What do you think?
Rate this book
Dad Bod Doms #4
Faris
Four men... One challenge.
The Dad Bod Doms are ready to put the spark back in their relationships and prove their mettle.
He stalked her. Watched her. And took her for his own.
Faris is domineering, possessive, and harbors a dark secret he never told anyone until her.
Leyla is sultry, seductive, and Faris' secret is her deepest desire.
They were a match made in heaven until things went to hell.
Now they have one chance to salvage their love, their life, their family, their home. But it’s not going to happen in the boardroom or PTA meetings. They're back to where it all began: in the dungeon where he’d first seen her on her knees, begging for release…
As he watched her.
The Dad Bod Doms are ready to put the spark back in their relationships and prove their mettle.
He stalked her. Watched her. And took her for his own.
Faris is domineering, possessive, and harbors a dark secret he never told anyone until her.
Leyla is sultry, seductive, and Faris' secret is her deepest desire.
They were a match made in heaven until things went to hell.
Now they have one chance to salvage their love, their life, their family, their home. But it’s not going to happen in the boardroom or PTA meetings. They're back to where it all began: in the dungeon where he’d first seen her on her knees, begging for release…
As he watched her.
- GenresBDSMRomanceContemporary
345 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 28, 2020
85 people are currently reading
209 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 2, 2020
Loved it!
Whilst Faris is book #4 in the series, I read this one first, so I can absolutely guarantee that it can be read stand alone! It does contain one smallish spoiler for Henry's book, but the blurb for that book also hints at it. I loved that we got both point of views in this book, and Shane Starrett is one of those male authors who CAN write a woman's pov accurately. He can also write scorching hot, erotic scenes - I never knew dancing at a club could be so hot.
There are so many things I loved and enjoyed about this story, but the main one was how humble Faris was. Well, once he'd stopped being a complete head-up-his-backside idiot. It's no spoiler to say that Faris and Leyla have relationship issues and they were the sort of things that happen to ALL couples as the shiney newness wears off a marriage, as the birth of children and the pressures of life distract from what is actually important.
Too often in books containing some kind of PE dynamic, when things go "wrong" somehow it's the submissives fault. Too often the Dom is a mind reading, all seeing, all knowing, omnipotent genius. Too often I get annoyed by that (even if unintentionally) misogynistic crap. So this got a gazillion kudos points for sharing the blame equally, for having a Dom that not only made mistakes but owned up to them. Admitted them not just to himself, but to his peers and his submissive, and that was not only refreshing but it just made the whole story feel so much more honest.
I found myself believing in Layla and Faris, they were characters living a real life, facing real problems and finding real resolutions to those problems. I would easily believe it, should I be told, that the author had drawn on his own experience, or the experiences of close friends. It had such an air of authenticity about not only the problems, but their feelings, their responses and their solutions. They were both absolutely perfect in their imperfections, totally honest characters - though not always honest with one another. I adored them, even when I wanted to shake them! These were so true to life they feel more like people than book characters.
Whilst this isn't a romance in the traditional sense of "boy meets girl" etc, it is still a beautiful love story and one where the depth of that love is so transparently obvious. Both protagonists are prepared to sacrifice their own wants and needs for the happiness of their partner, it's just a shame they take so long to find out exactly what it is that the one DOES want. I'm fairly certain anyone who has been in a live together relationship for a few years would relate to this couple. So hooray for fishing weekends and Dom's waking up and smelling the coffee, because it makes for one amazing, sexy and full of feels read!
Whilst Faris is book #4 in the series, I read this one first, so I can absolutely guarantee that it can be read stand alone! It does contain one smallish spoiler for Henry's book, but the blurb for that book also hints at it. I loved that we got both point of views in this book, and Shane Starrett is one of those male authors who CAN write a woman's pov accurately. He can also write scorching hot, erotic scenes - I never knew dancing at a club could be so hot.
There are so many things I loved and enjoyed about this story, but the main one was how humble Faris was. Well, once he'd stopped being a complete head-up-his-backside idiot. It's no spoiler to say that Faris and Leyla have relationship issues and they were the sort of things that happen to ALL couples as the shiney newness wears off a marriage, as the birth of children and the pressures of life distract from what is actually important.
Too often in books containing some kind of PE dynamic, when things go "wrong" somehow it's the submissives fault. Too often the Dom is a mind reading, all seeing, all knowing, omnipotent genius. Too often I get annoyed by that (even if unintentionally) misogynistic crap. So this got a gazillion kudos points for sharing the blame equally, for having a Dom that not only made mistakes but owned up to them. Admitted them not just to himself, but to his peers and his submissive, and that was not only refreshing but it just made the whole story feel so much more honest.
I found myself believing in Layla and Faris, they were characters living a real life, facing real problems and finding real resolutions to those problems. I would easily believe it, should I be told, that the author had drawn on his own experience, or the experiences of close friends. It had such an air of authenticity about not only the problems, but their feelings, their responses and their solutions. They were both absolutely perfect in their imperfections, totally honest characters - though not always honest with one another. I adored them, even when I wanted to shake them! These were so true to life they feel more like people than book characters.
Whilst this isn't a romance in the traditional sense of "boy meets girl" etc, it is still a beautiful love story and one where the depth of that love is so transparently obvious. Both protagonists are prepared to sacrifice their own wants and needs for the happiness of their partner, it's just a shame they take so long to find out exactly what it is that the one DOES want. I'm fairly certain anyone who has been in a live together relationship for a few years would relate to this couple. So hooray for fishing weekends and Dom's waking up and smelling the coffee, because it makes for one amazing, sexy and full of feels read!
September 20, 2021
3.5 Stars
I enjoyed this series. This one though was a little too unrealistic in the facts of their lives for me to relate. They both work over 50 hrs a week. They have an 8 month old baby, that Leyla is still breastfeeding and pumping for. They are still getting up to feed the baby throughout the night, having sex until one of the baby's night time feedings (presumably ~1-1:30am) then jumping up at 6am to go to work. Then beating themselves up because their kink time fell off the map?! Also do you know how expensive babysitters are? Usually $15-$20 per hour for the perky pre-med student they were making fun of at least. So for a night out at Stronghold you're talking dinner, drinks, Uber to and fro, and babysitter that's a couple hundred bucks and quite an expensive thing to do every weekend.
So for me, maybe because it hasn't been too long since I had babies, I thought it was crazy that they were thinking their relationship wasn't gonna work if they couldn't fulfill their kink at only the 8 month mark after having the baby. When I was breastfeeding, I remember being exhausted a lot and feeling like I couldn't really do anything. You are feeding every few hours for 20-30 mins at least because it's usually 10 mins per side and you have to burp in between or at least after. Then if you do go out or work you have to pump on the same schedule or even more frequently if you want to have enough to leave for sitters. Also at the end, after she came home from work, got dressed to go out, through dinner, straight to Stronghold and into her scene with Master Mitch, her breasts would have been rock hard and leaking like a sieve.
So the premise for this one was a little hard for me to believe.
I enjoyed this series. This one though was a little too unrealistic in the facts of their lives for me to relate. They both work over 50 hrs a week. They have an 8 month old baby, that Leyla is still breastfeeding and pumping for. They are still getting up to feed the baby throughout the night, having sex until one of the baby's night time feedings (presumably ~1-1:30am) then jumping up at 6am to go to work. Then beating themselves up because their kink time fell off the map?! Also do you know how expensive babysitters are? Usually $15-$20 per hour for the perky pre-med student they were making fun of at least. So for a night out at Stronghold you're talking dinner, drinks, Uber to and fro, and babysitter that's a couple hundred bucks and quite an expensive thing to do every weekend.
So for me, maybe because it hasn't been too long since I had babies, I thought it was crazy that they were thinking their relationship wasn't gonna work if they couldn't fulfill their kink at only the 8 month mark after having the baby. When I was breastfeeding, I remember being exhausted a lot and feeling like I couldn't really do anything. You are feeding every few hours for 20-30 mins at least because it's usually 10 mins per side and you have to burp in between or at least after. Then if you do go out or work you have to pump on the same schedule or even more frequently if you want to have enough to leave for sitters. Also at the end, after she came home from work, got dressed to go out, through dinner, straight to Stronghold and into her scene with Master Mitch, her breasts would have been rock hard and leaking like a sieve.
So the premise for this one was a little hard for me to believe.
September 4, 2020
The prologue to this was hot!! Pay close attention to it because it helps you understand what Faris and Leyla's kink is!
In the last book of this collection, we have Faris trying to figure out how to put the spark back in his marriage to Leyla. Life has a way of changing things up and if you're not careful, you lose your way. Faris and Leyla have lost their way. After the camping trip with his buddies, he goes home with a plan that starts out okay, but quickly falls apart. Out of the 4 books, this book has become my favorite. The emotions were intense. The story is breathtaking and heartbreaking as you watch the couple try to navigate their way through the hurt and misunderstandings of the past several years. I love that we get to go to Stronghold and connect with characters from Golden Angel's series. (IF you haven't read her Stronghold series, you NEED to) If you've read the previous 3 books, you will get everything pulled together for the guys. Will Faris finally figure out what his lovely wife/sub needs and desires? Be sure to get this and don't say I didn't warn you about the kink!! *wink*
In the last book of this collection, we have Faris trying to figure out how to put the spark back in his marriage to Leyla. Life has a way of changing things up and if you're not careful, you lose your way. Faris and Leyla have lost their way. After the camping trip with his buddies, he goes home with a plan that starts out okay, but quickly falls apart. Out of the 4 books, this book has become my favorite. The emotions were intense. The story is breathtaking and heartbreaking as you watch the couple try to navigate their way through the hurt and misunderstandings of the past several years. I love that we get to go to Stronghold and connect with characters from Golden Angel's series. (IF you haven't read her Stronghold series, you NEED to) If you've read the previous 3 books, you will get everything pulled together for the guys. Will Faris finally figure out what his lovely wife/sub needs and desires? Be sure to get this and don't say I didn't warn you about the kink!! *wink*
September 28, 2020
As expected, Shane went for the unusual, and he knocked it out of the ball park. Faris and Leyla are relatable, emotional, and love a kink that I don't think gets nearly enough page time. Shane brought all of that to life and made it so damn HOT! I also appreciate how much time he spent in Stronghold and loved getting to see some of my characters again, as someone else sees them.
September 6, 2020
First I have to say, I read for the fantasy, the escape. I'm more into the paranormal and scifi, just so you know where I'm coming from.
Now that being said.....Shane Starrett has become a one click for me. He manages to being real life issues into his stories, emotional angsty stuff. But, I still get my fantasy.
This one hit all the spots, I imagine it wasn't the easiest subject to write about, I sure didn't expect it.
I'm not even sure what to expect from him next, I just know it will be a one click. Maybe we could nudge him into the paranomal direction? 🤷♀️🤔 Hmmm, food for thought.
Now that being said.....Shane Starrett has become a one click for me. He manages to being real life issues into his stories, emotional angsty stuff. But, I still get my fantasy.
This one hit all the spots, I imagine it wasn't the easiest subject to write about, I sure didn't expect it.
I'm not even sure what to expect from him next, I just know it will be a one click. Maybe we could nudge him into the paranomal direction? 🤷♀️🤔 Hmmm, food for thought.
September 11, 2020
What happens after a Dom and his sub get married,have demanding jobs ánd a kid? Faris and Leyla know exactly what happens....Having heard the stories of Faris’ friends,i was really ready to hear his. And again,lucky me,i could! Because Shane was so kind to share an ARC with me! And all i have to do in exchange is to write an honest review! No problem!
Faris and Leyla have everything under control. They both take care of their sweet babygirl. They both make sure work stays out of the house as much as possible. They share the chores of the household. Only....their lovelife,where did the spark go? The uniqueness of their dynamic? Having a baby means making sacrifices,and it seems the biggest one is exactly that.....If only they talked about it. But at the end of each day,they’re both happy that day is done. And talking? They’re both too tired to even think about it....But thinking about what they miss,thát’s something they both do. And both make the mistake of thinking they’re “satisfied” with where they are.....because it makes her/him happy? When Faris decides to try and bring that dynamic back,it looks like they’re heading in the right direction. Until life interferes again......and everything blows up in their faces. A time-out seems like a good idea,and his weekend is coming up......
Can these two work things out? Can they go back to what makes them happy? They need more than the others...but who is willing to help them out? Both are lucky to have great bosses that are willing to push them in the right direction....like going to Stronghold,maybe?
I enjoyed Faris’ and Leyla’s story,a lot. Their dynamic was unique,but they made it work before. And they can make it work again. Because they still love eachother. And in the end,still trust eachother. The struggle to get there,that was hard to watch,but it was só worth it!
Going to Stronghold was great and i loved seeing old friends again!
Faris and Leyla have everything under control. They both take care of their sweet babygirl. They both make sure work stays out of the house as much as possible. They share the chores of the household. Only....their lovelife,where did the spark go? The uniqueness of their dynamic? Having a baby means making sacrifices,and it seems the biggest one is exactly that.....If only they talked about it. But at the end of each day,they’re both happy that day is done. And talking? They’re both too tired to even think about it....But thinking about what they miss,thát’s something they both do. And both make the mistake of thinking they’re “satisfied” with where they are.....because it makes her/him happy? When Faris decides to try and bring that dynamic back,it looks like they’re heading in the right direction. Until life interferes again......and everything blows up in their faces. A time-out seems like a good idea,and his weekend is coming up......
Can these two work things out? Can they go back to what makes them happy? They need more than the others...but who is willing to help them out? Both are lucky to have great bosses that are willing to push them in the right direction....like going to Stronghold,maybe?
I enjoyed Faris’ and Leyla’s story,a lot. Their dynamic was unique,but they made it work before. And they can make it work again. Because they still love eachother. And in the end,still trust eachother. The struggle to get there,that was hard to watch,but it was só worth it!
Going to Stronghold was great and i loved seeing old friends again!
December 12, 2020
I just finished this amazing book and I just can't put my feelings into words. Shane has once again stunned me speechless.
Leyla and Faris have a kink that is not widely written about...and it really needs to be, its HOT! Life has gotten in their way and thankfully they both take the blame for their parts. Granted there are some heated arguments but such is life as married parents.
Even though this is the 4th book, it's my first read of the series and I'm not disappointed. Seeing the men connect on their yearly trip, support each other and share their lives, every man deserves this kind of friendship.
I'm truly anxious for all of the books to come out now...too bad they won't be released all at once, I'd lock myself in my room!
Leyla and Faris have a kink that is not widely written about...and it really needs to be, its HOT! Life has gotten in their way and thankfully they both take the blame for their parts. Granted there are some heated arguments but such is life as married parents.
Even though this is the 4th book, it's my first read of the series and I'm not disappointed. Seeing the men connect on their yearly trip, support each other and share their lives, every man deserves this kind of friendship.
I'm truly anxious for all of the books to come out now...too bad they won't be released all at once, I'd lock myself in my room!
September 7, 2020
This story slayed me. From the beginning I saw myself. Not necessarily the same details, but EXACTLY the same situation: The Rut. The routine of life and how it can change your expectations and your ability to communicate with your partner. Shane points out that the common changes that accompany everyday living, going from single to couple to married with children, require routines and schedules. How easy it becomes to take the path of least resistance and let your relationship slide. To assume and deflect and project. To put your job and the money and security it brings in above your relationship, because that will never change, right? All things I am guilty of. Ferris and Layla make me want to be better. Better at life and better at my most important relationship. Bravo Shane!!
September 5, 2020
I loved this book and couldn’t put it down. It seemed that the author put a lot of himself into the story that adds a depth that resonates with the reader. It was so refreshing that there was no blame between Layla and Faris and yet each recognized that life had gotten in the way of their relationship. The back stories of both Layla and Faris were interesting as well and how much fun that Stronghold played such a big part in getting their relationship back on track. Patrick, Lexi and Olivia were always my favourites and it was great to see them again.
September 29, 2020
This is the last entry in the Dad Bod Doms quartet; each is a standalone in terms of the MC. I want to advise potential readers that the kink presented here involves some sharing (though no sex) that may not be to all tastes.
The premise of the series is that four Doms attempt to pull their long-term D/s relationships out of their physical, mental, and emotional ruts. For variety's sake, each book features different kinks, issues, and relationship dynamics. In this case, Leyla and Faris are juggling demanding jobs and a new baby. The stresses mount until each is on the verge of saying something they cannot take back. To re-connect with his wife, Faris decides that a visit to their past is the best way to assure their future...
Because of my personal preferences, I found a lot to like about this book. I appreciated its realism (no 7'5" blue aliens with two "appendages" here); that Leyla and Faris were intelligent, capable, likeable people who both made mistakes and ultimately had the grace and maturity to fix them; that both were professionals who split household duties and childcare equally; and that their problems were organic rather than artificially contrived. While exhibitionism and looking aren't my kinks (I wouldn't go so far as to say this is scopophilia since Faris doesn't substitute the pleasures of looking for the pleasures of sex, and he's only interested in watching his wife), the erotic scenes were well-described and I enjoyed reading about a kink that I've never seen depicted in other generic books (and I've read many).
While the prose is grammatically correct and flows well in terms of dialogue, it was very repetitious and at least a quarter could have been cut to much better effect. Multiple iterations of the exact same conversation happen within pages of each other (Leyla's colleagues tell her over and over and over again that she's the reason they have a chance at a big account; Faris' boss makes umpteen references to a dinner he'd like to treat the couple to; the relatively small role of the babysitter is magnified by the multiple times she's described; etc.). I feel that if authors don't provide new information or information in a new way, they should take it out and rarely did I feel I was learning anything new. The MC's inner monologues in particular were redundant as each kept wondering if they should tell the other that their needs weren't being met. I skipped sections of this book and don't feel I missed anything.
Four stars. I also want to commend Mr. Starrett for not playing "how to describe yourself as a male author would." Thankfully, Leyla doesn't have wide hips, a thin waist, and D-cup sized breasts with no bra.
Note on the Series: I appreciated the premise of the series: its realism; its metaphorical use of BDSM as each couple uses it to reconnect with each other and rediscover aspects of themselves long hidden away; the relatively SSC of the BDSM scenes; the unusual (for this genre) male perspective; and, most especially, the older characters (as an older reader, I find myself increasingly less interested in reading about the barely post-pubescent h's that populate these books). I also thought the authors handled continuity well (though this book ascribes traits to Ally not apparent in Ray). While I liked some books better than others, I understand that a series must provide variations on a theme to stay fresh.
Warning for Spoilers:
I did, however, almost stop reading after the second book because the H in Henry kidnaps his wife, holds her against her will and without identifying himself, sexually assaults her, and threatens her with a knife. I might have been able to look past this to some degree if she hadn't forgiven him instantly for terrorizing her and if he had suffered any consequences. None of the blurbs or the fairly benign subtitle (Dad Bod Doms) prepared me for the violence in that book and I felt that the series did a huge disservice to readers by not labeling it as "dark." While that's a very vague word, at least it would have provided a heads up. I really don't understand why the authors decided not to do this since others found it disturbing and so gave the book poor reviews; conversely, they might have attracted readers who do like harsher stories if they had labeled it thus.
Final Thought: None of the cover models had "dad bods:" the first and last are thin; the middle two have muscles.
The premise of the series is that four Doms attempt to pull their long-term D/s relationships out of their physical, mental, and emotional ruts. For variety's sake, each book features different kinks, issues, and relationship dynamics. In this case, Leyla and Faris are juggling demanding jobs and a new baby. The stresses mount until each is on the verge of saying something they cannot take back. To re-connect with his wife, Faris decides that a visit to their past is the best way to assure their future...
Because of my personal preferences, I found a lot to like about this book. I appreciated its realism (no 7'5" blue aliens with two "appendages" here); that Leyla and Faris were intelligent, capable, likeable people who both made mistakes and ultimately had the grace and maturity to fix them; that both were professionals who split household duties and childcare equally; and that their problems were organic rather than artificially contrived. While exhibitionism and looking aren't my kinks (I wouldn't go so far as to say this is scopophilia since Faris doesn't substitute the pleasures of looking for the pleasures of sex, and he's only interested in watching his wife), the erotic scenes were well-described and I enjoyed reading about a kink that I've never seen depicted in other generic books (and I've read many).
While the prose is grammatically correct and flows well in terms of dialogue, it was very repetitious and at least a quarter could have been cut to much better effect. Multiple iterations of the exact same conversation happen within pages of each other (Leyla's colleagues tell her over and over and over again that she's the reason they have a chance at a big account; Faris' boss makes umpteen references to a dinner he'd like to treat the couple to; the relatively small role of the babysitter is magnified by the multiple times she's described; etc.). I feel that if authors don't provide new information or information in a new way, they should take it out and rarely did I feel I was learning anything new. The MC's inner monologues in particular were redundant as each kept wondering if they should tell the other that their needs weren't being met. I skipped sections of this book and don't feel I missed anything.
Four stars. I also want to commend Mr. Starrett for not playing "how to describe yourself as a male author would." Thankfully, Leyla doesn't have wide hips, a thin waist, and D-cup sized breasts with no bra.
Note on the Series: I appreciated the premise of the series: its realism; its metaphorical use of BDSM as each couple uses it to reconnect with each other and rediscover aspects of themselves long hidden away; the relatively SSC of the BDSM scenes; the unusual (for this genre) male perspective; and, most especially, the older characters (as an older reader, I find myself increasingly less interested in reading about the barely post-pubescent h's that populate these books). I also thought the authors handled continuity well (though this book ascribes traits to Ally not apparent in Ray). While I liked some books better than others, I understand that a series must provide variations on a theme to stay fresh.
Warning for Spoilers:
I did, however, almost stop reading after the second book because the H in Henry kidnaps his wife, holds her against her will and without identifying himself, sexually assaults her, and threatens her with a knife. I might have been able to look past this to some degree if she hadn't forgiven him instantly for terrorizing her and if he had suffered any consequences. None of the blurbs or the fairly benign subtitle (Dad Bod Doms) prepared me for the violence in that book and I felt that the series did a huge disservice to readers by not labeling it as "dark." While that's a very vague word, at least it would have provided a heads up. I really don't understand why the authors decided not to do this since others found it disturbing and so gave the book poor reviews; conversely, they might have attracted readers who do like harsher stories if they had labeled it thus.
Final Thought: None of the cover models had "dad bods:" the first and last are thin; the middle two have muscles.
September 14, 2020
FARIS by Shane Starrett
I had a hard time getting into Faris, but when I finally did, it was a non-stop read. Leyla is a submissive that plays with a variety of doms. Faris is a dom who loves to watch Leyla from afar. When they are finally paired up, the attraction is quick and solid. I don't want to give away anything about either them and ruin the story, but suffice to say they each have an interesting quirk that makes them perfect for each other. Fast forward ten years. They both have interesting jobs that they enjoy, and a new baby they adore. But .. their days are full, their evenings are full, and life is full. And maybe a little dull. Maybe. A little. Join Faris and Leyla as they work to put that spark back in their marriage. Lovely story!
I had a hard time getting into Faris, but when I finally did, it was a non-stop read. Leyla is a submissive that plays with a variety of doms. Faris is a dom who loves to watch Leyla from afar. When they are finally paired up, the attraction is quick and solid. I don't want to give away anything about either them and ruin the story, but suffice to say they each have an interesting quirk that makes them perfect for each other. Fast forward ten years. They both have interesting jobs that they enjoy, and a new baby they adore. But .. their days are full, their evenings are full, and life is full. And maybe a little dull. Maybe. A little. Join Faris and Leyla as they work to put that spark back in their marriage. Lovely story!
September 30, 2020
Finding Their Way Back
Life isn't easy, the way isn't smooth but when it comes down to it, if you want what you had once, love can find a way. Faris and Layla just needed to figure out what their priorities were and make the changes to get what they had. As in all relationships communication is the key. Love is a strong, irrisistible incentive.
Bravo to the dom in Faris that reappeared to discover the submissive that was practically dormant in Leyla.
Life isn't easy, the way isn't smooth but when it comes down to it, if you want what you had once, love can find a way. Faris and Layla just needed to figure out what their priorities were and make the changes to get what they had. As in all relationships communication is the key. Love is a strong, irrisistible incentive.
Bravo to the dom in Faris that reappeared to discover the submissive that was practically dormant in Leyla.
September 28, 2020
Wow! This last Dad Bod Dom had to be the most voyeuristic one yet! Far is and his wife/submissive Lelya are some paired perfectly with their kinks, that reading this book was very hot and steamy! It has a few twists and turns that you don’t really expect but are nevertheless welcomed surprises.
I could not stop reading once I started it. A couple of these outlying couples specifically David and Cassie and Graham and his wife just might have a story of their own down the line?! I would be more than happy to read them. And this HEA was well deserved in the end. Shane Starrett has done a great job on this book. Congratulations 🎉
I could not stop reading once I started it. A couple of these outlying couples specifically David and Cassie and Graham and his wife just might have a story of their own down the line?! I would be more than happy to read them. And this HEA was well deserved in the end. Shane Starrett has done a great job on this book. Congratulations 🎉
October 3, 2020
Great End to the series.
A brilliant conclusion to the "Dad Bod Doms".
I looked forward to this series when it was announced and I am not disappointed in the least. Another one time young hot Dom and his wife/sub that must navigate real life, family, career and a sexual life they have let slide. A story with all the daily struggles and making the D/s life work again.
Still hoping for a fifth book that includes wives and husbands all together.
A brilliant conclusion to the "Dad Bod Doms".
I looked forward to this series when it was announced and I am not disappointed in the least. Another one time young hot Dom and his wife/sub that must navigate real life, family, career and a sexual life they have let slide. A story with all the daily struggles and making the D/s life work again.
Still hoping for a fifth book that includes wives and husbands all together.
September 28, 2020
Faris
What a read. Everyone has a kink that works for them....what they don’t always realize is how much that they need that kink. Life has a way of making us realize what is most important and Faris shows us that we can get back to our roots.
What a read. Everyone has a kink that works for them....what they don’t always realize is how much that they need that kink. Life has a way of making us realize what is most important and Faris shows us that we can get back to our roots.
Read
September 28, 2020Can't rate 'cos I edited. What a fun read and so much to unpack. I love the character arcs immensely.
September 16, 2020
Faris has been watching Leyla at Stronghold and waiting to make his move when he did it was magic!
Fast forward a few years later and they are a young couple struggling with their lives and obligations.
They are mad at each other, at what they lost and neither are willing to voice it, until they reach a breaking point and Faris reclaims his place as the Dom in the relationship. Their journey to an HEA is so realistic, that it will give you pause and bring introspection in the forefront. The characters and their qwirks makes this a very interesting view of what a D/s relationship is all about. I volunteered to review this story.
Fast forward a few years later and they are a young couple struggling with their lives and obligations.
They are mad at each other, at what they lost and neither are willing to voice it, until they reach a breaking point and Faris reclaims his place as the Dom in the relationship. Their journey to an HEA is so realistic, that it will give you pause and bring introspection in the forefront. The characters and their qwirks makes this a very interesting view of what a D/s relationship is all about. I volunteered to review this story.
September 30, 2020
Faris and Leyla were an interesting and dynamic couple. I love the fact that Shane approach their kink with understanding and educating in mind. It was a great way to introduce people to something they may not have really understood.
The first bit of the story was a little slow for me but it picked up speed. When Faris and Leyla get out for the first time that is when this story sucked me!
It was well incorporated into the Stronghold world. Definitely a story that leaves you panting! Well done Shane!
The first bit of the story was a little slow for me but it picked up speed. When Faris and Leyla get out for the first time that is when this story sucked me!
It was well incorporated into the Stronghold world. Definitely a story that leaves you panting! Well done Shane!
October 16, 2020
Dear Readers,
I read everything Shane writes and this is by FAR his best work yet. After I finished reading, I took a few days away from any other books just so I could appreciate what he wrote, what I read. I rarely do this. But Faris needed my reflection. There was laughter, hot sexy times and reality all through it.
Starrett was clearly in his element as he wrote this, Dad Bod (*SNORT) angle to the romance, erotic genre. We read the young 24 pack hot tattooed guy but few writers dare to remind us of ourselves and what we could be having now. Starrett writes about Faris, a man, a dom and his wife, his sub and how things have fallen by the wayside because 'life' got in the way to the point their connection was lost and how he put the zing back in their life by stepping up and being the dom she needed him to be. Starrett also tackles one of the most misunderstood kinks out there with superb skill. He really caught the thrill of their kink and took us along for the ride. Brilliant.
Bravo!
Love & Light,
Julia
rumrunner
I read everything Shane writes and this is by FAR his best work yet. After I finished reading, I took a few days away from any other books just so I could appreciate what he wrote, what I read. I rarely do this. But Faris needed my reflection. There was laughter, hot sexy times and reality all through it.
Starrett was clearly in his element as he wrote this, Dad Bod (*SNORT) angle to the romance, erotic genre. We read the young 24 pack hot tattooed guy but few writers dare to remind us of ourselves and what we could be having now. Starrett writes about Faris, a man, a dom and his wife, his sub and how things have fallen by the wayside because 'life' got in the way to the point their connection was lost and how he put the zing back in their life by stepping up and being the dom she needed him to be. Starrett also tackles one of the most misunderstood kinks out there with superb skill. He really caught the thrill of their kink and took us along for the ride. Brilliant.
Bravo!
Love & Light,
Julia
rumrunner
October 5, 2020
Loved it
Honestly, this and the 1st of the Dad Bod Doms series are my favorites. Don't get me wrong, they were all good. I could tell this author really has an understanding of the lifestyle and D/s relationships and BDSM. I appreciated the 'realness' of the situation and the emphasis for communication in any relationship. And the practical, loving, committed relationship they have.
Honestly, this and the 1st of the Dad Bod Doms series are my favorites. Don't get me wrong, they were all good. I could tell this author really has an understanding of the lifestyle and D/s relationships and BDSM. I appreciated the 'realness' of the situation and the emphasis for communication in any relationship. And the practical, loving, committed relationship they have.
January 28, 2021
It was my favorite in this series. I like that is was not magic transformation from bad situation to better situation in one day. There was work and talk.
October 1, 2020
Absolute must read! The burn of young love, the desire, the want, the need, so desperate nothing gets in your way to spend time with your other half. Life is perfect, expectations exceeded then life happens, world changing events that alter your world. None of it bad but different. This should be under multiple genres self help, relationship help, BDSM, romance and sexy scenes. It has it all! Perhaps this story can save some people from common mistakes that snowball leading to implosion.
This story is presented with depth, clarity, knowledge and, a side of life from an experienced male Dominant's POV. Dont forget a side of kink, which happens to be voyeurism, a HEA and you have an amazing story at your fingertips.
It left me inspired, excited, an overall high with rational and sane relationship help. This author has a way unique way with words that makes the story even better.
This story is presented with depth, clarity, knowledge and, a side of life from an experienced male Dominant's POV. Dont forget a side of kink, which happens to be voyeurism, a HEA and you have an amazing story at your fingertips.
It left me inspired, excited, an overall high with rational and sane relationship help. This author has a way unique way with words that makes the story even better.
February 2, 2022
The couple: Faris and Leyla
Romance genre: redemption story
Series: Dad Bod Doms
Length: 345 pages
Plot: Faris and Leyla came together through a meet at a local bdsm dungeon. They hit it off and eventually got married and had a baby. This is where everything changes though. They are both working overtime and taking care of the house and their infant, and that stress and lack of time are wearing on them. In fact, it's not even entirely clear that they like each other anymore, even if they still love each other. Faris decides that he is going to get his wife back, one way or another. It won't be easy though!
Commentary: The blurb made it sound more like romantic suspense, and that's not what it was at all. That's fine, it was just...strange.
I appreciated a book that focused on a regular relationships. That's pretty normal - married but so busy with work and kids that the relationship seems to lose importance. And honestly, in the scheme of things, it is more important to keep the baby alive and have a roof over your head. But we see here that the stress in their lives has become something more, and it seemed to focus on work. Faris' work included a big, important project and a nitpicking associate. Leyla's job included a bid for a big, important account. They both had responsibilities at work that had to be met. People depended on them. But their resentments grew because of a lack of respect for their work. Each of them saw their own work as most important. That's not unusual or bad - it's ambition. But it was the lack of respect that was the problem. I felt like Faris was a little harsher in his judgment. He said some ugly things. Leyla was more understanding than he had a right to be, and so it was a good thing that he decided to win her back. All in all, neither of them did anything completely horrible - it was the simple detritus of life sneaking up on them. They each had friends who supported them, and I think sometimes that's something that new parents are missing, so that was good.
Previous book in the series: Ray: A Contemporary Romance After Marriage
Romance genre: redemption story
Series: Dad Bod Doms
Length: 345 pages
Plot: Faris and Leyla came together through a meet at a local bdsm dungeon. They hit it off and eventually got married and had a baby. This is where everything changes though. They are both working overtime and taking care of the house and their infant, and that stress and lack of time are wearing on them. In fact, it's not even entirely clear that they like each other anymore, even if they still love each other. Faris decides that he is going to get his wife back, one way or another. It won't be easy though!
Commentary: The blurb made it sound more like romantic suspense, and that's not what it was at all. That's fine, it was just...strange.
I appreciated a book that focused on a regular relationships. That's pretty normal - married but so busy with work and kids that the relationship seems to lose importance. And honestly, in the scheme of things, it is more important to keep the baby alive and have a roof over your head. But we see here that the stress in their lives has become something more, and it seemed to focus on work. Faris' work included a big, important project and a nitpicking associate. Leyla's job included a bid for a big, important account. They both had responsibilities at work that had to be met. People depended on them. But their resentments grew because of a lack of respect for their work. Each of them saw their own work as most important. That's not unusual or bad - it's ambition. But it was the lack of respect that was the problem. I felt like Faris was a little harsher in his judgment. He said some ugly things. Leyla was more understanding than he had a right to be, and so it was a good thing that he decided to win her back. All in all, neither of them did anything completely horrible - it was the simple detritus of life sneaking up on them. They each had friends who supported them, and I think sometimes that's something that new parents are missing, so that was good.
Previous book in the series: Ray: A Contemporary Romance After Marriage
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2021
BDSM second chance romance
No plot spoilers
No potential triggers
There are some BDSM themed sex scenes and some swearing.
The characterisation is okay, but I didn't connect with either of the lead characters enough to actually care about them very much.
The plotline is engaging, detailing just how easy it is to deviate from a 'good' couple who communicate to watching a relationship wither from lack of attention.
I did think the book was a little long and repeated itself a few times in an attempt to ensure the lessons were learned, but to be honest you would have to be dense not to pick up on the relationship issues.
I also have to agree with a previous reviewer, the perpetual breast feeding became irritating and was mostly irrelevant, it felt like a way to fill out the book, detailing the minutia of life just a little too heavily.
The book is D/s based so if this isn't your preferred genre don't buy the book.
I have enjoyed reading the series, mostly because relationships fascinate me and watching a relationship struggle to overcome issues within the boundaries of any given kink and the additional confines of D/s can be utterly riveting. Plus, the element of being older couples ensures an added perspective to the issues being addressed.
No plot spoilers
No potential triggers
There are some BDSM themed sex scenes and some swearing.
The characterisation is okay, but I didn't connect with either of the lead characters enough to actually care about them very much.
The plotline is engaging, detailing just how easy it is to deviate from a 'good' couple who communicate to watching a relationship wither from lack of attention.
I did think the book was a little long and repeated itself a few times in an attempt to ensure the lessons were learned, but to be honest you would have to be dense not to pick up on the relationship issues.
I also have to agree with a previous reviewer, the perpetual breast feeding became irritating and was mostly irrelevant, it felt like a way to fill out the book, detailing the minutia of life just a little too heavily.
The book is D/s based so if this isn't your preferred genre don't buy the book.
I have enjoyed reading the series, mostly because relationships fascinate me and watching a relationship struggle to overcome issues within the boundaries of any given kink and the additional confines of D/s can be utterly riveting. Plus, the element of being older couples ensures an added perspective to the issues being addressed.
October 10, 2020
Mr. Starrett has blown it out of the park with this one. The emotional depth his characters experience brought me to tears. It was much too real and relatable, and I had to put it down a couple times and wipe my eyes. I loved that he connected it to the Stronghold series by Golden Angel because those books were my introduction to this trope, and any chance to revisit is wonderful, but it was his characters that kept me so intrigued. Faris and Leyla are like any married couple - going through the motions of adulting and parenting. They have lost their connection and are now suffering all the emotional trauma that can create. Their concerns, fears, and desire to fix things was painful and beautiful. It made for an amazing read. When you add in all the steamy scenes, and the passion between them, it just makes the story that much better. This is going to be one of those books that I read over and over again.
October 20, 2020
I've been trying to get to Faris' story ever since it came out. Just like Faris and Leyla life seemed to have gotten in the way until I made a concerted effort to achieve what I wanted. What a truly heartbreaking and heartwarming story Shane Starrett has created. The emotional pull from these two trying to bring the magic into a loving relationship had a lump in my throat several times. Continually missing the mark because of assumptions, second-guessing themselves and each other, and missed or noncommunication was so realistic it was easy to relate to. But when they got it right …. HOLY MOLEY. Their kink may not be my kink but it was hot as a firecracker to witness. And I did feel like I witnessed their entire experience. "Faris", to me, seemed like the icing on a very decadent cake.
November 11, 2020
This is the fourth in the Dad Bod Doms series and I read them in order. Faris is the first book I've read by Shane Starett and because of the series, I've been introduced to a new (for me) author. Faris is one of four Doms, who at their annual camping trip, decide they need to fix their relationships. You need to pay attention to the kink that is Faris and Leyla's as it is not often written about; I might have missed it, and it is important to the dynamics of the couple. It's a path full of potential pitfalls to reclaim their relationship. It was hot and I enjoyed the fact that they did visit Golden Angel's Stronghold. Enjoyable, well worth the read and a great introduction to Shane Starett if you haven't read his books before.
September 30, 2020
Wonderful end to a great series!
Faris and Leyla have lost their way after careers, baby and life have gotten in the way. Their marriage is strained, and they need to get it back on track. With the rest of the Dad Bod Doms, Faris has made a pact to fix what's wrong. It takes both of them working together, with a little help from their bosses, to get their mojo back.
I love that these four books, each written by a different author, are as different as the main characters. It was a pleasure to read Faris. Shane Starrett did a fantastic job.
Faris and Leyla have lost their way after careers, baby and life have gotten in the way. Their marriage is strained, and they need to get it back on track. With the rest of the Dad Bod Doms, Faris has made a pact to fix what's wrong. It takes both of them working together, with a little help from their bosses, to get their mojo back.
I love that these four books, each written by a different author, are as different as the main characters. It was a pleasure to read Faris. Shane Starrett did a fantastic job.
October 1, 2020
Excellent
All of these stories have brought us different from the doms perspective. This one was different then the rest. You could still see and feel the turmoil that Faris and Leyla went thru. They seemed happy, but yet there was underlying issues that needed to be solved.
This was a beautiful story and I loved the way it flowed from the beginning till the end. There were many times the emotions were flowing off the pages and there will be a few times you will laugh your butt off.
Until Next Time... Tabi
All of these stories have brought us different from the doms perspective. This one was different then the rest. You could still see and feel the turmoil that Faris and Leyla went thru. They seemed happy, but yet there was underlying issues that needed to be solved.
This was a beautiful story and I loved the way it flowed from the beginning till the end. There were many times the emotions were flowing off the pages and there will be a few times you will laugh your butt off.
Until Next Time... Tabi
September 29, 2020
Awesome
I thought this book was outstanding. I really like the other 3. But I felt this was close to realistic. I thought he was a great dad never complained when she woke. He would cook with him holding her. He would pick her up. Except one day how their jobs got in the way how he thought his job was more important . I really liked their scenes . He gave her what she wanted on her birthday. Different but that was them. Thanks I miss the gang already
I thought this book was outstanding. I really like the other 3. But I felt this was close to realistic. I thought he was a great dad never complained when she woke. He would cook with him holding her. He would pick her up. Except one day how their jobs got in the way how he thought his job was more important . I really liked their scenes . He gave her what she wanted on her birthday. Different but that was them. Thanks I miss the gang already
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews