Ichi is a gay, shy, serious bug scientist. Socially he feels more comfortable with his bugs. He hasn't left the research station in almost three years.When the transport is three hours away from picking him up, he gets news that airspace has been closed. A year's worth of planning for a speaking engagement and some time off for personal pleasure just flew out the window.Amanda decides to loan her husband, Will, to Ichi for the night. Drinking, cards and Will making him a doll on the PETS site. Then a video call from the "boyfriend" telling him he doesn't date above thirty. Ichi just turned thirty two. He wakes up he next morning to a message thanking him for his PETS order. Five months later Ichi had almost forgotten all about his purchase when it finally arrives. He walks into the cargo hold to find everyone there waiting to see his doll. Turns out he received a free upgrade to a real Living Companion. He wants to send it back but he can't. That's when the story really starts getting good. IMO it never felt like a sci-fi book. I recommend this book to anyone. It has a great story line and the sex scenes are well placed. A perfect combination. I really enjoyed this story :) it was an interesting concept and the plot was well developed. I loved the characters and I loved how the length of the story allowed for the romance to evolve slowly.However as much as I loved the story length, I did feel that some of the scenes could have been tightened up. I found myself slightly annoyed with how long it took for itchy to really believe that rye could love him.On a final note - I hope that SA Payne writes sequels. There is so much in this world that I would like to continue reading about. I especially would like to see if Vincent gets a happy ever after and the rest of the siblings.Re-Read August 2013 and changing rating to 4.5 starsI really enjoyed my reread - this story has killer bugs and some interesting twists.
What do You think about Heroes & Ghosts (2007)?
Beautiful book, lots of conflict. Comes out very believable despite the crazy world.
—jan
This needed an enthusiastic editor with a hacksaw honestly...
—Muzicgurl1994
real characters. awesome story. sex robot?
—pads61wilding
