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Parlor Games #2
Forfeits
FROM EXCITING AUTHOR OF LGBTQIA ROMANCE AE LISTER
Book two in the Parlor Games series
Sometimes you have to kneel to find yourself again.
Fletcher Marin is grieving. He' s holding things together for the sake of his daughter and has come a long way since his husband, Daniel, passed away in an accident three years ago. But something' s changed, and Fletcher finds himself remembering parts of his life with Daniel that he' s been suppressing.
A new romantic possibility with Aiden Thompson, a supply teacher whom he meets at his daughter' s school, and the fact that Maverick Molly' s, the ‘ restaurant' where his nephew Patrick works, is a gay kink and burlesque club have made Fletcher aware of everything he' s missed since Daniel' s death.
Aiden helps Fletcher step back into the world of submission and domination and takes him places even Daniel didn' t go. Is it possible that fate would give Fletcher another person to love and cherish, who fulfills him and seems as caring as his late husband? And will he ever be able to remember Daniel without pain?
Grief can be a tricky thing to bear, and there are times when you have to fight the ones you love for the freedom to be a whole person.
Book two in the Parlor Games series
Sometimes you have to kneel to find yourself again.
Fletcher Marin is grieving. He' s holding things together for the sake of his daughter and has come a long way since his husband, Daniel, passed away in an accident three years ago. But something' s changed, and Fletcher finds himself remembering parts of his life with Daniel that he' s been suppressing.
A new romantic possibility with Aiden Thompson, a supply teacher whom he meets at his daughter' s school, and the fact that Maverick Molly' s, the ‘ restaurant' where his nephew Patrick works, is a gay kink and burlesque club have made Fletcher aware of everything he' s missed since Daniel' s death.
Aiden helps Fletcher step back into the world of submission and domination and takes him places even Daniel didn' t go. Is it possible that fate would give Fletcher another person to love and cherish, who fulfills him and seems as caring as his late husband? And will he ever be able to remember Daniel without pain?
Grief can be a tricky thing to bear, and there are times when you have to fight the ones you love for the freedom to be a whole person.
- GenresBDSMM M RomanceRomance
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2024
2 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Lister
52 books237 followersQueer erotic romance. Incendiary encounters, stealthy romance, multiple genres. AE Lister is a Canadian non-binary/gender fluid author with a vivid imagination and a head full of unique and interesting characters. They write consent-based kink with a dash of romance.
They also write Young Adult under Alison Lister: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
They also write Young Adult under Alison Lister: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
dnf
November 1, 2024DNF 62%
Erotic romance, featuring BDSM elements, themes of dealing with grief, and a single dad rediscovering a side of himself he thought long lost.
I was intrigued by the premise, but ultimately I have to admit this one isn’t meant for me.
This particular flavor of BDSM doesn’t really appeal to me. If I’m reading smut scenes with a scrunched face, a little bit of an eek expression, maybe a girl should call it, and put the book down. So yeah, putting this one down.
It also felt like reading two different books at times. You have the sweet and achy relationship building, with Fletcher trying to work through his grief while also testing out if he can love again with Aiden.
On the flip side you have this hardcore BDSM club, this intense D/s dynamic, all the gizmos and gadgets. They really take on completely different personalities once they walk into the Bordello and the detachment between the two worlds made me also detached from this story.
INCOMPLETE tropes and CWs (spoilers):
- Grief
- Mentions of dead spouse
- MC w/ panic attacks
- Single dad
- D/s dynamic
- Impact play
- Frotting
- BDSM club
- Vers MCs
- Coming untouched scene
- Toys
- Enema play
Erotic romance, featuring BDSM elements, themes of dealing with grief, and a single dad rediscovering a side of himself he thought long lost.
I was intrigued by the premise, but ultimately I have to admit this one isn’t meant for me.
This particular flavor of BDSM doesn’t really appeal to me. If I’m reading smut scenes with a scrunched face, a little bit of an eek expression, maybe a girl should call it, and put the book down. So yeah, putting this one down.
It also felt like reading two different books at times. You have the sweet and achy relationship building, with Fletcher trying to work through his grief while also testing out if he can love again with Aiden.
On the flip side you have this hardcore BDSM club, this intense D/s dynamic, all the gizmos and gadgets. They really take on completely different personalities once they walk into the Bordello and the detachment between the two worlds made me also detached from this story.
INCOMPLETE tropes and CWs (spoilers):
- Grief
- Mentions of dead spouse
- MC w/ panic attacks
- Single dad
- D/s dynamic
- Impact play
- Frotting
- BDSM club
- Vers MCs
- Coming untouched scene
- Toys
- Enema play
June 9, 2024
A.E. Lister has started something very special with their queer romance series Parlor Games. Each of the stories in this standalone series has one thing in common: the characters find love and explore their kinks at Maverick Molly's. You can read these books in any order.
Forfeits has a very different flavor than the first Parlor Games book Are You There, Moriarty?. Both have Lister's delightfully wicked brand of lovin', and both are heartfelt romances. Forfeits though is a real hurt/comfort story, filled with emotion and marvelous family drama.
Fletcher is a widower with a pre-teen daughter, and is going through some powerful life changes. Lister has great insight into Fletcher's situation. Balancing his responsibilities to his family and his physical desires as a man has been a challenge, and by the start of the story he has put his own needs on the back burner.
Aiden is a dream come true for Fletcher! All the dommy vibes he's throwing off have reawakened Fletcher's submissive needs, plus he's beloved by Fletcher's daughter, and has a respectable job to boot. Aiden is patient and understanding, and hot as heck when it comes to playtime!
Like I say, you can definitely read Forfeits as a standalone. It is a marvelous hurt/comfort romance, filled with warm feels and sparking hot kink. And when you're in the mood for a steaming age gap romance, give Are You There, Moriarty? a go. You won't be disappointed.
an arc of Forfeits was generously provided by the author at my request for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
Forfeits has a very different flavor than the first Parlor Games book Are You There, Moriarty?. Both have Lister's delightfully wicked brand of lovin', and both are heartfelt romances. Forfeits though is a real hurt/comfort story, filled with emotion and marvelous family drama.
Fletcher is a widower with a pre-teen daughter, and is going through some powerful life changes. Lister has great insight into Fletcher's situation. Balancing his responsibilities to his family and his physical desires as a man has been a challenge, and by the start of the story he has put his own needs on the back burner.
Aiden is a dream come true for Fletcher! All the dommy vibes he's throwing off have reawakened Fletcher's submissive needs, plus he's beloved by Fletcher's daughter, and has a respectable job to boot. Aiden is patient and understanding, and hot as heck when it comes to playtime!
Like I say, you can definitely read Forfeits as a standalone. It is a marvelous hurt/comfort romance, filled with warm feels and sparking hot kink. And when you're in the mood for a steaming age gap romance, give Are You There, Moriarty? a go. You won't be disappointed.
an arc of Forfeits was generously provided by the author at my request for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
May 18, 2024
Rating: 4
Steam: 5
PoV: single, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, BDSM, MM
Main tropes: single dad, hurt / comfort, age gap
I loved being back at Maverick Molly’s, and Forfeits was a story that perfectly combined healing and kink!
I have to start by saying that I absolutely adored Aiden! He understood Fletcher's grief and encouraged him to talk about Daniel and their past, and he was just overall a wonderful and supportive character, exactly what Fletcher needed and deserved. Their relationship wasn't totally straightforward, as Fletcher struggled with being a single dad and his grief, but it was always clear to me how much they meant to each other and that they'd find their way back to each other. There was a bit of angst and a pinch of drama in the story, most of the angst didn't revolve around Fletcher and Aiden's relationship though, but rather outside forces.
I might have commented that I thought the first book in this series would be a bit more full on erotica than it was, and while Forfeits was still a romance story, AE Lister definitely brought all the heat this time around! It was super hot to see Fletcher and Aiden try their way through kinks and toys, and it was clear how much it meant to Fletcher to be able to let go and get out of his head in those scenes. I loved how their dynamic developed and how they were both eager to explore together, even if it took them in somewhat unexpected directions sometimes.
Forfeits was both a sweet and kinky read, with lots of heat and affection. The balance between everyday life and kink scenes was great and I liked that I got to see the characters in a lot of different situations and roles. I also really enjoyed seeing more of the boys at Molly's, and I'm excited to get to know them more in the coming books. If you're into D/s, humiliation, toys, and pet play, you should really give this one a go!
-
Thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 5
PoV: single, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, BDSM, MM
Main tropes: single dad, hurt / comfort, age gap
I loved being back at Maverick Molly’s, and Forfeits was a story that perfectly combined healing and kink!
I have to start by saying that I absolutely adored Aiden! He understood Fletcher's grief and encouraged him to talk about Daniel and their past, and he was just overall a wonderful and supportive character, exactly what Fletcher needed and deserved. Their relationship wasn't totally straightforward, as Fletcher struggled with being a single dad and his grief, but it was always clear to me how much they meant to each other and that they'd find their way back to each other. There was a bit of angst and a pinch of drama in the story, most of the angst didn't revolve around Fletcher and Aiden's relationship though, but rather outside forces.
I might have commented that I thought the first book in this series would be a bit more full on erotica than it was, and while Forfeits was still a romance story, AE Lister definitely brought all the heat this time around! It was super hot to see Fletcher and Aiden try their way through kinks and toys, and it was clear how much it meant to Fletcher to be able to let go and get out of his head in those scenes. I loved how their dynamic developed and how they were both eager to explore together, even if it took them in somewhat unexpected directions sometimes.
Forfeits was both a sweet and kinky read, with lots of heat and affection. The balance between everyday life and kink scenes was great and I liked that I got to see the characters in a lot of different situations and roles. I also really enjoyed seeing more of the boys at Molly's, and I'm excited to get to know them more in the coming books. If you're into D/s, humiliation, toys, and pet play, you should really give this one a go!
-
Thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 7, 2024
What a delightful read. This had all the feels, sexiness and love I was looking for. Aiden and Fletcher were wonderful together.
I will say, it was a little slow going in the beginning for me. I had a hard time connecting with Aiden at first because I couldn’t get into his head without his POV. But once he and Fletcher really started getting together, it was easy to see Aiden through Fletcher’s eyes. Aiden was so caring and respectful of Fletcher’s deceased husband. He really was enjoyable to read.
I also really liked the realistic way Fletcher and Lucy’s relationship was portrayed. No parent is perfect and the way Lucy and Fletcher related to one another was great.
This really was a wonderful read that gave me so many feelings. Now I can’t wait for Robin’s story.
I will say, it was a little slow going in the beginning for me. I had a hard time connecting with Aiden at first because I couldn’t get into his head without his POV. But once he and Fletcher really started getting together, it was easy to see Aiden through Fletcher’s eyes. Aiden was so caring and respectful of Fletcher’s deceased husband. He really was enjoyable to read.
I also really liked the realistic way Fletcher and Lucy’s relationship was portrayed. No parent is perfect and the way Lucy and Fletcher related to one another was great.
This really was a wonderful read that gave me so many feelings. Now I can’t wait for Robin’s story.
May 6, 2024
4.25 stars. Fletcher lost his husband three years ago. He’s grieving and is in therapy. He works from home and that’s great, he and his marvelous twelve-year-old daughter Lucy, are getting through the days better and better.
A few months after Daniel passed away, Fletcher visited a club, drank himself into a stupor, and had an encounter with a twink. Just before that moment, he was struck by the sight of a beautiful Black man,
(Yes!! Look at the cover!! and take a look at the author’s site) a man that screamed dominance, they saw each other!
Imagine the moment when, years later, Fletcher meets his daughter’s supply teacher… yes that same man. Yes, still silly gorgeous!
You have to know a few details, Fletcher was in a kinky relationship with his late husband. Aiden is a Dom and a great one! Fletcher’s nephew works at Maverick Molly’s and we all know that’s a gay kink and burlesque club.
After said, Aiden is quite smitten with Fletcher. After laying on the table what their preferences are, they start a relationship where they explore their D/s sides with each other.
Aiden, a skilled Dom, patiently guides Fletcher to places he needs to be. Fletcher… is needy after being so long without.
Oh my goodness it’s just the start of something wonderful, sit down and watch them!
There’s an age gap of ten years where Fletcher is forty and Aiden thirty.
I’m always in awe by this author’s way of writing, intriguing, I know it’s fiction but it feels so realistic, warmhearted, and compelling, the conversations had a flow that was so real, all friendly, good-humored, and reasonable, the bunch of diverse BDSM scenes had a high level of intensity, very passionate.
There are a few ugly family struggles, (not between Fletcher, Lucy, and Aiden), thank goodness temporary, but still, ugh, I could have done without them.
Of course, I understand it’s for the big picture, and it was done well.
Overall, besides some heavy moments, a for me quite mellow, enjoyable read.
A few months after Daniel passed away, Fletcher visited a club, drank himself into a stupor, and had an encounter with a twink. Just before that moment, he was struck by the sight of a beautiful Black man,
(Yes!! Look at the cover!! and take a look at the author’s site) a man that screamed dominance, they saw each other!
Imagine the moment when, years later, Fletcher meets his daughter’s supply teacher… yes that same man. Yes, still silly gorgeous!
You have to know a few details, Fletcher was in a kinky relationship with his late husband. Aiden is a Dom and a great one! Fletcher’s nephew works at Maverick Molly’s and we all know that’s a gay kink and burlesque club.
After said, Aiden is quite smitten with Fletcher. After laying on the table what their preferences are, they start a relationship where they explore their D/s sides with each other.
Aiden, a skilled Dom, patiently guides Fletcher to places he needs to be. Fletcher… is needy after being so long without.
Oh my goodness it’s just the start of something wonderful, sit down and watch them!
There’s an age gap of ten years where Fletcher is forty and Aiden thirty.
I’m always in awe by this author’s way of writing, intriguing, I know it’s fiction but it feels so realistic, warmhearted, and compelling, the conversations had a flow that was so real, all friendly, good-humored, and reasonable, the bunch of diverse BDSM scenes had a high level of intensity, very passionate.
There are a few ugly family struggles, (not between Fletcher, Lucy, and Aiden), thank goodness temporary, but still, ugh, I could have done without them.
Of course, I understand it’s for the big picture, and it was done well.
Overall, besides some heavy moments, a for me quite mellow, enjoyable read.
May 6, 2024
Fletcher is a widower who has mourned for three years. When he meets his daughter's teacher Aiden, he realizes it is time to move on. He also terribly misses their Dom/Sub relationship and is quick to begin that relationship with Aiden as his Dom. As their experiences meld in steamy time, he also learns to let go of his grief and enjoy a new love. Rife with animal play and impact play this book is hot and rewarding. I received a copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
May 11, 2024
4.5 stars
Fletcher has been widowed for three years now, still has difficult times missing his husband, and is the single parent to his twelve year old daughter, Lucy. His therapist is helping continue his adjustment to his new life without Daniel, he misses someone to be close to, but isn’t sure he deserves to find someone. When he meets his daughter Lucy’s supply teacher (took me awhile to figure out that would be what we call a substitute teacher) and recognizes him from a kink club a couple of years ago, the attraction and interest is there on both sides. The two meet for dinner, and the physical connection is instantaneous. Aiden is a Dom, and that is a side Fletcher has been missing since his husband’s death. Daniel had been his Dom and Fletcher misses the submissive roll as a way to turn control over to someone else and just be without all the stresses in his life. When Fletcher and Aiden go to Maverick Molly’s kink club, they are able to start exploring their D/s dynamic. This becomes very beneficial for Fletcher as he must deal with a very hurtful and stressful personal problem in his life.
Fletcher’s grief and feelings are very true to life as he goes through the stages of loss, and Aiden is very supportive of him, able to understand what Fletcher needs in the BDSM dynamic and can give him what he needs to cope with the new challenges in his life. Lucy is a precocious twelve year old, as smart-alecky as twelve year olds can be, but also very perceptive and loving, with a great relationship with her dad. The world building of Maverick Molly’s is such that it is the perfect backdrop for Fletcher and Aiden’s kinky times, and sounds like the perfect place for gay men to gather and relax, plus it just sounds like a fun place, gay or not. There is a lot of kink in the book, but it fits into the story seamlessly, a natural progression to Fletcher and Aiden’s growing relationship. The book held my interest, I was invested in the characters and their growing closeness, and I was very pleased with the conclusion. A very entertaining read.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary review.
Fletcher has been widowed for three years now, still has difficult times missing his husband, and is the single parent to his twelve year old daughter, Lucy. His therapist is helping continue his adjustment to his new life without Daniel, he misses someone to be close to, but isn’t sure he deserves to find someone. When he meets his daughter Lucy’s supply teacher (took me awhile to figure out that would be what we call a substitute teacher) and recognizes him from a kink club a couple of years ago, the attraction and interest is there on both sides. The two meet for dinner, and the physical connection is instantaneous. Aiden is a Dom, and that is a side Fletcher has been missing since his husband’s death. Daniel had been his Dom and Fletcher misses the submissive roll as a way to turn control over to someone else and just be without all the stresses in his life. When Fletcher and Aiden go to Maverick Molly’s kink club, they are able to start exploring their D/s dynamic. This becomes very beneficial for Fletcher as he must deal with a very hurtful and stressful personal problem in his life.
Fletcher’s grief and feelings are very true to life as he goes through the stages of loss, and Aiden is very supportive of him, able to understand what Fletcher needs in the BDSM dynamic and can give him what he needs to cope with the new challenges in his life. Lucy is a precocious twelve year old, as smart-alecky as twelve year olds can be, but also very perceptive and loving, with a great relationship with her dad. The world building of Maverick Molly’s is such that it is the perfect backdrop for Fletcher and Aiden’s kinky times, and sounds like the perfect place for gay men to gather and relax, plus it just sounds like a fun place, gay or not. There is a lot of kink in the book, but it fits into the story seamlessly, a natural progression to Fletcher and Aiden’s growing relationship. The book held my interest, I was invested in the characters and their growing closeness, and I was very pleased with the conclusion. A very entertaining read.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary review.
May 7, 2024
We are back to the beautiful and kinky world of Maverick Molly - a very special, safe place, where gay men can explore the intricacies of D/S dynamics, play games Victorian style and enjoy the performance of the servers slash entertainers, who are there not only to serve drinks, but ensure that the customers feel welcome. And while for the readers who haven't read about Maverick Molly, that might sound like a sex dungeon, the servers aren't sex workers. The idea behind it, is completely different - a safe place for like minded people who enjoy travelling back in time, surrounded by the cosy atmosphere of the Victorian era and indulging a fantasy of being part of a time long gone, while sipping a drink and playing Parlor games. Sounds cosy, inviting and warm! Fletcher and Aiden's story is beautifully interwoven in the delicate threads of this magnificent fictional world.
After the unexpected death of his beloved husband, Fletcher is not only grieving, but floundering. Daniel has been a significant part of his life for many years - a soul mate, a friend, a Dom. Summarised in one word - Everything! A part of this wonderful man still breathes and exist in his biological daughter and Fletcher is pouring all his love and devotion in raising the child. But there is time to grieve and time to live! While the memories are bitter-sweet, Fletcher slowly starts to move on. And he finds the perfect temptation to do so in Aiden. The instant flare of attraction between both men turns into a sweet love story and interesting exploration of the D/S lifestyle.
After reading some of AE Lister's books, I quickly realised that heavy emotional topics, combined with healthy dose of kink, are their "bread and butter", a dystinct signature that makes them stand out and fit so well in the Author's writing style. And that's something I love in the books I read.
After the unexpected death of his beloved husband, Fletcher is not only grieving, but floundering. Daniel has been a significant part of his life for many years - a soul mate, a friend, a Dom. Summarised in one word - Everything! A part of this wonderful man still breathes and exist in his biological daughter and Fletcher is pouring all his love and devotion in raising the child. But there is time to grieve and time to live! While the memories are bitter-sweet, Fletcher slowly starts to move on. And he finds the perfect temptation to do so in Aiden. The instant flare of attraction between both men turns into a sweet love story and interesting exploration of the D/S lifestyle.
After reading some of AE Lister's books, I quickly realised that heavy emotional topics, combined with healthy dose of kink, are their "bread and butter", a dystinct signature that makes them stand out and fit so well in the Author's writing style. And that's something I love in the books I read.
May 7, 2024
🖤🔥Forfeits // Parlor Games 2 // AE Lister 🔥🖤
Releasing May 7
Y’all know that the intersection of shmink and healing is where my favorite books live and AE Lister Aced those themes in Forfeits!
Forfeits is a journey into Fletcher’s grief and path to love after loss. Not only do we experienced his grief as a widower, a now single father, but also as a sub who lost his Dom. In steps, Aiden with the patience of a saint and the sinfully dirty mind of a Dom.
Now to the shmink. AE Lister writes unique and STEAMY shmink. I love how the couple shmink journey grew as they did and the result was a spicy, spicy read 🥵. Check those tags below!
The hurt comfort, and healing in this book were emotional, well done, and absolutely fulfilling! It made for a well balanced and lovely read! Can’t wait to revisit the Molly boys in the next book!
🔥 Victorian Shmink Club Series- Can be enjoyed Standalone
🖤 Grief- Love After Loss
🔥 🐝D$M
🖤 Single Dad / Daughter’s Teacher
🔥 Older S-b , Younger D•m
🖤 Healing, Hurt Comfort
🔥K!nky tags:
Strict Top/ Bottom: Mostly, but no.
Ds
B•ndage
Sp🍑nking + Impact Play
SM
Degradation + Humiliation +Objectification
Pet Play
Role Play + Medical Play
Sensory Play
Toys
Milking
💋 @read.me.romance
Releasing May 7
Y’all know that the intersection of shmink and healing is where my favorite books live and AE Lister Aced those themes in Forfeits!
Forfeits is a journey into Fletcher’s grief and path to love after loss. Not only do we experienced his grief as a widower, a now single father, but also as a sub who lost his Dom. In steps, Aiden with the patience of a saint and the sinfully dirty mind of a Dom.
Now to the shmink. AE Lister writes unique and STEAMY shmink. I love how the couple shmink journey grew as they did and the result was a spicy, spicy read 🥵. Check those tags below!
The hurt comfort, and healing in this book were emotional, well done, and absolutely fulfilling! It made for a well balanced and lovely read! Can’t wait to revisit the Molly boys in the next book!
🔥 Victorian Shmink Club Series- Can be enjoyed Standalone
🖤 Grief- Love After Loss
🔥 🐝D$M
🖤 Single Dad / Daughter’s Teacher
🔥 Older S-b , Younger D•m
🖤 Healing, Hurt Comfort
🔥K!nky tags:
Strict Top/ Bottom: Mostly, but no.
Ds
B•ndage
Sp🍑nking + Impact Play
SM
Degradation + Humiliation +Objectification
Pet Play
Role Play + Medical Play
Sensory Play
Toys
Milking
💋 @read.me.romance
May 12, 2024
The club is only part of this engaging story by AE Lister and while the kink is marvelous the wider story is terrific. I am always impressed when I finish a book by this author and realize how much they have managed to stuff in there. As usual their pacing and plotting are perfectly balanced and you realize how unusual that is when you read as much as I do. Especially with books about kink it is tricky not to let it overwhelm the story or for the kinky times to feel like they are just put in there because it’s a trend that is popular. Fletcher and Aiden meet and fall into a relationship and then love in a very real way and if I had to choose one word to describe this novel it would be just that, real. Fletcher is such a painful character to read about but I love how everything and everyone (eventually) in his life conspires to get him to go out with Aiden. Aiden as a character is not as obviously sympathetic but he definitely proves that you don’t need to be a billionaire to be a good Dom. As usual with books that I love I wish it was longer but I think it ends at a really good point. I can’t wait to see who is next to get together at Maverick Molly’s.
Definitely AE Lister’s best series yet.
I got a copy of this book through GRR and this is my honest review
Definitely AE Lister’s best series yet.
I got a copy of this book through GRR and this is my honest review
May 2, 2024
This story, while being kinky, is also really about Fletcher and his grief over his dead husband. Fletcher's husband suddenly passed away three years ago leaving him to raise their daughter. She's a whole lot of fun and keeps him on his toes, but it's through her that he meets Aiden. What I liked about it, is that even though Fletcher has moved through a lot of his grief, I liked how AE Lister still showed ways it manifested and didn't shy away from the fact that it's ok to always to feel a loss like this. Aiden is incredibly patient with Fletcher and I loved the scenes these two did together. Not only that, Aiden and Fletcher really work as a couple for me. They are incredibly supportive and help give the other what they need.
You can definitely read this on it's own. While we do see the previous couple, it's very briefly and you don't need to know their story to enjoy this one. I love how these two know about Molly's and that we get to see more of Robin. I hope we get to see Robin and Patrick as they're very cute!
You can definitely read this on it's own. While we do see the previous couple, it's very briefly and you don't need to know their story to enjoy this one. I love how these two know about Molly's and that we get to see more of Robin. I hope we get to see Robin and Patrick as they're very cute!
May 10, 2024
Loving this series a whole bunch! I love how the author creates a kind of dual setting, which is so uniquely done. The romance between Aiden and Fletcher feels very anchored in the modern world, but when the scene shifts to Maverick Molly’s you really feel transported to the Victorian era. I also absolutely loved both MCs, and this was a beautifully real depiction of grief. It is painful at times but also very hopeful as Fletcher learns to move forward without forgetting the love he lost. I also really enjoyed Lucy, Fletcher’s daughter. I’m often not a fan of kids in romance novels, but she felt authentic and was a really lovely supporter of her dad. I love this author’s books because they have a compelling mix of wonderfully creative steam and beautifully written and authentic feels. That’s pretty special. Loved this one a lot.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
May 13, 2024
I thought the author did a great job capturing Fletcher's grief and the way he decided to limit his life to caring for his twelve year old daughter. That works for a time, but eventually Fletcher begins to miss having an adult relationship - someone to love and be loved by - as well as explore other aspects of his life. When he meets his daughter's substitute teacher and discovers they have met before, their attraction reignites and Aiden helps Fletcher realize that living a full life isn't a betrayal of everything he had with his late husband. His role as a parent is challenged just as he's beginning to open up and he and Aiden have to fight to be together and hold on to the family they are building. This is also one where the author gets Lucy, Fletcher's daughter right. She's a realistic, very bright twelve year old so things aren't always peaches and cream, but she and her dad have a great relationship.
May 10, 2024
Grief is dealt with so beautifully in this latest instalment of the Parlor Games series. It's a slice-of-live gem, that manages to be sexy, funny, sweet and devastating all at once.
I adore how well A E Lister captures the everyday and turns it into beautiful storytelling that hangs with you afterwards.
If grief/death of a loved one is a trigger for you, this will be a tough read at times, but oh so worth hanging in there to see how things work out for Fletcher and his daughter after the loss of his husband Daniel. I've been through a similar loss and will admit that at times I had to put the book down, take a deep breath, and carry on. It's so raw and real, and doesn't sugar coat dealing with grief. But it's by far and away a story about hope. About picking yourself up and finding what it means to live again. It's uplifting, and hot as hell.
I adore how well A E Lister captures the everyday and turns it into beautiful storytelling that hangs with you afterwards.
If grief/death of a loved one is a trigger for you, this will be a tough read at times, but oh so worth hanging in there to see how things work out for Fletcher and his daughter after the loss of his husband Daniel. I've been through a similar loss and will admit that at times I had to put the book down, take a deep breath, and carry on. It's so raw and real, and doesn't sugar coat dealing with grief. But it's by far and away a story about hope. About picking yourself up and finding what it means to live again. It's uplifting, and hot as hell.
May 10, 2024
I absolutely loved the first "Parlour Games" book and this was a great addition. Though they both feature heavily on the kink this book was a much more emotive story. All the characters were just spot on and you really empathised with Fletcher who is a widower and has been in mourning for three years. He also misses the Dom/Sub relationship he had with his late husband but finally realises he needs to move on when he meets his daughter's teacher Aiden. Aiden is a Dom and encourages him to talk about his late husband, and as their friendship develops helps him with the d/s that he still craves. They embark on a very steamy relationship with so much kink! Of course this helps Fletcher come to terms with his past and the grief allowing him to enjoy his new relationship to the fullest.
I received a free arc copy from GRR and this is my honest review.
I received a free arc copy from GRR and this is my honest review.
May 30, 2024
You may remember Patrick who appeared in Maverick Molly's in book one of this series. Fletcher is his uncle, who lost his husband Daniel three years ago and is realising he's missing parts of the things he has suppressed in his grief.
When he meets his teenage daughter's cute supply teacher, who in a few weeks won't be working with her anymore, he sees something he's definitely been missing.
The chance to take part in the D/s scene again.
Maverick Molly's and the whole crew are terrific set up for this faux Victorian kink gentlemen's club, cute cosplay, flirting and more.
This book deals with the aftermath of grief, finding yourself again and hope, plus the trials of parenting as a lone parent.
It's just as fun as the first one either lots of laughter, emotional revelations, spice and sweetness.
When he meets his teenage daughter's cute supply teacher, who in a few weeks won't be working with her anymore, he sees something he's definitely been missing.
The chance to take part in the D/s scene again.
Maverick Molly's and the whole crew are terrific set up for this faux Victorian kink gentlemen's club, cute cosplay, flirting and more.
This book deals with the aftermath of grief, finding yourself again and hope, plus the trials of parenting as a lone parent.
It's just as fun as the first one either lots of laughter, emotional revelations, spice and sweetness.
May 4, 2024
Really loved the second in the series! Forfeits has so many great attributes-- it's kinky AF, but in a sweet way that is not dude bro macho (which many are), but instead is caring and kind. This is actually my first book with BDSM and a Black character, and I'm here for it! I am Black, and I think Lister does an excellent job of writing Aiden so well that I actually forgot he was Black.
I particularly love the relationships in this book: Aiden and Lucy, as well as Fletcher and Lucy, and even the grandparents are written so well. It reminds me that life is messy, and two (or ten) things can occur simultaneously. Yes, a man can be a widower, father, boyfriend/ lover, and this is a great representation of all of those things and how they entertwine
I particularly love the relationships in this book: Aiden and Lucy, as well as Fletcher and Lucy, and even the grandparents are written so well. It reminds me that life is messy, and two (or ten) things can occur simultaneously. Yes, a man can be a widower, father, boyfriend/ lover, and this is a great representation of all of those things and how they entertwine
May 7, 2024
Lister doesn't shy away from hitting you right in the feels from the very beginning of this book, showing the depth of widower Fletcher's grief in the prologue. He's on a bit more of an even keel once we get to the meat of the book, but he's certainly not expecting a familiar face from that previous moment in his life to be the one to help him on the road to full healing. As a single father, Fletcher is not the only one affected by his relationship arc; Lister nicely balances the fun, kinky elements of their deepening dynamic with both the inevitable and shocking external conflicts that arise because of the importance of his daughter in his life.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
May 9, 2024
Fletcher's grief is so palpable you literally feel as though you're experiencing it yourself.
I loved how well it was portrayed and how Fletcher healed slowly and realistically.
Lucy is definitely a handful and keeps Fletcher busy which is another reason he's been reluctant to try finding someone to scene with.
When he meets Aiden they have a very steamy encounter and discover how great their compatibility is.
Of course there's some complications but I loved how realistically everything was handled.
Aiden was amazing at giving Fletcher the support and encouragement to realize that while he'll never stop loving his husband it's also ok to learn to make room in his heart and his life for another type of love.
I loved how well it was portrayed and how Fletcher healed slowly and realistically.
Lucy is definitely a handful and keeps Fletcher busy which is another reason he's been reluctant to try finding someone to scene with.
When he meets Aiden they have a very steamy encounter and discover how great their compatibility is.
Of course there's some complications but I loved how realistically everything was handled.
Aiden was amazing at giving Fletcher the support and encouragement to realize that while he'll never stop loving his husband it's also ok to learn to make room in his heart and his life for another type of love.
May 9, 2024
Well this is so out of my lane again, but I liked mostly all of it. And yes there will always be parts of kink that don’t kick our tyres but it was still a learning curve.
Great characters yet again AE Lister has done a great job of normalcy in the kink world. Both Fletcher and Aidan are just scrummy.
The heartfelt love Fletcher had for his husband Daniel whom passed is just beautiful and how Aidan is not jealous but openly helps Fletcher overcome areas of guilt and move forward.
TMaverick Mobley’s was fabulous! And wow Robin certainly pushed with the in law grandparents about Lucy was wonderful. We always need people in our corner and this came through in the book.
It was a great ride and cannot wait for the next!
Great characters yet again AE Lister has done a great job of normalcy in the kink world. Both Fletcher and Aidan are just scrummy.
The heartfelt love Fletcher had for his husband Daniel whom passed is just beautiful and how Aidan is not jealous but openly helps Fletcher overcome areas of guilt and move forward.
TMaverick Mobley’s was fabulous! And wow Robin certainly pushed with the in law grandparents about Lucy was wonderful. We always need people in our corner and this came through in the book.
It was a great ride and cannot wait for the next!
April 13, 2024
Another great book in this series. I read it in one sitting. The club Maverick Molly's is a nice backdrop for this story but the story is not as focused on the club as the last one was but more on the emotional journey of the main couple. I loved the supporting relationship these two MCs built. As it is only written from Fletcher's perspective we don't learn as much about Aiden, but it never felt one-sided. The play scenes were next level. AE Lister just has a way to write about kink that is so filthy and healthy and sucks you right in even if it doesn't exactly hit your preferences. If you're looking for an emotional read with an enormous helping of filth I do recommend this.
May 5, 2024
I had high expectations for this book for many reasons - for one, it’s AE Lister. For another, book one was amazing with a premise I had never read before and I have to say this is even more exceptional. The emotions of the loss of a spouse and parent, the fear of caring for someone new and the absolute joy of finding something within yourself that you thought was lost all came together in this moving, beautiful story. Fletcher and Aiden are so captivating together - the heat, the care and the melding of their interests had the steam coming off the page. I can’t say enough - absolutely fabulous, unique book and I am so excited for the next one!
May 11, 2024
Fletcher and Aiden ❤️
4 Stars ⭐️
This was genuinely a sweet & comfort filled relationship build outside of the bedroom, let me tell you when these two hit the D/S side of this relationship...🥵 they were like two different men coming out to play. With that being said: the dynamic in and out of the D/S relationship was great, characters were well written, a bit of drama, and swoon worthy moments made me a very happy reader. I would recommend and I am looking forward to the next book.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
4 Stars ⭐️
This was genuinely a sweet & comfort filled relationship build outside of the bedroom, let me tell you when these two hit the D/S side of this relationship...🥵 they were like two different men coming out to play. With that being said: the dynamic in and out of the D/S relationship was great, characters were well written, a bit of drama, and swoon worthy moments made me a very happy reader. I would recommend and I am looking forward to the next book.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
April 23, 2024
This was a bit of a different read for me. I'm used to spice and kink, but what stood out more was a story also dealing with loss and grief. Fletcher and Lucy dealing with the loss of his husband and her father added something to the story that I don't usually come across in my standard reading. It took me a bit to really get into the story. The start was jarring but I think necessary to the story. Once I got going the story went by faster than I expected.
May 7, 2024
I debates between 4 or 5 stars, but ultimately rounded up because I still enjoyed this series and the world it's in.
I loved that Aiden was so attuned to Fletcher's needs and was there for him through all the different situations. The different kinks he introduced to Fletcher were not what I usually read but I still enjoyed reading them exploring it with each other.
I just wished this had taken place a few more years after Daniel's (Fletcher's husband) death. It seemed it was talked about very often, and even 60% into the book, Fletcher was still having flashbacks to their moments together and it just seemed like Aiden is an afterthought. I just wished there was a bigger gap for the grieving period (mostly for Fletcher, since their daughter, Lucy seems to have adjusted a bit better by 3 years), so that Daniel's death and present wasn't always so prevalent in the romance and moments between Fletcher and Aiden.
Loved the cameos of Robin and Patrick (Fletcher's nephew) and Toby and Alastair, and the other people from Maverick Molly's. I'm intrigued to know what the next book is. There seems to be so many characters I'd like to read about, I love all thebside characters and can't wait to see who's next!
I loved that Aiden was so attuned to Fletcher's needs and was there for him through all the different situations. The different kinks he introduced to Fletcher were not what I usually read but I still enjoyed reading them exploring it with each other.
I just wished this had taken place a few more years after Daniel's (Fletcher's husband) death. It seemed it was talked about very often, and even 60% into the book, Fletcher was still having flashbacks to their moments together and it just seemed like Aiden is an afterthought. I just wished there was a bigger gap for the grieving period (mostly for Fletcher, since their daughter, Lucy seems to have adjusted a bit better by 3 years), so that Daniel's death and present wasn't always so prevalent in the romance and moments between Fletcher and Aiden.
Loved the cameos of Robin and Patrick (Fletcher's nephew) and Toby and Alastair, and the other people from Maverick Molly's. I'm intrigued to know what the next book is. There seems to be so many characters I'd like to read about, I love all thebside characters and can't wait to see who's next!
May 9, 2024
This was another good addition to the series, Fletcher is still grieving the loss of his husband and Dom but he meets their daughters teacher and a friendship starts to develop were Aiden encourages him to speak about his husband Daniel and a relationship starts to develop after discussing their needs experienced Dom Aiden helps Fletcher in the D/s capacity but also feelings develop and Fletcher learns it’s possible to love again. Good read looking forward to the next book in this series.
May 10, 2024
I enjoyed it. This was a second book set in the Parlor Games world and I enjoyed revisiting Maverick Molly's and its characters. This story has more of a healing after grief, single parent trope with few steamy moments. I liked the story a lot, but for me the hot and steamy moments between these two characters, were not all that steamy. Overall this was an interesting read and I am looking forward to more stories set in this series.
May 30, 2024
When I first started reading romance / erotica I read mostly MF BDSM stories ( it was the age of 50 Shades) and I think I had my fill of BDSM then. I still read it occassionally but prefer a really soft BDSM story. The first book in this series wasn't as hardcore. However, in this book I did experience pig play.
Aside from the BDSM, I did like the story and Fletcher and Aiden. Even Fletcher's daughter wasn't that annoying.
Aside from the BDSM, I did like the story and Fletcher and Aiden. Even Fletcher's daughter wasn't that annoying.
April 27, 2024
What a great book including a grieving widower and an support teacher. They are what they need. The story is about finding life back after loosing the partner. The interesting part here is the BDSM part, how the MC is also grieving here and how happy he gets when he find his total lick: family; kink and a partner,
I totally recommend this book.
I totally recommend this book.
May 8, 2024
I enjoyed this one. I didn't read the first book, but it didn't matter. I was easily able to follow Fletcher's story. I loved the single dad element and how his daughter was a little bit older. I loved how she was involved in the story and not just a mention handful of times. Grief is always a difficult one for me but it was done very well. The kink was hot as well.
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