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Private Encounters
The Billionaire's Game
A one-night mistake. A high-stakes deal. A game neither man expected to lose.
Theo never meant to crash an elite auction—let alone become the prize. Struggling, broke, and just trying to survive, he stumbles into a world of power and control... and into the sights of Dominic Cross.
Dominic is a billionaire who always gets what he wants—and tonight, what he wants is Theo.
What starts as a forced arrangement turns into a week of unexpected chemistry, emotional tension, and slow-burning desire. Theo’s not just a fantasy anymore. And Dominic? He’s breaking his own rules.
But when the seven-day deal runs out, what happens when playing the game feels more real than walking away?
The Billionaire’s Game is a high-heat M/M escort romance packed
✦ Billionaire x escort dynamic
✦ Forced proximity & power play
✦ Hidden vulnerability & emotional heat
✦ A seven-day deal that turns into something more
✦ Bonus content inside for deeper backstory
Perfect for fans of steamy short reads, forbidden M/M connections, and romance with real emotional payoff.
Theo never meant to crash an elite auction—let alone become the prize. Struggling, broke, and just trying to survive, he stumbles into a world of power and control... and into the sights of Dominic Cross.
Dominic is a billionaire who always gets what he wants—and tonight, what he wants is Theo.
What starts as a forced arrangement turns into a week of unexpected chemistry, emotional tension, and slow-burning desire. Theo’s not just a fantasy anymore. And Dominic? He’s breaking his own rules.
But when the seven-day deal runs out, what happens when playing the game feels more real than walking away?
The Billionaire’s Game is a high-heat M/M escort romance packed
✦ Billionaire x escort dynamic
✦ Forced proximity & power play
✦ Hidden vulnerability & emotional heat
✦ A seven-day deal that turns into something more
✦ Bonus content inside for deeper backstory
Perfect for fans of steamy short reads, forbidden M/M connections, and romance with real emotional payoff.
55 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2024
44 people are currently reading
896 people want to read
About the author
Ryan Moore
49 books71 followersThe Billionaire’s Game just hit #1 in 3 categories! 🎉 Free to download—> https://a.co/d/7qDMgiZ
Ryan Moore is the #1 bestselling author of steamy M/M romance stories that mix irresistible heat with heartfelt emotion. Based in Seattle, Ryan writes short, punchy reads perfect for devouring in an hour—from forbidden age-gap hookups to impulsive dating app flings.
When he’s not crafting tales of slow-burn seduction and explosive chemistry, Ryan can be found kayaking, hiking, or fueling up on too much coffee. He lives in West Seattle with his golden retriever, Alex, who’s always nearby during late-night writing sprints or early morning plotting walks.
Dive into the Private Encounters series and discover your next obsession.
Ryan Moore is the #1 bestselling author of steamy M/M romance stories that mix irresistible heat with heartfelt emotion. Based in Seattle, Ryan writes short, punchy reads perfect for devouring in an hour—from forbidden age-gap hookups to impulsive dating app flings.
When he’s not crafting tales of slow-burn seduction and explosive chemistry, Ryan can be found kayaking, hiking, or fueling up on too much coffee. He lives in West Seattle with his golden retriever, Alex, who’s always nearby during late-night writing sprints or early morning plotting walks.
Dive into the Private Encounters series and discover your next obsession.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 3, 2025
With only a few tiny adjustments, this would have easily been a 5 star rating. As it is, I’ll give it 4.
You might know by now that I love Ryan’s stories, the writing and the buildup. Even in around 50 pages, he manages to write an entire book’s worth of relationship buildup (and plot). And it would have been the same here, all it probably would have needed is a bit of editing or proofreading.
The story is about Theo, a student in desperate need of money, and Dominic, a mid 30s CEO/billionaire.
The premise was a bit strange: Theo is a waiter at a high end event, and accidentally stumbles into an auction when he tries to sneak away for a break. But… being auctioned off and actually immediately agreeing to everything? Why? Even if he insists to “set his terms”, it’s a strange way to start. I’m all here for a steaming erotic fantasy, you know that, but if have preferred it if Theo would have agreed upon it beforehand, his lack of money should be incentive enough to make it plausible. Like… he could have accidentally found an invitation to the event/the auction, or could have searched on a platform for easy ways to make money. It would have made sense, and would have fit the plot twist towards the end.
And then - and it pains me to say it- there were e few issues that could have been resolved with editing. Like… At one point, Dominic’s expression in his eyes doesn’t quite reach his lips. Literally 1 page later, his smile doesn’t quite reaches his eyes. Or repeating the fact twice that there’s no personal stuff in Dominic’s apartment.
On the other hand… “I don’t need to break you”(…)” I’ll make you want to bend”? 🔥🔥🔥
So hot.
While it wasn’t my favourite short story by Ryan due to the niggles I mentioned, I’ll still round my 3.5 stars up. Why, you ask? Because I love his writing style, and I rate short stories differently than full length books. And because I’m pretty sure the editing issues I’ve had will be resolved in future editions ☺️
You might know by now that I love Ryan’s stories, the writing and the buildup. Even in around 50 pages, he manages to write an entire book’s worth of relationship buildup (and plot). And it would have been the same here, all it probably would have needed is a bit of editing or proofreading.
The story is about Theo, a student in desperate need of money, and Dominic, a mid 30s CEO/billionaire.
The premise was a bit strange: Theo is a waiter at a high end event, and accidentally stumbles into an auction when he tries to sneak away for a break. But… being auctioned off and actually immediately agreeing to everything? Why? Even if he insists to “set his terms”, it’s a strange way to start. I’m all here for a steaming erotic fantasy, you know that, but if have preferred it if Theo would have agreed upon it beforehand, his lack of money should be incentive enough to make it plausible. Like… he could have accidentally found an invitation to the event/the auction, or could have searched on a platform for easy ways to make money. It would have made sense, and would have fit the plot twist towards the end.
And then - and it pains me to say it- there were e few issues that could have been resolved with editing. Like… At one point, Dominic’s expression in his eyes doesn’t quite reach his lips. Literally 1 page later, his smile doesn’t quite reaches his eyes. Or repeating the fact twice that there’s no personal stuff in Dominic’s apartment.
On the other hand… “I don’t need to break you”(…)” I’ll make you want to bend”? 🔥🔥🔥
So hot.
While it wasn’t my favourite short story by Ryan due to the niggles I mentioned, I’ll still round my 3.5 stars up. Why, you ask? Because I love his writing style, and I rate short stories differently than full length books. And because I’m pretty sure the editing issues I’ve had will be resolved in future editions ☺️
May 20, 2025
Theo never planned to crash an elite auction—let alone become the prize. Broke, overworked, and just trying to survive another night, Theo stumbles into a room where he doesn't belong. A room where power plays aren't metaphorical and the stakes are as personal as they are dangerous.
Dominic is wealthy, ruthless, and always in control. Until Theo. What begins as a forced agreement spirals into something neither man anticipated: seven days of guarded tension, smoldering desire, and unraveling secrets. But when one impulsive decision reveals Theo as more than just another pawn in Dominic's world, both men must confront the truth about what's real—and what's merely part of the game. One man with nothing to lose. One with everything to hide. Seven days that will change everything.
The last thing Theo expected when he walked into the room to serve drinks, where the event was being held, was to find himself being auctioned off and then being won by a domineering bidder. His entire life, Dominic has always got what he wanted, so he immediately figured ways to bid on and win Theo. This led to them coming to an agreement. Theo felt out of sorts with everything going on and was trying to get back some control, but Dominic has a overly domineering personality so it was difficult to keep any of the control.
I thought this was something that appeared that Theo hadn't agreed to do, so why would it ever work? It almost seemed like something unlawful. I wasn't surprised that their "budding romance" hit a stumbling block. Theo made a discovery that shocked him to his very core, and he walked away. I thought "smart man"...but surprise...I was wrong. Theo realized that he actually had feelings for Dominic and decided to take the risk. Maybe they could have a chance at a happy relationship.
This was, in spite of being a tad unbelievable...an intensely powerful romance story. There was a bit of humor thrown in. Depending on your level of belief, this either was an interesting way to meet the "love of your life" or your next "serial killer"...but as the saying goes..."all's well that ends well".
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
Dominic is wealthy, ruthless, and always in control. Until Theo. What begins as a forced agreement spirals into something neither man anticipated: seven days of guarded tension, smoldering desire, and unraveling secrets. But when one impulsive decision reveals Theo as more than just another pawn in Dominic's world, both men must confront the truth about what's real—and what's merely part of the game. One man with nothing to lose. One with everything to hide. Seven days that will change everything.
The last thing Theo expected when he walked into the room to serve drinks, where the event was being held, was to find himself being auctioned off and then being won by a domineering bidder. His entire life, Dominic has always got what he wanted, so he immediately figured ways to bid on and win Theo. This led to them coming to an agreement. Theo felt out of sorts with everything going on and was trying to get back some control, but Dominic has a overly domineering personality so it was difficult to keep any of the control.
I thought this was something that appeared that Theo hadn't agreed to do, so why would it ever work? It almost seemed like something unlawful. I wasn't surprised that their "budding romance" hit a stumbling block. Theo made a discovery that shocked him to his very core, and he walked away. I thought "smart man"...but surprise...I was wrong. Theo realized that he actually had feelings for Dominic and decided to take the risk. Maybe they could have a chance at a happy relationship.
This was, in spite of being a tad unbelievable...an intensely powerful romance story. There was a bit of humor thrown in. Depending on your level of belief, this either was an interesting way to meet the "love of your life" or your next "serial killer"...but as the saying goes..."all's well that ends well".
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
May 4, 2025
Tease!
Unlike the others, this short story left it all unsaid. Curiosity, intrigue, and excitement at thinking up all these different scenarios for their past, present, and future.
Lots of questions and no answers, just plenty of space for you to use your imagination to fill in the gaps. Really good!
I read the extras from Dominic’s POV, and here we do get answers. Which, for my overactive mind, was a blessing. I would have been thinking about the what-ifs all day! 😂
Once again, great writing from Ryan Moore.
Unlike the others, this short story left it all unsaid. Curiosity, intrigue, and excitement at thinking up all these different scenarios for their past, present, and future.
Lots of questions and no answers, just plenty of space for you to use your imagination to fill in the gaps. Really good!
I read the extras from Dominic’s POV, and here we do get answers. Which, for my overactive mind, was a blessing. I would have been thinking about the what-ifs all day! 😂
Once again, great writing from Ryan Moore.
May 17, 2025
ARC review ❤️
Man all I can say is that I can’t wait for the day Ryan will bless us with a full-blown novel. The way he writes is just something else—it’s beautiful, imaginative, mysterious and will leave you wanting more. The emotions between the two characters is so palpable ughhh I wish I could read more about Theo and Dominic!!!
And the conversations! It felt like I was watching a movie where the characters would get into deep conversations, like nothing exists, just the two of them. I really liked it. :)
Man all I can say is that I can’t wait for the day Ryan will bless us with a full-blown novel. The way he writes is just something else—it’s beautiful, imaginative, mysterious and will leave you wanting more. The emotions between the two characters is so palpable ughhh I wish I could read more about Theo and Dominic!!!
And the conversations! It felt like I was watching a movie where the characters would get into deep conversations, like nothing exists, just the two of them. I really liked it. :)
May 13, 2025
Mr Moore has mastered the craft of setting traps for his readers. He lures you in with his main story but leaves quite a bit unspoken and veiled. If you want answers (and you’ll surely want them), you’ll have to pick up the follow-up stories.
In “Billionaire’s Game”, nothing is what it seems at first glance including the auction where Theo is “sold” to a man who’d never participated in this kind of bidding before. I enjoyed author’s deception and feeling as confused and disoriented as Theo who was led before a crowd of high and mighty people but was able to set his own rules…
A brave young man and a wealthy gentleman who was smitten by his stubbornness formed a compelling pair in this mysterious and clever chess game of life.
In “Billionaire’s Game”, nothing is what it seems at first glance including the auction where Theo is “sold” to a man who’d never participated in this kind of bidding before. I enjoyed author’s deception and feeling as confused and disoriented as Theo who was led before a crowd of high and mighty people but was able to set his own rules…
A brave young man and a wealthy gentleman who was smitten by his stubbornness formed a compelling pair in this mysterious and clever chess game of life.
May 4, 2025
Pick your moves carefully. Theo accidentally walks into the wrong room, next minutes he's at an auction, and he's the next item up for bid. That pleases one man in the room, pleases him very much, Theo . . Not so much. A fun short read with a HFN.
April 28, 2025
The Heart Wants What it Wants -
The last thing Theo expected when he walked into the room holding an event to serve drinks, was to find himself being auctioned off and then being won by a domineering bidder. Dominic always got what he wanted, so he immediately took steps to win the bid on Theo, which led to them making an agreement. As Theo felt out of sorts with everything going on he tried to get back his control, but Dominic’s domineering personality made it difficult to keep the control.
Unfortunately, Dominic and Theo’s budding romance hit a snag when Theo made a discovery that shocked him to the core and led him to walk away. However, Theo realised his true feelings for Dominic during his time away and decided to take a risk with his heart, so they could have a chance at a happy relationship. This was a powerful and intense romance story, with a bit of humour thrown in to make it an enjoyable read. All I can say at this point is keep up the great work Ryan, because I am now a devoted fan of your books.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
The last thing Theo expected when he walked into the room holding an event to serve drinks, was to find himself being auctioned off and then being won by a domineering bidder. Dominic always got what he wanted, so he immediately took steps to win the bid on Theo, which led to them making an agreement. As Theo felt out of sorts with everything going on he tried to get back his control, but Dominic’s domineering personality made it difficult to keep the control.
Unfortunately, Dominic and Theo’s budding romance hit a snag when Theo made a discovery that shocked him to the core and led him to walk away. However, Theo realised his true feelings for Dominic during his time away and decided to take a risk with his heart, so they could have a chance at a happy relationship. This was a powerful and intense romance story, with a bit of humour thrown in to make it an enjoyable read. All I can say at this point is keep up the great work Ryan, because I am now a devoted fan of your books.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 13, 2025
I read through the story twice. As a novella, it gives you a bit to snare you in, and you want to know more. Finding someone who sees you, wants to get to know the real you, and shares experiences that matter, that's the start of a relationship. No matter your economic background, it's finding common ground.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book.
April 30, 2025
Theo is bought by Dominic, but doesn't know why. The deal is for one week, but Theo stumbles across some information Dominic didn't share with him. Their chemistry is raw, real, and very palpable. Communication is poor, and Theo just leaves. Can these two communicate and return to hot city and smexy time together???
July 18, 2025
Dominic is dominate, Theo defiant, but this isn't a Dom/Sub story. What starts out as a game, or challenge, becomes so much more. As walls come down, and they really SEE each other, they can't deny the pull they feel towards each other. Another great book from Ryan that makes me want more. He is so good as writing stories and characters, that I find myself surprised at the details he manages to fit in a short story. I'm looking forward to Ryan's next book. I suggest subscribing to his mailing list to get all his extra content.
May 13, 2025
MONEY TO BURN
Money can't buy happiness. Toys, Security, Trips to exotic places. Yes to all. Happiness is an elusive emotion that we seem to all crave. Dominic was a powerful rich billionaire. He had everything money could buy. Theo is a hard working young man just trying to get by. Seeing Dominic for the first time stunned him. These two had a power play neither one wanted to give into. This Book is intriguing.
Money can't buy happiness. Toys, Security, Trips to exotic places. Yes to all. Happiness is an elusive emotion that we seem to all crave. Dominic was a powerful rich billionaire. He had everything money could buy. Theo is a hard working young man just trying to get by. Seeing Dominic for the first time stunned him. These two had a power play neither one wanted to give into. This Book is intriguing.
July 2, 2025
ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review. Thanks to the author for the opportunity.
Having read first the prequel to this story, it is not easy to link Dominic's behavior in this story with what we get to know of him in the prequel Before the Game. That Dominic is much more reserved/calculated in his every action and also a bit phobic on unexpected/undemanded touch from his sexual partners. So it really is a fresh breath of air that he actually bids on someone at these illustrious auctions and gives Theo so much freedom and leeway. Their chemistry is thick in the air from the start and their compatibility becoming clearer with every interaction. Though the crackling and sizzeling heath is more from the anticipation of what's to come/develop between Dominic and Theo, than actually on page heat.
Having read first the prequel to this story, it is not easy to link Dominic's behavior in this story with what we get to know of him in the prequel Before the Game. That Dominic is much more reserved/calculated in his every action and also a bit phobic on unexpected/undemanded touch from his sexual partners. So it really is a fresh breath of air that he actually bids on someone at these illustrious auctions and gives Theo so much freedom and leeway. Their chemistry is thick in the air from the start and their compatibility becoming clearer with every interaction. Though the crackling and sizzeling heath is more from the anticipation of what's to come/develop between Dominic and Theo, than actually on page heat.
April 29, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This book is a part of a MM short story collection. Each book is a standalone.
Dominic is a billionaire and always get what he wants. He has his sights on Theo.
Theo is working as a waiting for a party. He never ment to be a part of the auction. Now he's going home with Dominic for a week.
Dominic is a billionaire and always get what he wants. He has his sights on Theo.
Theo is working as a waiting for a party. He never ment to be a part of the auction. Now he's going home with Dominic for a week.
July 6, 2025
Well
Loved the book but left me hanging with NO WHERE TO GO.... What the heck. What happened to them. I hate that. Now, searching for where it continues and IT DOESN'T!!!
Loved the book but left me hanging with NO WHERE TO GO.... What the heck. What happened to them. I hate that. Now, searching for where it continues and IT DOESN'T!!!
July 20, 2025
Theo and Dominic
This was an interesting story. I wish it were longer. I would like to understand the characters better. I enjoyed the dynamic. I enjoyed the push and pull. I would've liked more.
This was an interesting story. I wish it were longer. I would like to understand the characters better. I enjoyed the dynamic. I enjoyed the push and pull. I would've liked more.
July 28, 2025
I have to start to admitting that M/M romance is not my thing, but I was asked by the author if I would read this book. With that said, if you are in to M/M romance, I REALLY think you'll enjoy Ryan's writing style! The storyline draws you in and leaves you wanting the rest of the story!
July 28, 2025
Enticing...
The Billionaire's Game by Ryan Moore is an enticing introduction to a titillating game of seduction. I definitely need a follow up; more of the story...
Romance - ❤️
Steam - 🔥🔥
Humor - 🤣
Angst - 😭😭😭
Writing - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Billionaire's Game by Ryan Moore is an enticing introduction to a titillating game of seduction. I definitely need a follow up; more of the story...
Romance - ❤️
Steam - 🔥🔥
Humor - 🤣
Angst - 😭😭😭
Writing - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
July 6, 2025
The Billionaire’s Game is a steamy and emotionally charged MM romance that dives deep into themes of control, vulnerability, and trust. From the very start, Dominic’s intensity is palpable he’s used to getting what he wants, and when he sets his sights on Theo, there’s no backing down.
But Theo isn’t so easily won over. His mistrust acts as both shield and barrier, making the push and pull between him and Dominic all the more gripping. Their dynamic is electric, Dominic’s need to protect and claim Theo colliding with Theo’s refusal to be anyone’s possession. It’s a clash of wills that drives the narrative forward with simmering tension.
Ryan does an excellent job balancing the raw, possessive energy of Dominic with moments of tenderness, while allowing Theo’s journey toward trust to feel earned. The emotional payoff is worth the struggle, making The Billionaire’s Game a compelling read for fans of possessive romance with a vulnerable edge.
But Theo isn’t so easily won over. His mistrust acts as both shield and barrier, making the push and pull between him and Dominic all the more gripping. Their dynamic is electric, Dominic’s need to protect and claim Theo colliding with Theo’s refusal to be anyone’s possession. It’s a clash of wills that drives the narrative forward with simmering tension.
Ryan does an excellent job balancing the raw, possessive energy of Dominic with moments of tenderness, while allowing Theo’s journey toward trust to feel earned. The emotional payoff is worth the struggle, making The Billionaire’s Game a compelling read for fans of possessive romance with a vulnerable edge.
August 6, 2025
Second time around and I enjoyed this story as much this time as the last but it was nice to be able to read it after reading Before the Game.
I'm not usually a big fan of shorts but this series has captivated me. I'm looking forward to more of these shorts.
May 28, 2025
It started off strong, but I just didn’t feel much chemistry between Dominic and Theo, even though the plot seemed like it could’ve gone somewhere interesting if it had been developed more.
June 24, 2025
this was my second read on the series. the plot did not grab me as much as the first book. grayson and logan were captivating, just did not warm as much to Dominic and Theo as people.
April 28, 2025
A new style of writing for Ryan Moore.
Intentional stripping away of information to keep us all in the dark, even Theo. As if sentences, information and dialogue once written, were masterfully plucked away to keep us all guessing. Intriguing, dark and deviant.
Even the slow unraveling gives just enough to keep reading and guessing.
The mind game manipulation was strong here. Dom's silences, Theo's queries (and the reader's total w-t-f mind state) made this short story a puzzle to be solved. Personally I had at least 4 different story lines of what ifs, trying to get to possibilities and outcomes, some good, some bad some terrifying.
Well played Mr. Moore😉
Another 5/5 star read
R.M, you've spoiled us, I cannot wait to get my eyes on your extras on this story :D
EDIT: thoughts from the bonus material.
AUCTION ORIGINS - DARK BIDDING
Deviant minds, deviant, bored billionaires.
A very interesting take on what was on offer in these auctions.
This entire piece offers information we never knew we needed yet completes the image of what we observed in The Billionaire's Game.
The unexpected was the exact thing expected.
I'm humming in glee, thank you R.M.for putting back the information we didn't have. It makes so much sense now.
PAPER HEARTS - Dominic's Story
Filling some of the negative space we missed from the original story. We get more of Dom's p.o.v and feelings.
This story is the epitome of 'if you love someone, set them free'.
And all at once gives us an ending to a beautiful love story we hardly observed but knew about. We get to fill in our own blanks of kisses and intimacy we never saw but know there was plenty of.
Absolutely lovely ending.
Intentional stripping away of information to keep us all in the dark, even Theo. As if sentences, information and dialogue once written, were masterfully plucked away to keep us all guessing. Intriguing, dark and deviant.
Even the slow unraveling gives just enough to keep reading and guessing.
The mind game manipulation was strong here. Dom's silences, Theo's queries (and the reader's total w-t-f mind state) made this short story a puzzle to be solved. Personally I had at least 4 different story lines of what ifs, trying to get to possibilities and outcomes, some good, some bad some terrifying.
Well played Mr. Moore😉
Another 5/5 star read
R.M, you've spoiled us, I cannot wait to get my eyes on your extras on this story :D
EDIT: thoughts from the bonus material.
AUCTION ORIGINS - DARK BIDDING
Deviant minds, deviant, bored billionaires.
A very interesting take on what was on offer in these auctions.
This entire piece offers information we never knew we needed yet completes the image of what we observed in The Billionaire's Game.
The unexpected was the exact thing expected.
I'm humming in glee, thank you R.M.for putting back the information we didn't have. It makes so much sense now.
PAPER HEARTS - Dominic's Story
Filling some of the negative space we missed from the original story. We get more of Dom's p.o.v and feelings.
This story is the epitome of 'if you love someone, set them free'.
And all at once gives us an ending to a beautiful love story we hardly observed but knew about. We get to fill in our own blanks of kisses and intimacy we never saw but know there was plenty of.
Absolutely lovely ending.
August 19, 2025
“You’re not going to break me.”
“I don’t need to break you. I’ll make you want to bend.”
Theo Marlowe, 23, is working as a cater waiter at a bougie event. It’s a part time gig, as Theo is working his way through college.
Dominic Vale, mid-thirties, is handsome and polished, with grey eyes and dark hair. Taller, pale, and quite affluent.
The secret auction. Theo’s terms…
The arrangement.
Sharing damage.
The penthouse. The country house.
Dominic enjoys playing music and hunting; Theo loves art and design.
The Files.
High Heat is beyond misleading. Still looking for any heat, though this is promising and well-written.
Strong dialogue. Enjoy Moore’s idiosyncratic style. Not a bad thing; just feels as though there’s additional subtext we aren’t made privy to.
HFN conclusion is on the thin side, so it’s nice to see that there is a follow-up.
“I’m not some…prize for you to claim, Dominic.”
“That’s where you’re wrong. You already are a prize. You just haven’t figured out what you’re worth yet.”
“I don’t need to break you. I’ll make you want to bend.”
Theo Marlowe, 23, is working as a cater waiter at a bougie event. It’s a part time gig, as Theo is working his way through college.
Dominic Vale, mid-thirties, is handsome and polished, with grey eyes and dark hair. Taller, pale, and quite affluent.
The secret auction. Theo’s terms…
The arrangement.
Sharing damage.
The penthouse. The country house.
Dominic enjoys playing music and hunting; Theo loves art and design.
The Files.
High Heat is beyond misleading. Still looking for any heat, though this is promising and well-written.
Strong dialogue. Enjoy Moore’s idiosyncratic style. Not a bad thing; just feels as though there’s additional subtext we aren’t made privy to.
HFN conclusion is on the thin side, so it’s nice to see that there is a follow-up.
“I’m not some…prize for you to claim, Dominic.”
“That’s where you’re wrong. You already are a prize. You just haven’t figured out what you’re worth yet.”
May 1, 2025
A boy, one night, doing extra work as a waiter at a party, enters a room and there he finds something he didn't expect.
This novel explores control, both that exercised by others and his own. The two characters start from experiences where in their childhood they did not have it and when they reach adulthood, one controls everything and the other, although it does not seem so too. They fight for control of the relationship to realize that the only thing they have to do is to let themselves go.
This novel explores control, both that exercised by others and his own. The two characters start from experiences where in their childhood they did not have it and when they reach adulthood, one controls everything and the other, although it does not seem so too. They fight for control of the relationship to realize that the only thing they have to do is to let themselves go.
June 19, 2025
When Theo accidentally stumbles into an auction while waiting tables, he has no idea what is about to happen when billionaire Dominic "wins" him. Theo somewhat agrees due to having current financial trouble but didn't realize what being with Dominic really meant. He lives up to his name while being extremely dominant and wanting to break Theo in all of the good, sexy ways. It is a little over the top, but that's what brings this story together.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
July 11, 2025
"He’s a billionaire used to winning. But this time, his heart’s on the line."
I’ll be honest, this one felt the most tropey to me. The whole billionaire dynamic was a little predictable, and some of the emotional beats didn’t hit as hard as I hoped. But the writing kept me engaged, and there were still moments of real vulnerability from the characters that I appreciated. It’s a fun, fast-paced read if you like possessive billionaires and steamy hookups with a hint of corporate intrigue. Not my favorite in the series, but still enjoyable.
I’ll be honest, this one felt the most tropey to me. The whole billionaire dynamic was a little predictable, and some of the emotional beats didn’t hit as hard as I hoped. But the writing kept me engaged, and there were still moments of real vulnerability from the characters that I appreciated. It’s a fun, fast-paced read if you like possessive billionaires and steamy hookups with a hint of corporate intrigue. Not my favorite in the series, but still enjoyable.
May 25, 2025
INTENSE! I feel out of my element, not sure what to say. The silences between Theo and Dominic, the spaces in the story, not quite knowing what is happening between them at any time yet knowing something is seething underneath. Ryan Moore has left so much of this story off the page, and yet you know it is there, angry and smoldering, controlling and hypnotic; give me more. Yes, hypnotic is the word as the author entices his reader, gives a bit of emotional play and past reminiscence and then back to the power plays. Dominance and control, but this is no S/M story, not the dear Marquis De Sade nightmare. Both characters are looking for something, and in the denouement it is clear that they have found it in each other, perhaps HFN.
While reading I found myself in-and-out of the story, trying to reconcile my own feelings and the characters', trying to come up with possibilities for the story and for Theo and Dominic; it was like trying to guess the ending of a mystery story and not having a butler to pin it on. So good! Have to read the bonus background 'freebie', and I'll get back to you.
OK. Just read 'Dominic's Story: Paper Hearts', Moore's 'freebie' background. Now I understand more about the game, more about the themes of control and vulnerability. "He reached out, hand settling at the nape of Theo's neck—not possessive, but grounding."
No games, no running. A little sigh/sob from me, ok maybe another little crack in my spackled-together loner's heart. I'm satisfied again by this writer.
PPS. Belatedly read the other Ryan Moore bonus story I had missed earlier. 'Dark Bidding' gives a closer look at the auction itself, from its beginnings 15 years before Dominic locked eyes with Theo, to the carefully researched and choreographed selection of participants and bidders. Dominic while being on the 'inside' of the elite game, has never actually participated. Theo, as he had realized in the main story, had been guided into the game, but was almost a last minute insertion, less thoroughly vetted, an uncertain variable. That these two men connected instantly across a crowded room shook up the dynamics of the game and the men themselves. Fated lovers who rose above a controlled environment and found each other in ways that couldn't be predicted.
Intricately plotted, detailed, the imagination of this author leaves one stymied. You must read for yourself to appreciate such strategic artistry.
While reading I found myself in-and-out of the story, trying to reconcile my own feelings and the characters', trying to come up with possibilities for the story and for Theo and Dominic; it was like trying to guess the ending of a mystery story and not having a butler to pin it on. So good! Have to read the bonus background 'freebie', and I'll get back to you.
OK. Just read 'Dominic's Story: Paper Hearts', Moore's 'freebie' background. Now I understand more about the game, more about the themes of control and vulnerability. "He reached out, hand settling at the nape of Theo's neck—not possessive, but grounding."
No games, no running. A little sigh/sob from me, ok maybe another little crack in my spackled-together loner's heart. I'm satisfied again by this writer.
PPS. Belatedly read the other Ryan Moore bonus story I had missed earlier. 'Dark Bidding' gives a closer look at the auction itself, from its beginnings 15 years before Dominic locked eyes with Theo, to the carefully researched and choreographed selection of participants and bidders. Dominic while being on the 'inside' of the elite game, has never actually participated. Theo, as he had realized in the main story, had been guided into the game, but was almost a last minute insertion, less thoroughly vetted, an uncertain variable. That these two men connected instantly across a crowded room shook up the dynamics of the game and the men themselves. Fated lovers who rose above a controlled environment and found each other in ways that couldn't be predicted.
Intricately plotted, detailed, the imagination of this author leaves one stymied. You must read for yourself to appreciate such strategic artistry.
July 10, 2025
Very short, but packs a heck of a punch. Theo stumbles into a billionaire escort auction and is mistaken for one of them, and he's 'bought' for a week by Dominic. A cat and mouse game ensues, with secrets and hidden lives changing for the better and worse. I enjoyed the chemistry between Theo and Dominic. Excellent story. I enjoyed the sense of menace that wasn't menacing in the end. And as for the ending? So good.
September 20, 2025
This was a very short story that I was a little confused about and then it just ends.
Theo is a student working as a waiter at this event and then on break he stumbles upon an auction where he is auctioned off to a millionaire named Dominic. What??
There is no sexy time in this story. Only dialogue between the two characters. Which is fine, but I just couldn't get into it.
Theo is a student working as a waiter at this event and then on break he stumbles upon an auction where he is auctioned off to a millionaire named Dominic. What??
There is no sexy time in this story. Only dialogue between the two characters. Which is fine, but I just couldn't get into it.
May 14, 2025
I thought this book was going to be like the other billionaires stories that I've read. It failed me. I'm not into BDSM and this book reminded me of this. To my dismay, I bought the entire series! I sincerely hope that the rest of the series isn't like this book.
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