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Firebird
Prosper is thrilled to be plucked from the corps de ballet to dance the lead role in Firebird. But Jackson, the guest choreographer, is as sexy as he is demanding. Prosper soon finds herself flustered by his closeness and his unforgiving gaze. She gets caught up in kinky fantasies that make it difficult for her to concentrate on his steps. She imagines him as her Dominant, turning her over his knee for flubs in rehearsal. Just as sensual tension at work builds to an impossible level, a surprise encounter outside the studio results in Prosper’s fantasies being realized. Jackson takes his protégée home and ties her to his bed. Soon Prosper is receiving the discipline and domination she craves -- and much, much more.
The pair maintain a secret off-stage relationship -- scorchingly intimate encounters several evenings a week. But Prosper feels the burden of carrying the Firebird ballet on her back, and Jackson knows that his time in New York will draw to an end all too soon. Will Prosper crack under the pressure of pleasing her lover and bringing his vision to life, or will Jackson find a way to help his Firebird take flight?
This 57K word spicy romance novel contains explicit sensual content, and BDSM theme and elements.
The pair maintain a secret off-stage relationship -- scorchingly intimate encounters several evenings a week. But Prosper feels the burden of carrying the Firebird ballet on her back, and Jackson knows that his time in New York will draw to an end all too soon. Will Prosper crack under the pressure of pleasing her lover and bringing his vision to life, or will Jackson find a way to help his Firebird take flight?
This 57K word spicy romance novel contains explicit sensual content, and BDSM theme and elements.
233 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2010
116 people are currently reading
1258 people want to read
About the author
Annabel Joseph
70 books2,217 followersAnnabel Joseph is a NYT and USA Today bestselling BDSM erotic romance author. She writes mainly contemporary romance, although she has been known to dabble in the medieval and Regency eras. She is recognized for writing emotionally intense BDSM storylines, and strives to create characters that seem real--even flawed--so readers are better able to relate to them.
Annabel also writes non-BDSM erotic romance under the name Molly Joseph. You can sign up to receive Annabel's newsletter here: http://wordpress.us7.list-manage.com/...
Some of Annabel's favorite authors are Laura Kinsale, Judith McNaught, Jo Beverley, Flannery O'Connor, Molly Weatherfield, and Anneke Jacob.
Annabel Joseph loves to hear from her readers at annabeljosephnovels(@)gmail.com.
Annabel also writes non-BDSM erotic romance under the name Molly Joseph. You can sign up to receive Annabel's newsletter here: http://wordpress.us7.list-manage.com/...
Some of Annabel's favorite authors are Laura Kinsale, Judith McNaught, Jo Beverley, Flannery O'Connor, Molly Weatherfield, and Anneke Jacob.
Annabel Joseph loves to hear from her readers at annabeljosephnovels(@)gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
September 15, 2016
4* girl burns boy STARS!!
My first read from Annabel's was Mercy and it contains some heavy BDSM elements. Like Mercy, Firebird still has the same theme around ballet which I'm not familiar of. I'm surprised with how 'tame' this book and I loved it.
Prosper Ware wouldn't dare to dream for the main lead of Firebird. She's also lusting after Jackson Spencer, the new choreographer. He haunted every of her kinky dream include Jackson as a Dominant who disciplined her. It turns out the feeling is mutual. Because of unexpected events, they involve in BDSM relationship as D/s with no commitment. Just enjoying the present. Outside bedroom, it isn't easy as they thought.
Prosper is a red-haired woman with amazing talent. She's easily likable character; daring, independent and hard-working woman. She's not ashamed of her sexuality. It turns out Jackson was everything she dreamed of. He's nearly perfect as Dominant. Intense but caring. I loved them together.
I enjoyed their chemistry from the start. How Prosper wants Jackson and vise versa. Their BDSM relationship was very smooth. Communication and trust. I loved how Jackson acts as her Dominant all the time. Nurturing and teaching her about D/s also explore her fantasy. This was the most tamest BDSM written by Annabel Joseph. They're monogamous and no hardcore shit. Only discipline spanking and other fun stuff ;) The dirtier the better, right?
Outside their bedroom, Jackson was aware that he's starting to fall in love with Prosper. He maintained distance with her but still in safe length. It was normal, though. I liked their intensity and angst within their relationship. However, Prosper's biggest fear of being not perfect enough was the trigger all her actions. What I didn't like is the ending was too rushed. I feel the whole story intend for the building, not finalization. They just starting their future together because of love. Overall it was great but not as perfect as I wished.
My first read from Annabel's was Mercy and it contains some heavy BDSM elements. Like Mercy, Firebird still has the same theme around ballet which I'm not familiar of. I'm surprised with how 'tame' this book and I loved it.
Prosper Ware wouldn't dare to dream for the main lead of Firebird. She's also lusting after Jackson Spencer, the new choreographer. He haunted every of her kinky dream include Jackson as a Dominant who disciplined her. It turns out the feeling is mutual. Because of unexpected events, they involve in BDSM relationship as D/s with no commitment. Just enjoying the present. Outside bedroom, it isn't easy as they thought.
“we do have a relationship, you and me. Fuck buddy doesn’t quite describe it.”
Prosper is a red-haired woman with amazing talent. She's easily likable character; daring, independent and hard-working woman. She's not ashamed of her sexuality. It turns out Jackson was everything she dreamed of. He's nearly perfect as Dominant. Intense but caring. I loved them together.
Gasp turned to moan—hers or his, he didn’t know. Both, perhaps. They moved together like that, slow and splendid, for what might have been an hour but probably wasn’t. It was as if they sealed some new contract, some new promise. Deep feelings. Immense possibilities. Prosperity.
I enjoyed their chemistry from the start. How Prosper wants Jackson and vise versa. Their BDSM relationship was very smooth. Communication and trust. I loved how Jackson acts as her Dominant all the time. Nurturing and teaching her about D/s also explore her fantasy. This was the most tamest BDSM written by Annabel Joseph. They're monogamous and no hardcore shit. Only discipline spanking and other fun stuff ;) The dirtier the better, right?
“And you’re going to come for me like the sex-starved, cock-loving slut that you are. Do you understand me?”
“Yes, Sir!”
Outside their bedroom, Jackson was aware that he's starting to fall in love with Prosper. He maintained distance with her but still in safe length. It was normal, though. I liked their intensity and angst within their relationship. However, Prosper's biggest fear of being not perfect enough was the trigger all her actions. What I didn't like is the ending was too rushed. I feel the whole story intend for the building, not finalization. They just starting their future together because of love. Overall it was great but not as perfect as I wished.
September 4, 2016
1st read: August 31, 2014
Love Annabel's books!
2nd read: June 25-26, 2015
3rd read: 3-4 September 2016
Love Annabel's books!
2nd read: June 25-26, 2015
3rd read: 3-4 September 2016
September 24, 2011
This is a 4.5 star from me. Since I truncate, it's a 4 star. This is by far my favourite book by Ms. Joseph. I loved this ballet bdsm story. I liked how both Prosper and Jackson weren't mentally ill people. Sometimes, Ms. Joseph writes stories of people who are just f-ed up. F-ed and medicating with BDSM is a pet peeve of mine.
In this one, instead, the two come together in sexy synergy. The mating dance they do together is breathtaking and very arousing. I enjoyed every D/s scene. This story reminded me of the Black Swan movie, but in a much better ending and a whole lot sexier. The sensual way Ms. Joseph writes is so lovely. In the way she describes the partners dancing. In the way she set the D/s Scenes. Even the little parts when she forces Prosper to repeat dirty degrading phrases.
I recommend this to those who are new BDSM for this book. It's a nice light way to start. Plus, a smoldering romance unfolds for the happily ever after crowd.
In this one, instead, the two come together in sexy synergy. The mating dance they do together is breathtaking and very arousing. I enjoyed every D/s scene. This story reminded me of the Black Swan movie, but in a much better ending and a whole lot sexier. The sensual way Ms. Joseph writes is so lovely. In the way she describes the partners dancing. In the way she set the D/s Scenes. Even the little parts when she forces Prosper to repeat dirty degrading phrases.
I recommend this to those who are new BDSM for this book. It's a nice light way to start. Plus, a smoldering romance unfolds for the happily ever after crowd.
August 14, 2018
Intense but not too dark ballet themed BDSM romance.
September 6, 2011
Really liked this. This was a little softer than some of her other books but I loved how it was set in the ballet world.
I've been in and out of ballet since I was preschool and I've known several choreographers. Most of the male ones have been as gay as the day is long. So it was a little bit of a stretch to envision his supreme masculinity. Even the straight ones have an effeminate appeal. I have never once in my life envisioned Balanchine watching me dance with a riding crop in his hand.
After all the buildup about the production of the Firebird I was almost pissed when I turned the page and discovered that since our couple plan to live happily ever after, the opening night of the ballet was basically a fade to black. It felt like the supreme letdown of a fade to black sex scene. "Don't drop the curtains on me!" I wanna seee!
I've been in and out of ballet since I was preschool and I've known several choreographers. Most of the male ones have been as gay as the day is long. So it was a little bit of a stretch to envision his supreme masculinity. Even the straight ones have an effeminate appeal. I have never once in my life envisioned Balanchine watching me dance with a riding crop in his hand.
After all the buildup about the production of the Firebird I was almost pissed when I turned the page and discovered that since our couple plan to live happily ever after, the opening night of the ballet was basically a fade to black. It felt like the supreme letdown of a fade to black sex scene. "Don't drop the curtains on me!" I wanna seee!
December 24, 2018
Olvidable
June 27, 2015
Buddy read with Aly
LOVED LOVED LOVED this book!!!
LOVED LOVED LOVED this book!!!
October 24, 2010
The perfect blend of pain, pleasure and romance
Oh baby! This is what happens when extreme talent writes a beautifully, erotic romance. A story of a ballerina and her choreographer, Firebird read like a ballet in itself- sweet and graceful at times, but mysterious and tension filled at others.
Jackson has come to NYC to choreograph an edgier version of the ballet Firebird. He begins ruffling feathers by casting Prosper Ware, a corps dancer, as the lead role. While the choreographer side of Jackson pushes and calls out the prima ballerina in her, the Dominant in him thrills at the opportunity to care, nurture and release her inner submissive.
Prosper epitomizes the Firebird, and watching the Firebird come to life and take flight is one heck of a fine ride.
I liked how Joseph used secondary characters to reinforce Prosper’s view of herself as less than perfection. She sees herself as a disaster waiting to happen and therefore that is how everyone else in the Ballet, including the director, views her. It takes an outsider with a trained eye to see past the image she projects, to the mastery of her movement and the capability of her talent.
Aside from the inner struggle for each of them to overcome their past hang-ups so they can find their HEA in each other’s arms, there is a side plot of jealousy. Jealous prima ballerinas angry over their dismissal and jealous potential lovers who wait in the wings hoping the two won’t survive. It all wove together for me to create a complex and beautiful love story.
This is one of my more erotic reads that I can recommend to any friend. The BDSM is on the light side and there are no ménages. So while the sex is steamy, it isn’t too terribly tawdry or dark.
Romance, steam, and just enough edge- they are the underdog couple to root for when you are looking for that book to put a smile (and blush) on your face. Enjoy!
Oh baby! This is what happens when extreme talent writes a beautifully, erotic romance. A story of a ballerina and her choreographer, Firebird read like a ballet in itself- sweet and graceful at times, but mysterious and tension filled at others.
Jackson has come to NYC to choreograph an edgier version of the ballet Firebird. He begins ruffling feathers by casting Prosper Ware, a corps dancer, as the lead role. While the choreographer side of Jackson pushes and calls out the prima ballerina in her, the Dominant in him thrills at the opportunity to care, nurture and release her inner submissive.
Prosper epitomizes the Firebird, and watching the Firebird come to life and take flight is one heck of a fine ride.
I liked how Joseph used secondary characters to reinforce Prosper’s view of herself as less than perfection. She sees herself as a disaster waiting to happen and therefore that is how everyone else in the Ballet, including the director, views her. It takes an outsider with a trained eye to see past the image she projects, to the mastery of her movement and the capability of her talent.
Aside from the inner struggle for each of them to overcome their past hang-ups so they can find their HEA in each other’s arms, there is a side plot of jealousy. Jealous prima ballerinas angry over their dismissal and jealous potential lovers who wait in the wings hoping the two won’t survive. It all wove together for me to create a complex and beautiful love story.
This is one of my more erotic reads that I can recommend to any friend. The BDSM is on the light side and there are no ménages. So while the sex is steamy, it isn’t too terribly tawdry or dark.
Romance, steam, and just enough edge- they are the underdog couple to root for when you are looking for that book to put a smile (and blush) on your face. Enjoy!
April 27, 2014
It's weird: I wavered between giving this a 2 or 4 star rating. At one point, I was about to say "eff it" and just give it 4 stars since I was wavering so badly, and everyone seemed to rate it high, but as you can see, I gave it 2 stars instead. After some thinking, I thought the writing was good, but the relationship between the Heroine and all other characters fell flat for me. Her only friend in the dance troupe was annoying at best and the secondary love interest (Blake) was too flaky for my tastes. The Hero was also interesting, but I found her too dependent upon his every wish for me to enjoy the read. I understand it's a BDSM book, but the Heroine was so weak in character that it made me dislike her overall. Her family background was silly and I felt like I was watching an episode of "Amish Mafia." Her decision to work a second job at a seedy bar said a lot about her intelligence - like really? Have some self respect. Work someplace where droves of men won't try to fondle you all the time.
Overall: read like a daytime soap.
(IMO) I found the Heroine's childhood development and family background to play a huge part in leading her into the Hero's arms (or at the least, play a part in her endeavor to "be perfect" and not displease anyone around her). I think she would have been a better heroine if she didn't have such heavy emotional baggage. After all, she needed the Hero in a lot of ways: he took care of her financially (i.e. gave her a place to live) and he controlled her in and out of the bedroom (made her eat, at her job, during sex, etc.) - so I'm hesitant to say she came to love him "normally" (I don't doubt their lust for each other, but I question their love - if he didn't provide her with all the things she felt were missing from her past/current life, would they still be together?)
Overall: read like a daytime soap.
(IMO) I found the Heroine's childhood development and family background to play a huge part in leading her into the Hero's arms (or at the least, play a part in her endeavor to "be perfect" and not displease anyone around her). I think she would have been a better heroine if she didn't have such heavy emotional baggage. After all, she needed the Hero in a lot of ways: he took care of her financially (i.e. gave her a place to live) and he controlled her in and out of the bedroom (made her eat, at her job, during sex, etc.) - so I'm hesitant to say she came to love him "normally" (I don't doubt their lust for each other, but I question their love - if he didn't provide her with all the things she felt were missing from her past/current life, would they still be together?)
February 8, 2012
I have heard several people say that reading FIREBIRD is like reading Joseph's MERCY - i'll have to say that I disagree...unless of course you are considering that both books are about submissive dancers with tortured pasts and Dominant men who can't live without said dancer.
I quite enjoyed FIREBIRD. I will say that the heroine's timid persona got a little old after a while, but I still like her character. If you enjoyed MERCY, then you will definitely like this one too.
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I quite enjoyed FIREBIRD. I will say that the heroine's timid persona got a little old after a while, but I still like her character. If you enjoyed MERCY, then you will definitely like this one too.
______________________________________________________________________
If you like this type of book, you might enjoy one of these groups. Check us out!
Menage Readers
Erotic Enchants
Bookie Nookie's Erotic Lending Group
March 25, 2015
What a wonderful book. If you like steamy romances, great characters (warning Jackson may become your new book boyfriend), and plenty of bdsm spice, then you will want to add Firebird to your reading shelf.
Annabel's writing in this book is so good that I was instantly drawn into the story and characters. It may sound sappy, but I genuinely cared for the two main characters' well-being and wanted to see their relationship grow. I thought the balance between the romantic aspects of the story and the hot, scorching hot, sex scenes is the reason I enjoyed this book so much. I don't want to give anything away, but there were some really creative things that occurred between the H/h that made my panties not only drop, but fly across the room and hit the ceiling fan! Don't get me wrong, spanking scenes are hot, but add some creative kink and bondage to the mix and I am melting. This book left me in a puddle and compelled me to give it 5 "slap my butt" stars.
Annabel's writing in this book is so good that I was instantly drawn into the story and characters. It may sound sappy, but I genuinely cared for the two main characters' well-being and wanted to see their relationship grow. I thought the balance between the romantic aspects of the story and the hot, scorching hot, sex scenes is the reason I enjoyed this book so much. I don't want to give anything away, but there were some really creative things that occurred between the H/h that made my panties not only drop, but fly across the room and hit the ceiling fan! Don't get me wrong, spanking scenes are hot, but add some creative kink and bondage to the mix and I am melting. This book left me in a puddle and compelled me to give it 5 "slap my butt" stars.
November 12, 2014
Set amidst a revolutionary production of Stravinsky's "Firebird" we witness a corps dancer's struggle with her rise from obscurity to lead. She is technically perfect, but as with most people who demonstrate such rigid control--she's mentally a mess. Prosper, love the name, under the tutelage of the choreographer, Jackson, struggles not with the mechanics, but rather the fear. I won't divulge further details, rather allow the reader to experience it.
This book contains moderate elements of bdsm, and for those who understand the guiding principals therein will be pleased with this offering.
This book contains moderate elements of bdsm, and for those who understand the guiding principals therein will be pleased with this offering.
May 19, 2016
Really enjoyed this story. I've been meaning to read Mercy or any of the ballet-themed books by this author for quite sometime and I'm glad I started with Firebird. When I think of ballet, I think it's all classical and serious, so I really loved reading where bdsm and ballet go hand in hand. When Jackson was first describing how he wanted a darker version for the Firebird, what popped into mind was Black Swan (and for some reason was thinking of Sonya Tayeh's routines even though there aren't really ballet!). Everything was just very sensual between Jackson and Prosper. I loved seeing how their working relationship and then their D/s relationship developed.
September 23, 2025
Well, this was… frustrating, especially since I’ve read „BDSM ballet- fever dream“ from this author before that and loved it so much. But here,?I spent half the book wavering between ratings and in the end, I just couldn’t ignore how much the characters fell flat for me.
Let’s start with Prosper. Girl, I tried to like you…I really did. But you had all the personality of a wet paper towel. Her dialogue was painfully shallow and just repeating whatever Jackson said. She felt less like a submissive and more like a mindless person drifting through life until Jackson showed up. And her life choices? Working at a seedy bar where she’s constantly harassed? Come on. Have some self-respect.
Then there’s Jackson. Moody, inconsistent and honestly? Not Dom material. His decisions were all over the place and his “care” felt more like control than protection. I never believed he truly loved her, just obsessed over her submission and her red hair.
The only thing that kept me reading? The spice. I’ll give credit where it’s due: the BDSM scenes were intense, well-written and frequent. But even they couldn’t save a relationship that felt built on dependency, not love. Prosper didn’t love Jackso, she just needed him. And Jackson didn’t love Prosper, he only liked controlling her.
In the end, this had so much potential, dark ballet, emotional backstories, power dynamics, but weak characters and rushed storytelling left me deeply disappointed.
2.5/5 stars, rounded down. Hot scenes aren’t enough to carry a romance when the connection feels this hollow.
Trops/kinks/safety
🖤work colleges
🖤ballerina/coach
🖤past death of family member mentioned
🖤bullying
🖤drugging (not by MMC)
🖤obsessive
🖤S/M
🖤impact play
🖤bondage
🖤ropes
🖤anal
🖤face fucking
🖤discipline
🖤rough sex
Let’s start with Prosper. Girl, I tried to like you…I really did. But you had all the personality of a wet paper towel. Her dialogue was painfully shallow and just repeating whatever Jackson said. She felt less like a submissive and more like a mindless person drifting through life until Jackson showed up. And her life choices? Working at a seedy bar where she’s constantly harassed? Come on. Have some self-respect.
Then there’s Jackson. Moody, inconsistent and honestly? Not Dom material. His decisions were all over the place and his “care” felt more like control than protection. I never believed he truly loved her, just obsessed over her submission and her red hair.
The only thing that kept me reading? The spice. I’ll give credit where it’s due: the BDSM scenes were intense, well-written and frequent. But even they couldn’t save a relationship that felt built on dependency, not love. Prosper didn’t love Jackso, she just needed him. And Jackson didn’t love Prosper, he only liked controlling her.
In the end, this had so much potential, dark ballet, emotional backstories, power dynamics, but weak characters and rushed storytelling left me deeply disappointed.
2.5/5 stars, rounded down. Hot scenes aren’t enough to carry a romance when the connection feels this hollow.
Trops/kinks/safety
🖤work colleges
🖤ballerina/coach
🖤past death of family member mentioned
🖤bullying
🖤drugging (not by MMC)
🖤obsessive
🖤S/M
🖤impact play
🖤bondage
🖤ropes
🖤anal
🖤face fucking
🖤discipline
🖤rough sex
September 4, 2015
Firebird is the first AJ novel I read and I can't say I 'm thrilled...
In theory, the story would have been a great one. In paper, that was poorly achieved. The idea of a fit ballet dancer in the BDSM lifestyle is quite unique and intriguing, especially when she is engaged in a BDSM relationship with the mysterious guest choreographer who chose her to be the leading ballerina for his revolutionary version of the "Firebird". A kind of Pygmalion and Galatea BDSM story in the settings of a more refined show business, ballet dancing.
Best element of "Firebird" was the sex scenes. Powerful. Mind-blowing. Losing-your-breath fever-causing explicit BDSM sex scenes that made my pulse fly high. And forunately there were a lot of them to try overshadowing the lack of depth both leading characters suffered. But still...
In terms of storytelling, the dialogue between Prosper and Jackson was reduced to basics, as if the characters didn't know how to communicate and express their POVs, thoughts and feelings.
As for Prosper... I really tried to like her timid character, I did. But the girl couldn't produce a sentence of her own free will even if her life depended on it. Her talk was mostly incoherrent articles, "I don 't know"s and responds to barked commands in which she just repeated what was asked of her. No depth of character, no expressed wishes, no story of how she came into the BDSM lifestyle or how she realized that it fit her. She went on living each day as the previous. On "zombie" mode.
And after meeting J, she grabbed those sessions as if they were a lifeline. Something to experience until he left her eventually. No suggestions. No plans. Even when she turns needy in the end... it doesn't come out right. She hangs herself on J as if he was a crutch and tells him she wouldn't know what to do if he left her. Can someone say self-destructive?
Maybe the author thought that Prosper's unable-to-make-desicions-for-herself character would fit the profile of a sub, but that didn't justify such huge lack of personality whatsoever. That was just painful to read...
And how about Jackson. Most confusing and indesicive male character I've read in years. Same lack of depth of character applies here. As a bonus, his mood was more volatile than the weather.
Jackson's character was just all over the place. He showed complete inability to control himself (when P injured, J thought of her as an invalid in need to rest. Then instead of letting her rest he takes her on a selfish impulse) endangering Prosper's health, leaving her at best confused and aching. He comes out as frustratingly indecisive where P is concerned and when he does make a desicion, he doesn't seem capable to accept the responsibilities that come with it.
On J and P 's connection, I 'll only quote this:
"He wanted her to be nothing else than an uninhibited mindless slut in bed, her self-awareness a thing of the past".
(While at the same time he wants her a little scared of him but can't stand her blushing/squirming/flinching out of fear of him. Make up your mind, man...)
Now, lust is something too obvious in this novel, the author made it quite clear. J and P's relationship is overflowing with it. What was missing though, was the turning point from lust to love. Just. Not. There.
Jackson's "dominant" persona gets excited on Prosper's body and submissive sexual behavior, but what made him fall in love with her, only he can tell (what about the reader?).
On Prosper's side, it's painful to even comment. Her needy dependant behaviour can't qualify her as a believable sub and her big time confession of her past "sin" was too little that came too late.
I suppose I found Blake's and Kristen's secondary characters more enjoyable. At least, bad girl of the story had more flavor, acting out of ambition and jealousy and (when-exactly-did-this-happen) diverted Blake got to shove Jackson's responsibilities up his face.
All in all, the source material had great possibilities to turn this novel into something spectacular. But it all fell short, the writing felt rushed out, unrevised and inadequately short to finally unfold a story with so weak leading characters... 3 stars only because the heat was worth it. But I was just disappointed on this one.
In theory, the story would have been a great one. In paper, that was poorly achieved. The idea of a fit ballet dancer in the BDSM lifestyle is quite unique and intriguing, especially when she is engaged in a BDSM relationship with the mysterious guest choreographer who chose her to be the leading ballerina for his revolutionary version of the "Firebird". A kind of Pygmalion and Galatea BDSM story in the settings of a more refined show business, ballet dancing.
Best element of "Firebird" was the sex scenes. Powerful. Mind-blowing. Losing-your-breath fever-causing explicit BDSM sex scenes that made my pulse fly high. And forunately there were a lot of them to try overshadowing the lack of depth both leading characters suffered. But still...
In terms of storytelling, the dialogue between Prosper and Jackson was reduced to basics, as if the characters didn't know how to communicate and express their POVs, thoughts and feelings.
As for Prosper... I really tried to like her timid character, I did. But the girl couldn't produce a sentence of her own free will even if her life depended on it. Her talk was mostly incoherrent articles, "I don 't know"s and responds to barked commands in which she just repeated what was asked of her. No depth of character, no expressed wishes, no story of how she came into the BDSM lifestyle or how she realized that it fit her. She went on living each day as the previous. On "zombie" mode.
And after meeting J, she grabbed those sessions as if they were a lifeline. Something to experience until he left her eventually. No suggestions. No plans. Even when she turns needy in the end... it doesn't come out right. She hangs herself on J as if he was a crutch and tells him she wouldn't know what to do if he left her. Can someone say self-destructive?
Maybe the author thought that Prosper's unable-to-make-desicions-for-herself character would fit the profile of a sub, but that didn't justify such huge lack of personality whatsoever. That was just painful to read...
And how about Jackson. Most confusing and indesicive male character I've read in years. Same lack of depth of character applies here. As a bonus, his mood was more volatile than the weather.
Jackson's character was just all over the place. He showed complete inability to control himself (when P injured, J thought of her as an invalid in need to rest. Then instead of letting her rest he takes her on a selfish impulse) endangering Prosper's health, leaving her at best confused and aching. He comes out as frustratingly indecisive where P is concerned and when he does make a desicion, he doesn't seem capable to accept the responsibilities that come with it.
On J and P 's connection, I 'll only quote this:
"He wanted her to be nothing else than an uninhibited mindless slut in bed, her self-awareness a thing of the past".
(While at the same time he wants her a little scared of him but can't stand her blushing/squirming/flinching out of fear of him. Make up your mind, man...)
Now, lust is something too obvious in this novel, the author made it quite clear. J and P's relationship is overflowing with it. What was missing though, was the turning point from lust to love. Just. Not. There.
Jackson's "dominant" persona gets excited on Prosper's body and submissive sexual behavior, but what made him fall in love with her, only he can tell (what about the reader?).
On Prosper's side, it's painful to even comment. Her needy dependant behaviour can't qualify her as a believable sub and her big time confession of her past "sin" was too little that came too late.
I suppose I found Blake's and Kristen's secondary characters more enjoyable. At least, bad girl of the story had more flavor, acting out of ambition and jealousy and (when-exactly-did-this-happen) diverted Blake got to shove Jackson's responsibilities up his face.
All in all, the source material had great possibilities to turn this novel into something spectacular. But it all fell short, the writing felt rushed out, unrevised and inadequately short to finally unfold a story with so weak leading characters... 3 stars only because the heat was worth it. But I was just disappointed on this one.
September 19, 2010
“Ballerina in Bondage… Need I Say More?”
The Plot:
Jackson is a choreographer from Chicago who is on temporary assignment with the Townsend Ballet in New York to produce Firebird.
Prosper is a corps ballerina at the Townsend with no chance of making principal. Day in, day out, she lusts over Jackson as he scours the company to cast his Firebird. She dreams of his dominating her, but knows that her dreams are only a fantasy. But, when Jackson casts Prosper as Firebird over the company’s prinipal ballerina, sparks begin to really fly between the two.
Knowing that no good will come from a relationship between a choeographer and his lead, Prosper timidly turns to personal ads for a sexual outlet, in search of a willing dominant to whom she can submit, no strings attached. Little did she know that Jackson was searching, too.
When the fates bring the two together at last, the Firebird learns to sing.
Zelda’s Take:
I must admit that I’m a sucker for dancing. I’ve wanted to be a ballerina since I was four years old. I even dance very casually now in adult classes with a local company, but it’s pretty clear that I was not meant to make a living in leotards and tights.
When I stumbled across Annabel Joseph and found that she wrote erotic novels about kinky ballerinas, I melted a little at the chance to put myself in a ballerina’s pointe shoes and get tied to a bed by a hot choreographer. *swoon*
Firebird did not disappoint. It is a beautiful love story that is the perfect mix of thrilling seduction, grueling training (in choreography and submission), company politics, sexual tension and totally hot sexual release. I love that Jackson controls her. I love how he drills her and demands her compliance, both on the stage and in the bedroom. Their passion is palpable as they share moments dancing together, the pressure of his firm grip moving her in his steps, in the lifts… hot damn. Oh, how I wish I was a petite, fragile, powerhouse of a ballerina like Prosper. *sigh*
I think the greatest scene in the whole book would be the final, glorious night before Firebird opens to the public. Can you say… costume porn? It’s enough to make me want to go on a mad search to find a Firebird costume of my own.
And, let me also just take this moment to gush a bit about the awesomeness that is the “Hall of Hotness” on Annabel Joseph’s website. Of all the places to find erotic photography online, Annabel has totally got my number here. Um… men in tights, ballerinas in bondage and costume porn — definitely a must-see. Through her Hall of Hotness, I also discovered the beautiful fetish photography of John Tisbury, so thank you, Annabel!
Now, I’m going to go put on my own ballet shoes and practice counting my fouettés.
The Plot:
Jackson is a choreographer from Chicago who is on temporary assignment with the Townsend Ballet in New York to produce Firebird.
Prosper is a corps ballerina at the Townsend with no chance of making principal. Day in, day out, she lusts over Jackson as he scours the company to cast his Firebird. She dreams of his dominating her, but knows that her dreams are only a fantasy. But, when Jackson casts Prosper as Firebird over the company’s prinipal ballerina, sparks begin to really fly between the two.
Knowing that no good will come from a relationship between a choeographer and his lead, Prosper timidly turns to personal ads for a sexual outlet, in search of a willing dominant to whom she can submit, no strings attached. Little did she know that Jackson was searching, too.
When the fates bring the two together at last, the Firebird learns to sing.
Zelda’s Take:
I must admit that I’m a sucker for dancing. I’ve wanted to be a ballerina since I was four years old. I even dance very casually now in adult classes with a local company, but it’s pretty clear that I was not meant to make a living in leotards and tights.
When I stumbled across Annabel Joseph and found that she wrote erotic novels about kinky ballerinas, I melted a little at the chance to put myself in a ballerina’s pointe shoes and get tied to a bed by a hot choreographer. *swoon*
Firebird did not disappoint. It is a beautiful love story that is the perfect mix of thrilling seduction, grueling training (in choreography and submission), company politics, sexual tension and totally hot sexual release. I love that Jackson controls her. I love how he drills her and demands her compliance, both on the stage and in the bedroom. Their passion is palpable as they share moments dancing together, the pressure of his firm grip moving her in his steps, in the lifts… hot damn. Oh, how I wish I was a petite, fragile, powerhouse of a ballerina like Prosper. *sigh*
I think the greatest scene in the whole book would be the final, glorious night before Firebird opens to the public. Can you say… costume porn? It’s enough to make me want to go on a mad search to find a Firebird costume of my own.
And, let me also just take this moment to gush a bit about the awesomeness that is the “Hall of Hotness” on Annabel Joseph’s website. Of all the places to find erotic photography online, Annabel has totally got my number here. Um… men in tights, ballerinas in bondage and costume porn — definitely a must-see. Through her Hall of Hotness, I also discovered the beautiful fetish photography of John Tisbury, so thank you, Annabel!
Now, I’m going to go put on my own ballet shoes and practice counting my fouettés.
January 8, 2011
Jae’s Dark Divas Review of this title:
I wasn’t too sure how easy it would be to get into Firebird. I know absolutely nothing about ballet or dance, and you start out thrown right into their world. But within two pages, if even that long, you’re inside this world like you’ve belonged there all along. There are no awkward moments where you don’t understand what’s going on – there is no long exposition to explain anything either. I’m not sure how Annabel Joseph did it, but she made me understand and involve myself in a world which previously I knew very little about.
The character development is outstanding, even secondary characters are brought to life with unflinching clarity. Readers will feel the emotions of the characters vividly throughout Firebird.
I can honestly say, only half-jokingly, that I tried to read the story slower and slower just so it wouldn’t end. There were many complexities within the storyline that added to the enjoyment of Firebird. I will warn that there are a few heavier scenes of BDSM, so if that’s not something you read, this might not be the book for you.
If you haven’t read this story, I strongly encourage doing so immediately. If you like BDSM stories, I can’t imagine how you wouldn’t love this one – and it’s so much more than merely a great BDSM story.
If there was some way for me to rate Firebird higher than Five Delightful Divas and a Recommended Read, I would. This is my first Annabel Joseph book, and I can guarantee it won’t be my last.
Rated 5 Delightful Divas and a Recommended Read by Jae!
http://www.darkdivasreviews.com/?p=1917
I wasn’t too sure how easy it would be to get into Firebird. I know absolutely nothing about ballet or dance, and you start out thrown right into their world. But within two pages, if even that long, you’re inside this world like you’ve belonged there all along. There are no awkward moments where you don’t understand what’s going on – there is no long exposition to explain anything either. I’m not sure how Annabel Joseph did it, but she made me understand and involve myself in a world which previously I knew very little about.
The character development is outstanding, even secondary characters are brought to life with unflinching clarity. Readers will feel the emotions of the characters vividly throughout Firebird.
I can honestly say, only half-jokingly, that I tried to read the story slower and slower just so it wouldn’t end. There were many complexities within the storyline that added to the enjoyment of Firebird. I will warn that there are a few heavier scenes of BDSM, so if that’s not something you read, this might not be the book for you.
If you haven’t read this story, I strongly encourage doing so immediately. If you like BDSM stories, I can’t imagine how you wouldn’t love this one – and it’s so much more than merely a great BDSM story.
If there was some way for me to rate Firebird higher than Five Delightful Divas and a Recommended Read, I would. This is my first Annabel Joseph book, and I can guarantee it won’t be my last.
Rated 5 Delightful Divas and a Recommended Read by Jae!
http://www.darkdivasreviews.com/?p=1917
November 18, 2014
I adore stories set in the ballet world, and Annabel Joseph doesn't disappoint when she captures all the nuances and realistic backdrop of a genuine ballet company. Either she has been a ballerina, or she's researched well enough to make us believe she has. Her ability to weave elements of BDSM into the world of ballet dancing is extraordinary.
That said, let me get to the plot of the story. Prosper is given the chance of a lifetime to dance the lead role in The Firebird by a demanding guest choreographer whom she finds both attractive and demanding. Her kinky fantasies fuel her obsession with the boss, her desire to have him as her Dominant, punishing her for any missteps she has in rehearsal.
Fearing that her desire for Jackson will spill over into her performance, Prosper seeks fulfillment for her sexual fantasies outside the studio. Unbeknownst to her, Jackson, who is equally sexually frustrated, seeks a submissive who bears an uncanny resemblance to his Firebird lead.
As in most BDSM relationships, ground rules are set and Prosper gets what she desires. However, secrets from her past, a secret off-stage relationship, and Jackson's brief gig in New York weigh heavily on the new principal. Something will have to give, or Prosper may find herself back in the corps, and her sexy Dominant back in Chicago. Find out whether the Firebird soars or fizzles, by reading it for yourself :)
That said, let me get to the plot of the story. Prosper is given the chance of a lifetime to dance the lead role in The Firebird by a demanding guest choreographer whom she finds both attractive and demanding. Her kinky fantasies fuel her obsession with the boss, her desire to have him as her Dominant, punishing her for any missteps she has in rehearsal.
Fearing that her desire for Jackson will spill over into her performance, Prosper seeks fulfillment for her sexual fantasies outside the studio. Unbeknownst to her, Jackson, who is equally sexually frustrated, seeks a submissive who bears an uncanny resemblance to his Firebird lead.
As in most BDSM relationships, ground rules are set and Prosper gets what she desires. However, secrets from her past, a secret off-stage relationship, and Jackson's brief gig in New York weigh heavily on the new principal. Something will have to give, or Prosper may find herself back in the corps, and her sexy Dominant back in Chicago. Find out whether the Firebird soars or fizzles, by reading it for yourself :)
July 20, 2011
Read for the Gang Bang Challenge in the BDSM Group
A great HEA, BDSM, romance. I enjoyed the story and I liked the characters. The BDSM scenes were nice as well. I'm generally a fan of the heavier stuff but I still enjoyed this. Their scenes are serious but sweet and romantic too.
Overall, I did enjoy this read. However, I found a few to many similarities to 'Mercy'. I'm glad that I didn't read them back to back. If I had it would have been lucky to get two stars. Both stories have ballet. In both there's a new male employee who captures the lead females attention. Both stories start out a "no strings attached" relationship. They move in together in both. The female in both stories has underlying personal issues that start to seriously affect their lives. And there's a coffee shop down the street from the studio in both. I honestly doubt that's it but I'm going to stop listing them. (Lol) Even so, I did like it. Since I can't give it 3.5 stars I'm giving it 4 because it definitly deserves more than 3. I can't round down with this one. :)
A great HEA, BDSM, romance. I enjoyed the story and I liked the characters. The BDSM scenes were nice as well. I'm generally a fan of the heavier stuff but I still enjoyed this. Their scenes are serious but sweet and romantic too.
Overall, I did enjoy this read. However, I found a few to many similarities to 'Mercy'. I'm glad that I didn't read them back to back. If I had it would have been lucky to get two stars. Both stories have ballet. In both there's a new male employee who captures the lead females attention. Both stories start out a "no strings attached" relationship. They move in together in both. The female in both stories has underlying personal issues that start to seriously affect their lives. And there's a coffee shop down the street from the studio in both. I honestly doubt that's it but I'm going to stop listing them. (Lol) Even so, I did like it. Since I can't give it 3.5 stars I'm giving it 4 because it definitly deserves more than 3. I can't round down with this one. :)
November 30, 2014
The first half of this book was a solid 4 star read for me. I was totally captivated and caught up in the world building, which actually surprised me as I am not a fan a ballet.
Then around the 60% mark the story started to drag. Nothing much seemed to evolve, I was tempted to start skimming pages. Never a good sign. But I resisted doing so and continued.
The sex scenes were smoking hot, but I didn't really get the amount of power exchange that occurred in such a short time, how needy the heroine became. She even forgot to eat when he had to go away.
Then around 80% it comes out something happened to her as a child that made her strive to be a perfectionist. I found the reveal lame. I get why she would have felt that way as a child but she was a grown ass woman. The reveal pretty much killed the story for me.
4 star for the first 60%, 2 stars for the next 40% = 3 stars
Then around the 60% mark the story started to drag. Nothing much seemed to evolve, I was tempted to start skimming pages. Never a good sign. But I resisted doing so and continued.
The sex scenes were smoking hot, but I didn't really get the amount of power exchange that occurred in such a short time, how needy the heroine became. She even forgot to eat when he had to go away.
Then around 80% it comes out something happened to her as a child that made her strive to be a perfectionist. I found the reveal lame. I get why she would have felt that way as a child but she was a grown ass woman. The reveal pretty much killed the story for me.
4 star for the first 60%, 2 stars for the next 40% = 3 stars
November 16, 2014
A sweet love story with whippings - honestly, it doesn't get much better than that! I was worried because I had read some of the authours other ballet stories, so how could it be new? Actually, this was the pre-cursor to any of them, so would it be too light?
It really ended up not being any type of concern, I mean, there is only so much to change about a troupe, but the story was original. The troubles and tribulations were unique and I was drawn in right away
It is a rather sweet love story, and the attraction and heat is evident from the beginning. Both are rather everyday and normal artists, who just happen to lean towards BDSM. Even then, as intense as the scenes are, the sweetness sweeps into them as well
Blake is a character I wasn't quite sure of, but he was actually pretty interesting. If he ever decided to branch out on his own, I'd definitely want to hear more about him
Proper and Jackson burn up as bright as the firebird, and the story, and the ballet, are appropriately named!
It really ended up not being any type of concern, I mean, there is only so much to change about a troupe, but the story was original. The troubles and tribulations were unique and I was drawn in right away
It is a rather sweet love story, and the attraction and heat is evident from the beginning. Both are rather everyday and normal artists, who just happen to lean towards BDSM. Even then, as intense as the scenes are, the sweetness sweeps into them as well
Blake is a character I wasn't quite sure of, but he was actually pretty interesting. If he ever decided to branch out on his own, I'd definitely want to hear more about him
Proper and Jackson burn up as bright as the firebird, and the story, and the ballet, are appropriately named!
July 31, 2015
I honestly loved this book right up to about 60% of the way through. It was captivating, and I really enjoyed the couple. I thought they had an amazing amount of chemistry, and the scenes between them could set you on fire. I think where things went wrong for me was with the big reveal of Prosperity's secret. It seemed odd to me that she would hold that type of blame for so long when she was so young when it happened. I would have liked it to be something else in all honesty even though I know that humans tend to not be rational when it comes go deep seeded guilt. Her quick decent into unhealthy behavior in his absence was also an incongruity to me, and I felt she was stronger than that. Anyway, it was still a great read for me and I do so love Annabel's books. They always have this intensity about them that I completely enjoy.
January 23, 2015
3.5
Spoilerish maybe
This is really hard to review... It flowed really well and then it was like a switch was flicked and the H/h feelings just changed.. The sex was hot.. The story was devent.. I just feel that the characters needed to develope alone and separately a bit more in order for their relationship to change.. I don't even know it was just kind of like ummm what?
Still a good story just kind of iffy ...
This was my first book from this author and I will probably read another one to see what happens..
Spoilerish maybe
This is really hard to review... It flowed really well and then it was like a switch was flicked and the H/h feelings just changed.. The sex was hot.. The story was devent.. I just feel that the characters needed to develope alone and separately a bit more in order for their relationship to change.. I don't even know it was just kind of like ummm what?
Still a good story just kind of iffy ...
This was my first book from this author and I will probably read another one to see what happens..
March 29, 2024
Sadly, DNF
I was so excited to find a book featuring a D/s dynamic with a seemingly interesting plot, but my hopes were crushed by the ridiculousness of it all. The frankly unhealthy and downright dangerous depiction of the dynamic between MCs was a source of yikes, above only the constant need to describe the pulling out of condoms and opening of condoms and rolling down of condoms and rubber this and rubber that for every single thing. There's a reason authors stay away from describing this over and over and over again.
I was so excited to find a book featuring a D/s dynamic with a seemingly interesting plot, but my hopes were crushed by the ridiculousness of it all. The frankly unhealthy and downright dangerous depiction of the dynamic between MCs was a source of yikes, above only the constant need to describe the pulling out of condoms and opening of condoms and rolling down of condoms and rubber this and rubber that for every single thing. There's a reason authors stay away from describing this over and over and over again.
Read
July 29, 2010Love the author, love the heroes, love the stories, love the eroticism, love the heroines. I read a lot of Erotica but I have only 4 authors I have to buy books from, Annabel Joseph is one. The books are real and deep at the same time. No wishy washy dialogue or Fabio hero, it's hard, it's tough and it's love.
September 23, 2012
So, so good. Just loved it. It will definitely be a re-read for me in the future. Prosper and Jackson together were just so incredibly hot...yum.
I loved what Annabel Joseph did with this story--the way she weaved it and drew the reader it with the beauty and parallels on what was happening on the ballet stage and between the two main characters.
I loved what Annabel Joseph did with this story--the way she weaved it and drew the reader it with the beauty and parallels on what was happening on the ballet stage and between the two main characters.
December 1, 2015
I enjoyed this one from Annabel Joseph. This is the third book I've read by this author and her books are always hot. I enjoyed the chemistry between Jackson and Prosper. My heart went out to Prosper because of her tough past and the pressure to be perfect. Overall I enjoyed this one. Her books are quick reads that hold my attention.
October 23, 2012
This was an awesome book! I'm kicking myself for waiting so long to try out Annabel Joseph, because she is very talented! I enjoyed the dancer/choreographer plot line, and I liked the way the D/s was portrayed. Very sexy. I will definitely be checking out more by this author:)
December 10, 2014
Another find from Annabel Joseph. Having had a dance major as a roommate in college, some of the dance things were familiar. Loved this unique story.
December 12, 2014
REALLY liked this one!
I'm addicted to her writing now!
I'm addicted to her writing now!
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