Six full-length BDSM love stories set in a lavish tropical resort. Welcome to Desire Island, where you can bring your sexiest fantasies to life…if you dare. In this series, six lucky submissives meet the seductive Dominants who will ultimately claim them.
One True Master -Topping from the bottom isn’t something Skylar’s assigned trainer can abide. Using intensive erotic discipline and control, Master Caelan won’t relent until she embraces her true nature. It may be harder…and more rewarding…than either of them imagined…
Two of a Kind -Drawn together by their love of bondage, leather, and ink… Master Dylan sees something in Kendra—her feisty nature hides a kindred pain. Is he willing to expose his own secrets to help heal hers?
Three Strikes -When staff slave Abbie wins the hottest (and most unattainable) Master on the island, their post-auction play is just supposed to be for fun. But she’s about to find out - this Dom only plays for keeps…
Four Beautiful Letters: BDSM -When Nick meets Sophia on Desire Island, he may have finally found his match – a sub who’s ready to try it all. Sophia, a hardcore masochist, isn’t looking for a love connection. No limits can be scary… But falling in love can be scarier still…
Five Stars -Shani keeps her wounded spirit a secret, letting nothing disturb her outer tranquility. That is, until Adam appears on the island. Their sizzling BDSM scenes are off the chart. But until Shani can find the courage to confront her dark secret, Adam will never penetrate the wall she’s built around her heart.
Six Signs of Submission - Lainey, a kink-friendly staff member, is no sub, but she’s fascinated by BDSM. Cooper loves a challenge, whether in business or as an experienced Dom. When he invites Lainey to play, she takes a chance… That single incendiary scene confirms Cooper’s suspicions about Lainey’s true nature. And he’s going to prove there’s more than one way to claim a sub…
Claire has been writing for nearly two decades, and has published over 85 novels. She writes BDSM romance and abduction tales, spanning both m/f and m/m genres. She has received numerous awards for her bestselling work, including the NLA-Int’l Pauline Réage Award and the Golden Flogger Award for best BDSM fiction.. Her darker works press the envelope of what is erotic and what can be a sometimes dangerous slide into the world of sadomasochism. Ultimately her work deals with the human condition, and our constant search for love and intensity of experience. Connect with Claire and get a FREE starter library! https://clairethompson.net
Claire Thompson’s stories are always a joy to read,so when she had not one,but SIX stories on offer as an ARC,i nearly tripped over my own feet in my haste to request the beautiful Desire Island boxset. And what a boxset it is….not only with desire running high,but emotions too! These couples have at least one thing in common,and that’s the beauty of BDSM. They’re all embarking on a journey to a HEA,each in their own way. From being afraid to never finding that elusive ONE,not seeing that ONE until it might be too late,thinking too little of one-self for that ONE,being too busy with the wrong things until it’s nearly too late for that ONE,having the ghost of a bad experience nearly ruining the chance to be with that ONE,to not being the sub that ONE is looking for….. All these stories have their own qualities,their own beauty,and Claire has lovingly brought them to life. And i enjoyed each and every one of them,very much!
One True Master is the story of Skylar and Caelan. Skylar is searching for a Master that can give her what she needs,but so far all she’s found are wannabes. When the club she’s a member of,holds a contest with a week at the new Desire Island as a prize,she’s the lucky winner. The Master that will be training her,is Caelan,and there’s a click between them from the start. But does that mean there’s a chance for more?
In Two of a Kind we meet Kendra and Dylan. They both have had a traumatic experience in the past.Dylan has become a Master on the island to teach others how to stay aware of risks within the lifestyle,while still seeking boundaries. Kendra has accepted a job as a dessert chef on the island,and wants to get back into the lifestyle. Once they meet,they hit it off,but will their secrets stand in the way of a HEA?
In Three Strikes,we follow Master Ryan and Abbie on their yourney towards a beautiful Master/slave relationship. They’re both residents of Desire Island,and Ryan owns of the resort together with Mistress Ella. He’s been looking for his perfect slavegirl for years,but failed to notice she was closeby for almost a year. Until Abbie decides to give him a push. Will making time to see if they really fit help them?
Nick and Sophia are visitors of Desire Island in Four Beautiful Letters:BDSM. Sophia takes everything Nick gives her,and more. They really seem to be made for eachother,if only Nick’s dedication to his work didn’t stand in the way…Back home,Sophia is convinced it won’t work. But Nick is having an epiphany,and plans to take action. Can they still be together in spite of their very different lives?
Shani’s secret is revealed in Five Stars when Adam returns to the island to ask her to come to Portland with him. He has a booth at the Fetish Fair,and knows her selfmade jewelry will make an impression. Not as much of an impression as she’s made on him,but still…Shani is nervous about going home,the place where she went through hell. And she’ll have to tell Adam about it if she’s hoping to have a future with him.
The final story,Six Signs of Submission,is about how Cooper leads Lainey down the path towards true submission. She’s convinced she’s not a sub. Only what Cooper saw of her,makes him disagree,and he intends to show this gorgeous girl she ís one,and make her see how beautiful it is. He knows he’ll have to be careful because of the firm walls she’s put up,but he’ll get her there. But how long will he be on the island?
Desire Island is a resort designed for people to enjoy their BDSM lifestyle. These books all have strong women who find their special people. Some characters appear in multiple stories.
One True Master Skylar is a submissive who hasn't been able to find a dom who can give her what she wants. Then she wins a weeks vacation on Desire Island. It is a club that allows people to explore their darkest fantasies. Skylar decides on the 24/7 Master/slave full-immersion experience, and she is paired with Master Caelan. Will she find what she has been looking for?
Two of a Kind Kendra has just started a job as a dessert chef on Desire Island, a BDSM resort. She wants to get involved with the BDSM world again, but she is haunted by a very bad experience with a would-be dom who badly injured her. She meets Master Dylan, a trainer on the island, who also has issues from a toxic relationship in the past, Can they manage to build a relationship together and put the past behind them?
Three Strikes Abbie has been attracted to Ryan since she started as a staff slave on Desire Island. Now a reverse auction has given her the chance to show Ryan how much he means to her. Ryan doesn't expect to find a woman who is prepared to offer him a total power exchange, but this is what Abbie has dreamed of. Will their week's trial give them what they both want.
Four Beautiful Letters Sophia has a weeks holiday booked on Desire Island. She meets Nick, a sadist, and he is an instant match with Sophia's masochist desires. They are looking forward to developing a relationship, but Nick is called away from the island by his demanding job. Will Nick's intensive work culture allow them to build a meaningful relationship?
Five Stars Shani loves working as a staff slave on Desire Island. No one there asks what is in her past that made her retreat to Desire Island. No one until Adam Hawk becomes interested in Shani. He is the first man that Shani has been interested in since she arrived on the island. Adam invites Shani to join him on a trip to Portland to a BDSM sales event. It would also give her the chance to catch up with her family, but Portland also has bad memories.
Six Signs of Submission Cooper sees Lainey during his week long visit to Desire Island. She isn't there to play, but instead she commutes daily to the island for her job as fitness trainer. He joins her exercise class, and he is sure that she is a submissive despite her denial. Can he introduce her to BDSM and show her that she is a submissive?
I first read these as individual stories and really enjoyed reading them again one after the other. Claire Thompson is the Queen of this genre brilliantly combining BDSM with love.
One True Master I love Claire Thompson’s books and this was no exception. The story of Skylar and Caelen kept me engrossed and was over far too soon. Cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
Two of a Kind I love Claire Thompson’s books. This story of Kendra and Dylan getting over bad experiences in the past to come together was enthralling.
Three Strikes Wow! I never tire of reading Claire’s books and this story of Abbie and Ryan is no exception. Bring on the next instalment.
Four Beautiful Letters That’s it the last of the Desire Island quartet. I have thoroughly enjoyed these books and this last one was no exception. I like the way Claire links BDSM with a love story, and Sophia and Nick’s story was no exception.
Five Stars I have read all Claire Thompson’s BDSM novels and this latest is so good as Desire Island meets Connections. The story of Shani and Adam and their coming to terms with their past is so well written and compelling I couldn’t put it down. Their love story was beautifully and sympathetically told.
Six Signs of Submission Another chapter in the Desire Island saga. Lainey has always lived her life being in charge and winning. Then she meets Cooper and although she keeps saying she is not a submissive is she really telling herself the truth? This book explores a growing love in all its varied aspects. Another triumph from Claire Thompson.
An extraordinary utopia with believable characters and situations.
Vacations for an immersive submissive experience, unexpected emotional connections, opportunities for personal growth and unique experiences only to be found with lifestyle Masters. Each standalone story features a different couple-to-be with cameos of existing members of the resort.
All the novels in this series are shorter reads, so the action is fast paced and intense. The picturesque descriptive writing draws you in allowing you to become quickly invested in the lives of the employees and guests of Desire Island.
I appreciated the depth and complexity of each character and how the backstories are relayed to the reader. All have flaws and foibles yet an appreciable amount of growth is incorporated as they journey to their HEAs.
A winning combination of engaging fluid prose, educational background knowledge, relayed with humour and terrific storylines.
I was amazed at the depth Claire was able to achieve in these novellas. I did not feel like the characters lacked development or the story was hurried or simple. The island resort guests are all types of people who visit for all sorts of reasons. I am certain you will identify with one of them. As always, this author never disappoints!
Each story ahs there own unique characters, with a roller coaster ride. They will make you cry and laugh all at the same time. Hot BDSM scenes that make you tingle and want to put yourself in the story. So believable! Loved each one in different ways. They will be quick reads because you won't be able to put them down!!
Desire Island is where people can go to be free and be themselves. These couples aren’t always looking for love, but once they make that connection, there is no going back. Smart and sexy, strong and confident, this has something for everyone to make their desires come true!
ONE TRUE MASTER What do you do when you win the week of your dreams? You grab it and run with it! Even the official preliminary arrangements via mail and phone read like foreplay! So when Skylar gets to her destination and finally meets her assigned Dom, Caelan, in person, it doesn't take long until those two connect on a 'non-professional' level. As a matter of habit Ms Thompson fills the pages of this book with her usual smoldering, sumptuous description of their growing attachment. And attached they do become, boy do they ever!
TWO OF A KIND The new pastry chef has arrived! Kendra follows her cousin to Desire Island and she sweeps everybody off their feet with her lavish concoctions. At the same time her feet are swept from under her by Dylan, teaching Dom on the island. Their intense chemistry positively explodes off the pages. But those two have a hard time coming to terms with painful personal experiences in their past. Enjoy the sensitive way Ms Thompson narrates their story in her usual elegant way! This island is getting more magical with every book! THREE STRIKES Finally she wins her dream Dom! Well, at least for a short time and then... Master Ryan, conscientious Dom and part owner of Desire Island, and Abbie, staff slave and positions trainer. They have a well established work relationship. But Abbie has been scheming to get the man she fell for when she first came to the island to recognize there is more than that between them. After the first sobering encounter we get to read and feel how, during one week exclusively together, they both learn what their feelings for each other are. FIVE STARS A tender tale of trust and snappy whips ;-) Starting at Desire Island this story takes you on a trip. Not only geographically, but deep into suppressed memories and their painful resurgence. A very short meeting on the island blossoms into a sweet love story "Island Style" and grows into a renewal of old ties, finding new friends, and a newfound, self affirming purpose in life. Ms Thompson at her finest!
This box set is the complete series, books 1 through 6.
The first is ONE TRUE MASTER. It features Skylar a young woman searching for a Dom that she doesn’t have to explain what se wants. She wins a trip to Desire Island where she meets a Dom Caelen. He is tasked in helping her find out if she is a submissive and to teach her how to do that. The sparks fly with there first video call. And when they meet it is electric. Can they work through her doubts? Will he have to give up his position to be with her? Well….there is a Happily Ever After. I enjoyed how they negotiate this happy. It unexpected complication.
The second is TWO OF A KIND: It features Kendra. She is hired as the dessert chef for the island. She is a submissive who had a nearly fatal incident 5 to 6 months ago. She is ready to get back in the game and reclaim her life. She meets the new Dom, Dylan. He too has a past trauma that he keeps hidden. He is doing his best to win Kendra’s trust. Can they overcome their secrets? Will they find a way to share their mutual pain? It is hard sometimes to admit it all to yourself. And even harder to share it with someone. I like that Dylan realizes that he needs to give as much trust to Kendra as he wants from her. This was a fast paced love story that thoroughly satisfies.
The third is THREE STRIKES: It features Abbie a staff slave on the island. She has dreamed of finding Master Right since she was a girl. When she first came to the resort she was drawn to Master Ryan, a co-owner of the resort. He is the consummate slave trainer. He has never found his one true love. He keeps himself emotionally distant to the slaves and trainees. He has found himself seeking out Abbie when he needs a subject for training sessions. And they have become friends and colleagues. When she makes a bold gesture to win him at the reverse auction he finds his walls crumbling. So what is a Master to do? He runs away. Can he get out of his own way and let them explore the possibilities? Can she submit completely? I like that this couple shows that a true D/s relationship is built on honest communication and Love.
The fourth is FOUR BEAUTIFUL LETTERS - BDSM: it features Nick Kincaid, a high powered real developer. And Sophia Weinstein, an antique shop owner. She craves an intense sensory deprivation experience. And Nick craves giving that to someone. Their attraction is instant. They are a perfect fit. But for one problem. Nick is a workaholic. He can’t let go of the reins. But after meeting Sophia he realizes his life is lacking. Can he let go? Will Sophia forgive him for putting her second? I love Sophia’s independent spirit. She is not your typical sub. And Nick isn’t hung up on protocol.
The next story is FIVE STARS: It features Shani Youngblood. She is a staff slave who is keeping a secret. When leather artist Adam Hawk comes to the island they h e an instant connection. He senses her pain and wants to help her. He convinces her to travel with him to a conference in Portland, Oregon. This is where Shani is from. She is afraid she will run into the man who abused her. Eventually she shares her story with Adam. And he supports her any way he can. He also encourages her to try selling her jewelry. This story shows how love can heal your wounds. And how to be true to yourself. I like the twist when she sees “Sir” again.
The final story is SIX SIGNS OF SUBMISSION: It features Lainey Miller. She is the fitness instructor on the island. She doesn’t consider herself as a submissive. Although she is comfortable around all the nudity and play on the island. She meets Cooper Hanson when he joins a step aerobics class. He saw her setting up and couldn’t resist. He just sold his company and is searching for the next thing in his life. He stops at the island for a visit before sailing up the coast. He quickly becomes infatuated with Lainey’s strong will and innocence. She lets him in one step at a time. Their exploration of the dynamics of Dominance and submission reveals a wonderful love story. This was a nice finish to this box set.
I love all these stories. They give a sampling of the different sides of BDSM. And Claire Thompson always delivers a sexy, steamy tale.
This series gets better with each book and meeting the characters from previous books is fun. All the stories have a different perspective and provide a great overview of the lifestyle. If only Desire Island was real.
One true master This was a sweet story about love at first sight and the dynamic between a slave and master. It reminded me of ‘The Compound’ series but a little less intense.
Two of a kind Declan and Kendra are so well matched, both have hurt and tragedy in their past that they have overcome and grown from. It was interesting that they did not enter into a Master slave relationship, it provides the reader with different perspectives of the lifestyle. This is a gentle book with intense feelings and is a rewarding read.
Three Strikes This was a different approach for a Master/slave story from Desire Island because it was Abbie that made the first move because Ryan couldn’t see what everyone else did - his attraction to Abbie. This is not an insta love story but it is a love story and also introduces us to some new characters as well as touching base with some of those we have met already.
Four Beautiful Letters Sometimes life gets in the way and never more so than when Nick meets Sophia on Desire Island. Their connection is intense and immediate but Nick’s business does its best to pull them apart. Fortunately, Sophia is patient and Nick has the good sense to realise he is about to jeopardize everything. Although the play is intense, this is a sweet love story and a happy ending.
Five Stars Shani and Adam met on Desire Island but Adam persuades Shani to go with him to Portland for an exhibition unaware that Shani had a really bad experience with an abusive Dom. However, Shani so wants to be with Adam she overcomes her fear and reunites with her family, This is a real feel good story about finding inner strength through love.
Six Signs of Submission This is a story about the evolution of a relationship that started out with an instant and compelling attraction. Cooper is an experienced Dom visiting Desire Island following the sale of his company, he is decompressing and Lainey has an immediate impact on him, trouble is she doesn’t think she has a submissive bone in her body, Connor thinks otherwise and sets out to prove it. Cooper is a patient man and gently but firmly shows Lainey how the pleasure pain is a part of her she should embrace. Lainey’s journey is a metamorphosis and at one point she expresses that she feels like she is shedding her skin. This is a quick read but not a super sweet story, it is romantic and sexy and the epilogue is lovely.
An extraordinary utopia with believable characters and situations.
Vacations for an immersive submissive experience, unexpected emotional connections, opportunities for personal growth and unique experiences only to be found with lifestyle Masters. Each standalone story features a different couple-to-be with cameos of existing members of the resort.
All the novels in this series are shorter reads, so the action is fast paced and intense. The picturesque descriptive writing draws you in allowing you to become quickly invested in the lives of the employees and guests of Desire Island.
I appreciated the depth and complexity of each character and how the backstories are relayed to the reader. All have flaws and foibles yet an appreciable amount of growth is incorporated as they journey to their HEAs.
A winning combination of engaging fluid prose, educational background knowledge, relayed with humour and terrific storylines
If I was to recommend a group of books too anyone it would be this one!!! Great for newbies as well as the more experienced of the lifestyle. Claire's descriptive way of writing is brilliant, whether it be setting the scene of the location or the intimate actions of the characters you feel as though you are there with them. I started reading book 1 and after about 20 or so pages I had actual read it before but it still held my attention and I found myself noticing little bits I had missed the last time. This continued throughout the whole series - each book was an entertaining and attention grabbing novel in itself, something we don't see these days. Well done Claire my girl a great set of books, keep up the good work !!!!
An interesting concept with a series of books set around a luxury island hotel resort dedicated to the BDSM community. Each book has a male dominant and female submissive character as the main focus and there is variation in the developing relationships between these along with variation in the physical interactions between them.
It is natural to empathise with some of the stories more than others but on the whole the set is enjoyable. Rather than taking them one after the other I read other books with a different focus in between coming back to this series.
Love, Love, Love the Desire Island series! I had read a few of the stories, so scooped up the boxset to get the rest. I loved how each story brought two people together that sparked from the start, seemed to complete one another, but a future for each couple was not without working through issues of their past. The steam level is 10+ that will have you turning the pages till you end each of the 6 stories. There is definitely something in the air at Desire Island!
I love the writing of Ms. Thompson. These books, like all the others I have read, are filled with passionate, erotic, breathtaking, sensual scenes that pull me in and hold my attention from beginning to end. Thank you Claire Thompson. Desire Island is an erotic, exciting, and totally enthralling atmosphere, where each person can learn to fulfill their dreams.
One True Master Skylar has been part of the BDSM community for a number of years, but she has yet to find a Dom that can fulfill her deepest desires. Mostly, she has scened with wannabes who have not lived up to her expectations. Now, she has won a 1 week BDSM vacation at Desire Island, a club devoted to bringing your darkest, secret fantasies to life. Will she choose a simple BDSM vacation or will she explore deeper? She fills out a questionnaire and talks to her trainer on line. Will they connect emotionally as well as physically? Will she be able to accept her training and all it entails? Will this lifestyle be the place she craves or will she return home and resume her previous experiences with a new outlook? How will she decide?
Two of a Kind Two mature people involved in the BDSM lifestyle are employed on Desire Island. Dylan is a Dom and couple trainer working to minimize risks while, Kendra is a dessert chef. Each is silently harboring a past hidden pain. Dylan having lost someone he cared about and Kendra trying to overcome and heal from a horrific “incident”. Somehow, when they meet, they are irresistibly drawn to each other, yet wary of opening their souls too soon. The descriptions of the scenes that Kendra and Dylan engaged in were enticing and alluring and absolutely breath-taking! For me, fire-play was new, and I was dramatically impressed with the way it was presented and contained. This is a sensual, alluring and exciting story of two people who are able to overcome past pain. Will they be able to find love with each other?
Three Strikes Abbie is a staff expert on positions training at Desire Island. She has been attracted to Master Ryan for quite some time. He has been friendly and chose her to work with him in several training scenes. But, a new door was opened when she was able to “buy” him on auction night. He was amazed and enthralled by the beauty he saw within her. What if she is the one he has been waiting for? What should he do to find out? Can she truly be satisfied as his 24/7 power exchange slave? This is one of the most beautiful BDSM stories I have ever read. We are carefully and excitingly led into the desires, emotions and reactions of these two characters, who are searching for a love that fills and rewards their individual needs and desires as well as those of their partner. I have rarely felt such empathy and understanding for the considerate concern and acceptance of both the Master and the slave. This is most definitely a read over and over and over again story.
Four Beautiful Letters: BDSM Sophia is taking a week-long vacation on Desire Island. She is an antique store owner. Nick works in real estate and owns two BDSM clubs. He is looking for a sub ready to challenge her limits. Nick wants to make a connection and explore sensory deprivation. Sophia whole-heartedly agrees. The only problem occurs when Nick is forced to cut his vacation short to work out a large business deal. Does Sophia mind his leaving the island? Is the phenomenal connection between the two of them worth waiting until he is available again? What can they do to remedy this situation?
Five Stars Deep, dark, intense Fire Play grabbed my attention from the start of this tale. And then, it got better. Shani is a staff slave on the Island. She is strong, cooperative, and determined to escape from a painful past. Something changes when she meets Adam, a world-wide leather-maker for the BDSM community. Their attraction is mutual, and Adam would like to encourage Shani to take a short trip with him to exhibit his wares. Will Shani agree to take this trip with Adam that will bring her back to her home town? If she goes, will she be forced to face her negative past? Will Adam be able to help her overcome her fears? As usual, Claire Thompson’s writing lures you into a beautiful, alluring story that compels you to keep reading until the very end.
Six Signs of Submission Lainey is a fitness instructor on Desire Island. Lucky for her, Cooper becomes quickly attracted to her. He decides to take part in her class and they both wish to get to know the other one better. Lainey is a strong, independent, alluring, COMPETITIVE woman who is fascinated by the concept of BDSM, although she is positive that she is definitely not a submissive. Cooper is an outgoing, experienced Dom, who is able to gently lead her into her first sensory session. Slowly and ever so carefully Cooper and her girlfriends on the Island are helping Lainey to discover her own desires. Her mind objects to the word “submissive,” while her heart and her soul reach out for the fulfillment to be found. Cooper is ever so gently helping her to experiment with erotic pain and pleasure encased within her own being.
As with all of Claire Thompson’s writing, I highly recommend these books. They are full of attraction, caring, and especially erotic experiences.
A pleasant read, and a good setting, but not as deep as I'm used to with this author. Few chances were taken, no edginess, and the stories followed very similar formula, as did the characters. A couple of them were...not unlikeable exactly, but neither did I feel an investment in them.
There’s six full length books in this Desire Island box set. Desire Island is a BDSM resort, very exclusive and upscale. It was an intriguing & exciting read. And am voluntarily leaving my review.
These stories were AMAZING! I couldn’t decide which one was my favorite! Each time I finished one I thought, “This is my favorite.” But then I’d read the next one and again think, “This is my favorite.” And then I decided not to even choose. They were all lovely stories and I loved them all! There’s a wonderful feeling that comes over me when I read stories about strong women who may or may not be in the D/s lifestyle, thinking they aren’t strong enough to totally give themselves to another person…and then discover that they really are strong enough! All of these stories had such women. Caelan and Skylar Skylar wins a trip to Desire Island. She’s been somewhat in the lifestyle for a while but had yet to meet a man who could take her where she needed to go…she even thought maybe she was a Domme. Then she meets Caelan. Reading about their journey made me smile the whole way through, as Caelan showed Skylar that she was an amazing and strong woman, who was submissive to her soul. And along the way, Caelan was kind of shocked that he was actually falling in love with her! A very happy ending as Caelan learns something new about himself and Skylar reaches her full potential as a sub…not just any sub…Caelan’s sub and the love of his life. Dylan and Kendra Kendra went through a traumatic experience with a man who claimed he was a Dom and abused her trust and hurt her badly. Yet she still wanted to explore her submissive side, but was a little hesitant. When her cousin Abbie invites her to come to Desire Island, she doesn’t hesitate to take a break and head to the island. Then she meets Dylan. Dylan shows her she’s still a very strong woman with a lot to give and that if she just shares her pain with him, he can help ease that pain. Her journey was a powerful one to read and I enjoyed this story immensely. Ryan and Abbie Ryan is a co-owner of the resort on Desire Island. Abbie is a staff slave. Abbie has had a crush on Ryan for about a year and when the opportunity comes up during the auction, she makes her move. Although she’s afraid, her friends encourage her to give it a try. How else will she know if he reciprocates her feelings? So she bids on Ryan and wins (in a sneaky way), but still a win! After their night together, Ryan is impressed with Abbie, not only her loveliness but her strong submissive side. So he brings her to the cottage for a week to explore their connection and to find out if she could be the one he’s been waiting for…the one who will totally submit to him in every way. Their journey is also powerful to read about and the ending is…well, you’ll have to read it to find out!
Nick and Sophia Nick is a workaholic! He goes to the island to take a break from the rat race. Sophia is a woman who loves to be dominated and she isn’t afraid to admit it. She asks Nick to scene with her from the very beginning and of course he’s very willing to do so! They slowly begin a relationship, but Sophia is afraid that Nick will choose to work over her when they are off-island and his phone keeps ringing. He just has to close this one deal… Once he realizes what he’s doing he tells himself to prioritize his life and he doesn’t really need more money, but he does need Sophia. Once he realizes that life does not have to be all about work, he claims his woman! Adam and Shani This story was very emotional for me to read, but I loved it. Adam is a leather guy…he creates whips and cuffs and all sorts of items for the BDSM lifestyle…and he’s very good at it. Shani is a staff slave who catches his eye. Shani has gone through a very dark time and is still a little gun shy, but with Adam’s help, she pulls free of the metaphorical chains that have been holding her back and comes back to being the woman she was. This story was so beautiful it made me cry, and I was pulling for Shani through the entire story. The ending was magical and beautiful and I absolutely loved reading Shani and Adam’s story. Cooper and Lainey Cooper is a very rich man who just sold his business and is taking a break by heading to Desire Island. There he meets Lainey. Lainey is very adamant that she is not submissive and Cooper thinks maybe she protests just a little too much. She’s very competitive, having grown up with three older brothers and thinks there’s just no way she can be submissive. Cooper helps her see that she doesn’t need to label herself as a “slave” or a “submissive” but just to feel and let go. He wants her to see that she can be submissive without becoming a “slave” and still be the strong woman she is. It was truly lovely to read this story and to watch Lainey discover her submissive side. All in all, I have to say these books were phenomenal! If you’re a fan of Claire Thompson but have not read this series, you are going to love them! If you haven’t read a book by this author, well this would be a most excellent way to start! Loved this series!!!
One True Master – Skylar Mora and Caelan Macauley – Skylar is looking for a strong Dom. She wins a week long vacation to Desire Island. Caelan trains submissives. Can he train Skylar?
Two of a Kind – Kendra Wilson and Dylan Gold – Kendra is Abbie’s cousin. Abbie is a sub slave on Desire Island. Kendra is hired as the new pastry chef. 5 years ago she had a bad BDSM experience that left her with scars. Dylan Gold is in charge of the new couples and Dom training program. He also has a bad BDSM experience in his past which pushed him to create this safety program. Can they have a great experience together?
Three Strikes – Abbie and Ryan Summerlin - Abbie is a sub slave and Ryan is the co-owner of Desire Island. Abbie has had a crush on Ryan for the whole year she has worked on Desire Island. Ryan unconsciously seeks out Abbie when needing a sub for his demonstrations. Abbie wins Ryan in the reverse auction. Will one night together change things?
Four Beautiful Letters – Sophia Weinstein and Nick Kinkaid – Both are visiting from New York for a week. Both own their own businesses. Sophia owns an antique store called Sophia’s Treasures. Nick is into real estate and also owns 2 BDSM Clubs in New York. They scene together and have an instant connection. However, Nick cuts his trip short because of business problems. Can Sophia be with a workaholic? Will Nick give up his intense work schedule for Sophia?
Five Stars – Shani Youngblood and Adam Hawk – Shani has been a staff slave on Desire Island for over a year. She makes beautiful jewelry in her spare time. She ran away from her life in Portland due to a bad experience. Adam is a leather craftsman and friend of Ryan Summerlin, co-owner of Desire Island. Shani and Adam have an immediate connection. He leaves for a work trip but ends up coming back to see Shani on Desire Island. He is going to Portland for a BDSM Connections show and wants Shani to go with him and sell her jewelry. Will Shani go to Portland to face her past? Will Adam be able to help Shani?
Six Signs of Submission – Lainey Miller and Cooper Hanson – Lainey is the new fitness instructor. She doesn’t live on the Island and has never truly participated in the BDSM lifestyle. Cooper Hanson is a college friend of Caelen Macauley. He is a tech genius who spent the last 6 years working hard. He sold his business and is on Desire Island to relax. Cooper sees Lainey at the gym and takes her aerobic step class just to observe her. When they see each other at the nightly dungeon party, Cooper convinces her to do a small, exploratory scene with him. Will Cooper show Lainey her submissive side without freaking her out?
Loved the whole series. The characters were all fun and unique.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I haven't read a lot of true BDSM stories but the Desire Island series in this box set and other stories I have read by this author seem authentic and pretty hardcore in comparison. Some activities in these stories, while real in true life, seem pretty crazy to me - I mean who in the heck every came up with the idea of a vacuum bed??? In any case, the romances in this box set, whether Master/slave or Dom/sub, are each enjoyable in their own way. The writing is great, clear and concise, and it's obvious these characters really care about each other, which is the most important factor in any story, to me.
One True Master: Skylar wins a week at the Desire Island BDSM resort and her life will never be the same! In Master Caelin she finds the master of her heart and he teaches her true submission. This story is sweetly romantic and very enjoyable.
Two of a Kind: I love the instant connection between Kendra and Master Dylan. It's a really great, emotional love story about two people who find that sharing their secret pain with each other is freeing and only brings them closer together in their Dom/submissive romantic relationship.
Three Strikes: Abbie's heart belongs to Master Ryan, although he is not aware of her feelings until she wins him in an auction. In Abbie, Ryan discovers the slave of his dreams that he despaired of ever finding. I liked the characters, especially Abbie who is really sweet. There are two scenes that I found a bit disturbing but aside from that I enjoyed this story.
Four Beautiful Letters - BDSM: I really liked Nick and Sophia's story. They are likable characters, perfectly matched as BDSM partners, but Nick's priority seems to be business which could derail the relationship he's begun building with Sophia.
Five Stars: The book blurb description of sweet Shani is perfect, "Shani keeps her wounded spirit a secret, letting nothing disturb her outer tranquility." What I love about Adam is that he's thoughtful, caring, and supportive as he strives to help Shani let go of her past and spread her wings. They are true soulmates.
Six Signs of Submission: Lainey is positive she's not a sub but Cooper is determined to prove her wrong. He patiently coaxes her along, guiding her in exploration of her submissive side. I really liked these characters and the trust that builds between them. This is one my favorites in this box set.
Claire Thompson’s Desire Island series will have you on the end of your chair waiting on the next “scene”. The characters are well developed and I felt a connection with them. They are so much fun to read. I hope you enjoy the stories as much as I did.
One True Master: Skylar is unhappy in her job. Her boss calls her “little lady” and demeans her at every opportunity. She plays at BDSM but always wants to top from the bottom. When she wins a trip to Desire Island, Skylar decides to chose a 24/7 slave master package. But is it too much? She will be training with a true dominant not just a poser/want-to-be. Can she adjust? We What happens when her week of vacation ends? Back to the job she hates?
Two of a Kind: Some scars are physical and some are mental. But how do you overcome those scars? Or can you? Dylan and Kendra are both fighting those emotional demons. How can they fight these demons? Will they help or hurt each other? What is the answer?
Three Strikes: Three strikes isn’t an out in this story. Abbie has the hots for Master Ryan but he appears to be clueless to her desire. Ryan has been searching for that special sun/slave for a long time now. But does she exist? Abbie takes matters into her own hands when Master Ryan enters a reverse auction. With the help of her friends, she is able to pool her play money and win the bid. After a good time, he abruptly leaves her. What should she do now? Why did he leave like that? Ryan’s business partner helps him make some decisions. But is it enough?
Four Beautiful Letters: Sophia is a erotic masochist who likes to have her intensity limits pushed. She has a hard time finding that special Dom who knows how to push those limits. Nick meets Sophia and decides he wants to be the Dom of her dreams. However, he is a workaholic and allows work to shorten his island vacation. Good intentions but broken promises threaten their budding relationship. This sends Sophia to another BDSM club to find what she had with Nick. Can she find it? What about Nick?
Five Stars: Adam met Shani when he visited Desire Island for a weekend and both were captivated. Adam made a surprise visit to reconnect with Shani and invites her to join him at a BBSM exhibit in Portland. Issues from a previous encounter have to be addressed before they can advance from casual scenes.
I received an advanced copy for my honest opinion.
This six book box set is great! That sentiment is for the books themselves, the great cover, and the price ($1.17 a book when they are normally $3 each, yes please).
One True Master - Skylar and Caelan - Skyler has won a trip to Desire Island where literally all her fantasies can come true (for a week anyways). Caelan is the sub trainer at the island and is always excited and welcoming of any new submissives that come to the island. There meeting may be a fling but maybe it could be something more.
Two of a Kind - Dylan and Kendra - Kendra starts working at the resort since her cousin also works there. She is just needing a break from other life. Dylan is also working there with similar reasons. When they first get together, it is nothing more than being work partners but having the same needs and desires pushes people together.
Three Strikes - Abbie and Ryan - Both people have been coworkers for awhile now. In Two of a Kind, a Dom auction is being held and it is Abbie who wins Master Ryan. Obviously excited but now uncertain how things will progress, they throw caution to the wind to see what could happen between them.
Four Beautiful Letters - Nick and Sophia - Two people happen to be at the same place at the same time. Neither has any goals other than a vacation only to realize that they also live in the same area when NOT on vacation. Seeing as they are in to the same things, they may as well see if there is something more once the vacation ends.
Five Stars - Shani and Adam - Shani is a resort slave, living on the island for the purpose of other peoples pleasure. Being a demo bottom is nothing new to her and enjoys the different aspects in can bring. This one specifically when she finds out that Adam was the one running the scene the whole time and she did not know. Though Shani lives on the island, an opportunity comes up for her to confront her past and to explain to her family why she chose a job that is so far away. This is the push she needed to be able to make a relationship work with Adam.
Six Signs of Submission - Lainey and Cooper - Lainey is an instructor at the resort. Though kink friendly, she never put a title on her own life. When Cooper comes to vacation and offers to scene with her, she is left wondering if maybe has a role all along.
All in all, great series to read and though it is fiction, everything is spot on for this lifestyle.
6 Claire Thompson BDSM stories for the price of 1? Um yes, please!
If you know this author, the Desire Island books deliver her usual trademarks - good pacing, fun dialogue, engaging storylines, great characters; some you love, some you hate, and some you just want to be punished by, and of course intense BDSM scenes. I mean, let's be honest, that's what we came for, yeah? Forgive the pun. So here's the thing for me, even though I kinda want to skip to the next sex scene, Claire just draws me in with her storytelling magic.
Book 1 is Skylar and Caelen's story. She's a masochist who has trouble giving up control and he is slave trainer at the island resort who just hasn't yet found the right sub. The complimentary week of slave training Skylar won is the perfect opportunity to let down her walls and find her HEA.
In book 2 we meet Dylan and Kendra who have both experienced significant trauma. The couple finds healing together in the Desire Island dungeon.
Book 3 is Abbie and Ryan's story. Staff slave Abbie finally acts on her year long crush, winning her boss, resort owner Master Ryan in a reverse slave auction. The intensity ratchets up quickly as these two find compatibility coupled with smoking hot chemistry.
Nick and Sophia push the boundaries of BDSM edge play without safewords in Book 4. Despite neither of them looking for more than a brief encounter, fate has other ideas for their future.
The stars align for Adam and spiritual dreamer Shani in Book 5. Despiter her secrets and previous wounds, worldly Dom Adam is able to coax her out of the past and into the relationship she never knew she always wanted.
In the final installment of the series, we meet Lainey and Cooper. She's a curious and resistant submissive trying to convince herself she's too strong a woman to let a man control her between the sheets. Fortunately Cooper provides gentle but persistent guidance to reveal her truest nature. Clever Cooper uses Lainey's competitive athleticism to spark the flame of her budding submission with a challenge and a bet she can't turn down.
In summary the Desire Island box set offers 6 unique stories with characters that flow throughout and a fun tropical setting for BDSM love connections.
Do not miss this wonderful collection of BDSM tales. You will not want to miss it.
One True Master I really enjoyed this story. The journey these two characters take is emotional, sexy and so fabulous. Skylar learned so much about herself during her stay on the island and Master Caelan was so perfect for her. If you like well written BDSM this is the story for you.
Two of a Kind This is my favorite book so far. I really liked how Dylan and Kendra related to each other. This is a softer BDSM book than some of this author’s but it is a fabulous story. There is a sweetness to their scenes and intimacies. A great read.
Three Strikes What a sweet BDSM story. Ryan had been so focused on getting the island up and running he had stopped looking for a sub of his own. Abbie had fallen for Ryan a long time ago but kept it a secret. The story of their connecting is well written and beautiful. A truly enjoyable read.
Four Beautiful Letters – BDSM This is a fantastic story. I really enjoyed the characters of Sophia and Nick. Although I wanted to smack Nick upside the head several times. He did finally figure it out. The BDSM scenes were very unique and very sexy. This was also interesting because not all of it took place on the island. Some of the story was in the city where they had to juggle real-life issues with their desires. An extremely well-written story.
Five Stars A sweet BDSM story. Shani and Adam's connection was awesome and inspiring. I loved how she was so in tune with the world around her. Shani is a great character and Adam is her perfect foil.
Six Signs of Submission A different tale. Lainey does not think she is submissive and does not have any experience in the kink world. Cooper quickly finds himself fascinated with her. Their journey is interesting and sensual.
What an awesome read! Hard to stop. Well written, credible, highly erotic, good character development. This author certainly knows BDSM. These 6 stories focus on pain/pleasure aspect. All books stand alone, centred on an exclusive (expensive) BDSM resort, so individuals may appear in several books. One True Master: Skylar wins a free week at resort, chooses the 24/7 intensive program and is assigned to Caelan, her Dom. She struggles to submit. Their chemistry is off the charts! What happens as the end of her week draws nigh? Two of a Kind: Kendra is feisty, in pain, damaged by her history of poor BDSM experiences. A holiday becomes a permanent job. Attraction to new (Dom) Dylan, fireworks! Dylan is harbouring a dark secret, which causes a dramatic scene. Can the pair overcome their damaged pasts? Three Strikes: Abbie, a staff slave at the resort for a year, has apparently unrequited attraction for Ryan, a Dom. She is encouraged to do something about it, and wins a raffle for a weekend with him. Chemistry alert! Ryan tries to fight his attraction, because of his damaged past. Will this kinky opportunity lead to anything beyond the weekend? Four Beautiful Letters: The best book so far in the series. Nick, wealthy workaholic (a Dom) is on holiday in at Desire Island, and finding it hard to leave work behind. Sophia, a hardcore masochist without limits, is on a week’s holiday. A long time BDSM player, she has found it hard to find a Dom who can meet her needs. The couple really connect, in and out of play. Work/play and desire/commitment priorities/conflicts. Nick leaves early, will they meet up again?
Wow! Just wow! This is the box set with all six full length books in Claire’s fantastic Desire Island series and ever single one is amazing. Basically Desire Island is a BDSM resort, very exclusive and upscale. The books focus on the love stories of both guests and staff and can easily be read out of order. Each one focuses on a different love story and they all have their own HEA. I won’t get into summarizing each book as there are already plenty of others that have done this and no one wants to keep reading long reviews telling the same thing. Instead I want to say that each story is wonderful, each couple was a perfect match with strong, delicious, dominant men and interesting, relatable, submissive women. Chemistry was everywhere and the scenes were the stuff of dreams. It goes without saying these are very much adult books and not for anyone not interested in BDSM romances. Now, if I can just find the resort’s phone number or website, I’m booking a vacation there stat!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
One True Master A great story of going after what you really want, even though it scares you, and finding one's true self in the process.
Two of a Kind An apt name for this novella. Dylan and Kendra had amazing chemistry between them and connected and trusted each other when it really mattered.
Three Strikes Knowing who she wanted, Abbie waited for a year, for a chance to find out if Ryan felt the same way she did. Does he?
Four Beautiful Letters When the connection is there, the trust, and the chemistry, you have the trifecta to build a deeply and amazing relationship to last beyond a lifetime.
Five Stars Another story full of resilience. You never truly loose yourself, you just temporarily forget who you are and what your are capable of.
Six Signs of Submission You don’t need to define yourself in any one specific way. Just be in the moment and keep an open mind. You never know what will happen, when there are endless possibilities. I am voluntarily leaving a review after receiving an ARC.