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Leather and Lattes #1
Immersion Play
One bratty boy searching for somewhere to call home, one damaged Daddy Dom looking to escape his grief, and one kinky found family ready to help them both heal.
Micah’s starting over. He left his old life in the middle of the night and showed up in San Francisco on a job tip from a friend. However, when Meg hires him at Whipped, he not only enters a new city but also a whole new world with this cozy crew of kinksters. And one man continues to catch his attention again and again.
Parker doesn’t do relationships. After his mom died and his father became a shell of himself, he swore never to let anyone wreck him like that. Except Micah’s gotten under his skin. The hot new barista at Whipped isn’t as vanilla as they all thought, and he’s the brattiest boy that Parker could’ve ever dreamed of playing with. The connection between them? Incendiary.
However, the deeper their relationship grows, the more Micah’s realizing he can’t just be casual with Parker—not anymore. The man’s made a mark on his soul, inspired dreams Micah had never even thought to reach for. But if Parker isn’t willing to bend his rules to risk his heart, the two of them are definitely going to break.
Enter Whipped, a unique cafe that caters to coffee and kink addicts alike...
Micah’s starting over. He left his old life in the middle of the night and showed up in San Francisco on a job tip from a friend. However, when Meg hires him at Whipped, he not only enters a new city but also a whole new world with this cozy crew of kinksters. And one man continues to catch his attention again and again.
Parker doesn’t do relationships. After his mom died and his father became a shell of himself, he swore never to let anyone wreck him like that. Except Micah’s gotten under his skin. The hot new barista at Whipped isn’t as vanilla as they all thought, and he’s the brattiest boy that Parker could’ve ever dreamed of playing with. The connection between them? Incendiary.
However, the deeper their relationship grows, the more Micah’s realizing he can’t just be casual with Parker—not anymore. The man’s made a mark on his soul, inspired dreams Micah had never even thought to reach for. But if Parker isn’t willing to bend his rules to risk his heart, the two of them are definitely going to break.
Enter Whipped, a unique cafe that caters to coffee and kink addicts alike...
297 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2024
117 people are currently reading
331 people want to read
About the author
Katherine McIntyre
86 books729 followersGeeky Queer Romance.
Katherine McIntyre is feisty with a big attitude despite their short stature. They write stories featuring snarky women, ragtag crews, and men with bad attitudes—high chance for a passionate speech thrown into the mix. As a genderqueer geek who’s always stepped to their own beat, they've made it their mission to write stories that represent the broad spectrum of people out there. Easily distracted by cats and sugar.
Katherine McIntyre is feisty with a big attitude despite their short stature. They write stories featuring snarky women, ragtag crews, and men with bad attitudes—high chance for a passionate speech thrown into the mix. As a genderqueer geek who’s always stepped to their own beat, they've made it their mission to write stories that represent the broad spectrum of people out there. Easily distracted by cats and sugar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
March 27, 2024
⭐️ 3 stars ⭐️
Very, very true words.
Unfortunately, this book was on the predictable side. Fun and a sprinkle of kinky, but not very deep, despite some heavy themes throughout. I felt that said themes — namely the grief, the parental loss on different levels, the battle with homophobia — were very brushed over, thus failing to achieve that deeper connection.
I love a good kink awakening, so following Micah and this little sexual exploration was a treat. The relationship, however, was very surface-level and mostly sex-centered. Hot, but not emotionally satisfying.
I did enjoy the smut side, very ‘introduction to the kink world’ style, but I was hoping for a more impactful connection to the MCs.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Mentions of suicidal ideation
- Grief (loss of parent)
- Homophobia
- Public kink scenes (f/x scene in background)
- D/s dynamic (Daddy dom vs bratty sub)
- Spanking & pain play
- Toys
- Daddy kink (no age-play)
- CNC play
- Strict top/bottom
- Kink awakening
- Restraints
- Rimming
- Coming untouched scene
“Well, damn,” Parker murmured. “You’re full of surprises, Abrams.”
“Life’s not fun if it’s predictable.”
Very, very true words.
Unfortunately, this book was on the predictable side. Fun and a sprinkle of kinky, but not very deep, despite some heavy themes throughout. I felt that said themes — namely the grief, the parental loss on different levels, the battle with homophobia — were very brushed over, thus failing to achieve that deeper connection.
I love a good kink awakening, so following Micah and this little sexual exploration was a treat. The relationship, however, was very surface-level and mostly sex-centered. Hot, but not emotionally satisfying.
I did enjoy the smut side, very ‘introduction to the kink world’ style, but I was hoping for a more impactful connection to the MCs.
“Oh god, this is nauseating. Feelings shares and cuddles? What sort of scary Dom are you?” “Sweetheart, this is what kink is all about.”
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Mentions of suicidal ideation
- Grief (loss of parent)
- Homophobia
- Public kink scenes (f/x scene in background)
- D/s dynamic (Daddy dom vs bratty sub)
- Spanking & pain play
- Toys
- Daddy kink (no age-play)
- CNC play
- Strict top/bottom
- Kink awakening
- Restraints
- Rimming
- Coming untouched scene
November 15, 2024
DNF - 45%/page 125
It's not bad, it's just not my style. Too lighthearted, a lot of talking and light backstory, the BDSM scenes are also light.
Probably a good match for someone who wants more story and light BDSM or a fun intro to the kink scene.
Stop saying vanilla. (31 times, leave me alone, I like to count stuff.)
"Vanilla. The guy was vanilla."
Yeah, we got it. He's V-A-N-I-L-L-A and you're super duper Daddy Dom. Cue 5,000 check-ins.
It's not bad, it's just not my style. Too lighthearted, a lot of talking and light backstory, the BDSM scenes are also light.
Probably a good match for someone who wants more story and light BDSM or a fun intro to the kink scene.
Stop saying vanilla. (31 times, leave me alone, I like to count stuff.)
"Vanilla. The guy was vanilla."
Yeah, we got it. He's V-A-N-I-L-L-A and you're super duper Daddy Dom. Cue 5,000 check-ins.
April 10, 2024
This was a great read. The idea of a kink-friendly café run by friends who are family is such a refreshing take on kink. The concept of cosy kink is one I love, something different from the usual depictions of kink we find in romance and smut. Micah leaves his stifling hometown and starts working at the café thanks to his best friend who's a kinkster. Parker is one of the Doms that offers lessons there and he's a friend of the owner. When they meet, sparks fly. But they both are a bit broken inside, so they'll need to overcome the obstacles their past hurts put in their path. This story is character based and every single one of their interactions were wholesome, in spite of their wounds. Parker has a fear of relationships and Micah is trying to be free from diminishing himself for others. I truly loved how their kink relationship didn't obscure their personal relationship.
I'm not usually a super fan of how daddy kink is portrayed (it gives me the ick, because you can be daddy without being belittling and it usually doesn't happen), but here it was PERFECTION.
The way the kink community is portrayed was also on point. I loved the found family aspect of the story, as well as the hurt/comfort between thr MCs.
Can't wait to read the next!
I'm not usually a super fan of how daddy kink is portrayed (it gives me the ick, because you can be daddy without being belittling and it usually doesn't happen), but here it was PERFECTION.
The way the kink community is portrayed was also on point. I loved the found family aspect of the story, as well as the hurt/comfort between thr MCs.
Can't wait to read the next!
May 29, 2025
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS: Kink/Homophobic Family/Severe Depression
One bratty boy searching for somewhere to call home, one damaged Daddy Dom looking to escape his grief, and one kinky found family ready to help them both heal.
Micah Abrams has come to and past, his breaking point; in the middle of the night...without a second thought or a plan, he packs up and moves back to San Francisco, where he went to college, and as far away as he could get from his stifling, disapproving parents and his hometown.
Parker Edwards is a Daddy Dom who works at "Whipped", a coffee shop by day and a kink club by night, where he often does demos. He has managed to keep himself closed off from a committed relationship, He's seen how the committed relationship that his parents had has affected his dad after his mother’s death and Parker decides that he wants nothing to do with anything that would cause that...and he knows that all relationships end eventually. But then he sees the new hired guy. Micah is a bratty boy and that captures his attention, and Parker’s "inner Daddy" is demanding to "come out". Parker is desperately trying to get his father to want to live again, and Micah is dealing with his homophobic parents, so eventually emotions come crashing down. As they try to support each other, Micah realizes he’s fallen in love with Parker but also knowing how Parker feels about long-term relationships, Micah knows he has no choice but to walk away. Parker realizes his mistake in letting Micah go, and with a few well-meaning good friends, he knows he has to get Parker back.
I first "met" this author, Katheryn McIntyre, when several years ago I received two of her earlier books to read and review"...so when I saw this one on Hoopla, I was excited to reacquaint myself with her and read it. If you have never read books that have a kink theme or element in them, you probably should be aware that there are a few scenes here that might be considered "heavy kink" to the newbies, and like all aspects of any story, they may not be for everyone...so please check the warnings here and the content warnings in the book, but overall I considered the kink here to be fairly light and not too extreme...but again, that will depend on your level of endurance with the subject. I found the homophobic parents MUCH more bothersome than any of the kink scenes...at least you know the players in the kink scenes loved and accepted one another.
One bratty boy searching for somewhere to call home, one damaged Daddy Dom looking to escape his grief, and one kinky found family ready to help them both heal.
Micah Abrams has come to and past, his breaking point; in the middle of the night...without a second thought or a plan, he packs up and moves back to San Francisco, where he went to college, and as far away as he could get from his stifling, disapproving parents and his hometown.
Parker Edwards is a Daddy Dom who works at "Whipped", a coffee shop by day and a kink club by night, where he often does demos. He has managed to keep himself closed off from a committed relationship, He's seen how the committed relationship that his parents had has affected his dad after his mother’s death and Parker decides that he wants nothing to do with anything that would cause that...and he knows that all relationships end eventually. But then he sees the new hired guy. Micah is a bratty boy and that captures his attention, and Parker’s "inner Daddy" is demanding to "come out". Parker is desperately trying to get his father to want to live again, and Micah is dealing with his homophobic parents, so eventually emotions come crashing down. As they try to support each other, Micah realizes he’s fallen in love with Parker but also knowing how Parker feels about long-term relationships, Micah knows he has no choice but to walk away. Parker realizes his mistake in letting Micah go, and with a few well-meaning good friends, he knows he has to get Parker back.
I first "met" this author, Katheryn McIntyre, when several years ago I received two of her earlier books to read and review"...so when I saw this one on Hoopla, I was excited to reacquaint myself with her and read it. If you have never read books that have a kink theme or element in them, you probably should be aware that there are a few scenes here that might be considered "heavy kink" to the newbies, and like all aspects of any story, they may not be for everyone...so please check the warnings here and the content warnings in the book, but overall I considered the kink here to be fairly light and not too extreme...but again, that will depend on your level of endurance with the subject. I found the homophobic parents MUCH more bothersome than any of the kink scenes...at least you know the players in the kink scenes loved and accepted one another.
May 16, 2024
Micah & Parker
Rating: 3.6 ⭐
- Daddy Dom/Femme Sub
- Hurt/Comfort
- Cozy Kink
- Found Family
- Kink Awakening
- CNC & Impact Play
- IT Manager/Barista
- Lacey Things
- Size Difference
This was a fun read and I haven't read a Daddy Dom book yet, so this was new for me and comforting in a way. I really like how Parker was all dominance but would be a full-on caretaker before and after scenes. He was even caring in his own way during the scenes with subs. This is a hurt/comfort story for both men, who end up healing and growing with each other.
Now, the group at the coffee shop are very close like a family but they all play with each other. Parker has played/slept with all of their coworkers, so please keep that in mind before reading this. The shop has a play night for the employees once a week and everyone participates. Parker also teaches classes at the shop for people in the kink community, some private but mostly groups. During the book, the couple is monogamous but briefly discuss playing with others in the crew later on. Micah is never jealous of Parker with others during scenes, except for when they broke up for a wee bit, but he wanted all of Parker’s attention while he was playing. So, we're talking extremely intense eye contact at all times with these two that your pants will melt off! They would forget anything and anyone around them when they saw or touched each other. 🔥
Micah went to college in San Francisco but went back home to a small town in Nevada after school and has been miserable ever since. He has spent his whole life trying to earn affection or attention from his parents, that he never receives. He still holds onto false hope that maybe they will see him one of these days. One day he just says F it and leaves his town heading back to San Francisco and his best friend Pixie with no real plan but to get away and gain freedom in his life. Once he starts working at the coffee shop, he starts to blossom into his true self and finally gets to be as femme and bratty as he wants to be without judgements. He's always known about the kink community because of his best friend and how she free she is about her lifestyle and sexual encounters. Micah never dabbled in it but now that it's around him all the time he's more curious, especially about the insanely hot Daddy Parker and what he might like.
Parker for the most part loves his life and his lifestyle. He doesn't get all the fulfillment he needs because he guards his heart and doesn't do relationships anymore. His Daddy side doesn't get to come out as much as he would like but he can't let himself go there because of his fears of the future. After losing his mom a few years ago, his dad shutdown and is basically dying in front of his eyes. Parker is scared that loving someone like his father did could mean he would lose as well and turn into the same shell as his father. From the moment he laid eyes on Micah, he couldn't stop thinking about him but with the boy being vanilla (so they thought) he won't go there. Parker just can't turn his Daddy instincts off completely though and he looks out for Micah. Doesn't hurt that Micah is definitely a brat in need of a spanking, and if he was into kink then he would be Parkers kryptonite.
I like that everyone was accepting and patient with Micah as he learned more about the community. No one discouraged his questions, especially Parker who made sure to talk things through first and walk Micah through scenes before they did anything together. These two together were hot, no question, and couldn't keep their hands off each other. They quickly got under each other’s skin when they were not initially looking for a relationship. I respect the hell out of Micah for breaking things off once he realized that he loved Parker. He didn't try to change Parkers mind on his stance or push him in either direction. Micah laid it out how he was feeling and that he needed to leave because he broke their agreement. Now, they have to try and move on and neither knows what that is going to look like. They both hurt from the split but find their way back to each other after dealing with their demons and never let go again.
The side characters, that will eventually all get their own books, were great and so supportive of both characters. They were always blunt but never pushy about the decisions made or secrets kept by either man. The group is a loving found family that happens to get kinky with each other from time to time. We did get robbed of a shibari scene from Parker, he’s an expert and he never got to use that skill on Micah.
Content Warnings : Graphic sexual content between consenting adults; Mentions of suicidal ideation; Grief from loss of parent due to illness (off page); Homophobia from parent; Public kink scenes (F/X in background); Descriptive impact play scenes; Daddy kink without age play; Descriptive CNC scene; Restraints in use during scenes; Infractions by side character that started a scene with Micah
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes, just a few days apart
Cheating: No
Ages: Not given
Rating: 3.6 ⭐
- Daddy Dom/Femme Sub
- Hurt/Comfort
- Cozy Kink
- Found Family
- Kink Awakening
- CNC & Impact Play
- IT Manager/Barista
- Lacey Things
- Size Difference
This was a fun read and I haven't read a Daddy Dom book yet, so this was new for me and comforting in a way. I really like how Parker was all dominance but would be a full-on caretaker before and after scenes. He was even caring in his own way during the scenes with subs. This is a hurt/comfort story for both men, who end up healing and growing with each other.
Now, the group at the coffee shop are very close like a family but they all play with each other. Parker has played/slept with all of their coworkers, so please keep that in mind before reading this. The shop has a play night for the employees once a week and everyone participates. Parker also teaches classes at the shop for people in the kink community, some private but mostly groups. During the book, the couple is monogamous but briefly discuss playing with others in the crew later on. Micah is never jealous of Parker with others during scenes, except for when they broke up for a wee bit, but he wanted all of Parker’s attention while he was playing. So, we're talking extremely intense eye contact at all times with these two that your pants will melt off! They would forget anything and anyone around them when they saw or touched each other. 🔥
Micah went to college in San Francisco but went back home to a small town in Nevada after school and has been miserable ever since. He has spent his whole life trying to earn affection or attention from his parents, that he never receives. He still holds onto false hope that maybe they will see him one of these days. One day he just says F it and leaves his town heading back to San Francisco and his best friend Pixie with no real plan but to get away and gain freedom in his life. Once he starts working at the coffee shop, he starts to blossom into his true self and finally gets to be as femme and bratty as he wants to be without judgements. He's always known about the kink community because of his best friend and how she free she is about her lifestyle and sexual encounters. Micah never dabbled in it but now that it's around him all the time he's more curious, especially about the insanely hot Daddy Parker and what he might like.
Parker for the most part loves his life and his lifestyle. He doesn't get all the fulfillment he needs because he guards his heart and doesn't do relationships anymore. His Daddy side doesn't get to come out as much as he would like but he can't let himself go there because of his fears of the future. After losing his mom a few years ago, his dad shutdown and is basically dying in front of his eyes. Parker is scared that loving someone like his father did could mean he would lose as well and turn into the same shell as his father. From the moment he laid eyes on Micah, he couldn't stop thinking about him but with the boy being vanilla (so they thought) he won't go there. Parker just can't turn his Daddy instincts off completely though and he looks out for Micah. Doesn't hurt that Micah is definitely a brat in need of a spanking, and if he was into kink then he would be Parkers kryptonite.
"I'd much rather cuddle."
"Oh god, this is nauseating. Feelings and cuddles? What sort of scary Dom are you?"
"Sweetheart, this is what kink is all about."
I like that everyone was accepting and patient with Micah as he learned more about the community. No one discouraged his questions, especially Parker who made sure to talk things through first and walk Micah through scenes before they did anything together. These two together were hot, no question, and couldn't keep their hands off each other. They quickly got under each other’s skin when they were not initially looking for a relationship. I respect the hell out of Micah for breaking things off once he realized that he loved Parker. He didn't try to change Parkers mind on his stance or push him in either direction. Micah laid it out how he was feeling and that he needed to leave because he broke their agreement. Now, they have to try and move on and neither knows what that is going to look like. They both hurt from the split but find their way back to each other after dealing with their demons and never let go again.
"Someone's excited for this," Parker murmured.
"Don't flatter yourself. My c*ck gets hard from a stiff breeze."
The side characters, that will eventually all get their own books, were great and so supportive of both characters. They were always blunt but never pushy about the decisions made or secrets kept by either man. The group is a loving found family that happens to get kinky with each other from time to time. We did get robbed of a shibari scene from Parker, he’s an expert and he never got to use that skill on Micah.
Content Warnings : Graphic sexual content between consenting adults; Mentions of suicidal ideation; Grief from loss of parent due to illness (off page); Homophobia from parent; Public kink scenes (F/X in background); Descriptive impact play scenes; Daddy kink without age play; Descriptive CNC scene; Restraints in use during scenes; Infractions by side character that started a scene with Micah
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes, just a few days apart
Cheating: No
Ages: Not given
May 22, 2024
Rating: 5
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 3rd person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Main tropes: age gap, kink, hurt / comfort
Immersion Play was a great start to the Leather and Lattes series, and I had the best time with Micah and Parker!
I thoroughly enjoyed Micah and Parker’s story, and it had a great mix of self-discovery, hurt / comfort, kink and found family. There were some heavier topics present, and while it would have added some more angst and tension to take a deeper dive into those, I liked how the story was kept more on the sweet and lighthearted side instead.
Micah and Parker’s chemistry was fantastic and intense right from the start, and I loved seeing Micah finding his way into kink and explore things together with Parker. Their dynamic was entertaining to read, with Micah turning out to be a total brat and Parker really enjoying having a mouthy boy to “tame”. It was obvious from early on how drawn they both were to each other, and I loved the reactions Parker had when Micah called him Daddy.
Immersion Play was an entertaining and steamy read that I didn’t want to put down! The chemistry that Micah and Parker had was really something else and it was easy to be absorbed by their story. There were a lot of things I loved about this book, and I’m very excited to learn more about the kink café and its staff in the coming books!
-
Thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 3rd person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Main tropes: age gap, kink, hurt / comfort
Immersion Play was a great start to the Leather and Lattes series, and I had the best time with Micah and Parker!
I thoroughly enjoyed Micah and Parker’s story, and it had a great mix of self-discovery, hurt / comfort, kink and found family. There were some heavier topics present, and while it would have added some more angst and tension to take a deeper dive into those, I liked how the story was kept more on the sweet and lighthearted side instead.
Micah and Parker’s chemistry was fantastic and intense right from the start, and I loved seeing Micah finding his way into kink and explore things together with Parker. Their dynamic was entertaining to read, with Micah turning out to be a total brat and Parker really enjoying having a mouthy boy to “tame”. It was obvious from early on how drawn they both were to each other, and I loved the reactions Parker had when Micah called him Daddy.
Immersion Play was an entertaining and steamy read that I didn’t want to put down! The chemistry that Micah and Parker had was really something else and it was easy to be absorbed by their story. There were a lot of things I loved about this book, and I’m very excited to learn more about the kink café and its staff in the coming books!
-
Thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 21, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Katherine McIntyre is a new-to-me author, but I’m always looking for a new kink book, so I was quick to snap this one up. There are some heavier themes in this story, so make sure to check the tags here and the content warnings, but the overall feeling of the book is pretty light. The kink aspect and types of play Parker and Micah engage in aren’t too extreme.
The narration style, third-person alternating POVs, worked really well for the story and allowed the reader to get to know both MCs well. The chemistry between them is off the charts, and I was rooting for their love from the start.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Katherine McIntyre is a new-to-me author, but I’m always looking for a new kink book, so I was quick to snap this one up. There are some heavier themes in this story, so make sure to check the tags here and the content warnings, but the overall feeling of the book is pretty light. The kink aspect and types of play Parker and Micah engage in aren’t too extreme.
The narration style, third-person alternating POVs, worked really well for the story and allowed the reader to get to know both MCs well. The chemistry between them is off the charts, and I was rooting for their love from the start.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
May 13, 2024
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Immersion Play is the start of a new Queer kinky romance series by Katherine McIntyre called Leather and Lattes.
Micah ran away from his small home town when he realizes he'll never please his parents and will always have to hide parts of himself in the closet. He runs to his college best friend who get shim a job at Whipped, a queer and kinky coffee shop. He always saw himself as vanilla but after meeting Parker he becomes curious. Micah begins to live life genuinely and realizes his a bratty sub which happens to be Daddy Dom Parkers kryptonite. But will Parker left his fear of future loss ruin a future with Micah?
The way he loomed over Micah flipped buttons he didn’t know he had, but his curiosity had been building since he started working for Whipped.
Damn it, I love a bratty sub just as much as I love a Daddy Dom and the two together is my cat nip. I loved watch Micah find acceptance in the people at Whipped, and seeing him embrace his femme and bratty self. Parker's grief over the loss of his mom and fear of losing his father broke my heart. Micah and Parker's relationship is hurt/comfort for both of them , they help each other clear their minds and find peace for a while. Their intimacy starts of lightly kinky with spanking and progresses to toys and then jumps to con non con play when Micah needs it to. The steam is off the charts but also the communication and after care with superbly done.
“Oh god, this is nauseating. Feelings shares and cuddles? What sort of scary Dom are you?” “Sweetheart, this is what kink is all about.”
While the story has a whole lot of steam it also has the found family and emotion that the author always includes him her stories #feels. Low drama with a third act breakup that's over quickly, and a cameo at the coffee shop from friendly faces from another of the author's books.
Overall, Immersion Play by Katherine McIntyre is an mm romance based in a queer and kink friendly coffee shop. Filled with emotion, found family, a bratty sub, a Daddy Dom, kink exploration, cuddles, aftercare, and a happy ending.
Favorite Quotes:
Immersion Play is the start of a new Queer kinky romance series by Katherine McIntyre called Leather and Lattes.
Micah ran away from his small home town when he realizes he'll never please his parents and will always have to hide parts of himself in the closet. He runs to his college best friend who get shim a job at Whipped, a queer and kinky coffee shop. He always saw himself as vanilla but after meeting Parker he becomes curious. Micah begins to live life genuinely and realizes his a bratty sub which happens to be Daddy Dom Parkers kryptonite. But will Parker left his fear of future loss ruin a future with Micah?
The way he loomed over Micah flipped buttons he didn’t know he had, but his curiosity had been building since he started working for Whipped.
Damn it, I love a bratty sub just as much as I love a Daddy Dom and the two together is my cat nip. I loved watch Micah find acceptance in the people at Whipped, and seeing him embrace his femme and bratty self. Parker's grief over the loss of his mom and fear of losing his father broke my heart. Micah and Parker's relationship is hurt/comfort for both of them , they help each other clear their minds and find peace for a while. Their intimacy starts of lightly kinky with spanking and progresses to toys and then jumps to con non con play when Micah needs it to. The steam is off the charts but also the communication and after care with superbly done.
“Oh god, this is nauseating. Feelings shares and cuddles? What sort of scary Dom are you?” “Sweetheart, this is what kink is all about.”
While the story has a whole lot of steam it also has the found family and emotion that the author always includes him her stories #feels. Low drama with a third act breakup that's over quickly, and a cameo at the coffee shop from friendly faces from another of the author's books.
Overall, Immersion Play by Katherine McIntyre is an mm romance based in a queer and kink friendly coffee shop. Filled with emotion, found family, a bratty sub, a Daddy Dom, kink exploration, cuddles, aftercare, and a happy ending.
Favorite Quotes:
November 4, 2025
audio update: Samuel Mann was made to be the narrator of this series. He hits each of these unique characters in a uniquely magical way. Parker had a deep cadence that melts the brain, Micah that right amount of sass to shine, along with the rest of the whipped ensemble. never needing to question who is speaking. Brilliant work, hope to see more of his work in the future.
Welcome to leather and lattes, and oh boy,
get ready for a deeper kinkier side to Katherine McIntyre writing. When entering the kink scene, remember it's all about consent, and if both parties are not comfortable, this will not work. The kink rep is top notch, the found family aspect is so beautiful that these people mean so much to each other. From first interaction at Whipped, these two men own each other. They just have to work past their grief and learn to accept life as it is to be able to get the love they deserve.
The emotions are palpable. You feel all their pain, the love the group shares for one another. It's just that perfect balance of hot af fun, along with pure emotion.
If book 1 starts this brilliant, I can not wait to see what's next in this universe.
Welcome to leather and lattes, and oh boy,
get ready for a deeper kinkier side to Katherine McIntyre writing. When entering the kink scene, remember it's all about consent, and if both parties are not comfortable, this will not work. The kink rep is top notch, the found family aspect is so beautiful that these people mean so much to each other. From first interaction at Whipped, these two men own each other. They just have to work past their grief and learn to accept life as it is to be able to get the love they deserve.
The emotions are palpable. You feel all their pain, the love the group shares for one another. It's just that perfect balance of hot af fun, along with pure emotion.
If book 1 starts this brilliant, I can not wait to see what's next in this universe.
May 22, 2024
3.75
This was so freaking HAWT! Omg this was good. Please watch your triggers with this. I loved the chemistry with these two. They were absolutely delish together. I loved the writing, It had a hold of me for the entire book. I love the D/b relationship. I love the bratty boy. I adored the found family. Loved that the friends were there fore each other. This didn’t get a 5 for 2 reasons. 1. Where are the brown people. I find it interesting that this eclectic group didn’t have friends that were different races. That’s odd. It’s 2024. I shouldn’t have to point this out. Unless you are Tim Burtoning us there should be people of different races in these groups. The 2nd reason is because we didn’t get to really see the connection they had outside of the bed room. So the I love yous didn’t really connect to me. Sure they had great chemistry in the bed and with their kinks, but what about outside of that. They barely talked about their issues with each other. So I wish we had more of that. Overall really yummy book. Wonder who’s next.
This was so freaking HAWT! Omg this was good. Please watch your triggers with this. I loved the chemistry with these two. They were absolutely delish together. I loved the writing, It had a hold of me for the entire book. I love the D/b relationship. I love the bratty boy. I adored the found family. Loved that the friends were there fore each other. This didn’t get a 5 for 2 reasons. 1. Where are the brown people. I find it interesting that this eclectic group didn’t have friends that were different races. That’s odd. It’s 2024. I shouldn’t have to point this out. Unless you are Tim Burtoning us there should be people of different races in these groups. The 2nd reason is because we didn’t get to really see the connection they had outside of the bed room. So the I love yous didn’t really connect to me. Sure they had great chemistry in the bed and with their kinks, but what about outside of that. They barely talked about their issues with each other. So I wish we had more of that. Overall really yummy book. Wonder who’s next.
October 27, 2024
*received ARC*
Another great addition to this wonderful world of kink and found family in San Francisco.
I will not lie, I had trouble getting into the book at the beginning. I was interested, but the way Micah was introduced was okay and I did not feel him initially. Parker caught my interest but I could not see them together until later that was all I could see. The relationship development was great and I loved how you get a good idea of the kink between the two but also these two falling in love while learning about each other. I think the author does so well with putting kink and emotions into writing.
This family is very unique and I cannot wait for the rest of the books because I am so intrigued by the future of the cafe. I hope we see more of the other characters from Dungeons and Dating as well. I think the family in this book is unique and they are all so understanding of each other which I love to see. I hope we see so much more in the future.
Another great addition to this wonderful world of kink and found family in San Francisco.
I will not lie, I had trouble getting into the book at the beginning. I was interested, but the way Micah was introduced was okay and I did not feel him initially. Parker caught my interest but I could not see them together until later that was all I could see. The relationship development was great and I loved how you get a good idea of the kink between the two but also these two falling in love while learning about each other. I think the author does so well with putting kink and emotions into writing.
This family is very unique and I cannot wait for the rest of the books because I am so intrigued by the future of the cafe. I hope we see more of the other characters from Dungeons and Dating as well. I think the family in this book is unique and they are all so understanding of each other which I love to see. I hope we see so much more in the future.
May 23, 2024
I went into this fully excited from the blurb alone. The thought of a cozy little book with kink was a real winner for me. And, add on a push and pull relationship – I was a goner. But, funny enough, my favorite part of this book was the found family aspect. I found it extremely sweet and was more focused during those moments. The kink and even romance took a back burner for me. I think this was a good start to a series that many can enjoy – but personally it wasn’t for me.
July 2, 2024
To read a full review check it out here.
Kinky and sweet. A wonderful combination and not one that I have seen with CNC and rimming before. Can't wait for Meg's book. I am quite impatient.
Kinky and sweet. A wonderful combination and not one that I have seen with CNC and rimming before. Can't wait for Meg's book. I am quite impatient.
March 28, 2025
3.5! Torn between the rounding up or down but I’m feeling nice today lol I loved the whole found family aspect of the cafe and how everyone was truly there for each other. I was interested in the sort of blurred lines of physical intimacy between everyone and how it all worked for everyone. I kind of just wanted a bit…more? from Parker and Micah. They had some banter and there was physical attraction for sure but I don’t know that I was 100% sold on their feelings.
July 8, 2024
Rtc.
5 "Whipped"stars. What a refreshing book... So sweet, so kinky, so cozy, so steamy.... The perfect balance, tbh, for a MM romance.
5 "Whipped"stars. What a refreshing book... So sweet, so kinky, so cozy, so steamy.... The perfect balance, tbh, for a MM romance.
June 19, 2025
I received an advance copy and this is my honest review.
5*
I love these characters, the kink cafe, and the found family. Their personal struggles feel authentic and the character growth is so rewarding. Micah’s homophobic family situation is still all too frustratingly common today. His vulnerability paired with his strength and sass make him a force of nature. Not only that, Micah’s stubborn refusal to give up lights every scene with Parker on fire. Good grief. 🔥🥵 Brat + brat taming, stir in caretaking for an awesome combination. More of THAT please!
I definitely feel for Parker and his dad, so defeated by the death of his mother. Grief is a hell of a thing, and that kind of wasting away from loss is real. ❤️🩹 The Whipped crew together for an evening to comfort Parker had me tearing up. What a simple, powerful moment of love.
My only quibble is . Plot development in the book otherwise felt very organic and natural.
“Cozy kink” might be a new obsession, thanks Katherine McIntyre! 😆
5*
I love these characters, the kink cafe, and the found family. Their personal struggles feel authentic and the character growth is so rewarding. Micah’s homophobic family situation is still all too frustratingly common today. His vulnerability paired with his strength and sass make him a force of nature. Not only that, Micah’s stubborn refusal to give up lights every scene with Parker on fire. Good grief. 🔥🥵 Brat + brat taming, stir in caretaking for an awesome combination. More of THAT please!
I definitely feel for Parker and his dad, so defeated by the death of his mother. Grief is a hell of a thing, and that kind of wasting away from loss is real. ❤️🩹 The Whipped crew together for an evening to comfort Parker had me tearing up. What a simple, powerful moment of love.
My only quibble is . Plot development in the book otherwise felt very organic and natural.
“Cozy kink” might be a new obsession, thanks Katherine McIntyre! 😆
May 19, 2024
Wow, what a start to a new series from Katherine McIntyre!! A spin off from the Dungeons and Dating series takes us to Whipped, a local kink cafe that gives everyone a safe space. **please read the trigger warnings for this book as their is talk of suicide ideation and homophobia from parents**
Parker and Micah's story has a strong hurt/comfort aspect to it that hit home for me when there is talk of depression for Parker's father and when Micah was back living in his hometown, something he had to move from to save himself. The found family feel at Whipped is one of my favourite things about this book. You can tell from the connection that the whole group shares just how much they mean to each other and that their health and happiness is important. I'm looking forward to meeting them all in more detail and they were all so great at welcoming Micah with open arms.
The attraction between Michah and Parker doesn't take long to ignite but Parker is held back from more after seeing what has become of his father after the death of his mother three years ago. What he didn't count on, though, is just how magnetic Micah is. Physically, they seem to be a perfect match, even with Micah new to the kink scene, and he also has a fabulously bratty side that draws Parker like a moth to a flame.
An intensely hot chemistry shared between the MC's makes for a fantastic read that I highly recommend. I cannot wait for more from this series and the great characters we've met.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Parker and Micah's story has a strong hurt/comfort aspect to it that hit home for me when there is talk of depression for Parker's father and when Micah was back living in his hometown, something he had to move from to save himself. The found family feel at Whipped is one of my favourite things about this book. You can tell from the connection that the whole group shares just how much they mean to each other and that their health and happiness is important. I'm looking forward to meeting them all in more detail and they were all so great at welcoming Micah with open arms.
The attraction between Michah and Parker doesn't take long to ignite but Parker is held back from more after seeing what has become of his father after the death of his mother three years ago. What he didn't count on, though, is just how magnetic Micah is. Physically, they seem to be a perfect match, even with Micah new to the kink scene, and he also has a fabulously bratty side that draws Parker like a moth to a flame.
An intensely hot chemistry shared between the MC's makes for a fantastic read that I highly recommend. I cannot wait for more from this series and the great characters we've met.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
May 23, 2024
Here for this cast of characters.
Not here for the mechanics, but when am I ever? I’m a snob (or so I’ve been told) so this shouldn’t be new business.
There were some rough bits, some inconsistency, and I don’t know if I’m just having one of those “I’m old and out-of-touch” moments I tend to fall into rather frequently or what, but I definitely got Soft Dom (and very little Daddy Dom) energy from Parker. It’s probably just me, so do with that what you will I guess.
I loved the setting, I loved the story, I wish I would’ve gotten to the D & D series first, but my smooth brain has been fixated on as little angst as possible for a while now… basically, aside from some things here and there (y’all could’ve told me about the whole spit thing before I got blindsided) that weren’t it for me, I loved it.
4.25/5. Seriously, out of all of the things I thought I wouldn’t be able to handle, it was spit that knocked me down for the count. Idk why I am the way that I am. I can’t explain.
Not here for the mechanics, but when am I ever? I’m a snob (or so I’ve been told) so this shouldn’t be new business.
There were some rough bits, some inconsistency, and I don’t know if I’m just having one of those “I’m old and out-of-touch” moments I tend to fall into rather frequently or what, but I definitely got Soft Dom (and very little Daddy Dom) energy from Parker. It’s probably just me, so do with that what you will I guess.
I loved the setting, I loved the story, I wish I would’ve gotten to the D & D series first, but my smooth brain has been fixated on as little angst as possible for a while now… basically, aside from some things here and there (y’all could’ve told me about the whole spit thing before I got blindsided) that weren’t it for me, I loved it.
4.25/5. Seriously, out of all of the things I thought I wouldn’t be able to handle, it was spit that knocked me down for the count. Idk why I am the way that I am. I can’t explain.
May 5, 2024
Micah gets a barista job at a coffee shop with a side of kink. Parker works as an IT Manager but is also a Dom that teaches classes part time. He instantly wants Micah and thinks he could be a "brat" sub. There is bondage, CNC and impact play but also deep tenderness, aftercare and caring as Parker's Daddy Dom comes out to play. It is about two broken men who don't think they want or need a relationship but are meant to be together. I loved Parker and Micah with their odd circle of oversharing friends and their need to explore each other's limits. I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Read
May 22, 2024Immersion Play takes the cozy kink that we've seen woven through previous Katherine McIntyre stories and puts it center stage in this steamy story that combines emotions, kink and real world problems into a craveable narrative that kept me hooked from beginning to end. I love that this book sets the stage for more of what we will see at Whipped - found family, cozy kink and more HEAs! I can't wait to see what happens next.
Read
April 7, 2024beyond grateful for the arc - thank you! ❤️
but… i DNF’d at 70% ☹️
so i’m not going to rate this book! i didn’t enjoy it because of personal preferences, and although i usually rate based on enjoyment, i don’t think that’s fair for an arc. i requested this because i love daddy kink and coffee, and it definitely delivered there. 🤣
positives:
• daddy kink
• coffee shop setting
• brat tamer
• adorable fem MC
• thick thighs 😻
negatives (my preferences):
• dom MC has hooked up with most of his friend group
• a lot of grief / death of a parent stuff
• the reason for dom MC’s commitment issues
• everyone pressuring sub MC to come to play nights
but… i DNF’d at 70% ☹️
so i’m not going to rate this book! i didn’t enjoy it because of personal preferences, and although i usually rate based on enjoyment, i don’t think that’s fair for an arc. i requested this because i love daddy kink and coffee, and it definitely delivered there. 🤣
positives:
• daddy kink
• coffee shop setting
• brat tamer
• adorable fem MC
• thick thighs 😻
negatives (my preferences):
• dom MC has hooked up with most of his friend group
• a lot of grief / death of a parent stuff
• the reason for dom MC’s commitment issues
• everyone pressuring sub MC to come to play nights
dnf
March 22, 2025Maybe I’ll come back to this and it’s just not what I want right now, but something about it just bored me and wasn’t holding my attention. I do feel like the characters had great chemistry, but someone once said life is too short to read books you’re not enjoying, and I’m going to invoke that motto here.
July 25, 2025
So happy I found this series. I love the idea of a kink friendly cafe. It has all the found family and hurt/comfort vibes that I adore. And those kink scenes? So good. And I thought it was all balanced so perfectly. I honestly wasn’t ready for this book to end. 💚💚💚
April 23, 2024
Oh my goodness, I went into this ready for a good story and ended up with an amazing one! I could not put it down once I started!
Micah has always considered himself “vanilla,” and after leaving Genoa in the night, he finds himself back in San Francisco, where he attended college, and is applying for a barista position at a kink cafe. He’s running from the hurt that his family has left him with and wants to start over as the person his parents had been suppressing.
Parker is what people call a “Daddy Dom” and anyone can see it in the way he wants to take care of others, in a scene or outside of one. He’s also hiding behind the hurt that was left from the loss of a parent that led to him essentially losing both parents. His found family at Whipped supports him and knows how to help him.
Then Micah and Parker meet each other at Whipped on the day of Micah’s interview. The chemistry between them was instant. But Parker doesn’t want to have his heart shattered like his father’s so he won’t do serious relationships. Micah has never explored the kink scene, but with Parker he is definitely willing. Even though they both say it’s a fling, we all know how those stories go.
This story was an amazing hurt/comfort and I loved seeing Micah become the person that was stifled by his parents. The family at Whipped also makes this story more enjoyable as they are all hilarious and their personalities work so well together. I don’t read a whole lot of books with kink or FF, but I really enjoyed this one. I’m actually interested in reading the next story which will be FF because of how much I fell in love with the people at Whipped. I definitely recommend this book and hope others enjoy it as much as I did!
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
Micah has always considered himself “vanilla,” and after leaving Genoa in the night, he finds himself back in San Francisco, where he attended college, and is applying for a barista position at a kink cafe. He’s running from the hurt that his family has left him with and wants to start over as the person his parents had been suppressing.
Parker is what people call a “Daddy Dom” and anyone can see it in the way he wants to take care of others, in a scene or outside of one. He’s also hiding behind the hurt that was left from the loss of a parent that led to him essentially losing both parents. His found family at Whipped supports him and knows how to help him.
Then Micah and Parker meet each other at Whipped on the day of Micah’s interview. The chemistry between them was instant. But Parker doesn’t want to have his heart shattered like his father’s so he won’t do serious relationships. Micah has never explored the kink scene, but with Parker he is definitely willing. Even though they both say it’s a fling, we all know how those stories go.
This story was an amazing hurt/comfort and I loved seeing Micah become the person that was stifled by his parents. The family at Whipped also makes this story more enjoyable as they are all hilarious and their personalities work so well together. I don’t read a whole lot of books with kink or FF, but I really enjoyed this one. I’m actually interested in reading the next story which will be FF because of how much I fell in love with the people at Whipped. I definitely recommend this book and hope others enjoy it as much as I did!
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
May 21, 2024
Parker and Micah were both so great, I loved how genuine they were with each other and their friends. The spice was amazing and the whole setting Whipped friend group is goals. 😂
March 30, 2024
Oh, boy.
This is one hell of a HOT story!
If You like BDSM MM books this one is perfect for You!
I didn't know I was into Daddy kink, but I loved chemistry between Parker and Micah. Their relationship changed during the story and it was amazing to see it. Another thing I learnt about me is that i am totally into BDSM parties (at least in books).
This was a new author to me and I didn't know what to expect but I was in need for some good BDSM story so I dived right into it. It is a really well written, fast paced, SCORCHING HOT book. It is low angst hurt to comfort story featuring play partners-to-lovers. There's A LOT of sex scenes, but also lots of feeling involved so it is difficult to put it down. I kept my fingers crossed for both MCs to find their HEA :)
This is an awesome story and I will definitely read next books in this series as well as other books by this author.
* I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review. *
This is one hell of a HOT story!
If You like BDSM MM books this one is perfect for You!
I didn't know I was into Daddy kink, but I loved chemistry between Parker and Micah. Their relationship changed during the story and it was amazing to see it. Another thing I learnt about me is that i am totally into BDSM parties (at least in books).
This was a new author to me and I didn't know what to expect but I was in need for some good BDSM story so I dived right into it. It is a really well written, fast paced, SCORCHING HOT book. It is low angst hurt to comfort story featuring play partners-to-lovers. There's A LOT of sex scenes, but also lots of feeling involved so it is difficult to put it down. I kept my fingers crossed for both MCs to find their HEA :)
This is an awesome story and I will definitely read next books in this series as well as other books by this author.
* I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review. *
did-not-finish
July 2, 2024Did not gel with the writing style. Sorry, making a book sounds more "gruff" by adding the "f-word" doesn't work. And calling a Dom a "hottie dom" feels plain disresepctful.
Also the author uses the words "but" and "however" in place of "and" which is incorrect and confusing.
Also the author uses the words "but" and "however" in place of "and" which is incorrect and confusing.
July 4, 2024
Read in a single sitting.
I don't know how to explain how hard this book hit me, how it moved me, how important and deeply moving it is to me that it exists.
Note: if you're the author, please check out the final paragraph of this review, after the second edit.
I love this book. I've got a feeling I'm going to adore this whole series. And re-read it a shit ton lol. And I need to check out more by Katherine because holy fuck.
Both the poly and kink rep are *amazing* and that always hits me so fucking hard and I'm so deeply grateful for it. And the casual, nonchalant trans and nonbinary rep actually breaks my trans nonbinary heart.
Jesus fucking christ this means *so much* to me I can't even explain it.
Thank you. So damn much.
Also, I gotta show this to my kinky friend group/group of community organizers.
Following part is depressing as fuck, fair warning. I also talk some about institutional violence, fascism and the world.
We're just now barely daring to dream of getting our own place in a world were buying a flogger from our small business owner friend is completely unaffordable to most of us, we're having to cut our personal budgets on food and fascism is growing fast along with police and state violence from our extremely far-right president that is literally starving people to death to get the on paper numbers to say inflation is getting lower. Not to mention illegal random arrests at protests by unidentified hidden police officers including people who weren't even at the protest and were simply around the area and sending them to prison for a long ass time without even going through a judge once nor having the mandatory court order, literally torturing them, particularly the queer people and women.
Soooo. Kinda far-fetched dream there. Particularly for a bunch of mentally ill and neurodivergent and disabled people that run out of spoons pretty often and more so considering the state of the community, country and world.
At the same time, I think this is when we need spaces like this the most and I'm so fucking grateful we're managing to organise some. We're starting more regular munches and I'm so excited.
Current slightly less far fetched dream here, one of us is an engineer, a friend is an all around trades-person and specializes in metal working including for kink equipment and has made things like a prayer bench for himself (yes, for kink purposes). We've made wood + faux leather spanking benches. We're hoping to find good, safe designs and make a st. Andrew's cross which we've been dreaming of for years. Oooh and we're planning on making a pillory. That's going to be fun.
Our community is also growing. And fool of newbies. The feedback about feeling safe and welcomed and finally at home breaks my heart constantly because I know the feeling to my very bones. Another reason for how hard this book hit.
Coming back to the topic at hand slightly, combining the space we might rent for a dungeon and/or workshop spaces, plus activism and organising with a cafe sounds like an amazing idea to help sustain it economically and it just gave me a shot of hope straight to the heart. Feels a little clearer, the picture a little sharper in my mind. At least for a little while.
Edit: country I'm referring to is Argentina
Edit #2: TW self-harm
So I wanted to say thank you for that, too. For the hope, and the joy, and the representation, and the ability to breathe a little easier at least for a little while.
I don't know how to explain how hard this book hit me, how it moved me, how important and deeply moving it is to me that it exists.
Note: if you're the author, please check out the final paragraph of this review, after the second edit.
I love this book. I've got a feeling I'm going to adore this whole series. And re-read it a shit ton lol. And I need to check out more by Katherine because holy fuck.
Both the poly and kink rep are *amazing* and that always hits me so fucking hard and I'm so deeply grateful for it. And the casual, nonchalant trans and nonbinary rep actually breaks my trans nonbinary heart.
Jesus fucking christ this means *so much* to me I can't even explain it.
Thank you. So damn much.
Also, I gotta show this to my kinky friend group/group of community organizers.
Following part is depressing as fuck, fair warning. I also talk some about institutional violence, fascism and the world.
We're just now barely daring to dream of getting our own place in a world were buying a flogger from our small business owner friend is completely unaffordable to most of us, we're having to cut our personal budgets on food and fascism is growing fast along with police and state violence from our extremely far-right president that is literally starving people to death to get the on paper numbers to say inflation is getting lower. Not to mention illegal random arrests at protests by unidentified hidden police officers including people who weren't even at the protest and were simply around the area and sending them to prison for a long ass time without even going through a judge once nor having the mandatory court order, literally torturing them, particularly the queer people and women.
Soooo. Kinda far-fetched dream there. Particularly for a bunch of mentally ill and neurodivergent and disabled people that run out of spoons pretty often and more so considering the state of the community, country and world.
At the same time, I think this is when we need spaces like this the most and I'm so fucking grateful we're managing to organise some. We're starting more regular munches and I'm so excited.
Current slightly less far fetched dream here, one of us is an engineer, a friend is an all around trades-person and specializes in metal working including for kink equipment and has made things like a prayer bench for himself (yes, for kink purposes). We've made wood + faux leather spanking benches. We're hoping to find good, safe designs and make a st. Andrew's cross which we've been dreaming of for years. Oooh and we're planning on making a pillory. That's going to be fun.
Our community is also growing. And fool of newbies. The feedback about feeling safe and welcomed and finally at home breaks my heart constantly because I know the feeling to my very bones. Another reason for how hard this book hit.
Coming back to the topic at hand slightly, combining the space we might rent for a dungeon and/or workshop spaces, plus activism and organising with a cafe sounds like an amazing idea to help sustain it economically and it just gave me a shot of hope straight to the heart. Feels a little clearer, the picture a little sharper in my mind. At least for a little while.
Edit: country I'm referring to is Argentina
Edit #2: TW self-harm
So I wanted to say thank you for that, too. For the hope, and the joy, and the representation, and the ability to breathe a little easier at least for a little while.
May 16, 2024
Immersion Play by Katherine McIntyre is the first book in her Leather and Lattes series and includes cozy kink. It is the story of two men who have gone through heartbreak and are somewhat averse to finding love because they think they are broken. But that all changes when they meet each other. Micah Abrams fled to San Francisco when he couldn’t stand not being his authentic self any more. He was in a job he didn’t like and he could never live up to his parents’ expectations. He had gone to college in San Francisco and his best friend Pixie lived there and got him a job interview at Whipped which catered to the kink community with a coffee shop upstairs and dungeon downstairs. He also decided to live at her apartment with her. He got the job as he had been a barista before but was very vanilla. The people who worked at Whipped were all doms and subs and were a very close family. It didn’t take Micah long to figure out he wanted to play and learn as much as he could about what kink was. Parker Edwards managed and IT crew during the day and was a dom at Whipped who did a lot of demonstrations there at night and was a part of that family. He had Daddy dom tendencies as he was gentle and protective. His mother had died 3 years ago and his dad had become a shell of a man, never venturing out and barely talking to Parker. Yet Parker loved him and wouldn’t stop going to see him, even though it was very frustrating and caused him to spiral into a depression. Relying on Meg, the owner, and the others at Whipped helped him cope especially when he could do scenes. Because of seeing what her death did to his father he vowed that he would never get into a lasting relationship because he was afraid if something happened he would become like his father. One night he walked into Whipped and Micah was working behind the coffee bar. They were infatuated on sight with each other but Micah had a lot to learn. It took him 2 weeks before he decided that he wanted to join the others at their Play Night. Once he did he knew he wasn’t vanilla and never looked back, especially because of the way Parker made him feel when they played. And play they did, exploring all kinds of kinks and having many very hot love scenes. The more they were together they more fell for each other, especially as they found what they needed when they had contact with their families. They both tried to not fall in love but it was inevitable and when Parker told Micah he couldn’t commit to him fully they broke up. This wrecked both of them and after talking with their friends Parker knew he had made a mistake and needed to fix things with his father and then with Micah and he did so in several spectacular scenes which led to their happy ending. This was an interesting book for me as I don’t usually enjoy stories that focus on kink but Ms. McIntyre has been a favorite author so I wanted to try it. It is full of hurt/comfort for both Micah and Parker and their friends are with them every step of the way. Micah was bratty, which Parker loved, and also interested in finding out about kink and how it could help him find release from his problems. Parker was so kind and caring and seemed to know exactly what Parker needed and knew when he made a mistake with him and set out to fix it. The kink community was strong and helped them when they had problems. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like to see kink in your stories, hot love scenes, and two men who have struggled with family problems and are able to find a home together.
May 24, 2024
4.5⭐️
Oh, I LOVED Micah and Parker. Their chemistry is off the charts, and the comfort they offer each other as they slip under each other’s walls, which they reluctantly accept, is so warm. Their feelings grow quickly, but the intensity between them makes the speed of their relationship feel inevitable. Both men are closed off to emotional connection but find cracks in the walls they put up.
Micah spent his life trying to earn his parents’ love by fitting into any box he could until he couldn’t bear it anymore. Subconsciously he knows his parents don’t love him, but he can’t help but hope they one day accept *him*—accept who he actually is, not the cardboard cutout they want. Brats can be hit or miss for me, but Micah is the perfect kind for me. He’s snarky and sassy but also funny—being difficult isn’t his entire personality. His inclination to push back is simply a part of who he is, a part he also had to hide bc when he allowed some of his true self out, others made him feel like he was too much.
It’s not too much for Parker; he finds all of Micah breathtaking and challenging. He likes his prickliness, and is honored that Micah slowly opens up to him (as much as he fears it). Watching his grieving father slowly kill himself via depression and apathy is also killing Parker. He lost both parents when he his mother died and hasn’t gotten to properly grieve bc he’s been grieving his living parent for years. Despite his need for a committed partner he can shower with affection and take care of, he’s sworn off relationships. He convinced he’s a coward but is terrified of being his father. He’s afraid of how quickly he’s connected to Micah but can’t stay away.
Micah is dealing with his own form of grief too. His parents’ distant, conditional “love” caused him to push is true self down so far it felt like he was dying. To him, running away from the life he tried to live for his parents is an act to save his life. When he decided to abandon that life, he had to face the lack of love from his parents. He’s grieving that small ember of hope that they at least cared. He feels safe with Parker almost immediately, and Parker can’t resist the pull to shield Micah and give him what he needs.
The element I loved most about the Dungeons and Dating series is the family the crew created, and the one at Whipped is just as strong and embracing. The characters are fun and some have big personalities, with café owner Meg being the grounding hand of the group. She’s no-nonsense but caring, perceptive and solid. How quickly she sees and accepts what Micah’s forced to hide loosens something in him. His coworkers make him feel at home—free to be himself and seen by people who care for him. The fact that they share intimacy in all ways, creates an added element to the group’s closeness and vulnerability. This is such a great opener to the series. I’ll probably fall in love with this found family like I did with the D & D series, and I can’t wait.
Oh, I LOVED Micah and Parker. Their chemistry is off the charts, and the comfort they offer each other as they slip under each other’s walls, which they reluctantly accept, is so warm. Their feelings grow quickly, but the intensity between them makes the speed of their relationship feel inevitable. Both men are closed off to emotional connection but find cracks in the walls they put up.
Micah spent his life trying to earn his parents’ love by fitting into any box he could until he couldn’t bear it anymore. Subconsciously he knows his parents don’t love him, but he can’t help but hope they one day accept *him*—accept who he actually is, not the cardboard cutout they want. Brats can be hit or miss for me, but Micah is the perfect kind for me. He’s snarky and sassy but also funny—being difficult isn’t his entire personality. His inclination to push back is simply a part of who he is, a part he also had to hide bc when he allowed some of his true self out, others made him feel like he was too much.
It’s not too much for Parker; he finds all of Micah breathtaking and challenging. He likes his prickliness, and is honored that Micah slowly opens up to him (as much as he fears it). Watching his grieving father slowly kill himself via depression and apathy is also killing Parker. He lost both parents when he his mother died and hasn’t gotten to properly grieve bc he’s been grieving his living parent for years. Despite his need for a committed partner he can shower with affection and take care of, he’s sworn off relationships. He convinced he’s a coward but is terrified of being his father. He’s afraid of how quickly he’s connected to Micah but can’t stay away.
Micah is dealing with his own form of grief too. His parents’ distant, conditional “love” caused him to push is true self down so far it felt like he was dying. To him, running away from the life he tried to live for his parents is an act to save his life. When he decided to abandon that life, he had to face the lack of love from his parents. He’s grieving that small ember of hope that they at least cared. He feels safe with Parker almost immediately, and Parker can’t resist the pull to shield Micah and give him what he needs.
The element I loved most about the Dungeons and Dating series is the family the crew created, and the one at Whipped is just as strong and embracing. The characters are fun and some have big personalities, with café owner Meg being the grounding hand of the group. She’s no-nonsense but caring, perceptive and solid. How quickly she sees and accepts what Micah’s forced to hide loosens something in him. His coworkers make him feel at home—free to be himself and seen by people who care for him. The fact that they share intimacy in all ways, creates an added element to the group’s closeness and vulnerability. This is such a great opener to the series. I’ll probably fall in love with this found family like I did with the D & D series, and I can’t wait.
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