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Too Taboo: An Erotic Romance Anthology
In the dark, no desire is forbidden
In this erotic romance anthology, a sex surrogate is drawn into a relationship with a client she wasn't expecting—and can't resist. Two rugged men show a trespasser just what happens when a good girl breaks the rules. And an experienced agent in seduction is captured by her enemy, who turns her worst fears into her darkest cravings.
This anthology
Absolve Me by Morgaine Cameron
Twice as Hard by Amber Bardan
Seduction Captured by Amanda Stewart
Stories also available for purchase separately.
This book is approximately 110,000 words
In this erotic romance anthology, a sex surrogate is drawn into a relationship with a client she wasn't expecting—and can't resist. Two rugged men show a trespasser just what happens when a good girl breaks the rules. And an experienced agent in seduction is captured by her enemy, who turns her worst fears into her darkest cravings.
This anthology
Absolve Me by Morgaine Cameron
Twice as Hard by Amber Bardan
Seduction Captured by Amanda Stewart
Stories also available for purchase separately.
This book is approximately 110,000 words
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2017
19 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 2, 2017
*ARC received from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review*
This review is for 'Twice As Hard' by Amber A. Bardan.
HOT DAMN, this book was so sexy.
I'm always wary of menage romances because most of the time one guy ends up seeming like a 3rd wheel. Or the girl likes one more than the other. But ohhhh, this book really hit the spot (in more ways than one). Neither man was left out, in any sense of the word. I was impressed with the level of heat in the sex scenes. They were scorchers. I was reading them thinking, 'This author done good.'. Just when you're thinking this book is all sex, the drama comes.
I was so surprised about everything that got revealed and who the 2 men really were that I didn't mind the drama at all. It added some really great emotion to the book. The epilogue tied everything up in a nice, sexy bow.
This review is for 'Twice As Hard' by Amber A. Bardan.
HOT DAMN, this book was so sexy.
I'm always wary of menage romances because most of the time one guy ends up seeming like a 3rd wheel. Or the girl likes one more than the other. But ohhhh, this book really hit the spot (in more ways than one). Neither man was left out, in any sense of the word. I was impressed with the level of heat in the sex scenes. They were scorchers. I was reading them thinking, 'This author done good.'. Just when you're thinking this book is all sex, the drama comes.
I was so surprised about everything that got revealed and who the 2 men really were that I didn't mind the drama at all. It added some really great emotion to the book. The epilogue tied everything up in a nice, sexy bow.
March 11, 2017
If you need a smoking hot anthology that offers 3 hot ass stories, this is one to check out. While the description blurb for the book could be a bit more descriptive, the inside makes up for it all!
I have to say I have never read an anthology where all of the stories are great. Usually there are one or two that are so-so. This one - all three were excellent and I could not stop reading!
Absolve Me by Morgaine Cameron -
Totally hot with fantasy scenes being acted out as "therapy"! This read is dripping in sexuality and heat. Fair warning - there are triggers in this story and some religious irreverence that could be uncomfortable.
Twice as Hard by Amber Bardan -
Definitely loaded with triggers in this suspenseful hot story. Some people have great imaginations and this menage story is full of them. Super steamy!
Seduction Squad: Captured by Amanda Stewart -
Great character development and Super hot! This story takes crime to a new level and a few parts are kinda gruesome. Love the unique story and heat!
Overall, this one is a winner. A few interesting spots in the writing, but great quality writing and a lot of taboo going on!
* Copy received for review consideration
I have to say I have never read an anthology where all of the stories are great. Usually there are one or two that are so-so. This one - all three were excellent and I could not stop reading!
Absolve Me by Morgaine Cameron -
Totally hot with fantasy scenes being acted out as "therapy"! This read is dripping in sexuality and heat. Fair warning - there are triggers in this story and some religious irreverence that could be uncomfortable.
Twice as Hard by Amber Bardan -
Definitely loaded with triggers in this suspenseful hot story. Some people have great imaginations and this menage story is full of them. Super steamy!
Seduction Squad: Captured by Amanda Stewart -
Great character development and Super hot! This story takes crime to a new level and a few parts are kinda gruesome. Love the unique story and heat!
Overall, this one is a winner. A few interesting spots in the writing, but great quality writing and a lot of taboo going on!
* Copy received for review consideration
March 23, 2017
3.5 stars
Full review here: http://chellywrites.blogspot.com/2017...
Full review here: http://chellywrites.blogspot.com/2017...
March 8, 2021
3.5
It wasn't until I was on the last of these three stories that I realized it had a fantasy theme. All the characters were living out some erotic fantasy they have, and as if it wasn't hot enough already I think that realization shot it up so much. There's something about the idea of living out one's fantasy that really appeals to me. It's a lost of inhibitions, 'this is who I am and this is what I want to be;' if just for that moment.
It's about letting yourself go like there's no tomorrow. It's about escape from the usual. I've said this before about erotic romances, but that's the point to stories like this, to go somewhere you've only dreamed of, or maybe never even imagined.
Each author did an amazing job of bringing her own view of what can be to this book.
It wasn't until I was on the last of these three stories that I realized it had a fantasy theme. All the characters were living out some erotic fantasy they have, and as if it wasn't hot enough already I think that realization shot it up so much. There's something about the idea of living out one's fantasy that really appeals to me. It's a lost of inhibitions, 'this is who I am and this is what I want to be;' if just for that moment.
It's about letting yourself go like there's no tomorrow. It's about escape from the usual. I've said this before about erotic romances, but that's the point to stories like this, to go somewhere you've only dreamed of, or maybe never even imagined.
Each author did an amazing job of bringing her own view of what can be to this book.
February 6, 2017
Absolve Me: 4.5 Stars
Twice as Hard: 4.5 Stars
Seduction Squad: 5 Stars
All three books were well written and they all lived up to the 'too taboo' tagline. The difference in my ratings is I thought Seduction Squad had a better storyline.
Twice as Hard: 4.5 Stars
Seduction Squad: 5 Stars
All three books were well written and they all lived up to the 'too taboo' tagline. The difference in my ratings is I thought Seduction Squad had a better storyline.
September 13, 2018
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 2.5 of 5
I’ve been fascinated by the increased interest (judging by sales and the numbers of books available in the genre) in ‘erotic romance’ books. That’s what they’re calling this … “An Erotic Romance Anthology.” But as I’ve said before… ‘erotic romance’ seems to be nothing more than a ‘polite’ way to say “porn.” After all, women wouldn’t want to read porn … right? And most men would rather admit to reading an erotic romance than a porn novel, right?
I don’t request these types of books very often, though I certainly could, judging by how many titles are available through my advance reading copy resources. I pick them somewhat randomly and fully admit that I don’t really have a very good handle on what I will be getting until I start reading. Too Taboo sounded interesting since it didn’t seem to me that there were many things that were considered taboo in this genre. And with three longer stories included, I figured it was a good way to get some variety.
The first story, “Absolve Me” by Morgaine Cameron, was quite interesting and well written. Here a sex therapist who works as a sexual surrogate accepts a new client from a fellow therapist. She isn’t told too much about him except that he’s struggling with sex and sexuality. She takes him through a session, gaining more fulfillment and enjoyment herself than she allows herself for work, to discover that his issue stems from his being a priest. He’s trying to decide if giving up sex for the priesthood is the right thing for him. Shocking! But it doesn’t stop her from continuing her education for him. In fact she brings out some strong fantasies of his, which include strong dominating of his partner.
But suddenly he stops and though she’d fallen quite madly in love with him, she realizes he must have decided to commit to the priesthood. When her fellow therapist recommends another client, she doesn’t want to take anyone on, but the friend insists and when the new client appears … ta da! … it’s the priest, who is willing to give up the priesthood and serve his god in other ways, because the sexual bond (pun intended) between them was so great!
“Twice as Hard” by Amber Bardan throws a lot of curve balls at the reader and we’re never quite sure where the story is going until the end … and even then …?
I don’t want to give too much away for those who might actually want to read the story (the stories are available from the publisher separately as well as in this anthology), though this was my least favorite of the trio. Suffice it to say that a woman is dominated by two men.
Domination … ah … I see the recurring theme. But domination doesn’t seem ‘taboo’ any more. It’s become rather prevalent, though I suppose it’s still not considered completely acceptable even among consenting adults.
Although the language in “Absolve Me” is graphic and blunt, it somehow seemed harsher and more jarring in “Twice as Hard.”
The final selection is “Seduction Squad: Captured” by Amanda Stewart. This story seemed the most laughable (yes, more than the seduction of a priest) as a female spy who has been captured is being interrogated by the hunky enemy officer. She’s known to be a part of the ‘seduction squad’ – a team of women well-known for their sexual prowess and ability to turn the strongest man’s legs to jelly by finding his deepest most secret fantasy and toying with him. But she’s been captured, surely she can’t use her wiles against a big, strong man … right?
Do you see where this is going? But which one of them will be the more satisfied? The captured, tied-up woman, or the man who dreams of the captured, tied-up woman?
The book, I believe, does what it intends to do. It helps some readers to experience certain ‘taboo’ sexual fantasies, vicariously. Some moments were indeed sexually exciting, though I imagine I’m a little too ‘vanilla’ for this taboo series. But I’m still fascinated by the idea that we can call porn by another name – erotica – and it’s suddenly more acceptable. But I’ll admit that this is a case where having a Kindle is of great relief because no one had a clue what I was reading, and I wanted to keep it that way!
Looking for a good book? Too Taboo is an anthology of ‘erotic romance’ stories for those with a dominant/submissive kink.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve been fascinated by the increased interest (judging by sales and the numbers of books available in the genre) in ‘erotic romance’ books. That’s what they’re calling this … “An Erotic Romance Anthology.” But as I’ve said before… ‘erotic romance’ seems to be nothing more than a ‘polite’ way to say “porn.” After all, women wouldn’t want to read porn … right? And most men would rather admit to reading an erotic romance than a porn novel, right?
I don’t request these types of books very often, though I certainly could, judging by how many titles are available through my advance reading copy resources. I pick them somewhat randomly and fully admit that I don’t really have a very good handle on what I will be getting until I start reading. Too Taboo sounded interesting since it didn’t seem to me that there were many things that were considered taboo in this genre. And with three longer stories included, I figured it was a good way to get some variety.
The first story, “Absolve Me” by Morgaine Cameron, was quite interesting and well written. Here a sex therapist who works as a sexual surrogate accepts a new client from a fellow therapist. She isn’t told too much about him except that he’s struggling with sex and sexuality. She takes him through a session, gaining more fulfillment and enjoyment herself than she allows herself for work, to discover that his issue stems from his being a priest. He’s trying to decide if giving up sex for the priesthood is the right thing for him. Shocking! But it doesn’t stop her from continuing her education for him. In fact she brings out some strong fantasies of his, which include strong dominating of his partner.
But suddenly he stops and though she’d fallen quite madly in love with him, she realizes he must have decided to commit to the priesthood. When her fellow therapist recommends another client, she doesn’t want to take anyone on, but the friend insists and when the new client appears … ta da! … it’s the priest, who is willing to give up the priesthood and serve his god in other ways, because the sexual bond (pun intended) between them was so great!
“Twice as Hard” by Amber Bardan throws a lot of curve balls at the reader and we’re never quite sure where the story is going until the end … and even then …?
I don’t want to give too much away for those who might actually want to read the story (the stories are available from the publisher separately as well as in this anthology), though this was my least favorite of the trio. Suffice it to say that a woman is dominated by two men.
Domination … ah … I see the recurring theme. But domination doesn’t seem ‘taboo’ any more. It’s become rather prevalent, though I suppose it’s still not considered completely acceptable even among consenting adults.
Although the language in “Absolve Me” is graphic and blunt, it somehow seemed harsher and more jarring in “Twice as Hard.”
The final selection is “Seduction Squad: Captured” by Amanda Stewart. This story seemed the most laughable (yes, more than the seduction of a priest) as a female spy who has been captured is being interrogated by the hunky enemy officer. She’s known to be a part of the ‘seduction squad’ – a team of women well-known for their sexual prowess and ability to turn the strongest man’s legs to jelly by finding his deepest most secret fantasy and toying with him. But she’s been captured, surely she can’t use her wiles against a big, strong man … right?
Do you see where this is going? But which one of them will be the more satisfied? The captured, tied-up woman, or the man who dreams of the captured, tied-up woman?
The book, I believe, does what it intends to do. It helps some readers to experience certain ‘taboo’ sexual fantasies, vicariously. Some moments were indeed sexually exciting, though I imagine I’m a little too ‘vanilla’ for this taboo series. But I’m still fascinated by the idea that we can call porn by another name – erotica – and it’s suddenly more acceptable. But I’ll admit that this is a case where having a Kindle is of great relief because no one had a clue what I was reading, and I wanted to keep it that way!
Looking for a good book? Too Taboo is an anthology of ‘erotic romance’ stories for those with a dominant/submissive kink.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Read
April 14, 2017
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2kloirm
Too Taboo. Yes, this anthology definitely dabbles on the side of naughty. Erotic, passionate, and eager to push boundaries Too Taboo sure heated things up on a cold winter's night.
Overall I really enjoyed this one. Some were stronger than others as the case usually is with an anthology but it was a nice taste of three new to me authors. So the stories are connected by a dubious consent theme. Each in a different way and the first two each with a surprising twist that left me going Oooo!
Absolve Me by Morgaine Cameron
Passionate, daring, erotic. Cameron wrote an amazingly sensual and compelling sexual relationship. Between a sex surrogate and... a priest who's questioning his calling and wanting to act out some of his dark fantasies before deciding if he needed to leave the priesthood. A spot risky and edgy. And definitely not for everyone.
Liza and Dominic's connection was palpable. Dom had some very filthy fantasies and damn it was fun watching them play out. Their chemistry was spot on.
My only trouble was the heroine's motivation. This was a big decision for Dom to make and she made it more about her wants than his needs and trying to lead him in a particular direction. Which so not how a therapist should go into things. I also wanted to see more of his struggle not just a scene being set up, a lotta hot filthy dirty sex then parting ways until the next bang. I did like the end result but just needed more to get me from A to C. I would read her again for sure if I'm wanting a super steamy quickie to get things heated up. Noms!
Oh my. Twice As Hard was sexy as all get out. A heroine captured. Two rugged men. Fantasies played out. A little twist on who the men really were. *bites lip*
Emotional turmoil, lives and futures on the line. This was an exciting little adventure as Gabby accidentally crosses into a neighboring property and gets herself captured by two big burly men who kinda force her into playing out one of her darkest fantasies-- being with two men at the same time. Whew boy the scenes were hot, the guys yummy, a little tease with letters being left for her. It was a good time. And had a nice twist with the relationship, too. Some wording now and again struck me as a bit off--I think because the author was from another country--but it wasn't enough to lessen the enjoyment. I'd read more from Bardan for sure.
So. Inge is pretty much an assassin/prostitute that works for Seduction Squad. She knows how to manipulate to get information she needs and has no problem eliminating people. And she's good at what she does. Too bad she just got herself kidnapped and the tables have turned and Jake's ready to do anything he needs to get the info he wants from her. Mmhm.
These two had a nice dynamic and both had interesting back stories. There was a lot of heat. Especially once she uses her skills to pull his deepest darkest fantasies out of his head and he puts them into action. I mean. Whew! Some of the terminology now and again, though, just...no. Pulsing vulva, bulbous or bulging heads in regards to the hero's naughty bits. Totally pulled me out of the scenes.
Seduction Squad had some fun parts but did drag for me and in the end was just an okay read. It also didn't totally follow along with the anthology. There was totally a kidnapping/ dubious consent thing happening but the other two had fun twists in the 'everything isn't what it seems' regard and with this one that was absent. I kept waiting for that 'surprise' moment and turned out all was as it seemed. I'd be willing to try the author again without the expectations the autho set up for me.
May 8, 2017
Full review at Smart Bitches, Trashy Books
Anthologies are always tough to grade. Do I grade the entire thing and how cohesive it is? Do I just grade each story individually and average it out? Halp!
Normally, I wind up doing the latter because sometimes the stories inside an anthology don’t have a common thread aside from the genre. Such is the case with Too Taboo. It’s an erotic romance anthology, with an emphasis on taboo situations. It seemed right up my alley, given my love for dark romance. I also find that anthologies work as a good palate cleanser because you can easily come back to them.
“Absolve Me” by Morgaine Cameron
It’s an intriguing concept that could have led to a deeper look in how religion can play into an individual’s sex life. However, the heroine’s decisions as a mental health professional were troubling and not romantic in the slightest.
Grade: D+
“Twice as Hard” by Amber Bardan
Imagine the most twisty, unexpected story, then add hot, menage erotica. Just be prepared for a bit of confusion. Bardan is definitely an author to follow.
Grade: B+
“Seduction Squad: Captured” by Amanda Stewart
Despite the let down of this story and its consent issues, I’m curious if the author will continue with the Seduction Squad and its members. If so, I’m at least marginally intrigued.
I get that these stories are supposed to have “taboo” elements, but dubious consent is something I don’t like to mess with.
Grade: D
Several elements of this collection didn’t work for me, namely the problems with boundaries and the pacing of the romance. If those things don’t bother you, nab the anthology. It’s a quick read. But I believe all three stories are available individually. Maybe just save yourself the trouble and pick up “Twice As Hard.” That one I definitely recommend.
- Amanda
Anthologies are always tough to grade. Do I grade the entire thing and how cohesive it is? Do I just grade each story individually and average it out? Halp!
Normally, I wind up doing the latter because sometimes the stories inside an anthology don’t have a common thread aside from the genre. Such is the case with Too Taboo. It’s an erotic romance anthology, with an emphasis on taboo situations. It seemed right up my alley, given my love for dark romance. I also find that anthologies work as a good palate cleanser because you can easily come back to them.
“Absolve Me” by Morgaine Cameron
It’s an intriguing concept that could have led to a deeper look in how religion can play into an individual’s sex life. However, the heroine’s decisions as a mental health professional were troubling and not romantic in the slightest.
Grade: D+
“Twice as Hard” by Amber Bardan
Imagine the most twisty, unexpected story, then add hot, menage erotica. Just be prepared for a bit of confusion. Bardan is definitely an author to follow.
Grade: B+
“Seduction Squad: Captured” by Amanda Stewart
Despite the let down of this story and its consent issues, I’m curious if the author will continue with the Seduction Squad and its members. If so, I’m at least marginally intrigued.
I get that these stories are supposed to have “taboo” elements, but dubious consent is something I don’t like to mess with.
Grade: D
Several elements of this collection didn’t work for me, namely the problems with boundaries and the pacing of the romance. If those things don’t bother you, nab the anthology. It’s a quick read. But I believe all three stories are available individually. Maybe just save yourself the trouble and pick up “Twice As Hard.” That one I definitely recommend.
- Amanda
July 15, 2017
Title: Too Taboo: An Erotic Romance Anthology
Author: Morgaine Cameron, Amber A Bardan, Amanda Stewart
Publisher: Carina Press
Published: 3-29-2017
Pages: 294
Genre: Erotica
Sub-Genre: Forbidden Fantasy Play; Adults Only
ISBN: 9781488028137
ASIN: B01N74MIJV
Reviewed For NetGalley and Carina Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4 Stars
In the dark, no desire is forbidden
In this erotic romance anthology, a sex surrogate is drawn into a relationship with a client she wasn't expecting—and can't resist. Two rugged men show a trespasser just what happens when a good girl breaks the rules. And an experienced agent in seduction is captured by her enemy, who turns her worst fears into her darkest cravings.
This anthology includes:
Absolve Me by Morgaine Cameron
Twice as Hard by Amber Bardan
Seduction Squad: Captured by Amanda Stewart
This book is definitely not for anyone under the eighteen should be near this story. The heat coming off the pages may spontaneously combust. so have something wet and cold to cool down with. This book is filled with the Dom/Sub dynamics. The one thread running through is if it is consensual, anything goes.
If you are looking with some stories that will rev up your libido and heart rate then take a look at "Too Taboo: An Erotic Romance Anthology".
My rating of "Too Taboo: An Erotic Romance Anthology" is 4 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N74MIJV/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/too-...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Books-A-Million Link: Not Available
Rakuten Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/too-...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Morgaine Cameron, Amber A Bardan, Amanda Stewart
Publisher: Carina Press
Published: 3-29-2017
Pages: 294
Genre: Erotica
Sub-Genre: Forbidden Fantasy Play; Adults Only
ISBN: 9781488028137
ASIN: B01N74MIJV
Reviewed For NetGalley and Carina Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4 Stars
In the dark, no desire is forbidden
In this erotic romance anthology, a sex surrogate is drawn into a relationship with a client she wasn't expecting—and can't resist. Two rugged men show a trespasser just what happens when a good girl breaks the rules. And an experienced agent in seduction is captured by her enemy, who turns her worst fears into her darkest cravings.
This anthology includes:
Absolve Me by Morgaine Cameron
Twice as Hard by Amber Bardan
Seduction Squad: Captured by Amanda Stewart
This book is definitely not for anyone under the eighteen should be near this story. The heat coming off the pages may spontaneously combust. so have something wet and cold to cool down with. This book is filled with the Dom/Sub dynamics. The one thread running through is if it is consensual, anything goes.
If you are looking with some stories that will rev up your libido and heart rate then take a look at "Too Taboo: An Erotic Romance Anthology".
My rating of "Too Taboo: An Erotic Romance Anthology" is 4 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N74MIJV/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/too-...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Books-A-Million Link: Not Available
Rakuten Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/too-...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
September 13, 2022
This is a boxset of three short stories/novellas; I will review individually as I read (in order they appear in the set).
Absolve Me by Morgaine Cameron
pgs 9-115, 1%-39%
3.75-4 Stars
The fact that the hero in this one is a priest (one of my favorite tropes ever) and the brief but hot sex scenes bumps this one up for me. I liked the idea of the heroine being a sexual surrogate therapist but I have to say I wish there was more of the sex and tension between the couple than all of the healthy stuff in between. Their emotional connection to each other wasn't supported on the page, but I imagine the short length hampered that. The writing and editing is good and while I wish there had been a full-length book full of tension and angst over his choices to really sell it, it was a good read.
Twice as Hard by Amber Bardan
pgs 120-207, 40%-67%
4-4.5 Stars
This story featured one of my favorite kinks (CNC) and was MFM to boot. I loved the story and the heat and would have been happy to read a full book about these characters. There were a couple of parts that I felt were kind of weak but overall I just really enjoyed this one and I can imagine re-reading it in the future at some point too, which is rare for me. There is an excerpt for another book by the author at the end and I skipped that part, but I will definitely be checking out this author's other work.
Seduction Squad: Captured by Amanda Stewart
pgs 221-311, 70%-99%
3.75-4 Stars
I liked the plot of this one and the steamy bits were great, especially the first few, but I did find my interest waning a bit in some places. I like the female character's job and that nothing about that was shied away from. It was written and edited well and I will likely see what else this author may have available to read.
All in all, I enjoyed this anthology of three short stories and can even see myself re-reading it at some point.
Absolve Me by Morgaine Cameron
pgs 9-115, 1%-39%
3.75-4 Stars
The fact that the hero in this one is a priest (one of my favorite tropes ever) and the brief but hot sex scenes bumps this one up for me. I liked the idea of the heroine being a sexual surrogate therapist but I have to say I wish there was more of the sex and tension between the couple than all of the healthy stuff in between. Their emotional connection to each other wasn't supported on the page, but I imagine the short length hampered that. The writing and editing is good and while I wish there had been a full-length book full of tension and angst over his choices to really sell it, it was a good read.
Twice as Hard by Amber Bardan
pgs 120-207, 40%-67%
4-4.5 Stars
This story featured one of my favorite kinks (CNC) and was MFM to boot. I loved the story and the heat and would have been happy to read a full book about these characters. There were a couple of parts that I felt were kind of weak but overall I just really enjoyed this one and I can imagine re-reading it in the future at some point too, which is rare for me. There is an excerpt for another book by the author at the end and I skipped that part, but I will definitely be checking out this author's other work.
Seduction Squad: Captured by Amanda Stewart
pgs 221-311, 70%-99%
3.75-4 Stars
I liked the plot of this one and the steamy bits were great, especially the first few, but I did find my interest waning a bit in some places. I like the female character's job and that nothing about that was shied away from. It was written and edited well and I will likely see what else this author may have available to read.
All in all, I enjoyed this anthology of three short stories and can even see myself re-reading it at some point.
December 28, 2019
I checked out this book only to read "Absolve Me," which was an accidental discovery on Overdrive -- one of those times when I was seeking some book with a completely different title, but it wasn't available on Overdrive, so the search results gave me books with an unrelated title. I liked "Absolve Me" so much, I decided to see how the other stories were.
All the stories have some taboo element and deal with fantasy fulfillment and BDSM culture, especially dom/sub scenes.
-Absolve Me: 5 stars (I only wish this had been longer!)
I've reviewed this separately on a page for the stand-alone story. Lisa, a sex surrogate, helps out a patient who is supposed to be a celibate priest. The priest is a born dominant and describes several hot, taboo fantasies that make him question his priesthood before acting them out with Lisa, who happens to be a submissive and the perfect partner for his dark desires.
-Twice as Hard: 3.5 stars
This menage a trois story had elements of voyeurism and dom/sub culture, too. I'm not into butt play and the DP scenes were not my thing. But the passion was pretty hot.
-Seduction Squad: 4.5 stars
I enjoyed the exotic locales and high stakes of this story. I wish it had not been a romance. I really felt like the story lost some of its edginess that way. Again, there were dom/sub scenes, a shower scene, and a few spicy scenes with public sex, including one of my favorite kind -- done to perfection. I thought it was really well-written but didn't award 5 stars because of the heavier subject matter (assassination, blackmail, captivity). I wanted a more dramatic, less HEA sort of ending.
All the stories have some taboo element and deal with fantasy fulfillment and BDSM culture, especially dom/sub scenes.
-Absolve Me: 5 stars (I only wish this had been longer!)
I've reviewed this separately on a page for the stand-alone story. Lisa, a sex surrogate, helps out a patient who is supposed to be a celibate priest. The priest is a born dominant and describes several hot, taboo fantasies that make him question his priesthood before acting them out with Lisa, who happens to be a submissive and the perfect partner for his dark desires.
-Twice as Hard: 3.5 stars
This menage a trois story had elements of voyeurism and dom/sub culture, too. I'm not into butt play and the DP scenes were not my thing. But the passion was pretty hot.
-Seduction Squad: 4.5 stars
I enjoyed the exotic locales and high stakes of this story. I wish it had not been a romance. I really felt like the story lost some of its edginess that way. Again, there were dom/sub scenes, a shower scene, and a few spicy scenes with public sex, including one of my favorite kind -- done to perfection. I thought it was really well-written but didn't award 5 stars because of the heavier subject matter (assassination, blackmail, captivity). I wanted a more dramatic, less HEA sort of ending.
May 29, 2017
This anthology was about fantasies, specifically with taboo themes. I wasn’t sure if I wasn’t going to like it as the themes are a bit “more” than I’d typically read. Plus most taboo stories don’t have plot and go way overboard. Luckily, none of these stories are like that. I really enjoyed them, even some of the parts that I was a little uncomfortable with. The writing was so good, I had to keep reading. I really enjoyed it and highly recommend.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
January 31, 2019
Absolve Me by Morgaine Cameron
Really good. I enjoyed the connection between Liza and Dominic. Their sex scenes were very hot. The conflict that keeps them apart for a bit was plausible, the resolution a bit too convenient.
Twice as Hard by Amber Bardan
A bit of bait & switch in terms of a plot trick.
Seduction Squad: Captured by Amanda Stewart
Interesting and somewhat dark. A quick read, for all that.
Bought from kobo
Really good. I enjoyed the connection between Liza and Dominic. Their sex scenes were very hot. The conflict that keeps them apart for a bit was plausible, the resolution a bit too convenient.
Twice as Hard by Amber Bardan
A bit of bait & switch in terms of a plot trick.
Seduction Squad: Captured by Amanda Stewart
Interesting and somewhat dark. A quick read, for all that.
Bought from kobo
July 9, 2017
This was a fantastic anthology!
Each story was well written and told us the story smoothly and at a great pace that made this a quick and great read.
The scenes were hot, hot, hot! You sensed the chemistry and the actions that they made. It was clear and concise of what the authors were portraying.
Of course there was drama and angst to give the stories some spice!
Dive in and enjoy!
Each story was well written and told us the story smoothly and at a great pace that made this a quick and great read.
The scenes were hot, hot, hot! You sensed the chemistry and the actions that they made. It was clear and concise of what the authors were portraying.
Of course there was drama and angst to give the stories some spice!
Dive in and enjoy!
April 14, 2018
This Anthology was amazing!!
All the stories were very hot and entertaining. You got a little bit of everything, from kink to manage to a thriller. There's something for everyone here. I will look for more stories from these authors.
All the stories were very hot and entertaining. You got a little bit of everything, from kink to manage to a thriller. There's something for everyone here. I will look for more stories from these authors.
February 26, 2017
netgalley
overall good read. really liked all three.
overall good read. really liked all three.
March 21, 2017
As erotic (and taboo) as promised. The last story involved too much actual rape (and references to child abuse) to maintain any eroticism, but overall some good story telling.
March 22, 2017
Three fast paced reads with great characters, entertaining stories and hot sex. I was hooked from beginning to end. I loved it!
March 3, 2017
With a title like Too Taboo you can expect some heat in this boxed set. The first story featured a sex surrogate and her new "client" that is struggling with his career choice and it's obligations. Second story is a menage with a slight hint of forced consent. The third story features a covert operative that specializes in seduction to get her information. Except this time she is the one that is being coerced for information. Overall, an enjoyable boxed set.
March 22, 2017
A great fantasy driven anthology by three talented erotic romance authors. Each story in this anthology can be read as a standalone, but together, they made for a super-hot, fast-paced romance read. Every tale consisted of a taboo fantasy (which may trigger some readers) and well-developed characters operating within an intriguing plot. Great overall read.
February 5, 2017
I enjoyed all three novellas in this erotic romance anthology. Thanks to Carina Press and Netgalley for the preview.
April 3, 2017
Copying my Amazon.com review of this, because that said it all:
"I bought this book at a friend's rec, and I'm truly glad I did. I've read a lot of erotica over the years, and I have to say the writing in this one was on par with the likes of Kate Pearce, Christine Feehan, Lora Leigh, Faleena Hopkins, Tia Siren, and Maya Banks. The authors (Morgaine, Amber, and Amanda) seriously turned the taboo into the tempting with this, their first release.
In a nutshell, this book is filled with dynamic, complex characters with deeply psychological edge-play kinks (e.g. rape fantasy, knife play, breath play, double penetration, anal training and virginity loss, taboo relationships, etc.) that they are exploring for the first time in a variety of scenarios. "Safe, sane, consensual" is the motto here, however (even in the last story, where the first sexual experience between the characters borders on dub-con and non-con, but you find out afterwards that it really was consensual).
Despite the fact this book is rooted in women playing sexually submissive roles (in a BDSM power dynamic of one sort or another), they are all of them courageous and tough, not ever to be mistaken as victims. Part of the charm of these ladies, however, is that despite their inner strengths, each woman struggles a bit with self-doubt as a result of her past and/or her present unfulfilling circumstances (something, I think, most of us ladies can relate to, yes?). However, each woman's willingness to try to overcome her fears by pushing her own boundaries to the limit--putting her body and heart on the line (and risking total emotional obliteration) is what makes her admirable. None of them simply accept the comfort of the familiar and safe; they MAKE their futures what they want them to be, and they do so unashamed and without apology.
This anthology is not just about the hot, varied sex and the explicit bedroom talk, though. It's about trust and making connections (hence the romance aspect). That's where the anthology's real strength lies. After-care that is romantic and sweet (checking in on a partner's emotional and physical state, cleaning them up, holding and kissing them, praise, etc.) is just as important here as playing out the scenes and fulfilling the darker aspects of one's needs.
The technical stuff: I found the pacing for the first story to be the smoothest of the three tales, but the plotting for all three was definitely well-considered and executed. Different writing styles between the three authors (first person & third person, switching character POVs) made the anthology interesting; I liked the swtich-up. Also, I only spied 2 print mistakes in the whole thing (1 missing period at the end of a sentence and 1 missing word in the middle of a paragraph) -- which is better editing work than some of the bigger pub house releases in recent years. I didn't feel as if either error threw me out of the moment, however. 294 pages felt too short for me, though -- I wanted more of each story, honestly. But then, I'm sort of greedy like that when it comes to this genre. :)
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this anthology and am looking forward to more from these authors! Give this one a chance if dark, hardcore BDSM is your style. I think you'll really enjoy this one."
"I bought this book at a friend's rec, and I'm truly glad I did. I've read a lot of erotica over the years, and I have to say the writing in this one was on par with the likes of Kate Pearce, Christine Feehan, Lora Leigh, Faleena Hopkins, Tia Siren, and Maya Banks. The authors (Morgaine, Amber, and Amanda) seriously turned the taboo into the tempting with this, their first release.
In a nutshell, this book is filled with dynamic, complex characters with deeply psychological edge-play kinks (e.g. rape fantasy, knife play, breath play, double penetration, anal training and virginity loss, taboo relationships, etc.) that they are exploring for the first time in a variety of scenarios. "Safe, sane, consensual" is the motto here, however (even in the last story, where the first sexual experience between the characters borders on dub-con and non-con, but you find out afterwards that it really was consensual).
Despite the fact this book is rooted in women playing sexually submissive roles (in a BDSM power dynamic of one sort or another), they are all of them courageous and tough, not ever to be mistaken as victims. Part of the charm of these ladies, however, is that despite their inner strengths, each woman struggles a bit with self-doubt as a result of her past and/or her present unfulfilling circumstances (something, I think, most of us ladies can relate to, yes?). However, each woman's willingness to try to overcome her fears by pushing her own boundaries to the limit--putting her body and heart on the line (and risking total emotional obliteration) is what makes her admirable. None of them simply accept the comfort of the familiar and safe; they MAKE their futures what they want them to be, and they do so unashamed and without apology.
This anthology is not just about the hot, varied sex and the explicit bedroom talk, though. It's about trust and making connections (hence the romance aspect). That's where the anthology's real strength lies. After-care that is romantic and sweet (checking in on a partner's emotional and physical state, cleaning them up, holding and kissing them, praise, etc.) is just as important here as playing out the scenes and fulfilling the darker aspects of one's needs.
The technical stuff: I found the pacing for the first story to be the smoothest of the three tales, but the plotting for all three was definitely well-considered and executed. Different writing styles between the three authors (first person & third person, switching character POVs) made the anthology interesting; I liked the swtich-up. Also, I only spied 2 print mistakes in the whole thing (1 missing period at the end of a sentence and 1 missing word in the middle of a paragraph) -- which is better editing work than some of the bigger pub house releases in recent years. I didn't feel as if either error threw me out of the moment, however. 294 pages felt too short for me, though -- I wanted more of each story, honestly. But then, I'm sort of greedy like that when it comes to this genre. :)
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this anthology and am looking forward to more from these authors! Give this one a chance if dark, hardcore BDSM is your style. I think you'll really enjoy this one."
April 4, 2017
The only story that saved this anthology for me was Amber Bardan's "Twice as Hard." It just reminds me of how well she can craft a smart and smutty story that can still take you by surprise.
"Absolve Me" bothered me with its sheer unprofessional behavior from the heroine. If given a longer format, those issues could have been smoothed out rather than having to rush to the romance part.
So many triggers for "Seduction Squad: Captured." Admitting you like a particular kink doesn't give a person unending permission to engage in that kink with you whenever they see fit, and that's what bothered me most of all. Plus, there's so much tragedy packed into a 100-page story that even with an HEA, I was still bummed out.
"Absolve Me" bothered me with its sheer unprofessional behavior from the heroine. If given a longer format, those issues could have been smoothed out rather than having to rush to the romance part.
So many triggers for "Seduction Squad: Captured." Admitting you like a particular kink doesn't give a person unending permission to engage in that kink with you whenever they see fit, and that's what bothered me most of all. Plus, there's so much tragedy packed into a 100-page story that even with an HEA, I was still bummed out.
April 13, 2017
I always find it hard to score anthologies but this is a solid 3.5 stars. There are three novella length stories around 40k, 32k, and 32k approximately. I can't remember exactly. The stories are fantasy based erotic romance. These means that some of the scenarios are "scenes" or pre-agreed fantasies acted out by the participants. Too Taboo in this case, indicates they may include forced seduction, rough sex, and dubious consent scenarios. They are included in the Carina Press Romance Promise which guarantees a HEA or HFN in case you are worried.
Absolve Me has an added Taboo. The hero is a priest although the heroine doesn't realise this at first. Dominic has requested a referral from his counsellor to Sexual Surrogate Liza to help him deal with some fantasies that are disturbing him and making him question his vocation. This is a bit of a fantasy for quite a few women, dating back to The Thornbirds and beyond. They say God takes the best and leaves us the rest.
While this had some very erotic scenes, there is plenty of attention given to the developing emotional relationship between Dominic and Liza and the ending is satisfying.
Twice as Hard is a menage romance with a strong fantasy element around capture and dubious consent. The characters were quite well rounded and both men were clearly distinct personalities. The smexy was slightly more explicit and language stronger than the first story. The ending was satisfactory.
The third story, Seduction Squad: Captured looks like the beginning of a series around a group of women (assumed but there could be men I imagine) who are spies, using their bodies to extract secrets from powerful men. The hero is a former child soldier from Zimbabwe with a suitable traumatic background. In this story, the action is turned around a little with the hero Jake appearing to be in control but Inge is no helpless heroine in distress. While there is an element of fantasy in this story, it is a little more real than the earlier two. The ending was satisfactory.
Overall the stories were well matched which makes for an evenly paced anthology. I found the stories engrossing. I requested a copy from Netgalley for an independent review.
Absolve Me has an added Taboo. The hero is a priest although the heroine doesn't realise this at first. Dominic has requested a referral from his counsellor to Sexual Surrogate Liza to help him deal with some fantasies that are disturbing him and making him question his vocation. This is a bit of a fantasy for quite a few women, dating back to The Thornbirds and beyond. They say God takes the best and leaves us the rest.
While this had some very erotic scenes, there is plenty of attention given to the developing emotional relationship between Dominic and Liza and the ending is satisfying.
Twice as Hard is a menage romance with a strong fantasy element around capture and dubious consent. The characters were quite well rounded and both men were clearly distinct personalities. The smexy was slightly more explicit and language stronger than the first story. The ending was satisfactory.
The third story, Seduction Squad: Captured looks like the beginning of a series around a group of women (assumed but there could be men I imagine) who are spies, using their bodies to extract secrets from powerful men. The hero is a former child soldier from Zimbabwe with a suitable traumatic background. In this story, the action is turned around a little with the hero Jake appearing to be in control but Inge is no helpless heroine in distress. While there is an element of fantasy in this story, it is a little more real than the earlier two. The ending was satisfactory.
Overall the stories were well matched which makes for an evenly paced anthology. I found the stories engrossing. I requested a copy from Netgalley for an independent review.
April 25, 2017
Absolve Me - 3 stars
Twice as Hard - 3.5 stars
Seduction Squad: Captured - 4 stars
Twice as Hard - 3.5 stars
Seduction Squad: Captured - 4 stars
March 28, 2019
Usually I don’t like anthologies this much because there are stories that miss with me. I really liked all these stories and they were smoking hot to me. It helps to find BDSM and dominant men hot, which I’m sure doesn’t do it for many the stories are sweet in a dark, twisted way, but so good!
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