A review by hopeevey
The 5th Gender by G.L. Carriger

funny hopeful
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

I originally rated this a 3, but changed it on reflection.  The plot primarily sets up the hot male/male(ish) sexytimes - which is a good and noble goal.  At the same time, the mystery plot is remarkably clever, especially for a steamy romance mystery novel.  All of the characters are well developed, humans and aliens.  The romance storyline and the mystery each add depth to the other, and kept me thinking about the book long after I'd finished reading it.  

And, much to my delight, this author avoided the most common-yet-aggravating trope of M/M romance - sex acts not physically possible for the characters' anatomy.  That itself is a big plus for me.
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