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AnchorX
Ashes of Sin and Stardust
"I will destroy you."
I have searched for her for over half my life. Every night, I see her face in my dreams. Every morning, I wake to those words seared into my mind. She'll be my everything, the thing I've been searching for, the thing to complete me. The one who will choose to sit at my feet and serve me... the one I will never let go.
But when I find her...
She's a smart-mouthed, annoying, obnoxious little brat. Alice Benson is nothing but snark, chaos, and glitter, all rolled up into a tattooed curvy little body made to drive me to sin.
As hard as I try to avoid her, I can't get her out of my head. I can't stop watching her. I can't stop wanting her.
But when she finally opens up to me... I realize destruction never tasted so sweet.
This is an interconnected standalone in the AnchorX series. It takes place after Let's Play a Game.
I have searched for her for over half my life. Every night, I see her face in my dreams. Every morning, I wake to those words seared into my mind. She'll be my everything, the thing I've been searching for, the thing to complete me. The one who will choose to sit at my feet and serve me... the one I will never let go.
But when I find her...
She's a smart-mouthed, annoying, obnoxious little brat. Alice Benson is nothing but snark, chaos, and glitter, all rolled up into a tattooed curvy little body made to drive me to sin.
As hard as I try to avoid her, I can't get her out of my head. I can't stop watching her. I can't stop wanting her.
But when she finally opens up to me... I realize destruction never tasted so sweet.
This is an interconnected standalone in the AnchorX series. It takes place after Let's Play a Game.
815 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2022
112 people are currently reading
3871 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay Murray
15 books188 followersLindsay is a bratty goblin who thrives on chaos, coffee, and astronomical amounts of chocolate. When she isn't caught up living in the world in her head, you can find her at one of her favorite bottle shops, a local craft store, or planning her next vacation to the mountains.
She lives in Raleigh, North Carolina, with her husband and cat. (And her twenty-seven imaginary friends.)
She lives in Raleigh, North Carolina, with her husband and cat. (And her twenty-seven imaginary friends.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
May 28, 2022
Finding Ashes of Sin and Stardust,formerly known as How To Tame A Brat, on Goodreads with the request for ARC readers was my lucky day.
The blurb drew me in,and after i contacted Lindsay Murray to ask for a copy,she replied with a resounding yes.
An honest review is going to be easy,even if it were a staggering 936 pages….
I LOVED EVERY SECOND!!
Yes,it has triggers. It deals with abuse. It deals with loss. It also deals with issues like Borderline Personality Disorder. It hurts like hell sometimes.
But there’s beauty in it,too. Of good people that help the abused. Of a community that’s solid and will do everything to help.
And a man that’s determined to make the girl he’s searched for most of his life shine.
To give his little monster the life she deserves and make sure she stays…even if she’s determined to sabotage the very thing she wants,too…
Reuben has had a dream for most of his life,and it’s about his sub.
The one that’s going to be his,all he needs to do is find her.
His friends know about his dream sub,he’s described her often enough.
But when he finds her,he’s shocked….because she’s a damn brat!
Not only that,she knows a lot of his friends…..but they never told him they knew her!
Knowing what he went through after losing his sub Robin,maybe they thought he wasn’t ready?
But they all KNEW he was looking for her…right?
And hearing what she went through made it even worse….
How could he convince his little bug he really wanted her,and not just temporarily?
Without losing his mind?
Alice has had a rough life,and not just because her little sister Scarlett died because she didn’t keep an eye on her….
She suffers from BPD and ADHD,ánd she has bad luck with men!
Her father ….i have no words for that man….and i don’t blame her for running away from home,at all!
The first man took advantage in a bad way,but she was lucky when an older man saved her by taking her in.
He made sure she got a good education and she was happy with him,until his health got really bad,and he sent her away to live her own life….
She struggled to find ways to deal with everyday life,and Peter Woodrow took advantage.
In the worst way…
Until her friends saved her,and she found a sanctuary at the Cullowhee clubhouse.
Where she met a stuffy,know-it-all Dom,called Reuben,who changed her life….
The journey Alice and Reuben had to go through before they found eachother was heartbreaking.
The road they followed together was riddled with potholes,but Reuben was prepared to do anything to steer them in the right direction.
His inner Beast had been in hiding for years because it frightened most subs,not to mention all those poor girls he and his friends rescued from their abusers.
But Alice….she needed his Beast.
Not only that,she encouraged it to come out and play….
Reuben may have been worried he might break her,but he was só careful with her.
He may have enjoyed hurting her,but he never harmed her.
He listened to her,took her fears seriously,and pushed her to do better.
She blossomed under his care,and he loved it….loved her.
But was she ready for that?
More importantly,was she brave enough to admit she loved her Bear,too?
And then the past came back with a vengeance…..
This story….i lived in this story….i laughed,i cried,i cursed and i cheered.
I couldn’t wait to hear more….and more…and….then i reached the last page….
But i wasn’t ready for it to end!!!
The blurb drew me in,and after i contacted Lindsay Murray to ask for a copy,she replied with a resounding yes.
An honest review is going to be easy,even if it were a staggering 936 pages….
I LOVED EVERY SECOND!!
Yes,it has triggers. It deals with abuse. It deals with loss. It also deals with issues like Borderline Personality Disorder. It hurts like hell sometimes.
But there’s beauty in it,too. Of good people that help the abused. Of a community that’s solid and will do everything to help.
And a man that’s determined to make the girl he’s searched for most of his life shine.
To give his little monster the life she deserves and make sure she stays…even if she’s determined to sabotage the very thing she wants,too…
Reuben has had a dream for most of his life,and it’s about his sub.
The one that’s going to be his,all he needs to do is find her.
His friends know about his dream sub,he’s described her often enough.
But when he finds her,he’s shocked….because she’s a damn brat!
Not only that,she knows a lot of his friends…..but they never told him they knew her!
Knowing what he went through after losing his sub Robin,maybe they thought he wasn’t ready?
But they all KNEW he was looking for her…right?
And hearing what she went through made it even worse….
How could he convince his little bug he really wanted her,and not just temporarily?
Without losing his mind?
Alice has had a rough life,and not just because her little sister Scarlett died because she didn’t keep an eye on her….
She suffers from BPD and ADHD,ánd she has bad luck with men!
Her father ….i have no words for that man….and i don’t blame her for running away from home,at all!
The first man took advantage in a bad way,but she was lucky when an older man saved her by taking her in.
He made sure she got a good education and she was happy with him,until his health got really bad,and he sent her away to live her own life….
She struggled to find ways to deal with everyday life,and Peter Woodrow took advantage.
In the worst way…
Until her friends saved her,and she found a sanctuary at the Cullowhee clubhouse.
Where she met a stuffy,know-it-all Dom,called Reuben,who changed her life….
The journey Alice and Reuben had to go through before they found eachother was heartbreaking.
The road they followed together was riddled with potholes,but Reuben was prepared to do anything to steer them in the right direction.
His inner Beast had been in hiding for years because it frightened most subs,not to mention all those poor girls he and his friends rescued from their abusers.
But Alice….she needed his Beast.
Not only that,she encouraged it to come out and play….
Reuben may have been worried he might break her,but he was só careful with her.
He may have enjoyed hurting her,but he never harmed her.
He listened to her,took her fears seriously,and pushed her to do better.
She blossomed under his care,and he loved it….loved her.
But was she ready for that?
More importantly,was she brave enough to admit she loved her Bear,too?
And then the past came back with a vengeance…..
This story….i lived in this story….i laughed,i cried,i cursed and i cheered.
I couldn’t wait to hear more….and more…and….then i reached the last page….
But i wasn’t ready for it to end!!!
June 7, 2022
What a brilliant book.
Alice and Rueben are great characters.
Such a sense of reality.
Lindsay has written a brutal and honest BDSM book to confront everyone who reads this.
Not for the faint hearted but a truly great read.
There is a need and an ache in Alice.
There is a need and an ache in Rueben.
What a brilliant combination.
Great plot.
Great characters!
Terrific plot development and beautiful character development!
Five white hot pulsing shooting stars!🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Alice and Rueben are great characters.
Such a sense of reality.
Lindsay has written a brutal and honest BDSM book to confront everyone who reads this.
Not for the faint hearted but a truly great read.
There is a need and an ache in Alice.
There is a need and an ache in Rueben.
What a brilliant combination.
Great plot.
Great characters!
Terrific plot development and beautiful character development!
Five white hot pulsing shooting stars!🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
May 17, 2022
Completely unfulfilling
98% That's when they finally have sex. This book is 1135 pages. They do the same stuff over and over and over again it loses its impact- pun intended. I was so bored by the BDSM scenes by the halfway point. Oh, he's whipping her again. OK. Oh, another toy, because he refuses to use his own body because he's Christian, ok. Another toy? Oh, that's the same toy from the last chapter. OK.
98% That's when they finally have sex. This book is 1135 pages. They do the same stuff over and over and over again it loses its impact- pun intended. I was so bored by the BDSM scenes by the halfway point. Oh, he's whipping her again. OK. Oh, another toy, because he refuses to use his own body because he's Christian, ok. Another toy? Oh, that's the same toy from the last chapter. OK.
July 4, 2022
3.5 stars
I loved how this book talked about the struggles of mental illness. I feel like you don’t see that enough.
Reuben and Alice definitely balance each other. He doesn’t stop at anything to help with her episodes and finding ways to help with the trauma. Mix that in with a little dom and brat action and you have a winner! It kind of makes me want to find a daddy.
I needed more at the ending. I’m not going to say what I needed more of because it’s kind of a spoiler!
This book does have a ton of triggers throughout the 1000 pages so please read through the list the author gives in the beginning. Mental health is wealth my friends.
I loved how this book talked about the struggles of mental illness. I feel like you don’t see that enough.
Reuben and Alice definitely balance each other. He doesn’t stop at anything to help with her episodes and finding ways to help with the trauma. Mix that in with a little dom and brat action and you have a winner! It kind of makes me want to find a daddy.
I needed more at the ending. I’m not going to say what I needed more of because it’s kind of a spoiler!
This book does have a ton of triggers throughout the 1000 pages so please read through the list the author gives in the beginning. Mental health is wealth my friends.
August 22, 2022
3 Stars
What happens when you finally find the woman of you dreams, only to find she’s a complete brat? Reuben’s dominant streak is about to be tested like never before, but he is determined to tame, and train, this little brat. Alice has wanted a good Dom for what seems like forever, only to be disappointed time and again. Will Reuben finally fill the void in her life, and be the one she can trust to break her in all the right ways?
Ashes of Sin and Stardust is an AnchorX novel by Lindsay Murray. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Murray, so I really wasn’t sure of what to expect from one of her books. But I was intrigued enough by the cover and blurb to take a chance and dive in. This is an erotic, BDSM romance- with plenty of triggers, dark themes, emotion, steam, banter, pleasure/pain, drama, and intensity. This is not a light and fluffy read, and I urge you to read the warnings before diving in- see below….
“This book isn’t a sweet, lighthearted romance with a sexy ripped man and a sweet submissive woman. So if that’s what you’re expecting, turn back now. These two break rules….. This book contains depictions of self-harm, intent and thoughts of suicide, mention of child abuse, and rape. It also contains graphic scenes of some BDSM acts that are often referred to as “edge play,” and may be upsetting or triggering to some readers. This content includes knife/blood play, choking, spit, face slapping, degradation/humiliation, heavy impact, hypnosis and brainwashing, and consensual non-consent…”
I have read a LOT of erotic BDSM stories in my time and am always excited to find a new one in the hope that it stands out from the rest of the crowd. This is not an easy genre to master, and often I am left feeling a little disappointed, as was the case with this book. Sorry… This should have ticked all the boxes for me and been a scorching red-hot read. But unfortunately, this wasn’t the case. I felt that some elements of the story seemed a little odd, and not really in keeping with the main storyline- and didn’t gel with the rest. Added to that this is quite a long story, which normally I would find fantastic as I love nothing better than to really sink my teeth into a story and lose myself in all the enticing developments- but the length of this story really detracted from my overall enjoyment of the book, being quite wordy with a lot of information dumps which really broke the flow of the story for me. This book has the potential for so much more but as it stands it didn’t work for me. But don’t let me put you off reading this book, as plenty of other readers have given it 5 stars, so obviously I am in the minority here. I am intrigued but what else this author can do, so I will pick up another of her books to explore just to compare.
Emotive, with a big trigger warning!
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Lindsay Murray!
What happens when you finally find the woman of you dreams, only to find she’s a complete brat? Reuben’s dominant streak is about to be tested like never before, but he is determined to tame, and train, this little brat. Alice has wanted a good Dom for what seems like forever, only to be disappointed time and again. Will Reuben finally fill the void in her life, and be the one she can trust to break her in all the right ways?
Ashes of Sin and Stardust is an AnchorX novel by Lindsay Murray. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Murray, so I really wasn’t sure of what to expect from one of her books. But I was intrigued enough by the cover and blurb to take a chance and dive in. This is an erotic, BDSM romance- with plenty of triggers, dark themes, emotion, steam, banter, pleasure/pain, drama, and intensity. This is not a light and fluffy read, and I urge you to read the warnings before diving in- see below….
“This book isn’t a sweet, lighthearted romance with a sexy ripped man and a sweet submissive woman. So if that’s what you’re expecting, turn back now. These two break rules….. This book contains depictions of self-harm, intent and thoughts of suicide, mention of child abuse, and rape. It also contains graphic scenes of some BDSM acts that are often referred to as “edge play,” and may be upsetting or triggering to some readers. This content includes knife/blood play, choking, spit, face slapping, degradation/humiliation, heavy impact, hypnosis and brainwashing, and consensual non-consent…”
I have read a LOT of erotic BDSM stories in my time and am always excited to find a new one in the hope that it stands out from the rest of the crowd. This is not an easy genre to master, and often I am left feeling a little disappointed, as was the case with this book. Sorry… This should have ticked all the boxes for me and been a scorching red-hot read. But unfortunately, this wasn’t the case. I felt that some elements of the story seemed a little odd, and not really in keeping with the main storyline- and didn’t gel with the rest. Added to that this is quite a long story, which normally I would find fantastic as I love nothing better than to really sink my teeth into a story and lose myself in all the enticing developments- but the length of this story really detracted from my overall enjoyment of the book, being quite wordy with a lot of information dumps which really broke the flow of the story for me. This book has the potential for so much more but as it stands it didn’t work for me. But don’t let me put you off reading this book, as plenty of other readers have given it 5 stars, so obviously I am in the minority here. I am intrigued but what else this author can do, so I will pick up another of her books to explore just to compare.
Emotive, with a big trigger warning!
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Lindsay Murray!
April 15, 2022
This BDSM erotic romance dominates all other novels in this genre. The writing draws you in and keeps you there with all it's brilliant highs and the darkest of lows one can experience in life.
Fall in love with Alice and Reuben as they meet and develop their relationship. The scenes with Alice are so intensely real you can literally feel what she feels as she reaches subspace. Reuben is a real life man that can dominate your world as you explore his pain and pleasure. This novel also provides true to the lifestyle information that the average person has probably not been exposed to, explaining how this type of consensual relationship should work.
The emotions in this story telling are raw and intense that send you on a wild roller coaster ride. Alice's naivete about what love really is and how it feels due to her excruciating childhood, history of abuse and mental illness allows you to see her transform into a strong confident woman who falls in love with her "tamer".
Remember the Underground is a magical place. We should all visit given the opportunity.
I highly recommend this book. I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Fall in love with Alice and Reuben as they meet and develop their relationship. The scenes with Alice are so intensely real you can literally feel what she feels as she reaches subspace. Reuben is a real life man that can dominate your world as you explore his pain and pleasure. This novel also provides true to the lifestyle information that the average person has probably not been exposed to, explaining how this type of consensual relationship should work.
The emotions in this story telling are raw and intense that send you on a wild roller coaster ride. Alice's naivete about what love really is and how it feels due to her excruciating childhood, history of abuse and mental illness allows you to see her transform into a strong confident woman who falls in love with her "tamer".
Remember the Underground is a magical place. We should all visit given the opportunity.
I highly recommend this book. I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2022
*I received a free copy from the author* Wow, wow, wow. There are truly so many amazing things to say about this book and for anyone into BDSM romances this is a must read! As always, please check the trigger warnings before beginning as it is dark content and mental health triggers. That being said, this is one of the best representations of mental health I have ever seen in a romance book.
Alice is plagued by her demons and fighting her mental illnesses with every step but early on I was already hooked and rooting for her. She makes questionable choices, she says things to try and get people to abandon her, she is raw and authentic and utterly beautiful because of it. Reuben is the same, with his own past and struggles that he covers with a broody persona he is flawed and completely human.
They don’t always make the right choices, they make mistakes and hurt each other and that is just one of the things that makes it an amazing story to read. As someone who has struggled with mental illness, Reuben’s approach to Alice was amazing to read and to see a character with her struggles be able to go through her journey was amazing.
This book will make you cry, it will make you laugh, scream, and everything else. As the characters go on the roller coaster of life your emotions join them as they go through lows and highs and everything in between.
The intense dynamic and graphic scenes add to the story and are perfectly written to satisfy everything a reader could want from that kind of scene. Overall I am so in love with this book and this author and I genuinely recommend it to everyone who loves a good dark romance!
Alice is plagued by her demons and fighting her mental illnesses with every step but early on I was already hooked and rooting for her. She makes questionable choices, she says things to try and get people to abandon her, she is raw and authentic and utterly beautiful because of it. Reuben is the same, with his own past and struggles that he covers with a broody persona he is flawed and completely human.
They don’t always make the right choices, they make mistakes and hurt each other and that is just one of the things that makes it an amazing story to read. As someone who has struggled with mental illness, Reuben’s approach to Alice was amazing to read and to see a character with her struggles be able to go through her journey was amazing.
This book will make you cry, it will make you laugh, scream, and everything else. As the characters go on the roller coaster of life your emotions join them as they go through lows and highs and everything in between.
The intense dynamic and graphic scenes add to the story and are perfectly written to satisfy everything a reader could want from that kind of scene. Overall I am so in love with this book and this author and I genuinely recommend it to everyone who loves a good dark romance!
May 15, 2023
I SO didn't expect this. had it been under it's last title 'How to tame a brat' I'd have given it a wide birth.
Smart, in my view of the author to give it a name change. There is so much more to this than a BDSM trope of older man and younger woman.
This books deals with some serious stuff and does so in such an empathetic and understanding way it is deeply touching.
When I say serious this includes (amongst others) abuse, tragic loss and mental illness. Please check the triggers before delving.
There truly is a dash of stardust as Reuben, a Dom of some repute and our main man, has had a reoccurring dream that he will meet the perfect sub, right down to exactly how she looks and what the consequences of meeting her may be.
Enter the quirky, fascinating and - yes - bratty heroine Alice. Lost and troubled with a tragic backstory, Alice is emotionally so neglected she craves attention and sets her sights on the surly Dom Reuben.
This story has a little of everything and a lot of steam. On the face of it, 2 more opposites couldn't have collided. Will they manage to complete each other or will these two, both damaged souls further shatter?
It is whimsical, brutally honest and a lesson to all, that transparent communication should be given between sexual partners. This author particularly understands the BDSM world which is so refreshing.
I got ever so slightly frustrated with the very, slow burn - it is an extremely long book - but that is only my subjective opinion.
Read it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Smart, in my view of the author to give it a name change. There is so much more to this than a BDSM trope of older man and younger woman.
This books deals with some serious stuff and does so in such an empathetic and understanding way it is deeply touching.
When I say serious this includes (amongst others) abuse, tragic loss and mental illness. Please check the triggers before delving.
There truly is a dash of stardust as Reuben, a Dom of some repute and our main man, has had a reoccurring dream that he will meet the perfect sub, right down to exactly how she looks and what the consequences of meeting her may be.
Enter the quirky, fascinating and - yes - bratty heroine Alice. Lost and troubled with a tragic backstory, Alice is emotionally so neglected she craves attention and sets her sights on the surly Dom Reuben.
This story has a little of everything and a lot of steam. On the face of it, 2 more opposites couldn't have collided. Will they manage to complete each other or will these two, both damaged souls further shatter?
It is whimsical, brutally honest and a lesson to all, that transparent communication should be given between sexual partners. This author particularly understands the BDSM world which is so refreshing.
I got ever so slightly frustrated with the very, slow burn - it is an extremely long book - but that is only my subjective opinion.
Read it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 28, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
This book used to be titled “how to tame a brat” and that is literally the subject of the book, for the smallest synopsis possible. 😂
Reuben is an old school BDSM Dom who cannot stand brats. He’s been dreaming of this girl for years (there’s clairvoyance in the book between characters) and he finally meets her, Alice. But she’s the biggest brat he’s ever met. They both have demons in their closets and they get to know one another’s over the course of the book.
My biggest note is that this book is looooooong. It’s wordy, there’s a lot of knowledge regarding the BDSM community and the pasts of the characters. The clairvoyance thing is oddly put in the book, but gives it its own flair. If you’ve got the time set aside, it’s a good read.
June 2, 2022
AMAZING! I first found this on Literotica but it was removed due to publication. So, I finally tracked it down and GLADLY paid for it. I am so thrilled with how well this panned out between Alice and Reuben. GOOD JOB Lindsay! <3 You inspired me to write my own story called Taming a Brat on Literotica. People accused me of copying, but it is very different in it's own way. It would be amazing if you could check it out. Back to reading your amazing story now! :)
July 5, 2022
⚠️warning⚠️
self-harm, intent and
thoughts of suicide,
mention of child abuse, and
rape, BDSM, knife/blood
play, choking, spit, face
slapping, degradation/
humiliation, heavy impact,
hypnosis and brainwashing,
and consensual non-
consent.
Finding Ashes of Sin and Stardust, was previously
known as How To Tame A Brat. Reuben has had a
dream for most of his life, and it's about his sub.
But all he needs to do is find her. Alice has had a
rough life - she deal with mental health issues,
and she has bad luck with men. As the characters
go on the roller coaster of life your emotions join
them as they go through lows and highs and
everything in between.
self-harm, intent and
thoughts of suicide,
mention of child abuse, and
rape, BDSM, knife/blood
play, choking, spit, face
slapping, degradation/
humiliation, heavy impact,
hypnosis and brainwashing,
and consensual non-
consent.
Finding Ashes of Sin and Stardust, was previously
known as How To Tame A Brat. Reuben has had a
dream for most of his life, and it's about his sub.
But all he needs to do is find her. Alice has had a
rough life - she deal with mental health issues,
and she has bad luck with men. As the characters
go on the roller coaster of life your emotions join
them as they go through lows and highs and
everything in between.
May 24, 2022
Loved it as a bdsm romance!
June 10, 2022
Ahhhh I don’t even know what to say!!!!!! It was soooo good!!!! I loved Ruben and Alice individually and together!! Alice’s trauma and resulting disorder was heartbreaking but I loved her growth throughout the book. I was just as proud of her as Ruben was. I thought their dynamic was great. I loved the bratting between the two.
May 8, 2022
Is this story hot? YES! Is it kinky? 100% YES! Is it engaging? OMG, you will not get any sleep for a few days, this book is impossible to put down!
The narrative has depth and complexity, the characters are written so well it feels like they are real people you get to spend time with. You will love the humanity of Rueben and Alice, their lows and highs, their inner worlds, logic and actions, you will suffer with Alice because of her mental illness, you will cry and laugh with them and those 1000+ pages won’t feel enough (but that’s just because I’m greedy, the book has a perfect ending).
If you are familiar with the world of kink or just curious about what a d/s relationship can look like, this gorgeous novel gives both good and bad examples of behaviours, talks about consent and a variety of kinks.
This is my first read by this author, and I am absolutely in love; I am off to read her other books.
The narrative has depth and complexity, the characters are written so well it feels like they are real people you get to spend time with. You will love the humanity of Rueben and Alice, their lows and highs, their inner worlds, logic and actions, you will suffer with Alice because of her mental illness, you will cry and laugh with them and those 1000+ pages won’t feel enough (but that’s just because I’m greedy, the book has a perfect ending).
If you are familiar with the world of kink or just curious about what a d/s relationship can look like, this gorgeous novel gives both good and bad examples of behaviours, talks about consent and a variety of kinks.
This is my first read by this author, and I am absolutely in love; I am off to read her other books.
July 7, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶🌶🌶
**Please check trigger warnings before reading, there are A LOT! **
This was a tough one for me to review. There’s so much that’s great about this story. The portrayal of BDSM in this is AMAZING and spot on! I absolutely adore the way mental illness is represented as well. The book is very well written overall, and there’s a ton of backstory on both of the MCs.
There were a few parts that I struggled a bit to get through, but I pushed through. Again, check trigger warnings! My biggest issue is just how incredibly long this story was. I really think I would have loved it more if I had set aside more time to read it. I would definitely recommend reading this if the triggers don’t affect you and you have plenty of time to fully immerse yourself in the story!
🌶🌶🌶🌶
**Please check trigger warnings before reading, there are A LOT! **
This was a tough one for me to review. There’s so much that’s great about this story. The portrayal of BDSM in this is AMAZING and spot on! I absolutely adore the way mental illness is represented as well. The book is very well written overall, and there’s a ton of backstory on both of the MCs.
There were a few parts that I struggled a bit to get through, but I pushed through. Again, check trigger warnings! My biggest issue is just how incredibly long this story was. I really think I would have loved it more if I had set aside more time to read it. I would definitely recommend reading this if the triggers don’t affect you and you have plenty of time to fully immerse yourself in the story!
July 26, 2022
Ms Murray has been a new discovery of mine .
I like BDSM Romances. But then the bdsm part becomes tricky. People don't understand the importance of mutual consent and trust between partners. And then there is that always alpha male Dominance where people have a distorted sense of where and how dominance is needed. It can never be equated with abuse and non-con. Sadly 😥 there is zero regard for consent and the trauma it may cause for others. Also people mistake bdsm as something which always mean dominance in avery aspect of other person's life
Sorry for the rant now for the good part.Author has done well in the maximum way possible. I will give her 5 🌟. She deserves that so that she knows she can write even better.
Reuben is what in reality portrays a Dom.
No one can be completely perfect that's why he and his submissive Alice come to love each other's perfect imperfections.
Alice the submissive has hell lot of traumas of life which I think we can relate in someway.
To come out of that trauma and the way they heal other is marvelous.
Ofcourse the hardcore bdsm parts were really tantalizing and very knowledgeable.
It's a spoiler free review so🤭 i will stop here.
I look forward for her other works. Lots of love to you❤.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I like BDSM Romances. But then the bdsm part becomes tricky. People don't understand the importance of mutual consent and trust between partners. And then there is that always alpha male Dominance where people have a distorted sense of where and how dominance is needed. It can never be equated with abuse and non-con. Sadly 😥 there is zero regard for consent and the trauma it may cause for others. Also people mistake bdsm as something which always mean dominance in avery aspect of other person's life
Sorry for the rant now for the good part.Author has done well in the maximum way possible. I will give her 5 🌟. She deserves that so that she knows she can write even better.
Reuben is what in reality portrays a Dom.
No one can be completely perfect that's why he and his submissive Alice come to love each other's perfect imperfections.
Alice the submissive has hell lot of traumas of life which I think we can relate in someway.
To come out of that trauma and the way they heal other is marvelous.
Ofcourse the hardcore bdsm parts were really tantalizing and very knowledgeable.
It's a spoiler free review so🤭 i will stop here.
I look forward for her other works. Lots of love to you❤.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 29, 2022
A fantastic read! This is the best book in this genre that I've ever read. This will keep you turning the page to see what happens next. The characters are so real and believable. I love Alice and Reuben they are incredible. The mental illnesses dealt with are handled in a sensitive manner and give you more understanding of what some people suffer. I really appreciated that since I've worked with mentally ill people for approximately 20 years, it was refreshing.
This story also deals with BDSM and it handles all aspects of that lifestyle in an appropriate manner. You will also learn some things about it you probably didn't know unless you are living the life. If you're just curious about it this will explain all the pros and cons to you.
Enjoy this book! I think I've read it 3 times now and will probably read again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story also deals with BDSM and it handles all aspects of that lifestyle in an appropriate manner. You will also learn some things about it you probably didn't know unless you are living the life. If you're just curious about it this will explain all the pros and cons to you.
Enjoy this book! I think I've read it 3 times now and will probably read again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 24, 2022
Ashes of Sin and Stardust
By: Lindsay Murray
5*
This book is fantastic. It is the second book in Anchor X, but it is definitely able to be a standalone. I’ve never read the first one, but I promise you I will now! This is definitely a hot and steamy romance. However, more importantly it is an interesting look at trauma and mental illness. The characters are so well developed that they become more than just characters, you feel connected to them. Due to this connection, I feel the author’s warning is definitely needed. This is a look at trauma, abuse and mental illness and how the characters work through them together is something that can be tough to read and intense at times. However, I would not use this to discourage anyone from reading this fantastic book, rather, just to be mindful that it can be very intense.
By: Lindsay Murray
5*
This book is fantastic. It is the second book in Anchor X, but it is definitely able to be a standalone. I’ve never read the first one, but I promise you I will now! This is definitely a hot and steamy romance. However, more importantly it is an interesting look at trauma and mental illness. The characters are so well developed that they become more than just characters, you feel connected to them. Due to this connection, I feel the author’s warning is definitely needed. This is a look at trauma, abuse and mental illness and how the characters work through them together is something that can be tough to read and intense at times. However, I would not use this to discourage anyone from reading this fantastic book, rather, just to be mindful that it can be very intense.
July 24, 2022
Loved Reuben and Alice!!!
I really enjoyed this story and found Reuben and Alice great characters. I loved how the author described their relationship and how you always knew what was going on with them. I found some of the elements of the story a bit out of place (like Reuben’s visions etc) and the backdrop of religion. I feel that the author tried to insert these into the storyline but it did not get embedded well throughout. I also struggled with the storyline being dragged out as much as it was. I felt like I was constantly waiting for something big to happen but nothing really did. I am giving it a 4 **** because I did mostly enjoy the book and their journey through the BDSM lifestyle.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this story and found Reuben and Alice great characters. I loved how the author described their relationship and how you always knew what was going on with them. I found some of the elements of the story a bit out of place (like Reuben’s visions etc) and the backdrop of religion. I feel that the author tried to insert these into the storyline but it did not get embedded well throughout. I also struggled with the storyline being dragged out as much as it was. I felt like I was constantly waiting for something big to happen but nothing really did. I am giving it a 4 **** because I did mostly enjoy the book and their journey through the BDSM lifestyle.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
July 12, 2022
(I received an ARC for this book)
Trigger Warnings include:
depictions of self-harm, intent and thoughts of suicide, mention of child abuse, and rape.sexual content includes edge play, knife/blood play, choking, spit, face slapping, degradation/humiliation, heavy impact, hypnosis and brainwashing, and consensual non-consent.
Finished the first page, and was already curious how far I wanted to go. Not that I wasn’t interested, but between the dream Reuben has been having for YEARS and the content warnings, I just wasn’t sure if this is the sort of long winded book I wanted to dive into. I’m all for red flags looking green, but I didn’t know if these were my kinda flags at all. Reuben has been without a sub or companion for years, and his inner demons are screaming for him to find this mystery woman he’s been dreaming about. He may be successful and demanding, but you can tell he has a huge heart. He’s such a giving person, and fully supportive and loving of those around him. All the added faces almost made Reuben feel like a side character. (Which is part of the reason I just couldn’t remain focused on this book.) There were pages and pages just focused on the side characters. Felt like reading multiple books at once. I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened once Reuben finally gave in to Alice and they could become the focus. But…I wasn’t sure how much farther into the book that was going to take. (How did so much happen in just the first chapter?!) The writing is good! It’s written in a way that you can understand and see everything vividly as you read, which is enjoyable. But this just isn’t the kind of story line that I like reading.
Trigger Warnings include:
depictions of self-harm, intent and thoughts of suicide, mention of child abuse, and rape.sexual content includes edge play, knife/blood play, choking, spit, face slapping, degradation/humiliation, heavy impact, hypnosis and brainwashing, and consensual non-consent.
Finished the first page, and was already curious how far I wanted to go. Not that I wasn’t interested, but between the dream Reuben has been having for YEARS and the content warnings, I just wasn’t sure if this is the sort of long winded book I wanted to dive into. I’m all for red flags looking green, but I didn’t know if these were my kinda flags at all. Reuben has been without a sub or companion for years, and his inner demons are screaming for him to find this mystery woman he’s been dreaming about. He may be successful and demanding, but you can tell he has a huge heart. He’s such a giving person, and fully supportive and loving of those around him. All the added faces almost made Reuben feel like a side character. (Which is part of the reason I just couldn’t remain focused on this book.) There were pages and pages just focused on the side characters. Felt like reading multiple books at once. I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened once Reuben finally gave in to Alice and they could become the focus. But…I wasn’t sure how much farther into the book that was going to take. (How did so much happen in just the first chapter?!) The writing is good! It’s written in a way that you can understand and see everything vividly as you read, which is enjoyable. But this just isn’t the kind of story line that I like reading.
August 24, 2022
This book had me hooked from the beginning. I found it hard to put it down. There were so many different aspects that kept me entertained. I appreciated the warning from the author before reading. It was needed in some parts. Amazing characters made it feel as though it was happening in front of me.
July 17, 2022
Ashes of Sin and Stardust
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is hot,kinky and the characters and world building made it impossible to put this book down!! Had a couple of nights just reading.
The prose and the background story grabbed my attention from page 1 and I was hooked to the very end, the author leaves you wanting more.
Reuben and Alice are both flawed individuals that you will love spending time with. Highs and lows,the inner monologue, slight paranormal activity and how they react in each situation is so well written,that they both jump off the page.
I felt Alice’s suffering throughout due to her mental illness and I both laughed and cried and it was so engaging and appeared well researched. Seeing how Alice and Reuban dealt with the different issues, with help of therapists was eye opening.
In regard to the Kink, this both explores both good and bad relationship dynamics and behaviors. Consent and various different types of kinks are discussed throughout.
This is a new to me author but I will definitely read more by her.
TW.
Self Harm, sucidual ideation,mention of childhood trauma, BDSM, and discussions of sexual abuse
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is hot,kinky and the characters and world building made it impossible to put this book down!! Had a couple of nights just reading.
The prose and the background story grabbed my attention from page 1 and I was hooked to the very end, the author leaves you wanting more.
Reuben and Alice are both flawed individuals that you will love spending time with. Highs and lows,the inner monologue, slight paranormal activity and how they react in each situation is so well written,that they both jump off the page.
I felt Alice’s suffering throughout due to her mental illness and I both laughed and cried and it was so engaging and appeared well researched. Seeing how Alice and Reuban dealt with the different issues, with help of therapists was eye opening.
In regard to the Kink, this both explores both good and bad relationship dynamics and behaviors. Consent and various different types of kinks are discussed throughout.
This is a new to me author but I will definitely read more by her.
TW.
Self Harm, sucidual ideation,mention of childhood trauma, BDSM, and discussions of sexual abuse
October 16, 2022
Ugh. The blurb doesn't mention he's religious.
July 7, 2022
*** This book has a million and one triggers. Check that before reading. If you're still with me, keep reading.
HOLY GOODNESS. I don't think it is possible to explain how truly incredible this book is.
First of all, it is HANDS DOWN one of the best BDSM portrayals I have read. The characters screw up here and there but who doesn't. You are shown good examples, bad ones, appropriate protocols. The WHOLE nine yards and then some.
This book is incredibly long, over a thousand pages. That being said, it is enthralling. I consumed it in basically two days of reading.
Reuben and Alice will break your heart and bring it back together over and over.
This book also has some amazing depictions of mental health, how it feels, coping mechanisms, etc. Which is so well written.
We also have a slight paranormal factor in the book which seemed a little odd but was written into the story well and ended up making a lot of sense.
If smut and BDSM don't bother you, PICK THIS BAD BOY UP.
HOLY GOODNESS. I don't think it is possible to explain how truly incredible this book is.
First of all, it is HANDS DOWN one of the best BDSM portrayals I have read. The characters screw up here and there but who doesn't. You are shown good examples, bad ones, appropriate protocols. The WHOLE nine yards and then some.
This book is incredibly long, over a thousand pages. That being said, it is enthralling. I consumed it in basically two days of reading.
Reuben and Alice will break your heart and bring it back together over and over.
This book also has some amazing depictions of mental health, how it feels, coping mechanisms, etc. Which is so well written.
We also have a slight paranormal factor in the book which seemed a little odd but was written into the story well and ended up making a lot of sense.
If smut and BDSM don't bother you, PICK THIS BAD BOY UP.
July 10, 2022
This book BROKE me.
Dark romance has always been my thing as a smut reader. TW don’t scare me away.
But this book? Maaaaan. Alice and Reuben’s story is beautiful. Bea-u-tiful! We get a legitimate inside look into the mind and life of someone with BPD.
I’m always on the hunt for legit BDSM stories and I’m almost always disappointed by them. But Ashes of Sin and Stardust did NOT disappoint in any way! Reuben has the absolute patience of a SAINT as he learns to speak brat and learns all that he can about all of Alice’s mental illnesses. Reuben is the book boyfriend to end all book boyfriends. I will die on this hill!
Dark romance has always been my thing as a smut reader. TW don’t scare me away.
But this book? Maaaaan. Alice and Reuben’s story is beautiful. Bea-u-tiful! We get a legitimate inside look into the mind and life of someone with BPD.
I’m always on the hunt for legit BDSM stories and I’m almost always disappointed by them. But Ashes of Sin and Stardust did NOT disappoint in any way! Reuben has the absolute patience of a SAINT as he learns to speak brat and learns all that he can about all of Alice’s mental illnesses. Reuben is the book boyfriend to end all book boyfriends. I will die on this hill!
July 10, 2022
This is a book all about BDSM and a dom with his first brat. I give this book 4 stars it was good it had a great plot and lots of information. The author did a great job explaining this and how to do certain things. I really also liked how she started out each chapter. The characters were awesome and I liked how they helped women who had been sexually abused. It was also cool the setting for some of it being in Western North Carolina since that’s where I’m from!! If you like BDSM then this is your book! Add it to your TBR and enjoy 😊
July 6, 2022
Reuben has been having visions of this raven haired beauty for half his life. He thought she would be easier to find though. He finds her by accident and is not prepared for what he sees. He actually runs away from her because he's too shocked to deal with it. Will Alice being a brat steer him away from being with her?
This was not what I expected. His nicknames for her are cute. I enjoyed the fact that she's a brat and he doesn't like them. Their trips were cute. I love how they met. It's funny how all his friends know her but he never ran into her. The fact that Reuben helps so many hurt woman is amazing. I'm quite disappointed in this book though. I was expecting more than what I received.
This was not what I expected. His nicknames for her are cute. I enjoyed the fact that she's a brat and he doesn't like them. Their trips were cute. I love how they met. It's funny how all his friends know her but he never ran into her. The fact that Reuben helps so many hurt woman is amazing. I'm quite disappointed in this book though. I was expecting more than what I received.
July 6, 2022
Check the triggers, there's some rather intense ones.
Reuben has been seeing her face for aslong as he could remember but where was his destiny! After the accident she was all that kept him going.
Reuben is the perfect Daddy Dom to center Alice's Bratty Ass.
Amazingly emotional story with added bonus of smut, kink & a intimidating af, ultimate Dom 🥵
The neurodiverse & mental trauma was written perfectly, the different personalities were portrayed with such real characteristics it was so easy to lose yourself within the emotion of the book.
I struggled to read parts as the story slowed down but it would draw me in again eventually.
Be patient. It's oh so worth it.
Reuben has been seeing her face for aslong as he could remember but where was his destiny! After the accident she was all that kept him going.
Reuben is the perfect Daddy Dom to center Alice's Bratty Ass.
Amazingly emotional story with added bonus of smut, kink & a intimidating af, ultimate Dom 🥵
The neurodiverse & mental trauma was written perfectly, the different personalities were portrayed with such real characteristics it was so easy to lose yourself within the emotion of the book.
I struggled to read parts as the story slowed down but it would draw me in again eventually.
Be patient. It's oh so worth it.
July 8, 2022
This book is a long book. But it also has so much that it explains everything so that you understand everything going on. It covers a lot in mental illness and recovery. It was a good story and the love the relationship between Reuben and Alice. The story made it feel so real.
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