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Out of the Shadows and into the Darkness
A deeply felt and superbly written BDSM love story, Senta Holland’s ‘Out of the Shadows’ explores the beautiful darkness in seven bedrooms.
You’ve been enthralled by ‘The Bride Stripped Bare’ and ‘The Secret Diary of a Submissive’, now prepare to devour ‘Out of the Shadows’.
Senta, a thirty something Londoner, travels around the planet looking for the man who can match her. The one she finds is her ′Nai′, a high society American in Asia. Senta′s story is both complicated and made more exciting by the fact that it unfolds in the dark world of BDSM, a world that can be hostile to single, independent females.
Highly erotic, deeply romantic, funny, heartfelt and beautifully tragic, this book shows the BDSM experience from the inside out, as reality, not just fantasy. Above all it is an intelligent, insightful and deeply sensitive love story that will take you to places beyond your wildest dreams and open up the most secret aspects of your erotic identity. It will make you lust, think, feel and cry. Senta′s message to her readers is passionate and clear: Never give up looking for your true sexuality.
Real romantic BDSM with all the thrills (and more...) of fantasy, plus a real life size relationship and a positive message to women: ′you can go for your sexual dreams′.
You’ve been enthralled by ‘The Bride Stripped Bare’ and ‘The Secret Diary of a Submissive’, now prepare to devour ‘Out of the Shadows’.
Senta, a thirty something Londoner, travels around the planet looking for the man who can match her. The one she finds is her ′Nai′, a high society American in Asia. Senta′s story is both complicated and made more exciting by the fact that it unfolds in the dark world of BDSM, a world that can be hostile to single, independent females.
Highly erotic, deeply romantic, funny, heartfelt and beautifully tragic, this book shows the BDSM experience from the inside out, as reality, not just fantasy. Above all it is an intelligent, insightful and deeply sensitive love story that will take you to places beyond your wildest dreams and open up the most secret aspects of your erotic identity. It will make you lust, think, feel and cry. Senta′s message to her readers is passionate and clear: Never give up looking for your true sexuality.
Real romantic BDSM with all the thrills (and more...) of fantasy, plus a real life size relationship and a positive message to women: ′you can go for your sexual dreams′.
273 pages, ebook
First published February 1, 2013
2 people are currently reading
371 people want to read
About the author
Senta Holland
5 books24 followersSenta Holland lives and loves in the shadows, in a world of BDSM from the inside out. Her passion has to be lived in secret. If the shadows don't lift, you will never meet her and the only way to get to know Senta is through her book. Open the pages, and she will lead you deep inside her beloved darkness. But maybe you have met Senta already. Maybe you hear her soft voice in your dreams, maybe she is sitting right next to you on the Underground. And maybe you, yourself, are Senta in the shadows.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 11, 2013
This was definitively an eye opener for me, yes, it's one thing to read all the beautiful stories that come out of the Erotica genre and all the BDSM lifestyle that I read in fiction, but to read such a "real" testimony of someone that actually walks through this lifestyle and embraces it as a personal choice for her life is another.
The road is long, a self discovery of who we are and what we want, what we feel comfortable with and what we have to sacrifice to achieve the state of freedom that this particular road leads to.
This book brings us the experience of one woman towards the bonds of society, through her voice she tells her story ...
Her story of the scars that she bears underneath her skin from the rejection of those around her, to the pleasure of being beaten, the glory of pain and through pain, the road to pleasure.
She brings us the loneliness of the waiting in another culture where everything is so fast and opposite to what we are accustomed to, the heat, the freedom of our skin wet under a rainy and blazing sky that can eat you up hole.
The wetness of her body and the joy of submitting without boundaries, the darkness, a lonely but delightful darkness, a place where she meets her soul and the love of her life, her master.
This book is written in a poetic and beautiful manner, you could almost smell the air, feel the heat, and really, I got so caught in the story that sometimes I had to stop and pull away from the story because it literally sucked me in.
It's not common for me to go back to the last page so I could understand better what was on the next one, but here, with the fast paced speech, I wanted to be shure that I understood, that I would follow the next step and not get lost in her feelings.
This was a first for me, reading something told in a solo voice and I step up to the last page with a better knowledge of the role of a submissive and what a woman wants and has to endure at the hands of her master.
M. Holland wrote a fantastic book, one of a kind, so different from what I expected but so much better than so many others out there.
It's a book about what pleases us, it's a book about choices and it makes us think and reflect on our "wants" that so when we take the step forward we know where we're going ... into the darkness, I hope.
It is one of his kind and it is going in my physical shelf of the favorites.
The road is long, a self discovery of who we are and what we want, what we feel comfortable with and what we have to sacrifice to achieve the state of freedom that this particular road leads to.
This book brings us the experience of one woman towards the bonds of society, through her voice she tells her story ...
Her story of the scars that she bears underneath her skin from the rejection of those around her, to the pleasure of being beaten, the glory of pain and through pain, the road to pleasure.
She brings us the loneliness of the waiting in another culture where everything is so fast and opposite to what we are accustomed to, the heat, the freedom of our skin wet under a rainy and blazing sky that can eat you up hole.
The wetness of her body and the joy of submitting without boundaries, the darkness, a lonely but delightful darkness, a place where she meets her soul and the love of her life, her master.
This book is written in a poetic and beautiful manner, you could almost smell the air, feel the heat, and really, I got so caught in the story that sometimes I had to stop and pull away from the story because it literally sucked me in.
It's not common for me to go back to the last page so I could understand better what was on the next one, but here, with the fast paced speech, I wanted to be shure that I understood, that I would follow the next step and not get lost in her feelings.
This was a first for me, reading something told in a solo voice and I step up to the last page with a better knowledge of the role of a submissive and what a woman wants and has to endure at the hands of her master.
M. Holland wrote a fantastic book, one of a kind, so different from what I expected but so much better than so many others out there.
It's a book about what pleases us, it's a book about choices and it makes us think and reflect on our "wants" that so when we take the step forward we know where we're going ... into the darkness, I hope.
It is one of his kind and it is going in my physical shelf of the favorites.
May 30, 2013
If this book was not a BDSM novel written by a young woman, it would be shelved among the best of contemporary literature. It certainly deserves to be there. As it is, because of the absurd genre division that still exists in our book world, it is classified as ‘romance’.
If you are used to reading kinky fantasies, this book may shock you. Here is BDSM for real, narrated in a compelling, fast moving first person stream of consciousness that riffs on modernist traditions while driving the action on through short, poignant , sometimes deliberately jarring sections. It’s a wild ride and it’s worth it.
There is plenty of erotic content, and it is of the most adventurous kind. But ‘Out of the Shadows’ is not constructed around a tired old plot with ‘set sex scenes’ – the whole book is a continuous flow of sexual expression, physical, emotional and intellectual. It is also a very contemporary (and very touching) love story told through the medium of the erotic relationship. As if that were not enough, it also reflects on the international BDSM community and the history of BDSM as a sexuality from an unusual perspective.
Having said all that, ‘Out of the Shadows’ is beautiful. Just as modern Asian megacities, subspace and men’s bodies are beautiful. And it has a very unexpected ending.
Most striking is the fact that Ms Holland writes in a style all of her own. The only writer I feel I can compare her to is Chuck Palahniuk – and ‘Out of the Shadows’ is indeed the Fight Club of unconventional love.
Read it. You will go through a once in a lifetime experience, and you will know many things you didn’t know before when you come out on the other side. About Senta, about BDSM, but mostly about yourself.
If you are used to reading kinky fantasies, this book may shock you. Here is BDSM for real, narrated in a compelling, fast moving first person stream of consciousness that riffs on modernist traditions while driving the action on through short, poignant , sometimes deliberately jarring sections. It’s a wild ride and it’s worth it.
There is plenty of erotic content, and it is of the most adventurous kind. But ‘Out of the Shadows’ is not constructed around a tired old plot with ‘set sex scenes’ – the whole book is a continuous flow of sexual expression, physical, emotional and intellectual. It is also a very contemporary (and very touching) love story told through the medium of the erotic relationship. As if that were not enough, it also reflects on the international BDSM community and the history of BDSM as a sexuality from an unusual perspective.
Having said all that, ‘Out of the Shadows’ is beautiful. Just as modern Asian megacities, subspace and men’s bodies are beautiful. And it has a very unexpected ending.
Most striking is the fact that Ms Holland writes in a style all of her own. The only writer I feel I can compare her to is Chuck Palahniuk – and ‘Out of the Shadows’ is indeed the Fight Club of unconventional love.
Read it. You will go through a once in a lifetime experience, and you will know many things you didn’t know before when you come out on the other side. About Senta, about BDSM, but mostly about yourself.
June 3, 2013
This book is extraordinary, and it touched me. As a man.
It is not the kind of book that men would ordinarily pick up (or download, in this case). What a shame.
This author, I must say, knows a lot about men. Maybe too much. Too much for comfort. But then, life and sex are not primarily about comfort. They are, for me, about truth. That's what I look for in writing, and that's why I mostly read non-fiction.
The portrayal of the male lead (I don't like the word 'hero' in this context) is very real, very true. It made me think about my own life and loves, and it even made me come here and write this.
Where are the men's erotica like this? Should erotica like this be marketed at both genders, perhaps? (Personally, I found the cover misleading and off-putting for men... - again, what a shame.)
This book has been compared to 'Fight Club' and I think I understand why. It has stark, raw power and it shrinks from nothing.
5 stars from me.
It is not the kind of book that men would ordinarily pick up (or download, in this case). What a shame.
This author, I must say, knows a lot about men. Maybe too much. Too much for comfort. But then, life and sex are not primarily about comfort. They are, for me, about truth. That's what I look for in writing, and that's why I mostly read non-fiction.
The portrayal of the male lead (I don't like the word 'hero' in this context) is very real, very true. It made me think about my own life and loves, and it even made me come here and write this.
Where are the men's erotica like this? Should erotica like this be marketed at both genders, perhaps? (Personally, I found the cover misleading and off-putting for men... - again, what a shame.)
This book has been compared to 'Fight Club' and I think I understand why. It has stark, raw power and it shrinks from nothing.
5 stars from me.
October 14, 2015
Exceptionally well written. Beautiful, strangely poetic, and almost lyrical in its prose; something I wasn't expecting in the slightest from an erotica novel. I've read a little of the genre here and there, some things more dramatic than others. I wouldn't say I'm an expert or well-versed by any means. But I know enough, and I know a little about BDSM as well.
I've also read my fair share of BDSM, again in bits and pieces, here and there. It was something I stumbled upon and since it was so blatantly different from everything I'd known about sex previously, I was intensely curious. I think the first well known story I read with any sort of spanking was The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty. It was interesting.
I'm no expert. I have very limited knowledge, but in my inexperienced opinion this was a a fantastic novel. I think for me this provided the best lens to see the life of someone who practices BDSM, at least the way I had learned of it. It was a delicate mix between the pushing of a social agenda, a celebration of an alternative lifestyle, and a love story.
The formatting was a bit unusual; it took me a little bit to adapt and get used to it. Much the same way as the story line, actually. While there were some toys they used that were not unusual to hear about, there were also numerous mentions of activities and instruments I never would have guessed existed. But what I love is that while I was indirectly taught the mechanics of these items, the emphasis was more on the emotions between the two lovers and, while emphasis was mostly on the sub, the focus was almost exclusively on the rush of lust and just plain physical desire for both parties.
The thing that stuck with me quite a bit was the mention of feeling like an outcast. I absolutely believe that this is a very real problem, not only with people who don't practice the lifestyle but also those who are involved somehow and yet still mock and ridicule. Senta's numerous tellings of this were disheartening, to say the least. I can only hope that such a groundbreaking novel as this will help to pave the way for more acceptance and open communication.
There is no real way to describe this story. It just is. And it's magnificent and eye-opening.
I've also read my fair share of BDSM, again in bits and pieces, here and there. It was something I stumbled upon and since it was so blatantly different from everything I'd known about sex previously, I was intensely curious. I think the first well known story I read with any sort of spanking was The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty. It was interesting.
I'm no expert. I have very limited knowledge, but in my inexperienced opinion this was a a fantastic novel. I think for me this provided the best lens to see the life of someone who practices BDSM, at least the way I had learned of it. It was a delicate mix between the pushing of a social agenda, a celebration of an alternative lifestyle, and a love story.
The formatting was a bit unusual; it took me a little bit to adapt and get used to it. Much the same way as the story line, actually. While there were some toys they used that were not unusual to hear about, there were also numerous mentions of activities and instruments I never would have guessed existed. But what I love is that while I was indirectly taught the mechanics of these items, the emphasis was more on the emotions between the two lovers and, while emphasis was mostly on the sub, the focus was almost exclusively on the rush of lust and just plain physical desire for both parties.
The thing that stuck with me quite a bit was the mention of feeling like an outcast. I absolutely believe that this is a very real problem, not only with people who don't practice the lifestyle but also those who are involved somehow and yet still mock and ridicule. Senta's numerous tellings of this were disheartening, to say the least. I can only hope that such a groundbreaking novel as this will help to pave the way for more acceptance and open communication.
There is no real way to describe this story. It just is. And it's magnificent and eye-opening.
May 30, 2013
I didn't like this book at all which is why I'm rating it a 1 star. There was nothing in here I could enjoy. However, since I'm reviewing it for a book review site and they have specific criteria for ratings, I'm also posting those below. This way, it will be clear how the ratings could be different.
Sting (Kink) Rating: ★★✰✰✰
Story Review Rating: 2 Paddles
The realities of BDSM can be harsh. Senta finds this to be all too true in her journey of self-discovery. This story is written in a "stream of conscious" prose. It's neither poetry nor lyrical. It comes across as a young girl writing in her diary. The question is, can the reader trust what the girl is writing in her diary or is everything a fabrication of her imagination?
Senta is a supposed British ex-patriate living in Bangkok. She meets the man of her dreams. This man is a wealthy American living the high life with his wife. However, he finds a piece of himself missing. This essential piece is his need for BDSM. The story is narrated in first person from Senta's point of view.
Ms. Holland took a chance here and wrote not only in first person but also in a telling rather than showing style. I am neither a fan of first person narrative nor do I like being talked at with philosophical lectures. Based on her style of prose, it appears there is willful breaking of grammatical rules. Commas and quotations are violated as well as traditional sentence structure.
From a story telling perspective, this tale is hard to enjoy. For one thing, I've been an ex-pat to a foreign country. My experiences as an ex-pat are not too different than the character, Senta. Even the experiences of Senta from a BDSM exposure isn't that different from mine. What is trying is the way the story is written. Instead of being treated sensual scenes of BDSM, the reader is forced through a long lecture of BDSM posers versus real BDSM lifestylers. While the character states in several instances how she is not judgmental of kinks different from her lifestyle, it falls flat because there is no demonstration of her lack of judgment. The constant philosophizing about the BDSM adventure grew tedious. If Ms. Holland could have presented a fresh look or deep analysis about BDSM, even just a specific act, then this would cause the reader to think about it. Instead, the analysis came across shallow through questions presented than points to ponder. Senta is no Dagny coming to an epiphany as in Atlas Shrugged. Instead, Senta comes across more of a confused Daisy in the Great Gatsby.
This book did try to come across as a deeper journey with meaning into an alternative lifestyle through sacrifice and love lost. Instead it showcased a foolish woman taken for granted. Many times, Senta would try a counter argue about how people felt she was throwing her life away. She's argue how her independence and her livelihood is built on a solid foundation. Yet the constant insecure thoughts of not seeing her "Nai" again negates her protests of great love. Each time Senta would wave her wand and explain away the failures with some kind of delusional emotion. Even the ending of the story is odd as Senta chooses willful ignorance and declares to love forever more. She is devote to someone who is not willing to do the same for her. Perhaps it's because I prefer logic over sentiment that this story doesn't work for me at all. Or perhaps it's because the I don't need Ms. Holland's explanation of BDSM beaten into me with a hammer like effect.
At times, I couldn't tell if Ms. Holland was trying to write a cautionary BDSM non-fiction advice book or if it was a lover scorned memoir. Either way, it didn't match story blurb. My expectations was to read about a journey of self-discovery into the BDSM lifestyle accented with love and hot sex scenes. Instead, the BDSM scenes were unsatisfactory and the love was more an obsession unfulfilled.
The basic concepts of D/s were missed here. Where is the trust and open communication? From the start, the D/s is hidden and while there is a poking fun of "negotiations", there were no real scenes of power exchange. The reader was treated to flowery prose of how awesome Senta felt submitting to her "Nai". It reminds me of vapor ware. This reader is not buying it. The reader is told the D/s is there but in actuality, it's just a concept tossed in without any concrete applications. One could argue the BD existed through the scene with chaining. Or even that SM was carried out with the whippings and canings. From my perspective, the scenes didn't even make sense. And it was clear from Senta's point of view, the chaining didn't do anything for her. She wasn't aroused nor did see feel any erotic power exchange. Why was Senta caned? Beats me. It was for some punishment that flew by me. Perhaps it was the lack of proper sentence structure and paragraphs which caused my mind to miss it.
My recommendation for Ms. Holland is to drop the lecture tone and cease with the constant mentioning of BDSM. It is possible to write a BDSM story without ever using the term BDSM. This is accomplished by showing rather than telling. I also recommend against using first person. There are some authors who can write in first person very well. This is because their character is designed to be an everyday person who can be relatable and admired. Senta the character is neither relatable nor admirable. I feel only pity for her hallucinations. This book is a difficult read. Perhaps those enjoy streams of consciousness and illicit confessions would enjoy this tale.
5 Stings – The BDSM sex scenes are memorable and phenomenal.
4 Stings – The BDSM scenes are done very well.
3 Stings – The BDSM scenes are mediocre. May or may not contain some minor flaws.
2 Stings – The BDSM were light and just kinky.
1 Stings – Where was the BDSM scenes? Non-existent
5 paddles - Gripping and un-putdownable. Has a place on my keeper shelf. Great chance of re-reading.
4 paddles - Excellent. Highly enjoyable and well-written. But may not be keepers
3 paddles - Average. May or may not contain some minor flaws.
2 paddles - Contains major flaws and needs improvement.
1 paddle - Not enjoyable and wouldn't recommend.
*provided by BDSM Book Reviews
Sting (Kink) Rating: ★★✰✰✰
Story Review Rating: 2 Paddles
The realities of BDSM can be harsh. Senta finds this to be all too true in her journey of self-discovery. This story is written in a "stream of conscious" prose. It's neither poetry nor lyrical. It comes across as a young girl writing in her diary. The question is, can the reader trust what the girl is writing in her diary or is everything a fabrication of her imagination?
Senta is a supposed British ex-patriate living in Bangkok. She meets the man of her dreams. This man is a wealthy American living the high life with his wife. However, he finds a piece of himself missing. This essential piece is his need for BDSM. The story is narrated in first person from Senta's point of view.
Ms. Holland took a chance here and wrote not only in first person but also in a telling rather than showing style. I am neither a fan of first person narrative nor do I like being talked at with philosophical lectures. Based on her style of prose, it appears there is willful breaking of grammatical rules. Commas and quotations are violated as well as traditional sentence structure.
From a story telling perspective, this tale is hard to enjoy. For one thing, I've been an ex-pat to a foreign country. My experiences as an ex-pat are not too different than the character, Senta. Even the experiences of Senta from a BDSM exposure isn't that different from mine. What is trying is the way the story is written. Instead of being treated sensual scenes of BDSM, the reader is forced through a long lecture of BDSM posers versus real BDSM lifestylers. While the character states in several instances how she is not judgmental of kinks different from her lifestyle, it falls flat because there is no demonstration of her lack of judgment. The constant philosophizing about the BDSM adventure grew tedious. If Ms. Holland could have presented a fresh look or deep analysis about BDSM, even just a specific act, then this would cause the reader to think about it. Instead, the analysis came across shallow through questions presented than points to ponder. Senta is no Dagny coming to an epiphany as in Atlas Shrugged. Instead, Senta comes across more of a confused Daisy in the Great Gatsby.
This book did try to come across as a deeper journey with meaning into an alternative lifestyle through sacrifice and love lost. Instead it showcased a foolish woman taken for granted. Many times, Senta would try a counter argue about how people felt she was throwing her life away. She's argue how her independence and her livelihood is built on a solid foundation. Yet the constant insecure thoughts of not seeing her "Nai" again negates her protests of great love. Each time Senta would wave her wand and explain away the failures with some kind of delusional emotion. Even the ending of the story is odd as Senta chooses willful ignorance and declares to love forever more. She is devote to someone who is not willing to do the same for her. Perhaps it's because I prefer logic over sentiment that this story doesn't work for me at all. Or perhaps it's because the I don't need Ms. Holland's explanation of BDSM beaten into me with a hammer like effect.
At times, I couldn't tell if Ms. Holland was trying to write a cautionary BDSM non-fiction advice book or if it was a lover scorned memoir. Either way, it didn't match story blurb. My expectations was to read about a journey of self-discovery into the BDSM lifestyle accented with love and hot sex scenes. Instead, the BDSM scenes were unsatisfactory and the love was more an obsession unfulfilled.
The basic concepts of D/s were missed here. Where is the trust and open communication? From the start, the D/s is hidden and while there is a poking fun of "negotiations", there were no real scenes of power exchange. The reader was treated to flowery prose of how awesome Senta felt submitting to her "Nai". It reminds me of vapor ware. This reader is not buying it. The reader is told the D/s is there but in actuality, it's just a concept tossed in without any concrete applications. One could argue the BD existed through the scene with chaining. Or even that SM was carried out with the whippings and canings. From my perspective, the scenes didn't even make sense. And it was clear from Senta's point of view, the chaining didn't do anything for her. She wasn't aroused nor did see feel any erotic power exchange. Why was Senta caned? Beats me. It was for some punishment that flew by me. Perhaps it was the lack of proper sentence structure and paragraphs which caused my mind to miss it.
My recommendation for Ms. Holland is to drop the lecture tone and cease with the constant mentioning of BDSM. It is possible to write a BDSM story without ever using the term BDSM. This is accomplished by showing rather than telling. I also recommend against using first person. There are some authors who can write in first person very well. This is because their character is designed to be an everyday person who can be relatable and admired. Senta the character is neither relatable nor admirable. I feel only pity for her hallucinations. This book is a difficult read. Perhaps those enjoy streams of consciousness and illicit confessions would enjoy this tale.
5 Stings – The BDSM sex scenes are memorable and phenomenal.
4 Stings – The BDSM scenes are done very well.
3 Stings – The BDSM scenes are mediocre. May or may not contain some minor flaws.
2 Stings – The BDSM were light and just kinky.
1 Stings – Where was the BDSM scenes? Non-existent
5 paddles - Gripping and un-putdownable. Has a place on my keeper shelf. Great chance of re-reading.
4 paddles - Excellent. Highly enjoyable and well-written. But may not be keepers
3 paddles - Average. May or may not contain some minor flaws.
2 paddles - Contains major flaws and needs improvement.
1 paddle - Not enjoyable and wouldn't recommend.
*provided by BDSM Book Reviews
June 7, 2013
I worked on this book for a long time - and then it took a long time to get published because it doesn't fit the genres. Thank you HarperCollins!
Read it with an open mind, and I promise it will take you to places you never visited before. It is adventurous and heartfelt, and it is very real.
It has been called 'Literary Erotica' and 'Not a book but an experience.' It has also been called 'The Fight Club of Erotic Literature'.
Some people feel 'it's the most adventurous book I've ever read, both narrtively and erotically', some are surprised that it is such a deeply felt love story 'although' it is set in the dark and often dangerous world of BDSM. For yet others, it's not BDSM as they know it.
For me, if I leave anything behind, it will be this book.
Thank you for giving it your time and attention.
Read it with an open mind, and I promise it will take you to places you never visited before. It is adventurous and heartfelt, and it is very real.
It has been called 'Literary Erotica' and 'Not a book but an experience.' It has also been called 'The Fight Club of Erotic Literature'.
Some people feel 'it's the most adventurous book I've ever read, both narrtively and erotically', some are surprised that it is such a deeply felt love story 'although' it is set in the dark and often dangerous world of BDSM. For yet others, it's not BDSM as they know it.
For me, if I leave anything behind, it will be this book.
Thank you for giving it your time and attention.
May 15, 2013
This book is written as if it is a journal of self discovery. I found that this book was harder to get into but I was hooked by the middle of chapter 2. If you liked the darker elements of The BDSM in fifty shades of grey then you will enjoy this story very much. It was darker than I'm used to but I found it so interesting, there were parts that were just wow, left me speechless & a little breathless. But there were also parts that made me feel compassion for the characters & even a few tears. I love books that make me feel the emotions of the situation.
A few quotes that I liked from the book:
"Slowly, we are writing our own story"
"…I want to hold you before we die. I want to live with you before we die.’
‘Our time is now.’"
" …I never thought I could have this happiness. You bring me happiness, you will be mine forever.’"
A few quotes that I liked from the book:
"Slowly, we are writing our own story"
"…I want to hold you before we die. I want to live with you before we die.’
‘Our time is now.’"
" …I never thought I could have this happiness. You bring me happiness, you will be mine forever.’"
June 12, 2013
I gave this book a shining 4.5 stars read my review over Bookish Temptations http://bookishtemptations.com/2013/06...
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June 15, 2013
excellent and exquisite. i've never read the experience of a submissive descrbed as well as in this book.
July 9, 2013
A publishing phenomenon in the making
First of all: this is a great book. BookishTemptations called it a masterpiece, and I feel it's not far off. I enjoyed reading it, very much so. But I am astonished that I have a chance to read it, and even more astonished at where I found it.
Is this part of the revival of the Erotica genre that started last year around this time with a very different book?
Contrast and compare:
‘50 shades’ was a publishing phenomenon of astronomic proportions. It wasn’t a very good book. In fact, people said it was so badly written that it would never have been accepted by a traditional publisher. It was an e-book. Readers pushed it, and in the end, of course, a publisher jumped on board and the book appeared in paperback.
According to the author’s bio, Senta Holland’s debut novel ‘Out of the Shadows and into the Darkness’ took four years to be accepted by a publisher, because it was too ‘literary’. It is a very good book, beautifully written. Would such a book even have been published before ’50 Shades’? Or is it only the opening up of the Erotica genre that gave ‘Out of the Shadows’ a chance?
Although published by HarperCollins as part of its Mischief e-book imprint, ‘Out of the Shadows’ spent its first few months in relative obscurity. Then, in June 2013, it suddenly shot to the top.
This is nothing short of sensational: I defy you to find ONE other book in the top 100 Erotica (or even in the top 1,000 but that is more difficult to verify because, unlike the top 100, Amazon does not helpfully collect them all in one place...) that is even remotely like ‘Out of the Shadows’. ’50 Shades’ was really an old-fashioned (ok, VERY old-fashioned) romance novel with poorly understood BDSM elements. ‘Out of the Shadows’ is the real deal, BDSM as a lived sexuality, with complex characters, strong feelings and razor sharp reflections on the Kink culture. As well as real, extremely adventurous and emotionally compelling sex. But that is not even the biggest sensation here.
‘Out of the Shadows’ is a contemporary novel, unconventional in style, structure and language. In the Top 100 Erotica it looks like an art film among ‘straight to DVD’ movies.
In fact it is the kind of book that can not sell, according to received wisdom. (Which, curiously, makes it similar to ’50 Shades’ but for the exact opposite reason...)
So what has made this possible? What has made this kind of book available and accessible to readers?
I am an old skeptic, but I am starting to wonder how far the publishing industry has changed, for real. HarperCollins, daring to be unconventional, even innovative, even if it is only very occasionally may have hit a new trend . Once again, readers are pushing this book. Maybe good books, unconventional books can now sell, even in as unlikely a genre as Erotica.
As a reader, I can now recommend ‘Out of the Shadows’ to you and everyone. What so many reviewers have said here is true: this book will open your mind and the world will look different to you.
First of all: this is a great book. BookishTemptations called it a masterpiece, and I feel it's not far off. I enjoyed reading it, very much so. But I am astonished that I have a chance to read it, and even more astonished at where I found it.
Is this part of the revival of the Erotica genre that started last year around this time with a very different book?
Contrast and compare:
‘50 shades’ was a publishing phenomenon of astronomic proportions. It wasn’t a very good book. In fact, people said it was so badly written that it would never have been accepted by a traditional publisher. It was an e-book. Readers pushed it, and in the end, of course, a publisher jumped on board and the book appeared in paperback.
According to the author’s bio, Senta Holland’s debut novel ‘Out of the Shadows and into the Darkness’ took four years to be accepted by a publisher, because it was too ‘literary’. It is a very good book, beautifully written. Would such a book even have been published before ’50 Shades’? Or is it only the opening up of the Erotica genre that gave ‘Out of the Shadows’ a chance?
Although published by HarperCollins as part of its Mischief e-book imprint, ‘Out of the Shadows’ spent its first few months in relative obscurity. Then, in June 2013, it suddenly shot to the top.
This is nothing short of sensational: I defy you to find ONE other book in the top 100 Erotica (or even in the top 1,000 but that is more difficult to verify because, unlike the top 100, Amazon does not helpfully collect them all in one place...) that is even remotely like ‘Out of the Shadows’. ’50 Shades’ was really an old-fashioned (ok, VERY old-fashioned) romance novel with poorly understood BDSM elements. ‘Out of the Shadows’ is the real deal, BDSM as a lived sexuality, with complex characters, strong feelings and razor sharp reflections on the Kink culture. As well as real, extremely adventurous and emotionally compelling sex. But that is not even the biggest sensation here.
‘Out of the Shadows’ is a contemporary novel, unconventional in style, structure and language. In the Top 100 Erotica it looks like an art film among ‘straight to DVD’ movies.
In fact it is the kind of book that can not sell, according to received wisdom. (Which, curiously, makes it similar to ’50 Shades’ but for the exact opposite reason...)
So what has made this possible? What has made this kind of book available and accessible to readers?
I am an old skeptic, but I am starting to wonder how far the publishing industry has changed, for real. HarperCollins, daring to be unconventional, even innovative, even if it is only very occasionally may have hit a new trend . Once again, readers are pushing this book. Maybe good books, unconventional books can now sell, even in as unlikely a genre as Erotica.
As a reader, I can now recommend ‘Out of the Shadows’ to you and everyone. What so many reviewers have said here is true: this book will open your mind and the world will look different to you.
February 24, 2015
** This review was submitted to all rightful parties PRIOR to posting it to GoodReads. **
For the past year as a reader I thought I could consider all erotic books to be the same. Prior repeats of previous releases and as long as I making such a bold confession I will include that I grew tired of such content. Having finished Out of the Shadows I no longer feel like I had before. This book was not only entirely different than any book I have ever read, but to date it is the best erotic book on the market.
The reasons why is that Holland intertwined a book that has similar traits of what erotic readers expect to find and yet this story is so immensely emotional that at times it left tears in my eyes as Senta, the heroine goes on a journey to find out who she really is. This is why I enjoyed this book so much is because it is a major wake up call. The author walks the readers through this impressive plot of self-discovery and what it means to fall for both love and for lust.
Speaking of lust I loved how the author lead up to the points of the sensual content as such scenes were realistic and not overly extreme to the point that I felt sickened by what I was reading. There is a deep, revolving passion in this book and that makes it standout when comparing it to other erotic authors who simply fill their pages with empty, explicit content that comes out of nowhere.
It is rare to find an author that drives such deep and slightly dark emotions into a book only to have readers like myself offer so much praise as without a doubt lingering Holland is worth such devotion. Together both romance and erotic collide within the pages of this book and the outcome is unforgettable.
Whether or not you are a reader of erotic content or you are not this book should be read. Take the chance on both this book and with Holland and discover what I have upon complexion which is there is a little bit of ourselves hidden within the unfolding pages of Out of the Shadows and into the Darkness.
For the past year as a reader I thought I could consider all erotic books to be the same. Prior repeats of previous releases and as long as I making such a bold confession I will include that I grew tired of such content. Having finished Out of the Shadows I no longer feel like I had before. This book was not only entirely different than any book I have ever read, but to date it is the best erotic book on the market.
The reasons why is that Holland intertwined a book that has similar traits of what erotic readers expect to find and yet this story is so immensely emotional that at times it left tears in my eyes as Senta, the heroine goes on a journey to find out who she really is. This is why I enjoyed this book so much is because it is a major wake up call. The author walks the readers through this impressive plot of self-discovery and what it means to fall for both love and for lust.
Speaking of lust I loved how the author lead up to the points of the sensual content as such scenes were realistic and not overly extreme to the point that I felt sickened by what I was reading. There is a deep, revolving passion in this book and that makes it standout when comparing it to other erotic authors who simply fill their pages with empty, explicit content that comes out of nowhere.
It is rare to find an author that drives such deep and slightly dark emotions into a book only to have readers like myself offer so much praise as without a doubt lingering Holland is worth such devotion. Together both romance and erotic collide within the pages of this book and the outcome is unforgettable.
Whether or not you are a reader of erotic content or you are not this book should be read. Take the chance on both this book and with Holland and discover what I have upon complexion which is there is a little bit of ourselves hidden within the unfolding pages of Out of the Shadows and into the Darkness.
July 12, 2013
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I really struggled with how to rate this book, finally settling on 3.5 stars. I've rounded up because I want to recognize the courage it must have taken Senta to put her deepest feelings out there for all to see.
First of all, I need to say that this book was not at all what I expected. It's not a novel, there is no real plot to speak of and I found it difficult to follow at times. At it's core, it's a story of courage and love, and trying to live your true self. The way it is told takes some adjustment. There are chapters, but there are also headers throughout each chapter, further dividing the stories. The prose reads more like a stream of consciousness than anything else, and each section is almost like a diary entry. It took me a while to really get immersed in the story, but by about half-way I was settled in and really wanted to find out what happened to Senta and her Nai. This is the story of how Senta found the person she believed to be her soul-mate, the person who understood her sexuality the best. This is also a true-life account of living the BDSM lifestyle and the harsh realities of it. I am someone who enjoys reading romance with BDSM elements, but I've always been aware that those elements are more than likely being romanticized and dressed-up for the reader's benefit. This story has not been romanticized - Senta lets us know how she feels being beaten by her Dom (Nai) and how being dominated and humiliated made her feel fulfilled. We really get an inside look at the mind of a sub. What I learned - while a little light play might be fun...I am no sub. I completely respect and admire Senta for giving us this look into her head though, and want to thank her for letting me read the book.
Definitely not for everyone, but if you'd like a realistic look at BDSM you might like this.
I really struggled with how to rate this book, finally settling on 3.5 stars. I've rounded up because I want to recognize the courage it must have taken Senta to put her deepest feelings out there for all to see.
First of all, I need to say that this book was not at all what I expected. It's not a novel, there is no real plot to speak of and I found it difficult to follow at times. At it's core, it's a story of courage and love, and trying to live your true self. The way it is told takes some adjustment. There are chapters, but there are also headers throughout each chapter, further dividing the stories. The prose reads more like a stream of consciousness than anything else, and each section is almost like a diary entry. It took me a while to really get immersed in the story, but by about half-way I was settled in and really wanted to find out what happened to Senta and her Nai. This is the story of how Senta found the person she believed to be her soul-mate, the person who understood her sexuality the best. This is also a true-life account of living the BDSM lifestyle and the harsh realities of it. I am someone who enjoys reading romance with BDSM elements, but I've always been aware that those elements are more than likely being romanticized and dressed-up for the reader's benefit. This story has not been romanticized - Senta lets us know how she feels being beaten by her Dom (Nai) and how being dominated and humiliated made her feel fulfilled. We really get an inside look at the mind of a sub. What I learned - while a little light play might be fun...I am no sub. I completely respect and admire Senta for giving us this look into her head though, and want to thank her for letting me read the book.
Definitely not for everyone, but if you'd like a realistic look at BDSM you might like this.
March 18, 2013
I saw a review about this in Marie Claire, and on the Coffee Cake and Kink website which had me hooked. I ordered the ebook on amazon and whizzed my way through it.
The story has some to and fro in time which I personally like. There are no set chapters, more like small pieces which means it's easy and fast to get through, and also easy to go back to find places you liked or to pick up from.
What was my feeling after reading it? Mmm It made me pretty sad and reflective but, ultimately I felt inspired by the heroine, not your typical 'happy, happy, perfect, unflawed' heroine either.
I am actually surprised it got me thinking so deeply, I wasn't expecting that at all! I spent most of the day after I finished reading it thinking about the main character, what she would be doing now and how her life turned out.
I do agree that it is more literary than trash erotica. I'd like to have the guts the main character does and I hope that I can keep some of her courage and wisdom to apply to my own life! I'd recommend it for sure.
Out of the Shadows and into the Darkness
The story has some to and fro in time which I personally like. There are no set chapters, more like small pieces which means it's easy and fast to get through, and also easy to go back to find places you liked or to pick up from.
What was my feeling after reading it? Mmm It made me pretty sad and reflective but, ultimately I felt inspired by the heroine, not your typical 'happy, happy, perfect, unflawed' heroine either.
I am actually surprised it got me thinking so deeply, I wasn't expecting that at all! I spent most of the day after I finished reading it thinking about the main character, what she would be doing now and how her life turned out.
I do agree that it is more literary than trash erotica. I'd like to have the guts the main character does and I hope that I can keep some of her courage and wisdom to apply to my own life! I'd recommend it for sure.
Out of the Shadows and into the Darkness
July 15, 2013
Finally a book for my generation.
Sophisticated, adventurous and poetic. Yes, poetic.
I have always loved poetry and poetic prose, and I am getting sick and tired of being marketed to, as a member of my generation, as someone who only understands txt or vlogs, or who has the attention span of a microbe and can only be stimulated by the loudest and most basic of effects.
I love ‘Out of the Shadows and into the Darkness’ (I even love the beautifully ambiguous title...) and while I love it (a lot) for its eye opening, and sometimes eye popping BDSM sex scenes, I love it even more for the deeply felt impact they have on the psyche of the heroine, Senta, and her lover, the ‘Nai’. I love it for being outrageously and at the same time very simply a story of erotic self discovery, a journey open to everyone, including me.
But what I love most of all are the poetic (but very sparse and precise) descriptions of the intimacy in Senta’s Seven Bedrooms, the sounds, the silence, the smells, the close ups and overviews, the intensity of each and every moment, the wildness of every touch and the softness of every breath against the skin of a lover.
I am young, I am not jaded and I haven’t experienced it all. To me, life and love are fresh and intense, and I hope it will stay that way for a long time. Senta’s book captures the essence of how I feel.
More please!
Sophisticated, adventurous and poetic. Yes, poetic.
I have always loved poetry and poetic prose, and I am getting sick and tired of being marketed to, as a member of my generation, as someone who only understands txt or vlogs, or who has the attention span of a microbe and can only be stimulated by the loudest and most basic of effects.
I love ‘Out of the Shadows and into the Darkness’ (I even love the beautifully ambiguous title...) and while I love it (a lot) for its eye opening, and sometimes eye popping BDSM sex scenes, I love it even more for the deeply felt impact they have on the psyche of the heroine, Senta, and her lover, the ‘Nai’. I love it for being outrageously and at the same time very simply a story of erotic self discovery, a journey open to everyone, including me.
But what I love most of all are the poetic (but very sparse and precise) descriptions of the intimacy in Senta’s Seven Bedrooms, the sounds, the silence, the smells, the close ups and overviews, the intensity of each and every moment, the wildness of every touch and the softness of every breath against the skin of a lover.
I am young, I am not jaded and I haven’t experienced it all. To me, life and love are fresh and intense, and I hope it will stay that way for a long time. Senta’s book captures the essence of how I feel.
More please!
July 20, 2013
Let me be honest: I like Erotica. I'm an adult.
I like this book, a lot. It moved me to tears, and it showed me places in the erotic journey that I didn’t even know existed – and it showed them to me for real. As the kinds of places I could go myself, if I dared. This book takes the reader seriously. It’s Erotica for adults, in every way. It doesn’t condescend to me, as ‘Mummy Porn’(have mothers lost their intellect?), and it doesn’t trot out the old sexist clichés that even my aunties used to make fun of a long time ago.
This book reflects modern life, and it eflects me, although my erotic journey (so far) hasn’t been anywhere near as adventurous.
I will think about ‘Out of the Shadows’ for a long time after I read the last page. And what a last page...
I like this book, a lot. It moved me to tears, and it showed me places in the erotic journey that I didn’t even know existed – and it showed them to me for real. As the kinds of places I could go myself, if I dared. This book takes the reader seriously. It’s Erotica for adults, in every way. It doesn’t condescend to me, as ‘Mummy Porn’(have mothers lost their intellect?), and it doesn’t trot out the old sexist clichés that even my aunties used to make fun of a long time ago.
This book reflects modern life, and it eflects me, although my erotic journey (so far) hasn’t been anywhere near as adventurous.
I will think about ‘Out of the Shadows’ for a long time after I read the last page. And what a last page...
March 14, 2013
Out of the Shadows, is not what I was expecting. It was a difficult book for me to read, but not because of what you would think. The book sometimes reads like a Calvin Klein commercial. It is written almost like a journal in stream of consciousness. It is not like any narrative that I have read. It may be me, I do not have an English Lit degree and this avant-garde type of novel was a bit confusing. That being said, the book was actually quite interesting. I had to let go of my expectations and tried to look at it from the writer’s perspective and not as a reader.
This book does open the door to the world of a submissive’s mind in the world of BDSM. Prior to my reading of this book the only knowledge I have of the practice is from the erotic novels that I have read. There have been some that are darker than others, but this one, if you can get through the metaphors and poetic repetition, is very different. It talks about the stigma of practicing this lifestyle. It shows that even with books like Fifty Shades of Grey being so popular, there still is a real fear of being ostracized for being non-conventional.
The author describes this lifestyle as essential to who she is and there are few that can understand. In the end we are all different in our likes and dislikes and thank goodness that we all don’t have to be the same. In the end, we are looking for the one that truly get us and loves us, and provides us with what we need whatever that may be. That is the main message that I got out of this story. This novel may be hard to follow at times and I am still unsure if there was a happy ending, but it was a bit eye opening and intriguing.
This book does open the door to the world of a submissive’s mind in the world of BDSM. Prior to my reading of this book the only knowledge I have of the practice is from the erotic novels that I have read. There have been some that are darker than others, but this one, if you can get through the metaphors and poetic repetition, is very different. It talks about the stigma of practicing this lifestyle. It shows that even with books like Fifty Shades of Grey being so popular, there still is a real fear of being ostracized for being non-conventional.
The author describes this lifestyle as essential to who she is and there are few that can understand. In the end we are all different in our likes and dislikes and thank goodness that we all don’t have to be the same. In the end, we are looking for the one that truly get us and loves us, and provides us with what we need whatever that may be. That is the main message that I got out of this story. This novel may be hard to follow at times and I am still unsure if there was a happy ending, but it was a bit eye opening and intriguing.
Read
June 4, 2013I was provided this book free from the author for an honest review.
Firstly, I'd like to thank Senta for the opportunity to read her book as I probably wouldn't have purchased the book & would then have missed out on an interesting reading experience.
This is a hard book for me to rate because the star rating on Goodreads is so very subjective ... did I like the book? ... not really ... is it a good book deserving of 4 or more stars? ... probably ... hence a review without the star rating.
I found this book so very different from the norm ... it reminded me of a contemporary Daphne du Maurier with verbose, wordy descriptions ... everything was couched in prosy terms ... whilst this makes for a languid, sensual reading experience, I tend to need something a little more up-beat so I can block out the screaming womb fruit & rampaging animals/husband/neighborhood kids ... I use reading (currently) as a quick-fix form of escapism that is legal & doesn't destroy my liver ... this book needed too much concentration for true quick escapism so I tended to read it in nibbles like a fine chocolate that is too rich to consume in one sitting ... because of this, I tended to loose track of where I was in the story & I think that meant I lost the true impact of the book ... perhaps, on a desert island, with no distractions, my experience of the book would be better?
If you are a fan of erotic BDSM like the books written by Cherise Sinclair, then you may find the style of this book not to your taste ... the eroticism is almost made impersonal & clinical because of the 'stream-of-consciousness' way it was written ... if you enjoy reading the classics & have the patience to read a book which is heavy on the descriptions & very wordy, then you'll probably enjoy this book.
Firstly, I'd like to thank Senta for the opportunity to read her book as I probably wouldn't have purchased the book & would then have missed out on an interesting reading experience.
This is a hard book for me to rate because the star rating on Goodreads is so very subjective ... did I like the book? ... not really ... is it a good book deserving of 4 or more stars? ... probably ... hence a review without the star rating.
I found this book so very different from the norm ... it reminded me of a contemporary Daphne du Maurier with verbose, wordy descriptions ... everything was couched in prosy terms ... whilst this makes for a languid, sensual reading experience, I tend to need something a little more up-beat so I can block out the screaming womb fruit & rampaging animals/husband/neighborhood kids ... I use reading (currently) as a quick-fix form of escapism that is legal & doesn't destroy my liver ... this book needed too much concentration for true quick escapism so I tended to read it in nibbles like a fine chocolate that is too rich to consume in one sitting ... because of this, I tended to loose track of where I was in the story & I think that meant I lost the true impact of the book ... perhaps, on a desert island, with no distractions, my experience of the book would be better?
If you are a fan of erotic BDSM like the books written by Cherise Sinclair, then you may find the style of this book not to your taste ... the eroticism is almost made impersonal & clinical because of the 'stream-of-consciousness' way it was written ... if you enjoy reading the classics & have the patience to read a book which is heavy on the descriptions & very wordy, then you'll probably enjoy this book.
August 12, 2014
I was given this book by the author for an honest review.
I finished this book several days ago, I need to think of what to say. This book was written as a journal and when you are reading the story it reads like a biography the story is unpredictable and very different than other novels I have read. It dives in from the beginning and through the experiences the characters go through you learn who they are. This book explores BDSM and how being a submissive completes this character. You could say you have read this before and I will tell to read this book because you have never explored it like this.
This book explores the feelings and needs a submissive has. Why they are driven to be submissive and how participating in this relationship completes them on a cellular level. I never considered how people who are submissive struggle or how difficult it may be to find a match.
When was reading the story what struck me was how her Dom/Nai was sometimes neglectful and uncaring. To me this was odd and I began to feel it was more of a slave relationship.
I thought this was agreed upon but as the story continued I felt these behaviors bothered her as well.
I guess in the end a real " match" is hard to find no matter if you are looking for a love match a BDSM match because you need to always be honest if what you are getting is what you truly need. It is what drives many of us tomtry to find the. One person who completes us.
This story takes you on the journey of self discovery and acceptance and love.
I finished this book several days ago, I need to think of what to say. This book was written as a journal and when you are reading the story it reads like a biography the story is unpredictable and very different than other novels I have read. It dives in from the beginning and through the experiences the characters go through you learn who they are. This book explores BDSM and how being a submissive completes this character. You could say you have read this before and I will tell to read this book because you have never explored it like this.
This book explores the feelings and needs a submissive has. Why they are driven to be submissive and how participating in this relationship completes them on a cellular level. I never considered how people who are submissive struggle or how difficult it may be to find a match.
When was reading the story what struck me was how her Dom/Nai was sometimes neglectful and uncaring. To me this was odd and I began to feel it was more of a slave relationship.
I thought this was agreed upon but as the story continued I felt these behaviors bothered her as well.
I guess in the end a real " match" is hard to find no matter if you are looking for a love match a BDSM match because you need to always be honest if what you are getting is what you truly need. It is what drives many of us tomtry to find the. One person who completes us.
This story takes you on the journey of self discovery and acceptance and love.
April 8, 2022
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
4 stars..
Genre- Erotica/BDSM/Contemporary/Romance
Note- Contains BDSM, sexual situations, coarse/explicit language
At the very beginning of structuring this review, I was wondering whether to type in 'Romance' under the genre section or not. Yet, against a strong inner voice refuting me, I went ahead and did it anyway. But, to be really honest, this book was SO MUCH MORE than erotica or romance.
The words, the writing was haunting and lyrical. The plot doesn't unfold; it flows from start to end.
Senta is a unique protagonist, someone, who caught my fancy early on and as cliche as it may sound, I felt that I was living her life, seeing things her way, feeling what she claimed to feel.
But, let me confess, this book wouldn't be everyone's cup of tea. You should be open minded towards a lot of subjects like Domination and Submission in order to enjoy this book. Or else, you'll never appreciate the beauty of this plot.
As a reader who enjoyed the Fifty Shades Trilogy, this book came as a shock to me. It strips down the glamour of the genre down to the very basics. The depth of the words, the journey hooked me for good.
I couldn't stop thinking about the book even after turning the last page. It made a lasting impression.
Overall- Fast paced, Deep and absolutely beautiful.
Recommended For - Open minded readers, especially those interested in BDSM genre...
4 stars..
Genre- Erotica/BDSM/Contemporary/Romance
Note- Contains BDSM, sexual situations, coarse/explicit language
At the very beginning of structuring this review, I was wondering whether to type in 'Romance' under the genre section or not. Yet, against a strong inner voice refuting me, I went ahead and did it anyway. But, to be really honest, this book was SO MUCH MORE than erotica or romance.
The words, the writing was haunting and lyrical. The plot doesn't unfold; it flows from start to end.
Senta is a unique protagonist, someone, who caught my fancy early on and as cliche as it may sound, I felt that I was living her life, seeing things her way, feeling what she claimed to feel.
But, let me confess, this book wouldn't be everyone's cup of tea. You should be open minded towards a lot of subjects like Domination and Submission in order to enjoy this book. Or else, you'll never appreciate the beauty of this plot.
As a reader who enjoyed the Fifty Shades Trilogy, this book came as a shock to me. It strips down the glamour of the genre down to the very basics. The depth of the words, the journey hooked me for good.
I couldn't stop thinking about the book even after turning the last page. It made a lasting impression.
Overall- Fast paced, Deep and absolutely beautiful.
Recommended For - Open minded readers, especially those interested in BDSM genre...
June 22, 2013
It was a very interesting read..it seemed to take a while to read and get rite into.But it did hold my interest and it was like I had to know how her life turned out so I read it till the end.The love story of these two was so soul bound I felt their attraction for each other come off the pages. I have to say it was a life story that gave me insight.And I believe it shouldn't matter which life style is used in sex or love as long as both parties are on the same page :) no one should be shamed!
June 29, 2014
This is not a tantalising BDSM romance novel, it is not an erotic tale designed to amuse and arouse. It is something more precious. It is a diary, a letter written to the self. It speaks to that core of warmth in some of us which make us who we are, let us live life as deeply as we want. It is about truth and loyalty and courage - not towards others but to yourself in the face of others. The centre of this book is not a love story, or a relationship - it is a woman, it is honour and loyalty, and the choice to be. As such it will remain with me for a long time.
June 6, 2013
Senta Holland’s Out of the Shadows and into the Darkness has to be one of the most unusual novels I have ever read. Part poetry, part stream of consciousness, it is a fascinating story about Senta and Nai’s BDSM relationship. Please click HEREt to read my review in its entirety.
May 8, 2013
Simply beautiful...
August 31, 2013
Probably the best BDSM novel I've ever read.
September 11, 2017
It is a measure of how good a writer is, that I could read this book and be convinced it is a true story of a woman’s search for the man who will understand her deep needs, only to find at the end that it is fiction. Or perhaps it is not? It is a passionate account of an intense BDSM relationship between a 30-something woman from London and an American man, resident in Bangkok, who becomes her Master. The intensity of their relationship develops, as her Nai demands greater and greater levels of submission that Senta is not only prepared to accept, but in fact, craves from him.
I can see from the range of review scores that the book certainly divides opinion. It is a book that some will find too harsh and be unable to finish, while others (and I include myself in this group) who find the intensity of emotion very moving. Only Senta’s Nai can provide the deep submission she has needed all her life. You feel her loneliness and sense of difference in her fruitless search for a man who understands her needs as well as the Bangkok businessman. A moving and powerful book that kept me absorbed and unable to put down.
I can see from the range of review scores that the book certainly divides opinion. It is a book that some will find too harsh and be unable to finish, while others (and I include myself in this group) who find the intensity of emotion very moving. Only Senta’s Nai can provide the deep submission she has needed all her life. You feel her loneliness and sense of difference in her fruitless search for a man who understands her needs as well as the Bangkok businessman. A moving and powerful book that kept me absorbed and unable to put down.
March 21, 2013
I recived this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you!
Its very refreshing to read "real life type" of BDSM stories. Since the 50 Shades of Grey epidemic I felt that some of the BDSM was lost to a poorly written love story.
This book contains essentially seven stories that follow Senta. Where it is not written as a novel but as clips of lives of its characters.
It is a very unique experience to read the mind of a submissive. So many times we read about the Dom's and only getting a sprinkling of the thoughts, hopes, dreams and desires of the submissive.
There was so much emotion though this book.
I am not sure if the ending was what you would call happy.
I truly did enjoy it! Not sure why I let it set on my shelf so long!
Its very refreshing to read "real life type" of BDSM stories. Since the 50 Shades of Grey epidemic I felt that some of the BDSM was lost to a poorly written love story.
This book contains essentially seven stories that follow Senta. Where it is not written as a novel but as clips of lives of its characters.
It is a very unique experience to read the mind of a submissive. So many times we read about the Dom's and only getting a sprinkling of the thoughts, hopes, dreams and desires of the submissive.
There was so much emotion though this book.
I am not sure if the ending was what you would call happy.
I truly did enjoy it! Not sure why I let it set on my shelf so long!
May 15, 2013
This book is going to be hard for me to review because it is not my style of reading normally. It states that it is literary but I believe that I would have to say that it is more poetic. I am not a fan of poetry and so it was hard for me to get into this book. It is well written but I found myself not being able to grasp the overall storyline. It just seemed like a compilation of poetry.
I would have to say that I would recommend this book to people who enjoy erotic poetry.
***book provided by the Publisher through BDSM group TPE BAR Read2Review
I would have to say that I would recommend this book to people who enjoy erotic poetry.
***book provided by the Publisher through BDSM group TPE BAR Read2Review
June 22, 2013
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book wasn't what I was expecting. I went into this book thinking it was going to be completely different. I should have read the reviews before I started to read it. I think I'm going to close it for a while and then dive back in once I'm ready for this type of book. I've ways had a hard time reading poetry and books that have similarities to it, so that could be why I'm having trouble. From the reviews, it sounds great, I just need more "experience."
This book wasn't what I was expecting. I went into this book thinking it was going to be completely different. I should have read the reviews before I started to read it. I think I'm going to close it for a while and then dive back in once I'm ready for this type of book. I've ways had a hard time reading poetry and books that have similarities to it, so that could be why I'm having trouble. From the reviews, it sounds great, I just need more "experience."
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December 19, 2014I did not finish this one so I will not leave a star rating. This is one of those books that is very cerebral... The author would never clearly state something like, "the sky is blue", instead the author would make whimsical and vague remarks about things related to the many shades of blue and how they affect the atmosphere... I dunno! I can't even explain it. I want to like this book but it is not easy reading, it's too poetic and Shakespeare-like. I just want to know what color the sky is and who said/thought what.
October 21, 2013
**ARC Provided by Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for an honest review**
I just could not get on with this book. Its not the subject matter that i had a problem with as i have very diverse tastes, it was the style of writing.
It was more of a literary prose than a novel/story and the first story was very disjointed. I ended up having to put this book down 20% of the way through as i new it wasn't for me.
I just could not get on with this book. Its not the subject matter that i had a problem with as i have very diverse tastes, it was the style of writing.
It was more of a literary prose than a novel/story and the first story was very disjointed. I ended up having to put this book down 20% of the way through as i new it wasn't for me.
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