Designation: Null
by Jamie Kassel
Private Logan Burrows is a null, an anomaly in a world where modified soldiers are either Dominant or submissive. As long as his life is organized and he keeps the anger he feels toward Dominants close and burning bright in his chest, then he manages just fine. No one would suspect that he occasionally struggles with any pesky submissive quirks.
Then he’s sent on a mission to rescue Sergeant Robert Hanson, a kidnapped Dominant who isn’t like the others. First of all, he isn’t a jerk. Plus, he’s nice. And kind.
Worst of all, he’s gorgeous.
Being around Robert makes Logan want to submit. Not that he knows how. He’d be terrible at it. In fact, it would ruin his entire life if he gave in to the burgeoning desire he feels for the Dominant.
So he won’t.
It’s that easy…right?
.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Jamie Kassel's Designation: Null is a compelling exploration of identity, power dynamics, and the complexities of human emotion set against a backdrop of a dystopian world where soldiers are genetically modified to be either Dominant or submissive. The novel's protagonist, Private Logan Burrows, is an intriguing anomaly—a "null" who doesn't fit neatly into the binary classification that defines his society. This premise alone sets the stage for a narrative rich in tension and introspection.
From the outset, Kassel crafts a world that is both familiar and unsettling. The concept of a society where individuals are categorized based on their genetic predisposition to dominance or submission is a thought-provoking metaphor for the labels and roles imposed by societal norms. Logan's status as a null makes him an outsider, a character who must navigate a world that doesn't quite know what to do with him. This struggle is at the heart of the novel, providing a lens through which readers can examine their own experiences with identity and belonging.
Logan Burrows is a well-developed character whose internal conflict drives much of the narrative. His anger towards Dominants is palpable, yet it is tempered by a vulnerability that Kassel skillfully reveals through his interactions with others. The introduction of Sergeant Robert Hanson, a kidnapped Dominant who defies Logan's expectations, serves as a catalyst for Logan's personal growth. Robert is portrayed as kind, compassionate, and, perhaps most importantly, genuine. His presence challenges Logan's preconceived notions and forces him to confront the submissive tendencies he has long suppressed.
The relationship between Logan and Robert is central to the novel's emotional impact. Kassel handles their dynamic with sensitivity and nuance, avoiding the pitfalls of a simplistic power exchange narrative. Instead, the author delves into the complexities of consent, trust, and mutual respect. The chemistry between the two characters is undeniable, and their interactions are charged with a tension that is both exhilarating and poignant. As Logan grapples with his desire to submit to Robert, readers are invited to consider the ways in which vulnerability can be a source of strength rather than weakness.
One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of themes related to autonomy and self-discovery. Logan's journey is not just about finding his place in a rigidly structured world; it is also about understanding and accepting himself. Kassel deftly illustrates the internal struggle between societal expectations and personal desires, a theme that resonates with anyone who has ever felt pressured to conform. The narrative encourages readers to question the labels they have been assigned and to embrace the complexity of their own identities.
In terms of world-building, Kassel provides just enough detail to create a vivid setting without overwhelming the reader with exposition. The military environment is depicted with authenticity, and the hierarchical structure of Dominants and submissives is both intriguing and unsettling. This backdrop serves to heighten the stakes of Logan's personal journey, as he must navigate not only his own emotions but also the expectations of a society that demands conformity.
Comparatively, Designation: Null shares thematic similarities with other works that explore power dynamics and identity, such as Ann Leckie's Ancillary Justice or N.K. Jemisin's The Fifth Season. Like these novels, Kassel's work challenges readers to reconsider the nature of power and the ways in which it shapes our interactions with others. However, Kassel's focus on the intimate, personal aspects of these themes sets Designation: Null apart, offering a more introspective take on the genre.
Overall, Designation: Null is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a speculative twist. Jamie Kassel has crafted a narrative that is both entertaining and meaningful, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences with identity, power, and connection. The novel's exploration of these themes is both timely and timeless, making it a valuable addition to the canon of speculative fiction.
In conclusion, Designation: Null is a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the complexities of the human experience. Through Logan Burrows' journey, Jamie Kassel offers a poignant reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and the courage it takes to defy societal expectations. This novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers, encouraging them to embrace their own unique identities and to question the roles they have been assigned.
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