Past and present converge in this story of two mages, Razeal and Sevrin, who live out forbidden love and find that no matter where they escape to, or how many centuries they have remained hidden on Earth, they cannot escape forever the creature that wants Sevrin dead.
In this first installment: Razeal and Sevrin must remember what happened to them over five hundred years ago on another world in order to understand a threat that has found them on present day Earth.
Male/Male Paranormal Romance
E-Book, 249 pages
Dark Roast Press
Razeal and Sevrin are not only lovers and partners, but they are mages, both quite powerful, especially when their powers combine. Sevrin has been gone for the past two years, on his own sabbatical, looking for answers about his immortality. For those that are immortal, two years is just a drop in the bucket. But still, Razeal has missed him tremendously and is eagerly awaiting his return. He feels an evil vibe in the air, something is very dangerous is coming – Sevrin has felt it too, which makes his decision to return home an easy one.
Upon reuniting, this evil thing on the metaphysical level attacks Sevrin while they are in the throes of lovemaking. Because they are a certain type of mage, their souls connect on the spirtual level when making love, so when Sevrin is attacked, Razeal uses his power to help him fight the beast. Although they push the evil away this time, they are both drained and it takes them a while to recover. The next time they become intimate, Razeal realizes he is unable to connect to Sevrin, something that is almost unbelivable to him. This evil creature is not new to them – they have encountered him before. With Razeal in serious trouble, Sevrin is desperate to find answers. But to find the answers they must study the past of when they first met each other, and the evil being.
Gemini Souls is a story that is actually told more in the past. Although in present day the plot revolves more around killing this evil creature, in the past it is more of a love story . In the past we learn how Sevrin and Razeal first meet. Sevrin was very young in matters of the world and very untrusting of this mage he meets by chance. Razeal is more confident and has definite interest in Sevrin, not only attracted to him but he wants to unravel Sevrin’s secrets. Why has he been banished from his family? How much magic does he actually have? When Razeal learns the extent of Sevrin’s untrained power, he realizes there could be severe consequences if they come together.
I loved the contrast between the two characters in present day and in the past. In present day, Razeal is the one sitting at home by himself, waiting for Sevrin’s return. He seems a little more unsure of himself – at the mercy of Sevrin’s return.
In the past, Razeal is the cocky mage who shamelessly tries to flirt with the very reserved Sevrin. It takes a lot of patience on Razel’s part to bring Sevrin out of his shell. Razeal comes to realize that although he wants Sevrin on a physical level, there is much more at stake to bringing Sevrin around than just for romance. Sevrin has power locked away, brought out in the moments when Razeal and him become intimate. Razeal not only has to reassure Sevrin that all will be alright, but figure out how to reign in his power so it can be useful to them both.
My biggest complaint is in the past flashbacks, the story dragged for awhile. I appreciate the fact that Sevrin and Razeal take their time to learn about each other, but the pace was quite slow in some places. I also would have liked to see more of present day and their struggle with this demon that is attacking them. Sevrin’s distrust and concern was very understandable and I much prefer that to instant attratction between two characters. Even Razeal, who was attracted to Sevrin fromt the start, has to think twice when he realizes he is not just in this relationship for the sex, but for a lifetime (or many lifetime) committment.
Thomas Hampton of Myristica’s Crimson Dawn, also makes an appearance and I love his character. So cocky, and sarcastic and knows how to get under every one’s skin. Very secretive as well – you never know if he has the key to the mystery or if he is totally bluffing everyone. I want more of him!!
Gemini Souls is a very unique paranormal romance that I hope we see a sequel to.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars
Interesting cover on that book! I haven't jumped into m/m yet, but it intrigues me! :)
It sure sounds interesting, romance, mages, oh yes :)
Nice review mandi
Fabulous review, Mandi! The book sounds really interesting.
Interesting premise, and I am loving that front cover!
Nice, honest review – as always.
Good review!! I've yet to read an m/m paranormal. Thomas Hampton sounds like a character I could love. Cocky and sarcastic :)
Never fear, Myristica says the second half will be coming soon!
And for more of Thomas Hampton, check out her Crimson Dawn series.
Sounds rather interesting! Lovely review! :)
Oh, m/m and fantasy? I'm defintely interested! I've never heard of this author *scribbles notes furiously*
I know what I'll be Googling tonight *grin* Thank you Mandi!
For those who have read the author's work previously, is this book a good place to start please?
Yes, this is a good place to start. She also has a book called Crimson Dawn which is more m/m rom suspense/PN which I wasn't a huge fan of.
Thank you so much! (((Mandi))) It just sounds…well….perfect for me *grin* Will so be hunting it down.
Out of interest, have you tried Sarah Monette's The Doctrine of Labyrinths series?
I loved your blog. Thank you.