Not bad for a quick read
I had started this book right after I read one of Michael's other book called "A Private Hunger." In contrast to his other work, "Where Flows the Water" seems to have a better sense of character and a bit more impact as far as plot.
In this story, we are introduced to the character Quan, who has the ability to call water to him (making an instant well or spring) and thus earning the title of "ba'ichi." Quan has been on a quest to find his "hi'icha" which is essentially his soul mate destined to him by the Winds. Unfortunately for the young ba'ich, when he finally does find his destined, a man named Jael, his beloved's response is pure denial. All Jael wants is a loving wife with kids, but Quan is having none of that!
As I often try to point out, it really depends on what you are looking for. The book itself reads okay, but there are times if I saw another "oh..." I'd toss the book over my shoulder. The characters of Quan and Jael do seem to have defining personality. Quan comes across as a well mannered neat freak (borderline germaphobic) and Jael is very much the kind protector who doesn't know his own worth. The interaction between them was fairly entertaining during the first part of the book and provided a good basis for the plot. However there isn't any remarkable character development.
Once the two finally manage to connect to one another, the plot of the story becomes somewhat more basic and less enthralling. It soon becomes very easy to start skimming the numerous sex scenes which seem to become the whole focus of the later half of the book, and start trying to find something interesting to hold your attention. It would have been wonderful if there was a bit more back story on Quan's own culture, or at least a better understanding of the world in which the story takes place. Alas you are left to just wonder and make your own assumptions.
All in all, the book was an OK read, but nothing as far as NEED to own. There is plenty of lovey-dovey if that's all you are interested in, but for me I prefer a good combination of story and romance. This is probably a good lounging book if you want something light and simple, but honestly there isn't that much to really dive into. Not a bad effort Michaels, keep trying.
Not much of anything good
This book was a good read, but regrettably short. Near the end of the book, I found myself skipping over the sex and hunting for plot. There's just enough characterization to notice one character versus another; if someone could tell me the setting, I'd be very happy!
Don't get me wrong! This is a good book with lively characters. But I would enjoy seeing more depth to the plot, setting and characters themselves.
A Beautiful Poignant Love Story
A story of the unconditional love of man searching for his mate; only to find his mate is straight and is wooing a woman! The strength and patience of Quan shows Jael a love that Jael never knew existed. The love Jael returned to Quan exceeded Quan's expectations! Together, they surmounted all obstacles and had a love that knew no bounds and was more than they ever dreamed of!
Beautifully written narrative. Well developed story and characters. Whether the story is current, futuristic, mythical,mystical,western etc.Sean Michael once again shows his talent in writing and puts the reader THERE! Such a tender yet erotic story that is a joy to read! No disappointments here!
Love this wonderful fantasy gay romance from Sean! Wondrous world and a unique character.
This e-book was written in 2004. I am most glad to finally have it in print as this one is definitely for keeps. Sean has given us a wondrous fantasy world here, where those gifted with magic (ba'chi) are protected by their sworn mates (hi'icha, warrior with no such gift). Quan is a wandering ba'chi, who calls to water, searching for his hi'icha. He finally found him in a much younger Jael. But it was not easy for a fastidious and cultured Quan to settle down in Jael's community which is more backward and "barbaric" in Quan's eyes. It did not help when most in the community dislike the "strange" Quan and Jael, who has his eyes on a village girl, is a most reluctant ba'chi. Much more than a gay erotica, Sean has given us an uplifting and heartwarming tale as these 2 men overcome their obstacles, learn to love each other deeply and finally build a life together. If I have to choose a favorite from Sean's works, "Where Flows the water", with a memorable character in Quan, is certainly the story.
Does this make me look fat?
I did enjoy this story. There are elements taken from Native American tradition, before the settling of America by Europeans. Quan's background, and the culture he came from, could have been explored more deeply and might have explained more about his fussy nature and cleaning fetish.
There are moments of mirth and joy, which move the story along well. The depth and seriousness of the relationship develops slowly, and is well-done and paced. The happy ending seems to come along too fast, but perhpas that is just me not wanting to finish the book so soon.
After firmly establishing their relationship, Jael and Quan call each other "My One", declaring the definition of their bond. I was moved by that term, especially since I read the story just after having found my own "My One". It is a powerful way to state the perfect joining, which was always waiting, has become, and always will be.
Sean Michael is proving to be an adept and fluid writer, comfortable in a number of genres. Give this a try!
