Review: Fantastic Read
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 02 17, 2013
Pride and sensuality don’t often go together but when they meet the results can be explosive. Afton is a police Inspector and Valorian, a hermaphroditic species. Lefi is a Somian, a species known for their uninhibited sexuality and often acting as professional sex workers or Bacchi. Historically the two very different species don’t have much to do with each other but Afton and Lefi’s explosive chemistry can’t be denied. When a year long seduction finally ends with the two together, both men realize the hardest journey is yet to come.The Bacchi is the third novel set in author McBride’s futuristic/sci-fi world. Each book can be read as a standalone as the series is only loosely connected through the same world and not necessarily staring offshoot characters. Previous characters do make brief appearances but those new to this author or series can read any of the three alone or together and not be lost. This time out stars Afton and Lefi as they navigate a potentially disastrous relationship and try to solve an illegal kidnapping and sexual slavery conspiracy. The plot moves steadily if not exactly fast. I read this one pretty quickly though so the somewhat more tame feeling pace didn’t hinder my enjoyment at all. In fact it makes the story more sensual and fits well with Lefi’s personality and occupation.Both characters are wonderfully three dimensional and interesting. Afton is a hermaphrodite but orients as male. His journey is one of self and sexual discovery that his attraction to Lefi sets off. Afton must learn who he really is and what he really wants while Lefi must try to recover from his broken heart and death of beloved twin. These two men slowly find themselves within the confines of their relationship, providing strength, love, and understanding. The side plot about the sexual slavery syndicate is nicely explored and provides a suitable and fitting backdrop to the drama played out within their relationship.There are few missteps in this one that I found but there are some potential issues for other readers. First because Afton is a hermaphrodite and Lefi is an equal opportunity sex worker, there is some brief m/f sex shown on page. Again, this fits and is used well so don’t let this turn you off. I tend to be purist in my m/m books wanting only that but I honestly didn’t mind the brief m/f here. Also if the book doesn’t engage you pretty quickly the slower pace may drag for some readers. There isn’t a lot of quick action and only a handful of sex scenes so the relationship dynamic has to be the real draw. I easily found myself entertained and interested pretty quickly so hopefully others will too.Originally posted at Long and Short Reviews