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Dungeon #1
Above the Dungeon (Dungeon series) [7/2/2017] SM Johnson
With the ink barely dry on his Ivy League diploma, Dare is expected join the family business, marry his high school sweetheart, and commit his life to conservative suburbia. But in a moment of panic he runs away to NYC where his cousin gets him a bartending job at a club called Above the Dungeon. The basement of the club houses legendary BDSM Master Roman's dungeon. And Roman's interest in the newest bartender challenges Dare's lifelong perception of his own sexuality. As he draws Dare into the world of BDSM, Roman has to contend with the feelings and insecurities of Jeff, the 24/7 slave he has at home. Alternately told from points of view of Dare and Jeff, Above the Dungeon is a series of highly erotic BDSM scenes tied together with tight plot and intense relationship dynamics. 70,000 words, erotic fiction (M/M, BDSM)
Paperback
First published April 14, 2010
78 people are currently reading
763 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Johnson
18 books72 followersSM Johnson hibernates in a conservative community of northern Wisconsin, where she writes characters who aren't exactly mainstream. Her stories are erotic, romantic and often somewhat unexpected. Visit her on blogspot to feed your hunger for darkly erotic fiction, messy lives, and things that go "naughty" in the night. http://www.smjbookteasers.blogspot.com
Most recent release: Aftermath, February 2017. Next release: Nervous, October 1, 2017. Find my books at Amazon, Smashwords, and other ebook retailers.
Thanks for being readers!
Find me on Facebook! SM Johnson writes
https://www.facebook.com/SMJohnsonWrites
PS - Goodreads insists on periods between the S and the M of SM Johnson. But, for the record, the periods are incorrect. And because of this, also for the record, some of my books DO NOT SHOW UP as my books, but as other S.M. Johnson's books.
Most recent release: Aftermath, February 2017. Next release: Nervous, October 1, 2017. Find my books at Amazon, Smashwords, and other ebook retailers.
Thanks for being readers!
Find me on Facebook! SM Johnson writes
https://www.facebook.com/SMJohnsonWrites
PS - Goodreads insists on periods between the S and the M of SM Johnson. But, for the record, the periods are incorrect. And because of this, also for the record, some of my books DO NOT SHOW UP as my books, but as other S.M. Johnson's books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
January 30, 2014
This was pretty much the look I had on my face the entire time I read this.
Luckily, it's pretty short otherwise I'd have to look into botox.
I will say this book definitely made me feel something just not in a good way. I’ve said before that I like BDSM books to make me a bit uncomfortable and Above the Dungeon certainly accomplished that.
I’ll start with dislikes and end on likes.
Jeff is… he’s a whiny, pouty, catty little bitch is what he is. He reminds me of one of those kids. You know the ones where the conversation goes a little something like this:
Kid: I WANT AN APPLE!!!
Parent: Ok, honey, here’s an apple.
Kid: I ONLY LIKE RED APPLES!!!
Parent: Alright, here’s a red apple.
Kid: I ONLY WANT A GALA APPLE!
Parent: Okkkaaayyy here’s a gala for you.
Kid: WHY ISN’T IT CUT UP? I ONLY LIKE THEM WHEN THEY’RE CUT UP!!!
Parent: All cut up for you. Here ya go!
Kid: I DON’T WANT IT ANYMORE! I WANT A PONY!
Parent: What the… ooookkkkkkaaayyyy then...
That’s Jeff. Except Jeff is 36.
Jeff wants to have his cake and eat it too. Jeff and Roman have been in a contracted M/s relationship for 12 years. Jeff apparently likes to fall in love. A lot. So much so that it’s been written into their contract that they are allowed-I’m paraphrasing here-to revenge fuck other people. BUT, they’re not allowed to leave each other over it because they love each other sooooooo much.
Not love. Codependency.
So, Jeff’s decided that he wants to fall in love again. He’s gonna pop on down to the love store and pick out a new toy er… I mean doll er… I mean man. He even goes so far as to tell Roman that he’s “ready to fall in love again.” As if all of that’s not troubling enough, the kicker is Jeff gets butt hurt if Roman starts looking outside their relationship-being petty, catty and snarky.
Enter Tristan.
On a whim one night at Above the Dungeon, the club which Roman owns, he points out Dare and Tristan as possible lovers. Purely by accident Tristan and Jeff meet, are attracted to one another and Jeff “arranges” for him to meet Roman. Then get his panties in a twist that Roman might actually like Tristan. *gasp* Seriously? Jesus, man. Fickle much?
Hey, Jeff!
Exit Tristan. Enter Dare.
In all honesty, I think pointing Tristan out initially was a ruse and all along Roman was gunning for Dare.
Dare is a confused 27 year old from an upper class family that didn’t want to end up 45 wondering what the fuck have a done with my life, so he moves to NYC on a whim. He moves in with his cousin who works at Above the Dungeon and finagles him a bartending job. Dare doesn’t realize it’s a gay bar until his first night working. Surprise!
Dare is one of those people, y'know the ones that are highly suggestible. He doesn’t have a clue what he wants, all he knows is he wants something different and here’s where all sorts of red flags started going up for me.
Roman is a professional dominant. He’s an expert at reading people and accustomed to getting exactly what he wants, when he wants it and how he wants it. Always. In my eyes, he manipulates Dare into submission. He skirts around negotiating, talking about limits or even discussing what Dare wants by saying Dare’s scared of everything and they would spend all their time negotiating. He says he's experienced and to trust him, he knows what he’s doing. Like I said, Dare is easily manipulated, I get the impression he doesn’t like confrontation and Roman pretty much railroads him into all sorts of things from getting his nipples pierced to public scening within the span of maybe 2-3 weeks. The whole situation struck me over and over again as straddling the fence of amorality.
Does he harm Dare?
No. But he makes a whole helluva a lot of decisions for him.
True. Dare has the option of saying ‘no’ and he enjoys their activities for the most part. Still, I can’t shake the feeling that Roman imposed his will on a weaker willed individual. Nor can I chalk it up to the old adage ‘alls well that ends well’. What’s more it looks as though Roman’s looking for Dare to become his slave along with Jeff and that’s an even high level of Dare’s choices and decisions left in Roman’s hands…
I do like Dare and I actually think he has a good head on his shoulders, I just think he needs to find his voice and maybe grow a set.
The writing’s fairly pedestrian. The plot drags in spots and I found it repetitious reading the same event from both Dare and Jeff's perspectives. Otherwise there were no egregious grammatical errors; dialogue's a bit dry.
Pretty much all the scening was erotic. There are some intimate moments, usually between Dare and Roman that I enjoyed; the Eskimo kisses scene stands out. I enjoyed how the subspace was described, what it felt like, how it happened and the inner musings of both Jeff and Dare when in a scene-the fear, trepidation mixed with excitement and anticipation. All of that was illustrated well and it's a far cry from BDSM 101 which is refreshing. If this had been set in a fantasy or alt-world and/or classified as dub-con, I probably would've enjoyed it more. Since it's not and meant to be contemporary I have issues with someone taking away another's choices even if it is "for their own good".
I probably will read the next one if for no other reason than to see where this train wreck is headed. Not right away but sometime. At the end of the day, I can’t give Above the Dungeon more than 2.5 stars. Not today at least.
Luckily, it's pretty short otherwise I'd have to look into botox.
I will say this book definitely made me feel something just not in a good way. I’ve said before that I like BDSM books to make me a bit uncomfortable and Above the Dungeon certainly accomplished that.
I’ll start with dislikes and end on likes.
Jeff is… he’s a whiny, pouty, catty little bitch is what he is. He reminds me of one of those kids. You know the ones where the conversation goes a little something like this:
Kid: I WANT AN APPLE!!!
Parent: Ok, honey, here’s an apple.
Kid: I ONLY LIKE RED APPLES!!!
Parent: Alright, here’s a red apple.
Kid: I ONLY WANT A GALA APPLE!
Parent: Okkkaaayyy here’s a gala for you.
Kid: WHY ISN’T IT CUT UP? I ONLY LIKE THEM WHEN THEY’RE CUT UP!!!
Parent: All cut up for you. Here ya go!
Kid: I DON’T WANT IT ANYMORE! I WANT A PONY!
Parent: What the… ooookkkkkkaaayyyy then...
That’s Jeff. Except Jeff is 36.
Jeff wants to have his cake and eat it too. Jeff and Roman have been in a contracted M/s relationship for 12 years. Jeff apparently likes to fall in love. A lot. So much so that it’s been written into their contract that they are allowed-I’m paraphrasing here-to revenge fuck other people. BUT, they’re not allowed to leave each other over it because they love each other sooooooo much.
Not love. Codependency.
So, Jeff’s decided that he wants to fall in love again. He’s gonna pop on down to the love store and pick out a new toy er… I mean doll er… I mean man. He even goes so far as to tell Roman that he’s “ready to fall in love again.” As if all of that’s not troubling enough, the kicker is Jeff gets butt hurt if Roman starts looking outside their relationship-being petty, catty and snarky.
Enter Tristan.
On a whim one night at Above the Dungeon, the club which Roman owns, he points out Dare and Tristan as possible lovers. Purely by accident Tristan and Jeff meet, are attracted to one another and Jeff “arranges” for him to meet Roman. Then get his panties in a twist that Roman might actually like Tristan. *gasp* Seriously? Jesus, man. Fickle much?
Hey, Jeff!
Exit Tristan. Enter Dare.
In all honesty, I think pointing Tristan out initially was a ruse and all along Roman was gunning for Dare.
Dare is a confused 27 year old from an upper class family that didn’t want to end up 45 wondering what the fuck have a done with my life, so he moves to NYC on a whim. He moves in with his cousin who works at Above the Dungeon and finagles him a bartending job. Dare doesn’t realize it’s a gay bar until his first night working. Surprise!
Dare is one of those people, y'know the ones that are highly suggestible. He doesn’t have a clue what he wants, all he knows is he wants something different and here’s where all sorts of red flags started going up for me.
Roman is a professional dominant. He’s an expert at reading people and accustomed to getting exactly what he wants, when he wants it and how he wants it. Always. In my eyes, he manipulates Dare into submission. He skirts around negotiating, talking about limits or even discussing what Dare wants by saying Dare’s scared of everything and they would spend all their time negotiating. He says he's experienced and to trust him, he knows what he’s doing. Like I said, Dare is easily manipulated, I get the impression he doesn’t like confrontation and Roman pretty much railroads him into all sorts of things from getting his nipples pierced to public scening within the span of maybe 2-3 weeks. The whole situation struck me over and over again as straddling the fence of amorality.
Does he harm Dare?
No. But he makes a whole helluva a lot of decisions for him.
True. Dare has the option of saying ‘no’ and he enjoys their activities for the most part. Still, I can’t shake the feeling that Roman imposed his will on a weaker willed individual. Nor can I chalk it up to the old adage ‘alls well that ends well’. What’s more it looks as though Roman’s looking for Dare to become his slave along with Jeff and that’s an even high level of Dare’s choices and decisions left in Roman’s hands…
That was always the question… if he allowed this, today, then what would he allow tomorrow? And how long would it be until he was lost completely?
Last night Roman had suggested that Dare must like all this more than not, and either Roman was dead on, or he was some kind of twisted Pied Piper, leading Dare down an unfamiliar path. Whether the path led to destruction or redemption remained to be seen.
I do like Dare and I actually think he has a good head on his shoulders, I just think he needs to find his voice and maybe grow a set.
The writing’s fairly pedestrian. The plot drags in spots and I found it repetitious reading the same event from both Dare and Jeff's perspectives. Otherwise there were no egregious grammatical errors; dialogue's a bit dry.
Pretty much all the scening was erotic. There are some intimate moments, usually between Dare and Roman that I enjoyed; the Eskimo kisses scene stands out. I enjoyed how the subspace was described, what it felt like, how it happened and the inner musings of both Jeff and Dare when in a scene-the fear, trepidation mixed with excitement and anticipation. All of that was illustrated well and it's a far cry from BDSM 101 which is refreshing. If this had been set in a fantasy or alt-world and/or classified as dub-con, I probably would've enjoyed it more. Since it's not and meant to be contemporary I have issues with someone taking away another's choices even if it is "for their own good".
I probably will read the next one if for no other reason than to see where this train wreck is headed. Not right away but sometime. At the end of the day, I can’t give Above the Dungeon more than 2.5 stars. Not today at least.
July 9, 2023
Aidan (Dare) huyo de su pueblo al finalizar la universidad porque se veia atrapado en una vida que le habian impuesto sus padres. Asi que ahora en New York, viviendo con su primo, abrira los ojos a un mundo totalmente nuevo y diferente. Pero trabajar en un bar gay no es lo mas diferente que va a ver, sobre todo porque el dueño del bar y del "calabozo" de abajo se fijo en el y quiere "entrenarlo". Ahora no solo descubrira un nuevo lado de la vida, sino tambien un lado de el que nunca penso que tenia, y mas que todo, la sumision a un Dom tan fuerte como Roman.
Pero no solo Dare se vera enfrentado a cambios en su vida y en su forma de ser, Jeff (el esclavo de Roman) tambien enfrentara el cambio de actitud de su Dom y su deseo de introducir un nuevo esclavo en su relacion. Sera capaz de aceptar a ese novato del que esta encaprichado su Dom?
Es una lectura intersante, los personajes son bastante estereotipados, y rigidos. No hay forma de realmente conectar con ninguno de ellos, si con los protas ni con los secundarios. Ademas, tenemos el juego de que cada capitulo es el punto de vista de uno de los sub, asi que a veces el autor repite la misma escena pero vista por el otro prota. Y si a eso le agregamos que, realmente, no conocemos lo que piensa, quiere o espera Roman (Dom), la historia se hace todavia mas dificil de seguir.
En fin, hasta ahora esta interesante, esperaba que fuera un libro por pareja, pero son 4 libros con la evolucion de este trio (si es que realmente llegan a eso), asi que seguire leyendo para ver como se desarrolla el resto de la trama.
Pero no solo Dare se vera enfrentado a cambios en su vida y en su forma de ser, Jeff (el esclavo de Roman) tambien enfrentara el cambio de actitud de su Dom y su deseo de introducir un nuevo esclavo en su relacion. Sera capaz de aceptar a ese novato del que esta encaprichado su Dom?
Es una lectura intersante, los personajes son bastante estereotipados, y rigidos. No hay forma de realmente conectar con ninguno de ellos, si con los protas ni con los secundarios. Ademas, tenemos el juego de que cada capitulo es el punto de vista de uno de los sub, asi que a veces el autor repite la misma escena pero vista por el otro prota. Y si a eso le agregamos que, realmente, no conocemos lo que piensa, quiere o espera Roman (Dom), la historia se hace todavia mas dificil de seguir.
En fin, hasta ahora esta interesante, esperaba que fuera un libro por pareja, pero son 4 libros con la evolucion de este trio (si es que realmente llegan a eso), asi que seguire leyendo para ver como se desarrolla el resto de la trama.
August 8, 2013
I decided to DNF this story. Up to where I was (~30%) it was around 2.5*
ETA: took this one up again and finished. It's now a 1.5*. Same reasons as stated below apply, plus I'm now perforce grading it against Safeword and L+L, having read these in between.
Reasons:
I couldn't really identify with any of the characters, nor much sympathise with them, except that I felt sorry for Dare. The set-up is the usual one: bad-ass, alpha-holey Master/Dom with a dungeon and a harem getting it off with a virgin boy. In this case not only gay for you, but also kinky for you. I ended up just not interested in learning more about these people, and on top of it I was getting exasperated.
If you set something that smack within the real world and real BDSM, then sorry, I expect a Dominant overreaching themselves to be made accountable. Immediately. I winced every time Roman forced himself on Dare, without anyone noticing that this wasn't okay. To me such behaviour and its glorification is at the core of rape culture.
I'd probably have gobbled up a story where someone had taken Roman to task and possibly even sued over his consistent sexual bullying and harrassment (ETA: this story has been written now twice: Safeword and Leather+Lace, and both were solid 5* works!). I kept waiting for Maddox to step in and sock Roman a good one. Or Jeff at least having a go at him to defend Dare who quite clearly was unable to rid himself of Roman, and who was quite out of his depths.
I had enough of this assault-style behaviour when Roman foists body mods on a guy who barely weeks before that didn't even really know what BDSM is about. Actually, this is clearly not what BDSM is about, not what is a responsible Dom and not something turning me on in such a context. The subtext streaming from Dare made it all even creepier.
Absolutely not my thing. I own the sequels, but I won't be reading them, these stories appear to be a bit too squicky and exasperating for me.
ETA: took this one up again and finished. It's now a 1.5*. Same reasons as stated below apply, plus I'm now perforce grading it against Safeword and L+L, having read these in between.
Reasons:
I couldn't really identify with any of the characters, nor much sympathise with them, except that I felt sorry for Dare. The set-up is the usual one: bad-ass, alpha-holey Master/Dom with a dungeon and a harem getting it off with a virgin boy. In this case not only gay for you, but also kinky for you. I ended up just not interested in learning more about these people, and on top of it I was getting exasperated.
If you set something that smack within the real world and real BDSM, then sorry, I expect a Dominant overreaching themselves to be made accountable. Immediately. I winced every time Roman forced himself on Dare, without anyone noticing that this wasn't okay. To me such behaviour and its glorification is at the core of rape culture.
I'd probably have gobbled up a story where someone had taken Roman to task and possibly even sued over his consistent sexual bullying and harrassment (ETA: this story has been written now twice: Safeword and Leather+Lace, and both were solid 5* works!). I kept waiting for Maddox to step in and sock Roman a good one. Or Jeff at least having a go at him to defend Dare who quite clearly was unable to rid himself of Roman, and who was quite out of his depths.
I had enough of this assault-style behaviour when Roman foists body mods on a guy who barely weeks before that didn't even really know what BDSM is about. Actually, this is clearly not what BDSM is about, not what is a responsible Dom and not something turning me on in such a context. The subtext streaming from Dare made it all even creepier.
Absolutely not my thing. I own the sequels, but I won't be reading them, these stories appear to be a bit too squicky and exasperating for me.
September 7, 2015
Fantastic! I read a lot, and I have read a lot of BDSM books but rarely did I read a book like this one.
This is the story of young and naive sub (Dare) completely ignorant of the Domination/submission world and caught under a pushy Dom’s spell (Roman). Dare discovered with a certain dose of thrill this unusual world and its pleasures.
At the beginning, I was disappointed that the story went from Dare to Jeff and all the way around again and again, because I loved Dare's innocence. But the other characters are great too and the story of Dare and Jeff intertwined at the end. The author was able to describe the characters’ feelings so very well that I was transported back in time to my youth when my friends and I stood at the top of the cliff; daring each other to leap toward the water 30 feet below. That swooping anxiety and internal dialogue of 'will I or won't I?' This ability of Johnson's allowed the reader to intimately experience the overwhelming early explorations Dare made into the world of Domination/submission.
It didn't hurt that Roman was the 'ideal' Dom either. Jeff's character nicely rounded out the story and being able to experience the story from each character's point of view just sucked me right in. Although there is a ménage relationship within the story, it was written in a way that you got to experience the complications this type of arrangement can engender in an established relationship. This is not your typical BDSM book; nor is it typical erotic romance. It is a study in kink, relationships, submission and human frailties.
Some readers may think that Roman was unfaithful, since he already had a sub (Jeff) and he hid his BDSM plays with Dare; but I can pretty well understand Roman’s point of view. He is also caught in the game of the new sub’s discovery. This is a very exciting and thrilling game. And Roman never thought to break his relationship with Jeff. Many people living in a 24/7 relationship think that a master has a right to have as many subs as he wants and that nothing is due to his subs. That’s not a likable concept for many subs. But how can we pretend that we surrender “completely” to our master’s will if we can’t accept the possibility for him/her to have another sub or at least to play once in a while with another sub? From my point of view, it was Roman’s right to try Dare.
Other readers will probably think that Dare was forced by Roman to play SM. Forced? My Baloney! Dare could have said “no” and leaved at any time. But he stayed and even asked Roman to try other BDSM activities a few times in the story. From my point of view, there wasn’t abuse in this story. There was only a pushy Dom with a hesitant sub.
And don't miss "Out of the Dungeon". That is the continuation of this story.
As I already said, the author’s writing was good enough to make us feel what the characters felt and there is no mistake.
I recommend this story highly and give it big five stars.
*Other reviews here: http://heartsonfirereviews.com/
This is the story of young and naive sub (Dare) completely ignorant of the Domination/submission world and caught under a pushy Dom’s spell (Roman). Dare discovered with a certain dose of thrill this unusual world and its pleasures.
At the beginning, I was disappointed that the story went from Dare to Jeff and all the way around again and again, because I loved Dare's innocence. But the other characters are great too and the story of Dare and Jeff intertwined at the end. The author was able to describe the characters’ feelings so very well that I was transported back in time to my youth when my friends and I stood at the top of the cliff; daring each other to leap toward the water 30 feet below. That swooping anxiety and internal dialogue of 'will I or won't I?' This ability of Johnson's allowed the reader to intimately experience the overwhelming early explorations Dare made into the world of Domination/submission.
It didn't hurt that Roman was the 'ideal' Dom either. Jeff's character nicely rounded out the story and being able to experience the story from each character's point of view just sucked me right in. Although there is a ménage relationship within the story, it was written in a way that you got to experience the complications this type of arrangement can engender in an established relationship. This is not your typical BDSM book; nor is it typical erotic romance. It is a study in kink, relationships, submission and human frailties.
Some readers may think that Roman was unfaithful, since he already had a sub (Jeff) and he hid his BDSM plays with Dare; but I can pretty well understand Roman’s point of view. He is also caught in the game of the new sub’s discovery. This is a very exciting and thrilling game. And Roman never thought to break his relationship with Jeff. Many people living in a 24/7 relationship think that a master has a right to have as many subs as he wants and that nothing is due to his subs. That’s not a likable concept for many subs. But how can we pretend that we surrender “completely” to our master’s will if we can’t accept the possibility for him/her to have another sub or at least to play once in a while with another sub? From my point of view, it was Roman’s right to try Dare.
Other readers will probably think that Dare was forced by Roman to play SM. Forced? My Baloney! Dare could have said “no” and leaved at any time. But he stayed and even asked Roman to try other BDSM activities a few times in the story. From my point of view, there wasn’t abuse in this story. There was only a pushy Dom with a hesitant sub.
And don't miss "Out of the Dungeon". That is the continuation of this story.
As I already said, the author’s writing was good enough to make us feel what the characters felt and there is no mistake.
I recommend this story highly and give it big five stars.
*Other reviews here: http://heartsonfirereviews.com/
April 15, 2010
3.5 stars.
hmmm. Sort of a study in how to get the repressed straight guy from acute vanilla to devoted submissive in less than a month.
All while having a long time partner to balance with the new guy. Add another younger D/s curious boy in the mix for a little while as well.
This book also shifts POV from Jeff to Dare and looks at the situations from both perspectives in overlap at times. They both look at their unique dealings with Roman without any overlap when none is necessary. Sometimes I had to stop and figure out what the shift was. Where the shift was picking up and who was thinking. The first POV shift to Jeff threw me for a loop. I was not at all sure what was going on. I appreciated getting both POV's but it took a minute to figure out that was what was going on.
Roman is the alpha male of all alpha males and he oozes that confidence with charisma and personal strength. I admit it was hard for me to like his partner Jeff at times. He was very realistic in his flaws and that was hard to stare at and accept. Tristan was cute but his quick look at D/s is not enough to entice him. Dare has no idea why he responds to Roman so strongly. He is straight vanilla through and through until he isn't.
I enjoyed the book even if it seemed unrealistically fast paced and leapt from one extreme new idea for Dare to the next that he took very well. I was curious to see how the intricate relationships would resolve themselves although I have no doubt Roman will see to it that they turn out just how he wants them too. However, the book ends well before we get a satisfying HEA. I was shocked when the book ended.
On a side note, it was nice that the women in the book were not all crazed, closed minded, vindictive bitches but even I think the ex-fiance was saint like in her realization and acceptance of Dare's sudden choices. It was nice and I hope people would always act like that but Ms. Vanilla Through & Through seemed to take it unrealistically well. Good for her.
*I would have rounded up to 4 stars if the ending hadn't been so abrupt and sudden and unfullfilling.
hmmm. Sort of a study in how to get the repressed straight guy from acute vanilla to devoted submissive in less than a month.
All while having a long time partner to balance with the new guy. Add another younger D/s curious boy in the mix for a little while as well.
This book also shifts POV from Jeff to Dare and looks at the situations from both perspectives in overlap at times. They both look at their unique dealings with Roman without any overlap when none is necessary. Sometimes I had to stop and figure out what the shift was. Where the shift was picking up and who was thinking. The first POV shift to Jeff threw me for a loop. I was not at all sure what was going on. I appreciated getting both POV's but it took a minute to figure out that was what was going on.
Roman is the alpha male of all alpha males and he oozes that confidence with charisma and personal strength. I admit it was hard for me to like his partner Jeff at times. He was very realistic in his flaws and that was hard to stare at and accept. Tristan was cute but his quick look at D/s is not enough to entice him. Dare has no idea why he responds to Roman so strongly. He is straight vanilla through and through until he isn't.
I enjoyed the book even if it seemed unrealistically fast paced and leapt from one extreme new idea for Dare to the next that he took very well. I was curious to see how the intricate relationships would resolve themselves although I have no doubt Roman will see to it that they turn out just how he wants them too. However, the book ends well before we get a satisfying HEA. I was shocked when the book ended.
On a side note, it was nice that the women in the book were not all crazed, closed minded, vindictive bitches but even I think the ex-fiance was saint like in her realization and acceptance of Dare's sudden choices. It was nice and I hope people would always act like that but Ms. Vanilla Through & Through seemed to take it unrealistically well. Good for her.
*I would have rounded up to 4 stars if the ending hadn't been so abrupt and sudden and unfullfilling.
October 27, 2018
amended 5 March 2017
Okay, I'm officially changing my review on this one - since I couldn't get these characters out of my mind and I'm incredibly curious about the plot on the next book to to mention wondering how they get to the fourth one, well I'm going with three stars and I'm definitely reading the next one...
It bugs me that Roman restrains Dare at the beginning of the book (when they're alone and Dare barely knows him) without a safeword... whatever, I've read Dare in the Dungeon so I know how it all goes down and why, but it still bothers me.
Also there is just something about the writing style that seems awkward, like the author is rushing to catch up but never quite gets there.
Finished, 24 Feb
Yeah I get it but so not for me. I love a dark read but this just didn't do the job.
I'm not going to rate it just based on - it wouldn't be fair to the author, plus maybe someday I'll read the next two just to find out how they got to the fourth one.
Okay, I'm officially changing my review on this one - since I couldn't get these characters out of my mind and I'm incredibly curious about the plot on the next book to to mention wondering how they get to the fourth one, well I'm going with three stars and I'm definitely reading the next one...
It bugs me that Roman restrains Dare at the beginning of the book (when they're alone and Dare barely knows him) without a safeword... whatever, I've read Dare in the Dungeon so I know how it all goes down and why, but it still bothers me.
Also there is just something about the writing style that seems awkward, like the author is rushing to catch up but never quite gets there.
Finished, 24 Feb
Yeah I get it but so not for me. I love a dark read but this just didn't do the job.
I'm not going to rate it just based on - it wouldn't be fair to the author, plus maybe someday I'll read the next two just to find out how they got to the fourth one.
September 4, 2012
This. Book. Was. Fantastic. I read a lot and I have read a lot of BDSM books but rarely do I read a book like this. Johnson was able to describe the feelings the characters felt so very well. I was transported back in time to my youth when my friends & I stood at the top of the cliff; daring each other to leap toward the water 30 feet below. That swooping anxiety & internal dialogue of 'will I or won't I?'. This ability of Johnson's allowed the reader to intimately experience the overwhelming early explorations Dare made into the world of D/s. It didn't hurt that Roman was the 'ideal' Dom either. Jeff's character nicely rounded out the story & being able to experience the story from each character's POV just sucked me right in. Although there is a ménage relationship within the story, it was written in a way that you got to experience the complications this type of arrangement can engender in an established relationship. This is not your typical BDSM book; nor is it typical romance/erotica. It is a study in kink, relationships, submission & human frailties. Highly recommended.
September 11, 2012
Curiosity and Seduction.
Dare strikes out to find what he really wants out of life. Curiosity leads him to a unique opportunity.
Roman, the consummate master finds himself intrigued as he stalks the new bartender in his club. His seduction of Dare's naiveté opens a new chapter.
Jeff, a devoted partner and slave finds his wants aren't what he wanted and that which he didn't want maybe exactly what he wants.
Overall, a fascinating foray into fetish. The POV changes were a bit hard to grasp at times, but become clearer as the story progresses. Nice psychological entrees into the characters' minds.
Dare strikes out to find what he really wants out of life. Curiosity leads him to a unique opportunity.
Roman, the consummate master finds himself intrigued as he stalks the new bartender in his club. His seduction of Dare's naiveté opens a new chapter.
Jeff, a devoted partner and slave finds his wants aren't what he wanted and that which he didn't want maybe exactly what he wants.
Overall, a fascinating foray into fetish. The POV changes were a bit hard to grasp at times, but become clearer as the story progresses. Nice psychological entrees into the characters' minds.
January 19, 2018
3.3 Stars......
Because the 3’s look so nice next to each other and they remind me of the final sex scene in this naughty book.
The writing was a bit erratic, but not necessarily bad. The premise: heterosexual, straight-laced Connecticut country club bred MC escapes his planned life and head to NYC. His cousin gets him a job bar tending at a gay bar, Above the Dungeon. Not too bad for our MBA cutie pie. What follows is the hard to swallow part.....no pun intended!
Said cutie pie, Adair or Dare, finds himself submitting to Roman, the dungeon master immediately. He’s completely new to BDSM and doesn’t quite understand what is happening to him, why he wants this. Sure, there are small-hearted protests of, “But I’m not gay!” Etc., etc. He pretty much does everything Roman tells him to do without question. Period. Now, that must be a Dom voice for the ages if he can get Dockers boy to sit on a chair with a plug on their third “date.”
Roman, on his part, has a 24/7 live-in slave, Jeff. Jeff likes to fall in love, but isn’t too keen when Roman falls for Dare. We see this relationship between the three men unfold via Dare and Jeff’s POV.
Lots of scenes and sex in public and private lead to an HEA for all involved. Even for the almost-fiancée Dare jilted....she gets to see him in all his jeweled glory, and isn’t it a treat!?
So, while not perfect, this engaged me. And yes, there were a lot of BDSM scenes, but not a lot of sex. Although this is the first book in the series, I have read another & recall enjoying that one, too.
Triggers: cheating, drugs, suspensions, lube wrestling (lol), almost dub-con, girls kissing
, female Domme.
Because the 3’s look so nice next to each other and they remind me of the final sex scene in this naughty book.
The writing was a bit erratic, but not necessarily bad. The premise: heterosexual, straight-laced Connecticut country club bred MC escapes his planned life and head to NYC. His cousin gets him a job bar tending at a gay bar, Above the Dungeon. Not too bad for our MBA cutie pie. What follows is the hard to swallow part.....no pun intended!
Said cutie pie, Adair or Dare, finds himself submitting to Roman, the dungeon master immediately. He’s completely new to BDSM and doesn’t quite understand what is happening to him, why he wants this. Sure, there are small-hearted protests of, “But I’m not gay!” Etc., etc. He pretty much does everything Roman tells him to do without question. Period. Now, that must be a Dom voice for the ages if he can get Dockers boy to sit on a chair with a plug on their third “date.”
Roman, on his part, has a 24/7 live-in slave, Jeff. Jeff likes to fall in love, but isn’t too keen when Roman falls for Dare. We see this relationship between the three men unfold via Dare and Jeff’s POV.
Lots of scenes and sex in public and private lead to an HEA for all involved. Even for the almost-fiancée Dare jilted....she gets to see him in all his jeweled glory, and isn’t it a treat!?
So, while not perfect, this engaged me. And yes, there were a lot of BDSM scenes, but not a lot of sex. Although this is the first book in the series, I have read another & recall enjoying that one, too.
Triggers: cheating, drugs, suspensions, lube wrestling (lol), almost dub-con, girls kissing
, female Domme.
November 2, 2011
I loved this story. It somehow gave me a very realistic feel of what Dare was going through when he met Roman and learned about himself. I was rooting for Dare all along and did not want the story to end.
May 22, 2010
Above the Dungeon is a very interesting, intense book. The story is highly erotic and in fact almost all of the character development, dialogue, and action takes place during BDSM scenes and related events. In some ways the sex offered is hard core with edgy sadomasochism, but there are a lot of relationship dynamics and emotional struggles that happen to balance this out. The end result is still a complicated, lightening fast creation that doesn’t wholly answer all the questions posed and ends abruptly but will appeal to those fans of edgy, intense BDSM stories.
The narrative follows straight laced Adair who runs away from his family and country club future to experience something different and unexpected in NYC. His cousin sets him up bartending in a gay bar and before he knows it, straight Dare is getting involved with the Dungeon Master and owner, Roman. Roman already has a long time partner and slave of a dozen years, Jeff, but something about Dare appeals and attracts the leather master. Together the three men work and play as they balance the new appearance of Dare and what that means to the relationship.
The story is mostly decent as it follows Dare’s integration into a serious 24/7 master slave couple while viewing the actions from both Dare and Jeff’s perspective. There are however a few holes that aren’t well explained. The first is the character of Dare, who goes from being completely straight, totally uninterested in BDSM to contemplating being Roman’s slave in a little under a month but really only a handful of times with Roman. He agrees to increasingly uncomfortable situations and circumstances with hardly a qualm or question, way too fast given his history of accepting the easy road. Furthermore Dare expresses maybe a thought or two about butting into Jeff and Roman’s relationship but hardly even considers this. In fact he spends the majority of the time loving and accepting what Roman wants for him.
While the lack of concern from Dane’s perspective about almost anything that happens reads false, it does allow the story to focus on the BDSM action. The story revels in the sexuality, trust, sensuality, and pure mechanics of the buildup and sex. It delves into the acceptance of a submissive and why they crave certain actions, but from the viewpoint of very little to no angst about this. This works well with the character of Jeff who is more concerned about what’s going to happen to his relationship with Roman and is happy and confident in his sexual needs and tastes. His flaws and slight selfishness are on display constantly and somewhat hard to like. He likes to fall in love yet gets very jealous when Roman appears to be doing so. This isn’t pure selfishness or spoiled brat behavior but nuanced with a lot of meaning and background, but Jeff never really becomes a completely likable character.
Likewise Roman stays a mystery as the ultimate Dom that never makes a mistake. He owns the ubiquitous popular bar and BDSM club, held in high esteem by everyone and picks only those worthy to give his attention. He chooses of course the shy, introverted Dare and turns him into a willing submissive. He’s the least well developed of all the characters and that’s partly due to the narrative always being from the slave’s point of view who adore Roman and think he can do no wrong, so of course he doesn’t. This leaves Roman as a decent character but somewhat mysterious and a bit too perfect.
The writing itself is decent with some nice lyrical prose but overall it moves too fast and throws the characters into one scene after another with very little reflection beyond the sexual aspects. The story alternates from Dare’s third person point of view to Jeff’s first person perspective and this is a style that I don’t care for. Reader preference will vary but this tactic always pulls me out of the tale and reminds me I’m reading the manipulations of an author, rather than indulging in a story. The shifting view point stumbles each time, jerking out of an intense scene into something mundane or vice versa creating an uneven pace. The ending as well is completely abrupt and leaves the resolution hanging, with only a vague hope that the characters work something out. There is no real ending to how or even if Roman, Dare, and Jeff end up together and in what way. The book just…ends.
Overall this is a good book that will likely appeal to those BDSM fans looking for something intense and complicated. The shifting first to third POV may bother some but not others so if you’re a fan of edgy, hard hitting BDSM and like a ménage to your men, check this out.
The narrative follows straight laced Adair who runs away from his family and country club future to experience something different and unexpected in NYC. His cousin sets him up bartending in a gay bar and before he knows it, straight Dare is getting involved with the Dungeon Master and owner, Roman. Roman already has a long time partner and slave of a dozen years, Jeff, but something about Dare appeals and attracts the leather master. Together the three men work and play as they balance the new appearance of Dare and what that means to the relationship.
The story is mostly decent as it follows Dare’s integration into a serious 24/7 master slave couple while viewing the actions from both Dare and Jeff’s perspective. There are however a few holes that aren’t well explained. The first is the character of Dare, who goes from being completely straight, totally uninterested in BDSM to contemplating being Roman’s slave in a little under a month but really only a handful of times with Roman. He agrees to increasingly uncomfortable situations and circumstances with hardly a qualm or question, way too fast given his history of accepting the easy road. Furthermore Dare expresses maybe a thought or two about butting into Jeff and Roman’s relationship but hardly even considers this. In fact he spends the majority of the time loving and accepting what Roman wants for him.
While the lack of concern from Dane’s perspective about almost anything that happens reads false, it does allow the story to focus on the BDSM action. The story revels in the sexuality, trust, sensuality, and pure mechanics of the buildup and sex. It delves into the acceptance of a submissive and why they crave certain actions, but from the viewpoint of very little to no angst about this. This works well with the character of Jeff who is more concerned about what’s going to happen to his relationship with Roman and is happy and confident in his sexual needs and tastes. His flaws and slight selfishness are on display constantly and somewhat hard to like. He likes to fall in love yet gets very jealous when Roman appears to be doing so. This isn’t pure selfishness or spoiled brat behavior but nuanced with a lot of meaning and background, but Jeff never really becomes a completely likable character.
Likewise Roman stays a mystery as the ultimate Dom that never makes a mistake. He owns the ubiquitous popular bar and BDSM club, held in high esteem by everyone and picks only those worthy to give his attention. He chooses of course the shy, introverted Dare and turns him into a willing submissive. He’s the least well developed of all the characters and that’s partly due to the narrative always being from the slave’s point of view who adore Roman and think he can do no wrong, so of course he doesn’t. This leaves Roman as a decent character but somewhat mysterious and a bit too perfect.
The writing itself is decent with some nice lyrical prose but overall it moves too fast and throws the characters into one scene after another with very little reflection beyond the sexual aspects. The story alternates from Dare’s third person point of view to Jeff’s first person perspective and this is a style that I don’t care for. Reader preference will vary but this tactic always pulls me out of the tale and reminds me I’m reading the manipulations of an author, rather than indulging in a story. The shifting view point stumbles each time, jerking out of an intense scene into something mundane or vice versa creating an uneven pace. The ending as well is completely abrupt and leaves the resolution hanging, with only a vague hope that the characters work something out. There is no real ending to how or even if Roman, Dare, and Jeff end up together and in what way. The book just…ends.
Overall this is a good book that will likely appeal to those BDSM fans looking for something intense and complicated. The shifting first to third POV may bother some but not others so if you’re a fan of edgy, hard hitting BDSM and like a ménage to your men, check this out.
October 23, 2011
How do I review this book? It moved me more than I cared for it to. Dare is this sweet preppy little boy fallen down a rabbit hole of sexual deviance. Not only is he set to be engaged, but he's straight!!! He ends up as a bartender for a gay club above a professional dungeon. What else can we throw into the mix?
Oh, how about Jeff the asshole who doesn't know how good he has it. Why does he need to keep finding a new play thing? Does he NOT know how this hurts Roman? I mean, how can Roman condone this? How painful is this? Well, Jeff got what he wanted. Now he knows how Roman feels. Dare can easily supplant him. At this point, I'm thinking, serves Jeff right. I don't like Jeff. He wanted his cake and to eat it too, yet relied on Roman to never do the same. What kind of an asshole does this kind of shit?
At the end, it's not really a happily ever after, but more a happily for now. I'm thinking Jeff is going to learn just how good he had it. And he will never have that again. He successfully pushed Roman to bring another into their life. Now he has to lay in the bed he made. (So many cliches from me!) Anyway, I did enjoy the story. I really enjoyed Dare learning about BDSM through Roman. I also enjoyed Jeff's eyes opening to the damage he's caused over the twelve years to a person he professes to love more than life itself. I was kind of hoping for a sequel, but really, I'd rather not because I can't see it ending well.
Oh, how about Jeff the asshole who doesn't know how good he has it. Why does he need to keep finding a new play thing? Does he NOT know how this hurts Roman? I mean, how can Roman condone this? How painful is this? Well, Jeff got what he wanted. Now he knows how Roman feels. Dare can easily supplant him. At this point, I'm thinking, serves Jeff right. I don't like Jeff. He wanted his cake and to eat it too, yet relied on Roman to never do the same. What kind of an asshole does this kind of shit?
At the end, it's not really a happily ever after, but more a happily for now. I'm thinking Jeff is going to learn just how good he had it. And he will never have that again. He successfully pushed Roman to bring another into their life. Now he has to lay in the bed he made. (So many cliches from me!) Anyway, I did enjoy the story. I really enjoyed Dare learning about BDSM through Roman. I also enjoyed Jeff's eyes opening to the damage he's caused over the twelve years to a person he professes to love more than life itself. I was kind of hoping for a sequel, but really, I'd rather not because I can't see it ending well.
January 29, 2013
This was very different to any other m/m BDSM books that I have read. The story revolves around three men, two who are a long term couple, and a younger man that catches the eye of one of them and is brought into the relationship of this pair.
The changing point of views was well done. It read like it was written by the two separate characters.
Roman was a well known Dom, who owns a club with a dungeon downstairs where he works with submissive clients. Jeff was his slave, and they had been together for many years. Dare was a young man from the country club sect that had run away from his life and ended up working at Roman's club.
The story progressed very fast, and I enjoyed watching the different dynamics between an experienced sub with his Master and a young man only just starting to learn about this lifestyle. I would have enjoyed seeing a little bit more love between Roman and Jeff, but that is only a personal preference.
I have heard that the next book is very different to this one, and I look forward to reading it.
The changing point of views was well done. It read like it was written by the two separate characters.
Roman was a well known Dom, who owns a club with a dungeon downstairs where he works with submissive clients. Jeff was his slave, and they had been together for many years. Dare was a young man from the country club sect that had run away from his life and ended up working at Roman's club.
The story progressed very fast, and I enjoyed watching the different dynamics between an experienced sub with his Master and a young man only just starting to learn about this lifestyle. I would have enjoyed seeing a little bit more love between Roman and Jeff, but that is only a personal preference.
I have heard that the next book is very different to this one, and I look forward to reading it.
April 10, 2013
This has to be 5 stars from me. I’ve read some dark things lately (Herbert/Barker) and this immediately offered something deliciously lighter: something that could pull me back from the dread and compulsion of picking up a dark read. I kept coming back to this novel with just a real easy sigh, and it’s been such a long time since I’ve found a novel that’s made me feel so at ease.
I loved the 1st v 3rd switch in pov between Dare and Jeff. The arrangement not only gave both sides of the relationship “argument” here, but also characterised Roman beautifully. And it all played havoc with my loyalties. I hated Roman, even though I should have been hating Jeff; then I was growling at the possible ménage scenario that neither of them obviously wanted. Then I was loving the possible manage scenario because some of the BDSM sex scenes were just so damn hot. And then – stage door opens to allow Dare into the mix.
Jeff, he’s your one-hundred percent sub, but with a twist: always looking for something else -- not someone, just the thrill of something else. I actually loved Jeff. All his insecurities, his selfishness, but mostly how his own selfishness, aided by Roman’s pure patience and understanding, was his own undoing: his Dom gave him everything he wanted, and loved him enough to supply Jeff with everything Jeff thought he wanted. That was something really special to see from Roman, and from a Dom. So when Dare comes into the mix, you can see the possibility of a real threat, and all of Jeff’s insecurities come into play again.
Dare. He’s your typical pretty(ish) rich boy running away from marriage. You could bring in “trope” here, but Dare, he was a surprise, and one I’m not quite sure where he leaves me feeling in the end. He gets drawn willingly to Roman -- and into Roman’s world -- but, and this is part that helped define him in his own right away from trope characters, he pulls himself away from Roman’s world in a bid to retain individual identity. And it’s this that left me a little ‘hmmm’ towards the end. I’d seen Dare getting drawn in body and soul, then when Dare saw Jeff in the 24/7 state, all that heat almost flat-lined. It left a very strange state, but one I can understand. Some people don’t take one-hundred percent to the sub life. So it was good to see that play out and see Dare try to find his comfort levels, and then acknowledge his comfort levels, especially when it came to Roman.
Roman… Mmmmm. The more I think about him, the more I’d like to pull him from the pages and do wicked things to him. I loved how he kept showing his pure commitment to Jeff, even through his fascination with Dare. The tables turned on Jeff again, going from thinking he needed more, to learning Roman maybe was all he needed, to seeing someone else catch Roman’s eye. The whole constantly shifting arrangements made for a whole snake-pit for disaster, but Roman kept coming into his pure Dom roll, showing Jeff how much he loves him, bringing out the best in Dare, so that by the end, there’s a strange part-time sub v full-time sub acceptance with the relationship. I expected Dare to go his own way with how cool he became, or at least find someone else and keep coming back to Roman, so the ending did surprise me a little.
But overall, a fantastic read, and I’m damn sure I’ll picking up the next installments to this.
I loved the 1st v 3rd switch in pov between Dare and Jeff. The arrangement not only gave both sides of the relationship “argument” here, but also characterised Roman beautifully. And it all played havoc with my loyalties. I hated Roman, even though I should have been hating Jeff; then I was growling at the possible ménage scenario that neither of them obviously wanted. Then I was loving the possible manage scenario because some of the BDSM sex scenes were just so damn hot. And then – stage door opens to allow Dare into the mix.
Jeff, he’s your one-hundred percent sub, but with a twist: always looking for something else -- not someone, just the thrill of something else. I actually loved Jeff. All his insecurities, his selfishness, but mostly how his own selfishness, aided by Roman’s pure patience and understanding, was his own undoing: his Dom gave him everything he wanted, and loved him enough to supply Jeff with everything Jeff thought he wanted. That was something really special to see from Roman, and from a Dom. So when Dare comes into the mix, you can see the possibility of a real threat, and all of Jeff’s insecurities come into play again.
Dare. He’s your typical pretty(ish) rich boy running away from marriage. You could bring in “trope” here, but Dare, he was a surprise, and one I’m not quite sure where he leaves me feeling in the end. He gets drawn willingly to Roman -- and into Roman’s world -- but, and this is part that helped define him in his own right away from trope characters, he pulls himself away from Roman’s world in a bid to retain individual identity. And it’s this that left me a little ‘hmmm’ towards the end. I’d seen Dare getting drawn in body and soul, then when Dare saw Jeff in the 24/7 state, all that heat almost flat-lined. It left a very strange state, but one I can understand. Some people don’t take one-hundred percent to the sub life. So it was good to see that play out and see Dare try to find his comfort levels, and then acknowledge his comfort levels, especially when it came to Roman.
Roman… Mmmmm. The more I think about him, the more I’d like to pull him from the pages and do wicked things to him. I loved how he kept showing his pure commitment to Jeff, even through his fascination with Dare. The tables turned on Jeff again, going from thinking he needed more, to learning Roman maybe was all he needed, to seeing someone else catch Roman’s eye. The whole constantly shifting arrangements made for a whole snake-pit for disaster, but Roman kept coming into his pure Dom roll, showing Jeff how much he loves him, bringing out the best in Dare, so that by the end, there’s a strange part-time sub v full-time sub acceptance with the relationship. I expected Dare to go his own way with how cool he became, or at least find someone else and keep coming back to Roman, so the ending did surprise me a little.
But overall, a fantastic read, and I’m damn sure I’ll picking up the next installments to this.
May 18, 2010
From the buckle on the high-contrast cover, to the end; this books gets your attention and doesn’t let up.
Dare is pure vanilla in his Dockers and Polo shirt. Fresh from escaping a predestined suburban life, he lands in NYC, quickly getting a bartending job. How hard could it be? After all, he’d mixed drinks at the country club most of his life. However, he hadn’t had a Dom take an interest in him before.
This story is absorbing and produces a page turning, engrossing book about fascinating individuals. The writing is solid with vivid description and dialogue that rings true. Alternating between Dare’s narrative in third person and Jeff’s in first, the switch is jarring at first. However, then you quickly become aware that you are not reading the normal fare.
When it is Jeff’s turn, there is no doubt what is going on in his head as a submissive. And that in itself is interesting. We’re with him as he runs through his doubts and anxieties; and we understand very clearly his motivations and why he relies on Roman.
Dare, on the other hand, is somewhat of a mystery. He doesn’t even know himself. We get the feeling that Roman understands him better than anyone. Most readers could probably identify with Dare and his ‘normal’ upbringing. To read about his transition is fascinating stuff as his emotions run the gamut.
This book has what I like in an m/m story. The characters are well defined with tangible emotions and believable motives. Of course, this book is also very erotic. The BDSM scenes are highly charged. But the seduction of Dare is akin to a long delicious foreplay. Believe me; it takes a lot to make me go, “Whew!” while reading a sex scene.
There is definitely room, and a need, for a sequel. I want to read about the three main characters as they continue to grow personally and in their relationships. If you enjoy BDSM stories, and the motivations of characters who engage in the lifestyle, then you will want to read this book. I recommend it.
I wonder what else SM Johnson has in store for us? I’ll be waiting.
Dare is pure vanilla in his Dockers and Polo shirt. Fresh from escaping a predestined suburban life, he lands in NYC, quickly getting a bartending job. How hard could it be? After all, he’d mixed drinks at the country club most of his life. However, he hadn’t had a Dom take an interest in him before.
This story is absorbing and produces a page turning, engrossing book about fascinating individuals. The writing is solid with vivid description and dialogue that rings true. Alternating between Dare’s narrative in third person and Jeff’s in first, the switch is jarring at first. However, then you quickly become aware that you are not reading the normal fare.
When it is Jeff’s turn, there is no doubt what is going on in his head as a submissive. And that in itself is interesting. We’re with him as he runs through his doubts and anxieties; and we understand very clearly his motivations and why he relies on Roman.
Dare, on the other hand, is somewhat of a mystery. He doesn’t even know himself. We get the feeling that Roman understands him better than anyone. Most readers could probably identify with Dare and his ‘normal’ upbringing. To read about his transition is fascinating stuff as his emotions run the gamut.
This book has what I like in an m/m story. The characters are well defined with tangible emotions and believable motives. Of course, this book is also very erotic. The BDSM scenes are highly charged. But the seduction of Dare is akin to a long delicious foreplay. Believe me; it takes a lot to make me go, “Whew!” while reading a sex scene.
There is definitely room, and a need, for a sequel. I want to read about the three main characters as they continue to grow personally and in their relationships. If you enjoy BDSM stories, and the motivations of characters who engage in the lifestyle, then you will want to read this book. I recommend it.
I wonder what else SM Johnson has in store for us? I’ll be waiting.
March 22, 2013
Great story!
I absolutely hated it, but it is a great story and there is no way in hell I can rest until I know what happens next.... Out of the Dungeon
*******************************************************
What makes this such an extraordinary read is the depiction of "the good, the bad, and the ugly".
Morbid fascination is how I would describe Dare's observations as well as being his motivation. He seemed to become mesmerized by Roman almost instantly. Makes for an interesting story, but I felt nothing but pity for him as he capitulated time and again against his own better judgement and put himself at the mercy of a man, who from what I read, was not necessarily trust worthy. Roman's only concern seemed to be himself and his own gratification.
The established relationship between Roman and Jeff is so bitter sweet I could hardly stand it. Twelve years. Jeff is honest and devoted, Roman uses that honesty and devotion like a weapon against him, but the love they share is palpable.
And therein lies the tale... every moment, every word, every emotion; you feel. You as the reader share the highs, lows, humiliations.
Just a few thoughts, now I must go read more...
June 4, 2010
Stellar book. The reader is taken on two journeys, with Dare as a bewildered newbie to the scene and with Jeff as experienced slave. There's enough of Roman, Dom to both, subtley buried to take us along on his journey as he introduces Dare to the Lifestyle and just as importantly, begins drawing the three of them together as well.
But it's only the beginning. Don't expect to reach book's end to find Roman, Jeff and Dare living kinkily ever after. Doesn't happen. While Jeff has -- at least in that moment (in scene) -- accepted Dare and opened his heart to him, Dare is still questioning his place, what he wants and what he'll give. He's still struggling.
If you're looking for gripping and intense, congrats, you found it. Dare's story isn't finished, though, so I took off one star for that, but otherwise, a compelling five-star read. Don't pass on this one. Just be prepared for the lack of HEA.
But it's only the beginning. Don't expect to reach book's end to find Roman, Jeff and Dare living kinkily ever after. Doesn't happen. While Jeff has -- at least in that moment (in scene) -- accepted Dare and opened his heart to him, Dare is still questioning his place, what he wants and what he'll give. He's still struggling.
If you're looking for gripping and intense, congrats, you found it. Dare's story isn't finished, though, so I took off one star for that, but otherwise, a compelling five-star read. Don't pass on this one. Just be prepared for the lack of HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2015
This was definitely a departure from your typical BDSM reads out there, and frankly it was a breath of fresh air. Now I will admit that I was a tad put off by the switching from third person to first person when characters switched, but then towards the end I realized why the author did this so I'm good with that now. :) I think what I like most about this book, was just how seemingly real the author's approach was to the lives of these characters. Their world isn't perfect by any means, and it doesn't end in a perfect HEA for the characters either. It was all just very interesting and I enjoyed it quite a bit. I honestly think that this book was a great read, and I immediately purchased the rest of the books for this series once I was done to find out what happens next with this crew. :)
August 3, 2011
Author: SM Johnson
Publisher: Torquere Press
Page Count (pdf): 309
Published: 2011?
Rainbow eBooks: $5.99
When Date, a straight preppy guy runs away from his family and commitments, he goes to his gay cousin to help him explore a new path. Little did he know that included BDSM, bar tending at a gay bar and exploring his own sexuality.
When this book started, it seemed destined that the powerful Dom and owner of the bar and dungeon, was going to be the love interest for Dare – but the story doesn’t really stop there. I think that was where this book lost me, to be honest. There was some hot sex and BDSM exploration, but the undefined relationships were a bit difficult to connect with. Now don’t get me wrong, the sex was a ton of fun to read – even if it seemed at times, a bit disjointed from the overall story; the BDSM play was consistent throughout, which was also a nice change of pace.
Despite all of the available avenues for this story to take, it remained very surface level – even left me wondering how the relationships were left at the end. This is a definite hot read for people who enjoy reading about multiple partners and undefined relationships, or just want some steaming D/s scenes.
Out of four…
Overall Read: ♥♥
Sex Heat: ♥♥♥♥
Plot: ♥
I would recommend this for experienced readers, and those just looking for sex, sex and sex, particularly those who are looking for steamy D/s scenes – as the consistency of each character’s role was the strength throughout.
Publisher: Torquere Press
Page Count (pdf): 309
Published: 2011?
Rainbow eBooks: $5.99
When Date, a straight preppy guy runs away from his family and commitments, he goes to his gay cousin to help him explore a new path. Little did he know that included BDSM, bar tending at a gay bar and exploring his own sexuality.
When this book started, it seemed destined that the powerful Dom and owner of the bar and dungeon, was going to be the love interest for Dare – but the story doesn’t really stop there. I think that was where this book lost me, to be honest. There was some hot sex and BDSM exploration, but the undefined relationships were a bit difficult to connect with. Now don’t get me wrong, the sex was a ton of fun to read – even if it seemed at times, a bit disjointed from the overall story; the BDSM play was consistent throughout, which was also a nice change of pace.
Despite all of the available avenues for this story to take, it remained very surface level – even left me wondering how the relationships were left at the end. This is a definite hot read for people who enjoy reading about multiple partners and undefined relationships, or just want some steaming D/s scenes.
Out of four…
Overall Read: ♥♥
Sex Heat: ♥♥♥♥
Plot: ♥
I would recommend this for experienced readers, and those just looking for sex, sex and sex, particularly those who are looking for steamy D/s scenes – as the consistency of each character’s role was the strength throughout.
August 2, 2014
I was really in 2 minds about this book.
I started off thinking WTF!
Dare is a virgin when it comes to the BDSM scene and gets swept up in the whirlwind that is Roman.
I found it a little incredulous that he would 'agree' to some of the things he did at the start. There was no discussion and no negotiating. In fact, when Dare mentions it, Roman says that because he is new to the scene everything would be a hard limit and therefore discussing them would be pointless. Not sure I understand that or even agree with that.
Then there is Jeff. Roman's 24/7 slave. He wants to fall in love with somebody else, and brings Tristan home. However, that does not last too long and in the end, Dare is in bed with them both and the story ends.
It took me a little while to get over the fact that they cheated on one another and also the story changes the POV every chapter and sometimes it is difficult to understand who is speaking.
However, about 75% of the way through, something just clicked and I found myself being drawn in more to the story and yes, I have purchased the 2nd and 3rd books in this series.
I started off thinking WTF!
Dare is a virgin when it comes to the BDSM scene and gets swept up in the whirlwind that is Roman.
I found it a little incredulous that he would 'agree' to some of the things he did at the start. There was no discussion and no negotiating. In fact, when Dare mentions it, Roman says that because he is new to the scene everything would be a hard limit and therefore discussing them would be pointless. Not sure I understand that or even agree with that.
Then there is Jeff. Roman's 24/7 slave. He wants to fall in love with somebody else, and brings Tristan home. However, that does not last too long and in the end, Dare is in bed with them both and the story ends.
It took me a little while to get over the fact that they cheated on one another and also the story changes the POV every chapter and sometimes it is difficult to understand who is speaking.
However, about 75% of the way through, something just clicked and I found myself being drawn in more to the story and yes, I have purchased the 2nd and 3rd books in this series.
August 27, 2016
2.5*
I liked most of the interactions of Dare and Roman. I think I could have loved this story if it was just them. I did not like Jeff. He took away from the book completely. He was spoiled and childish. I didn't like the abrupt ending which left quite a bit to be desired (to me). I won't be reading the next books in the series because they simply don't go in the direction that I expected. I also had a problem with the lack of safewords. Dare is a complete novice. There are several times I felt like Roman was taking away Dare's ability to decide whether or not to consent. That doesn't go along with any of the most basic rules of BDSM (safe, sane, consensual).
I liked most of the interactions of Dare and Roman. I think I could have loved this story if it was just them. I did not like Jeff. He took away from the book completely. He was spoiled and childish. I didn't like the abrupt ending which left quite a bit to be desired (to me). I won't be reading the next books in the series because they simply don't go in the direction that I expected. I also had a problem with the lack of safewords. Dare is a complete novice. There are several times I felt like Roman was taking away Dare's ability to decide whether or not to consent. That doesn't go along with any of the most basic rules of BDSM (safe, sane, consensual).
March 21, 2011
4.5 stars
fantastically captivating. well written, interesting, great build, solid characters, very limited sex scenes for this subgenre- rather focusing on the growing intimacy. not quite a m/m/m.
fantastically captivating. well written, interesting, great build, solid characters, very limited sex scenes for this subgenre- rather focusing on the growing intimacy. not quite a m/m/m.
June 24, 2010
This is about 3 men and how they learn to love each other and learn from each other. It was a great read.
July 18, 2015
Not sure how I felt about this one. I didn't quite like the characters Roman and Jeff. I just never seem to connect to them. I am not sure if I will continue on with the series.
April 6, 2013
Will review later. Started the next book... Must not stop.
Read
July 3, 2010Above the Dungeon is maybe a bit much to extreme to be my cup of tea, I’m not sure I would be comfortable to live an experience like the one in this novel, but indeed it has an original development and some nice and particular characters. The odd thing is that I really didn’t “like” any of those characters, and for like I mean in a very personal way, and that is perfect understandable since I would not want the lifestyle they so obvious need. It’s not a judge on what they want; it’s an admission of what I would not be able to understand.
The story is told in two points of view, something I didn’t immediately understand and it made the discovery pretty nice. Adair is a out of age runaway “kid”: he is 26 years old and till now he has always lived the life someone else planned for him; but when he was there to do that final step, marrying the nice girl his father chooses for him, Adair broke free from the cage and the place where he finds a shelter is his cousin Maddox’s New York apartment, and also a job as bartender in the gay club the same Maddox works as bouncer. Above the Dungeon is indeed a night club above the Dungeon of Roman, and Roman takes immediately under his wings the new kid on the block, and recognize in him the desire, and need, to be freed by his straight laced upbringing. Adair, now Dare, will find in Above the Dungeon more than a job, and will find freedom in being in power of someone else… this is probably what I didn’t like of him, I would have preferred for him to take a more independent path, to probably discover a bit ore of himself before giving all of him to another man.
In any case, Roman remained a mystery, even more when the second chapter, and second point of view started, the one of Jeff, the long-term 24/7 slave of Roman, the one who is living with him. As Jeff himself explains to the reader, Roman and he don’t have an open relationship, but are aware that cheating is a possibility, and they went through it in the past, but they had already decided that their relationship is more important. They are together since 12 years, and they are pretty sure that it will be something lasting forever, and so he thought Jeff before Dare enters the picture. Until then it was Jeff who had some out-track experiences, but they were mostly flirts, something Jeff probably needed to prove that he was still an attractive man, I felt a bit of self-esteem issues in Jeff, something that he probably brought on from his family background. But the relationship between Dare and Roman is not a flirt, not like the one we witness between Roman, Jeff and Tristan. And Dare has to come to pact to this new development to not face the possibility to loose Roman.
And now we come to Roman; I think that he has actually never expressed any preferences over Dare rather than Jeff; indeed if asked, Roman told that he would not willing to jeopardize what he has with Jeff, and that he would be willing to let it go Dare. But Jeff knows that he can’t put Roman in front of a choice, since Roman is the Master and Jeff the slave, and so in no way Jeff can ask to Roman to choose between him and Dare. Roman’s reassurance to Jeff is done by words, but also with gesture, like really collaring him, for the first time in 12 years, and not only as a play during sex.
Again, I’m not sure the balance Jeff, Roman and Dare find is something that will last, I’m not so sure that Jeff is really willing, or able to share Roman, as indeed I’m not sure Dare is really ready for this relationship. In any case, the author is able to make me wonder about it all, and this means these characters have depth and development.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003MQMNS6/?...
The story is told in two points of view, something I didn’t immediately understand and it made the discovery pretty nice. Adair is a out of age runaway “kid”: he is 26 years old and till now he has always lived the life someone else planned for him; but when he was there to do that final step, marrying the nice girl his father chooses for him, Adair broke free from the cage and the place where he finds a shelter is his cousin Maddox’s New York apartment, and also a job as bartender in the gay club the same Maddox works as bouncer. Above the Dungeon is indeed a night club above the Dungeon of Roman, and Roman takes immediately under his wings the new kid on the block, and recognize in him the desire, and need, to be freed by his straight laced upbringing. Adair, now Dare, will find in Above the Dungeon more than a job, and will find freedom in being in power of someone else… this is probably what I didn’t like of him, I would have preferred for him to take a more independent path, to probably discover a bit ore of himself before giving all of him to another man.
In any case, Roman remained a mystery, even more when the second chapter, and second point of view started, the one of Jeff, the long-term 24/7 slave of Roman, the one who is living with him. As Jeff himself explains to the reader, Roman and he don’t have an open relationship, but are aware that cheating is a possibility, and they went through it in the past, but they had already decided that their relationship is more important. They are together since 12 years, and they are pretty sure that it will be something lasting forever, and so he thought Jeff before Dare enters the picture. Until then it was Jeff who had some out-track experiences, but they were mostly flirts, something Jeff probably needed to prove that he was still an attractive man, I felt a bit of self-esteem issues in Jeff, something that he probably brought on from his family background. But the relationship between Dare and Roman is not a flirt, not like the one we witness between Roman, Jeff and Tristan. And Dare has to come to pact to this new development to not face the possibility to loose Roman.
And now we come to Roman; I think that he has actually never expressed any preferences over Dare rather than Jeff; indeed if asked, Roman told that he would not willing to jeopardize what he has with Jeff, and that he would be willing to let it go Dare. But Jeff knows that he can’t put Roman in front of a choice, since Roman is the Master and Jeff the slave, and so in no way Jeff can ask to Roman to choose between him and Dare. Roman’s reassurance to Jeff is done by words, but also with gesture, like really collaring him, for the first time in 12 years, and not only as a play during sex.
Again, I’m not sure the balance Jeff, Roman and Dare find is something that will last, I’m not so sure that Jeff is really willing, or able to share Roman, as indeed I’m not sure Dare is really ready for this relationship. In any case, the author is able to make me wonder about it all, and this means these characters have depth and development.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003MQMNS6/?...
December 15, 2014
Above the Dungeon is another book that I can add to my list of annoying 1st/3rd person narrative flip-floppers. But I think I must be getting use to it since that didn't bother me nearly us much as it has in other books. I actually think it kind of works, since Dare, whose chapters are in 3rd person, is kind of an observer. He's not totally part of the action. Then there's Jeff, who has the 1st person chapters, who is a 24/7 slave to Roman, the club owner and Dare's boss. These two POVs are extremely different from one another, and the narrative style definitely exaggerates that fact.
At first it feels like there are two separate plots happening here. We have Dare, who is quite up tight, and stumbles into a job as a bartender in a gay club. Roman decides to take him under this wing and give a tour of the BDSM lifestyle. While this does interest Dare, he's struggle with what it means for his sexuality. Eventually he learns that sexuality is not set in stone or black and white; there's a whole spectrum of gray. Meanwhile, we also have Roman and Jeff's long term relationship. Jeff longs to fall in love again, and wishes Roman would, too. But there's the issue of jealousy and what bringing a new man would mean for Jeff's position as Roman's slave. Eventually these two plots merge together seamlessly.
I found the glimpse into a 24/7 slave relationship very interesting. I hadn't read about that before, so I felt like I was learning right along with Tristan (another man considered into the Roman/Jeff relationship) and Dare. Even though it's a whole different lifestyle, Roman and Jeff do have some of the same issues as "normal" couples. I enjoyed reading about them. I also loved watching Dare open up. He was very wound up, but Roman knew exactly how to loosen him up.
I ended up really enjoying Above the Dungeon. It was only my second M/M erotic novel, but I found that I didn't even think about the fact that it was only men. I just liked the overall story.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
At first it feels like there are two separate plots happening here. We have Dare, who is quite up tight, and stumbles into a job as a bartender in a gay club. Roman decides to take him under this wing and give a tour of the BDSM lifestyle. While this does interest Dare, he's struggle with what it means for his sexuality. Eventually he learns that sexuality is not set in stone or black and white; there's a whole spectrum of gray. Meanwhile, we also have Roman and Jeff's long term relationship. Jeff longs to fall in love again, and wishes Roman would, too. But there's the issue of jealousy and what bringing a new man would mean for Jeff's position as Roman's slave. Eventually these two plots merge together seamlessly.
I found the glimpse into a 24/7 slave relationship very interesting. I hadn't read about that before, so I felt like I was learning right along with Tristan (another man considered into the Roman/Jeff relationship) and Dare. Even though it's a whole different lifestyle, Roman and Jeff do have some of the same issues as "normal" couples. I enjoyed reading about them. I also loved watching Dare open up. He was very wound up, but Roman knew exactly how to loosen him up.
I ended up really enjoying Above the Dungeon. It was only my second M/M erotic novel, but I found that I didn't even think about the fact that it was only men. I just liked the overall story.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
January 14, 2014
Emotional
Intense
Two words that describe Above the Dungeon to a T. The emotion is not a tear-jerker, emotional roller coaster, but more of a discovery of ones self and all the feelings that go along with that. Everything in this book is intense. Every scene, every conversation, every look is full of promise, discovery, or emotion.
Dare fled his life to start over in the city. He’s staying with his cousin and working in a gay fetish bar. Roman owns the bar and the dungeon below it. Jeff is Roman’s slave.
Roman takes a liking to Dare and brings him into the BDSM lifestyle as well as an introduction to enjoying men in a sexual way. Dare takes it all in stride while questioning things as he goes. It wasn’t an easy introduction for Dare, but he handled it well. Jeff takes all this in stride since it’s Roman’s will.
This was an interesting story and one I loved to read. SM Johnson did a fantastic job with delivering a wonderful story and giving each character so much depth. A wide range of emotions were dealt with in this story. We had fear, jealousy, love, new love, lust, infatuation and acceptance.
My only problem with this story was the changing of the POV. We kept flipping from Jeff’s POV to Dare’s POV. On top of that it switched from third person (Dare) to first person (Jeff). Every time there was a switch I was dropped out of the story. My suspension of disbelief was interrupted, and it took me a few minutes each time to get back into the story.
Overall a very good story and I plan to read the second one in this series. I have to see how things turn out. There was no great cliffhanger at end of the story, but there were some unanswered questions.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
December 25, 2012
Great book! Very sexy, pushes the edges of the d/s theme in careful, loving ways.
How many of you are struck, in many stories, by the male characters' supposed comfort level with the sex-with-anyone-is-cool attitude? It strikes me every time it appears that the human male animal can be so different from the female. Maybe it's just true in these stories. Anyone know? Can men really move between partners, whether m/m or m/f, because the physical sex act is so often just a release? So many of the characters in these type of stories engage in impersonal, serial sex with strangers and then are sorta rescued from that empty life by finding a meaningful and loving partner. But in many of the m/m stories, sex is not always laden with emotions, sometimes it is just a physical activity. Like jogging or lifting weights! HA!
The story here was told from the perspective of three men. It switched around unexpectedly but it worked very well. I wish the story had a stronger conclusion. I find it hard to appreciate the HFN endings. It feels unfinished, questions are unresolved. But I loved the questions these guys were asking, especially about submission. They aren't whiny about submitting like so many female characters. Guys just do it or not. I enjoy characters who can make a decision, do it quickly and cleanly, and move on to the next situation or activity. Maybe that's why I like alpha male characters. Me Tarzan. You Jane. Take your clothes off. Annnnnd we're all good!
How many of you are struck, in many stories, by the male characters' supposed comfort level with the sex-with-anyone-is-cool attitude? It strikes me every time it appears that the human male animal can be so different from the female. Maybe it's just true in these stories. Anyone know? Can men really move between partners, whether m/m or m/f, because the physical sex act is so often just a release? So many of the characters in these type of stories engage in impersonal, serial sex with strangers and then are sorta rescued from that empty life by finding a meaningful and loving partner. But in many of the m/m stories, sex is not always laden with emotions, sometimes it is just a physical activity. Like jogging or lifting weights! HA!
The story here was told from the perspective of three men. It switched around unexpectedly but it worked very well. I wish the story had a stronger conclusion. I find it hard to appreciate the HFN endings. It feels unfinished, questions are unresolved. But I loved the questions these guys were asking, especially about submission. They aren't whiny about submitting like so many female characters. Guys just do it or not. I enjoy characters who can make a decision, do it quickly and cleanly, and move on to the next situation or activity. Maybe that's why I like alpha male characters. Me Tarzan. You Jane. Take your clothes off. Annnnnd we're all good!
May 21, 2017
What an interesting story! Adair runs away from his privileged life feeling like there's something more out there. He was ready to propose to his long-time girlfriend, but realized the life that was planned for him was missing something. He ends up staying with his cousin in New York and from there Adair's life changes more than he ever imagined. His cousin, Doc, is gay and works at a gay bar. He gets Adair a job there, changes his name to Dare and even gets him wearing different clothes and a thong! Roman is the owner of the club, Above the Dungeon, and a professional Dom. Roman has had a long term relationship with his 24/7 slave Jeff, and it is somewhat open. Periodically Jeff feels the need to "fall in love" and tells Roman he wants to find someone. In the meantime, Dare has caught Roman's eye. There is some cattiness and jealousy with Jeff, and quite a lot of confusion with Dare as he is exposed to situations he never, ever expected. Was Roman manipulative in getting Dare to do some of these things? Probably, and there are times in the story that I was annoyed with both Roman and Jeff for their antics. But, hey, that's part of what makes the book interesting. Oh, and the hot scenes! Looking forward to reading the next installment to see what happens with these guys. Another nice thing about this book - no cliffhanger!
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