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Submissive Seductions
Sometimes getting what you want…makes you crave something more Purchasing a Dom from a charity auction was the wildest thing Liz had ever done. The chance to bring her secret fantasy to life, to be a submissive—even just for one night—was worth any price. And Gareth was everything she wanted in a Master. He touched, he taught, he tantalized. He opened her world to pleasures she’d never imagined. But was it enough? After one night turned into a blurred-line relationship, Liz’s feelings for Gareth went beyond desire. Yet the kink, no matter how hot, had her wondering if she could ever have a normal relationship. Her Dom was a man with a tragic past and he’d put rules in place from the start. If Liz chose to break them would she lose the intense passion she’d just discovered—as well as the man she loved?... Praise for Chistine d’Abo’s 30 Days “Sexy, fun and deeply emotional. Bravo!”--J. Kenner, New York Times bestselling author
194 pages, Paperback
First published February 16, 2016
22 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Christine d'Abo
65 books586 followersA romance novelist and short story writer, Christine has over forty publications to her name. She loves to exercise and stops writing just long enough to keep her body in motion too. When she’s not pretending to be a ninja in her basement, she’s most likely spending time with her family and two dogs.
My thoughts on any of my Goodreads reviews are only my opinion as a reader. I don't post anything here that I'd give less than three stars to.
My thoughts on any of my Goodreads reviews are only my opinion as a reader. I don't post anything here that I'd give less than three stars to.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 5, 2015
ARC received for review
I'm struggling. It was good, but just a little blah. Nice little love story with a little kink thrown in. I think the idea put me off cause what Dom wants someone else to take control.
I'm struggling. It was good, but just a little blah. Nice little love story with a little kink thrown in. I think the idea put me off cause what Dom wants someone else to take control.
January 6, 2016
Interesting read for me this. For a start its my first foray into Erotic fiction (I don’t count several abortive attempts to read the whole 50 shades shenanigans ) so not a genre I have any prior concept of or anything decent to compare it to. I went for this one on a whim, in my quest to expand my reading experiences and it worked out really well as I did thoroughly enjoy it.
For a start and surprisingly to me, quite apart from the expected wall to wall explicit sex scenes it also had a very decent romance angle and a great little story. Very well written, I thought the dynamic between Liz and Gareth and the relationship they developed slowly outside of the sex which brought them together originally was great, it had me rooting for them as a couple and the characters have a good depth to them. He is conflicted and suffering from a tragic loss, she is unsure whether or not she can continue things in the way they started and it makes for an intriguing romance with a twist.
Another thing that impressed me was the fact that, unlike the portions of 50 Shades I managed to read, Christine D’abo managed to show that kind of BDSM sexual relationship as entirely mutually beneficial and utterly consensual – not in any way abusive or dark in that sense. Its two people coming together in privacy and indulging their passion – nowt wrong with that.
As to the explicit sex I can’t pretend that I didn’t enjoy reading those portions, I did. They were also well written – sexy sassy and hot **fans self** – I guess when all is said and done if this kind of thing disturbs you, you are unlikely to pick up a book with this title and blurb in the first place unless it is to have a chance to nod disapprovingly in which case you are reading for the wrong reasons to my mind.
Overall it was an enjoyable read for me. Would I read more like this? Probably although I don’t think it will ever become my favourite genre, it is one that I can see myself indulging in now and then. They would have to be somewhat like this though – exellent writing, an actual plot and something to engage me outside of the obvious.
Recommended if you like this genre or if you fancy just having a go. Never say never!
For a start and surprisingly to me, quite apart from the expected wall to wall explicit sex scenes it also had a very decent romance angle and a great little story. Very well written, I thought the dynamic between Liz and Gareth and the relationship they developed slowly outside of the sex which brought them together originally was great, it had me rooting for them as a couple and the characters have a good depth to them. He is conflicted and suffering from a tragic loss, she is unsure whether or not she can continue things in the way they started and it makes for an intriguing romance with a twist.
Another thing that impressed me was the fact that, unlike the portions of 50 Shades I managed to read, Christine D’abo managed to show that kind of BDSM sexual relationship as entirely mutually beneficial and utterly consensual – not in any way abusive or dark in that sense. Its two people coming together in privacy and indulging their passion – nowt wrong with that.
As to the explicit sex I can’t pretend that I didn’t enjoy reading those portions, I did. They were also well written – sexy sassy and hot **fans self** – I guess when all is said and done if this kind of thing disturbs you, you are unlikely to pick up a book with this title and blurb in the first place unless it is to have a chance to nod disapprovingly in which case you are reading for the wrong reasons to my mind.
Overall it was an enjoyable read for me. Would I read more like this? Probably although I don’t think it will ever become my favourite genre, it is one that I can see myself indulging in now and then. They would have to be somewhat like this though – exellent writing, an actual plot and something to engage me outside of the obvious.
Recommended if you like this genre or if you fancy just having a go. Never say never!
February 5, 2016
3 Stars – 3 Flames
I’ll be honest here. I’m not quite sure how I feel about this book. Don’t get me wrong. There are great scenes and a nice little storyline to match. But maybe, just maybe, this should have been written as a short instead?
This is broken up into 3 parts.
Part 1: Liz learns whether or not she’s a true submissive. She meets (actually buys) a Dom at an auction and is immediately entranced and obsessed with him. Only problem is that he doesn’t seem as interested in her. Or so we think.
Part 2: After being in a “relationship”, Liz wants more than Gareth is willing to give. She feels that it’s necessary to “train her Dom” in how to feel. Needless to say, the training didn’t go exactly how she planned, but it did it’s trick.
Part 3: This is the part of the book that I think was unnecessary. I totally “get” where the author was going with it, but I just felt like it dragged on and on and on. Like any newbie to the BDSM world, Liz starts questioning if the lifestyle is really what she wants. But will she lose Gareth if she doesn’t?
All in all, a decent read and one that I would still recommend if someone is looking for this genre.
*I was given a copy of this book as a gift from The JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review.
I’ll be honest here. I’m not quite sure how I feel about this book. Don’t get me wrong. There are great scenes and a nice little storyline to match. But maybe, just maybe, this should have been written as a short instead?
This is broken up into 3 parts.
Part 1: Liz learns whether or not she’s a true submissive. She meets (actually buys) a Dom at an auction and is immediately entranced and obsessed with him. Only problem is that he doesn’t seem as interested in her. Or so we think.
Part 2: After being in a “relationship”, Liz wants more than Gareth is willing to give. She feels that it’s necessary to “train her Dom” in how to feel. Needless to say, the training didn’t go exactly how she planned, but it did it’s trick.
Part 3: This is the part of the book that I think was unnecessary. I totally “get” where the author was going with it, but I just felt like it dragged on and on and on. Like any newbie to the BDSM world, Liz starts questioning if the lifestyle is really what she wants. But will she lose Gareth if she doesn’t?
All in all, a decent read and one that I would still recommend if someone is looking for this genre.
*I was given a copy of this book as a gift from The JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2016
Gifted storyteller Ms. D'Abo shows how curiosity does not kill the cat. In Submissive Seductions, Liz is taking a walk on the kinky side when she attends a charity auction with her best friend. What could be so kinky about an auction? When the goods are submissives and dominants. These auctions do happen in real life and Ms. D'Abo captures it pretty well. The auctions around me usually go for a few hundred dollars at most which is realistic for the general kinky population. When Liz spends more than a few hundred for a sexy dominant, she nearly passes out. Is it from excitement or from the money spent? Why not be both?
Gareth is a dominant just coming back into the lifestyle after a four year hiatus. His past is shrouded in a bit of pain and it reflects in his emotional detachment. This is the first book I can recall from Ms. D'Abo where characters have little chemistry for me. Whilst Liz goes through a hot then cold phase with Gareth, it always seems as if Gareth is removed. I get that the story is from Liz's perspective. And maybe that is what is difficult for me because at the end of the day, I do not like Liz. I completely understand her dilemma as she journeys along the kinky path. I just did not find her particularly likeable.
What is good about this book is the conflicts a person who first starts into kink experiences. Ms. D'Abo does a great job of showing sub frenzy as Liz wants to try more and more things with Gareth. Then when the realization hits that in America, kink is polarized into hawt fantasies or "abusive" realities, Liz becomes frightened and withdraws. Her experiences, fears of being outed and job fragility are all realities of identifying with the kinky lifestyle. Her responses are pretty natural and normal too. Her lack of maturity shows through as she tries to force Gareth to be "normal". And this is I believe the heart of my issue with Liz. It is neither right nor wrong, good or bad. My personal pet peeve and trigger is when someone tries to force another person to be what they do not want to be. Just as I am not into forcing vanilla into kink, I would not force a kink into vanilla. This rubbed me wrong so much I nearly threw my kindle across the room. Ms. D'Abo brings to life realistic scenarios which hits home a little too much for my comfort. Even though Liz changes her tune at the end of the story, my distrust of her has now taken hold and I do not like her. This is a well written BDSM tale showcasing a newbie's first experience in a dungeon. Recommended as a Gateway to BDSM book for romance readers who want a bit of spice to their romance.
*provided by NetGalley
Gareth is a dominant just coming back into the lifestyle after a four year hiatus. His past is shrouded in a bit of pain and it reflects in his emotional detachment. This is the first book I can recall from Ms. D'Abo where characters have little chemistry for me. Whilst Liz goes through a hot then cold phase with Gareth, it always seems as if Gareth is removed. I get that the story is from Liz's perspective. And maybe that is what is difficult for me because at the end of the day, I do not like Liz. I completely understand her dilemma as she journeys along the kinky path. I just did not find her particularly likeable.
What is good about this book is the conflicts a person who first starts into kink experiences. Ms. D'Abo does a great job of showing sub frenzy as Liz wants to try more and more things with Gareth. Then when the realization hits that in America, kink is polarized into hawt fantasies or "abusive" realities, Liz becomes frightened and withdraws. Her experiences, fears of being outed and job fragility are all realities of identifying with the kinky lifestyle. Her responses are pretty natural and normal too. Her lack of maturity shows through as she tries to force Gareth to be "normal". And this is I believe the heart of my issue with Liz. It is neither right nor wrong, good or bad. My personal pet peeve and trigger is when someone tries to force another person to be what they do not want to be. Just as I am not into forcing vanilla into kink, I would not force a kink into vanilla. This rubbed me wrong so much I nearly threw my kindle across the room. Ms. D'Abo brings to life realistic scenarios which hits home a little too much for my comfort. Even though Liz changes her tune at the end of the story, my distrust of her has now taken hold and I do not like her. This is a well written BDSM tale showcasing a newbie's first experience in a dungeon. Recommended as a Gateway to BDSM book for romance readers who want a bit of spice to their romance.
*provided by NetGalley
December 17, 2015
I am a tad torn with this book. I really really liked it at first, but the I just stopped caring and I could not figure out why. It was interesting the journey she was taking to find herself. Then there was a time jump and I felt disconnected. It seemed like we never really get into Gearth's character he has no real warmth or feelings. He is like just there. He says he is messed up but he shows no real emotion just matter of fact like. Then a time jump again and all of a sudden she doubts everything she has ever wanted just by hearing someone else talk about how people who are into kink have something wrong with them. She spent the first part of the book saying how he lovingly treated her and wanted to protect her, but she believes these women.
This book had a great premise, but just didn't live up to what it could have been.
Received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
This book had a great premise, but just didn't live up to what it could have been.
Received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
December 8, 2015
For me it seems that it was just ugh...just okay. I enjoyed the auction and after events. Liz seems timid and her bff helps her out a lot! There are parts where she was so indecisive and let the things happening in her life take over in her life and her perception of herself and Gareth. I did skip a lot when she was whiney. That for me was a big factor of my star review. Gareth seemed nice and I really wanted his POV. Maybe I would have given a different review of having his character's input.
I received this ARC from the publisher via Net Galley for my honest review.
I received this ARC from the publisher via Net Galley for my honest review.
July 5, 2016
A very enjoyable read that pulled me in from the first page to the last page.
May 27, 2023
I really liked how this couple came together, worked for what they wanted, and figured out how to make things work for them. The story didn’t shy away from when real life collides with your private life, and that added an element to their relationship that made it all the more strong
February 27, 2016
Liz is a young, professional woman who believes she *might* be into kink. Her bestie/apartment mate is a confirmed sub engaged to a Dom. Connie has invited Liz to her regular BDSM club for a charity Dom/sub auction. Connie's hand-picked a Dom for Liz to bid for, and Liz is stunned to learn that the beautiful man she admired backstage, Gareth, is the same man Connie was hoping she'd win.
Liz does win Gareth, a slightly older man who happens to be a widower, and is having his first foray into the scene since his wife/sub died tragically four years ago. Liz and Gareth bond, and share a scene, but is this the end?
The book is written in three parts, the auction, the chase and the submission. It's all told from Liz's POV, which is fine. She's brash and funny and her internal thoughts made me laugh out loud. She wants to explore a real and true relationship, but must proceed slowly because Gareth is reluctant. He's still grieving. I really liked how Liz turned the tables on Gareth, how she was assertive in her desires. It's always refreshing when a sub is a bit bratty, and Liz is definitely that!
I think this book is strong because the relationship develops over the course of several months. It's thoughtful and considerate. Neither Gareth nor Liz are 100% confident 100% of the time, and that's refreshing. They acknowledge their shortcomings and their fears, which allows the reader to step inside this dynamic easily. I love how uncertain Liz is, regarding BDSM. I love that she questions her desires, wonders if they are real, wonders if they are appropriate. It felt very genuine. Her reliance on both Connie and Gareth as guides in these new experiences felt natural, as well.
Having read a fair amount of books in this genre, I have to say I liked this one. It's fun and flirty, and fair-minded. I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.
Liz does win Gareth, a slightly older man who happens to be a widower, and is having his first foray into the scene since his wife/sub died tragically four years ago. Liz and Gareth bond, and share a scene, but is this the end?
The book is written in three parts, the auction, the chase and the submission. It's all told from Liz's POV, which is fine. She's brash and funny and her internal thoughts made me laugh out loud. She wants to explore a real and true relationship, but must proceed slowly because Gareth is reluctant. He's still grieving. I really liked how Liz turned the tables on Gareth, how she was assertive in her desires. It's always refreshing when a sub is a bit bratty, and Liz is definitely that!
I think this book is strong because the relationship develops over the course of several months. It's thoughtful and considerate. Neither Gareth nor Liz are 100% confident 100% of the time, and that's refreshing. They acknowledge their shortcomings and their fears, which allows the reader to step inside this dynamic easily. I love how uncertain Liz is, regarding BDSM. I love that she questions her desires, wonders if they are real, wonders if they are appropriate. It felt very genuine. Her reliance on both Connie and Gareth as guides in these new experiences felt natural, as well.
Having read a fair amount of books in this genre, I have to say I liked this one. It's fun and flirty, and fair-minded. I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.
February 16, 2016
Sometimes getting what you want…makes you crave something more
Purchasing a Dom from a charity auction was the wildest thing Liz had ever done. The chance to bring her secret fantasy to life, to be a submissive—even just for one night—was worth any price. And Gareth was everything she wanted in a Master. He touched, he taught, he tantalized. He opened her world to pleasures she’d never imagined. But was it enough?
After one night turned into a blurred-line relationship, Liz’s feelings for Gareth went beyond desire. Yet the kink, no matter how hot, had her wondering if she could ever have a normal relationship. Her Dom was a man with a tragic past and he’d put rules in place from the start. If Liz chose to break them would she lose the intense passion she’d just discovered—as well as the man she loved?...
Review:
I love that there is always such an emotional back bone to this Author's stories. She is very good at creating characters and emotions that, I personally connect with and become invested in. I liked the that they start off doing the relationship kind of backwards and then them having to figure out how that turns into the feelings that are growing for each other and how to do the whole dating thing after doing only the BDSM. There are lots of stumbles along the way, but I liked their journey. The BDSM and the sexy stuff are well written, but it is the romance that grows between Liz and Gareth that made this story for me.
4Stars
*Received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
Purchasing a Dom from a charity auction was the wildest thing Liz had ever done. The chance to bring her secret fantasy to life, to be a submissive—even just for one night—was worth any price. And Gareth was everything she wanted in a Master. He touched, he taught, he tantalized. He opened her world to pleasures she’d never imagined. But was it enough?
After one night turned into a blurred-line relationship, Liz’s feelings for Gareth went beyond desire. Yet the kink, no matter how hot, had her wondering if she could ever have a normal relationship. Her Dom was a man with a tragic past and he’d put rules in place from the start. If Liz chose to break them would she lose the intense passion she’d just discovered—as well as the man she loved?...
Review:
I love that there is always such an emotional back bone to this Author's stories. She is very good at creating characters and emotions that, I personally connect with and become invested in. I liked the that they start off doing the relationship kind of backwards and then them having to figure out how that turns into the feelings that are growing for each other and how to do the whole dating thing after doing only the BDSM. There are lots of stumbles along the way, but I liked their journey. The BDSM and the sexy stuff are well written, but it is the romance that grows between Liz and Gareth that made this story for me.
4Stars
*Received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
March 3, 2016
Submissive Seductions by Christine d'Abo is a nice little love story of lust and trust issues between a Dom and his new submissive. While the pace and emotions are very well written. The story lacks in its characters and their development. The main character Liz is very well written but it is her lover interest and Dom, Gareth who is very much the cookie cutter character that is often infused into BDSM tales. This is really too bad when you can tell, with the background and history involved, he could have been a completely rounded character. The attention to Liz and her emotions and struggle to deal with her journey into the BDSM lifestyle takes over the book and the supporting cast, including Gareth never really seem like real people. That is too bad because this good read could have been so much more.
December 15, 2015
Holy smokes !
I absolutely love a good Dom book ! And this is one of them books read it in 8 1/2 hours.
Liz is a 26 year old who is curious about the bdsm lifestyle and her best Friend Connie invites her to a club that practices the lifestyle and thats when she meets master gareth. They start seeing each other and a big law case gets brought up in the city with a guy named Caldwell he's a shady bdsm but takes it extreme. And it spooks Liz really bad. Will she find her way back or does she believe the rumors saying people are crazy for getting into bdsm?!
Received as an ARC via netgalley!
I absolutely love a good Dom book ! And this is one of them books read it in 8 1/2 hours.
Liz is a 26 year old who is curious about the bdsm lifestyle and her best Friend Connie invites her to a club that practices the lifestyle and thats when she meets master gareth. They start seeing each other and a big law case gets brought up in the city with a guy named Caldwell he's a shady bdsm but takes it extreme. And it spooks Liz really bad. Will she find her way back or does she believe the rumors saying people are crazy for getting into bdsm?!
Received as an ARC via netgalley!
February 17, 2016
ARC copy through NetGalley
HMMM
Im not sure about Submissive Seductions!
I struggled with the book! Don't get me wrong I normally love a good BDSM book. This one just fell short of my expectations. I had issues with the main characters. I just couldn't feel the chemistry or spark. Plus it felt to rushed.
HMMM
Im not sure about Submissive Seductions!
I struggled with the book! Don't get me wrong I normally love a good BDSM book. This one just fell short of my expectations. I had issues with the main characters. I just couldn't feel the chemistry or spark. Plus it felt to rushed.
June 5, 2020
I enjoyed this book, it was bit different but still a okay read. I enjoyed the story line but it did feel a bit rushed in places. the characters worked really well together and the secondary characters helped to move the story along. I would recommend to others
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December 25, 2015
ARC received for review
I really liked Liz and Gareth's story. It was a different storyline and I enjoyed it. I liked Liz's best friend Connie and her man Stephen.
I really liked Liz and Gareth's story. It was a different storyline and I enjoyed it. I liked Liz's best friend Connie and her man Stephen.
March 15, 2016
The fabulous Christine d'Abo did it again. A great story with loads of sizzling hot sex. I need to find myself a charity Dom auction. What a great fantasy. Feed yours with this book!
February 9, 2018
Received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
So I guess this one had previously been released as a three-part serial? Either way, it was exactly what two stars means: 'OK'. The sex scenes were hot, but I'm not that interested in reading about a top who can be topped. That just doesn't compute in my mind. That said, I appreciate that d'Abo took us through all of Liz's emotions, but it came across as whiny. She wanted him for sex and then got annoyed that it wasn't more? I was confused.
Not a bad read, but not the best I've read either.
So I guess this one had previously been released as a three-part serial? Either way, it was exactly what two stars means: 'OK'. The sex scenes were hot, but I'm not that interested in reading about a top who can be topped. That just doesn't compute in my mind. That said, I appreciate that d'Abo took us through all of Liz's emotions, but it came across as whiny. She wanted him for sex and then got annoyed that it wasn't more? I was confused.
Not a bad read, but not the best I've read either.
August 16, 2019
I loved it but I love all your books especially your 30 days & 30 nights
January 9, 2016
Title: Submissive Seductions Kindle Edition
Author: Christine D'Abo
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Release Date: February 16, 2016
Genre(s): Romance, BDSM
Page Count: 194 pages
Heat Level: # 5 flames out of 5
Rating: # 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Sometimes getting what you want…makes you crave something more
Purchasing a Dom from a charity auction was the wildest thing Liz had ever done. The chance to bring her secret fantasy to life, to be a submissive—even just for one night—was worth any price. And Gareth was everything she wanted in a Master. He touched, he taught, he tantalized. He opened her world to pleasures she’d never imagined. But was it enough?
After one night turned into a blurred-line relationship, Liz’s feelings for Gareth went beyond desire. Yet the kink, no matter how hot, had her wondering if she could ever have a normal relationship. Her Dom was a man with a tragic past and he’d put rules in place from the start. If Liz chose to break them would she lose the intense passion she’d just discovered—as well as the man she loved?...
Review:
"I’ve been around enough naked women to know that the first time you all think the same thing. You’ve got too much around the middle. Your thighs are too big, ass too wide, cellulite. Why would a man want to see you with the light on?...But you forget most men find your bodies beautiful no matter the shape. Your curves and bumps, the things you see as imperfections mark you as unique. We want to learn every inch of you, memorize what makes you moan and sigh.”
Submissive Seductions had me from the first page. It is a sexual exploration of a woman’s desire to find out if she is a submissive like her roommate and best friend. She has dated, but the sex has been flat. When she has expressed her desires to her partners, they rejected them and her. So when her best friend, Connie, wants her to come to a charity auction at her BDSM club she agrees. The story reads at a fast pace focusing on the relationship between Liz and the Dom, Master Gareth. Master Gareth has a tragic past, and he is unwilling to form any bonds with Liz, but Liz is a strong woman that goes after what she wants.
This book is not only a BDSM romance, it is an introduction to the BDSM lifestyle. A life choice by consenting adults. It portrays real everyday people. Not the high powered billionaire CEO’s that were abused in childhood. Although those books are fun to read, this book takes a more realistic approach.
Find this book on Goodreads
ARC provided by the author, and Kensington Books via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
January 31, 2016
Received an ARC copy through NetGalley.
This was a pretty laid back BDSM novel. It wasn't too aggressive, but the pain and pleasure were mixed pretty smoothly. Christine d'Abo has created a really nice story to get those who aren't into the heavy BDSM novels into the the idea of reading them. The characters were pretty cool too.
Liz is a typical woman that's curious about the world of BDSM. She has always known that she wanted more in the bedroom, but wasn't sure if she was a submissive. Well a chance encounter allowed her to explore by attending a charity auction...buy a Dom for a night. I enjoyed Liz because she was a woman that knew she wanted more sexually and even if she liked kinky sex, she also wanted normal as well. She didn't want her two worlds to be separate, she wanted them to be one.
Gareth was married to an amazing woman and was introduced to BDSM through his wife. After losing her he cut himself off from women and the lifestyle. It wasn't until the charity auction that he saw that he could become the man he used to be. He just had his fears and guilt of thinking he wouldn't love his wife anymore. Gareth is a hot damn sexy man, but I hated how he felt guilty about loving another woman. I loved watching him understand that being alone is something his wife would have never wanted for him.
The romance was pretty damn cool. I loved that Liz and Gareth started off as Master and Sub -- the kink just bought the spark in their relationship. I liked when they both battled with the idea of normalcy in their relationship. Even though it took them forever to have sex, due to Gareth's own mental battles, they had such a cute bond. My favorite part Liz and Gareth were simply cute together.
Connie and Steven were great friends for both Liz and Gareth. They guided them to one another, helped them realize they both had things to work out and supported their relationship. I loved Connie and Steven.
I definitely plan to check out both 30 Days and 30 Nights from her as I read the excerpts at the end and fell in love with them.
This was a pretty laid back BDSM novel. It wasn't too aggressive, but the pain and pleasure were mixed pretty smoothly. Christine d'Abo has created a really nice story to get those who aren't into the heavy BDSM novels into the the idea of reading them. The characters were pretty cool too.
Liz is a typical woman that's curious about the world of BDSM. She has always known that she wanted more in the bedroom, but wasn't sure if she was a submissive. Well a chance encounter allowed her to explore by attending a charity auction...buy a Dom for a night. I enjoyed Liz because she was a woman that knew she wanted more sexually and even if she liked kinky sex, she also wanted normal as well. She didn't want her two worlds to be separate, she wanted them to be one.
Gareth was married to an amazing woman and was introduced to BDSM through his wife. After losing her he cut himself off from women and the lifestyle. It wasn't until the charity auction that he saw that he could become the man he used to be. He just had his fears and guilt of thinking he wouldn't love his wife anymore. Gareth is a hot damn sexy man, but I hated how he felt guilty about loving another woman. I loved watching him understand that being alone is something his wife would have never wanted for him.
The romance was pretty damn cool. I loved that Liz and Gareth started off as Master and Sub -- the kink just bought the spark in their relationship. I liked when they both battled with the idea of normalcy in their relationship. Even though it took them forever to have sex, due to Gareth's own mental battles, they had such a cute bond. My favorite part Liz and Gareth were simply cute together.
Connie and Steven were great friends for both Liz and Gareth. They guided them to one another, helped them realize they both had things to work out and supported their relationship. I loved Connie and Steven.
I definitely plan to check out both 30 Days and 30 Nights from her as I read the excerpts at the end and fell in love with them.
February 15, 2016
I received an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review and here it is.
This novel was an unexpected and pleasant surprise. Instead of what I expected to be another titillating yet run-of-the-mill, steamy, BDSM-sex only story, I found this story to have a bit more depth, the characters and their issues more fully explored and the relationship between Dom and sub more fully developed.
Liz, our sub, is cajoled into attending a "Buy a Dom for a Night" charity auction being held at a BDSM club, by her friend and roommate, Connie, who, along with her Dom boyfriend, Stephen, are club members. Liz is new to this scene, intrigued by it, and curious to learn whether or not the issues she's had in previous relationships might have been the result of her unacknowledged submissiveness and her previous partners' lack of dominance.
When Liz sets eyes on Master Gareth, she's more than intrigued, and after placing the winning bid for his services for the night, he introduces her to his world, yet doesn't have sex with her, even though she's perfectly willing. And so begins her education into the lifestyle and her wanting more than one night with Gareth.
This is the point at which I assumed this novel would follow the standard pattern. It doesn't. Instead, Ms. d"Abo explores Gareth's past history, the loss of his wife and sub, Rachel, 4 years earlier, and his inability to move forward emotionally. Liz also has issues, coming to terms with her own needs and her own sexuality. Complicating matters is her boss, who's arrested and indicted for raping and abusing women, and the inevitable office chatter about how sick and depraved the BDSM lifestyle and its participants are. Is she depraved? Is there something wrong with her for craving domination? What does her sexual preference say about her? Is she a freak? Is Gareth? Could they possible ever have a "normal" relationship?
These are only some of the questions that are posed within this steamy tale, and I'm not giving away the answers, but I will recommend it, especially to those of you who are also curious about the lifestyle and were intrigued, but unfortunately misinformed by reading 50 Shades of Gray.
This novel was an unexpected and pleasant surprise. Instead of what I expected to be another titillating yet run-of-the-mill, steamy, BDSM-sex only story, I found this story to have a bit more depth, the characters and their issues more fully explored and the relationship between Dom and sub more fully developed.
Liz, our sub, is cajoled into attending a "Buy a Dom for a Night" charity auction being held at a BDSM club, by her friend and roommate, Connie, who, along with her Dom boyfriend, Stephen, are club members. Liz is new to this scene, intrigued by it, and curious to learn whether or not the issues she's had in previous relationships might have been the result of her unacknowledged submissiveness and her previous partners' lack of dominance.
When Liz sets eyes on Master Gareth, she's more than intrigued, and after placing the winning bid for his services for the night, he introduces her to his world, yet doesn't have sex with her, even though she's perfectly willing. And so begins her education into the lifestyle and her wanting more than one night with Gareth.
This is the point at which I assumed this novel would follow the standard pattern. It doesn't. Instead, Ms. d"Abo explores Gareth's past history, the loss of his wife and sub, Rachel, 4 years earlier, and his inability to move forward emotionally. Liz also has issues, coming to terms with her own needs and her own sexuality. Complicating matters is her boss, who's arrested and indicted for raping and abusing women, and the inevitable office chatter about how sick and depraved the BDSM lifestyle and its participants are. Is she depraved? Is there something wrong with her for craving domination? What does her sexual preference say about her? Is she a freak? Is Gareth? Could they possible ever have a "normal" relationship?
These are only some of the questions that are posed within this steamy tale, and I'm not giving away the answers, but I will recommend it, especially to those of you who are also curious about the lifestyle and were intrigued, but unfortunately misinformed by reading 50 Shades of Gray.
February 27, 2016
2 1/2 - 3 stars
This was a complete middle of the road for me. It's basically a love story with light kink, but there just wasn't enough emotion or kink (one of the other) for it to be great for me. Gareth is a Dom - looks the part, acts the part and is as solid as they come - at least as far as outward appearances go. He's hurting after the loss of his wife several years age and is just coming back to the scene. Liz wants to explore and find out if she is truly a submissive. Liz buys Master Gareth for the night at a Dom auction for charity. They have instant chemistry, but their relationship progression was a little awkward. They play in the club that first night, he leaves and wishes her luck finding a nice Dom. She then surprises him at work and convinces him to go get a coffee. and their odd relationship begins. They scene several times together, but never back at the club. While he's a good guy and they're compatible, this rubbed me the wrong way. Their relationship progresses (mostly behind the scenes). The next thing you know, she's playing Domme to him for one night so he can experience experience it and during this night he somewhat comes to terms with some of his grief and guilt. However, he freaks out when she lets those 3 little words slip out, and they don't speak for weeks. He reappears out of nowhere, stakes his claim and professes his love. I thought that it would end there, but Liz starts having doubts if she should be participating in the lifestyle and wants a "normal" relationship. Gareth is pathetic in this role and they can't even make a decision as to where to have lunch. This part was painful to watch for me as he was trying to give up who he was for her insecurities. The sex is disastrous for both parties and then there's another separation before a mutual meeting at the club in order to resolve their relationship - if it moves forward or terminates. The story had a lot of promise, but it just missed the mark for me
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a complete middle of the road for me. It's basically a love story with light kink, but there just wasn't enough emotion or kink (one of the other) for it to be great for me. Gareth is a Dom - looks the part, acts the part and is as solid as they come - at least as far as outward appearances go. He's hurting after the loss of his wife several years age and is just coming back to the scene. Liz wants to explore and find out if she is truly a submissive. Liz buys Master Gareth for the night at a Dom auction for charity. They have instant chemistry, but their relationship progression was a little awkward. They play in the club that first night, he leaves and wishes her luck finding a nice Dom. She then surprises him at work and convinces him to go get a coffee. and their odd relationship begins. They scene several times together, but never back at the club. While he's a good guy and they're compatible, this rubbed me the wrong way. Their relationship progresses (mostly behind the scenes). The next thing you know, she's playing Domme to him for one night so he can experience experience it and during this night he somewhat comes to terms with some of his grief and guilt. However, he freaks out when she lets those 3 little words slip out, and they don't speak for weeks. He reappears out of nowhere, stakes his claim and professes his love. I thought that it would end there, but Liz starts having doubts if she should be participating in the lifestyle and wants a "normal" relationship. Gareth is pathetic in this role and they can't even make a decision as to where to have lunch. This part was painful to watch for me as he was trying to give up who he was for her insecurities. The sex is disastrous for both parties and then there's another separation before a mutual meeting at the club in order to resolve their relationship - if it moves forward or terminates. The story had a lot of promise, but it just missed the mark for me
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2016
I will start by saying I have read several books by Christine d'Abo and have become quite the fan of her work. In fact 30 days was a stand out read for me last year. I was very excited to read Submissive Seductions. It sounded like a perfect book for me and I did enjoy several parts, but I am left quite torn now that I am done reading. Liz has always been interested in leaning more about BDSM and submission. Her friends decide the perfect way to allow her to experience her fantasies is to get her a Dom during a Dom auction. Enter Gareth, the sexy Dom Liz wins who gives her a night out of he deepest fantasies. What happens when what was supposed to be just one night turns into more?Things I loved: Gareth - I really loved him. Also the majority of the sex scenes were hot and well written. The writing on a whole was spot on and I think d'Abo gave us a realistic and authentic look at what someone new to the BDSM world might feel if they were suddenly immersed in it and over their heads. What didn't work for me was Liz, especially towards the latter half of the book. Things were right or wrong from her perspective and she had great difficulty seeing the grey in situations which definitely frustrated me at times! The scene where she decided Gareth needed her to be all Dom and in control also disturbed me. I just didn't feel like it fit. Another part of my problem was I never fully bought into their relationship, but that may have had something to do with my issues with Liz. On the whole I enjoyed most of the story, I just had trouble liking Liz enough to get fully immersed in it so am rating it 3.5 stars which I am rounding up to 4. I would still re moment this for the great writing alone.
A copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 24, 2015
In Submissive Seductions, readers are introduced to two people exploring a BDSM relationship. For Liz its because of a question she has about herself, whether she really is submissive and for Gareth its going back to a world that he stepped out of when he lost his wife. Divided into three parts, the story starts interestingly enough with a charity auction. Specifically, a Dom for Sale. Liz's best friend Connie has convinced her that this would be the perfect way for her to explore her submissive side, with no deeper commitment than for one night. But that was before she laid eyes on Gareth who just happens to be also close friends with Connie and her fiance Stephen. Gareth had been away from exploring his dominant side since his wife died. He's been a Dom only for her and so it was hard to actually acknowledge that side of him again without the emotional connection he had with his wife. But one night turned into more, a friendship that soon turned into something deeper. But the question is the D/s relationship the only thing they have going for Liz and Gareth or can they actually build a relationship beyond that.
With her deft way of telling a story, Ms. D' Abo has once again beguiled me into these two characters world. Witty conversations, very funny internal dialogues on Liz's part anyway (since this is told with a first person POV) Liz's modern and quirky personality and Gareth's introverted and somewhat shy character is everything that makes this story work. It engages the reader as well as entertain them while these two go on their romantic journey. A romantic comedy BDSM style, Submissive Seductions will have you laughing, crying and cheering for both Liz and Gareth.
*ARC provided thru NetGalley by the publisher*
With her deft way of telling a story, Ms. D' Abo has once again beguiled me into these two characters world. Witty conversations, very funny internal dialogues on Liz's part anyway (since this is told with a first person POV) Liz's modern and quirky personality and Gareth's introverted and somewhat shy character is everything that makes this story work. It engages the reader as well as entertain them while these two go on their romantic journey. A romantic comedy BDSM style, Submissive Seductions will have you laughing, crying and cheering for both Liz and Gareth.
*ARC provided thru NetGalley by the publisher*
February 18, 2016
I enjoyed the story. It caught my interest from the very first chapter and I found both main characters to be interesting and likable. This book deals with relationships, specifically D/s vs 'normal' relationships. The female lead is Liz who thinks she's a submissive, and she's curious about and interested in exploring this side of her sexuality. Naturally she's also a little scared about it as well, who wouldn't be? Luckily for her, she has a friend who's into the lifestyle to give her a little push and help her find her way. The male lead is Gareth who is an experienced Dom and also a widower who lost his wife/sub four years earlier. For the most part he's been out of the lifestyle since his wife's death and is just starting to return to the BDSM scene. Liz purchases a Gareth at a 'Dom for the night' charity auction and so our story begins.
Liz finds that she likes the time she spends with Gareth, until a scandal breaks at her workplace and she starts having doubts. What is normal and is there something wrong with her for liking what she likes? Meanwhile, Gareth is struggling with getting over losing his wife and his feelings of guilt for moving on.
Over all, I liked the story and the sex was smokin' hot. But keep in mind as I stated earlier, the main theme of the book is the developing relationship between Liz and Gareth. There are no bad guys or good good guys, and no external plots taking place aside from their own internal conflicts and the relationship struggles between them. I'd rate this book at 3.5 stars, and would recommend it to those who enjoy their romance with a BDSM slant.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
February 10, 2016
This is the first book I have read by the author and wasn't disappointed. The author does a great job getting you focused & hooked into the story. You'll want to see how things end.
Liz needs to find out if she truly is a submissive like she believes she is. When her best friend/roommate takes her to purchase a Dom for charity, this is her chance to find out if she is a submissive. She doesn't expect to have a connection with Gareth from the start but she can't ignore the spark that is between them. When things heat up and she gets her Dom, she wants more but she's not sure if Gareth will give her more especially with his past.
Gareth never truly felt for any other after his first love. He can't stop being the Dom he is but he hasn't been in the scene for a long time. When he does the auction charity he didn't expect to find someone who he had a connection with. Liz is the perfect submissive for him and he will do what he can to bring it out in her. Only when Liz tells him he wants more, he is not sure he can give it to her.
Overall, a really great story. I loved how the characters come together and have a strong connection that doesn't break. This book is full of hot and steamy scenes and also see a love forming between the two. When you lay your heart on the line, the last thing you want is for it to get stomped on. The book is a really touching story.
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
Liz needs to find out if she truly is a submissive like she believes she is. When her best friend/roommate takes her to purchase a Dom for charity, this is her chance to find out if she is a submissive. She doesn't expect to have a connection with Gareth from the start but she can't ignore the spark that is between them. When things heat up and she gets her Dom, she wants more but she's not sure if Gareth will give her more especially with his past.
Gareth never truly felt for any other after his first love. He can't stop being the Dom he is but he hasn't been in the scene for a long time. When he does the auction charity he didn't expect to find someone who he had a connection with. Liz is the perfect submissive for him and he will do what he can to bring it out in her. Only when Liz tells him he wants more, he is not sure he can give it to her.
Overall, a really great story. I loved how the characters come together and have a strong connection that doesn't break. This book is full of hot and steamy scenes and also see a love forming between the two. When you lay your heart on the line, the last thing you want is for it to get stomped on. The book is a really touching story.
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
December 15, 2015
Woman gets taken by her friend to a sex auction, where she buys one night with a dom to see if she is indeed a submissive. What it turns out to be is a pretty costly and out-there blind date.
There’s good stuff right away; I’m enjoying the pre-game, the way he talks to her instead of simply commanding her to do his bidding: calming her down, explaining things, the psychology of sexual submissiveness.
About halfway, with the romance having been achieved, I thought it would be the end of it, but no, things aren’t hunky-dory just yet. Kudos to the author for making it one book instead of a sequel.
What made me enjoy this was the main character. I love woman with a sense of humor, and I’m thankful the author wrote this in first person so I could hear her thoughts.
This is technically a romance, and even though there’s some miscommunication problems they weren’t nearly as bad as you usually get in this genre. Even better, no exterior forces—other than the arrest of her boss—played a part. When she went into the Blue Room at the end I was dreading that she would find him with another woman in an innocent but compromising situation, leading to huge misunderstanding, but thankfully that wasn’t the case.
There’s good stuff right away; I’m enjoying the pre-game, the way he talks to her instead of simply commanding her to do his bidding: calming her down, explaining things, the psychology of sexual submissiveness.
About halfway, with the romance having been achieved, I thought it would be the end of it, but no, things aren’t hunky-dory just yet. Kudos to the author for making it one book instead of a sequel.
What made me enjoy this was the main character. I love woman with a sense of humor, and I’m thankful the author wrote this in first person so I could hear her thoughts.
This is technically a romance, and even though there’s some miscommunication problems they weren’t nearly as bad as you usually get in this genre. Even better, no exterior forces—other than the arrest of her boss—played a part. When she went into the Blue Room at the end I was dreading that she would find him with another woman in an innocent but compromising situation, leading to huge misunderstanding, but thankfully that wasn’t the case.
January 18, 2016
A Sexy, Well-Written Little Gem
Liz always had a rich fantasy life, but nothing could have prepared her for her first foray into a BDSM dungeon. On the urging of her best friend, she decides to accompany her to a Dom auction. Even though she's got butterflies in her stomach and sweaty palms, Liz finds herself in a bidding war for Master Gareth. However, once she has his undivided attention, she hopes she hasn't bitten off more than she can chew.
Just one look from the man makes her forget her own name. Realizing that her one night with Master Gareth may be her only chance to take a walk on the wild side, Liz takes a deep breath and leaves her inhibitions at the door. Master Gareth titillates her body, frees her mind and possesses her soul. What began as one night with a Dom turns into a relationship where kink is king, which has Liz wondering if there's life for them beyond the handcuffs and floggers.
I loved this book. The characters were engaging and likable. The story flowed effortlessly and kept me thoroughly entertained. It was a great to find a story that was sexy and also had substance. As a new reader of Christine d'Abo, I will definitely check out her other work.
(Reviewed for The Romance Reviews - ARC received from Publisher)
Liz always had a rich fantasy life, but nothing could have prepared her for her first foray into a BDSM dungeon. On the urging of her best friend, she decides to accompany her to a Dom auction. Even though she's got butterflies in her stomach and sweaty palms, Liz finds herself in a bidding war for Master Gareth. However, once she has his undivided attention, she hopes she hasn't bitten off more than she can chew.
Just one look from the man makes her forget her own name. Realizing that her one night with Master Gareth may be her only chance to take a walk on the wild side, Liz takes a deep breath and leaves her inhibitions at the door. Master Gareth titillates her body, frees her mind and possesses her soul. What began as one night with a Dom turns into a relationship where kink is king, which has Liz wondering if there's life for them beyond the handcuffs and floggers.
I loved this book. The characters were engaging and likable. The story flowed effortlessly and kept me thoroughly entertained. It was a great to find a story that was sexy and also had substance. As a new reader of Christine d'Abo, I will definitely check out her other work.
(Reviewed for The Romance Reviews - ARC received from Publisher)
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