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Submissive Lies
Thomas was everything a woman should want. Smart, sweet, gorgeous... but that first spark I’d felt between us had fizzled. There’s something wrong with me, something broken. Or... at least I thought it was broken. Then I met Steve. We went from spark to raging inferno with one flick of his eyebrow, one dangerous smile, and now all I can think about is the side of myself I’d tried so hard to lock away. He’s everything Thomas isn’t. He’s everything I’ve been missing. Fire and passion... and dominance. If I was a good girl, a vanilla girl, I could have been happy with Thomas. But now that I’ve met Steve, I know that’s impossible.
My name is Jen. I am a submissive.
I’ve deceived everyone around me about who I am, and I’ve lied to myself. But this time I won’t.
This time I will choose happiness... even if it hurts.
My name is Jen. I am a submissive.
I’ve deceived everyone around me about who I am, and I’ve lied to myself. But this time I won’t.
This time I will choose happiness... even if it hurts.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 10, 2019
86 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
About the author
Shane Starrett
15 books831 followersUSA Today bestselling author Shane Starrett loves to take his readers into the (sometimes) deeply dark but always seductive worlds of strong women and sinful romance. With a focus on BDSM themes, he explores the unique dynamics which take place between partners living 'in the lifestyle,' with an emphasis on the beauty and inherent strength of the bonds created between people who aren't afraid to tap into their kinky sides. With attention to themes such as trust, communication, understanding, and compromise (and always a dash of humor), Shane loves to explore the ever shifting but always fascinating forces at work between people falling into or already in love.
When he isn’t writing on those subjects (which isn’t often), he can be found in his Texas home with his wife of thirty-three years, either working in his shop, cooking, or daydreaming about another steamy, sexy story.
When he isn’t writing on those subjects (which isn’t often), he can be found in his Texas home with his wife of thirty-three years, either working in his shop, cooking, or daydreaming about another steamy, sexy story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
August 22, 2020
This is this author’s debut novel and I enjoyed it. Jen is a submissive in a vanilla relationship with a nice guy and it isn’t working for her.
On a work trip she meets Steve (ugh I hate that name for some reason, no offense) and he is everything in a Dom that Jen wants. There is one little problem though, and that’s that Jen is already in a relationship with someone else.
So the main conflict resides mainly in Jen’s inner-monologue and she eventually gets caught as many cheaters do. She hurts two good men and she has to woman up and quit lying to herself. There’s some really hot scenes with Jen and Steve. It’s impossible not to feel bad for Thomas, her boyfriend. Jen is not a bad person, and it comes through that she truly has a conscience. She’s the victim of her own bad decisions but her character evolves and she owns up to her mistakes. I loved Steve’s character!
On a work trip she meets Steve (ugh I hate that name for some reason, no offense) and he is everything in a Dom that Jen wants. There is one little problem though, and that’s that Jen is already in a relationship with someone else.
So the main conflict resides mainly in Jen’s inner-monologue and she eventually gets caught as many cheaters do. She hurts two good men and she has to woman up and quit lying to herself. There’s some really hot scenes with Jen and Steve. It’s impossible not to feel bad for Thomas, her boyfriend. Jen is not a bad person, and it comes through that she truly has a conscience. She’s the victim of her own bad decisions but her character evolves and she owns up to her mistakes. I loved Steve’s character!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2019
Dynamic Debut Author & Story!!
Submissive Lies is a fantastic debut novel from start to finish. Mr. Starrett has written a wonderful story about the damage created when we lie to ourselves, other people, and ultimately coming to terms with those lies.
Mr. Starrett has captured the true essence of a D/s relationship with Steve and Jen. As with any couple, the foundation of a long-lasting, meaningful, relationship must be built on trust and communication. Submissive Lies shows us the repercussions and eventual outcome/resolution when these two key elements are missing from the very beginning.
The story revolves around Jen, Thomas, and Steve and the havoc that Jen creates with her lies to herself and others. There were moments in the story where all I wanted to do was SMACK the crap out of Jen and other times when I just wanted to hold her when she cried. The hurt and pain she leaves in her wake is so palpable that you wonder how anyone is going to survive without permanent damage.
The brilliance of this story is that Mr. Starrett has written certain parts from a woman’s POV and he has captured it perfectly IMO. This can be a slippery slope for any author regardless of gender and if they don’t get it right, you end up with a convoluted mess. Well, that is not the case here with this thrilling story. Mr. Starrett’s novel is written in such a way that one would suspect he speaks from experience. It has all the elements I look for in a Contemporary Romance; believable characters, hot sex, and an edge-of-your-seat plot.
If you are looking for a well written book that exemplifies the subtleties and nuances of relationships, then I highly recommend this debut release. Mr. Starrett is an excellent storyteller, a breath of fresh air that won’t leave you disappointed. I for one will be following his career closely and cannot wait to see what he gives us next!!
Well done, “Dude.” Well done.
Submissive Lies is a fantastic debut novel from start to finish. Mr. Starrett has written a wonderful story about the damage created when we lie to ourselves, other people, and ultimately coming to terms with those lies.
Mr. Starrett has captured the true essence of a D/s relationship with Steve and Jen. As with any couple, the foundation of a long-lasting, meaningful, relationship must be built on trust and communication. Submissive Lies shows us the repercussions and eventual outcome/resolution when these two key elements are missing from the very beginning.
The story revolves around Jen, Thomas, and Steve and the havoc that Jen creates with her lies to herself and others. There were moments in the story where all I wanted to do was SMACK the crap out of Jen and other times when I just wanted to hold her when she cried. The hurt and pain she leaves in her wake is so palpable that you wonder how anyone is going to survive without permanent damage.
The brilliance of this story is that Mr. Starrett has written certain parts from a woman’s POV and he has captured it perfectly IMO. This can be a slippery slope for any author regardless of gender and if they don’t get it right, you end up with a convoluted mess. Well, that is not the case here with this thrilling story. Mr. Starrett’s novel is written in such a way that one would suspect he speaks from experience. It has all the elements I look for in a Contemporary Romance; believable characters, hot sex, and an edge-of-your-seat plot.
If you are looking for a well written book that exemplifies the subtleties and nuances of relationships, then I highly recommend this debut release. Mr. Starrett is an excellent storyteller, a breath of fresh air that won’t leave you disappointed. I for one will be following his career closely and cannot wait to see what he gives us next!!
Well done, “Dude.” Well done.
August 30, 2019
A fabulous debut from a gifted author!
“Submissive Lies” stands out among other works in the same genre thanks to its psychological aspect, which, through inner dialogues, helps the reader easily understand and sympathize with the main heroine, Jen. Speaking of, writing a leading character of an opposite sex is never an easy feat, and Mr. Starret did an admirable job with Jen. Nothing about her personality or behavior sounded “off” to me, and such a deep understanding of female psychology definitely deserves separate commendation. Jen is a complex heroine, very likable despite the doubtful choice she makes (no spoilers here, so you can read for yourselves), and easy to root for. I really enjoyed “getting to know” her as a person, and sympathetic characters to which I can relate mean a big deal to me as a reader.
The plot revolves mostly around Jen, her boyfriend Thomas with whom she doesn’t feel a connection due to her sexual preferences, and Jen’s new acquaintance Steve, who is basically everything she was looking for. Steve, by the way, was another character whom I instantly liked; he’s not your typical romance domineering cocky boy (the type that I find incredibly annoying, to be honest) but instead, a really nice guy who doesn’t think twice to ask a woman’s opinion on the work he’s doing for her and who acts like a total gentleman in every situation. In general, he was a breath of fresh air as compared to most of the characters that I’d encountered in the same genre.
Overall, it was a sizzling hot story of personal discovery, of staying true to oneself, of being a human and making mistakes and forgiving oneself and others for such mistakes. I read it in a course of two days because I didn’t want to put it down. A really well-written story. Highly recommended to all fans of the genre!
“Submissive Lies” stands out among other works in the same genre thanks to its psychological aspect, which, through inner dialogues, helps the reader easily understand and sympathize with the main heroine, Jen. Speaking of, writing a leading character of an opposite sex is never an easy feat, and Mr. Starret did an admirable job with Jen. Nothing about her personality or behavior sounded “off” to me, and such a deep understanding of female psychology definitely deserves separate commendation. Jen is a complex heroine, very likable despite the doubtful choice she makes (no spoilers here, so you can read for yourselves), and easy to root for. I really enjoyed “getting to know” her as a person, and sympathetic characters to which I can relate mean a big deal to me as a reader.
The plot revolves mostly around Jen, her boyfriend Thomas with whom she doesn’t feel a connection due to her sexual preferences, and Jen’s new acquaintance Steve, who is basically everything she was looking for. Steve, by the way, was another character whom I instantly liked; he’s not your typical romance domineering cocky boy (the type that I find incredibly annoying, to be honest) but instead, a really nice guy who doesn’t think twice to ask a woman’s opinion on the work he’s doing for her and who acts like a total gentleman in every situation. In general, he was a breath of fresh air as compared to most of the characters that I’d encountered in the same genre.
Overall, it was a sizzling hot story of personal discovery, of staying true to oneself, of being a human and making mistakes and forgiving oneself and others for such mistakes. I read it in a course of two days because I didn’t want to put it down. A really well-written story. Highly recommended to all fans of the genre!
January 2, 2020
Well that was great!
I haven't been reading romance long and I haven't read many male romance authors. I think the character of Jen is brilliantly realised here and I felt for her, even as she made a string of poor choices which came back to bite her you-know-where.
These characters felt real to me. I loved the angst and the insight into D/s relationships.
Very recommended.
4.5 stars
I haven't been reading romance long and I haven't read many male romance authors. I think the character of Jen is brilliantly realised here and I felt for her, even as she made a string of poor choices which came back to bite her you-know-where.
These characters felt real to me. I loved the angst and the insight into D/s relationships.
Very recommended.
4.5 stars
May 10, 2020
Highly Recommend!
Shane Starrett, and the first of his books that I have read, Submissive Lies, creates a bridge of understanding.
Understanding the words we share with others are so very important. The actions we choose to take provide a path we may feel we have to follow. The truth we adhere to can sustain our heart and our soul.
This book shares an intimate look at the destruction, when you don’t trust your own truth, and the joy that can be had when you are able to forge through your own heart’s pain, to a place of clarity.
D/s in nature, this story moves beyond a lifestyle to a seeing, hearing, feeling, BREATHING creation that is captivating and crushing. It is like a pulsating heart. It pounds in your chest, breaking at times, or inflates and is ready to soar with joy
Be warned. It is intense. But isn’t that what living really should be? Very nice, Mr. Starrett.
Shane Starrett, and the first of his books that I have read, Submissive Lies, creates a bridge of understanding.
Understanding the words we share with others are so very important. The actions we choose to take provide a path we may feel we have to follow. The truth we adhere to can sustain our heart and our soul.
This book shares an intimate look at the destruction, when you don’t trust your own truth, and the joy that can be had when you are able to forge through your own heart’s pain, to a place of clarity.
D/s in nature, this story moves beyond a lifestyle to a seeing, hearing, feeling, BREATHING creation that is captivating and crushing. It is like a pulsating heart. It pounds in your chest, breaking at times, or inflates and is ready to soar with joy
Be warned. It is intense. But isn’t that what living really should be? Very nice, Mr. Starrett.
August 15, 2019
What a wonderful first to have under your belt!
A debut author, male, bdsm based...sounds like a great time!
Submissive Lies follows a female POV from a male author. Nice twist, and well done! Her "arguementative side" is what I loved most about Jen. Her inner dialogue was funny, witty, sassy and a huge part of the story! (for me anyways)
While the beginning was a bit long winded (and I can't count the number of times Jen complained to herself about what she wanted) once she got on the road it picked up... and that's where the gettin' was good. Her relationship with Steve was hot af.
I thought the characters were really well done. The storyline was entertaining, the D/s was so hot, and the ending was okay. An all around engaging read, and a really good debut. Hope to see more from Mr Starrett soon!
A debut author, male, bdsm based...sounds like a great time!
Submissive Lies follows a female POV from a male author. Nice twist, and well done! Her "arguementative side" is what I loved most about Jen. Her inner dialogue was funny, witty, sassy and a huge part of the story! (for me anyways)
While the beginning was a bit long winded (and I can't count the number of times Jen complained to herself about what she wanted) once she got on the road it picked up... and that's where the gettin' was good. Her relationship with Steve was hot af.
I thought the characters were really well done. The storyline was entertaining, the D/s was so hot, and the ending was okay. An all around engaging read, and a really good debut. Hope to see more from Mr Starrett soon!
August 11, 2019
Wow!... seriously wow.
Where did this author come from? I need to know more, I need more books like this one!!
This was fantastic... actually it was better than fantastic.
I often struggle with this trope (bdsm). Not because I’m against it, quite the opposite actually... I love it when I find an author that knows their stuff, they know what they are writing about and they make it realistic. Bdsm romances can be ripped a part, and look at in all kinds of ways, depending on how the author has written it out.
Well thus author has nailed it, in my opinion. I absolutely loved it. It holds all the right elements and the character is perfect. It’s told as a woman’s POV, and her name is Jennifer, so many things were relatable when it came this character. She lives a somewhat normal life, and has been hurt by someone in her past, which ultimately turns in to a lie, a lie so big that it’s enough to take over her life as it has, but as the book progresses, so does she, she grows, her story grows, and her way in finding herself gets deeper. The deeper I got into the plot, more addicted I got. I couldn’t put it down. This whole story was captivating. I got lost in it. It felt so real. The raw emotions, the lies, the betrays, the self discovery. The fact that it’s a male author, writing a female POV, it compel eye spun me out on how much the author got inside my own head. It’s a read that I’ll be sure as hell visiting again!
I’m not sure where this author came from but I am now on the look out for his next book! I can’t wait to see what else he has up his sleeve.
5 glowing stars!
Where did this author come from? I need to know more, I need more books like this one!!
This was fantastic... actually it was better than fantastic.
I often struggle with this trope (bdsm). Not because I’m against it, quite the opposite actually... I love it when I find an author that knows their stuff, they know what they are writing about and they make it realistic. Bdsm romances can be ripped a part, and look at in all kinds of ways, depending on how the author has written it out.
Well thus author has nailed it, in my opinion. I absolutely loved it. It holds all the right elements and the character is perfect. It’s told as a woman’s POV, and her name is Jennifer, so many things were relatable when it came this character. She lives a somewhat normal life, and has been hurt by someone in her past, which ultimately turns in to a lie, a lie so big that it’s enough to take over her life as it has, but as the book progresses, so does she, she grows, her story grows, and her way in finding herself gets deeper. The deeper I got into the plot, more addicted I got. I couldn’t put it down. This whole story was captivating. I got lost in it. It felt so real. The raw emotions, the lies, the betrays, the self discovery. The fact that it’s a male author, writing a female POV, it compel eye spun me out on how much the author got inside my own head. It’s a read that I’ll be sure as hell visiting again!
I’m not sure where this author came from but I am now on the look out for his next book! I can’t wait to see what else he has up his sleeve.
5 glowing stars!
August 30, 2019
4.4 stars
One of my favorite authors recommended this author to me so I knew that she would not steer me wrong. I was right. This book was fantastic. The fact that it was a debut book is mindblowing. I was in awe that he wrote a story from a female perspective. So often there is a lack of cohesiveness in stories in which males try to write in a way that truly expresses emotions or actions the way that a woman does. This is not me making a stereotypical comment. This is just more often than naught a fact, that whether or not it is fair there is a distinct difference in what makes men and women different. However, This author not only did it but he excelled at it.
The writing style is different than I was expecting. It took me a little bit to get used to the stream of conscious type moments that Jen had a large portion of this book. Even though I could completely relate to Jen in so many ways. To the point that at times I felt like I was her or had found myself in similar situations. This was both unnerving as it was rewarding to see how far I have come. It reminded me of the importance of trust; whether that be with me, others, or just as the most important factor in a Dominant and Submissive relationship.
Fantastic setting, characters, realistic portrayal of BDSM, and overall story have me very excited to keep this author on my watchlist for future releases. My only real complaint with this story was how fast the ending came. While it did pave the way for growth and showing how the truth really will set you free in starting new things there was just something that I really wanted more of.
One of my favorite authors recommended this author to me so I knew that she would not steer me wrong. I was right. This book was fantastic. The fact that it was a debut book is mindblowing. I was in awe that he wrote a story from a female perspective. So often there is a lack of cohesiveness in stories in which males try to write in a way that truly expresses emotions or actions the way that a woman does. This is not me making a stereotypical comment. This is just more often than naught a fact, that whether or not it is fair there is a distinct difference in what makes men and women different. However, This author not only did it but he excelled at it.
The writing style is different than I was expecting. It took me a little bit to get used to the stream of conscious type moments that Jen had a large portion of this book. Even though I could completely relate to Jen in so many ways. To the point that at times I felt like I was her or had found myself in similar situations. This was both unnerving as it was rewarding to see how far I have come. It reminded me of the importance of trust; whether that be with me, others, or just as the most important factor in a Dominant and Submissive relationship.
Fantastic setting, characters, realistic portrayal of BDSM, and overall story have me very excited to keep this author on my watchlist for future releases. My only real complaint with this story was how fast the ending came. While it did pave the way for growth and showing how the truth really will set you free in starting new things there was just something that I really wanted more of.
August 13, 2019
In this story we have Jen, who lies to herself and her significant others. The lies are told innocently enough but still painful to all involved. Mostly, we get to hear through self criticism, Jen's own personal lies. The pain that her lies cause just might be irriepairable. There is a lot of inner dialogue that does get to be a bit too much at times, but they aren't unbelieveable as I know that is exactly what we do to ourselves as we try to justify our feelings or understand them as we reflect. Jen is a submissive that, through her self denial, tries to live a vanilla life. That cannot last forever and it ends when she meets Steve, a Dom who fits Jen perfectly if it wasn't for her lies. I couldn't wait for Jen to finally stop her lies to herself and those that mattered in her life. In the end, all that inner dialogue and self doubt have to be dealt with in order to live the life Jen wants for herself but is so hard to do. I enjoyed this first book of this author's and I look forward to see what he comes out with next!
August 6, 2019
This is a great first novel.
There's everything here. D/s, vanilla, betrayal, heartbreak, denial, new beginnings, and loads of scorching dominance, and lubricating submission.
The female part is written with great empathy, especially her inner dialog, by a male author of all people!
Although it gets tedious in it's accuracy after a while, most of us will know the feeling of "shut up and get over yourself". Eye-roll!
And she's infuriatingly adept in keeping her mouth shut when she shouldn't.
Both male parts are equally likeable although they are vastly different. And of course there's the bad guy.
The beginning chapters of the book could do with some tightening. They are extremely "wordy". But from about the half-point the story has a nice pace and some surprise twists.
Keep the stories coming Mr Starrett.
There's everything here. D/s, vanilla, betrayal, heartbreak, denial, new beginnings, and loads of scorching dominance, and lubricating submission.
The female part is written with great empathy, especially her inner dialog, by a male author of all people!
Although it gets tedious in it's accuracy after a while, most of us will know the feeling of "shut up and get over yourself". Eye-roll!
And she's infuriatingly adept in keeping her mouth shut when she shouldn't.
Both male parts are equally likeable although they are vastly different. And of course there's the bad guy.
The beginning chapters of the book could do with some tightening. They are extremely "wordy". But from about the half-point the story has a nice pace and some surprise twists.
Keep the stories coming Mr Starrett.
August 13, 2019
In this debut novel, I was instantly sucked into a world of lies, betrayal, self doubt, heartbreak. For a male author to write such a riveting character just blew me away, and not because it was Shane Starrett who wrote this. It was HOW he wrote it!!! You can feel all her pain, all her emotions throughout the story as she struggles until it all comes to a head!!! Each character was unique and all I can honestly say is I want more!!! Please, I want more!!!!! Get this book and make sure you have plenty of tissue on hand, or like me, a crying towel.
January 15, 2020
On My Gawd !!!
This story really hit home for me. When reading the first few chapters i had to keep taking deep breaths because I felt as if I was reading my own autobiography. If you have ever been with someone who ..Did you wrong, or where you've tried to be someone your not, fought your own demons and have conversations with yourself whether out loud or in your own head (and we've all been there at one time or another) then you definitely need to read this book. Shane Starrett amazing job!! Congratulations on your 1st novel.
This story really hit home for me. When reading the first few chapters i had to keep taking deep breaths because I felt as if I was reading my own autobiography. If you have ever been with someone who ..Did you wrong, or where you've tried to be someone your not, fought your own demons and have conversations with yourself whether out loud or in your own head (and we've all been there at one time or another) then you definitely need to read this book. Shane Starrett amazing job!! Congratulations on your 1st novel.
August 10, 2019
I’m quite certain that I didn’t like this story. The characters were brilliant. Well thought out. And so damn realistic, it threw me out of my comfort zone and into a vast pit of …gags…FEELINGS that left me desperate for the safety of fantasy. And yet, I kept reading. Over and over, my insides were shredded, twisted, turned around. And yet, I kept reading. More than once, I verbalized my thoughts aloud. I kept grumbling at my Kindle every time Jen wouldn’t do the right thing. That grumbling took the form of talking to my Kindle (it clearly wasn’t me talking to myself) along the lines of: “No-no-no-no! Don’t do that! Quit that negative self-talk! Tell the truth, you’ll feel better! Do the right thing! No!” Admittedly, I sounded a bit like my own cheerleader and really didn’t have an appropriate snarky response to questions from those around me as to who I was talking to other than, “Shhh, I’m reading.” The scenes between Steve and Jen were tangible, so much so, I could feel the myriad of emotions Jen went through (yes, more going on with the feelings) and the utter despondency that comes with betrayal—to herself. This story twisted me up into such an emotional wreck, I was desperate for a happily ever after.
I wouldn’t change a thing.
This is Shane Starrett’s debut novel and for a man supposedly raised by wolves (photographic evidence is required), he has excellent skill with the words.
Buy the book.
I wouldn’t change a thing.
This is Shane Starrett’s debut novel and for a man supposedly raised by wolves (photographic evidence is required), he has excellent skill with the words.
Buy the book.
August 30, 2019
2.5 Stars
Reviewed by Allyson
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night with Books Blog
Submissive nature and content was on par and addictive!
Lies can ruin the ground work in any given relationship, it can ultimately damage our mind sets when we start living those lies full on and become one with them. Within Submissive Lies by Shane Starrett, I believe the author captured the D/s attitude, emotions and dynamics to a perfect 'T', but for the whole novel itself... I think the amount of details and description was a bit overdone.
Submissive Lies revolves around Thomas, Jen and Steve; a story of being strong enough to follow your needs and desires in hopes that you can return to the full potential you once were. Overcoming past heartache from cheating and learning to trust again, as all D/s relationships must rely on trust and communication.
Even though Starrett had a good outline for his debut novel, my opinion felt that he went a little overboard with the heroine's inner emotions/feelings and he truly could have reduced those pages and could have included more dialogue intake. This might be a great book for others, and I hope that is the case, however, this book did not hold my attention span for long.
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest and trustworthy review.
Reviewed by Allyson
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night with Books Blog
Submissive nature and content was on par and addictive!
Lies can ruin the ground work in any given relationship, it can ultimately damage our mind sets when we start living those lies full on and become one with them. Within Submissive Lies by Shane Starrett, I believe the author captured the D/s attitude, emotions and dynamics to a perfect 'T', but for the whole novel itself... I think the amount of details and description was a bit overdone.
Submissive Lies revolves around Thomas, Jen and Steve; a story of being strong enough to follow your needs and desires in hopes that you can return to the full potential you once were. Overcoming past heartache from cheating and learning to trust again, as all D/s relationships must rely on trust and communication.
Even though Starrett had a good outline for his debut novel, my opinion felt that he went a little overboard with the heroine's inner emotions/feelings and he truly could have reduced those pages and could have included more dialogue intake. This might be a great book for others, and I hope that is the case, however, this book did not hold my attention span for long.
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest and trustworthy review.
March 25, 2021
I'm having a hard time with my feelings about this book, but I think what it comes down to is that it was all in her head. There was not a whole lot of action. Even during the action, she was still so much in her head (or at least, that's what it seemed from the actual words on the page). Because of the story being filtered through the great psychodrama going on internally, everything was exaggerated with the heroine. She had a boyfriend, and he was just okay. He didn't excite her like her previous (cheating) boyfriend did. Sounds legit, right? But the whole crisis in the story evolves from her feeling "meh" about her boyfriend. She thinks it's because she was denying who she really was and because she didn't communicate with her bf, but I really feel like she was dragging out a melodrama of her own creating. So she likes some kink. Her new bf does not appear to. That set of facts engendered a long story whereby everything was ramped up to 11 and everyone was hurt by everyone else. I'm seeing a lot of love for this story, and I'm glad other people enjoyed it. I guess I was waiting the story to develop in a way that it simply didn't. No harm, no foul - not for me.
August 17, 2019
Submissive Lies is the first book that I have read by Shane Starrett and this is his debut romance.
Jennifer Boyd is a submissive. She broke up with her boyfriend/Sir after finding him with another woman/submissive. Jennifer gave up her way of life after that breakup and met a “vanilla” man. Denying her true self as a submissive. While at a trade show she met another dom and she knew what she was missing in her life. This is Jennifer’s story.
I loved reading this story. You say it’s your first book but, I couldn’t tell and I read a tremendous amount of books. It shows that people aren’t perfect and we all make mistakes. This author made me feel the raw pain that Jennifer was going through. I didn’t want to put this book down and I definitely didn’t want it to end. I will be waiting to see what is what’s next for this new romance author. Good job, Mr. Starrett!!!
I got this book on Kindle Unlimited.
Jennifer Boyd is a submissive. She broke up with her boyfriend/Sir after finding him with another woman/submissive. Jennifer gave up her way of life after that breakup and met a “vanilla” man. Denying her true self as a submissive. While at a trade show she met another dom and she knew what she was missing in her life. This is Jennifer’s story.
I loved reading this story. You say it’s your first book but, I couldn’t tell and I read a tremendous amount of books. It shows that people aren’t perfect and we all make mistakes. This author made me feel the raw pain that Jennifer was going through. I didn’t want to put this book down and I definitely didn’t want it to end. I will be waiting to see what is what’s next for this new romance author. Good job, Mr. Starrett!!!
I got this book on Kindle Unlimited.
September 9, 2019
I just can't...
How do I put it into words???
This book hits all the feels and jeezums, I need an emotional timeout!!!!
On the surface, Jen and Thomas seem like the perfect happy couple...But Jen has been lying from day one and it's starting to poison her. Then there's Steve...oh mylanta, this man is just YUM. He awakens things in Jen that she's been denying and then some serious stuff goes down!!!
This might be Mr. Starrett's first published book but he better be writing some more...NOW!
If you'll excuse me, I'm going to go read some happy go lucky fluff...my emotions are raw!!!!
How do I put it into words???
This book hits all the feels and jeezums, I need an emotional timeout!!!!
On the surface, Jen and Thomas seem like the perfect happy couple...But Jen has been lying from day one and it's starting to poison her. Then there's Steve...oh mylanta, this man is just YUM. He awakens things in Jen that she's been denying and then some serious stuff goes down!!!
This might be Mr. Starrett's first published book but he better be writing some more...NOW!
If you'll excuse me, I'm going to go read some happy go lucky fluff...my emotions are raw!!!!
August 10, 2019
What a Great First Novel! This book takes us on a journey into the mind of Jennifer, our main character. She is a self sufficient modern woman who has been hurt by someone close to her. This hurt has morphed into a Giant Lie....a lie that will lead Jenn on a journey of self-discovery. Shane captures the essence of this character and allows us to see into her very mind. Told entirely from Jenn's perspective this story is captivating. I am looking forward to the next offering from this up and coming Author.
August 13, 2019
For a first time author, Shane Starrett really knocked it out of the park. He came up with a premise that is fairly unique, and a character that is really fallible and one who can be actually quite unlikeable at times, but one that is so very human and tangible.
Jennifer kinda cuts close to home sometimes, and that made me a little uncomfortable at times, but that's actually a good thing. There are a lot of things that go into Jen that made me recognize her in me or me in her or whatever.
This was a great book, and I'm looking forward to seeing what his next book brings up.
Jennifer kinda cuts close to home sometimes, and that made me a little uncomfortable at times, but that's actually a good thing. There are a lot of things that go into Jen that made me recognize her in me or me in her or whatever.
This was a great book, and I'm looking forward to seeing what his next book brings up.
August 23, 2019
Jen is a submissive but she chooses to leave that side of her life after she catches her Dom/Sir boyfriend cheating on her with another woman. She ends up with Thomas, a good guy but vanilla in the sex department. Jen eventually meets a Dom named Steve and it's just what she needs but her lies about her desires will hurt everyone. If you are triggered by cheating this book won't be for you. This story shows how lying to yourself and partners can wreck lives and leave everyone hurt. A good debut read.
August 23, 2019
Wow this is a brilliant debut book. And it was so good to read. The story revolves around Jen, Thomas and Steve. Jen is an intriguing character a natural submissive who craves a D/s relationship but can’t seem to bring herself to tell her partner Thomas. But then she meets Steve and the intense chemistry between these two us explosive! And the scenes between them are so good. I honestly had no idea that the author was a man, but he’s done such a fantastic job of writing from the perspective of a woman! Well done Sir!
August 4, 2019
SUBMISSIVE LIES .. My first reaction to this book was, oh, it's so long. As I was reading, I knew Submissive Lies wasn't going to be long enough. Mr. Starrett knows how to weave a story and I was enthralled every step of the way; I didn't want it to end and I was a sobbing mess when it did. One of the finest written books I've ever read.
August 13, 2019
Trigger warning - This book contains cheating. If this is a hard limit for you, pass this one by. If it's a soft limit, then let Mr. Starrett push your limits. I'm not usually one for cheating in stories, but it was explained, and dealt with, in a very realistic and understandable way.
Submissive Lies is a story about the lies we tell not only those around us but also to ourselves. It's about trying to live someone else's truth. It's about not dealing with something in a healthy way and the consequences of that action. It's about learning to trust yourself and others, being willing to be vulnerable, and how far someone can fly when they let go. It's an emotional journey, told from the POV of Jen, that isn't just another BDSM romance. And while those elements are there, the story is so much more.
Have you ever read a story and wondered how much of it was based on actual events vs. how much was just an author's amazing imagination? That's what this book was for me. The way Jen acts, the way she slips into her mind, the emotions she experience, and the growth she goes through as a character are totally conceivable. It's all too real and honest. Even the cheating is explained in a way that I imagine someone in that situation would explain the act to someone else. Also, I usually struggle with male romance authors because they don't always get inside a female's head in a way I can relate to. That isn't the case here. If I didn't know who the author was, I would never believe it was written by a guy. The only word I can use to describe it is believable.
Normally I would talk about how steamy, sexy, hot, and intense a novel in this genre is, and this one hit all those points, but this one really was about the emotions for me. I cried, I laughed, I worried, felt lightheaded with happiness, and fell in love with Steve right along with Jen. I wasn't just reading the story, I was living it. I am glad that it's a longer story but I was still sad when it ended. They say an author's work improves as their career progresses. If that is the case, I am very excited to see where this writing journey takes Mr. Starrett because he is off to a mind-blowing start.
Submissive Lies is a story about the lies we tell not only those around us but also to ourselves. It's about trying to live someone else's truth. It's about not dealing with something in a healthy way and the consequences of that action. It's about learning to trust yourself and others, being willing to be vulnerable, and how far someone can fly when they let go. It's an emotional journey, told from the POV of Jen, that isn't just another BDSM romance. And while those elements are there, the story is so much more.
Have you ever read a story and wondered how much of it was based on actual events vs. how much was just an author's amazing imagination? That's what this book was for me. The way Jen acts, the way she slips into her mind, the emotions she experience, and the growth she goes through as a character are totally conceivable. It's all too real and honest. Even the cheating is explained in a way that I imagine someone in that situation would explain the act to someone else. Also, I usually struggle with male romance authors because they don't always get inside a female's head in a way I can relate to. That isn't the case here. If I didn't know who the author was, I would never believe it was written by a guy. The only word I can use to describe it is believable.
Normally I would talk about how steamy, sexy, hot, and intense a novel in this genre is, and this one hit all those points, but this one really was about the emotions for me. I cried, I laughed, I worried, felt lightheaded with happiness, and fell in love with Steve right along with Jen. I wasn't just reading the story, I was living it. I am glad that it's a longer story but I was still sad when it ended. They say an author's work improves as their career progresses. If that is the case, I am very excited to see where this writing journey takes Mr. Starrett because he is off to a mind-blowing start.
August 20, 2019
ARC REVIEW
‘Submissive Lies’ was my very first book from this author and the very first book written by a male author! It is slow burn and intense, full of passion and steamy scenes!
Hard topics are subjects of this whole book, topics that might make you uncomfortable, might make you double guess your life choices and that might make you question your thoughts.
This book contains cheating but you will soon understand that, even if it makes you uncomfortable, it is necessary for the character's growth and for them to find their true selves.
Jen is a strong capable woman who’s been struggling with issues within herself and her life in general, she tries to hide her true self and her true desires. Which only make her hurt and makes her do things she wouldn’t normally do.
Thomas, her boyfriend, is an amazing guy who unfortunately can’t satisfy her and who doesn’t understand the dynamics of a BDSM lifestyle, especially with D/s relationship.
Steve is a handsome veteran, who knows what he wants and knows how to act around someone like Jen. He’s a true gentleman, an amazing man and an even more amazing Dom.
The dynamics in this book are hard and complex but the more these characters get to know their true selves, the more understanding they are. And even if it hurts, sometimes you just need to listen and understand instead of fight and ruin nice things.
This is a book for people who have the courage to open up and admit when they are lost. For those who care about wellbeing and doing whatever it takes to reach it.
Very detailed and interesting this book will capture your attention as soon as you start reading and you won’t want to do anything else but find out how this will end.
‘Submissive Lies’ was my very first book from this author and the very first book written by a male author! It is slow burn and intense, full of passion and steamy scenes!
Hard topics are subjects of this whole book, topics that might make you uncomfortable, might make you double guess your life choices and that might make you question your thoughts.
This book contains cheating but you will soon understand that, even if it makes you uncomfortable, it is necessary for the character's growth and for them to find their true selves.
Jen is a strong capable woman who’s been struggling with issues within herself and her life in general, she tries to hide her true self and her true desires. Which only make her hurt and makes her do things she wouldn’t normally do.
Thomas, her boyfriend, is an amazing guy who unfortunately can’t satisfy her and who doesn’t understand the dynamics of a BDSM lifestyle, especially with D/s relationship.
Steve is a handsome veteran, who knows what he wants and knows how to act around someone like Jen. He’s a true gentleman, an amazing man and an even more amazing Dom.
The dynamics in this book are hard and complex but the more these characters get to know their true selves, the more understanding they are. And even if it hurts, sometimes you just need to listen and understand instead of fight and ruin nice things.
This is a book for people who have the courage to open up and admit when they are lost. For those who care about wellbeing and doing whatever it takes to reach it.
Very detailed and interesting this book will capture your attention as soon as you start reading and you won’t want to do anything else but find out how this will end.
December 11, 2019
Surprising, compelling, and just what I needed!
It was a happy accident that led to my introduction to Mr. Starrett, and my ultimate purchase of this book. I could NOT find a read I was happy with until I opened Submissive Lies. Jen's story was a bit of a revelation to me, and the way her creator delved into the feminine psyche was, quite frankly, incredible. This was my first read by this author, but it will most certainly not be my last! Well done, sir!
It was a happy accident that led to my introduction to Mr. Starrett, and my ultimate purchase of this book. I could NOT find a read I was happy with until I opened Submissive Lies. Jen's story was a bit of a revelation to me, and the way her creator delved into the feminine psyche was, quite frankly, incredible. This was my first read by this author, but it will most certainly not be my last! Well done, sir!
August 24, 2019
An impressive debut novel by an author who clearly knows their subject. The intricacies of the D/s relationship were very evident in this book.
The book does feature cheating, which is a trigger for some readers. I am always intrigued by novels containing infidelity, as I like to see how the author handles it.
The main theme in this book is that you cannot hide your true, authentic self. If you go against your natural instincts and try to be someone you aren’t, it will eventually catch up with you. Even if it is done for solid, reasonable intentions.
I found the book an engaging, compelling read with angsty moments where I really sympathised with the main female character. It’s a book more rooted in real life than a lot in its genre which makes it all the more appealing. The end result definitely justified the means and I have no hesitation in recommending this book.
The book does feature cheating, which is a trigger for some readers. I am always intrigued by novels containing infidelity, as I like to see how the author handles it.
The main theme in this book is that you cannot hide your true, authentic self. If you go against your natural instincts and try to be someone you aren’t, it will eventually catch up with you. Even if it is done for solid, reasonable intentions.
I found the book an engaging, compelling read with angsty moments where I really sympathised with the main female character. It’s a book more rooted in real life than a lot in its genre which makes it all the more appealing. The end result definitely justified the means and I have no hesitation in recommending this book.
August 10, 2019
Wellllllllll I had my doubts.......and not because it's a male author writing sexy romance from a womans POV, sheesh, who cares about that? My doubts were if I would be able to connect to Jen, to feel for her, I was in serious doubt about this.......not a huge fan of well......liars and such. But.......I was wrong, was pulled into her life, her inner conflict, everything. The emotions came through, she felt so real to me, the way she reacted to Thomas and Steve, very heartfelt. She was harder on herself then anyone else ever could be.
Was an amazing story for a first time author, think this one must have been brewing for a while in someone's head!!!! Can't wait to see what is coming up in the future......may have found a new author to add to my one click list!
Was an amazing story for a first time author, think this one must have been brewing for a while in someone's head!!!! Can't wait to see what is coming up in the future......may have found a new author to add to my one click list!
August 15, 2019
After having been cheated on by her Dom, Jennifer told herself she was finished with her submissive desires. But although she found the perfect loving and caring boyfriend in Thomas, she gradually became dissatisfied with their relationship. Unable to voice what she wanted, realizing Thomas was never gone handle her like she wanted to be handled, Jennifer fails to come up with an easy way to terminate their relationship. On a business trip, she meets Steve and falls hard for him. Now she is the one who is 'cheating'.
Jennifer and Steve only spend a few days together, but the tension between them can be felt. You understand why Jennifer is having trouble communicating her desires and you want to sympathize, even while feeling bad for Thomas.
Jennifer and Steve only spend a few days together, but the tension between them can be felt. You understand why Jennifer is having trouble communicating her desires and you want to sympathize, even while feeling bad for Thomas.
June 12, 2022
Wow! Finally finished this book. It was a slow read. Sadly, it put me to sleep very easily. There were moments, but is was a slow go. Then there was the formatting. That didn't help. It was so bad that is actually pulled me from the story, often. However, there was something here. I kept going back. It was more angsty that I like. The inner dialog was worse even that my own. Not my favorite place to be. The romance? Hmmm. Although that was there, this was all about Jen growing and rediscovering who and what she is. Hence all the inner dialog. Maybe that is what kept me going back. I wanted to see how she came back from a monumental life decision gone bad. Anyway, I did finish the story. Clean up the distracting formatting, and it isn't bad.
July 31, 2019
I thought this was a great first book and in general I really enjoyed it, but I found myself in the unusual situation of not liking the main character. It wasn’t that she cheated on Thomas , that I could understand to a certain extent, however for someone who was so badly hurt by Ben it seemed almost inconceivable to me that she would do that to someone else. I thought Thomas and Steve were great and certainly deserve better than Jen. I think what bothered me the most was her selfishness, she rationalized every negative thing she did and although she said it was her fault somehow she twisted it back to ‘poor little me’. Notwithstanding my feelings about Jen this was a good book.
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