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Cirque Masters #3
Master's Flame
In the sensually charged world of Cirque du Monde, CEO Michel Lemaitre reigns as king of depravity. He’s a stringent, brutal Master who selects his slaves based on their ability to cope with strict handling and pain. He exerts rigid control over his chosen partners and they submit to him in all things—that is, until fiery Italian acrobat Valentina Sancia enters his life. Valentina’s known as La Vampa, the flame of Napoli, and her tempestuous personality and wild libido soar as high as her circus tricks. To his chagrin, she wants nothing more than to be his slave. Michel finds himself drawn to the red-headed firebrand even as he tries his hardest to resist her. It doesn’t help that the sensual beauty idolizes him and tempts him at every turn. He finally engages her in a one-month, no-holds-barred Master-slave relationship to prove their incompatibility. And that’s when the circus really begins. The two become wrapped up in bondage, cages, physical ordeals…and an emotionally fraught battle of wills. He’s never had a slave burn so bright, and Valentina’s heart is set on pleasing her Master, no matter the torment and trials she must endure. Is there such a thing as too much passion? Michel’s convinced there is, and he’s determined to tame a billowing love on the verge of blazing out of control. Publisher’s This erotic romance novel is approximately 79K words and contains sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find Anal play/intercourse, m/m/f/m menage, BDSM scenes, power exchange themes, and extreme control.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2014
17 people are currently reading
424 people want to read
About the author
Annabel Joseph
70 books2,217 followersAnnabel Joseph is a NYT and USA Today bestselling BDSM erotic romance author. She writes mainly contemporary romance, although she has been known to dabble in the medieval and Regency eras. She is recognized for writing emotionally intense BDSM storylines, and strives to create characters that seem real--even flawed--so readers are better able to relate to them.
Annabel also writes non-BDSM erotic romance under the name Molly Joseph. You can sign up to receive Annabel's newsletter here: http://wordpress.us7.list-manage.com/...
Some of Annabel's favorite authors are Laura Kinsale, Judith McNaught, Jo Beverley, Flannery O'Connor, Molly Weatherfield, and Anneke Jacob.
Annabel Joseph loves to hear from her readers at annabeljosephnovels(@)gmail.com.
Annabel also writes non-BDSM erotic romance under the name Molly Joseph. You can sign up to receive Annabel's newsletter here: http://wordpress.us7.list-manage.com/...
Some of Annabel's favorite authors are Laura Kinsale, Judith McNaught, Jo Beverley, Flannery O'Connor, Molly Weatherfield, and Anneke Jacob.
Annabel Joseph loves to hear from her readers at annabeljosephnovels(@)gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
September 24, 2016
2.5* not enough flame STARS!!
Save the best for last. Yeah, I'm really intrigued with Michel Lemaitre. He's the owner of Cirque du Monde and Le Citadel, BDSM dungeon. Many people warned about his hardcore sexuality. After all the drama in the previous book, Bound in Blue, Mr. Lemaitre faced new challenge with a woman that will turn his life upside down. Unfortunately, it didn't wow-ed me enough.
Valentina Sancia recruited from Italia because her amazing talent for new cirque by Cirque du Monde. But she has really uncontrollable attitude and no self-restraint. She did whatever she wants to 'annoyed' him. Michel Lemaitre has unhealthy interest with new employee and he distanced himself. But Valentina relentlessly pursue him non-stop and finally, they made a contract. One month in M/s relationship.
Wow... Valentina is the most wildest woman ever. An Italian woman with sassy mouth and high libido. I liked her before she became gooey all over Michel Lemaitre. She was intrigued with her boss for a long time. He didn't like other man she played with.
We all know Michel Lemaitre is a hardcore player. His M/s relationship scares me a bit. He also swing in both ways, male and female. I'm not a fan since the first but I'm curious for more. Valentina was a wild fire he managed to tame with M/s relationship. It was very intense and intimidating. It hardly turn me on. Michel Lemaitre true to his words as a cruel Master, sometimes he didn't do aftercare which is makes me cringe.
Mostly the story was about M/s relationship between Valentina and Michel. There are so much sex scenes and dirty depraved things Michel did to her. But nothing is against my hard limit. Everything was smooth until Valentina dropped the 'love' bomb and Michel didn't like it. He became an asshole Master. It takes time for Michele to accept her love because his awful past that hold him. I couldn't like Valentina anymore when she became hopeless romantic and stupid to stand for herself. It likes she losing her identity. She's also very forgivable person. Why don't make him suffer a bit?
Overall, I liked it at first but when there is no chemistry outside BDSM, I hardly enjoy it anymore. Their M/s relationship was mind-blown because he really pushed her and she doesn't mind. They're enjoying everything. Their journey was far from romance before the happy ending. Deeply emotional and quite mind-fucked.
Save the best for last. Yeah, I'm really intrigued with Michel Lemaitre. He's the owner of Cirque du Monde and Le Citadel, BDSM dungeon. Many people warned about his hardcore sexuality. After all the drama in the previous book, Bound in Blue, Mr. Lemaitre faced new challenge with a woman that will turn his life upside down. Unfortunately, it didn't wow-ed me enough.
Valentina Sancia recruited from Italia because her amazing talent for new cirque by Cirque du Monde. But she has really uncontrollable attitude and no self-restraint. She did whatever she wants to 'annoyed' him. Michel Lemaitre has unhealthy interest with new employee and he distanced himself. But Valentina relentlessly pursue him non-stop and finally, they made a contract. One month in M/s relationship.
Wow... Valentina is the most wildest woman ever. An Italian woman with sassy mouth and high libido. I liked her before she became gooey all over Michel Lemaitre. She was intrigued with her boss for a long time. He didn't like other man she played with.
The words whispered in his brain, and for the first time he admitted to himself that he wanted her. And it was terrible to want her, this hot-headed girl, because she would burn up both of them in a fire impossible to control.
We all know Michel Lemaitre is a hardcore player. His M/s relationship scares me a bit. He also swing in both ways, male and female. I'm not a fan since the first but I'm curious for more. Valentina was a wild fire he managed to tame with M/s relationship. It was very intense and intimidating. It hardly turn me on. Michel Lemaitre true to his words as a cruel Master, sometimes he didn't do aftercare which is makes me cringe.
More than anything on earth, she wanted Mr. Lemaitre for her Master, but he didn’t want her. She wanted to be his toy, his plaything, the canvas for all the colors of his power.
Mostly the story was about M/s relationship between Valentina and Michel. There are so much sex scenes and dirty depraved things Michel did to her. But nothing is against my hard limit. Everything was smooth until Valentina dropped the 'love' bomb and Michel didn't like it. He became an asshole Master. It takes time for Michele to accept her love because his awful past that hold him. I couldn't like Valentina anymore when she became hopeless romantic and stupid to stand for herself. It likes she losing her identity. She's also very forgivable person. Why don't make him suffer a bit?
Overall, I liked it at first but when there is no chemistry outside BDSM, I hardly enjoy it anymore. Their M/s relationship was mind-blown because he really pushed her and she doesn't mind. They're enjoying everything. Their journey was far from romance before the happy ending. Deeply emotional and quite mind-fucked.
January 12, 2023
I really liked the previous books in the series and it took me ages to get to this one. Sadly, it was as bad as I was afraid it would be.
Yes, there is a very hardcore BDSM with the complete lack of any romance (similar to the Rough Love - Torment Me - series) and with an emotional cripple and a self absorbed prick of a hero - but that's not what made my angry.
What made me angry was how fucking careless the hero was with the heroine, a neurodivergent artistic genius with lack of impulse control and a huge heart. She was fucking amazing.
And this pathetic idiot walked over her with his feet, stumping on anything that was good while hiding behind his oh so awful childhood.
This is what pisses me off every time I get to read about these tortured assholes: GET A FUCKING THERAPY, you fucking moron, you are unbearable in your selfpity.
What to expect: a lot of sadistic sex scenes bordering on abuse; almost no enjoyment for the heroine (probably interesting for those who is deeply into humiliation and slavery kink); a whole lot of anal (sooo much anal); a scene that practically (or basically) slided into a rape scenario; barely any grovel after a horrible thing the hero did; 5 seconds reflection on heroine's trauma...
What not to expect: any romance.
The 5 pages where the hero proclaimed his undying love at the end weren't enough to wash away everything that happened before. And fucking hell, the heroine was indeed too forgiving, it was kinda disgusting.
There are other books by this author which have hardcore BDSM and hardcore sadists but have also a lot of romance. It was not the case here.
Yes, there is a very hardcore BDSM with the complete lack of any romance (similar to the Rough Love - Torment Me - series) and with an emotional cripple and a self absorbed prick of a hero - but that's not what made my angry.
What made me angry was how fucking careless the hero was with the heroine, a neurodivergent artistic genius with lack of impulse control and a huge heart. She was fucking amazing.
And this pathetic idiot walked over her with his feet, stumping on anything that was good while hiding behind his oh so awful childhood.
This is what pisses me off every time I get to read about these tortured assholes: GET A FUCKING THERAPY, you fucking moron, you are unbearable in your selfpity.
What to expect: a lot of sadistic sex scenes bordering on abuse; almost no enjoyment for the heroine (probably interesting for those who is deeply into humiliation and slavery kink); a whole lot of anal (sooo much anal); a scene that practically (or basically) slided into a rape scenario; barely any grovel after a horrible thing the hero did; 5 seconds reflection on heroine's trauma...
What not to expect: any romance.
The 5 pages where the hero proclaimed his undying love at the end weren't enough to wash away everything that happened before. And fucking hell, the heroine was indeed too forgiving, it was kinda disgusting.
There are other books by this author which have hardcore BDSM and hardcore sadists but have also a lot of romance. It was not the case here.
January 11, 2016
Michael he really had my emotions all jumbled up .
He is a major sadist dominant . He is really commanding and quite hot really ... But I really didn't like his character much . I thought he was to into himself , I am into ass*** Heroes but he was just to much for me .
Valentina she was a young spirited girl , loves to experiment with everything and isn't scared to do it. When she sees Michael how dominant he is she wants a taste of that dominance . I really wasn't into the characters , for me they were just to into there sexual needs and they didn't have much affection towards each other .
The book itself is entertaining , hot as hell , and very open to everything , very explicit in every way you could think of . Like I said for me am all into the dominant sadist but this one just overwhelm me a bit .
So although i wasn't really into it it was quite entertaining and sexy to read .
I give it 4 am not really sure what to think stars
He is a major sadist dominant . He is really commanding and quite hot really ... But I really didn't like his character much . I thought he was to into himself , I am into ass*** Heroes but he was just to much for me .
Valentina she was a young spirited girl , loves to experiment with everything and isn't scared to do it. When she sees Michael how dominant he is she wants a taste of that dominance . I really wasn't into the characters , for me they were just to into there sexual needs and they didn't have much affection towards each other .
The book itself is entertaining , hot as hell , and very open to everything , very explicit in every way you could think of . Like I said for me am all into the dominant sadist but this one just overwhelm me a bit .
So although i wasn't really into it it was quite entertaining and sexy to read .
I give it 4 am not really sure what to think stars
October 29, 2014
Oui, c'est magnifique - 4.5 stars
Master’s Flame is the third book in Annabel Joseph’s Cirque Masters series. It works perfectly well as a standalone story and it’s not necessary to have read the first two books although it does contain spoilers for those stories.
It’s actually been a while since I’ve read an Annabel Joseph book and I was really excited to read this one. No one does soul-searching, tortuous BDSM romance like her and her doms and submissives always make for a challenging and captivating read and that’s exactly what we get in Master’s Flame.
We’re back in the fabulously kinky and depraved world of Cirque du Monde and the CEO himself, Michel LeMaitre has recruited talented Italian acrobat Valentina Sancia. Valentina is hot-headed, impetuous and overtly sexual and is causing havoc in his circus, burning bright like a fire-cracker and seducing his artists. Valentina is beautiful, reckless and totally uninhibited and she has set her sights firmly on submitting to Monsieur LeMaitre, wanting nothing more than to be his slave.
LeMaitre, although drawn to Valentina, despises the thought of a permanent slave and, at first, refuses to have anything to do with her. I absolutely adored this intensely dominant man – yes, he’s a bit of a fuck up but the more of an asshole your hero is the further he has to fall and the more satisfying that redemption will be in the end and that’s what was so satisfying about this book.
Michel LeMaitre is an omnisexual, commanding presence in the Cirque, a feared and respected sadist known for taking both male and female slaves and pushing them to their limits and beyond. His stringent brand of mastery, the way he is so controlled and controlling really had me melting into a puddle at his feet. Valentina, little hellion that he is, pushes him too far and he decides that he will take her on as a slave for one month contract in an attempt to teach her some control and to calm her wayward and impulsive ways which is exactly what she wants.
Valentina – be careful what you wish for!
What follows is an awesome display of dominance and submission as Valentina’s Master pushes her way beyond what she thought was possible. He’s cruel and demanding and there were times that I hated him for what he was doing right along with Valentina. She thought she would relish the thought of being overpowered but she had no idea what she was letting herself in for and her Masters is enjoying this exacting challenge and she is desperately trying to prove that she’s not just a nymphomaniac with poor impulse control!
I enjoyed this so much. Annabel Joseph does a fantastic job of seamlessly intertwining the exotic world of the cirque and the kinky, depraved world of LeMaitre’s Citadel for your perving pleasure. Master’s Flame is full of hedonistic pleasure, a battle of wills between the main two characters and tortuous love story that will have you screaming in frustration at the hard-headed, cold hearted man at the centre of it all. But, as I said earlier, the more of a fuckwit your hero is, the further he has to fall and, when he finally opens his eyes and unlocks that cold dead heart, it’s a thing of beauty.
I found myself completely lost in the story as I devoured it – I came to adore Valentina and ached along with her when LeMaitre hurt her both physically and emotionally and he really does hurt her. It’s plain to see just how perfect these two are for each other and Valentina can see this but LeMaitre is the one that coldly refuses to accept that he could love his flame-haired beauty, his mignonne, his impulsive bundle of trouble and he’s also got some hard lessons to learn over the course of the story. It’s a fantastically kinky and angsty love story, full of erotic hedonism and near perfect BDSM romance.
4.5 stars
“Safewords?” He gave a tight smile. “There is nothing safe about words. Something to remember if you ever give your body over to a dominant’s will.”
“I don’t care about being safe.” Her fingers twisted together in the intensity of her confession. “I want pain and surrender. I want to be subdued, pushed to my limits. Forced to obey.”
“Do you?” How he wished to reach out and touch her. You will harm this one, his conscience whispered. If she does not destroy you first.
Master’s Flame is the third book in Annabel Joseph’s Cirque Masters series. It works perfectly well as a standalone story and it’s not necessary to have read the first two books although it does contain spoilers for those stories.
It’s actually been a while since I’ve read an Annabel Joseph book and I was really excited to read this one. No one does soul-searching, tortuous BDSM romance like her and her doms and submissives always make for a challenging and captivating read and that’s exactly what we get in Master’s Flame.
We’re back in the fabulously kinky and depraved world of Cirque du Monde and the CEO himself, Michel LeMaitre has recruited talented Italian acrobat Valentina Sancia. Valentina is hot-headed, impetuous and overtly sexual and is causing havoc in his circus, burning bright like a fire-cracker and seducing his artists. Valentina is beautiful, reckless and totally uninhibited and she has set her sights firmly on submitting to Monsieur LeMaitre, wanting nothing more than to be his slave.
LeMaitre, although drawn to Valentina, despises the thought of a permanent slave and, at first, refuses to have anything to do with her. I absolutely adored this intensely dominant man – yes, he’s a bit of a fuck up but the more of an asshole your hero is the further he has to fall and the more satisfying that redemption will be in the end and that’s what was so satisfying about this book.
Michel LeMaitre is an omnisexual, commanding presence in the Cirque, a feared and respected sadist known for taking both male and female slaves and pushing them to their limits and beyond. His stringent brand of mastery, the way he is so controlled and controlling really had me melting into a puddle at his feet. Valentina, little hellion that he is, pushes him too far and he decides that he will take her on as a slave for one month contract in an attempt to teach her some control and to calm her wayward and impulsive ways which is exactly what she wants.
Valentina – be careful what you wish for!
You will not be my play slave. You will not be my lover, girlfriend, or funslut. You’ll be my real slave. You’ll do what I say, whatever I say. You’ll put aside any wants, needs, desires, and uncomfortable feelings that get in the way of me getting what I want. You’ll eat what I say, you’ll sleep where I say, you’ll wear what I say, and you’ll submit to every single act I choose to visit upon your body, whether it horrifies you or not. I’ll fuck you when I want, I’ll beat you when I want, and I’ll ignore you when I want. I’ll make you wait for my company until you’re in agony, and then I’ll ignore you some more just because it makes me hard to play with your emotions. I’ll do everything in my power to fuck you up because that’s what brings me pleasure. If you want to belong to me, Valentina, that’s what it entails.
What follows is an awesome display of dominance and submission as Valentina’s Master pushes her way beyond what she thought was possible. He’s cruel and demanding and there were times that I hated him for what he was doing right along with Valentina. She thought she would relish the thought of being overpowered but she had no idea what she was letting herself in for and her Masters is enjoying this exacting challenge and she is desperately trying to prove that she’s not just a nymphomaniac with poor impulse control!
I enjoyed this so much. Annabel Joseph does a fantastic job of seamlessly intertwining the exotic world of the cirque and the kinky, depraved world of LeMaitre’s Citadel for your perving pleasure. Master’s Flame is full of hedonistic pleasure, a battle of wills between the main two characters and tortuous love story that will have you screaming in frustration at the hard-headed, cold hearted man at the centre of it all. But, as I said earlier, the more of a fuckwit your hero is, the further he has to fall and, when he finally opens his eyes and unlocks that cold dead heart, it’s a thing of beauty.
I found myself completely lost in the story as I devoured it – I came to adore Valentina and ached along with her when LeMaitre hurt her both physically and emotionally and he really does hurt her. It’s plain to see just how perfect these two are for each other and Valentina can see this but LeMaitre is the one that coldly refuses to accept that he could love his flame-haired beauty, his mignonne, his impulsive bundle of trouble and he’s also got some hard lessons to learn over the course of the story. It’s a fantastically kinky and angsty love story, full of erotic hedonism and near perfect BDSM romance.
4.5 stars
July 6, 2015
1st read September 09 to 10, 2014
Those 2 are insane! I swear, I was waiting for the moment when either of them will do something stupid... Though Michel won on that account!
2nd read July 6, 2015
Buddy read with Maru
Those 2 are insane! I swear, I was waiting for the moment when either of them will do something stupid... Though Michel won on that account!
2nd read July 6, 2015
Buddy read with Maru
May 17, 2015
One word for this book: Brutal
It's a one sided romance. Or is it?
Warning: hard core BDSM
It's a one sided romance. Or is it?
Warning: hard core BDSM
December 21, 2014
3.5 stars. Wild and crazy ride. I can't say I've read a romance quite like this one before. Valentina's impulsivity and promiscuity were definitely something new. And Michel's cruel and horrendous actions were unforgivable. That last stunt - WTF???
I pulled an all-nighter reading but my problem with the book came at the end with Valentina's willingness to forgive and forget so easily - WAY TOO EASILY. Michel really needed to do some serious groveling. For that reason, I downgrade from a 4 to a 3.5.
I pulled an all-nighter reading but my problem with the book came at the end with Valentina's willingness to forgive and forget so easily - WAY TOO EASILY. Michel really needed to do some serious groveling. For that reason, I downgrade from a 4 to a 3.5.
February 11, 2016
First 50 % of the book: 4 stars
Last 50 % of the book: 2 stars.
It didn't live up to the greatness of the first half of the book. It lost itself in love and romance. I'm not a love and romance kind of a person. For me it was boring. But the first half is definitely worth reading.
Last 50 % of the book: 2 stars.
It didn't live up to the greatness of the first half of the book. It lost itself in love and romance. I'm not a love and romance kind of a person. For me it was boring. But the first half is definitely worth reading.
May 16, 2014
Nina's Review:
Everything about you suits my tastes, little Vampa. The truth is, you set me on fire, which is why it cannot be.
As far as my life goes in this reader/blogger world, nothing gives me greater pleasure than reading an amazing book and being able to talk about it with other people. Today is a day that brings me great joy, for I get to talk about Master’s Flame….book 3 in the Cirque Masters series by Annabel Joseph. This amazing, couldn’t put down, totally sucked me in book, perfectly named, Master’s Flame.
“Whatever you want from me, sir, I am yours.”
When I say I am a fan of Annabel Josephs, I mean I am a BIG fan. I have read pretty much all of Annabel’s books, and in my opinion this book is her best to date. I know you are probably thinking that I am still on the Master’s Flame high, and part of that is true. But the other part is that she crushed all my expectations and superseded anything I could have imagined. Simply put, Master’s Flame is a 5 star read and her characters in this book are superbly written.
Do not imagine her whimpering at your feet.
We have gotten to know Michel ‘ass fucker extraordinaire’ Lemaitre over the past two books – Cirque de Minuit and Bound in Blue. He is arrogant, he is powerful and he is controlling. He has not bent his persona in the past two books, so going into his love story, I was waiting for her to write him as becoming a softy. But that is not what we get at all. Lemaitre stayed true to his character….the sadist, the control freak, the badass…never changing and for that I am grateful.
“I think you are very good at being cruel.”
Valentina Sancia is the newest recruit to the Cirque. With her fiery red hair and even more fiery personality, she sets her sights on Lemaitre and does not accept his rejection well. In a nutshell, she does not go down without a fight. I think of all the heroines Annabel has written, Valentina is my most favorite. She is sassy, uninhibited and unafraid and the havoc she reeks on the other cirque members is so fun to read. She goes after what she wants in the most honest of ways….she begs. She begs Lemaitre because he is who she wants and nothing less will suffice. But in her quest to win his heart, will she lose herself? Will Lemaitre take her slavedom to another level and squash the fire? Don’t look for that answer from me….you must read the book to see.
There was a line around her Master’s heart and she wasn’t allowed to cross it.
As with every one of Annabel’s books, you get a healthy dose of BDSM at its purest form. The scenes are rough and there are times your heart breaks for Valentina, but always remember, this was what she signed on for….this is what she begged for….this is what she wants most…to be Lemaitre’s slave girl. Annabel always gives us such vivid pictures in her books, yet in Lemaitre’s house, with his white walls and subdued atmosphere, it is here we see the lack of color the most vibrant of all. Annabel’s descriptions and depictions of Valentina and her flaming red hair flitting through the confines of his home are so real to me that I feel like I am there. Valentina has a pension for whimsical art and I can close my eyes and see her creations, there in the corner in all its mayhem.
She wanted to be his toy, his plaything, the canvas for all the colors of his power.
For me, Lemaitre is my favorite AJ man…yes I feel as if I have cheated on Theo and Rubio, but I knew going into this book Lemaitre held my heart. Annabel gave me enough freaking teasers on social media while writing this book, that I knew the ‘ass fucker extraordinaire’ would be the end of me…..and he was. I think the writing was always on the wall and it was just inevitable that I too belonged to him and would fall for Lemaitre…hard.
“My love should go to someone who returns it, and that someone obviously isn’t you.”
Nothing makes me happier than to see a friend accomplish a goal. Annabel, you are one of the best within your genre. Your passion for the arts and for the BDSM lifestyle is evident on each of your pages. You continuously improve your craft and this book is nothing less than brilliant. Thank you for not changing Lemaitre….thank you for giving us Valentina and her spirit….and thank you most for continuing to write books that captivate our minds and feed our souls. You my friend, are simply amazing.
You are the fire of my days.
Everything about you suits my tastes, little Vampa. The truth is, you set me on fire, which is why it cannot be.
As far as my life goes in this reader/blogger world, nothing gives me greater pleasure than reading an amazing book and being able to talk about it with other people. Today is a day that brings me great joy, for I get to talk about Master’s Flame….book 3 in the Cirque Masters series by Annabel Joseph. This amazing, couldn’t put down, totally sucked me in book, perfectly named, Master’s Flame.
“Whatever you want from me, sir, I am yours.”
When I say I am a fan of Annabel Josephs, I mean I am a BIG fan. I have read pretty much all of Annabel’s books, and in my opinion this book is her best to date. I know you are probably thinking that I am still on the Master’s Flame high, and part of that is true. But the other part is that she crushed all my expectations and superseded anything I could have imagined. Simply put, Master’s Flame is a 5 star read and her characters in this book are superbly written.
Do not imagine her whimpering at your feet.
We have gotten to know Michel ‘ass fucker extraordinaire’ Lemaitre over the past two books – Cirque de Minuit and Bound in Blue. He is arrogant, he is powerful and he is controlling. He has not bent his persona in the past two books, so going into his love story, I was waiting for her to write him as becoming a softy. But that is not what we get at all. Lemaitre stayed true to his character….the sadist, the control freak, the badass…never changing and for that I am grateful.
“I think you are very good at being cruel.”
Valentina Sancia is the newest recruit to the Cirque. With her fiery red hair and even more fiery personality, she sets her sights on Lemaitre and does not accept his rejection well. In a nutshell, she does not go down without a fight. I think of all the heroines Annabel has written, Valentina is my most favorite. She is sassy, uninhibited and unafraid and the havoc she reeks on the other cirque members is so fun to read. She goes after what she wants in the most honest of ways….she begs. She begs Lemaitre because he is who she wants and nothing less will suffice. But in her quest to win his heart, will she lose herself? Will Lemaitre take her slavedom to another level and squash the fire? Don’t look for that answer from me….you must read the book to see.
There was a line around her Master’s heart and she wasn’t allowed to cross it.
As with every one of Annabel’s books, you get a healthy dose of BDSM at its purest form. The scenes are rough and there are times your heart breaks for Valentina, but always remember, this was what she signed on for….this is what she begged for….this is what she wants most…to be Lemaitre’s slave girl. Annabel always gives us such vivid pictures in her books, yet in Lemaitre’s house, with his white walls and subdued atmosphere, it is here we see the lack of color the most vibrant of all. Annabel’s descriptions and depictions of Valentina and her flaming red hair flitting through the confines of his home are so real to me that I feel like I am there. Valentina has a pension for whimsical art and I can close my eyes and see her creations, there in the corner in all its mayhem.
She wanted to be his toy, his plaything, the canvas for all the colors of his power.
For me, Lemaitre is my favorite AJ man…yes I feel as if I have cheated on Theo and Rubio, but I knew going into this book Lemaitre held my heart. Annabel gave me enough freaking teasers on social media while writing this book, that I knew the ‘ass fucker extraordinaire’ would be the end of me…..and he was. I think the writing was always on the wall and it was just inevitable that I too belonged to him and would fall for Lemaitre…hard.
“My love should go to someone who returns it, and that someone obviously isn’t you.”
Nothing makes me happier than to see a friend accomplish a goal. Annabel, you are one of the best within your genre. Your passion for the arts and for the BDSM lifestyle is evident on each of your pages. You continuously improve your craft and this book is nothing less than brilliant. Thank you for not changing Lemaitre….thank you for giving us Valentina and her spirit….and thank you most for continuing to write books that captivate our minds and feed our souls. You my friend, are simply amazing.
You are the fire of my days.
February 19, 2015
Marginally better than the second book in the series, but much worse than the first. If only you have enough of the kind of sex the guy likes he'll come to love you? Dumb premise and takes all the sexy out of the sex. As I keep saying, I'm sure this is somebody's kink, but it's not mine. Also can I say, unrealistic anal sex mechanics? This is starting to sound like a video game review. But really. Really.
I've decided reading sumt is making me feel sad after I finished this book, so I'm done with the genre for a while. At least any kind of hetero shit.
I've decided reading sumt is making me feel sad after I finished this book, so I'm done with the genre for a while. At least any kind of hetero shit.
November 13, 2014
I have now read 4 Annabel Joseph books and this was my favorite so far. Truly I can't imagine a better one. Like some reviews said, I wasn't sure about a story-line that involved the circus. However, it worked great as a backdrop to the story. This is a love story with a huge dom/sub theme. What I liked most about this book is it made you feel. I hate books that make you so distant to the characters that you feel like you are reading the book through a far away telescope. Master's Flame is hot and you are right there with the characters through the good, the bad and the ugly.
Yes, this was a love story, but it was so much more. The dom/sub theme was extremely well done and may I say HOT? Annabel's writing made me feel like I was being held in the master's cage right along with our little h. The tpe exchange really worked in this book. I don't want to give away the story so let me just say if you like a love story with highs and lows, some great bdsm scenes, written with great emotion, then get this book and enjoy! (FYI this book stands alone although it is a part of a series.)
Yes, this was a love story, but it was so much more. The dom/sub theme was extremely well done and may I say HOT? Annabel's writing made me feel like I was being held in the master's cage right along with our little h. The tpe exchange really worked in this book. I don't want to give away the story so let me just say if you like a love story with highs and lows, some great bdsm scenes, written with great emotion, then get this book and enjoy! (FYI this book stands alone although it is a part of a series.)
January 2, 2016
Wow!!! Michel the Master!!! Wasn't sure this was really my cup of tea, Valentina was a complete woman whore!! She was sexually aggressive and pretty much went through the whole circus makes yet she wanted the Master himself and literally stopped at nothing to get him to notice her!!!
I didn't warn to her at all but I don't think I was meant to. She definitely didn't fit in the usual female mould!!
Michel wasn't a bit loving and for me the constant anal play was too much.
Towards the end I felt his treatment of her at Le Citadel was way past the point of return. His instructions/actions rendered me speechless. I hated him and felt she became very weak to put up with it.
She ended up as a bit of a doormat or should I say cage whore?
I didn't warn to her at all but I don't think I was meant to. She definitely didn't fit in the usual female mould!!
Michel wasn't a bit loving and for me the constant anal play was too much.
Towards the end I felt his treatment of her at Le Citadel was way past the point of return. His instructions/actions rendered me speechless. I hated him and felt she became very weak to put up with it.
She ended up as a bit of a doormat or should I say cage whore?
May 15, 2014
I just couldn't connect with this one
I love A.J.'s books. I really do. But this one just didn't do it for me. The story itself was good but what ruined it for me was Valentina. From the start I just found her character so unbelievably childish and beyond needy. It made her so annoying and I just wanted her to pack up and go back home.
I love A.J.'s books. I really do. But this one just didn't do it for me. The story itself was good but what ruined it for me was Valentina. From the start I just found her character so unbelievably childish and beyond needy. It made her so annoying and I just wanted her to pack up and go back home.
June 24, 2014
Valentina is sure she wants what Michel Lemaitre can do for her. Michel in unapologetic about his sexual preferences and is sure that Valentina is not for him. He challenges her to 30 days of anything goes. Instead of losing interest Michel wants Valentina more than ever. But can their master/slave relationship survive the intensity Michel requires?
January 13, 2015
I have hesitated reviewing this because I love all of the other books by this author. I wish I had never read this one. Left me feeling like what has been seen can not be unseen. One particular scene in this book just was way too much for me. The Master could have died in the flames after that and I may have liked the book.
March 10, 2015
You know that romance trope where the guy spends most of the book acting like an asshole but then whips out the Love word at the end, and suddenly it's all riding into the sunset with puppies and unicorns?
Yea well, combine that with some inexplicable dub-con instigated by the guy onto the girl right before the 'I-love-yous', and you have this book.
Yea well, combine that with some inexplicable dub-con instigated by the guy onto the girl right before the 'I-love-yous', and you have this book.
May 21, 2016
So, I didn't think any of these books were brilliant aside from the very fun setting and some distinct characters, but I always try to read three by an author before I make up my mind. This one though? Oh hell no. I only need to make one comment: . I'm clearly done with this author.
June 13, 2014
I need more stars. How are there not more stars.
March 5, 2021
A Good Story
First off, again referring to Sara as exotic. Then there was the sl*t shaming Valentina. I found myself getting upset every time it happened.
Other than those things, I enjoyed seeing Valentina and Michel coming together and how they grew throughout the story.
First off, again referring to Sara as exotic. Then there was the sl*t shaming Valentina. I found myself getting upset every time it happened.
Other than those things, I enjoyed seeing Valentina and Michel coming together and how they grew throughout the story.
October 5, 2020
Michel was such a little shit this entire book. He didn’t deserve Valentina at all. And these two being monogamous doesn’t make sense to me.
June 11, 2025
2,5 stars
March 18, 2017
Love this circus series. Somewhat dark bdsm. Very hot. Emotional. You will cry.
August 10, 2016
I really enjoyed this book, as I have all of Annabel Joseph's work. It's interesting to me that she can write so compellingly about a lifestyle I cannot relate to, but it's the authenticity of the world and her characters' commitment to the lifestyle that make it ring so true. Unlike so many BDSM romances, I really feel like these people grow from their stories, and that the BDSM elements play as much a part in the character development as they do in the sex and plot. I've read the first two books in this series (and recommend reading them first, as there's a surprise in book two that will be spoiled if you start with book three, plus they're really hot), and was really looking forward to this one.
Michel Lemaitre runs the Cirque du Monde (a Cirque du Soleil-like circus) and owns The Citadel, a well-known fetish club. He's been an omnipresent figure in the other books and I enjoyed this look at his inner world. I felt like he was a stronger character than Valentina, the heroine of the story, not just because he was a Dom, but because it was easier to relate to his need for control than her desperate need to be reined in. This is a personal preference when reading this kind of story, as I prefer a heroine that is eased in/talked into this world than one who instantly wants to be submissive as Valentina does.
The story starts slow and builds, and I enjoyed Lemaitre's emotional struggles even more than Valentina's physical struggles. Annabel Joseph isn't afraid to go *there* in her writing, and I had to peel my eyebrows off the ceiling after several scenes ("scene" in terms of both story and BDSM play). (NB: If you are opposed to reading about anal sex, avoid this one. If you're into it, buy this immediately.) Joseph writes about things I'd run screaming from myself, but really enjoy reading about other people doing. (Blush.)
The literal and figurative exploration of how Valentina injects colour into Lemaitre's sterile world was quite lovely, as was Lemaitre's struggle to figure out how to control Valentina's body without destroying her soul. The fact that he was so conscious of his power and the peril of abusing it was reassuring, particularly given Valentina's frantic devotion. Having met Lemaitre in the earlier books, I couldn't picture a woman that would keep a man with such an extreme sexual appetite both satisfied and challenged, but by the end of this one, I knew he'd met his match.
A series well worth picking up.
Michel Lemaitre runs the Cirque du Monde (a Cirque du Soleil-like circus) and owns The Citadel, a well-known fetish club. He's been an omnipresent figure in the other books and I enjoyed this look at his inner world. I felt like he was a stronger character than Valentina, the heroine of the story, not just because he was a Dom, but because it was easier to relate to his need for control than her desperate need to be reined in. This is a personal preference when reading this kind of story, as I prefer a heroine that is eased in/talked into this world than one who instantly wants to be submissive as Valentina does.
The story starts slow and builds, and I enjoyed Lemaitre's emotional struggles even more than Valentina's physical struggles. Annabel Joseph isn't afraid to go *there* in her writing, and I had to peel my eyebrows off the ceiling after several scenes ("scene" in terms of both story and BDSM play). (NB: If you are opposed to reading about anal sex, avoid this one. If you're into it, buy this immediately.) Joseph writes about things I'd run screaming from myself, but really enjoy reading about other people doing. (Blush.)
The literal and figurative exploration of how Valentina injects colour into Lemaitre's sterile world was quite lovely, as was Lemaitre's struggle to figure out how to control Valentina's body without destroying her soul. The fact that he was so conscious of his power and the peril of abusing it was reassuring, particularly given Valentina's frantic devotion. Having met Lemaitre in the earlier books, I couldn't picture a woman that would keep a man with such an extreme sexual appetite both satisfied and challenged, but by the end of this one, I knew he'd met his match.
A series well worth picking up.
July 19, 2014
I’ve been swooning and drooling over Lemaitre forever. Like, since I read Cirque de Minuit and that scene where he bent Kelsey over his desk for a week’s worth of sodomizing lessons. The number of times I have diddled to that scene is pretty much countless at this point.
And now there’s a whole book of Lemaitre! Well, of course, there’s Valentina, too, and she’s a character that I have come to love. She’s just so open and loving and full of life and adventure. While, in contrast, Lemaitre is all about discipline and order and control, and, of course, sodomy. They are the epitome of the phrase "opposites attract." Opposites they may be, but I loved them both, maybe not equally. Possibly, I loved Lemaitre a little more and was a little bit jealous of Valentina, but nonetheless, the story captured me and had me holding my breath to see how they were going to work out their differences.
This is a story I would highly recommend to hardcore BDSM readers who enjoy the arts (Le Cirque anyone?), the lifestyle, lots of anal, heroines who keep their heroes on their toes, and heroes who keep their heroines on their knees…or on their backs…or really in any position that gives them easy access.
And in case y’all are interested, check out to whom this book is dedicated (hint: ME!!!). So super double yay! You should read it just because of that.
And now there’s a whole book of Lemaitre! Well, of course, there’s Valentina, too, and she’s a character that I have come to love. She’s just so open and loving and full of life and adventure. While, in contrast, Lemaitre is all about discipline and order and control, and, of course, sodomy. They are the epitome of the phrase "opposites attract." Opposites they may be, but I loved them both, maybe not equally. Possibly, I loved Lemaitre a little more and was a little bit jealous of Valentina, but nonetheless, the story captured me and had me holding my breath to see how they were going to work out their differences.
This is a story I would highly recommend to hardcore BDSM readers who enjoy the arts (Le Cirque anyone?), the lifestyle, lots of anal, heroines who keep their heroes on their toes, and heroes who keep their heroines on their knees…or on their backs…or really in any position that gives them easy access.
And in case y’all are interested, check out to whom this book is dedicated (hint: ME!!!). So super double yay! You should read it just because of that.
June 23, 2014
So amazing, so good, such an emotional upheaval - LOVED IT! I almost want to create a new shelf here for most ...... well this is why I read and don't write, words fail me. Seriously, I couldn't wait to get up this morning and tell everyone about this book!
Like most of the authours books, this is not for the faint of heart, and if you've read any of the preceding three books, you know Lemaitre is very exacting. You don't need to read the previous books to read this one, but you'll want to it you haven't.
While I expected, and got, the intense scenes in the book. I also expected some crazy emotional scenes, but wow, the scenes were secondary to the deep and moving turmoil in the book. The scene with the classical music took on a variety and wide range of intense feelings that leave you drained at the end. It was the second time I grabbed the tissues, and I just kept them close, thank goodness, because it was a seven hanky book
Not all sad, not all made and not all happy tears, but once you were hooked, these two characters drug you into every crazy thought and feeling they had. It was gripping, it was wild and it was....... amazing!
Like most of the authours books, this is not for the faint of heart, and if you've read any of the preceding three books, you know Lemaitre is very exacting. You don't need to read the previous books to read this one, but you'll want to it you haven't.
While I expected, and got, the intense scenes in the book. I also expected some crazy emotional scenes, but wow, the scenes were secondary to the deep and moving turmoil in the book. The scene with the classical music took on a variety and wide range of intense feelings that leave you drained at the end. It was the second time I grabbed the tissues, and I just kept them close, thank goodness, because it was a seven hanky book
Not all sad, not all made and not all happy tears, but once you were hooked, these two characters drug you into every crazy thought and feeling they had. It was gripping, it was wild and it was....... amazing!
January 12, 2017
Ughhhhh
I wanted to love this. I love Michel Lemaitre. But good God I had a hard time liking Valentina. The immaturity was astounding. I swear she has classic Bipolar disorder. The noose scene was when I found myself absolutely sick of her. The writing was amazing as always. I'm not sure why the last BDSM scene at the club was so traumatic. It's what she signed up for. I get his reasoning for doing it was wrong but out of all the perverted things they do there, that is what upsets everyone? The whole reaction to that confused me. The redeeming qualities of Valentina are that she's talented and very confident in her act and abilities. She's artistic.
Valentina didn't enter their relationship with the right intentions. She is as much to blame for her pain as he is. I didn't find her to be a victim of anything else but her own behavior and choices. She needed to be humbled just as Michel did but he at least was respectful and somewhat well mannered. If anything I'm glad she's caged or collared and can stop wreaking havoc but in her own life.
I wanted to love this. I love Michel Lemaitre. But good God I had a hard time liking Valentina. The immaturity was astounding. I swear she has classic Bipolar disorder. The noose scene was when I found myself absolutely sick of her. The writing was amazing as always. I'm not sure why the last BDSM scene at the club was so traumatic. It's what she signed up for. I get his reasoning for doing it was wrong but out of all the perverted things they do there, that is what upsets everyone? The whole reaction to that confused me. The redeeming qualities of Valentina are that she's talented and very confident in her act and abilities. She's artistic.
Valentina didn't enter their relationship with the right intentions. She is as much to blame for her pain as he is. I didn't find her to be a victim of anything else but her own behavior and choices. She needed to be humbled just as Michel did but he at least was respectful and somewhat well mannered. If anything I'm glad she's caged or collared and can stop wreaking havoc but in her own life.
July 30, 2015
Holy hell that was intense!!! Wow just wow! I love this book! Michel was so in depth unlike other Doms I have read about and Valentina is a....well I can't put it into words. Their no emotions, but everything the Master wants goes relationship was something else. Michel is so damn stupid. Stupid for her, stupid for himself, stupid with his thoughts and actions. Valentina is definitely strong and amazing for forgiving him for doing something reckless and unforgivable in my book. The only thing I didn't like was the way Michel mixed business and pleasure. He expected her to perform perfectly, but wasn't giving her the means to do so. The chewings from Jason was hilarious. Thank Gods he was there to put some common sense back to into Michel. This is definitely at the top of my naughty reading list for the days I just need a kick start.
June 4, 2014
Perfect ending for this trilogy.
I know this read isn't for everyone but I loved the story between Michael and Valentina.
Michael was a demanding Master who took what he wanted from Valentina. I loved his witty banter with her. he was so frustrated at times with her. I loved watching him loose control.
The control he lost was found in Valentina. I loved the way she grew and changed. I loved her strength and quirks. She turned Michael's world upside down. Was able to bring color into his life.
Great ending to the Cirque Master's.
I know this read isn't for everyone but I loved the story between Michael and Valentina.
Michael was a demanding Master who took what he wanted from Valentina. I loved his witty banter with her. he was so frustrated at times with her. I loved watching him loose control.
The control he lost was found in Valentina. I loved the way she grew and changed. I loved her strength and quirks. She turned Michael's world upside down. Was able to bring color into his life.
Great ending to the Cirque Master's.
July 13, 2014
I'm a big fan of Annabel Joseph and this book was great, I loved Valentina's character and I hated Mr. Le maitre sometimes, but loved him most of the times. Some of the scenes are heart breakers, I felt as If I was there with them. I got frustrated sometimes by Mr. Le maitre actions, but Love always wins and of course that makes me happy.
The story is great and I liked seeing Jason and Sara again.
I would recommend this book to everyone who loves erotica, bdsm, romantic books.
Can't wait for her next book, many thanks for giving us this great stories.
The story is great and I liked seeing Jason and Sara again.
I would recommend this book to everyone who loves erotica, bdsm, romantic books.
Can't wait for her next book, many thanks for giving us this great stories.
June 8, 2014
Another great read from Annabel Joseph
This is the third book in the Cirque Series, and it does not disappoint. This story is about the enigmatic & powerful owner of Cirque Du Monde & his struggle not to fall for his latest find "La Vampa" Once again Ms Joseph writes complex characters, intense drama peppered with humor to lighten the darkest moments. This book is a must for fans of the BDSM romances.
This is the third book in the Cirque Series, and it does not disappoint. This story is about the enigmatic & powerful owner of Cirque Du Monde & his struggle not to fall for his latest find "La Vampa" Once again Ms Joseph writes complex characters, intense drama peppered with humor to lighten the darkest moments. This book is a must for fans of the BDSM romances.
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