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The Dark Garden
If you loved Fifty Shades of Grey . . . get ready to enter The Dark Garden.
A deliciously potent tale of one woman’s quest for self-discovery.
Rowan Cassidy likes to be in charge—especially in her personal life. As a mistress at Club Privé, the most exclusive bondage/S & M club on the West Coast, Rowan can live out her dominant fantasies safely, and with complete control—until the night Christian Thorne walks in. Self-confident and sophisticated, he’s a natural dominant if Rowan’s ever seen one. Yet she can’t stop thinking about him and imagining his touch.
Christian has returned home, hoping to break free from his dissatisfaction and malaise—and discovers the cure in Rowan. He’s dying to get his skilled hands on her and watch her surrender, to unlock the mystery of her that captivates him. Determined to be her master, he makes Rowan a daring proposition: give herself over to him for thirty days.
Rowan finds Christian’s offer terrifying—and impossible to resist. But abandoning herself to Christian’s power might be more than she can handle. . . . Or it might be the realization of her true nature and the dark garden within her. There will be only one way to find out. And once the game has begun, there’s no turning back.
A deliciously potent tale of one woman’s quest for self-discovery.
Rowan Cassidy likes to be in charge—especially in her personal life. As a mistress at Club Privé, the most exclusive bondage/S & M club on the West Coast, Rowan can live out her dominant fantasies safely, and with complete control—until the night Christian Thorne walks in. Self-confident and sophisticated, he’s a natural dominant if Rowan’s ever seen one. Yet she can’t stop thinking about him and imagining his touch.
Christian has returned home, hoping to break free from his dissatisfaction and malaise—and discovers the cure in Rowan. He’s dying to get his skilled hands on her and watch her surrender, to unlock the mystery of her that captivates him. Determined to be her master, he makes Rowan a daring proposition: give herself over to him for thirty days.
Rowan finds Christian’s offer terrifying—and impossible to resist. But abandoning herself to Christian’s power might be more than she can handle. . . . Or it might be the realization of her true nature and the dark garden within her. There will be only one way to find out. And once the game has begun, there’s no turning back.
321 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2007
221 people are currently reading
4042 people want to read
About the author
Eden Bradley
134 books1,125 followersNew York Times & USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author Eden Bradley aka Eve Berlin has published a number of novels and novellas, both print and e-books, with Berkley Heat, Bantam/Delta, Harlequin Spice & HQN, Black Lace Books and Samhain Publishing, as well as venturing into self-publishing. Her books have been translated into German, French, Romanian, Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, Czech, Polish, Indonesian and Japanese. Eden has appeared regularly on Playboy Radio and conducts workshops on writing craft and writing about sex. Eden speaks regularly on BDSM safety, psychology & practice, as well as sexual positivity for women.
She loves art, shoes, tattoos, reading smutty books, chocolate and sex, of course, not necessarily in that order. You can visit her website: EdenBradley.com or her group FB page Dirty Minds Social Club!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/EdenBradley
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorEdenBradley.Ev...
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/11102...
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/edenandeve/
All of her book ratings at Goodreads reflect her favorite books, from those she loved to lifelong keepers.
She loves art, shoes, tattoos, reading smutty books, chocolate and sex, of course, not necessarily in that order. You can visit her website: EdenBradley.com or her group FB page Dirty Minds Social Club!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/EdenBradley
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorEdenBradley.Ev...
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/11102...
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/edenandeve/
All of her book ratings at Goodreads reflect her favorite books, from those she loved to lifelong keepers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 332 reviews
August 4, 2008
So I think I might be more into the BD part than the SM part of “BDSM”. This book is all about the SM part. The Dark Garden is about Rowan, who likes to be in control at all times. She is like this because of a past hurt when she tried to be a submissive person. Christian is also a Dom and feels that Rowan really is a sub and needs to show her the truth about herself. Christian asks for 30 days to convince Rowan that she really is a sub. The rest of the story is about Christian breaking down Rowan’s defenses and proving it to her.
Like I said, this book is total SM. The couple actually makes a deal that there will be no intercourse. I did learn all kinds of interesting things about SM. It was very clear that the author is familiar with the area or did a lot of research.
-subspace- the place where a sub goes to be able to tolerate and even enjoy the pain. A half-conscious, if you will
- vampire glove- A toy that has little needles on the end used for spanking
- lots of floggers….
Anyway, I was just not emotionally involved with this couple. There is another couple in the story that I liked much better. So if you are really into SM, then this is the book for you, but don’t go in expecting much else.
Like I said, this book is total SM. The couple actually makes a deal that there will be no intercourse. I did learn all kinds of interesting things about SM. It was very clear that the author is familiar with the area or did a lot of research.
-subspace- the place where a sub goes to be able to tolerate and even enjoy the pain. A half-conscious, if you will
- vampire glove- A toy that has little needles on the end used for spanking
- lots of floggers….
Anyway, I was just not emotionally involved with this couple. There is another couple in the story that I liked much better. So if you are really into SM, then this is the book for you, but don’t go in expecting much else.
October 24, 2013
DNF at 50%. Well, there went 3 hours I'm never getting back. On the plus side it was written better than FSOG (Ana Steele wasn't a character, so of course it was)...that is, if you have a strong aversion to plot and characters with even the slightest bit of substance.
Mini rant: I can't stand in books when characters are drawn to each other because they suspect there's "something more" to the other, WITHOUT HAVING A FREAKING CONVERSATION WITH EACH OTHER. There's absolutely no way you can tell there's more to a person than meets the eye without saying a word, or a gesture or anything to each other. This is always done in shitty romance/eroticas. I'm so bored of it. Authors: force your characters to communicate. I don't care how, text, square dance, speak Klingon...whatever! But for gods sake, one glance and a raise of an eyebrow does not equal an emotional connection!!!
Rant over.
Mini rant: I can't stand in books when characters are drawn to each other because they suspect there's "something more" to the other, WITHOUT HAVING A FREAKING CONVERSATION WITH EACH OTHER. There's absolutely no way you can tell there's more to a person than meets the eye without saying a word, or a gesture or anything to each other. This is always done in shitty romance/eroticas. I'm so bored of it. Authors: force your characters to communicate. I don't care how, text, square dance, speak Klingon...whatever! But for gods sake, one glance and a raise of an eyebrow does not equal an emotional connection!!!
Rant over.
June 2, 2012
iked this book alot...lots of sex with some story added...I need a cigarette (I dont smoke lol)
February 27, 2016
I really enjoyed the two sides of this story. You get to see what happened before and what is happening now. An enjoyable and hot read.
Read
July 15, 2015First line of the Synopsis....
If you loved Fifty Shades of Grey. . . get ready to enter The Dark Garden.
Ah, no thanks.
If you loved Fifty Shades of Grey. . . get ready to enter The Dark Garden.
Ah, no thanks.
June 17, 2010
This was one of those books that totally killed any ability to do housework. I could not put this book down. It grabbed me from the first chapter and I was hooked.
I saw myself in Rowan's shoes more than I saw her. I was drawn that deeply into the story, and I think I identified with the character on such a multitude of levels.
I usually stay far away from any story dealing with a recovering rape victem, and I wasn't aware that was an aspect in this story until I was insanely vested in the book. But the author handled it so well and with just enough detail and emotion that I was blown away.
Rowan is taken to explore the submissive side she has blocked and in doing so she discovers what and who she really wants to be.
I also loved that there was more than just BDSM style sex involved in this book. There were romantic elements as well and that is what really made me love this book. The tenderness that went along with it was great.
Truthfully I could have done without most of April's story and loved this book as a novella instead. I understand why she was there as a friend, and how her story told Rowan so many things about her own situation, but it felt added in at times. And at other times, perhaps the page breaks on the kindle didn't help, I would have to re-read to figure out which character I was listening to. I could be prejudiced because I saw so much of myself in Rowan, and didn't identify well with April, but it felt a little unnecessary to me.
All in all I loved this book, and it was well worth the higher price tag.
I saw myself in Rowan's shoes more than I saw her. I was drawn that deeply into the story, and I think I identified with the character on such a multitude of levels.
I usually stay far away from any story dealing with a recovering rape victem, and I wasn't aware that was an aspect in this story until I was insanely vested in the book. But the author handled it so well and with just enough detail and emotion that I was blown away.
Rowan is taken to explore the submissive side she has blocked and in doing so she discovers what and who she really wants to be.
I also loved that there was more than just BDSM style sex involved in this book. There were romantic elements as well and that is what really made me love this book. The tenderness that went along with it was great.
Truthfully I could have done without most of April's story and loved this book as a novella instead. I understand why she was there as a friend, and how her story told Rowan so many things about her own situation, but it felt added in at times. And at other times, perhaps the page breaks on the kindle didn't help, I would have to re-read to figure out which character I was listening to. I could be prejudiced because I saw so much of myself in Rowan, and didn't identify well with April, but it felt a little unnecessary to me.
All in all I loved this book, and it was well worth the higher price tag.
February 23, 2013
The Dark Garden has to be one of the worst books I've ever read. The description says that it's similar to 50 Shades which it's not. Unless you count that both books have Dom's named Christian. There was no plot in this book and it was wicked boring. I would skip pages and skim over paragraphs because I couldn't wait for this book to end. I found that I like the secondary storyline about April & Decker better. They're the only reason i gave this book 1 star. I couldn't stand Rowan and Christian & I had no connection to them. I thought Christian was a pansy and I hated that the author gave him long hair that he would 'smooth out'. Ugh, and Rowan was a self pitying 'I had a bad boyfriend in the past' whiner.
I know this book was written before 50 and was most likely re-released because of the 50 phenomenon.They need to stop saying its like 50 though because at least 50 had a plot and likable characters.
I know this book was written before 50 and was most likely re-released because of the 50 phenomenon.They need to stop saying its like 50 though because at least 50 had a plot and likable characters.
June 17, 2012
4.5 stars
Of all the "dominant" males I've read, Christian Thorne can be my dom anytime. I absolutely love love love the way he took care of Rowan. He just didn't fuck her right away. He took the time to get thru to her and the sensuality he gave her made my heart aflutter.
Side story with April and Decker I also really enjoyed. I just wish we had Decker's POV and why he didn't want to fall in love with April. I also kinda wished April would have gone to Club Prive and have submitted to another Dom in front of Decker to show him what he gave up. IMO, she forgave him to easily after finding another subbie at his home. Again, wish we had his POV.
Over all review: Loved the book for the sensuality of the story.
Of all the "dominant" males I've read, Christian Thorne can be my dom anytime. I absolutely love love love the way he took care of Rowan. He just didn't fuck her right away. He took the time to get thru to her and the sensuality he gave her made my heart aflutter.
Side story with April and Decker I also really enjoyed. I just wish we had Decker's POV and why he didn't want to fall in love with April. I also kinda wished April would have gone to Club Prive and have submitted to another Dom in front of Decker to show him what he gave up. IMO, she forgave him to easily after finding another subbie at his home. Again, wish we had his POV.
Over all review: Loved the book for the sensuality of the story.
September 21, 2012
I love Eden Bradley because she knows how to write BDSM erotica in a very classy, delicate, smart and romantic way. In The Dark Garden, we are introduced to two couples. Each character is strong and successful and has their own set of limits and expectations when it comes to love, sex and BDSM.
Rowan has issues that she has dealt with by becoming a Domme. Christian instantly recognizes her naturally submissive nature and the chemical attraction between them and he sets out to discover the real Rowan. She agrees with the condition that they do not have sex. This really made the story for me, because there is nothing hotter than a man who will do anything to please a woman, all the while knowing that he won't get anything in return. There are no twisted plot lines, manipulative scenes or evil intentions present in this novel. The other couple - April and Decker, start out as a typical BDSM D/s relationship which quickly develops into a hot, steamy and erotic story.
I alao loved that the techniques were different. How many books have you read that are set at the typical BDSM club with public flogging, nipple clamps and the ever-present hanging cross? Well, this book doesnt have the typical cookie cutter story. All hot scenes occur at home, bringing a sense of private intensity and closeness that you can relate to. Loved the toys! Vampire gloves anyone?
I loved The Dark Garden! Make sure to add it to your To-Read list if you like well-writtem romantic BDSM.
Thank you Eden Bradley, Random House Pulishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with The Dark Garden in exchange for an honest review.
Rowan has issues that she has dealt with by becoming a Domme. Christian instantly recognizes her naturally submissive nature and the chemical attraction between them and he sets out to discover the real Rowan. She agrees with the condition that they do not have sex. This really made the story for me, because there is nothing hotter than a man who will do anything to please a woman, all the while knowing that he won't get anything in return. There are no twisted plot lines, manipulative scenes or evil intentions present in this novel. The other couple - April and Decker, start out as a typical BDSM D/s relationship which quickly develops into a hot, steamy and erotic story.
I alao loved that the techniques were different. How many books have you read that are set at the typical BDSM club with public flogging, nipple clamps and the ever-present hanging cross? Well, this book doesnt have the typical cookie cutter story. All hot scenes occur at home, bringing a sense of private intensity and closeness that you can relate to. Loved the toys! Vampire gloves anyone?
I loved The Dark Garden! Make sure to add it to your To-Read list if you like well-writtem romantic BDSM.
Thank you Eden Bradley, Random House Pulishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with The Dark Garden in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2012
Cover & Title - 4 out of 5
Favorite Line - "I'm going to make love to you, my Rowan."
She smiled. "Yes..."
"And then I'm going to tie you up, work you over with my hands."
"Yes!"
"And then I'm going to make love to you again, for the next eighty years."
"Yes, Christian. I am yours."
He kissed her again; her lips, her chin, her cheeks, then whispered, "And I am yours."
Favorite Character - April
This book was totally mesmerizing. It was a really beautiful discovery of BDSM, love & fulfillment. It was sensual & artistic. The book was written in from multiple points of view. The story consisted of two couples; Rowan & Christian and Decker & April. I really liked all of the characters. I loved the support Rowan & April offered each other it seemed like a lovely friendship.
The sex scenes in this book were very steamy. There were loads of masturbation scenes as well which make me feel really naughty (in a good way) reading for some reason, i guess because they are so personal *shrug*
The book was not smiles & light but yet it didn't get me down, i liked that. I was constantly interested & intrigued throughout the book. I was on the edge of my seat by the end, hoping, praying for a happy ending for them both. I was not disappointed by the ending, everything i could of wanted & more.
I would recommend this book & I would read more by this author.
Click here to visit my book review blog
Favorite Line - "I'm going to make love to you, my Rowan."
She smiled. "Yes..."
"And then I'm going to tie you up, work you over with my hands."
"Yes!"
"And then I'm going to make love to you again, for the next eighty years."
"Yes, Christian. I am yours."
He kissed her again; her lips, her chin, her cheeks, then whispered, "And I am yours."
Favorite Character - April
This book was totally mesmerizing. It was a really beautiful discovery of BDSM, love & fulfillment. It was sensual & artistic. The book was written in from multiple points of view. The story consisted of two couples; Rowan & Christian and Decker & April. I really liked all of the characters. I loved the support Rowan & April offered each other it seemed like a lovely friendship.
The sex scenes in this book were very steamy. There were loads of masturbation scenes as well which make me feel really naughty (in a good way) reading for some reason, i guess because they are so personal *shrug*
The book was not smiles & light but yet it didn't get me down, i liked that. I was constantly interested & intrigued throughout the book. I was on the edge of my seat by the end, hoping, praying for a happy ending for them both. I was not disappointed by the ending, everything i could of wanted & more.
I would recommend this book & I would read more by this author.
Click here to visit my book review blog
October 18, 2012
Read more of my reviews and ramblings at Ana's Attic Sexy Tales
The Dark Garden by Eden Bradley was an artistic, sensual BDSM-lite novel. It wasn’t so much about the club, or the toys, or the sex, but much more about discovering your true self. The novel was well written, and told in a very classy, sensual way.
Rowan is a Domme, at least at first. But she is feeling some dissatisfaction with this position. It just isn’t as fulfilling as it used to be. At one time she was submissive, but after a terrible relationship in college, she decided that nobody would ever take advantage of her again. So she became a Top. One evening, a gorgeous hunk of Dom, Christian, walks into the club, and there is an instant connection and attraction between them. He quickly sees that she is hiding a submissive persona underneath that Domme facade.
Christian is an artist who just came back from 6 years in Europe. Primarily a sculpture (stone) he can’t help but want to draw her, paint her and sculpt her. Why?
“Because you’re beautiful to me. Because I love the lines of your body, the shape of your face, even your hands. Your bone structure is perfect. And maybe because I never want to forget you.”
But more than that, he is drawn to her, and his desire to discover more consumes him immediately. Though Rowan is attracted to him, (in fact, she fantasizes about him), she knows nothing can happen because they are both tops.
Until Christian proposes a deal: 30 days he Tops, she bottoms. No sex. Just to see if what her true nature is. Though Rowan finally accepts the challenge, she has a lot of difficulty with it. She constantly denies her own nature, has panic attacks and runs away. Christian is extremely patient and pushes her limits while being patient and loving. He is the perfect Dom.
He wrapped his fist in her glorious cascade of dark hair, pulled her hair back firmly, and spoke softly into her ear.
“You’re doing beautifully, Rowan. But I have more in store for you. Are you ready?”
She gasped.
“Are you?” He tugged a little harder on her hair. “Tell me.”
“Yes!” she hissed.
At first, there is no sex, just Christian dominating Rowan. There is lots of flogging and a new toy I had never heard of, a “vampire glove”, a leather glove with sharp points in the fingers. There is a lot of ‘going into subspace’ which sounds awesome, but I couldn’t see ever turning my brain off that much for something like that to happen to me.
There is also another couple in this book, April, Rowan’s friend, and a sub from the club, and Decker, a Dom who doesn’t commit. I enjoyed their story, and would have loved to have read more about them.
Likes:
-There were a lot of beautiful, artistic descriptions throughout the book.
-Christian’s patience with Rowan.
-Watching Rowan’s journey to self discovery
Dislikes:
-Though I loved April and Decker’s story, it was more like reading two books in one. I just didn’t think they needed to be in the same book. I would rather have read two shorter novellas.
-There was talk about what happened to Rowan, but we either never really find out all the details, or it doesn’t seem like enough to change her that drastically.
My Rating: 3.75 stars 4.25 for heat
I enjoyed this book very much and recommend it. Something held me back from totally falling in love though. I didn’t love Rowan’s character, and though I loved April and Decker’s story, I found that it distracted me from Rowan and Christian.
Side note: This book was originally published in 2007, and re-released with a new cover and a new blurb adding it to the “if you liked Fifty Shades” category. ***Random House sent me the copy in exchange for a fair review.
The Dark Garden by Eden Bradley was an artistic, sensual BDSM-lite novel. It wasn’t so much about the club, or the toys, or the sex, but much more about discovering your true self. The novel was well written, and told in a very classy, sensual way.
Rowan is a Domme, at least at first. But she is feeling some dissatisfaction with this position. It just isn’t as fulfilling as it used to be. At one time she was submissive, but after a terrible relationship in college, she decided that nobody would ever take advantage of her again. So she became a Top. One evening, a gorgeous hunk of Dom, Christian, walks into the club, and there is an instant connection and attraction between them. He quickly sees that she is hiding a submissive persona underneath that Domme facade.
Christian is an artist who just came back from 6 years in Europe. Primarily a sculpture (stone) he can’t help but want to draw her, paint her and sculpt her. Why?
“Because you’re beautiful to me. Because I love the lines of your body, the shape of your face, even your hands. Your bone structure is perfect. And maybe because I never want to forget you.”
But more than that, he is drawn to her, and his desire to discover more consumes him immediately. Though Rowan is attracted to him, (in fact, she fantasizes about him), she knows nothing can happen because they are both tops.
Until Christian proposes a deal: 30 days he Tops, she bottoms. No sex. Just to see if what her true nature is. Though Rowan finally accepts the challenge, she has a lot of difficulty with it. She constantly denies her own nature, has panic attacks and runs away. Christian is extremely patient and pushes her limits while being patient and loving. He is the perfect Dom.
He wrapped his fist in her glorious cascade of dark hair, pulled her hair back firmly, and spoke softly into her ear.
“You’re doing beautifully, Rowan. But I have more in store for you. Are you ready?”
She gasped.
“Are you?” He tugged a little harder on her hair. “Tell me.”
“Yes!” she hissed.
At first, there is no sex, just Christian dominating Rowan. There is lots of flogging and a new toy I had never heard of, a “vampire glove”, a leather glove with sharp points in the fingers. There is a lot of ‘going into subspace’ which sounds awesome, but I couldn’t see ever turning my brain off that much for something like that to happen to me.
There is also another couple in this book, April, Rowan’s friend, and a sub from the club, and Decker, a Dom who doesn’t commit. I enjoyed their story, and would have loved to have read more about them.
Likes:
-There were a lot of beautiful, artistic descriptions throughout the book.
-Christian’s patience with Rowan.
-Watching Rowan’s journey to self discovery
Dislikes:
-Though I loved April and Decker’s story, it was more like reading two books in one. I just didn’t think they needed to be in the same book. I would rather have read two shorter novellas.
-There was talk about what happened to Rowan, but we either never really find out all the details, or it doesn’t seem like enough to change her that drastically.
My Rating: 3.75 stars 4.25 for heat
I enjoyed this book very much and recommend it. Something held me back from totally falling in love though. I didn’t love Rowan’s character, and though I loved April and Decker’s story, I found that it distracted me from Rowan and Christian.
Side note: This book was originally published in 2007, and re-released with a new cover and a new blurb adding it to the “if you liked Fifty Shades” category. ***Random House sent me the copy in exchange for a fair review.
November 5, 2012
FINALLY.. a BDSM book that isn't about a millionaire swooning a virgin and trying to turn her to the dark side (lol). I think everyone now knows what BDSM is about (since reading Fifty) and doesn't need a whole tutorial in every book. That's the main reason why I like this book, it cuts out all of the pain-is-pleasure, give-yourself-to-me, do-you-trust-me.. yada-yada. Its just a simple, wonderfully written, luxuriously steamy, BDSM romance novel.
I liked that this book was a little more sadistic than most are used to, but was also very loving. This book had a main story and a small side story, which I am having a hard time trying to decide which one I like the best. Honestly the sadist in me likes April's side story a bit better, she was truly submissive and didn't fight her feelings.. but interestingly enough she was the strongest character in the whole book.
I love the cover art, it is so simple and elegant yet the flowers are artfully placed in a sensual embrace. The story is written in the third person POV, which caused a bit of a connection issue with the characters. I did like being able to see from Christian's POV.
Swoonworthy Points: 8
There were several erotic scenes, but my favourite scene was when Christian was sketching Rowan.. it was lovely and hot!! Plus there's a cast of Pure Alpha Male Doms that know how to take control of a room!
Memorable Quotes
...sometimes when we're finding ourselves, we find things we never expected, things we weren't necessarily looking for...
The point is, knowing who we are, accepting our own truth, is the most precious gift we can give ourselves, no matter what we have to overcome to do it.
Summary
Rowan a Domme meets Christian another Dom at a BDSM nightclub. One look in her eye and Christian knows that he wants to dominate Rowan. Christian makes Rowan an offer she's too stubborn to refuse, and with that she has to spend 30 under his whim. Meanwhile, a new sub to the club, April has attracted the attention of Decker, the most experienced Dom in the club.
The two couples have to learn to compromise, give and take, breakdown and then pick things back up.
I you are in need of a quick sexy read that will tempt a bit of your naughty side, then this is the book for you.
I was provide this ARC via Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group-Bantam in exchange for an honest review.
I liked that this book was a little more sadistic than most are used to, but was also very loving. This book had a main story and a small side story, which I am having a hard time trying to decide which one I like the best. Honestly the sadist in me likes April's side story a bit better, she was truly submissive and didn't fight her feelings.. but interestingly enough she was the strongest character in the whole book.
I love the cover art, it is so simple and elegant yet the flowers are artfully placed in a sensual embrace. The story is written in the third person POV, which caused a bit of a connection issue with the characters. I did like being able to see from Christian's POV.
Swoonworthy Points: 8
There were several erotic scenes, but my favourite scene was when Christian was sketching Rowan.. it was lovely and hot!! Plus there's a cast of Pure Alpha Male Doms that know how to take control of a room!
Memorable Quotes
...sometimes when we're finding ourselves, we find things we never expected, things we weren't necessarily looking for...
The point is, knowing who we are, accepting our own truth, is the most precious gift we can give ourselves, no matter what we have to overcome to do it.
Summary
Rowan a Domme meets Christian another Dom at a BDSM nightclub. One look in her eye and Christian knows that he wants to dominate Rowan. Christian makes Rowan an offer she's too stubborn to refuse, and with that she has to spend 30 under his whim. Meanwhile, a new sub to the club, April has attracted the attention of Decker, the most experienced Dom in the club.
The two couples have to learn to compromise, give and take, breakdown and then pick things back up.
I you are in need of a quick sexy read that will tempt a bit of your naughty side, then this is the book for you.
I was provide this ARC via Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group-Bantam in exchange for an honest review.
September 20, 2012
Saw this book at Target. It says right on the cover "If you loved Fifty Shades of Grey, then you'll love this." Instantly bought it.
Meet Rowan:
Mistress. Suppressing her past. Fighting eternal happiness. Pride the size of Mt. Rushmore.Secret author.
Meet Christian:
A Dom. Old member of Prive. Spent 5 years in Europe. Sculpts chicks out of marble. Fabio hair.
He seemed hot until they whip out the Fabio hair.
And we meet April and Decker :
That's when I fell in love with this book.
& then they go right back to Christian and Rowan...
& then after like two chapters it would go back to Decker and April and suddenly I felt a rush of excitement to actually continue reading this book!
After a short & beautiful scene between those two, it would go right back to Christian and Rowan...
and I literally would look ahead in the book to see how much I had to read before I would get to the next Decker and April scene...
Basically, if this book was completely about Decker and April, I'd put this baby on my favorites shelf and reread it at least 50 times before the year is over. I gave this book 3 stars because while the Christian and Rowan parts were decent, it was the Decker and April parts that kept me hanging on, craving more, and almost in tears.
Books like this always piss me off because I am forced to choose which couple I like best... & for some reason, I almost always end up in love with the couple you barely ever see. If this book was just about Rowan and Christian, alright, then maybe I'd be into them more, BUT because they threw in Decker and April, Rowan and Christian INSTANTLY lost my attention the second April and that sexy super Dom man Decker walked in.
Overall:
More Decker & April. Less Rowan & Christian. Better yet, split this story into two so they can each have a spot light and not have either couple steal their thunder.
Meet Rowan:
Mistress. Suppressing her past. Fighting eternal happiness. Pride the size of Mt. Rushmore.
Meet Christian:
A Dom. Old member of Prive. Spent 5 years in Europe. Sculpts chicks out of marble. Fabio hair.
He seemed hot until they whip out the Fabio hair.
And we meet April and Decker :
That's when I fell in love with this book.
& then they go right back to Christian and Rowan...
& then after like two chapters it would go back to Decker and April and suddenly I felt a rush of excitement to actually continue reading this book!
After a short & beautiful scene between those two, it would go right back to Christian and Rowan...
and I literally would look ahead in the book to see how much I had to read before I would get to the next Decker and April scene...
Basically, if this book was completely about Decker and April, I'd put this baby on my favorites shelf and reread it at least 50 times before the year is over. I gave this book 3 stars because while the Christian and Rowan parts were decent, it was the Decker and April parts that kept me hanging on, craving more, and almost in tears.
Books like this always piss me off because I am forced to choose which couple I like best... & for some reason, I almost always end up in love with the couple you barely ever see. If this book was just about Rowan and Christian, alright, then maybe I'd be into them more, BUT because they threw in Decker and April, Rowan and Christian INSTANTLY lost my attention the second April and that sexy super Dom man Decker walked in.
Overall:
More Decker & April. Less Rowan & Christian. Better yet, split this story into two so they can each have a spot light and not have either couple steal their thunder.
May 9, 2020
When I first got this book I thought it was a mystery thriller of sort reminding me of my very own mystery-thriller His White Rose! but this book was a Romance/Erotica, now I know what you are thinking and no this isn't another Fifty Shades of Grey book cause this was even better since every one of my ships sailed and got a happy ending in the end. Definitely a must and also a fantastic read.
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Here's a few parts of the book that I enjoyed;
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"Sterling, let me ask you something." "Anything, my boy. You know that." "What made you say that? That you believe I'm love sick?" He expected another laugh, but his friend's voice was somber. "I've never seen you look at a woman the way you did at Rowan here in the gallery. And you've never given a piece of your art to a woman, that I know of. Hell, you've only given me two pieces and I've known you your entire adult life, been deeply involved in your career. It's in everything; the way you speak to her, the way you touch her, as though she is something very precious to you." Pg. 218
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"Don't let her get away, Christian. I think you need her, whether you're ready to admit it or not." He was quiet for a moment. Sterling knew him like nobody else on earth. "Sterling." "Yes?" "I am in love with this woman. Whether she loves me back or not. And I don't know what the hell I'm going to do about it." Pg. 219
When the main male character starts to realize that he is most definitely falling for the most important and strongest woman he has ever laid eyes on. :))
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He blinked, looking confused for a moment. Then he turned his head away. "Not tonight."
Her heart sank. She'd heard that expression before, but this was the first time she could remember truly feeling that heavy sinking sensation, weighing on her chest.
He didn't want her.
Before she could do anything about it, she let out a small gasping sob.
"Damn it," he muttered before turning back to her,
making her jump, mortified at what she'd done. But he surprised her by sitting on the bed and pulling her into his lap, wrapping his arms around her and holding her tight. Tears welled in her eyes.
"Damn it, April," he said again, confusing her. "I didn't want to do this. I didn't plan on this."
What was he talking about? She was so confused, and hurt, and worried that he was angry with her. His hand was on her hair, stroking it, then he buried his fingers in it and pulled tight. He tugged her head back so that she was forced to look at him, into those dark eyes that were always so unreadable. But now she was shocked at the raw emotion she saw there. Her heart beat fast.
When my second couple start finding out that they are falling for each other as well. gosh, this was exciting to read. A five star and a very intense and awesomely read.
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Here's a few parts of the book that I enjoyed;
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.
.
.
"Sterling, let me ask you something." "Anything, my boy. You know that." "What made you say that? That you believe I'm love sick?" He expected another laugh, but his friend's voice was somber. "I've never seen you look at a woman the way you did at Rowan here in the gallery. And you've never given a piece of your art to a woman, that I know of. Hell, you've only given me two pieces and I've known you your entire adult life, been deeply involved in your career. It's in everything; the way you speak to her, the way you touch her, as though she is something very precious to you." Pg. 218
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.
.
.
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"Don't let her get away, Christian. I think you need her, whether you're ready to admit it or not." He was quiet for a moment. Sterling knew him like nobody else on earth. "Sterling." "Yes?" "I am in love with this woman. Whether she loves me back or not. And I don't know what the hell I'm going to do about it." Pg. 219
When the main male character starts to realize that he is most definitely falling for the most important and strongest woman he has ever laid eyes on. :))
.
.
.
.
.
.
He blinked, looking confused for a moment. Then he turned his head away. "Not tonight."
Her heart sank. She'd heard that expression before, but this was the first time she could remember truly feeling that heavy sinking sensation, weighing on her chest.
He didn't want her.
Before she could do anything about it, she let out a small gasping sob.
"Damn it," he muttered before turning back to her,
making her jump, mortified at what she'd done. But he surprised her by sitting on the bed and pulling her into his lap, wrapping his arms around her and holding her tight. Tears welled in her eyes.
"Damn it, April," he said again, confusing her. "I didn't want to do this. I didn't plan on this."
What was he talking about? She was so confused, and hurt, and worried that he was angry with her. His hand was on her hair, stroking it, then he buried his fingers in it and pulled tight. He tugged her head back so that she was forced to look at him, into those dark eyes that were always so unreadable. But now she was shocked at the raw emotion she saw there. Her heart beat fast.
When my second couple start finding out that they are falling for each other as well. gosh, this was exciting to read. A five star and a very intense and awesomely read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2015
4.5 Stars
This review was posted at Under the Covers
This is probably my favorite Eden Bradley book that I've read so far. Highly erotic and sensual but this book is about so much more than just than. It is truly a story about self discovery, about a woman who might be just a bit confused because that's how she's coped with life and who now finds herself with the opportunity to experience what she really wants.
Rowan Cassidy has been playing as a Domme for a long time. After a bad situation in her past she thought she wasn't wired to be a submissive and she has found pleasure in controlling men. Then Christian Thorne comes into town and offers her a deal. Be his submissive for a month, no sex. Just to prove that's who she really is and what she needs.
Rowan is a very complex character and she doesn't go through the change and realization easily. I liked that about the story. Ms. Bradley wasn't trying to wrap this up with a tidy bow and make things perfect. It obviously takes work and it's very emotional to overcome some of the issues Rowan had, and we got to see some of that in the book.
Then of course there's Christian. I think Rowan hit the Dom lottery with this one. He truly cares about her, to the point I could almost believe in love at first sight with their relationship. And being that their deal was no sex he really got to work with the emotional aspects of her being a submissive. He handled her perfectly. Pushing when needed and understanding other times. But always showing her that she was loved and cared for.
There's is also a secondary couple and although we don't see as much of them or the development of their relatioship, we do get to see them actually having sex when Rowan and Christian weren't. And boy oh boy RAWR they were hot too!
All in all I think this book was a great read, emotionally involved, excellent story and believable characters. None of them are perfect but they are trying to achieve their happy ever after, even though it scares them to death. Now I'm just intrigued to see if there are more books about Club Privé, sounds like a great place to hang out ;)
*Review copy provided by author
This review was posted at Under the Covers
This is probably my favorite Eden Bradley book that I've read so far. Highly erotic and sensual but this book is about so much more than just than. It is truly a story about self discovery, about a woman who might be just a bit confused because that's how she's coped with life and who now finds herself with the opportunity to experience what she really wants.
Rowan Cassidy has been playing as a Domme for a long time. After a bad situation in her past she thought she wasn't wired to be a submissive and she has found pleasure in controlling men. Then Christian Thorne comes into town and offers her a deal. Be his submissive for a month, no sex. Just to prove that's who she really is and what she needs.
Rowan is a very complex character and she doesn't go through the change and realization easily. I liked that about the story. Ms. Bradley wasn't trying to wrap this up with a tidy bow and make things perfect. It obviously takes work and it's very emotional to overcome some of the issues Rowan had, and we got to see some of that in the book.
Then of course there's Christian. I think Rowan hit the Dom lottery with this one. He truly cares about her, to the point I could almost believe in love at first sight with their relationship. And being that their deal was no sex he really got to work with the emotional aspects of her being a submissive. He handled her perfectly. Pushing when needed and understanding other times. But always showing her that she was loved and cared for.
There's is also a secondary couple and although we don't see as much of them or the development of their relatioship, we do get to see them actually having sex when Rowan and Christian weren't. And boy oh boy RAWR they were hot too!
All in all I think this book was a great read, emotionally involved, excellent story and believable characters. None of them are perfect but they are trying to achieve their happy ever after, even though it scares them to death. Now I'm just intrigued to see if there are more books about Club Privé, sounds like a great place to hang out ;)
*Review copy provided by author
September 19, 2013
It's a problem when you find yourself more interested in the secondary couple than the main couple. I thought Rowan and Christian have way too many baggage, it's almost exhausting. April and Decker, on the other hand, their chemistry is off the chart. The latter have their own issues, of course, but they don't make me feel like cracking my head open, trying to figure out what their problem was.
April 7, 2013
Mmmmm...pretty hot....pretty light on the BDSM, but there's enough to make it interesting. All in all, I approve!
Nipple count... 55... nice! Also orgasm = 17, cock = 51, and (I shit you not) sex (generally meaning girly parts) = 105! O.O
Nipple count... 55... nice! Also orgasm = 17, cock = 51, and (I shit you not) sex (generally meaning girly parts) = 105! O.O
September 11, 2016
I really liked this book, loved the duel stories going on and the author kept my attention throughout the entire book.
June 24, 2021
Giving this 2.5 stars. I bought this at a used bookstore so I felt it was time to read it after owning it for a year. I just feel this lacked character development. Even the parts that were deeper and should have been more emotional weren’t. This may be one of those books where plot isn’t the focus but the sexiness is haha. Still didn’t do much for me and towards the end I just wanted to get through it. But if you like some BDSM and sexiness this is for you. Fifty shades rip off kinda vibe.
July 26, 2024
Good read but not a patch on fifty shades. I loved the story and how it switched between the two couples and loved the happy ending.
September 12, 2019
I can't believe I'm saying this...but too much sex. And boring sex. And 2.5 weeks to fall madly in love and go from top to bottom. Ugh.
May 22, 2023
4/5 stars--This was something else! I thoroughly enjoyed this novel for what it was: a true erotic romance story. Were some of the romance scenes fantastical? Absolutely. But the bdsm was so well executed that I'll allow it. The dual storylines were easy to follow and there was PLENTY of smut scenes to live vicariously through😁 I'd recommend this one.
December 24, 2011
Ms. Bradley holds the hand of a vanilla into the world of BDSM. This book is not set on the dark side of BDSM... no, actually this was a very powerful book luring you in with one woman's pleasure, one woman's pain of finding out who she really is through her life of BDSM. You know the soul searching kinda find we know we must do in order to find out who we truly are.
This book takes a woman who is so sure she knows what she stands for... Knows her position in the world and in her life... a Top. She learned a long time ago to never give up her submission to anyone...
Rowan past taught her a lot. It taught her to not allow anyone to have control over here. Never to let anyone give you "pretty false" words to get what they want. Her game, her rules... take it or leave it. The past was something she was pretty sure she buried. Live, learn and move on.. However, the only thing she did not count on was meeting the one man who would openly offer her the world. Can a scared, broken, damaged heart and soul take someone who offers so much...
Christian is a man bent on fixing everyone's problems. He wants to take care of everyone. But he did not see that when he first laid eyes on Rowan... but what he did see rocked his world and made his blood boil. He wanted her... under him. One problem... she claimed to be a Top... but when he looked into her eyes... deep... He saw she was a Bottom... a very good Bottom... Only one way to find out... Make her an offer she could not back down from... Would thirty days be enough... Could his heart and soul survive the woman in front of him for thirty day?
This is a journey of two people who have a lot to learn about themselves as well as each other. In the learning process, hearts will get broken and healed, walls will go up and come crumbling down and desire will go wild and pleasure will... well.. I think you know! The side characters in the book ~ April and Decker ~ are just as explosives as the main characters. Their journey is sure to bring a few tears to your eyes... and make your heart ache for what they have... Well... for some of you that can admit BDSM is your lifestyle that is... For the rest... The love shared in this story will make you say... This is love... this is what it is about... open, raw, pure.... laying it all out on the table.. going for broke... Putting it all on the line... for that one chance to have what you deserve... Happiness... Love... The ONE...
This book takes a woman who is so sure she knows what she stands for... Knows her position in the world and in her life... a Top. She learned a long time ago to never give up her submission to anyone...
Rowan past taught her a lot. It taught her to not allow anyone to have control over here. Never to let anyone give you "pretty false" words to get what they want. Her game, her rules... take it or leave it. The past was something she was pretty sure she buried. Live, learn and move on.. However, the only thing she did not count on was meeting the one man who would openly offer her the world. Can a scared, broken, damaged heart and soul take someone who offers so much...
Christian is a man bent on fixing everyone's problems. He wants to take care of everyone. But he did not see that when he first laid eyes on Rowan... but what he did see rocked his world and made his blood boil. He wanted her... under him. One problem... she claimed to be a Top... but when he looked into her eyes... deep... He saw she was a Bottom... a very good Bottom... Only one way to find out... Make her an offer she could not back down from... Would thirty days be enough... Could his heart and soul survive the woman in front of him for thirty day?
This is a journey of two people who have a lot to learn about themselves as well as each other. In the learning process, hearts will get broken and healed, walls will go up and come crumbling down and desire will go wild and pleasure will... well.. I think you know! The side characters in the book ~ April and Decker ~ are just as explosives as the main characters. Their journey is sure to bring a few tears to your eyes... and make your heart ache for what they have... Well... for some of you that can admit BDSM is your lifestyle that is... For the rest... The love shared in this story will make you say... This is love... this is what it is about... open, raw, pure.... laying it all out on the table.. going for broke... Putting it all on the line... for that one chance to have what you deserve... Happiness... Love... The ONE...
January 1, 2013
I was given this in a challenge, but based on the blurb it's a book I might have picked out for myself anyway. It's a book that I liked to have read, but had issue getting through it.
I had one major issue with the book and it's with the decision that Rowan makes in the beginning of the book and that's mentioned in the blurb. Rowan is a woman with issues and her issues is with the loss of control. Yet she accepts a challenge where she will submit - in essence surrender control to Christian, not for the night, but for a month.
Her acceptance isn't in line with her character, which fights to stay in control and especially sexually. There is no real motivation behind her decision. The author asks the reader to take a literary leap of faith... and I found myself left behind and struggling to catch up to the story for most of the book after that, as this isn't the only time that the author makes the decisions for her.
If this is something that you don't mind or haven't encountered before you may very well learn to love this book as it's a good erotic romance story that is well shrouded in beautiful dress.
I can understand the Ashley character, but I'm not sure what April and Decker's story is doing in this book. The only reasons that come to mind are that the author either wanted to extend the story into a full novel from a novella or that she wanted to create a multi-level story where a similar message is retold in more than one way and in more than one way. If the latter is what she tried to do and something I myself have considered as a story weaver then she overextended her current capability and wasn't successful in making them work in symbiosis. Rather than strengthen the other stories they seem to be continuously slightly out of synch so that they grate against each other rather than build up a bigger sum.
For anyone with writing ambitions is was a very good book to read and is highly recommended, for what it could be and what it isn't.
I had one major issue with the book and it's with the decision that Rowan makes in the beginning of the book and that's mentioned in the blurb. Rowan is a woman with issues and her issues is with the loss of control. Yet she accepts a challenge where she will submit - in essence surrender control to Christian, not for the night, but for a month.
Her acceptance isn't in line with her character, which fights to stay in control and especially sexually. There is no real motivation behind her decision. The author asks the reader to take a literary leap of faith... and I found myself left behind and struggling to catch up to the story for most of the book after that, as this isn't the only time that the author makes the decisions for her.
If this is something that you don't mind or haven't encountered before you may very well learn to love this book as it's a good erotic romance story that is well shrouded in beautiful dress.
I can understand the Ashley character, but I'm not sure what April and Decker's story is doing in this book. The only reasons that come to mind are that the author either wanted to extend the story into a full novel from a novella or that she wanted to create a multi-level story where a similar message is retold in more than one way and in more than one way. If the latter is what she tried to do and something I myself have considered as a story weaver then she overextended her current capability and wasn't successful in making them work in symbiosis. Rather than strengthen the other stories they seem to be continuously slightly out of synch so that they grate against each other rather than build up a bigger sum.
For anyone with writing ambitions is was a very good book to read and is highly recommended, for what it could be and what it isn't.
March 31, 2013
"If you loved Fifty Shades of Grey, then you'll love this"... Eeehhh not really!!
I love dirty romance novels but I'm not into BDSM so I'm not sure what I expected. The ENTIRE book was nothing but sex and always the same way. Boring! At least twist things up a bit if that's all you got going. The author could have done a better job building up the characters. I never really connected with them so I couldn't have cared less about what happened in the end. Now this book is a good intro into BDSM if that's your thing. She explains how the relationships work and what's expected. Why people tend to enter that lifestyle.
This book follows two couples. Rowan & Christian and April & Decker
Rowan and Christian are both Dom's who are immediately attracted to each other and enter an agreement. Christian is trying to convince Rowan that she is more of a Sub and she gives him 30 days to try to prove otherwise. They both develop feelings for each other but constantly fight them, however they continue on with the agreement...
Decker is a Dom and April is a Sub. Decker has this all high and mighty reputation and never uses the same girl twice. He begins to fall for April and she knows her heart will be broken as she begins to fall in love with him.
Blah Blah Blah... All ends well and everyone is happy! No suspense, No romance, No mystery. Just boring sex!
I love dirty romance novels but I'm not into BDSM so I'm not sure what I expected. The ENTIRE book was nothing but sex and always the same way. Boring! At least twist things up a bit if that's all you got going. The author could have done a better job building up the characters. I never really connected with them so I couldn't have cared less about what happened in the end. Now this book is a good intro into BDSM if that's your thing. She explains how the relationships work and what's expected. Why people tend to enter that lifestyle.
This book follows two couples. Rowan & Christian and April & Decker
Rowan and Christian are both Dom's who are immediately attracted to each other and enter an agreement. Christian is trying to convince Rowan that she is more of a Sub and she gives him 30 days to try to prove otherwise. They both develop feelings for each other but constantly fight them, however they continue on with the agreement...
Decker is a Dom and April is a Sub. Decker has this all high and mighty reputation and never uses the same girl twice. He begins to fall for April and she knows her heart will be broken as she begins to fall in love with him.
Blah Blah Blah... All ends well and everyone is happy! No suspense, No romance, No mystery. Just boring sex!
December 21, 2012
I really loved the plot line and the synopses and was looking forward to the darker read. Rowan was a Domme who at one point had been submissive but suffered terrible abuse under her last boyfriend/Dom's hand. Thriving on the control she has over others, Rowan begins to feel restless. like she is missing something. Her body is craving the submissiveness that she won't allow it to have, Rowan has buried that part of her deep and refuses to take a backwards glance. That is until she meets Christian. A Dom at the club she belongs to as a Mistress. Christian see's her as more of a submissive than a Mistress and strikes up a deal to help her find this part of herself again.
I don't know if it is my taste are changing in what I find an interesting read lately or what because I usually love BDSM books, but for some reason this one didn't work really well for me. I found myself skimming pages, skipping the sex scenes and just hoping for the character's to gain some chemistry. I made it about half way through before I had to set the book aside.
I did enjoy April and Decker's attraction and side story but not enough to hold my attention to the the main characters.
I was provided with this book from the publisher for free via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review, thank you!
I don't know if it is my taste are changing in what I find an interesting read lately or what because I usually love BDSM books, but for some reason this one didn't work really well for me. I found myself skimming pages, skipping the sex scenes and just hoping for the character's to gain some chemistry. I made it about half way through before I had to set the book aside.
I did enjoy April and Decker's attraction and side story but not enough to hold my attention to the the main characters.
I was provided with this book from the publisher for free via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review, thank you!
November 7, 2012
The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because I wanted MORE... I wish the book was 400 pages longer, and that we got to know Rowan and Christian even better.
Absolutely amazing depth information into the BDSM world. The psychology, the training, the understanding.. the preparation for someone to be a sub (bottom)and "let go" and that it doesn't mean you're weak. The strength, control and responsibility of a Dom (top). The terminology's used, etc... I will tell you that subspace sounds like a glorious place to be, completely drug free!
I feel that the telling of this story was done MUCH better and less repetitive descriptiveness from the author and it really put 50 Shades of Grey (the series of books) to shame for me.. (almost like its now turned into the "Moron's Guide to BDSM: If you want to do it wrong!")
I would recommend reading this book first, to anyone who wants to know more about that lifestyle, what it could mean for partners or your relationship. How sensual and freeing, how bonding with the trust, etc. and how to not hurt yourself.
Absolutely amazing depth information into the BDSM world. The psychology, the training, the understanding.. the preparation for someone to be a sub (bottom)and "let go" and that it doesn't mean you're weak. The strength, control and responsibility of a Dom (top). The terminology's used, etc... I will tell you that subspace sounds like a glorious place to be, completely drug free!
I feel that the telling of this story was done MUCH better and less repetitive descriptiveness from the author and it really put 50 Shades of Grey (the series of books) to shame for me.. (almost like its now turned into the "Moron's Guide to BDSM: If you want to do it wrong!")
I would recommend reading this book first, to anyone who wants to know more about that lifestyle, what it could mean for partners or your relationship. How sensual and freeing, how bonding with the trust, etc. and how to not hurt yourself.
December 2, 2012
I loved this it was well written very intense and some very hot steamy sex was there too.
I loved both characters Rowan and April they came across as very strong in there own minds from the start but as the story unfolded with both of their doms Christian and Decker you see them falling intensely in love as they both got to find their inner selves through the d/s play and in the end discovered letting go came with learning to trust again and that love was nothing to be feared.
I liked how Rowan compared her fear as unlocking the gate to her dark secret garden.
I really did love this book..it had such a good story even amongst all the hot steamy sex..I cried,I screamed I got angry at times as it was a very intense read
I loved Christians quote to Rowan at the end of the book "I'm going to make love to you now " "and then ill make love to you again for the next eighty years "
Brilliant loved all of it a great read ;-)
I loved both characters Rowan and April they came across as very strong in there own minds from the start but as the story unfolded with both of their doms Christian and Decker you see them falling intensely in love as they both got to find their inner selves through the d/s play and in the end discovered letting go came with learning to trust again and that love was nothing to be feared.
I liked how Rowan compared her fear as unlocking the gate to her dark secret garden.
I really did love this book..it had such a good story even amongst all the hot steamy sex..I cried,I screamed I got angry at times as it was a very intense read
I loved Christians quote to Rowan at the end of the book "I'm going to make love to you now " "and then ill make love to you again for the next eighty years "
Brilliant loved all of it a great read ;-)
March 6, 2013
This writer has a nice writing style, but i just couldn't finish the book, stopped after reading 50%.
Here are my reasons:
1. This is not my 1st BDSM book, but it emphasizes the SM aspect, and I guess I'm more into the BD one.
2. The main and secondary characters were described superficially, just weren't interesting enough.
3. There wasn't sufficient build up of the relationships of the couples in this story. They all were instantly in love. After only 2 encounters with Rowan, Christian has been thinking about being in love with her.
4. The main issue in this book is Rowan going from being a top to being a bottom. I couldn't at all see Rowan as a Domme, the writer described it in a very shallow way. That's why for me, there was no real conflict with her crossing the lines into submission. Despite her bad past experience, she is a submissive in her essence.
Overall, although the story had certain appeal, for me this was an unsatisfying reading.
Here are my reasons:
1. This is not my 1st BDSM book, but it emphasizes the SM aspect, and I guess I'm more into the BD one.
2. The main and secondary characters were described superficially, just weren't interesting enough.
3. There wasn't sufficient build up of the relationships of the couples in this story. They all were instantly in love. After only 2 encounters with Rowan, Christian has been thinking about being in love with her.
4. The main issue in this book is Rowan going from being a top to being a bottom. I couldn't at all see Rowan as a Domme, the writer described it in a very shallow way. That's why for me, there was no real conflict with her crossing the lines into submission. Despite her bad past experience, she is a submissive in her essence.
Overall, although the story had certain appeal, for me this was an unsatisfying reading.
June 23, 2012
I think I would have liked this one better if I had liked Rowan more. Part of why I didn't like her was that she seemed to be lying to herself. She considered herself a Domme, even gave talks to those looking to get into the life, but she wasn't really embracing what the whole BDSM lifestyle was all about.
It was interesting seeing her and Christian, seeing him break her down little by little, often I was surprised by just what would cause Rowan to run, sometimes figuratively, sometimes literally.
I was actually found the secondary romance/storyline much more interesting. April was comfortable with her place in BDSM circles, knew what she was looking for. I loved how April went for Decker and wouldn't be turned away.
It was interesting seeing her and Christian, seeing him break her down little by little, often I was surprised by just what would cause Rowan to run, sometimes figuratively, sometimes literally.
I was actually found the secondary romance/storyline much more interesting. April was comfortable with her place in BDSM circles, knew what she was looking for. I loved how April went for Decker and wouldn't be turned away.
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