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Rules to Live By
Four intimate tales of power exchange, discipline, risks taken, and pleasures earned.
A list of rules to live by.
In Cari Z’s House Rules, jealousy leads Jonathan to break the rules his lover has established. He can’t decide which he enjoys his punishment, or the reward afterward. Good thing he gets both.
A lesson in humility.
In The Harder They Fall by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry, spoiled college boy Tad hires a prostitute, but “Daddy” couldn’t care less about what Tad wants. Instead, he’s going to give his spoiled little boy exactly what he deserves.
A cage that means freedom.
In Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox, Marquis offers Navin the key to the most intimate of locks, hoping it will help them to prioritize their relationship. And it does—until work and insecurities threaten to drive them apart again.
A spool of rope and a desire to be bound.
In CTRL Me by Anna Zabo, a night out between friends turns hot and tempting when Gabe deliberately pushes Tom’s submissive buttons. Then Tom discovers rope in Gabe’s glove box — and not the type for securing luggage.
Word 66,400; page 248
A list of rules to live by.
In Cari Z’s House Rules, jealousy leads Jonathan to break the rules his lover has established. He can’t decide which he enjoys his punishment, or the reward afterward. Good thing he gets both.
A lesson in humility.
In The Harder They Fall by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry, spoiled college boy Tad hires a prostitute, but “Daddy” couldn’t care less about what Tad wants. Instead, he’s going to give his spoiled little boy exactly what he deserves.
A cage that means freedom.
In Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox, Marquis offers Navin the key to the most intimate of locks, hoping it will help them to prioritize their relationship. And it does—until work and insecurities threaten to drive them apart again.
A spool of rope and a desire to be bound.
In CTRL Me by Anna Zabo, a night out between friends turns hot and tempting when Gabe deliberately pushes Tom’s submissive buttons. Then Tom discovers rope in Gabe’s glove box — and not the type for securing luggage.
Word 66,400; page 248
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2015
5 people are currently reading
265 people want to read
About the author
Heidi Belleau
62 books314 followersHeidi Belleau was born and raised in small town New Brunswick, graduated with a degree in history from Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, and now lives outside of Edmonton, Alberta, with her tradesman husband and two kids. A proud bisexual woman, her writing reflects everything she loves: diverse casts of queer characters, a sense of history and place, equal parts witty and filthy dialogue, the occasional mythological twist, and most of all, love—in all its weird and wonderful forms. She is the author of the REAR ENTRANCE VIDEO series, and the co-author of THE BURNT TOAST B&B. Her latest novel DEAD RINGER, co-authored with Sam Schooler, is out now from Riptide Publishing. Her work has been reviewed in PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY, LIBRARY JOURNAL, and BOOKLIST.
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January 26, 2015Umm... so Heidi Belleau and I wrote some daddy kink.
Oh yes we did.
Who likes first times, age gaps, and smart-mouthed college boys who need an attitude adjustment?
Oh yes we did.
Who likes first times, age gaps, and smart-mouthed college boys who need an attitude adjustment?
October 6, 2015
Great collection! I'm being generous with my overall rating because I loved two of the stories SO HARD!
"Master Key" by Anah Crow & Dianne Fox- 2 stars
I couldn't wait for this story to be over.
I'm super bummed because I was REALLY excited for this one. I love, love, love the idea of chastity, and just the idea of an M/M featuring a cock cage was getting me hot and bothered! However, the rest of the story just wasn't for me.
I don't love established couple stories, and I really don't love stories where an established couple basically fights for the entire book. Navin and Marquis argued the entire time. The story was one big, long look into a dysfunctional couple, which just isn't what I like to read about. To top it off, in order for me to buy a BDSM-type story, I need the dom-type character to be, well, dom-y. Navin was sort of wishy washy and I didn't get a dominate vibe from him at all. In fact, he seemed like he was more submissive to me. I just felt like this couple was an awkward fit, and I just wanted both men to find other people. I wasn't feeling the love.
Also, and this is a bit of personal preference, but I also like my All of these things might not bother you one bit, but they were sort of disappointing for me.
Moving on to the next story!
"House Rules" by Cari Z.- 4.5 stars
LOVED this! I have a major love for domestic discipline stories, so this was just perfection for me. All fans of DD will be delighted by this one, I'm sure. It was a short story, but the love the MCs had for each other came through and their chemistry was strong and off the charts. I honestly don't think it gets much better than a DD spanking scene, so thank you, Cari Z., for reading my kinky little mind!
I just love it when a boy acts out and their man has to remind them who's in charge. So. So. Good.
"The Harder They Fall" by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry- 4.5 stars
"Take it," Daddy said again. "Take it. If Daddy wants you to choke on his cock, that's what's going to happen."
Yes please, daddy.
One of my top favorite kinks of all time is daddy kink. In fact, I think it is my favorite kink in the BDSM umbrella. And this was some top notch kinkery right here.
I think I highlighted half of this story, I loved it so much. When you combine daddy kink with a you make me a VERY happy camper.
How much do I have to pay to get a full length daddy kink story out of these two authors??? After reading this, I'm willing to pony up the dough.
"CTRL Me" by Anna Zabo- 3 stars
Not a bad story, just really not my kink.
Bondage in and of itself doesn't do much for me, but if you like ropes and people being tied up, this story is for you!
This was a sweet friends-to-lovers story with a kinky twist. I thought that the two guys got a little too serious too fast, but overall this was pretty good. I enjoyed it, but I think other readers might enjoy it even more.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
"Master Key" by Anah Crow & Dianne Fox- 2 stars
I couldn't wait for this story to be over.
I'm super bummed because I was REALLY excited for this one. I love, love, love the idea of chastity, and just the idea of an M/M featuring a cock cage was getting me hot and bothered! However, the rest of the story just wasn't for me.
I don't love established couple stories, and I really don't love stories where an established couple basically fights for the entire book. Navin and Marquis argued the entire time. The story was one big, long look into a dysfunctional couple, which just isn't what I like to read about. To top it off, in order for me to buy a BDSM-type story, I need the dom-type character to be, well, dom-y. Navin was sort of wishy washy and I didn't get a dominate vibe from him at all. In fact, he seemed like he was more submissive to me. I just felt like this couple was an awkward fit, and I just wanted both men to find other people. I wasn't feeling the love.
Also, and this is a bit of personal preference, but I also like my All of these things might not bother you one bit, but they were sort of disappointing for me.
Moving on to the next story!
"House Rules" by Cari Z.- 4.5 stars
LOVED this! I have a major love for domestic discipline stories, so this was just perfection for me. All fans of DD will be delighted by this one, I'm sure. It was a short story, but the love the MCs had for each other came through and their chemistry was strong and off the charts. I honestly don't think it gets much better than a DD spanking scene, so thank you, Cari Z., for reading my kinky little mind!
I just love it when a boy acts out and their man has to remind them who's in charge. So. So. Good.
"The Harder They Fall" by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry- 4.5 stars
"Take it," Daddy said again. "Take it. If Daddy wants you to choke on his cock, that's what's going to happen."
Yes please, daddy.
One of my top favorite kinks of all time is daddy kink. In fact, I think it is my favorite kink in the BDSM umbrella. And this was some top notch kinkery right here.
I think I highlighted half of this story, I loved it so much. When you combine daddy kink with a you make me a VERY happy camper.
How much do I have to pay to get a full length daddy kink story out of these two authors??? After reading this, I'm willing to pony up the dough.
"CTRL Me" by Anna Zabo- 3 stars
Not a bad story, just really not my kink.
Bondage in and of itself doesn't do much for me, but if you like ropes and people being tied up, this story is for you!
This was a sweet friends-to-lovers story with a kinky twist. I thought that the two guys got a little too serious too fast, but overall this was pretty good. I enjoyed it, but I think other readers might enjoy it even more.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
February 10, 2017
4.5 Stars rounded up
Let me tell you about this book. I don't do anthologies and I pre-ordered this thing! Tip of the hat, Riptide. I'm so glad I did because this is a veritable cornucopia of kink. Chances are if you're into it, it's in here.
Master Key by Anah Crow & Dianne Fox
Can I give more than 5 stars? Like all the stars?
I'm certainly biased when it comes to AC/DF, but I think this was the best constructed story of the bunch. Navin and Marquis' relationship is on the rocks, primarily due to lack of communication on both their parts. They try to put a quick kinky band aid on it that falls flat without the accompanying discussion. The secondary characters of Navin's family helped to flesh out the MCs and give the relationship and the story depth.
Side note about the dedication: I've missed you too. Seriously, where the fuck have you been? Let's not let this happen again. Ok?
Good talk.
House Rules by Cari Z.
4 Stars
I *think* this is my first Cari Z. experience and it was a goodie. Probably all I need to say is there is a Scottish, bossy, ginger top MC. Sadly, he never dons a kilt. Opportunity wasted there. Alastair and Jon have been together for 2 years and have established a set of rules that Jon bends occasionally and Alastair has to re-establish the boundaries. How much they care about one another shines through, but there was too much Hollywood talk for me.
The Harder They Fall by Lisa Henry & Heidi Belleau
4.5 Stars
Bellery strike again with the intensity. Tad is a douchenozzle who breezes into a brothel thinking he owns the place a week after humiliating one of the boys that works there and is greeted by the owner… "Daddy". Daddy takes no prisoners and Daddy is bound and determined to remake Tad into a decent human being, of course he has to break him down first. Daddy kink isn't for everyone and there seemed to be a lot of psychology behind Daddy kink that was subtly didactic, but IT WAS SO HOT! And Daddy kink ain't even my jam. I do like an age gap and a buttsex virgin who gets his cherry popped with a fat cock, though, then Bellery took this thing to the next level with the feminization. The ending isn't really believable, but fuck it. Who cares? It was an intense scene! It could happen. Suspend reality and enjoy the ride.
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo
4.5 Stars
I'm starting to like this Zabo person. Gabe and Thomas are two bisexual co-workers who decide to take a gamble on their attraction and see if they're compatible. Thomas has recently been burned by his secretly bigoted girlfriend and prior to her he was in a D/s relationship that was abusive and sent him packing from San Francisco to Pittsburgh, so he's got some baggage. He's spent the past few months becoming friends with Gabe, his cube-mate never thinking he had a chance with him. Gabe makes his move pretty aggressively and presses a lot of Thomas' buttons. How well their kinks compliment each other is a pleasant surprise to both Gabe and Thomas. I wouldn't have minded an extra chapter for a tiny bit more closure.
All these stories were well conceived, well written and kinky to varying degrees, but I think the relationships outshine the kink in all of them. Sadly, there were no MANTIES, but you can't win 'em all.
If you like kink you gotta read this book.
Let me tell you about this book. I don't do anthologies and I pre-ordered this thing! Tip of the hat, Riptide. I'm so glad I did because this is a veritable cornucopia of kink. Chances are if you're into it, it's in here.
Master Key by Anah Crow & Dianne Fox
Can I give more than 5 stars? Like all the stars?
I'm certainly biased when it comes to AC/DF, but I think this was the best constructed story of the bunch. Navin and Marquis' relationship is on the rocks, primarily due to lack of communication on both their parts. They try to put a quick kinky band aid on it that falls flat without the accompanying discussion. The secondary characters of Navin's family helped to flesh out the MCs and give the relationship and the story depth.
Side note about the dedication: I've missed you too. Seriously, where the fuck have you been? Let's not let this happen again. Ok?
Good talk.
House Rules by Cari Z.
4 Stars
I *think* this is my first Cari Z. experience and it was a goodie. Probably all I need to say is there is a Scottish, bossy, ginger top MC. Sadly, he never dons a kilt. Opportunity wasted there. Alastair and Jon have been together for 2 years and have established a set of rules that Jon bends occasionally and Alastair has to re-establish the boundaries. How much they care about one another shines through, but there was too much Hollywood talk for me.
The Harder They Fall by Lisa Henry & Heidi Belleau
4.5 Stars
Bellery strike again with the intensity. Tad is a douchenozzle who breezes into a brothel thinking he owns the place a week after humiliating one of the boys that works there and is greeted by the owner… "Daddy". Daddy takes no prisoners and Daddy is bound and determined to remake Tad into a decent human being, of course he has to break him down first. Daddy kink isn't for everyone and there seemed to be a lot of psychology behind Daddy kink that was subtly didactic, but IT WAS SO HOT! And Daddy kink ain't even my jam. I do like an age gap and a buttsex virgin who gets his cherry popped with a fat cock, though, then Bellery took this thing to the next level with the feminization. The ending isn't really believable, but fuck it. Who cares? It was an intense scene! It could happen. Suspend reality and enjoy the ride.
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo
4.5 Stars
I'm starting to like this Zabo person. Gabe and Thomas are two bisexual co-workers who decide to take a gamble on their attraction and see if they're compatible. Thomas has recently been burned by his secretly bigoted girlfriend and prior to her he was in a D/s relationship that was abusive and sent him packing from San Francisco to Pittsburgh, so he's got some baggage. He's spent the past few months becoming friends with Gabe, his cube-mate never thinking he had a chance with him. Gabe makes his move pretty aggressively and presses a lot of Thomas' buttons. How well their kinks compliment each other is a pleasant surprise to both Gabe and Thomas. I wouldn't have minded an extra chapter for a tiny bit more closure.
All these stories were well conceived, well written and kinky to varying degrees, but I think the relationships outshine the kink in all of them. Sadly, there were no MANTIES, but you can't win 'em all.
If you like kink you gotta read this book.
June 20, 2015
Overall, this anthology featured a good mix of kinks from bondage to DD to Daddy kink and chastity play. Rating it as a whole is tricky. I like the mix, some executions were better than others, and I have my peccadillos. Somewhere between 3.5-4 stars, but closer to 4, so I'll round up my rating.
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox: 3 stars
Generous rating. Had so many elements that I love, but the pace just stuttered--much like Navin and Marquis' relationship. Needless to say, an emerging kinkster story that missed a bit. I suspect that the female representations might have had something to do with it; they were strong-willed (yay!), but they came across like harpies. Additionally, way too much time was spent inside their heads listening to their thoughts and fears rather than seeing them revealed via the story. That said, one of my favorite aspects of this story was minority characters without the fetishizing.
House Rules by Cari Z: 4.5 stars
Domestic discipline can be hit or miss with me, and this was a hit. I need absolute accord between the parties--check. I need a legitimate reason for both parties to take this step, can't be just faux spanking--check. And I need to see it work, not just the struggles that lead to discipline, I need to see the couple work on both sides of the equation--check.
I fell a little in love with Jon, his character with all it's foibles. He's not perfect, frankly, he's high maintenance, but I really liked him. More important the relationship with Alistair and Jon was well developed in such a short story. Might be upping the individual score depending on how much it resonates while reading the rest.
The Harder They Fall by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry: ?TBD? stars
I really like Daddy kink. It's a special relationship that is predicated on trust, and since there's a lot more going on than just physical with a Daddy/boy relationship that line between pushing and violation is thin. There were a couple things here that really didn't work for me and yanked me right out of it. First and foremost the lack of communication. You can't set up this relationship going into to it backwards and that's what I felt like happened here. If Tad had been aware of the endgame when the set up changed, then I would have reveled in the CBT and humiliation. Because he wasn't aware, I felt furious by what was going on and couldn't enjoy the story. It didn't feel romantic or caring; it felt like a major violation.
Frankly, I would have bitten through the fucker's Achilles' tendon with my teeth at one point.
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo: 4 stars
Rope bondage, hello. Well, this appealed to me right from the get-go. Loved the trust and care between Tom and Gabe. Friends to lovers always has a soft-spot in my heart, and this one just checked all the boxes along the way.
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox: 3 stars
Generous rating. Had so many elements that I love, but the pace just stuttered--much like Navin and Marquis' relationship. Needless to say, an emerging kinkster story that missed a bit. I suspect that the female representations might have had something to do with it; they were strong-willed (yay!), but they came across like harpies. Additionally, way too much time was spent inside their heads listening to their thoughts and fears rather than seeing them revealed via the story. That said, one of my favorite aspects of this story was minority characters without the fetishizing.
House Rules by Cari Z: 4.5 stars
Domestic discipline can be hit or miss with me, and this was a hit. I need absolute accord between the parties--check. I need a legitimate reason for both parties to take this step, can't be just faux spanking--check. And I need to see it work, not just the struggles that lead to discipline, I need to see the couple work on both sides of the equation--check.
I fell a little in love with Jon, his character with all it's foibles. He's not perfect, frankly, he's high maintenance, but I really liked him. More important the relationship with Alistair and Jon was well developed in such a short story. Might be upping the individual score depending on how much it resonates while reading the rest.
The Harder They Fall by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry: ?TBD? stars
I really like Daddy kink. It's a special relationship that is predicated on trust, and since there's a lot more going on than just physical with a Daddy/boy relationship that line between pushing and violation is thin. There were a couple things here that really didn't work for me and yanked me right out of it. First and foremost the lack of communication. You can't set up this relationship going into to it backwards and that's what I felt like happened here. If Tad had been aware of the endgame when the set up changed, then I would have reveled in the CBT and humiliation. Because he wasn't aware, I felt furious by what was going on and couldn't enjoy the story. It didn't feel romantic or caring; it felt like a major violation.
Frankly, I would have bitten through the fucker's Achilles' tendon with my teeth at one point.
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo: 4 stars
Rope bondage, hello. Well, this appealed to me right from the get-go. Loved the trust and care between Tom and Gabe. Friends to lovers always has a soft-spot in my heart, and this one just checked all the boxes along the way.
July 26, 2016
One of the best anthologies I've read. Each story a solid 4 or 4.5 for me.
If I had to pick a favorite...CTRL Me by Anna Zabo.
(Thomas in subspace? *shivers*)
But they were all so good.
4.5, rounded up to 5 stars.
If I had to pick a favorite...CTRL Me by Anna Zabo.
(Thomas in subspace? *shivers*)
But they were all so good.
4.5, rounded up to 5 stars.
June 7, 2015
Good overall anthology with two X 3.5 star reads and two X 4.5 star reads so it rounds out to 4 stars which is bang on for Rules To Live By.
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox 3.5 Stars
All about learning what is important, including communication, for an established couple where one keeps "forgetting" the other because work recognition and praise are deemed more important. Where one's desire for a less vanilla lifestyle isn't easily expressed, and neither is the feeling of being invisible for another.
House Rules by Cari Z 3.5 Stars
A nice novella about another established (Hollywood) couple where one is HIV positive and the other has utilised a whiteboard list as a methodology to keep his partner healthy - eating, taking medications, being mindful of himself. A DD relationship is at the heart and the author mixes actual Hollywood characters with fictional characters well. Nice writing.
The Harder They Fall by Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau 4.5 Stars
Tad is a spoiled, rich, college brat who likes to go to the local brothel and bully the workers. But this Friday night things have changed, and when he thinks he'll get a bit bratty with the oldest worker in the establishment, he's in for a rude awakening. A very specific kink in this one...Daddy Kink.... and I loved it. I was interested how the authors could turn Tad the jerk around in the page count. They not only did that, they made it sexy reading as well. Oh... how I hope the authors use more of this pairing - "Daddy" and Tad, with maybe a side-serve of Conor. Yes please!
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo 4.5 Stars
Bi co-workers find out that they have much more in common than sharing the same cubicle at work, a bit of lycra bicycling, and darts. Some blue rope turns into a very sexy time for both Tom and Gabe, and Tom finds his move from San Fran to Pittsburgh really, REALLY worth it. Very erotic writing with a slow burn and then, bam! ~ feelin' hot, hot, hot!
Overall:
If you like some rules and regs. and some BDSM/discipline, and associated kink, Rules To Live By is a strong anthology. The Harder They Fall and CTRL Me were scorchers and hit the right personal notes for me, but all the stories meshed nicely together to create a good overall read. The average ratings per book gives Rules To Live By a 4 Stars rating from me
More in depth review is on the blog. Probably NSFW but it is restrained, for me
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox 3.5 Stars
All about learning what is important, including communication, for an established couple where one keeps "forgetting" the other because work recognition and praise are deemed more important. Where one's desire for a less vanilla lifestyle isn't easily expressed, and neither is the feeling of being invisible for another.
House Rules by Cari Z 3.5 Stars
A nice novella about another established (Hollywood) couple where one is HIV positive and the other has utilised a whiteboard list as a methodology to keep his partner healthy - eating, taking medications, being mindful of himself. A DD relationship is at the heart and the author mixes actual Hollywood characters with fictional characters well. Nice writing.
The Harder They Fall by Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau 4.5 Stars
Tad is a spoiled, rich, college brat who likes to go to the local brothel and bully the workers. But this Friday night things have changed, and when he thinks he'll get a bit bratty with the oldest worker in the establishment, he's in for a rude awakening. A very specific kink in this one...Daddy Kink.... and I loved it. I was interested how the authors could turn Tad the jerk around in the page count. They not only did that, they made it sexy reading as well. Oh... how I hope the authors use more of this pairing - "Daddy" and Tad, with maybe a side-serve of Conor. Yes please!
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo 4.5 Stars
Bi co-workers find out that they have much more in common than sharing the same cubicle at work, a bit of lycra bicycling, and darts. Some blue rope turns into a very sexy time for both Tom and Gabe, and Tom finds his move from San Fran to Pittsburgh really, REALLY worth it. Very erotic writing with a slow burn and then, bam! ~ feelin' hot, hot, hot!
Overall:
If you like some rules and regs. and some BDSM/discipline, and associated kink, Rules To Live By is a strong anthology. The Harder They Fall and CTRL Me were scorchers and hit the right personal notes for me, but all the stories meshed nicely together to create a good overall read. The average ratings per book gives Rules To Live By a 4 Stars rating from me
More in depth review is on the blog. Probably NSFW but it is restrained, for me
June 7, 2015
A pretty good anthology, though not quite 4-star territory. Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau's entry was by far my favourite.
I'd recommend 'Rules to Live By' for MM readers who like a nice dose of kink with their romance.
'House Rules' by Cari Z.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Jon, a screenwriter, and Alastair, an actor, have been nominated for Oscars, and are also partners in a domestic discipline relationship. Jon, who doesn't like crowds, skips the event and stays at home. After feeling neglected by his lover, Jon decides to break some of the rules, which he knows he'll have to pay for. 'House Rules' came very close to 4 stars, but then it just ended. It's the shortest story in the anthology, and more than half of it doesn't include Alastair. The kink was hot, but I wanted more of the story with Alastair in it. But still, a sweet and sexy read.
'The Harder They Fall' by Heidi Belleau & Lisa Henry
Rating: 4.25 stars
Tad is a spoiled rich kid with a mean streak. He particularly likes making other feel bad about themselves, especially prostitutes. Daddy's seen what Tad does, and he's determined to make Tad in to a good boy. This was exactly what I'd expect from Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau. Sexy, kinky, with some feels, and just a tad skeevy. I was pleasantly surprised that Daddy wasn't just teaching Tad a lesson, and that he actually felt something. I really enjoyed this short. I'd love to read a sequel!
'CTRL Me' by Anna Zabo
Rating: 3 stars
Thomas has secretly been crushing on his coworker/best friend ever since he moved from San Francisco to Pittsburgh. Gabe also liked Thomas, but he waited too long. When Gabe realizes that Thomas is newly single, he swoops in before someone else can take Thomas away again. Overall, I liked this kinky friends-to-lovers tale. Bondage isn't really my thing, but it was a fairly sexy read. I also liked the comfort/healing aspect.
'Master Key' by Anah Crow & Dianne Fox
No rating. After reading some of the reviews, I decided to skip this one.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
I'd recommend 'Rules to Live By' for MM readers who like a nice dose of kink with their romance.
'House Rules' by Cari Z.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Jon, a screenwriter, and Alastair, an actor, have been nominated for Oscars, and are also partners in a domestic discipline relationship. Jon, who doesn't like crowds, skips the event and stays at home. After feeling neglected by his lover, Jon decides to break some of the rules, which he knows he'll have to pay for. 'House Rules' came very close to 4 stars, but then it just ended. It's the shortest story in the anthology, and more than half of it doesn't include Alastair. The kink was hot, but I wanted more of the story with Alastair in it. But still, a sweet and sexy read.
'The Harder They Fall' by Heidi Belleau & Lisa Henry
Rating: 4.25 stars
Tad is a spoiled rich kid with a mean streak. He particularly likes making other feel bad about themselves, especially prostitutes. Daddy's seen what Tad does, and he's determined to make Tad in to a good boy. This was exactly what I'd expect from Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau. Sexy, kinky, with some feels, and just a tad skeevy. I was pleasantly surprised that Daddy wasn't just teaching Tad a lesson, and that he actually felt something. I really enjoyed this short. I'd love to read a sequel!
'CTRL Me' by Anna Zabo
Rating: 3 stars
Thomas has secretly been crushing on his coworker/best friend ever since he moved from San Francisco to Pittsburgh. Gabe also liked Thomas, but he waited too long. When Gabe realizes that Thomas is newly single, he swoops in before someone else can take Thomas away again. Overall, I liked this kinky friends-to-lovers tale. Bondage isn't really my thing, but it was a fairly sexy read. I also liked the comfort/healing aspect.
'Master Key' by Anah Crow & Dianne Fox
No rating. After reading some of the reviews, I decided to skip this one.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
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March 19, 2018ETA: Out of print as of March 2018. I plan to re-release CTRL Me, perhaps with a little more of Gabe and Thomas's story, but I'm not sure of the timing.
Contains my 14,000-word short story CTRL Me. Bisexual geeks with rope.
Contains my 14,000-word short story CTRL Me. Bisexual geeks with rope.
Want to read
February 17, 2015
September 29, 2015
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox - 4 stars
House Rules by Cari Z - 4 stars
The Harder They Fall by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry - 5 stars
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo - 2 stars
Master Key. This was a lovely read. And a gentle way to be introduced in the BDSM anthology in the book. The initial exploration of a couple into the BDSM realm. It felt very real and convincing to me.
House Rules. Quite a new concept to read about a relationship where one of the characters suffers from HIV. Liked this couple.
The Harder They Fall. Wow... scorching hot! Hit all the right buttons for me! I kind of disliked Tad and did think he needed to be brought down a peg. And 'Daddy' sure took care of that! Yup. Give me more of that!
CTRL Me. Seemed to be the weakest in the anthology.
House Rules by Cari Z - 4 stars
The Harder They Fall by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry - 5 stars
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo - 2 stars
Master Key. This was a lovely read. And a gentle way to be introduced in the BDSM anthology in the book. The initial exploration of a couple into the BDSM realm. It felt very real and convincing to me.
House Rules. Quite a new concept to read about a relationship where one of the characters suffers from HIV. Liked this couple.
The Harder They Fall. Wow... scorching hot! Hit all the right buttons for me! I kind of disliked Tad and did think he needed to be brought down a peg. And 'Daddy' sure took care of that! Yup. Give me more of that!
CTRL Me. Seemed to be the weakest in the anthology.
February 26, 2015
Fantastic anthology. standout stories for me were Master Key and House Rules, but Master Key was probably my absolute favorite. And I have to give a shout out to Anna Zabo for some sexy, sexy rope scenes.
Highly recommend this antho to fans of kink. :)
Highly recommend this antho to fans of kink. :)
dnf-not-4-me
November 6, 2016Story #1:
Story #2
Story #3:
Story #4: CLRL Me by Anna Zebo 4 stars
Story #2
Story #3:
Story #4: CLRL Me by Anna Zebo 4 stars
Want to read
February 23, 2015Yaaaay! I got approved for an ARC on Netgalley! :)
March 26, 2015
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox
Navin is surrounded by family in control of their company and feels he can’t live up to their expectations for him—until he starts dating Marquis, and Marq offers Navin the key to his cock cage. It’s because of Marq’s need to be reminded that Navin is important to him and that he needs to make an effort to always be on time for Navin, but it has an unexpected, empowering effect on Navin as it gives him courage to take control in other areas of his life, including his role in his family’s company. The idea seems to be working until one too many things go wrong in one day for Marquis to handle, and he allows himself to doubt his need to submit to Navin in this way. The two nearly don’t get their HEA, but thankfully the simple solution of communication works to get both men back on track. I enjoyed the development of the characters in this story and would like to see it expanded. There’s so much more to explore in their fledgling D/s relationship, and they are so interesting that they deserve their own book. 4 stars
House Rules by Cari Z.
Jonathan lives by the rules established by his lover, Alistair Fraser, an actor who seems to be in a bromance with his co-star in the film that was written by Jonathan himself. Deliberately breaking the rules when he becomes jealous after watching the men on the Academy Awards broadcast, he’s looking forward to a reward after the punishment he knows he deserves. He doesn’t get exactly what he wanted, but he does get the punishment from a master who very evidently loves him enough to do what’s best for him, not what he wants. This is a shorter story than the others in the anthology, but presents a nice glimpse of domestic discipline. 4 stars
The Harder They Fall by Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau
A spoiled and neglected rich kid, Tad cashes his allowance in small bills to hire a prostitute at the fancy brothel he recently found, and he’s looking forward to another night of domination and dishing out humiliation on a whore. But instead of getting an old washed-up whore like he requests, he gets “Daddy”, a big, strong, gorgeous, older man with a major dominant streak. And Daddy doesn’t care what Tad wants, Daddy is going to give Tad what he deserves. This is a great story, perfect for those who like some Daddy in their Doms. I would definitely like to read more about these MCs. 5 stars
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo
After breaking up with his homophobic girlfriend when she finds out he is bisexual, Tom agrees to go out with his best friend Gabe on his usual Thursday date night. Little does Tom know that he’s actually accepted a date with a man who can push all of his submissive buttons. Both techies and co-workers, Tom had no idea that Gabe was bi as well. One glance at the length of soft blue rope in Gabe’s glove compartment leads Tom to hope for more than just sex, and it appears that Gabe is just the man to give it to him. This story was a wonderful tale of giving up control through rope bondage. Like some of the other stories, there’s plenty of room here to expand this story, although it felt more complete than many of the others in this book. 5 stars.
My overall rating of 4.5 stars was based on an average of the individual ratings. This would be a good place for someone new to BDSM to start reading. The very talented authors in this volume explore several different aspects of the BDSM lifestyle, enough to give a newcomer inspiration to continue to read more, or to decide that it is not an area they are interested in exploring further.
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox
Navin is surrounded by family in control of their company and feels he can’t live up to their expectations for him—until he starts dating Marquis, and Marq offers Navin the key to his cock cage. It’s because of Marq’s need to be reminded that Navin is important to him and that he needs to make an effort to always be on time for Navin, but it has an unexpected, empowering effect on Navin as it gives him courage to take control in other areas of his life, including his role in his family’s company. The idea seems to be working until one too many things go wrong in one day for Marquis to handle, and he allows himself to doubt his need to submit to Navin in this way. The two nearly don’t get their HEA, but thankfully the simple solution of communication works to get both men back on track. I enjoyed the development of the characters in this story and would like to see it expanded. There’s so much more to explore in their fledgling D/s relationship, and they are so interesting that they deserve their own book. 4 stars
House Rules by Cari Z.
Jonathan lives by the rules established by his lover, Alistair Fraser, an actor who seems to be in a bromance with his co-star in the film that was written by Jonathan himself. Deliberately breaking the rules when he becomes jealous after watching the men on the Academy Awards broadcast, he’s looking forward to a reward after the punishment he knows he deserves. He doesn’t get exactly what he wanted, but he does get the punishment from a master who very evidently loves him enough to do what’s best for him, not what he wants. This is a shorter story than the others in the anthology, but presents a nice glimpse of domestic discipline. 4 stars
The Harder They Fall by Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau
A spoiled and neglected rich kid, Tad cashes his allowance in small bills to hire a prostitute at the fancy brothel he recently found, and he’s looking forward to another night of domination and dishing out humiliation on a whore. But instead of getting an old washed-up whore like he requests, he gets “Daddy”, a big, strong, gorgeous, older man with a major dominant streak. And Daddy doesn’t care what Tad wants, Daddy is going to give Tad what he deserves. This is a great story, perfect for those who like some Daddy in their Doms. I would definitely like to read more about these MCs. 5 stars
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo
After breaking up with his homophobic girlfriend when she finds out he is bisexual, Tom agrees to go out with his best friend Gabe on his usual Thursday date night. Little does Tom know that he’s actually accepted a date with a man who can push all of his submissive buttons. Both techies and co-workers, Tom had no idea that Gabe was bi as well. One glance at the length of soft blue rope in Gabe’s glove compartment leads Tom to hope for more than just sex, and it appears that Gabe is just the man to give it to him. This story was a wonderful tale of giving up control through rope bondage. Like some of the other stories, there’s plenty of room here to expand this story, although it felt more complete than many of the others in this book. 5 stars.
My overall rating of 4.5 stars was based on an average of the individual ratings. This would be a good place for someone new to BDSM to start reading. The very talented authors in this volume explore several different aspects of the BDSM lifestyle, enough to give a newcomer inspiration to continue to read more, or to decide that it is not an area they are interested in exploring further.
October 13, 2015
So this series of books were basically about different variations on domestic discipline and D/S relationships. We had a vanilla couple trying out some D/S to add some structure to their relationship, we had an established DD couple, Daddy discipline and a new couple into D/S and bondage.
A Master Key
This story is basically about a couple who have been together for a year and are currently having some issues and they attempt to add some D/S aspects to their relationship to help balance it. I Loved how real this couple felt, they had to talk to work out their issues and the 'techniques' they tried didn't magically fix everything.
Because this was Anah Crow and Dianne Fox, of course it had some delicious scenes that caused perspiration.
I also loved how this was a interracial couple and the more dominant partner was more of a 'bottom' and got a rough fuck from his submissive - HOT!!!
House Rules
This one was a really short story. It built up and introduced us to these characters and their lives in a great amount of detail, but then it kind of just ended. I was left with alot of questions about what would happen to some of the side characters, or how this potential conflict would resolve, with no conclusion.
There was absolutely nothing wrong with the story, it was very very intriguing, but i would have loved an extra 4 or 5 chapters to make things feel complete.
The Harder they Fall
This book was super hot! If you enjoy Daddy and Humiliation kinks, which i totally do, so this book was SUPER HOT!
So Tad was such a petty bitch at the start of the book i had no idea how I'd make it through the book without wanting to punch him, then by the end i was feeling a little sorry for him... no idea how it got to there.
It was a fun scene to read and yes totally unrealistic, but who cares, it was HOT and dirty!
CTRL Me
This was one of my favourites, I loved the writing style, I felt Tom's nervous energy as I was reading it and i loved that. Every time he was called 'Thomas', I felt those shivers as well.
This book mainly centres about two friend who become lovers and share a love for Shibari. These were cute characters and would have liked to see more scenes between them, because they were well in subspace!
A Master Key
This story is basically about a couple who have been together for a year and are currently having some issues and they attempt to add some D/S aspects to their relationship to help balance it. I Loved how real this couple felt, they had to talk to work out their issues and the 'techniques' they tried didn't magically fix everything.
Because this was Anah Crow and Dianne Fox, of course it had some delicious scenes that caused perspiration.
I also loved how this was a interracial couple and the more dominant partner was more of a 'bottom' and got a rough fuck from his submissive - HOT!!!
House Rules
This one was a really short story. It built up and introduced us to these characters and their lives in a great amount of detail, but then it kind of just ended. I was left with alot of questions about what would happen to some of the side characters, or how this potential conflict would resolve, with no conclusion.
There was absolutely nothing wrong with the story, it was very very intriguing, but i would have loved an extra 4 or 5 chapters to make things feel complete.
The Harder they Fall
This book was super hot! If you enjoy Daddy and Humiliation kinks, which i totally do, so this book was SUPER HOT!
So Tad was such a petty bitch at the start of the book i had no idea how I'd make it through the book without wanting to punch him, then by the end i was feeling a little sorry for him... no idea how it got to there.
It was a fun scene to read and yes totally unrealistic, but who cares, it was HOT and dirty!
CTRL Me
This was one of my favourites, I loved the writing style, I felt Tom's nervous energy as I was reading it and i loved that. Every time he was called 'Thomas', I felt those shivers as well.
This book mainly centres about two friend who become lovers and share a love for Shibari. These were cute characters and would have liked to see more scenes between them, because they were well in subspace!
March 4, 2015
3 stars overall.
The Master Key- 2.5 stars. So glad that's over. I liked Navin & Marquis when it first started off, but they it just bored me to freaking pieces. I felt no connection, and I didn't believe that being together for a year and neither one of them mentioned Love until they were trying to keep their barely contained relationship together. I didn't respond well to either guy it was like they were the same to me. I was bored by them
A List of Rules to live by- 4 stars. I really liked Alastair, he was freaking amazing. That scottish accent and firm tone was all I needed. I wish I could have gotten more with these two. I loved Jon's stubbornness and I found their relationship quite pleasing. While the first story should have been shorter, I wish this one was longer.
The Harder they Fall- DNF .
CTRL Me- 3.5 star I liked this one enough. I found Gabe very hot with that damn tattoo. Damn Thomas was so observant . I really enjoyed their story, I was I could have read about the shibari scene. The writing flowed perfectly to me.
The Master Key- 2.5 stars. So glad that's over. I liked Navin & Marquis when it first started off, but they it just bored me to freaking pieces. I felt no connection, and I didn't believe that being together for a year and neither one of them mentioned Love until they were trying to keep their barely contained relationship together. I didn't respond well to either guy it was like they were the same to me. I was bored by them
A List of Rules to live by- 4 stars. I really liked Alastair, he was freaking amazing. That scottish accent and firm tone was all I needed. I wish I could have gotten more with these two. I loved Jon's stubbornness and I found their relationship quite pleasing. While the first story should have been shorter, I wish this one was longer.
The Harder they Fall- DNF .
CTRL Me- 3.5 star I liked this one enough. I found Gabe very hot with that damn tattoo. Damn Thomas was so observant . I really enjoyed their story, I was I could have read about the shibari scene. The writing flowed perfectly to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2015
I've read and thoroughly enjoyed books by each of these authors before. So I picked up this anthology with a load of expectations.
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox - 2.5 stars.
One word - boring.
Also, the heroes' transition to BDSM seemed too abrupt. One moment they were an ordinary couple, the next - they're implementing rules and such. And while in Marq's case there was a backstory of always being intrigued by the lifestyle, for Navin it was all new. Yet Navin jumps smoothly into the role of a Dom, hardly ruffled by it. Considering his behavior around his family, the sudden dominant streak he developed was confusing and seemed out of character.
House Rules by Cari Z. - 3.5 stars.
I love Cari Z's writing, it's always engaging. This story was lovely, but there wasn't much meat on the bones. I wanted to know MORE, but the author just glided over the story, giving a brief glimpse into the heroes' lives, but not delving any deeper. Frustrating.
The Harder They Fall by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry - 2 stars.
Disappointed as hell...
I didn't like either of the heroes, I didn't like the methods Daddy (what was the man's name again?) used to bring Tad to heel. I rarely like Daddy kink, and here it was a miss for me. And the humiliation, I like that even less. So, the story was mostly PWP, and the tentative HFN wasn't believable at all.
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo - 3 stars.
This was a sweet friends-to-lovers story. There was a kinky twist, of course, but it was mostly sweet.
Overall, not a bad anthology at all, yet I was glad when I was done with it.
**ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.**
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox - 2.5 stars.
One word - boring.
Also, the heroes' transition to BDSM seemed too abrupt. One moment they were an ordinary couple, the next - they're implementing rules and such. And while in Marq's case there was a backstory of always being intrigued by the lifestyle, for Navin it was all new. Yet Navin jumps smoothly into the role of a Dom, hardly ruffled by it. Considering his behavior around his family, the sudden dominant streak he developed was confusing and seemed out of character.
House Rules by Cari Z. - 3.5 stars.
I love Cari Z's writing, it's always engaging. This story was lovely, but there wasn't much meat on the bones. I wanted to know MORE, but the author just glided over the story, giving a brief glimpse into the heroes' lives, but not delving any deeper. Frustrating.
The Harder They Fall by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry - 2 stars.
Disappointed as hell...
I didn't like either of the heroes, I didn't like the methods Daddy (what was the man's name again?) used to bring Tad to heel. I rarely like Daddy kink, and here it was a miss for me. And the humiliation, I like that even less. So, the story was mostly PWP, and the tentative HFN wasn't believable at all.
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo - 3 stars.
This was a sweet friends-to-lovers story. There was a kinky twist, of course, but it was mostly sweet.
Overall, not a bad anthology at all, yet I was glad when I was done with it.
**ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.**
April 7, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Pick up this anthology and you’ll be treated to four very different stories that all encompass the need for control. I loved the wide selection of themes included inside, and it made for a fantastic read. If BDSM is your kink, then I can absolutely recommend this anthology to you. You won’t be disappointed.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Pick up this anthology and you’ll be treated to four very different stories that all encompass the need for control. I loved the wide selection of themes included inside, and it made for a fantastic read. If BDSM is your kink, then I can absolutely recommend this anthology to you. You won’t be disappointed.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
February 15, 2016
The more I read of Anthologies, the more I like them. This anthology offered a little something for everyone. Some of it was not 100% my usual cup of tea (i.e. the Daddy Kink in Lesson In Humility) but even when that was the case - I fully enjoyed each story. I've definitely got some new authors to look up - which really - mission accomplished imo. Now someone please tell me that Jon an Al from House Rules have more stories somewhere!
March 15, 2020
A great anthology! Four short stories to make your day more pleasant ;)
RTC
RTC
June 20, 2015
Reviewed for The Novel Approach.
This short anthology features four short stories featuring different couples experimenting with or engaging in BDSM. Seeing as there are only four stories, I decided to review each one on its own to give credit where credit is due.
In “Master Key,” Anah Crow and Dianne Fox have crafted a story about an interracial couple beginning to test the waters of BDSM. Marquis has had the desire to experiment before, but he’s never mentioned this to Navin. Navin, meanwhile, is growing frustrated because it seems that he is constantly being pushed aside in favor of work. And it’s true, because Marquis forgets a lot. I mean, his memory is worse than mine. Marquis thinks he finds a solution involving his secret desires, but as always, things don’t go as planned.
I enjoyed the dynamics between Marquis and Navin. They both come from different backgrounds, but they’re comfortable—for the most part—in who they are. More interesting is how they balance power. In his day job Marquis is important and responsible for a lot. He has a lot of power it seems, and he’s always working. He pretty much takes workaholic to another level. He’s just that dedicated. But he craves more, wanting to experience things as a submissive. Navin, on the other hand, has very little power in his family business. He’s pretty much described as his mother’s purse at the start of the story, and I felt for him. His older brother screws up a lot, and makes life difficult for Navin. But while he seems to be a pushover, once Marquis gives him the power, a Dominant side comes out that both men love.
This switch was great. It gave both characters depth, and I cheered for them the entire time. They have their bumps in the road, but what relationship doesn’t?
The second story is “House Rules” by Cari Z, which features two Hollywood stars: one an actor, the other a screenwriter. Shorter by far than the first story, this focuses on Jon at home the night of the Oscars, watching his partner, Alistair, on the red carpet. The description in the blurb makes it sound pretty lighthearted, but it has a lot of depth for such a short story. Jon not only has difficulty being in the spotlight, but a crazy lifestyle when he was younger has left him with HIV. Alistair helps ground him by setting rules for him to go by whenever he’s away from home, filming or doing publicity. After he’s been away for too long, Jon starts to neglect the rules and his health starts to suffer as a result. When Alistair comes home, he has to deal with Jon’s jealousy and the after effects.
This really tugged at my heart. Alistair is a strong, calm Dom who clearly cares for his partner and wants what is best for him. And Jon might be whiny at times, but he grows over the course of the story when he realizes Alistair really does want the best. Even though it did have its serious moments, I laughed hard when Jon received his first smack and he yelled “Jesus Christ!” and Alistair’s simple response was, “The Lord isn’t considered a unit of measurement, Jonathan. Try again.” Brilliant. I think for the next few days every time I utter that phrase, I’ll be thinking of that line.
Next up is “The Harder They Fall,” co-written by Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau. This one may not be for everyone. To be honest, throughout I was torn between loving it and being so bothered by it that I didn’t want to love it. But I guess that’s good writing, right?
This one follows Tad, a rich, spoiled brat, as he returns to a brothel in order to get some release. He’s gone before, and in his last visit he got Conor, the newest guy there, and treated him terribly. Seems he has a thing for being in control and abusing people. This time he decides he wants the oldest man there so he can further exert his power and abuse. What he gets might be the oldest man there, but he’s in for a surprise. Instead of being in control, this man, who insists Tad call him Daddy, is in complete control, and Tad is torn between going with it, and leaving. He fights at first, but then he decides to see what happens. He struggles the entire time they’re together and doesn’t just fall for the man, but the ending had a pleasant twist that I didn’t see coming.
Tad is pretty much the stereotypical spoiled rich boy. He hasn’t a care in the world, knows his absent parents will bail him out and do whatever he wants just to save face, and so he lacks all control even though he thinks he has it all. Daddy is pretty straightforward for the most part. He’s a Dom, he treats Tad like a little boy (and girl, sometimes, which disturbed me a bit), and expects his commands followed. The push and pull of their meeting was what kept me reading, because I wanted to know what followed. Even though Tad was a complete jerk to Conor, I did feel for him. Sure he has money, but as he points out later in the story, once everyone—friends included—have their money, they leave because that’s all they expect from him. So, though he’s terrible and has no empathy whatsoever, he was still a mildly sympathetic character. I would actually like to read a full story between them to watch Tad’s progress.
Finally, last but not least, “CTRL Me” by Anna Zabo. Tom and Gabe work together coding and share a cubicle. After a breakup with his girlfriend, bisexual Tom is asked out for a drink by Gabe, who he’s had a crush on since he moved to Pennsylvania. In Gabe’s car, he finds rope. Of course, Tom is a sub, and this immediately turns him on, but Gabe isn’t gay. And this isn’t a date. Or is it? Turns out it is, and not only is Gabe also bisexual, but he’s a Dom, and he’s wanted Tom for just as long.
Gabe and Tom click really well together. Their time out—and in—just felt natural, and I didn’t really think I was reading a first date between them. There was a lot of chemistry between them. Gabe has a thing for shibari—rope work—and Tom is eager to participate. He loves being tied up. The two just complement each other really well. Both are strong in their roles, and both enjoy and dislike the same things when it comes to BDSM. I would have loved if the story continued on to the party on Saturday where Gabe is going to demonstrate rope work on Tom. Heck, I’d like to read beyond that to see how they deal with dating at work, pushing each other to the next level, and so on.
As a whole, this anthology is fantastic. It really has something for everyone, and because the stories are fairly short, you might be able to try something new. All of the authors crafted fantastic stories with characters I cared about.
This short anthology features four short stories featuring different couples experimenting with or engaging in BDSM. Seeing as there are only four stories, I decided to review each one on its own to give credit where credit is due.
In “Master Key,” Anah Crow and Dianne Fox have crafted a story about an interracial couple beginning to test the waters of BDSM. Marquis has had the desire to experiment before, but he’s never mentioned this to Navin. Navin, meanwhile, is growing frustrated because it seems that he is constantly being pushed aside in favor of work. And it’s true, because Marquis forgets a lot. I mean, his memory is worse than mine. Marquis thinks he finds a solution involving his secret desires, but as always, things don’t go as planned.
I enjoyed the dynamics between Marquis and Navin. They both come from different backgrounds, but they’re comfortable—for the most part—in who they are. More interesting is how they balance power. In his day job Marquis is important and responsible for a lot. He has a lot of power it seems, and he’s always working. He pretty much takes workaholic to another level. He’s just that dedicated. But he craves more, wanting to experience things as a submissive. Navin, on the other hand, has very little power in his family business. He’s pretty much described as his mother’s purse at the start of the story, and I felt for him. His older brother screws up a lot, and makes life difficult for Navin. But while he seems to be a pushover, once Marquis gives him the power, a Dominant side comes out that both men love.
This switch was great. It gave both characters depth, and I cheered for them the entire time. They have their bumps in the road, but what relationship doesn’t?
The second story is “House Rules” by Cari Z, which features two Hollywood stars: one an actor, the other a screenwriter. Shorter by far than the first story, this focuses on Jon at home the night of the Oscars, watching his partner, Alistair, on the red carpet. The description in the blurb makes it sound pretty lighthearted, but it has a lot of depth for such a short story. Jon not only has difficulty being in the spotlight, but a crazy lifestyle when he was younger has left him with HIV. Alistair helps ground him by setting rules for him to go by whenever he’s away from home, filming or doing publicity. After he’s been away for too long, Jon starts to neglect the rules and his health starts to suffer as a result. When Alistair comes home, he has to deal with Jon’s jealousy and the after effects.
This really tugged at my heart. Alistair is a strong, calm Dom who clearly cares for his partner and wants what is best for him. And Jon might be whiny at times, but he grows over the course of the story when he realizes Alistair really does want the best. Even though it did have its serious moments, I laughed hard when Jon received his first smack and he yelled “Jesus Christ!” and Alistair’s simple response was, “The Lord isn’t considered a unit of measurement, Jonathan. Try again.” Brilliant. I think for the next few days every time I utter that phrase, I’ll be thinking of that line.
Next up is “The Harder They Fall,” co-written by Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau. This one may not be for everyone. To be honest, throughout I was torn between loving it and being so bothered by it that I didn’t want to love it. But I guess that’s good writing, right?
This one follows Tad, a rich, spoiled brat, as he returns to a brothel in order to get some release. He’s gone before, and in his last visit he got Conor, the newest guy there, and treated him terribly. Seems he has a thing for being in control and abusing people. This time he decides he wants the oldest man there so he can further exert his power and abuse. What he gets might be the oldest man there, but he’s in for a surprise. Instead of being in control, this man, who insists Tad call him Daddy, is in complete control, and Tad is torn between going with it, and leaving. He fights at first, but then he decides to see what happens. He struggles the entire time they’re together and doesn’t just fall for the man, but the ending had a pleasant twist that I didn’t see coming.
Tad is pretty much the stereotypical spoiled rich boy. He hasn’t a care in the world, knows his absent parents will bail him out and do whatever he wants just to save face, and so he lacks all control even though he thinks he has it all. Daddy is pretty straightforward for the most part. He’s a Dom, he treats Tad like a little boy (and girl, sometimes, which disturbed me a bit), and expects his commands followed. The push and pull of their meeting was what kept me reading, because I wanted to know what followed. Even though Tad was a complete jerk to Conor, I did feel for him. Sure he has money, but as he points out later in the story, once everyone—friends included—have their money, they leave because that’s all they expect from him. So, though he’s terrible and has no empathy whatsoever, he was still a mildly sympathetic character. I would actually like to read a full story between them to watch Tad’s progress.
Finally, last but not least, “CTRL Me” by Anna Zabo. Tom and Gabe work together coding and share a cubicle. After a breakup with his girlfriend, bisexual Tom is asked out for a drink by Gabe, who he’s had a crush on since he moved to Pennsylvania. In Gabe’s car, he finds rope. Of course, Tom is a sub, and this immediately turns him on, but Gabe isn’t gay. And this isn’t a date. Or is it? Turns out it is, and not only is Gabe also bisexual, but he’s a Dom, and he’s wanted Tom for just as long.
Gabe and Tom click really well together. Their time out—and in—just felt natural, and I didn’t really think I was reading a first date between them. There was a lot of chemistry between them. Gabe has a thing for shibari—rope work—and Tom is eager to participate. He loves being tied up. The two just complement each other really well. Both are strong in their roles, and both enjoy and dislike the same things when it comes to BDSM. I would have loved if the story continued on to the party on Saturday where Gabe is going to demonstrate rope work on Tom. Heck, I’d like to read beyond that to see how they deal with dating at work, pushing each other to the next level, and so on.
As a whole, this anthology is fantastic. It really has something for everyone, and because the stories are fairly short, you might be able to try something new. All of the authors crafted fantastic stories with characters I cared about.
Want to read
June 10, 2017House Rules - Cari Z.
The Harder They Fall - Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo
March 8, 2015
Rules To Live By is an anthology which contains four stories with a gay BDSM theme. I enjoyed all of the stories, although as is usually the case in anthologies, I enjoyed some more than others. For me the stories ranged from 3 stars to 5 stars, so overall I've given this book four out of five stars.
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox
3/5 stars
Main kink - chastity
Master Key was my least favourite of the four stories, but it was still an okay read. Marquis and Navin have been dating for a year, but their relationship is on the rocks. Workaholic Marquis is constantly late and gets so involved in his work it seems to Navin that he forgets that he exists. As a last ditch attempt to save the relationship, Marquis gives Navin the key to a cage he will wear in a very intimate place. To him this symbolises his commitment and will hopefully remind him to leave work on time and to let Navin know if he will be late. Unfortunately neither Marquis or Navin are great communicators and things start to fall apart again.
I'm not sure why, but I struggled to connect with the main characters. Their relationship didn't seem very strong - after being together a year love still hadn't been mentioned. I tend to like alpha male characters in the dominant role and Navin just didn't seem very Dom-ly to me. This story just wasn't for me unfortunately.
House Rules by Cari Z
4/5 stars
Main kink - domestic discipline
I really enjoyed this domestic discipline short story. Jonathan has serious health problems and needs the discipline his partner Alistair gives him to ensure that he takes care of himself. Actor Alistair is at the Oscars with reclusive Jonathan home alone. When he doesn't follow the rules he earns a punishment, followed by a reward.
This was a great story with fantastic characters. The storyline of Alistair using domestic discipline to help Jonathan was interesting and believable. Really well written, I just wish it was a bit longer.
The Harder They Fall by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry
4/5 stars
Main kink - Daddy Dom/boy
The Harder They Fall will probably divide opinion - I loved it, but the 'Daddy' kink may be too extreme for others. This story is well written and seriously hot!
Tad is an obnoxious, often cruel brat who likes to visit a high class brothel to humiliate the young prostitues. This time he decided he wants to humiliate the oldest prostitute, a decision he may regret. 'Daddy' knows how to show the spoilt rich boy the error of his ways, and gives him the discipline he has never received. As well as physical discipline a'Daddy' also uses humiliation to show Tad how his victims felt. Tad is not bad at heart - he's just been spoilt, never shown love or care, and he acts up to get attention. The is a sexy tale of a naughty boy submitting to his 'Daddy' and learning to be a good boy. I would love to see more of this couple and find out what happened next.
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo
5/5 stars
Main kink - bondage
CTRL Me is a fantastic friends to lovers tale that is my favourite story from this collection. Tom and Gabe are bi-sexual work colleagues who have become good friends. After splitting up with his girlfriend, Tom is persuaded to go out for drinks with Gabe. The chemistry between these two is red hot and the sparks begin to fly.
Both characters are really likable, and the connection between them is strong. I loved the pair discovering that they had mutual kinks, and the resulting scenes were fantastic. Gabe was a caring, sweet Dom - I soon fell in love with him - and Tom is just adorable.
This is a great story that definitely deserves five stars. I'd love to read more about Tom and Gabe, please can we have a sequel Ms Zabo?!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox
3/5 stars
Main kink - chastity
Master Key was my least favourite of the four stories, but it was still an okay read. Marquis and Navin have been dating for a year, but their relationship is on the rocks. Workaholic Marquis is constantly late and gets so involved in his work it seems to Navin that he forgets that he exists. As a last ditch attempt to save the relationship, Marquis gives Navin the key to a cage he will wear in a very intimate place. To him this symbolises his commitment and will hopefully remind him to leave work on time and to let Navin know if he will be late. Unfortunately neither Marquis or Navin are great communicators and things start to fall apart again.
I'm not sure why, but I struggled to connect with the main characters. Their relationship didn't seem very strong - after being together a year love still hadn't been mentioned. I tend to like alpha male characters in the dominant role and Navin just didn't seem very Dom-ly to me. This story just wasn't for me unfortunately.
House Rules by Cari Z
4/5 stars
Main kink - domestic discipline
I really enjoyed this domestic discipline short story. Jonathan has serious health problems and needs the discipline his partner Alistair gives him to ensure that he takes care of himself. Actor Alistair is at the Oscars with reclusive Jonathan home alone. When he doesn't follow the rules he earns a punishment, followed by a reward.
This was a great story with fantastic characters. The storyline of Alistair using domestic discipline to help Jonathan was interesting and believable. Really well written, I just wish it was a bit longer.
The Harder They Fall by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry
4/5 stars
Main kink - Daddy Dom/boy
The Harder They Fall will probably divide opinion - I loved it, but the 'Daddy' kink may be too extreme for others. This story is well written and seriously hot!
Tad is an obnoxious, often cruel brat who likes to visit a high class brothel to humiliate the young prostitues. This time he decided he wants to humiliate the oldest prostitute, a decision he may regret. 'Daddy' knows how to show the spoilt rich boy the error of his ways, and gives him the discipline he has never received. As well as physical discipline a'Daddy' also uses humiliation to show Tad how his victims felt. Tad is not bad at heart - he's just been spoilt, never shown love or care, and he acts up to get attention. The is a sexy tale of a naughty boy submitting to his 'Daddy' and learning to be a good boy. I would love to see more of this couple and find out what happened next.
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo
5/5 stars
Main kink - bondage
CTRL Me is a fantastic friends to lovers tale that is my favourite story from this collection. Tom and Gabe are bi-sexual work colleagues who have become good friends. After splitting up with his girlfriend, Tom is persuaded to go out for drinks with Gabe. The chemistry between these two is red hot and the sparks begin to fly.
Both characters are really likable, and the connection between them is strong. I loved the pair discovering that they had mutual kinks, and the resulting scenes were fantastic. Gabe was a caring, sweet Dom - I soon fell in love with him - and Tom is just adorable.
This is a great story that definitely deserves five stars. I'd love to read more about Tom and Gabe, please can we have a sequel Ms Zabo?!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 14, 2015
Original review on Molly Lolly
This anthology is pretty much a group of stories with most of my favorite kinks all together. Many of these authors I enjoy their works already, and the others are new to me and now I have to go out and stalk, er, follow, them to find out what other wonderful stories they have out there. Not a single bad story in this anthology.
Overall Stars:
Four and a half
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox
This story was so interesting. I loved that Marquis and Navin were trying to make their relationship work and figured out how to make it work. However, not as well as they thought since they didn’t talk to each other as much as they needed to. However I totally get their fear of rejection. It’s scary to trust someone with those kinds of secrets. These two were very adorable together, plus super hot when they had the rules. Into some super kinky things together. I have a feeling they’ll have a wonderful relationship together now that they’ve both talked everything out and figured out what they both need and want out of the relationship.
Stars:
Four
House Rules by Cari Z
Jon and Alistair are fabulous together. They’ve been together a while, but recent events have kept them apart. They still have rules they follow even when they’re not together. But poor Jon. He needs Alistair’s presence more to help keep his faith in their relationship alive. Alistair was gentle with Jon but didn’t put up with any of his crap. I really enjoyed seeing how Alistair put Jon back to rights, and how much he cared about Jon. Having a relationship takes work, and seeing how the overcame this bump in the road was so wonderful. I did agree with Jon’s assessment of Edward though. We’ll just have to wait for the sequel to see how that plays out. There will be a sequel, right? At least I hope there will!
Stars:
Four and a half
The Harder The Fall by Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau
Gotta say the sex and scene Tad had with “Daddy” was all kinds of kinky, dirty fun. Tad was a complete douche, but Daddy helped him see how he should behave. Plus he showed Tad what he needed wasn’t exactly what he thought. I truly enjoyed the characters and their chemistry together. I didn’t want them to have to part ways. I was curious how it was going to be brought together at the end. Total shock of how I expected it to go! So happy with how it ended. But now I want more from these guys, and where they work. Sequel? Please?
Stars:
Four and a half
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo
Such a beautiful story. Tom needed Gabe’s friendship to be able to let go and trust otherwise, they wouldn’t have worked when Tom first moved to Pittsburgh. How Gabe showed his hand hough was so fun and the perfect way to gauge Tom’s interest. I was hurt with Gabe when Tom explained his past and why he had trouble trusting and letting go. They have a good solid start to the relationship by the end of the story. The characters are so well developed, I’d love to see more of them and how they do long term.
Stars:
Four and a half
This anthology is pretty much a group of stories with most of my favorite kinks all together. Many of these authors I enjoy their works already, and the others are new to me and now I have to go out and stalk, er, follow, them to find out what other wonderful stories they have out there. Not a single bad story in this anthology.
Overall Stars:
Four and a half
Master Key by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox
This story was so interesting. I loved that Marquis and Navin were trying to make their relationship work and figured out how to make it work. However, not as well as they thought since they didn’t talk to each other as much as they needed to. However I totally get their fear of rejection. It’s scary to trust someone with those kinds of secrets. These two were very adorable together, plus super hot when they had the rules. Into some super kinky things together. I have a feeling they’ll have a wonderful relationship together now that they’ve both talked everything out and figured out what they both need and want out of the relationship.
Stars:
Four
House Rules by Cari Z
Jon and Alistair are fabulous together. They’ve been together a while, but recent events have kept them apart. They still have rules they follow even when they’re not together. But poor Jon. He needs Alistair’s presence more to help keep his faith in their relationship alive. Alistair was gentle with Jon but didn’t put up with any of his crap. I really enjoyed seeing how Alistair put Jon back to rights, and how much he cared about Jon. Having a relationship takes work, and seeing how the overcame this bump in the road was so wonderful. I did agree with Jon’s assessment of Edward though. We’ll just have to wait for the sequel to see how that plays out. There will be a sequel, right? At least I hope there will!
Stars:
Four and a half
The Harder The Fall by Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau
Gotta say the sex and scene Tad had with “Daddy” was all kinds of kinky, dirty fun. Tad was a complete douche, but Daddy helped him see how he should behave. Plus he showed Tad what he needed wasn’t exactly what he thought. I truly enjoyed the characters and their chemistry together. I didn’t want them to have to part ways. I was curious how it was going to be brought together at the end. Total shock of how I expected it to go! So happy with how it ended. But now I want more from these guys, and where they work. Sequel? Please?
Stars:
Four and a half
CTRL Me by Anna Zabo
Such a beautiful story. Tom needed Gabe’s friendship to be able to let go and trust otherwise, they wouldn’t have worked when Tom first moved to Pittsburgh. How Gabe showed his hand hough was so fun and the perfect way to gauge Tom’s interest. I was hurt with Gabe when Tom explained his past and why he had trouble trusting and letting go. They have a good solid start to the relationship by the end of the story. The characters are so well developed, I’d love to see more of them and how they do long term.
Stars:
Four and a half
February 26, 2015
In my humble opinion, this is a must read for fans of kinky m/m romance. *fanning self* It covers different kinks in each story with a different couple. I loved all of the stories, even the ones that made me a bit uncomfortable. They were all well written and, for the shorter novella, very complete. These authors did a very good job of pulling together a nice collection of bed time stories.
MASTER KEY by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox – new to me authors, one of the wonderful things about anthologies like this. This story was mostly about part time power exchange with a few toys. This is also the longest story in the collection.
One of the featured couple is of Indian (like from India) descent. He with his two brothers and mother run, what I think is, some kind of software company. I mention this because one of the things that made me uncomfortable was found in this story and it wasn’t the kink between the couple. It was the fact that the adult males called their mother “mummy.” Maybe a culture thing, I don’t know, but it kind of creeped me out considering that we were in a corporate setting.
As for the romance, I thought that was well done. Both Navin and Marquis did some growing up, learning about themselves as well as each other, and how to communicate. It was a very nice progression, with one point leaving me wonder if they would really find their happy ever after. Thankfully, they did.
HOUSE RULES by Cari Z – Also a new to me author. Featured kink was 24/7 power exchange with punishment.
This was a rather intense look at one couple’s solution to addiction, as well as metal and physical illness. It was quite well done, bringing me into the mindset of the bratty sub. I don’t know that I would have been near as agreeable as Jonathan was to a list of rules. But, it worked quite well for this couple.
THE HARDER THEY FALL by Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau – Authors I have read before and the reason I wanted to read this. What surprised me was the kink they presented hit my “uncomfortable” meter. Daddy play hits a soft limit for me, but the power exchange and disciple was hot. An interesting dichotomy.
I did enjoy how “Daddy” took Tad from the spoiled little rich boy to well behaved young man. Well done!
CTRL ME by Anna Zabo – another new to me author, but I think this one was my favorite story. The kink in this one was rope play. HOT!
Tom, who is bi, has just broken up with his girlfriend when his co-worker, Gabe, (“No, I prefer Gabe. Gabriel has too many syllables.”) asks Tom out for after work drinks to commiserate. OMG! The sparks started flying from the minute they got into the car. Needed a shower after I finished this one.
I read this book in one go. I found it that gripping and entertaining. However, it would make a very nice collection of bed time stories, with one story being read each night. These stories would definitely leave you having happy dreams. *sigh* Either way, this is a keeper.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
MASTER KEY by Anah Crow and Dianne Fox – new to me authors, one of the wonderful things about anthologies like this. This story was mostly about part time power exchange with a few toys. This is also the longest story in the collection.
One of the featured couple is of Indian (like from India) descent. He with his two brothers and mother run, what I think is, some kind of software company. I mention this because one of the things that made me uncomfortable was found in this story and it wasn’t the kink between the couple. It was the fact that the adult males called their mother “mummy.” Maybe a culture thing, I don’t know, but it kind of creeped me out considering that we were in a corporate setting.
As for the romance, I thought that was well done. Both Navin and Marquis did some growing up, learning about themselves as well as each other, and how to communicate. It was a very nice progression, with one point leaving me wonder if they would really find their happy ever after. Thankfully, they did.
HOUSE RULES by Cari Z – Also a new to me author. Featured kink was 24/7 power exchange with punishment.
This was a rather intense look at one couple’s solution to addiction, as well as metal and physical illness. It was quite well done, bringing me into the mindset of the bratty sub. I don’t know that I would have been near as agreeable as Jonathan was to a list of rules. But, it worked quite well for this couple.
THE HARDER THEY FALL by Lisa Henry and Heidi Belleau – Authors I have read before and the reason I wanted to read this. What surprised me was the kink they presented hit my “uncomfortable” meter. Daddy play hits a soft limit for me, but the power exchange and disciple was hot. An interesting dichotomy.
I did enjoy how “Daddy” took Tad from the spoiled little rich boy to well behaved young man. Well done!
CTRL ME by Anna Zabo – another new to me author, but I think this one was my favorite story. The kink in this one was rope play. HOT!
Tom, who is bi, has just broken up with his girlfriend when his co-worker, Gabe, (“No, I prefer Gabe. Gabriel has too many syllables.”) asks Tom out for after work drinks to commiserate. OMG! The sparks started flying from the minute they got into the car. Needed a shower after I finished this one.
I read this book in one go. I found it that gripping and entertaining. However, it would make a very nice collection of bed time stories, with one story being read each night. These stories would definitely leave you having happy dreams. *sigh* Either way, this is a keeper.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2015
Cari Z - House Rules: 3*
I guess this one kind of falls into the category of domestic discipline which is way too rare (authors, please - need more!).
What I didn't like about this story, though, was the first part. Jon was alone at home so there wasn't much interaction between him and his partner Alistair. Of course, this gave Jon plenty of opportunity and time to break the rules leading up to a very nice punishment in the second half .
Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry - The Harder They Fall: 4*
Daddy kink with a dose of humiliation. Not too crazy about humiliation in BDSM myself but it fit here. And the brat deserved it!
Anah Crow and Dianne Fox - Master Key: 3*
Nothing wrong with this story as such. It's just that these authors have written a couple of my absolute favorites so my expectations were extremely high and weren't quite met.
Anna Zabo - CTRL Me: 4*
Tom and Gabe work together and have become good friends. Tom has wanted more for some time but is not quite sure Gabe is into guys.
Things change between them after a night out and things progress quickly from there.
This is my favorite story in this collection. I liked how their caring for each other shone through in every step as they took their relationship further. And some rope bondage has never hurt a story.
I guess this one kind of falls into the category of domestic discipline which is way too rare (authors, please - need more!).
What I didn't like about this story, though, was the first part. Jon was alone at home so there wasn't much interaction between him and his partner Alistair. Of course, this gave Jon plenty of opportunity and time to break the rules leading up to a very nice punishment in the second half .
Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry - The Harder They Fall: 4*
Daddy kink with a dose of humiliation. Not too crazy about humiliation in BDSM myself but it fit here. And the brat deserved it!
Anah Crow and Dianne Fox - Master Key: 3*
Nothing wrong with this story as such. It's just that these authors have written a couple of my absolute favorites so my expectations were extremely high and weren't quite met.
Anna Zabo - CTRL Me: 4*
Tom and Gabe work together and have become good friends. Tom has wanted more for some time but is not quite sure Gabe is into guys.
Things change between them after a night out and things progress quickly from there.
This is my favorite story in this collection. I liked how their caring for each other shone through in every step as they took their relationship further. And some rope bondage has never hurt a story.
March 3, 2016
Overall, I enjoyed this anthology. Individual ratings follow.
"Master Key" by Anah Crow & Dianne Fox - 2 ("it was okay") stars
This one just didn't grab me. I felt like the characters would've been better off breaking up and finding love elsewhere.
"House Rules" by Cari Z.- 3 ("liked it") stars
I enjoyed this one and I wanted to read more about the characters. I feel like we got a slice of their life and I wanted to know more. For example,
"The Harder They Fall" by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry - 2 ("it was okay") stars
I'm not going to lie. The "Daddy" thing made me uncomfortable. The kink totally made sense the way the authors explained what motivated it, but it just squicked me out. Totally a personal preference thing and not a judgement on anyone, btw. To each his or her own!
"CTRL Me" by Anna Zabo - 3 ("liked it") stars
I really liked the MCs in this story and was rooting for them to find their HEA. I would've loved to be a fly on the wall during the demonstration they mention. As with "House Rules," I wanted more!
"Master Key" by Anah Crow & Dianne Fox - 2 ("it was okay") stars
This one just didn't grab me. I felt like the characters would've been better off breaking up and finding love elsewhere.
"House Rules" by Cari Z.- 3 ("liked it") stars
I enjoyed this one and I wanted to read more about the characters. I feel like we got a slice of their life and I wanted to know more. For example,
"The Harder They Fall" by Heidi Belleau and Lisa Henry - 2 ("it was okay") stars
I'm not going to lie. The "Daddy" thing made me uncomfortable. The kink totally made sense the way the authors explained what motivated it, but it just squicked me out. Totally a personal preference thing and not a judgement on anyone, btw. To each his or her own!
"CTRL Me" by Anna Zabo - 3 ("liked it") stars
I really liked the MCs in this story and was rooting for them to find their HEA. I would've loved to be a fly on the wall during the demonstration they mention. As with "House Rules," I wanted more!
July 12, 2015
Master Key: Skipped based on Goodreads reviews
House Rules: 3.5 stars. A good example of domestic kink for me. Not really my thing, but done well and written in a way that I cared about the MCs throughout the story. Short, sweet, and unconventional.
The Harder They Fall: 5 stars. Drool. Loved it. And usually Daddy kink is really hard for me. Gives me the serious willies. But it was so hot and so well handled that I was desperately wishing it was a full length novel. The MC Tad was just enough of a douche bag that I wanted him humiliated but redeemable enough that I wanted him to have a HFN. Beautiful. This is one of those stories that gives me a secret rush to read in public places because it's so filthy.
CTRL Me: 3 stars. This book had the unfortunate circumstances of following up The Harder They Fall. I think if this book came earlier in the anthology I would have embraced it more. I love rope bondage. And the sex was well written. But it did get "I love you" way too quickly for me. I didn't believe that the MCs could have that fast of a connection in such little time.
House Rules: 3.5 stars. A good example of domestic kink for me. Not really my thing, but done well and written in a way that I cared about the MCs throughout the story. Short, sweet, and unconventional.
The Harder They Fall: 5 stars. Drool. Loved it. And usually Daddy kink is really hard for me. Gives me the serious willies. But it was so hot and so well handled that I was desperately wishing it was a full length novel. The MC Tad was just enough of a douche bag that I wanted him humiliated but redeemable enough that I wanted him to have a HFN. Beautiful. This is one of those stories that gives me a secret rush to read in public places because it's so filthy.
CTRL Me: 3 stars. This book had the unfortunate circumstances of following up The Harder They Fall. I think if this book came earlier in the anthology I would have embraced it more. I love rope bondage. And the sex was well written. But it did get "I love you" way too quickly for me. I didn't believe that the MCs could have that fast of a connection in such little time.
August 23, 2016
3.5
Overall a nice mix of kink, romance and the necessity of rules. Different to other anthologies there is no bad story here although Master Key about a Dom in the making who's easily taken advantage of by his family didn't do much for me.
House Rules I'm still undecided about. Feels more like a really large prompt than a short story. I really liked the premises for an established Hollywood couple but the end felt short and unfulfilled.
The Harder They Fall with its explicit Daddy kink was something else and I enjoyed it even while with its stereotypical characters it was more a one-handed story than a romance.
But the best of this collection is CTRL Me by Anna Zabo. There is kink, there is romance and there are characters in a way I would like to see more and I never read such sexy bondage scenes.
Overall a nice mix of kink, romance and the necessity of rules. Different to other anthologies there is no bad story here although Master Key about a Dom in the making who's easily taken advantage of by his family didn't do much for me.
House Rules I'm still undecided about. Feels more like a really large prompt than a short story. I really liked the premises for an established Hollywood couple but the end felt short and unfulfilled.
The Harder They Fall with its explicit Daddy kink was something else and I enjoyed it even while with its stereotypical characters it was more a one-handed story than a romance.
But the best of this collection is CTRL Me by Anna Zabo. There is kink, there is romance and there are characters in a way I would like to see more and I never read such sexy bondage scenes.
February 21, 2015
Usually anthologies have some stories better than others, and some short stories that are not adequately developed. I liked the fact that this book had just 4 stories, allowing for each to have substance and an arc. Each story explored a different aspect of domination and submission, and all were an interesting exploration of the dynamic's role in, mainly, the submissive's character and psyche. From new realizations about wanting to have this dynamic in his life to well established relationships in the dynamic, the characters found happiness in this lifestyle in interesting and sensual stories.
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