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Perfect Taboo #6

The Sadist and the Brat

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FROM EXCITING ROMANCE AUTHOR HANNAH MURRAY Book four in the Perfect Taboo series.

Never make a bet with a Dom…

It’s a bad idea under any circumstances, and when the Dom is Jack—a sadist with a perpetual frown and no discernible sense of humor—it’s a really bad idea. But backing down isn’t in Sadie’s DNA, and by the time her self-preservation instincts kick in, it’s too late—she’s lost the bet and owes Jack a scene.

Jack’s been waiting for a chance to have Sadie all to himself from the moment he saw her, but the timing’s never been right. Now, thanks to her sassy mouth overriding her common sense, his patience is paying off. She owes him a scene, and he intends to collect.

But one scene does not a relationship make, and Jack wants Sadie for more than an occasional play partner—he wants her as his lover, his partner…and his submissive. Problem is Sadie’s not interested in serious, and showing his cards too soon could send her running.

If he’s going to win the day—and the girl—he’ll have to play his hand at just the right time.

If he doesn’t overplay it first.

Reader advisory: This book contains scenes of role-play, sexual fantasy, and RACK.

368 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 29, 2023

8 people are currently reading
152 people want to read

About the author

Hannah Murray

56 books120 followers
Hannah has been reading romance novels since she was young enough to have to hide them from her mother, and decided to try her hand at writing one when she realized the book she really wanted to read lived in her head. That was a dozen years and as many manuscripts ago, and there are still more stories to be told.

She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband—former Special Forces and an OR nurse who writes fantasy fiction, and acts as In House Expert for his wife on matters pertaining to weapons, tactics, the military, medical conditions and How Dudes Think—and their daughter, who takes after her father.

Hannah loves to hear from readers, and will answer questions here on Goodreads.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Mel.
1,695 reviews4 followers
August 5, 2023
Even when the kink isn’t my personal kink, Hannah Murray manages to write these extremely erotic romances and make me feel invested in the characters and the relationships and yes, even the kink. I really enjoyed Jack and Sadie and definitely plan to go back and read the rest of the series. It was obviously very hot and sexy but I also liked the development of their feelings for each other.

ARC from author, opinions are all mine.
Profile Image for M. Carolina.
212 reviews9 followers
January 16, 2024
It's so incredibly difficult to find erotica books that are good. Those that are bdsm themed even harder, so imagine my surprise when I found this gem thru a mutual.

I appalled that there isn't more rating and reviews to Hannah Murray's books.

If they're even close to the quality of this one it truly is absurd.

If you enjoy kink ones but packing heart - and very well written - please pick this one up.

By the way I truly, completely loved Sadie. She was just so damn perfect and I really laughed thru some parts of this one, the comedic time was amazing.

Jack is also a yummy hero (but Sadie was the shinning star for me) and they complemented each other truly. It's rare for me but I'd love to read more about them.

Going to dive in other works by this one!
Profile Image for 2N.
77 reviews
April 4, 2025
DNF @83% it was straight sex the whole book and don’t get me wrong it was fun to read but in what moment did she fall in love with him. Did I miss something? Where we’re the dates where was a cuddle. All I got was slaps and anal play and yes Boss. I had to stop reading. Lots of sex not a lot of love. If this wasn’t titled a romance book it literally could’ve been a strictly pleasure BDSM relationship and I would’ve been like okay makes sense. I was fooled by a review that said it packed equal amounts of kink and heart. LIAR 🫵🏼
3,253 reviews20 followers
September 4, 2023

A Very Unconventional Unconventional Relationship

Sadie is a bit of a brat and Jack is a sadistic Dom - these two shouldn’t work out, but one bet and a demo together, and they start of something beautiful and unique is born. Their initial demo really sets the tone for their story - Jack was demonstrated “Pervertable” (everyday things like clothespins and hair barrettes that can be used in BDSM) on Sadie. I loved this story - the scenes were detailed and vivid, Sadie and Jack were likeable and funny, and the biggest hurdles were some fear of commitment and a misunderstanding (plus all the pleasurable pain Jack inflicted on Sadie). A fantastic read.
Profile Image for Just a Little Reading & Reviewing.
372 reviews127 followers
August 31, 2023
3.5 Stars

Sadie and Jack seem like two opposites but when they come together, their explosive chemistry jumps off the pages.

I loved that Jack falls first and does everything he can to win Sadie over. Sadie being her bratty and exuberant self, takes some convincing since she is commitment shy and is sure that serious stern Jack wouldn’t be willing to handle her 24/7.

Loved that Jack always kept her guessing and it was fun to watch him push her buttons and vise versa. These two have a competitive side that fueled their every interaction and added another complex layer to their relationship.

Their particular kink isn’t for me but I will admit that Jack’s creative imagination was definitely eye opening! The amount of attention that went into that educational scene is something you don’t readily find in BDSM books so I appreciated how it was all handled and presented. Honestly, every play scene, whether it was a that club or in a more private setting was handled with the greatest care and the best open communication possible.

This was an engaging read with great MCs and equally great supporting characters. Their final conflict felt a little forced and Sadie definitely lets her inner brat shine when she’s hurting but Jack doesn’t let that stand in the way of claiming his perfect other half! I really loved the short epilogue that it makes up for any rushed conflict between them. It showed you how amazing these two are together, now that they are both confident in their relationship and it definitely left me with the warm fuzzies I’m always chasing when reading romance 😊

I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.


SPOILER-Y EXTRAS:
Profile Image for loveofafairy.
148 reviews7 followers
August 25, 2023
Sizzling Banter and Passion
Rating: 9/10
Spice Level: 4/5
Reread: Definitely


This book was an overall delight. While I still like Cade's story more, this is an amazing addition to the series. I loved that once again, the author managed to showcase a kink and a side of BDSM that although outside of my normal comfort zone, was presented in a very beautiful manner.

The interactions between Sadie and Jack are both serious and light-hearted, creating a balanced narrative that keeps you engaged. Their interactions are not only steamy but also filled with genuine emotion and thoughtfulness. While the spicy scenes are undeniably hot, they also showcase a depth that sets this book apart. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and their journey is laced with humor that often leads to genuine laughter.

While the majority of the book was great, there are a couple of points that slightly diminished its enjoyment for me. The narrative employs a semi-miscommunication trope towards the end, which is a personal annoyance of mine. Additionally, towards the beginning of the relationship, Jack gave the feeling of trying to push Sadie toward a higher pain tolerance simply for his enjoyment although she hadn't given any sign indicating that was her wish. However, both points were only slightly icks.

On the whole, the book is a remarkable read that adeptly navigates the terrain of sadism and masochism, presenting it in a way that is accessible and intriguing. The character dynamics, despite minor hiccups, drive the plot forward with intensity and emotion. For those willing to explore a world outside their comfort zone, this book is a great choice that offers both passion and depth.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Danielle Graves.
874 reviews28 followers
August 29, 2023
The Sadist and the Brat is a genuinely fun and enjoyable read. Whilst I went into this book expecting some sass from the ‘Brat’ nothing could have prepared me for the laugh out comedic moments this book provided. There was everything from a mother discussing oral sex to jokes made about anal causing flatulence and it was all done in a really light hearted way that felt natural in the flow of the story.

Sadie is a brat and has a bit of a reputation for not settling down and that makes her appear as a challenge and a conquest to some, but those that know her and care about her realise it’s a self preservation mechanism to avoid getting hurt. Turns out she actually likes a bit of pain - just not the emotional kind and that’s where Jack comes in. He’s a sadist and he has a thing for Sadie and although everybody else can see it, she doesn’t.

The book is the exploration of their relationship. A favour and then a bet sees them scene together a couple of times and find that they genuinely and surprisingly enjoy each other's company. The exploration via their BDSM scenes are hot and heavy and very imaginative with the author going to great lengths to make them fun and sexy but still safe and still keeping BDSM safeguarding rules in place. However whilst the communicate sexually beautifully their emotional communication causes them some issues.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I hope the author continues telling the story of some of the other sideline characters as I’d love to read them
Profile Image for Anij.
1,325 reviews12 followers
September 10, 2023
“It’s cute you think you’re in charge.”

This book was a surprising delight and nothing like I had assumed it would be based on the blurb although there is nothing in it that is incorrect. I think the reason it was different is because, since I haven’t read any of the other books in the series, I didn’t already know either of the main characters, and so my expectations were inaccurate based on my assumptions of what they would be like. Yes, Jack is a sadist and Sadie is a brat. Jack, though, is unlike any sadist I’ve ever read about and clearly unlike Sadie thought he was as well. He was actually very charming, patient and funny. He took true delight in his sadism and presented the kink in an amusing fun way. Usually sadists are serious and a little dark. But not Jack. This more than anything seemed to keep Sadie unbalanced, on her toes, capturing and holding the attention and interest of the very jaded, controlling brat. He helped her tap into parts of herself she didn’t know existed and brought out the true submissive she yearned to be. I actually believe he is the perfect man for her.

There are quite a few very interesting secondary characters, some who I have learned are in earlier books in the series and some who I suspect will be in future books. Sadie’s family is hysterical and I laughed at them both times we saw them. I actually laughed quite a bit in this book, which was also unexpected as this is in no way a RomCom. I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading future books as well as checking out the other books in the series.
1,587 reviews12 followers
August 28, 2023
The Sadist and the Brat is the latest book in the Perfect Taboo series. Like the other books, it explores one particular kink in depth and with lots of feeling. As the title implies, Sadie and Jack's story focuses on a sadist/masochist relationship. It was fascinating to see how the bored and slightly jaded brat Sadie really blossomes under the hand of patient sadist Jack willing to wait for his chance with the woman who captured his interest and then going for it - taking baby steps. While the detailed and graphic scenes had me going 'ouch' a number of times, they are nevertheless so full of care and emotions that I loved their dynamic and cheered for them to find their HEA. This author has a wonderful gift to take me on reading journeys outside my normal comfort level - and enjoying it immensly. So I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in BDSM romance and hope we get more stories like this!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
648 reviews15 followers
July 23, 2023
Burning with volcanic heat, bursting with loveable characters, bubbling with great bratty banter! This book was totally unexpected! Not only is this a deliciously deep and interesting take on the lifestyle, but, at times, it's laugh out loud funny! Couldn't put it down!

This is such a refreshing read! It goes beyond the usual whips and toys and StA crosses, and focuses on the couple, on the sadistic Dom, Jack, as he experiments with a potential pain slut, Sadie, that he wants to keep for himself. Afraid he could scare her off he has to exercise caution, but she always wants more.

Now that sounds really serious, and it is, but there's also so much fun and humour in Sadie's journey that, at times, I creased up! And if an author can get that sort of reaction from me I know they're good! Highly recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Marty Hamrick.
593 reviews1 follower
August 30, 2023
This is so well-written, detailed, and emotionally complex. I love the development of the relationship between Sadie and Jack; I love how he was waiting for and moving her along the path to the relationship he always wanted and she tried so hard to avoid. Her reluctance and fears were well-handled, and I love that he was patient, but pushed her whenever she needed it. In the context of a BDSM, Ds, sado/masochist relationship it's quite complex to find the right balance and to find trust and I think that Hannah Murray has written this story will brilliant attention to the nuance that requires. Yes, there are a LOT of steamy, kin*y scenes and those are brilliantly well done as well, but the underlying relationship even during those scenes is the most compelling part of this novel for me. I definitely want to read the other stories in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,651 reviews11 followers
August 31, 2023
Sadie and Jack meet at the BDSM club. Jack is a sadist, and Sadie craves pain, but she hasn’t been interested in a scene with Jack until she fills in for a friend and then loses a bet. Jack really wants Sadie for more scenes and more everything, she thinks he doesn’t like her, but as time passes and they get together more, things change. This couple is a prime target for lessons in communication, communication, communication, but on more than just asking for colors, wants or needs in a scene. Some pretty intense pain scenes with impact play and more, but good story on the development of their relationship. I especially liked Sadie’s bratty banter with Jack, she was a handful. I will probably look for more books from this author as characters were interesting and story kept me reading to see how it all came out.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,092 reviews9 followers
August 29, 2023
‘The Sadist and the Brat’ is the 6th book in Hannah Murray’s series and it’s beautifully written which brings out the emotions involved between Sadie and Jack. Sadie has never settled on one Dom: she brats, flits around, and is well liked by most everyone. Jack is a sadist, doesn’t seem to smile much, and hasn’t scened with Sadie.

Hannah uses witty humor, explicit detail, and the lifestyle dynamics to describe and develop their relationship. She conveys Sadie’s reticence to commitment and showing her emotions while Jack’s goals are the opposite. Their scenes are more than pain and pleasure: they transcend into an emotional state of rawness, truth, and openness. I loved their connection, her family’s quirky personalities, and their friendships.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Chris.
1,253 reviews
July 22, 2023
I have devoured every book in the Perfect Taboo series and eagerly anticipated Jack & Sadie's story. I was practically giddy when Hannah announced that she was working on it!

Jack and Sadie were everything I hoped they would be! The scenes were sexy and thoughtful and hot AF. I loved getting a peek at the other couples in the series, especially my book husband Cade. I love the camaraderie between all of the characters, which IMO, is one of the best things about Hannah's books.

The Sadist and the Brat is a solid 4.5 to me. I may have rated it a 5 if I hadn't read Cade's book already. :P

I received an ARC of this book, but I'm gonna buy it when it's released anyway because it was that good.
Profile Image for Zelda.
1,456 reviews
August 14, 2023
My first book by this author & I’ve now purchased the rest of the series! This is a standalone with interconnected characters. Sadie reluctantly steps in to help with a demonstration at a BDSM club. Sadie is all sass & brat—she’s unknowingly caught the attention of Jack (aka Resting D!ck Face). Jack has been biding his time to scene with Sadie & recognises her skittishness. Sadie’s masochism is the perfect fit for Jack’s (aka Boss) sadism. I loved how Jack slowly allows Sadie to take baby steps towards him, appreciates her for the way she is, and encourages her to reach some steamy new heights. I’ve got to catch up with the other couples, they sound just as fun!
Profile Image for Darcy.
1,694 reviews9 followers
August 28, 2023
This book was heavy on the kink aspect of the story, but what I liked was how the author portrayed the two sides of Sadie's character. Sadie trusted Jack with herself physically and knew he would never go over her limits and cause her unwanted pain. However, she didn't trust him when it came to her emotions. Although they spoke openly about negotiations, she avoided any outright conversations about their relationship and continued to doubt his intentions. I found the story interesting that Sadie strong in some ways, but scared when it came down to investing her heart.
Profile Image for Mystisith.
690 reviews10 followers
September 4, 2023
4.25 ⭐
Pros: if you like a lot of negotiation and overall realistic witty dialogue, it's a pleasure to read. The kink and the power exchange were treated as it should be & finally, a sub who's into butt stuff but is a bit reluctant because of the logistics, before and after. Thank you for realism!
Cons: The misunderstanding 1 chapter from the end was really unnecessary (but at least the misery didn't last). Also that secondary character with a plural pronoun, I'll just ignore it unless, plot twist! He has an invisible conjoined siamese brother.
Profile Image for "They Did What?".
303 reviews3 followers
August 27, 2023
I happened to find this book through an ARC and really glad I did. The story and descriptiveness was excellent, there were no stutters, and flowed from beginning to end. I came into this series in the middle and will for sure be going back to read the previous books. I am so invested in learning about the other couples who each have their own book and are strong parts of this one. Hannah Murray is definitely going to my favorite author list.
Profile Image for Deb.
7,537 reviews36 followers
August 31, 2023
Along with the tantalizing storyline within this fascinating world is the captivating romance with an energetic, emotionally charged vibe. I loved the characters who were so well written to encompass their dynamic both together and separately. The story was compelling and I found it easy to engage in their drama. Great flow to the story. Awesome relationships all around. Beautiful romance. Great story.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Happyscribe.
939 reviews9 followers
September 11, 2023
How fun is this series? I am loving the Perfect Taboo books - they're sassy, unapologetic and so spicy it's brilliant.
Hannah Murray nails the kinky erotic appeal of Doms ad their playmates - as she brings such truth and depth to these characters that is usually missing from these novellas. However, you will be guaranteed an entertaining and saucy story - so enjoy!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for SBee Reviews.
2,648 reviews82 followers
September 25, 2023
★ “…everybody around here seems to be all hat and no cattle.” ★

—>>> Jack gets his girl with a little help from his friends, once the green light was begrudgingly given. He had been biding his time, and Sadie’s submission was worth it. We find out why she is so relationship shy and sassier than the average sub at their club. Some laugh-out-loud moments, another great read from this author to put on my bookshelf beside Goldie & The Bears.
Profile Image for Erin Turner.
6 reviews1 follower
July 31, 2023
First of all, being a brat submissive myself - I LOVE the FMC! She’s so cute & fun. The scenes are intense and yummy and just…so right. There were some moments that felt drug down by ongoing dialogue but not enough for me to want to stop reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
586 reviews5 followers
September 2, 2023
Naughty romances, so good, so...yummy. There's just something about them that keeps us coming back for more, isn't there? And this one by Murray is no exception.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
6,133 reviews28 followers
September 4, 2023
Well done…

I liked that Jack and Sadie do talk and communicate and set rules and expectations. Where they go off is when Jack doesn’t tell Sadie what he wants. Then misunderstandings occur. Big time.
Recommend.
3,768 reviews12 followers
September 4, 2023
The Sadist and the Brat by Hannah Murray
New author for me and I find I’m like her style and her characters are deep. I’ll be looking for more from her.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
64 reviews2 followers
September 18, 2023
God I don't remember the last time I enjoyed an erotica this much. Sadie was everything and more. Jack... I was like this is my man when I read about Jack on In His Hands and I was not wrong. Never liked a male lead this much in a book. Hannah Murray you do it with every book and I'm here for it.
Profile Image for Laiba Malik.
502 reviews
August 29, 2023
This book was such a pleasant read with an engaging plot, sizzling characters with a great chemistry.
217 reviews1 follower
May 11, 2025
This is my favorite of the series I've read (so far at least.)
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