Please note, I read this as part of the Bound & Freed Boxed Set.
This was a very interesting and captivating novel. I’m still thinking about it days later.
The author develops some amazingly vivid scenes throughout this novel. These scenes weren’t necessarily even erotically based (although those were definitely there as well). There was mystery, suspense, heartbreak, and relationship drama galore. She keeps the novel intense without it becoming vulgar or garish. There is a stark contrast between the prayers to God and the subject matter that heightens this intensity. I really appreciate how the author approaches the world of BDSM. She does so with tact and class. She also approaches it in such a manner that you realise how much there is to this world, and what it really means to those there. She introduces you to the scene in a positive manner that you can’t help but be captivated by. She explains some terms and practices common to the scene so that unfamiliar readers can get into the story. She does so very tactfully and without breaking the overall flow of the story.
This story was very intriguingly written, even if the writing did become a little disjointed at times. Amazingly enough, this added to the mystique of the novel. There are times when the author uses the same phrases and thoughts repeatedly. Although disconcerting at the beginning it really adds to the character development. The shortened sentences and small issues with grammar also become superfluous. In most other works I’d say that the novel needs to be re-edited. In this one, it adds so much to the story that I was very surprised.
I enjoyed how the author develops her characters. She doesn’t dump a pile of information on her readers all at once. Rather, she gives small glimpses into the past to provide understanding into the present and the future. It gives insight into the characters and more depth to the story. The large variety of character types who interact with each other gives a very unique perspective of the world as a whole, as well as the world of BDSM. She combines this world with real and heart wrenching relationship issues that make you feel for and want to help out these brilliant characters.
I also really appreciate the symbolism behind the title of this boxed set. Not only does it apply to the subject matter at hand, but also to more than one character. That’s all I’ll say about this. Read the novels and you’ll find out.
My overall impression? Whether you’re a Dom, a Sub, or neither, this series makes you re-evaluate what’s important in your life.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.