A Solid Core of Alpha

Title: A Solid Core of Alpha

Author: Amy Lane

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/

ISBN: 978-1-61372-143-8

Genre: {M/M}, Science Fiction

Rating:  5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph 

When Anderson was 13 years old, tragedy struck the mining colony he lived on.  Only the fast actions of his older sister saved the young boy. He spent the next ten years in an escape shuttle, all alone with the exception of the hologram world he created.  When the shuttle finally docks, Anderson’s survival is at stake. 

Amy Lane is a prolific writer who covers a variety of themes.  A Solid Core of Alpha is a science fiction story in the truest sense of the words, as even without the romance that is woven through it; this book would surely be a hit with the sci-fi fans.  The characters are strongly written and it is easy to forget that several of the secondary characters are not real people.  Although the story covers a long period of time, the author keeps the pace going nicely so that the reader will not feel as if the book is dragging.  There is some time between the start of the story and when Anderson and C.J. meet.  While most romance fans may find exception with this, it is an important part of the story as it builds Anderson’s background, giving the reader a glimpse of the issues the young man will face once he reaches civilization.   

C.J. is the go-to guy for the Hermes-Eight space station.  When ships come in with problems, he can take care of them.  The twenty-nine year old is also vastly knowledgeable about sex and not used to doing without.  When he meets Anderson, C.J. is instantly drawn to the younger man.  The author’s ability to show these two falling in love is great.  C.J. knows how fragile Anderson is and the difficulty he has controlling his wants, as well as Anderson’s, comes through realistically.  The passion between them is intense and sets the pages on fire. 

A Solid Core of Alpha is, in no way, a lighthearted story, however.  It is dark, full of angst and readers will find themselves worrying about both heroes in this story.  Readers should also know that there are strong references to physical and sexual abuse, both of which are unfortunately needed to drive home the results of the long term isolationism that Anderson suffered from.  This is a great story by the author and one her fans should not miss.