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Intricate Ties #3

Sharing His Command

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Miles Bennet has spent years being told he wasn’t enough. Now, he’s ready to belong to someone who sees his worth—even when he can't see it himself. Darren Quinn is everything Miles needs: commandingly steady, unshakably certain and resolutely protective. His quiet strength and tender control ignites a passion in Miles that turns surrender into deep devotion.

As their relationship evolves from from the sanctuary of the club to the reality of home, Miles discovers not just pleasure, but a love that heals his past wounds and empowers him to embrace his true self. Yet when Darren’s world collides unexpectedly with Miles’s protective sister, secrets threaten to unravel everything. Can trust—and love—prevail when the boundaries of power, vulnerability, and acceptance are tested?

The quiet, earnest vulnerability of Heated Rivalry meets the profound healing and protective authority of a Nora Phoenix hero in this steamy, heartfelt M/M journey of surrender, second chances, and the courage to be seen.

Heat level: 5

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First published January 1, 2024

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26 people want to read

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A.E. LeMercier

40 books24 followers

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5 stars
32 (48%)
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26 (39%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Nicola Clements.
29 reviews3 followers
February 23, 2026
Another cracking book!

If I thought I couldn't love Miles and Darren anymore, I was so wrong. Each book pulls me further and further in, I'm obsessed.
I am dying to find out what's next and after reading an excerpt of book 4 I'm scared for them, but I just know they will be an infinity power couple.

Excellent writing once again <3
Profile Image for Drew H.
484 reviews25 followers
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!

It's at this point in Darren and Miles' relationship that they know who they are to each other, and it's time to start letting the outside world in. This comes in the form of introducing Darren to Miles' very protective sister, and introducing Miles to the larger kink scene outside of their 1-on-1 sessions. Both go so swimmingly, I love this space that they continue to carve out for each other. We also get some much needed background information on both Shimizu (sort of) and Sasha, which really helps to expand the world a little bit. This is really the book where you start to feel like Miles starts to feel like he's coming together, and for the most part he's correct, his rate of improving and understanding himself is amazing to see. He does also get just a little bit ahead of himself, as we see in the start of the next book that we get as a teaser at the end of this, but the up and up continues for the most part.

Thank you to GRR for a free copy of this book, this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Xanthe.
2,581 reviews52 followers
March 14, 2026
I really enjoyed getting this book as a dual POV. Book one was fully Miles, and book two was Darren. Now we get to see how each man feels, reacts and interacts in the scenes.
Now that the two men are in a committed relationship, outside of the business they met where Darren gave Miles the submission that he was in desperate need of. It just so happened that they turned out to be each other's perfect match in regards to a relationship as well.
I love the dynamic that they share. Darren is dominant, especially when it comes to his work, but it's not what he needs full time, and it turns out Miles is more than happy and willing to take that role on when needed.
It doesn't stop the negative self thoughts that Miles continues to have, even though Darren's love has lessened them but they remain rooted after such traumatic past events, alcoholism, and the breakdown of his marriage. Darren's support is everything to Miles, and it's just as true the other way. What Miles brings to Darren's life is easy to see, especially in certain scenes.
There isn't just domination and submission between them. There is care, attention, understanding and love, which gives readers something to really grab onto and enjoy.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Profile Image for Nicole.
299 reviews16 followers
March 5, 2026
Review for (Intricate Ties-3) Sharing his Command by A.E. LeMercier

Another fabulous book in this well-written BDSM romance story with ups and downs, full of Pain from Past Relationships by A.E. LeMercier. This author knows how to write a well-rounded story that has it all. Pain, romance, love, BDSM, and past relationship troubles are full of pain for both men. Dareen's work is cut out for him in this book due to the pain. Miles is in again with his ex-wife about their children and the way she wants to control him, even after he has changed and has been sober for a year now. I just wanted to slap that woman's face. She almost makes Miles do something he would regret, but in walks the man he loves, Darren. I have really enjoyed this series from book one to this one so much. I understand the lifestyle, so to say this author has written it really well is saying something. I will be going and reading more from this author. I just know I want all their books, which will take time lol.

Nicole Harvey
Profile Image for Izzy.
322 reviews26 followers
March 18, 2026
Thank you GRR for the arc!

My copy contained significantly more grammatical errors than previous books, with duplicate words, misspellings, and some sentences that ran poorly. Regardless, the story was solid.

My lower rating is primarily because the pace and plot of the book felt a bit meandering. The contents can be summarized in a few lines and some of the intimate scenes felt redundant, but that might also be because I binged it in one night to meet the deadline.

On to the next one!
Profile Image for Bear_reads_romance.
328 reviews4 followers
February 18, 2026
I can't stop thinking about these two! They way Miles helps Darren even if he thinks he's not good enough and Darren loves him. I can't wait for more of them.
Profile Image for El.
208 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 9, 2026
This third in the series might be my favorite so far! Darren and Miles were both disasters in their own way when they met as Dom and client. But now that they're officially a couple, we get to watch them going through a series of relationship firsts. As their social circles and lives begin to intermingle, we see the boys completing each other in different ways as their devotion is tested. Many of those ways involve sizzling scenes that only A.E. LeMercier can deliver!

My book 1 favorite, Sasha, makes a glorious return as well, which always adds to my enjoyment. I really like the coterie of badass women that these men have managed to surround themselves with.

Thanks to Common Goals Publishing for sending me the ARC!
Profile Image for Arcturus170.
229 reviews8 followers
March 19, 2026
I received a copy through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
4*
Enjoyed the third installment of Miles and Darren’s story. This one is different in several ways. First, the POV spends half the book with one MC, then flips back and forth. Second, the MCs are together finally, so the story focuses on deepening their relationship while they struggle with external problems. Third, Miles spends his time and energy trying to support Darren. Fourth, there’s no shibari or bondage at all, which made me sad, but the three BDSM scenes are each exciting in their own ways (*ahem* the second one, in particular).

This book has much more focus on character development. The MCs have moments of daily life together with lots of casual romance. At the same time, they face external pressures from work and family. I like that Miles steps up to these challenges and takes care of Darren. Miles’s devotion and strength shine through in this book. He sinks deeper into his submission, loving all the acts of service he can offer his dom, even outside of a scene. I really enjoyed exploring that mindset shift. There’s an emotional scene where the guys emphasize their commitment to each other. It’s sweet and intense and a bit over the top, but lovely. Really proud of Miles for enduring a particularly unpleasant surprise. He relies on his support network and talks himself through it admirably.

As with the earlier two books, the BDSM scenes in book 3 push Miles’s boundaries and strengthen his confidence. The first scene is about how he views himself, while the second scene is about how others view him at a kink event. He learns to appreciate how all of his submission reflects on Darren and finds deep satisfaction in that. Miles manages to hold control of himself in the scene and it’s damn impressive. The third scene is an important step toward balancing their relationship. I like the advice Miles receives and how much he mentally prepares himself. Darren is thrilled and overwhelmed. It makes for a great ending.

Other thoughts:
-The kink event has a heavy emphasis on objectifying Miles and I became pretty uncomfortable with the commentary. Everyone reduces him to a slab of meat, with the exception of one interaction that feels genuine. I get that Miles needs to find value in himself, but he’s so much more than the muscles. Ultimately, it’s his submission that demonstrates his character and I appreciated that part. The scene at the event is definitely thrilling and memorable.
-There’s a pretty angsty moment with Miles’s sister. Eventually, we understand why she has such strong negative sentiments. Things feel pretty out of proportion until that reveal.

Gripes:
-There are several areas in the book with repetition of full sentences or passages. While repetition can be for emphasis, that’s not my impression here. The repetition doesn’t feel intentional, but rather, an editing issue. This book published over two years ago, so it’s a bit frustrating.
-The euphemisms about two parts of the male anatomy have become tiresome and confusing. After three books, there are so many detailed erotic scenes. Everything else is spelled out in vivid pictures, except those two body parts. I had to re-read many sentences out of pure confusion about the actions described with round-about words. Save us the mental energy and please just say the words! 😂🙏

On to book 4!
1,810 reviews12 followers
April 2, 2026
The development of the relationship between Miles and Darren continues outside of the setting of the sanctuary, and is more centered on their interactions in Darren’s home. Miles is now spending more time with Darren, often staying the night, cooking for him and serving him in many ways once he gets home from work. Darren continues caring for Miles, but Miles is actively seeking more opportunities to be of service to Darren and to demonstrate his care and commitment to him and their relationship. When Darren moves them forward a big step, Miles starts to see things about himself in the way Darren sees him, and accepts his physical appearance more as a way to make Darren proud of him and to have his behavior and appearance reflect well on his beloved Dom.

There are challenges for Miles to face in this book. He has his first “public appearance” to Darren’s friends, and though apprehensive about it, he trusts and is confident in Darren’s love, able to face the event with his head held high, proud to represent his Dom and demonstrate his training. He is everything Darren could want in this situation and plays his role perfectly. Another challenge is the meeting between Darren and Miles’s sister Ashley and his sponsor Sasha. There is a rocky start, but Ashley seems okay with things for now. Then Darren is drawn back into a wicked work schedule when he has two employees off, giving Miles a chance to really care for Darren and meet his needs this time. A final challenge is an unexpected visitor who threatens to send Miles into a panic attack, but thoughts of Darren give him courage to face his challenge with calm and control.

The part that was fascinating to me is the way Darren and Miles are shifting the power and control between them, Miles learning to step in and take command to give Darren what he requests and needs as stress from work increases. It starts to give Miles a new perspective on his experiences from both sides of the power continuum, strengthening their relationship even more.

I am looking forward to the fourth book as we see Miles continuing to make growth as he gets ready to face the battle to get to see his children again. Will that happen, will it change the relationship with Darren, and if so, how, or will this missing part of Miles’s life be filled to make his newfound happiness complete? Only way to find out is read book 4, so that is next. I received an advance copy of the book for free from GRR and this is my voluntary review.
84 reviews1 follower
February 28, 2026
4.5 stars

This book continues along with Darren the master and Miles his sometimes sub.

Miles is back to work or kind of work. He is not back on the beat of being a policeman but at least he is working. He is still having no contact with his kids which is hurting his heart. He is still staying away from drinking and that has to do with his support. His sister is still on his side. His sponser is still in his life and then there is Darren. He is everything and more than Miles thinks he deserves.

Darren loves having a partner again. He wants to make it more official between them but also want to respect Miles' recovery. He wants to collar him as well as have him move in with him. However first things first he needs to meet Miles' sister. Work as gotten a little crazy for Darren they are short on men workers which means he has to cover for several of them while still doing his managing work. Luckily Miles is there to help him when he gets home.

How will the meeting between Darren and Miles' sister go? Will He learn more about Miles sponser at the met up? Will Miles ever get to see his kids? What about his exwife, does she try to see him? Will Darren finally get the roommate he wants? Will Miles get the jewelry he wants?

Off to read more
Profile Image for Xanthe.
2,581 reviews52 followers
Read
March 13, 2026
I really enjoyed getting this book as a dual POV. Book one was fully Miles, and book two was Darren. Now we get to see how each man feels, reacts and interacts in the scenes.
Now that the two men are in a committed relationship, outside of the business they met where Darren gave Miles the submission that he was in desperate need of. It just so happened that they turned out to be each other's perfect match in regards to a relationship as well.
I love the dynamic that they share. Darren is dominant, especially when it comes to his work, but it's not what he needs full time, and it turns out Miles is more than happy and willing to take that role on when needed.
It doesn't stop the negative self thoughts that Miles continues to have, even though Darren's love has lessened them but they remain rooted after such traumatic past events, alcoholism, and the breakdown of his marriage. Darren's support is everything to Miles, and it's just as true the other way. What Miles brings to Darren's life is easy to see, especially in certain scenes.
There isn't just domination and submission between them. There is care, attention, understanding and love, which gives readers something to really grab onto and enjoy.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Profile Image for Deb Kel.
2,765 reviews7 followers
March 17, 2026
This instalment deepens Miles and Darren’s relationship in a way that feels both intimate and emotionally satisfying. What begins as a dynamic rooted in control and trust gradually unfolds into something much more layered, with both characters learning what it truly means to feel safe with another person.

Miles’s journey is particularly compelling and his vulnerability is handled with care, and watching him start to recognise his own worth is quietly powerful. Darren, meanwhile, brings a steady, grounding presence that never tips into cliché; his protectiveness feels earned rather than overbearing.

The shift from the more contained club setting into everyday life adds a nice sense of progression, and with it comes just enough tension to keep things interesting without overshadowing the emotional core. The external conflict introduces some uncertainty, but the heart of the story remains firmly focused on trust, growth, and connection.

Overall, it’s a warm, character-driven romance with plenty of heat, but also a strong emotional thread running through it. A satisfying continuation that leaves you invested in where their story goes next.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
Profile Image for Ida Umphers.
5,705 reviews48 followers
March 23, 2026
I loved seeing Miles and Darren being more open with others about their relationship and how it functions. The author continues to do an amazing job of explaining and showing this type of relationship and the dual POV here lets us see it from both perspectives. It was lovely to see more of the give and take between them as well showing that while their roles in terms of dominant and submissive are preferred for each of them, there is also an ebb and flow of the intensity and who takes the lead depending on various things going on in their lives and in various situations. While their relationship is not presented as the solution to all their emotional baggage (too much in the past for that) Miles is definitely getting stronger and they continue to grow in meeting each others' needs. Cannot wait for the next book.
300 reviews3 followers
March 12, 2026
Growing pains

First of all, I love how the covers are evolving along with the characters! It’s beautiful to see both Miles and Darren facing forward in this one, both standing tall and strong, together, like the couple they are, and the couple they are becoming. It’s really beautiful, and I usually don’t pay that close attention to the covers, but this one tells the story quite well. Miles is learning how to be a functional human being, and with Darren’s guidance, and his caring hand, he’s becoming the man he wants to be. I love their journey as individuals as well as a couple, it’s fantastic. I’m so glad things are working out so well for them, and I love how they’re fulfilling their diverse roles and finding joy in them. Beautiful.
Profile Image for Abby.
336 reviews
March 23, 2026
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

I enjoyed this new volume of this story, it definitely felt like a progression of Miles and Darren’s relationship. It was so nerve racking to have Darren meet Miles’s sister, but i thought that it was handled well.
I loved getting to see Darren and Miles settle into having a strictly non-professional relationship. They support each other and clearly prioritize the other’s wellbeing. This time around Miles does have the chance to take control and take care of Darren. It was interesting to see how they both experience and appreciate being dominant and submissive with each other.
215 reviews4 followers
April 8, 2026
Review of ARC received from GRR.

It's one thing for Miles and Darren to have found each other, but another to let the rest of the world in, to whatever extent they do. Though things do go well, it's huge for Darren to meet Miles' sister and for Miles to explore further in the kink world. It's also wonderful to continue to see the pov of both men. The dynamic they share, both in and out of bed, is evolving and something they are working on to figure out together. Miles is still healing, even with Darren's care, but it is becoming a real partnership. The challenges are faced together.

One more in the series to go.
Profile Image for Keia  Cotton.
290 reviews
April 14, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️

The 3rd installment in the Intricate Ties series and I must say each book is getting better and better. I absolutely love Darren and Miles. Their bond and relationship is one for the books. The way they both just love each other out loud especially Miles since he is so new to being bi. I love the way Darren loves Miles so much he is willing to adjust his schedule and life around for him.

I hate Miles’ ex wife so much and truly hope she gets what she deserves soon. I know she’s hiding something big and I hope we get to find out what it is.
Profile Image for Malia Winger.
730 reviews48 followers
May 4, 2026
This is the third installment of what is becoming one of my new favorite series . Darren and Miles have taken steps to take their relationship into the real world. They venture out to a private party to give Darren a chance to display Miles and on another occasion they meet with Miles' sister. Their bond also deepens and they learn how to live together and manage the demands that both of their careers make on them. I am enjoying seeing them become more than just dominant and submissive and the positive effects they have on each other. I am going to be sad to see this series end.
Profile Image for Raven and Chris.
3,441 reviews29 followers
February 28, 2026
Another great installment to Darren and Miles’s story. This series is so good. Miles continues to heal and Darren is there for him every step of the way. Getting Ashley’s approval isn’t necessary for their relationship but it is an important step in helping Miles have all the support he needs to get back on his feet. They continue to grow in both their romance and their service to each other. I am loving this story and will probably have to go find the author’s backlist of books.
Profile Image for Jvles.
369 reviews
March 1, 2026
3.5 stars
This book wasn't as intense as the first was. There was a little more focus on the mundane and on our characters building a life together than on the kinky side of things - more cuddle than spice. That made it a sweet part of the journey. I felt like some more communication would have been great at times but maybe that is supposed to have happened off-page. I still like the writing and am excited to see where the story goes.
Profile Image for HappilyEverReader.
97 reviews13 followers
March 13, 2026
Book three in the Intricate Ties series finds Miles and Darren blissfully in love and working to build a life together. The story alternates between both of their POVs, which I really enjoyed. That said, this definitely isn’t a book you could jump into without reading the first two—so much of the emotional development and relationship growth happens earlier in the series.

This installment definitely brings the heat, and I loved getting to watch Miles and Darren settle into their relationship while still exploring their dynamic together. One of my favorite parts was when they attended the play party. It was a really interesting scene, and the intensity and the spice was next level.

By the end of the book, the author begins introducing some potential conflicts for Darren and Miles—Miles’s sister and ex-wife, along with Darren’s job suddenly demanding much more of his time and attention. It seems to the stage for what’s to come in the final installment.

I’ve really loved following these two and their journey, and I’m excited to see how the author wraps up their story in the last book!
847 reviews7 followers
March 11, 2026
Book three continues this wonderful relationship of Miles and Darren. Miles is trying to get back to living and Darren continues to be protective and caring. As these two confront and engage in life and its challenges, these challenges led to a stronger love and a stronger foundation. I do think you need to read the other books to get the full impact of this beautiful love story. It is a great continuation of a good story and great characters.
Profile Image for Suzanne Irving.
2,876 reviews25 followers
March 16, 2026
Their roles evolve

Miles and Darren find their roles changing as their relationship grows deeper. A.E. LeMercier does a great job again with the story of these two men. They talk about a certain kink series and how unrealistic it was, but I don’t think that this series suffers from that problem. It really gets into their relationship and how reality influences life and how you might want things to be. I like the longer format and being able to see a lot more of the story.
2,326 reviews21 followers
March 17, 2026
In this third portion of the serial, Dare and Miles have confessed their love, grown closer and Miles accepts Dare's collar. To close a circle, Miles introduces Dare to the important people in his life and they expand their trial of new things to attending an event together. It's short and steamy and builds on their relationship with Miles taking over also. I received a copy of this through GRR and this is my voluntary opinion.
Profile Image for Ana Silva.
759 reviews12 followers
March 21, 2026
This is book three in the series and I admit I liked it better than the previous ones. Darren and Miles started off messy but here we get to see how much they’ve grown and how committed they are to each other.

It’s all about them navigating what it means to be in a relationship. Blending their lives, hitting new milestones and facing the few bumps along the way.

Their bond is stronger and they’re there or each other when things get tough.
Profile Image for Judy.
272 reviews
March 17, 2026
Book 3 was so good. More of the passion and love between Miles and Darren and no miscommunication or break-up. Yay. We get to meet Miles sister and learn more about Sasha, his friend. It was great to watch their relationship grow and Miles build his confidence.Enjoy! All the steamy times were great too. Can't wait for book 4. I highly recommend this book. Emjoy!
Profile Image for b00ks_in_nature.
978 reviews14 followers
April 4, 2026
This series really needs to be read in order. I've loved the first two books, and this one was amazing. I'm a little nervous about book four after the preview but know it will work out in the end! Miles and Darren are such great characters, and we get to learn more about them outside of their developing relationship. Looking forward to seeing where this goes!
9 reviews
March 4, 2026
Oh boy how did I never realize how amazing 'established couple' romance could be? Watching these two continue to grow together in the lifestyle and work towards being each other's partners was SO rewarding (and sexy).
Profile Image for brownsoda.
308 reviews4 followers
March 17, 2026
This is the third installment of this book series. We see Miles and Darren relationship solidifying to them being a couple. A collar is accepted and saying I love you is exchanged. The D/s elements are excellent. I am interested to see were we end up.
Profile Image for A reader.
271 reviews5 followers
March 18, 2026
Darren and Miles are settling into the norm of being in a relationship outside of the club, love that we're getting both POVs this time, and how they're progressing together. Can't wait to dig in to the next book!

**ARC for honest review**
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews