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Hell's Bedroom #2
Chicken Soup Dom
When Arlo boarded a bus to Philadelphia to turn himself over to a master he’d never met, he thought he was on his way home, that he would finally have both the sex he craved and an authority figure to care for him in a way his parents never had. But what he got was worse. Much, much worse. Now he’s been rescued, but where does that leave him?
Officer Cade Brixby immediately bonded with the young sub they rescued—a curly-haired, blue-eyed cherub who needs to be taught the right way to engage in power exchange. But not by him, and not until Arlo has had a chance to process his traumatic past. Brixby’s only taking care of Arlo for now, keeping him safe and making sure he eats. He has no business playing with the boy. Even if Arlo asks. A lot.
Professionally, Brixby is off the case. Or so he’s been told by his captain. But he and his band of vigilante kinksters won’t rest until every kidnapped sub has been found and the kidnappers brought to justice. Arlo might be able to provide them with some valuable information.
Or he might be bait.
Content warning for disordered eating. The opening chapter details an abusive situation that may be disturbing to some readers.
Officer Cade Brixby immediately bonded with the young sub they rescued—a curly-haired, blue-eyed cherub who needs to be taught the right way to engage in power exchange. But not by him, and not until Arlo has had a chance to process his traumatic past. Brixby’s only taking care of Arlo for now, keeping him safe and making sure he eats. He has no business playing with the boy. Even if Arlo asks. A lot.
Professionally, Brixby is off the case. Or so he’s been told by his captain. But he and his band of vigilante kinksters won’t rest until every kidnapped sub has been found and the kidnappers brought to justice. Arlo might be able to provide them with some valuable information.
Or he might be bait.
Content warning for disordered eating. The opening chapter details an abusive situation that may be disturbing to some readers.
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2021
40 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Tanya Chris
60 books295 followersTanya writes in a variety of romantic and erotic genres, being an avid follower of many of these genres herself. Some of her favorites are M/M romance, MFM threesomes, and BDSM with male submissives.
Tanya lives in New England with her boyfriend and her cat and has participated in many of the activities about which she writes, but not all of them. It's left to the reader to decide which are which.
Tanya lives in New England with her boyfriend and her cat and has participated in many of the activities about which she writes, but not all of them. It's left to the reader to decide which are which.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
April 25, 2021
* 3 stars *
I have mixed feelings about this book as I liked some parts very much and I felt uncomfortable while reading some others.
~ The plot
This is the second book in the series and it continues the arc of the previous one, while focusing on a new couple, so while you don't have to have read the first one to follow along, it's strongly advisable that you do.
The book starts with Arlo, who was held in a cage, being rescued. Throughout the story, we learn about Arlo's past and how he ended up in that situation. When he needs a place to stay, until the danger for him is over, Officer Cade Brixby steps up and offers to take him home and keep him safe.
~ The case
The mystery of finding the guy or the guys who kick started Arlo's ordeal was very interesting and captivating. The investigation, the undercover bits, the meetings in Cash's house, everything was nicely done and I was curious about what they would find at the end. The fact that the guy they were looking for was most likely someone they knew from the club they frequented, someone so close to home, made everything even more angsty. There was someone who had betrayed their community and they needed to find who it was.
The mystery and the action parts of the book were good, well, except for the conclusion that seemed pretty flat after all the build up, but that doesn't erase the fact that I enjoyed the previous bits.
~ The romance
I had a very big issue with Arlo and Cade being together, because of Arlo's emotional and mental state. In the majority of the book he was withdrawn and afraid that any small mistake would result in Cade asking him to leave. He didn't make decisions according to what he wanted, but according to what he thought Cade wanted.
Also, the way he thought and acted made me think he was even younger than he actually was. Or that he was constantly out of it. His thought process was very slow and overly simplified, like he was struggling to make sense of the world around him. I guess that could be true after what he went through before he got rescued, but that's just more proof that he wasn't ready for a relationship with Cade.
I didn't like them together and I didn't undestand them being together. I liked Cade as a character, but I would have liked him a lot more if he could hold off until Arlo was more stable mentally. He had that intention at the beginning, but somewhere along the line he got lost. Arlo was very young and very new to the scene, he didn't understand how everything worked and that he had power in the relationship, that he didn't have to follow along with everything Cade wanted, that he could make demands and set limits himself. That's a very dangerous situation even in vanilla relationships.
Thankfully, Arlo's real character started to show near the end. I was reading the chapters that were told from his POV and it was like a fog had been lifted from his mind and he could think again and be himself.
Another thing that bothered me was that he got rescued after months of captivity, and there was no mention of him talking to a mental health professional, he just went on to live with Cade and that was that.
On a positive note, there were many interesting side characters. Cash and Harrison were the couple from the first book, Sebastian and Tripp are going to be the main couple in the third book, an FBI agent from the West Coast, and a Domme with her sub who got involved in the investigation and ended up housing another victim. There's some drama and tention between those three and I look forward to finding out how that situation is going to play out.
To sum everything up, I liked the case and the mystery, but I was uncomfortable reading about Arlo and Cade's relationship.
I haven't read the first book yet, but I liked Cash and Harrison so much from their scenes here that I'll be sure to pick up their book.
~ I read an ARC of this book. ~
I have mixed feelings about this book as I liked some parts very much and I felt uncomfortable while reading some others.
~ The plot
This is the second book in the series and it continues the arc of the previous one, while focusing on a new couple, so while you don't have to have read the first one to follow along, it's strongly advisable that you do.
The book starts with Arlo, who was held in a cage, being rescued. Throughout the story, we learn about Arlo's past and how he ended up in that situation. When he needs a place to stay, until the danger for him is over, Officer Cade Brixby steps up and offers to take him home and keep him safe.
~ The case
The mystery of finding the guy or the guys who kick started Arlo's ordeal was very interesting and captivating. The investigation, the undercover bits, the meetings in Cash's house, everything was nicely done and I was curious about what they would find at the end. The fact that the guy they were looking for was most likely someone they knew from the club they frequented, someone so close to home, made everything even more angsty. There was someone who had betrayed their community and they needed to find who it was.
The mystery and the action parts of the book were good, well, except for the conclusion that seemed pretty flat after all the build up, but that doesn't erase the fact that I enjoyed the previous bits.
~ The romance
I had a very big issue with Arlo and Cade being together, because of Arlo's emotional and mental state. In the majority of the book he was withdrawn and afraid that any small mistake would result in Cade asking him to leave. He didn't make decisions according to what he wanted, but according to what he thought Cade wanted.
Also, the way he thought and acted made me think he was even younger than he actually was. Or that he was constantly out of it. His thought process was very slow and overly simplified, like he was struggling to make sense of the world around him. I guess that could be true after what he went through before he got rescued, but that's just more proof that he wasn't ready for a relationship with Cade.
I didn't like them together and I didn't undestand them being together. I liked Cade as a character, but I would have liked him a lot more if he could hold off until Arlo was more stable mentally. He had that intention at the beginning, but somewhere along the line he got lost. Arlo was very young and very new to the scene, he didn't understand how everything worked and that he had power in the relationship, that he didn't have to follow along with everything Cade wanted, that he could make demands and set limits himself. That's a very dangerous situation even in vanilla relationships.
Thankfully, Arlo's real character started to show near the end. I was reading the chapters that were told from his POV and it was like a fog had been lifted from his mind and he could think again and be himself.
Another thing that bothered me was that he got rescued after months of captivity, and there was no mention of him talking to a mental health professional, he just went on to live with Cade and that was that.
On a positive note, there were many interesting side characters. Cash and Harrison were the couple from the first book, Sebastian and Tripp are going to be the main couple in the third book, an FBI agent from the West Coast, and a Domme with her sub who got involved in the investigation and ended up housing another victim. There's some drama and tention between those three and I look forward to finding out how that situation is going to play out.
To sum everything up, I liked the case and the mystery, but I was uncomfortable reading about Arlo and Cade's relationship.
I haven't read the first book yet, but I liked Cash and Harrison so much from their scenes here that I'll be sure to pick up their book.
~ I read an ARC of this book. ~
August 18, 2024
Possible Triggers: BDSM/Human Trafficking
This is the second book in the "Hell's Bedroom" series. The story continues with the same characters and events from Book #1. I suppose that it might stand fairly well as a standalone, but the reader is going to have to struggle to some extent to understand the "why" and "how" of some of the events so, I'd still recommend reading the books in order, and there is still a third book in this series, one that I'm sure also follows this same pattern. I also would advise heeding the trigger warning in the blurb. I usually try to include trigger warnings at the start of a review of a book that contains them and there are some scenes in this story that could make some readers uncomfortable.
I have liked these characters from the very first book and was interested in how things would work out for them. This is Arlo and Officer Brixby's story. Arlo, who was kidnapped in the first book and rescued by a group of Doms is in an "almost" relationship with Brixby, and it is all over the place while they try to figure things out. I understand Brixby's concerns but I think he's trying too hard to make things immediately perfect instead of letting things settle one thing at a time. He seems to forget that Arlo is an adult and can make his own decisions with or without his approval. Arlo is an amazing young man when we see his background and what he was rescued from. I had hope for them since I knew from reading this author's other books, that she would see that they got the happiness they so deserved.
Thinking back at this couple's journey and the other books I've read, I have to say that this series is a bit different than what I've previously read by this author, but the reasons that I like and read her books is still solidly present in this series. These are some great characters, it's an emotional journey, and the stories are set in an intriguing world. I'm looking forward to the next book in this trio of books. I want to visit more with these guys.
This is the second book in the "Hell's Bedroom" series. The story continues with the same characters and events from Book #1. I suppose that it might stand fairly well as a standalone, but the reader is going to have to struggle to some extent to understand the "why" and "how" of some of the events so, I'd still recommend reading the books in order, and there is still a third book in this series, one that I'm sure also follows this same pattern. I also would advise heeding the trigger warning in the blurb. I usually try to include trigger warnings at the start of a review of a book that contains them and there are some scenes in this story that could make some readers uncomfortable.
I have liked these characters from the very first book and was interested in how things would work out for them. This is Arlo and Officer Brixby's story. Arlo, who was kidnapped in the first book and rescued by a group of Doms is in an "almost" relationship with Brixby, and it is all over the place while they try to figure things out. I understand Brixby's concerns but I think he's trying too hard to make things immediately perfect instead of letting things settle one thing at a time. He seems to forget that Arlo is an adult and can make his own decisions with or without his approval. Arlo is an amazing young man when we see his background and what he was rescued from. I had hope for them since I knew from reading this author's other books, that she would see that they got the happiness they so deserved.
Thinking back at this couple's journey and the other books I've read, I have to say that this series is a bit different than what I've previously read by this author, but the reasons that I like and read her books is still solidly present in this series. These are some great characters, it's an emotional journey, and the stories are set in an intriguing world. I'm looking forward to the next book in this trio of books. I want to visit more with these guys.
June 12, 2021
I don't know how to rate this. I was kind of OK with the story while reading it, but the more I think about it, the bigger my NOPE gets.
I have two main problems with this book. 1 - the unbalanced main relationship (both the age difference and that it implies a D/s relationship can substitute for actual therapy). 2 - so many little cringe-y and clueless elements in the story that add up to me not feeling comfortable recommending this book.
First, the relationship. In another context (and with the younger half of the couple at least 4 years older), I would have liked this story of two inexperienced kinksters figuring out their daddy/boy dynamic together. But in the context of 18 year old Arlo being rescued from human traffickers at the end of book 1 and moving in with 24 y.o. Cade a few days later, yeah, no. Nope-ity, nope-ity nope.
Second, several icky moments that made me cringe. I know from experience if something makes me (a nice middle aged white lady) a little uncomfortable, it can/will really upset other readers, so I'm going to mention the bigger ones to help other readers avoid something potentially upsetting.
Cade's landlady, who teaches Arlo to cook Chinese food, gave me magical POC vibes - she basically existed to help Arlo
The portrayal of one of the other trafficked subs, a Native American woman named Kimi, made me vaguely uncomfortable but I don't know enough to say why or what.
And then there’s my biggest issue. I read this the day it came out. The day that Derrick Chauvin was convicted on all 3 counts. Cade is a white police officer - a patrolman for the Boston Police Dept. That might be enough of a nope for some readers. He's presented as a working class guy who's working hard for a stable future. He's closeted at work and is wrestling with whether or not he should stay on the force. He's wrestling with the homophobia - nothing else.
At one point early in the book, when he's considering leaving for a much less secure job where he could be out, he thinks that his new potential boss might have to lay him off if work was slow, "whereas belonging to the police union meant his chances of being out of work were practically nil. He would have to kill an unarmed victim to get fired. Probably twice."
I mean, he's not wrong, he did have incredible job security. And police unions do protect officers who do a lot of terrible things, but OMFG, reading that took me out of the story. In fact, I'm not exactly sure why I kept reading except that I have a little author trust built up with this author (I adore her PNR Omegaverse series even if I usually don't like her contemporaries as much) and I wanted to see where she was going with this. But she didn’t go anywhere with it.
I have two main problems with this book. 1 - the unbalanced main relationship (both the age difference and that it implies a D/s relationship can substitute for actual therapy). 2 - so many little cringe-y and clueless elements in the story that add up to me not feeling comfortable recommending this book.
First, the relationship. In another context (and with the younger half of the couple at least 4 years older), I would have liked this story of two inexperienced kinksters figuring out their daddy/boy dynamic together. But in the context of 18 year old Arlo being rescued from human traffickers at the end of book 1 and moving in with 24 y.o. Cade a few days later, yeah, no. Nope-ity, nope-ity nope.
Second, several icky moments that made me cringe. I know from experience if something makes me (a nice middle aged white lady) a little uncomfortable, it can/will really upset other readers, so I'm going to mention the bigger ones to help other readers avoid something potentially upsetting.
Cade's landlady, who teaches Arlo to cook Chinese food, gave me magical POC vibes - she basically existed to help Arlo
The portrayal of one of the other trafficked subs, a Native American woman named Kimi, made me vaguely uncomfortable but I don't know enough to say why or what.
And then there’s my biggest issue. I read this the day it came out. The day that Derrick Chauvin was convicted on all 3 counts. Cade is a white police officer - a patrolman for the Boston Police Dept. That might be enough of a nope for some readers. He's presented as a working class guy who's working hard for a stable future. He's closeted at work and is wrestling with whether or not he should stay on the force. He's wrestling with the homophobia - nothing else.
At one point early in the book, when he's considering leaving for a much less secure job where he could be out, he thinks that his new potential boss might have to lay him off if work was slow, "whereas belonging to the police union meant his chances of being out of work were practically nil. He would have to kill an unarmed victim to get fired. Probably twice."
I mean, he's not wrong, he did have incredible job security. And police unions do protect officers who do a lot of terrible things, but OMFG, reading that took me out of the story. In fact, I'm not exactly sure why I kept reading except that I have a little author trust built up with this author (I adore her PNR Omegaverse series even if I usually don't like her contemporaries as much) and I wanted to see where she was going with this. But she didn’t go anywhere with it.
April 21, 2021
I enjoyed the first book and I’m very curious about the next one with Sebastian (not so keen about Tripp after this book) but this one was a no from me.
We have an inexperienced Dom and an even more inexperienced sub. Arlo was the one I had more problems with. He went through some very traumatic shit that he is not processing and should be in therapy for. And then ends up in another D/s dynamic from a Dom he is dependent on without him actually learning what standing on his own two feet is. He was supposed to be this naive little guy (while technically of age it felt very creepy as he is only 18) but he was very manipulative and I didn’t like that at all.
And for the Dom. He was marginally better but not by much. He is 24 and should know better. All in all I struggled to finish and you could see the bad guy coming from a mile away.
I will read the next one cause I have been interested in Sebastian from the beginning but I really hope Tripp goes on a different direction than in this book (I actually liked him in book one) cause I’m tired of teenage subs. Sebastian needs a worthy “opponent“ if that makes sense.
May 16, 2021
This one has issues..correction.. I had issues with this one.
Arlo parents aren’t abusive just absent in the caring department. His father spends his days parked in front of the TV drinking. His mother is a functional drunk. She goes to work, then spends her evenings drinking herself into oblivion.
Arlo wants someone to notice him, to care about him. He leaves home looking for affection and falls prey to a human trafficking ring. He spends most of the book not realizing he was a victim. He also has an unhealthy attitude toward food due to his former. He needs professional mental help.
The Scooby gang who rescued him in book one are all older and well educated. One is a prosecuting attorney. They should have gotten Arlo professional help. No one ever mentions it. Arlo should ave also been tested for aids. Again no one mentions it.
Cade is twenty four to Arlo’s eighteen. He made me so angry at times. Arlo is naive kid. He is not street smart and savvy. He is too trusting, immature, and clueless about providing food and shelter for himself. He wants a Dom to take care of him.
Cade calls him angel, has sex with him, then pushes him away insisting Arlo needs to stand on his own two feet. His hot cold act is confusing at best.
The only bright spot is the Scooby gang got the bad guys from book one.
Arlo parents aren’t abusive just absent in the caring department. His father spends his days parked in front of the TV drinking. His mother is a functional drunk. She goes to work, then spends her evenings drinking herself into oblivion.
Arlo wants someone to notice him, to care about him. He leaves home looking for affection and falls prey to a human trafficking ring. He spends most of the book not realizing he was a victim. He also has an unhealthy attitude toward food due to his former. He needs professional mental help.
The Scooby gang who rescued him in book one are all older and well educated. One is a prosecuting attorney. They should have gotten Arlo professional help. No one ever mentions it. Arlo should ave also been tested for aids. Again no one mentions it.
Cade is twenty four to Arlo’s eighteen. He made me so angry at times. Arlo is naive kid. He is not street smart and savvy. He is too trusting, immature, and clueless about providing food and shelter for himself. He wants a Dom to take care of him.
Cade calls him angel, has sex with him, then pushes him away insisting Arlo needs to stand on his own two feet. His hot cold act is confusing at best.
The only bright spot is the Scooby gang got the bad guys from book one.
June 7, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Note: Chicken Soup Dom is a direct follow up from Kitchen Sink Dom where the characters are investigating Arlo’s disappearance. As this is Arlo’s story, this book and review will spoil the basics of what happened to him. Also, be aware that this story does describe a past abusive situation with an on-page scene in the prologue. Arlo also has issues with his weight and disordered eating that appear on page.
The main focus of the story is on the personal aftermath for Arlo and the developing relationship between him and Brixby. There is an obvious conflict built in right from the start in that Arlo is young, traumatized, and really unaware of what an ethical Dom/sub relationship should look like. He was not happy living with his Master, but he also assumes that the way he was treated was normal and that any disappointment is due to his own failure. In reality, he was physically and mentally abused, kept caged, and near starved. He left home because his parents were neglectful and he felt unloved and he hoped that finding a Master would change all of that. So Arlo is now not only physically recovering, but mentally he doesn’t fully understand what was wrong with the situation he has been rescued from.
3.75 stars
Note: Chicken Soup Dom is a direct follow up from Kitchen Sink Dom where the characters are investigating Arlo’s disappearance. As this is Arlo’s story, this book and review will spoil the basics of what happened to him. Also, be aware that this story does describe a past abusive situation with an on-page scene in the prologue. Arlo also has issues with his weight and disordered eating that appear on page.
The main focus of the story is on the personal aftermath for Arlo and the developing relationship between him and Brixby. There is an obvious conflict built in right from the start in that Arlo is young, traumatized, and really unaware of what an ethical Dom/sub relationship should look like. He was not happy living with his Master, but he also assumes that the way he was treated was normal and that any disappointment is due to his own failure. In reality, he was physically and mentally abused, kept caged, and near starved. He left home because his parents were neglectful and he felt unloved and he hoped that finding a Master would change all of that. So Arlo is now not only physically recovering, but mentally he doesn’t fully understand what was wrong with the situation he has been rescued from.
April 25, 2021
2.5 rounded down
I really enjoyed the first book in this series so I was optimistic going into this one but it was a big letdown. The relationship between Cade and Arlo developed way too quickly for me to really buy it, and I found Arlo's youth here to be really fucking annoying. I thought his headspace was well captured, but he came off super immature and it was a total turnoff and completely threw me out of being interested in him in a romantic/kinky relationship. And I'm normally all for the dynamic in this book, but the back and forth between him and Cade on the "issues" in their relationship got old super quick, and I felt like none of it actually sunk in for Arlo and eventually Cade just gave in. IDK, I was totally uninterested and the whole relationship and dynamic rubbed me the wrong way. I also, sadly, found Tripp to be SO much less likable in this book, which is upsetting because he's one of the MCs in the next book and that's one I've been very much intrigued by because of Sebastian. Still plan on giving it a read but I'll be going into it was lower expectations.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series so I was optimistic going into this one but it was a big letdown. The relationship between Cade and Arlo developed way too quickly for me to really buy it, and I found Arlo's youth here to be really fucking annoying. I thought his headspace was well captured, but he came off super immature and it was a total turnoff and completely threw me out of being interested in him in a romantic/kinky relationship. And I'm normally all for the dynamic in this book, but the back and forth between him and Cade on the "issues" in their relationship got old super quick, and I felt like none of it actually sunk in for Arlo and eventually Cade just gave in. IDK, I was totally uninterested and the whole relationship and dynamic rubbed me the wrong way. I also, sadly, found Tripp to be SO much less likable in this book, which is upsetting because he's one of the MCs in the next book and that's one I've been very much intrigued by because of Sebastian. Still plan on giving it a read but I'll be going into it was lower expectations.
June 24, 2024
Nayeli -per RFS
.
Prosegue, in questo secondo volume della serie, l’indagine sul traffico di esseri umani che sfrutta l’ingenuità di sub giovani e inesperti, ansiosi di appartenere a qualcuno a qualsiasi costo. Il loro desiderio di sentirsi accuditi e importanti per un Dom, chiunque esso sia, li porta ad accettare volontariamente una posizione di schiavitù nelle mani di sadici privi di scrupoli, etica, rispetto delle basi del BDSM. Nel volume precedente un gruppo di personaggi uniti dalla missione di incriminare i colpevoli della tratta aveva iniziato a collaborare. Un poliziotto, un procuratore, un investigatore, una Domme, alcuni sub e, in questo volume, anche un agente dell’FBI che pare transgender, continuano, ognuno con il proprio ruolo, a cercare di salvare le vittime e di infiltrarsi, mentre cercano di trovare le prove e definire i capi di imputazione. Nel frattempo sono riusciti a liberare già due ragazzi, tra cui Arlo.
Nonostante sia stato tenuto in una gabbia praticamente senza cibo, era così soggiogato e convinto che tutto fosse frutto di un suo desiderio che tuttora prova nostalgia per il suo vecchio Master. Proprio questo è l’esempio di quanto possa risultare difficile incastrare i carnefici della tratta di sub, essendo difficile provare il superamento del confine tra abuso e sottomissione volontaria a un rapporto di schiavitù.
«No, non è una festa per giocare, solo una semplice cena. E parleremo di ciò che è successo a te e alle altre vittime.» «Non sono una vittima, magari un fallimento.» «Smettila, per favore.» Lo abbracciò più forte. «Non sopporto di sentirti parlare così di te.» «Non sai che schifo di sub sono stato.» «So che non sei stato uno schifo. Devi essere bellissimo in ginocchio, anzi, perfetto secondo me. Perfetto per chiunque, intendo. E, sì, tu sei stato una vittima. Sei stato rapito…» «No, non è così. Mike ha detto che poteva farmi mettere con chi stavo cercando, quindi l’ho fatto. Sembrava un affare d’oro.» «Cosa sembrava d’oro?» «La parte kink. Era quello che volevo. E la parte dove avrei avuto un posto in cui stare.»
Quando passa sotto le cure di Brixby, Arlo ancora non comprende in che modo il vecchio Dom aveva abusato del ruolo privilegiato, e la sua razionalità è così plasmata da aver zittito i propri bisogni, ritenendo di aver agito correttamente nel donare tutto se stesso per compiacere il proprio Padrone, rispettando in effetti i compiti di un bravo sottomesso che si dona completamente. Non riesce a vedere che il Master avrebbe dovuto a sua volta prendersi cura di lui, farsi carico di ogni sua necessità, ma è stato troppo condizionato dallo squilibrio di potere per osare mettere in discussione le azioni del suo Padrone.
Compito di Brixby è mostrargli non solo che le sue preferenze kink non sono sbagliate e non lo rendono colpevole per la situazione abusante in cui si è trovato, ma anche che un Master non vale l’altro: il rapporto D/s è una relazione tra persone, prima che tra ruoli, fondata su fiducia e rispetto.
È esplorata in modo accurato e graduale la psicologia di Arlo che, ansioso di sentirsi importante per qualcuno, confonde pratiche brutali, possessive, degradanti con dimostrazioni di attenzione, interesse, affetto. E il percorso di consapevolezza con cui si libererà della manipolazione indotta dal Master e imparerà a comprendere di avere il diritto di imporre limiti, di poter usare l’uso della safeword per uscire dal gioco quando non si sente più a suo agio e a pretendere che il Dom dia valore alla fiducia che gli concede saranno al centro delle vicende di questo volume.
Mike gli aveva dato alcuni fogli e una penna. Si era appoggiato al muro del club e aveva firmato alla luce di un lampione. «Penso che dicesse che appartenevo al Master, ma con molte più parole per renderlo legale.» «Vedete, è questo quello che intendo dire di voi due,» sospirò Ilona. «Non avete idea di quello che state facendo. Un contratto non è una vendita, ma due persone che negoziano su come funzionerà una relazione D/s, quali sono le tue responsabilità, quali le loro. Qual era la responsabilità del tuo Master, Arlo?» «Di tenermi.» Ilona scosse la testa. «Dovresti volere di più, avere un po’ di rispetto per te stesso, perché essere un sub non significa fare da zerbino.»
Brixby è poco esperto nello stile di vita BDSM, che ha frequentato quando era più giovane, ma ha un’innata sensibilità e attenzione ai dettagli emotivi che lo rendono perfetto per il ruolo di Dom. È un bravo ragazzo, non vuole approfittarsi di una persona confusa, traumatizzata e non pienamente consapevole, quindi cerca di controllare il più a lungo possibile il suo istinto protettivo e l’attrazione per il giovane sub, limitandosi a concedere affetto fraterno. Arlo rimane però così insoddisfatto e bisognoso che presto Brixby capisce quanto sia utile fornirgli l’esempio di dinamiche BDSM sane e consensuali.
Ma Arlo è in cerca non solo di un Dom quanto di una guida, una figura autorevole positiva, di struttura e stabilità; ha il desiderio di sottomettersi a qualcuno non solo per il senso di appartenenza e di cura che questo comporta, quanto per il piacere di impegnarsi per compiacerlo. È solo comprendendo a fondo questo bisogno che Brixby gli potrà essere d’aiuto nel superare le vecchie convinzioni indotte dal vecchio Master, mettendosi sempre più in gioco in un rapporto in cui i ruoli sono squilibrati. Il poliziotto è davvero affascinato dal sub neofita, tuttavia è restio a mettere in gioco i sentimenti, poiché per lui è importante che un partner non sia tanto disperato da attaccarsi al primo Dom gentile disposto a offrire vitto e alloggio. Vorrebbe essere scelto consapevolmente senza forzature.
Mentre lui sollevava lo sguardo verso gli occhi socchiusi di Cade, un lampo di comprensione lo trafisse: poteva chiedere ciò che lo eccitava. Quelle fantasie che aveva mentre visitava certi siti web… Potevano succedere davvero, e non per caso, né perché il BDSM era automaticamente meraviglioso. Potevano succedere perché le chiedeva lui e perché aveva un partner disposto ad ascoltare. Cade era perfetto per lui, perché voleva esserlo, e Arlo non si limitava a volergli bene. Lui lo amava.
Nell’approfondire le sfaccettature delle preoccupazioni che possono appesantire i Dom, il romanzo tratta di un altro tema curioso che non avevo mai considerato, ovvero l’aspetto finanziario legato a una relazione D/s a tempo pieno.
Sulle spalle di Brixby, che è solo un ragazzo agli inizi della carriera in polizia, pesa l’onere di mantenere non solo se stesso ma anche il suo sub, e con questo si intende uno spazio adeguato per ospitarlo, e fondi per mantenerlo e viziarlo. Non è detto che tutti i sub desiderino essere coccolati con cose costose, ma questo rappresenta un aspetto a cui un Daddy Dom accudente tiene, e non riuscire a farlo può rappresentare una frustrazione.
.
Prosegue, in questo secondo volume della serie, l’indagine sul traffico di esseri umani che sfrutta l’ingenuità di sub giovani e inesperti, ansiosi di appartenere a qualcuno a qualsiasi costo. Il loro desiderio di sentirsi accuditi e importanti per un Dom, chiunque esso sia, li porta ad accettare volontariamente una posizione di schiavitù nelle mani di sadici privi di scrupoli, etica, rispetto delle basi del BDSM. Nel volume precedente un gruppo di personaggi uniti dalla missione di incriminare i colpevoli della tratta aveva iniziato a collaborare. Un poliziotto, un procuratore, un investigatore, una Domme, alcuni sub e, in questo volume, anche un agente dell’FBI che pare transgender, continuano, ognuno con il proprio ruolo, a cercare di salvare le vittime e di infiltrarsi, mentre cercano di trovare le prove e definire i capi di imputazione. Nel frattempo sono riusciti a liberare già due ragazzi, tra cui Arlo.
Nonostante sia stato tenuto in una gabbia praticamente senza cibo, era così soggiogato e convinto che tutto fosse frutto di un suo desiderio che tuttora prova nostalgia per il suo vecchio Master. Proprio questo è l’esempio di quanto possa risultare difficile incastrare i carnefici della tratta di sub, essendo difficile provare il superamento del confine tra abuso e sottomissione volontaria a un rapporto di schiavitù.
«No, non è una festa per giocare, solo una semplice cena. E parleremo di ciò che è successo a te e alle altre vittime.» «Non sono una vittima, magari un fallimento.» «Smettila, per favore.» Lo abbracciò più forte. «Non sopporto di sentirti parlare così di te.» «Non sai che schifo di sub sono stato.» «So che non sei stato uno schifo. Devi essere bellissimo in ginocchio, anzi, perfetto secondo me. Perfetto per chiunque, intendo. E, sì, tu sei stato una vittima. Sei stato rapito…» «No, non è così. Mike ha detto che poteva farmi mettere con chi stavo cercando, quindi l’ho fatto. Sembrava un affare d’oro.» «Cosa sembrava d’oro?» «La parte kink. Era quello che volevo. E la parte dove avrei avuto un posto in cui stare.»
Quando passa sotto le cure di Brixby, Arlo ancora non comprende in che modo il vecchio Dom aveva abusato del ruolo privilegiato, e la sua razionalità è così plasmata da aver zittito i propri bisogni, ritenendo di aver agito correttamente nel donare tutto se stesso per compiacere il proprio Padrone, rispettando in effetti i compiti di un bravo sottomesso che si dona completamente. Non riesce a vedere che il Master avrebbe dovuto a sua volta prendersi cura di lui, farsi carico di ogni sua necessità, ma è stato troppo condizionato dallo squilibrio di potere per osare mettere in discussione le azioni del suo Padrone.
Compito di Brixby è mostrargli non solo che le sue preferenze kink non sono sbagliate e non lo rendono colpevole per la situazione abusante in cui si è trovato, ma anche che un Master non vale l’altro: il rapporto D/s è una relazione tra persone, prima che tra ruoli, fondata su fiducia e rispetto.
È esplorata in modo accurato e graduale la psicologia di Arlo che, ansioso di sentirsi importante per qualcuno, confonde pratiche brutali, possessive, degradanti con dimostrazioni di attenzione, interesse, affetto. E il percorso di consapevolezza con cui si libererà della manipolazione indotta dal Master e imparerà a comprendere di avere il diritto di imporre limiti, di poter usare l’uso della safeword per uscire dal gioco quando non si sente più a suo agio e a pretendere che il Dom dia valore alla fiducia che gli concede saranno al centro delle vicende di questo volume.
Mike gli aveva dato alcuni fogli e una penna. Si era appoggiato al muro del club e aveva firmato alla luce di un lampione. «Penso che dicesse che appartenevo al Master, ma con molte più parole per renderlo legale.» «Vedete, è questo quello che intendo dire di voi due,» sospirò Ilona. «Non avete idea di quello che state facendo. Un contratto non è una vendita, ma due persone che negoziano su come funzionerà una relazione D/s, quali sono le tue responsabilità, quali le loro. Qual era la responsabilità del tuo Master, Arlo?» «Di tenermi.» Ilona scosse la testa. «Dovresti volere di più, avere un po’ di rispetto per te stesso, perché essere un sub non significa fare da zerbino.»
Brixby è poco esperto nello stile di vita BDSM, che ha frequentato quando era più giovane, ma ha un’innata sensibilità e attenzione ai dettagli emotivi che lo rendono perfetto per il ruolo di Dom. È un bravo ragazzo, non vuole approfittarsi di una persona confusa, traumatizzata e non pienamente consapevole, quindi cerca di controllare il più a lungo possibile il suo istinto protettivo e l’attrazione per il giovane sub, limitandosi a concedere affetto fraterno. Arlo rimane però così insoddisfatto e bisognoso che presto Brixby capisce quanto sia utile fornirgli l’esempio di dinamiche BDSM sane e consensuali.
Ma Arlo è in cerca non solo di un Dom quanto di una guida, una figura autorevole positiva, di struttura e stabilità; ha il desiderio di sottomettersi a qualcuno non solo per il senso di appartenenza e di cura che questo comporta, quanto per il piacere di impegnarsi per compiacerlo. È solo comprendendo a fondo questo bisogno che Brixby gli potrà essere d’aiuto nel superare le vecchie convinzioni indotte dal vecchio Master, mettendosi sempre più in gioco in un rapporto in cui i ruoli sono squilibrati. Il poliziotto è davvero affascinato dal sub neofita, tuttavia è restio a mettere in gioco i sentimenti, poiché per lui è importante che un partner non sia tanto disperato da attaccarsi al primo Dom gentile disposto a offrire vitto e alloggio. Vorrebbe essere scelto consapevolmente senza forzature.
Mentre lui sollevava lo sguardo verso gli occhi socchiusi di Cade, un lampo di comprensione lo trafisse: poteva chiedere ciò che lo eccitava. Quelle fantasie che aveva mentre visitava certi siti web… Potevano succedere davvero, e non per caso, né perché il BDSM era automaticamente meraviglioso. Potevano succedere perché le chiedeva lui e perché aveva un partner disposto ad ascoltare. Cade era perfetto per lui, perché voleva esserlo, e Arlo non si limitava a volergli bene. Lui lo amava.
Nell’approfondire le sfaccettature delle preoccupazioni che possono appesantire i Dom, il romanzo tratta di un altro tema curioso che non avevo mai considerato, ovvero l’aspetto finanziario legato a una relazione D/s a tempo pieno.
Sulle spalle di Brixby, che è solo un ragazzo agli inizi della carriera in polizia, pesa l’onere di mantenere non solo se stesso ma anche il suo sub, e con questo si intende uno spazio adeguato per ospitarlo, e fondi per mantenerlo e viziarlo. Non è detto che tutti i sub desiderino essere coccolati con cose costose, ma questo rappresenta un aspetto a cui un Daddy Dom accudente tiene, e non riuscire a farlo può rappresentare una frustrazione.
May 10, 2021
I love this series, but I think I liked the first book even more than this one.
As could be expected, this book was strong on the hurt/comfort and that's right up my alley. Though with with the way this series was built up, I would have prefered a stronger focus on the suspense plot and less time spent in Brixby's head. Gotta love him as a character, though, so it's all good and I still flew through the pages.
And I wanna go on reading, but I am a little wary of Sebastian as MC. Won't let that stop me, of course...
As could be expected, this book was strong on the hurt/comfort and that's right up my alley. Though with with the way this series was built up, I would have prefered a stronger focus on the suspense plot and less time spent in Brixby's head. Gotta love him as a character, though, so it's all good and I still flew through the pages.
And I wanna go on reading, but I am a little wary of Sebastian as MC. Won't let that stop me, of course...
April 20, 2021
Spoiler alert: My reviews are usually spoiler-free, but since this is the second book in a series in which the novels should be read within order, there are some spoilers for Book 1. Also, I comment in length on an adult activities scene that's in the first third of this book.
I knew this book wouldn't be easy to review.
Tanya Chris' Hell's Bedroom is a series of three books, each following a different couple, but with a crime subplot. In the first one - Kitchen Sink Dom, subs were going missing and while we followed the investigation, it was through the eyes of the private detective hired to look into the matter. Chicken Soup Dom continues with the issue of the human trafficking ring, but from the POV of one of the victims. This makes the subject matter much heavier and while Tanya didn't go too graphic with the details, this might be a difficult read for some of you.
Trauma is an extremely sensitive topic and the process of recovering is different for each individual going through it. As such, it's hard for me to judge how well the matter was handled, but...
The first sex scene.
I have so many conflicting emotions about it.
But let's take a step back and return all the way to the title - Chicken Soup Dom. From that alone, we can gather that this book is going to be about healing. Brixby does everything in his power to help Arlo come to terms with what had happened and to help the younger man move on; the officer is caring and considerate, and can be patient... To a point.
And that point is about 30% into the book where the abovementioned scene takes place.
It's only been a few days since Arlo's rescue. He's still confused and vulnerable. Brixby acknowledges that and fights off his own impulses to get closer to the teen. But then Arlo insists that he needs a physical connection to feel better and Brixby gives into his request.
Here's why I'm split on this.
On one hand, Brixby gives Arlo what Arlo needs, but on the other, is Arlo in the right headspace to know what he needs?
That aside, the scene is handled pretty well. It's not written in a scintillating way, aimed to stimulate the readers, but as an outcome of two people wanting the same thing. If Arlo hadn't just gone through what he'd been through, I'd actually really like that scene.
But Brixby himself later acknowledges that he should've kept a clear head since Arlo wasn't in the right mental state.
As I said earlier, everyone copes with trauma in their own way, but I still can't help but feel that it was too early.
It, however, shows us that Brixby has his flaws, making him more realistic, but that same realism is what pushes me more towards the "They should've waited" camp.
This scene, or more particularly the timing of this scene, is the only big negative in the novel. There's also the matter of a certain character making it very obvious that they are involved in something, yet none of the other characters seem to realize it, but that's a very tiny issue. On the whole, Chicken Soup Dom set out to be a story about healing and for the most part hits its mark.
I'd recommend Chicken Soup Dom to those who've enjoyed Tanya's Kitchen Sink Dom.
I knew this book wouldn't be easy to review.
Tanya Chris' Hell's Bedroom is a series of three books, each following a different couple, but with a crime subplot. In the first one - Kitchen Sink Dom, subs were going missing and while we followed the investigation, it was through the eyes of the private detective hired to look into the matter. Chicken Soup Dom continues with the issue of the human trafficking ring, but from the POV of one of the victims. This makes the subject matter much heavier and while Tanya didn't go too graphic with the details, this might be a difficult read for some of you.
Trauma is an extremely sensitive topic and the process of recovering is different for each individual going through it. As such, it's hard for me to judge how well the matter was handled, but...
The first sex scene.
I have so many conflicting emotions about it.
But let's take a step back and return all the way to the title - Chicken Soup Dom. From that alone, we can gather that this book is going to be about healing. Brixby does everything in his power to help Arlo come to terms with what had happened and to help the younger man move on; the officer is caring and considerate, and can be patient... To a point.
And that point is about 30% into the book where the abovementioned scene takes place.
It's only been a few days since Arlo's rescue. He's still confused and vulnerable. Brixby acknowledges that and fights off his own impulses to get closer to the teen. But then Arlo insists that he needs a physical connection to feel better and Brixby gives into his request.
Here's why I'm split on this.
On one hand, Brixby gives Arlo what Arlo needs, but on the other, is Arlo in the right headspace to know what he needs?
That aside, the scene is handled pretty well. It's not written in a scintillating way, aimed to stimulate the readers, but as an outcome of two people wanting the same thing. If Arlo hadn't just gone through what he'd been through, I'd actually really like that scene.
But Brixby himself later acknowledges that he should've kept a clear head since Arlo wasn't in the right mental state.
As I said earlier, everyone copes with trauma in their own way, but I still can't help but feel that it was too early.
It, however, shows us that Brixby has his flaws, making him more realistic, but that same realism is what pushes me more towards the "They should've waited" camp.
This scene, or more particularly the timing of this scene, is the only big negative in the novel. There's also the matter of a certain character making it very obvious that they are involved in something, yet none of the other characters seem to realize it, but that's a very tiny issue. On the whole, Chicken Soup Dom set out to be a story about healing and for the most part hits its mark.
I'd recommend Chicken Soup Dom to those who've enjoyed Tanya's Kitchen Sink Dom.
April 21, 2021
My primary complaint is that it was too short! (Is that really a complaint?) I wanted more of Arlo and Cade. <3
When I finished book 1 I was pleasantly surprised to realize this was a trilogy, but now that I've finished book 2 I'm so sad it's only a trilogy. Both books so far have had engaging plots and a cute, cuddly relationships, along with well-developed side characters (rare in the romance genre). It's perfect escapism.
That being said, I really do think it was too short, and that the climax wasn't directed quite where it should have been. The book is called Chicken Soup Dom, which would seem to promise coziness and safety and recovery for Arlo.
Still, overall, it was a fun and short read, and the premise of the whole series sort of necessitates that you don't take it too seriously.
My favorite sentence: "It was fuller, more complete, than anything he'd ever felt before, as if every positive emotion he'd ever had toward anyone were wrapped up in this single yearning for the heart beating next to his."
When I finished book 1 I was pleasantly surprised to realize this was a trilogy, but now that I've finished book 2 I'm so sad it's only a trilogy. Both books so far have had engaging plots and a cute, cuddly relationships, along with well-developed side characters (rare in the romance genre). It's perfect escapism.
That being said, I really do think it was too short, and that the climax wasn't directed quite where it should have been. The book is called Chicken Soup Dom, which would seem to promise coziness and safety and recovery for Arlo.
Still, overall, it was a fun and short read, and the premise of the whole series sort of necessitates that you don't take it too seriously.
My favorite sentence: "It was fuller, more complete, than anything he'd ever felt before, as if every positive emotion he'd ever had toward anyone were wrapped up in this single yearning for the heart beating next to his."
April 16, 2021
CHICKEN SOUP DOM
Tanya Chris
Oh my gosh, what an exciting book this was!
Fundamentally, a follow up on Kitchen Sink Dom, but totally a complete story on its own.
The theme of this (as seen in the blurb) centers around a mysterious human trafficking situation connected to a popular bdsm club.
We meet Arlo (a victim) and Cade (a police officer) and the story of the rescue and rehabilitation of sweet Arlo.
I won't expound on this, because this book is so exciting as the events unfold.
As always, Tanya's writing is brilliant, the plot so well planned out and perfectly paced that you resent having to lay the book aside for even a moment.
You'll experience intrigue, action, romance, humor and enough snark to make you want to dish out a few spankings yourself, lol.
I absolutely loved both mcs in this story, and all of the significant side players whose individual characters are extremely well drawn.
World building is clear and comfortable to imagine.
The bdsm aspect is explained and displayed with knowledge and sensitivity, so this book is thoroughly relatable and enjoyable, even if you are not a fan of bdsm reads.
Well done, Tanya!
I loved it!
Highly recommended.
° Standalone
° Heat level 3 🔥 for adult content.
(actual scenes of explicit intimacy only a few and limited, but justified profanity. Acts of violence told and alluded to, but no on-page incidents as such, but the prologue is sad and possibly triggering)
° Dual POV third person/past tense
° Disclaimer : I requested, and received a complementary copt of this book directly from the author, and have willingly and voluntarily submitted this review.
Tanya Chris
Oh my gosh, what an exciting book this was!
Fundamentally, a follow up on Kitchen Sink Dom, but totally a complete story on its own.
The theme of this (as seen in the blurb) centers around a mysterious human trafficking situation connected to a popular bdsm club.
We meet Arlo (a victim) and Cade (a police officer) and the story of the rescue and rehabilitation of sweet Arlo.
I won't expound on this, because this book is so exciting as the events unfold.
As always, Tanya's writing is brilliant, the plot so well planned out and perfectly paced that you resent having to lay the book aside for even a moment.
You'll experience intrigue, action, romance, humor and enough snark to make you want to dish out a few spankings yourself, lol.
I absolutely loved both mcs in this story, and all of the significant side players whose individual characters are extremely well drawn.
World building is clear and comfortable to imagine.
The bdsm aspect is explained and displayed with knowledge and sensitivity, so this book is thoroughly relatable and enjoyable, even if you are not a fan of bdsm reads.
Well done, Tanya!
I loved it!
Highly recommended.
° Standalone
° Heat level 3 🔥 for adult content.
(actual scenes of explicit intimacy only a few and limited, but justified profanity. Acts of violence told and alluded to, but no on-page incidents as such, but the prologue is sad and possibly triggering)
° Dual POV third person/past tense
° Disclaimer : I requested, and received a complementary copt of this book directly from the author, and have willingly and voluntarily submitted this review.
April 20, 2021
I knew this series is going to be a new favorite, but one thing I wasn't ready for. My love for Arlo&Brixby. Ahh, my heart, these two!
After finishing the first book, I just couldn't wait to read more and I wanted Arlo and Brixby's story so much, but I didn't know this book is going to be this good! It was just perfect. From the first letter to the very last, perfect!
Arlo is the sweetest ever and the only thing he wants in life is to be loved and be cared for. I love adorable subs who are desperate to be loved, and Arlo was just perfect. Loved everything about him and how he called Brixby 'Officer Brixby' all the time, it was so cute and HOT! And Brixby! Ahh, the perfect dom for Arlo. Loved that Brixby was careful and didn't want Arlo to suffer more, even if it's meant that he had to suffer to stay away from him. But let's be clear, it was the hardest for both of them - stay away from each other? They were so deeply in love, and the love at first sight for both of them was just so beuatiful.
Brixby is the most caring and patient dom ever, he was just precious with Arlo. And Arlo, sweet, sweet Arlo, when he was afraid of losing Brixby, and when he realised that all the things he wants is okay and so much better then he thought.
The human trafficking part of the story is really interesting too and I loved that it wasn't just for a few pages, it has deep meaning and emotions. Tanya writes really well and I love how she explained everything. And how Arlo's eyes were opening to the things too. Arlo realised that he really was kidnapped.
The book is both deeply romantic and tragic sometimes. It has hot and sweet romance and erotic scenes, and I just loved everything about it. My favorite at this moment, but I really couldn't wait for Sebastian and Tripp's story!
Highly recommend!
After finishing the first book, I just couldn't wait to read more and I wanted Arlo and Brixby's story so much, but I didn't know this book is going to be this good! It was just perfect. From the first letter to the very last, perfect!
Arlo is the sweetest ever and the only thing he wants in life is to be loved and be cared for. I love adorable subs who are desperate to be loved, and Arlo was just perfect. Loved everything about him and how he called Brixby 'Officer Brixby' all the time, it was so cute and HOT! And Brixby! Ahh, the perfect dom for Arlo. Loved that Brixby was careful and didn't want Arlo to suffer more, even if it's meant that he had to suffer to stay away from him. But let's be clear, it was the hardest for both of them - stay away from each other? They were so deeply in love, and the love at first sight for both of them was just so beuatiful.
Brixby is the most caring and patient dom ever, he was just precious with Arlo. And Arlo, sweet, sweet Arlo, when he was afraid of losing Brixby, and when he realised that all the things he wants is okay and so much better then he thought.
The human trafficking part of the story is really interesting too and I loved that it wasn't just for a few pages, it has deep meaning and emotions. Tanya writes really well and I love how she explained everything. And how Arlo's eyes were opening to the things too. Arlo realised that he really was kidnapped.
The book is both deeply romantic and tragic sometimes. It has hot and sweet romance and erotic scenes, and I just loved everything about it. My favorite at this moment, but I really couldn't wait for Sebastian and Tripp's story!
Highly recommend!
April 22, 2021
This book is best read after the first in the trilogy, rather than as a stand-alone, to get the most from the established characters, their relationships, and the ongoing external plot. I looked forward to continuing the adventure after the fun first book and was not disappointed on that front. Our kinky vigilante group is determined to take down this human trafficking ring, despite the multiple obstacles in their way, and Cade Brixby is especially determined to still help now that he’s gotten closer to one rescued victim, Arlo.
The featured relationship in this book is significantly less overtly kinky than the previous, which both fits the characters and is more appropriate to what Arlo has already survived. This story hits home how the American justice system doesn’t do much for victims because Arlo (and Kimi) desperately needed to be in therapy after their experiences. Not for the kinky stuff, which is once again enforced in this story as not a problem, but to help Arlo heal from the mental issues he did develop, such as his disordered eating. Instead, he and Brixby muddle along until they kind of fall into a relationship, then a romance. It was sweet and real but made me as twitchy as Brixby at times (though for different reasons).
However, neither Arlo nor Brixby are stagnant characters, and I loved the development they do experience both separately and together. I also thoroughly enjoyed the progression of the external plot, which included a shocking, unexpected reveal. I look forward to the trilogy’s conclusion, especially because I’m intrigued by Sage as a character, Tripp annoys me as a character, and I can’t wait to see what Chris does with them together.
The featured relationship in this book is significantly less overtly kinky than the previous, which both fits the characters and is more appropriate to what Arlo has already survived. This story hits home how the American justice system doesn’t do much for victims because Arlo (and Kimi) desperately needed to be in therapy after their experiences. Not for the kinky stuff, which is once again enforced in this story as not a problem, but to help Arlo heal from the mental issues he did develop, such as his disordered eating. Instead, he and Brixby muddle along until they kind of fall into a relationship, then a romance. It was sweet and real but made me as twitchy as Brixby at times (though for different reasons).
However, neither Arlo nor Brixby are stagnant characters, and I loved the development they do experience both separately and together. I also thoroughly enjoyed the progression of the external plot, which included a shocking, unexpected reveal. I look forward to the trilogy’s conclusion, especially because I’m intrigued by Sage as a character, Tripp annoys me as a character, and I can’t wait to see what Chris does with them together.
April 19, 2021
As the disclaimer in the blurb states, the opening chapter is a bit disturbing, so beware. In my case, it broke my heart, but thankfully the story after that slowly put it back together.
After Arlo was rescued, he latched onto Brixby, first from hero worship and afterwards because his savior was also the personification of Arlo's dream daddy: caring, gentle and a stern Dom. But Brixby was also realistic and, despite how attracted to Arlo, he knew the younger man needed time to heal. Yet, although hurt, Arlo wasn't broken and knew exactly what and who he wanted, chipping away at Brixby's doubts, until the latter gave in and claimed who he'd always knew was his, to protect and to cherish... and punish, if necessary lol.
As always, Tanya Chris shined at character development. Arlo and Brixby were endearing, funny, passionate, fragile while also strong. Their kinky sides didn't become the whole focus of their relationship, which I appreciated. They had cute flirty interactions, as well as some heavy moments and sexy times, and I thoroughly enjoyed every single one of them.
The secondary characters were a fun contribution to the story, many of their friendly interactions and banter adding cheerfulness and laughter when things got too heavy.
I couldn't put this book down. The overall series plotline was a suspenseful setting for Arlo and Brixby's relationship buildup, the investigative work and action perfectly blended with the romance. Fast paced, gripping, steamy and romantic... definitely recommended.
After Arlo was rescued, he latched onto Brixby, first from hero worship and afterwards because his savior was also the personification of Arlo's dream daddy: caring, gentle and a stern Dom. But Brixby was also realistic and, despite how attracted to Arlo, he knew the younger man needed time to heal. Yet, although hurt, Arlo wasn't broken and knew exactly what and who he wanted, chipping away at Brixby's doubts, until the latter gave in and claimed who he'd always knew was his, to protect and to cherish... and punish, if necessary lol.
As always, Tanya Chris shined at character development. Arlo and Brixby were endearing, funny, passionate, fragile while also strong. Their kinky sides didn't become the whole focus of their relationship, which I appreciated. They had cute flirty interactions, as well as some heavy moments and sexy times, and I thoroughly enjoyed every single one of them.
The secondary characters were a fun contribution to the story, many of their friendly interactions and banter adding cheerfulness and laughter when things got too heavy.
I couldn't put this book down. The overall series plotline was a suspenseful setting for Arlo and Brixby's relationship buildup, the investigative work and action perfectly blended with the romance. Fast paced, gripping, steamy and romantic... definitely recommended.
May 27, 2021
Chicken Soup Dom is the second book in the Hell's Bedroom series, and the story continues from the events in the first book. That said, it also stands on its own pretty well, but I'd still recommend reading book one first. There are some things that happen in book one that give a better grasp of certain situations. And I would advise heeding the warning in the blurb. I don't usually care for trigger warnings, but there are some scenes that could make a reader uncomfortable. I'll admit that this one went a little out there, and I can see how some things may be hard to sit through.. And I'm gonna stop right there to avoid spoilers. What I will say is I loved the characters, and I was invested in how things would play out for them - that's not a surprise where Tanya Chris is concerned. I met both of these characters in the first book and learned just enough about them to know I wanted to know their story. Brixby and Arlo's relationship is a little all over the place while they figure things out, but as I mentioned, I was invested in their HEA. Looking back over this couple's journey, I have to say that this one is a bit different than what I've read by this author, but the fundamentals of why I read her books are still there. The great characters, the emotional journey, and the intriguing worlds I can get lost in. I'm not sure where this series is going next, but I know I want to see more of the characters that make up this world.
April 16, 2021
Arlo's too sweet and trusting for words!😕
3.5-4 🌟stars
I liked the detective/crime solving plot involving the search for players in a human trafficking ring. Even without reading the previous book in the series I had no trouble getting into the story. The central D/s relationship between policeman Cade Bixby and waif wannabe sub Arlo had plenty of heat too. The kink depicted between them is pretty mild.
I just found Arlo too juvenile for his age. Something about his behavior made it difficult for me to connect with his character, especially when his attempts to get his way seem more akin to the actions of a seven year old. He's so trusting and easily misled. Poor Cade has his hands full trying to protect him!
Not one of my favorites by the author but she's got me interested in the unresolved threads of the investigation so I will probably look for the next volume in the series. But for readers who prefer to avoid books ending in cliffhangers, don't worry. The Cade-Arlo central romance is resolved by this book's end.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
3.5-4 🌟stars
I liked the detective/crime solving plot involving the search for players in a human trafficking ring. Even without reading the previous book in the series I had no trouble getting into the story. The central D/s relationship between policeman Cade Bixby and waif wannabe sub Arlo had plenty of heat too. The kink depicted between them is pretty mild.
I just found Arlo too juvenile for his age. Something about his behavior made it difficult for me to connect with his character, especially when his attempts to get his way seem more akin to the actions of a seven year old. He's so trusting and easily misled. Poor Cade has his hands full trying to protect him!
Not one of my favorites by the author but she's got me interested in the unresolved threads of the investigation so I will probably look for the next volume in the series. But for readers who prefer to avoid books ending in cliffhangers, don't worry. The Cade-Arlo central romance is resolved by this book's end.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 12, 2021
This book had a good strong plot that held my interest all the way through. It was definitely connected to Kitchen Sink Dom through the characters that were introduced in that book. Arlo was 18, on the streets looking for a dom of his own to love and care for him. He was drugged and sent on a bus to meet a Dom. The man who 'helped' him said was perfect for him. A perfect Dom he was not. Arlo tried but he could never please the cruel man. Luckily, his friend, Tripp, got worried about him after not seeing him for a while and begged a PI for help to find him. A great deal of the first part of the book is devoted to rescuing him and another victim with the help of the PI and Officer Bixby of the Boston PD.
Arlo ends up staying with Officer Bixby while the case to end the trafficking ring goes on. In a very short while, Arlo is entreating Cade Bixby to be his dom. As Cade takes care of Arlo he continues to work with the PI and the FBI to solve the case all the while attempting to keep his feelings for Arlo from getting out of control. Eventually there is an HEA.
This book is a good continuation of the series and I look forward to reading the next episode.
Arlo ends up staying with Officer Bixby while the case to end the trafficking ring goes on. In a very short while, Arlo is entreating Cade Bixby to be his dom. As Cade takes care of Arlo he continues to work with the PI and the FBI to solve the case all the while attempting to keep his feelings for Arlo from getting out of control. Eventually there is an HEA.
This book is a good continuation of the series and I look forward to reading the next episode.
May 27, 2021
3.75 Stars
Chicken Soup Dom is book 2 in the Hell's Bedroom series and needs to be read in order for maximum enjoyment.
What I Loved: Arlo, he was a sweetheart, resilient and stronger than he appeared at first.
What I Liked: Brixby, he was okay, and for the most part, I liked him with Arlo. I was annoyed with how hot and cold he was with Arlo, though, and that continued throughout the book. The case was interesting, and while it wasn't that difficult to figure who one of the bad guys was, I was still intrigued over how it played out.
What I Didn't Like: That Arlo (and maybe Kimi) didn't receive therapy after what they went through. The idea of BDSM replacing therapy really doesn't work for me. Especially since Arlo was dealing with an eating disorder and the aftermath of what was done to him.
Overall, the book was enjoyable, even if some parts didn't work for me. And I'm intrigued over Tripp and Sebastian, whose book comes next, so I'll likely grab it, too. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Chicken Soup Dom is book 2 in the Hell's Bedroom series and needs to be read in order for maximum enjoyment.
What I Loved: Arlo, he was a sweetheart, resilient and stronger than he appeared at first.
What I Liked: Brixby, he was okay, and for the most part, I liked him with Arlo. I was annoyed with how hot and cold he was with Arlo, though, and that continued throughout the book. The case was interesting, and while it wasn't that difficult to figure who one of the bad guys was, I was still intrigued over how it played out.
What I Didn't Like: That Arlo (and maybe Kimi) didn't receive therapy after what they went through. The idea of BDSM replacing therapy really doesn't work for me. Especially since Arlo was dealing with an eating disorder and the aftermath of what was done to him.
Overall, the book was enjoyable, even if some parts didn't work for me. And I'm intrigued over Tripp and Sebastian, whose book comes next, so I'll likely grab it, too. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
April 20, 2021
I love a good hero story and this one is definitely that. Officer Cade Brixby is just the man you would want to rescue you from a bad situation and they don't get much worse than the situation Arlo finds himself in. As always, Tanya Chris gives us characters we fall in love with and want to see together. What I also appreciate in the books in this series is the way Chris gives information about the appropriate behaviors in a bdsm lifestyle and the emphasis and care given to consent, aftercare and all the things critical to the respect of persons. You know that while the scenes are going to be incredibly hot, they are also going to be loving. The continuing plot thread of the trafficking ring is expertly handled as we unravel the mystery piece by piece in each book. I can't wait to see it all come together in book #3.
April 22, 2021
Solid continuation of the Hell's Bedroom series
This 2nd book in Tanya Chris's trilogy picks up right where Kitchen Sink Dom left off. What I found most interesting was the tension over real life details -- this is no suave billionaire Dom but a 24 year old on a tight budget with career insecurity. He's presented with a delectable but damaged sub whose only IRL experience is as a kidnapped and abused slave but who is now convinced that Cade is his Dom in shining armor. There are some very serious ethical dimensions to sorting out how to move forward, and both characters end up learning and compromising. And yes, the scenes are deliciously hot. (Reviewed from an ARC but I've bought all her other books :)
This 2nd book in Tanya Chris's trilogy picks up right where Kitchen Sink Dom left off. What I found most interesting was the tension over real life details -- this is no suave billionaire Dom but a 24 year old on a tight budget with career insecurity. He's presented with a delectable but damaged sub whose only IRL experience is as a kidnapped and abused slave but who is now convinced that Cade is his Dom in shining armor. There are some very serious ethical dimensions to sorting out how to move forward, and both characters end up learning and compromising. And yes, the scenes are deliciously hot. (Reviewed from an ARC but I've bought all her other books :)
April 22, 2021
Sweet and steamy filled with great characters that are telling an excellent story. This story was about Arlo and Cade who we met in the previous book and they are continuing to try and find the despicable members of the trafficking ring that is selling submissives. There is lots of growth between our MC's, both personal and together. The story-line is great and the pacing kept me reading all in one sitting. This will be a book to read and enjoy!
This is book two in the Hell's Bedroom series and would be best to be read in sequence. The first story really introduces characters and the story-line arch that continues in this book. I am so looking forward to the next book!!!
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my honest opinion and review
This is book two in the Hell's Bedroom series and would be best to be read in sequence. The first story really introduces characters and the story-line arch that continues in this book. I am so looking forward to the next book!!!
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my honest opinion and review
April 30, 2021
I liked Chicken Soup Dom. It's the second book in the Hell's Bedroom series. I loved Arlo and Cade, although Cade got on my nerves a little bit about not listening to what Arlo wanted. It made it seem like just because he's submissive that he doesn't know his own mind or feelings. Arlo wants a dom to take care of him and love him. Cade keeps saying how Arlo should have a better role model of what a dom is but won't give him the full dom experience because he feels he's traumatized from his kidnapper dom. I loved when Harrison talked to him, and Cade finally got his head out of his behind and treated Arlo to a healthy dom/sub relationship. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
April 10, 2021
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. Brixby is ablut to have to make some hard decision in his life when Arlo picks him as his saviour but fear holds sway over his emotional and physical struggle of when it comes to the young man. Arlo and his officer Brixby is one of a dom unwilling to cross a line with an abused sub but Arlo
A loveable sweet sub that just wants a Daddy Dom, a wonderful moving read that pulls the reader in to the grips what happens when you don't have all the facts in the BDSM community.
Tripp still looking And we can't for the landlady Mrs Zhao.
A loveable sweet sub that just wants a Daddy Dom, a wonderful moving read that pulls the reader in to the grips what happens when you don't have all the facts in the BDSM community.
Tripp still looking And we can't for the landlady Mrs Zhao.
April 20, 2021
I am really enjoying this series. I loved that Arlo knew what he wanted and was willing to fight for it. I would have liked Brixby to get a clue a little sooner, his constant back and forth about what was right for Arlo got a little tiring. But I did love how he took care of Arlo, they were very sweet together. Mrs. Zhao was wonderful, I would have enjoyed more of her. It needs better editing as well, but maybe that's because this is an ARC. I'm not entirely sure Arlo still shouldn't get some counseling because he was traumatized no matter how you look at it. It was nice to see Illona and Kimi work out some of their problems too. I look forward to seeing how Brixby and Arlo are doing in the next book because they are adorable.
April 21, 2021
I loved this story and couldn’t put it down. This is the second book in a series but can definitely be read as a standalone. This was Arlo’s story and his recovery and search for the perfect Dom. Officer Brixby was taking the higher road, but his heart and mind were always on Arlo who he felt was emotionally fragile and too young to make any decisions. This story is about emotional growth and gaining an understanding of knowing what you want and fighting for it to the end. It’s about realizing that it doesn’t matter how old you are to know what you want. I highly recommend this book and entire series. It’s that good!
May 8, 2021
Even better than the first
Ok wow that was an emotional and moving read. Arlo melts my heart I just want to snuggle him and Cade is a bag full of yummy and together it's just amazing. I really can't wait to read Sebastian's story because he kind of seems unredeemable but he has show glimpses of what might be inside and I just hope there's more to him then the cruel Dom we have seen so far and if this book is anything to go by then I know this author can make even Sebastian loveable.
A few errors throughout the book for those people that find that a real pet peev but not enough to draw me away from the story.
Ok wow that was an emotional and moving read. Arlo melts my heart I just want to snuggle him and Cade is a bag full of yummy and together it's just amazing. I really can't wait to read Sebastian's story because he kind of seems unredeemable but he has show glimpses of what might be inside and I just hope there's more to him then the cruel Dom we have seen so far and if this book is anything to go by then I know this author can make even Sebastian loveable.
A few errors throughout the book for those people that find that a real pet peev but not enough to draw me away from the story.
May 14, 2021
Great second in the series
I'm really enjoying this series and this is a sweet relationship. I was not expecting certain plot points, which made for a great payoff at the end. I loved that you get the continuation of the background stories from the previous book too.
Whilst I think Arlo's trauma is dealt with sensitively, I still think someone who has been kidnapped by human traffickers should really undergo some therapy around this, instead of figuring it all out on their own with their friends who are not therapists. Maybe he will in the future but it seemed like something important that could have been touched on - love can't heal trauma on it's own.
I'm really enjoying this series and this is a sweet relationship. I was not expecting certain plot points, which made for a great payoff at the end. I loved that you get the continuation of the background stories from the previous book too.
Whilst I think Arlo's trauma is dealt with sensitively, I still think someone who has been kidnapped by human traffickers should really undergo some therapy around this, instead of figuring it all out on their own with their friends who are not therapists. Maybe he will in the future but it seemed like something important that could have been touched on - love can't heal trauma on it's own.
June 6, 2021
3.75 stars - This book works hard to make the main relationship is okay. Arlo is 18 and has just been rescued from a human trafficking situation. Cade is a 24 year old rookie cop who disobeyed orders to help track him down. They end up living together, and while Arlo is like, ‘great! a replacement Dom who is nicer than the one who kept me in a cage!’ Cade is rightfully wary and resists forming any sort of romantic attachment. I think ultimately the book strikes the right balance and it isn’t squicky, but it is a narrow tightrope to the end. I will probably read the last book in the series soon--there is a great cast of characters that has built up so far.
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