The Rose of Shanhasson by Joely Sue Burkhart
I am feeling pretty conflicted about this story. There were some things that I loved about it...cool paranormal stuff going on, beautiful and well-written imagery of this fantasy world, and two sexy heroes. There were also some things I didn't love...too much detail about the political conflict, the blood sucking/biting thing was a little off-putting to me and reminiscent of a vampire story (but it's not a vampire story), and I found the heroine's repetitive complaint (I can't fall in love, I must return to my people) irritating and one-note.
Unfortunately, the best thing about this book also turned out to be the worst thing! Burkhart does an amazing job building the sexual tension between the heroine Shannari and the secondary hero, Gregar. The climatic scene at the end of the book when she finally admits her love for both Rhaekhar (the primary hero) and Gregar, is awesome. (I must admit that I really love both of these heroes...they are intense, sexy alpha males all the way). So I was definitely expecting a lusty conclusion to this story, especially after being teased about the threesome "sharing their blankets." Well, I got to the end of the book and my jaw dropped. After the huge build up for this menage, Burkhart leaves us hanging. In the immortal words of Spongebob, "Well, tartar sauce!" The emotional conflict was resolved, but I guess any sexual satisfaction will be taking place in the next book of the trilogy. Needless to say, I am feeling pretty irked about the whole thing. She should have put off the emotional resolution, too. Having one without the other is nothing but a Big Tease. So, I'm not really sure how to grade this...I loved some of it, and I was disappointed with some, especially the "go take a cold shower" ending. Grade: B-
Penelope
Posts
