BONUS POST: Click on Title to read Review: Triad Blood by 'Nathan Burgoine
Triad Blood is based on characters and world-building created by Burgoine for four short works previously published in gay erotica anthologies. Please note that it is not necessary to read these short stories in order to make sense of the book. Additionally, although the short stories are erotic, Triad Blood's focus is on urban fantasy with minimal erotic content. However, the short stories are useful to readers interested in further character interaction and world-building information.
In order of publication: (click on titles for BSB website)
(1) "Three" - Released as a single short story. Originally in Blood Sacraments: Gay Vampire Erotica ed. Todd GregoryTriad Blood is based on characters and world-building created by Burgoine for four short works previously published in gay erotica anthologies. Please note that it is not necessary to read these short stories in order to make sense of the book. Additionally, although the short stories are erotic, Triad Blood's focus is on urban fantasy with minimal erotic content. However, the short stories are useful to readers interested in further character interaction and world-building information.
In order of publication: (click on titles for BSB website)
The events that take place in "Three" are narrated from Luc's perspective. This is where Burgoine first introduces his characters when they initially meet at a bar on the night of the full moon while the coteries, the packs, and the covens are busy renewing their bonds.
"We few who walk alone are safe these three nights. Safe enough to hunt on our own. I'd been caught by another vampire once before, and did not relish the thought of repeating it. Made and abandoned. I am a slave to the will of nearly all other vampires -- if they told me to step into the sun, if only for their own amusement, their will would force me to act. These three nights were all I had to call my own, and I was loath to give up even one of them." -- LucThe triad is formed between Luc, Anders, and Curtis during a steamy sexual encounter, in a ceremony involving the exchange of blood, soul through sex, and magic. This is a fabulous short story showcasing one erotic moment between three lonely men. It not only fits the Blood Sacraments anthology to perfection, but it serves as an excellent introduction to this world and characters.
(2) "Intercession" - Wings: Subversive Gay Angel Erotica ed. Todd Gregory
"Intercession" is narrated by the incubus demon, Anders, who gives an insight into a change that comes over him after meeting an angel, as the triad battle demons attempting to destroy them.
(3) "Possession" - Erotica Exotica: Tales of Sex & Magic ed. Richard Labonté
In "Possession," the narrative comes from Curtis' perspective and highlights his confrontation with the Families who rule the wizard covens.
(4) "Necessary Evil" - Raising Hell: Demonic Gay Erotica ed. Todd Gregory
And, in "Necessary Evil," we again experience the story from Anders' point of view, as Burgoine introduces a couple of characters whose 'special circumstances' are addressed in Triad Blood.
Conclusion: There is a certain continuity to these short stories if read in order. As I mention above, it is not necessary to read them before reading Triad Blood, however, they do give the reader insight into the characters, as well as into certain events. The other side effect of reading these short stories is that you want to know more about the characters… about the world… so I'm glad the book was written. Note that my focus above was on "Three," and that is because it was the introductory story. However, all the short stories are excellent, particularly (and this is a personal bias) the ones with Anders as the narrator. Enjoy!
