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Power Exchange #4
Restraint
Who brings a Glock on a honeymoon?
Not retired detective Gavin DeGrassi. When his husband Ben asks who he plans to shoot, Gavin has no answer. They’re spending three weeks in Ben’s family cabin near Seattle, not chasing down bad guys. Or are they?
Ben finds evidence the car accident that claimed his parents’ lives more than fifteen years ago was not so accidental. To avenge the Haversons, Gavin dusts off his detective skills and unknowingly paints a target on their backs. Suddenly, Ben is the prime suspect in a crime and the message couldn’t be clearer: drop the investigation or suffer untold consequences.
Gavin will stop at nothing to ensure Ben’s safety and bring the Haversons’ killers to justice, but without help, they’re sitting ducks. Gavin must make unlikely allies in his quest to clear Ben’s name and stop a ruthless crime syndicate. But with his loyalties divided, how far is too far in his quest for justice?
Not retired detective Gavin DeGrassi. When his husband Ben asks who he plans to shoot, Gavin has no answer. They’re spending three weeks in Ben’s family cabin near Seattle, not chasing down bad guys. Or are they?
Ben finds evidence the car accident that claimed his parents’ lives more than fifteen years ago was not so accidental. To avenge the Haversons, Gavin dusts off his detective skills and unknowingly paints a target on their backs. Suddenly, Ben is the prime suspect in a crime and the message couldn’t be clearer: drop the investigation or suffer untold consequences.
Gavin will stop at nothing to ensure Ben’s safety and bring the Haversons’ killers to justice, but without help, they’re sitting ducks. Gavin must make unlikely allies in his quest to clear Ben’s name and stop a ruthless crime syndicate. But with his loyalties divided, how far is too far in his quest for justice?
354 pages, ebook
First published April 27, 2018
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447 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
May 15, 2018
***2.5 - 3 Stars***
Honestly? I have no bloody clue what went wrong here...
I loved loved LOVED the first three books in this series, although they haven't been an easy read at times - or maybe because of that? - and for me as a non-fan of BDSM this is really saying something.
This one here was like pulling teeth. Where I loved the mystery part in all previous books which had me sometimes read through my fingers, here it fell somehow flat. I didn't really buy to which extent Gavin would go as a former detective to circumvent the law and roping Ben into it and put him in danger didn't fit the impression I got from him so far.
Overall I might have enjoyed it more if there hadn't been too many unnecessary details. Too much telling, not enough showing. The first half almost bored me to death and I even considered a DNF - multiple times actually - but we are talking about Ben and Gavin here, for Christ's sake, so I just refused to give up on them. The second half finally picked up and I thought 'NOW we are talking!', but instead of getting somewhere it only got drawn-out again, before the last 10% reminded me once more why I love this series. I only wish that would have happened sooner and I'm sure my rating would have been higher, then.
What I also always loved was the dynamics in the relationship between Ben and Gavin. Here they somehow didn't get enough time to show it. Instead Gavin still had some doubts if he would be enough for Ben and thought he would have to prove himself to him. Again. And I was like WTH? Didn't you already prove that often enough? On the other hand, Ben's behavior during one scene bordered on manipulation for me. Even if it might have been for Gavin's own good, to show him what he is capable of, it didn't sit right with me.
I decided to round my rating up to 3 stars, for one thing because of the ending and for another thing because of Leo. This guy had me intrigued and I would so love to get his story. A girl can dream, right?
Don't mind me, though. The fact that I didn't really enjoy this book could totally be my current mood, and that I'm in the minority here might be proof of that. After two amazing reads in a rowe, I just knew my next book would be a tough act to follow and I thought I would be on the safe side with this book. You might get my disappointment when I was proven wrong. I hope you will enjoy it more than I did!
Honestly? I have no bloody clue what went wrong here...
I loved loved LOVED the first three books in this series, although they haven't been an easy read at times - or maybe because of that? - and for me as a non-fan of BDSM this is really saying something.
This one here was like pulling teeth. Where I loved the mystery part in all previous books which had me sometimes read through my fingers, here it fell somehow flat. I didn't really buy to which extent Gavin would go as a former detective to circumvent the law and roping Ben into it and put him in danger didn't fit the impression I got from him so far.
Overall I might have enjoyed it more if there hadn't been too many unnecessary details. Too much telling, not enough showing. The first half almost bored me to death and I even considered a DNF - multiple times actually - but we are talking about Ben and Gavin here, for Christ's sake, so I just refused to give up on them. The second half finally picked up and I thought 'NOW we are talking!', but instead of getting somewhere it only got drawn-out again, before the last 10% reminded me once more why I love this series. I only wish that would have happened sooner and I'm sure my rating would have been higher, then.
What I also always loved was the dynamics in the relationship between Ben and Gavin. Here they somehow didn't get enough time to show it. Instead Gavin still had some doubts if he would be enough for Ben and thought he would have to prove himself to him. Again. And I was like WTH? Didn't you already prove that often enough? On the other hand, Ben's behavior during one scene bordered on manipulation for me. Even if it might have been for Gavin's own good, to show him what he is capable of, it didn't sit right with me.
I decided to round my rating up to 3 stars, for one thing because of the ending and for another thing because of Leo. This guy had me intrigued and I would so love to get his story. A girl can dream, right?
Don't mind me, though. The fact that I didn't really enjoy this book could totally be my current mood, and that I'm in the minority here might be proof of that. After two amazing reads in a rowe, I just knew my next book would be a tough act to follow and I thought I would be on the safe side with this book. You might get my disappointment when I was proven wrong. I hope you will enjoy it more than I did!
May 7, 2018
Rating: 4* of five
One entire star off for twelve (12) instances of the w-verb.
***later***
Seriously. Using any out-of-the-ordinary word twelve times in your book should be a red flag for an author. What am I shorthanding here? Why does this particular word need to be in my book this many times? Y'all'd agree with me if it was "coddiwomple" or "absquatulate" you know you would. "Wink" *shudder* is just as uncommon a word in every other branch of fiction writing beyond MM romance.
Anyway.
The story here is what happens when Ben, our Dom, goes back to his childhood summer home with Gavin, his sub, to celebrate their honeymoon. It's a delightful idea, the men going to gorgeous Seattle for some smexytimes; but this isn't to be. The smexytimes are really not the point. And that's a wonderful thing.
Seriously! It is!
The relationship between partners in a D/s situation matures with the parties involved as it does in all long-term relationships. With that maturity comes the change of sex life. Not lessening. Not death. Just change. In Ben and Gavin's relationship, their routinizing of D/s doesn't require them to compulsively repeat the same acts. They move deeper into each others' cores and negotiate the introduction of far more intimate and demanding behaviors. It is very much one of my pleasures in reading this series to enjoy this evolution of the characters' interactions.
Being a series novel, there are cameos by characters we've met before; the fact that the entire DeGrassi clan is having Thanksgiving back in St. Louis without the men is played off well. And Gavin's call to a St. Louis source for some crucial help is answered, despite the risk to his helper.
I like the honesty I see about D/s relationships in the series. It's hard for Ben to give up control; it's hard for him to feel helpless or actually useless in any situation where his earthly treasure, Gavin, is threatened. Every good Dom knows that horrible reality and, if we're at all honest, the creeping fear that our treasured sub will realize "hey! I don't need him after all!" and walk away. Ah, the joys of anxiety! All humans suffer from it. And so very few of us do the simple, smart thing and open up to our most trusted, most beloved partners. How very much pain would be mitigated or even disappeared by this simple, monumental, impossible act!
But such are the musings of one with no dog in this fight anymore. In common with all readers, I use books to teach me the truths I refused to accept from reality. Reading all four books in this series makes me long for a second chance to be young...as do all the other books I read. A joyous ache, a happy poignance, a learnèd innocence. How I pity those who aren't fellow addicts.
One entire star off for twelve (12) instances of the w-verb.
***later***
Seriously. Using any out-of-the-ordinary word twelve times in your book should be a red flag for an author. What am I shorthanding here? Why does this particular word need to be in my book this many times? Y'all'd agree with me if it was "coddiwomple" or "absquatulate" you know you would. "Wink" *shudder* is just as uncommon a word in every other branch of fiction writing beyond MM romance.
Anyway.
The story here is what happens when Ben, our Dom, goes back to his childhood summer home with Gavin, his sub, to celebrate their honeymoon. It's a delightful idea, the men going to gorgeous Seattle for some smexytimes; but this isn't to be. The smexytimes are really not the point. And that's a wonderful thing.
Seriously! It is!
The relationship between partners in a D/s situation matures with the parties involved as it does in all long-term relationships. With that maturity comes the change of sex life. Not lessening. Not death. Just change. In Ben and Gavin's relationship, their routinizing of D/s doesn't require them to compulsively repeat the same acts. They move deeper into each others' cores and negotiate the introduction of far more intimate and demanding behaviors. It is very much one of my pleasures in reading this series to enjoy this evolution of the characters' interactions.
Being a series novel, there are cameos by characters we've met before; the fact that the entire DeGrassi clan is having Thanksgiving back in St. Louis without the men is played off well. And Gavin's call to a St. Louis source for some crucial help is answered, despite the risk to his helper.
I like the honesty I see about D/s relationships in the series. It's hard for Ben to give up control; it's hard for him to feel helpless or actually useless in any situation where his earthly treasure, Gavin, is threatened. Every good Dom knows that horrible reality and, if we're at all honest, the creeping fear that our treasured sub will realize "hey! I don't need him after all!" and walk away. Ah, the joys of anxiety! All humans suffer from it. And so very few of us do the simple, smart thing and open up to our most trusted, most beloved partners. How very much pain would be mitigated or even disappeared by this simple, monumental, impossible act!
But such are the musings of one with no dog in this fight anymore. In common with all readers, I use books to teach me the truths I refused to accept from reality. Reading all four books in this series makes me long for a second chance to be young...as do all the other books I read. A joyous ache, a happy poignance, a learnèd innocence. How I pity those who aren't fellow addicts.
January 8, 2020
Another lovely Ben and Gavin story. I always liked their relationship and their dynamics in particular. While many BDSM books focus more on staging the scenes and impact play has a major role in defining D/s relationship, the unique way Ben dominates Gavin and the way Gavin feels his submission is a very welcome change from regular mark. More than ever the meaning of the name series Power Exchange resonates strongly throughout the book.
The first part of the book was a bit slower paced than I would have liked, but the second part picked up really well in terms of suspense and a bit of angst. New characters introduced while initially a bit irritating turned to be worth knowing, and I honestly want to read their journey to their HEA. There were requisite intimate moments that as always were well written and showcased the meaning of submission and the depth of feelings between Ben and Gavin. While at the beginning I was miffed at the subject of the case, later I warmed up to it. A.J. Rose made a good case and brought enough intrigue to get me excited about the investigation. That said I don't know if I want to read any more about Ben and Gavin since it seems they have reached their happy ever after and every single issue between them has been resolved. It's been an adventure, for sure.
The first part of the book was a bit slower paced than I would have liked, but the second part picked up really well in terms of suspense and a bit of angst. New characters introduced while initially a bit irritating turned to be worth knowing, and I honestly want to read their journey to their HEA. There were requisite intimate moments that as always were well written and showcased the meaning of submission and the depth of feelings between Ben and Gavin. While at the beginning I was miffed at the subject of the case, later I warmed up to it. A.J. Rose made a good case and brought enough intrigue to get me excited about the investigation. That said I don't know if I want to read any more about Ben and Gavin since it seems they have reached their happy ever after and every single issue between them has been resolved. It's been an adventure, for sure.
July 21, 2024
✰ 2 stars ✰
“I’m the lucky one who gets to have you. They get a show for a few minutes. I get you for the rest of my life.”
The final installment of Power Exchange has Ben and Gavin teaming up once once more while on their honeymoon to uncover the truth behind the supposed accidental death of Ben's parents. These startling truths that their death was no accident, but rather a murder that went beyond the realm of their expectations and exploitations, and ones which will have them setting aside their own constituents and beliefs to pull off an elaborate and dangerous heist with a snarky if not sassy thief who will teach, push, prove and remind them of what was still missing in their dynamic, in order for them to truly move on. 🫡 'When you’re battling the unscrupulous, sometimes you have to become unscrupulous yourself.' To finally remove the last shackles of Restraint, their past memories still had claim over their hearts and each other.
Boring with a capital B.
Okay, I'm just being harsh.
Or am I... 🙃
“When you’re battling the unscrupulous, sometimes you have to become unscrupulous yourself.
Otherwise, you end up in a gunfight with only your fists.”
I do get why this final chapter in their lives was necessary for Ben and Gavin to reclaim the parts of them that had been taken from them by force. Gavin - you are definitely not in my list of best protagonists of the year, but I won't deny that you deeply cared for Ben - went to Hell and back for him time and time again. It was a prime opportunity for Gavin to relight the fiercy police flair in him - 'that disused voice in my head goaded me, crackling to life to remind me how much I’d loved being a detective' - and also to prove and remind Ben that they are a team. 🩶🤍
We never forget how Gavin trusts Ben explicitly and implicitly - that he would hand the reins over to him without fail, because Ben is infallible in his eyes - a hero in every sense of the word. That when Ben is the one hurt and weak, he will be there to help put those broken pieces back together, because he can never return in kind the gratitude for how much Ben means to him That if Ben asked - not as his Dom, but as his partner, and his lover, he would walk into fire for him. That he would do impossible deeds, simply to show that his love is irrefutable. That he is here to stay. ❤️🩹🫂
“They watch you take me, and they realize they will never have it as good as we do. They’re too scared to give absolutely everything to each other the way we do.”
I think what the author was trying to portray, and what I failed to grasp from the covers alone, is that power play does not only exist in the bedroom or their dungeons or the kinky situations the couple assign themselves. It's an exchange of mutual respect and trust that also works in one's relationship - in a healthy and positive manner. 🥺 One in which neither Ben nor Gavin ever push those limits to enforce their will or convince the other to act in a way that is disapproving. To assert Gavin as the man who knows how to work as a crime investigator, or Ben to be the suave rich gentleman who can coerce information out of others in his own unique way.
Their relationship is tantamount to their survival - not only against forces working at large to destroy them, but their own inner demons and conflicted thoughts that prevent them from recognizing their inner strength - the promise they both gain in each other's presence that makes their marriage and their being together so strong - promise, fear, love, devotion, hope, and determination. And yet, it it is these waning thoughts and shifts in their personality is what made them fall into the hands of Leo - the guilty perpetrator for more than one offense - but also someone who brings about the fold of the two of them finally reaching a breaking point - making a breakthrough in their paths and lives that they had pushed aside for too long. 😥 He teases and prods and pokes with just enough vitality and vitrole to make either of them see where they were in the wrong and how to better change those aspects of their dynamic.
“Come back to me,” he said when I let him up for air.
“Yes, Sir. With the evidence we need.”
“Even if you don’t get it, come back to me.”
And that is perhaps the only redeeming factor of this crime procedural drama that I really - kinda glazed over as I read along. I wasn't interested in the happenings of how Ben and Leo's fates were linked as much as watching Gavin squirm and be annoyed by his presence. The thief had charm and appeal, and it is a shame that since 2018 there is no sign of future stories for him. Him finding the sugar daddy he so desperately sought would be a nice pay-off to all the misadventures and misfortunes that landed him in the situation he was in. Watching the three of them play off each other was interesting and I liked how he tempted and taunted the Doc and the Dick - sorry, Ben and Gavin. 😏 But, it was nice then to see how they did start to care for him and appreciate his input, as well as his thoughtfulness and opinions.
While the writing continues to be quite strong - the plot progresses swiftly at a fast-pace, I think where my disappointment mainly comes from is how I came for the BDSM element - but never really got a clear-cut version of it - rather a clinical one that felt dictative rather than a feeling on - one where the emotions and the actions played off each other in a tangible way. It's a shame when the chemistry in the bedroom feels so detached that you feel bored throughout the entire scene. 😕 It could also have been my own fault for expecting more on that front - considering how selectively appealing the covers were. In retrospect, though, if I do dare venture deeper into bdsm-based stories, I will keep it in mind how other pairings and authors approach it, and if the subtle nuances that the author touched upon - the balance of giving and taking and what it means to allow someone to hold that much power over you and what it means and gains in return - are ones that play a part with them, as well. 🙏🏻
In any case, this was probably the weakest of the quartet; despite the closure Ben gained from this chance occurrence, despite how resolute and firm the two of them were in their affection for each other, despite Leo bringing some slight charm and pizazz to the setting, it was very hard to stay entirely invested - nay, care enough for the actual case, itself. It seemed a bit arbitrary to me, too, for it to suddenly be thrown out the way it was, but, oh well. You win some, you lose some. 🤷🏻♀️
“I’m the lucky one who gets to have you. They get a show for a few minutes. I get you for the rest of my life.”
The final installment of Power Exchange has Ben and Gavin teaming up once once more while on their honeymoon to uncover the truth behind the supposed accidental death of Ben's parents. These startling truths that their death was no accident, but rather a murder that went beyond the realm of their expectations and exploitations, and ones which will have them setting aside their own constituents and beliefs to pull off an elaborate and dangerous heist with a snarky if not sassy thief who will teach, push, prove and remind them of what was still missing in their dynamic, in order for them to truly move on. 🫡 'When you’re battling the unscrupulous, sometimes you have to become unscrupulous yourself.' To finally remove the last shackles of Restraint, their past memories still had claim over their hearts and each other.
Boring with a capital B.
Okay, I'm just being harsh.
Or am I... 🙃
“When you’re battling the unscrupulous, sometimes you have to become unscrupulous yourself.
Otherwise, you end up in a gunfight with only your fists.”
I do get why this final chapter in their lives was necessary for Ben and Gavin to reclaim the parts of them that had been taken from them by force. Gavin - you are definitely not in my list of best protagonists of the year, but I won't deny that you deeply cared for Ben - went to Hell and back for him time and time again. It was a prime opportunity for Gavin to relight the fiercy police flair in him - 'that disused voice in my head goaded me, crackling to life to remind me how much I’d loved being a detective' - and also to prove and remind Ben that they are a team. 🩶🤍
We never forget how Gavin trusts Ben explicitly and implicitly - that he would hand the reins over to him without fail, because Ben is infallible in his eyes - a hero in every sense of the word. That when Ben is the one hurt and weak, he will be there to help put those broken pieces back together, because he can never return in kind the gratitude for how much Ben means to him That if Ben asked - not as his Dom, but as his partner, and his lover, he would walk into fire for him. That he would do impossible deeds, simply to show that his love is irrefutable. That he is here to stay. ❤️🩹🫂
“They watch you take me, and they realize they will never have it as good as we do. They’re too scared to give absolutely everything to each other the way we do.”
I think what the author was trying to portray, and what I failed to grasp from the covers alone, is that power play does not only exist in the bedroom or their dungeons or the kinky situations the couple assign themselves. It's an exchange of mutual respect and trust that also works in one's relationship - in a healthy and positive manner. 🥺 One in which neither Ben nor Gavin ever push those limits to enforce their will or convince the other to act in a way that is disapproving. To assert Gavin as the man who knows how to work as a crime investigator, or Ben to be the suave rich gentleman who can coerce information out of others in his own unique way.
Their relationship is tantamount to their survival - not only against forces working at large to destroy them, but their own inner demons and conflicted thoughts that prevent them from recognizing their inner strength - the promise they both gain in each other's presence that makes their marriage and their being together so strong - promise, fear, love, devotion, hope, and determination. And yet, it it is these waning thoughts and shifts in their personality is what made them fall into the hands of Leo - the guilty perpetrator for more than one offense - but also someone who brings about the fold of the two of them finally reaching a breaking point - making a breakthrough in their paths and lives that they had pushed aside for too long. 😥 He teases and prods and pokes with just enough vitality and vitrole to make either of them see where they were in the wrong and how to better change those aspects of their dynamic.
“Come back to me,” he said when I let him up for air.
“Yes, Sir. With the evidence we need.”
“Even if you don’t get it, come back to me.”
And that is perhaps the only redeeming factor of this crime procedural drama that I really - kinda glazed over as I read along. I wasn't interested in the happenings of how Ben and Leo's fates were linked as much as watching Gavin squirm and be annoyed by his presence. The thief had charm and appeal, and it is a shame that since 2018 there is no sign of future stories for him. Him finding the sugar daddy he so desperately sought would be a nice pay-off to all the misadventures and misfortunes that landed him in the situation he was in. Watching the three of them play off each other was interesting and I liked how he tempted and taunted the Doc and the Dick - sorry, Ben and Gavin. 😏 But, it was nice then to see how they did start to care for him and appreciate his input, as well as his thoughtfulness and opinions.
While the writing continues to be quite strong - the plot progresses swiftly at a fast-pace, I think where my disappointment mainly comes from is how I came for the BDSM element - but never really got a clear-cut version of it - rather a clinical one that felt dictative rather than a feeling on - one where the emotions and the actions played off each other in a tangible way. It's a shame when the chemistry in the bedroom feels so detached that you feel bored throughout the entire scene. 😕 It could also have been my own fault for expecting more on that front - considering how selectively appealing the covers were. In retrospect, though, if I do dare venture deeper into bdsm-based stories, I will keep it in mind how other pairings and authors approach it, and if the subtle nuances that the author touched upon - the balance of giving and taking and what it means to allow someone to hold that much power over you and what it means and gains in return - are ones that play a part with them, as well. 🙏🏻
In any case, this was probably the weakest of the quartet; despite the closure Ben gained from this chance occurrence, despite how resolute and firm the two of them were in their affection for each other, despite Leo bringing some slight charm and pizazz to the setting, it was very hard to stay entirely invested - nay, care enough for the actual case, itself. It seemed a bit arbitrary to me, too, for it to suddenly be thrown out the way it was, but, oh well. You win some, you lose some. 🤷🏻♀️
May 14, 2018
I'm not sure what to think. The kink I loved felt awkward here - like it didn't fit but it had to be put in regardless. No issue with Ben the Dom having a bit of crisis and needing support but here the relationship just lacked all pizzaz. I didn't care too much about the mystery - and this felt more like a setup for Leo's book in the future - who I'll admit I'm super curious as to where he is and what he is doing.
Gavin felt a bit off here - maybe that was intentional because Ben was off and the relationship is so symbiotic that both are affected to a far greater degree if something is wrong. I think here it was the first time though I felt it was so sort of unbalanced and not so healthy for some reason. IDK - though the mystery of what happened to Ben's parents was sort of interesting I'd never "met" them so their murder was not so impactful to me.
On the plus side - I did love Leo - what a character!
Gavin felt a bit off here - maybe that was intentional because Ben was off and the relationship is so symbiotic that both are affected to a far greater degree if something is wrong. I think here it was the first time though I felt it was so sort of unbalanced and not so healthy for some reason. IDK - though the mystery of what happened to Ben's parents was sort of interesting I'd never "met" them so their murder was not so impactful to me.
On the plus side - I did love Leo - what a character!
May 1, 2018
This picks up just after the last book ended, with Ben and Gavin setting out on a three-week honeymoon to Ben's childhood home in Washington State. From the get-go we're assured that Ben and Gavin are happier than ever as a couple and that Gavin is never happier than when he is fully submitting to Ben.
Like the other books in the series, the mystery is the main focus but it is much less intense and brutal than the prior books. In fact, there is plenty of old-fashioned detective work as Gavin is back in his element helping to figure out what happened to Ben's parents and who is targeting Ben by framing him for an art heist. When the investigation leads them to a mouthy art thief named Leo the low-key investigation gets a little bit louder and a lot more dangerous.
Besides the difference in the story's intensity, this is the first book where we get a good look at Ben's family and background. The revelation that his parents’ accident was more likely murder opens a new well of grief in Ben. His inability to control the situation has him on an emotional rollercoaster, at times shutting down and at times agitated. There are plenty of moments when they are not on the same page and when Gavin feels that Ben is not giving his investigative knowledge, skills and intuition credit. We all know Gavin is not weak, but within the relationship it is Ben who is the one in control. It's what works best for them both, but Gavin realizes he needs to step up into the role in order to comfort Ben and give him the strength he needs in order to regain his equilibrium.
Both men are still dealing with the fallout of their capture and the events in the prior books and this is especially clear in Gavin, who still can’t allow himself to be fully restrained by Ben and still has moments of panic during their scenes. It's these scenes of Domination and submission when the love and trust are solidly reaffirmed for both. Ben is so in tune with Gavin’s needs and pushes his limits just the right amount to rebuild his confidence. Their devotion to each other makes every scene between them that much more beautiful.
While I did miss some of the intensity of the prior books, I loved getting a little bit of a different look at Ben and Gavin's relationship and learning more about Ben. They are a favorite couple of mine and I like that their relationship continues to grow four books in. Leo was great entertainment and a wonderful secondary character who wormed his way into my heart. His interference in their life provided them the setup for a pivotal moment and I hope that someday we will get to see the results play out since I will always hope for more Ben and Gavin.
Like the other books in the series, the mystery is the main focus but it is much less intense and brutal than the prior books. In fact, there is plenty of old-fashioned detective work as Gavin is back in his element helping to figure out what happened to Ben's parents and who is targeting Ben by framing him for an art heist. When the investigation leads them to a mouthy art thief named Leo the low-key investigation gets a little bit louder and a lot more dangerous.
Besides the difference in the story's intensity, this is the first book where we get a good look at Ben's family and background. The revelation that his parents’ accident was more likely murder opens a new well of grief in Ben. His inability to control the situation has him on an emotional rollercoaster, at times shutting down and at times agitated. There are plenty of moments when they are not on the same page and when Gavin feels that Ben is not giving his investigative knowledge, skills and intuition credit. We all know Gavin is not weak, but within the relationship it is Ben who is the one in control. It's what works best for them both, but Gavin realizes he needs to step up into the role in order to comfort Ben and give him the strength he needs in order to regain his equilibrium.
Both men are still dealing with the fallout of their capture and the events in the prior books and this is especially clear in Gavin, who still can’t allow himself to be fully restrained by Ben and still has moments of panic during their scenes. It's these scenes of Domination and submission when the love and trust are solidly reaffirmed for both. Ben is so in tune with Gavin’s needs and pushes his limits just the right amount to rebuild his confidence. Their devotion to each other makes every scene between them that much more beautiful.
While I did miss some of the intensity of the prior books, I loved getting a little bit of a different look at Ben and Gavin's relationship and learning more about Ben. They are a favorite couple of mine and I like that their relationship continues to grow four books in. Leo was great entertainment and a wonderful secondary character who wormed his way into my heart. His interference in their life provided them the setup for a pivotal moment and I hope that someday we will get to see the results play out since I will always hope for more Ben and Gavin.
April 27, 2018
4.5 star review by The Blogger Girls.
Gavin and Ben are back! This time, they are spending their honeymoon moving into Ben’s uncle’s seaside “cabin” which they purchased to keep in the family. As they get settled in, Ben has the opportunity to read through his mother’s journals, kept by Ben’s uncle after her death. Ben learns that his artist mother and his father may not have died an accidental death, as previously thought, but murdered after she got too involved pursuing a shady art dealer.
Ben and Gavin are determined to get to the bottom of the murder mystery, but aren’t having much luck. Before they know it, they are thrown into some trouble of their own when Ben is fingered for a recent art theft. Their mission turns twofold as they try to clear Ben, as well as continue the search for Ben’s parents’ killer. This leads them to notorious art thief, Leo. Thinking to catch Leo in an incriminating position, they end up using Leo to help with their endeavor. Leo, it turns out, has been trying to gather evidence of his own before he can make his big escape.
There seemed to be a lot more to Leo than met the eye, and I really wanted to see him find some happiness. Hopefully he will get that chance some day. But, back to our guys. They are just as strong and devoted together as ever, and we get a few intimate scenes that really show their level of trust. This time around, however, it is Ben who needs to lean on Gavin, as much as he loathes to do so. Gavin proves that a big part of his submission and devotion includes providing for Ben in all ways, not just in their scenes. Ben is understandably still having some lingering issues from some of the things they’ve been through, and I was happy to see they didn’t get fixed overnight.
While this didn’t have quite the intensity of some of the previous books, I loved that it went in a bit of a different direction giving these guys new challenges to face. They continue to be an amazing couple leaving me wanting more of them every time. This was definitely worth the wait, and I really hope we get to see more from them in the future.
Gavin and Ben are back! This time, they are spending their honeymoon moving into Ben’s uncle’s seaside “cabin” which they purchased to keep in the family. As they get settled in, Ben has the opportunity to read through his mother’s journals, kept by Ben’s uncle after her death. Ben learns that his artist mother and his father may not have died an accidental death, as previously thought, but murdered after she got too involved pursuing a shady art dealer.
Ben and Gavin are determined to get to the bottom of the murder mystery, but aren’t having much luck. Before they know it, they are thrown into some trouble of their own when Ben is fingered for a recent art theft. Their mission turns twofold as they try to clear Ben, as well as continue the search for Ben’s parents’ killer. This leads them to notorious art thief, Leo. Thinking to catch Leo in an incriminating position, they end up using Leo to help with their endeavor. Leo, it turns out, has been trying to gather evidence of his own before he can make his big escape.
There seemed to be a lot more to Leo than met the eye, and I really wanted to see him find some happiness. Hopefully he will get that chance some day. But, back to our guys. They are just as strong and devoted together as ever, and we get a few intimate scenes that really show their level of trust. This time around, however, it is Ben who needs to lean on Gavin, as much as he loathes to do so. Gavin proves that a big part of his submission and devotion includes providing for Ben in all ways, not just in their scenes. Ben is understandably still having some lingering issues from some of the things they’ve been through, and I was happy to see they didn’t get fixed overnight.
While this didn’t have quite the intensity of some of the previous books, I loved that it went in a bit of a different direction giving these guys new challenges to face. They continue to be an amazing couple leaving me wanting more of them every time. This was definitely worth the wait, and I really hope we get to see more from them in the future.
June 3, 2018
I want another one!
Fantastic addition to what I thought was a finished trilogy. Now I want another book because there was not enough in the way of intimacy and scenes for Gavin and Ben and I want more of Leo! Their honeymoon is rudely cut short when Ben finds evidence of his parents murder, beginning an escalating series of events needing all of Gavin’s detective skills. Thankfully it was nothing as brutal as Myah’s story was. It was just as suspenseful and exciting but not as dark as any of the first three.
I loved Leo and the convoluted way he got involved with Gavin and Ben, helping resolve the mystery that grew out of proportion. I do feel it shortchanged Ben and Gavin a little but their bond was still quite evident. Gavin had to compromise some of his hard earned morals and ethics from his law-enforcement career but it was good to see him shake off some remaining shadows from book one. It also allowed Gavin to return the support and strength he’s gotten from Ben, when Ben gets close to the end of his rope (heh). Wish they’d been used a little differently!
Fantastic addition to what I thought was a finished trilogy. Now I want another book because there was not enough in the way of intimacy and scenes for Gavin and Ben and I want more of Leo! Their honeymoon is rudely cut short when Ben finds evidence of his parents murder, beginning an escalating series of events needing all of Gavin’s detective skills. Thankfully it was nothing as brutal as Myah’s story was. It was just as suspenseful and exciting but not as dark as any of the first three.
I loved Leo and the convoluted way he got involved with Gavin and Ben, helping resolve the mystery that grew out of proportion. I do feel it shortchanged Ben and Gavin a little but their bond was still quite evident. Gavin had to compromise some of his hard earned morals and ethics from his law-enforcement career but it was good to see him shake off some remaining shadows from book one. It also allowed Gavin to return the support and strength he’s gotten from Ben, when Ben gets close to the end of his rope (heh). Wish they’d been used a little differently!
dnf
June 17, 2018I’m done. I’m going to DNF this one. It’s very different from the previous 3 books. While not gruesome, at least until the 66% mark, it just wasn’t capturing my attention. Ben and Gavin seemed like very different people. This book just wasn’t for me.
July 27, 2018
Yani aslında yazılmasa da olurmuş diyeceğim bir kitaptı. Ne okuyarak bir şey kazandım ne de okumasam bir şey kaybederdim.
Öyle işte...
PS: Epilogue kısmında ortaya çıkan sürpriz sayesinde o 3. yıldız!
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😮😮 New book is coming???
Öyle işte...
PS: Epilogue kısmında ortaya çıkan sürpriz sayesinde o 3. yıldız!
-----
😮😮 New book is coming???
May 29, 2018
This is a journey that started five years ago with Power Exchange. If you are in any way a BDSM fan, then these books are very familiar to you. Or, they should be. But it’s been since 2014 since the last book was released, and frankly, after the Breath Play Killer, going on that journey with Gavin and Ben and leaving them in a comfortable and safe place, I was curious how AJ Rose was going to tackle a continuation of their story. The first three books in this series are so incredibly intense, both in the subject matter and the lifestyle relationship that is forged between our MCs. I have to say, that Rose pulled it off, for the most part. There were times that I was calling BS on how much leeway Ben gave Gavin, and there were times that I wondered if the premise was truly a solid one, but on the whole, seeing how these two men have lived and grown together as a couple was a win in my book.
We get closure in Restraint, both for the MCs and in the storyline. Gavin and Ben come full circle, old threads are sewn up, hurts are healed and a HEA firmly established in this fourth novel. This is not a standalone book; you have to read the first three to be able to really know where our MCs are and see the evolution of their relationship. Ben and Gavin have just gotten married. They are stronger and closer because of the horrendous things Gavin was subjected to by the Breath Play Killer. Neither man can refute how close they have become because of those experiences. They have had to rely on each other, find a new deeper level of trust for each other. They have fought to be where they are, and it shows.
Ben and Gavin have bought Ben’s family home in Seattle, Washington, from Ben’s uncle Oliver. Spending their honeymoon surrounded by familial things in the quiet of the Pacific Northwest is something both men are looking forward to. Ben has continuing his work as a psychiatrist and behavioral specialist, and Gavin is enjoying his work teaching at the local college in their hometown. Life is quiet. Life is good. Until Ben discovers his mother’s journals and comes face to face with the reality that his parents may have been murdered. Now, for most of us this is where the story would end, but you have to realize who these men are, and what they know how to do, and the connections they have that help them do it. So, what would be an implausible storyline for the rest of us is perfectly plausible for these two men.
It’s time to flip the tables a little bit. Gavin comes to the realization that taking care of his Dom means more than the physical, occasionally. Sometimes it’s about using your talents as a top-notch policeman to solve a mystery that is knocking your Dom off his usual equilibrium. Seeing Ben as vulnerable is something that Gavin is definitely not used to, and it’s Gavin’s turn to provide for his Dom in a way he never has had the opportunity to do. And to get a personal kick from solving the puzzle of what happened to Ben’s parents. The mystery is front and center in this book, just as in the other three, only this time it starts on a more personal note, having it be about Ben’s parents. It doesn’t get as brutal as a serial killer scenario, but it does get personal, and the intensity between the characters and what is happening around them is still there. It’s Gavin’s turn to be the emotional solid as Ben begins to fall apart the deeper into the investigation they go, and the more Ben feels out of control of his environment and his life. Once again, Ben is forced to let his lover delve into situations beyond his control and his ability to keep him safe—only this time Gavin’s doing it because Ben asked him to, and that is more than Ben is able to grasp or handle at times.
Gavin and Ben have matured. They are enjoying and reaping the benefits of being so in tune with each other, that they need each other to breathe. Ben is still pushing Gavin, stretching his limits as a sub, and the absolute faith Gavin has in Ben is breathtaking. The spot-on BDSM is still there, and the scenes in the book where Gavin gives in and becomes Ben’s everything are beautiful. Are they as intense as the previous books? No. But with maturity comes a knowing, and that is reflected here.
I read on Rose’s blog that she felt she was done with Gavin and Ben after the third book, and I have to admit reopening their story was risky for the author. I felt she paid homage to the original three while creating a storyline that opens up new arcs for some of the secondary characters. Yes, I feel we have been set up for Leo’s book, but I cannot find it in myself to care since as soon as it comes out, I will reach for it with grabby hands.
Was this fourth book as good as the first three? Yes, in its own way. It is different and follows a separate storyboard from the first three books, but that doesn’t make it bad, just different. I definitely recommend Restraint for all those familiar with the Power Exchange series. Rose is an eloquent and descriptive writer and has a way of making her characters real. I enjoyed this foray back into Ben and Gavin’s relationship, and I absolutely recommend it for all lovers of this series.
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach
We get closure in Restraint, both for the MCs and in the storyline. Gavin and Ben come full circle, old threads are sewn up, hurts are healed and a HEA firmly established in this fourth novel. This is not a standalone book; you have to read the first three to be able to really know where our MCs are and see the evolution of their relationship. Ben and Gavin have just gotten married. They are stronger and closer because of the horrendous things Gavin was subjected to by the Breath Play Killer. Neither man can refute how close they have become because of those experiences. They have had to rely on each other, find a new deeper level of trust for each other. They have fought to be where they are, and it shows.
Ben and Gavin have bought Ben’s family home in Seattle, Washington, from Ben’s uncle Oliver. Spending their honeymoon surrounded by familial things in the quiet of the Pacific Northwest is something both men are looking forward to. Ben has continuing his work as a psychiatrist and behavioral specialist, and Gavin is enjoying his work teaching at the local college in their hometown. Life is quiet. Life is good. Until Ben discovers his mother’s journals and comes face to face with the reality that his parents may have been murdered. Now, for most of us this is where the story would end, but you have to realize who these men are, and what they know how to do, and the connections they have that help them do it. So, what would be an implausible storyline for the rest of us is perfectly plausible for these two men.
It’s time to flip the tables a little bit. Gavin comes to the realization that taking care of his Dom means more than the physical, occasionally. Sometimes it’s about using your talents as a top-notch policeman to solve a mystery that is knocking your Dom off his usual equilibrium. Seeing Ben as vulnerable is something that Gavin is definitely not used to, and it’s Gavin’s turn to provide for his Dom in a way he never has had the opportunity to do. And to get a personal kick from solving the puzzle of what happened to Ben’s parents. The mystery is front and center in this book, just as in the other three, only this time it starts on a more personal note, having it be about Ben’s parents. It doesn’t get as brutal as a serial killer scenario, but it does get personal, and the intensity between the characters and what is happening around them is still there. It’s Gavin’s turn to be the emotional solid as Ben begins to fall apart the deeper into the investigation they go, and the more Ben feels out of control of his environment and his life. Once again, Ben is forced to let his lover delve into situations beyond his control and his ability to keep him safe—only this time Gavin’s doing it because Ben asked him to, and that is more than Ben is able to grasp or handle at times.
Gavin and Ben have matured. They are enjoying and reaping the benefits of being so in tune with each other, that they need each other to breathe. Ben is still pushing Gavin, stretching his limits as a sub, and the absolute faith Gavin has in Ben is breathtaking. The spot-on BDSM is still there, and the scenes in the book where Gavin gives in and becomes Ben’s everything are beautiful. Are they as intense as the previous books? No. But with maturity comes a knowing, and that is reflected here.
I read on Rose’s blog that she felt she was done with Gavin and Ben after the third book, and I have to admit reopening their story was risky for the author. I felt she paid homage to the original three while creating a storyline that opens up new arcs for some of the secondary characters. Yes, I feel we have been set up for Leo’s book, but I cannot find it in myself to care since as soon as it comes out, I will reach for it with grabby hands.
Was this fourth book as good as the first three? Yes, in its own way. It is different and follows a separate storyboard from the first three books, but that doesn’t make it bad, just different. I definitely recommend Restraint for all those familiar with the Power Exchange series. Rose is an eloquent and descriptive writer and has a way of making her characters real. I enjoyed this foray back into Ben and Gavin’s relationship, and I absolutely recommend it for all lovers of this series.
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach
June 5, 2018
Ben and Gavin have been through quite a bit in their relatively short time together. Now they’re newlyweds having married in St. Louis a week before and are on their honeymoon to Ben’s family’s - now theirs - cabin on an island in Puget Sound, an area I’m very familiar with and can attest to its beauty. As much as I hoped for them to have a relaxing vacation with a lot of intimate BDSM moments, I knew, not just from the description but also from the previous three books, that the author would give me a chilling mystery to keep me more than entertained.
It seems that Ben’s mother kept a journal for most of her life and when his parents died while Ben was in graduate school, they were boxed and sent back to the cabin. Ben had forgotten about it in the intervening years but once he finds them he takes some time to read through a few. What he discovers is that, in his opinion anyway, his parents were murdered instead of dying in a car accident. Everything revolves around events that occurred seventeen years prior, an art gallery owner, a cop on the take, Ben’s mother hiring a private investigator to look into the facts, and all witnesses to each death - not just his parents’ - having died coincidentally within a short time.
What struck me about this book was how different it is in some ways from the previous installments. Even though ‘Safeword’, book two in the series, dealt a lot with Ben’s emotional trauma and his newfound insecurity in giving Gavin what his sub needed, ‘Restraint’ looks more deeply into what happens when a man who is very much in control of himself, his emotions, his feelings, is thrust into a situation where he feels not in control and his reactions to it all. Ben has always been Gavin’s rock and Ben considers needing Gavin in the same way to be a failing of Ben as his Dom. It was quite interesting to watch this dynamic and see how it played out.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
It seems that Ben’s mother kept a journal for most of her life and when his parents died while Ben was in graduate school, they were boxed and sent back to the cabin. Ben had forgotten about it in the intervening years but once he finds them he takes some time to read through a few. What he discovers is that, in his opinion anyway, his parents were murdered instead of dying in a car accident. Everything revolves around events that occurred seventeen years prior, an art gallery owner, a cop on the take, Ben’s mother hiring a private investigator to look into the facts, and all witnesses to each death - not just his parents’ - having died coincidentally within a short time.
What struck me about this book was how different it is in some ways from the previous installments. Even though ‘Safeword’, book two in the series, dealt a lot with Ben’s emotional trauma and his newfound insecurity in giving Gavin what his sub needed, ‘Restraint’ looks more deeply into what happens when a man who is very much in control of himself, his emotions, his feelings, is thrust into a situation where he feels not in control and his reactions to it all. Ben has always been Gavin’s rock and Ben considers needing Gavin in the same way to be a failing of Ben as his Dom. It was quite interesting to watch this dynamic and see how it played out.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
July 1, 2018
Well, I enjoyed this book much more than book 3. I really didnt mind that Ben and Gavin's relationship took a bit of a back burner to the mystery. I really liked the mystery and the way they went about solving it.
June 19, 2018
Let us start out with the biggest question; is this a standalone? The answer is no. It is book four in AJ Rose's Power Exchange series and we are following Ben and Gavin throughout the four books. If you started here I feel you wouldn't appreciate their growth and how they got to where they are. Also, you would be confused in quite a few places.
That said, it is a terrific edition to this series. I have followed Ben and Gavin from the get go. I was there when they saw each other for the first time, and to see them in Restraint, on their honeymoon, knowing all they had been through was so awesome.
In Restraint, as you can tell, Ben and Gavin are married and celebrating their honeymoon. Of course it wouldn't be a Power Exchange book without two things, BDSM and a mystery. Restraint is milder on the BDSM than in other books but because of where Gavin and Ben are in their relationship and the seriousness of the story line it made perfect sense to me. It fits their dynamic and it's how it should be in my opinion.
This was very suspenseful, like my heart was pumping, it was exhilarating and nail biting. It wasn't as dark as the others, certainly not as dark as Consent, it really concentrated on the mystery of Ben's parents deaths. Hence the depth of the plot and how so much was at stake in this.
Leo was truly the shining star of this book no question there. While he took a little away from Gavin and Ben at times I wasn't sorry at all because it worked brilliantly. He added something to this story I wouldn't change for a second.
I want more of these guys, this series, and this amazing feeling I get when I complete a story in this series. If you haven't read the PE Series you must!
That said, it is a terrific edition to this series. I have followed Ben and Gavin from the get go. I was there when they saw each other for the first time, and to see them in Restraint, on their honeymoon, knowing all they had been through was so awesome.
In Restraint, as you can tell, Ben and Gavin are married and celebrating their honeymoon. Of course it wouldn't be a Power Exchange book without two things, BDSM and a mystery. Restraint is milder on the BDSM than in other books but because of where Gavin and Ben are in their relationship and the seriousness of the story line it made perfect sense to me. It fits their dynamic and it's how it should be in my opinion.
This was very suspenseful, like my heart was pumping, it was exhilarating and nail biting. It wasn't as dark as the others, certainly not as dark as Consent, it really concentrated on the mystery of Ben's parents deaths. Hence the depth of the plot and how so much was at stake in this.
Leo was truly the shining star of this book no question there. While he took a little away from Gavin and Ben at times I wasn't sorry at all because it worked brilliantly. He added something to this story I wouldn't change for a second.
I want more of these guys, this series, and this amazing feeling I get when I complete a story in this series. If you haven't read the PE Series you must!
May 5, 2024
This was cute! Ben and Gavin are great as ever, but the investigation was a bit boring and disappointing. While Consent was so grim and uncomfortable, at least it caught my attention and didn't let go.
Here, Gavin and Ben are spending their honeymoon in a family cabin where Ben used to go to with his parents. When they arrive, they discover Grace's - Ben's mom - journals and learn that Ben's parents' death was probably not an accident.
The whole investigation just felt slow and didn't really seem to have the high stakes this series got us used to. It wasn't terrible, just not great.
I LOVED Leo's character though. The snarky art thief was a fun addition and I want to read his book! Speaking of spin-off books, I love Sugar, the soft-spoken IT genius. Lowkey my brain paired them up because I just want to read more about these two interesting guys who have never interacted lol
I guess it's the end of the series, a bit underwhelming after the crazy ride the first three books took us on. Safeword was especially amazing, my favourite of the series. Still, I loved to follow the development of Gavin and Ben's relationship and their devotion to each other. Truly whipped husbands and perfect soulmates. Enjoyed the BDSM element as well!
Here, Gavin and Ben are spending their honeymoon in a family cabin where Ben used to go to with his parents. When they arrive, they discover Grace's - Ben's mom - journals and learn that Ben's parents' death was probably not an accident.
The whole investigation just felt slow and didn't really seem to have the high stakes this series got us used to. It wasn't terrible, just not great.
I LOVED Leo's character though. The snarky art thief was a fun addition and I want to read his book! Speaking of spin-off books, I love Sugar, the soft-spoken IT genius. Lowkey my brain paired them up because I just want to read more about these two interesting guys who have never interacted lol
I guess it's the end of the series, a bit underwhelming after the crazy ride the first three books took us on. Safeword was especially amazing, my favourite of the series. Still, I loved to follow the development of Gavin and Ben's relationship and their devotion to each other. Truly whipped husbands and perfect soulmates. Enjoyed the BDSM element as well!
August 24, 2018
The last one in the Power Exchange series which is kind of sad as I don't really want to say goodbye to Gavin and Ben. However I couldn't in all honesty give my normal 5 or 4 stars. This one seems a bit like an add on maybe because other people didn't want to say goodbye either. The last novel ended in a fitting way for the series but this one wasn't as exciting and didn't engage my emotions like the others . It was still Ben and Gavin , which can't be bad but really Rose should have stopped at three books in my opinion.
April 30, 2018
Gavin and Ben DeGrassi are back!
What a honeymoon!
So great to catch up, like with old friends.
What a honeymoon!
So great to catch up, like with old friends.
September 5, 2018
4/5
Ben and Gavin are back, and they are as hot as ever. However, this case didn't interest me as much the other books unfortuanately.
Ben and Gavin are back, and they are as hot as ever. However, this case didn't interest me as much the other books unfortuanately.
Read
May 1, 2020Paso al 50%.
Aburrido.
No le pueden pasar más cosas a estos dos!!!!!!?????
Aburrido.
No le pueden pasar más cosas a estos dos!!!!!!?????
February 25, 2020
Rather an easier read than the previous 3 books, although Ben is put through the emotional wringer when he and Gavin find out that Ben's parents were actually murdered.
It's more a crime mystery than the in-depth D/s relationship between the two guys, but that doesn't prevent it from being a superb piece of story telling.
Thankfully, a resolved ending for our guys, and certainly a HEA :)
It's more a crime mystery than the in-depth D/s relationship between the two guys, but that doesn't prevent it from being a superb piece of story telling.
Thankfully, a resolved ending for our guys, and certainly a HEA :)
October 5, 2018
It was nice to revisit these characters. Bit the entire book was a bit ho-hum. Really nice not to have trigger-potential rape scenes like platues the previous books but this one really didn't click for me.
May 13, 2018
Review to follow.
July 14, 2018
Review can be read at It's About The Book
4.5 stars
Restraint is the fourth book in the Power Exchange series. It can probably be read as a stand-alone without being confusing, but I would strongly recommend reading it in order with the previous books in the series.
Gavin DeGrassi, having retired as a cop for St Louis County PD, is now a university professor teaching criminal justice and investigation techniques. He might miss his former job, but he loves the opportunity to teach what he once used to do. His husband, Ben DeGrassi, means more to him than any job ever could, and the stresses of being a cop placed more strain on both himself and their relationship than it was worth. Retirement has also allowed Gavin the mental space to start further exploring the D/s side of their relationship with Ben. Gavin found the security and peace in submitting to Ben that he desperately needed, and they are both eager to continue that journey. As Gavin tells Ben, they’ve already learned the hard way that when things go bad, that’s when they need to remember who they are most of all, and Gavin is his best when he’s submitting to Ben as his Dom.
Ben and Gavin have been through a lot in the past few years, but they have come through their trials and tribulations and, now happily married and content with life, are looking forward to a peaceful honeymoon at Ben’s family cabin on Anderson Island. Whilst there, Ben comes across his mother’s journals. What he finds in there casts suspicions on whether the car accident that resulted in his parents deaths was actually an accident at all.
As they begin investigating the events of fourteen years ago, they discover a spider’s web of crimes and intrigue that needs to be unravelled to find the truth of what really happened. Gavin will do anything to help and protect Ben, even if it means teaming up with suspected thief, Leo, to get the answers they need.
This book’s focus was very much the mystery plot and, apart from one possible plot hole I questioned, I was drawn right into the story. The character of Leo surprised me by how invested I became in his story and where his future would end up. Despite him initially being portrayed as a bit of petulant teenager than a 27 year old at times, I ended up adoring him more than a little. I found him intriguing and could feel the vulnerability he was hiding beneath his sassiness.
I loved Ben and Gavin and I enjoyed the secondary focus of their relationship dynamics, including Ben learning to lean on Gavin when he was emotionally overwhelmed and how doing that fit into the D/s dynamics of their partnership. There wasn’t much emphasis on the BDSM elements, in as far as scenes in this book. In fact, only one of the sex scenes really involved BDSM play. Since it seemed to be heading towards one of my hard limits in reading BDSM play (it’s nothing that extreme as far as BDSM acts go, just one that I personally find unpalatable), I did skip that scene, but I have no doubt the writing quality was as good as the rest of the book.
I really like this series, and although Restraint is less intense than the previous books in some respects, it was every bit as good. I hope there is more to come from Ben and Gavin, and I have my fingers crossed that there may even be at least one spin-off book featuring one or two of the secondary characters.
4.5 stars
Restraint is the fourth book in the Power Exchange series. It can probably be read as a stand-alone without being confusing, but I would strongly recommend reading it in order with the previous books in the series.
Gavin DeGrassi, having retired as a cop for St Louis County PD, is now a university professor teaching criminal justice and investigation techniques. He might miss his former job, but he loves the opportunity to teach what he once used to do. His husband, Ben DeGrassi, means more to him than any job ever could, and the stresses of being a cop placed more strain on both himself and their relationship than it was worth. Retirement has also allowed Gavin the mental space to start further exploring the D/s side of their relationship with Ben. Gavin found the security and peace in submitting to Ben that he desperately needed, and they are both eager to continue that journey. As Gavin tells Ben, they’ve already learned the hard way that when things go bad, that’s when they need to remember who they are most of all, and Gavin is his best when he’s submitting to Ben as his Dom.
Ben and Gavin have been through a lot in the past few years, but they have come through their trials and tribulations and, now happily married and content with life, are looking forward to a peaceful honeymoon at Ben’s family cabin on Anderson Island. Whilst there, Ben comes across his mother’s journals. What he finds in there casts suspicions on whether the car accident that resulted in his parents deaths was actually an accident at all.
As they begin investigating the events of fourteen years ago, they discover a spider’s web of crimes and intrigue that needs to be unravelled to find the truth of what really happened. Gavin will do anything to help and protect Ben, even if it means teaming up with suspected thief, Leo, to get the answers they need.
This book’s focus was very much the mystery plot and, apart from one possible plot hole I questioned, I was drawn right into the story. The character of Leo surprised me by how invested I became in his story and where his future would end up. Despite him initially being portrayed as a bit of petulant teenager than a 27 year old at times, I ended up adoring him more than a little. I found him intriguing and could feel the vulnerability he was hiding beneath his sassiness.
I loved Ben and Gavin and I enjoyed the secondary focus of their relationship dynamics, including Ben learning to lean on Gavin when he was emotionally overwhelmed and how doing that fit into the D/s dynamics of their partnership. There wasn’t much emphasis on the BDSM elements, in as far as scenes in this book. In fact, only one of the sex scenes really involved BDSM play. Since it seemed to be heading towards one of my hard limits in reading BDSM play (it’s nothing that extreme as far as BDSM acts go, just one that I personally find unpalatable), I did skip that scene, but I have no doubt the writing quality was as good as the rest of the book.
I really like this series, and although Restraint is less intense than the previous books in some respects, it was every bit as good. I hope there is more to come from Ben and Gavin, and I have my fingers crossed that there may even be at least one spin-off book featuring one or two of the secondary characters.
June 3, 2025
I’m sorry but this is a terrible review because I’m super tired. I hope you get something out of it though.
I loved all the Pacific Northwest/Seattle stuff. I love this area so much and I could picture the cabin and the island so easily. I get a warm cozy feeling when I read about a place I adore. And the author did a pretty good job of it too.
A lot of this story was far-fetched but that didn’t stop my enjoyment of it. There was a lot going on. I’m not sure where to begin without delving into minutia. The mystery investigation was interesting as was the way they handled the…thing… I learned a lot about climbing, architectural registry, big pleasure boats, etc… Everything felt very well researched.
The hacking stuff was interesting and made sense up to a point. I think it was too easy and I do know but it still felt like it could be possible.
Estimations of time were way off like someone was found, taken into custody, jurisdictions evaluated, they were put on a plane and flown across the country in less than a day; another time something happening during dinner, a manhunt of the area went out, including divers, officers ferried in, a casualty worked on then flown out, then a couple of hours of working on the house and it’s still evening when they’ve gone.
One of my pet peeves in books is how they picture older people. Currently, people in their 50s are middle-aged. Saying that someone that age, “wasn’t grandmotherly though,” was just annoying. What does that even mean? I’m a proud grandmother in my 50s and I dress in a pseudo goth sort of style I’ve made my own over the decades with piercings, black clothes, wide wrist cuffs, green (for now) hair. too much jewelry, and only one little tattoo (because I’ve never been able to afford more). I don’t think I do or will ever look “grandmotherly.” My mom looks way more stylish and chic than I do and she’s 82. No one would ever call her grandmotherly.
I rarely like BDSM stories and I hated the BDSM of the first book of this series. But I felt like I needed the second half of that story anyway. I eventually read it and loved it and its sequels including this one. I think the BDSM is loving and feels real if a little too perfect. I like how Gavin’s still dealing with PTSD from book one which affects his scenes still.
I would read the next one if the series continued but I believe this is the last one.
I loved all the Pacific Northwest/Seattle stuff. I love this area so much and I could picture the cabin and the island so easily. I get a warm cozy feeling when I read about a place I adore. And the author did a pretty good job of it too.
A lot of this story was far-fetched but that didn’t stop my enjoyment of it. There was a lot going on. I’m not sure where to begin without delving into minutia. The mystery investigation was interesting as was the way they handled the…thing… I learned a lot about climbing, architectural registry, big pleasure boats, etc… Everything felt very well researched.
The hacking stuff was interesting and made sense up to a point. I think it was too easy and I do know but it still felt like it could be possible.
Estimations of time were way off like someone was found, taken into custody, jurisdictions evaluated, they were put on a plane and flown across the country in less than a day; another time something happening during dinner, a manhunt of the area went out, including divers, officers ferried in, a casualty worked on then flown out, then a couple of hours of working on the house and it’s still evening when they’ve gone.
One of my pet peeves in books is how they picture older people. Currently, people in their 50s are middle-aged. Saying that someone that age, “wasn’t grandmotherly though,” was just annoying. What does that even mean? I’m a proud grandmother in my 50s and I dress in a pseudo goth sort of style I’ve made my own over the decades with piercings, black clothes, wide wrist cuffs, green (for now) hair. too much jewelry, and only one little tattoo (because I’ve never been able to afford more). I don’t think I do or will ever look “grandmotherly.” My mom looks way more stylish and chic than I do and she’s 82. No one would ever call her grandmotherly.
I rarely like BDSM stories and I hated the BDSM of the first book of this series. But I felt like I needed the second half of that story anyway. I eventually read it and loved it and its sequels including this one. I think the BDSM is loving and feels real if a little too perfect. I like how Gavin’s still dealing with PTSD from book one which affects his scenes still.
I would read the next one if the series continued but I believe this is the last one.
April 30, 2018
Review by Gloria Lakritz Senior Review
5*****Stars
Book: Restraint
Series: Power Exchange Book #4
Author: AJ Rose
Publisher: AJ Rose
Rated: Mature
Genre: Mystery/Romance
Pages: 354
Released: April 27, 2018
Have been waiting excitedly for the next Power Exchange book and AJ Rose did not disappoint me. I must say that as a 76 year old, new to the M/M genre maybe for the lat 10 years, BDSM subject ws even more alien to me. This series gives me more understanding than many of the others I have read; truly. The series title itself, gave me food for thought as I read about this couple and see the trust and love that many people never get in any relationship.
This fourth story, our guys had married in book #3, each of them surviving horrific trials along the way. Gavin DeGrassi had been a detective, now retired and teaching police work at the local college, and Ben a doctor in large practice in town.Ben’s family very well to do, his fater and mother killed in auto accident when he was young.
They had owned a cabin, that his Uncle Oliver now had, and for a wedding gift offered Ben first dibs on buying it as he wanted to keep it in the family. When I heard Cabin, only can reach it by boat, I shivered as Ms. Rose has a ingenious imagination, and shuddered thinking how bad could this be!
So lets go back to the name of the series; Power Exchange. The first book I learned that Gavin was divorced. BDSM was something not in his vocabulary. Being closeted he was uncomfortable with many aspects. Ben has led him as his Dom to learn the love and trust that this type of relationship offers, the Dom does not have the power as you would suspect. We have seen Gain grow in this relationship thru these books, and we the reader , learns as well.
This story was excellent, Ben discovering that his parents were possibly murdered 15 years ago. The two set off, of course to find out who, what, where……But the most meaningful thing I felt was Gavin setting the tone, Gavin set the pace in their relationship, knowing what Ben needed in his anguish over his parents. It was not the Dom leading which made it even lovelier.
The side characters were great..Loved Leo and Uncle Oliver. Want to see if Leo gets what he yearns for, seeing Ben and Gavin. As always quality writing, wonderful story, and our guys are still in one piece. Kudos A.J. Rose
5*****Stars
Book: Restraint
Series: Power Exchange Book #4
Author: AJ Rose
Publisher: AJ Rose
Rated: Mature
Genre: Mystery/Romance
Pages: 354
Released: April 27, 2018
Have been waiting excitedly for the next Power Exchange book and AJ Rose did not disappoint me. I must say that as a 76 year old, new to the M/M genre maybe for the lat 10 years, BDSM subject ws even more alien to me. This series gives me more understanding than many of the others I have read; truly. The series title itself, gave me food for thought as I read about this couple and see the trust and love that many people never get in any relationship.
This fourth story, our guys had married in book #3, each of them surviving horrific trials along the way. Gavin DeGrassi had been a detective, now retired and teaching police work at the local college, and Ben a doctor in large practice in town.Ben’s family very well to do, his fater and mother killed in auto accident when he was young.
They had owned a cabin, that his Uncle Oliver now had, and for a wedding gift offered Ben first dibs on buying it as he wanted to keep it in the family. When I heard Cabin, only can reach it by boat, I shivered as Ms. Rose has a ingenious imagination, and shuddered thinking how bad could this be!
So lets go back to the name of the series; Power Exchange. The first book I learned that Gavin was divorced. BDSM was something not in his vocabulary. Being closeted he was uncomfortable with many aspects. Ben has led him as his Dom to learn the love and trust that this type of relationship offers, the Dom does not have the power as you would suspect. We have seen Gain grow in this relationship thru these books, and we the reader , learns as well.
This story was excellent, Ben discovering that his parents were possibly murdered 15 years ago. The two set off, of course to find out who, what, where……But the most meaningful thing I felt was Gavin setting the tone, Gavin set the pace in their relationship, knowing what Ben needed in his anguish over his parents. It was not the Dom leading which made it even lovelier.
The side characters were great..Loved Leo and Uncle Oliver. Want to see if Leo gets what he yearns for, seeing Ben and Gavin. As always quality writing, wonderful story, and our guys are still in one piece. Kudos A.J. Rose
May 15, 2018
Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews. A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
In my previous reviews I discussed the covers of the books and I want to start with that now. The cover fits with the rest of the books. It’s as good looking as the others. The bondage pictured isn’t complicated and doesn’t involve rope, but after reading the book I believe there is reasoning behind that.
The bond between Ben and Gavin forged from love and from their D/s relationship made them one of my favorite couples in m/m romance. I was beyond excited to hear that the author was continuing this series. I have to say after reading Restraint, that it was very different than the other books in the series.
This book takes place right after the epilogue in Consent. On their honeymoon Gavin and Ben discover that Ben’s parents deaths weren’t an accident and are connected to a much wider series of crimes and corruption. There is definitely sleuthing and crime solving and Gavin is partially happy to be using his skills again. If only it wasn’t Ben’s parents. The violent crimes associated with the first couple books are toned down, especially with the events taking place before Ben and Gavin even met. It made the story less intense to me, but I also think it was good that the honeymoon wasn’t turned into a nightmare. What does happen is bad enough.
The one thing that is very much the same in this book as it is in the others is the way the two men love and support each other; the way they use Dominance and submission to help get each other through difficult times. Cole and Myah did show up a little bit in this book. I loved meeting Ben’s uncle Oliver and his girlfriend Sasha. There is a character introduced who I would really like to see settle down into a relatively normal life and find love.
The book was a step away from the previous books in the series but I really loved reading about Ben and Gavin again. I don’t know if the author plans on writing any more books in this series but I would welcome them if she does. I definitely recommend Restraint as well as the whole Power Exchange series.
9/10 pots of Gold (90% Recommended) – Compares to 4.5/5 Stars
In my previous reviews I discussed the covers of the books and I want to start with that now. The cover fits with the rest of the books. It’s as good looking as the others. The bondage pictured isn’t complicated and doesn’t involve rope, but after reading the book I believe there is reasoning behind that.
The bond between Ben and Gavin forged from love and from their D/s relationship made them one of my favorite couples in m/m romance. I was beyond excited to hear that the author was continuing this series. I have to say after reading Restraint, that it was very different than the other books in the series.
This book takes place right after the epilogue in Consent. On their honeymoon Gavin and Ben discover that Ben’s parents deaths weren’t an accident and are connected to a much wider series of crimes and corruption. There is definitely sleuthing and crime solving and Gavin is partially happy to be using his skills again. If only it wasn’t Ben’s parents. The violent crimes associated with the first couple books are toned down, especially with the events taking place before Ben and Gavin even met. It made the story less intense to me, but I also think it was good that the honeymoon wasn’t turned into a nightmare. What does happen is bad enough.
The one thing that is very much the same in this book as it is in the others is the way the two men love and support each other; the way they use Dominance and submission to help get each other through difficult times. Cole and Myah did show up a little bit in this book. I loved meeting Ben’s uncle Oliver and his girlfriend Sasha. There is a character introduced who I would really like to see settle down into a relatively normal life and find love.
The book was a step away from the previous books in the series but I really loved reading about Ben and Gavin again. I don’t know if the author plans on writing any more books in this series but I would welcome them if she does. I definitely recommend Restraint as well as the whole Power Exchange series.
9/10 pots of Gold (90% Recommended) – Compares to 4.5/5 Stars
May 22, 2020
Blurb = (Scale 1-10)
7
My Genre Scale = (Scale 1-10)
7
Odds if not your genre = (Scale 1-10)
4
What stood out =
In a good way, the lack of abuse, torture, and death.
Mood Type / Appeal to those looking for = mystery solving with established relationship, light suspense, boundary pushing
Warnings =
Surprisingly none
Series Notes =
4th in series but very different feel from the other 3. Little violence but also not as intense thus a little less engaging No three some this time
Rating Notes =
The 3rd is still like a dark cloud over my emotions. It was just so hard and unrelenting. I spent the whole book waiting for the other shoe to drop. It never really did. While I liked Uncle Oliver, I would have liked more of Gavs family. I did find the premise as a little far fetched especially for a good ex cop and all the laws broken, but it did not take me out of the story.
Blurb rating purpose:
( I don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "?whatever?", I shouldn't give it 2 stars, JUST based on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.)
Review Factors:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. . I read at least 100+ books a year - at an average length of 220± pages; but the total number of books is usually much, much, higher. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2020) was a 3.72 average for 1390 books. Which considering, the more you read, the better you should be at picking out books you like, I feel is a accurate average.
7
My Genre Scale = (Scale 1-10)
7
Odds if not your genre = (Scale 1-10)
4
What stood out =
In a good way, the lack of abuse, torture, and death.
Mood Type / Appeal to those looking for = mystery solving with established relationship, light suspense, boundary pushing
Warnings =
Surprisingly none
Series Notes =
4th in series but very different feel from the other 3. Little violence but also not as intense thus a little less engaging No three some this time
Rating Notes =
The 3rd is still like a dark cloud over my emotions. It was just so hard and unrelenting. I spent the whole book waiting for the other shoe to drop. It never really did. While I liked Uncle Oliver, I would have liked more of Gavs family. I did find the premise as a little far fetched especially for a good ex cop and all the laws broken, but it did not take me out of the story.
Blurb rating purpose:
( I don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "?whatever?", I shouldn't give it 2 stars, JUST based on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.)
Review Factors:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. . I read at least 100+ books a year - at an average length of 220± pages; but the total number of books is usually much, much, higher. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2020) was a 3.72 average for 1390 books. Which considering, the more you read, the better you should be at picking out books you like, I feel is a accurate average.
February 6, 2022
3.5 stars
An MM BDSM romance police procedural series. Contrary to other reviewers I actually enjoyed the first half of the book more than the second half. The first half came close to the Ben and Gavin we were introduced to in Power Exchange and it was nice not to have the gratuitous drama and darkness of the other plots. The love, chemistry and sex were back. But then of course that couldn’t last.
I also disagree with reviewers that Gavin painted a target on Ben. It was absolutely the other way around. Ben kept digging and confronting despite all cover stories that Gavin spun so I lay the whole bloody mess under Ben’s feet.
So the plot midway took a turn into bizarre land where yet again it is life or death for Ben and Gavin with the added thrill of possible prison for both! I thought Gavin was painted into a corner in all the questionable decisions he took because he truly loves Ben that much. I thought Ben was a utterly stupid for poking the hornets nest over something that old and buried to then risk EVERYTHING!
I just don’t see how Ben and Gavin can lead a normal life after facing 2 crime/mafia rings in last 2 books. I don’t care what the FBI guy said about diminished capacity. Diminished is not equal to zero! They should be hiding and running for their lives for the rest of their lives .
And the epilogue ends in the middle of a thought! Aggravating!
I frankly don’t know how I feel about Leo, his bickering with Ben was annoying although I have a suspicion that maybe he is supposed to become .
Overall I just didn’t like the absurdity of the plot yet again. I just can’t buy the amount of trouble this couple can get themselves into. It is WAY over the top!!
I just read the series to see the relationship evolution more than anything else.
An MM BDSM romance police procedural series. Contrary to other reviewers I actually enjoyed the first half of the book more than the second half. The first half came close to the Ben and Gavin we were introduced to in Power Exchange and it was nice not to have the gratuitous drama and darkness of the other plots. The love, chemistry and sex were back. But then of course that couldn’t last.
I also disagree with reviewers that Gavin painted a target on Ben. It was absolutely the other way around. Ben kept digging and confronting despite all cover stories that Gavin spun so I lay the whole bloody mess under Ben’s feet.
So the plot midway took a turn into bizarre land where yet again it is life or death for Ben and Gavin with the added thrill of possible prison for both! I thought Gavin was painted into a corner in all the questionable decisions he took because he truly loves Ben that much. I thought Ben was a utterly stupid for poking the hornets nest over something that old and buried to then risk EVERYTHING!
I just don’t see how Ben and Gavin can lead a normal life after facing 2 crime/mafia rings in last 2 books. I don’t care what the FBI guy said about diminished capacity. Diminished is not equal to zero! They should be hiding and running for their lives for the rest of their lives .
And the epilogue ends in the middle of a thought! Aggravating!
I frankly don’t know how I feel about Leo, his bickering with Ben was annoying although I have a suspicion that maybe he is supposed to become .
Overall I just didn’t like the absurdity of the plot yet again. I just can’t buy the amount of trouble this couple can get themselves into. It is WAY over the top!!
I just read the series to see the relationship evolution more than anything else.
June 7, 2018
One thing I love about this series are the covers! Another good one for this book.
I expected to love this book but it fell flat for me. The mystery wasn’t compelling and Gavin and Ben did some questionable things to solve it.
The secondary characters (except for one) brought nothing to this story. Oliver, Sasha, Marjorie and Chet were totally forgettable.
Leo was an intriguing character. I hope there’s a book coming with his story.
This book was also BDSM lite. AJ Rose is a great writer of this genre and I’m disappointed we didn’t get some intense scenes. I would love for Ben to work that airport scene on Gavin at an uptight social function they attend.
One thing though. Can Gavin and Ben please stop telling everyone about their kink?! Maybe I’m the only reader bothered by this. LOL. It just seems like all their family and friends just HAVE to know. IMO no they don’t. I notice Cole and Myah always bring up BDSM to Gavin as a joke no matter what the topic of conversation is.
I do hope we get another Gavin and Ben mystery and maybe Gavin will bring his gun!
I expected to love this book but it fell flat for me. The mystery wasn’t compelling and Gavin and Ben did some questionable things to solve it.
The secondary characters (except for one) brought nothing to this story. Oliver, Sasha, Marjorie and Chet were totally forgettable.
Leo was an intriguing character. I hope there’s a book coming with his story.
This book was also BDSM lite. AJ Rose is a great writer of this genre and I’m disappointed we didn’t get some intense scenes. I would love for Ben to work that airport scene on Gavin at an uptight social function they attend.
One thing though. Can Gavin and Ben please stop telling everyone about their kink?! Maybe I’m the only reader bothered by this. LOL. It just seems like all their family and friends just HAVE to know. IMO no they don’t. I notice Cole and Myah always bring up BDSM to Gavin as a joke no matter what the topic of conversation is.
I do hope we get another Gavin and Ben mystery and maybe Gavin will bring his gun!
November 13, 2018
Gavin and Ben are married and on their honeymoon. They bought the summer home on an island off of Seattle that Ben's parents used to own. Ben begins reading his mother's journals and realizes that she and his dad may have been murdered. Gavin agrees to help him investigate. While it is all upsetting for Ben, Gavin is enjoying being back in a detective role. Soon Ben is under suspicion for art theft. Gavin develops a reckless plan to get information. It works and they end up partnering with a thief to get the evidence they need. There are some really great scenes with Gavin and Ben. While Gavin is the sub, he has to take control on a certain level because Ben is struggling. They really are such a great team. It also appears that they have solved the issue of Gavin's aversion to being fully restrained. I hope we will see more of this couple.
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