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Darling Discovered: A True Story of Submission
After her seemingly perfect world came crashing down Chloe Donnovan was faced with a crisis of identity. In a bold attempt to start life over in a more authentic way, she confessed her darkest secret, a desire to submit to her husband Leo. The two set off on a year of information, exploration, and sexual experimentation that will either breathe new life into the relationship or lead to their final demise.
Darling Discovered: A True Story of Submission explores issues of trust, self-acceptance, and healing, set amongst the sandy beaches of Florida in an emotional and pleasurable read.
It is human nature to want to protect your truest self from the outside world. This is one woman's true story of deciding to share herself despite those fears.
Darling Discovered: A True Story of Submission explores issues of trust, self-acceptance, and healing, set amongst the sandy beaches of Florida in an emotional and pleasurable read.
It is human nature to want to protect your truest self from the outside world. This is one woman's true story of deciding to share herself despite those fears.
198 pages, ebook
Published June 1, 2016
49 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
About the author
Mrs. Darling
1 book10 followersMrs. Darling is an acclaimed writer known for her captivating exploration of passion, power dynamics, and BDSM relationships in both fiction and non-fiction. Drawing from her own experiences in the world of submission, she skillfully weaves seductive narratives that delve into the depths of human desire and authenticity.
Her debut novel, Darling Discovered: A True Story of Submission, chronicles a couple's journey of rediscovery as they embrace a life of Dominance and submission. Winner of the "Best Manuscript" award at the 2015 BDSM Writer’s Con, this compelling memoir blends erotica with raw emotion and earned further acclaim as the prestigious "Best Non-Fiction Book" at the same event in 2016.
When not crafting tantalizing tales, Mrs. Darling embraces a full-time submissive role in a classical 1950s-style household, where she finds joy in baking, crafting, and exploring the world with her family. Follow Mrs. Darling online for updates on her upcoming projects and literary endeavors, and delve into her immersive world of passion and authenticity.
Her debut novel, Darling Discovered: A True Story of Submission, chronicles a couple's journey of rediscovery as they embrace a life of Dominance and submission. Winner of the "Best Manuscript" award at the 2015 BDSM Writer’s Con, this compelling memoir blends erotica with raw emotion and earned further acclaim as the prestigious "Best Non-Fiction Book" at the same event in 2016.
When not crafting tantalizing tales, Mrs. Darling embraces a full-time submissive role in a classical 1950s-style household, where she finds joy in baking, crafting, and exploring the world with her family. Follow Mrs. Darling online for updates on her upcoming projects and literary endeavors, and delve into her immersive world of passion and authenticity.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
November 18, 2017
The following review is based off my own opinions, thoughts and reactions. So in other words brace yourself. *There may be inappropriate words such as curse words.* You have been advised in advance.*
Can I just say this book gets kinky as fuck? Is that the word I'm looking for even? I went from being really pissed off and annoyed at the beginning of this book to being like "damn, this shit is kinky!"
I don't even know how to convey my feelings into a decent review. Fifty Shades of Grey has nothing on this book, SERIOUSLY! When I finally finished this book, my mouth was there hanging wide open. And just as a little side note, reading this book at work before your shift starts is not the brightest idea in the world.
But seriously, the character development was impressive. I can't really say I fell in love with any of the characters or really felt drawn to either of the main characters, but the way they developed and then became intertwined with one another really pleased my soul.
Close to the ending, though, not sure I was a fan of how that all played out. Reading from start to finished I went from angry and annoyed to shocked and pleased to angry and irritated. I can't quite put my finger on it, but the end just didn't really go the way I expected it to or even play out the way I had thought it would. Something about it just really irked me and I can't put my finger on it.
My favorite parts, however, were the kinky parts. Partially because I'm a little pervert, but then again, who isn't a pervert on some level? But real talk, the naughty parts were literally like my favorite parts and the way it all develops and mingles with the main characters was really juicy. I'm not going to reveal any deals, but that Las Vegas moments...damn...super sexy and mind shattering!
All in all, I rate this book a 4 out of 5 stars - possibly a 4.5 out of 5 stars just for the fact that the really sexy parts make up for all the times I got irritated or annoyed and angry. Definitely a book worth reading if your mind is secretly dirty.
Can I just say this book gets kinky as fuck? Is that the word I'm looking for even? I went from being really pissed off and annoyed at the beginning of this book to being like "damn, this shit is kinky!"
I don't even know how to convey my feelings into a decent review. Fifty Shades of Grey has nothing on this book, SERIOUSLY! When I finally finished this book, my mouth was there hanging wide open. And just as a little side note, reading this book at work before your shift starts is not the brightest idea in the world.
But seriously, the character development was impressive. I can't really say I fell in love with any of the characters or really felt drawn to either of the main characters, but the way they developed and then became intertwined with one another really pleased my soul.
Close to the ending, though, not sure I was a fan of how that all played out. Reading from start to finished I went from angry and annoyed to shocked and pleased to angry and irritated. I can't quite put my finger on it, but the end just didn't really go the way I expected it to or even play out the way I had thought it would. Something about it just really irked me and I can't put my finger on it.
My favorite parts, however, were the kinky parts. Partially because I'm a little pervert, but then again, who isn't a pervert on some level? But real talk, the naughty parts were literally like my favorite parts and the way it all develops and mingles with the main characters was really juicy. I'm not going to reveal any deals, but that Las Vegas moments...damn...super sexy and mind shattering!
All in all, I rate this book a 4 out of 5 stars - possibly a 4.5 out of 5 stars just for the fact that the really sexy parts make up for all the times I got irritated or annoyed and angry. Definitely a book worth reading if your mind is secretly dirty.
March 23, 2016
I was blown away by the honest vulnerability in this true story. THIS is the REAL Fifty Shades!
June 7, 2016
This is a toughie for me to review; I preordered the book as soon as I found out the author had published something. She’s an awesome, strong woman who I envy, but also look up to.
First off, I just want to establish the fact that I have never read BDSM books that portrayed real life. Sure, I’ve read the horrible 50 Shades; Cherise Sinclair (BDSM author) knows how to make my bones melt with her Masters of the Shadowlands Series. With that said, I subconsciously was expecting a book with a fast pace, a lot of action with drama, and steamy as fuck scenes. Perhaps I’m just so used to fictional books that I felt a little let down reading this.
Characters: Chloe and Leo are our main couple. Chloe has a big personality and isn’t afraid to say how she feels. If she’s pissed, you’ll know it. When she laughs, the whole room will hear. She is bright and someone people just gravitate to. This book opens up with her heart being broken. Does she crumble and become a shell of her old self? No! She expresses her feelings and the reader can definitely feel it from her words. I loved watching her grow as a person and how she finally opens up about her darkest desire.
As for Leo, I wasn’t expecting a man who showed his true feelings. I’m used to Dominants who keep those feelings inside. They don’t cry, they just tough it out and stay in the role of “I’m a man. I’m always strong.” ect, ect. It was refreshing to see Leo stumble along with Chloe and admit that being the Dominant and in control all the time can be exhausting. Not only is he looking after himself, but his wife AND their daughter. He was just as new to the whole BDSM scene just like her. He didn’t have all the answers, which is okay.
My only complaint about the characters was that I wish they could have interacted with other people more often. Sure, they talk to another Master and his slave, but those characters were just flat to me. Chloe’s mother didn’t even feel real to me. They all just seemed like stepping stones, or plot devices to just move things along. I’d have loved to have had more details about their first munch and about the people they met. Instead, we just get a quick summary. Also, the inner monologue became repetitive at times.
Plot: At times the plot did stall and became monotonous. I understand the plot is watching this couple try to make their marriage work in a new way. They have a year to see if things will get better, or if they should just part ways. There was a lot of sex, but not the steamy type of sex scene in erotic novels, which I’m used to. However, they were still realistic and fresh, and sweet.
Overall story: I’m glad I bought this book. It was worth it and put a smile on my face. So many women who are new to the BDSM life expect things to be just like BDSM fiction: for men to read our minds, for them to know exactly what to do, and how to use our bodies how we SPECIFICALLY want it to be used. I sure did and got a big wake up call. Books like “Darling Discovered” should be in more abundance.
I loved it and highly recommend this beauty to anyone into the kink life or not.
First off, I just want to establish the fact that I have never read BDSM books that portrayed real life. Sure, I’ve read the horrible 50 Shades; Cherise Sinclair (BDSM author) knows how to make my bones melt with her Masters of the Shadowlands Series. With that said, I subconsciously was expecting a book with a fast pace, a lot of action with drama, and steamy as fuck scenes. Perhaps I’m just so used to fictional books that I felt a little let down reading this.
Characters: Chloe and Leo are our main couple. Chloe has a big personality and isn’t afraid to say how she feels. If she’s pissed, you’ll know it. When she laughs, the whole room will hear. She is bright and someone people just gravitate to. This book opens up with her heart being broken. Does she crumble and become a shell of her old self? No! She expresses her feelings and the reader can definitely feel it from her words. I loved watching her grow as a person and how she finally opens up about her darkest desire.
As for Leo, I wasn’t expecting a man who showed his true feelings. I’m used to Dominants who keep those feelings inside. They don’t cry, they just tough it out and stay in the role of “I’m a man. I’m always strong.” ect, ect. It was refreshing to see Leo stumble along with Chloe and admit that being the Dominant and in control all the time can be exhausting. Not only is he looking after himself, but his wife AND their daughter. He was just as new to the whole BDSM scene just like her. He didn’t have all the answers, which is okay.
My only complaint about the characters was that I wish they could have interacted with other people more often. Sure, they talk to another Master and his slave, but those characters were just flat to me. Chloe’s mother didn’t even feel real to me. They all just seemed like stepping stones, or plot devices to just move things along. I’d have loved to have had more details about their first munch and about the people they met. Instead, we just get a quick summary. Also, the inner monologue became repetitive at times.
Plot: At times the plot did stall and became monotonous. I understand the plot is watching this couple try to make their marriage work in a new way. They have a year to see if things will get better, or if they should just part ways. There was a lot of sex, but not the steamy type of sex scene in erotic novels, which I’m used to. However, they were still realistic and fresh, and sweet.
Overall story: I’m glad I bought this book. It was worth it and put a smile on my face. So many women who are new to the BDSM life expect things to be just like BDSM fiction: for men to read our minds, for them to know exactly what to do, and how to use our bodies how we SPECIFICALLY want it to be used. I sure did and got a big wake up call. Books like “Darling Discovered” should be in more abundance.
I loved it and highly recommend this beauty to anyone into the kink life or not.
March 24, 2016
I consider myself extremely lucky to have been able to read an advanced copy of this award winning book.
From the moment I began reading I was completely riveted, and unable to put it down. I read the entire thing in a single day. The writing moved along quickly and the author managed to evoke the entire gambit of emotions including joy, lust, and heartbreak. I found myself laughing and crying right along with the main character.
I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone. Not only is a book about one couple's journey into BDSM but it is a beautifully poignant love story about two people finding their way back to each other after betrayal.
From the moment I began reading I was completely riveted, and unable to put it down. I read the entire thing in a single day. The writing moved along quickly and the author managed to evoke the entire gambit of emotions including joy, lust, and heartbreak. I found myself laughing and crying right along with the main character.
I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone. Not only is a book about one couple's journey into BDSM but it is a beautifully poignant love story about two people finding their way back to each other after betrayal.
August 3, 2016
**I was given a copy this by the author for an honest review.**
I was surprised by how much heart this had. It's not just a story about ones discovery of BDSM and that world, but it's also about a woman struggling with her husband’s infidelity and all the changes a woman goes through after having a baby. She struggles with learning to accept her new body and forgiving someone who has betrayed her so deeply. I love how she doesn't make excuses for choosing to give him a chance to right his wrongs. I think that's very important because too often we feel the need to make other people understand why we chose what we did, when really it’s none of their business.
The story flows wonderfully, and it's a very easy reading experience. You feel all the things that Chloe feels along with her. It’s not all about sex, which is great. My knowledge is very limited to what BDSM is and it’s not my thing, but I can understand better what makes people interested in this because of this story. If any of these things interest you, I would definitely give this one a read, it's thought provoking and deeper than you would think.
I was surprised by how much heart this had. It's not just a story about ones discovery of BDSM and that world, but it's also about a woman struggling with her husband’s infidelity and all the changes a woman goes through after having a baby. She struggles with learning to accept her new body and forgiving someone who has betrayed her so deeply. I love how she doesn't make excuses for choosing to give him a chance to right his wrongs. I think that's very important because too often we feel the need to make other people understand why we chose what we did, when really it’s none of their business.
The story flows wonderfully, and it's a very easy reading experience. You feel all the things that Chloe feels along with her. It’s not all about sex, which is great. My knowledge is very limited to what BDSM is and it’s not my thing, but I can understand better what makes people interested in this because of this story. If any of these things interest you, I would definitely give this one a read, it's thought provoking and deeper than you would think.
March 4, 2017
What a beautifully written story. This story is about Mrs. Darling finding her true self amongst adversity. Mrs. Darling told her story as if I was sitting right next to her as she recounted the joy, trouble, doubt and pure pleasure she discovered after the horrible betrayal by her Mister.
She did not just walk away, she fought for herself and her little one. She laid her soul out for everyone to see her truth.
I have read a few "true story" BDSM stories and this one had me hooked from the beginning. Her journey was a hard fought one. Go out and get your copy. I have found few books that resonate with me as much as this one. It's up there with Tymber Dalton's Roll of the Dice and The Denim Dom.
She did not just walk away, she fought for herself and her little one. She laid her soul out for everyone to see her truth.
I have read a few "true story" BDSM stories and this one had me hooked from the beginning. Her journey was a hard fought one. Go out and get your copy. I have found few books that resonate with me as much as this one. It's up there with Tymber Dalton's Roll of the Dice and The Denim Dom.
August 24, 2017
Informative and well written with an HEA and healing.
Loved this book right from page one.
I enjoyed the journey this couple went through and it gave me a new respect for people who save a marriage after a deal breaker.
It's well written and the blurb is right on the money as to the story line.
Loved hearing this ladies POV regarding stereotypes that women are subjected to. Especially by other women.
If the blurb intrigues you, then I would definitely recommend this book. Even if you don't agree with the lifestyle, you can gain some empathy and understanding for those who do and grow as person.
We are not all created the same and "normal" depends on individual perspective.
Loved this book right from page one.
I enjoyed the journey this couple went through and it gave me a new respect for people who save a marriage after a deal breaker.
It's well written and the blurb is right on the money as to the story line.
Loved hearing this ladies POV regarding stereotypes that women are subjected to. Especially by other women.
If the blurb intrigues you, then I would definitely recommend this book. Even if you don't agree with the lifestyle, you can gain some empathy and understanding for those who do and grow as person.
We are not all created the same and "normal" depends on individual perspective.
December 30, 2021
Unapologetic Honesty
Darling recreates the world she's lived in through raw feeling and emotion that is unparalleled. Anyone who has felt any of the doubt, confusion, mistrust.. Anyone who has felt unsure or lost in this world of relationships- not just BDSM, but relationships in general- will feel such a strong connection to her experience.
Her writing brings to light some of the deepest fears and misgivings felt by those entering a BDSM lifestyle, and gives them guidance and advice through personal experience.
The story is emotional, but darling's journey is transcendent, and a true inspiration.
Darling recreates the world she's lived in through raw feeling and emotion that is unparalleled. Anyone who has felt any of the doubt, confusion, mistrust.. Anyone who has felt unsure or lost in this world of relationships- not just BDSM, but relationships in general- will feel such a strong connection to her experience.
Her writing brings to light some of the deepest fears and misgivings felt by those entering a BDSM lifestyle, and gives them guidance and advice through personal experience.
The story is emotional, but darling's journey is transcendent, and a true inspiration.
December 7, 2024
A Memorable Memoir
This is a beautiful and heartfelt story of Mrs Darling’s submissive journey. Her story is one of finding herself and true love and devotion in the arms and heart of her loving dominant husband, Leo. This couples story rings true and examines the trials, tribulations, and day to day joys and struggles of living a D/s marriage in the midst of a vanilla world. It is 2024, and I recently had the pleasure of seeing this author speak and the authenticity of her journey is something many including myself continue to strive for.
This is a beautiful and heartfelt story of Mrs Darling’s submissive journey. Her story is one of finding herself and true love and devotion in the arms and heart of her loving dominant husband, Leo. This couples story rings true and examines the trials, tribulations, and day to day joys and struggles of living a D/s marriage in the midst of a vanilla world. It is 2024, and I recently had the pleasure of seeing this author speak and the authenticity of her journey is something many including myself continue to strive for.
March 12, 2025
Set in Atlanta and Florida. 195 pp. Interesting reading on the BDSM lifestyle and how this couple made it work for them. Lots of good information about the need for communication, particularly within in TPE relationship.
Darling Discovered: A True Story of Submission by Mrs. Darling
Darling Discovered: A True Story of Submission by Mrs. Darling
August 14, 2021
A beautiful memior
An achingly real portrayal of a married couple finding their way. This is also a great introduction to BDSM for those just getting into the lifestyle. I wish there was a follow-up. I'd love to see more of their journey as they explored the kink community.
An achingly real portrayal of a married couple finding their way. This is also a great introduction to BDSM for those just getting into the lifestyle. I wish there was a follow-up. I'd love to see more of their journey as they explored the kink community.
August 12, 2019
This was a quick and easy read. 3 stars for the most accurate portrayal of a BDSM relationship I have read.
September 5, 2016
A Stunning Debut!
“Darling Discovered” is truly one of the best books I have ever read in this genre. I cried, I laughed, I pondered insights, and I was deeply moved by the writer’s poetic point of view. I will cherish this book always, and recommend it to anyone who wants to better understand the REAL Lifestyle of D/s (Dominance and submission), M/s (Master and slave), and BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Sadism, Masochism).
Although 50 Shades of Grey helped bring this Lifestyle into the mainstream, it still contained some very damaging and inaccurate misrepresentations. “Darling Discovered” is finally an accurate depiction of one of the most beautiful, passionate and deep lifestyles there is to live - a Lifestyle that is based on a level of intimacy and trust that “vanilla” relationships seldom attain.
Based on a true story, “Darling Discovered” depicts characters that are real and human, thus making the book that much more compelling. The romance here, is the REAL kind. The kind that can happen between a true Husband and Wife. A stunning debut from a wonderful new author!
“Darling Discovered” is truly one of the best books I have ever read in this genre. I cried, I laughed, I pondered insights, and I was deeply moved by the writer’s poetic point of view. I will cherish this book always, and recommend it to anyone who wants to better understand the REAL Lifestyle of D/s (Dominance and submission), M/s (Master and slave), and BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Sadism, Masochism).
Although 50 Shades of Grey helped bring this Lifestyle into the mainstream, it still contained some very damaging and inaccurate misrepresentations. “Darling Discovered” is finally an accurate depiction of one of the most beautiful, passionate and deep lifestyles there is to live - a Lifestyle that is based on a level of intimacy and trust that “vanilla” relationships seldom attain.
Based on a true story, “Darling Discovered” depicts characters that are real and human, thus making the book that much more compelling. The romance here, is the REAL kind. The kind that can happen between a true Husband and Wife. A stunning debut from a wonderful new author!
December 18, 2016
I. LOVE. THIS. BOOK! I am totally going to be recommending people who are interested in the lifestyle to read this book. There needs to be more books like this out there, more first hand accounts of what it is like for couples who are starting out new together in the lifestyle. I read this book in just one setting. I would be reading and next thing I know, I'm two chapters further than I last remember. That's how deep I was in this book. This is just a fantastic novel and I do hope that Mrs. Darling will write more.
June 6, 2016
It's about time someone wrote something entertaining to read, real, educational, and even well written about this lifestyle!! This is what 50 shades was missing! Truth and reality form someone who actually knows. It covers the whole range of emotions and is extremely sexy! This is a must read whether you are into the lifestyle or not! Oh yeah, SEXY AS HELL!!!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews