This week’s slash rec is Nasty by DPD.

Jasper, a successful psychiatrist, is approached by his mentor and good friend, Carlisle, to help his son who had recently lost his partner when he committed suicide. Reluctantly Jasper agrees to see Edward and patiently waits for him to open up and talk about the pain he’s experiencing. Adding to his reluctance is the fact that Jasper is attracted to his patient and has been for years. He just couldn’t do anything about it in the past because Edward was already in a relationship. Jasper walks a fine line of ethics: wanting to help Edward, but also desiring him in a way that could potentially hinder his progress.

Nasty was written for the Twilight Kink Fest, so it deals with a particular kind of kink that may make readers uncomfortable. I must admit that when I read certain passages I cringed, but it was handled in way that wasn’t outlandish or used solely for extreme shock value. What I particularly appreciated was the fact that the kink wasn’t the main focus of the story; the focus Edward’s healing, his learning to trust and love again, and living his life unencumbered by the pain and shame of his past. I will tell you flat out, seeing what Edward went through is disturbing and difficult to read at times, but watching him work through his problems, with Jasper’s help, is well worth it and gives a great sense of hope. Readers will also see that Edward isn't the only person keeping secrets and experiencing shame and low self-worth due to his past experiences.

Check out this engaging story that will easily hold your attention and leave you wanting to know more about its characters. The twists and turns will keep you on your toes!

4/17/12