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Collars and Cuffs #2
Trusting Thomas
"Collars and Cuffs: Book Two"
Christmas is a time for goodwill to all, but Collars and Cuffs co-owner Thomas Williams receives an unexpected gift that chills him to the bone. A Dom from another Manchester club asks Thomas for his help rescuing an abused submissive, Peter Nicholson. Thomas takes in the young man as a favor to a friend, offering space and time to heal, but he makes it clear he s never had a sub and doesn t want one.
Peter finds Thomas s home calm and peaceful, but his past has left him unwilling to trust another Dom. When Thomas doesn t behave as Peter expects, Peter s nightmares begin to fade, and he decides he d like to learn more about D/s life. A well-known trainer of submissives, Thomas begins to teach Peter, but as the new submissive opens up to him, Thomas finds he cares more for Peter than he should. Just as he decides it s time to find a permanent Dom for Peter, they discover Peter s tormentor is still very much a threat. With their lives in danger, Thomas can t deny his feelings for Peter any longer. The question now becomes, can Peter make it out of the lions den alive, so that Thomas can tell his boy that he loves him?
Christmas is a time for goodwill to all, but Collars and Cuffs co-owner Thomas Williams receives an unexpected gift that chills him to the bone. A Dom from another Manchester club asks Thomas for his help rescuing an abused submissive, Peter Nicholson. Thomas takes in the young man as a favor to a friend, offering space and time to heal, but he makes it clear he s never had a sub and doesn t want one.
Peter finds Thomas s home calm and peaceful, but his past has left him unwilling to trust another Dom. When Thomas doesn t behave as Peter expects, Peter s nightmares begin to fade, and he decides he d like to learn more about D/s life. A well-known trainer of submissives, Thomas begins to teach Peter, but as the new submissive opens up to him, Thomas finds he cares more for Peter than he should. Just as he decides it s time to find a permanent Dom for Peter, they discover Peter s tormentor is still very much a threat. With their lives in danger, Thomas can t deny his feelings for Peter any longer. The question now becomes, can Peter make it out of the lions den alive, so that Thomas can tell his boy that he loves him?
282 pages, Paperback
First published October 6, 2013
97 people are currently reading
1115 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Wells
159 books1,862 followersK.C. Wells lives on an island off the south coast of the UK, surrounded by natural beauty. She writes about men who love men, and can’t even contemplate a life that doesn’t include writing.
The rainbow rose tattoo on her back with the words 'Love is Love' and 'Love Wins' is her way of hoisting a flag. She plans to be writing about men in love - be it sweet and slow, hot or kinky - for a long while to come.
If you want to follow her exploits, you can sign up for her monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cNKHlT
You can stalk – er, find – her in the following places:
E-mail: k.c.wells@btinternet.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld
Twitter: @K_C_Wells
Website: https://www.kcwellswrites.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k.c.wells
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-c-w...
And for those who like things a little hotter?
There's KC's alter ego, Tantalus, who writes gay erotica.
The rainbow rose tattoo on her back with the words 'Love is Love' and 'Love Wins' is her way of hoisting a flag. She plans to be writing about men in love - be it sweet and slow, hot or kinky - for a long while to come.
If you want to follow her exploits, you can sign up for her monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cNKHlT
You can stalk – er, find – her in the following places:
E-mail: k.c.wells@btinternet.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld
Twitter: @K_C_Wells
Website: https://www.kcwellswrites.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k.c.wells
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-c-w...
And for those who like things a little hotter?
There's KC's alter ego, Tantalus, who writes gay erotica.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews
April 23, 2017
3.5 stars
Wow. This was such a sweet piece of hurt/comfort story. It was just like reading BDSM 101! I adored Thomas and Peter's relationship, how they both got dropped in a situation where they had no previous experience, how they both stumbled and righted themselves along the hard and tough journey from being virtual strangers to having their sweet, gooey HEA.
I know many readers have commented that their wasn't much BDSM in it. But according to how I view it, there was a lot of the element in the story, just not the type which we are accustomed to. For me, it was like getting down and deep into the inner, deeper workings of how a D/s relationship forms and perseveres, how both the parties involved think and consequently act to gain the trust of their partner, as it is the most important part of any relationship, let alone a D/s one.
As my life has chosen to not let me have time for a relaxed breath currently, I was happy to get to just snuggle and recuperate with such a low-angst read.
Yes, the whole thing with Curtis was somehow blown out of proportion and yet not covered properly, because the buildup to what illegal things Curtis may have been doing was a very encouraged part, the actual reality of it wasn't as shocking as the things he had tortured Peter with. So I feel that that was a rocky patch which could have been corrected.
Also, there were quite a few punctuation mistakes in my copy, which was quite shocking really, as the first book in the series was better edited.
On the concluding note, I am definitely hooked to the series and all the lovely supporting characters (and my favorite couple, Leo and Alex!), and I definitely want to read even more stories, plus, I seem to be in a BDSM dungeon (*wink wink*), so I am thrilled that this book successfully maintained my interest and is sending it forward.
Even though the first book is one which I will definitely revisit, this one didn't come close to that, sadly. :-/
Wow. This was such a sweet piece of hurt/comfort story. It was just like reading BDSM 101! I adored Thomas and Peter's relationship, how they both got dropped in a situation where they had no previous experience, how they both stumbled and righted themselves along the hard and tough journey from being virtual strangers to having their sweet, gooey HEA.
I know many readers have commented that their wasn't much BDSM in it. But according to how I view it, there was a lot of the element in the story, just not the type which we are accustomed to. For me, it was like getting down and deep into the inner, deeper workings of how a D/s relationship forms and perseveres, how both the parties involved think and consequently act to gain the trust of their partner, as it is the most important part of any relationship, let alone a D/s one.
As my life has chosen to not let me have time for a relaxed breath currently, I was happy to get to just snuggle and recuperate with such a low-angst read.
Yes, the whole thing with Curtis was somehow blown out of proportion and yet not covered properly, because the buildup to what illegal things Curtis may have been doing was a very encouraged part, the actual reality of it wasn't as shocking as the things he had tortured Peter with. So I feel that that was a rocky patch which could have been corrected.
Also, there were quite a few punctuation mistakes in my copy, which was quite shocking really, as the first book in the series was better edited.
On the concluding note, I am definitely hooked to the series and all the lovely supporting characters (and my favorite couple, Leo and Alex!), and I definitely want to read even more stories, plus, I seem to be in a BDSM dungeon (*wink wink*), so I am thrilled that this book successfully maintained my interest and is sending it forward.
Even though the first book is one which I will definitely revisit, this one didn't come close to that, sadly. :-/
November 30, 2013
4 Stars - very nicely done but I craved a long time for some more romance parts - ...but on the other hand a truly a very moving story
Trusting Thomas is exactly what the title says, a story that is all about trust and confidence to a strong Dom gentlemen. I must admit that I sometimes annoys me a bit over the phenomenon. ~ Enough about that topic. If I can't handle a D/s relationship in romances, it's easy for me to stop reading such books. But, I would not, because there is something alluring and magical about them too. The unknown...
This is about a very damaged soul, Peter 26 who ends up living and be cared for by a thirty year older very experienced Master and Dom, Thomas 56 (we meet him shortly in the first book An Unlocked Heart too, as the colleague to that main character Leo). The popular and well-known Master Thomas is one of the owners of a reputable BDSM club (but really it is just a background for it is very little, hardly any BDSM play here).
I must point out that the thirty-year age difference never bothered me. I think all love is possible. Sometimes it can be good with a more experienced hand.
I enjoyed the first book in this series a lot (An Unlocked Heart, my review - 4 stars, about the nowadays cute lovebirds Leo & Alex - who also show up here quite often), but it was more a traditional love story. Two men meet, it gets hot, the romance is flourishing and we reach eternal love at the end after various clutter and confusion. This second book was more a memorable novel about an injured man.
Peter's past adult life and story is terrible. Among the worse I have ever experienced in a novel - it was all founded on coercion and threats and Peter are completely broken both mentally and physically when this novel begin. So Trusting Thomas describes more a damaged souls way toward healing and the courage to live a real life again. Less about two men in love, lust, hot scenes, etc. ...and I must admit that I missed a little romance feeling here - even if it obviously came at last.
...It gets a little Brother Good / Splendid Master Dom and his puny, scared little protege (almost like the ugly duckling in Duck!, I recently read about). We will see a swan born with the support of a big strong male.
My other complaint is about credibility. Was this believable? No, maybe not in my opinion. I find it hard to believe that a heavily abused (slave almost ..) and cruelly beaten, frightened young man should immediately begin training to perhaps become a submissiv. - Be trained by a stranger he had never met before!? Thomas is indeed an saving angel and a very nice and credible man. But still? I want to atleast say if anyone is wondering: it is no BDSM playing before Peter feels slightly better and become stronger mentally.
Otherwise a very, very enjoyable reading. Well written with wonderful characters and so nicely and tenderly told. I really loved these two men and wished them all the luck in the world. In the end, it was also really creeping exciting and scary dramatically. The plot as a whole is good and I really hated this disgusting enemy (..Peter's former tormentor). A napkin and handkerchief warning every now and then!!
A cosy and very strong emotional novel ...eventually it became a steamy romance but it took time. Both good and bad from me about this story. Despite a bit of whining, I would still eventually point out that this IS is in many parts a great novel. I fell in love for these men, their struggles and many tough obstacles and sighed reverently and happy at the end. Look forward to read more books in the series (if it will be more?) and other books by this talented writer.
I LIKE - a tender D/s story - about deep scars and big trust
Trusting Thomas is exactly what the title says, a story that is all about trust and confidence to a strong Dom gentlemen. I must admit that I sometimes annoys me a bit over the phenomenon. ~ Enough about that topic. If I can't handle a D/s relationship in romances, it's easy for me to stop reading such books. But, I would not, because there is something alluring and magical about them too. The unknown...
This is about a very damaged soul, Peter 26 who ends up living and be cared for by a thirty year older very experienced Master and Dom, Thomas 56 (we meet him shortly in the first book An Unlocked Heart too, as the colleague to that main character Leo). The popular and well-known Master Thomas is one of the owners of a reputable BDSM club (but really it is just a background for it is very little, hardly any BDSM play here).
I must point out that the thirty-year age difference never bothered me. I think all love is possible. Sometimes it can be good with a more experienced hand.
I enjoyed the first book in this series a lot (An Unlocked Heart, my review - 4 stars, about the nowadays cute lovebirds Leo & Alex - who also show up here quite often), but it was more a traditional love story. Two men meet, it gets hot, the romance is flourishing and we reach eternal love at the end after various clutter and confusion. This second book was more a memorable novel about an injured man.
‘Peter blinked. “Isn't that why you brought your friend round here? So I could service him?” His voice quavered.’
Peter's past adult life and story is terrible. Among the worse I have ever experienced in a novel - it was all founded on coercion and threats and Peter are completely broken both mentally and physically when this novel begin. So Trusting Thomas describes more a damaged souls way toward healing and the courage to live a real life again. Less about two men in love, lust, hot scenes, etc. ...and I must admit that I missed a little romance feeling here - even if it obviously came at last.
...It gets a little Brother Good / Splendid Master Dom and his puny, scared little protege (almost like the ugly duckling in Duck!, I recently read about). We will see a swan born with the support of a big strong male.
“Thomas, you've trained both Doms and subs. Show Peter how a Dom should be, how you train a Dom to be. (...)”
My other complaint is about credibility. Was this believable? No, maybe not in my opinion. I find it hard to believe that a heavily abused (slave almost ..) and cruelly beaten, frightened young man should immediately begin training to perhaps become a submissiv. - Be trained by a stranger he had never met before!? Thomas is indeed an saving angel and a very nice and credible man. But still? I want to atleast say if anyone is wondering: it is no BDSM playing before Peter feels slightly better and become stronger mentally.
Otherwise a very, very enjoyable reading. Well written with wonderful characters and so nicely and tenderly told. I really loved these two men and wished them all the luck in the world. In the end, it was also really creeping exciting and scary dramatically. The plot as a whole is good and I really hated this disgusting enemy (..Peter's former tormentor). A napkin and handkerchief warning every now and then!!
..it was a lot of "snuggle up on the sofa"
and a lot of tea drinking
A cosy and very strong emotional novel ...eventually it became a steamy romance but it took time. Both good and bad from me about this story. Despite a bit of whining, I would still eventually point out that this IS is in many parts a great novel. I fell in love for these men, their struggles and many tough obstacles and sighed reverently and happy at the end. Look forward to read more books in the series (if it will be more?) and other books by this talented writer.
I LIKE - a tender D/s story - about deep scars and big trust
October 8, 2013
I do love me an older, urbane, honourable, slightly old-fashioned British Dom, and Thomas makes a good one. Wells does make Peter grow and rise above his woobiedom, but I thought he was a bit of a blank slate, and never found him half as interesting as Thomas.
I thought the climax should have been extended; it was over too soon, and there didn't appear to be any serious threat to our MCs.
Overall this is perhaps a book best for those who haven't read too much in the genre.
I thought the climax should have been extended; it was over too soon, and there didn't appear to be any serious threat to our MCs.
Overall this is perhaps a book best for those who haven't read too much in the genre.
November 28, 2017
4 Stars
Peter was Curtis’s sub for four years; four years of torturing, of humiliation, of hurting… when Curtis chose Peter as his sub, Peter didn’t know anything about Dom/sub relations and Curtis promised him to teach him everything but the thing was Curtis didn’t know anything himself and all he thought to Peter was pain. Steven saw all of this and decided to save Peter. So he kidnapped him and then he handed Peter to Thomas to train him as a sub for real this time but after four years of hurting it was difficult for Peter to trust anyone. Besides this trusting issue, after Peter was kidnapped Curtis was searching for him… but Thomas wasn’t going to loose Peter so easily and at the same time he was at war with himself not to attract to him (because of his age).
This one was a slow burn one because as you see Peter first must be trust to Thomas and it takes a bit too much time. But I liked how Thomas tried to gain his trust. There is a huge age gap (thirty years) but it wasn’t palpable. My only complaint is the ending was a bit rush. I liked to read more about them after they come clean with each other! Told in multiple POV, 3rd person. It’s the second installment in the "Collars and Cuffs" series and I’m looking forward to reading the next book. Overall, I really enjoyed it and hope you like it as well!
Peter was Curtis’s sub for four years; four years of torturing, of humiliation, of hurting… when Curtis chose Peter as his sub, Peter didn’t know anything about Dom/sub relations and Curtis promised him to teach him everything but the thing was Curtis didn’t know anything himself and all he thought to Peter was pain. Steven saw all of this and decided to save Peter. So he kidnapped him and then he handed Peter to Thomas to train him as a sub for real this time but after four years of hurting it was difficult for Peter to trust anyone. Besides this trusting issue, after Peter was kidnapped Curtis was searching for him… but Thomas wasn’t going to loose Peter so easily and at the same time he was at war with himself not to attract to him (because of his age).
This one was a slow burn one because as you see Peter first must be trust to Thomas and it takes a bit too much time. But I liked how Thomas tried to gain his trust. There is a huge age gap (thirty years) but it wasn’t palpable. My only complaint is the ending was a bit rush. I liked to read more about them after they come clean with each other! Told in multiple POV, 3rd person. It’s the second installment in the "Collars and Cuffs" series and I’m looking forward to reading the next book. Overall, I really enjoyed it and hope you like it as well!
October 20, 2013
5 ABSOLUTELY AWESOME STARS!!
The blurb about the book pretty much describes what is happening. It’s never easy to read about someone being abused, and even though you learn in flashbacks and Peter retelling his story, it’s still difficult and heartbreaking. But the stories where the MC overcomes his horrific circumstances are the best, throw in finding an amazing man who helps and falls in love with the MC and i am so there.....with tears in my eyes!!
Now Thomas, OMG SWOON!!! Thomas is co-owner of Collars & Cuffs, and good friends with Leo the other owner (from book 1 An Unlocked Heart). I love this man, he agrees to take care of Peter and train him to be a submissive and show him what a real Dom is. Thomas is patient, loving, steady, comforting and sexy as hell! As Thomas starts to have real feelings for Peter he keeps himself at a distance because he is so much older then Peter.
You will be disappointed if you go into this expecting lots of BDSM sex. While you do get some of this in this story (yes yes, yes), this is a story of abuse, the long journey to healing, trust, acceptance. And we get to see Peter form a friendship with Alex, from An Unlocked Heart. I loved seeing Alex again, another sweetie i fell in love with.
Overall, I will say this plot is not an original one of course, there are plenty of books that tell this type of story. What the author does and how she handles it with her expert writing absolutely grabbed my heart and head. This story did everything is was suppose to do, pulled me into it, made me fall in love with the characters and glued me to my chair. And when I finished I hugged my Kindle and sighed....
The blurb about the book pretty much describes what is happening. It’s never easy to read about someone being abused, and even though you learn in flashbacks and Peter retelling his story, it’s still difficult and heartbreaking. But the stories where the MC overcomes his horrific circumstances are the best, throw in finding an amazing man who helps and falls in love with the MC and i am so there.....with tears in my eyes!!
Now Thomas, OMG SWOON!!! Thomas is co-owner of Collars & Cuffs, and good friends with Leo the other owner (from book 1 An Unlocked Heart). I love this man, he agrees to take care of Peter and train him to be a submissive and show him what a real Dom is. Thomas is patient, loving, steady, comforting and sexy as hell! As Thomas starts to have real feelings for Peter he keeps himself at a distance because he is so much older then Peter.
You will be disappointed if you go into this expecting lots of BDSM sex. While you do get some of this in this story (yes yes, yes), this is a story of abuse, the long journey to healing, trust, acceptance. And we get to see Peter form a friendship with Alex, from An Unlocked Heart. I loved seeing Alex again, another sweetie i fell in love with.
Overall, I will say this plot is not an original one of course, there are plenty of books that tell this type of story. What the author does and how she handles it with her expert writing absolutely grabbed my heart and head. This story did everything is was suppose to do, pulled me into it, made me fall in love with the characters and glued me to my chair. And when I finished I hugged my Kindle and sighed....
February 23, 2016
4 Stars
This is one of the best hurt/comfort stories I've ever had the pleasure of reading.
I absolutely adored Peter. His continuous struggle to overcome the traumas of his past abuse is so utterly heartbreaking. I was brought to tears on several occasions; the emotions here are raw and I felt them intensely. I had to love Thomas' character for no other reason than he continually proves himself to be a good man through his dedication to Peter, in his tireless efforts in helping him heal.
The fact that I enjoyed this book so much, even though it heavily features two tropes I'm renowned for not liking in general, says a lot. Here, the BDSM themes and the massive age-gap between Peter and Thomas (30 years) is but a blimp on my reading radar. This demonstrates how good the writing is, because every aspect of this story has a place and a purpose, disallowing me to take issue with things I'd usually be turned off by.
This is one of the best hurt/comfort stories I've ever had the pleasure of reading.
I absolutely adored Peter. His continuous struggle to overcome the traumas of his past abuse is so utterly heartbreaking. I was brought to tears on several occasions; the emotions here are raw and I felt them intensely. I had to love Thomas' character for no other reason than he continually proves himself to be a good man through his dedication to Peter, in his tireless efforts in helping him heal.
The fact that I enjoyed this book so much, even though it heavily features two tropes I'm renowned for not liking in general, says a lot. Here, the BDSM themes and the massive age-gap between Peter and Thomas (30 years) is but a blimp on my reading radar. This demonstrates how good the writing is, because every aspect of this story has a place and a purpose, disallowing me to take issue with things I'd usually be turned off by.
June 7, 2017
3.5 Stars
Not so much as a whips and chains, nor an erotic kind of tale, this was more about an unlikely pairing between a loner dominant and a severely scarred submissive.
Horrifically abused, Peter is coaxed back to the land of the living and taught that he's something of worth, that the bdsm world is a far cry from what he has been exposed to. In turn, Thomas takes his responsibilities to heart, as he slowly helps Peter heal and comes to realize that he's been neglecting his own happiness for far too long.
So take this as a nice, sedate, slow burn romance that really is all about building and accepting trust. Huge age gap, uber hurt/comfort - this tender, emotional story probably epitomizes what the ideal dom/sub relationship is - complete surrender and care that is reciprocated both ways. Quite lovely.
Not so much as a whips and chains, nor an erotic kind of tale, this was more about an unlikely pairing between a loner dominant and a severely scarred submissive.
Horrifically abused, Peter is coaxed back to the land of the living and taught that he's something of worth, that the bdsm world is a far cry from what he has been exposed to. In turn, Thomas takes his responsibilities to heart, as he slowly helps Peter heal and comes to realize that he's been neglecting his own happiness for far too long.
So take this as a nice, sedate, slow burn romance that really is all about building and accepting trust. Huge age gap, uber hurt/comfort - this tender, emotional story probably epitomizes what the ideal dom/sub relationship is - complete surrender and care that is reciprocated both ways. Quite lovely.
October 17, 2013
I've looked forward to reading Thomas' story from the moment I put down An Unlocked Heart which I loved and have got to say it was well worth the wait. What an enjoyable series this is turning out to be.
Thomas is such a lovely character. Half owner of ' Collars & Cuffs ' a BDSM club in Canal St, Manchester's Gay village, he's a very well respected, experienced Dom and the go to guy if you want to be trained, and that goes for both Doms and subs. When a friend Stephen, who frequents a different BDSM club, notices a young sub being openly physically and mentally abused by a so called fellow Dom ( Curtis- a man rumoured to be untrained, dangerous and cruel ) he takes matters into his own hands by contacting Thomas and asking his advice as to how to get this poor lad Peter out of this guys clutches... the upshot being a plan to rescue him from under Curtis' nose and put him in Thomas' care as Stephen already has a sub and doesn't feel he can give the young man the help he needs, but he knows something drastic has to be done.
And so begins Peters rehabilitation and journey with Thomas as he escapes from the physical and mental torture he's endured under Curtis' domination and learns the true meaning of trust in a D/s relationship, blossoming in the hands of a man who shows him that a true pairing of a Dom and his sub can be a wonderful shared experience.
Thomas is in his mid 50's and as far as he's concerned this thing with Peter is only a temporary thing until he can find a Dom for him who will be perfect for his needs, one who because of Peters trauma would have to be very special and understanding. Of course as time passes and the relationship between the two of them grows and becomes stronger, it becomes very obvious to us and Thomas' friends exactly who that Dom should be but in true m/m style there are some major obstacles and conflicts to get through before the book reaches its satisfying conclusion and its watching how this older man and his poor broken ' Boy' come to that conclusion that makes this story the fabulous read that it is! Alex and Leo play a big part in this story and just reinforce why I loved them so much in book one. There's also a role for Josh's detective dad from the " learning To Love " series.
There's not a great deal of in your face BDSM action going on in this story, more a touch of kink but do you know what? I honestly don't think it matters because the story is such an engaging read that I don't think you miss it and what I personally liked was that this gave me a more informative and understanding insight into the workings of a D/s lifestyle and I actually started to get why it appeals to some people.
As for Peter, who I just wanted to hug all the time because he's gone through so much pain yet is such a sweetie and Thomas who was such a kind and caring Dom.... well I just fell hard for them both, despite the age difference which I must admit normally I'm not a great lover of but in this case was perfect for the plot and it definitely bothered Thomas more than it bothered Peter or me as a reader.
I really loved this and its just made me want to read more about the people connected to this club, in a city that's very familiar to me because I only live a stones throw away and I can picture perfectly as I'm reading the books, so all I can end with is bring on book 3 SOON ....Pretty please! Recommended!
Thomas is such a lovely character. Half owner of ' Collars & Cuffs ' a BDSM club in Canal St, Manchester's Gay village, he's a very well respected, experienced Dom and the go to guy if you want to be trained, and that goes for both Doms and subs. When a friend Stephen, who frequents a different BDSM club, notices a young sub being openly physically and mentally abused by a so called fellow Dom ( Curtis- a man rumoured to be untrained, dangerous and cruel ) he takes matters into his own hands by contacting Thomas and asking his advice as to how to get this poor lad Peter out of this guys clutches... the upshot being a plan to rescue him from under Curtis' nose and put him in Thomas' care as Stephen already has a sub and doesn't feel he can give the young man the help he needs, but he knows something drastic has to be done.
And so begins Peters rehabilitation and journey with Thomas as he escapes from the physical and mental torture he's endured under Curtis' domination and learns the true meaning of trust in a D/s relationship, blossoming in the hands of a man who shows him that a true pairing of a Dom and his sub can be a wonderful shared experience.
Thomas is in his mid 50's and as far as he's concerned this thing with Peter is only a temporary thing until he can find a Dom for him who will be perfect for his needs, one who because of Peters trauma would have to be very special and understanding. Of course as time passes and the relationship between the two of them grows and becomes stronger, it becomes very obvious to us and Thomas' friends exactly who that Dom should be but in true m/m style there are some major obstacles and conflicts to get through before the book reaches its satisfying conclusion and its watching how this older man and his poor broken ' Boy' come to that conclusion that makes this story the fabulous read that it is! Alex and Leo play a big part in this story and just reinforce why I loved them so much in book one. There's also a role for Josh's detective dad from the " learning To Love " series.
There's not a great deal of in your face BDSM action going on in this story, more a touch of kink but do you know what? I honestly don't think it matters because the story is such an engaging read that I don't think you miss it and what I personally liked was that this gave me a more informative and understanding insight into the workings of a D/s lifestyle and I actually started to get why it appeals to some people.
As for Peter, who I just wanted to hug all the time because he's gone through so much pain yet is such a sweetie and Thomas who was such a kind and caring Dom.... well I just fell hard for them both, despite the age difference which I must admit normally I'm not a great lover of but in this case was perfect for the plot and it definitely bothered Thomas more than it bothered Peter or me as a reader.
I really loved this and its just made me want to read more about the people connected to this club, in a city that's very familiar to me because I only live a stones throw away and I can picture perfectly as I'm reading the books, so all I can end with is bring on book 3 SOON ....Pretty please! Recommended!
October 14, 2014
4.5 stars
K.C. Wells is an auto-buy for me. For the most part, I've come to expect the full range of emotions from her books while addressing some serious issues and a very healthy dose of hot sex. This book did not disappoint. I was so engaged in Peter and Thomas when I realized I was more than halfway through the book before there was any sort of sex between the two main characters and I didn't even miss it.
Peter is liberated from the home of Curtis, his so-called dom, after 4 years of abuse. Brought to Thomas, one of the owners of the BDSM club Collars and Cuffs and a well regarded trainer of both doms and subs, 26 year old Peter is scared and broken, not knowing that what he suffered through was in no way a healthy D/s relationship. At 56 years old, Thomas is set in living his life alone, working at the club where he also does his training. He has never had a long term sub and has never shared his home with anyone. When his friend Stephen enlists his help, Thomas intends to heal and train Peter and then find the perfect dom for him.
With help from Leo and Alex (the MC's from An Unlocked Heart), Thomas slowly works to gain Peter's trust and teach him the joy of service to a dom who appreciates it. Peter is placed in therapy with a therapist who is also a submissive. Since Peter is also agoraphobic and fears Curtis hunting him down, he rarely leaves Thomas's home, other than trips to the doctor. Peter also forms a bond with Alex, who he finds he can talk to openly. As the nature of the abuse Peter suffered comes to light, there is still something that he is holding back from the men that hints at some more sinister goings on with Curtis and his associates.
The relationship between Thomas and Peter plays out beautifully. Trust is slowly built, and Thomas does everything he can to encourage Peter's transformation from abused boy to cherished sub, providing him with structure, comfort and purpose for his eventual transfer to a new dom. Throughout the story there is also the undercurrent of suspense. Peter is always wary that Curtis will never let him go and things finally come to a head at the end of the book when Peter realizes that in order to keep the people he loves safe, he will have to come clean about everything that happened with Curtis (with another appearance from DI Saunders from the previous book and the Learning to Love series).
If you are expecting hot and heavy BDSM and sex along the lines of the first story, you are not going to get it here. If, however, you are looking for a hurt/comfort theme, with a slow build and a satisfying relationship between the two main characters, this is a book I would recommend.
K.C. Wells is an auto-buy for me. For the most part, I've come to expect the full range of emotions from her books while addressing some serious issues and a very healthy dose of hot sex. This book did not disappoint. I was so engaged in Peter and Thomas when I realized I was more than halfway through the book before there was any sort of sex between the two main characters and I didn't even miss it.
Peter is liberated from the home of Curtis, his so-called dom, after 4 years of abuse. Brought to Thomas, one of the owners of the BDSM club Collars and Cuffs and a well regarded trainer of both doms and subs, 26 year old Peter is scared and broken, not knowing that what he suffered through was in no way a healthy D/s relationship. At 56 years old, Thomas is set in living his life alone, working at the club where he also does his training. He has never had a long term sub and has never shared his home with anyone. When his friend Stephen enlists his help, Thomas intends to heal and train Peter and then find the perfect dom for him.
With help from Leo and Alex (the MC's from An Unlocked Heart), Thomas slowly works to gain Peter's trust and teach him the joy of service to a dom who appreciates it. Peter is placed in therapy with a therapist who is also a submissive. Since Peter is also agoraphobic and fears Curtis hunting him down, he rarely leaves Thomas's home, other than trips to the doctor. Peter also forms a bond with Alex, who he finds he can talk to openly. As the nature of the abuse Peter suffered comes to light, there is still something that he is holding back from the men that hints at some more sinister goings on with Curtis and his associates.
The relationship between Thomas and Peter plays out beautifully. Trust is slowly built, and Thomas does everything he can to encourage Peter's transformation from abused boy to cherished sub, providing him with structure, comfort and purpose for his eventual transfer to a new dom. Throughout the story there is also the undercurrent of suspense. Peter is always wary that Curtis will never let him go and things finally come to a head at the end of the book when Peter realizes that in order to keep the people he loves safe, he will have to come clean about everything that happened with Curtis (with another appearance from DI Saunders from the previous book and the Learning to Love series).
If you are expecting hot and heavy BDSM and sex along the lines of the first story, you are not going to get it here. If, however, you are looking for a hurt/comfort theme, with a slow build and a satisfying relationship between the two main characters, this is a book I would recommend.
January 8, 2014
Man K.C can write a good book. I wanted to run and grab Peter and hug him and protect him the whole damn book. Just as good as the 1st book. I loved seeing Alex and Leo and them being involved throughout. I loved that Peter had a friend in Alex. I thank Steven for stepping in when he saw what he saw, and actually doing something about it. I heart him just for that alone.
Thomas.. this Dom is amazing, patient, and beautiful. A Dom who trains other Doms and Subs perhaps he needs to be, but wow. How he handled every aspect of Peter was freaking awesome.
Thomas.. this Dom is amazing, patient, and beautiful. A Dom who trains other Doms and Subs perhaps he needs to be, but wow. How he handled every aspect of Peter was freaking awesome.
October 9, 2013
4.5 stars Review written for The Blog of Sid Love.
This story centers around Peter, a 26 year old who has been in an extremely abusive, slavish at times, BDSM relationship with dom Curtis. Another dom, Steven, notices and questions Curtis’ treatment of Peter while attending a party and eventually finds a way to remove Peter from the situation. He turns to his friend Thomas, part owner of Collars & Cuffs, whom we met in book 1.
Thomas is a bit older at 56, but he has a stellar reputation as a trainer of doms and subs and agrees to take on training Peter. I don’t think Thomas quite realized what he was getting into with Peter or the extent of the damage that was done to him previously. But he steps up to the plate and finds alternative ways to help Peter work through his issues. Mostly he provides some structure as Peter gains confidence and becomes more comfortable with BDSM. Turns out that he had the complete opposite understanding of what it was all about, and Thomas begins his training by showing him how things should be.
Peter is a total sweetheart. I wanted to peek in his diary myself just to see what he had gone through in one lump, as opposed to the crumbs we are fed. Curtis was a horrific dom and just not a good person. Peter slowly gets stronger with the help of Thomas, and it is a joy to watch.
Honestly, I felt like there was actually even less BDSM action in this story than in the first. I didn’t actually find that a problem though, as it fit perfectly with this story. Again, this story centers around Peter’s recovery and issues with the actual BDSM taking a back seat. Thomas must find ways to show Peter the lifestyle that don’t involve pain or humiliation, so he turns to toys and other less-invasive methods, and when some of Peter’s issues prevent him from being comfortable outside of the house, Thomas works around that by not taking him to the Club.
These guys both seemed right for each other. One of their biggest obstacles after Peter’s issues was the age gap. Thirty years is a big gap, and the issue comes up more than once. It never really felt like that much while I was reading, so I never had an issue with it myself. For now, these guys make a nice couple where they both need each other for different things. They still have a lot to work through, but they are certainly on the right path. There is very little sex here, but I didn’t miss it. I truly just wanted to see Peter get his life back on track and get past his time with Curtis. Speaking of Curtis, things seemed to wrap up a bit quickly where he was concerned.
It was really nice seeing Leo and Alex again, as happy as they were when we left them in the first book. We meet a few new characters, and I was left wondering and looking forward to who would be next.
February 6, 2025
The “rebirth” ceremony was fucking crazy what do you mean you want to shave ALL the hair off this mans body in front of witnesses??? I mean people work through trauma in different ways sure but wow this made me squirm for some reason. Overall it was fine but definitely could have done without the shaving ritual personally but each to their own
October 8, 2013
ARC Review: Trusting Thomas by K.C. Wells This book pushed all my buttons and made me cry a lot. Partly, I cried in helpless rage when Peter's story comes out bit by bit, and partly in sheer joy from watching this beautifully broken young man flourish under Thomas' capable hands.
So, you had best have tissues at the ready.
I have a thing for the salt and pepper older men. You know, the ones with experience, the ones who are comfortable in their own skin, the ones who make you feel safe as soon as you look at them. Thomas is such a man. Unfortunately, he plays for the other team, but in his book he finds just what he didn't even know he needed.
Peter on the other hand is very damaged - nearly broken by years of abuse at the hands of a sadistic man who shouldn't ever be allowed to call himself a Dom. Still, despite his fears and the brainwashing, Peter has not completely given up hope. It's buried deep, sure, but there's still that little spark inside that ultimately lets him shine brightly by the end.
The writing is engaging and descriptive, exploring the aftermath of abuse, ignorance and explaining the BDSM lifestyle as it flows along, creating gorgeous imagery that brought out all my feelz and left me choked up more than a few times.
I admired Peter's strength in reclaiming his life, I cheered for him whenever he took a new step forward, and I was overjoyed for both Peter and Thomas at the end.
What could have been done better was the resolution to the Curtis situation. It seemed over too quickly and too cleanly, which I suppose, for escape from reality's sake, wasn't too bad. I was on the edge of my seat as it was, so it's not like I minded terribly when the bad guys went to jail rather quickly.
I must also question the existence of the leaking butthole and refer to my friend who tells me there's no such thing. Though, I suppose it could be argued that after years of sexual abuse in Peter's case, perhaps the sphincter does not shut as tightly as it should (contradicted when Thomas exclaims how very tight Peter is), even though that would still require gravity (and thus standing up) for the few ounces of cum to leak at all.
Either way, I've come to expect such inaccuracies in a lot of M/M romances, and they don't distract me from my enjoyment of this book. There were scenes that were so utterly gorgeous and emotional, they took my breath away. I felt cherished just by reading about how delicately and conscientiously Thomas takes care of the frightened rabbit Peter and does whatever he can to make the scared man feel safe. That alone was worth reading this book.
I received a free ARC from Dreamspinner Press. A positive review was not promised in return.
So, you had best have tissues at the ready.
I have a thing for the salt and pepper older men. You know, the ones with experience, the ones who are comfortable in their own skin, the ones who make you feel safe as soon as you look at them. Thomas is such a man. Unfortunately, he plays for the other team, but in his book he finds just what he didn't even know he needed.
Peter on the other hand is very damaged - nearly broken by years of abuse at the hands of a sadistic man who shouldn't ever be allowed to call himself a Dom. Still, despite his fears and the brainwashing, Peter has not completely given up hope. It's buried deep, sure, but there's still that little spark inside that ultimately lets him shine brightly by the end.
The writing is engaging and descriptive, exploring the aftermath of abuse, ignorance and explaining the BDSM lifestyle as it flows along, creating gorgeous imagery that brought out all my feelz and left me choked up more than a few times.
I admired Peter's strength in reclaiming his life, I cheered for him whenever he took a new step forward, and I was overjoyed for both Peter and Thomas at the end.
What could have been done better was the resolution to the Curtis situation. It seemed over too quickly and too cleanly, which I suppose, for escape from reality's sake, wasn't too bad. I was on the edge of my seat as it was, so it's not like I minded terribly when the bad guys went to jail rather quickly.
I must also question the existence of the leaking butthole and refer to my friend who tells me there's no such thing. Though, I suppose it could be argued that after years of sexual abuse in Peter's case, perhaps the sphincter does not shut as tightly as it should (contradicted when Thomas exclaims how very tight Peter is), even though that would still require gravity (and thus standing up) for the few ounces of cum to leak at all.
Either way, I've come to expect such inaccuracies in a lot of M/M romances, and they don't distract me from my enjoyment of this book. There were scenes that were so utterly gorgeous and emotional, they took my breath away. I felt cherished just by reading about how delicately and conscientiously Thomas takes care of the frightened rabbit Peter and does whatever he can to make the scared man feel safe. That alone was worth reading this book.
I received a free ARC from Dreamspinner Press. A positive review was not promised in return.
October 21, 2013
I was dying to read the second installment of the Collars & Cuffs series and finally getting to know Thomas, Leo's friend and co-owner of Collars & Cuffs.
Trusting Thomas is about 26 years old Peter, who has been in an extremely abusive relationship with his Dom Curtis. Steven, another Dom and friend of Thomas, questions Curtis’ treatment of Peter and risks literally his neck to free Peter from Curtis' clutches.
Thomas, an experienced trainer of Doms and subs, agrees to take Peter in and train him. He has never trained a submissive as damaged as Peter, and there are times he just doesn't know what to do next. He's so gentle and kind with Peter and starts a routine for him to build up trust.
Peter's rebirth-experience is so emotional written... words fail me to describe this scene properly. Thomas is exactly what Peter needs, a gentle Dom who shows him what a sub really is and that he is worth to be cherished and loved.
A very special part of the story is that while Thomas saves Peter, Peter also saves Thomas with filling his life and home with love and warmth. This is clearly a relationship with give and take on both sides.
If you are looking for a BDSM story based on bondage/pain/humiliation this one isn't the right book for you. Trusting Thomas focuses more on submission through service, obedience and trust, but not pain. Because Peter has had more than enough of that.
The significant age difference between Thomas and Peter wasn't a big deal for me and it's obvious that Peter doesn't care. :)
I loved meeting Leo and Alex again. Especially the close friendship Peter and Alex are forming is lovely to watch.
Trusting Thomas is a journey of recovery, discovery and love. I look forward to seeing what comes next in the Collars & Cuffs series.
Thanks to my lovely friend Gina for buddy reading with me. :)
January 14, 2016
Overall book rating: 5 Sad stars
Audio book: Narrator - Nick J Russo 5 Stars
Book cover: 0 stars
Once again: Does one of those lads on the cover looks like a 55/56 year old man?????????
This book was so, so, so sad!!!!!. My heart broke for Peter. To have to go through what he went through he deserve peace and happiness. I just wanted to hug him and tell him all will be ok. The amazing part of this book was how Thomas handled everything and every decision regarding Peter health and wellbeing.
I JUST LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!!
Audio book: Narrator - Nick J Russo 5 Stars
Book cover: 0 stars
Once again: Does one of those lads on the cover looks like a 55/56 year old man?????????
This book was so, so, so sad!!!!!. My heart broke for Peter. To have to go through what he went through he deserve peace and happiness. I just wanted to hug him and tell him all will be ok. The amazing part of this book was how Thomas handled everything and every decision regarding Peter health and wellbeing.
I JUST LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!!
January 10, 2020
I've enjoyed K.C. Wells and Parker Williams' Secrets series so much I felt like I really oughta finish the Collars and Cuffs series. I read the first one ages ago and didn't love it. Trusting Thomas was pretty good - better in part to Nick J. Russo's wonderful narration. It's an interesting story, with wonderful characters, and I'm elevating it to four stars thanks to some pretty creative edging scenes.
July 16, 2022
Thomas esta acostumbrado a su vida como entrenador de Doms y subs, pero tambien esta acostumbrado a ayudar a sus Doms o subs cuando estos los necesitan. Asi cuando cuando unos de sus Doms le pide que acoja y ayude en su recuperacion a un sub, no hay forma de que pueda negarse. Pero el sub ha pasado por tantas cosas horribles, que Thomas duda de su capacidad de ayudar a superarlas, y aunque tiene muchas dudas, su atraccion hacia el joven y sus deseos de ayudarlo lo llevan a ir descubriendo poco a porraco su verdadera personalidad y hasta es posible que haya despertado en el sentimientos que nunca habia tenido por otro sub.
Peter estuvo cuatro años para un Dom que lo castigaba y violaba en cada momento. Asi que cuando fue "rescatado" por un par de hombres y llevado a casa de este señor, el esperaba seguir comportandose como lo hacia con su antiguo Dom. Asi que para el fue una enorme sorpresa cuando fue aprendiendo realmente como debia comportarse un Dom y que era lo que se esperaba realmente de el, y que no era absolutamente nada de lo que le habia enseñado su anterior Dom. Pero lo que mas le impresiono, fue la compasion, la paciencia y el amor que su actual Dom le mostraba, asi que no fue ninguna sorpresa para el darse cuenta que se habia enamorado, ahora solo habia que ver si Thomas lo querra mantener.
Peter estuvo cuatro años para un Dom que lo castigaba y violaba en cada momento. Asi que cuando fue "rescatado" por un par de hombres y llevado a casa de este señor, el esperaba seguir comportandose como lo hacia con su antiguo Dom. Asi que para el fue una enorme sorpresa cuando fue aprendiendo realmente como debia comportarse un Dom y que era lo que se esperaba realmente de el, y que no era absolutamente nada de lo que le habia enseñado su anterior Dom. Pero lo que mas le impresiono, fue la compasion, la paciencia y el amor que su actual Dom le mostraba, asi que no fue ninguna sorpresa para el darse cuenta que se habia enamorado, ahora solo habia que ver si Thomas lo querra mantener.
November 10, 2013
This book felt more like a "BDSM 101" course than a novel. It's very informative if you aren't familiar with the lifestyle and are ignorant about the difference between D/s relationships and abuse. Most things I knew already, so it was a bit like taking a refresher course.
I'm not going to lie, the 30 year age difference between Thomas and Peter did bother me a bit at first. I wasn't...disturbed or anything per se. But I'm glad they acknowledged it. And the progression of their feelings for each really showed through the novel, so I felt better about it by the end.
I really liked the steady build to their relationship. Thomas is definitely was Peter needed. I like that there wasn't immediate sex and they had to build up to that with trust and understanding. I also like that Thomas didn't read Peter's diary, but understood what he needed in order to start healing from his trauma. This book seemed oddly fluffy considering the subject matter, but I didn't have a problem with that at all.
Overall, this is a decent read. I think this book would be a good place to start if you're wary about reading books on the D/s lifestyle. It's not dark at all even with the reasons as to how Peter came to be in Thomas' care.
3.5 Stars.
I'm not going to lie, the 30 year age difference between Thomas and Peter did bother me a bit at first. I wasn't...disturbed or anything per se. But I'm glad they acknowledged it. And the progression of their feelings for each really showed through the novel, so I felt better about it by the end.
I really liked the steady build to their relationship. Thomas is definitely was Peter needed. I like that there wasn't immediate sex and they had to build up to that with trust and understanding. I also like that Thomas didn't read Peter's diary, but understood what he needed in order to start healing from his trauma. This book seemed oddly fluffy considering the subject matter, but I didn't have a problem with that at all.
Overall, this is a decent read. I think this book would be a good place to start if you're wary about reading books on the D/s lifestyle. It's not dark at all even with the reasons as to how Peter came to be in Thomas' care.
3.5 Stars.
September 25, 2013
Many nights I sat on Skype with KC Wells talking about this story. It was, in fact, the catalyst for us writing a book together.
If you're looking for a hot and heavy BDSM story, I suggest you look elsewhere. This is a love story that has BDSM elements in it. It's also the story of a man who 'could' have taken advantage of his position with a confused submissive, but instead chooses to help heal him in a caring and logical way.
Thomas is a great character. He's kind, patient, considerate. He doesn't force, he works with you. He's a trainer of Dom and sub alike.
Peter is broken by the actions of another. He believed he didn't have a choice in how he was treated. A daring rescue and meeting the man who will come to show him a new way could potentially change his life.
Will he be able to see past the problems and find his way toward Trusting Thomas?
If you're looking for a hot and heavy BDSM story, I suggest you look elsewhere. This is a love story that has BDSM elements in it. It's also the story of a man who 'could' have taken advantage of his position with a confused submissive, but instead chooses to help heal him in a caring and logical way.
Thomas is a great character. He's kind, patient, considerate. He doesn't force, he works with you. He's a trainer of Dom and sub alike.
Peter is broken by the actions of another. He believed he didn't have a choice in how he was treated. A daring rescue and meeting the man who will come to show him a new way could potentially change his life.
Will he be able to see past the problems and find his way toward Trusting Thomas?
January 19, 2016
Really, really enjoyed reading this! Thomas and Peter just worked so well together - this was just the sweetest romance (with just a little bit kink!). Thomas was exactly what Peter needed, a gentle Dom to show him what a sub really is and that he IS worthy of love - the rebirth scene got me quite emotional!
Also great to see more of Alex and Leo - was lovely to see how Alex has grown and how he helped Peter to come out of himself.
KC is already an auto buy and will definitly continue to be - can't wait for more from the series (and others!).
Easy read - recommended x
**Love that this series is set in Manchester (home), I can picture the places she writes about**
Also great to see more of Alex and Leo - was lovely to see how Alex has grown and how he helped Peter to come out of himself.
KC is already an auto buy and will definitly continue to be - can't wait for more from the series (and others!).
Easy read - recommended x
**Love that this series is set in Manchester (home), I can picture the places she writes about**
January 8, 2014
I enjoyed reading this one ... it was heavily slanted toward hurt/comfort with a lot less sex than its predecessor ... I liked the dynamic and the fact that K.C. Wells didn't imply that psychological trauma can be 'treated' with BDSM (a common mistake I have read in other books) ... there are still fairy-tale-ish overtones to the series that doesn't detract from the stories, if anything, I find it a relief to have an excuse to ignore the incongruities ... if you are looking for a sweet series, heavy on the sugar-kink, then I'd recommend the Collars and Cuffs books highly.
November 2, 2017
Dom to the rescue slowly discovers more and more of the horrific past of a much younger, abused submissive
While most of this story seemed a bit too pat (the "strong and steady Dom gently saves the tortured submissive" theme), the last section significantly raised my interest in the story and the characters. The BDSM elements were important to the plot but generally not ant part of the explicit scenes. In the end, it was definitely a romance with a rescue the abused sub BDSM theme
While most of this story seemed a bit too pat (the "strong and steady Dom gently saves the tortured submissive" theme), the last section significantly raised my interest in the story and the characters. The BDSM elements were important to the plot but generally not ant part of the explicit scenes. In the end, it was definitely a romance with a rescue the abused sub BDSM theme
December 15, 2019
RE-READ: XII 2019
I needed me some Peter/Thomas time ;)
I needed me some Peter/Thomas time ;)
March 21, 2019
Auch der 2. Teil des Collars & Cuffs-Clubs konnte mich wieder begeistern.
Master Thomas Williams, Miteigentümer des Collars & Cuffs, bildet Subs und gelegentlich auch Doms aus. Selber hat er allerdings keinen Sub, da er sich für beziehungsunfähig hält. Als ihn ein befreundeter Dom aus einem anderen Club in Manchester um Hilfe bei der Rettung eines verletzten Subs bittet, stimmt er zu.
Peter Nicholson wurde von seinem sadistischen Dom Curtis schwer misshandelt und missbraucht. Er ist völlig traumatisiert, hat Panikanfälle und benötigt dringend psychologische Hilfe. Erst durch Thomas Anleitung erkennt er, was den Lifestyle eines Subs wirklich ausmacht. Begriffe wie Vertrag und Savewörter sind ihm völlig fremd, denn sein ehemaliger Master hat ihn nur benutzt und versklavt.
Peters grausames Schicksal hat mich berührt, als er zu Thomas kommt ist er ein seelisches und körperliches Wrack. Geduldig und liebevoll gibt ihm Thomas Sicherheit und langsam lernt Peter wieder zu vertrauen. Beide Männer fühlen sich zueinander hingezogen, doch lange Zeit will Thomas das nicht eingestehen, da er sich einredet, dass 30 Jahre Altersunterschied eine dauerhafte Beziehung unmöglich machen. Erst als Curtis Peter aufspürt und entführt, steht er zu seinen Gefühlen.
Die Story hat mir sehr gefallen. Glaubwürdig wurden der schwere Missbrauch und seine Folgen dargestellt. Der BDMS-Anteil ist gering, was bei dem Trauma von Peter nur zu verständlich ist. Auch Alex und Leo aus dem ersten Teil sind wieder dabei, beide erweisen sich als zuverlässige Freunde. Der enthaltene Krimiplot war spannend und gut durchdacht.
Mein Dank geht an Dreamspinner Press für das erhaltene Rezensionsexemplar.
Master Thomas Williams, Miteigentümer des Collars & Cuffs, bildet Subs und gelegentlich auch Doms aus. Selber hat er allerdings keinen Sub, da er sich für beziehungsunfähig hält. Als ihn ein befreundeter Dom aus einem anderen Club in Manchester um Hilfe bei der Rettung eines verletzten Subs bittet, stimmt er zu.
Peter Nicholson wurde von seinem sadistischen Dom Curtis schwer misshandelt und missbraucht. Er ist völlig traumatisiert, hat Panikanfälle und benötigt dringend psychologische Hilfe. Erst durch Thomas Anleitung erkennt er, was den Lifestyle eines Subs wirklich ausmacht. Begriffe wie Vertrag und Savewörter sind ihm völlig fremd, denn sein ehemaliger Master hat ihn nur benutzt und versklavt.
Peters grausames Schicksal hat mich berührt, als er zu Thomas kommt ist er ein seelisches und körperliches Wrack. Geduldig und liebevoll gibt ihm Thomas Sicherheit und langsam lernt Peter wieder zu vertrauen. Beide Männer fühlen sich zueinander hingezogen, doch lange Zeit will Thomas das nicht eingestehen, da er sich einredet, dass 30 Jahre Altersunterschied eine dauerhafte Beziehung unmöglich machen. Erst als Curtis Peter aufspürt und entführt, steht er zu seinen Gefühlen.
Die Story hat mir sehr gefallen. Glaubwürdig wurden der schwere Missbrauch und seine Folgen dargestellt. Der BDMS-Anteil ist gering, was bei dem Trauma von Peter nur zu verständlich ist. Auch Alex und Leo aus dem ersten Teil sind wieder dabei, beide erweisen sich als zuverlässige Freunde. Der enthaltene Krimiplot war spannend und gut durchdacht.
Mein Dank geht an Dreamspinner Press für das erhaltene Rezensionsexemplar.
May 19, 2014
3.5 Stars
Even thought this book is the second in the Collars & Cuffs series, it can definitely be read as a standalone too.
I have to say that this book didn't work as well for me as the first book did. I think I just connected to Leo and Alex more. Also, even though I loved the romance, the first 60% of the book was very slow moving. Sometimes there were chapters just all about Peter's new responsibilities. I mean there's only so much you can read about a character cooking and cleaning and ironing. I started to get pretty bored to be honest. However, the last 20% of the book is what won me over, seeing Peter and Thomas finally both admitting what they want was worth the wait.
We had already met Thomas in the first book. We know that he is an older man, 56, and that he had trained Doms and Subs to the highest standard for decades. But what we didn't know was just how lonely he has become. I don't think he even realised he was lonely until Peter was moved into his home. Until someone needed him again.
Peter is a really wonderful character too. We meet him at the lowest point in his life. He was a young man, a virgin trying to find his way in the Dom/Sub world after being abandoned by his family when they realised he was gay... he was targeted by a wolf in sheep’s clothing and has been held captive ever since. He has been held hostage, mentally and physically abused and all of it has been labelled as what a Dom/Sub relationship is all about. His mind has been conditioned to think that this is all he will ever be worth...
”How can you say that? Of course it was important. You hurt yourself.”
“But I don't matter, Sir.” Thomas caught his breath. That simple statement bought him to a swift understanding of his new submissive. The boy thought himself worthless. Of no value. To anyone.'
So when Peter is rescued and taken to Thomas to be cared for and shown what Doms and Subs are really all about, he flourishes, knowing that this is the life he had been seeking and that it's been out there all along.
'He lifted the boys chin with his hand and cupped his cheek. “You are beautiful, boy. Inside and out. When you believe that, it will be the greatest gift you can give to me, because it means I will have trained you well.”
Thomas definitely struggled more with the thirty year age gap. It was hard for Thomas to accept that Peter could ever want him, seeing as he was old enough to be his father. He felt selfish for thinking of keeping Peter, he wanted to send him to another suitable Dom, one that could give him a fuller life. But in the end they both discovered that nothing could keep them apart...
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a really touching, slow-burning romance, with a lovely HEA to sweeten the deal.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Review can also be found at -
Even thought this book is the second in the Collars & Cuffs series, it can definitely be read as a standalone too.
I have to say that this book didn't work as well for me as the first book did. I think I just connected to Leo and Alex more. Also, even though I loved the romance, the first 60% of the book was very slow moving. Sometimes there were chapters just all about Peter's new responsibilities. I mean there's only so much you can read about a character cooking and cleaning and ironing. I started to get pretty bored to be honest. However, the last 20% of the book is what won me over, seeing Peter and Thomas finally both admitting what they want was worth the wait.
We had already met Thomas in the first book. We know that he is an older man, 56, and that he had trained Doms and Subs to the highest standard for decades. But what we didn't know was just how lonely he has become. I don't think he even realised he was lonely until Peter was moved into his home. Until someone needed him again.
Peter is a really wonderful character too. We meet him at the lowest point in his life. He was a young man, a virgin trying to find his way in the Dom/Sub world after being abandoned by his family when they realised he was gay... he was targeted by a wolf in sheep’s clothing and has been held captive ever since. He has been held hostage, mentally and physically abused and all of it has been labelled as what a Dom/Sub relationship is all about. His mind has been conditioned to think that this is all he will ever be worth...
”How can you say that? Of course it was important. You hurt yourself.”
“But I don't matter, Sir.” Thomas caught his breath. That simple statement bought him to a swift understanding of his new submissive. The boy thought himself worthless. Of no value. To anyone.'
So when Peter is rescued and taken to Thomas to be cared for and shown what Doms and Subs are really all about, he flourishes, knowing that this is the life he had been seeking and that it's been out there all along.
'He lifted the boys chin with his hand and cupped his cheek. “You are beautiful, boy. Inside and out. When you believe that, it will be the greatest gift you can give to me, because it means I will have trained you well.”
Thomas definitely struggled more with the thirty year age gap. It was hard for Thomas to accept that Peter could ever want him, seeing as he was old enough to be his father. He felt selfish for thinking of keeping Peter, he wanted to send him to another suitable Dom, one that could give him a fuller life. But in the end they both discovered that nothing could keep them apart...
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a really touching, slow-burning romance, with a lovely HEA to sweeten the deal.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Review can also be found at -
July 18, 2016
I have mixed feelings on this story in the Collars and Cuffs series. This story has two main characters who are from different generations and follows the May/December trope. Thomas, who we met in book one of the Collars and Cuffs Series, is a Dom who is a little older than the other Dom’s of the Collars and Cuffs club. Thomas has been a Dom for years, and he now runs Collars and Cuffs with his friend Leo Hart. Thomas is respected in the BDSM scene and having been active in the scene for many years he has trained many submissive’s and Doms. However, this training was always for other people as he has never taken on a submissive.
Peter is in his early twenties and has just fled from an abusive and sadistic man who called himself a Dom. Peter is seeking refuge and is all alone. Thomas is asked to help Peter by an acquaintance and agrees to allow Peter to move into his home while he gets back on his feet. After Peter and Thomas start getting to know each other, Thomas is able to see that Peter has definite submissive tendencies and that he needs the structure a Dom can provide. After lengthy discussions Thomas agrees to train Peter as a submissive, however he makes it clear he is only training him – not taking him on as his submissive.
I have to be honest and admit that while I love this series, this is the one story out of all of them that I just couldn’t fully connect with nor enjoy. I simply couldn’t get past the 30+ year age difference between Thomas and Peter. However, I can appreciate that the story was well written and overall it adds to the Collars and Cuffs series. In this story we are given background on Thomas, we see him in action, and we watch as the Collars and Cuffs family continues to grow. It was heartwarming watching Peter learn to trust and develop feelings after overcoming his traumatic past. I also enjoyed seeing and meeting other characters from the club. In the audio-book version of this story, Nick J. Russo does an excellent job bringing the story to life. His cadence, tone, and inflection are spot on. I always enjoy stories where Nick narrates.
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*Review Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
Peter is in his early twenties and has just fled from an abusive and sadistic man who called himself a Dom. Peter is seeking refuge and is all alone. Thomas is asked to help Peter by an acquaintance and agrees to allow Peter to move into his home while he gets back on his feet. After Peter and Thomas start getting to know each other, Thomas is able to see that Peter has definite submissive tendencies and that he needs the structure a Dom can provide. After lengthy discussions Thomas agrees to train Peter as a submissive, however he makes it clear he is only training him – not taking him on as his submissive.
I have to be honest and admit that while I love this series, this is the one story out of all of them that I just couldn’t fully connect with nor enjoy. I simply couldn’t get past the 30+ year age difference between Thomas and Peter. However, I can appreciate that the story was well written and overall it adds to the Collars and Cuffs series. In this story we are given background on Thomas, we see him in action, and we watch as the Collars and Cuffs family continues to grow. It was heartwarming watching Peter learn to trust and develop feelings after overcoming his traumatic past. I also enjoyed seeing and meeting other characters from the club. In the audio-book version of this story, Nick J. Russo does an excellent job bringing the story to life. His cadence, tone, and inflection are spot on. I always enjoy stories where Nick narrates.
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*Review Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
July 22, 2016
"One day you will see things differently. One day you'll awaken to sunshine, not just in your room but in your heart, and you'll be able to step out of the shadows, to become the person you were meant to be."
The character of Peter was beautifully written,so broken and sad. It was wonderful to watch his blossoming under the tender care of Thomas and the friendship provided by Alex.
Peter's view of submission was warped by his experience with a cruel and uncaring man. Peter knew where his natural inclinations lay but his trust was abused until he lived a life in fear.
The story is very focused on Peter's emotional healing, his learning to trust and ultimately learning to love while giving himself to a man who loves him in return.
Thomas is the man to meet all of Peter's needs but it takes Thomas a while to come to that realisation. He is fearful of the significant age gap between Peter and himself and has been alone for so long that the club had become his focus. Thank goodness for good friends to help him see the light!
Abuse, emotion, submission, sex, love, friendship, drama...this book was a wonderful continuation of the series!
Another thing I did like was the small cross-over with the Learning to Love series characters. Detective Inspector Mark Saunders appears in this book and there is reference to his son Josh and his housemate Daniel - Daniel helpfully lent DI Saunders a cock-ring to fit out as a listening device! :) Make sure you check out my review of that series. Josh's story can be found here.
I publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
January 15, 2016
4.5
I have to agree...I don’t like the covers on the series. But I’m glad I gave it a shot.
This was a sad story with a HEA. I enjoyed it very much. So I don’t really want to say the following with the eye on being critical. It’s just a thought of mine. In my opinion, the Dom/sub relationship, especially in the emotional part of the series maybe could have been a little deeper? Stronger?
Again, I’ve been spoiled by reading a series where this particular aspect in my humble opinion was done really well. But that’s what I like about the BDSM genre, the connection and the deeper meaning. Not just the kink. So I'm not basing my rating on the quality of the BDSM aspect but simply because I enjoyed it at the given moment.
This series doens’t concentrate on the kink that much at all, which is not a good or a bad thing really it’s just the tempo of the series and I enjoyed it this far. What I really like about this series will be the emotional tie between the D and S. It makes it MORE. So it’s an added bones to the “hot’ stuff.
I have to agree...I don’t like the covers on the series. But I’m glad I gave it a shot.
This was a sad story with a HEA. I enjoyed it very much. So I don’t really want to say the following with the eye on being critical. It’s just a thought of mine. In my opinion, the Dom/sub relationship, especially in the emotional part of the series maybe could have been a little deeper? Stronger?
Again, I’ve been spoiled by reading a series where this particular aspect in my humble opinion was done really well. But that’s what I like about the BDSM genre, the connection and the deeper meaning. Not just the kink. So I'm not basing my rating on the quality of the BDSM aspect but simply because I enjoyed it at the given moment.
This series doens’t concentrate on the kink that much at all, which is not a good or a bad thing really it’s just the tempo of the series and I enjoyed it this far. What I really like about this series will be the emotional tie between the D and S. It makes it MORE. So it’s an added bones to the “hot’ stuff.
dnf-not-4-me
October 11, 2014Since I wasn't a big fan of the first book An Unlocked Heart, I am going to go ahead and skip this one since there are so many other books out there that I am dying to read. But this book and An Unlocked Heart are in the cumulative 4+ star rating range, so please, have a look at some reviews if it interests you!!
November 30, 2013
This was an excellent follow up to the first book in the series, An Unlocked Heart. I really, really liked Thomas and just adored Peter. My heart broke for him in the beginning, and I loved how Thomas took care of him and helped him heal. I also liked that Leo and Alex were in the sequel too. Great writing, wonderful characters, and just a solid, great read! I hope there is more as I really, really enjoyed these first two.
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