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The Subs Club #1
The Subs Club
A year ago, my best friend Hal died at the hands of an incompetent “dom.” So I started the Subs Club, a private blog where submissives can review doms and call out the douche bags.
A perfect example of the kind of arrogant asshole I mean? The Disciplinarian. He has a pornstache. He loves meat, stoicism, America, and real discipline. And he thinks subs exist to serve him.
But . . . not everything about him is awful. His Davy Crockett act just seems like a cover for his fear of intimacy, and part of me wants to show him it’s okay to get close to people. And, I mean, sue me, but I have fantasized about real discipline. Not role-play, but like, Dave, you’re gonna be thirty in four years and you still work in a mall; get your ass in gear or I’ll spank it.
Not that I’d ever trust anyone with that kind of control.
I’m gonna redefine “battle of wills” for the Disciplinarian. Or I’m gonna bone him. It’s hard to say.
—Dave
* * * * * * *
The Subs Club stories can be read in any order - jump in wherever you'd like!
Word 74,400; page 297
A perfect example of the kind of arrogant asshole I mean? The Disciplinarian. He has a pornstache. He loves meat, stoicism, America, and real discipline. And he thinks subs exist to serve him.
But . . . not everything about him is awful. His Davy Crockett act just seems like a cover for his fear of intimacy, and part of me wants to show him it’s okay to get close to people. And, I mean, sue me, but I have fantasized about real discipline. Not role-play, but like, Dave, you’re gonna be thirty in four years and you still work in a mall; get your ass in gear or I’ll spank it.
Not that I’d ever trust anyone with that kind of control.
I’m gonna redefine “battle of wills” for the Disciplinarian. Or I’m gonna bone him. It’s hard to say.
—Dave
* * * * * * *
The Subs Club stories can be read in any order - jump in wherever you'd like!
Word 74,400; page 297
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2015
171 people are currently reading
1555 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Rock
52 books561 followersJ.A. Rock is the author or coauthor of over twenty LGBTQ romance, suspense, and horror novels, as well as an occasional contributor to HuffPo Queer Voices. J.A. has received Lambda Literary and INDIEFAB Award nominations for MINOTAUR, and THE SUBS CLUB received the 2016 National Leather Association-International Pauline Reage Novel Award. J.A. lives in Chicago with an extremely judgmental dog, Professor Anne Studebaker.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 332 reviews
February 29, 2016
Heaven! I was in heaven reading this book! Punishment and domestic discipline combined with humor?? Um, of COURSE I loved this one!
This is my ninth book by the talented J.A. Rock and my first 5-star for her. I think she simply hit it out of the park.
I have very specific tastes when it comes to my kinky books. I don't consider myself a BDSM reader because whips and chains do next to nothing for me. I'm not super into subspace,and a "yes sir" "no sir" type of MC sometimes doesn't work for me. What I'm really, REALLY into is discipline. I adore domestic discipline books, especially when there is a bratty sub. Like, really adore. I also love (looooooove) humiliation kink and daddy kink, which this book sort of lightly touched upon (). Anyway, this book falls in my BDSM comfort zone, and I'm sure that is one of the reasons that I loved it so much.
I'm not one for a lot of pictures or gifs in my reviews, but D, the disciplinarian, WAS RON SWANSON. I'm not even talking kind of, or a little bit, I'm talking WAS. Personality, looks, everything. Where I sort of thought that Nick Offerman was hot before (and though I never really considered Teddy Roosevelt hot... I mean, who does??), I now want to have a threesome with both of them. Anytime, fellas.
I've never found a mustache hot before, but this book... it's changed me. I don't think I can ever go back...
Awesome facial hair aside, the best part of this book was the humor. J.A. Rock is freakin' funny.
He set the potty-chair next to the toilet and the towels on top of a rack by the door.
I was liking this less and less. "Oh, I forgot to tell you, Sir. I am actually potty trained."
I read this line in bed next to my husband and was literally shaking with silent laughter, so much so that he kicked me out of bed for keeping him awake.
Miles grumbled. "Well, stick to hot sauce or ginger in the future if you're figging."
Kamen strummed his guitar, coming up with the chords for "Killing Me Softly."
"Figging me softly with hot sauce," he sang over the sounds of justice being served. "figging me so-oftly, with hot sauce."
The whole book is so funny. I'm seriously going to miss David's voice now that this book is done and another MC takes over the next book. He was a one-of-a-kind type of character, and I'll think of him for a long time to come.
But what makes this book so great is that it isn't just fun with no substance, it felt real and deep and emotional, too. It was all that and more, and I could read about the MCs in this book for ages.
If your reading tastes are like mine and you are a J.A. Rock fan, this isn't a book that you can miss. It is must read material for all lovers of a certain type of BDSM, and even if you aren't sure if it is something you would like, I think it's worth a try. This was J.A. Rock at her finest, and even though Pain Slut makes me nervous, I can't stop reading this series.
**Copy provided in exchange for an honest review**
This is my ninth book by the talented J.A. Rock and my first 5-star for her. I think she simply hit it out of the park.
I have very specific tastes when it comes to my kinky books. I don't consider myself a BDSM reader because whips and chains do next to nothing for me. I'm not super into subspace,and a "yes sir" "no sir" type of MC sometimes doesn't work for me. What I'm really, REALLY into is discipline. I adore domestic discipline books, especially when there is a bratty sub. Like, really adore. I also love (looooooove) humiliation kink and daddy kink, which this book sort of lightly touched upon (). Anyway, this book falls in my BDSM comfort zone, and I'm sure that is one of the reasons that I loved it so much.
I'm not one for a lot of pictures or gifs in my reviews, but D, the disciplinarian, WAS RON SWANSON. I'm not even talking kind of, or a little bit, I'm talking WAS. Personality, looks, everything. Where I sort of thought that Nick Offerman was hot before (and though I never really considered Teddy Roosevelt hot... I mean, who does??), I now want to have a threesome with both of them. Anytime, fellas.
I've never found a mustache hot before, but this book... it's changed me. I don't think I can ever go back...
Awesome facial hair aside, the best part of this book was the humor. J.A. Rock is freakin' funny.
He set the potty-chair next to the toilet and the towels on top of a rack by the door.
I was liking this less and less. "Oh, I forgot to tell you, Sir. I am actually potty trained."
I read this line in bed next to my husband and was literally shaking with silent laughter, so much so that he kicked me out of bed for keeping him awake.
Miles grumbled. "Well, stick to hot sauce or ginger in the future if you're figging."
Kamen strummed his guitar, coming up with the chords for "Killing Me Softly."
"Figging me softly with hot sauce," he sang over the sounds of justice being served. "figging me so-oftly, with hot sauce."
The whole book is so funny. I'm seriously going to miss David's voice now that this book is done and another MC takes over the next book. He was a one-of-a-kind type of character, and I'll think of him for a long time to come.
But what makes this book so great is that it isn't just fun with no substance, it felt real and deep and emotional, too. It was all that and more, and I could read about the MCs in this book for ages.
If your reading tastes are like mine and you are a J.A. Rock fan, this isn't a book that you can miss. It is must read material for all lovers of a certain type of BDSM, and even if you aren't sure if it is something you would like, I think it's worth a try. This was J.A. Rock at her finest, and even though Pain Slut makes me nervous, I can't stop reading this series.
**Copy provided in exchange for an honest review**
December 9, 2016
This Tumblr right here collects stories of all of the terrible Dominants out there that give Dom/mes everywhere a bad name.
On the surface it’s a hilarious collection of convos gone wrong with faux Doms, but beneath the surface it’s a pretty miserable affair. People are such assholes.
So this kind of stuff is exactly why the MC in The Subs Club, David, sets up a website where subs can rate the Doms they played with, and call out those who didn’t play safe. Ever since one of David’s close friends died during a breath play scene in a club, he and his other friends are trying to find a balance between making BDSM into a safety school special and playing as wild and vicariously as they'd like. Complicating factor is that David’s ability to trust Doms died along with his friend. His favorite club deciding to give the Dom that he holds accountable for that death a second chance, doesn’t help either. So yeah, He’s pretty much through with all of it. Except he can’t help but notice...
PORNSTACHE.
Pornstache doesn’t have much eye for David though. So it’s a good thing that the Burt Reynolds starring in Boogie Nights guy has a FetLife profile. In it he boldly states that only fit boys under 30 need apply (when Pornstache is not either of those things!). On top of that, when David contacts the man he also has the bloody nerve to lowercase david's name in his reply, and requests that he wears tighty whities upon their first meeting. It takes a whole lot less to lure out David’s recalcitrant side...
So this book is a lot of things bundled into one, and my rating reflects that. David’s narrative is absolutely the most brilliant thing about The Subs Club. He’s witty, sarcastic, hilarious, and so very quote-worthy. I couldn’t stop snickering!
As interesting as David’s sessions with Pornstache are though, the underlying plot-line of what it means to be part of the BDSM scene, and the handling of aspects like privacy, trust, social judgment, finding the D to your S and vice versa, and SSC play are equally important.
I think J.A. Rock did an awesome job exploring these aspects. The death of David's friend could easily have headed into melodramatic territory, but thankfully it never did. Not once did she climb on a soapbox to become all preachy through her characters (there’s little I hate more!). Instead she incorporated various concerns and dilemmas in the plot in an entirely natural manner, making The Subs Club into so much more than your 'hot little BDSM read next door' by yet another author who brings out the whips and cuffs, but is entirely lost on the essence of BDSM.
Now for David’s attraction to Pornstache, and him embarking on a domestic discipline adventure with the man: their scenes were neatly woven through the aforementioned bigger picture. I was excited to find out if and how David and his new Sir would hit it off. Not even because of the hot spanking and DD scenes (with a dash of humiliation, mmm, my fave!), but mostly because both David and Pornstache were ‘real’ personalities with their own insecurities and hang-ups.
David wasn’t the ‘Imma sub and a sub is all I am’ type I’ve grown weary of. The same goes for Pornstache, who wasn’t portrayed as the Alpha male Dom that the guys that are featured on the 'Too Dom For You' Tumblr sadly seem to think is the ideal. Perhaps it’s sad that J.A. Rock's characterization made me buzz with enthusiasm. After all, I wouldn't have been this impressed if the MM genre didn't appear to feature stereotypes as a rule. But, yeah, a tiny example:
And I’d totally expected, like the MC, yet another guy with a dramatic past.:)
In that regard, I also loved the diverse group of friends and how they didn't drift in and out of the story for the sake of the plot only. The (too often overlooked) small talk between David and his friends sparkled and entertained. As did the general descriptions of people (besides the descriptions of the obviously hot Pornstache, who totally got my motor running. Sue me!:p). Here we have a writer who knows how to write!
But hey, since writing gushing and raving ~~***~~~~ FIVE SIZZLING WIZZLING BEAUTIFULLY SUBMISSIVE ENEMA STARS ~~***~~~~ reviews doesn't come naturally to me, I'd like to end this review on a more glum note, by sharing a few more depressing FetLife encounters. You're welcome!
On the surface it’s a hilarious collection of convos gone wrong with faux Doms, but beneath the surface it’s a pretty miserable affair. People are such assholes.
So this kind of stuff is exactly why the MC in The Subs Club, David, sets up a website where subs can rate the Doms they played with, and call out those who didn’t play safe. Ever since one of David’s close friends died during a breath play scene in a club, he and his other friends are trying to find a balance between making BDSM into a safety school special and playing as wild and vicariously as they'd like. Complicating factor is that David’s ability to trust Doms died along with his friend. His favorite club deciding to give the Dom that he holds accountable for that death a second chance, doesn’t help either. So yeah, He’s pretty much through with all of it. Except he can’t help but notice...
PORNSTACHE.
“The less sophisticated parts of my brain had latched on to the least appropriate, most obviously heterosexual person in this club and had decided it was this man’s destiny to bend me over and scrub my asshole with that mustache.”
Pornstache doesn’t have much eye for David though. So it’s a good thing that the Burt Reynolds starring in Boogie Nights guy has a FetLife profile. In it he boldly states that only fit boys under 30 need apply (when Pornstache is not either of those things!). On top of that, when David contacts the man he also has the bloody nerve to lowercase david's name in his reply, and requests that he wears tighty whities upon their first meeting. It takes a whole lot less to lure out David’s recalcitrant side...
So this book is a lot of things bundled into one, and my rating reflects that. David’s narrative is absolutely the most brilliant thing about The Subs Club. He’s witty, sarcastic, hilarious, and so very quote-worthy. I couldn’t stop snickering!
I was digging the long-sleeved polo, jeans, and loafers in a yeah, daddy kind of way. He caught me staring, and his pornstache twitched slightly.
As interesting as David’s sessions with Pornstache are though, the underlying plot-line of what it means to be part of the BDSM scene, and the handling of aspects like privacy, trust, social judgment, finding the D to your S and vice versa, and SSC play are equally important.
I think J.A. Rock did an awesome job exploring these aspects. The death of David's friend could easily have headed into melodramatic territory, but thankfully it never did. Not once did she climb on a soapbox to become all preachy through her characters (there’s little I hate more!). Instead she incorporated various concerns and dilemmas in the plot in an entirely natural manner, making The Subs Club into so much more than your 'hot little BDSM read next door' by yet another author who brings out the whips and cuffs, but is entirely lost on the essence of BDSM.
Now for David’s attraction to Pornstache, and him embarking on a domestic discipline adventure with the man: their scenes were neatly woven through the aforementioned bigger picture. I was excited to find out if and how David and his new Sir would hit it off. Not even because of the hot spanking and DD scenes (with a dash of humiliation, mmm, my fave!), but mostly because both David and Pornstache were ‘real’ personalities with their own insecurities and hang-ups.
David wasn’t the ‘Imma sub and a sub is all I am’ type I’ve grown weary of. The same goes for Pornstache, who wasn’t portrayed as the Alpha male Dom that the guys that are featured on the 'Too Dom For You' Tumblr sadly seem to think is the ideal. Perhaps it’s sad that J.A. Rock's characterization made me buzz with enthusiasm. After all, I wouldn't have been this impressed if the MM genre didn't appear to feature stereotypes as a rule. But, yeah, a tiny example:
I studied him. “I’m gonna go with yes. But you’ve said before that marriage is the last refuge of the insecure. So I’m gonna say... married to a nice woman before you realized you liked guys? Messy divorce?” (...)
“Actually, my first boyfriend was in high school.”
And I’d totally expected, like the MC, yet another guy with a dramatic past.:)
In that regard, I also loved the diverse group of friends and how they didn't drift in and out of the story for the sake of the plot only. The (too often overlooked) small talk between David and his friends sparkled and entertained. As did the general descriptions of people (besides the descriptions of the obviously hot Pornstache, who totally got my motor running. Sue me!:p). Here we have a writer who knows how to write!
Vietnamese, 5’5, hairless, and so thin he could have worn a wedding ring as a belt, Ricky was new to the scene.
But hey, since writing gushing and raving ~~***~~~~ FIVE SIZZLING WIZZLING BEAUTIFULLY SUBMISSIVE ENEMA STARS ~~***~~~~ reviews doesn't come naturally to me, I'd like to end this review on a more glum note, by sharing a few more depressing FetLife encounters. You're welcome!
Read
November 26, 2015There's a lot I could say about this book but the most important one is that JA Rock appears to have given us Ron Swanson as a romance hero.
And I am 100% okay with that.
Actually let me say something borderline useful.
This is very much YKINMK territory for me, but essentially the mark of a talented writer is being able make something (and this could be anything, not just sexual preferences) emotionally accessible to someone who might not instinctively connect with it.
To put it another way, any bugger can write a book about something people love for people who love it.
I loved the human-ness and the vulnerability of the characters (yes both of them - I know, I know a human, vulnerable dom, angels and minsters of grace defend us). I love that they aren't the sort of people who usually get written about, in romance, and in m/m romance in particular. Ron Swanson, uh, Pornstache, uh Big D is ... amazing. A deconstruction of cliche turned into something real and special and lovely. I adored him. He made me laugh. I wanted to listen to him tell me about the decline of American masculinity and the majesty of the friesian. And then I want to cuddle the shit out of him.
The narrator is deeply charming. I appreciated a sub who was allowed to be things that subs in romance aren't usually allowed to be: bratty, assertive, wary, complicated.
I also very much appreciated the nuanced exploration of the BDSM scene: specifically the way the power dynamic between doms and subs validates abuse, and silences those who would speak out against it. While also recognising the importance of that community to those who participate in it. Such a fucking relief, though, to get away from the romancelandia-approved kinky klub of kinkiness where everything is perfect, nobody ever gets hurt and nothing smells of disinfectant.
I could write an essay on the way consent and boundaries - sexual, social and emotional - are negotiated in this book. The way it never flinches from the paradoxes inherent in BDSM: how something that can be abuse in one context and care in another. The way it gently peels away the surface of things that have becomes tropes, cliches, and shorthands to reveal, instead, their fragile, complex hearts.
Unusual, authentic, kinky as fuck, sweet as pie and funny as hell.
And I am 100% okay with that.
Actually let me say something borderline useful.
This is very much YKINMK territory for me, but essentially the mark of a talented writer is being able make something (and this could be anything, not just sexual preferences) emotionally accessible to someone who might not instinctively connect with it.
To put it another way, any bugger can write a book about something people love for people who love it.
I loved the human-ness and the vulnerability of the characters (yes both of them - I know, I know a human, vulnerable dom, angels and minsters of grace defend us). I love that they aren't the sort of people who usually get written about, in romance, and in m/m romance in particular. Ron Swanson, uh, Pornstache, uh Big D is ... amazing. A deconstruction of cliche turned into something real and special and lovely. I adored him. He made me laugh. I wanted to listen to him tell me about the decline of American masculinity and the majesty of the friesian. And then I want to cuddle the shit out of him.
The narrator is deeply charming. I appreciated a sub who was allowed to be things that subs in romance aren't usually allowed to be: bratty, assertive, wary, complicated.
I also very much appreciated the nuanced exploration of the BDSM scene: specifically the way the power dynamic between doms and subs validates abuse, and silences those who would speak out against it. While also recognising the importance of that community to those who participate in it. Such a fucking relief, though, to get away from the romancelandia-approved kinky klub of kinkiness where everything is perfect, nobody ever gets hurt and nothing smells of disinfectant.
I could write an essay on the way consent and boundaries - sexual, social and emotional - are negotiated in this book. The way it never flinches from the paradoxes inherent in BDSM: how something that can be abuse in one context and care in another. The way it gently peels away the surface of things that have becomes tropes, cliches, and shorthands to reveal, instead, their fragile, complex hearts.
Unusual, authentic, kinky as fuck, sweet as pie and funny as hell.
June 11, 2017
***I was provided with a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley.com, in exchange for honest feedback. ***
When I read the blurb for this book, I failed to realize that it was M/M erotica. Since that isn't my usual genre, I'm probably not the best person to objectively review this work. I don't have much experience with this genre, so I don't have much to compare this story to.
That being said, I have to admit that I really liked David, the bratty sub, and David, aka "The Disciplinarian". I thought that the verbal sparring and battle of wills between these two was hilarious. I spent a fair amount of time laughing at bratty David's antics.
Maybe it's just me, since I'm not an avid reader of M/M stories, but I was put off by "The Disciplinarian's" physical description. Honestly, I wanted to cringe at the thought of this guy involved in any sexual act. He was described as a "paunchy" Paul Bunyan wannabe, with a seventies mustache and a little dick. Ewww! Yuck, yuck, yuck!
Despite the entertaining dialogue, I just couldn't get past my revulsion toward the Dominant David. I also got pretty tired of the enemas and spankings. No matter how you change it up, I can only handle so many spankings in one book. This is a good choice for readers with a spanking fetish, but it wasn't for me.
Overall, I give it three stars. It wasn't for me, but had its good points. I have no doubt that if M/M stories were my thing, I would've liked it much more.
When I read the blurb for this book, I failed to realize that it was M/M erotica. Since that isn't my usual genre, I'm probably not the best person to objectively review this work. I don't have much experience with this genre, so I don't have much to compare this story to.
That being said, I have to admit that I really liked David, the bratty sub, and David, aka "The Disciplinarian". I thought that the verbal sparring and battle of wills between these two was hilarious. I spent a fair amount of time laughing at bratty David's antics.
Maybe it's just me, since I'm not an avid reader of M/M stories, but I was put off by "The Disciplinarian's" physical description. Honestly, I wanted to cringe at the thought of this guy involved in any sexual act. He was described as a "paunchy" Paul Bunyan wannabe, with a seventies mustache and a little dick. Ewww! Yuck, yuck, yuck!
Despite the entertaining dialogue, I just couldn't get past my revulsion toward the Dominant David. I also got pretty tired of the enemas and spankings. No matter how you change it up, I can only handle so many spankings in one book. This is a good choice for readers with a spanking fetish, but it wasn't for me.
Overall, I give it three stars. It wasn't for me, but had its good points. I have no doubt that if M/M stories were my thing, I would've liked it much more.
September 15, 2015
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
“I’m gonna redefine “battle of wills” for the Disciplinarian. Or I’m gonna bone him. It’s hard to say.”
Obviously this was not Mitchell’s idea of a good time. Luckily I have plenty of other reading buddies! This time it was Vixen’s turn . . .
Dear Nick Offerman, please accept my advance apologies for what I’m about to do to your image . . .
Nope. Can’t do it. You see, “The Disciplinarian” in The Subs Club WAS Ron Swanson. Well, okay his name was really David but he was totally Ron Swanson. Not only was he a lover of fine whiskey . . .
But I DARE you to not hear any of the following in Ron’s voice:
“What do you like?”
He breathed deeply and closed his eyes for a second. “Woodworking.” . . . .
EXHIBIT A:
“Is that all?”
“No. Bacon.”
EXHIBITS B, C, AND D:
“And . . . .?”
“Silence.”
He IS Ron F-ing Swanson. And I wanna bone him. If you don’t share my opinion, this book might not end up being so magical for you. You should also get your head checked because Ron Swanson is hawt and young David agrees . . .
“Your facial hair is stupid, but I still want your penis inside me.”
(Yes, both MCs are named David. And no, it never gets confusing.)
I guess I should probably explain what this book is about at some point rather than just swooning over the verility which is the Offerman, so here goes. One of David’s best pals died during sub/dom play a year ago – and the incompetent man who was the cause of said death walked away scot-free. When David sees the “murderer” at a local club actively engaging in more play he comes up with the idea of The Subs Club – sort of an “Angie’s List” for subs to talk about their experiences. David sets his sites on the biggest a-hole in town, “The Disciplanarian,” a guy who has advertised that he is always in control, there will never be a safeword, and the game ends when he says it does. What David never expected to find was an actual attraction to the man behind the pornstache, as well as a craving for some real discipline that might make him get his shit together . . .
If you know me you’ll know that I am soooooooooooooo not the target demographic for this book. I am old. I am straight. I have been married for 12,000 years. My reaction to sex scenes usually goes a little like this . . .
Yet somehow I loved this book. It was smart and funny and well-written and it was just there without being apologetic or over explanatory when it came to any of the characters’ ways of thinking or actions. I lapped it right up . . .
and I’m giving it all the stars. I’m also totally going to bump the hell out of this review on release date so everyone else will be reminded to read it too. Don’t even care.
Now someone go write me a Nick Offerman making the sexy with Adam Scott Parks & Rec fanfic.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
“I’m gonna redefine “battle of wills” for the Disciplinarian. Or I’m gonna bone him. It’s hard to say.”
Obviously this was not Mitchell’s idea of a good time. Luckily I have plenty of other reading buddies! This time it was Vixen’s turn . . .
Dear Nick Offerman, please accept my advance apologies for what I’m about to do to your image . . .
Nope. Can’t do it. You see, “The Disciplinarian” in The Subs Club WAS Ron Swanson. Well, okay his name was really David but he was totally Ron Swanson. Not only was he a lover of fine whiskey . . .
But I DARE you to not hear any of the following in Ron’s voice:
“What do you like?”
He breathed deeply and closed his eyes for a second. “Woodworking.” . . . .
EXHIBIT A:
“Is that all?”
“No. Bacon.”
EXHIBITS B, C, AND D:
“And . . . .?”
“Silence.”
He IS Ron F-ing Swanson. And I wanna bone him. If you don’t share my opinion, this book might not end up being so magical for you. You should also get your head checked because Ron Swanson is hawt and young David agrees . . .
“Your facial hair is stupid, but I still want your penis inside me.”
(Yes, both MCs are named David. And no, it never gets confusing.)
I guess I should probably explain what this book is about at some point rather than just swooning over the verility which is the Offerman, so here goes. One of David’s best pals died during sub/dom play a year ago – and the incompetent man who was the cause of said death walked away scot-free. When David sees the “murderer” at a local club actively engaging in more play he comes up with the idea of The Subs Club – sort of an “Angie’s List” for subs to talk about their experiences. David sets his sites on the biggest a-hole in town, “The Disciplanarian,” a guy who has advertised that he is always in control, there will never be a safeword, and the game ends when he says it does. What David never expected to find was an actual attraction to the man behind the pornstache, as well as a craving for some real discipline that might make him get his shit together . . .
If you know me you’ll know that I am soooooooooooooo not the target demographic for this book. I am old. I am straight. I have been married for 12,000 years. My reaction to sex scenes usually goes a little like this . . .
Yet somehow I loved this book. It was smart and funny and well-written and it was just there without being apologetic or over explanatory when it came to any of the characters’ ways of thinking or actions. I lapped it right up . . .
and I’m giving it all the stars. I’m also totally going to bump the hell out of this review on release date so everyone else will be reminded to read it too. Don’t even care.
Now someone go write me a Nick Offerman making the sexy with Adam Scott Parks & Rec fanfic.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
November 26, 2016
BR with The Adam even though we both suck hard at the whole buddy reading deal we keep trying. Because we're not quitters! Or something.
I loved this book for numerous reasons but I keep coming back to one, which is I love that it debunks the myth that doms are omniscient. That shit annoys me. Body language and experience only go so far before actual words are needed. And it's not only done organically but deftly and with humor.
This book made me cackle til my sides hurt. Dave tells the story from his POV and his internal musings with their pop culture references swaddled in sarcasm had me in stitches. Each of these characters are so well composed, each with his own distinct personality and all with books coming! I have so much excite about this series I need to find some self control.
*obscene hand gesture (at GR)*
Or a metric ton of wine. Whatever works.
Dave, or Little d as I like to call him, forms the Subs Club after the death of his friend, Hal. While it may seem like something you'd get a free Jared sandwich with, the Subs Club's purpose is actually to protect subs and bottoms from abusive, careless and just plain ole bad doms with a rating system and an open forum to discuss concerns within the BDSM community. Naturally word gets out to said doms and things move from acrimonious to Norman Bates in 2.8 seconds.
The dangers within BDSM isn't the only weighty topic addressed in this book it also tackles privacy rights, the grief process, the inherent faults in a rating system and the need for moderators who have the capacity to defuse volatile topics and, ultimately, utilize conflict resolution skills to maintain an open dialogue.
Weighty stuff wrapped up in hotness and humor.
When you have a group of people who aren't blood related but are a family is one of my favorite types of series. This first book is a fantastic introduction to a series of this type and, I gotta be honest, DD doesn't hold a lot of interest for me. Yet I still loved the BEJEEPERS out of this! All of the core group are introduced-Miles, Gould, Kamen *makes kissy noises* and, of course, Little d. We get a sense of each of them, their kinks and... surprise surprise... Cupcake made a love connection.
I want him to write a song for me called 'Cupcake' to the music of Spandau Ballet's "True". GO!
Pornstache and Little d because both their names are David or D2 are the stars of this installment. Pornstache has a whole "manly man" thing going for him which inspires all sorts of 70s themed porn like fantasies in Little D complete with shag carpet and rust colored bell bottoms. Big D a.k.a. The Baconator oops, I mean The Disciplinarian takes on Little d for 6 sessions.
Little d is a Bratosaurus but he is hilarious and he's actually sweet underneath all that false bravado. He's loyal and would do anything for his friends even if he does bungle it a bit. Communication isn't his strong suit, but my heart went out to him and I was rooting for him to Get. His. Man. He and Big D have chemistry that endeared them both to me. I've seen Big D compared to the guy from Parks and Recreation in other reviews. I've not seen that show, so I couldn't say. I couldn't get the Brawny towel guy divided by Burt Reynolds circa 1977 out of my head. I wonder if he drives a Trans Am... At any rate, his wit is dry as toast and also hilarious. They have the sort of relationship that taps directly into my gooey center...
Poor choice of words is poor. And awkward.
Aaaaannnnnyyyyway they both bring something to the relationship and those somethings compliment each other. And their kinky times were BOSS and inspirational. *eyebrow waggle* Vick's Vap-O-Rub will never just be for chest congestion ever again.
They are also poignant at times. In their lurve.
Bottom Line: Much Excite about this series!
You should read it. It's feel good and awesome.
An ARC was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book for numerous reasons but I keep coming back to one, which is I love that it debunks the myth that doms are omniscient. That shit annoys me. Body language and experience only go so far before actual words are needed. And it's not only done organically but deftly and with humor.
This book made me cackle til my sides hurt. Dave tells the story from his POV and his internal musings with their pop culture references swaddled in sarcasm had me in stitches. Each of these characters are so well composed, each with his own distinct personality and all with books coming! I have so much excite about this series I need to find some self control.
*obscene hand gesture (at GR)* Or a metric ton of wine. Whatever works.
Dave, or Little d as I like to call him, forms the Subs Club after the death of his friend, Hal. While it may seem like something you'd get a free Jared sandwich with, the Subs Club's purpose is actually to protect subs and bottoms from abusive, careless and just plain ole bad doms with a rating system and an open forum to discuss concerns within the BDSM community. Naturally word gets out to said doms and things move from acrimonious to Norman Bates in 2.8 seconds.
The dangers within BDSM isn't the only weighty topic addressed in this book it also tackles privacy rights, the grief process, the inherent faults in a rating system and the need for moderators who have the capacity to defuse volatile topics and, ultimately, utilize conflict resolution skills to maintain an open dialogue.
Weighty stuff wrapped up in hotness and humor.
When you have a group of people who aren't blood related but are a family is one of my favorite types of series. This first book is a fantastic introduction to a series of this type and, I gotta be honest, DD doesn't hold a lot of interest for me. Yet I still loved the BEJEEPERS out of this! All of the core group are introduced-Miles, Gould, Kamen *makes kissy noises* and, of course, Little d. We get a sense of each of them, their kinks and... surprise surprise... Cupcake made a love connection.
I want him to write a song for me called 'Cupcake' to the music of Spandau Ballet's "True". GO!
Pornstache and Little d 4evs.
Pornstache and Little d because both their names are David or D2 are the stars of this installment. Pornstache has a whole "manly man" thing going for him which inspires all sorts of 70s themed porn like fantasies in Little D complete with shag carpet and rust colored bell bottoms. Big D a.k.a. The Baconator oops, I mean The Disciplinarian takes on Little d for 6 sessions.
Little d is a Bratosaurus but he is hilarious and he's actually sweet underneath all that false bravado. He's loyal and would do anything for his friends even if he does bungle it a bit. Communication isn't his strong suit, but my heart went out to him and I was rooting for him to Get. His. Man. He and Big D have chemistry that endeared them both to me. I've seen Big D compared to the guy from Parks and Recreation in other reviews. I've not seen that show, so I couldn't say. I couldn't get the Brawny towel guy divided by Burt Reynolds circa 1977 out of my head. I wonder if he drives a Trans Am... At any rate, his wit is dry as toast and also hilarious. They have the sort of relationship that taps directly into my gooey center...
Poor choice of words is poor. And awkward.
Aaaaannnnnyyyyway they both bring something to the relationship and those somethings compliment each other. And their kinky times were BOSS and inspirational. *eyebrow waggle* Vick's Vap-O-Rub will never just be for chest congestion ever again.
Maybe, I thought, there was something at least a little brave, a little grown-up, about knowing what you needed and asking for it. About being vulnerable in front of people who could cover you with a new kind of strength. A strength that wasn't about hiding your moments of fear and uncertainty and stupidity, but was about being a whole person, boldly.
They are also poignant at times. In their lurve.
Bottom Line: Much Excite about this series!
You should read it. It's feel good and awesome.
An ARC was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2016
I have such ambivalent feelings for this book I have had a very hard time to come to a proper conclusion. My overall sentiment is that this story is not my cuppa. Not at all. This is my first J.A. Rock.
The first 10% of the book was the most frivolous and carefree tale I have ever read in my whole life. At least it makes it into the top10. I was honestly considering quitting because even though I love laughing and sometimes I feel like reading PWP novels here I feared I wouldn't be able to swallow the these pages and keep reading because I was rolling my eyes a little too often, if I wasn't wasting my energy in concealing an expression of disbelief. I felt the author was making such a HUGE effort to make fun of the situation and the characters that I could almost see her sweating rivers and wracking her brains just to write one simple sentence that could bring us a smile. This story is too exaggerated for my taste, it would never happen in real life, at least not in my real life. It seemed a flippant book and the sense of humor didn't help because the jokes were very puerile and obvious. I still decided to go on.
It improved a little, I think it was due to myself adapting to it than the other way around, but I could never get into it fully. The BDSM world here is shown as something trivial and unimportant, with superficial relationships and opportunistic chances to get off. It's the total opposite of Power Exchange, where I could feel WHY people get into this enigmatic universe. There I could see their needs and how those needs are fulfilled and how those same needs can't be fulfilled elsewhere. I felt at ease with the characters, with their longings and desires. I could feel their connection, their support for each other, their two-way communication and I could feel the transcendence of their bond and I could breathe in it. But I couldn't feel it here, I had the impression David is just fooling around and although I have nothing against it I couldn't help thinking he was such a brat that takes nothing seriously. And when I mean nothing I mean exactly that. Playing it all down, he showed me a version of the BDSM world I didn't like because it was too shallow and some of the magic was lost. Everything was a joke here and I need to find some kind of... soul to be moved. It was as if BDSM was a hobby like collecting Pokemon rather than a way of life. So banal it became irritating.
This all crashes with the fact that Dave is obsessed with his friend's death, Hal. He is so obsessed he has controlled his instincts and is more careful about choosing partners. Supposedly. But I didn't feel it that way because he meets someone he thinks is ridiculous and still agrees to play. Just shrugs it off and goes for it. He was so easy in my eyes, but not in a Don Juan cool way, but in a seedy and embarrassing way.
David decides to start a blog with his friends. The blog, The Subs Club is formed by bottoms and subs to discuss doms' abuses and prevent future dangers. It's a good idea at first but of course it gets out of hand eventually. There had to be a moral in this story and there is one. Meanwhile, he meets the Disciplinarian, or Pornstache, or D, or David (how come I have never read M/M book before where both MC had the same name? I'm impressed the author came up with this and decided to go on with the idea), and this is when the fun begins. D is not one for small talk, and Dave of course never shuts up. D is socially awkward whereas Dave is mischievous and amusing. D likes to teach naughty boys how to behave and Dave is dying for being chastised in creative ways.
And then we reach another issue I had with this book. I think none of the hot scenes could be called hot. I didn't find them sexy and they didn't inspire me. In some I was disgusted and curious in equal parts. Morbid always works with me. And there is a certain moment that was very inventive. But overall, I found no satisfaction in them apart from a smile or two. I never felt this was a real BDSM relationship, the atmosphere was more comical than sexual and that was distracting. I never felt that Dave really wants to submit to D, he just wants to annoy him. Which was funny. But not hot.
So I decided that was it. I don't do frivolous but I do enjoy the Bridget Jones's Diary movie. The Subs Club was a chick-lit kind of book, from my view. And that made it easier, if I wasn't going to be touched, let's have some fun, right? Once I accepted this I could enjoy this a little more. For instance, I liked Dave's friends. Gould is cute, Miles is disturbing and Kamen is goofy. Not sure who I liked the most. I even liked Ricky. Yes, they were not very deep, maybe because they fit a certain model and don't move from there. But their banter and interactions were funny and ridiculously beautiful. I can almost say I enjoyed these scenes more than the love ones, which were very lacking for me.
Once the characters come up with it, I wanted to know what Domestic Discipline implies because this issue is new for me, but I don't have a clearer idea in my head after I finished this book. I'd like to look somewhere else.
So, all in all, it was a total miss for me. The problem is that everything was off for me: the love, the sex and the sense of humor. I recommend to read other reviews before deciding to choose this one or not.
After reading my own review once again I've decided this is more a 1-star book than a 2-star one.
***Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
The first 10% of the book was the most frivolous and carefree tale I have ever read in my whole life. At least it makes it into the top10. I was honestly considering quitting because even though I love laughing and sometimes I feel like reading PWP novels here I feared I wouldn't be able to swallow the these pages and keep reading because I was rolling my eyes a little too often, if I wasn't wasting my energy in concealing an expression of disbelief. I felt the author was making such a HUGE effort to make fun of the situation and the characters that I could almost see her sweating rivers and wracking her brains just to write one simple sentence that could bring us a smile. This story is too exaggerated for my taste, it would never happen in real life, at least not in my real life. It seemed a flippant book and the sense of humor didn't help because the jokes were very puerile and obvious. I still decided to go on.
It improved a little, I think it was due to myself adapting to it than the other way around, but I could never get into it fully. The BDSM world here is shown as something trivial and unimportant, with superficial relationships and opportunistic chances to get off. It's the total opposite of Power Exchange, where I could feel WHY people get into this enigmatic universe. There I could see their needs and how those needs are fulfilled and how those same needs can't be fulfilled elsewhere. I felt at ease with the characters, with their longings and desires. I could feel their connection, their support for each other, their two-way communication and I could feel the transcendence of their bond and I could breathe in it. But I couldn't feel it here, I had the impression David is just fooling around and although I have nothing against it I couldn't help thinking he was such a brat that takes nothing seriously. And when I mean nothing I mean exactly that. Playing it all down, he showed me a version of the BDSM world I didn't like because it was too shallow and some of the magic was lost. Everything was a joke here and I need to find some kind of... soul to be moved. It was as if BDSM was a hobby like collecting Pokemon rather than a way of life. So banal it became irritating.
This all crashes with the fact that Dave is obsessed with his friend's death, Hal. He is so obsessed he has controlled his instincts and is more careful about choosing partners. Supposedly. But I didn't feel it that way because he meets someone he thinks is ridiculous and still agrees to play. Just shrugs it off and goes for it. He was so easy in my eyes, but not in a Don Juan cool way, but in a seedy and embarrassing way.
David decides to start a blog with his friends. The blog, The Subs Club is formed by bottoms and subs to discuss doms' abuses and prevent future dangers. It's a good idea at first but of course it gets out of hand eventually. There had to be a moral in this story and there is one. Meanwhile, he meets the Disciplinarian, or Pornstache, or D, or David (how come I have never read M/M book before where both MC had the same name? I'm impressed the author came up with this and decided to go on with the idea), and this is when the fun begins. D is not one for small talk, and Dave of course never shuts up. D is socially awkward whereas Dave is mischievous and amusing. D likes to teach naughty boys how to behave and Dave is dying for being chastised in creative ways.
And then we reach another issue I had with this book. I think none of the hot scenes could be called hot. I didn't find them sexy and they didn't inspire me. In some I was disgusted and curious in equal parts. Morbid always works with me. And there is a certain moment that was very inventive. But overall, I found no satisfaction in them apart from a smile or two. I never felt this was a real BDSM relationship, the atmosphere was more comical than sexual and that was distracting. I never felt that Dave really wants to submit to D, he just wants to annoy him. Which was funny. But not hot.
So I decided that was it. I don't do frivolous but I do enjoy the Bridget Jones's Diary movie. The Subs Club was a chick-lit kind of book, from my view. And that made it easier, if I wasn't going to be touched, let's have some fun, right? Once I accepted this I could enjoy this a little more. For instance, I liked Dave's friends. Gould is cute, Miles is disturbing and Kamen is goofy. Not sure who I liked the most. I even liked Ricky. Yes, they were not very deep, maybe because they fit a certain model and don't move from there. But their banter and interactions were funny and ridiculously beautiful. I can almost say I enjoyed these scenes more than the love ones, which were very lacking for me.
Once the characters come up with it, I wanted to know what Domestic Discipline implies because this issue is new for me, but I don't have a clearer idea in my head after I finished this book. I'd like to look somewhere else.
So, all in all, it was a total miss for me. The problem is that everything was off for me: the love, the sex and the sense of humor. I recommend to read other reviews before deciding to choose this one or not.
After reading my own review once again I've decided this is more a 1-star book than a 2-star one.
***Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
October 12, 2015
*** 3.5 Stars ***
I know, I know… you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover. But the instant this simple, graphic argyle print crossed my Facebook feed with the words “Subs” and “J.A. Rock” attached to it, I was practically dry humping my bookshelf in anticipation of its release. I love books with D/s and DD themes and am a big fan of Rock’s previous books that explore the many flavours of the BDSM world, so I was expecting big things from the first book in her new series.
What I got was both far more and far less than I had anticipated.
When the book opens, David and his tightknit group of friends are still reeling from the death of their friend Hal, who died the previous year in a breath play scene gone wrong. They’re all doing their best to return their lives to some semblance of normalcy, part of which is returning to the scene – including the club where Hal was killed.
But when David, Gould, Kamen, and Miles show up at Riddle one night to reclaim this piece of themselves, David immediately discovers that a club that used to offer him a safe place to be himself and explore his desires, has welcomed Hal’s killer back with open arms. Sure, sure, they mutter about “tragic accidents” and “healing the community,” but all David can see is Bill Henson walking around putting other subs in danger while Hal is dead and buried.
Of course, Bill Henson isn’t the only person that David spies at the club that night. No, he also locks eyes with Pornstache, a daddy type with a 1970s Burt Reynolds vibe. Sadly, the root beer swilling real life incarnation of the Brawny Paper Towel Man won’t give David the time of day and ends up leaving the club without saying a single word to him.
Well, no brat worth a paddling is going to take that level of brush off lying down, least of all David. So what’s a kinky boy to do? Stalk him online using his Fetmatch profile and goad him into taking him on as a sub, of course!
This book was really all about two elements for me – the characters and the humour.
On the surface, David was this stereotypical bratty sub. He was probably outlandish and snarky long before Hal’s death, but it’s clear from the start that the snark is masking a lot of pain resulting from the events of that night. David’s brattiness feels somewhat manic. Desperate. Searching. But he’s also extremely irreverent and quick-witted, and his one liners had me laughing non-stop. He’s a complicated man, our David.
The other David (or D, to keep things clear for the purpose of this review) is not your typical leading man either; he’s slightly paunchy, has an underwhelming cock, and rocks a beyond questionable pornstache… on purpose. He works a mediocre job, doesn’t have any friends, and is the manliest of manly men – he idolizes Davy Crockett, tans his own leather, and eschews manties, safewords, and contractions.
He also stumbles plenty as he navigates the kinky world of BDSM.
And yet somehow this makes me love him more than if he were the brawny chested, Doc Marten wearing, natural Dom of so many other BDSM novels. He’s real (or, at least as real as a grown man with a Friesian fetish can seem).
In fact, both Davids seems like your everyman – the guy who works at the coffee cart in your mall, and who you’d probably never know likes to be collared and bark like a puppy on Saturday nights. I loved that even after reading thousands of novels, these characters and their relationship with one another still felt fresh, and their dynamic intensely their own.
But Rock’s fantastic characterization didn’t stop with David and D. One of the true highlights of the book for me was the bond between these four friends, David, Gould, Kamen, and Miles (but especially between Gould and David). They each leapt off the page as full-formed characters right from minute one, and I love that they laughed and bickered and loved each other in such an authentic way. Our kinks might not align, but I can’t wait to read their books and discover more about each of them!
Unfortunately, not everything about this book worked for me. In fact, it was the things that I had eagerly anticipated that turned out to be the biggest disappointments.
For starters, I generally expect BDSM books to be fuck hot. I may be fairly vanilla in real life, but in my erotica, I enjoy a healthy dose of kink. Unfortunately, for a BDSM book that played into some of my favourite kinks – discipline, spankings, and a little humiliation – nothing about The Subs Club sent me running for a cold shower. Nothing. Seriously. It was like a 3 out of 10 on the steam scale, and that is a crying shame. It’s like being stood up on prom night. Not cool, bro. Not cool.
I also felt as if the book’s HEA/HFN was a little lackluster and unresolved. I know the characters had only been together a few weeks, but I still wanted to gooey declarations at the end. I know this isn't a romcom, but I hate when a main character realizes they’re in love (or, at least love adjacent) and never actually says the words to the person that matters most. It’s like an ice bath for my heart boner.
So while I’m still looking forward to the rest of this series, this book didn’t quite come out on top as one of my favourites by J.A. Rock.
Please note that an ARC of The Subs Club was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I know, I know… you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover. But the instant this simple, graphic argyle print crossed my Facebook feed with the words “Subs” and “J.A. Rock” attached to it, I was practically dry humping my bookshelf in anticipation of its release. I love books with D/s and DD themes and am a big fan of Rock’s previous books that explore the many flavours of the BDSM world, so I was expecting big things from the first book in her new series.
What I got was both far more and far less than I had anticipated.
When the book opens, David and his tightknit group of friends are still reeling from the death of their friend Hal, who died the previous year in a breath play scene gone wrong. They’re all doing their best to return their lives to some semblance of normalcy, part of which is returning to the scene – including the club where Hal was killed.
But when David, Gould, Kamen, and Miles show up at Riddle one night to reclaim this piece of themselves, David immediately discovers that a club that used to offer him a safe place to be himself and explore his desires, has welcomed Hal’s killer back with open arms. Sure, sure, they mutter about “tragic accidents” and “healing the community,” but all David can see is Bill Henson walking around putting other subs in danger while Hal is dead and buried.
Of course, Bill Henson isn’t the only person that David spies at the club that night. No, he also locks eyes with Pornstache, a daddy type with a 1970s Burt Reynolds vibe. Sadly, the root beer swilling real life incarnation of the Brawny Paper Towel Man won’t give David the time of day and ends up leaving the club without saying a single word to him.
Well, no brat worth a paddling is going to take that level of brush off lying down, least of all David. So what’s a kinky boy to do? Stalk him online using his Fetmatch profile and goad him into taking him on as a sub, of course!
This book was really all about two elements for me – the characters and the humour.
On the surface, David was this stereotypical bratty sub. He was probably outlandish and snarky long before Hal’s death, but it’s clear from the start that the snark is masking a lot of pain resulting from the events of that night. David’s brattiness feels somewhat manic. Desperate. Searching. But he’s also extremely irreverent and quick-witted, and his one liners had me laughing non-stop. He’s a complicated man, our David.
The other David (or D, to keep things clear for the purpose of this review) is not your typical leading man either; he’s slightly paunchy, has an underwhelming cock, and rocks a beyond questionable pornstache… on purpose. He works a mediocre job, doesn’t have any friends, and is the manliest of manly men – he idolizes Davy Crockett, tans his own leather, and eschews manties, safewords, and contractions.
He also stumbles plenty as he navigates the kinky world of BDSM.
And yet somehow this makes me love him more than if he were the brawny chested, Doc Marten wearing, natural Dom of so many other BDSM novels. He’s real (or, at least as real as a grown man with a Friesian fetish can seem).
In fact, both Davids seems like your everyman – the guy who works at the coffee cart in your mall, and who you’d probably never know likes to be collared and bark like a puppy on Saturday nights. I loved that even after reading thousands of novels, these characters and their relationship with one another still felt fresh, and their dynamic intensely their own.
But Rock’s fantastic characterization didn’t stop with David and D. One of the true highlights of the book for me was the bond between these four friends, David, Gould, Kamen, and Miles (but especially between Gould and David). They each leapt off the page as full-formed characters right from minute one, and I love that they laughed and bickered and loved each other in such an authentic way. Our kinks might not align, but I can’t wait to read their books and discover more about each of them!
Unfortunately, not everything about this book worked for me. In fact, it was the things that I had eagerly anticipated that turned out to be the biggest disappointments.
For starters, I generally expect BDSM books to be fuck hot. I may be fairly vanilla in real life, but in my erotica, I enjoy a healthy dose of kink. Unfortunately, for a BDSM book that played into some of my favourite kinks – discipline, spankings, and a little humiliation – nothing about The Subs Club sent me running for a cold shower. Nothing. Seriously. It was like a 3 out of 10 on the steam scale, and that is a crying shame. It’s like being stood up on prom night. Not cool, bro. Not cool.
I also felt as if the book’s HEA/HFN was a little lackluster and unresolved. I know the characters had only been together a few weeks, but I still wanted to gooey declarations at the end. I know this isn't a romcom, but I hate when a main character realizes they’re in love (or, at least love adjacent) and never actually says the words to the person that matters most. It’s like an ice bath for my heart boner.
So while I’m still looking forward to the rest of this series, this book didn’t quite come out on top as one of my favourites by J.A. Rock.
Please note that an ARC of The Subs Club was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2015
I loved this book. It’s funny, well written and so damn quotable. It had me highlighting like crazy and cackling out loud.
A year after losing a friend to a BDSM scene gone wrong, David along with his friends Kamen, Gould and Miles, start the Subs Club, a blog where they and other submissives can rate and discuss doms they’ve played with and warn each other of those that make them feel unsafe. David sees it as a way to look after his friends.
David decides that he’s going to play with and then rate a dom that calls himself the Disciplinarian, or D, because he’s obviously a douche, even if he is “pornstachily handsome.”
I loved David. He’s hilarious and fantastically sarcastic. This book is all about him trying to overcome his fears and trust issues that have crept in ever since his friend died.
Then there’s D. He’s a sexy dom with a pornstache and a love of bacon and cheesy Syfy movies. What’s not to love?
I do feel like the ending was a little too abrupt, though. I just wanted a little bit more and give me that assured HEA but I’m sure we’ll see more of this couple in the next book. I can’t wait!
I leave you with my favorite quote:
**Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
"We’re like the Baby-Sitters Club. Except instead of babysitting, we’re face-sitting."
A year after losing a friend to a BDSM scene gone wrong, David along with his friends Kamen, Gould and Miles, start the Subs Club, a blog where they and other submissives can rate and discuss doms they’ve played with and warn each other of those that make them feel unsafe. David sees it as a way to look after his friends.
David decides that he’s going to play with and then rate a dom that calls himself the Disciplinarian, or D, because he’s obviously a douche, even if he is “pornstachily handsome.”
"What a dick. I can’t believe I wanted to feel his mustache in all my secret places.”
I loved David. He’s hilarious and fantastically sarcastic. This book is all about him trying to overcome his fears and trust issues that have crept in ever since his friend died.
Then there’s D. He’s a sexy dom with a pornstache and a love of bacon and cheesy Syfy movies. What’s not to love?
“Better than bacon?’ I ground out.
"Nothing is better than bacon. But ripping the last ounce of control from someone is as close to bacon as you can get.”
I do feel like the ending was a little too abrupt, though. I just wanted a little bit more and give me that assured HEA but I’m sure we’ll see more of this couple in the next book. I can’t wait!
I leave you with my favorite quote:
"I like, wanted to have his children and shave his face but also feel his mustache sanding my balls and have him teach me how to smoke venison. It was a bounty of contradictions."
**Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Read
December 22, 2015I second wesley's review. His has gifs. Go look at them.
v. well written. I cried on and off through the whole thing (YMMV. I'm pretty sure that wasn't Rock's intention. But I am apparently emotionally tender at present).
***
Oh, FFS, December? *whines and huffs*
Gonna be a buddy read with KatieMc and whoever else wants in
v. well written. I cried on and off through the whole thing (YMMV. I'm pretty sure that wasn't Rock's intention. But I am apparently emotionally tender at present).
***
Oh, FFS, December? *whines and huffs*
Gonna be a buddy read with KatieMc and whoever else wants in
December 10, 2015
This will have to settle first.
Okay. It has settled a bit.
I expected to read this and end up with 2* or maybe 3* and potentially a meh-kind of verdict as I wasn't so bowled over by the premise. Unfortunately it quickly went downhill from there, and I mean within sight of the first page. It didn't get any better either, in fact, towards the end I was thoroughly angered.
But let's start with the pros:
- this was technically well-edited, which these days is a real plus.
- I liked big D. To me he was the one genuine and realistic character in the whole book, and I'd have liked reading something more solid and better just about him and how he links up with someone worth the while. By the way, I associated Al Borland with him, not Ron Swanson:
And that's it regarding the pro-points, I'm afraid.
With which we come to the cons:
- Kink-shaming is icky. Yes, I noticed that the author may be trying to foreshadow conflict in one of the later books of this series, but believe me, I definitely won't be reading any more of them. Hence I am stuck with the impression that the author willfully puts kink-shaming words in the mouth of her main character without subverting them. It reads as if this kink-shaming is supported and just fine. And that will be the impression of many who like me won't read on.
- The jokes and one-liners fell flat for me. Nothing of this was funny, nothing humorous, not in the slightest. Instead I quickly was extremely enervated in a reaction similar to the one I had towards "Shattered Glass". Humour doesn't necessarily translate well across cultures, and - here the content editor is at fault - at least 80% of the references and punchlines were lost on me. They simply aren't part of my cultural identity and life. All this did, was irritate.
- The subs club four (Kamen, Miles, Dave, Gould) came across as silly, downright infantile slackers. There was no way I could positively align their ages with their behaviour. They came across as younger than 14 or 15, which wasn't endearing any of them to me. I don't think these four are in any way representative of the typical subs I know, who all tend to be competent, educated or at least professionally successful and outside of BDSM self-assured and capable. Which means, to me, that representing subs in such a manner is rather offensive to submissives per se.
- And while we are at "offensive"... Not one BDSMer in this story was described as a halfway normal, legit person. All came across as freaks, painted with a rather negative and unkind brush. A freak show to - apparently - amuse the straight vanilla readers of this book, and that really went down the wrong way for me. It felt mean-spirited, and not funny. For a funny and self-ironical look at the idiosyncrasies of BDSMers I suggest An Old-Fashioned Love Song for instance. Grant has it down to a T, whereas this here went too far without the needed gentleness.
- In most if not all US states killings, especially those involving BDSM, are treated as (accidental) manslaughter. People will see a trial, they commonly will be sentenced, and few of them go free (if any at all). I did a quick online survey of cases, and I found none who under the described circumstances went scotfree. Instead there are, even in countries like Sweden where BDSM is legal, verdicts up to 16 years for manslaughter caused by neglect or gross neglect. In the UK, where even a bruise could put you behind bars or on a sex offender list if the judge feels like it, it is even more unlikely. So, the manslaughter this book is based on is not treated realistically at all.
- Apropos realistically: where was the dungeon monitor and where the dungeon master during that session? And I know of no party organiser hereabouts who would invite back a top acting with such gross neglect. The normal behaviour would have been to either call someone to Hal's side, or to send someone to fetch water.
- None of the described sessions, none of the sex was in any way erotic. Yes, I get that BDSM isn't necessarily sex-oriented, I myself don't mix BDSM and sex, but in a book published as a romance/erotic romance I really expect me at least one or two scenes which get me going.
- Politics: this is my biggest criticism. This whole book feels like the author is riding her personal hobbyhorse. It feels as if she has an agenda, and is trying to drive her point home. For one thing, neither the manslaughter, nor its aftermath have been represented realistically. For another, everyone behaves like cardboard cutouts of scene stereotypes, and indeed, like negative scene stereotypes. And for a third, like in so many books written by either BDSMers or people at least frequenting Fetlife, this book also engages in some mystification of old leather and how things were better then, than they are now.
As a result the real issue which allegedly was at the heart of this book gets belittled. Which is what angered me seriously while reading the last few pages: no one needs a safeword. The word "no" is all it takes when there are no CNC (consensual non-con) scenes taking place. Doing entirely away with the ability to stop a scene however, especially in the case of someone who is so traumatised and so wet behind his ears as Dave, isn't CNC, it is TPE and makes the play non-con the moment he wants out and isn't listened to.
Consent within BDSM is only valid when it can be withdrawn at any moment. Implying, as it is done in this book, that "the real and the helpful" BDSM takes place within TPE frames, alongside the basic theme of this book, is idiotic. No way to soften that one.
- There is a very real need to uncover the sociopaths at large within the BDSM community. These sociopaths are not the kinds of arseholes like Bill, who can't be bothered to follow the most basic safety rules. They are those who use the BDSM community as their hunting grounds. And there are quite a few of them. I find it curious that an author who allegedly herself is a BDSMer downplays the issue the way she does. The way Fetlife's practice of forbidding the naming of offenders and sociopaths was more or less validated and excused is pretty distasteful in view of the comparatively large number of people who get harmed by predators.
Sooo, no. I didn't enjoy this.
Okay. It has settled a bit.
I expected to read this and end up with 2* or maybe 3* and potentially a meh-kind of verdict as I wasn't so bowled over by the premise. Unfortunately it quickly went downhill from there, and I mean within sight of the first page. It didn't get any better either, in fact, towards the end I was thoroughly angered.
But let's start with the pros:
- this was technically well-edited, which these days is a real plus.
- I liked big D. To me he was the one genuine and realistic character in the whole book, and I'd have liked reading something more solid and better just about him and how he links up with someone worth the while. By the way, I associated Al Borland with him, not Ron Swanson:
And that's it regarding the pro-points, I'm afraid.
With which we come to the cons:
- Kink-shaming is icky. Yes, I noticed that the author may be trying to foreshadow conflict in one of the later books of this series, but believe me, I definitely won't be reading any more of them. Hence I am stuck with the impression that the author willfully puts kink-shaming words in the mouth of her main character without subverting them. It reads as if this kink-shaming is supported and just fine. And that will be the impression of many who like me won't read on.
- The jokes and one-liners fell flat for me. Nothing of this was funny, nothing humorous, not in the slightest. Instead I quickly was extremely enervated in a reaction similar to the one I had towards "Shattered Glass". Humour doesn't necessarily translate well across cultures, and - here the content editor is at fault - at least 80% of the references and punchlines were lost on me. They simply aren't part of my cultural identity and life. All this did, was irritate.
- The subs club four (Kamen, Miles, Dave, Gould) came across as silly, downright infantile slackers. There was no way I could positively align their ages with their behaviour. They came across as younger than 14 or 15, which wasn't endearing any of them to me. I don't think these four are in any way representative of the typical subs I know, who all tend to be competent, educated or at least professionally successful and outside of BDSM self-assured and capable. Which means, to me, that representing subs in such a manner is rather offensive to submissives per se.
- And while we are at "offensive"... Not one BDSMer in this story was described as a halfway normal, legit person. All came across as freaks, painted with a rather negative and unkind brush. A freak show to - apparently - amuse the straight vanilla readers of this book, and that really went down the wrong way for me. It felt mean-spirited, and not funny. For a funny and self-ironical look at the idiosyncrasies of BDSMers I suggest An Old-Fashioned Love Song for instance. Grant has it down to a T, whereas this here went too far without the needed gentleness.
- In most if not all US states killings, especially those involving BDSM, are treated as (accidental) manslaughter. People will see a trial, they commonly will be sentenced, and few of them go free (if any at all). I did a quick online survey of cases, and I found none who under the described circumstances went scotfree. Instead there are, even in countries like Sweden where BDSM is legal, verdicts up to 16 years for manslaughter caused by neglect or gross neglect. In the UK, where even a bruise could put you behind bars or on a sex offender list if the judge feels like it, it is even more unlikely. So, the manslaughter this book is based on is not treated realistically at all.
- Apropos realistically: where was the dungeon monitor and where the dungeon master during that session? And I know of no party organiser hereabouts who would invite back a top acting with such gross neglect. The normal behaviour would have been to either call someone to Hal's side, or to send someone to fetch water.
- None of the described sessions, none of the sex was in any way erotic. Yes, I get that BDSM isn't necessarily sex-oriented, I myself don't mix BDSM and sex, but in a book published as a romance/erotic romance I really expect me at least one or two scenes which get me going.
- Politics: this is my biggest criticism. This whole book feels like the author is riding her personal hobbyhorse. It feels as if she has an agenda, and is trying to drive her point home. For one thing, neither the manslaughter, nor its aftermath have been represented realistically. For another, everyone behaves like cardboard cutouts of scene stereotypes, and indeed, like negative scene stereotypes. And for a third, like in so many books written by either BDSMers or people at least frequenting Fetlife, this book also engages in some mystification of old leather and how things were better then, than they are now.
As a result the real issue which allegedly was at the heart of this book gets belittled. Which is what angered me seriously while reading the last few pages: no one needs a safeword. The word "no" is all it takes when there are no CNC (consensual non-con) scenes taking place. Doing entirely away with the ability to stop a scene however, especially in the case of someone who is so traumatised and so wet behind his ears as Dave, isn't CNC, it is TPE and makes the play non-con the moment he wants out and isn't listened to.
Consent within BDSM is only valid when it can be withdrawn at any moment. Implying, as it is done in this book, that "the real and the helpful" BDSM takes place within TPE frames, alongside the basic theme of this book, is idiotic. No way to soften that one.
- There is a very real need to uncover the sociopaths at large within the BDSM community. These sociopaths are not the kinds of arseholes like Bill, who can't be bothered to follow the most basic safety rules. They are those who use the BDSM community as their hunting grounds. And there are quite a few of them. I find it curious that an author who allegedly herself is a BDSMer downplays the issue the way she does. The way Fetlife's practice of forbidding the naming of offenders and sociopaths was more or less validated and excused is pretty distasteful in view of the comparatively large number of people who get harmed by predators.
Sooo, no. I didn't enjoy this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2017
Whooaaa! This book has a lot going on, like A LOT. Too many events happening, too many feelings to be had about them. But I adored David. He was definitely one of a kind. And I loved the thing he had with D. A really cute couple, and it was amazing to see how finally they got together at the end.
May 28, 2018
I absolutely loved this - while a terribly sad situation occurred, the balance and play on emotions was cleverly done. Humor, bloody hilarious interaction between D & d and then sadness, and love, such a strong a beautiful love David had for his friends. While there was certainly a BDSM element this went much deeper and really explored David’s management of the loss of his friend and his fears for the others. Amongst this he’d met his match with Pornstache David and couldn’t work out how he felt or which words to use. I adored David, both of them actually.. really looking forward to this series ❤️
February 3, 2016
*ARC received from publisher via Netgalley*
This is my first JA read. I read some reviews from friends here. What can I say, monkey see, monkey do. HAH!
I’m glad I read it. It had funny moments, that’s for sure; which is what got me interested in the first place. But it’s more than that. Four friends are recovering from an unexpected death of a friend while in a scene. Each one is dealing with it in their own way. This is Dave’s way of dealing with it. Along the way, he met The Disciplinarian, whose name also happened to be David. Yup, 2 Davids. And so began an interaction meant to provide what each other needs.
Dave, our main voice of the story, had an ulterior motive when he reached out to The Disciplinarian, or D, the first time. But as things progressed, obviously, David started feeling differently.
Dave is one bratty kid, but I get and like him. He’s cheeky and funny. But beyond that, he cares deeply for his friends. I found D to be one serious dude, some kind of Renaissance man, almost. In my head, neither one is typical H’s, especially D. David doesn’t call him Pornstache for nothing. Put them together though, they have both funny and introspective interactions.
And Dave's friends play quite the roles as well. After all, these friends are big parts of his life. There's easy camaraderie. While they have their funny moments, I think it's important to keep in mind that they're all dealing with something big and emotional as well. Kamen may just be my favorite of all of them.
BDSM is not a theme I usually read in romance, let alone m/m. I have a low threshold for the different kinks in this lifestyle. So call me a wuss, but this did push my limits a bit. Reading this was almost like an education at the very least. I don’t fully understand the dynamics of these kinds of relationship but I think I do get the underlying purpose, the need it fulfills on either side.
Regardless of all that, considering this is not my cuppa', I really did enjoy this book just as I anticipated. I get the humor, but there’s more emotion than that. It touched on dealing with grief, discovering about one’s self, and what trust means in these relationships.
The rest of the series focuses on the rest of the friends. They each get their own story. As curious as I am, I don’t think I’m ready to read the rest at this point, but maybe someday…
This is my first JA read. I read some reviews from friends here. What can I say, monkey see, monkey do. HAH!
I’m glad I read it. It had funny moments, that’s for sure; which is what got me interested in the first place. But it’s more than that. Four friends are recovering from an unexpected death of a friend while in a scene. Each one is dealing with it in their own way. This is Dave’s way of dealing with it. Along the way, he met The Disciplinarian, whose name also happened to be David. Yup, 2 Davids. And so began an interaction meant to provide what each other needs.
Dave, our main voice of the story, had an ulterior motive when he reached out to The Disciplinarian, or D, the first time. But as things progressed, obviously, David started feeling differently.
Dave is one bratty kid, but I get and like him. He’s cheeky and funny. But beyond that, he cares deeply for his friends. I found D to be one serious dude, some kind of Renaissance man, almost. In my head, neither one is typical H’s, especially D. David doesn’t call him Pornstache for nothing. Put them together though, they have both funny and introspective interactions.
And Dave's friends play quite the roles as well. After all, these friends are big parts of his life. There's easy camaraderie. While they have their funny moments, I think it's important to keep in mind that they're all dealing with something big and emotional as well. Kamen may just be my favorite of all of them.
BDSM is not a theme I usually read in romance, let alone m/m. I have a low threshold for the different kinks in this lifestyle. So call me a wuss, but this did push my limits a bit. Reading this was almost like an education at the very least. I don’t fully understand the dynamics of these kinds of relationship but I think I do get the underlying purpose, the need it fulfills on either side.
Regardless of all that, considering this is not my cuppa', I really did enjoy this book just as I anticipated. I get the humor, but there’s more emotion than that. It touched on dealing with grief, discovering about one’s self, and what trust means in these relationships.
The rest of the series focuses on the rest of the friends. They each get their own story. As curious as I am, I don’t think I’m ready to read the rest at this point, but maybe someday…
August 10, 2016
It was Okay. But I didn't love it.
Sub Clubs are NOT MY KINK.
But I like books that can make me laugh, (if I'm in the right mood) and it seemed to be one of those books, it's why I decided to give it a try.
What I enjoyed:
What I didn't like Where I had my problems:
**Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Sub Clubs are NOT MY KINK.
But I like books that can make me laugh, (if I'm in the right mood) and it seemed to be one of those books, it's why I decided to give it a try.
What I enjoyed:
1)I liked the writing. Fleet-footed, uncomplicated and moving, all at once.
2)The first person POV. Dave's internal comments to every situation. Funny, sarcastic(but in a good way) and touching.
3)The beginning. Hilarious!
4)The very ending.
1)NOT MY KINK. A sore ass as a foreplay? Sorry, I don't get it.
2)Sessions. BDSM sessions. Not sexy at all. It was amusing at the beginning, but I got quickly bored with this Sub/Dom sex. Because the whole sex scenes appeared very artificial to me. See p.1)
3)The presence of women in a BDSM club. Maybe it's how BDSM clubs are? I'm not an expert here. See p.1)
4)I skimmed through the most of sex scenes. I found it pretty unsexy, to tell the truth. See p.1) and 2)
**Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
September 14, 2015
"Fucking pornstache, which normally would have been a deal breaker, but his was combined with some additional rugged facial hair that mitigated the situation. And he was mountain man-ish enough that the ’stache seemed not only right, but also necessary."
I can cheerfully say that the main character David and I have absolutely nothing in common (particularly our taste in men and facial hair), and yet it makes no difference at all, because I was enraptured by David's story and rooting for him to find his happy ever after.
David is both witty and insightful, as he narrates the story of the Subs Club explaining his attempts to deal with the impact of losing a close friend to an accidental death during consensual play at a club. David wants to protect the rest of his friendship group and comes up with an idea of an online group to alert subs and bottoms to poor or dangerous behaviour by doms and tops.
What follows is complex, chaotic and compelling story. It is told with humour and compassion, David has a sharp wit and is both charming and engaging even with his own attempts at self sabotage. He decides to rate a Dom known as the Disciplinarian because in David's opinion that online profile on Fet leaves much to be desired.
Their initial encounter is rocky, but gradually they build up more of an understanding of each other. The discipline that David undergoes is in my opinion harsh, but it works for these guys.
The story weaves between interludes with David's roommate and his close friends as they develop the Subs Club and his interaction with the Disciplinarian:
"This did not bode well. But I did it. Because I was a pleasant and obedient individual who adored a man cloned from Satan."
Both engaging and thoughtful narration outlines some of the pitfalls that can happen with an online rating site.
David believes that his relationship may have the opportunity to move to a significant level:
"Or maybe I’d play it cool— go over there and kiss him passionately, take him into the bedroom, get him hard, and then Meatloaf him. Tell him stop — I needed to know right now, before we went any further, did he love me? Would he love me forever?"
This book is a heady cocktail of intense scenes and everyday interactions with thoughtful insight into BDSM.
The Subs Club is both joyful and painful (in every sense) as all of the characters grow and develop. I look forward to the rest of the books in the series. This story is a delight, and realistically paced, bold and beautiful. The kink may not have been my own cup of tea, but it was so clearly getting David and his lover off that it was amazingly erotic and hot.
Highly recommended for those who like male/male romance with some hot kink on the side.
* I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review *
Want to read
December 25, 2015Y'see the title?
I keep reading it as Club Subs.
So I think of sandwiches:
Hold the pickle on mine please.
I keep reading it as Club Subs.
So I think of sandwiches:
Hold the pickle on mine please.
October 9, 2015
I really can't fan girl hard enough over how much I loved this book. It took a serious look at a serious subject matter but did so with a lot of thought and a lot of humor. I wasn't expecting the level of humor that this book had. (I mean it's JA. I thought this was going to be dark) I literally laughed out loud more times that I can count. I lost track of how many pages I marked with funny things I wanted to remember. David is a fabulous narrator. His internal monologues are the best. (The stuff he says out loud was just as funny.)
David is the MC and he is a sub. He has a group of close friends who he shares the lifestyle with. They've all been through a very hard time as a member of their group was recently killed during a scene due to a Dom's negligence. After finding out the Dom has been admitted back to the club they go to, they all go through a series of emotions. David decides to channel his anger into creating The Subs Club, an online, private group where subs can discuss Doms in the community. His motivation is a pure one, to protect subs from harm. Unfortunately the issue isn't as clear cut as it would first appear and the website quickly spirals out of control.
In addition David has met a Dom he's interested in. A Dom he calls Pornstache. Pornstache is David's total opposite and the two men simutaneously annoy the daylights out of each other and turn each other on. Their relationship development is a key plotline in the story and it was done really well. No insta love. No easy road. These two work for what they have and the story slowly built the BDSM component in a way I found believable.
David's friends are great side characters and they were key factors into the plot. I felt like I got to know them all just enough that I can't wait to get to their stories.
For me this book had everything. Unique plot, some serious moments, a sweet love story, some sexy scenes and a lot of funny. This was a stellar read for me.
*ARC provided through Netgalley*
David is the MC and he is a sub. He has a group of close friends who he shares the lifestyle with. They've all been through a very hard time as a member of their group was recently killed during a scene due to a Dom's negligence. After finding out the Dom has been admitted back to the club they go to, they all go through a series of emotions. David decides to channel his anger into creating The Subs Club, an online, private group where subs can discuss Doms in the community. His motivation is a pure one, to protect subs from harm. Unfortunately the issue isn't as clear cut as it would first appear and the website quickly spirals out of control.
In addition David has met a Dom he's interested in. A Dom he calls Pornstache. Pornstache is David's total opposite and the two men simutaneously annoy the daylights out of each other and turn each other on. Their relationship development is a key plotline in the story and it was done really well. No insta love. No easy road. These two work for what they have and the story slowly built the BDSM component in a way I found believable.
David's friends are great side characters and they were key factors into the plot. I felt like I got to know them all just enough that I can't wait to get to their stories.
For me this book had everything. Unique plot, some serious moments, a sweet love story, some sexy scenes and a lot of funny. This was a stellar read for me.
*ARC provided through Netgalley*
November 21, 2015
BR with Wench, who continues to put up with me even though I'm an awful BRer.
Oh well, at least I've offered to show her my frilly lace manties. That should make up for my behaviour, right?
J.A. Rock and Lisa Henry are my favourite MM author duo. I've loved their books, whether squicky and dark, or light and entertaining. But for some reason, I've held off on reading any solo works of J.A. I think I was just worried that the solo wouldn't live up to the duo. Obviously I was wrong, because 'The Subs Club' was an excellent read.
The BDSM, specifically the D/s and the discipline angle, in this book was right up my alley. I got to the first scene during my morning commute, and had to make a decision about either saving it for later, or continuing on with the porn while surrounded by other commuters. Of course, I chose to read the porn in public. It was hot, so I'd say that was a good decision. But I also liked that the BDSM became David's vehicle for making his life better, and making more adult choices.
The dom in this book is also named David, but was usually referred to as D, so I didn't get confused or mixed up. D's the exact opposite of David. He's paunchy, older, outdoorsy, decries the death of the tough American male, and thinks that chicken, steak, and bacon are three of the four food groups. D's a really manly man. In fact, he's Ron Swanson from Parks and Recreation.
I wasn't sure how I felt about D at first, but by the halfway point I was ready to take a spanking from him.
David, on the other hand, is exactly what D deplores. He likes mani-pedis, doesn't have a filter between his brain and mouth, has a sharp wit, and very little discipline or ambition. I loved him from the start. It's hard not to, considering how much heart he gives to his friends, and how passionate he is about creating safe BDSM spaces. David and D were great together, and I really liked their progression from antagonism to grudging acceptance, and then to wanting something more. It was sweet and sexy.
I couldn't help but draw parallels between what David encountered when trying to create a discussion around sub-abuse, and the recent discussion about racism in the MM Romance Group. The author was able to capture the complexity and frustration of bringing up controversial topics. I could understand David's dilemma of wanting to do the right thing, and yet being pulled in different directions because of negative reactions and concerns.
I think the takeaway lesson is this: controversial issues that effect people's lives should be brought in to the open, but it has to be done in a way that's constructive, and that takes in to account that some people will have shitty reactions.
My only complaint with this book is that the ending felt rushed and somewhat unfinished. I don't think D and David were really set in stone. But since we've got 3 more books in the Subs Club series, I expect we'll see more of the two, so I'm not as annoyed with the ending as I might have been.
Overall, this was a fun read with some hot sex, a sweet relationship, and a unique plot. I've got a good feeling about this series!
Review copy provided through NetGalley
Oh well, at least I've offered to show her my frilly lace manties. That should make up for my behaviour, right?
J.A. Rock and Lisa Henry are my favourite MM author duo. I've loved their books, whether squicky and dark, or light and entertaining. But for some reason, I've held off on reading any solo works of J.A. I think I was just worried that the solo wouldn't live up to the duo. Obviously I was wrong, because 'The Subs Club' was an excellent read.
The BDSM, specifically the D/s and the discipline angle, in this book was right up my alley. I got to the first scene during my morning commute, and had to make a decision about either saving it for later, or continuing on with the porn while surrounded by other commuters. Of course, I chose to read the porn in public. It was hot, so I'd say that was a good decision. But I also liked that the BDSM became David's vehicle for making his life better, and making more adult choices.
The dom in this book is also named David, but was usually referred to as D, so I didn't get confused or mixed up. D's the exact opposite of David. He's paunchy, older, outdoorsy, decries the death of the tough American male, and thinks that chicken, steak, and bacon are three of the four food groups. D's a really manly man. In fact, he's Ron Swanson from Parks and Recreation.
I wasn't sure how I felt about D at first, but by the halfway point I was ready to take a spanking from him.
David, on the other hand, is exactly what D deplores. He likes mani-pedis, doesn't have a filter between his brain and mouth, has a sharp wit, and very little discipline or ambition. I loved him from the start. It's hard not to, considering how much heart he gives to his friends, and how passionate he is about creating safe BDSM spaces. David and D were great together, and I really liked their progression from antagonism to grudging acceptance, and then to wanting something more. It was sweet and sexy.
I couldn't help but draw parallels between what David encountered when trying to create a discussion around sub-abuse, and the recent discussion about racism in the MM Romance Group. The author was able to capture the complexity and frustration of bringing up controversial topics. I could understand David's dilemma of wanting to do the right thing, and yet being pulled in different directions because of negative reactions and concerns.
I think the takeaway lesson is this: controversial issues that effect people's lives should be brought in to the open, but it has to be done in a way that's constructive, and that takes in to account that some people will have shitty reactions.
My only complaint with this book is that the ending felt rushed and somewhat unfinished. I don't think D and David were really set in stone. But since we've got 3 more books in the Subs Club series, I expect we'll see more of the two, so I'm not as annoyed with the ending as I might have been.
Overall, this was a fun read with some hot sex, a sweet relationship, and a unique plot. I've got a good feeling about this series!
Review copy provided through NetGalley
January 4, 2016
3,5 stars
I did like this first book of the Subs Club series but didn’t love it.
Two main reasons: domestic discipline (including corner time, mouth soaping, enemas, body scrubbing, denial of bathroom privileges, figging, scolding, forced exercise and rectal temperature-taking) isn’t my kink… and I couldn’t connect with David ‘Pornstache’, the Disciplinarian. Yes, I’m sure David is a nice guy but I’m just not attracted to men looking like Tom Selleck... or even worse like Teddy Roosevelt. *shudders* And I like the guys in my book attractive and hot!
Dave's description of Pornstache:
I watched him undress. He was all that I’d imagined: hairy, paunchy, and hot as fuck. His dick was kind of small, but I appreciated that.
Just.... no, Sir. *shudders again*
The writing is great, though… and Dave’s internal monologues are fun to read. And I loved his friends, Gould, Kamen, and Miles, the co-funder of the subs club.
For me the bond between the friends is the highlight of the book and the main reason why I’m looking forward to reading the next installment.
February 12, 2016
I feel like I have to confess to a few things:
1. I know only the most peripherally available information about the BDSM, D/s scenes, and domestic discipline. I don't usually read a lot of books with it as the main storyline, because it's just not my bag. Not in any judgmental way, but more in a, "I don't roll that way myself, but you have fun and be safe!" kind of way.
That being said, I thought the story handled what could go wrong and why, trust, privacy and the whole Safe, Sane, and Consensual pretty well.
2. I don't kink shame. Ever. I don't care what it is you're into. If you're into it and you're safe about it, I am 100% "It's your life!" and believe it has absolutely nothing to do with me or is any of my business.
So I didn't understand David's penchant or inner monologuing of kink shaming he did, especially with the furries and ponies. I kept waiting for an explanation of why he was so against it, but nothing ever really came from it.
3. I absolutely loved and spent the entire book picturing David (AKA The Disciplinarian, AKA PORNSTACHE!) like a younger Burt Reynolds.
Told entirely from the POV of twenty-six year old David who works in a tea store in the mall, loves his friends fiercely and would do anything for them, and enjoys being dominated and disciplined (except sometimes when he doesn't). David was, to me, a study in contradictions. He was a complete dichotomy. He advocates for safer BDSM but regularly played in an unsafe manner before the death of his friend (and still not very safe after, truth be told). David wants to be a hair stylist, but can't focus long enough to fill out the forms to sign up for cosmetology school. He wants to be disciplined, but does whatever he can to trigger and run off potential Doms. The list goes on and on and on.
David is also snarky, bitchy, and hysterically funny, which is like a spoonful of sugar for me. It helps everything else go down really smoothly.
The story begins with David returning to Riddle - one of two BDSM clubs in the city, with his three best friends, Miles, Kamen, and Gould, for an event for the first time since their friend Hal was killed during a scene gone very wrong. David has got a lot of residual guilt about Hal's death (he was there with him the night it happened, but had been arguing with Hal, stepped outside for a cigarette, and ultimately not been there when Hal was killed during breath play with an incompetent Dom).
In the club, David immediately spots, and is inexplicably drawn to, a man sporting an epic PORNSTACHE! at the bar drinking a root beer.
David wants him, but doesn't...
...and is disappointed when Pornstache disappears.
Just before the event starts though David spots Bill Henson, the Dom responsible for Hal's death. When he confronts the club's owners, Kel and GK, he's told they've reinstated Bill's membership because "He wants a chance to be part of the community again."
David's rage over this perceived injustice ends up sparking the idea that eventually turns into The Subs Club, a website David creates for the sole purpose, at first, of allowing Subs to communicate in a private environment the concerns and issues that face Subs in their communities, but evolves into Subs rating their Doms.
David finds Pornstache's FetLife profile; known as "The Disciplinarian" Pornstache ironically requests only those in good shape under 30 need apply when he is obviously neither of those things. When David first contacts him with what he thinks The Disciplinarian wants to hear, David's blown off. When he responds being more honest and open he's given an opportunity to meet with The Disciplinarian for coffee. He finds out The Disciplinarian is thirty-eight, also named David (so he gets the nickname of D) and basically snarks his way into getting to scene with D.
This book has basically two sides: first, David's scenes and time spent with D and second, the handling of the BDSM scene, with all the communication and trust issues, and the privacy issues with creating a website that basically rates Doms like they're items for sale on Amazon.
I loved David and wanted him to find the tethering he needed to be the man we really wants to be. But he's also childish and spiteful and a mess.
I loved how patient D was with David, even at David's most obstreperous and recalcitrant.
I loved D and how he interacted with David and David's friends and am not ashamed to say I was hoping for a better ending. I definitely got the glimmer of a HFN, but was hoping for a HEA. That's really just my romantic's heart speaking, because the way it ends with their burgeoning relationship is actually pretty perfect for the story. Also pretty perfect for the story, but which also made me sad, was that the heat level is pretty low. I was expecting quite a bit more, but with the exception of one sex scene and a few discipline scenes...there was nada.
I didn't love the BDSM portion, mostly because it didn't make a lot of sense to me. There are two overt occasions when David deliberately disobeys D, but instead of being disciplined then (for an actual wrongdoing) D is gentle with him and sends David on his way. It confused me. I was also confused why the club didn't have monitors in the scene rooms. I mean, the whole reason for the story is because a member was killed during a scene gone wrong, and the owners are all about "keeping an eye" on things, but I didn't see anything that showed that was happening.
In the end, I enjoyed the story overall. I highlighted a good portion of this book and while most of it is hysterical, it also got me to think about consequences, discipline, and communication. The Subs Club has made me that much more excited for the other stories in the series. I'm really looking forward to them!
Recommended!
Review Copy generously provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
1. I know only the most peripherally available information about the BDSM, D/s scenes, and domestic discipline. I don't usually read a lot of books with it as the main storyline, because it's just not my bag. Not in any judgmental way, but more in a, "I don't roll that way myself, but you have fun and be safe!" kind of way.
That being said, I thought the story handled what could go wrong and why, trust, privacy and the whole Safe, Sane, and Consensual pretty well.
2. I don't kink shame. Ever. I don't care what it is you're into. If you're into it and you're safe about it, I am 100% "It's your life!" and believe it has absolutely nothing to do with me or is any of my business.
So I didn't understand David's penchant or inner monologuing of kink shaming he did, especially with the furries and ponies. I kept waiting for an explanation of why he was so against it, but nothing ever really came from it.
3. I absolutely loved and spent the entire book picturing David (AKA The Disciplinarian, AKA PORNSTACHE!) like a younger Burt Reynolds.
Told entirely from the POV of twenty-six year old David who works in a tea store in the mall, loves his friends fiercely and would do anything for them, and enjoys being dominated and disciplined (except sometimes when he doesn't). David was, to me, a study in contradictions. He was a complete dichotomy. He advocates for safer BDSM but regularly played in an unsafe manner before the death of his friend (and still not very safe after, truth be told). David wants to be a hair stylist, but can't focus long enough to fill out the forms to sign up for cosmetology school. He wants to be disciplined, but does whatever he can to trigger and run off potential Doms. The list goes on and on and on.
David is also snarky, bitchy, and hysterically funny, which is like a spoonful of sugar for me. It helps everything else go down really smoothly.
The story begins with David returning to Riddle - one of two BDSM clubs in the city, with his three best friends, Miles, Kamen, and Gould, for an event for the first time since their friend Hal was killed during a scene gone very wrong. David has got a lot of residual guilt about Hal's death (he was there with him the night it happened, but had been arguing with Hal, stepped outside for a cigarette, and ultimately not been there when Hal was killed during breath play with an incompetent Dom).
In the club, David immediately spots, and is inexplicably drawn to, a man sporting an epic PORNSTACHE! at the bar drinking a root beer.
Big-boned, a little paunchy even. Fucking pornstache, which normally would have been a deal breaker, but his was combined with some additional rugged facial hair that mitigated the situation. And he was mountain man-ish enough that the ’stache seemed not only right, but also necessary.
David wants him, but doesn't...
Come on, Pornstache. I know you want to spank me.
And then marry me and become my forever companion—except don’t, because relationships are doomed and marriage is an outdated and restrictive institution and hope is futile.
...and is disappointed when Pornstache disappears.
Pornstache vanished into the crowd without so much as burying his face in my ass and giving me mustache burns on my taint. Life was cruel.
Just before the event starts though David spots Bill Henson, the Dom responsible for Hal's death. When he confronts the club's owners, Kel and GK, he's told they've reinstated Bill's membership because "He wants a chance to be part of the community again."
“Aren’t you afraid he’ll hurt someone again?” I demanded.
“Bill has made a huge effort over the past few months.” Kel was intensely interested in her mug. “We’re keeping an extra-close eye on him to make sure he plays safely and responsibly.”
“Hal’s death was tragic,” GK said. “But it was an accident.”
“I know. I can’t count how many times I’ve accidentally strangled someone during a sex game.” I looked around and offered an air high-five to several people in the café who were staring at me. “Amiright?”
David's rage over this perceived injustice ends up sparking the idea that eventually turns into The Subs Club, a website David creates for the sole purpose, at first, of allowing Subs to communicate in a private environment the concerns and issues that face Subs in their communities, but evolves into Subs rating their Doms.
David finds Pornstache's FetLife profile; known as "The Disciplinarian" Pornstache ironically requests only those in good shape under 30 need apply when he is obviously neither of those things. When David first contacts him with what he thinks The Disciplinarian wants to hear, David's blown off. When he responds being more honest and open he's given an opportunity to meet with The Disciplinarian for coffee. He finds out The Disciplinarian is thirty-eight, also named David (so he gets the nickname of D) and basically snarks his way into getting to scene with D.
This book has basically two sides: first, David's scenes and time spent with D and second, the handling of the BDSM scene, with all the communication and trust issues, and the privacy issues with creating a website that basically rates Doms like they're items for sale on Amazon.
I loved David and wanted him to find the tethering he needed to be the man we really wants to be. But he's also childish and spiteful and a mess.
The whole situation was ridiculous.
I’d let Hal get hurt. Because of this part of me. The part that was childish and spiteful and needed to push back when someone pushed me. Hal had wanted to annoy me by playing with Bill, and he had, so I’d left him.
I’d left him, and he’d died alone, and maybe he’d been scared. I’d never fucking know.
I grabbed the paper out from under me, un-balled it, and wrote at the bottom I’M SORRY.
I loved how patient D was with David, even at David's most obstreperous and recalcitrant.
I loved D and how he interacted with David and David's friends and am not ashamed to say I was hoping for a better ending. I definitely got the glimmer of a HFN, but was hoping for a HEA. That's really just my romantic's heart speaking, because the way it ends with their burgeoning relationship is actually pretty perfect for the story. Also pretty perfect for the story, but which also made me sad, was that the heat level is pretty low. I was expecting quite a bit more, but with the exception of one sex scene and a few discipline scenes...there was nada.
I didn't love the BDSM portion, mostly because it didn't make a lot of sense to me. There are two overt occasions when David deliberately disobeys D, but instead of being disciplined then (for an actual wrongdoing) D is gentle with him and sends David on his way. It confused me. I was also confused why the club didn't have monitors in the scene rooms. I mean, the whole reason for the story is because a member was killed during a scene gone wrong, and the owners are all about "keeping an eye" on things, but I didn't see anything that showed that was happening.
In the end, I enjoyed the story overall. I highlighted a good portion of this book and while most of it is hysterical, it also got me to think about consequences, discipline, and communication. The Subs Club has made me that much more excited for the other stories in the series. I'm really looking forward to them!
Recommended!
Review Copy generously provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
October 22, 2015
A really enjoyable story, tackling vital issues, but also just great fun to read!
BDSM novels are not really my favourite genre but I was curious and wanted to read this first book in a new series. Thankfully this time curiosity did not kill the cat!
I enjoyed this story and I really liked the voice of the main character. The story is told by David who is stubborn, contrariwise, sassy and disobedient, and in some ways sensitive and vulnerable. David likes being submissive but in many ways he isn't cut from submissive cloth.
Or is he?
David is tired of meeting ineffective, unprofessional and dangerous doms. He lost one of his best friends because of a dangerous dom and one year later this loss still hurts but it doesn't stop David from visiting the clubs or from wanting a dom. And then one evening he meets the Disciplinarian and his curiosity is spiked.
And he requests a meeting
And he requests a session
And a relationship with a new dom begins.
But the pain of loss and the unwillingness of the club owners to recognise this loss leads David and his friends to form their own on line club where subs can discuss BDSM, and name and shame unsafe doms, and so the Sub Club is born.
I don't really understand BDSM but I don't mind reading a well crafted story and this is a good one. I do sometimes wonder how authentic these stories really are because they always seem to glamorise BDSM, never really getting into the reality of the relationships between the people involved. This story explores these relationships through the ups and downs of David and his friends as they develop relationships and love, and explore their different kinks. The beauty of the story is that it portrays this through friendship, love, activism and coming to terms with loss.
I love the way the story explores the ethical aspects of participation within a particular community, group or sub -culture or lifestyle. How do you ensure safety within a culture which is not always understood or appreciated by mainstream society? Who gets to decide who is a dom? How can you prevent abuse and violence and other forms of exploitation?
David continues to explore his relationship with the Disciplinarian and at the same time manages the Subclub website but there is still much in his life that he needs to address and he needs to come to terms with the loss of his friend Hal, and it is his friends that will help him get there and perhaps the Disciplinarian will.
I liked the way the story flowed and although tackling some serious issues does so in an engaging tone. It is also funny in places because David and his friends are very much self-effacing and at times slightly nerdy.
This looks as if it is going to be a great series and I am looking forward to reading the other books and seeing BDSM through the eyes of the other Sub Club founders.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a review.
BDSM novels are not really my favourite genre but I was curious and wanted to read this first book in a new series. Thankfully this time curiosity did not kill the cat!
I enjoyed this story and I really liked the voice of the main character. The story is told by David who is stubborn, contrariwise, sassy and disobedient, and in some ways sensitive and vulnerable. David likes being submissive but in many ways he isn't cut from submissive cloth.
Or is he?
David is tired of meeting ineffective, unprofessional and dangerous doms. He lost one of his best friends because of a dangerous dom and one year later this loss still hurts but it doesn't stop David from visiting the clubs or from wanting a dom. And then one evening he meets the Disciplinarian and his curiosity is spiked.
And he requests a meeting
And he requests a session
And a relationship with a new dom begins.
But the pain of loss and the unwillingness of the club owners to recognise this loss leads David and his friends to form their own on line club where subs can discuss BDSM, and name and shame unsafe doms, and so the Sub Club is born.
I don't really understand BDSM but I don't mind reading a well crafted story and this is a good one. I do sometimes wonder how authentic these stories really are because they always seem to glamorise BDSM, never really getting into the reality of the relationships between the people involved. This story explores these relationships through the ups and downs of David and his friends as they develop relationships and love, and explore their different kinks. The beauty of the story is that it portrays this through friendship, love, activism and coming to terms with loss.
I love the way the story explores the ethical aspects of participation within a particular community, group or sub -culture or lifestyle. How do you ensure safety within a culture which is not always understood or appreciated by mainstream society? Who gets to decide who is a dom? How can you prevent abuse and violence and other forms of exploitation?
David continues to explore his relationship with the Disciplinarian and at the same time manages the Subclub website but there is still much in his life that he needs to address and he needs to come to terms with the loss of his friend Hal, and it is his friends that will help him get there and perhaps the Disciplinarian will.
I liked the way the story flowed and although tackling some serious issues does so in an engaging tone. It is also funny in places because David and his friends are very much self-effacing and at times slightly nerdy.
This looks as if it is going to be a great series and I am looking forward to reading the other books and seeing BDSM through the eyes of the other Sub Club founders.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a review.
December 7, 2015
Review @Ohmyshelves on 12.07.15
""You earn my obedience, Big D. You don't demand it. And you don't lowercase me unless we've discussed it." I felt "I'm Every Woman" for about three seconds."
"We're like the Baby-Sitters Club. Except instead of babysitting, we're face-sitting."
"I have Vicks in my ass and all over my C**k, and if I don't get it off I'm going to die. I need milk. Milk!"
Some of my favorite quotes from the story.
I really adored this story. David was an amazing story teller. I could not tell you the amount of times I laughed while reading this. I loved his hyper personality, loved his loyalty to his friends, I even enjoyed his posturing when it came to Pornstache! Ha best name ever! I really enjoyed the premise of the story. These 4 great friends mourning the lost of one of their friends in a accidental way. They decide to come up with a safety net system for other subs in their culture. I learned alot while reading this. I probably stopped to google about 5 to 7 terms!
I really enjoyed the dynamics between David & David, both were in uncharted waters with one another. I like how J.A. wrote their insecurities, and how she had them on this journey with one another. I see forever with these two. I like the vulnerabilities in all of the character's that we've seen so far. I really like this because as much as it's an introduction book to a series, it's a really good book 1 as well. She told their in a way that the other characters weren't lost. I am looking forward to the series.
I think this is one of her best works to date. I can't wait for more. Bravo J.A. Rock!
November 19, 2015
This is a must read book to see the harsh realities of BDSM. David is a guy who loves his kink. His friends are all kinky. David's bratty attitude is a bit out of control and when he sets up a blog to "rate" dominants, I feel like I'm going into a major train wreck on a bullet train. When I first started this book, I cringed because David is so bloody annoying and I'm kicking myself for picking it up. I'm a fan of Ms. Rock. Sometimes, her books do not work for me. I can't stand the characters. After finding out how David tries to get a session with The Disciplinarian dom, I'm thinking this is a 2 star. How do I gracefully remove this book from my list and pretend I never saw it? I take a deep breath and force myself to continue.
I understand David's intent. He really wants to protect other submissive from dominants who are predators. This is a personal mission because one of his best friends dies from a scene. There are no winners in this situation. There are only losers because two people decided to go a bit too far. Now their irresponsibility impacts the entire community. I feel so bad for the owners of the club just as I am horrified for David. The fact that the dominant screwed up and his submissive died, should he be banned for life from the community? How is it possible for submissives to continue to come to a club and feel safe if the "murdering" dominant is still allowed to be in the club and play?
The BDSM in this story is dead on. It is Ms. Rock so I know it will be accurate. The interworking's of a community when something goes wrong is the impressive part of this story. Showing the impacts from multiple unbiased views makes this a fabulous read. This book takes on hard issues with no good answers. This extremely realistic portrayal of how things can go terrible pear-shaped and how the community responds is so well done. I personally don't know what I would do. It's hard because I can see David's point of view. I can also see the dominants being rated on the blog's point of view. I am also seeing the negative impact on the community. This division is not good for a community that is usually persecuted for their desires. At a fundamental level, Ms. Rock brings up the hard questions of - what happens when trust is violated. What happens when people do not feel safe in a community which requires privacy?
This is a thought provoking book that also includes messy human elements - high emotions. There are no easy answers here. This book isn't all serious heavy "questioning the meaning of life" material. David's snarky attitude brightens the book. His relationship with the Disciplinarian balances the book out. The characters in the book give it another layer of enjoyment. With wry commentary and dry humour from the Disciplinarian, I'm definitely attracted to his kind of dominance.
He came to stand beside me. “Among other things. In this culture of participation awards, this society where everyone is special and legitimate skill is the mark of a bygone era, we have ceased to quantify accomplishment. I look around and see a generation of useless, over privileged men who have all been taught to express their opinions rather than get things done.” (kindle loc. 681-683)
I sense a conservative no nonsense dominant. I'm excited. David, get back in the line. I want a turn with this dom.
“I just like humiliating adult men in tight white underwear.” [Disciplinarian]
“Fair enough. How do you feel about manties?” [David]
“I do not know what you’re talking about, nor do I care to find out.” [Disciplinarian]
“They’re panties for men. Lingerie.” [David]
He [Disciplinarian] reached for his mug and took a sip of coffee, never breaking eye contact with me. Then he got up, went to the counter and poured himself a whiskey. Knocked it back and stared at me once more. “I have erased your last words from my memory. Let’s go to the den.” (kindle loc. 2412-2417)
This book put me through the wringer. At the end, I loved it and I can't wait to read the next in the series. Recommended for kinky readers who enjoy a dose of messy reality with their romance.
*provided by NetGalley
I understand David's intent. He really wants to protect other submissive from dominants who are predators. This is a personal mission because one of his best friends dies from a scene. There are no winners in this situation. There are only losers because two people decided to go a bit too far. Now their irresponsibility impacts the entire community. I feel so bad for the owners of the club just as I am horrified for David. The fact that the dominant screwed up and his submissive died, should he be banned for life from the community? How is it possible for submissives to continue to come to a club and feel safe if the "murdering" dominant is still allowed to be in the club and play?
The BDSM in this story is dead on. It is Ms. Rock so I know it will be accurate. The interworking's of a community when something goes wrong is the impressive part of this story. Showing the impacts from multiple unbiased views makes this a fabulous read. This book takes on hard issues with no good answers. This extremely realistic portrayal of how things can go terrible pear-shaped and how the community responds is so well done. I personally don't know what I would do. It's hard because I can see David's point of view. I can also see the dominants being rated on the blog's point of view. I am also seeing the negative impact on the community. This division is not good for a community that is usually persecuted for their desires. At a fundamental level, Ms. Rock brings up the hard questions of - what happens when trust is violated. What happens when people do not feel safe in a community which requires privacy?
This is a thought provoking book that also includes messy human elements - high emotions. There are no easy answers here. This book isn't all serious heavy "questioning the meaning of life" material. David's snarky attitude brightens the book. His relationship with the Disciplinarian balances the book out. The characters in the book give it another layer of enjoyment. With wry commentary and dry humour from the Disciplinarian, I'm definitely attracted to his kind of dominance.
He came to stand beside me. “Among other things. In this culture of participation awards, this society where everyone is special and legitimate skill is the mark of a bygone era, we have ceased to quantify accomplishment. I look around and see a generation of useless, over privileged men who have all been taught to express their opinions rather than get things done.” (kindle loc. 681-683)
I sense a conservative no nonsense dominant. I'm excited. David, get back in the line. I want a turn with this dom.
“I just like humiliating adult men in tight white underwear.” [Disciplinarian]
“Fair enough. How do you feel about manties?” [David]
“I do not know what you’re talking about, nor do I care to find out.” [Disciplinarian]
“They’re panties for men. Lingerie.” [David]
He [Disciplinarian] reached for his mug and took a sip of coffee, never breaking eye contact with me. Then he got up, went to the counter and poured himself a whiskey. Knocked it back and stared at me once more. “I have erased your last words from my memory. Let’s go to the den.” (kindle loc. 2412-2417)
This book put me through the wringer. At the end, I loved it and I can't wait to read the next in the series. Recommended for kinky readers who enjoy a dose of messy reality with their romance.
*provided by NetGalley
December 31, 2015
Yelp for Doms, what could possibly go wrong? Good start, great banter and interesting premise. I can't decide if big D (the Ron Swanson-esque character) is a brilliant characterization or just a cheap play on a popular TV character. In any case, I like D and I hope he sticks around. Little d seemed a bit young for his 26 years, but all in all a good soul.
December 30, 2019
the first time I read this I was trapped in an airport staring down the barrel of a transatlantic flight and trying to pass the time. unsure what my excuse is for rereading it TWICE
July 15, 2019
Loved the humour and the MCs. The kink wasn't for me but I still enjoyed the story.
February 22, 2016
Incredibly ambivalent feelings about this book.
On the one hand, it's fucking majestic. And everyone should go read it. I'm not kidding. Really, go read it now. And I hope you love it. Because I did love it.
On the other hand, for reasons that will have nothing to do with the rest of the readers, I was left extremely unsatisfied with certain parts of the book. And nobody should pay attention to this part of my review if anyone is reading it.
I am also totally going to read the next book.
On the one hand, it's fucking majestic. And everyone should go read it. I'm not kidding. Really, go read it now. And I hope you love it. Because I did love it.
On the other hand, for reasons that will have nothing to do with the rest of the readers, I was left extremely unsatisfied with certain parts of the book. And nobody should pay attention to this part of my review if anyone is reading it.
I am also totally going to read the next book.
November 19, 2017
I can't get over just how much I loved it. It was sexy, but also so incredibly funny, and realistic, with all the plot points melting together nicely. But Dave's character voice killed me! His stream of consciousness is hilarious.
December 7, 2015
Review originally posted at Sinfully.
David is lonely, looking for someone to give him a good spanking, and maybe some meaningless sex to forget for a little while. He’d love to go to hair stylist school, but keeps putting off filling out his applications. He is an incredible brat and an incredibly loyal and loving friend. The death of his friend, Hal, during a scene has taken the shine off of his trips to the club and his approach to finding someone to scene with. David no longer feels he can put his trust in the doms at the club and when the owners decide that since Bill was acquitted of murder, he can return David is horrified. Along with his friends, Miles, Kamen and Gould, he forms the Subs Club, intended to be a website for subs to discuss problems with doms and improve safety in the community.
David decides that one of the first doms he’s going to rate is the Disciplinarian (also David, so he’ll be referred to as “D” to avoid confusion), the man with the pornstache that he spotted at the club. The man who looked at him and basically dismissed him, leaving the club without giving him any further notice. Their first meeting doesn’t go well as David puts on his best bratty performance, but David is drawn to D and begs his way into another session. He is torn between wanting to be obedient and wanting to annoy D as much as possible and so the battle of wills begins. D is not one to be ruffled easily. He talks like a wise old grandpa, when he talks at all, looks like the Brawny paper towel man and is the exact opposite of what David imagined he wanted, but David is drawn to him more with every meeting. While this is going on, David’s friends all are dealing with their grief and problems and the Subs Club has gotten out of control, with the doms catching wind of their reviews and growing angry.
There is a lot going on in this book and running through the book and touching on all the other parts of the story is the theme of how can these subs open up and make themselves vulnerable, without putting their safety at risk unnecessarily. Miles likes knife play and has a frightening experience, Hal died as a result of a breath play scene, Gould goes off with an unknown dom without telling anyone – all things raising even more concern for them now and giving them more reason to lobby for a forum for subs to be open about safety risks associated with specific doms.
There are two relationships that get a lot of time in the book: David and his friends and David and D. I’m going to start with David and his friends (who will be the subjects of the upcoming books in the series) which, along with David’s sarcastic and witty narration, brings a lot of comic relief to the heavier parts of the story. Each of the friends is very distinct and different, but they are a close family. I loved their interactions and their times together were some of my favorite parts of the book. David felt the need to hold them all together after Hal’s death, which they are all handling differently, even as he drowns in his own guilt. His bond with Gould, his roommate and Hal’s sometimes lover, is especially touching. I could really feel the love between these men as they work on the Subs Club, go out together or just sit around watch TV and listen to Kamen sing perversely reworked cover songs. They each have a different kink and each have their own secrets, some of which come out in this story and some of which we still have to wait to find out about, but they are all fiercely loyal, loving and protective of each other.
I had a bit more of a tough time with the relationship between David and D. While they worked well for me as Dom and sub, and even unlikely friends, I didn’t really feel the attraction or heat between them. David knows what he wants, but is very bad at articulating it, so he acts bratty. He wants D to force him to obey, but doesn’t want D to be angry. David’s emotions are all over the place and though D is seemingly quiet and controlled, David manages to push him to his limits as well. It’s a constant push-pull between the two and J.A. Rock did a good job at showing them work their way from their disastrous early sessions to an understanding of what works for the two of them. The kink is obviously discipline, with spankings, humiliation, creative use of everyday items you’d find in the medicine cabinet and writing lists of infractions and essays of apology. The steam factor, for me, was low and the romantic relationship really was never fully realized.
J.A. Rock’s writing has never disappointed me and here again she offers a blend of heavy kink, biting humor and emotional ups and downs. There is a HFN ending, but I expect that David and D will reappear and continue forward in the upcoming three books that will focus on Miles, Kamen and Gould, and the continuing attempts of the men to regain the balance between exploring their kinks to the fullest while ensuring their safety.
David is lonely, looking for someone to give him a good spanking, and maybe some meaningless sex to forget for a little while. He’d love to go to hair stylist school, but keeps putting off filling out his applications. He is an incredible brat and an incredibly loyal and loving friend. The death of his friend, Hal, during a scene has taken the shine off of his trips to the club and his approach to finding someone to scene with. David no longer feels he can put his trust in the doms at the club and when the owners decide that since Bill was acquitted of murder, he can return David is horrified. Along with his friends, Miles, Kamen and Gould, he forms the Subs Club, intended to be a website for subs to discuss problems with doms and improve safety in the community.
David decides that one of the first doms he’s going to rate is the Disciplinarian (also David, so he’ll be referred to as “D” to avoid confusion), the man with the pornstache that he spotted at the club. The man who looked at him and basically dismissed him, leaving the club without giving him any further notice. Their first meeting doesn’t go well as David puts on his best bratty performance, but David is drawn to D and begs his way into another session. He is torn between wanting to be obedient and wanting to annoy D as much as possible and so the battle of wills begins. D is not one to be ruffled easily. He talks like a wise old grandpa, when he talks at all, looks like the Brawny paper towel man and is the exact opposite of what David imagined he wanted, but David is drawn to him more with every meeting. While this is going on, David’s friends all are dealing with their grief and problems and the Subs Club has gotten out of control, with the doms catching wind of their reviews and growing angry.
There is a lot going on in this book and running through the book and touching on all the other parts of the story is the theme of how can these subs open up and make themselves vulnerable, without putting their safety at risk unnecessarily. Miles likes knife play and has a frightening experience, Hal died as a result of a breath play scene, Gould goes off with an unknown dom without telling anyone – all things raising even more concern for them now and giving them more reason to lobby for a forum for subs to be open about safety risks associated with specific doms.
There are two relationships that get a lot of time in the book: David and his friends and David and D. I’m going to start with David and his friends (who will be the subjects of the upcoming books in the series) which, along with David’s sarcastic and witty narration, brings a lot of comic relief to the heavier parts of the story. Each of the friends is very distinct and different, but they are a close family. I loved their interactions and their times together were some of my favorite parts of the book. David felt the need to hold them all together after Hal’s death, which they are all handling differently, even as he drowns in his own guilt. His bond with Gould, his roommate and Hal’s sometimes lover, is especially touching. I could really feel the love between these men as they work on the Subs Club, go out together or just sit around watch TV and listen to Kamen sing perversely reworked cover songs. They each have a different kink and each have their own secrets, some of which come out in this story and some of which we still have to wait to find out about, but they are all fiercely loyal, loving and protective of each other.
I had a bit more of a tough time with the relationship between David and D. While they worked well for me as Dom and sub, and even unlikely friends, I didn’t really feel the attraction or heat between them. David knows what he wants, but is very bad at articulating it, so he acts bratty. He wants D to force him to obey, but doesn’t want D to be angry. David’s emotions are all over the place and though D is seemingly quiet and controlled, David manages to push him to his limits as well. It’s a constant push-pull between the two and J.A. Rock did a good job at showing them work their way from their disastrous early sessions to an understanding of what works for the two of them. The kink is obviously discipline, with spankings, humiliation, creative use of everyday items you’d find in the medicine cabinet and writing lists of infractions and essays of apology. The steam factor, for me, was low and the romantic relationship really was never fully realized.
J.A. Rock’s writing has never disappointed me and here again she offers a blend of heavy kink, biting humor and emotional ups and downs. There is a HFN ending, but I expect that David and D will reappear and continue forward in the upcoming three books that will focus on Miles, Kamen and Gould, and the continuing attempts of the men to regain the balance between exploring their kinks to the fullest while ensuring their safety.
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