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Control #1

Control Me

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From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shanora Williams comes a series containing blazing sex, one rich alpha male, jaw-dropping secrets, and a wild, undeniable romance.


It's hard to stay in your right state of mind when the man you're being penetrated by is everything you never thought you could have.

It's hard to hold onto reality when he hands you an undeniable escape.

He brings you to life and makes you forget who you truly are. There are rules and boundaries of course, but you consider it perfect, nonetheless.



The truth is I'm not completely sane.

I'm not okay.

I have issues.

And he knows this, yet he constantly leads me on.

He dominates me.

He indulges in me.

He craves me.

But he and I both know how this arrangement will end. I will lose control.

But the control he has over me- the power he possesses- is something he won't let go of. It's what he enjoys and he refuses to give it up, that is until he realizes it's putting both of our lives at risk.

135 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 3, 2014

15 people are currently reading
616 people want to read

About the author

Shanora Williams

77 books6,849 followers
Shanora Williams is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty romance and diverse suspense novels.
She currently lives near Charlotte, North Carolina and is the mother of three amazing boys, has a fiercely devoted and supportive husband, and is a sister to eleven.
When she isn’t writing, she’s spending time with her family, binge reading, or running marathons on TV streaming services. Visit her at shanorawilliams.com or interact with her on Instagram @reallyshanora.

Follow me:
Instagram: Instagram.com/reallyshanora
Facebook: Facebook.com/ShanoraWilliamsAuthor
Facebook Fan Group: Facebook.com/groups/ShanorasSweethearts
Twitter: Twitter.com/shanorawilliams

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5 stars
73 (27%)
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83 (31%)
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71 (26%)
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30 (11%)
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8 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Lindelicious.
87 reviews
January 23, 2015
I liked the sexual content. Something weird is going on with Carlos and Mya has daddy issues.

I really liked Mya in the beginning but that feeling quickly diminished. She becomes annoying and weak. She knew the reason Carlos flew her to San Francisco was for his sexual pleasure but she’s pretending naïveté. Carlos is dominating and continually reminds her that their arrangement is temporary (4 days); however with her clingy nature she gets attached. She makes excuses for Carlos’s behavior instead of questioning it. She’s aware of his shortcomings and all the possible drama in his life but because of her insecurities choose to overlook such.

The snippet from “Release Me” portrayed her as even more pathetic.
Profile Image for Nancy's Romance Reads.
261 reviews435 followers
December 3, 2014
4 IRRESISTIBLE PROPOSITION STARS!

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Holy hotness this book was H.O.T.! Yes, exquisitely hot and I liked it a lot. It was a very well written steamy story about lustful desires, risky chances, and an impending connection a fragile woman couldn't resist.

Mya Sterling has had a really bad luck at love. Her last relationship left her deeply heartbroken and yearning for what it could have been. So when one night presented an opportunity to help her forget the past and loose herself with a new man that could worship her like she never imagined, she just couldn't pass on that chance to feel wanted once again.

"I didn't know much about him, and he didn't know much about me. Essentially, we were strangers, and that was good. No connections needed to be made. No ties. Nothing. Just sex."

And what an encounter that was, so very passionate and exciting! I loved how that part of the story came about because aside from the obvious delicious sexiness, there was also so much mystery behind the man of the hour. Who was he exactly? Was he coming back into Mya's life after that one night stand? If yes, how? I was wondering about all that when he made his appearance again and he indeed surprised me on how he answered my questions. This time he overpowered his first appearance as he wasn't interested in just another night with Mya. No, he wanted to keep her until he was completely satisfied and had her all out his system. That of course called for an irresistible proposition where both of them were supposed to just satisfy their desires on a fixed time frame, or at least that's what they thought.

"This is what I wanted... more of you," he said as our lips parted. He was breathless, and so was I. But I dove in for more, grinding my womanhood against the rock in his pants."

So Mya gets into this sexual fantasy with Carlos Montero, a man that brings her so much pleasure and makes her become a wanton woman. At first it looked like the perfect arrangement until Mya starts wanting more of what it's expected, more of Carlos, more of a connection, and more time which she feels is running out too fast.

"I wanted him to own me. I wanted him to take me as his--to take all of me."

The story then becomes even more heated, and not only due to the passionate encounters, but because of the different expectations both characters have about their agreement. Moreover, there's so much that is unknown about Mr. Montero that that later threatens anything else him and Mya could ever have. . .

"How could I forget about something so daring and risky, yet so enticing and amazing? The truth is, I wasn't going to be able to. I could pretend it never happened, but I would never forget it."

This book was awesome! I loved the slow but intense buildup of the plot. To me since this is a series, this first book was a great introduction to a very fiery and intriguing story. I can't wait to find out what the next book would reveal and how Carlos' secrets and Mya's issues would get all tangled up together. Furthermore, I can't wait for more of this sizzling passion. This story delivered a kind of hotness that was delightful, enticing, and just spot on and I loved it! ;)

Purchase: Amazon US * Amazon UK

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Profile Image for Grace.
2,317 reviews114 followers
December 4, 2014
3.5 stars, full review here => http://afterdarkbooklovers.com/2014/1...

As a fan of the Fire Nine series by this author, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book. I believe this is her first foray into the world of erotica, and she didn’t waste any time in getting down to business.

We first meet Mya and Carlos in Key West, as they consume each other in a passionate one night stand. Neither being from that city, that should be it, right? Whether an odd coincidence or carefully planned (we find out later which is right), the two find themselves in the same room again, as business associates. But that business quickly turns to pleasure, and an “arrangement” is made.

For Carlos, arrangements are not uncommon. For Mya, she might actually be the worst woman to choose to test this with, as she has some serious personal issues. Specifically, she has issues with abandonment and has been known to become a stage-five clinger. What was odd to me, was that Carlos knew this about her, and chose to get closer anyway. Most other guys would have run long and hard away from her. Two words: PUSSY POWER! Apparently Mya has it.

This book is hot, no doubt. This couple is not afraid to explore each other anywhere and everywhere.

“I will own every single inch of you until I’m tired of you, no matter how long it takes. Do I make myself clear?”

But some scenes, lines, and ideas seemed repetitive from other books in the same genre. The part I enjoyed most was actually at the end, as we learned that Carlos has his own secrets, that could be far worse than Mya’s odd phobia. Should she run away and never look back? Hell yes! Will she? Given her behavior thru the rest of the book, I’m thinking no. But we’ll have to wait until Spring to find out. Bit of a cliffhanger here, but that was expected.

*An ARC was received for an honest review.
Profile Image for iloveladyporn.
1,280 reviews83 followers
December 26, 2014
Maya is beautiful but is going through some personal issues. When she meets Carlos, she just wants to let go and have fun. Little did she know that Carlos was going to bulldoze her life. Carlos is an alpha male no doubt, but he is giving Maya mixed signals. Maya is just a weak doormat personally, but Carlos seems to like this about her. As their time together comes to an end things happen that leave not only Maya but us reading it with a lot of questions. I just know Maya is going to run back to him and make a fool out of herself, but I hope Carlos is the one doing the one begging in the next installment. The sex scenes were hot hot hot!!!
Profile Image for Bunni.
263 reviews
April 29, 2022
Normally romance/smut stories that are short are just enough, quick entertainment me but I read this on a rec for this author's stuff in general and feeling a little reading slumpy, I went for it. A mistake was made. It took a while to read these 130 ish pages, this man was toxic and this chick was soooo annoyingly stupid. The smut scenes were not good enough to mask the stupid shit being said by the main character. For once I really wanted a dual perspective so I could have a break from reading her dumb thoughts and bad decisions. Ugh not continuing this series. I didn't have fun.
Profile Image for Toni FGMAMTC.
2,098 reviews26 followers
August 9, 2016
This story is so mysterious. It's hard to figure out exactly what is actually going on. Who is playing who, who's bad or good, etc. It's obvious that something weird, some plot is in play, but the reader just isn't privy to that information.

Mya has major issues. She isn't good with relationships or making wise decisions. Somehow, she manages to be naïve and jaded simultaneously. She has very poor judgement, and allows others to lead her easily. Mya is very insecure and lacks self-control.
Sad, I couldn't remember his name or even what he did for a living, but I opted not to care. Caring was useless. It got me nowhere, especially with men.

Carlos...I just don't know what to think about him. He does and says very suspicious things. What is his end game? He is an profitable business man, but his personal life is very questionable. Also he seems to try to antagonize Mya.

One thing these two know how to do is get it on. They can't keep off of each other. If you are looking for an erotic read, this is the one for you. Major sexfest going on. Definitely something is dangerous about the two of them being so involved. Who is it dangerous for and why?
Now that we'd come this far, there was no going back.


As I said above, if you are looking for sexy time, this book is probably for you. I had fun with it. And I will continue with the next installment to see what secrets surface and what is in store for this crazy couple.

3.5 flaming hot stars



***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***














FULL REVIEW CAN BE FOUND AT http://fangirlmomentsandmytwocents.bl...
60 reviews12 followers
November 15, 2014
I cannot form words quite yet. I will though, review to come!

EDIT:

SO I read this book in an hour and a half. I loved to hate Carlos and you will see why. I think Mya is BATshit crazy but she is sweet. There is so many twists and turns that will make you scratch your head like 'what the hell was she doing?' but then smile at how crazy she is. I love how it was fast pace but over a course of just weeks. You wanted to see what was going to happen next with each page turn. For me Mya reminds me of that movie 'Obsessed' with Beyonce in it. The woman that wanted her husband carries the same traits as Mya and you wonder at how far she will go to have Carlos forever.

I loved their chemistry. They both try to deny it and it is their downfall in the end, you can tell they have chemistry and emotions they wish they didn't feel. They have so many reactions to each other and denying it further makes them weaker than they think.

I will be dying for book three until Feb, like dying because I want to know what happens between these two. They are addicting to read about yet you want to sometimes shake the characters and say "what the hell are you thinking buddy!" yup, happened a lot yesterday.

Carlos was interesting, I mean he was sexy as hell as a character but the dominating shit he did made me want to smack him and kiss him all at the same time. You know? No? Well you will.

Mya, this girl... She is intelligent and just a little off the crazy side but hey we all have our feats and that is hers. She is like a kid though and I hope she grows in the next book because I wanted to gouge out her eyes at times. She has so much potential she just chooses to take the easy route out of fear and that is what makes her weak. She can be so much more if she believed in herself more.

My favorite parts were figuring out the little details that most people will probably see unimportant but really it will come and kick you in the butt later. You will see what I mean when you read it. If you pull out your hair in anger at how these two avoid their feelings, don't worry... I did too. It was nice, not really but hey, this book is amazing with it's plot twists and the sex was more than mind-blowing, can't forget that ;)
Profile Image for Mary Tatar.
643 reviews62 followers
December 3, 2014
Shanora Williams is one of my go to authors, so I dove into Control without a second thought. I wasn't prepared for a story of this magnitude. This wasn't your typical billionaire romance and one that is filled with so much of what I love reading. There is romance, intrigue, mystery, and suspense. I loved every minute of this book from beginning to end.


Mya and Carlos have a one-night stand in Key West while Mya is trying to get over a break up. She never imagines she will ever see this man again. Then she runs into him at her office. He is a CEO/owner of a big architecture firm that her boss is working with. This throws a wrench in her plans of never seeing him again. Carlos makes it known to her that he hasn't quite gotten his fill of her. Mya certainly doesn't think that she is in the same league as Carlos. With a little persuasion of the sexual nature, he convinces her to give in. Mya agrees to spend a few days with him working him out of her system. She quickly becomes attached to his alpha dominating ways. Carlos knows all about Mya's past attachments and makes sure she understands that their arrangement can only be sex. She agrees but can't help seeing more with him. Carlos is very secretive and hiding a few things of importance from her. Mya's issues may be the least of her problems when she realizes that Carlos' secrets are ones that could destroy her.


What I enjoyed most about this book was the chemistry between these two. It felt raw, passionate, and unique. They both served a purpose to one another. Mya is afraid of being alone, and Carlos gives her a bit of security for whatever time they are together. She decides to go out of her comfort zone and let go with him. Mya puts her insecurities away and gives in to her lust for Carlos. I liked her character a lot because she was a real person. She had flaws, and she didn't mask them. Carlos, on the other hand, took what he wanted no matter the consequences. He was selfish, arrogant, and domineering. I cringed at his behavior, but came to understand this was who he was. He had his moments where he opened up to Mya and I liked his moments of vulnerability.


This was an excellent read, everything that I would expect from Shanora and then some. I look forward to the following installment of this story. The next book is due out in February so the wait won't be too long.
Profile Image for ByoBook Club.
458 reviews40 followers
March 1, 2015
I was given this ARC for a fair and honest review.

I must say that I loved Shanora's FireNine Series and this would be my first book of hers that wasn't about that series and i have to say that i was completely surprised. This book was totally different in every possible way.

Mya and Carlos.....what do you really say about these two. i think they are a pair made for happy chaos. At many points when reading this story i wanted to throw my kindle and yell at the both of them but that doesn't make any sense and i don't want to hurt my baby. At many points Mya got on my nerves for being so submissive and i wanted her to stand up for herself. i kept yelling "do something" but i think that was part of her charm. The fact that she does nothing.

Now Carlos....i love a Dom/Alpha/Strong Male whatever you want to call them but he was it. His ways bordered on intense and controlling but that was one of the things you soon learn to love about him.

The sex scenes where steamy and the story flowed nicely so i will definitely be moving on to the next book in this series to see what happens next for these two.

~Nickea

To start, this book IS a cliffhanger! I have to say this book intrigued me from the very first chapter. I wasn't sure what to expect when I started it, whether it would be along the lines of 50 shades of grey or completely different. While they were a couple of similarities to 50 shades, this book definitely has it's own style and drama. I really enjoyed seeing the female lead come to terms with her issues, while the leading male remained quite mysterious. Control Me is well-written and attention grabbing. The plot is well thought through and it has potential to be a great series. I definitely look forward to the next book in the series!

~Jess C.
Profile Image for SammiesBookBlog.
543 reviews8 followers
November 19, 2014
I was given a ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This is really difficult. I don't know what rating I want to give this book and what I want to all say. I haven't had this hard of a time in a very long time. It's between a 3 and a 4.
I loved it, and lots of things bothered me.
The starting off is really good, the middle is good. Then Carlos gets really annoying and arrogant and I really don't like him anymore. He's a prick and I would tell him where to shove it. And then the end I loved and I was like NOOO don't end!! what is going on, I want more!!!! GAHHH.
Honestly it was good, but its pretty much like every billionaire/dom/sub book out there and it feels I have read this stuff a million times and there wasn't much that made it stand out from all the rest. Except perhaps the ending. It was a true Shanora ending and I will read part 2. I really liked Mya in the beginning and then I really didn't. She let him treat her like crap and she didn't seem to care, she accepted it and welcomed it on many occasions. More sticking up for herself at the end, but still, even then she still let him. I would of told him to take a flying leap.
Over all it was a good read and I would recommend it and will be reading the next one. I don't think it was the best thing Shanora has written though or anything spectacular, but worth the short read for sure. The sex scenes were pretty hot also, those did not disappoint at all. I'm hoping part 2 will be better and Carlos will redeem himself in my eyes. And Mya as well, girlfriend needs a backbone.
Profile Image for K.A. Graham.
Author 22 books119 followers
November 23, 2014
Shanora Williams has finally gone erotica, and boy was this one HOT HOT HOT! Quick read full of mind-blowing sex, an arrogant but sexy alpha male, and a confused but sweet girl who just wants to be wanted.

Mya is a girl with a somewhat clingy personality, brought on by heartbreak and a broken relationship from her past. She has some major insecurities because of this, and finds it hard to believe any man will ever find her sexy and worthy of affection again. In walks sex on a stick, Carlos, who wreaks absolute havoc on her life, and makes her question everything and everyone. He’s an in your face kind of guy, and takes what he wants, no questions asked. Two polar opposites, and it’s a struggle for power all the way, which makes it all the more exciting to see unfold.

Their sexual chemistry is undeniable, but is there anything past that? They both fight the feelings they have for each other, and when other people get involved, it’s a question of whether it’s all worth it in the end. There are definite lingering possibilities as to where this story can go, and I will be anxiously waiting to get my hands on book 2.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
November 15, 2014
Carlos is a very sexual man and he likes to make sure the woman he's with enjoys herself in this case that's Mya, "as if he read my thoughts, he pulled back a little and said. "Touch me. Anywhere. Let me know you're enjoying it." He's cocky, "because every woman I've slept with always remembers my name one way or another. And from what I can recall, you thoroughly enjoyed that night." He's bossy, "during these four days, you will stay at the hotel I've reserved for you. I will come by for lunch, and I will eff you. I'll leave for work again, but I will be back for dinner. We'll most likely eat together, and then I will eff you again." All I was getting out of that statement was Mya is his dirty little secret, he's hiding something, I get an uneasy feeling about it and I don't like it. I get a lot of uneasy feelings about Carlos and I truly don't like that.The story and Mya I loved Carlos has yet to earn my affections and honestly that cliffhanger wasn't bad I thought Mya did the right thing and Carlos is just an a** that is where that boy stands with me right now.
Profile Image for Nickea Williams.
104 reviews3 followers
December 2, 2014


I must say that I loved Shanora's FireNine Series and this would be my first book of hers that wasn't about that series and i have to say that i was completely surprised. This book was totally different in every possible way.

Mya and Carlos.....what do you really say about these two. i think they are a pair made for happy chaos. At many points when reading this story i wanted to throw my kindle and yell at the both of them but that doesn't make any sense and i don't want to hurt my baby. At many points Mya got on my nerves for being so submissive and i wanted her to stand up for herself. i kept yelling "do something" but i think that was part of her charm. The fact that she does nothing.

Now Carlos....i love a Dom/Alpha/Strong Male whatever you want to call them but he was it. His ways bordered on intense and controlling but that was one of the things you soon learn to love about him.

The sex scenes where steamy and the story flowed nicely so i will definitely be moving on to the next book in this series to see what happens next for these two.
Profile Image for Book Fancy .
349 reviews
December 3, 2014
An ARC provided in exchange for an honest review

Control Me is unlike any other book Shanora has written. Carols is an alpha dom who has to have control and he has decided he wants control over Mya. He is one sexy man and definitely a dirty talker! There were times I couldn't decided if I loved or hated him. Mya comes off as timid and there were definitely some times I wanted to slap some sense into her! Even though I sometimes questioned why she would do something, I still really enjoyed her character. Control Me has many twists and turns and you never know which way the story is going to go. I was flying through the pages wanting to know what was going to happen next! Oh and let's not forget the smoking hot sex scenes!

I loved the writing style, as done in true Shanora fashion. She always manages to draw me in and make me totally absorbed in her stories! I can't wait for the next book in the series to see what happens with Carlos and Mya!
Profile Image for Angie7.
979 reviews6 followers
May 4, 2015
OMG! LOVED! LOVED! this story! I had to read this because of all the negative nancies out their? I mean if they where trying to get rid of this book and this story because the girl in this story was weak... Shit! Girls stand down and step aside! Yeah all women are weak in some perspectives. Shit! that's how we roll! that girl has issues yeah! for sure but you can see where the writer is taking you...if you can't reread and wait for the next one to come! Don't pick up the book and start making assumption's! This is a story that is developing into someones HEA! Like all erotic/romance books! That's why we buy them! romance not some damn superhero! ....shit get a comic book! Although we can find one in almost every damn romance novel gezz peeps! Well I LOVED this damn story. Shanora you go girl KEEP ROCKN' my world SHIT! Don't given in to those DA!n negative nancies...their are worse stories out there that put women down and make them weak...shit it's life!
Profile Image for Amy Butterbaugh.
156 reviews1 follower
February 13, 2015
What can I say about this book, I loved it,

Two people who met one night in Key West The girl don't remember his name but she does remember that hot passionate night they spent together

When the guy shows up she finds who he is and what he does for a living He asks her boss if he can borrow here to help with the project

The boss let's her go with him but that's not the work that goes on, The share hot steamy nights together.

She grows to want him more and more, But then she fins out he is married and she's upset, But tells her it's only so he can keep in the states

There is danger from three men that confront here and tell her that he's not the man she thinks he is and that she needs to get away from him

Will she do that or find a way to stay with him?
Profile Image for Sharon.
185 reviews3 followers
March 5, 2015
Didn't like this one at all. Normally I'm not this harsh but after reading the 'Fixed on you' trilogy, this story was blah.
A lot of it didn't ad up. The guy is super rich but has a shower with a shower curtain.... So outdated. And the room....decorated especially for her.... Stupid of her to believe it... And the way she has no free will,around him. And that he knows everything about her, without a indept background check... No this story lacked.

I was wondering about the twist in the story and read the complete story. And can recommend the Fixed on you - trilogy by Laurelin Paige. With the extra 'point of view book: Hudson.
124 reviews
September 26, 2015
Not halfway through and I want to throw this thing out a window. Sex isn't everything, folks.
Mya started out being strong and overall great, but she became weak and naive. We all love a bit of innocence, sure, but this shit is just insulting. I shook my head so much and hard, I got dizzy a few times.
I really tried to finish it, honestly, but when Carlos went Edward Cullen/Christian Grey on her ass, all I could think was "motherfucker, another one of those?!".
I'm warning you, don't read it. Take it from someone who doesn't take much to make happy when looking for a perfect book - check my lists for proof - and do. Not. Read. It.
You have been warned.
Profile Image for Bridger Bitches.
590 reviews27 followers
December 4, 2014
This was an enjoyable quick read. I am really loving serial novellas as a way to fill in gaps on days where you just want to read something little. While I did enjoy this novella, it did take me a little longer than normal to get into it. It was hot and sexy but at times I found myself not loving Mya or Carlos. Even though it started of slow for me it did end strongly. Towards the end the pace really picked up and left me wanting the next installment.

3.5 ***

♥ Sophie
Profile Image for Jo.
1,605 reviews
February 28, 2015
Not sure about this one.. There was a lot that was hinted at that we don't know, but that's fine you don't want to reveal everything too soon. There was also some hot & steamy scenes, but for me it just didn't grab my attention.. I was speed reading a lot of the book so I could find out what was going on & then the book ended quite suddenly? I don't think I will continue with the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Michelle Krystel .
2,052 reviews52 followers
July 27, 2015
This book was very confusing it had a lot of twists and turns but the sexual nature of it Was very good. It's cliff hanger so you have to read the second book know what happens to mya and Carlos. I have to say carlos is very complexed man and I don't think he really knows what he wants. And Mya she just seems like head case to me someone you don't want to get involved with.
479 reviews
September 22, 2015
Not for me.

Mya is a doormat. She lets Carlos walk all over her. And the phobia of being forgotten and alone just seems way too cheesy. How Carlos keeps throwing it in her face...why would you even attempt to have a no-strings attached relationship with someone who has a fear of being left??
Profile Image for Heidi McEvoy.
39 reviews
December 3, 2014
I love when a book starts out intense and lovey and then bang someone turns into a dick. In all honesty it's kind of reality. Just in the kinky way. This book was awsome and I can't wait to read more. The back and forth between the character's were great.
Profile Image for Kelly.
1,050 reviews35 followers
December 4, 2014
Damn damn bloody damn GAHHHHHH !!!! wtf I need book 2 pleaseeeeeee

Gotta love miss Williams work, always keeps me on the edge of my seat. Mystery, super hot sexcapades and angst !!!! Love love love
Profile Image for FMR Book Grind.
2,189 reviews125 followers
December 27, 2014
Review by: Heidi




I love when a book starts out intense and lovey and then bang someone turns into a dick. In all honesty it's kind of reality. Just in the kinky way. This book was awsome and I can't wait to read more. The back and forth between the character's were great.




5 Stars
295 reviews3 followers
February 7, 2015
Shanora Williams Never Disappoints

Another well written book by Shanora Williams. Control me has little of everything. Hot romance, dominant male, submissive female, with a mystery thrown in. Looking forward to learning Carlos's story.
Profile Image for Le Ann Foster.
739 reviews5 followers
December 22, 2014
This book was Hot! Not only for the sex but the story behind it. Has you guessing all the way to the end. Can't wait for the next one.
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