should be able to sympathize with the character(s) a little before the plot dives into sex. Or at least understand them.

Not only that, the way the story was told was too fast for my liking. It felt choppy, and parts I felt were key components to draw the reader in were brushed over too lightly. I found some parts hard to follow, not because I couldn't understand, but the transition from scene to scene was too abrupt. I would have preferred if the author took more time to draw the story out, and perhaps even make a bit more profit in their sales if they stretched it into another volume.

Because each story was all so fast and crammed in a single chapter each, there was much to be desired at the end.

Apart from that, the art did not compel me to keep staring. Some stories may have bad plots but their art will keep you looking at the pages and admiring the delicate lines and effort put into place - regardless the genre of story. This manga did not do that for me. What came out strong in Keigo and Gunji's story seemed to deteriorate as I progressed through the chapters. I don't know if the author was rushed to meet their deadline or lost motivation, but by the end of it all I didn't feel moved to go back and read it through again.

Overall: 3 out of 5

Raven Cursed by Faith Hunter

Title: Raven Cursed
Author: Faith Hunter
Format: book


Faith Hunter does it again. This series just keeps getting better and better. Ever since reading Mercy Blade when it first came out, I've been waiting impatiently for this one. I'm glad I finally got to read it.


The questions that were left at the end of Mercy Blade and even Blood Cross have been answered. We also get to see Jane in a different sort of environment. In the past three books, Jane has been housed in the good ole' Cajun South with the exception of few small trips. This time, we get to visit Jane's hometown and learn a bit more about her childhood relations while we dive into the blood and mayhem. 


There is so much going on in this book, I daresay it's the most explosive adventure Jane has ever had yet! Loose ends are being brought together. Unexpected people are playing surprising roles. And Jane has to struggle more than ever to keep a level head. 


With so much chaos erupting around her, it's only a matter of time before she snaps. Seeing Jane's internal battle with her feelings and certain morals she holds close to her heart is truly moving. Even as someone not overly religious, I can appreciate the moments when Jane goes back to her spiritual roots and asked for a bit of guidance during dire times. 


I can also appreciate that, despite the pain Jane experiences, both physically and psychologically, she still manages to truck on. That's our girl, Janie. Like a steamroller. She might complain, she might be afraid, she might cry, but she always pushes forward. Some characters are known for breaking down when faced with aversion too great for them to handle. Jane, no matter the size of trouble, dares to conquer it anyway. I've always enjoyed that hard edge about her, and even more so as I read through this book. 


I had a hard time putting it down. As soon as I started reading, only food and sleep got me to stop. The way Faith Hunter tells the story, sprinkling in details throughout the chapters, giving purpose to all the things that Jane does despite what they look like on the surface, captivated me and got me trying to play detective. It wasn't easy. Or maybe I'm not a good detective. Regardless, I had a blast trying to figure things out as all the clues slowly came together. 


Imagine my surprise when I finally figured out what was going on. Faith Hunter threw us a major curveball this time. She definitely knows how to hit a homerun and hit it hard. Jane hasn't had an opponent like this before, and you have to sympathize with her when she is forced to make a confrontation. 


One thing I also liked was Evan and the coven. I haven't read enough books who detail on the magic that takes place amongst witches/wizards. Well, books that aren't solely focused on their kind, anyway. Seeing the coven take a step up and seeing them in action was surprising -- delightfully so. I warmed up to Evan as I was able to see him from a different light -- he was a big gruffy bear for a reason, and this book makes me want to give the guy a hug and a fist-bump. 


And, of course, what gives this series the cherry is the cliffhanger. The question that never gets answered. The one problem that never gets resolved. As in the rest of the books, there is no solid conclusion at the end, and the piece of meat that is left dangling is a juicy one. Mercy Blade left me screaming to know what was going to happen next. Raven Cursed leaves me stroking my imaginary beard and concocting half-baked theories as I try to figure out where Jane will take us next. I'm really eager to know what's going to happen next. I can't wait for the next installment of this series to come out. 



Overall: 5 out of 5

The Sorcerer's Apprentice (2010) - movie

Title: The Sorcerer's Apprentice (2010)
Director: Jon Turteltaub
Format: live action movie
Length: 109 minutes

Before I start, let me note that this is the Nicholas Cage version of an old animated classic. For those familiar with the original, where Mickey Mouse plays as Merlin's apprentice, this is nothing like it. They aren't similar at all. What Jon Turteltaub does is weave a completely different tale using some of the basic principles that the animation played upon.

We meet main character Balthazar (Nicholas Cage) and open the movie with a small history less about who he is and why he's important. We also see his connection with Merlin, and find he's actually the powerful wizard's apprentice. Fast forward to the future, we meet the second main character of the story: Dave (Jay Baruchel), who is meant to be the successor of Merlin's powers hundreds of years after the man's death.

Turteltaub decides to make the movie modern, to give the audience something that they can connect to. Now, for those who favor the more mystical approach of magic, this might not be your cup of tea. For people who like it urban and modern, then perhaps it's right up your alley.

Dave is an awkward sort of boy who grows even more awkward fresh out of his teen years. He's the sort of sympathetic character who the audience is supposed to sympathize and maybe even empathize with. Baruchel plays awkward very well, fitting into the role of a nerd and social reject nicely. Popularly known for his voice acting as Hiccup in How To Train Your Dragon, Baruchel brings out Dave's inner sarcastic, rattled, shy, yet ambitious personality.

Balthazar is a peculiar, quirky sort of sorcerer who has one thing in mind: his mission. Unfortunately for me, I had some trouble relating to Balthazar. Something about how Cage played him wasn't too convincing for me. I think I was supposed to be awed and kept in wonder about him, but I didn't quite see it. Granted, I've never been a huge fan of Nicholas Cage to begin with, but I tried not to let my previous experience with him ruin the movie.

Tried.

While the movie was fun and had enough spark and adventure to entertain a young audience (as expected of Disney), I expected something a little more... compelling. Something that I, as part of an older crowd, wouldn't cringe at even while watching with nieces or nephews. Disney has made movies that were captivating for all ages before. We've seen them pull something out for a more mature crowd (i.e. Pirates of the Caribbean). But I don't think this movie falls into that category where it can appeal to everyone.

It's mostly for children, probably older children in their later years of elementary and maybe through part of junior high. Kids who like the idea of magic being possible in modern day, who might enjoy other movies like Harry Potter -- the first few before the story gets all dark and dreary, and focuses more on Harry's final battle with Voldemort -- might like this sort of thing.

Honestly, I don't watch a lot of Disney's live action movies, so I can't really name one to compare this movie with. But I'm sure there are a few out there that Disney has churned out in the past handful of years that have a similar vibe to them.

At the very least, it's not the most nerve grating of movies. Parents or older individuals being forced to watch this with kids (like me) probably won't be scarred for the rest of their lives. Some people, who might have a kinder heart towards these sorts of movies could possibly even find it fun. There is a lot of flashing magic and the pace of the movie is relatively fast. You won't feel like you're being dragged along since so much is going on.

Is there better out there? Could the execution have been smoother? Yes. But for what it was, I'll just say: it's for a certain type of audience; if you're not part of it, then don't be surprised if you end up disliking the movie.

Overall: 3 out or 5

Teahouse: Chapter 1 by Emirain

Title: Teahouse (Chapter 1)
Author: Emirain
Format: webcomic


Warning: Review may contain spoilers.


We've seen it before, read it before -- been there, done that. The setting of a whore house is nothing new. But despite this, Emirain brings a new light to the world of "companionship." For one, it's gay. Not every character is gay, mind you, but the story focuses especially on the men and their male counterparts. 


Right from the get-go we are introduced to the cast, including the owner of the brothel, the workers, and some of the patrons. Teahouse opens when one of said patrons comes for a visit. Right away we see the diversity between each of the whores: with Lilith's prudishness, Mercutio's unhealthy obsession with toys, Claret's fancy milk duds, Rory's blushing inexperience, and Axis's fuck-all attitude. And let's not forget the wiry, fragile Linneus, who looks like a walking jeweler's advertisement. 


As introductions are made around, we see that Axis and the visiting patron (Rhys), have a special past. A hot, sexy, drool-worthy past. Though their interaction is short, just two pages in enough to describe the sort of tension between the two characters. We can tell right away that they'll be a fun, feisty pair to watch. 


We also get to see a different sort of special relationship between Linneus and the brothel's owner: Atros. We don't know why they have a different relationship, but it's clear that the bond isn't shared with Atros and the other whores. 


Not to say Atros doesn't get close to anyone else. Ahem. Apparently Atros has no problem bending a few rules to suit his own needs. The things he does seem minor, but there's a hint that it's only the tip of the iceberg. Readers are pulled to be sympathetic towards Linneus, who is the most affected by Atros's actions.

Lastly, we meet one more patron who is bound to leave use with a very strong impression: Reed. He's a foreboding sort or individual who seems dangerous at first glance. A man who suffers no shit. Who he happens to pick out as his companion for the day is surprising -- and perhaps a little scary.

Left at a cliffhanger after the two meet, it's needless to say the audience is kept gripping at their seats for more. There is so much more to tell, so much more to do. Emirain starts off strong and ends the chapter on a high note. Suspense, wonder, anticipation -- these are but a few emotions that might play in a reader's head after getting through this chapter. It's obvious this is just the beginning, and there is so much more ahead.

I find myself part of the crowd that's itching for more. I think you will too.

Overall: 5 out of 5

Fate's Edge by Ilona Andrews

Title: Fate's Edge
Author: Ilona Andrews
Format: book


Another win for the Andrews couple! After peeking at a few teasers before the book came out, I had been tickled with anticipation to see how the shifty Kaldar would be put into the limelight. 


Let's just say, I'm not disappointed. In the first book of The Edge series, we see Rose as the unfortunate one, and Declan as the knight in shining armor who sweeps her off her feet complete with red carpet, jewels, and a flowers. In the second book, we see the unfortunate Will with a dark past and Cerise with a crazy family with anger issues find some sort of peculiar harmony in the madness. So how do we spice things up a little? By have two of the very best criminals go head-to-head and try to get around the barbed fences of their hearts whilst doing a bit of good-doing. 


Ironic? Why yes. And quite humoring too. This whole book is one big laugh. We find ourselves stuck with two unlikely heroes who are better off on the "bad guy" side than the "good guy," yet the viciousness of their enemies make them look like a pair of saints. 


The fast, witty, and suggestive dialogue between Kaldar and Audrey absolutely tickles me. Kaldar constantly tries to get under her skin -- or into her pants -- while Audrey fends him off with sword and shield. They dance around each other like expert fighters, teasing and throwing insults and flattering words left and right without pause. They play the game without losing footing, and it's quite entertaining to see how they occasionally get a rise out of each other. 


I enjoyed the addition of George and Jack into the plot. Since the first book, they didn't really make an appearance in Will/Cerise's story except for their small cameo. Having them return, older, and with a lot more attitude, was fun. Andrews played out their adolescent attitudes and ways of thinking with charming ease. Seeing George show us more of his maturity was interesting too. We see the way his childhood and the changes in his life from Edge to Weird has changed him. We also see how Jack has been coping as well. 


There's a lot of potential for the two boys, and that becomes especially true as they take part in various roles throughout the story. I have an inkling that this won't be the last time we see them step foot in the spotlight, and I hope I'm not wrong. The boys display a strong bond and fierceness that cannot be mistaken. It's no question they are loyal to each other and those close to them, and would tear the world in pieces if necessary. 


The show of compassion between family and loved ones was just overflowing in this story, especially during critical moments. I snickered through the last part of the story as all the pieces and characters came together for the final bang. 


The only thing that was slightly disappointing was the lack of visual when I reached the very very end. To avoid spoilers, let's just say I would have preferred a bit more from Audrey's POV before it switched to Kaldar's. I'm a bit of an action whore and like to see how certain plans take place, so I was hoping for a bit more on that part. 


Apart from all that, the epilogue really stirs my mind and makes me stroke my imaginary beard in excited wonder. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book. I can't wait to see who takes the wheel and drives us through another crazy adventure in the Edge. 


Overall: 4.5

Only Serious About You by Kai Asou

Title: Only Serious About You (Sorenari ni Shinken Nandesu)
Author: Kai Asou
Format: manga


The lovely part about this story is that it isn't insta-love, and it isn't a booty call. The characters start off as acquaintances, and only through a series of events do they develop a closer relationship. Naoki is a single parent, and anyone who is familiar with the role of parenthood knows how challenging it can be to care for a young child. There's always something to take care of, from house chores to school issues to the child themselves. 


Even though Mizu is a sweet and cooperative child, some things that have nothing to do with attitude can be a problem. Namely, sickness. Or the fact that Mizu's mother still has partial custody over her. 


For Naoki, the thought of dealing with a job and a child, the idea of love just doesn't fit into the picture. Though Yoshioka is not easily dissuaded when it comes to pursuing Naoki, Naoki cannot afford to let another person in. 


But like it or not, he cannot avoid Yoshioka. Yoshioka won't leave him alone, and when things become overly complicated for Naoki, Yoshioka is right there to support him. Again and again Yoshioka proves to Naoki that the man needs him, and there's just no way he's going to let him go after witnessing all his vulnerabilities. 


Truly, this is a sweet story touching on the life of two men going through the rough times the life brings them, and coming out of the trenches together more united and happier than before. For anyone wishing to read a story that's not overly dramatic or fantasy, but more down to earth and has a realistic feel to it, then this is story is right up your alley. It pulls at your heartstrings and makes you all warm and fuzzy inside in the end. 


Overall: 5 out of 5