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Mountain Masters & Dark Haven #1.5
Simon Says: Mine
[[ Reprint ]] Previously included in the Doms of Dark Haven Anthology
With an empty nest and divorce in hand, Rona decides it's time to explore the fantasies that nourished her through a long, tedious marriage to a man whose idea of outrageous sex was leaving the lights on. At the top of her fantasy list is touring Dark Haven, the BDSM club, but she isn't prepared for the effect of a powerful Dom. When Master Simon takes control and introduces her to toys and sensations she's never felt before, she realizes he could fulfil every fantasy on her list all by himself. But she's vowed to never get trapped in a relationship again.
One of the most popular Doms in Dark Haven, Master Simon has had his fill of eager, shallow, young subs. Rona is older, intelligent, independent...and sweetly submissive. After an evening of intense pleasure and despite her obvious attraction, she refuses to see him again. He needs a way to change her mind. She's not the first sub he's taken on a journey of exploration, but he's beginning to think she might be the last.
[This novella was originally published in the Doms of Dark Haven anthology]
With an empty nest and divorce in hand, Rona decides it's time to explore the fantasies that nourished her through a long, tedious marriage to a man whose idea of outrageous sex was leaving the lights on. At the top of her fantasy list is touring Dark Haven, the BDSM club, but she isn't prepared for the effect of a powerful Dom. When Master Simon takes control and introduces her to toys and sensations she's never felt before, she realizes he could fulfil every fantasy on her list all by himself. But she's vowed to never get trapped in a relationship again.
One of the most popular Doms in Dark Haven, Master Simon has had his fill of eager, shallow, young subs. Rona is older, intelligent, independent...and sweetly submissive. After an evening of intense pleasure and despite her obvious attraction, she refuses to see him again. He needs a way to change her mind. She's not the first sub he's taken on a journey of exploration, but he's beginning to think she might be the last.
[This novella was originally published in the Doms of Dark Haven anthology]
94 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 18, 2010
444 people are currently reading
936 people want to read
About the author
Cherise Sinclair
67 books8,339 followersA New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she’s renowned for writing heart-wrenching romances with laugh-out-loud dialogue, alpha males, and absolutely sizzling sex.
I met my dearheart when vacationing in the Caribbean. Now I won’t say it was love at first sight. Actually since he stood over me, enjoying the view down my swimsuit top, I might have been a tad peeved—as well as attracted. But although we were together less than two days and lived on opposite sides of the country, love can’t be corralled by time or space.
We’ve now been married for many, many years. (And he still looks down my swimsuit tops.)
Nowadays, I live in the west with this obnoxious, beloved husband and a seventy-pound lap-puppy. I’m a gardener, and I love nurturing small plants until they’re big and healthy and productive…and ripping defenseless weeds out by the roots when I’m angry. I enjoy thunderstorms, collecting eggs from the chickens, and visiting the local brewery for the darkest, maltiest beer on tap. My favorite way to spend an evening is curled up on a couch next to the master of my heart, watching the fire, reading, and…well…if you’re reading my books, you obviously know what else happens in front of fires.
I met my dearheart when vacationing in the Caribbean. Now I won’t say it was love at first sight. Actually since he stood over me, enjoying the view down my swimsuit top, I might have been a tad peeved—as well as attracted. But although we were together less than two days and lived on opposite sides of the country, love can’t be corralled by time or space.
We’ve now been married for many, many years. (And he still looks down my swimsuit tops.)
Nowadays, I live in the west with this obnoxious, beloved husband and a seventy-pound lap-puppy. I’m a gardener, and I love nurturing small plants until they’re big and healthy and productive…and ripping defenseless weeds out by the roots when I’m angry. I enjoy thunderstorms, collecting eggs from the chickens, and visiting the local brewery for the darkest, maltiest beer on tap. My favorite way to spend an evening is curled up on a couch next to the master of my heart, watching the fire, reading, and…well…if you’re reading my books, you obviously know what else happens in front of fires.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
December 31, 2017
I loved that both the characters are mature.
Simon definitely knows what he wants, while Rona needs to be convinced. She may not have experience, but she has plently of enthusiasm.
Cherish Sinclair can write awesome BDSM scenes that do not lack sensitivity and depth of characters.
Simon definitely knows what he wants, while Rona needs to be convinced. She may not have experience, but she has plently of enthusiasm.
Cherish Sinclair can write awesome BDSM scenes that do not lack sensitivity and depth of characters.
January 12, 2020
A very short novella. Just fill with sex. No story to develop. Even with a short novella, Miss Sinclair still able to make the sex really steamy.
Since this is short story,there is insta lust but no real chemistry between the characters.
Overall I like this book OK.
3 stars
Since this is short story,there is insta lust but no real chemistry between the characters.
Overall I like this book OK.
3 stars
August 18, 2017
I wanted more.
True, I shouldn't expect too much from a BDSM novella, but it was pretty boring, frankly. I just wanted a bit more spark, a little more chemistry, bust a tiny bit more.
True, I shouldn't expect too much from a BDSM novella, but it was pretty boring, frankly. I just wanted a bit more spark, a little more chemistry, bust a tiny bit more.
May 17, 2024
Simon says Mine is the story of how Rona found what she needed after her divorce.
Ready to try the things she'd been wanting to do for so long,she went to Dark Haven to see what BDSM was all about,and caught Master Simon’s eye.
Rona may have been thinking she’d never again tie herself to one man,but Simon thought differently….
She was exactly what he’d been searching for all these years,and he wasn’t going to let her slip away,he knew thát much!
But how to convince the weary sub to give him a chance?
Her body knew he was perfect for her,but her mind was another matter….
Beautiful short story of having the courage to explore later in life,and finding love as a beautiful reward.
Ready to try the things she'd been wanting to do for so long,she went to Dark Haven to see what BDSM was all about,and caught Master Simon’s eye.
Rona may have been thinking she’d never again tie herself to one man,but Simon thought differently….
She was exactly what he’d been searching for all these years,and he wasn’t going to let her slip away,he knew thát much!
But how to convince the weary sub to give him a chance?
Her body knew he was perfect for her,but her mind was another matter….
Beautiful short story of having the courage to explore later in life,and finding love as a beautiful reward.
May 21, 2017
Heresy. This is one Cherise Sinclair I did not like.
Heroine is a divorcee that must have been stunned by boredom as she doesn't want to be with the same man more than once. She meets Simon, alpha BDSM DOM, who impresses her with his spanking skills. Did not care for the heroine at all.
When your alpha Dom chases the chick, there's something a little off. Plus, some of the sex scenes were more than a little clinical and, again, just off.
Still a huge fan of Cherise Sinclair, but for some reason I have had less success with the dark Haven series.
Heroine is a divorcee that must have been stunned by boredom as she doesn't want to be with the same man more than once. She meets Simon, alpha BDSM DOM, who impresses her with his spanking skills. Did not care for the heroine at all.
When your alpha Dom chases the chick, there's something a little off. Plus, some of the sex scenes were more than a little clinical and, again, just off.
Still a huge fan of Cherise Sinclair, but for some reason I have had less success with the dark Haven series.
August 16, 2015
Another favourite read by Cherise Sinclair! I like that the heroines and heroes are on the older, more mature side.
Firm fingers grasped her chin, lifting it. “Look at me, Rona.”
She looked past him, over his big shoulder. I will not cry, not for this cold dom who flip-flops like a fish on dry land.
A soft snort of laugher, then his voice lowered. “Look. At. Me.”
Her eyes flashed to his and were caught and pinned in his intent gaze.
“That’s better,” he murmured. “What is going through that clever brain of yours, lass?” The warm, caressing tone wrapped her in warmth.
Firstly, Rona absolutely cracks me up! A little obsessive compulsive but she goes after what she wants now that she is free to do so. Though, because of her fantasy list, she ends up becoming too obsessed with sticking to the rules she set for herself. It's ironic that in turn, it's Rona who doesn't want more while Simon wants more out of her and a relationship.
He heard David grab his toy bag and leave, but didn’t take his focus from the sub. He’d caught her as handily as any of the animals he’d hunted in his youth.
She’d been amusing herself, twirling and swinging on the chains like a child, and he suppressed his grin.
Looking up, she saw her dom leaving. “Hey! David, where are you going? Hey!”
Simon paced forward. Slowly.
She saw him. Her eyes widened.
Perfect.
Oh sweet heavens—Master Simon. As Rona stared at him, the laughter inside her fizzled out, and her heart began an annoyingly fast pace again.
Definitely a yummy read with toe-curling sex. Due to Rona being a nurse, she is a natural giver and helper, and is used to being tough and in charge. She ended up "terrorizing" a dom and battering his ego ;)
Simon watched for a moment and winced when Rona laughed at the dom. True, she had an adorable, low laugh, but the dom had totally lost control of the scene. From the young man’s unhappy expression, he didn’t know how to get it back—if he’d ever had it. The term “submissive” didn’t necessarily mean pushover.
I do like that Simon manages to turn her into putty with a look or tone of voice, right from the first meeting. I like that he doesn't give up on Rona and keeps pushing her. Even going to a certain extreme to get her to realise what she really want and need. His wickedness, perserverance and loving care are a huge yes for me! Definitely a favourite couple of mine.
She frowned. He was trying to get a cuff link into his shirt and failing miserably. For some reason, the fingers of his left hand didn’t bend. His frustrated growl switched him in her mind from a hunk to someone who needed her.
She walked over, pushed his hand to one side, and fastened the heavy silver link. “There.” With a smile, she patted his arm comfortingly. “Now—”
She looked up into intent, powerful eyes, and every cell in her body went into a meltdown. He kept her pinned with those dark eyes, studying her as if he could see through to her soul.
He moved closer, forcing her to tilt her head back to look up at him. When her breath stuck in her chest, his lips curved into a faint smile. “You didn’t even think before coming to my rescue, did you?” he asked, and his voice was as dark and smooth as everything else about him.
She should apologize. “I-I’m—”
“Be silent.”
Her throat just plain shut down completely, and the laugh lines around his eyes crinkled slightly. “Submissive,” he murmured. “But no submissive would shove a master’s hands away and take over. You’re new?”
He didn’t wait for an answer but ran a finger down her cheek, her neck, across the tops of her pushed-up breasts.
His touch burned through her, leaving an aching need. The trembling inside her stomach worked outward until her legs wobbled. “Please,” she whispered.
He tilted his head. “Please what, pet?”
“Please don’t tease me.” Feeling like an idiot—a very confused, aroused idiot—she dropped her gaze and tried to take a step back.
His hand closed around her upper arm, firmly enough that she knew she’d go nowhere.
“Look at me.” A finger under her chin raised her face. His lips curved into a faint smile. “Very new, I see.”
“Yes.” Her next effort to move back met the same results—none.
“A submissive need not call any dom but her own ‘Sir,’ but if she approaches a dom on her own and then reacts like this”—his finger left her chin to stroke over her trembling lips—“then she had best address that dom as ‘Sir.’”
Firm fingers grasped her chin, lifting it. “Look at me, Rona.”
She looked past him, over his big shoulder. I will not cry, not for this cold dom who flip-flops like a fish on dry land.
A soft snort of laugher, then his voice lowered. “Look. At. Me.”
Her eyes flashed to his and were caught and pinned in his intent gaze.
“That’s better,” he murmured. “What is going through that clever brain of yours, lass?” The warm, caressing tone wrapped her in warmth.
Firstly, Rona absolutely cracks me up! A little obsessive compulsive but she goes after what she wants now that she is free to do so. Though, because of her fantasy list, she ends up becoming too obsessed with sticking to the rules she set for herself. It's ironic that in turn, it's Rona who doesn't want more while Simon wants more out of her and a relationship.
He heard David grab his toy bag and leave, but didn’t take his focus from the sub. He’d caught her as handily as any of the animals he’d hunted in his youth.
She’d been amusing herself, twirling and swinging on the chains like a child, and he suppressed his grin.
Looking up, she saw her dom leaving. “Hey! David, where are you going? Hey!”
Simon paced forward. Slowly.
She saw him. Her eyes widened.
Perfect.
Oh sweet heavens—Master Simon. As Rona stared at him, the laughter inside her fizzled out, and her heart began an annoyingly fast pace again.
Definitely a yummy read with toe-curling sex. Due to Rona being a nurse, she is a natural giver and helper, and is used to being tough and in charge. She ended up "terrorizing" a dom and battering his ego ;)
Simon watched for a moment and winced when Rona laughed at the dom. True, she had an adorable, low laugh, but the dom had totally lost control of the scene. From the young man’s unhappy expression, he didn’t know how to get it back—if he’d ever had it. The term “submissive” didn’t necessarily mean pushover.
I do like that Simon manages to turn her into putty with a look or tone of voice, right from the first meeting. I like that he doesn't give up on Rona and keeps pushing her. Even going to a certain extreme to get her to realise what she really want and need. His wickedness, perserverance and loving care are a huge yes for me! Definitely a favourite couple of mine.
She frowned. He was trying to get a cuff link into his shirt and failing miserably. For some reason, the fingers of his left hand didn’t bend. His frustrated growl switched him in her mind from a hunk to someone who needed her.
She walked over, pushed his hand to one side, and fastened the heavy silver link. “There.” With a smile, she patted his arm comfortingly. “Now—”
She looked up into intent, powerful eyes, and every cell in her body went into a meltdown. He kept her pinned with those dark eyes, studying her as if he could see through to her soul.
He moved closer, forcing her to tilt her head back to look up at him. When her breath stuck in her chest, his lips curved into a faint smile. “You didn’t even think before coming to my rescue, did you?” he asked, and his voice was as dark and smooth as everything else about him.
She should apologize. “I-I’m—”
“Be silent.”
Her throat just plain shut down completely, and the laugh lines around his eyes crinkled slightly. “Submissive,” he murmured. “But no submissive would shove a master’s hands away and take over. You’re new?”
He didn’t wait for an answer but ran a finger down her cheek, her neck, across the tops of her pushed-up breasts.
His touch burned through her, leaving an aching need. The trembling inside her stomach worked outward until her legs wobbled. “Please,” she whispered.
He tilted his head. “Please what, pet?”
“Please don’t tease me.” Feeling like an idiot—a very confused, aroused idiot—she dropped her gaze and tried to take a step back.
His hand closed around her upper arm, firmly enough that she knew she’d go nowhere.
“Look at me.” A finger under her chin raised her face. His lips curved into a faint smile. “Very new, I see.”
“Yes.” Her next effort to move back met the same results—none.
“A submissive need not call any dom but her own ‘Sir,’ but if she approaches a dom on her own and then reacts like this”—his finger left her chin to stroke over her trembling lips—“then she had best address that dom as ‘Sir.’”
June 5, 2015
10 Stars
God, I LOVE Simon. He is the perfect man and in the top 5 hero's of CS's books.
He and Rona are perfect together.
Loved their story.
God, I LOVE Simon. He is the perfect man and in the top 5 hero's of CS's books.
He and Rona are perfect together.
Loved their story.
December 13, 2015
Hot read with older characters!
July 6, 2016
3.5 stars
I definitely liked this book more than the first one. I like Simon and Rona a lot more as well.
I definitely liked this book more than the first one. I like Simon and Rona a lot more as well.
January 13, 2016
Short but sexy and a quick-read novella from the Dark Haven series.
March 29, 2016
**Spoilers**
I liked Simon but.. Rona worked on my nerves.
After the scene in Simon's bed room, why didn't she just leave?
I mean, she was at His House.
She is uncomfortable with him but her inner dialogue states:
"“I’m going back downstairs now.”
She needed to find someone to help her get her mind off
this…overwhelming man."
There were several times when she would say one thing but do the opposite.
Simon listened to her 'wants' and arranged for her to meet with other Doms
and her internal dialogue went like this:
"She had to force herself not to pull away. She’d make herself like this."
Um, ok, she would "make" herself like the touch of another man?
I can understand that she just got out of a marriage and didn't want anything series but her thoughts and actions were contradictory and she came across as just being.. Stupid at times.
August 24, 2022
Reread 2022
Still enjoyed this one on the reread.
Rona is a good strong female character and Simon is a pleasure to read.
Good
4 ⭐️
I enjoyed this one better than the first. Simon is a good character and not as overpowering as Logan, so I connected better with him. I really liked Rona. I liked that she was an older character who wasn’t afraid to take charge when required, and I also enjoyed that she made the younger Dom lose control of the scene. I thought that was funny.
The chemistry between the two was off the charts and well done. It was good seeing her being the handbrake and I understood her reasons for it. After seeing more of Logan, Becca and Jake I’m looking forward to Jake’s book
Still enjoyed this one on the reread.
Rona is a good strong female character and Simon is a pleasure to read.
Good
4 ⭐️
I enjoyed this one better than the first. Simon is a good character and not as overpowering as Logan, so I connected better with him. I really liked Rona. I liked that she was an older character who wasn’t afraid to take charge when required, and I also enjoyed that she made the younger Dom lose control of the scene. I thought that was funny.
The chemistry between the two was off the charts and well done. It was good seeing her being the handbrake and I understood her reasons for it. After seeing more of Logan, Becca and Jake I’m looking forward to Jake’s book
July 16, 2018
There was no depth to this book. Granted, it's hard to achieve with these shorter novellas but it lacked substance. I love Cherise's books but this one was just meh.
February 19, 2018
Wow.... I want a Simon.
Such a good book, I just wish it was longer! I wanted more Simon and Rona. We didn't learn much about Simon, other then he seemed pretty wealthy and works (or owns) a security company. I was really missing that connection.
Such a good book, I just wish it was longer! I wanted more Simon and Rona. We didn't learn much about Simon, other then he seemed pretty wealthy and works (or owns) a security company. I was really missing that connection.
August 30, 2017
A virgin to the BDSM life style Rona decides to dip her toe and give it a try. She attends the Dark Haven and Master Simon, spots her from the outset. Bot click from day one. The heat and passion in this book is just, fir me off the scale. I love that we get inside both Characters heads, seeing their thoughts and feelings. I found this an enjoyable, easy read. Rona is introduced to the soft side of BDSM, as there's a bit of spanking, mild electrocution and cupping, which was a different read, makes a change from but plugs and anal virgins.
The book has humour, with the variety of toys seen from the side of a mature, vanilla woman, who had found herself in a loveless marriage for too long. Had her kids, marriage and was starting life a new. Not knowing what, or where to go, and is smitten all too soon. A story so close to home, but surprisingly easy to read .
This book touches on the dark side of BDSM; where a girl is being whipped, but using her safe word, and the Dom takes no notice. Highlighting how easy it can be to be abused; trust in this lifestyle is a huge must.
I would read this again, just over far too quick for me, we were just getting to know them, they've just found each other, and then we're off. I so wanted so much more. Rather than a window into two days of their lives, for this I could have dropped a half star, but I did enjoy the read.
The book has humour, with the variety of toys seen from the side of a mature, vanilla woman, who had found herself in a loveless marriage for too long. Had her kids, marriage and was starting life a new. Not knowing what, or where to go, and is smitten all too soon. A story so close to home, but surprisingly easy to read .
This book touches on the dark side of BDSM; where a girl is being whipped, but using her safe word, and the Dom takes no notice. Highlighting how easy it can be to be abused; trust in this lifestyle is a huge must.
I would read this again, just over far too quick for me, we were just getting to know them, they've just found each other, and then we're off. I so wanted so much more. Rather than a window into two days of their lives, for this I could have dropped a half star, but I did enjoy the read.
Read
February 7, 2019For more reviews, check out my blog at http://mlsparrow.wix.com/mlsparrow
I'll keep this review short, since this is a very short novella. I have to say this wasn't one of my favourites, which kinda disappointed me, since I've always been intrigued by Simon. Personally, I really liked the characters, although Rona started to annoy me with her wanting many men nearer the end - I get that she had issues and she was working through them, but still, it got a little irritating - and honestly would have liked them to have a full length novella where there was more room for a stronger plot line. One of the things I like about Cherise Sinclair's books is that they usually have a plot line, besides the romance and BDSM, to keep the story moving and make it so that the book isn't just sex scenes, however, I felt like this story lacked that and personal I was bored...
I'll keep this review short, since this is a very short novella. I have to say this wasn't one of my favourites, which kinda disappointed me, since I've always been intrigued by Simon. Personally, I really liked the characters, although Rona started to annoy me with her wanting many men nearer the end - I get that she had issues and she was working through them, but still, it got a little irritating - and honestly would have liked them to have a full length novella where there was more room for a stronger plot line. One of the things I like about Cherise Sinclair's books is that they usually have a plot line, besides the romance and BDSM, to keep the story moving and make it so that the book isn't just sex scenes, however, I felt like this story lacked that and personal I was bored...
January 11, 2020
“Say, ‘Yes, Master.’”
When Rona finally gets a divorce, she wants to experience all single life has to offer, including a variety of men - she thinks. However, when she keeps running into Master Simon it turns out what you want isn’t always what you need.
With ‘Simon says: Mine’, Cherise Sinclair brings us a second chance Romance with two mature main characters. Although, it’s a short story, there’s enough time for character development, a variety of BDSM practice and even a visit from Logan, Rebecca and Jake from book one.
For me this book was a reread and I enjoyed it as much as the previous time. I’ve partly listened to the audiobook and partly read this ebook.
When Rona finally gets a divorce, she wants to experience all single life has to offer, including a variety of men - she thinks. However, when she keeps running into Master Simon it turns out what you want isn’t always what you need.
With ‘Simon says: Mine’, Cherise Sinclair brings us a second chance Romance with two mature main characters. Although, it’s a short story, there’s enough time for character development, a variety of BDSM practice and even a visit from Logan, Rebecca and Jake from book one.
For me this book was a reread and I enjoyed it as much as the previous time. I’ve partly listened to the audiobook and partly read this ebook.
December 28, 2015
Really enjoyed this dip of the heroine into her fantasies. Simon was understanding and gentle, and had a great sense of humour!
July 22, 2016
It just seems wrong to call a BDSM novella sweet and even worse to say a Dom was sweet - but this was and so was he. I liked it, it worked for me and I'm looking forward to more in this series!
July 27, 2024
This was a sexy novella with some holiday vibes.
Rona is divorced and wants to have new experiences without any attachments. She goes to the BDSM club Dark Haven where she meets Simon. With Simon she gets to explore her submissive side together with a Dom.
Simon is intrigued by Rona from the first moment he sees her. He knows he wants a relationship with her but he has to show Rona that they are compatible not just sexually.
I loved that both Rona and Simon were older characters. They had such great chemistry and the scenes at the club and the Christmas party were so spicy and hot. I really wanted more of their romance and their emotional connection but I liked that this novella had a nice buildup and that it wasn't very instalove. I also liked that Rona was careful with her heart and she was open to experience new things with Simon. Simon had to use his creativity to show her that they were made for each other.
Rona is divorced and wants to have new experiences without any attachments. She goes to the BDSM club Dark Haven where she meets Simon. With Simon she gets to explore her submissive side together with a Dom.
Simon is intrigued by Rona from the first moment he sees her. He knows he wants a relationship with her but he has to show Rona that they are compatible not just sexually.
I loved that both Rona and Simon were older characters. They had such great chemistry and the scenes at the club and the Christmas party were so spicy and hot. I really wanted more of their romance and their emotional connection but I liked that this novella had a nice buildup and that it wasn't very instalove. I also liked that Rona was careful with her heart and she was open to experience new things with Simon. Simon had to use his creativity to show her that they were made for each other.
May 27, 2017
I need to preface this by saying I'm not a huge fan of BDSM in general. I've read a few books in the genre but none have been my cuppa - that includes the first one of this series, Master of the Mountain.
I thought this book was definitely better. What I liked was that both protagonists were older. Rona had a successful nursing career and Simon was also successful but he HAD to be given a military past. (Maybe someone should write a submissive military character.). I also liked that Simon asked her what she'd be interested in trying instead of foisting what he thought she'd want on her. That's part of the whole BDSM thing I don't get and I appreciated his asking. Throughout, Simon gave her choices. They even had what I'd consider fairly normal sex, at least on the BDSM continuum.
Rona wasn't degraded particularly (unlike the h in the first book) although there were some parts of the book that were strange. She feels uncomfortable at the party but stays anyway. She's pushing her boundaries which I understand and since this is a novella, things need to happen quickly.
What I always wonder is where all the BDSM equipment is kept. Is there off-site storage? A basement? It sounds like Simon has some major pieces of furniture he uses and until recently he had a kid at home. I don't consider myself a prude but that goes beyond any kind of awkward birds, bees, USE A CONDOM kinda talk.
At some point, I'll likely read book 3 in the series.
I thought this book was definitely better. What I liked was that both protagonists were older. Rona had a successful nursing career and Simon was also successful but he HAD to be given a military past. (Maybe someone should write a submissive military character.). I also liked that Simon asked her what she'd be interested in trying instead of foisting what he thought she'd want on her. That's part of the whole BDSM thing I don't get and I appreciated his asking. Throughout, Simon gave her choices. They even had what I'd consider fairly normal sex, at least on the BDSM continuum.
Rona wasn't degraded particularly (unlike the h in the first book) although there were some parts of the book that were strange. She feels uncomfortable at the party but stays anyway. She's pushing her boundaries which I understand and since this is a novella, things need to happen quickly.
What I always wonder is where all the BDSM equipment is kept. Is there off-site storage? A basement? It sounds like Simon has some major pieces of furniture he uses and until recently he had a kid at home. I don't consider myself a prude but that goes beyond any kind of awkward birds, bees, USE A CONDOM kinda talk.
At some point, I'll likely read book 3 in the series.
June 21, 2018
Cherise Sinclair does an amazing job of building a romance withing a short time frame. This wasn't insta-love but it got to that point in a short 114 pgs.
Rona's kids are grown, her husband is gone and she is ready to experience the excitement of life after a marriage that ended loveless. When she goes to the Dark Haven, a step out of her comfort zone. She is intrigued as well as extremely turned on. After deciding to 'play' the young Dom she choice just is up to snuff. Enter Simon.
Simon is a long tenured Dom. She watched him flog a girl. She is more than she wants but when they begin her body lights up. He takes her to places she has never been and they don't even have sex. But despite that she is adamant that she will sample many before finding 'the one' she wont settle and get stuck with another like her ex.
Simon wants her. She wants him. Her rules and fears are what deny them. He will need to prove to her that their connection is....more!
I love Cherise Sinclair. Just wish this was longer!!!
Rona's kids are grown, her husband is gone and she is ready to experience the excitement of life after a marriage that ended loveless. When she goes to the Dark Haven, a step out of her comfort zone. She is intrigued as well as extremely turned on. After deciding to 'play' the young Dom she choice just is up to snuff. Enter Simon.
Simon is a long tenured Dom. She watched him flog a girl. She is more than she wants but when they begin her body lights up. He takes her to places she has never been and they don't even have sex. But despite that she is adamant that she will sample many before finding 'the one' she wont settle and get stuck with another like her ex.
Simon wants her. She wants him. Her rules and fears are what deny them. He will need to prove to her that their connection is....more!
I love Cherise Sinclair. Just wish this was longer!!!
October 13, 2020
Expect Nothing Less...
...than perfection with this author.
If you want a BDSM treat, Cherise Sinclair knows how to treat the imagination. Good solid Doms, of which hers are always favourites. Smart, sassy submissives with stories to tell.
Simon and Rona are another perfect match, and Simon Says: Mine is going on my bookshelf.
...than perfection with this author.
If you want a BDSM treat, Cherise Sinclair knows how to treat the imagination. Good solid Doms, of which hers are always favourites. Smart, sassy submissives with stories to tell.
Simon and Rona are another perfect match, and Simon Says: Mine is going on my bookshelf.
August 28, 2017
Very quick read. I enjoyed the story but I would have preferred a full length novel with Simon and Rona. I liked both their characters but their story lacked the depth I prefer in a book. Looking forward to Jake's book next!
September 8, 2019
Favorite part: Where Logan, Rebecca and Jake (from the first book in the series) made an appearance.
Simon was wonderful, but compared to Logan.... he didn't make the cut.
Simon was wonderful, but compared to Logan.... he didn't make the cut.
April 3, 2021
BDSM romance
No plot spoilers
No potential triggers
No grammatical errors that I can recall.
I know this is only a novella, but the last couple of chapters felt very rushed. And again, there is the issue of no limit list discussed and no negotiation. Not the mark of a good Dom.
This seems to be a theme of the Doms in Cherise Sinclair's books, and it's disconcerting because it's a how not to get into the BDSM lifestyle.
The scene regarding the St Andrews cross is another irritant for me. Use of a safe word means everything stops, not stop what is happening and do something else. Use of a safe word should provoke calm reflection on why it was used, not have a discussion as if it was never used.
Obviously the time line is condensed because it's a novella, but it still felt rushed at the end. I didn't feel satisfied.
That said, I adored Rona's character and would have loved the book to be full length, it could have started with Simon's intrigue the night of the football game and entailed pursuit of Rona, providing a more rounded plotline and ending.
The idea that you could walk into a fetish club, off the street, no background check, no previous experience, no medical check and nobody cares what you do when you are in there let alone people requesting sex is just irresponsible and scary.
Truly, we are supposed to believe that Master Xavier runs a great BDSM club where you pay $25 and are subsequently let loose with no checks or supervision? Remind me to never visit. It felt like a really skeevy place to go.
I have given three stars because the story isn't the strongest, and on this occasion the world building was seriously let down by feeling cheap and tacky. The romance element could have been better. There are some kinky sex scenes and some swearing.
No plot spoilers
No potential triggers
No grammatical errors that I can recall.
I know this is only a novella, but the last couple of chapters felt very rushed. And again, there is the issue of no limit list discussed and no negotiation. Not the mark of a good Dom.
This seems to be a theme of the Doms in Cherise Sinclair's books, and it's disconcerting because it's a how not to get into the BDSM lifestyle.
The scene regarding the St Andrews cross is another irritant for me. Use of a safe word means everything stops, not stop what is happening and do something else. Use of a safe word should provoke calm reflection on why it was used, not have a discussion as if it was never used.
Obviously the time line is condensed because it's a novella, but it still felt rushed at the end. I didn't feel satisfied.
That said, I adored Rona's character and would have loved the book to be full length, it could have started with Simon's intrigue the night of the football game and entailed pursuit of Rona, providing a more rounded plotline and ending.
The idea that you could walk into a fetish club, off the street, no background check, no previous experience, no medical check and nobody cares what you do when you are in there let alone people requesting sex is just irresponsible and scary.
Truly, we are supposed to believe that Master Xavier runs a great BDSM club where you pay $25 and are subsequently let loose with no checks or supervision? Remind me to never visit. It felt like a really skeevy place to go.
I have given three stars because the story isn't the strongest, and on this occasion the world building was seriously let down by feeling cheap and tacky. The romance element could have been better. There are some kinky sex scenes and some swearing.
May 29, 2015
I've wanted to learn more about Simon ever since I started reading Cherise's Mountain Masters & Dark Haven series. And, each time I finish a book in the series I remember I have Doms of Dark Haven on-hand waiting TBR. But, when I spotted this short re-release, I couldn't resist.
Rona McGregor is recently divorced and ready to tackle her fantasy list (of things to do). So, when she spots a flyer for Dark Haven's Victorian Night while already dressed her faire attire, she jumps at the chance to explore the club. She spots the intimidating Dom, Simon, but feels he's a bit out of her league. Seeing as another of her goals is to avoid getting stuck in a rut, she believes variety is best.
When Simon spots Rona he has a sense that he's seen her before, but certainly not in the club. She's definitely a newbie and he's all too happy to introduce her to whatever may interest her. He quickly realizes that she's one he doesn't want to let slip away, but how will he convince her that variety is not an option because he's the one for her?
*sigh* I ❤ Cherise! Thanks for the sweet treats while I anxiously tick down the days until Servicing the Target hits my Kindle on 28 July.
Rona McGregor is recently divorced and ready to tackle her fantasy list (of things to do). So, when she spots a flyer for Dark Haven's Victorian Night while already dressed her faire attire, she jumps at the chance to explore the club. She spots the intimidating Dom, Simon, but feels he's a bit out of her league. Seeing as another of her goals is to avoid getting stuck in a rut, she believes variety is best.
When Simon spots Rona he has a sense that he's seen her before, but certainly not in the club. She's definitely a newbie and he's all too happy to introduce her to whatever may interest her. He quickly realizes that she's one he doesn't want to let slip away, but how will he convince her that variety is not an option because he's the one for her?
*sigh* I ❤ Cherise! Thanks for the sweet treats while I anxiously tick down the days until Servicing the Target hits my Kindle on 28 July.
November 22, 2020
3 stars
I mean I liked it, but it was sort of meh. I liked the characters well enough, but there just wasn't enough of them. They were vaguely characterized, and I would've liked to know more about their personal lives and their children. I just wanted something more out of Simon, and I think that he could've been an interesting character to explore (I mean an older Dom, that clearly knows his shit, and that has started to become lonely and crave companionship? Ugh, give it me.) The sex was kinky enough, don't get me wrong. It just felt a bit too alike to what happened in the first book: one Dom and a seemingly reluctant Sub that's in need of teaching.
Kinda excited because the next book is about Jake and apparently I'm a sucker for the scarred-can't-love-anyone-anymore dudes. *fingers crossed*
I mean I liked it, but it was sort of meh. I liked the characters well enough, but there just wasn't enough of them. They were vaguely characterized, and I would've liked to know more about their personal lives and their children. I just wanted something more out of Simon, and I think that he could've been an interesting character to explore (I mean an older Dom, that clearly knows his shit, and that has started to become lonely and crave companionship? Ugh, give it me.) The sex was kinky enough, don't get me wrong. It just felt a bit too alike to what happened in the first book: one Dom and a seemingly reluctant Sub that's in need of teaching.
Kinda excited because the next book is about Jake and apparently I'm a sucker for the scarred-can't-love-anyone-anymore dudes. *fingers crossed*
September 11, 2022
This was a re-read for me. I'm not sure why I gave this 3 stars, but I'm changing it to a 4.
I really like Simon. He knew he wanted Rona and he went for her. Rona is confused. She thinks she needs to experience things with a lot of different males since her marriage failed. She really tries hard to fight her attraction to Simon.
These two are perfect for each other. I just wish we had more time with them in their story. This was definitely one of the better novellas I've read.
I really like Simon. He knew he wanted Rona and he went for her. Rona is confused. She thinks she needs to experience things with a lot of different males since her marriage failed. She really tries hard to fight her attraction to Simon.
These two are perfect for each other. I just wish we had more time with them in their story. This was definitely one of the better novellas I've read.
May 16, 2017
Rhonda is afraid of getting stuck in a boring relationship again and denies her feelings for Simon but it can't be helped.
Even in a short story like this Cherise Sinclair masters the gift of giving me the feeling of being present in the characters life and seeing it "live". The book is great and I recommend it very much. If you're not in to reading series this is perfect to be read on its own.
Even in a short story like this Cherise Sinclair masters the gift of giving me the feeling of being present in the characters life and seeing it "live". The book is great and I recommend it very much. If you're not in to reading series this is perfect to be read on its own.
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