Terry Jackman

This book struck me wrong in several instances. Taking first the story line speed of the story, it was disappointingly slow and I never did figure out what species Ashamet was, although it was not human. Next with regard to the rape, slavery, condescending attitude toward woman, all of which were all unnecessary pieces of the book and did nothing in my estimation to add any quality to the read, The gay sex and constant allusion to gay sex is not my cup of tea, but again neither added anything nor detracted from the story. I have to say overall I was very disappointed with this book. I contemplated setting it aside, but my everlasting hope that things would get better made me finish the book. It didn't get better. I saw the germ of a sequel here. I certainly hope that Terry can pull victory from, in my opinion, a poor and slow start.… (mere)

A story of a dessert prince, Ashamet, who is slowly gaining responsibility and his slave/lover. The story begins a few days before his wedding and he receives a virgin slave, Keril, as a gift. The story goes on to follow Ashamet's life and the twists and turns of various relationships - his father, the priests, his subjects and of course the developing relationship with Keril. He survives a couple assassination attempts with Keri'ls help and is forced to examine if his slave is more than he seems.

I enjoyed the book and the characters with all the political turnings. The plot was interesting and overall a good light read. The only thing that I think detracted from the book was the depiction of female characters (only one was really ever mentioned, but barely described).… (mere)