The Sweetest Taboo: An Unconventional Romance

by Harper Miller

New York City, Late Summer 2009

Like many single women who reside in the city that never sleeps, Micah Foster has had numerous encounters with undesirable men that make her want to renounce love. Just when she’s on the verge of calling it quits in her quest to find love and a sustainable relationship with a Dominant man, her friend Kisa requests her company for a girl’s night out at Spanxxx, a local fetish club. Both Kisa and Micah are seasoned submissive players in the BDSM lifestyle. Micah has been involved in the scene since her early twenties, but she has yet to meet a Dominant she meshes with and takes seriously. Now, at age thirty, she continues to search for a connection that repeatedly eludes her. Under duress, she crosses paths with Dominant Rick Thomas. Unusual and dire circumstances bring the pair together, and he’s exactly what Micah has been searching for.

The Sweetest Taboo is aptly titled. It’s an unconventional erotic love story that provides a different perspective of a relationship involving D/s and BDSM. The reader will follow Micah and Rick’s journey from beginning to end. You’ll laugh, you’ll be turned on, and most of all, you’ll find yourself cheering for their love.

*Disclaimer* If rough sex, an interracial pairing (Black woman/White man), D/s, and BDSM are of no interest to you, you should bypass this story. Intended for a mature and kinky audience. Recommended for adults 18+.

Genres: BDSM, Erotica, Interracial Romance, Romance, Erotic Romance, M F Romance, Contemporary

187 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 27, 2014

About the author

Thanks for visiting my little slice of Goodreads heaven!

This is the part where I provide readers with a little background info about moi. Here it goes...

Harper Miller is a native New Yorker who pens love stories that occasionally merge the sentimental and provocative. She’s traveled the world and lived in a variety of places but always finds her way back to the Big Apple. A lackluster love life leaves time to explore new interests; for Harper, it is writing romance.

She’s a former member of the Romance Writers of America, serving for two years on the board of the New York City chapter as Vice President of Communications. She’s served as an Associate Editor and columnist for the Pink Heart Society a monthly online magazine for readers and writers of books with lots of heart. Harper is also one of the co-creators of the Queer Romance PoC Collective.

When she isn’t writing, Harper utilizes her graduate degree in the field of medical research. She enjoys pop culture trivia, fitness-related activities, drinking copious amounts of wine, and going on bad dates.

Why romance? Hmm, well, I write because I see stories as mini-movies playing in my head, and I’m crazy sappy. I’m the type of woman who watches the Hallmark channel with a box of Kleenex on standby. Friends to lovers trope FTW! I also write because we need more PoC & LGBTQIA+ persons front and center as main characters in romance. Representation matters!

Reviews

[Shurrn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweetly kinky romance for lovers of strong submissives...

A love story can begin anywhere, and ours began the night I saved her life.

Couple of things right of the bat - I love how this couple met, and the gradual build up of trust and respect throughout their relationship. They were freakin' adorable and impossibly sexy in equal measure.

It was easy to feel the love grow between these characters.

In the Prologue we have the opportunity to see this couple's HEA, and with the first chapter, we rewind three years to the night they met.

Micah Marie Foster
sexual submissive
Assistant registrar at the Whitney Museum

Sure, my long-term goal was to find the right Dom, but i'd rather wait for something real. i'm no doormat and have few self-esteem issues; if you feel the need to try and belittle me to get your rocks off, i am not the one for you.

Micah was such a fun and approachable character - she was strong minded, quirky, and completely charming. She has an awesome sense of humor, a love of 80's music, vintage video games, and art.

She's not your average little sub - she is in her early 30s, experienced (in life, love, and kink), she's driven, and she doesn't take shit from anybody. She knows what she wants, and she's not going to settle for anything less.

She is reluctantly dragged to a fetish club by her best friend, and winds up having a severe asthma attack in the middle of the club. Lucky for her, one of the Doms in attendance happens to be a gorgeous doctor.

He saves her life,
Sweeps her off her feet,
and changes her entire life in the process...

Dr. Richard Thomas, MD
Dominant
Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine

"...If a man deems a woman worthy, He will make her His. He will fight for her. He will honor her. He will provide for her. He will protect her. I believe paths are meant to cross at certain points in time. People meet eachother when they're supposed to. It's what the universe wants."

Rick breaks the mold of the unapproachable, cold as ice Dom which seems to be quite prevalent in contemporary erotic romance. He was warm and honest with a sense of humor and playfulness which complimented Micah perfectly. He wasn't looking for anything serious on the night he met Micah - he didn't want to settle for something short term.

He's looking for the real deal, folks. The perfect woman who will bow to him at home, but take on the rest of the world with a fiery passion. He wants a sub, partner, best friend, and wife... He knows that he's looking for a needle in a hay stack, so he's been content to live his life and have the occasional kinky sexual encounter to sate his appetite while he waits for the perfect woman to present herself.

He's clearly attracted to Micah, but once he discovers that she might be The One, he lays all his cards on the table. He's looking for forever and if she can't handle that, she should walk away.

These two begin a relationship which seamlessly blends sweet romance and hot kink. It was absolutely enjoyable and will leave a smile on your face!

I had a single problem with this book.
It resulted in my decision to give this a 4-Star rating rather than a 4.5...
The prose took some getting used to on my part.

my Master looked like a starving Man. i guess in theory that was true: i was His meal, and He was ready to devour me.

The D/s custom of using case-sensitivity to denote one's role a D/s relationship (see quote) was used throughout the ENTIRE book. While I believe that the style of writing (generally seen in message boards rather than novels) could be appropriate when demonstrating the mindset of a character during a sexual scene, it seemed out of place and a bit distracting when used constantly.

See, Micah Foster is a sexual submissive, but she's assertive in her business. She bends to the will of her Dominant, but she's no slave... So the idea that she would think in such terms while at work just didn't make sense to me.

This is one of those subjective things which stood out to me, but other readers might not take notice of. I just feel I should mention it.

***I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***

[Musings of A Romance Junkie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sweetest Taboo: A Review

Before I get into the meat of this review, let me preface things by saying I’ve never considered myself a fan of BDSM. I always thought it was a brutish, ridiculous act of sexual deviancy. WRONG! NOPE! GIRL BYE! You see, the problem was, I was reading books about BDSM that only caricaturized brutish, sexually deviant acts. There was never proper explanation of what embodies a healthy, consensual, dare I say romantic BDSM relationship. There was always those stories of a dominant who manipulates their sub into the lifestyle, or the naïve, unknowing submissive eager to please their dom not fully understanding the dynamics of the relationship nor the lifestyle. Well, let me tell you: This story blows all of that out of the water! This is a love story y’all! Not just a story about a dom/sub who go through a bunch of deception and drama only to finally find their way to one another in the last chapter or epilogue of the story, but a love story about two, mature adults who have a red hot instant attraction and mutually agree to enter into a partnership filled with exciting adventures of tasty romance and unbridled kink.

Rick is a handsome, charismatic physician looking to settle down with a woman who will not only agree to be his sub, but also his life partner. He is a grown man doing grown man things! Micah (love that name) is a beautiful, assistant curator for a museum. She’s looking for a dom who will not only cater to her needs sexually, but one who will treat her with respect as a woman and as a true partner in the relationship. Rick and Micah meet in a BDSM called Spanxx under the most unusual of circumstances: She’s having a life-threatening asthma attack, and he’s the doctor who saves her life (See, go in for some kinky loving, and leave with some tender-loving care). What happens next are the beginnings of a very fruitful relationship.

This story is told from alternating first-person points of view which I love. I like to get into the characters’ heads and experience what they’re feeling as it unfolds. Rick is so smooth in his approach while Micah remains firm in maintaining her sense of self outside of the relationship. There are also some good supporting characters in this story, particularly Rick and Micah’s parents. Rick’s mom brought the real when speaking with Rick privately about the ramifications of interracial relationships, etc (Although I was side-eying her hard for that protect your assets spiel after the whole talk about IR relationships…). That being said, she is a mom, and a shrewd businesswoman so…And Micah’s father was on point too: over-protective, let-me-find-out-if-you’re-worthy kinda dad…

While I overall enjoyed the story of Rick and Micah, I admit I did find the dom/sub dynamic initially a little off-putting. The capital letter/small letter thing did take some getting used to as the womanist in me was screaming out NO Micah, don’t allow yourself to be belittled like that. But...I had to fall back and remind myself the nature and context of this story. I found Rick to be a very attentive, giving and romantic lover. The scene where he shows up to Micah’s job was so sweet yet hilarious. He was about to chin-check that guard (who was secretly crushing on Micah). Doms will be doms… 

I do recommend The Sweetest Taboo if you love good old-fashioned romance. Not all “romance” involves flowers and candy and dinners at restaurants. Love comes in many different methods and forms, and I love how a chance encounter blossomed into this unconventional love affair. And the best part? The epilogue... Swoon...

***Advanced copy provided in exchange for honest review ***

[Mspraise50 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author but I am sure it will not be my last.

This is Micah and Rick's story. Although this story has a BDSM and Dominant/Submissive theme it is essentially a love story. The story was engrossing and moves at a quick pace. These are the elements I love about a good book. The story should grab me from the first page and not waste words. The author did not overload us with unnecessary narrative which I for one appreciated. Everyone word was relevant and important to the story.

I liked the book because it dealt with the relationship between Micah and Rick. The book shared with us their thoughts, feeling and emotions about their relationship and how the Dom/Sub theme added and enhanced their relationship. The book also informed us what the Dominant/Submissive relationship is not!!! Micah is no walk-over, she is a strong, sassy woman which is why Rick is attracted to her.

Rick: "My pretty girl had become everything to me and I would love her, honour her, and protect her and my family until my last days on earth"

It was a very romantic read and I thoroughly enjoyed it and stayed up late to finish reading it.

I would highly recommend this very romantic story!

[Mstcat · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book that I'm reviewing today is the Sweetest Taboo, and it's the author's debut novel. From it's title to the characters, The Sweetest Taboo was a fantastic little story and honestly if this is the author's first book, then I can't wait to see what she churns out the more seasoned she becomes.
There are a few things that you as readers should know right out of the gate. First, this is a BDSM romance. It isn't anything too heavy and it is tastefully done. If you're not open to the idea of BDSM then this may not work for you, but I hope you don't let that turn you off though. The Sweetest Taboo is one of the most well-written and romantic BDSM books that I've read in awhile. The second thing that you'll need to know is that the writing style is a bit different. The author chooses to always capitalize Rick and any references to him as a way of illustrating his status as a Dominant. Micah and any references to her are written in lower case as a way of illustrating her status as a sub.  There are inevitably going to be reviews that complain about this but the author gives forewarning. It takes a second to adjust to, but it doesn't take a way from the story, and after all it is the author's book. I respect her creative license.

In The Sweetest Taboo we have Micah. She's a professional woman in her 30s. This is the first thing that I like about the story. Micah isn't just out of college, or broke, or some poor, down-trodden woman in need of saving. Nope, none of that. What she is, is a woman who is making it quite nicely on her own, with a good job. She knows herself and she knows that she enjoys living "the lifestyle." She's been a submissive since her early 20s and after a disappointing relationship she's looking for the man that will be the perfect Dom for her. The fact that she knows who she is and what she wants is yet another plus for me when it comes to this character and the story in general. The beginning of the story finds Micah and a friend (who'll have her own book soon I'm hoping) at a club that's holding a submissive auction. Micah plans to take part for a little fun even if she isn't really holding much hope of finding the Dom of her dreams just yet. She immediately catches the eye of a handsome Dom named Rick. There is something about Micah that captures Rick's attention and curious to find out what it is, he plans to bid on her during the auction. Unfortunately, an emergency situation topples both of their plans, but puts them directly in each others path and in a way, into one another's life. As Rick gets to know Micah, he becomes more certain that she is exactly what he's been looking for and he pursues her. Although they both haven't had the best of relationships, they each see the possibility of having a great relationship together, both as a couple and as a Dom/sub as well.

The story-line sounds pretty basic and simple, and that's because it is. This isn't a bad thing though. The story isn't overly complicated or mysterious. What you see is what you get, but don't get confused here. We get two very mature acting adults who want specific things and aren't afraid to go for it. Rick is a little more of a go-getter than Micah in that respect, but her hesitancy isn't just irrational fear. She's not about wasting her time or getting involved with someone who isn't after the same things that she is after. It was refreshing to read about adults being adults, wrapped in some pretty good story telling.

As a freshman book The Sweetest Taboo was able to achieve something that a lot of other authors fail to accomplish - write a BDSM book that's also a sweet love story. I never felt this was a BDSM story that was written just for sake of it. Harper Miller pulled off what those other writers couldn't. She wrote a BDSM book that I could love. It is at the heart of it a love story between two people who enjoy a not-so-vanilla lifestyle. There was no doubt that Rick loved and respected Micah and that she loved and respected him in turn.

I wholeheartedly recommend reading this book if you're a fan of  BDSM, if you enjoy light BDSM, or want to give reading about it a try. You'll be pleased that you did and you'll be rewarded with a well written, and a sweet, story. Plus you'll have discovered an awesome new author to keep an eye on. I'm giving The Sweetest Taboo a 4 out of 5 rating.

Read more of my thoughts on IR and AA romance at Romance Between the Covers

[Monica **can't read fast enough** · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE SWEETEST TABOO was a wonderfully erotic BDSM love story. I'm not overly fond of quick reads, but Miller was able to wrap a complete and thoroughly enjoyable read in under 200 pages. There were no holes in the story, no missing plot, no questions left hanging mid air. THE SWEETEST TABOO is a tightly written and fulfilling contemporary erotic tale that will suck you in and leave you completely satisfied in the end.

The story is written in a manner that I haven't encountered before and took a bit of getting used to. Personal and proper nouns are capitalized or not according to who is being referred to even in third person. For example when referring to Rick He, His, and Me are always capitalized denoting his Dominant status.Whereas when referring to Micah she, me, my and her name are always in lower case denoting her submissive status. This rule also extends to the secondary characters if they are part of the D/s lifestyle.

Micah is a 30 year old professional woman confident in her abilities and sure in what she wants in a personal relationship. Although a submissive, Micah takes control of her wants and needs and will not settle for less than the right Dom to offer the gift of her total submission and trust to. Micah's last long term relationship was with a man who didn't understand or respect her needs and she is determined not to waste more time on a man who is not worthy of receiving what she has to give. When Rick begins to pursue her she is still a bit leery of his intentions and whether or not what he is offering is real. Rick is offering her what she has been longing to have for years, a committed and monogamous long term relationship. Micah has to decide if she is going to allow insecurities and an abundance of caution to cost her what may be a once in a lifetime opportunity to find a partner that is not only interested in supporting her very specialized needs, but revels and thrives in the D/s lifestyle.

Rick is a successful doctor and Dom who has been burned by love and has stepped away from committed long term relationships. However, after his first harrowing interaction with Micah he knows that he has found the woman who will make him reconsider what he wants. What I loved about Rick is that he isn't afraid to aggressively pursue Micah and heeds his instant attraction to her. Micah isn't a leggy, long haired woman that normally grabs his attention and Rick enjoys her differences.

Things move quickly between Micah and Rick but it feels completely plausible. When Rick tells Micah "I'm looking for her; My obedient vixen, My lover, My friend, My wife, My everything." I was totally sold on him. (Yeah, I'm a sucker but I totally embrace that about myself!) Everything between the two is consensual and done with mutual respect. I very much look forward to more books from Harper Miller and hope that this is just book 1 in a series. There are two secondary characters that would make interesting stories. Micah's best friend Kisa is a submissive on the hunt for her perfect Dom and Rick's friend Josh is a Dominant who's tastes definitely run toward the outer limits of what I will probably be comfortable with. However, after reading THE SWEETEST TABOO I will definitely trust Harper Miller to take me on that journey. If you are looking for a well written and sexy erotic BDSM love story THE SWEETEST TABOO is definitely a winner. This one is going on my favorites list!

You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/

[Savannah- Quad Motherin' Book Readin' Diva · Rating 2 out of 5]

Really, this is more of a 2.5, but Im rounding down for overall impression.

As stated in my update response to Tina, the problem I ultimately had with this story is that it reads more like Kink For Dummies or something along those lines. I think the author was so busy educating us about the basic facts of this lifestyle, she kind of let the love story slip through the cracks. The h/h's exchanges read more like a series of job interviews than dating or a relationship and the constant use of the "Sir" thing just kept smacking me in the face and making me want to roll my eyes. I get that its not about demeaning her. I get that its mutual power and all that. Its just seemed silly to me to hear somebody in a supposedly loving relationship doing some mundane daily crap like passing the salt or saying hello yet addressing their loved one as "Sir". Incongruous. I get it happens.But,....ya. Silly as shit to me. Cant be helped.

I knew this was going o be a stretch or me subject wise so honestly ,NO points off for that because the author did forewarn us as readers. My issue was with the telling of their love story since I am walking away with it feeling like I dont know either of these people or WHY they fell for each other beyond the fact that they were compatible in this one area.

I definitely felt the author's desire to educate us that this goes beyond the bedroom. However that message kept getting garbled by the fact that the D/s particulars seemed like all they ever discussed. Then we have the fact that when the hero decides to tell the heroine he truly loves her, he makes a conscious decision to drop the kink that night. If this is a way of life, it is what it is. I think having this guy feel the need to show his seriousness and depth of emotion by insisting she call him by his given name for the night and basically having "vanilla" sex to cement the bond is contradictory to the books overall vibe.

I also felt some kinda way about the child thing, how they were choosing to tweak their interactions in front of them. I dont disagree that its necessary. To me though that would be some.....cause for reflection on my part I guess. You don't want your daughter thinking its normal to call ya husband Sir? Well, gee- why not? Lol If thats who you are.....I admit to skimming after that point,but again- I had no emotional investment in their HEA.

Not horrible,just not for me.

[Allyn Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was gifted an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

For The Sweetest Taboo to be Miss Miller's first foray into authoring, she put her best foot forward. I loved the premise of the story and was very excited to see the bits and pieces of visuals via social media. We meet the heroine, micah (I'll take a page from the author's novel and refer to her in lower case), and Rick (again, taking a page from the author's writing style) first in a very hot prologue that made me want to quickly turn the page/the hands of time and see how these two got to the prologue. I liked how Miss Miller gave me a glimpse of the characters outside the playroom ... we see them interacting with friends, family, and co-workers. micah was funny and over time, showed me her personality traits which I found endearing and so not what I've read in the few BDSM novels.

Miller's novel showed me that BDSM was much more than blindfolds, playrooms, and nipple clamps. There's love and the people who fall in love who enjoy something a little extra sexually.

The one drawback was my preference for more of the scenes we're told about but happened off camera. I'm a greedy reader and would have loved if those scenes were on my Kindle pages for me to experience.

Harper, thank you for sharing your world with us.

[DeeReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

New author, Harper Miller wrote an excellent IR BDSM/romance. I loved Micah and her "not me, the low self-esteem sub." Micah was a sharp but thirsty submissive who knew exactly what she wanted after having to come into contact with so many fake doms.

Rick, the hero made this book so worthwhile for me because he wanted a true sub to be his pretty little girl to love in the BDSM lifestyle. He had grown tired of sampling different subs. Rick wanted his own submissive to meet his needs as well as the sub's desires.

I loved this book and I highly recommend it. Miller's writing style did not throw me off at all. It simply denoted the couple's d/s TPE *TOTAL POWER EXCHANGE* dynamic. Rick and Micah's relationship was genuine with the kinks and fetishes of a true BDSM relationship but the book was more than the sex for me. I, myself enjoyed watching them grew together in their relationship.

5 stars all the way

[Teri · Rating 3 out of 5]

I came across The Sweetest Taboo in my search for an interracial romance that included a black female. The pickings were slim. I “sampled” the Sweetest Taboo and didn’t find it too sweet. I found the strict D/s protocol adherences in the book’s style to be off-putting because I didn’t understand them so I chose another book. A few months later, I revisited the sample, hoping time would make me optimistic enough to finish the book. Second time’s the charm! 

This was a refreshing read. A lot of romance books that contain a D/s elements follow the “rich billionaire discovers weak white damsel in distress” narrative. The Sweetest Taboo gave me a much-needed break from that narrative. Although Rick does meet Micah in a time of need, she isn’t a weak, helpless maiden for the entire book. Furthermore, Rick allows her to live her life, doesn’t pop up in spaces with the potential to compromise her integrity, and expects her to have a life outside of “the Life.”

I also found Micah to be a breath of fresh air. When authors finally do write a story with modern black women as main characters, they tend to be “overdone”. These “overdone” women fall into one of two categories:

A.) loud, ghetto, common, overdramatic, stereotypical, expected to be uneducated, and often hyper-sexualized by other characters

B.) stuck up, horrible attitude about life, bitter, uptight, the only character with major hang-ups

Micah is neither. While her healthy sexual appetite is acknowledged, it doesn’t make up who she is. Her relatability made her a pleasure to read.

Since I liked Rick and Micah so much, I wanted more of them. The story is only about 190 pages long and is framed as whirlwind romance. While their relationship is considered “unconventional”, I would have liked to see more of their courtship process. Where are the cute conversations? What memories did these two make other than sex? 

This may not have been a complaint if Miller didn’t have so many wasted words. She spends a lot of time describing pre-encounter jitters and nerves. Miller will start to describe one character’s point of view and suddenly backtrack or skip to something else and it confused me at times. Although we know things come out well in the end, what’s the use of telling us about all these feelings and friction if we don’t get to see the characters at ease?

Being that The Sweetest Taboo is an interracial romance, you eventually expect Micah and Rick’s ethnicity to be addressed. Unlike other authors, Miller once again gives just enough to satisfy. Thankfully, there were no overt bigots in this story although the possibility of others having “problems” with Micah and Rick was recognized. 

For my first Harper Miller read, it was cute! Definite will be sure to read more of her in the future.

Happy Reading!
Teri

[L.V. Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's a lot to love about The Sweetest Taboo!

I love Rick and micah. I love how he doggedly pursued her after a chance sighting at a BDSM club where he intervened during a medical emergency. I absolutely love how, despite each of them having strong feelings for each other early on, they held out and didn’t say what they were feeling because they wanted to be sure. I love how Miller schooled us in the finer points of the lifestyle in this book. I loved how micah and kisa were such great BFFs. I loved Rick’s and micah’s parents and the input they had into their lives. It’s a sad fact, but interracial couples still have to live in a world that is marred by racism. Their parents loved them enough to caution them about how other people might feel.

The sex scenes were hot and that’s where Miller was able to really shine in showing. One thing that really thrilled me was how Rick expected micah to only be submissive to him and not be some shrinking violet that everyone could walk over. I wanted to stand up and cheer when he said, “I want her to be kicking ass and taking names,” when she’s not with me. I think a lot of people have misconceptions about BDSM based on a lot of fictional accounts of the lifestyle, so this was a fresh alternative to the stories where Doms are painted as cave men and subs are painted as mousy women who have no backbone.

As a first book it was not without its mechanical issues, however, this book is one I will keep in my arsenal of research material for how a BDSM relationship with a side of romance should look. Many kudos to you, Author Harper Miller.

I received an ARC of this book and provided my objective review.

[CoCoFierce · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first debut novel from Author Harper Miller and boy does she make her presence known. First let me say that when writing bdsm rarely do authors get it right. Harper sets herself apart from the rest not only does she get it right she weaves an unconventional tale of love, romance, with a bit of kink. This story first starts off with the couple micah and Rick telling their love story for an interview which then transcends into the story you read. Before I get into my review the author does offer an explanation as to why certain names are capitalized and not. This is a part of the D/s relationship and while I will admit it took some getting used to the lower case i and the heroines name it made sense for the overall theme of the book. This is a very unconventional love tale and please don’t let the theme of bdsm detour you for reading this novella. This is a very mutual beneficial relationship and very different from any other bdsm tale you may have read.

Enter Master Rick,

Rick notices her before she ever notices him. Visiting a popular bdsm club in the city to let off so stem Rick can’t seem to keep his attention off of micah. Which is a good thing because she literally falls at his feet. Being the Dom that he is Rick saves micah’s life that night and cant seem to stay away. Although micah is physically attracted to Rick she has her guard up and afraid to let herself love and trust again after the duds she has had in the past. As to not give much a way micah and Rick’s courtship is not your usual. These two are very much into the lifestyle and while a usual first date may be dinner and drinks mich and Rick enjoy a playroom instead.

One of the things the authors does well is that the characters inner dialogue give readers a glimpse into the world of bdsm. micah is no one’s doormat she is a strong Independent woman who has her own ideas and life. While she does love to serve her man it’s by choice not because she is forced into anything. Rick is a true Alpha-male assertive without being domineering. Because a good D/s relationship is about trust Rick tries to grow his relationship with micah and because of that their shared level of intimacy is a bit stilted. Don’t get me wrong this book is anything but vanilla let’s just say that Rick although the Master of Kink his is still very traditional and respectful of micah and their relationship. One of my favorite scenes in the book besides the epilogue was a cute shared moment between the two when micah wasn’t all dolled up as Rick is used to seeing her. When speaking about IR relationships authors rarely explore all that comes with dating a black woman. For example our headscarf. I love that Harper made this a part of this book and in such a funny way.

As I mentioned previously trust is essential to their relationship while Rick enjoys pushing micah’s soft limits and testing the waters to help her grow He still has his own issues to deal with. I thought at times Rick was a bit hypocritical he wanted her to give but something was holding him back. Because micah is who she is Rick’s behavior doesn’t go unnoticed and it takes a good talking to from his mother and micah’s attitude to bring him so clarity. I do like how we as readers got to see how both families reacted to the couple being an IR couple and coming from two vastly different backgrounds. I felt their interactions with each other just being a couple should have come earlier in the book because at times the relationship felt a bit mechanical. For instance things happen with very little background information given. I understand these two had to grow into their relationship but so much was given to the characters inner dialogue that I felt more should have been communicated between the two. Don’t get me wrong that when these two do come together I mean really come together its wonderful you can feel the love and respect these two have for each other. I just wish it came a bit sooner in the story. For instance when these two reach a deeper bond and connection than ever before Rick levels the playing field by allowing them to be themselves (just a man and a woman) her name is even capitalized which in my mind makes her his equal. It's hard to be venerable but it seems before it was just her now that they are equals and he can be vulnerable as well. This poses an interesting juxtaposition between D/s on one hand it’s great that the couple can just be who they are without the add on’s on the other it makes it seem as though she was never really his equal after all the couple had been through.

I would say this book defines the sensual side of bdsm and the author does offer a different perspective. But more in depth interaction between the characters is needed because it leaves you to wonder if this strong connection is sexual or deeper because as a reader I felt it should have been explored more. Scenes are described like they talked on the phone or about this and that but as a reader we aren't privy too what's being discussed. But then you think it's more than sexual because they haven't had penetration. Harper Miller’s unconventional love story is one I would recommend. This story is not what you will expect and that’s what makes it so brilliant. I know all the hard work this author put into her work and it shows. This book was well edited, the characters were very well developed and complex. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this author. If I may ask can we get Kisa’s story next?

Your’s in Kink,

Coco Fierce
xoxoxox


*****ARC Given In Exchange For An Honest Review*****

[Spunky N Sassy · Rating 5 out of 5]

~~~Zarah's Review~~~

My obedient vixen, My lover, My friend, My wife, My everything

I received this title courtesy of Sweet and Sassy Book-Aholics for an honest review

For a debut novel, The Sweetest Taboo is really well done! I have read many BDSM books but none quite like this one.

Both Rick and Micah have been hurt in the past but when they meet and come together their relationship moves very quickly. Whether right or wrong, who can judge how quickly things should move in each individuals relationship. The internal dialogue of each of the characters is also really well done - you can clearly see that although he is very much the Dominant Alpha Man, Rick has the same doubts, fears and vulnerabilities as the next person and while the ever obedient and eager to please submissive, Micah definitely has a mind of her own.

I would have thought that the inter-racial aspect would have come out more - but surprisingly the only ones who seemed to have a small problem with it was their families. I did feel that it was a bit rushed at the end, but maybe that was just me not wanting the story to end and to see more of their relationship develop rather than go to the epilogue.

I did find the style of writing a little off-putting though. The Author does explain her reasons for this so I understood what she was doing and thought it was clever writing, but I did find it a little odd to have sentences start in lower case during the submissive dialogue and then capitalisations in the middle of sentences during the Dominants dialogue. I know that this is how things work in the BDSM community - but it is something I personally struggle with.

Obviously Harper has done her homework on this one and it shows! It is a great read with complex and interesting characters, steamy sex scenes and if you are looking for something a little different, then this is a great read.

~~~~~Sara's Review~~~~~

This was my first book I have ever read from this author and I can say she Has a new fan in me, What a great story. I have never read a BDSM book where there was actually respect to the fullest and romance. Usually it is demeaning and brutal. But this story was an actual love/BDSM book and takes us on the journey of how Micah and Rick have come together. I need to stand up and give Harper a round of applause because she went outside the norm for a BDSM story and made you love the story and the couple. I never describe the entire book in my reviews since you really need to read this book. You too will fall in love with Micah and Rick.

~~~Michelle's ★★★★★ Review~~~

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this book. I am huge fan of BDSM and The Sweetest Taboo did not disappoint. Rick is a gorgeous and captivating man who also is a physician – he is kind, smart, loving and every bit of an Alpha Dominant. Micah is a beautiful submissive, who is smart, witty and feisty when she wants to be, and all she wants is to have real relationship. The dynamics between them is different than what you see in most BDSM books and I absolutely adored them.

Miller does an excellent job in creating their story and keeping the book flowing. It’s fast paced but you never feel like there are pieces missing. Miller keeps you glued to the book waiting for what happens next…and you won’t be disappointed. Reading the different POVs of what each person was thinking during each interaction gives you the insight you need to fall in love with them. Who doesn’t love a true romance book…..No one I know….. Nothing is sweeter and more refreshing than a true romance story, regardless of the genre, and Rick & Micah’s journey is one of the greatest that I have had the pleasure of reading.

Kudos to Harper Miller on this outstanding book! Can’t wait to see what else she brings us!

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**

3.5 stars

As a debut novel by an Independent Author, I give mad props for a solid and enjoyable read. I liked this for a few reasons. Though, as a critical reader, I had a few problems fully connecting.

This is written in a unique style frequently found in the D/s community within message boards and chat rooms wherein pronouns and names of submissives are lowercase and those of dominants are uppercase in an effort to show place and respect. We’re not going to talk about how I know this! Therefore, the reader will find some odd case placement beginning and within sentence structure. It takes some getting used to, and can sometimes be jarring. However, I found this to be a bold and quite brave format that worked for me in overall tone and intent.

For the most part, the story was well constructed and organic. There were a few scenes that felt a little incomplete as they merged into others, but the pace was easily recovered.

I loved the characters. I thought they were well developed and nuanced just enough for the overall plot. As a greedy reader (and I mean REALLY greedy because I want to know EVERYTHING) I kind of wish there’d been a little less introspection and a lot more meaningful dialog between Micah and Rick as they built their relationship because D/s relationships require an immense amount of unfettered communication to work.

I loved how Micah is a strong and independent woman whose submissive nature is something she’s thought about deeply and knows is just a piece of her. She’s accomplished and capable in her own right—not the vapid, TSTL heroine often portrayed in BDSM stories. This was refreshing and allowed me to instantly respect her and want her story.

Rick…I liked him fine. He’s almost a little too perfect in the Romance Hero sort of way. But, for all that is him, he’s well grounded, intuitive, and shows a fun side. I almost feel the need to go faint outside a BDSM club….think that’ll work?

The story is interracial, a woman of color and her white lover. To me (white girl), I thought the few times this was touched on as a topic were very well done. I liked how how Micah’s family questioned Rick’s intentions and how Rick explained his love to Micah’s family. As an overall story line…it just doesn’t matter, it’s not a BIG THING. Micah and Rick fall in love and it’s plain ol’ believable love—as it should be.

On the sex and the kink element…Harper, I’m GREEEEDY. I don’t like sex scenes for the sake of sex…and I don’t want anything gratuitous or pages long freaky-business. But, this story could have easily supported one or two more kinkified playroom scenes and one or two more sweet-n-sweaty bedroom scenes. As the story progressed, it got a little more vanilla in the sex department while still maintaining D/s protocols in all else. I get it, sort of…or I think I do—but gimme!

Harper is an author to watch spread her writerly wings. There is some serious skill developing here and this book shows me that she’s fearless. I like that, and I’m going to be paying attention.


Also posted on BackPorchReader.com.

[Ally Web · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read any genre. I think it keeps things fresh. When I read romance, erotic romance, or even just erotica I tend to stay away from Dominant/submissive stories. Not for the reasons you may think - I just feel like they get it wrong. I know people in the lifestyle and I am very aware that D/s relationships aren't abusive. It seems so many authors write their D/s relationships with an abusive dominant. I won't lie, I was worried to start this story. Having never read anything by this author, I didn't know what to expect. Luckily, Harper Miller quickly put my worries to rest.

From the first few chapters, I was really hooked on this story. The characters are realistic and I loved how it showed their relationship in a positive light. It's not about complete control or degrading submissives unless noted previously. Micah is adorable but strong. She just seems like someone I could be friends with. I enjoyed Rick because he was powerful but respectful with a soft side. His character is what I've heard a good 'Dom' is from people in the lifestyle. I believe you should understand a lifestyle before trying to write about it and I think Harper Miller did a great job from my limited knowledge of the subject.

I haven't read many ebooks lately as the screen bothers my eyes, but I read this is small pieces. I didn't notice any errors in the story. Be sure to read the intro if you don't have prior knowledge of D/s relationships and talk. All around, I'm impressed with the story and I'm a bit sad that it's a standalone. I will be reading Harper Miller's short erotic stories and posting my reviews shortly.

[Tamara Williams Van Horn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sweetest Taboo: An Unconventional Romance The Sweetest Taboo by author Harper Miller, is a stunning debut BDSM novel depicting a BWWM D/s interracial romance. Rick and micah's relationship is neither unrealistic to the lifestyle, nor is it unrealistic to a fairytale or whirlwind romance you might hear about over brunch with your friends – and author Harper Miller's deft turn with the pin (“mesmeric”, though?) is certainly a refreshing addition to the IR/MC genre. Specifically, I really appreciate the intense amount of effort that went into both the packaging as well as the research – the cover is stunning (I want to be micah, and I want to be with Rick) and the very skillful editing. No spoilers here, but I hope that this author has an extremely bright future, and I look forward to reading many, many more of her books. Great craft! (Full disclosure – I am a beta reader for Ms. Harper Miller and received a free advanced review copy in exchange for an honest review)

[Lisa Tetting · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must say this book was just what the doctor ordered. I have been somewhat curious about the lifestyle of couples who indulge in BDSM, and though I know this is fiction, it seemed very authentic. Everyone needs love no matter their proclivities.

Rick was an overwhelming Master from the very beginning. He knew what he wanted and went for it, even if he had trouble expressing it to micha. Love at first sight is a very powerful thing and it is not for the faint at heart. I adored the way he cared for micha.

The extra touches like bringing her lunch to her office just because he missed her, or the massage because she was tired. Special things like that are not what one thinks about when thinking about D/s relationships. I loved how that set this couple apart. The story was a true love story, not just about kinks and sex.

I also appreciated the format the writer chose, i.e. Using capital letters when referring to Sir and lower case when referring to the submissive, even in the usage of pronouns. It must have been difficult, as we are so conditioned to capitalize all names.

This story resonated with me and I look forward to reading it again. Kudos Harper!

[Yvie Towers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is about a D/s relationship, but most importantly it is a love story - a real love story, and yes it is very sweet. Sure, there are hot scenes (which became increasingly more frustrating for me, but in a good way), but you'll see that this book isn't the typical boy meets girl, boy can't contain his lust for said bratty girl, huge fight, then resolution to a HEA. Not that there's anything wrong with those books - I read them all the time. However, this book really is about the love. Don't get me wrong though, the author wrote a strong, smart, sexy, Alpha male character that has just enough edge. The woman has edge too, but not so much that one would question her true nature. I suppose what I'm getting at is that there is an authenticity to this D/s story that you won't find in most. Oh yeah, and the author's ingenious and unconventional use of upper and lowercase letters... It took about 2 seconds to adapt to, but it adds so much to the characters' perspective. I'd have given this book 5 stars just for that; luckily, it's a great story too.

[Trickiegyrl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Micah is a submissive looking for her perfect Dominant. The game of love has not easy, but it becomes tougher when BDSM is your life choice. Not willing to give up on love, the search continues taking Micah to Spanxx, the local fetish club. Circumstances force a meeting with Rick, a dominant looking for his perfect submissive.

This is the retelling of their journey to the perfect relationship. It is told in each character's point of view and voice. That was interesting and refreshing to see the insecurities and strengths first hand.

Please keep in mind this is an erotic story. Sex scenes are explicit and plentiful, but they enhance the story. There are also elements of the BDSM lifestyle, so if that is not your cup of tea pass this one up.

Kudos to Ms. Miller on a well written debut novel!

[Sara Prevendoski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book I have ever read from this author and I can say she Has a new fan in me, What a great story. I have never read a BDSM book where there was actually respect to the fullest and romance. Usually it is demeaning and brutal. But this story was an actual love/bdsm book and takes us on the journey of how Micah and Rick have come together. I need to stand up and give Harper a round of applause because she went outside the norm for a BDSM story and made you love the story and the couple. I never describe the entire book in my reviews since you really need to read this book. You too will fall in love with Micah and Rick.


I was given an ARC through SNS for my honest review.

[Nicole Baylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC for my honest review. And OMG let me tell you, it was SO good!! I thought the format of the D/s dynamic was going to bother me reading but it truly didn't. In my opinion, it made it that much better. Especially with a scene around the holidays (I don't want to write any spoilers).
I thought it was well written and it was a nice view into that dynamic. I was hooked into the story from the very beginning. I have already recommended this book to a friend and I will recommend it to everyone!

[United Indie Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written! I enjoyed reading about Micah and Rick's story. They are both strong people in their own right. Their search for someone to be with in the D/s world has almost ended in defeat before they meet. Some of the BDSM scenes are rather intense. But on the whole I really enjoyed this book!

Reviewed by: Laura

[Desiree · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Harper's debut novel and I loved Rick and Micah's story. It's a D/S story with some light BDSM, and it's a nice romantic story. I really enjoyed the realistic conversations. I also liked the dynamic between Rick, the alpha who wasn't over the top, and Micah's spunky attitude and insecurities. They both were looking for something, and they found it in each other.

[Metris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Micah aka Pretty girl & Rick aka Master, a sub/Dom love story, very nice!

[ericia williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

I must admit the D/s genre is not really my thing to read. I didn't fall for the Grey's trilogy like every one else, but this story was beautifully told. How when you least expect it, everything you are looking for appears. Both were afraid to give love after past hurts but once they did it was a beautiful thing. It's my first time reading this author definitely won't be my last. I am hoping to find Micahs story and how she became a sub.

[Carolette Eady · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very nice eye opener

I chose this rating because the book had it all. Strong characters, hot sex, and a wealth of information about BDSM that I never knew. It was also fun and entertaining.

[Belle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet love story with BDSM D/s relationship :)　
Oprah Magazine紹介のBDSM本。D/s関係ありの現実的でスィートなラブストーリーで、読後感ほんわかハッピーでした😊　ヒロインが黒人でヒーローが白人なのが新鮮で好印象！　医師のヒーローが一目惚れしたヒロインの喘息発作を助ける事で始まる恋物語。　チョコ色の肌に映えるビビッドな色の服や靴の描写も楽しめた✨　　作者のデビュー本＆自己出版でこの出来は凄いと思う！　4カラットのプリンセスカットのダイアモンド、肌色の濃いヒロインに映えるだろうな～(*^▽^*)

[Avid Reader · Rating 2 out of 5]

Just too boring, I could not have cared less about Micah and Rick. No plot, no character development, no tension, there just was nothing to this story.

Get this, this is a romance with a D/s twist but Rick (the Dom) refuses to have intercourse with Micah, his submissive, for months. This is really odd because Micah lives with him during the entire time and she wants intercourse and is puzzled and angry over Rick's refusal. Rick does not want intercourse until he can confess his love for her. Really, how unbelievable is that in a D/s relationship and a romance book!

[Jules The Book Junkie Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The Sweetest Taboo by Harper Miller is a unusual BDSM novella. It is as much about the characters outside the playroom --interacting with friends, family, and co-workers— and how they met and fell in love, as it is about their sexual experiences together. Miller does her best to show that committed BDSM relationships are more than toys, props and playrooms.

The story is told in dual POV. It starts in present time, and then jumps back to the beginning of Rick's and Micah’s relationship as they tell their story in an interview. Although amply forewarned, I did find it difficult to get used to the writing style. Personal and proper nouns are capitalized or not according to who is being referred to even in third person (D/s).

Micah is a 30 year old confident, professional woman who understands exactly what she wants in a personal relationship. She is a submissive who will not settle for less than the right Dom. I love that this is story is about a mature woman.

Rick is a Dom who happens to be a successful doctor. He has been hurt by a past lover, and he has avoided committed long term relationships ever since. When he sees Micah across a crowded BDSM club, he is instantly attracted.

From the moment they meet, Rick’s and Micah’s relationship moves ahead rapidly. Rick quickly tells Micah, "I'm looking for her; My obedient vixen, My lover, My friend, My wife, My everything.” While the sex scenes are graphic and may not appeal to everyone, their activities are consensual. The scenes in which parents are met were charming. Neither set of parents is aware of their child’s sexual proclivities, and they each share with Rick and Micah their concerns for their relationship. The concerns are well founded, and it would be realistic for a caring parent to voice their concerns. The parents are not vilified and there is no major conflict surrounding the concerns. In fact, there is very little conflict in this story which left it a little dry in terms of tension build-up and resolution.

As and indie author, Harper Miller has done an excellent job with publishing her debut novel. A 3.5-4 star read for creativity in writing style and premise.

**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fan Site: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.NG***

[Ursula Carlisle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had been trying to read this book since Thanksgiving morning 12:21 am exactly and due to accidents, family drama and work I was being to think it would never happen, but I'm so glad it did. I'm not sure where to start on how much I enjoyed this book, I've read pieces of this author’s work before so I knew it would be good but this was even better.

While I normally don't read notes by the author to start off with I'm grateful that I did. I was a little concerned at first about the writing style and wondered if it would throw off the flow of the story for me but after reading the first chapter I realize that not only did it not interrupt the flow but knowing and understanding why it was written using that style enhanced the story for me.

I've read quite a few BDSM stories and to me in some of them the author sometimes struggles between telling a love story or a BDSM story. I feel that Miller did a great job of balancing both. While BDSM is a major part of the characters’ lives Miller let us see their love and respect for each growing while maintaining their lifestyle.

I loved the characters. I adored the strength, love, respect and compassion they showed not only for each other but for themselves. In a lot of books I've read lately I see the authors using the character’s action of jumping the gun or overacting to a situation to add additional drama to the story line and that’s okay, but it was a nice change to see both characters taking a step back and waiting to hear the other one out before reacting. I liked the change of there not being any additional outside other parties friction coming to play. The one thing I didn't get with the female character is while she was so strong and confident is why she continuously questions why he wanted her.

I recommend this book and this author and can say I hope to see more from her and I will most definitely be reading it.

[TinaNoir · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me feeling some kind of way.

Way out of my comfort zone that is for sure.

This book is about a D/s relationship. It isn't a BDSM book with all the spankings & such, even though Rick does have a 'playroom'. It really is a relationship book about a strong submissive who completely lives the life and her search for, and successful landing of, a caring Dom.

This was a very sweet book that alternates POVs between Micah, the female sub and Rick her Dom. Rick was simultaneously Masterful and nurturing, while Micah was strong minded about how she needed to cede control.

The two fall in love fairly soon, but take a while to admit it, mainly because they need to negotiate their relationship on two levels. One of course is the more conventional emotional relationship and the other is making sure they are a right D/s fit for each other. I liked how the author told both levels of that story.

It was also very sexy.

One thing I really appreciated was reading the author's foreword on using lowercase for Micah's name as well as any other references to her (even when she refers to herself in first person the I is in lowercase). Meanwhile all references to Rick is uppercase. While his proper name was expected, whenever Micah used pronounce such as 'Him' and 'He' they were also capitalized. It had the curious effect of giving him an almost Godlike quality. You really start to believe in him as Dom. It was rather fascinating.

Really good book, I recommend it even to people like me who get a little squiffy about D/s stuff.