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THEY CRAVE THE IMPOSSIBLE.

That’s what Captain Benjamin Davis and Dr. Jessica Bain tell each other. That the taboo kink they each crave to make a reality is impossible, a never-to-be fulfilled desire. Destiny proves it after a single incredible night of carnal decadence at the BDSM club Black Light gives them a tiny taste of their deepest desire just before tearing them apart.

Except Fate says ‘hold my beer.’

Thrown together thousands of miles from where they first met, they’re now faced with a risky do they seize the chance to give into their darkest desires once again, putting their careers on the line, or do they fight against their primal yearnings.

Neither of them may want the traditional walk down the aisle or the white picket fence, but they agree on one craving…

To breed.

336 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 22, 2021

90 people are currently reading
306 people want to read

About the author

Shane Starrett

15 books831 followers
USA Today bestselling author Shane Starrett loves to take his readers into the (sometimes) deeply dark but always seductive worlds of strong women and sinful romance. With a focus on BDSM themes, he explores the unique dynamics which take place between partners living 'in the lifestyle,' with an emphasis on the beauty and inherent strength of the bonds created between people who aren't afraid to tap into their kinky sides. With attention to themes such as trust, communication, understanding, and compromise (and always a dash of humor), Shane loves to explore the ever shifting but always fascinating forces at work between people falling into or already in love.

When he isn’t writing on those subjects (which isn’t often), he can be found in his Texas home with his wife of thirty-three years, either working in his shop, cooking, or daydreaming about another steamy, sexy story.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
2,127 reviews192 followers
March 21, 2021
I loved hearing the continuation of Jess and Ben's story! And Shane Starrett did not disappoint!
This relationship got very complicated after this couples play at Roulette when they discovered they have a mutual kink. But these characters were so unique and raw that you cannot help to cheer them on and see them and watch how they play out in this second phase!
Profile Image for Julia Butterfield - Stevens.
905 reviews9 followers
March 25, 2021
I love how the Black Light series explores many different kinks. This was certainly a new one on me. It was the first book I've read by this author, but won't be the last.  He created strong characters with a lot of depth and dynamic, natural, insightful dialogue, as well the sexy bdsm scenes I'm sure all Black Light fans including me crave.

I really liked army Captain Ben Davis, he was sexy and dominant but not overpoweringly so as some alpha doms can be. He was considerate and caring but tough and took control exactly when it was needed. He had his own insecurities and imperfections, but he had the strength to own it when he put his foot in his mouth and he definitely did that at times even with the best intentions.

I had mixed feelings for Dr Jessica Bain. She was submissive in the bedroom and very alpha'ess at work, but she was quite abrasive at times and very defensive. She was determined, stubborn and driven but despite her obvious intelligence, quick to anger, prone to making assumptions and was quick to judge on first appearances which caused a few issues. The more we got to know her however and learnt what she had to contend with to be so successful, I could understand her reactions and lack of trust. She was strong, independent, loyal and dedicated to doing the right thing. Davis was perfect for her.

Both thought they'd never find anyone to share and make their more unusual kink fantasy a reality. With fiery chemistry, their mutual desires forged a fateful connection even they couldn't ignore.

I really enjoyed this, it was a very different bdsm dynamic, although to be honest I didn’t completely understand if by the end it was still classed as a kink and not just a life choice as they were a couple by then. I look forward to reading more from Shane Starrett and Black Light.

4.25 stars
Profile Image for Nerine Dorman.
Author 70 books238 followers
Read
March 21, 2021
Disclaimer: Can't rate 'cos I edited this. But oh my gosh, Shane's dialogue is 90% of the reason why I love his writing so much. His characterisation purely through the interactions between characters absolutely makes this worthwhile. Every time I work with him, I think the most recent book of his is my most favourite out of the batch, and Bred knocks all the others out of the water.
296 reviews3 followers
May 5, 2021
This is the 21st book in the Black Light series. You need to read Black Light: Roulette Rematch before you read this book. This book is a continuation of when Jess and Davis met during Roulette Rematch.

* How did the book make you feel?: This book was well written, but I had a couple of issues with it. Breeding is not my kink and I didn’t even know it could be one. I’m having a hard time not judging this kink, so I’ll leave it at that. This author likes to use the word Goddamn. I hate that word and don’t use it. I was getting so fed-up with seeing it I thought about putting the book down. The only reason I didn’t was because all the other parts were good.

* How do you feel about how the story was told?: I always like when the author writes the story from different POVs. I get a better connection with the characters.

* What did you think about the main characters?: I didn't like the character Jess. She had a big chip on her shoulder and thought everyone was out to get her. It got old. I got tired of her rants about being a successful doctor and having to prove herself. Her only saving grace was that she seemed like a good friend when she was not trying to get others involved in her conspiracy theories. I haven’t read many BDSM books by male authors and it makes me wonder if this is how Shane Starrett thinks of strong females? Davis is a different story. I liked Davis. He was more patient than I could have been with Jess. He seemed to be a good Dom, he could read Jess and gave her what she needed/wanted.

* Which parts of the book stood out to you?: I liked the Picaro story. It made this book more than a simple BDSM book.

* What did you think about the ending?: Jess is a doctor trying to find a cure to Picaro. Jess was convinced that the director of the program was trying to weaponize Picaro and not find a cure. The way the book ended this part of the story was disappointing. I don’t feel that the author did a good job ending the Picaro portion of the story. It was a weak attempt at best. The epilogue which goes into more detail about Jess and Davis was good. The author did a good job at finalizing their relationship.

* What is your impression of the author?: Shane Starrett is a good writer. I liked how he would describe the situation. He gave just enough details so I could imagine I was part of the story. I am hoping that the way he wrote Jess’s character isn’t the way he writes all his female characters, annoying. I will read more from this author.

I saw these questions on another reviewers post and thought I'd use them.
Serial Romance Librarian
Profile Image for Rose Howse.
914 reviews15 followers
March 22, 2021
The continuation of Jess and Ben's story from Black Light Rematch was everything I hoped for. This couple, wanted the same thing but thought they'd never get to have it. This was a match made from fate, destiny, you call it what you like, except for the strong alpha personalities outside of the bedroom. I enjoyed Jess's snark and Ben's control and patience. They do need to work on trust and
communication but when things are so hot under the sheets you find a way to make it work. I also enjoyed the secondary characters and hope we get to see Sergeant Reyes and Dr. Stowe again, sometime in the future. This is another winning Shane Starrett book for your shelf/kindle!
Profile Image for JigsawGirl.
4,162 reviews
March 27, 2021
This is a continuation of Ben and Jess' story from the last Roulette Rematch book. It isn't necessary to read that book to understand or enjoys this one.

This book started out strongly and the whole Army Intelligence, secret scientific scene was intriguing to me. Ben and Jess' kink was one I had never heard of before. It came across more as awkward then anything else. Maybe because she kept yelling about breeding her. Maybe because no matter how much I tried, I could not bring myself to like Jess.

Jess' personality ruined the book for me. I have nothing against strong, intelligent women. Even women who may seem domineering to many. Jess was more hot headed, egotistical, arrogant, selfish, and obnoxious. She jumped to conclusions not based on facts, but on ideas she had formulated based on her "gut instinct".

Even when she admitted that she was wrong, she was unable to do it graciously. Ben had more class and tact in his little finger.

Then we get a buildup of a story. Jess makes an admission, and the entire storyline drops. Really? I wanted to know about the project, the people both scientists and military personnel. This wasn't a cliffhanger, but I felt like I was left hanging. At some point in the book it seemed like we went from 0 to 60, and we were done.

Ben and Jess do get their HEA, which seemed a lot like the life they said they couldn't lead. What would have been a 4 - 5 star book was pretty much destroyed for me by Jess' disregard for anyone but herself. My suggestion is that you read the book and judge for yourself.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Kay Parker.
Author 45 books974 followers
March 30, 2021
I need to be honest and say Jess and Davis weren't my favorite pairing in the last Black Light Valentine's Roulette anthology. For some reason, I didn't connect with them, so while I was excited at reading the newest BL book, I was also a little apprehensive.
I needn't have worried.
Bred handles a delicate kink with dignity, and this particular kink is one of my favorites. There's humor, chemistry, and although I'm not a military romance reader, it was interesting to become involved with the language and protocols.
Well-written and highly enjoyable.
Profile Image for Dennis.
952 reviews27 followers
March 22, 2021
Fantastic BDSM story

This is fantastic story, I loved how it started out. Such a great beginning to a fantastic story. It is a steamy BDSM story set on a Army base and there is nice mystery in the story as well. The story moves along nicely and I finished it in one setting. There is a really terrific HEA that I am sure you will love. I think you will love this story just like I do.
Profile Image for Rhonda.
3,770 reviews63 followers
March 21, 2021
When I read the beginning of this story in the Roulette anthology, I knew I needed more. These two captured my heart and I wanted to know what happened after those 3 hours they spent together. Imagine my surprise when I found out the author was already working on a full length book for Davis and Jess. The story was everything I hoped for and even more. I loved the snark and the connection between these two, even after they had been apart for awhile. The kink they shared is something unique and it isn't written about that much but Mr. Starrett has a knack for writing about "special" kinks. It basically blew me away and I couldn't stop reading it and in the process, I found another character who I would love to see a story for...*hint...at the beginning*. We don't get a name but I think Mr. Starrett could easily fix that if he wanted too. LOL This book fits in so well with the whole Black Light series and I can already say that it is going to be one of my favorite reads for this year. I loved everything about this book, the drama, the tension, the snark, the hot steamy times *make sure you have cold water nearby* but most of all, the characters are awesome! Shane is the first male author to write a book in this world and I sincerely hope that he considers writing more in the future! He's that good!! If you love Black Light, you will absolutely LOVE this book!!
Profile Image for Martha Lindblom.
837 reviews4 followers
April 12, 2021
This book is a continuation of the one in Black Light Roulette. Dr. Jessica Bain and Captain Benjamin Davis were excellent in Roulette and we all wanted to know if her kink would come true. As we learn in this book it did not. When they meet up again Jess think Ben made all this work for them to be together, but she is wrong. Shane Starrett has done an excellent job in bringing these two together and it is a rough road. They do like to fight and argue. Enjoy this wonderful book and see if they have an HEA. Enjoy

Merged review:

This book is a continuation of the one in Black Light Roulette. Dr. Jessica Bain and Captain Benjamin Davis were excellent in Roulette and we all wanted to know if her kink would come true. As we learn in this book it did not. When they meet up again Jess think Ben made all this work for them to be together, but she is wrong. Shane Starrett has done an excellent job in bringing these two together and it is a rough road. They do like to fight and argue. Enjoy this wonderful book and see if they have an HEA. Enjoy
Profile Image for Z.
278 reviews1 follower
March 21, 2022
I don't think I could have hated a book more.
144 reviews1 follower
March 30, 2021
This is a continuation from the Bareback story of Ben and Jess in the Roulette book, however it is completely stand-alone and not necessary to enjoy this book (that being said I couldn’t recommend the Roulette Rematch more highly - it’s a great read!)
This is another of the black light books where they explore something that isn’t my kink, that I wouldn’t have thought of or be able to relate to and they make it more relatable. Honestly I still don’t quite ‘get’ how such a kink resolves if you do end up with a child at the end of it....but it was interesting to read about it for sure.
There was a great start to the story - I particularly liked the whole ‘secret project’/army/intelligence premise and anticipation of the two very headstrong characters going up against each other, certainly there is a lot of chemistry there. I did get frustrated with Jess’s character after a while - for such a smart lady she seemed to almost be obtuse when it came to trusting Ben.....on the one hand this felt very ‘real world’ but on the other I felt that the resolution was slightly rushed towards the end.
That being said I still found this to be a very enjoyable read, great banter between the characters and I particularly enjoyed the secondary characters Reyes and Mia and I LOVED the chapter involving them altogether; super hot. Great to have the interaction with Spencer as well, he’s quite the character! Another worthy addition to this great series.
Profile Image for Leslie OBrien.
756 reviews14 followers
March 23, 2021
So, it’s been a while since I’ve yelled at the story I was reading. In this case, it most definitely happened several times in Shane Starrett’s Bred, and usually consisted of things along the lines of, “Oh. My. Gawd! Would you stop talking now? Just stop! Don’t go any further. Noooo!” And. Full disclosure here. Breeding is so not my kink. The very idea of it puts me into a cold sweat, as I vehemently shake my head no and scream “mitosis” at the top of my lungs. And yet, I kept reading. All of the words. Because the words were so good. The character development was fantabulous with all the idiosyncrasies and mannerisms of very real people. So much so that I felt as if I was watching the scenes play out in real life rather than on the page. I loved the plot and Mr. Starrett’s attention to detail down to the sass and snark was brilliant and I found myself highlighting favorite lines. And of course, the chemistry and relationship between Davis and Jess ranged between scintillating and cringe-worthy and everything in between. Even if it isn’t your kink, Bred is a great story and a worthy addition to the Black Light family and I’m so glad I read it.
Profile Image for Zelda.
1,459 reviews
March 26, 2021
This book follows on from the author's story Bareback, in the Black Light Rematch anthology. The two characters, Davis and Jess, are thrown together through work. I appreciate Mr. Starrett's knowledge of the military, as his descriptions and language seemed very authentic. It was fun to see a strong, stubborn, dominant woman like Jess give Davis a run for his money outside of the bedroom. She was very dominant outside the bedroom and her submission to Davis was such a gift. Their dynamic was brilliant, as were their flaws that they needed to work through. Two very individual people, who forge their own path. I have to say, their kink is not something I had thought about in much detail and I was intrigued & wanted to learn more about if after Bareback. Loved the characters, which added so much to the plot. Fabulous read.

I received a copy of this book. My honest opinion is voluntarily provided.
1,934 reviews
March 21, 2021
I enjoyed Jess and Ben in Rematch even though I am a bit perplexed by their kink. How many times can you get pregnant to satisfy that fantasy - every 2 years and what if you can’t, then what do you do? I am sure for the man it is much simpler and for Jess and Ben it seems to work so whatever floats their boat. That aside I thoroughly enjoyed the story and it was fun to see Spenser and Klara again. The mystery surrounding the virus was timely and I am sure much was based on the current situation. Mina and Alex were so cute and it was great to see someone coming Into their own. The dialogue and repartee between Jess and Ben was wonderful and their ability to admit they were wrong was refreshing. A fast read that was more than just one theme made it interesting as well as steamy and very pleasurable to read.
108 reviews1 follower
March 26, 2021
Good, but needed more depth

I was intrigued with the initial character development of this book and had high hopes for its depth. I also enjoyed the banter of the characters. The struggle to trust each other was the primary conflict point in the story and especially Jess had issues with doubting other people's motives. I felt like I was left hanging after the book was over. Everything just ended so quickly without very clear resolution. I didn't feel like the characters grew much, especially Jess. Sure she was proved wrong, but it didn't feel like she internalized that and moved on a better person. I was hoping for conflict that led to the characters having a deeper understanding of themselves and each other. But the ending was just kind of abrupt and without that warm fuzzy depth.
Profile Image for Hannah Brokaw.
128 reviews15 followers
May 24, 2024
I didn’t like this book at ALL. I’m honestly not even sure why I started it-I didn’t like Jess at all during Roulette but I picked it up anyway. Jess isn’t a good friend at all-her own arrogance leads her friend into trouble. And then she’s still can barely be sorry. As for a being a scientist on a classified project-she’s terrible at that too. Her whip lash attitude was very off putting and even though I wasn’t wild about Davis, he deserved better at every turn. He deserved a better submissive, a better friend and a better co worker.

“I never meant for anyone to get in trouble.” “I didn’t think I’d get caught.” So despite being a scientist Jess is clearly stupid as well as over the top arrogant. I hate that in characters and it makes for bad reading as well. She was so unlikable at almost every turn-the book was a total flop for me.
Profile Image for Gladys.
14k reviews162 followers
March 20, 2021
I enjoyed this book. We first met this couple in Black Light: Roulette Rematch and I was very excited that the author decided to give readers more of their story. I think you could fairly easily just read this book on its own but I'll also say that you are missing out if you don't read that book because it's a hot and steamy collection that is so worth your time. Benjamin and Jessica share a naughty yearning that leads to them engaging in a taboo kink. I loved how this book takes that and ups the ante with a much deeper level of emotion, plenty of drama, more intensity and lots and lots more sizzle, snark, sparks and scorching heat. All thoughts and opinions in this review are entirely my own and unsolicited.
Profile Image for Kaye Robinson.
936 reviews4 followers
March 23, 2021
The Right Balance...

I first read the start of this story in Roulette Rematch (an great book to start with) and Ben and Jess’s story piqued my interest so when their story is continued I knew I just had to read more..
Ben and Jess have quite a bit in common with each other, they both have dominate personalities in their day to day lives (except Jess is submissive in intimate moments) both have a certain arrogance and they share a taboo kink of being bred.
This was a very exciting read of how two strong characters manage to find a common ground in their relationship on an army base with a cloak and dagger mystery that made this book suspenseful to the last page making this worthy of being part of the BL series..
2,042 reviews3 followers
March 31, 2021
Jess and Davis were introduced in the latest Black Light Roulette book (Rematch) and while they weren't my favourite couple, and I don't really get the kink, it did intrigue me enough to want to read their story. This is a book that can very easily be read standalone - there is no background that you miss out on if you haven't read Rematch. While I grew to like Davis, Jess is still not my favourite and I didn't always feel their chemistry. I liked the build up in their story and relationship and the struggles as they each learned to interact with the other. However, it did feel like it ended really suddenly. There is a HEA, so it's not that there's a part 2 coming, but it just sort of stopped, which left me feeling a bit cheated and let down.
Profile Image for Carolyn Spence.
1,919 reviews16 followers
March 22, 2021
An interesting slow burn read. Getting to know the two main characters better was very rewarding. Davis and Jess, both very strong and know what they want but in very different ways at the same time. Trust is a big issue in this book as well in the lifestyle, and it takes a few lessons for Jess to realize it. I loved when they both think "I'm the one in charge here. Not him(her)." I loved how Jess also pushed Mina towards Reyes as well, showing her own dominant side, but definitely not in the bedroom, it's all about the choices that each person makes and how your partner "empathizes" with you. I enjoyed this book and do recommend it.

I voluntarily reviewed this book.
3,071 reviews17 followers
March 23, 2021
Wow – Terrific Story!!

I’ve read many of the Black Light books, but this was my first with this particular topic. It was so well written; I completely fell into the wants and needs of our main characters.

They also happen to be trying to “save the world” from a dangerous contagion – which provides tension and action along with the scintillating relationship. The main characters both have strong personalities, which makes this second chance quite entertaining.

So many fabulous aspects in this story – I highly recommend it!!

**I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
Profile Image for Jo.
1,162 reviews4 followers
March 26, 2021
We met Captain Benjamin David and Dr. Jessica Bain in the last Roulette. I was so flipping excited when I heard that we'd be getting more of them.

Breeding kink, you definitely don't hear a lot about it. It's hot as all get out but for obvious reasons, not something that's going to be done with just anyone.

Ever since that night, Ben and Jessica cannot stop thinking of one another. Then fate steps in and they both end up on the same government project.

Jessica never lets Ben gets a breather, she keeps him on his toes and I love it! I adore Ben for never stifles her. They work together to both have their separate dreams and their shared kink.

Bravo Shane, Bravo!
2,185 reviews15 followers
March 29, 2021
We finally get the continuation of Ben and Jessica's story from Black Light Roulette Rematch and it was definitely worth the wait. When Ben and Jess met each other she said it was kismet or fate or destiny and the continuation of their story proves that it was fate and that their destiny was each other. I don't want to ruin the story for anyone else with spoilers but I will say that you definitely have to read the rest of their journey to happiness. Mr. Starrett gave us a complete story that was very well written. I would definitely recommend this book! It's a great addition to the Black Light ⚫ Series. I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.
Profile Image for Foodiegirl.
1,040 reviews21 followers
April 1, 2021
For everyone who loved Black Light Roulette Rematch we get to return to Ben and Jessica's story. The continuation is definitely worth the wait. Their story proves that it was fate when Ben and Jess met each other, their destiny was to each other. Mr. Starrett has a well written story that is seamless in it's flow from Rematch and brings together two very interesting and charismatic individuals. I loved how they interacted together and their strong alpha personalities outside of the bedroom. Jess's snark and Ben's patience just added so much to the story. It's definitely a must read book and a fantastic addition to the Black Light Series.
147 reviews
April 21, 2021
Loved the witty bantering

It took a very secure and strong dominant to deal with the feisty and fierce submissive, Dr. Bain. Capt. Davis proved his worth as the man that could except and love the woman Jess was. Her riposte is to question and question she certainly did. That made her the great scientist she was. I loved how Shane had the two main characters work through their issues. Two experienced players in the BDSM lifestyle who shared a kink that few ever thought to find a partner to play with, with the same kink. To breed.
I am adding this one to my library. I want to read it again. I loved the chemistry, the characters, the story, all of it.
Profile Image for Maureen.
1,456 reviews28 followers
March 22, 2021
I enjoyed this book, but i found Jessicas character a little bit over the top, but in saying that both characters are known for their arrogance. I actually felt sorry for Ben when they met up again at the base... Jess really has a sharp tongue on her lol.
But despite this they still manage to overcome their differences and indulge in their favourite kink.
As these characters met in Black light it was always great to see them there again.
I really enjoyed the whole story line to this book , it was intriguing to say the least.
55 reviews
March 22, 2021
I’ve been excited for this book since the latest Roulette was released in February (if you haven’t read it yet, you’re definitely missing out).

I LOVE that the plot is completely nothing like what I was expecting! If you read Susan Stoker’s books, then I’ll eat my cat if you don’t love this book! (Please don’t make me eat my cat)

There’s not been a Black Light story that I don’t like, and this one is no exception. The banter between the characters is hilarious and I’m living for it, to be honest.

One final thought... “Hot hunk of manflesh” may be the best phrase I’ve ever read.
351 reviews3 followers
March 22, 2021
This was a wonderful story and addition to the Black Light world! Shane Starrett does an amazing job of giving a story that is engaging and unique! There were a few moments when I felt that the story was slow but never to a point that it would pull me from the story. Anytime Ben and Jess are together sparks are flying!

One of my favorite scenes is with Reyes, Mia, Ben, and Jess. It is so poignant and such a great build up moment in the story! LOVED! Bravo Shane on dynamic couple with a captivating kink!
352 reviews
March 26, 2021
This is the first book I have read by this author and I was super impressed. The character development was really good and I felt like I knew both Jess and Ben. She's a force to be reckoned with. Her opinions are strong and her will even stronger. She needs a man who isn't intimidated by that and Ben fits the bill. He is alpha in the best kind of way. Respectful and patient and he shares her rare kink. The road to understanding each other's wants and needs is long, but will be well worth the wait. I'm off to read other stories by Shane Starrett!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews

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