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Raised." Here is what the Mysterious Guest Reviewer wrote:
April 2005 "The Curse of Higuchi" by L. Crystal Michallet-Romero Classic-ALT/Post-FIN, Complete
NC-17 (sex, violence, and general graphic content)
Every once in a while, I like a little angst in my fiction. This is an amazing tale, and not for the faint of heart. The story begins in
the aftermath of Higuchi, as our Bard endures the darkest period of her life. "The Curse of Higuchi" is painted in dark tones,
and while it doesn't drown in all-out angst, it does try the soul once or twice. Fair warning: when I say graphic content of all
kinds, I mean it, and this story depicts its battles vividly. This portrait of our favorite pair of soulmates gives us a very human
Gabrielle, complete with her shortcomings and a skoche of polygamy as she truly comes into her own, and a Warrior Princess
who is forced to look at unexpected consequences of her actions as she watches her Bard move through life independently,
though in pain. The story also introduces us to a new main character, and I'd really like to find out more about her adventures
after the end of this tale. (HINT, HINT, to the bard responsible!) While predominantly F/F, there's a touch of M/M as well,
though the men are vulnerable and loving in expressing their love for each other, and *that* content isn't graphic. The best
parts of this tale illustrate the drive and passion its women have in their love for one another, and in this regard,
Michallet-Romero succeeds in ways that will grab you and not let you go! Also, the author's portrayal of Middle Eastern and
Indian traditions and spirituality are very eye-opening. (I'd say "enlightening", but that's just too much, isn't it? I don't need the
pun police on my case already.)
+ + + Three Blades out of Five: it is quite long, so plan on investing some time reading it, and while the story never veers
from the soulmate theme, it varies from the standard romance of just Xena and Gabrielle. Recommended!
Thank you, mysterious reviewer, whoever you are!!!!
- Crystal -
The Royal Academy of Bards.
Newly Added on December 25, 2003
The printed version of COH can only be found at my site. If any links are not connecting, please let me
know.
Note to Readers:
I am taking great liberties with certain aspects of Buddism, Hinduism, and Islamic beliefs as well as
historical figures from the Middle East and Morocco. Additionally, the story surrounding Indus and the
Asoka reign should be taken with a grain of salt.
You Should Have (the story that started COH)
Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three
Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six
Chapter Seven Chapter Eight Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten Chapter Eleven Conclusion
Epilogue
Ancient Egyptian Terminology
Bibliography
If this story inspires you to create music, pictures or poetry, please feel free to send jpgs or links to me so that I can put them
up in this area!
Sue Rice (Poems) Kiss Her Fears Away and Icy Hot
AJ's Site Sams Music
The Curse of Higuchi
