"Heat" has been called sci-fi romance and/or dark erotica. For me, it was sci-fi and horror with romantic elements. This book is not for everybody, but for those willing to brave the rape, harvesting of brain chemicals, and extreme biker gang culture...then you may appreciate the gifts R. Lee Smith displays in this dark story.
The world-building was my favorite part of the writing . I loved the imagination detailed in the alien culture, particularly the 'good' alien's home planet's norms - they live in a matriarchal society and government. Also, their perceptions of the human race and the reasons for never making contact are not unexpected but the conversation is still engaging. Human origins is also broached. If you love sci-fi films you won't be surprised by some of these revelations.
The characterizations were fabulous! This is including the bad character, too! I was happy with one resolution, but another was not to my satisfaction. I was pissed (angry) about one character's actions and consequences. All I will say is atonement.
The pacing was great until the last 25% or so, where it started to drag. There is some gratuitous violence. One scene in particular pushed into my comfort zone. It was a decisive moment for me regarding one character. (view spoiler)
The detail accorded to technology, aliend physiology, and alien terminology made my inner Sci-fi fan girl sit up and absorb all the alien goodness! On a side note: I have noticed, especially after reading The Last Hour of Gann (Great book!), that the human heroines have the power of the BJ on their side. Heh. When I read Cottonwood I will know if it's a common occurance in Smith's writing.
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