Lost Boy

Les's Bar #5

by Jodi Payne, B.A. Tortuga

Lost Boy is an opposites attract, smaller top, size difference romance featuring a strong but gentle veterinarian and a police dog trainer with a fiery temper.

Veterinarian Leo Aetos adores animals, has a great apartment in Brooklyn, and even has a favorite bar. The only thing he doesn’t have is someone to share it all with. Finding that man is easier said than done because he’s searching for a partner with specific interests. He needs a man who steps out of the stereotype and that's tall order. Much like he is, at well over six feet.

Police dog-trainer Chris Kinney figures there’s no way he’d be anything close to what Leo wants. His last relationship failed miserably and he is sure it was his own fault. He just couldn’t be the kind of man his ex needed him to be. Worse, he struggles with his temper, and he’s not even sure he belongs in New York.

Leo decides to take Chris on despite Chris's misgivings, with some help from his friends from Les’s Bar. He knows pretty much right away he’s not going to want to let Chris go. But will he be able to convince Chris they can both get what they need, and that the ex can't threaten their new relationship?

Genres: BDSM, M M Romance, Romance, LGBT, Contemporary

232 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 28, 2025

About the author

JODI spent too many years in New York and San Francisco stage managing classical plays, edgy fringe work, and the occasional musical. She, therefore, is overdramatic, takes herself way too seriously, and has been known to randomly break out in song. Her men are imperfect but genuine, stubborn but likable, often kinky, and frequently their own worst enemies. They are characters you can’t help but fall in love with while they stumble along the path to their happily ever after.

For those looking to get on her good side, Jodi’s addictions include nonfat lattes, Malbec and tequila however you pour it. She’s also obsessed with Shakespeare and Broadway musicals. She can be found wearing sock monkey gloves while typing when it’s cold, and on the beach enjoying the sun and the ocean when it’s hot. When she’s not writing and/or vacuuming sand out of her laptop, Jodi mentors queer youth and will drop everything for live music. Jodi lives near New York City with her beautiful wife, and together they are mothers of dragons (cleverly disguised as children) and slaves to an enormous polydactyl cat.

Reviews

[bubblegumpopper · Rating 2 out of 5]

I hadn't read any of this series prior to this one, so I took the time to read the first four entries in the series before this one and I just got increasingly annoyed with each new entry in the series. They all have a lot of promise, but they all make the exact same mistakes. The BDSM relationship goes from zero to total love ridiculously fast, even if the participants didn't have any former experience with these types of relationships (though, in this one they do both have previous experience at least). They also all introduce intriguing backstories/problems, but then they just NEVER RESOLVE THEM. So what the hell happened to Zack and Edward? We'll never know, I guess. They go from terrorizing Chris to just...buggering off, I guess? There's zero follow-up on where that landed after the confrontation at the bar. This series would be a really interesting look into BDSM relationships and the dynamics within them, but it ultimately just left me repeatedly frustrated and plot-blocked.

I did like that this one had a Dom that was also a bottom, so that was something new and interesting that hadn't been explored in the series yet.

***

I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.

[Edga · Rating 3 out of 5]

Leo, a dom who would like a sub, meets his match in Chris, a stubborn boy who's been betrayed and doubts he'll ever find his Master. This is quite a cute BDSM romance, involving two guys who, it turns out, are very well matched. Leo turned out to be more dominant than I thought he would be, but Chris (or Chrissy), finds Leo irresistible and settles into a relationship with him. I did feel that Chris gave in to Leo much too easily, considering the anger and disillusionment, caused by his previous relationship. It is, however, quite an enjoyable story, even though I do believe that all could've been resolved much sooner. Also, I did find the angst which took place near the end of the story, unnecessary, and a little pointless. Despite all of this the ending to Leo and Chris' story is a sweet one.

[Xanthe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful romance that has Leo giving Chris the chance to be the man he was meant to be, before a supposed Dom kicked him to the kerb.
Chris is definitely more of an animal person, which Leo finds adorable as a vet. It's clear how much those close to him mean, it's just hard to become that. Leo is an easily lovable guy. He quickly sees Chris, his pain and how to help him through. It's lovely to read as he helps with Chris's self worth, mental health and as they build a relationship built strongly on trust in each other and being exactly what the other needs.
It's rare to get a submissive top/dominant bottom and I love the way that the authors have written the two together. It's just one of the many moments they share that cements the bond that starts after bonding over, what else? Animals.
A lighter story than what some of the others in this series has been, though Chris does have to learn to control his temper and their community really comes together when someone starts harassing him. Another recommended read, especially for fans of the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.

[Julie Underhill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lost Boy by Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga is the 5th book in their Les’s Bar series. I suggest you read the others first to understand what kind of bar it is and also for some reoccurring characters. This is the story of a man who moves to New York City for his boyfriend, gets dumped in a horrible way, and then finds another who really sees him and understands him and falls in love. Chris Kinney moved to New York City from Colorado to live with his Dom boyfriend who after some time decided he wasn’t what he wanted or needed and found another sub to replace him. He was devastated but continued on. He was in the Air Force and when he left he became a dog trainer for bomb and drug sniffing dogs. When he moved to NYC he became a dog trainer for the NYPD. He loved his job with the dogs but was lost and in his head and wasn’t sure he was a sub any more. This changed when he met Leo. Dr. Leo Aetos was a veterinarian and a Dom. He frequented Les’s Bar when he could because Doms and subs gathered there and became friends. It was there that he heard about a sub who was kind of crazy that was staying with his friend Neil. He went to the bar to see if he could be of help because headstrong subs could be kind of fun. He actually met him when one of Chris’s dogs was shot and took him to his clinic. He took a liking to him and when Chris sent him some pants he was looking for, he invited him over to watch Despicable Me which led to him spending the night and an offer to move into his spare bedroom because staying in a hotel was expensive. Chris told Leo about what happened with his ex, Zach, and that he wanted him to be someone he wasn’t and he wasn’t sure he had any more submission to give. When Chris decided to stay with Leo he found out that he had worked too much overtime and had to take 2 weeks off. He spent that time with Leo and volunteering at his clinic, a job he really liked. Plus he got to meet some kittens that he adored. As time went on both men felt an attraction to each other and Leo knew just what Chrissy needed, whether it was to spend time with animals, let off steam by having some hot love scenes with him, getting a spanking he really wanted, or finally finding sleep cuddled in his arms. Chrissy was also finding that he could trust Leo to give him what he needed, even though he was sometimes a snarky or naughty sub. The more time he spent with him the safer his heart felt and Leo made him feel protected and secure. Leo also had feelings for Chrissy and knew that he was his and would do anything for him. When Zack and his new sub showed up and started trying to hurt Chrissy, Leo and his friends from the bar were right there taking care of the situation. Leo and Chrissy knew they were the ones for each other and were happy to say I love you often. I really enjoyed this book. There is a lot of hurt/comfort and you feel for what Chrissy is going through. At first his head is all over the place and he can’t settle except when he is with the dogs. He isn’t sleeping and struggling with his life. When he meets Leo he isn’t sure he can be what he needs but Leo is kind and patient and as his Dom knows just what he needs when he needs it. This leads him to trust him and follow his directions and to fall in love. Both men weren’t looking for love but were happy when it found them. The Doms and the subs at Les’s Bar were also there for them in good times and in bad and had their backs and the kittens were a cute addition. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like hurt/comfort stories about Doms and subs who have to go through a lot to find they are a perfect match as they grow to love each other.

[Bluemoonchild · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lost Boy by Jodi Payne and B.A. Tortuga is the 5th book in the Les's Bar series, but can be read as a complete standalone. I have not read any of the other books (yet) and did not find that I was lacking information or context.

****

Chris Kinney is a hot-headed Police K9 trainer who has been struggling to remember who he is in the wake of a crushing heartbreak. Having upended his entire life to dedicate himself to a relationship with his previous Dom, only to be discarded for a more submissive replacement, Chris believes he has failed as a sub. Though determined to put that part of his life behind him, Chris is struggling - drinking too much, sleeping too little, and fighting against those who care about him.

Leo Aetos is a rock-solid veterinarian, a Dom looking for a unicorn of a sub. When he hears about a wild, out-of-control sub a friend of his is trying to help, he feels called to help. When he meets Chris following a tragedy with a K9 officer, his desire to take the sub under his wing to help him is stronger. Leo's quiet strength and his genuine compassion create a solid foundation for their friendship, and their progression to an intimate relationship is mostly believable (the first physical interaction between them seemed to come out of nowhere and was a little jarring with how abruptly it happened).

This is a gently paced book, with lots of scenes that explore Chris's vulnerability and growing trust in Leo. One notable flaw is the resolution of Chris's internal struggle with his submission. Thinking that he failed as a sub in his previous relationship, the entire premise of this book is based on Chris not believing that he has any submission to give to Leo. He resisted Leo's dominance for so long and with such compelling reasoning, that his ultimate acceptance of it feels a little rushed. The groundwork was laid but it felt like the payoff arrived too quickly.

Despite this, it's a satisfying read with a lot of heart and well-drawn characters. Readers who enjoy size-differences and non-stereotypical D/s roles, opposites attract, high emotional stakes, and heartfelt stories about finding love when you've given up on it, will find this a worthwhile read.

[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]

[Eileen Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

There is something about this series that really grabs you.

Leo works as a veterinarian and loves his job. He loves all the animals, he has a great place to live and Les's Bar is his favorite place to go to let lose. He wishes it was closer to his place but sometimes it does not matter. On his most recent visit to the club he is told of a problem sub who is currently staying with some friends of his. He is a sub but he does not like for it to be easy. His apartment had issues and the friend took him in but there was already three of them there is this new guy is not an easy one to live with. Leo is intrigued by the story thinking he may need to meet this man.

Chris is a dog trainer and works with K9 dogs of the NYPD. He came her for a relationship but when the Dom decided Chris was not what he wanted he dumped him and left him alone in the city with no other friends. When his place flooded he needed somewhere to stay he ended up with some acquaintances but he is a nighthawk and they all get up in the morning. He also drinks and is a bit bitter about life. After getting a call that one of the dogs he trained has been shot he rushes to be with the cop and dog at the vet office, but the dog did not make it. Chris is crushed he knows it can happen but then on top of it all he get s call from one of the three he has been staying with and it pushes him over the edge, he yells and throws his phone and it nearly hits the vet. Of course the vet just happens to Leo.

Leo can not believe the man he was asking about just happened to be in his clinic. He can see what everyone has been talking about but after losing Buster the K9 pup they bond over feeding a little of baby kittens. Leo offers one of his extra bedrooms up to Chris and a job at the vet office as well. He could use some more help of the knowledgeable type.

Will Chrissy take Leo up on his offer? How long will it take for Leo to show his true colors to Chrissy? Can Chrissy let himself be loved? Will Leo be able to teach Chrissy how to be a sub or will they find out he is not a sub? Will the kitten play a part in something for the two of them? Will the club help them? Is this a passing fancy or could it be forever.

I love these authors together and separate. I try to read almost everything they write. I love this series for how they have woven together these men with all their issues and heal them to be a bigger happier version of themselves. Looking forward to the next installment.

[Amanda Winter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lost Boy is the fifth book in the Les’s Bar series, but don’t worry if you haven’t read the others—I hadn’t either, and I didn't feel lost or missing any key details. It works perfectly as a standalone, which is always a plus when jumping into a new series.

This book follows Chris Kinney, a hot-headed K9 trainer who’s been struggling to piece his life back together after a crushing heartbreak. He walked away from everything to build a life with his former Dom, only to be discarded for someone more submissive. Now, he’s convinced he’s a failure as a sub and is determined to leave that part of himself behind. But that’s easier said than done. Chris is spiralling—drinking too much, pushing away his friends, and barely sleeping. He’s lost, but he doesn’t know how to find his way back.

Then there’s Leo Aetos, a veterinarian and a Dom with a soft heart and a steady hand. When he hears about Chris through a mutual friend, he’s immediately intrigued. A wild, out-of-control sub in desperate need of stability? Leo feels drawn to help. When the two meet under tragic circumstances—after a devastating loss involving a K9 officer—Leo sees the broken pieces of Chris and wants to help him put them back together. Their slow-building friendship, grounded in patience and understanding, eventually turns into something more.

The pacing of this book is gentle, giving plenty of space for Chris’s vulnerability to shine and for his trust in Leo to develop naturally. That being said, there was one moment that felt a little abrupt—their first physical interaction happened out of nowhere, which caught me off guard. And while I loved the emotional depth of Chris’s struggle with submission, his final acceptance of it felt a little rushed.

Overall, Lost Boy is a heartfelt and engaging read. If you love opposites-attract romances, emotional healing, size-difference pairings, and D/s relationships that break stereotypes, this book is definitely worth picking up. Chris and Leo’s journey is one of learning to trust again, finding love when you least expect it, and embracing who you truly are—even when it scares you.

Would I go back and read the rest of the Les’s Bar series after this? Absolutely. And that’s always a good sign.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the dynamic between Leo and Chris, the two seemed made for each other. I don’t know much about the Dom/sub relationship, but Leo was unlike any other Dom I had read about. He was so patient and calm, always seemed to know what Chris needed (I think that’s supposed to be a good trait in a Dom, but like I said, what do I know) and was able to give it to him without strong resistance on Chris’s part, even though Chris kept insisting to himself he wasn’t a sub and didn’t want to be one. Their connection to animals gave them such a strong place to bond, and Leo introducing Chris to the kittens was a masterful stroke, I thought, to give Chris something to focus on when things got to be too much for him, a calming factor, and it helped Chrissy build trust in Leo, a bonus moving forward. The kittens also gave Chrissy a chance to interact at home with something or someone other than Leo that didn’t involve “people-ing”. Not being a “traditional” Dom in the usual sense also worked in favor of the relationship moving forward., as both had their needs met without a conflict. Leo definitely had Chrissy’s back, giving him what he needed (but maybe didn’t want), there for him as a protector, encourager, confidence builder, and the one person who really “saw” him and knew his value. To see Chrissy grow into the person Leo saw under all the “bad boy image” was inspiring and emotionally satisfying. I had read about something similar to the atonement time or adjustment time in other books as a way to finish the day right and start over, and it always seemed to be a good way to settle Chrissy after a day, good or bad, and set him on a more positive path in the morning. I really liked seeing the way this particular D/s dynamic worked.

I’m not sure how many of the other Les’s Bar series books I have read, but I’m interested enough in the side characters to want the rest of their stories, too. I really enjoy books written by these two authors together, and always watch for new ones when they come out. I am always assured of an interesting and engaging story, and wonderful main and side characters that pull me in for the ride from beginning to end with a feeling of immense satisfaction of a story well told at the end. I hope you will find them enjoyable too.

[Tara Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chris is snappy, angry, and disappointed in himself. He thought he needed to be a sub, but he had failed at it when his last Dom threw him away for someone else. It crushed him he had tried so hard and didn’t please his master. Now he knew he was wrong. He couldn’t be a good sub, which left him feeling unsettled; at least he had his job, which he loved, and that was going to have to be enough for him.

Leo is a Dom. He does some scenes when he feels he needs to relax, but he couldn’t imagine having a lifelong full-time sub. Nobody fit him well enough, they never felt right. He was a successful vet with the things he needed to make himself happy, including a community that helped him scratch that itch when needed.

When these two men run into each other, they both find out they might have been wrong about themselves, and they needed take a hard look at what they needed.

OPINION: This is the fifth book in the series, and I really enjoyed it. I have read one other and plan to catch up by reading 1-3. This is a wonderful look into the Dom/s culture, and I love it. Seeing this community highlighted in these books is amazing. The fact that it shows how kind and loving these relationships can be warms my heart. These two characters are great together. Two puzzle pieces that need each other. Chris (the sub) needs a firm hand but has to be allowed to trust and accept that he was good and didn’t fail his ex. Leo is so sweet and wonderful. He has a gentle hand when needed but demands respect and gets it. These books have a wonderful community that you see in all the stories. If you are the least bit interested in this world, read these books; if you want a great love story, it’s in this book. Written so well, and filled with so much story. These two find their HEA, and the romance is top-notch. There is plenty of spice, including some BDSM, but it is all from a loving place.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Coming into this series at book 5. The blurb intrigued me. I like the Dom/sub trope, as well as the Dom and sub trying to find their way together to make the relationship work.
However coming in at book 5, it seemed a bit overwhelming to have so many people thrown at you without much explanation. I don’t know if the other books are like that.

So the storyline was fine, I felt a bit lost in the beginning, I don’t think the flow of writing flows with me, it always felt like I was missing something from their conversation from the story, from something, I continued to feel like I wasn’t in on the joke. I had some difficulty at times following the conversation, like who said what.

I would even say I’m interested in catching up with the rest of the “community” but their stories seemed pretty straight forward and didn’t leave me wanting to find out more.

Things I liked about it. The fact that Leo was so gentle and that he rocked cutesy scrubs. Chris who was unapologetically himself. I like angry black cat Chris vs the golden retriever Leo. I also like that this Dom/sub relationship was not typical Dom toppy and sub bottom. I like the love of animals bringing the two together.

Things I didn’t like about it. I think due to his size Leo spoke in a calming way which translated on paper, and sometimes it rubbed me the wrong way, like I wanted him to have some passion, have some emotions, like I’d push his buttons just to see when he’d snap. Also how did they handle Zack and Edward, like just told him to bugger off and don’t return to the bar? Doesn’t seem to be very tame for the harassment Chrissy received and for the near punching I’m gleaming Leo wanted to do.

The saving grace of this story is that Chrissy found trust in his Master Leo, and Leo was taken off the market. That part was cute. Recommend for those looking to read about a difficult to wrangle toppy sub who just needed to find a bottom Master with enough patience.

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

LOST BOY is the fifth book in the Les's Bar series and the first one in this series I have read. Although it would have been nice to have read the previous books, I didn't need to, to enjoy this one.

Leo is a big and tall veterinarian (his words) who desperately wants some Minion scrubs. Chris is a K9 trainer who doesn't believe he is a sub considering how his past relationship went. Together, these two make the perfect cinnamon roll.

I really enjoyed this story. Leo was just perfect in every way - possessive (in a good way) and protective, caring and loving. The fact that what he wanted in the bedroom matched up with Chris was just the icing on the cake. Chris is the one who changes the most. Or should I say 'flourishes'? In a relationship with the right person who allowed him to grow and gave him what he needed, Chris transformed from a scrappy, hot-headed character to one who still had a temper but was willing to take a different approach first.

I'm not 100% sure about the ending though - a) it didn't feel necessary, and b) nothing really happened. I mean, two people got banned but that was it. Come on! I wanted to know that they had paid for their crime! I wanted them to have a miserable awakening. Oh, well.

A standalone story I have no hesitation in recommending, although I now want to read the others just because I can.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 22, 2025

[S.M. Harshell · Rating 4 out of 5]

LOST BOY is the fifth installment in The Les's Bar Series. It can be read as a standalone without issue. This is the first book I've read from the authors so I went it blind to this series but had absolutely no problem following along with current and past characters.

Chris Kinney followed a man from Colorado who did him wrong in the worst of ways. He is a K9 dog trainer for the NYPD and absolutely loves his job. Chris is staying with his friend Neil but it is putting pressure on his relationship with his Neil's Dom and Sub. It's the last thing Chris wants. Dr. Leo Aetos is a gentle giant of a veterinarian. He is a Dom looking for his boy that frequents Les's Bar often and overhears talk of a sub who is very strong willed. Leo is intrigued and offers to help. Chris agrees to stay with Leo assuring Leo he isn't a sub but everything Leo witnesses says otherwise. Leo thinks he is a sub but needs to feel safe to let that part of him out completely. Chris isn't convinced but is willing to try for Leo.

I loved the dynamic between these two. It isn't conventional but that's what made me love it even more. Chris had baggage but Leo was so willing to help Chris carry that baggage for him.

I am definitely going back and reading the previous books in this series after getting so invested in these characters.

[Julia Toth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was and enjoyable and quick read. I jumped into this series with this book, which is book 5 in the series but I had no problems following along. Also, now I want to read the other books in the series as well.

I like to read about different dynamics between main characters, and this was definitely up my alley. I love when characters are different from what people expect of them. Leo and Chrissy's dynamic is something that works very well for them, even if others don't really understand them and their needs. Chris needed space to work through his feelings about them being together because of a former partner that made him feel inadequate. I loved that Leo knew to give him that space, but also helped him realize things by talking openly and honestly. It didn't hurt that Leo knew what Chris needed and tried to steer him that way. I loved their open and honest communication and the fact that Leo always seemed to know which were the best questions to ask to better their life together.
Chris was misunderstood by people in the lifestyle because no one took the time to get to know him and look closer, but thankfully Leo saw what others did not.

Pick this up if you want to read a book that is on the lighter side of BDSM lifestyle or if you're just starting out and you're not sure it's something for you. I enjoyed the writing and it felt like an easy read.

[Annette✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Gay Romance Reviews for providing me with an ARC copy. This is my honest opinion.

The start of this book was very promising but it’s a no for me. It’s about a vet named Leo, who loves wearing funny scrubs and is also a Dom. He meets Chris who is a K9 dog trainer, after a late night call when a dog get’s shot on the job.

It had alot of potential. A bratty sub who’s a bit lost at the moment because of his ex relationship and looking for guidance. They become roommates and very quickly start a sexual relationship.

The constantly calling him “Chrissy” and “boy” just annoyed me for some reason. The MC keeps saying that he doesn’t like being called that and still it gets used in almost every sentence. I know that calling someone boy in the BDSM scene is normal. But all the time?

The whole part at the end with being harassed by the ex and his sub and getting those text messaged just came out of nowhere for me. It felt a bit rushed and i got the feeling that the author needed something to happen at the last minute.
And lastly, calling a dick a prick.. that’s a no for me aswell. “He touched my prick” i dunno..
Again, it started as promising for me but went later on downhill very fast.

[Jeanette Waters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lost Boy is the fifth book in the Jodi Payne/ BA Tortuga Les's Bar series. It's a hurt/comfort, size difference tale. The BDSM kink is a lite touch, there's no smexy times until we're a third of the way through. Then.... no hold's bar. Veterinarian Leo is a Dom who has no problem finding boys for scenes. But he can't find a Boy who he wants to keep. K-9 trainer, Chris, is the lost boy from the title. He followed a Dom from Colorado to NYC, only to be dumped in a "it's you, not me" way. His confidence is shot. He really doesn't know what to do, or what he wants.
Leo provides him with what he needs. Infinitely patient, Leo coaxes Chris into being the boy that he can be and the submissive he secretly wants to be.
I don't think it would be a BA Tortuga story without the food references. And the fur babies. Dot and Spot are newborn kitties and play a big part in Leo and Chris' relationship. Leo's staff and the members of Les's bar previous stories
are supportive and loving.
A quick, fun read. Neither Leo nor Chris are the typical Dom/sub. But as Ms. Tortuga has written several times, BDSM looks different for all couples. The book was well written. Pacing was nicely done. Thoroughly enjoyable.
I received an advance copy of this book from GRR and this is my review.

[E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Lost Boy” by Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga is the fifth book in the ‘Les’s Bar’ series and centers around veterinarian Leo, and the man he meets through one of his patients, dog trainer Chris. They slowly develop a non-traditional D/s relationship that works for them, even as they navigate through past hurts and current challenges.

This adult gay romance features an intriguing twist on the dominance-submission relationship and stars two memorable characters. Even though this story is part of a series, I had no problem reading it as a stand-alone story, although I am curious about the back stories alluded to. I love tales that remind us to be comfortable with ourselves the way we are, and the authors did a nice job of revealing the layers of each man’s character and how they find a way to mesh. I was captured by the story from the very beginning and quickly began hoping that these two found a way to get past preconceptions and trust each other. The sizzling scenes are nicely balanced by the emotional ones, and I definitely want to read more in this series.

A copy of this title was provided for review

[Sarita Chapdelaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lost Boy is a good addition to the Les's Bar series with an interesting storyline, great characters and there is a different take on the Dom/boy dynamic. Leo is sweet and funny while still being a fairly firm and demanding Dom. Chris has been badly treated in the past and has a lot to learn about being a boy and how to find a good work/life balance. They are an intriguing couple and I like how their relationship develops as Chris has a lot to learn about himself and he needs the stability and caring that Leo is so willing to give to him. They have several issues to work out between them as well as an outside threat that Chris has to deal with. The lack of a real resolution and not knowing what happened between the Doms and the two people tormenting Chris left this book feeling unfinished to me. Overall I did enjoy most of this story and I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

[L H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chris and Leo are very different men, not only in size but also in temperament. Leo is a big guy, who happens to be a veterinarian as well as a Dom who prefers to receive. Chris is a hot headed K-9 trainer, small in stature and a bit out of control because of a relationship gone sour that left him feeling like a failure. They don't seem as if they would fit, but actually, Leo is perfect for Chris. Leo has the kind of skills needed to give Chris the time to come to trust that they can be good together. They start building a friendship and it moves along at a pace that is respectful of Chris' need to heal and believe that they can connect and move forward. This was lovely and really showed off the skills of not only a loving Dom but also a skilled vet in bringing a skittish being to the point where he felt he could be happy. Lovely.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy Weller · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing series!

I loved this book! We head back to Les’s Bar for the story of Chris and Leo. Leo’s not your typical Dom and Chris is a sub out of a bad relationship questioning if he truly is submissive. The two meet when Chris is staying with friends and struggling and Leo finds a way to get him to stay at his apartment and the two mesh immediately. It isn’t long before Leo wants more and he gets Chris to agree to give it a try. Chris finds that Leo truly sees him and I love how their relationship develops as their story unfolds. There will be some trouble with Chris’s ex and his ex’s new sub but Leo will be right there for him and Chris will find their friends also have his back. It will clear the way for Chris and Leo to get their happily ever after.

I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.

[Flick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leo and Chris were too cute!

These two were adorable together and worked really well as a couple. One of my favourite things about these writers is that their couples aren’t just romantic, so much of their relationship comes from friendship first. I’m not hating on relationships that start and stay romantic at all, but it’s nice to see couples who also start with that friendship especially where you can see that throughout the story even when things become romantic (if that makes sense lol). I will admit, I was aggravated in Chris’ behalf initially. Support from friends is really important but it’s also not okay for the support to turn into treating someone like they can’t be trusted, are incapable or are beholden to you. Let’s just say I was getting ready to throw hands for Chris until Leo came onto the scene (no pun intended hehe) and gave him the space to be a grown human who could make decisions for himself. I loved that Leo trusted in Chris. Did he help? Yes. Did he offer advice? Absolutely. But he didn’t make Chris feel incapable or invalid, he was there as support. And if he ever at first failed to give the support Chris needed in the moment he listened when Chris told him what he needed and corrected to give him that. It was what made me love these guys so much (and what makes me love BA’s characters so much). They truly listen to each other (even if sometimes it takes a second).

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful, totally enjoyable book that takes us back to Les's Bar. In this story, Chris is a rather angry, volatile maybe-sub who was dumped by his previous master. Now, the BDSM community in the area is unsure of him and he's the source of some gossip.

Leo is a big bear of a man who is a Dom who also happens to prefer to bottom. Never finding the right match in a submissive, he lives alone in a basic, content life. However, when he learns about Chris, something calls to him. When he meets Chris, he feels the pull of attraction.

Chris has been burned so badly that he's still prickly and afraid to commit in much of any way. Leo sees through the facade and knows that Chris just needs a dom who is consistent and who puts him first. This is a beautiful journey toward healing and forever love. Read the entire series because every story is just this good!

[J.L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my favorite things about this series is that Payne and Tortuga combine recognizable tropes of this subgenre with their "east meets west" niche and plant everything into relatable, real-world settings. Leo and Chris not only aren't looking for each other, they've given up on searching altogether, which makes their connection all the more satisfying. I enjoyed how the romance and kink aspects of their relationship arc don't follow the same pattern, which introduces a subtle element of conflict that kept me on my toes as a reader. Though the books in this series stand alone quite well, I always appreciate that the found family aspect still shines through with effective use of secondary characters and cameos/references to past series heroes.

Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the authors.

[Jack Harkness · Rating 4 out of 5]

Minions jammies, sausage biscuits, Elmo scrubs, 'out of spoons', bacon-hound, fuss & plotz, limp bacon

This is Book 5 of the 'Les's Bar' series. Reading the previous books isn't necessary. This time it's Leo, a veterinarian, and police dog-trainer Chris who are front and center. Included in this story are light bondage and moderate D/s themes. Oh, and high steam.

Hot-headed Chris displays sub traits, but doesn't identify as such. Chris has a reputation around town for being wild. Veterinarian Leo, a Dom, takes Chris under his wing. Characters of the previous books make cameos. Of course, Les's Bar is center stage. Although the ending is a little flat, this book is still enjoyable. Recommended.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book contains a sweet love story, BDSM, two strong flawed characters and a HEA. The story focuses on Leo and Chris and their love story. How they thought they would never have what their friends had, but suddenly they meet and everything seems possible. Leo and Chris are in a D/s relationship.
Chris had a traumatic experience with an ex that left him insecure and struggling to trust another dom again. Leo is a Dom and he is fascinated by Chris. He wants a relationship with Chris where both can get what they need. Chris tried to resist Leo's dominance but Leo managed to teach him how to be a good sub and how to control his temper. Meanwhile, they fell in love.

This book stands on its own. I haven't read the other books in the series and didn't find any information missing.

[Vols77 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another nice addition to a great series. While you can read and enjoy this as a standalone book you will love it more if you read the first four books as the characters and the "bar" reoccur throughout these books allowing a sense of connectivity and familiarity. This one is on Leo and Chris, two men that love dogs more than people and neither looking for love. I love that Leo is the dom but in no way is he the typically written dom. Chris, whose story broke me, I just wanted to hug. Of course his firmly temper gets him into trouble and he needs someone to help him control it--enter Leo. How they meet in perfect for their personalities. While I did not connect as fully with main characters as it other books it is still a fantastic read. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.

[abookwithacupoftea · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a sweet story between Leo a big sweet Dom and Chris who is not sure anymore he is a sub, after a bad experience with a Dom. The story is sweet and the characters endearing, but I had a hard time to get into the book. Maybe the style is not really for me ; the first chapters mention many characters that are probably from other books that I have not read, also it's a 3rd person redaction mixing in the same paragraphs actions and thoughts from both characters. I also had the feeling that we have many loose ends, regarding the past of the characters, the interactions between the characters, but also with other side characters, etc...

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

[Raven and Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I admit that I would read anything, literally anything, published by this writing duo. I love them both so much. Their D/s books are some of my favorites, both in the subject and written by them. Leo is not your typical Dom. I love him so much! He is such a big, happy man, with a smile on his face and all the love in his heart. Chris is a little lost. He had a bad Dom and it is making him question his worth and his submission. There is no one better to show him how worthy he is than Leo. I absolutely adored this book. I think Leo and Chrissy are going to be one of my favorite couples from this series.

[Tanya Blue · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little bit of a whirlwind. Everyone thinks Chris is a sub but he's not so sure. Neil is convinced Chris is a boy and needs a daddy Dom. After his latest Dom cheated on him and basically threw him out, Chris doesn't know where he stands. Chris gets a text from one of his trainees that her K-9 had been shot, Chris rushed to the Vet's clinic where he met Dr Leo Aetos. Leo is in the community and friends with Neil and Issac. Chris's apartment had flooded so Leo offers his spare room. Leo is willing to take Chris on, but they each have special needs. Need that, as it turns out, dovetail perfectly. Definitely BDSM light. Enjoyable read.

[KB · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

This was an interesting read. I loved seeing the growth and development of the characters through the story. The MCs have a good on-page chemistry. More supporting character development would have been good, but then I haven’t read any of the other books in the Les’s Bar series, and while the book description on GRR said prior reading wasn’t required, I’m wondering if I’m missing out on universe nuances.

I also have a personal squick with the D/s use of the masc M-word, but I otherwise enjoyed the story.

[Elaine Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chris is struggling with self-doubt after failing to please his previous Dom, leaving him feeling like he’s not cut out to be a sub. He focuses on his job, which he loves, but still feels unsettled. Leo, a Dom, enjoys occasional scenes but doesn’t see himself ever committing to a full-time sub, as he’s never found the right person. Both men are content with their separate lives—Chris with his career and Leo with his vet work—but when they meet, they realize they might have been wrong about themselves. They both need to re-evaluate their needs and desires, and their encounter sparks a journey of self-discovery for both.