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Wicked Sanctuary...surrender your inhibitions

Growing up, Allyson Young learned firsthand that the people who are supposed to love you don’t. Meaningful relationships are an illusion. Working alongside hard-to-ignore contractor Zeke Riggs causes her to rethink that love is possible.

Having been shot down twice already, Zeke asks Allyson out one more time. When she accepts, he’s floored and determined to show her he’s not like other men who walked away. Breaking through the tough veneer of hers won’t be easy, but he’s not letting go this time. He intends to show her how worthy she is of being cherished and loved.

Until a family dinner drives home to Allyson she can’t outrun her past and how unlovable she is. Leaving Zeke before she destroys him is the only option. Zeke must find her before everything they’ve built is destroyed.

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 11, 2021

3 people are currently reading
35 people want to read

About the author

Marie Tuhart

69 books379 followers
Marie Tuhart lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her muses, Tommy and Trina her two rescue dogs. Marie loves to read and write, when she’s not writing, she spends time with family, traveling and enjoying life.

Marie Tuhart is a multi-published author of hot contemporary romance for readers fascinated by approachable alpha males in and out of the bedroom. Mare’s fun, safe and sexy stories offer a captivating romantic escape in the arms of likeable characters who know which buttons to push and which are off limits. Go on, embrace the temptation… https://www.marietuhart.com.

To be alerted on new releases on Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/marietuhart or Book Bub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/marie....

Also you can join Marie’s newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor... where she gives her group advance information on her books, runs contests and does giveaways just for newsletter readers. Marie can also be found on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/marietuhart/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/marietuhart, and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marietuhart

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5 stars
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18 (38%)
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6 (12%)
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Laz the Sailor.
1,815 reviews81 followers
December 21, 2021
I look forward to each book in this series, as the concept and the core characters are great. However, the quality of the plot and the amount of sizzle varies a fair bit with each story. This story is good, but it falls on the weaker side of the series.

The core characters are very good, and they start off with a professional relationship that slowly evolves into something more, encouraged by their mutual friends at the Wicked Sanctuary club. While it was different (in a good way) that the challenge wasn't life-threatening, the bad guy was revealed early, and his character was very thin.

The main families were dysfunctional in somewhat typical ways, but both were over the top, even though one was never introduced.

The few sex scenes were fairly light given the BDSM ecosystem, and the author skipped the opportunity to share their joy at the end.

As the pendulum swings, I anticipate that the next book will be outstanding. I look forward to reading it.
Profile Image for Nedra81 .
907 reviews
January 1, 2022
Another fantastic addition to Marie’s Wicked Sanctuary series, though Zeke and Allyson’s story did seem to be lacking in the steam department. Having the pleasure of getting to know the characters within this series has been more than enjoyable, and her knowledge of the bdsm world never ceases to amaze me. Her introduction to different equipment within the dungeon was rather enlightening and fun, while incorporating the lifestyle with caution and professionalism.

“𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕟 𝕛𝕦𝕤𝕥 𝕒 𝕥𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕘𝕦𝕚𝕕𝕖, 𝕚𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦’𝕣𝕖 𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕕.”

Allyson was an interesting character. Her hesitancy with allowing Zeke an opportunity was understandable with her history, along with her deflection of “obeying” a man outside the bedroom. Her self-destructive behavior caused her trust issues, and added to her inability to accept feelings from others.

“ℂ𝕒𝕟 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕪 𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕥𝕒𝕝𝕜𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕞𝕖 𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕀 𝕕𝕠𝕟’𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕕𝕠?”

Zeke was such a patient and passionate man. Going above and beyond to gain Allyson’s trust and giving their connection a chance. He’s extremely attentive and in tune with her needs, always a step ahead as if he had a sixth sense, able to read her emotions and mind. Taking charge when needed, putting her safety first and offering his protection.

“𝕊𝕙𝕚𝕓𝕒𝕣𝕚 𝕔𝕒𝕟 𝕓𝕖 𝕕𝕖𝕖𝕡𝕝𝕪 𝕒𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕘”

Marie has an interesting ability to write smut scenes with so much passion mixed with excitement. Zeke and Allyson’s chemistry may have helped, their connection being evident from the beginning, though their initial relationship was professional turned intimate. I absolutely loved Marie’s detailed explanation of Shibari scenes, her knowledge showing through the pages. Cannot wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Kelly  DeMarco.
1,927 reviews4 followers
November 24, 2021
Unending and unwavering patience while exploring all their desires
Possess (Wicked Sanctuary Book 5) by Marie Tuhart features Zeke and Allyson; two people brought together on a professional level, with common interests but completely different upbringings. Their relationship builds ever so slowly as Allyson has many excuses and hang ups preventing her from feeling free to explore what she really wants. Zeke is a sure thing and truly kind, caring, patient and Dominant in all the best ways.
The plot of this book is all encompassing of Allyson's emotional state, past and childhood in addition to kinky interests she and Zeke share. I was fascinated by Zeke's Dominant specialty, Shibari, and I loved how the implementation of this skill helps both Zeke and Allyson in complementary ways. Both of them benefit greatly and creates a deeper and impactful connection.
Overall, these characters develop a wonderful and loving relationship through their mutual desire of kink that matches their needs and wants beautifully. Despite the negative feelings that Allyson harbors as well as her low sense of self-worth, she perseveres and fights her fears for Zeke. And Zeke demonstrates his unending and unwavering patience, never giving up on their HEA.
I read an ARC of this book via Hidden Gems and voluntarily share my review.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews64 followers
November 26, 2021
Allyson has poured so much time and energy into her job and staying out of anything that could remotely be considered a relationship. Meanwhile, Zeke has quietly been waiting for her to see him as something more than just a part of her job. This book could almost be considered a love letter to the arts of patience and focus. There are a lot of big emotions in this book, and some of them make for some very heavy reading. But they dig into some areas of the human psyche that I think all of us could stand to take a second look at, especially when it comes to determining our own self worth. As always, I adore the way the author stresses “safe, sane, and consensual” in the Lifestyle aspects depicted, as well as a strong reliance on safewords and communication. I love Wicked Sanctuary and I can’t wait until we get to come back.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.
Profile Image for Darcy.
1,709 reviews9 followers
November 27, 2021
Allyson has had a difficult childhood with parents that had no interest in raising a child. She doesn't understand what it means to be part of a family and thinks everyone will leave her in the end. She is interested in kink, but doesn't understand the life style. She only knows the dangerous play parties she used to attend and thinks people are only in it for sex. Zeke showed immense patience in waiting for Allyson to accept his offer of a date and to get to know him outside of work and the safe, sane and consensual side of the life.

Aside from the steamy, romantic side of the story, there was also the ethical part of their relationship in their respective careers. I loved how they were able to work together without blurred lines. I did feel the story was incomplete regarding the person sabotaging her records and work, which took away from the book.
1,416 reviews7 followers
December 3, 2021
This was generally a good read and it was easy to get into the story. I agree with another reviewer that the coworker subplot seemed unfinished-- when someone yells "I'll make you regret this!" you kinda expect there will be some major confrontation or something later in the book.

Zeke was patient while Allyson worked through her issues. However, while he wasn't quite condescending, he kept reinforcing that her experience was less than his because of the nature of the parties she attended. Generally speaking, it's rare that I read a book in this genre where the woman is more experienced than the man (rarer still that the woman is the dominant character in the bedroom).

Anyway, this book was a good addition to this series.

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Sassy Angel.
2,936 reviews
November 20, 2021
I loved this latest story by Marie Tuhart! I couldn't put it down. I loved the interactions between Allyson and Zeke. I have loved this series from the beginning and it keeps getting better and better.

Allyson and Zeke have known each other for years professionally. They have always had a good working relationship but they could be so much more. Zeke would like to get to know her better. Allyson has not had a good childhood and that left some deep scars. She agree to explore their feelings as long as it doesn't impact their professional relationship. There is something special going on between them but there are some road blocks. Will they be able work things out?

I received an ARC from the author/publisher for an honest review.
2,582 reviews27 followers
November 20, 2021
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "POSESSES" This was a great story written by Marie Tuhart so full of emotional turmoil, intrigue, angst, love, it hooks you from the very beginning.
Allyson Young had crapy life growing up feeling unloved, unwanted by the very people who should love her.
Zeke Riggs is a contactor who was told no twice Allyson but he doesn't give up she comes around thinking they could have a relationship find love until a dinner goes wrong she leaves before she destroys him.
I definitely recommend to this touching, interesting, captivating, heartwrenching story so well written with great characters will Zeke find Allyson, can they get a HEA you must get this book to see how it all turns out great read.
Profile Image for Elaine Swinney.
2,210 reviews7 followers
November 19, 2021
I was lucky enough to get an ARC Copy of this book and I voluntarily chose to review it. I am a Marie Tuhart fan this book met my expectations of a story from this author. This is a well written story with some great characters. This wasn't a quick easy read but once I started it I couldn't put it down. I encourage everyone to get this book it is worth your time and effort. There are twists and turns in this story. I don't do spoilers so you will need to get this book to find out what I am talking about. You will enjoy this one!!!!!
Profile Image for Romaine Heart.
2,337 reviews30 followers
November 23, 2021
Due to her past Allyson always felt unloved and unwanted. Something that made her do unthinkable things with her life until she promised her best friend she would never do it again.
Zeke was attracted to Allyson. Even though she turned him down twice he was still determined to have her.
When questions about her childhood arise she sets off to her old ways.
I didn't feel a connection between Zeke and Allyson. Not enough substance in the plot.
Thank you Hidden Gems and the author for a digital copy. Read and reviewed voluntarily and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own
Profile Image for Debbie Benson.
9,897 reviews33 followers
November 25, 2021
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy. Allyson carries scars from her childhood and it holds her back from what she needs. When Zeke pursues her, it allows her to have a chance but questioning from his family panics her. I really liked how Allyson evolved in this story and with help from Zeke and others finally begins to heal. Allyson and Zeke are a really nice couple who share several interests.
Profile Image for Sammye.
4,491 reviews30 followers
November 24, 2021
I enjoyed Zeke and Allyson’s story. Although this 5th book is the first of the series that I’ve read, I didn’t have a problem catching on the the storyline. I liked the characters and the plot was well developed. I liked how patient Zeke was with Allyson. I really enjoyed the book. *this honest review is based on a complimentary copy via HiddenGems*
Profile Image for Tammy.
9,119 reviews49 followers
November 26, 2021
Allyson doesn’t really believe in love and keeps her walls up so she won’t get hurt. When she meets Zeke, sparks fly and she finally gives him a chance. When she thinks she has a chance at love a family dinner tears it apart. Will Zeke be able to get her back? Fast-paced read with loads of drama, emotion and great chemistry. I liked it.
Profile Image for Angela.
3,578 reviews16 followers
November 27, 2021
Sometimes you have to take a chance, let all of your fears fall away, and hope that the one you want will stand beside you despite everything. For Allyson, her upbringing and her past have forced her into remaining single. Zeke's pursuit of her affections are beyond her understanding. Will she believe that she is worth the time and effort he patiently waits? Will she be scared off by his family?
Profile Image for Jessica Hawkins.
421 reviews5 followers
December 18, 2021
Probably my second favorite couple of the Wicked Sanctuary series. Possess brings us Allyson and Zeke, two people who’ve had their eyes on each other for years but are only just now making moves to get to know each other. As their relationship moves from professional to personal we see them uncover some secrets that have haunted them since childhood. It takes trust for them to overcome these hurdles and in the end they’re left with a wonderful partnership.

I really enjoyed this one. I’m not into the lifestyle but there’s been a book or two that haven’t felt too overwhelming in regards to kink. This book was one of those that was just really easy to get into. I really liked Allyson and Zeke’s story. I liked their working relationship a lot so it was nice to see their personal relationship grow. I also really liked seeing Allyson find someone who could give her a new outlook on this lifestyle, on life altogether actually. This was another great look into BDSM. Definitely worth a read.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
Profile Image for Mel ReadingWithMAC.
687 reviews18 followers
November 24, 2021
3.5 stars. The characters and plot felt a little less thought out than the previous book. A few spelling oops too, but those were mainly caught as they were distracting.

*I received an ARC from Hidden Gems. My review is my own.
Author 19 books3 followers
November 27, 2021
Oh that ending! I love this series and this book is no different! We see past couples and their businesses and finally get to know Zeke better. He's perfectly protective and tender- exactly what Allyson needed.

*I am leaving an honest and voluntary review after receiving this book as an arc.
2,949 reviews15 followers
January 16, 2022
I enjoyed this book a lot. Allyson and Zeke's story held my interest from beginning to end. They, like their friends, are likable characters with a lot of chemistry. I like the author's writing style and am looking forward to the next book of the series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Laurie Ryan.
Author 37 books106 followers
February 9, 2022
Another great installment in the Wicked Sanctuary series. I love the interactions between the characters, past and present. And Allyson is so good at keeping Zeke at arm’s length until she’s ready, much to his chagrin. When she finally lets him in, wow! These two are so good together.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews

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