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Mastered #2.5
Schooled
When Amery Hardwick first met martial arts master Ronin Black, she wasn’t ready for the level of his sensual artistry—or his need for extreme control. Nor was she prepared for the primal urges it released in her. Amery and Ronin were made for each other.
When they married they were certain their future would be a fulfilling journey of love and passion. But happily ever after is never so simple. Six months later, while in Japan, Ronin is training with his sensei, while Amery is consumed by her own burgeoning career—and a culture shock with which she is struggling to adapt.
Now, from the heady pleasures of Tokyo bondage houses to the unyielding family traditions pulsing with every beat of Ronin’s heart, Amery and Ronin find the limits of their relationship tested once again, and shocked to discover what they’re willing to do in order to save it.
Includes a preview of Unraveled, the upcoming novel in the Mastered series.
When they married they were certain their future would be a fulfilling journey of love and passion. But happily ever after is never so simple. Six months later, while in Japan, Ronin is training with his sensei, while Amery is consumed by her own burgeoning career—and a culture shock with which she is struggling to adapt.
Now, from the heady pleasures of Tokyo bondage houses to the unyielding family traditions pulsing with every beat of Ronin’s heart, Amery and Ronin find the limits of their relationship tested once again, and shocked to discover what they’re willing to do in order to save it.
Includes a preview of Unraveled, the upcoming novel in the Mastered series.
113 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2014
94 people are currently reading
1676 people want to read
About the author
Lorelei James
67 books8,330 followersLorelei James is New York Times & USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary erotic westerns and erotic romances. She lives in western South Dakota.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
November 30, 2014
What a great little teaser/read while waiting for the next book, Unraveled, to come out in March. Amery and Ronin are on their way to Japan so that Ronin can study from a master Sensei. He must immerse himself in his art so that he can better himself. Only leaving Amery behind is not an option so together they travel abroad and begin a new journey.
This is a short and sweet read; therefore I will keep this relatively short as well. You will see the sexy control freak and his lovely lady in a new light. A new country brings a change in their usual and they need to adapt to this. It’s not easy but they manage. Now if you are reading this one for “the good stuff”, be warned - it is very much fade to black most of the time. I am unsure as to why. Maybe it will be retold in Unraveled with the added scenes?
Fans of this series will love it, I am sure. It is a great filler read while you wait for March to come :)
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This is a short and sweet read; therefore I will keep this relatively short as well. You will see the sexy control freak and his lovely lady in a new light. A new country brings a change in their usual and they need to adapt to this. It’s not easy but they manage. Now if you are reading this one for “the good stuff”, be warned - it is very much fade to black most of the time. I am unsure as to why. Maybe it will be retold in Unraveled with the added scenes?
Fans of this series will love it, I am sure. It is a great filler read while you wait for March to come :)
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KT Book Reviews
November 17, 2014
SCHOOLED was a quick fix for my Ronin withdraw symptoms. I didn't even realize how much I missed him until reading this quick novella. I will never get enough of this sexy, enigmatic, complicated man.
In SCHOOLED, Ronin and Amery travel to Japan for a month so that Ronin can complete his yearly training under his martial arts instructor. It's a rigorous training regimen, and he can't bear to be separated from his wife for the weeks that it takes, so he just took Amery along with him and decided to add in some vacation/honeymoon time too. Amery had no idea, however, how much time his training would consume, and Ronin had no idea how far he'd actually come.
SCHOOLED was very much Ronin's story, although like Bound and Unwound, it was told from Amery's POV. Amery is unprepared for how taxing Ronin's training is, and she has to find a way to be okay with that and supportive, without feeling abandoned and shut out. Amery does a remarkable job at adapting, and it demonstrates just how far she's come and how comfortable and confident she is in hers and Ronin's relationship.
Ronin comes to some startling revelations over the course of his training. Initially, he got the impression that his instructor was unhappy with Ronin's marriage, thinking it was going to interfere with his concentration and success as a martial arts master. In the end, though, the opposite proves true, much to Ronin's surprise.
Amery has the chance to meet the Japanese kinbaku master who taught Ronin everything he knows about rope technique. I loved that guy, and I loved the rapport that he and Amery had together.
Since the focus of this novella was on Ronin finishing up his training, we didn't see much at all of his rope play with Amery. This book was less hot and sexy and more sweet and romantic. We saw far less of the hot sex (and some scenes were even fade to black, which surprised me), and more of the feelings that both Amery and Ronin have for each other. Considering that in the two main series books, either Ronin or Amery took turns closing themselves off from the other, this was actually a refreshing change. I did miss all the sexy rope fun, though.
SCHOOLED was a great way to wrap up Ronin's and Amery's story. And, as a bonus, I got a preview into Shiori's and Knox's story, which is coming up next. I'm SO excited for their book!
In SCHOOLED, Ronin and Amery travel to Japan for a month so that Ronin can complete his yearly training under his martial arts instructor. It's a rigorous training regimen, and he can't bear to be separated from his wife for the weeks that it takes, so he just took Amery along with him and decided to add in some vacation/honeymoon time too. Amery had no idea, however, how much time his training would consume, and Ronin had no idea how far he'd actually come.
SCHOOLED was very much Ronin's story, although like Bound and Unwound, it was told from Amery's POV. Amery is unprepared for how taxing Ronin's training is, and she has to find a way to be okay with that and supportive, without feeling abandoned and shut out. Amery does a remarkable job at adapting, and it demonstrates just how far she's come and how comfortable and confident she is in hers and Ronin's relationship.
Ronin comes to some startling revelations over the course of his training. Initially, he got the impression that his instructor was unhappy with Ronin's marriage, thinking it was going to interfere with his concentration and success as a martial arts master. In the end, though, the opposite proves true, much to Ronin's surprise.
Amery has the chance to meet the Japanese kinbaku master who taught Ronin everything he knows about rope technique. I loved that guy, and I loved the rapport that he and Amery had together.
Since the focus of this novella was on Ronin finishing up his training, we didn't see much at all of his rope play with Amery. This book was less hot and sexy and more sweet and romantic. We saw far less of the hot sex (and some scenes were even fade to black, which surprised me), and more of the feelings that both Amery and Ronin have for each other. Considering that in the two main series books, either Ronin or Amery took turns closing themselves off from the other, this was actually a refreshing change. I did miss all the sexy rope fun, though.
SCHOOLED was a great way to wrap up Ronin's and Amery's story. And, as a bonus, I got a preview into Shiori's and Knox's story, which is coming up next. I'm SO excited for their book!
December 3, 2014
Just when you think you've read the whole story about a couple, there's more left to be revealed! In SCHOOLED Lorelei James takes us to the core of who Ronin is. While on their honeymoon, Ronin and Amery travel to Japan for some fun and sexy times, as well as some training for Ronin with his Master. And this book is very much Ronin's story.
SCHOOLED is deep and sensual, more so than sexual. What an incredible job by Lorelei James at giving the perfect insight into martial arts and how it goes beyond the physical. She incorporates the facts so well within the story that I was in awe of her execution. Not only in that aspect, but also the beauty of Kinbaku. There was one particular rope scene involving a cherry tree that was just blissful perfection. I shows an understanding of the topics she's writing about, and a good amount of research.
Only an author as talented as Lorelei James can capture the emotion and sensuality that the characters are going through at each moment. SCHOOLED excelled in that aspect for me and it made the book endearing to my heart. While I wasn't necessarily as anxious to read a novella about Ronin and Amery because, quite frankly, I'm biting my nails waiting for Shiori's book, this was just what I was missing in their story. It gives Ronin even more depth and it sets up Amery as a worthy companion for the rest of his life. At the beginning I was surprised that some (most?) of the sex scenes fade to black, but I see why it would've taken away from the story had they been there taking up space. If you've fallen in love with these two characters, you will be very pleased with this ending for them.
Of course, the teaser at the end for UNRAVELED left me even more anxious to read it! Come on March, hurry up and get here already!
*ARC provided by publisher
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December 2, 2014
Ronin and Amery will always be one of my favorite couples. There's just something about them that I feel I could continue to read. This novella is short and sweet and set in Japan with some naughtiness along the way.
Now that we've pretty much closed the book on the them I'm really looking forward to the next two books in the series.
Now that we've pretty much closed the book on the them I'm really looking forward to the next two books in the series.
Read
November 10, 2014I didn't want it to end! Book crush for sure. I'll share my thoughts and rating closer to release date :)
August 23, 2021
Soy fan incondicional de las historias "después" del "happyly ever after", especialmente si están bien contadas. Y esta lo está.
Ronin y Amery, ya casados van a una suerte de luna de miel a Japón, para q Amery conozca al Ojisan y a Ronin lo muela a ejercicios su sensei. Hay un poco de lo mismo, pero sobre todo, hay bastante de ambos juntos como pareja, y eso es lo mejor de todo hasta ahora, en los tres libros.
No hay grandes sorpresas, ni dramas, solo una pareja adaptándose a estar casada. Entretiene mientras nos prepara la historia de Knox y Shiori; y me gustó lo bastante como para no quitarle puntos x ser tan corta.
Ronin y Amery, ya casados van a una suerte de luna de miel a Japón, para q Amery conozca al Ojisan y a Ronin lo muela a ejercicios su sensei. Hay un poco de lo mismo, pero sobre todo, hay bastante de ambos juntos como pareja, y eso es lo mejor de todo hasta ahora, en los tres libros.
No hay grandes sorpresas, ni dramas, solo una pareja adaptándose a estar casada. Entretiene mientras nos prepara la historia de Knox y Shiori; y me gustó lo bastante como para no quitarle puntos x ser tan corta.
December 29, 2014
Just when you think you’ve read the whole story about a couple, there’s more left to be revealed! In SCHOOLED Lorelei James takes us to the core of who Ronin is. While on their honeymoon, Ronin and Amery travel to Japan for some fun and sexy times, as well as some training for Ronin with his Master. And this book is very much Ronin’s story.
SCHOOLED is deep and sensual, more so than sexual. What an incredible job by Lorelei James at giving the perfect insight into martial arts and how it goes beyond the physical. She incorporates the facts so well within the story that I was in awe of her execution. Not only in that aspect, but also the beauty of Kinbaku. There was one particular rope scene involving a cherry tree that was just blissful perfection. I shows an understanding of the topics she’s writing about, and a good amount of research.
Only an author as talented as Lorelei James can capture the emotion and sensuality that the characters are going through at each moment. SCHOOLED excelled in that aspect for me and it made the book endearing to my heart. While I wasn’t necessarily as anxious to read a novella about Ronin and Amery because, quite frankly, I’m biting my nails waiting for Shiori’s book, this was just what I was missing in their story. It gives Ronin even more depth and it sets up Amery as a worthy companion for the rest of his life. At the beginning I was surprised that some (most?) of the sex scenes fade to black, but I see why it would’ve taken away from the story had they been there taking up space. If you’ve fallen in love with these two characters, you will be very pleased with this ending for them.
Of course, the teaser at the end for UNRAVELED left me even more anxious to read it! Come on March, hurry up and get here already!
*ARC provided by publisher
January 23, 2015
Originally posted at The Book Nympho
SCHOOLED is another book I had on my Netgalley account but when I found out it was going to be produced in audiobook format I waited so I could listen to Luke and Rachel bring Ronin and Amery back to life. Their narration is so good!
Amery and Ronin have been married for 6 months now and they are heading to Japan for 2 months. Amery is excited and uneasy at the same time. She only speaks a few words in Japanese and doesn't know all the rules of the culture yet. Amery is a strong woman and isn't use to relaying on someone so much.
This is were we see how much Ronin and Amery has grown as couple. Ronin realizes that Amery has issues with letting him take care of her and she knows it bugs him that she might see him differently when they are surrounded by his family's money. They work through their problems with little angst but that's not to say they don't still have a few issues, what couple doesn't?
Like Amery, I loved seeing the more romantic side of Ronin in this quick listen. I cannot wait for UNRAVELED to release on audio in March! It's going to be interesting to see Ronin's sister, Shiori Hirano master Knox!
SCHOOLED is another book I had on my Netgalley account but when I found out it was going to be produced in audiobook format I waited so I could listen to Luke and Rachel bring Ronin and Amery back to life. Their narration is so good!
Amery and Ronin have been married for 6 months now and they are heading to Japan for 2 months. Amery is excited and uneasy at the same time. She only speaks a few words in Japanese and doesn't know all the rules of the culture yet. Amery is a strong woman and isn't use to relaying on someone so much.
This is were we see how much Ronin and Amery has grown as couple. Ronin realizes that Amery has issues with letting him take care of her and she knows it bugs him that she might see him differently when they are surrounded by his family's money. They work through their problems with little angst but that's not to say they don't still have a few issues, what couple doesn't?
Like Amery, I loved seeing the more romantic side of Ronin in this quick listen. I cannot wait for UNRAVELED to release on audio in March! It's going to be interesting to see Ronin's sister, Shiori Hirano master Knox!
January 7, 2015
When this book showed up in my 'review folder' I jumped for it! I loved the first 2 in the Masters series and couldn't wait to read this one. Its a fill in (a kinda in between if you will) while we wait for the next book Unraveled. I loved the 'honeymoon' part of this book, and the way that Ronin lets his soft side out more. I also loved how we get to see them Married and still madly in love with all that raw hot passion. Amery has to deal with not having Ronin present at times after his training and that is something new for her. She is in a unknown country with no friends, no way to really communicate with anyone, and to have Ronin not be there and distant is hard.
This short story was just what I needed. I missed Ronin and Amery and School provided me with what I was missing. And the sex is never disappointing. This book, as well with the other books in the Masters Series is for erotic romance lovers and not for those who aren't a fan for sex scenes. These books are based on romance and love sure but that underlining role of sex and passion is as much a part of these books as the romance and love.
If you haven't read this series you are missing out! But make sure you start with the first 2, because Schooled is based on characters we have already met and a life that we have already lived through.
This short story was just what I needed. I missed Ronin and Amery and School provided me with what I was missing. And the sex is never disappointing. This book, as well with the other books in the Masters Series is for erotic romance lovers and not for those who aren't a fan for sex scenes. These books are based on romance and love sure but that underlining role of sex and passion is as much a part of these books as the romance and love.
If you haven't read this series you are missing out! But make sure you start with the first 2, because Schooled is based on characters we have already met and a life that we have already lived through.
December 12, 2014
Ronin Black has spent months recovering from the injuries he sustained fighting. Now he’s fully recovered and able to return to Japan and train with his sensei. This trip will be different than any other before – he will be bringing his wife with him.
Amery knows how devastated Ronin was unable to train or fight. It is such an important piece of the man that he is in his heart. She quietly and steadfastly supported him through his struggle – but now it’s his turn.
She’s now in a country where she speaks very little of the language and is separated from her business and her friends. But she is starting to experience the man she thought she already knew in a different way. He’s stronger, more introspective, more loving – and more possessive than ever before. And Amery is determined to rise to the challenge and be the partner that he needs.
The Mastered series is definitely some of my favourite work by Lorelei. She has created one of the greatest and most enduring romantic couples in Ronin and Amery Black! Their chemistry is always perfection and in Schooled, there is an even further progression in the intense bond that they share - and it's that sizzling intensity that makes this series an absolute must read…
Amery knows how devastated Ronin was unable to train or fight. It is such an important piece of the man that he is in his heart. She quietly and steadfastly supported him through his struggle – but now it’s his turn.
She’s now in a country where she speaks very little of the language and is separated from her business and her friends. But she is starting to experience the man she thought she already knew in a different way. He’s stronger, more introspective, more loving – and more possessive than ever before. And Amery is determined to rise to the challenge and be the partner that he needs.
The Mastered series is definitely some of my favourite work by Lorelei. She has created one of the greatest and most enduring romantic couples in Ronin and Amery Black! Their chemistry is always perfection and in Schooled, there is an even further progression in the intense bond that they share - and it's that sizzling intensity that makes this series an absolute must read…
March 13, 2015
Blackraven's Review:
I loved catching up with Ronin and Amery in SCHOOLED. As Lorelei James' writing grows and spreads into different genres, so does her couples. Ronin and Amery had obstacles to overcome in this issue, but that was part of the intrigue. I loved that Amery stood her ground, even when at times it was difficult. Ms. James addressed several of the characters' hot buttons and came up with compromises that were reasonable and believable. In addition, Amery and Ronin learned to communicate with one another not only better, but on a deeper level. This couple has overcome many hurdles, but part of the appeal was watching them struggle and come out on top. Read More. . . http://www.blackravensreviews.com/aut...
I loved catching up with Ronin and Amery in SCHOOLED. As Lorelei James' writing grows and spreads into different genres, so does her couples. Ronin and Amery had obstacles to overcome in this issue, but that was part of the intrigue. I loved that Amery stood her ground, even when at times it was difficult. Ms. James addressed several of the characters' hot buttons and came up with compromises that were reasonable and believable. In addition, Amery and Ronin learned to communicate with one another not only better, but on a deeper level. This couple has overcome many hurdles, but part of the appeal was watching them struggle and come out on top. Read More. . . http://www.blackravensreviews.com/aut...
January 16, 2015
3.5 Stars
August 8, 2023
Felt like this book wasn’t necessary. This information could have been added into one of the other books. Felt it was rushed and missed important details.
December 9, 2014
Originally posted at http://smexybooks.com/2014/12/review-...
Favorite Quote: How could a man be so arrogant yet so humble?
Schooled is a short peek back into the lives of Ronin and Amery Black. Despite their differences (cultural and sexual) they learned to adapt and have gotten married. When Ronin heads to Japan for his yearly martial arts training with his sensei, he decides to take Amery along as he can not bear to be parted from her for so long. This vacation/honeymoon combo is exactly what Amery and Ronin need though Amery wasn’t prepared for exactly how much time Ronin’s training would consume their time or lives.
As Amery tries to adjust to the cultural and language differences she is experiencing, Ronin is going through his own adjustments. His sensei master is challenging every aspect of Ronin’s life, forcing Ronin to make some difficult decisions that reverberate through his marriage. Can Ronin and Amery survive the changes or is this trip the beginning of their end?
I have enjoyed the relationship James has built between Ronin and Amery. Two complete opposites who fell in love despite their differences and clawed their way to find common ground between them. Schooled revolves around Ronin though is told from Amery’s point of view. He is going home and he feels both excitement and trepidation in introducing Amery to his culture and family. This trip shows a vulnerability in him we haven’t really seen in the series. He has to balance the demands of his culture against the need to show his wife she is everything to him. There is a lot of emotional scenes that are used to show how far Ronin has come to opening up emotionally and verbally; able to accept and show his love for Amery.
Amery is having some issues of her own. She is unsure of what her role is exactly concerning Ronin while in Japan but her natural enthusiasm , addictive wit, and love for Ronin has her looking for anyway to support him without losing pieces of herself. She has also become more open and confident in her relationship with Ronin. She refuses to let him shut her out.
We see some old and new faces; all of which had a role in developing Ronin into the man he is now. Ronin’s grandfather is a force of nature to be reckoned with but Amery more than holds her own with him. We meet the man who taught Ronin his rope play. H and Amery develop a wonderful rampart which goes far into helping Amery make an important decision she herself has been wrestling with.
As this book focuses on Ronin and his reasons for being in Japan, the romance and it’s emotional counterparts are more pronounced while the actual erotic scenes are far less then we have seen previously. Very little rope play is seen. Both of them are completely open to one another and I found this book to be far more playful and sweet.
Schooled is a wonderful short story that takes care of the few remaining obstacles that may have eventually caused issues for Ronin and Amery. James wraps up their story, assuring us they truly belong to one another in all possible ways. We are also gifted a small scene from Unraveled, the next book in the series, which features Ronin’s sister, Shiori and one of his employee’s, Knox.
RATING: B
Favorite Quote: How could a man be so arrogant yet so humble?
Schooled is a short peek back into the lives of Ronin and Amery Black. Despite their differences (cultural and sexual) they learned to adapt and have gotten married. When Ronin heads to Japan for his yearly martial arts training with his sensei, he decides to take Amery along as he can not bear to be parted from her for so long. This vacation/honeymoon combo is exactly what Amery and Ronin need though Amery wasn’t prepared for exactly how much time Ronin’s training would consume their time or lives.
As Amery tries to adjust to the cultural and language differences she is experiencing, Ronin is going through his own adjustments. His sensei master is challenging every aspect of Ronin’s life, forcing Ronin to make some difficult decisions that reverberate through his marriage. Can Ronin and Amery survive the changes or is this trip the beginning of their end?
I have enjoyed the relationship James has built between Ronin and Amery. Two complete opposites who fell in love despite their differences and clawed their way to find common ground between them. Schooled revolves around Ronin though is told from Amery’s point of view. He is going home and he feels both excitement and trepidation in introducing Amery to his culture and family. This trip shows a vulnerability in him we haven’t really seen in the series. He has to balance the demands of his culture against the need to show his wife she is everything to him. There is a lot of emotional scenes that are used to show how far Ronin has come to opening up emotionally and verbally; able to accept and show his love for Amery.
Amery is having some issues of her own. She is unsure of what her role is exactly concerning Ronin while in Japan but her natural enthusiasm , addictive wit, and love for Ronin has her looking for anyway to support him without losing pieces of herself. She has also become more open and confident in her relationship with Ronin. She refuses to let him shut her out.
We see some old and new faces; all of which had a role in developing Ronin into the man he is now. Ronin’s grandfather is a force of nature to be reckoned with but Amery more than holds her own with him. We meet the man who taught Ronin his rope play. H and Amery develop a wonderful rampart which goes far into helping Amery make an important decision she herself has been wrestling with.
As this book focuses on Ronin and his reasons for being in Japan, the romance and it’s emotional counterparts are more pronounced while the actual erotic scenes are far less then we have seen previously. Very little rope play is seen. Both of them are completely open to one another and I found this book to be far more playful and sweet.
Schooled is a wonderful short story that takes care of the few remaining obstacles that may have eventually caused issues for Ronin and Amery. James wraps up their story, assuring us they truly belong to one another in all possible ways. We are also gifted a small scene from Unraveled, the next book in the series, which features Ronin’s sister, Shiori and one of his employee’s, Knox.
RATING: B
December 16, 2014
I love checking in with past characters and Schooled gave me exactly what I was looking for as we wait for book 3 due out in March 2015!
Ronin and Amery have married and are blissfully happy in their union. When it comes time for Ronin to go back home to Japan to continue his training he whisks Amery with him as a sort of delayed and extended honeymoon. The training and its commitments take much of his time, ultimately leaving Amery to fend for herself in a foreign country whose language she does not speak. She relishes the alone time she gets to spend with Ronin but his exhaustion from training often leaves him distant and moody.
These two definitely were made for each other. Ronin and Amery together is sheer perfection. I love how they both have grown as characters since I first encountered them in Unbound (book 1). Amery does a much better job of communicating her grievances to Ronin while still understanding his need to please his sensei. Once Ronin is aware of the strain this trip seems to be putting on his new marriage he does everything within his power to ease Amery’s mind by showing her over and over how much he truly cares for her.
The rope play is still integral to the flow of the book but I’d say that just the connection and coupling of these two is what did it for me in Schooled. Amery really puts herself out there for Ronin and he reciprocates by taking her places she never dreamed about. James paints the scenes so perfectly that I have to wonder if she’s been where her characters have been. I could almost smell the blossoms on the trees that she describes with ease.
You need to read these in order to truly get the growth and emotion James has woven into this series. It’s simply amazing and I cannot wait for book 3! I just wish it would have been longer so I didn’t have to say goodbye as soon.
I give Schooled by Lorelei James 4 stars!
Ronin and Amery have married and are blissfully happy in their union. When it comes time for Ronin to go back home to Japan to continue his training he whisks Amery with him as a sort of delayed and extended honeymoon. The training and its commitments take much of his time, ultimately leaving Amery to fend for herself in a foreign country whose language she does not speak. She relishes the alone time she gets to spend with Ronin but his exhaustion from training often leaves him distant and moody.
These two definitely were made for each other. Ronin and Amery together is sheer perfection. I love how they both have grown as characters since I first encountered them in Unbound (book 1). Amery does a much better job of communicating her grievances to Ronin while still understanding his need to please his sensei. Once Ronin is aware of the strain this trip seems to be putting on his new marriage he does everything within his power to ease Amery’s mind by showing her over and over how much he truly cares for her.
The rope play is still integral to the flow of the book but I’d say that just the connection and coupling of these two is what did it for me in Schooled. Amery really puts herself out there for Ronin and he reciprocates by taking her places she never dreamed about. James paints the scenes so perfectly that I have to wonder if she’s been where her characters have been. I could almost smell the blossoms on the trees that she describes with ease.
You need to read these in order to truly get the growth and emotion James has woven into this series. It’s simply amazing and I cannot wait for book 3! I just wish it would have been longer so I didn’t have to say goodbye as soon.
I give Schooled by Lorelei James 4 stars!
December 23, 2014
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: C+
Schooled catches us up with the now newly married Ronin and Amery as they take an extended vacation/training trip to Japan. It’s a chance for them to get away, for Ronin to immerse himself into his rigid training for three weeks and for Amery to meet Ronin’s family, specifically his hard to please Grandfather.
I’m not normally a huge fan of short stories, but I found the length of Schooled to be just about perfect for Ronin and Amery, they’re pretty intense and there had been a lot of sex, a LOT of sex scenes in their previous two books. So to have a short story that while yes, still packed with sex, there was plenty of time given to Ronin and what he goes through with his training and for Amery to meet his family. I’d have liked more time to have spent between Amery and Ronin’s Grandfather, that scene was built up but happened very quickly on page. Less time about Amery whining about being alone while Ronin was training and more time on the interactions between her and Ronin’s mother and Grandfather would have been interesting to read play out as well.
Steamy, erotic sex – check. The sex scenes in Schooled are what you’d expect if you read the first two books. There’s a detailed rope scene, plenty of various sex scenes and yeah sure, it’s hot, but I found myself more bored than anything else. Not exactly what you want to experience reading an erotic novella I suppose.
Schooled is a quick, short read and fans of Ronin and Amery will enjoy getting a glimpse of their married life. I liked the story but can’t say I was blown away by anything. I am, however, very excited for the next full length book in this series, centered around Ronin’s sister.
Blog rating: C+
Schooled catches us up with the now newly married Ronin and Amery as they take an extended vacation/training trip to Japan. It’s a chance for them to get away, for Ronin to immerse himself into his rigid training for three weeks and for Amery to meet Ronin’s family, specifically his hard to please Grandfather.
I’m not normally a huge fan of short stories, but I found the length of Schooled to be just about perfect for Ronin and Amery, they’re pretty intense and there had been a lot of sex, a LOT of sex scenes in their previous two books. So to have a short story that while yes, still packed with sex, there was plenty of time given to Ronin and what he goes through with his training and for Amery to meet his family. I’d have liked more time to have spent between Amery and Ronin’s Grandfather, that scene was built up but happened very quickly on page. Less time about Amery whining about being alone while Ronin was training and more time on the interactions between her and Ronin’s mother and Grandfather would have been interesting to read play out as well.
Steamy, erotic sex – check. The sex scenes in Schooled are what you’d expect if you read the first two books. There’s a detailed rope scene, plenty of various sex scenes and yeah sure, it’s hot, but I found myself more bored than anything else. Not exactly what you want to experience reading an erotic novella I suppose.
Schooled is a quick, short read and fans of Ronin and Amery will enjoy getting a glimpse of their married life. I liked the story but can’t say I was blown away by anything. I am, however, very excited for the next full length book in this series, centered around Ronin’s sister.
December 30, 2014
What a nice fix of Ronin and Amery while we wait for Knox and Shiori's story in Unraveled!
We pick things up after the end of Unwound with Amery and Ronin on an extended trip to Japan. Amery is meeting the Black family patriarch for the first time and Ronin is getting in some required training with his sensei. For the amount of erotic scenes in the novels, this novella is decidedly a bit more chaste, but the focus is on the progression of Amery and Ronin's relationship and the love that has evolved between them mores than the sex.
Amery has come into her own in her relationship with Ronin and she shows much more confidence, despite her insecurities. We get a nice teaser of Unraveled at the end and this novella is accomplished in whetting the reader's appetite between books.
There wasn't as much shibari/kinbaku as I would've liked, but overall, it's a very sweet story and I nice look at what's to come.
We pick things up after the end of Unwound with Amery and Ronin on an extended trip to Japan. Amery is meeting the Black family patriarch for the first time and Ronin is getting in some required training with his sensei. For the amount of erotic scenes in the novels, this novella is decidedly a bit more chaste, but the focus is on the progression of Amery and Ronin's relationship and the love that has evolved between them mores than the sex.
Amery has come into her own in her relationship with Ronin and she shows much more confidence, despite her insecurities. We get a nice teaser of Unraveled at the end and this novella is accomplished in whetting the reader's appetite between books.
There wasn't as much shibari/kinbaku as I would've liked, but overall, it's a very sweet story and I nice look at what's to come.
February 4, 2015
3.5 Stars
A student should always study his craft to perfection. For Ronin - this involves traveling back to Japan to study with his Sensei. Now that he is a newlywed, leaving Amery behind is not an option. To further his martial arts instruction, Ronin needs to study for a least a month with a rigorous schedule. So - he decides to take Amery with him to Japan. Both plan on enjoying an extended honeymoon in his home country while making sure his training doesn’t keep them apart.
So many things are going through Amery’s head. Spending time in Japan is exciting and intimidating. As Ronin’s training begins, he feels that his instructor is unhappy with his marriage. The thought of leaving Amery everyday and the pull of his dedication, leaves Ronin unable to concentrate fully when with his sensei. As the two soon learn, their apprehension and desire for one another prove combustible to all those around them.
While Schooled was a great glimpse into the married life of Ronin and Amery, it lacked some of the spark that Lorelei James is known for in her writing. For me - it was more ‘fluff’ than substance. Now - that doesn’t mean I hated it. I just like more depth and deeper insight when uncovering history about main characters.
A student should always study his craft to perfection. For Ronin - this involves traveling back to Japan to study with his Sensei. Now that he is a newlywed, leaving Amery behind is not an option. To further his martial arts instruction, Ronin needs to study for a least a month with a rigorous schedule. So - he decides to take Amery with him to Japan. Both plan on enjoying an extended honeymoon in his home country while making sure his training doesn’t keep them apart.
So many things are going through Amery’s head. Spending time in Japan is exciting and intimidating. As Ronin’s training begins, he feels that his instructor is unhappy with his marriage. The thought of leaving Amery everyday and the pull of his dedication, leaves Ronin unable to concentrate fully when with his sensei. As the two soon learn, their apprehension and desire for one another prove combustible to all those around them.
While Schooled was a great glimpse into the married life of Ronin and Amery, it lacked some of the spark that Lorelei James is known for in her writing. For me - it was more ‘fluff’ than substance. Now - that doesn’t mean I hated it. I just like more depth and deeper insight when uncovering history about main characters.
March 5, 2015
SCHOOLED is a quick sexy read that actually leaves the reader with the sense of having read a fully developed story, which is a nice change from what you get with many shorter stories. In this novella we get to see a different side of Ronin. Returning to Tokyo with Amery as his wife, Ronin is under a lot of pressure from both his family and himself. He feels the pressure of his family obligations, his desire to return to training with his sensei, as well as making sure that Amery is secure in her place as his wife. Amery is thrown into a world that she has no frame of reference for. She doesn't speak Japanese, sin't familiar with the culture, and she's not very comfortable with the overt wealth and influence Ronin's family has.
Through this short story Amery and Ronin learn to trust each other more deeply and depend on each other for the strength that they each need to make their relationship work. SCHOOLED is definitely a nice bridge book between books 2, UNWOUND, and book 3 UNRAVELED which is due out in March 2015.
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
Through this short story Amery and Ronin learn to trust each other more deeply and depend on each other for the strength that they each need to make their relationship work. SCHOOLED is definitely a nice bridge book between books 2, UNWOUND, and book 3 UNRAVELED which is due out in March 2015.
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
May 3, 2024
Il Sensei Ronin Black, proprietario del dojo, affascinante maestro di arti marziali e di tecniche come lo shibari o il kinbaku, mi ha ammaliata fin dal primo libro della The Mastered Series, una serie erotica, intrigante e misteriosa, nella quale ho avuto modo di apprezzare l’arte del bondage.
Di Ronin ho amato fin da subito la pazienza nel creare nodi e l’amore sconfinato verso Amery, la donna che ama e venera in ogni modo possibile.
In questa deliziosa novella l’autrice racconta del loro viaggio in Giappone, mettendo in luce le prime difficoltà che affronta una coppia sposata da poco, ma anche la complicità che da sempre li contraddistingue. Una passione che brucia e che accende le fantasie🔥, perfetta conclusione di una serie che mi è rimasta nel cuore
*Ringrazio la Casa Editrice per la collaborazione e la copia digitale in anteprima
Di Ronin ho amato fin da subito la pazienza nel creare nodi e l’amore sconfinato verso Amery, la donna che ama e venera in ogni modo possibile.
In questa deliziosa novella l’autrice racconta del loro viaggio in Giappone, mettendo in luce le prime difficoltà che affronta una coppia sposata da poco, ma anche la complicità che da sempre li contraddistingue. Una passione che brucia e che accende le fantasie🔥, perfetta conclusione di una serie che mi è rimasta nel cuore
*Ringrazio la Casa Editrice per la collaborazione e la copia digitale in anteprima
December 3, 2014
I loved this quick read. Definitely not a stand-alone, I'd only recommend if you've read the first 2 of the series first.
In this novella, we follow Ronin and Amery as they travel to Japan for Ronin's annual training with his sensei. Loved the setting, and the new characters we meet. My favourite part of this series though, is how Lorelei James portrays the rope work that is at the core of the relationship. She is able to make it seem so sensual that you can feel the rope on your skin...
4 ★
In this novella, we follow Ronin and Amery as they travel to Japan for Ronin's annual training with his sensei. Loved the setting, and the new characters we meet. My favourite part of this series though, is how Lorelei James portrays the rope work that is at the core of the relationship. She is able to make it seem so sensual that you can feel the rope on your skin...
4 ★
January 11, 2015
This is a great little update into Amery and Ronin's lives. They are still newlyweds and on a trip to Japan so that Ronin can work with his master sensei and build his body back up from the injuries he received while fighting. They are leaning more about each other and Amery also gets to meet more of Ronin's family. A great teaser until the next book is released. Don't miss it!
April 9, 2015
I really liked this novella, in that it shows us Ronin and Amery about 6 months after the end of Unwound, as they are still adjusting to married life and the give and take that brings. I absolutely loved the last few lines of the book.
January 20, 2015
Too short for my liking but equally hot as the previous books.
I love Ronin Black.
January 2, 2015
A little disappointing I felt it was mostly fluff. Some of it was good but the dynamics and powerful relationship which unfolded in other books played a back seat In this book
April 19, 2015
loved this novella!
July 20, 2015
I was sad this one was so short. I wish there was more
August 5, 2015
Holy, hotness Ronin and Amery. Love this novella as we get to learn more about Ronin's past & his training in Japan and this incredible love story. Great end to their story. Great job Lorelei!
May 26, 2015
A nice quick-Ronin-fix.
April 25, 2018
Perfect Addition!!
This short novella was the perfect addition to Amery and Ronin's story. It's tells of their journey through Japan and overcoming some issues neither one thought they had. It was a great glimpse into their lives together and hints at their hopes for the future.
The narration was great! Yet again, there is nothing remotely bad that I can say about anything to do with this book!
This short novella was the perfect addition to Amery and Ronin's story. It's tells of their journey through Japan and overcoming some issues neither one thought they had. It was a great glimpse into their lives together and hints at their hopes for the future.
The narration was great! Yet again, there is nothing remotely bad that I can say about anything to do with this book!
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