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Submissive #8.5
The Claiming
Fans of E. L. James, Sylvia Day, Maya Banks and Beth Kery will be seduced by New York Times bestselling author Tara Sue Me's electrifying Submissive series. The Claiming returns to the story started in The Master with this tantalizing new novella about passion, play, and possession...
Submitting is just the beginning... Sasha Blake never thought her emotional wounds would heal - that they were a part of her just like her physical scars. But that was before Cole Johnson's boundless love and overwhelmingly sexy control set her free, unleashing a confident side that she never knew she had. He's more than just her Master; he's her world. And she'll do anything he asks...
Cole's days of restless wandering are done - he's found everything he needs in Sasha. Now, it's time to make it official. When his childhood home in England goes up for sale, he realizes the old estate is the perfect place to claim Sasha as his own, and the ideal opportunity to show her just how much she means to him.
As Sasha, Cole, and their closest friends from their Partners in Play community descend on the British countryside for a titillating adult vacation, the submissives and Dominants alike will test their boundaries - and have an adventure none of them will ever forget...
Includes a sneak peek of the next Submissive novel, The Exposure...
Before there was the fan fiction that became Fifty Shades of Grey, there was The Submissive... Indulge in the series that started it all: The Submissive, The Dominant, The Training, The Chalet, The Enticement, The Collar, The Exhibitionist, The Master, The Claiming, The Exposure and The Flirtation.
114 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2016
59 people are currently reading
1435 people want to read
About the author
Tara Sue Me
71 books2,852 followersNEW YORK TIMES/USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
Even though she graduated with a degree in science, Tara knew she’d never be happy doing anything other than writing. Specifically, writing love stories.
She started with a racy BDSM story and found she was not quite prepared for the unforeseen impact it would have. Nonetheless, she continued and The Submissive Series novels would go on to be both New York Times and USA Today Bestsellers. One of those, THE MASTER, was a 2017 RITA finalist for Best Erotic Romance.
Now she is focusing on new contemporary romances that allow her the freedom to write and publish on her own schedule.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
September 28, 2016
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
A sexy, scintillating sensual erotic romance!! It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of the Submissive Series and the cast of characters. When I found out that Tara Sue Me was doing a novella on Sasha and Cole, I practically squealed out of excitement. How could I not be when you have a sexy domineering Brit and a strong heroine rediscovering and taking back her sexuality and confidence. And so in this novella aptly titled The Claiming readers are thrown into a whirlwind where sexual fantasies, kink, and romance are in full effect as Cole and Sasha claim and proclaim their love and devotion to one another.
Cole just bought back his family home in the UK and so he decides to bring Sasha and their friends along. At his family home, readers can see and feel the intense connection of Sasha and Cole. Their relationship and love is rock solid even though there might be one of Cole’s ex who is still hung up on him and tries to cock-block any chance that she gets. But other than that, Cole and Sasha’s appetite for sex is heightened as they explore their love. So if you are ready to sit back and reunite with our favorite Masters and their partners in the British countryside then this novella is definitely for you.
Tara Sue Me
A sexy, scintillating sensual erotic romance!! It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of the Submissive Series and the cast of characters. When I found out that Tara Sue Me was doing a novella on Sasha and Cole, I practically squealed out of excitement. How could I not be when you have a sexy domineering Brit and a strong heroine rediscovering and taking back her sexuality and confidence. And so in this novella aptly titled The Claiming readers are thrown into a whirlwind where sexual fantasies, kink, and romance are in full effect as Cole and Sasha claim and proclaim their love and devotion to one another.
Cole just bought back his family home in the UK and so he decides to bring Sasha and their friends along. At his family home, readers can see and feel the intense connection of Sasha and Cole. Their relationship and love is rock solid even though there might be one of Cole’s ex who is still hung up on him and tries to cock-block any chance that she gets. But other than that, Cole and Sasha’s appetite for sex is heightened as they explore their love. So if you are ready to sit back and reunite with our favorite Masters and their partners in the British countryside then this novella is definitely for you.
Tara Sue Me
September 8, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2cjWNux
I've been a fan of Tara Sue Me for a while now and was curious to see how she would handle a novella and damn. Just damn. Absolutely beautiful. The Claiming was funny, sexy, and completely enchanting. I loved every second of it and couldn't stop smiling as I flipped the last page.
The quick of it is that Cole and Sasha have been together for a little while now but sometimes insecurities pop up and Cole's decided he needs to show Sasha once and for all how very much she means to him. And he goes about it in an elaborate way.... a house party at his childhood home in the UK complete with one amazing surprise and a number of their closest friends.
This was really so much fun. I love house parties in historicals so one set in present day? And kinkified? Omg...yes, please! It was a blast spending time with not only Cole and Sasha (who I adore) but two of the other series couples as they flirt and play--think kinkified croquet? pervy mystery role playing? Super sexy and totally sweet. I loved watching Cole and Sasha's bond grow even stronger and, yeah, I totally teared up once the surprise he planned was revealed at the party. Swoonage, yall. Swoonage. It was insanely hot, too. These two are into BDSM with a leaning towards Master/slave dynamic but there's nothing too extreme for those who aren't into serious BDSM.
All in all, I just had a wonderful time with The Claiming. It's everything I expect from Tara Sue Me...a beautiful story of romance, passion, and acceptance. I would suggest reading the rest of the series before this one since Sasha and Cole's main story has already been told and knowing what they've gone through will make this all the sweeter.
*My only issue is the cost. I do think it's rather pricey (3.99) for a short read (12 chapters) that ends at the 80% ebook mark.
September 18, 2016
A great follow up story…
This hot and melty series is about boundaries and control (in only the best of ways), sacrifice and loyalty, and how it all comes together in the messiness of love and life. If you haven’t read Sasha and Cole’s full story in The Master then you are missing out (AKA you should go do that now)…
“If sin was a sound, it’d be that insanely sexy voice of yours.”
Following a group of friends and lovers in their trials and tribulations in love, this novella brings almost the whole gang together again. Sasha and Cole are in a good place and reading how solid and strong they are was music to my ears (eyes?).
Sasha started from such a dark, frightful place. Cole brought her into the light in so many ways, both of them growing, together. They went through the ringer to get here, and seeing them happy and secure with each other made my heart happy. It’s not to say that they don’t have challenges—things are not smooth sailing ever, are they? The difference is they are ready to face whatever comes their way, together…
This story may be a quick read but it is full of emotion, hot steamy scenes and the warmth of family and friendship. Whether a flogger or a kiss, or perhaps a hug, love takes many forms here and they are all fantastic! ~ Diane, 4 stars
This hot and melty series is about boundaries and control (in only the best of ways), sacrifice and loyalty, and how it all comes together in the messiness of love and life. If you haven’t read Sasha and Cole’s full story in The Master then you are missing out (AKA you should go do that now)…
“If sin was a sound, it’d be that insanely sexy voice of yours.”
Following a group of friends and lovers in their trials and tribulations in love, this novella brings almost the whole gang together again. Sasha and Cole are in a good place and reading how solid and strong they are was music to my ears (eyes?).
Sasha started from such a dark, frightful place. Cole brought her into the light in so many ways, both of them growing, together. They went through the ringer to get here, and seeing them happy and secure with each other made my heart happy. It’s not to say that they don’t have challenges—things are not smooth sailing ever, are they? The difference is they are ready to face whatever comes their way, together…
This story may be a quick read but it is full of emotion, hot steamy scenes and the warmth of family and friendship. Whether a flogger or a kiss, or perhaps a hug, love takes many forms here and they are all fantastic! ~ Diane, 4 stars
February 14, 2018
It's a great novella and I loved how Cole presented her new collar. I just not so much a fan of novellas they leave me wanting more.
July 2, 2020
The story of Cole and Sasha continues.
Role playing as master and maid, ex-GF dismissing Sasha, and taking vows to claim one another as Dom-Sub for like, evah.
Happy caning for life to this couple.
September 23, 2016
More Reviews Here: Readers Live A Thousand Lives
I’ve been reading this series for a while now and I’m always surprised by how it continues to deliver. This was a fun and steamy little novella that I devoured in a few short hours. It is a nice addition to the series and even though it is short it adds to the characters development and moves the overall story along.
It was so nice seeing how far Cole and Sasha have come. They started out so unlikely and they have become such a strong couple. Their chemistry is fantastic and it’s so great seeing them together. I also liked catching up with Abby and Nathaniel and Julie and Daniel again. This is such a great group of characters and I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of them.
All in all, The Claiming was a really quick and fun read and is a nice little treat for fans of the series. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next installment now.
I’ve been reading this series for a while now and I’m always surprised by how it continues to deliver. This was a fun and steamy little novella that I devoured in a few short hours. It is a nice addition to the series and even though it is short it adds to the characters development and moves the overall story along.
It was so nice seeing how far Cole and Sasha have come. They started out so unlikely and they have become such a strong couple. Their chemistry is fantastic and it’s so great seeing them together. I also liked catching up with Abby and Nathaniel and Julie and Daniel again. This is such a great group of characters and I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of them.
All in all, The Claiming was a really quick and fun read and is a nice little treat for fans of the series. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next installment now.
September 20, 2016
A little over a year ago, I first started reading Tara Sue Me's Submissive Series, and quickly worked my way through all of the released books, loving the wonderful cast of characters and well written plots involving BDSM. The Claiming is a newly released novella that focuses on Sasha and Cole, who we met in The Master, but also gives us some page time with all of our other beloved Partners in Play members.
In The Master, Sasha was dealing with the physical and emotion scars left by Peter and after an extended time away from Partners in Play, she returns. Cole is enlisted to retrain her and he makes it clear from day one that he is simply training her for a new Master and their will be no sex or emotional connection. He'll be stepping back once he's completed the task he has set out to accomplish. Of course, as one can imagine, that does not go to plan and soon these two are so enmeshed in each other's lives and hearts there is no way Cole can pass her off to another Master.
I fell quite in love with Sasha and Cole in the previous book and was so excited to find out there was a new novella being released that would further tell their story. In The Claiming, Cole and Sasha head off to the UK where Cole has planned several wondeful (and some kinky) surprises for Sasha and plans to ask her a very important question. Their friends from Partners in Play are along for the adventure and this novella was filled with wonderfully amusing, touching and heart-felt moments. It also sets us up for the next full-length novel in the series, The Exposure, which I'm anxious to read. This was another well done story in a fabulously well written BDSM series. I highly recommend it, though do suggest you read at least The Master first, and if at all possible, all the previous books in the series to help you better appreciate all of the characters.
In The Master, Sasha was dealing with the physical and emotion scars left by Peter and after an extended time away from Partners in Play, she returns. Cole is enlisted to retrain her and he makes it clear from day one that he is simply training her for a new Master and their will be no sex or emotional connection. He'll be stepping back once he's completed the task he has set out to accomplish. Of course, as one can imagine, that does not go to plan and soon these two are so enmeshed in each other's lives and hearts there is no way Cole can pass her off to another Master.
I fell quite in love with Sasha and Cole in the previous book and was so excited to find out there was a new novella being released that would further tell their story. In The Claiming, Cole and Sasha head off to the UK where Cole has planned several wondeful (and some kinky) surprises for Sasha and plans to ask her a very important question. Their friends from Partners in Play are along for the adventure and this novella was filled with wonderfully amusing, touching and heart-felt moments. It also sets us up for the next full-length novel in the series, The Exposure, which I'm anxious to read. This was another well done story in a fabulously well written BDSM series. I highly recommend it, though do suggest you read at least The Master first, and if at all possible, all the previous books in the series to help you better appreciate all of the characters.
September 8, 2016
"I'm going to pleasure you so much, you'll never want to dream again because sleep only means you're separated from me."
When I discovered that this was another instalment to Sasha and Cole's story, I couldn't wait to read it. I fell in love with the couple in their previous book and I was well in favour of more from this passionate pair. This novella was the perfect combination of steamy sex and swoon-worthy romance. I loved everything that happened in this addition to one of my favourite series. As always, the other couples played a part in this short story and I enjoyed catching up with them. If you have been following this series, I highly recommend adding this to your collection. You won't be disappointed.
"She could stay in his arms forever, there was nowhere else she'd rather be."
When I discovered that this was another instalment to Sasha and Cole's story, I couldn't wait to read it. I fell in love with the couple in their previous book and I was well in favour of more from this passionate pair. This novella was the perfect combination of steamy sex and swoon-worthy romance. I loved everything that happened in this addition to one of my favourite series. As always, the other couples played a part in this short story and I enjoyed catching up with them. If you have been following this series, I highly recommend adding this to your collection. You won't be disappointed.
"She could stay in his arms forever, there was nowhere else she'd rather be."
October 26, 2019
Cole ve Sasha'nın Cole'ün çocukluk evine olan ziyaretlerini içeren güzel kısacık bir novellaydı ve oldukça sevdiğimi söyleyebilirim.
Fritz'in (umarım adını doğru yazmışımdır) Kate'e yıllardır aşık olduğu ile ilgili kısımda bir "Oğlum o senin yengen yengen!" olmadım değil hani ama onların hikayesini de merakla okuyacağım tabii. Sadece Marry Catherine karakterinin gereksizliği canımı sıktı okurken, o olmasa da hikaye aynı şekilde devam ederdi yani. Ama ilerleyen kitaplarda bahsi geçecek bir karakter olabilir, ne kadar ben aksini düşünsem de bu nedenle çok da fazla bahsedicek bir şey yok bu konuda.
Sırada sonunda Luke ve Meagan var, yıllardır bekliyormuş gibi hissediyorum onların hikayesini. Bu nedenle bu incelemeyi burada bırakıp hemen The Exposure'a başlamaya gidiyorum.
Fritz'in (umarım adını doğru yazmışımdır) Kate'e yıllardır aşık olduğu ile ilgili kısımda bir "Oğlum o senin yengen yengen!" olmadım değil hani ama onların hikayesini de merakla okuyacağım tabii. Sadece Marry Catherine karakterinin gereksizliği canımı sıktı okurken, o olmasa da hikaye aynı şekilde devam ederdi yani. Ama ilerleyen kitaplarda bahsi geçecek bir karakter olabilir, ne kadar ben aksini düşünsem de bu nedenle çok da fazla bahsedicek bir şey yok bu konuda.
Sırada sonunda Luke ve Meagan var, yıllardır bekliyormuş gibi hissediyorum onların hikayesini. Bu nedenle bu incelemeyi burada bırakıp hemen The Exposure'a başlamaya gidiyorum.
September 7, 2016
Read/reviewed for Romance Readers Retreat Book Blog.
May 20, 2022
Finally got around to reading this novella after finishing the main series a few years ago now! I absolutely love the submissive series and all the characters! Sasha and Cole are one of my favorite couples so it was nice to catch up with them again 😊💜
November 9, 2025
mhm, Cole and Sasha have never let me down 😩💙
September 20, 2016
3.75 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 20, 2016
Submitting is just the beginning...
Sasha Blake never thought her emotional wounds would heal—that they were a part of her just like her physical scars. But that was before Cole Johnson’s boundless love and overwhelmingly sexy control set her free, unleashing a confident side that she never knew she had. He’s more than just her Master; he’s her world. And she’ll do anything he asks...
Cole’s days of restless wandering are done—he’s found everything he needs in Sasha. Now, it’s time to make it official. When his childhood home in England goes up for sale, he realizes the old estate is the perfect place to claim Sasha as his own, and the ideal opportunity to show her just how much she means to him.
As Sasha, Cole, and their closest friends from their Partners in Play community descend on the British countryside for a titillating adult vacation, the submissives and Dominants alike will test their boundaries—and have an adventure none of them will ever forget...
•••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars---THE CLAIMING is a novella length installment in Tara Sue Me’s contemporary adult The Submissive erotic, romance series focusing on a group of Dominants, and the submissives they love. THE CLAIMING is the continuing story of Dom Cole Johnson, and his submissive Sasha Blake.
SOME BACKGROUND: Months earlier Sasha was bloodied and scarred following a submission lesson that went horribly wrong. Cole Johnson stepped in and built back the trust she lost long ago.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Sasha and Cole) THE CLAIMING follows Cole and Sasha as Cole returns to his childhood home in the UK, and his plans for an official claiming ceremony to make Sasha his own.
Two of the previous story line couples return to witness Cole and Sasha’s claiming: Nathaniel and Abby, as well as Julie and Daniel. We are reintroduced to Cole’s mentor in the BDSM community Fritz Brose, a man who has more than a passing interest in Cole’s former submissive Kate. The conflict comes from an outside source when Cole’s childhood friend hopes for a chance with the man she hasn’t seen in several years but for all intents and purposes this particular part of the story was a distraction to the original premise.
THE CLAIMING is a quick read: a sexy and fun story with a happily ever after for a woman whose trust and soul had been broken months before. Cole is a man whose Dominant tendencies soften when it comes to the woman he loves knowing that to break the will means to break the heart as well. The $ex scenes are graphic, intimate, erotic, and intense. The premise is intoxicating; the characters are dynamic; the romance is provocative and passionate. THE CLAIMING is a playful and energetic story where a courageous woman is claimed by the man that she loves.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 20, 2016
Submitting is just the beginning...
Sasha Blake never thought her emotional wounds would heal—that they were a part of her just like her physical scars. But that was before Cole Johnson’s boundless love and overwhelmingly sexy control set her free, unleashing a confident side that she never knew she had. He’s more than just her Master; he’s her world. And she’ll do anything he asks...
Cole’s days of restless wandering are done—he’s found everything he needs in Sasha. Now, it’s time to make it official. When his childhood home in England goes up for sale, he realizes the old estate is the perfect place to claim Sasha as his own, and the ideal opportunity to show her just how much she means to him.
As Sasha, Cole, and their closest friends from their Partners in Play community descend on the British countryside for a titillating adult vacation, the submissives and Dominants alike will test their boundaries—and have an adventure none of them will ever forget...
•••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars---THE CLAIMING is a novella length installment in Tara Sue Me’s contemporary adult The Submissive erotic, romance series focusing on a group of Dominants, and the submissives they love. THE CLAIMING is the continuing story of Dom Cole Johnson, and his submissive Sasha Blake.
SOME BACKGROUND: Months earlier Sasha was bloodied and scarred following a submission lesson that went horribly wrong. Cole Johnson stepped in and built back the trust she lost long ago.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Sasha and Cole) THE CLAIMING follows Cole and Sasha as Cole returns to his childhood home in the UK, and his plans for an official claiming ceremony to make Sasha his own.
Two of the previous story line couples return to witness Cole and Sasha’s claiming: Nathaniel and Abby, as well as Julie and Daniel. We are reintroduced to Cole’s mentor in the BDSM community Fritz Brose, a man who has more than a passing interest in Cole’s former submissive Kate. The conflict comes from an outside source when Cole’s childhood friend hopes for a chance with the man she hasn’t seen in several years but for all intents and purposes this particular part of the story was a distraction to the original premise.
THE CLAIMING is a quick read: a sexy and fun story with a happily ever after for a woman whose trust and soul had been broken months before. Cole is a man whose Dominant tendencies soften when it comes to the woman he loves knowing that to break the will means to break the heart as well. The $ex scenes are graphic, intimate, erotic, and intense. The premise is intoxicating; the characters are dynamic; the romance is provocative and passionate. THE CLAIMING is a playful and energetic story where a courageous woman is claimed by the man that she loves.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
September 21, 2016
Title: The Claiming
Author: Tara Sue Me
Publisher/Year: Penguin Publishing 9/20/16
Length: 88 Pages
Series: The Submissive Series #8.5
Overview
Submitting is just the beginning...
Sasha Blake never thought her emotional wounds would heal—that they were a part of her just like her physical scars. But that was before Cole Johnson’s boundless love and overwhelmingly sexy control set her free, unleashing a confident side that she never knew she had. He’s more than just her Master; he’s her world. And she’ll do anything he asks...
Cole’s days of restless wandering are done—he’s found everything he needs in Sasha. Now, it’s time to make it official. When his childhood home in England goes up for sale, he realizes the old estate is the perfect place to claim Sasha as his own, and the ideal opportunity to show her just how much she means to him.
As Sasha, Cole, and their closest friends from their Partners in Play community descend on the British countryside for a titillating adult vacation, the submissives and Dominants alike will test their boundaries—and have an adventure none of them will ever forget...
My Thoughts
We read the full length installment of how Cole and Sasha came together - she was recovering from a brutal scene from months ago and Cole was chosen to see if he could re acclimate her to the lifestyle. little did anyone expect that they would grow from a D/s mentoring relationship to something more.
What we have in this novella is a continuation of their story. Sasha and Cole are going to the UK where Cole has just purchased his childhood home. It of course puts Sasha a bit off balance as she's concerned that maybe it means that he wants to move to the UK, but it's something they will work through together if need be.
Cole invites a few other couples, Abby/Nathaniel and Julie/Daniel to go with them and what we get is a fun filled few days of playing in the English countryside. While we all enjoy fun and games, and some great BDSM scening, there's always a crimp in things and this time it comes in the form of Mary Catherine, a girl who Cole kissed when he was 13, and a girl who has jealousy issues.
It's rather entertaining to see how that all plays out since there's no lack of trust or security between Sasha and Cole. Abby takes it upon herself to lay it all out for MC and it's really quite the scene there.
I think that the overall culmination of this trip is so sweet and heartfelt that it makes you want to read more in the coming installments to this series since i feel like it's never going to end. We've met Fritz, the man who taught Cole all that he knows and i think there's a good story there. There's also the constant reminder of kate which makes me think that there's going to be more as well. The teaser for the next book due out in a month gives us a new character still but i think that it's going to be just as steamy, passionate and complex as all the others.
Author: Tara Sue Me
Publisher/Year: Penguin Publishing 9/20/16
Length: 88 Pages
Series: The Submissive Series #8.5
Overview
Submitting is just the beginning...
Sasha Blake never thought her emotional wounds would heal—that they were a part of her just like her physical scars. But that was before Cole Johnson’s boundless love and overwhelmingly sexy control set her free, unleashing a confident side that she never knew she had. He’s more than just her Master; he’s her world. And she’ll do anything he asks...
Cole’s days of restless wandering are done—he’s found everything he needs in Sasha. Now, it’s time to make it official. When his childhood home in England goes up for sale, he realizes the old estate is the perfect place to claim Sasha as his own, and the ideal opportunity to show her just how much she means to him.
As Sasha, Cole, and their closest friends from their Partners in Play community descend on the British countryside for a titillating adult vacation, the submissives and Dominants alike will test their boundaries—and have an adventure none of them will ever forget...
My Thoughts
We read the full length installment of how Cole and Sasha came together - she was recovering from a brutal scene from months ago and Cole was chosen to see if he could re acclimate her to the lifestyle. little did anyone expect that they would grow from a D/s mentoring relationship to something more.
What we have in this novella is a continuation of their story. Sasha and Cole are going to the UK where Cole has just purchased his childhood home. It of course puts Sasha a bit off balance as she's concerned that maybe it means that he wants to move to the UK, but it's something they will work through together if need be.
Cole invites a few other couples, Abby/Nathaniel and Julie/Daniel to go with them and what we get is a fun filled few days of playing in the English countryside. While we all enjoy fun and games, and some great BDSM scening, there's always a crimp in things and this time it comes in the form of Mary Catherine, a girl who Cole kissed when he was 13, and a girl who has jealousy issues.
It's rather entertaining to see how that all plays out since there's no lack of trust or security between Sasha and Cole. Abby takes it upon herself to lay it all out for MC and it's really quite the scene there.
I think that the overall culmination of this trip is so sweet and heartfelt that it makes you want to read more in the coming installments to this series since i feel like it's never going to end. We've met Fritz, the man who taught Cole all that he knows and i think there's a good story there. There's also the constant reminder of kate which makes me think that there's going to be more as well. The teaser for the next book due out in a month gives us a new character still but i think that it's going to be just as steamy, passionate and complex as all the others.
September 4, 2016
"The Claiming" by Tara Sue Me is the follow-up novella to The Master, the conclusion of Cole and Sasha’s story.
Sasha is the best friend and business partner of Julie, a fellow member of the Partners in Play group. In fact, Sasha is the one who encouraged Julie to explore her submissive side with Daniel, a senior Dominant in the group.
After a horrifying D/s experience with Peter put Sasha in the hospital, the submissive walked away from the Partners in Play group, afraid to continue participating in the lifestyle any longer.
After nearly a year away, however, Sasha begins feeling the pull of her submissive tendencies, and considers returning to the group. With the encouragement and support of Julie, Dena, Abby and Kelly, her friends in the group, Cole Johnson – Master Johnson – is selected by the senior Dominants to oversee Sasha’s retraining. Cole isn’t looking for a new sub. In fact, he’s still reeling from a devastating break-up with Kate, his submissive of many years.
Sasha’s retraining is just that: re-training. No emotion. Just training. In fact, Cole stresses, there will be no sex. It isn’t crucial to her training anyway. This is merely Sasha’s opportunity to identify her limits and prepare her to re-join the group, and perhaps even eventually find a new Master to serve. "The Master" is the story of Sasha’s retraining. It’s also of Cole’s story. We see him both as the Badass Brit all the subs are talking about, and the tender and protective Master that only Sasha knows.
"The Claiming" brings the couple to the UK where Master Johnson has brought Sasha for a surprise – several surprises, actually. Their friends Nathanial and Abby, and Daniel and Julie join them as Cole prepares to ask Sasha what will likely become the most important question Sasha has ever had to answer.
I have been faithfully following this series from the beginning, and it’s now eight books strong, with the ninth book, "The Exposure," due to release later this year. The story of each of the Partners in Play couples has captivated and entertained me. As suggested in the titles, the series explores the world of BDSM, but in both a realistic and compelling way. The author gives her readers a candid look into the lifestyle, while also developing personal and emotional aspects of their relationships that leave me wishing these characters were real.
I am such a fan of this author. Her descriptive writing is flawless, and I love the characters she has created in this series. I find myself hoping that will introduce new Partners so the stories don't stop.
Sasha is the best friend and business partner of Julie, a fellow member of the Partners in Play group. In fact, Sasha is the one who encouraged Julie to explore her submissive side with Daniel, a senior Dominant in the group.
After a horrifying D/s experience with Peter put Sasha in the hospital, the submissive walked away from the Partners in Play group, afraid to continue participating in the lifestyle any longer.
After nearly a year away, however, Sasha begins feeling the pull of her submissive tendencies, and considers returning to the group. With the encouragement and support of Julie, Dena, Abby and Kelly, her friends in the group, Cole Johnson – Master Johnson – is selected by the senior Dominants to oversee Sasha’s retraining. Cole isn’t looking for a new sub. In fact, he’s still reeling from a devastating break-up with Kate, his submissive of many years.
Sasha’s retraining is just that: re-training. No emotion. Just training. In fact, Cole stresses, there will be no sex. It isn’t crucial to her training anyway. This is merely Sasha’s opportunity to identify her limits and prepare her to re-join the group, and perhaps even eventually find a new Master to serve. "The Master" is the story of Sasha’s retraining. It’s also of Cole’s story. We see him both as the Badass Brit all the subs are talking about, and the tender and protective Master that only Sasha knows.
"The Claiming" brings the couple to the UK where Master Johnson has brought Sasha for a surprise – several surprises, actually. Their friends Nathanial and Abby, and Daniel and Julie join them as Cole prepares to ask Sasha what will likely become the most important question Sasha has ever had to answer.
I have been faithfully following this series from the beginning, and it’s now eight books strong, with the ninth book, "The Exposure," due to release later this year. The story of each of the Partners in Play couples has captivated and entertained me. As suggested in the titles, the series explores the world of BDSM, but in both a realistic and compelling way. The author gives her readers a candid look into the lifestyle, while also developing personal and emotional aspects of their relationships that leave me wishing these characters were real.
I am such a fan of this author. Her descriptive writing is flawless, and I love the characters she has created in this series. I find myself hoping that will introduce new Partners so the stories don't stop.
September 16, 2016
In The Claiming, a novella to The Submissive Series, boundaries are tested with kink and limits, sprinkled with love and compassion. This companion to the intense love story between Cole Johnson and Sasha Blake, is the icing to the delectable cupcake that has become The Partners in Play. The M/s dynamic is explored in an incredible way that illustrates perfectly just how this type of relationship is the glue needed to get through the day to day for some couples. This captivating excerpt brings a facet of the BDSM lifestyle to the forefront, once again emphasizing that this type of relationship isn't about the pain, its actually about the trust and the beauty in its simplicity. Master Johnson takes a broken, splintered soul, picks up the pieces, puts her back together, leaving her a profoundly stronger version of herself. Love is love, no matter what version of that story works for you.
~Jenn This review was originally posted on The Book Avenue
~Jenn This review was originally posted on The Book Avenue
September 13, 2016
Sasha and Cole are in a Dom/sub relationship. She has many emotional scars that Cole has been successfully helping her through with his love and control over her. He can read her like a book! She will try anything for him because she can trust him and knows that he will pay close attention to her.
Cole is so in love with Sasha. He never thought he could have a relationship with anyone like her. She is the Ying to his Yang. His childhood home goes up for sale and an idea forms in his head about surprising Sasha with friends, to make her his forever. Their friends were amazing and I enjoyed their little "maze" outing!
Sasha and Cole were two very likeable characters and were very sweet and in tune with each other. I loved how he always knew when she was bording on the edge of panic. I thought he handled himself well when he ex(s) showed up back in his life and was quick to reassure Sasha that they were in the past where they would stay. This was a quick, sexy, funny and suspenseful read!
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
Cole is so in love with Sasha. He never thought he could have a relationship with anyone like her. She is the Ying to his Yang. His childhood home goes up for sale and an idea forms in his head about surprising Sasha with friends, to make her his forever. Their friends were amazing and I enjoyed their little "maze" outing!
Sasha and Cole were two very likeable characters and were very sweet and in tune with each other. I loved how he always knew when she was bording on the edge of panic. I thought he handled himself well when he ex(s) showed up back in his life and was quick to reassure Sasha that they were in the past where they would stay. This was a quick, sexy, funny and suspenseful read!
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
November 24, 2016
In The Claiming, a novella to The Submissive Series, boundaries are tested with kink and limits, and sprinkled with love and compassion. This companion to the intense love story between Cole Johnson and Sasha Blake, is the icing to the delectable cupcake that has become The Partners in Play. The M/s dynamic is explored in an incredible way that illustrates perfectly just how this type of relationship is the glue needed to get through the day to day for some couples. This captivating excerpt brings a facet of the BDSM lifestyle to the forefront, once again emphasizing that this type of relationship isn't about the pain, its actually about the trust and the beauty in its simplicity. Master Johnson takes a broken, splintered soul, picks up the pieces, puts her back together, leaving her a profoundly stronger version of herself. Love is love, no matter what version of that story works for you.
~ Jenn
~ Jenn
August 23, 2016
This was another amazing book in The Submissive Series. This novella has everything I could ever want from a book by Tara Sue Me. There were times I laughed out loud, was swooning from the sweetness of it all, and had tears in my eyes from the beautiful words expressed within the book. Nathaniel and Abby have always been my favorite couple but Cole and Sasha are quickly moving to the top of that list.
Sasha knows she is important to Cole but he realizes she doesn't know exactly what she means to him. So he is determined to show and tell her exactly how he feels.
I loved this book because we get to see not only Cole & Sasha but Nathaniel & Abby as well as Daniel & Julia. We always see the guys in their Dom roles but it was a wonderful change to see them lighten up a bit and have some fun.
I can't wait to see what amazing adventure Tara brings us next.
Sasha knows she is important to Cole but he realizes she doesn't know exactly what she means to him. So he is determined to show and tell her exactly how he feels.
I loved this book because we get to see not only Cole & Sasha but Nathaniel & Abby as well as Daniel & Julia. We always see the guys in their Dom roles but it was a wonderful change to see them lighten up a bit and have some fun.
I can't wait to see what amazing adventure Tara brings us next.
October 4, 2016
Sasha has some serious physical and emotional scars from her past to get over and Cole seems to sense that. Cole has grown in leaps and bounds since he began and Sasha is lucky they found each other. Sasha is still slightly doubting that Cole wants only her so he decides to plan a little getaway with their friends at his childhood home he just bought. He tells Sasha they are going to play lord and servant for their friends but they will spend a little bit of time alone before anyone gets there. Of course they are not completely alone which adds to the stress and when the friends arrive Sasha still worries about things but Cole is still trying to put her mind at ease.
It was really sweet to see how dedicated they are to each other and if either one of them crumble when confronted. Good story great ending
Reviewed on behalf of Once upon an Alpha
It was really sweet to see how dedicated they are to each other and if either one of them crumble when confronted. Good story great ending
Reviewed on behalf of Once upon an Alpha
December 29, 2016
A very good novella by this author that has written a series of books about a group of people involved in the BDSM scene. Each couple is comprised of a Dom/submissive. Each couple have their own unique method of addressing the D/s scene while married with children or like the couple with a newly trained submissive and a long term master and finally a long term Dom and the submissive who have come together after each of them had very negative prior relationships. The previous books have delved into the couples relationships and how they deal with their own unique relationships and so this novella brings them all back together for another step in the relationship between Sasha Blake and her Dom, Cole Johnson. Loved return back to these couples and the love they share.
August 21, 2016
Having read every book written by this author I could not wait to start this new book. Sasha and Cole have been in previous books so I was so pleased to read more about them , this story is beautiful and brought tears to my eyes , every woman needs a man like Cole in their life and made to feel loved and cherished, I adore the relationship between these character they have been through so much and have come out stronger for it. As always it's was lovely to have the appearance of other characters too Abby and Nathaniel and Julie and Daniel and the little mention of Jeff and Dena. I can't not wait to read the next book in this series
August 27, 2016
A scorching tale of love and trust!
Sasha and Cole are back, as well as some of your other favorite Submissive series couples in this treat of a novella. Cole takes Sasha away for a getaway when his childhood home becomes available in England. What ensues is passionate, sexy, and heartwarming. I love this series, and this addition makes you fall in love with the usually serious Cole, and the free-spirited Sasha. Tara Sue Me is able to evoke such emotion in her tales, and you will fall in love with The Claiming just as I have. I can't wait to see what comes next!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for a copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Sasha and Cole are back, as well as some of your other favorite Submissive series couples in this treat of a novella. Cole takes Sasha away for a getaway when his childhood home becomes available in England. What ensues is passionate, sexy, and heartwarming. I love this series, and this addition makes you fall in love with the usually serious Cole, and the free-spirited Sasha. Tara Sue Me is able to evoke such emotion in her tales, and you will fall in love with The Claiming just as I have. I can't wait to see what comes next!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for a copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2016
This book was so sweet! The love and chemistry that the two main characters have for each other is amazing. There are some steamy scenes however what are you expecting from a book by Tara Sue Me? However the sex scenes are brilliantly done and still maintain the dom/submissive relationship without undermining anyones free will (like a certain book that everyone loves, not that I'm naming any names *cough* 50 shades *cough*).
I really did enjoy seeing the continuation of the characters and how they have continued to develop, learn and trust each other throughout the relationship.
To read more of this review visit my blog at: https://bookgeek2015.wordpress.com/
I really did enjoy seeing the continuation of the characters and how they have continued to develop, learn and trust each other throughout the relationship.
To read more of this review visit my blog at: https://bookgeek2015.wordpress.com/
August 16, 2016
The Claiming is apart of the Submissive Series, must be read in order and this is about Sasha and Cole. You have had their story and their HEA but in the Claiming this is all about Cole collaring her the official right and beautiful way.
It's a BDSM series but Tara has a way of pulling you in the story and wishing for your very own Dom. The characters have a lot of depth, just giving you all the feels.
I can't wait for more!
Story 4
Sexy 4
Overall 4
Reviewed by Shay from Mommys a Book Whore
It's a BDSM series but Tara has a way of pulling you in the story and wishing for your very own Dom. The characters have a lot of depth, just giving you all the feels.
I can't wait for more!
Story 4
Sexy 4
Overall 4
Reviewed by Shay from Mommys a Book Whore
September 20, 2016
I love the Submissive series, and The Claiming is no different. After seeing Cole helping Sasha heal, it was great to see how their relationship progressed and them interacting with the other couples from the partners in play group.
Read
January 28, 2022Tara Sue Me continues to break the stereotypes of BDSM relationships without losing the kinky-thrill of the sexual connections. The Claiming is a short novella and a fantastic treat for fans of The Submissive Series. The book includes a bit of playful role play in an exotic castle. But the best part, is the smart, quick-witted responses of three very strong and articulate submissives. The author shatters the concept that submissives are weak. As the play continues, the Dominants’ need for privacy is HOT. What happens under the table, stays under the table. I figure it is the corollary to the Las Vegas principle.
If you haven’t read the rest of the series … 1. READ THE SERIES!!! 2.then read this book (you might not appreciate the characters as much without having read the rest of the series).
If you haven’t read the rest of the series … 1. READ THE SERIES!!! 2.then read this book (you might not appreciate the characters as much without having read the rest of the series).
October 7, 2017
Bar none, Sasha and Cole are my favorite couple in this series. So to have a novella devoted to more about them? Oh yeah, I was on board.
I just love Sasha's newfound strength and how she's overcome so much. And Cole has such a soft side about him when it comes to her. It's amazing and so sweet to read.
It was nice that this gave us more of what happened next. It felt like more of a taste of it than anything else (and I would seriously be thrilled if there was another book that focused on them, but I think that's probably unlikely. Unfortunately.) but I was happy to have something.
I just love Sasha's newfound strength and how she's overcome so much. And Cole has such a soft side about him when it comes to her. It's amazing and so sweet to read.
It was nice that this gave us more of what happened next. It felt like more of a taste of it than anything else (and I would seriously be thrilled if there was another book that focused on them, but I think that's probably unlikely. Unfortunately.) but I was happy to have something.
February 11, 2018
Sasha found her true Dom and she wanted to be his submissive forever but she never got the collar that proved she was his.
When they went back to England for him to show her his home that he bough that he lived in during his childhood. He had a surprise for her.
But his old girlfriend from school came to try and take him back. But Sasha wasn't having none of it and neither was he.
He invited their friends from the Partners in Play group to the special occassion. Everyone had to keep it a secret from Sasha.
Would she enjoy the surprise?
When they went back to England for him to show her his home that he bough that he lived in during his childhood. He had a surprise for her.
But his old girlfriend from school came to try and take him back. But Sasha wasn't having none of it and neither was he.
He invited their friends from the Partners in Play group to the special occassion. Everyone had to keep it a secret from Sasha.
Would she enjoy the surprise?
November 30, 2021
A really quick read which I loved. The role playing was amazing and intense. I thought that there would be another engagement but the collaring ceremony was just as magical. The old ex girlfriend popping up was hysterical. The way cole and Sasha complete each other is all anyone could ask for. The maze run had me laughing so much. But what I love the most was how the 3 couples of bdsm came together as if it were a normal couples trip to take. I love cole and Sasha. Don’t want their story to end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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