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The Subs Club #3
Manties in a Twist
Look, I’ll never stop missing Hal, but this Subs Club my friends started to review suck-ass doms isn’t gonna bring him back or give him justice. For me, it’s just another chance to hang out with my friends, even if they think I’m too dumb to understand the important work we’re supposedly doing.
But maybe I’m not as dumb as they think—at least I know when I’ve got a good thing going. Which is why I just moved in with my dom. Ryan’s awesome possum. He’s really short, never makes me feel stupid, and is up for anything. One costumes. Two more women’s underwear. We’re all about the lace, no leather.
Except when we do pony play. We first tried it as a joke, but turns out I’m ballin’ at it. Now PetPlayFest is coming up, and I wanna take down the Subs Club’s archrival, Cinnamon the ponygirl, in the horse show.
My friends think I’m spending too much time with Ryan and ignoring my obligations to the group. But since when is friendship an obligation? Ryan’s my first serious relationship, and I want to take it . . . seriously. At some point I need to think about my future, not my past.
— Kamen
* * * * * * *
This book can be read on its own, or enjoyed as part of The Subs Club series.
Word 85,100; page 325
But maybe I’m not as dumb as they think—at least I know when I’ve got a good thing going. Which is why I just moved in with my dom. Ryan’s awesome possum. He’s really short, never makes me feel stupid, and is up for anything. One costumes. Two more women’s underwear. We’re all about the lace, no leather.
Except when we do pony play. We first tried it as a joke, but turns out I’m ballin’ at it. Now PetPlayFest is coming up, and I wanna take down the Subs Club’s archrival, Cinnamon the ponygirl, in the horse show.
My friends think I’m spending too much time with Ryan and ignoring my obligations to the group. But since when is friendship an obligation? Ryan’s my first serious relationship, and I want to take it . . . seriously. At some point I need to think about my future, not my past.
— Kamen
* * * * * * *
This book can be read on its own, or enjoyed as part of The Subs Club series.
Word 85,100; page 325
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2016
46 people are currently reading
476 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Rock
53 books562 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 141 reviews
February 29, 2016
I've been shouting it far and wide, but there is just no denying that I'm obsessed with the Sub's Club series. Obsessed.
The first two books in series, The Subs Club and Pain Slut, EASILY made my favorites of this year (and I have a suspicion that The Subs Club might make my top ten of 2016 list). I was soooo looking forward to Manties in a Twist, and though this was my least favorite book in this series, it was still a very good story.
My review is going to be a little negatives-focused, only because the majority of the story was so smoothly awesome that the negatives actually stick out a little more for me. I'll just say that Kamen is a funny, lovable guy and most readers will just fall head-over-heals for him. This book was light and easy, and less kinky than the others, which might appeal to readers who shy away from the more intense kink scenes. I really enjoyed Kamen in all his stages, from mimbo to a more serious guy in a relationship. Ryan was okay, even if I totally didn't get his character.
I think this book had a little bit of a strike against it from the start because I don't like stories with established couples. We get Ryan and Kamen's beginning in Pain Slut, but in this book they are already a couple living together. I like to see a couple meeting each other and getting the initial attraction thing going on, so I was bummed that all that initial stuff was skipped over.
I also think that this book was a little unfocused. I was REALLY excited about the manties aspect of the story, and I was also really excited about the pony play stuff, but I feel like neither kink was really well explored. The manties stuff was just getting going when the characters sort of moved on to other things, which I was upset about! MORE MANTIES! (<---- my new motto) The pony play stuff also felt... off. It wasn't that much that Kamen and Ryan were into the physical and mental aspects of pony play, but more that they were interested in winning the competition. I was hoping for a really intense pony-play scene or two, but it wasn't like that at all.
I think that this book was just a difference between expectations versus reality. I expected something to blow me away, and I got a fun, interesting story that wasn't quite what I had envisioned. This book still gets 4-stars from me because I loved the feeling of this story, and the writing style was so up my alley. Now I'm just hoping that 24/7 wows the pants off of me.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
The first two books in series, The Subs Club and Pain Slut, EASILY made my favorites of this year (and I have a suspicion that The Subs Club might make my top ten of 2016 list). I was soooo looking forward to Manties in a Twist, and though this was my least favorite book in this series, it was still a very good story.
My review is going to be a little negatives-focused, only because the majority of the story was so smoothly awesome that the negatives actually stick out a little more for me. I'll just say that Kamen is a funny, lovable guy and most readers will just fall head-over-heals for him. This book was light and easy, and less kinky than the others, which might appeal to readers who shy away from the more intense kink scenes. I really enjoyed Kamen in all his stages, from mimbo to a more serious guy in a relationship. Ryan was okay, even if I totally didn't get his character.
I think this book had a little bit of a strike against it from the start because I don't like stories with established couples. We get Ryan and Kamen's beginning in Pain Slut, but in this book they are already a couple living together. I like to see a couple meeting each other and getting the initial attraction thing going on, so I was bummed that all that initial stuff was skipped over.
I also think that this book was a little unfocused. I was REALLY excited about the manties aspect of the story, and I was also really excited about the pony play stuff, but I feel like neither kink was really well explored. The manties stuff was just getting going when the characters sort of moved on to other things, which I was upset about! MORE MANTIES! (<---- my new motto) The pony play stuff also felt... off. It wasn't that much that Kamen and Ryan were into the physical and mental aspects of pony play, but more that they were interested in winning the competition. I was hoping for a really intense pony-play scene or two, but it wasn't like that at all.
I think that this book was just a difference between expectations versus reality. I expected something to blow me away, and I got a fun, interesting story that wasn't quite what I had envisioned. This book still gets 4-stars from me because I loved the feeling of this story, and the writing style was so up my alley. Now I'm just hoping that 24/7 wows the pants off of me.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
March 25, 2016
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Hearts! Cuz 5 Stars just doesn't cut it.
I know it’s the “job” of a reviewer to be objective when reviewing but I’m having a hard time remaining objective when it comes to this book. I think it’s the worst kept secret on the interwebs that I’ve been squeeing about this one for months. My level of excitement has increased with each installment mainly because KAMEN!!!!!!!!!!!
As soon as I read that description in The Subs Club I knew . I knew the way you know about a good melon. Then J.A. sprinkled some magic dust and gave him a MANTIES fetish! And he plays guitar, loves wings and Jolly Ranchers, makes up words, loves baseball and is kind of cocky about his ability to CRUSH anything sports related. So… basically perfect. And, strangely, could be me. But not in, like, an incestussistic way because that's just weird.
J.A. is doing an incredible job in this series capturing the voice of each of these characters and Kamen's voice whispered sweet nothings to me even before I worked out his fetish. Without doubt I wish like hell Kamen was a real person. If I click my heels three times will it make it so?
*frantically clicks heels*
He’s no wordsmith nor will he ever be a Mensa member, but he is bizarrely creative and has a heart the size of Texas; EVERYONE loves him. As much as Dave pistol whips The Subs Club into shape with his control freakishness it’s my belief Kamen is the glue that holds them together. All the big life events, catastrophes and meltdowns that have happened with the guys they always go to Kamen for help which speaks volumes about his character and what kind of friend he is.
Kamen met Ryan in the previous book, Pain Slut, so this is an established relationship. They have just moved in together after 4 mos of dating, an event that has been the source of many a snarky remark from friends and family. Kamen is troubled by the sassiness since he can’t comprehend why you wouldn’t move in with and declare your love for someone if you know it to be true. Who cares how long it's been? He leads with his heart and there isn’t an ounce of artifice about him. But his relationship with Ryan is a HUGE problem for his friends because they miss him. And why wouldn’t you? This is a totally realistic conflict if you ask me.
He and Ryan do have a little hiccup which they work out quickly and go on being amazematastic. They are the fun couple. Ryan is significantly smaller than Kamen, a thing that Kamen adores but also doesn’t miss an opportunity to poke fun at him. They are still trying out different kinks have mishap after mishap. All of which are hysterical. But PetPlayFest will go down in history as one of the funniest things I’ve ever read and it wasn’t just Rymen’s antics either. Everyone hates Cinnamon because she’s a bitch and a half that deserves to be knocked off her high horse. Er, I mean, her high pony?
I’ve thought long and hard about what else has made me laugh this hard before and the only thing I could come up with was Katt Williams’ The Pimp Chronicles. No book has EVER made me laugh this hard. Every time I turned around they were doing something else that had me in stitches. I highlighted and bookmarked like I was studying for an exam! And in the middle of all my gasping, choking and eye wiping there’d be a moment like this:
Or this…
So, yeah, they’re pretty much perfect for each other and I loved their story SO MUCH! I was kind of disappointed for a minute that it wasn’t sexier since MANTIES and PONIES (helloooo! /shocker) but then I just thought that’s stupid because this story made me so happy on so many different levels that to take points off for not being erotic would be a huge disservice to this unicorn of a book. A book like this doesn’t come along that often. Kamen alone deserves 5 hearts as does Ryan and the fact that it made me laugh so hard I couldn’t breathe deserves at least 20 hearts, so 30 Hearts it is!
Definitely my favorite of the series and one that I’ll re-read.
An ARC was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I know it’s the “job” of a reviewer to be objective when reviewing but I’m having a hard time remaining objective when it comes to this book. I think it’s the worst kept secret on the interwebs that I’ve been squeeing about this one for months. My level of excitement has increased with each installment mainly because KAMEN!!!!!!!!!!!
“…Your profile sounds like little orphan Annie grew up and married the sun and they had a child made entirely of the unblemished souls of infant animals.”
As soon as I read that description in The Subs Club I knew . I knew the way you know about a good melon. Then J.A. sprinkled some magic dust and gave him a MANTIES fetish! And he plays guitar, loves wings and Jolly Ranchers, makes up words, loves baseball and is kind of cocky about his ability to CRUSH anything sports related. So… basically perfect. And, strangely, could be me. But not in, like, an incestussistic way because that's just weird.
J.A. is doing an incredible job in this series capturing the voice of each of these characters and Kamen's voice whispered sweet nothings to me even before I worked out his fetish. Without doubt I wish like hell Kamen was a real person. If I click my heels three times will it make it so?
*frantically clicks heels*
He’s no wordsmith nor will he ever be a Mensa member, but he is bizarrely creative and has a heart the size of Texas; EVERYONE loves him. As much as Dave pistol whips The Subs Club into shape with his control freakishness it’s my belief Kamen is the glue that holds them together. All the big life events, catastrophes and meltdowns that have happened with the guys they always go to Kamen for help which speaks volumes about his character and what kind of friend he is.
Kamen met Ryan in the previous book, Pain Slut, so this is an established relationship. They have just moved in together after 4 mos of dating, an event that has been the source of many a snarky remark from friends and family. Kamen is troubled by the sassiness since he can’t comprehend why you wouldn’t move in with and declare your love for someone if you know it to be true. Who cares how long it's been? He leads with his heart and there isn’t an ounce of artifice about him. But his relationship with Ryan is a HUGE problem for his friends because they miss him. And why wouldn’t you? This is a totally realistic conflict if you ask me.
"…You’ve always been the one who makes everyone feel better. About everything. If you’re not around, like, what’s even the point?”
He and Ryan do have a little hiccup which they work out quickly and go on being amazematastic. They are the fun couple. Ryan is significantly smaller than Kamen, a thing that Kamen adores but also doesn’t miss an opportunity to poke fun at him. They are still trying out different kinks have mishap after mishap. All of which are hysterical. But PetPlayFest will go down in history as one of the funniest things I’ve ever read and it wasn’t just Rymen’s antics either. Everyone hates Cinnamon because she’s a bitch and a half that deserves to be knocked off her high horse. Er, I mean, her high pony?
I’ve thought long and hard about what else has made me laugh this hard before and the only thing I could come up with was Katt Williams’ The Pimp Chronicles. No book has EVER made me laugh this hard. Every time I turned around they were doing something else that had me in stitches. I highlighted and bookmarked like I was studying for an exam! And in the middle of all my gasping, choking and eye wiping there’d be a moment like this:
…if he believed I could do something, I could do it.
Or this…
So I just sang it because it made me feel good, and because I wanted Hal to know fast cars didn’t mean tragedy and for Ryan to know that he and I were gonna keep exploring and that we didn’t have to end up with a life that made perfect sense-just one we’d built together.
So, yeah, they’re pretty much perfect for each other and I loved their story SO MUCH! I was kind of disappointed for a minute that it wasn’t sexier since MANTIES and PONIES (helloooo! /shocker) but then I just thought that’s stupid because this story made me so happy on so many different levels that to take points off for not being erotic would be a huge disservice to this unicorn of a book. A book like this doesn’t come along that often. Kamen alone deserves 5 hearts as does Ryan and the fact that it made me laugh so hard I couldn’t breathe deserves at least 20 hearts, so 30 Hearts it is!
Definitely my favorite of the series and one that I’ll re-read.
An ARC was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2017
My first 5+ Stars read of 2016!
I absofreakinglutely LOVED this! LOVED. THIS!!
Kamen is like my spirit animal.
Out of all the Subs Club members, Kamen's story is the one I've been looking forward to the most and I am happy to report I wasn't in the least bit disappointed. I loved every minute of this story: from the first moments of Kamen and his boyfriend Ryan making their way through "adulting", to Kamen standing up for himself with his friends and Ryan, to seeing the lengths Kamen is willing to go through to put Cinnamon in her place...I loved it all.
I especially loved how Kamen is still feeling out what he likes and doesn't like in the BDSM scene. He doesn't want pain, or humiliation, instead he loves to feel good and be praised. That's the kind of kink I love. And there were manties! I love it so much!!
It's not all sexy times and laughs either, there's also depth here. Getting to see Kamen's interactions with his friends and with Ryan, and trying to move past all the hurt and grief of Hal's death.
From start to finish there wasn't a single moment of this story that I didn't enjoy and love. I giggled, I guffawed, I sniffled, and I cheered.
Highly Recommended!
Advanced 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.
I absofreakinglutely LOVED this! LOVED. THIS!!
Kamen is like my spirit animal.
Out of all the Subs Club members, Kamen's story is the one I've been looking forward to the most and I am happy to report I wasn't in the least bit disappointed. I loved every minute of this story: from the first moments of Kamen and his boyfriend Ryan making their way through "adulting", to Kamen standing up for himself with his friends and Ryan, to seeing the lengths Kamen is willing to go through to put Cinnamon in her place...I loved it all.
I especially loved how Kamen is still feeling out what he likes and doesn't like in the BDSM scene. He doesn't want pain, or humiliation, instead he loves to feel good and be praised. That's the kind of kink I love. And there were manties! I love it so much!!
It's not all sexy times and laughs either, there's also depth here. Getting to see Kamen's interactions with his friends and with Ryan, and trying to move past all the hurt and grief of Hal's death.
Bill and Hal didn’t need to be part of everything I thought or discussed. And yeah, shit had changed after Hal died, and it was still changing. I wanted to be allowed to change too. It was just like I’d told the well-dressed hare: different wasn’t bad.
From start to finish there wasn't a single moment of this story that I didn't enjoy and love. I giggled, I guffawed, I sniffled, and I cheered.
Highly Recommended!
Advanced 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.
September 4, 2016
Me while reading 'Manties in a Twist':
I've been looking forward to Kamen's story since book 1. He's the sweet jock who might not be the smartest of the group, but is insightful in his own way. And after Kamen and Ryan's unforgettable and hilarious first meeting in Pain Slut, I knew I'd be in for a treat.
Book 3 in the Subs Club series picks up a few months after Kamen and Ryan first began seeing each other. After clicking together, the two plunged head first and decided to move in together. While Kamen's friends are skeptical, Kamen knows that he wants a serious long-term relationship with Ryan.
This book is different from the previous two in that it focuses on an established couple. The preceding books take readers through the initial phases of the relationship before moving on to the happy ending. In this case, Kamen and Ryan have been dating for a few months and are already quite happy in their relationship. I would have preferred to read about the two in their early days, because I felt disconnected from the story at times.
Even so, it was clear that Ryan and Kamen cared for each other deeply. They're sweet and funny, and will fill you with good feels. I loved every scene of the two being all domesticated and cuddly. And they're hilarious. Did I mention that this book is laugh-out-loud funny?
This is my first read with pony play. I'm not really sure what to think of it. I could appreciate the work and dedication that goes in to it, but I don't believe I'll ever think of animal play as erotic. On the other hand, the manties and cross-dressing were right up my alley. So hot.
However, there's one thing that I really didn't enjoy: Hal. Hal, the deceased fifth member of this group of friends, has been a living ghost since book 1. He effects their interactions with each other, the community, and with their significant others. It's become a bore to read the repetitive introspections and monologues about Hal. Not to mention that he really doesn't sound like a nice person. I'm just of tired of him at this point.
Which is why I don't think I'll be reading the last book, 24/7, because I'm sure Hal is going to be all over that. I'll definitely be waiting for the reviews first.
Overall, 'Manties in a Twist' was a good follow-up to the preceding book. If you're looking for a hilarious kinky couple that will leave you feeling happy and warm, I'd recommend this book.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
I've been looking forward to Kamen's story since book 1. He's the sweet jock who might not be the smartest of the group, but is insightful in his own way. And after Kamen and Ryan's unforgettable and hilarious first meeting in Pain Slut, I knew I'd be in for a treat.
Book 3 in the Subs Club series picks up a few months after Kamen and Ryan first began seeing each other. After clicking together, the two plunged head first and decided to move in together. While Kamen's friends are skeptical, Kamen knows that he wants a serious long-term relationship with Ryan.
This book is different from the previous two in that it focuses on an established couple. The preceding books take readers through the initial phases of the relationship before moving on to the happy ending. In this case, Kamen and Ryan have been dating for a few months and are already quite happy in their relationship. I would have preferred to read about the two in their early days, because I felt disconnected from the story at times.
Even so, it was clear that Ryan and Kamen cared for each other deeply. They're sweet and funny, and will fill you with good feels. I loved every scene of the two being all domesticated and cuddly. And they're hilarious. Did I mention that this book is laugh-out-loud funny?
This is my first read with pony play. I'm not really sure what to think of it. I could appreciate the work and dedication that goes in to it, but I don't believe I'll ever think of animal play as erotic. On the other hand, the manties and cross-dressing were right up my alley. So hot.
However, there's one thing that I really didn't enjoy: Hal. Hal, the deceased fifth member of this group of friends, has been a living ghost since book 1. He effects their interactions with each other, the community, and with their significant others. It's become a bore to read the repetitive introspections and monologues about Hal. Not to mention that he really doesn't sound like a nice person. I'm just of tired of him at this point.
Which is why I don't think I'll be reading the last book, 24/7, because I'm sure Hal is going to be all over that. I'll definitely be waiting for the reviews first.
Overall, 'Manties in a Twist' was a good follow-up to the preceding book. If you're looking for a hilarious kinky couple that will leave you feeling happy and warm, I'd recommend this book.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
April 26, 2016
3 stars.
Well damn! By the end of the book, J.A. Rock had me, once again in this series, caring about two characters that I didn't really like very much in the beginning, while they did things that I definitely wasn't into. Was it hot? Definitely not, even when it could have been, but it was still a good read.
I felt that Kamen was too dudebro-ish and Ryan too grating (and, to be honest, too short) for me to really get into them, which meant I didn't find them to be sexy in any way. I was also so not into the pony play. What I really enjoy is the way the author manages to write characters that are completely different from each other and have them be entirely believable. I also love the way she manages to fit a large cast of characters into a book about two people without having them take over the story. I'm very much awe of her writing ability and would read pretty much anything she wrote, just for the story.
In sum, this book had some funny parts and some sad parts and some good writing all up and through it, so at the end I was definitely rooting for Kamen/Thunder Canyon and Ryan to canter off into the sunset.
Well damn! By the end of the book, J.A. Rock had me, once again in this series, caring about two characters that I didn't really like very much in the beginning, while they did things that I definitely wasn't into. Was it hot? Definitely not, even when it could have been, but it was still a good read.
I felt that Kamen was too dudebro-ish and Ryan too grating (and, to be honest, too short) for me to really get into them, which meant I didn't find them to be sexy in any way. I was also so not into the pony play. What I really enjoy is the way the author manages to write characters that are completely different from each other and have them be entirely believable. I also love the way she manages to fit a large cast of characters into a book about two people without having them take over the story. I'm very much awe of her writing ability and would read pretty much anything she wrote, just for the story.
In sum, this book had some funny parts and some sad parts and some good writing all up and through it, so at the end I was definitely rooting for Kamen/Thunder Canyon and Ryan to canter off into the sunset.
dnf-not-4-me
November 16, 2018I tried for 3 days to get into this and it just didn't happen. I'm going to try again in a few months because I really want to like this one!
February 18, 2016
5 Pony Ride Stars!!!
I have to say I loved this book - this is my favorite book of the series thus far! These two MC are fun and they are not afraid to try new things including wearing female lingerie, experimenting with somethings they find out they don't like, and becoming pony-play fanatics! I have to work on my full review as this book is just perfection for all those who have been enjoying this series and all who have yet to find it... you are going to love Kamen!!
Review posted at Alpha Book Club
*ARC provided by Riptide Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
and Gay Book Reviews
I have to say I loved this book - this is my favorite book of the series thus far! These two MC are fun and they are not afraid to try new things including wearing female lingerie, experimenting with somethings they find out they don't like, and becoming pony-play fanatics! I have to work on my full review as this book is just perfection for all those who have been enjoying this series and all who have yet to find it... you are going to love Kamen!!
Review posted at Alpha Book Club
*ARC provided by Riptide Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
and Gay Book Reviews
April 6, 2016
I will be laughing for days after reading that book! I won't go on and on because I think all of the reviews for this have been positive, so just read some of those. I just want to highlight what I loved most and some other stuff.
This has:
Cross dressing and Manties (duh)
He tugged my chest hair and leaned down to kiss across my collarbone. “And I want you to wear the panties underneath the dress.”
“Yeah?” He was blowing my mind.
“Yeah.” He ran his hand over my crotch. “And then I want to lift your skirt up and pull your panties down.”
Feminisation (only a little bit, but it was enough for me :-) )
“You gonna be a good girl for me?” He said it kinda nervous, like he wasn’t sure I’d still be into the girl stuff. But I was totally into it.
Role-playing (which was SO funny everytime they did it)
Here they're role-playing soliders:
He looked up at me. Lolled his head around a little. “I see the most . . . beautiful light . . .” He closed his eyes all dramatic.
I tapped him. “But don’t die yet, because we haven’t even fucked.”
Pony play
“You’re my pony.” I smiled at him, and didn’t even care about the corniness, because it was true. “Yeah. I’m your fucking pony.”
This story was light and funny but towards the middle I started to get worried that there wouldn't be any substance. That I wouldn't have any deeper feelings other than fun, and while that's true compared to the previous books I definitely got myself a little worked up when Kamen finally had his blow out.
I think this book starts slower. It's feels a bit like a jumble of random experiences between Kamen and Ryan or Kamen and his friends. What I consider to be the main story didn't kick off until later. It almost felt like two books, the first half being manties and getting to know Ryan and Kamen and the second half being pony play and Kamen coming to peace with his place in 'adulting'. Having said that it was obviously EXTREMELY entertaining and I loved it to bits!
This has:
Cross dressing and Manties (duh)
He tugged my chest hair and leaned down to kiss across my collarbone. “And I want you to wear the panties underneath the dress.”
“Yeah?” He was blowing my mind.
“Yeah.” He ran his hand over my crotch. “And then I want to lift your skirt up and pull your panties down.”
Feminisation (only a little bit, but it was enough for me :-) )
“You gonna be a good girl for me?” He said it kinda nervous, like he wasn’t sure I’d still be into the girl stuff. But I was totally into it.
Role-playing (which was SO funny everytime they did it)
Here they're role-playing soliders:
He looked up at me. Lolled his head around a little. “I see the most . . . beautiful light . . .” He closed his eyes all dramatic.
I tapped him. “But don’t die yet, because we haven’t even fucked.”
Pony play
“You’re my pony.” I smiled at him, and didn’t even care about the corniness, because it was true. “Yeah. I’m your fucking pony.”
This story was light and funny but towards the middle I started to get worried that there wouldn't be any substance. That I wouldn't have any deeper feelings other than fun, and while that's true compared to the previous books I definitely got myself a little worked up when Kamen finally had his blow out.
I think this book starts slower. It's feels a bit like a jumble of random experiences between Kamen and Ryan or Kamen and his friends. What I consider to be the main story didn't kick off until later. It almost felt like two books, the first half being manties and getting to know Ryan and Kamen and the second half being pony play and Kamen coming to peace with his place in 'adulting'. Having said that it was obviously EXTREMELY entertaining and I loved it to bits!
April 7, 2016
The Subs Club series is only one installment away from being completed. A scary thought, that is, so for my own peace of mind I choose to keep thinking there is a possibility my wish for another four books with these characters comes true. Miracles can happen, right?
Manties in a Twist, Kamen's book, made me love this series even more, just like I knew it would. It made me want a Kamen of my own, as this Kamen seemed to be the go-to guy to talk about one's troubles, the one even Big D turned to for advice. He is the glue that keeps them all together. And the only one who could pull off the following sentence:
“I won’t feel like a real horse unless you shave my balls.”
Now you think about that...
This was Kamen's story, and it could never be mistaken for anyone else's. That's one of the things I love most about this series, and what makes me admire the author's skills: each book is true to the character it's about. You could take random sentences from the novels, and have no trouble guessing whose book it is from. When someone says they won't feel like a real horse unless you shave their balls, you know that someone is Kamen.
In Pain Slut Kamen met and got spanked by Ryan. In Manties in a Twist he's already living with Ryan, and totally crushing it at adulting. They had a laundry room and everything.
Kamen isn't one for overthinking things, which might be a trait of the other members of that group. He knew he liked Ryan so much he wanted to see him all the time. Moving in together made perfect sense. To him and Ryan. The rest, who like to agonize over every decision they make, were more than skeptical. Kamen doesn't have that problem. As he says himself, he's doesn't waste time trying to talk himself out of good things. That kinda makes him the smartest guy in their group.
We didn't get to read about the beginning of his relationship with Ryan, but in my opinion, what we got from his story was just right for Kamen.
Kamen's kinks were the most fun to read about.
“You look like you’re concentrating really hard on something.”
“I’m trying to feel submissive.”
The most fun and the lightest. That is how Kamen likes it, and Ryan is on board with whatever Kamen prefers to do. Of course, there were manties involved -- that title isn't there for no reason. They were all about the lace...
Then Kamen got his manties in a twist over a certain mean ponygirl. I knew Cinnamon wasn't the group's favorite person in the world, but I never imagined she was something of their nemesis. Either way, Kamen made it mission to beat Cinnamon in a horse show. That was when manties exited the scene and pony gear entered.
Kamen was the best pony ever.
As usual, I was happy to catch glimpses of the other characters, and I do so love the scenes with all of them together. A special treat was Fucktopus. I'd like to know his story. Speaking of the stories I'd like to read, I can't wait for Gould's in 24/7. It'll be a good one, I know it!
***ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
March 31, 2016
3.5 stars
I’d like to think that nothing else surprises me with this series, but I need to remember I have one more book after this one. In my mind Kamen’s story was suppose to be whimsical since he was already in an established relationships. The relationship wasn’t a bummer for me. I liked that they supported each other, and were able to find peace being together. I like how Kamen came to his moments about Hal. He decided that everyone was able to grieve differently and it’s okay. I like how defensive he got when protecting Ryan from his friends. Goodness, I love Kamen, but it just felt like something was missing for me. Maybe it wasn’t as emotional as the other two, but he didn’t seem like the profound type. Well, no can’t really say that because when the man puts his mind to it he really gives it what he got. The whole conception regarding pony play was amazing. I do think he was facing his fears but doing something so out of the box for him.
I think my confusion comes with the exploration of kink. This is the lightest of the book, and his two kinks to be weren’t explored as much as book one and two was. I mean, the manties is the biggest selling point. I think only it being a factor in the minimum way was discouraging for me. I really wanted it explored, maybe something profound could come from it, or who knows maybe he wears them everyday in lieu of briefs. I don’t know, but I wanted to know. The pony play is happenstance for me. It wasn’t something Kamen ever seemed interested in, and only got interested to take down the world’s biggest Bish. I get it compete in something to throw her off. He did kind of put alot more focus into this then I thought he would. I enjoyed reading from his view points on this experience. I liked doubtful Kamen because it showed his serious side.
As usual, the Subs Club appearance is needed. I finally got my kid time!!! Thanks J.A, Zac was amazing. Loved Kamen’s and D conversations. They were hilarious. I loved Kamen’s viewpoint on Hal, and his innate ability to focus on Gould unlike the others would do. His relationship with Miles is so much more then one can expect. Sure he isn’t the brightest bulb but he the glue that definitely keeps these 4 together. I will say that I do love that everything isn’t traditional for either one of these guys. This is an eclectic group of people, but it works.
I’d like to think that nothing else surprises me with this series, but I need to remember I have one more book after this one. In my mind Kamen’s story was suppose to be whimsical since he was already in an established relationships. The relationship wasn’t a bummer for me. I liked that they supported each other, and were able to find peace being together. I like how Kamen came to his moments about Hal. He decided that everyone was able to grieve differently and it’s okay. I like how defensive he got when protecting Ryan from his friends. Goodness, I love Kamen, but it just felt like something was missing for me. Maybe it wasn’t as emotional as the other two, but he didn’t seem like the profound type. Well, no can’t really say that because when the man puts his mind to it he really gives it what he got. The whole conception regarding pony play was amazing. I do think he was facing his fears but doing something so out of the box for him.
I think my confusion comes with the exploration of kink. This is the lightest of the book, and his two kinks to be weren’t explored as much as book one and two was. I mean, the manties is the biggest selling point. I think only it being a factor in the minimum way was discouraging for me. I really wanted it explored, maybe something profound could come from it, or who knows maybe he wears them everyday in lieu of briefs. I don’t know, but I wanted to know. The pony play is happenstance for me. It wasn’t something Kamen ever seemed interested in, and only got interested to take down the world’s biggest Bish. I get it compete in something to throw her off. He did kind of put alot more focus into this then I thought he would. I enjoyed reading from his view points on this experience. I liked doubtful Kamen because it showed his serious side.
As usual, the Subs Club appearance is needed. I finally got my kid time!!! Thanks J.A, Zac was amazing. Loved Kamen’s and D conversations. They were hilarious. I loved Kamen’s viewpoint on Hal, and his innate ability to focus on Gould unlike the others would do. His relationship with Miles is so much more then one can expect. Sure he isn’t the brightest bulb but he the glue that definitely keeps these 4 together. I will say that I do love that everything isn’t traditional for either one of these guys. This is an eclectic group of people, but it works.
March 30, 2016
In the first two books of this series, they not only focused on the continuing storyline of what the Subs Club was set up to be. This book continues along that path, but with a greater emphasis on the divide and sort of separation between the four main characters. I’m not saying there is a major gap in their friendship and that there is a lot of dramatic infighting or anything like that. Just that sometimes, as with real life, the bonds of friendship change, widen in some areas, strengthen in others. For Kamen, he’s at a place in his life where he wants to move on, grow up a little, maybe try some adulting, and doing that is causing a bit of a strain on his friendships. The feelings these changes can cause often bring about bits of hurt, snarky behavior, angst, but that’s okay. In the end, it’s all part of growing as a person. The key is how you address these feeling and issues, and how you find a new balance.
Kamen has a steady boyfriend, they have moved in together. They go to Bed, Bath and Beyond (which I will forever call Triple B) to outfit their new place, and start feeling each other out, discovering their kinks, and how they fit together. The way they go about this was precious and wonderful. Kamen has the biggest heart. The way he and Ryan communicate is sweet and I found the romance between them to be so tender and loving, understanding and accepting. The openness they each have for new things is awesome.
The time comes when Kamen really needs to have his friends at his back. There are moments when my heart broke for the friendships that had troubles, but there was so much rejoicing when those friendships held true. The journey to PetPlayFest is fun and exciting. The work that goes into getting ready for it not only challenges Kamen and Ryan as a couple, but it challenges the whole group.
I really can’t recommend this installment enough. As much as I loved the first two books, I think this is my favorite, and it really has so much to do with Kamen. He’s a really bright soul, so full of love and kindness. The writing is wonderful, the story is almost perfect, and the relationships between everyone are fantastic. I really loved this.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Kamen has a steady boyfriend, they have moved in together. They go to Bed, Bath and Beyond (which I will forever call Triple B) to outfit their new place, and start feeling each other out, discovering their kinks, and how they fit together. The way they go about this was precious and wonderful. Kamen has the biggest heart. The way he and Ryan communicate is sweet and I found the romance between them to be so tender and loving, understanding and accepting. The openness they each have for new things is awesome.
The time comes when Kamen really needs to have his friends at his back. There are moments when my heart broke for the friendships that had troubles, but there was so much rejoicing when those friendships held true. The journey to PetPlayFest is fun and exciting. The work that goes into getting ready for it not only challenges Kamen and Ryan as a couple, but it challenges the whole group.
I really can’t recommend this installment enough. As much as I loved the first two books, I think this is my favorite, and it really has so much to do with Kamen. He’s a really bright soul, so full of love and kindness. The writing is wonderful, the story is almost perfect, and the relationships between everyone are fantastic. I really loved this.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
March 6, 2016
I feel like I'm attending kink college while reading this series. I've never heard of many of the things in this series and it takes me like 3 days to read each book because I spend so much time on Google looking up stuff (which of course leads to YouTube videos). This was my reaction to all of the detailed pony play stuff:
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This book was different in that Kamen and Ryan are in an established relationship when the book starts. It's not about finding love but how you maintain love through every day life, your jobs, your friends etc. This was my least favorite book in this series because I didn't like either Kamen or Ryan as much as I have the prior MC's. They were both just ok. I found Kamen kind of stupid and Ryan kind of abrasive. Despite that I liked how the author portrayed their relationship and how they were together. I really didn't care that much about them but I found the pony play thing so fascinating I couldn't put this down. I don't really understand the draw of this activity but I love learning about new things and other people's ways of life.
My favorite thing about this series is the MC's are not traditional romance types and they come across as every day people with every day challenges. I'm in general a big JA fan but I think this series is her finest work.
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This book was different in that Kamen and Ryan are in an established relationship when the book starts. It's not about finding love but how you maintain love through every day life, your jobs, your friends etc. This was my least favorite book in this series because I didn't like either Kamen or Ryan as much as I have the prior MC's. They were both just ok. I found Kamen kind of stupid and Ryan kind of abrasive. Despite that I liked how the author portrayed their relationship and how they were together. I really didn't care that much about them but I found the pony play thing so fascinating I couldn't put this down. I don't really understand the draw of this activity but I love learning about new things and other people's ways of life.
My favorite thing about this series is the MC's are not traditional romance types and they come across as every day people with every day challenges. I'm in general a big JA fan but I think this series is her finest work.
June 26, 2016
4.5 stars. Jock sub Kamen and miniature dom Ryan have moved in together but Kamen's friends think they might be rushing things. The guys explore dressing up, panties and pony play. This is an excellent story full of humour, romance and kink.
'I loved his tininess, but he was sensitive about it, so it was hard to find ways of, like, expressing my enthusiasm that didn't sound insulting. For instance, I'd learned not to say, "It's like when you have a Chihuahua and you're always afraid you're gonna accidentally sit on it."'
'I loved his tininess, but he was sensitive about it, so it was hard to find ways of, like, expressing my enthusiasm that didn't sound insulting. For instance, I'd learned not to say, "It's like when you have a Chihuahua and you're always afraid you're gonna accidentally sit on it."'
May 25, 2020
This is the lightest, and in some ways the least focused, of the books in this series. Kamen is a sweet, funny, warm-hearted, innocent goofball, who is now living with Ryan, the guy he met in an earlier story. He moves through life lightly, enjoying the moment, not worrying too much about the future, but he does care deeply about Ryan and his friends. I adore him, even if he needs to be pinned down and made to take a breath now and then.
This book follows Ryan and Kamen as they explore the shape their relationship is taking - the dynamics (which have some D/s component, but in a relaxed way.) And the kinks - including cross-dressing, lingerie, and pony-play.
While it was fun to watch them explore both, they only skated over the surface of each of those. There are the beginnings of how Kamen feels as he dresses as a woman, figuring out how it might please them. There are also the beginnings of seeing that pony-play might be a way that they balance their size differences and dominance needs, in something that could be satisfying. But both of those are subsumed a bit to the external plot of trying to beat a hated rival at the pony play competition, and the moments of personal satisfaction got lost in the game. It might be a fun intro to pony play and pet roleplay for someone who hasn't experienced either, but the interpersonal satisfactions of that kink are only touched on here.
This was still a fun adventure with these two, but I came away feeling like the deeper and more satisfying parts of their explorations together were yet to come.
This book follows Ryan and Kamen as they explore the shape their relationship is taking - the dynamics (which have some D/s component, but in a relaxed way.) And the kinks - including cross-dressing, lingerie, and pony-play.
While it was fun to watch them explore both, they only skated over the surface of each of those. There are the beginnings of how Kamen feels as he dresses as a woman, figuring out how it might please them. There are also the beginnings of seeing that pony-play might be a way that they balance their size differences and dominance needs, in something that could be satisfying. But both of those are subsumed a bit to the external plot of trying to beat a hated rival at the pony play competition, and the moments of personal satisfaction got lost in the game. It might be a fun intro to pony play and pet roleplay for someone who hasn't experienced either, but the interpersonal satisfactions of that kink are only touched on here.
This was still a fun adventure with these two, but I came away feeling like the deeper and more satisfying parts of their explorations together were yet to come.
May 31, 2018
3.5 for Kamen & Ryan’s book. This was a different vibe to the first two books - these guys lived together and became firmly established. I really felt for Kamen, such a beautiful soul, being torn between the love for his friends and his love for Ryan. I was somewhat annoyed with Dave in this book - such a funny guy but he was an ass to Kamen and Ryan. He put pressure on Kamen and really made things hard for him. I’m glad Kamen stuck to his guns. The pony play element was hilarious... glad they moved from the lingerie fetish as it was hard to imagine Kamen to suddenly develop this kink. The intensity of Hal’s death continues..and poor Ricky was another person pushed aside because he “ took sides” I really hope they can get past this pain so that everyone can move on.
December 21, 2017
Fucktopus stole the show ;) <3
June 10, 2019
Kamen and Ryan have been living together for a little while. I knew from the previous book that they were together but I wanted more details about the beginning of their relationship. These 2 just seem to click together and get all their weird inside jokes. I laughed quite a bit reading this book.
I usually don't love pony play, but I gobbled it up here. Kamen and Ryan were so new to this fetish, so we got to learn right along side of them.
I'm happy that Kamen and David talked things through. Still loving this series.
I usually don't love pony play, but I gobbled it up here. Kamen and Ryan were so new to this fetish, so we got to learn right along side of them.
I'm happy that Kamen and David talked things through. Still loving this series.
April 5, 2016
Full reviewage on Prism Book Alliance®
”It’s huhhhh-mazing.” I admired the detail work on the well-dressed hare’s puffy sleeves “The guys are gonna shit when they see it.” Okay, Dave would think it was cool. Miles would think it was dumb. And Gould probably wouldn’t say anything, but he’d give me that look, the one that was like a thumbs-up with his eyes.
They’re baaaaaaaack! The gang is back and Kamen is our wonderful host this time.
Yes! ~pumps fist~
I had such a blast reading this, being with these characters, experiencing all of the changes they’re going through. This might be the most introspective, or narratively accessible certainly, of this series. Kamen has an unmistakable voice and let me all the way in, man, all the way in.
It will quickly become obvious that I had to resissssssssst filling this review with quotes. Fill, I say, fill! To the brim. JA Rock is awn her game in this book.
But now I was living with a guy I loved, and I know how to do stuff like wash windows with vinegar and newspapers and clean the baseboards. I was a fucking adult.
I grabbed some animal crackers and a jar of peanut butter from the cabinet and went to the table.
~nods~ that’s the way to do it, Kamen.
Wait, one more. I swear, just one more… for now.
My phone made a lightsaber sound.
Yeah it did! You go, boy. ~hi5’s Kamen~
Now then. Ryan. Are you ‘the one’? You seem like a good match for our Kamen. Intelligent, silly, and just as willing as Kamen to try new things. No wonder you two made for such a fantastic story here.
Now, Kamen’s friends? They aren’t so convinced of this relationship. I know, I know, it seems odd given what we’ve experienced through the first two books, right? Yeah. Lots going on here, lots that these guys are going to have to deal with if they want their friendships to maintain, and grow, and do the same as individuals as their lives as things begin to change in many ways.
Speaking of, we get much quality time with Dave, Gould and Miles. Each time one of them is on page, important things are happening and emotion is sometimes the co-star. I don’t want to say much more than that but, believe me, you’ll get your fix for all of them.
Rock continues to demonstrate her ability to craft her characters through intimate gestures, small moments, and how important they are in our lives, how they’re often the things that create the anchors to which we’re tethered, especially with our friends.
When I started this book, I wasn’t sure how much I’d get from it, from Kamen specifically, given what we experienced in the first two books. But listen, he’s deep. He’s much more than most people bargain for, and even his friends are having difficulty in recognizing that. Well, except Gould, he seems to know, and appreciate, and take proper advantage, in good ways. There is so much meat on the characterization bones that are Kamen. He’s smart, insightful, and he tells it like it is but isn’t hurtful in doing so, he cares about how other people feel and is good at reading that.
It had been sort of the same with Ryan, but now that I was older, it was a little harder to get other people caught up on my story. And harder for me to catch up on theirs. But maybe that was the point of this relationship. It was a new phase in my life, so I had to kind of step away from the old stories and get ready to make new ones.
This and other realizations of Kamen’s, my gosh, could I relate having experienced them in my own life.
Along those lines, I have to say, I had that feeling. You know the one. The entire time I was reading this, it felt like it had been written for me. That somehow Rock had gotten into my brain and extracted my experiences, the experiences of my friends, and put them into this story. Universality, my friends. Or, as Kamen might say, awe-freakin-some-mazing.
Well before the end, Kamen and Ryan had earned fave couple status. They’re discovering and learning together, whether about how things change, how friendships evolve, what sorts of kink work and which don’t, and much more. I am even forced to say ~takes a deep breath~ that they could not be any cuter together. GAH.
Don’t worry, as usual, Rock finds ways to knock you for an emotional loop. I was looped, man, I was looped. And it was allllll worth it.
You could probably technically read this as a standalone since Kamen and Ryan are the main focus but, boy howdy, would you miss some of the more emotional moments with the other characters who were the main characters in the previous two books.
I’m working hard not to flail here, folks. What a fantastically wonderful story filled with fantastically wonderful characters. This book has earned a place on my comfort read shelf. Yup.
”It’s huhhhh-mazing.” I admired the detail work on the well-dressed hare’s puffy sleeves “The guys are gonna shit when they see it.” Okay, Dave would think it was cool. Miles would think it was dumb. And Gould probably wouldn’t say anything, but he’d give me that look, the one that was like a thumbs-up with his eyes.
They’re baaaaaaaack! The gang is back and Kamen is our wonderful host this time.
Yes! ~pumps fist~
I had such a blast reading this, being with these characters, experiencing all of the changes they’re going through. This might be the most introspective, or narratively accessible certainly, of this series. Kamen has an unmistakable voice and let me all the way in, man, all the way in.
It will quickly become obvious that I had to resissssssssst filling this review with quotes. Fill, I say, fill! To the brim. JA Rock is awn her game in this book.
But now I was living with a guy I loved, and I know how to do stuff like wash windows with vinegar and newspapers and clean the baseboards. I was a fucking adult.
I grabbed some animal crackers and a jar of peanut butter from the cabinet and went to the table.
~nods~ that’s the way to do it, Kamen.
Wait, one more. I swear, just one more… for now.
My phone made a lightsaber sound.
Yeah it did! You go, boy. ~hi5’s Kamen~
Now then. Ryan. Are you ‘the one’? You seem like a good match for our Kamen. Intelligent, silly, and just as willing as Kamen to try new things. No wonder you two made for such a fantastic story here.
Now, Kamen’s friends? They aren’t so convinced of this relationship. I know, I know, it seems odd given what we’ve experienced through the first two books, right? Yeah. Lots going on here, lots that these guys are going to have to deal with if they want their friendships to maintain, and grow, and do the same as individuals as their lives as things begin to change in many ways.
Speaking of, we get much quality time with Dave, Gould and Miles. Each time one of them is on page, important things are happening and emotion is sometimes the co-star. I don’t want to say much more than that but, believe me, you’ll get your fix for all of them.
Rock continues to demonstrate her ability to craft her characters through intimate gestures, small moments, and how important they are in our lives, how they’re often the things that create the anchors to which we’re tethered, especially with our friends.
When I started this book, I wasn’t sure how much I’d get from it, from Kamen specifically, given what we experienced in the first two books. But listen, he’s deep. He’s much more than most people bargain for, and even his friends are having difficulty in recognizing that. Well, except Gould, he seems to know, and appreciate, and take proper advantage, in good ways. There is so much meat on the characterization bones that are Kamen. He’s smart, insightful, and he tells it like it is but isn’t hurtful in doing so, he cares about how other people feel and is good at reading that.
It had been sort of the same with Ryan, but now that I was older, it was a little harder to get other people caught up on my story. And harder for me to catch up on theirs. But maybe that was the point of this relationship. It was a new phase in my life, so I had to kind of step away from the old stories and get ready to make new ones.
This and other realizations of Kamen’s, my gosh, could I relate having experienced them in my own life.
Along those lines, I have to say, I had that feeling. You know the one. The entire time I was reading this, it felt like it had been written for me. That somehow Rock had gotten into my brain and extracted my experiences, the experiences of my friends, and put them into this story. Universality, my friends. Or, as Kamen might say, awe-freakin-some-mazing.
Well before the end, Kamen and Ryan had earned fave couple status. They’re discovering and learning together, whether about how things change, how friendships evolve, what sorts of kink work and which don’t, and much more. I am even forced to say ~takes a deep breath~ that they could not be any cuter together. GAH.
Don’t worry, as usual, Rock finds ways to knock you for an emotional loop. I was looped, man, I was looped. And it was allllll worth it.
You could probably technically read this as a standalone since Kamen and Ryan are the main focus but, boy howdy, would you miss some of the more emotional moments with the other characters who were the main characters in the previous two books.
I’m working hard not to flail here, folks. What a fantastically wonderful story filled with fantastically wonderful characters. This book has earned a place on my comfort read shelf. Yup.
April 25, 2016
Manties in a Twist is a thrilling view from a gender fluid couple. Make no mistake, Kamen is all boy and he loves cock. What is fabulous about Kamen is his complete disregard for societal dictates of what men and women should wear. He likes panties and he is going to wear them. Although, here, we call them manties. This book is the Third in The Subs Club series. It can be read as a standalone but it is not recommended. Characters from previous books show up in this one. Their past trauma helps make sense of how they treat Kamen.
This is probably sacrilegious, but I feel as though this series is like the Gospels in the Bible. Why? Because four disciples provides their story of a specific event. In this case, the four submissives have their story of life after Hal's death. I made you think, didn't I? Whilst I liked Kamen and Ryan, their story didn't speak to me as much as Miles and Dave's. The chemistry for me to Kamen fizzled. Still, I do admire Kamen and his wanting to move on. This story is all about Kamen's personal growth. His choice in partner and wanting to look to the future seems more terrifying to the fabulous foursome. I think it is because he is growing apart from them with his own interests. What irks me is how the three friends treat Kamen and his lover. Sure Ryan is a bit different, but really, did they have to exclude Ryan so much? Hal was not a saint and the way some place him on a pedestal is difficult to stomach.
Still, as Kamen's journey to move past Hal's tragic and preventable death progresses, crazy stuff happens. Ms. Rock throws in not only cross dressing, but pony play! YAY! The pony play scenes in this book are fabulous. It seems Ms. Rock did some thorough research on this one. I am impressed with the training scenes as well as the competitions. I have yet to make my way to a pony farm. Pony farm attendees are usually by invitation only. Someday, I hope to secure an invite. Until that day comes, I am going to take Ms. Rock's portrayal to be as close to reality as can be.
Now, with all the character development, BDSM kink and general somber growing up theme, one would think this book is depressing and perhaps serious tone. Let's be real. This is Ms. Rock. She can inject humour in all sorts of wacky ways. Here are a few link I enjoyed.
We’d wanted a unique painting, and had been trying to decide between a hare and a megalodon, which were my and Ryan’s favorite animals, respectively. I was glad we’d gone with the hare, because you could make a hare look classy, but that was harder to do with a megalodon. (Kindle loc. 86-88)
I really have no words. I do have questions. Is there a picture of this classy hare? Because I really want to see it.
“Your boxers have a hole in the back.”
I glanced down over my shoulder. “That’s on purpose. It’s my easy-access hole.” -(Kindle loc. 146-148)
Wow, I once again have no words. I still have questions. Where do we buy these boxers?
Miles looked at him sharply. “We all need to stop being so snack-motivated. The phalluses of every man in that club have taken a ‘fun dip’ in innumerable orifices.” (Kindle loc. 1689-1691)
Where does she come up with this stuff? I busted up laughing at this one and I do not think I can think of dip anymore without seeing dicks and orifices.
Maya reached for her glass of water. “Nobody uses the term ‘blouse’ anymore. Except old people.” (Kindle loc. 1845-1846)
*Cringe* I guess I am an old person. I use the term blouse. Why would we not use blouse?
This third book is a delightful combination of silliness, seriousness and self-reflection. The title fits this book so perfectly. Recommended for m/m readers who enjoy epiphanies, pony play and a side dish of kink to their romance.
*provided by NetGalley
This is probably sacrilegious, but I feel as though this series is like the Gospels in the Bible. Why? Because four disciples provides their story of a specific event. In this case, the four submissives have their story of life after Hal's death. I made you think, didn't I? Whilst I liked Kamen and Ryan, their story didn't speak to me as much as Miles and Dave's. The chemistry for me to Kamen fizzled. Still, I do admire Kamen and his wanting to move on. This story is all about Kamen's personal growth. His choice in partner and wanting to look to the future seems more terrifying to the fabulous foursome. I think it is because he is growing apart from them with his own interests. What irks me is how the three friends treat Kamen and his lover. Sure Ryan is a bit different, but really, did they have to exclude Ryan so much? Hal was not a saint and the way some place him on a pedestal is difficult to stomach.
Still, as Kamen's journey to move past Hal's tragic and preventable death progresses, crazy stuff happens. Ms. Rock throws in not only cross dressing, but pony play! YAY! The pony play scenes in this book are fabulous. It seems Ms. Rock did some thorough research on this one. I am impressed with the training scenes as well as the competitions. I have yet to make my way to a pony farm. Pony farm attendees are usually by invitation only. Someday, I hope to secure an invite. Until that day comes, I am going to take Ms. Rock's portrayal to be as close to reality as can be.
Now, with all the character development, BDSM kink and general somber growing up theme, one would think this book is depressing and perhaps serious tone. Let's be real. This is Ms. Rock. She can inject humour in all sorts of wacky ways. Here are a few link I enjoyed.
We’d wanted a unique painting, and had been trying to decide between a hare and a megalodon, which were my and Ryan’s favorite animals, respectively. I was glad we’d gone with the hare, because you could make a hare look classy, but that was harder to do with a megalodon. (Kindle loc. 86-88)
I really have no words. I do have questions. Is there a picture of this classy hare? Because I really want to see it.
“Your boxers have a hole in the back.”
I glanced down over my shoulder. “That’s on purpose. It’s my easy-access hole.” -(Kindle loc. 146-148)
Wow, I once again have no words. I still have questions. Where do we buy these boxers?
Miles looked at him sharply. “We all need to stop being so snack-motivated. The phalluses of every man in that club have taken a ‘fun dip’ in innumerable orifices.” (Kindle loc. 1689-1691)
Where does she come up with this stuff? I busted up laughing at this one and I do not think I can think of dip anymore without seeing dicks and orifices.
Maya reached for her glass of water. “Nobody uses the term ‘blouse’ anymore. Except old people.” (Kindle loc. 1845-1846)
*Cringe* I guess I am an old person. I use the term blouse. Why would we not use blouse?
This third book is a delightful combination of silliness, seriousness and self-reflection. The title fits this book so perfectly. Recommended for m/m readers who enjoy epiphanies, pony play and a side dish of kink to their romance.
*provided by NetGalley
February 14, 2016
Kamen and Ryan's story, and my favourite so far!!
This book differs from the others in that this story is about an established couple and although they are ok together it is their friends who need to realise that this is a couple in love. Kamen has changed. He isn't just a goofy, funny, dumb jock. He is now deeply in love with Ryan and although Ryan may be physically much smaller, their love has a creative dynamism of it's own.
And that creativity leads them to competitive pony play, but that is only part of the story.
Kamen and Ryan are in love. They have moved in together, share credit cards, discuss their hopes and dreams with each other and explore their kinks togther. They are very much besotted with each other and tease each other, laugh and goof about together all the time, but the rest of the subs club find this togetherness kind of jarring.
Kamen was always the big, dumb, fun guy with the guitar, comic story lines and the mum who also likes BDSM. Kamen was very much one of the lads, always at the Sub Club meetings strumming away with his guitar, but now his guitar has a permanent home in his new home with Ryan and Kamen doesn't know exactly what is happening in the lives of his friends because life with Ryan is all consuming.
And his friends don't really know how to take this new Kamen who now has a growing love and life of his own.
I did enjoy the way in which Ryan and Karmen recognise their love for each other and take time to develop their relationship together. As they become closer and closer, they form their own unit and this means that their friends now have to take a different position in relation to the both of them. Kamen is no longer single and Ryan is now his primary focus.
But Kamen is a good guy and eventually his relationship blossoms in a way that touches his friends.
And when Kamen and Ryan enter a Pony play competition he finds his friends are very much behind him.
This is very much a story which explores both the relationship between two individuals and also explores the dynamics between the couple and their friends. I felt a bit irritated with the rest of the group and their attitude towards Kamen and I think it was because he didn't agonise over his relationship with Ryan. He saw him, he liked him, they moved in together and they fell in love, and for their friends this was just too fast.
But who is love for?
And why should the pace of change within a relationship be determined by the opinions of others?
And then of course there is the kinky side with Ryan and Kamen really exploring their desires for each other, trying new things and even taking on a rival in a local competition.
At first I wondered where this story was going but I liked the differences between this book and the first two books in the series. And I also enjoyed the continuity with the earlier stories because we get to see a glimpse of Dave and D, and a glimpse of Drix and Miles but this doesn't overshadow the focus on Ryan and Kamen.
I also like the humour. It is a kind of geeky, comical humour with much loving banter between the two guys and I enjoyed this. Kamen and Ryan both share interests and even those these are really goofy they play these out together and create things, albeit their nerdy entertainment activities. I really liked them together and this is a great story because it also moves the group on a bit in the way they remember and grieve for Hal.
The sub club series is different to most of the BDSM stories that I have come across. It has a humorous feel to it although some parts tackle quite serious issues. It also has a cast of very entertaining characters and I think Kamen and Ryan are my most favourite couple so far.
So all in all a great read and a really enjoyable series.
Copy provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley.
This book differs from the others in that this story is about an established couple and although they are ok together it is their friends who need to realise that this is a couple in love. Kamen has changed. He isn't just a goofy, funny, dumb jock. He is now deeply in love with Ryan and although Ryan may be physically much smaller, their love has a creative dynamism of it's own.
And that creativity leads them to competitive pony play, but that is only part of the story.
Kamen and Ryan are in love. They have moved in together, share credit cards, discuss their hopes and dreams with each other and explore their kinks togther. They are very much besotted with each other and tease each other, laugh and goof about together all the time, but the rest of the subs club find this togetherness kind of jarring.
Kamen was always the big, dumb, fun guy with the guitar, comic story lines and the mum who also likes BDSM. Kamen was very much one of the lads, always at the Sub Club meetings strumming away with his guitar, but now his guitar has a permanent home in his new home with Ryan and Kamen doesn't know exactly what is happening in the lives of his friends because life with Ryan is all consuming.
And his friends don't really know how to take this new Kamen who now has a growing love and life of his own.
I did enjoy the way in which Ryan and Karmen recognise their love for each other and take time to develop their relationship together. As they become closer and closer, they form their own unit and this means that their friends now have to take a different position in relation to the both of them. Kamen is no longer single and Ryan is now his primary focus.
But Kamen is a good guy and eventually his relationship blossoms in a way that touches his friends.
And when Kamen and Ryan enter a Pony play competition he finds his friends are very much behind him.
This is very much a story which explores both the relationship between two individuals and also explores the dynamics between the couple and their friends. I felt a bit irritated with the rest of the group and their attitude towards Kamen and I think it was because he didn't agonise over his relationship with Ryan. He saw him, he liked him, they moved in together and they fell in love, and for their friends this was just too fast.
But who is love for?
And why should the pace of change within a relationship be determined by the opinions of others?
And then of course there is the kinky side with Ryan and Kamen really exploring their desires for each other, trying new things and even taking on a rival in a local competition.
At first I wondered where this story was going but I liked the differences between this book and the first two books in the series. And I also enjoyed the continuity with the earlier stories because we get to see a glimpse of Dave and D, and a glimpse of Drix and Miles but this doesn't overshadow the focus on Ryan and Kamen.
I also like the humour. It is a kind of geeky, comical humour with much loving banter between the two guys and I enjoyed this. Kamen and Ryan both share interests and even those these are really goofy they play these out together and create things, albeit their nerdy entertainment activities. I really liked them together and this is a great story because it also moves the group on a bit in the way they remember and grieve for Hal.
The sub club series is different to most of the BDSM stories that I have come across. It has a humorous feel to it although some parts tackle quite serious issues. It also has a cast of very entertaining characters and I think Kamen and Ryan are my most favourite couple so far.
So all in all a great read and a really enjoyable series.
Copy provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley.
June 22, 2016
Well, what can I say....I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it was a great addition to the series. Kamen and Ryan have decided to move in together after just only four months of being a couple, lets just say that not all of the "Sub Club" Members are to happy about this and that puts a bit of a wedge between Kamen and Dave.
Kamen and Ryan are delving into different kinks which include cross dressing, pet play (Kamen aka Thunder Canyon), and golden showers. I have to say when the bathroom scene happened I couldn't stop laughing - it was HYSTERICAL!
I love Kamen he is the true life of the party and even though he has some moments of reflection that are a little sad he is still a happy go lucky kind of guy, I picture him as the guy that just draws your attention when he walks into a room.
***I have received this book from Riptide Publishing through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
Kamen and Ryan are delving into different kinks which include cross dressing, pet play (Kamen aka Thunder Canyon), and golden showers. I have to say when the bathroom scene happened I couldn't stop laughing - it was HYSTERICAL!
I love Kamen he is the true life of the party and even though he has some moments of reflection that are a little sad he is still a happy go lucky kind of guy, I picture him as the guy that just draws your attention when he walks into a room.
***I have received this book from Riptide Publishing through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
May 9, 2016
Well, I have to say I'm a bit disappointed. I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first two books in the series. But I don't think it was the book. It was me. This book was funny. That was just who Kamen and Ryan are. The are funny guys, so they had me laughing a lot, but I had a hard time taking them seriously. Which I think was part of their story. Well, mainly Kamen. He's met a great guy that he absolutely adores and he's trying to be an adult and do the adult-y responsible things. But his friends just don't see that he's growing up. And now that he's living with his boyfriend and spending more time with him, his friendships are suffering.
I think I enjoyed their venture into pony play more than the drama with Dave, because you could see that Kamen was growing serious about it, after it started as just a joke. But it still got a bit annoying to me. I live with someone who isn't serious enough and makes everything a joke. Who won't talk about the heavy stuff. Who compliments with insults, etc. And it gets old quick. So although I liked Kamen, he got on my nerves. And his relationship with Ryan didn't seem to gel for me.
An ARC was provided by Riptide via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I think I enjoyed their venture into pony play more than the drama with Dave, because you could see that Kamen was growing serious about it, after it started as just a joke. But it still got a bit annoying to me. I live with someone who isn't serious enough and makes everything a joke. Who won't talk about the heavy stuff. Who compliments with insults, etc. And it gets old quick. So although I liked Kamen, he got on my nerves. And his relationship with Ryan didn't seem to gel for me.
An ARC was provided by Riptide via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2016
★★★★☆½ ~ 4.5 Stars
Enjoyed this way more than I expected to. Kamen and Ryan are adventurous and willing to explore different things, just not scat!, and make a cute couple. They are both 'adulting' for the first time and it's scary and wonderful, and life-changing! They're making their way and it's taking some time for Kamen's long-time friends to adjust.
I had fun with the status updates. Kamen has a unique voice and I liked that he and Ryan were learning together, I mean you don't instantly know pony play, I thought it was realistic how they figured out how stuff works and tried different things in different ways. You don't know what's going to excite you sexually until you try something and that bell goes off in your head.
Over 18
Enjoyed this way more than I expected to. Kamen and Ryan are adventurous and willing to explore different things, just not scat!, and make a cute couple. They are both 'adulting' for the first time and it's scary and wonderful, and life-changing! They're making their way and it's taking some time for Kamen's long-time friends to adjust.
I had fun with the status updates. Kamen has a unique voice and I liked that he and Ryan were learning together, I mean you don't instantly know pony play, I thought it was realistic how they figured out how stuff works and tried different things in different ways. You don't know what's going to excite you sexually until you try something and that bell goes off in your head.
Over 18
May 21, 2016
Men in panties, yum! I didn't feel like I got enough of the manties, but I did do some serious laughing throughout this book. The honest nature of Kamen was so refreshing and hilarious, from farting to boogas. PetPlay Fest was funny as, especially, Glazer, Fucktopus, and Cinnamon was a total biotch. Kamen really grew as a person, and kicked adultings butt, I totally fell for him, the big man-child. Also Thunder is the most Awesomest stallion ever. I wasn't too enamoured with Ryan, but I got why Kamen loved him.
There was some seriousness interlaced with the funny; finding a balance between old friends and new relationships. Moving forward after the death of a close friend.
A really good book, I would read this one again.
Recommended: 4 Stars! ****
There was some seriousness interlaced with the funny; finding a balance between old friends and new relationships. Moving forward after the death of a close friend.
A really good book, I would read this one again.
Recommended: 4 Stars! ****
May 22, 2016
That was completely ridiculous in the best possible way.
I was worried about this book being from Kamen's point of view. It's difficult to write from the POV of someone who isn't very bright. A lot of times it comes across as fake or condescending. This story was neither. It was really easy to empathize with both Kamen and Ryan both of whom have characteristics that would make them easy targets of buffoonery or cruel humor. I always felt like I was laughing along with them on their journey. For such comical sex scenes they were surprisingly hot. It was nice for an author acknowledge the absurdity involved with different kinds kink while still being able to portray how it gets people hot and bothered. A lot of times kink is *so* serious.
I was worried about this book being from Kamen's point of view. It's difficult to write from the POV of someone who isn't very bright. A lot of times it comes across as fake or condescending. This story was neither. It was really easy to empathize with both Kamen and Ryan both of whom have characteristics that would make them easy targets of buffoonery or cruel humor. I always felt like I was laughing along with them on their journey. For such comical sex scenes they were surprisingly hot. It was nice for an author acknowledge the absurdity involved with different kinds kink while still being able to portray how it gets people hot and bothered. A lot of times kink is *so* serious.
April 6, 2016
I love laid-back, positive-thinking, unashamed, enthusiastic people - probably because I am exactly the opposite. So, Kamen is pretty much my ideal guy.
I would give everything to have someone like him in my life.
Loved this. A new favorite.
I would give everything to have someone like him in my life.
Loved this. A new favorite.
April 21, 2017
I really enjoyed this book... Kamen is adorable. Love the way the author changes the style of each book for each character.
;) Dave is still my favorite.
;) Dave is still my favorite.
July 27, 2017
'I loved that I submitted to him even though he couldn’t have physically overpowered me. I felt like his fucking dragon on a chain. I’d do anything he told me, but I’d murder anyone who tried to hurt him'.
This series, 'The Subs Club' provides a huge amount of outrageous fun mixed with pathos. In truth I was waiting for the next instalment with bated breath although Kamen's story turns out not my favourite of the series.
Possibly it's simply a difference between my expectations versus reality. The first two books blew me away - I simply can't recommend them highly enough.
This instalment is fun and interesting but note quite what I hoped for. I was anticipating something a little more thoughtful. The exploration of the kinks Kamen and Ryan enjoy - manties and pony-play is left somewhat untapped.
Since Kamen isn't the sharpest pencil in the box, perhaps it shouldn't be a surprise that he switches easily from silky manties to bits, bridles, reins, and tails.
Of course J.A. Rock has a true skill and can catch my interest in Kamen and Ryan, characters whom I didn't particularly like in the beginning, and who do things that I am really not into and yet by the end I am fond of them both.
I didn't find it a particularly hot read, but it is warm and funny (just like Kamen actually). A great addition to the series, since it doesn't just focus on this couple but also gives glimpses of their whole group of friends. It's great to catch up with them all again. An utter delight.
This can be read as a standalone. However I recommend that if you haven't yet taken the plunge, that you start at the beginning of the series. It is beautifully crafted, funny, poignant and insightful, combining both deep and light-hearted moments and characters that are perfectly flawed and full of life and love.
This is not my favourite but it is very good.
***My thanks to the publisher who provided a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review***
February 21, 2016
I've read many J.A. Rock books and I have to say this series is definitely her best writing yet. I'm not sure whether she found her true calling or maybe the characters won't stop nagging her until she tells their stories, but these books seem to me like they're written from the heart.
Kamen has been one of my favorite characters in this series and I found his hilarious and original songs to be a constant source of amusement. Kamen has been the easy going one, the least smartest, the one his friends counted on no matter what. Kamen seemed like a pretty simple character so far, sort of "what you see is what you get", but we all know still waters run deep. That couldn't be any more accurate when it comes to Kamen. Kamen has the biggest heart of all, he loves his friends, loves his mother, he loves Ryan, and he wants nothing more than for everyone to get along and be like a big happy family.
We know from Pain Slut that Kamen and Ryan are going to be together, but I never expected the tension their relationship brought to Kamen and David's friendship. There's jealousy and hurt feelings, and Kamen's heart is broken along with mine, because Kamen should NEVER be anything but happy.
Ryan and Kamen's relationship is very different from the previous two couples'; this isn't so much the case of I'm the dom, you're the sub, drop your trousers so I can stripe your ass. Kamen and Ryan are more about lace panties and sexy dresses, scorching hot role play and even some pony games. They have their own brand of kink very different from what we've gotten so far, which is absolutely great! I really loved Kamen's honest, hilarious and very much real reactions to seeing himself in women's lace panties. What I found absolutely fantastic was that I totally forgot Kamen isn't a real person! I mean I had to remind myself over and over again that Rock has written this character and this isn't a story told by a real-life character, and trust me when I say this doesn't happen to me often!
While I liked Ryan and Kamen as a couple, I wasn't too sure of my feelings for Ryan as an individual. I thought he was too possessive of Kamen and he never truly tried to understand and become a part of the friendship with the rest of the guys. But at the same time all this conflict allowed us to see just how many layers Kamen has, how mature his thinking is regarding their friend's death, what his hopes and desires and dreams are regarding the future, and how deeply and completely he loves Ryan. I loved Kamen to pieces, but at times I wished someone else for him, someone other than Ryan.
This was a great book, fantastic even, but not exactly what I expected to get considering this is Kamen's book. He has been the funniest and the quirkiest of them all, so I expected more genuine humor. There was certainly moments that were funny, I thought there was too much focus on the pony competition. I understood the reason behind Kamen's motivation, but it wan't something I could connect with. And the competition itself was leaning more towards ridiculous than real, with eye rolling moments and incredulous WTF moments as well.
This was a great book but my least favorite so far; my favorite book remains David and D's book.
Kamen has been one of my favorite characters in this series and I found his hilarious and original songs to be a constant source of amusement. Kamen has been the easy going one, the least smartest, the one his friends counted on no matter what. Kamen seemed like a pretty simple character so far, sort of "what you see is what you get", but we all know still waters run deep. That couldn't be any more accurate when it comes to Kamen. Kamen has the biggest heart of all, he loves his friends, loves his mother, he loves Ryan, and he wants nothing more than for everyone to get along and be like a big happy family.
We know from Pain Slut that Kamen and Ryan are going to be together, but I never expected the tension their relationship brought to Kamen and David's friendship. There's jealousy and hurt feelings, and Kamen's heart is broken along with mine, because Kamen should NEVER be anything but happy.
Ryan and Kamen's relationship is very different from the previous two couples'; this isn't so much the case of I'm the dom, you're the sub, drop your trousers so I can stripe your ass. Kamen and Ryan are more about lace panties and sexy dresses, scorching hot role play and even some pony games. They have their own brand of kink very different from what we've gotten so far, which is absolutely great! I really loved Kamen's honest, hilarious and very much real reactions to seeing himself in women's lace panties. What I found absolutely fantastic was that I totally forgot Kamen isn't a real person! I mean I had to remind myself over and over again that Rock has written this character and this isn't a story told by a real-life character, and trust me when I say this doesn't happen to me often!
While I liked Ryan and Kamen as a couple, I wasn't too sure of my feelings for Ryan as an individual. I thought he was too possessive of Kamen and he never truly tried to understand and become a part of the friendship with the rest of the guys. But at the same time all this conflict allowed us to see just how many layers Kamen has, how mature his thinking is regarding their friend's death, what his hopes and desires and dreams are regarding the future, and how deeply and completely he loves Ryan. I loved Kamen to pieces, but at times I wished someone else for him, someone other than Ryan.
This was a great book, fantastic even, but not exactly what I expected to get considering this is Kamen's book. He has been the funniest and the quirkiest of them all, so I expected more genuine humor. There was certainly moments that were funny, I thought there was too much focus on the pony competition. I understood the reason behind Kamen's motivation, but it wan't something I could connect with. And the competition itself was leaning more towards ridiculous than real, with eye rolling moments and incredulous WTF moments as well.
This was a great book but my least favorite so far; my favorite book remains David and D's book.
May 30, 2016
3.5 Stars
The series has been a lot of outrageous fun, and I was super duper looking forward to this book. But it’s not my favorite of the series.
There is tons of humor here that makes this a light and funny read, just not quite the full scope of what I was hoping for.
Of this group of friends who formed The Subs Club, Kamen is the comedian, clown, and resident goofball. Being in his head was…kind of like what I’d think of being in the head of a golden retriever puppy.
Kamen is fun, and he’s a sweetheart, and he has a crack-tastic sense of humor. There was some personal growth as he contemplated his and his friends’ ongoing grief over the loss of their friend Hal and how they’re all grieving very differently. And he’s just moved in with his boyfriend of four months so was faced with all kinds of adult challenges that come with that. But, his viewpoints were…well, not real deep and it was very hard for me to develop a strong connection beyond the surface of the humor.
I think I wanted, at the very least, a more thoughtful take on the kinks Kamen and Ryan were exploring — the manties/lingerie and the pony-play. There was massive potential here that I felt was left untapped. The lacy, silky manties bit was quickly abandoned for bridles, reins, and tails.
I like reading BDSM stories, and I reeeeaaally like reading about all kinds of different kinks. Especially the ones less frequently written about in more mainstream BDSM Erotica. I find it all utterly fascinating from a psychological and emotional standpoint even more than the sexual aspects. I don’t expect BDSM fiction to be a how-to or in-depth psychoanalysis, but I want something that brings a sense of reality and artfully illustrates some of the how and why.
This did not come across as an exploration of pony-play and what draws people to that particular kink or what they get from it. Instead, it came across as a joke and a way to get revenge on a fellow kinkster (who did take it very seriously) by beating her at her own game. And, well, while it was a rollicking good time, for the most part, I can’t help but acknowledge that it also felt disrespectful and immature. Laughing in the faces of people who do take something seriously is not okay with me.
Kamen did get around to discovering and experiencing the headspace to some degree, and maybe he did get what it was all about, but there didn’t seem to be a whole lot of introspection about that.
So yeah, this is a light and hilarious read that brings back a lot of the comedy that was not in the last book due to the serious nature of Miles. I did enjoy it. I did laugh at plenty. But I was hoping for more.
Also posted on BackPorchReader.com.
The series has been a lot of outrageous fun, and I was super duper looking forward to this book. But it’s not my favorite of the series.
There is tons of humor here that makes this a light and funny read, just not quite the full scope of what I was hoping for.
Of this group of friends who formed The Subs Club, Kamen is the comedian, clown, and resident goofball. Being in his head was…kind of like what I’d think of being in the head of a golden retriever puppy.
Kamen is fun, and he’s a sweetheart, and he has a crack-tastic sense of humor. There was some personal growth as he contemplated his and his friends’ ongoing grief over the loss of their friend Hal and how they’re all grieving very differently. And he’s just moved in with his boyfriend of four months so was faced with all kinds of adult challenges that come with that. But, his viewpoints were…well, not real deep and it was very hard for me to develop a strong connection beyond the surface of the humor.
I think I wanted, at the very least, a more thoughtful take on the kinks Kamen and Ryan were exploring — the manties/lingerie and the pony-play. There was massive potential here that I felt was left untapped. The lacy, silky manties bit was quickly abandoned for bridles, reins, and tails.
I like reading BDSM stories, and I reeeeaaally like reading about all kinds of different kinks. Especially the ones less frequently written about in more mainstream BDSM Erotica. I find it all utterly fascinating from a psychological and emotional standpoint even more than the sexual aspects. I don’t expect BDSM fiction to be a how-to or in-depth psychoanalysis, but I want something that brings a sense of reality and artfully illustrates some of the how and why.
This did not come across as an exploration of pony-play and what draws people to that particular kink or what they get from it. Instead, it came across as a joke and a way to get revenge on a fellow kinkster (who did take it very seriously) by beating her at her own game. And, well, while it was a rollicking good time, for the most part, I can’t help but acknowledge that it also felt disrespectful and immature. Laughing in the faces of people who do take something seriously is not okay with me.
Kamen did get around to discovering and experiencing the headspace to some degree, and maybe he did get what it was all about, but there didn’t seem to be a whole lot of introspection about that.
So yeah, this is a light and hilarious read that brings back a lot of the comedy that was not in the last book due to the serious nature of Miles. I did enjoy it. I did laugh at plenty. But I was hoping for more.
Also posted on BackPorchReader.com.
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