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The Lodge #1
Rules to Live By: An M/M Daddy Romance: The Lodge, Book 1
His life may be falling apart but he's not looking for someone to fix it.
Or is he?
Slade's not at rock bottom but he's close. His band split up, his bank account is empty, and his best friend went and fell in love.
As soon as Jack saunters up behind him, Slade's immediately on edge. Jack is fancy suits and expensive whiskey, while Slade is dive bars and cheap beer. Besides, why would someone who owns a kink club be interested in a wreck like him?
Slade doesn't want to crave Jack, yet he can't bring himself to disobey his demands. He knows Jack can give him rewards he never dreamed of...
Structure.
Hope.
Love.
Jack might be in charge, but it's Slade who holds the power. In order to get what he needs, he'll have to accept Jack's help.
Rules to Live By is a dual-POV book featuring a brat who's not used to following the rules and a workaholic businessman who may be too committed to the success of his unique kink club. The Lodge series will follow the growing popularity of this club as well as the men who make it run.
Or is he?
Slade's not at rock bottom but he's close. His band split up, his bank account is empty, and his best friend went and fell in love.
As soon as Jack saunters up behind him, Slade's immediately on edge. Jack is fancy suits and expensive whiskey, while Slade is dive bars and cheap beer. Besides, why would someone who owns a kink club be interested in a wreck like him?
Slade doesn't want to crave Jack, yet he can't bring himself to disobey his demands. He knows Jack can give him rewards he never dreamed of...
Structure.
Hope.
Love.
Jack might be in charge, but it's Slade who holds the power. In order to get what he needs, he'll have to accept Jack's help.
Rules to Live By is a dual-POV book featuring a brat who's not used to following the rules and a workaholic businessman who may be too committed to the success of his unique kink club. The Lodge series will follow the growing popularity of this club as well as the men who make it run.
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First published February 26, 2020
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August 19, 2020Kindle freebie 8/19/20!
March 25, 2020
2,5 Stars
It's really difficult to pinpoint why exactly this didn't work better for me. The premise is pretty standard. Young twink at rock bottom meets rich Daddy who takes control of his life and helps him get back on track. Other reviews make a point of Slade being a "middle" but honestly the story itself just sort of presents the middle/Daddy relationship as a given without ever actually having the characters define what they're doing in words.
I weirdly often find myself complaining about M/M being too short and spending too little time on relationship development. Well, this book actually spends way too much time on Slade and Jack talking about where their relationship is going. There is no real plot to speak of. It's just one talk after another about their respective insecurities interspersed with Jack giving Slade new rules and then punishing or rewarding him accordingly.
But even the kink aspects of this story are pretty mild. If this story is to be believed a middle is just a sub who calls his Dom Daddy with some power exchange.
Meh.
It's really difficult to pinpoint why exactly this didn't work better for me. The premise is pretty standard. Young twink at rock bottom meets rich Daddy who takes control of his life and helps him get back on track. Other reviews make a point of Slade being a "middle" but honestly the story itself just sort of presents the middle/Daddy relationship as a given without ever actually having the characters define what they're doing in words.
I weirdly often find myself complaining about M/M being too short and spending too little time on relationship development. Well, this book actually spends way too much time on Slade and Jack talking about where their relationship is going. There is no real plot to speak of. It's just one talk after another about their respective insecurities interspersed with Jack giving Slade new rules and then punishing or rewarding him accordingly.
But even the kink aspects of this story are pretty mild. If this story is to be believed a middle is just a sub who calls his Dom Daddy with some power exchange.
Meh.
March 13, 2020
A book about a "middle" is not something I have read before.
Slade is at rock bottom, Jack is not looking for a boy to look after. Yet their attraction is undeniable. Their snark and banter is fun and flirty.
I am not really a big fan of the Daddy scene, and it can become too much at times, however I am a big fan of Quinn Ward's books, and I found myself really enjoying myself reading Rules To Live By.
I adored seeing more of Jordan (Slade's besty) and where he is at in his relationship with his Daddies
I look forward to more of The Lodge series in the future.
Slade is at rock bottom, Jack is not looking for a boy to look after. Yet their attraction is undeniable. Their snark and banter is fun and flirty.
I am not really a big fan of the Daddy scene, and it can become too much at times, however I am a big fan of Quinn Ward's books, and I found myself really enjoying myself reading Rules To Live By.
I adored seeing more of Jordan (Slade's besty) and where he is at in his relationship with his Daddies
I look forward to more of The Lodge series in the future.
April 9, 2020
3.5 stars.
July 20, 2020
Who knew Rules Could Be So Liberating!
Ex-band member Slade needs help and stoic club owner Jack is just the one to lend a hand, then love ensures between the two. This romance was an okay read. In general, I liked the MCs enough, the setting, and the co-characters from Club 83 series. However, I didn't quite buy into the connection between the MCs. I was put off by Jack’s treatment of Slade, him not sharing his private life. I would also like to know more about Slade’s background and his real name. Overall, it’s an interesting enough read.
Ex-band member Slade needs help and stoic club owner Jack is just the one to lend a hand, then love ensures between the two. This romance was an okay read. In general, I liked the MCs enough, the setting, and the co-characters from Club 83 series. However, I didn't quite buy into the connection between the MCs. I was put off by Jack’s treatment of Slade, him not sharing his private life. I would also like to know more about Slade’s background and his real name. Overall, it’s an interesting enough read.
February 28, 2020
♥️ A challenge is always met.
A great start when Slade and Jack meet. The snarky banter and sassy comments from Slade was a temptation singing to Jacks Dom instincts. Slade reminds me of a tiger but wants to be a cat to be taken care of. Slade's never a had relationship and is frightened about Jack and feelings of hurt. Sexy sexy scenes are included along with aghast and more. Slade's a singer and I think he misses his band mates, he's proud and hates asking for help. I'll look forward to reading Sam's story and I've yet to read Jordan, Eli and Doug story. A great ending. Loved it.
Slade's life was at rock bottom, previously in a band that had broken up and nothing since but downwards. A friends house warming party is what he needed.
Jack was a Dom without a boy, and owned a few club one of which was The Lodge.
A great start when Slade and Jack meet. The snarky banter and sassy comments from Slade was a temptation singing to Jacks Dom instincts. Slade reminds me of a tiger but wants to be a cat to be taken care of. Slade's never a had relationship and is frightened about Jack and feelings of hurt. Sexy sexy scenes are included along with aghast and more. Slade's a singer and I think he misses his band mates, he's proud and hates asking for help. I'll look forward to reading Sam's story and I've yet to read Jordan, Eli and Doug story. A great ending. Loved it.
Slade's life was at rock bottom, previously in a band that had broken up and nothing since but downwards. A friends house warming party is what he needed.
Jack was a Dom without a boy, and owned a few club one of which was The Lodge.
March 2, 2020
¸.•´¸★*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤5 star, 4 muted heat.¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
"He knew damn well that stubborn little boys were my kryptonite."
I have had Quinn's Kinky series and it's sequel Club 83 loaded on my kindle for a while. But there was just something about reading Jack and Slade's backstory that drew me in. And the more I read, the wilder it got. This is an effing good book. I loved the push and pull of Slade after losing his band and losing his way. I loved how Jack recognized something in him, but was almost too afraid to explore it. I enjoyed how the author pulled elements out and made them the focus of the men as they grew. I admired Jack's willingness to allow himself to grow and Slade's slow progress into becoming whom he needed to be. I discovered a different side of kink... One that made me appreciate this world a little more. I always had an issue with the Daddy term...it weird-ed me out. But this book made it something different. I will definitely recommend this book to all looking for a different type of kink in their life and to anyone willing to explore...safely and with consent.
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤5 star, 4 muted heat.¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
"He knew damn well that stubborn little boys were my kryptonite."
I have had Quinn's Kinky series and it's sequel Club 83 loaded on my kindle for a while. But there was just something about reading Jack and Slade's backstory that drew me in. And the more I read, the wilder it got. This is an effing good book. I loved the push and pull of Slade after losing his band and losing his way. I loved how Jack recognized something in him, but was almost too afraid to explore it. I enjoyed how the author pulled elements out and made them the focus of the men as they grew. I admired Jack's willingness to allow himself to grow and Slade's slow progress into becoming whom he needed to be. I discovered a different side of kink... One that made me appreciate this world a little more. I always had an issue with the Daddy term...it weird-ed me out. But this book made it something different. I will definitely recommend this book to all looking for a different type of kink in their life and to anyone willing to explore...safely and with consent.
August 27, 2020
I liked this story, mainly because it evolved in a sequential, no rush to HEA, step by step progression of a Daddy (Jack), who happens to be gay, single, a businessman, and a Dom and a bratty boy (Slade) whose life has spiraled out of control and isn't even aware he needs someone.
But, and it's a big BUT, there are three characters in here--a throuple--one of whom is Slade's BFF and other is Jack's brother. These three play a major role in the story and are in multiple scenes and yet, I have to ask: Where did they come from? Why was there no alert that characters from a previous series would be entwined in the lives of the MCs in this book? And I still can't even figure out which series they came from so I can't go look them up. This to me, totally ruined the story. I was curious about them. Their dynamic and references to Jordan's friendship with Slade and Doug's relationship with Jack, and the other character, Eli's work relationship with all of them wove in and out of most of this book. Why weren't we warned? I totally hate this happening and it's the second time within a month this happened to me.
So yes, this story is quite nice, if you can get past the confusion created by these other characters and their missing backstory.
But, and it's a big BUT, there are three characters in here--a throuple--one of whom is Slade's BFF and other is Jack's brother. These three play a major role in the story and are in multiple scenes and yet, I have to ask: Where did they come from? Why was there no alert that characters from a previous series would be entwined in the lives of the MCs in this book? And I still can't even figure out which series they came from so I can't go look them up. This to me, totally ruined the story. I was curious about them. Their dynamic and references to Jordan's friendship with Slade and Doug's relationship with Jack, and the other character, Eli's work relationship with all of them wove in and out of most of this book. Why weren't we warned? I totally hate this happening and it's the second time within a month this happened to me.
So yes, this story is quite nice, if you can get past the confusion created by these other characters and their missing backstory.
March 6, 2020
Stuck in the middle with you.
Arc provided courtesy of Gay Romance Reviews
All reviews are voluntary and my honest opinion.
A book about middles! They're so rare!
Jack and Slade are both very likable.
My main point of contention is the same as it was with the last two books. There's a sweet story here, but it doesn't need to be two books long. The first sixty percent of the book takes place in less than twenty four hours, but there's not enough happening to merit it. There's a decent amount of repetition.
I do want more of middle Slade. I'd love more Jack and Slade at the club. I'm on board for the next book. I just hope the pace is more accelerated.
3.5/5
Arc provided courtesy of Gay Romance Reviews
All reviews are voluntary and my honest opinion.
A book about middles! They're so rare!
Jack and Slade are both very likable.
My main point of contention is the same as it was with the last two books. There's a sweet story here, but it doesn't need to be two books long. The first sixty percent of the book takes place in less than twenty four hours, but there's not enough happening to merit it. There's a decent amount of repetition.
I do want more of middle Slade. I'd love more Jack and Slade at the club. I'm on board for the next book. I just hope the pace is more accelerated.
3.5/5
Read
November 13, 2023No acaba de engancharme, la historia es un poco manida y el daddy kink no es lo mío. Llegué al 25% por si acaso era diferente, pero es un calco de esos de joven roto conoce mayor seguro de si mismo que arregla desaguisados mejor que un terapeuta reputado, combinando castigo y sexo a partes iguales....¡Paso!, si todos los problemas psicológicos de autoestima se arreglasen así habría más clubs fetichistas en el mundo que McDonald's.
April 10, 2020
I liked the story and characters. It was just a little too wordy and slow in large blocks throughout the book. Maybe because it’s the first in the series? I’ll definitely read more and of these two, and hopefully the pacing will pick up just a bit :)
June 15, 2020
Okay
This was a likable story with likable characters. But the story was stretched out more than needed. It ended with the expectation of a continuation. One that is not needed.
This was a likable story with likable characters. But the story was stretched out more than needed. It ended with the expectation of a continuation. One that is not needed.
August 22, 2020
Rock on
Poor Slade, it's so hard to fight through depression the way he did, and to try to get better. I'm glad Jack had friends to kick his hiney.
Poor Slade, it's so hard to fight through depression the way he did, and to try to get better. I'm glad Jack had friends to kick his hiney.
January 10, 2022
Need help?
Space needs someone to help him be what he needs to be, a middle. Jack needs a boy to love and protect. Great reading when they get together!
Space needs someone to help him be what he needs to be, a middle. Jack needs a boy to love and protect. Great reading when they get together!
September 1, 2025
August 2025
Kindle edition
Not my thing. It felt like a spin off, which it probably was. Also felt like an intro set up book for a playroom. Sex and orders that ended in a realization and set the path for the future.
Kindle edition
Not my thing. It felt like a spin off, which it probably was. Also felt like an intro set up book for a playroom. Sex and orders that ended in a realization and set the path for the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2022
Jack and Slade😍
This book was definitely different from the books I usually read (in a good way😉). Both guys were looking for something that they didn't even know they needed. It was beautiful to see them discover this together. Slade's and Jack's emotional trauma ran deep but together they healed in ways they couldn't even imagine (with plenty of spice along the way). It was an amazing journey to watch. Excellent read!
This book was definitely different from the books I usually read (in a good way😉). Both guys were looking for something that they didn't even know they needed. It was beautiful to see them discover this together. Slade's and Jack's emotional trauma ran deep but together they healed in ways they couldn't even imagine (with plenty of spice along the way). It was an amazing journey to watch. Excellent read!
March 1, 2020
Unfortunately no connection with the characters or the story for me. Felt like the book didn’t really go anywhere, and nothing in particular actually happened. Not liking the characters made this a very difficult book for me to read and I found myself skimming the majority of the last 45%.
So just 2 stars on this one.
So just 2 stars on this one.
March 4, 2020
Quinn Ward's Rules to Live By, the first book in The Lodge series, picks up with men we've met in previous Quinn Ward books.
Slade and Jack are two complex men who desperately need one another. Poor Slade's floundering, barely living. Meeting Jack changes everything. A natural caretaker, Jack is immediately there to help Slade with his issues.
The result is some hot sex, a great Daddy relationship, and the start of a Daddy/little dynamic. It's great. The age play ends up being that of a middle instead of little, so take note if that's not your thing.
The character growth is fantastic. Slade comes alive again, and gains a new sense of calm and order as a result of Jack's help. Then there's Jack who comes out of hiding. He's never been in a relationship, hides away in his office, and is a Dom without a sub. Seeing him succumb to the sassy Slade is fantastic, as this is everything Jack has avoided in his life, but is exactly what he needs.
I love the way the author explores the mentality behind age play. The calm and peace that it brings to the little/middle. As well, the Daddy play heavily focuses on the needs of the sub, including Slade's need for rules. Love it.
Their story contains a BDSM club, with some innovative changes taking place. It also contains some sass, some snark, and a whole lot of heat.
Rules to Live By is a fantastic read. I love this Quinn Ward story and can't wait to see what comes next for this group of friends and family. Sam has definitely peaked by interest and I am excited for his story.
Slade and Jack are two complex men who desperately need one another. Poor Slade's floundering, barely living. Meeting Jack changes everything. A natural caretaker, Jack is immediately there to help Slade with his issues.
The result is some hot sex, a great Daddy relationship, and the start of a Daddy/little dynamic. It's great. The age play ends up being that of a middle instead of little, so take note if that's not your thing.
The character growth is fantastic. Slade comes alive again, and gains a new sense of calm and order as a result of Jack's help. Then there's Jack who comes out of hiding. He's never been in a relationship, hides away in his office, and is a Dom without a sub. Seeing him succumb to the sassy Slade is fantastic, as this is everything Jack has avoided in his life, but is exactly what he needs.
I love the way the author explores the mentality behind age play. The calm and peace that it brings to the little/middle. As well, the Daddy play heavily focuses on the needs of the sub, including Slade's need for rules. Love it.
Their story contains a BDSM club, with some innovative changes taking place. It also contains some sass, some snark, and a whole lot of heat.
Rules to Live By is a fantastic read. I love this Quinn Ward story and can't wait to see what comes next for this group of friends and family. Sam has definitely peaked by interest and I am excited for his story.
September 13, 2020
So good!
Slade was such an endearing character to me. He had so many things going on in his life and he had no idea how to handle any of it. His apartment was a mess, his bank account was a joke, he had basically one friend , no job, and he hasn't gotten physical relief in awhile either....well aside from what his hand provided. He desperately needs something, but he doesn't know what. When he meets Jack at a housewarming party, he is immediately on edge....irritated, yet strangely turned on. Jack has this presence that makes Slade want to both rebel and behave. Jack doesn't have time to coddle a brat, but something about Slade calls to him. He wants to protect and care for him even though he knows it's a bad idea. It was so uplifting to see how Slade started to change after some time under Jack's direction. Bad habits are hard to break but when the reward is worth it....well that makes all the difference! The characters had such chemistry and their interactions were steamy.
Slade was such an endearing character to me. He had so many things going on in his life and he had no idea how to handle any of it. His apartment was a mess, his bank account was a joke, he had basically one friend , no job, and he hasn't gotten physical relief in awhile either....well aside from what his hand provided. He desperately needs something, but he doesn't know what. When he meets Jack at a housewarming party, he is immediately on edge....irritated, yet strangely turned on. Jack has this presence that makes Slade want to both rebel and behave. Jack doesn't have time to coddle a brat, but something about Slade calls to him. He wants to protect and care for him even though he knows it's a bad idea. It was so uplifting to see how Slade started to change after some time under Jack's direction. Bad habits are hard to break but when the reward is worth it....well that makes all the difference! The characters had such chemistry and their interactions were steamy.
March 3, 2020
My first read by this author but definitely not my last, really enjoyed reading this fast paced, well written, attention grabbing book. I had hit rock bottom when my band broke up, I just seem to have lost it all and with my inheritance totally spent, I just can't seem to find a way out and I refuse to expect my friends to give me a hand up. But then I meet him, a suit and my whole world changes, maybe finially things are going to turn around for me and I will have that special someone in my life that I didn't know I needed.
June 8, 2023
Slade and Jack were such a great couple. Slade had some major self-esteem issues from his past, and while the book didn't really get into the cause of those issues, it did show Jack helping him Slade overcome those issues.
Overall, a great start to the series, and I'm looking forward to seeing William's story in the next book and I'm hoping that at some point Sam get's his own HEA.
Overall, a great start to the series, and I'm looking forward to seeing William's story in the next book and I'm hoping that at some point Sam get's his own HEA.
June 8, 2020
This book is weirdly constructed. There are set ups that lead to nothing and the next book in this series is about a different couple, so WTF is going on in this?
Timeline time: chapter 1-15 as follows:
Unspecified time: Slade gets invited to a housewarming party.
Thursday: Slade gets drunk at said party, Jack drives him home and spends the night, no sex.
Friday: In the morning they kiss, Jack gives Slade a to-do list then goes to work, that night they have dinner and then sex.
Saturday: They spend the morning (until 2 pm) together, no sex, both go to work.
Sunday: This day is skipped, aka no interaction (other than texting that we, the reader, don't see).
Monday: Jack stops by in the morning, they nap and then have sex. (chapter 15 ends and chapter 16 starts with a time skip). Obviously I'm not mentioning everything that happened, but those are the cliff notes. This story is a little too fast paced for where they are at emotionally/relationship wise for only this amount of time having passed. Chapter 16 starts with a month time skip, thank god, as otherwise this story would be insane. Until you think, oh, from 16-19 happens over the course of like 2 different days. And chapter 20 is 1 day. No sexy times after chap 15.
The references to the series Club 83 (which I have NOT read) pop up way too much. From what I can gather Slade is in it as a side character (who was a bit of an ass), but the MC is most likely Jorden, Slade's best friend. But the amount of detail given isn't enough in THIS book for me to understand what's going on, and when names are dropped it feels like I should already know about the events, which is just annoying as a reader. When authors write spin-off's, it should be in the blurb. The way it's handled in this book is not the best. Most of Jorden, Eli and Doug's relationship I can infer from this book, in other words, this book spoils the fuck out of the series Club 83 (I think, haven't read it).
There is some moments, editing choices, or word choices that really irked me. The use of "root canal" when someone looked overly bothered or the word "cagey" being used instead of any of it's synonyms. The word "break" when Jack is thinking about BDSM and Slade, specifically because I don't know exactly what he means when he says it. Slade's insecurities. When someone says something and it's not until halfway through the next sentence we have enough info to deduce who was talking. And my least favorite of everything that happens is when Jack tells Slade what Slade is feeling about something or why he is feeling something or how he is feeling something. It's one thing for the character to think it, it's another when he straight up tells another character what/how/why they are feeling what they are feeling.
On a very positive note: the CNC sleep kink is discussed and consented to multiple ways in the story before it happens. This is a kink that is in too many stories without prior consent, so, much love to author for that. On a negative note for the same kink, why didn't it happen? Set up with no pay off. Why use so much time setting it up if you aren't going to do it?
The last few chapters, other than being a constant "will they say the L word to each other or not", was a bit of a kink overload. Or kink that I wasn't expecting? I didn't feel like we were introduced to the aspect of DDlb in this story until it happened and then we were in it fully (talking about headspace, playing, age regression). I didn't see it coming, and when I look back at the story, the parts that would maybe fall under this umbrella didn't have that edge to them where my mind then thinks "oh, DDlb". And it easily could have been mentioned multiple different times; e.g when the room was being designed (aka the scenes with Sam). Why wasn't it mentioned or alluded to?
And I don't know where to put this, but over a month Slade and Jack have been dating, and they haven't been to either Jack's workplace or Jack's house yet. Insane relationship. I can't even.
On a random negative note: Jack is abusive? Or rather it reads as though he could be. I might fuck up trying to explain this thought, but at times Jack says somethings to Slade that feel on the line for me. Like Slade would say something bratty and Jack would respond by saying something about him physically abusing Slade (he'll beat him, Slade won't be able to sit for a week, he'll give him welts). Slade never seems to respond to these threats though. They are just a part of the dialog and I find that very weird. But he didn't come off as abusive, just some of the things he said did.
This is one of the weirdest books I've read in a long time. The construction is just not done well. Whoever edited this (plot wise) was napping that day. It's all over the place. This story has some serious set up/pay off issues.
On a random neutral note: this was super easy to read.
Timeline time: chapter 1-15 as follows:
Unspecified time: Slade gets invited to a housewarming party.
Thursday: Slade gets drunk at said party, Jack drives him home and spends the night, no sex.
Friday: In the morning they kiss, Jack gives Slade a to-do list then goes to work, that night they have dinner and then sex.
Saturday: They spend the morning (until 2 pm) together, no sex, both go to work.
Sunday: This day is skipped, aka no interaction (other than texting that we, the reader, don't see).
Monday: Jack stops by in the morning, they nap and then have sex. (chapter 15 ends and chapter 16 starts with a time skip). Obviously I'm not mentioning everything that happened, but those are the cliff notes. This story is a little too fast paced for where they are at emotionally/relationship wise for only this amount of time having passed. Chapter 16 starts with a month time skip, thank god, as otherwise this story would be insane. Until you think, oh, from 16-19 happens over the course of like 2 different days. And chapter 20 is 1 day. No sexy times after chap 15.
The references to the series Club 83 (which I have NOT read) pop up way too much. From what I can gather Slade is in it as a side character (who was a bit of an ass), but the MC is most likely Jorden, Slade's best friend. But the amount of detail given isn't enough in THIS book for me to understand what's going on, and when names are dropped it feels like I should already know about the events, which is just annoying as a reader. When authors write spin-off's, it should be in the blurb. The way it's handled in this book is not the best. Most of Jorden, Eli and Doug's relationship I can infer from this book, in other words, this book spoils the fuck out of the series Club 83 (I think, haven't read it).
There is some moments, editing choices, or word choices that really irked me. The use of "root canal" when someone looked overly bothered or the word "cagey" being used instead of any of it's synonyms. The word "break" when Jack is thinking about BDSM and Slade, specifically because I don't know exactly what he means when he says it. Slade's insecurities. When someone says something and it's not until halfway through the next sentence we have enough info to deduce who was talking. And my least favorite of everything that happens is when Jack tells Slade what Slade is feeling about something or why he is feeling something or how he is feeling something. It's one thing for the character to think it, it's another when he straight up tells another character what/how/why they are feeling what they are feeling.
On a very positive note: the CNC sleep kink is discussed and consented to multiple ways in the story before it happens. This is a kink that is in too many stories without prior consent, so, much love to author for that. On a negative note for the same kink, why didn't it happen? Set up with no pay off. Why use so much time setting it up if you aren't going to do it?
The last few chapters, other than being a constant "will they say the L word to each other or not", was a bit of a kink overload. Or kink that I wasn't expecting? I didn't feel like we were introduced to the aspect of DDlb in this story until it happened and then we were in it fully (talking about headspace, playing, age regression). I didn't see it coming, and when I look back at the story, the parts that would maybe fall under this umbrella didn't have that edge to them where my mind then thinks "oh, DDlb". And it easily could have been mentioned multiple different times; e.g when the room was being designed (aka the scenes with Sam). Why wasn't it mentioned or alluded to?
And I don't know where to put this, but over a month Slade and Jack have been dating, and they haven't been to either Jack's workplace or Jack's house yet. Insane relationship. I can't even.
On a random negative note: Jack is abusive? Or rather it reads as though he could be. I might fuck up trying to explain this thought, but at times Jack says somethings to Slade that feel on the line for me. Like Slade would say something bratty and Jack would respond by saying something about him physically abusing Slade (he'll beat him, Slade won't be able to sit for a week, he'll give him welts). Slade never seems to respond to these threats though. They are just a part of the dialog and I find that very weird. But he didn't come off as abusive, just some of the things he said did.
This is one of the weirdest books I've read in a long time. The construction is just not done well. Whoever edited this (plot wise) was napping that day. It's all over the place. This story has some serious set up/pay off issues.
On a random neutral note: this was super easy to read.
February 20, 2020
4.25 Stars!
I've been hoping for this book since we met Slade in Show Me, Daddy. Slade has hit rock bottom. His band fell apart, and he doesn't know what to do now. His bank account is empty, but his pride won't allow him to ask or accept offered help from his friends. When his best friend Jordan asks him to come to a housewarming party; he's not thrilled, but can't turn Jordan down. Jack runs his club, The Lodge, and has little outside of work. When his brother Doug asks him to come to a housewarming party, he agrees thinking he'll leave early and head back to the club. Slade and Jack meet on Doug and Jordan's doorstep, and Jack can't seem to leave Slade to his self-destructive ways.
I loved how Jack just can't seem to leave Slade alone even when it goes against everything he has told himself for years. I loved that he gave Slade the direction that he needed to start sorting out his life and that Slade starts finding small moments of happiness as he starts seeing things through a new perspective. I loved Jack's friend, William, and how he gave Jack some hard truths when he needed them. I also love how Eli and Doug are able to open Jack's eyes to more of Slade's needs.
This story flowed so well and I loved these two together. I can't wait to see who else from Jack's club get a story moving forward. I really hope that Sam is next.
*** Copy provided to me by the author for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
I've been hoping for this book since we met Slade in Show Me, Daddy. Slade has hit rock bottom. His band fell apart, and he doesn't know what to do now. His bank account is empty, but his pride won't allow him to ask or accept offered help from his friends. When his best friend Jordan asks him to come to a housewarming party; he's not thrilled, but can't turn Jordan down. Jack runs his club, The Lodge, and has little outside of work. When his brother Doug asks him to come to a housewarming party, he agrees thinking he'll leave early and head back to the club. Slade and Jack meet on Doug and Jordan's doorstep, and Jack can't seem to leave Slade to his self-destructive ways.
I loved how Jack just can't seem to leave Slade alone even when it goes against everything he has told himself for years. I loved that he gave Slade the direction that he needed to start sorting out his life and that Slade starts finding small moments of happiness as he starts seeing things through a new perspective. I loved Jack's friend, William, and how he gave Jack some hard truths when he needed them. I also love how Eli and Doug are able to open Jack's eyes to more of Slade's needs.
This story flowed so well and I loved these two together. I can't wait to see who else from Jack's club get a story moving forward. I really hope that Sam is next.
*** Copy provided to me by the author for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
September 16, 2020
The writing was good characters not so much
The writing was very good, the pacing was a bit off but it’s basically an instalove story so that usually happens. I just didn’t like the characters. Jack crossed the like too often into condescending Daddy, while Slade was a wispy-washy brat the whole time. It’s clear that Slade didn’t know what he wanted and Jack telling him over and over it was to be in a power exchange was always borderline for me. Spades real kink wasn’t revealed until the final chapters of the book which is too bad because once Jack figures it out he was a much better Dom character. The author promised more to come with these characters reoccurring in future books but I doubt I’ll be interested.
Sadly, I also didn’t read much positives about the series next two characters Corey and William. I’m going to start the book but I’m not overly excited about it like I usually am when an author hunts at new characters.
I will say there is a high trend sense of realism to these characters they are deeply flawed and have doubts that are on the page. Still this is an erotic gay love story with kink, I’m not sure I like reading pages and pages of the Dom questioning himself—do they in real life—absolutely, but they don’t instalove in RL so the character balance is off for me.
The writing was very good, the pacing was a bit off but it’s basically an instalove story so that usually happens. I just didn’t like the characters. Jack crossed the like too often into condescending Daddy, while Slade was a wispy-washy brat the whole time. It’s clear that Slade didn’t know what he wanted and Jack telling him over and over it was to be in a power exchange was always borderline for me. Spades real kink wasn’t revealed until the final chapters of the book which is too bad because once Jack figures it out he was a much better Dom character. The author promised more to come with these characters reoccurring in future books but I doubt I’ll be interested.
Sadly, I also didn’t read much positives about the series next two characters Corey and William. I’m going to start the book but I’m not overly excited about it like I usually am when an author hunts at new characters.
I will say there is a high trend sense of realism to these characters they are deeply flawed and have doubts that are on the page. Still this is an erotic gay love story with kink, I’m not sure I like reading pages and pages of the Dom questioning himself—do they in real life—absolutely, but they don’t instalove in RL so the character balance is off for me.
March 2, 2021
While I liked it,
There seemed to be a Mismatch between what I perceived and what the characters thought. It also felt like I missed out on a chunk of story and when I blinked, the book was done a very little really happened.
Furthermore, my problem with these kind of interconnected stories is, that I always like a character in their own book but find them annoying and condescending as side characters in other books.
*mild spoilers*
In this book in particular, both Jordan and William got to me. I’m sure the author meant their roles to be supportive, but to me they both came across as pushy and critical. Not to mention Jordan especially was a super unreliable friend, althoug this could just be Slade’s perspective on it. Same with William, I kept waiting for Jack to explain his behaviour to William, which I thought stemmed from different fears than what William accused him of, but then all Jack did was accept William’s criticisms at face value.
In the end, I’ll still try the next book, to see if my perceptions change as the series progresses.
There seemed to be a Mismatch between what I perceived and what the characters thought. It also felt like I missed out on a chunk of story and when I blinked, the book was done a very little really happened.
Furthermore, my problem with these kind of interconnected stories is, that I always like a character in their own book but find them annoying and condescending as side characters in other books.
*mild spoilers*
In this book in particular, both Jordan and William got to me. I’m sure the author meant their roles to be supportive, but to me they both came across as pushy and critical. Not to mention Jordan especially was a super unreliable friend, althoug this could just be Slade’s perspective on it. Same with William, I kept waiting for Jack to explain his behaviour to William, which I thought stemmed from different fears than what William accused him of, but then all Jack did was accept William’s criticisms at face value.
In the end, I’ll still try the next book, to see if my perceptions change as the series progresses.
March 4, 2020
This is a great start to a new series and I really enjoyed it. Rules to Live By is well written, sexy, funny, sweet, the storyline is intriguing, I like the characters, the Daddy/Boy dynamic is well done and there is a nice balance of interaction between the characters that is not only about sex but includes a lot of talking and them just being together. Slade and Jack are complete opposites but they are exactly what the other needs even though it takes them both a little while to figure that out. They have a few issues to deal with and they have good friends to help them along the way. The secondary characters are amazing and the ending is good but it is a HFN that I hadn't expected. I wish that there was more background information about both of the MC's but overall this story is interesting, flows very well and I can't wait to read the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
March 12, 2020
This was the interesting start to a new series. Slade is cocky but insecure, out of options but unwilling to let anyone help him. Then he meets Jack, workaholic owner of a kink club. Jack won't leave him alone to wallow, and Slade begins to thrive under the older man's attention and rules.
I really liked both characters, and I thought Jack was way more patient with Slade than I could be. Slade really could be such a brat! Jack got as much from this new relationship as Slade, and it was nice to see the people around Jack notice these changes and encourage him in his new relationship.
There was the beginning of a D/s relationship here, but not really a lot of BDSM. I expect to see more of that as Jack and Slade's bond strengthens throughout the series. I'm looking forward to seeing that, as well as learning more about some of the supporting characters introduced here. I think it is going to be good!
I really liked both characters, and I thought Jack was way more patient with Slade than I could be. Slade really could be such a brat! Jack got as much from this new relationship as Slade, and it was nice to see the people around Jack notice these changes and encourage him in his new relationship.
There was the beginning of a D/s relationship here, but not really a lot of BDSM. I expect to see more of that as Jack and Slade's bond strengthens throughout the series. I'm looking forward to seeing that, as well as learning more about some of the supporting characters introduced here. I think it is going to be good!
February 25, 2020
I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5. The only reason I did that was because I had a little trouble with how fast things happened between the two MC's. From their very first meeting Daddy Jack took control. In retrospect, I see that was what Slade needed for him to do. Once I got past that, the story flowed easier for me.
Slade flourished under Jack's hand and Jack himself learned that he wasn't living life to it's fullest. Working 24/7 was turning him into a standoffish jerk. Slade gave him a reason to get out of that pattern. It was nice to see the Daddy needing the boy as much as the boy needed the Daddy.
This is the start of a new series for Quinn. I am eagerly awaiting to see what she does with a certain bartender.
Slade flourished under Jack's hand and Jack himself learned that he wasn't living life to it's fullest. Working 24/7 was turning him into a standoffish jerk. Slade gave him a reason to get out of that pattern. It was nice to see the Daddy needing the boy as much as the boy needed the Daddy.
This is the start of a new series for Quinn. I am eagerly awaiting to see what she does with a certain bartender.
February 29, 2020
Excited for More
I really enjoyed this book. Having met both Slade and Jack previously, I was very curious as to how these two very polar opposite characters would interact. Jack is the ultimate Daddy - stern but loving, mature but sweet. He is a bit overworked, and desperately needs a boy to help remind him to enjoy himself. I adore Slade, and just want to cuddle him. He is incredibly insecure, and so much in need of rules and love! The daddykink in this book was fantastic - lots of care and comfort, rules, and some insanely hot scenes between the sheets. I especially loved the hint of what is to come, and I really hope to see more of Slade and Jack as they explore Slade being a middle. Yay Daddy Jack!
I really enjoyed this book. Having met both Slade and Jack previously, I was very curious as to how these two very polar opposite characters would interact. Jack is the ultimate Daddy - stern but loving, mature but sweet. He is a bit overworked, and desperately needs a boy to help remind him to enjoy himself. I adore Slade, and just want to cuddle him. He is incredibly insecure, and so much in need of rules and love! The daddykink in this book was fantastic - lots of care and comfort, rules, and some insanely hot scenes between the sheets. I especially loved the hint of what is to come, and I really hope to see more of Slade and Jack as they explore Slade being a middle. Yay Daddy Jack!
October 2, 2020
I really liked the idea of this book, but it's like it was just getting good when it ended. There were some chapters I found myself skimming because it was rather dull just talking to friends and not a lot of action. I found I did like the characters of Slade and Jack. But I felt like there was a lot missing. Like there was a lot of "This is what COULD happen" but then it doesn't. I do feel that a lot of the back story comes from the other stories connected to the fake town they live in and you may need to read those in order to really understand the whole world. All in all I thought was a good starting point for the Slade and Jack relationship and I would like to see more of it. Maybe explore the age play some more.
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