Soft Focus

by Reno MacLeod, Jaye Valentine

Ethan Bouwer has always been the adventurous sort. A freelance nature photographer, he travels the globe and writes erotica on the side whenever things become a bit slow. While searching for a topic for his next writing project, he stumbles upon a man named David Turner and the taboo world of BDSM. His curiosity piqued, Ethan discovers that David Turner and David’s beautiful partner Kiyoshi are coming to town for a fetish convention.

Ethan makes arrangements for them to meet, but little does he know he’s about to embark on a safari into a world more wild and untamed than anything he has ever encountered.

__________

Soft Focus is a 38,500-word erotic romance novella featuring a ménage a trois and light elements of BDSM.

Genres: BDSM, M M Romance, Menage, Contemporary, Erotica, M M M, Gay

160 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 26, 2009

About the author

Not For The Faint Of Heart---That sums up my work with Jaye Valentine. I've always spent a good deal of time with the darker side of my imagination. I was never afraid of the dark. In fact, some of my fondest memories are of Saturday afternoons with my dad watching Creature Double Feature with a big bowl of popcorn. Halloween has always been my favorite holiday. Werewolves, angels, demons and vampires were my childhood passions. I guess I never grew up.

I live in a little town famous for its historical ax-murderess, where the Ghost Hunters TAPS has a home office. Salem—famous for witches, Newport—famous for pirates, and Providence—famous for H.P.Lovecraft are all under an hour's drive. I guess I really didn't have a chance of not turning out the way I did."

Reno has also designed and created cover art for many of Reno and Jaye's books as well as the logo for StarCrossed and their website's banner art.

Reviews

[Cole Riann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Updated Review: *4.5 stars*


This book is about the journey of a man into BDSM with the right teachers. Ethan is an m/m erotica writer. He does everything he can to find a subject that totally enthralls him. Then, he digs deep into research and come out on the other side with a story, hopefully about real men in that situation. On the flight home from his day-job as a freelance photographer on a safari in Africa, Ethan sees a BDSM magazine in the hands of the passenger next ot him, and after striking a conversation with the man about the publication he is reading, Ethan decides that the BDSM community is going to be part of his next project. He records the name of the Dom in the magazine that has caught his eye, and after finding out that he and his sub will be attending a conference near him, he arranges to meet them both at the conference to start his research.

David and Kiyoshi are quite a famous couple in the BDSM circuit. David is a skilled Dom who teaches classes, theory and practical, at different conferences during the year. Kiyoshi, his sub, is also equally famous, both for being David’s long-time sub, and for his own grace, beauty, and submission. They love each other very much, but they have a somewhat tenuous connection. Ethan is completely taken by them, and within only a few hours, decides that if he really wants to learn from them, he will enter into the community for the weekend. He soon learns that almost all of his thoughts about BDSM are completely wrong, though there are many within the community as well who are unable to grasp the finer points. David does not rule with an iron fist, just as Kiyoshi does not relinquish power when he submits to David. The power dynamic is fluid and constantly changing, just as a relationship does. Soon, however, David starts to love the place he has come to settle within the couple’s dynamic. Will they feel the same? Or will they let him go at the end of the weekend as he originally wanted?

The beauty of this particular story is the lens through which the story is told. We are told the story from Ethan’s POV as he learns about the community himself. He is an objective audience to David and Kiyoshi’s relationship (though he soon becomes part of it). Yet, with the possibility of their weekend menage lasting no longer than the convention, Ethan is able to retain the mask of partiality. Therefore, while we are able to see the BDSM community from the inside out at the same time as Ethan is able to understand the true meaning of the community — of power, and the dynamics of giving and receiving it, in a fresh and new way. The dynamic between David and Kiyoshi, and later as Ethan seems to take pleasure in pushing the boundaries of their relationship, helped me to understand the benefits that David and Kiyoshi, and Ethan as well, receive from a relationship in the context of BDSM. Likewise, the way that they viewed the community helped. Though they may seem the perfect Dom and sub in public, it is only that — a display. In private, the one who ultimately holds the power is Kiyoshi. It was fascinating to watch Ethan learn this, and then see the community through their eyes.

For the full review, please visit Reviews by Jessewave.

Original Review: I loved this book so much. Even though I don't read very much BDSM, this is by far my favorite m/m BDSM book, not to mention my favorite so far of Jaye and Reno's books. I admit that there have been times where a book has helped me to understand the BDSM culture, which isn't something that I'm naturally drawn to, but I've always still remained confused. This book changed that for me, and helped me understand the love and trust that is implicit in a BDSM partnership. I appreciate that and value it as someone who doesn't really enjoy the shock and awe factor that many m/m BDSM books employ. A favorite for sure :)

[JenMcJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was not a long book but it crammed in a lot of emotion and passion centered squarely on a D/s 24/7 lifestyle versus the more common role playing/scene enacting stories usually encountered.

It seemed very knowledgeable and really did a great job of gathering the view points in a rational and yet, very human and emotional way. It was one of the most concisely written stores about a D/s relationship that I have read. It easily made it seem like something two people would enjoy consensually without any bullying or abuse.

David and Kiyoshi are an established pair that Ethan approaches as interview subjects. It does not take long for David to crave the emotional connection he witnesses between the two and for a friendship of sorts to develop between Ethan and Kiyoshi. Between Ethan experiencing his own newbie reactions and watching Kiyoshi and David interact and asking questions, a clear view of the relationship and where David might fit emerges.

I really, really enjoyed this book.

ETA: After thinking about this book for a few hours I have something to add: This book screams for a sequel. I would love to see how the three of them adjust to their new circumstance. David and Kiyoshi would not only need to rethink their routine to include a third, but Ethan still needs pretty extensive immersion into the 24/7 D/s lifestyle they live. Additionally, David would need to explore Ethan’s boundaries in a way he has not had to do in a long time. Ethan and Kiyoshi have to define their relationship as well. It could be fascinating if approached as well as this book.

[Macky · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5*'
Fabulous! I read this in one sitting last night and was really sorry when it finished. extremely hot, the sex is sizzling and the sexual tension between all three protags electric. Ethan's introduction into the BDSM lifestyle was really fascinating and from the moment he met David and Kiyoshi I was drawn to the three men like a moth to a flame....mind you I do love my Ménage's!

Like David and Ethan, I was totally enamoured with Kiyoshi the beautiful cross dressing sub and for me he was the star of the show. Sexy, sassy and sensual, he really suits the nickname of " Kitten " from David his " Sensai " and he purrs very nicely but he's also got claws which show subtly when Ethan first enters into his and David's established relationship and later when he confronts a nasty Dom which unfortunately leads to repercussions. Made me see that a sub doesn't have to be meek, subdued and unassertive in a D/s pairing to make it work.

I'm not au fait with enough BDSM and D/s books to say whether or not this is a true representation but it felt quite authentic and I definitely felt like I got more of an insight into the true dynamics of Domination and submission, which I would say the book focuses on more than the actual BDSM, but having said that there's still some VERY nice kinky moments that were more than satisfying.

There were times when I found some of the interplay between them a touch confusing but I suppose you have to take into consideration that the story only takes place over two days which also made it feel like the progression of events happened a little too fast but overall the pure enjoyment I felt eclipsed those odd little niggles and ultimately I ended up really loving it. Yet another I'll be reading again... Probably pretty soon!

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is so not what I expected. I expected another romantic slice of life, lovey dovey m/m romance. Instead, I received a great front row seat to some hot BDSM m/m action. Yowza. This was a very pleasant surprise. I liked how the authors brought out the pros and cons of the BDSM lifestyle. I liked it even more that they showed the bad side of it and how it can harm people yet that isn't the norm. I appreciated most that none of the three main characters, Ethan, Ki and David were psychologically unbalanced nutcases, using BDSM as some form of therapy.

This was a book I sat down in one sitting and ripped right through. It's a great fast read with hot scenes. There is also tenderness that I like. I also like this example of the 24/7 lifestyle. Very lovely. I definitely recommend this to my BDSM friends who want something romantic and hot.

[Emma Sea · Rating 2 out of 5]

So disappointed! From another review I was expecting hot BDSM m/m action but I found the book actually boring.

David and Kiyoshi's relationship is well-portrayed, however it's D/s, not BDSM. It is very affectionate and enjoyable D/s: it's the first time I could actually see a 24/7 relationship would work. Apart from this there wasn't really any BDSM play in the book. There is a caning, but the sub canes the Dom at a demonstration; it's not a scene, there is zero attention between Kiyoshi and David, because Kiyoshi is trying to make a point to someone else entirely. It's not in the spirit of the relationship. There was also a nasty sexual assault, which was not hot, but upsetting, as I was looking forward to consensual hurt.

I didn't really get why Ethan was so desireable: the other MCs had looked him up online and that was enough to ask him to join their long-standing pairing? I also didn't see why David was so desireable: Ethan just seems to get a Dommy chemical buzz from him, but from David's actions I do not understand why Ethan or Kiyoshi want to obey him. David seemed very emotionally distant to me.

There was a lot of sex, and it was hot sex, but I was expecting hot BDSM sex. I guess my expectations were too high to enjoy the story.

[Jo * Smut-Dickted * · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a somewhat shorter book (under 250 pages) it packed a wallop! I liked the tension - both sexual and physical that existed between the three. This was how I anticipate a threesome in BDSM would work. It relies on trust and communication - and no one is perfect.

[Kassa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Innocently unaware of how little he truly knows of BDSM, Ethan steps unprepared into a world where he is challenged to step out from behind his safety as an observer and enter the scary, uncertainty of participating. His next twenty-four hours are comprised of moments where his choices, however large or minor, alter his path, as well as David and Kiyoshi’s.

All three characters are fully developed and wonderfully drawn from the intense and loving relationship between Kiyoshi and David to Ethan’s wide-eyed eagerness and yearning for more. Kiyoshi is a charming, intelligent, spoiled brat. He is wonderfully written with a deft hand, clearly showing a man, no matter how beautiful he may be with his stilettos, make up and clothing. His devotion and service to David shows the true strength and elegance of a BDSM relationship, where the “ownership” is clearly on both sides.

David is much more of an enigma; for all that he is clearly an essential aspect of the threesome relationship. He is engaging and scene stealing, confident and charismatic with an obvious strength. His love and adoration for Kiyoshi is charming and their interaction is lovely to watch. The authors clearly have a true understanding of how a healthy, vital BDSM relationship works and creates a magnetic dynamic here between these men. Many of their interactions are subtle but show the strength, love, and purpose shared between David and Kiyoshi without the need for grand gestures.

There are a surprising number of elements woven into this fabulously engaging and riveting tale. Between the ménage relationship, BDSM elements, tension from outside forces, the mixture of personalities, needs, and wants; Soft Focus delivers a well-written, cohesive and beautiful story. Although this is a romance, the characters have an intensity and edge that never mistake this for an easy relationship.

Ethan and Kiyoshi relationship shows great depth and growing emotions while Ethan navigates his place as submissive to David. The complex interactions and intense relationships between the three men amidst the BDSM backdrop creates an engaging story filled with graphic sex and violence but fitting the characters and setting without turning the reader away. There is no question all three men desired each other with very steamy sex scenes, which thankfully weren’t just there for the sake of sex. The BDSM elements are clever and interesting, showing a great deal of knowledge while poking gentle fun at a great number of misconceptions. The knowledge of the authors or their research is clear and refreshing to have an honest and authentic perspective versus perpetuating ideas simply because some find them sexy.

The interesting and incredibly hot men drew me into the story very quickly, leaving me rapt at Ethan’s earnest missteps and honest emotions. I was kept guessing as to what would happen in each moment. As the path of your life can change in an instant, the fascinating turns that follow the lives of these three men will keep you glued to their story. This book is a steal at only $2.50 for 167 pages.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of the m/m/m genre and mixed up with a sugar coating of kink this story is exactly what I love.

The freelance nature photographer and novelist Ethan Bouwer is hunting a topic for his new writing project: The world of BDSM. He trips over the Dom David Turner and his beautiful partner and cross dressing sub Kiyoshi, who are quite a famous couple in the BDSM circuit.

Ethan is completely taken by them, and within a few hours he decides that he really wants to learn from them...

Soft Focus delivers a well-written and beautiful story. It's written with a great deal of sensitivity. It makes clear that BDSM is based on loving trust and honesty, and lack of respect and brutality have no place in this lifestyle.

Although this is a romance, the characters are intense. They are clearly defined and I could easily connect with each of them.

I liked how the authors bring out the pros and cons of the BDSM lifestyle and how idiots like the one in the story can give a whole community a bad name.

What I didn't like was the shortness of the story. There's definitely a lot more for Ethan to learn, and that could have been an interesting journey if there would be a sequel. It's too bad that the authors left us high and dry. :)

[Feliz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A totally different take a the BDSM theme, insightful and very respectful. Ethan is an erotic romance author seeking inspiration for a new book. He stumbles across David Clarke, a "lifestyler" and real-life Dom, and asks for an interview. But when he meets with David at a BDSM convention, David's sub Kiyoshi Sato takes over,and Ethan gets much more than he'd hoped for, and in an entirely different way.

I loved the dynamics between David, Kiyoshi and Ethan in either combination. All three were interesting characters; with Ethan the best - worked-out and David the most mysterious, as it fits their respective roles. Kiyoshi was a simply adorable combination of spoiled brat and lionhearted fighter. The story moved fast, with some surprising twists and turns. Although the three had been only together for a few days, I could relate to their quickly developing relationship. The story is about building and earning trust. I, alongside with Ethan, learned a lot about BDSM - after readind this, I can even imagina a relationship like David's and Kiyoshi's workin in real life. In addidtion to this, I felt delightfully entertained. So, nothing missing from this book.

[Kathleen · Rating 2 out of 5]

First, let me say that I have read and liked these authors before but for some reason this book did not do it for me. It felt like a PSA for novice practitioners about safe bdsm practices with a few sex scenes thrown in there. I didn't feel any character development or relationship building and it seems a bit unlikely that, in the course of one weekend, someone who has never been in the lifestyle before would choose to be in a 24/7 submissive relationship. I give this book 1.5 stars. For a much better bdsm story by these authors (at least in my opinion) check out A Perfect Game.

[Josephine Myles]

I loved this story - it manages to be a hilarious romp through a BDSM convention, as well as a thoughtful menage romance with much to say about the power dynamics inherent in a D/s relationship, and the sex is scorching! Also, I think I've fallen in love with Kiyoshi - the cross-dressing sub with attitude. Highly recommended.

[Lady*M · Rating 3 out of 5]

The average rating I give the books is fairly high compared to some people's, mainly due to the fact that I very carefully choose what I read. So, the three-star rating for Soft Focus could possibly make people who are following my reviews think that I found the book lacking. That wasn't really the case. What happened here was a disconnect between me and book's protagonists, which diminished my enjoyment in the book. That's something you can put down to the personal taste and experiences, rather than the lack of skill on authors' part.

In fact, I've rarely read about a healthy, full-time BDSM relationship that worked for me so well. There is a huge difference between understanding something with your rational mind and understanding it with your heart and emotions. I think the authors gave me a brief insight in how it works from within, which is a rare opportunity considering that I've never been in the lifestyle and I'll never be. Take this excerpt, for example:

"The myth of the so-called natural submissive is just that: a myth. It's not in any normal man's nature to give up his will to another without a fight. Submission is a gift that has to be freely given. It requires great inner strength, determination, and a very secure knowledge of oneself. It also requires an extreme degree of self-discipline. There's nothing natural about it, but when it works between two people—one who needs to give it up and one who needs to receive it—it's the most glorious, the most joyous and comforting feeling in the world."

When I've read this, I though of all those stories which I've read in the past and which begin with a man who walks in a bar/club/bookstore/whatever and the big, bad Dom takes one look at him and just knows that the man is a natural submissive and, of course, just perfect for him. Even when I actually liked the books, this always made me squirm and gentlemen who wrote this book made me understand why. For me, as a reader, this was very satisfying.

This quote could also somewhat explain why I couldn't connect to the protagonists. Kiyoshi is a lovely, scene-stealing character, but what was appealing in his character was also what alienated him from me. He is so balanced, so secured in his desires, so healthy that he was unreal. This is, of course, why I couldn't completely understand Ethan's infatuation. David was also a mystery to me. When Ethan asked Kiyoshi if David allowed him into their relationship because he wanted to humor Kiyoshi or because he actually liked Ethan, even Kiyoshi didn't have a satisfying answer to this. This bothered me because David and Kiyoshi seemed perfectly happy together until Ethan appeared in their lives and then, suddenly, I had a feeling that it was David that became an outsider. Even during the last sex scene that should have, sort of, seal the deal between the three men, I didn't have the feeling that David was part of it, that he directed it as Ethan implied, but that he was an observer, a participant on the outskirts of what was happening between Kiyoshi and Ethan. For all these reasons, I couldn't see how their relationship would work in the future. That said, I was very happy to learn that Soft Focus will get the sequel in the future. I will definitely read it, because, in spite of my complaints, the authors did make me care about Ethan, Kiyoshi and David.

I should also like to thank them for revealing which image inspired this story. As a longtime fan of both Buck-Tick and X Japan and their sexy frontmen, I had a very nice visual aid in imagining David and Kiyoshi. Their heritage is something I would like to see explored in the sequel.

[Wendy❤Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book overall in the aspect of its D/s storyline! There were some very unique control elements and commands included here that I’ve not run across before, but yum:) I also really liked the unique use of nicknames to denote Master and slave – in this case, Sensei and Kitten. There was something really sensual about their usage that came across in the vibe of the book.

I love m/m/m ménage stories, but found I did have a few questions and concerns with this particular match up – namely some actions that really felt like cheating and almost competition among the men. I think they ultimately came to an understanding and worked through their issues, but once that happened, the ending came too quickly. I’d love to read more about these three and see how their whole dynamic progresses further. They definitely have the makings for something very hot!

[carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slightly speedy introduction to BDSM for Ethan as well as incorporation into a hot BDSM relationship with Kiyoshi and Sensei David. Everything fell so smoothly into place, from picture on a plane to agreed meeting and straight into relationship...but made for fun read.

This turned out to be an erotic read, loved the characters and wanted to know more about them.

Mind you Ethan needed his butt kicking for his stupidity and easily diverted dare I say concentration span. Seems a man's dick being sucked by a total stranger is okay and totally overrules all prior intentions let alone his lack of concentration on Ki. I found this a bit of a let down.
I was totally fascinated with the character Kiyoshi. Would love to have a story about him.
I also loved how the use of Master used the martial arts for teacher in Sensei. Seemed appropriate.

Four stars.

[Dee Wy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What's better than a m/m story with a BDSM theme? A m/m/m menage with BDSM of course. This story was written with a great deal of sensitivity and very erotic love scenes. It makes clear what BDSM is (loving trust and honesty) and what it isn't (lack of respect and brutality). The characters were clearly defined and I empathized and connected with each of them. There are a number of missteps along the way, but in the end they find a way to be together. Loved it!

[Valentina Heart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh i really liked this one! It gripped me from the beginning to the end. Loved all the characters and i really really want more;)
I can't compare it with any similar books because I saw it differently than other bdsm books. But it had all the elements that I love and honestly I'm missing like 200-300 more pages;)

[⚣Michaelle⚣ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.7 Stars

I always like it when books break out of the "typical" BDSM role/rules structure but this one seemed a little bit...well, all over the place. I'm still not sure what the purpose was for Ki to cane David (his Sensei/Master) and I think the story could have benefited by explaining Ki's desire for punishment - and thus his misbehavior - just a little bit better. I still get the feeling that Ethan didn't understand and his fear/confusion rubbed off on me as the reader.

Could have done without the sexual assaults, too...but I get the authors' message: famous and notorious BDSM participants (or stupid, harmful, shitty books ) aren't actually indicative of the BDSM reality. Unfortunately that's the face often presented to the public via the media, entertainment industry and stupid, harmful, shitty books ...so of course the average Jo then forms erroneous opinions on the lifestyle.

Come to think of it, that's actually the message I got from the whole book. *sigh* I just wish it had been a little tighter.

(*snerk* That's what he said.)

[Brenda Maldonado · Rating 5 out of 5]

Despite the glamorous sounding jobs of nature photographer and erotic romance writer, Ethan is a loner who spends most of his time watching things happen or writing about them rather than experiencing life. Out of ideas for his next erotic book, Ethan is suddenly inspired by a pictorial featuring David Turner, a Dom and well known persona in the BDSM community. Upon finding out that David will be attending a BDSM conference nearby, Ethan contacts David and arranges to meet him in the hotel bar the first evening of the conference. What was meant to be a private interview to feed Ethan’s muse, quickly becomes an intense and unexpected journey for Ethan, David and David’s partner, Kiyoshi.

While this story develops in the context of the BDSM conference and David and Kiyoshi’s D/s lifestyle, the main focus is not on BDSM for its own sake. Instead, the reader observes the beauty and balance of David and Kiyoshi’s relationship, and the changing dynamic brought about by Ethan’s arrival and David and Kiyoshi's attraction to Ethan. Very quickly, the characters take over and pop off the page. Everything else blends into the background. The chemistry between Kiyoshi and Ethan is almost instantaneous and hot beyond description. The dynamic between David and Ethan is not so clear. While there is obvious attraction, there is also jealousy over Kiyoshi and subtle alpha posturing. Though Ethan submits to David, Ethan is not comfortable in a full time submissive role. Yet he is willing to give David due respect and wishes to earn his approval. David keeps his feelings to himself, expressing much more through actions than through words. He is more apt to walk away than to discuss his feelings, making his character hard to understand, but oh-so-appealing in that powerful, enigmatic man king of way. Just when you think you have him figured out, he turns everything upside down.

Though all three main characters are very well written, it is Kiyoshi that steals the show. A beautiful cross-dressing bishie with long blond locks and impeccable makeup, Kiyoshi may, at first glance, appear feminine and weak. Yet through the right interactions and plot developments, Reno and Jaye reveal and cement Kiyoshi as a man, a strong, smart, honest man in love. Cross-dressing characters are not as common as I would like in m/m stories, and more often than not, the cross-dressing is what defines them as a character. Kiyoshi is a fully developed, gorgeous character that just happens to be a cross-dresser. Well done!

This story has several yaoi like elements. The breathtakingly beautiful, long haired bishies (yes, all three!), the D/s dynamic between Kiyoshi and David (very much a seme/uke dynamic) and the dramatic episode with the “evil villain” all have that yaoi vibe. I don’t have to tell you how much I like that stuff! Add to that the great character development and well written interactions, and… well… you could say this one was written for me. LOVE IT!

It is not a big spoiler to say that David and Kiyoshi invite Ethan to move in with them and become a permanent part of their life. Ethan and Kiyoshi’s relationship reaches a new level. As a reader, I am convinced that they belong together, just as much as Kiyoshi and David belong together. Ethan and David seem to share a strong attraction and deep respect. Is that enough? I don’t know. I hope Reno and Jaye start working on the sequel soon, because I can’t wait to find out!

[Charly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Covers an unusual aspect of the BDSM lifestyle

Warning: This review might contain what some people consider SPOILERS.

Rating: 9/10

PROS:
- The character of Kiyoshi is lovely and refreshingly unusual in a genre that often seems to portray the same 20 characters over and over again. In fact, the authors do an excellent job of making all three characters alluring in different ways. I was totally interested in the existing relationship between David and Kiyoshi in addition to the budding relationships between each of them and Ethan.
- It’s clear that the BDSM elements in this story are based on real life experience or in-depth research rather than mere fantasy. The actions and attitudes of most of the characters struck me as realistic. Even for people who read a lot of BDSM stories, this one is likely to appeal…not just because of the fun bedroom scenes and the well-established power exchange dynamic in the relationship, but because the backdrop of the story--a BDSM/fetish convention--is something not often written about.
- The characters are serious about their lifestyle choice, but not so serious that they don’t have a sense of humor about it. My favorite quote in the book occurs when David is telling Ethan how to find a BDSM club in the phone book: “Look under ‘Social Clubs’ for any organization with a mysterious, darkity-dark name.”
- The story covers a facet of BDSM that is often ignored in m/m novels, which is that many people involved in the lifestyle are unapologetically open in their relationships rather than monogamous. This story does a good job of showing that such relationships are often just as strong and loving as their monogamous equivalents.

CONS:
- Ethan’s entire identity at the beginning of the story is wrapped up in his being a photojournalist, and he essentially loses that identity once the story gets going. What I mean is this: he makes very few observations about photo ops or potential story ideas after getting involved with David and Kiyoshi. I understand that new relationships are sometimes all-consuming, and even more so if there’s some element of D/s to them, but I’m not sure I believed in Ethan’s ability to let go of the familiar facets of his life so completely in the face of something so new to him.
- Intellectually, I’m not sure I bought into the Happily Ever After simply because the men have known each other for such a short time (about 2 days). But my emotions said “to heck with it” and want this title to be on my re-read list.

Overall comments: I think this is a great BDSM story and a great threesome. The authors don’t shy away from discussing the difficulties of a threeway relationship: they explore loneliness, jealousy, confusion, and passion--as well as how all of those emotions relate to each other. It’s got a bit of angst, but not so much that it managed to depress me, and there are several very hot sex scenes.

[Adara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting story. I was a bit amused that the MC who is a writer wants to write a BDSM story that feels more 'real' than some of the fluffy romances set around BDSM, but the situation he finds himself in - the possibility of becoming permanent third in a 24/7 Dom/sub relationship - is (I suspect but can't say for certain) an anomaly to say the least. But I'm not intimately knowledgeable on the culture, so I'll go with it.

I don't quite understand how the title relates to the story. I understand that it's a photography term, but the only mention of photography in the whole story is at the beginning, as a second job for the MC to have when he's not writing. Otherwise photography has nothing to do with the story. Maybe just hard-up for a title? It's also a shame that the cover art doesn't make use of the soft focus effect, but I suspect most people won't have noticed that anyway. I could make something up that might or might not be relevant to its use, but titles are usually a bit more apparent in their relation than this one was.

I liked Kiyoshi's character the most. I think he acted as a much better newbie guide through what it means to be a sub in a relationship than David did in providing understanding of what it means to be a Dom. I'm not sure I felt that it truly comes across to Ethan, which is why it's no surprise that he's still confused on mindsets and "why they are the way they are". There's definitely a LOT more for Ethan to learn, and that could be an interesting journey if there's a sequel. This is HFN. 3.5 stars, rounded down.

[Lexi Ander · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ethan is a professional photographer who occasionally writes erotica about little known areas of society. He was looking for a new subject when he cam across a BDSM article about David and seeks an interview with him. Ethan meets David and his partner, Kiyoshi, at a weekend event and spends the weekend following David and Kiyoshi around, slowly being pulled into their life and learning what their life is truly like. Is what Ethan is learning going to change his life? Will he be going home to a cold lonely existence? Or will he find the family he needs?

I loved this story! I was stomping my feet when I HAD to go to bed in the middle and then dreamed about what would happen next all night. Nothing my mind could make up in REM compared to what did happen. My heart broke and I cried for Kiyoshi (who turned out to be my favorite character). I kept mentally cringing at Ethan, just waiting for him to do something to mess up David's and Kiyoshi's relationship. I LOVED the convention demonstration where Kiyoshi took charge!

Note for the readers: This is does have a BDSM theme to it but it is the D/s that predominately holds the stage. There are no scenes, just the one teaching demonstration at the convention.

[Aerin · Rating 2 out of 5]

To be honest I don't even know how to rate this book so far. I can't even make myself continue reading it. This has to be the worst BDSM book I've ever read and the most inaccurate as well. I don't see how any self-respectable Dom would drop his pants and let his slave cane him in front of an audience. It was one of those WTF moments where I counldn't understand why that had to happen. And besides that I don't see how a slave that loves his Master or Dom or whatever and is in a long-term relationship with him can so easily let a stranger fuck him in a bathroom stall. This book had way to many fuck-ups in the first half so I felt like I'm wasting my time by continuing to read it. Some research within the lifestyle before writing a book is encouraged...

[Sucajo · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was different to other BDSM romances I have read in the past. The whole of the story takes place over a weekend and was just a little quick for my liking. I found the characters really interesting and likeable but would have liked to see a little more development in the relationship between Ethan and David. At times, I was also a little puzzled by David's reaction to things that were said and done. That said, I would love to know what happens next.

[Cainael - Queen of DNF · Rating 4 out of 5]

Woah,
It’s been a while since the DNF queen actually finished a read!

Review to come, it was a great story!

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3.5 stars.

[S.B. (Beauty in Ruins) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was just a lovely story, as thoroughly enjoyable as it was completely satisfying. On the surface, Soft Focus is a BDSM fantasy, one that's played out over a Halloween weekend in an exclusive hotel. It has all the trappings you would expect, include a lifestyle couple, an exhibition of pain and punishment, and some elaborate costumes. All the characters are there for an exciting exploration of the BDSM scene . . . but not quite in the way you would expect.

Let's start with Ethan Bouwer, author and photographer, and the reader's perspective into the story. Ethan is an innocent soul, almost wholly ignorant of the BDSM scene. He is only exposed to it by accident, through a magazine shared on an intercontinental flight, and his decision to investigate the scene for a new book is simply a whim. Through him we get to experience the scene as an outsider, to dabble a bit, and to test our limits. His assumptions are likely similar to those of most novices or outsiders, and his physical progression through the story parallels that of the reader's ideas.

David Turner is the man who brings us into this world, having agreed to an interview to help provide some background for Ethan's book. In many respects he is the Dominant we would expect - supremely confident, decisive, prone to black leather, and entirely possessive of his 'family.' He is far more than just a stereotype, however, with surprising (and delightful depths to his character). Playful, aloof, and comfortable engaging in an almost self-depreciating banter with his submissive, he's as much a romantic hero as a dominant one. David is arousing, both intellectually and amorously, and the force of his personality projects beyond the page, drawing us willingly into the scene.

A story centered on Ethan and David would have been quite satisfactory, but it's the presence of Kiyoshi that escalates this to stellar. Kiyoshi is David's lifestyle submissive, a playful, obedient, loyal, sweet, cheeky, gender-bending boy. Far more than a transvestite or crossdresser, Kiyoshi is the epitome of genderqueer - both masculine and feminine at the same time, encapsulating the best qualities of each. He dresses to impress, to best display that which belongs to David, but makes no attempt to disguise his voice or his manner of speaking. He is very proper and careful, seductively choreographed in his every move, but his femininity is just as much an act as his innocence. I know I'm not doing him justice - he really does need to be experienced - but Kiyoshi is a character with whom I can quite happily identify.

Initially, it's Kiyoshi to whom Ethan is first attracted, and their growing relationship carries much of the story. In many ways it's a romantic tale of unexpected, almost adolescent love, with the two of them carrying on and pushing David's boundaries (and patience) until you just want to spank them both. Of course, that's precisely what Kiyoshi craves, so the decision to chastise isn't quite so easy.

The three-way love story, set within the BDSM scene, is wonderful to behold. It casts an entirely new light on something most people dismiss as an occasional bit of role-playing, and does a great deal to distance itself from the stereotypes of cruel, capricious Masters, and snivelling, docile submissives. In fact, a very stereotypical Master is introduced into the story to illustrate the contrast, and he ends up becoming a key player in the development of Ethan, David, and Kiyoshi's relationship.

All in all, this was a breathtakingly sexy read, and one that had me grinning from ear-to-ear with delight. There are some necessarily tense moments, and enough suspense to tease us with a little doubt, but I can't remember the last time a book made me feel so good.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this story!

We start off with Ethan taking photo's in Africa - he is a writer of Erotica Novels, but in between books - he's supposed to be working on a new book - his publisher wants ideas 2 weeks ago, but he's struggling to come up with something new and exciting.

On his trip home from Africa, he sits next to a man. When he wakes up from his nap, he notices the magazine the man is looking through. When he asks to see it, his focus finds the picture of none other than David Turner. The man explains that David Turner is one of the best in the BDSM culture. He gives seminars and demonstrations and lives his life as a dominant.

The then wheels start to turn and Ethan is hooked. Gearing up to run home and email David Turner for an interview. As luck would have it, he was coming to Road Island in just a couple of weeks.

He sets up the interview and starts his research on the BDSM culture. Shocked but curious.

When he checks himself into the hotel the seminar is going to be in he was shocked to see people walking around in tight leather, shirtless, bondage type clothing. Then he found out that the hotel actually closes off reservations and only allows those who are attending the BDSM Seminar to stay at the hotel for the weekend. They are booked up every year.
Again Ethan is surprised this whole world is out there he never knew about.

David and his pet Kiyoshi were getting ready to meet with Ethan. They had done their research and knew who he was. Kiyoshi was nervous, but as they set out to the hotel bar, David set him at ease.

When Kiyoshi spotted Ethan across the room, he leaned over to David and said "He's cute. Can we keep him?"

When Ethan approached them shaking hands, his first mistake to address Kiyoshi as the lovely lady next to David. Not understanding his Fax Pas until he realized it was David's Sub dressed in Drag - but he was beautiful.

They went up to David's room and began the interview. David told Kiyoshi to get comfortable, so after he came back from the bathroom naked and kneeled at David's feet, Ethan was trying hard not to be aroused. He knew that Kiyoshi was the Sub, but didn't understand that David and Kiyoshi lived this way as a lifestyle, not role playing or for a sake of the audience they were with, it was how they lived, and being together for 6 years, it worked really well for them.

Ethan could see the love and cherish in Kiyoshi's eyes whenever David stroked his long blonde hair - he was beautiful in both male and female roles.

When David told Kiyoshi to answer a few of Ethan's questions, Ethan became very aware of Kiyoshi's hands stroking his inner thigh. But trying not to show his interest, he kept the interview going.

When David called Kiyoshi back to his feet, he saw the desire in Ethan's eyes. that's when they decided to take the interview into a more "hands on research"

*groan* This was a HOT story! Loved every second of it! As David tried to focus on Kiyoshi's desires to "keep" Ethan, they decided to let Ethan stay with them for the weekend, to see how he "fits in" with their family.

Ethan learns more about the BDSM culture. He learns that it's more than the sex and violence - it's about Truth and Trust - when things get a little crazy at the seminar, Kiyoshi gets his turn to switch roles

Like I said this was awesome, hot and educational at the same time.

Really enjoyed reading this one :)

[Tam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ethan is a wildlife photographer who also writes gay erotic romance. After a run-in on a plane with a guy with a BDSM magazine, he decides to contact the Dom in the magazine and ask if he can interview him before writing his next book. By chance David is going to be a fetish show near Ethan so they agree to meet. David arrives with his cross-dressing partner of 5 years Kiyoshi. Before long Ethan is back in their room and naked getting a first hand look at BDSM. He's a bit confused, he's attracted to both, but Kiyoshi seems a bit snarky, however the next day they talk it out and it seems Kiyoshi is afraid that David will choose Ethan, but Ethan confesses he likes them both soothing Kiyoshi's fears. There is a run-in with a total jerk who pushes Kiyoshi until he issues a challenge which nearly gets him beaten and raped later until Ethan saves him. My only frustration was Ethan. He's supposedly just picked himself up two new lovers, for the weekend at least and some guy grabs his zipper in the bathroom and he just stands there and gets a blow job from a stranger while Kiyoshi is being abducted. WTF? Are men REALLY so ruled by their dicks? He didn't even TRY to push the guy off. Okay, they needed the plot point but I would have been a billion times more pissed off than David was since Ethan was supposed to be looking out for Kiyoshi. Anyway, it's an interesting look at BDSM and the stigma attached to being involved and how idiots like the one in the story can give a whole community a bad name. Kiyoshi was cute and impertinent.

[Don · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is one strange read. Ethan, a well traveled photographer, insinuates himself into a relationship between a well known Dom and his cross dressing sub in order to ‘learn the lifestyle’ for a book he wants to write. Poor guy could only be confused learning from this couple. I went into WTF? mode when the Dom, certainly one of the most ambiguous Tops I've encountered, does a 180 at about the halfway point and gets caned by his sub in a demonstration at a S/m convention. (There is no rhyme, reason or explanation for this happening other than a poor attempt to shock.) He isn’t the only badly drawn character, however. The villain is so dastardly you can almost see him twirling his mustache. Nevertheless, there is a good amount of eroticism here, largely derived from humiliation, which I happen to be a fan of. Thus 3.5 stars. The BDSM is minimal so if it’s the hung-by-his-thumbs kind of thing you’re looking for, this ain’t it.,

[M'rella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked the book, despite things happening too fast between the three characters, literally in a span of a couple of days. Usually it turns me off. But even though my mind screams "too fast, can't be real!", my heart goes with "but they went through so much!"
There is not much BDSM in this book, but it doesn't have to be. We only get a short glimpse into the life of Ki and David, as many of us have already noticed (and taken the stars off for that, too). There are only hints at more intence scenes between the two throughout the book and it's fine with me personally. I don't expect whippings and extreme bondage in every book tagged "bdsm".
I would really love to know more about Kiyoshi's past or even present, besides the fact that he's David's partner. He is a very fascinating character.
5 stars.