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Power Exchange #3
Consent
Content Warning: contains scenes of rape and graphic violence and may not be suitable for sensitive readers. Discretion advised.
Cole, what’s wrong?
Former detective Gavin DeGrassi likes his new life and his job as a university professor, molding the minds of the next generation of law enforcement. It keeps him in the field he loves, but out of the media and out of the danger he seems to draw. He’s settled and happy with his partner and Dom, Ben Haverson.
It’s Myah.
Until a middle of the night phone call from his brother, Cole, whose desperation and fear yank him back into the world of criminals and countdowns. Only this time, the stakes are much higher.
She’s missing.
Detective Myah Hayes, Gavin’s sister-in-law and former partner, has a past of her own, one that has returned to claim her. With only their instincts and the help of a rogue CSI, Gavin, Ben, and Cole will do whatever it takes to find Myah, following a flimsy trail of evidence to Chicago, where all is not what it seems—dirty cops, moral pimps, and a nest of snakes who call themselves businessmen.
They’re on a collision course with the worst of humanity, and more than Myah’s life is caught in the vortex. Can they find her, and if they do, will there be anything left to save?
Cole, what’s wrong?
Former detective Gavin DeGrassi likes his new life and his job as a university professor, molding the minds of the next generation of law enforcement. It keeps him in the field he loves, but out of the media and out of the danger he seems to draw. He’s settled and happy with his partner and Dom, Ben Haverson.
It’s Myah.
Until a middle of the night phone call from his brother, Cole, whose desperation and fear yank him back into the world of criminals and countdowns. Only this time, the stakes are much higher.
She’s missing.
Detective Myah Hayes, Gavin’s sister-in-law and former partner, has a past of her own, one that has returned to claim her. With only their instincts and the help of a rogue CSI, Gavin, Ben, and Cole will do whatever it takes to find Myah, following a flimsy trail of evidence to Chicago, where all is not what it seems—dirty cops, moral pimps, and a nest of snakes who call themselves businessmen.
They’re on a collision course with the worst of humanity, and more than Myah’s life is caught in the vortex. Can they find her, and if they do, will there be anything left to save?
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2014
59 people are currently reading
1029 people want to read
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October 2, 2014
4.5 stars. Review completed October 2, 2014
First things first. I have an inkling that anyone who’s a stickler for law-abiding police procedurals and isn't thrilled about illegally-gathered evidence should stay away from this book. Also, if you can't deal with explicit violence (incl. rape) then this book is not for you. Consent is certainly not a walk in the park but it wasn't the most explicit or violent book I've read to date. Now that we've clarified these important details, let me get down to business.
Gavin DeGrassi, a criminology professor and former detective, gets an anxious phone call from his younger brother Cole at 2:18 a.m. It's Myah, Cole's wife. She was out running some errands and didn't come home. Gavin and his partner, Dr. Ben Haverson, are quick to start their own investigation. A trail leads Ben, Gavin, and Cole to Chicago in general and Boystown in particular. Thus, to Myah's professional past. A desperate race against time begins.
Given the fact that the subject matter was grave and cruel, I'd be lying if I said it was an enjoyable read. It was, however, a very worthy sequel to the Power Exchange series. Still, Safeword remains my favorite. As hoped for, Ben is once again in his element. The man is a force to be reckoned with. It goes without saying that I love him to pieces. Surprise, surprise. While dealing with the baddies, Ben, The Badass, has introduced me to some scary interrogation skills. With Gavin, however, he's empathic as ever.
First erotic scene. A master at work. A heady experience. It’s absolutely exquisite. Gavin solely bound by Ben's words and touch.
HolyshitwasthisfuckingamazingandIwanttovolunteer.
Shush…calm down, Baba. But…but...It.Was.Stunning.
There was a dreamy quality about it that warmed my heart but also made my toes curl in pure excitement and abandon. Ben’s hands, lips, and tongue soaked up all of Gavin’s worries. There’s a never ending well of strength and understanding imprinted in their minds and hearts. Ben is Gavin’s anchor who gives him everything he needs and at the same time Gavin can let go and fly to his secure place. Ben had him, will always have him; he’ll catch him when he falls. Of course that goes both ways. They converse from deep within, proof of a profound trust for each other that bears no superfluous action or words.
The ménage
The infamous threesome, which was based on 'ulterior motives', and was the source of much drama a couple months ago, was beautifully orchestrated and very hot. The scene claimed only a minor part of the entire plot. Honestly, I couldn't find anything terrible or 'wrong' about it. I know my Ben. He would never have done anything against Gavin's wishes. They talked about it, were on the same page and Ben set the limits which had been approved by Gavin. Among other things Ben said:
What actually led to the threesome was exciting and sexy. The dance floor action? One word: Amazeballs. I won't lie, the guy who joined in their bedroom action intrigued me from the get-go. And, to be honest, it was very clear who the third man would be when I first laid my eyes on him. Yet feeling the engaging build-up to, ultimately, getting in the mood for that threesome kept me on my toes. Physically, the third man was absolutely stunning and I can't wait to really get to know him. It looks like his background and job provide the basis to develop an interesting story. I think AJ is going to deliver yet another smashing hit. To say that I'm stoked to read his book would be a slight understatement.
The violence
Violence is always a sensitive subject matter and the impact is different for every reader. What probably made it worse here was the fact that a woman, and one of my all-time favorite secondary characters at that, was at the receiving end of said violence (and rape). Although she wasn't the only one who had to face such cruelty. I strongly advise you to read the author's note at the end of Consent regarding human trafficking and LGBT youth. It was tough to read at times. The violence, however, got worse towards the end of the story. There were a couple incredibly cruel scenes that made the first rape scene appear to be "less violent", probably due to the fact of the different levels of explicitness.
It fucking hurt
This^^^^^^^
I wanted to bawl my eyes out. It's so damn unfair. HUGE spoiler:
Minor quibbles
The leap in time between and the very sweet and very happy epilogue didn't add up for me. I was like 'How can you leave me with these deep and tormenting words and not show me
I felt that I missed out on and the sweet epilogue stood in stark contrast to the heavy subject matter which left me somewhat confused. All in all it wasn't enough; something was missing because the author
And last but not least I would like to say that Myah rocks. Since I met her in Power Exchange, I think I had a little girl crush on her. She's strong, loyal, open-minded, and courageous with a big fighter's heart and has earned her place on my shelf of memorable secondary characters.
Bottom line, Consent has it all: Sensual, intimate and hot erotic scenes that complement a riveting and emotional story. Very good writing and characterizations and a constant suspense that will keep you turning the pages until the end. Provided you can't be deterred by explicit violence and you are a fan of this series, chances are Consent will end up as a winner for you. Overall it's a tough but great addition to the Power Exchange series that will tug at your heartstrings. Keep the tissues at the ready. It's obvious that I can't wait to read the next installment. I'm positive that Mr. Green Eyes will be worth the wait.
Recommended read.
I'd like to advise you to read the books in order:
Power Exchange
Safeword
Consent
First things first. I have an inkling that anyone who’s a stickler for law-abiding police procedurals and isn't thrilled about illegally-gathered evidence should stay away from this book. Also, if you can't deal with explicit violence (incl. rape) then this book is not for you. Consent is certainly not a walk in the park but it wasn't the most explicit or violent book I've read to date. Now that we've clarified these important details, let me get down to business.
Gavin DeGrassi, a criminology professor and former detective, gets an anxious phone call from his younger brother Cole at 2:18 a.m. It's Myah, Cole's wife. She was out running some errands and didn't come home. Gavin and his partner, Dr. Ben Haverson, are quick to start their own investigation. A trail leads Ben, Gavin, and Cole to Chicago in general and Boystown in particular. Thus, to Myah's professional past. A desperate race against time begins.
Given the fact that the subject matter was grave and cruel, I'd be lying if I said it was an enjoyable read. It was, however, a very worthy sequel to the Power Exchange series. Still, Safeword remains my favorite. As hoped for, Ben is once again in his element. The man is a force to be reckoned with. It goes without saying that I love him to pieces. Surprise, surprise. While dealing with the baddies, Ben, The Badass, has introduced me to some scary interrogation skills. With Gavin, however, he's empathic as ever.
First erotic scene. A master at work. A heady experience. It’s absolutely exquisite. Gavin solely bound by Ben's words and touch.
HolyshitwasthisfuckingamazingandIwanttovolunteer.
Shush…calm down, Baba. But…but...It.Was.Stunning.
There was a dreamy quality about it that warmed my heart but also made my toes curl in pure excitement and abandon. Ben’s hands, lips, and tongue soaked up all of Gavin’s worries. There’s a never ending well of strength and understanding imprinted in their minds and hearts. Ben is Gavin’s anchor who gives him everything he needs and at the same time Gavin can let go and fly to his secure place. Ben had him, will always have him; he’ll catch him when he falls. Of course that goes both ways. They converse from deep within, proof of a profound trust for each other that bears no superfluous action or words.
The ménage
The infamous threesome, which was based on 'ulterior motives', and was the source of much drama a couple months ago, was beautifully orchestrated and very hot. The scene claimed only a minor part of the entire plot. Honestly, I couldn't find anything terrible or 'wrong' about it. I know my Ben. He would never have done anything against Gavin's wishes. They talked about it, were on the same page and Ben set the limits which had been approved by Gavin. Among other things Ben said:
What actually led to the threesome was exciting and sexy. The dance floor action? One word: Amazeballs. I won't lie, the guy who joined in their bedroom action intrigued me from the get-go. And, to be honest, it was very clear who the third man would be when I first laid my eyes on him. Yet feeling the engaging build-up to, ultimately, getting in the mood for that threesome kept me on my toes. Physically, the third man was absolutely stunning and I can't wait to really get to know him. It looks like his background and job provide the basis to develop an interesting story. I think AJ is going to deliver yet another smashing hit. To say that I'm stoked to read his book would be a slight understatement.
The violence
Violence is always a sensitive subject matter and the impact is different for every reader. What probably made it worse here was the fact that a woman, and one of my all-time favorite secondary characters at that, was at the receiving end of said violence (and rape). Although she wasn't the only one who had to face such cruelty. I strongly advise you to read the author's note at the end of Consent regarding human trafficking and LGBT youth. It was tough to read at times. The violence, however, got worse towards the end of the story. There were a couple incredibly cruel scenes that made the first rape scene appear to be "less violent", probably due to the fact of the different levels of explicitness.
It fucking hurt
This^^^^^^^
I wanted to bawl my eyes out. It's so damn unfair. HUGE spoiler:
Minor quibbles
The leap in time between and the very sweet and very happy epilogue didn't add up for me. I was like 'How can you leave me with these deep and tormenting words and not show me
I felt that I missed out on and the sweet epilogue stood in stark contrast to the heavy subject matter which left me somewhat confused. All in all it wasn't enough; something was missing because the author
And last but not least I would like to say that Myah rocks. Since I met her in Power Exchange, I think I had a little girl crush on her. She's strong, loyal, open-minded, and courageous with a big fighter's heart and has earned her place on my shelf of memorable secondary characters.
Bottom line, Consent has it all: Sensual, intimate and hot erotic scenes that complement a riveting and emotional story. Very good writing and characterizations and a constant suspense that will keep you turning the pages until the end. Provided you can't be deterred by explicit violence and you are a fan of this series, chances are Consent will end up as a winner for you. Overall it's a tough but great addition to the Power Exchange series that will tug at your heartstrings. Keep the tissues at the ready. It's obvious that I can't wait to read the next installment. I'm positive that Mr. Green Eyes will be worth the wait.
Recommended read.
I'd like to advise you to read the books in order:
Power Exchange
Safeword
Consent
April 6, 2017
Update Sept 30th 2014: see end of review for print screen of A.J. Rose's response to my review.
DNF at 20%. Hard limit reached.
Which got nothing to do with speculation of Ben and Gavin bringing in a third.
I'm just sick to my stomach right now, and I don't want to feel this way.
I am so very sorry. Rose's writing is so good and it's been a pleasure reading up until now. Great suspense and mystery.
But still...
"Thunder"
Reason for DNF. Spoiler of a scene, not the mystery.
Don't click if you do not want to know. If you want to be prepared then click it, it doesn't spoil the plot.
Update Sept 30th 2014.
I'd like to point out, on the base of the history of this book, that I gave this book a fair chance in reading it. Marco Manganiello did too, but is still getting reaction to his rating. Addressing this issue in a conversation on Facebook, I'm copy-pasting A.J. Rose's reactions and responses to this and my review.
October 2, 2014
♥♥♥4.25 Heartwrenching Stars ♥♥♥
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
'I was stronger with Ben. Always had been. There would be people who didn't understand it, either the idea of two men together, or the power exchange we subscribed to. I didn't care what anyone else thought. The plain truth was I was a better person with him by my side.'
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Oh, dear. This book...this book made me feel all kinds of feels. This was brutal to read at times because of the events that took place, and to the characters it happened to. I hate where the story went, but loved how well it was written.
I absolute LOVED Safeword the previous book in this series. And while I enjoyed this one--well, as much as a book like this can be enjoyed--I didn't love it like the last. Still, I liked the fact that the author brought something like gay male human trafficking to light. I would be lying if I said I wasn't hooked to the book. But, there were definitely moments I cringed, and teared up because it was just too much. I'm only glad things weren't more descriptive, or else, I don't think I would have been able to handle it at all.
If you read the blurb, you know that Myah, my favourite female character, has disappeared. She had been kidnapped due to her involvement with a previous case when she was working in Chicago. Myah goes through a horrific ordeal. I felt so much pain for her I just wanted it all to end. The tone of this book was definitely a lot darker than the previous books in this series. It actually affected my enjoyment of the hot scenes a bit because of it. I couldn't enjoy the steam when I just read the torment Myah was going through. The only scene I was able to enjoy was the threesome scene, the others, not so much.
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
“I’ve seen the way you are together. He’s your protector, and you’re his purpose. He’s your glue and you’re his art.”
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Ben, I still love so. Freaking. Much. He did not disappoint me in this book. I love how selfless and caring he is with Gavin and with any person that means something to him. I loved that that chemistry between him and Gavin was still very much present. I loved the few moments of sweetness they shared. Ben is seriously one of the best book boyfriends.
I was hoping for a lot more in terms of the relationship part between Ben and Gavin. While we did get some--including a ménage scene that was pretty damn hot, which was one of the scenes I actually did like--I guess my inner romance nerd wanted more romance. I didn't get as much as I was hoping. It did get sweeter at the end but, it wasn't enough for me because time went by and I didn't get to experience it with them. However, there were a few moments here and there that completely melted my heart. And I loved seeing Ben and Gavin become so much more stronger as a couple after that ménage scene
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
“I love you. You’re my anchor. I don't know what I’d do without you.”
“I love you, too. And you don’t have to find out. Because I’ve got your back, Gavin. Always.”
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
The story line was a lot more solid in this book than those in the previous ones, but like I said, it was also much darker. I hated everything that happened to Myah. She totally didn't deserve to go through any of that. After going through that hell, I have to say I admire her for her strength and determination. She is one of the best female characters. Ever. The best part of the book for me was the Epilogue when things finally became a bit more happy. It was quite bittersweet to read. I was happy with their conclusion, I just wish it would have been more longer. Overall, despite it being a tough book to read, it was good and very well written. Now, I'm in dire need of a fluffy book to read.
***WARNING: Book contains scenes of violence and rape.***
March 16, 2016
mind officially fucked.
April 7, 2017
This story will test your boundaries...
... and not only yours, but those of Ben and Gavin, too. And I don't mean the boundaries of their relationship. I was more than grateful that their steadfast love is the one constant in this book that kept me from ending up as a total mess.
Their love is solid as a rock and they find their strength in each other, despite every curveball life throws their way. And this time it is challenging, dark and brutal, even more so than in the previous books.
AJ Rose bestows deeper insight on us, about what a human being is capable of to inflict pain on another person without any remorse and just for the own profit. There is a triggerwarning from the author at the beginning of this book and you should take it very seriously. This book is definitely not for everyone. For me, the most challenging part reading about everything that happened here was that the events this story deals with are not just fiction, but to some extent brutal reality. At the same time, though, the knowledge that this book deals with such a tender subject was exactly what kept me reading.
Believe me when I say that the author does not sugarcoat anything... She does not go easy on anyone. Not on Myah and the other victims. Not on Ben and Gavin. And not on the reader. There is no slow buildup, no lulling into a false sense of security at the beginning of the book. With one phone call in the middle of the night, right on the first page, I was thrown head first into the course of events that kept me on edge most of the time.
What ensues this call is the desperate search for Gavin's ex-partner and sister-in-law, as well as the hunt for the perps, with Ben, Gavin and Gavin's brother Cole left on their own and very little to go on.
While time is running out, evidence rather non-existent and most clues leading to a dead end, the nerves of Ben, Gavin and Cole are stretched too thin and all of them are pushed to their limits of how far they would go to save a life.
For me, Myah just rocks. I liked her from her first appearence and of course I had to know that she will be okay. No, this was by far not an easy read. We also get Myah's POV in this book and a few times I was pushed against the walls of my comfort zone due to the graphic descriptions, but to be honest this was not even the worst. It was the mind fuck. The implications. To know what happened and to read about the effects it had on everyone involved. There is no whitewash about the fact that life sometimes is not fair. And it was the fate of the boys, especially of Marshall, the boy we met in Safeword who already went through so much, that nearly broke me and I was a sobbing mess. So much so that I had to put my Kindle away and needed some time to calm down.
Despite the fact that the search for Myah takes on an important role in this story, the main focus was still laid on Ben and Gavin and I loved how far they had come in their love and trust in each other.
There is still some exploring of limits and new territories, though, and even if I normally love my couples being exclusive, there was one scene that made my hormones perform an excited lap dance: the threesome in this book was one of the hottest ever!
The intimacy about it just felt... right. To be honest, I really don't know if I should be relieved or disappointed that this will remain most certainly a one-time thing. I would love to read more about a certain someone in the future, because for me he was more than an interesting side character.
As hard as it was sometimes to keep reading, towards the end I could not put my Kindle down and the epilogue was just the icing on the cake. I'm more than curious about where the author will take us with Restraint, the next book in this series.
I admire the courage of AJ Rose to pick up such a sensitive topic and deal with it in a quite relentless way -although she was probably aware of the controversies that will be provoked- while at the same time, she always kept sight of the basics: the romance between Ben and Gavin.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
... and not only yours, but those of Ben and Gavin, too. And I don't mean the boundaries of their relationship. I was more than grateful that their steadfast love is the one constant in this book that kept me from ending up as a total mess.
"I love you," I said, mouthing the edge of his jaw. "You're my anchor. I don't know what I'd do without you."
"I love you, too. And you don't have to find out. Because I've got your back, Gavin. Always."
Their love is solid as a rock and they find their strength in each other, despite every curveball life throws their way. And this time it is challenging, dark and brutal, even more so than in the previous books.
AJ Rose bestows deeper insight on us, about what a human being is capable of to inflict pain on another person without any remorse and just for the own profit. There is a triggerwarning from the author at the beginning of this book and you should take it very seriously. This book is definitely not for everyone. For me, the most challenging part reading about everything that happened here was that the events this story deals with are not just fiction, but to some extent brutal reality. At the same time, though, the knowledge that this book deals with such a tender subject was exactly what kept me reading.
Believe me when I say that the author does not sugarcoat anything... She does not go easy on anyone. Not on Myah and the other victims. Not on Ben and Gavin. And not on the reader. There is no slow buildup, no lulling into a false sense of security at the beginning of the book. With one phone call in the middle of the night, right on the first page, I was thrown head first into the course of events that kept me on edge most of the time.
"It's Myah. She's missing."
What ensues this call is the desperate search for Gavin's ex-partner and sister-in-law, as well as the hunt for the perps, with Ben, Gavin and Gavin's brother Cole left on their own and very little to go on.
While time is running out, evidence rather non-existent and most clues leading to a dead end, the nerves of Ben, Gavin and Cole are stretched too thin and all of them are pushed to their limits of how far they would go to save a life.
"You are not a monster," he said, voice low and trembling. "You are a hero." I kissed the end of his nose. "So are you."
For me, Myah just rocks. I liked her from her first appearence and of course I had to know that she will be okay. No, this was by far not an easy read. We also get Myah's POV in this book and a few times I was pushed against the walls of my comfort zone due to the graphic descriptions, but to be honest this was not even the worst. It was the mind fuck. The implications. To know what happened and to read about the effects it had on everyone involved. There is no whitewash about the fact that life sometimes is not fair. And it was the fate of the boys, especially of Marshall, the boy we met in Safeword who already went through so much, that nearly broke me and I was a sobbing mess. So much so that I had to put my Kindle away and needed some time to calm down.
Despite the fact that the search for Myah takes on an important role in this story, the main focus was still laid on Ben and Gavin and I loved how far they had come in their love and trust in each other.
There is still some exploring of limits and new territories, though, and even if I normally love my couples being exclusive, there was one scene that made my hormones perform an excited lap dance: the threesome in this book was one of the hottest ever!
The intimacy about it just felt... right. To be honest, I really don't know if I should be relieved or disappointed that this will remain most certainly a one-time thing. I would love to read more about a certain someone in the future, because for me he was more than an interesting side character.
As hard as it was sometimes to keep reading, towards the end I could not put my Kindle down and the epilogue was just the icing on the cake. I'm more than curious about where the author will take us with Restraint, the next book in this series.
I admire the courage of AJ Rose to pick up such a sensitive topic and deal with it in a quite relentless way -although she was probably aware of the controversies that will be provoked- while at the same time, she always kept sight of the basics: the romance between Ben and Gavin.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
February 18, 2019
DNF @ 56%
Read
July 12, 2014Because I always rate books on a teaser and not the actual book itself, you know like a grown-up. And now I have to read the series.
June 27, 2024
When AJ asked us to trust her a few months ago, some of us did...this was EVERYTHING I'd waited for and more, and THANK YOU Myah for shouting in AJ's ear!! This is an amazing read, not for the faint of heart and certainly not for those who dislike dark and disturbing subject matters...human trafficking, rape, rent boys...look at my bookshelf labels readers. If you don't like the subject matter(s), then it's really quite simple..... DON'T read this book. To read a story when it contains things you know you hate is a pointless exercise AND a complete waste of YOUR valuable reading time!! I can only give it 5 stars I'm afraid, it blew Safeword and Power Exchange out of the water as far as I'm concerned!! What a breathtaking ending to this superb trilogy!
I loved the dedication at the beginning of the story, and as I said at the time, I don't care who writes the stories as long as they get written...I just wish there wasn't the need to have to hide who you are in the first place!!
I was upset at the death, although I did think that it was rather a tenuous link anyway, what's that line in Casablanca...'of all the bars in all the world etc...', that bit didn't work for me at all, but the last 20% or so of the story was just pure nail-biting tension. I was sooo glad that Myah got the chance to get her revenge on 'The Voice' and 'The Boss', not just for what had been done to herself, but for Brady and the other boys too. The detectives on the payroll of the trafficking ring were killed in true gangster style, richly deserved. Ben was a total badass [yay!!], Gavin was trying hard not to fall apart and be strong for everyone and Cole, well Cole was understandably angry, worried, anxious but sooo in love with Myah that any hardship he had to go through was worth it because he understood how she must be suffering. And the ending, well, happy dancing in this household at least.....
As far as the supposed 'ménage' scene is concerned...it wasn't... ménage according to the dictionary means household, ménage a trois means a sexual arrangement involving a married couple and the lover of one of them, and I take that to mean a permanent arrangement, NOT one night only. For those of you that have no idea what I'm waffling on about, the scene in question involves [I'm spoilering it for those that haven't read it]
I loved the dedication at the beginning of the story, and as I said at the time, I don't care who writes the stories as long as they get written...I just wish there wasn't the need to have to hide who you are in the first place!!
I was upset at the death, although I did think that it was rather a tenuous link anyway, what's that line in Casablanca...'of all the bars in all the world etc...', that bit didn't work for me at all, but the last 20% or so of the story was just pure nail-biting tension. I was sooo glad that Myah got the chance to get her revenge on 'The Voice' and 'The Boss', not just for what had been done to herself, but for Brady and the other boys too. The detectives on the payroll of the trafficking ring were killed in true gangster style, richly deserved. Ben was a total badass [yay!!], Gavin was trying hard not to fall apart and be strong for everyone and Cole, well Cole was understandably angry, worried, anxious but sooo in love with Myah that any hardship he had to go through was worth it because he understood how she must be suffering. And the ending, well, happy dancing in this household at least.....
As far as the supposed 'ménage' scene is concerned...it wasn't... ménage according to the dictionary means household, ménage a trois means a sexual arrangement involving a married couple and the lover of one of them, and I take that to mean a permanent arrangement, NOT one night only. For those of you that have no idea what I'm waffling on about, the scene in question involves [I'm spoilering it for those that haven't read it]
October 26, 2014
DARK ASTONISHING 5 LOVE YOU FOREVER STARS
Gahh...This book should be read as unspoiled as possible. A.J. Rose once again mesmerized me with her words. I fell in love with Ben and Gavin while reading Power Exchange and the love has grown deeper with each subsequent book. This book is not for the faint of heart. It deals with hard issues head on and doesn't mince words so read the blurb and decide if you up for this.
I once again adored Gavin and Ben. Ben, the Dom in their relationship, always took care of Gavin and made sure it didn't fall apart. *sigh* Although, you do get to see a little chip in Ben's armor, it made me love him even more. They are so beautiful together. Ben focuses Gavin and Gavin grounds Ben... amazing.
Overall I loved this book, yes dark and brutal but it has to be this way to be real. I was astonished... The writing is excellent and I got sucked in from the first page. Recommended to anyone who loves dark.
Ben and Gavin... I miss you already and I will never forget you!
Holded hands with Barbara and Isabel here
"He's your protector, and you're his purpose. He's your glue and you're his art".
Gahh...This book should be read as unspoiled as possible. A.J. Rose once again mesmerized me with her words. I fell in love with Ben and Gavin while reading Power Exchange and the love has grown deeper with each subsequent book. This book is not for the faint of heart. It deals with hard issues head on and doesn't mince words so read the blurb and decide if you up for this.
I once again adored Gavin and Ben. Ben, the Dom in their relationship, always took care of Gavin and made sure it didn't fall apart. *sigh* Although, you do get to see a little chip in Ben's armor, it made me love him even more. They are so beautiful together. Ben focuses Gavin and Gavin grounds Ben... amazing.
“I love you,” I said, mouthing the edge of his jaw. “You’re my anchor. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
“I love you, too. And you don’t have to find out. Because I’ve got your back, Gavin. Always."
“Tentatively, I lifted my eyes, meeting his.
“Please, Sir.”
“Please what?”
“Please make me fly."
“It was some of the most erotic play between us yet, and it required no toys, no planned scenes, no aftercare. I’d done a little research after the first time and learned it was the beginning stages of mind-fucking. If anyone was capable of taking advantage of my brain as a sex organ, it was Ben.”
"No kissing, I remembered from the lust-filled echo in my head of Ben’s first admission of wanting to tempt a third to play with us. When the guy tried to lower his lips to mine, I turned to the side, and his mouth landed on the curve of my jaw. A breath puffed against my sweat-prickled skin as Blond Guy chuckled, then mouthed down my neck. My cock perked up more, and when a hand landed on it, I didn’t know if it was Ben’s or our new friend’s."
Overall I loved this book, yes dark and brutal but it has to be this way to be real. I was astonished... The writing is excellent and I got sucked in from the first page. Recommended to anyone who loves dark.
Ben and Gavin... I miss you already and I will never forget you!
Holded hands with Barbara and Isabel here
October 25, 2014
Reading with Friends ... HERE!!
Diving in ... BEN and GAVIN`S world... again!
____________________________________________
5
Stars
Fantastic ending to a fantastic series!
An absolutely heart-breaking journey which Ben & Gavin and their loved ones went through, the story utterly and completely captivated me, is gut wrenching, and there are a lot of cold dread pooled in my belly moments, but a fantastic roller coaster, and all the Ben & Gavin moments were priceless and they are inked in my soul… for me this book is a heart stopping thriller but also the continuation of their love story , A.J. Rose knows how to balance between disgust and delight, alternate the horrible scenes with the beauty that is the relationship between Ben and Gavin.
I was wracked with nerves, but it was well worth it, especially for the Epilogue, the family love, and determination were also one of the best parts of the book!
Speaking of best parts, McKnight, Ben and Gavin *sighs*
Ben - I had no words, no idea how to convey the depth of my devotion to him, a magnificent character!
Highly recommended to lovers of dark!! the warning AJ added to the blurb please consider it!
Diving in ... BEN and GAVIN`S world... again!
____________________________________________
5
StarsFantastic ending to a fantastic series!
An absolutely heart-breaking journey which Ben & Gavin and their loved ones went through, the story utterly and completely captivated me, is gut wrenching, and there are a lot of cold dread pooled in my belly moments, but a fantastic roller coaster, and all the Ben & Gavin moments were priceless and they are inked in my soul… for me this book is a heart stopping thriller but also the continuation of their love story , A.J. Rose knows how to balance between disgust and delight, alternate the horrible scenes with the beauty that is the relationship between Ben and Gavin.
I was wracked with nerves, but it was well worth it, especially for the Epilogue, the family love, and determination were also one of the best parts of the book!
Speaking of best parts, McKnight, Ben and Gavin *sighs*
Ben - I had no words, no idea how to convey the depth of my devotion to him, a magnificent character!
Highly recommended to lovers of dark!! the warning AJ added to the blurb please consider it!
October 1, 2014
I really do enjoy a dark read and Consent is dark. If you haven't read the author's content warning, be aware that there are scenes of rape, abuse and graphic violence. This was not an easy book to read and will not be for everyone, especially if you had trouble with any of the violence or torture in the prior books.
The story starts right away with Myah's disappearance, and Gavin, Ben and Cole spend the rest of the book on that investigation. While that is going on we are given a very good picture of where Ben and Gavin stand and it is very clear how solid a couple they are. Their intimate scenes together were beautiful and each gives the other exactly what they need. There is no question that they are committed to each other and comfortable in their relationship, while still exploring and pushing the boundaries of Ben’s domination and Gavin’s submission. There was much speculation about a possible three-way, open relationship or cheating based on the teaser issued before the book was released.
While Gavin is doing his best to find Myah and keep it together for Cole, there is another side of Ben that is unleashed and there is no doubt he would do anything for the people he loves. Myah, who was always an outstanding character, is really put through hell in the book. If she wasn't already a favorite female character of mine, she certainly would have been after this story.
The story was well written and fast paced. I was wracked with nerves at points, but it was well worth it, especially for the Epilogue. There are a couple of new characters in the book that I was really taken with and hope that they will soon be whispering in A.J. Rose's ear for a story of their own.
The story starts right away with Myah's disappearance, and Gavin, Ben and Cole spend the rest of the book on that investigation. While that is going on we are given a very good picture of where Ben and Gavin stand and it is very clear how solid a couple they are. Their intimate scenes together were beautiful and each gives the other exactly what they need. There is no question that they are committed to each other and comfortable in their relationship, while still exploring and pushing the boundaries of Ben’s domination and Gavin’s submission. There was much speculation about a possible three-way, open relationship or cheating based on the teaser issued before the book was released.
While Gavin is doing his best to find Myah and keep it together for Cole, there is another side of Ben that is unleashed and there is no doubt he would do anything for the people he loves. Myah, who was always an outstanding character, is really put through hell in the book. If she wasn't already a favorite female character of mine, she certainly would have been after this story.
The story was well written and fast paced. I was wracked with nerves at points, but it was well worth it, especially for the Epilogue. There are a couple of new characters in the book that I was really taken with and hope that they will soon be whispering in A.J. Rose's ear for a story of their own.
Read
October 21, 2014DNF at 20% - every crime in each book in this series involves brutal rape, and the third time round was too much for me. A pity since I liked the MCs. YMMV.
to-read-next-in-series
November 16, 2014I'm so excited for this book, I may have peed a little when it came up in my feed. :P
March 11, 2023
Genera: M/M Romance/BDSM/Mystery/ (very graphic torture)
4★
Trigger Warning: & Content Warning: contains scenes of rape and graphic violence and diffidently will not be suitable for sensitive readers. Discretion is strongly advised.
"Cole, what’s wrong?" Former detective Gavin DeGrassi likes his new life and his job as a university professor, molding the minds of the next generation of law enforcement. It keeps him in the field he loves, but out of the media and out of the danger he seems to draw. He’s settled and happy with his partner and Dom, Ben Haverson. "It’s Myah." Until a middle of the night phone call from his brother, Cole, whose desperation and fear yank him back into the world of criminals and countdowns. Only this time, the stakes are much higher. "She’s missing". Detective Myah Hayes, Gavin’s sister-in-law and former partner, has a past of her own, one that has returned to claim her. With only their instincts and the help of a rogue CSI, Gavin, Ben, and Cole will do whatever it takes to find Myah, following a flimsy trail of evidence to Chicago, where all is not what it seems—dirty cops, moral pimps, and a nest of snakes who call themselves businessmen. They’re on a collision course with the worst of humanity, and more than Myah’s life is caught in the vortex. Can they find her, and if they do, will there be anything left to save?
I really do try to read series in order...believe it or not:) Especially ones like Power Exchange that I love the main characters and try to follow their lives and their growing relationship as it happens. In some ways I was so glad that I accidently read Restraint and Consent out of order because I'm not sure if I could have finished Consent if I didn't know how things were going to work out for Gavin and Ben in Restraint. I read a lot of books where terrible things happen to good people, but honestly, I have NEVER read anything that bothered me on so many levels like this one did. The brutality, viciousness and level of evil that these people were capable of inflicting on innocent human beings was so way, way, way over the top and outside the boundaries of decency and most people's comfort levels, that you desperately wanted to believe that this is only fiction... that "this just can't happen".... but after reading the info at the back of the book...I learned that it CAN, and it DOES. I even found myself holding my breath and hoping that Gavin and Ben would come out of this nightmare whole even though I knew the answer to that already. As I said, I am so glad that I did read these out of order. This one is not in any way for the faint of heart or the weak of stomach.
4★
Trigger Warning: & Content Warning: contains scenes of rape and graphic violence and diffidently will not be suitable for sensitive readers. Discretion is strongly advised.
"Cole, what’s wrong?" Former detective Gavin DeGrassi likes his new life and his job as a university professor, molding the minds of the next generation of law enforcement. It keeps him in the field he loves, but out of the media and out of the danger he seems to draw. He’s settled and happy with his partner and Dom, Ben Haverson. "It’s Myah." Until a middle of the night phone call from his brother, Cole, whose desperation and fear yank him back into the world of criminals and countdowns. Only this time, the stakes are much higher. "She’s missing". Detective Myah Hayes, Gavin’s sister-in-law and former partner, has a past of her own, one that has returned to claim her. With only their instincts and the help of a rogue CSI, Gavin, Ben, and Cole will do whatever it takes to find Myah, following a flimsy trail of evidence to Chicago, where all is not what it seems—dirty cops, moral pimps, and a nest of snakes who call themselves businessmen. They’re on a collision course with the worst of humanity, and more than Myah’s life is caught in the vortex. Can they find her, and if they do, will there be anything left to save?
I really do try to read series in order...believe it or not:) Especially ones like Power Exchange that I love the main characters and try to follow their lives and their growing relationship as it happens. In some ways I was so glad that I accidently read Restraint and Consent out of order because I'm not sure if I could have finished Consent if I didn't know how things were going to work out for Gavin and Ben in Restraint. I read a lot of books where terrible things happen to good people, but honestly, I have NEVER read anything that bothered me on so many levels like this one did. The brutality, viciousness and level of evil that these people were capable of inflicting on innocent human beings was so way, way, way over the top and outside the boundaries of decency and most people's comfort levels, that you desperately wanted to believe that this is only fiction... that "this just can't happen".... but after reading the info at the back of the book...I learned that it CAN, and it DOES. I even found myself holding my breath and hoping that Gavin and Ben would come out of this nightmare whole even though I knew the answer to that already. As I said, I am so glad that I did read these out of order. This one is not in any way for the faint of heart or the weak of stomach.
October 24, 2014
This is not an easy book to review! I got to the end quite speechless and my head was spinning with so many emotions!
Consent is dark, is disturbing, and for those who don't like to read about violence, don't even start this book. Its content is heavy and revolting...
But for those like me, who like dark-erotica, and mostly can't get enough of Ben, don't miss it!
Ben and Gavin are one of my favorite couples! Their relationship is based on trust, unconditional trust. One is the pillar of the other, they have the perfect chemistry, and their love is absolutely beautiful!
"“I love you,” I said, mouthing the edge of his jaw. “You’re my anchor. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
“I love you, too. And you don’t have to find out. Because I’ve got your back, Gavin. Always.”"
In this book are also some of the best sex scenes that I've read so far: not only they are hot, but there is such eroticism and sensuality, that I felt completely overwhelmed!
And McKnight... Breathtaking!!!
I also have to talk about Myah... Myah is a force of nature. What she endure in this book is absolutely terrifying! And all those boys... no one should be treated like that, no one should be forced to live like that... There are no words to describe what I felt while reading those scenes!
Before starting this book I've read some reviews, so I knew this wouldn't be easy. Some readers couldn't stand the violence... I honestly can say that violence in books don't scare me... the reality that this book talks about does scare me, a lot... Human trafficking is real, sexual slavery is also real, and so is torture and rape... these are really terrifying realities!
A.J. Rose is a magnificent writer. This series is fabulous, her characters amazing and this particular book is astonishing... The ending is beautiful and emotional!
One complaint: I wish there was more Ben & Gavin, and less Myah & Colt;
One request: McKnight's book would be welcome! He is magnetic!
This was a fabulous BR!
Consent is dark, is disturbing, and for those who don't like to read about violence, don't even start this book. Its content is heavy and revolting...
But for those like me, who like dark-erotica, and mostly can't get enough of Ben, don't miss it!
Ben and Gavin are one of my favorite couples! Their relationship is based on trust, unconditional trust. One is the pillar of the other, they have the perfect chemistry, and their love is absolutely beautiful!
"“I love you,” I said, mouthing the edge of his jaw. “You’re my anchor. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
“I love you, too. And you don’t have to find out. Because I’ve got your back, Gavin. Always.”"
In this book are also some of the best sex scenes that I've read so far: not only they are hot, but there is such eroticism and sensuality, that I felt completely overwhelmed!
And McKnight... Breathtaking!!!
I also have to talk about Myah... Myah is a force of nature. What she endure in this book is absolutely terrifying! And all those boys... no one should be treated like that, no one should be forced to live like that... There are no words to describe what I felt while reading those scenes!
Before starting this book I've read some reviews, so I knew this wouldn't be easy. Some readers couldn't stand the violence... I honestly can say that violence in books don't scare me... the reality that this book talks about does scare me, a lot... Human trafficking is real, sexual slavery is also real, and so is torture and rape... these are really terrifying realities!
A.J. Rose is a magnificent writer. This series is fabulous, her characters amazing and this particular book is astonishing... The ending is beautiful and emotional!
One complaint: I wish there was more Ben & Gavin, and less Myah & Colt;
One request: McKnight's book would be welcome! He is magnetic!
This was a fabulous BR!
March 18, 2019
This book is not for the faint of heart. It's raw, pulsing with pain and anguish, intense and very angry. I was on the edge from the page 1. The investigation itself is scrupulous, bordering on illegal and extremely emotional. Tempers fly high while in pursuit of any lead that might get them closer to finding Myah. The strain of responsibility for making things right for his baby brother Cole, worry for Myah almost burn Gavin out, but Ben is there for him as his partner and his Dom. They grow closer, discover new limits and strengthen their commitment to each other.
Parallel to the investigation Myah tells the story of her captivity, the horrors that are perpetrated on those who have no one to stand up for them. Her accounting is painful to read. It's very explicit and detailed. While Ben, Gavin and Cole untangle the web of lies that forced her out of Chicago three years ago, Myah is trying to cope and come to terms with all that is forced on her. She is as fierce as a lioness. In the end she lives - a woman, a mother, a caregiver, a survivor.
I loved this book even though it was at times difficult to read. It's a testament to human strength and will to survive. The ending is romantic, happy yet a little bittersweet. Even after a passage of time the wounds are not completely healed. But Degrassi family takes care of their own, takes people into their fold and makes them their own. Wonderful intense read! I highly recommend it!
Parallel to the investigation Myah tells the story of her captivity, the horrors that are perpetrated on those who have no one to stand up for them. Her accounting is painful to read. It's very explicit and detailed. While Ben, Gavin and Cole untangle the web of lies that forced her out of Chicago three years ago, Myah is trying to cope and come to terms with all that is forced on her. She is as fierce as a lioness. In the end she lives - a woman, a mother, a caregiver, a survivor.
I loved this book even though it was at times difficult to read. It's a testament to human strength and will to survive. The ending is romantic, happy yet a little bittersweet. Even after a passage of time the wounds are not completely healed. But Degrassi family takes care of their own, takes people into their fold and makes them their own. Wonderful intense read! I highly recommend it!
March 7, 2015
Disappointing :(
This is not at all what I had hoped for a farewell from Ben & Gavin. I think they've been cheated out of the story/ending they deserved.
All the Ben & Gavin moments were priceless and they will hold a special place in my heart.
Had this story been about Myah & Cole (in their own series) it would have been great... Hell, even the was more about Myah.
I would love to see McKnight get a story of some sort tho.
This is not at all what I had hoped for a farewell from Ben & Gavin. I think they've been cheated out of the story/ending they deserved.
All the Ben & Gavin moments were priceless and they will hold a special place in my heart.
Had this story been about Myah & Cole (in their own series) it would have been great... Hell, even the was more about Myah.
I would love to see McKnight get a story of some sort tho.
April 28, 2018
I read the first two books years ago and really enjoyed them. I was wondering if after all this time I would still like this series. Spoiler alert: I don't. Not at all. (which sucks donkey balls cuz I have to review book four).
I found pretty much everything about this book ridiculous. The plot made no sense. You have to suspend great big chunks of reality to get on board with the plot and Ben/Gavin/Cole's subsequent investigation.
The violence was gratuitous and unnecessary. I read a lot of murder mysteries and psychological suspense books so I'm not easily squicked out on violent scenes but there were a ton here and they did not add to the story at all. It felt like they were there only for the shock value. A little goes a long way and the author would have been wise to remember this old adage. There's also on page rape of a young teenager/child which was not in the warning and was complete and total fuckery imo. NO ON PAGE RAPE SCENES OF CHILDREN FFS!
Ben and Gavin (mostly Gavin) got on my nerves. Their bdsm in this book was used as a coping mechanism and they'd be in the middle of their investigation, trying to solve the crime, and suddenly Gavin couldn't function without getting his ass smacked a bit. *eye roll* You are adults. You have a job to do. You don't get to just stop working and randomly get fucked. (I wish that's how jobs went but alas no)
They decide a local pimp is a hot and sleep with him. I had no problem with the threesome. It was smoking hot and hands down the best part of the book, but he's a pimp. He prostitutes children. I don't care how many ways you try to justify that (he's a good guy, he cares about his whores) he's not a good guy. Especially in a series that has revolved around them saving teens forced to prostitute themselves. I just couldn't understand the justification here. Who does that? (besides Gavin and Ben that is)
It was long and drawn out and I skimmed pages cuz it was taking forever to get to the end. Page after page of the same scenes. Gavin and Cole must have had the same darned argument 6-7 times.
And then.......we've suffered through boring, we've suffered through violence, we've suffered through bad plot and we get to the epilogue...... It's their wedding. Surely that will be good right? Wrong. We don't see the wedding. It's not on page. There's no love or romance or sweet times. We see a dance for Myra and the pimp dancing w/the teen rape victim. (so romantic.....NOT)
I feel like the author could have taken out a few of the rape scenes and a bunch of the boring arguments to give us the wedding. Or just written a longer book, cuz goodness knows the rest was long and rambling.
I'm not sure why I'm giving this two stars instead of one. The more I type in this review the more I realize how much I disliked this. Let's split the difference and make this a 1.5 star.
I found pretty much everything about this book ridiculous. The plot made no sense. You have to suspend great big chunks of reality to get on board with the plot and Ben/Gavin/Cole's subsequent investigation.
The violence was gratuitous and unnecessary. I read a lot of murder mysteries and psychological suspense books so I'm not easily squicked out on violent scenes but there were a ton here and they did not add to the story at all. It felt like they were there only for the shock value. A little goes a long way and the author would have been wise to remember this old adage. There's also on page rape of a young teenager/child which was not in the warning and was complete and total fuckery imo. NO ON PAGE RAPE SCENES OF CHILDREN FFS!
Ben and Gavin (mostly Gavin) got on my nerves. Their bdsm in this book was used as a coping mechanism and they'd be in the middle of their investigation, trying to solve the crime, and suddenly Gavin couldn't function without getting his ass smacked a bit. *eye roll* You are adults. You have a job to do. You don't get to just stop working and randomly get fucked. (I wish that's how jobs went but alas no)
They decide a local pimp is a hot and sleep with him. I had no problem with the threesome. It was smoking hot and hands down the best part of the book, but he's a pimp. He prostitutes children. I don't care how many ways you try to justify that (he's a good guy, he cares about his whores) he's not a good guy. Especially in a series that has revolved around them saving teens forced to prostitute themselves. I just couldn't understand the justification here. Who does that? (besides Gavin and Ben that is)
It was long and drawn out and I skimmed pages cuz it was taking forever to get to the end. Page after page of the same scenes. Gavin and Cole must have had the same darned argument 6-7 times.
And then.......we've suffered through boring, we've suffered through violence, we've suffered through bad plot and we get to the epilogue...... It's their wedding. Surely that will be good right? Wrong. We don't see the wedding. It's not on page. There's no love or romance or sweet times. We see a dance for Myra and the pimp dancing w/the teen rape victim. (so romantic.....NOT)
I feel like the author could have taken out a few of the rape scenes and a bunch of the boring arguments to give us the wedding. Or just written a longer book, cuz goodness knows the rest was long and rambling.
I'm not sure why I'm giving this two stars instead of one. The more I type in this review the more I realize how much I disliked this. Let's split the difference and make this a 1.5 star.
July 12, 2017
Rating: 3.5* of five
I'll get back to this later today.
**LATER TODAY**
I will keep this short and simple: Author Rose, you have disappointed me. Chapter 25 was unnecessary and prurient, but my disappointment stems from the cheap and shoddy trick it represents on your delighted and dedicated readers. I am most definitely one of them.
I intend this as a compliment: There is no way I would ever have known from the way you wrote Gavin and Ben's relationship what gender you are IRL. On balance I would've expected you to be male, given the startling depth of your characters's physiological responses and the psychology before and behind them. But truly the way you've written the men's characters is simply good writing, something either gender can create if a given level of talent is present.
That makes the sting of being let down so forcefully by the torture porn in chapter 25 so much worse. It made the unpleasant shock of Marshall's death much less effective. And Myah's later torture after the failed escape attempt was also rendered less effective as the horrifying gut-punch it truly was.
Had I edited this book, I would've made the following observation: This number of words would be better spent throughout the book humanizing Ben, Cole, and the elder DeGrassis via phone calls or something.
I will, of course, rush right out to buy any eventual fourth entry in this series because the deep and velvety pleasure of seeing myself (idealized, of course) in Ben is too satisfying to deny myself. But I will pick the book up with a heretofore absent wariness.
That hurts like fuck to say.
I'll get back to this later today.
**LATER TODAY**
I will keep this short and simple: Author Rose, you have disappointed me. Chapter 25 was unnecessary and prurient, but my disappointment stems from the cheap and shoddy trick it represents on your delighted and dedicated readers. I am most definitely one of them.
I intend this as a compliment: There is no way I would ever have known from the way you wrote Gavin and Ben's relationship what gender you are IRL. On balance I would've expected you to be male, given the startling depth of your characters's physiological responses and the psychology before and behind them. But truly the way you've written the men's characters is simply good writing, something either gender can create if a given level of talent is present.
That makes the sting of being let down so forcefully by the torture porn in chapter 25 so much worse. It made the unpleasant shock of Marshall's death much less effective. And Myah's later torture after the failed escape attempt was also rendered less effective as the horrifying gut-punch it truly was.
Had I edited this book, I would've made the following observation: This number of words would be better spent throughout the book humanizing Ben, Cole, and the elder DeGrassis via phone calls or something.
I will, of course, rush right out to buy any eventual fourth entry in this series because the deep and velvety pleasure of seeing myself (idealized, of course) in Ben is too satisfying to deny myself. But I will pick the book up with a heretofore absent wariness.
That hurts like fuck to say.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2014
It's done. Complete, finished, over. What a roller coaster of emotions. Can’t even sum it up what I felt while reading: Hurt, anger, disgust, hope, and love. It was definitely challenging and tough to read, it pushed my boundaries more than a few times but it was worth every single angry shout.
I loved Power Exchange and Safeword and I was sure the third book couldn’t be any better.
I.Was.So.Wrong!
Consent is one hell of an ending to a fantastic series, the perfect conclusion to a gut wrenching, fantastic roller coaster with two of my favourite guys. No matter what Gavin and Ben went through, their love rose above every-fucking-thing.
It made me cry, shout, squirm on the edge of my seat. I was angry, so angry… and hurt, hopeful, crushed, not believing, and finally, I got my wonderful, sappy ending.
As for the threesome scene… I won’t call it Ménage à trois, because the term means a sexual relationship between three people. The scene happening here is a one time threesome thing with the purpose to get informations, informations which finally get the ball rolling!
Oh, like Gavin and Ben I liked Mac just fine but I loved more that our guys remained true to themselves.
“There was so much to say, much to digest, but in that moment, his words and body, and most of all, his eyes, told me everything I needed to know. We could add a third to our bed, but never to our hearts. We belonged to each other.”
Highly recommended to lovers of dark, disturbing and thrilling books with a little kink on the side.
Before reading Consent please consider the warning AJ added to the blurb. It’s as intense as it sounds, don’t read it if you can’t cope with graphic violence, rape and torture.
August 8, 2015
As predicted, I have a massive book hangover after finishing Consent. This was a very intense read and definitely not an easy one. In fact, there were parts that made my stomach clench so much I can still feel it. I can see why AJ relented to her muse and wrote this, because I am sure she needed to get it out of her head. Wow.
The warning that is posted at the beginning of the blurb is not kidding. So pay attention if such things are triggers for you. There are explicit rape scenes here and a whole lot of graphic violence. Those parts were difficult to get through, I won't lie. I'm glad AJ didn't gloss over them, however, because they really underlined the urgency of finding Myah and uncovering the corruption and freeing the boys being sold. It. Was. Brutal. So, if that is a hard limit or a trigger for you, you probably don't want to read this book. Though the previous two books in this series dealt with some dark subject matter, I found this one even more intense. And definitely more difficult to get through pieces of it. I had to persevere, though. I had to know that everything turns out as ok as it can, under the circumstances.
Consent starts out with a middle of the night phone call from Cole, Gavin's younger brother, calling to tell Gavin that Myah was missing. Not a phone call anyone wants to make or receive about a loved one. Yesterday their lives are going on their merry way and today everything is just so wrong. I don't even want to have to imagine what going through something like that must be like.
Through it all, we see just how strong a bond that Ben and Gavin have. It's good to see just how far they've come after their own trauma with the Breath Play Killer in the first book, Power Exchange. As I recall, throughout the second book, Safeword, Gavin is having a massively hard time coping with his trauma. He has problems being touched and many, if not most forms of BDSM play that he and Ben had practiced are now off limits. Their resulting demons really tests their relationship, and though they definitely had more work to do by the end, they really came a long way. By the time Consent starts, Ben and Gavin have made a lot of progress. They are solid.
We see Ben and Gavin explore some new things, like bringing in a third, which was one of the hottest things I've read in a while. And even though it was a one-time thing, playing out a fantasy, it felt very intimate. I don't see Ben and Gavin indulging like this, too often. They may never again, actually, even though they both really enjoyed it and it was really quite beautiful.
Also, I love how Ben only refers to Gavin as 'boy' in certain circumstances - when he's being a brat, or gets an attitude, or forgets his place during a scene. Otherwise, Ben calls him Gavin. Gavin is definitely Ben's boy, but he is so much more than that, too. And Ben knows when, outside a scene, Gavin needs him to exert his Dom-ness. They are so in sync it is scary at times. And so so beautiful. Ben focuses Gavin and Gavin grounds Ben.
I can't really talk to much about the meat of this story because, being a suspense story, even little things could give away important pieces. While the plot centers around Myah being kidnapped and we see her ordeal in vivid technicolor with surround sound, the story is still about Ben and Gavin and family and being willing to do anything to save the people you love. That's a beautiful thing.
The warning that is posted at the beginning of the blurb is not kidding. So pay attention if such things are triggers for you. There are explicit rape scenes here and a whole lot of graphic violence. Those parts were difficult to get through, I won't lie. I'm glad AJ didn't gloss over them, however, because they really underlined the urgency of finding Myah and uncovering the corruption and freeing the boys being sold. It. Was. Brutal. So, if that is a hard limit or a trigger for you, you probably don't want to read this book. Though the previous two books in this series dealt with some dark subject matter, I found this one even more intense. And definitely more difficult to get through pieces of it. I had to persevere, though. I had to know that everything turns out as ok as it can, under the circumstances.
Consent starts out with a middle of the night phone call from Cole, Gavin's younger brother, calling to tell Gavin that Myah was missing. Not a phone call anyone wants to make or receive about a loved one. Yesterday their lives are going on their merry way and today everything is just so wrong. I don't even want to have to imagine what going through something like that must be like.
He's your protector, and you're his purpose. He's your glue and you're his art.
Through it all, we see just how strong a bond that Ben and Gavin have. It's good to see just how far they've come after their own trauma with the Breath Play Killer in the first book, Power Exchange. As I recall, throughout the second book, Safeword, Gavin is having a massively hard time coping with his trauma. He has problems being touched and many, if not most forms of BDSM play that he and Ben had practiced are now off limits. Their resulting demons really tests their relationship, and though they definitely had more work to do by the end, they really came a long way. By the time Consent starts, Ben and Gavin have made a lot of progress. They are solid.
We see Ben and Gavin explore some new things, like bringing in a third, which was one of the hottest things I've read in a while. And even though it was a one-time thing, playing out a fantasy, it felt very intimate. I don't see Ben and Gavin indulging like this, too often. They may never again, actually, even though they both really enjoyed it and it was really quite beautiful.
Also, I love how Ben only refers to Gavin as 'boy' in certain circumstances - when he's being a brat, or gets an attitude, or forgets his place during a scene. Otherwise, Ben calls him Gavin. Gavin is definitely Ben's boy, but he is so much more than that, too. And Ben knows when, outside a scene, Gavin needs him to exert his Dom-ness. They are so in sync it is scary at times. And so so beautiful. Ben focuses Gavin and Gavin grounds Ben.
I can't really talk to much about the meat of this story because, being a suspense story, even little things could give away important pieces. While the plot centers around Myah being kidnapped and we see her ordeal in vivid technicolor with surround sound, the story is still about Ben and Gavin and family and being willing to do anything to save the people you love. That's a beautiful thing.
November 18, 2014
after reading:
I'm just really disappointed. I truly love this series but this last one was such a let down.
First things first I feared the 3-way and did not want the 3-way but after reading I didn't mind it at all! It was written in a way that made Ben and Gavin seem so much closer after. And really makes me want McKnight to find a Dom who will respect him and treat him like Ben respects and treats Gavin. I have such a soft spot for him I hope he finds the right guy or something awesome happens for him. I loved that they were able to give him that gift of what real submission and domination felt like.
**Side note listen to the authors note for this book. Because it contains a lot of rape and it is pretty graphic. It doesn't go into extreme detail but it is enough.**
That being said I felt that there was just a gratuitous amount of rape in this book. I understand that that is the life of but I think it just went overboard with the amount of times and detail. And seriously the author couldn't leave poor
Nothing really happened. Besides staying in a hotel and looking for Myah. I was expecting confrontation and maybe a little something with her old partners but no. It was really just boring.
Ben, Gavin, and Cole literally did nothing but sit around trying to piece together very boring clues while Myah was being raped repeatedly and drugged. That is the book in a nutshell.
We didn't get to hear about Gavin's job as a professor or how his and Bens' lives were after retiring from being a cop. Not even a snippet of Myah and Coles' wedding.
It was a lot of alternating chapters of what was happening with Myah and what was happening with the guys. Half the time I would skim the Myah chapters because it was either boring or just a lot of rape. And the whole reason why they took Myah was just so far fetched for me that it made me dislike those chapters that much more.
The ending was so abrupt that when I read the next page and it was the epilogue I thought I was missing a chapter or something. And even the epilogue was boring as fuck. Don't get me wrong I loved that they got married but there was like a page dedicated to the wedding and the rest was just filler to get to the ending.
I'm just really disappointed and feel that 5.99 for this book is asking for way too much for the amount of nothing you get. It's a shame that the author felt it necessary to extend this into a trilogy because the first 2 were amazing and this was just shit in comparison.
What I did really enjoy was how much hotter and sort of powerful Ben was in this book. I didn't think it was possible for me to love him more than I already did but apparently I was proved wrong.
before reading
Normally with this series there would be no "maybe" but that teaser makes me nervous. I'm not a fan of threesomes in well established relationships. Hopefully I'll get over this but I'm hesitant.
I'm just really disappointed. I truly love this series but this last one was such a let down.
First things first I feared the 3-way and did not want the 3-way but after reading I didn't mind it at all! It was written in a way that made Ben and Gavin seem so much closer after. And really makes me want McKnight to find a Dom who will respect him and treat him like Ben respects and treats Gavin. I have such a soft spot for him I hope he finds the right guy or something awesome happens for him. I loved that they were able to give him that gift of what real submission and domination felt like.
**Side note listen to the authors note for this book. Because it contains a lot of rape and it is pretty graphic. It doesn't go into extreme detail but it is enough.**
That being said I felt that there was just a gratuitous amount of rape in this book. I understand that that is the life of but I think it just went overboard with the amount of times and detail. And seriously the author couldn't leave poor
Nothing really happened. Besides staying in a hotel and looking for Myah. I was expecting confrontation and maybe a little something with her old partners but no. It was really just boring.
Ben, Gavin, and Cole literally did nothing but sit around trying to piece together very boring clues while Myah was being raped repeatedly and drugged. That is the book in a nutshell.
We didn't get to hear about Gavin's job as a professor or how his and Bens' lives were after retiring from being a cop. Not even a snippet of Myah and Coles' wedding.
It was a lot of alternating chapters of what was happening with Myah and what was happening with the guys. Half the time I would skim the Myah chapters because it was either boring or just a lot of rape. And the whole reason why they took Myah was just so far fetched for me that it made me dislike those chapters that much more.
The ending was so abrupt that when I read the next page and it was the epilogue I thought I was missing a chapter or something. And even the epilogue was boring as fuck. Don't get me wrong I loved that they got married but there was like a page dedicated to the wedding and the rest was just filler to get to the ending.
I'm just really disappointed and feel that 5.99 for this book is asking for way too much for the amount of nothing you get. It's a shame that the author felt it necessary to extend this into a trilogy because the first 2 were amazing and this was just shit in comparison.
What I did really enjoy was how much hotter and sort of powerful Ben was in this book. I didn't think it was possible for me to love him more than I already did but apparently I was proved wrong.
before reading
Normally with this series there would be no "maybe" but that teaser makes me nervous. I'm not a fan of threesomes in well established relationships. Hopefully I'll get over this but I'm hesitant.
Want to read
July 25, 2014Just read the blurb.
OH PLEASE NOT MYAH!!!
Mr. Rose you're going to kill me again! I knew it. I can bet on that.
OH PLEASE NOT MYAH!!!
Mr. Rose you're going to kill me again! I knew it. I can bet on that.
June 29, 2024
✰ 2.5 stars ✰
“You don’t have to martyr yourself. If you need to break, you break. I will catch you.”
“I know you will. But tell me something, Sir. When do you get to break? When does the weight of me plus the world get to be too much for you?”
Trigger Warning
A few weeks ago, an innocent camel walked upon property that he was not supposed to have entered. In a cruel and spiteful act of vengeance and brutality, the landowner and his servants captured the animal that cannot speak for himself and cut off his leg.
I've never felt as disgusted and ashamed of humanity as I was when I read that news - knowing that a country like mine, where not always retribution is in order, that no one will be punished for this horrific atrocity that was committed. No one will pay for their sins - no one will feel that poor victim's pain - no one can give back to him what was viciously stolen for him. Our government is working on a prosthetic replacement, but who gave them the right to treat a helpless creature in such a despicable and unspeakable manner?
An anger boiled inside of me that made me choke out that if punishment was given out in the same way in which the terrible violation in which it was committed - an eye for an eye - a leg for a leg - then people would think twice about preying on those who can't protect themselves.
Please keep this in mind, as I lay out my frustrations and disappointment of this installment, while still reflecting how upsetting such stories can make me feel.
~*~*~*~
Former detective Gavin has to be either the most clueless police officer on the force, or the luckiest guy ever, for how the entire story-line is devoted to him trying to piece the clues together, only for everything to ever so conveniently fall into his lap, without even having to lift a finger. 😮💨 And yet, I don't blame him completely. I feel that the writer has a responsibility to make his efforts pay off successfully, rather than running out of steam or prolonging the story long enough - only for it to finally culminate when things have simply gone on for too long.
“That he had me and wouldn’t let me go.
“Break, Gavin. It’s okay to break, if you let me put you together again.”
And okay, I'm going to be forgiving, because in real life - how rare is it that in such situations, one is able to find missing victims or crack down a sex trafficking ring and come out unscathed or even be able to track down the culprits? 😔 The race against the clock is a taxing, if not grueling one, which weighs heavily as its own conflict, especially when it involves those emotionally invested in it. Cole's desperation and anguish in finding his wife was painful and palpable; the fear that claws at you when your loved one is missing and you don't know if they're alive or dead - what horrors are being inflicted on her, or what she is witnessing - there are no words. So yes, in a way, Gavin taking that long to rescue his brother's wife and former partner, Mia, only for Ben to step up and make the rescue for him - does make sense. 🥺
Still, it annoyed me of how it didn't feel like a satisfying end - mainly, again, because after all that trauma that she had to endure, the author once again does a time-jump of an epilogue, where her recovery is glossed over, and we speed our way into a happy conclusion... Yes, okay, so after all that traumatic horror and painful angst, would the reader want to subdue itself to more heaviness? But, it would have made it feel more believable and rewarding. I get that there is a final book in this series, but it just leaves me feeling so deflated that if such scenes would be addressed, it would only appear in the next book, instead. Just give it to me here! It wouldn't be so hard to spare a few more chapters to a reunion - a talk - a next step - nada. A very hasty and abrupt epilogue that left me wondering why all the tension deflated faster than a balloon losing its air.
“Even if you never say actual words,” I murmured. “I can always be what you need, if only you let me in.”
Clearly, I am very conflicted on my thoughts on this series. And I have to wonder how much of BDSM still really plays a part in Ben and Gavin's relationship, or have they stepped beyond the role of Dom and Sub? Ben and Gavin's relationship has reached that stage where they are comfortable with each other and are willing to explore other facets of their dynamic, bringing satisfaction and pleasure to both of them. 🥲 'Ben had me. Ben always had me, and we both knew it.' It peeved me slightly that they had to resort to a kink session, in order for them to gain some crucial information, but I think this is where my slight appreciation of the title is played out. Not only for these scenes, in which you have to take into account that winning the favor of the moral pimp who is in control of these young boys who are disappearing and landing in the wrong hands - all for the sake of getting crucial information that would help them get closer to Myah's whereabouts. A threesome, which is dominated heavily by the permission and consent of those involved and to respect the boundaries that are laid out. 🙆🏻♀️
And it is that same violation that we have to bear witness to with Myah - a different shift in the writing style of the author, in which we get her side of her story - of her abduction and the atrocities that she has to witness - the fear she has for the other young boys, taken alongside her - the anger of her past involvement in trying to help them coming back with a cruel vengeance that hurts and violates her. 😟 'Rage like none she’d ever known bubbled beneath her entire surface, and without an outlet, she feared she’d explode.' I'm not gonna lie - there's no sugarcoating how hard it was to read those scenes - the author takes us to the seedy floors of places I would want to protect everyone from. 💔💔 Subjugating those to commit sexual acts without their consent is the basis of this story that made me sick to my stomach. The inability to do anything about it, except for in fiction, where some people pay the price for the crimes they've committed - it is a small satisfaction, but the journey to get there - the trauma inflicted upon Myah - what she witnessed - endured - her helplessness to save those under her care, despite her efforts... 😞
And that's why my anger and hopeless frustration at how people in power find it so easy to abuse others - without any care for their well-being, treating them like worthless pieces of entertainment for their own sick twisted pleasure. It's bad enough reading such heavy topics, but knowing that this brutality and horrors exist in the real-life world - that when I heard the horrible news about the camel, I felt sick to my stomach. 😢 And I wished with such vengeance that if people were punished in the same way - if these men, who abuse these young boys - received the same treatment that was done unto those souls without their consent - I would not bat an eye. 🤬 I would not flinch or come to their aid. Am I cruel or heartless in thinking that way? Honestly, I don't care - these varmints who commit these acts - they don't have a heart. They don't deserve compassion or mercy. 😡 These twisted people who take twisted pleasure in hurting others for their own amusement and pleasure, because they are in a position of power - I just... I know it's a horrid comparison, but to see fiction bleed into reality in a way that I just couldn't help see it that way. 😢
“He played me as if he had built me himself, molded me to his liking. In a way, he had. He’d shown me the way to true submission, and in that, I’d found myself as I was meant to be.”
Setting aside my angry outburst (please do forgive me for it, sometimes I just need a place to vent my pains away) - it is easy, though, to get lost in the writing; I mean, as a crime procedural, it is very good at never slowing down or allowing a lull in the story, laying out the framework of finding evidence, tracking down clues, the heightened tension of hitting a wall, or stumbling upon an uncooperative witness that slowly cascades into a mess of dirty cops and scheming and horrible businessman that don't deserve to exist. 👍🏻 And yes, despite my vexation with Gavin's questionable methods of finding evidence, as well as how often they had to gravitate to the sex clubs to get closer to finding Myah, I still felt very strongly for his relationship with Ben. 'We were always two sides of the same coin—the negative reflection of each other. Dom, sub. Victim, savior.' Maybe BDSM isn't for me, but I still really feel that it is very tame, considering what I expected it would be. But, maybe this isn't about sex, itself, but the way the power of balance has to be respected - that it is an honored give and take for both involved - and aiming to find a balance to their dynamic - a common ground, in which they both granted each other the feeling of completion and love. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
Ben really stepped out of his comfort zone here; it is not only payback for having Gavin give up his life of law enforcement, in order to enjoy the comforts of safety of simply being a criminology professor, but to reach into the crevices of his own Dom status - pushing himself to his own limits to help out in this case. 😥 McKnight was an interesting character introduced - an honorable man with good intentions, just having to do a job that did not derive much sympathy or appreciation from others. Does he have a spin-off of his own? Or is it featured in the next book? He definitely has a tough role - hard to sympathize with him entirely, given what he does, but some of his efforts in protecting the boys under his care, made him a worthy partner to invite into their bed - one that while Ben felt would have added something to their existing dynamic, only proved how much Ben loved Gavin and only Gavin. 'We could add a third to our bed, but never to our hearts. We belonged to each other.' A fierce protectiveness and claim that only Gavin was entitled to. 🥺
Despite my own displeasure with certain aspects of the story-telling, I do appreciate that this couple still is so resolutely connected with each other; that they trust one another to catch each other when they fall, that when either of them breaks, they will be there to hold them together. 🫂 They have lived the worst - they have seen danger in the eye - so for them to do whatever it takes to help those in need, no matter what - 'after all, it takes more courage to kneel before another than to stand beside them.' I hope the final conclusion wraps it up in a way that leaves me feeling that this foray into BDSM-exploration was worth it. 🤞🏻
“You don’t have to martyr yourself. If you need to break, you break. I will catch you.”
“I know you will. But tell me something, Sir. When do you get to break? When does the weight of me plus the world get to be too much for you?”
Trigger Warning
A few weeks ago, an innocent camel walked upon property that he was not supposed to have entered. In a cruel and spiteful act of vengeance and brutality, the landowner and his servants captured the animal that cannot speak for himself and cut off his leg.
I've never felt as disgusted and ashamed of humanity as I was when I read that news - knowing that a country like mine, where not always retribution is in order, that no one will be punished for this horrific atrocity that was committed. No one will pay for their sins - no one will feel that poor victim's pain - no one can give back to him what was viciously stolen for him. Our government is working on a prosthetic replacement, but who gave them the right to treat a helpless creature in such a despicable and unspeakable manner?
An anger boiled inside of me that made me choke out that if punishment was given out in the same way in which the terrible violation in which it was committed - an eye for an eye - a leg for a leg - then people would think twice about preying on those who can't protect themselves.
Please keep this in mind, as I lay out my frustrations and disappointment of this installment, while still reflecting how upsetting such stories can make me feel.
~*~*~*~
Former detective Gavin has to be either the most clueless police officer on the force, or the luckiest guy ever, for how the entire story-line is devoted to him trying to piece the clues together, only for everything to ever so conveniently fall into his lap, without even having to lift a finger. 😮💨 And yet, I don't blame him completely. I feel that the writer has a responsibility to make his efforts pay off successfully, rather than running out of steam or prolonging the story long enough - only for it to finally culminate when things have simply gone on for too long.
“That he had me and wouldn’t let me go.
“Break, Gavin. It’s okay to break, if you let me put you together again.”
And okay, I'm going to be forgiving, because in real life - how rare is it that in such situations, one is able to find missing victims or crack down a sex trafficking ring and come out unscathed or even be able to track down the culprits? 😔 The race against the clock is a taxing, if not grueling one, which weighs heavily as its own conflict, especially when it involves those emotionally invested in it. Cole's desperation and anguish in finding his wife was painful and palpable; the fear that claws at you when your loved one is missing and you don't know if they're alive or dead - what horrors are being inflicted on her, or what she is witnessing - there are no words. So yes, in a way, Gavin taking that long to rescue his brother's wife and former partner, Mia, only for Ben to step up and make the rescue for him - does make sense. 🥺
Still, it annoyed me of how it didn't feel like a satisfying end - mainly, again, because after all that trauma that she had to endure, the author once again does a time-jump of an epilogue, where her recovery is glossed over, and we speed our way into a happy conclusion... Yes, okay, so after all that traumatic horror and painful angst, would the reader want to subdue itself to more heaviness? But, it would have made it feel more believable and rewarding. I get that there is a final book in this series, but it just leaves me feeling so deflated that if such scenes would be addressed, it would only appear in the next book, instead. Just give it to me here! It wouldn't be so hard to spare a few more chapters to a reunion - a talk - a next step - nada. A very hasty and abrupt epilogue that left me wondering why all the tension deflated faster than a balloon losing its air.
“Even if you never say actual words,” I murmured. “I can always be what you need, if only you let me in.”
Clearly, I am very conflicted on my thoughts on this series. And I have to wonder how much of BDSM still really plays a part in Ben and Gavin's relationship, or have they stepped beyond the role of Dom and Sub? Ben and Gavin's relationship has reached that stage where they are comfortable with each other and are willing to explore other facets of their dynamic, bringing satisfaction and pleasure to both of them. 🥲 'Ben had me. Ben always had me, and we both knew it.' It peeved me slightly that they had to resort to a kink session, in order for them to gain some crucial information, but I think this is where my slight appreciation of the title is played out. Not only for these scenes, in which you have to take into account that winning the favor of the moral pimp who is in control of these young boys who are disappearing and landing in the wrong hands - all for the sake of getting crucial information that would help them get closer to Myah's whereabouts. A threesome, which is dominated heavily by the permission and consent of those involved and to respect the boundaries that are laid out. 🙆🏻♀️
And it is that same violation that we have to bear witness to with Myah - a different shift in the writing style of the author, in which we get her side of her story - of her abduction and the atrocities that she has to witness - the fear she has for the other young boys, taken alongside her - the anger of her past involvement in trying to help them coming back with a cruel vengeance that hurts and violates her. 😟 'Rage like none she’d ever known bubbled beneath her entire surface, and without an outlet, she feared she’d explode.' I'm not gonna lie - there's no sugarcoating how hard it was to read those scenes - the author takes us to the seedy floors of places I would want to protect everyone from. 💔💔 Subjugating those to commit sexual acts without their consent is the basis of this story that made me sick to my stomach. The inability to do anything about it, except for in fiction, where some people pay the price for the crimes they've committed - it is a small satisfaction, but the journey to get there - the trauma inflicted upon Myah - what she witnessed - endured - her helplessness to save those under her care, despite her efforts... 😞
And that's why my anger and hopeless frustration at how people in power find it so easy to abuse others - without any care for their well-being, treating them like worthless pieces of entertainment for their own sick twisted pleasure. It's bad enough reading such heavy topics, but knowing that this brutality and horrors exist in the real-life world - that when I heard the horrible news about the camel, I felt sick to my stomach. 😢 And I wished with such vengeance that if people were punished in the same way - if these men, who abuse these young boys - received the same treatment that was done unto those souls without their consent - I would not bat an eye. 🤬 I would not flinch or come to their aid. Am I cruel or heartless in thinking that way? Honestly, I don't care - these varmints who commit these acts - they don't have a heart. They don't deserve compassion or mercy. 😡 These twisted people who take twisted pleasure in hurting others for their own amusement and pleasure, because they are in a position of power - I just... I know it's a horrid comparison, but to see fiction bleed into reality in a way that I just couldn't help see it that way. 😢
“He played me as if he had built me himself, molded me to his liking. In a way, he had. He’d shown me the way to true submission, and in that, I’d found myself as I was meant to be.”
Setting aside my angry outburst (please do forgive me for it, sometimes I just need a place to vent my pains away) - it is easy, though, to get lost in the writing; I mean, as a crime procedural, it is very good at never slowing down or allowing a lull in the story, laying out the framework of finding evidence, tracking down clues, the heightened tension of hitting a wall, or stumbling upon an uncooperative witness that slowly cascades into a mess of dirty cops and scheming and horrible businessman that don't deserve to exist. 👍🏻 And yes, despite my vexation with Gavin's questionable methods of finding evidence, as well as how often they had to gravitate to the sex clubs to get closer to finding Myah, I still felt very strongly for his relationship with Ben. 'We were always two sides of the same coin—the negative reflection of each other. Dom, sub. Victim, savior.' Maybe BDSM isn't for me, but I still really feel that it is very tame, considering what I expected it would be. But, maybe this isn't about sex, itself, but the way the power of balance has to be respected - that it is an honored give and take for both involved - and aiming to find a balance to their dynamic - a common ground, in which they both granted each other the feeling of completion and love. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
Ben really stepped out of his comfort zone here; it is not only payback for having Gavin give up his life of law enforcement, in order to enjoy the comforts of safety of simply being a criminology professor, but to reach into the crevices of his own Dom status - pushing himself to his own limits to help out in this case. 😥 McKnight was an interesting character introduced - an honorable man with good intentions, just having to do a job that did not derive much sympathy or appreciation from others. Does he have a spin-off of his own? Or is it featured in the next book? He definitely has a tough role - hard to sympathize with him entirely, given what he does, but some of his efforts in protecting the boys under his care, made him a worthy partner to invite into their bed - one that while Ben felt would have added something to their existing dynamic, only proved how much Ben loved Gavin and only Gavin. 'We could add a third to our bed, but never to our hearts. We belonged to each other.' A fierce protectiveness and claim that only Gavin was entitled to. 🥺
Despite my own displeasure with certain aspects of the story-telling, I do appreciate that this couple still is so resolutely connected with each other; that they trust one another to catch each other when they fall, that when either of them breaks, they will be there to hold them together. 🫂 They have lived the worst - they have seen danger in the eye - so for them to do whatever it takes to help those in need, no matter what - 'after all, it takes more courage to kneel before another than to stand beside them.' I hope the final conclusion wraps it up in a way that leaves me feeling that this foray into BDSM-exploration was worth it. 🤞🏻
March 15, 2017
Ben and Gavin are just captivating. They really pulled me through this book. There is so much to say about this book, but I'm really just without words, so I'm not even going to try.
This installment was origanally on my "no-no" list because of some issues that would obviously push my limits,. And they did. I cried my heart out, cringed, was horrified but I also loved the hell out of it. But it was ever so worth it. I'm so glad I started reading this series.
In my opinion it's best to start this book so openminded possible, do-not read spoilers.. For me personally that worked cause | know I would've chickened out knowing what would come.
And just one thing; Myah, honey. You're my hero!!
I'll just end with some beautiful feelings between Ben & Gavin.
This installment was origanally on my "no-no" list because of some issues that would obviously push my limits,. And they did. I cried my heart out, cringed, was horrified but I also loved the hell out of it. But it was ever so worth it. I'm so glad I started reading this series.
In my opinion it's best to start this book so openminded possible, do-not read spoilers.. For me personally that worked cause | know I would've chickened out knowing what would come.
And just one thing; Myah, honey. You're my hero!!
I'll just end with some beautiful feelings between Ben & Gavin.
Years later, I understood., The point wasn't the climax. It wasn't the two hours or the pleasure derived in the psyical. It was knowin Ben understood everthing there was about me, cherished every single cell that made up my being, and feeling in the essence of who I was that this soul made mine sing. And I did the same for him.
October 27, 2014
I will rate again FAIRLY when
a) The author has actually written the book.
b) I have taken the time to read it.
WOW!!
Just a few thoughts:
Myah - Brutal is the only way to describe it!
Marshall - Made me sob. That poor, poor boy!
Gavin and Ben - I love these guys but really think they need a break and some quiet time!
The DeGrassi family - You have to love them all!!
If you haven't read the first two books for a while then do so again before starting on this one :-)
a) The author has actually written the book.
b) I have taken the time to read it.
WOW!!
Just a few thoughts:
Myah - Brutal is the only way to describe it!
Marshall - Made me sob. That poor, poor boy!
Gavin and Ben - I love these guys but really think they need a break and some quiet time!
The DeGrassi family - You have to love them all!!
If you haven't read the first two books for a while then do so again before starting on this one :-)
October 13, 2014
5 ++++ gut wrenching stars
Consent is the third book in the Power Exchange series. It is a darker read than the other Power Exchange books, and probably the darkest book I have read. I must warn you, the story deals with human trafficking, rent boys, rape, drugs and it did have a m/m/m scene. It is not for the faint of heart!!!
The story begins with Myah being kidnapped, and Cole, Gavin and Ben trying to figure out who would kidnap the police detective. With little to no evidence to follow, they go to Chicago to find out why Myah was asked to transfer to another police department. They run into police corruption & twists and turns you didn't expect.
My heart broke for Myah, as she pulled on her inner strength, not only to survive but to help the broken, damaged boys. I found myself holding my breath several times, wondering how anyone could survive the horrors they endured.
I once again adored Gavin and Ben. Ben, the Dom in their relationship, always took care of Gavin and made sure it didn't fall apart. Although, you do get to see a little chip in Ben's armor, it made me love him even more.
I absolutely loved this book. Even though it was difficult to read, it was a book about family, love and human perseverance.
Consent is the third book in the Power Exchange series. It is a darker read than the other Power Exchange books, and probably the darkest book I have read. I must warn you, the story deals with human trafficking, rent boys, rape, drugs and it did have a m/m/m scene. It is not for the faint of heart!!!
The story begins with Myah being kidnapped, and Cole, Gavin and Ben trying to figure out who would kidnap the police detective. With little to no evidence to follow, they go to Chicago to find out why Myah was asked to transfer to another police department. They run into police corruption & twists and turns you didn't expect.
My heart broke for Myah, as she pulled on her inner strength, not only to survive but to help the broken, damaged boys. I found myself holding my breath several times, wondering how anyone could survive the horrors they endured.
I once again adored Gavin and Ben. Ben, the Dom in their relationship, always took care of Gavin and made sure it didn't fall apart. Although, you do get to see a little chip in Ben's armor, it made me love him even more.
I absolutely loved this book. Even though it was difficult to read, it was a book about family, love and human perseverance.
October 10, 2014
This book is not for the faint of heart. It deals with hard issues head on and doesn't mince words.
This was a brave book, and I commend the writer for being willing to take us places most of us would often rather not go.
But if you want to feel and experience emotional extremes, and you're not afraid of shining a light in dark places, read it. Live it. Remember it.
This was a brave book, and I commend the writer for being willing to take us places most of us would often rather not go.
But if you want to feel and experience emotional extremes, and you're not afraid of shining a light in dark places, read it. Live it. Remember it.
April 10, 2017
Consent by A.J. Rose is the third book in the Power Exchange Series. This is NOT a standalone, you need to read the other books in the series and read them in order. This story is told in First Person, Multiple POV, and the narration is impeccable. I am writing this review and going to try to avoid any spoilers from any of the books in this series, so if I appear to be really vague..I don't want to ruin any part of this series.
Before I go any further, this story is one that is going to test a lot of limits and is a story many won't like due to subject matter. There is kidnapping, rape, sex crimes, death of a supporting character, murder, and torture involved in this book, in multiple scenes, in graphic detail. I want to make sure you understand this going into the book, because the story doesn't deserve low ratings by those who are unable to read dark matter. As we saw in the first two books of the series Power Exchange and Safeword, A.J. Rose writes some dark, graphic, disturbing scenes - so take the worst scenes from books one and two and multiply by 10, you will have the level of darkness found in Consent.
Now, to the story - it is again the same characters from the first two books. The DeGrassi men and their significant others along with the supporting characters from police stations and the BDSM life. Ben and Gavin are finally getting over trauma of the past and loving life. When all of a sudden horror strikes the DeGrassi family again. The words It's Mya. She's missing! via a phone call at 2 a.m. have Gavin, Ben, and Cole on a mission as they fight to bring back Cole's wife and Gavin's best friend from whoever dared to take her. This journey the three take part in challenges a lot of different aspects of the men. Their very humanity is tested and their bonds with each other are strained as they go head to head with some of the world's biggest scum. There is a lot of angst in this book, as you find yourself flipping through the 350 pages as fast as you can to see...will they get to Mya in time. Worse, what will be left of her?
This is a rollercoaster ride and will keep your heart pounding as you try to figure out who, what, why...who will make it? In addition, we get to see some very emotional times between Gavin and Ben as they take their relationship to new levels
I recommend this story to all readers who can read dark subject matter. Please read my warning ...take it seriously. This story will F*ck your mind in the biggest way!
5 stars!
Before I go any further, this story is one that is going to test a lot of limits and is a story many won't like due to subject matter. There is kidnapping, rape, sex crimes, death of a supporting character, murder, and torture involved in this book, in multiple scenes, in graphic detail. I want to make sure you understand this going into the book, because the story doesn't deserve low ratings by those who are unable to read dark matter. As we saw in the first two books of the series Power Exchange and Safeword, A.J. Rose writes some dark, graphic, disturbing scenes - so take the worst scenes from books one and two and multiply by 10, you will have the level of darkness found in Consent.
Now, to the story - it is again the same characters from the first two books. The DeGrassi men and their significant others along with the supporting characters from police stations and the BDSM life. Ben and Gavin are finally getting over trauma of the past and loving life. When all of a sudden horror strikes the DeGrassi family again. The words It's Mya. She's missing! via a phone call at 2 a.m. have Gavin, Ben, and Cole on a mission as they fight to bring back Cole's wife and Gavin's best friend from whoever dared to take her. This journey the three take part in challenges a lot of different aspects of the men. Their very humanity is tested and their bonds with each other are strained as they go head to head with some of the world's biggest scum. There is a lot of angst in this book, as you find yourself flipping through the 350 pages as fast as you can to see...will they get to Mya in time. Worse, what will be left of her?
This is a rollercoaster ride and will keep your heart pounding as you try to figure out who, what, why...who will make it? In addition, we get to see some very emotional times between Gavin and Ben as they take their relationship to new levels
"I want a collar around your throat, and a ring on your left hand. I have plans for us, and I’m going to do everything in my power to see those plans through.”
I recommend this story to all readers who can read dark subject matter. Please read my warning ...take it seriously. This story will F*ck your mind in the biggest way!
5 stars!
October 10, 2014
This story is the third book of the Power Exchange series by AJ Rose. It alternates from Gavin’s to a third person’s POV.
Gavin is no longer a police officer. He’s a university professor now and still in a domination/submission relationship with Ben.
The novel begins with Myah’s disappearance. She is Gavin’s former colleague and Cole’s wife. As you know, Cole is Gavin’s brother. This story is also about the kidnapping of teens who prostituted on Boystown’s streets. Gavin suspects dirty cops who forced Myah to leave Chicago by accusing her of forging false evidences concerning the same investigation on a juvenile prostitution ring.
As Gavin is no longer a police officer, he must show cunning and seek help from friends, still in the police, to have access to some records for him to pursue his parallel investigation.
The story therefore alternates between Cole’s, Gavin’s and Ben’s hotel rooms --where the three men are trying to find in Myah’s old records useful information to find her-- and the warehouse (or whorehouse) where Myah is kept prisoner by criminals called Kevin and the Boss, whose author said little about.
A big part of the investigation conducted mainly by Gavin, with Ben’s and Cole’s help is pretty boring because Gavin can’t really be directly involved in the police investigation and he’s basically trying to find information in old police reports. As for Cole, he is too directly concerned by his wife’s disappearance to be really useful and Gavin has so much trouble to convince him to stay at the hotel that it becomes fast annoying to read about their confrontations. Ben’s presence, except at the very end when he tries to "buy" boys to help dismantle the prostitution ring, is primarily used to fuel the novel’s erotic BDSM part. I admit that the appetizer scene with Blond Guy and the ménage with McKnight were pretty hot (chapter 17). But I found Ben too perfect to be true in the first book of this series; I didn’t change my mind here. And all Ben’s rubbing circles on Gavin’s back each time Gavin got tense ended up grating my nerves ("Not again!" I thought each time).
Besides, I think the author is trying too hard to make McKnight look like a good pimp. He said that he takes care of his boys, but he’s still a pimp making them work as prostitutes. His boys are also at risk of ending up like those who were abducted or killed. Sorry, Ms. Rose, but there's no nice pimp! I don’t like the beautiful image that you want to give us for this character. This encourages the idea that kids’ prostitution could be okay.
As for the part about Myah, we see her being tortured and raped by criminals trying to get more information to see if anyone would know too much about them and maybe denounce them. Myah tries to say just enough to satisfy them and thus be able to stay alive a little longer. She also tries to help a boy in the same captivity place as her.
“They’re hooking you on drugs to keep you cooperative, and then they’re either going to sell you to johns who pay for the privilege, or if I’ve understood what Boss said, they’re going to sell you to the highest bidder. Another kidnapping with a few more layers in the middle.”
Said by Myah to Marshall
I personally am not a fan of stories of torture and rape. I don’t even understand that we can take pleasure in describing such scenes or in reading them. Moreover, the true lovers of this kind of scenes may be disappointed because the author was not very "graphic" in her descriptions of torture and rapes. All she says is that an Xth hand landed on Myah and twisted her breast, for example. We know that Myah moans or cries sometimes, but that's all we learn of what she feels. The author stays too far away of her character's feelings and emotions for the readers to be really interested by all that.
In fact, I was much more struck by the idea of these kids probably tortured and raped in the same way, but we hardly hear about what happens to them, except for Marshall and Brady, that Myah tries to help. I find preposterous that everything Gavin and Co. want is to find Myah. For me, finding her was secondary. What mattered most was to get the kidnapped kids and stop the traffic and prostitution of innocent young gay men kept prisoners to meet pedophiles’ or Ephebophiles’ desires. I hoped throughout the novel that the story would conclude by dismantling this network. That’s the only thing that kept me interested.
Of course, as expected at the beginning of the novel, Myah and the boys are found and the ring dismantled. Then she can go back to her daughter and get her life with Cole back. The author wrote in the social networks that she “broke” Myah. And it’s certainly true. So I find this ending very fairy-tale style, because how could Myah continue making love with Cole without being disturbed by the memory of all she had gone through and what she did to survive?
I don’t really like the thriller/BDSM mixture, because for a casual reader, there could be confusion of genres: the reader thinking that the thriller’s scenes of violence are also BDSM scenes in disguise. They might not understand that they are two totally different things.
But the story is quite well written and Myah is a heroin as we seldom see. The threesome scene was quite good. And okay, the author managed to make me cry at the end. For these four reasons, especially for Myah’s strength, I give this story three and a half stars rounded up to four.
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