There is a really excellent review of Gaijin up at Dear Author, by Janine Ballard.
It isn’t a wholly positive review, as no thorough review should be. But it discusses the themes in the book in a way most reviews of erotica or erotic romance books never bother to do. And, for a writer, that’s a real moment of pride: when someone takes the work you’ve written and gives it some deep thought.
Also worth your attention are the comments. There are some very interesting discussions there, on whether the book resembles the equivalent of a blaxploitation movie, and what is the fundamental purpose in books like Gaijin.
I can fully understand why a lot women don’t want to read erotic fiction that contains non-con. I respect their choice, as I would any reader’s choice to read any subject they choose. Hey, there are things I won’t read. Subject matter I find personally offensive. Although, if I have to be honest, there isn’t much I won’t read if the writing is good.
Still, what I did find a little disturbing was the comment question of why the book should exist at all. As if, if a book isn’t to one’s taste, it simply shouldn’t exist. That mindset scares me. I find it intolerant and fascistic.
All that being said, the review is a very thoughtful one. And worth reading for an example of how serious reviews are structured and how, when well written, they expand the discussion beyond any given book, and onto some serious and intriguing issues.
Your gratitude for a serious review that addresses the book’s themes reminds me of my own stunned pleasure at a review of one my stories that discussed my use of literary techniques. We ARE writers, after all, not just arousal machines, and it feels good to be recognized and respected as such.
Not that there’s anything wrong with being able to turn on your readers…
(As for “Gaijin”, I read it on this blog and was stunned by it. A very powerful piece of work. And yes, I was aroused. But there was an accompanying discomfort. A challenging work.)
o.g.
Sooooo… give us linkie. Let’s read it. Truth be told, I love a review with depth.
Here’s the link to the review: http://sharazade.fannypress.com/?p=309 She claims I used a technique that is characteristic of Arabic writing. Who knew?
o.g.
Now WE know. See what I mean about well-considered reviews? They do more than simply describe the text or the readers feelings about the text, they explore themes, techniques, etc.
Where can I buy this novella?
Sadly, it is not available at the moment, as my publisher closed its doors. When I have found a new publisher for it, I will announce it. Thanks for your inquiry.