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Working Out the Kinks #1
Bleib (Working out the Kinks)
What happens to a couple when one of them discovers a new kink that he’s not sure his partner will be into?
Dear Art,
I’m sure you get messages like this all the time but I feel like I don’t even know who I am anymore. I suppose I should start from the beginning... Three weeks ago, I saw puppy play for the first time and now I can’t stop obsessing about it. Wait, no, that’s not really the beginning...Ten years ago, my best friend who I’d been in love with my entire life told me he loved me too.
For ten years I’ve been living in complete bliss with Lars, the man of my dreams. Don’t get me wrong, we have our fights and disagreements (mostly because I do irritating shit and every once in awhile he reaches the end of his patience), but he is my other half in every way. I didn’t know I could love someone the way I love him.
Then, three weeks ago, I saw puppy play for the first time and now I can’t stop thinking about it. It’s not so different from when I realized I was gay, there was a moment where everything sort of clicked into place and my whole body was like “yes, THAT’S what we’ve been trying to figure out all this time.” At first I thought maybe I should just let it go because it’s not the kind of thing I can imagine my partner being into. But last week I went into a kink shop and ended up walking out with a puppy hood. I stashed it in our guest bedroom closet and haven’t even had the courage to take it out and try it on again, let alone show it to Lars. I don’t know what to do. How do I bring this up to him? And what if he isn’t into it? I feel like I don’t recognize myself anymore and I don’t know where to turn. Please help.
Sincerely,
One Lost Puppy
Dear Art,
I’m sure you get messages like this all the time but I feel like I don’t even know who I am anymore. I suppose I should start from the beginning... Three weeks ago, I saw puppy play for the first time and now I can’t stop obsessing about it. Wait, no, that’s not really the beginning...Ten years ago, my best friend who I’d been in love with my entire life told me he loved me too.
For ten years I’ve been living in complete bliss with Lars, the man of my dreams. Don’t get me wrong, we have our fights and disagreements (mostly because I do irritating shit and every once in awhile he reaches the end of his patience), but he is my other half in every way. I didn’t know I could love someone the way I love him.
Then, three weeks ago, I saw puppy play for the first time and now I can’t stop thinking about it. It’s not so different from when I realized I was gay, there was a moment where everything sort of clicked into place and my whole body was like “yes, THAT’S what we’ve been trying to figure out all this time.” At first I thought maybe I should just let it go because it’s not the kind of thing I can imagine my partner being into. But last week I went into a kink shop and ended up walking out with a puppy hood. I stashed it in our guest bedroom closet and haven’t even had the courage to take it out and try it on again, let alone show it to Lars. I don’t know what to do. How do I bring this up to him? And what if he isn’t into it? I feel like I don’t recognize myself anymore and I don’t know where to turn. Please help.
Sincerely,
One Lost Puppy
184 pages, Paperback
First published January 11, 2019
307 people are currently reading
592 people want to read
About the author
K.M. Neuhold
101 books3,301 followersK.M.Neuhold has long since been a romance junkie. When she’s not writing she’s reading or spending time snuggling with her husky or her husband. She fell in love with M/M romance last year and hasn’t been able to turn back. There’s nothing she loves more than love in all its forms.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
January 26, 2019
*3.5 stars*
I KNOW what you guys are thinking. Puppy play?? Really? But little innocent me (winks) is intrigued by the more offbeat side of BDSM, and since pain isn't my bag, puppy play falls right into my zone. Yes, puppy play.
I didn't read the blurb very well, however, and didn't realize this was an established couple story, which I usually hate. I'm just not into a couple where the intimacy is already there prior to the reader meeting the two MCs. However, with Stay, the established couple aspect was adorable! I mean, this is a low-angst, super-lovey couple, and I stanned them so hard. Very low angst story, people.
I'd say this is a cute intro to puppy play, but it isn't a very hard-core story, for those who are afraid of delving into the unknown. The majority of the story is the two MCs working on their communication and dynamics and exploring the kink, but the kink parts are mostly playful and not sexual. I was a little disappointing by that, actually, because I was hoping for some nookie in the puppy play state, but it was mostly cuddling and trying on clothes.
I really, really liked the first part of the story. Getting to know the two guys and seeing them together and with their friend was my favorite part. I was hoping for some more intense kink-play, but it was a little too tame and grew a bit dull for my tastes. I still really enjoyed the story, and I think even kink-averse people who want to try something outside of their comfort zone would enjoy it.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
I KNOW what you guys are thinking. Puppy play?? Really? But little innocent me (winks) is intrigued by the more offbeat side of BDSM, and since pain isn't my bag, puppy play falls right into my zone. Yes, puppy play.
I didn't read the blurb very well, however, and didn't realize this was an established couple story, which I usually hate. I'm just not into a couple where the intimacy is already there prior to the reader meeting the two MCs. However, with Stay, the established couple aspect was adorable! I mean, this is a low-angst, super-lovey couple, and I stanned them so hard. Very low angst story, people.
I'd say this is a cute intro to puppy play, but it isn't a very hard-core story, for those who are afraid of delving into the unknown. The majority of the story is the two MCs working on their communication and dynamics and exploring the kink, but the kink parts are mostly playful and not sexual. I was a little disappointing by that, actually, because I was hoping for some nookie in the puppy play state, but it was mostly cuddling and trying on clothes.
I really, really liked the first part of the story. Getting to know the two guys and seeing them together and with their friend was my favorite part. I was hoping for some more intense kink-play, but it was a little too tame and grew a bit dull for my tastes. I still really enjoyed the story, and I think even kink-averse people who want to try something outside of their comfort zone would enjoy it.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
January 31, 2019
RTC when I'm at the laptop as the stupid Kindle just lost what I already wrote.
Okay, now that it's not going to disappear on me I'll do the review :) This book is an excellent example of how to write about a kink exploration when one of the couples isn't sure what their partner will think about it.
K.M. takes the reader on a journey as much as she takes the characters as they begin to explore the dynamics of puppy play - a kink which is based in mutual power exchange and the absolute freedom which comes with giving up control to a Master who takes care of everything for their pup.
I absolutely adored this, puppy play is generally full of sweet expressions of love and care and comfort and this was no exception. Jonah is afraid Lars - his lover of 10 years, but his best friend since birth (their mothers were also best friends and pregnant at the same time) - will think there's something odd with him because he's drawn to the idea of being a pup.
There's nothing salacious about this book, it's romance at its purest, the need to make your partner happy and the pleasure gained from being the one to do it forms a hallmark on the relationship between Jonah and Lars.
After a little bit of angsting, a lot of conversation and some awesome side characters that I'm dying to get the stories of (and please, please, please K.M. you have to give Vale to Adrian and find someone new for Seb!), this book dives headlong into what makes puppy play attractive.
It's not an overly sexual book, the deep connection between Jonah and Lars is strengthened and extended by the puppy play, they're incredibly sweet together, the dynamic is very much power exchange as Jonah willingly gives up control to Lars over all to do with their play together.
Personally, I'd say this is a wonderful book to read if you want to poke a toe into non-vanilla kink.
The sexual side of the narrative focuses more on the existing relationship between the two men, rather than the puppy play's more erotic potential, and it works perfectly for this pairing. They're friends, soulmates, lovers and they talk like grown-ups about everything, which was a delight to read.
There's also a side plot featuring a blog written by the brother of one of the people Lars works with which was a clever device to give the reader more info about the world of kink and one which I thought fit well within the narrative.
I'm looking forward to more from this series.
#ARC kindly provided by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
Okay, now that it's not going to disappear on me I'll do the review :) This book is an excellent example of how to write about a kink exploration when one of the couples isn't sure what their partner will think about it.
K.M. takes the reader on a journey as much as she takes the characters as they begin to explore the dynamics of puppy play - a kink which is based in mutual power exchange and the absolute freedom which comes with giving up control to a Master who takes care of everything for their pup.
I absolutely adored this, puppy play is generally full of sweet expressions of love and care and comfort and this was no exception. Jonah is afraid Lars - his lover of 10 years, but his best friend since birth (their mothers were also best friends and pregnant at the same time) - will think there's something odd with him because he's drawn to the idea of being a pup.
There's nothing salacious about this book, it's romance at its purest, the need to make your partner happy and the pleasure gained from being the one to do it forms a hallmark on the relationship between Jonah and Lars.
After a little bit of angsting, a lot of conversation and some awesome side characters that I'm dying to get the stories of (and please, please, please K.M. you have to give Vale to Adrian and find someone new for Seb!), this book dives headlong into what makes puppy play attractive.
It's not an overly sexual book, the deep connection between Jonah and Lars is strengthened and extended by the puppy play, they're incredibly sweet together, the dynamic is very much power exchange as Jonah willingly gives up control to Lars over all to do with their play together.
Personally, I'd say this is a wonderful book to read if you want to poke a toe into non-vanilla kink.
The sexual side of the narrative focuses more on the existing relationship between the two men, rather than the puppy play's more erotic potential, and it works perfectly for this pairing. They're friends, soulmates, lovers and they talk like grown-ups about everything, which was a delight to read.
There's also a side plot featuring a blog written by the brother of one of the people Lars works with which was a clever device to give the reader more info about the world of kink and one which I thought fit well within the narrative.
I'm looking forward to more from this series.
#ARC kindly provided by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
no-just-nooooooo
January 7, 2019I really liked Neuhold's 3 Ballsy Boys books, but the Puppy Play trope in this one...
March 19, 2025
Puppy play can be hit or miss for me, but this one was really good!!!It was all about trust, care, and that deep emotional connection rather than just the kink itself, and I loved how it was handled.
Jonah and Lars have been best friends since birth, lovers for ten years, but Jonah’s terrified that admitting his pup side will make Lars see him differently. Spoiler: it doesn’t.Instead, Lars fully embraces it, and their relationship somehow becomes even stronger. There’s some light angst, a lot of heartfelt convos, and an amazing cast of side characters.
This book isn’t super sexual, the puppy play isn’t about that here. It’s about Jonah letting go and Lars taking care of him in a way that just works for them. And god, they are so sweet together. Their dynamic is all about power exchange, trust, and just wanting to make each other happy.
If you’re curious about puppy play but don’t want to dive into something overly kinky, this book is a perfect intro. It’s gorgeous, soft and just so well done💓!!!
Jonah and Lars have been best friends since birth, lovers for ten years, but Jonah’s terrified that admitting his pup side will make Lars see him differently. Spoiler: it doesn’t.Instead, Lars fully embraces it, and their relationship somehow becomes even stronger. There’s some light angst, a lot of heartfelt convos, and an amazing cast of side characters.
This book isn’t super sexual, the puppy play isn’t about that here. It’s about Jonah letting go and Lars taking care of him in a way that just works for them. And god, they are so sweet together. Their dynamic is all about power exchange, trust, and just wanting to make each other happy.
If you’re curious about puppy play but don’t want to dive into something overly kinky, this book is a perfect intro. It’s gorgeous, soft and just so well done💓!!!
January 13, 2019
*3.5 stars*
After reading the blurb I was almost certain I'd be uncomfortable for a major part of the book but I wanted to try it anyway, mainly because it was about an established couple. That little detail is what sealed the deal for me and I decided to give this story a try.
I was very surprised to find out that the book was mostly sweet and playful, centering around two people discovering something new about them and exploring it together. Jonah and Lars found a new aspect of their relationship that they hadn't noticed it was there, in the background, all along. So after ten years as partners and a lifetime of being friends they decided to try something new and see how and if it worked for them.
There was a bit of angst at the beginning as Jonah was trying to figure what his new fascination meant for him and his relationship and I was giddy reading about those weeks of him being secretive and distant and Lars suspecting all kinds of things, because I was sure they were going to make it and a misunderstanding like that wasn't enough to damage what they had built.
I liked that the bigger of the two was the submissive and that the smaller was taking the lead (pun intended) in their lives. Jonah was happier when he didn't have to think about everyday stuff and when Lars was taking control and making decisions for him. That wasn't something new for them, but it started playing a bigger role in their lives and they began to experiment with it.
We have a perfect HEA for the couple and a promise of more books like this one where various side characters will find their match. I liked this first installment but I'm not sure if I'll continue with the series unless there are more stories about established couples.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. *
After reading the blurb I was almost certain I'd be uncomfortable for a major part of the book but I wanted to try it anyway, mainly because it was about an established couple. That little detail is what sealed the deal for me and I decided to give this story a try.
I was very surprised to find out that the book was mostly sweet and playful, centering around two people discovering something new about them and exploring it together. Jonah and Lars found a new aspect of their relationship that they hadn't noticed it was there, in the background, all along. So after ten years as partners and a lifetime of being friends they decided to try something new and see how and if it worked for them.
There was a bit of angst at the beginning as Jonah was trying to figure what his new fascination meant for him and his relationship and I was giddy reading about those weeks of him being secretive and distant and Lars suspecting all kinds of things, because I was sure they were going to make it and a misunderstanding like that wasn't enough to damage what they had built.
I liked that the bigger of the two was the submissive and that the smaller was taking the lead (pun intended) in their lives. Jonah was happier when he didn't have to think about everyday stuff and when Lars was taking control and making decisions for him. That wasn't something new for them, but it started playing a bigger role in their lives and they began to experiment with it.
We have a perfect HEA for the couple and a promise of more books like this one where various side characters will find their match. I liked this first installment but I'm not sure if I'll continue with the series unless there are more stories about established couples.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. *
January 16, 2019
I needed something sweet to read, and I'm SO happy I picked this story out! Even if you have never tried puppy play before, or are worried it might not be for you, I think you still need to at least give this one a shot, because Lars and Jonah will absolutely melt your heart.
The way that the puppy play and D/S elements came into their relationship just worked so perfectly for them. It was discussed smartly, and they communicated so well once things were in the open. I loved that this book started out with an established couple - they've been together for 10 years and their relationship really is quite solid - it's just that once they discover the puppy play and figured out the D/S roles, it's like it filled that little baby gap that they never knew was missing.
I loved how great Lars was with everything, how he was determined to be the best master for Jonah. I loved their friends - and Adrian totally needs a major HEA of his own! As do their other friends, Seb, and Vale and maybe even Art, who runs the website? I want HEAs for them all!
The way that the puppy play and D/S elements came into their relationship just worked so perfectly for them. It was discussed smartly, and they communicated so well once things were in the open. I loved that this book started out with an established couple - they've been together for 10 years and their relationship really is quite solid - it's just that once they discover the puppy play and figured out the D/S roles, it's like it filled that little baby gap that they never knew was missing.
I loved how great Lars was with everything, how he was determined to be the best master for Jonah. I loved their friends - and Adrian totally needs a major HEA of his own! As do their other friends, Seb, and Vale and maybe even Art, who runs the website? I want HEAs for them all!
January 16, 2019
I’ve read about all kind of kinks these last few years and while not much is too crazy for me, I do have a preference for some kinks. And puppy play isn’t it. And not even because I think it’s crazy weird, but because I always feel a little bored in these stories. The whole puppy play just isn’t really my thing.
I do love to read about established couples though, so this hit the mark with that one. And I really liked the first half when Jonah was figuring out how to tell Lars about his newfound interest in puppy play. And I loved how Lars was so understanding and sweet about it all.
But once they figured out puppy play was a thing they both wanted to explore, I lost interest a bit. Since the rest mostly focused on them playing around with their new kink.
So while this was enjoyable, I think if it had been a different kind of kink I would have enjoyed it even more.
I do love to read about established couples though, so this hit the mark with that one. And I really liked the first half when Jonah was figuring out how to tell Lars about his newfound interest in puppy play. And I loved how Lars was so understanding and sweet about it all.
But once they figured out puppy play was a thing they both wanted to explore, I lost interest a bit. Since the rest mostly focused on them playing around with their new kink.
So while this was enjoyable, I think if it had been a different kind of kink I would have enjoyed it even more.
January 7, 2019
I received a review copy of this book and was really surprised by how much I loved it, considering established relationship stories can be difficult to feel invested in. Lars and Jonah are unbelievably sweet, though, and this is the kind of puppy play book that eases you into the kink in a way that not only highlights the warm, fluffy feels of puppy play, but also does it in a way that feels respectful and insightful all at once. The problems these two MCs encounter never feel contrived or forced, and they work through them in ways that are organic and utterly heartwarming. A lovely read from one of my favorites.
January 22, 2019
Oh, this was long overdue. Thank you so much for this beautiful puppy play romance! What happens when you find a new kink you're into? Well, that's pretty awesome, isn't it? But what about sharing it with the love of your life without knowing what they'd say? Ah, that's a tough one.
Favorite quotes:
"He strokes himself slowly. It's the kind of stroke I've seen him use when he doesn't know I'm watching, when he's lying on the couch with his hand down the front of his pants, not really trying to get himself off, only wanting to chase the feeling of want and need, to revel in it."
"As soon as the weight is around my neck and the soft leather is brushing against my skin, my nerves dissipate. I am owned and I am loved."
;) Dig in & enjoy.
Favorite quotes:
"He strokes himself slowly. It's the kind of stroke I've seen him use when he doesn't know I'm watching, when he's lying on the couch with his hand down the front of his pants, not really trying to get himself off, only wanting to chase the feeling of want and need, to revel in it."
"As soon as the weight is around my neck and the soft leather is brushing against my skin, my nerves dissipate. I am owned and I am loved."
;) Dig in & enjoy.
January 31, 2019
I wasn’t sure what I was going to think about this, especially since established couple stories don’t often attract my interest, but was hoping that the kink element and having them explore it with each other would keep things lively, and it did for me!
Puppy play isn’t a kink that I can say I’m into or even knowledgeable about, but it was a lot of fun to experience it vicariously through these very adorable characters. I hope that future installments touch on other kinks that you don’t get to read about every day. Many books that offer up exploration of one or both partners’ kinks are limited to light BDSM elements, and if a blurb says that kink is important to the story, I expect more than a pair of handcuffs and a gentle spanking, so kudos to Neuhold for doing something different. I’d love to see what this author might come up with for looners, furries, whatever you call it when guys get off with sneakers, etc. I’ll be disappointed if any of these books don’t do something a little off the wall.
In terms of plot and pacing, the story was sweet as can be with very little conflict, and its primary issue was generally resolved early on. However, backdoor *ba-dum ching* pilots abound, with plenty of potential for side characters to Star in their own stories.
Lots of steam and cuddles. Great job leveraging the advantages of established couple sex: utter familiarity with each other and readiness to get down and make a filthy mess without the need for condom prep or clean-up awkwardness.
Puppy play isn’t a kink that I can say I’m into or even knowledgeable about, but it was a lot of fun to experience it vicariously through these very adorable characters. I hope that future installments touch on other kinks that you don’t get to read about every day. Many books that offer up exploration of one or both partners’ kinks are limited to light BDSM elements, and if a blurb says that kink is important to the story, I expect more than a pair of handcuffs and a gentle spanking, so kudos to Neuhold for doing something different. I’d love to see what this author might come up with for looners, furries, whatever you call it when guys get off with sneakers, etc. I’ll be disappointed if any of these books don’t do something a little off the wall.
In terms of plot and pacing, the story was sweet as can be with very little conflict, and its primary issue was generally resolved early on. However, backdoor *ba-dum ching* pilots abound, with plenty of potential for side characters to Star in their own stories.
Lots of steam and cuddles. Great job leveraging the advantages of established couple sex: utter familiarity with each other and readiness to get down and make a filthy mess without the need for condom prep or clean-up awkwardness.
Read
January 17, 2019I ended up skimming a lot of this so I'm not rating it.
January 13, 2019
A sweet couple and a good introduction to puppy play. It is very low on angst, and as a seasoned reader of puppy play, it lacked a little something for me, even though I can't really articulate what. Maybe I felt it all came together a little too easily.
The secondary characters are interesting, and I could definitely see myself reading future installments in the series.
The secondary characters are interesting, and I could definitely see myself reading future installments in the series.
December 27, 2024
This author did so many things right with this book; I absolutely ADORED it from the very first page to the very last <3333333!! Absolutely wonderful!! FIVE full stars and then some ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!!!
I have so much more to say and praise about, and it’s definitely coming so stay tuned 😊😊😊😊😊!!!
HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommended, even if Pup Play isn’t for you [which is how I feel], because this book, it introduces and explores it SO wonderfully ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️!! The author introduces it with wonderment and grace and honour and respect, and as beautiful as it was to see these two engaging in such a deep display of love and trust and passion and affection, this book was also equally HOT AS HELL 😊!! The sexy times between these two were RAWR 😬!! The truly loving and balanced relationship Neuhold created between Lars and Jonah is the kind of love you’d call EPIC, and I’ll DEFINITELY be reading the next books in the series; not only to see Lars and Jonah again, but to witness Seb’s, Vale’s, and Adrian’s glorious HEAs as well!!
And yes the HEA here was absolutely STUNNING ❤️❤️❤️!!
**************************************
Puppy Play is not my kink at all, like not at all, not in any way, shape, or form, whatsoever!! BUT, I am going to give this one a try because it sounds sweet and fluffy and fun, like a puppy :-P!! But seriously, this does sound sweet and fun, and I'm open minded, so I'll give this read a try :-)!!
I have so much more to say and praise about, and it’s definitely coming so stay tuned 😊😊😊😊😊!!!
HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommended, even if Pup Play isn’t for you [which is how I feel], because this book, it introduces and explores it SO wonderfully ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️!! The author introduces it with wonderment and grace and honour and respect, and as beautiful as it was to see these two engaging in such a deep display of love and trust and passion and affection, this book was also equally HOT AS HELL 😊!! The sexy times between these two were RAWR 😬!! The truly loving and balanced relationship Neuhold created between Lars and Jonah is the kind of love you’d call EPIC, and I’ll DEFINITELY be reading the next books in the series; not only to see Lars and Jonah again, but to witness Seb’s, Vale’s, and Adrian’s glorious HEAs as well!!
And yes the HEA here was absolutely STUNNING ❤️❤️❤️!!
**************************************
Puppy Play is not my kink at all, like not at all, not in any way, shape, or form, whatsoever!! BUT, I am going to give this one a try because it sounds sweet and fluffy and fun, like a puppy :-P!! But seriously, this does sound sweet and fun, and I'm open minded, so I'll give this read a try :-)!!
January 22, 2019
Lars und Jonah sind nicht nur ein Paar, sondern auch schon lebenslange Freunde. Die Liebe kam erst später, doch sie scheint unverbrüchlich und ihre Beziehung wirkt stabil und glücklich. Und die Gefühle zwischen ihnen sind noch immer stark und intensiv, auch wenn ihre Beziehung nun schon über zehn Jahre geht und sich natürlich kleine Abnutzungen eingeschlichen haben. Während Jonah als Arzt in einer Notfallsambulanz jeden Tag gefordert wird, arbeitet Lars als Tierarzt.
Ihr bequemes und geregeltes Leben bekommt jedoch leichte Risse, als Jonah auf einer Pride mit einem sehr ungewöhnlichen Kink konfrontiert wird - Puppy Play. Vom ersten Blick an, ist er fasziniert und will mehr über diesen Lifestyle herausfinden. Doch er ist unsicher wie Lars darauf reagieren könnte. Von nun an beginnt Jonah geheimniskrämerisch zu werden und macht Lars damit argwöhnisch und auch unsicher. Denn es gab doch nie Geheimnisse und Lars versteht die Welt nicht mehr, wieso Jonah sich immer mehr distanziert.
Lars und Jonah sind schon etwas älter und reifer. Jedoch reagieren sie auf diesen Kink wie junge Männer; neugierig, fasziniert und unsicher. Ihre scheinbar glückliche und stabile Beziehung gerät ins Wanken und sie beginnen beide irgendwie an sich und am anderen zu zweifeln. Das macht das Zusammenleben durchaus erschöpfend und auch schmerzlich. Denn sie lieben sich doch und müssen nun doch ihr Leben irgendwie neu sortieren.
Obwohl er keine Erfahrungen mit Puppy Play hat, geht Lars am Ende auf Jonahs Kink ein. Und dabei machen sie überraschende Entdeckungen und plötzlich ergibt vieles in ihrem Leben Sinn, das sie immer schon als völlig normal empfunden und doch auch Teil eines Kinks ist. Denn Lars ist es gewöhnt der dominante Teil ihrer Beziehung zu sein; Entscheidungen zu für Jonah und sich zu treffen. Und Jonah braucht Lars um eben Verantwortung abgeben und seinen stressigen Tagesablauf hinter sich lassen zu können.
Insgesamt war das Buch angenehm zu lesen und es ist solide geschrieben. An manchen Stellen war es mir jedoch ein wenig zu klinisch und ich hätte gern mehr von den Familien unserer Helden erfahren. Dass Lars im Grunde immer schon dominant war, hat den Schritt in diesen Kink für ihn wohl leichter gemacht und es für den Leser auch logischer erscheinen lassen. Dennoch hat dem Buch der letzte Funke gefehlt, der mich dann so richtig mitgerissen hätte.
Trotzdem gibt es eine Leseempfehlung für diese Geschichte und man darf sich auf Folgegeschichten freuen.
Ihr bequemes und geregeltes Leben bekommt jedoch leichte Risse, als Jonah auf einer Pride mit einem sehr ungewöhnlichen Kink konfrontiert wird - Puppy Play. Vom ersten Blick an, ist er fasziniert und will mehr über diesen Lifestyle herausfinden. Doch er ist unsicher wie Lars darauf reagieren könnte. Von nun an beginnt Jonah geheimniskrämerisch zu werden und macht Lars damit argwöhnisch und auch unsicher. Denn es gab doch nie Geheimnisse und Lars versteht die Welt nicht mehr, wieso Jonah sich immer mehr distanziert.
Lars und Jonah sind schon etwas älter und reifer. Jedoch reagieren sie auf diesen Kink wie junge Männer; neugierig, fasziniert und unsicher. Ihre scheinbar glückliche und stabile Beziehung gerät ins Wanken und sie beginnen beide irgendwie an sich und am anderen zu zweifeln. Das macht das Zusammenleben durchaus erschöpfend und auch schmerzlich. Denn sie lieben sich doch und müssen nun doch ihr Leben irgendwie neu sortieren.
Obwohl er keine Erfahrungen mit Puppy Play hat, geht Lars am Ende auf Jonahs Kink ein. Und dabei machen sie überraschende Entdeckungen und plötzlich ergibt vieles in ihrem Leben Sinn, das sie immer schon als völlig normal empfunden und doch auch Teil eines Kinks ist. Denn Lars ist es gewöhnt der dominante Teil ihrer Beziehung zu sein; Entscheidungen zu für Jonah und sich zu treffen. Und Jonah braucht Lars um eben Verantwortung abgeben und seinen stressigen Tagesablauf hinter sich lassen zu können.
Insgesamt war das Buch angenehm zu lesen und es ist solide geschrieben. An manchen Stellen war es mir jedoch ein wenig zu klinisch und ich hätte gern mehr von den Familien unserer Helden erfahren. Dass Lars im Grunde immer schon dominant war, hat den Schritt in diesen Kink für ihn wohl leichter gemacht und es für den Leser auch logischer erscheinen lassen. Dennoch hat dem Buch der letzte Funke gefehlt, der mich dann so richtig mitgerissen hätte.
Trotzdem gibt es eine Leseempfehlung für diese Geschichte und man darf sich auf Folgegeschichten freuen.
May 1, 2019
Alright, this book was something completely new for me and I had no idea what to think of it, but really every once in a while I need something different and exciting.
This was perfect for that.
So, I had no idea what puppy play even was before I came across this book, but I must say, even if it’s not really my thing, it was incredibly enjoyable. I love reading new things, and this was really ideal as a first book. Very low angst, and not too hard-core. I might be kinky when it comes to books (smirk) but not that much.
I really liked both MCs, I feel like they each fit really well into the roles of their relationship and understand each other perfectly. They were so cute together, all the time. They really tried to make each other comfortable and give each other the best they could when exploring this new kink. Even though I’m not a fan of when couples are already together at the start of the book; it was wonderful seeing them so in love and their relationship fit amazingly well into the puppy play.
I’m not really into BDSM - or at least most of it given that I do enjoy some of the lighter stuff - but I think I enjoyed this. Maybe I’ll even read more books like it, who knows?
This was perfect for that.
So, I had no idea what puppy play even was before I came across this book, but I must say, even if it’s not really my thing, it was incredibly enjoyable. I love reading new things, and this was really ideal as a first book. Very low angst, and not too hard-core. I might be kinky when it comes to books (smirk) but not that much.
I really liked both MCs, I feel like they each fit really well into the roles of their relationship and understand each other perfectly. They were so cute together, all the time. They really tried to make each other comfortable and give each other the best they could when exploring this new kink. Even though I’m not a fan of when couples are already together at the start of the book; it was wonderful seeing them so in love and their relationship fit amazingly well into the puppy play.
I’m not really into BDSM - or at least most of it given that I do enjoy some of the lighter stuff - but I think I enjoyed this. Maybe I’ll even read more books like it, who knows?
January 30, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
I was really excited to check out this first book in K.M. Neuhold’s new Working Out the Kinks series. I recently read my first book by the author, Beat of Their Own Drum, and really enjoyed it, so I was eager to try more of her work. And I was really intrigued with the set up for this book and the idea of seeing an established couple navigating how new kinky interests on the part of one partner may impact things between them. What happens if only one partner is into the idea? How might that affect their relationship? So this is an unusual set up and it really drew me in and I think Neuhold does a great job with it.
For all the angsty premise, this is a pretty low stress story. Yes, Jonah is really freaked out by his new interest in puppy play and what it means for him and Lars, and he is worried about how to tell his boyfriend. But this issue does get resolved pretty early on in the story and much of the book focuses on the guys exploring this new interest. So things are a bit easy here and there was a tiny part of me waiting for some sort of conflict to come later in the book. But I was also never bored and just loved the story and this couple, so I didn’t really miss the conflict.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
I was really excited to check out this first book in K.M. Neuhold’s new Working Out the Kinks series. I recently read my first book by the author, Beat of Their Own Drum, and really enjoyed it, so I was eager to try more of her work. And I was really intrigued with the set up for this book and the idea of seeing an established couple navigating how new kinky interests on the part of one partner may impact things between them. What happens if only one partner is into the idea? How might that affect their relationship? So this is an unusual set up and it really drew me in and I think Neuhold does a great job with it.
For all the angsty premise, this is a pretty low stress story. Yes, Jonah is really freaked out by his new interest in puppy play and what it means for him and Lars, and he is worried about how to tell his boyfriend. But this issue does get resolved pretty early on in the story and much of the book focuses on the guys exploring this new interest. So things are a bit easy here and there was a tiny part of me waiting for some sort of conflict to come later in the book. But I was also never bored and just loved the story and this couple, so I didn’t really miss the conflict.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
March 2, 2024
I liked the premise of this story, I liked the idea of an established couple exploring something new together.
I struggled with the pacing, it felt like there was this huge build up to Jonah telling Lars about his kink and it was quite anticlimactic when it happened.
I would have liked to see them explore and navigate it taking Lars some time to wrap his head around it. I felt like he went from finding it weird to being fully into it within a few hours.
I did really like both main characters but I did think at times they were written without quite enough maturity when they were supposedly both 35.
Also, the chastity element near the end was highly unrealistic. Wearing a metal cage for a full week on your first try? No mention of removing it for cleaning? It just seemed like the author maybe wasn’t totally clued up on this part.
Overall it was a fun read, I enjoyed the pup play stuff and the different take on it being an established couple but it’s just missed the mark for me.
I struggled with the pacing, it felt like there was this huge build up to Jonah telling Lars about his kink and it was quite anticlimactic when it happened.
I would have liked to see them explore and navigate it taking Lars some time to wrap his head around it. I felt like he went from finding it weird to being fully into it within a few hours.
I did really like both main characters but I did think at times they were written without quite enough maturity when they were supposedly both 35.
Also, the chastity element near the end was highly unrealistic. Wearing a metal cage for a full week on your first try? No mention of removing it for cleaning? It just seemed like the author maybe wasn’t totally clued up on this part.
Overall it was a fun read, I enjoyed the pup play stuff and the different take on it being an established couple but it’s just missed the mark for me.
January 26, 2024
4.25 ⭐️ Ahhhh there was so much I loved about this. I’ve never read a romance book about an already established couple navigating their relationship so I was pleasantly surprised by this. I find KM Neuhold’s writing so relaxing and engaging. This book really opened my eyes to many aspects of puppy play. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I found it so beautiful, cute and very hot. Lars and Jonah are super loveable. This would’ve been 5 stars but a few times I forgot whose POV it was during internal monologues which took me out of the story. But when they interacted it much clearer because of the power play and Jonah’s playfulness. The side characters were funny and well fleshed out also, Overall really enjoyed this one and will read the next in the series.
September 2, 2019
2.5 stars
Hmmmmn..... in a way I’m glad I read the second book of this series first because I honestly don’t think I would have read the sequel if I read this first. I mean, while this would have been a better introduction to puppy play, it was just a little bit pointless after they both got into it and that was way before the 50% mark. So yeah, I skimmed the last 60% because it was a little bit too cutesy lovey for me 🙊
Hmmmmn..... in a way I’m glad I read the second book of this series first because I honestly don’t think I would have read the sequel if I read this first. I mean, while this would have been a better introduction to puppy play, it was just a little bit pointless after they both got into it and that was way before the 50% mark. So yeah, I skimmed the last 60% because it was a little bit too cutesy lovey for me 🙊
January 25, 2019
A very high 2.5 just not quite a 3 for me because I wasn’t that into the characters.
But I do love the plot and the idea of a couple that’s been together for a while learning their way around a new Kink!
But I do love the plot and the idea of a couple that’s been together for a while learning their way around a new Kink!
January 11, 2019
I have loved KM’s writing since the minute I opened Rescue Me (Heathens Ink Book 1) and I haven’t looked back. I will say I was a little nervous going into this since it’s so different (in a good way) from her other series, but almost as soon as I opened it I knew I had NOTHING to be worried about.
STAY was a beautiful story that was so sweet and fun and sad all rolled into one novel.
Jonah had me cheering for him from page one with how sweet he was, and at times he had so much sass that I couldn’t help but laugh at the ways he teased Lars. But when he began to discover his puppy side and had so much fear over what Lars would say, I just wanted to cuddle him and make him smile again.
Lars is a strong character who just wants nothing more than to care for Jonah anyway he can and when he sees Jonah pulling away from him a bit, he is scared about what that could mean for them. My heart about stopped in several spots and I just wanted to cuddle him, as well as Jonah, to protect both men.
I got giddy the further we got into the book and never wanted to put it down for a minute (which I had to for house work *Yuck*, but I sucked it up just to get my hands on this story again). I actually loved the side characters, Adrian, Seb, Vale and I can’t wait till they get books of their own.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
June 10, 2022
2.5 stars. I’ve been trying a few of this authors books and stumbled into this without reading the blurb or really taking in the cover so the whole premise was rather unexpected. I enjoyed that this was an established couple and the first half of the book was quite good. Jonah realising he wanted something more was different and the suspense was engaging. But then once Lars found out it was pretty anticlimatic and I found myself skimming. He was supportive which was lovely but also ..kind of boring. I would have liked some more of a reaction here from Lars. The actual puppy play aspect wasn’t my thing and I lost interest in it and the characters. I was actually kind of surprised it wasn’t more sexual in a way, the puppy play itself wasn’t what I imagined it would be. The ending was very sweet and fluffy and clearly sets up for book 2.
June 12, 2021
3.5 - I admit puppy play is not something I expected to find myself reading and not really my thing but this was a cute book. Surprisingly fluffy and not quite what I thought it would be. I do love the established relationship between the two and I really liked the premise of a new kink that Jonah wasn't sure Lars would accept. There actually ended up being surprisingly little drama and honestly that was my biggest issue - once the kink was out there wasn't that much to keep me super interested. If anything I became more interested in the secondary character, Adrian, then I was the two MC's in the last part of the book. I'll probably read the next one just because it's Adrian's book and I liked his character and am interested in his story.
August 5, 2021
this was so good! This book is about an established couple and one of them learns about a new kink that they want to explore but are afraid to tell their partner in fear of being kink-shamed. Maybe by saying it like that it sounds like the couple has communication issues, but they really dont, its more based on an offhand comment taken out of context because of anxiety. Basically Jonah and Lars see puppy play at a pride event and Jonah is captivated where Lars makes a comment about it being weird, so when Jonah discovers that he's a pup, he gets worried about if this will ruin their relationship. This is super cute and adorable and I'm such a sucker for best friends to lovers (even though its already established)
gay MC with anxiety
kink: d/s power exchange, puppy play
gay MC with anxiety
kink: d/s power exchange, puppy play
January 11, 2019
Lars feels that he has been in love with Jonah since they were put into the same playpen as babies. When Jonah starts acting strange Lars is afraid he’s losing him. Jonah knows that his life with Lars is all he’s every wanted until he realizes he wants something more. Can Jonah actually tell Lars that he wants to be a puppy, having Lars as his master seems so far out of his reach. They will have to trust each other to make Jonah’s wish come true.
Okay, first of all puppy play? I’ll admit I’ve never really read about it before. Never gave it much thought till I decided I needed to see what the hype was about. Secondly, did I expect to enjoy it? I wasn’t sure. But I’ve decided that puppy play is kinda hot.
Lars and Jonah were sweet. Their willingness to introduce something new to their relationship was a brave step. I know I’ve enjoyed a story when I kinda forget it’s a story.
So, puppy play? A definite yes.
Okay, first of all puppy play? I’ll admit I’ve never really read about it before. Never gave it much thought till I decided I needed to see what the hype was about. Secondly, did I expect to enjoy it? I wasn’t sure. But I’ve decided that puppy play is kinda hot.
Lars and Jonah were sweet. Their willingness to introduce something new to their relationship was a brave step. I know I’ve enjoyed a story when I kinda forget it’s a story.
So, puppy play? A definite yes.
March 4, 2021
ok i mean i'm not even particularly into reading about puppy play but the premise in this one was cute and i liked the pre-bdsm dynamic between the characters and the whole 'i've-got-a-dark-kinky-secret' trope - maybe overdone but i like it
build-up was good, story was good, just felt like it drug on a bit too long after what felt like the conclusion and that caused me to start skimming the last bit.
build-up was good, story was good, just felt like it drug on a bit too long after what felt like the conclusion and that caused me to start skimming the last bit.
January 31, 2019
I liked the book, although puppy kink is not something that does it for me. But I really liked how sweet this couple was and how in tune with each other. Their love was beautiful.
Free with Kindle Unlimited
Free with Kindle Unlimited
January 9, 2019
Puppy play, yeah baby !!! Review soon
January 14, 2019
This was just the sweetest puppy play book, I loved it! I really enjoy reading about the puppy play dynamic, and I love the care that transpires between a Master and his pup. What I loved most about this story was that Jonah and Lars have been together for 10 years and just begin to explore the puppy play together. The adoration these two men have for each other made their Master/Pup dynamic so sweet and sexy. I just loved Lars and Jonah’s HEA. I’m so thrilled to know there will be more from this new series and I can’t wait to read what happens with these characters next!
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