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True #3
True Choices
A DARK ROMANCE
True Choices is the third book in a series that includes two alternative endings. See for yourself why fans are saying this makes all the other dark romances look like greyed out shades of fairytales.
WIN OR LOSE
Max leads; Lucy follows. How far he’s willing to push her may test both their limits though. With his prize in sight, Max can’t afford to relinquish control now.
DO OR DON’T
Lucy embraces all that Max offers, giving exactly what is demanded of her. How far she’s willing to go in order to please him may have her facing the ultimate True Choices.
NOTE: All the books in this series are available for purchase/download now, so you won’t be left wanting or waiting. This series involves a combination of Domestic Discipline, D/s, and Sm
Excerpts:
"Lucy, I understand that you're trying. I know you want to be respectful and you're figuring out your limits. And I want to help you." His hand moves my chin gently back to look at him, but his voice is edgier. "Look at me when I'm talking to you."
He drops his hand and I keep my eyes on him while he continues. "You may ask me to reconsider a decision, but giving me your reasons for wanting me to is tantamount with arguing. Try again."
…..
What if I couldn't give him something that he demanded? What if he couldn't control everything about me? What would happen to us if I couldn't bend to his will no matter how hard I would try?
I shudder and put my arms around my middle, hugging myself. I'm not ready to face a possible darkened future. A day that I couldn't give in to Max's needs.
I shake my head a final time, close my eyes and breathe in normally. I let go of my waist and square my shoulders. But I keep my head down. I'll do whatever it takes to make Max happy. Whatever is in my power to do.
True Choices is the third book in a series that includes two alternative endings. See for yourself why fans are saying this makes all the other dark romances look like greyed out shades of fairytales.
WIN OR LOSE
Max leads; Lucy follows. How far he’s willing to push her may test both their limits though. With his prize in sight, Max can’t afford to relinquish control now.
DO OR DON’T
Lucy embraces all that Max offers, giving exactly what is demanded of her. How far she’s willing to go in order to please him may have her facing the ultimate True Choices.
NOTE: All the books in this series are available for purchase/download now, so you won’t be left wanting or waiting. This series involves a combination of Domestic Discipline, D/s, and Sm
Excerpts:
"Lucy, I understand that you're trying. I know you want to be respectful and you're figuring out your limits. And I want to help you." His hand moves my chin gently back to look at him, but his voice is edgier. "Look at me when I'm talking to you."
He drops his hand and I keep my eyes on him while he continues. "You may ask me to reconsider a decision, but giving me your reasons for wanting me to is tantamount with arguing. Try again."
…..
What if I couldn't give him something that he demanded? What if he couldn't control everything about me? What would happen to us if I couldn't bend to his will no matter how hard I would try?
I shudder and put my arms around my middle, hugging myself. I'm not ready to face a possible darkened future. A day that I couldn't give in to Max's needs.
I shake my head a final time, close my eyes and breathe in normally. I let go of my waist and square my shoulders. But I keep my head down. I'll do whatever it takes to make Max happy. Whatever is in my power to do.
206 pages, Paperback
First published December 16, 2014
28 people are currently reading
234 people want to read
About the author
Willow Madison
10 books271 followersFor new release info, sign up for her (never spammy) newsletters:
http://willowmadisonbooks.com
Willow Madison enjoys writing in a variety of genres including dark psychological suspense, contemporary romance, and dark romance. All her books have one thing in common: an unflinching, unapologetic, uncompromising exploration into what dark corners our desires can take us.
Find yourself in Willow Madison Books
More About Willow . . .
Willow came into this world hand first, clutching a No 2 pencil between her chubby baby fingers. Coming up with ways to twist the lives of her Barbies and Kens was a favorite pastime from her towheaded youth.
In the wilds of the Windy City, her imagination really took off, resulting in all sorts of dramas, big and small.
Speaking of size, she prefers her male characters to be larger than life, unapologetically Alphaholish, and as close to so wrong he’s right as she can write.
Willow embodies a wanderlust, having explored five continents and called seven states home so far, with a hope to never lose her tumbling tumbleweed status unless it’s for the chance to live out her ultimate fantasy.
She’s had many loves, some four-legged and viciously fanged, others high in calories and covered in chocolate. Tacos are hard for her to resist, and she’s a firm believer that chili sauce makes most anything better.
A perfect day ends with stretching and a new book.
Some of this is fictitious. But you can’t fault her—Willow is a writer.
Connect with Willow . . .
https://www.facebook.com/willowmadiso...
http://willowmadisonbooks.com
Willow Madison enjoys writing in a variety of genres including dark psychological suspense, contemporary romance, and dark romance. All her books have one thing in common: an unflinching, unapologetic, uncompromising exploration into what dark corners our desires can take us.
Find yourself in Willow Madison Books
More About Willow . . .
Willow came into this world hand first, clutching a No 2 pencil between her chubby baby fingers. Coming up with ways to twist the lives of her Barbies and Kens was a favorite pastime from her towheaded youth.
In the wilds of the Windy City, her imagination really took off, resulting in all sorts of dramas, big and small.
Speaking of size, she prefers her male characters to be larger than life, unapologetically Alphaholish, and as close to so wrong he’s right as she can write.
Willow embodies a wanderlust, having explored five continents and called seven states home so far, with a hope to never lose her tumbling tumbleweed status unless it’s for the chance to live out her ultimate fantasy.
She’s had many loves, some four-legged and viciously fanged, others high in calories and covered in chocolate. Tacos are hard for her to resist, and she’s a firm believer that chili sauce makes most anything better.
A perfect day ends with stretching and a new book.
Some of this is fictitious. But you can’t fault her—Willow is a writer.
Connect with Willow . . .
https://www.facebook.com/willowmadiso...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
September 12, 2020
Dark, uncomfortable and frightening but still addictive.
Another difficult and uncomfortable read.
Generally when I'm reading a book a proposal is a cause for celebration. Usually coming at the end of the book. If we're lucky we get the wedding. And if we're really lucky we get to share some of the loving couples happy ending with them.
When the proposal came at the end of the previous book. I really wanted Lucy to say no. To just open her eyes and see what we see. But of course she didn't. So in this book she becomes Mrs Max Traeger.
I keep wondering when she'll snap. Because a person can only take so much. But she continues to take whatever Max gives her. Anything to keep him happy.
This is a frightening book. It truly is. And we've been there every step of the way. We’ve seen the change.
One line early on really stood out:
I realise that I haven't even spoken out loud to myself even though Max isn't here to hear me. And that's why I'm okay with it...because it's me deciding to be?
No it's not.
Run and run as fast as you can. It’s not love. And yet again it's like watching a horror film through your fingers. Or over the top of a cushion. You can't stop. I'm committed to this series. I'm going to read both the next books. Because while there's an alternative ending. I need to read them both. Darker one first. So hopefully when I've finally finished with this series. I'm hoping there's a relatively happy ending. Although I've given up all hopes of a HEA in the traditional sense.
The end of this book....huge cliffhanger and I do mean huge.
Another difficult and uncomfortable read.
Generally when I'm reading a book a proposal is a cause for celebration. Usually coming at the end of the book. If we're lucky we get the wedding. And if we're really lucky we get to share some of the loving couples happy ending with them.
When the proposal came at the end of the previous book. I really wanted Lucy to say no. To just open her eyes and see what we see. But of course she didn't. So in this book she becomes Mrs Max Traeger.
I keep wondering when she'll snap. Because a person can only take so much. But she continues to take whatever Max gives her. Anything to keep him happy.
This is a frightening book. It truly is. And we've been there every step of the way. We’ve seen the change.
One line early on really stood out:
I realise that I haven't even spoken out loud to myself even though Max isn't here to hear me. And that's why I'm okay with it...because it's me deciding to be?
No it's not.
Run and run as fast as you can. It’s not love. And yet again it's like watching a horror film through your fingers. Or over the top of a cushion. You can't stop. I'm committed to this series. I'm going to read both the next books. Because while there's an alternative ending. I need to read them both. Darker one first. So hopefully when I've finally finished with this series. I'm hoping there's a relatively happy ending. Although I've given up all hopes of a HEA in the traditional sense.
The end of this book....huge cliffhanger and I do mean huge.
March 17, 2020
I don't know how much of this I can take. This was such a difficult read where you have your throat dry and one expression stuck to your face while you're reading. This is not the end and I'm not stopping.
Max is a sociopath. (nothing new) Lucy marries Max knowing now there are no options out of their relationship. Max is open and indifferent of their relationship while Lucy is embarassed and tries to come in terms with it. For their honeymoon Lucy is kept in seclution on an island for a month and only does her chores. The one time he lets her hang out with her girlfriends, a male drunk friend touch later she is in dire trouble. She was punished to black and blue. She was guilty over something she had no control over and readily accepts punishment. She pleads Max to forgive her. I don't know how much of this mind fuck I can take but I'm still reading.
This book ends with a different cliffhanger than the first two books. Again I'll repeat no one is an abuser or a victim. This is no kink play. The relationship here is Dom/Sub consentual.
Max is a sociopath. (nothing new) Lucy marries Max knowing now there are no options out of their relationship. Max is open and indifferent of their relationship while Lucy is embarassed and tries to come in terms with it. For their honeymoon Lucy is kept in seclution on an island for a month and only does her chores. The one time he lets her hang out with her girlfriends, a male drunk friend touch later she is in dire trouble. She was punished to black and blue. She was guilty over something she had no control over and readily accepts punishment. She pleads Max to forgive her. I don't know how much of this mind fuck I can take but I'm still reading.
This book ends with a different cliffhanger than the first two books. Again I'll repeat no one is an abuser or a victim. This is no kink play. The relationship here is Dom/Sub consentual.
December 29, 2015
As per usual, I have an 'I F'ing Hate Max' Speech all laid out, but really what's the point three books in when the f'r say stuff like this:
"My sweet puppy."
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You're a sick puppy to her sweet puppy; the biggest dickwad in pond of scum I've ever encountered. But, this we already knew.
'insert any thought, dialogue or action by Max ____ here.'
And you get Max being a hypocritical, cruel, asinine, sadistic, controlling, narcissistic, sociopathic etc etc etc etc m'fer
So, I'll just save the digression on Max for another day.
The Lines Just Keep Getting Closer Together
In book three, we move on from a closet captivity for a night to all out isolation as a psychological point in this relationship. He secluded her for a month, not letting her leave their home outside of doing her "chores." This didn't phase ol Lucy at all. She's all to happy to oblige.
Me? Well, I'm just fing speechless. I mean this is that same line we keep seeing between 1) punishment -and- abuse 2) and the overlapping seen within the inner dynamics of a S/M relationship -and- the checkpoints and warning calls of an abusive relationship.
In book three, the level of physical violence also escalates. There is a beating, and yes, that was an all out beating. I'm not talking a couple slaps to the face. I'm not talking a few whelps from a belt. I'm talking this chick got beat the fuck down.
Her mentality surrounding the physical "discipline" is also escalating to a level that's beyond what my mind can even comprehend
Beyond the pain being a turn-on for her, she craves his violence when she even remotely feels she has done the slightest thing wrong because she feels that's the only way she can be forgiven, that he can love her.
Sexual nature aside, from a psychological standpoint, I'm just so saddened that a human being can feel like their own valuation is so little.
" He gets hard seeing his marks on me. I get wet knowing this. I don't try to analyze it. It's just us. "
Lucy shuts off any analytical thoughts the moment they arise. She's angry... She backs off the thought to replace it with guilt. She's wanting control over something... She backs off the thought to replace it with her love for Max and happiness in his control.
It feels like a mere physical shell of the Lucy that started this book because she now refuses to even think in an opposing way to Max; she's forfeited everything that makes her an individual vs Max's wife.
"The pain is what I deserve. For my stupidity. My betrayal."
"I had no idea how much anger he kept hidden inside. But I knew the consequences of pushing open that door. Pushing the limits of his forgiveness."
She sat by a former co-worker and he touched her hand. Max beat her and the above is her line of thinking about it.
I Simply Can't Understand Max
Max is spanking a nearly naked Lucy on an open beach. They notice a neighbor is watching. Lucy is horrified. Max is a peacock with his chest proudly puffed out. They later encounter this neighbor in a restaurant and have dinner with him. The neighbor openly appraises Lucy and insinuates how f'ing wonderful it must be to have a
So that's okay, but she's a "whore" and deserves to get beat down MMA style over a former male coworker touching her hand at a dinner with other friends.
"You shouldn't have been anywhere near another man. And, yes, you should've left."
What...
I'm tired of even trying to comprehend Max as a person.
I've went from thinking him a controlling douche that gets his sex rocks off on hitting women in book one, to an all out sadist in book two, to a mfing sociopath that probably has a herd of farm animals he is torturing hidden somewhere.
My Take Away
At what point does it matter or not matter if she is willing, consenting, even eager for these incidences? That's a question each reader answers for themselves.
For me, her actually making an informed choice to choose this life is actually becoming a more important element in my opinion each time she chooses to go further down the rabbit hole.
This IS NOT akin to an addict, where there are foreign chemicals impacting the person making a rational decision(s).
This is not a case of fear that she can't leave. She continually chooses to go further down the rabbit hole with him even though she is given multiple chances to back away, such as after the first slap and then when she chooses to marry him.
There are no reasons to think she's mentally ill and incapable of making a sane decision. She functioned in a job without incident. She's had 'quote' -normal, healthy- 'unquote' relationships up until this one. She was aware that others would view the terms of their relationship as abnormal or wrong. Yet, she chose him and chose to give away her life. So, there' s no mental health factor here to blame her decision upon.
She's sane and choosing to 1.Love a monster. 2. Relinquish 100% control & safety of her mind, body, and soul to the monster.
Bottom line has three points:
• Yes, this is an abusive relationship. Not a single if and, or but about what it is for me any longer. Abusive.
• There are no excuses for her decisions within this relationship or as an individual other than wanton, need, desire, and enjoyment. Self-fulfilled.
• She wants and chooses to knowingly enter in an abusive marriage with a man she knows is an abuser.
*washes hands of my worry & officially places Lucy in the category of to each their own.*
The End
This damndable book ends in a cliffhanger. I did not see that coming at all. Wth? Max isn't the master of torture. Oh no! That title goes to his book mommy, Willow. Genius cliffhanger;)
May 15, 2020
Am I ever going to actually like Max for more than a few pages at a time?
This was the book where for me the relationship between Lucy and Max seemed to slide slowly from consensual DD to abuse. MY boundaries were overstepped in the previous books, but that doesn't mean it was wrong for Lucy and Max. However the more I read this the more I truly worried for Lucy. The way she took all the blame for his anger, his disappointment, even when she wasn't really at fault. He criticises her parents for "not having raised her properly" (ie subservient to the man of the house) and reacts badly when this unsurprisingly upsets her.
Yet as with the previous two books, two things shine through. Max does deeply care for Lucy, even though he is a selfish bastard, and Lucy craves the dominance that Max wields. Whatever one thinks about this relationship, however one feels about these characters, there is no denying the skill with which the author had written the book.
I want to please Max. I want to give him everything that he demands. I want to bend to his will.
You find yourself questioning if this IS abuse or not, you realise that you DON'T have the right to judge how anyone else chooses to conduct their relationship (as long as it is consensual), and if you're like me you will see-saw back and forth on whether this IS a consensual relationship or not. He forces her into jogging and keep fit (so she can run with him) but also joins an Art Institute, which is Lucy's favourite museum. Lucy has a desperate need to please Max and it's hard to know if he is taking advantage of that or filling a need in her.
I still don't like Max, I admire that he is driven, he is single-minded in his focus and he does what he says. My issue is that it is all about him. He is very narcissistic when all is said and done. He may do nice things for Lucy, but often it's only because it suits him to. He enjoys hurting her too much, especially during sex. He revels in inflicting pain and in giving punishments, and whilst I'm not experienced in the M/s world, I've chatted with enough Dom's to know that most of them don't get this type of pleasure out of punishing their submissives. They don't enjoy seeing them in true pain. A sadist might enjoy inflicting sensual pain that ultimately brings the masochist pleasure, but that wasn't quite the vibe I was getting here. He gets hard seeing her bruises, his marks on her body.
"I know my cruelty excites her."
"I want to take my time hurting her."
"I need to see her tears. I need to hear her screams."
"Something about how embarrassed Lucy is acting makes me want to embarrass her even more."
There were many occasions when I questioned the validity of Max's feelings for Lucy. Does he truly love her, or does he love her submission? Her willingness to go along with everything he demands? Her desire to please and do as he tells her regardless of her own needs and wishes?
I'd rather be wearing jeans and a sweatshirt on the water, but I don't have a choice.
....
"You look great...but you're still going to freeze. I'll get a scarf and gloves for you from Mom."
Whilst it's nice that Max is concerned about Lucy being cold, it's his insistence on her wearing girly dresses and skirts that puts her in that position.
And yet there ARE times he is very solicitous of her wellbeing.
"Lucy, are you cold?" Max saw me shudder and is raising the car windows.
"No, I'm fine." I smile at his attentiveness. He always notices everything. "Thank you."
Despite rushing her to get married, and not allowing her a say in it, he DOES want to know her wedding day dreams and plans. He arranges for her friend to be a support and shoulder to cry on when she packs up her apartment before they get married. He reassures her that she will still see her friends once they are married and he uses ice packs and gives her pain killers after a very severe punishment. To top it all off, Lucy gets turned on by his actions and reactions - so is it wrong?
But then the author reminds us of how on edge Lucy is.
"Her bright blue eyes, so telling. Fear."
"She know's she's angered me. Her fear is electric."
"I just smile up at him, hoing this won't turn into an angry night."
"I've never been more scared of him."
Then there is how quick to anger Max is, he "goes ballistic", his "temper flares so quickly with her", "anger is flaring back up"
Followed by just how very controlling Max is.
"We're getting married next month and that's final." He turns and walks away. I wait before following him downstairs.
I know Max likes being in control, but... but this is our wedding. This is the rest of our lives together. Maybe I'll try to talk to him again when we're back in the city. We really need to make some decisions together.
But I know I'm kidding myself. Max doesn't just like being in control. Max is in control.
"This ring means that you are no longer in control of anything. So when I tell you that we're getting married next month...that is what we're doing."
Whilst Max acknowledges Lucy's feelings, he doesn't seem to be bothered by them. As though Lucy's emotions really, really don't matter to him. Yet later he tell's Lucy -
"I will always try to take into consideration how you feel about something. But you need to understand that in our marriage, I will make all the decisions.
He tells her that if she really doesn't like one of his decisions she may ask him to reconsider it. Though he won't (and doesn't) allow her to express her thoughts/reasons/opinions on it because it is "tantamount with arguing."
I think one of the most disturbing aspects is how Lucy is unquestioning in most of this, how she readily accepts the blame for the pain he inflicts. Though there are some doubts.
It all seemed to happen so fast. But that look...I didn't know him.
I remember what I thought when I turned away from the terrace...that I had to get away from him.
This was the book where for me the relationship between Lucy and Max seemed to slide slowly from consensual DD to abuse. MY boundaries were overstepped in the previous books, but that doesn't mean it was wrong for Lucy and Max. However the more I read this the more I truly worried for Lucy. The way she took all the blame for his anger, his disappointment, even when she wasn't really at fault. He criticises her parents for "not having raised her properly" (ie subservient to the man of the house) and reacts badly when this unsurprisingly upsets her.
Yet as with the previous two books, two things shine through. Max does deeply care for Lucy, even though he is a selfish bastard, and Lucy craves the dominance that Max wields. Whatever one thinks about this relationship, however one feels about these characters, there is no denying the skill with which the author had written the book.
I want to please Max. I want to give him everything that he demands. I want to bend to his will.
You find yourself questioning if this IS abuse or not, you realise that you DON'T have the right to judge how anyone else chooses to conduct their relationship (as long as it is consensual), and if you're like me you will see-saw back and forth on whether this IS a consensual relationship or not. He forces her into jogging and keep fit (so she can run with him) but also joins an Art Institute, which is Lucy's favourite museum. Lucy has a desperate need to please Max and it's hard to know if he is taking advantage of that or filling a need in her.
I still don't like Max, I admire that he is driven, he is single-minded in his focus and he does what he says. My issue is that it is all about him. He is very narcissistic when all is said and done. He may do nice things for Lucy, but often it's only because it suits him to. He enjoys hurting her too much, especially during sex. He revels in inflicting pain and in giving punishments, and whilst I'm not experienced in the M/s world, I've chatted with enough Dom's to know that most of them don't get this type of pleasure out of punishing their submissives. They don't enjoy seeing them in true pain. A sadist might enjoy inflicting sensual pain that ultimately brings the masochist pleasure, but that wasn't quite the vibe I was getting here. He gets hard seeing her bruises, his marks on her body.
"I know my cruelty excites her."
"I want to take my time hurting her."
"I need to see her tears. I need to hear her screams."
"Something about how embarrassed Lucy is acting makes me want to embarrass her even more."
There were many occasions when I questioned the validity of Max's feelings for Lucy. Does he truly love her, or does he love her submission? Her willingness to go along with everything he demands? Her desire to please and do as he tells her regardless of her own needs and wishes?
I'd rather be wearing jeans and a sweatshirt on the water, but I don't have a choice.
....
"You look great...but you're still going to freeze. I'll get a scarf and gloves for you from Mom."
Whilst it's nice that Max is concerned about Lucy being cold, it's his insistence on her wearing girly dresses and skirts that puts her in that position.
And yet there ARE times he is very solicitous of her wellbeing.
"Lucy, are you cold?" Max saw me shudder and is raising the car windows.
"No, I'm fine." I smile at his attentiveness. He always notices everything. "Thank you."
Despite rushing her to get married, and not allowing her a say in it, he DOES want to know her wedding day dreams and plans. He arranges for her friend to be a support and shoulder to cry on when she packs up her apartment before they get married. He reassures her that she will still see her friends once they are married and he uses ice packs and gives her pain killers after a very severe punishment. To top it all off, Lucy gets turned on by his actions and reactions - so is it wrong?
But then the author reminds us of how on edge Lucy is.
"Her bright blue eyes, so telling. Fear."
"She know's she's angered me. Her fear is electric."
"I just smile up at him, hoing this won't turn into an angry night."
"I've never been more scared of him."
Then there is how quick to anger Max is, he "goes ballistic", his "temper flares so quickly with her", "anger is flaring back up"
Followed by just how very controlling Max is.
"We're getting married next month and that's final." He turns and walks away. I wait before following him downstairs.
I know Max likes being in control, but... but this is our wedding. This is the rest of our lives together. Maybe I'll try to talk to him again when we're back in the city. We really need to make some decisions together.
But I know I'm kidding myself. Max doesn't just like being in control. Max is in control.
"This ring means that you are no longer in control of anything. So when I tell you that we're getting married next month...that is what we're doing."
Whilst Max acknowledges Lucy's feelings, he doesn't seem to be bothered by them. As though Lucy's emotions really, really don't matter to him. Yet later he tell's Lucy -
"I will always try to take into consideration how you feel about something. But you need to understand that in our marriage, I will make all the decisions.
He tells her that if she really doesn't like one of his decisions she may ask him to reconsider it. Though he won't (and doesn't) allow her to express her thoughts/reasons/opinions on it because it is "tantamount with arguing."
I think one of the most disturbing aspects is how Lucy is unquestioning in most of this, how she readily accepts the blame for the pain he inflicts. Though there are some doubts.
It all seemed to happen so fast. But that look...I didn't know him.
I remember what I thought when I turned away from the terrace...that I had to get away from him.
August 17, 2019
3.75 stars. Edit: I'm upping to five stars because this book contained key moments in Max and Lucy's relationship where his controlling behavior escalated. I find their dynamic fascinating, jaw dropping at times. I was captivated by these moments and see myself rereading the entire series. I still kinda wish I got to see more of Max and Lucy navigating married life after the wedding, but I'll take the wedding planning, wedding, and honeymoon. I especially found the bachelor party and aftermath fascinating.
Original review.
Original review.
August 15, 2016
Do not read this review if you haven’t read the first two books in the series and are familiar with the story and characters.
In the third installment of True, we find Max and Lucy getting married and Lucy dealing more fully with Max’s demands. While on honeymoon Lucy already gets a taste of how things will be different, now that she is his wife, when she is punished outside in full view of another bungalow neighbor. Lucy is mortified, but Max is indifferent. He will punish her for her transgressions whenever it is needed. Regardless of who is around or where they are. Max also really pushes Lucy to be exceptionally open about her role in their marriage to the myriad of people they come in contact with while they are on honeymoon. Although Lucy does feel a little anxiety and trepidation at having to be so open about her relationship, she also finds it enlightening and freeing to be able to be who she wants without rebuke.
When they return home, Lucy is no longer working, according to Max’s rules, and Max is also very keen on getting pregnant ASAP. He just wants his own happy family with the house, wife, and kids. Lucy is struggling with her new role and is also scared that she won’t be able to get pregnant. Being that is one of Max’s “requirements” she fears that something will happen that will make it so she can’t fulfill this wish. She is also fearing how their child will be raised, and how their child will view her given the kind of relationship she has with Max. But throughout all her fears and insecurities, Lucy tries as hard has ever to be the wife that she wants and needs to be for Max.
One of my favorite things in this story is Lucy sticking up for herself to her “friend” Tracy. Who has been trying to ruin Lucy’s relationship from the get go because she doesn’t like how Max treats Lucy. This is funny on its own as Tracy is so freaking demanding and disrespectful to everyone in her circle. She completely disregards her friends’ opinions and feelings. So it was with much applause that I read Lucy finally giving an earful to Tracy. Which consisted of the things stated above, and her telling Tracy to basically shove it because she doesn’t have to listen to what she says and won’t anymore. Of course I’m sure a lot of readers couldn’t understand this given that she obeys Max and does everything he says. But she agreed to that kind of lifestyle and relationship with Max. What Tracy did was essentially bullying. Doing whatever she needed to in order to make everyone around her fall to her feet and do everything she says. I LOVED having Lucy finally give it to her.
On the other side of the spectrum we have Laura, who I adored. She is so sweet and caring and just wants her friends to be happy. She is definitely a people pleaser who hasn’t realized her submissive nature yet. She really is a good friend as she listens to Lucy and gives her opinion when asked. She doesn’t judge Lucy, in fact just asks questions so that she can better understand her friend. GREAT friend!! Everyone should have one of these.
The end of the book is a giant cliffy. Lucy’s phone and purse are in the garbage can outside the Dr. office she was supposed to have an appointment with. What happened? You will need to read 4.1 and/or 4.2 to find out as there are two different endings to this story. I, personally, preferred 4.1 instead of 4.2, but you’ll have to decide for yourself.
I received copy of this story for free from the author in exchange for my honest review.
In the third installment of True, we find Max and Lucy getting married and Lucy dealing more fully with Max’s demands. While on honeymoon Lucy already gets a taste of how things will be different, now that she is his wife, when she is punished outside in full view of another bungalow neighbor. Lucy is mortified, but Max is indifferent. He will punish her for her transgressions whenever it is needed. Regardless of who is around or where they are. Max also really pushes Lucy to be exceptionally open about her role in their marriage to the myriad of people they come in contact with while they are on honeymoon. Although Lucy does feel a little anxiety and trepidation at having to be so open about her relationship, she also finds it enlightening and freeing to be able to be who she wants without rebuke.
When they return home, Lucy is no longer working, according to Max’s rules, and Max is also very keen on getting pregnant ASAP. He just wants his own happy family with the house, wife, and kids. Lucy is struggling with her new role and is also scared that she won’t be able to get pregnant. Being that is one of Max’s “requirements” she fears that something will happen that will make it so she can’t fulfill this wish. She is also fearing how their child will be raised, and how their child will view her given the kind of relationship she has with Max. But throughout all her fears and insecurities, Lucy tries as hard has ever to be the wife that she wants and needs to be for Max.
One of my favorite things in this story is Lucy sticking up for herself to her “friend” Tracy. Who has been trying to ruin Lucy’s relationship from the get go because she doesn’t like how Max treats Lucy. This is funny on its own as Tracy is so freaking demanding and disrespectful to everyone in her circle. She completely disregards her friends’ opinions and feelings. So it was with much applause that I read Lucy finally giving an earful to Tracy. Which consisted of the things stated above, and her telling Tracy to basically shove it because she doesn’t have to listen to what she says and won’t anymore. Of course I’m sure a lot of readers couldn’t understand this given that she obeys Max and does everything he says. But she agreed to that kind of lifestyle and relationship with Max. What Tracy did was essentially bullying. Doing whatever she needed to in order to make everyone around her fall to her feet and do everything she says. I LOVED having Lucy finally give it to her.
On the other side of the spectrum we have Laura, who I adored. She is so sweet and caring and just wants her friends to be happy. She is definitely a people pleaser who hasn’t realized her submissive nature yet. She really is a good friend as she listens to Lucy and gives her opinion when asked. She doesn’t judge Lucy, in fact just asks questions so that she can better understand her friend. GREAT friend!! Everyone should have one of these.
The end of the book is a giant cliffy. Lucy’s phone and purse are in the garbage can outside the Dr. office she was supposed to have an appointment with. What happened? You will need to read 4.1 and/or 4.2 to find out as there are two different endings to this story. I, personally, preferred 4.1 instead of 4.2, but you’ll have to decide for yourself.
I received copy of this story for free from the author in exchange for my honest review.
August 19, 2015
Holy cliffhanger!
Wasn't I just praising the author on the last two about how the endings were a wonderful mix of making you want to buy the next, but not so horrible of a cliffhanger that you're staying up until 4am to finish? Yeah, so that's not the case here but man, was this good. First, let's start at the beginning, Lucy is on cloud nine with Max, and he takes his ownership of her to the whole next level. Lucy struggles with his new rules and the changes he's insisting she make Lucy has more and more of a difficult time acquiescing to his demands. Well, parts of Lucy anyway...
"I know my cruelty excites her. Her mind may not want this, but her body needs to be claimed." But as usual, Max doesn't care, which is why I still love him... "I want this to last. I want to take my time hurting her. I am an animal, a monster. And I love it."
Wasn't I just praising the author on the last two about how the endings were a wonderful mix of making you want to buy the next, but not so horrible of a cliffhanger that you're staying up until 4am to finish? Yeah, so that's not the case here but man, was this good. First, let's start at the beginning, Lucy is on cloud nine with Max, and he takes his ownership of her to the whole next level. Lucy struggles with his new rules and the changes he's insisting she make Lucy has more and more of a difficult time acquiescing to his demands. Well, parts of Lucy anyway...
"I know my cruelty excites her. Her mind may not want this, but her body needs to be claimed." But as usual, Max doesn't care, which is why I still love him... "I want this to last. I want to take my time hurting her. I am an animal, a monster. And I love it."
June 26, 2015
I am flying right through this series. I actually finished this book early this morning, and could not quit. Just finished book 4.1 and have already downloaded 4.2 because I have to know the difference between the two endings. Happy reading, at your own risk!!! Take the risk, though, and do so with an open mind.
If you love twisted, then you will love this book, or at least appreciate it.
If you love twisted, then you will love this book, or at least appreciate it.
August 12, 2016
this book is trash... this whole series is trash. don't be fooled by the "a dark erotic romance" tag. it's not that at all. don't waste your time.
March 8, 2020
The third in this series,True Choices travels deeper down the rabbithole,so deep it gets really dark....
Max and Lucy are married,the wedding exactly as Max planned.
I was worried he’d have a problem with Lucy’s dress,but relieved he didn’t.
Their honeymoon is a mystery to Lucy,but finding out they’re going go Italy makes her very happy.
She’s learning to follow his rules more and more,which pleases Max.
After that wonderful time,they return home and Max is quick to teach her what he expects from her.
Lucy still only wants to please him,make him happy,and does everything he demands.
Only one thing worries her,his plans to start a family as soon as possible.
Knowing how much trouble the women in her family have had in that department makes her worry she won’t be able to give him what he wants....
Married life should’ve been a little easier for Lucy,imho.
Sure,he has his rules,and yes she has to follow those.
But she is so obviously doing her very best!
And still,Max finds things to punish her for.
His anger worries me.
Because he is NOT in control of himself when he’s angry.
No matter what he says,what he thinks,he is NOT.
The evening Lucy is allowed to go out with her friends is a good example.
Tracy invites Rich,and even though Lucy does her best to keep her distance,Max sees his hand on her when he comes to collect her.
He won’t let her explain,and she even feels guilty for something she had no control over.
But when they get home.....that punishment?
He KNOWS he’s going too far,but still he continues.
Even gets hard seeing the result....
And Lucy?
She accepts his punishment,even wants it too a point.
And she wants to make up after,pleading with him to forgive her.
Thát makes this story such a mindf**k,knowing Lucy accepts Max for who and what he is,even after he loses control.
Not during,though.....he frightens her then,is not the Max she knows.
This part does convince me i will probably like the darker end more.
And that is because Lucy probably will....if that makes any sense.
What i do know,is that i am going to find out right now.
Because i dó need to know!
And thanks to Willow’s generosity,i can!
Max and Lucy are married,the wedding exactly as Max planned.
I was worried he’d have a problem with Lucy’s dress,but relieved he didn’t.
Their honeymoon is a mystery to Lucy,but finding out they’re going go Italy makes her very happy.
She’s learning to follow his rules more and more,which pleases Max.
After that wonderful time,they return home and Max is quick to teach her what he expects from her.
Lucy still only wants to please him,make him happy,and does everything he demands.
Only one thing worries her,his plans to start a family as soon as possible.
Knowing how much trouble the women in her family have had in that department makes her worry she won’t be able to give him what he wants....
Married life should’ve been a little easier for Lucy,imho.
Sure,he has his rules,and yes she has to follow those.
But she is so obviously doing her very best!
And still,Max finds things to punish her for.
His anger worries me.
Because he is NOT in control of himself when he’s angry.
No matter what he says,what he thinks,he is NOT.
The evening Lucy is allowed to go out with her friends is a good example.
Tracy invites Rich,and even though Lucy does her best to keep her distance,Max sees his hand on her when he comes to collect her.
He won’t let her explain,and she even feels guilty for something she had no control over.
But when they get home.....that punishment?
He KNOWS he’s going too far,but still he continues.
Even gets hard seeing the result....
And Lucy?
She accepts his punishment,even wants it too a point.
And she wants to make up after,pleading with him to forgive her.
Thát makes this story such a mindf**k,knowing Lucy accepts Max for who and what he is,even after he loses control.
Not during,though.....he frightens her then,is not the Max she knows.
This part does convince me i will probably like the darker end more.
And that is because Lucy probably will....if that makes any sense.
What i do know,is that i am going to find out right now.
Because i dó need to know!
And thanks to Willow’s generosity,i can!
April 9, 2015
MILD SPOILERS!!
3.5 stars again... I can't go higher or lower with this series because I feel like I shouldn't like all the craziness but I kinda find it interesting.. Anyways our Hero (if you can call him that) was just such I meanie this book, I wish the h stood up for herself on little things like her own wedding plans!!! But alas we end with a cliffhanger and more conflicting feelings with this "traditional marriage".
P.S I can't look at belts the same way anymore... And I've read a lot of BDSM, but the belts are used purely for punishment here so no pleasure for our h and a new fear of belts for me!
3.5 stars again... I can't go higher or lower with this series because I feel like I shouldn't like all the craziness but I kinda find it interesting.. Anyways our Hero (if you can call him that) was just such I meanie this book, I wish the h stood up for herself on little things like her own wedding plans!!! But alas we end with a cliffhanger and more conflicting feelings with this "traditional marriage".
P.S I can't look at belts the same way anymore... And I've read a lot of BDSM, but the belts are used purely for punishment here so no pleasure for our h and a new fear of belts for me!
March 30, 2015
Max and his dad are in great need of a GIANT whoop ass! Being submissive is one thing, being a punching bag....
September 12, 2020
Series RTC
July 22, 2015
Another winner from Willow Madison. 5 bleeping stars!
In this book, the third in the series, we see Lucy punished more and become even more immersed in the life that Max offers her. I feel bad for Lucy at times but ultimately, she is where she wants to be. It’s as simple as that. And I want her to stay with Max, too, cuz I love me some Max!
This isn’t a sweet book but it had its moments. I could feel that Max adored Lucy, I really could even though he was a right bastid. What is it about Max that I both love and hate? I feel horrible for him because I think he has a darkness inside him that consumes him at times. He is so controlling, I can’t help but think maybe with therapy, he could still be the dominant Alpha but a much more at peace dominant Alpha.
But this book isn’t about the way Max would be with therapy. It’s about Max as he is and it offers an intimate look into the mind of a man who carries darkness within like a shroud. I can’t help but think he’s going to go off the rails one day and truly hurt Lucy even though he doesn’t want to hurt her. His control is only as good as his ability to leash his darkness.
This isn’t a book that you’ll close and skip away never to think about it again or if you do, its with a fondness that has you smiling. No, this book will rip your guts out and put them in a pretty box. This is a book that will have you squirming but for all the ‘right’ reasons, haha. This is a book that will haunt your memory for years to come because it’s just that good.
I would say this book is a romance but it’s a very dark romance between two people, both of whom are in love with the other, but that love may not be healthy. For pure reading pleasure, I adore this series. I adore Max. I want to hug him and get him into therapy, but I still love him.
And that is the mark of a great author, in my opinion.
In this book, the third in the series, we see Lucy punished more and become even more immersed in the life that Max offers her. I feel bad for Lucy at times but ultimately, she is where she wants to be. It’s as simple as that. And I want her to stay with Max, too, cuz I love me some Max!
This isn’t a sweet book but it had its moments. I could feel that Max adored Lucy, I really could even though he was a right bastid. What is it about Max that I both love and hate? I feel horrible for him because I think he has a darkness inside him that consumes him at times. He is so controlling, I can’t help but think maybe with therapy, he could still be the dominant Alpha but a much more at peace dominant Alpha.
But this book isn’t about the way Max would be with therapy. It’s about Max as he is and it offers an intimate look into the mind of a man who carries darkness within like a shroud. I can’t help but think he’s going to go off the rails one day and truly hurt Lucy even though he doesn’t want to hurt her. His control is only as good as his ability to leash his darkness.
This isn’t a book that you’ll close and skip away never to think about it again or if you do, its with a fondness that has you smiling. No, this book will rip your guts out and put them in a pretty box. This is a book that will have you squirming but for all the ‘right’ reasons, haha. This is a book that will haunt your memory for years to come because it’s just that good.
I would say this book is a romance but it’s a very dark romance between two people, both of whom are in love with the other, but that love may not be healthy. For pure reading pleasure, I adore this series. I adore Max. I want to hug him and get him into therapy, but I still love him.
And that is the mark of a great author, in my opinion.
August 23, 2019
The low rating expresses my feelings of the FMC and how much she frustrated me!
I had the same feeling reading this series that I had with Consequences (the MMC
was less mean in this one), needless to say I was appalled by it. It's not a dark romance, it's more of a "consensual" abusive relationship, he wanted her bc he felt that she'll accept his way of life, but if he'd ever sensed any reluctance from her to accept him a 100%, he would have let her go, so he'll continue to look for "the one" for him. He took her without any effort or concessions (from him of course, bc she did a lot!). I didn't understand the female MC, too passive, not questionning any of the Hs decisions for her,even when she wasn't happy with them. I understand that one wants to let go of control, but not of reasoning, not at the level this FMC did anyway. She wasn't even unhappy in her old life to help me understand why she jumped that easily in the opposite direction. I don't know, maybe if it was presented like a real BDSM relationship, without that hypocrisy from the MMC wanting a traditional family and him being a traditional man not a kinky one, I would have believed it better. I would have understand her wanting a BDSM relationship but not an abusive one!
I had the same feeling reading this series that I had with Consequences (the MMC
was less mean in this one), needless to say I was appalled by it. It's not a dark romance, it's more of a "consensual" abusive relationship, he wanted her bc he felt that she'll accept his way of life, but if he'd ever sensed any reluctance from her to accept him a 100%, he would have let her go, so he'll continue to look for "the one" for him. He took her without any effort or concessions (from him of course, bc she did a lot!). I didn't understand the female MC, too passive, not questionning any of the Hs decisions for her,even when she wasn't happy with them. I understand that one wants to let go of control, but not of reasoning, not at the level this FMC did anyway. She wasn't even unhappy in her old life to help me understand why she jumped that easily in the opposite direction. I don't know, maybe if it was presented like a real BDSM relationship, without that hypocrisy from the MMC wanting a traditional family and him being a traditional man not a kinky one, I would have believed it better. I would have understand her wanting a BDSM relationship but not an abusive one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
March 23, 2016FINALLY! True Choices is available in paperback:
https://www.createspace.com/6131888
https://www.createspace.com/6131888
March 19, 2020
This third book takes us into the deep end of the pool that is this tormented relationship. There was a moment when I had to stop reading because it was becoming too intense for my state of mind (we're forced to stay at home for a period of at least two weeks in my country to prevent the spreading of the coronavirus/covid 19, not an easy situation to endure); but I couldn't stop thinking about the book and the progression of the rough love between Max and Lucy.
Max's control and Lucy's submission are getting deeper and consuming, to the point that every single aspect of their lives is decided by him and she doesn't have a choice at this point but to accept it; but she does realize that that's what she's wanted in her life all this time without knowing it, the partners she had before Max were too laid-back , too easy-going and she was the one to take decisions. With Max her only role is to make him happy being what he needs her to be and she'll do anything for him. He's clearly a sadist that gets turned on by her fear/pain and specially by the marks he leaves in her body, and she's a masochist who gets hot by his anger and cruelty...what a sweet combination!
All my moral objections were void after going along with the fact that she chooses him every single time over everyone and everything else. I had more trouble accepting two things: 1) Max's reaction after seeing Lucy touching another guy's hand (his hand, of all things), the harsh punishment and the way Lucy takes the blame, 2) the one-sided decision to have a baby, that was for me too much. But the author's writing is so good that it took me through their process and accept it as valid, which is a huge compliment because making you see all this twisted torment as something understandable takes a lot of talent. The words are fluid and natural, the story is absolutely riveting, once you get into it you cannot stop.
That is, of course, if you are limited by moral restrictions/beliefs (you can't read this with your PC goggles on) too strong to let you open your mind to different perspectives in life. You don't have to embrace it or condone this type of relationship, just accept that not everyone feels the same way and fit in the general mold.
I also loved Jake (Max's brother), his complete change of personality since he's "come out"as a mirror image of his brother...I find him fascinating, perhaps I like him even more than Max :-D so I'm looking forward to reading what his role is going to be in the next book.
This book is highly recommended for dark genre readers but avoid it if you're fainthearted and sensitive to triggers such as rough corporal punishments. There is a huge cliff-hanger at the end, that's important to know, but if you have been hooked by this series same as I've been, you won't be able to stop reading now...so on to the next book!!
Max's control and Lucy's submission are getting deeper and consuming, to the point that every single aspect of their lives is decided by him and she doesn't have a choice at this point but to accept it; but she does realize that that's what she's wanted in her life all this time without knowing it, the partners she had before Max were too laid-back , too easy-going and she was the one to take decisions. With Max her only role is to make him happy being what he needs her to be and she'll do anything for him. He's clearly a sadist that gets turned on by her fear/pain and specially by the marks he leaves in her body, and she's a masochist who gets hot by his anger and cruelty...what a sweet combination!
All my moral objections were void after going along with the fact that she chooses him every single time over everyone and everything else. I had more trouble accepting two things: 1) Max's reaction after seeing Lucy touching another guy's hand (his hand, of all things), the harsh punishment and the way Lucy takes the blame, 2) the one-sided decision to have a baby, that was for me too much. But the author's writing is so good that it took me through their process and accept it as valid, which is a huge compliment because making you see all this twisted torment as something understandable takes a lot of talent. The words are fluid and natural, the story is absolutely riveting, once you get into it you cannot stop.
That is, of course, if you are limited by moral restrictions/beliefs (you can't read this with your PC goggles on) too strong to let you open your mind to different perspectives in life. You don't have to embrace it or condone this type of relationship, just accept that not everyone feels the same way and fit in the general mold.
I also loved Jake (Max's brother), his complete change of personality since he's "come out"as a mirror image of his brother...I find him fascinating, perhaps I like him even more than Max :-D so I'm looking forward to reading what his role is going to be in the next book.
This book is highly recommended for dark genre readers but avoid it if you're fainthearted and sensitive to triggers such as rough corporal punishments. There is a huge cliff-hanger at the end, that's important to know, but if you have been hooked by this series same as I've been, you won't be able to stop reading now...so on to the next book!!
July 9, 2016
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Now that Lucy truly belongs to Max, oh boy! We get to see a total power exchange in action and it is not hearts and flowers. Lucy continues to give into Max's demands on everything. I think he controls her thoughts too! Again, this book had some really rough scenes, I felt Max's strong love for Lucy in book 3. In the previous books, Max came off like he was in love with the control and power and not so much Lucy. For me, I saw a Max who was all about Lucy and the love he had for her. It was painfully endearing.
This book ends in a big cliffhanger and I can't wait to download the final book!
Why Not 5 Stars?
Lucy seems much younger each book. She seems child-like and clueless. This Lucy is very different from book 1. Perhaps this is what happens in a TPE? I can't wait to find out!!
Now that Lucy truly belongs to Max, oh boy! We get to see a total power exchange in action and it is not hearts and flowers. Lucy continues to give into Max's demands on everything. I think he controls her thoughts too! Again, this book had some really rough scenes, I felt Max's strong love for Lucy in book 3. In the previous books, Max came off like he was in love with the control and power and not so much Lucy. For me, I saw a Max who was all about Lucy and the love he had for her. It was painfully endearing.
This book ends in a big cliffhanger and I can't wait to download the final book!
Why Not 5 Stars?
Lucy seems much younger each book. She seems child-like and clueless. This Lucy is very different from book 1. Perhaps this is what happens in a TPE? I can't wait to find out!!
July 15, 2015
Ong
I'm entering my fourth book I've read them all in a row. is very twisty . You're kind of brainwashed a little bit too. I don't want to get too much away but I am very very engaged in this book. it is a lot of everything . I really really like it . To the author I think and, I hope you read this, I think you did a really amazing job I am looking forward to seeing some more of your writing . I love that you wrote two endings..I really don't know how I want this to go. Will be back after I read it
I'm entering my fourth book I've read them all in a row. is very twisty . You're kind of brainwashed a little bit too. I don't want to get too much away but I am very very engaged in this book. it is a lot of everything . I really really like it . To the author I think and, I hope you read this, I think you did a really amazing job I am looking forward to seeing some more of your writing . I love that you wrote two endings..I really don't know how I want this to go. Will be back after I read it
November 11, 2015
This series keeps stunning me. I'm speechless! I'm trying to sum up this terrible, horrible situation of a relationship Lucy and Max have. I just can't believe how it just gets worse. There are times I'm sitting with my jaw dropped! Wondering how in the heck can someone even put up with this or think of this to write about. It just floors me! Then the ending, WOW! I'm hoping one of the continuations to the ending is what I'm hoping for (since there are 2 actual endings). So KUDOS to you Willow Madison for having such a wild imagination and keep me wanting to read more of this series!!!
July 27, 2015
There were times I was screaming...noooo Lucy dont do it, if I thought Max could not be anymore controling I was wrong.....but Lucy is getting comfortable with her new life..what's up with Jake and his weekly meetings? and where is Lucy? I guess these questions will be answered in the next book...Man Max is tough on Lucy and she takes it like a pro..ouch..
January 21, 2020
Some story in this part but still punishment themes continue, misjudgment of situations with the heroine, blaming and punishing the heroine. The only thing I liked in this book was the over the top jealousy - misplaced, of course, but again strongly disliked the unmitigated abuse.
Read
January 8, 2015Once again, LOVED it....now just wondering how long I have to wait for the fourth book????
June 29, 2024
After reading this whole series, and both alternative endings, I am revising my review down to 2 stars. This was a very emotional, uncomfortable, unforgiving, and exhausting series with no HEA and a sadness that will long be remembered.
I have to admit, this author has a way of pulling the reader into her stories no matter how you actually feel about what she is writing about. And True Choices is actually a pretty ingenious title for this book, since the actual story depicts the exact opposite of true or choices.
Max's emotional and physical abuse continues to esculate, as expected. Lucy continues to slide down the rabbit hole, dismissing any questions she has regarding the way Max treats her. He proposes, she accepts, and he, as expected, doesn't allow her any decision making regarding the wedding date, wedding venue, batchlor parties or honeymoon. She did pick her dress, but it had to be within the set specifications HE had already told the bridal shop of.
I will stress again that this is not a romance and it is not a love story. It is a very uncomfortable, very realistic, story of manipulation using physical and emotional abuse to take over someone's entire existence. It is not BDSM it is full out abuse, and I can not, in any reasonable senario, accept this as consensual either. I have read a lot of other reviews that say that it is all of those things, and it is not up to me to change anyones opinion, only to stay true to how I believe and to give my review as I see it. What I do love is that this author doesn't care what you think or what your opinion is regarding this story. It's hers to tell, good for her in doing so.
So still 3.75 stars. Maybe after one or both of the alternative endings I can give it more. Big cliffhanger...so let's start the endings.
I have to admit, this author has a way of pulling the reader into her stories no matter how you actually feel about what she is writing about. And True Choices is actually a pretty ingenious title for this book, since the actual story depicts the exact opposite of true or choices.
Max's emotional and physical abuse continues to esculate, as expected. Lucy continues to slide down the rabbit hole, dismissing any questions she has regarding the way Max treats her. He proposes, she accepts, and he, as expected, doesn't allow her any decision making regarding the wedding date, wedding venue, batchlor parties or honeymoon. She did pick her dress, but it had to be within the set specifications HE had already told the bridal shop of.
I will stress again that this is not a romance and it is not a love story. It is a very uncomfortable, very realistic, story of manipulation using physical and emotional abuse to take over someone's entire existence. It is not BDSM it is full out abuse, and I can not, in any reasonable senario, accept this as consensual either. I have read a lot of other reviews that say that it is all of those things, and it is not up to me to change anyones opinion, only to stay true to how I believe and to give my review as I see it. What I do love is that this author doesn't care what you think or what your opinion is regarding this story. It's hers to tell, good for her in doing so.
So still 3.75 stars. Maybe after one or both of the alternative endings I can give it more. Big cliffhanger...so let's start the endings.
July 24, 2019
I've been searching for a long time for an author to write a book that seems bdsm, but is real life oriented. It's well written and conveys the exact feelings one would feel in such a relationship. The author did a good job! I am happy when I find an author not afraid to go against the whole politically correct trend feminist writing. Not all women think alike. I actually come from a background not far from the real deal portrayed in the book and it's ok. Some old customs prevail in some societies and women are content with that. Men are men and take care of their families. Women take care of their men and children and are happy. Nobody judges. Thank you, Willow Madison, for being brave enough to be different.
December 4, 2019
Max + Lucy
I am in love. I am in awe. I am inspired.
Max was alpha male excellence and when I say alpha male I mean top of the line, tell the world I spank/slap my wife, who gone stop me type man. There was no shame in the way Max treated Lucy, and I figured this book would be like many others where he would change to try to become more normal but he said “screw normal this is me”.
I need more stories like this without the bdsm but just a play on a VERY traditional marriage and a man that will put his foot down.
I am in love. I am in awe. I am inspired.
Max was alpha male excellence and when I say alpha male I mean top of the line, tell the world I spank/slap my wife, who gone stop me type man. There was no shame in the way Max treated Lucy, and I figured this book would be like many others where he would change to try to become more normal but he said “screw normal this is me”.
I need more stories like this without the bdsm but just a play on a VERY traditional marriage and a man that will put his foot down.
October 13, 2019
For me this dropped a bit. After book 2, I still expected the same expectations.
Moving on, Lucy seeks Max’s praise on everything. Her life is no longer who she was. Life has taken further expectations from Max and disappointing him is not her highest priority.
Strict rule of no spoiling contents, again, may not suit all readers but must be read in order.
Degradation, abuse, ? misogynistic behaviour, submission - a few words to consider.
Moving on, Lucy seeks Max’s praise on everything. Her life is no longer who she was. Life has taken further expectations from Max and disappointing him is not her highest priority.
Strict rule of no spoiling contents, again, may not suit all readers but must be read in order.
Degradation, abuse, ? misogynistic behaviour, submission - a few words to consider.
August 23, 2022
4.5 ⭐️s
July 23, 2015
Brave Author with awesome writing skills.
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