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City Hall #3
Cuffed
An Ex-Mayor Looking for a Second Chance
Ross Midberry lost it all in a moment of passion: his job, reputation, and freedom. Prison is no picnic. He doesn’t expect Stormy—a professional he’s fond of—to be his savior. Stormy gives Ross a home after his incarceration and encourages him to move on from his mistakes, while also giving him something he doesn’t know he needs—dominance.
A Professional Finds His Houseboy
Lane Kennedy, also known as Stormy in his career life, has always searched for adventure. Being a Courtesan gives him new and exciting challenges every day. He never planned to want a relationship, until the moment he was caught with Ross in a stairwell at city hall. Now his priorities have changed. He wants to take care of Ross, and in the process, unexpectedly finds himself a houseboy.
A World Filled with Expectations
The media still wants a piece of Ross, while all his friends and family keep their distance. No one wants to hire him, and he’s waiting for Lane to realize he’s now a nobody. But Lane isn’t going anywhere. He has discovered a contentment he didn’t anticipate. Together they must find a new path in a world filled with people who want their pound of flesh from a disgraced mayor.
Ross Midberry lost it all in a moment of passion: his job, reputation, and freedom. Prison is no picnic. He doesn’t expect Stormy—a professional he’s fond of—to be his savior. Stormy gives Ross a home after his incarceration and encourages him to move on from his mistakes, while also giving him something he doesn’t know he needs—dominance.
A Professional Finds His Houseboy
Lane Kennedy, also known as Stormy in his career life, has always searched for adventure. Being a Courtesan gives him new and exciting challenges every day. He never planned to want a relationship, until the moment he was caught with Ross in a stairwell at city hall. Now his priorities have changed. He wants to take care of Ross, and in the process, unexpectedly finds himself a houseboy.
A World Filled with Expectations
The media still wants a piece of Ross, while all his friends and family keep their distance. No one wants to hire him, and he’s waiting for Lane to realize he’s now a nobody. But Lane isn’t going anywhere. He has discovered a contentment he didn’t anticipate. Together they must find a new path in a world filled with people who want their pound of flesh from a disgraced mayor.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 9, 2021
67 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
Ki Brightly
91 books716 followersI spend most of my days writing, editing, and perfecting the craft of storytelling.
A note to readers: I don't hang out on Goodreads or social media, so if you have any questions about my books, please check out my website, which I host with M.D. Gregory.
A note to readers: I don't hang out on Goodreads or social media, so if you have any questions about my books, please check out my website, which I host with M.D. Gregory.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
May 30, 2023
Cuando al Alcalde Ross lo capturan con "los pantalones abajo" teniendo sexo en las escaleras de la Alcaldía, sabe que de esta no lo salva nadie, así que prefiere cerrar la boca y dejar que la policía y la prensa haga lo que quiera de el, pero no toque a los demás dentro de la Alcaldía. Lo que nunca espero fue que el chico con el que lo capturaron fuera el único que estuviera de su lado y lo defendiera contra todo y todos. Pero la única forma que tiene de pagarle es haciendo algo que nunca pensó disfrutar, ser su "chico de casa", aquel que lava, limpia, cocina y mantiene a su senor feliz en todos los sentidos. Ahora, solo tiene que aceptar que es lo que realmente quiere en su vida, y quizás así, puedan ambos ser felices.
Con este libro me entretuve muchísimo, lo lei rapidísimo. Sufrí mucho con Ross, y me divertí con Lane, pero sobre todo me hizo pensar en lo que dependemos casi todos de lo que piensen los demás de nosotros, y si somos figuras publicas es mucho peor. Es increíble lo difícil que puede ser aprender a conocerse lo suficiente y tener la confianza como para andar en la calle diciendo "Este soy yo, no me importa lo que piensen".
En fin, fue un libro, que aunque es un romance BDSM sencillo, me hizo pensar. Para mi, es el mejor libro de la serie hasta ahora. Voy por el ultimo, a ver como el autor va a finalizar las historias de este grupo.
Con este libro me entretuve muchísimo, lo lei rapidísimo. Sufrí mucho con Ross, y me divertí con Lane, pero sobre todo me hizo pensar en lo que dependemos casi todos de lo que piensen los demás de nosotros, y si somos figuras publicas es mucho peor. Es increíble lo difícil que puede ser aprender a conocerse lo suficiente y tener la confianza como para andar en la calle diciendo "Este soy yo, no me importa lo que piensen".
En fin, fue un libro, que aunque es un romance BDSM sencillo, me hizo pensar. Para mi, es el mejor libro de la serie hasta ahora. Voy por el ultimo, a ver como el autor va a finalizar las historias de este grupo.
Read
September 4, 2023i just can't. Daddy and belly boy were bad enough, but i draw the line at Mister and Pookie. DNF 🥴
April 24, 2021
Oh, that was one appetizing narrative!
Ross Midberry made many mistakes as Mayor, the one that hanged him was when he got caught on a city hall stairway with his D in Stormy’s mouth. He got two months in jail.
After that he was broke, he had nothing. He’d paid all his savings to be with Stormy, the high-class hooker, his favorite.
Now, he got nothing, no job, no money, no friends, even his family isn’t there for him.
He can’t believe his luck when Stormy gives him shelter at his home. His apartment is as high class as the man himself.
What he never could imagine in his life to be Stormy’s houseboy, where Stormy is the dominant one.
Well, that was quite the f@ck fest. It was all incredibly sexy af, and even a bit romantic. Maybe a bit repetitive at times.
Besides all the sexiness that was main here, it has also a nice storyline, I loved all the aspects.
It was a fast paced narrative, with engaging characters, quite appealingly written.
Ross Midberry made many mistakes as Mayor, the one that hanged him was when he got caught on a city hall stairway with his D in Stormy’s mouth. He got two months in jail.
After that he was broke, he had nothing. He’d paid all his savings to be with Stormy, the high-class hooker, his favorite.
Now, he got nothing, no job, no money, no friends, even his family isn’t there for him.
He can’t believe his luck when Stormy gives him shelter at his home. His apartment is as high class as the man himself.
What he never could imagine in his life to be Stormy’s houseboy, where Stormy is the dominant one.
Well, that was quite the f@ck fest. It was all incredibly sexy af, and even a bit romantic. Maybe a bit repetitive at times.
Besides all the sexiness that was main here, it has also a nice storyline, I loved all the aspects.
It was a fast paced narrative, with engaging characters, quite appealingly written.
May 27, 2021
It's a hard nope for me. May be some spoilers.
So, it's not often that I DNF a book, but this was one of the rare times that I didn't. Let me start out by saying I read the first two books. I really enjoyed the first, the second one was meh and this one was a no.
I realize that there are every day people who experiment with kink. I also realize that many people experimenting with kink don't completely understand the possible harm, not only physical from impact play, but also mentally and emotionally.
Stormy/Lane isn't a Dom. He doesn't even come across as dominant to me. He comes across as an abuser. I had to stop reading because his treatment of Ross was too much like humiliation to hurt rather than humiliation to satisfy Ross' kink.
My other issue with this book was just how boring it really was. Not even halfway through and I'd given up caring what happened with the characters or what happened at the end of the book. I didn't feel any chemistry between Lane and Ross. I just really didn't care about 2 spoiled people living a live of luxury with some humiliation thrown in the mix.
I didn't read enough to know if there's another book in the series, but the way things are going, it may end up even worse than this one. I just don't understand how the first book so good and the next 2 get progressively worse. Oy.
So, it's not often that I DNF a book, but this was one of the rare times that I didn't. Let me start out by saying I read the first two books. I really enjoyed the first, the second one was meh and this one was a no.
I realize that there are every day people who experiment with kink. I also realize that many people experimenting with kink don't completely understand the possible harm, not only physical from impact play, but also mentally and emotionally.
Stormy/Lane isn't a Dom. He doesn't even come across as dominant to me. He comes across as an abuser. I had to stop reading because his treatment of Ross was too much like humiliation to hurt rather than humiliation to satisfy Ross' kink.
My other issue with this book was just how boring it really was. Not even halfway through and I'd given up caring what happened with the characters or what happened at the end of the book. I didn't feel any chemistry between Lane and Ross. I just really didn't care about 2 spoiled people living a live of luxury with some humiliation thrown in the mix.
I didn't read enough to know if there's another book in the series, but the way things are going, it may end up even worse than this one. I just don't understand how the first book so good and the next 2 get progressively worse. Oy.
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April 10, 2021Welcome back to New Gothenburg’s City Hall! If you’ve been wondering about what happened to Mayor Ross Midberry, like the rest of the good citizens of NG, then your wait is over.
M.D. and I had an absolutely fabulous time writing this book. Ross was a fun character to think about and write. The real question I kept coming back to: what the fuck makes Ross Midberry tick?? He seemed to do as little as possible, rely heavily on his staff, and drink and go looking for sex far, far too often to be healthy or sustainable. Well, it did all catch up to him.
Haha. He totally deserved it. What a shame, right?
If you’re here because you’re wondering what the kink in this book is, I’m going to put it under a spoiler bar!
M.D. and I hope you enjoy this book because we had a really good time with Stormy and Ross. We hope you’ll join us for Mark’s book, which we’re in the process of unravelling at the moment. Mark’s such a tough nut to crack.
Happy reading!
Ki Brightly
M.D. and I had an absolutely fabulous time writing this book. Ross was a fun character to think about and write. The real question I kept coming back to: what the fuck makes Ross Midberry tick?? He seemed to do as little as possible, rely heavily on his staff, and drink and go looking for sex far, far too often to be healthy or sustainable. Well, it did all catch up to him.
If you’re here because you’re wondering what the kink in this book is, I’m going to put it under a spoiler bar!
M.D. and I hope you enjoy this book because we had a really good time with Stormy and Ross. We hope you’ll join us for Mark’s book, which we’re in the process of unravelling at the moment. Mark’s such a tough nut to crack.
Happy reading!
Ki Brightly
June 18, 2022
I loved how different but still sexy this book was. It had a bit of a darker element in how Ross sees himself and what occurs with him. Lane is a great character that is way more then he first appears!
I loved how the story evolved and how the boys love unfolds. Things aren’t always cut and dried and this story shows this.
I loved how the story evolved and how the boys love unfolds. Things aren’t always cut and dried and this story shows this.
April 19, 2021
Interesting storyline, great pacing and the book was really well written. What I loved the most about this book was the two main characters and their dynamics. They had the best chemistry, I wanted every scene to be between the two of them. I just couldn’t get enough of their interactions. They were absolutely perfect together. I really enjoyed reading it!
I received a free copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review
I received a free copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review
April 22, 2021
Phenomenal writing!
I loved the first 2 books, this one just wasn’t it for me. The writing was of course phenomenal but I just couldn’t get into the story.
I loved the first 2 books, this one just wasn’t it for me. The writing was of course phenomenal but I just couldn’t get into the story.
April 28, 2021
I was looking forward to this book, but sadly it wasn't as good as I wanted it to be. My first problem is with the title - I tought we would see many scenes with cuffs in it, but no.
The story itself is good and enojable, but the characters are empty and flat. Ross as a mayor, but aside that he is no one?! He can't do anything, don't know nothing, he's just an empty shell. I don't know how he became mayor on the first place?
Lane/Stormy, he was a more interesting character, but I couldn't get really close to him either. He was a toppy bottom (no, he wasn't a dom).
The kink scenes were great, but I missed more emotions behind them. The biggest problem was Ross and he was why I couldn't enjoy the story as much as I wanted to.
The storyline was really slow and nothing important was really happening, and I think it was over written a bit.
It was a 3star read, nothing unique. I enjoyed some scenes.
The story itself is good and enojable, but the characters are empty and flat. Ross as a mayor, but aside that he is no one?! He can't do anything, don't know nothing, he's just an empty shell. I don't know how he became mayor on the first place?
Lane/Stormy, he was a more interesting character, but I couldn't get really close to him either. He was a toppy bottom (no, he wasn't a dom).
The kink scenes were great, but I missed more emotions behind them. The biggest problem was Ross and he was why I couldn't enjoy the story as much as I wanted to.
The storyline was really slow and nothing important was really happening, and I think it was over written a bit.
It was a 3star read, nothing unique. I enjoyed some scenes.
April 21, 2021
Good read
I don't think I've read anything from this duo, but the book description intrigued me and though I haven't read any of the previous books in the series I dived in. I enjoyed the story and the flip of domination that occurred. Ross and stormy were fascinating characters and I love how protective he was of Ross.😍
"He stopped close enough to me that his leg touched mine and cocked a hip. “There was too much yelling. That was plenty of time for you. Shoo. Now.” He flicked his fingers at Vane. “As you can see, he has better things to do with his time.”
It made me laugh at some of the snarky witty remarks that stormy made especially when one of Ross friends arrived and he felt that they were being horrible to Ross. His care and protectiveness was brilliant to see and that he strived to make Ross see his worth. Stormy was definitely a priceless character and one I enjoyed seeing getting a happy ever after. This story was high heat with Ross exploring some of his kinks, the only thing that I wasn't keen on was when Ross kept referring to stormy as mister. It just jarred me out of the book every time he said it and to me it just didn't sound right. But this was a minor thing I didn't like but overall it was a good read, I liked their relationship progress, the mixture of other characters and that the story flowed well and kept my attention. This book has made me want to read the previous books in the series and find out the other characters stories so all in all a good read.
I received this book by the author and this is my honest opinion
I don't think I've read anything from this duo, but the book description intrigued me and though I haven't read any of the previous books in the series I dived in. I enjoyed the story and the flip of domination that occurred. Ross and stormy were fascinating characters and I love how protective he was of Ross.😍
"He stopped close enough to me that his leg touched mine and cocked a hip. “There was too much yelling. That was plenty of time for you. Shoo. Now.” He flicked his fingers at Vane. “As you can see, he has better things to do with his time.”
It made me laugh at some of the snarky witty remarks that stormy made especially when one of Ross friends arrived and he felt that they were being horrible to Ross. His care and protectiveness was brilliant to see and that he strived to make Ross see his worth. Stormy was definitely a priceless character and one I enjoyed seeing getting a happy ever after. This story was high heat with Ross exploring some of his kinks, the only thing that I wasn't keen on was when Ross kept referring to stormy as mister. It just jarred me out of the book every time he said it and to me it just didn't sound right. But this was a minor thing I didn't like but overall it was a good read, I liked their relationship progress, the mixture of other characters and that the story flowed well and kept my attention. This book has made me want to read the previous books in the series and find out the other characters stories so all in all a good read.
I received this book by the author and this is my honest opinion
April 25, 2021
It was a pleasure to read this entertaining MM romance which has a subtle “second-chance” undertone. There are character crossovers & this book can be read as a standalone but I would suggest reading this series in order to get the maximum enjoyment of the underlining storyline. I will admit that the plot has good world-building & some intriguing situations and/or events that is splendidly well-described but personally I feel the ending was a little abrupt. The two main characters are perfectly flawed individuals with undeniable chemistry between them but one of them has realistic doubts & reservations about his future. There are secondary characters that play significant roles & offered good support throughout the storyline.
It is about: a snarky male courtesan/high-class prostitute (Lane Alexander nee Kennedy aka Stormy) is determined to avoid a personal relationship but discovers that he is actually in one when he gains his lover (a disgraced ex-mayor, Ross Midberry) as his houseboy but the situation changes when Lane’s heart becomes involved & he is quite prepared to defend & care for Ross at all costs.
There is: political scandals, reporters, family issues, drama, some suspense, intrigue, memories, some anguish, distrust, discrimination, harassment, guilt, regrets, indecision, temptation, discipline, domination/submission, confrontations, insecurities, protectiveness, manipulations, determination, happiness, contentment, love, steamy scenes & a satisfying conclusion. I enjoyed reading this MM romance & would recommend it to people who enjoy reading this genre.
It is about: a snarky male courtesan/high-class prostitute (Lane Alexander nee Kennedy aka Stormy) is determined to avoid a personal relationship but discovers that he is actually in one when he gains his lover (a disgraced ex-mayor, Ross Midberry) as his houseboy but the situation changes when Lane’s heart becomes involved & he is quite prepared to defend & care for Ross at all costs.
There is: political scandals, reporters, family issues, drama, some suspense, intrigue, memories, some anguish, distrust, discrimination, harassment, guilt, regrets, indecision, temptation, discipline, domination/submission, confrontations, insecurities, protectiveness, manipulations, determination, happiness, contentment, love, steamy scenes & a satisfying conclusion. I enjoyed reading this MM romance & would recommend it to people who enjoy reading this genre.
April 30, 2021
**ARC Review** Each of the City Hall Books brought some interesting kinks for our entertainment. Ross' kink... well in the beginning I could have sworn it was some kind of mental illness...but it was something different and Lane/Stormy picked up on it and rolled with it. He got on board very well...took it and ran...LOL. I must say I enjoy reading the author duo books and I wasn't too disappointed with this one. I had some dislikes/likes about Ross in previous books and getting to know him in this one help me understand him. Stormy is one of the reason's why I love reading this type of genre books...fierce, sassy, confident in their sexuality with a caring/sweet heart. He really is there for Ross when everybody else kicked him to the curb. Even though Ross had an awful experience...he gets a second chance with Stormy by his side. Nice!
April 26, 2021
This is truly one intense and sexy story that has left me confused as to if I loved it or just liked it. At the start it was really interesting and intense, but, at around 55/56% onwards it went a little wonky for me. I understand dominance in a couple, I've read a few of those stories, but I disliked what Stormy/Lane was doing, completely irked me, to me it went a bit beyond dominance and was more like humiliation, and I was so very frustrated that an older, confident businessman like Ross was allowing and accepting it, it was clear he was uncomfortable with it at first but seemed to resign himself. But, to be sure, It IS an amazing story with an intense plot, I just struggled with some of the content.
April 16, 2021
I'm always excited to read another book in the New Gothenburg world, and overall I did enjoy this one. This is the third in the City Hall series. I recommend you read book 1 and 2 first. This one is about Ross, the disgraced ex-mayor, and the Courtesan, Stormy, who he has been throwing all his money at and gets caught with.
I found Stormy interesting--I like how he both fits and defies stereotypes, and I found his background and relationship with his parents quite entertaining. I was also happy to get a glimpse into the inner workings of the Courtesan. Ever since I started the Kings series, there's a professional there involved with a King who I keep hoping will get a book, but sadly I'm starting to think that won't happen. Fortunately, I was a fan of Stormy AKA Lane so no complaints there. I think domestic discipline can be super hot, so the kink was good. However, my major problem with the book was Ross. I could never connect with him. I couldn't understand what Stormy saw in the guy. I was hoping that I could get a better idea of what motivated Ross, but he never seemed all that repentant or to fully understand how his actions impacted those around him. Maybe if there was a deeper exploration of Ross's issues--like I so enjoyed and found convincing in the previous novel's redemption arc--that would be different. But that isn't fully tackled here. Apparently, Stormy's domestic discipline has magically "cured" Ross, despite the fact that, in my opinion, Ross's issues are much more deep-seated than that. Oh well. I left the novel still disappointed in Ross, and feeling a million times more sympathetic to the other people in his life (like poor Mark!), and thinking that Ross didn't deserve Stormy. It felt as though Ross always had everything handed to him, and that didn't change.
I still recommend this one to fans of the City Hall series, as long as you are OK with Ross being the sub in that relationship (which worked for me because Stormy turned out to be such a force of character). I really want to see Mark get a HEA, so I hope we get that next.
**I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review**
I found Stormy interesting--I like how he both fits and defies stereotypes, and I found his background and relationship with his parents quite entertaining. I was also happy to get a glimpse into the inner workings of the Courtesan. Ever since I started the Kings series, there's a professional there involved with a King who I keep hoping will get a book, but sadly I'm starting to think that won't happen. Fortunately, I was a fan of Stormy AKA Lane so no complaints there. I think domestic discipline can be super hot, so the kink was good. However, my major problem with the book was Ross. I could never connect with him. I couldn't understand what Stormy saw in the guy. I was hoping that I could get a better idea of what motivated Ross, but he never seemed all that repentant or to fully understand how his actions impacted those around him. Maybe if there was a deeper exploration of Ross's issues--like I so enjoyed and found convincing in the previous novel's redemption arc--that would be different. But that isn't fully tackled here. Apparently, Stormy's domestic discipline has magically "cured" Ross, despite the fact that, in my opinion, Ross's issues are much more deep-seated than that. Oh well. I left the novel still disappointed in Ross, and feeling a million times more sympathetic to the other people in his life (like poor Mark!), and thinking that Ross didn't deserve Stormy. It felt as though Ross always had everything handed to him, and that didn't change.
I still recommend this one to fans of the City Hall series, as long as you are OK with Ross being the sub in that relationship (which worked for me because Stormy turned out to be such a force of character). I really want to see Mark get a HEA, so I hope we get that next.
**I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review**
April 27, 2021
I wanted to enjoy this so much more.
I had mixed feelings about reading this book because I didn’t like Ross in the previous books, but I’m all about a good redemption story. And I do think this story delivered on that front. Ross is undeniably a selfish jerk, but he acknowledges that fact fairly quickly and is lucky to have Lane on his side to help him become a better person. Their relationship is believable from the start and the k!nk dynamic made total sense. I think it also made Ross more relatable and it’s definitely what made me feel some sympathy for his situation.
Unfortunately, what ultimately made me not love this book was the pacing. This book could have been much shorter and it would have been such a great addition to the series. At about 60% into the story, the pacing nearly comes to a standstill and it was torture dragging myself through the last 40%. It picks up a little, but it wasn’t an interesting enough plot point to forgive the overall poor pacing. I also think there could have been less steamy times - we already know they’re compatible there - and more time spent exploring their non-s3xual relationship.
There was also something that really irked me - the fact that Lane talks to Eli about his and Ross’ k!nk relationship without Ross’ consent. Sure Eli is also k!nky, but that’s still something incredibly private and not necessarily something Ross would want to share with anybody or have anybody but Ross himself choose to share.
Heads up that there is a power imbalance in this story, but that’s kind of a running theme in this series and I thought it was handled well in this book.
I really love this series, so I absolutely recommend reading the first two books and at least giving this third book a try. Just know that these books have some dubious consent elements and may cross a line here and there, but it’s all within a context and not for a shock value or to push the plot. This series is set within a universe that the authors have created, so I definitely plan on reading their other books.
I had mixed feelings about reading this book because I didn’t like Ross in the previous books, but I’m all about a good redemption story. And I do think this story delivered on that front. Ross is undeniably a selfish jerk, but he acknowledges that fact fairly quickly and is lucky to have Lane on his side to help him become a better person. Their relationship is believable from the start and the k!nk dynamic made total sense. I think it also made Ross more relatable and it’s definitely what made me feel some sympathy for his situation.
Unfortunately, what ultimately made me not love this book was the pacing. This book could have been much shorter and it would have been such a great addition to the series. At about 60% into the story, the pacing nearly comes to a standstill and it was torture dragging myself through the last 40%. It picks up a little, but it wasn’t an interesting enough plot point to forgive the overall poor pacing. I also think there could have been less steamy times - we already know they’re compatible there - and more time spent exploring their non-s3xual relationship.
There was also something that really irked me - the fact that Lane talks to Eli about his and Ross’ k!nk relationship without Ross’ consent. Sure Eli is also k!nky, but that’s still something incredibly private and not necessarily something Ross would want to share with anybody or have anybody but Ross himself choose to share.
Heads up that there is a power imbalance in this story, but that’s kind of a running theme in this series and I thought it was handled well in this book.
I really love this series, so I absolutely recommend reading the first two books and at least giving this third book a try. Just know that these books have some dubious consent elements and may cross a line here and there, but it’s all within a context and not for a shock value or to push the plot. This series is set within a universe that the authors have created, so I definitely plan on reading their other books.
May 31, 2021
Lovely romance of the little bit different kind! Not really "romantic" in it's sugary sense but it still warmed my heart as it just touched all my buttons just the right way.
Lane/Stormy's and Ross' lovestory takes you to a journey through newly found feelings, self-discoveries and new personal identifications. As you get most of the rough details out of the blurb, like being (ex-) professional worker and (ex-) Mayor, I do not want to repeat here too much.
I loved it how the author builds a replicable world around the characters. The reader will find a lot of quite delicate, deeper details in WHY they do things and HOW they develop their symbiotic relationship towards each other.
If Lane and Ross were two real persons and maybe even my friends or aquaintances, my heart would sincerely glow for them and I would be honestly proud of how they stick to their ideals, convictions ang growing love, spiked with plenty of steaming hot scenes.
While reading the book, I sometimes had the impression as if the style of writing changed from delightfully filthy and perky (which I really enjoyed) towards a rather smoother, milder one until the end. Same as described situations, where you think: "yeah, this can really be happening like this" towards the last chapter and epilogue, where suddenly everything gets solved so quickly and easily. That was a bit abrupt for me. Anyhow, this was my personal impression but did not have a major impact on how I want to rate the book, as it was for me an appetizing bite of love, affection and spicy romance.
I received this book for free but leave a review freely and voluntarily because I really enjoyed reading it.
Lane/Stormy's and Ross' lovestory takes you to a journey through newly found feelings, self-discoveries and new personal identifications. As you get most of the rough details out of the blurb, like being (ex-) professional worker and (ex-) Mayor, I do not want to repeat here too much.
I loved it how the author builds a replicable world around the characters. The reader will find a lot of quite delicate, deeper details in WHY they do things and HOW they develop their symbiotic relationship towards each other.
If Lane and Ross were two real persons and maybe even my friends or aquaintances, my heart would sincerely glow for them and I would be honestly proud of how they stick to their ideals, convictions ang growing love, spiked with plenty of steaming hot scenes.
While reading the book, I sometimes had the impression as if the style of writing changed from delightfully filthy and perky (which I really enjoyed) towards a rather smoother, milder one until the end. Same as described situations, where you think: "yeah, this can really be happening like this" towards the last chapter and epilogue, where suddenly everything gets solved so quickly and easily. That was a bit abrupt for me. Anyhow, this was my personal impression but did not have a major impact on how I want to rate the book, as it was for me an appetizing bite of love, affection and spicy romance.
I received this book for free but leave a review freely and voluntarily because I really enjoyed reading it.
April 28, 2021
Lane (Stormy) and Ross’s story did not turn out the way I expected it to from the first pages, and for the most part I appreciated the blend of surprise, steam, and occasional sweetness that actually was their relationship. That said, while I firmly believe in these authors’ ability to make just about anything sexy, it turns out that some parts of the humiliation side of their D/s relationship-- the “Pookie” nickname etc, was a bridge too far for me-- more mean spirited humiliating than fun humiliating, which is admittedly a hard line to walk. For the most part, this book is an engrossing read, and scorching hot, but you’ve got to be willing to suspend plausibility and not look too hard at how, exactly, Lane can immediately switch from free spirit into controlling yet sorta clueless Dom who only realizes a month into the relationship he himself has engineered that it’s a full time domestic discipline relationship, and maybe he kinda/sorta should talk that over with his partner. On the other hand, Ross’s transition from mayor in charge of all the things to domestic submissive, or househusband, (I’m not using any of the other terms Lane does for Ross’s new role because they fall into the “unfun humiliation” category for me) did feel very plausible: Ross is happiest when he has direction and approval, and it was nice to see him get that. I liked that Lane does, indeed, care about Ross, and his protectiveness and loyalty provided some much needed sweetness to their relationship.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 26, 2021
Firstly I was pleased to discover this book was almost entirely error free which does not happen very often these days.
Mayor Ross Midberry did not invoke much sympathy with me, he came across as totally inept and self absorbed; it is the first time I have thought that a character in a book (who was not the baddie) deserved what happened to him. He compounded this by whining and complaining - his pity party was exhausting. Who’d have thought a prostitute would be his salvation, and the salvation of this story! I liked Stormy, he was sassy, loyal, honest and straightforward and to hell with anyone else’s opinions. His supportive fathers were a nice change from the family disowning you trope.
The seemingly never ending sex, either thinking about it or doing it, was a bit excessive and quite often inappropriate in the situations Ross found himself in, I do not think it should be used to carry an entire book but should enhance relationships, having said that I didn’t skip any parts of the book.
Would have liked a bit more about how life panned out for Ross in his relationships with his father and Mark and also his redemption
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mayor Ross Midberry did not invoke much sympathy with me, he came across as totally inept and self absorbed; it is the first time I have thought that a character in a book (who was not the baddie) deserved what happened to him. He compounded this by whining and complaining - his pity party was exhausting. Who’d have thought a prostitute would be his salvation, and the salvation of this story! I liked Stormy, he was sassy, loyal, honest and straightforward and to hell with anyone else’s opinions. His supportive fathers were a nice change from the family disowning you trope.
The seemingly never ending sex, either thinking about it or doing it, was a bit excessive and quite often inappropriate in the situations Ross found himself in, I do not think it should be used to carry an entire book but should enhance relationships, having said that I didn’t skip any parts of the book.
Would have liked a bit more about how life panned out for Ross in his relationships with his father and Mark and also his redemption
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 30, 2021
Cuffed was amazing! It’s not a standalone, and I blasted through the first two books in the series before getting started on Cuffed. And can I just say, wow? In the city of New Gothenburg, we’ve seen Ross Midberry as the mayor, and his gradual fall. Over the course of the series, he becomes less and less interested in his position, and is more prone to his activities with boys from the Courtesan. One of whom, Stormy, AKA Lane Kennedy, he’s eventually caught with. In public. With his pants down. Oops.
After hitting rock bottom, Lane is the only one willing to step up for Ross. And it became their story of what happens after the fall. And even though this was their book, it really was Ross’ story. How Lane helps him go from absolute rock bottom to a mature human capable of doing his own laundry was amazing.
This series has introduced me to a few new kinks, and the domestic discipline we see here was fascinating. Ross learning about himself with Lane as his safety net was beautiful to see, and having Lane give Ross a push when needed was weirdly funny.
Cuffed was great, and based of that epilogue, I’m excited to read the next book. Because surely there has to be one, right?
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
After hitting rock bottom, Lane is the only one willing to step up for Ross. And it became their story of what happens after the fall. And even though this was their book, it really was Ross’ story. How Lane helps him go from absolute rock bottom to a mature human capable of doing his own laundry was amazing.
This series has introduced me to a few new kinks, and the domestic discipline we see here was fascinating. Ross learning about himself with Lane as his safety net was beautiful to see, and having Lane give Ross a push when needed was weirdly funny.
Cuffed was great, and based of that epilogue, I’m excited to read the next book. Because surely there has to be one, right?
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
August 21, 2023
I've been working my way through the New Gothenburg Universe reading list and this is the first book that has left me questioning my choices and not in a "oooh that's a kink I didn't know I had" but in a "That makes me so mad".
The implied sex trafficking ruined any enjoyment for me in 3 ways.
1. The slight in question is so minor that the reaction seems so completely out of proportion and out of character for Madam Winters.
2. The scene has made me hate all of Mark's friends and colleagues that were present and let it happen. I have a horrifying feeling that Mark will make peace with these people in the next book.
3. My take away is that Mark is meant to learn how difficult the industry is and learn some humility. Both things could have been learned by making him work for Madam Winter minus the sex trafficking. The Author could have used this opportunity to high light issues within the industry and showed a more human/sympathetic side to those character along with making suggestion that in a perfect world could make this industry safer (if author was inclined to make a point) but instead they went with one that would realistically deepen Mark's anger and resentment.
The implied sex trafficking ruined any enjoyment for me in 3 ways.
1. The slight in question is so minor that the reaction seems so completely out of proportion and out of character for Madam Winters.
2. The scene has made me hate all of Mark's friends and colleagues that were present and let it happen. I have a horrifying feeling that Mark will make peace with these people in the next book.
3. My take away is that Mark is meant to learn how difficult the industry is and learn some humility. Both things could have been learned by making him work for Madam Winter minus the sex trafficking. The Author could have used this opportunity to high light issues within the industry and showed a more human/sympathetic side to those character along with making suggestion that in a perfect world could make this industry safer (if author was inclined to make a point) but instead they went with one that would realistically deepen Mark's anger and resentment.
May 2, 2021
Wow what a story
Firstly I’ve got be very honest with you and say that I did not like Mayor Ross Milberry in previous books. I just didn’t like his attitude and the way he spoke to people but dear oh dear, this book just blows everything out of water you see a totally, totally different side of Ross.
And that is all thanks to stormy whom you would call an extraordinary character. Stormy has got such a positive outlook he is sassy don’t get me wrong He is so ballsy but what he does in this book is just brilliant. I must admit I didn’t think he would get Ross to be the person he turned into.
It was brilliant to see some of the old characters from previous books come back to be around Ross and offer support. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
But I can tell you right now the ending of this book is such a tease I cannot wait for the next book it is going to be out of this world and if I’m right about the ice prince I think we are in for an exciting ride. Madam Winters you are spectacular
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Firstly I’ve got be very honest with you and say that I did not like Mayor Ross Milberry in previous books. I just didn’t like his attitude and the way he spoke to people but dear oh dear, this book just blows everything out of water you see a totally, totally different side of Ross.
And that is all thanks to stormy whom you would call an extraordinary character. Stormy has got such a positive outlook he is sassy don’t get me wrong He is so ballsy but what he does in this book is just brilliant. I must admit I didn’t think he would get Ross to be the person he turned into.
It was brilliant to see some of the old characters from previous books come back to be around Ross and offer support. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
But I can tell you right now the ending of this book is such a tease I cannot wait for the next book it is going to be out of this world and if I’m right about the ice prince I think we are in for an exciting ride. Madam Winters you are spectacular
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2021
Ross is a character that I've never particularly liked and have only been mildly been curious about.I like Domestic Disciple books and he needs a keeper but this missed the mark for me.It feels like Ross goes from high powered arrogant mayor to an a happy kept man without much examination as to why it happens.He doesn't quite work for me.
I like Lane/Stormy and he is force to be reckoned with but it feels like he never completely drops his persona. He comes across as more bossy than authoritative though he starts to settle into his role.
This is a good book.Those reading it as a stand alone will have no issue following things.Those reading it after the others may or may not enjoy it.The writing is fantastic as usual it just fell flat for me.
If you like DD books, a powerful man is a behind the scenes submissive or a self assured ex-courtesan then this might be for you.
i received a copy through Gay Romance Reviews
I like Lane/Stormy and he is force to be reckoned with but it feels like he never completely drops his persona. He comes across as more bossy than authoritative though he starts to settle into his role.
This is a good book.Those reading it as a stand alone will have no issue following things.Those reading it after the others may or may not enjoy it.The writing is fantastic as usual it just fell flat for me.
If you like DD books, a powerful man is a behind the scenes submissive or a self assured ex-courtesan then this might be for you.
i received a copy through Gay Romance Reviews
April 20, 2021
This is another great book in this world
As one of the characters in this book says this book is as hot as a sunny morning in Death Valley. The heat is definitely there right from the moment we catch Stormy and Mayor Ross Midberry in a moment of passion that alters things between them forever. The way things change for these two men is terrifically well written by these two authors as the changes are so huge that this book could easily have tipped over into caricature. Instead we find the two of them on a journey of discovering that what they really want in life is not what they had thought and that the thing that they had been searching for was right under their noses, but not in the way that they had thought. I enjoyed this book so much as I have all the books about New Gothenburg and if you like your mm romance with a bit of kink then I recommend you read them. You can read this book as a stand-alone but it’s much more fun if you read the previous books first.
As one of the characters in this book says this book is as hot as a sunny morning in Death Valley. The heat is definitely there right from the moment we catch Stormy and Mayor Ross Midberry in a moment of passion that alters things between them forever. The way things change for these two men is terrifically well written by these two authors as the changes are so huge that this book could easily have tipped over into caricature. Instead we find the two of them on a journey of discovering that what they really want in life is not what they had thought and that the thing that they had been searching for was right under their noses, but not in the way that they had thought. I enjoyed this book so much as I have all the books about New Gothenburg and if you like your mm romance with a bit of kink then I recommend you read them. You can read this book as a stand-alone but it’s much more fun if you read the previous books first.
April 25, 2021
3.5 stars A great start to the book but Ross gets caught with Stormy in a stairwell of city hall. I got a sense Stormy ain't who he says he is, and a mystery begins.. This was a okay story but it didnt tell me who all the characters rolls where. Ross's life goes to hell but his freinds are also caught up in it, Ross wasn't their favourite person. Includes both pov's with a very mixed up and muddled Ross. Hot and sexy scenes, shady deals and lot more was included with a roll reversal on being the dominant.
I loved the first two books in this series but this one I wasnt feeling the storyline.
Major Ross had his personal call boy, Stormy when ever he wanted but he stuffs up on this occasion.
Stormy aka Lane was a guy but he could get himself out of situations with his lawyer team. Yah who was Lane?
I loved the first two books in this series but this one I wasnt feeling the storyline.
Major Ross had his personal call boy, Stormy when ever he wanted but he stuffs up on this occasion.
Stormy aka Lane was a guy but he could get himself out of situations with his lawyer team. Yah who was Lane?
April 30, 2021
This is the 3rd book in the “City Hall” series.
Ross Midberry is now the Ex-Mayor of New Gothenburg since he got caught in a compromising position at City Hall with a professional from the Cortesan named Stormy/ Lane Kennedy. After a short stay in prison, a completely broke with no place to go Ross feels like he is not good enough. Lane takes charge and takes on a Dom role with Ross. They start up a Domestic Discipline play/ kink that seems to help give Ross direction he needs and enjoys praise for a job well done. This wasn’t as good as the first 2 books in the series but, it’s still an enjoyable and fun read. I am very much looking forward to more stories in this series from these 2 Authors.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ross Midberry is now the Ex-Mayor of New Gothenburg since he got caught in a compromising position at City Hall with a professional from the Cortesan named Stormy/ Lane Kennedy. After a short stay in prison, a completely broke with no place to go Ross feels like he is not good enough. Lane takes charge and takes on a Dom role with Ross. They start up a Domestic Discipline play/ kink that seems to help give Ross direction he needs and enjoys praise for a job well done. This wasn’t as good as the first 2 books in the series but, it’s still an enjoyable and fun read. I am very much looking forward to more stories in this series from these 2 Authors.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2021
This book is part of the New Gothenburg World and is book 3 of this particular series spin off. I imagine it can be read as a stand-alone but you’d be mad not to read them all.
Whenever a book from this series is released it goes straight to the top of my TBR pile.
I love the writing style and I’m always pulled straight into the story. There’s always a lot of steamy heat in these books but there’s a story there too, also lots of humour and at one point I nearly snorted my drink out at one particular amusing moment. Believe me when I say that it is rare for me to have this kind of reaction to a book. It’s these moments that have this author duo on my must reads list.
Whenever a book from this series is released it goes straight to the top of my TBR pile.
I love the writing style and I’m always pulled straight into the story. There’s always a lot of steamy heat in these books but there’s a story there too, also lots of humour and at one point I nearly snorted my drink out at one particular amusing moment. Believe me when I say that it is rare for me to have this kind of reaction to a book. It’s these moments that have this author duo on my must reads list.
dnf
April 13, 2021I loved the first book in this series & recommend it often. It was my first from these authors. The second book was just okay & unfortunately at 42% in I’m moving on from this one.
This book started out great & I was excited to get to know both MCs & read their story. But at this point there is little chemistry and the majority of the read is disappointingly about side characters from other books in series I didn’t read and unimportant details. I’m not attached to anyone by 42% and I’m skimming to get to the next sex scene. With a TBR list awaiting I’m putting this down as a DNF/no rating.
I’m unsure if it’s me or the book so I’ll try again at a later date.
This book started out great & I was excited to get to know both MCs & read their story. But at this point there is little chemistry and the majority of the read is disappointingly about side characters from other books in series I didn’t read and unimportant details. I’m not attached to anyone by 42% and I’m skimming to get to the next sex scene. With a TBR list awaiting I’m putting this down as a DNF/no rating.
I’m unsure if it’s me or the book so I’ll try again at a later date.
April 28, 2021
Mayor to Houseboy
Ross got a second chance coming out of his disgraceful fall as a mayor and reinvented himself to be a houseboy. This one in the series is very different from the first two in that the two MCs formed their bond in a very unconventional way yet it seemed to fit quite well between them. The transformation is quite struggle for Ross and Lane is there to lead and guide. They are quite sweet together and hot and steamy and pull and push in sync. Quite a ride with them and I enjoyed it. Now look forward to reading Mark story. This book also provided glimpses of other chapters we are familiar with in other books of expanded NG world which are worth reading.
Ross got a second chance coming out of his disgraceful fall as a mayor and reinvented himself to be a houseboy. This one in the series is very different from the first two in that the two MCs formed their bond in a very unconventional way yet it seemed to fit quite well between them. The transformation is quite struggle for Ross and Lane is there to lead and guide. They are quite sweet together and hot and steamy and pull and push in sync. Quite a ride with them and I enjoyed it. Now look forward to reading Mark story. This book also provided glimpses of other chapters we are familiar with in other books of expanded NG world which are worth reading.
April 29, 2021
The Story We’ve Been Waiting For
At the end of ‘Denial’ Mayor Ross Midberry is caught in a comprising position in public and arrested. In Cuffed, we get his story, sort of a redemption arc (except he doesn’t really want to be redeemed). The swapped dynamic between himself and Lane is sizzling, all the hotter for how they first came together. I love home the novels in the New Gothenburg world don’t have cookie cutter characters, they have unique kinks, diverse background and grey morals that make their stories so much richer. I always keep my eye out for more of the dynamic writing duo of Ki Brightly and M D Gregory.
At the end of ‘Denial’ Mayor Ross Midberry is caught in a comprising position in public and arrested. In Cuffed, we get his story, sort of a redemption arc (except he doesn’t really want to be redeemed). The swapped dynamic between himself and Lane is sizzling, all the hotter for how they first came together. I love home the novels in the New Gothenburg world don’t have cookie cutter characters, they have unique kinks, diverse background and grey morals that make their stories so much richer. I always keep my eye out for more of the dynamic writing duo of Ki Brightly and M D Gregory.
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