Charlie North has neither the time nor the know-how for relationships, complications, or keeping someone happy. It's difficult enough to keep himself satisfied. He just needs something discreet without the hassle of connections. When he's slipped a business card to a club called Illusion, he has every intention of throwing it away, until...it starts burning a hole in his pocket.
He never expected the means to scratch an itch would turn into a wildfire of desire. The man behind the privacy panel leaves him craving more of the same—something he's never desired before. Will he get what he didn't know he was looking for?
Contains male chastity, coercion, sexual discovery, homophobic family member, and self-image issues.
I loved this so much It was so freaking good. The story was clever and unique. The spice is fire 🔥🔥🔥🔥. Some books the sex becomes repetitive or stops the flow of the story but definitely not here. It seamlessly entwines through the story and helps tell the story in a sexy and thrilling way.
The characters are well written Charlie, in the beginning is a mess. You get to watch how he slowly grows through out the book and learns to love himself through the exploration of sex.
I also like how it’s duel point of views At first I thought we were only going to be in Charlie’s head but later i got a nice surprise.
I know I already said this but I love this book It was so good I couldn’t put it down and was up late reading
I don't like saying this but I kinda hated it here.
While it had an interesting premise and there was some okay tension, the complete and utter lack of relationship building or romance coupled with Charlies generally snide and unpleasant inner monologue made this an unenjoyable read.
No matter how hot the sex scenes are written, they mean nothing if you have no interest in these particular people or understanding of why they are getting together.
I wasn’t so sure about this story when I first started it. I totally forgot the premise of it so it took a bit for me to get into…however, I really did enjoy it and I fell in love with Rory so hard! I loved that he pushed Charlie a little bit but also knew when to back down. I truly adore the scene in France! The story turned out really well done!
I love Dianna Roman’s writing, so I was excited when she announced that she was publishing this story. “Caged By The Stranger” is the first book in her erotic series of stand alones called Bad Decisions. According to Roman, each story will focus on a character that makes a bad decision which subsequently changes the course of their life.
Be sure to check out the Content Advisory for this particular story. There are some things that some readers may want to be aware of prior to reading. That said, I love how this story unfolds and how the reader experiences everything just as Charlie does.
Charlie is a salesman that works for a chocolate company called Amor. He receives an invitation to an exclusive club while at a work conference, and sees his life turned upside down after a few visits to said club. Charlie, a very private man, can’t get the events of those meetings out of his head. Everything he thought he wanted blurs, shifts, and changes. There is a lot of self-discovery in this story. It’s interesting to see Charlie go from someone who is closed off to their emotions and focuses on the physical, to someone who pushes themselves to engage in intimacy with another. There’s lovely moments of tenderness in this novel.
There’s some unexpected moments in this novel. A lot of them have to do with self-realizations that Charlie has. A couple have to do with the inner workings of Charlie’s partner. Most of the story takes place from Charlie’s POV, but it’s a refreshing surprise when you get a chapter here and there from a different perspective.
I really appreciate how Charlie comes into his own and learns his to ask for/go after the things that he desires/wants. The story moves along at a good clip and there is plenty of enticing dialogue, introspection, and spicy moments to captivate you. Obsession is a prominent feature in this book and I am 100% here for it! I’m happy that Charlie finds the happiness he deserves. I’m also super intrigued to see what else comes out of this series!
This book was good! Charlie and Rory have an interesting story, Charlie is so busy with work and not being in a relationship, he’s not really sure what to do when he’s being pursued. I like Rory’s gentle ruthlessness in perceiving Charlie and making sure he felt seen and valued. The writing was vivid and I had no problem visualizing the story. I liked seeing Charlie come out of his shell and see Rory use self control around Charlie.
Caged By The Stranger is the first book in the Bad Decisions series. This is the story of Charlie and Rory. Please read the trigger warnings before you start. This was a quick read that was very enjoyable. This is erotica with plenty of spicy moments but we also get emotions too. It was great watching Charlie grow and become a truer version of himself. I enjoyed the story and can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book.
4.5 stars. I wasn't quite sure what to expect going in, but it turned out to be an unexpectedly deep story. Charlie was an unexpectedly uncertain person, particularly regarding physical relationships with others. He needed someone persevering and patient, and that's certainly what he found.
Dianna Roman is one of my favorite authors and I was so glad that I was chosen to be one her ARC readers for Caged by the Stranger. This is the first book in an erotic series that she has planned. I went into this book with an open mind because I wasn’t really expecting a deep and heartfelt love story in an erotic novel. I’m glad I kept an open mind because I was wonderfully surprised. Dianna is an excellent writer and she was able to craft an erotic story with depth and meaning. Caged by the Stranger is about Rory and Charlie. Charlie is a salesman for a chocolatier company who got an interesting business card from Rory at a convention that they attended. Charlie went to the establishment on the business card a few times and it changed his life. Through Charlie’s interactions at the establishment and with his co-workers we learn a lot about his internal struggles. Charlie discovers a lot about himself and also learns to let go of shame and the cage that he has around himself. Rory is relentless in his pursuit of Charlie which helps him to blossom as a man, open his heart and receive love. There are a few twists and fun surprises that moves the story along and keeps it interesting. This is an erotic novel so it has plenty of spicy scenes. Each of the spicy scenes serve a purpose in Charlie’s growth. I’m excited for this series and the stories to be told!
I would bet by the cover art you would think this is erotica or non-stop smut. While it is super hot and spicy it's deep and has real emotion. It’s a little sad, funny and romantic.
When Charlie receives a card to a special club where he is able to give in to his desires discreetly his whole outlook changes when a stranger cages him. With no idea who it was (and no way to find out, due to club rules) and no way to remove the cage he has no choice but to get used to it. He wants it off, dammit!
Charlie is caged literally and metaphorically. He has fervently denied his deepest desires and his own true self. I think I had read about 80% before this occurred to me. Duh 🤦 What can I say, I was just enjoying the read. In fact I stayed up to 1:30 am to finish it in one sitting.
This was so good! I laughed so much while reading it. I know it’s fiction but it made me sad that Charlie is so scared to be himself. It’s glorious when he breaks free from his cage and no longer cares who sees who he is.
Highly recommend! So excited this is the beginning of a series.
Loved everything about this! Unique premise, far more than just steam and spice, although it was plentiful and so well done, there was so much emotion and character connection and development too! And what a great message about not letting fear and uncertainty hold you back. Just another really well written story from this author! Glad there is more to come!
I found the premise to be interesting but everything fell flat to me. No relationship building, character building, and the spice wasn't even that good. I was able to finish it in hopes that something would come of it. Sadly disappointed
“Rory, that odd sales manager from the Seattle Convention slipped me a business card to Illusion”
A glory hole club called Illusion leads semi in the closet no relationships for me- Charlie North - to his utmost glory- An Unexpected connection with a stranger which leads to an Unexpected Love!
“Mystery Man Number Three’s throat, he’s eager too, but not in the same way as the others. He’s… all in.”
“I don’t think I want to go back to unskilled performers after tonight’s experience.”
I loved the mystery behind who was behind the panel and why he did what he did to Charlie- in a way very possessive in a romantic kind of way… don’t you think?
I loved their chemistry and how addicted Charlie became to his stranger, that he actually broke the rules to experience that chemistry again… and again…
“I was living in a cage my entire life before he came along.”
Mystery man does get his own POV so we do get inside his head, otherwise it’s mostly Charlie’s POV…
Their story is told with lots of heart and soul and humour with a sweet rounding off of their story- the moral- Patience is a Virtue where love is concerned!
I voluntarily received an ARC for an honest non biased opinion on this book.
Omg I don’t know how Dianna Roman does it, her width of command over her craft is amazing. I went in expecting a high spice erotica with a ton of satisfying smut but somehow the author weaved in these beautiful emotions and I was so invested in what was happening to these characters, normally I am not a huge fan of fast burn unless done right and boy was this one done right - incinerating!!!
Most of the story is told from Charlie’s POV making this so intimate and when we get the other side it’s all the swoon, so so much swoon.
I will say there could be a few sensitive themes here but they are beautifully handled. If you want a high heat, singe your fingers erotic tale with a ton of feels, read this one.
I’m sorry o can’t say more otherwise it will really ruin the experience of the way the book is laid out
The spice starts on the first chapter and does not quit. As always, Dianna Roman gives you absolutely wonderful characters with chemistry seeping off the pages. In a very fun twist, this book has a little mystery for you. Charlie visits a club he was recommended from a business associate. The club provides just the service Charlie needs. When he walks away with a caged cock one evening, he finds out a few things about himself and possibly who gave him the cage? Great fun. It's a bit of a mystery and excellent spice.
Yes. Just all the yes. This had some fun twists, which I won't name, but I loved it. This fully fits the brief of erotica. My Kindle is steaming from now from all the heat this book packed. Now, don't go into this thinking there won't be character development because smut is present as that is just not correct. This definitely shows how the MC is able to overcome his own internal struggles to live authentically and happily. It was great. Both filthy and also uplifting.
ARC Review: 5 🌟 s Charlie's story was such a great combination of intrigue, humorous at times, intense passion with curiosity as to why he was having these feelings, sadness he would deny himself from feeling things. His journey was so remarkable and relatable, the writing drew me into his world and I found myself understanding more about clubs that I did before. As Charlie struggled with the "cage" incident...I myself had emotional turmoil along with poor Charlie. Love reading these types of books where the characters get layers peeled away slowly and they blossom at the end...Definitely add this to your TBR. When you find out who the "Holds the Key" you will be surprised!!🤭
I absolutely loved this book!! I highly recommend checking it out as I couldn’t put it down!! Charlie’s story is the story I didn’t know I needed but was a great read. Lots of spice with a a HEA.
This was an absolutely wild book. I had a very fun time with it 😂 Definitely recommend if you’re looking for very high spice but a solid emotional backing as well. Just don’t expect anything particularly serious or realistic haha. I very much enjoy the cover I picked up from Dianna in person 😏
I love Ms. Roman's work and own every book and audible she has. I really love a good solid romance, and I wasn't sure this would deliver. Color me surprised. Not only was this extra spicy with a side of Holy Guacamole, but a beautiful romance unfolded. At first, I found Rory cold and calculating, and Charlie just seemed closed off and unapproachable. The two with time, patience, and bravery changed into beautiful men that were full of depth and character. This was who they truly were, and they needed each other to achieve their own personal fulfillment. This story had moments of hilarity interspersed with sadness from their internal struggles. I can't recommend this novel enough. Happy Reading! I can't wait for the next in the series.
Another great story by Dianna. This is the first story in her new erotica series, although all stand alone stories. Charlie is a bit of a mess. He works a lot, been in the closet for years and isn't interested in a relationship but he does obviously have needs. When he is at a work conference a colleague slips a card to the Illusion club. It is a glory hole and there are rules to follow. One rule is not to speak to the person on the other side of the wall. When Charlie feels a connection with the same person a couple of times in a row he asks the person to meet again and to his surprise he gets a cage put on him. He has a mad dash trying to find out who put it on him. When he goes on a work cruise he works out who has the key and that leads to some steamy fun. It turns out Charlie doesn't mind having the cage. His biggest block does seem to be his fear of commitment but maybe he can overcome this too. I loved reading this story.
This is an anonymous hookup to more romance, featuring Charlie North and a mystery guy, and is book four in the Bad Decisions series.
Charlie isn’t looking for complications—just something simple and discreet to take the edge off. But a mysterious club and an even more enigmatic man ignite a craving in him he never expected, leaving him wanting more than he ever thought he needed.
Make sure to check the CA before diving in. One of the things I loved most about this book is how the story unfolds—you’re right there with Charlie, experiencing every twist and turn through his eyes.
I genuinely cackled more than a few times. And when the mystery man was finally revealed? Chef’s kiss—it was done so well.
This is a powerful journey of self-discovery. Watching Charlie grow from someone emotionally closed off to someone learning how to embrace connection and intimacy was incredibly rewarding. The book balances spicy moments with unexpected tenderness, and some of the surprises hit in all the right ways.
I don’t want to spoil a thing, so I’ll just say this: read it. You won’t regret it.
Things to expect in this book are: Book 1 in series MM romance Check CW Anonymous hookups Private s*x club Glory hole Chasity cage Mistaken identity Work trip Self doubt Spicy times & dirty talk Praise kink Self discovery HEA
I think this cover sums up this book so well - what you see it what you get.
It’s a fun, kinky, smutty read. There is not much plot - just enough to keep reading (for me). It was fun. Charlie was a great character and since the book was mostly from his perspective it was hard to get to know Rory - but I think that was the point! Glad we got a few chapters from him to really understand the dynamic.
This is a steamy, emotionally rich novella, that delivers both in heat and heart. The author brings us the story of Charlie North, a hardworking man with no time or interest for relationships. But when a mysterious club card leads him to Illusion, he finds more than just a physical release: he finds Rory, a stranger who sees right through him. Rory’s calm control and quiet determination are the perfect match for Charlie’s guarded nature. Their connection is instant, and the chemistry is intense. What really makes this story shine, is how the author balances the spicy scenes with real emotional depth. The writing is sharp and vivid, the pacing tight, and there’s even a touch of mystery to keep things interesting. This book is sexy, smart and surprisingly moving, a quick read that leaves a lasting impression.
Charlie is a workaholic who believes he doesn't want or has the time to curate a relationship. His parents weren't the best example so he doesn't have a framework for a healthy relationship. He subsists with hookups. To that end he receives an invitation to a BDSM club. He has a few decent encounters. When he finally has time to go again he finds what he believes to be nirvana. The man on the other side of the wall quite literally blows Charlie's mind. He's suddenly desperate for repeat encounters and actually wants to meet this mystery man. He experiences an intimacy he never knew was possible. Rory is perfect for Charlie, his quiet control helps him grow and learn how to be his true authentic self. The chemistry between these two was just scorching hot and some of the best erotica I've ever read.
I was expecting another masterpiece from Dianna. What I don’t expect was for it to be so hot and intense.
This story was such a great mix of humor, passion and even some sadness when Charlie couldn’t figure himself out. All he wanted was to fulfill his desires even if he couldn’t understand why he needed this particular release.
For him, going to club Illusion was the only outlet for him. Though he sure wasn’t expecting to find himself in such a cagey situation 😅
Poor Charlie didn’t know one of the hottest nights of his life would turn out like that. But we get to see him grow and love himself.
He was able to accept that there was nothing wrong with him. That having this particular kink was normal and once he accepted it, he was a happier person.
This is book one in Dianna’s new series Bad Decisions. Make sure you add it to your TBR!
Caged By the Stranger by Dianna Roman was a phenomenal story! I could not put this down as I was dying to know who caged Charlie and why. There will not be any spoilers in this review. Charlie was such a complex character and I appreciated seeing him struggle to understand who would do this to him and then figure out what he really wanted. There were times that I wanted to shake him to get him to admit what he wanted from ‘the stranger’, but it had to happen this way. He had been in the closet so long that he needed to work through it on his own. These two were a great pair and I will definitely reread this one. I do wonder if we will have a story about Charlie’s brother, Shane. He seemed so conflicted at the end that I was curious as to what he was thinking. I highly recommend this one!
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review
What a delightful, simply brilliant heartwarming and sweet story of self discovery. The book is deliciously hot and sensual in the way Rory takes care of Charlie giving him the chance to discover his true self. Caged by the Stranger is a beautifully written unique love story. Highly recommended ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️