Butterfly has some elements of S&M which I am curious about, but don't particularly find inspiring. We are introduced to the heroine who is a woman who has chosen to live as a slave (Gor philosophy based)for the past five years. It becomes obvious that she made this choice from the context of a very dysfunctional and self destructive life to begin with, which explains why she willingly stayed in a demeaning situation as essentially an object. Is it plausible? I think so, is it representative of all slave master relationships? I don't believe so. I believe the story does explore that fine line of what is really consensual versus coerced or victimized. The romance of the story was interesting, but not as well developed as I would like due to the first half of the book's focus on the context of Butterfly's slavery. I really enjoyed the author's descriptions of the Bryan's Navajo heritage, and would have loved more. 3.5 starsThis story is set up with two distinct parts that revolve around the heroine's life. Often, these divisions in storytelling seem abrupt, forced and awkward, but in this case it works well. Butterfly/Sylvia has some serious issues regarding anxiety and self worth and the situation in which we meet her is extreme. The unidealized view of a M/s relationship is probably not going to appeal to several readers. While many of acts are told from a distant past tense summary point of view, there is one particular act that is quite graphic and will exceed many readers tolerance levels. It is not done salaciously, it is intrinsic to story, but nonetheless I feel it deserves comment as an FYI.One aspect of the story I really enjoyed is the Native American protagonist. Nicely done. It's good to see diversity in literature and this in no way felt like pandering or stereotypical. Primary reason I did not rate this higher is the heavy handed treatment of explaining/revealing the psychological motivations of the H/h.
What do You think about Butterfly Unpinned (2009)?
Great, hot scenes, but a bit unrealistic. Then again, I don't always want realistic when I read!
—drewjalbert
It had the characteristics of a great novel but the ending just didn't do it to me.
—carmen
Interesting and strange story. Provocative!!
—aman
