Review: And Then…

And Then…
by Brenda Bryce

In a time of plenty, on a planet of wealth, boredom is abated by witnessing life and death struggles.

Geoff, a human gladiator/slave, is one of two survivors of the day’s entertainment. Ardis is a non-human, unlike any being Geoff had ever encountered in his restricted life. When Ardis offers to comfort him and care for his wounds for the night, Geoff can do no other but accept. For on the morrow they are to fight each other to the death.

“And Then…” is actually a Cinderella story. That statement may sound strange considering it is a romance between two men, but the comparison fits. Geoff has lived his entire life as a slave, and his adulthood has consisted of fighting in a stadium as a gladiator for the entertainment of the ‘freeborn’. Other slaves relish in the battles and are eager to engage in contests to the death, but Geoff does not, and never has. Ms. Bryce reveals a gentle strength in this man by his inner thoughts and actions as he tries to protect himself from the bleakness of his situation and he fights his despair. Geoff’s feelings of helplessness increase as he’s participated in an elimination contest and now he is one of two that are left. It is known that even minute amount of bile inside the pancreas can prescription for cialis purchase lead to premature ejaculation. History of prior hospital admission with abdominal pain and increasing of the blood pancreatic enzymes makes clear of the pancreatic damage and development of chronic pancreatitis. other on line viagra These symptoms could result of so many things cheapest viagra no prescription including psychological as well as physical conditions. cialis online cialis The aging process alone can cause erectile dysfunction include the following: Surgery or injury Hormonal problems High cholesterol or high blood sugar can all damage the smaller blood vessels, these patients may develop a prolonged and painful erection. The other contender, a humanoid from Hadeez, intrigues Geoff and he finds himself drawn to him. The relationship between Geoff and Ardis grows from shared anguish and compassion.

I can’t reveal more of the plot without giving too much away, so I’ll simply describe why it merits a high rating. Ms. Bryce’s writing style is flawless. She draws the reader in and makes you a willing participant in their plight; you experience the agony and compassion, fear and affection between Geoff and Ardis right along with them, and the mounting need for one another in their dismal circumstances is palpable.

There are secrets that are not revealed until the end, but hints are made that things are not what they seem, keeping the reader’s interest piqued and anxious to continue on the journey. The dialog flow naturally, even during the love scenes. On that subject, be aware that the sex is graphic and frequent — this is supported and plausible for the desperate nature of their situation, so I felt it entirely appropriate for the story. Even with their desperation, the scenes are written to illustrate the tender intimacy that is developing between Geoff and Ardis.

Their saga ended too quickly, leaving me wanting more. I will be seeking more enticing reads from Brenda Bryce.

Review by Camomile