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Entwined Dreams #2
Secured and Free
Entwined Book Two
An abusive Dom robbed Orion Gordon of his love of BDSM, destroying his confidence and leaving him unsure he’ll ever find peace through submission to another. Still, deep inside, his longing continues.
Marcus Sadir loves Hunter Dixon, yet can’t be the one thing Hunter truly a sub to control. And Hunter can’t find satisfaction in the sadistic aspects of the BDSM lifestyle, while Marcus thrives on inflicting and sharing pain. When Marcus convinces Hunter they should find a third on a permanent basis, they discover Orion might be the key to bridging their differences and joining them on a deeper level.
But they must help Orion move past his trauma enough for him to enjoy new facets of BDSM and kink again. Their journey toward becoming whole—together—won’t be without challenges. Can Orion trust enough to try again?
An abusive Dom robbed Orion Gordon of his love of BDSM, destroying his confidence and leaving him unsure he’ll ever find peace through submission to another. Still, deep inside, his longing continues.
Marcus Sadir loves Hunter Dixon, yet can’t be the one thing Hunter truly a sub to control. And Hunter can’t find satisfaction in the sadistic aspects of the BDSM lifestyle, while Marcus thrives on inflicting and sharing pain. When Marcus convinces Hunter they should find a third on a permanent basis, they discover Orion might be the key to bridging their differences and joining them on a deeper level.
But they must help Orion move past his trauma enough for him to enjoy new facets of BDSM and kink again. Their journey toward becoming whole—together—won’t be without challenges. Can Orion trust enough to try again?
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2017
15 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Z. Allora
31 books158 followersZ. believes in soul mates, love at first sight, and overcoming all odds to find happily ever afters. Born in Upstate NY, Z. Allora and partner have spent the last fifteen years together traveling across the United States, the Middle East and Asia. These travels provide the inspiration behind many of the detailed settings and characters throughout Z.'s work. Z. received a Master degree in Psychology and Bachelor degrees in both English and Philosophy. (though Z's editors would probably question the English degree). Z. is both a writer and a huge fan of M/M romance as well as Yaoi. It is said the pen is mightier than the sword. Z. thinks all writers and publishers of M/M are promoting equality, since everyone deserves a happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 26, 2017
Marcus Hunter Orion
Three men a wonderful story.
Orion is hurt as a sub, badly abused physically and mentally. He had no safe words and is misused by a terrible Dom. Now he is so afraid he only uses a safe word. He feels terrible and a failure. That's the reason he sworn off BDSM.
Only when he meets Marcus and Hunter, who are looking for a third man in their relationship, his world turns around.
Hunter’s a paramedic, and Marcus is a tattoo artist. They have a loving relationship for a long time. Marcus is a sadist and Hunter a Dom. Both love each other to dead only Hunter hates taken pain and Marcus want to give it and not receive. Hunter needs a sub...Complicated, only when they meet the traumatized Orion a sub pur sang they know this is it for them. Also Orion loves to serve them but his issues must be overcome some way in his mind. Marcus and Hunter are very patient and loved to hold this beautiful intelligent man close.
Determined they work together toward Orion's recovery and along this road the most beautiful scenes are spread out before our eyes.
Amazing read, respectful, clear and honest. The love in this story was overwhelming I felt it all.
There was a lot of love, the humor and hot scenes were all in the right weight. The triad was very, very, well put together.
Three wonderful men just right developed, all their own clear differences, to make this a very warm and entertaining, hot and sometimes heartbreaking read.
Really want to recommend this story.
Kindly received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press
This review is published on Divine Magazine
https://www.divinemagazine.biz/secure...
Three men a wonderful story.
Orion is hurt as a sub, badly abused physically and mentally. He had no safe words and is misused by a terrible Dom. Now he is so afraid he only uses a safe word. He feels terrible and a failure. That's the reason he sworn off BDSM.
Only when he meets Marcus and Hunter, who are looking for a third man in their relationship, his world turns around.
Hunter’s a paramedic, and Marcus is a tattoo artist. They have a loving relationship for a long time. Marcus is a sadist and Hunter a Dom. Both love each other to dead only Hunter hates taken pain and Marcus want to give it and not receive. Hunter needs a sub...Complicated, only when they meet the traumatized Orion a sub pur sang they know this is it for them. Also Orion loves to serve them but his issues must be overcome some way in his mind. Marcus and Hunter are very patient and loved to hold this beautiful intelligent man close.
Determined they work together toward Orion's recovery and along this road the most beautiful scenes are spread out before our eyes.
Amazing read, respectful, clear and honest. The love in this story was overwhelming I felt it all.
There was a lot of love, the humor and hot scenes were all in the right weight. The triad was very, very, well put together.
Three wonderful men just right developed, all their own clear differences, to make this a very warm and entertaining, hot and sometimes heartbreaking read.
Really want to recommend this story.
Kindly received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press
This review is published on Divine Magazine
https://www.divinemagazine.biz/secure...
June 11, 2018
Im zweiten Band der verschlungenen Träume geht es diesmal um das Schicksal von Orion. Mir persönlich hat dieser Band wesentlich besser gefallen, als der erste der Reihe.
Zur Handlung. Orion Gordon hatte immer Spaß an BDMS, in den Sessions konnte er seine devoten Neigungen ausleben. Besonders Fesselspiele aller Art gefielen ihm. Doch dann wurde er bei einer Session von einem verantwortungslosen Dom schwer missbraucht. Seitdem bekommt er immer wieder Panikanfälle, wenn er Seile nur sieht und ist nicht mehr in der Lage bei Bondage mitzuspielen. Er fühlt sich als Sub nutzlos und minderwertig. Deshalb verzichtet er lieber ganz auf BDMS, ist damit aber auch nicht glücklich, da er sich immer noch danach sehnt, einem dominanten Partner zu dienen.
Hunter Dixon und Marcus Sadir sind bereits seit sechs Jahren ein Paar. Beide lieben sich innig. Da sie aber beide nichts Unterwürfiges und völlig unterschiedliche Bedürfnisse haben, spielen sie immer wieder mit einem dritten Mann. Allein oder zusammen. Doch auf die Dauer macht das wenig Sinn, deshalb sind sie auf der Suche nach einem Sub für eine längerfristige Beziehung. Einem, der die Bedürfnisse von beiden befriedigen kann. Rettungssanitäter Hunter ist ein Dom und Tätowierer und Piercer Marcus ein Sadist. Deshalb wäre es für die Beiden perfekt, einen devoten Mann zu finden, der gleichzeitig Lust bei Schmerzen verspürt. Im Club Entwinded begegnen sie Orion, der eigentlich ideal wäre. Doch Orions Trauma scheint eine unüberwindliche Hürde zu sein.
Die Story um die drei so unterschiedlichen Männer hat mich überzeugt. Orions seelische Qualen nach dem Missbrauch waren glaubwürdig und nachvollziehbar. Ich mochte die Dynamik zwischen den Dreien. Auch wenn es lange dauert, bis Orion Hunter und Marcus vertrauen kann. Der holprige Weg zu einer stabilen, liebevollen Partnerschaft wurde überzeugend geschildert.
Meine persönliche Lieblingsfigur ist Hunter. Er verliert nie die Geduld und durch ihn lernt Orion, dass es keine Schande ist, sein Safeword zu benutzen.
Die Story erhält von mir 5 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung.
Mein Dank geht an Dreamspinner Press für das erhaltene Rezensionsexemplar.
Zur Handlung. Orion Gordon hatte immer Spaß an BDMS, in den Sessions konnte er seine devoten Neigungen ausleben. Besonders Fesselspiele aller Art gefielen ihm. Doch dann wurde er bei einer Session von einem verantwortungslosen Dom schwer missbraucht. Seitdem bekommt er immer wieder Panikanfälle, wenn er Seile nur sieht und ist nicht mehr in der Lage bei Bondage mitzuspielen. Er fühlt sich als Sub nutzlos und minderwertig. Deshalb verzichtet er lieber ganz auf BDMS, ist damit aber auch nicht glücklich, da er sich immer noch danach sehnt, einem dominanten Partner zu dienen.
Hunter Dixon und Marcus Sadir sind bereits seit sechs Jahren ein Paar. Beide lieben sich innig. Da sie aber beide nichts Unterwürfiges und völlig unterschiedliche Bedürfnisse haben, spielen sie immer wieder mit einem dritten Mann. Allein oder zusammen. Doch auf die Dauer macht das wenig Sinn, deshalb sind sie auf der Suche nach einem Sub für eine längerfristige Beziehung. Einem, der die Bedürfnisse von beiden befriedigen kann. Rettungssanitäter Hunter ist ein Dom und Tätowierer und Piercer Marcus ein Sadist. Deshalb wäre es für die Beiden perfekt, einen devoten Mann zu finden, der gleichzeitig Lust bei Schmerzen verspürt. Im Club Entwinded begegnen sie Orion, der eigentlich ideal wäre. Doch Orions Trauma scheint eine unüberwindliche Hürde zu sein.
Die Story um die drei so unterschiedlichen Männer hat mich überzeugt. Orions seelische Qualen nach dem Missbrauch waren glaubwürdig und nachvollziehbar. Ich mochte die Dynamik zwischen den Dreien. Auch wenn es lange dauert, bis Orion Hunter und Marcus vertrauen kann. Der holprige Weg zu einer stabilen, liebevollen Partnerschaft wurde überzeugend geschildert.
Meine persönliche Lieblingsfigur ist Hunter. Er verliert nie die Geduld und durch ihn lernt Orion, dass es keine Schande ist, sein Safeword zu benutzen.
Die Story erhält von mir 5 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung.
Mein Dank geht an Dreamspinner Press für das erhaltene Rezensionsexemplar.
June 12, 2018
Band 2 der Reihe Verschlungene Träume
Orion wurde durch eine Missbrauchserfahrung mit einem Dom jede Freude an BDSM geraubt und sein Selbstvertrauen ist zerstört. Jede Session bricht er ab und er ist sich sicher, dass er sich niemals wieder so wie vorher wird unterwerfen können. Doch natürlich bleibt die Sehnsucht bestehen.
Im Entwinded lernt er Marcus und Hunter kennen, die seit sechs Jahren ein Paar sind. Marcus ist der Meinung, sie sollten einen Dritten in ihr Leben lassen, da sie sich gegenseitig nicht das geben können, was sie brauchen. Hunter ist ein Dom und Marcus ein Sadist. Hunter ist zuerst skeptisch, doch kann auch er sich nicht Orion entziehen. Doch die Frage ist, ob Orion den Missbrauch überwinden und mit den beiden seine Sehnsüchte neu ausleben kann.
Band 2 hat mir deutlich besser gefallen als Band 1, vor allem die Protagonisten muss man einfach gleich in sein Herz schließen. Orion hat sehr mit seinen Erinnerungen zu kämpfen und gebraucht bei jeder Session so ziemlich am Anfang sein Safeword. Er selbst fühlt sich dadurch minderwertig. Xander, sein bester Freund, versucht ihn zu unterstützen und ihm zu helfen, doch Orion zieht sich dennoch weiter zurück. Das ändert sich als er Marcus und Hunter kennenlernt.
Marcus, ein Tattoo-Künstler mit sadomasochistischen Tendenzen, ist das Herzstück dieser Geschichte. Wo Hunter ernst und besorgt ist, bringt er die Leichtigkeit in die Beziehung zu Orion. Sie ergänzen sich alle drei einfach perfekt. Hunter, ein Dom, lässt Orion langsam wieder seine Sehnsüchte auskosten, aber er geht nie zu weit und ist so einfühlsam, dass es einfach wunderbar zu lesen ist. Die drei ergänzen sich, wie bereits erwähnt, einfach perfekt. Gesucht und gefunden, möchte man da wirklich meinen.
Es ist eine wundervolle Geschichte, respektvoll und ehrlich. Mit genug Humor und Romantik, dass man es einfach nicht aus der Hand legen möchte. Die Sexszenen sind sehr ansprechend geschrieben und gut dosiert. Was soll ich sagen? Ich bin begeistert und hoffe auf mehr Bände. Daher eine klare Leseempfehlung von mir.
https://www.gaydanken.at/2018/06/12/s...
Orion wurde durch eine Missbrauchserfahrung mit einem Dom jede Freude an BDSM geraubt und sein Selbstvertrauen ist zerstört. Jede Session bricht er ab und er ist sich sicher, dass er sich niemals wieder so wie vorher wird unterwerfen können. Doch natürlich bleibt die Sehnsucht bestehen.
Im Entwinded lernt er Marcus und Hunter kennen, die seit sechs Jahren ein Paar sind. Marcus ist der Meinung, sie sollten einen Dritten in ihr Leben lassen, da sie sich gegenseitig nicht das geben können, was sie brauchen. Hunter ist ein Dom und Marcus ein Sadist. Hunter ist zuerst skeptisch, doch kann auch er sich nicht Orion entziehen. Doch die Frage ist, ob Orion den Missbrauch überwinden und mit den beiden seine Sehnsüchte neu ausleben kann.
Band 2 hat mir deutlich besser gefallen als Band 1, vor allem die Protagonisten muss man einfach gleich in sein Herz schließen. Orion hat sehr mit seinen Erinnerungen zu kämpfen und gebraucht bei jeder Session so ziemlich am Anfang sein Safeword. Er selbst fühlt sich dadurch minderwertig. Xander, sein bester Freund, versucht ihn zu unterstützen und ihm zu helfen, doch Orion zieht sich dennoch weiter zurück. Das ändert sich als er Marcus und Hunter kennenlernt.
Marcus, ein Tattoo-Künstler mit sadomasochistischen Tendenzen, ist das Herzstück dieser Geschichte. Wo Hunter ernst und besorgt ist, bringt er die Leichtigkeit in die Beziehung zu Orion. Sie ergänzen sich alle drei einfach perfekt. Hunter, ein Dom, lässt Orion langsam wieder seine Sehnsüchte auskosten, aber er geht nie zu weit und ist so einfühlsam, dass es einfach wunderbar zu lesen ist. Die drei ergänzen sich, wie bereits erwähnt, einfach perfekt. Gesucht und gefunden, möchte man da wirklich meinen.
Es ist eine wundervolle Geschichte, respektvoll und ehrlich. Mit genug Humor und Romantik, dass man es einfach nicht aus der Hand legen möchte. Die Sexszenen sind sehr ansprechend geschrieben und gut dosiert. Was soll ich sagen? Ich bin begeistert und hoffe auf mehr Bände. Daher eine klare Leseempfehlung von mir.
https://www.gaydanken.at/2018/06/12/s...
June 12, 2018
Nachdem der 1. Teil für mich ein Reinfall war, wollte ich die Fortsetzung eigentlich gar nicht erst anfangen, aber dann hat man sie mir wärmstens ans Herz gelegt und ich habe ihr eine Chance gegeben. Eine sehr gute Entscheidung, denn »Sicher und Frei« ist um Längen besser als sein Vorgänger.
Dabei ist lange Zeit nicht ersichtlich, ob die drei im Buch es schaffen, zu einem funktionierenden Trio zu verschmelzen, denn Orion hat nach dem Missbrauch durch einen Dom panische Angst davor, sich wieder mit einem einzulassen. Und dann läuft er Hunter und Marcus über den Weg – gleich zwei von der Sorte, seit Jahren verliebt und eindeutig an ihm interessiert. Und auch wenn Orion es sich erst mal nicht eingestehen will, auch er ist interessiert, denn eine Neigung kann man nicht so einfach hinter sich lassen, Angst hin und her.
Was das angeht, ist »Sicher und Frei« wirklich großartig, denn Z Allora nutzt hier nicht das furchtbare »Gesundgesexe«, was von anderen Autoren schon viel zu oft in BDSM-Missbrauchs-Büchern verwendet wurde, sondern sie lässt Orion viel Zeit, sich mit seinen Ängsten auseinanderzusetzen, und sie gibt ihm mit Hunter und Marcus zwei Partner an die Seite, die sich eher die Hand abhacken würden, als Orion in irgendeiner Weise wehzutun. Dazu gibt es viele Erklärungen und Gespräche, die vor allem Orion anfangs dringend braucht, um sich in seiner Haut langsam wieder wohlzufühlen. Ein echter Lesegenuss für mich, vor allem, weil es erst im zweiten Teil der Geschichte überhaupt zu sexuellen Handlungen kommt und diese sind sehr schön beschrieben und passen sich wunderbar in die Story ein.
Ich weiß, ich schwärme, aber ich liebe das Buch und bin heilfroh, dass ich auf die Empfehlung gehört habe. Daher bekommt die Story auch volle Punktzahl von mir und eine dicke Leseempfehlung gibt es noch obendrauf.
Ein dickes Dankeschön geht zudem an den Dreamspinner Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar.
Dabei ist lange Zeit nicht ersichtlich, ob die drei im Buch es schaffen, zu einem funktionierenden Trio zu verschmelzen, denn Orion hat nach dem Missbrauch durch einen Dom panische Angst davor, sich wieder mit einem einzulassen. Und dann läuft er Hunter und Marcus über den Weg – gleich zwei von der Sorte, seit Jahren verliebt und eindeutig an ihm interessiert. Und auch wenn Orion es sich erst mal nicht eingestehen will, auch er ist interessiert, denn eine Neigung kann man nicht so einfach hinter sich lassen, Angst hin und her.
Was das angeht, ist »Sicher und Frei« wirklich großartig, denn Z Allora nutzt hier nicht das furchtbare »Gesundgesexe«, was von anderen Autoren schon viel zu oft in BDSM-Missbrauchs-Büchern verwendet wurde, sondern sie lässt Orion viel Zeit, sich mit seinen Ängsten auseinanderzusetzen, und sie gibt ihm mit Hunter und Marcus zwei Partner an die Seite, die sich eher die Hand abhacken würden, als Orion in irgendeiner Weise wehzutun. Dazu gibt es viele Erklärungen und Gespräche, die vor allem Orion anfangs dringend braucht, um sich in seiner Haut langsam wieder wohlzufühlen. Ein echter Lesegenuss für mich, vor allem, weil es erst im zweiten Teil der Geschichte überhaupt zu sexuellen Handlungen kommt und diese sind sehr schön beschrieben und passen sich wunderbar in die Story ein.
Ich weiß, ich schwärme, aber ich liebe das Buch und bin heilfroh, dass ich auf die Empfehlung gehört habe. Daher bekommt die Story auch volle Punktzahl von mir und eine dicke Leseempfehlung gibt es noch obendrauf.
Ein dickes Dankeschön geht zudem an den Dreamspinner Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar.
June 21, 2018
3.5 stars
Good BDSM but a little boring, couldn’t wait to be done with it.
Good BDSM but a little boring, couldn’t wait to be done with it.
May 27, 2017
REVIEWED FOR LOVE BYTES
For those of you that don’t know the Entwined Dreams series is a kind of spinoff of The Dark Angels series which is a huge favourite of mine. Book 1 was Andrew and Zack’s story and they are the link to my beloved rock stars. Secured and Free was a bit of a surprise (a good one!) as I hadn’t realised it was a ménage – don’t be fooled by that beautiful cover as there are definitely three men involved in this one.
Orion Gordon has been left damaged and feeling incomplete by an abusive Dom who broke his trust and left him scared but yearning for something he is no longer comfortable with. Any time he tries to do anything remotely submissive he safewords from fear causing more frustration for himself. Orion has almost got to the point of walking away from the lifestyle he loves and craves when he meets Marcus and Hunter.
Marcus and Hunter are in love – of that there is no doubt. They are both involved in the BDSM lifestyle but as much as they both try they can’t fully be what the other requires. Their needs and desires are very different and recently they have considered taking on a third person permanently rather than just for the odd nights of play. When they meet Orion it becomes obvious that he may be just what they have been looking for but the path to happiness is painful and difficult and although it’s quickly clear they will gel it doesn’t happen easily.
I love this authors writing. She always gives me characters that I end up being invested in. Her writing is always descriptive and leaves you feeling as though you have visited the places she describes. She has a great sense of fairness that I always feel shines through and I often feel like I have learned something new and important when I finish a story.
For those of you that don’t know the Entwined Dreams series is a kind of spinoff of The Dark Angels series which is a huge favourite of mine. Book 1 was Andrew and Zack’s story and they are the link to my beloved rock stars. Secured and Free was a bit of a surprise (a good one!) as I hadn’t realised it was a ménage – don’t be fooled by that beautiful cover as there are definitely three men involved in this one.
Orion Gordon has been left damaged and feeling incomplete by an abusive Dom who broke his trust and left him scared but yearning for something he is no longer comfortable with. Any time he tries to do anything remotely submissive he safewords from fear causing more frustration for himself. Orion has almost got to the point of walking away from the lifestyle he loves and craves when he meets Marcus and Hunter.
Marcus and Hunter are in love – of that there is no doubt. They are both involved in the BDSM lifestyle but as much as they both try they can’t fully be what the other requires. Their needs and desires are very different and recently they have considered taking on a third person permanently rather than just for the odd nights of play. When they meet Orion it becomes obvious that he may be just what they have been looking for but the path to happiness is painful and difficult and although it’s quickly clear they will gel it doesn’t happen easily.
I love this authors writing. She always gives me characters that I end up being invested in. Her writing is always descriptive and leaves you feeling as though you have visited the places she describes. She has a great sense of fairness that I always feel shines through and I often feel like I have learned something new and important when I finish a story.
May 24, 2017
Received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. Some minor spoilers included.
A BDSM threesome story, sounds right up my alley. I’ll admit the cover threw me off a bit. For both books in this series, Lock and Key and Secured and Free, the covers give the impression of a fantasy series, as I had read the first one, I knew this wasn’t the case, but it’s sometimes difficult for me to get that idea out of my head. Also the cover heavily featured two of the three members of the triad, I like to see all three of the characters in an embrace. But hey, that’s just my personal opinion and by no means affects the story.
In the book we have Orion, again the name lent itself to fantasy a bit, who has had a hurtful dom in the past and is looking to leave the BDSM scene behind when he meets Hunter and Marc. Hunter and Marc are devoted to each other, but Hunter is a dom and Marc is no sub, while Marc enjoys inflicting pain and Hunter does not enjoy receiving pain. Could Orion be the piece missing in their relationship? So begins their friendship and building of trust in one another.
I really enjoyed the building of trust, finding activities to do together to make Orion comfortable with each Marc and Hunter. And when the sex started it was very hot. There were small conveniences that seemed unnecessary, such as having an adjoining apartment so the roommate could move too, cute but no. Overall I really enjoyed this addition to the series and really love Z’s style of writing and her love of world travel and Yaoi really shines through. These three boys a beautiful together.
4 out of 5 stars.
A BDSM threesome story, sounds right up my alley. I’ll admit the cover threw me off a bit. For both books in this series, Lock and Key and Secured and Free, the covers give the impression of a fantasy series, as I had read the first one, I knew this wasn’t the case, but it’s sometimes difficult for me to get that idea out of my head. Also the cover heavily featured two of the three members of the triad, I like to see all three of the characters in an embrace. But hey, that’s just my personal opinion and by no means affects the story.
In the book we have Orion, again the name lent itself to fantasy a bit, who has had a hurtful dom in the past and is looking to leave the BDSM scene behind when he meets Hunter and Marc. Hunter and Marc are devoted to each other, but Hunter is a dom and Marc is no sub, while Marc enjoys inflicting pain and Hunter does not enjoy receiving pain. Could Orion be the piece missing in their relationship? So begins their friendship and building of trust in one another.
I really enjoyed the building of trust, finding activities to do together to make Orion comfortable with each Marc and Hunter. And when the sex started it was very hot. There were small conveniences that seemed unnecessary, such as having an adjoining apartment so the roommate could move too, cute but no. Overall I really enjoyed this addition to the series and really love Z’s style of writing and her love of world travel and Yaoi really shines through. These three boys a beautiful together.
4 out of 5 stars.
June 28, 2017
I love me some BDSM! I hadn’t read Z. Allora until now so I was super excited. I’ve heard amazing things about this author and eager is what I was to start this. Now, this is book 2 of the Entwined Series. I never read book one and I will say without a doubt this is a standalone. Though there’s mention of the couple before this book I wasn’t lost and didn’t feel like I was missing something.
With BDSM books there’s the worry that so much will go unmentioned, rules won’t apply, or the author didn’t do proper research. With Secured and Free that is not the case. If anything I felt like Z. Allora was hammering it in. The rules and what happens to subs when rules aren’t followed.
Abuse in the BDSM community happens and in this we see Orion, a sub who was abused by a Dom, trying to heal. He wants to give up on BDSM because he can’t untie the permanent restraints he feels imprison him. Of course Orion never expected not one but two amazing guys to come into his life.
Marcus and Hunter are in an established relationship when this opens. Clearly, they love each other but they can’t give each other what they need. Marcus wants a third and until that happens they have an open relationship. Who would have thought that Orion would be the one to save them and together make them stronger.
I loved the growth of this story. I also loved how the author didn’t skimp on the facts, rules, and at times clinical conversations and scenes.
If you’re a fan of BDSM you’ll love this. I will happily be reading more from this author.
With BDSM books there’s the worry that so much will go unmentioned, rules won’t apply, or the author didn’t do proper research. With Secured and Free that is not the case. If anything I felt like Z. Allora was hammering it in. The rules and what happens to subs when rules aren’t followed.
Abuse in the BDSM community happens and in this we see Orion, a sub who was abused by a Dom, trying to heal. He wants to give up on BDSM because he can’t untie the permanent restraints he feels imprison him. Of course Orion never expected not one but two amazing guys to come into his life.
Marcus and Hunter are in an established relationship when this opens. Clearly, they love each other but they can’t give each other what they need. Marcus wants a third and until that happens they have an open relationship. Who would have thought that Orion would be the one to save them and together make them stronger.
I loved the growth of this story. I also loved how the author didn’t skimp on the facts, rules, and at times clinical conversations and scenes.
If you’re a fan of BDSM you’ll love this. I will happily be reading more from this author.
May 28, 2017
Three-way relationships are never easy, and most of them face many complications on the way to becoming a lasting triad – if they ever make it at all. But there is complicated and then there is complicated. ‘Secured and Free’ fits into the complicated category and while it took me a while to figure things out, the characters and their story makes a lot of sense. Just don’t expect everything to be crystal clear from the start – not the issues, and even less their solutions. It did make this novel very rewarding for me to read though!
There is no easy way to start a review of a complicated book like this – at least I haven’t found it. I’ll start with talking about Orion – which is also how the author begins telling the tale of these three men. And even though Marcus and Hunter get a voice in the remainder of the novel, Orion’s point of view is pretty central to what is going on. Orion has been badly abused by an abusive Dom, making it impossible for him to hand over power to anyone else ever again. The fact that he wanted rough play and got abuse from a Dom refusing to play with a safeword, then told himself it was his fault for asking, only makes things worse. Orion keeps failing and has pretty much given up on trying, but the fundamental need for love and trust and submission just won’t go away. Orion’s issues with self-esteem also mean he beats himself up for his inability to submit – a mantra that has been instilled in him by the abusive Dom: he is not worth anything if he can’t obey.
Marcus and Hunter are in a committed relationship, and the fact that they are still together despite the mismatch between some of their fundamental needs proves how much they love each other. They have made things work despite Marcus’s inability to sub for Hunter, and Hunter’s inability to enjoy the pain that Marcus wants to give. I think both of them realize they need a third man to add the pieces of the relationship puzzle Marcus and Hunter can’t provide, and they have discussed it, but there is a world of difference between understanding that they need a third – and finding the right guy.
When Hunter meets Orion at Entwined, he is intrigued by the man who looks a lot younger than he is. Marc joins them and immediately assumes Hunter has found them their third – and while nothing is as easy as that, fundamentally, that is what happened. It takes them a lot longer to figure out exactly how well they fit, that each of them wants the other two, and how to deal with the emotional involvement without hurting either the existing couple or the “new guy”. It’s an intriguing, complicated story with more than one misunderstanding and disappointment, but there is hope from the beginning that they will be able to work out what they want and how to make it happen.
If you’re looking for a complicated triad, this is your book. If you want to see real issues and a relationship that needs to be built from the bottom up if it is to last, give this one a go. And if you enjoy stories with multilayered characters, deep emotions, scorching love scenes, and a well-deserved happy ending, then you will probably like this novel.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
There is no easy way to start a review of a complicated book like this – at least I haven’t found it. I’ll start with talking about Orion – which is also how the author begins telling the tale of these three men. And even though Marcus and Hunter get a voice in the remainder of the novel, Orion’s point of view is pretty central to what is going on. Orion has been badly abused by an abusive Dom, making it impossible for him to hand over power to anyone else ever again. The fact that he wanted rough play and got abuse from a Dom refusing to play with a safeword, then told himself it was his fault for asking, only makes things worse. Orion keeps failing and has pretty much given up on trying, but the fundamental need for love and trust and submission just won’t go away. Orion’s issues with self-esteem also mean he beats himself up for his inability to submit – a mantra that has been instilled in him by the abusive Dom: he is not worth anything if he can’t obey.
Marcus and Hunter are in a committed relationship, and the fact that they are still together despite the mismatch between some of their fundamental needs proves how much they love each other. They have made things work despite Marcus’s inability to sub for Hunter, and Hunter’s inability to enjoy the pain that Marcus wants to give. I think both of them realize they need a third man to add the pieces of the relationship puzzle Marcus and Hunter can’t provide, and they have discussed it, but there is a world of difference between understanding that they need a third – and finding the right guy.
When Hunter meets Orion at Entwined, he is intrigued by the man who looks a lot younger than he is. Marc joins them and immediately assumes Hunter has found them their third – and while nothing is as easy as that, fundamentally, that is what happened. It takes them a lot longer to figure out exactly how well they fit, that each of them wants the other two, and how to deal with the emotional involvement without hurting either the existing couple or the “new guy”. It’s an intriguing, complicated story with more than one misunderstanding and disappointment, but there is hope from the beginning that they will be able to work out what they want and how to make it happen.
If you’re looking for a complicated triad, this is your book. If you want to see real issues and a relationship that needs to be built from the bottom up if it is to last, give this one a go. And if you enjoy stories with multilayered characters, deep emotions, scorching love scenes, and a well-deserved happy ending, then you will probably like this novel.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
May 25, 2017
Full review available at: https://optimummblog.wordpress.com/20...
Rating 4.5*s
Secured and Free is the second book in the Entwined Dreams series by Z. Allora. I really enjoyed reading Secured and Free. It was well written and nicely edited. The characters had depth, and I loved all of Orion’s personal growth. I loved getting to see cameos by Andrew and Zach from the first book. Along with some of the old cast that we met from Entwined and some new supporting characters also, like Sophia who is Henry’s paramedic partner and fellow member of Entwined. I have read the first book in the series but the books are very much standalone, and you don’t have to read the first book to understand what’s happening in the second book. There wasn’t as much inner monolog in Secured and Free as there was in Lock and Key which I’m sure made a lot of people who didn’t like it in the first book happy. I actually liked the inner monolog, so I kind of missed it.
Orion’s never had to worry about having a safeword until he found himself in a situation where consensual turned into abuse. He used to enjoy being a pain slut and submissive, but now he can’t even stand to have his hands bound in a scene without using his new safeword. He’s frustrated that he can’t enjoy what he used to love and he’s feeling lost.
Henry’s in an open relationship with Marcus. They love each other, but both have needs that the other can’t fulfill, hence the open relationship. Marcus thinks that they need to find a permanent third partner to bridge their differences. Henry needs a submissive to help grow and push his boundaries, and Marcus needs somebody that likes pain and edging.
Henry and Marcus come into Orion’s life just after he has decided to give up on BDSM. However with Orion’s new difficulties after being abused and his past as a pain slut, he’s potentially perfect for both Henry and Marcus. Henry can’t help but want to help Orion overcome his past and make him happy and whole again. And with Marcus’ ability to distract Orion, Henry might just be able to make that happen.
Making a regular relationship between two people work is hard enough, but Marcus hasn’t had any luck with a triad relationship yet. Henry also has some reservations about adding a third person to their relationship and poor Orion has never been in a relationship at all.
Will they be able to overcome their fears and make everything work out? You will just have to read the book. If you enjoyed Lock and Key, then you will love Secured and Free. I know I did. I can’t wait to read more books by Z. Allora.
4.5 OptimuMM's
****The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book****
Rating 4.5*s
Secured and Free is the second book in the Entwined Dreams series by Z. Allora. I really enjoyed reading Secured and Free. It was well written and nicely edited. The characters had depth, and I loved all of Orion’s personal growth. I loved getting to see cameos by Andrew and Zach from the first book. Along with some of the old cast that we met from Entwined and some new supporting characters also, like Sophia who is Henry’s paramedic partner and fellow member of Entwined. I have read the first book in the series but the books are very much standalone, and you don’t have to read the first book to understand what’s happening in the second book. There wasn’t as much inner monolog in Secured and Free as there was in Lock and Key which I’m sure made a lot of people who didn’t like it in the first book happy. I actually liked the inner monolog, so I kind of missed it.
Orion’s never had to worry about having a safeword until he found himself in a situation where consensual turned into abuse. He used to enjoy being a pain slut and submissive, but now he can’t even stand to have his hands bound in a scene without using his new safeword. He’s frustrated that he can’t enjoy what he used to love and he’s feeling lost.
Henry’s in an open relationship with Marcus. They love each other, but both have needs that the other can’t fulfill, hence the open relationship. Marcus thinks that they need to find a permanent third partner to bridge their differences. Henry needs a submissive to help grow and push his boundaries, and Marcus needs somebody that likes pain and edging.
Henry and Marcus come into Orion’s life just after he has decided to give up on BDSM. However with Orion’s new difficulties after being abused and his past as a pain slut, he’s potentially perfect for both Henry and Marcus. Henry can’t help but want to help Orion overcome his past and make him happy and whole again. And with Marcus’ ability to distract Orion, Henry might just be able to make that happen.
Making a regular relationship between two people work is hard enough, but Marcus hasn’t had any luck with a triad relationship yet. Henry also has some reservations about adding a third person to their relationship and poor Orion has never been in a relationship at all.
Will they be able to overcome their fears and make everything work out? You will just have to read the book. If you enjoyed Lock and Key, then you will love Secured and Free. I know I did. I can’t wait to read more books by Z. Allora.
4.5 OptimuMM's
****The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book****
d-n-f
August 24, 2018Sadly, I have to put this book on my DNF shelf.
While I think Allora has a way of creating 3-dimensional characters and an interesting plot to draw you in, those characters soon get lost beneath an overuse of sexual content and the plot ends up dragging. Obviously I knew this book was going to contain sex scenes, but there's a huge difference between smut/erotica and just someone writing sex scene after sex scene and trying to link some sort of plot in between.
Also, the mother makes me furious. Cool, she teaches gender studies at University. But telling her son she's going to force them to see their own privilege?! What kind of Professor is she? Discussing privilege is fine - but making people feel guilty for things they can't help is ridiculous. I found her to be a ridiculous character and couldn't get my mind off her. Was she meant to be smart? I'm not sure. She just kept playing in the back of my mind until I grew so irritated I had to stop reading this book and any future ones from this author.
It's a shame because I think the author has a lot of potential. I just think Allora focuses on the wrong things when she writes.
While I think Allora has a way of creating 3-dimensional characters and an interesting plot to draw you in, those characters soon get lost beneath an overuse of sexual content and the plot ends up dragging. Obviously I knew this book was going to contain sex scenes, but there's a huge difference between smut/erotica and just someone writing sex scene after sex scene and trying to link some sort of plot in between.
Also, the mother makes me furious. Cool, she teaches gender studies at University. But telling her son she's going to force them to see their own privilege?! What kind of Professor is she? Discussing privilege is fine - but making people feel guilty for things they can't help is ridiculous. I found her to be a ridiculous character and couldn't get my mind off her. Was she meant to be smart? I'm not sure. She just kept playing in the back of my mind until I grew so irritated I had to stop reading this book and any future ones from this author.
It's a shame because I think the author has a lot of potential. I just think Allora focuses on the wrong things when she writes.
June 28, 2017
REVIEW to come. Loved it!
Secured and Free is the second installment of the Entwined Dreams series by Z. Allora and I must say it’s an impressive, thought-provoking read that goes way beyond the boundaries of your run of the mill BDSM romance story. I loved the MC’s, loved the flow, the attention to detail and the organic feel of the relationship between Orion ( an abused sub who wants to please but fears being hurt again in the process), Hunter and Marcus ( Hunter and Marcus love each other but desire a third to be part of their relationship since neither can completely give the other what they need to sustain a healthy, balanced relationship). These two found the answer to their prayers in the form Orion.
The road to establishing a satisfying relationship between these three, of course, is a very rocky one. Orion’s painful past had him contemplating leaving the BDSM lifestyle before his fateful meeting with Hunter changed the course of his life and theirs forever. This story has a sweet HEA, but it wasn’t an easy journey getting there. There are quite a few misunderstandings that occur in the story which threatened to derail this triad. My heart broke over and over again for Orion, as he struggled to fight his way out of the mental slavery his former Dom trapped him in. The most satisfying part of the story is when all three, especially Orion finally recognized the individual worth and what each brings to the relationship.
Before wrapping up this review, I have to mention that I'm impressed with how Z. Allora, cleverly incorporates a wealth of real life necessary information into this book which enhanced the story. Z. executed this flawlessly. The knowledge Z. shares makes perfect sense given the characters and their situations. As a result we the reader become aware of the imparted knowledge after we're done with the story and are more likely to retain that education because it meshes seamlessly with the plot. We need more books like this out there. Kudos to Z Allora on a job well done. Excellent read!
*ARC provided by author for review at my discretion*
Secured and Free is the second installment of the Entwined Dreams series by Z. Allora and I must say it’s an impressive, thought-provoking read that goes way beyond the boundaries of your run of the mill BDSM romance story. I loved the MC’s, loved the flow, the attention to detail and the organic feel of the relationship between Orion ( an abused sub who wants to please but fears being hurt again in the process), Hunter and Marcus ( Hunter and Marcus love each other but desire a third to be part of their relationship since neither can completely give the other what they need to sustain a healthy, balanced relationship). These two found the answer to their prayers in the form Orion.
The road to establishing a satisfying relationship between these three, of course, is a very rocky one. Orion’s painful past had him contemplating leaving the BDSM lifestyle before his fateful meeting with Hunter changed the course of his life and theirs forever. This story has a sweet HEA, but it wasn’t an easy journey getting there. There are quite a few misunderstandings that occur in the story which threatened to derail this triad. My heart broke over and over again for Orion, as he struggled to fight his way out of the mental slavery his former Dom trapped him in. The most satisfying part of the story is when all three, especially Orion finally recognized the individual worth and what each brings to the relationship.
Before wrapping up this review, I have to mention that I'm impressed with how Z. Allora, cleverly incorporates a wealth of real life necessary information into this book which enhanced the story. Z. executed this flawlessly. The knowledge Z. shares makes perfect sense given the characters and their situations. As a result we the reader become aware of the imparted knowledge after we're done with the story and are more likely to retain that education because it meshes seamlessly with the plot. We need more books like this out there. Kudos to Z Allora on a job well done. Excellent read!
*ARC provided by author for review at my discretion*
May 26, 2017
I Have to say this book was well written. It is the story of Orion, a sub who have been abused and have lost trust in him self and everything BDSM. In come first Hunter then Marcus. They are an established couple, but also looking for a third someone to give them what they can not give to each other physically and emotionally. Marcus insisted that they start looking. So by chance Hunter found Orion. Marcus was happy that Hunter did. Marcus was attracted to Orion already for a while, but Orion was squitish due to his fears and traumas. Hunter and Marcus set up a guise for an experiment so that orion will win Orion's acceptance of them. The story was very, very sexy and full of informations to help readers understand about BDSM and other things. I really enjoyed this book very much and I am looking forward to the next one in this series. Z. Allora is a wonderful writer.
May 26, 2017
Received an advanced copy for an honest review.... which of course didn't stop me from purchasing it now that its out, haha.
I think this is the first time writing a book review? So sorry if its a bit lame.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book, but felt it could have been expanded further when I compare it to its predecessor Lock & Key. Hence why 4 of 5 stars.
Otherwise this book was a delight. I love discovering things I didn't know existed since the author does a ton of research, have you ever heard of Truvada? No? Well now you can discover its another preventative measure for HIV and its a legitimate new drug on the market.
I'm never sure of spoilers so just in case, maybe SPOILERS:
The story has a larger emphasis on the submissive Orion and weaves the tale of how he overcomes his trauma of abuse through the help of Marcus and Hunter. It's not all about Orion though, and does delve a bit into the anxieties of the other two at the prospect of adding a third member to their relationship. That is the part I wish had been expanded upon, I felt there was a lot of potential to increase the story depth there. The lack of it doesn't ruin the story though! The complexities of the characters spans a large width, their backgrounds adding support and legitimate thought patterns to the characters. An example is if you work in the medical field all day, medical-play probably has little interest for you. I put on the thing that the pace is Steady, and overall it is. Towards the end, I think it picked up pace a little.
I think this is the first time writing a book review? So sorry if its a bit lame.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book, but felt it could have been expanded further when I compare it to its predecessor Lock & Key. Hence why 4 of 5 stars.
Otherwise this book was a delight. I love discovering things I didn't know existed since the author does a ton of research, have you ever heard of Truvada? No? Well now you can discover its another preventative measure for HIV and its a legitimate new drug on the market.
I'm never sure of spoilers so just in case, maybe SPOILERS:
The story has a larger emphasis on the submissive Orion and weaves the tale of how he overcomes his trauma of abuse through the help of Marcus and Hunter. It's not all about Orion though, and does delve a bit into the anxieties of the other two at the prospect of adding a third member to their relationship. That is the part I wish had been expanded upon, I felt there was a lot of potential to increase the story depth there. The lack of it doesn't ruin the story though! The complexities of the characters spans a large width, their backgrounds adding support and legitimate thought patterns to the characters. An example is if you work in the medical field all day, medical-play probably has little interest for you. I put on the thing that the pace is Steady, and overall it is. Towards the end, I think it picked up pace a little.
June 10, 2018
I wasn't quite sure what to expect of the book. The cover rather reminded me of a fantasy novel and a name like Orion doesn't sound very contemporary either, but those hints are misleading. It's a pretty straight forward modern BDSM story.
I enjoyed it a lot and found the writing style rather intense. Very focused on important scenes with little meandering or filler. It made the progress feel rather fast at times, though, and especially in the end the bigger time jumps made it feel abrupt and a bit disjointed.
I really liked the characters and thought they had plenty of depth and variety. I loved that it wasn't just another menage with two Doms looking for a sub. The varied preferences of all three make the scenes a lot more interesting and the dynamic a lot more necessary and natural.
I liked how the relationship and the play was build up slowly and carefully. There was none of that dreaded healing through BDSM. Orion needed his time to get comfortable with things again, and everyone needed to get comfortable with the new relationship.
And even though the book made it seem fast at times, the book actually covers more than half a year.
I just found it sad, that a lot of the character depth is mostly left out at later parts of the book. It focuses so much on the BDSM parts, that we don't get to see a lot of domestic or romantic scenes as the book progresses. I started to miss Orion's highly scientific explanations of stuff and Marc's funny snark.
I enjoyed it a lot and found the writing style rather intense. Very focused on important scenes with little meandering or filler. It made the progress feel rather fast at times, though, and especially in the end the bigger time jumps made it feel abrupt and a bit disjointed.
I really liked the characters and thought they had plenty of depth and variety. I loved that it wasn't just another menage with two Doms looking for a sub. The varied preferences of all three make the scenes a lot more interesting and the dynamic a lot more necessary and natural.
I liked how the relationship and the play was build up slowly and carefully. There was none of that dreaded healing through BDSM. Orion needed his time to get comfortable with things again, and everyone needed to get comfortable with the new relationship.
And even though the book made it seem fast at times, the book actually covers more than half a year.
I just found it sad, that a lot of the character depth is mostly left out at later parts of the book. It focuses so much on the BDSM parts, that we don't get to see a lot of domestic or romantic scenes as the book progresses. I started to miss Orion's highly scientific explanations of stuff and Marc's funny snark.
June 17, 2018
Okay, I have not read book 1 but you don't need to. Those characters figure only peripherally. I am a sucker for the wounded sub routine. What can I say. So I appreciated that Orion had been abused and the love of (2) good men helped him get over his fears. I did have to wonder why Marcus was pushing so hard for a third. If I'd been Hunter I'd have been seriously questioning if I was enough. Which I suppose he wasn't really.
There was a major scene which I HAD to skip over very quickly *flip flip flip*. Needles during sex? No. I can't. No judging if that's your thing but personally it makes me completely freak.
I'd say almost my fave characters were Orion's parents. They were hilarious.
So it was okay, I enjoyed it for the most part and I'm always up for an m/m/m. Just not 100% my cup of tea, but c'est la vie.
There was a major scene which I HAD to skip over very quickly *flip flip flip*. Needles during sex? No. I can't. No judging if that's your thing but personally it makes me completely freak.
I'd say almost my fave characters were Orion's parents. They were hilarious.
So it was okay, I enjoyed it for the most part and I'm always up for an m/m/m. Just not 100% my cup of tea, but c'est la vie.
December 4, 2017
2017 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Secured and Free (Entwined Dreams #2) Z. Allora
1) This was a very nice Romance, with a capital R! The BDSM is hot and the characters oh, so likable! There's so much pain and hurt within Orion's heart and the healing Marcus and Hunter offer is simply sweet, fantastic. This is a well-written, sweet story and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
1) This was a very nice Romance, with a capital R! The BDSM is hot and the characters oh, so likable! There's so much pain and hurt within Orion's heart and the healing Marcus and Hunter offer is simply sweet, fantastic. This is a well-written, sweet story and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
November 19, 2017
This was a very nice Romance, with a capital R! The BDSM is hot and the characters oh, so likable! There's so much pain and hurt within Orion's heart and the healing Marcus and Hunter offer is simply sweet, fantastic. This is a well-written, sweet story and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
May 18, 2020
The only one if the series that I've read and I enjoyed it. I had no problems with it being a stand-alone. Will definitely read more from this author but I have too many on my shelf right now I'm trying to get through.
August 21, 2019
Nice premise, disappointing execution. Having read two thirds of the book (and boy, was that a misguided decision), I'm appalled by the amount of 5-star reviews it has. The characters are one-dimensional, the dialogue stilted and the prose amateurish. Far too often it felt as if the characters were simply mouthpieces for the author (and rather dull mouthpieces at that). I kept hoping it would improve but it never did. It's not even iddy enough to make up for the poor writing. DNF.
August 25, 2018
Wonderful story
I really enjoyed this book. I think it is a bit expensive, but worth it. This is a great second book for this series. I loved the story and the characters.
I really enjoyed this book. I think it is a bit expensive, but worth it. This is a great second book for this series. I loved the story and the characters.
May 30, 2017
Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews. A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This cover, all of Z. Allora’s book covers, are beautiful. The men on the covers are always beautiful and sexy and all male. The background details in this cover are really cool to see and it represents the scene discussed very well.
I read Lock and Key, book one of this series, because it tied to The Dark Angels series. I read Secured and Free because the author hooked me into the BDSM world she created in the club Entwined and the characters that were members there. I am not personally into BDSM but the author does such a wonderful job of explaining how it satisfy the needs of the people who do participate in it. Z. Allora emphasizes the importance of safe, sane, and consensual BDSM, and the dangers of not laying down the proper groundwork before entering into a BDSM relationship (unfortunately a lesson that Orion has learned).
The inclusivity as described by the author is important as well. To understand that everyone has different ways of meeting their needs through BDSM, such as bondage, impact play, or needle play. It isn’t a one size fits all lifestyle. There are Dominants like Hunter and submissives like Orion. There are also sadists and masochists (Marcus fits both of those) that may not be submissive or Dominant, but crave the pleasure that can come from pain. I may not go out and try BDSM after reading this book, but when an author writes it the way Z. Allora did, I can certainly see the appeal.
As far as the characters go, I really loved Hunter, Marcus, and Orion. Orion is kind of jaded after abuse has made BDSM less fun for him. Marcus and Hunter love each other completely, but there are needs each has that they can’t satisfy for each other. As it is, they have an open relationship but Marcus wants more. Someone, one person, who can fill the holes in their relationship without taking away from it in anyway. He makes a bet with Orion that love is more than a chemical reaction that leads to pleasant results for them all. Orion grows throughout this book and finds what he needs within boundaries he can handle. Marcus is brave for courageously seeking something that has burned him in the past. Hunter is understanding and brave as well, to accept another in his relationship and to trust that they can all make it work. Their love story was sweet and their chemistry is hot!
The secondary characters are awesome in this book. I wanted to hug Orion’s parents for the love and acceptance they give to him. Orion’s friend and roommate Xander is also a member of Entwined. I love that he is pansexual and loves people for who they are, not their gender or sexual preference. His attraction to Quillon a transman Dom begins to take shape into a story in Secured and Free but I’m dying to see their relationship in the spotlight. Andrew and Zack from Lock and Key are there for part of the book and it was nice to see them again.
I’d recommend this book and this series to anyone because I think it is enlightening and just written well. For those who like books that focus on relationships withing the BDSM community, it’s a must read.
10/10 Pots of Gold (100% Recommended) – Compares to 5/5 Stars
This cover, all of Z. Allora’s book covers, are beautiful. The men on the covers are always beautiful and sexy and all male. The background details in this cover are really cool to see and it represents the scene discussed very well.
I read Lock and Key, book one of this series, because it tied to The Dark Angels series. I read Secured and Free because the author hooked me into the BDSM world she created in the club Entwined and the characters that were members there. I am not personally into BDSM but the author does such a wonderful job of explaining how it satisfy the needs of the people who do participate in it. Z. Allora emphasizes the importance of safe, sane, and consensual BDSM, and the dangers of not laying down the proper groundwork before entering into a BDSM relationship (unfortunately a lesson that Orion has learned).
The inclusivity as described by the author is important as well. To understand that everyone has different ways of meeting their needs through BDSM, such as bondage, impact play, or needle play. It isn’t a one size fits all lifestyle. There are Dominants like Hunter and submissives like Orion. There are also sadists and masochists (Marcus fits both of those) that may not be submissive or Dominant, but crave the pleasure that can come from pain. I may not go out and try BDSM after reading this book, but when an author writes it the way Z. Allora did, I can certainly see the appeal.
As far as the characters go, I really loved Hunter, Marcus, and Orion. Orion is kind of jaded after abuse has made BDSM less fun for him. Marcus and Hunter love each other completely, but there are needs each has that they can’t satisfy for each other. As it is, they have an open relationship but Marcus wants more. Someone, one person, who can fill the holes in their relationship without taking away from it in anyway. He makes a bet with Orion that love is more than a chemical reaction that leads to pleasant results for them all. Orion grows throughout this book and finds what he needs within boundaries he can handle. Marcus is brave for courageously seeking something that has burned him in the past. Hunter is understanding and brave as well, to accept another in his relationship and to trust that they can all make it work. Their love story was sweet and their chemistry is hot!
The secondary characters are awesome in this book. I wanted to hug Orion’s parents for the love and acceptance they give to him. Orion’s friend and roommate Xander is also a member of Entwined. I love that he is pansexual and loves people for who they are, not their gender or sexual preference. His attraction to Quillon a transman Dom begins to take shape into a story in Secured and Free but I’m dying to see their relationship in the spotlight. Andrew and Zack from Lock and Key are there for part of the book and it was nice to see them again.
I’d recommend this book and this series to anyone because I think it is enlightening and just written well. For those who like books that focus on relationships withing the BDSM community, it’s a must read.
10/10 Pots of Gold (100% Recommended) – Compares to 5/5 Stars
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