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The Outreach #1
Can You See Me?
Josh needs a Dom. Mal needs an education. Could this be mutually beneficial?
This is The Outreach, where the kink curious can have their desires analysed, their cravings explained, and if they are lucky, find the right kind of someone to meet their needs.
It’s brand new and causing waves, politically and socially. Some see it as a green light for deviancy, for others it’s their last chance to understand why they want the things they want.
MAL
When my boss sent me on this assignment I thought I was writing a fluff piece, a sly little dig at the newest psychobabble trend to hitch itself to the “discover yourself” gravy train. I was wrong. It seems these guys actually know what they are talking about, and what they are saying is resonating inside me on a primal level. It’s making me feel all kinds of stupid about how I've played in the past, and all kinds of fascinated for how to scene in the future. I'm revising this story, and I'm going to learn everything The Outreach has to offer.
JOSH
I’m not doing so great. I’ve not been doing great for a long time. It’s easy to blame it on my service, to be that PTSD veteran, but it’s more than that. There is this need inside me that I never explored and then the trauma denied me the freedom to even consider it. I don't know if this Outreach thing can help me, but with their science and their skills they can tell me the kind of man I could have been, the kind of love I could have had, and there is some comfort in that. I might be too old and too damaged to ever truly experience my desires, but I want to know, just for myself, just for the record, which way I am tilted.
Two very different men, two very different reasons to be where they are, but The Outreach will bring them together and help them see themselves and each other.
Can You See Me? is the first book in the Outreach Series, set in the same universe as Romilly King's acclaimed Delphic Agency Series of gay romance novels - It brings back favourite characters from Delphic and is a slow burn romance with realistic kink exploration, themes of hurt and comfort, a dom who thought he knew it all, and a damaged sub who is too ashamed to kneel. There will be a happy ever after.
This is The Outreach, where the kink curious can have their desires analysed, their cravings explained, and if they are lucky, find the right kind of someone to meet their needs.
It’s brand new and causing waves, politically and socially. Some see it as a green light for deviancy, for others it’s their last chance to understand why they want the things they want.
MAL
When my boss sent me on this assignment I thought I was writing a fluff piece, a sly little dig at the newest psychobabble trend to hitch itself to the “discover yourself” gravy train. I was wrong. It seems these guys actually know what they are talking about, and what they are saying is resonating inside me on a primal level. It’s making me feel all kinds of stupid about how I've played in the past, and all kinds of fascinated for how to scene in the future. I'm revising this story, and I'm going to learn everything The Outreach has to offer.
JOSH
I’m not doing so great. I’ve not been doing great for a long time. It’s easy to blame it on my service, to be that PTSD veteran, but it’s more than that. There is this need inside me that I never explored and then the trauma denied me the freedom to even consider it. I don't know if this Outreach thing can help me, but with their science and their skills they can tell me the kind of man I could have been, the kind of love I could have had, and there is some comfort in that. I might be too old and too damaged to ever truly experience my desires, but I want to know, just for myself, just for the record, which way I am tilted.
Two very different men, two very different reasons to be where they are, but The Outreach will bring them together and help them see themselves and each other.
Can You See Me? is the first book in the Outreach Series, set in the same universe as Romilly King's acclaimed Delphic Agency Series of gay romance novels - It brings back favourite characters from Delphic and is a slow burn romance with realistic kink exploration, themes of hurt and comfort, a dom who thought he knew it all, and a damaged sub who is too ashamed to kneel. There will be a happy ever after.
131 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 7, 2021
48 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 7, 2021
This author commits plagiarism
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August 6, 2021Removing my rating after hearing that this series may have been plagiarised from Ao3 fanfiction
This is a new author for me and I must say that I will be back! After reading this book, I am super intrigued by the Delphic Agency series, so they'll be going on my tbr list pronto!
I have really, really, REALLY enjoyed this book. However, there were a couple of things I didn't like. Let's get those out of the way first:
- I didn't get the age difference between Josh and Mal. We know that Josh is in his early 40s and towards the end of the book it's mentioned that Mal is 20 years younger. It just sounds very implaussible that Mal is in his early 20s when in theory he is a seasoned journalist with lots of experience behind him. For a while I thought that maybe the age gap was 10 years or so, making Mal in his 30s - that would have made more sense. But when I read the 20 year gap, I just didn't see it.
- Also, the author needs a proofreader ASAP. There were grammar, spelling and punctuation mistakes all over the text. The punctuation was a big issue for me. Some sentences I had to re-read several times because crucial commas were missing, giving the sentence slightly different meaning depending where the pause was.
HOWEVER...
That being said, I was pulled like a giant magnet to the story. I was hooked from the introduction, where the world is explained and the setting in which this agency and side project came to be. The characters... wow. You very rarely find complex characters like Josh around. His trauma is not thrown around like some books treat PTSD or anxiety. And the way Mal and Josh blend is just beautiful to witness. I just wish the book had had a few more chapters, delving deeper into their growing relationship.
I also liked that, despite not having read the previous books, the introduction of the characters was very cleverly done. At no point I felt like I was missing out part of the plot or who they may have been in their own previous stories. It is a big bug bear of mine that I pick up a book that in theory can be read as standalone, only to realise that I am missing lots of the dynamics with the secondary characters. I felt really connected with Cash and Tay, even if this was not their story. I love finding that in books.
I have really, really, REALLY enjoyed this book. However, there were a couple of things I didn't like. Let's get those out of the way first:
- I didn't get the age difference between Josh and Mal. We know that Josh is in his early 40s and towards the end of the book it's mentioned that Mal is 20 years younger. It just sounds very implaussible that Mal is in his early 20s when in theory he is a seasoned journalist with lots of experience behind him. For a while I thought that maybe the age gap was 10 years or so, making Mal in his 30s - that would have made more sense. But when I read the 20 year gap, I just didn't see it.
- Also, the author needs a proofreader ASAP. There were grammar, spelling and punctuation mistakes all over the text. The punctuation was a big issue for me. Some sentences I had to re-read several times because crucial commas were missing, giving the sentence slightly different meaning depending where the pause was.
HOWEVER...
That being said, I was pulled like a giant magnet to the story. I was hooked from the introduction, where the world is explained and the setting in which this agency and side project came to be. The characters... wow. You very rarely find complex characters like Josh around. His trauma is not thrown around like some books treat PTSD or anxiety. And the way Mal and Josh blend is just beautiful to witness. I just wish the book had had a few more chapters, delving deeper into their growing relationship.
I also liked that, despite not having read the previous books, the introduction of the characters was very cleverly done. At no point I felt like I was missing out part of the plot or who they may have been in their own previous stories. It is a big bug bear of mine that I pick up a book that in theory can be read as standalone, only to realise that I am missing lots of the dynamics with the secondary characters. I felt really connected with Cash and Tay, even if this was not their story. I love finding that in books.
January 7, 2021
I am so excited and happy to be back in the Delphic universe - this new, Outreach series is looking really good and I can't wait to read more.
Mal and Josh story was mostly an intro to this new series, so the romance/erotica was a bit in the background, but I didn't mind it because I enjoyed reading the book.
Both characters were interesting, but Josh was my ultimate favorite, I could connect with him and his PTSD was so well written and so emotional, that side of the story was the best.
I liked that other characters from the Delphic series were there and played this much role in this book, it was really good to be back with them again and to see them after their HEA - I always love a bit sneek peak into others life; and if we're talking about peeking into others life... oh well! The voyeour kink, man, I looooved it! One of my favorite kink and it was so well written.
I loved the connection between Mal and Josh, loved the age gap and the virgin theme too. Josh was an adorable one, I really liked him.
"Twinks are like Jägerbombs, they're what you start with when you are young and horny and don't know any better."
I enjoyed reading this book, but because it wasn't romance enough for me - I couldn't see that connection between Mal and Josh, I haven't see them fall in love - it's only a 4 star for me. And I really can't wait to read more - we're talking about Romilly King, so give me all the books!!!
My favorite quote from the book is this, because this tells so much about a BDSM relationship and why it's unique:
"I want to break him so I can put him back together and have him understand his worth."
Mal and Josh story was mostly an intro to this new series, so the romance/erotica was a bit in the background, but I didn't mind it because I enjoyed reading the book.
Both characters were interesting, but Josh was my ultimate favorite, I could connect with him and his PTSD was so well written and so emotional, that side of the story was the best.
I liked that other characters from the Delphic series were there and played this much role in this book, it was really good to be back with them again and to see them after their HEA - I always love a bit sneek peak into others life; and if we're talking about peeking into others life... oh well! The voyeour kink, man, I looooved it! One of my favorite kink and it was so well written.
I loved the connection between Mal and Josh, loved the age gap and the virgin theme too. Josh was an adorable one, I really liked him.
"Twinks are like Jägerbombs, they're what you start with when you are young and horny and don't know any better."
I enjoyed reading this book, but because it wasn't romance enough for me - I couldn't see that connection between Mal and Josh, I haven't see them fall in love - it's only a 4 star for me. And I really can't wait to read more - we're talking about Romilly King, so give me all the books!!!
My favorite quote from the book is this, because this tells so much about a BDSM relationship and why it's unique:
"I want to break him so I can put him back together and have him understand his worth."
August 8, 2021
DNF - the author has plagiarized at least 4 of their books. I don't support thieves
January 26, 2021
Well I just simply loved this book!
Not sure what I was expecting but damn it was so much more!
To really see the individual lives of Mal and Josh melt together so perfectly into such a world of comfort and trust. Ah!
Mal definitely needed an education true, but he took it in strides and really listened and learned to be able to apply and with that he built something so heart thumping with his older sub who in turn just needed a firm hand to be there and pull him out the other side when he crashed!
Love it!
Not sure what I was expecting but damn it was so much more!
To really see the individual lives of Mal and Josh melt together so perfectly into such a world of comfort and trust. Ah!
Mal definitely needed an education true, but he took it in strides and really listened and learned to be able to apply and with that he built something so heart thumping with his older sub who in turn just needed a firm hand to be there and pull him out the other side when he crashed!
Love it!
January 8, 2021
Okay I read this as a standalone as not having read the prior series before but yah probably needs to be read in order.. I think this book is of when BDSM meets science's and turns into a Love Match story.
I loved the inner thoughts of each character in this. Mal is definite younger Dom who's had ssmall part with BDSM world. Includes voyeur sex scenes, ptsd attacks, soft bdsm scenes and more. Brilliantly written with both POVs, I liked the story although the science info I wasn't into..
Mal was asked to write an article for the Outreach Project for his boss and gets a hands on experience.
Josh 43 yrs was untrained submissive is coasting along by being disassociated. Badly effected with PTSD from his service being captured he needed help.
I loved the inner thoughts of each character in this. Mal is definite younger Dom who's had ssmall part with BDSM world. Includes voyeur sex scenes, ptsd attacks, soft bdsm scenes and more. Brilliantly written with both POVs, I liked the story although the science info I wasn't into..
Mal was asked to write an article for the Outreach Project for his boss and gets a hands on experience.
Josh 43 yrs was untrained submissive is coasting along by being disassociated. Badly effected with PTSD from his service being captured he needed help.
February 15, 2021
I did enjoy this but immediately after chapter 1, I wish I would’ve started with the Paid to Kneel (The Delphic Agency #1) as this series is a spin-off of those books and this “world” started there. The characters from that series already overlap in this book and I’m sure more characters will also cross over in future books. You can kind of tell that Tay and Cash had a backstory and while it isn’t relevant to this specific book, I still felt like I was missing something. Maybe it’s just me, but I want all the background info before I start reading or I feel confused.
Aside from the point above, I absolutely enjoyed this book. I’m not super into BDSM and I don’t go pick those type of books to read on purpose but I’m really glad I read this one. I felt that it was well done and still something that even those who don’t love this particular type of kink will still enjoy.
Mal (23ish years old?) was a definite asshole at the beginning of the book. He got off on “being rough” and telling submissives what to do, and that was the end of it. He’s a journalist with an assignment to write a piece on what The Outreach does and he ends up learning a lot about himself, where he went wrong in the past, and he also meets Josh along the way.
Josh is a veteran, 43 years old, has very little sexual experience, never been kissed.. and he has PTSD stemming from a situation he had when captured overseas. He feels shame for his sexual feelings and what kinks he likes, so The Outreach sets him up with Mal to work through it.
I absolutely loved reading their interactions with each other and seeing how they worked so well together. It was so sad how Josh put himself down for so many things and thought he would never be worthy of someone young, hot, and experienced like Mal.
Overall, definitely worth the read and the epilogue gave a sneak peak into what we’ll be reading in book 2. I hope to see more of Mal and Josh in there as well.
POV: Dual 1st person
Aside from the point above, I absolutely enjoyed this book. I’m not super into BDSM and I don’t go pick those type of books to read on purpose but I’m really glad I read this one. I felt that it was well done and still something that even those who don’t love this particular type of kink will still enjoy.
Mal (23ish years old?) was a definite asshole at the beginning of the book. He got off on “being rough” and telling submissives what to do, and that was the end of it. He’s a journalist with an assignment to write a piece on what The Outreach does and he ends up learning a lot about himself, where he went wrong in the past, and he also meets Josh along the way.
Josh is a veteran, 43 years old, has very little sexual experience, never been kissed.. and he has PTSD stemming from a situation he had when captured overseas. He feels shame for his sexual feelings and what kinks he likes, so The Outreach sets him up with Mal to work through it.
I absolutely loved reading their interactions with each other and seeing how they worked so well together. It was so sad how Josh put himself down for so many things and thought he would never be worthy of someone young, hot, and experienced like Mal.
“I see you, soldier boy, I see you and I will always see you, not what you think you are, but what you really are, and you are amazing.”
Overall, definitely worth the read and the epilogue gave a sneak peak into what we’ll be reading in book 2. I hope to see more of Mal and Josh in there as well.
POV: Dual 1st person
May 14, 2021
Mal es asignado a realizar un reportaje de la nueva fundacion The Outreach, pero piensa que no es otra cosa que un club BDSM que busca candidatos para la Agencia Delphic. Lo que no espera es que el examen psico-fisico que le realizan le revelen tantas partes de su personalidad que nunca ha querido explorar, esto le abrira sus ojos a una nueva forma de vivir mas completamente y satisfactoriamente.
Josh es un veterano del ejercito, dado de baja por presentar PTSD, pero su vida de civil no es lo qu esperaba, le falta la estructura del ejercito, las reglas y responsabilidades claras, por eso su terapista le recomendo que fuera a The Outreach para una consulta a ver si podian ayudarlo.
Cuando resulta que Josh es un sumiso que depende de un dominante absoluto para poder vivir feliz, Cash decide pedirle a Mal que lo ayude, de esa forma la pareja Dom/Sub puede aprender de esta nueva forma de vida y ver a donde les conduce.
Pero por supuesto, la relacion entre Dom/Sub entre ellos comienza a ser mas y mas personal, hasta llegar a un nivel intimo y ambos lucharan para ser realmente lo que uno necesita del otro.
Es una buena dinamica para un libro, toca algunos temas delicados, como son los veteranos mayores con PTSD, tambien habla mucho de la intolerancia que todavia existe en el mundo, y en como la diferencia de edad y forma de vida puede impartar a la gente de maneras profundas.
El tema que trata me gusto mucho, porque es tratado de forma serie, y aunque no profundicen realmente en lo que se trata la enfermedad, si hablan de las consecuencias a nivel psicologico que sufren los veteranos del ejercito.
Tambien el libro tiene una trama estable, y no solo basada en las relacion BDSM de la pareja, sino tambien en la comunidad y en como la gente de apie ve ese mundo, te lleva a reflexionar en como es el mundo real y porque estamos como estamos.
Ahora, tambien hace uso de los personajes mas importantes de la serie original (The Delphic Agency), lo que hace que la lectura sea divertida y entretenida. En fin, voy a terminar con esta serie y espero que continue de esa forma.
Josh es un veterano del ejercito, dado de baja por presentar PTSD, pero su vida de civil no es lo qu esperaba, le falta la estructura del ejercito, las reglas y responsabilidades claras, por eso su terapista le recomendo que fuera a The Outreach para una consulta a ver si podian ayudarlo.
Cuando resulta que Josh es un sumiso que depende de un dominante absoluto para poder vivir feliz, Cash decide pedirle a Mal que lo ayude, de esa forma la pareja Dom/Sub puede aprender de esta nueva forma de vida y ver a donde les conduce.
Pero por supuesto, la relacion entre Dom/Sub entre ellos comienza a ser mas y mas personal, hasta llegar a un nivel intimo y ambos lucharan para ser realmente lo que uno necesita del otro.
Es una buena dinamica para un libro, toca algunos temas delicados, como son los veteranos mayores con PTSD, tambien habla mucho de la intolerancia que todavia existe en el mundo, y en como la diferencia de edad y forma de vida puede impartar a la gente de maneras profundas.
El tema que trata me gusto mucho, porque es tratado de forma serie, y aunque no profundicen realmente en lo que se trata la enfermedad, si hablan de las consecuencias a nivel psicologico que sufren los veteranos del ejercito.
Tambien el libro tiene una trama estable, y no solo basada en las relacion BDSM de la pareja, sino tambien en la comunidad y en como la gente de apie ve ese mundo, te lleva a reflexionar en como es el mundo real y porque estamos como estamos.
Ahora, tambien hace uso de los personajes mas importantes de la serie original (The Delphic Agency), lo que hace que la lectura sea divertida y entretenida. En fin, voy a terminar con esta serie y espero que continue de esa forma.
January 30, 2021
Wow
Really loved the story. Loved getting to see Tay and cash again and how they are together. We get glimpses of Michael. Really like how the story brought you Mal and how he initially approached the story thinking one way and essentially being prejudiced about the story and topic before he even got there. Then having his world turned upside down. Loved pop Josh and the horrible things he has gone through and suffered. Loved how Mal has such empathy to want to help and how the instantly connect. They blossom beautifully and it was precious to see them both flourish and heal one another. Can’t wait for next story.
Really loved the story. Loved getting to see Tay and cash again and how they are together. We get glimpses of Michael. Really like how the story brought you Mal and how he initially approached the story thinking one way and essentially being prejudiced about the story and topic before he even got there. Then having his world turned upside down. Loved pop Josh and the horrible things he has gone through and suffered. Loved how Mal has such empathy to want to help and how the instantly connect. They blossom beautifully and it was precious to see them both flourish and heal one another. Can’t wait for next story.
January 24, 2021
I have only one complaint about this book. It’s not long enough. I just adore reading the terrific stories that Romilly King writes about people finding someone who matches up with them kink wise and the love stories that come from those connections. I also really enjoy the way people from other books pop up in new books so we can see how they are doing. Yes these books are focused around kink but ultimately they are about meeting someone who fulfills you and who you can make a (kinky) life with and that is what romance is all about. I recommend all of this authors work which started great and has only gotten better.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2021
Wonderful spinoff!!
This definitely cements in as a ROM fan. I love this spinoff from the Delphic Agency to the Outreach Project. I get educated and entertained at the same time. Love all the love, trust, care and relationships/friendships. Mal coming into his own and Josh getting the attention and care he needs. Real special. Love their blossoming relationship and bond. So many feels with this story and none were bad. I'm already chopping at the bit for the next tale...bring it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This definitely cements in as a ROM fan. I love this spinoff from the Delphic Agency to the Outreach Project. I get educated and entertained at the same time. Love all the love, trust, care and relationships/friendships. Mal coming into his own and Josh getting the attention and care he needs. Real special. Love their blossoming relationship and bond. So many feels with this story and none were bad. I'm already chopping at the bit for the next tale...bring it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2021
Can you see me? Is a futuristic MM romance that uses AI to pair romantic partners up according to thier sexual preferences.
It was very interesting and the dynamic and possibility of it are quite interesting.
If your looking for something different this definitely has that.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was very interesting and the dynamic and possibility of it are quite interesting.
If your looking for something different this definitely has that.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 11, 2021
So Good!!
This book was incredible! It looks at the next phase of the Delphic Agency...specifically their Outreach Program which allows the general public to benefit from all the scientific research that Delphic perfected. Josh and Mal seem to be a perfect match as far as checking off all their kink needs and desires, but they are both new to their truths and unsure if they are ready to be active participants. After a brief introduction, they are left alone to see how they interact. What follows is an incredible journey of trust, communication, respect, and the freedom to explore hidden desires and passions that have been hidden in the deepest recesses of the mind. Their growth is magical and comforting in its rawness. I loved how in tune they became...trusting that whatever encounter they had....would be consensual and very fulfilling. I highly recommend this book and if you haven't read the Delphic Agency series, grab them! They are phenomenal! Romilly King creates a world I love to get lost in.
This book was incredible! It looks at the next phase of the Delphic Agency...specifically their Outreach Program which allows the general public to benefit from all the scientific research that Delphic perfected. Josh and Mal seem to be a perfect match as far as checking off all their kink needs and desires, but they are both new to their truths and unsure if they are ready to be active participants. After a brief introduction, they are left alone to see how they interact. What follows is an incredible journey of trust, communication, respect, and the freedom to explore hidden desires and passions that have been hidden in the deepest recesses of the mind. Their growth is magical and comforting in its rawness. I loved how in tune they became...trusting that whatever encounter they had....would be consensual and very fulfilling. I highly recommend this book and if you haven't read the Delphic Agency series, grab them! They are phenomenal! Romilly King creates a world I love to get lost in.
January 16, 2021
Highly recommend this unless you have severe PTSD or similar, read about the author first
I loved the Delphic Agency series & this builds from there. All the books are worth reading in order. There’s so many layers to this one, it’s an excellent read, a moving story & brings back Tay & Cash in a perfect scene. Had to investigate the Wheel of Consent, nothing better than learning something whilst enjoying a great book
I loved the Delphic Agency series & this builds from there. All the books are worth reading in order. There’s so many layers to this one, it’s an excellent read, a moving story & brings back Tay & Cash in a perfect scene. Had to investigate the Wheel of Consent, nothing better than learning something whilst enjoying a great book
January 14, 2021
World I Wish We Had
There's probably a German word for the sensation of being nostalgic for a place you've never been. That's how I feel about the Delphi Agency world. This latest book was so good.
There's probably a German word for the sensation of being nostalgic for a place you've never been. That's how I feel about the Delphi Agency world. This latest book was so good.
January 13, 2021
This is an off shoot of the Delphic Agency specifically the Outreach program. The story focuses on Josh and Mal. Josh suffers from PTSD. His story was well written and very emotional for me. Mal had a clear desire to take control and I thought he was a perfect foil for Josh. Loved this story sooo much! I’m voluntarily leaving a review form an advanced copy that I received.
January 8, 2021
Mental Health Positive
As a Licensed Therapist, I want to say thank you to the author for writing Josh’s story. Our world likes to promote that we should never be in pain and always happy, but that isn’t how life works. Reading Josh’s story in the context of PTSD/MM/Kink allows readers the chance to explore trauma healing with a range of possibilities. This is a wonderful story of imperfect people, in a messy world, who still find beauty in themselves and the world.
As a Licensed Therapist, I want to say thank you to the author for writing Josh’s story. Our world likes to promote that we should never be in pain and always happy, but that isn’t how life works. Reading Josh’s story in the context of PTSD/MM/Kink allows readers the chance to explore trauma healing with a range of possibilities. This is a wonderful story of imperfect people, in a messy world, who still find beauty in themselves and the world.
January 21, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up. I liked the hurt/comfort aspect of the book; I liked the characters; I liked bdsm being shown in its true lights and how it can be a force for healing and self-realization. This would absolutely have rated 4.5 stars for me if we had been shown more of the MCs deep interactions - they're "primal", please show how that's different from other kinds of bdsm relationships. Also, while I hurt for him, being triggered in such a horrible way, Josh's breakthrough felt like there should have been more physical struggle since that had been shown to be one of his deeper unmet needs. All-in-all, I look forward to the next book in the series and will now be going back to read her earlier work.
August 5, 2021
8/5/2021 FYI this author has apparently plagiarized from fanfic sites. Some of their works have been pulled from Amazon. It is extremely disappointing to see that any author would steal someone else’s work.
A short but super interesting novella. I liked the world the author created and the characters. There were times I wished things were drawn out a bit, but as a novella this hit all the high points it needed to. I loved how positive this book was, and I really enjoyed the learning experience. The description of a ds relationship and the dynamic was really beautiful and well done. Highly recommend for a short, interesting romance read with a bit of spice to it.
A short but super interesting novella. I liked the world the author created and the characters. There were times I wished things were drawn out a bit, but as a novella this hit all the high points it needed to. I loved how positive this book was, and I really enjoyed the learning experience. The description of a ds relationship and the dynamic was really beautiful and well done. Highly recommend for a short, interesting romance read with a bit of spice to it.
Read
August 5, 2021I have been made aware that a significant portion of this author's catalog are plagiarized from fanfiction. I have removed my ratings and reviews, but I am leaving this record of having read the book for my own tracking purposes. I originally read this book via Kindle Unlimited.
August 22, 2021
Irony, thy name is King. (Who is crap at aftercare!) :-(
This one will be long but honest & with no real spoilers...
I have read the series leading to this one, and though the stories are good, they always seem to lack just a little something that leaves me feeling less than satisfied. Yes, there are quiet a few editing issues but they're not the reason. And as has been said, King writes the supposed-to-be American characters, in America, with too much British terminology and mostly British spellings (which is somewhat believable in Michael's book, having spent so much of his life in the UK, but is completely distracting in the rest.). But I mean something more essential to the story is missing.
It's taken me a few re-reads of the books to figure it out; but Mal & Josh's story- probably because of the irony of discovering it here- made the missing ingredient clear. The HEA is told but not shown. The same is true for the climax and resolution of the conflicts. The short bonus novellas that followed the first two books righted it to a degree but the author seems to have fallen back into the pattern of...orgasm denial, for lack of a better term? She takes us right to the points of the climactic change but then leaves us short; as if she leaves us in reader--drop (my word for a sort of literary sub-drop)? Which, as the heading of this review says, is truly ironic. It is the opposite of what the takeaway/message/theme/moral for each of the books up to this point is supposed to be about. So basically, the BDSM writer lacks the skill of aftercare- something a few of her Dom MCs are supposed to learn in their books. Primal play is the big kink for this couple, it's mentioned again and again and then PLOP, we're TOLD, as an afterthought, that they finally experienced it. If you don't think you can write it or if you're too tired what was the point?!?! Neither the character nor the reader get to experience the fight or the HEA, only lead ins. King leaves the characters to pretty much tell you what the takeaway is instead of actually writing it.
For instance, Mal helps Josh by teaching him that orgasm control means more than just denial; it means the person you are placing that control in the hands of, will give you what you need, when you need. For Josh that's freely and often. King fails to do that for her reader AND the MCs, more so in this story than in the previous. She leads us to the conflict, gives us some peek at the turning points but often stops and tells us how the MC's got through the struggle. Almost as if afraid she'd get it wrong, didn't actually know what words or actions the characters would use or maybe she was simply not emotionally able to go through it with them? I'm not sure why, but it's a bit of a cop out, if not a betrayal to her would-be-amazing characters who have been brave enough to open themselves up to one another's fear, pain, and what they view as weakness. Writing books about coming to terms, accepting and finally overcoming your issues and finding love is what these 2 series on D/S and BDSM revolve around. Yet those scenes are incomplete or missing all together. The writer absolutely has a talent because I have kept reading even when I've been left feeling disappointed. And it's not the sex scenes, though the sexual climaxes fall short in this one. It's that the showing dies and there's just a tell of flat line (I really don't know how else to explain it). It's a true shame and something the editor should have pushed the writer on. The beta readers (as I read on the writer's FB group) were as taken with the characters, scene lead-ins, and eroticism as I was and so maybe didn't notice; but after consecutively reading up to this series I couldn't help but finally get what was missing. The writer's natural talent can only go so far, skill and work have to be put into practice in writing the hard and happy scenes, the actual details, words, actions. Show don't just tell! We need to SEE the character get past the fight to the small little resolutions before the big one. So not only is the big pay off at the end served to you cold but so is the falling action and resolutions through out.
Please, fix this, as your characters and story concepts are really good! You just can't take a plot point and stick it in as a few sentences; you must write the scene. Otherwise, you will continue to cheat your characters and the readers who pay to read about their journey.
This one will be long but honest & with no real spoilers...
I have read the series leading to this one, and though the stories are good, they always seem to lack just a little something that leaves me feeling less than satisfied. Yes, there are quiet a few editing issues but they're not the reason. And as has been said, King writes the supposed-to-be American characters, in America, with too much British terminology and mostly British spellings (which is somewhat believable in Michael's book, having spent so much of his life in the UK, but is completely distracting in the rest.). But I mean something more essential to the story is missing.
It's taken me a few re-reads of the books to figure it out; but Mal & Josh's story- probably because of the irony of discovering it here- made the missing ingredient clear. The HEA is told but not shown. The same is true for the climax and resolution of the conflicts. The short bonus novellas that followed the first two books righted it to a degree but the author seems to have fallen back into the pattern of...orgasm denial, for lack of a better term? She takes us right to the points of the climactic change but then leaves us short; as if she leaves us in reader--drop (my word for a sort of literary sub-drop)? Which, as the heading of this review says, is truly ironic. It is the opposite of what the takeaway/message/theme/moral for each of the books up to this point is supposed to be about. So basically, the BDSM writer lacks the skill of aftercare- something a few of her Dom MCs are supposed to learn in their books. Primal play is the big kink for this couple, it's mentioned again and again and then PLOP, we're TOLD, as an afterthought, that they finally experienced it. If you don't think you can write it or if you're too tired what was the point?!?! Neither the character nor the reader get to experience the fight or the HEA, only lead ins. King leaves the characters to pretty much tell you what the takeaway is instead of actually writing it.
For instance, Mal helps Josh by teaching him that orgasm control means more than just denial; it means the person you are placing that control in the hands of, will give you what you need, when you need. For Josh that's freely and often. King fails to do that for her reader AND the MCs, more so in this story than in the previous. She leads us to the conflict, gives us some peek at the turning points but often stops and tells us how the MC's got through the struggle. Almost as if afraid she'd get it wrong, didn't actually know what words or actions the characters would use or maybe she was simply not emotionally able to go through it with them? I'm not sure why, but it's a bit of a cop out, if not a betrayal to her would-be-amazing characters who have been brave enough to open themselves up to one another's fear, pain, and what they view as weakness. Writing books about coming to terms, accepting and finally overcoming your issues and finding love is what these 2 series on D/S and BDSM revolve around. Yet those scenes are incomplete or missing all together. The writer absolutely has a talent because I have kept reading even when I've been left feeling disappointed. And it's not the sex scenes, though the sexual climaxes fall short in this one. It's that the showing dies and there's just a tell of flat line (I really don't know how else to explain it). It's a true shame and something the editor should have pushed the writer on. The beta readers (as I read on the writer's FB group) were as taken with the characters, scene lead-ins, and eroticism as I was and so maybe didn't notice; but after consecutively reading up to this series I couldn't help but finally get what was missing. The writer's natural talent can only go so far, skill and work have to be put into practice in writing the hard and happy scenes, the actual details, words, actions. Show don't just tell! We need to SEE the character get past the fight to the small little resolutions before the big one. So not only is the big pay off at the end served to you cold but so is the falling action and resolutions through out.
Please, fix this, as your characters and story concepts are really good! You just can't take a plot point and stick it in as a few sentences; you must write the scene. Otherwise, you will continue to cheat your characters and the readers who pay to read about their journey.
January 25, 2021
Wow what an eye-opener
My heart breaks for Josh, who never had the opportunity to be the man he is and when something awful happens to him only feels is humiliation and shame. And after talking to a doctor they get him to go and see Cash at the outreach centre. This opens his mind could they help him could they find the Dom that he needs. Could he finally find happiness and understanding.
Mal was on an assignment to writer a piece about the outreach centre and it totally changed his world. They did a assessment on him and they got it so right that it shocked him. He reacted badly and when he went to speak to the editor he was given an option go back with an open mind or he would be fired. Mal decided to go back and see if they can give him something to make him understand his own feelings. And well did they show him what he needed as a Dom.
This was a great book to read I’ve been lucky enough to read books from Romilly king so I understand a lot that goes on on at the out reach centre and this book had me hooked my heart was beating for Josh to go through so much pain and not to understand the true feelings that he has. And then you’ve got Mal, who didn’t like attachments but he liked to find a Twink in a club who didn’t mind how he treated them. But once he starts to learn the true meaning of being a Dom his mind opens up to finding the submissive he needs. And be asking to help with Josh was the best decision we ever made. Together they find the true meaning of what makes them work and it is brilliant. To go through the pain and suffering to finally except Who you are to finally be seen. Another fantastic read thoroughly enjoyed learning more about kinks.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My heart breaks for Josh, who never had the opportunity to be the man he is and when something awful happens to him only feels is humiliation and shame. And after talking to a doctor they get him to go and see Cash at the outreach centre. This opens his mind could they help him could they find the Dom that he needs. Could he finally find happiness and understanding.
Mal was on an assignment to writer a piece about the outreach centre and it totally changed his world. They did a assessment on him and they got it so right that it shocked him. He reacted badly and when he went to speak to the editor he was given an option go back with an open mind or he would be fired. Mal decided to go back and see if they can give him something to make him understand his own feelings. And well did they show him what he needed as a Dom.
This was a great book to read I’ve been lucky enough to read books from Romilly king so I understand a lot that goes on on at the out reach centre and this book had me hooked my heart was beating for Josh to go through so much pain and not to understand the true feelings that he has. And then you’ve got Mal, who didn’t like attachments but he liked to find a Twink in a club who didn’t mind how he treated them. But once he starts to learn the true meaning of being a Dom his mind opens up to finding the submissive he needs. And be asking to help with Josh was the best decision we ever made. Together they find the true meaning of what makes them work and it is brilliant. To go through the pain and suffering to finally except Who you are to finally be seen. Another fantastic read thoroughly enjoyed learning more about kinks.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 28, 2021
Simply Beautiful...
Another masterpiece. Another exciting series.
First off I have to say I loved Brio at the beginning of this book. How he reacted to Mal and then how he was with Josh. Simply brilliant as only Brio can be.
Tay was also amazing in this story. His presence was great and a perfect fit for this story. To read him and Cash was a lovely reminder of their book.
And then there is Cash. I have always loved and enjoyed his character. He is very special and I loved him in this book with Josh.
Loved both Josh and Mal’s characters both individually and as they came together. Their journey was a joy to read.
My heart went out to Josh. Such a beautiful character. Even I wanted to just hug him. Mal was so perfect for him and that was a joy to read how Mal was from the very beginning with Josh.
The ending surprised me I have to say and it felt a bit rushed for some reason. Knowing that particular scene was important to both, especially Josh, that it wasn’t drawn out a bit more and to read from Josh’s POV on how he found it and how it made him feel. That would have been great.
Don’t get me wrong, it was still a good ending from Mal’s POV and for the story.
The epilogue was a great tidbit for book 2 and I thank my lucky stars I can jump straight in and not have to wait lol.
Romilly has once again created a beautiful story, as only Romilly can for MM romance. The bar is set high and it was once again surpassed with a beautifully written book.
Another masterpiece. Another exciting series.
First off I have to say I loved Brio at the beginning of this book. How he reacted to Mal and then how he was with Josh. Simply brilliant as only Brio can be.
Tay was also amazing in this story. His presence was great and a perfect fit for this story. To read him and Cash was a lovely reminder of their book.
And then there is Cash. I have always loved and enjoyed his character. He is very special and I loved him in this book with Josh.
Loved both Josh and Mal’s characters both individually and as they came together. Their journey was a joy to read.
My heart went out to Josh. Such a beautiful character. Even I wanted to just hug him. Mal was so perfect for him and that was a joy to read how Mal was from the very beginning with Josh.
The ending surprised me I have to say and it felt a bit rushed for some reason. Knowing that particular scene was important to both, especially Josh, that it wasn’t drawn out a bit more and to read from Josh’s POV on how he found it and how it made him feel. That would have been great.
Don’t get me wrong, it was still a good ending from Mal’s POV and for the story.
The epilogue was a great tidbit for book 2 and I thank my lucky stars I can jump straight in and not have to wait lol.
Romilly has once again created a beautiful story, as only Romilly can for MM romance. The bar is set high and it was once again surpassed with a beautifully written book.
February 4, 2021
Fascinating premise, complex characters and utterly romantic.
This book was amazing. I’d never come across this author before but will definitely be looking for more now. This series is a spin-off from another series but that does not cause any problems. I’m sure there is cross-over and those who’ve read the other series will have the background to various characters’ stories but you don’t miss out on anything as a new reader.
The story itself was, in a word, beautiful. The world is complicated - so similar to our own (in some ways better, in other ways just as deeply flawed, but hopeful). The characters are rich and you feel them through the writing (you are shown who these people are not simply told). What is best though is the way the characters evolve. They are not perfect, they are human and with that comes complexity and contrast. At the end of it all (the social commentary which is genuine and profound yet not preachy, the honest look at mental health, the group of people trying to change the world for the better) is a sweet and uncomplicated love story.
I cannot wait until the next book!
This book was amazing. I’d never come across this author before but will definitely be looking for more now. This series is a spin-off from another series but that does not cause any problems. I’m sure there is cross-over and those who’ve read the other series will have the background to various characters’ stories but you don’t miss out on anything as a new reader.
The story itself was, in a word, beautiful. The world is complicated - so similar to our own (in some ways better, in other ways just as deeply flawed, but hopeful). The characters are rich and you feel them through the writing (you are shown who these people are not simply told). What is best though is the way the characters evolve. They are not perfect, they are human and with that comes complexity and contrast. At the end of it all (the social commentary which is genuine and profound yet not preachy, the honest look at mental health, the group of people trying to change the world for the better) is a sweet and uncomplicated love story.
I cannot wait until the next book!
January 8, 2021
Another incredible book by Romilly
I was so excited to see the promotional buzz on Twitter about this book (series) being released! I absolutely loved the prior books that revolved around the Delphi Agency.
This book did not disappoint! Full of all the cool psychological stuff like the others , it paired an inexperienced Dom with a guilt riddled Sub with PTSD and followed them through their learning and healing process into that of a beautiful relationship. This is not an erotica book of endless sex and kink but rather a look at relationships on a different level than our accustomed norms. I look forward to the rest of the series as the ending of this book alludes to what most likely will be the storyline of the next and it definitely looks promising!!
I was so excited to see the promotional buzz on Twitter about this book (series) being released! I absolutely loved the prior books that revolved around the Delphi Agency.
This book did not disappoint! Full of all the cool psychological stuff like the others , it paired an inexperienced Dom with a guilt riddled Sub with PTSD and followed them through their learning and healing process into that of a beautiful relationship. This is not an erotica book of endless sex and kink but rather a look at relationships on a different level than our accustomed norms. I look forward to the rest of the series as the ending of this book alludes to what most likely will be the storyline of the next and it definitely looks promising!!
January 23, 2021
Another great addition!
What can I say, I may be a little obsessed with the the whole first series and am definitely not disappointed with the start to this one! There is something about the series that just touched me! I felt like it was real and I related to some of them and I thought no one else would ever understand but of course I am not alone! I thank you for that first of all. I applaud you secondly cause this is the stuff that needs to be out there! It’s raw, it’s real, it’s what so many people wish they could have but are to afraid and this just goes to show that it’s ok and you can have this! PTSD is a b***h! Mental health period is not a joke!! But it can be managed with the right kind of help that works for you! 💜
What can I say, I may be a little obsessed with the the whole first series and am definitely not disappointed with the start to this one! There is something about the series that just touched me! I felt like it was real and I related to some of them and I thought no one else would ever understand but of course I am not alone! I thank you for that first of all. I applaud you secondly cause this is the stuff that needs to be out there! It’s raw, it’s real, it’s what so many people wish they could have but are to afraid and this just goes to show that it’s ok and you can have this! PTSD is a b***h! Mental health period is not a joke!! But it can be managed with the right kind of help that works for you! 💜
February 3, 2021
This book was awesome and I really enjoyed it. The story had all my favourite things and a few things that I didn’t even know I needed in a book.
Personal growth in a story is a requirement for me give a five star review and this one showed amazing change in both the central characters and characters that I knew from the original series. The resilience of the characters was paired with an acknowledgement of just how hard life can be and that makes me so happy as a reader.
Then there were novel and fresh intimate interactions that were very steamy but also feelings focused. So sexy but also relationship developing and completely required for the growing closeness of the characters involved.
I loved it and I’m counting the days until the next title in the series releases.
Personal growth in a story is a requirement for me give a five star review and this one showed amazing change in both the central characters and characters that I knew from the original series. The resilience of the characters was paired with an acknowledgement of just how hard life can be and that makes me so happy as a reader.
Then there were novel and fresh intimate interactions that were very steamy but also feelings focused. So sexy but also relationship developing and completely required for the growing closeness of the characters involved.
I loved it and I’m counting the days until the next title in the series releases.
May 5, 2021
4 Stars
Sciencing BDSM
People using science -- somehow -- to blindly profile people's sociosexual needs, give them therapy, training, and possibly partners to lead them to happier, fulfilling lives.
AND JUST IN CASE YOU'RE SKEPTICAL, one of the main characters is a skeptic himself, so there.
Whatever the setup, I was impressed by the complex people, the connections between the characters, and the depth of emotion in their histories, interactions, and resolution. The trade-off was a bit too heavy on the internalizing. You spend a lot of time in the characters' heads, and the conversation and action is slower and more invested because of it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sciencing BDSM
People using science -- somehow -- to blindly profile people's sociosexual needs, give them therapy, training, and possibly partners to lead them to happier, fulfilling lives.
AND JUST IN CASE YOU'RE SKEPTICAL, one of the main characters is a skeptic himself, so there.
Whatever the setup, I was impressed by the complex people, the connections between the characters, and the depth of emotion in their histories, interactions, and resolution. The trade-off was a bit too heavy on the internalizing. You spend a lot of time in the characters' heads, and the conversation and action is slower and more invested because of it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2021
Can You See Me? is a great book, and I loved the plot. It's the first book in The Outreach series. In this book, there is a place to find out what kinks you have and to be partnered with your compliment, hopefully. For me, that would be a dream come true. I loved that it happened for Mal and Josh. The scenes between them were hot, and so were the scenes between Tal and Cash. The epilogue sets the hook for the reader to want to read the next book, and it worked because I'm dying to find out what is going to happen to the twins that they save from their foster family.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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April 16, 2021So I was delighted to see more as an offshoot of the Delphic agency series.
It was again good reading, Mal the street tough and cynical Reporter. Josh, a battle scarred vet who thinks life has nothing to offer.
I really enjoy Romillys writing style and I find it easy to bring to life the characters she portrays. I found my heart sad for Josh, wanting more for him, in life, knowing that sometimes for those hiting middle age, after a life of devotion , can cause you can feel life's passed you by.
My only gripe... I could have read their story for three times the pages so it left me feeling a bit grabby for more.
It was again good reading, Mal the street tough and cynical Reporter. Josh, a battle scarred vet who thinks life has nothing to offer.
I really enjoy Romillys writing style and I find it easy to bring to life the characters she portrays. I found my heart sad for Josh, wanting more for him, in life, knowing that sometimes for those hiting middle age, after a life of devotion , can cause you can feel life's passed you by.
My only gripe... I could have read their story for three times the pages so it left me feeling a bit grabby for more.
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