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Rough Love #6
Obey the Rules
Ben Ballard and Xander Romano are determined to make their relationship work, no matter what.
The problem is, life seems determined to wear them down. Fame, distance, feelings...
Sometimes it's not as easy as talking things through. Sometimes actions speak louder than words.
So how do you keep that connection? Simple.
You obey the rules...
Loved by Him is the novel-length sixth part of the Rough Love series. Join Ben and Xander in their continuing odyssey of self-discovery, experimentation, and steamy fun as they work out the kinks together. Never fear - these two will get their HEA. It'll just take them some time to figure out what that happy ending looks like for them...
Rough Love can be rough. Please proceed with caution if you have any triggers.
Rough Love reading order:
Learn the Rules (serial)
1. Bound by Him
2. Taken by Him
3. Dared by Him
4. Marked by Him
5. Loved by Him
6. Follow the Rules (novel)
7. Break the Rules (novel)
The problem is, life seems determined to wear them down. Fame, distance, feelings...
Sometimes it's not as easy as talking things through. Sometimes actions speak louder than words.
So how do you keep that connection? Simple.
You obey the rules...
Loved by Him is the novel-length sixth part of the Rough Love series. Join Ben and Xander in their continuing odyssey of self-discovery, experimentation, and steamy fun as they work out the kinks together. Never fear - these two will get their HEA. It'll just take them some time to figure out what that happy ending looks like for them...
Rough Love can be rough. Please proceed with caution if you have any triggers.
Rough Love reading order:
Learn the Rules (serial)
1. Bound by Him
2. Taken by Him
3. Dared by Him
4. Marked by Him
5. Loved by Him
6. Follow the Rules (novel)
7. Break the Rules (novel)
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2019
90 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
Leighton Greene
40 books368 followersLeighton Greene has been writing stories since she was old enough to hold a pencil. Her first book was a choose-your-own-adventure style book about deciding what to eat for breakfast. It didn't shake the New York Times bestseller list, but she still has a copy of it.
After spending some time writing in academia, fanfiction and corporate reporting, Leighton decided she should probably do what she actually wanted to do, which was to write commercial fiction. So she did. She writes gay romance and, when the mood strikes, erotica as L.J. Greene.
Leighton lives with her partner and her cockatiel on the east coast of Australia.
(Source: Amazon.com)
After spending some time writing in academia, fanfiction and corporate reporting, Leighton decided she should probably do what she actually wanted to do, which was to write commercial fiction. So she did. She writes gay romance and, when the mood strikes, erotica as L.J. Greene.
Leighton lives with her partner and her cockatiel on the east coast of Australia.
(Source: Amazon.com)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 28, 2020
The escalation in this series is quite excellent. A slow and steady exploration of bdsm that intensifies as the relationships grows and cements.
I really enjoyed Obey the Rules mostly because Ben gets emotionally raw and Leighton Greene does an excellent job at portraying Ben's spiral.
“I feel lost. All that stuff we did, it’s all suddenly stopped and I feel out of control. I can’t get my head together some days. Like, I don’t know. Like I really am going to go supernova.”- Ben
Ben struggles immensely during this installment. To be separated from Xander when the relationship is still potent, intoxicating and fresh is the equivalent of having the rug pulled out from under him. He begins to self-destruct, his anger management issues escalate. His desperate need to be around Xander, to feel comfort, stability, security consuming him until he slips into the worst of his personality.
There is nothing perfect, smooth or consistent in this relationship. It's incredibly rocky despite the love they share. Balancing the sadistic/masochistic aspect of their sexual relationship with it's psychological effect on their emotional well being is not for the weak of mind. At the end of the day they're in uncharted territory, wading through the maelstrom to the best of their ability. I really love the raw honesty in their relationship. The violent outbursts. The emotional pain. All of which is brought to life beautifully by Green.
I have to say the most admirable thing about this series is the seriousness aspect. Their kink is dangerous and that's not dismissed. It requires a lot of control and communication. Ben and Xander both grow in Obey the Rules . They gain insight into one another's perspective. Xander begins to open up, surprisingly I was so certain I understood Xander until this book only to realize he is the epitome of the onion metaphor.
“It’s awesome, right? This stuff we do,” he says to Xander.
“How do you mean?”
“Fun. And exciting. Like making a movie, only real. It’s like an adventure.”
“Yeah. Yeah, it is.”
Despite all the seriousness there is some humor and fun times to be had with Ben and Xander. :)
Highly recommend for those who enjoy a strong BDSM element to romance with deep psychological analysis.
This is the first full length novel in this series but not a standalone.
I really enjoyed Obey the Rules mostly because Ben gets emotionally raw and Leighton Greene does an excellent job at portraying Ben's spiral.
“I feel lost. All that stuff we did, it’s all suddenly stopped and I feel out of control. I can’t get my head together some days. Like, I don’t know. Like I really am going to go supernova.”- Ben
Ben struggles immensely during this installment. To be separated from Xander when the relationship is still potent, intoxicating and fresh is the equivalent of having the rug pulled out from under him. He begins to self-destruct, his anger management issues escalate. His desperate need to be around Xander, to feel comfort, stability, security consuming him until he slips into the worst of his personality.
There is nothing perfect, smooth or consistent in this relationship. It's incredibly rocky despite the love they share. Balancing the sadistic/masochistic aspect of their sexual relationship with it's psychological effect on their emotional well being is not for the weak of mind. At the end of the day they're in uncharted territory, wading through the maelstrom to the best of their ability. I really love the raw honesty in their relationship. The violent outbursts. The emotional pain. All of which is brought to life beautifully by Green.
I have to say the most admirable thing about this series is the seriousness aspect. Their kink is dangerous and that's not dismissed. It requires a lot of control and communication. Ben and Xander both grow in Obey the Rules . They gain insight into one another's perspective. Xander begins to open up, surprisingly I was so certain I understood Xander until this book only to realize he is the epitome of the onion metaphor.
“It’s awesome, right? This stuff we do,” he says to Xander.
“How do you mean?”
“Fun. And exciting. Like making a movie, only real. It’s like an adventure.”
“Yeah. Yeah, it is.”
Despite all the seriousness there is some humor and fun times to be had with Ben and Xander. :)
Highly recommend for those who enjoy a strong BDSM element to romance with deep psychological analysis.
This is the first full length novel in this series but not a standalone.
June 1, 2024
We find that Ben is beginning to struggle with his life as well as with his kink. Xander's and his careers are going well but keeping them working on opposite sides of the country. Their relationship is still potent, intoxicating and fresh, but Ben feels like the rug is being pulled out from under him...and he begins to self-destruct, and his anger management issues start to escalate. He's needs desperately to be around Xander, in order to feel comfort, stability, and security. He's starting to slide into the worst part of his personality.
We knew from the start that there was not going to be much of anything perfect, smooth or consistent in this relationship. It's rocky despite how much they love one another. Balancing the sadistic/masochistic aspect of their sexual relationship with its psychological effect on their emotional well-being is not for the weak of mind or body. At the end of the day, they're still in uncharted territory, wading through it all to the best of their ability. There is, however, honesty in their relationship even with the violent outbursts and the emotional pain that they just can't seem to overcome.
One thing that is admirable about this series is how seriously the kink is portrayed. They're into cutting & bruising which everyone I'm sure recognizes as dangerous...and that is not ever downplayed or dismissed. It's pointed out repeatedly how much control and communication are 100% absolutely necessary. Ben and Xander both grow in this addition to the series. They gain insight into one another and into one another's perspectives. Xander begins to open up more, and surprisingly we learn that Xander has layers that have not yet even begun to be peeled.
We knew from the start that there was not going to be much of anything perfect, smooth or consistent in this relationship. It's rocky despite how much they love one another. Balancing the sadistic/masochistic aspect of their sexual relationship with its psychological effect on their emotional well-being is not for the weak of mind or body. At the end of the day, they're still in uncharted territory, wading through it all to the best of their ability. There is, however, honesty in their relationship even with the violent outbursts and the emotional pain that they just can't seem to overcome.
One thing that is admirable about this series is how seriously the kink is portrayed. They're into cutting & bruising which everyone I'm sure recognizes as dangerous...and that is not ever downplayed or dismissed. It's pointed out repeatedly how much control and communication are 100% absolutely necessary. Ben and Xander both grow in this addition to the series. They gain insight into one another and into one another's perspectives. Xander begins to open up more, and surprisingly we learn that Xander has layers that have not yet even begun to be peeled.
September 2, 2023
3.5 rounded up
Unlike the first 'book' in this series, this was written as a novel and not a serialized set of novellas, and I definitely think it's stronger for it! Continuation of the relationship and kink exploration from book one. I didn't like it quite as much as the first, partially because I found Ben to be a lot more frustrating here, which is understandable, because he (and Zander) are both struggling with their recent separation. I don't tend to love dynamic switching in BDSM books, and there's a fairly long scene with Ben domming Zander that was not my thing at all--and thankfully I think it was established it's not their thing either. I can appreciate the scene, and I do think the author is doing a good job with the messiness and nuance of their relationship and dynamic, even if it isn't entirely always my personal preference. I'm intrigued with where things ended up though, and very curious to keep reading!
Unlike the first 'book' in this series, this was written as a novel and not a serialized set of novellas, and I definitely think it's stronger for it! Continuation of the relationship and kink exploration from book one. I didn't like it quite as much as the first, partially because I found Ben to be a lot more frustrating here, which is understandable, because he (and Zander) are both struggling with their recent separation. I don't tend to love dynamic switching in BDSM books, and there's a fairly long scene with Ben domming Zander that was not my thing at all--and thankfully I think it was established it's not their thing either. I can appreciate the scene, and I do think the author is doing a good job with the messiness and nuance of their relationship and dynamic, even if it isn't entirely always my personal preference. I'm intrigued with where things ended up though, and very curious to keep reading!
March 15, 2022
This installment in the series gives us Ben struggling hard to deal with the separation from Xander, whose career is taking off with a great part in New York. Ben's also getting his first taste of success, but in LA. And the sudden disconnection from their intense BDSM (heavy on the SM) relationship is making him feel lost. It's like a giant sub-drop and occasional visits don't do enough to keep him on an even keel. He's always had anger-management issues, and this isn't helping.
In the first book, Ben comes off as a total good guy, and I liked that in this one, he gets to let people down, to complain and be human. I appreciated the arguments and the stresses as realistic. Sometimes he was whiny in a "life isn't fair" way, but it made him relatable for me.
I really enjoy watching the ups and downs of their relationship, the struggles they have to figure themselves out, and the way they try to be honest with each other and sometimes fail. Either because honesty goes places they don't want to go, or because they don't want the other person to see their cracks and flaws. The kink is heavy and potentially dangerous, and I like watching Xander try to remind Ben of that, while Ben has more trust than Xander thinks he should.
In the first book, Ben comes off as a total good guy, and I liked that in this one, he gets to let people down, to complain and be human. I appreciated the arguments and the stresses as realistic. Sometimes he was whiny in a "life isn't fair" way, but it made him relatable for me.
I really enjoy watching the ups and downs of their relationship, the struggles they have to figure themselves out, and the way they try to be honest with each other and sometimes fail. Either because honesty goes places they don't want to go, or because they don't want the other person to see their cracks and flaws. The kink is heavy and potentially dangerous, and I like watching Xander try to remind Ben of that, while Ben has more trust than Xander thinks he should.
July 2, 2023
3.5 rounded up because it's so hot and so swoony
March 26, 2020
Ok. After loving on the first 5 shorter novellas, I really didn’t enjoy this one. I think mostly because while I love power exchange, I really don’t like the fear and torture based BDSM scenes that these two get into. I don’t find it loving in the least. Its scary and definitely not something I understand or am interested in.
And the writing really dragged everything out. The first half, when they’re separated, bought out the worst in Ben. To the point where I thought he’d turned into a completely different person from the previous books. He was whiny and miserable and I understand why but it got old fast. Xander, on the other hand, started out amazing and got more confusing, as we neared the end.
What kept me reading is that these two are trying to figure it out together...mostly. I find it a novelty still that both MC’s walk a fine line between enjoying what they do together and thinking they are both totally twisted and messed up for liking the things they do together. They just can’t seem to stop. And while there was a lot of sweetness and humour in here, because being in Ben’s head is a whole lot of crazy honesty, it was way overshadowed by the dark stuff.
So it’s safe to say I didn’t really end up liking the turn the characters took in this one and the next one seems like a car crash waiting to happen. I’m not sure if I’m ready to go there yet. This one was a struggle to finish for me as it was. I honestly have no idea how this series will end, though we’re assured of a HEA.
And the writing really dragged everything out. The first half, when they’re separated, bought out the worst in Ben. To the point where I thought he’d turned into a completely different person from the previous books. He was whiny and miserable and I understand why but it got old fast. Xander, on the other hand, started out amazing and got more confusing, as we neared the end.
What kept me reading is that these two are trying to figure it out together...mostly. I find it a novelty still that both MC’s walk a fine line between enjoying what they do together and thinking they are both totally twisted and messed up for liking the things they do together. They just can’t seem to stop. And while there was a lot of sweetness and humour in here, because being in Ben’s head is a whole lot of crazy honesty, it was way overshadowed by the dark stuff.
So it’s safe to say I didn’t really end up liking the turn the characters took in this one and the next one seems like a car crash waiting to happen. I’m not sure if I’m ready to go there yet. This one was a struggle to finish for me as it was. I honestly have no idea how this series will end, though we’re assured of a HEA.
January 31, 2023
“I want to know every single part of you, inside and out. I wish I could crawl right inside your skin and bury myself—” He stops; Ben holds his breath. “Well. That’s the kind of thing I want.”
“You’re such a romantic,” Ben grins.
I like this one a liiiiittle bit more than I did the first time around; not enough to change my rating, but knowing how tings ended did do away with most of my anxiety and I was just able to really absorb the changing relationship. I just really love how this approaches the power dynamic, Ben dealing with his anger issues, Xander dealing with his insecurities. Things get so intense and uncomfortable and the author doesn't shy away from showing that, like poking persistently at a bruise. They're on a really sizeable precipice now, having overcome some pretty tough stuff, and I'm so fascinated to see where the relationship goes from here.
--
“Polaris. The North Star. It’s—it’s you.”
God, this was a weird and fascinating and unsettling but yet thoroughly romantic book. I enjoyed it so much. As always, with sequels, I won't say too much, but I continue to love this couple to pieces. I wasn't sure how I'd like following one couple for multiple books, especially as this one is so focused on kink, and a kink that I don't particularly like. But it was great; I really love the way the author approaches character growth and exploration, how they're pushing each other's boundaries and learning more about one another. It's obviously not slow burn in terms of the relationship itself, but I think it's really interesting how we get to see what their relationship looks like now that we've moved past the 'I love you', and see them working out their dynamic and their careers. Ben still has his anger issues and is dealing with Xander's fame. Xander is still kind of insecure and self-loathing (and it's so interesting, how that looks on someone who is truly confident and easy-going most of the time). This also takes a look at the darker side of things, since we are dealing with a sadist, and how the psychological side of things comes down hard on both characters. Again, super well done imo. They both make some pretty poor decisions in this one, and my heart broke for them in the moment and in the aftermath. Those things did make me love the book a little less, but I think it was necessary, and it'll make what comes next even more charged.
I kept cringing in anticipation of the plot taking certain turns, the things you'd usually expect when dealing with famous characters, but it never happened, which I'm grateful for. The romance remains really solid; I love their love and their banter. It's great when I can devour a book in a few hours. I can't wait to continue their story.
Content warnings:
“We don’t follow the rules because we’re afraid of the consequences if we don’t. We follow them because we want to. Because we choose to.”
March 16, 2020
I could cry from happiness! This series is everything. I am so in love with Xander, there is no words how amazing he is.
This book was *sigh* PERFECT. The first half was really hard to read, I hurt for Ben and Xander - and it wasn't a good hurt. Ben is so cute and so needy, and it was hard to see them apart from each other. And although it was hard to see, it was so well written. All the emotions, end everything Ben did was so real-like. This whole story is so real, and perfect in its own imperfection.
Ben and Xander's love is so beautiful. All the romance and all the kink.
"You're such a romantic," Ben grins.
"Is that what you think?" Xander asks, sounding strange. "You think fear and blood and control are romantic?"
"I don't see why they can't be?" There's still no reply, and Ben starts thinking he's been cut off. "Xander?"
"I never really thought about it like that," Xander says.
And that quote is the most perfect quote ever! Truer words never been said.
"I'd pretty much do anything if it would make you happy, Xander. Because I love you."
"Yeah," Xander says after a moment. "I love you too. In fact, if you knew how much I loved you, you'd run away screaming, that's the problem. Or maybe you wouldn't - maybe that's the problem."
And this quote here? Just AWWWWWWW♥
But the best:
"Take my world for it. I'm the van Gogh of sadomasochism."
That scene was everything. No words how good it was. And I love the fact that Ben always throws up after a hard session. That's right there makes this series real.
And when Ben was the dominant - holy heeeeelllll, I couldn't even breathe while reading that scene. It was soooo good! I need to re-read this whole series like a million times and wouldn't be enough!
All the emotions this book gives *sigh*. Xander♥♥♥
HIGHLY RECOMMEND this series. And now back to reading, because I NEED more Xander♥
This book was *sigh* PERFECT. The first half was really hard to read, I hurt for Ben and Xander - and it wasn't a good hurt. Ben is so cute and so needy, and it was hard to see them apart from each other. And although it was hard to see, it was so well written. All the emotions, end everything Ben did was so real-like. This whole story is so real, and perfect in its own imperfection.
Ben and Xander's love is so beautiful. All the romance and all the kink.
"You're such a romantic," Ben grins.
"Is that what you think?" Xander asks, sounding strange. "You think fear and blood and control are romantic?"
"I don't see why they can't be?" There's still no reply, and Ben starts thinking he's been cut off. "Xander?"
"I never really thought about it like that," Xander says.
And that quote is the most perfect quote ever! Truer words never been said.
"I'd pretty much do anything if it would make you happy, Xander. Because I love you."
"Yeah," Xander says after a moment. "I love you too. In fact, if you knew how much I loved you, you'd run away screaming, that's the problem. Or maybe you wouldn't - maybe that's the problem."
And this quote here? Just AWWWWWWW♥
But the best:
"Take my world for it. I'm the van Gogh of sadomasochism."
That scene was everything. No words how good it was. And I love the fact that Ben always throws up after a hard session. That's right there makes this series real.
And when Ben was the dominant - holy heeeeelllll, I couldn't even breathe while reading that scene. It was soooo good! I need to re-read this whole series like a million times and wouldn't be enough!
All the emotions this book gives *sigh*. Xander♥♥♥
HIGHLY RECOMMEND this series. And now back to reading, because I NEED more Xander♥
January 2, 2020
I hated Ben in this book. He was whiny, jealous, combative with everyone, and just an all around creep. I’m going to give the next book a chance, but if Ben’s sorry attitude doesn’t change. I’m done. Why read something I don’t enjoy? I’m not really into cutting each other either.
July 23, 2023
See previous review and quadruple down. Mindfucky D/s exploration that is sometimes sexy, sometimes hard to read, but always has a plan.
January 25, 2022
even higher intensity than book 1 😳
Xander leaves for NYC and Ben is a bit adrift.
The intensity of their relationship is hard to have over long distance. Ben starts to question if staying in LA was a good thing.
They have unwanted tension between them that they both do not like. Xander comes up with rules that they both need to follow. This seems to work for a time. They need to be together in person though. The distance gets to be too much.
Ben goes to NYC and they let their kink out. The bruising kink was something I’ve never really read before and was surprisingly hot.
No spoilers but Xander discovers new things about himself and so does Ben. It was scary for them both. I’m really enjoying their exploration of kink and of who they really are. It’s fascinating and VERY hot.
Off to read book 3….I already know I’m going to have a massive book hangover when I’m done with this series….😵💫😵💫😵💫
Xander leaves for NYC and Ben is a bit adrift.
The intensity of their relationship is hard to have over long distance. Ben starts to question if staying in LA was a good thing.
They have unwanted tension between them that they both do not like. Xander comes up with rules that they both need to follow. This seems to work for a time. They need to be together in person though. The distance gets to be too much.
Ben goes to NYC and they let their kink out. The bruising kink was something I’ve never really read before and was surprisingly hot.
No spoilers but Xander discovers new things about himself and so does Ben. It was scary for them both. I’m really enjoying their exploration of kink and of who they really are. It’s fascinating and VERY hot.
Off to read book 3….I already know I’m going to have a massive book hangover when I’m done with this series….😵💫😵💫😵💫
October 10, 2022
Great continuation of Ben & Xander’s story. This begins with Ben feeling a bit untethered since their separation.
It doesn’t really click with them at first but they realize Ben’s feeling sub drop from missing the intensity of their D/s relationship. Their kink has now gone from a fun new exploration for Ben, to a major aspect of their relationship. The pacing of their relationship is done really well, they are constantly evolving and understanding each other better
Ben & Xander are really cute together, I love when they are silly and playful. I like when they have fun with kinky scenes, like the sharpie scene in the first book and the puppy scene in this one. They kind of go with the flow with it, unless they are planning something intense. I like that they don’t take it so seriously all the time
It doesn’t really click with them at first but they realize Ben’s feeling sub drop from missing the intensity of their D/s relationship. Their kink has now gone from a fun new exploration for Ben, to a major aspect of their relationship. The pacing of their relationship is done really well, they are constantly evolving and understanding each other better
Ben & Xander are really cute together, I love when they are silly and playful. I like when they have fun with kinky scenes, like the sharpie scene in the first book and the puppy scene in this one. They kind of go with the flow with it, unless they are planning something intense. I like that they don’t take it so seriously all the time
April 27, 2024
Another enjoyable instalment.
I quite liked the …. finger painting, I guess we’ll call it. I love how Xander is such a stealth Sad Boy TM. and I’m interested to see how this new development pans out.
I quite liked the …. finger painting, I guess we’ll call it. I love how Xander is such a stealth Sad Boy TM. and I’m interested to see how this new development pans out.
July 11, 2024
I honestly have no idea what journey I’m on with these two, but I quite literally can’t look away.
September 1, 2023
[This review is for the entire series.]
Tags: Contemporary, BDSM, friends to FWB to lovers. Kink and bi-awakening.
OMG, THIS WAS SO GOOD!!! I bought the box set on promo because kinky fun, hell yeah, why not? Little did I know this would be one of the best things I've read in a while. It certainly starts like that: pure fun. Two friends begin a kinky FWB thing, one is an experienced Dom and hardcore sadist, the other is new to everything (kink and bi-awakening). They are both adorable dorks together, and in the beginning there are so many happy and cute vibes and it's such a seemingly healthy dynamic. As the story unfolds and as they get deeper into sadomaquism and D/s, small cracks in the relationship become bigger, and this really becomes a story about the psychological and emotional aspect of kink and about self-awareness. It gets really angsty and dark, especially in book 3. The character growth is so complex and unbelievably good. The journey is really rough and the HEA is hard won, but so worth it. One of my favorite reads of this year. Check CWs.
Tags: Contemporary, BDSM, friends to FWB to lovers. Kink and bi-awakening.
OMG, THIS WAS SO GOOD!!! I bought the box set on promo because kinky fun, hell yeah, why not? Little did I know this would be one of the best things I've read in a while. It certainly starts like that: pure fun. Two friends begin a kinky FWB thing, one is an experienced Dom and hardcore sadist, the other is new to everything (kink and bi-awakening). They are both adorable dorks together, and in the beginning there are so many happy and cute vibes and it's such a seemingly healthy dynamic. As the story unfolds and as they get deeper into sadomaquism and D/s, small cracks in the relationship become bigger, and this really becomes a story about the psychological and emotional aspect of kink and about self-awareness. It gets really angsty and dark, especially in book 3. The character growth is so complex and unbelievably good. The journey is really rough and the HEA is hard won, but so worth it. One of my favorite reads of this year. Check CWs.
July 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Obey the Rules brings the Rough Love series to a close with Ben and Xander determined to make their relationship work despite the obstacles they face. The emotional depth of their connection is stronger here, with both characters learning how to navigate fame, distance, and evolving desires. It’s a fitting end to their journey, offering a solid conclusion to their self-discovery and kink-filled romance. The emotional payoff is satisfying, making it a strong finish for the series.
Obey the Rules brings the Rough Love series to a close with Ben and Xander determined to make their relationship work despite the obstacles they face. The emotional depth of their connection is stronger here, with both characters learning how to navigate fame, distance, and evolving desires. It’s a fitting end to their journey, offering a solid conclusion to their self-discovery and kink-filled romance. The emotional payoff is satisfying, making it a strong finish for the series.
July 2, 2023
This book was a little more angsty than the serial book before this. Mostly due to the long distance relationship that Xander and Ben are navigating throughout the entire book.
There's more of a storyline in this book, probably because the two of them aren't physically together for a lot of the book. Tensions are higher, and they are trying to find their footing with the new dynamic they are in. Both of them feel insecure for different reasons, and lash out at each other.
I wish we got Xander's perspective. He keeps himself so closed off, from us and Ben, and it's starting to get really frustrating. He takes so much from Ben with their exchange, and even though he says he needs to think of it as a game, it's really not. Not to Ben. And I wish we knew why and to what extent Xander really feels what he says.
The struggle with their jobs also frustrated me quite a bit. I know they are figuring things out, trying to make everything work. But Ben is always so angry and definitely self-sabotaging sometimes with his career. But Xander also feels wishy washy with it sometimes; he tells Ben it's okay to use his name because that's the business, but then eventually admits he doesn't like it. And he knows how much it's been bothering Ben so it feels like a really big breach of trust to me.
I'm just...feeling a lot of feelings with this book. I want to see how things flesh out, but I need a break.
There's more of a storyline in this book, probably because the two of them aren't physically together for a lot of the book. Tensions are higher, and they are trying to find their footing with the new dynamic they are in. Both of them feel insecure for different reasons, and lash out at each other.
I wish we got Xander's perspective. He keeps himself so closed off, from us and Ben, and it's starting to get really frustrating. He takes so much from Ben with their exchange, and even though he says he needs to think of it as a game, it's really not. Not to Ben. And I wish we knew why and to what extent Xander really feels what he says.
The struggle with their jobs also frustrated me quite a bit. I know they are figuring things out, trying to make everything work. But Ben is always so angry and definitely self-sabotaging sometimes with his career. But Xander also feels wishy washy with it sometimes; he tells Ben it's okay to use his name because that's the business, but then eventually admits he doesn't like it. And he knows how much it's been bothering Ben so it feels like a really big breach of trust to me.
I'm just...feeling a lot of feelings with this book. I want to see how things flesh out, but I need a break.
September 16, 2024
If you're looking through reviews trying to decide if you want to buy the second book after reading the first: YES! Do it! Though be warned, the way this one ends will make you want to immediately buy the third book too.
In this instalment the boys are separated as Xander goes to work in New York, and Ben stays to work on his writing career in Los Angeles. We see just how badly the two of them struggle with the distance, but they soon make some rules and it kind of helps, for a while, until they finally get to spend time together again.
There's a lot of ups and downs in their relationship in this one, which I did really like. They struggle through a lot of things in their relationship, try some stuff that doesn't work out, have a lot of big feelings.
It's great, though. I really enjoyed this instalment.
In this instalment the boys are separated as Xander goes to work in New York, and Ben stays to work on his writing career in Los Angeles. We see just how badly the two of them struggle with the distance, but they soon make some rules and it kind of helps, for a while, until they finally get to spend time together again.
There's a lot of ups and downs in their relationship in this one, which I did really like. They struggle through a lot of things in their relationship, try some stuff that doesn't work out, have a lot of big feelings.
It's great, though. I really enjoyed this instalment.
October 4, 2021
Hot on the heels of reading the first book in this series, book two was MADDENING. (note: I read the first five parts compiled into one novels so that’s what I’m referring to here)
While I enjoyed it and devoured it at break neck speed, I was so cranky at the same time. I felt like I’d absorbed Ben’s negative energy as he navigated Xander’s absence and the loss of their dynamic.
I couldn’t help wanting them to break up, because the constant sniping at each other was endless.
This instalment didn’t hit me as hard as the first, although the kink was still brilliantly unique and left of field. I think the relationship drama just detracted from it too much, although the writing was just was fantastic and impactful.
While I enjoyed it and devoured it at break neck speed, I was so cranky at the same time. I felt like I’d absorbed Ben’s negative energy as he navigated Xander’s absence and the loss of their dynamic.
I couldn’t help wanting them to break up, because the constant sniping at each other was endless.
This instalment didn’t hit me as hard as the first, although the kink was still brilliantly unique and left of field. I think the relationship drama just detracted from it too much, although the writing was just was fantastic and impactful.
May 24, 2023
*2.5 stars*
This story is a continuation of Xander and Benjamin’s relationship, continued in third person. It’s more of the same. We see more BDSM, more of the protagonists figuring out new scenes, roles, and responsibilities. All this while both are trying to be successful in their respective careers.
I found this story to be boring. Ben was bitchy, Xander was often unsure of himself. Most of the story (95%) was them preparing for sex, having sex, and recovering from sex. The couple spend time arguing or disagreeing. We briefly experience a couple of secondary characters.
I wanted to skim. In one chapter, I did.
I’ll continue the series, just to see what happens. But I’ll probably take a break from this author for the time being.
This story is a continuation of Xander and Benjamin’s relationship, continued in third person. It’s more of the same. We see more BDSM, more of the protagonists figuring out new scenes, roles, and responsibilities. All this while both are trying to be successful in their respective careers.
I found this story to be boring. Ben was bitchy, Xander was often unsure of himself. Most of the story (95%) was them preparing for sex, having sex, and recovering from sex. The couple spend time arguing or disagreeing. We briefly experience a couple of secondary characters.
I wanted to skim. In one chapter, I did.
I’ll continue the series, just to see what happens. But I’ll probably take a break from this author for the time being.
December 6, 2021
Al principio me estresó bastante el comportamiento de Ben y las constantes peleas entre él y Xander por cosas insignificantes PERO la química, amor e intensidad entre ellos siempre ha estado ahí y hace que valga la pena leerlos.
Estoy intrigada y me emociona ver hacia donde se dirige su relación y si fue buena o mala la decisión que tomaron al final.
En conclusión, me gustan muchísimo como pareja, su dinámica y el conocer cada vez más de su relación, me encanta, no es para nada aburrido porque cada vez van descubriendo más cosas sobre ellos mismos; son personajes muy bien desarrollados que se sienten como personas reales.
Estoy intrigada y me emociona ver hacia donde se dirige su relación y si fue buena o mala la decisión que tomaron al final.
En conclusión, me gustan muchísimo como pareja, su dinámica y el conocer cada vez más de su relación, me encanta, no es para nada aburrido porque cada vez van descubriendo más cosas sobre ellos mismos; son personajes muy bien desarrollados que se sienten como personas reales.
October 18, 2023
2.5 rounded up.
I didn't like this as much as I liked the first 5 novellas. I didn't like how much bickering went on between Ben and Xander, and the plot fell flat. Most of the time it felt ignored in favour or smut and bickering, which would be fine if the first half of the book hadn't set up some plot points. I presume it'll be addressed in part 7 and 8, but it ended too abruptly for my tastes.
The spice and kink also felt a lot less than what was done in books 1-5. Knowing how spicy it could get made this book feel a little flat.
Overall, okay, but not amazing. I will finish the series but this one disappointed me quite a bit.
I didn't like this as much as I liked the first 5 novellas. I didn't like how much bickering went on between Ben and Xander, and the plot fell flat. Most of the time it felt ignored in favour or smut and bickering, which would be fine if the first half of the book hadn't set up some plot points. I presume it'll be addressed in part 7 and 8, but it ended too abruptly for my tastes.
The spice and kink also felt a lot less than what was done in books 1-5. Knowing how spicy it could get made this book feel a little flat.
Overall, okay, but not amazing. I will finish the series but this one disappointed me quite a bit.
January 30, 2025
Tasty!!!😏😍
I love this deeper dive into Alexander and Benjamin. The evolution is such a delicious slide into their psyches. The human condition is our thoughts made flesh. And it is exciting to see other's point of views to expand our own. These two are sensual and adventurous. Their vulnerability digs itself into your mind and settles in for the long haul. This continuing conversation between Alexander and Benjamin is sexy and fulfilling. Highly recommended! 😘 (be kind to yourself...check the triggers!)😶
I love this deeper dive into Alexander and Benjamin. The evolution is such a delicious slide into their psyches. The human condition is our thoughts made flesh. And it is exciting to see other's point of views to expand our own. These two are sensual and adventurous. Their vulnerability digs itself into your mind and settles in for the long haul. This continuing conversation between Alexander and Benjamin is sexy and fulfilling. Highly recommended! 😘 (be kind to yourself...check the triggers!)😶
March 27, 2022
There cannot be light without shadow.
I really like the dichotomy between these two so far. It's interesting to see Xander deal with his conflict over his more sadistic tendencies. This particular volume read more is a bridge between book one and book three then as a full standalone. It was like the two of them were negotiating their way from point A to point B. On that note however, I'm definitely looking forward to the next volume.
I really like the dichotomy between these two so far. It's interesting to see Xander deal with his conflict over his more sadistic tendencies. This particular volume read more is a bridge between book one and book three then as a full standalone. It was like the two of them were negotiating their way from point A to point B. On that note however, I'm definitely looking forward to the next volume.
May 2, 2020
Obey the Rules: Rough Love 6
Well this series of books is really getting serious.
Xander and Ben relationship is the Yin and Yang of life.
Ben wants to understand Xander so badly and both are so insecure to realize they actually need each other. Looking forward to the next installment in this series.
Well this series of books is really getting serious.
Xander and Ben relationship is the Yin and Yang of life.
Ben wants to understand Xander so badly and both are so insecure to realize they actually need each other. Looking forward to the next installment in this series.
June 24, 2024
I liked reading about the progression in their relationship amd their struggles. The MMC were a bit annoying at times and the bsdm weren't as hot as in the first book.
I still love this couple and am interested to see how they will evolve and how their total power exchange will go. Hopefully it will be very sexy
I still love this couple and am interested to see how they will evolve and how their total power exchange will go. Hopefully it will be very sexy
April 21, 2021
Long-distance relationships are hard, and one with a not insignificant dash of kink involved can be harder. Ben and Xander continue to be addictive characters in a story that I can't put down. (Seriously, I stayed up way to late finishing this book.)
November 4, 2023
DNF I read a lot of BDSM and had no issue with the subject matter, rather I just felt like there was a major emotional disconnect between the two mains and that I didn't feel the spark or draw or yearning in the relationship. I just found their connection shallow and forced. It wasn't for me.
March 21, 2020
Real damn enjoyable!
Note: rating is for the entire series (including the newsletter freebie) rather than the individual books. Book one’s entry contains my shelf listing.
Note: rating is for the entire series (including the newsletter freebie) rather than the individual books. Book one’s entry contains my shelf listing.
April 12, 2020
Love the series
But omg could they stop being wishy washy in this book. The interior drama got old fast. But the series is a great read.
But omg could they stop being wishy washy in this book. The interior drama got old fast. But the series is a great read.
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