Losing her master ripped Darcy's world apart. Falling in love put it back together. Malcolm is an undercover agent, and she's his unwitting asset. Can a relationship built on lies survive the truth? Picking herself up after the devastating loss of her master is more difficult than Darcy anticipated. Just when she needs someone the most, a handsome Dom steps in. Theo is thoughtful, dominant, and demanding—everything she needs. He pushes her boundaries, tests her limits, and takes her to new heights. With him, she remembers what it is to feel joy and love and a firm hand on her ass. Agent Malcolm Legato is after a corrupt businessman, and Darcy is his ticket into the upper echelon of Snyder Corp. As he cultivates her as an asset, he falls hard for this feisty submissive, and he knows he'll break her heart the moment she finds out he's been lying to her all along. When it all falls apart, will Darcy be able to find the strength to forgive Malcolm so they can build a life together and the courage to bring justice to the man she loved and lost? With twists of rope and plot, this action-packed story will make you laugh, cry, and squirm in all the right ways. With Re/Bound, Michele Zurlo delivers a smart, bold, and sexy tale.
Michele Zurlo is the author of the Awakenings, Doms of the FBI, and the SAFE Security series and many other stories. She writes contemporary and paranormal, BDSM and mainstream—whatever it takes to give her characters the happy endings they deserve. Her childhood dream was to be a librarian so she could read all day. Some words of wisdom from an inspiring lady had her tapping out stories on her first laptop, and writing blossomed from a hobby to a career.
Darcy is just starting to pick up the pieces of her shattered life. Her fiancé, Scott, is still missing and the cops haven't done a thing. They still think she had something to do with his murder. What could she possibly hope to gain from the love of her life? The one who meets her masochistic needs? This is the danger of being a pain slut in a judgmental world. Darcy's accused of killing him for being physically abusive towards her. Shoot me now.
Malcolm is a FBI agent assigned to figure out the dirty dealings of Victor Snyder. It would be a bonus if he could crack the missing person's case regarding Scott. Although, really, at this point, everyone knows Scott is dead. They just need to find the body for Darcy's closure. Malcolm needs to find a way into Snyder's company. Darcy is his way in since Snyder depends on her.
This story is a bit of a romantic suspense. It's a part of the plot yet not really the main focus. If it were the main focus, Victor's illegal dealings would have been exposed. Instead, the focus is the hawt BDSM D/s scenes between Darcy and Malcolm. The D/s sent shivers up my spine in need. While Malcolm takes Darcy dancing and gives her specific rules, I nearly melted into a puddle of goo. While not adverse to SM, Malcolm is more BD and D/s which is very alluring to me. The way they communicated, used safewords and interacted with soft/hard limits felt spot on. This was all very enjoyable! On BDSM scenes, set up and hawt Dom, this is a 4 star book.
What brought this down to a 3.5 star is the romantic suspense parts. I couldn't fathom why Victor wanted Darcy so badly for her marketing skills. It's just not believable. The cops and FBI didn't buy it either. Because it makes very little sense. There are many other people out there who would kill for this job. There needed to be other ulterior motives for Victor to want Darcy so badly for it. Another disconnect which really bugged me was Malcolm's carelessness. The reader already knows Snyder is a bad guy based on Ms. Zurlo's set up. For a FBI to miss not just once but TWICE video/audio surveillance doesn't ring true. How can a FBI be this clueless. I'm not in law enforcement and there are certain things I never say or do in a public or private function setting. The subjects I'm referring to aren't even that risque or interesting. It's basically the names of my clients. Unless I'm at home, I never feel comfortable referencing any client names. If I'm this careful, how can a FBI undercover agent be so much less? This really aggravated me.
Still, this tale is a lovely BDSM story with great dialog and scenes for BD and D/s. This is recommended for romantic readers looking for some good kinky fun involving bondage and submission.
Suspense plot was barely okay. One of those books that make the BDSM relationship seem more work than it's worth, lol. After all relationships should be fun:)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
A Dom and a sub walk into a bar... Although there is more to it than that, most of the story involves them exploring their preferences and limits. Their desires and styles don't mesh perfectly, which makes it even more intriguing. She knows how to be a good sub, but she makes him work for it. Their clashes are both amusing and intense.
There isn't much mystery here, but it gives structure to the story, and the ending is strong.
This has one of my pet peeves , but it is handled much better than usual, and I didn't cringe.
I found the story "interesting". It has an inventive and twisting plot line involving subterfuge, evolving character development and that lovely tension between the main characters which kept me reading to the finish. Written in the third person, the author wrote many BDSM scenes into the narrative. Some were erotic and exciting but at times... the author overworked the narrative a bit, by having her characters parse through their proclivities and necessary desires in any BDSM scene. It was as if the author was discipling the reader to pay attention to the various nuances of this practice almostly clinically...Eventually toward the end, I felt the love from the hero Dom. The heroine, traumatized and struggling with grief, enjoyed her puishments but found that she was not always the perfect submissive traumatized and struggling with grief.If you like to read about the Dom/sub dynamic than this will be winner for you.
A simple mini-review for you...hopefully soon I will be back with the whole "spiel"!!!
This book has all the ingredients I love: BDSM, though out plot, exciting story with a bit of suspense and a HEA. It also is a stand-alone-in-series, which is a big plus IMO.
Although I enjoyed the book, I didn’t devour it like other books that hold the exact same ingredients. It took me actually several days to finish it, which is not my usual MO. Why? For starters the writing is repetitive in place, like the ritual when indicating the start of a BDSM scene, and I started to think “yeah, yeah, I know” when it occurred. Second, while I didn’t dislike the MC’s, I didn’t love Darcy and Malcolm.
Still, I’m curious about Keith and the series has potential IMO, so the next one is going to be on my TBR shelf.
This story exceeded even the promise of its wonderful cover. Given that the set up between Darcy and Malcolm/Theo was by necessity a lie, I found it interesting how much of the book was about honesty and trust. As Malcolm and Darcy negotiated their way into a D/s relationship (with S/m aspects as well), they did so honestly with very little of the bullying or manipulation that often happens in stories of this kind. Limits were pushed but, in most cases, with fully negotiated agreement from both parties. The relationship developed so that both parties were able to get their needs met, both parties made compromises. I enjoyed Darcy and Malcolm. They were strong, intelligent and likable characters. I also cheered on their relationship as it worked its way to a HEA that was immensely satisfying.
Only one moment missed the mark for me. This did not feel true to life, while the rest of the book was quite believable.
There was humor as well, while poor Malcolm sweated out the coming reveal of his status as an undercover FBI agent. As Darcy goes on about how she hates cops and liars, the only real question was just how big the collision would be when shit and the fan got together. Ms. Zurlo has a gift for dry humor and witty analogies that are sprinkled throughout the book. Had I remembered to bookmark one I could give you an example, sadly I was too busy reading to remember. I encourage you to read and find out for yourself. :-)
Losing her Master ripped Darcy's world apart. Falling in love put it back together. Malcolm is an undercover agent, and she's his unwitting asset. Can a relationship built on lies survive the truth?
I read this years ago before I knew how important reviews were. Now that more of this series is out I'm doing a reread of the first few I read to catch up. I really enjoyed Re/Bound. Enjoyed even more the second time reading it. The characters are strong and well written. Story and plot are great. Can't wait for to read the rest of the series.
I really loved this book. Malcolm is a FBI Agent looking for info on how Darcy's fiance, Scott, disappeared, possibly murdered. He doesn't believe Darcy is guilty and in addition is looking for info to take down the man she and Scott were working for. This book had everything. Romance, suspense and I love an Alpha! This is a new author for me and I'm definitely reading more of this series.
This sizzling hot read explores the nature of Dom/sub relationships by showing the point of view of a sub who has lost her Dom and finds a new one. It also explores how someone will react to betrayal by someone she loves.
I loved the character of Darcy. She is a strong woman, and also a pain slut, but feels she playacts more than submits. She participates in scenes for the pain, not the submission. When Theo helps her prepare for a speech by dominating her just before her entrance, she feels a real connection. The two begin a relationship that provides both of them what they need, and they are soon in love.
The problem is, Theo is really Malcolm, an FBI agent who is using Darcy to find out more about her previous Dom’s disappearance and to obtain information about the illegal activities of her major client. After the way the cops treated Darcy after Scott’s disappearance, she wants no part of cops or bondage. “Theo” is able to push her into enjoying bondage, but can he overcome the betrayal she will feel when she learns who he really is?
The book contains some hardcore BDSM scenes and is not for the faint of heart. It features highly charged emotions, mystery, and a very likeable heroine. It starts a little slow, but quickly catches you up in the plot. Be prepared with a cool drink or hot lover after reading this one!
Michele Zurlo is no stranger and is a favorite if mine. Having read her Awakening Series, I already knew that she delights in strong characters, feisty energy exchanges between her Doms and subs, doesn't look for the easy resolution to the. crises in her stories, and keeps the HEA realistic. Darcy pulls at a reader's heartstrings as a wounded, grieving, vulnerable woman who is floundering without the presence of her missing Master. Theo is an experienced Dom who steps in at a critical moment, fills an immediate need and begins a relationship that may well hurt them both before the undercover sting is over. It is a novel that is erotic, tense on many levels, a carefully crafted study of human nature, and another fine example of the author's writing abilities and expertise. A very fine beginning to what promises to be a fine series.
I wanted to like this book. After finishing Lexi Blake's Masters & Mercenaries, I was looking for something along the same lines. This book focused a lot on the trust building of the characters, but little on the suspense side, which made for a slower read. While I could definitely feel the depth of emotions the characters were feeling, I didn't connect to them.
Ehh, I'm not really gonna review this one. From the cover and description I was expecting smoking hot and it wasn't. It was just ok. I found myself bored and wanting to start another book. But others love it, try it out for yourselves.
I want to say that I loved this book. I like the idea of it but for me it just didn't live up to what I was expecting. This was the first book I've read of Michele Zurlo and I have to say the writing was good, it was just something about the characters that didn't grab me.
RE/BOUND is the first book in the Doms of the FBI series. Each book in the Doms of the FBI series stands alone, though there is an arc that is built throughout the series.
This is one hawt, BDSM, romance with a touch of suspense.
The BDSM and romance are perfectly described and lovingly crafted, including the Shibari knot-tying that Malcolm loved. There is no doubt that Malcolm/Theo and Darcy are falling in love. I loved his patience with her as he stretched her limits and encouraged her submission.
The suspense generally takes a back seat until the last chapter. Though I don’t understand Victor’s motivations, I though the author did a good job of showing that a warped mind doesn’t think as logically as the rest of us. His motives are part of what makes it hard to solve the crime.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: RE/BOUND Series: Doms of the FBI #1 Category /Genre: Romantic Suspense, Erotic Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC copy / errors excused Received from: Michele Zurlo
Malcolm is an FBI agent and computer specialist. Working under cover investigating a business man suspected of money laundering. Darcy who works for him is his in. She is also a suspect in the disappearance of her fiance. He is taken by surprise when he learns she is a masochist, who speaks to his Dom. Darcy runs a successful business writing grants and setting up charitable organizations. She has been desperately trying to end her involvement with business Victor. When she meets Theo\Malcom, he taps right into her masochistic side. Soon they are spending all their time together. He is slowly breaking down her defenses. Darcy is still raw from the loss of her fiance and Master, Scott. Giving Theo\Malcom her trust and submission is a slow process for her. His secrets and lies threaten to destroy what they found together. Darcy is determined to get justice for Scott. Fast paced, and steamy, BDSM romance. Though dragged in the middle, to much roll play, not enough advancement in the story line. Really moved fast towards the end A great ending and a nice epilogue.
Loved it....Darcy is still going through the motions when her Dom is missing... stuck at a convention and needing a good flogging.. she meets Theo. Theo is an undercover FBI agent looking into the people Darcy works for, and the missing Dominant.
What did I like? I’m in love with this author, and her Dominant series. This is one of those books that are super long but you just can’t hurry things because you want to soak up every scene. It. Was. Amazing. Theo was super devoted, and Darcy was so smart assed but demure. This is an awesome writer...loved it.
Would I recommend or buy? This is worth the price....it’s super long and you get what you pay for. What to read after fifty shades?.. This. If you love books that show the Dom/sub relationship really well then this is for you. I just loved it.
Thoughts for the author? Congratulations on your release.. I’m already a fan. This is my third read of yours and I’m super hooked. I read books so fast but only ones I truly enjoy...I just couldn’t rush this. Fabulous book.
Stumbled across this book as a recommendation. Never know what to expect with a new author, but after reading the tag, I was willing to give it a shot.
I love a good thriller/mystery, and that part of the plot didn't disappoint. Lover goes missing, and after a year the FBI are still trying to investigate the disappearance. Agent goes undercover, meets with the girl, and (of course, this is a romance) the two hook up, all while secrets are being close under wraps.
I've only read a few books that deal with the SM part of BDSM, and the author seems to be knowledgeable about this topic and explains well through the characters why pain is helpful to her and how she processes it. I think that's important to understand for anyone who doesn't understand and thinks pain is not pleasurable. Still can't say I'm interested in that aspect of BDSM personally, but I have a better understanding and appreciation for people who do enjoy that aspect.
The characters are well written and as in any good erotic romance, I can't say I'd turn down a guy like Malcolm lol :) Looking forward to seeing what other characters Ms. Zurlo creates.
Malcolm Legato is the epitome of dominant deliciousness with his no-nonsense, stern yet tender persona. His undercover assignment bring him into Darcy Marcovich's orbit. He needs her to get him into Victor Snyder's inner circle. What Malcolm doesn't count on is his strong attraction to this very submissive woman. Darcy lost her Master when he disappeared months ago and was presumed dead. He was her anchor. He centered her with his Dominance. Ready to start moving on with her life, Malcolm wants her submission which means he must earn her trust. They both seem to get what they need from their relationship until Malcolm's real identity is revealed accidentally. Now he must convince her to play out the mission in order to take Snyder down and also prove her killed her Master. Darcy has a secret of her own and it's revealed inconveniently which changes the entire op for Malcolm. Their goals no longer align and he just has to keep her safe.
Dang this book was filled with intense scenes interwoven into a strong story line. There was a few times I had to stop and then start the scene over as it was so hot in deserved a second read. Theo/Malcolm is a Dom with incredible creativity. I am speechless over some of the scenes they were so hot. I enjoyed that Darcy knew how to communicate her needs and her limits to him. I loved that it was not solely about pushing her limits but you see her push him on his limits. It was not all about the female character needing to open up but the Dom also discussing him past experiences and how that shaped some of his hard limits. It was refreshing.
I just discovered this author however I have been a long time fan of BDSM romances and I am kicking myself as to how I had not read this author earlier. This is the 2nd book of her’s I have read and I know I am going to continue to enjoy this ride.
Our hero works for the FBI and is using our heroine as an asset on a case. What he didn't count on was developing feelings for her in the process.
This is the start of a romantic suspense series with strong elements of BDSM. I found the story to generally well written, although I got tired of some of the repetition in sections. The story was also slanted a bit heavily towards the steamy materials which generally works well for me, but in a suspense story I expect the mystery/case to take the front seat and the steam to be a diversion, not the other way around. None of these were major concerns, just minor distractions. I am hoping that they will get cleaned up in later books, and I look forward to reading more to find out.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes
Loved the book it was great, the story was well written and the characters are interesting. Once I started I could not put the book down from start to finish you just could not get enough left you wanting more twists and turns with emotions that makes you want more. Darcy lost her Master she was devastated and lost. Theo is what she needs he is a Dom so he wins Darcy over, what Darcy does not know is that he is an FBI agent named Malcom, he not only lied to Darcy he used her. Can they work it out? Darcy felt she was on a rollercoaster ride of emotions that makes her anxious. Thank you for allowing me to review your book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Me debato entre 2 y 2,5* pero es que me ha pesado mucho la falta de emoción. No he visto amor a pesar de los te quieros, hasta el momento de la resolución de la intriga policial. Los cambios de rol, ahora soy dominante, ahora no, me han descolocado mucho. Las escenas sexuales son buenas y Theo es un protagonista de los que me gustan y está muy a la altura de lo que representa. Sin embargo la historia no, no me creo ese amor, por lo menos hasta el final no me lo he creído. Y eso de que todo el mundo esté al corriente del tipo de relación que tienen, me ha parecido extraño, la verdad. Por no decir que la trama policiaca es un poco floja.
Darcy and Malcolm are electric from the moment they meet. It is unfortunate that he is investigating the disappearance of her fiancee and she is just getting back into the world since her fiancee disappeared. These facts don't stop them from starting a relationship, it is as if they can't help themselves. They each hold a little bit back, and when they can't anymore, they give over to the other completely
Or course, that is the time everything comes to a head. Even then though, it is handled with maturity and without excessive drama. The HEA is going to be there, because for these two, it isn't even an option that it not!