Justifying Jazz

Submissives of Rawhide Ranch #12

by Lesley Clark

“You don’t have to justify yourself to anyone, Jazz.”

Desperate to escape the paparazzi trying to expose her deepest, darkest secrets, pop star Jazz heads for the sanctuary of Rawhide Ranch.

She was told to leave the world behind. To surrender herself to the will of her Dom, at least for a few precious days. To give up complete control for once in her life, and to be the submissive she’s always dreamed of being.

But Jazz has secrets she hasn’t even shared with Michael. Secrets that follow her straight to Montana.

Secrets that threaten to unravel the life Jazz has so carefully built herself…and to tear her away from the only man she’s ever truly loved if she isn’t careful.

Genres: BDSM

132 pages, Paperback

Published July 7, 2025

About the author

Lesley Clark is a USA Today bestselling author of romance with hot alpha men and sexy sassy ladies that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

She is also an unashamed southern girl with a love of all things fried and covered in bacon. Mountain Dew is the fuel that keeps her going.

When she isn’t writing or working as an RN, she is likely reading one of the thousands of books in her library. Since her nest is currently empty, she can often be found playing with her fur babies who rule her life.

Lesley writes stories with hot alpha men and sexy sassy ladies that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

When she has a spare minute between her fur babies, books, and nursing, Lesley loves to connect with her readers.

Reviews

[Rara Loves to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing well written story

I’ve read all the books in the Rawhide Ranch series, and each one has been special in its own way. But the newest book, Justifying Jazz by Lesley Clark, completely blew me away. This story was emotional, powerful, and truly unforgettable.

One of the things that I loved is that it combines two of my favorite series—Rawhide Ranch and Black Light. The crossover worked perfectly and made the story even more exciting. Jazz had a really hard childhood, and her pain felt so real on the page. It made my heart hurt for her as I read about her struggles.

Michael, her Dom and partner, was incredible. He was strong, loving, and super supportive, but what I loved most was how real he felt. He wasn’t perfect, and he had his own challenges to work through. That made me cheer for him as he tried to help Jazz heal and grow.

What made this book stand out the most for me was how real it felt. I even cried during parts when Jazz faced betrayal from people who were supposed to love her. It was heartbreaking but beautifully written. I also loved how the story showed that relationships and BDSM dynamics—aren’t static. They grow and change as the people in them change, which felt really meaningful.

If you’re looking for a book that’s emotional and will stick with you, I highly recommend Justifying Jazz. It’s an amazing book, and I think it will touch your heart like it did mine.

[Arin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an interesting read it had me at the edge of my seat waiting, wanting more/ answers it’s an enjoyable intense mystery thriller in some ways if you ask me! Jazzy is such a lovely character I love her sassy attitude especially when she tells her dom Michael “don’t threaten me with a good time “ that’s definitely something I would do but at the same time be a little nervous to say it to his face! With reading this book I want read the story that led to their relationship and jazzy best friend story as well I love the hardcore friendship they have. It reminds of another friendship in a different book series those kind always makes me so happy. There is much secretly things going on it was driving me crazy in a good way I couldn’t believe who’s behind it all that’s really annoying but the way Michael handled everything in this book is inspiring. I love his caring and how far his willingness to go to help jazzy no matter what the situation may be! Their chemistry is amazing positive you can feel it on the pages at least to me. So much to love about this book but especially the characters if you’re looking for lots of patience, mystery, sassy but full of strength female led character, crazy betrayal, and much more this is a great choice for you! I couldn’t put it down read it in one day:)

[Bethann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful story that mergers Blacklight and the Rawhide Ranch together.. Jazz who had a horrible childhood and left home at 18 to become a lead singer to the group Scarlett letter.. she is also into the BDSM LIFESTYLE being at the Blacklight she meets Michael her Dom and partner for the last few years. Now Jazz is retired from the band so she could go on to write her songs and produce them but she was asked if she would do one more performance.. a New Years Eve show for charity to support the LGBTQ and while doing the press junket her BDSM lifestyle comes out.. This set things off and Michael decides to take his girl to the Rawhide ranch where he’s hoping to get to the bottom of everything she’s been hiding from him. I’m not going to give away anything more because I received this as an ARC but I will tell you that Leslie Clark did great job with this book and it’s a great addition to the Rrlawhide Ranch series.

[Terri Trawets · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jazz has been the lead singer in the Scarlet Letter band. Now she has retired into writing and producing songs. She also lives the BDSM lifestyle as a submissive to Michael, her sexy dom. When she agrees to do one more performance on New Years Eve to raise money for the LGBTQ youth, someone attacks her lifestyle at a world-wide broadcast. Jazz goes into a full-blown panic mode. Michael decides to take her to Rawhide Ranch, where he hopes to learn more about her younger years.

I really love the way Lesley Clark slowly, yet determinedly developed the inner characters of both Jazz and Michael. Even though Jazz has kept a large part of her difficult childhood hidden in her soul, Michael is willing to wait, listen, accept, and help Jazz see the truth within her struggles. This is an excellent story!

[Fiona · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved reading this story of Jazz and her boyfriend, Michael. Jazz had come to a part in her life where she had to accept who she was and where she came from, and if she didn’t have Michael in her life I don’t think she would have made it. I really enjoyed the relationship these two had and how they were able to communicate when the chips were down. There was a lot of growth on her part and acceptance of what had occurred in her life and her biggest support being her partner and her best friend, there is a happy ending for this couple. They were some touchy subjects that came to pass in the story and how they were able to handle it.

I was given an advanced copy of this book to read and I am reviewing with my honest and fair opinion.

[Joy Westerfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t get enough of these Rawhide Ranch stories! But when one is crossed over from the Black Light series I knew it would be incredible! And it must certainly was! Jazz is a semi retired singer in a beautiful relationship with Michael, her Dom. But when an event comes up where Jazz can sing again, it puts her back in the spotlight and sometimes that isn’t all that good. When outside forces threaten Jazz, Michael will do anything to protect her, like going to the Ranch for some must needed relaxation. I thoroughly enjoyed these two and their dynamics. So much love comes off the pages and I didn’t want their story to end. My heart hurt for Jazz but I knew Michael would take care of her. So much to love about this story!

[Karon Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jazz is an enigma. Sub to her Dom she has never truly given him her all. When her anxiety and threats of exposure become too much Michael takes her to Rawhide. I loved that we first got to see this couple of Blacklight and now at RR. I would highly suggest reading the first book as it gives you a richer story. Nevertheless, Jazz and Michael start to find their way at Rawhide until an unexpected situation has all of Jazz's anxiety roaring right back. I loved that only by making herself vulnerable and truly giving her all to her Dom was she finally able to escape all the stuff weighing her down. It was a great story with no easy answers, but a wonderful HEA.

[ZJT · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one stays with you for awhile.

This is a really beautiful story, albeit the initial dross obliterated the gold. I hurt for Jazz upon finding out what she was trying to escape from. Denial, denial, denial, and with so much to lose.

Michael is her perfect counterpart, but by no means perfect. I concur with how he supports her, mentally and physically. Whatever she needs.

They have a bit of a tough go for a while, however they make their way through with honest communication and a deep abiding love for each other.

[Foodiegirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this follow up story of Jazz and her boyfriend Michael from Blacklight Valentine. Jazz hasn't yet come to a part in her life where she can talk to Michael about her past. She has grown with his help and love. Without Michael in her life I don’t think she would have made this far But when threats against her surface Michael whisks her away to Rawhide Ranch. I really enjoyed the relationship these two. With her best friends support and Michael there is a very happy ending for this couple. I am sure everyone will love this story as much as I did.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. The characters, Michael and Jazz, have been ones I've followed since I first read about them in an anthology. This story had so many feels and you might need some tissues or a crying towel because there are parts that will sucker punch you! Jazz has kept secrets and when they come to light, it's going to take everything in both of them to work through it. Michael was wonderful in helping Jazz and the emotions were real. This is such a wonderful story and will be one that I likely will reread!

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a book that is filled with names and faces from previous Rawhide books, this is not the one - the Ranch is a place for healing and refuge but nothing is really Ranch specific. If you want a book with strong characters and a gripping story, this is the one! Trigger warning, child sex abuse is discussed as it is part of Jazz's past - not in great detail but enough you can figure it out

[The Bookish Owl · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Heartbreaker

This is a little different than the other books in the series. Just an observation. I really enjoyed the Dom's creative p
unishments. This book has left me intrigued about their regular club. I will definitely be reading those books. Although they did spend time at RR, it just felt like I didn't get enough. I loved reading about the animals, of course. I appreciate how the author dealt with some serious topics.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although Rawhide Ranch is the backdrop for this story, it really doesn’t fit to me. With that being said it was an emotional roller coaster. This is more of a crossover from another series and I will have to go check that one out as it has me intrigued. The story is well written and you can connect with the characters. It was a little emotional as most of us have been betrayed and let down by those who are supposed to support us. I really like these characters and their dynamic.

[Marybeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give a book more than five stars, I would do it for this one. This book combines Black Light, where we first read Michael and Jazz's story, and Rawhide Ranch, where they first go to hide and then to heal. Jazz had a hard childhood that she had not dealt with. When her personal life is outed in the gossip rags, she now has to deal with it with Michael's help. I loved how supportive he was in helping her get through this time. The two do the hard work and get their HEA.

[Deborah Gile · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is a continuation of one started in Celebrity Roulette, an anthology in the world of Black Light. It continues the relationship of Michael and Jazz. Jazz has secrets that are coming back to haunt her and Michael, well he's not exactly happy about this.... I like Lesley's character building and the scenes do not disappoint. It appears that Rawhide Ranch has more than "Little Space" to offer. I'm going to explore this world a "little" more.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful story! Jazz had a terrible secret and was afraid Michael would leave her if he knew the truthfulness and . The care he shows and the love he feels go a long way to allaying her fears. Rawhide Ranch is a welcome sanctuary until Jazz is threatened but Michael knows hale to deal with it and the ending is so lovely.

[Shaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed returning to a Black Light couple, with a crossover to Rawhide Ranch. This is a wonderful love story of a couple and individuals becoming true to themselves and each other. We all have a past, and having someone who loves you unconditionally can help you find the peace you seek.

[Karen Komarinski · Rating 4 out of 5]

Past always finds you

Jazz has been living what she thought was her best life until a press Jacket for an upcoming charity concert turned it upside down. Michael her rock & Dom knows something from her past triggered her panic attack. With help from a friend he’s taking her to Rawhide; hoping they can move forward together

[CKD! · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jazz find herself

Jazz and Micheal have been together for three years since a magical night at Black Light, but she has not really been living her true life. Now there is a reporter out to expose her secrets and she has to come clean about her past.

This was a light story that tackled tough subjects mixed in with a D/s relationship. Well written and fast paced.

[Mom2three · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story combines two of my favorite series - Rawhide Ranch and Black Light. I'm so glad these two got their HEA, and what better place to find some healing than at RR. I loved how this story dealt with such a serious and he y subject. It was emotional and beautiful, while painful, and the ending was perfect.

[Princess TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jazz and Michael are the most beautiful match of a supportive Dom and submissive that learns to face childhood trauma and come out on the other side! This is a standalone story and you can catch the backstory of how they met in Black Light: Celebrity Roulette. This was my first read of a book by Lesley Clarke and I am obsessively devouring more of her writing.

[Suzanne Withers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this fascinating tale as it continues the story of Jazz and Michael that we started to read in Celebrity Roulette. There are many twists and turns as secrets are revealed and we get to see another side of Rawhide Ranch. This is a well written story that you will enjoy reading. This is my honest opinion.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Black Light—Rawhide Ranch Crossover

Jazz met Michael at Black Light 3 years ago. They had been together ever since. They found a Malibu home on the beach. Her past came racing back into her life. Since she hadn’t told Michael,her anxiety was such that it was imperative she share her past.

[Leann McKay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore this spin off series. Rawhide Ranch is such a safe place for Littles but now we see how safe it is for everyone. This story is one of overcoming our past, loving unconditionally and finding friends in unexpected places. A fantastic addition to the series!!

[SARAH PHELPS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Satisfying

It took me a bit to get into this story, but by the second or third chapter, I was hooked. The main characters were believable and the dynamic between Jazz and Michael was through the roof hot.

[Brina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I like how everything came full circle, but neither Jazz nor Michael decided to run from the other. On top of that, even with her family, the story was kept centered around them and everything else was kept mostly in the background. I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Maria G · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked that Jazz and Michael were both interesting and strong. They learn more about each other in this story. I felt for what Jazz went through but loved how she came through the other side.

I read an ARC and am leaving my honest and voluntary review.

[Felicity Rayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

These characters and story line are great. They pull you in and keep you wanting more. This entire series is so worth reading. When the past comes back and tries to take you out, you have to have strength.

[DMA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

This was a sexy read with great characters and an interesting story line. I loved the chemistry between these two chatacters

[Lisa Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this so much the dynamic between Jazz and Micheal is perfection he knows how to take care of his little Pixie and that's to go to Rawhide Ranch to lie low.
The past is coming to haunt Jazz. It's emotional and so full of love my heart is full. I loved these two so much.