"She Chose Him to be First"

In a world of mystic magic, Noa, a virgin, has chosen the man who will be her ahavatara, her first lover -- the man who will unlock her ability to touch the high magics that young women are unable to use before they first experience intercourse. The man she has chosen is Riordan de Cimmerian, a man of strength and power -- a man she has dreamed of loving for many years.

Riordan has no intention of being with Noa. Though much older than most girls are when they seek their first lovers, he cannot believe that she would want to be with him -- a man twice her age, and her teacher besides -- rather than with any of the many young men whom, he is sure, would be happy to be her ahavatara.

Noa is determined to win Riordan as her lover, and more, if she can manage it. But even if she does convince him to take her -- what permanence can come of a once-in-a- lifetime ritual?

DREAM UPON WAKING is a tight, sexy short story that fans of fantasy fiction are sure to enjoy. Though the length is limited, Ms. Hart's characterization is excellent. The world that Noa and Riordan inhabit is well-built, well- detailed, and easy to believe in. Romance readers may find themselves intrigued, but perhaps not completely satisfied by the very immediate, very sexual nature of the story. Though steps toward the happily-ever-after are taken, the lack of a more emotional exploration of the budding relationship leaves hope, but is, regrettably, too open to assure happiness for the heroine. Some readers may find the relationship between a teacher and his former student -- and Noa makes no bones about the long duration of her attraction to Riordan -- not to their taste, but for those who like a good fantasy (in more ways than one!) DREAM UPON WAKING is a hot little story that's sure to please.

Sensuality Level: This story has been rated Hard-R by the publisher. It contains multiple scenes of graphic sexual behavior.

Reviewed by Ann Leveille
Courtesy Sensual Romance Reviews
Posted October 16, 2003

Summary

Noa has carefully chosen her first lover, her ahavatara, from among the many at Somnus Keep who vie for the honor. Riordan de Cimmerian is the most powerful magicreator at the Keep and in the land, and joining with him will do more than release her innate magic powers. It will also tithe her soul to his. Riordan is not a kind man, nor a gentle one, but he is the man Noa has dreamed about for years. Now, she intends to turn those dreams into reality. Tonight, Noa will do more than reach her full magical strength. She will make Riordan hers...

Short Fantasy Erotica. Rating: Hard-R.(Some Graphic Sexual Content/Language)