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Villains
Dear Author,
I know that everyone believes that I’m the monster, and that He keeps me on a leash. I don’t mind; it’s funny how everyone is deceived by our act and while they look at me with fear and loathing, His secret is safe. No one is going to know that behind his innocent look and smile there is a soulless and sadistic man. I love Him the way He is and even if He isn’t capable of love, I know that I’m the most valuable person in his life. He trusts me, He cares about me and He wants to be with me. And it’s enough.
Sometimes, I wonder— am I monster too?
Photo Description:
Two manga-style young men on the verge of a kiss. One has white hair, while the other has his face partially hidden by a hood, although his eyes seem to have a reddish tint.
This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love’s Landscapes" event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.
This story may contain sexually explicit content and is intended for adult readers. It may contain content that is disagreeable or distressing to some readers. The M/M Romance Group strongly recommends that each reader review the General Information section before each story for story tags as well as for content warnings.
I know that everyone believes that I’m the monster, and that He keeps me on a leash. I don’t mind; it’s funny how everyone is deceived by our act and while they look at me with fear and loathing, His secret is safe. No one is going to know that behind his innocent look and smile there is a soulless and sadistic man. I love Him the way He is and even if He isn’t capable of love, I know that I’m the most valuable person in his life. He trusts me, He cares about me and He wants to be with me. And it’s enough.
Sometimes, I wonder— am I monster too?
Photo Description:
Two manga-style young men on the verge of a kiss. One has white hair, while the other has his face partially hidden by a hood, although his eyes seem to have a reddish tint.
This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love’s Landscapes" event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.
This story may contain sexually explicit content and is intended for adult readers. It may contain content that is disagreeable or distressing to some readers. The M/M Romance Group strongly recommends that each reader review the General Information section before each story for story tags as well as for content warnings.
21 pages, ebook
First published June 1, 2014
123 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Speed
77 books510 followersSuper nerd. Former EIC at Cx Pulp. I've won Rainbow Awards, and still can't believe it. A small medicinal horse. The Meryl Streep of stunt corpses. Enby.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
April 14, 2015
Gay Anti-Heroes
But not much else.
This story is cute but very info dumpy with no romance, steam, or relationship development.
The plot is much too convoluted for such a short story, and we never get to see what makes the MCs tick.
But not much else.
This story is cute but very info dumpy with no romance, steam, or relationship development.
The plot is much too convoluted for such a short story, and we never get to see what makes the MCs tick.
August 10, 2016
Not what I expected from the prompt but it was an enjoyable read. I pictured a MM adult version of "Megamind". That would have been scorching.
It's villain-lite. I agree with other reviewers, it reads like a comic book. Not a lot of action, this read more like the start of a series.
Thanks for story. :)
It's villain-lite. I agree with other reviewers, it reads like a comic book. Not a lot of action, this read more like the start of a series.
Thanks for story. :)
June 1, 2014
Fun comic book quality to this anti-hero offering. Loved the characters and the setting. For a short story it packed a decent punch and I'd definitely get behind reading a more flushed out novel.
August 9, 2014
I've never picked up a comic book, superhero movies are all well and good but they don't excite me too much and I've never read a graphic novel.
(Well, unless you count that Neil Gaiman series, which I don't, cause I'd read anything by Gaiman. I love him, he's mine and you can't have him. So there. Suck it.)
Anyway, my point is that I enjoyed the shit out of this story.
Andrea Speed's version of Batman (here known as Dark Justice) is funny as shit.
The romance isn't exactly overflowing but what there is of it, the idea of it, had me happy as shit.
There's info dumping and it feels like a placeholder for a "real" book but I don't give a shit.
If Speed turns this into a novel I am going to read the shit out of it.
Shit.
3.5 stars
March 26, 2015
This story had interesting characters and a strong sense of place. To me, it read like a graphic novel without the illustrations (and all the images in my head were in high contrast black and white like something out of Sin City). There were also some great one liners that made me wish I was far wittier than I am. So kudos to the author for those elements.
The only thing that left me wanting was the romance. It was there! I could feel the depth of feeling of Kaede for Ash, but I wanted a little more on-the-page affection (I'm sappy like that).
Speed hinted at continuing writing for these characters, and I hope that she follows through. I'd be interested to see what sort of trouble these two anti-heroes get up to next.
The only thing that left me wanting was the romance. It was there! I could feel the depth of feeling of Kaede for Ash, but I wanted a little more on-the-page affection (I'm sappy like that).
Speed hinted at continuing writing for these characters, and I hope that she follows through. I'd be interested to see what sort of trouble these two anti-heroes get up to next.
June 1, 2014
This was very cheeky and fun, a great little short with lots of funny little lines.
August 3, 2016
Inventive, well-written, but on the whole not what I'd consider a romance. Not even by my rather lax POV.
July 27, 2016
I randomly picked another book sponsored by the Goodreads M/ M Romance Group through their Love Landscape’s event.
Villains
by Andrea Speed is what I chose because it was short and had a pretty interesting photo description.
Kaede Hayashi and Ashburn Croft have been inseparable since they were nineteen. They are villains created by Doctor Terror, Kaede’s father. Ash was genetically engineered, and then later on was hired as Kaede’s minder. It was mentioned that Kaede might be a clone of Terror’s real son.
This story has so much potential and could have worked really well if it was a full-length novel, or better if it were a series. There was this amazing world that could have been explored further because of all the science fiction in it. The story was curious but it was like going through a Wikipedia page. Almost everything was in a summary! I also don’t get the purpose of the story both on the super-villains matter and on the romance side. There were so many things left hanging and unanswered. What did they want with the sonic blaster? Was Kaede really a clone or not?
Honestly, I was really excited to read this not only because the theme seemed action-packed, but also because I thought the romance would be adorable. There was so much promise in the letter request of this short story, but I never felt all the romance as I was going through the actual thing. Everything was rushed when I wanted to see more of the protagonists’ relationship. It was like a flat-line.
The writing is actually nice and I would like to read a longer and better work of the author’s. It was the flow of the events that didn’t work out.
If the author ever plans on rewriting this and turning it into a fuller story, I would gladly read it! It was a very broad subject and she could actually stretch the story into something greater.
Kaede Hayashi and Ashburn Croft have been inseparable since they were nineteen. They are villains created by Doctor Terror, Kaede’s father. Ash was genetically engineered, and then later on was hired as Kaede’s minder. It was mentioned that Kaede might be a clone of Terror’s real son.
This story has so much potential and could have worked really well if it was a full-length novel, or better if it were a series. There was this amazing world that could have been explored further because of all the science fiction in it. The story was curious but it was like going through a Wikipedia page. Almost everything was in a summary! I also don’t get the purpose of the story both on the super-villains matter and on the romance side. There were so many things left hanging and unanswered. What did they want with the sonic blaster? Was Kaede really a clone or not?
Honestly, I was really excited to read this not only because the theme seemed action-packed, but also because I thought the romance would be adorable. There was so much promise in the letter request of this short story, but I never felt all the romance as I was going through the actual thing. Everything was rushed when I wanted to see more of the protagonists’ relationship. It was like a flat-line.
The writing is actually nice and I would like to read a longer and better work of the author’s. It was the flow of the events that didn’t work out.
If the author ever plans on rewriting this and turning it into a fuller story, I would gladly read it! It was a very broad subject and she could actually stretch the story into something greater.
June 2, 2022
Kindle-Sort-ReRead
Exactly what I originally said. Deleting because I need the feels.
... ...
Lots of interesting ideas and lines in this, but overall it's very info-dumpy. As Catherine mentions there's the feel of a graphic novel without the illustrations. This would make a good comic.
I rather liked the characters but this is more action-adventure than romance. I'm curious about the sometimes snuggly Ash and would like to read more of him. Though the relationship is referred to the feels aren't entirely there for this to be considered a romance (and for me to rate higher). I wanted to see more of them together, to know not be told of their connection.
There's almost too much world-building/inventions/experiments for the length of the story which means its more tell than show or talk. Interesting ideas though; there's the suggestion that Speed might write more of these and it might be better as a longer story with more room for interaction between the couple.
A quirky little tale set in a big complicated world.
Exactly what I originally said. Deleting because I need the feels.
... ...
Lots of interesting ideas and lines in this, but overall it's very info-dumpy. As Catherine mentions there's the feel of a graphic novel without the illustrations. This would make a good comic.
I rather liked the characters but this is more action-adventure than romance. I'm curious about the sometimes snuggly Ash and would like to read more of him. Though the relationship is referred to the feels aren't entirely there for this to be considered a romance (and for me to rate higher). I wanted to see more of them together, to know not be told of their connection.
There's almost too much world-building/inventions/experiments for the length of the story which means its more tell than show or talk. Interesting ideas though; there's the suggestion that Speed might write more of these and it might be better as a longer story with more room for interaction between the couple.
A quirky little tale set in a big complicated world.
March 25, 2016
Villains is written for the M/M Romance Group’s 2014 Love’s Landscapes event. It’s told in third person through the eyes of Kaede Hayashi, son and heir of Doctor Goro Hayashi, aka Doctor Terror. Kaede’s companion is Ash.
This story has a lot going on in it. It’s mostly a crime story with not much romance. The author showed how the villains could be twisted good guys going about their business in an unorthodox way. The world is complex and the characters interesting; I just wish the author had gone about presenting it in a different way which I’ll explain below.
I prefer having more dialogue in the stories I read and this was very heavy on descriptions of the characters and the history of how they came to be. Honestly, when a story is so heavy on the telling, instead of the action, my mind starts to wander and I found that happening with this story. I had to force myself to read every word.
I really liked the world that was created and the characters, but with the heavy on the telling, I found myself getting bored, unfortunately. I give this story 3 Stars
This story has a lot going on in it. It’s mostly a crime story with not much romance. The author showed how the villains could be twisted good guys going about their business in an unorthodox way. The world is complex and the characters interesting; I just wish the author had gone about presenting it in a different way which I’ll explain below.
I prefer having more dialogue in the stories I read and this was very heavy on descriptions of the characters and the history of how they came to be. Honestly, when a story is so heavy on the telling, instead of the action, my mind starts to wander and I found that happening with this story. I had to force myself to read every word.
I really liked the world that was created and the characters, but with the heavy on the telling, I found myself getting bored, unfortunately. I give this story 3 Stars
June 5, 2014
I must say this story has so much potential - wonderful characters, villains, a fantastic world and I so wanna know more about Doctor Terror!
Oh, Ash! I want to see more of him - I really liked Kaede as well. I would love to see how they become friends and more.. !
Sadly it's just to short and a little tiny on the romance side *sniff*
Please give us more Ash & Kaede!
Anyways, this was fun already!
Thanks!
Oh, Ash! I want to see more of him - I really liked Kaede as well. I would love to see how they become friends and more.. !
Sadly it's just to short and a little tiny on the romance side *sniff*
Please give us more Ash & Kaede!
Anyways, this was fun already!
Thanks!
August 6, 2016
I actually thoroughly enjoyed this, which I hadn't expected to after reading some of the other reviews.
I'm beyond fascinated with this world. Maybe I didn't find it so info-dumpy because I was having so much fun learning about this world.
It absolutely did read like the intro for another/longer work, and I hope it comes soon!
Favorite Quote:
"madness is a slight drawback."
I'm beyond fascinated with this world. Maybe I didn't find it so info-dumpy because I was having so much fun learning about this world.
It absolutely did read like the intro for another/longer work, and I hope it comes soon!
Favorite Quote:
"madness is a slight drawback."
June 1, 2014
A fun super hero - or villain? - read. Possibly the start of a series according to the author, I can see a lot of places for these characters to go.
June 2, 2014
Another story from the Loves Landscape event go to the M/M Romance Group to join and be able to read before the ebook version comes out.
This was a well written stories focused on anti heroes Kaede and Ash. Kaede is the son of a Mad Scientist Supervillain and Ash is his Bodyguard who was genetic modified by Kaede's father. Kaede and Ash have systematically destroyed the top crime bosses, and when Ash states that Kaede is now the crime boss of the city, Kaede replies with my favorite quote in the book. “No I’m not. I don’t want the job. Let there be a power vacuum, because the resulting chaos will keep Dark Justice too busy to bug us. Besides, it’s too much work, and I’d rather spend the time with you.” by the way the hero Dark Justice is very much a tribute/knockoff to Batman.
the only thing keeping this from being a five star review is I want much more of Kaede and Ash.
This was a well written stories focused on anti heroes Kaede and Ash. Kaede is the son of a Mad Scientist Supervillain and Ash is his Bodyguard who was genetic modified by Kaede's father. Kaede and Ash have systematically destroyed the top crime bosses, and when Ash states that Kaede is now the crime boss of the city, Kaede replies with my favorite quote in the book. “No I’m not. I don’t want the job. Let there be a power vacuum, because the resulting chaos will keep Dark Justice too busy to bug us. Besides, it’s too much work, and I’d rather spend the time with you.” by the way the hero Dark Justice is very much a tribute/knockoff to Batman.
the only thing keeping this from being a five star review is I want much more of Kaede and Ash.
June 1, 2014
3.5 stars
This felt like an introduction to two anti-heroes (or super villains). Kaede, the son of a mad scientist who had been known as Dr Terror, and Ash, a genetically modified human and Kaede's "minder", as they carry out a plan to recover a sonic blaster weapon that has been stolen by a criminal gang. It also introduces what could be their nemesis in the form of Dark Justice (or Anthony)... the superhero out to save the day...
Fun little story, but the best line I am thinking of adopting for myself "madness is a slight drawback"
This felt like an introduction to two anti-heroes (or super villains). Kaede, the son of a mad scientist who had been known as Dr Terror, and Ash, a genetically modified human and Kaede's "minder", as they carry out a plan to recover a sonic blaster weapon that has been stolen by a criminal gang. It also introduces what could be their nemesis in the form of Dark Justice (or Anthony)... the superhero out to save the day...
Fun little story, but the best line I am thinking of adopting for myself "madness is a slight drawback"
June 12, 2014
I love, love the set up and will absolutely read the full-length novel if/when it appears. The bits with "Dark Justice" were especially inspired. In general, when the story consisted of action or dialogue it was terrific--full of energy and wit--but there were several clunky info-dumps that ground things to a halt. I can't help but hope they will be revamped in revisions.
Despite my complaints, I highly recommend this as a clever, original take on the superhero tale.
Despite my complaints, I highly recommend this as a clever, original take on the superhero tale.
December 15, 2015
3.5
I might be biased b/c this was my prompt.
A glimpse into Kaede and Ash's world.
I might be biased b/c this was my prompt.
A glimpse into Kaede and Ash's world.
September 13, 2014
Author tried too hard to subvert the prompt, so all we ended up with was a whole bunch of meh. The writing in and of itself is rather rough, too. The mentions of possible psychopathy seemed rather random and frankly, disingenuous. Sure, the LI may have developed some APD tendencies throughout his years and the various shitty events he's been through, but to go so far as to doubt whether he can love because of an inherent trait? Not buying it.
I mean, author did create a concept and universe, but too much of it was info-dumped on us instead of being slowly revealed like a blossoming flower. As I said, it felt like the author as trying to subvert the prompt, for whatever reason, but it rendered an edgy dark-fic concept into a pseudo-dystopian blah. Not much happens, actually, which I wouldn't have minded if it were a strong character piece, but it wasn't *unhappy*
Also, fairly certain Dark Justice is a Dark Knight parody. Not that I mind too much; that was sort of amusing to see.
Eh. Meh.
Tbh I had more fun reading the prompt letter than I did reading the fill :/
I mean, author did create a concept and universe, but too much of it was info-dumped on us instead of being slowly revealed like a blossoming flower. As I said, it felt like the author as trying to subvert the prompt, for whatever reason, but it rendered an edgy dark-fic concept into a pseudo-dystopian blah. Not much happens, actually, which I wouldn't have minded if it were a strong character piece, but it wasn't *unhappy*
Also, fairly certain Dark Justice is a Dark Knight parody. Not that I mind too much; that was sort of amusing to see.
Eh. Meh.
Tbh I had more fun reading the prompt letter than I did reading the fill :/
June 2, 2014
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. I really enjoy sci-fi, and this had a lot of the hallmarks of the advanced science concepts I enjoy. Another reviewer said this read like a graphic novel without the pictures, and I really see that. The scenes were all concrete, the action very separate. I could 'see' them, much like they were on a page as an image. The very static nature of the scenes didn't interfere with the story flow, however, so that wasn't a factor. I would've liked to see more of the relationship between Kaede and Ash, though.
June 25, 2014
This was well written, it shows the author's craftmanship. And it would have been much better, if she had spend a bit less time on the worldbuilding and a bit more on the people. I think that is the main problem of the story, there was so much to explain, so much background story to give that the actual story/relationship got lost in it. Now I wouldn't mind to read more of those characters, now that I know the world around them. The intro is done, can we get some more?
June 1, 2014
Andrea Speed writes beautifully descriptive worlds that pull you in. I bet if I was to close my eyes and picture Kamani Towers and there was a picture it would be a perfect match.
It would of been a fun ride to watch Ash and Kaede take over, all while taunting Dark Justice.
I just wanted more of Ash and Kaede.
It would of been a fun ride to watch Ash and Kaede take over, all while taunting Dark Justice.
I just wanted more of Ash and Kaede.
June 7, 2014
Great snarky fun. Would have loved a little more actual danger as these "villains" so far outgunned the field that there was little suspense. Would love to see this continued as a series. Ash and Kaede were fascinating and it would be great to see them come up against some more formidable obstacles.
June 1, 2014
Interesting take on villains vs. superheroes.
June 2, 2014
Really liked this. Refreshing to have an anti-hero as the lead in a story. Found the world intreguing and would love to read more adventures with these two. Interesting dynamic between them.
June 2, 2014
Oooh... delightfully mysterious, slightly dark, and very well done IMO. A solid 3.7 stars (not 4 only because I want more!).
June 3, 2014
This was sooo much fun to read!! Thanks for sharing your gift with us. Great story. Great humor.
Love it.
Love it.
June 4, 2014
Too much fun! Love the characters, the world, and every little twist and turn.
September 30, 2014
Competently written but missing connection and emotion between the MCs.
June 6, 2014
This was very enjoyable-the plot and characters were engaging and I wished there was more. Thank you!
September 10, 2016
Okay, this story is weird, personally, boring and to short. I was glad when it ended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews