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Masters of the Castle #4
Dangerous Science
Dedicated scientist Gladys DeWalt is a rising star in a Victorian community of scholars and explorers influenced as much by politics as discovery. So when her highly touted mission to excavate a legendary shipwreck ends in devastating failure, the Council of Scholars deals her another devastating blow.
Stripped of her title, she's demoted to status of Intellectual Ward and placed under the authority of Sebastian Cromwell, a former professor she remembers as stern and exacting. Gladys feared Cromwell as a student, and fears him more since his accident and transformation as part automaton by rogue scientist Nigel Longbridge. Cromwell may look and function like a man, but he's as cold and clinical as the gears under his skin. He takes Gladys on to settle an old debt, but informs her from the outset that he will not brook any disobedience or disrespect. When Gladys defies him, she is punished.
But under Cromwell's stern demeanor is the lingering shadow of humanity, and as the dashing automaton comes to admire his ward's intelligence and drive, he begins to question what really caused her mission's failure. What he discovers will shake the Council of Scholars to its core and give Gladys a chance to redeem her name and win the love of a man who thought he was now beyond emotional connection.
Stripped of her title, she's demoted to status of Intellectual Ward and placed under the authority of Sebastian Cromwell, a former professor she remembers as stern and exacting. Gladys feared Cromwell as a student, and fears him more since his accident and transformation as part automaton by rogue scientist Nigel Longbridge. Cromwell may look and function like a man, but he's as cold and clinical as the gears under his skin. He takes Gladys on to settle an old debt, but informs her from the outset that he will not brook any disobedience or disrespect. When Gladys defies him, she is punished.
But under Cromwell's stern demeanor is the lingering shadow of humanity, and as the dashing automaton comes to admire his ward's intelligence and drive, he begins to question what really caused her mission's failure. What he discovers will shake the Council of Scholars to its core and give Gladys a chance to redeem her name and win the love of a man who thought he was now beyond emotional connection.
124 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2014
81 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
February 25, 2014
When the proud fall, they land hard. Gladys DeWalt is a shining star who is rapidly falling out of the sky. She's a scientist whose mission failed and her punishment is to not only be demoted but re-assigned to a new mentor: Sebastian Cromwell. Sebastian taught Gladys at one point and his strict requirements and high expectations frightened Gladys. To be completely under his thumb again is more than she can bear.
Ms. Swann is a new to me author and she shows great potential. She creates an interesting steampunk world. She captures the Victorian society and mixes it just right with guilds and steam driven machinery. Hopefully there will be more in this world so she can expand upon the world she's built so far.
Her characters are well done. Gladys is easily understandable. She is flawed just right for this story to work. Sebastian is a perfect balance for her headstrong impulsive behaviour. Incorporating domestic discipline into this story enhances a reader's enjoyment. The attention to detail Ms. Swann uses in her descriptions of Sebastian's Library as well as the underworld to Nigel's secret laboratory is divine. She incorporates more than just sight. Her description of scent helps make these places vivid and come alive.
The undercurrent of erotica through the disciplining spankings is so delicious. Seeing Gladys being corrected is so good. She needs maintenance spankings and perhaps a good figging! Sebastian is a sexy stoic character. He is logical and exudes a dominant presence. Even his mechanical body parts is attractive.
The story does feel rushed to a conclusion. From the point of the villain's plot revealed to the resolution, it moves fast and concludes too quickly. A couple of the secondary characters seemed to be left hanging. They were mentioned in a way that made them important yet when it came to the resolution of the story, their contribution fizzled out. This yields a 3.5 star rating.
This steampunk romance is recommended for domestic discipline lovers.
*I received this book as a review copy in return for an honest review
Ms. Swann is a new to me author and she shows great potential. She creates an interesting steampunk world. She captures the Victorian society and mixes it just right with guilds and steam driven machinery. Hopefully there will be more in this world so she can expand upon the world she's built so far.
Her characters are well done. Gladys is easily understandable. She is flawed just right for this story to work. Sebastian is a perfect balance for her headstrong impulsive behaviour. Incorporating domestic discipline into this story enhances a reader's enjoyment. The attention to detail Ms. Swann uses in her descriptions of Sebastian's Library as well as the underworld to Nigel's secret laboratory is divine. She incorporates more than just sight. Her description of scent helps make these places vivid and come alive.
The undercurrent of erotica through the disciplining spankings is so delicious. Seeing Gladys being corrected is so good. She needs maintenance spankings and perhaps a good figging! Sebastian is a sexy stoic character. He is logical and exudes a dominant presence. Even his mechanical body parts is attractive.
The story does feel rushed to a conclusion. From the point of the villain's plot revealed to the resolution, it moves fast and concludes too quickly. A couple of the secondary characters seemed to be left hanging. They were mentioned in a way that made them important yet when it came to the resolution of the story, their contribution fizzled out. This yields a 3.5 star rating.
This steampunk romance is recommended for domestic discipline lovers.
*I received this book as a review copy in return for an honest review
July 1, 2014
I did still enjoy this story, but the sex and BDSM was slightly less in this story than others. They are becoming much the same, and are more about what happens outside the castle rather than in...more love story than BDSM...soft BDSM.
I wish they were slightly longer and gave you updates on previous characters..hence dropping one star. I still love these stories and this writers style of writing...it's an easy read and enjoyable, if a bit corny at times
But I'll still read more x
I wish they were slightly longer and gave you updates on previous characters..hence dropping one star. I still love these stories and this writers style of writing...it's an easy read and enjoyable, if a bit corny at times
But I'll still read more x
June 29, 2021
Actually 4.5 stars
Chocolatier Maybe Sinclair Adleton is in trouble. Her college roommate stole her ideas, her recipes, and the location for her new store, leaving Sinclair to try to muddle through in a less-than-ideal location with a lecherous landlord. The one bright spot in her day is recurrent customer Parker, who she might have a crush on. When Parker's co-worker finds out about his crush on Sinclair, he arranges for her to cater a desert party at the scandalous "Castle" resort, but that leaves Sinclair with a dilemma -- she needs the Castle catering job to save her business, but taking the job will alienate many of her in-town customers.
First, Sinclair and Parker are adorable. Parker is determined to protect her from himself, even when that's not what Sinclair wants. Her innocent naivete about the world of BDSM (and her introduction by Parker) is an absolute delight. The main downsides are that (a) the book is too short and (b) it makes me crave chocolate. Still, this is probably my favorite of the Master of the Castle books.
Chocolatier Maybe Sinclair Adleton is in trouble. Her college roommate stole her ideas, her recipes, and the location for her new store, leaving Sinclair to try to muddle through in a less-than-ideal location with a lecherous landlord. The one bright spot in her day is recurrent customer Parker, who she might have a crush on. When Parker's co-worker finds out about his crush on Sinclair, he arranges for her to cater a desert party at the scandalous "Castle" resort, but that leaves Sinclair with a dilemma -- she needs the Castle catering job to save her business, but taking the job will alienate many of her in-town customers.
First, Sinclair and Parker are adorable. Parker is determined to protect her from himself, even when that's not what Sinclair wants. Her innocent naivete about the world of BDSM (and her introduction by Parker) is an absolute delight. The main downsides are that (a) the book is too short and (b) it makes me crave chocolate. Still, this is probably my favorite of the Master of the Castle books.
July 6, 2021
I've recently returned to this series and found many new volumes since last I read. I was most pleased by this one, which really holds up to what I think is the best of the earlier books, Kaylee's Keeper. The emphasis on consent is clear throughout all of this series (though not all of her books, which is why I can't read her historicals), but there is more understanding of character dynamics and more communication between the characters about the role that kink can or does play for them, what each wants and needs etc. In the books in which more experienced kink players are the protagonists, unfortunately this essential part of any relationship (or scene) is skipped, which for me makes the books far less rich and the characters less dimensional. This one is better, and I love the relationship between Sinclair and Parker.
July 8, 2020
My favorite of this series.
Want to read a book that does a great job of introducing someone to BDSM?
This is the one.
Sinclair runs a sweet shop. It was her life long dream. She is asked to make dessert
, candies and things sweet for The Castle's Valentine's day.
Master Parker has been visiting her shop for over a year.
Brand new to anything involved with BDSM, Master Parker very slowly introduce s Sinclair through careful negotiations and limits for safe sane and consensual play. He is indeed an excellent Dom.
This is one of the more realistic portrayals of how a Master Dom would be with a brand new submissive. If you want a small glimpse into that, this is a book I highly recommend.
Want to read a book that does a great job of introducing someone to BDSM?
This is the one.
Sinclair runs a sweet shop. It was her life long dream. She is asked to make dessert
, candies and things sweet for The Castle's Valentine's day.
Master Parker has been visiting her shop for over a year.
Brand new to anything involved with BDSM, Master Parker very slowly introduce s Sinclair through careful negotiations and limits for safe sane and consensual play. He is indeed an excellent Dom.
This is one of the more realistic portrayals of how a Master Dom would be with a brand new submissive. If you want a small glimpse into that, this is a book I highly recommend.
February 9, 2014
I can't say enough good things about this book! Holy batman! This book was just one of the best books I've read in a long time. If you know about the Castle series, it's almost like this was a behind the scenes story. This wasn't about the colorful bracelets or the multiple fun rooms, this was more about the people, the relationships, the building of trust, the passion and romance.... and then there is Parker.
Good lord... where do I start with Parker? He's sweet, confident, sexy, dominant, daring, passionate, romantic and he won't hesitate to spank you... don't look so shocked...you know you like it.
Well ladies, reading this book I recommend you have at least three changes of panties because Parker will make you change them.... and then there is the sweet side of him that makes you want to fall in love with him.
This was an amazing book that I highly recommend! Maren Smith certainly outdid herself on this one. I had so many feelings while reading! I laughed, I seriously needed a fan from all of the wonderful sex scenes... and I cried... Amazing story here! I'm already reading the story again and I can't wait for the next book in the Castle series!
Good lord... where do I start with Parker? He's sweet, confident, sexy, dominant, daring, passionate, romantic and he won't hesitate to spank you... don't look so shocked...you know you like it.
Well ladies, reading this book I recommend you have at least three changes of panties because Parker will make you change them.... and then there is the sweet side of him that makes you want to fall in love with him.
This was an amazing book that I highly recommend! Maren Smith certainly outdid herself on this one. I had so many feelings while reading! I laughed, I seriously needed a fan from all of the wonderful sex scenes... and I cried... Amazing story here! I'm already reading the story again and I can't wait for the next book in the Castle series!
February 28, 2014
This was my first time reading steam punk, and I really enjoyed it!
It was so much fun!
Though there was not very much spanking in the story, the plot made up for it. It was fast paced and energetic.
I really liked the attention Ms. Swann gave to each MC’s POV, showcasing plenty of emotional depth and growth.
Dr. Gladys DeWalt was a strong, brilliant scientist, punished for failing a mission that led to the deaths of many of her crew members. I loved her feisty nature mixed with her emotional side- the softer side she had to keep hidden.
Dr. Sebastian Cromwell, an outsider, and brilliant scientist, is also part automaton, giving others the impression that he has no human emotions or feelings.
Gladys is stripped of her position, and placed in his care as his intellectual ward, making for a clever and entertaining story.
This was a great combination of sci fi, fantasy, romance and steam punk with a little spanking included.
I wish there had been a bit more spanking, but I still very much enjoyed the story and the characters as they developed and fell in love.
I hope there will be sequels!
It was so much fun!
Though there was not very much spanking in the story, the plot made up for it. It was fast paced and energetic.
I really liked the attention Ms. Swann gave to each MC’s POV, showcasing plenty of emotional depth and growth.
Dr. Gladys DeWalt was a strong, brilliant scientist, punished for failing a mission that led to the deaths of many of her crew members. I loved her feisty nature mixed with her emotional side- the softer side she had to keep hidden.
Dr. Sebastian Cromwell, an outsider, and brilliant scientist, is also part automaton, giving others the impression that he has no human emotions or feelings.
Gladys is stripped of her position, and placed in his care as his intellectual ward, making for a clever and entertaining story.
This was a great combination of sci fi, fantasy, romance and steam punk with a little spanking included.
I wish there had been a bit more spanking, but I still very much enjoyed the story and the characters as they developed and fell in love.
I hope there will be sequels!
May 3, 2014
I absolutely loved this story. The characters are so well drawn and Sebastian Cromwell is a fantastic literary creation. I love everything about him - his sternness, his fairness, the way he handles Gladys de Walt's first spanking after she attempts to run. I particularly loved watching his feelings grow and see him change from a "robot with human experiences" to a "human with robot experiences." Sidney Swann has great turn of phrase and the knack of writing scenes that you can visualise as though you were there, even when it's something as simple as a book being hurled across a room. In fact, this book would make a great movie. Someone, should get on that right now!
July 9, 2014
I liked the story. I thought it ended kind of abruptly. I would have liked to see Casey get what was coming to her, but I guess that is not reality.
September 15, 2020
The Delight
Sweet Sinclair is probably more of the lightest romance in this series or maybe it was all the chocolate sweetening me up. There wasn't as much conflict, but more sweetness to find love and save a business.
Review
Sweet Sinclair lives up to its name as it deals with a candy store rivalry and the Castle. Maybe Sinclair goes by her middle name, Sinclair, but her candy story holds her legacy. From a youngster, all Sinclair has wanted was her own candy store. Her college roommate though stole the idea and the perfect location in Granger, Ohio for a candy store of her own, often taunting Sinclair with her success. If something doesn't change soon, Sinclair's dream will just be that: a dream.
For a year Parker has stopped in each week to pick up caramels from Sinclair's candy store. She doesn't know he doesn't even like candy, but she senses he wants to ask her out, but chickens out each time. Parker is in love with Sinclair, but he also is a Dominant the Castle. Part owner, part employee, he knows he can't hide this part of his personality and Sinclair won't be able to accept that.
Sam from Holding Hannah, knows of Parker's obsession and suggests this Valentine's Day Ball at the Castle be catered by a candy store: Sinclair's store. It's more money than she can dream could happen and just might save her store. Taking it knowing she will be working at the kinky resort, she is surprised to find Parker will be her contact and helper. Making a trip to the sex toy store, Hannah decides she will make the first move, buying a trio of toys to make her play.
But even Sinclair is shy, but Parker finds the bag and decides to introduce her to his world one toy a night at a time. But what happens when the conservative town finds out she is working with the Castle? This all comes down to my favorite story of the series.
Parker is a dream Dom in this story. Sweet, but dirty with no great brokenness in his past. He has loved Sinclair for a year and can't figure out how to introduce this side of himself that he cannot deny. I don't exactly know what his job is at the Castle or how that plays into their relationship in the future. When he sees the toys, they are cheap, but he uses one each night they are working together to introduce her into his world. While not a coddling Dom, he also isn't harsh, giving her what she needed and what he needed to move their relationship onward.
Sinclair for her part puts forth so much effort for this Valentine's Day Ball and has some of the cutest ideas. She's strong taking on her competitor while also dealing with a town that makes assumptions and condemns with little evidence. Standing strong through it all, she even steps out of her comfort zone to try something for a man she is attracted to. These two made my favorite couples list!
Challenges Met
Reading Challenge #147
Review Writing Challenge #49
Literary Pickers #44 - Pantry
Bad Boys of Romance #21
About the Book
SWEET SINCLAIR BY MAREN SMITH
Since a competing sweet shop opened its doors, things have not gone well for Sinclair's candy shop, Maybe's Candy. Business was slowing, her finances were dropping and no matter what she does she just can't think of any way to get her business back on top. Even the one highlight of her week - that moment when handsome Parker Johnson, a man she had been flirting with for over a year, came to buy his usual bag of caramels - even that wasn't much of a treat. How could it be when Sinclair already knew something was wrong with him? She couldn't quite put her finger on what it was - was he married, gay, or a homicidal maniac? But a guy just didn't show that much interest in a girl and then not ask her out, at least not without a good reason. And Parker most definitely had not asked her out.
Then, an unexpected ray of good luck: From out of the blue, she's offered a job. All she has to do is cater a lavish candy party - one day, 900 people, and her store would be financially set all the way through summer. The only catch? The venue is a place called the Castle, a fantasy BDSM resort inhabited by some of the hottest Masters she has ever met. And one of them just happens to be Parker, the same man she's been drooling over for the last year.
What a coincidence! Or is it? Sinclair always knew there was something wrong with him. What she didn't know, was how he could make WRONG feel so wonderfully RIGHT.
Publisher's Note: While this is the fourth book in Maren Smith's hugely popular Masters of the Castle series, it can be read as a standalone, as can all the others. The series numbers are just a guideline as to recommended reading order.
Preview
August 2, 2020
OMG, I just love this series, and "Sweet Sinclair" has just frosted the cake for me. It's a wonderful combination of fantasy and harsh reality in some cases. It melted my heart and broke it. It had me chuckling and turning on the fan. The personalities of Sinclair and Parker are so down to earth relatable it's easy to fall in love with and relate to the characters. The chemistry is so palpable it literally jumps off the page. And I'm sure everyone has met at least one 'friend' like Casey. Grrrrr. There are just some characters that are easy to dislike as well.
August 19, 2024
Girls YouTube Channel – Stacked with Reviews (not this book though!)
NOTE: This is a bit of a series review rather than each book in the series!)
Okay let's put my cards on the table shall we - I needed smut, I needed Alpha, I needed 'Sir's and 'Sweetheart' endearments and control. I found it in these. They are written by different authors but they keep the continuity of the whole 'Castle' really well. You have the BDSM Resort through it's early stages, through big events like disaster and Charity Auctions - and I have loved ALL of them.
I have read 10 single titles in two weeks, plus the chunk of Witness Protection books that come in one compendium - and I just realised I missed a whole other chunk so I will be back to them soon... but...
It's not high flying writing, it's mostly realistic, certainly all the BDSM play stuff is but some of the quickly falling for each other is a little squiffy. I will say that the psychological issues dealt with by the 'Masters' or 'Sir's throughout the books was really well done and quite affecting in places.
OF NOTE: Owning 'O' is deeply affecting, or at least it was to me.
PLEASE READ THE TRIGGERS - there are quite a few in there and mention of quite a full things.
Many of the books are written by authors who are in the lifestyle and I think that shines through in the writing.
P.S. Love bookmarks? Want to print them out and use them as often as you like? Love ephemera and junk journal’s and prints too? Try out my new website The Witchery Woo.IES Review
NOTE: This is a bit of a series review rather than each book in the series!)
Okay let's put my cards on the table shall we - I needed smut, I needed Alpha, I needed 'Sir's and 'Sweetheart' endearments and control. I found it in these. They are written by different authors but they keep the continuity of the whole 'Castle' really well. You have the BDSM Resort through it's early stages, through big events like disaster and Charity Auctions - and I have loved ALL of them.
I have read 10 single titles in two weeks, plus the chunk of Witness Protection books that come in one compendium - and I just realised I missed a whole other chunk so I will be back to them soon... but...
It's not high flying writing, it's mostly realistic, certainly all the BDSM play stuff is but some of the quickly falling for each other is a little squiffy. I will say that the psychological issues dealt with by the 'Masters' or 'Sir's throughout the books was really well done and quite affecting in places.
OF NOTE: Owning 'O' is deeply affecting, or at least it was to me.
PLEASE READ THE TRIGGERS - there are quite a few in there and mention of quite a full things.
Many of the books are written by authors who are in the lifestyle and I think that shines through in the writing.
P.S. Love bookmarks? Want to print them out and use them as often as you like? Love ephemera and junk journal’s and prints too? Try out my new website The Witchery Woo.IES Review
October 10, 2017
Another delicious offering
Love this story with Sinclair and Parker. Sinclair owns a candy store and Parker has been visiting every week for a year - never touching, never speaking out of turn but definitely lusting after her. A contract to supply heaps of candy, Parker and his friends to help and Sinclair has it made. Or does she ... read this deliciously steamy and sexy offering to find out more.
Love this story with Sinclair and Parker. Sinclair owns a candy store and Parker has been visiting every week for a year - never touching, never speaking out of turn but definitely lusting after her. A contract to supply heaps of candy, Parker and his friends to help and Sinclair has it made. Or does she ... read this deliciously steamy and sexy offering to find out more.
March 1, 2022
Candy store owner
Sinclair owns a candy store and she's struggling to stay in business. She's been flirting with a customer for a year but he hasn't asked her out. Parker is a Dom and assumes she's vanilla. After his friend intervenes she's offered a job at the castle, a BDSM club, catering their Valentine's day event. Once she realizes he's a Dom she lets him know she'd like to try submitting. Things heat up fast. This has mainly spankings and not any intense BDSM scenes.
Sinclair owns a candy store and she's struggling to stay in business. She's been flirting with a customer for a year but he hasn't asked her out. Parker is a Dom and assumes she's vanilla. After his friend intervenes she's offered a job at the castle, a BDSM club, catering their Valentine's day event. Once she realizes he's a Dom she lets him know she'd like to try submitting. Things heat up fast. This has mainly spankings and not any intense BDSM scenes.
September 21, 2025
Ooooh sweeties and spankings
Catty school girl rivalry/jealousy
Small Town mindsets/ minions easily lead by vanilla normalcy.
Sweet interactions with naivety and anxiety.
Hot steamy intros to submission with amazing chocolate sweetie valentine event
Catty school girl rivalry/jealousy
Small Town mindsets/ minions easily lead by vanilla normalcy.
Sweet interactions with naivety and anxiety.
Hot steamy intros to submission with amazing chocolate sweetie valentine event
April 12, 2019
Wear you as a hat... HOT
July 3, 2019
Loved it
This couple are so cute I couldn’t put the book down. Very well written, I’m loving this series 🥰 😊
This couple are so cute I couldn’t put the book down. Very well written, I’m loving this series 🥰 😊
February 19, 2017
Great read! I wish there was an epilogue, but that's the only thing I would complain about. Loved it!
February 17, 2014
Sidney Swann is a new author releasing her first story Dangerous Science. The story starts out slow but keep with it. Every sentence is important to the storyline. This is my first Steampunk novel to read and I loved it! I give high praises to Sidney Swann.
Gladys DeWalt is grief stricken over the failure of her expedition. She has been discredited as a scientist and her reputation is ruined. She is mourning the loss of her team and trying to figure out her next move. She is placed in the care of Sebastian Cromwell.
Sebastian Cromwell is not your average man. He is actually part automaton. He is stern and arrogant at first but slowly begins to learn to warm up to Gladys. He becomes fond her and wants to take care of her. Convinced that her expedition’s failure wasn’t her fault, Sebastian sets out on a mission to right the situation and find out what really happened.
There is a villain in this story but I feel that you need to read to learn about him. I am very impressed because usually I don’t read a lot of action stories. Dangerous Science is the perfect blend of action, adventure, erotica, and spankings. I am completely wrapped up in the characters from Dangerous Science and look forward to more from Sidney Swann.
Gladys DeWalt is grief stricken over the failure of her expedition. She has been discredited as a scientist and her reputation is ruined. She is mourning the loss of her team and trying to figure out her next move. She is placed in the care of Sebastian Cromwell.
Sebastian Cromwell is not your average man. He is actually part automaton. He is stern and arrogant at first but slowly begins to learn to warm up to Gladys. He becomes fond her and wants to take care of her. Convinced that her expedition’s failure wasn’t her fault, Sebastian sets out on a mission to right the situation and find out what really happened.
There is a villain in this story but I feel that you need to read to learn about him. I am very impressed because usually I don’t read a lot of action stories. Dangerous Science is the perfect blend of action, adventure, erotica, and spankings. I am completely wrapped up in the characters from Dangerous Science and look forward to more from Sidney Swann.
June 9, 2014
I wasn't sure what to expect from this, but I ended up enjoying this more than I thought I would. The characters are interesting, though things move a little quickly (in more ways than one) ;-) , but I didn't find it completely beyond belief. I loved the submersible they end up with.
I do have to say that what really, really bothered me was the lack of a good editor. There were many misspellings, misused pronouns, and wrong words, but the worst were the places that simply made no sense, as if the middle of the paragraph had been removed and then slammed together. Or sentences that made no sense. In bad novels I just find it sort of painfully funny, but in ones I think are good with real potential it upsets me.
I went through a stage of idiotic hubris where I figured I edited through my manuscripts enough times I didn't need to pay anyone to look at it. When I became an editor for a while the truth hit home hard about that, especially when I found mistakes nearly identical to the kind I make. I didn't find them so quickly in my own work, but someone else's? Nasty bit of reality. I don't know what the situation is here, but all I can advise is to persevere and I hope you'll find it as worthwhile as I did.
I do have to say that what really, really bothered me was the lack of a good editor. There were many misspellings, misused pronouns, and wrong words, but the worst were the places that simply made no sense, as if the middle of the paragraph had been removed and then slammed together. Or sentences that made no sense. In bad novels I just find it sort of painfully funny, but in ones I think are good with real potential it upsets me.
I went through a stage of idiotic hubris where I figured I edited through my manuscripts enough times I didn't need to pay anyone to look at it. When I became an editor for a while the truth hit home hard about that, especially when I found mistakes nearly identical to the kind I make. I didn't find them so quickly in my own work, but someone else's? Nasty bit of reality. I don't know what the situation is here, but all I can advise is to persevere and I hope you'll find it as worthwhile as I did.
February 17, 2014
I love the Castle series, and this one does not disappoint! This story is HOT, and will fuel more than a few fantasies!! Parker is a very sexy Dom, very "alpha", but also sentimental, protective, and gentle when called for. Sinclair is a brave, independent women who owns her own candy store and makes decadent confections. She also knows what she wants and isn't afraid to become adventurous where her sexuality is concerned, especially when she is motivated by her strong attraction to Parker.
The only reason I gave this 4 stars rather than 5 is I hate loose ends and injustice at the end of a story. Yes, I am a little "Pollyanna (ish)" in that regard. I felt Casey, a betraying college roommate who successfully drives Sinclair out of business, slanders her name, and destroys her property, got away with it! Even though it all worked out beautifully for Sinclair and Parker, I would have liked to see Casey get her just desserts (pun intended).
I can't wait for the next book in this series, and will read anything else I find by this author!
The only reason I gave this 4 stars rather than 5 is I hate loose ends and injustice at the end of a story. Yes, I am a little "Pollyanna (ish)" in that regard. I felt Casey, a betraying college roommate who successfully drives Sinclair out of business, slanders her name, and destroys her property, got away with it! Even though it all worked out beautifully for Sinclair and Parker, I would have liked to see Casey get her just desserts (pun intended).
I can't wait for the next book in this series, and will read anything else I find by this author!
July 26, 2014
I received this wonderful book free for a fair and honest review... and also because I was a naughty girl and missed it between Maren's "Saving Sara" and "Chasing Chelsea"- I can't believe a fangirl such as I did that. I asked myself, how does this book stand as far as prior knowledge from earlier books needed for enjoyment? Again, Maren managed such a nice balance of the couple being focused on- Parker and Sinclair- and other couplings, characters that the book would be enjoyable both for fans of the series (like myself) and for those that just put their toes into the Masters of the Castle series with this book. I love Parker for the time he took in letting Sinclair experience BDSM, this being her first time experiencing any of it. This book was a nice, short quick read, so I'm not going to give any details, but I do love how Sinclair ends up having a reason to go to the Castle and my dislike of "small town mentality" was reconfirmed by how she's treated by people outside of the Castle. And now It's time to re-read "Chasing Chelsea." :D
February 14, 2015
Valentine's Day The Castle Style
Another wonderful story and addition to the Master of the Castle books, but can read as a standalone. Parker came into Maybe's Candy once a week, he was a regular for one pound of carmels. Sinclair enjoyed the visit and was hoping he would ask her out. But what happens when she gets an invitation to come to The Castle and cater their Valentine's Day event. What happens when competition finds out she is going to the Castle and spreads the word to ruin her and her business. Master Parker can't do vanilla, can Sinclair fit into his world. The twist and turns as Sinclair works at the castle getting ready for Valentine's Day and Parker opens up a new world that Sinclair embraces, but will it be for a few days or is there a future?
Another wonderful story and addition to the Master of the Castle books, but can read as a standalone. Parker came into Maybe's Candy once a week, he was a regular for one pound of carmels. Sinclair enjoyed the visit and was hoping he would ask her out. But what happens when she gets an invitation to come to The Castle and cater their Valentine's Day event. What happens when competition finds out she is going to the Castle and spreads the word to ruin her and her business. Master Parker can't do vanilla, can Sinclair fit into his world. The twist and turns as Sinclair works at the castle getting ready for Valentine's Day and Parker opens up a new world that Sinclair embraces, but will it be for a few days or is there a future?
March 28, 2015
This story was as sweet as the title indicates and I although I enjoyed it, I think it was lacking somehow. I'm bumping up my rating from 3 to 4 because the Castle continues to entertain with its' lavish dinners, elaborate costumes, and just plain abundance of kinky delights. I just love reading about that place.
Sinclair is a great character, I liked her determination and the way she didn't back away from her dreams and desires when faced with Parker's sexual tastes. There needed to be more about Sinclair's horrible former friend and I really, really wanted to see her get one of Master Marshall's most painful spankings! The ending was just too abrupt and could have been fleshed out more in my opinion.
Sinclair is a great character, I liked her determination and the way she didn't back away from her dreams and desires when faced with Parker's sexual tastes. There needed to be more about Sinclair's horrible former friend and I really, really wanted to see her get one of Master Marshall's most painful spankings! The ending was just too abrupt and could have been fleshed out more in my opinion.
May 2, 2014
Surprisingly fun read
I very much enjoyed this book, my only complaint being that it was over too quickly! But this isn't just the flattering, 'I loved the characters so much and didn't want it to end,' critique - after presenting compelling characters, an intriguing setup, wonderful alternate science, it feels like everything wraps up too neatly.
This was the only book by Sidney Swann I could find, but would love to see more by her, and there are so many more stories in this world of the Council of Scholars I'm sure she could explore. I highly recommend this for anyone interested in steampunk romance.
I very much enjoyed this book, my only complaint being that it was over too quickly! But this isn't just the flattering, 'I loved the characters so much and didn't want it to end,' critique - after presenting compelling characters, an intriguing setup, wonderful alternate science, it feels like everything wraps up too neatly.
This was the only book by Sidney Swann I could find, but would love to see more by her, and there are so many more stories in this world of the Council of Scholars I'm sure she could explore. I highly recommend this for anyone interested in steampunk romance.
February 19, 2015
Very sweet addition to the Castle series. I didn't like the speed that Sinclair bounced into things with Parker but then again she had seen him every day at her candy shop for the past year or so.
I was happy with the way things worked out at the end.
Overall this was not my favorite, I just like more action. They played together well, as far as the BDSM scenes go, and it was accurate, well written, but it just didn't really push my buttons.
Parker is a good Dom and I like the cameos of other previous Castle occupants.
I will be sure to try the next in the series for a little more oomph. 3 1/2 stars rounded to 4.
Love Maren's writing, and really enjoy her other books.
I was happy with the way things worked out at the end.
Overall this was not my favorite, I just like more action. They played together well, as far as the BDSM scenes go, and it was accurate, well written, but it just didn't really push my buttons.
Parker is a good Dom and I like the cameos of other previous Castle occupants.
I will be sure to try the next in the series for a little more oomph. 3 1/2 stars rounded to 4.
Love Maren's writing, and really enjoy her other books.
March 15, 2014
Another great story in the Masters of the Castle series. Sinclair seems to have her dream stolen by someone she used to consider a friend. She is struggling. Parker has an interest but he's afraid that knowing "all" there is to know about him she will reject him so he figures that better not to ask then be rejected. His friend decide to help both Sinclair's business out and give them a push together. The together works out but business might be a bit worse for it.
January 13, 2017
Maybe Sinclair... What a name! She and Parker have been flirting for a year and finally she gets to see, and experience, a new side of him.
A fun, sexy book that makes me long for some chocolate truffles and spanked bottom cookies.
.......SPOILER (sort of)........
I wish we had found out what happened with the evil candy nemesis. I picture her being introduced to a large ginger root and not in any sort of fun, sexy way. Grrrr!!!
A fun, sexy book that makes me long for some chocolate truffles and spanked bottom cookies.
.......SPOILER (sort of)........
I wish we had found out what happened with the evil candy nemesis. I picture her being introduced to a large ginger root and not in any sort of fun, sexy way. Grrrr!!!
July 15, 2014
3.5 stars...
I enjoyed this story--mostly--but the lack of editing was totally disruptive (filling in missing words, altering sentences so they made sense). I thought the spanking stuff was weird, then realized that part of the story was written specifically for a particular genre.
Still, regardless of all the above, I liked the characters and the plot.
I enjoyed this story--mostly--but the lack of editing was totally disruptive (filling in missing words, altering sentences so they made sense). I thought the spanking stuff was weird, then realized that part of the story was written specifically for a particular genre.
Still, regardless of all the above, I liked the characters and the plot.
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