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Club Volare #10
Trust An Even Hand
Charlene Bastien is a fighter. When her mother skipped town she worked to support herself, and when her father didn't want anything to do with her, well, she dealt with that too. And when her ex-husband -- her Dom -- turned out to be an abusive cheater, she got the hell out.
But not without some scars.
And Luke Logan knows all about scars. He wears his own as a reminder of the kind of man he'll never allow himself to be. But he's a Dom first and foremost, and that means protecting vulnerable subs.Especially subs who have been hurt so badly that they hide from who they really are. Charlene is the only woman who's ever touched his heart, and he'll repay that favor by showing her just how strong she really is--even if he has to tie her down to do it.
Just so long as she doesn't get any ideas. Luke Logan is not a Dom who settles down. And he's not a Dom who lets subs get too close--for their own protection.
But when Charlene's ex comes back to town, Luke knows his place is by her side, making sure that man never hurts her again. He's never known a woman like her before, and as the chemistry between them builds, he knows he'd walk through fire to protect her.
And he'll have to.
But as the heat between them builds into a roaring flame, can Luke protect her from the one thing he can't control -- his heart?
TRUST AN EVEN HAND is the tenth stand alone sugarkink romance in the Club Volare series. It's perfect for people who love their happily ever afters and like a lot of sugar with their kink. ;)
But not without some scars.
And Luke Logan knows all about scars. He wears his own as a reminder of the kind of man he'll never allow himself to be. But he's a Dom first and foremost, and that means protecting vulnerable subs.Especially subs who have been hurt so badly that they hide from who they really are. Charlene is the only woman who's ever touched his heart, and he'll repay that favor by showing her just how strong she really is--even if he has to tie her down to do it.
Just so long as she doesn't get any ideas. Luke Logan is not a Dom who settles down. And he's not a Dom who lets subs get too close--for their own protection.
But when Charlene's ex comes back to town, Luke knows his place is by her side, making sure that man never hurts her again. He's never known a woman like her before, and as the chemistry between them builds, he knows he'd walk through fire to protect her.
And he'll have to.
But as the heat between them builds into a roaring flame, can Luke protect her from the one thing he can't control -- his heart?
TRUST AN EVEN HAND is the tenth stand alone sugarkink romance in the Club Volare series. It's perfect for people who love their happily ever afters and like a lot of sugar with their kink. ;)
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2016
86 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Chloe Cox
40 books669 followersI have an overactive imagination and too much time on my hands, and the result is...well, lots of books! Which is probably better than the alternative. ;)
I love writing steamy and erotic romances, some dark, some light, but always about something that moves me. And, because I'm totally a sucker, love tends to win out. Everyone deserves a happy ending. :)
My contemporary BDSM erotic romance series, Club Volare, has hit the genre bestseller charts on Amazon a few times, which is just awesome. Right now there are two books, Sold to the Sheikh and Tied to the Tycoon, with a third, Disciplined by the Dom, due in February 2013. And I've also got this paranormal series in the very beginning stages of development that I'm super excited about. When I'm not writing those, I'm gonna be reading -- if you've got any good recs, send them my way!
And if you want to hear about those new releases when they come out, you can sign up for my New Releases list here (I *only* use it for that; I hate spam so much!).
Lots of love, and happy reading!!
x Chloe
I love writing steamy and erotic romances, some dark, some light, but always about something that moves me. And, because I'm totally a sucker, love tends to win out. Everyone deserves a happy ending. :)
My contemporary BDSM erotic romance series, Club Volare, has hit the genre bestseller charts on Amazon a few times, which is just awesome. Right now there are two books, Sold to the Sheikh and Tied to the Tycoon, with a third, Disciplined by the Dom, due in February 2013. And I've also got this paranormal series in the very beginning stages of development that I'm super excited about. When I'm not writing those, I'm gonna be reading -- if you've got any good recs, send them my way!
And if you want to hear about those new releases when they come out, you can sign up for my New Releases list here (I *only* use it for that; I hate spam so much!).
Lots of love, and happy reading!!
x Chloe
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 12, 2025
Trust An Even Hand (Club Volare, #10) by Chloe Cox
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Erotica, Romance.
3.5 Stars
Read Dec. 12th, 2016
I love Chloe Cox's Club Volare series, but this one didn't set me on fire.
I can't put my finger on what the missing ingredient for me is. I really liked both Luke and Charlene (Charlie). I enjoyed their story. It just seemed like the fire and passion was a bit subdued in this one.
I also felt like more could have been discovered and done about those plotting against Club Volare New Orleans.
I am sure a lot of her readers will enjoy it more than I did.
I was very ill at the time I read it, and that may have something to do with my perception.
So consider this rating and review with that in mind.
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Erotica, Romance.
3.5 Stars
Read Dec. 12th, 2016
I love Chloe Cox's Club Volare series, but this one didn't set me on fire.
I can't put my finger on what the missing ingredient for me is. I really liked both Luke and Charlene (Charlie). I enjoyed their story. It just seemed like the fire and passion was a bit subdued in this one.
I also felt like more could have been discovered and done about those plotting against Club Volare New Orleans.
I am sure a lot of her readers will enjoy it more than I did.
I was very ill at the time I read it, and that may have something to do with my perception.
So consider this rating and review with that in mind.
November 19, 2016
I love Chloe Cox books and was so happy to see a new Club Volare book, and this book didn't disappoint. It featured Charlene who we met in the last book, briefly, and Luke, a Dom who is asked by Gavin to look after Charlene because of issues with her ex. Charlene doesn't trust most people and certainly doesn't trust herself. She has an ex husband, a dom, who abused her and now she doesn't trust her judgement. The story was more predictable that many of the Club Volare books, and I will admit that emotionally I did not connect as deeply with this couple as I have with some of her previous couples. But, that in no way kept me from enjoying this book and being able to give it a great review. I am an independent reviewer with no perceived feelings except that I love all of the Club Volare books.
November 18, 2016
I think this might just be my favorite of the whole series. The raw emotion and the drama. Sex is hot too. Gives the reader a feel of what being in a past emotionally/physically abusive relationship effects you.
November 24, 2016
Chloe Cox writes erotic sexual chemistry like a BOSS!! She will have you melting your panties one second and then looking over your shoulder bc you never know what will happen next. Her work on the whole Club Volare series is one of a kind!! Definitely a series to read!
November 19, 2016
>Book review – Trust an Even Hand
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the newest in the Club Volare series and ends in an HEA. Charlene is a good friend to Gavin and Olivia, from the previous Club Volare book. Charlene is going to plan their wedding, but old Volare enemies are thwarting every step. Olivia is pregnant, which causes Gavin to overload on the Dom/Alpha thing. Gavin assigns his buddy Luke to help and watch out for Charlene as she gets the wedding going.
>Charlene and Luke have a huge attraction. Charlene’s ex-husband was an abusive Dom, causing her to fear the whole D/s scene, while feeling the attraction to Luke as a sub. The story is more than just the threats to the wedding and the attraction to Luke. Charlene learns to trust again. Luke is an awesome alpha Dom. He protects and ultimately loves Charlene, despite his background.
> This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving the story 5 stars. This is not a typical BDSM story. The journey that Charlene and Luke go through to learn to trust and love again was the main focus of this story.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the newest in the Club Volare series and ends in an HEA. Charlene is a good friend to Gavin and Olivia, from the previous Club Volare book. Charlene is going to plan their wedding, but old Volare enemies are thwarting every step. Olivia is pregnant, which causes Gavin to overload on the Dom/Alpha thing. Gavin assigns his buddy Luke to help and watch out for Charlene as she gets the wedding going.
>Charlene and Luke have a huge attraction. Charlene’s ex-husband was an abusive Dom, causing her to fear the whole D/s scene, while feeling the attraction to Luke as a sub. The story is more than just the threats to the wedding and the attraction to Luke. Charlene learns to trust again. Luke is an awesome alpha Dom. He protects and ultimately loves Charlene, despite his background.
> This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving the story 5 stars. This is not a typical BDSM story. The journey that Charlene and Luke go through to learn to trust and love again was the main focus of this story.
December 5, 2025
This story is very similar to #9. It starts with instant Dom/sub lust and I wish it hadn't. It's superficial. Luke is some growling hulk of a mega alpha Dom character with a gorgeous body. The first 50% is about how magnetic Luke is; his perfect body; his mesmerizing eyes; how she practically melts around him. She's helpless in his energy. Repetitive; OK, we get it.
He also doesn't want any kind of relationship commitment (like Gavin in #9). Charlene has major trust issues from her abusive ex-Dom. She fights the attraction to Luke; gives in; falls in love of course, just like Olivia in #9 & breaks Luke's no relationship rule. Just like #9, she leaves; he mopes badly; a friend gives him a 'wake up' talk; they reconcile. HEA.
He also doesn't want any kind of relationship commitment (like Gavin in #9). Charlene has major trust issues from her abusive ex-Dom. She fights the attraction to Luke; gives in; falls in love of course, just like Olivia in #9 & breaks Luke's no relationship rule. Just like #9, she leaves; he mopes badly; a friend gives him a 'wake up' talk; they reconcile. HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2016
Again a solid read from Ms Cox! A romance filled story of healing and forgiveness.
Luke was an interesting guy and very sexy! As always Ms Cox sure knows how to write an in depth lead character with masculinity and heart. I always love her heroes because they want to protect and love their women almost to a fault. Sexy as hell!
Charlene seems so out of sorts at the start, but as each page turns she gets stronger and stronger! She has a great journey throughout.
Not too much D/s scening. The tone and hotness was there, but it wasn't so much at the forefront of the story,
Great read!
Luke was an interesting guy and very sexy! As always Ms Cox sure knows how to write an in depth lead character with masculinity and heart. I always love her heroes because they want to protect and love their women almost to a fault. Sexy as hell!
Charlene seems so out of sorts at the start, but as each page turns she gets stronger and stronger! She has a great journey throughout.
Not too much D/s scening. The tone and hotness was there, but it wasn't so much at the forefront of the story,
Great read!
August 15, 2019
Very good and engaging story
A great story...a great big lead up to the point of passion and it’s explosive when it happens. Ms. Cox did an excellent job with keeping me on the edge of my seat. Great sexy scenes filled with a lot of love...one of my favorite lines in this book is, “ ...a man’s gait was like his fingerprint...” such a clever line...I will definitely be reading the next book in this series!
A great story...a great big lead up to the point of passion and it’s explosive when it happens. Ms. Cox did an excellent job with keeping me on the edge of my seat. Great sexy scenes filled with a lot of love...one of my favorite lines in this book is, “ ...a man’s gait was like his fingerprint...” such a clever line...I will definitely be reading the next book in this series!
June 13, 2018
Loved it
I absolutely loved everything about this book and I literally couldn't put it down and I didn't. Chloe Cox really knows how to suck you into a book and some hot sexy scenes. Luke and Charlene's story is one you don't want to miss. GREAT JOB CHLOE COX!!!!!!
I absolutely loved everything about this book and I literally couldn't put it down and I didn't. Chloe Cox really knows how to suck you into a book and some hot sexy scenes. Luke and Charlene's story is one you don't want to miss. GREAT JOB CHLOE COX!!!!!!
November 21, 2016
Hmmm
Not my favorite Chloe Cox book but a good fast read. Waiting for her next installment in the near future
Not my favorite Chloe Cox book but a good fast read. Waiting for her next installment in the near future
November 28, 2017
One of the best of the series. I really liked the connection between the main characters.
December 27, 2018
Love this!!
I have loved this series from the beginning. But this story just had so much going for it. I truly recommend every one read this book but also the series
I have loved this series from the beginning. But this story just had so much going for it. I truly recommend every one read this book but also the series
January 13, 2019
Too short!
Love the club volare books and only wish that I could be a character in one of them. Since that isn’t going to happen, I will keep enjoying the stories you write!
Love the club volare books and only wish that I could be a character in one of them. Since that isn’t going to happen, I will keep enjoying the stories you write!
January 29, 2020
It was an interesting read. Thought it was well written. The story flowed nicely. Also really great book to listen to. I'd recommend this book
March 2, 2024
Great Story!
The Dom/sub dynamic is phenomenal, book writes it perfectly. If you have never had a Dom, it is amazing, if you have a good one.
The Dom/sub dynamic is phenomenal, book writes it perfectly. If you have never had a Dom, it is amazing, if you have a good one.
November 19, 2016
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Let me start by saying that I live for new Chloe Cox books. It feels like Christmas and my birthday all rolled into one when I get that email telling me it has arrived. I have read everything she's written more than once and this book will be no exception.
That said, this is not my favorite and I was disappointed by a few things. One, the main storyline felt like a re-tread. We've done the whole 'awful ex comes back to wreak havoc" thing as well as the 'girl has bad dom experience so represses submissive side' before. Even Luke's struggle seemed too familiar. So many elements were too similar to TAKEN BY CHANCE, which was far better for me.
Two, the whole sabotage Volare plotline felt flat then was left unfinished and not in a way that felt intentional, like it will be picked up in the next book, though I am sure it will be. I'm just left with all these questions that weren't answered and can't be with the way this piece of the puzzle was wrapped up.
Three, there was not enough smut and what there was is certainly not dirty enough for me. I feel like the last few books have been watered down when it comes to the sex, which seems bizarre given that Club Volare is a BDSM club. TAKEN BY CHANCE and a few of her more risqué pieces may have ruined me because they were soooo good and smutty.
I know all of this sounds pretty harsh and I don't really mean for it to be, especially since I still loved it. Even with these flaws it's still a great read and far better than a lot of books out there. Chloe is a great writer. I love her characters, the way she writes them and their saucy exchanges. I love the family she creates of each Volare group. It's because I love her creations so much that I feel like I have to be more honest when they miss the mark. I also can't let my love of all things Chloe bias me when I would rip another author for the same things. So as much as I love the Volare stories, I really hope the Simone and Holt book is the last one. Chloe is so talented, I would love to see her move on to something fresh and not so formulaic.
Let me start by saying that I live for new Chloe Cox books. It feels like Christmas and my birthday all rolled into one when I get that email telling me it has arrived. I have read everything she's written more than once and this book will be no exception.
That said, this is not my favorite and I was disappointed by a few things. One, the main storyline felt like a re-tread. We've done the whole 'awful ex comes back to wreak havoc" thing as well as the 'girl has bad dom experience so represses submissive side' before. Even Luke's struggle seemed too familiar. So many elements were too similar to TAKEN BY CHANCE, which was far better for me.
Two, the whole sabotage Volare plotline felt flat then was left unfinished and not in a way that felt intentional, like it will be picked up in the next book, though I am sure it will be. I'm just left with all these questions that weren't answered and can't be with the way this piece of the puzzle was wrapped up.
Three, there was not enough smut and what there was is certainly not dirty enough for me. I feel like the last few books have been watered down when it comes to the sex, which seems bizarre given that Club Volare is a BDSM club. TAKEN BY CHANCE and a few of her more risqué pieces may have ruined me because they were soooo good and smutty.
I know all of this sounds pretty harsh and I don't really mean for it to be, especially since I still loved it. Even with these flaws it's still a great read and far better than a lot of books out there. Chloe is a great writer. I love her characters, the way she writes them and their saucy exchanges. I love the family she creates of each Volare group. It's because I love her creations so much that I feel like I have to be more honest when they miss the mark. I also can't let my love of all things Chloe bias me when I would rip another author for the same things. So as much as I love the Volare stories, I really hope the Simone and Holt book is the last one. Chloe is so talented, I would love to see her move on to something fresh and not so formulaic.
November 19, 2016
This is the 10th book in the Club Volare series and it is my absolute favorite. I had been patiently waiting for Luke and Charlene's story and it was everything I thought it would be and more. If you like light BDSM and a HEA, this is for you.
Charlene is trying to move on from an abusive relationship with her ex-husband. She's spending all her time at her restaurant, distancing herself from friends and staying away from the sex club. Her trust has been shattered. Now she's in charge of planning Olivia and Gavin's wedding, which a disgruntled former member of the club is trying to sabotage. Also, her weasel ex has reappeared and is trying to get back in her good graces.
Luke, Gavin's friend, is also running from his past. He doesn't want a relationship, but is up for a little Dom/s play. He has his eyes set on Charlene. They work together to make the wedding go on as planned and also learn a few things about each other as well. Can these two get past their abusive pasts and learn to trust again? Or will they walk away so they can never hurt or be hurt again?
Light on the angst, just the right amount of sexy times and some hot sugarkink!
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Charlene is trying to move on from an abusive relationship with her ex-husband. She's spending all her time at her restaurant, distancing herself from friends and staying away from the sex club. Her trust has been shattered. Now she's in charge of planning Olivia and Gavin's wedding, which a disgruntled former member of the club is trying to sabotage. Also, her weasel ex has reappeared and is trying to get back in her good graces.
Luke, Gavin's friend, is also running from his past. He doesn't want a relationship, but is up for a little Dom/s play. He has his eyes set on Charlene. They work together to make the wedding go on as planned and also learn a few things about each other as well. Can these two get past their abusive pasts and learn to trust again? Or will they walk away so they can never hurt or be hurt again?
Light on the angst, just the right amount of sexy times and some hot sugarkink!
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2017
It's back to Club Volare, and I certainly can't believe we are at book ten already. I actually remember when book one came out, (Sold To The Sheikh) I positively fell in love with the series then, and I was keeping my fingers crossed that we would see more of the characters of Club Volare.
I love the fact that the stories have been spread out in different locations. We now have Clubs in 3 different locales that our cast hail out of. In Trust an Even Hand, Charlene finally gets her story. If you remember, she helped Olivia and Gavin get their HEA.
Charlie has her issues with trust though, thanks to her ex. Enter Luke Logan, friend of Gavin, Dom, and someone Charlie has wanted for years. But she's also no longer trusting of men, particularly Doms.
With wedding mishaps popping up everywhere, Luke has been sticking to Charlie like glue. But what happens when the fireworks start to explode?
This is one incredible book in the series, I had to stand up and cheer for how Luke handled Charlie's ex, and I thought that they made a great couple. I am also eagerly awaiting Holt and Simone's book, it's going to be awesome!
I love the fact that the stories have been spread out in different locations. We now have Clubs in 3 different locales that our cast hail out of. In Trust an Even Hand, Charlene finally gets her story. If you remember, she helped Olivia and Gavin get their HEA.
Charlie has her issues with trust though, thanks to her ex. Enter Luke Logan, friend of Gavin, Dom, and someone Charlie has wanted for years. But she's also no longer trusting of men, particularly Doms.
With wedding mishaps popping up everywhere, Luke has been sticking to Charlie like glue. But what happens when the fireworks start to explode?
This is one incredible book in the series, I had to stand up and cheer for how Luke handled Charlie's ex, and I thought that they made a great couple. I am also eagerly awaiting Holt and Simone's book, it's going to be awesome!
November 21, 2016
I really do enjoy reading these Club Volare books...as a matter of fact they were the first BDSM books that I ever really got into before I read 50 Shades of Grey and they really are quite a good combination of emotional and steamy.
Luke and Charlene jumped off the page at me from the very beginning...the chemistry between them was amazing and although the story did get a tad slow in some parts, it was still very sexy and had some very touchy-feeling moments between family members.
This whole series is a really exciting one if you are into the BDSM scene...and although this newest book is a bit "light" on the action, it was still very entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
**** 4 **** "they only thought they couldn't love" stars
Luke and Charlene jumped off the page at me from the very beginning...the chemistry between them was amazing and although the story did get a tad slow in some parts, it was still very sexy and had some very touchy-feeling moments between family members.
This whole series is a really exciting one if you are into the BDSM scene...and although this newest book is a bit "light" on the action, it was still very entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
**** 4 **** "they only thought they couldn't love" stars
November 20, 2016
I enjoyed this book. A good story, lust, love, intrigue, deception, arson, anger - you name it all the emotions were there. And hot sex of course. Just wish someone would edit her books better. Chloe Cox is a fine writer but this book needed an edit. One or two is acceptable, 10 or more isn't. Also, while it is very 'Little House on the Praire' to have a 'house raising' the day after it burned down, it's not realistic. There would need to be an investigation into the fire and permits required to rebuild, etc. Still, a good read and I would read it again. That's my true test of a good read.
December 16, 2016
Another superb read
Each book of the Club Volare series is a complete stand alone. Trust An Even Hand sucked me in from chapter one. The characters have complete personalities and they way they are connected to each other makes the story completely believable.
I enjoyed each plot twist and even knowing there would be a hea I was turning each and every page.
Anyone who likes Club Volare books, and anyone who reads this as their first encounter with the series will finish this book satisfied.
Each book of the Club Volare series is a complete stand alone. Trust An Even Hand sucked me in from chapter one. The characters have complete personalities and they way they are connected to each other makes the story completely believable.
I enjoyed each plot twist and even knowing there would be a hea I was turning each and every page.
Anyone who likes Club Volare books, and anyone who reads this as their first encounter with the series will finish this book satisfied.
December 1, 2016
I have never been disappointed by Chloe Cox's books!
The Story of Luke Logan and Charlene Bastein was a Erotic and sexy story! I don't think this could have been more panty melting of a story about a Dom and the woman he wanted as his Sub. You should ready this time curling story, you will love it!
The Story of Luke Logan and Charlene Bastein was a Erotic and sexy story! I don't think this could have been more panty melting of a story about a Dom and the woman he wanted as his Sub. You should ready this time curling story, you will love it!
November 18, 2016
Arc review For honest review.while help plan a wedding for her friends see find Luke there and her protection. This story has many layer to it ,but a lot of love . Even when you love you must trust and open your heart ,mind ,and body to find peace. Just a awesome read.
November 28, 2016
I haven't read all of the Club Volare books, but I've read several, and this has to be one of the best. The characters and their story were well developed, and I enjoyed the journey to their HEA. I even shed a tear or two.
November 17, 2016
Hot! Hot! Hot!
November 21, 2016
Adored Charlie & Luke's story. Loved the glimpses into the continuing lives of the other doms & their wives - can't wait for the 11th book to come out!
December 6, 2016
Loved It
Luke and Charlene are meant for each other - they both have something that's holding them back - but Luke can't figure out why he's so possessive .
Luke and Charlene are meant for each other - they both have something that's holding them back - but Luke can't figure out why he's so possessive .
January 26, 2017
Lovely story!!
Very enjoyable! Would recommend Chloe Cox to any D/s fans. Great characters good storylines hot sex!! What more could you ask for!!
Very enjoyable! Would recommend Chloe Cox to any D/s fans. Great characters good storylines hot sex!! What more could you ask for!!
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews