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Stronghold Doms #6
Stripping the Sub
Welcome to Stronghold, step on in and meet the Stronghold Doms...
Ever since Michael Waverly joined Stronghold and recognized Ellie Sanders he's wanted to scene with her, but over time it's turned into something more than that and he knows a scene just won't satisfy him. Unfortunately, she's been avoiding him and she has a reputation for never doing more than just a scene. For the first time, her defenses seem to be down and she's willing to give him a chance. But while she's willing to sign a club contract with him, will she ever be willing to open her heart?
Ellie is so full of secrets sometimes she feels like that's all she's made of - all the things she doesn't want other people to know about her. The person she's most afraid of revealing all of her secrets to are Michael - her one-time protector and crush in high school, now grown into a devastatingly attractive sadist at Stronghold. She wants to play with him. More than that, she wants to know if maybe she has a chance for a normal relationship with him... the first man in a long time that she's both trusted and been attracted to. Unfortunately for Ellie, normal has always been out of her reach. The most important secret of all is the one she's keeping from everyone, especially Michael, because there's no way he'd ever want her if he knew the truth behind her damage.
But communication is everything in BDSM and Michael's determined to strip back all of Ellie's defenses and claim her as his own... with a determined Dom like that, what chance does a scared subbie have of keeping her secrets?
This book contains BDSM, sadism, masochism, whipping, sensory play, bondage, and all sorts of kinky fun with a guaranteed HEA.
Ever since Michael Waverly joined Stronghold and recognized Ellie Sanders he's wanted to scene with her, but over time it's turned into something more than that and he knows a scene just won't satisfy him. Unfortunately, she's been avoiding him and she has a reputation for never doing more than just a scene. For the first time, her defenses seem to be down and she's willing to give him a chance. But while she's willing to sign a club contract with him, will she ever be willing to open her heart?
Ellie is so full of secrets sometimes she feels like that's all she's made of - all the things she doesn't want other people to know about her. The person she's most afraid of revealing all of her secrets to are Michael - her one-time protector and crush in high school, now grown into a devastatingly attractive sadist at Stronghold. She wants to play with him. More than that, she wants to know if maybe she has a chance for a normal relationship with him... the first man in a long time that she's both trusted and been attracted to. Unfortunately for Ellie, normal has always been out of her reach. The most important secret of all is the one she's keeping from everyone, especially Michael, because there's no way he'd ever want her if he knew the truth behind her damage.
But communication is everything in BDSM and Michael's determined to strip back all of Ellie's defenses and claim her as his own... with a determined Dom like that, what chance does a scared subbie have of keeping her secrets?
This book contains BDSM, sadism, masochism, whipping, sensory play, bondage, and all sorts of kinky fun with a guaranteed HEA.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2017
148 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
About the author
Golden Angel
164 books2,023 followersGolden Angel is a USA Today best-selling author of heart and bottom warming romance.
She is happily married, old enough to know better but still too young to care, and a big fan of happily-ever-afters, strong heroes and heroines, and sizzling chemistry.
When not in front of her computer writing, she can be found sewing her next project, hanging out with friends, or wandering the grounds of the Maryland Renaissance Festival.
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Website: http://www.goldenangelromance.com
She is happily married, old enough to know better but still too young to care, and a big fan of happily-ever-afters, strong heroes and heroines, and sizzling chemistry.
When not in front of her computer writing, she can be found sewing her next project, hanging out with friends, or wandering the grounds of the Maryland Renaissance Festival.
Newsletter with free books - https://subscribepage.io/goldenangelr...
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2G68e3O
Facebook: http://bit.ly/2Ds7c0e
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2CkqiqZ
Website: http://www.goldenangelromance.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
May 2, 2020
I'm not sure why but I decided to do a re-read of this book. It's not like I haven't got several hundred unread books on my TBR list, but 🤷♂️. In spoilers below is my original review, and this time around I DID enjoy the book and characters a lot more because I've now read the other books in the series. So despite each individual story being stand alone, the book involves a large group of friends and it's almost impossible to keep track of them if you haven't read at least a few of the previous books. (There is a sort of 'more on this later' later).
Having read one heck of a lot more BDSM/kinky/dark reads since my first dance with this book, I no longer found the S/M level of this shocking or difficult to read at all. In fact I would now describe the kink scenes in this as incredibly hot, sexy and lust inducing. There are plenty of them, not too many as to detract from the story, but enough to make it a smouldering read.
The stories are quite long, and I love, love, LOVE that we get to see the characters grow and develop. We are shown how the couple fall in love and we work through their lives and issues with them. Golden Angel draws us into their world, ensnares us in their lives, and captures our hearts along with theirs, brilliantly.
This is where I come back to my 'later' bit. Sometimes I feel as though I'm struggling to get through the stories and it's taken me a long time to realise the why. Each book brings us a new couple and as we progress through the series we keep seeing more of those couples. And whilst those friendships are a real strength of these books, it's also a weakness for me. There is too much time spent 'off couple' on developing/continuing other plot lines. I enjoy seeing Angel, Lexi et al but if it isn't just a brief glimpse, or it doesn't somehow build into the current storyline then I find it both distracts and detracts from the couple I am reading. This book spent a LOT of time building up two future books and continuing Angel and Adam's story. None of this really added to Ellie and Michael though, and THEY were the only couple who I wanted to read about in this book. The other stuff would have been better kept to a multi-couple novella snuck in between main books IMO.
I really liked both Ellie and Michael. Ellie had massive issues to deal with and we all handle our problems in different ways. Ellie hadn't really dealt with it at all, she'd run away from them. It might seem weak to some but we all handle things the best way we can and no-one should be judged for how they choose/manage/have to cope. I adored how gentle Michael was with her, well out of scene time anyway! How determined and caring and sweet a side this mean, sadistic Dom had. I fully bought into their connection, their relationship and their feelings.
So to summarise, I would recommend the book AND the series. I would also very much recommend reading them in order. The spoiler below contains my first review, JFYI.
Having read one heck of a lot more BDSM/kinky/dark reads since my first dance with this book, I no longer found the S/M level of this shocking or difficult to read at all. In fact I would now describe the kink scenes in this as incredibly hot, sexy and lust inducing. There are plenty of them, not too many as to detract from the story, but enough to make it a smouldering read.
The stories are quite long, and I love, love, LOVE that we get to see the characters grow and develop. We are shown how the couple fall in love and we work through their lives and issues with them. Golden Angel draws us into their world, ensnares us in their lives, and captures our hearts along with theirs, brilliantly.
This is where I come back to my 'later' bit. Sometimes I feel as though I'm struggling to get through the stories and it's taken me a long time to realise the why. Each book brings us a new couple and as we progress through the series we keep seeing more of those couples. And whilst those friendships are a real strength of these books, it's also a weakness for me. There is too much time spent 'off couple' on developing/continuing other plot lines. I enjoy seeing Angel, Lexi et al but if it isn't just a brief glimpse, or it doesn't somehow build into the current storyline then I find it both distracts and detracts from the couple I am reading. This book spent a LOT of time building up two future books and continuing Angel and Adam's story. None of this really added to Ellie and Michael though, and THEY were the only couple who I wanted to read about in this book. The other stuff would have been better kept to a multi-couple novella snuck in between main books IMO.
I really liked both Ellie and Michael. Ellie had massive issues to deal with and we all handle our problems in different ways. Ellie hadn't really dealt with it at all, she'd run away from them. It might seem weak to some but we all handle things the best way we can and no-one should be judged for how they choose/manage/have to cope. I adored how gentle Michael was with her, well out of scene time anyway! How determined and caring and sweet a side this mean, sadistic Dom had. I fully bought into their connection, their relationship and their feelings.
So to summarise, I would recommend the book AND the series. I would also very much recommend reading them in order. The spoiler below contains my first review, JFYI.
February 15, 2019
Book 6 of the Stronghold Doms Series, Stripping the Sub, focuses on Dom Michael (who Angel has nick-named ‘Pretty Boy’) and submissive, Ellie – who plays mostly with sadist Andrew, originally because of his lack of wanting anything more than a scene – no emotional attachment, or any other sort of relationship. Like Andrew, Michael is also a sadist.
Everyone in their ever-expanding group has noticed how Michael (aka Mike to Angel and Leigh when Angel isn’t calling him pretty boy – originally to identify the difference between talking about him from Leigh’s ex) focuses on Ellie – where she is, who she’s playing with. But Ellie is always running or hiding; staying away from him.
When Ellie requests a scene with Andrew, and consents to having Kate also being there so no mixed signals, or jealousy, rears its ugly head, Michael approaches Andrew with a proposition – he wants in on Ellie’s next scene if she requests one. Having a second Dom working with her, along with blindfolds, are on Ellie’s soft limit list – which means they can be pushed.
During the story, we discover more about the past association between Michael and Ellie, and the reason behind Ellie’s adamant reluctance to forming any sort of bond or relationship with anyone. I felt for both Michael, and Ellie, during the many emotional struggles they experienced. One line (actually, more than one, but this one was the best) really stood out for me.
“Michael and the strap was like a blacksmith with his bellows, and she was the forge in which he’d create his masterpiece of agonized ecstasy.”
For me, this one line is the perfect description between a sadist and his submissive (in this case – a Domme can also be a sadist – it’s not gender specific). The editing issues continue throughout this book – however, there were two instances that I couldn’t overlook, and they irked me. The wrong name was used, twice, within the space of a couple of paragraphs – but, I didn’t let it overshadow my enjoyment of the book. I’m still loving this series, and I still highly recommend it – I have absolutely adored getting to know each and every one of the group, and I’m now onto book 7.
Everyone in their ever-expanding group has noticed how Michael (aka Mike to Angel and Leigh when Angel isn’t calling him pretty boy – originally to identify the difference between talking about him from Leigh’s ex) focuses on Ellie – where she is, who she’s playing with. But Ellie is always running or hiding; staying away from him.
When Ellie requests a scene with Andrew, and consents to having Kate also being there so no mixed signals, or jealousy, rears its ugly head, Michael approaches Andrew with a proposition – he wants in on Ellie’s next scene if she requests one. Having a second Dom working with her, along with blindfolds, are on Ellie’s soft limit list – which means they can be pushed.
During the story, we discover more about the past association between Michael and Ellie, and the reason behind Ellie’s adamant reluctance to forming any sort of bond or relationship with anyone. I felt for both Michael, and Ellie, during the many emotional struggles they experienced. One line (actually, more than one, but this one was the best) really stood out for me.
“Michael and the strap was like a blacksmith with his bellows, and she was the forge in which he’d create his masterpiece of agonized ecstasy.”
For me, this one line is the perfect description between a sadist and his submissive (in this case – a Domme can also be a sadist – it’s not gender specific). The editing issues continue throughout this book – however, there were two instances that I couldn’t overlook, and they irked me. The wrong name was used, twice, within the space of a couple of paragraphs – but, I didn’t let it overshadow my enjoyment of the book. I’m still loving this series, and I still highly recommend it – I have absolutely adored getting to know each and every one of the group, and I’m now onto book 7.
April 20, 2019
5 Star Review Stripping The Submissive (Stronghold Doms # 6) by Golden Angel
Audio Review
I thoroughly enjoyed this story about Dom, Michael Waverly, a sadist and the woman he has never forgotten, Ellie Sanders, a masochist. The narrator did a good job but I did feel that the male character voices were not as strong as the female ones.
This book packed an awful lot into it. I really liked Michael and Ellie, both as individuals and as a couple. I felt their connection and the chemistry between the two of them is scorchingly hot. However Stripping the Submissive is so much more than just a steamy book, it has a great depth to it. Ellie’s journey as she struggles to come to terms with her past was at times heart breaking.
It was great to see how Michael handled Ellie’s doubts and insecurities as she wrestled with the past and how it had impacted her life and relationships around her.
Will Michael be able to break down the barriers that Ellie has erected and in turn, help her to overcome her past and to take a chance on a future together? As a Dom, Michael knows that the key to any relationship, particularly a BDSM one is communication and trust, but will Ellie have the strength to share with Michael the truth of her past or will her secret remain between them and in doing so destroy the trust that has built between them?
This has fast become one of my favourite series, although I have only listened to a couple of them, I had no trouble following book 6 and hopefully I get a chance to listen to or read the other books in the series.
Audio Review
I thoroughly enjoyed this story about Dom, Michael Waverly, a sadist and the woman he has never forgotten, Ellie Sanders, a masochist. The narrator did a good job but I did feel that the male character voices were not as strong as the female ones.
This book packed an awful lot into it. I really liked Michael and Ellie, both as individuals and as a couple. I felt their connection and the chemistry between the two of them is scorchingly hot. However Stripping the Submissive is so much more than just a steamy book, it has a great depth to it. Ellie’s journey as she struggles to come to terms with her past was at times heart breaking.
It was great to see how Michael handled Ellie’s doubts and insecurities as she wrestled with the past and how it had impacted her life and relationships around her.
Will Michael be able to break down the barriers that Ellie has erected and in turn, help her to overcome her past and to take a chance on a future together? As a Dom, Michael knows that the key to any relationship, particularly a BDSM one is communication and trust, but will Ellie have the strength to share with Michael the truth of her past or will her secret remain between them and in doing so destroy the trust that has built between them?
This has fast become one of my favourite series, although I have only listened to a couple of them, I had no trouble following book 6 and hopefully I get a chance to listen to or read the other books in the series.
July 24, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Great BDSM book that keeps you turning the page until the very end.
December 29, 2023
For someone with much to learn about sadist/masochistic personalities or proclivities, this series has been informative (amongst other things). The author has the gift of showing the how & why someone might be interested or gravitate to one kink or the other - which ultimately humanizes the lifestyle. So far, this series hasn’t disappointed in entertaining my curiosity.
March 21, 2018
Once again, Golden Angel has written a story that I couldn't get enough of. Some of my favorite things about this series are the characters, the "family" feel between them all, the different levels of kink each couple engages in, the humor and laughter that is blended with all the other emotional ups and downs, and some of the most sexy scenes ever. The characters in this series are so realistic that I sometimes have to remind myself that they are fictional characters. I have related to every single character to some degree, and even though there are parts of their personalities I might not relate to I am still connected to them because of the way they have each shown up in the previous books. I absolutely love not having to say good-bye to the past couples!
This story is about Ellie and Michael. Michael is one of the club sadists, and Ellie is one of the masochists. They also have a past together that is making things a little uncertain between them. Ellie is one of the more broken characters in this series. Not in the way that she is the only one broken, but she is having a harder time healing. My heart broke for her so many times while I was reading this. The ways that Michael tries to heal those wounds are both brutal and beautiful. The slow progress of their relationship is also more believable because of those experiences. I was brought to tears more than once while reading this.
There aren't just emotional moments in this book. There are some very sexy, very intense love scenes. Because of who Ellie and Michael are, the BDSM elements aren't light. This isn't a "spanking" story. They aren't the most intense scenes I have read, but be warned that this is a true BDSM story. The scenes are HOT! The chemistry between Ellie and Michael is HOT! Everything about this one is HOT!
If you haven't read any of the other books in this series you will still understand what is going on in this one. Things mostly revolve around Michael and Ellie, but the other characters do play a significant part, and their stories are at least hinted at. You won't find out how they each got together, but you will know who ends up with who in the grand scheme of things. I would recommend reading them in order, but I will admit that I read book 7 before I read book 3 and I don't think it ruined anything for me. Either way I know you won't be disappointed in this one. It is beautifully written and I hope this series never ends.
This story is about Ellie and Michael. Michael is one of the club sadists, and Ellie is one of the masochists. They also have a past together that is making things a little uncertain between them. Ellie is one of the more broken characters in this series. Not in the way that she is the only one broken, but she is having a harder time healing. My heart broke for her so many times while I was reading this. The ways that Michael tries to heal those wounds are both brutal and beautiful. The slow progress of their relationship is also more believable because of those experiences. I was brought to tears more than once while reading this.
There aren't just emotional moments in this book. There are some very sexy, very intense love scenes. Because of who Ellie and Michael are, the BDSM elements aren't light. This isn't a "spanking" story. They aren't the most intense scenes I have read, but be warned that this is a true BDSM story. The scenes are HOT! The chemistry between Ellie and Michael is HOT! Everything about this one is HOT!
If you haven't read any of the other books in this series you will still understand what is going on in this one. Things mostly revolve around Michael and Ellie, but the other characters do play a significant part, and their stories are at least hinted at. You won't find out how they each got together, but you will know who ends up with who in the grand scheme of things. I would recommend reading them in order, but I will admit that I read book 7 before I read book 3 and I don't think it ruined anything for me. Either way I know you won't be disappointed in this one. It is beautifully written and I hope this series never ends.
July 4, 2017
The Stronghold series just keeps getting better. I really enjoy how Golden Angel continues to weave in the lives of the characters from past books, even while the focus is on one particular couple. I also like the way she gradually introduces new characters, without it seeming heavy-handed or artificial. Ellie and Michael have both been hanging around Stronghold for a while and putting them together works wonderfully well. Each character is well drawn and we get a good chance to get to know them as the story develops. I also really like how the author addresses the "rape culture" of blaming the victim (to various extents). Even while drunk, no woman should have to worry about being raped. And it's never her fault. Golden Angel makes that clear in a way that does not detract from the story and in a way that I'm sure plenty of readers haven't completely thought through. Eagerly looking forward to the next story and hope it spends some time with both of the new couples in sight.
February 3, 2018
Not my favorite
As much as I wanted Michael and Ellie to get together, this is probably my least favorite in this series. Part of is their kink--it goes way beyond my personal comfort zone, but it is well written, including enough of each of their head space to make it a thoughtful treatment of kink rather than just titillating. The other part, though, was Ellie's personal struggles, not just what happened to her as a teenager, but her on going trust, esteem, and social issues. The flow of the story felt awkward at times because of it. And, as always, the book needs a proofreader.
As much as I wanted Michael and Ellie to get together, this is probably my least favorite in this series. Part of is their kink--it goes way beyond my personal comfort zone, but it is well written, including enough of each of their head space to make it a thoughtful treatment of kink rather than just titillating. The other part, though, was Ellie's personal struggles, not just what happened to her as a teenager, but her on going trust, esteem, and social issues. The flow of the story felt awkward at times because of it. And, as always, the book needs a proofreader.
February 28, 2023
What an emotional story. Michael and Ellie are perfect for each other but they have a long way to their HEA
Magic Mike and Ellie get their story. These two have been circling around each other for awhile and we finally get their story. Very emotional and very very rough play but dang is it hawt to read!
Magic Mike and Ellie get their story. These two have been circling around each other for awhile and we finally get their story. Very emotional and very very rough play but dang is it hawt to read!
February 18, 2018
This is the first time I've read Golden Angel,,,, I LOVE her writing,,, she had me up all night reading,,,,,
14 years ago, Ellie got on the school bus, only to be taunted about being a bookworm, stealing her book from her,,, she was only a freshman,,,, a nice young man, who was a swimmer and a senior named Michael, stood up for her, got her book back, the underclassmen sat down and were quiet from then on, as Michael came up to her seat and sat with her, holding her hand,,, this behavior of him and her in the same seat, holding hands and talking went on for the rest of the the year, although, Ellie was sure the really didn't need to ride the bus, he did it for her,,,,
Ellie found her real self in college, where she found her like for kink... she liked to be the sub, she found she could let herself go in a protected area,,, she has went to Strongholds for an open house type thing and she ended up signing up after that,,,, then she learned about self defense from Angel and from there she found Kate, Leigh, Justin, Patrick, Adam, Maria, Rick, Micha, Hillary, Jessica, Chris, Liam, Sharon, Jake, Olivia, and Im dure I missed one or two,,,, and she has all those friends, yet she is still not trusting any one wih her secret,,,, she goes home to an empty apartment to her cat, Watson,,,,, then one day at Stronghold, Michael walked in and now, Ellie, who never scenes with the same Dom twice, or scenes in a private room, is agreeing to scene in another private room with her new Dom, Master Michael,,,,
This is a really good book by Golden Angel,,, she has many hot, steamy scenes in this book,,, she goes thru all their lives, and she really gets into Elle and Michael's lives and all of the things that goes on in Ellie's mind, and also, physically,,, I would seriously recommend this and any other book by Golden Angel,,,, you need to grab one of her books, TODAY,,,,,!!!
I got this ARC voluntarily to write an honest review
14 years ago, Ellie got on the school bus, only to be taunted about being a bookworm, stealing her book from her,,, she was only a freshman,,,, a nice young man, who was a swimmer and a senior named Michael, stood up for her, got her book back, the underclassmen sat down and were quiet from then on, as Michael came up to her seat and sat with her, holding her hand,,, this behavior of him and her in the same seat, holding hands and talking went on for the rest of the the year, although, Ellie was sure the really didn't need to ride the bus, he did it for her,,,,
Ellie found her real self in college, where she found her like for kink... she liked to be the sub, she found she could let herself go in a protected area,,, she has went to Strongholds for an open house type thing and she ended up signing up after that,,,, then she learned about self defense from Angel and from there she found Kate, Leigh, Justin, Patrick, Adam, Maria, Rick, Micha, Hillary, Jessica, Chris, Liam, Sharon, Jake, Olivia, and Im dure I missed one or two,,,, and she has all those friends, yet she is still not trusting any one wih her secret,,,, she goes home to an empty apartment to her cat, Watson,,,,, then one day at Stronghold, Michael walked in and now, Ellie, who never scenes with the same Dom twice, or scenes in a private room, is agreeing to scene in another private room with her new Dom, Master Michael,,,,
This is a really good book by Golden Angel,,, she has many hot, steamy scenes in this book,,, she goes thru all their lives, and she really gets into Elle and Michael's lives and all of the things that goes on in Ellie's mind, and also, physically,,, I would seriously recommend this and any other book by Golden Angel,,,, you need to grab one of her books, TODAY,,,,,!!!
I got this ARC voluntarily to write an honest review
April 10, 2019
Ellie💘Michael! More Stronghold Doms Greatness!
Stripping the Sub
Stronghold Doms, Book 6
By: Golden Angel
Narrated by: Rosie
I love this Stronghold Doms series, Golden Angel created a wonderful world with terrific characters who belong to the same BDSM club, they are a tight knit circle of friends who took out for each. Each book in this series features a newly developing couple. While each book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone it is really great to know more about the other characters form earlier books. ‘Stripping the Sub’ is Ellie and Michael’s story. Micheal, a Dom and sadist, is a new comer to Stronghold brought in by his friend Angel. He recognizes Ellie at the club whom he knew from High School and is interested in her but something in Ellie’s past leaves her broken, not trusting and unable to have a relationship. She is a sub and a masochist who enjoys the structure and safety of the club. Michael does not give up on her, wants to penetrate the walls she built up around herself. I loved his patience with her, also loved that the group of girls, subs and Olivia, stepped up and gave her their support. Michael and Ellie are perfect for each other, his Dom to her sub, his sadism to her masochism. Their story is not an easy one, lots of drama, angst & emotions but there sure is great chemistry between them and their scenes were smoking. Gold Angel, thank you for another great story, I am looking forward to the next book in the series, also want to see how the new club turns out and what stories it will bring.
I listened to the Audible edition, Rosie does a great job narrating and bringing the characters to life. She is a wonderful voice performer and an entertaining storyteller. That you for this great listen🎧
Thank you 🎧AudiobookObsession
#AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsessionReviewer
Stripping the Sub
Stronghold Doms, Book 6
By: Golden Angel
Narrated by: Rosie
I love this Stronghold Doms series, Golden Angel created a wonderful world with terrific characters who belong to the same BDSM club, they are a tight knit circle of friends who took out for each. Each book in this series features a newly developing couple. While each book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone it is really great to know more about the other characters form earlier books. ‘Stripping the Sub’ is Ellie and Michael’s story. Micheal, a Dom and sadist, is a new comer to Stronghold brought in by his friend Angel. He recognizes Ellie at the club whom he knew from High School and is interested in her but something in Ellie’s past leaves her broken, not trusting and unable to have a relationship. She is a sub and a masochist who enjoys the structure and safety of the club. Michael does not give up on her, wants to penetrate the walls she built up around herself. I loved his patience with her, also loved that the group of girls, subs and Olivia, stepped up and gave her their support. Michael and Ellie are perfect for each other, his Dom to her sub, his sadism to her masochism. Their story is not an easy one, lots of drama, angst & emotions but there sure is great chemistry between them and their scenes were smoking. Gold Angel, thank you for another great story, I am looking forward to the next book in the series, also want to see how the new club turns out and what stories it will bring.
I listened to the Audible edition, Rosie does a great job narrating and bringing the characters to life. She is a wonderful voice performer and an entertaining storyteller. That you for this great listen🎧
Thank you 🎧AudiobookObsession
#AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsessionReviewer
April 3, 2019
I have never read another book series written in such a “conversational style” and I can honestly say that I really, really loved it! It wasn’t as if I were reading this book as much as it felt like I was hearing it from a great group of friends. I laughed, I blushed, I squirmed, and I swooned- this series has it all. It revolves around a core group of friends and their connection to the Stronghold BDSM club.
There is a bond between people who share like interests, even if those interests vary in degree or kink. I loved going along for the journey between Mike & Ellie as they navigate past hurts, fears and misconceptions about one another and themselves. Seeing their friends support them all along the way, sometimes teasing, sometimes sharing their strength makes the reader feel as if they are a part of the group!
It is very much a one step forward three steps back kind of dance that they weave as they make their way to the realization of what they want and what they are willing to do to get that. The comradery between these characters is so believable, it’s like you’ve known them your whole life. Especially when the ladies begin discussing the common thread of being taken advantage of in one way or another because they are women- what a profound moment that was!
I was never more excited than when I got to the end of the book and realized there more waiting to be read! I am already so enamored with these characters, I am not ready for it to be over! And let me just say the sex… oh my… melt my Kindle HOT!
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a well told story with characters that are beautifully crafted. I was new to this author when I read this book, but I am considering myself a fan from here on in!
There is a bond between people who share like interests, even if those interests vary in degree or kink. I loved going along for the journey between Mike & Ellie as they navigate past hurts, fears and misconceptions about one another and themselves. Seeing their friends support them all along the way, sometimes teasing, sometimes sharing their strength makes the reader feel as if they are a part of the group!
It is very much a one step forward three steps back kind of dance that they weave as they make their way to the realization of what they want and what they are willing to do to get that. The comradery between these characters is so believable, it’s like you’ve known them your whole life. Especially when the ladies begin discussing the common thread of being taken advantage of in one way or another because they are women- what a profound moment that was!
I was never more excited than when I got to the end of the book and realized there more waiting to be read! I am already so enamored with these characters, I am not ready for it to be over! And let me just say the sex… oh my… melt my Kindle HOT!
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a well told story with characters that are beautifully crafted. I was new to this author when I read this book, but I am considering myself a fan from here on in!
December 26, 2024
I really didn't enjoy this one.
I felt like I came in after the start of the story and missed a bunch of stuff.
I couldn't understand why...
1) Ellie, who according to a couple of 'tell, not show' paragraphs had been avoiding Micheal for months, suddenly and for no apparent reason and certainly with no inciting event, took his hand and then agreed to scene with him.
2) Micheal decided to immediately push her emotional boundaries as well as her stated club physical/sexual limits when he just finally got her to scene with him, especially when his inner monologue kept bragging about how patient he could be.
3) Ellie's personality suddenly changed from reserved to sassy at the beginning of the scene with Micheal when 'tell, don't show' paragraphs established her as overall reserved in and out of a scene.
And the whole thing where Micheal had previously participated in a scene with Ellie without her explicit knowledge when he knew she avoiding scening with him felt rapey (not to mention, contrary to Micheal's 'patience').
All of that led to me not liking either Ellie or Michael. Ellie seemed too easy, wishy-washy and desperate and Michael seemed too full of himself, presumptuous and uncaring. Him continually manipulated situations and pushing her stated relationship boundaries, knowing it was causing her anxiety and panic that could cause more panic attacks wasn't romantic or sexy, was disrespectful, gross and dangerous!
Which made the smut hard to read, even if it was rather generic instead of the fun incidences of role-play it should have been.
Micheal's icky behavior while she was reading her heartfelt thoughts out to him was even harder to read.
And then there was contrary info.
All of it together made everything seem 'as the plot demands' rather than organic.
This was especially disappointing when I read Lexie's story several books later (yes, I read them out of order) and loved the Michael in that one. I wish that man had been in this book, it would have made it soooo much better.
Do not recommend.
I felt like I came in after the start of the story and missed a bunch of stuff.
I couldn't understand why...
1) Ellie, who according to a couple of 'tell, not show' paragraphs had been avoiding Micheal for months, suddenly and for no apparent reason and certainly with no inciting event, took his hand and then agreed to scene with him.
2) Micheal decided to immediately push her emotional boundaries as well as her stated club physical/sexual limits when he just finally got her to scene with him, especially when his inner monologue kept bragging about how patient he could be.
3) Ellie's personality suddenly changed from reserved to sassy at the beginning of the scene with Micheal when 'tell, don't show' paragraphs established her as overall reserved in and out of a scene.
And the whole thing where Micheal had previously participated in a scene with Ellie without her explicit knowledge when he knew she avoiding scening with him felt rapey (not to mention, contrary to Micheal's 'patience').
All of that led to me not liking either Ellie or Michael. Ellie seemed too easy, wishy-washy and desperate and Michael seemed too full of himself, presumptuous and uncaring. Him continually manipulated situations and pushing her stated relationship boundaries, knowing it was causing her anxiety and panic that could cause more panic attacks wasn't romantic or sexy, was disrespectful, gross and dangerous!
Which made the smut hard to read, even if it was rather generic instead of the fun incidences of role-play it should have been.
Micheal's icky behavior while she was reading her heartfelt thoughts out to him was even harder to read.
And then there was contrary info.
All of it together made everything seem 'as the plot demands' rather than organic.
This was especially disappointing when I read Lexie's story several books later (yes, I read them out of order) and loved the Michael in that one. I wish that man had been in this book, it would have made it soooo much better.
Do not recommend.
December 21, 2019
Ellie has a lot of issues she needs to work through. Including a horrible event that happened in the past. She isn't looking for a relationship with anybody. So when Michael walks back into her life, she's thrown through a loop. She tries to keep herself from him, but after a year, she finally gives in.
I really adored this book. I have to be honest, it does cover a very heavy topic. Something that many women and even some men face or experience in their own way. It was inspiring and sexy. I didn't think those two could meet and still make an amazing book. I'm very impressed. I can't wait to read the rest of this series. It is also very hilarious! I mean... Sorry Olivia!
Ellie is such an amazingly strong character. She's been through so much and it shows. She's impressed every day by the support network she seems to have found. Michael is pretty amazing as well. He's the absolute perfect book boyfriend. He's everything most women would want in a man.
I really enjoyed listening to Rosie. She was pretty amazing. She added so much more to an already amazing story. Not that it needed much added to make it amazing, but still. I'm pretty sure that she narrated the other book I listened to as well, but I'm not fully sure. Either way, I'd be fully willing to listen to other books she narrates.
I really did enjoy this book. It was very inspirational and unique. It was also full of heat and desire. I do have to be honest and state that there is a topic in here that can be triggering to some. It still makes a very beautiful read. I loved it.
I really adored this book. I have to be honest, it does cover a very heavy topic. Something that many women and even some men face or experience in their own way. It was inspiring and sexy. I didn't think those two could meet and still make an amazing book. I'm very impressed. I can't wait to read the rest of this series. It is also very hilarious! I mean... Sorry Olivia!
Ellie is such an amazingly strong character. She's been through so much and it shows. She's impressed every day by the support network she seems to have found. Michael is pretty amazing as well. He's the absolute perfect book boyfriend. He's everything most women would want in a man.
I really enjoyed listening to Rosie. She was pretty amazing. She added so much more to an already amazing story. Not that it needed much added to make it amazing, but still. I'm pretty sure that she narrated the other book I listened to as well, but I'm not fully sure. Either way, I'd be fully willing to listen to other books she narrates.
I really did enjoy this book. It was very inspirational and unique. It was also full of heat and desire. I do have to be honest and state that there is a topic in here that can be triggering to some. It still makes a very beautiful read. I loved it.
February 17, 2019
Another great story for the series
Having stumbled onto this series late, this was the last new story in the series for me and it filled in some missing pieces. If you’re new to the series yourself, while each book can be read as a standalone, there is some building upon events in the previous books (in this case, particularly Andrew and Kate’s story, Bound to the Past), so for the best experience, I’d recommend reading the series in order. Note I originally reviewed this as part of the Stronghold: Closing Time boxset, so this review is also included there.
With the teases from the previous books, I was eager to get the full story behind Ellie’s issues and equally eager to see Michael get his sub, and this story didn’t disappoint. Michael and Ellie were both great characters, and if some of their play was a little outside of my comfort zone (Michael is a sadist to Ellie’s masochist), they were still perfect for each other and I thoroughly enjoyed their journey to their hea. Getting the background behind the idea to start up the new club, Marquis, was a bonus, especially as the author’s new series will be set there.
Of course, we get updates on the rest of the Stronghold group, and getting some of the setup for the final two books in the series was an additional bonus—in fact, I feel a re-read coming on. *grins*
Heat and humor plus some pain as well (Ellie is a masochist after all), and another great story for the series. 5 stars
B2B Kelly
Having stumbled onto this series late, this was the last new story in the series for me and it filled in some missing pieces. If you’re new to the series yourself, while each book can be read as a standalone, there is some building upon events in the previous books (in this case, particularly Andrew and Kate’s story, Bound to the Past), so for the best experience, I’d recommend reading the series in order. Note I originally reviewed this as part of the Stronghold: Closing Time boxset, so this review is also included there.
With the teases from the previous books, I was eager to get the full story behind Ellie’s issues and equally eager to see Michael get his sub, and this story didn’t disappoint. Michael and Ellie were both great characters, and if some of their play was a little outside of my comfort zone (Michael is a sadist to Ellie’s masochist), they were still perfect for each other and I thoroughly enjoyed their journey to their hea. Getting the background behind the idea to start up the new club, Marquis, was a bonus, especially as the author’s new series will be set there.
Of course, we get updates on the rest of the Stronghold group, and getting some of the setup for the final two books in the series was an additional bonus—in fact, I feel a re-read coming on. *grins*
Heat and humor plus some pain as well (Ellie is a masochist after all), and another great story for the series. 5 stars
B2B Kelly
July 23, 2023
Michael and Ellie start scening at the club. They knew each other in high school. When Michael went off to college, they lost touch. Ellie had a bad relationship then also went off to college where her one relationship there did not work out. Ellie has a rule not to do more than scene with a Dom at the club. She has no outside relationships with Doms. While she was scening with Andrew, she started to talk with his friends. When she and Michael did a club contract, she got more involved. Eventually she tells the ladies what happened and receives the acceptance and affirmations she should have gotten years ago. The ladies do not tell the men Ellie's secrets. When Michael finds out, can he accept Ellie? Will this break their relationship?
Wow! What a book! This is probably the most emotionally tough book in the series. A lot of truths come out. Not just personal ones but societal ones. There is a lot of soul searching done by the men. I liked that the ladies shared with Ellie their experiences. It was eye-opening. This story made me question my thoughts and actions. I also started thinking of when things like this happened to me. I liked the acceptance the ladies gave Ellie. No one questioned her about it, putting the blame on her. When Michael finds out, he is lost. He does not know what to do and starts blaming himself. I love Olivia and how she brings it all together. She does not mess around.
While all this is going on, Patrick and Michael decide to open a second club that will be more high end. So the plans are being made for a sister club to Stronghold and everyone is involved.
I am loving this series. I look forward to the next book.
Wow! What a book! This is probably the most emotionally tough book in the series. A lot of truths come out. Not just personal ones but societal ones. There is a lot of soul searching done by the men. I liked that the ladies shared with Ellie their experiences. It was eye-opening. This story made me question my thoughts and actions. I also started thinking of when things like this happened to me. I liked the acceptance the ladies gave Ellie. No one questioned her about it, putting the blame on her. When Michael finds out, he is lost. He does not know what to do and starts blaming himself. I love Olivia and how she brings it all together. She does not mess around.
While all this is going on, Patrick and Michael decide to open a second club that will be more high end. So the plans are being made for a sister club to Stronghold and everyone is involved.
I am loving this series. I look forward to the next book.
July 20, 2017
FINALLY! An author who knows how to write erotica and does it well! This book has all the nuances of a true BDSM lifestyle as well as some very sensual, hot sex scenes that will keep anyone entertained. The book covers the relationship between Michael and Ellie who met in high school but then went their separate ways when he left for college. Years later they rekindle their relationship at the BDSM Club Stronghold but Ellie suffered a traumatic incident during their time apart that leaves her feeling broken and unsure of her ability to have a relationship with him despite wanting one. I love the patience that "Magic Mike" (you will need to read the book to find out how he got that name) takes with Ellie and that he just has the incite to know that something has happened in her life that has made her so guarded. It is very sweet and tender to watch how he steers her into a relationship with him that he knows they both want and need. This is even before he ever truly knows what pain she experienced in her past. This was my first book by this author but it will not be my last! As other reviewers stated, this is book 6 in the Stronghold series and I will be checking out books 1-5 to find out about the other couples mentioned in this story began but it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. WELL DONE!
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2017
Eleanor “Ellie” Sandler seems to be someone that likes boundaries. She only lets us see bits and pieces of her. Michael Waverly seems to be a very patient man – at least on the outside. At times Ellie starts to show more but she shuts down. It makes you curious as to why so you are left with no choice but to keep reading to see if she lets Michael and us into her world a little more.
Found it interesting to see what Michael uses to get her to open up. And as I get to know these two, I also get to know others in their group which made me glad that I have five other books to check out. Make no mistake this is a very erotic tale – BDSM is involved. Michael wants a relationship but he’s a man with the patience of Job. He’s found a woman that he knows he wants more from but is willing to wait until she’s ready. She’s not a woman who will be satisfied with plain vanilla sex. She likes her sex with a little something extra. And if you are going to read this book you need to be ok with that. I didn’t have any issues with this club and look forward to reading more about its members/friends. I get a slight impression as to whom the next book will be about and I just hope I’m right.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Found it interesting to see what Michael uses to get her to open up. And as I get to know these two, I also get to know others in their group which made me glad that I have five other books to check out. Make no mistake this is a very erotic tale – BDSM is involved. Michael wants a relationship but he’s a man with the patience of Job. He’s found a woman that he knows he wants more from but is willing to wait until she’s ready. She’s not a woman who will be satisfied with plain vanilla sex. She likes her sex with a little something extra. And if you are going to read this book you need to be ok with that. I didn’t have any issues with this club and look forward to reading more about its members/friends. I get a slight impression as to whom the next book will be about and I just hope I’m right.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
January 2, 2018
This was the first book I read of the Stronghold series and at first I was a little bit confused with all the characters appearing, all the existing couples surrounding the two MCs, but it was important to get to know them all because they were all relevant side characyers in the story. This is a second chance story of Ellie and Michael who had known each other in high school, lost contact when he went to college and reconnected at the BDSM club. Eventhough the story is told from both POV, the story mainly centers on Ellie’s struggle to overcome self-esteem issues, anxieties, panic attacts and the conviction that she doesn’t deserve a romantic relationship outside of the BDSM world, all due to a traumatic past experience, and Michael’s patience, dedication and guiding dominance in helping her to accept her feelings for him and her right to be happy. It is not a light story. The scenes at the club were hot , eventhough I did not appreciate the fact that they never used any protection during intercourse and never even talked about the possibility to use it. This book deals with an issue that has been a lot on the news lately and I really loved how the men in the book reacted to the fact that almost all women of the group had been in some way harrased in the past. I’m looking forward to read more about all of these incredible men and women.
December 9, 2017
I am voluntarily writing this review for this book I received through arc
When Ellie finished College she went into the BDSM scene she ended up at Stronghold. Micheal was very protective when Ellie was in high school. After college Ellie lost touch with Michael but she did look him up on social media.
It just so happened that Michael started to go to Stronghold too. Ellie and Michael start to play together but Ellie has a big secret. Ellie had made friends with the girls at Stronghold One night the girls had a girls night where they all sat around talking about their secrets and finally Ellie confessed hers.
Michael and Ellie decided to draw up a club contract between them.
Basically stating what could happen between them. But, she was stilled scared to tell him what happened and somewhat freaked. She did not talk to him no phone calls or text. Her friends worried but when she cancelled her membership. Some of them got together and went to her house to see how she was doing.
Will they talk her into going back to the club? Will Michael and Elle work out their differences. Will they have a HEA..read the book.
This is my second book by this author and I was not disappointed.
When Ellie finished College she went into the BDSM scene she ended up at Stronghold. Micheal was very protective when Ellie was in high school. After college Ellie lost touch with Michael but she did look him up on social media.
It just so happened that Michael started to go to Stronghold too. Ellie and Michael start to play together but Ellie has a big secret. Ellie had made friends with the girls at Stronghold One night the girls had a girls night where they all sat around talking about their secrets and finally Ellie confessed hers.
Michael and Ellie decided to draw up a club contract between them.
Basically stating what could happen between them. But, she was stilled scared to tell him what happened and somewhat freaked. She did not talk to him no phone calls or text. Her friends worried but when she cancelled her membership. Some of them got together and went to her house to see how she was doing.
Will they talk her into going back to the club? Will Michael and Elle work out their differences. Will they have a HEA..read the book.
This is my second book by this author and I was not disappointed.
March 9, 2018
Yet Another Great Read
Michael and Ellie's story is slightly darker than any of the previous Stronghold Dom's series books. It's not due to anything they do together which is all safe, sane and consensual, but rather due to Ellie's past experience with a highschool boyfriend, which has caused her to feel completely broken and unable to experience the emotional involvement necessary to allow for anything more than scening at the club. But Michael, who had been Ellie's savior in high school prior to her bad experience wants more than what Ellie believes she's able to offer and is willing to try and push her past her anxieties to get it.
The best part about the stories in this series is how each builds off those that precede it and the connection that is developed with all the characters, not only the two primary protagonists in each book. I'm almost disappointed that I didn't delay beginning this series until after the two final books were released (sometime this year), because now I'm going to be forced to wait to read them.
Michael and Ellie's story is slightly darker than any of the previous Stronghold Dom's series books. It's not due to anything they do together which is all safe, sane and consensual, but rather due to Ellie's past experience with a highschool boyfriend, which has caused her to feel completely broken and unable to experience the emotional involvement necessary to allow for anything more than scening at the club. But Michael, who had been Ellie's savior in high school prior to her bad experience wants more than what Ellie believes she's able to offer and is willing to try and push her past her anxieties to get it.
The best part about the stories in this series is how each builds off those that precede it and the connection that is developed with all the characters, not only the two primary protagonists in each book. I'm almost disappointed that I didn't delay beginning this series until after the two final books were released (sometime this year), because now I'm going to be forced to wait to read them.
February 14, 2019
This is my first book by the author. I enjoyed her writing style and the story. Even though this is a book based on a BDSM relationship it does not revolve strictly around that aspect. There is so much more to this storyline.
This book revolves around Ellie and Michael. They her bday back in high school when she was a freshman bookstore and he was a senior in theater. He came to her "rescue" one day after some boys were bullying her. After that they became fast friends.
Ellie believes herself to be broken and amiable to form any kind of attachments. She feels this way from a bad experience with a high school boyfriend.
Michael has decided that he wants to slowly tear the walls down around Ellie. He wants so much more from her. They decide to come to a contractual agreement. Their interactions flow smoothly and I love how Michael "handles" Ellie. He knows she is skittish and needs to be handled with kid gloves so to speak.
I am definitely going to be reading the rest in the series...
This book revolves around Ellie and Michael. They her bday back in high school when she was a freshman bookstore and he was a senior in theater. He came to her "rescue" one day after some boys were bullying her. After that they became fast friends.
Ellie believes herself to be broken and amiable to form any kind of attachments. She feels this way from a bad experience with a high school boyfriend.
Michael has decided that he wants to slowly tear the walls down around Ellie. He wants so much more from her. They decide to come to a contractual agreement. Their interactions flow smoothly and I love how Michael "handles" Ellie. He knows she is skittish and needs to be handled with kid gloves so to speak.
I am definitely going to be reading the rest in the series...
August 12, 2017
I gave this Book a rating of 5 ✩’s
Title: Stripping the Sub
Series: Stronghold Book 6
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Golden Angel
Format: Kindle Edition
Published on: June 30, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed a Free Courtesy Advanced Reader Copy of this book
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
Character’s Descriptions:
Michael Waverly is an actor who finds his place on a new kind of stage.
A Ellie Sanders is broken but somehow, she finds the courage to reach for her dreams.
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
Summary Paragraph:
They were only supposed to scene together but somehow it leads to love.
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
What I liked/Didn’t Like: Twists and turns that keep you wanting to read to see what happens next kept me intrigued by this book. This was my first book by Golden Angel and I loved it I will be looking for more books to read. Now excuse e while I go read book 1.
Title: Stripping the Sub
Series: Stronghold Book 6
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Golden Angel
Format: Kindle Edition
Published on: June 30, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed a Free Courtesy Advanced Reader Copy of this book
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
Character’s Descriptions:
Michael Waverly is an actor who finds his place on a new kind of stage.
A Ellie Sanders is broken but somehow, she finds the courage to reach for her dreams.
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
Summary Paragraph:
They were only supposed to scene together but somehow it leads to love.
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
What I liked/Didn’t Like: Twists and turns that keep you wanting to read to see what happens next kept me intrigued by this book. This was my first book by Golden Angel and I loved it I will be looking for more books to read. Now excuse e while I go read book 1.
August 29, 2017
I review an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
Its an great BDSM book. It not all about sex, whips, punishment and etc. Even tho its still good. There is a story between Ellie and Micheal and their relationship, and Ellie vs herself.
Ellie been struggling since her attack since high school, so she kept people at a arm distance. She have friend from the club but she likes to keep to herself. Michael is a guy she have an crush since high school and she trying to keep her distance from him for months.
Micheal been wanting to get an scene with Ellie for months and he is a patient man. When he told Ellie he will stop trying. Ellie didn't know how to feel about it. So she gave him an chance, she like it alot. Then for their relationship started to move forward but in a slow pace. Micheal didn't want to push but sometimes they move forward to move backwards again.
Ellie started to open up and told him about her issues and he understands.
Its an great BDSM book. It not all about sex, whips, punishment and etc. Even tho its still good. There is a story between Ellie and Micheal and their relationship, and Ellie vs herself.
Ellie been struggling since her attack since high school, so she kept people at a arm distance. She have friend from the club but she likes to keep to herself. Michael is a guy she have an crush since high school and she trying to keep her distance from him for months.
Micheal been wanting to get an scene with Ellie for months and he is a patient man. When he told Ellie he will stop trying. Ellie didn't know how to feel about it. So she gave him an chance, she like it alot. Then for their relationship started to move forward but in a slow pace. Micheal didn't want to push but sometimes they move forward to move backwards again.
Ellie started to open up and told him about her issues and he understands.
July 1, 2018
Book six in Stronghold Doms series. Can be read as stand-alone, but I highly recommend reading the entire Stronghold Doms series in order (and reading the Venus Rising series first). This books main characters have been secondary characters in the other books in the series. The group of friends are throughout the entire series and I love reading about them in each others books. Told in dual POV with HEA for this couple. Michael and Ellie knew each other in High School but lost contact when he went of to college and she was just a sophomore. Ellie has severe self confidence issues and believes she's too damaged for any relationships (including friends). She is a member of the BDSM club Stronghold where she only plays to get extreme pain. Michael returning to the area joins Stronghold as a Dom and recognizes Ellie. He wants to scene with her, but she avoids him. Great book about learning to trust yourself as well as others. I love this book and this series!!
November 27, 2019
Ellie and Michael have a history. Michael protected Ellie back in school and Ellie never forgot that. Michael knows Ellie just does scenes, but he has always wanted more than that. But in order for Michael to have Ellie, he has to strip her. Strip her of her clothing, her wall that she puts up and her defenses about her secrets. WHile Michal scenes with Ellie, and steams up the pages, he is also working towards having her for longer than a scene. I loved this interaction. It brought depth and emotion to the story. Golden Angel brought out the feels and the steam in this book and left me wanting more. I cannot wait to read the rest of this series.
Rosie brings this story to life. I enjoyed listening to her narration. She has an easy to listen to voice that captures the readers attention. Rosie is able to bring out the best and worst of the characters and make them real. I felt as if i was a fly on the wall in the story. Overall, this was a great narration.
Rosie brings this story to life. I enjoyed listening to her narration. She has an easy to listen to voice that captures the readers attention. Rosie is able to bring out the best and worst of the characters and make them real. I felt as if i was a fly on the wall in the story. Overall, this was a great narration.
April 16, 2023
Returning to Stronghold is always a pleasure. There’s something steamy for all readers and by book 6 it’s like visiting friends and having a peek at what’s happening in their lives. I was very excited to read Ellie and Michael’s story as they have been circling each other in previous books in the series and their chemistry is off the charts. I was not disappointed (not that I thought that Golden Angel would let me down).
Ellie is a sweetheart with some hidden sass. She’s incredibly strong and brave but has a vulnerability that pulls at readers heart strings. Michael is dreamy and steamy, while still being a master of torture. I love how much of his patient and caring side comes through during this book. I love the female friendships on display in the series and seeing them develop, strengthen and grow as the series progresses. I’m looking forward to reading about what awaits Olivia in the next book.
Ellie is a sweetheart with some hidden sass. She’s incredibly strong and brave but has a vulnerability that pulls at readers heart strings. Michael is dreamy and steamy, while still being a master of torture. I love how much of his patient and caring side comes through during this book. I love the female friendships on display in the series and seeing them develop, strengthen and grow as the series progresses. I’m looking forward to reading about what awaits Olivia in the next book.
July 19, 2017
This was a very dark look into a woman that was raped in high school the year after her protected left for college and lost contact with him. No one believed her and thought it was her fault since they were drunk and making out. Then he boy was in a car accident and everyone told her to just drop it but she couldn't get in out of her mind or continue on her like nothing happen.
Then 8 years later her one time protector comes strolling back into her life at a BDSM club where she goes to feel pain and pleasure. He wants to be her protector again but he also wants her heart. Can he heal her mind enough to feel love again and bring her out of her shell. See how he uses the BDSM lifestyle and friends to heal the love of his life that he left behind so many years again.
You will want to keep turning the pages to see how they both get over her emotional scars.
I voluntary review this ARC copy.
Then 8 years later her one time protector comes strolling back into her life at a BDSM club where she goes to feel pain and pleasure. He wants to be her protector again but he also wants her heart. Can he heal her mind enough to feel love again and bring her out of her shell. See how he uses the BDSM lifestyle and friends to heal the love of his life that he left behind so many years again.
You will want to keep turning the pages to see how they both get over her emotional scars.
I voluntary review this ARC copy.
July 29, 2017
This is the first book I've read by Golden Angel and I liked it a lot. This is also the first book I've read with main characters who are a sadist and a masochist and I wasn't sure what to expect during the sadomasochism scenes but surprisingly the thing that came through the strongest is the caring and trust, and how perfectly they fulfill a need in each other. Ellie, haunted by her past, is a woman afraid to trust but Michael is a strong, loving, patient man and he is determined to win Ellie's heart. The BDSM scenes were a little challenging for me but very hot. I really liked the large circle of friends and fully intend to go back and read all of the earlier books in the series. The writing is great and I really enjoyed this book. 4.5 stars.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
February 7, 2019
As another reader had mentioned this book is not really a stand alone book. You will enjoy it much more if you start the series at the beginning.
Just like Bound to the Past this was not my kink. Each person has there own kink and I just couldn't get into this. I have a hard time understanding the need and want of pain, because of this I rushed through the kink scenes. If pain is your type of kink then this would be a great book for you.
Other than this was not my kink this book was great. I may not understand why someone with Ellie's past would want pain but the author has a good way of pulling the reader in and want to invest their time reading.
Just like Bound to the Past this was not my kink. Each person has there own kink and I just couldn't get into this. I have a hard time understanding the need and want of pain, because of this I rushed through the kink scenes. If pain is your type of kink then this would be a great book for you.
Other than this was not my kink this book was great. I may not understand why someone with Ellie's past would want pain but the author has a good way of pulling the reader in and want to invest their time reading.
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