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Suncoast Society #3
Cardinal's Rule
Tilly Cardinal’s world imploded when her Master, Cris, disappeared with no explanation other than a short, cryptic note releasing her as his slave. Five years later, she’s Mistress Cardinal, a vicious, successful pro Domme charging big bucks to dish out whatever abuse men will pay to take. Materially, she wants for nothing. Privately, she’s never felt more alone.
In walks Landry LaCroux, a handsome, rich man with a proposition—he wants Tilly to train his slave. Landry holds the key to Tilly’s past, and her future. She’s shocked to discover Landry’s slave is her former Master, Cris.
Landry has a secret—he has cancer and wants to make Tilly a deal. Marry him and help him through his recovery, and he’ll pay her handsomely for it. Love wasn’t supposed to be part of the bargain, but can the three of them find healing and a lasting happiness under Cardinal’s Rule?
Note: This book was previously published with another publisher.
[Ménage and More: Erotic Consensual Heavy BDSM Ménage a Trois Romance, M/M/F with M/M elements, voyeurism, spanking, whipping, caning, sex toys, HEA]
In walks Landry LaCroux, a handsome, rich man with a proposition—he wants Tilly to train his slave. Landry holds the key to Tilly’s past, and her future. She’s shocked to discover Landry’s slave is her former Master, Cris.
Landry has a secret—he has cancer and wants to make Tilly a deal. Marry him and help him through his recovery, and he’ll pay her handsomely for it. Love wasn’t supposed to be part of the bargain, but can the three of them find healing and a lasting happiness under Cardinal’s Rule?
Note: This book was previously published with another publisher.
[Ménage and More: Erotic Consensual Heavy BDSM Ménage a Trois Romance, M/M/F with M/M elements, voyeurism, spanking, whipping, caning, sex toys, HEA]
292 pages, ebook
First published July 1, 2010
31 people are currently reading
1351 people want to read
About the author
Tymber Dalton
254 books1,935 followersAuthor Lesli Richardson, who is better-known by her more prolific wild-child Tymber Dalton pen name, lives in the Tampa Bay region of Florida with too many pets of various species. Other pen names of hers include PT Long, Calliope Clockwork, Ravyn Wolf, and Zoe Park. She writes in a wide variety of heat levels and genres, from mainstream sci-fi all the way to scorching ménage.
The USA Today Bestselling Author (as Tymber) and two-time EPIC award winner is a part-time Viking shield-maiden in training who loves to sing karaoke and play D&D with her friends. She’s also the author of over 250 books and counting, including The Reluctant Dom, Cross Country Chaos, Her Vampire Obsession, the Bleacke Shifters series, the Governor Trilogy series, and many others.
She lives in her own little world, but it’s okay—they all know her there.
She loves to hear from readers! Please feel free to drop by her website and sign up for her newsletter to keep abreast of the latest news, snarkage, and releases. Honest reviews are always welcomed. They help with a book’s visibility and can boost its placement on book retailer sites. Even a few lines about what you felt reading the book will help. Thank you so much, it’s greatly appreciated!
The USA Today Bestselling Author (as Tymber) and two-time EPIC award winner is a part-time Viking shield-maiden in training who loves to sing karaoke and play D&D with her friends. She’s also the author of over 250 books and counting, including The Reluctant Dom, Cross Country Chaos, Her Vampire Obsession, the Bleacke Shifters series, the Governor Trilogy series, and many others.
She lives in her own little world, but it’s okay—they all know her there.
She loves to hear from readers! Please feel free to drop by her website and sign up for her newsletter to keep abreast of the latest news, snarkage, and releases. Honest reviews are always welcomed. They help with a book’s visibility and can boost its placement on book retailer sites. Even a few lines about what you felt reading the book will help. Thank you so much, it’s greatly appreciated!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
November 20, 2015
As you read this review, please keep in mind that Cardinal’s Rule is a fairly highly rated book, so I hope you’ll take that into consideration while reading my thoughts - my opinions.
I’m not going to try to write an in-depth review... in fact, I debated not writing one at all. But, after seeing this story touted as a romance with a wonderful happily ever after, I just had to add my 2 cents to the mix.
I’ll start by saying that it was not a feel good read for me. I started out disliking one character, but quickly forgave him only to find myself disliking another character, which then turned into hate, and then toss in disdain for a third character and by the time the book was through, I had plenty of reasons to be disgusted by and with all three of the lead players, and was.
It’s an emotional roller coaster ride and often had me cringing, and damned angry, because I’m not ok with characters “mind-fucking” (their words, not mine) each other or getting their “pound of flesh” (a term I quickly got tired of hearing) and enjoying it as much as Tilly and Landry did. In the end, I was able to forgive Cris for his actions, but it was mostly out of pity for him. Some people would consider this a romance, and we’re definitely expected to believe in their happily ever after, but I didn’t buy it because they’re all so screwed up I’m not sure they know what true happiness is. Frankly, I can't buy into the idea that people who love one another could treat each other so, so badly. Again, this is just my opinion.
Cardinal’s Rule was not an easy read, and not for the faint of heart.
Contains extreme and explicit acts of sadism, masochism, and to a slightly lesser degree, ménage, BDSM and more “mind fucking” than I could have ever dreamed possible.
March 16, 2011
This book was painful for me. Ms. Dalton put me through the wringer. I liked each of the characters. I'm not going to give spoiler alerts, but basically, due to lack of communication, time lost between two lovers could have been avoided. This is definitely a bittersweet ending. I say this because it is drilled in how the life between the three people could have been different, happier and easier. Instead, due to the choices made without discussion, instead years are lost and people have gone through unnecessary pain. The collateral damage was so high that I couldn't cry because it heart so much.
The punishment applied to the person who made a unilateral decision without discussion is beyond what I could endure. I felt so badly for him because his intent and purposes were good, just the outcome was bad. He didn't think of other options. All of this could have been avoided. Although, when it comes down to it, sometimes pain and hard lessons are needed for people to truly appreciate what they have. This is one of this situations where I'd like to say, "let's not do this and say we we already did". The ending is a happily for now. It's left slightly hanging. With such stubborn characters, I can only hope that they don't go through any more mis-communications. This is one of my favourite stories from Ms. Dalton because it hurt so much to read it. The psychological punishment/damage is brutal and can very well break a person.
The punishment applied to the person who made a unilateral decision without discussion is beyond what I could endure. I felt so badly for him because his intent and purposes were good, just the outcome was bad. He didn't think of other options. All of this could have been avoided. Although, when it comes down to it, sometimes pain and hard lessons are needed for people to truly appreciate what they have. This is one of this situations where I'd like to say, "let's not do this and say we we already did". The ending is a happily for now. It's left slightly hanging. With such stubborn characters, I can only hope that they don't go through any more mis-communications. This is one of my favourite stories from Ms. Dalton because it hurt so much to read it. The psychological punishment/damage is brutal and can very well break a person.
June 26, 2022
5 Cardinal’s Rule Stars
I eye read this book last year, it was the first time I had read of a female Dom or Domme. I was highly interested, just in the dynamic she had with her clients Bob to be exact. But Tilly’s story stuck with me all this time. When I would read a BDSM book featuring a Female Dom she would pop into my head. Books that stick with you don’t come around very often that’s for sure. (Or they don’t for me)
I have all of Tymber’s work on audio, I didn't put two and two together that this was Tilly’s story because well I thought of Tilly’s Rule not Cardinal.. So I was looking thought my Audible and reading blurb something I hardly do and say Tilly so I had to listen ASAP.
I think I loved it even more in Audio! The narration I really enjoyed she did a great job in my opinion.
Chris was Tilly’s Dom… but Landry is Chris’s Dom.. Yeah this are about to get shaky.
It’s a great story of living through hard times and turning yourself around. Coming out stronger then when you started in so many ways.
I can’t say I am a huge Chris fan but I get why he did what he did (a little bit). I don’t like it and I still want Lan to, (be all I will hold him for you haha.. )
I had a feeling Landry had something up his sleeve the whole time even if he said he didn't. I think though I was mostly surprised at Landry and his feeling for Tilly. There connection kind of blew me away at how strong it got.
Then you have Tilly and here feelings or hard feelings I should say toward Chris, not that he didn't deserve it because he totally did. But that relationship was kind of interested to watch.
Over all I enjoyed this book whether it’s with my eyes or my ears. I hope others check it out because it was pretty awesome.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
I eye read this book last year, it was the first time I had read of a female Dom or Domme. I was highly interested, just in the dynamic she had with her clients Bob to be exact. But Tilly’s story stuck with me all this time. When I would read a BDSM book featuring a Female Dom she would pop into my head. Books that stick with you don’t come around very often that’s for sure. (Or they don’t for me)
I have all of Tymber’s work on audio, I didn't put two and two together that this was Tilly’s story because well I thought of Tilly’s Rule not Cardinal.. So I was looking thought my Audible and reading blurb something I hardly do and say Tilly so I had to listen ASAP.
I think I loved it even more in Audio! The narration I really enjoyed she did a great job in my opinion.
Chris was Tilly’s Dom… but Landry is Chris’s Dom.. Yeah this are about to get shaky.
It’s a great story of living through hard times and turning yourself around. Coming out stronger then when you started in so many ways.
I can’t say I am a huge Chris fan but I get why he did what he did (a little bit). I don’t like it and I still want Lan to, (be all I will hold him for you haha.. )
I had a feeling Landry had something up his sleeve the whole time even if he said he didn't. I think though I was mostly surprised at Landry and his feeling for Tilly. There connection kind of blew me away at how strong it got.
Then you have Tilly and here feelings or hard feelings I should say toward Chris, not that he didn't deserve it because he totally did. But that relationship was kind of interested to watch.
Over all I enjoyed this book whether it’s with my eyes or my ears. I hope others check it out because it was pretty awesome.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
October 19, 2012
I started to read this because I loved The Reluctant Dom. Unfortunately this book was not anything like it. The author wanted me to hate one character, as all the other characters in this book seemed to, but he was the only one I enjoyed. Every one else in this story needed to grow up and become adults.
I had trouble finishing it, and when I had I wish I hadn't bothered.
It was a dark read in many ways, but there wasn't anything that truly disturbed me, so that isn't the reason for the very low rating. I couldn't understand how these characters say they love each other, when they treat them so poorly. A dom is meant to love, guide and care for their sub, but that was not the case in this book, and it surprised me that someone who lives this lifestyle would write a book that shows nothing of the care and commitment couples in this lifestyle hqave for each other.
Really wish I hadn't wasted my time and money on this one. It wasn't for me at all.
I had trouble finishing it, and when I had I wish I hadn't bothered.
It was a dark read in many ways, but there wasn't anything that truly disturbed me, so that isn't the reason for the very low rating. I couldn't understand how these characters say they love each other, when they treat them so poorly. A dom is meant to love, guide and care for their sub, but that was not the case in this book, and it surprised me that someone who lives this lifestyle would write a book that shows nothing of the care and commitment couples in this lifestyle hqave for each other.
Really wish I hadn't wasted my time and money on this one. It wasn't for me at all.
April 24, 2013
The only likeable person was Chris. It seems that when there is a break up in a BDSM relationship it takes a stronger mental and emotional toll on the sub then on a vanilla person. At least it seemed like that with Tilly. Both Tilly and Landry were abusive to Chris and needed to grow up. Life can be a bitch but you don't go around humiliating a person or beat the crap out of them because they broke up with you.
July 6, 2010
I never ever thought I could read another TD book that would affect me as heavily as Reluctant Dom did. OMG. This book was absolutely beautifully written. Every page held me captive. But it was one long painful journey. I'm not sure I was left feeling completely settled, even at the end. It may take me a few days to fully digest this story.
Cris leaves Tilly suddenly. As you come to discover later on, his reasons were well intentioned but Tilly was devastated. She was catatonic in her desperate grief. She eventually pulled her life back together. Then in walks Landry with his "slave" Cris. This began a long healing process and also an unexpected love story in all different directions. I don't agree with A LOT of how Landry and she treated Cris. It was very difficult for me to digest. And I think that stayed with me all the way until the end. Things still felt very unsettled in a lot of ways.
But either way, it was an amazing story and wonderfully written. The fact that it had my stomach in knots for most of it, just proves how well the author did. It was a very disturbing, yet passionate story. I never planned on reading this book, as it has some dynamics in it that weren't really my thing. But I adore TD and wanted to give it a try. I don't want to miss out on one of her gems. I'm so glad I did. But just know..... its not an easy ride.
Cris leaves Tilly suddenly. As you come to discover later on, his reasons were well intentioned but Tilly was devastated. She was catatonic in her desperate grief. She eventually pulled her life back together. Then in walks Landry with his "slave" Cris. This began a long healing process and also an unexpected love story in all different directions. I don't agree with A LOT of how Landry and she treated Cris. It was very difficult for me to digest. And I think that stayed with me all the way until the end. Things still felt very unsettled in a lot of ways.
But either way, it was an amazing story and wonderfully written. The fact that it had my stomach in knots for most of it, just proves how well the author did. It was a very disturbing, yet passionate story. I never planned on reading this book, as it has some dynamics in it that weren't really my thing. But I adore TD and wanted to give it a try. I don't want to miss out on one of her gems. I'm so glad I did. But just know..... its not an easy ride.
October 2, 2010
This isn't an easy book to read. I spent as much time hating Chris as I did feeling sorry for him. And it's certainly not a book I'd recommend to someone who isn't used to reading about BDSM in romance books.
And make no mistakes, this is a romance book. It may not have the traditional boy meets girl slant, but at the heart and soul of this book is love and the struggle of three people to keep it alive and make it grow, whilst still being true to themselves.
Landry was a complex character, to be honest I started out thinking his motivation was strongly based on hurt feelings that Chris had had another relationship whilst they were broken up, but as you read on it becomes apparent the guilt he feels that the techniques he used on Chris were used to hurt another person. It helps to give him more layers as a character.
This is too complex a book to sum up in a short review, so I'll leave it by saying if you're comfortable pushing your reading boundaries then this book will take you on an unforgetable journey.
**hate the cover though - deserved much better**
And make no mistakes, this is a romance book. It may not have the traditional boy meets girl slant, but at the heart and soul of this book is love and the struggle of three people to keep it alive and make it grow, whilst still being true to themselves.
Landry was a complex character, to be honest I started out thinking his motivation was strongly based on hurt feelings that Chris had had another relationship whilst they were broken up, but as you read on it becomes apparent the guilt he feels that the techniques he used on Chris were used to hurt another person. It helps to give him more layers as a character.
This is too complex a book to sum up in a short review, so I'll leave it by saying if you're comfortable pushing your reading boundaries then this book will take you on an unforgetable journey.
**hate the cover though - deserved much better**
January 1, 2023
4.5 Stars ~ 'Cardinal's Rule' is Tymber Dalton's second book in her 'Suncoast Society' series. Having thoroughly enjoyed the previous book, especially the author's handling of BDSM and Master/slave elements, I was excited to venture further into her world. I was very intrigued by the blurb, and had a suspicion that I might like this installment even better than book one.
As I've come to expect from this author, the story is always far more complex than the description hints at. It isn't as easy as Tilly was Cris's slave, he left her, now he's back, but he's the slave to Landry's Master. It's so much more convoluted than that. The reasons behind Cris leaving, why he didn't sit Tilly down and explain, like a good Master should've, and who Landry is to Cris. These three people's lives intersect in a heartbreaking and devastating manner, which leads them to where they are now—Landry proposing, Tilly reeling in shock, and Cris caught by his love, and his shame.
“He still loves you. I’m not a moron. I know he loves me, but he’s still in love with you and always has been. He didn’t leave you because he didn’t love you enough. He honestly thought I would die. So did I, for a while. He knew you had people who loved you and would help you. I didn’t have anyone. He made a decision for both of us without asking what we wanted.”
It wasn't as difficult a decision for Tilly as she thought it would be. Even though she had allowed her license to lapse, she was still a trained nurse, and helping to care for Landry while he was going through cancer treatment is exactly what she needs. Being a pro-Domme for the past several years hasn't allowed her to fulfill her own needs, and frankly, being a Domme has gotten old. She started doing it for the money, and as a way to take control so no one could ever collar her again. Plus, the more time Tilly and Landry spend together, the more she really likes him. Landry is equally surprised by how much he likes Tilly, although he shouldn't be. Cris would never have fallen in love with a spineless twit.
Thus begins an unusual married life. Landry and Tilly are husband and wife, and Cris is Landry's slave, who sleeps in the guest room. But it's not that simple, or black and white. Tilly is still angry at Cris, but she can't deny the love Landry and Cris share, regardless that Tilly and Landry are falling in love. And Tilly can see for herself the utter devotion Cris has to Landry, as his Master, is so much more powerful than Tilly ever had for Cris. This is confusing because Tilly truly thought that she and Cris lived a 24/7, Master/slave relationship. But now she can see that, in reality, Cris was her safety top. As time goes by, with Landry starting treatment, Tilly and Cris begin to mend some of their bridges, since they are each other's support and comfort during this time. But it all brings back thoughts and feelings Tilly isn't sure how to deal with.
Such fascinating characters these three people are. Tilly is so strong, whether she's the submissive or the Domme. She has a gentle soul, and a huge capacity for love. Cris is devoted and loyal, and will never forgive himself for hurting Tilly, no matter how much he loves Landry. And, Landry is more complex. He's a Dom and a sadist, but he loves Cris so very much, and the moments of tenderness he shows are beautiful. Three different people, who manage to create an incredible relationship.
A tremendous addition to the series which I enjoyed even more than the previous book. Thank you, Tymber, for another enlightening and educational journey into an area of BDSM which I'm not very familiar with. You made it real, and still tugged on the heartstrings.
NOTE: This book was provided by Siren Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
As I've come to expect from this author, the story is always far more complex than the description hints at. It isn't as easy as Tilly was Cris's slave, he left her, now he's back, but he's the slave to Landry's Master. It's so much more convoluted than that. The reasons behind Cris leaving, why he didn't sit Tilly down and explain, like a good Master should've, and who Landry is to Cris. These three people's lives intersect in a heartbreaking and devastating manner, which leads them to where they are now—Landry proposing, Tilly reeling in shock, and Cris caught by his love, and his shame.
“He still loves you. I’m not a moron. I know he loves me, but he’s still in love with you and always has been. He didn’t leave you because he didn’t love you enough. He honestly thought I would die. So did I, for a while. He knew you had people who loved you and would help you. I didn’t have anyone. He made a decision for both of us without asking what we wanted.”
It wasn't as difficult a decision for Tilly as she thought it would be. Even though she had allowed her license to lapse, she was still a trained nurse, and helping to care for Landry while he was going through cancer treatment is exactly what she needs. Being a pro-Domme for the past several years hasn't allowed her to fulfill her own needs, and frankly, being a Domme has gotten old. She started doing it for the money, and as a way to take control so no one could ever collar her again. Plus, the more time Tilly and Landry spend together, the more she really likes him. Landry is equally surprised by how much he likes Tilly, although he shouldn't be. Cris would never have fallen in love with a spineless twit.
Thus begins an unusual married life. Landry and Tilly are husband and wife, and Cris is Landry's slave, who sleeps in the guest room. But it's not that simple, or black and white. Tilly is still angry at Cris, but she can't deny the love Landry and Cris share, regardless that Tilly and Landry are falling in love. And Tilly can see for herself the utter devotion Cris has to Landry, as his Master, is so much more powerful than Tilly ever had for Cris. This is confusing because Tilly truly thought that she and Cris lived a 24/7, Master/slave relationship. But now she can see that, in reality, Cris was her safety top. As time goes by, with Landry starting treatment, Tilly and Cris begin to mend some of their bridges, since they are each other's support and comfort during this time. But it all brings back thoughts and feelings Tilly isn't sure how to deal with.
Such fascinating characters these three people are. Tilly is so strong, whether she's the submissive or the Domme. She has a gentle soul, and a huge capacity for love. Cris is devoted and loyal, and will never forgive himself for hurting Tilly, no matter how much he loves Landry. And, Landry is more complex. He's a Dom and a sadist, but he loves Cris so very much, and the moments of tenderness he shows are beautiful. Three different people, who manage to create an incredible relationship.
A tremendous addition to the series which I enjoyed even more than the previous book. Thank you, Tymber, for another enlightening and educational journey into an area of BDSM which I'm not very familiar with. You made it real, and still tugged on the heartstrings.
NOTE: This book was provided by Siren Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
October 11, 2011
This is more of a 3.5 than a true 4, but I swing closer to the 4 on this one because it was written by Dalton. My score isn’t because Dalton did a poor job writing, but I simply didn’t like the characters, even though they were very well written… as Dalton writes some of the best and strongest character stories out there.
As in typical Dalton style… the author writes her books to ping-pong in your brain and hits a wide range of emotions. This book requires no less of an investment from the reader. There were a couple of very emotional parts of the book for me. Still, I would not say this is my favorite Dalton book; nothing has surpassed Safe Harbor to date for me.
What I really didn’t enjoy most in this book was actually the character of Landry… just could never warm up to the guy. I would start… but then he’d make some total asshat move. To me he was lying to Tilly and Cris up to the very end. For example, one moment he’s losing his shit and doesn’t want Tilly to leave and saying he’ll push Cris out, she only has to ask. However, his inner dialog he contradicts himself and truly shows he has zero intention of ever following up on that request… asshat! Then he even tells Cris he has not intentions of pushing him out. To me he never for a MOMENT thinks of how his relationship with Cris might cause trust issues for Tilly. Come on! To me that’s so very short-sighted and he doesn’t care for either of them, only wants what he wants.
Because Tilly was VERY MUCH NOT involved in the Cris and Landry’s relationship—to me he’s “dishonorable”. I don’t care how you color it… he was betraying Tilly. Sure, she was saying she didn’t care but he wasn’t making any efforts what so ever to pick up on ANY of the signs that there was an issue and what they really mean. Just another example of Landry only wants what Landry wants.
As for Cris… my heart goes out to him. Sure you start hating the guy, but in the end he’s really in the middle and he pays a really high price for his crimes. However, he was a total doormat in a relationship that was said to be one mostly of equals and partners between him and Landry. He had enough self worth once to stand-up for himself.
In the end this is a well written story… and I would suggest it to others.
As in typical Dalton style… the author writes her books to ping-pong in your brain and hits a wide range of emotions. This book requires no less of an investment from the reader. There were a couple of very emotional parts of the book for me. Still, I would not say this is my favorite Dalton book; nothing has surpassed Safe Harbor to date for me.
What I really didn’t enjoy most in this book was actually the character of Landry… just could never warm up to the guy. I would start… but then he’d make some total asshat move. To me he was lying to Tilly and Cris up to the very end. For example, one moment he’s losing his shit and doesn’t want Tilly to leave and saying he’ll push Cris out, she only has to ask. However, his inner dialog he contradicts himself and truly shows he has zero intention of ever following up on that request… asshat! Then he even tells Cris he has not intentions of pushing him out. To me he never for a MOMENT thinks of how his relationship with Cris might cause trust issues for Tilly. Come on! To me that’s so very short-sighted and he doesn’t care for either of them, only wants what he wants.
Because Tilly was VERY MUCH NOT involved in the Cris and Landry’s relationship—to me he’s “dishonorable”. I don’t care how you color it… he was betraying Tilly. Sure, she was saying she didn’t care but he wasn’t making any efforts what so ever to pick up on ANY of the signs that there was an issue and what they really mean. Just another example of Landry only wants what Landry wants.
As for Cris… my heart goes out to him. Sure you start hating the guy, but in the end he’s really in the middle and he pays a really high price for his crimes. However, he was a total doormat in a relationship that was said to be one mostly of equals and partners between him and Landry. He had enough self worth once to stand-up for himself.
In the end this is a well written story… and I would suggest it to others.
July 26, 2010
Good read. I agree with the five star reviews about why this book is great (the complexity of the relationships, beautifully written etc.), but I ended up not feeling totally satisfied because
I felt like Cris got a raw deal. He knew and loved both Tilly and Landry first and they end up together... ready to dump him if the other tells them! He comes first for no one. This made me sad.
I was unsettle by the the extreme way in which Cris was treated. And Landry had no good reason to be angry with Cris, he should have been grateful. This bugged me.
I felt like Cris got a raw deal. He knew and loved both Tilly and Landry first and they end up together... ready to dump him if the other tells them! He comes first for no one. This made me sad.
I was unsettle by the the extreme way in which Cris was treated. And Landry had no good reason to be angry with Cris, he should have been grateful. This bugged me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2011
I have been trying to expand my reading and try new things. I've read other Tymber Dalton books before and liked them. She does have a gift for writing and I would probably try her books again. Unfortunately Cardinal's Rule was too out there for me. I read about half and then had to stop. I just could not stomach anymore of it. I agree with the other reviews who stated the way Landry and Tilly treated Cris was just too cruel. It was actually very disturbing to me.
March 5, 2017
This book gutted me; the emotional pain within its pages was palpable. Highly recommended.
October 28, 2018
There are a few problems with this book, one of them is mechanical narrator that's butchering its intestines to the spine and back. The other are some believability issues. Not that this kind of literature is ever especially realistic, however, the premium representatives of the genre manage to convince a reader, at least for a moment, that it is so. This one doesn't even try. Like, the guy is on top of his fucking game all the while undergoing intensive chemotherapy. Or did I not get something right about chronology?
Otherwise, the story itself and the idea is sexy. It's just, the execution could be better.
Otherwise, the story itself and the idea is sexy. It's just, the execution could be better.
February 2, 2020
Like another reviewer I found the relationship between the three lead characters very disturbing it went beyond sadism to cruelty to Cris- he made a mistake and Tilly and Landry getting their (pound of flesh) was down right disturbing! I do NOT consider this a romance book with a HEA - in fact when I read other books of Ms. Dalton's and I see Tilly and Landry who got their (pound of flesh) mentioned I skip over their parts in the books I'm reading. This is a book I will NOT read again and wish that I had NEVER read to begin with.
Cris made a mistake in how he handled his relationship with Tilly but what Landry and Tilly put him through was downright cruel and he would have been better off walking out on BOTH Landry and Tilly.
My opinion if you love someone the way that Landry states he loves Cris you do NOT put them through what he did. Also the fact that he would have quickly dumped Cris if Tilly gave the word even though him and Tilly had just met showed exactly what he thought of Cris. VERY Disturbing and VERY warped relationship in the book
Again just my opinion
Cris made a mistake in how he handled his relationship with Tilly but what Landry and Tilly put him through was downright cruel and he would have been better off walking out on BOTH Landry and Tilly.
My opinion if you love someone the way that Landry states he loves Cris you do NOT put them through what he did. Also the fact that he would have quickly dumped Cris if Tilly gave the word even though him and Tilly had just met showed exactly what he thought of Cris. VERY Disturbing and VERY warped relationship in the book
Again just my opinion
July 17, 2010
WOW! A very emotional read, but also a difficult read at times. When I was about half way through this book and I had to continuely remind myself that Cris really did have a choice, he could leave if he wanted too. Landry was really a complex character and the glue in this story. On one hand, he is a sadist and from an outsiders point of view can be seen as a cold visious bastard, but then he has this completely other side that is so sweet and nurturing. A reader would never doubt for a second that he deeply loves Cris and Tilly. This book has it all, the complexities of a relationship a that has survived hurtful tragedies, but was able to heal itself, find forgiviness, and ultimately love again. Higly recommend if you enjoy complex BDSM romance stories with sometimes flawed characters struggling to make it all work.
January 13, 2012
Various parts of this book swung between 1 star and 5 stars for me in terms of a rating, therefore I’m settling in the middle.
I absolutely love how well written the book is. The author is very talented at drawing in the reader and making you feel all kinds of emotions through her writing. At times, I felt faint comparisons between this book and another book by this author (The Reluctant Dom), but thankfully it ended up being extremely different in other aspects (I kind of like my heart to remain intact vs. ripped out in shreds;).
What I didn’t like about this book is simple – the relationship between the characters and some of the treatment that took place. I was really turned off by some of the actions and not necessarily for the actions themselves, but because I didn’t believe the intent or emotions behind them.
A conflicting read for me, but still enjoyed it!!
I absolutely love how well written the book is. The author is very talented at drawing in the reader and making you feel all kinds of emotions through her writing. At times, I felt faint comparisons between this book and another book by this author (The Reluctant Dom), but thankfully it ended up being extremely different in other aspects (I kind of like my heart to remain intact vs. ripped out in shreds;).
What I didn’t like about this book is simple – the relationship between the characters and some of the treatment that took place. I was really turned off by some of the actions and not necessarily for the actions themselves, but because I didn’t believe the intent or emotions behind them.
A conflicting read for me, but still enjoyed it!!
July 7, 2010
Tymber Dalton does it again! This is a well written and highly emotional BDSM story. The story is good; it grips you from begining to end. The underlying morality of the characters as well the exposure of the fragility and strength of the human psyche is consistent with what I perceive to be one of Ms Dalton's charcterisation trademarks.
I highly recommend this book to those who are not averse to BDSM erotica.
I highly recommend this book to those who are not averse to BDSM erotica.
February 28, 2015
SPOILER ALERT:
Honestly this book is NOT romance but more like torture humiliation.
It doesn't even portrays the BDSM lifestyle, apparently being slave means that you give your master the permission to torture you and abuse you.
Halfway through the book i was ready to kill tilly and landry i mean seriously guys get over it, yeah yeah cris left Tilly so she was hurt and cris did pay for that but author ruined the whole book by not letting go of this issue and dragging it until the end
Honestly this book is NOT romance but more like torture humiliation.
It doesn't even portrays the BDSM lifestyle, apparently being slave means that you give your master the permission to torture you and abuse you.
Halfway through the book i was ready to kill tilly and landry i mean seriously guys get over it, yeah yeah cris left Tilly so she was hurt and cris did pay for that but author ruined the whole book by not letting go of this issue and dragging it until the end
December 12, 2014
This was a total mindfuck for me... I don't know if I would have read it if I knew before hand.
November 13, 2020
This book made me feel so many different emotions and not in a completely good way...
Chris confused me completely not his motives but his feelings, The MMF part was off for me in that I felt like there was an M/M relationship and an M/F relationship but not necessarily all three together until soooo late in the book, but I can respect the she didn't instantly forgive him!
Landry my he confused me, he loves Chris but he'll send him away for Tilly! I don’t know how I feel about that. I was just confused all around!
Tilly! Tilly! Tilly..... what to say here, SO BROKEN!!
Usually by 70% of a book I have a firm grasp on what I feel about the main character, I can honestly say this was not the case ATALL! I'm not a big fan of heavy BDSM books but I like Tymber enough to read what she writes but, I gotta say this book had me in knots! I don't think I felt what she wanted me to feel when reading this book, the characters left me all confused, even their non sexual relationship dynamics!! I don't know! And damn if there are truly sadist that would react like this wow. All in all I truly believe it had to be love that kept Cristo with these two people because he certainly wasn't a masochist but damn nothing else could explain it!
This makes me wish I was an anthropologist studying the BDSM lifestyle and not from a participant's perspective that's for damn sure I can Understand dominance, even respect submission, light bondage I suppose, sadomasochism and all the rest I will never disparage what I don't understand but hot damn.... BUT I DIGRESS
Chris confused me completely not his motives but his feelings, The MMF part was off for me in that I felt like there was an M/M relationship and an M/F relationship but not necessarily all three together until soooo late in the book, but I can respect the she didn't instantly forgive him!
Landry my he confused me, he loves Chris but he'll send him away for Tilly! I don’t know how I feel about that. I was just confused all around!
Tilly! Tilly! Tilly..... what to say here, SO BROKEN!!
Usually by 70% of a book I have a firm grasp on what I feel about the main character, I can honestly say this was not the case ATALL! I'm not a big fan of heavy BDSM books but I like Tymber enough to read what she writes but, I gotta say this book had me in knots! I don't think I felt what she wanted me to feel when reading this book, the characters left me all confused, even their non sexual relationship dynamics!! I don't know! And damn if there are truly sadist that would react like this wow. All in all I truly believe it had to be love that kept Cristo with these two people because he certainly wasn't a masochist but damn nothing else could explain it!
This makes me wish I was an anthropologist studying the BDSM lifestyle and not from a participant's perspective that's for damn sure I can Understand dominance, even respect submission, light bondage I suppose, sadomasochism and all the rest I will never disparage what I don't understand but hot damn.... BUT I DIGRESS
May 27, 2011
I loved this book.
And I was ready to hate it from the start.
But it was very emotional and real. Like, real life real!
Tilly was my kind of heroine-strong but down to earth,lovable and in need of love,but also very human,very jealous and mostly very special in the world of BDSM,poli relationships and erotica. She was the prime reason I loved this book.
I am not giving it 5 stars because:the Lan/Tilly love just blew up in my face-It could have been built up better for one. Secondly, the whole 'Who does Cris love' was a very moot point any I could not stop myself from feeling that if there was no Lan Cris would be more normal...because he really loved Tilly while his 'love' for Lan seem forced, more like hero worship and pretty burned out which was contradictory to the hot sex, was it not? Also he Cris never gave me a real gay/bi vibe. And third and final - Why was only Tilly jealous? Why not Lan? Or Cris? Or even Bob? It was as natural for them to be.
All in all a good book even if it had a few shortcoming and a fact I really hated (her being sterile! Wtf? Strange,drastic, angsty and kind of wrong. I feel like Lan would be a great father.)
And I was ready to hate it from the start.
But it was very emotional and real. Like, real life real!
Tilly was my kind of heroine-strong but down to earth,lovable and in need of love,but also very human,very jealous and mostly very special in the world of BDSM,poli relationships and erotica. She was the prime reason I loved this book.
I am not giving it 5 stars because:the Lan/Tilly love just blew up in my face-It could have been built up better for one. Secondly, the whole 'Who does Cris love' was a very moot point any I could not stop myself from feeling that if there was no Lan Cris would be more normal...because he really loved Tilly while his 'love' for Lan seem forced, more like hero worship and pretty burned out which was contradictory to the hot sex, was it not? Also he Cris never gave me a real gay/bi vibe. And third and final - Why was only Tilly jealous? Why not Lan? Or Cris? Or even Bob? It was as natural for them to be.
All in all a good book even if it had a few shortcoming and a fact I really hated (her being sterile! Wtf? Strange,drastic, angsty and kind of wrong. I feel like Lan would be a great father.)
February 22, 2013
I fell in love with Dalton's writing with "The Reluctant Dom" and I was really hoping that this book would hit home just the same. Unfortunately I was pretty disappointed. Tilly was once a slave to her master, Cris. And then he up and left. She is hospitalized and on the brink of suicide, so she finally decides that no one is ever going to make her feel that way again. She becomes a Domme and cuts off emotional connections to others. Until Cris's master meets her. Within a week she's helplessly in love. What?? The tension, confusion and anger between Tilly and Cris is understandable. But the sudden trust, acceptance and INSTANT love between Tilly and Landry? I think not. I rated the book based on the fact that Tymber Dalton is a fabulous BDSM/romance novelist, the plot worked and kept things interesting, sex was good... but BDSM played a heavy role in terms of humiliation, sadism, and full time slavery. Tilly was a poorly developed character, and I feel the by the end there was still more left to be desired. Regardless, I'm not giving up on Dalton yet.
October 11, 2011
I loved this book, though I hated parts of it.
This book takes the reader through an emotional ringer, it's well written, with complex characters and situations, as well as multiple POVs. I am not a big fan of humiliation and degradation, but I was glad I stuck with the book through those difficult parts, because in the larger realm of the story told, they were integral to the character growth that made this book so rewarding. Not for the faint of heart, but I actually shed tears over this book and the bit of discomfort I felt during some of the happenings was offset by the book as a whole, which was a winner, for me.
This book takes the reader through an emotional ringer, it's well written, with complex characters and situations, as well as multiple POVs. I am not a big fan of humiliation and degradation, but I was glad I stuck with the book through those difficult parts, because in the larger realm of the story told, they were integral to the character growth that made this book so rewarding. Not for the faint of heart, but I actually shed tears over this book and the bit of discomfort I felt during some of the happenings was offset by the book as a whole, which was a winner, for me.
October 13, 2017
3.5 stars,I had to remind myself this is fiction, all this D/ slave thing and the idea of it was depressing, but being a liberal,i believe pple shd love who they love and how they love, more so in fantasies..
Chris was Tillys D but decided to abruptly leave her to care for a very sick Landry leaving her devastated. Forward yrs later, Landry finds out what Chris did , being a sadist he decides to humiliate Chris by marrying Tilly, the marriage will also be for practical reasons since their gay union was not acknowledged in their state. But it seems Landry has a plan of reconciliation .......................... lovely story, believeable , well written
Chris was Tillys D but decided to abruptly leave her to care for a very sick Landry leaving her devastated. Forward yrs later, Landry finds out what Chris did , being a sadist he decides to humiliate Chris by marrying Tilly, the marriage will also be for practical reasons since their gay union was not acknowledged in their state. But it seems Landry has a plan of reconciliation .......................... lovely story, believeable , well written
November 27, 2013
I want to start out by saying I am a huge fan of Tymber Dalton.. With that said this book DID NOT do it for me.. I thought Landry was seriously ungrateful to say the least.. I HATED how he had been with Cris for soo many years and all of the sudden he was more than willing to just throw him away.. Especially after everything Chris had done for him.. In summary, definitely NOT my favorite book or one I would read again.. This is one book I wish I HADN'T bought..
September 29, 2013
2 stars purely from generosity of my heart. Or maybe I ate something :D
Unlovable characters, silly plot with huge holes, extremely unfunny dialogue - castration jokes get old after the first time, I tells ya - and omg, the drama. Everyone is either an asshole or a drama queen. Or both. Silly book, but well, I couldn't reach a TV remote, ok? Not that I watch TV, or even own one :(
Unlovable characters, silly plot with huge holes, extremely unfunny dialogue - castration jokes get old after the first time, I tells ya - and omg, the drama. Everyone is either an asshole or a drama queen. Or both. Silly book, but well, I couldn't reach a TV remote, ok? Not that I watch TV, or even own one :(
July 16, 2010
This book was alright. I didn't really buy Landys' reasoning for being hurt and I thought that the extreme way he treated Cris was kind of silly since I just couldn't buy into that reasoning. I don't know if this book is re-read material for me but I didn't hate it or anything.
February 12, 2017
What kind of sick asshole Dom abandons his collared sub? Just leaves without a note, forwarding address, or a simple goodbye. And that's just the beginning . FTS. I hated everything about this story. The characters can all DIAF.
May 30, 2014
Loved this story. Very emotional. I sure cried my share. Tymber Dalton is an author that can write so much emotion into a book that makes the reader feel like they themselves are going through it. Landry, Tilly and Cris go through so much, I was sitting on the edge of my seat until the very end.
July 23, 2015
I gave this story 4 stars because although I did like the story I felt that the punishment of Cris was too much everyone wanted to kill him for breaking Tilly's heart. Landry was a true sadist who got what he wanted a poly it was a good story and I did enjoy it.
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