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Legally Bound #1
His Contract
Lawyers know when to play by the rules…and when to break them.
Legally Bound, Book 1
Harvard law professor Jack Archer once balanced his professional life with the private world of dominance, surrender, and trust he shared with his wife. Since cancer stole her a year ago, finding love again—her final wish for him—is the furthest thing from his mind.
From his empty house to the classroom, grief follows his every move. Until he meets a young woman with shadows in her eyes even darker than his own.
Once a shining star at law school, Lilly Sterling’s dreams died when the Dom she trusted left her heartbroken and lost. She’s starting fresh in a new city as a paralegal, but meeting Jack reawakens all her old demons—and her lingering desires.
Jack offers to become Lilly’s mentor for both the courtroom and the playroom, but tells himself it’s not a relationship. Their carefully worded contract guarantees that. But when their trial agreement starts heating up, both Jack and Lilly must decide what will tip the scales: the letter of the law...or love?
Warning: All rise for a book that contains a wounded submissive and a Dominant who wants to retrain her while retaining control of his heart. Discovery phase may involve spankings, bondage, edging, and blindfolds. Is it hot? You be the judge.
Legally Bound, Book 1
Harvard law professor Jack Archer once balanced his professional life with the private world of dominance, surrender, and trust he shared with his wife. Since cancer stole her a year ago, finding love again—her final wish for him—is the furthest thing from his mind.
From his empty house to the classroom, grief follows his every move. Until he meets a young woman with shadows in her eyes even darker than his own.
Once a shining star at law school, Lilly Sterling’s dreams died when the Dom she trusted left her heartbroken and lost. She’s starting fresh in a new city as a paralegal, but meeting Jack reawakens all her old demons—and her lingering desires.
Jack offers to become Lilly’s mentor for both the courtroom and the playroom, but tells himself it’s not a relationship. Their carefully worded contract guarantees that. But when their trial agreement starts heating up, both Jack and Lilly must decide what will tip the scales: the letter of the law...or love?
Warning: All rise for a book that contains a wounded submissive and a Dominant who wants to retrain her while retaining control of his heart. Discovery phase may involve spankings, bondage, edging, and blindfolds. Is it hot? You be the judge.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2015
462 people are currently reading
1043 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Grace Allen
18 books242 followersRebecca Grace Allen writes hot, heartbreaking, happily-ever-afters. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a double concentration in Creative Writing and Literary Comparison, as well as a Master of Science in Education, both of which seemed like good ideas at the time. After stumbling through jobs in entertainment, publishing, law and teaching, she's returned to my first love: writing. A self-admitted caffeine addict and gym rat, she lives in upstate New York with her husband, two parakeets, and a cat with a very unusual foot fetish.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
November 11, 2015
3.5 stars
This is a BDSM theme book between a grieving widower and a broken submissive. I like the idea that I can read about two lost individual helping each other to piece themselves back together again.
Jack Archer is a law Professor in his mid forties who just watched his beloved wife and submissive passed away. Although his wife wish for him to find love again, that was the last thing on Jack's mind.
Lilly Sterling is a legal clerk in her mid twenties. After being left broken by her previous Dom, Lilly vowed to leave her past behind and start a new by moving into a new city.
Jack and Lilly met when they were both were dragged out for Saturday night drinking by their respective friends. There was this instant attraction between these two when they first laid eyes on each other. Although they tried to keep things casual while in front of their friends, before long they both started to seek other out and found out they both are into BDSM.
First of all, I love the whole secondary casts we have here. From Lilly's brother - Nick, Nick's boyfriend - Gabe, to Jack's brother - Brady and Jack's wingman - Patrick the manwhore. They are bunch of lively characters that although they didn't do much beside teasing their friends, making fun of Jack being a hermit and binge drinking, they are plainly fun to read. Patrick seems to have his own story to tell, which I can't wait for it.
Back to the BDSM part, initially I thought the idea of a contract ridiculous, but after reading through it with Lilly, I was amazed that it was such a comprehensive one that I don't mind seeing them signing off like it was a business deal. Almost all of their sexual activities took place in the playroom, with similar routine as the initiation, which I find it a tad too orchestrated. I prefer a bit more variety and more impromptu sex. But I enjoyed seeing how Jack tried to heal Lilly's old wound and pushing her limitation.
When Jack realized that they are both starting to get closer, he was torn between guilty about feeling love again and worry how he will be judge for being with someone so much younger than him. Lilly was also reminded once again she was back to square one, wanting a man who rather keep her as his dirty secret. I love the part whereby Jack finally stop being an ass and they come out as a couple to their friends, but I wish it could happen earlier to see how they work as a functional couple, instead of the Dom and sub.
This is a BDSM theme book between a grieving widower and a broken submissive. I like the idea that I can read about two lost individual helping each other to piece themselves back together again.
Jack Archer is a law Professor in his mid forties who just watched his beloved wife and submissive passed away. Although his wife wish for him to find love again, that was the last thing on Jack's mind.
Lilly Sterling is a legal clerk in her mid twenties. After being left broken by her previous Dom, Lilly vowed to leave her past behind and start a new by moving into a new city.
Jack and Lilly met when they were both were dragged out for Saturday night drinking by their respective friends. There was this instant attraction between these two when they first laid eyes on each other. Although they tried to keep things casual while in front of their friends, before long they both started to seek other out and found out they both are into BDSM.
First of all, I love the whole secondary casts we have here. From Lilly's brother - Nick, Nick's boyfriend - Gabe, to Jack's brother - Brady and Jack's wingman - Patrick the manwhore. They are bunch of lively characters that although they didn't do much beside teasing their friends, making fun of Jack being a hermit and binge drinking, they are plainly fun to read. Patrick seems to have his own story to tell, which I can't wait for it.
Back to the BDSM part, initially I thought the idea of a contract ridiculous, but after reading through it with Lilly, I was amazed that it was such a comprehensive one that I don't mind seeing them signing off like it was a business deal. Almost all of their sexual activities took place in the playroom, with similar routine as the initiation, which I find it a tad too orchestrated. I prefer a bit more variety and more impromptu sex. But I enjoyed seeing how Jack tried to heal Lilly's old wound and pushing her limitation.
When Jack realized that they are both starting to get closer, he was torn between guilty about feeling love again and worry how he will be judge for being with someone so much younger than him. Lilly was also reminded once again she was back to square one, wanting a man who rather keep her as his dirty secret. I love the part whereby Jack finally stop being an ass and they come out as a couple to their friends, but I wish it could happen earlier to see how they work as a functional couple, instead of the Dom and sub.
November 6, 2015
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Okay. I must admit that lately I have been disappointed by the BDSM genre, aside from a few books that spoke to me on a deeper level. Well, this book revived the genre for me. This book was excellent!! I loved every minute of this well thought and perfectly executed storyline.
Lilly is a true submissive but she has been hurt by the only man she had ever trusted her fantasies with. Damien broke her and humiliated her. She runs away and builds a life for herself but she feels empty...lonely.
Jack is a widower with a son. He lost his wife, Eve and he cannot move past his pain and loss. Alone, he focuses on his work. Teaching at Harvard is his life. He wants nothing more...until he sees Lilly and notices her fractured heart. His need to slip into the forgotten role of the Dominant is strong when she is around and she naturally responds to his need of having control. A contract seems like the perfect way to heal Lilly and so, Jack does that. He teaches her everything she needed to know. Their age difference is forgotten and Lilly's willingness to submit embraces them in safety until Jack realizes that their growing bond might be Lilly's downfall. Love seems impossible for Jack, Lilly's youth a constant thorn, until a stupid mistake tears her away.
I LOVED the writing. The book was long but it never got tiring. I loved the character development and oh my God, Rebecca Grace Allen knows how to spin a perfect BDSM scene. Jack was simply amazing and despite his stubbornness, he is at the top of my current book boyfriend list.
Lilly was a great heroine. She balanced her submission and natural wittiness perfectly. She was not a pushover; she was simply misled and betrayed. Jack was amazing at building back her self esteem and confidence. Their chemistry almost made my Kindle combust! I loved the secondary characters and even though this might seem like a story that has been told before, IT'S NOT. This author is the new fresh air in the BDSM romance. I cannot wait for more from her.
+++++5 Stars+++++
Okay. I must admit that lately I have been disappointed by the BDSM genre, aside from a few books that spoke to me on a deeper level. Well, this book revived the genre for me. This book was excellent!! I loved every minute of this well thought and perfectly executed storyline.
Lilly is a true submissive but she has been hurt by the only man she had ever trusted her fantasies with. Damien broke her and humiliated her. She runs away and builds a life for herself but she feels empty...lonely.
Jack is a widower with a son. He lost his wife, Eve and he cannot move past his pain and loss. Alone, he focuses on his work. Teaching at Harvard is his life. He wants nothing more...until he sees Lilly and notices her fractured heart. His need to slip into the forgotten role of the Dominant is strong when she is around and she naturally responds to his need of having control. A contract seems like the perfect way to heal Lilly and so, Jack does that. He teaches her everything she needed to know. Their age difference is forgotten and Lilly's willingness to submit embraces them in safety until Jack realizes that their growing bond might be Lilly's downfall. Love seems impossible for Jack, Lilly's youth a constant thorn, until a stupid mistake tears her away.
I LOVED the writing. The book was long but it never got tiring. I loved the character development and oh my God, Rebecca Grace Allen knows how to spin a perfect BDSM scene. Jack was simply amazing and despite his stubbornness, he is at the top of my current book boyfriend list.
Lilly was a great heroine. She balanced her submission and natural wittiness perfectly. She was not a pushover; she was simply misled and betrayed. Jack was amazing at building back her self esteem and confidence. Their chemistry almost made my Kindle combust! I loved the secondary characters and even though this might seem like a story that has been told before, IT'S NOT. This author is the new fresh air in the BDSM romance. I cannot wait for more from her.
+++++5 Stars+++++
December 6, 2015
1.5* rounded up.
I give up! This was so boring and pedestrian, so same-old, same-old, that I quietly slipped off into sleep halfway through.
The book was well-edited, had no major language or grammar issues, few typos. That's why it gets the 1.5*. It unfortunately also bored me to distraction. Not only that, again, we get a female submissive and some uber-domly dom, we also get the typical drama of m/f BDSM stories, we get a female who likes everything, does everything, wants everything the average pornstar also likes. She is as individualistic as a grass blade. Not. The domly dom behaves like someone out of Disney, or maybe someone the younger Tom Hanks could play to a Tee. And unfortunately he is as unsexy. The BDSM is nothing I haven't read countless times, and absolutely unerotic as well. I'll not even start on those many inconsistencies which do not mesh with the actual topic of the book.
Oh. Wait.
Those two have unprotected fluid exchange, they poke fingers into various orifices, kiss, BJ, lick, masturbate from here to the moon, but - guess what! - because no one put a peen away in a wet pussy that is no sex. Yeah. Right. Only peen-in-vayjayjay-activity is sex. Someone listened too much to a former prez, I'd say... duh.
I give up! This was so boring and pedestrian, so same-old, same-old, that I quietly slipped off into sleep halfway through.
The book was well-edited, had no major language or grammar issues, few typos. That's why it gets the 1.5*. It unfortunately also bored me to distraction. Not only that, again, we get a female submissive and some uber-domly dom, we also get the typical drama of m/f BDSM stories, we get a female who likes everything, does everything, wants everything the average pornstar also likes. She is as individualistic as a grass blade. Not. The domly dom behaves like someone out of Disney, or maybe someone the younger Tom Hanks could play to a Tee. And unfortunately he is as unsexy. The BDSM is nothing I haven't read countless times, and absolutely unerotic as well. I'll not even start on those many inconsistencies which do not mesh with the actual topic of the book.
Oh. Wait.
Those two have unprotected fluid exchange, they poke fingers into various orifices, kiss, BJ, lick, masturbate from here to the moon, but - guess what! - because no one put a peen away in a wet pussy that is no sex. Yeah. Right. Only peen-in-vayjayjay-activity is sex. Someone listened too much to a former prez, I'd say... duh.
September 21, 2015
ARC received for review
4.75 stars
HOT HOT HOT HOT!!! Oh my, Jack and Lilly are amazing together. They both had an angst-y past. They worked through all their issues, separately and together. There was a great group of friends. I hope Ms. Allen plans a book with Patrick and Cassie. My only complaint was the ending. I wanted more.
4.75 stars
HOT HOT HOT HOT!!! Oh my, Jack and Lilly are amazing together. They both had an angst-y past. They worked through all their issues, separately and together. There was a great group of friends. I hope Ms. Allen plans a book with Patrick and Cassie. My only complaint was the ending. I wanted more.
February 25, 2016
I just finished this and I can say it was a very, very good book. I am always uncertain when I read a new to me authors because at lest 1/2 of them don't work for me. I am so happy this wasn't the case.
The characters are very real and relatable people: Jack is a widower who struggles with his life without his beloved wife, Lilly was burned in love and because of that had some confidence issues. It was lovely to read how they healed each other and how both benefited from the relationship. Often enough you don't see equal growth with both main characters so I enjoyed the story very much.
The secondary characters weren't as well developed, but they weren't one dimensional either. I'm really curious if we'll see a story with Patrick, Cassie or Josh(Jack's son) as main character. I think either of them would have great stories to tell.
The erotic and BDSM aspects were also done well. I didn't roll my eyes or cringed while reading it :D I loved that it really fit the characters and that it helped move the story along, they weren't thrown there just because it's what in demand right now.
All in all I'll be stalking this author and looking forward to more stories from her. A total win for me :)
The characters are very real and relatable people: Jack is a widower who struggles with his life without his beloved wife, Lilly was burned in love and because of that had some confidence issues. It was lovely to read how they healed each other and how both benefited from the relationship. Often enough you don't see equal growth with both main characters so I enjoyed the story very much.
The secondary characters weren't as well developed, but they weren't one dimensional either. I'm really curious if we'll see a story with Patrick, Cassie or Josh(Jack's son) as main character. I think either of them would have great stories to tell.
The erotic and BDSM aspects were also done well. I didn't roll my eyes or cringed while reading it :D I loved that it really fit the characters and that it helped move the story along, they weren't thrown there just because it's what in demand right now.
All in all I'll be stalking this author and looking forward to more stories from her. A total win for me :)
October 20, 2015
4 Stars – 3 Flames
Wow! I wasn’t really sure if I was going to like this after reading the Epilogue, but man, I’ve got to say that I really liked this one. It wasn’t your typical Dom/Sub relationship, nor was the storyline. No. This felt, real. Like this is someone’s real life story being told.
Lilly is a true submissive, through and through. Even after she escapes an extremely unhealthy BDSM relationship, she struggles to find herself and where she belongs. Jack, a widower who is still grieving after a year, has no choice but to embrace his dominance in order to “help” Lilly come to terms with who she really is and what she really wants. Blah Blah Blah…you get the idea. You’ve read the blurb, but here’s what you didn’t read yet…
The struggle to love again after losing a spouse is hands down one of the hardest things, ever. Adding the element of a Dom/Sub relationship is just hammering in a few extra nails in the coffin. So when Jack offers to help Lilly with her demons, it wasn’t a stretch that Lilly looks just like his wife but younger. That may have been the ONLY way he would have even considered an agreement to dominate again.
Being young and naïve go hand in hand. So when Lilly is taken advantage of by an older dominate, it’s not surprising, right? The other non-surprising piece? He wasn’t even a good dominant. He made multiple mistakes with “teaching” her BDSM and left her completely scared. Yet, she remained curious enough to not give up on the lifestyle she was so drawn to.
It’s for these reasons that I feel in love with this book. It’s more than a story; it’s a journey. We get to read how Jack and Lilly help teach other how to love again, how to except who they are and most importantly how to become whole again.
Now…a plea to the author. PLEASE, I beg you!!!!! I NEED Patrick and Cassie to have their own story. I’m on my knees!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*I was given a copy of this book as a gift from The JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! I wasn’t really sure if I was going to like this after reading the Epilogue, but man, I’ve got to say that I really liked this one. It wasn’t your typical Dom/Sub relationship, nor was the storyline. No. This felt, real. Like this is someone’s real life story being told.
Lilly is a true submissive, through and through. Even after she escapes an extremely unhealthy BDSM relationship, she struggles to find herself and where she belongs. Jack, a widower who is still grieving after a year, has no choice but to embrace his dominance in order to “help” Lilly come to terms with who she really is and what she really wants. Blah Blah Blah…you get the idea. You’ve read the blurb, but here’s what you didn’t read yet…
The struggle to love again after losing a spouse is hands down one of the hardest things, ever. Adding the element of a Dom/Sub relationship is just hammering in a few extra nails in the coffin. So when Jack offers to help Lilly with her demons, it wasn’t a stretch that Lilly looks just like his wife but younger. That may have been the ONLY way he would have even considered an agreement to dominate again.
Being young and naïve go hand in hand. So when Lilly is taken advantage of by an older dominate, it’s not surprising, right? The other non-surprising piece? He wasn’t even a good dominant. He made multiple mistakes with “teaching” her BDSM and left her completely scared. Yet, she remained curious enough to not give up on the lifestyle she was so drawn to.
It’s for these reasons that I feel in love with this book. It’s more than a story; it’s a journey. We get to read how Jack and Lilly help teach other how to love again, how to except who they are and most importantly how to become whole again.
Now…a plea to the author. PLEASE, I beg you!!!!! I NEED Patrick and Cassie to have their own story. I’m on my knees!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*I was given a copy of this book as a gift from The JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
April 16, 2018 Recommended by Annabel Joseph... I'm in! :)
November 22, 2015
4.5 Stars
Confession time: I’ll read anything Rebecca Grace Allen writes. ANYTHING. She's burst onto the contemporary romance scene in a HUGE way with her 'Portland Rebel' Series (where she sexifies scientific theories—a woman after my own heart!). Now RGA is taking readers on another erotic romance journey with her new series, 'Legally Bound'. The first novel, His Contract, explores how a safe, sane, and consensual BDSM relationship can heal two individuals recovering from past trauma.
From beginning to end, 'His Contract' is witty, gripping, and emotional. As is her signature style, RGA is able to build a world that the reader effortlessly steps into. The characters are so compelling, that we could easily know them as our family members or friends. I loved every moment of reading this!
***Read the full review at We So Nerdy!
Confession time: I’ll read anything Rebecca Grace Allen writes. ANYTHING. She's burst onto the contemporary romance scene in a HUGE way with her 'Portland Rebel' Series (where she sexifies scientific theories—a woman after my own heart!). Now RGA is taking readers on another erotic romance journey with her new series, 'Legally Bound'. The first novel, His Contract, explores how a safe, sane, and consensual BDSM relationship can heal two individuals recovering from past trauma.
From beginning to end, 'His Contract' is witty, gripping, and emotional. As is her signature style, RGA is able to build a world that the reader effortlessly steps into. The characters are so compelling, that we could easily know them as our family members or friends. I loved every moment of reading this!
***Read the full review at We So Nerdy!
October 26, 2023
3.5– too much about the dead wife for a romance
March 26, 2016
Christian Grey who? Move on over Christian because there’s a true Dominate in town and his name is Jack Archer and he could teach you a thing or two. *wink* THIS is what a Dominate/submissive book is supposed to be all about!
I was not anticipating loving this book as much as I did! I honestly didn’t know what to expect going into it because with my previous experience with this authors other books I’ve read, there hasn’t been much dealing with this type of story (specifically BDSM). I’ve read her PORTLAND REBELS series and I wasn’t too thrilled with those storylines, but let me tell you, she BLEW ME OUT OF THE WATER with HIS CONTRACT! I couldn’t put it down! Every page had me bound and tied up *wink* so I couldn’t walk away! I was hooked in the first 5 pages…almost in tears! That says a lot about an author if she can conjure up your emotions that quickly. Kudos to you Rebecca…you had me on an emotional rollercoaster right away!
Plot/Storyline:
Jack and Lilly’s story was completely unique and like nothing else I’ve ever read. I would consider it a “Friends with BDSM” type of book *wink*.Their story was about healing…they were able to find strength in each other and rediscover who they are as individuals and eventually as a couple. In doing so, they were able to embrace their true Dom/sub natures…which was s*xy to read about *wink*. The playroom scenes…HAWT! Jack is quite a creative Dom.
Book Boyfriend Material: Most definitely! Jack was the absolute perfect man to help “rebuild” Lilly. He was everything she needed him to be inside and outside of their “playroom” *wink*. Jack, just like Lilly, has been broken by certain things in life, but as the book develops, we get to see a Jack that I’m guessing not even his wife got to see.
Book Girlfriend Material: Yes! She is so ridiculously sweet and caring; I would love to have her as a friend! She appears to the outside world like an ordinary girl, but on the inside she is broken, but as the book goes on we get to see the courageous Lilly that is hidden underneath all those wounds. I find that she could teach a woman a thing or two about overcoming life’s obstacles. She is truly a strong character by the end of the book.
Writing Style: Amazing! I love the dual POV’s. It helped develop the plot even more and also made you that much more invested in both characters.
Steam Factor: The pace of the storyline/plot was perfect. There was a steadiness to the storyline that made you keep reading to see what was going to develop next for Jack and Lilly and what obstacles were going to come about...most of which were obstacles of their own doing (internal battles).
Overall: 5 stars
Reading this book was like getting the privilege of watching a famous artist create a masterpiece and only you get to see it while it’s happening.
Reading these two characters develop throughout the book was inspiring! I loved every minute of their story! Their chemistry smoldered off the pages. Most the time I’m not a fan of books with the main couple having such a huge age difference, but I got right on board with this one from the beginning! The fact that Lilly was 28 and Jack was 44 (45 at the end of the book), didn’t bother me in the least. Their relationship was amazing to watch develop…they literally completed each other. Jack’s dominance was the perfect balance for Lilly’s submissive side. The age difference meant nothing when they fulfilled each other’s needs in such a way that you completely forgot about it.
Words cannot fully express how much I loved this book! At its simplest form, this book was about a relationship evolving when that wasn’t the plan. These 2 characters clearly had a physical chemistry, but the feelings came later. It was beautiful to read their feelings unfold. <3
***One last thing for the author…PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE tell me the next book in this series is about Patrick and Cassie (bc there’s gotta be another book…it says “Book 1” on the cover of HIS CONTRACT) I would LOVE to read their story! *crossing fingers*
I was not anticipating loving this book as much as I did! I honestly didn’t know what to expect going into it because with my previous experience with this authors other books I’ve read, there hasn’t been much dealing with this type of story (specifically BDSM). I’ve read her PORTLAND REBELS series and I wasn’t too thrilled with those storylines, but let me tell you, she BLEW ME OUT OF THE WATER with HIS CONTRACT! I couldn’t put it down! Every page had me bound and tied up *wink* so I couldn’t walk away! I was hooked in the first 5 pages…almost in tears! That says a lot about an author if she can conjure up your emotions that quickly. Kudos to you Rebecca…you had me on an emotional rollercoaster right away!
Plot/Storyline:
Jack and Lilly’s story was completely unique and like nothing else I’ve ever read. I would consider it a “Friends with BDSM” type of book *wink*.Their story was about healing…they were able to find strength in each other and rediscover who they are as individuals and eventually as a couple. In doing so, they were able to embrace their true Dom/sub natures…which was s*xy to read about *wink*. The playroom scenes…HAWT! Jack is quite a creative Dom.
Book Boyfriend Material: Most definitely! Jack was the absolute perfect man to help “rebuild” Lilly. He was everything she needed him to be inside and outside of their “playroom” *wink*. Jack, just like Lilly, has been broken by certain things in life, but as the book develops, we get to see a Jack that I’m guessing not even his wife got to see.
Book Girlfriend Material: Yes! She is so ridiculously sweet and caring; I would love to have her as a friend! She appears to the outside world like an ordinary girl, but on the inside she is broken, but as the book goes on we get to see the courageous Lilly that is hidden underneath all those wounds. I find that she could teach a woman a thing or two about overcoming life’s obstacles. She is truly a strong character by the end of the book.
Writing Style: Amazing! I love the dual POV’s. It helped develop the plot even more and also made you that much more invested in both characters.
Steam Factor: The pace of the storyline/plot was perfect. There was a steadiness to the storyline that made you keep reading to see what was going to develop next for Jack and Lilly and what obstacles were going to come about...most of which were obstacles of their own doing (internal battles).
Overall: 5 stars
Reading this book was like getting the privilege of watching a famous artist create a masterpiece and only you get to see it while it’s happening.
Reading these two characters develop throughout the book was inspiring! I loved every minute of their story! Their chemistry smoldered off the pages. Most the time I’m not a fan of books with the main couple having such a huge age difference, but I got right on board with this one from the beginning! The fact that Lilly was 28 and Jack was 44 (45 at the end of the book), didn’t bother me in the least. Their relationship was amazing to watch develop…they literally completed each other. Jack’s dominance was the perfect balance for Lilly’s submissive side. The age difference meant nothing when they fulfilled each other’s needs in such a way that you completely forgot about it.
Words cannot fully express how much I loved this book! At its simplest form, this book was about a relationship evolving when that wasn’t the plan. These 2 characters clearly had a physical chemistry, but the feelings came later. It was beautiful to read their feelings unfold. <3
***One last thing for the author…PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE tell me the next book in this series is about Patrick and Cassie (bc there’s gotta be another book…it says “Book 1” on the cover of HIS CONTRACT) I would LOVE to read their story! *crossing fingers*
January 2, 2016
4-1/2 stars.
This review also appears on Pretty Sassy Cool.
I think you all already know that I love everything Rebecca Grace Allen writes. I've been a fan of hers for a long time, and I am inspired with each new title she releases. With every new book, I go back and forth on which is my favorite. I liked The Hierarchy of Needs a little bit more than this one, but really, it's a toss up. I think it comes down to the fact that I'm not crazy into BDsm books. But though this story definitely has realistic, amazing BDsm, at its heart, it's a love story, and that's what I love the most about His Contract.
After being treated horribly by her former Dom, Lily moved to Boston, where she meets Harvard Law Professor Jack Archer. This story takes place a year after Jack's beloved wife passed away, and he's not looking for any kind of relationship--no matter how short--when he sees Lily. With their practically instantaneous and undeniable chemistry, they decide to embark on a short-term relationship, with a contract that they keep extending. You know what happens from there. Feelings. And all the feels.
The characters are so realistic, and I really liked both of them, which is sometimes a surprise for me. I love that Jack was protective of Lily from the beginning and that he showed her what a real Dom/sub relationship should be. He's smart and sweet, and yeah, totally hot.
The story progressed perfectly, and I can't wait to read the next story in this series, especially if it's focused on Patrick and Cassie. My only complaint is that Lily resembled Jack's late wife, and that I wanted more of them.
His Contract is an incredibly well-written love story with chemistry in spades and characters you'll fall for. It's a must read, regardless of if you're into BDsm or not.
This review also appears on Pretty Sassy Cool.
I think you all already know that I love everything Rebecca Grace Allen writes. I've been a fan of hers for a long time, and I am inspired with each new title she releases. With every new book, I go back and forth on which is my favorite. I liked The Hierarchy of Needs a little bit more than this one, but really, it's a toss up. I think it comes down to the fact that I'm not crazy into BDsm books. But though this story definitely has realistic, amazing BDsm, at its heart, it's a love story, and that's what I love the most about His Contract.
After being treated horribly by her former Dom, Lily moved to Boston, where she meets Harvard Law Professor Jack Archer. This story takes place a year after Jack's beloved wife passed away, and he's not looking for any kind of relationship--no matter how short--when he sees Lily. With their practically instantaneous and undeniable chemistry, they decide to embark on a short-term relationship, with a contract that they keep extending. You know what happens from there. Feelings. And all the feels.
The characters are so realistic, and I really liked both of them, which is sometimes a surprise for me. I love that Jack was protective of Lily from the beginning and that he showed her what a real Dom/sub relationship should be. He's smart and sweet, and yeah, totally hot.
The story progressed perfectly, and I can't wait to read the next story in this series, especially if it's focused on Patrick and Cassie. My only complaint is that Lily resembled Jack's late wife, and that I wanted more of them.
His Contract is an incredibly well-written love story with chemistry in spades and characters you'll fall for. It's a must read, regardless of if you're into BDsm or not.
October 14, 2015
As soulful as it is sexy. This book is everything 50 Shades wanted to be, and wasn't!
This book starts with an unexpectedly heartbreaking scene between the hero and his dying wife. I immediately wanted a HEA for Jack. His bone-deep decency was apparent from the very beginning, and I trusted him, which is key for a Dom. However, too many BDSM books show a guy who is controlling and cold for a Dom. I'm just not into that whole "it's sexy to give a woman a diet and exercise schedule" thing. Jack was much more my type: authoritative but protective and caring, as well as respectful of women and a solidly good father.
Lilly was intriguing: the author walked a very delicate line with showing her previous BDSM history as arousing but also abusive. The author completely pulled it off, making me see exactly how Lilly could be intrigued and intimidated by re entering that world. However, she was a touch weak for my taste overall, though she did grow in confidence throughout the book.
The story kept me flipping pages with perfectly drawn tension throughout. Every conflict was perfectly in character and I was chewing off my nails, not sure how a natural resolution was possible. I love that not a single turn seemed contrived for the purposes of the plot.
And the sex scenes...holy CRAP how have I gotten this far without mentioning that they are abundant and HOT AS FREAKING LAVA! I love all the variation in the bondage and sex toys scenarios and...oooh, you thought I was going to spoiler there, didn't you? Suffice to say this is a one stop superstore of sexy times scenarios and Allen is a master at writing them.
4.5 stars for a steamy BDSM erotica with all the heart and depth of a mainstream romance.
This book starts with an unexpectedly heartbreaking scene between the hero and his dying wife. I immediately wanted a HEA for Jack. His bone-deep decency was apparent from the very beginning, and I trusted him, which is key for a Dom. However, too many BDSM books show a guy who is controlling and cold for a Dom. I'm just not into that whole "it's sexy to give a woman a diet and exercise schedule" thing. Jack was much more my type: authoritative but protective and caring, as well as respectful of women and a solidly good father.
Lilly was intriguing: the author walked a very delicate line with showing her previous BDSM history as arousing but also abusive. The author completely pulled it off, making me see exactly how Lilly could be intrigued and intimidated by re entering that world. However, she was a touch weak for my taste overall, though she did grow in confidence throughout the book.
The story kept me flipping pages with perfectly drawn tension throughout. Every conflict was perfectly in character and I was chewing off my nails, not sure how a natural resolution was possible. I love that not a single turn seemed contrived for the purposes of the plot.
And the sex scenes...holy CRAP how have I gotten this far without mentioning that they are abundant and HOT AS FREAKING LAVA! I love all the variation in the bondage and sex toys scenarios and...oooh, you thought I was going to spoiler there, didn't you? Suffice to say this is a one stop superstore of sexy times scenarios and Allen is a master at writing them.
4.5 stars for a steamy BDSM erotica with all the heart and depth of a mainstream romance.
March 10, 2016
**Five Stars**
“His Contract”, by Rebecca Grace Allen was a revelation. I LOVED everything about it; the writing, the characters, plot development and the sweet, sexy love story. The story was plausible, realistic and almost a primer on how to craft perfect BDSM scenes.
This is the story of Jack, a widower with college aged son who deeply grieves the loss of his wife and submissive. He has a support system of people pushing to keep him going, but Jack seems to think his life as a lover and a dominant are over with the Eve’s death. Lilly is a paralegal who competed law school but never sat for the Bar because she was shaken after a failed (and abusive) relationship with a sadist who broke and humiliated her. Lilly flees to another city to hide from her former lover and build a new life for herself. She buries her desires as a submissive, deeming her surrender too dangerous to her self-esteem. A chance meeting (six degrees of separation) where each recognizes their counter-part in the other leads them on a journey of discovery of true BDSM and more.
This story may have some triggers for the sensitive as abuse disguised as play is described in flashback. Otherwise, I enthusiastically and wholeheartedly recommend this book. In fact, I predict I'll be re-reading it soon.
***I received a copy from the author through the BDSM group’s TPE bar, in exchange for an honest review***
“His Contract”, by Rebecca Grace Allen was a revelation. I LOVED everything about it; the writing, the characters, plot development and the sweet, sexy love story. The story was plausible, realistic and almost a primer on how to craft perfect BDSM scenes.
This is the story of Jack, a widower with college aged son who deeply grieves the loss of his wife and submissive. He has a support system of people pushing to keep him going, but Jack seems to think his life as a lover and a dominant are over with the Eve’s death. Lilly is a paralegal who competed law school but never sat for the Bar because she was shaken after a failed (and abusive) relationship with a sadist who broke and humiliated her. Lilly flees to another city to hide from her former lover and build a new life for herself. She buries her desires as a submissive, deeming her surrender too dangerous to her self-esteem. A chance meeting (six degrees of separation) where each recognizes their counter-part in the other leads them on a journey of discovery of true BDSM and more.
This story may have some triggers for the sensitive as abuse disguised as play is described in flashback. Otherwise, I enthusiastically and wholeheartedly recommend this book. In fact, I predict I'll be re-reading it soon.
***I received a copy from the author through the BDSM group’s TPE bar, in exchange for an honest review***
Want to read
December 31, 2018I just finished an Advanced Readers Copy of Her Claim, the second book in the Legally Bound Series byRebecca Grace Allen, I loved it so much I immediately went to AMAZON to purchase the first book, His Contract, and guess what......ITS ON SALE for just .99
#BDSM #EroticRomance #BookLovers #ContemporaryFiction
Grab it while it's #OnSale
#OneClick -
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#BDSM #EroticRomance #BookLovers #ContemporaryFiction
Grab it while it's #OnSale
#OneClick -
my facebook post
September 3, 2015
You know what I didn't like about this book? The spelling of the female protagonist's name. That's it. Love the name, but prefer Lily. That's literally the only "bad" thing I have to say about RGA's latest offering.
The characters are well-developed and likeable (I'm hoping for more about Jack's best friend, Patrick), and, oh, the character development! The pacing was spot-on, the angst just right, and the sex scenes...well, let's just say I don't advise reading them in public. Ms. Allen's newest series is off to a phenomenal start.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The characters are well-developed and likeable (I'm hoping for more about Jack's best friend, Patrick), and, oh, the character development! The pacing was spot-on, the angst just right, and the sex scenes...well, let's just say I don't advise reading them in public. Ms. Allen's newest series is off to a phenomenal start.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2018
♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Jack and Lilly Forever Stars
Sometimes you just find an author whose writing style, characters, and storylines click for you. Rebecca Grace Allen is currently that author for me. As soon as I finished reading Her Claim, I knew that I had to get my hands on His Contract. This is maybe one of the best life choices I've made in quite a while. It's not often that I find a book I want to re-read as soon as I've finished the final word, but this was one of those books.
The Story. Jack Archer has been grieving the passing of his wife for years. The couple shared a deep connection of dominance, submission and trust. Lilly has had her trust in the dance between doms and subs broken. Her emotionally abusive destroyed her confidence. A shared friend group brings them together. Agreeing to a contract the couple decide to meet each other's needs. The only rules: keep it discreet and no feelings. Some things refused to be subject to rules. Can Jack and Lilly survive a breech in contract?
The Good.
→I could really, really relate to Lilly. Something about having your confidence destroyed by a crappy ex really rings true. The thing I loved though was that even though she was definitely scared she was still a fighter. She did what she needed to do to build herself back up again. She wasn't dependant on Jack to do this. Instead she knew she had his quiet support.
→Something about your partner being proud of you is like cocaine to me. It's like the ultimate display of love, respect, and genuine awe over what and who that person is. I could actually feel Jack's pride in Lilly.
→Jack and Lilly were so honest. Both with each other but also as characters. I love consistency in characters. So while they both showed an incredible amount of growth they really remained true to their characteristics and values.
→I found them so real. They both messed up. Badly at some parts. Instead of it being a complete and total melt down it lead to very difficult but honest conversations. They handled everything in their relationship like actual adults. It wasn't easy and had some brutal moments but it was real life.
→Jack's relationship with his son was really touching. Their dynamic was one of the most interesting and compelling outside of Jack and Lilly.
The Bad.
→Does not exist for me. It was a homerun. 5/5. Would re-read right now if I wasn't at work ignoring my work to write this review.
The Smutty.
→So fantastic. The emotional and physical connection between Jack and Lilly was so beautiful. I could legitimately feel it.
→The. Dirty. Talk.
→I loved, loved, loved the negotiation and respect that Jack and Lilly had for each other. It was so genuine. This was a good example of realistic kink in fiction. As far as I'm concerned RGA smashed it out of the park with this one.
Sometimes you just find an author whose writing style, characters, and storylines click for you. Rebecca Grace Allen is currently that author for me. As soon as I finished reading Her Claim, I knew that I had to get my hands on His Contract. This is maybe one of the best life choices I've made in quite a while. It's not often that I find a book I want to re-read as soon as I've finished the final word, but this was one of those books.
The Story. Jack Archer has been grieving the passing of his wife for years. The couple shared a deep connection of dominance, submission and trust. Lilly has had her trust in the dance between doms and subs broken. Her emotionally abusive destroyed her confidence. A shared friend group brings them together. Agreeing to a contract the couple decide to meet each other's needs. The only rules: keep it discreet and no feelings. Some things refused to be subject to rules. Can Jack and Lilly survive a breech in contract?
The Good.
→I could really, really relate to Lilly. Something about having your confidence destroyed by a crappy ex really rings true. The thing I loved though was that even though she was definitely scared she was still a fighter. She did what she needed to do to build herself back up again. She wasn't dependant on Jack to do this. Instead she knew she had his quiet support.
→Something about your partner being proud of you is like cocaine to me. It's like the ultimate display of love, respect, and genuine awe over what and who that person is. I could actually feel Jack's pride in Lilly.
→Jack and Lilly were so honest. Both with each other but also as characters. I love consistency in characters. So while they both showed an incredible amount of growth they really remained true to their characteristics and values.
→I found them so real. They both messed up. Badly at some parts. Instead of it being a complete and total melt down it lead to very difficult but honest conversations. They handled everything in their relationship like actual adults. It wasn't easy and had some brutal moments but it was real life.
→Jack's relationship with his son was really touching. Their dynamic was one of the most interesting and compelling outside of Jack and Lilly.
The Bad.
→Does not exist for me. It was a homerun. 5/5. Would re-read right now if I wasn't at work ignoring my work to write this review.
The Smutty.
→So fantastic. The emotional and physical connection between Jack and Lilly was so beautiful. I could legitimately feel it.
→The. Dirty. Talk.
→I loved, loved, loved the negotiation and respect that Jack and Lilly had for each other. It was so genuine. This was a good example of realistic kink in fiction. As far as I'm concerned RGA smashed it out of the park with this one.
April 24, 2018
His Contract (Legally Bound #1) by Rebecca Grace Allen
4 stars
M/F Romance BDSM
Triggers: Cancer, incorrect BDSM, correct BDSM
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Jack is tired of being sad. He's tired of missing his love and tired of missing his son. While he has a great job and loves it, has great friends who coax him out of his house every once in a while, the promise he made to his wife haunts him. One night, while he's hanging out with his friends, he meets Lilly. She's bright and fresh, but has a haunted look that Jack wants to immediately figure out and fix.
Lilly is working hard and trying even harder to leave her past behind her. With her brother close and loving her new job, she thinks that she can move past it. But, despite her wishes, the dreams that haunt her continue. Lilly is out with her brother and friends when she meets Jack. She is drawn to him, but doesn't quite understand why...until she does.
This is a story about learning to trust yourself, forgive yourself and develop an inner strength that nobody can take from you. The story is slightly overdone, but the relationship aspects that you get to see Jack and Lilly go through are spot on - they both need to learn these things again and they each have something to teach the other.
It was nice to see the progression and I was glad that it had more to it than just boy meets girl, they squabble about the age difference, both fall in love. It made the complexity of the relationship more realistic.
I can't wait to see who gets the next book.
4 stars
M/F Romance BDSM
Triggers: Cancer, incorrect BDSM, correct BDSM
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Jack is tired of being sad. He's tired of missing his love and tired of missing his son. While he has a great job and loves it, has great friends who coax him out of his house every once in a while, the promise he made to his wife haunts him. One night, while he's hanging out with his friends, he meets Lilly. She's bright and fresh, but has a haunted look that Jack wants to immediately figure out and fix.
Lilly is working hard and trying even harder to leave her past behind her. With her brother close and loving her new job, she thinks that she can move past it. But, despite her wishes, the dreams that haunt her continue. Lilly is out with her brother and friends when she meets Jack. She is drawn to him, but doesn't quite understand why...until she does.
This is a story about learning to trust yourself, forgive yourself and develop an inner strength that nobody can take from you. The story is slightly overdone, but the relationship aspects that you get to see Jack and Lilly go through are spot on - they both need to learn these things again and they each have something to teach the other.
It was nice to see the progression and I was glad that it had more to it than just boy meets girl, they squabble about the age difference, both fall in love. It made the complexity of the relationship more realistic.
I can't wait to see who gets the next book.
April 23, 2018
This is my first book by Rebecca and I loved it. Lilly and Jack's relationship is one of older man younger woman with BDSM involved. Lily was treated horrible with her first dom and is unsure if she wants this lifestyle again but that was before Jack. Has has recently lost his wife to cancer and after a year he still hasn't dated anyone until Lilly. The minute he saw her he knew she was special and they soon became dom/sub.This book was great I didn't want to put it down. I recommend it to everyone.
Want to read
April 15, 2019🎁 FREE on iBooks today (4/14/2019)! 🎁
May 22, 2018
He's 44, she's 28. He's a Dom who lost his wife the year before to cancer and she's a sub who just got out of a relationship where her Dom treated her badly. They were supposed to have one night but each decided they didn't want it to end so hero drew up a contract that she'd be his sub for three months. Main issue was to keep it a secret from family and friends since they weren't sure how they'd react to their relationship.
October 17, 2020
CW: past intimate partner violence
I started out really enjoying this but my enjoyment steadily declined thanks to various plot and characterization choices. By 65% I was rooting for Lilly to find someone new. And then at 83% the author chose to bring Lilly’s abuser on page. Not only did he fly across the country to “surprise” her, she actually listened to him and contemplated going back to him, in part because Jack had recently broken her heart. That proved she hadn’t all dealt with the abuse or trauma, no matter what she ultimately chose.
At the end of the day, Lilly needed therapy, not a Dom. And Jack had no business playing at her Dom when he re-traumatized her again and again by not taking her needs into account or knowing the whole history of her relationship. It was a major stretch of the imagination to ever believe he could push her limits without triggering her. Of course he failed! He thought because he was a Dom, he could just reintroduce things that had been hard limits in the middle of play without ever having a conversation with her beforehand or knowing why they were hard limits. But his only experience before Lilly was with his wife and he did not figure out he was Dominant until 10 years into their marriage. He did not have the experience to walk someone reeling from an abusive relationship through a BDSM relationship, even if he drew up a contract. It was not great representation, especially when we’re supposed to see him as wonderful in contrast to her previous abusive Dom. If any Dom behaved the way he did, the person should run in the opposite direction. He had not earned her trust or the right to make those decisions and part of why she returned for more is because that was the pattern in her abusive relationship. Sure, Jack is a “good” guy overall but he behaved abominably and I did not want them to be together in the end.
I also wasn’t keen on how his grief over the death of his wife was depicted and had a whole bunch of questions about his best friend Patrick, who is likely a future hero in this series. I also didn’t appreciate the way Cassie’s Latina heritage was represented. Her coworker makes jokes that are rooted in stereotypes and makes fun of her when she lapses in to Spanish. I felt awful for her, especially since I think this is supposed to show office rapport between Lilly, Gabe, and Cassie.
Lilly’s desire to be a lawyer stems from her brother’s trauma and this felt completely unnecessary to me. LGBTQ+ people’s pain should not be there to provide fodder for straight characters. Not to mention that’s not even the kind of firm she works at. Almost all of the legal aspects of this plot made no sense to me—how big her role was in the case as a paralegal, that the Boston newspapers would cover a patent law case with so much coverage, that Lilly’s photo would be in the paper. When have you seen the photo of a paralegal in court case coverage?!
Character notes: Jack is 44 and a law professor. Lilly is 28 and a paralegal. They’re both white. This is set in Boston. Lilly’s cat is named Rumbles. Jack has a 22 year old son Josh.
CW: past intimate partner violence (), stalking , death of wife one year prior (cancer, her death is in the first chapter, they were married 25 years), grief, flashbacks/nightmares, hero outs heroine as a sub to his best friend without her knowledge, alcohol, alcohol dependency (not explicitly stated as concern for alcoholism but it seems to be heading in that direction), slut-shaming, heroine’s brother was , past homophobic slurs toward secondary character, homophobic parent, ableist language (lots of crazy, which felt insensitive given the abusive ex’s gaslighting), heroine gets bronchitis (triggering for hero because of his wife’s illness)
I started out really enjoying this but my enjoyment steadily declined thanks to various plot and characterization choices. By 65% I was rooting for Lilly to find someone new. And then at 83% the author chose to bring Lilly’s abuser on page. Not only did he fly across the country to “surprise” her, she actually listened to him and contemplated going back to him, in part because Jack had recently broken her heart. That proved she hadn’t all dealt with the abuse or trauma, no matter what she ultimately chose.
At the end of the day, Lilly needed therapy, not a Dom. And Jack had no business playing at her Dom when he re-traumatized her again and again by not taking her needs into account or knowing the whole history of her relationship. It was a major stretch of the imagination to ever believe he could push her limits without triggering her. Of course he failed! He thought because he was a Dom, he could just reintroduce things that had been hard limits in the middle of play without ever having a conversation with her beforehand or knowing why they were hard limits. But his only experience before Lilly was with his wife and he did not figure out he was Dominant until 10 years into their marriage. He did not have the experience to walk someone reeling from an abusive relationship through a BDSM relationship, even if he drew up a contract. It was not great representation, especially when we’re supposed to see him as wonderful in contrast to her previous abusive Dom. If any Dom behaved the way he did, the person should run in the opposite direction. He had not earned her trust or the right to make those decisions and part of why she returned for more is because that was the pattern in her abusive relationship. Sure, Jack is a “good” guy overall but he behaved abominably and I did not want them to be together in the end.
I also wasn’t keen on how his grief over the death of his wife was depicted and had a whole bunch of questions about his best friend Patrick, who is likely a future hero in this series. I also didn’t appreciate the way Cassie’s Latina heritage was represented. Her coworker makes jokes that are rooted in stereotypes and makes fun of her when she lapses in to Spanish. I felt awful for her, especially since I think this is supposed to show office rapport between Lilly, Gabe, and Cassie.
Lilly’s desire to be a lawyer stems from her brother’s trauma and this felt completely unnecessary to me. LGBTQ+ people’s pain should not be there to provide fodder for straight characters. Not to mention that’s not even the kind of firm she works at. Almost all of the legal aspects of this plot made no sense to me—how big her role was in the case as a paralegal, that the Boston newspapers would cover a patent law case with so much coverage, that Lilly’s photo would be in the paper. When have you seen the photo of a paralegal in court case coverage?!
Character notes: Jack is 44 and a law professor. Lilly is 28 and a paralegal. They’re both white. This is set in Boston. Lilly’s cat is named Rumbles. Jack has a 22 year old son Josh.
CW: past intimate partner violence (), stalking , death of wife one year prior (cancer, her death is in the first chapter, they were married 25 years), grief, flashbacks/nightmares, hero outs heroine as a sub to his best friend without her knowledge, alcohol, alcohol dependency (not explicitly stated as concern for alcoholism but it seems to be heading in that direction), slut-shaming, heroine’s brother was , past homophobic slurs toward secondary character, homophobic parent, ableist language (lots of crazy, which felt insensitive given the abusive ex’s gaslighting), heroine gets bronchitis (triggering for hero because of his wife’s illness)
November 11, 2015
His Contract, Rebecca Grace Allen
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance,
This was a perfect read for me yesterday. I wanted some romance but with a solid story line, something to really pull at my emotions. This delivered all of that.
I loved Lilly, understood just how badly Damien had hurt her, not physically but emotionally. That can be just as bad and have ramifications that stay for life. Poor Lilly, she was devastated when he left her, just before her Bar exam. Since then she’s moved, lives nearer her brother and has a great group of friends that she works with. She’s still employed within the legal field, but hasn’t been able to make herself take the Bar exam. All her ambitions, her dreams, centred on that and when her confidence was so shaken its had a huge impact on her. No-one except her best friend knows what happened, and Lilly feels ashamed of her kink, of her submissive needs and has stayed away from that. Her friend doesn’t understand that world either and encourages Lilly to stay out of it.
Then she meets Jack, older man, widowed and who’s younger brother is best friends with her brother. They all go out as a group, and Jack can see from the way she reacts to something that Lilly is a Submissive, can see it in her demeanour. Somehow they begin to play, but with contracts that stipulate its play only, and to be kept private, and that suits them both. Lilly can see how attractive Jack is, and after her last disaster she wants to protect her heart. Jack doesn’t want a relationship, feels that would be disloyal to his wife and yet he needs to let his dominant side out. It suits them both for a while but emotions aren’t so easy to control as words on a piece of paper. The sex scenes between them were hot, sensual and it showed a different side to both of them, especially Jack, and it was clear to see that they both so enjoyed what they did. Its not heavy on whippings kind of BDSM but one where everything is explained as it happens so we can see just why Jack does things, just why Lilly reacts as she does and how different it was from what her previous Dom did.
Its a lovely read, watching how slowly things change, how they grow to be more to each other and of course the barriers that prevent them. Its not only that Jack is a widower, that he’s so much older, that Lilly has had a bad past relationship, but also that thing of Kink being regarded by so many as distasteful, weird, unnatural – sad isn’t it when no-one else is hurt, when both parties want and need what they’re doing. Still, that’s the world we live in, and for both of them their professions could be at risk if word gets out about their sexual tastes. Personally I want a lawyer who’s good at the job, what they do in time off I don’t care, so long as its consensual, but I understand how precarious a line it is that some people have to tread.
When it goes wrong – well, its really sad, but very understandable the way they both react. I do like this down part in a book, don’t want it all to be happy, and could see this coming, but when it happens it’s still gutting, harrowing and I felt for both of them. They’ve both some looking inwards to do, some decisions to make and I enjoyed being there with them and seeing what tipped the balance.
I liked the addition of the legal case they were dealing with, brought some reality into the story, joined the private and the workplace and made everything knit together as well as just being plain interesting!
Stars: Five, a great read
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance,
This was a perfect read for me yesterday. I wanted some romance but with a solid story line, something to really pull at my emotions. This delivered all of that.
I loved Lilly, understood just how badly Damien had hurt her, not physically but emotionally. That can be just as bad and have ramifications that stay for life. Poor Lilly, she was devastated when he left her, just before her Bar exam. Since then she’s moved, lives nearer her brother and has a great group of friends that she works with. She’s still employed within the legal field, but hasn’t been able to make herself take the Bar exam. All her ambitions, her dreams, centred on that and when her confidence was so shaken its had a huge impact on her. No-one except her best friend knows what happened, and Lilly feels ashamed of her kink, of her submissive needs and has stayed away from that. Her friend doesn’t understand that world either and encourages Lilly to stay out of it.
Then she meets Jack, older man, widowed and who’s younger brother is best friends with her brother. They all go out as a group, and Jack can see from the way she reacts to something that Lilly is a Submissive, can see it in her demeanour. Somehow they begin to play, but with contracts that stipulate its play only, and to be kept private, and that suits them both. Lilly can see how attractive Jack is, and after her last disaster she wants to protect her heart. Jack doesn’t want a relationship, feels that would be disloyal to his wife and yet he needs to let his dominant side out. It suits them both for a while but emotions aren’t so easy to control as words on a piece of paper. The sex scenes between them were hot, sensual and it showed a different side to both of them, especially Jack, and it was clear to see that they both so enjoyed what they did. Its not heavy on whippings kind of BDSM but one where everything is explained as it happens so we can see just why Jack does things, just why Lilly reacts as she does and how different it was from what her previous Dom did.
Its a lovely read, watching how slowly things change, how they grow to be more to each other and of course the barriers that prevent them. Its not only that Jack is a widower, that he’s so much older, that Lilly has had a bad past relationship, but also that thing of Kink being regarded by so many as distasteful, weird, unnatural – sad isn’t it when no-one else is hurt, when both parties want and need what they’re doing. Still, that’s the world we live in, and for both of them their professions could be at risk if word gets out about their sexual tastes. Personally I want a lawyer who’s good at the job, what they do in time off I don’t care, so long as its consensual, but I understand how precarious a line it is that some people have to tread.
When it goes wrong – well, its really sad, but very understandable the way they both react. I do like this down part in a book, don’t want it all to be happy, and could see this coming, but when it happens it’s still gutting, harrowing and I felt for both of them. They’ve both some looking inwards to do, some decisions to make and I enjoyed being there with them and seeing what tipped the balance.
I liked the addition of the legal case they were dealing with, brought some reality into the story, joined the private and the workplace and made everything knit together as well as just being plain interesting!
Stars: Five, a great read
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
November 11, 2015
I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical when I started this one. I had read one of Ms. Allen’s books before but it was an NA Contemporary romance, and though I really enjoyed it I couldn’t help but wonder how she would fare in the BDSM realm, but I needn’t have worried because she put forth a beautiful story about two broken souls finding each other and working to heal their wounds through a Dom/sub relationship.
What actually impressed me the most, well there are two things but we’ll start here first, was the time that was taken to introduce both Jack and Lilly before they set eyes on each other. I got to know them both on almost every level and that deliberate attention on just how emotionally and mentally broken they were, despite their best efforts to hide it, was what totally drew me in. I wanted to see them become the vibrant, whole people I was catching glimpses of. And despite the few times when I wanted to throttle them both, I really liked them. Jack has a huge heart and truly wants everyone around him to be happy. Lilly has an inner strength that shines but she just can’t see it and I simply wanted them both to find happiness once more.
The second thing that impressed me is how Ms. Allen presented the BDSM lifestyle through Jack and Lilly’s relationship. These were not two people who knew how things worked these were two people who had experienced only a small, and in one case horrible, slice of the lifestyle, so they had to be re-introduced to it. Now I don’t claim to know all about the lifestyle, but the respect that Ms. Allen showed, via Jack, to give the reader an understanding of what the D/s relationship should be as well as who has the power in the relationship is truly commendable. The scenes in the playroom are hot, I swear my temperature spiked while reading them, but what I loved most was seeing how their relationship shifted, not only in it being strictly a D/s but how it went from Jack wanting to care and help Lilly heal to Lilly wanting to care for him. It was done gradually and though the bumps and potholes in the road to their HEA were spelled out from the beginning, it was interesting to see it would all unfold.
The writing and 3rd person dual POV were done very well, as was the pacing of the story, though I will admit to wishing that there had been a little bit more at the end, but there is no cliffhanger and as this is a first in series I can only hope that we will spend more time with Jack and Lilly in the next book, which I am really looking forward to. The supporting cast of characters were all fun to be around and gave a more indepth view of both Jack and Lilly. Nick, Gabe, Sam, Brady, Patrick and Cassie were all so well written that I want to read their stories (Note/hint hint: Nick and Gabe are married as are Sam and Brady but I’d love a prequel style novella to find out how they all got together). But it’s Patrick that I’m hoping will get his own book, and may be the next up on the list, because after that one scene towards the end of book there is definitely so much more going in his head that what anyone, even his closest friends know.
The Bottom Line: I adored this book and can’t wait for the next one!
~ ARC provided by Rock Star PR LC in exchange for an honest review ~
What actually impressed me the most, well there are two things but we’ll start here first, was the time that was taken to introduce both Jack and Lilly before they set eyes on each other. I got to know them both on almost every level and that deliberate attention on just how emotionally and mentally broken they were, despite their best efforts to hide it, was what totally drew me in. I wanted to see them become the vibrant, whole people I was catching glimpses of. And despite the few times when I wanted to throttle them both, I really liked them. Jack has a huge heart and truly wants everyone around him to be happy. Lilly has an inner strength that shines but she just can’t see it and I simply wanted them both to find happiness once more.
The second thing that impressed me is how Ms. Allen presented the BDSM lifestyle through Jack and Lilly’s relationship. These were not two people who knew how things worked these were two people who had experienced only a small, and in one case horrible, slice of the lifestyle, so they had to be re-introduced to it. Now I don’t claim to know all about the lifestyle, but the respect that Ms. Allen showed, via Jack, to give the reader an understanding of what the D/s relationship should be as well as who has the power in the relationship is truly commendable. The scenes in the playroom are hot, I swear my temperature spiked while reading them, but what I loved most was seeing how their relationship shifted, not only in it being strictly a D/s but how it went from Jack wanting to care and help Lilly heal to Lilly wanting to care for him. It was done gradually and though the bumps and potholes in the road to their HEA were spelled out from the beginning, it was interesting to see it would all unfold.
The writing and 3rd person dual POV were done very well, as was the pacing of the story, though I will admit to wishing that there had been a little bit more at the end, but there is no cliffhanger and as this is a first in series I can only hope that we will spend more time with Jack and Lilly in the next book, which I am really looking forward to. The supporting cast of characters were all fun to be around and gave a more indepth view of both Jack and Lilly. Nick, Gabe, Sam, Brady, Patrick and Cassie were all so well written that I want to read their stories (Note/hint hint: Nick and Gabe are married as are Sam and Brady but I’d love a prequel style novella to find out how they all got together). But it’s Patrick that I’m hoping will get his own book, and may be the next up on the list, because after that one scene towards the end of book there is definitely so much more going in his head that what anyone, even his closest friends know.
The Bottom Line: I adored this book and can’t wait for the next one!
~ ARC provided by Rock Star PR LC in exchange for an honest review ~
November 10, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by RockStar Lit PR in exchange for an honest review.
Here we have two broken people--a forty-four-year-old Harvard law professor, widower, father to a twenty-two-year-old grad student, and Dominant, Jack Archer, and a twenty-eight-year-old law school graduate who has yet to take the bar and current paralegal nursing a broken heart and a far more broken spirit, Lilly Sterling. Jack is still mourning the loss of his wife, and the only woman he ever practiced BDSM with, but his attention is snagged by Lilly the second he sees her outside a bar. There's an instant connection between them, but neither feels absolutely read to do anything about their mutual attraction.
One of the things I liked best about this love story was that the main characters took a completely different route in dealing with their attraction and their respective needs for BDSM partners. Neither of them were looking into finding replacements for the people they were involved with, and so when they do come across each other, the emotions that are evoked spark a chain reaction that neither of them could have really avoided, even if they strove to keep denying themselves what, and who, they wanted. There's a journey they take where trust and respect are earned. Along the way, they develop feelings for each other.
The bonus to the romance is the case that Lilly is researching for her law firm. It's really quite intriguing and you know that the one clue that's mentioned when she first tries to tackle the date involved in the case is the one that will crack the whole thing wide open. While being with Jack provides Lilly the opportunity to regain the confidence she once lost, it is her work on the case and the belief of Jack and those closest to her that bolsters her own belief that she is good at what she does. Lilly becoming a stronger and more put-together woman inside and outside of the playroom highlights that this was more than a story about sex.
I've read Rebecca Grace Allen's two previous novels and a short story that was part of a recent anthology, and each new work I come across makes me even more of a believer of her writing talent. But, without a shadow of a doubt, this latest series starter of hers is her best work to date. She's come up with a story that breaks your heart a couple of times but mends it each time and she's given us characters that you become emotionally invested in, wishing you could hold their hands each time they stumble. I'm unequivocally giving Legally Bound's His Contract five-plus stars because this is how erotic romance should be written. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by RockStar Lit PR in exchange for an honest review.
Here we have two broken people--a forty-four-year-old Harvard law professor, widower, father to a twenty-two-year-old grad student, and Dominant, Jack Archer, and a twenty-eight-year-old law school graduate who has yet to take the bar and current paralegal nursing a broken heart and a far more broken spirit, Lilly Sterling. Jack is still mourning the loss of his wife, and the only woman he ever practiced BDSM with, but his attention is snagged by Lilly the second he sees her outside a bar. There's an instant connection between them, but neither feels absolutely read to do anything about their mutual attraction.
One of the things I liked best about this love story was that the main characters took a completely different route in dealing with their attraction and their respective needs for BDSM partners. Neither of them were looking into finding replacements for the people they were involved with, and so when they do come across each other, the emotions that are evoked spark a chain reaction that neither of them could have really avoided, even if they strove to keep denying themselves what, and who, they wanted. There's a journey they take where trust and respect are earned. Along the way, they develop feelings for each other.
The bonus to the romance is the case that Lilly is researching for her law firm. It's really quite intriguing and you know that the one clue that's mentioned when she first tries to tackle the date involved in the case is the one that will crack the whole thing wide open. While being with Jack provides Lilly the opportunity to regain the confidence she once lost, it is her work on the case and the belief of Jack and those closest to her that bolsters her own belief that she is good at what she does. Lilly becoming a stronger and more put-together woman inside and outside of the playroom highlights that this was more than a story about sex.
I've read Rebecca Grace Allen's two previous novels and a short story that was part of a recent anthology, and each new work I come across makes me even more of a believer of her writing talent. But, without a shadow of a doubt, this latest series starter of hers is her best work to date. She's come up with a story that breaks your heart a couple of times but mends it each time and she's given us characters that you become emotionally invested in, wishing you could hold their hands each time they stumble. I'm unequivocally giving Legally Bound's His Contract five-plus stars because this is how erotic romance should be written. ♥
November 11, 2015
You married that one person that makes your life complete. You share many happy years together, raise a child, and an enchanting sexual relationship. Life couldn't be better in your eyes. But fate decides to throw you a curveball... your spouse is diagnosed with cancer and slowly is taken away. It's heart wrenching to say the least.
Your spouse's last wish is for you to find love again, but it's something that's too hard to accomplish. You miss the life you once had, beside the point that no one strikes your fancy.
That is until your best friend and brother consiper you to join them at a local bar. One look, one simple conversation and that person is the only one that captures your imagination. That spark you thought died is now on fire. You want to know more about this person, but something is keeping you at bay. The age difference for starters is a bit much, in your opinion.
This is Jack Archer's dilemma, he's ready to start moving on but the person he wants isn't someone that is about the same age as his son.
Lilly Sterling is attracted to Jack in more ways than one. She recently moved to Boston after a recent break up. The breakup was hard and life changing, but more importantly, it destroyed her self-esteem.
One night, Jack approaches her with a proposition that is too hard to resist. Their relationship will take place within the guidelines outlined in the contract, it's the perfect arrangement. At least on paper.
The more time the pair play together, the more they want from the relationship. The only problem is that Jack isn't ready for more and he feels she deserves someone closer to her age. Lilly wants Jack, but after he pushes her away, a blast from the past shows up that makes an offer she wasn't expecting.
Will she take the offer? Will Jack see realize his feelings for Lilly before it's too late? Or will Lilly surprise everyone and make a decision least imagined?
This is a captivating story that offers a second chance at love. Our hero gets a chance to love again after the death of his wife. Our heroine gets a real chance to discover the lifestyle that nearly broke her at the hands of her last boyfriend. Together they grow and learn that life is at their fingertips if they just take the jump. And I loved that Jack and Lilly have a group of family and friends that are there for them in good times and bad.
This is a very enjoyable read that captures your heart from beginning to end. I loved this couple and the journey they took. Theirs may not be a conventional relationship, but the passion they share is something anyone can relate to.
Your spouse's last wish is for you to find love again, but it's something that's too hard to accomplish. You miss the life you once had, beside the point that no one strikes your fancy.
That is until your best friend and brother consiper you to join them at a local bar. One look, one simple conversation and that person is the only one that captures your imagination. That spark you thought died is now on fire. You want to know more about this person, but something is keeping you at bay. The age difference for starters is a bit much, in your opinion.
This is Jack Archer's dilemma, he's ready to start moving on but the person he wants isn't someone that is about the same age as his son.
Lilly Sterling is attracted to Jack in more ways than one. She recently moved to Boston after a recent break up. The breakup was hard and life changing, but more importantly, it destroyed her self-esteem.
One night, Jack approaches her with a proposition that is too hard to resist. Their relationship will take place within the guidelines outlined in the contract, it's the perfect arrangement. At least on paper.
The more time the pair play together, the more they want from the relationship. The only problem is that Jack isn't ready for more and he feels she deserves someone closer to her age. Lilly wants Jack, but after he pushes her away, a blast from the past shows up that makes an offer she wasn't expecting.
Will she take the offer? Will Jack see realize his feelings for Lilly before it's too late? Or will Lilly surprise everyone and make a decision least imagined?
This is a captivating story that offers a second chance at love. Our hero gets a chance to love again after the death of his wife. Our heroine gets a real chance to discover the lifestyle that nearly broke her at the hands of her last boyfriend. Together they grow and learn that life is at their fingertips if they just take the jump. And I loved that Jack and Lilly have a group of family and friends that are there for them in good times and bad.
This is a very enjoyable read that captures your heart from beginning to end. I loved this couple and the journey they took. Theirs may not be a conventional relationship, but the passion they share is something anyone can relate to.
November 5, 2015
Overall Stars: 5 STARS
BDSM
Dominant
The Dominant must teach the submissive to trust again after being hurt in the past...
Harvard law professor Jack Archer once balanced his professional life with the private world of dominance, surrender and trust he shared with his wife. Since cancer stole her a year ago, finding love again—her final wish for him—is the furthest thing from his mind.
From his empty house to the classroom, grief follows his every move. Until he meets a young woman with shadows in her eyes even darker than his own.
Once a shining star at law school, Lilly Sterling’s dreams died when the Dom she trusted left her heartbroken and lost. She’s starting fresh in a new city as a paralegal, but meeting Jack reawakens all her old demons—and her lingering desires.
Jack offers to become Lilly’s mentor for both the courtroom and the playroom, but tells himself it’s not a relationship. Their carefully worded agreement guarantees that. But when their trial agreement starts heating up, both Jack and Lilly must decide what will tip the scales: the letter of the law...or love? (Amazon Blurb)
This is the type of novel that shows you the damaging effects, be it short or long term, from a relationship between a Dominant and a Submissive where the trust has been broken simply by leaving without explanation. It was heartbreaking to watch Lilly deal with her emotions and her daily struggles. Jack, on the other hand, lost his wife due to an illness – she was his perfect centre, the submissive that he needed for his Dominant side. Rebecca Grace Allen is the type of writer that surprises even the most reticent new reader who is curious about the BDSM genre. She has incorporated some amazing subjects such as trust, training, toys, and especially the creation of a special bond between two individuals who have dealt with pain and must learn to lean on each other to start healing. The chemistry between these two is scorching and undeniably tangible, you’d swear goosebumps were rising up your arms and chills over your entire body. Being the first novel in the Legally Bound series, His Contract is absolutely worth the read and I highly recommend it, even encourage adding the book to your to be read list and adding Rebecca Grace Allen to your to be watched list – I know I will be keeping an eye on this author as she keeps adding novels to her library, curious what she’ll deliver next.
.
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**
BDSM
Dominant
The Dominant must teach the submissive to trust again after being hurt in the past...
Harvard law professor Jack Archer once balanced his professional life with the private world of dominance, surrender and trust he shared with his wife. Since cancer stole her a year ago, finding love again—her final wish for him—is the furthest thing from his mind.
From his empty house to the classroom, grief follows his every move. Until he meets a young woman with shadows in her eyes even darker than his own.
Once a shining star at law school, Lilly Sterling’s dreams died when the Dom she trusted left her heartbroken and lost. She’s starting fresh in a new city as a paralegal, but meeting Jack reawakens all her old demons—and her lingering desires.
Jack offers to become Lilly’s mentor for both the courtroom and the playroom, but tells himself it’s not a relationship. Their carefully worded agreement guarantees that. But when their trial agreement starts heating up, both Jack and Lilly must decide what will tip the scales: the letter of the law...or love? (Amazon Blurb)
This is the type of novel that shows you the damaging effects, be it short or long term, from a relationship between a Dominant and a Submissive where the trust has been broken simply by leaving without explanation. It was heartbreaking to watch Lilly deal with her emotions and her daily struggles. Jack, on the other hand, lost his wife due to an illness – she was his perfect centre, the submissive that he needed for his Dominant side. Rebecca Grace Allen is the type of writer that surprises even the most reticent new reader who is curious about the BDSM genre. She has incorporated some amazing subjects such as trust, training, toys, and especially the creation of a special bond between two individuals who have dealt with pain and must learn to lean on each other to start healing. The chemistry between these two is scorching and undeniably tangible, you’d swear goosebumps were rising up your arms and chills over your entire body. Being the first novel in the Legally Bound series, His Contract is absolutely worth the read and I highly recommend it, even encourage adding the book to your to be read list and adding Rebecca Grace Allen to your to be watched list – I know I will be keeping an eye on this author as she keeps adding novels to her library, curious what she’ll deliver next.
.
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**
October 29, 2015
ARC received for an honest review.
Holy Hot Tamale! When I received this from Rock Star Lit., I was a little nervous that there would be too much legal lawyer stuff that I may not like it. I couldn’t have been more wrong. This is the first book that I have read by Rebecca and I can tell you right now that it won't be my last! (I’m hoping that she will continue this series … Patrick maybe, hint hint!)
First and foremost, I have to say that every word in this story is important. There is no fluff filler in this book. With some books, sometime you can skip a couple of pages and have it not matter to the story, but that doesn’t happen here. And to me, that means that this story is top grade!!
Right off the bat, Rebecca makes you care deeply for these characters. She makes you feel for them, makes you hope for a better life for them. And then, she gives that to you! I’m not saying that this story doesn’t have its fair share of ups and downs of emotional distress. Rebecca will put you through the wringer. In a way she is the readers Dom and the reader is the Sub. Ha ha, that may be corny, but if you read this book you will understand the analogy. Rebecca works us up so much with all the lust, angst, heartbreak and love that when we finally get to the end of this story, it is like the release that we have been waiting for. And it couldn’t have ended better.
When I first met Jack and Lilly, I didn’t think that they would work well in a relationship together. That Jack should be just a mentor to Lilly, but then as the story goes on and you see how well they fit together, you cant help but hope that they will work out their own person demons so that they can be happy together. And when they do work out their demons, you cant help but be proud right along with them.
I hope that Rebecca keeps writing this story so that we will be able to see more of Jack and Lilly, but also know more about the other character that we have come to love! I cant wait for Patrick and maybe Josh too! Great job, Rebecca!
-Billi, Rock Star Review Team
Holy Hot Tamale! When I received this from Rock Star Lit., I was a little nervous that there would be too much legal lawyer stuff that I may not like it. I couldn’t have been more wrong. This is the first book that I have read by Rebecca and I can tell you right now that it won't be my last! (I’m hoping that she will continue this series … Patrick maybe, hint hint!)
First and foremost, I have to say that every word in this story is important. There is no fluff filler in this book. With some books, sometime you can skip a couple of pages and have it not matter to the story, but that doesn’t happen here. And to me, that means that this story is top grade!!
Right off the bat, Rebecca makes you care deeply for these characters. She makes you feel for them, makes you hope for a better life for them. And then, she gives that to you! I’m not saying that this story doesn’t have its fair share of ups and downs of emotional distress. Rebecca will put you through the wringer. In a way she is the readers Dom and the reader is the Sub. Ha ha, that may be corny, but if you read this book you will understand the analogy. Rebecca works us up so much with all the lust, angst, heartbreak and love that when we finally get to the end of this story, it is like the release that we have been waiting for. And it couldn’t have ended better.
When I first met Jack and Lilly, I didn’t think that they would work well in a relationship together. That Jack should be just a mentor to Lilly, but then as the story goes on and you see how well they fit together, you cant help but hope that they will work out their own person demons so that they can be happy together. And when they do work out their demons, you cant help but be proud right along with them.
I hope that Rebecca keeps writing this story so that we will be able to see more of Jack and Lilly, but also know more about the other character that we have come to love! I cant wait for Patrick and maybe Josh too! Great job, Rebecca!
-Billi, Rock Star Review Team
November 10, 2015
3.5 stars
His Contract tells the story of Jack, a Harvard law professor who has lost his wife of many years to cancer. They lived a "secret" life - one in which Jack was the Dom, and his wife the sub. Now a little over a year after her death, he is still struggling with his promise to her to find love again.
Lily works as a paralegal at a huge law firm. She has moved there to be close to her brother. She had been in a relationship herself where she was the sub - but it ended horribly. So horribly that she completely lost the confidence she had to take the bar exam.
Having mutual friends, the two of them finally meet, and have an instant attraction. The more they are around each other, the more Lily's actions cause Jack to see that she is a sub. The two of them decide to explore this, and draw up a contract outlining limits. They also think this will keep them from having feelings for each other.
This book was a good read, and the writing is really very good. It is apparent that she did her homework as far as the D/s lifestyle, and this shows in the story line. Also, she portrayed working at a law firm very accurately as well - especially the pressure of working on a huge case that your boss expects no less than success on.
I also liked how the author showed that some people go into this without proper knowledge, as Lilly's former Dom was one who didn't outline any kind of rules or limits to her during their relationship.
Just a few things that bugged me. Maybe because I'm a bit of a geek, the fact that Lily was looking at a report and couldn't figure out what the abbreviation for one of the columns was bugged me (it seemed fairly obvious, but again - I'm a geek). Also, I really don't like books where we have a 44 year old hero and the heroine is 28. Yes I know this happens in real life and other books. And I say that being a single woman in her 40s and competing with those in their 20s for men our age sucks.
At any rate - good read, entertaining, hero with a dirty mouth when the time was right.
His Contract tells the story of Jack, a Harvard law professor who has lost his wife of many years to cancer. They lived a "secret" life - one in which Jack was the Dom, and his wife the sub. Now a little over a year after her death, he is still struggling with his promise to her to find love again.
Lily works as a paralegal at a huge law firm. She has moved there to be close to her brother. She had been in a relationship herself where she was the sub - but it ended horribly. So horribly that she completely lost the confidence she had to take the bar exam.
Having mutual friends, the two of them finally meet, and have an instant attraction. The more they are around each other, the more Lily's actions cause Jack to see that she is a sub. The two of them decide to explore this, and draw up a contract outlining limits. They also think this will keep them from having feelings for each other.
This book was a good read, and the writing is really very good. It is apparent that she did her homework as far as the D/s lifestyle, and this shows in the story line. Also, she portrayed working at a law firm very accurately as well - especially the pressure of working on a huge case that your boss expects no less than success on.
I also liked how the author showed that some people go into this without proper knowledge, as Lilly's former Dom was one who didn't outline any kind of rules or limits to her during their relationship.
Just a few things that bugged me. Maybe because I'm a bit of a geek, the fact that Lily was looking at a report and couldn't figure out what the abbreviation for one of the columns was bugged me (it seemed fairly obvious, but again - I'm a geek). Also, I really don't like books where we have a 44 year old hero and the heroine is 28. Yes I know this happens in real life and other books. And I say that being a single woman in her 40s and competing with those in their 20s for men our age sucks.
At any rate - good read, entertaining, hero with a dirty mouth when the time was right.
October 30, 2015
“His skills with his tongue and fingers had driven her out of her mind several times over already.”
5 tie me up stars!!! Wow this book oozes sex and total hotness!! I couldn’t put this book down while I read it!! There’s not enough words to describe how hot and sexy this book is!!
Harvard law professor Jack Archer once balanced his professional life with the private world of dominance, surrender and trust he shared with his wife. Since cancer stole her a year ago, finding love again—her final wish for him—is the furthest thing from his mind.
From his empty house to the classroom, grief follows his every move. Until he meets a young woman with shadows in her eyes even darker than his own.
Once a shining star at law school, Lilly Sterling’s dreams died when the Dom she trusted left her heartbroken and lost. She’s starting fresh in a new city as a paralegal, but meeting Jack reawakens all her old demons—and her lingering desires.
Jack offers to become Lilly’s mentor for both the courtroom and the playroom, but tells himself it’s not a relationship. Their carefully worded agreement guarantees that. But when their trial agreement starts heating up, both Jack and Lilly must decide what will tip the scales: the letter of the law...or love?
Warning: All rise for a book that contains a wounded submissive and a Dominant who wants to retrain her while retaining control of his heart. Discovery phase may involve spankings, bondage, edging, and blindfolds. Is it hot? You be the judge.
Jack and Lilly are such a smokin’ hot book couple!!! I loved their story and how they come together, it was unique and refreshing!!! Jack is quite the Alpha and I mean who doesn’t like a super sexy alpha?? I know this girl does!!! Anyway, you definitely need to read this book, it hits all the right spots and give you so many feels!!!
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
5 tie me up stars!!! Wow this book oozes sex and total hotness!! I couldn’t put this book down while I read it!! There’s not enough words to describe how hot and sexy this book is!!
Harvard law professor Jack Archer once balanced his professional life with the private world of dominance, surrender and trust he shared with his wife. Since cancer stole her a year ago, finding love again—her final wish for him—is the furthest thing from his mind.
From his empty house to the classroom, grief follows his every move. Until he meets a young woman with shadows in her eyes even darker than his own.
Once a shining star at law school, Lilly Sterling’s dreams died when the Dom she trusted left her heartbroken and lost. She’s starting fresh in a new city as a paralegal, but meeting Jack reawakens all her old demons—and her lingering desires.
Jack offers to become Lilly’s mentor for both the courtroom and the playroom, but tells himself it’s not a relationship. Their carefully worded agreement guarantees that. But when their trial agreement starts heating up, both Jack and Lilly must decide what will tip the scales: the letter of the law...or love?
Warning: All rise for a book that contains a wounded submissive and a Dominant who wants to retrain her while retaining control of his heart. Discovery phase may involve spankings, bondage, edging, and blindfolds. Is it hot? You be the judge.
Jack and Lilly are such a smokin’ hot book couple!!! I loved their story and how they come together, it was unique and refreshing!!! Jack is quite the Alpha and I mean who doesn’t like a super sexy alpha?? I know this girl does!!! Anyway, you definitely need to read this book, it hits all the right spots and give you so many feels!!!
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
November 8, 2015
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
His Contract opens with Jack Archer losing his wife and submissive. It's a heart breaking scene. Even without the character build up it got me in the feels. He loses himself when his wife dies. After a year of mourning his brother and best friend decide it's time he get back out there. When he first spot Lilly, he's taken aback, she looks somewhat like his wife. He's drawn to Lilly but she's younger, he's not ready, she's his friends sister...he could come up with a million excuses but he can't deny the spark between them. Lilly has her own set of issues, starting with the abuse she suffered at the hands of her Dom. She's also drawn to Jack but she's worried to resume the roll of a submissive after getting her heart broken.
I really enjoyed this group of characters. The chemistry between Jack and Lilly was combustible. The relationship was a learning experience for both of them. I loved that even though it was long it wasn't boring or had any skip worthy moments. I can't wait to see where it goes from here.
His Contract opens with Jack Archer losing his wife and submissive. It's a heart breaking scene. Even without the character build up it got me in the feels. He loses himself when his wife dies. After a year of mourning his brother and best friend decide it's time he get back out there. When he first spot Lilly, he's taken aback, she looks somewhat like his wife. He's drawn to Lilly but she's younger, he's not ready, she's his friends sister...he could come up with a million excuses but he can't deny the spark between them. Lilly has her own set of issues, starting with the abuse she suffered at the hands of her Dom. She's also drawn to Jack but she's worried to resume the roll of a submissive after getting her heart broken.
I really enjoyed this group of characters. The chemistry between Jack and Lilly was combustible. The relationship was a learning experience for both of them. I loved that even though it was long it wasn't boring or had any skip worthy moments. I can't wait to see where it goes from here.
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