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Naughty in Pendleton #2
Embracing His Shame
A bad boy mechanic and a kinky accountant: can an indecent proposal lead to love?
Though Forrest Patton looks like a tweedy, uptight accountant, he’s anything but. Underneath the fussy bow ties and love of color-coded spreadsheets lies a man searching for someone to peel back the layers and fulfill his shameful fantasies. Eavesdropping at the diner in town leads him to wonder if the local mechanic might just be the man for the job.
Jarod Keener likes it rough, and he makes no secret of that. But he never expects to be approached with an offer to trade accounting advice for some dirty, risky fun. Always up for a challenge, Jarod dives in headfirst but Forrest doesn’t trust anyone to give him the humiliation he needs once feelings start to get in the way.
When a secret about Jarod’s family upends everything, Forrest will have to decide if he’s willing to give Jarod a chance to show him that he can have love and the kink he longs for.
Embracing His Shame includes: mild humiliation play, small-town gossip, and two men falling in love despite their best efforts.
Though Forrest Patton looks like a tweedy, uptight accountant, he’s anything but. Underneath the fussy bow ties and love of color-coded spreadsheets lies a man searching for someone to peel back the layers and fulfill his shameful fantasies. Eavesdropping at the diner in town leads him to wonder if the local mechanic might just be the man for the job.
Jarod Keener likes it rough, and he makes no secret of that. But he never expects to be approached with an offer to trade accounting advice for some dirty, risky fun. Always up for a challenge, Jarod dives in headfirst but Forrest doesn’t trust anyone to give him the humiliation he needs once feelings start to get in the way.
When a secret about Jarod’s family upends everything, Forrest will have to decide if he’s willing to give Jarod a chance to show him that he can have love and the kink he longs for.
Embracing His Shame includes: mild humiliation play, small-town gossip, and two men falling in love despite their best efforts.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2021
156 people are currently reading
380 people want to read
About the author
Brigham Vaughn
82 books772 followersBrigham Vaughn is on the adventure of a lifetime as a full-time writer. She devours books at an alarming rate and hasn’t let her short arms and long torso stop her from doing yoga. She makes a killer key lime pie, hates green peppers, and loves wine tasting tours. A collector of vintage Nancy Drew books and green glassware, she enjoys poking around in antique shops and refinishing thrift store furniture. An avid photographer, she dreams of traveling the world and she can’t wait to discover everything else life has to offer her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
March 2, 2023
3 “Property of Jarod Keener” stars
”Because you’re mine. […] Because this hole belongs to me. You belong to me. You’re mine, boy. Every damn inch of you from that big brain to every one of your holes. No one else touches what’s mine. […] You’re my property now.”
I enjoyed this book, it was really sweet and the sex scenes were really damn good, my problem was that I was very close to throwing my kindle on the floor due to how much I was annoyed by one of the main character. And I never felt like he redeemed himself enough for me.
Brief summary
Forest is 38 years old and an accountat, he has spent years trying to find a guy that can give him the level of kink he wants but he wasn’t able to, he wants someone who will humiliate him and degrade him. Jarod is 33 years old and he’s a mechanic, he owns the garage in town. One day, Forest is at a restaurant and he hears Jarod talking to his friend about how he hasn’t beaten someone up (during sex) and how he needs an acountant so Forest volunteers himself for both positions. They end up having lots of humiliating and kinky sex and falling in love.
Before I get to my review, I would just like to talk about something important to me, that really bothered me in the book. At one point, while we were in Forest POV, Forest wants to safeword but he decides not to because he thinks that would ruin the day, that really rubbed me the wrong way. Safewords do not ruin the day, they’re there to make you feel safe and doms want you to use it, they won’t think the day is ruined, at all. I know this is a novel but I really didn’t like that this was included. I like my BDSM novels to portray safe BDSM pratices and thats just not it.
First, I loved Jarod, so much. He was so commending and bossy, it was just so hot. And he was such a good dom. He always took take of Forest and made sure that Forest felt good. I also loved how he wasn’t a perfect dom, I really don’t like when a dom is perfect. I loved how Jarod had flaws and issues and made mistakes sometimes. He was such a good character. Lets be honest, i’m not sure if my love for him is because of how dominant and tender he was or that he has a lot of tattoos, it’s probably the tattoos, to be honest.
Second, we will get to the sex scenes soon but I just want to talk about the humiliation on its own first. Damn was it good. There is so much humiliation in this and I loved all of it. I loved how the humiliation went outside the bedroom and was done in public too, damn that was hot. I loved how the humiliation was described when it came to forest feelings, I adored how he felt very ashamed but it turned him on at the same time, the way it was described was perfect.
Third, damn was there some quality sex scenes in this book. There was so much dirty talk, mostly filled of humiliating things said to Forest and I loved it so much. I loved how jarod used forest for his pleasure. I did really enjoy the balance between sweetness and hot sex. And the sex scenes we did get were scorching and I loved them, very much. I loved the kind of dom Jarod was, I loved how he wanted to control forest and make him do what he wants and he ditched out so much fantastic humiliation. But, there was lots and lots of telling and not a lot of showing, mostly when it comes to the sex scenes. And i’m sure that it’s only a me problem because I always want more sex, I prefer sex scenes to story on most days. I was kind of sad that some sex scenes were only told to us and we never got to see them happen for example that happened for a fisting scene and for a scene where Jarod made Forest cum in a cup and then made him drink his cum while Jarod watched. I just really wanted to see those scenes, but i’m sure it won’t bother most people, I just always want all the sex scenes possible.
Special mention to how forest calls Jarod boss, damn did I love that.
Fourth, my biggest problem with this book was Forest, he was really hot and cold. Hot and cold characters are a mixed bag for me, sometimes I like them and sometimes I don’t. What I like about them is when they at least try to be better and to stop runing away and shuting down their partner. And I love when they communicate the problems with their partner so that their partner knowns it wasn’t something they did but just how they feel because of previous experiences. But Forest did neither, he never communicated how he was feeling with Jarod and he was always shutting down and running away from his feelings. Forest just really annoyed me, he’s 38 years old and never wanted to talk about what he wants out of sex and he avoided any feelings like the plague. I just wanted him to grow up. He didn’t act like he was 38 at all, I had to constantly remind myself that he wasn’t 20 years old.
Fifth, I couldn’t really feel the connection between the characters because Forest kept pushing Jarod away and he didn’t want feelings or sweet stuff or anything close to getting close to the other. Forest was so detached, he never wanted to get close to Jarod and any time Jarod did something sweet, he ran away. It was perfect for his character but I couldn’t feel them building a connection since Forest wouldn’t let it happen. I got so annoyed at Forest and his fear of getting close to Jarod. Jarod just wanted to do something nice for him and he kept pushing him away. So I never felt like the characters belonged together because of it. I could easily see why they fit together for kink, but I just couldn’t see how they fit together as people. For most of the book, it felt like they were dating the other cause they provided them with good sex and not because they liked the other’s personality.
Sixth, Jarod had low self esteem and he thought he could never be enough for Forest, that he wasn’t worth a man like him. And I hated how Forest actions kept showing him that his thinking was right. Not only was Forest being an idiot, he also hurt Jarod in the process, by pushing Jarod away, he kept showing Jarod that he thought that Jarod wasn’t good enough for him. For a good part of the book, Forest had no care about Jarod, Jarod’s feelings and what Jarod wants and I just don’t think thats a good foundation to a relationship.
Seventh, I was so damn happy when Forest finally got his shit together and realized that he was the one that had been acting like an asshole the entire book. I really enjoyed that part. The last 20% of the book was lovely and I really wish the entire book was that way, I would have loved it so much if it was. I’m not the biggest fan of when all the problems in the book and in the characters lives are wrapped into a nice little bow but it was done really well here and it was so damn satisfying.
I did enjoy reading this book, even if I would have prefered Forest to have a personality transplant. The sex scenes were really good and worth a solid 3 stars on their own.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
”Because you’re mine. […] Because this hole belongs to me. You belong to me. You’re mine, boy. Every damn inch of you from that big brain to every one of your holes. No one else touches what’s mine. […] You’re my property now.”
I enjoyed this book, it was really sweet and the sex scenes were really damn good, my problem was that I was very close to throwing my kindle on the floor due to how much I was annoyed by one of the main character. And I never felt like he redeemed himself enough for me.
Brief summary
Forest is 38 years old and an accountat, he has spent years trying to find a guy that can give him the level of kink he wants but he wasn’t able to, he wants someone who will humiliate him and degrade him. Jarod is 33 years old and he’s a mechanic, he owns the garage in town. One day, Forest is at a restaurant and he hears Jarod talking to his friend about how he hasn’t beaten someone up (during sex) and how he needs an acountant so Forest volunteers himself for both positions. They end up having lots of humiliating and kinky sex and falling in love.
Before I get to my review, I would just like to talk about something important to me, that really bothered me in the book. At one point, while we were in Forest POV, Forest wants to safeword but he decides not to because he thinks that would ruin the day, that really rubbed me the wrong way. Safewords do not ruin the day, they’re there to make you feel safe and doms want you to use it, they won’t think the day is ruined, at all. I know this is a novel but I really didn’t like that this was included. I like my BDSM novels to portray safe BDSM pratices and thats just not it.
First, I loved Jarod, so much. He was so commending and bossy, it was just so hot. And he was such a good dom. He always took take of Forest and made sure that Forest felt good. I also loved how he wasn’t a perfect dom, I really don’t like when a dom is perfect. I loved how Jarod had flaws and issues and made mistakes sometimes. He was such a good character. Lets be honest, i’m not sure if my love for him is because of how dominant and tender he was or that he has a lot of tattoos, it’s probably the tattoos, to be honest.
Second, we will get to the sex scenes soon but I just want to talk about the humiliation on its own first. Damn was it good. There is so much humiliation in this and I loved all of it. I loved how the humiliation went outside the bedroom and was done in public too, damn that was hot. I loved how the humiliation was described when it came to forest feelings, I adored how he felt very ashamed but it turned him on at the same time, the way it was described was perfect.
Third, damn was there some quality sex scenes in this book. There was so much dirty talk, mostly filled of humiliating things said to Forest and I loved it so much. I loved how jarod used forest for his pleasure. I did really enjoy the balance between sweetness and hot sex. And the sex scenes we did get were scorching and I loved them, very much. I loved the kind of dom Jarod was, I loved how he wanted to control forest and make him do what he wants and he ditched out so much fantastic humiliation. But, there was lots and lots of telling and not a lot of showing, mostly when it comes to the sex scenes. And i’m sure that it’s only a me problem because I always want more sex, I prefer sex scenes to story on most days. I was kind of sad that some sex scenes were only told to us and we never got to see them happen for example that happened for a fisting scene and for a scene where Jarod made Forest cum in a cup and then made him drink his cum while Jarod watched. I just really wanted to see those scenes, but i’m sure it won’t bother most people, I just always want all the sex scenes possible.
Special mention to how forest calls Jarod boss, damn did I love that.
Fourth, my biggest problem with this book was Forest, he was really hot and cold. Hot and cold characters are a mixed bag for me, sometimes I like them and sometimes I don’t. What I like about them is when they at least try to be better and to stop runing away and shuting down their partner. And I love when they communicate the problems with their partner so that their partner knowns it wasn’t something they did but just how they feel because of previous experiences. But Forest did neither, he never communicated how he was feeling with Jarod and he was always shutting down and running away from his feelings. Forest just really annoyed me, he’s 38 years old and never wanted to talk about what he wants out of sex and he avoided any feelings like the plague. I just wanted him to grow up. He didn’t act like he was 38 at all, I had to constantly remind myself that he wasn’t 20 years old.
Fifth, I couldn’t really feel the connection between the characters because Forest kept pushing Jarod away and he didn’t want feelings or sweet stuff or anything close to getting close to the other. Forest was so detached, he never wanted to get close to Jarod and any time Jarod did something sweet, he ran away. It was perfect for his character but I couldn’t feel them building a connection since Forest wouldn’t let it happen. I got so annoyed at Forest and his fear of getting close to Jarod. Jarod just wanted to do something nice for him and he kept pushing him away. So I never felt like the characters belonged together because of it. I could easily see why they fit together for kink, but I just couldn’t see how they fit together as people. For most of the book, it felt like they were dating the other cause they provided them with good sex and not because they liked the other’s personality.
Sixth, Jarod had low self esteem and he thought he could never be enough for Forest, that he wasn’t worth a man like him. And I hated how Forest actions kept showing him that his thinking was right. Not only was Forest being an idiot, he also hurt Jarod in the process, by pushing Jarod away, he kept showing Jarod that he thought that Jarod wasn’t good enough for him. For a good part of the book, Forest had no care about Jarod, Jarod’s feelings and what Jarod wants and I just don’t think thats a good foundation to a relationship.
Seventh, I was so damn happy when Forest finally got his shit together and realized that he was the one that had been acting like an asshole the entire book. I really enjoyed that part. The last 20% of the book was lovely and I really wish the entire book was that way, I would have loved it so much if it was. I’m not the biggest fan of when all the problems in the book and in the characters lives are wrapped into a nice little bow but it was done really well here and it was so damn satisfying.
I did enjoy reading this book, even if I would have prefered Forest to have a personality transplant. The sex scenes were really good and worth a solid 3 stars on their own.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
August 9, 2021
3.3
“needed more love”
stars
“Tell me what you want. What makes your motor rev?” “Humiliation,” Forrest said. His heart thumped as he said the words. “Degradation. The dirtier the better. I want you to use me.”
So what happens when a mild mannered, buttoned up, tweedy accountant wants to indulge his humiliation kink in a small town? He propositions a garage owner with an offer of accounting services in exchange for satisfying his kinkiest fantasies. Sounds like a fair exchange right?
Forrest is 40-years old, gay and a staid accountant—at least on the outside. He loves color coded spreadsheets, bow ties and old school vests, but his sexual tastes are decidely not grandpa-like. He's into humiliation in a major way and he likes to be dominated. Shame is his game.
Jarod is a 33-year old hot, ripped, and tattooed mechanic. He owns the town’s local garage. Divorced and bisexual, he’s a bad boy with a reputation for liking rough sex. He is more than intrigued by Forrest's offer and takes him up on it. Jarod turns out to be Forrest’s dream Dom.
I loved the in-depth character portrayals which really delve into Forrest's and Jarod's psyches. Forrest struggles with the belief it is impossible to satisfy his humiliation kink within a relationship. Every past relationship of Forrest’s has come to an end because his partners felt unable to degrade him in their role play once feelings became involved. And so he's made the decision that the kink is more important than a relationship.
Jarod, on the other hand, carries emotional baggage from his hometown in Hunt Creek, Tennessee. He had a nasty divorce triggered by his ex-wife stumbling upon his stash of hardcore porn. She outed him to his family and friends who disowned him and called him a monster. Being viewed as a monster by his loved ones is something that continues to haunt him. Although Jarod likes to go hard in his BDSM play, he is a responsible Dom who cares about the wellbeing of his subs.
“I’m a man with a conscience. I don’t wanna fuck someone up permanently. But this is hard. It’s so easy to have it go sideways, and I don’t wanna do that to you. I’ve already had people I care about look at me like I’m an animal. I don’t want that to happen with you, too.”
Forrest and Jarod had sex from the first time they met when Forrest propositioned Jarod. They continued to hook up regularly for intense role play. As I was reading along, I kept wondering how their episodic BDSM encounters would morph into a fully fledged relationship--and the answer was not convincingly. The transition was abrupt and did not allow for meaningful emotional development. It hinges on a major crisis in Jarod's life, which provides an opportunity for Forrest to provide emotional comfort. The emotional connection that eventually develops between the couple is crammed into the last quarter of the book.
For a book about humiliation, the sex was pretty mediocre. It was even a bit mechanical at times. Several scenes were reported rather than presented as they were happening. Even worse, the dirty talk was unimaginative and repetitive. But here’s one of the better quotes to whet your appetite:
“I’m going to slip my cock into your mouth and you’re going to fall asleep that way, keepin’ it warm for me. Because I love you, boy. I do, and I wanna give you everything you need. And that weight of my cock on your tongue, the feel of me in your mouth as you fall asleep, is gonna remind you of that. Remind you you’re owned now.”
“Tell me what you want. What makes your motor rev?” “Humiliation,” Forrest said. His heart thumped as he said the words. “Degradation. The dirtier the better. I want you to use me.”
So what happens when a mild mannered, buttoned up, tweedy accountant wants to indulge his humiliation kink in a small town? He propositions a garage owner with an offer of accounting services in exchange for satisfying his kinkiest fantasies. Sounds like a fair exchange right?
Forrest is 40-years old, gay and a staid accountant—at least on the outside. He loves color coded spreadsheets, bow ties and old school vests, but his sexual tastes are decidely not grandpa-like. He's into humiliation in a major way and he likes to be dominated. Shame is his game.
Jarod is a 33-year old hot, ripped, and tattooed mechanic. He owns the town’s local garage. Divorced and bisexual, he’s a bad boy with a reputation for liking rough sex. He is more than intrigued by Forrest's offer and takes him up on it. Jarod turns out to be Forrest’s dream Dom.
I loved the in-depth character portrayals which really delve into Forrest's and Jarod's psyches. Forrest struggles with the belief it is impossible to satisfy his humiliation kink within a relationship. Every past relationship of Forrest’s has come to an end because his partners felt unable to degrade him in their role play once feelings became involved. And so he's made the decision that the kink is more important than a relationship.
Jarod, on the other hand, carries emotional baggage from his hometown in Hunt Creek, Tennessee. He had a nasty divorce triggered by his ex-wife stumbling upon his stash of hardcore porn. She outed him to his family and friends who disowned him and called him a monster. Being viewed as a monster by his loved ones is something that continues to haunt him. Although Jarod likes to go hard in his BDSM play, he is a responsible Dom who cares about the wellbeing of his subs.
“I’m a man with a conscience. I don’t wanna fuck someone up permanently. But this is hard. It’s so easy to have it go sideways, and I don’t wanna do that to you. I’ve already had people I care about look at me like I’m an animal. I don’t want that to happen with you, too.”
Forrest and Jarod had sex from the first time they met when Forrest propositioned Jarod. They continued to hook up regularly for intense role play. As I was reading along, I kept wondering how their episodic BDSM encounters would morph into a fully fledged relationship--and the answer was not convincingly. The transition was abrupt and did not allow for meaningful emotional development. It hinges on a major crisis in Jarod's life, which provides an opportunity for Forrest to provide emotional comfort. The emotional connection that eventually develops between the couple is crammed into the last quarter of the book.
For a book about humiliation, the sex was pretty mediocre. It was even a bit mechanical at times. Several scenes were reported rather than presented as they were happening. Even worse, the dirty talk was unimaginative and repetitive. But here’s one of the better quotes to whet your appetite:
“I’m going to slip my cock into your mouth and you’re going to fall asleep that way, keepin’ it warm for me. Because I love you, boy. I do, and I wanna give you everything you need. And that weight of my cock on your tongue, the feel of me in your mouth as you fall asleep, is gonna remind you of that. Remind you you’re owned now.”
January 18, 2023
Mmmm zafa.
Me intrigan las demás historias y por eso, los leeré (en algún momento).
Forrest y Jarod estuvieron bien pero siento que todo el drama fue un poco innecesario. Me gustaron las escenas spicy pero hasta ahí.
Me intrigan las demás historias y por eso, los leeré (en algún momento).
Forrest y Jarod estuvieron bien pero siento que todo el drama fue un poco innecesario. Me gustaron las escenas spicy pero hasta ahí.
November 10, 2024
I can imagine that it must be a tricky undertaking, for any author that writes a book that is 98% about BDSM...even when it is between two consenting adults, to not experience the pressure to "get it right" and present an accurate and responsible portrayal of the lifestyle...without "turning off" 75% or more of the population of readers. I think Brigham Vaughn has well succeeded in "getting it right".
I've read a few reviews that the reviewers stated that they didn't understand the title...what did the main characters have to be ashamed of? Acceptance was on the radars of the participants and who cares if the rest of the population accepted it or not? One reviewer even asked if someone could explain the title. Okay... the title confused me at first...then as I read along, I think I "got it". It's not that Forest was ashamed of his particular kink...absolutely NOT! It was that folks in the small Lake Michigan town that knew him as the mild-mannered accountant, would have happily plastered the label of "SHAME" on him if they knew, suspected, or even speculated about his "kink" preferences...and I will admit that his particular preferences were a bit hard to understand...but then...neither I, nor anyone else has to understand it... "consenting adults" are the key words here.
Jarod was the town mechanic, and he was also a member of the "kink" community but as a Dom, not as a submissive. Then Forest found him and their relationship started out as really "rough playtime" then over time, it morphed from only "rough playtime" to sometimes soft "playtime" that developed into a connection that neither man ever expected, but neither wanted to ever end.
This story is really heavily BDSM laced, with humiliation and bondage play, so it will diffidently NOT be for all readers...even readers that are into kink to some degree, may find it a bit difficult.
I read a lot of "strange" and different things...so I will have to give Brigham Vaughn 5 stars for the characters of Forest and Jarod alone. I have really enjoyed this Pemberton series and look forward to meeting more of the town's residents.
I've read a few reviews that the reviewers stated that they didn't understand the title...what did the main characters have to be ashamed of? Acceptance was on the radars of the participants and who cares if the rest of the population accepted it or not? One reviewer even asked if someone could explain the title. Okay... the title confused me at first...then as I read along, I think I "got it". It's not that Forest was ashamed of his particular kink...absolutely NOT! It was that folks in the small Lake Michigan town that knew him as the mild-mannered accountant, would have happily plastered the label of "SHAME" on him if they knew, suspected, or even speculated about his "kink" preferences...and I will admit that his particular preferences were a bit hard to understand...but then...neither I, nor anyone else has to understand it... "consenting adults" are the key words here.
Jarod was the town mechanic, and he was also a member of the "kink" community but as a Dom, not as a submissive. Then Forest found him and their relationship started out as really "rough playtime" then over time, it morphed from only "rough playtime" to sometimes soft "playtime" that developed into a connection that neither man ever expected, but neither wanted to ever end.
This story is really heavily BDSM laced, with humiliation and bondage play, so it will diffidently NOT be for all readers...even readers that are into kink to some degree, may find it a bit difficult.
I read a lot of "strange" and different things...so I will have to give Brigham Vaughn 5 stars for the characters of Forest and Jarod alone. I have really enjoyed this Pemberton series and look forward to meeting more of the town's residents.
May 9, 2024
meet for the k!nk, stay for the love.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
A comfort read with kink
- BDSM
- degradation
- humiliation
- sp@nking
Everyone said Brigham writes the best comfort reads. Well I didn’t know Brigham was a freak like that. In a good way. This series is fun, light hearted, with a good amount of kink.
I said this in the review for book 1 in this series and I’ll mention it again, this series is good for someone dipping their toe into reading about kink. The characters talk about likes/dislikes, trust, boundaries, and safe words. All things that make it feel more realistic than some other books I’ve read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
A comfort read with kink
- BDSM
- degradation
- humiliation
- sp@nking
Everyone said Brigham writes the best comfort reads. Well I didn’t know Brigham was a freak like that. In a good way. This series is fun, light hearted, with a good amount of kink.
I said this in the review for book 1 in this series and I’ll mention it again, this series is good for someone dipping their toe into reading about kink. The characters talk about likes/dislikes, trust, boundaries, and safe words. All things that make it feel more realistic than some other books I’ve read.
May 24, 2021
Couldn’t put it down
One of those books that I didn’t want to end. Forrest’s approach to getting what he wanted did kind of skirt the edges of being dangerous so I’m really glad that Jarod showed him a different way, that a true connection enhanced what they had rather than taking away from it. So beautiful (and magical) finding that person who connects with you so well and accepts you as you are.
One of those books that I didn’t want to end. Forrest’s approach to getting what he wanted did kind of skirt the edges of being dangerous so I’m really glad that Jarod showed him a different way, that a true connection enhanced what they had rather than taking away from it. So beautiful (and magical) finding that person who connects with you so well and accepts you as you are.
June 22, 2022
I loved the kink. It really appealed to me and the sex sex scenes between Jerod and Forest were incredible. I loved Jerod and I knew all along that I would come to love Forest. It took me most of the book, but I knew Brigham Vaughn would come through. This is an author you can depend on for a satisfying story.
September 28, 2021
Light on the humiliation but still a lovely m/m read with some kink.
June 8, 2024
Embracing His Shame is the second book in Brigham Vaughn's Naughty in Pendleton series. It can be read as a standalone. It's a MM kinky romance told from a third person dual point of view with a guaranteed happily ever after. You can expect mild humiliation play, small town vibes, a bad boy mechanic, and a deceptively kinky accountant.
We've met one of the main characters, Jarod, in Date in a Pinch (Alexander's best friend) and Three Shots (Grant's cousin). He definitely had a different approach to kink than Alexander, and I was intrigued to read his book. Beneath that bad boy exterior, Jarod was clearly carrying a lot of pain from how his life in Tennessee ended. And then there's Forest, the deceptively kinky accountant with a need for humiliation he struggles to meet. These two shouldn't work together, yet they did, so well. It was almost entertaining to watch them try and keep feelings out of their arrangement. Humiliation play is different, but I like the way the author portrayed it here. I also appreciated her showing what happened when their play went too far and boundaries had to be reset. I don't think this is something that's always included in a kinky romance, but the representation is important, nonetheless. We've been teased with Tyler and Donovan's explosive dynamic throughout Embracing His Shame as well as Three Shots so I'm looking forward to their story next in Made to Order!
We've met one of the main characters, Jarod, in Date in a Pinch (Alexander's best friend) and Three Shots (Grant's cousin). He definitely had a different approach to kink than Alexander, and I was intrigued to read his book. Beneath that bad boy exterior, Jarod was clearly carrying a lot of pain from how his life in Tennessee ended. And then there's Forest, the deceptively kinky accountant with a need for humiliation he struggles to meet. These two shouldn't work together, yet they did, so well. It was almost entertaining to watch them try and keep feelings out of their arrangement. Humiliation play is different, but I like the way the author portrayed it here. I also appreciated her showing what happened when their play went too far and boundaries had to be reset. I don't think this is something that's always included in a kinky romance, but the representation is important, nonetheless. We've been teased with Tyler and Donovan's explosive dynamic throughout Embracing His Shame as well as Three Shots so I'm looking forward to their story next in Made to Order!
May 21, 2021
The characters in this book are surprising in the best way! Here you have two people who could not seem more opposite: Forrest, a reputable and seemingly straight-laced accountant, and Jarod, a dominant mechanic with a reputation for liking it rough. For as outwardly opposite as they are, they actually fit together extremely well. Their desires suit and they have chemistry in spades. It makes for some very hot and naughty scenes right off the bat! Of course, the more time they spend together, the more their feelings evolve. It’s wonderful to see how they managed to balance their lives and their dynamic to make a relationship work between them. And what I adored is that whilst there is so much kinky goodness, there is still an underlying sweetness to their romance as they fall in love. A creative and very enjoyable read!
May 23, 2021
It took me a while to get into this book but suddenly I couldn't let go.
I was a little worried going into this book about the kink, that is not my usual taste but. it didn’t really push me out of my comfort zone. The scenes were hot with plenty of kink. I really enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Jarod and Forrest. For me it was the best part , when I couldn't put the book down
Can't wait to see what next book will bring us
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review
I was a little worried going into this book about the kink, that is not my usual taste but. it didn’t really push me out of my comfort zone. The scenes were hot with plenty of kink. I really enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Jarod and Forrest. For me it was the best part , when I couldn't put the book down
Can't wait to see what next book will bring us
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review
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March 24, 2022This isn't generally something I'd read and I'm not sure why I did, but I found it pleasantly enjoyable and will probably read more from this author.
The good: Jarod and Forrest together were interesting and stayed true to themselves. especially Forrest. He was a cold fish from start to finish, unapologetically so, and even though he thawed with Jarod, he didn't compromise his love of kink. The tender vanilla sex scene in the motel was rather lovely.
The less good: I skimmed some of the family stuff - probably relevant and more interesting if I'd read the whole series. It felt a bit info dumpy.
Having said that, I liked the style and the location and the MC's together.
The good: Jarod and Forrest together were interesting and stayed true to themselves. especially Forrest. He was a cold fish from start to finish, unapologetically so, and even though he thawed with Jarod, he didn't compromise his love of kink. The tender vanilla sex scene in the motel was rather lovely.
The less good: I skimmed some of the family stuff - probably relevant and more interesting if I'd read the whole series. It felt a bit info dumpy.
Having said that, I liked the style and the location and the MC's together.
October 10, 2023
EMBRACING HIS SHAME wasn't as strong a read for me compared to other books by this author. I think the story and the kinks just weren't my thing so I had a hard time connecting with Jarod and Forrest's romance. They were both fairly likable characters and I did enjoy seeing how they went from being transactional in their scenes to actually having feelings but I wasn't overly engaged as a whole.
Content Warning: homophobic family
Content Warning: homophobic family
July 11, 2021
A perfectly dirty raunchy sexscapade
This books was 50% hot AF filth, 40% personal angst and growth, 10% sweetness, and 100% a 5 star read. This is a humiliation kink book and a little sadism on the side. There wasn’t any body fluid play, so don’t worry about that if it’s not your thing. Just a lot of dirty talk and risqué semi public behavior.
This books was 50% hot AF filth, 40% personal angst and growth, 10% sweetness, and 100% a 5 star read. This is a humiliation kink book and a little sadism on the side. There wasn’t any body fluid play, so don’t worry about that if it’s not your thing. Just a lot of dirty talk and risqué semi public behavior.
June 27, 2021
This is really difficult to rate. I definitely enjoyed the kink and the dynamics between the two main characters (although Forest is an idiot and I wanted to kick him a few times).
What I didn't enjoy was the complete lack of romance, not even a kiss or a hug until almost the end of the book.
Yes, I get the Dom/sub dynamics, but honestly if you don't allow yourself to be loved, because it might ruin your idea of dominance, it is quite stupid in my eyes.
So, while the story had some pretty hot sex scenes, it was not satisfying overall and had me skipping pages to get to the end.
Mixed bag and an average read for me, 3 stars.
What I didn't enjoy was the complete lack of romance, not even a kiss or a hug until almost the end of the book.
Yes, I get the Dom/sub dynamics, but honestly if you don't allow yourself to be loved, because it might ruin your idea of dominance, it is quite stupid in my eyes.
So, while the story had some pretty hot sex scenes, it was not satisfying overall and had me skipping pages to get to the end.
Mixed bag and an average read for me, 3 stars.
August 13, 2021
My search for a good kinky book with realistic setting in which characters are nicely fleshed out has come to an end. This was a really good read!
What I liked:
1. Jarod's creativity as a Dom - Whether it was coming up with impromptu ideas to torture Forrest, or trying to deal with Forrest's nebulous humiliation kink, Jarod was the star of the book for me. He got the cool, detached yet dirty-talking Dom down pat.
2. Forrest's misgivings - At first I thought the 'no kissing' Pretty Woman-y rule was absurd, but as we delve deep into Forrest's psyche, it makes sense why he has all those walls around him.
3. The scenes weren't clinical - While Jarod and Forrest do discuss hard limits and safewords, their sessions are pretty much on-the-spot, and are very much devoid of the stiff "surgical room BDSM" that I'm not a fan of. One minute Jarod and Forrest are walking down the road, the next Jarod would pull Forrest into a dirty alleyway and tell him to bend over and spread 'em, and Forrest would do just that.
What I didn't like:
The only teeny tiny complain I have is with the epilogue.
What I liked:
1. Jarod's creativity as a Dom - Whether it was coming up with impromptu ideas to torture Forrest, or trying to deal with Forrest's nebulous humiliation kink, Jarod was the star of the book for me. He got the cool, detached yet dirty-talking Dom down pat.
2. Forrest's misgivings - At first I thought the 'no kissing' Pretty Woman-y rule was absurd, but as we delve deep into Forrest's psyche, it makes sense why he has all those walls around him.
3. The scenes weren't clinical - While Jarod and Forrest do discuss hard limits and safewords, their sessions are pretty much on-the-spot, and are very much devoid of the stiff "surgical room BDSM" that I'm not a fan of. One minute Jarod and Forrest are walking down the road, the next Jarod would pull Forrest into a dirty alleyway and tell him to bend over and spread 'em, and Forrest would do just that.
What I didn't like:
The only teeny tiny complain I have is with the epilogue.
August 24, 2025
Tags: Kinky, humiliation play, safe sane consensual done well, chemistry, opposites attract, accountant MC, mechanic MC, random tension breaking plot kittens
Loved this. Chemistry was excellent, and the kink was so well done. Would read more by this author.
Loved this. Chemistry was excellent, and the kink was so well done. Would read more by this author.
May 19, 2021
This book was SO good! Forrest and Jarod were two men that you would NEVER expect to see together. Forrest is a bow tie wearing accountant with a spotless reputation while Jarod is a mechanic with a reputation for liking things rough in the bedroom. Forrest has been longing to find someone to satisfy his darker needs and believes Jarod may just be what he's been looking for. These two are intense from their first interaction! Jarod seems to know just what Forrest needs and loves how well Forrest responds to him. These two are passionate, filthy, and gloriously naughty as often as possible. Even though this is supposed to be strictly sex, feelings have a way of sneaking in and screwing things up. The way these two handle this particular situation will either end them immediately or set them up for a lifetime of happiness and debauchery. I encourage you to read this book to see which path they choose! Happy reading!
October 4, 2022
That was lovely.
Brigham Vaughn is very, very good at writing contemporary, kinky romances that feel simultaneously very sweet and very, very filthy. I loved Jarod and Forrest so damn much: I admit that they're both horribly stubborn at times, especially Forrest, but I loved them so much, and their relationship was truly something special.
The small-town setting was impaccable and I loved how, even though the kink and the BDSM was fairly prominent, there's still quite a bit of a plot and there's space given to the secondary characters as well.
The steam was equally impaccable and the kinks? *fans herself* Boy, degradation/humiliation kink at its finest.
I wasn't sure if I'd be interested in reading the next book, but actually, after that small glimpse of the next two MCs, I'm really curious to know their story.
Brigham Vaughn is very, very good at writing contemporary, kinky romances that feel simultaneously very sweet and very, very filthy. I loved Jarod and Forrest so damn much: I admit that they're both horribly stubborn at times, especially Forrest, but I loved them so much, and their relationship was truly something special.
The small-town setting was impaccable and I loved how, even though the kink and the BDSM was fairly prominent, there's still quite a bit of a plot and there's space given to the secondary characters as well.
The steam was equally impaccable and the kinks? *fans herself* Boy, degradation/humiliation kink at its finest.
I wasn't sure if I'd be interested in reading the next book, but actually, after that small glimpse of the next two MCs, I'm really curious to know their story.
July 4, 2021
Super edgy and extra kinky, this story has major heat and is so brilliantly written that you’ll get sucked right into the pages and not want to leave! I just loved the characters and the way they worked through their dynamic was so fantastically done that I can only bow down to the brilliance of the author.
September 7, 2021
Hot kink
Who knew humiliation kink could be so hot.
Forrest met his match in Jarod. Wow!
The things they got up to was epically hot.
The development of their relationship was totally believable. It was fun to read.
I really enjoyed their journey to their HEA which was surprisingly sweet. Highly recommend this book and series!
Who knew humiliation kink could be so hot.
Forrest met his match in Jarod. Wow!
The things they got up to was epically hot.
The development of their relationship was totally believable. It was fun to read.
I really enjoyed their journey to their HEA which was surprisingly sweet. Highly recommend this book and series!
June 13, 2021
Hot but eventually sweet mm romance
This is definitely a romance with kink in it but it also has a great story and is ultimately about how we all need to make accommodations in a relationship. Lots of fun to read.
This is definitely a romance with kink in it but it also has a great story and is ultimately about how we all need to make accommodations in a relationship. Lots of fun to read.
March 11, 2022
Wow! My kindle is on meltdown and still smoking. Who would have thought the bow tie accountant and a rough neck looking mechanic would have such chemistry. This is not my favorite kink, but I couldn’t put the book down. Excellent!
May 22, 2021
A great read
I really enjoyed this book and it was a lot different to the first in this series. I loved how you could see the characters slowly becoming more invested in more than just the dynamic and some of the steamier scenes were off the charts hot! If you like a story with a strong humiliation kink then you will love this one.
I really enjoyed this book and it was a lot different to the first in this series. I loved how you could see the characters slowly becoming more invested in more than just the dynamic and some of the steamier scenes were off the charts hot! If you like a story with a strong humiliation kink then you will love this one.
May 19, 2021
This was good, a story about two kinky boys that hinted at pretty intense stuff but what they actually did, while naughty and adventurous, didn't push me out of my comfort zone. And despite trying to avoid it, Forrest and Jarod developed feelings and turned into something much deeper. Forrest was way more hesitant. I actually really liked seeing Jarod soften and and taking care of Forrest.
I like how creative they were in their playing, whether it be unique locations or toys. But I really like their connection and I also liked Forrest's bowties. This was an enjoyable read.
I like how creative they were in their playing, whether it be unique locations or toys. But I really like their connection and I also liked Forrest's bowties. This was an enjoyable read.
December 13, 2021
Great book and a real eye-opener. I didn't expect to enjoy the shame kink featured in this story, but discovered that in the right hands even something I find completely incomprehensible can be beautiful and sexy. Live and learn. Then again, maybe I should have known. Brigham Vaughn hasn't let me down yet.
May 21, 2021
Content warnings:
This book is the absolute complete opposite of the first book in the series. While the first was super sweet and sort of, well, as vanilla as you can get with BDSM, this one’s a bit rougher around the edges, though it still has that sweet center. And like the couple in the first series, it start out with a sex-only relationship that morphs into something different.
When Forrest overhears Jarod, the local mechanic, complain to a friend that he can’t find anyone who matches his kink, Forrest is shocked – and turned on – to realize they might mesh very well. And he’s even more shocked when he works up the courage to approach Jarod and offer a deal: he’ll help out with the garage’s books if Jarod’ll help him out with the kink. Jared agrees to a no-strings-attached relationship, but while they may fit perfectly together in the bedroom, handling feelings is something neither man is accomplished with.
The two main characters couldn’t be more different on the surface. Forrest appears to be a strait-laced, bow tie-wearing accountant, while Jarod’s a tattooed mechanic with a reputation for liking it rough. Both, however, are drawn to each other because they haven’t been able to find someone to fulfill their kink needs in previous relationships. Jarod’s marriage ended dramatically when his wife discovered some of his porn habits, and he thinks he’s a monster for his sexual proclivities – after all, his ex-wife and mother certainly think he is, despite the fact that Jarod’s never done anything without full and enthusiastic consent. Forrest’s grad school boyfriend was too horrified to give him what he needed – he likes being hurt and humiliated – but ultimately Forrest decided he needed the release he gets from that more than he needed a relationship. He’s convinced that once Jarod gets to know him, if he starts having feelings for him, he won’t be able to give him what he needs any more.
While both have their reasons for avoiding a romantic relationship, the inevitable obviously happens. Despite appearances, Jarod’s really quite the softie inside, and while he’s certainly in to humiliating Forrest, he’s also (usually) caring and careful enough to do it in a way that wouldn’t ruin either of their careers. He respects Forrest’s boundaries and he’s extremely clear on consent, but he’s also creative enough – and he understands Forrest enough – to know how to push them. So while you’d expect Jarod to be the relationship hold out, Forrest is the one who’s setting up barriers all over the place. Jarod likes to look down on himself and acts like he’s dumb, but he certainly understands relationships better than book-smart Forrest!
As for cons, I have a serious pet peeve with written-out accents, and that’s done heavily with Jarod’s southern twang: -ing verbs are frequently shortened to -in’. It’s very jarring to me and takes me out of the story, which is especially annoying during what should be heartfelt love confessions. I also felt that Jarod’s backstory was much heavier – in terms of content and depth – than Forrest’s.
Overall, I’d give this a solid 3.5 stars, rounded up to four.
I received an advance review copy of this book from Neon Rainbow. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
This book is the absolute complete opposite of the first book in the series. While the first was super sweet and sort of, well, as vanilla as you can get with BDSM, this one’s a bit rougher around the edges, though it still has that sweet center. And like the couple in the first series, it start out with a sex-only relationship that morphs into something different.
When Forrest overhears Jarod, the local mechanic, complain to a friend that he can’t find anyone who matches his kink, Forrest is shocked – and turned on – to realize they might mesh very well. And he’s even more shocked when he works up the courage to approach Jarod and offer a deal: he’ll help out with the garage’s books if Jarod’ll help him out with the kink. Jared agrees to a no-strings-attached relationship, but while they may fit perfectly together in the bedroom, handling feelings is something neither man is accomplished with.
“It was usually that he was too rough around the edges for most people. Too hard, too demanding, his thoughts too dark. But it seemed everything was upside down with Forrest. With him, he was too soft.”
The two main characters couldn’t be more different on the surface. Forrest appears to be a strait-laced, bow tie-wearing accountant, while Jarod’s a tattooed mechanic with a reputation for liking it rough. Both, however, are drawn to each other because they haven’t been able to find someone to fulfill their kink needs in previous relationships. Jarod’s marriage ended dramatically when his wife discovered some of his porn habits, and he thinks he’s a monster for his sexual proclivities – after all, his ex-wife and mother certainly think he is, despite the fact that Jarod’s never done anything without full and enthusiastic consent. Forrest’s grad school boyfriend was too horrified to give him what he needed – he likes being hurt and humiliated – but ultimately Forrest decided he needed the release he gets from that more than he needed a relationship. He’s convinced that once Jarod gets to know him, if he starts having feelings for him, he won’t be able to give him what he needs any more.
“For years, Forrest had been sure that he could never have what other people did. That a boyfriend or partner couldn’t give him what he needed. But for the first time, he wondered what it would feel like to really give someone else what they needed.”
While both have their reasons for avoiding a romantic relationship, the inevitable obviously happens. Despite appearances, Jarod’s really quite the softie inside, and while he’s certainly in to humiliating Forrest, he’s also (usually) caring and careful enough to do it in a way that wouldn’t ruin either of their careers. He respects Forrest’s boundaries and he’s extremely clear on consent, but he’s also creative enough – and he understands Forrest enough – to know how to push them. So while you’d expect Jarod to be the relationship hold out, Forrest is the one who’s setting up barriers all over the place. Jarod likes to look down on himself and acts like he’s dumb, but he certainly understands relationships better than book-smart Forrest!
“You’ve been pushin’ and pushin’ to keep me away. But what if you let me in?”
“I’m scared,” Forrest admitted.
“Me, too.” Jarod cupped his cheek. “But I’m more scared of losin’ you.”
As for cons, I have a serious pet peeve with written-out accents, and that’s done heavily with Jarod’s southern twang: -ing verbs are frequently shortened to -in’. It’s very jarring to me and takes me out of the story, which is especially annoying during what should be heartfelt love confessions. I also felt that Jarod’s backstory was much heavier – in terms of content and depth – than Forrest’s.
Overall, I’d give this a solid 3.5 stars, rounded up to four.
I received an advance review copy of this book from Neon Rainbow. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
May 23, 2021
I'm really enjoying the Pendleton series so far. This book is my first in reading humiliation play and its very well written, giving me insight into both sides of the coin - those who like to be humiliated and those you like to humiliate.
Forrest probably is the guy you least think if as kinky as a bow tie wearing accountant but he has been for years. Finding that perfect partner, however, has been a constant battle of someone not being able to give him what he needs when feelings get involved. So, he's stopped with the feelings and now just looks for the kink. He's found a perfect partner in Jarod, the local mechanic. Rumours around town let Forrest aware of what he's into but overhearing a conversation between Jarod and Alexander means that he now knows for sure and has a way in.
From their first meeting, it is hot between these two! With Jarod constantly keeping Forrest on his toes, it's entertaining to see what he comes up with but there is only so long that people can go without forming some kind of connection. It's what Forrest fears but Jarod is sure that he can give what he needs as well as loving him as he deserves - "dominating Forrest comes as easily as breathing". Jarod's not without his own worries and hurts from his past, one even rearing its ugly head to knock him off balance. Both have to figure out what they want for the future and themselves before they can make a real go at anything together so there's a little dose of drama as some panic rises and a lot of thinking occurs. Jarod is lucky in that he has his cousin, Grant, to talk to but Forrest is pretty alone which made me sad.
Overall, this is a great book. Even when things got slightly uncomfortable for me, it worked so well for the characters and you can feel the enjoyment that they both get from it. One of my favourite lines from the book I think says it all about this community - "There is no one right way to do kink. It just had to work for the people involved". If you haven't read this kink before, give it a go. The author has written it in way that is intrinsic to the story and the MC's lives.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Forrest probably is the guy you least think if as kinky as a bow tie wearing accountant but he has been for years. Finding that perfect partner, however, has been a constant battle of someone not being able to give him what he needs when feelings get involved. So, he's stopped with the feelings and now just looks for the kink. He's found a perfect partner in Jarod, the local mechanic. Rumours around town let Forrest aware of what he's into but overhearing a conversation between Jarod and Alexander means that he now knows for sure and has a way in.
From their first meeting, it is hot between these two! With Jarod constantly keeping Forrest on his toes, it's entertaining to see what he comes up with but there is only so long that people can go without forming some kind of connection. It's what Forrest fears but Jarod is sure that he can give what he needs as well as loving him as he deserves - "dominating Forrest comes as easily as breathing". Jarod's not without his own worries and hurts from his past, one even rearing its ugly head to knock him off balance. Both have to figure out what they want for the future and themselves before they can make a real go at anything together so there's a little dose of drama as some panic rises and a lot of thinking occurs. Jarod is lucky in that he has his cousin, Grant, to talk to but Forrest is pretty alone which made me sad.
Overall, this is a great book. Even when things got slightly uncomfortable for me, it worked so well for the characters and you can feel the enjoyment that they both get from it. One of my favourite lines from the book I think says it all about this community - "There is no one right way to do kink. It just had to work for the people involved". If you haven't read this kink before, give it a go. The author has written it in way that is intrinsic to the story and the MC's lives.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
November 7, 2024
Aw man, the last book I'm reading in this series! This was definitely the most up my alley. Some of my favorite books are dark romance. I love macabre and horrible things. This wasn't a dark romance of course but this one was definitely the most out there.
I won't repeat what I've said in previous reviews, I felt like I covered most of my thoughts in my Made to Order review. It really does apply to every book in this series as I'm also writing these after reading all 5 books currently out
A lot of public stuff, humiliation, and degradation between two consenting adults. It's lovely. I wish there was just more though.
Forrest and Jarod were just very well matched. A lot of the plot in the book seems to be the two of them testing each other to see how far the other will go. They've both been burned before because of their kinks. They both don't want to go all in because they're afraid they won't be accepted for it.
So when the book resolved by almost suddenly catching feelings, it was kind of...jarring for me? Like there were a couple moments leading up to it where I felt like, okay I can see how they would fall in love. Just I didn't love how it was executed with the night in the motel.
I almost wish the book really went further. Pushed harder. So the two of them could bare their entire souls and see what lay beneath. They could look each other in the eye with all their cards on the table, then realized they found the person who would accept them. Even for all their deep dark secrets.
It kind of happened but not on the kink level.
It's odd because Forrest was concerned Jarod catching feelings meant that Jarod would not be able to perform the humiliation that Forrest craved. However, I felt like the book literally did that.
I suppose I thought maybe they'd go into fisting and watersports. There was a mention of Jarod watching porn of that stuff. Maybe it was too extreme for a general audience?
At the end of the day though, I still really enjoyed it! Also I was cackling at the cucumber scene. I'll definitely check out some of Brigham Vaughn's other works but probably after a break!
I won't repeat what I've said in previous reviews, I felt like I covered most of my thoughts in my Made to Order review. It really does apply to every book in this series as I'm also writing these after reading all 5 books currently out
A lot of public stuff, humiliation, and degradation between two consenting adults. It's lovely. I wish there was just more though.
Forrest and Jarod were just very well matched. A lot of the plot in the book seems to be the two of them testing each other to see how far the other will go. They've both been burned before because of their kinks. They both don't want to go all in because they're afraid they won't be accepted for it.
So when the book resolved by almost suddenly catching feelings, it was kind of...jarring for me? Like there were a couple moments leading up to it where I felt like, okay I can see how they would fall in love. Just I didn't love how it was executed with the night in the motel.
I almost wish the book really went further. Pushed harder. So the two of them could bare their entire souls and see what lay beneath. They could look each other in the eye with all their cards on the table, then realized they found the person who would accept them. Even for all their deep dark secrets.
It kind of happened but not on the kink level.
It's odd because Forrest was concerned Jarod catching feelings meant that Jarod would not be able to perform the humiliation that Forrest craved. However, I felt like the book literally did that.
I suppose I thought maybe they'd go into fisting and watersports. There was a mention of Jarod watching porn of that stuff. Maybe it was too extreme for a general audience?
At the end of the day though, I still really enjoyed it! Also I was cackling at the cucumber scene. I'll definitely check out some of Brigham Vaughn's other works but probably after a break!
May 23, 2021
4.5 stars
I’m the last person to kink-shame, and I’m certainly aware that not everyone shares the same kinks. That being said, I hesitated to read this book because not only do I not have much interest in Forrest’s kinks (especially the humiliation aspect), but I also experience pretty hardcore second-hand embarrassment. As in, I genuinely wasn’t sure whether I’d make it through this book depending on what direction Vaughn took the spicy elements.
However, not only did I finish this book, but I devoured it in a single afternoon and enjoyed pretty much every bit of it. Vaughn does an excellent job of focusing on the characters experiencing a connection in their scenes rather than playing up the kinks for shock value or dramatic effect. Even before Forrest and Jarod even consider that there might be something more, Vaughn also highlights how Jarod specifically focuses on how best to meet Forrest’s needs in a safe way for both of them. Of course, they run into trouble along the way, but it’s nowhere near as awkward to read as it is for the characters to experience.
Ultimately, the kink is merely how the characters initially connect. Everything beyond that is a solid romance arc that only made me want to occasionally roll my eyes at the main characters. Both men experience significant character development—internally and externally—outside of the romance plot that was also thoroughly enjoyable to experience. Though this book is a stand-alone, I encourage readers to check out Three Shots, which is also set in Pendleton, for another angle on Jarod’s family issues (and a lovely romance story of its own).
Once again, Vaughn teases us in the epilogue with the couple we’ll meet in the next book in this series. Between Vaughn’s excellent storytelling and dynamic characters, I can’t wait to read it in a few weeks.
I’m the last person to kink-shame, and I’m certainly aware that not everyone shares the same kinks. That being said, I hesitated to read this book because not only do I not have much interest in Forrest’s kinks (especially the humiliation aspect), but I also experience pretty hardcore second-hand embarrassment. As in, I genuinely wasn’t sure whether I’d make it through this book depending on what direction Vaughn took the spicy elements.
However, not only did I finish this book, but I devoured it in a single afternoon and enjoyed pretty much every bit of it. Vaughn does an excellent job of focusing on the characters experiencing a connection in their scenes rather than playing up the kinks for shock value or dramatic effect. Even before Forrest and Jarod even consider that there might be something more, Vaughn also highlights how Jarod specifically focuses on how best to meet Forrest’s needs in a safe way for both of them. Of course, they run into trouble along the way, but it’s nowhere near as awkward to read as it is for the characters to experience.
Ultimately, the kink is merely how the characters initially connect. Everything beyond that is a solid romance arc that only made me want to occasionally roll my eyes at the main characters. Both men experience significant character development—internally and externally—outside of the romance plot that was also thoroughly enjoyable to experience. Though this book is a stand-alone, I encourage readers to check out Three Shots, which is also set in Pendleton, for another angle on Jarod’s family issues (and a lovely romance story of its own).
Once again, Vaughn teases us in the epilogue with the couple we’ll meet in the next book in this series. Between Vaughn’s excellent storytelling and dynamic characters, I can’t wait to read it in a few weeks.
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