When Sparks Fly : All About Romance

When Sparks Fly

Grade : B

I enjoy futuristic stories and wish there were more of them. They seem so rare that it’s a treat to find one that has decent world-building and a good storyline. Luckily, When Sparks Fly has both.

As an established innkeeper on the mining planet of Polaris, Gem Harrisdaughter works hard with her sisters to prosper and keep her inn reputable in the conservative community where a hint of sexual scandal can destroy a reputation and a business. Never-ending work and social strictures leave Gem with little time or much desire for romance. That begins to change when her sister decides to join the Galactic Explorers and leaves her shorthanded. Without thought, Gem asks one of the Sparks’ intriguing but mysterious regulars, Hyna Blue, if he wants a job.

Seemingly uninterested, Blue takes the job and Gem finds herself tempted at every turn by the handsome man with the cybernetic implants. However, when her life is threatened, Blue then takes it upon himself to change his job description from handyman to bodyguard, which brings them into even closer contact. She realizes there’s far more to Blue than she imagined.

As the threats against Gem become more pronounced, Blue becomes more militant in his protection. When other members of her family come into harm’s way, a drug ring is discovered that can ruin all Gem’s worked for. Gem learns that she doesn’t know who to trust and that includes Blue.

What I enjoyed about the setting of the author’s story is that it allowed for characters with obviously futuristic qualities, as well as an intermingling of creatures with various planetary origins. I also appreciated that while it is a futuristic story, the plot dealt with a problem that could exist at various times and places, thus making the story more realistic. Basically, it has a futuristic feeling without the constant injection of space ships. Plus, the chemistry between the two main characters is tense and the hero – well, he’s just hot. There are some standard storylines present (a sister who sacrifices herself somewhat for the good of the family), though they’re not blown out of proportion.

What annoyed me about the story were the social strictures that seem antiquated in a futuristic novel. The society on Polaris condemns sexual promiscuity and ostracizes those who engage – and by that I mean mostly the women – while at the same time, drug manufacturing is frowned upon, but doesn’t seem nearly as socially unacceptable. Furthermore, I resented every instance the hero used the term “woman” to directly refer to the heroine. It seemed almost caveman-like.

Though I had minor quibbles, When Sparks Fly was readable with good pacing, action, interesting plot, and good sexual tension between the hero and heroine. If your in need of the occasional futuristic (because there do not seem to be too many), I can recommend this one.

Reviewed by Heather Brooks

Grade : B

Book type : Futuristic Romance

Sensuality : Warm

Review Date : July 31, 2009

Published On : 2009