by Aimster (link)
Genre horror, suspense
Pairings Isaac/Nikki, Taylor/Natalie, Taylor/OFC, Taylor/OMC, Zac/Kate
Length 158 chapters and epilogue
Status Completed
Aimster basically has the market cornered on horror in hanfic right now. There’s no time to get comfortable before the horror starts in Lust, and it is definitely horrible. Much like Taylor’s descent into Stockholm Syndrome, it takes me a while to become comfortable with the details of this story, although the premise is unique enough to keep me going no matter what.
If you’re the least bit squeamish about medical procedures (I am), then you’ll find your eyes glazing over as you try to ignore certain passages. The initial reasoning for all the horror is simple and easy to understand, although that doesn’t mean the villain isn’t, well, a villain. As the story goes on, it becomes less and less simple, with a more complicated story for the villains (not all of which is eventually explained) becoming clearer and clearer. Just as Aimster develops the villains’ characters, she also shows Taylor’s descent into despair, depression and even Stockholm Syndrome. The conflict between the two villains makes Taylor’s sympathy for his kidnapper, Fenton, more believable so that I have to stop and think about it before I start to feel for him, too. This makes Taylor’s return to life when he is eventually rescued even more painful, but realistic, to read.
Ultimately, my nitpicks here are the same as ever. The Australianisms aren’t too jarring but they are still there, and her chapters are shorter than I prefer. But she wields her knowledge of Hanson trivia well and makes all the Hanson characters, even those who barely appear, seem very, very real. I can’t honestly say that I’m a fan of horror in any shape or form, and mixing it with BDSM (something I am a big fan of) makes it even more confusing. None of those elements are pleasant to read here, and I wouldn’t recommend Lust to anyone with even a remotely weak stomach, but I can’t deny that it’s a well-crafted story bound to keep you on your toes.
Review by Bethany (website)