Review: ~ Review by Christine
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 06 13, 2014
4 of 5 starsFor original review see The Prism Book Alliance Blog onlineAfter a horribly brutal and heartbreaking ending to the previous episode, Dougie is even more firmly entrenched in his loyalty to Nikolai.  The only bond stronger than this is Mat’s love for his brother, despite the part Dougie has played in Mat’s victimization and abuse. The time for the brothers to be sold to a new master is fast approaching, and one can only wonder about the new horrors that await them during what feels like the calm before the storm.In this installment, we see more of Mat and the inner workings of his torment as he struggles with the pain of Dougie’s betrayal and his own guilt over his conflicted feelings for his brother.  I loved how the authors bring his devotion to his brother into the spotlight for a good portion of this episode, even as Mat deals with an increasing hatred for Dougie’s blind adoration of Nikolai and his resulting behavior.We also see both Roger and Nikolai in a different light, as a tenderness and vulnerability towards the brothers becomes more apparent.  Though it is difficult to “like” Nikolai, it is clear that he cares for Dougie in his own warped, twisted way.  Additionally, the reader can’t help but think that Dougie would be much better off with his current master than with the relative unknown who awaits the brothers’ arrival.The new addition to this story, FBI agent Nate Johnson, is a welcome and refreshing break from the brothers’ captivity.  He is a smart, tenacious character who has a deep admiration for Mat, and he brings fresh hope and a new perspective to the series.  I also like his partner, Louise, who brings him the dead-end case on the Charmichael brothers despite his personal, albeit one-sided, attachment to Mat.  As they work through the possibilities on the case, we see that perhaps there is light at the end of the tunnel for Mat and Dougie after all.Though this series is at times extremely difficult to handle, Permanent Record is relatively light compared to previous installments and brings a distinct change to the plot.  Dougie and Mat are on their way to a new owner, and a determined FBI agent is looking into their case.  I am anxious to read the next episode to see what is in store for our tortured boys.