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The Game #6
The Shepherd
I was fresh out of boot camp and somewhere in the desert when I started picturing what my life after the Marines would look like. I’d always wanted a big family and a place out in the sticks.
At forty-five, I could only scratch my head and wonder what the hell had happened. I knew I should be grateful. I had my farmhouse. Rescue dogs and chickens too. I had a rowdy bunch of nieces and nephews. I had amazing friends. I’d started a kink community with some of them. But it killed me to come home to an empty house at the end of the day. It hurt that nobody seemed to be interested in anything beyond pain sessions and casual playtime. Even my best friend Sloan pulled away from me. He was struggling to make ends meet with four kids, and I had a big house. They should move in with me, dammit.
I guess it made perfect sense that after so many years of wondering, waiting, and grumbling, a single week changed it all. My “the one who got away” showed up at a kink event, and Sloan shared a drunken confession that screwed with my head.
It was time to improvise, adapt, and…bring people home.
At forty-five, I could only scratch my head and wonder what the hell had happened. I knew I should be grateful. I had my farmhouse. Rescue dogs and chickens too. I had a rowdy bunch of nieces and nephews. I had amazing friends. I’d started a kink community with some of them. But it killed me to come home to an empty house at the end of the day. It hurt that nobody seemed to be interested in anything beyond pain sessions and casual playtime. Even my best friend Sloan pulled away from me. He was struggling to make ends meet with four kids, and I had a big house. They should move in with me, dammit.
I guess it made perfect sense that after so many years of wondering, waiting, and grumbling, a single week changed it all. My “the one who got away” showed up at a kink event, and Sloan shared a drunken confession that screwed with my head.
It was time to improvise, adapt, and…bring people home.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 10, 2022
236 people are currently reading
956 people want to read
About the author
Cara Dee
97 books4,099 followers
I'm often stoically silent or, if the topic interests me, a chronic rambler. In other words, I can discuss writing forever and ever. Fiction, in particular. The love story—while a huge draw and constantly present—is secondary for me, because there's so much more to writing romance fiction than just making two (or more) people fall in love and have hot sex. There's a world to build, characters to develop, interests to create, and a topic or two to research thoroughly. Every book is a challenge for me, an opportunity to learn something new, and a puzzle to piece together. I want my characters to come to life, and the only way I know to do that is to give them substance—passions, history, goals, quirks, and strong opinions—and to let them evolve. Additionally, I want my men and women to be relatable. That means allowing room for everyday problems and, for lack of a better word, flaws. My characters will never be perfect.
Wait…this was supposed to be about me, not my writing.
I'm a writey person who loves to write. Always wanderlusting, twitterpating, kinking, and geeking. There's time for hockey and cupcakes, too. But mostly, I just love to write.
I'm often stoically silent or, if the topic interests me, a chronic rambler. In other words, I can discuss writing forever and ever. Fiction, in particular. The love story—while a huge draw and constantly present—is secondary for me, because there's so much more to writing romance fiction than just making two (or more) people fall in love and have hot sex. There's a world to build, characters to develop, interests to create, and a topic or two to research thoroughly. Every book is a challenge for me, an opportunity to learn something new, and a puzzle to piece together. I want my characters to come to life, and the only way I know to do that is to give them substance—passions, history, goals, quirks, and strong opinions—and to let them evolve. Additionally, I want my men and women to be relatable. That means allowing room for everyday problems and, for lack of a better word, flaws. My characters will never be perfect.
Wait…this was supposed to be about me, not my writing.
I'm a writey person who loves to write. Always wanderlusting, twitterpating, kinking, and geeking. There's time for hockey and cupcakes, too. But mostly, I just love to write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
June 1, 2022
Well that was an absolute beauty of a book.
Cara's definitely putting out all the feels in this excellent series but I have to say, this is close to the top spot for me.
There's loads of layers to this narrative, from second chances, to best friends realising they're in love, to Master/slave dynamics and Daddy Doms needing to comfort lost Littles.
On top of that, there's found family as well as solid blood family support and there's some epic kink.
It's incandescently hot of course, there couldn't be any other way to describe the connection first between Greer and Archie and then later with Sloan too.
I'm dying for the next book now so we can see Corey's rescue continue and him find his place in this fabulous poly family.
Also I wanna know what's gonna happen with McLean House following the events late in this plot which ties into the timeline of Kingsley and Tate's reunion in book five.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Cara's definitely putting out all the feels in this excellent series but I have to say, this is close to the top spot for me.
There's loads of layers to this narrative, from second chances, to best friends realising they're in love, to Master/slave dynamics and Daddy Doms needing to comfort lost Littles.
On top of that, there's found family as well as solid blood family support and there's some epic kink.
It's incandescently hot of course, there couldn't be any other way to describe the connection first between Greer and Archie and then later with Sloan too.
I'm dying for the next book now so we can see Corey's rescue continue and him find his place in this fabulous poly family.
Also I wanna know what's gonna happen with McLean House following the events late in this plot which ties into the timeline of Kingsley and Tate's reunion in book five.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
July 11, 2022
Greer siempre ha sonado con tener una gran familia viviendo con el, siempre ha querido ninos, por eso cuando se retiro de los Marines se compro un rancho que estuvo remodelando hasta que logro todo lo que queria, pero ahora esta vacio y solo el vive ahi, por eso intenta pasar todo el tiempo que puede ocupado, ayudando a otros subs o a otros Doms, o en su trabajo, o ayudando en las actividades del club.
Pero su vida personal esta a punto de dar un giro, cuando reaparece en su vida el unico hombre con el que penso que podria tener mas. Archie ha estado intentando acercarse a el los ultimos 5 anos, asi que porque no intentarlo? Por que no intentar hacer realidad sus suenos?. Pero no solo Archie que regresa, sino tambien se da cuenta que tiene fuertes sentimientos hacia su mejor amigo Sloan, sera posible que los 3 puedan tener algun furturo juntos? Sera posible que Archie, Sloan, el y los ninos de ambos, puedan vivir con el su rancho? Sera posible compartir su tiempo entre sus hombres y sus actividades en Club y su trabajo?
Este libro es un poco mas diferente que los anteriores, porque aqui si te hace falta haber leido por lo menos el libro anterior para entender muchas de las intereacciones de Greer con otros personajes que se asumen en este libro. Tambien es el primero que queda en un semi-Cliffanger, y donde sabemos que la quimica entre los tres pronto sera una de cuatro. Y en otra cosa que es diferente, es que es un solo narrador, aqui solo vemos el punto de vista de Greer, no sabemos nada de Archie (que aparecio magicamente), ni mucho de Sloan (quien supongo que sera el narrador del proximo), asi que nos centramos mucho mas en la trama que en los diferentes cambios de direccion como en libros anteriores.
Ademas, este libro me resulto mucho mas solido en cuanto a la trama, me parecio mas fluida, sencilla y facil de seguir, y como muy poco drama, muy poco auto-descubriemiento, muy pocos conflictos, lo que lo hizo un libro mucho mas facil y rapido de leer.
Se que no es el ultimo de la serie, por lo menos deben faltar 2 libros mas, por lo mencionado por el autor, esperemos que no tarden mucho en salir para poder terminar la serie y ver que les depara a la casa Mclean y los juegos.
Pero su vida personal esta a punto de dar un giro, cuando reaparece en su vida el unico hombre con el que penso que podria tener mas. Archie ha estado intentando acercarse a el los ultimos 5 anos, asi que porque no intentarlo? Por que no intentar hacer realidad sus suenos?. Pero no solo Archie que regresa, sino tambien se da cuenta que tiene fuertes sentimientos hacia su mejor amigo Sloan, sera posible que los 3 puedan tener algun furturo juntos? Sera posible que Archie, Sloan, el y los ninos de ambos, puedan vivir con el su rancho? Sera posible compartir su tiempo entre sus hombres y sus actividades en Club y su trabajo?
Este libro es un poco mas diferente que los anteriores, porque aqui si te hace falta haber leido por lo menos el libro anterior para entender muchas de las intereacciones de Greer con otros personajes que se asumen en este libro. Tambien es el primero que queda en un semi-Cliffanger, y donde sabemos que la quimica entre los tres pronto sera una de cuatro. Y en otra cosa que es diferente, es que es un solo narrador, aqui solo vemos el punto de vista de Greer, no sabemos nada de Archie (que aparecio magicamente), ni mucho de Sloan (quien supongo que sera el narrador del proximo), asi que nos centramos mucho mas en la trama que en los diferentes cambios de direccion como en libros anteriores.
Ademas, este libro me resulto mucho mas solido en cuanto a la trama, me parecio mas fluida, sencilla y facil de seguir, y como muy poco drama, muy poco auto-descubriemiento, muy pocos conflictos, lo que lo hizo un libro mucho mas facil y rapido de leer.
Se que no es el ultimo de la serie, por lo menos deben faltar 2 libros mas, por lo mencionado por el autor, esperemos que no tarden mucho en salir para poder terminar la serie y ver que les depara a la casa Mclean y los juegos.
June 12, 2022
4.5 Stars
Loved loved loved it! I loved all the feels and chemistry and how they managed to find each other. Gah!
My heart is breaking for Corey and I'm looking forward to him getting his happy. I'm glad we only have a few weeks to wait.
Loved loved loved it! I loved all the feels and chemistry and how they managed to find each other. Gah!
My heart is breaking for Corey and I'm looking forward to him getting his happy. I'm glad we only have a few weeks to wait.
June 10, 2022
* 4.5 stars *
Another winner!
Greer, Sloan, and Archie come together to start something beautiful. Greer is the connecting factor between the other two but by the end of the book there were relationships and feelings developing between all three. I have to admit though, that, to me, they felt a little unbalanced. I'll expand on that later.
The story runs parallel to the events of Out Of The Ashes and it was interesting seeing everything from a different perspective. Plus, the big thing that happened at the end of the previous book, this time it's narrated by someone who was present, so we get to know a bit more about that.
I loved Greer and Sloan's relationship and how it evolved from platonic friendship to something more. I liked seeing the drunken scene from Out Of The Ashes again, this time from a different perspective and with context. I was hoping for more scenes between these two but the next book is the continuation of the story so maybe we'll get that there.
As for Archie, he was a very likable character. He knew what he wanted and wasn't afraid to go for it. He was confident, strong, and self-sufficient when he had to be. I liked that his core kinks didn't make him feel like he had to rely on anyone in order to achieve the things he wanted in life. He set goals and he took the necessary steps to achieve them, slow and steady.
As for the unbalanced relationships I mentioned earlier, to me, it didn't seem like a clear-cut relationship between all three. It was more like Greer in two relationships or even Greer with Archie as his primary partner and then Sloan as another relationship.
What made me think that were some conversations between Greer and Archie about important things for the future where they didn't include Sloan. Not so much in their plans, but more so in the conversation. They just had it between them when Sloan wasn't there and there was no discussion with him afterward either. So that added to my perception that Sloan was somehow less involved in the relationship. I could be wrong, and all that could be just that it's the beginning and they're still finding their dynamic, we'll see in the next book. I loved the story regardless of that.
And talking about the next book, Corey is going to enter the mix. He was still present here but he wasn't a part of the relationship yet. He was in the periphery and we saw the events that eventually lead to him connecting with these guys. I look forward to reading his story and seeing what's next for all four of them.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
Another winner!
Greer, Sloan, and Archie come together to start something beautiful. Greer is the connecting factor between the other two but by the end of the book there were relationships and feelings developing between all three. I have to admit though, that, to me, they felt a little unbalanced. I'll expand on that later.
The story runs parallel to the events of Out Of The Ashes and it was interesting seeing everything from a different perspective. Plus, the big thing that happened at the end of the previous book, this time it's narrated by someone who was present, so we get to know a bit more about that.
I loved Greer and Sloan's relationship and how it evolved from platonic friendship to something more. I liked seeing the drunken scene from Out Of The Ashes again, this time from a different perspective and with context. I was hoping for more scenes between these two but the next book is the continuation of the story so maybe we'll get that there.
As for Archie, he was a very likable character. He knew what he wanted and wasn't afraid to go for it. He was confident, strong, and self-sufficient when he had to be. I liked that his core kinks didn't make him feel like he had to rely on anyone in order to achieve the things he wanted in life. He set goals and he took the necessary steps to achieve them, slow and steady.
As for the unbalanced relationships I mentioned earlier, to me, it didn't seem like a clear-cut relationship between all three. It was more like Greer in two relationships or even Greer with Archie as his primary partner and then Sloan as another relationship.
What made me think that were some conversations between Greer and Archie about important things for the future where they didn't include Sloan. Not so much in their plans, but more so in the conversation. They just had it between them when Sloan wasn't there and there was no discussion with him afterward either. So that added to my perception that Sloan was somehow less involved in the relationship. I could be wrong, and all that could be just that it's the beginning and they're still finding their dynamic, we'll see in the next book. I loved the story regardless of that.
And talking about the next book, Corey is going to enter the mix. He was still present here but he wasn't a part of the relationship yet. He was in the periphery and we saw the events that eventually lead to him connecting with these guys. I look forward to reading his story and seeing what's next for all four of them.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
June 15, 2022
This story just didn't come together for me. It started off great and I know there's more to come but I can't feel the connection between the characters. One thing I love about Cara Dee is how she tells every story, even the hardcore BDSM ones, the ones I wouldn't have liked by another author, so naturally. I felt this was missing here.
June 11, 2022
3.5 stars
June 11, 2022
This book made me so happy!
It’s an amazing comfortable read, with humor, easygoing banter, high protocol M/s BDSM, and TPE dynamic. Add a long-time friend who’s now a lover and the circle of happiness is round.
At almost being forty-six, Greer wonders if he’ll ever find a slave/sub, he can call ‘his’. Greer is a steady man, taking care of people. He has a big house, made for family, he got rescue dogs, chickens, and regularly a family with a lot of kids around. I can admit, that Greer was everything, with an open house and heart.
Greer is a high-protocol Master, but first of all a beautiful warm soul. Meeting his one again, after five years, did him good, he’s silly in love.
Archie is super clear about what he wants, he wants to serve Greer, thoroughly, for now, and in the future, like forever.
“How were we ever going to get into a TPE dynamic if all we did was act uncontrollably sappy around each other?“
What a wonderful strong story. Full of life matters and it felt so real, honest, with ernst and humor.
“Your response to my next question will decide whether I put lube on the hook or VapoRub.”
There are so many feelings, be still my heart! The deep-rooted love, trust, and friendship were heartwarming.
The domestic servitude and TPE dynamic were stunning! What are a human's chances to find the one who wants the same and has the same dreams about life as you! Treasure it, it’s so precious, even more, when there are three!
And then, there’s also the story about Corey, sweet wounded Corey! We’ll get his story in the next installment!
I could highlight lines from every page! Fucking amazing story, period!
It’s an amazing comfortable read, with humor, easygoing banter, high protocol M/s BDSM, and TPE dynamic. Add a long-time friend who’s now a lover and the circle of happiness is round.
At almost being forty-six, Greer wonders if he’ll ever find a slave/sub, he can call ‘his’. Greer is a steady man, taking care of people. He has a big house, made for family, he got rescue dogs, chickens, and regularly a family with a lot of kids around. I can admit, that Greer was everything, with an open house and heart.
Greer is a high-protocol Master, but first of all a beautiful warm soul. Meeting his one again, after five years, did him good, he’s silly in love.
Archie is super clear about what he wants, he wants to serve Greer, thoroughly, for now, and in the future, like forever.
“How were we ever going to get into a TPE dynamic if all we did was act uncontrollably sappy around each other?“
What a wonderful strong story. Full of life matters and it felt so real, honest, with ernst and humor.
“Your response to my next question will decide whether I put lube on the hook or VapoRub.”
There are so many feelings, be still my heart! The deep-rooted love, trust, and friendship were heartwarming.
The domestic servitude and TPE dynamic were stunning! What are a human's chances to find the one who wants the same and has the same dreams about life as you! Treasure it, it’s so precious, even more, when there are three!
And then, there’s also the story about Corey, sweet wounded Corey! We’ll get his story in the next installment!
I could highlight lines from every page! Fucking amazing story, period!
May 30, 2022
Wow. What can I say except this series has evolved and I’m down for it.
Cara Dee upped the ante with this one. A complex, heartfelt, kinky coming together of a family where love is infinite. Sign me up for life.
I absolutely loved Greer, the bulldozer. He loves hard. And plays hard. He demands so much, and yet so little at the same time. His heart is so damn big and all his life he’s been preparing for his dreams to be fulfilled, and yet they haven’t been. Not really. Not until now.
Not until Archie comes back into his life and is the key that unlocks everything he’s ever wanted.
I couldn’t stop reading this. I found the entire dynamic so fascinating and beautiful, and so human.
And the way this story is weaved throughout the timeline of the last book was so good.
It’s safe to say I’m hanging out for book 7.
This is my voluntary honest review in return for complimentary ARC copy.
Cara Dee upped the ante with this one. A complex, heartfelt, kinky coming together of a family where love is infinite. Sign me up for life.
I absolutely loved Greer, the bulldozer. He loves hard. And plays hard. He demands so much, and yet so little at the same time. His heart is so damn big and all his life he’s been preparing for his dreams to be fulfilled, and yet they haven’t been. Not really. Not until now.
Not until Archie comes back into his life and is the key that unlocks everything he’s ever wanted.
I couldn’t stop reading this. I found the entire dynamic so fascinating and beautiful, and so human.
And the way this story is weaved throughout the timeline of the last book was so good.
It’s safe to say I’m hanging out for book 7.
This is my voluntary honest review in return for complimentary ARC copy.
August 15, 2023
Cara Dee just can't do anything wrong with this series. Thank you, Ms. Dee for another fantastic book in "The Games" series with these wonderful, kinky characters. We met Greer off and on in the first five books since the characters love wandering back and forth through each other's stories...which I love by the way. I always know where everyone is and what they're up to :) Greer is so filled with denial that he doesn't know where he will go from here. He rightfully feels that he's more of a family man. He's back from the military, but he's really lonely living alone on his farmland. He loves animals and owns a couple of dogs; the second floor of his house is decorated in hopes of having a bunch of kids at some point, but he's still all by himself. The main focus of this story is about Greer establishing this big, longed for, hopefully what will soon to be...his family....and meeting the love of his life, Archie. Greer is involved in the kink community, he doesn't mind playing in scenes, but he's looking for something long-term, something lasting and personal, somebody to be 24/7. We can see from the start that there's something going on with his friend Sloan...but Sloan is another story entirely...but we will get to see how well he fits with everyone. I love the way these characters are introduced. They're all so very different and all have entirely different personalities, but they all fit together perfectly, both as a single-family unit and as a larger "Club Family". At the beginning of Greer's story there is a prologue from 5 years ago that gives us a slight history of Greer. Throughout the "now time" story you run into old acquaintances from the previous books. Greer's nickname as "Shep" fits and describes him to a "T". Greer is a shepherd...a sheepherder of people...protecting and defending with his life, those that he loves. He loves Archie, he loves Sloan, and he loves the kids that Archie and Sloan have brought into his life and his heart. Archie is a really sweet guy and a caretaker, just what this unusual family dynamic needs. I loved how Archie interacts with the "family" that Greer and he have rapidly built...when Sloan and his kids finally join them at the farmhouse. This is a series that I certainly will read a second time and probably many more times after that.
September 28, 2022
I enjoyed reading about Greer, Archie & Sloan! The relationships are so cute, seeing the dynamics are awesome. I love how they handle the kids. The kink & sex is hot! Plus, holy shit the end. Omfg.
Can't wait to see how Corey makes this even better!
--The whole book was from Greer's POV. Though I'd definitely would have loved multiple Povs, it worked!
Can't wait to see how Corey makes this even better!
--The whole book was from Greer's POV. Though I'd definitely would have loved multiple Povs, it worked!
March 7, 2024
reread (3.5/5).
This book is kinda hard to rate, mainly because there was less kink compared to the other books of this series and definitely also because it was part one of two of Archie, Greer, Sloan and Corey’s story.
Okay, so, there was kink, plenty of it, but it was more subtle and the focus was more on the balance between family and kink and less on just the kink.
Domestic servitude and consensual slavery can be included in a daily basis without making it too obvious.
We did get a TPE scene but since it was more talking than showing I can’t really say how much I liked it.
Those kinks might not be my favourites out there but I do get the appeal and the few scenes between Archie and Greer were beautiful in its own way. The chemistry between them can’t be denied. Sparks were flying, dreams were coming true.
Really, there’s just no way I could deny their chemistry.
And then we have Sloan and Greer. The chemistry between them was at least as good as the one between Greer and Archie.
Only in the end did we get a glimpse into Corey’s life. I won’t get into it now since his story will be told in the next book. I just wanna say that he fits right into this relationship. There’s absolutely no doubt about it.
———
previous rating: 3/5.
All in all, this book was quite nice but there are a few things I didn’t enjoy.
First of all, Greer was a great character. I always enjoyed it when he appeared in the previous books.
I enjoyed Archie too I guess, but I didn’t like his submission much (I just didn’t enjoy the kink in general).
Then there was Sloan. We knew him already too from previous books but he just always seemed so random...
Now, I guess I can understand why those three found each other but the whole poly dynamic just didn’t work out nicely in my opinion.
But the feels and emotions were there, especially in the beginning.
I think this book had the most emotions and the least amount of kink (which means less spice) of all the books in this series so far. But I guess that has to do with the next book, which would be Corey’s story.
And that’s the thing about this one; it ran parallel to the last book, so there are many things we already knew would happen, and it kinda functioned as a prologue for the next book; all things that I honestly didn’t enjoy.
This book really doesn’t work as a standalone!
I enjoyed it, yes, but it had its faults. But at least I got really excited to read Corey’s book!
This book is kinda hard to rate, mainly because there was less kink compared to the other books of this series and definitely also because it was part one of two of Archie, Greer, Sloan and Corey’s story.
Okay, so, there was kink, plenty of it, but it was more subtle and the focus was more on the balance between family and kink and less on just the kink.
Domestic servitude and consensual slavery can be included in a daily basis without making it too obvious.
We did get a TPE scene but since it was more talking than showing I can’t really say how much I liked it.
Those kinks might not be my favourites out there but I do get the appeal and the few scenes between Archie and Greer were beautiful in its own way. The chemistry between them can’t be denied. Sparks were flying, dreams were coming true.
“You make me believe in our pipe dream, Archie. It’s what I will spend my days fighting for. You’re not slipping through my fingers again.”
Really, there’s just no way I could deny their chemistry.
“You like suffering for your Master?”
“When it comes to these things, absolutely.”
“Posture, behavior, manners, presentation—they have to be perfect. They’re a reflection of your ownership, and it’ll be a cold day in hell before I decide that good is good enough.”
And then we have Sloan and Greer. The chemistry between them was at least as good as the one between Greer and Archie.
“In the time you’ve been pushing me away, I’ve been trying to get closer. I’ve never made it a secret that you’re a big part of my life—of course I talk about you to others. I pretty much kidnapped you tonight. If that doesn’t scream I love you, I don’t know what does.”
Only in the end did we get a glimpse into Corey’s life. I won’t get into it now since his story will be told in the next book. I just wanna say that he fits right into this relationship. There’s absolutely no doubt about it.
———
previous rating: 3/5.
All in all, this book was quite nice but there are a few things I didn’t enjoy.
First of all, Greer was a great character. I always enjoyed it when he appeared in the previous books.
I enjoyed Archie too I guess, but I didn’t like his submission much (I just didn’t enjoy the kink in general).
Then there was Sloan. We knew him already too from previous books but he just always seemed so random...
Now, I guess I can understand why those three found each other but the whole poly dynamic just didn’t work out nicely in my opinion.
But the feels and emotions were there, especially in the beginning.
I think this book had the most emotions and the least amount of kink (which means less spice) of all the books in this series so far. But I guess that has to do with the next book, which would be Corey’s story.
And that’s the thing about this one; it ran parallel to the last book, so there are many things we already knew would happen, and it kinda functioned as a prologue for the next book; all things that I honestly didn’t enjoy.
This book really doesn’t work as a standalone!
I enjoyed it, yes, but it had its faults. But at least I got really excited to read Corey’s book!
July 22, 2024
I wanted to meet Greer so much and I couldn't be happier how everything turned out! 🥹🥹
I would've loved to see a bit more developing of Sloan and Archie's dynamic but I get it, the story is told from Greer's POV, so you won't see me crying over it. I just love their family and can't wait to see what else life has in store for them 💕
I would've loved to see a bit more developing of Sloan and Archie's dynamic but I get it, the story is told from Greer's POV, so you won't see me crying over it. I just love their family and can't wait to see what else life has in store for them 💕
August 27, 2025
This was the first book in the series with only one POV, which in hindsight should’ve been obvious by the title, which is Sloan’s nickname for Greer.
For the first time in this series, I struggled a bit with the POV character (Greer, one of the founding members of Mclean House), mostly because he’s very family-oriented and very kid-oriented. I mean, the guy wants a big family and people around, he adores kids, would love to have many of them and he’s kind-of-adopted his best friend’s four children as his own. It worked well for this story and characters, but that’s something with which I struggle to relate.
Enter Sloan, the best friend of 15 years who everybody in Greer’s life knows is more than that, but neither of them is willing to make the move to change the current status, even though Sloan’s been divorced for 3 years. So Greer is doing what he does best, push to help as much as he can with Sloan’s financial situation (by having him and the kids move into his big countryside house), while Sloan is resisting because he wants to make it on his own, even though he’s hanging by a thread.
Enter Archie, the guy with whom Greer had an insta-connection 5 years ago, before it all went to shit.
Archie’s return into Greer’s life is what sets things in motion for all of them and, while Greer is the common denominator, and by the end I wasn’t even bothered anymore by the less-palatable (to me) aspects (like , because it all fit the characters and it made perfect sense for them.
As a side note, in this book we get to see on page how , although it takes reaching the end of the book for that, because this story’s timeline overlaps a little with the previous book’s one.
For the first time in this series, I struggled a bit with the POV character (Greer, one of the founding members of Mclean House), mostly because he’s very family-oriented and very kid-oriented. I mean, the guy wants a big family and people around, he adores kids, would love to have many of them and he’s kind-of-adopted his best friend’s four children as his own. It worked well for this story and characters, but that’s something with which I struggle to relate.
Enter Sloan, the best friend of 15 years who everybody in Greer’s life knows is more than that, but neither of them is willing to make the move to change the current status, even though Sloan’s been divorced for 3 years. So Greer is doing what he does best, push to help as much as he can with Sloan’s financial situation (by having him and the kids move into his big countryside house), while Sloan is resisting because he wants to make it on his own, even though he’s hanging by a thread.
Enter Archie, the guy with whom Greer had an insta-connection 5 years ago, before it all went to shit.
Archie’s return into Greer’s life is what sets things in motion for all of them and, while Greer is the common denominator, and by the end I wasn’t even bothered anymore by the less-palatable (to me) aspects (like , because it all fit the characters and it made perfect sense for them.
As a side note, in this book we get to see on page how , although it takes reaching the end of the book for that, because this story’s timeline overlaps a little with the previous book’s one.
June 14, 2022
one of the best series out there
I’ll be honest and say that if I didn’t know there’d be a second book about these guys, I’d be driven insane by how much plot set up there is in this book. I needed more time with Sloan and Greer, definitely needed more time with Sloan and Archie, and definitely needed more time with the three of them together. And I needed more of their kink dynamic.
And we’ll get it. 🤷🏻 And I can’t wait. I absolutely love the unique relationship Greer has with both Archie and Sloan. I love the journey we took with them to finally be together. I love revisiting our family from other books. This series is just so damn good. Even when I’m not 100% happy with the book by the end, it’s still good because it’s Cara. I cannot wait for the next book.
I’ll be honest and say that if I didn’t know there’d be a second book about these guys, I’d be driven insane by how much plot set up there is in this book. I needed more time with Sloan and Greer, definitely needed more time with Sloan and Archie, and definitely needed more time with the three of them together. And I needed more of their kink dynamic.
And we’ll get it. 🤷🏻 And I can’t wait. I absolutely love the unique relationship Greer has with both Archie and Sloan. I love the journey we took with them to finally be together. I love revisiting our family from other books. This series is just so damn good. Even when I’m not 100% happy with the book by the end, it’s still good because it’s Cara. I cannot wait for the next book.
Read
June 15, 2022A bit conflicted of how to rate and review so RTC.
November 29, 2024
Why did i read this 5 months age version 6
Greer, Sloan and Archie; the trio dynamic that i never knew could actually exist¿
Ok thats it, there's not really many things that is especially mind blowing, i mean what do you expect in a bdsm book :/
Greer, Sloan and Archie; the trio dynamic that i never knew could actually exist¿
Ok thats it, there's not really many things that is especially mind blowing, i mean what do you expect in a bdsm book :/
July 4, 2022
RTC but I just enjoyed this book, so much. I loved the set up. I really really enjoy the dynamics between everyone. I really enjoyed the romance and the different connections between all of the characters. I liked how they all bonded together, even if it was in different ways. I just really appreciated how this book was done. And it was hot, which is always a bonus in my book.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
June 12, 2022
HOT Xs 3
This series keeps getting better and better. When I finished with one book, I’m in dire need for the next installment.
Brilliant storytelling. You are so invested in these characters. It was great to get Greer’s full backstory. Sloan was his perfect match but so was Archie. They each brought a piece of the puzzle to their dynamic. It really works perfectly for them. Exploring what a relationship can be is truly freeing for them.
This next book is going to be a continuation and it will be epic. I want book 7 now! Corey needs to heal and he’ll be safe with Greer, Sloan and Archie. I need to read it ASAP.
This series keeps getting better and better. When I finished with one book, I’m in dire need for the next installment.
Brilliant storytelling. You are so invested in these characters. It was great to get Greer’s full backstory. Sloan was his perfect match but so was Archie. They each brought a piece of the puzzle to their dynamic. It really works perfectly for them. Exploring what a relationship can be is truly freeing for them.
This next book is going to be a continuation and it will be epic. I want book 7 now! Corey needs to heal and he’ll be safe with Greer, Sloan and Archie. I need to read it ASAP.
November 28, 2023
I liked the characters in this book, especially Archie but I just got a bit bored at times. I liked the side drama with Corey and I’m interested to see where that leads.
This story just felt a bit disjointed like it had too many moving parts and didn’t flow very well.
This story just felt a bit disjointed like it had too many moving parts and didn’t flow very well.
May 30, 2022
Two best friends. The one who got away. A Master, a Daddy Dom, and a very willing servant.
This is the story of Greer, Sloan, and Archie. Three men who have dreams of love, kink, and family, but have all lost their way over the years.
Greer is a master without a boy. He’s got lots of friends, casual play dates and extended family, but none of his own. He once thought he had potential with an adorable man he met years ago, but when that went horribly wrong, he didn’t try again.
Archie has always known what he wants in life. Domestic servitude, children, TPE, and a master he loves. He’s managed to achieve some of his dreams on his own, but there’s still a major missing piece.
Sloan barely has time to sleep, let alone engage in dating or kinks. As a divorced dad of four, his plate is definitely full, but he’s feeling the strain more and more every day.
When two of these three men get together, there’s initial jealousy and sadness. But once they start meshing together, they discover that they don’t want a single partner, but a family.
This is the story of Greer, Sloan, and Archie. Three men who have dreams of love, kink, and family, but have all lost their way over the years.
Greer is a master without a boy. He’s got lots of friends, casual play dates and extended family, but none of his own. He once thought he had potential with an adorable man he met years ago, but when that went horribly wrong, he didn’t try again.
Archie has always known what he wants in life. Domestic servitude, children, TPE, and a master he loves. He’s managed to achieve some of his dreams on his own, but there’s still a major missing piece.
Sloan barely has time to sleep, let alone engage in dating or kinks. As a divorced dad of four, his plate is definitely full, but he’s feeling the strain more and more every day.
When two of these three men get together, there’s initial jealousy and sadness. But once they start meshing together, they discover that they don’t want a single partner, but a family.
March 14, 2023
hmmm this is difficult to review. i think i would've liked it more if it was shorter, but now i almosted dropped it at 70%. greer got weirdly on my nerve with his asshole-moves from time to time, and so did archie with being just a little bit too perfect for my liking. the only person i really loved was sloan, but we didn't get to see much of him. the story was just too kitschy, and that coming from someone who marvels in insta-love says a lot. too much perfection, too many things coming together so nicely, it made me itch. but maybe i'm just a huge grinch for people being happily in love lol.
October 1, 2022
Sloane is an angel and he deserves better.
Greere is such a disappointment lol his character got ruined because of his obsession with Archie the manipulative cheating pos. I have read alot of novels and Archie was one of the two most annoying useless people ever. I cannot stand him at all. A perfect couple got absolutely ruined by a forced dynamic with a cheating manipulative pos.
Greere is such a disappointment lol his character got ruined because of his obsession with Archie the manipulative cheating pos. I have read alot of novels and Archie was one of the two most annoying useless people ever. I cannot stand him at all. A perfect couple got absolutely ruined by a forced dynamic with a cheating manipulative pos.
June 13, 2022
YES.
YES.
YES.
I have been waiting for this book in what feels like an eternity. Cara Dee rarely misses and that was thankfully also the case this time. The Shepherd was so darn good and I'm overjoyed that she hasn't ended The Game Series yet because when that day arrives I'm gonna cry a River (HAHA pun intended).
So let's continue with the review and btw beware of spoilers because I'm not gonna censor anything.
I'm usually not that fond of TPE with slave/Owner dynamics because... well I don't really know it's just not my cup of tea. But Ms. Dee somehow made me not dislike it. I'm still not fully onboard with it but usually I hate it and here I mildly enjoyed it so... well done.
Greer was amazing and a bit broken because of his loveless life and lack of kids. Archie was so sweet and I loved his determination for everything. He didn't give up on what he wanted and was a great sub. Sloan was a bit naive and dumb but he came around. That plan he made with his ex-wife was just not his most intelligent moment and then them continuing with popping out kids didn't make anything better. I can't wait to see more of his Daddy Dom side in the next instalment.
One thing I really think could improve Cara Dee's books would be dual or multiple POV's. It feels like a missed opportunity of getting to know all the characters better. Especially when she has poly relationships it would really make us get to know the different characters better instead of just reading them from one of the MC's POV. I'm also personally a fan of multiple POV's because I like reading the switches in the different characters personalities.
I'm so sad that we missed the ginger root figging scene because that would have been epic. So we better get it in the next book or I'll be mad.
The only complaint I have about the story is the ending. It really just felt unnecessary and a bit overdramatic. Now we'll end up stressing the next book over what they are going to do with the house and all that. I also feel really bad for River, Reese, and especially Shay so the house better be fixed ASAP.
I love that there will be Daddy kink in the next instalment because the past few books have been lacking it a lot. It's also really great that before they introduce Corey to the relationship that Greer, Archie, and Sloan have a somewhat solid relationship between them so we won't have to stress between them all having to get to know each other in the next book. Because as much as I liked Doll Parts it could have been done a bit better and probably needed a second book to establish the relationships better.
This was great and I'm impatiently waiting for the next book.
YES.
YES.
I have been waiting for this book in what feels like an eternity. Cara Dee rarely misses and that was thankfully also the case this time. The Shepherd was so darn good and I'm overjoyed that she hasn't ended The Game Series yet because when that day arrives I'm gonna cry a River (HAHA pun intended).
So let's continue with the review and btw beware of spoilers because I'm not gonna censor anything.
I'm usually not that fond of TPE with slave/Owner dynamics because... well I don't really know it's just not my cup of tea. But Ms. Dee somehow made me not dislike it. I'm still not fully onboard with it but usually I hate it and here I mildly enjoyed it so... well done.
Greer was amazing and a bit broken because of his loveless life and lack of kids. Archie was so sweet and I loved his determination for everything. He didn't give up on what he wanted and was a great sub. Sloan was a bit naive and dumb but he came around. That plan he made with his ex-wife was just not his most intelligent moment and then them continuing with popping out kids didn't make anything better. I can't wait to see more of his Daddy Dom side in the next instalment.
One thing I really think could improve Cara Dee's books would be dual or multiple POV's. It feels like a missed opportunity of getting to know all the characters better. Especially when she has poly relationships it would really make us get to know the different characters better instead of just reading them from one of the MC's POV. I'm also personally a fan of multiple POV's because I like reading the switches in the different characters personalities.
I'm so sad that we missed the ginger root figging scene because that would have been epic. So we better get it in the next book or I'll be mad.
The only complaint I have about the story is the ending. It really just felt unnecessary and a bit overdramatic. Now we'll end up stressing the next book over what they are going to do with the house and all that. I also feel really bad for River, Reese, and especially Shay so the house better be fixed ASAP.
I love that there will be Daddy kink in the next instalment because the past few books have been lacking it a lot. It's also really great that before they introduce Corey to the relationship that Greer, Archie, and Sloan have a somewhat solid relationship between them so we won't have to stress between them all having to get to know each other in the next book. Because as much as I liked Doll Parts it could have been done a bit better and probably needed a second book to establish the relationships better.
This was great and I'm impatiently waiting for the next book.
January 21, 2025
5 ✨
I was kind of ready to give up on The Game series after Their Boy, but I’m so glad I gave this one a chance. This was so unexpectedly wonderful. I absolutely loved the relationships, the characters, and the way the story developed. There is so much to love about this book, and it really avoided so many of the things I didn’t like about Their Boy, despite dealing with many of the same themes and dynamics. Although I’m sad about the cliffhangers and devastated by the big event at the end of the book (will not mention it specifically to avoid potential spoilers), I don’t want to fault the book for doing a great job of investing me in the plot. And Cara Dee does really well at ending this book on a hopeful and even happy note, despite everything that is unresolved. I’m being very brave and mature! Onto the next book to (hopefully) get some resolutions!
I was kind of ready to give up on The Game series after Their Boy, but I’m so glad I gave this one a chance. This was so unexpectedly wonderful. I absolutely loved the relationships, the characters, and the way the story developed. There is so much to love about this book, and it really avoided so many of the things I didn’t like about Their Boy, despite dealing with many of the same themes and dynamics. Although I’m sad about the cliffhangers and devastated by the big event at the end of the book (will not mention it specifically to avoid potential spoilers), I don’t want to fault the book for doing a great job of investing me in the plot. And Cara Dee does really well at ending this book on a hopeful and even happy note, despite everything that is unresolved. I’m being very brave and mature! Onto the next book to (hopefully) get some resolutions!
June 12, 2022
I love this series
Another installment in The Game Series....another 5 stars to Cara Dee. I loved these characters so much and I've been looking forward to Greer's story for a long time. The dynamic between Greer, Sloan, and Archie is perfection. Archie may be one of my new favorite characters in this series. I loved the domestic service and TPE themes. Those two are kinks that highly interest me. I can't wait to see their story continue with Corey in the next installment.
Another installment in The Game Series....another 5 stars to Cara Dee. I loved these characters so much and I've been looking forward to Greer's story for a long time. The dynamic between Greer, Sloan, and Archie is perfection. Archie may be one of my new favorite characters in this series. I loved the domestic service and TPE themes. Those two are kinks that highly interest me. I can't wait to see their story continue with Corey in the next installment.
June 22, 2022
Book 6 of The Game Series did not disappoint!
Most of these books focus on different couples/groups but I would still recommend reading them in order unless there are certain kinks you really want to skip.
- BDSM Community
- Poly Family
- High Protocol TPE
- Second Chance Romance
This book occurs over the same timespan as book 5 so we get to see some of the events in that book from Greer’s perspective.
•
At forty-five, Greer has given up on his dreams of having children and a family of his own, he spends most of his time focused on spoiling his best friend Sloan’s four kids, and helping out at McClean House, the kink community he helped found.
His world is shaken up when the man he only had for one night, Archie, walks into a party at McClean House. He’s spent the last five years hating Archie after their fairy-tale meeting ended with hurt and betrayal.
Archie is determined to get his second chance with Greer, and as Sloan starts to feel his place in Greer’s life is threatened his true feelings creep to the surface.
With Archie’s support, Greer realizes he doesn’t have to choose, and he starts to hope that maybe he really can still have the life he dreamed of.
•
If you have questions about any triggers or kinks in this book check the warnings and feel free to ask in the comments or DM me before you read!
Most of these books focus on different couples/groups but I would still recommend reading them in order unless there are certain kinks you really want to skip.
- BDSM Community
- Poly Family
- High Protocol TPE
- Second Chance Romance
This book occurs over the same timespan as book 5 so we get to see some of the events in that book from Greer’s perspective.
•
At forty-five, Greer has given up on his dreams of having children and a family of his own, he spends most of his time focused on spoiling his best friend Sloan’s four kids, and helping out at McClean House, the kink community he helped found.
His world is shaken up when the man he only had for one night, Archie, walks into a party at McClean House. He’s spent the last five years hating Archie after their fairy-tale meeting ended with hurt and betrayal.
Archie is determined to get his second chance with Greer, and as Sloan starts to feel his place in Greer’s life is threatened his true feelings creep to the surface.
With Archie’s support, Greer realizes he doesn’t have to choose, and he starts to hope that maybe he really can still have the life he dreamed of.
•
If you have questions about any triggers or kinks in this book check the warnings and feel free to ask in the comments or DM me before you read!
June 10, 2022
Bighearted Greer loves the kink community he helped start, and is happy to see so many of his friends fall in love, but his loneliness is starting to get him down. He yearns for a big family like the one he grew up in. He wants to fill his big farmhouse with kids and animals and chaos and love. He keeps trying to convince his divorced best friend Sloan and his four children to move in with him, wanting to take some responsibility off Sloan’s shoulders and keep him close. When Greer reconnects with Archie, an old flame that never got a chance to really burn, he decides to put his past hurts aside and see where it could go. Archie’s reappearance in Greer’s life–along with a shit-ton of alcohol–provides the catalyst for Sloan to confess his feelings to Greer.
The story of these three men, told from Greer’s perspective, was truly beautiful. I have loved this world so much, and this story was a perfect addition to the series. So emotional, full of imperfect characters, life’s struggles, and so much love. I’m interested to see how these men balance their family life and their kink lifestyle, especially with Greer and Archie having a 24/7 TPE dynamic. It’s fascinating to see how the men in this series find their happiness when they have messy lives, past trauma, and kinks that don’t always perfectly align. I loved Greer, Archie, and Sloan and I can’t wait to read more of their story in the next book.
The story of these three men, told from Greer’s perspective, was truly beautiful. I have loved this world so much, and this story was a perfect addition to the series. So emotional, full of imperfect characters, life’s struggles, and so much love. I’m interested to see how these men balance their family life and their kink lifestyle, especially with Greer and Archie having a 24/7 TPE dynamic. It’s fascinating to see how the men in this series find their happiness when they have messy lives, past trauma, and kinks that don’t always perfectly align. I loved Greer, Archie, and Sloan and I can’t wait to read more of their story in the next book.
January 23, 2023
Note: This review is for books 6 and 7, the main arc of the Finlay foursome. The Shepherd is in Greer’s POV and starts with an extended prologue set five years before the rest of the book, while Adrift in the Embers is in Corey’s POV and picks up directly where book 6 left off (with some overlap of events), finishing with an epilogue set four years in the future. I rated The Shepherd 4 stars, and Adrift in the Embers 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5.
This series continues to surprise and delight me.
I have been reading it out of order, starting with Colt, Lucas, and Kit’s arc – books 1 (Lucas POV), 2 (Kit's POV), and 10 (Colt's POV with cameos from all the kinksters) – and then River, Reese, and Shay’s story (book 3, followed by a prologue novella featuring just River and Reese). I decided to dive into Greer’s arc next because he and his family feature prominently in book 10, and I was intrigued by their dynamic. And while this review covers two books, it really is one story. Book 6 focuses primarily on the establishment of Greer, Archie, and Sloan as a triad (kind of), while book 7 brings Corey into the fold and explores how all the relationships are developing and evolving as all the men get to know each other and their kinks and their dynamic better.
I read book 7 immediately on the heels of book 6, and realized it would be impossible to tease them out in my head enough to write separate reviews. As indicated by the star ratings, I savored book 7 a bit more, because that’s where we got a better sense of how the separate relationships between these men play out and fit together within the overarching foursome: Corey really is the missing piece that brings balance to the relationship and makes it a cohesive whole, rather than the “2 separate twosomes and a threesome-by-circumstance” situation that book 6 ends on. But I also thoroughly enjoyed Greer’s book; and of course, Corey’s book depends on the groundwork laid in Greer’s. (Seriously. While the series as a whole can be read according to which arc you want to focus on, although I would recommend starting with Colt-Lucas-Kit, the books that center on the same relationship must be read in order.)
First, a note about one of the main kinks featured here. Greer and Archie have a high-protocol master-slave dynamic. This is not a kink that does anything for me one way or the other; mostly, I found it interesting to see how it was approached and negotiated between the two of them. But be aware that they use titles (master/owner and slave) and that it is a lifestyle kink that goes beyond bedroom play. So if this is not in your comfort zone, it may be best to give this arc a miss.
That said -- I noted in my review of the series opener that, for a series that centers kink, there was surprisingly little of it on-page, and that it was an erotic romance that, if anything, was heavier on the romance than the erotic. That’s also the case in Greer’s book if you're talking about sexual play. Which is to say, a heads-up to those expecting/ hoping for lot of hot on-page sex: all good things to those who wait. There is hot on-page sex, but it is *trying and failing to come up with a less salacious term here* back-loaded in book 6. This is, if anything, a slow burn. We barely get anything more than a couple of make-out sessions before the halfway mark, and the threesome doesn’t come together until the last quarter of the book. Despite the implicit whininess of this paragraph, this is not actually a complaint – the sex scenes make narrative sense, they *again losing the battle against the double entendre* come when they have to. Consider this more in the interests of expectations management: if you are looking for pwp in book form, this is not the kinky romance for you. And while Corey’s book ups the frequency of the on-page sex in various configurations, that one, too, has less than you might expect under the heading of “kinky foursome”.
I guess what I’m saying is that these books are primarily process books. Which sounds incredibly dull. But what I mean by that is that they are mainly concerned with developing these relationships, separately and together, both the kinky and vanilla aspects. In Greer’s book, we get (in a long prologue) an absolutely wonderful, insta-oh-my-god-you-are-my-future first meeting between Greer and Archie; skip ahead five years to when they meet again – having clearly not been together in the intervening years – and they start hashing out what happened and how to move forward. And – parallel to this – Greer’s platonic relationship with his best friend (and divorced father of 4) Sloan, and the rut they’re stuck in: both are in love with the other, but too much in denial, too scared, and too stubborn to act on it.
Greer and Archie’s relationship starts first – barely – and, as much as they try to initially separate out the kink aspects from the love/ relationship aspect, it is pretty much full-steam ahead from the start. As noted above, Greer is a high-protocol dom and a sadist; Archie is into domestic servitude, consensual slavery, and total power exchange. Both are non-monogamous; in Archie’s case, this means that only Greer takes the role of master/ owner, but he is open to including others in a different configuration. So their kinks match up perfectly, which is obviously great but also a challenge in the context of a 24-7 lifestyle kink that has to be constantly and continuously negotiated in order to have meaningful consent, boundaries, and a healthy relationship. That’s what I mean by process: the communication and the discussion of how to ensure that both parties’ needs and desires are met is all the more important in a master-slave kink dynamic (a potentially exploitative, abusive arrangement) in the context of a new, but immediately very serious, romantic relationship.
Sloan enters into the dynamic very shortly after Archie, with Archie’s full consent: Archie is aware of Sloan’s importance to Greer, and is in fact pushing for Greer to drop the pretense of not being full-on in love with his best friend. Indeed, for all that he’s a sub and the slave, Archie is very much the initiative-taker in all of these relationships: he’s the one that seeks out Greer again, he’s the one that gives Greer permission to accept his feelings for Sloan, and he’s the one that takes the lead with Corey and plots out how to convince the two doms that their dynamic should expand. It’s a lovely inversion of expectations about the power relationship between doms and subs: while Archie finds fulfillment in domestic servitude, he does not cede all decisions or control or agency to Greer.
That said, it’s . . . kind of a weird dynamic in book 6? Without going into details, the progression of Sloan’s romantic relationship with Greer happens extremely quickly – much as Greer and Archie’s relationship went at warp speed when they reconnected – and so the dynamic is very much Greer-Archie and Greer-Sloan, and meanwhile Sloan and Archie, while accepting the other’s inclusion, are basically strangers to each other. It's not a triad in the sense of an established relationship taking in a new person, or three people developing a triad together over time, but two separate, new relationships with one person at the center, and then a sort of “I guess we have to figure this out” approach to how the other two relate to each other. This is why I wrote above that it’s a triad (kind of); because the relationship between Sloan and Archie is initially non-existent, it feels more lopsided than a triad should. It’s not bad – and again, there is communication and transparency throughout – just a totally different kind of relationship than what I’ve read before. And of course, with the kids, there is another level: two of Sloan’s kids are old enough to twig to relationship dynamics, so Sloan keeps up the pretense of just being Greer’s friend while Archie and Greer are the “official” relationship (though restricting the titles and more obvious aspects of m/s to when the kids aren’t around).
This is why Corey’s inclusion in book 7 is so important. Corey is in the process of escaping from an emotionally abusive relationship, and takes refuge with the triad. Sloan is a daddy dom; his core kink is essentially homeless in the original threesome. Corey is a sub, a masochist, and a little. He connects with Sloan as a daddy, fulfilling that core need for both of them; he connects with Greer’s sadist dom side; and he connects with Archie as a fellow sub. He also, eventually, slides into the role as “official” partner for Sloan in front of the kids, even though all four men share a dynamic and are in a relationship. Archie may be the initiative-taker, but Corey is the one that closes the circle. Meaning that, while Greer starts off at the center of all these relationships – and is, in many ways, the head of the family, although Sloan will always be the primary parent to his own kids – it is the two subs that most effectively bind it together.
What I love about this series is how it models communication, consent, boundaries, honesty, and community. Of course, it is idealized -- once they decide to get together, there is seemingly no jealousy or misunderstandings between the men, they're all hot and hot for each other at all times, and they all go from 0 to 100 at turbo speed. That said, Corey's previous relationship is a depiction of how kink can be used to hide or excuse toxic and abusive power relations, so there is at least an acknowledgement that it's not all unicorns shitting rainbows.
Obviously the Game series will not be for everyone: there is hardcore daddy-little stuff including regression (Kit with Lucas and Colt; Corey with Sloan), masochism including pretty extreme pain play (Shay, Corey, and Kit to a lesser extent); twincest (Reese and River); master-slave (Greer and Archie); sadism (Colt, Greer and others); huge age gaps; and dynamics of 3 and 4, many of which also include sexual play with friends outside the dynamic. And that’s just in the ones I’ve read. Kit and Shay also have traumatic backstories involving sudden deaths of immediate family. (Corey is also written as autistic, and I can’t really speak to that rep.) So there’s a lot going on, and for some people it will be way too much, while other people might find it too heavy on the process/ relationship stuff and not enough on-page kinky sexy fun-times.
But if you’re open to a series that explores how kink and vanilla life collide and play out in relationships, and that gives equal weight to both, then this is definitely worth your time.
This series continues to surprise and delight me.
I have been reading it out of order, starting with Colt, Lucas, and Kit’s arc – books 1 (Lucas POV), 2 (Kit's POV), and 10 (Colt's POV with cameos from all the kinksters) – and then River, Reese, and Shay’s story (book 3, followed by a prologue novella featuring just River and Reese). I decided to dive into Greer’s arc next because he and his family feature prominently in book 10, and I was intrigued by their dynamic. And while this review covers two books, it really is one story. Book 6 focuses primarily on the establishment of Greer, Archie, and Sloan as a triad (kind of), while book 7 brings Corey into the fold and explores how all the relationships are developing and evolving as all the men get to know each other and their kinks and their dynamic better.
I read book 7 immediately on the heels of book 6, and realized it would be impossible to tease them out in my head enough to write separate reviews. As indicated by the star ratings, I savored book 7 a bit more, because that’s where we got a better sense of how the separate relationships between these men play out and fit together within the overarching foursome: Corey really is the missing piece that brings balance to the relationship and makes it a cohesive whole, rather than the “2 separate twosomes and a threesome-by-circumstance” situation that book 6 ends on. But I also thoroughly enjoyed Greer’s book; and of course, Corey’s book depends on the groundwork laid in Greer’s. (Seriously. While the series as a whole can be read according to which arc you want to focus on, although I would recommend starting with Colt-Lucas-Kit, the books that center on the same relationship must be read in order.)
First, a note about one of the main kinks featured here. Greer and Archie have a high-protocol master-slave dynamic. This is not a kink that does anything for me one way or the other; mostly, I found it interesting to see how it was approached and negotiated between the two of them. But be aware that they use titles (master/owner and slave) and that it is a lifestyle kink that goes beyond bedroom play. So if this is not in your comfort zone, it may be best to give this arc a miss.
That said -- I noted in my review of the series opener that, for a series that centers kink, there was surprisingly little of it on-page, and that it was an erotic romance that, if anything, was heavier on the romance than the erotic. That’s also the case in Greer’s book if you're talking about sexual play. Which is to say, a heads-up to those expecting/ hoping for lot of hot on-page sex: all good things to those who wait. There is hot on-page sex, but it is *trying and failing to come up with a less salacious term here* back-loaded in book 6. This is, if anything, a slow burn. We barely get anything more than a couple of make-out sessions before the halfway mark, and the threesome doesn’t come together until the last quarter of the book. Despite the implicit whininess of this paragraph, this is not actually a complaint – the sex scenes make narrative sense, they *again losing the battle against the double entendre* come when they have to. Consider this more in the interests of expectations management: if you are looking for pwp in book form, this is not the kinky romance for you. And while Corey’s book ups the frequency of the on-page sex in various configurations, that one, too, has less than you might expect under the heading of “kinky foursome”.
I guess what I’m saying is that these books are primarily process books. Which sounds incredibly dull. But what I mean by that is that they are mainly concerned with developing these relationships, separately and together, both the kinky and vanilla aspects. In Greer’s book, we get (in a long prologue) an absolutely wonderful, insta-oh-my-god-you-are-my-future first meeting between Greer and Archie; skip ahead five years to when they meet again – having clearly not been together in the intervening years – and they start hashing out what happened and how to move forward. And – parallel to this – Greer’s platonic relationship with his best friend (and divorced father of 4) Sloan, and the rut they’re stuck in: both are in love with the other, but too much in denial, too scared, and too stubborn to act on it.
Greer and Archie’s relationship starts first – barely – and, as much as they try to initially separate out the kink aspects from the love/ relationship aspect, it is pretty much full-steam ahead from the start. As noted above, Greer is a high-protocol dom and a sadist; Archie is into domestic servitude, consensual slavery, and total power exchange. Both are non-monogamous; in Archie’s case, this means that only Greer takes the role of master/ owner, but he is open to including others in a different configuration. So their kinks match up perfectly, which is obviously great but also a challenge in the context of a 24-7 lifestyle kink that has to be constantly and continuously negotiated in order to have meaningful consent, boundaries, and a healthy relationship. That’s what I mean by process: the communication and the discussion of how to ensure that both parties’ needs and desires are met is all the more important in a master-slave kink dynamic (a potentially exploitative, abusive arrangement) in the context of a new, but immediately very serious, romantic relationship.
Sloan enters into the dynamic very shortly after Archie, with Archie’s full consent: Archie is aware of Sloan’s importance to Greer, and is in fact pushing for Greer to drop the pretense of not being full-on in love with his best friend. Indeed, for all that he’s a sub and the slave, Archie is very much the initiative-taker in all of these relationships: he’s the one that seeks out Greer again, he’s the one that gives Greer permission to accept his feelings for Sloan, and he’s the one that takes the lead with Corey and plots out how to convince the two doms that their dynamic should expand. It’s a lovely inversion of expectations about the power relationship between doms and subs: while Archie finds fulfillment in domestic servitude, he does not cede all decisions or control or agency to Greer.
That said, it’s . . . kind of a weird dynamic in book 6? Without going into details, the progression of Sloan’s romantic relationship with Greer happens extremely quickly – much as Greer and Archie’s relationship went at warp speed when they reconnected – and so the dynamic is very much Greer-Archie and Greer-Sloan, and meanwhile Sloan and Archie, while accepting the other’s inclusion, are basically strangers to each other. It's not a triad in the sense of an established relationship taking in a new person, or three people developing a triad together over time, but two separate, new relationships with one person at the center, and then a sort of “I guess we have to figure this out” approach to how the other two relate to each other. This is why I wrote above that it’s a triad (kind of); because the relationship between Sloan and Archie is initially non-existent, it feels more lopsided than a triad should. It’s not bad – and again, there is communication and transparency throughout – just a totally different kind of relationship than what I’ve read before. And of course, with the kids, there is another level: two of Sloan’s kids are old enough to twig to relationship dynamics, so Sloan keeps up the pretense of just being Greer’s friend while Archie and Greer are the “official” relationship (though restricting the titles and more obvious aspects of m/s to when the kids aren’t around).
This is why Corey’s inclusion in book 7 is so important. Corey is in the process of escaping from an emotionally abusive relationship, and takes refuge with the triad. Sloan is a daddy dom; his core kink is essentially homeless in the original threesome. Corey is a sub, a masochist, and a little. He connects with Sloan as a daddy, fulfilling that core need for both of them; he connects with Greer’s sadist dom side; and he connects with Archie as a fellow sub. He also, eventually, slides into the role as “official” partner for Sloan in front of the kids, even though all four men share a dynamic and are in a relationship. Archie may be the initiative-taker, but Corey is the one that closes the circle. Meaning that, while Greer starts off at the center of all these relationships – and is, in many ways, the head of the family, although Sloan will always be the primary parent to his own kids – it is the two subs that most effectively bind it together.
What I love about this series is how it models communication, consent, boundaries, honesty, and community. Of course, it is idealized -- once they decide to get together, there is seemingly no jealousy or misunderstandings between the men, they're all hot and hot for each other at all times, and they all go from 0 to 100 at turbo speed. That said, Corey's previous relationship is a depiction of how kink can be used to hide or excuse toxic and abusive power relations, so there is at least an acknowledgement that it's not all unicorns shitting rainbows.
Obviously the Game series will not be for everyone: there is hardcore daddy-little stuff including regression (Kit with Lucas and Colt; Corey with Sloan), masochism including pretty extreme pain play (Shay, Corey, and Kit to a lesser extent); twincest (Reese and River); master-slave (Greer and Archie); sadism (Colt, Greer and others); huge age gaps; and dynamics of 3 and 4, many of which also include sexual play with friends outside the dynamic. And that’s just in the ones I’ve read. Kit and Shay also have traumatic backstories involving sudden deaths of immediate family. (Corey is also written as autistic, and I can’t really speak to that rep.) So there’s a lot going on, and for some people it will be way too much, while other people might find it too heavy on the process/ relationship stuff and not enough on-page kinky sexy fun-times.
But if you’re open to a series that explores how kink and vanilla life collide and play out in relationships, and that gives equal weight to both, then this is definitely worth your time.
September 1, 2022
I’m still reading this series because I love Cara Dee’s writing. Usually. But this series is coming up with more misses than hits for me.
It starts off great - lots of background on Greer. When he meets Archie there’s depth and detail. I kinda missed that there was a five year gap but ok I probably unintentionally skimmed that part.
Greer and Sloan start out interesting as friends. No hint of romance written between them. But plenty told to us by Greer’s relatives.
Archie returning and the flashback of his and Greer’s only encounter was good storytelling. Then BAM they’re back together.
Sloan gets drunk then BAM he wants to bottom for Greer. Sloan and his brood move in. Then BAM again with Archie and Sloan falling for each other.
Cara Dee writes good soapy drama. I don’t know why she doesn’t in this series.
Everything happens in Greer’s head. We don’t see Sloan and Archie’s romantic relationship develop. Or Greer and Archie’s or Greer and Sloan’s really.
There isn’t any drama in this poly relationship. No jealousy to work through. Everyone just instantly falls in love and is ready to share.
There’s also a lot of driving here and there with details that I didn’t care about.
The three stars are for Greer and Archie’s meet cute. And for the flashbacks of that encounter after Archie returns.
These relationships continue in the next book with a Little. 🤔😧
It starts off great - lots of background on Greer. When he meets Archie there’s depth and detail. I kinda missed that there was a five year gap but ok I probably unintentionally skimmed that part.
Greer and Sloan start out interesting as friends. No hint of romance written between them. But plenty told to us by Greer’s relatives.
Archie returning and the flashback of his and Greer’s only encounter was good storytelling. Then BAM they’re back together.
Sloan gets drunk then BAM he wants to bottom for Greer. Sloan and his brood move in. Then BAM again with Archie and Sloan falling for each other.
Cara Dee writes good soapy drama. I don’t know why she doesn’t in this series.
Everything happens in Greer’s head. We don’t see Sloan and Archie’s romantic relationship develop. Or Greer and Archie’s or Greer and Sloan’s really.
There isn’t any drama in this poly relationship. No jealousy to work through. Everyone just instantly falls in love and is ready to share.
There’s also a lot of driving here and there with details that I didn’t care about.
The three stars are for Greer and Archie’s meet cute. And for the flashbacks of that encounter after Archie returns.
These relationships continue in the next book with a Little. 🤔😧
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2024
i loved all the other books in the series and when i found out that this one was coming out, i marked the date on my calendar and started reading it as soon as i could.
unfortunately, this was my least favorite of the series. it was so underwhelming compared to the other books and it was just missing something. at some point, things moved way too fast and at another, too slow. i think the biggest issue had to do with the way this book connected characters. specific characters had chemistry with other specific characters, but i feel like the whole MMM relationship wasn’t developed at all.
i also didn’t understand why a side character got so much attention in the book, not that i didn’t like him, until i realized there is a whole other book about all four of them coming out soon. i’m hoping this next book will focus more about how all four of them come together as a whole.
ps: this was still a solid read, i was just really disappointed because i LOVED all the other books in the series. i think it also has to do with a fact that there is no new “game” in this one
1st reread: 3 🌟 i have the same thoughts as before but i guess now i feel more attached to all the characters. it also helped a lot rereading all the previous series and not having to guess who everyone was!
unfortunately, this was my least favorite of the series. it was so underwhelming compared to the other books and it was just missing something. at some point, things moved way too fast and at another, too slow. i think the biggest issue had to do with the way this book connected characters. specific characters had chemistry with other specific characters, but i feel like the whole MMM relationship wasn’t developed at all.
i also didn’t understand why a side character got so much attention in the book, not that i didn’t like him, until i realized there is a whole other book about all four of them coming out soon. i’m hoping this next book will focus more about how all four of them come together as a whole.
ps: this was still a solid read, i was just really disappointed because i LOVED all the other books in the series. i think it also has to do with a fact that there is no new “game” in this one
1st reread: 3 🌟 i have the same thoughts as before but i guess now i feel more attached to all the characters. it also helped a lot rereading all the previous series and not having to guess who everyone was!
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