A Girl Walks Into a Bar

December 9, 2013
This erotic interactive novel—the first in a series from Paige, the pseudonym of Helen Moffett, Sarah Lotz, and Paige Nick—allows the reader to decide the course of an eventful, fantasy-filled night. The very first branching point focuses on the selection of underwear, but despite the illusion of choice, every road leads to the same destination: a purple G-string. Further encounters with various fantasy objects are likewise constrained or undermined. The rock star episode turns sad and sleazy if pushed too far, the millionaire’s desires prove too kinky (if the reader offers to accommodate him, the book asks, “Are you out of your mind?”), and the sole Sapphic seduction, while sensuous, is quickly followed by an affirmation of the protagonist’s heterosexuality. While every encounter is sexually satisfying, the less daring episodes are the ones that provide emotional fulfillment, though the protagonist always goes home alone. Some choices range from slapstick to mood-killing, but the erotic moments sizzle. Agent: Oli Munson, A.M. Heath Literary Agents.

Starred review from January 1, 2014

It's definitely girl's night out with this quirky twist on standard erotic fiction. Here, readers are the main characters, and the story is theirs to define. What starts off as a relaxing evening out with a friend has the potential to turn into much more with every decision readers make, from what underwear to don to whether they should stick around when the one-night stand whips out a paddle. This format allows for variety; with so many different paths, the book is essentially a collection of similar brief tales that can be enjoyed over and over. There are plenty of opportunities to have different types of fun and sexy encounters with different types of men (and women), which will be attractive to various kinks and sexual appetites. While the "customizable" aspect will engage, it also has a few shortcomings. Each tale is rather short, which could appeal to those looking for a quick dose of smut but might leave readers seeking a longer story unsatisfied. Every event takes place over the course of one night and includes one to two sex scenes per scenario. Readers might find things getting a bit repetitive or predictable after a few read-throughs. VERDICT This book is a great choice for those interested in a quick, raunchy read without a whole lot of plot; the sex scenes are explicit without being too graphic. Great for someone just delving into the genre; recommended for general erotica collections.

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