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Control Freak
Total control. I need it in every aspect of my life. Some would say that makes me an asshole. A freak. But as long as everything’s exactly how I want it, I’m completely flexible.
I’m kidding.
Okay, I’m not kidding.
Lacey needs someone in her life who’s bigger and scarier than her demons, and she wants that man to be me. Her boss. The Viking in a suit.I hope she understands what she’s getting into. This daddy isn’t going to pat her on the head and tell her she’s a good girl for nothing. Especially not when she’s spinning out of control.
Author's note: this book includes depictions of eating disorder recovery.
I’m kidding.
Okay, I’m not kidding.
Lacey needs someone in her life who’s bigger and scarier than her demons, and she wants that man to be me. Her boss. The Viking in a suit.I hope she understands what she’s getting into. This daddy isn’t going to pat her on the head and tell her she’s a good girl for nothing. Especially not when she’s spinning out of control.
Author's note: this book includes depictions of eating disorder recovery.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2019
851 people are currently reading
5056 people want to read
About the author
Brianna Hale
26 books1,573 followersThere's nothing Brianna Hale likes more than a large, stern alpha male with a super-protective and caring streak, and when she's not writing about them she can usually be found with a book, a cocktail, planning her next trip to a beautiful location or attending the theatre. She believes that pink and empowerment aren’t mutually exclusive, and everyday adventures are possible. Brianna lives in London.
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June 27, 2019
DAAAYMN! COVERGASM!
Stand-alone.
LIVE! | AMZ US | AMZ UK |
Blurb:
Total control. I need it in every aspect of my life. Some would say that makes me an asshole. A freak. But as long as everything’s exactly how I want it, I’m completely flexible.
I’m kidding.
Okay, I’m not kidding.
Lacey needs someone in her life who’s bigger and scarier than her demons, and she wants that man to be me. Her boss. The Viking in a suit.
I hope she understands what she’s getting into. This daddy isn’t going to pat her on the head and tell her she’s a good girl for nothing. Especially not when she’s spinning out of control.
August 26, 2021
5 Bonsai Girl Stars ⭐️
Every day is a battle for Lacey Petrou. Enjoying the simplest things in life is a struggle, the very things that so many take for granted. Little things like eating and drinking has become emotionally and physically crippling. Every day an effort not to relapse.
“She’s always with me, spitting insults and cruelty and telling me I’m unlovable, fat and greedy.”
Museum Director Stian Blomqvist slash Swedish ‘Viking’ finds himself without an assistant. Known as being controlling and difficult to work with, it's by chance that Lacey finds herself as his new assistant.
Stian is a disciplined man, with enough kindness and patience to offer a form of therapy that could assist Lacey with healing. A relationship formed over mutual respect, trust, control and ultimately submission; it is the perfect combination.
“She trusted me. I like to be wanted, and I fucking love to be needed.”
It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Brianna Hale’s works. Where she is the queen of daddy kink romances that captures your heart, this time around ‘Contol Freak’ will appeal to a broader mass of readers.
YES, our hero thrives on being called daddy but its irrelevant. This story was the right amount of character building and sexual heat to be perfect.
“I’m rough with your body sometimes, but I’ll always be gentle with your soul. She bruises far more easily.”
The author did an exceptional job dealing with the seriousness of an eating disorder without glossing over it. Thankfully it didn't
eclipse the story-line. It just made the journey bittersweet.
Every day is a battle for Lacey Petrou. Enjoying the simplest things in life is a struggle, the very things that so many take for granted. Little things like eating and drinking has become emotionally and physically crippling. Every day an effort not to relapse.
“She’s always with me, spitting insults and cruelty and telling me I’m unlovable, fat and greedy.”
Museum Director Stian Blomqvist slash Swedish ‘Viking’ finds himself without an assistant. Known as being controlling and difficult to work with, it's by chance that Lacey finds herself as his new assistant.
Stian is a disciplined man, with enough kindness and patience to offer a form of therapy that could assist Lacey with healing. A relationship formed over mutual respect, trust, control and ultimately submission; it is the perfect combination.
“She trusted me. I like to be wanted, and I fucking love to be needed.”
It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Brianna Hale’s works. Where she is the queen of daddy kink romances that captures your heart, this time around ‘Contol Freak’ will appeal to a broader mass of readers.
YES, our hero thrives on being called daddy but its irrelevant. This story was the right amount of character building and sexual heat to be perfect.
“I’m rough with your body sometimes, but I’ll always be gentle with your soul. She bruises far more easily.”
The author did an exceptional job dealing with the seriousness of an eating disorder without glossing over it. Thankfully it didn't
eclipse the story-line. It just made the journey bittersweet.
June 25, 2019
6 Billion Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟I honestly don't think Brianna can write a book I don't completely love. I'm a sobbing mess at the moment and I don't really have words to explain how much this book touched me. 😭 The subject hit close to home, and I had to set it aside several times because I couldn't read through my tears. It was gut wrenching. Emotional. Heartbreaking. At the same time it was also sweet. Hopeful. Romantic. Funny. Sexy. This was more than just an excellently written romance book. It was more than just a kinky "Daddy" book. It was a journey of two wonderful characters and a chance meeting that changed both their lives. This was probably my favorite book I have read by this author to date.
You deserve all the stars in the world Miz Hale.... 💗💗
June 21, 2019
I went into this book with a preconceived notion. The blurb, the cover, led me to think I knew exactly what I was going to get. But this book was so much more than that. With layer, upon layer, of emotion this story pulled me in until my gut was twisted, my heart felt wrenched out of my chest, and my cheeks were wet with tears. And I loved every freaking moment of it!
The angst of this story is not within the relationship between Lacey and her boss, Stian. Nor is it because he is fifteen years older than her. The angst revolves around a voice in Lacey’s head. A voice that abuses her on a constant loop, a voice she has pushed firmly into a box in her mind, a voice that refuses to stay there.
I’ve never read a book with a heroine that suffers from anorexia that has struck such a chord with me as this one did. I was expecting the author’s note to share her own experiences with the disease. To know that she researched this topic to such a degree and was then able to make me feel all of Lacey’s pain, simply amazes me.
“I wish I were one of your bonsai plants,” I whisper, not looking him. “I wish I could feel like there was one reason for me to be. One thing I had to do.” I wish I had someone who understands what I need and is there for the worst parts, as he is now. “I feel different when I’m around you. I like you very much and wish you could…”
I choke the words off because I’m not treading in dangerous waters now, I’m walking right into a deep, shark-infested ocean with stones in my pocket.”
If the above topic and my jabbering on about it turns you off, stop please, because there is a deep, rich, emotional relationship that develops within the pages of this book. And it is this relationship that takes center stage.
Stian was nothing like I expected. “Control Freak”? Perhaps a bit, but not in the way I imagined. He was never harsh (other than when he first met Lacey) or mean as many dominants seem to be in the books I’ve read. He was so careful and kind, gentle and loving with everything to do with Lacey. But he also knew she needed a place and time to get out of her head. Enter the lite BDSM, spanking, and Daddy Dom/Little Girl element.
I usually get aggravated with these elements, but not so in this case. It was laid out in such beautiful symmetry with the characters both in a place to accept it and the hero never crossing a line or even attempting to do so. It was done with love and care and I couldn’t get enough of it.
This book is so much more than sex, a hero in control, or Lacey’s disease. It digs deep into the characters with all the good and the bad that makes up their psyche, and then lays them out for the reader to see. It’s very fast paced, not long in length, and never repetitive. The chemistry between the hero and heroine absolutely sizzles across the pages, and there is no push and pull. Reading this book has been an absolutely beautiful experience!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
The angst of this story is not within the relationship between Lacey and her boss, Stian. Nor is it because he is fifteen years older than her. The angst revolves around a voice in Lacey’s head. A voice that abuses her on a constant loop, a voice she has pushed firmly into a box in her mind, a voice that refuses to stay there.
I’ve never read a book with a heroine that suffers from anorexia that has struck such a chord with me as this one did. I was expecting the author’s note to share her own experiences with the disease. To know that she researched this topic to such a degree and was then able to make me feel all of Lacey’s pain, simply amazes me.
“I wish I were one of your bonsai plants,” I whisper, not looking him. “I wish I could feel like there was one reason for me to be. One thing I had to do.” I wish I had someone who understands what I need and is there for the worst parts, as he is now. “I feel different when I’m around you. I like you very much and wish you could…”
I choke the words off because I’m not treading in dangerous waters now, I’m walking right into a deep, shark-infested ocean with stones in my pocket.”
If the above topic and my jabbering on about it turns you off, stop please, because there is a deep, rich, emotional relationship that develops within the pages of this book. And it is this relationship that takes center stage.
Stian was nothing like I expected. “Control Freak”? Perhaps a bit, but not in the way I imagined. He was never harsh (other than when he first met Lacey) or mean as many dominants seem to be in the books I’ve read. He was so careful and kind, gentle and loving with everything to do with Lacey. But he also knew she needed a place and time to get out of her head. Enter the lite BDSM, spanking, and Daddy Dom/Little Girl element.
I usually get aggravated with these elements, but not so in this case. It was laid out in such beautiful symmetry with the characters both in a place to accept it and the hero never crossing a line or even attempting to do so. It was done with love and care and I couldn’t get enough of it.
This book is so much more than sex, a hero in control, or Lacey’s disease. It digs deep into the characters with all the good and the bad that makes up their psyche, and then lays them out for the reader to see. It’s very fast paced, not long in length, and never repetitive. The chemistry between the hero and heroine absolutely sizzles across the pages, and there is no push and pull. Reading this book has been an absolutely beautiful experience!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
February 14, 2020
Sizzling romance with all the feels and sensitive subjects handled so great
I loved this cover first of all. Then after reading the blurb I saw that Stian is a Dom and Lacey a submissive who happens to have anorexia issues and I was afraid this would become something like him helping to cure her by ordering her to eat. I knew that wouldn’t be realistic since Anorexia is all about control over what food is put into the body. So I was very happy to find out that both subjects are handled extremely well in this book.
It was a hot romance between the two main characters, starting out as an office romance and the passion is quite steamy between them. It is not insta-love. Though it does happen fairly fast. The storyline about her disease is pretty awesome but is not what the entire book’s focus is about. It is a romance and I truly enjoyed it. Well done on all fronts to Brianna Hale.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
I loved this cover first of all. Then after reading the blurb I saw that Stian is a Dom and Lacey a submissive who happens to have anorexia issues and I was afraid this would become something like him helping to cure her by ordering her to eat. I knew that wouldn’t be realistic since Anorexia is all about control over what food is put into the body. So I was very happy to find out that both subjects are handled extremely well in this book.
It was a hot romance between the two main characters, starting out as an office romance and the passion is quite steamy between them. It is not insta-love. Though it does happen fairly fast. The storyline about her disease is pretty awesome but is not what the entire book’s focus is about. It is a romance and I truly enjoyed it. Well done on all fronts to Brianna Hale.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
July 24, 2019
5 STARS!!
Truthfully, I was hesitant to read this one . . . a 'daddy kink' book in which the heroine has an eating disorder? It sounds like a recipe for a disaster of epic proportions.
But no! On so many levels, Control Freak was fabulous!
As a museum director, Stian Blomqvist isn't an unreasonable man, but he doesn't have patience for incompetence.
One thing leads to another and they embark on a kind of D/s relationship.
So, WOW . . . These two characters were so well done. Ms. Hale did a fantastic job of weaving Stian and Lacey's stories together. Stian's steady, domineering presence and need for control . . .
"If I expect things of you, you can be damn sure I expect them of myself."HEART EYES! Unexpectedly deep and layered.
Truthfully, I was hesitant to read this one . . . a 'daddy kink' book in which the heroine has an eating disorder? It sounds like a recipe for a disaster of epic proportions.
But no! On so many levels, Control Freak was fabulous!
As a museum director, Stian Blomqvist isn't an unreasonable man, but he doesn't have patience for incompetence.
"Doing things by halves isn't my style."Lacey is his new assistant, one who appreciates the value of a busy and structured environment. She uses it as a tool to help her manage her ongoing struggles with anorexia.
One thing leads to another and they embark on a kind of D/s relationship.
So, WOW . . . These two characters were so well done. Ms. Hale did a fantastic job of weaving Stian and Lacey's stories together. Stian's steady, domineering presence and need for control . . .
I'm happiest when I have someone under my thumb. A dictator, but in the most benevolent way possible.. . . complemented Lacey's need to give it up for short periods to ease her inner turmoil perfectly.
"What's the point of living if I can't be happy? If all I can do is just exist?"But the driving force behind this unique story wasn't the sex, but Lacey's battle with anorexia. And what a battle it was! I'd never heard of the 'anorexic voice' before - what an eye-opening experience.
I've been able to construct a box in my mind and trap her in it, but she's never truly silent.I think the way the story was presented was both the best and the worst part about reading this one; it tore me up to be inside of Lacey's thoughts because I believed every gut wrenching word of them. I also really appreciated that the author resisted the temptation to sensationalize or fill the pages with cheap drama.
"I can't fix you, because you're not broken."So whether it was Lacey's heart-breaking inner dialogue or Stian's devotion or the way their love for each other grew so organically with the progression of their relationship, I found myself devouring it all.
What matters most is courage.If you decide to take this story on (and I sincerely hope you do), be prepared to run the gamut of emotions. A 2019 favorite!!
July 9, 2019
Read my interview with Briana Hale: https://wp.me/p5bsdH-2K3
Genre: Erotic Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
Stian Blomqvist liked to be in control in every aspect of his life. As a museum director, he required perfection from his staff. When Lacey Petrou joined the rank, he didn’t realize how out of control she was. He came up with a solution that could serve both of their needs but it could also possibly made things worse.
Stian was actually a lot less assholey than I expected. He might seem demanding but he was also very understanding and considerate. I liked Lacey too and sympathized with her struggles.
What I loved the most about this book is how the title was embodied in the characters differently. Control meant a different thing for each of them. I also liked how the author portrayed the character’s struggle realistically and not rushing the timeline. However, I did feel like the story is a bit off balanced because one character’s story dominated the book, instead of it being their story.
Control Freak is a story of taking control of one’s demon. It would appeal to readers looking for a Daddy kink book with a more consequential real life issue.
⛓ 👊 ⛓ . . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC . . . ⛓ 👊 ⛓
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Genre: Erotic Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
Stian Blomqvist liked to be in control in every aspect of his life. As a museum director, he required perfection from his staff. When Lacey Petrou joined the rank, he didn’t realize how out of control she was. He came up with a solution that could serve both of their needs but it could also possibly made things worse.
Stian was actually a lot less assholey than I expected. He might seem demanding but he was also very understanding and considerate. I liked Lacey too and sympathized with her struggles.
“I won’t stand for you disrespecting yourself. Not looking after yourself is disrespecting you, and it’s disrespecting me as well. I expect better than that from you. Is that clear?”
What I loved the most about this book is how the title was embodied in the characters differently. Control meant a different thing for each of them. I also liked how the author portrayed the character’s struggle realistically and not rushing the timeline. However, I did feel like the story is a bit off balanced because one character’s story dominated the book, instead of it being their story.
“I’m rough with your body sometimes, but I’ll always be gentle with your soul. She bruises far more easily.”
Control Freak is a story of taking control of one’s demon. It would appeal to readers looking for a Daddy kink book with a more consequential real life issue.
⛓ 👊 ⛓ . . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC . . . ⛓ 👊 ⛓
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
June 25, 2019
Brianna Hale, a new-to-me author, gave me pause. While Control Freak has plenty of daddy kink for all of us dirty readers, it tackled an issue that isn't commonly broached in romance books. It made me think, sympathize, and hope for a future not even the heroine could imagine. Lacey suffered from anorexia and it completely ruled her life. While other girls were worried about boys and parties and sex, she struggled with her inner voice. See, that voice was loud and prevented her from truly living. She lived under a cloud of doubt, insecurity, and feelings of inadequacy. Although it was obvious that she had no reason to feel that way, getting her to believe it was something else. That is until Stian came along...
I loved how the author created Stian. Yes, the entire age gap romance, daddy/little girl theme, and his inherent dominance were hot, but this man sincerely cared about Lacey's welfare. He wanted her to feel whole. He researched her illness and found ways to combat it. He gave her the freedom to feel at peace with herself and challenged her to escape her personal boundaries. He allowed her to taste some of the things she had denied herself and he gave her hope. He was incredible!
I do think that Lacey's eating disorder took up a lot of space and overshadowed the kinky fukry I was looking forward to, but it was handled with a ton of sensitivity. It made me realize how serious this issue is, mentally and physically, and the way it was woven in with the romance was something I don't see often. I enjoyed this author's writing and I would definitely read something from her again.
I loved how the author created Stian. Yes, the entire age gap romance, daddy/little girl theme, and his inherent dominance were hot, but this man sincerely cared about Lacey's welfare. He wanted her to feel whole. He researched her illness and found ways to combat it. He gave her the freedom to feel at peace with herself and challenged her to escape her personal boundaries. He allowed her to taste some of the things she had denied herself and he gave her hope. He was incredible!
I do think that Lacey's eating disorder took up a lot of space and overshadowed the kinky fukry I was looking forward to, but it was handled with a ton of sensitivity. It made me realize how serious this issue is, mentally and physically, and the way it was woven in with the romance was something I don't see often. I enjoyed this author's writing and I would definitely read something from her again.
June 12, 2019
I show her the two silver objects on my palm. Nipple clamps. I apply each one, screwing them firmly into place and giving them a small tug so I know they're secure. I look up and wait a moment, giving her the chance to say orange or red if she needs to.
Her expression is slightly pained, but she doesn’t speak.
I’m not finished yet. I take out two small metal weights on thin silver chain, and I hook each one to the clamps. The tips of her nipples are an angry pink.
‘Do you want to say anything, Lacey?’
She shakes her head firmly, though her lower lip is caught between her teeth and her gaze is fastened on the other side of the room, as if she’s concentrating hard.
‘That’s wonderful,’ I murmur, tracing her nipples with the tip of a finger. ‘You just stay there.’
I go back to my desk and continue with my work. I don’t look at her, but I’m totally aware of her. She’s breathing more sharply than normally so it must hurt.
Good.
Her silent fortitude is like a drug for me. It’s brutish, liking sweet girls in pain, but it fucking makes my dick hard.
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2LzIGDg
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2YbujWZ
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2LrJnOJ
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/302SCrI
July 1, 2019
4.5 stars
I knew I shouldn't have read this at work. I'm lucky it's been hot lately and no one asked why I was pink in the face most of the day. But I just couldn't help my self. Once I read that first page I was totally and completely hooked.
I adored this book. I think Brianna Hale did a terrific job of depicting a person with anorexia. And not just Lacey's struggle with it but also the other aspects of her character too. Often in books if a person is suffering from something , it becomes the centre and usually eclipses other personality traits. We saw Lacey as a whole. All her inner torments, her anger, her lost hope, her despair but also the sweetness, the strength and perseverance. In short this is not a plain Daddy kink book folks. Though it is excruciatingly hot at times, it's not just plain tingly smut.
I think what made me truly fall in love with this book was the fact that the BDSM was not used as a cure-all. So often we see it used to sooth stressed/abused/mistreated etc. women. Lacey doesn't overcome her illness because she's a sub. She fights back and works hard at it. The submissive stuff foils the story and brings some realisations but it is not the solution. And I absolutely loved that. I also loved that both of them took it relatively slow.
I would have loved it even more if it was a bit longer and we got to see more of how Stain ticks. But maybe I'm just greedy as usual. The ending made my heart genuinely sing for these two. If you don't have any triggers concerning eating disorders you should give it a try. The BDSM aspect is scorching but not too deep and the Daddy aspect is very light.
I knew I shouldn't have read this at work. I'm lucky it's been hot lately and no one asked why I was pink in the face most of the day. But I just couldn't help my self. Once I read that first page I was totally and completely hooked.
I adored this book. I think Brianna Hale did a terrific job of depicting a person with anorexia. And not just Lacey's struggle with it but also the other aspects of her character too. Often in books if a person is suffering from something , it becomes the centre and usually eclipses other personality traits. We saw Lacey as a whole. All her inner torments, her anger, her lost hope, her despair but also the sweetness, the strength and perseverance. In short this is not a plain Daddy kink book folks. Though it is excruciatingly hot at times, it's not just plain tingly smut.
I think what made me truly fall in love with this book was the fact that the BDSM was not used as a cure-all. So often we see it used to sooth stressed/abused/mistreated etc. women. Lacey doesn't overcome her illness because she's a sub. She fights back and works hard at it. The submissive stuff foils the story and brings some realisations but it is not the solution. And I absolutely loved that. I also loved that both of them took it relatively slow.
I would have loved it even more if it was a bit longer and we got to see more of how Stain ticks. But maybe I'm just greedy as usual. The ending made my heart genuinely sing for these two. If you don't have any triggers concerning eating disorders you should give it a try. The BDSM aspect is scorching but not too deep and the Daddy aspect is very light.
June 15, 2019
♥️ 'I want everything...' ♥️
INSTAGRAM: Insane Book Lover 😊❤
————
📌 Release Date:: JUNE 27th (Paperbacks already LIVE 🙌)
❤️ ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
————
Sooo I will try to write my feelings without spoiling.
This was such a captivating and a heartbreaking and an exhilarating read.
Yes all together. 👏
We see Lacey a girl fighting her own demons regarding her eating disorder recovery and trying to find that something or someone, in this case, to make her feel safe in her own skin.
And we see Stian, a business man. And even though at first glance he seems like a jacka**, he is an honest man and he is possessive and accepting.
I loveee their relationship and how they found in each other that missing piece.
I loveeeed how Stian supported and accepted and loved Lacey.
He was there for her even when her demons pushed him away!!!
I loved how Lacey in the end realized that she could find that happy end she deserves.
And I loveeed how Brianna handled this difficult topic. I truly believe it wasn't easy.
⭐️If you wanna read a book that is full of emotions, love, understanding, struggle, hope, sexiness, age-gap and the right amount of kink. This is your next read!!! 😜
💙 p.s.1: I got CRAZYYYY when I learned that Lacey was half-Greek. As a Greek it made me soo proud and happy. And I am truly thankful of Brianna for the way she introduced, presented and protected Greek heritage. 😊❤️
——————————————————————————————
★The teaser was made by me.
★★The Pictures used are not mine. Credits to the owners/makers. 💜��
——————————————————————————————
INSTAGRAM: Insane Book Lover 😊❤
————
📌 Release Date:: JUNE 27th (Paperbacks already LIVE 🙌)
❤️ ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
————
Sooo I will try to write my feelings without spoiling.
This was such a captivating and a heartbreaking and an exhilarating read.
Yes all together. 👏
We see Lacey a girl fighting her own demons regarding her eating disorder recovery and trying to find that something or someone, in this case, to make her feel safe in her own skin.
And we see Stian, a business man. And even though at first glance he seems like a jacka**, he is an honest man and he is possessive and accepting.
I loveee their relationship and how they found in each other that missing piece.
I loveeeed how Stian supported and accepted and loved Lacey.
He was there for her even when her demons pushed him away!!!
I loved how Lacey in the end realized that she could find that happy end she deserves.
And I loveeed how Brianna handled this difficult topic. I truly believe it wasn't easy.
⭐️If you wanna read a book that is full of emotions, love, understanding, struggle, hope, sexiness, age-gap and the right amount of kink. This is your next read!!! 😜
💙 p.s.1: I got CRAZYYYY when I learned that Lacey was half-Greek. As a Greek it made me soo proud and happy. And I am truly thankful of Brianna for the way she introduced, presented and protected Greek heritage. 😊❤️
——————————————————————————————
★The teaser was made by me.
★★The Pictures used are not mine. Credits to the owners/makers. 💜��
——————————————————————————————
July 1, 2019
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
This book actually surprised me with how much depth it gave to the characters. It kind of took a step back from the overly-sexual book I was expecting and instead gave us an emotional story. Which I loved and it had me very intrigued into everything going on. It was honestly an incredible journey between Stian and Lucy and I'm so happy that I got to experience it with them. And of course, there was still some much-loved "Daddy" moments that added the heat to the book that I loved. Definitely a must read for all Daddy Dom lovers.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
This book actually surprised me with how much depth it gave to the characters. It kind of took a step back from the overly-sexual book I was expecting and instead gave us an emotional story. Which I loved and it had me very intrigued into everything going on. It was honestly an incredible journey between Stian and Lucy and I'm so happy that I got to experience it with them. And of course, there was still some much-loved "Daddy" moments that added the heat to the book that I loved. Definitely a must read for all Daddy Dom lovers.
June 17, 2019
At 24 years old, Lucy Petrou is a master’s student who appears to be controlled on the outside, but on the inside she faces a continual battle. After accepting a position as an administrative assistant, Lucy’s known parameters change and it makes her want to expand how she lives even though it causes fear.
“This is something that’s all mine, and it’s filled with pleasure and more than a dash of naughtiness.”
Stian Blomquist is a Swedish native who lives in London and works as a museum director. Having been labeled a control freak, Stian is used to his rigid, no nonsense nature, yet he meets a woman that appeals to his nurturing side and he wants to be the man she needs.
“It’s brutish liking sweet girls in pain, but it fucking makes my dick hard.”
As this story develops, it becomes clear that both Lacey and Stian have control issues; however, Lacey’s reasons run far deeper. Together, they give each other a sense of purpose. For Lacey, she finally has a break from her thoughts until she begins to worry about her ability to be in a relationship. What ensues is a storyline that delves into the emotional and physical aspect of Lacey’s character.
“You’re not a puzzle, Lacey. You showed me the most vulnerable parts of yourself and I thought she was beautiful every single time.”
In starting this book, I was expecting a kinky daddy story and there were certainly hot moments that satisfied. However, the driving force in the plot is Lacey’s recovery and how she and Stian strive to find a balance that works for them. Reading about how Lacey’s inner voice controls her was heartbreaking, but her fight is extremely admirable. Most importantly, I liked how Stian didn’t fix Lacey, though their relationship may have been the catalyst for change.
Control Freak is a romance about inner strength and vulnerability. This book will appeal to those looking for an emotional impact while also getting a daddy fix.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.*
*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey!*
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
July 2, 2023
I am surprise how much I like Control Freak. I have been wanting to read this book for a very long time. I think this is Miss Hale's first book. The writing, can be much improved. Maybe adding plot/ drama, the story could be more fantastic.
The BDSM aspect is very mild. What Miss Hale did is adding more aspect to the anorexia mental health issue. I like it when the author addresses such sensitive subject with respect and gentleness. And of course a good research.
Overall a wonderful book.
4 stars
The BDSM aspect is very mild. What Miss Hale did is adding more aspect to the anorexia mental health issue. I like it when the author addresses such sensitive subject with respect and gentleness. And of course a good research.
Overall a wonderful book.
4 stars
December 1, 2021
Ah, Stian...
Benim 8'li İsveç köftem
İskandinav, kontrol manyağım
Runemaster Vikingim.
Aşşırı önemli işlerimi halledeyim, yazarım mutlaka.
Bakın şimdi.
Bir adam var. 39 yaşında, müze müdürü (sanatı sepeti yerinde, ağzı mis gibi laf yapıyor), sarışın, kaslı, İsveçli, dövmeli, green thumb ve kontrol manyağı.
Karşınızda,
STIAN BLOMQVIST
Bir de kadın var. 25 yaşında (kadın karakterler o kadar aklımda kalmıyor ki tam emin değilim), master öğrencisi, yeme bozukluğu tedavisi görmüş ve görmekte olan biri.
LACEY PETROU
Kontrol manyağı müze müdürümüzün son asistanı dayanamamış ve istifa etmiştir. Bir gün Stian bir eventte kızımızın babası ile sohbet ediyor, baba diyor ki 'Duydum ki asistansız kalmışsın, benim kızım da bir iş arıyor yaz boyunca çalışacağı, göndereyim mi sana?'. Laf arasında kızın yeme bozukluğu da geçiyor ama önemsiz gibi bahsediliyor. Stian da gönder gelsin diyor. Yine aynı eventte Stian merdivenlerden yuvarlanmak üzereyken bir genç kızı son anda yakalar ve seçkin isveççe sözler eşliğinde fırçalayarak kurtarır. Kız cevap bile veremez, siner kalır bu adan karşısında.
Birkaç gün sonra iş mülakatında karşılaşan bu ikili standart bir görüşme yapar. Lacey işe alınır, Stian'ın az biraz zorlayıcı tüm isteklerine de boyun eğer. Kızımızın yeme bozukluğu sorunsalı var bunun yanında da itaatkar eğilimleri olan, kontrolün başkasının elinde olmasına bayılan ve sanırım 'people pleaser' diye etiketlenebilecek bi insan. Patronun fiziksel çekiciliğinin yanı sıra challenging görevleri ve kontrol manyaklığı bu kızda heyecan yaratıyor. Başlıyor Stian'a 'yes sir' diye hitap etmeye.
Stian'ın da kanı kaynamaya başlıyor. Görmüş geçirmiş adam, anlıyor seksüel imaları, yes sir demeler, boyunda choker ile işe gelmeler vs. Bir gerilim yaşanıyor ofiste. Lacey adamın ofisindeki saksıda duran bonzaileri bile kıskanır hale geliyor, 'keşke ben de bitki olsam da Mr. Blomqvist beni de sulasa, benimle ilgilense' demeye başlıyor.
Duygular açıklanıyor, yüzleşiliyor ve ikilimiz bir anlaşma yapıyor. Akşam 6 ile 7 arası patronun ofisinde zaman geçirmek suretiyle bir dd/lg ilişki başlıyor. Bu randevular var ya... bunlar küresel ısınmayı arttıracak sıcaklıkta ama Lacey sağanak olup yağıyor hfhjgkhdfk
Neyse azgınlığı bırakalım, o akşam bir saatlik buluşmalar kıza iyi gelir gibi olurken bir yanda da kız terapi ve tedavilerini ihmal edince mental olarak tepetaklak olmaya başlıyor. Yaz sonu işten ayrılma vakti ise bir anda karanlık çağa düşüyor.
Lacey'nin rahatsızlığı ile ilgili de bir sürü şey daha öğreniyoruz lakin odağımı Stian'dan ayırmak istemedim yorumda. Konu işlenişi fena değil, devamlı seks okumuyoruz, bir plot var yani. Sonrası meraklısına kalsın ve gidip okusun. Fena değil, ben beğendim. Önceki okuduğum kitabında nefret kustuğum Brianna'nın bu sefer iyi bir iş çıkardığını düşünüyorum.
Benim 8'li İsveç köftem
İskandinav, kontrol manyağım
Runemaster Vikingim.
Aşşırı önemli işlerimi halledeyim, yazarım mutlaka.
Bakın şimdi.
Bir adam var. 39 yaşında, müze müdürü (sanatı sepeti yerinde, ağzı mis gibi laf yapıyor), sarışın, kaslı, İsveçli, dövmeli, green thumb ve kontrol manyağı.
Karşınızda,
STIAN BLOMQVIST
Bir de kadın var. 25 yaşında (kadın karakterler o kadar aklımda kalmıyor ki tam emin değilim), master öğrencisi, yeme bozukluğu tedavisi görmüş ve görmekte olan biri.
LACEY PETROU
Kontrol manyağı müze müdürümüzün son asistanı dayanamamış ve istifa etmiştir. Bir gün Stian bir eventte kızımızın babası ile sohbet ediyor, baba diyor ki 'Duydum ki asistansız kalmışsın, benim kızım da bir iş arıyor yaz boyunca çalışacağı, göndereyim mi sana?'. Laf arasında kızın yeme bozukluğu da geçiyor ama önemsiz gibi bahsediliyor. Stian da gönder gelsin diyor. Yine aynı eventte Stian merdivenlerden yuvarlanmak üzereyken bir genç kızı son anda yakalar ve seçkin isveççe sözler eşliğinde fırçalayarak kurtarır. Kız cevap bile veremez, siner kalır bu adan karşısında.
Birkaç gün sonra iş mülakatında karşılaşan bu ikili standart bir görüşme yapar. Lacey işe alınır, Stian'ın az biraz zorlayıcı tüm isteklerine de boyun eğer. Kızımızın yeme bozukluğu sorunsalı var bunun yanında da itaatkar eğilimleri olan, kontrolün başkasının elinde olmasına bayılan ve sanırım 'people pleaser' diye etiketlenebilecek bi insan. Patronun fiziksel çekiciliğinin yanı sıra challenging görevleri ve kontrol manyaklığı bu kızda heyecan yaratıyor. Başlıyor Stian'a 'yes sir' diye hitap etmeye.
Stian'ın da kanı kaynamaya başlıyor. Görmüş geçirmiş adam, anlıyor seksüel imaları, yes sir demeler, boyunda choker ile işe gelmeler vs. Bir gerilim yaşanıyor ofiste. Lacey adamın ofisindeki saksıda duran bonzaileri bile kıskanır hale geliyor, 'keşke ben de bitki olsam da Mr. Blomqvist beni de sulasa, benimle ilgilense' demeye başlıyor.
Duygular açıklanıyor, yüzleşiliyor ve ikilimiz bir anlaşma yapıyor. Akşam 6 ile 7 arası patronun ofisinde zaman geçirmek suretiyle bir dd/lg ilişki başlıyor. Bu randevular var ya... bunlar küresel ısınmayı arttıracak sıcaklıkta ama Lacey sağanak olup yağıyor hfhjgkhdfk
Neyse azgınlığı bırakalım, o akşam bir saatlik buluşmalar kıza iyi gelir gibi olurken bir yanda da kız terapi ve tedavilerini ihmal edince mental olarak tepetaklak olmaya başlıyor. Yaz sonu işten ayrılma vakti ise bir anda karanlık çağa düşüyor.
Lacey'nin rahatsızlığı ile ilgili de bir sürü şey daha öğreniyoruz lakin odağımı Stian'dan ayırmak istemedim yorumda. Konu işlenişi fena değil, devamlı seks okumuyoruz, bir plot var yani. Sonrası meraklısına kalsın ve gidip okusun. Fena değil, ben beğendim. Önceki okuduğum kitabında nefret kustuğum Brianna'nın bu sefer iyi bir iş çıkardığını düşünüyorum.
September 10, 2019
ALL THE SINGLE KIZ KURULARI!
amatör pornografi senaryosuna dönmüş erotica romance pazarında aradığınız tek kalmış orijinal james dean filmi tadında kitap buldum.
ahlaksızlık yapmayın DEAN dedim.
I fit the leather collar around her throat and wrap the chain around my hand. She looks up at me with clear, calm eyes, and I drink in the sight of her.
Collared.
Chained.
Mine.
nys dalıyorum nefes alın.
↠ Stian Blomqvist
*goofy smile with a raised eyebrow*
Museum Director
*closed eyes with a peaceful smile*
39
*naughty giggle with a hand over mouth*
Swedish. Even better a Viking
*reaching heavens door*
↠ Lacey Petrou. 25. Eating disorder.
çünkü bana ne kızdan aq.
nys korkunç ingilizcemi bi kenara bırakmam lazım fangirling time. bu yorumu sevin, ing yazdığımda beğenmiyosunuz resmen asdfasfasdf
en varoşundan, en popüler yazarından, en brutalinden, en softundan bir sürü DD/lg kitabı okudum çünkü ben aşüfteler aşüftesiyim. ve ısrarla sub/dom veya DD/lg ilişkisinin illa "sürekli" alldafuckintime olmak zorunda olmadığını, hatta illa age-gap'in de şart olmadığını (olunca bambaşka muazzam bişi oluyor çünkü ashufing (bu kelimeyi camiaya kazandırıyorum, telifi bende) afasdfasf (değil lan daddy issues o, şşş)), nys her role-play'li ilişkinin seks dışında role-play'siz anlarını barındırdığını, "taking care"in bu role play'de ağırlıklı olarak her şeyden önemli olduğunu ve her zaman kızın 15-18 yaşında olup mevzunun hebephilia ya da ephebophiliaya (pedofili değil) kaymadığını demekle geçti ömrüm daha da geçer çünkü yazarlarımız kezban.
Ama bu var ya tam böyle aaazıma layık mükkkkko olmuş, niye söylicem de önce konuya bi' girem.
Şimdi bu tatlışların ilişkileri kızın babasının sanat sergisindeyken kızın merdivenleri fark etmeyip düşecekken kızın babasının arkadaşı olan sizin vikingin benim yiğidimin *giggle* kızı kurtarıp üstüne kızı herkesin gözü önünde azarlamasıyla başlıyor. burası size göz devirtebilir, sikerler diyebilirsiniz de ben böyle dedim diye diyosunuz, ben orda merdivenlerden aşağı attım kendimi. Ama kızımız cep telefonunu ararken fln değil .
nys, kızın babası sanatçı, kızımız da master yapacak ve o yaz boş. babası da sizin vikingin benim yiğidimin yanında işe başla diyor çünkü yiğidimin asistanını yeni kovmuş "dediğimi yapmıyo, itaatkarsız" diyerek asdfasdfas böylece kızımız gerçekten iyi olduğu için ki gerçekten çalışkan, işe başlıyor. kızın yemekle ilgili en belirgin iritesi başkalarının yanında yiyememesi, davette bi kadeh içki bile dahil buna.
Asıl mevzu kızın, ne sub ne lg'nin ne olduğunu bilmeden, daha önce hiç deneyimlememişken adama içinden gelen bir dürtüyle "sir" demesiyle başlıyor, sonra "daddy"e dönüyor. Çünkü herif zaten viking gibi, ayrıca o kontrolü elinde tutan tavırlarıyla, blurbde de dediği gibi kız kendi demonlarıyla "onun" baş edebileceğini düşünüyor. Adam da zaten kinkymiş, sonraki sahnelerde fark ediyoruz.
Gelelim neden mükko ona gelem açılın oy dağlar...
→ Adam kızı direk yatağa atmadı. Çünkü ilişkileri "lust" üzerine kurulmadı. Bi'şey illa "insta"ysa tavşanlar belgeseli olmak zorunda değil. Kimi kitaplar (bkz: Bad Romeo (yorum)) o kadar cinsellik önde ki illallah geliyor insana. Ortada ciddi anlamda kızın bazı şeylerden kaçmak için kendini güvende hissettiren bir adama sunması, adamın da bunu çüküyle değil kıza yaklaşımıyla çözmesi. Ha, kıza dokunmadı mı, dokundu. İş çıkışı kız gelip dizleri üstünde daddy'sinden gereken hem cinsel hem duygusal ilgiyi gördü mü gördü VE KIZDAN ZERRE BİŞİ BEKLEMEDİ. Kızın bekaretini bozması bayağı zaman aldı hatta (delirtmeyin lan beni).
İlk ve son kez yanlış hatırlamıyorsam Becoming Calder'da popping cherryden sonra go down olayını burada gördüm. Aşırı animalistic beauty.
“You’re just so pretty when you cry.”
→ Role playing'in ne olduğuna dair emin adımlarla gitmek. Emin adımla gitmesini aşırı beğendim ben. Bu daha önce hiç tecrübe etmeyip little girl kesilenleri düşündükçe içim acıyor ya da anca seviştikten sonra "R u OK" diyen herifleri vs. Ki kız da bi süre sonra dönüp diyor ki "bana little girl demiyosun, kendini geri çekiyosun, aslında kullanmak istediğin bi çok yıkıcı kelimeyi bana söyleyemiyosun çnkü hastayım ühü" fln gibi. Sizin vikingin benim yiğidim de diyo ki “Being my girl is not about your size or the way you look. I don’t feel censored because it’s easy to call you other things.”
Yani diyo ki:
"Well, woman de way de time cold, I wanna be keepin' you warm
I got the right temperature fi shelter you from the storm
Oh Lord, gyal, I got de right tactics to turn you on
And girl, I wanna be de Papa, you can be de Mom, oh, oh!"
teşekkürler Sean Paul...
kız "ben sana layık bi sub değilim niye benim kurallarım yok" dediğinde "altıda burda dizlerinin üstünde daddysini bekleyen little girl ol bana yeter karaste, daha fazlasını isteyemem" diyo. bak karaste diyo my little girl değil.
“No. I said, are you going to please me? Just as you are. Just like this.”
↳ Kıza da zaten bir süre sonra "bana Stain de" diyo. (bakın "bana Stain de my little girl" değil.) Kız da "ama niçin sana daddy dememi istemiyo musun" deyince "beni patronun değil Stain olarak gör" diyo. Yani diyo ki "karaste'm diyom sana durmadan insan bi translate'ten bakar aq ne demek bu, daddy işin spiritüel boyutu"
↳ En azından copy değil güzel çünkü her dom/sub, DD/lg ilişkisi aynı değil. Okuyup da beğendiğimden gömdüğüme, diğerleri sex sells için yazarken bir amaçla yazılmış hissi verdi bana (ki gerçekten umarım öyledir), ve kızın disorderı olmasıyla, daha emotional duygular barındırmasıyla alakalı değil elbette daha önce de atıyorum oversize ya da daddy issues ya da body shameden (yara, iz vb) dolayı sıkıntılı çok h okuduk sonuçta.
aşağıdakiler de bunla alakalı.
→ Pushing but not forcing. Adam kontrol manyağı değil aslında. Çünkü yazılmış en iyi ama şerefsiz olmayan kontrol manyağı This Man'den aşüftesi olduğum Jesse'i biliyorum, o kontrol manyağı (ah kalbim). Bu adam kontrolü elinde tutmayı, dediklerinin yapılmasını ve istendiğini gibi yapılmasını istiyor. (hadi aradaki farkı çözün asdfasdf) nys kontrol manyağı diyelim yine de çünkü bence zaten herif dediğin böyle olur sfasdfasf Feministler kuduradursun ironi şu, kontrol manyağı olmasına rağmen aşırı sabırlı oluşu, çünkü kızın zorlanmaya ihtiyacı yok, kontrolu bazı zamanlarda birinin eline bırakmaya ihtiyacı var. Ki ilişki temelinde düşününce yiğidim zorlasa zorlar.
↳ Şey değil yani "obey ulan yala good girl'üm benim oh wat a pussy here is your shaplack" *lol* Yiğidim cherry popping'de kıza "subspace senin için daha mı iyi yoksa vanilla mı" diyor onun yerine.
→ İlk defa söz konusu forbidden veya taboo temasının bunun sayfalarca tekrarlanmadığı HATTA ailenin öğrenme mevzusu çıkana kadar HİÇ BAHSEDİLMEDİĞİ ve sırf bu yüzden gerildiğim bi kitap okudum. Çünkü yani bebeler, arkadaşınızın kızıyla A.K.A çalışanınızla A.K.A sizden 14 yaş küçük biriyle tutti frutti, ofisin ortasında asdfasdf
“Lacey,” he says sharply as if reading my mind. “I didn’t mean you. I mean it’s complicated, because I always want everything.”
There’s a fire burning in his eyes that I’ve never seen before. He touches my neck again, his thumb caressing the column of my throat, almost as if he can’t help himself.
“Everything?” I whisper.
Mr. Blomqvist moves toward me, each of his steps slow and measured. His grip on my throat tightens, and he keeps coming until he has me pinned against the wall.
His mouth is very close to mine. “Yes, everything. I’m a control freak, remember?”
→ Abi sürekli dirt talk ya da sex ya da sexting yoktu. Bunun benim için anlamını bilemezsiniz. In Scottish We Thrust bilir, ben sevişmiyolar diye artık YA ya da düz adult romance okuyamıyorum adfasfasf ama yukarda da dediğim tavşan belgeseli izlemekten, noldu demektense dur seks çözer kafasından, kendini açmak varken i miss your pussylerden bana gına geldi.
⇀ Sondaki angsty'den sonraki (kızın götü başı gene dağıttığı) o kaçma-kovalamaya gerek yok gibiydi. Ama oradaki o sabrı, kıza zaman verişi, "daddy'in sana buraya gel diyor open your legs de gör bak benden geçemezsin" demiyo Berdan Mardini gibi.
⇀ Kötü olan şey, HEA'a geçerkenki süreyi işlememiş; bi' breakdown okumak, dışarda/parkta piknikteyken bi' struggle iyi olurdu, direk iyi partlara geçtik.
↳ Bu genelde de böyle oldu btw. Şöyle bişi, bi anda aşk sözleri olmadan always'ler, i'm happy if you are happy'ler konuşulmaya başlandı. Birlikte oturup sessizce kızın sizin vikingin benim yiğidimin gözü önünde yiyebilmesini okuduk ve iş dışında hiç bişi okumadık, aradan zaman geçse de hop diye oldu ama şey diyemezsiniz insta-love insta-lust, SÜREÇ YAVAŞ da buna daha çok inanabilmek için başka bişiler de okumak isterdim, vakit geçirmeleri adına. Ha sevişseler de düzüşmemiş olmaları daha inandırıcı yapıyor gözümde o ayrı adsfasdfds
Sayamayacağım kadar fazla kanıtım fln var daha adfadf mesela kıza aldığı "medusa collar"ın kızın için anlamı büyük olunca kız bi an sarsılıyo, yiğidim de diyo ki "yanlış bişi mi yaptım". Delirdim aq Miran Ağam gibi delirdim.
Ya da yiğidimin bonsaileriyle yapılan bağdaştırma. üf yether.
My eyes land on the pale pink choker around her throat and I feel the urge to touch it. To feel her pulse beating beneath her fragile skin.
5 puanlık bir kitap değil ama sırf yetmiş üç kez söylediğim sub/dom ve DD/lg'yi farklı işlediği için 5'i veriyorum. Ki ben Brianna'ın The Protégé (yorum)'ini okudum, o da DD/lg'dü mesela ama bunun kadar "olmuş" değildi, daha piyasa ağzıydı o. Ve The Necromancer's Bride (yorum) gibi siktiriboktan bi kitabı da var yani her an ortalık bok gölüne dönebilirdi.
Min söta flicka
xoxoxo
iko
June 21, 2019
I have been waiting and waiting for this book and omg this has got to be my all time favorite book..its not out yet on ebook i bought this in paperback (thats out early) and omgg the cover is hawtt!!! Book comes out June 27th!!
I had some tears in my eyes due to HER (the evil voice in Lacey head) i wanted to hug Lacey so badly at the journey she had to go through, and the struggles each minute of every day she had to fight. Plus her relationship with Stain Looordddd this man!! He was the perfect daddy/book boyfriend in my eyes yes the way they met was alittle Grrrr but the friendship/relationship they slowly started to have was amazing.. my heart broke when things got tough cuz Stain didn't give up on his girl even when she was giving up on herself..
Angsty, No ow/om drama, No cheating, dramaish, sexy times, virgin gal and not a manehore
Recommend- Yes
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Slow-burnish
Older/younger couple
Daddy kink
BDSM-ish
Push/pull from h
Mentions of eating disorders
Mentions anxiety
No condom
Safe-ish
Hea
Epilogue
I had some tears in my eyes due to HER (the evil voice in Lacey head) i wanted to hug Lacey so badly at the journey she had to go through, and the struggles each minute of every day she had to fight. Plus her relationship with Stain Looordddd this man!! He was the perfect daddy/book boyfriend in my eyes yes the way they met was alittle Grrrr but the friendship/relationship they slowly started to have was amazing.. my heart broke when things got tough cuz Stain didn't give up on his girl even when she was giving up on herself..
Angsty, No ow/om drama, No cheating, dramaish, sexy times, virgin gal and not a manehore
Recommend- Yes
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Slow-burnish
Older/younger couple
Daddy kink
BDSM-ish
Push/pull from h
Mentions of eating disorders
Mentions anxiety
No condom
Safe-ish
Hea
Epilogue
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2019
The cover caught my attention. Let’s be honest it’s hard to not notice and appreciate that cover.
So I read the blurb but I just didn’t really fancy reading a book that featured an eating disorder.
But the reviews were so good. So many of my friends had read and loved it.
So I decided to give it a try.
Lacey suffers from anorexia and it’s crippling. It completely controls her. Every minute of every day. She’s not living, not really. She’s merely existing from one day to the next.
She gets a summer job working for Stian Blomqvist. The job or rather Mr Blomqvist gives her an element of peace and control.
It wasn’t easy reading at times. I was surprised how large a part the anorexia actually played. But it was handled with great sensitivity.
Stian was an amazing character and the way he treated Lacey was beautiful.
“Not so hard. I keep them small and perfect and give them everything they need, and they seem to thrive.”
And how I wanted Lacey to thrive.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley.
So I read the blurb but I just didn’t really fancy reading a book that featured an eating disorder.
But the reviews were so good. So many of my friends had read and loved it.
So I decided to give it a try.
Lacey suffers from anorexia and it’s crippling. It completely controls her. Every minute of every day. She’s not living, not really. She’s merely existing from one day to the next.
She gets a summer job working for Stian Blomqvist. The job or rather Mr Blomqvist gives her an element of peace and control.
It wasn’t easy reading at times. I was surprised how large a part the anorexia actually played. But it was handled with great sensitivity.
Stian was an amazing character and the way he treated Lacey was beautiful.
“Not so hard. I keep them small and perfect and give them everything they need, and they seem to thrive.”
And how I wanted Lacey to thrive.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley.
April 28, 2022
I enjoyed this so much. Age Gap, office Romance, daddy kink, and BDSM used in a healing circumstance. The relationship does not fix the heroine, but it does give her a safe space, free from judging.
Stian is so sweet with her and is an amazing Daddy. Ugh!!! So good.
5 stars
4 on the spice scale
TW for Anorexia and EDs.
Stian is so sweet with her and is an amazing Daddy. Ugh!!! So good.
5 stars
4 on the spice scale
TW for Anorexia and EDs.
July 9, 2019
3.5* and spoilers ahead
This book took me to some unexpected places but I couldn't put it down until I'd read the very last word.
I've deleted this review 4 times and rewritten it over but in the end I just don't know what to say. This wasn't a comfortable read in the latter half of the book. I don't know the struggle of anorexics but this came across as real to me. There was no easy "cure" there were instead triumphs and losses, ups and downs,tears and smiles and lots of disappointment on the road to recovery. The h stumbled a few times, but she was resilient. There were some heartbreaking moments, times I teared up and moments where I feared things wouldn't work out as I hoped but in the end they persevered. The H started off seeming as arrogant but he was one of the most devoted I've read in a while. This was my first read by this author and while I won't say I'll reread it it truly was a unique and interesting read.
I'd have liked to know when or why or what caused the h to be this way. Maybe there wasn't an exact reason but I'd have liked to know something.
I'd have also liked to see her a few years later, we do see them get married but I'm not quite satisfied
BDSM -spanking ,tears and such
Daddy play- this was done just as I like it,not as a daddy/lg scenario but more as a term of address
Role play
H was 15 years older than h
Anorexia which led to the h being warded and took a scary turn at times
Virgin h- definitely believable in this instance
Experienced H - he didn't appear to be a manwhore and was 1000% committed to the h
This book took me to some unexpected places but I couldn't put it down until I'd read the very last word.
I've deleted this review 4 times and rewritten it over but in the end I just don't know what to say. This wasn't a comfortable read in the latter half of the book. I don't know the struggle of anorexics but this came across as real to me. There was no easy "cure" there were instead triumphs and losses, ups and downs,tears and smiles and lots of disappointment on the road to recovery. The h stumbled a few times, but she was resilient. There were some heartbreaking moments, times I teared up and moments where I feared things wouldn't work out as I hoped but in the end they persevered. The H started off seeming as arrogant but he was one of the most devoted I've read in a while. This was my first read by this author and while I won't say I'll reread it it truly was a unique and interesting read.
I'd have liked to know when or why or what caused the h to be this way. Maybe there wasn't an exact reason but I'd have liked to know something.
I'd have also liked to see her a few years later, we do see them get married but I'm not quite satisfied
BDSM -spanking ,tears and such
Daddy play- this was done just as I like it,not as a daddy/lg scenario but more as a term of address
Role play
H was 15 years older than h
Anorexia which led to the h being warded and took a scary turn at times
Virgin h- definitely believable in this instance
Experienced H - he didn't appear to be a manwhore and was 1000% committed to the h
June 29, 2019
Four stars for Lacey and Stian 💕!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
"Control Freak" is the first book I've read by Brianna Hale and I liked it 💕.
This book is about anorexia and impossible love.
Lacey and Stian relationship was hard. Lacey's anorexia made her unhappy and she was thinking that she doesn't deserve Stian and his love. But Stian was persistent and show her that anorexia can't control her.
If you love reading heartbreaking romance books, this book is for you 🙂!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
"Control Freak" is the first book I've read by Brianna Hale and I liked it 💕.
This book is about anorexia and impossible love.
Lacey and Stian relationship was hard. Lacey's anorexia made her unhappy and she was thinking that she doesn't deserve Stian and his love. But Stian was persistent and show her that anorexia can't control her.
If you love reading heartbreaking romance books, this book is for you 🙂!
June 27, 2019
Let me be clear, we all need a Daddy Stian in our lives!
In Control Freak, Brianna Hale delivers an intense, steamy and emotionally deep story. Stian and Lacey's passionate and unconventional relationship simply felt right. Stian is the perfect swoon-worthy/panty melting/ Daddy Dom. He was amazing, caring and protective of Lacey. He supported her in her darkest moments, listening, seeing her.
“I’m rough with your body sometimes, but I’ll always be gentle with your soul. She bruises far more easily.”
Lacey's strength and fight, hope and despair touched me. I particularly loved the surrender she craves and the control she both exerts to the extreme on her body and relinquishes when she is with Stian. Her disease was remarkably approached, with a realism I appreciated.
“Hope’s something healthy people hold up like some sort of trophy. Well, congratulations [...] for having hope. I hope you’ll be very happy together.”
Steamy and raw, sweet and desperate, this read has everything to keep you captivated. Enjoy!
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED AN ARC COPY OF THIS BOOK. THANK YOU!!!
In Control Freak, Brianna Hale delivers an intense, steamy and emotionally deep story. Stian and Lacey's passionate and unconventional relationship simply felt right. Stian is the perfect swoon-worthy/panty melting/ Daddy Dom. He was amazing, caring and protective of Lacey. He supported her in her darkest moments, listening, seeing her.
“I’m rough with your body sometimes, but I’ll always be gentle with your soul. She bruises far more easily.”
Lacey's strength and fight, hope and despair touched me. I particularly loved the surrender she craves and the control she both exerts to the extreme on her body and relinquishes when she is with Stian. Her disease was remarkably approached, with a realism I appreciated.
“Hope’s something healthy people hold up like some sort of trophy. Well, congratulations [...] for having hope. I hope you’ll be very happy together.”
Steamy and raw, sweet and desperate, this read has everything to keep you captivated. Enjoy!
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED AN ARC COPY OF THIS BOOK. THANK YOU!!!
July 2, 2019
4.5 stars ❤️
I really enjoyed this one, for a number of reasons. It was a simple love story with one main detail- the heroine’s struggle with anorexia. The daddy part wasn’t over the top, and the age gap wasn’t either- 25 vs. 39. Lacey did seem younger because of her struggles, but as the book stresses, it wasn’t her fault. I was really impressed with how the author approached a sensitive topic that affects so many people. I’m not ashamed to say that I learned even more about the disease than I already knew. Stian was a fantastic and understanding hero, which was easy to believe because he was older. If he would’ve been a twenty-something, I would’ve maybe rolled my eyes at the fact that he always seemed to know what to say and how to act. The BDSM elements fit into the story well because it wasn’t hard to see why Lacey would want to give up control & get out of her head for a while. I recommend this story to anyone that believes that there’s someone for everyone, even for people that given up hope 💕
I really enjoyed this one, for a number of reasons. It was a simple love story with one main detail- the heroine’s struggle with anorexia. The daddy part wasn’t over the top, and the age gap wasn’t either- 25 vs. 39. Lacey did seem younger because of her struggles, but as the book stresses, it wasn’t her fault. I was really impressed with how the author approached a sensitive topic that affects so many people. I’m not ashamed to say that I learned even more about the disease than I already knew. Stian was a fantastic and understanding hero, which was easy to believe because he was older. If he would’ve been a twenty-something, I would’ve maybe rolled my eyes at the fact that he always seemed to know what to say and how to act. The BDSM elements fit into the story well because it wasn’t hard to see why Lacey would want to give up control & get out of her head for a while. I recommend this story to anyone that believes that there’s someone for everyone, even for people that given up hope 💕
June 19, 2019
ARC received for review
Stian is bossy and Lacey is a wimp. Plus the whole story was just weird.
Stian is bossy and Lacey is a wimp. Plus the whole story was just weird.
Read
July 2, 2019Wont be rating because I only got halfway through this short book.
I stopped because the heroine was a 25 year old virgin.
Like, stop. Just stop. 🙄🙄🙄🙄
I stopped because the heroine was a 25 year old virgin.
Like, stop. Just stop. 🙄🙄🙄🙄
not-interested
July 2, 2019Oh my patience... the bdsm again? gzuis genesio… isso e coisa do passado. Please, make it stop these books from appearing on my time line. It's so annoying. And this from the blurb itself: "This daddy isn’t going to pat her on the head and tell her she’s a good girl for nothing. Especially not when she’s spinning out of control." DADDY?? REALLY? EWWWWW 🤢🤮🤮🤮🤮
August 12, 2021
KU READ
My love for Brianna's books is endless. Legit. This might be top 2 of my favorite reads by her. Loved this story so much! My heart was in it all the way through!
My love for Brianna's books is endless. Legit. This might be top 2 of my favorite reads by her. Loved this story so much! My heart was in it all the way through!
April 12, 2023
Control Freak was a really interesting romance. Boss/employee, age gap(fifteen years) and Dom/Sub tropes.
What I liked about this story was the relationship between Lacey and Stian. She’s anorexic but recovering still it’s something she’ll battle the rest of her life. The sexual relationship between the two of them gave her reprieve from the toxic voice in her head. It was an interesting and realistic take on how it could help Lacey and in the beginning it did. Stian was an incredible hero who was aware of Lacey and her struggles. The chemistry was good and the sex amazing. The only thing that didn’t work for me was the daddy kink but that’s a personal preference.
A great story but there was too much inner monologue. Fast paced which worked well. So overall an okay story.
What I liked about this story was the relationship between Lacey and Stian. She’s anorexic but recovering still it’s something she’ll battle the rest of her life. The sexual relationship between the two of them gave her reprieve from the toxic voice in her head. It was an interesting and realistic take on how it could help Lacey and in the beginning it did. Stian was an incredible hero who was aware of Lacey and her struggles. The chemistry was good and the sex amazing. The only thing that didn’t work for me was the daddy kink but that’s a personal preference.
A great story but there was too much inner monologue. Fast paced which worked well. So overall an okay story.
June 24, 2019
Sadly, there just wasn’t enough character development for me to really enjoy this book. I should have figured that would be the case, seeing as though the book is less than 200 pages long. The romance also happens way too quickly for my liking (about 30% in) and that alone is enough to ruin a book for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2019
I was expecting some hot kink and a good story. What I got was completely different but soooo gooood!!!
Control Freak is a deep, emotional read that pulls at your heart strings and although at times it does get a little dark and a whole lot heartbreaking, it was also hopeful, sweet and romantic. Lacey and Stian were a great couple that I couldn’t help but love and root for. They definitely have real life obstacles to overcome but their love and devotion to each other was the highlight of the story.
Still in a sensitive stage of her recovery, Lacey meets Stian when her father recommends her for the job as Stian’s assistant. She’s instantly drawn to the older man, his calm demeanor and his strong confident presence soothes her. She finds it easy to slip into her submissive role around him and she feels safe whenever he is around. It was supposed to be a secret infatuation but when she confesses her feelings to him, everything changes.
Equally as drawn to her, Stian feels his protectiveness emerge whenever he is near Lacey. He’s hypersensitive to her moods and her vulnerability and knows that he can be the support system she needs if she’ll take a chance on him. On them. Stian never does anything by half measure and when he pursues Lacey he doesn’t pull his punches.
Their connection is something instant and all-consuming. But recovery isn’t an easy path to travel and Lacey struggles with a life threatening relapse that shakes the very new, but no less strong, bond she has with Stian.
This love story has a beautiful message of hope, of love and commitment and never giving up. It was a really sweet love story. The D/s and Dd/lg elements were there but didn’t overwhelm the main plot. I liked that Lacey and Stian counter balanced each other and their D/s roles seemed natural to them both. Stian as a Daddy Dom and Lacey as a Little just clicked and added another layer to their relationship. It wasn’t all rainbows and fluffy kittens. Its was gritty and raw but no less beautiful.
Favorite Line:
Memorable Moments: There were a lot of heart wrenching moments in this story and I wont lie, I shed a tear or two at some really poignant ones. The one that stands out must to me was when Stian visits Lacey at home and she confesses her deepest fears and her loss of hope. It was one of the most emotionally charged scenes in the book. His response and his actions made me root for him and for them both to make it, as a team.
Would I recommend? I liked this sweet story, it was hopeful and romantic and unique. It definitely gave me all the feels and I loved the ending *sigh* Definitely recommend it.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
Control Freak is a deep, emotional read that pulls at your heart strings and although at times it does get a little dark and a whole lot heartbreaking, it was also hopeful, sweet and romantic. Lacey and Stian were a great couple that I couldn’t help but love and root for. They definitely have real life obstacles to overcome but their love and devotion to each other was the highlight of the story.
Still in a sensitive stage of her recovery, Lacey meets Stian when her father recommends her for the job as Stian’s assistant. She’s instantly drawn to the older man, his calm demeanor and his strong confident presence soothes her. She finds it easy to slip into her submissive role around him and she feels safe whenever he is around. It was supposed to be a secret infatuation but when she confesses her feelings to him, everything changes.
Equally as drawn to her, Stian feels his protectiveness emerge whenever he is near Lacey. He’s hypersensitive to her moods and her vulnerability and knows that he can be the support system she needs if she’ll take a chance on him. On them. Stian never does anything by half measure and when he pursues Lacey he doesn’t pull his punches.
Their connection is something instant and all-consuming. But recovery isn’t an easy path to travel and Lacey struggles with a life threatening relapse that shakes the very new, but no less strong, bond she has with Stian.
This love story has a beautiful message of hope, of love and commitment and never giving up. It was a really sweet love story. The D/s and Dd/lg elements were there but didn’t overwhelm the main plot. I liked that Lacey and Stian counter balanced each other and their D/s roles seemed natural to them both. Stian as a Daddy Dom and Lacey as a Little just clicked and added another layer to their relationship. It wasn’t all rainbows and fluffy kittens. Its was gritty and raw but no less beautiful.
Favorite Line:
I like to be wanted, and I fucking love to be needed. ~ Stian
Memorable Moments: There were a lot of heart wrenching moments in this story and I wont lie, I shed a tear or two at some really poignant ones. The one that stands out must to me was when Stian visits Lacey at home and she confesses her deepest fears and her loss of hope. It was one of the most emotionally charged scenes in the book. His response and his actions made me root for him and for them both to make it, as a team.
Would I recommend? I liked this sweet story, it was hopeful and romantic and unique. It definitely gave me all the feels and I loved the ending *sigh* Definitely recommend it.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
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