Controlling Disgrace

Control #5.5

by Anna Edwards

She’s the cause of James North’s worst suffering, but Colette Fisher is also a victim of sorts. After years of oppression, she’s a prisoner of her own making, denying her innermost desires until she’s driven to her breaking point. It’s then, during her lowest low, when she meets the one man who could give her the strength to accept the woman she’s meant to be.

Michael Peterson enjoyed ten short years with the love of his life before tragedy took her from him too soon. Lonely and grieving, uncertain how to move forward, he meets Colette, a broken spirit also in need of comfort. Their smoldering attraction ignites the first sparks of love—fragile embers that Colette’s cruel family is determined to snuff out.

Genres: BDSM

72 pages, ebook

First published February 27, 2018

About the author

Nestled in the tranquil rural landscape near London, I'm a British author whose journey from the world of accounting to the realm of writing has been nothing short of transformative. While I occasionally revisit my numbers-oriented past, my days are predominantly filled with the harmonious dance between crafting compelling narratives and tending to my cherished family—my husband, two children, and a lively household of four cats and one dog
.
In those rare leisure moments, you'll find me lost in the enchanting world of poetry, delighting in the creation (and indulgence) of decadent cakes or fervently capturing moments through the lens of my camera.

Writing emerged as my beacon of hope in navigating the labyrinth of depression and anxiety. My insatiable love for literature and the boundless horizon of travel infuses my tales with the rich tapestry of my adventures. I strive to breathe life into my stories with an air of authenticity that resonates with readers.

Within the pages of my books, you'll encounter heroes exuding charisma and rugged allure, heroines embodying both grace and tenacity, all enveloped in the cloak of dramatic suspense.


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Reviews

[J.L. Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been an avid reader of the Control Series and I was a little worried when I saw that Anna Edwards was doing a novella on the character, Colette. We get to know Colette in books one and two, Surrendered Control and Divided Control, and she was honestly not a character you fall in love with. I will say that Edwards did a great job of allowing readers to get to know Colette in this novella. She provides a heartbreaking backstory into her life, which shows readers why she did the things she did in the previous books. I was definitely pulling for Colette and Michael in this one. She showed a lot of strength and perseverance in her character and overcame so much to become the woman she truly wanted to be. Michael had a lot of patience and understanding. He too had suffered, so I believe he was the perfect man for Colette. I am excited to see there is more to come in this series and I hope to see a book for Jasper eventually! I love this secondary character and think he would make a great main character!

[Ally Vance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heres where my jumping into the series at book 4 bites my reader butt and subsequent review, but I'm rolling with it from a standalone reader POV.

When you've been controlled and conditioned to believe and act a particular way for so long and suddenly those restrictions are lifted theres uncertainty, confusion and more importantly in this case, curiosity.

I enjoyed the story alot, I thought that the backstory gave alot to the character and our understanding of how her mind works.

I liked the sort of childlike mentality of Colette, she was eager to explore, learn and grow into herself. "It looks funny in the condom." So true haha, but it also gives insight into her sexual naivety.

I wouldnt say I truly connected with her but I definitely enjoyed her story and admored her strength to slowly face and move on from her past.

Some of this story was composed in the form of written correspondence which I loved, it was a different way to get to know the Colette and Michael, and see their relationship build from tentative and shy to friendly and more open.

Overall I enjoyed this short story, the writing was fluid and the story flowed really well. Time to go read the first 3 books in this series and looking forward to more from Anna Edwards.

[Sheena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it...

I love it when an author creates a world and populates it with a group of original and believable characters whose lives are intertwined; I love it even more when, whether or not they are the focus of the particular story or simply on the periphery, the reader continues to be given glimpses of these characters’ world and the lives that they continue to lead...The Control series is such a series, following a group of men and women who have connections through family or friendship... Colette and Michael who feature in this short story are two characters who though tenuously connected to the main players are still part of the whole experience...

Both the protagonists are damaged from past events but are brought together by a common acquaintance...this is slightly darker than the rest of the series but sensitively deals with loss and with the subject of abuse at the hands of those who should know and be better.... I loved the premise of this novella and although short in length the plot and character development does not suffer as a consequence..

This book can be read as a standalone...but be warned once you step into this world of control you will want to read more....I received an advanced copy of this novella from the author.

[Tanaka K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Controlling Disgrace is a short novella from Anna Edwards featuring a sizzling and inspiring story. A sexy and satisfying novella with a touch of BDSM that made my heart scorch and fly. I love Anna Edwards books because she combines intrigue and compelling writing that I adore each time I pick up one of her books. Controlling Disgrace is a quick turn pager that will capture you.

I freaking love this series. I love how interconnected it is and you find yourself so pulled in to a fabulous plot that will bring a smile to your face. Hot. Punchy. Emotional. Controlling Disgrace told a beautiful and nail biting story which drew me in. Not as dark as the rest of the books in the Control series, Controlling Disgrace carried a raw and challenging plot about abuse and bullying that sheds a light. With a touch of realism, this book really moved me. I was actually surprised that I connected with this book but I just could not look away because there was just something powerful and life changing about it. Anna Edwards'writing seems to be evolving and here she manages to bring a story that absolutely touch my story.

Controlling Disgrace told a story of two broken individuals with painful past but connect together and form a chemistry so endearing and special. I hated Colette. I never liked her at all after what she did to James North. But alas with Anna Edwards brilliant writing, I found myself full of empathy for her. She was a misunderstood character and sometimes even the villain/hated character deserves a happy ending. Michael is so swoon worthy. All of Anna Edwards are just perfect. Michael was patient and willing to help Colette out. I loved that.

This book will hook you in. Controlling Disgrace is a standalone but you have to read the whole Control series. One of my favourite series and truly awesome to read.

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a copy of the book for an honest review.

When I first read about how Colette started the fury that unleashed on James, I didn’t know what she has said that was so bad that her brothers would cause the harm to James that they did. The Prologue was perfect to explain what really happened. Colette’s shame was the pleasure and enjoyment of the physical connection with James. She felt loved with his gifts. Her shame came from the ignorance of her brothers from their brain-washing of the couple that took them in and off the streets. Colette was harmed by her brothers. My heart ached for everything Colette went through.

When Colette was hospitalized, the efforts of James and Amy put Michael in Colette’s life. He willingly agreed to answer any and all Colette’s questions on the BDSM lifestyle to help her heal. Michael and Colette fit together and helped each other heal. This is a beautiful story.

Being a novella, this was a quick read yet one you wouldn’t want to miss because it filled the Colette gap. Now, who the hell is Ryan??? LOL!!! I’m waiting!!!! :)

[Julia Gerard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my! What a story! Michael saves Colette from herself, and allows her to grow to be "Normal" not afraid, not ashamed, normal, this is something she's never known. Raised in a uber religious home, no tv, no electronics NO SEXUALITY. Sex was for child bearing only! But a Visit from James North sends Michael to see Colette in the hospital, and he brings her normal..... But like all of Anna stories, things aren't easy, there is drama to get to the happy! This is a wonderful series and this novella adds to it perfectly!

[Dianna Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed and ARC of this book for an honest review. I love Anna Edwards. I love how she writes a realistic story. This story is about Micheal and Collette. Both helping each other through life.

[Teresa Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love series♡Love Michael and Collette story short broken beautiful Emotional book.need more

[Becky Wise · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick little number. Controlling Disgrace is fantastic look into the BDSM life style for a beginner. With Colette you feel for her. The way she was raised and treated by her brothers its amazing she comes out searching for a normal. Oppressed but takes the new life style so easily. I love how Michael nurtures her and eases her into the life style. Shows her that its okay to want a normal life and there is nothing wrong with sex. Anna Edwards did an amazing job with this novella.

[Vikki Purcell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Asked by a friend to help Michael goes and sees what he can do. A man who still mourns the loss of a beloveded wife he doesn't expect to find love again

Colette has to learn to live. Her life had been spent following yhe rules of her brothers and cult. Responsibility for what had happened to James she is surprised when he sends someone to help teach her not all is bad

When the past comes to bring her bavk to the cult Michael and his friends stop at nothing to save Colette.

[Paula Genereau · Rating 5 out of 5]

what a book. I'm hooked on this series. It will suck you in fast and hard and you'll love it

[Bea Brugge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed hearing more about Colette. I disliked her tremendously for what happened to James because of her. She was also very rude and short with Amy. After hearing more of her story my heart broke for her. Michael saved her from mental abuse caused by her “fake” parents. He taught her that what she felt was “normal”

This is one of my favorite series and I will be so sad to see it end. Love The Control Series.

[April Symes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time reading this author and also reading the Controlling series but I had no problems picking up where this short novella was going.

Michael saves Colette from herself, from things that popped up from her past that hurt her. He teaches her that “normal” is just a word and her body and her sexuality is something to cherish, not to be afraid of or to think is evil. Michael really helps Colette after the damage done to her by her ultra-religious family. There is drama due to her family and the past , there is angst but there is also hope, passion and love. I really enjoyed reading Controlling Disgrace and am going to read all in this series by Anna Edwards. Very Good!


My Rating: 4.5 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Controlling Disgrace by Anna Edwards is a must read! I think that her books get better with everyone that I have read. Her writing style is easy flowing and creative. She can make the book come alive like no other that I have read. I read this book in one sitting, I couldn't put it down. Her characters took me on a journey of twists and turns that left me needing ice water to cool off one minute and asking what was they thinking in the next. This story is about a man who doesn't know how to move on from loss until someone walks into it that will change everything. Colette is a woman who has been carrying around a burden and is afraid to show her sexual side. What will happen when she meets Michael? Will he be able to open her up? Michael is suffering from the loss of a loved one and feels there is no hope. Then he meets Colette and everything seems to change for him. Will these two heal each other? Will fate allow them to have a happy ever after? These two have such great chemistry together. They are both very strong characters that know what they want out of life but they have been through somethings. I loved watching them grow throughout the story. They certainly will heat up the sheets and leave you wanting more. I highly recommend this story. Find out if Michael and Colette find a happy ending by lefting themselves heal.

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

First let me say I am always hesitant with novellas. I never think they can fully develop characters and I was concerned because Colette seemed like a character that had so much to say that I worried a novella would not do her justice. I should never doubt Anna Edwards ability to create a masterpiece.

This story tugs at the heart. It touches on so much: cults, abuse, mental health issues, the loss of a loved one etc. It takes a character one could judge as broken and reminds a person that broken isn't the right word. Thankfully Michael saw strength. I will never look at the word disgrace the same ever again.

The most powerful ability the author has is the fact she can weave more that the main characters together, the supporting cast we have come to know and love are right there for the journey. I loved every second of this read. In fact, in some ways it has been my favorite--not an easy feat for a novella and definitely nothing that has happened in the past.

Be prepared for a heartbreaking, grab the tissues, and fall in love story. Know that Anna Edwards can take you on a journey so few authors. I personally am thankful for that.

Highly recommend. 5 stars, very well deserved!

[Badh · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this world, nothing is easy, nothing is simple, and things aren't what you think they are. Anna Edwards has done really well to make you feel what her characters are feeling and what their motivations are. She's done that really well here, with Collette.

When she was a young woman, Colette and James North were lovers. In a time and place where she didn't feel loved or valued, he made her feel good about herself and made her feel beautiful. When her evil, evil brothers found out, they did terrible things to her, and beat the horrible crap out of James North.

Now, many years later, her brothers are gone and Colette's life has changed. Right now she's trying to figure out what her normal is. Michael is there to help her. At first he just showed up to answer her questions, but he knew that she was his as soon as he saw her.

This story is about a journey and growth. Colette starts out as a caterpillar and turns into a butterfly at the end of it because of her own strength and Michael's help. More than just a love story between a man and a woman, it's a love story about a woman coming to love herself.

[Stephanie Erickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edwards keeps me coming back for more! Even in this short little Novella!

Collette has been raised by her brothers who were brought into the folds of a cult. After losing both of their parents they are lost into the system and were living on the streets.

Collette ran to her brothers after she has a relationship James North that turns out to be different. Her brothers enslave her into the cults rituals for punishment of cleansing her from the devil.

Years later after that event, she is institutionalized and her brothers are both dead. Michael is sent in to talk with Collette about questions she has about BDSM relationships. He discusses with her the fact that he is a widower whom lost his wife to an attack by a student.

Can Michael help Collette embrace her future from the engrained learnings of the terrible cult she has grown up with? Can Collette help Michael live a life with love again?

[Stephanie Ditmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader copy of this book. Another amazing book from Anna. I loved reading about Collette. This was finally her turn, for her story and a look into who she is and why she is the way she is. She has followed her bothers rules and their way of life as long as she can remember and now with them gone, she has to live for herself. When James sends someone to help Collette, she’s surprise that he’s helping after what she put him through. When Michael shows up to help Collette and answer any and all questions regarding BDSM, he can’t help but feel for her. It’s something he never thought would ever happen again, since his wife. This book is drama filled, is full of angst, passion, love and the hope for healing. Loved this book, highly recommend it. It’s a must read, the series as a whole is a must read!

[Wall to Wall Bookshelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

After what Colette Fisher done in the past to James North, there's no reason that he should be wanting to help her - but that's exactly what he does.


Colette has been brought up thinking that everything about sex is bad, that sex is only for procreation, that enjoying sex is wrong. She was punished for thinking otherwise. She's always been curious and now she wants to know more.


Michael Peterson has been asked to help. After losing his wife, he thought he'd never find anyone as special again, until he meets Colette. He offers her a job and place to stay to help her feel more normal.


We get to learn more about what happened all that time ago. Colette is so timid and almost child-like, we should hate her but I found myself feeling bad for her after everything that she's been through. Michael is teaching her that there's more to her than her past and her scars.


I loved this short novella from the Control Series. Although it's part of the series it can be read as a standalone. That being said, if you want to know more about the background characters, read the full series - you won't regret it.

[Jennifer Ingalls · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first began reading, I was confused and shocked by what was going on. However, I continued reading and it all began to make sense.
Collette’s life is not an easy one. She has faced many personal challenges in her young life and is chastised by the ones closest to her for living what we would consider a “normal” life. Now, years later Collette begins to get the help she needs to change her life and flourish. Much of this change is done with a strong guiding hand provided by Michael who shows Collette healing through BDSM.
Great insights into a lifestyle and growth of characters can be found in this novella. Anna Edwards does a very good job immersing you into what her characters are feeling and what drives their actions.
Overall, I was very impressed with Anna Edwards and this story. Now I am excited to go back and read more stories from this series.

[Hanan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book delves onto the past of Colette and shows how she became the woman she is at present.
This is a short but it’s packed to the brim.
Colette has not only lived a shelter life but one of abuse as well.
Not the normal abuse that comes to mind. But one where also her mind is conditioned into believing
certain things and in certain ways.
When Michael enters her life he’s determined to break the hold the past has over Colette.
He’s patient and kind with her. Supportive and has given her a chance at a new start.
Together they are stronger both trying to overcome painful experiences and may be able to heal one another.
But the past comes knocking into their future.
I enjoyed Controlling Disgrace very much.

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella was a pleasant surprise. If you have read other books in this series you should be well acquainted with the character of Collette. She was not portrayed as a vey likable character at all. Now with this book though the layers are peeled away and we get are first complete, in-depth look into what makes Collette tick and it is eye opening. You will be moved, horrified and feel great sympathy for her. Michael was just perfect for her. Patient, understanding and carrying his own burden of pain and loss, these two helped heal each other while falling in love. A beautiful, emotional romance. I am posting a totally voluntary, honest review after reading this book.

[Heather Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like always another hit by Anna Edwards !
After reading the whole series so far I was a little worried about how I would find this book but I must admit to being sucked in to another wonderfully written book by Anna....
⚠️ I have only two warnings ⚠️
One, definitely has triggers in this book please don't read this whole series if u have triggers that involve violence ...
Two, u really need to read these books in order to understand the back stories...


Now I have to wait months for the next book in this awesome panty melting alpha male wanting series ! Gggrrrrr time better go quick lol

[Saskia · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is a novella in the Control world. I haven’t read the rest of the series. You can read the book as a standalone, but I still had questions while reading.

Poor Colette had been dealt a bad hand of cards until she meets Michael. Michael is dealing with his own pain. He offers Collete a change at a new life where she can free and not feel guilty about her feelings. It was good to see her blossom and explore new things. And become comfortable in her own skin.

[Yvonne Eason · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first met Collette I want too sure about her. She was he reason James was beaten so badly. Collette's brothers taught her a lesson. A lesson that she also did not come away from un-scarred.

Michael, well there is nothing bad I can and would say about that man. He has the temperament and understanding to help Collette realise that what she feels isn't dirty and is 'normal'.

Michael does have his own Demons though and maybe together they can help each other.

[Cindy Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven’t read any of the books in this series, but I found this book very interesting!
Colette has been through a lot in her life and Michael is trying to help her. He had been through a lot in his life and thought he was the man for her.
I really enjoyed this novella!
Now I have to read the previous books in this series!

[Maria Varley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. This is Colettes book. Colette was the one who got James beaten years before now however after the death of her brothers is in a hospital. James has asked Michael a good friend to speak to Colette and answer all her questions on BDSM. However he soon finds himself falling for her.
Will the pair end up together or will the past win find out in this book.

[Frances · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Control worth having....

Controlling Disgrace is a good novella. It tells the story of Colette, and what happens to her after James North. She has to overcome some of the terrible things that was told to her. This is the six book in this series and it's good to see what was the reason behind the whole James and Colette story.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start by saying I love The Control Series and this novella is a great addition. Love the way Michael was with Collette so protective and patient. He's perfect for her and helps her deal with her past. Anna Edwards is one of my favorite authors and I look forward to reading anything she writes. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Kerry · Rating 2 out of 5]

Could've been so much more but sadly it feels like a rushed story. Shame because this had the potential to be amazing. Started out so well, was very excited to see it end well but Colette and Michael's story just became unbelievable and I wanted to see more of their relationship build up and the recovery of them both 😔