Title: Catalyst
Author: Claire Russett
Genre: Science Fiction
Length: Novel (200 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 9th, 2012)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts ~ Liked it
Blurb: For the past four years, Dr. Jason Finely and Colonel Rick Tennant have served on the Union space station Argo as its chief science officer and military commander. Jason is the brains, Rick is the brawn. They have become good friends, but Jason wants more.
Jason is a brilliant scientist, but his lack of confidence leaves him unlucky in love. And Rick is so committed to his job he’s oblivious that his best friend’s feelings for him go beyond friendship.
When Rick finally shows interest in him, Jason is thrilled. Then he discovers Rick’s sudden attraction may be the result of a threat to Rick’s life. If Jason hopes to discover the truth, first he’ll have to save his friend
Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3333
Reviewer: Showme
Review: Jason Riley is a very smart guy and mostly happy with his job. It’s interesting and gives him the adventures he never knew he wanted. Jason secretly pines for Colonel Rick Tennant, his best friend and the man in charge of keeping him safe. Rick through Jason’s eyes is a beautiful and amazing soldier who would never give him the time of day. The author told us it’s because Jason prefers men and he thinks he’s beneath Rick’s notice as a possible lover. This I had a hard time believing because Jason never seemed shy or lacking in confidence. I could buy him thinking Rick wasn’t gay but nothing actually happened in the book to portray him as a ladies man. It was referred to that he had dated woman in the past but that was it. It was one of those instances where we were told one thing and the characters seem to tell another.
Rick’s character was more likable to me. He was a good guy and a good leader who cared about his people. Though he tried to keep his emotional distance from his new team he spends his private time seeking out Jason. It’s friendly things like playing chess or watching movies but he it’s usually with Jason. To anyone watching them the relationship would seem like a friendly one. Rick feels responsible for Jason and even though Jason is very important to Argo, the space station, it’s more than just work. He does care.