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Making It Better
“You still mess me up after all this time, Luc.”
“Not my problem.”
Court’s forceful brand of dominance pushes Lucan’s buttons like nothing else, but he can’t forget how badly Court hurt him in the past. Their romance six years ago was heady, intense, and sizzling—and left Lucan with deep emotional scars. When he runs into Court at a fetish party, the spark is still there. But so is the pain.
For Court, Lucan is the mindfuck he never got over. He still doesn't know why Lucan ended things, and when he sees Lucan in the flesh again, the desperate need to dominate comes rushing back. Court would do anything to have a second chance, but he won’t let Lucan mess with his head and break his heart again. Or so he tells himself.
“I’ll do it all right for you this time if you just teach me.”
When Lucan agrees to show Court how to be a good Dom, the two headstrong men toe a delicate line between restraint and uncontrolled passion. Will the same sick love that consumed their past destroy their future?
Making It Better is a standalone enemies to lovers, second chance, contemporary, BDSM romance with an HEA ending.
“Not my problem.”
Court’s forceful brand of dominance pushes Lucan’s buttons like nothing else, but he can’t forget how badly Court hurt him in the past. Their romance six years ago was heady, intense, and sizzling—and left Lucan with deep emotional scars. When he runs into Court at a fetish party, the spark is still there. But so is the pain.
For Court, Lucan is the mindfuck he never got over. He still doesn't know why Lucan ended things, and when he sees Lucan in the flesh again, the desperate need to dominate comes rushing back. Court would do anything to have a second chance, but he won’t let Lucan mess with his head and break his heart again. Or so he tells himself.
“I’ll do it all right for you this time if you just teach me.”
When Lucan agrees to show Court how to be a good Dom, the two headstrong men toe a delicate line between restraint and uncontrolled passion. Will the same sick love that consumed their past destroy their future?
Making It Better is a standalone enemies to lovers, second chance, contemporary, BDSM romance with an HEA ending.
ebook
Published January 21, 2019
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About the author
Lyss Em
4 books17 followersLyss Em is an author and editor. She left behind a career in IT and delved into indie publishing in 2015 and has since penned two novels and a novella in the romance genre, as well as a nonfiction book about tropes. As a freelance editor, Lyss specializes in romance and blogs about such.
When not writing or editing, Lyss enjoys listening to true crime podcasts and reading. Born and raised in the Midwest, Lyss now lives in South Jersey with her boyfriend.
When not writing or editing, Lyss enjoys listening to true crime podcasts and reading. Born and raised in the Midwest, Lyss now lives in South Jersey with her boyfriend.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
February 25, 2019
Lyss Em’s Making It Better is a powerful look at how two men reconnect after a messy breakup, and the work that’s involved to give their love a second chance.
There are some unique factors at play here, especially after all the damage both men sustained during their initial, toxic affair. Making It Better is seriously intense, but watching Court and Lucan work through it all, and come back stronger than ever, is a fantastic story!
For Lucan, recovering from the trauma he suffered at the hands of Court’s inexperience and callousness has been a journey. Therapy and education have helped him rebuild his life, and when Lucan plays now he sticks to a firm set of guidelines. Even though these rules aren’t getting him what he needs as a sub and a masochist, he’s doing what he can to move on.
Six years after the breakup Court’s back in town. Having realized that hookups outside the lifestyle haven’t come close to giving him what he found with Lucan, Court is looking to make a connection. When he ends up at the same play party as Lucan, it’s clear the chemistry between the two men is still just as passionate… and if they’re not careful, just as unhealthy.
Lyss Em goes deep into the hearts of these guys and keeps up the intensity throughout the whole novel. We see their thought processes, and get a firsthand view of how the wounds they inflicted affected each of them. With profound scenes, they work through the wreckage and try to forgive each other for what happened in the past.
Court and Lucan truly need each other, and finding a way to move forward is a work in progress. But if they can both commit to “Making It Better”, the rewards are worth it.
There are some unique factors at play here, especially after all the damage both men sustained during their initial, toxic affair. Making It Better is seriously intense, but watching Court and Lucan work through it all, and come back stronger than ever, is a fantastic story!
For Lucan, recovering from the trauma he suffered at the hands of Court’s inexperience and callousness has been a journey. Therapy and education have helped him rebuild his life, and when Lucan plays now he sticks to a firm set of guidelines. Even though these rules aren’t getting him what he needs as a sub and a masochist, he’s doing what he can to move on.
Six years after the breakup Court’s back in town. Having realized that hookups outside the lifestyle haven’t come close to giving him what he found with Lucan, Court is looking to make a connection. When he ends up at the same play party as Lucan, it’s clear the chemistry between the two men is still just as passionate… and if they’re not careful, just as unhealthy.
Lyss Em goes deep into the hearts of these guys and keeps up the intensity throughout the whole novel. We see their thought processes, and get a firsthand view of how the wounds they inflicted affected each of them. With profound scenes, they work through the wreckage and try to forgive each other for what happened in the past.
Court and Lucan truly need each other, and finding a way to move forward is a work in progress. But if they can both commit to “Making It Better”, the rewards are worth it.
January 21, 2019
It’s been six years since Lucan broke up with Court.
Court was his dominant and Lucan was the sub. They were much younger back then.
Lucan felt uncomfortable and most of the time they collided, but, the hurt Court could give Lucan was so deliciously right.
No one knew how to get through Lucan’s head like Court did and Lucan craved for Court’s hurtful dominant ways. Still, after six years he couldn’t find a Dom like Court.
And then, they are unexpectedly confronted with each other and it takes Court just a minute to bring Lucan to his knees and into subspace.
Only, six years is a long time and Court is still ignorant about why Lucan left him, and they never really talked.
What I witnessed was both very well done and irritating as hell. I never met a Dom and sub in this capacity... never! And I have read a lot of them!
The story was very original and captivating, absolutely not your daily romantic D/s read.
It gave me frustrations and a whiplash in all different angles where the intense emotions came from.... Court and Lucan were chaos together.... out of control...
I loved it. The way they interacted was superb and original.
It’s quite a dark read with a lot of anger, unfinished matters, heavy scenes, and miscommunication.
It was a steady written story, it had a chaotic plot and also the most flawed characters ever.
I was thrilled about the way they finally got to a place that set each other free, where they could honestly love and be together. Because... if not... after such a journey... I would throw my kindle out of the window.
Read and reviewed for Diverse Reader
Court was his dominant and Lucan was the sub. They were much younger back then.
Lucan felt uncomfortable and most of the time they collided, but, the hurt Court could give Lucan was so deliciously right.
No one knew how to get through Lucan’s head like Court did and Lucan craved for Court’s hurtful dominant ways. Still, after six years he couldn’t find a Dom like Court.
And then, they are unexpectedly confronted with each other and it takes Court just a minute to bring Lucan to his knees and into subspace.
Only, six years is a long time and Court is still ignorant about why Lucan left him, and they never really talked.
What I witnessed was both very well done and irritating as hell. I never met a Dom and sub in this capacity... never! And I have read a lot of them!
The story was very original and captivating, absolutely not your daily romantic D/s read.
It gave me frustrations and a whiplash in all different angles where the intense emotions came from.... Court and Lucan were chaos together.... out of control...
I loved it. The way they interacted was superb and original.
It’s quite a dark read with a lot of anger, unfinished matters, heavy scenes, and miscommunication.
It was a steady written story, it had a chaotic plot and also the most flawed characters ever.
I was thrilled about the way they finally got to a place that set each other free, where they could honestly love and be together. Because... if not... after such a journey... I would throw my kindle out of the window.
Read and reviewed for Diverse Reader
November 12, 2019
I just got really tired of all the fighting. Court got angry so fast and would disappear for weeks. Lucan was such pushy brat that I didn’t like him for most of the book. This book also has way too much of the dreaded inner monologue. Cutting and blood would also be a hard limit for me. I cringed just reading about them doing it. So, why did I give it three stars? When they weren’t fighting the sex was very hot.
March 4, 2021
It's been three days since I read this, and until I just re-read the synopsis, I couldn't remember what the book was about. At all. Don't know if that says more about me or the book.
January 22, 2019
This is something for the more experienced BDSM lovers out there. Things are a bit heavier and the play a bit darker/kinkier than the every day BDSM story. However, if that sounds interesting, be sure to check this one out.
Basically, there are two guys, who had a previous BDSM relationship that didn’t end on the best of terms. Fast forward six years, and they meet up again where they find that the amazing chemistry they shared is still going strong. But the issues that sent Lucan running still exist – that being his inexperience as a Dom. He has the basics down, but apparently there are some areas where he was lacking. In his defense, none of his shortcomings were ever communicated, which was a major factor throughout this story. The lack of communication was rampant. Also in Court’s defense, Lucan sends some mixed signals. He likes his play rough and on the edgier side, liked pain and humiliation, but isn’t quite on board with wanting those things. But when Court gives him exactly what he needs/wants, it’s all good, until it isn’t. Again, communication breakdown.
There are other things working against them as well. Lucan’s friends all think their relationship is abusive and Court’s dishing out way more than Lucan wants or can handle. But these guys work at it, work on the communication, and it pays off in the end. Some of the scenes here were a little intense, but they were oozing hotness at the same time. I was really pulling for these guys to get on the same page and was a bit surprised at how much I enjoyed watching them get there. Again, I would not recommend this for BDSM newbies or those who like things on the fluffier side, but everyone else, you should not miss this one.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
April 22, 2019
2 Stars
A toxic relationship disguised as BDSM.
Lucan broke up with Court six years ago for not properly taking care of him even though they were both new to BDSM and he never told Court he needed more aftercare. When they get back together, he holds this over Court's head and constantly reminds him of it, telling him what a shitty Dom he was. Additionally, Court still resents Lucan for abruptly dumping him with no explanation. We're off to a great start, right?
Lucan devises a plan to teach Court how to be a good Dom and do all the right things by topping from the bottom and being a bratty, disrespectful sub. He is always telling Court no, don't do this, don't do that, I won't let you do this, I demand that you do this, etc. He disregards Court's feelings and wishes, instead focusing on his own. Lucan can't get over his fears from the last time they dated and it culminates into an epic cluster fuck.
There is a lot of push/pull, stupid arguments, and hard-headed men unable to communicate. The BDSM is definitely edgeplay and on the more intense side. I do not think this story was a good representation of BDSM at all, toxic relationship aside, as it was unrealistic and also repetitive. A submissive does not go into subspace with one touch or during every single scene. Some of the stuff they did was not safe or sane, although it was portrayed as being okay because Lucan was into being abused, used, and hurt. There is some OM drama in the sense that Lucan gets off on making Court jealous and the resulting possessiveness that follows. I found it difficult to finish the book and wouldn't read it again.
A toxic relationship disguised as BDSM.
Lucan broke up with Court six years ago for not properly taking care of him even though they were both new to BDSM and he never told Court he needed more aftercare. When they get back together, he holds this over Court's head and constantly reminds him of it, telling him what a shitty Dom he was. Additionally, Court still resents Lucan for abruptly dumping him with no explanation. We're off to a great start, right?
Lucan devises a plan to teach Court how to be a good Dom and do all the right things by topping from the bottom and being a bratty, disrespectful sub. He is always telling Court no, don't do this, don't do that, I won't let you do this, I demand that you do this, etc. He disregards Court's feelings and wishes, instead focusing on his own. Lucan can't get over his fears from the last time they dated and it culminates into an epic cluster fuck.
There is a lot of push/pull, stupid arguments, and hard-headed men unable to communicate. The BDSM is definitely edgeplay and on the more intense side. I do not think this story was a good representation of BDSM at all, toxic relationship aside, as it was unrealistic and also repetitive. A submissive does not go into subspace with one touch or during every single scene. Some of the stuff they did was not safe or sane, although it was portrayed as being okay because Lucan was into being abused, used, and hurt. There is some OM drama in the sense that Lucan gets off on making Court jealous and the resulting possessiveness that follows. I found it difficult to finish the book and wouldn't read it again.
January 19, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟 4 stars
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 5 (features hot but hardcore BDSM scenes, some violence, cutting and humiliation, not or the faint-hearted)
Intense and detailed gay BDSM romance and devotion story.
I’ll be very honest here and say I had read the Fifty Shades books and was interested in the BDSM scene, but the reality and nature of true BDSM is very different from these books and not for the faint-hearted. I’m not sure it’s for me, as parts were a little too intense, but objectively this book is great for any true BDSM fan.
This book follows Lucan and Court as they rekindle their sexual relationship after 8 years apart. Their relationship is now based in the BDSM scene and over the 8 years apart they have learnt so much more about the kink and how to better take care of each other. After 8 years they realise they still love each other and can give each other what they crave. However, their initial relationship was unhealthy and they still hold onto resentment and various fears and insecurities which must be addressed. The story follows Lucan and Court as they navigate their way back to each other, address their concerns and fears and find the love and devotion they’ve been looking for.
This book is heavy on BDSM sex scenes and does feature some hardcore and possibly dangerous BDSM related scenes that people could find confronting. After the initial confrontation/introduction to high-level BDSM play, I found the underlying love story intense, yet wonderful. The changes in these characters over the course of the book is remarkable and shows that when people communicate properly and acknowledge their feelings they can thrive together! I love characters that communicate!!! This is a hard road to forever for Lucan and Court but once they get there, it’s wonderful!
A great and very detailed read for the hardcore BDSM fan!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚!
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 5 (features hot but hardcore BDSM scenes, some violence, cutting and humiliation, not or the faint-hearted)
Intense and detailed gay BDSM romance and devotion story.
I’ll be very honest here and say I had read the Fifty Shades books and was interested in the BDSM scene, but the reality and nature of true BDSM is very different from these books and not for the faint-hearted. I’m not sure it’s for me, as parts were a little too intense, but objectively this book is great for any true BDSM fan.
This book follows Lucan and Court as they rekindle their sexual relationship after 8 years apart. Their relationship is now based in the BDSM scene and over the 8 years apart they have learnt so much more about the kink and how to better take care of each other. After 8 years they realise they still love each other and can give each other what they crave. However, their initial relationship was unhealthy and they still hold onto resentment and various fears and insecurities which must be addressed. The story follows Lucan and Court as they navigate their way back to each other, address their concerns and fears and find the love and devotion they’ve been looking for.
This book is heavy on BDSM sex scenes and does feature some hardcore and possibly dangerous BDSM related scenes that people could find confronting. After the initial confrontation/introduction to high-level BDSM play, I found the underlying love story intense, yet wonderful. The changes in these characters over the course of the book is remarkable and shows that when people communicate properly and acknowledge their feelings they can thrive together! I love characters that communicate!!! This is a hard road to forever for Lucan and Court but once they get there, it’s wonderful!
A great and very detailed read for the hardcore BDSM fan!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚!
January 21, 2019
This book left me with a lot of confusing emotions. To start, the story is well written; it flows well and has been edited. The characters are fairly well developed, with brief glimpses of secondary characters.
This is a second chance BDSM romance, focusing not only on the D/s relationship, but the sadist and masochistic lifestyle in particular. I had a hard time connecting with the MCs in this story. Lucen was easier for me to adjust to than Court.
The relationship started when the two were in college, basically playing around with rough sex and not understanding what the consequences could be from a relationship with that dynamic.
What made me really uncomfortable was the way they got back together and Lucen's belief that he could handle the situation on his own. The characters discuss Safe, Sane, and Consensual; but there are many times throughout the book that I felt this boundary was being pushed, if not crossed, but the characters did not seem to draw the same conclusions. This could just be my own personal hang-up, but there was too much anger and rage involved in some of the scenes for me to view it as the romance and D/s relationship it seemed to be trying to portray.
Overall, the book was not bad. It just wasn't my cup of tea. I am totally in favor of reading BDSM romance and/or lifestyle books, and I have no problem with the giving and receiving of pain. These were not my issues with this book. It was a general uncomfortable feeling I had throughout most of the story.
* I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. *
This is a second chance BDSM romance, focusing not only on the D/s relationship, but the sadist and masochistic lifestyle in particular. I had a hard time connecting with the MCs in this story. Lucen was easier for me to adjust to than Court.
The relationship started when the two were in college, basically playing around with rough sex and not understanding what the consequences could be from a relationship with that dynamic.
What made me really uncomfortable was the way they got back together and Lucen's belief that he could handle the situation on his own. The characters discuss Safe, Sane, and Consensual; but there are many times throughout the book that I felt this boundary was being pushed, if not crossed, but the characters did not seem to draw the same conclusions. This could just be my own personal hang-up, but there was too much anger and rage involved in some of the scenes for me to view it as the romance and D/s relationship it seemed to be trying to portray.
Overall, the book was not bad. It just wasn't my cup of tea. I am totally in favor of reading BDSM romance and/or lifestyle books, and I have no problem with the giving and receiving of pain. These were not my issues with this book. It was a general uncomfortable feeling I had throughout most of the story.
* I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. *
January 24, 2019
A kiss with a fist is better than none.
Court and Lucan broke up in college over their mutual inability to communicate, but they haven't had a fulfilling relationship since.
Lucan can't hit full subspace without becoming emotionally involved, and he's never found a DOM who hits the level of masochism he needs like Court. But the never negotiated or provided each other with proper aftercare.
When they meet at a kink party, they have a second chance, but if they can't learn to communicate, they'll fall apart again.
BDSM, knife play, bloodplay, exhibitionism, spend play, bondage tape, spankings, whartonburg wheel, flogging, belting, light kicking, breathplay choking, humiliation. SSC. Negotiation. Soft and hard limits listed. RYG safe words. Aftercare discussion. Poor decision control by sub discussed. Poor past ettiquet. Side characters: Brief mention of DDLG, knife held near female genitalia during club scene, f/f club scene. Some things might not be listed, apologies for anything I may have forgotten.
Court and Lucan broke up in college over their mutual inability to communicate, but they haven't had a fulfilling relationship since.
Lucan can't hit full subspace without becoming emotionally involved, and he's never found a DOM who hits the level of masochism he needs like Court. But the never negotiated or provided each other with proper aftercare.
When they meet at a kink party, they have a second chance, but if they can't learn to communicate, they'll fall apart again.
BDSM, knife play, bloodplay, exhibitionism, spend play, bondage tape, spankings, whartonburg wheel, flogging, belting, light kicking, breathplay choking, humiliation. SSC. Negotiation. Soft and hard limits listed. RYG safe words. Aftercare discussion. Poor decision control by sub discussed. Poor past ettiquet. Side characters: Brief mention of DDLG, knife held near female genitalia during club scene, f/f club scene. Some things might not be listed, apologies for anything I may have forgotten.
January 12, 2019
My first thought starting this book was that Lucan and Court just don’t listen to each other. This is either going to be great or repetitive. Well I thought it was great. It’s not the kind of second chance story where they meet again and all their previous issues disappear. No, both Lucan and Court have to work at making it right. Lucan confronts his insecurities and comes to terms with the nature of his kink. Court has to understand where things went wrong the first time they were together. The journey they go on and the trust they build makes a great story. not to forget the kinks. The BDSM is very well handled and shows a good view of safe sane and consensual. There is a level of violence within some of the play and blood play which may be a trigger for some.
I was given an author review copy
I was given an author review copy
December 21, 2019
A well-written 4* book but I found the character of Lucan whiny & hard to feel for; I started the book feeling for Lucan and disliking Court and finished the novel feeling for Court and disliking Lucan. I wasn't even convinced he really deserved a second chance with Court! That, in itself, is proof of character development. Sex scenes are well-done even though they'll be too harsh for some readers.
March 20, 2021
Strong beginning. Dumpster fire of an ending. Just. Rushed. And, drama for drama and communication and characterisation fails.
January 22, 2019
Lucan and Court had an intense relationship built on dominance and submission when they were in their early twenties. Neither knew the rules or protocols of BDSM, and that ignorance caused mistakes on both parts. Lucan ended things without explaining why and cut all ties with Court. Both were damaged emotionally and unable to find something with anyone else that came close to what they had with each other. This book began six years later, when the former lovers met up again at a BDSM play party. Despite the grudges each still held, the attraction and extreme desires were still there.
I have to say, I was worried about these guys for a big part of the book. Even with the knowledge regarding safe, sane, and consensual behavior Lucan had gained and began to share with Court, these two were a mess. There was tremendous push and pull over just about everything with them. But, hot damn, when they came together there were fireworks!
I really liked both men, and I wanted them to get things right. I felt nervous when they had edgier scenes, because I worried about how both would react if they went too far. I often thought one or the other was being immature, and I cringed at the things they said to each other at times, but I never once doubted their feelings for each other.
There was blood play and breath play here, which might be a hard limit for some readers. These two men liked extremes. There was also a lot of love. I liked Lucan and Court, sometimes against my will. This was an intense, engrossing, difficult romance, and I think it was pretty damn good.
I have to say, I was worried about these guys for a big part of the book. Even with the knowledge regarding safe, sane, and consensual behavior Lucan had gained and began to share with Court, these two were a mess. There was tremendous push and pull over just about everything with them. But, hot damn, when they came together there were fireworks!
I really liked both men, and I wanted them to get things right. I felt nervous when they had edgier scenes, because I worried about how both would react if they went too far. I often thought one or the other was being immature, and I cringed at the things they said to each other at times, but I never once doubted their feelings for each other.
There was blood play and breath play here, which might be a hard limit for some readers. These two men liked extremes. There was also a lot of love. I liked Lucan and Court, sometimes against my will. This was an intense, engrossing, difficult romance, and I think it was pretty damn good.
February 3, 2019
Being new to BDSM writing, I didn't know what to expect of this book. I was pleasantly surprised by how well-developed the characters' motivations for living in the moment turned out to be as the narrative progressed. I was taken aback by the extent to which the two leads seemed to fail to hear each other on a consistent basis, and was also intrigued by the extent to which safety around the dishing out of pain was discussed as the plot went on. I found it initially difficult to connect to either main character, but was just hooked enough to want to know where the two leads ended up. The intensity of the emotions is certainly turned up to full, which adds to the narrative, even as I was exasperated by the decisions the two characters made. On reflection, I understood the leads' decision-making process better in retrospect rather than in the moment. I was also very amused that texting seemed to be the chosen mode of being vulnerable, since I hadn't thought this was an organic choice at the start of the book. I found the secondary characters to be somewhat underwritten. I also found myself wishing I knew more about the backgrounds of Court and Lucan beyond their grief and anxiety about their first go at a relationship - it would have helped me imagine their motivations in a more rounded way.
*I am providing a voluntary review in exchange for an advance copy received from the author.
*I am providing a voluntary review in exchange for an advance copy received from the author.
January 9, 2019
I love when a book frustrates me so much that I put it down and then immediately pick it up to continue reading. This is a great second chance romance with two guys who were always good for each other if they could only open up and communicate.
Argh, both Lucan and Court know what they want and I was constantly banging my head with their antics. And whoa, there is some blood play, so that could be a trigger for some. However, do not make that the reason to not read this. Told from primarily Lucan's POV, I get it and it was not serial killer crazy - more like the level of getting a tattoo. So I am okay with it and it actually enhanced the story by reminding us that BDSM can be dangerous. I have to say, the book is good and has the typical misunderstandings you would expect in a second chance romance. But I was not expecting such a thoughtful view of the lifestyle and the struggle to find a place in it.This one is not to be missed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Argh, both Lucan and Court know what they want and I was constantly banging my head with their antics. And whoa, there is some blood play, so that could be a trigger for some. However, do not make that the reason to not read this. Told from primarily Lucan's POV, I get it and it was not serial killer crazy - more like the level of getting a tattoo. So I am okay with it and it actually enhanced the story by reminding us that BDSM can be dangerous. I have to say, the book is good and has the typical misunderstandings you would expect in a second chance romance. But I was not expecting such a thoughtful view of the lifestyle and the struggle to find a place in it.This one is not to be missed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2019
Gritty and intense second chance romance. i found this story compelling, engaging and beautiful. These MC's were involved in a previous BDSM relationship that had a whole lot of love and even more misunderstandings. Two young and inexperience men lost the relationship and carried lots of emotional hurt for years. Now, six years later they have a chance to renew their connection and resolve those misunderstandings.
Court and Lucan still love each other and with patience, good friends and lots of communication they learn how to create a D's relationship that is healthy and meets their needs. Their journey is not easy and it is emotional, however their need and love for each other is beautiful.
This is a really heartfelt story and emotional story. This has some intense kink activities and it is important to remember safe, sane and consensual. Everything in this story followed that guideline.
Court and Lucan still love each other and with patience, good friends and lots of communication they learn how to create a D's relationship that is healthy and meets their needs. Their journey is not easy and it is emotional, however their need and love for each other is beautiful.
This is a really heartfelt story and emotional story. This has some intense kink activities and it is important to remember safe, sane and consensual. Everything in this story followed that guideline.
January 22, 2019
This is the story of how you should never start any kinky relationship without previously investigating the do’s and don’t’s, without discussing limits, expectations and desires.
There are several scenes that may be disturbing for some readers, because Court and Lucan are very interdependent and the lack of communication- either because they did not know how to express their feelings or because they were unable to listen to the other - put at risk their mental health and borders abuse. It is a sadomasochistic relationship but fortunately they both realise that what they had in college was not healthy and that they had to do things differently, better if they wanted a chance at happiness, at a normal lighter relationship with a side of kink.
The writing is well done, conveying the confusion, the struggle of Court and Lucan. The story is told from both characters’ POV though a few rimes it wasn’t immediately clear whose POV I was reading.
There are several scenes that may be disturbing for some readers, because Court and Lucan are very interdependent and the lack of communication- either because they did not know how to express their feelings or because they were unable to listen to the other - put at risk their mental health and borders abuse. It is a sadomasochistic relationship but fortunately they both realise that what they had in college was not healthy and that they had to do things differently, better if they wanted a chance at happiness, at a normal lighter relationship with a side of kink.
The writing is well done, conveying the confusion, the struggle of Court and Lucan. The story is told from both characters’ POV though a few rimes it wasn’t immediately clear whose POV I was reading.
January 27, 2019
I really enjoyed this book but there were times when I was so worried. Lucan and Court had been in a bdsm relationship but things didn't go as planned. Six years later and they still want each other but is this the wise decision?
Lucan had thought that Court was too inexperienced and so did not give him what he wanted. We could say they same thing about Court, I should think. When they get back together they are still inexperienced in a way and they have a very bumpy road until they get to their destination.
I was worried at the start of the scene with the knives. I was really concerned that something was going to go seriously wrong as I don't think that either was in the correct headspace to go through with the scene.
I was, in fact, concerned in quite a few places in this book and I really doubted that they would be good together. You will have to read the book to find out more.
The story is good and so is the writing. Definitely recommended.
Lucan had thought that Court was too inexperienced and so did not give him what he wanted. We could say they same thing about Court, I should think. When they get back together they are still inexperienced in a way and they have a very bumpy road until they get to their destination.
I was worried at the start of the scene with the knives. I was really concerned that something was going to go seriously wrong as I don't think that either was in the correct headspace to go through with the scene.
I was, in fact, concerned in quite a few places in this book and I really doubted that they would be good together. You will have to read the book to find out more.
The story is good and so is the writing. Definitely recommended.
January 19, 2019
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. Six years may have past to when Lucan and Court meet again at a bdsm party, it feels just like yesterday.
Court couldn't understand why Lucan had run after a bitter text,but he had.
Lucan couldn't understand how court could be so blind. If court could just get Lucan back and they both opened up with communication, they may just be able to fly high together, or will Lucan run again with out them talking of the important things. Can court learn what a submissive really needs in time to keep Lucan at his side. This book was a truly great read. Reader beware there is bsdm scenes that involves knife play. All consensual adult moment's.
Court couldn't understand why Lucan had run after a bitter text,but he had.
Lucan couldn't understand how court could be so blind. If court could just get Lucan back and they both opened up with communication, they may just be able to fly high together, or will Lucan run again with out them talking of the important things. Can court learn what a submissive really needs in time to keep Lucan at his side. This book was a truly great read. Reader beware there is bsdm scenes that involves knife play. All consensual adult moment's.
January 22, 2019
When I start reading a book - no matter the genre - I only ever hope for one thing. Intensity. Making It Better could only have delivered more of that had it been longer. It was the perfect length. Court and Lucan ooze intensity. Their love feels tangible - even when they are driving one another demented - which makes it even more compelling. I believed in them. When reading BDSM books I've oft felt unconvinced by the depth of the Dom's emotions. I don't believe they feel the intensity of love I crave and suspect that any sub who fitted their requirements would suffice, after a few weeks umbrage about being dumped. Not here, not for one scorching second. The last time I felt so certain of a Dom's undying devotion was while reading Joseph Lance Tonlet. I can offer Court no finer compliment than that. I loved it.
April 9, 2020
I'm all for the dark and gritty, bratty subs and possessive Doms. And in the play between Court and Lucan there isn't much safe or sane.
With past hurt simmering just under the surface and being pulled up in vulnerable moments it's a recipe for disaster. Which their relationship are for most of the book, they weren't good for each other from the start.
With so much unresolved issues I just wanted Lucan to do the right thing and have Court train with another Dom. And bring him to therapy.
Though the thing I do enjoy is when couples are so madly in love that they would ruin who came between, and these are the definition of that.
So it's not a book you read for the BDSM it's for Court and Lucan crashing together in lust with pain, blood and possession.
With past hurt simmering just under the surface and being pulled up in vulnerable moments it's a recipe for disaster. Which their relationship are for most of the book, they weren't good for each other from the start.
With so much unresolved issues I just wanted Lucan to do the right thing and have Court train with another Dom. And bring him to therapy.
Though the thing I do enjoy is when couples are so madly in love that they would ruin who came between, and these are the definition of that.
So it's not a book you read for the BDSM it's for Court and Lucan crashing together in lust with pain, blood and possession.
July 10, 2024
Draws in Interest, but Cringe
The start drew in my interest and the concept of the story is a good idea but could be executed better. I don’t think Lucan was ready to go back into doing scenes and this unintentionally hurt Dom, his scene partner but not romantic one. I wish Lucan said yellow instead of red and resisting talking things through with Dom to hit subspace. I was interested to know about the specific scene that left the trauma but the relationship between Court and Lucan was too cringy for me to make it that far. If you are into dark this is for you. If you are looking for a story with a healthy BDSM relationship this story is very slow at getting to that point. It drew me in but wasn’t for me.
The start drew in my interest and the concept of the story is a good idea but could be executed better. I don’t think Lucan was ready to go back into doing scenes and this unintentionally hurt Dom, his scene partner but not romantic one. I wish Lucan said yellow instead of red and resisting talking things through with Dom to hit subspace. I was interested to know about the specific scene that left the trauma but the relationship between Court and Lucan was too cringy for me to make it that far. If you are into dark this is for you. If you are looking for a story with a healthy BDSM relationship this story is very slow at getting to that point. It drew me in but wasn’t for me.
December 21, 2018
Making It better is a second chance romance with a kink by Lyss Em. Lucan and Court are sometimes infuriating... they love each other but have so much to work out... it's sad that they didn't communicate enough in the past and had so much pain because they didn't research or communicate needs. They could be beautiful together and some scenes were amazing. I was engrossed in the story the whole time and wanted a HEA. I felt the story was well written, entertaining and satisfying.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
January 20, 2019
I found this book to be interesting and well-written but it's a little too intense for me. The lack of communication between Lucan and Court caused their first break-up and they didn't really learn anything from that when they meet again. I wish they had more of a connection outside of their scenes as well and both of them seem immature for their ages and experiences. Some of their scenes are dangerous and Court lets his emotions get the best of him which seems contrary to how a Dom should be. I like how they learn to read each other better and start talking more as the story progresses and I think the ending is good.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
January 22, 2019
This story is an intense reminder that relationship building is as much between your ears as it is in the things we do with our limbs. The protagonists are a very connected pair who want to be together. But they have history, that is not all good. They spend this story working on trying to move past the hurts and lack of communication to a place where together is better than having to leave being a them alone because it is not in their best interests. A well written, intense tale.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2019
This is an emotional ride of two people who meet in college an engage in some rough sex. That mess with the will been of one them, so much that he leaves the relationship. They meet again six years later at a BDSM party where they try to get back together. In long run they both have to work through last hurts, trust issues, communication and how to be a dom. This book is really well written and good though out characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2018
I read this on Patreon while it was in draft form, I believe it’s being edited now so I will change my review once the fully edited and released version is out! However from the draft I’ve read, it’s a great book with infuriating characters and a beautiful scenes. The characters are so dynamic feel alive and right next to you when you read, or as if you’ve known them in real life.
Can’t wait to see how it’s edited and perfected.
Can’t wait to see how it’s edited and perfected.
November 19, 2019
Love the power exchange
I found this author, Lyss EM while searching through Amazon and I am so glad that I did. I love Power exchange stories and D/s, and this is a fantastic one. This story follows safe, sane and consentuaI and although I personally was not into the same knife kink, BDSM is different for everyone. I really loved the relationship between Lucan and Court. I am excited to read more from this author!
I found this author, Lyss EM while searching through Amazon and I am so glad that I did. I love Power exchange stories and D/s, and this is a fantastic one. This story follows safe, sane and consentuaI and although I personally was not into the same knife kink, BDSM is different for everyone. I really loved the relationship between Lucan and Court. I am excited to read more from this author!
January 13, 2019
This was different in that the submissive is teaching his dominant how to be a caring and good dominant. It was an interesting read. This definitely deals with being open and learning to communicate so things don't get totally messed up. I enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 12, 2020
He had been hurt by them in the past and when he bumps into them at a party. Will he allow them back in his life? Will they finally find out what they did for him to leave last time? See if this time will be better
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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