Jarrod Bancroft: The Novel

Jarrod Bancroft #2

by Lizzie Ashworth

With everything she cared about gone, Dominatrix Macie Fitzgerald has built a new life in service to those seeking pain and submission. She takes pride in her success. When she accepts Jarrod Bancroft’s application to her next training session, she knows he poses a risk to her fragile emotionless world.Macie fears are confirmed when she discovers that the ten years since he was her high school history student have only made him more magnificent in every way. How long can she resist him? What devastation awaits her if she can’t?Life has been too easy for Jarrod Bancroft—rich parents, football star, law degree, high powered job, women by the score. Something is missing. He wants whatever Stonybrook Academy can dish out, much as it scares the hell out of him. Tied to the bed, his body violated in every way, he faces his first night realizing he was right to be afraid. He never imagined this torture and deprivation. And this woman, his sadistic mistress—the voice behind her mask sounds familiar. Macie faces her biggest challenge as she struggles to fulfill her professional obligation to give Jarrod what he wants, what he needs. But Jarrod soon discovers that Macie is what he wants. What she doesn’t give, he takes—a risky venture when you’re a sub. Defenseless against his potent charm, Macie breaks every rule she’s made for herself. Heartbreak soon follows. To complicate matters, a legal hammer hangs over Jarrod’s head at Bancroft Investments threatening to ruin his professional future. Sucked into his father’s illegal business mess, Jarrod’s life takes an unexpected and life-threatening turn. Powerless as a nightmare unfolds around him, Jarrod dreams of his queen, the only woman he wants. But there’s nothing Macie can do for him now. The story of Jarrod Bancroft weaves a web of denial and fear, dark family secrets, and wealth at any cost. The lash of a whip is nothing compared to pain like this. When pain feels like love, how does love feel? For mature readers only.

Genres: Adult, Romance, Novella

384 pages, Paperback

First published November 26, 2013

About the author

Until recently, sex scenes in most books erupted behind closed doors. Why? Why was (and still is in some venues) it acceptable to describe the details of violence, hate, fear, anger, and greed, but not the details of touch, desire, and love? I feel fortunate indeed that now sex scenes keep the bedroom door open, show readers the tingle of flesh, and follow through to the heavy breathing, sweaty finish. It's about damn time.

Reviews

[Lisa Zeigler · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the 2-3 months after Jarrod’s training at the Academy, we learn more about Macie’s painful past. We also see Jarrod as a submissive while also taking the initiative with periods of authority/dominate. Macie is becoming addicted to him and fights to keep from becoming too close to Jarrod. As part of Macie’s dominatrix tendencies, there are some funny ways of requiring Jarrod to act and dress. Think of high heels and an apron on a man! This new world with Macie seems to help Jarrod deal with the painful thoughts of his childhood.

We see Jarrod at work in his father’s investment firm and he is seeing some shady parts to the business. He has a decision to make about his future and career. Macie is also in a quandary about Jarrod; she is losing control and she needs to have control. This book is very emotional and parts of it brought me to tears. The book is no longer just about BDSM and submission, but feelings between Macie and Jarrod. The book ends in a suspenseful event and you can’t help but wanting to know more. I look forward to the next story and to find out what happens to Jarrod and Macie.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Jarrod's story progresses in this second installment we learn more about both his and Macie's pasts. We understand more about the guilt Macie deals with regarding Sam and how its shaped the woman she has become along with why she behaves so bipolar with Jarrod.
As the author shares facts about Jarrod's past we find that life isn't always as it appears. Now he has a new challenge coming that could be devastating.
After Jarrod graduated from the academy he and Macie live together. Not so much as equals he continues to serve her as a slave (which he gladly accepts). The closer they get the more Macie panics and things fall apart, and at the worst possible time for Jarrod. At the close of this book we're left in shock over one hell of a cliff hanger.
The author has managed to write some very shocking kink scenes ( who knew there is such a thing as a male chastity belt?.....not me!) Yet write a gripping storyline that will have you reading faster and longer while holding your breath for the outcome.

[Tracy O’Sing · Rating 4 out of 5]

This instalment of Jarrod Bancroft set 3 months after the conclusion of book #1. We see Jarrod and Macie living together, while they may be living together. Macie still the Dominant and lets just say that as her sub Jarrod must endure.... a male Chasity belt and dressing in High heels and a frilly apron as a maid.. although at time Jarrod begins to show a little dominance, this story is less about the BDSM lifestyle and more on the stories past and present of the leading characters, Macie begins to step away from the Academy claiming boredom and Jarrod has quit his job working in the family business fed up with fathers shady dealings.. Only to be subpoenaed to a hearing regarding his fathers business...
No Spoilers but what a cliff hanger.... I cant wait to find out what happens in the next instalment of the Jarrod Bancroft series...
A well written and emotional instalment that still contains that sexy steaminess that I have come to expect from Ms Ashworth.

[Breanna Eichhorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not for the first time Jarrod considered finding another job any job that would get him out of this company. Jarrod went home to Macie and he found a note telling him that she would be home later and that she was with Bea. Macie kept Jarrod guessing, one day she would be annoyed that he'd shaved and the next day demanding that he remove his stubble immediately. It always surprised him how much he changed in the collar.
Jarrod wants out of the legal and financial world. Only purpose was to serve Macie and he quit his job at Bancroft. Macie is Jarrod's Madam, left the Academy, her only friend is Bea. Bea is Macie's friend and submissive. Mark took over the Academy from Macie. Chris own's a mansion and is a fierce Dom.
I truly loved this book and an awesome continuation of the first book. This is a very fast paced story that I couldn't put this book down. I highly recommend this book, and I can't wait to read the third book.

[Philomena Callan Cheekypee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oohhhhh this was a really hot story.

Macie is the Madam at her academy for submission training. After the loss of Sam ( would have liked to know more about him) Macie decides love is not for her and throws herself into training subs. Jarrod is a blast from her past. When he is referred to get academy she has strong feelings for him. Can she cross that line?

This is a real quick read. It's part one in this series. If your not a prude and you enjoy stories about bdsm then I recommend you 1-click this one.

[Linathebookaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
First let me say that I hadn't read anything from this author. Needless to say I was pleasantly surprised. A true BDSM romance novel with engaging characters and quite refreshing storyline. Loved the reversed roles (female Dom instead of the cliché repetition we usually have in such books) and the development. A lot of twists and turns and quite an emotional ride...Plus some intense scenes. *fans self *
I recommend it to all fans of the genre.
5 Stars from me.

[Philomena Callan Cheekypee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. Make sure you read book one before reading this as its a continuation.

As this is part of a series I really don't want to put spoilers in so its kinda hard to review. I thought the author did a great job with this story. Everything Macie thought and believed has changed since meeting Jarrod. Will she allow her heart or her head to win??

Really enjoyed this. I'm so looking forward to reading the next part in this hot series.

[Prismseven · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a copy of this novella in exchange for a honest review. This story was an enjoyable quick read. The author provided a great sexy scenario of a hot older female (prior teacher) and a rich and sexy younger male submissive (prior student). The interactions between the two main characters sizzled.

[Kirsty Bicknell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an amalgamation of the fourth and fifth novellas in the Jarrod Bancroft series. Lizzie Ashworth exhibits a writing style which is not only different, but on a higher level than we witnessed in the first book. Whilst she maintains an atmosphere of intense eroticism, she adds a sense of mystery and draws deep emotions from her characters.
The conclusion of Jarrod’s Spring Break left us in turmoil, questioning Jarrod’s disappearance and so at the beginning of book three we discover him imprisoned by an unknown captor in ‘Paradise’. Jarrod is in a desperate situation which forces him to adapt. A new side of him emerges, which is dominant, manipulative and cunning, as he seduces his guard. These are not the first m/m scenes Lizzie Ashworth has written during the series, but here Jarrod is in control and in order to escape the island he is on, he is forced to play a role.
It is interesting to observe Jarrod during this time, but to increase our anticipation Lizzie Ashworth allows us a glimpse into Macie’s world as well. Macie is at home distracted by her worry and unable to concentrate on the Academy’s students so she decides to seek revenge for Jarrod’s disappearance, in the process revealing certain truths about Jarrod’s life. It becomes obvious to her and the reader that her feelings for Jarrod are far deeper than a Dom/Sub and her issue is how to deal with this.
Jarrod’s Homecoming, the final instalment in the series, enables Lizzie Ashworth to tie up any plot threads and reconcile the main characters with themselves and each other. Not only does Jarrod have to come to terms with the fallout of being held captive for two months, but his life is under threat and he is confused about his relationship with Macie.
Although Macie is now convinced of her own feelings she feels unable to approach Jarrod and ends up making the ultimate sacrifice.
I did not necessarily expect a fairytale HEA for this couple, but I think Lizzie Ashworth’s choice of ending is perfect. Having now completed the series I have enjoyed watching the development of both characters, particularly Jarrod. This is an excellent choice for any fans of erotic fiction with a solid plot-line.
Jarrod Bancroft gets huge thumbs up from me!

[Barb · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book in my opinion was easy to like. The two main characters I could relate too. The concept of the story was believable and wasn't way out there. But there are a few things I would have liked more information on. One is why was the death of Sam what made Macie open the academy? I understand loving a person and having it make you go crazy with grief but his death destroyed her and that leaves me to asking the question why? More background information on her relationship with Sam could've answered these questions.

Macie seems to have troubles of her own and she doesn't seem happy. She seems to be missing a part of herself. That could be because she is lonely with out her true love Sam. When she wants relief she has one of her employers put her through some BDSM of her own. She knew Jerrod when she read about him on his application to the Academy. She taught him when he was in high school. Things can change when you are out of high school, she needs to see what makes Jarrod tick. But can she ignore the feelings she starts having for him while he is in training? Can he let him go when he graduates?
Jarrod comes from a family that doesn't love him. He has tried everything to gain his fathers approval and he is even working for his father. I think he goes to the Academy to find his inner self and what he finds is so much more. He recognizes Macie from his high school days and he had a huge crush on her then and now his feelings come back full force. Oh how he wants her and to make her his for good. But can he survive the training she is going to dish out?

This story gives an outsider a look inside of the world of BDSM. BDSM is not perceived as what is normal. But to the ones who live this life style it is real and it is a way of life. This story will open the eyes of the curious ones in the "real world" per say. This story is not for the faint of heart. I can't wait to read more from this author. You want an erotic story with BDSM thrown into the mix? This is the story for you. Give it a read and prepare for a journey of a different kind.

[Lisa Zeigler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read ‘Faint Heart’ by Ms. Ashworth and love her writing style. This novella is somewhat different in that it focuses on BDSM and submissive training. Macie Fitzgerald, previously a high school teacher and after suffering a great loss, found a new calling as a Dominatrix and by opening Stoneybrook Academy. The training is a three week time period and the book is very explicit in the various parts of the training.

Jarrod Bancroft – 27, has tried everything to gain his father’s approval as an athlete, high grades, awards, college, law degree and now working in his father’s investment firm. He has had a life of ease and wealth but never felt wanted by either of his parents. When Macie sees his application, she realizes she taught him in high school. She sees that he has matured into a gorgeous man and is unsure whether she should accept his request for training, as she feels a personal interest in Jarrod.

This is a very erotic story that not only gives the reader an inside look at submissive training, the pain, humiliation, and denial, we also learn that this type of training can be helpful to those dealing with various types of pain in their lives. Although this type of lifestyle isn’t for me, the details are definitely intriguing and HOT! The book gives enticing thoughts of a future between Macie and Jarrod and I look forward to the next part of their lives.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

When we last saw Jarrod Bancroft he was missing, taken in plain daylight from the court house. Macie was beside herself, good! She needs a wake-up call. Mind you, I do not want anything bad to happen to the lovely Jarrod Bancroft but as I said Macie needs a wake-up call. She loves Jarrod and we all know it, it’s time for her to admit it and tell him.

The conclusion to Jarrod Bancroft’s story has surprising revelations, steamy sex and desperation. Each character finds their own unconventional way to survive the horrific situation. The beginning of the story spends time with Jarrod during his abduction. As I’m reading, I wondering how Ms. Ashworth could possibly incorporate the hot and steamy sex she is known for, well how dare I question this amazing erotic author!? She does not disappoint, I assure you!! Jarrod is on edge, as each day goes by he feels he is losing more and more of his sanity. His captor won’t talk to him, so he is forced to find his own companionship. Is it possible for him to persuade the captor to interact with him? He’s certainly going to give it his best shot. Maci is beside herself with worry. She is desperate to learn Jarrod’s fate. What extremes will she go to in an attempt help save Jarrod? If she succeeds with her plans, will it be in time for the man she loves?

I give this Jarrod Bancroft installation as well as the whole series 5 stars as well as 5 hands down the pants.

[Kirsty Bicknell · Rating 4 out of 5]

The reader joins Mistress Macie and Sub Jarrod, months after their initial encounter at Stonybrook Academy. They are now living together, still involved in a BDSM relationship, but Jarrod unhappily working for his father and Macie in limbo, no longer a part of the Academy. However, as individuals they have developed and both are entering an unsettling time; Jarrod is attempting to assert himself in the workplace as well as sexually and Macie is both confused and dismissive of her feelings for Jarrod.
The sex scenes in Jarrod's Valentine are again described in explicit detail, but to emphasise the distance between the main characters Macie instigates a sexual encounter between herself and her female friend, whilst almost forcing Jarrod into his first m/m experience. Despite the fact that these are scenarios the reader can clearly see Jarrod’s uneasiness with, Lizzie Ashworth is still able to describe them in intense and passionate detail.
I enjoyed the different tone of this second installment and think it will be enjoyed by fans of erotica. At the end of Jarrod’s Valentine Lizzie Ashworth leaves her reader with a big questions about the future of the couple’s relationship; will there be a future book in which we see a different side of Jarrod emerge and will it be with or without Macie?

[Kirsty Bicknell · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the third of the Jarrod Bancroft series the story is less focused on the sexual side of Macie and Jarrod's relationship, instead Lizzie Ashworth choosing to examine the emotions of her two characters. This, however, does not mean that the novella is less erotic than the previous two installments, it is just that most of the sexual activity is taking place at the Academy and the reader witnesses it through Macie's eyes.
Macie has always used sex as a way to avoid her feelings, but here she is forced to confront them through therapy. Her reliance on Jarrod beyond their Sub/Dom relationship frightens her, forcing their separation. I really enjoyed Lizzie Ashworth's approach in this novel and welcomed the opportunity to become acquainted with the protagonists on a deeper level. I like the fact that, without their relationship for comfort, Jarrod and particularly Macie, become more exposed and because of this, their weaknesses allow us to connect with them.
Whilst Macie concentrates on the new graduates at Stonybrook , Jarrod adjusts to his independence and has his own problems to distract him. Lizzie Ashworth alters the whole mood of the novella, which becomes mysterious and tense. The climax leaves the reader guessing and hoping that book 4 in the series will be released soon!
Jarrod's Spring Break is my favourite in the series so far and I would definitely recommend it.

[Solmarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

This book is definitely for the light of heart. It was dark in a lot of aspects.

Jarrod Bancroft is looking for something new in his life. Everything from childhood to adulthood has come easily for him. Almost like life was just simply handed to him on a silver platter. He decides to take a chance at something different. And that something can only be found at the Academy. He doesn't know what to expect but he is willing to find out.

Dominatrix Macie Fitzgerald runs the Academy. It is her baby. After the loss of the love of her life she decided that she needed to reinvent herself. She found what she was looking for in her role as a dominatrix. Helping others find themselves as well. She is shocked when she sees Jarrod's name on her rooster. She remembers him as the seventeen year old boy she taught in high school who made her feel things she shouldn't have.

From the moment Jarrod finds himself at the Academy he is subjected to things he never imagined. Broken down till he questions who he really is. If his life before the Academy was real or just lies he lived. Throughout it all he claims to the memory of his Mistress Macie. It was interesting to see his breakdown and how his mindset changed from the beginning of the book till the end.

Can't wait to see what else this series brings.

[Kay Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

If like me you actually prefer to read the whole story novel, instead of book by book.( It always seems like you have or are going to miss something before you read the next one.) Then your really going to like this book. I read the first book and was intrigued to what Jarrods story was and how it would end. When i got The Novel I found out without having to wait. Though I have written reviews for all the books that related to the novel I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Novel in full. It was very well written that keeps you on your toes and guessing what happens next. In the beginning you meet this handsome young man that had it all. Or that is what it seemed like. When in fact he was looking for something he could not get or find. In The Novel you read through each defining chapter of his life. Through the trials and tribulations, his torture and pain. His happiness and sadness and all the life changing decisions that he has to make. Just when you think he will get what he wants life throws him a curve ball and rips it out of his hands time and time again. Does Jarrod ever find what he is looking for or does he settle for what life gives him. Find out when you read the book, then you see what I'm talking about.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Macie is still torn between wanting Jarrod around and feeling like she is taking advantage of him due to her being older and dominant over him, although she’s not always the dominant one. She has actually turned to a counselor for advice.

Jarrod is going through some of his own issues. His father’s business is being investigated and thanks to wanting to please his dad, Jarrod is mixed up in the mess. His mom wants to see him and find out what’s going on, so they meet for lunch. Little did either of them know, but dear old dad took advantage of that meeting.

Lizzie Ashworth does NOT disappoint in the hot and sexy department. This is a great continuation of the story of Jarrod Bancroft. Macie and Jarrod are so good together, but as in all relationships there are struggles and personal baggage that gets in the way. Hold on tight with this story, it will have you running for an ice bath, but you may not be happy with the ending. Don’t worry, a new one will be along shortly (I hope). This book is a total MUST READ earning 5 stars and 5 hands down the pants. I can’t wait for #4, great job Lizzie!

[Breanna Eichhorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Macie read about Jarrod, about his college degree and Law school, his athletics and academic honors. Whatever burned inside Jarrod she wanted to know it, see it, touch it. Jarrod got a email from the academy that was incomplete. Jarrod has been told all his life that he was good looking, but he didn't see it. Six weeks of intense training a place where he would be pushed to his limits. While at the academy Jarrod lost track in the changes underway inside his mind and body.
Jarrod works at his family owned company Bancroft. He was a star quaterback, has icy blue eyes, he came from a powerful and wealthy family, he is 27 soon to be 28 and he is unwanted by his family. Macie runs the academy, she used to be a teacher, gets called Madam. Sal works at the academy, does massages. Chris doesn't touch his proteges, helped Macie discover herself. Carson works at the Stonybrook Academy and is the driver for them.
I truly loved this book. I loved that this book was very hard to put down. It is also a very fast paced book.This is my first book by Lizzie Ashworth and it most definitely will not be my last. I can't wait for the second book.

[Breanna Eichhorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was looking forward to this book. Jarrod was kidnapped at gunpoint. He thought it wasn't really a gun, maybe they wouldn't shoot him. He kept asking questions, but nobody would talk. Macie was in her room staring at her laptop, hoping it was the wrong information. Macie tossed and tossed and turned, every night even with the help of pills. Each day she say at her desk staring at the computer screen unable to process. Since she learned of Jarrod's disappearance. Macie and Jarrod were close. He has no idea where he is, and he made friends with a bird and named it Hecker. Jarrod was locked in a room with no shower, just a toilet, so he thought up a plan to get out.
Jarrod will do anything to get out of being kidnapped. Macie is worried about Jarrod. Chris thought Jarrod would be safe at the Academy. Thinks his brother has something to do with Jarrod's disappearance. Had a relationship with Jarrod's mother. Alan is Chris's brother, is very rich.
I truly loved this book and an awesome continuation of the second book and I loved it!! I highly recommend this series to anyone and everyone. Lizzie Ashworth is an amazing author. I can't wait to read more books by this author.

[Leslie Clifford · Rating 4 out of 5]

Macie was surprised when she was reading applications for Stonybrook Academy to find one for Jarrod Bancroft. Jarrod was her student in high school. The all American quarterback with a bright future ahead of him. Macie had been attracted to him even then but never acted upon it. She had fantasized many times about Jarrod and now finally those fantasies could become reality. Jarrod was tired of trying to live up to expectations set by his father and family. His life was too easy. Needing to challenge himself to find his true inner self Jarrod applies to the Academy. Jarrod is at first proud but becomes broken and shattered. Eventually he learns to genuinely submit to others. This was an amazing story of two souls that had needs inside themselves they were afraid to acknowledge. Macie was living with the guilt of losing someone and Jarrod felt like he had lost himself to pressure and obligations. I loved the chemistry between the two and the situations they found themselves in seemed so real. This was a great way to kick off this series and I cannot wait to read more. My review was provided for Sexy Ways of Reading

[Melissa Miller-Mattern · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Wanton Book Lover Blog Review:

Let me first begin by saying that I loved the Jarrod Bancroft series by Lizzie Ashworth. Almost immediately I felt the story was good and it had me hooked. We meet Mistress Macie Fitzgerald who trains those seeking pain and submission. She has proudly built The Academy to be one of the premier, elite BDSM training facilities. While looking through applications to The Academy, Macie discovers that a former student of hers from her days of teaching high school history. Jarrod Bancoft now 27 has come highly recommended by Macie’s mentor and close friend, Chris. Everything has always come easy for Jarrod; coming from a wealthy family, graduating from law school with honors and now a top position at his dad’s company. But despite all his success, Jarrod feels like he is missing something. Book 1 follows Jarrod training by whom he realizes is his former teacher Ms. Fitzgerald, who he used to have fantasies about. The reader follows along with Jarrod as he completes his training at The Academy and he and Macie sub-come to their mutual desire and attraction.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Gift for Jarrod ended at his graduation from Stoneybrook Academy. Marcie and Jarrod now live together as sub and Madam, but Marcie determined to keep just about sex. She wants no part of a personal relationship. Unfortunately for her, her heart has other ideas. The more connected to Jarrod she feels the more irritable she becomes. One day after a talk with her old friend Chris Patterson she realizes its Valentine’s Day, worst day of the year for her! See what happens when Jarrod comes home with some surprises for Marcie, will she loose it or give in to the feelings she’s trying to run away from.

I HIGHLY recommend reading A Gift for Jarrod if you have not already and then grabbing a copy of this book. This is another scorcher from this amazing author. There is a little bit of EVERYTHING in this story, male/male, female/female and male/female. It’s defiantly a book will cause some heat to build up so make sure your partner is around or you are stocked up on batteries. I give this book 5 stars with 5 hands down the pants!! Wonderful job Lizzie!!

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing! This book placed a blush on my cheeks (which is not an easy task). The concept of an academy to help you find yourself and kink was a new one for me.
I thoroughly enjoyed the past relationship of Macie and Jarrod. This gave a building block for their story. I was a little lost on what exactly happened to Sam that steered Macie into the bdsm scene but perhaps we'll learn more in a later book.
I've read plenty of books dealing with bdsm clubs and sorts and rarely found myself in moments of shock as I did here. Not that I'm complaining one bit. Most of us enjoy some type of kink but being naked in front of strangers and whipped all day is even over the top for me. YET....I found myself turned on that a cold shower sounded good. What does that say about me? Maybe nothing! I think it reveals how well the author draws you into to the life of her characters and the heat she is able to project to her readers.
If you like extreme kink and are not a prude I think this is definitely an author you should give a try.

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

At the end of the last book we were left with an oh Crap moment at the realization that Jarrod has been kidnapped.
We begin this book with Jarrod tied to a chair with the knowledge he's kidnapped and has no idea why. We watch as he faces his fears and does what he must to win his freedom along with the fear that he's losing his sanity.
The second half walks us through his trying to deal with the aftermath of his captivity. His acceptance of who he is and how to proceed with his life despite the position he's in because of his fathers greed. His wrestling with his feelings for Macie. Then the author provides us with a special treat regarding his parents. This series was so much more than kink ( which was overflowing) Lizzie Ashworth provides us with a storyline of loss.,love.,and acceptance.
Note: The characters had many layers and I personally loved the fact that despite what Jarrod.,Macie, and Chris endured in their pasts they surpassed the negative and we the readers got our HEA.

[Leslie Clifford · Rating 4 out of 5]

At the beginning of this book we see Jarrod being kidnapped at the court house and we do not know where he has been taken or who took him. Jarrod struggles to hold on to his sanity and his focus on his love for Macie. He begins a sexual relationship with his kidnapper in an attempt to find a way back to Macie. Meanwhile Macie is beside herself and personally I think she should be. She has done everything in the past two books to distance herself from Jarrod and it is time she realizes what a large part of her life Jarrod really is. She finally decides to trust her heart and fights to find Jarrod and keep him safe but Jarrod is not the same man he was before the kidnapping. There are several questions that finally find answers in this book. Who was behind the kidnapping is revealed and Jarrod and Macie try to find a way to make a life for theirselves again. This series was full of suspense and secrets and oh yeah, those amazing sex scenes. This is one of those stories that will stay with you long after you are done reading. My review was provided for Sexy Ways of Reading.

[Raven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me just start with: I don't normally read books like this because they tend to be poorly written (please see, Fifty Shades of Grey)--so obviously, my 5 star rating should be worth more haha. I was recommended this book by a friend and was pleasantly surprised and then delighted by it. Ms. Ashworth has created a incredibly believable, dynamic characters and a dimensional world for them to reside in. I am not a practitioner of the BDSM lifestyle, so I can't speak to the accuracy of that aspect of the books, but she definitely knows how to create a sex scene whether or not you live the lifestyle. And if you love food, Ms. Ashworth also takes care of you! The only downside to this book is the first half made me desperately miss snow and the coziness that goes with it. If you are lucky enough to live in a cold climate, I would recommend enjoying this book in front of a crackling fire with a beverage of your choice. And for us sad saps who don't have snow to enjoy, turn your AC way down and tuck in for a pleasant ride!

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jarrod Bancroft has skated through life, never being challenged by anything. He has always done what was expected of him by his parents, his coaches, his bosses. Now it’s time he figures life you for himself, figure out what he wants out of it and Stoneybrook academy might be just what he needs to find himself.

This is the third book by Lizzie Ashworth that I have read. The other two were hot; they inspired me to start using the “hands down the pants” rating system in my reviews of erotic books. With that being said I have to tell you that this is THE hottest of all her books. This book set my IPad on fire! It is a very Merry BDSM Christmas novella, but it honestly this book can be read at any time and I HIGHLY recommend getting yourself a copy, buying fresh batteries and enjoying the wonderfully erotic book by this incredible author. I give this book 5 stars and 5 ++++ hands down the pants! Great job Ms. Ashworth!

[Lisa Zeigler · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book, we find out that Jarrod has disappeared and no one seems to know what happened to him and who is involved. We are left to wonder if his father or someone else is involved with his kidnapping. Jarrod wakes up, not knowing where he is and what will happen to him. This was a very suspenseful book and I empathized with the things Jarrod did to try to get free. Macie decides to take a chance on love, helps to rescue Jarrod and fights for his safety.

After such a harrowing time, Jarrod has problems dealing with everyday life after his time as a prisoner and, once free, I could understand the reasons he did certain things as part of controlling what he could. The story was very emotional for me at times and I kept wondering what was going to happen next.

Ms. Ashworth writes beautifully descriptive locations that make you feel that you are there also. I loved the ending with the ‘game’ used to make a decision. Another great story by Ms. Ashworth!

[Deborah Bean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jarrod Bancroft Book 3 by Lizzie Ashworth was by far my favorite book of the series. I heart broke for Jarrod as he struggled to make it while he was locked away as a captive. The things he had to endure, some at his own instigation, will make you wonder how you would react. His escape does not immediately he is free. Macie and Chris can only stand by and try to be supportive as he struggles to come to terms with his life.
I could not put this book down once I started on it. I had to follow the story to find out what happened to Jarrod. I loved the twist in the book because I was so caught up in the main plot, I did not really see that one coming.
I give this book 5 stars. I hope to see more of Jarrod and Macie’s story. This couple has had their ups and downs and now they work to build a life together.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really wish I could give 1/2 stars... This is sooo close to a 5 star read for me!

This is the epic journey of Macie and Jarrod and it's on fire! Not only is this one of the hottest and kinkiest books I've read it has an amazing story line that grabs you! The emotions in this story will tear you apart even as you beg for more.
Jarrod has lived what seems the perfect life, but things are not even close. When he applies to the training academy as a sub, he begins to discover even more than his true self.
Fair warning-- If you are unable to handle reading a strong dominant woman, you are missing out!

"He came to understand that the bodily tortures could be prized not for what they inflicted on the body, but for what they relieved in the mind."

** This is a compilation of earlier released serials