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Nature of Desire #1
Holding the Cards
Book 1 in the Nature of Desire series.
Lauren is a successful doctor with a healthy attitude toward sex, unashamed of her proclivities as a sexual dominant. She wants love and a family, but she's beginning to believe there is no Mr. Right willing to stand by her in sickness and health...and be cuffed, stripped, and smacked with a riding crop.
Then her friend Lisette invites her to spend a long weekend on a private island. It turns out Lisette can't come with her, but Lauren opts to go anyway, with no one for company but Joshua, the island caretaker, and his visiting friend, Marcus. Though both men are beautiful, it is Joshua that catches Lauren's attention, and not just because Marcus prefers men.
Something in Josh's stormy eyes calls to her. When Marcus facilitates a game of submission and control between the three of them that will last throughout the weekend, Lauren embraces the opportunity. Josh overwhelms her with his willingness to submit to her body's desires, but her heart wants to get to the secrets behind those eyes. She is going to have to tear down his defenses and make him give her everything. And this is one Mistress who doesn't take no for an answer...
Lauren is a successful doctor with a healthy attitude toward sex, unashamed of her proclivities as a sexual dominant. She wants love and a family, but she's beginning to believe there is no Mr. Right willing to stand by her in sickness and health...and be cuffed, stripped, and smacked with a riding crop.
Then her friend Lisette invites her to spend a long weekend on a private island. It turns out Lisette can't come with her, but Lauren opts to go anyway, with no one for company but Joshua, the island caretaker, and his visiting friend, Marcus. Though both men are beautiful, it is Joshua that catches Lauren's attention, and not just because Marcus prefers men.
Something in Josh's stormy eyes calls to her. When Marcus facilitates a game of submission and control between the three of them that will last throughout the weekend, Lauren embraces the opportunity. Josh overwhelms her with his willingness to submit to her body's desires, but her heart wants to get to the secrets behind those eyes. She is going to have to tear down his defenses and make him give her everything. And this is one Mistress who doesn't take no for an answer...
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2002
150 people are currently reading
3191 people want to read
About the author
Joey W. Hill
117 books3,536 followers"BDSM Romance for the Heart & Soul"
A submissive herself, Hill brings authenticity to her intensely emotional BDSM love stories. With over fifty titles and seven series, her contemporary and paranormal romances feature everything from billionaires, bikers, SEALs, firefighters, cops and housemaids, to vampires, mermaids, witches and angels.
"Joey translates the world of BDSM with such intense power and exquisite beauty. LOVE is the most powerful element entwined through the Dominance and submission.” –Goodreads, Pink Lady
Joey is the recipient of the RT Book Reviews Career Achievement Award for Erotic Romance, and she loves to hear from her readers!
If you're on Bookbub, she'd love for you to follow her:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/joey-...
You can also find her here:
Website: storywitch.com
Facebook: @JoeyWHillAuthor
MeWe: mewe.com/i/joeywhill
Twitter: @JoeyWHill
A submissive herself, Hill brings authenticity to her intensely emotional BDSM love stories. With over fifty titles and seven series, her contemporary and paranormal romances feature everything from billionaires, bikers, SEALs, firefighters, cops and housemaids, to vampires, mermaids, witches and angels.
"Joey translates the world of BDSM with such intense power and exquisite beauty. LOVE is the most powerful element entwined through the Dominance and submission.” –Goodreads, Pink Lady
Joey is the recipient of the RT Book Reviews Career Achievement Award for Erotic Romance, and she loves to hear from her readers!
If you're on Bookbub, she'd love for you to follow her:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/joey-...
You can also find her here:
Website: storywitch.com
Facebook: @JoeyWHillAuthor
MeWe: mewe.com/i/joeywhill
Twitter: @JoeyWHill
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
November 23, 2012
I had to replace my picture, November 23, 2012
Review completed October 7, 2012
Passion was a flower with a fragile bloom, easily collapsed by frost. It was fortunate that it also had strong roots, able to survive in darkness for lengthy periods without dying away completely. Under the heat of Josh's passion, the flower was opening.
First of all let me say that I'm sorry that I haven't read this story sooner. What a great read! There is one character in this book who I simply love to pieces: Marcus. To-die-for-extraordinary-sexilicious-hot-as-all-get-out specimen of a male wonder. Admittedly, his grand appearance will follow in Rough Canvas, however, what this man did to me in Holding The Cards showed me again what a lasting impact he made on me. Well, if you haven't read Rough Canvas yet, then it's possible that you don't understand what I mean. I am so sorry that Marcus is playing for the other team. *sigh* As a matter of fact, Rough Canvas was a life-altering reading experience and Holding The Cards is proof that this man deserves a very special place in my heart. Forever. Having said that, I just realized that Marcus knocked Tate off his pedestal as my all-time favorite hero. Likewise, Holding The Cards made me want to re-read Rough Canvas. I just hope that Joey's next m-m novel will provide more of those unforgettable gay heroes.
Marcus loves Josh. He is his friend as well as his brother--family formed by circumstance rather than blood. Marcus feels very protective of Josh and he makes frequent trips to the island to check on his well-being.
Josh's ex-wife messed up his mind. His intelligent and beautiful spirit is struggling to heal itself despite his best efforts to keep the wounds open. There are some aspects of Josh that are not healthy and Lauren is determined to dig deep enough to unravel all of Josh's dark places and secrets.
I felt pretty shocked when Josh revealed his dark secret. This sentence knocked my socks off! His ex-wife I think there is a mighty fine line between sex games and brutality. And when the games turn into a power trip then it becomes very, very dangerous. Josh's ex used his vulnerability to abuse him emotionally.
Lauren actually is a very strong woman even though she feels insecure after her boyfriend cruelly dumped her. She is back to explore, to dip her toe back in. Being on the island is a safe place to play again, because it didn't feel real, it wasn't home.
Would he let her hold the cards until the game was over?
Lauren wants to challenge Josh, push him, see how far he would submit to her, but at the same time he would have to trust her. Completely. Let the game begin...
While reading this story I had to cherish some special and unforgettable moments, i.e. Lauren's erotic dream:
He covered her mouth with his and gave her air, the ability to breathe and live above the water's surface. He filled her with oxygen and all the substances that made life worth living.
Exquisite. An elegant, passionate word, reserved for an untouched box of Godiva chocolates, the sparkle of a diamond in sunlight, and this moment.
Another moment I had to devour was their sleeping (and I mean sleeping, no sex at all) together in the same bed. This particular scene truly wowed me--there was so much sensuality, intimacy and eroticism packed into this brilliant moment, it almost undid me.
And then there was this particular scene between Lauren and Marcus--they were talking about Marcus's love Thomas. I spoiler tagged it to shorten my review.
Oh, how I hurt for Marcus!
I have a minor quibble: Josh's POV was not enough present. A fair warning to those readers who love a HEA: there is a happy ending but it's more a HFN. Then again, the ending was very realistic and a vow of undying love would have felt unbelievable. The author convinced me that Lauren and Josh have a future together and nothing else matters.
As I said in my review of Reluctant Surrender I feel more comfortable with Femdom stories. And Joey is my erotica goddess. Granted, I didn't love every JWH book that I read to date but the Nature of Desire series is something exceptionally good. A-mazing. So far I devoured each and every book in this series and I'm glad that there are more stories to come.
Joey W. Hill proves time and again that an excellent erotic story is meant to be cherished. Never take it for granted. It's a gift that has been given to your senses and you have to appreciate it, worship it. Oh my goodness, she writes erotica like no one else!
Holding The Cards is a sensually and beautifully written erotic story that will strip everything away except your bare soul. This story is packed with devotion, sensuality, eroticism, pain and in the end something that feels like catharsis and absolution. It was liberating to witness Josh's trip from his self-inflicted punishment back to his normal self.
It's not only about a story or sex. It's about true emotions that embrace you and nurture your soul. Her stories matter.
Baba's Sexilicious Coefficient for Holding the Cards
I'm talking about a range from 1 (very low) up to 5 (very high). Keep in mind that steam ratings are going to be just as subjective as book ratings. And my rating does not reflect in any way how well written the sex scenes are.
Chemistry 3.5
Sensuality 5
Steam 4
Eroticism 5
Warning
While Holding the Cards is NOT a m-m novel, there is one scene that included some men lovin'. Just saying...
My ranking:
1) Mirror of My Soul and Rough Canvas (5 stars)
2) Ice Queen (5 stars)
3) Branded Sanctuary (4.5 stars)
4) Natural Law (4 stars although the hero is worthy of 5 shiny stars!)
5) Holding The Cards (4 stars)
Review completed October 7, 2012
Passion was a flower with a fragile bloom, easily collapsed by frost. It was fortunate that it also had strong roots, able to survive in darkness for lengthy periods without dying away completely. Under the heat of Josh's passion, the flower was opening.
First of all let me say that I'm sorry that I haven't read this story sooner. What a great read! There is one character in this book who I simply love to pieces: Marcus. To-die-for-extraordinary-sexilicious-hot-as-all-get-out specimen of a male wonder. Admittedly, his grand appearance will follow in Rough Canvas, however, what this man did to me in Holding The Cards showed me again what a lasting impact he made on me. Well, if you haven't read Rough Canvas yet, then it's possible that you don't understand what I mean. I am so sorry that Marcus is playing for the other team. *sigh* As a matter of fact, Rough Canvas was a life-altering reading experience and Holding The Cards is proof that this man deserves a very special place in my heart. Forever. Having said that, I just realized that Marcus knocked Tate off his pedestal as my all-time favorite hero. Likewise, Holding The Cards made me want to re-read Rough Canvas. I just hope that Joey's next m-m novel will provide more of those unforgettable gay heroes.
Marcus loves Josh. He is his friend as well as his brother--family formed by circumstance rather than blood. Marcus feels very protective of Josh and he makes frequent trips to the island to check on his well-being.
Josh's ex-wife messed up his mind. His intelligent and beautiful spirit is struggling to heal itself despite his best efforts to keep the wounds open. There are some aspects of Josh that are not healthy and Lauren is determined to dig deep enough to unravel all of Josh's dark places and secrets.
I felt pretty shocked when Josh revealed his dark secret. This sentence knocked my socks off! His ex-wife I think there is a mighty fine line between sex games and brutality. And when the games turn into a power trip then it becomes very, very dangerous. Josh's ex used his vulnerability to abuse him emotionally.
Lauren actually is a very strong woman even though she feels insecure after her boyfriend cruelly dumped her. She is back to explore, to dip her toe back in. Being on the island is a safe place to play again, because it didn't feel real, it wasn't home.
Would he let her hold the cards until the game was over?
Lauren wants to challenge Josh, push him, see how far he would submit to her, but at the same time he would have to trust her. Completely. Let the game begin...
While reading this story I had to cherish some special and unforgettable moments, i.e. Lauren's erotic dream:
He covered her mouth with his and gave her air, the ability to breathe and live above the water's surface. He filled her with oxygen and all the substances that made life worth living.
Exquisite. An elegant, passionate word, reserved for an untouched box of Godiva chocolates, the sparkle of a diamond in sunlight, and this moment.
Another moment I had to devour was their sleeping (and I mean sleeping, no sex at all) together in the same bed. This particular scene truly wowed me--there was so much sensuality, intimacy and eroticism packed into this brilliant moment, it almost undid me.
And then there was this particular scene between Lauren and Marcus--they were talking about Marcus's love Thomas. I spoiler tagged it to shorten my review.
Oh, how I hurt for Marcus!
I have a minor quibble: Josh's POV was not enough present. A fair warning to those readers who love a HEA: there is a happy ending but it's more a HFN. Then again, the ending was very realistic and a vow of undying love would have felt unbelievable. The author convinced me that Lauren and Josh have a future together and nothing else matters.
As I said in my review of Reluctant Surrender I feel more comfortable with Femdom stories. And Joey is my erotica goddess. Granted, I didn't love every JWH book that I read to date but the Nature of Desire series is something exceptionally good. A-mazing. So far I devoured each and every book in this series and I'm glad that there are more stories to come.
Joey W. Hill proves time and again that an excellent erotic story is meant to be cherished. Never take it for granted. It's a gift that has been given to your senses and you have to appreciate it, worship it. Oh my goodness, she writes erotica like no one else!
Holding The Cards is a sensually and beautifully written erotic story that will strip everything away except your bare soul. This story is packed with devotion, sensuality, eroticism, pain and in the end something that feels like catharsis and absolution. It was liberating to witness Josh's trip from his self-inflicted punishment back to his normal self.
It's not only about a story or sex. It's about true emotions that embrace you and nurture your soul. Her stories matter.
Baba's Sexilicious Coefficient for Holding the Cards
I'm talking about a range from 1 (very low) up to 5 (very high). Keep in mind that steam ratings are going to be just as subjective as book ratings. And my rating does not reflect in any way how well written the sex scenes are.
Chemistry 3.5
Sensuality 5
Steam 4
Eroticism 5
Warning
While Holding the Cards is NOT a m-m novel, there is one scene that included some men lovin'. Just saying...
My ranking:
1) Mirror of My Soul and Rough Canvas (5 stars)
2) Ice Queen (5 stars)
3) Branded Sanctuary (4.5 stars)
4) Natural Law (4 stars although the hero is worthy of 5 shiny stars!)
5) Holding The Cards (4 stars)
January 23, 2014
4.5 BUTTERFLY STARS!!!
This book is completely unrealistic! Which is why I loved it so much!
White elephant, tree climbing, dancing, art, massages on the beach, making sand castles….and of course, it wouldn’t be a Joey Hill book without BDSM. Lauren is a Domme. I think this was my first Domme story I’ve ever read, and I really loved it.
My Lauren:
Lauren is escaping a heart-breaking break-up from a man who chewed her up and spit her out. She is spending a few days on an island. Soon after she arrives, she meets one of the maintenance men, Josh, who assists her out of a pretty sticky, uncomfortable, and awkward situation…I know that sounds vague, but you just have to read the book to find out what the situation is (it’s hilarious).
My Josh:
Josh has dark secrets of his own. He has been threw a horrible divorce and has never really overcome the emotional trauma from it.
It doesn’t take long for Lauren and Josh to get hot and heavy. I was pretty much turned-on the whole book…I mean, it is a Joey Hill book after all. I didn’t mind how fast things moved because it is a shorter book and I just accepted early on that everything was unrealistic, yet entertaining. So I sat back and enjoyed every moment :).
My Marcus:
Let’s not forget about Marcus (Never. Never forget about Marcus!). Marcus is the second maintenance man. The gay one. It is obvious part of him feels something for Josh…well, mainly because he’s not afraid to share his feelings, but Josh isn’t gay. So Marcus functions as the sexual instigator for most of the book. He has a smart and sassy mouth that is irresistible. He has an odd role in the story, but the story would be empty without him!!!
I just felt so relaxed while reading this book. Yes, it still has the usual inner thoughts of the characters from a Joey book, but it was really laid back. It has a childish energy feel to it...uninhibited, animal instincts.
80% of this book is spent...naked. Another unrealistic part to it. But completely entertaining! :)
This book is completely unrealistic! Which is why I loved it so much!
White elephant, tree climbing, dancing, art, massages on the beach, making sand castles….and of course, it wouldn’t be a Joey Hill book without BDSM. Lauren is a Domme. I think this was my first Domme story I’ve ever read, and I really loved it.
My Lauren:
Lauren is escaping a heart-breaking break-up from a man who chewed her up and spit her out. She is spending a few days on an island. Soon after she arrives, she meets one of the maintenance men, Josh, who assists her out of a pretty sticky, uncomfortable, and awkward situation…I know that sounds vague, but you just have to read the book to find out what the situation is (it’s hilarious).
My Josh:
Josh has dark secrets of his own. He has been threw a horrible divorce and has never really overcome the emotional trauma from it.
It doesn’t take long for Lauren and Josh to get hot and heavy. I was pretty much turned-on the whole book…I mean, it is a Joey Hill book after all. I didn’t mind how fast things moved because it is a shorter book and I just accepted early on that everything was unrealistic, yet entertaining. So I sat back and enjoyed every moment :).
My Marcus:
Let’s not forget about Marcus (Never. Never forget about Marcus!). Marcus is the second maintenance man. The gay one. It is obvious part of him feels something for Josh…well, mainly because he’s not afraid to share his feelings, but Josh isn’t gay. So Marcus functions as the sexual instigator for most of the book. He has a smart and sassy mouth that is irresistible. He has an odd role in the story, but the story would be empty without him!!!
I just felt so relaxed while reading this book. Yes, it still has the usual inner thoughts of the characters from a Joey book, but it was really laid back. It has a childish energy feel to it...uninhibited, animal instincts.
80% of this book is spent...naked. Another unrealistic part to it. But completely entertaining! :)
August 6, 2016
3.5 Stars
I'll admit, female Dommes are not quite my cuppa. I was a little hesitant to read this one, but a friend recommended that I read this one before diving into Rough Canvas. Well I am so glad I let myself be convinced (take note, Irene, you won't hear this from me often LOL)
Joey Hill has a gift. She is able to take something as rudimentary as sex and weave it into almost poetic story telling. Cheesy sounding, I know. But true nonetheless. Her writing style is what continually draws me to her books.
The fact that she is also able to create heroines that have an incredible core of emotional strength that somehow have an endearing sensitivity to them is no small feat either.
This book takes place over a few days, yet she is able to not only make you see the connection between Josh and Lauren, but feel it as well.
Both Lauren and Josh have experienced traumatic heartbreak that they're running from. Lauren feel drawn to the pain she sees inside Josh's eyes, the Domme in her can't help but answer the call to help the beautiful man break free of his demons.
They each have a reason to fear intimacy, having been through what they have. Yet the connection they feel is hard to ignore.
Why not 5 stars then? Well, while I did enjoy it, I doubt this would be anything I would come back to. I do prefer male Doms in my BDSM books, so I tend to stick to that. I will, however, be putting that bias aside to read the rest of this series. Joey can do no wrong in my eyes.
The little taste I got of Marcus in this book was my favorite part. I am absolutely salivating for his book next.
If you haven't read this author yet, and enjoy amazingly written BDSM romance, this series is a huge rec from me.
Though I do feel it fair to mention that Joey's books are not the ones you break yourd BDSM cherry with. They are not light by any means, but so worth the read.
For more reviews visit
I'll admit, female Dommes are not quite my cuppa. I was a little hesitant to read this one, but a friend recommended that I read this one before diving into Rough Canvas. Well I am so glad I let myself be convinced (take note, Irene, you won't hear this from me often LOL)
Joey Hill has a gift. She is able to take something as rudimentary as sex and weave it into almost poetic story telling. Cheesy sounding, I know. But true nonetheless. Her writing style is what continually draws me to her books.
The fact that she is also able to create heroines that have an incredible core of emotional strength that somehow have an endearing sensitivity to them is no small feat either.
This book takes place over a few days, yet she is able to not only make you see the connection between Josh and Lauren, but feel it as well.
Both Lauren and Josh have experienced traumatic heartbreak that they're running from. Lauren feel drawn to the pain she sees inside Josh's eyes, the Domme in her can't help but answer the call to help the beautiful man break free of his demons.
They each have a reason to fear intimacy, having been through what they have. Yet the connection they feel is hard to ignore.
Why not 5 stars then? Well, while I did enjoy it, I doubt this would be anything I would come back to. I do prefer male Doms in my BDSM books, so I tend to stick to that. I will, however, be putting that bias aside to read the rest of this series. Joey can do no wrong in my eyes.
The little taste I got of Marcus in this book was my favorite part. I am absolutely salivating for his book next.
If you haven't read this author yet, and enjoy amazingly written BDSM romance, this series is a huge rec from me.
Though I do feel it fair to mention that Joey's books are not the ones you break yourd BDSM cherry with. They are not light by any means, but so worth the read.
For more reviews visit
June 2, 2015
It's no secret that Joey W. Hill is my favorite author when it comes to all things erotic/BDSM. No one and I mean NOT ONE OTHER AUTHOR writes BDSM quite as sensual and full of feels the way Joey does it.
Having said that, there will be no pink furry cuffs or light spanking here so if you don't 'get' the whole dynamic of BDSM relationship and are easily offended by books such as 50 shades, this is NOT an author for you.
I have yet to meet a character of Joey's I haven't loved. Every one of them has a story to tell and most of them make you want to climb into their book and hold them as they bare their soul to you!
Josh is no exception. Even though this story is Lauren's to tell, Josh will make your heart ache in the process. Most of the events in this book happen over the weekend on an exotic island so this is a true testament to Joey as a writer because she makes you feel as if you spent a lifetime with this couple ... A lot of the questions get answered via flashbacks and conversations Lauren has with Josh's good friend Marcus. (Marcus has a book of his own in this series called 'Rough Canvas' which can be read as standalone but I always recommend you read 'Holding the Cards' first because, even though he isn't a main character in this story, he plays a huge part in it and you get to know him really well and even get glimpses of him and Thomas together.)
Lauren is a Domme and I have to admit that I was never a fan of Dommes but Joey made a convert out of me. Most books in Nature of Desire series feature Dommes and even though it may not be you cuppa, you must give these stories a try because most of the male subs are so alpha that at times you have a hard time deciding who is bring who to their knees.
With every book of Joey's I read, I keep saying to myself "This is my new favorite couple" and this book was no different. Lauren and Josh stole a piece of my heart and I am more than OK with it.
May 3, 2010
Holding the Cards tells the tale of Lauren, a female Dom, who escapes to an isolated tropical island to try and heal a broken heart. It's been a while since she broke up with her "submissive" boyfriend, Jonathon, but somehow she hasn't been able to move on. Lauren's feelings of hopelessness is exacerbated by her anxieties about getting old and her instense longing to find love and have a family.
On the island she meets our hero, Josh, a beautiful tattooed stranger with secretive, vulnerable eyes and his handsome gay friend, Marcus. Lauren is immediately taken with the two studs, but there's something extraordinary about Josh. She can't seem to get visions of him bound and strapped and bearing the blunt rasps of her riding crop out of her mind.
However, there's a challenge. Josh may be a sub, but he's no pushover. Though he's also drawn to Lauren, he's not in any hurry to get involved with anyone anytime soon. He himself is still trying to get over a nasty break-up from an ex-wife whose perverse sexual proclivities almost destroyed him.
Lauren realises she has her work cut out for her. Getting this 'submissive' to kneel before his Mistress and bear the very essense of his soul to her will not be easy. That's where the handsome co-Dom and Josh's "platonic" friend, Marcus, supposedly comes in...
This is my first book by this author and I must say I'm quite impressed with Hill's writing talent. Actively descriptive and visual, she uses beautiful, very lyrical prose which engage and place the senses of both her characters and the reader right in the thick of what is happening in any given scene.
However, while I'm obviously in awe of Hill's pen, I did have a few issues with the book:
Hill seems to be building a reputation for herself as an up and coming wordsmith, and she does deserve accolades, but while reading this book I sometimes felt she went into too much detail about mundane things. The sexual tension between the characters ran high, but was drawn out a tad too long for this reader's taste. There were moments when a scene would drag on and on to the point where I became frustrated waiting for the narrative to get back to the story.
I also couldn't understand the significance of Marcus's presence on the island. I'll go ahead and put it out there that while I went into this book with my eyes wide open I usually don't seek out books with M/M interactions. I decided to read this book because I really want to read Hill's Natural Law, but considering I'm a stickler for reading series books in order I felt compelled to read HTC, which is Book 1 in the Nature of Desire series, first.
I don't regret that I did. Lauren, Josh and Marcus are all likeable characters. I actually found Marcus's personality a lot more interesting and fleshed out than Josh's. He was a character with layers, not just a caricature of a man defined by an unusual sexual preference. So while I don't tend to seek out MM couplings in my books, this wasn't the main issue for me at all.
Before reading Holding the Cards I conversed on email with Ms. Hill and she explained Marcus as a presence which facilitates Josh opening himself up to Lauren. However upon reading the book I didn't quite get that impression. Marcus's presence on the island seemed pretentious, like nothing more than a plot device to justify his activities with Josh. As far as I could see, the character served no real purpose in the development of the relationship between Josh and Lauren, the protagonists of this book.
Josh is apparently a straight man. Lauren held the cards in this "game", so to speak, so whatever she said went, and this applied to both men even though Marcus himself is a dom. Thus, whatever "facilitation" he provided, Lauren, with her talents, could have easily done without. Josh may have presented certain challenges, but there was nothing to suggest she couldn't have gotten to him eventually. In fact she did, and with very little help from Marcus when the actual unveiling of Josh's "demons" occurred.
Marcus simply ended up being an annoying third wheel who felt more like an intrusion into Josh and Lauren's private world rather than any true "facilitator". His presence added nothing to the action, neither enhanced nor took away from it. For reasons I could not detect, he would appear at certain moments, then conveniently disappear at others as if working only to the tune of Hill's literary whims rather than a rational sequence of moving the story forward.
It was all just a tad too convenient to be truly convincing.
I don't dabble in the bdsm subgenre often. It's simply fun to add a different type of spice to my reading choices every once in a while. Reading about a female Dom and a male sub certainly put an interesting spin on things. Lauren, though she ruled in the "dungeon" was alternately sweet and vulnerable outside her little sexual "games". Within it, she's firm, but never a bitch. Josh is probably not the type of hero I usually like, but as I said earlier he wasn't a pushover.
All in all, this was considerably more hardcore than anything I've ever been interested to read, but according to many Hill fans Holding the Cards is just the tip of the iceberg. Apparently things get much heavier in subsequent books in the Nature of Desire series.
This novel certainly nudged me out of my comfort zone on more than one level, and ultimately, I can not determine if Hill's work is my cup of tea, but I shall look forward to testing my limits further in an effort to find out.
Recommendable for those who don't mind a little kinky sex and or some M/M loving.
On the island she meets our hero, Josh, a beautiful tattooed stranger with secretive, vulnerable eyes and his handsome gay friend, Marcus. Lauren is immediately taken with the two studs, but there's something extraordinary about Josh. She can't seem to get visions of him bound and strapped and bearing the blunt rasps of her riding crop out of her mind.
However, there's a challenge. Josh may be a sub, but he's no pushover. Though he's also drawn to Lauren, he's not in any hurry to get involved with anyone anytime soon. He himself is still trying to get over a nasty break-up from an ex-wife whose perverse sexual proclivities almost destroyed him.
Lauren realises she has her work cut out for her. Getting this 'submissive' to kneel before his Mistress and bear the very essense of his soul to her will not be easy. That's where the handsome co-Dom and Josh's "platonic" friend, Marcus, supposedly comes in...
This is my first book by this author and I must say I'm quite impressed with Hill's writing talent. Actively descriptive and visual, she uses beautiful, very lyrical prose which engage and place the senses of both her characters and the reader right in the thick of what is happening in any given scene.
However, while I'm obviously in awe of Hill's pen, I did have a few issues with the book:
Hill seems to be building a reputation for herself as an up and coming wordsmith, and she does deserve accolades, but while reading this book I sometimes felt she went into too much detail about mundane things. The sexual tension between the characters ran high, but was drawn out a tad too long for this reader's taste. There were moments when a scene would drag on and on to the point where I became frustrated waiting for the narrative to get back to the story.
I also couldn't understand the significance of Marcus's presence on the island. I'll go ahead and put it out there that while I went into this book with my eyes wide open I usually don't seek out books with M/M interactions. I decided to read this book because I really want to read Hill's Natural Law, but considering I'm a stickler for reading series books in order I felt compelled to read HTC, which is Book 1 in the Nature of Desire series, first.
I don't regret that I did. Lauren, Josh and Marcus are all likeable characters. I actually found Marcus's personality a lot more interesting and fleshed out than Josh's. He was a character with layers, not just a caricature of a man defined by an unusual sexual preference. So while I don't tend to seek out MM couplings in my books, this wasn't the main issue for me at all.
Before reading Holding the Cards I conversed on email with Ms. Hill and she explained Marcus as a presence which facilitates Josh opening himself up to Lauren. However upon reading the book I didn't quite get that impression. Marcus's presence on the island seemed pretentious, like nothing more than a plot device to justify his activities with Josh. As far as I could see, the character served no real purpose in the development of the relationship between Josh and Lauren, the protagonists of this book.
Josh is apparently a straight man. Lauren held the cards in this "game", so to speak, so whatever she said went, and this applied to both men even though Marcus himself is a dom. Thus, whatever "facilitation" he provided, Lauren, with her talents, could have easily done without. Josh may have presented certain challenges, but there was nothing to suggest she couldn't have gotten to him eventually. In fact she did, and with very little help from Marcus when the actual unveiling of Josh's "demons" occurred.
Marcus simply ended up being an annoying third wheel who felt more like an intrusion into Josh and Lauren's private world rather than any true "facilitator". His presence added nothing to the action, neither enhanced nor took away from it. For reasons I could not detect, he would appear at certain moments, then conveniently disappear at others as if working only to the tune of Hill's literary whims rather than a rational sequence of moving the story forward.
It was all just a tad too convenient to be truly convincing.
I don't dabble in the bdsm subgenre often. It's simply fun to add a different type of spice to my reading choices every once in a while. Reading about a female Dom and a male sub certainly put an interesting spin on things. Lauren, though she ruled in the "dungeon" was alternately sweet and vulnerable outside her little sexual "games". Within it, she's firm, but never a bitch. Josh is probably not the type of hero I usually like, but as I said earlier he wasn't a pushover.
All in all, this was considerably more hardcore than anything I've ever been interested to read, but according to many Hill fans Holding the Cards is just the tip of the iceberg. Apparently things get much heavier in subsequent books in the Nature of Desire series.
This novel certainly nudged me out of my comfort zone on more than one level, and ultimately, I can not determine if Hill's work is my cup of tea, but I shall look forward to testing my limits further in an effort to find out.
Recommendable for those who don't mind a little kinky sex and or some M/M loving.
July 17, 2014
2.5 stars
What to say, what to say... *sigh* I just didn't get into this book, unfortunately. There were hot scenes aplenty, but the other scenes, where I should see H/h connecting, and falling in love, were lacking for me.
First, what I did like.
I liked Marcus, who is incredibly funny.
The hot scenes were, as I've said, hot.
The idea of one person holding the high card and people having the freedom to disregard their usual issues and problems and do what they want to do without over-thinking it.
I did like Josh, but he had too little limelight time, so I didn't understand him.
What I did not like or thought was missing
Josh's POV-this I missed the most. We saw his thoughts for a few pages at the end of the book, but the rest of the time, he didn't feel REAL to me. He was just a wounded sub who existed only is Lauren's eyes, as her another chance for love. Since his history is extremely interesting, I would've liked to see how he was handling this very stressful and different situation the whole time.
I did NOT like Lauren. She just wasn't likable for me. I get her pain after her last relationship, but, whateva.
The "relationship" was way too fast and unbelievable. I couldn't believe they really fell in love then.
I didn't like the way BDSM was shown at the end of the book. When Lauren is trying to get his secrets via it to help him heal.
The cover is AWFUL.
The ending wasn't a full HEA, IMO
Quotes
"A slave was supposed to have no secrets, expose his or her fears, worries and longings to the Mistress, and the Mistress would address them as she saw fit. It was the way the game worked. It was that automatic vulnerability, impossible to avoid, that gave the Dom such a dangerous edge, that made D/s walk so close to the darkness."
“ You're being too nice about all this," she said.
"You're right about that," he said, surprising her. "If you'd stop being so pitiful, I could drop the whole chivalry thing and stare at your tits."
"He had taught her the difference between torture and teasing, sado-masochism and sexual dominance for pleasure. She wanted to tease Josh, arouse him, make him ache for her, but not deny him, or her, not ultimately. It was a fine line. When emotions got involved, judgment could become clouded, especially when emotions were tied up in shadows of the past. She intended to dispel those shadows, for the both of them."
"At heart, people were animals, burrowing in holes with their hurts, never realizing they would die in those holes if they did not summon the courage to drag themselves out and let themselves be healed."
"Her mother had once told her that the difference between love and all the lesser imitations of it was so startling, so powerful in its contrast, that once she had actually felt it, she would never mistake anything else for it again. Lauren hadn't known what she was talking about, because the perversity of love was, until you experienced it for the first time, there was no way to distinguish it from the other versions."
What to say, what to say... *sigh* I just didn't get into this book, unfortunately. There were hot scenes aplenty, but the other scenes, where I should see H/h connecting, and falling in love, were lacking for me.
First, what I did like.
I liked Marcus, who is incredibly funny.
The hot scenes were, as I've said, hot.
The idea of one person holding the high card and people having the freedom to disregard their usual issues and problems and do what they want to do without over-thinking it.
I did like Josh, but he had too little limelight time, so I didn't understand him.
What I did not like or thought was missing
Josh's POV-this I missed the most. We saw his thoughts for a few pages at the end of the book, but the rest of the time, he didn't feel REAL to me. He was just a wounded sub who existed only is Lauren's eyes, as her another chance for love. Since his history is extremely interesting, I would've liked to see how he was handling this very stressful and different situation the whole time.
I did NOT like Lauren. She just wasn't likable for me. I get her pain after her last relationship, but, whateva.
The "relationship" was way too fast and unbelievable. I couldn't believe they really fell in love then.
I didn't like the way BDSM was shown at the end of the book. When Lauren is trying to get his secrets via it to help him heal.
The cover is AWFUL.
The ending wasn't a full HEA, IMO
Quotes
"A slave was supposed to have no secrets, expose his or her fears, worries and longings to the Mistress, and the Mistress would address them as she saw fit. It was the way the game worked. It was that automatic vulnerability, impossible to avoid, that gave the Dom such a dangerous edge, that made D/s walk so close to the darkness."
“ You're being too nice about all this," she said.
"You're right about that," he said, surprising her. "If you'd stop being so pitiful, I could drop the whole chivalry thing and stare at your tits."
"He had taught her the difference between torture and teasing, sado-masochism and sexual dominance for pleasure. She wanted to tease Josh, arouse him, make him ache for her, but not deny him, or her, not ultimately. It was a fine line. When emotions got involved, judgment could become clouded, especially when emotions were tied up in shadows of the past. She intended to dispel those shadows, for the both of them."
"At heart, people were animals, burrowing in holes with their hurts, never realizing they would die in those holes if they did not summon the courage to drag themselves out and let themselves be healed."
"Her mother had once told her that the difference between love and all the lesser imitations of it was so startling, so powerful in its contrast, that once she had actually felt it, she would never mistake anything else for it again. Lauren hadn't known what she was talking about, because the perversity of love was, until you experienced it for the first time, there was no way to distinguish it from the other versions."
February 5, 2018
**3.5 stars**
Joey's brilliant writing can make anything work. And although I'm on the fence about Lauren, my heart broke and healed for Josh. He really was the star of the book.
I was initially planning on skipping this book in the series, but was told to read it as my introduction to Marcus. So glad I got to meet him before I start Rough Canvas!
Read
May 8, 2018DNF
It has happened. I can't take it anymore. It's not the story, it's not the characters, it's the writing. I started reading this in October 2017. One page per week. I broke down today.
As Elena and Teal were saying, life is too short for bad books.
It has happened. I can't take it anymore. It's not the story, it's not the characters, it's the writing. I started reading this in October 2017. One page per week. I broke down today.
As Elena and Teal were saying, life is too short for bad books.
March 15, 2023
Purchase Amazon Dec 11, 2021
3.75 Stars
It was so much more than I expected.
Well written.
So 'make you grin' parts.
Well paced.
Hot and steamy.
My biggest grip would be the beginning.
I think the author tends to get too caught up in unnecessary descriptions on occasion.
It took two chapters for her to say goodbye to her friend and get to the island.
This happened a couple of times in the story. Over described areas that slowed the story down.
But for the most part, it held my attention and I loved ALL the characters.
I will be reading more of this series this year.
DE BR 2/20/23
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
3.75 Stars
It was so much more than I expected.
Well written.
So 'make you grin' parts.
Well paced.
Hot and steamy.
My biggest grip would be the beginning.
I think the author tends to get too caught up in unnecessary descriptions on occasion.
It took two chapters for her to say goodbye to her friend and get to the island.
This happened a couple of times in the story. Over described areas that slowed the story down.
But for the most part, it held my attention and I loved ALL the characters.
I will be reading more of this series this year.
DE BR 2/20/23
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
July 23, 2016
4.5 stars
March 12, 2013
For more of my reviews click here
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There was an intimacy to a relationship between a Dominant and submissive that pulled on the elemental need for unconditional love and trust.
Why have I not read this sooner???? It has been on my to read list forever.....
This book will pull you in. Joey Hill's writing style is one of my favorites, and her BDSM scenes, she knocked it out of the park.
1 women and 2 men on a island together. Ohhh I know it is going to be good!
Lauren is a female Dom. Goes to her friends house on an island to get away from everyone, and the demons from her past. 2 men are also on the island but her friend insures her they will not bother her.
She finds her self stuck in a tree with only a towel on. Due to the fact she locked her self out of the house. Josh comes to her rescue and she finds a deepness connection to him.
Josh has more demons in his closet. I couldn't decide if I wanted to hug him all the time or just let him carry me away!
Then there is Marcus. He is a crack up and very loving.
I am not going to mention what happens cause I feel that you would need to read this and don't want to ruin nothing. :P
"D/s can be dangerous, because it explores the most primitive sides of ourselves. Those involved must have a high degree of trust and very, very healthy devotion to one another. Like religion, it can be a spiritually enlightening experience, or it an expression of psychosis. And somewhere in between, it can be tremendously fun."
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I fell in love with all 3 characters. They have a strong bond from the start till the end. I felt so much connection with these characters.
I am eager to know what the next book is going to be about. Looking forward to them all.
Bravo Joey Hill
Like me on facebook
There was an intimacy to a relationship between a Dominant and submissive that pulled on the elemental need for unconditional love and trust.
Why have I not read this sooner???? It has been on my to read list forever.....
This book will pull you in. Joey Hill's writing style is one of my favorites, and her BDSM scenes, she knocked it out of the park.
1 women and 2 men on a island together. Ohhh I know it is going to be good!
Lauren is a female Dom. Goes to her friends house on an island to get away from everyone, and the demons from her past. 2 men are also on the island but her friend insures her they will not bother her.
She finds her self stuck in a tree with only a towel on. Due to the fact she locked her self out of the house. Josh comes to her rescue and she finds a deepness connection to him.
Josh has more demons in his closet. I couldn't decide if I wanted to hug him all the time or just let him carry me away!
Then there is Marcus. He is a crack up and very loving.
I am not going to mention what happens cause I feel that you would need to read this and don't want to ruin nothing. :P
"D/s can be dangerous, because it explores the most primitive sides of ourselves. Those involved must have a high degree of trust and very, very healthy devotion to one another. Like religion, it can be a spiritually enlightening experience, or it an expression of psychosis. And somewhere in between, it can be tremendously fun."
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I fell in love with all 3 characters. They have a strong bond from the start till the end. I felt so much connection with these characters.
I am eager to know what the next book is going to be about. Looking forward to them all.
Bravo Joey Hill
February 2, 2013
This book was such a disappointment, especially since I've been reading the series out of order (most of the books are stand alone) and had a good experience with the Ice Queen, Mirror of my Soul and Natural Law. I think if I had read this series in order, I would have stopped after this book.
I found the story boring. I didn't feel like Lauren was really a Dominant even though she could pull it off when she got in the zone. I thought Josh and his ex-wife's relationship was interesting once Lauren discovered that he was really the submissive and his ex-wife had been the Dom.
What I think turned me off the most was when Marcus and Josh had sex. Josh wasn't bi although Marcus was gay. They're best friends and obviously have a deep bond. Was it really necessary for them to have sex? Of course, it was under the disguise of "pleasing" his Mistress, but it just seemed gratuitous to me.
I had been intrigued about Josh and Lauren when I read about them in the Ice Queen books. It seemed like there was such a complex and riveting relationship between them in those books. Well, there wasn't. What a let down.
I found the story boring. I didn't feel like Lauren was really a Dominant even though she could pull it off when she got in the zone. I thought Josh and his ex-wife's relationship was interesting once Lauren discovered that he was really the submissive and his ex-wife had been the Dom.
What I think turned me off the most was when Marcus and Josh had sex. Josh wasn't bi although Marcus was gay. They're best friends and obviously have a deep bond. Was it really necessary for them to have sex? Of course, it was under the disguise of "pleasing" his Mistress, but it just seemed gratuitous to me.
I had been intrigued about Josh and Lauren when I read about them in the Ice Queen books. It seemed like there was such a complex and riveting relationship between them in those books. Well, there wasn't. What a let down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2012
Joey W Hill has a beautiful writing style, and it suited this story so well.
I have read a couple of her vampire books, so I was willing to give this series a read, and I am so glad I did. This was a lovely romance, where two broken people helped each other heal. The story wasn't crowded with characters, which I enjoyed. I really got to spend my reading time with just a few characters who I got to really feel for. I will be reading more of this series, as soon as I find the money to buy them, and the time to read them. Another must-read series on my forever growing wish list.
I have read a couple of her vampire books, so I was willing to give this series a read, and I am so glad I did. This was a lovely romance, where two broken people helped each other heal. The story wasn't crowded with characters, which I enjoyed. I really got to spend my reading time with just a few characters who I got to really feel for. I will be reading more of this series, as soon as I find the money to buy them, and the time to read them. Another must-read series on my forever growing wish list.
May 23, 2022
3.25 Stars
It was not bad but the style of writing was not my favorite. Also, at the start, I felt bored because of the pace of the story. Even though it’s short, it felt really long and stretched out.
I liked the characters but everything moved way too fast and I felt like the characters could have had a little bit more depth. I liked that the woman was the dominant one in the book, it was a nice change.
If you like to read about dominant woman, friendship and a little of emotional moments, you should check this out. This wasn’t my favorite thing but maybe it’ll be yours. Toodles!
It was not bad but the style of writing was not my favorite. Also, at the start, I felt bored because of the pace of the story. Even though it’s short, it felt really long and stretched out.
I liked the characters but everything moved way too fast and I felt like the characters could have had a little bit more depth. I liked that the woman was the dominant one in the book, it was a nice change.
If you like to read about dominant woman, friendship and a little of emotional moments, you should check this out. This wasn’t my favorite thing but maybe it’ll be yours. Toodles!
September 10, 2016
I've been a fan if Ms. Hill for a long time. I haven't read all of her earlier work and I'm slowing making my way to them. This is a 3.5 star for me. It's interesting to see Ms. Hill's growth in BDSM through her books. This earlier one is focused on more the relationship than the scenes. It's quite well done.
Here's a few quotes that really caught my attention.
“That’s how the game was meant to be played. Savoring, drawing it out, cherishing, never taking for granted the gift that has been given to your senses. You must appreciate it, worship it, even as you run your tongue over it and melt away the outer casing to get to the cream beneath. You hold it captive as long as you can, intending on bringing out its richest flavors before allowing it to explode, and be consumed.
“Jonathan,” his lip curled in a sneer, and his eyes flashed back to Lauren, “had a serious eating disorder.” A drop of rain spattered on Lauren’s knee. Thunder rumbled lazily in the distance.
“How about we take lunch inside?” Marcus offered. He jerked his head toward Josh, a twinkle in his eye. (pg. 164, loc. 3121-3129)
Oh boy, when do I receive my piece of chocolate? And I don't even like chocolate!
“Face down,” she trailed her fingers up his bare arm, “cheek pressed against that broad rump, your wrists strapped to the hind quarters, ankles to his forelegs,” she directed his attention there.
“And then I can plunge that rubber cock into your ass until you scream and buck like one of your young men would.”(pg. 182, loc. 3465-3467)
Check please! I'm ready! When can I get in on this scene?
There was no orgasm as intense as one that you had to work for, work for like a son of a bitch, endure being pleasurably teased and teased ever higher. (pg. 186, loc. 3535-3536)
Right, so again, where do I sign up for this? Seriously, I want some of this!
The story pace for me was too slow. I understand the build up, but it really could have been cut down for me. The dragging out of how Jonathan hurt Lauren was too much for me. Trying to find out what happened to Josh felt the same for me.
Because it took so long, when the truth was revealed, I'm already a bit disinterested. This is not to say I didn't feel dread or moved when I learned what happened. It was just not as great an impact because I waited so long.
From a BDSM perspective, the D/s dynamic is well explored. I've always found Ms. Hill's BDSM to be very good. She really gets it. She shows different sides of it that I appreciate.
Overall this is an enjoyable read. There are some very hawt parts. The menage is quite delicious. Recommended to those who like enjoy Femdom D/s with a co-dominant male.
Here's a few quotes that really caught my attention.
“That’s how the game was meant to be played. Savoring, drawing it out, cherishing, never taking for granted the gift that has been given to your senses. You must appreciate it, worship it, even as you run your tongue over it and melt away the outer casing to get to the cream beneath. You hold it captive as long as you can, intending on bringing out its richest flavors before allowing it to explode, and be consumed.
“Jonathan,” his lip curled in a sneer, and his eyes flashed back to Lauren, “had a serious eating disorder.” A drop of rain spattered on Lauren’s knee. Thunder rumbled lazily in the distance.
“How about we take lunch inside?” Marcus offered. He jerked his head toward Josh, a twinkle in his eye. (pg. 164, loc. 3121-3129)
Oh boy, when do I receive my piece of chocolate? And I don't even like chocolate!
“Face down,” she trailed her fingers up his bare arm, “cheek pressed against that broad rump, your wrists strapped to the hind quarters, ankles to his forelegs,” she directed his attention there.
“And then I can plunge that rubber cock into your ass until you scream and buck like one of your young men would.”(pg. 182, loc. 3465-3467)
Check please! I'm ready! When can I get in on this scene?
There was no orgasm as intense as one that you had to work for, work for like a son of a bitch, endure being pleasurably teased and teased ever higher. (pg. 186, loc. 3535-3536)
Right, so again, where do I sign up for this? Seriously, I want some of this!
The story pace for me was too slow. I understand the build up, but it really could have been cut down for me. The dragging out of how Jonathan hurt Lauren was too much for me. Trying to find out what happened to Josh felt the same for me.
Because it took so long, when the truth was revealed, I'm already a bit disinterested. This is not to say I didn't feel dread or moved when I learned what happened. It was just not as great an impact because I waited so long.
From a BDSM perspective, the D/s dynamic is well explored. I've always found Ms. Hill's BDSM to be very good. She really gets it. She shows different sides of it that I appreciate.
Overall this is an enjoyable read. There are some very hawt parts. The menage is quite delicious. Recommended to those who like enjoy Femdom D/s with a co-dominant male.
February 10, 2014
I always feel a bit badly rating less than three stars. I know this book/series really worked for a good number of people. Sadly, I'm just not one of them. So why? I came up with four main reasons...
First, aside from the sex, the main part of the plot was the re-telling of personal histories. Nothing really happened in real time except sex or situations that lead to sexual situations. I needed some real life stuff. It also didn't make sense to me that they shared their deepest hurts so quickly. They both were people whose trust had been horribly broken so the sharing didn't ring true for me, especially considering there was very, very little D/s trust building IMO. (Although honestly the was very little BDSM play. Submission, yes, but very little BDSM play.)
Second, I have a hard time with what I feel like is the cookie cutter build up leading to MMF ménage. I takes away from the excitement when I know pretty much what will happen next.
Third, Marcus. Although I liked him as a character, but he felt out of place to me. It almost felt like inviting Dr. Phil into your bedroom to supervise.
Fourth, Lauren wasn't a convincing Dominatrix to me. I realize she had gone through some stuff, but she went from being a bit weak (IMO), insecure, and uncertain to Super Dom overnight. I just couldn't buy it.
I've read one other book by this author and it didn't click with me either. There are a lot of other people liked this book, so keep that in mind when considering my review. 2.5 stars
First, aside from the sex, the main part of the plot was the re-telling of personal histories. Nothing really happened in real time except sex or situations that lead to sexual situations. I needed some real life stuff. It also didn't make sense to me that they shared their deepest hurts so quickly. They both were people whose trust had been horribly broken so the sharing didn't ring true for me, especially considering there was very, very little D/s trust building IMO. (Although honestly the was very little BDSM play. Submission, yes, but very little BDSM play.)
Second, I have a hard time with what I feel like is the cookie cutter build up leading to MMF ménage. I takes away from the excitement when I know pretty much what will happen next.
Third, Marcus. Although I liked him as a character, but he felt out of place to me. It almost felt like inviting Dr. Phil into your bedroom to supervise.
Fourth, Lauren wasn't a convincing Dominatrix to me. I realize she had gone through some stuff, but she went from being a bit weak (IMO), insecure, and uncertain to Super Dom overnight. I just couldn't buy it.
I've read one other book by this author and it didn't click with me either. There are a lot of other people liked this book, so keep that in mind when considering my review. 2.5 stars
December 17, 2015
I'm embarrassed for the author.
Why do vanilla people imagine those who like to play are so weird? Here, it's believed that we use Shakespearean speech. Seriously, who talks like this? No one. Let me tell you. No one says, "Is he not beautiful?" Nor, "It symbolizes your willingness to be bound to me, obedient to me, for it is not my will that holds you, but yours." Nor, "Should you ever desire to cast away your bindings, then you need only break the chain..."
The florid dialogue, ornately purple prose, and the head hopping within paragraphs has me throwing in the towel on this mess at 15%.
Another failed femdom. At least it's a Lendle loan.
Why do vanilla people imagine those who like to play are so weird? Here, it's believed that we use Shakespearean speech. Seriously, who talks like this? No one. Let me tell you. No one says, "Is he not beautiful?" Nor, "It symbolizes your willingness to be bound to me, obedient to me, for it is not my will that holds you, but yours." Nor, "Should you ever desire to cast away your bindings, then you need only break the chain..."
The florid dialogue, ornately purple prose, and the head hopping within paragraphs has me throwing in the towel on this mess at 15%.
Another failed femdom. At least it's a Lendle loan.
July 15, 2012
This is a comprehensive review of the series as a whole.
Every character is unique, each one bringing his/her own experiences to the BDSM scene. And every story is deeply buried under layers of hurt and distrust. But these characters are mighty, their love limitless. Lots of dungeon time, winding dark sensuality with anguish and courage, making these stories live on long after they’re devoured.
Every character is unique, each one bringing his/her own experiences to the BDSM scene. And every story is deeply buried under layers of hurt and distrust. But these characters are mighty, their love limitless. Lots of dungeon time, winding dark sensuality with anguish and courage, making these stories live on long after they’re devoured.
January 21, 2014
I started this series with Rough Canvas and so since I'm a fan of Marcus it was nice to get more of him. I also really like Josh and Lauren and I'm just an overall fan of Joey's. I'll be shocked if I read something I don't like that she's written.
May 17, 2016
One of the best D/s I've read. Now I know why readers love the writings of Ms. Joey W. Hill it is amazing! Got me hooked reading the story of Lauren, Josh & Marcus, that I can't put it down and loss of sleep is so worthy because of this book! I think this is the beginning of my good book relationship with this author.
July 16, 2023
(First ever) Buddy read with Amelia!
Autocritique: This book was my rec cause It was sitting in my physical tbr and we were in the reading BDSM mood so this is on me!
Unfortunately this wasn't the best read for either of us and that's a telltale sign the book really had some writing issues despite it being written by the iconic J.Hill.
I can confidently say Ms. Hill's books aren't all that good for my short attention span and poor eyesight.. she is a wordy rambler with an amazing vocabulary and amazing literary devices. I know this is controversial in iteself cause this must be the third book of hers I rate lower than 4 stars but trust me when I say I enjoy her books but not their length and plot's frequent loss of track.
This particular book didn't do much for me because, other than the unnecessary off-track paragraphs, the story itself wasn't that compelling.. the chemistry felt fabricated and forced on the MC's because they were just THERE and, surprisingly ofc, into the same sexual gusto... so convenient wow...
They tried very little to be what they tried to be, sorry, a weekend won't make me trust nobody into my bed longterm. This would've made more sense if it were a casual fling with no strings attached but the author tried so hard to make us believe they'd make it despite both the MC's being deeply emotionally hurt by their past partners. That shit takes TIME to heal and no hot stranger can cure in 2 days!
Marcus being their fluffer came as an annoying surprise, I didn't want him there and I didn't expect him hanging around for as much as he did but yet... he was always there! *kind of my bad here cause I hadn't noticed the content warning for menage! Yes, I feel super dumb about it.
Autocritique: This book was my rec cause It was sitting in my physical tbr and we were in the reading BDSM mood so this is on me!
Unfortunately this wasn't the best read for either of us and that's a telltale sign the book really had some writing issues despite it being written by the iconic J.Hill.
I can confidently say Ms. Hill's books aren't all that good for my short attention span and poor eyesight.. she is a wordy rambler with an amazing vocabulary and amazing literary devices. I know this is controversial in iteself cause this must be the third book of hers I rate lower than 4 stars but trust me when I say I enjoy her books but not their length and plot's frequent loss of track.
This particular book didn't do much for me because, other than the unnecessary off-track paragraphs, the story itself wasn't that compelling.. the chemistry felt fabricated and forced on the MC's because they were just THERE and, surprisingly ofc, into the same sexual gusto... so convenient wow...
They tried very little to be what they tried to be, sorry, a weekend won't make me trust nobody into my bed longterm. This would've made more sense if it were a casual fling with no strings attached but the author tried so hard to make us believe they'd make it despite both the MC's being deeply emotionally hurt by their past partners. That shit takes TIME to heal and no hot stranger can cure in 2 days!
Marcus being their fluffer came as an annoying surprise, I didn't want him there and I didn't expect him hanging around for as much as he did but yet... he was always there! *kind of my bad here cause I hadn't noticed the content warning for menage! Yes, I feel super dumb about it.
July 9, 2010
This is books has a few firsts for me. This is my first foray into Femdom, my first book I've read by Joey W. Hill, and the first recommendation that I got from a friend that I really didn't think I was going to like.
Well, I was wrong on the last part. I absolutely LOVED this book. This book is highly sensual. It's not your average erotic novel where there's a new sex scene on every other page. This book truly delves into the mind set of a BDSM relationship. It was extremely engrossing and highly entertaining. I felt like I was going through the journey of self-healing and rediscovery with the characters.
And although Female dominant/male submissive is not my cup of tea, I didn't feel put off by the relationship between the characters. It was just so well written, that even those not into BDSM would enjoy it.
I can't wait to read my next book by Ms. Hill...I think she's my new "Mistress".
Well, I was wrong on the last part. I absolutely LOVED this book. This book is highly sensual. It's not your average erotic novel where there's a new sex scene on every other page. This book truly delves into the mind set of a BDSM relationship. It was extremely engrossing and highly entertaining. I felt like I was going through the journey of self-healing and rediscovery with the characters.
And although Female dominant/male submissive is not my cup of tea, I didn't feel put off by the relationship between the characters. It was just so well written, that even those not into BDSM would enjoy it.
I can't wait to read my next book by Ms. Hill...I think she's my new "Mistress".
December 15, 2012
3.5 stars. I read this book out of order in the series. After reading Rough Canvas, I absolutely loved Marcus. So I backtracked a book to this, where Marcus is first introduced. I didn't like this book near as much, however. This book is about Lauren taking a trip to an isolated island, meets up with submissive Josh ( whose best friend Marcus is also visiting). Literally the entire book encompasses two days. Crazy. Some spots got so boring with her thoughts of being a Dominant and "educating us" on the mechanics of D/s relationships, I found myself hugely scanning the pages. It lacked the chemistry and emotional tension of her other book so I was thoroughly bummed. I'm also not as "down with" the whole Dominatrix thing. It sounds sexist but it doesn't do it for me near as much as a male Dom. Anyways, not my favorite read.
August 3, 2016
This is my first book by this author and I enjoyed it very much. It was well written and EDITED much to my delight.
I enjoyed the characters and the scenery, although at times I felt the story got bogged down with an abundance of description.
I would have rated it higher, but on a personal level I dislike books where a character constantly refers to her ex, as did the heroine in this story. I realise it was a necessary part of the story, so again this is just a personal thing.
My personal reading issues aside, this was a wonderful well rounded story and I am going to jump right into the next book Natural Law.
A big thank you to Reanna for loaning this book to me :)
I enjoyed the characters and the scenery, although at times I felt the story got bogged down with an abundance of description.
I would have rated it higher, but on a personal level I dislike books where a character constantly refers to her ex, as did the heroine in this story. I realise it was a necessary part of the story, so again this is just a personal thing.
My personal reading issues aside, this was a wonderful well rounded story and I am going to jump right into the next book Natural Law.
A big thank you to Reanna for loaning this book to me :)
November 21, 2014
Too slow for me, too much anticipation, too psychological :/
I'll review it probably next week as I don't have a lot of time at the moment ;)
I'll review it probably next week as I don't have a lot of time at the moment ;)
Read
October 5, 2014No idea what I'm going to rate this one. I'll have to think on it a bit...
November 30, 2014
A book with Lauren, Josh, and Marcus? There wasn't even the slightest chance I wouldn't like it.
I started this series out of order by reading Rough Canvas (though, to be fair, I did that last year when I read Natural Law). Normally, even when the books are standalones, I read them in order, but I don't regret it here at all. It worked out just fine. Marcus and Thomas were amazing, and the appearance of Lauren and Josh, what little I saw of them, and what was said about their history made me want to read their book right away. Imagine my excitement when I saw their story is book one.
Being already half in love with Lauren and Josh when I started Holding the Cards wasn't the only effect of Rough Canvas. The other one was that I appreciated those details about Marcus and Thomas more, especially that beautiful scene when Marcus collared Thomas the first time. Yes, yes, I still have have a huge crush on that duo, but back to the main lovely couple: Lauren and Josh.
As much as I enjoyed the corporate setting and the businessmen of the Knights of the Board Room series, I think I enjoyed the island and its artist residents even more. It felt more relaxed. It was a place I wouldn't mind living in.
Another difference was the female Dominant. The majority of BDSM books I've read so far had male Doms, so this was a nice change, particularly because I loved Lauren as a Mistress. She was tough, but at the same time so kind and caring. But more than that, I liked her as a person.
Lauren came to the island to battle her own demons, repair the damage her ex left behind on her life, and her being. Finding Josh and Marcus on the island was the best thing that happened to her. To Josh, too, and it did good to Marcus as well.
By now it's as clear as day I have a special fondness for male subs. Josh was a wonderful reminder why that is so. Submissive and an artist?! I never stood a chance. To describe how much I liked his character, I wouldn't even know where to begin. Like Lauren, Josh was also hurt by his ex, even more than Lauren. The demons that haunted him were much harder to defeat, but Lauren was there determined to do it, and so was Marcus.
The whole story took place in only a few days, but I never felt like they were moving too fast, though everything said they were. The credit goes to the author, as always. She makes it all seem right, exactly the way it's supposed to be, with characters that seem so real you can't help but care for them, feel their pain, and root for them to get better. That's how I felt for Lauren and Josh. I wanted so much for Lauren to get her confidence back, and Josh to realize he wasn't a bad man. And, as always, through these characters the author showed the aspects of D/s relationships that I don't find anywhere else, which is another reason I love her work as much as I do.
Returning to this series was indeed a wise decision.
I started this series out of order by reading Rough Canvas (though, to be fair, I did that last year when I read Natural Law). Normally, even when the books are standalones, I read them in order, but I don't regret it here at all. It worked out just fine. Marcus and Thomas were amazing, and the appearance of Lauren and Josh, what little I saw of them, and what was said about their history made me want to read their book right away. Imagine my excitement when I saw their story is book one.
Being already half in love with Lauren and Josh when I started Holding the Cards wasn't the only effect of Rough Canvas. The other one was that I appreciated those details about Marcus and Thomas more, especially that beautiful scene when Marcus collared Thomas the first time. Yes, yes, I still have have a huge crush on that duo, but back to the main lovely couple: Lauren and Josh.
As much as I enjoyed the corporate setting and the businessmen of the Knights of the Board Room series, I think I enjoyed the island and its artist residents even more. It felt more relaxed. It was a place I wouldn't mind living in.
Another difference was the female Dominant. The majority of BDSM books I've read so far had male Doms, so this was a nice change, particularly because I loved Lauren as a Mistress. She was tough, but at the same time so kind and caring. But more than that, I liked her as a person.
Lauren came to the island to battle her own demons, repair the damage her ex left behind on her life, and her being. Finding Josh and Marcus on the island was the best thing that happened to her. To Josh, too, and it did good to Marcus as well.
By now it's as clear as day I have a special fondness for male subs. Josh was a wonderful reminder why that is so. Submissive and an artist?! I never stood a chance. To describe how much I liked his character, I wouldn't even know where to begin. Like Lauren, Josh was also hurt by his ex, even more than Lauren. The demons that haunted him were much harder to defeat, but Lauren was there determined to do it, and so was Marcus.
The whole story took place in only a few days, but I never felt like they were moving too fast, though everything said they were. The credit goes to the author, as always. She makes it all seem right, exactly the way it's supposed to be, with characters that seem so real you can't help but care for them, feel their pain, and root for them to get better. That's how I felt for Lauren and Josh. I wanted so much for Lauren to get her confidence back, and Josh to realize he wasn't a bad man. And, as always, through these characters the author showed the aspects of D/s relationships that I don't find anywhere else, which is another reason I love her work as much as I do.
Returning to this series was indeed a wise decision.
July 11, 2019
Josh and Lauren came to the same island to fight inner demons, both have been in D/s relationships where things were definitely lacking. By the time they realize those relationships weren't right they have already lost faith in the ability to make it work again. The question is whether or not they can help each other?
This all started with a card game suggested by Marcus... High card wins and can ask anything of the others as long as they are all willing to play the game. Stakes are high as well as emotions and I found myself falling in love with these characters. Provocative and fun they play as children played, "When games were fun and yet utterly serious, the fate of the universe hanging on our shoulders until Mother called us home to dinner."
Can't wait to start the rest of this series!
This all started with a card game suggested by Marcus... High card wins and can ask anything of the others as long as they are all willing to play the game. Stakes are high as well as emotions and I found myself falling in love with these characters. Provocative and fun they play as children played, "When games were fun and yet utterly serious, the fate of the universe hanging on our shoulders until Mother called us home to dinner."
Can't wait to start the rest of this series!
September 17, 2012
I can't wait to get started on the next book in the series. I've read several other erotica books but this is the first that not only excited me sexually but also stirred me emotionally. I really appreciate how the author was able to get more in-depth with the characters' emotional and psychological makeup and motivations. She did it so well that I couldn't help but empathize with them. The book wasn't filled with titillating sex scenes in every chapter but it wasn't a disappointment at all because the story was a drawn-out foreplay that she expertly built up in intensity until I reached the explosive and very satisfying climax. Can't wait for the next ride!
April 20, 2017
Beautifully written story! This really surprised me in this regard. This BDSM tale was richly woven with warmth, sincerity and love. At it's soul it was about finding healing in ones exceptance in their true nature and in finding it, a soul-searing love/friendship is bonded.
With such a small cast of characters and an equally small stage the poetic beauty of this love story unfolds exquisitely...Hill shows true artistry in her writing.
I'm an absolute sucker for the epic HEA in a really good telling of a love story
With such a small cast of characters and an equally small stage the poetic beauty of this love story unfolds exquisitely...Hill shows true artistry in her writing.
I'm an absolute sucker for the epic HEA in a really good telling of a love story
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