Hmm... Nope, sorry, not buying it! This book just felt lazy to me! Like the author didn’t want to bother building real tension between the characters or real chemistry. It was all forced, fake and way too fast. Upon reading the premise I was hoping that we’d get to see the moment when Valenti’s feelings changed, a real internal struggle, slow story building, and silent longing. I got none of that. In fact, Valenti didn’t even need to bother with the pathetic pining and self-hatred since O'Brian clearly and obviously wanted him anyway. For once I’d love to read a story where, when the premise introduces two straight men, one with feelings for the other, the object of desire hasn’t “secretly wanted them all along” as well. It’s incredibly unrealistic and an easy cop-out for the author rather than writing a realistic scenario in which the other comes to feel the same way. Or, could we not start the book out with one straight man being in love with his straight buddy? Stop being lazy and take the time to actually write about it! Convince me that it has happened. Don’t just tell me it has and then expect me to accept it. This entire series is just an excuse to write sex scenes. The characterization and the “plot” are nothing but flimsy filler. It’s too bad since the premise that was set down could have been very interesting and intense if done with care and done correctly. But alas, the author was not interested in any of that. Very disappointing. I will have to continue my search for the perfect “silent suffering” m/m book! Possibly, my review of this is quite harsh. I don't want to go lower than 2 stars because...I always feel like I'm causing damage by doing that so, I'll stick with the 2 stars.The book just failed to make me able to suspend my disbelief. Some scenes were hot but just - I couldn't get into this one, wasn't even rooting for anyone in particular. Perhaps a re-read at a later date might give me a different result.
What do You think about The Assignment (2006)?
Nothing really special. In fact I forgot I'd read it until I looked at the reviews.
—nyo
