Title: Trading Tridents
Author: C.M. Taylor
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Length: 32 Pages
Category: Contemporary
At a Glance: A fun story with two versions of Aquaman, fanboys, and conventions.
Reviewed By: Jennifer
Blurb: DecemberCon 2017. John Perlan, aka YouTuber “SmileyNibor,” has come to the con for one reason and one reason only: to see his idol, actor Derek Kitow. And since Derek has announced he’ll be dressed as the original Aquaman, Perlan decides to come as the Aquaman reboot. It helps that he already has the beard and the bod to make a convincing Momoaman.
But when Derek Kitow makes his entrance, he recognizes Perlan from his tiny YouTube channel and wants him onstage! Has Kitow been following him online? Could SmileyNibor’s hero also be a fan? And what exactly does Kitow have in mind by inviting Perlan to meet him after the panel?
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2017 Advent Calendar “Stocking Stuffers.”
Review: Having recently seen Justice League, and loving the Jason Momoa version of Aquaman, I thought this story was a fun, quick read. What’s better than a fanboy getting to meet his hero, and discovering his hero is a bit of a fan as well? I mean, getting noticed by our idols is what many of us dream of, right?
When John learns his favorite actor is going to a convention and will dress as Aquaman, John decides he needs to do something to get his attention, and dresses as the rebooted version of the same comic book character. And, get his attention it does. Not only does he get called up on stage, but Derek Kitow recognizes him and invites him to meet afterwards.
It’s every fanboys dream. And, of course, it leads to an adventurous time for the two men, with some BDSM elements, which was a pleasant surprise.
The one thing I didn’t get from this story was a strong winter/holiday theme. Sure, it takes place during DecemberCon, but aside from that, I really didn’t feel this was a holiday story. It could have taken place at any convention, and I honestly forgot I was reading a holiday book until I finished and look at the cover again.
Aside from that, I enjoyed the story. There’s no real HEA, but it’s not a sad ending either. I didn’t feel like John and Derek would end up together, but they had a good time together and were mutually happy in the end with their encounter.
You can buy Trading Tridents here:
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