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Collars and Cuffs #6
Make Me Soar
Collars and Book Six
Anyone who frequents Collars & Cuffs knows Dorian Forrester is built for pain, including Dorian himself. But everyone has it wrong. For six years, Dorian’s chased a feeling that remains tantalizingly out of his reach. Unteachable, Dorian can take anything and everything a Dom can throw at him. Still, it’s not enough. Dorian needs… something more. Something he won’t find at Collars & Cuffs.
Dorian’s search takes him out of the safe environment he’s known for years, out of his depth, and into a realm of deep, dark trouble.
Alan Marchant has been watching Dorian with interest for a while and knows there’s more to Dorian than his label of “pain slut” suggests. When Dorian disappears, Alan and his friend Leo set out to find him. But the disoriented young man discovered cowering in a hotel room is not the Dorian they know and love. That Dorian is shattered. It’s up to Alan to pick up the pieces and show Dorian there are better ways to fly.
They may be off on a new journey together, but their destination will rock them both to the core.
Anyone who frequents Collars & Cuffs knows Dorian Forrester is built for pain, including Dorian himself. But everyone has it wrong. For six years, Dorian’s chased a feeling that remains tantalizingly out of his reach. Unteachable, Dorian can take anything and everything a Dom can throw at him. Still, it’s not enough. Dorian needs… something more. Something he won’t find at Collars & Cuffs.
Dorian’s search takes him out of the safe environment he’s known for years, out of his depth, and into a realm of deep, dark trouble.
Alan Marchant has been watching Dorian with interest for a while and knows there’s more to Dorian than his label of “pain slut” suggests. When Dorian disappears, Alan and his friend Leo set out to find him. But the disoriented young man discovered cowering in a hotel room is not the Dorian they know and love. That Dorian is shattered. It’s up to Alan to pick up the pieces and show Dorian there are better ways to fly.
They may be off on a new journey together, but their destination will rock them both to the core.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2015
131 people are currently reading
916 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Wells
160 books1,864 followersK.C. Wells lives on an island off the south coast of the UK, surrounded by natural beauty. She writes about men who love men, and can’t even contemplate a life that doesn’t include writing.
The rainbow rose tattoo on her back with the words 'Love is Love' and 'Love Wins' is her way of hoisting a flag. She plans to be writing about men in love - be it sweet and slow, hot or kinky - for a long while to come.
If you want to follow her exploits, you can sign up for her monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cNKHlT
You can stalk – er, find – her in the following places:
E-mail: k.c.wells@btinternet.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld
Twitter: @K_C_Wells
Website: https://www.kcwellswrites.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k.c.wells
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-c-w...
And for those who like things a little hotter?
There's KC's alter ego, Tantalus, who writes gay erotica.
The rainbow rose tattoo on her back with the words 'Love is Love' and 'Love Wins' is her way of hoisting a flag. She plans to be writing about men in love - be it sweet and slow, hot or kinky - for a long while to come.
If you want to follow her exploits, you can sign up for her monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cNKHlT
You can stalk – er, find – her in the following places:
E-mail: k.c.wells@btinternet.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld
Twitter: @K_C_Wells
Website: https://www.kcwellswrites.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k.c.wells
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-c-w...
And for those who like things a little hotter?
There's KC's alter ego, Tantalus, who writes gay erotica.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
June 12, 2015
~4.5~
This was a difficult book for me to read. What happens to Dorian at the beginning is so horrific, I actually had to take a break from the story to decompress.
Trigger warning:
Dorian is impulsive and standoffish. Thus far in the series, he hasn't been portrayed as a sympathetic character. When he messed with Leo and Alex in book 1, I wanted to strangle him.
It's a testament to the emotional depth of this series that Dorian grew on me. In the end, Dorian is just a lost kid who yearns to fly; he makes an impetuous, desperate choice and pays for it dearly.
Alex is a wonderful Dom for Dorian and just what Dorian needs. The connection between these men is electric. Alan is so gentle and patient with Dorian, and gives Dorian proper time to heal.
The sexy in this one is a while in coming. It wouldn't have been right otherwise. Dorian is so hurt, so broken, he needs time to just be and recover emotionally.
Alan focuses on sensual play, allowing Dorian to rediscover his senses, to learn to be patient and stay in the moment instead of trying to force himself into sub-space.
But don't be discouraged, because I promise you that when the smexy begins at around 70 percent, it comes hot and heavy, and it's very fulfilling.
This is a lovely portrayal of BDSM, and not at all what you'd expect.
That's because every couple, every contract, is different. This series has gone a long ways toward helping me understand the BDSM scene. K.C. really does her research!
Make Me Soar is well written, heartbreaking, and ultimately tender and redeeming.
I loved the ending and firmly believe in Alex and Dorian's forever.
This was a difficult book for me to read. What happens to Dorian at the beginning is so horrific, I actually had to take a break from the story to decompress.
Trigger warning:
Dorian is impulsive and standoffish. Thus far in the series, he hasn't been portrayed as a sympathetic character. When he messed with Leo and Alex in book 1, I wanted to strangle him.
It's a testament to the emotional depth of this series that Dorian grew on me. In the end, Dorian is just a lost kid who yearns to fly; he makes an impetuous, desperate choice and pays for it dearly.
Alex is a wonderful Dom for Dorian and just what Dorian needs. The connection between these men is electric. Alan is so gentle and patient with Dorian, and gives Dorian proper time to heal.
The sexy in this one is a while in coming. It wouldn't have been right otherwise. Dorian is so hurt, so broken, he needs time to just be and recover emotionally.
Alan focuses on sensual play, allowing Dorian to rediscover his senses, to learn to be patient and stay in the moment instead of trying to force himself into sub-space.
But don't be discouraged, because I promise you that when the smexy begins at around 70 percent, it comes hot and heavy, and it's very fulfilling.
This is a lovely portrayal of BDSM, and not at all what you'd expect.
That's because every couple, every contract, is different. This series has gone a long ways toward helping me understand the BDSM scene. K.C. really does her research!
Make Me Soar is well written, heartbreaking, and ultimately tender and redeeming.
I loved the ending and firmly believe in Alex and Dorian's forever.
dnf
January 19, 2025I don’t often write reviews for books I DNF, but this one made me really uncomfortable quickly, and to me, had terrible representation of BDSM. Demanding respect from an injured, abused and traumatized sub, just because you are a Dom, is not okay. These two MCs have had minimum contact before this, have never been in a relationship, have not had a scene at the club, nothing. The sub complains about the Dom stepping in and making decisions on the sub’s behalf, and instead of comfort and understanding, his (already bruised) wrist is grabbed and he is told to show respect.
Trust and respect is earned. Demanding it just because you identify as a Dom is not it.
Also, if you encounter someone injured from sexual assault, at least ask for their permission before undressing, bathing and touching them.
Trust and respect is earned. Demanding it just because you identify as a Dom is not it.
Also, if you encounter someone injured from sexual assault, at least ask for their permission before undressing, bathing and touching them.
May 19, 2018
4.5 Stars
Dorian is so jealous of other couples' happiness in Collars & Cuffs. Lately, everything for Dorian is the same. He is the pain slut but now for some time, no one could bring him the real joy. And he was jealous of seeing so much love around himself. So he decided to move on, find another club and get a fresh start, to find something to push his boundaries. Then he went to Berlin for one week, maybe he could have found what he’s seeking! But such a horrible experience he had, he was brought back so broken.
Alan was after a partner who could fill the needs in his life, he was intrigued of Dorrian for a few months but when he finally decided to approach him, he found a shattered Dorian. Alan was determined to help him, pick up the pieces and show him he could have what he wants!
This one is my favorite book in this series so far! Loved it! The first chapters were hard to read for what Dorian went through and what happened to him. But still, I enjoyed it! I was sure that I would enjoy Dorian’s story and so glad it didn’t disappoint! I liked those emotions and feelings. I loved Alan’s confidence in helping Dorian to go through his angst and showing Dorian a new way to fly!
Told in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s the sixth installment in the "Collars & Cuffs" series and it’s better if you read it in order. It’s so well-written, slow-paced but in a good way. All in all, it was an enjoyable read for me and hope you like it as well!
Dorian is so jealous of other couples' happiness in Collars & Cuffs. Lately, everything for Dorian is the same. He is the pain slut but now for some time, no one could bring him the real joy. And he was jealous of seeing so much love around himself. So he decided to move on, find another club and get a fresh start, to find something to push his boundaries. Then he went to Berlin for one week, maybe he could have found what he’s seeking! But such a horrible experience he had, he was brought back so broken.
Alan was after a partner who could fill the needs in his life, he was intrigued of Dorrian for a few months but when he finally decided to approach him, he found a shattered Dorian. Alan was determined to help him, pick up the pieces and show him he could have what he wants!
This one is my favorite book in this series so far! Loved it! The first chapters were hard to read for what Dorian went through and what happened to him. But still, I enjoyed it! I was sure that I would enjoy Dorian’s story and so glad it didn’t disappoint! I liked those emotions and feelings. I loved Alan’s confidence in helping Dorian to go through his angst and showing Dorian a new way to fly!
Told in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s the sixth installment in the "Collars & Cuffs" series and it’s better if you read it in order. It’s so well-written, slow-paced but in a good way. All in all, it was an enjoyable read for me and hope you like it as well!
May 7, 2017
It took me a long while to read this around my suddenly hectic work schedule. I think that may have played a role in why I didn't connect with this one as much as I had expected before starting. Plus, there was a slight disconnect with how Dorian overcame his grief over his situation. It was too quick to be real.
I liked Alan as a Dom, if only for the fact that the way he never did anything wrong took me a while to accept because all other Doms made one mistake or another with their subs, and that always works to give them our sympathies. It was hard to have an image of Alan in my head except for my own imagination about a male writer. I had this feeling almost throughout the book that maybe Alan should slip up one time to make him more relatable. He was just TOO right.
At the end, I did not finish the book on a happy note. I finished it, but I am seriously doubtful about the last book. There certainly was a disconnect with both the MCs. I wasn't able to be in their heads and live and breathe the scenes, which I was able to do in almost every other book in the series prior to this. It just felt fake somehow, or trying too hard. No one can recover from a tragedy such as what happened with Dorian, with BDSM scenes, which Alan never explained the purposes of before starting them with Dorian. Dorian needed more communication, not less.
As I just got reminded by reading a fellow reviewer's review, Alan's attitude about Dorian's rape did throw me for very long. I really wanted him to adjust his reaction to it. Yes, Dorian acted insensibly, but why did no one point it out to Alan, Dorian especially, that Dorian had gone there when he felt hopeless about him ever being noticed by Alan?
My original rating was 3.5. I've modified it to 2. I think that portion was exactly when I started feeling distant from both Alan and Dorian. I didn't like the way the aftermath of that mess was handled.
I liked Alan as a Dom, if only for the fact that the way he never did anything wrong took me a while to accept because all other Doms made one mistake or another with their subs, and that always works to give them our sympathies. It was hard to have an image of Alan in my head except for my own imagination about a male writer. I had this feeling almost throughout the book that maybe Alan should slip up one time to make him more relatable. He was just TOO right.
At the end, I did not finish the book on a happy note. I finished it, but I am seriously doubtful about the last book. There certainly was a disconnect with both the MCs. I wasn't able to be in their heads and live and breathe the scenes, which I was able to do in almost every other book in the series prior to this. It just felt fake somehow, or trying too hard. No one can recover from a tragedy such as what happened with Dorian, with BDSM scenes, which Alan never explained the purposes of before starting them with Dorian. Dorian needed more communication, not less.
As I just got reminded by reading a fellow reviewer's review, Alan's attitude about Dorian's rape did throw me for very long. I really wanted him to adjust his reaction to it. Yes, Dorian acted insensibly, but why did no one point it out to Alan, Dorian especially, that Dorian had gone there when he felt hopeless about him ever being noticed by Alan?
My original rating was 3.5. I've modified it to 2. I think that portion was exactly when I started feeling distant from both Alan and Dorian. I didn't like the way the aftermath of that mess was handled.
October 6, 2015
I so wanted to love this book. I've been waiting for Dorian's story, anxious for him to get his happy ending.
But this kind of ruined it for me.
But this kind of ruined it for me.
February 10, 2017
I am so disappointed. This could have been so much better. I want to cry now.
In this installment we finally get Dorian’s story. I have loved Dorian since book 1, bratty and all. And once I found out this was going to be hurt/comfort, oh yeah, my heart did a happy dance.
Dorian is looking for something, but he doesn’t know what. He goes to Berlin to push his boundaries but gets more than he bargained for. Alan and Leo come to his rescue and Alan is the one looking after Dorian after his ordeal.
It was not as I had hoped…
There is a big difference between acting like a Dom and acting like someone’s dad.
I started to get the daddy vibe with Thomas’ book.
I wasn’t too fond of that one. But because I LOVED Leo from the first book, I knew K.C. Wells could write Doms to my liking, without the daddy vibe.
But Alan was so incredibly correct, I felt as if he had no emotions. He was so boring. I just felt as if he was trying to be Dorian’s dad. And not in a fun daddy kink kind of way!
And what more can I say about Alan. Almost NOTHING. He was not described at all. Not his age, not his height, not the color of his hair or how he was built. He had no background whatsoever. He was a writer, that was it. I started to notice this after the first few pages and I was paying very close attention the rest of the book if there would be more details, but no such luck.
And what happened to Dorian in Berlin was a crime. I could not see it as a BDSM scene gone wrong, it was simply So how fast Dorian got over this was totally unrealistic. He needed counseling and not a Dom who told him after one outburst that everything would be fine and that he was almost there.
And what the heck was with Berlin being the big bad BDSM city? I have a feeling German people will not be too happy with this book. It was as if everyone in Berlin wanted to rape and murder. Well, that cannot be true.
So overall, I was very disappointed and I am still sad that Alan was who Dorian ended up with. Stupid Alan.
Such great premise….
In this installment we finally get Dorian’s story. I have loved Dorian since book 1, bratty and all. And once I found out this was going to be hurt/comfort, oh yeah, my heart did a happy dance.
Dorian is looking for something, but he doesn’t know what. He goes to Berlin to push his boundaries but gets more than he bargained for. Alan and Leo come to his rescue and Alan is the one looking after Dorian after his ordeal.
It was not as I had hoped…
There is a big difference between acting like a Dom and acting like someone’s dad.
I started to get the daddy vibe with Thomas’ book.
I wasn’t too fond of that one. But because I LOVED Leo from the first book, I knew K.C. Wells could write Doms to my liking, without the daddy vibe.
But Alan was so incredibly correct, I felt as if he had no emotions. He was so boring. I just felt as if he was trying to be Dorian’s dad. And not in a fun daddy kink kind of way!
And what more can I say about Alan. Almost NOTHING. He was not described at all. Not his age, not his height, not the color of his hair or how he was built. He had no background whatsoever. He was a writer, that was it. I started to notice this after the first few pages and I was paying very close attention the rest of the book if there would be more details, but no such luck.
And what happened to Dorian in Berlin was a crime. I could not see it as a BDSM scene gone wrong, it was simply So how fast Dorian got over this was totally unrealistic. He needed counseling and not a Dom who told him after one outburst that everything would be fine and that he was almost there.
And what the heck was with Berlin being the big bad BDSM city? I have a feeling German people will not be too happy with this book. It was as if everyone in Berlin wanted to rape and murder. Well, that cannot be true.
So overall, I was very disappointed and I am still sad that Alan was who Dorian ended up with. Stupid Alan.
Such great premise….
June 9, 2017
***3.5 Stars***
This started out amazing! Intense and emotional and gut wrenching for Dorian. He was so lost, spending so much time searching for something that was just out of his reach.
"...you being fucked. That's not affection. I've watched you, Dorian. You lose yourself and let them have you, but you don't let them in, do you? Not even your friends."
In a desperate attempt to find what he's been looking for, a bad decision puts him in a very dangerous situation and shatters his mind, body, and soul.
Alan was so patient and understanding with Dorian. He knew he needed to let Dorian heal from his ordeal. That it was going to be a difficult road, but what came on the other side had the potential to be magnificent.
There was still no sign of the Dorian he knew, and that only fueled Alan's purpose.
I want you whole again, as you were before.
Then he thought about it. No - better than before. He wanted something he hadn't seen yet.
He wanted Dorian to be happy.
As Alan and Dorian work through Dorian's issues, they grow closer...developing a level of intimacy and affection that goes beyond a D/s relationship.
I really enjoyed this book. The beginning shredded me. My heard broke for Dorian...and although we don't get the graphic details of his ordeal in Berlin, we do get glimpses of his memories from that night...and it's hard to read at times.
Unfortunately, as the book wore on, I lost the emotion and intensity. I knew that it would take time for Dorian to heal mentally from what he went through, but I feel like it happened too fast. For how broken he was when Alan found him in that dark hotel room, he sure did have a lot of epiphanies in one week's time.
I needed more of the hurt/comfort. I needed the intensity to stay around for longer than it did.
Also, it took a really long time until we're given information about Alan. He remains a bit of a mystery through most of this story. And once we get some of his background, it felt off...a bit too forced or a convenience to the direction the author wanted to go in.
One other thing....as was my issue with the first book in this series (the only other book I've read, both in this series and by this author) there tends to be an overuse of the word "boy," and in this case we can add "lad" to the list.
142 times.
That's how many times it's used in this book. That's a lot.
Though I don't think I entirely got what I was promised by the blurb, I still enjoyed the book. I loved the intimacy and trust that developed between Alan and Dorian.
I love that Dorian finally found what he was looking for, and that Alan found what he didn't even know was missing.
"How could I get this far and not know know what I really needed?"
"Dorian, what do you need right now?"
"For you to hold me. Please, Alan. Just hold me."
April 23, 2017
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars from me, what a wonderful ending to this series...at least I think it's the end, but a certain author will no doubt point me in the right direction if I've cocked it up, hehe....The author has pointed out (very nicely I might add) that there will be 8 stories in this series, so there.
I've had problems with Dorian Forrester since the first book in the series, An Unlocked Heart, which featured my favourite couple of the series, Leo and Alex. He tried to break them up, the little s**t, and nothing he did in subsequent books endeared him to me any more or made me like him...at all basically (no, I don't hold grudges, WHATEVER gave you that idea??), but he had a scene with Master Andrew in A Dance with Domination (gah!! THAT cover, swoons!!) which seemed to change (and not before time) the way he viewed things AND people at Collars and Cuffs.
To try and gain a different perspective, he trudged off to a notorious club in Berlin...and almost immediately, wished he hadn't. He was taken from the club to a sadist's home where there was a private party, and subjected to the most horrendous abuse by a gang of German guys (and I use that word loosely, guys obviously not German), and because Dorian knew no German...and I did (and I was cringing), he was unaware that they were calling him a 'plaything' and 'fresh meat', and what they did to him...well, it beggars belief that a person could do that to another human being, but of course we all know what goes on in the world....
In flew Master Leo and Master Alan to the rescue, and this is where I'll leave my review. Yes, I did use tissues KC . Yes, I can sort of understand why Dorian was like he was, thanks to his cold and unfeeling parents who threw money and possessions at him instead of love, and the tactile issue doesn't apply in our house thank goodness, cos I've always hugged my son until he's squeaking, and yes, he definitely knows he's loved.
So thanks once again KC for the ARC (big smooch!!), and from your prolific pen...and brain I might add, a new story called Trust Me (Lightning Tales) appears very shortly, and yet again, she's granted me an ARC (thank you your Highness). **happy dancing**
I've had problems with Dorian Forrester since the first book in the series, An Unlocked Heart, which featured my favourite couple of the series, Leo and Alex. He tried to break them up, the little s**t, and nothing he did in subsequent books endeared him to me any more or made me like him...at all basically (no, I don't hold grudges, WHATEVER gave you that idea??), but he had a scene with Master Andrew in A Dance with Domination (gah!! THAT cover, swoons!!) which seemed to change (and not before time) the way he viewed things AND people at Collars and Cuffs.
To try and gain a different perspective, he trudged off to a notorious club in Berlin...and almost immediately, wished he hadn't. He was taken from the club to a sadist's home where there was a private party, and subjected to the most horrendous abuse by a gang of German guys (and I use that word loosely, guys obviously not German), and because Dorian knew no German...and I did (and I was cringing), he was unaware that they were calling him a 'plaything' and 'fresh meat', and what they did to him...well, it beggars belief that a person could do that to another human being, but of course we all know what goes on in the world....
In flew Master Leo and Master Alan to the rescue, and this is where I'll leave my review. Yes, I did use tissues KC . Yes, I can sort of understand why Dorian was like he was, thanks to his cold and unfeeling parents who threw money and possessions at him instead of love, and the tactile issue doesn't apply in our house thank goodness, cos I've always hugged my son until he's squeaking, and yes, he definitely knows he's loved.
So thanks once again KC for the ARC (big smooch!!), and from your prolific pen...and brain I might add, a new story called Trust Me (Lightning Tales) appears very shortly, and yet again, she's granted me an ARC (thank you your Highness). **happy dancing**
June 9, 2015
4.5 stars
Finally! Dorian’s story. If you have read any of the Collars and Cuffs books you know Dorian’s reputation as the insatiable pain slut of the club. He is the sub whose jealousy drove him to a spiteful attempt to break up Leo and Alex in An Unlocked Heart (causing him great dislike on my part), but whose seemingly tame scene with Andrew in A Dance with Domination left him obviously shaken. I was very happy to see that Dorian is so much more than what prior glimpses showed us and K.C. Wells has managed to make me love him with Make Me Soar.
Dorian’s story is not always an easy read as his attempts to find what he has been missing out on lead him to a poor decision that will leave a permanent mark. Alan is a calm and patient man and just what Dorian doesn’t even know he needs. After watching him at the club for months, Alan swoops into Dorian’s life to save him, but is surprised to find that he needs some saving of his own as well. The two men are a seemingly perfect match not just physically, but intellectually and emotionally as well. I loved just seeing them interact day to day, learning about each other and working through their issues. There were times when I laughed and times where I cried, and I loved seeing Dorian come to realize what had been missing for him most of his life.
Throughout the series K.C. Wells has explored different aspects of BDSM beyond the bondage and pain play and again here, she has crafted a situation unique to the couple whose story is being told. It was great catching up with the other men of Collars and Cuffs, and while the majority of the story takes place away from the club, Dorian and Alan’s first scene there was so beautiful, I had to read it twice. This story can work as a standalone, you would definitely have a much greater appreciation for Dorian’s redemption having read the prior books.
An ARC of this book was provided for an honest review.
Finally! Dorian’s story. If you have read any of the Collars and Cuffs books you know Dorian’s reputation as the insatiable pain slut of the club. He is the sub whose jealousy drove him to a spiteful attempt to break up Leo and Alex in An Unlocked Heart (causing him great dislike on my part), but whose seemingly tame scene with Andrew in A Dance with Domination left him obviously shaken. I was very happy to see that Dorian is so much more than what prior glimpses showed us and K.C. Wells has managed to make me love him with Make Me Soar.
Dorian’s story is not always an easy read as his attempts to find what he has been missing out on lead him to a poor decision that will leave a permanent mark. Alan is a calm and patient man and just what Dorian doesn’t even know he needs. After watching him at the club for months, Alan swoops into Dorian’s life to save him, but is surprised to find that he needs some saving of his own as well. The two men are a seemingly perfect match not just physically, but intellectually and emotionally as well. I loved just seeing them interact day to day, learning about each other and working through their issues. There were times when I laughed and times where I cried, and I loved seeing Dorian come to realize what had been missing for him most of his life.
Throughout the series K.C. Wells has explored different aspects of BDSM beyond the bondage and pain play and again here, she has crafted a situation unique to the couple whose story is being told. It was great catching up with the other men of Collars and Cuffs, and while the majority of the story takes place away from the club, Dorian and Alan’s first scene there was so beautiful, I had to read it twice. This story can work as a standalone, you would definitely have a much greater appreciation for Dorian’s redemption having read the prior books.
An ARC of this book was provided for an honest review.
January 15, 2025
I can think of about 100 better ways to handle a rape victim like damn that’s crazy bro maybe we could like get dinner or something before the collar comes out. Also I don’t know how Alex became the go-to sub therapist but he really do be the glue that’s holding all these flimsy ass relationships together by being the only person with common sense like give my boy a day off or pay him some commission
I do think I’m giving up on the rest of this series because my expectations weren’t even that high but damn I have better things to do with my time than read mediocre (borderline bad) BDSM novels.
I do think I’m giving up on the rest of this series because my expectations weren’t even that high but damn I have better things to do with my time than read mediocre (borderline bad) BDSM novels.
October 31, 2015
Orgasm denial does nothing for me, but other than that, the sex was wicked hot.
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
June 22, 2015
I've read almost every book in this series, except #5, and Dorian was a side figure in all the ones I've read, his reputation as the club's resident pain slut preceding him. He's the one who tried to break up Leo and Alex in book 1, and the same sub who featured in a rather tame Shibari scene with Andrew Barrett in book 4.
I didn't think much of Dorian until that scene, to be honest. I didn't like him because of what he tried to do in book 1, and then basically adopted the same kind of attitude that is displayed by most people in the club - a well-known member, but really not important.
Then this book came out, and I realized that I had maybe misjudged Dorian. Or perhaps the author had me exactly where she wanted me - unprepared to see beyond what Dorian shows the world, and the people in the club.
But K.C. Wells took me beyond my preconceived notions and changed my mind about Dorian.
At the root of everything, Dorian is looking for the one thing that has eluded him all his life - love. Growing up with parents who gave him everything he asked for, except that what he needed most, namely affection, hugs, physical closeness, Dorian doesn't realize that his search for 'more' is based on what he missed during his formative years.
And his search for that elusive high, that 'more', leads him to a club in Berlin, and to something beyond what he signed up for, something that breaks a piece in him completely.
The details of this experience don't make for an easy read, and it took me a few tissues to get past those, some deep breaths, and the hope that the author would lead Dorian on a journey to find what he's been looking for.
She didn't let me down.
Alan Marchant, a Dom who is also a member at the club, rescues Dorian with Leo's help and takes him home.
I was immensely moved by the tenderness that Alan displays toward Dorian, how he calms the sub who's retreated mostly into himself, how he finds ways to show Dorian that the egregious mistake made in Berlin doesn't have to define him, how he can grow beyond it.
Of course, it's not all smooth sailing, and there are setbacks, but I could see Dorian grow into the man he was meant to be, under Alan's kind and strong hands and deeds. They talk a lot, haltingly at first, but their communication grows with each day and week they spend together, and both men learn about the other. Dorian reveals some of his closely held secrets, and eventually allows Alan to see all of him. Alan is more open from the beginning, but it's very clear from the start that he is utterly focused on Dorian's well-being, on healing him, and showing him that he understands what the sub really needs.
A lot of the book takes place outside of the club, necessary to let Dorian heal and bond with Alan, but there was one scene, when Dorian first returns to the club with Alan by his side, that made me cry - it was so gorgeously done.
The ending was perfect for them. I loved how Alan found a way to turn the brand into something new, something meaningful and how Dorian was finally able to fly.
With emotional writing, and with excellent and accurate descriptions of true BDSM, this author took these characters (and this reader) on an amazing journey. I love how the author explores various aspects of the lifestyle in her books, and showcases the variety that it offers, without ever getting preachy about it, without ever making the uninitiated feel dumb, but clarifying what the letters mean, what it is about. Because Dorian's experience in Berlin prohibits any further exploration of pain, Alan has to be creative to come up with ways to draw the sub out of his shell, to take him beyond what happened to new heights, and that was wonderfully done. The men are so very suitable to each other, not only as far as the lifestyle is concerned, but also from a personality and intellectual perspective.
I loved that Dorian was able to not only learn to soar, as the title indicates, but also found a fulfilling occupation outside of it. His character was thoroughly explored, and there were nuances to him that I didn't expect. K.C. Wells took him from this insecure and unfulfilled sub to someone to be proud of himself, someone who had gone through hell and come out stronger on the other side.
Some of the scenes in this book made me choke up because they were simply beautifully emotional.
I think this may be my favorite C&C book to date. I hope there'll be more.
** I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
I didn't think much of Dorian until that scene, to be honest. I didn't like him because of what he tried to do in book 1, and then basically adopted the same kind of attitude that is displayed by most people in the club - a well-known member, but really not important.
Then this book came out, and I realized that I had maybe misjudged Dorian. Or perhaps the author had me exactly where she wanted me - unprepared to see beyond what Dorian shows the world, and the people in the club.
But K.C. Wells took me beyond my preconceived notions and changed my mind about Dorian.
At the root of everything, Dorian is looking for the one thing that has eluded him all his life - love. Growing up with parents who gave him everything he asked for, except that what he needed most, namely affection, hugs, physical closeness, Dorian doesn't realize that his search for 'more' is based on what he missed during his formative years.
And his search for that elusive high, that 'more', leads him to a club in Berlin, and to something beyond what he signed up for, something that breaks a piece in him completely.
The details of this experience don't make for an easy read, and it took me a few tissues to get past those, some deep breaths, and the hope that the author would lead Dorian on a journey to find what he's been looking for.
She didn't let me down.
Alan Marchant, a Dom who is also a member at the club, rescues Dorian with Leo's help and takes him home.
I was immensely moved by the tenderness that Alan displays toward Dorian, how he calms the sub who's retreated mostly into himself, how he finds ways to show Dorian that the egregious mistake made in Berlin doesn't have to define him, how he can grow beyond it.
Of course, it's not all smooth sailing, and there are setbacks, but I could see Dorian grow into the man he was meant to be, under Alan's kind and strong hands and deeds. They talk a lot, haltingly at first, but their communication grows with each day and week they spend together, and both men learn about the other. Dorian reveals some of his closely held secrets, and eventually allows Alan to see all of him. Alan is more open from the beginning, but it's very clear from the start that he is utterly focused on Dorian's well-being, on healing him, and showing him that he understands what the sub really needs.
A lot of the book takes place outside of the club, necessary to let Dorian heal and bond with Alan, but there was one scene, when Dorian first returns to the club with Alan by his side, that made me cry - it was so gorgeously done.
The ending was perfect for them. I loved how Alan found a way to turn the brand into something new, something meaningful and how Dorian was finally able to fly.
With emotional writing, and with excellent and accurate descriptions of true BDSM, this author took these characters (and this reader) on an amazing journey. I love how the author explores various aspects of the lifestyle in her books, and showcases the variety that it offers, without ever getting preachy about it, without ever making the uninitiated feel dumb, but clarifying what the letters mean, what it is about. Because Dorian's experience in Berlin prohibits any further exploration of pain, Alan has to be creative to come up with ways to draw the sub out of his shell, to take him beyond what happened to new heights, and that was wonderfully done. The men are so very suitable to each other, not only as far as the lifestyle is concerned, but also from a personality and intellectual perspective.
I loved that Dorian was able to not only learn to soar, as the title indicates, but also found a fulfilling occupation outside of it. His character was thoroughly explored, and there were nuances to him that I didn't expect. K.C. Wells took him from this insecure and unfulfilled sub to someone to be proud of himself, someone who had gone through hell and come out stronger on the other side.
Some of the scenes in this book made me choke up because they were simply beautifully emotional.
I think this may be my favorite C&C book to date. I hope there'll be more.
** I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
June 8, 2015
First off, thanks to K.C. for the ARC!
It's no secret I enjoy a good love story. When that love story can include some BDSM, I'm almost always the first person to grab for it. I've read all the other books in this series and enjoyed them quite a lot. This one though? This one is the best of the bunch. And the BDSM? Really, it's not what you might think.
In the beginning of the book, I wondered where it would go. There is one point, a turning point I guess, where it could have gone one of many directions. It had me all tangled up inside. I was so nervous... and I should not have been. Instead of going a route so many authors may go, K.C. takes a path that had me not putting the book down until I finished it. There's a quiet way the story works through issues that were difficult to know about. I appreciated not having to live them, so to speak, because it was hard enough just to know it happened.
I've been waiting for this story for a long time. Dorian was the one sub I'd been really eager to read about. His confusion and determination over how to get what he wanted and so yearned for, leading him to make bad choices, continuing to be unhappy, and ultimately feeling alone, was something I was eager to see explored. Dorian finding the right person at the right time to show him his worth, show him love and affection, and help him fly. That was something I really wanted to see.
I fell in love with Dorian. He's sweet nature. His kindness. His vulnerability.
Then there is Alan. Alan has this ability to be calm in terrible situations. He's so strong and sure... it was a joy to see his interactions with Dorian. As much as this story was about Dorian, it was also about Alan finding what he needed. Not just in a sub, but in a companion. Someone he could care for and love.
I loved the feeling through the whole book. It's a fun ride and so sweet. I had a few happy tears and some sad, and in the end, I found that when the book ended I had a huge smile on my face.
It's no secret I enjoy a good love story. When that love story can include some BDSM, I'm almost always the first person to grab for it. I've read all the other books in this series and enjoyed them quite a lot. This one though? This one is the best of the bunch. And the BDSM? Really, it's not what you might think.
In the beginning of the book, I wondered where it would go. There is one point, a turning point I guess, where it could have gone one of many directions. It had me all tangled up inside. I was so nervous... and I should not have been. Instead of going a route so many authors may go, K.C. takes a path that had me not putting the book down until I finished it. There's a quiet way the story works through issues that were difficult to know about. I appreciated not having to live them, so to speak, because it was hard enough just to know it happened.
I've been waiting for this story for a long time. Dorian was the one sub I'd been really eager to read about. His confusion and determination over how to get what he wanted and so yearned for, leading him to make bad choices, continuing to be unhappy, and ultimately feeling alone, was something I was eager to see explored. Dorian finding the right person at the right time to show him his worth, show him love and affection, and help him fly. That was something I really wanted to see.
I fell in love with Dorian. He's sweet nature. His kindness. His vulnerability.
Then there is Alan. Alan has this ability to be calm in terrible situations. He's so strong and sure... it was a joy to see his interactions with Dorian. As much as this story was about Dorian, it was also about Alan finding what he needed. Not just in a sub, but in a companion. Someone he could care for and love.
I loved the feeling through the whole book. It's a fun ride and so sweet. I had a few happy tears and some sad, and in the end, I found that when the book ended I had a huge smile on my face.
October 22, 2022
This is my absolutely favorite M/M Romance series. I read the first 5 books, several times, on Hoopla and when they didn't get the rest of the series, I bought them. I will more than likely buy the first 5 so I will have them at my reading beck and call. I love the characters and their attitudes with their partners, their friends and the way they operate their club, Collars and Cuffs. This book...as are the first 5 in one way or another... is about finding self-respect, learning to recognize and deal with your mistakes, self-discovery, and learning that you are worthy to love and be loved. The story is beautiful just for watching the relationship between Alan and Dorian evolve. Even though there are 5 books ahead of this one I have never felt lost or confused about the characters or story lines. Good thing because I ALWAYS read out of order. Book 1 probably should be read first just to get a sense of how different this BDSM club is from all others, and to meet Leo and Thomas the owners and manages of the club. In reading this series out of order I would have to say that all of the books work perfectly well as a stand-a-lone.
July 18, 2016
4.5 Stars - Written
So we are finally to the point in the “Collars and Cuffs” Series where we are going to find out what makes Dorian, the troubled submissive tick. I have to say I went into this book not knowing what to expect. I had some negative feelings toward Dorian, I admit it. I thought he was a bratty submissive who needed a strong Dom to keep him in check. Luckily the author knew better and she brought Dorian a Dom, Alex, who is patient, kind, loving and still Dominant. This is exactly what Dorian needs and after you find out his backstory you will totally understand.
This book is one that you have to totally be invested in as it is full of backstory and other emotional groundwork that the author really does an excellent job. The sexy times are plentiful once they get started and they are hot as ever so be prepared! I really enjoyed this book. I have to admit that I was wrong, Dorian is a very emotional and loving guy–he just needed the right man to make him soar!
In this book we get to see the guys from the club and get a brief catch up on whats going on.
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*Review Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
So we are finally to the point in the “Collars and Cuffs” Series where we are going to find out what makes Dorian, the troubled submissive tick. I have to say I went into this book not knowing what to expect. I had some negative feelings toward Dorian, I admit it. I thought he was a bratty submissive who needed a strong Dom to keep him in check. Luckily the author knew better and she brought Dorian a Dom, Alex, who is patient, kind, loving and still Dominant. This is exactly what Dorian needs and after you find out his backstory you will totally understand.
This book is one that you have to totally be invested in as it is full of backstory and other emotional groundwork that the author really does an excellent job. The sexy times are plentiful once they get started and they are hot as ever so be prepared! I really enjoyed this book. I have to admit that I was wrong, Dorian is a very emotional and loving guy–he just needed the right man to make him soar!
In this book we get to see the guys from the club and get a brief catch up on whats going on.
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*Review Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
June 7, 2015
Ever since I discovered the Collars and Cuffs series I've watched Dorian. At various points throughout the series his behavior has left me livid, disgusted, suspicious, with pity, curious, and most recently, concerned. Make Me Soar is Dorian's story and what a ride it was! There were times I simply had to turn off my mouse and walk away from the computer because I knew what was coming was going to be hard to read and I needed to prepare myself. Dorian's growth throughout the book was beautiful. Watching him discover himself and realize that people actually cared about him had me in tears more than once. Additionally I can't say enough about Dom Alan Marchant who was pure and simply a good man, an amazing Dom and everything that Dorian needed. Additionally, it was great fun to catch up with old friends from previous Collars and Cuffs books, I love the support system they have. I admire how the author has crafted this fantastic series and engendered a cast of characters that I love and continue to care about. Trusting Thomas has always been my favorite Collars and Cuffs book but I have to admit it is now tied with Make Me Soar. A remarkable addition to a beloved series.
June 28, 2015
I'm still enjoying this series. I found this story appealing due to Dorian's confusion. I liked the way he didn't fully grasp what he was looking for sexually. He thought he wanted one thing, and his desperate need to reach for the satisfaction he thought was there but just out of reach, took him into a dark and horrendous place. What Dorian experiences isn't pleasant and includes but it's the start of his journey of discovery. Alan made a perfect partner for Dorian and I enjoyed the way their relationship developed.
June 19, 2016
*peaks out from behind kindle*
Ah. Well. Um…Let’s just get this out of the way, shall we? Other people are going to like this book. Other people are going to love this book. Other people are not me.
Sorry.
*goes back to hiding behind kindle*
It was not a bad book, I’ll admit. In fact when I started it I had very high hopes for the story and the characters. The whole pain slut who is not really a pain slut thing really drew me in. And heaven knows it has been ages since I read a good BDSM story, so I felt I was long overdue to enjoy a little kink.
I didn’t get very far into the book before I realized that I was going to have a problem. See, I have only read one other book in this series (An Unlocked Heart) and while I was told that these books can be read as standalone. Yeah. No. The plot is pretty well contained, and in that it works as a stand alone, but there is so much character stuff happening with Dorian before this book even begins that I felt out of my depth from nearly the first chapter. The catalyst for many of Dorian’s actions happen in other books in this series, and I had a hard time understanding why Dorian was doing these rather reckless things because I never got to see the reason for his change of desire/attitude.
So my number one recommendation: if you are going to read this book, read the other ones first. I have no doubt that my enjoyment of this story would have increased quite a bit if I had the chance to get to know Dorian as his story took shape.
But even discounting my lack of connection with Dorian, I have one big, huge, ginormous issue with this story: Dorian should never have gotten into a relationship right after he was basically tortured in Berlin. Not without, at the very least, also going into some type of therapy. And no, I do not count ‘well I took some psychology in uni so I’m totally qualified to handle this situation’ as good enough. Not from Dorian. Not from Alan. There needed to be an uninvolved third party somewhere in helping Dorian’s mental health issues, especially with this kind of relationship.
It was barely over a week–-the dude can barely sit down, he was still so injured from his time with those assholes–-and Alan really thinks that Dorian is in a sane place to be dictating terms and conditions? After being tied down, branded, and raped–-does Alan insist that Dorian see a doctor, or that he get tested? Or that he see a therapist? No, what he does is move Dorian to his home, take his wallet, and then basically restrict his movements.
In a healthy Dom/sub relationship I would have no problem with ‘rules’ portion of the relationship–-but here?…yeah, that seemed like the exact opposite of a good idea. Alan keeps saying he wants to be the one in charge of Dorian, and yet his actions tend to show a decided lack of effort on his part.
I just couldn’t enjoy the growing romance, when all I could think is that this is a horrible way to have and maintain a relationship. No matter how vanilla or kinky. So while I found several good points (I liked Dorian’s friend and some of the plain relationship stuff between Alan and Dorian was fun) at the end of the story I was left scratching my head.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Ah. Well. Um…Let’s just get this out of the way, shall we? Other people are going to like this book. Other people are going to love this book. Other people are not me.
Sorry.
*goes back to hiding behind kindle*
It was not a bad book, I’ll admit. In fact when I started it I had very high hopes for the story and the characters. The whole pain slut who is not really a pain slut thing really drew me in. And heaven knows it has been ages since I read a good BDSM story, so I felt I was long overdue to enjoy a little kink.
I didn’t get very far into the book before I realized that I was going to have a problem. See, I have only read one other book in this series (An Unlocked Heart) and while I was told that these books can be read as standalone. Yeah. No. The plot is pretty well contained, and in that it works as a stand alone, but there is so much character stuff happening with Dorian before this book even begins that I felt out of my depth from nearly the first chapter. The catalyst for many of Dorian’s actions happen in other books in this series, and I had a hard time understanding why Dorian was doing these rather reckless things because I never got to see the reason for his change of desire/attitude.
So my number one recommendation: if you are going to read this book, read the other ones first. I have no doubt that my enjoyment of this story would have increased quite a bit if I had the chance to get to know Dorian as his story took shape.
But even discounting my lack of connection with Dorian, I have one big, huge, ginormous issue with this story: Dorian should never have gotten into a relationship right after he was basically tortured in Berlin. Not without, at the very least, also going into some type of therapy. And no, I do not count ‘well I took some psychology in uni so I’m totally qualified to handle this situation’ as good enough. Not from Dorian. Not from Alan. There needed to be an uninvolved third party somewhere in helping Dorian’s mental health issues, especially with this kind of relationship.
It was barely over a week–-the dude can barely sit down, he was still so injured from his time with those assholes–-and Alan really thinks that Dorian is in a sane place to be dictating terms and conditions? After being tied down, branded, and raped–-does Alan insist that Dorian see a doctor, or that he get tested? Or that he see a therapist? No, what he does is move Dorian to his home, take his wallet, and then basically restrict his movements.
In a healthy Dom/sub relationship I would have no problem with ‘rules’ portion of the relationship–-but here?…yeah, that seemed like the exact opposite of a good idea. Alan keeps saying he wants to be the one in charge of Dorian, and yet his actions tend to show a decided lack of effort on his part.
I just couldn’t enjoy the growing romance, when all I could think is that this is a horrible way to have and maintain a relationship. No matter how vanilla or kinky. So while I found several good points (I liked Dorian’s friend and some of the plain relationship stuff between Alan and Dorian was fun) at the end of the story I was left scratching my head.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
August 21, 2016
No, just no!
Warning: Spoilers ahead (maybe)!
Dorian is a regular at Collars and Cuffs and known for being a pain-slut. However he have never reached subspace, and not one of these so-called dedicated, experienced Doms at the club have caught that.
Alan is 'new' at Collars and Cuffs. He has been checking Dorian out, but haven't approached him for reasons unknown.
Dorian tired of not getting what he wants, decides to try his luck at the more extreme clubs in Berlin. He tells Pietro, but swears him to secrecy, and off he goes.
What follows is assault pure and simple! People with triggers be ware that there is scat 'play', branding, rape and dub-con (??)!
Pietro is worried and ends up telling Alan and Leo at the club where Dorian is, and off they go to rescue Dorian.
When they find him he is not well, but instead of going to the police they bring him home. Alan moves into Dorian's place for a few days, and when Dorian finally tells Alan what happened, Alan thinks: "Okay, I will offer him a contract! My MAGIC Dom skills will cure all."
NO! No no no, you do not take a rape victim and place him in another situation where he does not have sovereignty over his own body or mind, under A WEEK after the rape!
This is where I threw in the towel... If they had taken him to the police and/or therapy to get him some professional help, and given him time to figure out what does not work for him in the club, I would have kept reading, but THIS... No, just no!
Warning: Spoilers ahead (maybe)!
Dorian is a regular at Collars and Cuffs and known for being a pain-slut. However he have never reached subspace, and not one of these so-called dedicated, experienced Doms at the club have caught that.
Alan is 'new' at Collars and Cuffs. He has been checking Dorian out, but haven't approached him for reasons unknown.
Dorian tired of not getting what he wants, decides to try his luck at the more extreme clubs in Berlin. He tells Pietro, but swears him to secrecy, and off he goes.
What follows is assault pure and simple! People with triggers be ware that there is scat 'play', branding, rape and dub-con (??)!
Pietro is worried and ends up telling Alan and Leo at the club where Dorian is, and off they go to rescue Dorian.
When they find him he is not well, but instead of going to the police they bring him home. Alan moves into Dorian's place for a few days, and when Dorian finally tells Alan what happened, Alan thinks: "Okay, I will offer him a contract! My MAGIC Dom skills will cure all."
NO! No no no, you do not take a rape victim and place him in another situation where he does not have sovereignty over his own body or mind, under A WEEK after the rape!
This is where I threw in the towel... If they had taken him to the police and/or therapy to get him some professional help, and given him time to figure out what does not work for him in the club, I would have kept reading, but THIS... No, just no!
March 10, 2018
This was my absolute FAVORITE in the series!! This couple was honest, sincere and so hot together. I loved the communication and support they had for each other and their close friends turned out to be a real pleasure as well. In my opinion this was a phenomenal read!! Truly a joy to read 👍😀
June 23, 2015
This book reminded me of why I fell in love with this series.
July 19, 2022
Dorian es denominado en el club el "pain-slut" capaz de soportar las mas increibles y fuertes demostraciones de dolor que cualquier otro sub en el Club. Ahora ninguno de los Doms con los que ha hecho escenas lo han querido para mas, y eso lo hace sentir defectuoso. Asi que decide ir a Berlin a un Club con fama de extremo, lo que no espera es ser violado multiples veces y abandonado en su hotel. Menos mal que su ausencia del Club fue notada, y Leo y Alan fueron a buscarlo, curarlo y ayudarlo a regresar. Ahora solo tiene que ver si puede dejar su pasado atras y aprender de sus errores.
Alan ha sido un Dom desde que tiene memoria, pero sus metodos son mas psicologicos que fisicos. Dorian no le ha llamado la atencion desde que entro en el Club, pero despues que hizo aquella escena con Andrew, no deja de pensar que hay mucho mas debajo de ese sumiso que solo la etiqueta de "pain-slut". Asi que cuando desaparece, y Leo y el lo consiguen herido en el hotel en Berlin, no puede evitar pensar que su deber es ayudarlo a sanar, y sobre todo ayudarlo a descubrir quien es el verdadero Dorian.
Dom y sub, entraran en una relacion basada fuertemente en los sentimientos, Alan convencido que debe ayudar a Dorian a descubrir quien es realmente y a superar el incidente de Berlin. Dorian con la necesidad de sentirse querido y protegido. Ambos poco a poco comenzaran a verse como algo mas que Dom y sub, solo dependera de ellos acepar si pueden eso, ademas de novios y amantes.
Es un libro que realmente esperaba, queria saber mas de Dorian, su historia, su pasado, su vida, entender un poco mas por que era como era, y aqui el autor lo supo explicar bastente bien. Ademas, lo emparejo con un Dom nuevo, ligado mas a la parte emocional de la union Dom-sub, lo que parecia ser el mejor camino para alguien como Dorian. Asi que el autor logro una historia con mucho drama sentimental, mucha instrospeccion y mucho contacto intimo que no incluia solo escenas eroticas, sino tambien pequenos gestos, que llego a el libro a ser mas romantico que erotico, dandole a la serie un giro no esperado.
Es cierto que poco a poco los libros de la serie se han vuelto cada vez menos centrados en el BDSM y mas en el romanticismo de "Cambio de poder", pero por la forma como se estan manejando los personajes, me parece que ha sido la mejor decision del autor. Estos dos protas han tenido una de las quimicas mas poderosas de la serie, hasta ahora.
Asi que si, es una serie que vale la pena totalmente, por la evolucion de los personajes, ademas de la evolucion de las tramas de cada libro, ahora vamos con el ultimo publicado, esperando que sea un buen final de la serie.
Alan ha sido un Dom desde que tiene memoria, pero sus metodos son mas psicologicos que fisicos. Dorian no le ha llamado la atencion desde que entro en el Club, pero despues que hizo aquella escena con Andrew, no deja de pensar que hay mucho mas debajo de ese sumiso que solo la etiqueta de "pain-slut". Asi que cuando desaparece, y Leo y el lo consiguen herido en el hotel en Berlin, no puede evitar pensar que su deber es ayudarlo a sanar, y sobre todo ayudarlo a descubrir quien es el verdadero Dorian.
Dom y sub, entraran en una relacion basada fuertemente en los sentimientos, Alan convencido que debe ayudar a Dorian a descubrir quien es realmente y a superar el incidente de Berlin. Dorian con la necesidad de sentirse querido y protegido. Ambos poco a poco comenzaran a verse como algo mas que Dom y sub, solo dependera de ellos acepar si pueden eso, ademas de novios y amantes.
Es un libro que realmente esperaba, queria saber mas de Dorian, su historia, su pasado, su vida, entender un poco mas por que era como era, y aqui el autor lo supo explicar bastente bien. Ademas, lo emparejo con un Dom nuevo, ligado mas a la parte emocional de la union Dom-sub, lo que parecia ser el mejor camino para alguien como Dorian. Asi que el autor logro una historia con mucho drama sentimental, mucha instrospeccion y mucho contacto intimo que no incluia solo escenas eroticas, sino tambien pequenos gestos, que llego a el libro a ser mas romantico que erotico, dandole a la serie un giro no esperado.
Es cierto que poco a poco los libros de la serie se han vuelto cada vez menos centrados en el BDSM y mas en el romanticismo de "Cambio de poder", pero por la forma como se estan manejando los personajes, me parece que ha sido la mejor decision del autor. Estos dos protas han tenido una de las quimicas mas poderosas de la serie, hasta ahora.
Asi que si, es una serie que vale la pena totalmente, por la evolucion de los personajes, ademas de la evolucion de las tramas de cada libro, ahora vamos con el ultimo publicado, esperando que sea un buen final de la serie.
February 26, 2016
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
4.5 Stars
Re-read on audio
It’s almost a year ago that I first read Make Me Soar and looking back at my review there is very little that has changed in how I feel about this book.
Dorian and Alan remain one of my favourite couples from the Collars and Cuffs series. The story is much darker than KC’s usual writing and has a huge impact on the reader from the start as Dorian is tortured whilst blindly searching for that elusive ‘something more’. It’s funny how a character such as Dorian, who has been a bit of a pain in the ass during the series, was so completely misunderstood by everyone. The Dom’s at the club, the subs he serves alongside and the readers were all fooled into believing one thing when actually the complete opposite was true, even Dorian himself was fooled and the price for that was heavy.
For a more detailed review have a look at my thoughts from a year ago see below
Narration Review:
I’ve listened to Nick J Russo narrate quite a few books now and he is always a pleasure to listen to. When a narrator is easy to listen to it only adds to the story and brings the characters to life.
The latest visit to Collars and Cuffs sees Dorian finally getting his story. For anyone familiar with the series Dorian is a pain slut and not always a nice person. He has been through most of the club Dom’s and still hasn’t found what he is looking for. His yearning for a contract, for a lover, for that feeling that is just out of his reach causes him to make a stupid decision and he finds himself alone in a BDSM club in Germany.
Alan Marchant joined the club as a Dom about 18 months ago and in that time has had scenes with quite a few of the subs but never Dorian. He has however been watching Dorian closely especially after he saw the sub with another Dom and things didn’t quite end as expected. At Leo’s surprise wedding he finally makes the decision to approach Dorian but sadly he is too late. Dorian is already in Germany by the time Alan gets himself together and when it becomes apparent Dorian has got himself in trouble Alan ends up going on a rescue mission. What he finds bundled up in a hotel room doesn’t resemble the bratty sub he has come to know.
Dorian has been tortured in the worst possible way and Alan makes a snap decision that it will fall to him to put him back together again.
Of all the books in this series I think this one has the biggest hurt. When we finally get to see who Dorian really is and what he really wants you can’t help feeling like your heart breaks a little. Alan is the perfect person to give it to him as he is the only person in a long time who actually sees the real Dorian but after what happens in Berlin he may have left it too late. As the facts come out you see the true and horrific torture that Dorian survived and the very real damage that he will have to live with forever.
Dorian isn’t the only one who has to come to terms with a painful past if these two men are to succeed. Although Alan’s pain is very different and from long ago it still lingers. It isn’t something he ever talks about to anyone but as their bond grows and they start to trust each other he finds he can share his secrets and his fears and unburden himself.
As often happens with KC Wells books the epilogue is epic and is everything the characters and the reader deserves after such a harrowing journey.
4.5 Stars
Re-read on audio
It’s almost a year ago that I first read Make Me Soar and looking back at my review there is very little that has changed in how I feel about this book.
Dorian and Alan remain one of my favourite couples from the Collars and Cuffs series. The story is much darker than KC’s usual writing and has a huge impact on the reader from the start as Dorian is tortured whilst blindly searching for that elusive ‘something more’. It’s funny how a character such as Dorian, who has been a bit of a pain in the ass during the series, was so completely misunderstood by everyone. The Dom’s at the club, the subs he serves alongside and the readers were all fooled into believing one thing when actually the complete opposite was true, even Dorian himself was fooled and the price for that was heavy.
For a more detailed review have a look at my thoughts from a year ago see below
Narration Review:
I’ve listened to Nick J Russo narrate quite a few books now and he is always a pleasure to listen to. When a narrator is easy to listen to it only adds to the story and brings the characters to life.
The latest visit to Collars and Cuffs sees Dorian finally getting his story. For anyone familiar with the series Dorian is a pain slut and not always a nice person. He has been through most of the club Dom’s and still hasn’t found what he is looking for. His yearning for a contract, for a lover, for that feeling that is just out of his reach causes him to make a stupid decision and he finds himself alone in a BDSM club in Germany.
Alan Marchant joined the club as a Dom about 18 months ago and in that time has had scenes with quite a few of the subs but never Dorian. He has however been watching Dorian closely especially after he saw the sub with another Dom and things didn’t quite end as expected. At Leo’s surprise wedding he finally makes the decision to approach Dorian but sadly he is too late. Dorian is already in Germany by the time Alan gets himself together and when it becomes apparent Dorian has got himself in trouble Alan ends up going on a rescue mission. What he finds bundled up in a hotel room doesn’t resemble the bratty sub he has come to know.
Dorian has been tortured in the worst possible way and Alan makes a snap decision that it will fall to him to put him back together again.
Of all the books in this series I think this one has the biggest hurt. When we finally get to see who Dorian really is and what he really wants you can’t help feeling like your heart breaks a little. Alan is the perfect person to give it to him as he is the only person in a long time who actually sees the real Dorian but after what happens in Berlin he may have left it too late. As the facts come out you see the true and horrific torture that Dorian survived and the very real damage that he will have to live with forever.
Dorian isn’t the only one who has to come to terms with a painful past if these two men are to succeed. Although Alan’s pain is very different and from long ago it still lingers. It isn’t something he ever talks about to anyone but as their bond grows and they start to trust each other he finds he can share his secrets and his fears and unburden himself.
As often happens with KC Wells books the epilogue is epic and is everything the characters and the reader deserves after such a harrowing journey.
February 5, 2017
This was solid 4 star - a good plot (hurt/comfort and recovery are draws of mine) and two well done men. I did think Dorian healed up quickly from what was done - and that there might have been some additional support via therapy that he needed or could have benefited from. Drawing out the healing timeframe would have drastically helped this book - like making it a month, 2 months, etc to really let us feel like Dorian is healed enough to consent to a new relationship. The thing that tempered this for me (and didn't make me DNF) is that he understood the role he played in what happened. Doesn't make it right, not an excuse - but part of his growth was in understanding the choices he was making, the things he was not seeing, were contributing factors. When you own what happened (that doesn't mean it's your fault or that guilt or responsibility lies a certain place) then you can change how you see things. I don't think everyone needs therapy - and it's not a panacea nor a cure all for everyone either -- but certainly here I suspect it would have helped. I was surprised that the all knowing Leo did not see this, however. He is so portrayed as the sort of all knowing Dom that I expected him to be more a factor here.
The BDSM was fine - and enjoyable and different than what i expected. I do still feel like in these books the men are isolated from everything else - other than the club and maybe one external friend they live in a world of their own and I have a hard time connecting at times because of it. I know that's the focus and on purpose it just isn't something that pushes these to amazing for me.
(initial thoughts: I am enjoying it but epic fail IMHO on the use of too many "A" names and "D" names. Even in the reviews half the people say Alex instead of Alan for Dorian! Then you have Andrew. Damian, Darren and Dorian are also too close. It's just very confusing when reading these books.)
The BDSM was fine - and enjoyable and different than what i expected. I do still feel like in these books the men are isolated from everything else - other than the club and maybe one external friend they live in a world of their own and I have a hard time connecting at times because of it. I know that's the focus and on purpose it just isn't something that pushes these to amazing for me.
(initial thoughts: I am enjoying it but epic fail IMHO on the use of too many "A" names and "D" names. Even in the reviews half the people say Alex instead of Alan for Dorian! Then you have Andrew. Damian, Darren and Dorian are also too close. It's just very confusing when reading these books.)
July 19, 2020
DNF @ 77%
I’ve determined that K.C. Wells’ books just don’t work for me. While this can technically be read as a standalone, I felt like I was dropped into the middle of an existing story and given no context, no backstory, no development, or information about the characters. The club was not explained, Dorian’s complicated history with everyone wasn’t explained, and we got next to no details about Alan. I still have no idea how old these men are other than a rough guess that Dorian is in his late 20s and Alan is late 30s. The reader is given no insight into what either character looks like or more than a brief look into their past. The only thing I really learned about Alan is that he’s a writer. As for Dorian, events in his past and his complicated history with various people are discussed, but a new reader wouldn’t be able to follow it very well as it was written assuming the reader has read the entire series. I haven’t, so I felt like I was missing the significance of some things.
The writing style isn’t the greatest either. It feels like the author is leading you through the plot on a leash, laying out all the “aha” moments in plain sight, instead of these revelations being artistically woven throughout the story. I also didn’t care for the way the Berlin situation seemed to be wrapped up in a bow and forgotten about. I’m sorry but Dorian would have needed a lot more help and therapy than Alan comforting him after one outburst of anger. It was unrealistic and misleading to the reader. The steam was also lacking and I found much of it rather boring.
Standalone - Other books reviewed within series:
Book 1: An Unlocked Heart → DNF @ 70%
I’ve determined that K.C. Wells’ books just don’t work for me. While this can technically be read as a standalone, I felt like I was dropped into the middle of an existing story and given no context, no backstory, no development, or information about the characters. The club was not explained, Dorian’s complicated history with everyone wasn’t explained, and we got next to no details about Alan. I still have no idea how old these men are other than a rough guess that Dorian is in his late 20s and Alan is late 30s. The reader is given no insight into what either character looks like or more than a brief look into their past. The only thing I really learned about Alan is that he’s a writer. As for Dorian, events in his past and his complicated history with various people are discussed, but a new reader wouldn’t be able to follow it very well as it was written assuming the reader has read the entire series. I haven’t, so I felt like I was missing the significance of some things.
The writing style isn’t the greatest either. It feels like the author is leading you through the plot on a leash, laying out all the “aha” moments in plain sight, instead of these revelations being artistically woven throughout the story. I also didn’t care for the way the Berlin situation seemed to be wrapped up in a bow and forgotten about. I’m sorry but Dorian would have needed a lot more help and therapy than Alan comforting him after one outburst of anger. It was unrealistic and misleading to the reader. The steam was also lacking and I found much of it rather boring.
Standalone - Other books reviewed within series:
Book 1: An Unlocked Heart → DNF @ 70%
June 8, 2015
The Collars and Cuffs series is a favourite of mine so when a new one comes out I have really high expectations of K C Wells.
Make Me Soar shoots straight to the top of the list of best book in the series so far and believe me when I say that Trusting Thomas really takes some beating.
Dorian and Alan meet properly under devastating circumstances that have a huge impact on the prospect of a possible D/s relationship. However, their story takes us on an emotionally charged journey and I found some of Dorian's experiences left me bereft and raw. Alan is a wonderful influence but the way in which their relationship moves forward is neither typical or predictable.
This was a real page turner that had me holding my breath and left me cursing at times but also had incredible moments of joy. I loved the familiarity of the other characters and the setting and also enjoyed plenty of hot sexy, sensual interaction. It was everything I could have wished for and so much more. KC always puts so much effort into ensuring her writing is accurate and honest; down to earth yet also captivating and thoroughly engaging. Loved it....
Make Me Soar shoots straight to the top of the list of best book in the series so far and believe me when I say that Trusting Thomas really takes some beating.
Dorian and Alan meet properly under devastating circumstances that have a huge impact on the prospect of a possible D/s relationship. However, their story takes us on an emotionally charged journey and I found some of Dorian's experiences left me bereft and raw. Alan is a wonderful influence but the way in which their relationship moves forward is neither typical or predictable.
This was a real page turner that had me holding my breath and left me cursing at times but also had incredible moments of joy. I loved the familiarity of the other characters and the setting and also enjoyed plenty of hot sexy, sensual interaction. It was everything I could have wished for and so much more. KC always puts so much effort into ensuring her writing is accurate and honest; down to earth yet also captivating and thoroughly engaging. Loved it....
May 9, 2016
Yay! Finally! Dorian's story! And it was awesome!
February 20, 2023
YES, I knew Dorian's story was going to be my favourite.
I loved "Make Me Soar" with my whole heart.
It's gut-wrenching, and sweet and sexy and emotional. Seeing Dorian finally get everything he's always subconsciously wanted, all the love and affection he deserves, after everything he's gone through, was absolutely priceless. It even made me tear up, many, many times.
Alan was his perfect counterbalance, and although he isn't my favourite Dom (yes, Leo still owns my heart), I appreciated him: the previous Doms in this series are quite similar to each other, and quite annoying at times, so him being so sweetly sadistic and wonderfully protective was an absolute, unexpected bonus.
The first half of this book was, quite easily, a five star read: I loved it so much. The angst was precisely my cup of tea: it's dark and emotional and painful, and I felt for Dorian so damn much.
The second half, while I loved it very much, wasn't my favourite and I was kind of expecting some sort of resolution: trauma doesn't go away as easily as it was depicted, and I kind of hoped it would resurface in some way because, although I loved seeing Dorian find his feet again, I would have loved it even more if his traumatic experience in Berlin would have been addressed and dealt with in a more believable way.
Anyway, I still loved this book, and Dorian and Alan's relationship was truly lovely.
I wasn't sure I was going to continue with this series (it's no secret I have been impatiently waiting for Dorian's book since the first time his troublemaker, closed-off self appears), but I think I'll just go ahead and finish it off: I'm curious about the next book, since younger Dom/older sub has become a favourite trope of mine, and well, I'll inhale all the Alex/Leo and Dorian crumbs I can get.
I loved "Make Me Soar" with my whole heart.
It's gut-wrenching, and sweet and sexy and emotional. Seeing Dorian finally get everything he's always subconsciously wanted, all the love and affection he deserves, after everything he's gone through, was absolutely priceless. It even made me tear up, many, many times.
Alan was his perfect counterbalance, and although he isn't my favourite Dom (yes, Leo still owns my heart), I appreciated him: the previous Doms in this series are quite similar to each other, and quite annoying at times, so him being so sweetly sadistic and wonderfully protective was an absolute, unexpected bonus.
The first half of this book was, quite easily, a five star read: I loved it so much. The angst was precisely my cup of tea: it's dark and emotional and painful, and I felt for Dorian so damn much.
The second half, while I loved it very much, wasn't my favourite and I was kind of expecting some sort of resolution: trauma doesn't go away as easily as it was depicted, and I kind of hoped it would resurface in some way because, although I loved seeing Dorian find his feet again, I would have loved it even more if his traumatic experience in Berlin would have been addressed and dealt with in a more believable way.
Anyway, I still loved this book, and Dorian and Alan's relationship was truly lovely.
I wasn't sure I was going to continue with this series (it's no secret I have been impatiently waiting for Dorian's book since the first time his troublemaker, closed-off self appears), but I think I'll just go ahead and finish it off: I'm curious about the next book, since younger Dom/older sub has become a favourite trope of mine, and well, I'll inhale all the Alex/Leo and Dorian crumbs I can get.
July 12, 2015
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
Number six in the Collars and Cuffs series, in this one, Dorian finally got his own story. The resident pain slut of the Collars and Cuffs BDSM club wasn’t a very likeable character in the first few books, especially when he tried to break up Alex and Leo in An Unlocked Heart.
Any time a scene at the club called for a masochistic sub, Dorian was there, but Dorian was never affected enough by the scenes to be able to enter subspace, and that’s something he dearly wants. He finally decides he’s had enough of the club and heads to Berlin to a club that he’s heard about on the Internet— a club where he can likely get the kind of pain that will make him soar. But what he gets is far from what he wanted.
Thankfully, Alan Marchant, a Dom who has been watching Dorian for months and assessing Dorian’s readiness to try a short-term contract with him, is willing to drop everything and find Dorian when he fails to report in to his friend Pietro. Leo goes with him, and they search the club where they knew he’d been headed until they finally find someone who knows where he is. But, the broken, beaten, and bleeding young man they find is far from the proud submissive they knew.
Dorian is shattered, not only physically, but emotionally as well, and seeing him that way makes Alan either want to pound a wall, or hold Dorian close, or both. With Leo’s help, Alan tends to Dorian’s wounds, and from that moment on, Doran is Alan’s. Alan takes him to his home to recuperate, and as Dorian begins to come out of the early stages of grief over what happened, Alan discusses a short-term contract and promises Dorian that he will be able to make Dorian soar if Dorian is able to put his complete trust in his Dom.
It seems that Dorian, labeled a pain slut, and now branded by the men who brutalized him, has only ever really needed to be loved and nurtured and Alan can see that clearly. At first shying from the sensation of touch, Dorian becomes used to Alan’s touches, hugs, and kisses. The story moves in a totally unexpected direction, at least it was unexpected to me, but a direction which makes perfect sense and is actually beautifully on target for Dorian.
I came to really love him, and I enjoyed the relationship that developed between Dorian and Alan just as much as I loved the partnering of Alex and Leo, and Thomas and Peter. This is one of my top favorite stories of the series as the author uncovers the layers of Dorian’s personality and of Alan’s past and the relationship that most influenced his life.
I highly recommend this series to all lovers of M/M romance, BDSM, and a story with a very special and well-deserved HEA.
4.5 stars
Number six in the Collars and Cuffs series, in this one, Dorian finally got his own story. The resident pain slut of the Collars and Cuffs BDSM club wasn’t a very likeable character in the first few books, especially when he tried to break up Alex and Leo in An Unlocked Heart.
Any time a scene at the club called for a masochistic sub, Dorian was there, but Dorian was never affected enough by the scenes to be able to enter subspace, and that’s something he dearly wants. He finally decides he’s had enough of the club and heads to Berlin to a club that he’s heard about on the Internet— a club where he can likely get the kind of pain that will make him soar. But what he gets is far from what he wanted.
Thankfully, Alan Marchant, a Dom who has been watching Dorian for months and assessing Dorian’s readiness to try a short-term contract with him, is willing to drop everything and find Dorian when he fails to report in to his friend Pietro. Leo goes with him, and they search the club where they knew he’d been headed until they finally find someone who knows where he is. But, the broken, beaten, and bleeding young man they find is far from the proud submissive they knew.
Dorian is shattered, not only physically, but emotionally as well, and seeing him that way makes Alan either want to pound a wall, or hold Dorian close, or both. With Leo’s help, Alan tends to Dorian’s wounds, and from that moment on, Doran is Alan’s. Alan takes him to his home to recuperate, and as Dorian begins to come out of the early stages of grief over what happened, Alan discusses a short-term contract and promises Dorian that he will be able to make Dorian soar if Dorian is able to put his complete trust in his Dom.
It seems that Dorian, labeled a pain slut, and now branded by the men who brutalized him, has only ever really needed to be loved and nurtured and Alan can see that clearly. At first shying from the sensation of touch, Dorian becomes used to Alan’s touches, hugs, and kisses. The story moves in a totally unexpected direction, at least it was unexpected to me, but a direction which makes perfect sense and is actually beautifully on target for Dorian.
I came to really love him, and I enjoyed the relationship that developed between Dorian and Alan just as much as I loved the partnering of Alex and Leo, and Thomas and Peter. This is one of my top favorite stories of the series as the author uncovers the layers of Dorian’s personality and of Alan’s past and the relationship that most influenced his life.
I highly recommend this series to all lovers of M/M romance, BDSM, and a story with a very special and well-deserved HEA.
4.5 stars
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