Brief Encounters

Title: KLT23
Author: Missy Welsh
Length: 26 pdf pages
Publisher: MLR Press
Genre: m/m  futuristic
Rating: B

Blurb:
Sergeant Horatio Muir has fallen hard for the genetically-engineered super-soldier he’s been assigned to observe for the past several months. Now, when Kelty’s life hinges on the scientists who made him finding a cure for the illness slowly killing him, Muir might just be exactly what Kelty needs. Muir’s willing to sacrifice anything to save his man, including his heart, but will it be enough?

Review:
This futuristic SF short is set in a top secret government laboratory, where Sergeant Muir spends his days observing a genetically produced super soldier. When the soldier becomes ill with what seems like a case of the blue balls, Muir has the opportunity to cure his own as well as Kelty’s.

I spent quite a lot of time giggling to myself whilst reading this story. Not that it’s overtly funny, just that the author has such a dry sense of humour and fun which shows in the writing, I couldn’t help but be amused by the events on the pages. The story is mainly an erotic quickie between two beefy soldiers but has a light touch to the writing and characterisation, especially of Muir, that I found it a step above the usual erotic fayre. Muir’s hopeless longing for Kelty and his fears that KLT23 should turn out to be like one of the ‘failed’ experiments contrasted with his wicked delight in being able to live out the fantasies that had been going through his head for weeks. I also liked the cheeky way that things don’t turn out quite as expected for Muir, and yet also totally exceed his expectations.

My only complaint was the unnecessary romance at the end. I would have been quite happy to have left them basking in the afterglow of great sex, rather than have the ending sewn up. The story is romantic enough knowing that Muir is already mostly in love with Kelty and I didn’t need it reinforced by the plans made for the future. However, I know that some readers will probably be very happy about the way that all the boxes are checked and the heroes go off comfortably into their happy future, so it’s only a minor niggle really.

Overall, this new line of quickies by MLR Press works very well in this story – touted as a 10 minute read. It’s perfect for over lunch or before bed and I’d recommend it to all those who like their romance with a touch of humour and are looking for something a little different in a futuristic setting and an engaging hero.