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Gathering Storm
Vinnie Bernardi wants to leave his past as a repressed rich boy behind and find himself as a proud, gay submissive. Unfortunately, there's only one man who has ever successfully dominated him, and that man is unattainable. But Vinnie is slowly falling apart and needs a top to help him hold it together, so he decides to go ahead and make his move on Charleston, the military academy instructor at the center of his very favorite fantasies. Instead of finding his dream come true, Vinnie discovers the reality of Charleston's world is darker, more brutal, and more dangerous than he ever suspected. When Vinnie bumbles his way into Charleston's attentions, he stirs up ghosts from the other man’s mysterious past―phantoms deadly enough that Vinnie begins to fear he might not survive long enough to get what he truly love and a firm hand to shelter it.
262 pages, Paperback
First published August 19, 2010
15 people are currently reading
771 people want to read
About the author
Lyn Gala
47 books1,166 followersLynsey "Lyn" Gala started writing in the back of her science notebook in third grade and hasn’t stopped since. Westerns starring men with shady pasts gave way to science fiction with questionable protagonists which eventually gave in to any story with a morally ambiguous character. Even the purest heroes have pain and loss and darkness in their hearts, and that’s where she likes to find her stories. Her characters seek to better themselves and find the happy ending (or happier anyway), but it’s writing the struggle that inspires her muse. When she isn’t writing, Lyn Gala teaches in New Mexico.
She first cut her teeth on fanfic: gen, slash, het, and femslash. She prefers to focus on plot: mysteries and monsters and disasters, oh my, but sex can and does happen. Some of her stories focus on power exchange, bondage or bdsm. In her worlds, tops and bottoms are all mature, consenting adults. In fact, stories where they aren't squick her badly, so don't expect to find abuse stories in her journal.
She first cut her teeth on fanfic: gen, slash, het, and femslash. She prefers to focus on plot: mysteries and monsters and disasters, oh my, but sex can and does happen. Some of her stories focus on power exchange, bondage or bdsm. In her worlds, tops and bottoms are all mature, consenting adults. In fact, stories where they aren't squick her badly, so don't expect to find abuse stories in her journal.
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February 18, 2011
Just finished GATHERING STORM by Lyn Gala....
I enjoyed this book a lot. It really walks the edge of being an action thriller with a romantic subplot rather than straight MM (not knocking, just saying). Fiercely and joyously lurid: strippers, paranoia, abductions, mercenaries, and government conspiracy. I totally enjoyed it, read it at a breakneck pace, and found it completely satisfying, but I think it'll shock some people who are expecting something mushier or more literal.
A couple thoughts:
Lyn Gala can write. Really write. Pacing, detail, solid-ass research of her topics... Interesting, flawed characters who make real choices... Plot and character working in tandem. She has skills and talent and a real voice.
The violence and pacing and breakneck action are extremely well-handled. This doesn't feel like horseshit, "keep them apart until they can bone," obstacle-mongering. But it also veers into seriously grim, nasty, dark brutality. Seriously. Again, an odd choice for the genre, but one I enjoyed categorically. Absolutely more thriller than romance. Fascinating minor characters who all add visibly to the rush and flow of the story, internal and external. And a few of those all-too-rare creatures in MM: women who act like living, breathing humans.
The central relationship is fascinating, and the two main lovers are both perfect for each other and deeply scarred people. Interesting and sexy. Loads of tiny memorable moments and details that accrete to form these two men believably. I'd know them if I saw them on the street, and not cause they're naturalistic or homogenous. They're so stylized, but still humanized. Tricky thing to pull off, that. On the other hand, the entire book delays their actual "relationship" until literally the last 30ish pages. On the other-other hand the relationship (and intimacy) feels so earned that it works. Though deeply romantic, it doesn't feel like a romance. Interesting.
The BDSM is extremely well-handled and specified and complex. This doesn't feel like someone who's hit Wikipedia and the Mr. S catalog to assemble some quick-fix spanky naughtiness. Not only is BDSM here literally character-development in every case, but it evolves and refracts their internal landscapes as they converge. Imagine! Sex that means something! Rough sex that isn't a cartoon! Lyn Gala has thought not only about the "Tab-A, Slot B" mechanics of sex, but the way that very formalized sexual interaction reflects and affects the people involved. That last bondage/whipping scene is pretty fucking perfect, both as porn and as character-driven prose.
Oh yeah... and best cover of the damn year, hands down, goes to Dreamspinner Press for this one. Mesmerizing, spot-on without being even slightly literal.
Will I reread GATHERING STORM? Not sure yet, it's harrowing... but I definitely enjoyed reading it. And I'll be reading everything else she's written or will be writing. Newly minted fan here.
I enjoyed this book a lot. It really walks the edge of being an action thriller with a romantic subplot rather than straight MM (not knocking, just saying). Fiercely and joyously lurid: strippers, paranoia, abductions, mercenaries, and government conspiracy. I totally enjoyed it, read it at a breakneck pace, and found it completely satisfying, but I think it'll shock some people who are expecting something mushier or more literal.
A couple thoughts:
Lyn Gala can write. Really write. Pacing, detail, solid-ass research of her topics... Interesting, flawed characters who make real choices... Plot and character working in tandem. She has skills and talent and a real voice.
The violence and pacing and breakneck action are extremely well-handled. This doesn't feel like horseshit, "keep them apart until they can bone," obstacle-mongering. But it also veers into seriously grim, nasty, dark brutality. Seriously. Again, an odd choice for the genre, but one I enjoyed categorically. Absolutely more thriller than romance. Fascinating minor characters who all add visibly to the rush and flow of the story, internal and external. And a few of those all-too-rare creatures in MM: women who act like living, breathing humans.
The central relationship is fascinating, and the two main lovers are both perfect for each other and deeply scarred people. Interesting and sexy. Loads of tiny memorable moments and details that accrete to form these two men believably. I'd know them if I saw them on the street, and not cause they're naturalistic or homogenous. They're so stylized, but still humanized. Tricky thing to pull off, that. On the other hand, the entire book delays their actual "relationship" until literally the last 30ish pages. On the other-other hand the relationship (and intimacy) feels so earned that it works. Though deeply romantic, it doesn't feel like a romance. Interesting.
The BDSM is extremely well-handled and specified and complex. This doesn't feel like someone who's hit Wikipedia and the Mr. S catalog to assemble some quick-fix spanky naughtiness. Not only is BDSM here literally character-development in every case, but it evolves and refracts their internal landscapes as they converge. Imagine! Sex that means something! Rough sex that isn't a cartoon! Lyn Gala has thought not only about the "Tab-A, Slot B" mechanics of sex, but the way that very formalized sexual interaction reflects and affects the people involved. That last bondage/whipping scene is pretty fucking perfect, both as porn and as character-driven prose.
Oh yeah... and best cover of the damn year, hands down, goes to Dreamspinner Press for this one. Mesmerizing, spot-on without being even slightly literal.
Will I reread GATHERING STORM? Not sure yet, it's harrowing... but I definitely enjoyed reading it. And I'll be reading everything else she's written or will be writing. Newly minted fan here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2012
I'd give the first half four stars. The premise was well set up, and I forgive the author for using a very artificial contrivance to get the MCs together, because I liked the pairing enough to overlook it, and because it fitted in with the overall plot.
Then the plot started to drag, and I wanted some sex (a kiss, a spanking, ANYTHING!)between the MCs. I felt like the author forgot what genre they were writing in, and was trying to do a thriller, instead of m/m. So, for me, the book went down to about a 1.5 star from 55% to 80%: it was just very boring and wearying. You can have plot, character development, AND hot sex you know.
When we eventually got to the sex it was excellent: very well written, completly in-character, and quite delicious. The end was also extremely satisfying. I'll try another from the author if I get the sense there'll be more sex.
Then the plot started to drag, and I wanted some sex (a kiss, a spanking, ANYTHING!)between the MCs. I felt like the author forgot what genre they were writing in, and was trying to do a thriller, instead of m/m. So, for me, the book went down to about a 1.5 star from 55% to 80%: it was just very boring and wearying. You can have plot, character development, AND hot sex you know.
When we eventually got to the sex it was excellent: very well written, completly in-character, and quite delicious. The end was also extremely satisfying. I'll try another from the author if I get the sense there'll be more sex.
September 8, 2010
Lyn Gala also wrote the incredible Urban Shaman so I knew whatever had her name on it, I wanted to read. The latest offering, Gathering Storm, is another example of Gala’s slick, clean writing with solid characters, an engaging plot, and entertaining story. There is an element of dominance and submission woven throughout the entire story and it’s both obvious and nuanced. Yet the one sex scene is rather tame and I doubt will bother many non-BDSM fans. Overall this is an interesting story with well crafted characters that sucks you in from the beginning and doesn’t let go. It avoids all those cliché traps it could have fallen into and shows a skillful handling of the material while giving a quick moving story.
Vinnie Bernardi is a lost young man. He graduated from military academy a few years ago due to the tough love approach of a new teacher, Charleston, yet Vinnie left that life behind. He took on a new name, Vinnie Bernardi, and tries to be open with his life and needs. He’s not ashamed of being a gay submissive but he’s struggling since he can’t find what he needs. One night stands and pretenders are thrusting Vinnie further and further into despair. He’s acting out and close to forcing his boss RJ to take him in hand. Though RJ is a lesbian, she’s butch and toppy enough that Vinnie is thinking of giving into her threats of whipping. Though he’s not into pain, he wants someone to really control him and stop letting him manipulate everything and top from the bottom. He thinks maybe Charleston is that man but his woeful attempts to spy on the man starts a series of dangerous reactions that put both Vinnie and Charleston in danger.
The story is tightly plotted and has a gift of conveying a lot of information in a short amount of time without overwhelming the reader. Right away we learn that Vinnie changed his name, is a gay submissive acting out, and is obsessed with his old teacher Charleston. Vinnie believes that Charleston may be the only one who can truly top him and let him submit the way he dreams but Vinnie being Vinnie he can’t help but sabotage himself along the way. Vinnie is no doormat and he manipulates, cajoles, and controls almost every situation and person he meets. Charleston is one of the few who sees beyond the facades Vinnie shows the world yet Charleston has a mysterious past which becomes life threatening to Vinnie.
The story does a great job in setting all of this background up, while introducing the threat early on. There’s no lengthy, boring introduction. In fact the action starts quickly and we’re absorbed into Vinnie’s almost cringe worthy antics right away. You can’t help but feel for Vinnie even as you want to slap him upside the head. He’s a flawed, complicated, and fascinating character, truly worthy of carrying the story. Since told from his third person perspective, Vinnie is not always the most reliable. He sees Charleston as a bit of a god so Charleston comes across slightly too perfect. Charleston is the tall, dark, handsome, bad ass type that rarely speaks but does everything right. You have to remember though that’s how Vinnie sees him so the story stays true to Vinnie’s perspective. The offset to this is that Vinnie really is a mess and has enough mistakes, flaws, and charm to carry both the main characters.
Besides the wonderfully crafted characters, the story weaves the theme of dominance and submission into the story very well. It’s a main theme on several levels. There is Vinnie’s own submission and Charleston’s need for dominance but beyond that the story sets most of the characters up in these same terms. Charleston makes a comment that he sees the world in terms of dominants and submissives and that colors the cast as well. Each of the secondary characters from the truly scary and eye catching RJ to Dan and even the various law enforcement officials are given a top or bottom aura. Vinnie tends to think of the world in terms of who scares him, who he can control and who is like him so the cast settles into these niches as well. It’s not bad and also very nuanced since no one is a cardboard character. The true villain is also nicely portrayed with some creepy but interesting quirks that keeps him from being a classic mustache twirling evil doer.
The writing is once again top notch and Gala continues to impress with the clean prose, quick pace, and engaging story. There is one single sex scene (imagine!) and it’s tame with a little bit of bondage and an emotionally intense whipping but the scene itself isn’t too graphic to turn off those readers who aren’t too into BDSM. The themes are integral to the story but I don’t think would bother many readers. Instead I’d easily recommend this as a great blend of action, adventure, D/s, romance, and a quirky cast that will stay on your mind. The story is nicely wrapped up so I can’t imagine a sequel but I’ll simply wait and buy whatever Gala wants to write next.
Vinnie Bernardi is a lost young man. He graduated from military academy a few years ago due to the tough love approach of a new teacher, Charleston, yet Vinnie left that life behind. He took on a new name, Vinnie Bernardi, and tries to be open with his life and needs. He’s not ashamed of being a gay submissive but he’s struggling since he can’t find what he needs. One night stands and pretenders are thrusting Vinnie further and further into despair. He’s acting out and close to forcing his boss RJ to take him in hand. Though RJ is a lesbian, she’s butch and toppy enough that Vinnie is thinking of giving into her threats of whipping. Though he’s not into pain, he wants someone to really control him and stop letting him manipulate everything and top from the bottom. He thinks maybe Charleston is that man but his woeful attempts to spy on the man starts a series of dangerous reactions that put both Vinnie and Charleston in danger.
The story is tightly plotted and has a gift of conveying a lot of information in a short amount of time without overwhelming the reader. Right away we learn that Vinnie changed his name, is a gay submissive acting out, and is obsessed with his old teacher Charleston. Vinnie believes that Charleston may be the only one who can truly top him and let him submit the way he dreams but Vinnie being Vinnie he can’t help but sabotage himself along the way. Vinnie is no doormat and he manipulates, cajoles, and controls almost every situation and person he meets. Charleston is one of the few who sees beyond the facades Vinnie shows the world yet Charleston has a mysterious past which becomes life threatening to Vinnie.
The story does a great job in setting all of this background up, while introducing the threat early on. There’s no lengthy, boring introduction. In fact the action starts quickly and we’re absorbed into Vinnie’s almost cringe worthy antics right away. You can’t help but feel for Vinnie even as you want to slap him upside the head. He’s a flawed, complicated, and fascinating character, truly worthy of carrying the story. Since told from his third person perspective, Vinnie is not always the most reliable. He sees Charleston as a bit of a god so Charleston comes across slightly too perfect. Charleston is the tall, dark, handsome, bad ass type that rarely speaks but does everything right. You have to remember though that’s how Vinnie sees him so the story stays true to Vinnie’s perspective. The offset to this is that Vinnie really is a mess and has enough mistakes, flaws, and charm to carry both the main characters.
Besides the wonderfully crafted characters, the story weaves the theme of dominance and submission into the story very well. It’s a main theme on several levels. There is Vinnie’s own submission and Charleston’s need for dominance but beyond that the story sets most of the characters up in these same terms. Charleston makes a comment that he sees the world in terms of dominants and submissives and that colors the cast as well. Each of the secondary characters from the truly scary and eye catching RJ to Dan and even the various law enforcement officials are given a top or bottom aura. Vinnie tends to think of the world in terms of who scares him, who he can control and who is like him so the cast settles into these niches as well. It’s not bad and also very nuanced since no one is a cardboard character. The true villain is also nicely portrayed with some creepy but interesting quirks that keeps him from being a classic mustache twirling evil doer.
The writing is once again top notch and Gala continues to impress with the clean prose, quick pace, and engaging story. There is one single sex scene (imagine!) and it’s tame with a little bit of bondage and an emotionally intense whipping but the scene itself isn’t too graphic to turn off those readers who aren’t too into BDSM. The themes are integral to the story but I don’t think would bother many readers. Instead I’d easily recommend this as a great blend of action, adventure, D/s, romance, and a quirky cast that will stay on your mind. The story is nicely wrapped up so I can’t imagine a sequel but I’ll simply wait and buy whatever Gala wants to write next.
September 5, 2017
Unlike some readers, I liked the part about the Poet Killer and the chase to catch and eventually kill this crazy guy. I’m a reader of thrillers and I’ve watched series like NCIS, CSI, Criminal Minds, and so on for years. So I appreciate that the author gave a little plot to her story line. I do not see why the authors of BDSM novels should restrict themselves to BDSM plays and sex scenes in bedrooms or dungeons.
Personally, what I prefer by far in BDSM is Domination/submission. If I also like sadomasochism in BDSM novels, it’s of interest to me only if it’s used to accentuate the D/s interactions between the characters and brings a little more evidences that one dominates and the other submits.
Domination and submission are not limited to specific places such as bedrooms, dungeons or BDSM clubs no more than to particular activities. It's a way to think and to be. It's a life style. If one person is a dominator and the other a sub, the first one will dominate and the other will submit anywhere, in all things. And it's obvious in their least words, gestures and even in their nonverbal behaviour because Domination and submission are parts of their hearts and minds. And by the way, Charleston repeated many times that he didn't play the domineering guy.
Take for example the chase, Vinnie must cling and stay close to Charleston to make sure he wouldn't get lost among the maddened crowd in the smoke of the burning hospital. It was clear that Charleston dominated Vinnie, even in this unusual circumstance. And when Charleston was attacked by the Poet Killer, Vinnie considered himself "allowed" to kill Thompson only when Charleston gave his subtle command to do so, and even though Vinnie hated the idea of killing a man, he instantly obeyed. This is D/s at least as much as the bondage scene at the end of the novel.
I was recently looking for a novel in which the D/s relationship was very evident and strong without BDSM plays or sex scenes every other page. I found what I needed in this book. And if there was a sequel, I'd read it right away.
The only false note: I'm not sure that a good Dom wouldn’t have forced Vinnie to stay at the safe house while going with the FBI agent to get the killer. I understand that the author wanted to give her MC an opportunity to save his Dom’s life and that she couldn’t do otherwise without lengthening considerably her novel. But Vinnie was not trained for man-hunting, and Charleston was willingly putting his sub’s life in danger by allowing him to accompany them.
I give 4½ stars to this novel.
Personally, what I prefer by far in BDSM is Domination/submission. If I also like sadomasochism in BDSM novels, it’s of interest to me only if it’s used to accentuate the D/s interactions between the characters and brings a little more evidences that one dominates and the other submits.
Domination and submission are not limited to specific places such as bedrooms, dungeons or BDSM clubs no more than to particular activities. It's a way to think and to be. It's a life style. If one person is a dominator and the other a sub, the first one will dominate and the other will submit anywhere, in all things. And it's obvious in their least words, gestures and even in their nonverbal behaviour because Domination and submission are parts of their hearts and minds. And by the way, Charleston repeated many times that he didn't play the domineering guy.
Take for example the chase, Vinnie must cling and stay close to Charleston to make sure he wouldn't get lost among the maddened crowd in the smoke of the burning hospital. It was clear that Charleston dominated Vinnie, even in this unusual circumstance. And when Charleston was attacked by the Poet Killer, Vinnie considered himself "allowed" to kill Thompson only when Charleston gave his subtle command to do so, and even though Vinnie hated the idea of killing a man, he instantly obeyed. This is D/s at least as much as the bondage scene at the end of the novel.
I was recently looking for a novel in which the D/s relationship was very evident and strong without BDSM plays or sex scenes every other page. I found what I needed in this book. And if there was a sequel, I'd read it right away.
The only false note: I'm not sure that a good Dom wouldn’t have forced Vinnie to stay at the safe house while going with the FBI agent to get the killer. I understand that the author wanted to give her MC an opportunity to save his Dom’s life and that she couldn’t do otherwise without lengthening considerably her novel. But Vinnie was not trained for man-hunting, and Charleston was willingly putting his sub’s life in danger by allowing him to accompany them.
I give 4½ stars to this novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2011
Honestly, this book was nothing like I thought it would be. I was prepared for a nice, slow, steady ride but instead I got sucker-punched with an action-packed, roller coaster. Lol.
I loved Vinnie right from the start. He's just a confused sub that wants to be taken in hand. He does stupid things when he feels like he's rejected by strong doms due to a life of being neglected by his father. Charleston is the perfect dom for Vinnie since he never falls for Vinnie's attempts at manipulation but unfortunately he is also Vinnie's ex-teacher. Charleston is strong, confident but has a secret past and I liked the fact that he had some morals when it came to subs and students.
Honestly, the blurb doesn't do this book justice. It's vague on what Vinnie is thrust into because of his relationship with Charleston but I kind of liked that because it made what happened in the story all the more appealing since it was such a surprise. I loved the fact that the book was written from Vinnie's POV because it made the actions and thoughts of Charleston all the more mysterious.
Overall, this was an awesome book. I hope one day we get to see more of Vinnie and Charleston because I felt as if their relationship was just starting and I'm really hoping there's a sequel one day. Definitely recommended!
I loved Vinnie right from the start. He's just a confused sub that wants to be taken in hand. He does stupid things when he feels like he's rejected by strong doms due to a life of being neglected by his father. Charleston is the perfect dom for Vinnie since he never falls for Vinnie's attempts at manipulation but unfortunately he is also Vinnie's ex-teacher. Charleston is strong, confident but has a secret past and I liked the fact that he had some morals when it came to subs and students.
Honestly, the blurb doesn't do this book justice. It's vague on what Vinnie is thrust into because of his relationship with Charleston but I kind of liked that because it made what happened in the story all the more appealing since it was such a surprise. I loved the fact that the book was written from Vinnie's POV because it made the actions and thoughts of Charleston all the more mysterious.
Overall, this was an awesome book. I hope one day we get to see more of Vinnie and Charleston because I felt as if their relationship was just starting and I'm really hoping there's a sequel one day. Definitely recommended!
October 5, 2014
..hmmm. Nice badass character in Jeff Kalb. And for the most part this had a real nice dominant kink to it. (IMO) The ending could have withstood omitting the whole 'RJ' scene. In fact I'll go as far as saying the whole RJ conflict throughout the story was flat and forced and could have been omitted she was such an oversold character. 
November 27, 2013
This book is perhaps more thriller than romance, even though there is definitely a romance arc to it. Vinnie, the narrator, is compelling as a mouthy, somewhat self-centered and bratty young man, who really needs someone to take him in hand. In more ways than one.
He has escaped a life in the shadow of his rich and uncaring father to recreate himself. He changed his name, and now works at a bar, under the watchful eye of the dominant owner. She unfortunately is a lesbian, and not interested in Vinnie the way he would prefer. She keeps him from spinning too far out of control, but it's an uphill battle. Vinnie is a bit lost, and looking for an anchor, and more than willing to make some risky moves to find the man he needs.
Vinnie is obsessed with Charleston, an older military man who was his instructor in his last year at military school. He fantasizes that, now that he is an adult, there might be more between them than an order of push-ups and running laps. More than any of his other instructors, Charlseton seemed to know how to handle him, and even occasionally seemed amused by him. Vinnie sneaks onto the school grounds, watching, pretending that one day he might do more than just spy from a distance. But he doesn't really believe it, until his stalking catches Charleston's eye. Vinnie is delighted to have any notice at all from the object of his fantasies, but before he can figure out if he's more to Charleston than an obnoxious nuisance, the instructor's past catches up with them both. The subsequent story is a tight action plot of hostage-taking, violence, and consequences.
As is typical for this author, this book has only a small, although hot, amount of sex mixed into the plot. Personally, I really like that. I enjoy these stories where BDSM informs the character's lives and personalities, but BDSM scenes don't make up the majority of the action. I raced through the thriller plot and enjoyed it a lot.
He has escaped a life in the shadow of his rich and uncaring father to recreate himself. He changed his name, and now works at a bar, under the watchful eye of the dominant owner. She unfortunately is a lesbian, and not interested in Vinnie the way he would prefer. She keeps him from spinning too far out of control, but it's an uphill battle. Vinnie is a bit lost, and looking for an anchor, and more than willing to make some risky moves to find the man he needs.
Vinnie is obsessed with Charleston, an older military man who was his instructor in his last year at military school. He fantasizes that, now that he is an adult, there might be more between them than an order of push-ups and running laps. More than any of his other instructors, Charlseton seemed to know how to handle him, and even occasionally seemed amused by him. Vinnie sneaks onto the school grounds, watching, pretending that one day he might do more than just spy from a distance. But he doesn't really believe it, until his stalking catches Charleston's eye. Vinnie is delighted to have any notice at all from the object of his fantasies, but before he can figure out if he's more to Charleston than an obnoxious nuisance, the instructor's past catches up with them both. The subsequent story is a tight action plot of hostage-taking, violence, and consequences.
As is typical for this author, this book has only a small, although hot, amount of sex mixed into the plot. Personally, I really like that. I enjoy these stories where BDSM informs the character's lives and personalities, but BDSM scenes don't make up the majority of the action. I raced through the thriller plot and enjoyed it a lot.
September 26, 2011
I really, really enjoyed this book. Yes there were editing issues (missing words to be precise), but they didn't detract from the whole (which means I must have enjoyed the book because my OCD won't let me ignore editing issues all that much :) I loved that the plot didn't follow where I expected, but most of all I loved how I was able to get inside Vinnie's head, to know what he was feeling. Especially with regard to Charleston. And especially with regard to the last few chapters.
One of things that I always look for in any book is an insight into the characters. Especially the characters I can relate to. And weird as this may sound, I could relate to Vinnie. His inability to trust. The masks he wore. So, I wanted to know what he was feeling when he submitted, what he was searching for. And why. (So often books give me the physical descriptions but not the emotional ones...especially not afterwards.) Lyn Gala gave me that insight. What's frustrating is I wanted more. I didn't want the last few chapters to end where they did. So, for anyone who has read Gathering Storm, any book recommendations along such lines would be very gratefully received :) In the interim, I will be delving into Lyn Gala's backlist :)
One of things that I always look for in any book is an insight into the characters. Especially the characters I can relate to. And weird as this may sound, I could relate to Vinnie. His inability to trust. The masks he wore. So, I wanted to know what he was feeling when he submitted, what he was searching for. And why. (So often books give me the physical descriptions but not the emotional ones...especially not afterwards.) Lyn Gala gave me that insight. What's frustrating is I wanted more. I didn't want the last few chapters to end where they did. So, for anyone who has read Gathering Storm, any book recommendations along such lines would be very gratefully received :) In the interim, I will be delving into Lyn Gala's backlist :)
April 7, 2020
I loved this book, obviously since I gave it five stars. I’m not usually into thrillers and didn’t read the description carefully or I might of not started it. Once I got into the story I couldn’t put it down. I loved the dynamic between Charleston and Vinnie. They are two of my favorite characters this year.
September 12, 2011
2.5 Stars
First of all, this is not a love story or even a romance story. It's not some kind of triangle either & I think the blurb is pretty much misleading. This is a story that whether you like it or not very much depends on your feelings about the narrator, Vinnie Bernardi. In my case, he irritated the heck out of me. Frankly, if this wasn't a challenge book I'd have happily not bothered finishing this one.
I didn't find Vinnie's stalkerish tendencies endearing. He's one of those characters who is supposed to be a manipulative sub, a poor little rich boy type, a guy who likes to push people's buttons & has a tendency to do & say stupid things. He wore thin fast. Vinnie has set his sights on his former teacher, Charleston, whose graying hair & body was mentioned so many times, it made me wonder how old is he supposed to be? Whatever--I think he's way too old for the immature teenage acting Vinnie ( 2 years out of school). Writers love these age difference stories but when it gets to this type it's feels more like father & son than 2 lovers & it's very unsexy.
There's a plotty element that happens that takes up the majority of the story. It wasn't too bad & the main reason why this is not a one star book for me. However, it does depend on Vinnie doing idiotic things & Charleston being a badass who's better than everyone else, no matter their training. There's lots of eye roll worthy scenes here.
I do keep in mind that everything is seen through the eyes of Vinnie, who tends to see the world in terms of doms & subs & has a big case of hero worship going on for Charleston. Vinnie also does say & think a couple of things that made me laugh. It's not enough to make up for the whole persona, but he did have his moments.
The ending passage deals with the original issue of Vinnie seeking out his perfect dom to cure him of all that ails him or whatever. There's one scene at the end & then everything is all tidily swept up with a nice little conversation in which Vinnie is more the observer than the participant.
In summary, writing was fine, but this story really wasn't for me.
First of all, this is not a love story or even a romance story. It's not some kind of triangle either & I think the blurb is pretty much misleading. This is a story that whether you like it or not very much depends on your feelings about the narrator, Vinnie Bernardi. In my case, he irritated the heck out of me. Frankly, if this wasn't a challenge book I'd have happily not bothered finishing this one.
I didn't find Vinnie's stalkerish tendencies endearing. He's one of those characters who is supposed to be a manipulative sub, a poor little rich boy type, a guy who likes to push people's buttons & has a tendency to do & say stupid things. He wore thin fast. Vinnie has set his sights on his former teacher, Charleston, whose graying hair & body was mentioned so many times, it made me wonder how old is he supposed to be? Whatever--I think he's way too old for the immature teenage acting Vinnie ( 2 years out of school). Writers love these age difference stories but when it gets to this type it's feels more like father & son than 2 lovers & it's very unsexy.
There's a plotty element that happens that takes up the majority of the story. It wasn't too bad & the main reason why this is not a one star book for me. However, it does depend on Vinnie doing idiotic things & Charleston being a badass who's better than everyone else, no matter their training. There's lots of eye roll worthy scenes here.
I do keep in mind that everything is seen through the eyes of Vinnie, who tends to see the world in terms of doms & subs & has a big case of hero worship going on for Charleston. Vinnie also does say & think a couple of things that made me laugh. It's not enough to make up for the whole persona, but he did have his moments.
The ending passage deals with the original issue of Vinnie seeking out his perfect dom to cure him of all that ails him or whatever. There's one scene at the end & then everything is all tidily swept up with a nice little conversation in which Vinnie is more the observer than the participant.
In summary, writing was fine, but this story really wasn't for me.
September 22, 2011
I LOVED this book. I was completely surprised by how enjoyable this book was for me. It looked kind of good but I didn't expect it to be so good. The story was a nice slice of life story with military men in it. There is just something about military men which makes me melt. I think it's their sense of order, discipline and authority. The top in this book, Charleston was so HAWT! Older, a former teacher and former military black ops guy is pretty much a wet dream for me. I guess it is for Vinnie (aka Troy) too. It's good to know the main character and I have the same taste in men. And we even have similar sexual fantasies! WOOHOO!
I ended up giving this a 5 star because I will want to read parts of it over and over again. Yes, the story line wasn't very complex. It was a suspense trying to capture a killer. The thing that pulled me in is Vinnie's struggle. His lost little boy situation due to his asshole of a dad broke my heart. The way that Charleston was so dominating and was able to command Vinnie just made me constantly aroused. I like that in a book. I'm eagerly looking for other books by this author now. I recommend this to m/m lovers who enjoy a dominating top who is also loving. A sweet romance!
I ended up giving this a 5 star because I will want to read parts of it over and over again. Yes, the story line wasn't very complex. It was a suspense trying to capture a killer. The thing that pulled me in is Vinnie's struggle. His lost little boy situation due to his asshole of a dad broke my heart. The way that Charleston was so dominating and was able to command Vinnie just made me constantly aroused. I like that in a book. I'm eagerly looking for other books by this author now. I recommend this to m/m lovers who enjoy a dominating top who is also loving. A sweet romance!
September 24, 2011
Almost a 4 star read for me, bringing it down due to mere annoyance.
I love bratty characters with issues and Vinnie was a major brat and had issues in spades. He was my favorite character who showed the most growth and depth. I had no problems with him at all. I mostly liked Charleston too. We don't get his POV and in this case I didn't miss it. It brought home nicely the mysterious, dangerous vibe Vinnie was attracted to. In a way I kind of would've liked him to remain that way because once the man started talking he wouldn't shut up and honestly he bored me.
The story caught and held my attention at least until halfway through. I was surprised more than once. Again, once everyone began really talking I couldn't wait for it to end.
I love bratty characters with issues and Vinnie was a major brat and had issues in spades. He was my favorite character who showed the most growth and depth. I had no problems with him at all. I mostly liked Charleston too. We don't get his POV and in this case I didn't miss it. It brought home nicely the mysterious, dangerous vibe Vinnie was attracted to. In a way I kind of would've liked him to remain that way because once the man started talking he wouldn't shut up and honestly he bored me.
The story caught and held my attention at least until halfway through. I was surprised more than once. Again, once everyone began really talking I couldn't wait for it to end.
May 28, 2013
Forbidden fruit that's suddenly on the market.
Nice suspense plot in this rich boy breaks out and finds trouble story. The stripper, peeping tom gets caught and boy does he get more than he bargained for while trying to live his life on his own terms. Entertaining read, but I ddin't get a strong connection to the characters.
Nice suspense plot in this rich boy breaks out and finds trouble story. The stripper, peeping tom gets caught and boy does he get more than he bargained for while trying to live his life on his own terms. Entertaining read, but I ddin't get a strong connection to the characters.
October 28, 2014
This book was such a wonderful surprise, surprising in just how much I liked how the author crafted the story - it's different than your average m/m or bdsm book. And I really like different.
To try to explain this book, I'd have to say it's really three different stories. The first third of the book is all about getting to know a seriously damaged young man, who has impulse control issues. Vinnie is desperately trying to change his life, leaving behind the neglected, rich-boy by taking on a new name and new persona. Well, it's not working for him very well as he makes bad decisions because his needs are so overwhelming. He feels like he is falling apart, and he really is out of control as he pushes the limits of what his dyke/domme boss will stand for and stalks a previous teacher at the military academy he attended, because the man both scares and intrigues him. Most of Vinnie's fantasies revolve around this dominating man.
The second third of the book is suspense of the highest order. Vinnie has not only gotten himself in some serious shit, but he's dragged Charleston (his fantasy Dom from the military academy) into it as well. They may not make it out of this one alive. Nice plotting that kept me on my toes, but where was the bdsm I'd anticipated in this book? All I can say is "wait for it-it's in there."
The last third of the book is when it all comes together. The suspense is still high with a psycho killer to deal with and especially with the relationship between Vinnie and Charleston starting to get serious. BDSM fans will not be disappointed, and I absolutely loved how well Charleston understood what Vinnie really needed. I would so love to see a sequel to this story with lots more of Vinnie and Charleston growing their relationship. Sigh. I loved this book!
To try to explain this book, I'd have to say it's really three different stories. The first third of the book is all about getting to know a seriously damaged young man, who has impulse control issues. Vinnie is desperately trying to change his life, leaving behind the neglected, rich-boy by taking on a new name and new persona. Well, it's not working for him very well as he makes bad decisions because his needs are so overwhelming. He feels like he is falling apart, and he really is out of control as he pushes the limits of what his dyke/domme boss will stand for and stalks a previous teacher at the military academy he attended, because the man both scares and intrigues him. Most of Vinnie's fantasies revolve around this dominating man.
The second third of the book is suspense of the highest order. Vinnie has not only gotten himself in some serious shit, but he's dragged Charleston (his fantasy Dom from the military academy) into it as well. They may not make it out of this one alive. Nice plotting that kept me on my toes, but where was the bdsm I'd anticipated in this book? All I can say is "wait for it-it's in there."
The last third of the book is when it all comes together. The suspense is still high with a psycho killer to deal with and especially with the relationship between Vinnie and Charleston starting to get serious. BDSM fans will not be disappointed, and I absolutely loved how well Charleston understood what Vinnie really needed. I would so love to see a sequel to this story with lots more of Vinnie and Charleston growing their relationship. Sigh. I loved this book!
February 8, 2012
I loved this book from beginning to end. To start with, I instantly fell in love with Vinnie. He's so confused with what he wants/needs, and is a master manipulator in trying to obtain that. He's been let down and betrayed time and again by his father and other people throughout his life. Over the span of this story, he discovers things about himself and the true meaning of submission, mostly with the help of Charleston, his totally hot instructor from military school, who happens to be the one person Vinnie seems incapable of manipulating.
There is a lot of action in the form of a kidnapping and witness protection, and, while the BDSM theme runs strong and is the main focus of Vinnie's thoughts, there is very little of it actually presented. What is there is extremely well done.
As a side note, one of my major writing pet peeves appears in this book, only Ms. Gala managed to get it right - I will admit to doing a mental happy dance when I read it. The correct saying is "you've got another THING coming." Not, as most authors incorrectly state, "you've got another THINK coming." This has driven me nuts for ages. Thank you, Ms. Gala, for not only getting this correct, but for providing such an excellent, well written story. I look forward to reading more of your work and hope to see more of Vinnie and Charleston in the future. This story has ended, but you've only given us a taste of what they can be together.
There is a lot of action in the form of a kidnapping and witness protection, and, while the BDSM theme runs strong and is the main focus of Vinnie's thoughts, there is very little of it actually presented. What is there is extremely well done.
As a side note, one of my major writing pet peeves appears in this book, only Ms. Gala managed to get it right - I will admit to doing a mental happy dance when I read it. The correct saying is "you've got another THING coming." Not, as most authors incorrectly state, "you've got another THINK coming." This has driven me nuts for ages. Thank you, Ms. Gala, for not only getting this correct, but for providing such an excellent, well written story. I look forward to reading more of your work and hope to see more of Vinnie and Charleston in the future. This story has ended, but you've only given us a taste of what they can be together.
March 9, 2014
This is kind of a strange book. It starts off with Vinnie who is a rich kid who has turned away from his family and inheritance. Working as a stripper/janitor in a bar with a lesbian/Dom owner, he seems to found a new life except for the fact he is crushing on an old military teacher from his former life. Vinnie is interesting as a bratty sub that likes to top from the bottom and his stalker tendencies towards Charleston start off interesting. He is surrounded by some great secondary characters including RJ who looks out for him yet is exasperated by his tricks at the same time.
Then thing in this book just take a turn for the weird. What started off as a nice base for a D/s relationship story between Charleston and Vinnie turns into a crime story with a psychotic ex-military Dom, bombs, fires, guns, and the FBI. Vinnie flirts and is sarcastic through it all. I don't get any type of sexual tension between Charleston and Vinnie throughout the ordeal. Then in the end we get Charleston claiming Vinnie.
While the book had it's ups and downs the lack of any emotions from Charleston until the end just kind of kills the book for me. The beginning also spent sometime building characters like RJ and Dan only to have them irrelevant for most of the book. I liked the characters and was sad to see them disappear out of the book.
Then thing in this book just take a turn for the weird. What started off as a nice base for a D/s relationship story between Charleston and Vinnie turns into a crime story with a psychotic ex-military Dom, bombs, fires, guns, and the FBI. Vinnie flirts and is sarcastic through it all. I don't get any type of sexual tension between Charleston and Vinnie throughout the ordeal. Then in the end we get Charleston claiming Vinnie.
While the book had it's ups and downs the lack of any emotions from Charleston until the end just kind of kills the book for me. The beginning also spent sometime building characters like RJ and Dan only to have them irrelevant for most of the book. I liked the characters and was sad to see them disappear out of the book.
November 26, 2013
Erm...
Yeah, I guess I am going through a bit of a BDSM phase.
I know what you're thinking - I have proclaimed myself to be strictly vanilla (ok, maybe not so vanilla) in my reading tastes struggling with even a hint of Dom/sub and fainting at any description of a whip on the scene or a rope on the bed.
Ok, so that's not 100% true and qualifies an exaggeration...
BUT yeah. This isn't particularly hardcore, nor is it one of the best ever written but it marks an interesting moment for me where I suddenly feel I'm enjoying the dynamics of this dom/sub interaction and that's just one big great realisation for me to have on a Tuesday morning.
I did like this - I liked that fact that this wasn't a straight dive into an unrealistic sex scenario and declaration of love. Makes a change, really - though yes there were obviously elements of this that were in fact unbelievable and had me chuckling to myself.
I give this 3.5 stars and I recommend to any budding, curious BDSM peeps.
Yeah, I guess I am going through a bit of a BDSM phase.
I know what you're thinking - I have proclaimed myself to be strictly vanilla (ok, maybe not so vanilla) in my reading tastes struggling with even a hint of Dom/sub and fainting at any description of a whip on the scene or a rope on the bed.
Ok, so that's not 100% true and qualifies an exaggeration...
BUT yeah. This isn't particularly hardcore, nor is it one of the best ever written but it marks an interesting moment for me where I suddenly feel I'm enjoying the dynamics of this dom/sub interaction and that's just one big great realisation for me to have on a Tuesday morning.
I did like this - I liked that fact that this wasn't a straight dive into an unrealistic sex scenario and declaration of love. Makes a change, really - though yes there were obviously elements of this that were in fact unbelievable and had me chuckling to myself.
I give this 3.5 stars and I recommend to any budding, curious BDSM peeps.
December 8, 2015
I have never given a BDSM book less than 4 stars before. What the hell was this book really about. First you have this young submissive man stalking his old military instructor. I was so fooled by blurb. I love military stories but this one wasn't one. It was a suspense with military and D/s undertones. I understand the just of the story but that was misleading. The exposition was were she really lost me but I wanted to give her a chance because I've liked her other books. So I waiting for the rising action and I really wanted to give up but sometimes you have that feeling that it will turn around an be a really good book. So we get to the climax and I'm like what the fuck is this shit but I am to invested to stop, because I was giving her the benefit of the doubt. And where is the ROMANCE? Where is my D/s relationship? This should have been sold as a suspense than anything else. I was really disappointed in this book. I like Lyn Gala as an author but this one was just bad.
August 28, 2017
I was just going to read for an hour and then go run my errands. Instead I read the whole book from start to finish – it was that good.
Vinnie knows what he wants, what he needs, but he is not really good at finding it. He knows he is submissive, but he never really gives up control to anyone. There are only two people who make him want to give it up are either unattainable or his lesbian boss.
Charleston knows that Vinnie has been spying on him and while he finds it a little annoying he knows that Vinnie is not going to be easy to chase away. When Charleston's past puts Vinnie in grave danger (although to be fair Vinnie's lack of self-preservation helped with the situation), Charleston rides in to save the day.
I really enjoyed this book and I loved Charleston and Vinnie. However, the ending felt a little sudden and could have just used a little more detailed ending.
Vinnie knows what he wants, what he needs, but he is not really good at finding it. He knows he is submissive, but he never really gives up control to anyone. There are only two people who make him want to give it up are either unattainable or his lesbian boss.
Charleston knows that Vinnie has been spying on him and while he finds it a little annoying he knows that Vinnie is not going to be easy to chase away. When Charleston's past puts Vinnie in grave danger (although to be fair Vinnie's lack of self-preservation helped with the situation), Charleston rides in to save the day.
I really enjoyed this book and I loved Charleston and Vinnie. However, the ending felt a little sudden and could have just used a little more detailed ending.
September 9, 2010
(I swear I already did this review somewhere... bah.)
A really great story that wasn't at all what I expected it to be at first. It's more of a thriller than anything else, with just a touch of D/s thrown in for good measure. And Lyn's submission scenes are things of beauty - you can tell she knows what she's talking about; it really comes through in her descriptions.
I highly suggest the read. I'm on the fence about buying the paperback (which means I really like it). Rereading might help me decide.
A really great story that wasn't at all what I expected it to be at first. It's more of a thriller than anything else, with just a touch of D/s thrown in for good measure. And Lyn's submission scenes are things of beauty - you can tell she knows what she's talking about; it really comes through in her descriptions.
I highly suggest the read. I'm on the fence about buying the paperback (which means I really like it). Rereading might help me decide.
August 2, 2011
Excellent kinky m/m romance about the submissive son of a wealthy man who's been fascinated by one of his instructors since he was in military school several years before. But in his insecurity and neediness after not getting what he wants, he makes a very poor decision... that could cost him his life.
July 22, 2015
This book's been sitting on my TBR for ages; I just couldn't quite get into it. This time though I skimmed the first third and suddenly it was awesome! Go figure.
One day I might try reading it front to back, but right now I'm just glad I did it kinda-middle to back. ;-) Charleston is the most badassest of badass doms for real.
One day I might try reading it front to back, but right now I'm just glad I did it kinda-middle to back. ;-) Charleston is the most badassest of badass doms for real.
August 11, 2021
I first picked up this book a few months ago, but it put me off so hard I had to drop it. However, for some reason I didn't cast it away in the wind and I now decided to give it another try. On my first attempt I didn't enjoy the first three chapters and I have no reason to offer other than I was not in the mood for this kind of book. This time, I liked the first chapters a lot, I had a lot of fun reading about Vinnie's misbehaving. Unfortunately for me, I was also ready for a steamy hot book and that was not what I got. I got more thriller than anything else, and while I like thrillers and Lyn Gala has a way of writing that I can get lost in her books, I couldn't get over my expectations.
So I was enjoying myself, reading about Vinnie's antics, expecting things to go bad, but when they actually went bad I didn't see it. I was just as clueless as Vinnie had been. The danger literally stared us in the face and we were none the wiser. The whole kidnapping and Kalb's (I prefer Kalb more than Charleston) dark past made perfect sense, as well as all the followed.
Now, where I have some (other) issue with this book is the dialogue. When I'm reading something I like to be shown what's going on, what drives a character, what motivates them, and not be told. The dialogue did that a lot of the time, telling me what was happening and what to think about this guy or that one and as a result I didn't really connect with anyone and I don't feel like I actually know them.
While I still say that Lyn Gala is a great author, I love how versatile she can get, this book just didn't hit the spot and I was slightly disappointed. I really appreciate the research that went behind this book, it was entertaining and I would love to rate it higher, but I did not get what I signed up for.
So I was enjoying myself, reading about Vinnie's antics, expecting things to go bad, but when they actually went bad I didn't see it. I was just as clueless as Vinnie had been. The danger literally stared us in the face and we were none the wiser. The whole kidnapping and Kalb's (I prefer Kalb more than Charleston) dark past made perfect sense, as well as all the followed.
Now, where I have some (
While I still say that Lyn Gala is a great author, I love how versatile she can get, this book just didn't hit the spot and I was slightly disappointed. I really appreciate the research that went behind this book, it was entertaining and I would love to rate it higher, but I did not get what I signed up for.
October 8, 2010
Vinnie has escaped his past by inventing a new persona for himself. His father is a rich, controlling bastard (who maybe wants to have him committed - not 100% sure about that). Vinnie is living in the same town as the last military school that he attended - only with a new name and ID. He is also slightly obsessed with one of his old teachers, Charleston. The only man who he has ever really responded to, authority wise.
Vinnie is a manipulative, pushy little sub (aren't they all?). So much so, that you might question his submissiveness at first. He is spying on his teacher so that he has new material for his masturbatory fantasies. Yep. Charleston of course catches him, but thinks Vinnie is doing a bit more than some harmless watching. Charleston things he bugged his phone line.
Vinnie then gets napped by the guy who is actually after Charleston. Charleston comes to the rescue, they narrowly escape. Then they set out to get the bad guy. During this whole time Vinnie is running off his mouth, shamelessly flirting and saying crude things to anyone who will listen so as to embarass them. Yep.
Vinnie has a monotonous running commentary in his head about who is dominant and how that makes him feel and who would be a good top, and the things that he would do to manipulate them. It got old after a while.
So at the very end, Charleston does eventually tie him up & fuck him. The morning after Charleston is talking about Vinnie leaving because he's too old & he has these crazy things going on in his life etc... Then another 5 minutes later Charleston is taking Vinnie to his job & staring down his super dom cock harness dyke boss and telling her that he is now in control of Vinnie. Yep.
You can probably tell that Vinnie isn't my favorite character ever. But RJ, the super dom cock harness dyke boss is a pretty cool dude. I wouldn't mind a book about her! And Charleston is one of those quiet, you will drop and give me 20 when I raise one of my eyebrows at your crazy antics kind of guy - I like those kinds of guys <3
Vinnie is a manipulative, pushy little sub (aren't they all?). So much so, that you might question his submissiveness at first. He is spying on his teacher so that he has new material for his masturbatory fantasies. Yep. Charleston of course catches him, but thinks Vinnie is doing a bit more than some harmless watching. Charleston things he bugged his phone line.
Vinnie then gets napped by the guy who is actually after Charleston. Charleston comes to the rescue, they narrowly escape. Then they set out to get the bad guy. During this whole time Vinnie is running off his mouth, shamelessly flirting and saying crude things to anyone who will listen so as to embarass them. Yep.
Vinnie has a monotonous running commentary in his head about who is dominant and how that makes him feel and who would be a good top, and the things that he would do to manipulate them. It got old after a while.
So at the very end, Charleston does eventually tie him up & fuck him. The morning after Charleston is talking about Vinnie leaving because he's too old & he has these crazy things going on in his life etc... Then another 5 minutes later Charleston is taking Vinnie to his job & staring down his super dom cock harness dyke boss and telling her that he is now in control of Vinnie. Yep.
You can probably tell that Vinnie isn't my favorite character ever. But RJ, the super dom cock harness dyke boss is a pretty cool dude. I wouldn't mind a book about her! And Charleston is one of those quiet, you will drop and give me 20 when I raise one of my eyebrows at your crazy antics kind of guy - I like those kinds of guys <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2011
This book was not what I was expecting. Namely, it was not a romance. That's fine--it's just not what I thought it would be. This is a suspense. It is the story of Vinnie and how his obsession with his former military school teacher, Charleston, leads him into unknown danger. The suspense was good, but I was unsatisfied with the ending. After Vinnie spent the entire book fantasizing about Charleston, I wanted more to be resolved with their possible relationship. I would be interested in reading a sequel to this book, focusing on the two of them.
*I love the cover of this book! One of my favorites!*
*I love the cover of this book! One of my favorites!*
May 30, 2014
This was more thriller then romance, but that didn't take away any of my enjoyment. My problem with this was that I just didn't really care for either of the main characters.
I am sure this was a case of it was me. not the book, and I have enjoyed everything else that I have read from this author, so I am putting it down to personal taste, and that in no way reflects on the talent of this author. She has actually written some of my favourite characters in other books of hers.
I am sure this was a case of it was me. not the book, and I have enjoyed everything else that I have read from this author, so I am putting it down to personal taste, and that in no way reflects on the talent of this author. She has actually written some of my favourite characters in other books of hers.
December 27, 2020
DNA @20%
1-Spying on a highschool instructor while jerking off in the trees is CREEPY
2-Buying a camera to film him so you can jerk at home is CREEPY
3-Vinnie needs a restraining order and good ol' therapy
4-Chalerston somehow didn't seem freaked out. Why?
5-He admitted he used to be horny for a 17 year old, so he can join Vinnie in jail and therapy
6-BDSM aspect was so bleh. Vinnie was already a pile of goo over Charleston for no good reason.
7-Did I mention CREEPY???
1-Spying on a highschool instructor while jerking off in the trees is CREEPY
2-Buying a camera to film him so you can jerk at home is CREEPY
3-Vinnie needs a restraining order and good ol' therapy
4-Chalerston somehow didn't seem freaked out. Why?
5-He admitted he used to be horny for a 17 year old, so he can join Vinnie in jail and therapy
6-BDSM aspect was so bleh. Vinnie was already a pile of goo over Charleston for no good reason.
7-Did I mention CREEPY???
January 14, 2014
Oh I really enjoyed this! Charleston is so deliciously toppy and Vinnie is needy and bratty and adorable. Lots of unrequited longing and UST but also an actual plot with action. Pushed all my buttons. :)
March 1, 2016
With the exception of a few pages, I didn't like this book. Came so close to doing a DNF. My main issue was Vinnie (one the main characters). Manipulative, stereotyped, gives submissives a bad name, immature - absolutely nothing redeeming about this character.
August 23, 2011
The writing is BRILLIANT but I couldn't friggin stand Vinne/Troy. It was also long on BDSM theory, idealizing one form of submission over others.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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