Review by whatthefridge - Initiation

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whatthefridge 's review for:

Initiation by Alethea Faust

4.75

adventurous emotional hopeful medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

The worldbuilding is basically like “what if DnD concentration spells could only be achieved through BDSM sex.” For example, attack spells require impact play, with the energy stored in a focus that could be used during combat. And Dominai is like if you took a seasoned Ranger and he’s suddenly multi-classing with magic.

The beginning few chapters feel very PWP with BDSM 101. However, as my interest was waning at the repetition, there was a thankful shift in the story. A bit of reprieve. Once more plotty stuff starts happening, it feels less drifting.

Everyone is vers and switch and pansexual. The on-page sex tends to leans most heavily towards phalluses and butt stuff, but there is some vag content, which can be good or bad depending on what one’s expecting going into this. Oh and there’s no romance! It keeps the sex casual to the very end, even with Dominai becoming the closest with two of his friends. So if you’re into sexual queerplatonic relationships, this should be a gold mine.

The plot that you do get is bare minimum, but it’s enough to drive character motivations and help Dominai grow into himself. I consider that a job well done. Though, of course, there needs to be a warning that the plot comes with implications of off-page dark content. In a way it’s a palate cleanser so that the entire novel isn’t simply low stakes friskiness.

I’m very intrigued about where this could possibly go in the next book. Though I should temper my expectations in case it repeats the same beats. Alas the curse of becoming invested.

Content Warnings