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Commanded: A Thorned Thistle Dark Romance
At a remote Highland estate, a commanding dominant offers two broken souls sanctuary—and a chance to surrender to the darkest desires they've denied themselves.
GREYMARCH
I see what they hide the moment they arrive—Prima’s desperate need to surrender beneath her masks, Vanguard’s craving to submit hidden under all that dominance. I want to strip away every false layer and claim them both. What I don’t anticipate is how commanding them will leave me just as exposed.
VANGUARD
I hadn’t questioned who I was until I discovered the Thorned Thistle, near the estate where we’ve taken refuge. My attraction to Greymarch confuses me, and my need to protect Prima while surrendering to him terrifies me. Between them, I’m forced to accept a truth I’ve been running I crave the surrender as much as the control.
PRIMA
I’ve spent my life performing, becoming whoever others need me to be. But Greymarch sees through every mask, and Vanguard protects me like I’m worth saving. Between commanding dominance and fierce devotion, I can finally stop thinking and just feel. For the first time, I can surrender to what I’ve always craved.
The books in the Thorned Thistle series are all standalones that do not need to be read in order. Please note that the books in the Thorned Thistle series are dark romance with BDSM and menage themes.
I see what they hide the moment they arrive—Prima’s desperate need to surrender beneath her masks, Vanguard’s craving to submit hidden under all that dominance. I want to strip away every false layer and claim them both. What I don’t anticipate is how commanding them will leave me just as exposed.
VANGUARD
I hadn’t questioned who I was until I discovered the Thorned Thistle, near the estate where we’ve taken refuge. My attraction to Greymarch confuses me, and my need to protect Prima while surrendering to him terrifies me. Between them, I’m forced to accept a truth I’ve been running I crave the surrender as much as the control.
PRIMA
I’ve spent my life performing, becoming whoever others need me to be. But Greymarch sees through every mask, and Vanguard protects me like I’m worth saving. Between commanding dominance and fierce devotion, I can finally stop thinking and just feel. For the first time, I can surrender to what I’ve always craved.
The books in the Thorned Thistle series are all standalones that do not need to be read in order. Please note that the books in the Thorned Thistle series are dark romance with BDSM and menage themes.
544 pages, Paperback
Published February 23, 2026
1 person is currently reading
15 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
So dangerously dark and dirty!
Kiernan is the epitome of control - a Scottish viscount with a castle in the Highlands, a tunnel from which leads to the private club he owns with a few of his closest friends. He's a quietly efficient assassin in his day job, known by his code name Archon. Now, he's tasked with helping a fellow agent recuperate from a traumatic injury incurred on their last mission, and he decides taking Oliver, along with their coworker Ophelia, to his castle is the best plan for Oliver's recovery. All he has to do is keep his desires for both of them tightly under wraps because he's sure there's no way they could agree to the things he most deeply wants to do with them.
Oliver and Ophelia have been flirty with each other for a while, so this time together allows them the space to explore their feelings and attraction to each other. And, surprisingly, to Kiernan as well. Their quandary about what that means and how that could possibly work are soon answered by Kiernan's take-charge demeanor, opening up a whole new world for them and a whole backstory of problems for him.
This emotionally-charged romance is the best MFM romance I've ever read. The story alternates between all three POVs, with intense vulnerability and emotional depth that is rarely found in steamier romances. The intimacy is well-described and plentiful, and always tied to the heart's journey they all are taking together.
This is a longer book than usual, but there isn't a single wasted word as the pacing is perfect to keep the reader engaged from each scene to the next. Amazingly detailed, well-researched, and thoroughly entertaining from start to finish.
If you like your romances to explore the characters' more sensual natures, you won't find any better than this one. I'm eagerly anticipating reading more in this series.
Kiernan is the epitome of control - a Scottish viscount with a castle in the Highlands, a tunnel from which leads to the private club he owns with a few of his closest friends. He's a quietly efficient assassin in his day job, known by his code name Archon. Now, he's tasked with helping a fellow agent recuperate from a traumatic injury incurred on their last mission, and he decides taking Oliver, along with their coworker Ophelia, to his castle is the best plan for Oliver's recovery. All he has to do is keep his desires for both of them tightly under wraps because he's sure there's no way they could agree to the things he most deeply wants to do with them.
Oliver and Ophelia have been flirty with each other for a while, so this time together allows them the space to explore their feelings and attraction to each other. And, surprisingly, to Kiernan as well. Their quandary about what that means and how that could possibly work are soon answered by Kiernan's take-charge demeanor, opening up a whole new world for them and a whole backstory of problems for him.
This emotionally-charged romance is the best MFM romance I've ever read. The story alternates between all three POVs, with intense vulnerability and emotional depth that is rarely found in steamier romances. The intimacy is well-described and plentiful, and always tied to the heart's journey they all are taking together.
This is a longer book than usual, but there isn't a single wasted word as the pacing is perfect to keep the reader engaged from each scene to the next. Amazingly detailed, well-researched, and thoroughly entertaining from start to finish.
If you like your romances to explore the characters' more sensual natures, you won't find any better than this one. I'm eagerly anticipating reading more in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My husband may have enjoyed this book just as much as me, and he didn't read it, wink wink. Merrigan Calder is the pen name of Author Heather Slade. This is a spicier side. There are a fair number of warnings regarding what you are getting yourself into. So if you read this book and then turn around and say "I didn't expect to be getting into this spicier kinky occasionally dark story" it's your own fault, you were warned.
I knew what I was getting into and I jumped in both feet and loved it. The first half of the book deals with the budding relationship between three operatives of both MI6 and the super-secret unit 23. Those that consume (and I do mean that because I've read everything she's published) Heather Slade novels are well versed in these teams. We met these characters, Ophelia, Oliver and Kiernan in the final book of the K19 Allied Intelligence team two series. Oliver was injured during that book.
Kiernan is the Viscount of a Scottish castle and a partner in an exclusive club "The Thorned Thistle" Yeah, it's one of "those" clubs :) He brings home Oliver to recuperate after his injury as well as Ophelia as she's been "nursing" Oliver. Kiernan had underlying plans, but could he get the other two on board? Not giving the details, but one can read between the lines and figure out this is a MMF storyline.
The second part of the book is the suspense and intrigue that we all love with the K19 Franchise. Ultimately this book has a HEA, and I can't wait for the next books in the series.
I knew what I was getting into and I jumped in both feet and loved it. The first half of the book deals with the budding relationship between three operatives of both MI6 and the super-secret unit 23. Those that consume (and I do mean that because I've read everything she's published) Heather Slade novels are well versed in these teams. We met these characters, Ophelia, Oliver and Kiernan in the final book of the K19 Allied Intelligence team two series. Oliver was injured during that book.
Kiernan is the Viscount of a Scottish castle and a partner in an exclusive club "The Thorned Thistle" Yeah, it's one of "those" clubs :) He brings home Oliver to recuperate after his injury as well as Ophelia as she's been "nursing" Oliver. Kiernan had underlying plans, but could he get the other two on board? Not giving the details, but one can read between the lines and figure out this is a MMF storyline.
The second part of the book is the suspense and intrigue that we all love with the K19 Franchise. Ultimately this book has a HEA, and I can't wait for the next books in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Commanded: A Thorned Thistle by Merrigan Calder was my first book by this author—and it absolutely will not be my last.
Set on a remote Highland estate, this story pulls you into an intense, emotionally charged dynamic between three beautifully complicated characters. Kiernan is a commanding dominant who knows exactly what he’s doing—but what makes him unforgettable is the depth beneath that control. He’s not just powerful… he’s haunted, layered, and searching for redemption.
Oliver and Ophelia arrive carrying their own wounds. Oliver is forced to confront desires he’s long suppressed, torn between control and surrender. Ophelia, who has spent her life performing for others, finally finds a space where she can stop pretending and simply feel. Together, the three of them create a dynamic that is as vulnerable as it is consuming.
The writing is stunning—rich, immersive prose that builds atmosphere and emotion so seamlessly that the intimacy feels essential to the plot rather than separate from it. Every charged moment reveals something deeper about who these characters are and what they truly crave.
This is dark romance with heart, tension, and depth. Emotional, atmospheric, and unapologetically bold.
What an introduction to this world—I can’t wait to see where the Thorned Thistle takes us next.
Set on a remote Highland estate, this story pulls you into an intense, emotionally charged dynamic between three beautifully complicated characters. Kiernan is a commanding dominant who knows exactly what he’s doing—but what makes him unforgettable is the depth beneath that control. He’s not just powerful… he’s haunted, layered, and searching for redemption.
Oliver and Ophelia arrive carrying their own wounds. Oliver is forced to confront desires he’s long suppressed, torn between control and surrender. Ophelia, who has spent her life performing for others, finally finds a space where she can stop pretending and simply feel. Together, the three of them create a dynamic that is as vulnerable as it is consuming.
The writing is stunning—rich, immersive prose that builds atmosphere and emotion so seamlessly that the intimacy feels essential to the plot rather than separate from it. Every charged moment reveals something deeper about who these characters are and what they truly crave.
This is dark romance with heart, tension, and depth. Emotional, atmospheric, and unapologetically bold.
What an introduction to this world—I can’t wait to see where the Thorned Thistle takes us next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thought that this was a very clever and intriguing read. Even as someone who reads across the full spectrum of the romance genre, I found myself surprised (In the very best way), by what this book brought to the table because sometimes stories that have BDSM relationships and kink are presented in a very mellow way. Nothing is delved into too deeply, no questions are asked and it is all ok and there are no pressing fears, anxiety or risks that must be agonized over or must be weighed in the balance between the outside world and what lives in your heart. I'm very happy to say that is not the case for Kiernan, Ophilia and Oliver's romance. The depths explored here are deep and emotional, fear and anxiety take a toll on their hearts and minds even as desire burns brightly and the risks that truly couldn't be any higher and you have an astonishingly good book that has a meatiness and weight that helps it seize hold of your attention from the get-go and hold on to it tightly even once the last page has been turned. As if that isn't enough, a skillful blend of danger, action and suspense is woven into the mix that has your nerves stretched to their breaking point. Altogether, I thought it was brilliant and I cannot wait to enjoy future entries in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Holy Hotness!! This first book in the new series Thorned Thistle is off to a hot start. Merrigan Calder is the pen name for Heather Slade but now there is a dark, twisted and kinky side to the stories. Kiernan, Oliver and Ophelia worked together on the last case in the K19 Intelligence Team Two series where Oliver is hurt during the mission. Kiernan has a dark BDSM dominant side to his personality that he shares with very few individuals. He has had a rough go of it in his past but now he is taken an interest in Oliver and Ophelia.
Kiernan invites Oliver and Ophelia to his home to heal but can he keep his secret side from these two. Kiernan brings out a side and feelings in Oliver and Ophelia that neither expected. These are elite Unit 23 and MI6 operatives that are used to danger and being in control in all ways of their lives.
This will definitely have the suspense we are used to in the K19 books but now throw in BDSM, secret sex clubs and some MMF scenes for a fully rounded book. This book will keep you reading from page one and I am very excited for the next book in the series.
Kiernan invites Oliver and Ophelia to his home to heal but can he keep his secret side from these two. Kiernan brings out a side and feelings in Oliver and Ophelia that neither expected. These are elite Unit 23 and MI6 operatives that are used to danger and being in control in all ways of their lives.
This will definitely have the suspense we are used to in the K19 books but now throw in BDSM, secret sex clubs and some MMF scenes for a fully rounded book. This book will keep you reading from page one and I am very excited for the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Holy Moly, Merrigan Calder is phenomenal! This book brought the suspense and crafty writing you would expect with a new morally gray twist. Commanded is the first to release with the BDSM club Thorned Thistle partner Kiernan. Kiernan has had a tragic and challenging past that has shaped him into his persona with his majesty’s service and the true heir to Greymarch. He will try to keep Oliver and Ophelia at arm’s length for their protection but they slowly eat away at his armor. Oliver and Ophelia decide to stay with Kiernan during Oliver’s recovery. That soon morphs into new discoveries and a love story that burns with intensity. This ménage trio brought out the best in each other even when they were struggling to come to terms with the new changes and dynamics. It was amazing to see Kiernan finally open up. I could not put this book down and I am so excited to see where this series goes. If this is how the first book comes out, we are in for a fun and naughty ride!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Heather Slade writing as Merrigan Calder starts a journey on the darker, steamier, kinkier side of romance with Commanded. Let me tell you she nailed it! Kiernan, Ophelia and Oliver worked together on an investigation that ended with Oliver geing gravely injured. Consequently, Kiernan does something completely out of character; he brings them to his rural Scottish estate to stay while Oliver recovers and Ophelia supervises his recovery. Eventually, Kiernan invites them to "take a walk on the wild side" by introducing them to the BDSM lifestyle. Thus begins their journey into a menage relationship with Kiernan as their Dominant and teacher. Lots of emotions come into play, the past rises up to endanger them and Kiernan finally figures out what's been lacking in his life. Oliver and Ophelia refuse to back down or let go when he tries to protect thm by letting go. They successfully turn the tables on him and he finally understands what it's like to be truly loved and accepted.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Thorned Thistle Series started off with a bang. The story and scenes were Fantastic. I absolutely loved this story. Yes it was a book about smut but it also was a book about growth!
Oliver and Ophelia were my favorite characters. They were full of life and just fun. They grew also through the book in there relationship with each other. They let go of judgements and whatever was holding them back.
Kiernan was harder to love. His character was very straight forward and almost clinical. He had his breakthrough moment with Olivier and Ophelia which I was so happy about. However I wish we would have gotten a look at "future" Kiernan. I wanted to see his happy and carefree with Oliver and Ophelia.
This book was a five star read for me. I cannot wait for book two and Callen's story!!
Oliver and Ophelia were my favorite characters. They were full of life and just fun. They grew also through the book in there relationship with each other. They let go of judgements and whatever was holding them back.
Kiernan was harder to love. His character was very straight forward and almost clinical. He had his breakthrough moment with Olivier and Ophelia which I was so happy about. However I wish we would have gotten a look at "future" Kiernan. I wanted to see his happy and carefree with Oliver and Ophelia.
This book was a five star read for me. I cannot wait for book two and Callen's story!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the first book in this new series. The series starts out strong and give you a lot to look forward to with the rest of the characters in the future.
Kiernan, Ophelia and Olivers story drags you in from the start and doesn’t stop until the last page. If you aren’t trying to figure out who is hiding in the shadows you are wondering what the characters will do next. The growth you take with them from the start until the end is real and makes you feel part of their journey. You get to see how they grow as individuals and also partners. To say that they steam the pages is an understatement.
I have never been disappointed with this author but I love this one. It is truly my favorite to date. It is a must read for those who love exploring this world. The next book can’t get here soon enough.
Kiernan, Ophelia and Olivers story drags you in from the start and doesn’t stop until the last page. If you aren’t trying to figure out who is hiding in the shadows you are wondering what the characters will do next. The growth you take with them from the start until the end is real and makes you feel part of their journey. You get to see how they grow as individuals and also partners. To say that they steam the pages is an understatement.
I have never been disappointed with this author but I love this one. It is truly my favorite to date. It is a must read for those who love exploring this world. The next book can’t get here soon enough.
February 23, 2026
This is a fantastic book for Merrigan Calder (alternate pen name for Heather Slade) This book had it all and I mean ALL!
The main Characters are Kiernan, Oliver & Ophelia and they are Agents for the Crown, while Oliver is recovering from and incident on their last OP, Ophelia agrees to stay with him in hospital. Kiernan visits but keeps his distance.
You, dear reader, will have to read for yourself and follow the excitement and danger on every page. The emotions and actions of each character is well detailed (as always from Ms. Slade) but the details are darker and more, oh so much more than ever before.
This would have been a quick read for me, typically, but my life kept getting in the way.
Thank you Merrigan Calder for all your words. I cannot wait for the next one. HOLY MOLY!!!
The main Characters are Kiernan, Oliver & Ophelia and they are Agents for the Crown, while Oliver is recovering from and incident on their last OP, Ophelia agrees to stay with him in hospital. Kiernan visits but keeps his distance.
You, dear reader, will have to read for yourself and follow the excitement and danger on every page. The emotions and actions of each character is well detailed (as always from Ms. Slade) but the details are darker and more, oh so much more than ever before.
This would have been a quick read for me, typically, but my life kept getting in the way.
Thank you Merrigan Calder for all your words. I cannot wait for the next one. HOLY MOLY!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Commanded is the 1st book in the Thorned Thistle series. I don't see it as particularly dark, but it is a MMF romance with a power exchange theme where swords do cross and the steamy sexy times have a kinky touch. For readers unfamiliar with the stories written by the author's alter ego Heather Slade, there may be some questions about past events, the backgrounds of the main characters and some side characters, so I recommend checking out her Protectors Undercover series for that. Kiernan, Oliver and Ophelia are all accomplished agents, accustomed to quick decisions under pressure. So it was very entertaining to see them struggle with their emotions and growing feelings for each other, even as an enemy was trying to tear them apart. There's a well-deserved HEA for the throuple and I'm looking forward to catching up with them when the next member of the Thorned Thistle meets his destiny!
Want to read
February 21, 2026I enjoyed reading Commanded . It's a sexy BDSM suspense romance . Kiernan has secrets some of them are dark and twisted . Kiernan has been working with Oliver and Ophelia . Oliver was injured . Kiernan cannot fight the attraction he feels for both of them . He takes them to his highland home so Oliver can Recuperate . Kiernan tries fighting his growing need for the two . Ophelia and Oliver never experienced the BDSM lifestyle . Both find themselves attracted to Kiernan but are they ready for him and his commands . Kiernan is one intense dominant . As they explore the lifestyle danger is lurking . This story is part of a series but each story stands alone . If you enjoy a darker romance . I recommend taking the time to read this story .
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an strange book that captured my interest early on. I like my books dark and this was certainly that.
Seeing a place for sanctuary, Oliver and Ophelia call into Dom Kiernan estate, but he has interest in stripping away his guests inhibitions.
Oliver is ashamed to explore his interests with Kiernan and Ophelia just wants to give up control. The couple love each other but can't really give each other what they truly wish for but it's fear that stands in their way. Kieran is a hard man to like. Strong, bold and arrogant.
Very well done. The first by this Author but not the last. Definitely different but original also. Can't wait for more.
Seeing a place for sanctuary, Oliver and Ophelia call into Dom Kiernan estate, but he has interest in stripping away his guests inhibitions.
Oliver is ashamed to explore his interests with Kiernan and Ophelia just wants to give up control. The couple love each other but can't really give each other what they truly wish for but it's fear that stands in their way. Kieran is a hard man to like. Strong, bold and arrogant.
Very well done. The first by this Author but not the last. Definitely different but original also. Can't wait for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! I’ve just started getting into dark romance but what I like about this series is its dark as in morally grey and with lots of action too. This is another pen name for Heather Slade who I love to read but darker. With this new series you have her intricate plots you expect from the K19 series with suspense but with dark romance with MMF and not just MF. We met these characters in the last book I’m pretty sure but they are featured here in this series. I’m going to go back and read that book, but you don’t have too but it is a very good read too.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rate - 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Suspense - 3.5/5 🤯🤯
Spice - 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Merrigan has definitely set the pace for a new pen name. I thought I had a favorite genre when I started reading romance - but my goodness - this book is…. WOW. I knew going into this book that things were going to be different but my, my, my! I devoured this book in one sitting and I literally had to be pulled away from my tablet to take a break. LOL this is on my Top TBR list for those that want a little something extra! Go ahead, you know you want to!
Suspense - 3.5/5 🤯🤯
Spice - 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Merrigan has definitely set the pace for a new pen name. I thought I had a favorite genre when I started reading romance - but my goodness - this book is…. WOW. I knew going into this book that things were going to be different but my, my, my! I devoured this book in one sitting and I literally had to be pulled away from my tablet to take a break. LOL this is on my Top TBR list for those that want a little something extra! Go ahead, you know you want to!
February 21, 2026
WOW, all I can say is that "Commanded" is the perfect title for this new series starter. Hot and steamy and full of emotion. A MMF story and where two people are trying to figure out who they really are. The connection between the three of them blossoms when Kiernan finally loses control and creates closeness which he has been ready for a long time, but unwilling to accept. "One heartbeat, one breath." The suspense intensity ramps up at the end of the book and it takes everything in their arsenal to come out on the other side with something worth everything to all of them.
Review of advance copy
This is the first full length novel from Merrigan Calder (I read her Captured novella, also excellent) and it is fantastic. The dynamic between the three main characters was riveting. There was definitely some twists I did not see coming and I absolutely loved, loved how the story ended, no spoilers, but it is so good. I cannot wait for Callen’s, Gus’s, Rafe’s, and Snow’s books!
Review of advance copy
One surprise after another. From the heat of attraction to the heartache of romance, Commanded dares to explore desire at it's darkest. Calder takes emotions through a thrilling maze of fire and ice, that at it's best is a haunting captivation.
Review of advance copy
He commands, he protects, and he saves. He finds his loves during a mission, with the Thorned Thistle club, his home in the Scottish Highlands. A special love. Thanks, Merrigan for writing an amazing story. Waiting for more.
February 27, 2026
Holy Sheetzky….Merrigan Calder has brought us one hawt, dark and suspenseful romance that will fire up your senses, open your heart and light up your soul. Grab Commanded and enjoy Kiernan, Oliver and Ophelia as they learn to love and fight for that love! ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I could not put this book down. There is lots of action and lots of steam. Great start to a new series. I highly recommend this book and this author to others.
Review of advance copy received from Author
All I can say is WOW! Great start to a new series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Breathless Masterclass in Surrender
Commanded is more than just a steamy Highland romance; it’s a visceral exploration of what happens when three "broken souls" finally drop their masks.
The tension between Kiernan, Oliver, and Ophelia is electric. Watching Kiernan strip away their "masks" to reveal their truest desires was both incredibly steamy and surprisingly moving. It’s rare to find a book that delivers this much heat while making you care so deeply for the characters' hearts.
If you love a commanding hero, complex characters, and a story about finding where you truly belong, you need this on your shelf immediately. A stunning debut!
Commanded is more than just a steamy Highland romance; it’s a visceral exploration of what happens when three "broken souls" finally drop their masks.
The tension between Kiernan, Oliver, and Ophelia is electric. Watching Kiernan strip away their "masks" to reveal their truest desires was both incredibly steamy and surprisingly moving. It’s rare to find a book that delivers this much heat while making you care so deeply for the characters' hearts.
If you love a commanding hero, complex characters, and a story about finding where you truly belong, you need this on your shelf immediately. A stunning debut!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews