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Out For You
Gemstone
Can lies build a foundation for love?
Gemma Parquin has a secret. By day, she’s the center of her church’s social life. By night, she’s Mistress Lorelei on Kinklife, online disciplinarian of babygirls and all who need spanking, whipping, and—her personal favorite—figging.
No one suspects, until neighbor Celine Daniels comes across Gemma’s Kinklife profile. Stunned and nursing a secret crush, she creates an account under the name starrygirl793 and “catfishes” the Mistress…and gets more than she bargained for. Before she knows it, Celine is also leading a double life.
Meanwhile, Gemma’s best friend sets her up with an online dating service. Enter Stella, who is everything Celine is not—sophisticated, successful, and straightforward. But she doesn’t understand the kink Gemma holds dear.
How can Gemma trust Celine, who has lied to her? Or give up Mistress Lorelei in order to be with Stella? Should Gemma give up on love altogether, or can she still find happiness?
Gemma Parquin has a secret. By day, she’s the center of her church’s social life. By night, she’s Mistress Lorelei on Kinklife, online disciplinarian of babygirls and all who need spanking, whipping, and—her personal favorite—figging.
No one suspects, until neighbor Celine Daniels comes across Gemma’s Kinklife profile. Stunned and nursing a secret crush, she creates an account under the name starrygirl793 and “catfishes” the Mistress…and gets more than she bargained for. Before she knows it, Celine is also leading a double life.
Meanwhile, Gemma’s best friend sets her up with an online dating service. Enter Stella, who is everything Celine is not—sophisticated, successful, and straightforward. But she doesn’t understand the kink Gemma holds dear.
How can Gemma trust Celine, who has lied to her? Or give up Mistress Lorelei in order to be with Stella? Should Gemma give up on love altogether, or can she still find happiness?
181 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2015
3 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
About the author
Anastasia Vitsky
36 books150 followersCookie queen, wooden spoon lady, and champion of carbs, Anastasia Vitsky specializes in F/F fiction. She hates shoes and is allergic to leather. When not writing about women who live spankily ever after, she coordinates reader and author events such as Spank or Treat, Love Spanks, and Sci Spanks. Her favorite event is Ana’s Advent Calendar, a month-long celebration of books, community, and making a difference.
She is too afraid to watch Doctor Who, but she adores The Good Wife and anything with Audrey Hepburn. In her next life, she will learn how to make the perfect pie crust. She can be found at governingana.wordpress.com and on twitter @AnastasiaVitsky.
I love to hear from readers!
She is too afraid to watch Doctor Who, but she adores The Good Wife and anything with Audrey Hepburn. In her next life, she will learn how to make the perfect pie crust. She can be found at governingana.wordpress.com and on twitter @AnastasiaVitsky.
I love to hear from readers!
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 22, 2019
My first book by Ms. Vitsky and boy do I know how to pick 'em. For a book that deals with subjects I don't like reading about like religion and certain kinks that I'm not into, this was a surprisingly good read. I was expecting this to be a lot more explicit and BDSM focused. Instead I got a story with some multilayered and complex women living in small town Citrusville.
It was absolutely fascinating to read along as one woman came to terms with her sexuality and possible interest in kink while the other tried to separate her life as a member of the church and her role as a dominant.
One minor thing I didn't like were the 'chat' sessions. For the majority of the book they happened in chronological order only to then turn into a flashback during random moments. Aside from that the ending felt rushed. I really could have used another chapter or two before the main characters rode off into the sunset and lived kinkily ever after. Overall rating is a 3,75*
Dear Diary Moment #225
I had never heard of the term figging so what's a girl to do but google it? *facepalms* I quickly burst into laughter which of course is when my GF decides to look at my screen to see what has me laughing. She looked at me so horrified and turned so pale she almost became translucent which only made me laugh that much harder. I just didn't have the heart to tell her the local grocery store had a sale on organic ginger in case she fainted!
It was absolutely fascinating to read along as one woman came to terms with her sexuality and possible interest in kink while the other tried to separate her life as a member of the church and her role as a dominant.
One minor thing I didn't like were the 'chat' sessions. For the majority of the book they happened in chronological order only to then turn into a flashback during random moments. Aside from that the ending felt rushed. I really could have used another chapter or two before the main characters rode off into the sunset and lived kinkily ever after. Overall rating is a 3,75*
Dear Diary Moment #225
I had never heard of the term figging so what's a girl to do but google it? *facepalms* I quickly burst into laughter which of course is when my GF decides to look at my screen to see what has me laughing. She looked at me so horrified and turned so pale she almost became translucent which only made me laugh that much harder. I just didn't have the heart to tell her the local grocery store had a sale on organic ginger in case she fainted!
June 15, 2019
Honestly, I wasn't expecting a lot out of this, but wow! I'm happily surprised. I thought this would be straight-up smut, but it's not. The sex is actually very minimal and happens in the last few chapters of the book.
This is about Gemma, 35, who lives in a small town, Florida and works at her church. By night, she's Mistress Lorelai online. She wants to find a partner to love and with whom she can have a kinky relationship (she really enjoy spanking bad girls and figging). When her best friend interferes once more with her love life, Gemma finds herself dating Stella, a vanilla girl who doesn't get Gemma's kink. At the same time, she's developing a sort of relationship with Kinklife user starrygirl...unfortunately, starrygirl is hiding something and she can't let it go further than what they have online.
The book is in first person and it alternates POVs. I wasn't sure about the religious aspect of this story (I'm not religious and I usually don't care for it in the books I read), but it wasn't overbearing and it didn't bother me at all. Parts of the story is told through instant message conversations which I really enjoyed.
Even though it's not exactly what I wanted to read (why yes, I wanted some good sapphic smut!), I very much enjoyed my evening reading this. I might even reread it at some point.
This is about Gemma, 35, who lives in a small town, Florida and works at her church. By night, she's Mistress Lorelai online. She wants to find a partner to love and with whom she can have a kinky relationship (she really enjoy spanking bad girls and figging). When her best friend interferes once more with her love life, Gemma finds herself dating Stella, a vanilla girl who doesn't get Gemma's kink. At the same time, she's developing a sort of relationship with Kinklife user starrygirl...unfortunately, starrygirl is hiding something and she can't let it go further than what they have online.
The book is in first person and it alternates POVs. I wasn't sure about the religious aspect of this story (I'm not religious and I usually don't care for it in the books I read), but it wasn't overbearing and it didn't bother me at all. Parts of the story is told through instant message conversations which I really enjoyed.
Even though it's not exactly what I wanted to read (why yes, I wanted some good sapphic smut!), I very much enjoyed my evening reading this. I might even reread it at some point.
April 3, 2017
Anastasia Vitsky pulled me in.
The story is particularly interesting because Gemma and Celine interact in real life and online. We get to know the same people in two ways, through their in-person and online personas. They have a different dynamic in each setting though Celine is more consistent because she’s lovesick and unrequited in both scenarios.
Gemma is unique in that she’s heavily involved in her church while having a kink life. I think I remember too many 80s movies with this theme, i.e. elementary school teacher by day call girl by night, Flashdance and the like where the innocent / slut identity is used for titillating and feels taboo. The identities are contradictions of the same person.
Vitsky doesn’t go that route. In a fascinating turn, she is able to merge the two identities of Gemma without shame, without taboo, and without contradiction. Yes, Gemma is quite subdued in ‘real life’ but her core is still there and she has no shame in her kink identity despite keeping it on the down low. She can reconcile being Christian and a Mistress and Vitsky somehow makes this work.
Though Gemma is an experienced domme, she’s shown to have great vulnerability and sensitivity.
And though Celine is meek she shows strength and is a very sympathetic character. It’s easy to like both of them.
“Gemstone” earns the distinction of having one of my favorite lines ever said from a supporting character (Cindy) towards the end of the book. It’s a spoiler if I say it but it was unexpected and perfect.
My one complaint is that the timeline jumps around towards the end which was disorienting. I was curious why the author went that route instead of putting things in order. I don’t think it would’ve hurt the story to do so.
I really enjoyed “Gemstone”. Great read.
The story is particularly interesting because Gemma and Celine interact in real life and online. We get to know the same people in two ways, through their in-person and online personas. They have a different dynamic in each setting though Celine is more consistent because she’s lovesick and unrequited in both scenarios.
Gemma is unique in that she’s heavily involved in her church while having a kink life. I think I remember too many 80s movies with this theme, i.e. elementary school teacher by day call girl by night, Flashdance and the like where the innocent / slut identity is used for titillating and feels taboo. The identities are contradictions of the same person.
Vitsky doesn’t go that route. In a fascinating turn, she is able to merge the two identities of Gemma without shame, without taboo, and without contradiction. Yes, Gemma is quite subdued in ‘real life’ but her core is still there and she has no shame in her kink identity despite keeping it on the down low. She can reconcile being Christian and a Mistress and Vitsky somehow makes this work.
Though Gemma is an experienced domme, she’s shown to have great vulnerability and sensitivity.
And though Celine is meek she shows strength and is a very sympathetic character. It’s easy to like both of them.
“Gemstone” earns the distinction of having one of my favorite lines ever said from a supporting character (Cindy) towards the end of the book. It’s a spoiler if I say it but it was unexpected and perfect.
My one complaint is that the timeline jumps around towards the end which was disorienting. I was curious why the author went that route instead of putting things in order. I don’t think it would’ve hurt the story to do so.
I really enjoyed “Gemstone”. Great read.
June 24, 2015
This has it all. It's sweet, fun, intense, heart warming and you feel the heat on your own butt. I love the banter and the chit-chat on the internet and the way this intertwined in the story. It's such an important part of the whole story. I don't like Stella, Celine has stolen my heart. Her innocence and shyness and how she evolved. I'm not a fan of ginger but now I'm starting to doubt it. Maybe I should use it in the way that she used it. This story ended much too soon. I've enjoyed it a lot, and this is no exception, all her books are exceptionally well written. I can recommend it to everyone. Buy and read it, you're missing otherwise a very good story.
May 31, 2015
Secrets lies and sex are the perfect ingredients that make for good reading and the author outdid herself in weaving them into Gemstone.
The authors writing style is clear and crisp, she brings every detail into focus – you see the action taking place; the reader sees, hears and feels everything that takes place within the story, no matter if it’s happening in the kitchen, outside in the swimming pool or in the bedroom.
For these reasons I’m giving Gemstone four solid stars.
Over the course of time Gemma discovers that one of her online friends is baffling and mystifying – the other is forward and proud, but both women intrigue Gemma who is open and honest and often tells both that being trustworthy and truthful are requirements for anyone who desires a successful relationship with her.
After a potluck dinner with the church ladies; _ after the chili and the vodka shots have been downed, the reader discovers that Gemma owns, and frequently wears ‘spinsters’ white cotton underwear; white cotton? Tsk, tsk, tsk.
Both Celine and Stella anger and hurt Gemma but after her feelings have been acknowledged and banished the starry-eyed Gemma makes a decision; will it be Stella or Celine who captures her heart.
Discovery points: Who wears the delicate floral bra and matching undies, and
who whispers - “Oh God that feels so good - how did she learn to kiss like that?”
This reader discovered a new use for Gingerroot,and will likely never forget it. Hmmm!
The authors writing style is clear and crisp, she brings every detail into focus – you see the action taking place; the reader sees, hears and feels everything that takes place within the story, no matter if it’s happening in the kitchen, outside in the swimming pool or in the bedroom.
For these reasons I’m giving Gemstone four solid stars.
Over the course of time Gemma discovers that one of her online friends is baffling and mystifying – the other is forward and proud, but both women intrigue Gemma who is open and honest and often tells both that being trustworthy and truthful are requirements for anyone who desires a successful relationship with her.
After a potluck dinner with the church ladies; _ after the chili and the vodka shots have been downed, the reader discovers that Gemma owns, and frequently wears ‘spinsters’ white cotton underwear; white cotton? Tsk, tsk, tsk.
Both Celine and Stella anger and hurt Gemma but after her feelings have been acknowledged and banished the starry-eyed Gemma makes a decision; will it be Stella or Celine who captures her heart.
Discovery points: Who wears the delicate floral bra and matching undies, and
who whispers - “Oh God that feels so good - how did she learn to kiss like that?”
This reader discovered a new use for Gingerroot,and will likely never forget it. Hmmm!
June 1, 2015
The story grabs you and never lets go. It is like you go up the roller coaster hill and then go down forever, at least until the end. I did not want to put it down. It is funny, emotion laden and feels so real. I really liked the humor of the story; the church ladies and all the fun they had together. Gemma’s best friend who knows exactly what Gemma needs is so like the friend each of us has had at one time or another. The dual relationship (both public and secret) between Celine and Gemma is well developed and deeply intimate. Ms. Vitsky has outdone herself with this contemporary and fun story.
June 1, 2015
Another fantastic book from Anastasia Vitsky! This story offers some very memorable characters, with a love triangle that had me pulling my hair out, throw in some church ladies who like to drink jello shots :), add in some steam and not the typical fade to black scenes that this author is famous for ;), and it became a recipe for a heart warming story. No surprise that I read it straight through because frankly, I had to find out what happened next! Very nicely done once again, Ms. Vitsky!
June 4, 2015
What are *you* afraid of? Heights? Spiders? Sturdy hairbrushes? Ginger root?
In Gemstone, arguably her best book since Simple Gifts, Anastasia Vitsky gives us Gemma – a church lady in public and, as Mistress Lorelei, a kinkster in private with an understandable fear that her kink might be discovered. More importantly, Gemma’s both afraid that love may pass her by and afraid to try to love, again, because she’s been hurt before. She does love her babygirls, but ultimately they don’t love her – at least not in the way she wants them to. When her best friend convinces her to try an online, vanilla dating site Gemma meets someone who could be exactly who she is looking for. Meanwhile, as Mistress Lorelei, she’s established a similarly strong connection with a potential babygirl who, unknown to Gemma, isn’t as anonymous as she appears.
Celine loves Gemma but is afraid to tell her. Afraid of rejection, afraid Gemma doesn’t feel the same, afraid that risking telling Gemma how she feels means risking their friendship. But as a virtual babygirl Celine can get close to Gemma, understanding her kink and her life as Mistress Lorelei, and – she hopes – establishing a connection that can somehow, someway, translate into the real world.
In Gemstone Ana gives us a fun story with emotional depth, and characters we care about. The kink is there, with Ana’s trademark understated spankings, but at its core this story is Gemma’s journey towards love, a journey which requires her to deal with betrayals, gain self-awareness, and learn to forgive. It’s a journey that is well worth following.
So what *are* you afraid of? Rejection? Betrayal? Secrets uncovered? Ginger root?
In Gemstone, arguably her best book since Simple Gifts, Anastasia Vitsky gives us Gemma – a church lady in public and, as Mistress Lorelei, a kinkster in private with an understandable fear that her kink might be discovered. More importantly, Gemma’s both afraid that love may pass her by and afraid to try to love, again, because she’s been hurt before. She does love her babygirls, but ultimately they don’t love her – at least not in the way she wants them to. When her best friend convinces her to try an online, vanilla dating site Gemma meets someone who could be exactly who she is looking for. Meanwhile, as Mistress Lorelei, she’s established a similarly strong connection with a potential babygirl who, unknown to Gemma, isn’t as anonymous as she appears.
Celine loves Gemma but is afraid to tell her. Afraid of rejection, afraid Gemma doesn’t feel the same, afraid that risking telling Gemma how she feels means risking their friendship. But as a virtual babygirl Celine can get close to Gemma, understanding her kink and her life as Mistress Lorelei, and – she hopes – establishing a connection that can somehow, someway, translate into the real world.
In Gemstone Ana gives us a fun story with emotional depth, and characters we care about. The kink is there, with Ana’s trademark understated spankings, but at its core this story is Gemma’s journey towards love, a journey which requires her to deal with betrayals, gain self-awareness, and learn to forgive. It’s a journey that is well worth following.
So what *are* you afraid of? Rejection? Betrayal? Secrets uncovered? Ginger root?
January 13, 2016
What a happy surprise this book turned out to be! It had a few things that I don't always like or that could have gone poorly (shifting first person perspectives, instant messaging conversations, jumping timelines), but they all work well for me. This is one of those books that I'm not sure how to categorize--is it erotic if there's a bunch about spanking but almost no sex? I don't even care. I really liked it.
December 3, 2015
I just didn't like this story. Not at all. I didn't connect with the main characters, and I found them just nothing special.
January 18, 2016
A very very acquired taste - not my cuppa at all.
Not a romance. Not even really erotica. Certainly difficult to put this one on a shelf.
For the record - am not giving a low score just because it wasn't to my taste:
My enjoyment: 1/5
Quality of writing & story: 3/5
So I've split the difference.
Not a romance. Not even really erotica. Certainly difficult to put this one on a shelf.
For the record - am not giving a low score just because it wasn't to my taste:
My enjoyment: 1/5
Quality of writing & story: 3/5
So I've split the difference.
June 7, 2015
The place is a little town somewhere in Florida. If anything I would love to live there, because the people there are such a friendly and adorable lot. They actually care about each other in a very life-affirming way. Watching these wonderful ladies in their daily chatter, being so understanding and tender, made this a very beautiful and marvelous place, filled with the most awesome people. There is one more thing which makes this little place special. There is no hate. You love who you love and that’s all that needs to be said.
… Enter the trouble maker to see how you could stir up the lives of some of those marvelous women.
The main characters are Celine and Gemma. Celine is in love with Gemma but too shy to tell her, and Gemma considers Celine a good girl and friend. Since Celine is too shy to tell Gemma about her love, she tries different things that might finally let Gemma see who her silent admirer is. Celine keeps behaving like a typical teenager over long periods of time (she is not!). In addition, she has a strong submissive streak in her and a need to belong. And all she ever wanted was to belong to Gemma. Then again, Gemma is deceived by Celine, who actually doesn’t want to cause problems, instead she is only out for romance and love. Reading Celine’s stunts is so hilarious. At times, Celine had thoughts that were so teenage-like that I couldn’t stop laughing. It was embarrassing too, but in funny ways, and simply wonderful to read.
With Gemstone you have a romance plot that could develop one way or another, as Gemma has two suitors who are as different as can be. To complicate things, Celine has got a secret online identity which she uses to come closer to Gemma, to ask the questions she doesn’t dare asking Gemma eye to eye. So, Gemma has one suitor she doesn’t even know about. The other suitor, Stella, is not into spankings or DD, but is interested in Gemma who enjoys DD and giving a good spanking; so what is a girl to do?! This is another reason why the story is such great fun to read. You have a funny plot, one which will not let you off the hook until it is over.
I love books that do not give away the outcome early, and I found that in Gemstone. Then you have the very believable characters. I found so much love for detail in the characters, in the everyday activities of the inhabitants. The women meet for a potluck, they have jobs, businesses (Lissa’s Fudge ‘N’ Floral is epic because of the two wonderful shop owners, and because they sell fudge and flowers); they care for others and you get the feeling you know them and that they actually know each other and have a sort of close connection. So, this little spot with the wonderful inhabitants is something that you’ll absolutely love reading about. Definitely a five star book, it is awesome!
… Enter the trouble maker to see how you could stir up the lives of some of those marvelous women.
The main characters are Celine and Gemma. Celine is in love with Gemma but too shy to tell her, and Gemma considers Celine a good girl and friend. Since Celine is too shy to tell Gemma about her love, she tries different things that might finally let Gemma see who her silent admirer is. Celine keeps behaving like a typical teenager over long periods of time (she is not!). In addition, she has a strong submissive streak in her and a need to belong. And all she ever wanted was to belong to Gemma. Then again, Gemma is deceived by Celine, who actually doesn’t want to cause problems, instead she is only out for romance and love. Reading Celine’s stunts is so hilarious. At times, Celine had thoughts that were so teenage-like that I couldn’t stop laughing. It was embarrassing too, but in funny ways, and simply wonderful to read.
With Gemstone you have a romance plot that could develop one way or another, as Gemma has two suitors who are as different as can be. To complicate things, Celine has got a secret online identity which she uses to come closer to Gemma, to ask the questions she doesn’t dare asking Gemma eye to eye. So, Gemma has one suitor she doesn’t even know about. The other suitor, Stella, is not into spankings or DD, but is interested in Gemma who enjoys DD and giving a good spanking; so what is a girl to do?! This is another reason why the story is such great fun to read. You have a funny plot, one which will not let you off the hook until it is over.
I love books that do not give away the outcome early, and I found that in Gemstone. Then you have the very believable characters. I found so much love for detail in the characters, in the everyday activities of the inhabitants. The women meet for a potluck, they have jobs, businesses (Lissa’s Fudge ‘N’ Floral is epic because of the two wonderful shop owners, and because they sell fudge and flowers); they care for others and you get the feeling you know them and that they actually know each other and have a sort of close connection. So, this little spot with the wonderful inhabitants is something that you’ll absolutely love reading about. Definitely a five star book, it is awesome!
June 3, 2015
This new work by Anastasia Vitsky is the story of Celine and Gemma who both are very active in their churches but who also harbor secret attractions to women and kinky pleasures.Struggling with the knowledge that many people in churches don't understand anything but ´vanilla hetero intimate situations´, the women live a different life outside of the church walls. Celine harbors an even deeper secret attraction through an online site. This journey follows her through the many challenges of hiding one's true self from a world of uncertainty and harsh judgment of LGBTQ life and disciplinary pleasures.
She becomes more comfortable in her own skin and takes brave new steps forward on her path to sexual and religious freedom.You'll enjoy this story of playful and sexy interaction among women with deep faith. Keeping secrets can be risky but quite fun !
She becomes more comfortable in her own skin and takes brave new steps forward on her path to sexual and religious freedom.You'll enjoy this story of playful and sexy interaction among women with deep faith. Keeping secrets can be risky but quite fun !
August 10, 2016
Another wonderful book by Ms. Vitsky. There are so many reasons I love her work, and this was no exception. Once again, I was hooked on the first page.
As usual, this was another story that made me think deeply about forgiveness and redemption. It was much more overtly Christian, which may not be for everyone but was a definite selling point for me. I adored the group personality of the church ladies and found myself relating in the sense of recognizing the dynamics and enjoying their relationships. I’d have loved to know more about them.
The relationships between Gemma and the other women in the story were fascinating. I found it interesting that she was so reserved with those in her offline life but much more willing to let her natural personality out online. I think that’s something many people can relate to in an era when a lot of our interactions are online rather than face-to-face.
Despite her deceptions, Celine was my favorite character. I thought she experienced the most growth during the course of the story–from someone wanting to learn more about the woman she loved to discovering herself as a person with a complex identity, she was a treasure.
There were moments when I wasn’t sure how I felt about some of the things both Gemma and Celine did. Gemma seemed quick to blame Celine despite her own shortcomings. However, I think that’s realistic, and the way in which they moved past it made sense to who they were. I’m not sure how I would have reacted in their situation; probably not any differently.
For me, this story went beyond simply entertaining me (though it did plenty of that too). It made me think deeply about the themes and the interactions between the characters. All in all, a multi-faceted and enjoyable read.
As usual, this was another story that made me think deeply about forgiveness and redemption. It was much more overtly Christian, which may not be for everyone but was a definite selling point for me. I adored the group personality of the church ladies and found myself relating in the sense of recognizing the dynamics and enjoying their relationships. I’d have loved to know more about them.
The relationships between Gemma and the other women in the story were fascinating. I found it interesting that she was so reserved with those in her offline life but much more willing to let her natural personality out online. I think that’s something many people can relate to in an era when a lot of our interactions are online rather than face-to-face.
Despite her deceptions, Celine was my favorite character. I thought she experienced the most growth during the course of the story–from someone wanting to learn more about the woman she loved to discovering herself as a person with a complex identity, she was a treasure.
There were moments when I wasn’t sure how I felt about some of the things both Gemma and Celine did. Gemma seemed quick to blame Celine despite her own shortcomings. However, I think that’s realistic, and the way in which they moved past it made sense to who they were. I’m not sure how I would have reacted in their situation; probably not any differently.
For me, this story went beyond simply entertaining me (though it did plenty of that too). It made me think deeply about the themes and the interactions between the characters. All in all, a multi-faceted and enjoyable read.
August 18, 2017
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I received this book via the author to give an honest review.
So I have never been big on reading about spanking or even f/f. So when the author asked me to read her other work I wanted to give it a try. I actually enjoyed the story lines she was coming up with and it wasn't dirty sounding like you would find in an erotic book.
So the first thing that calls out to me is the cover and the title. The title just pops out and the title Gemstone sounds so shiny and pretty.
I will say I was kind of going omg when figging was mentioned. I have never heard of this before and it sounds really painful so I had to do some research and yeah.....just going to leave that right there......
I really liked how the author did this book.
Not only do we get to see how Lorelei/Gemma lives and how she wants to find someone who enjoys the kinky life she lives she also wants to find love. She looks on these website but it seems to just draw people who are out for just one thing. Sex. We also have internet interactions between Mistress Lorelei and Starrygirl793. Now Starrygirl knows who Lorelei truly is but yet Lorelei doesn't know Starrygirl until everything is revealed. We see how Celine who has tried to find out more about Gemma tries to let her know how she feels and will do anything to have Gemma look to her for companionship even if that means lying to her. We see how Gemma handles the situation and I would have expected nothing less.
The way the ending came about I can honestly say I didn't think it would really go that way but I am truly glad it did.
There will be friendship, betrayal, love and coming out.
I received this book via the author to give an honest review.
So I have never been big on reading about spanking or even f/f. So when the author asked me to read her other work I wanted to give it a try. I actually enjoyed the story lines she was coming up with and it wasn't dirty sounding like you would find in an erotic book.
So the first thing that calls out to me is the cover and the title. The title just pops out and the title Gemstone sounds so shiny and pretty.
I will say I was kind of going omg when figging was mentioned. I have never heard of this before and it sounds really painful so I had to do some research and yeah.....just going to leave that right there......
I really liked how the author did this book.
Not only do we get to see how Lorelei/Gemma lives and how she wants to find someone who enjoys the kinky life she lives she also wants to find love. She looks on these website but it seems to just draw people who are out for just one thing. Sex. We also have internet interactions between Mistress Lorelei and Starrygirl793. Now Starrygirl knows who Lorelei truly is but yet Lorelei doesn't know Starrygirl until everything is revealed. We see how Celine who has tried to find out more about Gemma tries to let her know how she feels and will do anything to have Gemma look to her for companionship even if that means lying to her. We see how Gemma handles the situation and I would have expected nothing less.
The way the ending came about I can honestly say I didn't think it would really go that way but I am truly glad it did.
There will be friendship, betrayal, love and coming out.
August 1, 2015
FiveStars
Another wonderful book by Ms. Vitsky. There are so many reasons I love her work, and this was no exception. Once again, I was hooked on the first page.
As usual, this was another story that made me think deeply about forgiveness and redemption. It was much more overtly Christian, which may not be for everyone but was a definite selling point for me. I adored the group personality of the church ladies and found myself relating in the sense of recognizing the dynamics and enjoying their relationships. I'd have loved to know more about them.
The relationships between Gemma and the other women in the story were fascinating. I found it interesting that she was so reserved with those in her offline life but much more willing to let her natural personality out online. I think that's something many people can relate to in an era when a lot of our interactions are online rather than face-to-face.
Despite her deceptions, Celine was my favorite character. I thought she experienced the most growth during the course of the story--from someone wanting to learn more about the woman she loved to discovering herself as a person with a complex identity, she was a treasure.
There were moments when I wasn't sure how I felt about some of the things both Gemma and Celine did. Gemma seemed quick to blame Celine despite her own shortcomings. However, I think that's realistic, and the way in which they moved past it made sense to who they were. I'm not sure how I would have reacted in their situation; probably not any differently.
For me, this story went beyond simply entertaining me (though it did plenty of that too). It made me think deeply about the themes and the interactions between the characters. All in all, a multi-faceted and enjoyable read.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Amy
Another wonderful book by Ms. Vitsky. There are so many reasons I love her work, and this was no exception. Once again, I was hooked on the first page.
As usual, this was another story that made me think deeply about forgiveness and redemption. It was much more overtly Christian, which may not be for everyone but was a definite selling point for me. I adored the group personality of the church ladies and found myself relating in the sense of recognizing the dynamics and enjoying their relationships. I'd have loved to know more about them.
The relationships between Gemma and the other women in the story were fascinating. I found it interesting that she was so reserved with those in her offline life but much more willing to let her natural personality out online. I think that's something many people can relate to in an era when a lot of our interactions are online rather than face-to-face.
Despite her deceptions, Celine was my favorite character. I thought she experienced the most growth during the course of the story--from someone wanting to learn more about the woman she loved to discovering herself as a person with a complex identity, she was a treasure.
There were moments when I wasn't sure how I felt about some of the things both Gemma and Celine did. Gemma seemed quick to blame Celine despite her own shortcomings. However, I think that's realistic, and the way in which they moved past it made sense to who they were. I'm not sure how I would have reacted in their situation; probably not any differently.
For me, this story went beyond simply entertaining me (though it did plenty of that too). It made me think deeply about the themes and the interactions between the characters. All in all, a multi-faceted and enjoyable read.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Amy
May 24, 2016
The story/relationship progresses so slow, at the 22% mark nothing happened yet. Normally i appreciate when writers build up the relationships, but this is just too slow. Even though it's still interesting.
Ok, just finished the book, and to be honest i'm a bit disappointed.
1. I didn't like the online chat dialogues. Sometimes it's ok, but not too much of it. Some of the dialogues were boring and unnecessary. Some of the chat dialogue flashbacks didn't make sense timeline-wise. It'd make more sense if it was more chronological or if the flashbacks matched-up with the present scene/story line.
2. even though i'm not a hugh fan of BDSM, i'm a bit disappointed that it did not deliver on what the summary suggested. It failed to put the reader in the same headspace as the dom/sub which i would consider crucial for this novel. Or if not the headspace at least make us connect with the characters enough to understand why BDSM was so important for the characters, like their motivation or why they feel that NEED. It is explained, but i find it superficial, it lacked something. Unfortunately I can't put into words what it lacked. To put it simply, i've read about kinkier stuff and they were more interesting and better written.
Ok, just finished the book, and to be honest i'm a bit disappointed.
1. I didn't like the online chat dialogues. Sometimes it's ok, but not too much of it. Some of the dialogues were boring and unnecessary. Some of the chat dialogue flashbacks didn't make sense timeline-wise. It'd make more sense if it was more chronological or if the flashbacks matched-up with the present scene/story line.
2. even though i'm not a hugh fan of BDSM, i'm a bit disappointed that it did not deliver on what the summary suggested. It failed to put the reader in the same headspace as the dom/sub which i would consider crucial for this novel. Or if not the headspace at least make us connect with the characters enough to understand why BDSM was so important for the characters, like their motivation or why they feel that NEED. It is explained, but i find it superficial, it lacked something. Unfortunately I can't put into words what it lacked. To put it simply, i've read about kinkier stuff and they were more interesting and better written.
June 8, 2015
Tipsy church ladies, a love triangle, spanking, and figging! We meet a huge variety of people, young and old, and different sorts of personalities. They're bound together by their church group, which best I can figure is just an excuse to eat and drink with passing nods to church business. Religion is important here but it's not overwhelming... easy to for you to ignore the short religious bits and carry on with reading the story.
You're drawn in right from the beginning as you're snooping on internet chat between two people. There's a strong feeling of some deception from one character, making this another one from this author that cannot be put down to finish later.
There are changing perspectives in each chapter, as well as time shifts back and forth between a short time ago and the present. This can be challenging to follow especially with f/f. I don't normally like this at all but the author makes it work and gives you that inside perspective you can only get by being inside the characters' heads.
You're drawn in right from the beginning as you're snooping on internet chat between two people. There's a strong feeling of some deception from one character, making this another one from this author that cannot be put down to finish later.
There are changing perspectives in each chapter, as well as time shifts back and forth between a short time ago and the present. This can be challenging to follow especially with f/f. I don't normally like this at all but the author makes it work and gives you that inside perspective you can only get by being inside the characters' heads.
April 5, 2022
I was extremely disappointed in this book. I was really interested based on the description. I couldn't find a kindle version anywhere so I finally chased down a used copy on Amazon. I have a lot of issues with this book.
First, there was a weird amount of Christianity for a kink book. There was no indication from either the description or the author's bio that one main plot point would be not having sex before marriage. The author spent more time discussing the church potlucks than building the relationship.
The resolution of the conflict was impossibly short and didn't make a lot of sense. Additionally, everyone kept talking about the kink while not actually showing it except for the last 10 pages. The timelines jumped around and were hard to follow.
All in all I was disappointed in what sounded like a good f/f kink book. I would not recommend.
First, there was a weird amount of Christianity for a kink book. There was no indication from either the description or the author's bio that one main plot point would be not having sex before marriage. The author spent more time discussing the church potlucks than building the relationship.
The resolution of the conflict was impossibly short and didn't make a lot of sense. Additionally, everyone kept talking about the kink while not actually showing it except for the last 10 pages. The timelines jumped around and were hard to follow.
All in all I was disappointed in what sounded like a good f/f kink book. I would not recommend.
July 18, 2021
I usually don't rate a book five stars - but this novel definitely deserves it. From the moment I started reading it, it has been difficult to put it down. This is a rare book that made me emotional while reading it - I even had tears in my eyes at one point!!
I absolutely loved this book - I'll definitely be re-reading this!
If you haven't read it yet, please do - you won't regret it.
I absolutely loved this book - I'll definitely be re-reading this!
If you haven't read it yet, please do - you won't regret it.
October 22, 2017
*basks*
The religious people are nice, and queer, in this one, for a change. Including the two leads. The conflict comes from other sources.
The religious people are nice, and queer, in this one, for a change. Including the two leads. The conflict comes from other sources.
December 30, 2015
I actually found this story, Gemstone and the author Anastasia Vitsky, at the Rainbow Con in Tampa Florida this summer. I say this every time the topic of book conventions come up, if you get the chance to go, DO IT!! You will have a ball meeting the authors you know and love and you will meet new ones to grow to love. So many fun things go on, like authors reading from their stories. It was during one of these author readings, Anastasia and one of her friends read a part of Gemstone and I knew I had to have it.
One of the things I love about this story is we have all been in both of the main characters, Gemma and Celine, position. Gemma is about to give up on love and thinks love is something she won’t have. Celine has a mad crush and feels if she can only get Gemma to see her, really see her it could bring about what they both want, a happily ever after.
I would say “Oh to be young.”, but our characters are in their thirties. Granted thirties are not old but for romance novels it is not the norm, which is another thing I love about this story. It is nice to see authors giving a nod to readers who want characters with a few years and some experience under their belts or skirts in this stories case. This story also shows that just because we have some time and experience there is still some things we can discover about ourselves as well as each other. Sorry that is all you’re getting on that point. I don’t want to spoil the fun you will have as our characters make these discoveries.
This story also brings a rare characteristic for one of the main characters, Gemma. She is religious, not to the Holy Roller point, not that there is anything wrong with that, I just think that would not play well in a kinky romance. This is just my opinion. It would also put a story in a whole different genre. But Anastasia integrated it in this story very well and for her characters, their development and story it works well. It also brings about a lot of fun with the group of women who are referred to as the Faith Women. You are going to love these women and their Jell-O shots!
So if you enjoy a good FF romance or think you might want to give one a try I would recommend Gemstone to both groups of readers. This story will also give you another item to eye in the produce section of your favorite market. *wink*
One of the things I love about this story is we have all been in both of the main characters, Gemma and Celine, position. Gemma is about to give up on love and thinks love is something she won’t have. Celine has a mad crush and feels if she can only get Gemma to see her, really see her it could bring about what they both want, a happily ever after.
I would say “Oh to be young.”, but our characters are in their thirties. Granted thirties are not old but for romance novels it is not the norm, which is another thing I love about this story. It is nice to see authors giving a nod to readers who want characters with a few years and some experience under their belts or skirts in this stories case. This story also shows that just because we have some time and experience there is still some things we can discover about ourselves as well as each other. Sorry that is all you’re getting on that point. I don’t want to spoil the fun you will have as our characters make these discoveries.
This story also brings a rare characteristic for one of the main characters, Gemma. She is religious, not to the Holy Roller point, not that there is anything wrong with that, I just think that would not play well in a kinky romance. This is just my opinion. It would also put a story in a whole different genre. But Anastasia integrated it in this story very well and for her characters, their development and story it works well. It also brings about a lot of fun with the group of women who are referred to as the Faith Women. You are going to love these women and their Jell-O shots!
So if you enjoy a good FF romance or think you might want to give one a try I would recommend Gemstone to both groups of readers. This story will also give you another item to eye in the produce section of your favorite market. *wink*
December 31, 2015
A f/f romance novel about Gemma, a good church lady who has a secret online life as a Mistress Lorelei, handing out strict spankings and figgings. Celine, Gemma's neighbor, has been nursing a crush on her for months. When she accidentally finds out about Mistress Lorelei, she decides to investigate the kink-scene, going so far as to contact Lorelei under a secret screenname of her own.
To complicate matters further, Gemma's best friend has set her up with confident, successful Stella, who seems like the perfect woman, except that a) she's not religious, and b) she's not into kink. Who will Gemma choose?
This is a fairly slight romance, with no particularly deep insights into characters or situations, but as long as you go into it with that understanding, it's a lot of fun. Plus, I've never seen lesbians + kinky + religious combined before, and it's worth reading just for that intersection alone. Actually, I wish there'd been more about Gemma's faith. She believes in no sex until marriage, which I found a little confusing when she was willing to act out BDSM scenes with her girlfriends (I know that's a line that professional dominatrixes often draw, but it makes more sense to me as a business transaction than a matter of faith. Clearly Gemma's activities are leading to orgasms for at least some of the participants, some of the time, so why does she – or God! – not consider that to be sex?). I also would have liked to see a bit more build-up to the happy ending. But I'm probably asking for more from this book than it really was trying to be. I wanted something light and enjoyable, and this was the perfect book for that.
To complicate matters further, Gemma's best friend has set her up with confident, successful Stella, who seems like the perfect woman, except that a) she's not religious, and b) she's not into kink. Who will Gemma choose?
This is a fairly slight romance, with no particularly deep insights into characters or situations, but as long as you go into it with that understanding, it's a lot of fun. Plus, I've never seen lesbians + kinky + religious combined before, and it's worth reading just for that intersection alone. Actually, I wish there'd been more about Gemma's faith. She believes in no sex until marriage, which I found a little confusing when she was willing to act out BDSM scenes with her girlfriends (I know that's a line that professional dominatrixes often draw, but it makes more sense to me as a business transaction than a matter of faith. Clearly Gemma's activities are leading to orgasms for at least some of the participants, some of the time, so why does she – or God! – not consider that to be sex?). I also would have liked to see a bit more build-up to the happy ending. But I'm probably asking for more from this book than it really was trying to be. I wanted something light and enjoyable, and this was the perfect book for that.
August 23, 2015
Gemstone is about a young woman named Celine AKA Starrygirl793, and an older lesbian named Gemma, AKA Lorelei. Unknown to Gemma, Celine is in love with her and has found out about her Domme persona in a chatroom.
Celine is too unsure to talk outright to Gemma but while she is in the chatroom she feels free to get to know the woman she adores. What’s going to happen when Gemma discovers Celine’s secret? Will she be pleased or will the situation drive a wall between them that cannot be crossed? These women are very easy to care about. They are so realistic as the personas of the people they portray behind the computer screen and in person where their insecurities prevent them from coming out as those people in real life. When the reality really is that they are a blend of both.
Every time I read another one of Ms. Vitsky's books I am convinced it is my favorite so it’s safe to say that now this one is my favorite. She writes so well and, as always, the story is technically perfect.
I was not sure how all the interactions with the church ladies would be. They played a big role in this book. While they could have been snooty and preachy they seemed just fine with Celine and Gemma’s lesbianism and were happy for them as a couple. I liked this aspect VERY much!!
With the Domme/Sub relationship this book was hot but not risqué, which is another one of Ms. Vitsky’s many talents.
Celine is too unsure to talk outright to Gemma but while she is in the chatroom she feels free to get to know the woman she adores. What’s going to happen when Gemma discovers Celine’s secret? Will she be pleased or will the situation drive a wall between them that cannot be crossed? These women are very easy to care about. They are so realistic as the personas of the people they portray behind the computer screen and in person where their insecurities prevent them from coming out as those people in real life. When the reality really is that they are a blend of both.
Every time I read another one of Ms. Vitsky's books I am convinced it is my favorite so it’s safe to say that now this one is my favorite. She writes so well and, as always, the story is technically perfect.
I was not sure how all the interactions with the church ladies would be. They played a big role in this book. While they could have been snooty and preachy they seemed just fine with Celine and Gemma’s lesbianism and were happy for them as a couple. I liked this aspect VERY much!!
With the Domme/Sub relationship this book was hot but not risqué, which is another one of Ms. Vitsky’s many talents.
September 27, 2015
Gemma and Celine - These two are so suited for each other and have been connecting in a special way online but while Celine knows who she's talking to Gemma doesn't. And in "real" life Celine can't seem to open up and be honest with Gemma. All this leads to them nearly missing out completely on something special. And then when it seems like communication is starting it seems to blow up even worse. I was shedding a few tears when it seemed like they were going to miss out on something so special. Love the car it was perfect.
May 6, 2016
I enjoyed reading this book. I am not in the lifestyle this book discusses nor do I even have much knowledge about it but the story was still quite good. I found the difference between the online personas and the offline friendships to be interesting and engaging. If you want to break out of the usual girl meets girl, girl romances girl, girl gets girl, read this book!
January 19, 2016
Interesting, although i'm not really into this type of books. Oh well. 3.5 for me. Who knows you might like it.
Read
March 18, 2016Not rated, as I did not finish as it was too edgy for me, and not fair to rate down the book because of my comfort zone. If this is your thing, I think you will like this book though.
May 1, 2017
Although I was a bit apprehensive about starting this when I first read the description (I generally avoid all mentions of religion), Gemstone was delightfully fun from start to finish. I was quickly pulled in and couldn't put it down until the ride was over. It felt like I was watching a beautiful train wreck, just waiting for the moment when everything would explode.
I really enjoyed how Gemma and Celine were interacting both online and in-person. I'm not usually a fan of the chat-format, but I felt that it worked well here. My only issues were how things seemed to progress too fast in the end and how some of the time jumps became confusing. I would have preferred if things had kept on more of a linear timeline and if the relationship development would have been drawn out a bit further.
I really enjoyed how Gemma and Celine were interacting both online and in-person. I'm not usually a fan of the chat-format, but I felt that it worked well here. My only issues were how things seemed to progress too fast in the end and how some of the time jumps became confusing. I would have preferred if things had kept on more of a linear timeline and if the relationship development would have been drawn out a bit further.
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