U is for...

BDSM Checklist #21

by L DuBois

Mara is capable, confident—and deeply sexually submissive.



The problem? Dominant men never look past her self-assured exterior. They see control. They don’t see the woman who aches to surrender.



She’s tired of being misunderstood… and unseen.



When Las Palmas assigns her the letter U, and the glowering Master Mercer, she dares to hope the structured checklist game will finally guarantee what she needs. Until she sees their short, uninspired list. Mercer seems unimpressed—with the game and with her.



Disappointed, Mara does what she always does when she’s takes control. She proposes efficient, detached ways to complete the game requirements with minimal contact.



In that moment, she’s anything but submissive.



And that’s when Mercer truly looks at her.



He suggests a new “U” item. One not on the checklist.



Unrestrained.



No scripted scene. No careful negotiations. Just raw chemistry and the dangerous thrill of surrender without structure.



A scene without restraints can be intoxicating. It can also be reckless.



Because Mercer doesn’t just accept her submission—he demands it, pushing her to yield in ways she’s never dared to imagine.



And once she lets go, there may be no going back.

Genres: BDSM, Erotica

127 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 25, 2026

Reviews

[Rian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can't believe we are at 'U' already. I still have fun with every book that comes out. Some stories are more my cup of tea than others, and I'm still glad I didn't stop reading after book one even though I didn't find that specific one the best book. Because hey, that is kinda why this series is fun. I like that every book is different and with other 'stuff' in them, and I wish there were 100 letters instead of 26 🥲.



If you'd like to read about more books I liked, check out my Goodreads profile.

[Michelle Frater · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s a surprising number of “U” words that could apply to a BDSM scene, and while Cole’s word — unrestrained — perfectly captures the physical intensity, I couldn’t shake the feeling that unraveled was the more fitting term for what unfolded psychologically, because that’s exactly what Cole did to Mara. He saw beyond the polished, self-assured exterior that seemed to intimidate or deter other Doms. Beneath that composure was a woman quietly wrestling with doubts about her submissiveness — a woman who, at her core, longed to surrender fully and trust someone enough to take control. Some Doms might label Mara a brat, given her sharp tongue and tendency to question things. But what I appreciated most was that she voiced her concerns openly and that Cole truly listened. That dynamic of challenge and understanding added real depth to their connection. I also found the exploration of RACK (Risk Aware Consensual Kink) fascinating. Up until now, I’d only really encountered SSC (Safe, Sane, Consensual) as the guiding framework for BDSM play. The shift toward RACK introduced an edgier, more unpredictable element. There’s an undeniable thrill in the unknown or unexpected, though I’ll admit it stirred a flicker of unease as well. Still, Mara always retained her safeword, her ultimate anchor, ensuring that even in the most intense moments, consent remained firmly intact. What captivated me most was Cole’s ability to read her. He pushed her limits, often tipping the balance toward pain rather than pleasure, but each push felt deliberate, intuitive. Layer by layer, he stripped away her defenses until nothing remained hidden. The physical surrender mirrored an emotional one, and that unraveling felt raw yet liberating. My only real frustration was the single POV. As compelling as Mara’s perspective was, I would have loved insight into Cole’s thoughts and to understand what drove him, what he felt as he methodically dismantled her walls. The ending took me slightly by surprise after the intensity of their play, but it also leaves the door open, hinting at something more than just a scene and perhaps the beginning of something lasting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tima · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is female lead POV, well written, and a fast-paced, emotional, contemporary BDSM erotica with a HFN ending between Mara, the female submissive lead, and Cole, the male dominant lead assigned to her for a club game. I enjoyed Mara’s confidence that caused her to call out suspect behaviour and actions. I appreciated Cole’s understanding of her responses and enjoyed his enthusiastic exploration of her desires to help them both understand her interest and capacity in submission. I enjoyed the erotic intimate scenes that comprise the bulk of the novella. I enjoyed Mara’s composure in non-intimate time and the apparent relationship they were starting to build as the novella ended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Silke · Rating 4 out of 5]

U is for ... is the 21st novella in the BDSM Checklist series. It can be read as a standalone, but there's no background info on the game and its rules. Cole and Mara are both very strong-willed, no-nonsense characters who share lots of chemistry, which leads to some very intense and intricately described scenes. I was missing a feeling of budding romance, although there are some tender moments. The story is only told from Mara's perspective and more than once I found myself wondering about Cole's POV. The ending is happy-ish, with a HFN implied. Hopefully, we get to catch up with them in the future to see them living their HEA. I received an early copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.

[Kerry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll be honest, I am a HUGE fan of the Checklist series but for me, this isn't the best book in the series which is a shame because it could have been so much more. Mara and Mercer bring the heat, that is for sure. I think the play between them certainly is NSFW and you may need a cool wine afterwards but it feels stunted by the lack of character development, the single POV and the HFN ending that L DuBois is a master of usually. We are near the end and I know many within the series are favourites that I desperately want more of but with Mara and Mercer it felt more like one and done and that left me a bit cold......or maybe there may be more in the future??? Still a hot read but I was sad there wasn't more.

[Foodiegirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lila Dubois has done a wonderful job writing "U is for ... " This is the 21st novella in the BDSM Checklist series. There's no background info on the game and its rules in the storyline. Both characters are very strong-willed and no-nonsense. Cole and Mara's first meeting isn't the best, especially when she finds the other Doms think she's a Domme and aren't willing to scene with her. Cole and Mara share lots of chemistry, which leads to some very intense and intricately described scenes. I was missing a feeling of budding romance, although there are some tender moments. The story is only told from Mara's point of view and her own submission. Cole's provides an ending that's happy for now. Hopefully, we will get to catch up with them in the future. I loved this story.

[Cindy Palmer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome back to Las Palmas BDSM club, we're happy you're here. This time in the checklist game is "U". I love the series and have read every single book! And this one I felt a little bit let down. I love the push and pull between the FMC and MMC and with only the single POV I felt a little cheated. I want to know what Cole is thinking, where he's headed and with this one we only hear what he says to Mara. I do enjoy her internal monologue however I'd liked to have known more. I definitely always appreciate the writing of Ms DuBois as it's always so spectacularly done. This one just felt a bit flat.

[Linda Stone · Rating 4 out of 5]

U is for... by Lila DuBois is a continuation of her series about couples engaged in a kinky game based on a letter. This is a creative book about Mara and Cole as they explore the game together and Cole helps Mara decide if she is truly submissive. The situations are hot and explicit and both characters are strong. As it is a short book, there is not enough time to develop the characters enough to fully invest in them but this is the nature of these books. Just like in the game, it is an opportunity to explore a new situation and enjoy it. It was definitely entertaining.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[PugLover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mara was at the Las Palmas BDSM club where the three Overseers have instructed the members to play a game or quit the club. Mara is assigned to Master Mercer, Cole, who doesn't appear to want to play with her. Cole doesn't object to Mara exactly, he objects to being told who and what he had to do. As they play they come to understand each other more. Cole tells Mara that the other Masters think she's actually a Domme. Mara thinks the Masters could be correct, no Master wants to scene with her because she's not a true submissive. Cole goes on to try to prove her wrong.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kathi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must Love This “Letter” Series !!

Las Palmas has annoyed its membership by requiring participation in a game - or leaving the club. Mara is met with a grumpy Dom Mercer. Their U list has some hard pass items on it - then uniform. Mara was looking forward to a scene this weekend, but not with a reticent Dom. That is insulting and dangerous.


Braced with the situation, he assures her it is just his nature, not her. He also figures out just what she needs. Another steamy, emotional and entertaining episode from this terrific series.

***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****

[Judi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A heavy dose of kink and emotional catharsis

I was so happy to be back at Las Palmas BDSM club. While the scenes are hot enough melt the South Pole Mara and Cole also grab your hearts. Eighty percent of this tale is erotic play and this time it is pretty dark but the interwoven narrative from Mara brings her to life and Cole’s responses prove him a perfect Dom, at least for her. Loved this short read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book about pushing boundaries and going beyond what you think you can take. So this is not for the faint of heart. Mara holds a high-ranking position and has authority over many men, who are intimidated by her. She is about to connect with a man who is not intimidated by her, Cole. Be ready for spice that will set your ereader on fire! This is a fantastic escape read with two excellent characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A reluctance on both parts starts the weekend for Mara and Cole but they soon come to realise they match far better than they anticipated. Mara is doubting her submissiveness and Cole has heard stories about her that makes him unsure. Their dynamic is explosive and Cole uunderstands her far better than she thinks. We have to wait until the end to know their motivation and background but there is hope for the future.

[NanaX8 · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/4 ⭐️’s I’m unsure about understanding U Is For…Mara needs help in her submission, Cole believes he has figured out what she needs. As they travel the journey of their alphabet (U) will they find more than they bargained for that will be unacceptable or do they find unrestrained passion as they travel the path of pain outside of acceptance.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mercer's unique way of adding to the letter "U" verbiage in the alphabet game really put a spin on what could have been a quick book. With very few items, one of which is a hard limit for both partners, his ability to challenge her limits and show her submission made for some very steamy situations.

[Dar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my, there was some scorching heat in this story! These two clicked in ways that they shouldn’t. These two had a synergy of compatibility that took even them by surprise. He got her number pretty quickly. She settled in with him unexpectedly. Things worked, things happened, things were heated, and they simply accepted it for what it was <3

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Um, WOW!

Never a doubt in my mind that Ms. Dubois will have me in a strangle hold with her alphabet series!

She made me ache for what Mara was going through!

Cole! What an amazing Dom!
Was he ever able to read Mara!

The last scene…SWOON!

What an amazing, enlightening series!

[Laura R · Rating 5 out of 5]

These two together are hot, hot, hot! While their weekend gets off to a shaky start, they soon find their rhythm even though there aren't many items on their checklist. And Mara is surprised by what Cole tells her the other Masters think about her. That causes her to think through what it is she really wants. Loved the ending.

[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unique take on U

With just two items for U, one of which is a hard limit for both. Master Mercer and Mara don't have much to work with which lead Mercer to add to the list and unlock Mara's submission. Very unique add to the Checklist Series.

Can't wait for the next book.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Master Mercer has to get creative with his pairing, Mara, and their letter...U. The results? Holy gaucamole; Hot, Spicy and Steamy. He breaks through to her true submissive self and gives he what she's needed all the while taking what he wants. U Is For is a very quick read but it packs a wallop!

[Mylene Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is lead from Mara's point of view. Her understanding of what she needs and what she wants. And importantly what she is prepared to do to get what she wants. Good interesting read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jo-Ann Forrest · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cole must help Mara explores if she is a real submissive and along the way they find that they have chemistry. There is no real character development, but and HEA is a given for these two. Short, spicy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.