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Zeke and Wesley
Zeke and Wesley is an opposites attract romance set in Alaska at a resort for queer men. It features a professional songwriter who is haunted by a past relationship and a fundraiser/event planner who is looking for an adventure.
Wesley Dugan raises money for other people for a living, has finally decided he needs to spend a little on himself for a change. He wants an adventure, somewhere that he can indulge his appetites without making promises to anyone. The Barn is an exclusive Alaskan resort that is highly regarded in the scene and promises kinky delights, assuming Wesley can brave his fear of flying to get there.
Zeke Burrell is about to celebrate a major anniversary. At nearly a thousand days, he imagines he’s spent more time at the Barn than anyone but the owners. To Zeke, the resort is his home and his sanctuary, where he can write music and find peace in his routine.
When they meet, Zeke is surprised to be so curious about the resort’s newest guest. Wesley doesn’t expect to become so infatuated on the first day of his vacation. While their desires brought them to the resort for the same reasons, the rest of their lives couldn’t be any different. Zeke prefers quiet and solitude, while Wesley enjoys the company of others and a good party. Zeke has a complicated history, but Wesley’s couldn’t be more straightforward.
Is it possible for them to find the balance they crave both in-scene and out?
Wesley Dugan raises money for other people for a living, has finally decided he needs to spend a little on himself for a change. He wants an adventure, somewhere that he can indulge his appetites without making promises to anyone. The Barn is an exclusive Alaskan resort that is highly regarded in the scene and promises kinky delights, assuming Wesley can brave his fear of flying to get there.
Zeke Burrell is about to celebrate a major anniversary. At nearly a thousand days, he imagines he’s spent more time at the Barn than anyone but the owners. To Zeke, the resort is his home and his sanctuary, where he can write music and find peace in his routine.
When they meet, Zeke is surprised to be so curious about the resort’s newest guest. Wesley doesn’t expect to become so infatuated on the first day of his vacation. While their desires brought them to the resort for the same reasons, the rest of their lives couldn’t be any different. Zeke prefers quiet and solitude, while Wesley enjoys the company of others and a good party. Zeke has a complicated history, but Wesley’s couldn’t be more straightforward.
Is it possible for them to find the balance they crave both in-scene and out?
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2025
63 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Jodi Payne
90 books401 followersJODI spent too many years in New York and San Francisco stage managing classical plays, edgy fringe work, and the occasional musical. She, therefore, is overdramatic, takes herself way too seriously, and has been known to randomly break out in song. Her men are imperfect but genuine, stubborn but likable, often kinky, and frequently their own worst enemies. They are characters you can’t help but fall in love with while they stumble along the path to their happily ever after.
For those looking to get on her good side, Jodi’s addictions include nonfat lattes, Malbec and tequila however you pour it. She’s also obsessed with Shakespeare and Broadway musicals. She can be found wearing sock monkey gloves while typing when it’s cold, and on the beach enjoying the sun and the ocean when it’s hot. When she’s not writing and/or vacuuming sand out of her laptop, Jodi mentors queer youth and will drop everything for live music. Jodi lives near New York City with her beautiful wife, and together they are mothers of dragons (cleverly disguised as children) and slaves to an enormous polydactyl cat.
For those looking to get on her good side, Jodi’s addictions include nonfat lattes, Malbec and tequila however you pour it. She’s also obsessed with Shakespeare and Broadway musicals. She can be found wearing sock monkey gloves while typing when it’s cold, and on the beach enjoying the sun and the ocean when it’s hot. When she’s not writing and/or vacuuming sand out of her laptop, Jodi mentors queer youth and will drop everything for live music. Jodi lives near New York City with her beautiful wife, and together they are mothers of dragons (cleverly disguised as children) and slaves to an enormous polydactyl cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 23, 2026
Zeke has lived his life for the past one-thousand days hidden in a secluded cabin, on an Alaskan island, at an exclusive BDSM resort called “The Barn”. He is safe there and can write his songs from the comfort of his hidden oasis. His ex “Dom”, not that he really was one, was an abusive and manipulating piece of trash. What he did to poor Zeke leaves a nasty mark on the entire BDSM community. Then a collision with the beautiful Dom that had just arrived at The Barn results in a ruined shirt, Zeke’s eyes are finally opened.
Wesley needed a break and The Barn BDSM resort checked off all his boxes. The only drawback was having to fly all the way from New York to Alaska to get there. Flying is definitely not one of Wesley’s favorite things to do. But when the shy and gorgeous sub and him accidentally crash into each other when he first arrived, he sees a boy that piques his interest immediately. But the shy boy is easily spooked and has a backstory he needs to unravel very carefully. Can a reclusive star songwriter and a very successful on-the-go event planner for charities make a life that works for both of them?
I loved how patient and gentle Wesley was with the easily spooked, Zeke. Zeke had a right to be cautious and fearful. What Gerald, his former Dom had done to Zeke was nothing short of abuse and was very disturbing. How could Zeke take the chance and put himself in that position yet again? His trust had been completely violated by the previous "wannabe" Dom who was nothing but a sadist and a cheater. Zeke was 100% different...a true member of the BDSM lifestyle and was able to learn to trust and love Wesley, and that was the key to restarting his life. Wesley also needed Zeke just as much as Zeke needed Wesley.
This book had a bit more BDSM moments than some readers may want, but it worked very well for this story. The careful neutering that Wesley did to help Zeke overcome his crippling anxiety of the world that existed outside of this bubble he had placed himself in, was intriguing. Their trip into the local town was the highlight of this book. It was the "baby steps" that helped Zeke through his anxiety.
I was a little disappointed with conclusion of this book, but I have book #2 and I hope we get more info on how these two men are doing. The two questions that I would have liked answers for were, 1. Did Zeke’s ex ever make an appearance? I hope not.... and 2. did Zeke and Wesley ever get to go to the Red-Carpet premiere of the movie that Zeke had written the soundtrack & songs for? I would really have liked to know the answers to these things that meant so much to the characters and contributed so much to their story.
Wesley needed a break and The Barn BDSM resort checked off all his boxes. The only drawback was having to fly all the way from New York to Alaska to get there. Flying is definitely not one of Wesley’s favorite things to do. But when the shy and gorgeous sub and him accidentally crash into each other when he first arrived, he sees a boy that piques his interest immediately. But the shy boy is easily spooked and has a backstory he needs to unravel very carefully. Can a reclusive star songwriter and a very successful on-the-go event planner for charities make a life that works for both of them?
I loved how patient and gentle Wesley was with the easily spooked, Zeke. Zeke had a right to be cautious and fearful. What Gerald, his former Dom had done to Zeke was nothing short of abuse and was very disturbing. How could Zeke take the chance and put himself in that position yet again? His trust had been completely violated by the previous "wannabe" Dom who was nothing but a sadist and a cheater. Zeke was 100% different...a true member of the BDSM lifestyle and was able to learn to trust and love Wesley, and that was the key to restarting his life. Wesley also needed Zeke just as much as Zeke needed Wesley.
This book had a bit more BDSM moments than some readers may want, but it worked very well for this story. The careful neutering that Wesley did to help Zeke overcome his crippling anxiety of the world that existed outside of this bubble he had placed himself in, was intriguing. Their trip into the local town was the highlight of this book. It was the "baby steps" that helped Zeke through his anxiety.
I was a little disappointed with conclusion of this book, but I have book #2 and I hope we get more info on how these two men are doing. The two questions that I would have liked answers for were, 1. Did Zeke’s ex ever make an appearance? I hope not.... and 2. did Zeke and Wesley ever get to go to the Red-Carpet premiere of the movie that Zeke had written the soundtrack & songs for? I would really have liked to know the answers to these things that meant so much to the characters and contributed so much to their story.
June 3, 2025
❤️ I absolutely loved this book and their story. I loved their bantering, emotions, hot chemistry, and the fantastic ending. This review is my short review, the longer version will be posted on my blog.
my blog review link
my blog review link
May 23, 2025
A beautiful Dom/sub romance !
A beautiful Dom/sub, Wesley/Zeke, deep romance, with wonderful characters and lots of super sexy scenes.
One is a philanthropist and the other is a successful song writer. These guys come to life once they meet. They are a perfect pair, even with each having some insecurities.
Their feelings are vivid, the love gets more intense, and their lives become richer.
We watch every scene, get all of the emotion and we worry with them when real life takes place. They can’t take being without each other.
ENJOY !
======
A beautiful Dom/sub, Wesley/Zeke, deep romance, with wonderful characters and lots of super sexy scenes.
One is a philanthropist and the other is a successful song writer. These guys come to life once they meet. They are a perfect pair, even with each having some insecurities.
Their feelings are vivid, the love gets more intense, and their lives become richer.
We watch every scene, get all of the emotion and we worry with them when real life takes place. They can’t take being without each other.
ENJOY !
======
June 2, 2025
Wesley, an event planner needing a getaway after a successful event, and Zeke, a reclusive musician and songwriter, literally run into each other on Wesley's first day at The Barn, a BDSM resort in Alaska, catering to a place for Doms and subs to meet and interact in the resort. Zeke has been a resident there for a thousand days, having come to hide out from an abusive Dom, living in his cabin at the resort, keeping to himself and writing music. When Zeke literally runs into Wesley, he starts a chain of events leading to Wesley launching a carefully orchestra plan to learn more about this intriguing man who seems so alone and withdrawn. There is something which speaks to the Dom in Wesley that wants to find what makes Zeke tick, and learn more about how he can help him — besides, Zeke is really hot! Zeke is also drawn to Wesley, surprisingly since he has had no interest in anyone in the entire time he has lived there. Wesley is very careful in his interactions with Zeke, watchful and listening to everything, reading voice, gestures and body language to learn as much as he can to determine what Zeke needs, then give it to him. He is very intuitive, reading Zeke very well, making sure Zeke knows he is safe with Wesley, he has safe words and is expected to use them, consent is frequently sought, and words and actions are designed to help Zeke trust him. The more time they spend together during the week Wesley will be there, the closer they become, making the separation when Wesley leaves extremely difficult. The only solution they have now is to try a long distance relationship, see how it goes, then decide from there.
The development of the relationship, both at the resort and long distance, demonstrates the dedication and caring on Wesley’s Dom side, and the growth of the hidden sides of Zeke to that caring as he becomes more confident in himself and folds back into the life of a sub. As they work to find a solution so they can be together full time, both give and take to make things work so they can have a future together.
Both characters are very relatable, easy to root for them to find a way to be together. The depiction of the Dom and sub sides of the relationship is what I would expect could be realistic for a couple that both have work outside the D/s dynamic and do not live it 24/7, but do have a healthy relationship within that lifestyle. The story flowed easily, characters were engaging and I was interested and invested throughout the book. I enjoy books from these two authors and would recommend it to anyone else who does too. I hope there will be more stories from The Barn as there are several possible characters to get a story of their own, and I hope there may be cameos from Wesley and Zeke too. I look forward to watching for them in the near future.
I received a copy of the book and this is my voluntary review.
The development of the relationship, both at the resort and long distance, demonstrates the dedication and caring on Wesley’s Dom side, and the growth of the hidden sides of Zeke to that caring as he becomes more confident in himself and folds back into the life of a sub. As they work to find a solution so they can be together full time, both give and take to make things work so they can have a future together.
Both characters are very relatable, easy to root for them to find a way to be together. The depiction of the Dom and sub sides of the relationship is what I would expect could be realistic for a couple that both have work outside the D/s dynamic and do not live it 24/7, but do have a healthy relationship within that lifestyle. The story flowed easily, characters were engaging and I was interested and invested throughout the book. I enjoy books from these two authors and would recommend it to anyone else who does too. I hope there will be more stories from The Barn as there are several possible characters to get a story of their own, and I hope there may be cameos from Wesley and Zeke too. I look forward to watching for them in the near future.
I received a copy of the book and this is my voluntary review.
May 29, 2025
MY OPINION: I always enjoy a DOM/s book that is done well. This is a wonderful path around the lifestyle that makes me appreciate the knowledge and thought that goes into the story.
Zeke is a damaged soul who was abused by his DOM and was forced to run and hide from them, until he was certain that the man who damaged him couldn’t get to him. There was a catch: the place where he lived was an exclusive club catering to the BDSM community. This place had become his home, his safe place. Since he arrived, he hadn’t participated in any of the activities because he had been abused, and it wasn’t the time. Until Wesley, then everything changed.
Wesley went to blow off steam after finishing a major work event. Flying to Alaska, where there was an exclusive BDSM club with plenty of subs to play with, was exactly what he needed. He was out of practice, and it was time he fed that part of himself, and this would be perfect. What he didn’t expect was to bump into—literally—a sub that took his breath away. He was instantly enthralled with the man and wanted to know more the moment he met him.
Wesley helps Zeke learn what it’s like to be treated properly by a DOM. He helps him heal what was broken. This is a book about soothing a broken soul and filling in the missing pieces. It’s a gentle look at this lifestyle and how it can intermingle with a mainstream relationship.
I enjoyed the story and the characters, and anticipate a lot of fun coming from The Barn. There were a lot of things I was curious to know about when I was finished, but maybe we will see them in cameos. If you like some of the other books these two write, you will enjoy this one. Very much the same vibe as Les’s Bar, good men living the lifestyle in the right way.
Zeke is a damaged soul who was abused by his DOM and was forced to run and hide from them, until he was certain that the man who damaged him couldn’t get to him. There was a catch: the place where he lived was an exclusive club catering to the BDSM community. This place had become his home, his safe place. Since he arrived, he hadn’t participated in any of the activities because he had been abused, and it wasn’t the time. Until Wesley, then everything changed.
Wesley went to blow off steam after finishing a major work event. Flying to Alaska, where there was an exclusive BDSM club with plenty of subs to play with, was exactly what he needed. He was out of practice, and it was time he fed that part of himself, and this would be perfect. What he didn’t expect was to bump into—literally—a sub that took his breath away. He was instantly enthralled with the man and wanted to know more the moment he met him.
Wesley helps Zeke learn what it’s like to be treated properly by a DOM. He helps him heal what was broken. This is a book about soothing a broken soul and filling in the missing pieces. It’s a gentle look at this lifestyle and how it can intermingle with a mainstream relationship.
I enjoyed the story and the characters, and anticipate a lot of fun coming from The Barn. There were a lot of things I was curious to know about when I was finished, but maybe we will see them in cameos. If you like some of the other books these two write, you will enjoy this one. Very much the same vibe as Les’s Bar, good men living the lifestyle in the right way.
May 14, 2025
**I received an electronic ARC from Gay Romance Reviews.**
Actual rating: 3.5
BA Tortuga and Jodi Payne introduce their newest series, The Barn, with Zeke and Wesley. The Barn is a resort in Alaska that caters to the queer and kink communities. Zeke has been there, alone, for 1000 days. He's a musician hiding from the pain of his past and the outside world. Enter Wesley. Wesley is a charity event professional looking for an adventure and some time away. In this opposites attract romance, Zeke and Wesley have to grow to trust one another and learn to live in each other's worlds.
Wesley is extremely patient and compassionate with Zeke, who suffers from extreme anxiety as a result of a past relationship gone wrong. Zeke comes across as guarded initially but very quickly surrenders to the safety Wesley offers. If it sounds like there isn't all that much transition, well. That might be true. Tortuga and Payne keep the tone relatively light and sugar sweet throughout this book, even when Zeke is having to work through some very difficult things. For me personally, that type of hurt/comfort tends to bring on an expectation of some angst or grit that is notably absent in this story. Zeke and Wesley are great together. But the near-perfection is actually what stops me from rating this story higher.
I love the setting of The Barn and am absolutely eager for more stories in this series as the atmosphere and descriptions of the location are a definite highlight of the story.
I am grateful to have had the opportunity to read Zeke and Wesley's story early and look forward to exploring the backlist from these authors as well as whatever they come up with next.
Actual rating: 3.5
BA Tortuga and Jodi Payne introduce their newest series, The Barn, with Zeke and Wesley. The Barn is a resort in Alaska that caters to the queer and kink communities. Zeke has been there, alone, for 1000 days. He's a musician hiding from the pain of his past and the outside world. Enter Wesley. Wesley is a charity event professional looking for an adventure and some time away. In this opposites attract romance, Zeke and Wesley have to grow to trust one another and learn to live in each other's worlds.
Wesley is extremely patient and compassionate with Zeke, who suffers from extreme anxiety as a result of a past relationship gone wrong. Zeke comes across as guarded initially but very quickly surrenders to the safety Wesley offers. If it sounds like there isn't all that much transition, well. That might be true. Tortuga and Payne keep the tone relatively light and sugar sweet throughout this book, even when Zeke is having to work through some very difficult things. For me personally, that type of hurt/comfort tends to bring on an expectation of some angst or grit that is notably absent in this story. Zeke and Wesley are great together. But the near-perfection is actually what stops me from rating this story higher.
I love the setting of The Barn and am absolutely eager for more stories in this series as the atmosphere and descriptions of the location are a definite highlight of the story.
I am grateful to have had the opportunity to read Zeke and Wesley's story early and look forward to exploring the backlist from these authors as well as whatever they come up with next.
May 28, 2025
Most books set at resorts feature tropical locations where the characters walk around in tiny bathing suits, so it was a refreshing change of pace to read a book set at a resort in the wilds of Alaska. The premise of this resort - a BDSM getaway for queer men - is brimming with potential, and the fact that this will be a series is promising.
Wesley and Zeke are wonderful characters. Wesley is charming and outgoing, while Zeke is reserved and quiet, but together they are dynamic. Zeke has a traumatic past that has kept him isolated on this resort for 3 years, and Wesley is looking for some relaxation and rediscovery of himself. The resort gives them the opportunity to explore the instant connection they have with each other in a safe space.
That said, the story felt rushed and a little incomplete. Given Zeke's history, I expected a bit more emotional tension and healing. But the relationship seemed to progress perfectly. There were hints of angst but it never quite reached the depth or complexity I was anticipating. Everything seemed a little too smooth - barriers fell too easily and moments that could have been emotionally rich felt hollow instead.
Still, the chemistry between Zeke and Wesley is undeniable. The setting is fresh. And the writing is warm and engaging. I'm looking forward to where the series takes us. This is a touching, heartfelt romance with a bit of kink and a lot of comfort - just don't expect a deep dive into the emotional angst.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
Wesley and Zeke are wonderful characters. Wesley is charming and outgoing, while Zeke is reserved and quiet, but together they are dynamic. Zeke has a traumatic past that has kept him isolated on this resort for 3 years, and Wesley is looking for some relaxation and rediscovery of himself. The resort gives them the opportunity to explore the instant connection they have with each other in a safe space.
That said, the story felt rushed and a little incomplete. Given Zeke's history, I expected a bit more emotional tension and healing. But the relationship seemed to progress perfectly. There were hints of angst but it never quite reached the depth or complexity I was anticipating. Everything seemed a little too smooth - barriers fell too easily and moments that could have been emotionally rich felt hollow instead.
Still, the chemistry between Zeke and Wesley is undeniable. The setting is fresh. And the writing is warm and engaging. I'm looking forward to where the series takes us. This is a touching, heartfelt romance with a bit of kink and a lot of comfort - just don't expect a deep dive into the emotional angst.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
May 22, 2025
This is an intriguing, well written story with great characters and an interesting take on a BDSM relationship. Zeke is doing the best that he can to protect himself after getting out of a dangerous situation but he has isolated himself so much that he isn't really living. Wesley is an amazing Dom looking for a bit of fun while on vacation but once he meets Zeke he is unable to see anyone else. They are exactly what the other needs but the major obstacle that they face is Zeke's reluctance to leave his safe place and that Wesley needs to be in New York for his work. Being apart is much harder than they expected it to be and they will have to find a way to compromise so that they can both get what they need. I like how their relationship develops but I really wish that Zeke had been encouraged by Wesley to seek out professional help to deal with his anxiety and fear as it was so overwhelming for him. Overall I really liked this story, the setting was amazing and I look forward to reading the next book in this new and exciting series.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
May 29, 2025
“Zeke and Wesley” by Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga is the first book in ‘The Barn’ series and centers around Dominant Wesley, who REALLY hates flying but has traveled across the country to try out a remote BDSM site, and submissive and reclusive Zeke, who hasn’t set foot off the property for 1000 days. The two men have very different lifestyles and approaches to life, yet somehow they form a tenuous connection, but it may not be able to survive the challenges that threaten to destroy everything they’re building.
This adult gay contemporary BDSM romance introduces a fascinating (and chilly!) location known as The Barn, where those in the lifestyle can explore their desires. I was drawn to Zeke, who has settled into a rut that allows him to function yet feel secure. It took me a bit of time to warm up to Wesley since he is pretty incapacitated at first, but it makes what he’s willing to do to keep Zeke in his life even more impressive. Although this is a happy-for-now story, it was compelling and entertaining, and I look forward to learning about more couples and I am sure I will enjoy seeing how Zeke’s challenges are resolved.
A copy of this story was provided for review
This adult gay contemporary BDSM romance introduces a fascinating (and chilly!) location known as The Barn, where those in the lifestyle can explore their desires. I was drawn to Zeke, who has settled into a rut that allows him to function yet feel secure. It took me a bit of time to warm up to Wesley since he is pretty incapacitated at first, but it makes what he’s willing to do to keep Zeke in his life even more impressive. Although this is a happy-for-now story, it was compelling and entertaining, and I look forward to learning about more couples and I am sure I will enjoy seeing how Zeke’s challenges are resolved.
A copy of this story was provided for review
May 17, 2025
What an excellent start!
I loved this book! The first in what promises to be an amazing new series is the story of Zeke and Wesley and a resort in Alaska called The Barn that will bring them together. Zeke has been living at The Barn for several years after running from a bad relationship. Wesley gets to go for vacation and the two bump into each other, literally, on Wesley’s first day there. Wesley is intrigued by Zeke and will take the time to get to know him and bring him out of his shell and his comfort zone by making him feel safe. I love how Wesley pushes Zeke just enough to get him to try to get back to the man he was without pushing him to the point where it’s too much. They find a way to make their relationship work when Wesley has to return to New York and I love how they get to have their happily ever after!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I loved this book! The first in what promises to be an amazing new series is the story of Zeke and Wesley and a resort in Alaska called The Barn that will bring them together. Zeke has been living at The Barn for several years after running from a bad relationship. Wesley gets to go for vacation and the two bump into each other, literally, on Wesley’s first day there. Wesley is intrigued by Zeke and will take the time to get to know him and bring him out of his shell and his comfort zone by making him feel safe. I love how Wesley pushes Zeke just enough to get him to try to get back to the man he was without pushing him to the point where it’s too much. They find a way to make their relationship work when Wesley has to return to New York and I love how they get to have their happily ever after!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
May 28, 2025
A sweet, kinky romance
Zeke and Wesley were really lovely to read. These authors are particularly good at brining out emotion as the focus in kink and j love them for it. Are there plenty of hot scenes with Zeke and Wesley, absolutely. But the overwhelming take away is the relationship they build and the depth of feeling between them. Don’t get me wrong, some steaminess is always fun; but, I like that this feels deeper than that whilst not feeling overwhelmingly burdened by the emotions these guys are feeling. Zeke had some serious anxiety from past trauma and you get to see him work through. There’s definitely no lack of emotion there and yet it’s not overwhelming in the way sometimes emotional reads can be. Those can be fantastic too, but sometimes it’s nice to also read something emotional but still sweetly positive. This really hit that note which worked really well for me. I can’t wait to see what’s next in this series but I’m sure it’s going to be great!
Zeke and Wesley were really lovely to read. These authors are particularly good at brining out emotion as the focus in kink and j love them for it. Are there plenty of hot scenes with Zeke and Wesley, absolutely. But the overwhelming take away is the relationship they build and the depth of feeling between them. Don’t get me wrong, some steaminess is always fun; but, I like that this feels deeper than that whilst not feeling overwhelmingly burdened by the emotions these guys are feeling. Zeke had some serious anxiety from past trauma and you get to see him work through. There’s definitely no lack of emotion there and yet it’s not overwhelming in the way sometimes emotional reads can be. Those can be fantastic too, but sometimes it’s nice to also read something emotional but still sweetly positive. This really hit that note which worked really well for me. I can’t wait to see what’s next in this series but I’m sure it’s going to be great!
July 14, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
This was a sweet and sexy BDSM romance with definite hurt/comfort vibes. Wes and Zeke are a cute odd couple pairing, and I loved how they supported each other in ways they hadn’t initially anticipated. The sexytimes were kind, with light BDSM scenes lacking humiliation and focusing on service, as that suited the kinks of both MCs. I very much enjoyed the growth and healing Zeke experienced through his continued connection with Wes. It was also cool to see how both men figured out how to manage their lives, within The Barn’s shelter and outside of it.
This is the beginning of a new series, and it fully centered the romance couple, while giving readers a glimpse into The Barn.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
This was a sweet and sexy BDSM romance with definite hurt/comfort vibes. Wes and Zeke are a cute odd couple pairing, and I loved how they supported each other in ways they hadn’t initially anticipated. The sexytimes were kind, with light BDSM scenes lacking humiliation and focusing on service, as that suited the kinks of both MCs. I very much enjoyed the growth and healing Zeke experienced through his continued connection with Wes. It was also cool to see how both men figured out how to manage their lives, within The Barn’s shelter and outside of it.
This is the beginning of a new series, and it fully centered the romance couple, while giving readers a glimpse into The Barn.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
May 22, 2025
I'm hoping this is the start to a new series because the setting is fresh and I hope to read more from this world. The Barn is an exclusive BDSM club in Alaska. Zeke is a sub and successful music composer who has spent almost three years living in a cabin at the resort. He rarely interacts with anyone due to anxiety related to abuse from a previous Dom.
Wesley, a fundraiser and Dom, has come to The Barn for a week's vacation. He doesn't expect more than a little R&R with a dash of kink. When he accidentally bumps into Zeke, he is immediately drawn to the man. Through care and compassion, Zeke comes to trust Wesley and they spend the week together. What will happen after the week passes? This book is fairly low angst, a story of healing and passion, and ultimately true love.
Wesley, a fundraiser and Dom, has come to The Barn for a week's vacation. He doesn't expect more than a little R&R with a dash of kink. When he accidentally bumps into Zeke, he is immediately drawn to the man. Through care and compassion, Zeke comes to trust Wesley and they spend the week together. What will happen after the week passes? This book is fairly low angst, a story of healing and passion, and ultimately true love.
May 23, 2025
Two of my favorite authors give us another outstanding book. This one set at an BDSM Alaskan resort (if that is not your thing, do not worry it is less BDSM, and all relationships and love) where Zeke practically lives composing music. He accidentally meets Wesley who has escaped there to pamper and treat himself. These two meet and sparks fly but both got issues to overcome. I loved how they are such opposites but with patience, encouragement, and passion, they bring out the best in one another. I was rooting for them to find love. Expect lots of emotions and feelings but done with love and compassion. Low angst, great plot, and characters that are wroth investing make this a great read. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
June 3, 2025
A beautifully written Dom/sub romance full of tenderness, trust, and emotional depth. Wesley, a confident and intuitive Dom, meets Zeke, a reclusive songwriter recovering from past trauma, at The Barn—a secluded BDSM resort in Alaska. What starts as a chance meeting turns into a transformative connection built on care, consent, and mutual healing.
Their chemistry is electric, the banter is sharp, and the emotional moments hit hard. I loved how Wesley read Zeke so well and gently guided him back into confidence and submission. Even the long-distance phase felt authentic and hopeful. This story had me fully invested, swooning, and wishing for more from this world.
If you're looking for a romance with heart, heat, and a beautifully portrayed D/s dynamic, this one’s a must-read.
Their chemistry is electric, the banter is sharp, and the emotional moments hit hard. I loved how Wesley read Zeke so well and gently guided him back into confidence and submission. Even the long-distance phase felt authentic and hopeful. This story had me fully invested, swooning, and wishing for more from this world.
If you're looking for a romance with heart, heat, and a beautifully portrayed D/s dynamic, this one’s a must-read.
May 15, 2025
I'm always eager to explore stories set in Alaska. This one takes place in a kink resort near Juneau which sounds even better. The two main characters meet and click very early in the story and even though they have to deal with anxiety and their demons from the past it's relatively smooth sailing in their relationship more or less from the start. I guess that took away any excitement and I didn't feel like I could connect to the characters beyond the surface level. Hopefully lots of other people will have a different experience as the characters are interesting and the writing style itself was nice as well.
May 18, 2025
Zeke is a talented songwriter hiding from the world after escaping an abusive relationship. He lives in Alaska on a resort meant for men looking for D/s relationships, but he doesn't play, he doesn't connect, and he doesn't really seek anyone out. Until he literally runs into Wesley.
Wesley is an event planner who needs a break, so a week at a remote hotel that caters to his needs sounds like heaven. He thought he'd have a few scenes, play a bit- but he never thought he'd find his forever until Zeke spilled his drink on him.
This book was steamy, and sweet, and just lovely. Zeke and Wesley were wonderful MCs and seeing them get their HEA was a delight!
Wesley is an event planner who needs a break, so a week at a remote hotel that caters to his needs sounds like heaven. He thought he'd have a few scenes, play a bit- but he never thought he'd find his forever until Zeke spilled his drink on him.
This book was steamy, and sweet, and just lovely. Zeke and Wesley were wonderful MCs and seeing them get their HEA was a delight!
June 10, 2025
Zeke and Wesley are two men who would never have met in the course of real life. Except both needed a break from real life and escaped to a place where they could exist as their authentic selves. Wesley was only looking for a short vacation, but he found so much more in the form of Zeke, a man who'd extended his original escape to such lengths that it has turned into hiding. Payne and Tortuga nicely balance his newfound stirrings of possibly wanting more with his instant chemistry with Wesley, rather than laying all the impetus of Zeke's development on his new relationship. I appreciated the mature and rational conversations and compromises each man makes in the pursuit of their connection. I look forward to returning to The Barn for more of the lovely, nuanced romance I adore from this author team.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the authors.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the authors.
June 3, 2025
The Barn and its Alaska location made a wonderful setting for this story and I'm looking forward to reading more stories set here. Zeke and Wesley make for an interesting opposites attract couple with Zeke holed up at The Barn writing his music and feeling safe and cocooned. His unexpected attraction to the outgoing Wesley and Wesley's interest in return forces both of the to examine their differences and what they want out of life to see if a relationship can work. I enjoyed seeing two men with established lives contemplating big changes.
May 23, 2025
Jodi and B.A. have given us their wonderful storytelling in a new setting. The story has BDSM elements, but it is about building a relationship, facing fear, and growing into a stronger person. Zeke's fear has taken over his life. He's stuck in a bubble of self-preservation. Wesley is an insightful Dom. He nudges Zeke, but never takes over Zeke's will. He guides, encourages, and offers love and strength to help his boy heal.
Highly recommended
Highly recommended
May 24, 2025
Fat Millie, risi e bisi, pornstache, Xanax, major/minor, extra ketchup, kilt, trimmed bush, salmon Pop Tarts
This is cute, but it feels formulaic. Everything happens very quickly, even the ending. It doesn't feel like a HEA; it's unsatisfying. Zeke is a sweetheart, and Wesley is googly eyes for Zeke. For what it is, I liked this. I almost always enjoy reading Jodi Payne's and BA Tortuga's books, and look forward to their new books.
This is cute, but it feels formulaic. Everything happens very quickly, even the ending. It doesn't feel like a HEA; it's unsatisfying. Zeke is a sweetheart, and Wesley is googly eyes for Zeke. For what it is, I liked this. I almost always enjoy reading Jodi Payne's and BA Tortuga's books, and look forward to their new books.
May 27, 2025
I absolutely loved how the author showcased the intricacies of building a dynamic, and how the foundation should always start with trust. The mental health rep was also a pleasant surprise, though I wish we could have spent a little more time exploring Wesley's side as it was very briefly touched on. The spice was SPICY, and every scene was intense, with an emotion undercurrent that left me breathless. Can't wait for the rest of the series!
May 28, 2025
Thank you for the book, here is my honest opinion:
3.5⭐️This was sweet, pretty low on the angst and needless drama. Wesley and Zeke have great chemistry and I enjoyed their story. It has some good spice but was a little slow for me. There is a lot of promise in this new series and I loved their story Alaskan setting and the authors have filled The Barn with some interesting and charming characters.
3.5⭐️This was sweet, pretty low on the angst and needless drama. Wesley and Zeke have great chemistry and I enjoyed their story. It has some good spice but was a little slow for me. There is a lot of promise in this new series and I loved their story Alaskan setting and the authors have filled The Barn with some interesting and charming characters.
May 17, 2025
What an amazing read! What was most impressive to me is how well we got the story and the scenery while still being character focused. They were front and center even when we were feeling the cold chill of the weather and the heat from them together. We were taken on a journey of love and the building of trust. I can’t think of a better way to start a series.
May 22, 2025
This is book one in a new series called The Barn and I think that it is a great start, I really liked Zeke and Wesley and liked how they connected with each other and how Wesley was with Zeke, the story had steam but was also sweet and i enjoyed seeing Zeke and Wesley sorting everything to get their Hea. Looking forward to reading more from this series in the future.
May 30, 2025
Oh my gosh, this is such a beautiful story. Zeke is in so much pain but he gets brave when Master Wesley arrives. Their story is so unique but sadly their problems or getting over them aren't as unique as one would like. Wesley is the very best Dom for Zeke. It's such a good story, I loved it. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
May 30, 2025
Wesley goes on a well deserved vacation to a specialized resort in Alaska. He is an event planner that works on both coasts, but hates flying. He runs into Zeke physically when he arrives at the resort. Zeke is a songwriter living in a cabin at the resort, it is his safe place from the world. This story is a romantic, steamy adventure with logistic issues that is fun to read.
September 1, 2025
These two fall fast but have major issues to work through - agoraphobia and past abuse on one hand and a job that requires travel even though afraid of flying on the other. The way they learn to support each other is sweet and the rest of the book is spicy. I really love the concept of this private club in Alaska.
September 14, 2025
IMO incomplete
Zeke and Wesley have soggy meet cute. Wesley recognizes Zeke's need for a Dom. The story is very sweet, too sweet at times. Zeke experienced significant trauma with another "Dom" prior to meeting Wesley. The authors share Zeke's story but,by the end of the book I felt the issue was unresolved. Also, the end of the story is abrupt IMO.
Zeke and Wesley have soggy meet cute. Wesley recognizes Zeke's need for a Dom. The story is very sweet, too sweet at times. Zeke experienced significant trauma with another "Dom" prior to meeting Wesley. The authors share Zeke's story but,by the end of the book I felt the issue was unresolved. Also, the end of the story is abrupt IMO.
May 24, 2025
ARC Review.
This is my first book I have read from Jodi Payne.
It was a good book. I laughed a lot. The relationship between Wesley and Zeke was written great.
I will read more from Jodi Payne.
This is my first book I have read from Jodi Payne.
It was a good book. I laughed a lot. The relationship between Wesley and Zeke was written great.
I will read more from Jodi Payne.
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