What do you think?
Rate this book
Totally Five Star
Life Under New Management
Working for a perfectionist like strict, sexy-as-hell Ethan isn’t easy. Falling in love with him? No problem at all.
Taking a bar job in an exclusive hotel is a stopgap for Andy. He’s an actor and his big break is coming soon—he knows it. His hot new boss Ethan is strict, demanding and totally off-limits but Andy can’t stop thinking about him.
When Andy learns of Ethan’s need to be in control of his partner—in bed and out of it—he’s stunned by the intensity of his reaction. He wants Ethan guiding him, bringing order to his chaotic life. And he sees that Ethan needs him too, though they can’t be open about their feelings.
Ethan deals out deliciously perverse consequences for misbehaving, but when it comes to incentives, he knows just what to offer to have Andy on his knees begging for more.
But some secrets can’t stay that way for long. And when difficult choices arise, for once Andy can’t turn to Ethan for guidance. This time, he’s on his own.
Taking a bar job in an exclusive hotel is a stopgap for Andy. He’s an actor and his big break is coming soon—he knows it. His hot new boss Ethan is strict, demanding and totally off-limits but Andy can’t stop thinking about him.
When Andy learns of Ethan’s need to be in control of his partner—in bed and out of it—he’s stunned by the intensity of his reaction. He wants Ethan guiding him, bringing order to his chaotic life. And he sees that Ethan needs him too, though they can’t be open about their feelings.
Ethan deals out deliciously perverse consequences for misbehaving, but when it comes to incentives, he knows just what to offer to have Andy on his knees begging for more.
But some secrets can’t stay that way for long. And when difficult choices arise, for once Andy can’t turn to Ethan for guidance. This time, he’s on his own.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 6, 2015
10 people are currently reading
400 people want to read
About the author
Jane Davitt
64 books479 followersRetired from pro writing, pretty much. Any books where the rights are with me I've put up at A03, along with all my fic, which I'm still writing.
[Free reads and my fanfic are here:
Jane Davitt at AO3]
Thank you to all who read my books. It meant a lot.
[Free reads and my fanfic are here:
Jane Davitt at AO3]
Thank you to all who read my books. It meant a lot.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
March 9, 2015
This book is a grade A mind fuck.
Andy is lazy, whiny, ungracious, and scattered. He floats through life on his looks and surface charm, and doesn't apply himself to his acting career any better than he does to housekeeping or bartending.
When Andy interviews with the cool, don't-bullshit-me Ethan for a bartender position at the prestigious, upscale hotel where Ethan is a manager he gets a metaphorical kick in the arse.
Ethan, who's at least a few years older than Andy, is all about control and structure. One speck of lint can throw him into a quiet rage. The lemons have to be sliced JUST SO and jeans folded with the seams lined up.
Andy lusts after Ethan, but Ethan pushes him away and gives him the cold shoulder. Ethan doesn't just want a sex partner. He wants a man he can control completely, not a submissive exactly, but someone he can groom and advise, someone who will give himself over with no complaints.
That someone probably shouldn't be Andy, but the two give the relationship a go anyway. They have to keep it secret because Ethan is Andy's boss.
This book is all about the power exchange, Andy giving, Ethan taking. Or maybe it's the other way around?
Andy does not take kindly to being told what to do, but he's a kinky fucker, and as he learns to trust Ethan, he cedes control.
Ethan is so collected at all times, I wanted to shake him. He rarely shows emotion. He takes Andy in for grooming, sets him up on a fitness program, and waxes his arse crack (this is very clinical and not particularly hot).
Ethan wants sex to be CONTAINED and to HURT. He uses weighed clothes pins, gags, and paddles. He pours lemon juice into wounds. Andy loves getting spanked, and Ethan loves to administer pain. He gets off on Andy's suffering and tears. And Andy gets off on it too.
I expected this book to be HAWT, and there is certainly sex aplenty. Many of the scenes are crazy sensual, and both men grow as people.
Since Andy is the third-person narrator, Ethan feels like a distant presence. I really wanted Ethan's POV. At one point the book skips ahead a couple months, which didn't help me believe in the relationship beyond the sex.
What really worked for me is that Ethan and Andy's kinks aren't seeped in darkness. The story isn't heavy and angsty and brooding. It's real life. With spanking and pain.
I really liked Andy's awesome roommate Henry, who added some delicious humor to the book. The writing was strong, and I loved the ending.
Andy is lazy, whiny, ungracious, and scattered. He floats through life on his looks and surface charm, and doesn't apply himself to his acting career any better than he does to housekeeping or bartending.
When Andy interviews with the cool, don't-bullshit-me Ethan for a bartender position at the prestigious, upscale hotel where Ethan is a manager he gets a metaphorical kick in the arse.
Ethan, who's at least a few years older than Andy, is all about control and structure. One speck of lint can throw him into a quiet rage. The lemons have to be sliced JUST SO and jeans folded with the seams lined up.
Andy lusts after Ethan, but Ethan pushes him away and gives him the cold shoulder. Ethan doesn't just want a sex partner. He wants a man he can control completely, not a submissive exactly, but someone he can groom and advise, someone who will give himself over with no complaints.
That someone probably shouldn't be Andy, but the two give the relationship a go anyway. They have to keep it secret because Ethan is Andy's boss.
This book is all about the power exchange, Andy giving, Ethan taking. Or maybe it's the other way around?
Andy does not take kindly to being told what to do, but he's a kinky fucker, and as he learns to trust Ethan, he cedes control.
Ethan is so collected at all times, I wanted to shake him. He rarely shows emotion. He takes Andy in for grooming, sets him up on a fitness program, and waxes his arse crack (this is very clinical and not particularly hot).
Ethan wants sex to be CONTAINED and to HURT. He uses weighed clothes pins, gags, and paddles. He pours lemon juice into wounds. Andy loves getting spanked, and Ethan loves to administer pain. He gets off on Andy's suffering and tears. And Andy gets off on it too.
"Pain slut," Ethan said . . . "I love seeing you cry . . . the way you beg is addictive."
I expected this book to be HAWT, and there is certainly sex aplenty. Many of the scenes are crazy sensual, and both men grow as people.
Since Andy is the third-person narrator, Ethan feels like a distant presence. I really wanted Ethan's POV. At one point the book skips ahead a couple months, which didn't help me believe in the relationship beyond the sex.
What really worked for me is that Ethan and Andy's kinks aren't seeped in darkness. The story isn't heavy and angsty and brooding. It's real life. With spanking and pain.
I really liked Andy's awesome roommate Henry, who added some delicious humor to the book. The writing was strong, and I loved the ending.
Weak with lust and love, Andy caught the bottle. "God, I love you so fucking much when you're like this"
"I'm always like this," Ethan said.
"Starting to see that," Andy muttered.
March 24, 2015
I’ve been Davittized!
I ain't even ashamed either.
Did I like this book?
No.
I LOVED IT!
Why?
The complexity. Both these characters are complex. Their relationship is complex. The writing is complex. The way Davitt deftly develops their relationship and stirred in the eroticism to keep it interesting was complex. The whole thing was like a breath of fresh air.
It took me several days to get through Life Under New Management due to RL stuff and every time I picked it back up I was excited to see where Andrew and Ethan would go. In fact, I liked it more and more each time I picked it up and I don’t even like brats! At all. Quite the coup to get me to love a book with a bratty MC.
Andrew is a bratty brat brat that's bratty, but he’s also floundering, without direction or purpose. My time was divided equally between wanting to strangle, gag and hug him. It was a wise choice to tell the story entirely through him otherwise I might have gagged my kindle every time he opened his mouth. He’s an aspiring actor minus the life or organizational skills to accomplish his goal of fame and fortune. He goes from bed to bed, club to club never satisfied and not even truly realizing how unsatisfied he is. Between acting jobs, he applies for a job as a bartender at a swank hotel and is gobsmacked by Ethan, his future boss. His attraction is instant but Ethan is like ice and shuts down Andrew repeatedly. In the dictionary under the word 'control', way at the bottom in the fine italicized print is a note that reads, *see Ethan.
Ethan takes pity on Andrew when he finds him sitting on a bench one night unable to go home after walking in on his roommate in flagrante delicto. Andrew isn't giving up without a fight and he keeps coming back again and again because it's clear at least part of Ethan is interested in him. I'm not sure an ordinary ego could've withstood the pummeling his took. I have to hand it to the guy, he was determined. Begging may have been involved. You know how I feel about begging. Ethan, apparently, shares my Achilles' heel. Their relationship progression rang true for me not simply because its trajectory was filled with miscues, but their origins.
Not only do they have to traverse being employee/employer but they’re trying to navigate a new relationship AND their kinks don’t precisely match up. So, they have to accommodate, adapt and adjust; a daunting prospect for anyone and I enjoyed every stumble and reconciliation along the way. Andrew's emotional growth is subtle yet tangible, though he will probably always struggle with word vomiting. Then again, he does so enjoy those consequences of Ethan's. Mostly.
Speaking of consequences and reconciliations…
These two are on fire!! F.I.R.E. That Wartenberg/lemon scene… I swear my kindle started to smoke a little or maybe that was me. The non-bondage bondage was hot as fuck. The discipline was ultra satisfying and you know how much I like
Inventive sadists are a delight to read about, aren't they?
I have nothing else to say except if you don’t read this, you’re missing out.
Don’t be that person.
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I ain't even ashamed either.
Did I like this book?
No.
I LOVED IT!
Why?
The complexity. Both these characters are complex. Their relationship is complex. The writing is complex. The way Davitt deftly develops their relationship and stirred in the eroticism to keep it interesting was complex. The whole thing was like a breath of fresh air.
It took me several days to get through Life Under New Management due to RL stuff and every time I picked it back up I was excited to see where Andrew and Ethan would go. In fact, I liked it more and more each time I picked it up and I don’t even like brats! At all. Quite the coup to get me to love a book with a bratty MC.
Andrew is a bratty brat brat that's bratty, but he’s also floundering, without direction or purpose. My time was divided equally between wanting to strangle, gag and hug him. It was a wise choice to tell the story entirely through him otherwise I might have gagged my kindle every time he opened his mouth. He’s an aspiring actor minus the life or organizational skills to accomplish his goal of fame and fortune. He goes from bed to bed, club to club never satisfied and not even truly realizing how unsatisfied he is. Between acting jobs, he applies for a job as a bartender at a swank hotel and is gobsmacked by Ethan, his future boss. His attraction is instant but Ethan is like ice and shuts down Andrew repeatedly. In the dictionary under the word 'control', way at the bottom in the fine italicized print is a note that reads, *see Ethan.
Hot. So fucking hot. Power and authority and sternness in one package and he didn't need to fantasize about Ethan now that he'd experienced the reality.
Punish me. Show me the consequences. All of them. Right here. Ignore Joel. Send me to my knees. Make me serve you. Make me beg.
Ethan takes pity on Andrew when he finds him sitting on a bench one night unable to go home after walking in on his roommate in flagrante delicto. Andrew isn't giving up without a fight and he keeps coming back again and again because it's clear at least part of Ethan is interested in him. I'm not sure an ordinary ego could've withstood the pummeling his took. I have to hand it to the guy, he was determined. Begging may have been involved. You know how I feel about begging. Ethan, apparently, shares my Achilles' heel. Their relationship progression rang true for me not simply because its trajectory was filled with miscues, but their origins.
"Knowing why you're not talking will drive me crazy and I want to feel that way. I want to hurt from it, ache with it and know when I get you home, I can make it stop for both of us."
You sadistic, beautiful fucker.
Not only do they have to traverse being employee/employer but they’re trying to navigate a new relationship AND their kinks don’t precisely match up. So, they have to accommodate, adapt and adjust; a daunting prospect for anyone and I enjoyed every stumble and reconciliation along the way. Andrew's emotional growth is subtle yet tangible, though he will probably always struggle with word vomiting. Then again, he does so enjoy those consequences of Ethan's. Mostly.
Speaking of consequences and reconciliations…
These two are on fire!! F.I.R.E. That Wartenberg/lemon scene… I swear my kindle started to smoke a little or maybe that was me. The non-bondage bondage was hot as fuck. The discipline was ultra satisfying and you know how much I like
"Move for me." Ethan slapped Andy's thigh, urging him to respond. "No, come for me. You wanted pain? You've got it. Use it. Fuck my cock. Show me you want it."
Inventive sadists are a delight to read about, aren't they?
I have nothing else to say except if you don’t read this, you’re missing out.
Don’t be that person.
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2015
When Life Under New Management came out on the Coming Soon page at Totallybound.com I was beyond excited. Jane Davitt is the author for 4 5 star reads for me. Bound and Determined, Room at the Top, The Square Peg and Accidentally In Love. I started this one right after midnight on release day, a true testament at how excited I was. And I was not disappointed!
Life Under New Management is the story of MC Ethan, anal retentive, perfectionist restaurant manager at an elite hotel in Vancouver and MC Andy, smartass, wanna-be actor and the newest bar keep and all around gopher at Ethan's restaurant. Ethan is Andy's boss and Andy finds that Ethan's detail orientated, demanding instructions push all of his sexual buttons. He is unfamiliar with this new kink of his and when the right opportunity presents itself, he finds that Ethan is equally attracted to him.
The two men begin a D/s type relationship where Ethan basically takes over Andy's life. It is all presented in Andy's best interest, including a healthier diet and exercise program, better grooming habits, improved work skills and, of course, seriously kinky sex that blows Andy's mind. The sexual kink is pretty specific, with Ethan wanting 100% control over Andy in bed, delivering pain as the primary method for release. Andy is definitely a pain slut and Ethan gets off on Andy's tears and cries for mercy. It's seriously fucked up, but works for them and fortunately they both embrace their roles without shame. It's hot as hell, let me tell you!
It took about half way through the book before Ethan and Andy finally settled on terms for their relationship and began to get physical. I found that to be extremely frustrating, but I have a suspicion the author did that on purpose because by the time Andy finally got some sexual relief after months and months of frustration, the experience was downright orgasmic and overwhelming. I found I knew exactly how Andy felt.
I did love the book, but it wasn't perfect. The story skipped ahead and failed to show us a lot of Ethan and Andy's bonding experiences. The "L" word really took me by surprise and came out of nowhere for both men. I believed it 100%, but wish I'd have seen it happen.
If you are a fan of BDSM (it's worth noting that Ethan and Andy do not consider their relationship to be Dom/sub, but that is really what is looks like) and like the dynamic of a sadomasochistic power exchange, this book was written especially for you. You are going to love it! The added bonus is the intense emotion and romance that had me swooning. Highly recommended!
This review is also posted at Jessewave
August 9, 2016
4.5 stars
Andy wasn’t one to ignore what his dick thought about a situation.
Andy, Andy, Andy...
Sulky little brat. Was he whiny? Yes, but he was also likeable and he had a good heart. A selfish but loveable brat and that's saying a lot because I'm rarely a fan of brats.
Ethan was hot, all that discipline and intense focus, sometimes mixed with wry humor and tenderness...*shivers* He turned that focus on Andy, getting off on controlling him in a variety of activities, from haircuts to pain play.
The two of them together? Hot, hot, hot.
Andy's reaction to Ethan's control...beautiful. Being controlled settled him, and gave him direction.
"...If I’m a jigsaw puzzle, you’re the first guy who’s ever gone to the trouble of sorting out the pieces, doing the border, giving me limits, making sense of the whole picture."
He just needed to trust Ethan and follow his rules. The only problem, although he was desperate to please Ethan, Andy couldn't seem to stop acting out, pushing limits. But Ethan knew what Andy needed ;)
“You need to be tied down, spanked, fucked, used.”
Not that Ethan was perfect, and I loved those moments of raw, honest emotion as they both messed up, and struggled to get it right.
I also loved seeing Andy discover new kinks as Ethan made his desires known.
Horrified, unbearably aroused, he blurted out, “You wouldn’t.”
Ethan leaned over and kissed his ear, whispering, “Why does that sound so much like ‘please’?”
*dies*
At times, the focus went towards more pain than I was comfortable with and I went from nodding to cringing. Andy loved it, though, and I did like the connection it gave them.
After the great buildup, a lot of the relationship building happened off page, but I still enjoyed the results :)
There were so many more quotes I wanted to share in this review, but I thought it was better to let you experience all those wonderful words in the story itself.
Also, I loved Henry and wished there had been more of him.
ETA: I can't get these characters out of my head, I'm bumping this to 4.5 stars
Andy wasn’t one to ignore what his dick thought about a situation.
Andy, Andy, Andy...
Sulky little brat. Was he whiny? Yes, but he was also likeable and he had a good heart. A selfish but loveable brat and that's saying a lot because I'm rarely a fan of brats.
Ethan was hot, all that discipline and intense focus, sometimes mixed with wry humor and tenderness...*shivers* He turned that focus on Andy, getting off on controlling him in a variety of activities, from haircuts to pain play.
The two of them together? Hot, hot, hot.
Andy's reaction to Ethan's control...beautiful. Being controlled settled him, and gave him direction.
"...If I’m a jigsaw puzzle, you’re the first guy who’s ever gone to the trouble of sorting out the pieces, doing the border, giving me limits, making sense of the whole picture."
He just needed to trust Ethan and follow his rules. The only problem, although he was desperate to please Ethan, Andy couldn't seem to stop acting out, pushing limits. But Ethan knew what Andy needed ;)
“You need to be tied down, spanked, fucked, used.”
Not that Ethan was perfect, and I loved those moments of raw, honest emotion as they both messed up, and struggled to get it right.
I also loved seeing Andy discover new kinks as Ethan made his desires known.
Horrified, unbearably aroused, he blurted out, “You wouldn’t.”
Ethan leaned over and kissed his ear, whispering, “Why does that sound so much like ‘please’?”
*dies*
At times, the focus went towards more pain than I was comfortable with and I went from nodding to cringing. Andy loved it, though, and I did like the connection it gave them.
After the great buildup, a lot of the relationship building happened off page, but I still enjoyed the results :)
There were so many more quotes I wanted to share in this review, but I thought it was better to let you experience all those wonderful words in the story itself.
Also, I loved Henry and wished there had been more of him.
ETA: I can't get these characters out of my head, I'm bumping this to 4.5 stars
March 23, 2015
Andy is attempting to become an actor, but really needs a job to keep a roof over his head. He has little other direction and thinks he can rely on his acting skills to get by his interview with Ethan. The interview with the sexy, controlling Ethan throws Andy off, but he is instantly attracted. When Ethan takes pity on a rain-soaked Andy one night, the fun really begins. What starts as a night that will seemingly satisfy Ethan’s desire for control and Andy’s interest in submission turns into a glorious exploration of a pain kink Andy didn’t know he had and an extension of Ethan’s control to the rest of Andy’s life.
The relationship between Ethan and Andy was very complex and quite different from most of the BDSM relationships I’ve seen in books. Ethan doesn’t want a sub, just complete control of the sex, but he does agree to also use his control in other parts of Andy’s life. Andy is all about exploring the limits of his kinks, especially his newfound desire for pain, but when it comes down to it, even though he asked for the other aspects of control, he finds it’s not always as easy to accept that control outside of the bedroom. I will admit to wanting to see some more of their life outside of work and sex to see their bond grow earlier in the relationship (and perhaps an epilogue to round out the ending) but I did get a feeling for their emotional connection as the relationship was tested by outside forces.
I really enjoyed seeing the men work out their kinks, even when they didn’t line up with each other perfectly. Getting to know Ethan under the cool, collected, in-control façade and watching Andy blossom under his guidance with a liberal dose of inventive, hot, kinky sex, made this a book I enjoyed from start to finish.
The relationship between Ethan and Andy was very complex and quite different from most of the BDSM relationships I’ve seen in books. Ethan doesn’t want a sub, just complete control of the sex, but he does agree to also use his control in other parts of Andy’s life. Andy is all about exploring the limits of his kinks, especially his newfound desire for pain, but when it comes down to it, even though he asked for the other aspects of control, he finds it’s not always as easy to accept that control outside of the bedroom. I will admit to wanting to see some more of their life outside of work and sex to see their bond grow earlier in the relationship (and perhaps an epilogue to round out the ending) but I did get a feeling for their emotional connection as the relationship was tested by outside forces.
I really enjoyed seeing the men work out their kinks, even when they didn’t line up with each other perfectly. Getting to know Ethan under the cool, collected, in-control façade and watching Andy blossom under his guidance with a liberal dose of inventive, hot, kinky sex, made this a book I enjoyed from start to finish.
April 6, 2015
4.75 stars
~BR with Karen & Jewel~
More like I'm reading while you 're sleeping and then chat, but still a buddy thing
I'm not usually into hardcore BDSM, but this book...well lets say it made an impression and it ticked many of my boxes.
Andy...That little brat made me want to crawl into my kindle and smack his head upside down. Jewel was pissed at him.Karen was pissed at him. I was too, but really sometimes I wanted to cuddle him too. Andy is a an actor wannabe but due to financial troubles he applies for a bar job at a 5star hotel. He is disorganized, doesn't make enough effort to pursue his acting career and he blurts whatever crosses his mind. He is selfish and most times he thinks with his dick.
Ethan is his new boss. He is cold as an iceberg, a perfectionist, detached andblunt offensive. He doesn't take Andy's bullshit nor does he give in his attempts to seduce him. When he finally does give in, he demands total control in and out of the bedroom.
I liked so many things in this story, I'll try to keep it short because I'm totally fangirling here.
I'm a sucker for characters that start of as broody and ice cold but somewhere along the way they start to show true emotion. No wonder I loved Ethan -although I would appreciate having his POV.
I loved that the characters weren't perfect. Ethan admits and owns his mistakes and Andy...well he is who he is. Their relationship is not the perfect-distant Dom/sub relationship...
"Andrew, you’re a free agent. If I wanted a slave or a sub, I’d have one. I’m looking for a partner. One who agrees to let me take charge of certain areas of our relationship."
Andy is not just a sub or a pain slut(although ouch!...clothes pins). He really needs someone like Ethan, he thrives under Ethan's guidance and control. Yes he is spoiled and selfish but he's trying so hard and he beats himself up when he feels he disappoints Ethan.
“Train me. Discipline me. Spank my ass. Torment me. But don’t…” “Don’t?” Andy squeezed his eyes shut so all he saw was sparks and darkness. “Don’t ignore me. Don’t give up on me.”
The couple explores their kinks and the sex is smoking hot, but not overbearing. And although there is no such thing as too much sex ,sometimes in BDSM books I can't handle heavy doses of it.This was so not the case here.
Not too much angst and drama thank God! BDSM+too much drama can kill me. In fact this was a funy read at times and I loved the banter beteen Ethan and Andy and Andy's inner thoughts.
"Andy was dead. Deceased. Terminated. Someone needed to bury his ashes because Ethan’s glare had incinerated him."
Finally, best birthday present ever and an amazing HEA.
So yes, I loved this book.Highly recommended!!!
~BR with Karen & Jewel~
More like I'm reading while you 're sleeping and then chat, but still a buddy thing
I'm not usually into hardcore BDSM, but this book...well lets say it made an impression and it ticked many of my boxes.
Andy...That little brat made me want to crawl into my kindle and smack his head upside down. Jewel was pissed at him.Karen was pissed at him. I was too, but really sometimes I wanted to cuddle him too. Andy is a an actor wannabe but due to financial troubles he applies for a bar job at a 5star hotel. He is disorganized, doesn't make enough effort to pursue his acting career and he blurts whatever crosses his mind. He is selfish and most times he thinks with his dick.
Ethan is his new boss. He is cold as an iceberg, a perfectionist, detached and
I liked so many things in this story, I'll try to keep it short because I'm totally fangirling here.
I'm a sucker for characters that start of as broody and ice cold but somewhere along the way they start to show true emotion. No wonder I loved Ethan -although I would appreciate having his POV.
I loved that the characters weren't perfect. Ethan admits and owns his mistakes and Andy...well he is who he is. Their relationship is not the perfect-distant Dom/sub relationship...
"Andrew, you’re a free agent. If I wanted a slave or a sub, I’d have one. I’m looking for a partner. One who agrees to let me take charge of certain areas of our relationship."
Andy is not just a sub or a pain slut(although ouch!...clothes pins). He really needs someone like Ethan, he thrives under Ethan's guidance and control. Yes he is spoiled and selfish but he's trying so hard and he beats himself up when he feels he disappoints Ethan.
“Train me. Discipline me. Spank my ass. Torment me. But don’t…” “Don’t?” Andy squeezed his eyes shut so all he saw was sparks and darkness. “Don’t ignore me. Don’t give up on me.”
The couple explores their kinks and the sex is smoking hot, but not overbearing. And although there is no such thing as too much sex ,sometimes in BDSM books I can't handle heavy doses of it.This was so not the case here.
Not too much angst and drama thank God! BDSM+too much drama can kill me. In fact this was a funy read at times and I loved the banter beteen Ethan and Andy and Andy's inner thoughts.
"Andy was dead. Deceased. Terminated. Someone needed to bury his ashes because Ethan’s glare had incinerated him."
Finally, best birthday present ever and an amazing HEA.
So yes, I loved this book.Highly recommended!!!
March 16, 2015
This will be a fangirl review and I have no shame.
Goodness, I love the way Jane Davitt writes kink, it’s brilliant and this story was amazing. Just amazing and I am in love with everything about it. Andy and Ethan are going to be hard to forget and it’s damn good I don’t want to forget them. Ever.
This wasn’t what I expected and that’s a good thing. I know from the blurb there will be a power play between Ethan and Andy but it was so much more than that. So much more.
Told in the POV of Andy, we meet Ethan as Andy is applying for a bar job at the Totally Five Star Hotel to pay the bills while he waits for acting jobs. But when Andy meets Ethan his interviewer and would be boss? He sees a hot guy who is a control freak who can make Andy pant just by examining his clothes. Well, Ethan made me pant at that moment and I couldn’t wait for these to do start dancing around one another.
Ethan, he is a man after my own heart in many way. He loves to have things in order, to be in control and that doesn’t stop with his relationships or sex. I like that Ethan is not a Dom or considers himself one; he is just a guy who figured out he has a few kinks and that is A-Okay with me. There doesn’t need to be a naming of roles or kinks, playroom, dungeons (the mention of that made me laugh) he is simply a guy who gets off on control. Okay and he totally gets off on inflicting pain to the point of tears on those who give it all to him. *ahem* Have I mentioned I have a crush on Ethan? I mean, the man calls Andy “Andrew” and that is always hot for me. The one in control using a formal name or even an endearment? Yeah, I’d call Ethan “sir”, too Andy.
Gah! I was begging for Andy to push him so I could see what happened and great moogly was it hot. These two were hot together; a sensual explosion of control, submission, passion and intense emotions. I absolutely love how this story teeter tottered from BDSM to Domestic Discipline. It was a beautiful blend of the two; seeing Andy realize what he wants, the pain he craves in bed and the control over his life even though he wants to fight it. Seeing Andy finally absorb that not only are his desires okay, it was what Ethan wanted from him, what got him off. Unf! I adored it, Ethan controlling Andy and Andy learning to relax and give in to what Ethan wanted was stunning.
The best thing about this story for me, was watching the relationship build. These two talked. From the moment Ethan and Andy deicide to give each other a chance to any small detail or big decision, they talked their issues out and I loved it. There was patience, learning, accepting and compassion. Any questions that were raised, it was dealt with even if Ethan has to drag them out of Andy or Andy had to beg. Goodness, how I love Andy begging.
Along with all that we get with the kink, the pain, the control and the boys being hot as hell, we get humor as well. It was a nice change to see them poke fun and play with one another. Sure, Ethan likes to control Andy as much as Andy loves Ethan to control him, but the ease they fit together and could laugh with one another was endearing. Ack. I can’t get enough of them and I didn’t want their story to end. It was so damn good and consuming.
So yeah, I loved the hell out of this book, everything about it and I keep looking over my notes and grinning like a fool. I’ll stop my fangirling now. I’m going to go visit my favorite scenes again…
4.5 stars
Goodness, I love the way Jane Davitt writes kink, it’s brilliant and this story was amazing. Just amazing and I am in love with everything about it. Andy and Ethan are going to be hard to forget and it’s damn good I don’t want to forget them. Ever.
This wasn’t what I expected and that’s a good thing. I know from the blurb there will be a power play between Ethan and Andy but it was so much more than that. So much more.
Told in the POV of Andy, we meet Ethan as Andy is applying for a bar job at the Totally Five Star Hotel to pay the bills while he waits for acting jobs. But when Andy meets Ethan his interviewer and would be boss? He sees a hot guy who is a control freak who can make Andy pant just by examining his clothes. Well, Ethan made me pant at that moment and I couldn’t wait for these to do start dancing around one another.
Rules. They were part of life. House rules, school rules and the self-applied ones…
Ethan, he is a man after my own heart in many way. He loves to have things in order, to be in control and that doesn’t stop with his relationships or sex. I like that Ethan is not a Dom or considers himself one; he is just a guy who figured out he has a few kinks and that is A-Okay with me. There doesn’t need to be a naming of roles or kinks, playroom, dungeons (the mention of that made me laugh) he is simply a guy who gets off on control. Okay and he totally gets off on inflicting pain to the point of tears on those who give it all to him. *ahem* Have I mentioned I have a crush on Ethan? I mean, the man calls Andy “Andrew” and that is always hot for me. The one in control using a formal name or even an endearment? Yeah, I’d call Ethan “sir”, too Andy.
“Yes, sir.”
“My team usually calls me boss.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Oh, Andrew. You have no idea how big a mistake it is to push me…”
Gah! I was begging for Andy to push him so I could see what happened and great moogly was it hot. These two were hot together; a sensual explosion of control, submission, passion and intense emotions. I absolutely love how this story teeter tottered from BDSM to Domestic Discipline. It was a beautiful blend of the two; seeing Andy realize what he wants, the pain he craves in bed and the control over his life even though he wants to fight it. Seeing Andy finally absorb that not only are his desires okay, it was what Ethan wanted from him, what got him off. Unf! I adored it, Ethan controlling Andy and Andy learning to relax and give in to what Ethan wanted was stunning.
He’d never done anything as difficult in theory and easy in practice.
The best thing about this story for me, was watching the relationship build. These two talked. From the moment Ethan and Andy deicide to give each other a chance to any small detail or big decision, they talked their issues out and I loved it. There was patience, learning, accepting and compassion. Any questions that were raised, it was dealt with even if Ethan has to drag them out of Andy or Andy had to beg. Goodness, how I love Andy begging.
“Sadist.”
“Sweetheart.” Ethan replied, eyes twinkling.
Along with all that we get with the kink, the pain, the control and the boys being hot as hell, we get humor as well. It was a nice change to see them poke fun and play with one another. Sure, Ethan likes to control Andy as much as Andy loves Ethan to control him, but the ease they fit together and could laugh with one another was endearing. Ack. I can’t get enough of them and I didn’t want their story to end. It was so damn good and consuming.
So yeah, I loved the hell out of this book, everything about it and I keep looking over my notes and grinning like a fool. I’ll stop my fangirling now. I’m going to go visit my favorite scenes again…
4.5 stars
April 20, 2015
1.5
This book was so disappointing. I wanted to love it. I've enjoyed every other book I've read by Jane Davitt but this didn't work for me.
Andy gets a job working at a bar in an upscale hotel. His boss, Ethan is a perfectionist that pushes all of Andy’s buttons. The spark in Ethan’s eyes when Andy calls him "sir" makes Andy believe that Ethan might be someone he could explore his kinks with.
Andy likes pain but he’s never been able to really explore that kink with anyone. Ethan insists he’s not a Dom, just a control freak. He wants to have total control in bed and out. Ethan wants Andy to give him control but Andy wants him to take it. There's a constant push and pull between them as they try to navigate their kinks.
All this should’ve pushed all my buttons but I just couldn’t connect with the characters. Andy annoyed me to no end. He’s bratty and pouty and throws one temper tantrum after another. Ethan comes off as cold and distant and since he never gets a POV, he's a total mystery. It also annoyed me that the story behind his scars was built up like it was going to be some tragic revelation when it wasn't. I appreciate the fact the author didn't feel the need to give Ethan a tragic past but I don't understand why make the mystery behind his scars such a big deal then.
What bothered me the most was that instead of showing how the relationship between them changed and grew the author just skipped 2 months ahead and everything is pretty much perfect. Andy is talking about how much he loves and trusts Ethan and how much Andy has grown as well. That's just great but I would've like to see it.
I added half a star because the lemon and clothes pin scenes were hot.
March 29, 2016
This is another solid book from this author, about two men who seem unlikely together but whose kinks turn out to match up. Andy is a bit of a mess, an actor who has worked at his profession but not seriously enough to break into the money. He's looking for a job, any job, and he's used to trading on his charm and acting skills to cover his flaws. He applies for a bartending job, even though his only qualification is standing in for a friend for ten minutes.
He should have been out of luck, but Ethan, the bar manager, hasn't had any other good prospects come by. Plus he is just a little bit taken by Andy's submissive reflexes in response to Ethan's authority. Andy's not stupid, and his customer skills are good, and he manages to work his way into the job, and a serious case of lust for the boss. Andy doesn't think Ethan returns his interest, but a serendipitous meeting changes things.
I didn't fall for Andy, as I do for some of this authors characters. He was a bit lazy, and his personal kinks included pain which I have a harder time finding sexy than submission. I was more invested in Ethan, and I liked the roommate Henry. The relationship was plausible, and I did like that there were moments of errors and uncertainty. Ethan wasn't some all-knowing Dom, but a guy figuring out whether this other person really was a fit for his own turn-ons and life choices.
I did wish there had been a bit more of the story outside the bedroom. In particular, I'd have liked to have seen more of these guys once they decided to expand their relationship out of enforced boss-employee secrecy. They have very different circles of friends, and watching them navigate the waters of introducing each other into those circles would have been good fun and psychologically interesting. What was in the book was solid, as they began a relationship, but a little more superficial than some I've read from this author.
He should have been out of luck, but Ethan, the bar manager, hasn't had any other good prospects come by. Plus he is just a little bit taken by Andy's submissive reflexes in response to Ethan's authority. Andy's not stupid, and his customer skills are good, and he manages to work his way into the job, and a serious case of lust for the boss. Andy doesn't think Ethan returns his interest, but a serendipitous meeting changes things.
I didn't fall for Andy, as I do for some of this authors characters. He was a bit lazy, and his personal kinks included pain which I have a harder time finding sexy than submission. I was more invested in Ethan, and I liked the roommate Henry. The relationship was plausible, and I did like that there were moments of errors and uncertainty. Ethan wasn't some all-knowing Dom, but a guy figuring out whether this other person really was a fit for his own turn-ons and life choices.
I did wish there had been a bit more of the story outside the bedroom. In particular, I'd have liked to have seen more of these guys once they decided to expand their relationship out of enforced boss-employee secrecy. They have very different circles of friends, and watching them navigate the waters of introducing each other into those circles would have been good fun and psychologically interesting. What was in the book was solid, as they began a relationship, but a little more superficial than some I've read from this author.
March 14, 2016
BUDDY READ with Eleftheria & Jewel.
Life Under New Management wasn't my first Jane Davitt book ever, but it was my first one in quite a while and I was left wondering 'why?'. This book was more than a little interesting and definitely edged outside of the box for me in terms of the sexual content. I've read a few books with BDSM or D/s tones to them but the focus of this one was a bit outside of what I've come to expect in regards to this type of relationship.
Andrew is an aspiring young actor whose life is more than a little disorganized and he desperately needs a job. Ethan manages the bars at the Totally 5 Star Hotel in Vancouver.
If opposites attract these two are it, total absolute opposites in so many ways. But their attraction is strong. Watching these two men maneuver their way around each other as they try to ignore and resist their mutual attraction was fascinating to say the least. But what happens when the maneuvers go from resist and ignore to working together to create a strong and lasting relationship is even better.
I liked Ethan from the word go. At times he seemed a bit heavy handed but there was just an appeal about him that worked for me. Andrew was a bit of a different story. At first I thought he was kind of cute and I could see where he honestly needed someone like Ethan in his life. Then for a while I wanted him to go away. He wasn't good enough for Ethan and that was that, but somewhere in the not good enough things started to change and Andrew started to mature, I started to like him and see how much Ethan wanted him.
Where this book stepped outside of the box for me actually something that pertained to Andrew. Andrew is shall we say a bit of a pain slut. Unlike some books that I've read Ms Davitt put a bit more focus into this aspect of their relationship and I think in some ways it unnerved me a bit but it was well done and I began to understand it a bit better, it's not my thing and never will be but what the author showed me was a relationship where Andy's need for pain could be met by a partner who did it in a safe manner meeting both his and Andy's needs without truly hurting Andy.
As well as the MCs this story was graced by some interesting and strong characters. While Amanda didn't get a lot of page time but I liked her. She was the employee who was going on maternity leave. The reason for the job opening that Andy was applying for initially. Joel, another hotel employee who intrigued me. Charlotte, the hotel manager. A strong career driven woman not afraid to speak up and confident in herself and her ability to perform her job. Something that we don't see often enough in books and most of all there was Henry, Andy's geekie roommate. I'd love to know his story he was awkward and funny and added to this story in the most a-dork-able way.
Oops, I almost forgot one of the things I really liked about this story is that it's not insta-love...insta-lust yes, but the love part was the result of our MCs taking the time to develop a relationship and learn about each other.
I would have liked a little more at the ending for this story and yet it was done in such a way that I didn't feel it was incomplete...just that there were opportunities for Ms Davitt to give us more and hopefully she will.
Life Under New Management wasn't my first Jane Davitt book ever, but it was my first one in quite a while and I was left wondering 'why?'. This book was more than a little interesting and definitely edged outside of the box for me in terms of the sexual content. I've read a few books with BDSM or D/s tones to them but the focus of this one was a bit outside of what I've come to expect in regards to this type of relationship.
Andrew is an aspiring young actor whose life is more than a little disorganized and he desperately needs a job. Ethan manages the bars at the Totally 5 Star Hotel in Vancouver.
If opposites attract these two are it, total absolute opposites in so many ways. But their attraction is strong. Watching these two men maneuver their way around each other as they try to ignore and resist their mutual attraction was fascinating to say the least. But what happens when the maneuvers go from resist and ignore to working together to create a strong and lasting relationship is even better.
I liked Ethan from the word go. At times he seemed a bit heavy handed but there was just an appeal about him that worked for me. Andrew was a bit of a different story. At first I thought he was kind of cute and I could see where he honestly needed someone like Ethan in his life. Then for a while I wanted him to go away. He wasn't good enough for Ethan and that was that, but somewhere in the not good enough things started to change and Andrew started to mature, I started to like him and see how much Ethan wanted him.
Where this book stepped outside of the box for me actually something that pertained to Andrew. Andrew is shall we say a bit of a pain slut. Unlike some books that I've read Ms Davitt put a bit more focus into this aspect of their relationship and I think in some ways it unnerved me a bit but it was well done and I began to understand it a bit better, it's not my thing and never will be but what the author showed me was a relationship where Andy's need for pain could be met by a partner who did it in a safe manner meeting both his and Andy's needs without truly hurting Andy.
As well as the MCs this story was graced by some interesting and strong characters. While Amanda didn't get a lot of page time but I liked her. She was the employee who was going on maternity leave. The reason for the job opening that Andy was applying for initially. Joel, another hotel employee who intrigued me. Charlotte, the hotel manager. A strong career driven woman not afraid to speak up and confident in herself and her ability to perform her job. Something that we don't see often enough in books and most of all there was Henry, Andy's geekie roommate. I'd love to know his story he was awkward and funny and added to this story in the most a-dork-able way.
Oops, I almost forgot one of the things I really liked about this story is that it's not insta-love...insta-lust yes, but the love part was the result of our MCs taking the time to develop a relationship and learn about each other.
I would have liked a little more at the ending for this story and yet it was done in such a way that I didn't feel it was incomplete...just that there were opportunities for Ms Davitt to give us more and hopefully she will.
March 9, 2015
It was a gripping read, a believable development of Andy from being a slob partying his nights away to realizing what he needs for a fulfilling relationship. Ethan remained a bit aloof as we didn't get to see his POV. It was a very hot read - nevertheless I felt like watching through a pane of glass, oddly detached.
May 19, 2015
Everything you expect from a Davitt story: sensual, kinky, and emotional goodness.
Overall, tale of a reformed brat.
Favorite quote:
Overall, tale of a reformed brat.
Favorite quote:
If I’m a jigsaw puzzle, you’re the first guy who’s ever gone to the trouble of sorting out the pieces, doing the border, giving me limits, making sense of the whole picture.
March 25, 2015
3.5 stars rounded up
I guess I wanted a little more from Ethan and Andy's story than I got so although I enjoyed it, it wasn't all that I had hoped it would be. So much of the story focused around the two of them and their sexual relationship that I didn't feel we got to know them well enough outside the bedroom. I would have liked to have had witnessed Ethan meet Andy's friends, to see how Ethan and Henry got on, etc. I would have also liked to know more about Ethan, his friends, his background, etc. We really only received a short snapshot of where he got his scars but not much else so I am left feeling like he's kind of a stranger. Overall, I just felt shorted by this story. I really enjoyed what I read, it just fell a little flat on the story line and character development to be a favorite.
I guess I wanted a little more from Ethan and Andy's story than I got so although I enjoyed it, it wasn't all that I had hoped it would be. So much of the story focused around the two of them and their sexual relationship that I didn't feel we got to know them well enough outside the bedroom. I would have liked to have had witnessed Ethan meet Andy's friends, to see how Ethan and Henry got on, etc. I would have also liked to know more about Ethan, his friends, his background, etc. We really only received a short snapshot of where he got his scars but not much else so I am left feeling like he's kind of a stranger. Overall, I just felt shorted by this story. I really enjoyed what I read, it just fell a little flat on the story line and character development to be a favorite.
April 6, 2015
A review by The Blogger Girls.
This book is part of the Totally Five Stars series written by various authors. The only connection they have is that they all center around five-star hotels in various locations around the world. I am a big fan of Ms. Davitt, which is what lured me to this story.
First, we have Andy, a struggling actor who needs to find another job until he makes his big break. With very little actual skills, he relies on his acting ability to win him a job as a bartender at a big hotel. He gets off to a rocky start, but eventually convinces his potential boss, Ethan, to give him a chance to prove himself. It doesn’t take long before Andy is interested in more than the job. Ethan quickly shows Andy that he has some pretty high standards and expects them to be met. He’s all business, much to Andy’s disappointment and attempts otherwise.
Again, Andy’s persistence pays off, though not quite in the way he was thinking. Andy’s life is one disorganized mess. Ethan is an organizer and manager, in every sense. There is attraction on both sides, but Ethan isn’t looking for just sex – he isn’t a dom looking for a sub. He is a perfectionist looking for someone to manage, organize and mold into a better person. Andy seizes the opportunity, knowing his life is in pretty big shambles at the moment, and hands the reins over to Ethan, who controls everything from Andy’s diet and exercise, to grooming and to exactly what goes on sexually.
The sex is often quite hot, though there are some more mundane clinical type activities as well. Ethan likes doling out the “s” in various ways, and Andy finds he enjoys the “m” enough to make it work. He does struggle with the roles every now and then, which was totally to be expected given the drastic change Andy made in his life, so this totally worked for me. He’s a bit bratty, but not overly so. Ethan is strong and a bit bull-headed at times, but you can see through most of that to his true feelings about Andy.
My only real niggle with this story was that we didn’t really get to know these guys very well. It felt superficial or in the moment. I think this mostly involved Ethan, as I found I wanted to know more about his past, wanted to see more interaction with him maybe meeting Andy’s friends, etc. He was the bigger mystery for me, as I had many unanswered questions regarding him.
But, all in all, I really enjoyed this. It was a quick, easy read that, while not on the beginner BDSM (or, more accurately, S/M) level, I didn’t find it overly dark in that respect, though it is different than the usual. I really enjoyed not reading the same old, same old, and this certainly delivers in that respect. If you’re looking for something a bit different, definitely give this one a try.
November 10, 2015
This is the first Jane Davitt novel I have read despite having three others on my kindle TBR...and which now must be read.
Have thoroughly enjoyed this story, and thank you Vivian from BDSM group for hosting this as a Book of the Month read. I liked it not least as it is set in a city I know quite well, the beautiful city, Vancouver, one of my favourite places I've been fortunate to visit. The luxury hotel was so like one I stayed in, (The Four Seasons) it was as if I was back there. Slight variation on décor of bar only, so added benefits for me.
Jane's character development is very good. Andy, kind hearted, twenties, gay, bratty, disorganised and needing guidance to get something better out of his life, he still behaves as a student without any true life focus. Aims to be an actor, gets a temp job in the luxury hotel, where he meets Ethan, older, mid thirties, also gay, the overall bar manager, with an orderly, professional & highly organised way of life both at home and work, in fact he is a borderline obsessive compulsive disorder neat freak. Andy is attracted straight away...but it doesn't appear to be reciprocated!
So, Jane, has given us opposite personalities with very different lifestyles, and, of course, opposites often attract, but at what costs. Here we find one naturally dominant character, but not a trained Dom from any club scene, and one brat, who finds his masochistic & submissive streak emerging between his bouts of perverse brattiness. Lovely mix, and in real life would be sure to drive one or the other to disaster. But here we have problems, faced up to, consequences dished that leads to heightened sexuality and sex play including some figging, mild chemical play, and a Wartenberg wheel. Delightfully written erotic scenes for the imagination feeds Jane Davitt feeds us on.
Her other minor characters are also well developed, lovely sweet Henry, to shame for him, but also, vile Niall...in my opinion anyway, never could stand people like him in RL.
This is MM romance and BDSM and a very good story, borderline 4/5 stars for me, so five highlighted for round up.
Have thoroughly enjoyed this story, and thank you Vivian from BDSM group for hosting this as a Book of the Month read. I liked it not least as it is set in a city I know quite well, the beautiful city, Vancouver, one of my favourite places I've been fortunate to visit. The luxury hotel was so like one I stayed in, (The Four Seasons) it was as if I was back there. Slight variation on décor of bar only, so added benefits for me.
Jane's character development is very good. Andy, kind hearted, twenties, gay, bratty, disorganised and needing guidance to get something better out of his life, he still behaves as a student without any true life focus. Aims to be an actor, gets a temp job in the luxury hotel, where he meets Ethan, older, mid thirties, also gay, the overall bar manager, with an orderly, professional & highly organised way of life both at home and work, in fact he is a borderline obsessive compulsive disorder neat freak. Andy is attracted straight away...but it doesn't appear to be reciprocated!
So, Jane, has given us opposite personalities with very different lifestyles, and, of course, opposites often attract, but at what costs. Here we find one naturally dominant character, but not a trained Dom from any club scene, and one brat, who finds his masochistic & submissive streak emerging between his bouts of perverse brattiness. Lovely mix, and in real life would be sure to drive one or the other to disaster. But here we have problems, faced up to, consequences dished that leads to heightened sexuality and sex play including some figging, mild chemical play, and a Wartenberg wheel. Delightfully written erotic scenes for the imagination feeds Jane Davitt feeds us on.
Her other minor characters are also well developed, lovely sweet Henry, to shame for him, but also, vile Niall...in my opinion anyway, never could stand people like him in RL.
This is MM romance and BDSM and a very good story, borderline 4/5 stars for me, so five highlighted for round up.
August 25, 2016
4.5 stars. Jane Davitt's books never let me down. This one was really unique and not what you might expect.
April 5, 2015
Buddy read with Eleftheria and Karen!
And if anyone's life needs new management, it would be Andy's.
Life Under New Management takes place in Vancouver, BC. Andy is an actor, but not exactly a disciplined one, or even dedicated. And he's not one that actually gets work, either. Are you shocked? I'm not. He is a whiny, immature, selfish, entitled brat who expects to get by on his charm. Well, that charm isn't doing much to pay the rent, and Andy really really needs a job.
Ethan manages the bar's at a five star hotel in the city. He's dedicated, meticulous, and very much of a perfectionist. He expects everyone that works for him to be as meticulous as he is. Ethan is structured, disciplined and driven. He expects no more from any of his employees than he expects from himself. High standards? Definitely. Hard work? Absolutely. He runs a tight ship and he expects everyone to do their jobs to perfection. In his personal life, Ethan is a kinky bastard, and though he doesn't go for the whole Dom/sub thing, he does demand complete control in the bedroom and at least some control out of it.
Andy applies for a bartender position at Ethan's hotel, figuring he could charm his way into a job and charm his way to good tips. Ethan sees right through him, though, and makes him prove he can think on his feet and then decides to give him a chance.
Once Ethan, going against his better judgement, decides to give Andy a chance in a relationship, things get hot. And frustrating. And hot. Andy really has trouble getting past his "me me me" attitude and though he says he wants Ethan to take control - and I really think he does - there is such a struggle there. Andy goes from obedient to bratty so quick I about got whiplash. For a good 60% of the book, it was two steps forward, three steps back. I kind of wanted to shake both of them for a while there. Especially Andy. Repeatedly.
The meat of the story is the struggle that both Ethan and Andy go through to help Andy realize all of his untapped potential. Ethan helps Andy become a much more disciplined person, from his diet and exercise plan, to organizing his life. It isn't just about the control kink. And while anyone that tried to tell me what to do to that level would feel all kinds of pain, Andy really needs it. He thrives on the structure and the discipline and that he also gets off on all of it is a definite plus, for both him and Ethan.
Four kinky stars! Recommended :)
And if anyone's life needs new management, it would be Andy's.
Life Under New Management takes place in Vancouver, BC. Andy is an actor, but not exactly a disciplined one, or even dedicated. And he's not one that actually gets work, either. Are you shocked? I'm not. He is a whiny, immature, selfish, entitled brat who expects to get by on his charm. Well, that charm isn't doing much to pay the rent, and Andy really really needs a job.
Ethan manages the bar's at a five star hotel in the city. He's dedicated, meticulous, and very much of a perfectionist. He expects everyone that works for him to be as meticulous as he is. Ethan is structured, disciplined and driven. He expects no more from any of his employees than he expects from himself. High standards? Definitely. Hard work? Absolutely. He runs a tight ship and he expects everyone to do their jobs to perfection. In his personal life, Ethan is a kinky bastard, and though he doesn't go for the whole Dom/sub thing, he does demand complete control in the bedroom and at least some control out of it.
Andy applies for a bartender position at Ethan's hotel, figuring he could charm his way into a job and charm his way to good tips. Ethan sees right through him, though, and makes him prove he can think on his feet and then decides to give him a chance.
Once Ethan, going against his better judgement, decides to give Andy a chance in a relationship, things get hot. And frustrating. And hot. Andy really has trouble getting past his "me me me" attitude and though he says he wants Ethan to take control - and I really think he does - there is such a struggle there. Andy goes from obedient to bratty so quick I about got whiplash. For a good 60% of the book, it was two steps forward, three steps back. I kind of wanted to shake both of them for a while there. Especially Andy. Repeatedly.
The meat of the story is the struggle that both Ethan and Andy go through to help Andy realize all of his untapped potential. Ethan helps Andy become a much more disciplined person, from his diet and exercise plan, to organizing his life. It isn't just about the control kink. And while anyone that tried to tell me what to do to that level would feel all kinds of pain, Andy really needs it. He thrives on the structure and the discipline and that he also gets off on all of it is a definite plus, for both him and Ethan.
Four kinky stars! Recommended :)
April 1, 2015
I read enjoyed this story which is Jane Davitt's contribution to the Totally Five Star series of stories. I loved the way the two men balanced each other, giving/taking what was needed on both their parts to build a relationship that lead them to more fulfilled lives and ultimately love.
The BDSM side was an interesting exploration into a relationship where the dominant partner wanted to control all aspects of the relationship every sexual move. Ethan opened Andy's eyes to the pain he craved, and Ethan knew exactly how to give Andy exactly what he needed. The control extends to Ethan influencing all aspects of Andy's life, pushing him to achieve his goals and be the best man he can be.
The hotel provided a nice backdrop and introduced the employer/employee angle which added another element to the story. Read this is you enjoy interesting characters, a bit of kink, a good dash of sex and a well paced story.
The BDSM side was an interesting exploration into a relationship where the dominant partner wanted to control all aspects of the relationship every sexual move. Ethan opened Andy's eyes to the pain he craved, and Ethan knew exactly how to give Andy exactly what he needed. The control extends to Ethan influencing all aspects of Andy's life, pushing him to achieve his goals and be the best man he can be.
The hotel provided a nice backdrop and introduced the employer/employee angle which added another element to the story. Read this is you enjoy interesting characters, a bit of kink, a good dash of sex and a well paced story.
March 18, 2015
2.75 stars
Didn't manage to grip me at all, the kinky stuff was good and well done but the storyline itself fell flat. I don't think the whole Niall situation was necessary but it served it's purpose so I guess it was okay. I really wished the story had a stronger ending.
All in all it was okay, but I didn't care for either Andy nor Ethan, I liked Henry best...
Didn't manage to grip me at all, the kinky stuff was good and well done but the storyline itself fell flat. I don't think the whole Niall situation was necessary but it served it's purpose so I guess it was okay. I really wished the story had a stronger ending.
All in all it was okay, but I didn't care for either Andy nor Ethan, I liked Henry best...
March 15, 2015
Oh soo good!
October 6, 2021
4.7 stars
November 13, 2015
Kitty's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
3.5 stars
I was enthused when I read the blub for Life Under New Management. Excited to see just what was in store for Andy and just how perverse Ethan’s consequences were. Dominance in a M/m relationship would be interesting and new to me. However, I was a little bit disappointed with how the story went since I was expecting something totally different than what I got.
Andy was a true submissive at heart. Right from the beginning he had me scratching my head as to where his character was going. He came across as wishy-washy and couldn’t tell the truth to save his soul until he was given the ultimatum by Ethan. Once the truth was out and he was given a trial run at the hotel, he continued to be a jerk. Seemed that the only thing he wanted to do was get the attention of Ethan, not do the job that he was hired to do.
Andy intrigued Ethan and had him wondering if he could reform him, make him into the person he thinks he could be. There would have to be some concessions made my Andy. He would have to clean up his act, dress better, follow the regimen set forth by him. If he’s good and makes Ethan proud, he’ll be in for the sex of his life …. If not, consequences.
As things progressed between Ethan and Andy, I was totally disillusioned. I thought there would be more of a BDSM dynamic between the two of them. What I got was a kinky man and a spoiled brat. Now, I like fun brats but Andy just rubbed me the wrong way. One minute it was “yes, sir” then next he was pouting because he didn’t get his way. I will agree with Ethan on one thing though, there is definitely a fine line between begging and nagging … and Andy came off as nagging more often than not. Ethan was very clear on what he wanted from Andy, how he planned to help him take control of his life, his looks, his personal decisions. He gave him the choice of total control or just control in bed. Andy knew what was what when he went into this but couldn’t stop himself from being selfish and bratty.
When everything went down with Ethan and his job, Andy finally stepped up and became the man I was expecting from the beginning. He finally showed his real love for Ethan and his commitment to the relationship. Yea!
The highlight of this story was definitely Henry. He was the comic relief. An anal virgin, when he finally gave it up to Mahito it was fun and cute. Nerdy Henry finally found out what he was missing and the banter back and forth between Andy and Henry was wonderful.
So, unfortunately, this is not a Five Star review for me. I would have liked a little more of the BDSM dynamic between Ethan and Andy. I would have like Andy to be a little bit more giving and less spoiled. As for the writing of this new-to-me author, Jane Davitt, I thoroughly enjoyed it. She did keep the story moving, threw in a little suspense and did give me a few good chuckles. I just wish she wrote Andy a little bit stronger.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
3.5 stars
I was enthused when I read the blub for Life Under New Management. Excited to see just what was in store for Andy and just how perverse Ethan’s consequences were. Dominance in a M/m relationship would be interesting and new to me. However, I was a little bit disappointed with how the story went since I was expecting something totally different than what I got.
Andy was a true submissive at heart. Right from the beginning he had me scratching my head as to where his character was going. He came across as wishy-washy and couldn’t tell the truth to save his soul until he was given the ultimatum by Ethan. Once the truth was out and he was given a trial run at the hotel, he continued to be a jerk. Seemed that the only thing he wanted to do was get the attention of Ethan, not do the job that he was hired to do.
Andy intrigued Ethan and had him wondering if he could reform him, make him into the person he thinks he could be. There would have to be some concessions made my Andy. He would have to clean up his act, dress better, follow the regimen set forth by him. If he’s good and makes Ethan proud, he’ll be in for the sex of his life …. If not, consequences.
As things progressed between Ethan and Andy, I was totally disillusioned. I thought there would be more of a BDSM dynamic between the two of them. What I got was a kinky man and a spoiled brat. Now, I like fun brats but Andy just rubbed me the wrong way. One minute it was “yes, sir” then next he was pouting because he didn’t get his way. I will agree with Ethan on one thing though, there is definitely a fine line between begging and nagging … and Andy came off as nagging more often than not. Ethan was very clear on what he wanted from Andy, how he planned to help him take control of his life, his looks, his personal decisions. He gave him the choice of total control or just control in bed. Andy knew what was what when he went into this but couldn’t stop himself from being selfish and bratty.
When everything went down with Ethan and his job, Andy finally stepped up and became the man I was expecting from the beginning. He finally showed his real love for Ethan and his commitment to the relationship. Yea!
The highlight of this story was definitely Henry. He was the comic relief. An anal virgin, when he finally gave it up to Mahito it was fun and cute. Nerdy Henry finally found out what he was missing and the banter back and forth between Andy and Henry was wonderful.
So, unfortunately, this is not a Five Star review for me. I would have liked a little more of the BDSM dynamic between Ethan and Andy. I would have like Andy to be a little bit more giving and less spoiled. As for the writing of this new-to-me author, Jane Davitt, I thoroughly enjoyed it. She did keep the story moving, threw in a little suspense and did give me a few good chuckles. I just wish she wrote Andy a little bit stronger.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
September 9, 2015
I was excited to be able to WIN this book during the Goodreads MM Romance Celebration Week!
I wasn't disappointed. I was sucked in and there was no turning back!
We have Andy who is an actor and is waiting for his big break, but he doesn't have a lot of offers. He isn't as serious about it as he lets on. His rent is due and he is in need of a job(even if it's temporary) to pay the bills(he can't rely on his roomie to cover him all the time).
So, he waltz in this grand hotel and tries to bullshit is way into a bartending job, something he has no clue how to do. He is ready to wing it.
There he meets the man in charge, his potential new boss, Ethan. Ethan hits all types of buttons on Andy, buttons he doesn't even realize he has yet. Unlike his laid back, chill personality, Ethan is the opposite. Ethan is hardcore when it comes to work and ethics. It's his way or the highway and he doesn't tolerate no one's shit. He sees right through Andy.
But Andy begs and pleads for a chance. He swears he is a fast learner and if only he was given a chance, he'd prove to Ethan he was the man for the job. So Ethan grits his teeth and does just that.
Ethan has no idea but Andy just gets under his skin and stays there. Andy pushes his buttons but he doesn't want to waste his time on him. He doesn't think it is worth it and he knows that Andy finds him attractive and wants him, but he pushes him away.
Finally the crackling sparks a flame and Andy is introduced to a world he didn't know about by Ethan and he realizes he likes it. He craves it. It makes him feel... complete. But he doesn't just bend over and take it, he likes to push back(be bratty) and watch how Ethan reacts. Both of them aren't looking for a relationship, but that is where they find themselves. But they choose to keep it a secret, not because they aren't out, but because they want to see if it will work out first. They are both testing waters and it is going to take a lot of work and determination to make it happen.
I loved the watching them interact and how their relationship develops.
I wasn't disappointed. I was sucked in and there was no turning back!
We have Andy who is an actor and is waiting for his big break, but he doesn't have a lot of offers. He isn't as serious about it as he lets on. His rent is due and he is in need of a job(even if it's temporary) to pay the bills(he can't rely on his roomie to cover him all the time).
So, he waltz in this grand hotel and tries to bullshit is way into a bartending job, something he has no clue how to do. He is ready to wing it.
There he meets the man in charge, his potential new boss, Ethan. Ethan hits all types of buttons on Andy, buttons he doesn't even realize he has yet. Unlike his laid back, chill personality, Ethan is the opposite. Ethan is hardcore when it comes to work and ethics. It's his way or the highway and he doesn't tolerate no one's shit. He sees right through Andy.
But Andy begs and pleads for a chance. He swears he is a fast learner and if only he was given a chance, he'd prove to Ethan he was the man for the job. So Ethan grits his teeth and does just that.
Ethan has no idea but Andy just gets under his skin and stays there. Andy pushes his buttons but he doesn't want to waste his time on him. He doesn't think it is worth it and he knows that Andy finds him attractive and wants him, but he pushes him away.
Finally the crackling sparks a flame and Andy is introduced to a world he didn't know about by Ethan and he realizes he likes it. He craves it. It makes him feel... complete. But he doesn't just bend over and take it, he likes to push back(be bratty) and watch how Ethan reacts. Both of them aren't looking for a relationship, but that is where they find themselves. But they choose to keep it a secret, not because they aren't out, but because they want to see if it will work out first. They are both testing waters and it is going to take a lot of work and determination to make it happen.
I loved the watching them interact and how their relationship develops.
March 16, 2015
With this book I have so many of my favourite things in one place. I have an author who is consistently a four or five star rating for me. There are strong characters, beautiful settings and a fantastic storyline. And then the cherry on the top: the BDSM component that is an essential part of the whole.
It's not a standard BDSM book. Ethan isn't a standard Dom, doesn't even like to be referred to as such. And Andy definitely isn't a standard sub, or even brat. There is a mix of 'traditional BDSM', Domestic Discipline and pure pain play throughout the whole book. But it works... oh yes, it definitely works! Refreshingly (to me at least) is that it's also not all about the sex. While there is super-hot smexing in the book, it's not the be-it-and-end-all of the story. There is so much more to the whole than just that.
While some may disagree with me on Andy not being just a spoiled brat, I see him more as a man who is lacking any firm boundaries. He needs limits, routine and I feel that he's never truly been given any. Lucky for him, Ethan is more than ready for this monumental task lol.
It's not a standard BDSM book. Ethan isn't a standard Dom, doesn't even like to be referred to as such. And Andy definitely isn't a standard sub, or even brat. There is a mix of 'traditional BDSM', Domestic Discipline and pure pain play throughout the whole book. But it works... oh yes, it definitely works! Refreshingly (to me at least) is that it's also not all about the sex. While there is super-hot smexing in the book, it's not the be-it-and-end-all of the story. There is so much more to the whole than just that.
While some may disagree with me on Andy not being just a spoiled brat, I see him more as a man who is lacking any firm boundaries. He needs limits, routine and I feel that he's never truly been given any. Lucky for him, Ethan is more than ready for this monumental task lol.
May 25, 2015
Andy, a struggling actor, goes for a job as a bartender in an exclusive hotel.
There he meets, Ethan, the man who would be his boss. Despite a less than stellar interview, Ethan agrees to give Andy a weeks trial.
There is of course an attraction between the 2 men. With some gentle prompting, Andy finds out what Ethan's kinks are and surprise, surprise, he has them too, all be it that they have lain dormant.
I enjoyed this book. The development of Andy and then of the relationship between Andy and Ethan. Ethan, who had wanted to be a Dom in the bedroom only, and Andy who wanted him to take care of decisions outside of the bedroom.
The only negative about this book for me was the spanking. I am so not a lover of reading about spankings in my books.
I am wondering if this is going to be book 1 of a new series. If so, I would definitely be reading more.
There he meets, Ethan, the man who would be his boss. Despite a less than stellar interview, Ethan agrees to give Andy a weeks trial.
There is of course an attraction between the 2 men. With some gentle prompting, Andy finds out what Ethan's kinks are and surprise, surprise, he has them too, all be it that they have lain dormant.
I enjoyed this book. The development of Andy and then of the relationship between Andy and Ethan. Ethan, who had wanted to be a Dom in the bedroom only, and Andy who wanted him to take care of decisions outside of the bedroom.
The only negative about this book for me was the spanking. I am so not a lover of reading about spankings in my books.
I am wondering if this is going to be book 1 of a new series. If so, I would definitely be reading more.
May 1, 2015
I'm very undecided about this book, there are things I loved and things that just annoyed me.
I really enjoyed the first half of the book. I thought that Andys realization of his submission and his needs for someone to 'control' his life were very realistically done. I loved seeing him open himself up to the new sensations and experiences with Ethan. The beginning of their relationship was soooo hot, the spankings OH MY GOD!! SOOOO delicious! All the sex scenes were smoking!
I just couldn't stand Andys moods flipping about, usually this doesn't bother me. I guess all the arguments were done all bunched together so it felt like overkill. There seemed to be alot of flip flopping with what Andy wanted from Ethan as well. It was just a character that had some really annoying tendancies, he was gorgeous when he submitted, but otherwise kinda annoying.
I really enjoyed the first half of the book. I thought that Andys realization of his submission and his needs for someone to 'control' his life were very realistically done. I loved seeing him open himself up to the new sensations and experiences with Ethan. The beginning of their relationship was soooo hot, the spankings OH MY GOD!! SOOOO delicious! All the sex scenes were smoking!
I just couldn't stand Andys moods flipping about, usually this doesn't bother me. I guess all the arguments were done all bunched together so it felt like overkill. There seemed to be alot of flip flopping with what Andy wanted from Ethan as well. It was just a character that had some really annoying tendancies, he was gorgeous when he submitted, but otherwise kinda annoying.
April 8, 2015
3.5 stars.
This book was so great. Till the point Ethan and Andy start the actual relationship. This particular form of BDSM is so not my cuppa..all that micro-managing makes me itchy and uncomfortable. It was also very awkward, which was understandable, but still a turn-off.
This book was so great. Till the point Ethan and Andy start the actual relationship. This particular form of BDSM is so not my cuppa..all that micro-managing makes me itchy and uncomfortable. It was also very awkward, which was understandable, but still a turn-off.
March 18, 2019
I liked this book, as far as the writing goes, its pretty well done. The premise grabbed me right away and started off strong. The attraction between the two is palpable and Andy is a very likable and relatable character, if a bit of a player. His obsession with getting Ethan's attention is enjoyable but the book veers into BDSM territory and never really leaves it. I sometimes enjoy that sub-genre and it was alright here but it took over the book and I was not as invested in the couple. Ethan is remote, he's meant to be but I never quite warm up to him as I should in the end. Still, I never considered stopping and read it pretty thoroughly for the most part, though considering I hadn't really had a chance to read much due to tax season it could have been down to that. I do like this author though and plan to read more!
April 23, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
Life Under New Management is appropriately titled as this is the story of Andy getting his life managed. Andy is just barely getting by on his looks and has little motivation to really apply himself. He instantly wants to impress Ethan, but Ethan is almost finished with Andy and his attitude before things ever get started. Ethan is quietly in control and everything has to be just so in both his work life and his home life. He pushes Andy away at first as Ethan is not just seeking a sex partner. Ethan is looking for someone he can advise and bring into focus, someone who will give himself over sexually, not quite a submissive, but someone that enjoys the pain. And, Andy realizes just how much he does enjoy the pain. There were plenty of sex and D/s elements here but it was all very far removed emotionally as they were not having a romantic relationship at first. They are both balancing out a need of giving and taking.
This was the book that I kept expecting would get better and I thought the next scene and then the next scene would be the one to draw me in. It never quite happened. Andy is whiny and needy and petulant. He nags Ethan even to the point of nagging out a declaration of love from him. Ethan is far removed. The story is told from Andy’s POV and we learn almost nothing about Ethan and his background. When a small glimpse is offered, details are shelved until the end of the book, where it is too little and way too late in the story. By the end of the book, Andy barely knew anything about him either. A lot had to be happening with Ethan during the story, but we weren’t invited in or even allowed to look. While Andy does have some growth over the course of the book, by the time it was starting to show I was not attached to him at all. Since the men are keeping their relationship a secret, a good portion of their story is told from the bedroom. There are plenty of erotic scenes here involving Ethan giving out “consequences” or rewards as the case may be, all within the realm of play. While reading an erotic novel, however, the goal is not to want to skim over the erotic scenes, but these two did not hold my attention. This was a character driven novel without offering depth to those characters. I have reservations about recommending this one, but it may have some appeal elsewhere
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3 stars
Life Under New Management is appropriately titled as this is the story of Andy getting his life managed. Andy is just barely getting by on his looks and has little motivation to really apply himself. He instantly wants to impress Ethan, but Ethan is almost finished with Andy and his attitude before things ever get started. Ethan is quietly in control and everything has to be just so in both his work life and his home life. He pushes Andy away at first as Ethan is not just seeking a sex partner. Ethan is looking for someone he can advise and bring into focus, someone who will give himself over sexually, not quite a submissive, but someone that enjoys the pain. And, Andy realizes just how much he does enjoy the pain. There were plenty of sex and D/s elements here but it was all very far removed emotionally as they were not having a romantic relationship at first. They are both balancing out a need of giving and taking.
This was the book that I kept expecting would get better and I thought the next scene and then the next scene would be the one to draw me in. It never quite happened. Andy is whiny and needy and petulant. He nags Ethan even to the point of nagging out a declaration of love from him. Ethan is far removed. The story is told from Andy’s POV and we learn almost nothing about Ethan and his background. When a small glimpse is offered, details are shelved until the end of the book, where it is too little and way too late in the story. By the end of the book, Andy barely knew anything about him either. A lot had to be happening with Ethan during the story, but we weren’t invited in or even allowed to look. While Andy does have some growth over the course of the book, by the time it was starting to show I was not attached to him at all. Since the men are keeping their relationship a secret, a good portion of their story is told from the bedroom. There are plenty of erotic scenes here involving Ethan giving out “consequences” or rewards as the case may be, all within the realm of play. While reading an erotic novel, however, the goal is not to want to skim over the erotic scenes, but these two did not hold my attention. This was a character driven novel without offering depth to those characters. I have reservations about recommending this one, but it may have some appeal elsewhere
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
July 7, 2015
Has its good qualities, but I couldn’t make myself like one of the guys
Warning: This review might contain what some people consider SPOILERS.
Rating: 6/10
PROS:
- There are little details scattered throughout the story that serve to create a well-rounded view of the two main characters.
- The buildup here is slow and meticulous, which I appreciated. By no means is this a “slam, bam, thank you” kind of story.
- The story contains some very mundane, realistic little moments that made me chuckle at the frank way in which they’re written. This is one of my favorites: “After the bath [and the spanking], they admired his butt in the mirror.”
- There’s a lot here that suggests the author has more than just shallow book knowledge of the BDSM lifestyle. The characters’ interactions are theatrical at times, but there are also some scenes that touch on realism in a way that few authors manage to achieve.
CONS:
- I had a hard time liking both characters at the start. Andy is not as charming as he thinks he is, and we see no scenes from Ethan’s point of view to get any sort of explanation as to why he’s so frigid toward everyone. Ten, fifteen, and even twenty percent in, I wanted to stop reading, and I never warmed much to Ethan at all, even as the story progressed.
- I appreciated that Davitt spent time on developing the relationship and didn’t throw the guys into bed together within the first three chapters. However, because it took so long for the relationship to actually start, the progression from “we just started dating” to “we’re in love and moving in together” seemed rushed to me.
Overall comments: I didn’t dislike this, but I didn’t particularly like it either. The guys spend a good deal of time insulting each other toward the beginning, and I don’t find that fun. This is a story in which I think scenes from both characters’ perspectives would really have helped, especially early on. I needed to see inside of Ethan’s head--to see something other than the cold, controlled jerk he is on the outside.
Warning: This review might contain what some people consider SPOILERS.
Rating: 6/10
PROS:
- There are little details scattered throughout the story that serve to create a well-rounded view of the two main characters.
- The buildup here is slow and meticulous, which I appreciated. By no means is this a “slam, bam, thank you” kind of story.
- The story contains some very mundane, realistic little moments that made me chuckle at the frank way in which they’re written. This is one of my favorites: “After the bath [and the spanking], they admired his butt in the mirror.”
- There’s a lot here that suggests the author has more than just shallow book knowledge of the BDSM lifestyle. The characters’ interactions are theatrical at times, but there are also some scenes that touch on realism in a way that few authors manage to achieve.
CONS:
- I had a hard time liking both characters at the start. Andy is not as charming as he thinks he is, and we see no scenes from Ethan’s point of view to get any sort of explanation as to why he’s so frigid toward everyone. Ten, fifteen, and even twenty percent in, I wanted to stop reading, and I never warmed much to Ethan at all, even as the story progressed.
- I appreciated that Davitt spent time on developing the relationship and didn’t throw the guys into bed together within the first three chapters. However, because it took so long for the relationship to actually start, the progression from “we just started dating” to “we’re in love and moving in together” seemed rushed to me.
Overall comments: I didn’t dislike this, but I didn’t particularly like it either. The guys spend a good deal of time insulting each other toward the beginning, and I don’t find that fun. This is a story in which I think scenes from both characters’ perspectives would really have helped, especially early on. I needed to see inside of Ethan’s head--to see something other than the cold, controlled jerk he is on the outside.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews