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Task Force Iota #2
Turning Tricks
James Ayala thought life would be smooth sailing once he escaped from a Red Idaho reeducation camp and returned to Blue Oregon. He was supposed to get answers about the biocybernetic chip that made him empathic, face the man who implanted it, and then ride off into the sunset with his new boyfriend, Matt Tennimore. Life, however, has other the bad guy dies without giving them any answers, they left their horse in Idaho, and Gramma Anais finds a parasite on James's implant—one that forces James into isolation.
Matt just got James back to Oregon where he wanted him, and extraneous brain hardware or not, he has no intention of letting him go. But James hesitates to move in with him. Despite his hurt, Matt has to man up and do his job, leaving James behind, while the rest of the team struggles to find the real mastermind behind the implant and the parasitic "Trick"—before it takes over James's brain. But will it be too little, too late to save him?
Matt just got James back to Oregon where he wanted him, and extraneous brain hardware or not, he has no intention of letting him go. But James hesitates to move in with him. Despite his hurt, Matt has to man up and do his job, leaving James behind, while the rest of the team struggles to find the real mastermind behind the implant and the parasitic "Trick"—before it takes over James's brain. But will it be too little, too late to save him?
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2012
11 people are currently reading
368 people want to read
About the author
Anne Tenino
22 books670 followersCatalyzed by her discovery of LGBTQ romance, Anne Tenino left the lucrative fields of art history, non-profit fundraising, and domestic engineering (in that order) to follow her dream of become a starving romance author. For good or ill, her snarky, silly, quasi-British sense of humor came along for the ride.
Anne applies her particular blend of romance, comedy, and gay protagonists to contemporary, scifi, and paranormal tales. Her works have won many awards; her novel, Frat Boy and Toppy, is frequently referred to as a gay romance classic; she’s been featured in RT Book Reviews magazine; she holds the position of VP of Programming at her local RWA chapter; and she’s achieved bestseller status on Amazon’s gay romance list.
Born and raised in Oregon, Anne now lives in Portland with her family, who have all taken a sacred oath never to read her books. When not crocheting genitalia, growing tomatoes, driving teenagers around, or cooking something obscure, she can be found at her computer, procrastinating. Possibly while also lying on the couch, eating bon-bons.
Check out what Anne’s up to now by visiting her site. http://annetenino.com
Links:
Dreamspinner Press: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
Riptide:
http://www.riptidepublishing.com/auth...
Chicks & Dicks:
http://chicksndicks.blogspot.com
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/#!/AnneTenino
Goodreads profile:
http://www.goodreads.com/annetenino
Anne applies her particular blend of romance, comedy, and gay protagonists to contemporary, scifi, and paranormal tales. Her works have won many awards; her novel, Frat Boy and Toppy, is frequently referred to as a gay romance classic; she’s been featured in RT Book Reviews magazine; she holds the position of VP of Programming at her local RWA chapter; and she’s achieved bestseller status on Amazon’s gay romance list.
Born and raised in Oregon, Anne now lives in Portland with her family, who have all taken a sacred oath never to read her books. When not crocheting genitalia, growing tomatoes, driving teenagers around, or cooking something obscure, she can be found at her computer, procrastinating. Possibly while also lying on the couch, eating bon-bons.
Check out what Anne’s up to now by visiting her site. http://annetenino.com
Links:
Dreamspinner Press: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
Riptide:
http://www.riptidepublishing.com/auth...
Chicks & Dicks:
http://chicksndicks.blogspot.com
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/#!/AnneTenino
Goodreads profile:
http://www.goodreads.com/annetenino
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
May 31, 2012
Great sequel to one of my favourite books of 2011, 18% Gray. Like many fans I was thinking this book would be about Laslo (Matt's cousin) and Logan (the soldier from the Red State who was tragically left behind). But obviously the author had more to tell us about Matty and James and this story picks up pretty much straight after 18% finishes. Here we find out exactly what's going on with James's implant and it's pretty scary stuff. The race is on for Matt and his crazy family to save James and there's plenty of action and intrigue along the way.
Matt and James's POV is interspersed with the voice of a strange 'entity' who totally confused me at first but at about 50% I had my 'AHA!' moment and it all made sense. Even though this book has a complete story arc there is a feeling that one of its major purposes is to set up the next story. I felt quite tense and apprehensive while reading because James is so vulnerable. I thought the entity would get him for sure but in the end James's solution was perhaps a little too easy, although .
I'm a huge fan of the way this author captures the emotions and sensuality between her MC's. Matty and James are off the chart smoking hot when they get together. The prospect of losing each other makes for really some romantic scenes and nerve wracking moments.
As an added bonus Miz Horse is back and cuter than ever (although where's Sister Benigna? C'mon Anne, did she finally get laid?? Was it Van? lol). I absolutely, positively CANNOT WAIT for the sequel.
Matt and James's POV is interspersed with the voice of a strange 'entity' who totally confused me at first but at about 50% I had my 'AHA!' moment and it all made sense. Even though this book has a complete story arc there is a feeling that one of its major purposes is to set up the next story. I felt quite tense and apprehensive while reading because James is so vulnerable. I thought the entity would get him for sure but in the end James's solution was perhaps a little too easy, although .
I'm a huge fan of the way this author captures the emotions and sensuality between her MC's. Matty and James are off the chart smoking hot when they get together. The prospect of losing each other makes for really some romantic scenes and nerve wracking moments.
As an added bonus Miz Horse is back and cuter than ever (although where's Sister Benigna? C'mon Anne, did she finally get laid?? Was it Van? lol). I absolutely, positively CANNOT WAIT for the sequel.
June 16, 2017
2.5 Stars
I blame myself for this lower than average rating. I think I waited too long to read this sequel and I was often a bit lost regarding events, characters and momentum. What also adds to my general feelings of "meh" is that this was written in 2012 and clearly, it reads as a series with a HFN ending, but there's not another sequel in sight. Thus I'm kinda bummed.
Regardless, I like Tenino's writing and her smexy stuff is always good. There's great futuristic world building here, but I just couldn't gather the enthusiasm this story deserves.
I blame myself for this lower than average rating. I think I waited too long to read this sequel and I was often a bit lost regarding events, characters and momentum. What also adds to my general feelings of "meh" is that this was written in 2012 and clearly, it reads as a series with a HFN ending, but there's not another sequel in sight. Thus I'm kinda bummed.
Regardless, I like Tenino's writing and her smexy stuff is always good. There's great futuristic world building here, but I just couldn't gather the enthusiasm this story deserves.
tbr
August 7, 2012OMG, that flippin horse is back and on the cover no less. Hilarious!!!
August 11, 2016
I had trouble getting into this sequel (partly because of Djinn), but after half the book, it got much more exciting.
James was like in book 1, but Matt was different, and I did not like him as much.... He was bit clingy, and insecure, which I could not really understand. No reason with James being so loving towards him:-).
Or maybe it was the smaller amount of sex, and the lack of their sexual dynamics, that made me feel Matt's part in this book was diminished.
When the story finally picked up speed, I read it straight through to the end!
And Miz was back. I like Miz!
James was like in book 1, but Matt was different, and I did not like him as much.... He was bit clingy, and insecure, which I could not really understand. No reason with James being so loving towards him:-).
Or maybe it was the smaller amount of sex, and the lack of their sexual dynamics, that made me feel Matt's part in this book was diminished.
When the story finally picked up speed, I read it straight through to the end!
And Miz was back. I like Miz!
September 29, 2012
2.5 Stars
This book was a disappointment. I was happy to find out more about James's enhancement, but I found myself just waiting for the resolution and not enjoying the journey.
First, Matt turned into an emotional sap. Where was the Matt from the first book?
I know I complained about the acronyms in the first book but I didn't expect the author to make such a huge issue of it in this book. I guess it was meant to be funny but I thought it was kind of ridiculous.
I liked the idea of Djinn but I think he took over the focus. Most of the scenes were repetitive and boring.
Worst of all, I missed the humor which was so prevalent in the first book. It was practically nonexistent.
This book was a disappointment. I was happy to find out more about James's enhancement, but I found myself just waiting for the resolution and not enjoying the journey.
First, Matt turned into an emotional sap. Where was the Matt from the first book?
I know I complained about the acronyms in the first book but I didn't expect the author to make such a huge issue of it in this book. I guess it was meant to be funny but I thought it was kind of ridiculous.
I liked the idea of Djinn but I think he took over the focus. Most of the scenes were repetitive and boring.
Worst of all, I missed the humor which was so prevalent in the first book. It was practically nonexistent.
June 21, 2012
In Turning Tricks we return to Matt and James’s story shortly after the end of the engaging 18% Gray. The guys are still sinfully lustful and working out their issues. The faithful third-wheel cohort, Miz Horse, has also safely returned as evidenced by the book cover. The momentum of the first book slows way down here. For the first half of ‘Tricks’ Matt, James, and Miz are stuck on base with Matt’s quirky family, sitting ducks for the bad guys. They are trying to work a solution to the chip implant or ‘trick’ in James’s brain which could go postal at any time. The tension is increased as they discover that James is in danger of being manipulated by the bad guys through the implant.
And there is a new bad guy -- an amorphous, mystery thingy called Djinn -- infusing an inventive element of eroticism and impending danger. Oddly introduced in the very first chapter, confusing and distracting, it takes a while to figure out just what Djinn really is and how it figures into the plot.
The action finally picks up at halfway through the book when Matt is called on a rescue mission pulling him away from James and increasing the tension. This is where the story gets back on track for me -- Tenino is an inventive storyteller and it’s her combination of sci-fi, romance, and adventure that engages me. While I found the story slow moving at the start and the writing a bit clunky at times, I was initially pulled along by wanting to find out James’s fate and finally by Matt’s return to the field. I’m looking forward to Laslo and Logan’s story coming next (hopefully) and a healthier dollop of adventure (hopefully). How Djinn plays into this will be interesting to see.
And there is a new bad guy -- an amorphous, mystery thingy called Djinn -- infusing an inventive element of eroticism and impending danger. Oddly introduced in the very first chapter, confusing and distracting, it takes a while to figure out just what Djinn really is and how it figures into the plot.
The action finally picks up at halfway through the book when Matt is called on a rescue mission pulling him away from James and increasing the tension. This is where the story gets back on track for me -- Tenino is an inventive storyteller and it’s her combination of sci-fi, romance, and adventure that engages me. While I found the story slow moving at the start and the writing a bit clunky at times, I was initially pulled along by wanting to find out James’s fate and finally by Matt’s return to the field. I’m looking forward to Laslo and Logan’s story coming next (hopefully) and a healthier dollop of adventure (hopefully). How Djinn plays into this will be interesting to see.
May 31, 2021
I didn't love this one as much as the first book, but I still enjoyed it quite a bit. Of course I still loved Matt and James together, but this story didn't have quite the smooth quality of the first one. James' emotions felt a little all over the place, but some of that was expected. The biggest downside of this story was Matt having to go out on a mission alone and leaving James behind. It was great to find out more of what has gone into James implant and of course the return of Miz!
I do hope that at some point we get more novels within this series. I'd love to see how things progress as they try to find Djinni and get a certain someone out of Red Idaho. ;)
I do hope that at some point we get more novels within this series. I'd love to see how things progress as they try to find Djinni and get a certain someone out of Red Idaho. ;)
June 23, 2012
I was disappointed in this one. Where the first one was fun, this one was mostly just silly. The relationship between James and Matt crossed the line into melodrama, and ended up just being annoying for the first half of the book. They're supposed to be soldiers, but spend so much time crying over/on one another that it became a little ridiculous.
And I understand why Ms. Tenino did what she did with the taking out all of the acronyms, but it seemed (especially at the beginning) like giving in to peer pressure. I know the scene in the meeting when they're first told the use of acronyms is being banned was supposed to be funny, but it didn't come across that way to me. I was as bored as I've ever been in any meeting where people try to make jokes to make having to be in a meeting more tolerable. And having to learn new names for all of these organizations when the acronyms worked just fine frustrated me. I did forgive her for most of the confusion and frustration when she made the annoying correction app on the com into a plot device. I thought that was brilliant, and made up for most of having to put up with the com for the rest of the story.
The second half of the book felt more like the first, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's obvious this is just the start of a longer series, and I look forward to reading more about Task Force Iota.
And I understand why Ms. Tenino did what she did with the taking out all of the acronyms, but it seemed (especially at the beginning) like giving in to peer pressure. I know the scene in the meeting when they're first told the use of acronyms is being banned was supposed to be funny, but it didn't come across that way to me. I was as bored as I've ever been in any meeting where people try to make jokes to make having to be in a meeting more tolerable. And having to learn new names for all of these organizations when the acronyms worked just fine frustrated me. I did forgive her for most of the confusion and frustration when she made the annoying correction app on the com into a plot device. I thought that was brilliant, and made up for most of having to put up with the com for the rest of the story.
The second half of the book felt more like the first, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's obvious this is just the start of a longer series, and I look forward to reading more about Task Force Iota.
June 23, 2012
Not quite as good as the first book. The author seems to have gotten a bit involved with and attached to the world and, I felt, spent too much time developing the world relative to having fun with the characters.
The sex scenes, while relatively infrequent, are still well written. The villain gets his own chapters throughout the book and is ridiculous, almost as ridiculous as their horse. Still a lot of fun, just not quite the perfect balance of the first book.
The sex scenes, while relatively infrequent, are still well written. The villain gets his own chapters throughout the book and is ridiculous, almost as ridiculous as their horse. Still a lot of fun, just not quite the perfect balance of the first book.
June 4, 2012
Turning Tricks is a sequel to very good 18% Gray and the second book in Task Force Iota series which actually owes its name to this book. The novella continues the story of James Ayala and Matt Tennimore as well as their family, friends and colleagues in futuristic, Blue Oregon.
The story picks up shortly after 18% Gray ended. After returning into the fold of Matt's crazy family, things should be easier for James and Matt, but they only get more complicated. In addition to the growing implant, Anais, Matt's grandmother, finds a parasite in James's head and no one knows how it got there and what it can do to James and other implant receivers. The answers they were hoping for are lost in the explosion that takes the life of the man who experimented on James and his fellow soldiers. The men's relationship is additionally unbalanced by James's uncertainties and his reluctance to move in with Matt.
The relationship between Matt and Jason is deepening. It is obvious not only in the way their empathic connection is evolving, but also in their lovemaking: it's no longer just the expression of attraction and affection, but also reassurance and comfort. Under the circumstances, Matt has to stop being the brat in the relationship and provide anchor and stability for James, which he does admirably. That is not to say that he is completely mature: his insecurities regarding Captain Dallas Levine who had a brief fling with James in the prison camp and, especially, Miz Horse provided some very funny moments. Speaking of Miz Horse, yes, don't worry – she's back and funnier than ever. She was also the protagonist of one of the more touching moments in the book. Author's humor is present and gives the book the lighthearted tone in what could be rather gloomy circumstances. I especially liked how Ms. Tenino dealt with the cursed acronyms I have complained about in the previous book. The solution was perfectly incorporated in the story and made me laugh out loud several times. What can I say: I am a "PlainSpeak bastard" and proud of it. :D
In addition to Miz Horse, many secondary characters from the previous book are back with a few additions: Matt's grandparents, nuns Carmela and Pearl, his cousins Laslo and Jude, Dal Levine, Brandon Farmer (another implant recipient), Captain Torres, etc. It was heartwarming to read how Matt’s family accepted James. We were given a hint about the new pairing that could possibly follow Laslo and Logan's story – Jude and Dal – who show a promise to become a funny couple.
The addition of Djinn, a mysterious entity, provided the needed overreaching story line for the series and hook up for the future books. He was a menacing presence in the background of James and Matt's story; too bad they didn't know about him until the very end and that this situation was resolved too easily, if not completely. As a voice, Djinn both worked and didn't work for me. His childishness and obsessions (with hands and penises) together with his professed superiority should have given us a nice, psychopathic antagonist. We do see results of his machinations or he tells us about them, we do not actually see him much in "action". As a result, Djinn's voice became a bit tiresome later in the story. However, I have high hopes for this character: it will be interesting to see his evolution, discover his secrets and find out what he will do with hands (and penis) once he acquires them.
At times, it was a bit difficult to follow the reasoning of Anais and Pearl in dealing with James's implant as well as political games surrounding Task Force Iota, because they happened behind the scenes. I felt that these parts of the story could have used some editing. This is not an independent book and you have to read 18% Gray first to understand it and fully enjoy it.
Overall, Turning Tricks is a good sequel to 18% Gray. Matt and James became more solid than they were and they still have space to grow, the series got the common story line which promises new and exciting stories, we met some new and interesting new characters. If you are anything like me, you will enjoy it and look forward to Laslo and Logan's story which is coming next. Recommended.
Written for Reviews by Jessewave.
The story picks up shortly after 18% Gray ended. After returning into the fold of Matt's crazy family, things should be easier for James and Matt, but they only get more complicated. In addition to the growing implant, Anais, Matt's grandmother, finds a parasite in James's head and no one knows how it got there and what it can do to James and other implant receivers. The answers they were hoping for are lost in the explosion that takes the life of the man who experimented on James and his fellow soldiers. The men's relationship is additionally unbalanced by James's uncertainties and his reluctance to move in with Matt.
The relationship between Matt and Jason is deepening. It is obvious not only in the way their empathic connection is evolving, but also in their lovemaking: it's no longer just the expression of attraction and affection, but also reassurance and comfort. Under the circumstances, Matt has to stop being the brat in the relationship and provide anchor and stability for James, which he does admirably. That is not to say that he is completely mature: his insecurities regarding Captain Dallas Levine who had a brief fling with James in the prison camp and, especially, Miz Horse provided some very funny moments. Speaking of Miz Horse, yes, don't worry – she's back and funnier than ever. She was also the protagonist of one of the more touching moments in the book. Author's humor is present and gives the book the lighthearted tone in what could be rather gloomy circumstances. I especially liked how Ms. Tenino dealt with the cursed acronyms I have complained about in the previous book. The solution was perfectly incorporated in the story and made me laugh out loud several times. What can I say: I am a "PlainSpeak bastard" and proud of it. :D
In addition to Miz Horse, many secondary characters from the previous book are back with a few additions: Matt's grandparents, nuns Carmela and Pearl, his cousins Laslo and Jude, Dal Levine, Brandon Farmer (another implant recipient), Captain Torres, etc. It was heartwarming to read how Matt’s family accepted James. We were given a hint about the new pairing that could possibly follow Laslo and Logan's story – Jude and Dal – who show a promise to become a funny couple.
The addition of Djinn, a mysterious entity, provided the needed overreaching story line for the series and hook up for the future books. He was a menacing presence in the background of James and Matt's story; too bad they didn't know about him until the very end and that this situation was resolved too easily, if not completely. As a voice, Djinn both worked and didn't work for me. His childishness and obsessions (with hands and penises) together with his professed superiority should have given us a nice, psychopathic antagonist. We do see results of his machinations or he tells us about them, we do not actually see him much in "action". As a result, Djinn's voice became a bit tiresome later in the story. However, I have high hopes for this character: it will be interesting to see his evolution, discover his secrets and find out what he will do with hands (and penis) once he acquires them.
At times, it was a bit difficult to follow the reasoning of Anais and Pearl in dealing with James's implant as well as political games surrounding Task Force Iota, because they happened behind the scenes. I felt that these parts of the story could have used some editing. This is not an independent book and you have to read 18% Gray first to understand it and fully enjoy it.
Overall, Turning Tricks is a good sequel to 18% Gray. Matt and James became more solid than they were and they still have space to grow, the series got the common story line which promises new and exciting stories, we met some new and interesting new characters. If you are anything like me, you will enjoy it and look forward to Laslo and Logan's story which is coming next. Recommended.
Written for Reviews by Jessewave.
April 12, 2014
'Turning Tricks' is book two in Anne Tenino's 'Task Force Iota' series and after greatly enjoying the first book, I was excited to jump into this installment. It was wonderful to be reunited with Matt, James, the grandpas who run Queer Extraction Services Association, and the killer grandma. I mean that literally, by the way, she's a highly trained operative. *snort* I might've forgotten to mention her in my review of book one. But, if you've been a good reader, then you've already read the first one and you know what I'm talking about.
You would think that after the craziness of the first book with Matt and James just barely surviving, the author would give them a break. No such luck. It's only been a month that they've been safe in Blue Oregon but the discoveries regarding James's implant aren't good ones. Task Force Iota is created by executive order and before it can be implemented, the president suspends it. Iota is meant to track down the main culprit responsible for these implants and the individual who managed to hack the Pentagon's system, plus tracking down the other five Special Forces members who were implanted. Political maneuvering the way it goes leaves James hanging out to dry. That's all before they discover there is some kind of larvae or pupa growing in James's brain right next to his implant. This poor guy and his brain. On the plus side, though, their horse, Miz, manages to find her way home to them making James very happy.
Matt's family is indescribably amusing, at all times. Luckily, they're also highly skilled at what they do, so even though the president has suspended Task Force Iota, Matt, grandpa Lance, and grandma Anais get prepared to "convince" the powers that be to activate Iota, no matter what. When Anais does further investigating into the organic parasite lodged next to the implant, her findings are frightening, for all persons involved. It would appear that the organism is designed to house an Artificial Intelligence and work from within James's brain. Ugh. Because of this discovery, James is moved to a secure location in hopes of preventing an upload. And Matt is sent on a retrieval mission to bring back one of the other soldiers with an implant.
I really love the way this author subtly, very subtly, mixes drama with sarcastic humor. The voice of the Artificial Intelligence, Djinn, that is created to be linked with a human and its implant, well, it's hysterically funny in a very mad scientist, evil-being-gonna-rule-the-world kind of way. Those snippets provided much needed laughter from a story that, otherwise, could have been overly dramatic. I enjoyed this book just as much as the first one and based on this ending, there is definitely more in the works for this series. Matt and James got their happy ending (smirk) and now I'm looking forward to more about Djinn and that story.
Great job, Anne, and thank you for this world. I continue to find it utterly fascinating.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
You would think that after the craziness of the first book with Matt and James just barely surviving, the author would give them a break. No such luck. It's only been a month that they've been safe in Blue Oregon but the discoveries regarding James's implant aren't good ones. Task Force Iota is created by executive order and before it can be implemented, the president suspends it. Iota is meant to track down the main culprit responsible for these implants and the individual who managed to hack the Pentagon's system, plus tracking down the other five Special Forces members who were implanted. Political maneuvering the way it goes leaves James hanging out to dry. That's all before they discover there is some kind of larvae or pupa growing in James's brain right next to his implant. This poor guy and his brain. On the plus side, though, their horse, Miz, manages to find her way home to them making James very happy.
Matt's family is indescribably amusing, at all times. Luckily, they're also highly skilled at what they do, so even though the president has suspended Task Force Iota, Matt, grandpa Lance, and grandma Anais get prepared to "convince" the powers that be to activate Iota, no matter what. When Anais does further investigating into the organic parasite lodged next to the implant, her findings are frightening, for all persons involved. It would appear that the organism is designed to house an Artificial Intelligence and work from within James's brain. Ugh. Because of this discovery, James is moved to a secure location in hopes of preventing an upload. And Matt is sent on a retrieval mission to bring back one of the other soldiers with an implant.
I really love the way this author subtly, very subtly, mixes drama with sarcastic humor. The voice of the Artificial Intelligence, Djinn, that is created to be linked with a human and its implant, well, it's hysterically funny in a very mad scientist, evil-being-gonna-rule-the-world kind of way. Those snippets provided much needed laughter from a story that, otherwise, could have been overly dramatic. I enjoyed this book just as much as the first one and based on this ending, there is definitely more in the works for this series. Matt and James got their happy ending (smirk) and now I'm looking forward to more about Djinn and that story.
Great job, Anne, and thank you for this world. I continue to find it utterly fascinating.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
July 22, 2012
I enjoyed the first book in these series and another book by this writer so very much that I was very reluctant to start this one, due to friend's negative comment. I caved in eventually because I wanted to form my own opinion, but got the book as a kindle loan from another friend.
I did not like it, unfortunately. The book seemed unfocused and boring. The first 35-40% of the story is spent discussing things, which sadly did not engage me in the slighest. James and Matt seemed to lost almost all the chemistry that they had in book one, few tender moments just could not compensate me for the rest of it. Their misunderstandings till the serious things are discovered felt silly to me.
Humor just dissappeared from this book and when I say dissappear, I mean *completely* dissappear. I did not smile once during the whole story. Of course I did not need this book to turn into completely lighhearted fun - there are some serious and even life threatening events happen in it. At the same time serious things happen in the book one as well and humor was there, not sure what was so different about this one.
But even the action in this book was not exciting to me. Master Djinn'ss interludes were just really annoying and I could not wait for them to be over. The the resolution was happy but keeping the doors firmly open for another books in the series.
It was competently written, but I just did not enjoy the story at all and cannot recommend it.
I did not like it, unfortunately. The book seemed unfocused and boring. The first 35-40% of the story is spent discussing things, which sadly did not engage me in the slighest. James and Matt seemed to lost almost all the chemistry that they had in book one, few tender moments just could not compensate me for the rest of it. Their misunderstandings till the serious things are discovered felt silly to me.
Humor just dissappeared from this book and when I say dissappear, I mean *completely* dissappear. I did not smile once during the whole story. Of course I did not need this book to turn into completely lighhearted fun - there are some serious and even life threatening events happen in it. At the same time serious things happen in the book one as well and humor was there, not sure what was so different about this one.
But even the action in this book was not exciting to me. Master Djinn'ss interludes were just really annoying and I could not wait for them to be over. The the resolution was happy but keeping the doors firmly open for another books in the series.
It was competently written, but I just did not enjoy the story at all and cannot recommend it.
October 3, 2015
I love this series. There's mild angst and melodrama, but I love that stuff. There wasn't enough life and death stuff but these two are so totally in love, it makes up for it. However, once again, the title is completely ridiculous in order to titillate and has no bearing on the story whatsoever.
The prologue and the first chapter were great. I like when a series starts out with something funny. I also am so glad the horse came back. I am not, nor have I ever been into horses. The couple of times I rode I was terrible and scared. But I LOVE this horse, LOVE her, although how someone can run and jump on a horse and end up in front of the person riding, I have no idea.
I'm frustrated that they didn't yet deal with what happened at the end of the first book with Laslo, just hinted at it and talked about the characters, but hopefully the next book will, although it hasn't come out yet.
I don't like that they moved a little more into fantasy with the whole djinn thing, but I loved the character. I laughed out loud about him sometimes.
The ending
The prologue and the first chapter were great. I like when a series starts out with something funny. I also am so glad the horse came back. I am not, nor have I ever been into horses. The couple of times I rode I was terrible and scared. But I LOVE this horse, LOVE her, although how someone can run and jump on a horse and end up in front of the person riding, I have no idea.
I'm frustrated that they didn't yet deal with what happened at the end of the first book with Laslo, just hinted at it and talked about the characters, but hopefully the next book will, although it hasn't come out yet.
I don't like that they moved a little more into fantasy with the whole djinn thing, but I loved the character. I laughed out loud about him sometimes.
The ending
July 21, 2012
3.5 stars for originality!
At first I was completely confused. There was an ameoba with a god complex talking to itself. I couldn't remember everyone's names and relationships. And new players were thrown in the mix. But eventually it all came together for the most part and I could appreciate the complexity of the story. The plot of the series was forwarded a great deal in this installment but the romance between Matt and James not so much. I find myself at this point not as interested in their relationship as I am in some of the other characters (Logan, Judge, etc)
Looking forward to the next piece of this puzzle!
At first I was completely confused. There was an ameoba with a god complex talking to itself. I couldn't remember everyone's names and relationships. And new players were thrown in the mix. But eventually it all came together for the most part and I could appreciate the complexity of the story. The plot of the series was forwarded a great deal in this installment but the romance between Matt and James not so much. I find myself at this point not as interested in their relationship as I am in some of the other characters (Logan, Judge, etc)
Looking forward to the next piece of this puzzle!
February 13, 2015
4.5 really,
I don't know what it is about these books but I want more. I felt like I was left hanging BADLY and if I didn't love them so much I would have given it 1 star for it's ending. If there isn't a 3rd full novel coming, which I haven't looked throughly for but hard enough. I give it 1 star for the entire series. Is there a 3rd novel coming? Surely that seriously can't be the end.
I don't know what it is about these books but I want more. I felt like I was left hanging BADLY and if I didn't love them so much I would have given it 1 star for it's ending. If there isn't a 3rd full novel coming, which I haven't looked throughly for but hard enough. I give it 1 star for the entire series. Is there a 3rd novel coming? Surely that seriously can't be the end.
May 31, 2012
4.5 stars
June 8, 2012
3,5 stars. That half star is just for Miz :D
January 31, 2025
I found the first two books read like one long book, which left a lot of questions unanswered. What happened to Sister Maligna? Where's the happy ending for Laslo? The rescue of Logan was only teased as a plan, but never realised. They deserve their own book, or two. The story arc with the Bad Guy also never came to a resolution.
Other than that, I liked the world-building and the humour, and I was kind of vindicated by PlainSpeak (*snicker*) because I was a bit overwhelmed with acronyms in the first book. Overall, the books feel a bit rough around the edges, but very promising. I'd read a sequel in a heartbeat, but sadly, after over a decade, I don't think I'll ever be able to.
Other than that, I liked the world-building and the humour, and I was kind of vindicated by PlainSpeak (*snicker*) because I was a bit overwhelmed with acronyms in the first book. Overall, the books feel a bit rough around the edges, but very promising. I'd read a sequel in a heartbeat, but sadly, after over a decade, I don't think I'll ever be able to.
January 30, 2018
I liked this more than the first book; after reading this one,
18% Gray
becomes more of a prologue to an ongoing series. Unfortunately, there are only the two books published to date, and I really want to know what happens next!
The book picks up with Matt and James pretty much where the last one left off. I like established couples, and stories where the same couple features in more than one book, so I was pleased to get the continuation of their story.
There is a nice balance between action, intrigue and the ongoing relationship between the two MCs, and the new story line, involving a mysterious third PoV character was very well done, with just enough facts given away to keep me guessing.
The story ended on a firm HFN for James and Matt, although I have a feeling that a new couple may feature in the next book. Although, I would be just as happy with more James and Matt.
4.5 stars
The book picks up with Matt and James pretty much where the last one left off. I like established couples, and stories where the same couple features in more than one book, so I was pleased to get the continuation of their story.
There is a nice balance between action, intrigue and the ongoing relationship between the two MCs, and the new story line, involving a mysterious third PoV character was very well done, with just enough facts given away to keep me guessing.
The story ended on a firm HFN for James and Matt, although I have a feeling that a new couple may feature in the next book. Although, I would be just as happy with more James and Matt.
4.5 stars
did-not-finish
December 8, 2019***dnf @17 pages***
The 'plot' was... I just didn't care. Also the amount of 'I love you's' was weird.
It's weird to think that once upon a time I adored the author. I'm beginning to think their books aren't for me anymore...
The 'plot' was... I just didn't care. Also the amount of 'I love you's' was weird.
It's weird to think that once upon a time I adored the author. I'm beginning to think their books aren't for me anymore...
August 21, 2019
A good book, but I didn't care for it as much as I did the first one
April 30, 2022
Overall satisfying, although I wish there was another full story written to give us more from here.
July 12, 2012
A pretty good sequel to the first book in the series,
18% Gray
. (My review of the first book can be found here.)
After reading the first book, I initially thought the next one would be Laslo and Logan's story but having James and Matt taking the center stage again didn't really disappoint me. In fact, this novella is crucial to the development of Logan as a character; I won't spoil any details but he is more important to the entire plot than he seemed to be in the first book. He's not a mere love interest anymore. Anyway, this wasn't as good as the first book - for a certain reason I will write down below - but it also had its own strengths, like the thing with Logan.
In this book, I felt like James's and Matt's voices weren't as easily distinguishable anymore. At times I found myself reading an entire paragraph over again to make sure I knew just whose narrative I was reading. I suppose there was a certain sense of melancholy due to the vulnerability of James, and it might have washed out some of James's stoicism and Matt's snark at times. There were certain instances where the personalities came to life again, especially with Matt when he was interacting with his cousin, Jude. Overall, though, it seems like their individual voices were lost and James and Matt sort of blended together, if that makes sense.
Anyway, that's probably my only complaint in regards to this book. The supporting cast here is larger and, for me at least, they all came to life - particularly Anais. Her grumpy and no-nonsense personality was perfectly captured and I could imagine her in my mind. The book also provides a transition for the supporting cast, slowly building them as characters who will eventually take on their own lead roles. Like I said above, Logan's role in the series becomes more significant, and we are given hints in regards to a third couple for the series. Also, the introduction of another entity - called the "Djinn" - became a focal point in the novella. I felt that Djinn's voice was really well-developed and I was actually a bit disturbed by his fascination with penises, although maybe the author did intentionally try to make it a bit disturbing and a bit funny.
Also, after being separated from James and Matt in the previous book, Miz Horse is back! Of course, her reappearance causes a problem with Matt at first... This problem and the eventual resolution, to me, showed big developments in James and Matt's relationship. The deepening of James and Matt's relationship, interspersed with the external side of the plot, was another strength of the novella. In the first book, James and Matt seemed to be a bit distant since they were just learning to move on from a past incident that made Matt a bit bitter. Here, they're fostering a real relationship and it shows.
I mentioned the external side of the plot in my previous paragraph. Yes, we get some action in the second half of the book, for which I am grateful. I loved all the action from the first book and I appreciated it here in the second book, especially after all the meetings in the first half of Turning Tricks. The first half was a bit slow in terms of action, but it relied heavily on the raising of questions the development of the relationship, whereas the second half revolved around the attempt to answer the questions and the action scenes. (I had a couple of theories in regards to the villains, but they were quickly slashed by new revelations.)
All in all, a strong sequel to the first book, despite not being as good. It raised a lot of questions and it still has me guessing and thinking, and I know for certain it won't all get resolved in the next book. Still, it's a good transition and I'm looking forward to Laslo and Logan's story.
After reading the first book, I initially thought the next one would be Laslo and Logan's story but having James and Matt taking the center stage again didn't really disappoint me. In fact, this novella is crucial to the development of Logan as a character; I won't spoil any details but he is more important to the entire plot than he seemed to be in the first book. He's not a mere love interest anymore. Anyway, this wasn't as good as the first book - for a certain reason I will write down below - but it also had its own strengths, like the thing with Logan.
In this book, I felt like James's and Matt's voices weren't as easily distinguishable anymore. At times I found myself reading an entire paragraph over again to make sure I knew just whose narrative I was reading. I suppose there was a certain sense of melancholy due to the vulnerability of James, and it might have washed out some of James's stoicism and Matt's snark at times. There were certain instances where the personalities came to life again, especially with Matt when he was interacting with his cousin, Jude. Overall, though, it seems like their individual voices were lost and James and Matt sort of blended together, if that makes sense.
Anyway, that's probably my only complaint in regards to this book. The supporting cast here is larger and, for me at least, they all came to life - particularly Anais. Her grumpy and no-nonsense personality was perfectly captured and I could imagine her in my mind. The book also provides a transition for the supporting cast, slowly building them as characters who will eventually take on their own lead roles. Like I said above, Logan's role in the series becomes more significant, and we are given hints in regards to a third couple for the series. Also, the introduction of another entity - called the "Djinn" - became a focal point in the novella. I felt that Djinn's voice was really well-developed and I was actually a bit disturbed by his fascination with penises, although maybe the author did intentionally try to make it a bit disturbing and a bit funny.
Also, after being separated from James and Matt in the previous book, Miz Horse is back! Of course, her reappearance causes a problem with Matt at first... This problem and the eventual resolution, to me, showed big developments in James and Matt's relationship. The deepening of James and Matt's relationship, interspersed with the external side of the plot, was another strength of the novella. In the first book, James and Matt seemed to be a bit distant since they were just learning to move on from a past incident that made Matt a bit bitter. Here, they're fostering a real relationship and it shows.
I mentioned the external side of the plot in my previous paragraph. Yes, we get some action in the second half of the book, for which I am grateful. I loved all the action from the first book and I appreciated it here in the second book, especially after all the meetings in the first half of Turning Tricks. The first half was a bit slow in terms of action, but it relied heavily on the raising of questions the development of the relationship, whereas the second half revolved around the attempt to answer the questions and the action scenes. (I had a couple of theories in regards to the villains, but they were quickly slashed by new revelations.)
All in all, a strong sequel to the first book, despite not being as good. It raised a lot of questions and it still has me guessing and thinking, and I know for certain it won't all get resolved in the next book. Still, it's a good transition and I'm looking forward to Laslo and Logan's story.
November 13, 2013
This book is the second in a series that must be read in order or you won’t fully understand the concept behind the characters, world and storyline.
Matt Tennimore and James Ayala managed to make it out of Red Idaho and have now returned to Blue Oregon, and Matt’s insane family. You know that old saying ‘no rest for the wicked’? The tenuous relationship between these two must endure a few more hurdles before they can have their happily ever after. The parasite in James’s brain that enhances his psychic abilities has become dangerous, and Anais isolates him in an attempt to isolate the problem. While James is dealing with the ramifications of the implant, Matt is sent back into the Red zone for another extraction. If James survives the ever evolving implant and Matt survives the extraction; will their still fragile relationship survive the anxiety that is a result of separation?
A lot of the things I loved about the first book were sadly missing in this book. Matt’s fierceness was absent, and that was one of his best qualities. He was overly emotional which bordered on annoying. There was a dry, witty humor surrounding 18 % as well that was rarely seen in this installment. I’ll give the author a pass on that aspect though as the story went a little darker this time around. Matt’s crazy and eccentric family are just as kooky as ever though, and the overwhelming attraction that Matt and James share was ever present.
While the first half of the book is melodramatic, confusing and a bit slow; the story does pick up and remind the reader why you picked up the book in the first place. Because Tenino is an inventive writer and this world she has created is still highly engaging. So while I didn’t love this book, I did like it. I still recommend this series, especially if you are a fan of the sci-fi/dystopian genre. Matt and James are still as sexy as ever and I look forward to seeing where Tenino goes with the relationship between Logan and Lazlo!
Matt Tennimore and James Ayala managed to make it out of Red Idaho and have now returned to Blue Oregon, and Matt’s insane family. You know that old saying ‘no rest for the wicked’? The tenuous relationship between these two must endure a few more hurdles before they can have their happily ever after. The parasite in James’s brain that enhances his psychic abilities has become dangerous, and Anais isolates him in an attempt to isolate the problem. While James is dealing with the ramifications of the implant, Matt is sent back into the Red zone for another extraction. If James survives the ever evolving implant and Matt survives the extraction; will their still fragile relationship survive the anxiety that is a result of separation?
A lot of the things I loved about the first book were sadly missing in this book. Matt’s fierceness was absent, and that was one of his best qualities. He was overly emotional which bordered on annoying. There was a dry, witty humor surrounding 18 % as well that was rarely seen in this installment. I’ll give the author a pass on that aspect though as the story went a little darker this time around. Matt’s crazy and eccentric family are just as kooky as ever though, and the overwhelming attraction that Matt and James share was ever present.
While the first half of the book is melodramatic, confusing and a bit slow; the story does pick up and remind the reader why you picked up the book in the first place. Because Tenino is an inventive writer and this world she has created is still highly engaging. So while I didn’t love this book, I did like it. I still recommend this series, especially if you are a fan of the sci-fi/dystopian genre. Matt and James are still as sexy as ever and I look forward to seeing where Tenino goes with the relationship between Logan and Lazlo!
March 30, 2017
4,5 stars, rounded up to 5.
Forturnately I re-read 18% Gray a couple of months ago, so I didn't have any problems remembering who everyone was, like some other reviewers did. I can see how that could have been a problem though, since there are so many characters to keep track of. However, one of the reasons why I love Anne Tenino's writings is the fact that she adds well rounded secondary characters, both male and female to her stories.
Like I said, I love Ms Tenino's writings and I really liked visiting Matt and James again, but my biggest problem with this book was that it's too short! It's about 100 pages shorter than 18% Gray and I would have liked those extra 100 pages added to this book too!
As it was, it felt a little like a transport story to the next book (which I hope will be out soon!) and there were scenes and issues that I would have liked to be expanded upon. I also missed some of the funniness of the first book.
However, I just love Matt and James and loved seeing their realtionship evolve and I would very much like to read more about them!
I'm a bit sad that the next book in the Task Force Iota-series will not focus on Matt and James, but as long as it doesn't focus on the ultra-annoying and immature Jude, I'll probably be happy. :-)
Forturnately I re-read 18% Gray a couple of months ago, so I didn't have any problems remembering who everyone was, like some other reviewers did. I can see how that could have been a problem though, since there are so many characters to keep track of. However, one of the reasons why I love Anne Tenino's writings is the fact that she adds well rounded secondary characters, both male and female to her stories.
Like I said, I love Ms Tenino's writings and I really liked visiting Matt and James again, but my biggest problem with this book was that it's too short! It's about 100 pages shorter than 18% Gray and I would have liked those extra 100 pages added to this book too!
As it was, it felt a little like a transport story to the next book (which I hope will be out soon!) and there were scenes and issues that I would have liked to be expanded upon. I also missed some of the funniness of the first book.
However, I just love Matt and James and loved seeing their realtionship evolve and I would very much like to read more about them!
I'm a bit sad that the next book in the Task Force Iota-series will not focus on Matt and James, but as long as it doesn't focus on the ultra-annoying and immature Jude, I'll probably be happy. :-)
November 17, 2013
I enjoyed this sequel to 18% Gray but not quite as much as the original. There are a lot of characters, both from the previous story and new. Add to that the character that is AI, Artificial Intelligence, and it got a bit confusing. I think if I had read the first story recently, this would have been easier but I had to re-establish the story in my mind and my mind wasn't cooperating too well.
I must say that Ms. Tennino can certainly build an interesting futuristic world. And I'm thankful that she explored the relationship between Matt and James much more in this one than in the first and allowed for quite a few hot scenes as well as sweetly romantic moments. I'm going read the last book in the series, the short story Happy Birthday to Me right now so my mind won't play tricks on me.
I do recommend this one to any readers who enjoy an entertaining and complex trip to the future of the US and, of course, to those who'd like a little m/m romance thrown into the mix.
I must say that Ms. Tennino can certainly build an interesting futuristic world. And I'm thankful that she explored the relationship between Matt and James much more in this one than in the first and allowed for quite a few hot scenes as well as sweetly romantic moments. I'm going read the last book in the series, the short story Happy Birthday to Me right now so my mind won't play tricks on me.
I do recommend this one to any readers who enjoy an entertaining and complex trip to the future of the US and, of course, to those who'd like a little m/m romance thrown into the mix.
November 24, 2012
I definitely think I should have read this book closer to the first story, because I felt a bit lost on catching up with the universe and the events of the first book. I remembered insufficient bits on my own, and though the story did a decent job of catching me back up, I did feel a bit lost part of the time. That's my own fault.
This one picks up around a month after the last one left off. We continue to follow James in trying to figure out what's going on in his head, and we meet a new player in the game, an artificial intelligence which has been manipulating researchers into helping to achieve its goal. And it looks like James and the other specially chipped Psi-Forces might just be a part of that plan.
In the meantime, not only is James's implant enhancing, but something else has attached to the implant and his brain, and they have to figure out what it is, why it's there, how and when it got there, and then figure out how to keep it from doing what it appears to be intended for.
All in all, a very entertaining read, and it's shaping into a very interested and well-thought series.
I was sort of hoping this was Laslo & Logan's story, but apparently that one's to be next? I'll definitely be reading that one.
This one picks up around a month after the last one left off. We continue to follow James in trying to figure out what's going on in his head, and we meet a new player in the game, an artificial intelligence which has been manipulating researchers into helping to achieve its goal. And it looks like James and the other specially chipped Psi-Forces might just be a part of that plan.
In the meantime, not only is James's implant enhancing, but something else has attached to the implant and his brain, and they have to figure out what it is, why it's there, how and when it got there, and then figure out how to keep it from doing what it appears to be intended for.
All in all, a very entertaining read, and it's shaping into a very interested and well-thought series.
I was sort of hoping this was Laslo & Logan's story, but apparently that one's to be next? I'll definitely be reading that one.
November 18, 2014
synopsis:
matt and james are settling into their lives after matt rescued james. the government is working feverishly to discover what exactly has been implanted in james' head, and if there is anything that they can do to stop the growth. matt is also dealing with some insecurities regarding james, because james refuses to move in with him. when matt has to go on a mission to rescue another operative who has had an implant like the one james has received because they are worried that the circuit in james' head might be activated, neither of them want to be away from each other.
what i liked: seeing matt and james again. i also liked watching matt deal more with his family. and miz finding them was great too, although she didn't have as many altercations with matt. i liked that the connection between matt and james was building, and not because of james' abilities, but because they were getting to know one another better.
what i didn't like: while i enjoyed seeing that there was something that they are fighting that they don't realize, the story wasn't that long, so it kind of took away from the main attraction.
matt and james are settling into their lives after matt rescued james. the government is working feverishly to discover what exactly has been implanted in james' head, and if there is anything that they can do to stop the growth. matt is also dealing with some insecurities regarding james, because james refuses to move in with him. when matt has to go on a mission to rescue another operative who has had an implant like the one james has received because they are worried that the circuit in james' head might be activated, neither of them want to be away from each other.
what i liked: seeing matt and james again. i also liked watching matt deal more with his family. and miz finding them was great too, although she didn't have as many altercations with matt. i liked that the connection between matt and james was building, and not because of james' abilities, but because they were getting to know one another better.
what i didn't like: while i enjoyed seeing that there was something that they are fighting that they don't realize, the story wasn't that long, so it kind of took away from the main attraction.
May 25, 2013
I don't remember learning much about Matt and James' personalities in the last book, but I would prefer to have kept it unknown compared to what we were shown in this book. It's understandable why James might often felt shaken throughout the book, but Matt went from a agent in control of his life to a sobbing mess
Also the book opened off with how James implant was effecting Matt, and but never tried to address it. Just seem like a convenient "oh lookie we have mind bond between us only", a bit like how Matt was the only one capable to shielding his mind in the first book.
The Djinn was hilarious, with the usual bad guy "cannot put name to any accomplice" talk, and especially at the end when it was implied that they will attempt to hunt it down
I'm glad the acronyms were thrown out, but at the same time how this was done felt like a jab to the readers of the first book.
Also the book opened off with how James implant was effecting Matt, and but never tried to address it. Just seem like a convenient "oh lookie we have mind bond between us only", a bit like how Matt was the only one capable to shielding his mind in the first book.
The Djinn was hilarious, with the usual bad guy "cannot put name to any accomplice" talk, and especially at the end when it was implied that they will attempt to hunt it down
I'm glad the acronyms were thrown out, but at the same time how this was done felt like a jab to the readers of the first book.
June 13, 2012
A good sequel to the first book. I thought this book would focus on Laslo and Logan but it didn't. It continues a little after where book one left off and readers get to discover how far the experiment/conspiracy has gone with the enhanced human/converged trans-human being. It was a nice read although the parts with Djinn (the Amoeba) took a little more focus for me to really understand, it was not something I wanted to slow down to read, so that I was sure I got what was being really said.
The concept of an AI-human soldier was an interesting idea although there were somethings that I thought were getting a bit farfetched when concerning the development of James brain. I loved Matt's kooky family they were so amusing and cute. Miz as always was a lovely horse and I look forward to the next installment which I hope will focus on Logan and Laslo if not wholly than at least a good amount.
The concept of an AI-human soldier was an interesting idea although there were somethings that I thought were getting a bit farfetched when concerning the development of James brain. I loved Matt's kooky family they were so amusing and cute. Miz as always was a lovely horse and I look forward to the next installment which I hope will focus on Logan and Laslo if not wholly than at least a good amount.
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