Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Intricate Ties #4

Reclaimed by His Command: From the Edge of Ruin to Joy: A Protective MM Romance

Rate this book
One year sober. One year stronger. One year closer to the edge.

Miles Bennet’s recovery was supposed to be his ticket back to his children. Instead, his ex-wife has used it as a weapon, twisting his progress into a new kind of torment. When a soul-crushing setback sends Miles spiraling toward a bar and a double whiskey, he has one choice drown in his past or reach for the man who holds his tether.

For Darren Quinn, loving Miles means being the iron-willed authority Miles needs when his own self-control fails. Through a journey of punishing catharsis and absolute surrender, Darren proves that his "Safe Authority" is the only thing that can pull Miles back from the brink.

But as a mysterious benefactor offers a final, miraculous chance at custody, the stakes reach a fever pitch. To reclaim his family, Miles must do more than just survive; he must commit his life, his body, and his soul to the man who saved him. From a surprise proposal to the permanent ink of a lover’s mark, Miles is ready to prove that he isn't just a recovering addict—he is a man Reclaimed by His Command.

A raw, high-heat MM BDSM romance that blends the searing chemistry of Rachel Reid’s Heated Rivalry with the tender, restorative hurt/comfort of Roan Parrish.

123 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 11, 2026

2 people are currently reading
19 people want to read

About the author

A.E. LeMercier

39 books18 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
20 (47%)
4 stars
20 (47%)
3 stars
2 (4%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Nicola Clements.
16 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 24, 2026
As a very thankful ARC reader I would like to thank this beautiful author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book.

I have just come across this author and this series, when I tell you I binged it....it's no word of a lie.

The 2 MMC are the very very best couple, the stories are emotional and as always with this author in this series....it is healing.

The 4th book has just solidified my belief that not all romances have to have sadness, never ending broken hearts, and plot twists.

Miles and Darren are now on a different journey together, no spoilers as I want everyone to get absorbed into my two adorable men, ahhhhh I have really taken them into my heart!

Personally I have learnt more about their world and understand it a bit better, all thanks as to how easily the author has introduced it from the very first book.

I never want to stop reading about my favourite dom and sub couple, they are actual life.

All in all.....a fantastic, emotional, happy and exquisite edition to this series.

Roll on book 5♥️♥️😍♥️♥️
2,256 reviews19 followers
March 17, 2026
In this fourth part of the series, Miles and Dare seek to have it all. Miles tests his sobriety and pursues custody of his children. Miles and Dare make a permanent commitment and Dare gifts Miles with a desired suspension. This books gives a satisfying feeling in a longed for outcome for them. Their connection only grows with their trust and love for each other as Miles gives the ultimate gift of himself to Dare's satisfaction. I received a copy of this through GRR and this is my voluntary opinion.
Profile Image for Yvonne.
57 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 1, 2026
In book number 4, the author captivated me from the very beginning.

Daren and Miles stole my heart.

The powerful Daren, who loves Miles with all his heart and supports him in everything that comes his way.

And the beautiful Miles, who experiences so much, but increasingly realizes that Daren is there for him.

I recieved an ARC for an honest review
Profile Image for Xanthe.
2,567 reviews50 followers
March 28, 2026
**Please read the trigger warnings for this book**

This is such a great continuation of the series. Miles and Darren have found their place, with each other. The perfect match - in all aspects of their relationship. Their BDSM relationship moves to new heights as they share new experiences and it becomes such an important aspect of their lives as soon as we hit the first chapter of the book.
There are some tough topics hit upon in this book, that Miles has lived through. Darren is his constant strength and support, and the way that their relationship deepens and evolves brings happiness to them both and their future. I loved the bigger emotional component in this book, and the other, important people in their lives also show up for the big moments, sharing in their happiness.
Miles' story line is huge in this book, showcasing what he has experienced and the hands of others, lived through alone, and continues to battle with. Darren and his domination has provided the best source of power in submission for Miles and it's a beautiful thing to read.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Profile Image for Arcturus170.
222 reviews8 followers
March 19, 2026
I received a copy through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
3.8*
Enjoyed the fourth book about Miles and Darren. This book is again different from the previous ones as it focuses on Miles’s past, his triggers, his ex-wife, his children, and his job. Also, the POV switches pretty frequently between the MCs, which works well for the story.

The book begins with a harrowing scene of emotional turmoil that triggers Miles’s desire for alcohol. The follow-up scene at home starts with a rationale that makes sense, but quickly devolves into a BDSM scene that feels shocking and extreme in places. It’s one of the only BDSM scenes in the series that I would flag as problematic. To me, it felt like a full conflict of interest and a misuse of authority. I felt awful in the moment, and then the on page reaction acknowledges the fraught circumstances. Even though I understand that the author wrote this scene intentionally, it sat heavy in my stomach and I don’t feel like much was done to remedy the problem, aside from saying it out loud. Also, there’s a lack of aftercare for the specific physical hurt inflicted, which bothered me given the magnitude.

That said, there are other intimate scenes that stand out. Book 3 took an important step toward balancing the MCs physical relationship, and this book takes another big step. Miles thinks over and asks for what he wants. In response, Darren takes extra time to see that Miles is sure and is physically ready, which makes the scene amazing when it happens later. It’s an emotional peak in the story.❤️‍🔥 This book also brings back shibari, performed at another kink event. As happened in the last book, Miles’s devotion, deep submission, and physical control make this semi-public scene thrilling and impressive. The last scene to highlight is Miles working out under Darren’s direction. It’s intensely physical, with muscle worship and challenges to Miles’s brute strength and stamina. It’s wildly sexy, competitive, and reveals a new kink that feels very authentic to the MCs.

The divorce plot turns on a moment of deus ex machina. It’s a bit predictable, so I don’t hate it, but it still feels too convenient. On the positive side, the book invests time in the process of dealing with lawyers, gathering evidence, and preparing for confrontation. I liked the ultimate scene of conflict. Things are tightly wound, but Miles shows his strength of character. Respect for that. I don’t entirely like how the ex-wife is represented, but we also don’t know her and there’s enough ambiguity that she doesn’t come off as just a villain at the end. She has villainous moments, though. I wish we had more insight into her as a character, especially because the children are involved.

Other thoughts:
-I fully skipped the hook suspension scene. I almost never skip entire scenes, but this one just wasn’t for me. The idea drops out of the clear blue sky with no explanation or discussion and is met with unreserved enthusiasm. The follow-up chapter mentions aftercare and then the experience is never mentioned again. 🤷‍♂️
-Darren describes himself as a professional therapist in this book and that brought me to a halt. Is he actually a trained mental health professional licensed by the State of NY? I’m very skeptical of that. Or is he a professional physical therapist? That’s at least believable.
-In a way, the ending treats the children as the final piece of the puzzle, however, I think the book narrative feels incomplete because the MCs owe a very specific favor. I was surprised that it’s left hanging and not teased for the next book, at least.

I love the last chapter. Miles and Darren have checked the boxes for their HEA, with room for more adventures. I really enjoyed this series and will continue. It sounds like the next book makes a pretty big shift in the relationship dynamic. I like the cozy kink vibe because it allows so much character development and support. That said, cozy isn’t quite the right word. This series deals with heavy moments of trauma, but emphasizes healing and emotional connection through kink. Not everyone’s cup of tea, but I’m glad I read them.
Profile Image for Drew H.
481 reviews24 followers
Review of advance copy
March 7, 2026
Full disclosure, I was given the first four books by GRR (thank you!) and read them back to back to back to back like one 700-page chonkster of a book, and therefore I don't have any real sense of where things break in between books, so I'm gonna do my best here, but this run-on sentence is going at the start of each of the four reviews lmao so if I say things that don't fit this book, surprise it's from a different book!

HEY WHEN IS THE BOOK WHERE WE PUT HIS EX-WIFE THROUGH A MEAT GRINDER!!!!!!! I'M WAITING. Thankfully the teaser from the last book doesn't go as poorly as it could've, or provide a giant setback, because both options were on the table. Miles (I think correctly but technically illegally) approaches his ex-wife to try and open the conversation on modifying custody now that Miles is in a much healthier place, and she is just vicious and cruel and awful. I'm happy that they're dealing with it, getting his kids back is kind of the last big hurdle toward putting his life together (other than getting back on the detective force, but let's be so real, he's not gonna end up back there anyway). I wasn't thrilled with how it was handled, just because it was all off-camera, but I'm still glad it's happening. On the other end, I loved their kink performance in the club, that was done so well and I can't wait for that to show itself as more of their dynamic in the next book, which sounds like it's going to be absolute fire.

Thank you to GRR for a free copy of this book, this is my honest review.
78 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy
March 1, 2026
4.5 stars

I am enjoying this series but there is a character I can not stand. I know it is the point of the whole series, but I hope at some point she gets what is coming for her.

Miles and Darren are better than ever. Their homelife is going great and Miles is doing really well in his sobriety. He has now completed a year clean and thinks he should be able to go see his ex wife. He should have gone through his lawyer but since she has stopped in to see him when she was not following through with the court orders he thought he could ask to see their kids. It does not go well. She is evil and Miles ends up going to a bar.

When Darren gets the call from a desparate Miles he is able to get to him in time and hear what set him off. He gets Miles home and helps him recover back to where he feels good about himself. Darren knows they needs more help than the two of them can handle so he calls the one person he hopes can help them.

Will they get the help they need? Will Darren be able to follow through with the payment for the help? Will Darren and Miles start doing presentations in the club? Do the get teh attention of someone unexpected? Does Miles get everything he needs? What will the fallout be of their help?

Very much looking forward to their story continuing...
Profile Image for Deb Kel.
2,658 reviews7 followers
March 20, 2026
This series is not what i expected from the covers, it is so much more! Again we get an intense, emotionally charged continuation of Miles and Darren’s story, focusing on resilience, trust, and the difficult path of recovery.

Miles’ struggle feels raw and unfiltered, particularly as his progress is challenged in ways that test both his strength and his sense of self. The story doesn’t shy away from the harsher realities of addiction and relapse, but balances that weight with a clear sense of hope and forward momentum.

The dynamic between the two leads remains central, with their relationship built on structure, consent, and a deep emotional bond. The exploration of control and vulnerability is handled with care, showing how their connection functions as both an anchor and a source of healing.

There’s also a strong thread of personal growth running throughout, as past mistakes and present choices collide. The stakes feel higher here, especially with the possibility of rebuilding a family life hanging in the balance.

Overall, it’s a powerful, character-driven romance that blends heavier themes with moments of tenderness, making it a compelling addition to the series.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for HappilyEverReader.
58 reviews7 followers
March 7, 2026
** I was gifted an ARC copy of this book**

This fourth book in the Intricate Ties series might be my favorite so far! It felt like so many of the threads from the earlier books finally came together in the most beautiful way. I loved seeing Miles’ sister form a meaningful relationship with Darren, watching Miles’ awful ex-wife finally face the consequences of her actions, and—most importantly—seeing Miles reunited with his kids. When little Noah asked Darren for a piggyback ride my heart melted! Those moments made the story feel especially rewarding after everything these characters have been through.

One of my favorite parts of this installment was watching the bond and trust between Miles and Darren continue to deepen. Their relationship feels so solid and genuine, and it was wonderful to see them building a beautiful life together and truly stepping into their happy ending as a family.

I honestly thought this book might be the conclusion to their story, so I was delighted to learn that a fifth book is in the works! I’m really looking forward to spending more time with Miles and Darren and seeing what comes next for them.
269 reviews3 followers
March 15, 2026
Hard read for me, but worth it

This was the hardest one to read. Because I know what mean exes can do, I know how much harm they can cause with their twisted narrative, and how the other party is often left floundering with the destruction left behind. What I also know is what happens when you’re the injured party, what you feel you have to do to defend yourself. And what about what happens when one of the parties was abusive and horrible? What then? Yes, this didn’t quite pan out like that, and we all know Miles worked very hard in his recovery, and tries very hard to be better so he can spend time with his kids… but he’s the exception. And I felt bad for the ex, not because she was worthy of pity, but I could see myself in her in certain aspects, and those aspects weren’t quite portrayed. She was simply mean and evil, and made a mess, she wasn’t humanized enough for me, and it was hard. I’m not saying she should have been, but it felt a bit too contrived. But that’s my opinion. Good story, just my least favorite of all of them.
Profile Image for Nicole.
252 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy
March 8, 2026
Review for ( Intricate Ties-4) Reclaimed by his Command by A.E. LeMercier

This was a great ending for Intricate Ties. I know there is more in the second part with them, but I felt A.E. LeMercier did a fantastic job with this series of books. I fell in love with Darren & Miles. You see more of what his wife put him through while married than when they separated. She was evil. Darren helps to build Miles up, to feel better and stronger, and to feel better about himself. That he is deserving of Darren, his children. I can't say enough about this series. I loved Sasha, Miles' sister, and May. There were fantastic side characters. If you want a well-written BDSM love story, this book would fill that. I look forward to reading more by A.E. LeMercier. 

Nicole Harvey
Profile Image for Abby.
311 reviews
March 23, 2026
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

I loved getting to see more of Darren and Miles’s relationship! Finally meeting Miles’s ex-wife was an experience. I definitely hope we get more information for things that were mentioned about her and what she’s done to Miles. It was fun getting to see Miles’s children and I hope there are fun moments with them in the next volume.

I thought it was interesting how Darren was able to help Miles submit in a way that helped him focus on the good that he had done rather than dwelling on his perceived shortcomings. There were definitely moments where the dialogue felt a bit like therapy when it came to framing things in a way where Miles could be more objective about his experiences.
Profile Image for Suzanne Irving.
2,825 reviews24 followers
March 16, 2026
This one is more about family

This book is more about family than the earlier ones. Both Miles family and the family that Miles and Darren are building together. It was really nice to see some resolution for Miles, but I would have liked it to be a bigger part of the story. The way his former wife has affected him is such a huge part of Miles being that the scene where things come to a head seemed to be a letdown. Maybe that is just me and the way I read it and maybe it will come up again in the next book, but it just seemed too easy after everything we have learned about Miles ex wife??? Next book should be interesting. It’s a great story.
Profile Image for Amanda Winter.
954 reviews22 followers
March 28, 2026
In this installment, they’re really fighting to have it all, Miles is navigating his sobriety and pursuing custody of his kids, while their relationship deepens into something more permanent. Watching Miles grow and trust Dare more with each step was honestly really moving.

Daren completely stole my heart—strong, steady, and so deeply devoted to Miles. And Miles… he’s been through so much, but seeing him slowly realise that he’s safe, supported, and truly loved was beautiful.

Their connection just keeps getting stronger, built on trust, love, and choosing each other over and over again. This felt like a well-earned, emotional step forward for them, and I loved every minute.
Profile Image for Ana Silva.
699 reviews12 followers
March 30, 2026
This one really felt like a turning point for them. Everything gets more real. Miles is juggling his sobriety while fighting for his kids, and at the same time, what he and Dare have starts to feel solid in a forever kind of way. Seeing Miles slowly let his guard down and lean more on Dare hit hard.

Dare won me over. He’s patient, grounding, and so unwavering when it comes to Miles. And Miles, after everything he’s carried, watching him finally start to believe he deserves stability and love was incredibly powerful.

I loved how their relationship keeps evolving. It’s no longer just feelings, it’s choice, effort and trust again and again. This book felt more emotional in the best way.
Profile Image for Raven and Chris.
3,401 reviews31 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 28, 2026
Talk about the culmination of what Miles and Darren have achieved so far! Miles has trouble trusting himself but he remembers Darren always has his back. That collar is his grounding point. He isn’t alone anymore and more people support him than he realizes. This is just the next step in their journey of love and devotion and true partnership. Miles was abused in so many ways and that is coming to light. These two share so much and know they can share a family as well. So so good. I can’t wait to see where this story goes from here.
819 reviews7 followers
March 18, 2026
This series has been one of the best I have read with each book getting better. Book four continues the wonderful story of Miles and Darren. I have loved watching Miles conquer his sobriety to get his life back and hope we all have a Darren is our lives. He is supportive and always there for Miles. This one has a twist of the evil ex that is trying to keep Miles from his reconnecting with kids, but Miles is finally stronger and will triumph. A great book about finding family after much abuse and a life to trust issues. You will be moved by this book and this series.
Profile Image for Ida Umphers.
5,634 reviews48 followers
March 26, 2026
This series just continues to get better and better. Here we find Miles beginning to hope and think everything might actually work out and suddenly the rug is pulled out from under him and his recovery is used against him. At that point, we see the true strength of his bond with Darren and how they work together to allow Darren to help. Amazing detail about their scenes and the physical and emotional effects on both of them. When this series is done, it will definitely be one I'll start over and binge read from beginning to end.
Profile Image for Jvles.
360 reviews
Review of advance copy
March 2, 2026
3.5 stars
The story goes on and the fight for the kids is starting. Some issues from the past are coming up and there are some wild new experiences for Miles. The relationship settles into everyday life with all the love and care from the previous books. I felt there was a little less excitement in this book overall.
Still well-written, sweet and spicy but I was missing kind of a BANG to get me really invested.
Profile Image for brownsoda.
305 reviews4 followers
March 17, 2026
This is the final installment of Miles and Darren's story. Their relationship started out of desperation on Miles' part and want to comfort and leadership on Darren's. We have seen them deep in the D/s lifestyle and the caring and comfort beyond that. I wasn't a fan of the bitter antagonist (I don't want to give the plot away). My favourite part of this series are BDSM elements, I find that part of the writing enthralling. Overall I think this could have been one book or a duet. Decent read.
Profile Image for Izzy.
312 reviews26 followers
March 20, 2026
Thank you GRR for the arc!

A very nice resolution to this series so far. It's really satisfying how the "I'm not gay. Oh, maybe I'm bi" arc resolved, as well as seeing how far Miles has come with regards to his ex-wife. That lady needs therapy, though.

There was a preview for a 5th book, which I am unsure adds anything to a nicely resolved story, but I look forward to being wrong.
Profile Image for Judy.
260 reviews
March 20, 2026
Oh what a great HEA for these two strong and deserving men. There was no major angst and we got to enjoy them getting all of the happiness they could stand. It also had some hot scenes and as always mature, consensual BDSM. I really enjoyed reading this entire series and I will definitely be picking up more books from this author. I highly recommend this series. Enjoy!
8 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 4, 2026
This was the perfect payoff for the first three books, it was really so heartwarming and satisfying. I love how these two make each other stronger and I'm so excited that we'll get more of their story in the future!
Profile Image for A.E. LeMercier.
Author 39 books18 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 22, 2026
An emotional tale of healing through love and surrender.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
467 reviews2 followers
March 19, 2026
This was my favorite book out of the series!!! It was well worth the wait.
Profile Image for A reader.
246 reviews4 followers
March 20, 2026
Thought this was the final book for the series, but so pleased to know there will be a fifth book!

**ARC for honest review**
Profile Image for Reatha Klein.
541 reviews17 followers
March 21, 2026
I love this series. There are definitely emotional parts and triggers so be aware before you read but it is really an amazing series!
Profile Image for Sharon.
937 reviews
March 26, 2026
The relationship is doing just fine. They hit a few really tough spots. Miles' Ex has done a number on him but Darren is rock. He proves this in every way.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews