Slave (Finding Anna #1)

Oct 18, 2012 Stacia ~ Mistress of Mediocrity rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: adult

Adult review for taboo content.

Curiouser and curiouser...

For a book about sexual slavery, it's actually sort of funny how there was not even one full sex scene. HAH. How's that for writing around a subject?

Maybe I'm feeling extra generous in giving this book 4 stars because I did have moments where I felt like the characters were paper cutouts of real life characters. Maybe I shouldn't have enjoyed a book so much in which the main character was so childlike (barely legal, yet had the emotional...more

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May 22, 2012 Becs - Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: alpha-hero, contemporary-romance, dark-angsty, human-trafficking-slavery, kindle, master-slave-tpe, shy-heroine, super-rich-hero, abused-heroine, dark-erotica

When I first read the synopsis: a rich, handsome philanthropic young man, heavily into D/s acquires a young lady to keep as his submissive in his apartment, I was thinking "Are the Shades of Fifty to be thus polluted"? But I was wrong, very wrong.

This book is absolutely nothing like Fifty Shades - there is no BDSM, hardly any sex and it's not an erotic romance. It's a story of a damsel deep in distress being rescued by a knight in shining armour. It's beautiful but deeply disturbing.

Stephan is...more When I first read the synopsis: a rich, handsome philanthropic young man, heavily into D/s acquires a young lady to keep as his submissive in his apartment, I was thinking "Are the Shades of Fifty to be thus polluted"? But I was wrong, very wrong.

This book is absolutely nothing like Fifty Shades - there is no BDSM, hardly any sex and it's not an erotic romance. It's a story of a damsel deep in distress being rescued by a knight in shining armour. It's beautiful but deeply disturbing.

Stephan is our knight - a young but very rich CEO who is very much a dominant. One of his friends tells him that he's seen a young girl being kept by someone that they know as a slave and that she looks terrified and is also for sale. Stephan has the wealth to buy a slave but is deeply opposed to the practice but goes to check her out anyway. When he sees her, Brianna, he is appalled. She is clearly not there by choice, she is terrified and badly bruised.

He buys her and takes her home with a view to freeing her but realises she is deeply scarred emotionally and needs some careful guidance. Brianna, of course, believes she has swapped one evil and brutal sadist Master for another and it takes a long time for trust to build.

Brianna just breaks your heart – she has been so badly misused by her previous Master that she is not just submissive, she is completely and utterly broken down. She is scared to death of her new Master, what he will do to her and her fear is just palpable.

Brianna's experiences with her previous Master are only partially and slowly revealed mostly through her own flashbacks. The chapters are told from either Stephan's or Brianna's alternating POV and it's through her anxiety that we start to see what has happened to her in the past. It's deeply disturbing.

Slowly, Stephan realises that he is falling in love with this young girl, and she is only 18, and that she may never have the emotional strength or capacity to return his love. We're left very much on edge at the end of this novel and I just want to bash Sherri Hayes over the head for doing it to us - Brianna is left pondering a choice at the end and her decision is unknown. Grrrrrr!! Still I guess it's the hallmark of a good story, well told, that it leaves you desperate for more!

So, I urge people to read this - it's not a hardcore BDSM novel (which is what I was expecting), it's the story of an abused young girl and her first faltering steps on the long road to recovery. It's stunning, the words zipped past my eyes at a rate of knots and I just couldn't put it down. Bring on the sequel!

Big, BIG 5 stars

(less)

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Oct 25, 2012 Spynonu rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: own-it

3.5 stars.

This book isn't what I was expecting. It isn't erotica and it isn't a classic BDSM story though some elements are there.

This is a story about a woman trying to recover from an abusive slavery situation and the man/Dom who helps her. There is a lot of ground to cover in this book and when it ends the story feels unfinished.

Since the title is Finding Anna #1 I suspect that her story continues. At least I hope it does because I want to know what happens next.

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May 07, 2012 Juls rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: mind-f-ck, bdsm

At first i was really turned off by the fact that the lead female was 18. i like my couple to be age appropriate 25-40 ish range. but the more i read the more i enjoyed it. It was so much more than about sex, which there isnt any but more about healing and love and acceptance.

very pleasantly surprised for sure.
the ending was very abrupt and finding out that theres a book 2 made me understand the ending or lack there of a bit better.

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Jul 26, 2012 Katy rated it 3 of 5 stars

3.5 stars - This book wasn't mind-blowing, but it was better than I thought it was going to be.

First of all, I liked the premise of the story. To have a girl forced into slavery and so devastatingly broken that a usually dominant man is going to have to walk on eggshells as he tries to help this damaged girl - wow, pretty intense.

But intense was something that it was not. I was expecting to see more frustration on Stephen's part - and I read enough of it, but I felt it was a bit surface deep, a...more 3.5 stars - This book wasn't mind-blowing, but it was better than I thought it was going to be.

First of all, I liked the premise of the story. To have a girl forced into slavery and so devastatingly broken that a usually dominant man is going to have to walk on eggshells as he tries to help this damaged girl - wow, pretty intense.

But intense was something that it was not. I was expecting to see more frustration on Stephen's part - and I read enough of it, but I felt it was a bit surface deep, and I didn't get to feel any of it. Perhaps it was because Hayes was writing it from a male point of view and trying to not make him a sappy character. But Stephen was very sweet and patient - which is a very swoon-worthy thing - so there was a lot of emotions involved - just not the ones I was expecting.

But I also felt the same with Brianna's point of view. It was nice to catch glimpses of her thoughts and how she was dealing with such a strange situation. But again, I wanted to see more of that desperation, that confusion that in a typical book like this would overwhelmingly pull at my heart. And I sympathized with her enough, but to be honest, I was expecting to tear up, and that didn't happen.

Having said that, I do like the story, the progression and how Stephen slowly gets Brianna to trust him. I just wish I connected with the characters a bit more, especially in a book with such an intense concept.

And I think the book was very vague in a lot of places that needed more explaining . I found myself stopping more than once saying, "But what about…" In one particular instance is how does a county sheriff get involved with someone like Ian. No explanation whatsoever.

I will say I am VERY dissatisfied with the end. I thought I was missing some pages. I know Hayes purposely left the book open-ended with promise of more to come in a sequel, but there wasn't a nicely packaged happily ever after or a shocking cliffhanger that leaves you craving for more. It just, well, ended. Although I'm not absolutely dying to know what happens next, I am curious, and I did promise a friend I would read the sequel.

On a side note that has NOTHING to do with my review, I don't know where I got the impression this was a BDSM erotic book. I mean, it's definitely for a mature audience, but I'm kind of disappointed there wasn't more sex. (view spoiler) Laugh if you will, but I was hoping I can now say that I've tried a taste of such books. LOL, can't cross it off my bucket list yet.(less)

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Nov 28, 2011 Carrie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: adult

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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May 24, 2012 Michelle [Helen Geek] rated it 3 of 5 stars Recommends it for: A risky endeavor, but worth a peek.

Recommended to Michelle by: Becs G 5Star review!

Shelves: too-damned-spensive-lucy, nook-tbr, tbr-kindle, 3-star, ntm_authors_2012, not-my-cup-of-tea

This sounds good, but $9 [eBook] for a new author [Amazon & B&N], I'll wait a bit.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
3 Stars

I'm so glad I read this book, and I hope not to offend any with my review. This book has me conflicted. Who am I to define the meaning of love for another? I can only define it for myself. I would not be able to love someone who considered themselves less a person than I. This is a story of love, survival and salvation.

Brianna is a slave bought by the m...more This sounds good, but $9 [eBook] for a new author [Amazon & B&N], I'll wait a bit.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
3 Stars

I'm so glad I read this book, and I hope not to offend any with my review. This book has me conflicted. Who am I to define the meaning of love for another? I can only define it for myself. I would not be able to love someone who considered themselves less a person than I. This is a story of love, survival and salvation.

Brianna is a slave bought by the man who eventually comes to love her. He buys her to save her. She is being mistreated and this comes to his attention. He is a dominant looking for a new submissive, so his buying her poses no issue for this society. Brianna has been seriously abused and is totally wrecked mentally. This where I start to have issues. Rather than seek mental help for this young lady, Stephen works with her himself. There is nothing sexual in this book. Stephen offers tender care to Brianna, but to say she has serious issues - a great understatement. She continues to call him Master and to consider herself a slave. I agree with Stephen doing what he can to get Brianna safe - even "buying" her. I don't agree with the remainder of the story.

Stephen falls in love with Brianna, but I wonder how? I think this question pulled me through the remainder of the book. Then, I had the epiphany. Love isn't for me to define for another, I can only define it for me. I wouldn't consider the foundation Stephen builds for Brianna stable enough where love can begin and grow, but this is my opinion based on my paradigms. Others may read this and find it a perfect place and good beginning.

I found this story very disturbing. It is not my cuppa. I'm not sure I like the writers style at all and didn't think the backstory for the characters well developed. I'm not sure I'll read another by this one.

Not sure if you will happily read this one or not. If you do, great. If you don't, not my fault. I tried to honestly tell you what I got out of this story.

Happy Reading!(less)

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Oct 03, 2011 Riane Kinky Book Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: bdsm, sherri-hayes, anna-series

I honestly enjoyed this book but giving it a review is not the easiest thing to do. Some books are easy to review just by asking yourself if you enjoyed it, what parts you liked and what you didn’t, how easy the book was to read, and then write it all down and give it a rating. However, with a book such as this one, it’s a bit more involved because the story itself is not as straight forward. Reading and reviewing this story requires more thought and decision work than most.
Let me first make it...more I honestly enjoyed this book but giving it a review is not the easiest thing to do. Some books are easy to review just by asking yourself if you enjoyed it, what parts you liked and what you didn’t, how easy the book was to read, and then write it all down and give it a rating. However, with a book such as this one, it’s a bit more involved because the story itself is not as straight forward. Reading and reviewing this story requires more thought and decision work than most.
Let me first make it clear that I enjoyed this book immensely. The characters are a joy to meet and learn about. They are likable and easily draw you in to the story. You care what is going to happen and feel for each character. (Even hate for a specific character…which I’m sure you will recognize this character if you read the book.)

Brianna is a young woman who has seriously suffered at the hands of an abusive sadist. I do not say that lightly. Being in the lifestyle, I do not consider a sadist as an abuser generally. We are all entitled to our own extreme of our kink of choice. However, this jerk is definitely an abuser. She has gone through a lot and has a lot of emotional damage, but you can tell she is strong underneath and hope that if given time and help, she can recover.

With Stephan, you can feel and understand the difficult issues, and his worries, when he is attempting to help Brianna. Add in the stress of dealing with family and a demanding professional life.

There are wonderful hints of chemistry between the characters throughout the book that hint at the future heat that I think will flare between them. I really do appreciate that Ms Hayes took the time to show that recovery from the extent of damage done to Brianna does not occur overnight, or over a chapter or two.

As much as I enjoyed reading Slave, I did encounter a few issues. First, the book is told in first person. While I do not prefer this style, Ms Hayes managed it well by clearly marking the sections between the characters. Instead of changing back and forth quickly, she gives you time to settle in and understand before changing the character. I actually feel that the story would have lost some of the emotions if she hadn’t written it this way.

The second issue, for me, was that the classification is not appropriate for this specific book. It is marketed as a BDSM erotica. Nonetheless, there was no sex in the entire book, and while I do believe you need to be familiar with Master/slave relationships to understand the story, there was no overt BDSM in this book. However, based on the ending, I suspect the next installment will easily qualify for those categories. Based on that, I assume this is a series classification more than the book classification alone. I know I would be a bit upset to read a story classified as something I normally read and then find out, the next book in the series is classified as a genre I am uninterested in reading.

The third issue, and my biggest problem, is that I was not aware this book is not a standalone. I usually prefer a nice bow on the end of a book. With Slave, I finished it and ran to my computer to verify that it was the end and that my copy wasn’t missing the rest of the book! I was quite unhappy to learn that I was not missing any of the book, but I really enjoyed this book so much that I am waiting with baited breath for the next segment!

I do recommend reading Slave if you have an interest in BDSM. If you are looking for a well written book with characters and a storyline that pull you in and makes you want to learn more about what is going to happen, read this book. If you are looking for a heated story with a quick clean HEA, this book might not be the one for you. If you do read this book, please keep the following in mind: As of the writing of this review, this series is expected to span over at least 4 books with book 2 currently scheduled for release around summer of 2012. And just to save you the searching… Yes, your copy is complete and that is the end of the book.

http://www.kinkybookreviews.com (less)

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Jun 21, 2012 Chanda rated it 3 of 5 stars

Some spoilers ahead!

This was a really good read. The hero Stephen is just that.....a Hero. He buys Brianna to save her from the horrible situation she is in. Brianna is a slave and has had a very tragic past with her Master who has abused her both physically and emotionally. Stephen really made the book great. I love that is was told in his POV and Brianna's.

The things that kept me from not rating it higher is that the bulk of the book it seemed like all Brianna did was cry. Also the book just...more

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Jun 27, 2012 Nia rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: erotic-romance, bdsm

Slave is a book centered solely on the post traumatic fear experienced by a slave and how her new Master tries to help her deal with the trauma. There are no sex scenes, BDSM scenes (aside from traumatic memories), or even erotic scenes. The closest you will come to erotica are a few kisses.

With that said, I found the book to be well developed and the story interesting. The entire book is about helping Brianna (Anna) deal with making her own choices and seeing the world in a different light. Ve...more

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Jan 28, 2012 Diana Leigh rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: nook-two, contemporary-romance, taboo

What really worked: SLAVE is a unique story in the genre of BDSM fiction. It's about a dom who rescues an abused young woman being held against her will as a sex slave, and then her journey begins to become whole again.

The characters and their interactions were masterfully written. After 10 months of physical, psychological and sexual abuse, Brianna is truly broken. When Stephan hears about Brianna's situation, he's compelled to help her. With his line of work, it's obvious he's a compassionate...more

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Aug 06, 2011 Dee Wy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: bdsm, review-copy, m-f, series, slave-captive-prisoner

3 1/2 stars rounded up. This story begins with Brianna living in an extremely abusive slave relationship from which she cannot escape. Stephan is a dominant who is looking for a submissive when a friend tells him of Brianna's situation. Being Stephan, he cannot walk away from her plight and approaches her current master, who is known to be abusive. When Stephan first sees Brianna, he knows he wants her and is forced to "buy" her from her master.

The balance of this story is told in mostly Stephan...more

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Mar 25, 2012 Sandra rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: own-ebooks, rewritten-fanfiction, are-you-effing-serious, wtf-is-this, shouldn-t-be-published, severe-side-eyes, read-the-fanfic-for-free, not-cool, no-just-no

This is only the first installment of what appears to be a series of books. First off, this was originally a Twilight fanfic that ended in pretty much the same spot as this book. And other than names and places, I couldn't find much different in this published version.

Brianna (Anna) is a young woman in a horrible situation. Stephan is made aware of the horrors and decides to rescue her by purchasing her from her current 'owner'. The subject of involuntary slavery and human trafficking is touche...more This is only the first installment of what appears to be a series of books. First off, this was originally a Twilight fanfic that ended in pretty much the same spot as this book. And other than names and places, I couldn't find much different in this published version.

Brianna (Anna) is a young woman in a horrible situation. Stephan is made aware of the horrors and decides to rescue her by purchasing her from her current 'owner'. The subject of involuntary slavery and human trafficking is touched upon in a respectful manner. What is not made clear is that by handing a check to Brianna's current owner, Stephan has likely implicated himself as well and might be held responsible for his actions down the road. This point is at no time brought up.

The rest of the story is basically a depiction of Stephan's attempts to help Brianna overcome the trauma and Brianna's confusion at the actions of her new master. His approach may not be the most conventional but over the course of this book, it becomes clear that what he is doing is actually working.

As with most books I've purchased from this publisher, spelling and punctuation errors can be found throughout the book, and this often distracts the reader and contorts the meaning of a specific sentence.

The ending of this first installment is unfortunate, in a way. There is no information as to the next book, or anything. It just ends. This could have been handled much better, in my opinion.

I have to say that while I liked it, I can't give it more than three stars. The writing is uneven, and the switching POVs between Stephan and Brianna don't work well for me. It would have been better had this book been revised into 3rd person POV. Seeing the character names in bold before the sections is distracting and interrupts the flow.

ETA 3/25/12:

This book was one of my first forays into purchasing rewritten Fanfiction. Had I known then what I know now, I would not have given this book a second glance. As such, I will not be buying the next installments. (less)

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Dec 17, 2011 Spoiler Whore drops the F bomb rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Spoiler Whore drops the F bomb by: Taryn Cellucci

Shelves: sherri-hayes

4.25 stars

First I would love to thank the wonderful Taryn Cellucci for this gift. You're the best T!

Characters: Brianna and Stephan

I've never read a story like this about BDSM. This story shows how the bad side of BDSM can affect a person. Person: Brianna. We really don't get how she got to where she was until Stephan bought her. But she thinks herself as a slave. She's broken, doesn't trust anyone and is emotional and physically scarred. Stephan tries to help Brianna to come out of her mental s...more

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Jan 31, 2013 Chris' Book Blog Emporium rated it 5 of 5 stars

Complete review of Both Slave and Need can be found on the Need Book here

http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

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Sep 12, 2012 Tom rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

** Update ** I originally 4 starred this book thinking it was a promising start to a series. After the let down of the second book I am going with 3.5.

I’m going with 4.25 on a story that wasn’t as dark as I thought it might be but WAS exactly what I was hoping for. Please don’t let that stop you from reading this review because this book might have something even if this wasn’t on your radar.

The hardest part of this review is going to be the target audience. I’m not sure that the hard core 50 t...more ** Update ** I originally 4 starred this book thinking it was a promising start to a series. After the let down of the second book I am going with 3.5.

I’m going with 4.25 on a story that wasn’t as dark as I thought it might be but WAS exactly what I was hoping for. Please don’t let that stop you from reading this review because this book might have something even if this wasn’t on your radar.

The hardest part of this review is going to be the target audience. I’m not sure that the hard core 50 type people that I expected to be pimping this out to are going to enjoy it as much as I thought going in. On the other hand the YA audience who enjoy a great love story will probably love this. With my YA peeps outnumbering the hard core I have a feeling that I am going to see plenty of statuses about this book in the coming weeks. On the other hand where this series is going in book two could very draw to an awfully wide range of people.

Steven, a rich, president of a non-profit organization is a Dom without a current submissive. His friend sees Brianna at a party and it becomes apparent that she is not playing this role willingly and contacts Steven knowing that he is the kind of person that would want to help her out of the situation and might want her for a submissive. His friend did not have the resources to purchase Brianna which is why he reaches out to Steven for help. Steven agrees to buy Brianna who has been thoroughly broken down mentally and physically from her present “owner.” I didn’t use Dom here because she is in no way a willing participant in the part she is forced to play. As Steven attempts to slowly build her back up he finds himself falling in love with her which eats at him knowing that when he lets her go she just might leave.

The good. This story is a page turner. Not an intense sit on the edge of your seat but one that grabbed you and just never really let go. I normally need a break but I probably could have read this in one sitting if life didn’t get in the way. All the characters are likable and I just enjoyed the journey of seeing Steven try to rebuild Brianna. The story is told in 2 POV’s, Brianna’s and Steven’s. I have only read a couple books with 2 POV and although I’m not a big fan of that this one was done perfectly in that setting. Just when you were wondering what the other one was thinking they would switch POV’s. LOVED it. Brianna's character is so broken its hard to say I loved her. I totally felt for her and hope she gets a HEA and I have a feeling I'm going to fall in love in the second book( I mean she loves books right! ) but in this one it was more pity for me.

The bad. I actually didn’t have a problem with the whole book.(hmm did I rate it right) I will go into what might bother some other readers. Steven drove me crazy with his decisions. It is so easy to pick apart this book and say he should have done this or that, which believe me I DID!! But that part of the book could have easily been listed under the good section of this review. It is what drove the book forward. He could have sent for professional help but then I wouldn’t be staring at the damn calendar right now looking for the release of Need.

(view spoiler) Just WOW!!

Need comes out on July 26,2012 and I will definitely be moving on with this series. I actually have very high hopes for the book and expect many pretty stars from it. There are so many directions this series could go in that I am soo looking forward to the second book in the series.

This book was provided by Netgalley and Smith Publicity.(less)

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Jul 27, 2012 Lex rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: adult, contemporary

Okay. My curiosity got the better of me so I've read this one. When you got friend who are all reading a book, you CAN'T HELP but be curious what it was all about. :P

The story was really interesting for me. It's really not my genre, I'm more of YA reader and this one was certainly NOT YA. BDSM too IS NOT my THING, I don't get why people like to use whips, cuffs or anything else I don't want to know about, just to be satisfied with sex or whatever.

The plot had me going that even though it still...more Okay. My curiosity got the better of me so I've read this one. When you got friend who are all reading a book, you CAN'T HELP but be curious what it was all about. :P

The story was really interesting for me. It's really not my genre, I'm more of YA reader and this one was certainly NOT YA. BDSM too IS NOT my THING, I don't get why people like to use whips, cuffs or anything else I don't want to know about, just to be satisfied with sex or whatever.

The plot had me going that even though it still took me more than 6hours of reading whereas SOME people I know finished it for just 2 and a half hours, I still finish it in one day. So yay me! Anyway, I commend Stephan for being patient with Brianna. Cause well, I'm not a patient woman, if I'm him, I'll just end up threatening her or something. :D

And I don't get how Stephan is so damn rich. Well yes, he's the President and CEO of a non-profit charity organization. Um, how did he became rich? Did being in the charity business will really make you rich?! If so, I'll want to start one! :P Stephan's frustration is really not showing that much. He's patient but I want him to lose his patience! Cause it's not easy to deal with people!

Brianna, she's Anna right? Btw, why Finding Anna? Cause she lost her way? Because she's a slave? Well okay, so Brianna, I understand her problems, traumas but... whatever.

I like that Stephan slowly works his way to earn Brianna's trust. I like how he said that he'll not have her if she didn't want him to. That the initiative to have sex should come from Brianna and not him even though he really wanted to, you know.

AND WHAT IS WITH THAT ENDING? Just like that? It's not really what you call a cliffhanger... but still, you will ask the question "That's it? I read the whole book and you'll leave it like that?" Thank Goodness for book 2 that's out now. But since all of my friends are saying that it's such a cliffhanger... I should stay away from it for now. :P

There are also lots of unanswered questions in my mind. And I couldn't list them all. I just wished it'll be answered on the next book. And hurrah for the next book! There's a sex scene! Been waiting for that in book 1 but no, there's no sex scene in SLAVE which kinda disappoints me. :P(less)

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May 10, 2013 Becky rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed-for-author, my-favorite-books, bdsm-group-r2r

This book was amazing! I actually give it 4.5 stars.

It is about a 18 year old female slave named Brianna who has been extremely broken by her Master Ian. This is brought to the attention of a wealthy man named Stephan. Stephan is a Dom who is searching for a sub of his own but when he learns of Brianna he pays a significant amount of money to Ian for her purchase.

After spending just a short amount of time with her, Stephan cannot believe how cruelly someone can treat another person and still sle...more

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Nov 08, 2012 Bodea rated it 3 of 5 stars

That was ....interesting. I thought it was well written, but I have some issues with where this might go from here and I kind of agreed with Stephan's uncle. Full review to come.

This book wasn't at all what I was especting and I'm glad. I'm not sure why it's categorized as erotica because it was very tame. I've heard a lot about this book and the blurb piqued my interest.I thought Slave was very well written and the premise is great, but the plot and characters could have been a little stronger....more That was ....interesting. I thought it was well written, but I have some issues with where this might go from here and I kind of agreed with Stephan's uncle. Full review to come.

This book wasn't at all what I was especting and I'm glad. I'm not sure why it's categorized as erotica because it was very tame. I've heard a lot about this book and the blurb piqued my interest.I thought Slave was very well written and the premise is great, but the plot and characters could have been a little stronger.

First, I liked Stephan and Brianna. I think that character development was naturally slow because of the premise of the story and it happens in a manner that doesn't detract from the overall enjoyment of the book. My only issue is that I wish the writing for the characters offered a bit more depth and evoked more emotion. These are some serious issues that the characters are dealing with here, but the emotion never quite really reached me. There were times where Brianna was supposed to be scared or panicing and it just didn't impact me emotionally the way I would have liked. Likewise, there are times when Stephen is supposed to be disgusted to the point of anger and I was just meh about it all. Still, I liked them both well enough and I was invested. I was eager to find out how Brianna got into this situation and how Stephan would handle the situation he'd taken on.

My other issue with this book is that, while I appreciated Stephen taking initiative to get Brianna out of a bad situation and trying to help her, at a certain point, I felt that professionals should have been brought in. Oh, I know this is a BDSM book, but a little therapy for Brianna might go a long way. This book ends with Brianna having to make a choice for herself that I'm not sure she's completely ready to make. I don't know if I'm comforatable with the only two choices laid out before her. (view spoiler).

With that said, I think this was a solid start to what looks to be a series. It was well written and it definitely makes you think. The plot moved along nicely. Yes, nothing much happens,but I feel like it's warranted given where the characters are. Hopefully, the next book will offer more movement with the plot. I recommend this book for those who aren't sure if this genre is something they wanna go all in on.(less)

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Dec 22, 2011 Suzanne the Mighty ~Satin Seductress~ rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: pdf-kindle, whips-and-chains-excite-me, sweeter-than-honey

Reviewed on Under the Covers with my girl Angela : )

Brianna is an unwilling slave. Sold to a sadistic dom who enjoys her humilation and pain he inflicts horrors on her in an effort to break her. He succeeds. Now sold to a new Master she has no idea what to expect, certainly not the kindness and compassion he shows her as he tries to heal her and gain her trust.

Both Suz and Angela read this book, here's what they had to say...

*Starts trying to use gtalk on their phones, but had to stop due to hu...more

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Aug 05, 2011 Julie Downey rated it 5 of 5 stars

I just wanted to say how much i appreciate the way you handle this topic with grace and dignity. Human slavery does exist in this world, and girls are being held as sex slaves right now. Jacee Dugard is one such example, no one should be forced to do anything sexual against their will that being said there are some consenting adults that choose to go into a BDSM lifestyle and for them it fulfills a need. It is not the same a rape or abuse. Sure there are some people involved in this lifestyle th...more

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May 13, 2013 Oceans rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Oceans by: provided by the Author through BDSM group TPE BAR Read2Review

Shelves: r2r, bdsm-group-r2r, abuse, bdsm, bdsm-power-play, contemporary, dark-erotica, dominant-alpha-males, erotica, kinky, sex-slaves, tpe

**book provided by the Author through BDSM group TPE BAR Read2Review**

description

This is amazing story about trust and care and was not what I expected. It was much more. It is not a typical love story or a romance and not even a typical dark erotica with BDSM elements. It’s a story about a lovely young girl Brianna, forced to slavery. She is saved by Stephan, who is a rich Dominant with the great sense for rightness. When he buys her he doesn’t expect what he gets with Brianna. She is completely broken yo...more **book provided by the Author through BDSM group TPE BAR Read2Review**

description

This is amazing story about trust and care and was not what I expected. It was much more. It is not a typical love story or a romance and not even a typical dark erotica with BDSM elements. It’s a story about a lovely young girl Brianna, forced to slavery. She is saved by Stephan, who is a rich Dominant with the great sense for rightness. When he buys her he doesn’t expect what he gets with Brianna. She is completely broken young girl. She was abused and punished repeatedly and he wants to help her, utter her fears but most of all he wants to make her trust him. She is struggling to overcome her past and learning to live again but mostly not to be afraid anymore.

I loved the interaction between his POV and her POV. It was well written and connected. The difference between them and how they see the same situation is amusing. Stephan’s POV is a lot about explaining D/s relationship without actual sex. I understand that she was healing but I missed the sex.

Both main characters are well developed but there were moments when I found Stephan a bit too perfect without single floss and so rational that it seemed unreal. Anyway, he doesn't have emotional baggage like her. He has to be strong in order to help her and not scare her again. Through the first half of the book I kept waiting for something to happen but their relationship was developing slowly. I liked how he was always patient with her even through her repeated panic attacks. He is taking care of her completely and selflessly. He is tearing down her defenses and she seems like a lost and scared animal, fragile but yet so strong. First I had a feeling that her POV was a bit distant on purpose but as the story progressed she starts to trust him and her side becomes more emotional.

This book is more about learning D/s relationship and trust and it's actually sweet despite all the dark background. In the end I found myself with so many questions and just wanting to know more about their further relationship.

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Mar 08, 2012 Merve Özcan rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, bdsm, non-fantastic, contemporary

A bit too long, too many panic attacks and so painful past.I loved this book, and cover...

Brianna is a girl abused by her Dom. She is a slave.When this situation comes Stephan's notice he buys her, he wants to help her it is in his blood.

It is not an easy job, she is scared, just a shell. She can not decide even most minimal things.

After Stephen's diligent work everything looks good, hopefully.

While i was reading book, time to time i was bored, not because story but detailed situation telli...more

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May 11, 2012 Shelley rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is one that I have wanted to read for a long time and I am so glad that I did.

Firstly, If you are reading this with the expectation of lots of steamy kinky scenes, then walk away right now.
I know...Dang!...right? No but seriously, this is something else.
It's a story that deals with healing a broken and tortured sole. Brianna, 18 years old, and a sex slave. That is all she is now, lost and serving in her owners world of sadistic submission. Slave to a brutish, monstrous and sadistic Master,...more

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Aug 17, 2012 Lee Anne - Give me a Good Romance rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review-not-lendable, bdsm

You can follow this review and others at http://www.mysecretromancebookreviews...

OMG! Poor Brianna. The entire time I was reading this book, I kept thinking the same things, OMG! OMG! How did she survive this? Then I went to “Thank God for Stephan!”

As I read more and more of the story I was horrified by all the things this young girl had suffered. At eighteen years old, she should be innocent, naïve and about to embark on the greatest adventure of all….life. Instead she’s recovering from just su...more You can follow this review and others at http://www.mysecretromancebookreviews...

OMG! Poor Brianna. The entire time I was reading this book, I kept thinking the same things, OMG! OMG! How did she survive this? Then I went to “Thank God for Stephan!”

As I read more and more of the story I was horrified by all the things this young girl had suffered. At eighteen years old, she should be innocent, naïve and about to embark on the greatest adventure of all….life. Instead she’s recovering from just surviving being the unwilling slave to one sick puppy. I have other choice names for that sadistic SOB but I’m not sure they’re appropriate for a book review!

As each new horror that Brianna had suffered came to light I felt more and and more horrified for her. Then in the next instant I would feel profound pride at her bravery and strength to survive whatever came her way with Stephan. I’m not sure I would have been able to survive what she did.

I think this is the first BDSM book I’ve read where there was absolutely no sex between the Dom and sub. I really like that about this book. It goes to show the protective and caring part of a D/s relationship and that not everything is about sex. I like that Stephan admits that he wants Brianna but that she must ask for it and come to him willingly when SHE’s ready. She hasn’t learned that she actually has the power in this relationship. She is so broken and damaged by what has happened to her that it’s heartbreaking. She should be taking life by the horns and taking charge of her life. Instead, she’s being pieced back together by an amazing man.

When I reached the end of the book, I couldn’t believe it! While it was an appropriate place to end the book, I wasn’t ready! I wanted more! I know there is a second book, Need (Finding Anna #2), that is coming out shortly, but I wanted those answers NOW, not later. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I’m not a patient woman!

There are several questions that I still need answered. Why did Tami (Stephan’s last sub) tell Stephan’s uncle about his lifestyle? Why did her dad do what he did? Why does Brad call her Anna instead of Brianna? How did Brianna’s dad fall into Ian’s circle of influence?

I’ll definitely read Need. I have to know what happens to Brianna and Stephan. I have know to about Stephan’s sub Tami and why she told. I have to know more!

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.(less)

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Mar 20, 2012 Alexis ~*Too many books, not enough time*~ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: abuse-abused_abuser, heartbreaking, his_pov, mar-apr2012, mystery_what_happened, rescued, saved

Spoiler Free Review
4.5 STARS
Genre: Adult Romance
"Why is it so inconceivable to you that you've fallen in love?"-Logan in Slave

Altho this book was nothing like i thought it would be i did enjoy it. The book is told from both the hero and the heroines POV.

In Slave Stephen is a Dom he is told about a girl named Brianna by a friend with the same interest as a Dom. The friend tells him that he met Brianna at a party and that she is not happy with her current master. Once Stephen buys Brianna he sl...more

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Nov 13, 2011 Krishna rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review is originally posted in Journey with Books

Slave is the first installment in Finding Ana series and this is also the first book I've read from Ms. Sherri Hayes. I can say that I'm definitely happy to read an emotional and well written fiction.

Before I accepted this book, I've read the other reviews on Goodreads first. I read a lot and I became intrigued and fascinated by this book because of the reviews.

This is not your typical BDSM themed romance because it's a lot deeper than that...more This review is originally posted in Journey with Books

Slave is the first installment in Finding Ana series and this is also the first book I've read from Ms. Sherri Hayes. I can say that I'm definitely happy to read an emotional and well written fiction.

Before I accepted this book, I've read the other reviews on Goodreads first. I read a lot and I became intrigued and fascinated by this book because of the reviews.

This is not your typical BDSM themed romance because it's a lot deeper than that and frankly, in this book, there is no racy sex scenes. Ms. Sherri Hayes also covered, human trafficking, she wrote a very vivid example of human trafficking. She showed through this book that there are women out there who are abused and kept against their wills.

The build up of the romance between Brianna and Stephan is a little slow but it was written in an understandable and acceptable way because you cannot just magically heal a very broken woman and just pair her up. Honestly, I liked it that way because the author didn't force a romance into happening, she let it fall naturally. It is more realistic that way.

I loved how Ms. Sherri Hayes wrote the character of Brianna. I felt for her. It's very seldom when you read a book that could affect you and I could tell you with all honestly that this book did. The feelings of Brianna are very realistic and I really really liked getting into her head and into her heart. I felt her fear and her desperation to be saved. I also felt her confusion in how Stephan treated her.

And Stephan is the type of man you'd want for yourself. He never gave up on Brianna no matter how difficult their situation is. He loved her the best way he could even though he's hurting too. He made her feel safe with him. His patience on her and his perseverance to make her feel comfortable and safe with him made me love him even more.

This book is definitely a good read for me. Ms Sherri Hayes is a writer who has the talent in making her readers feel. She has the right instinct in affecting her readers. I feel that Slave is just an introduction of a great story and I am so excited to read the next book in this series!

This review is originally posted in Journey with Books
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Aug 07, 2011 Beth rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011-books

Very good. Every time I read a book where the topic of BDSM is involved, the Dominant (which is usually male) is usually very attentive, responsible, and respectful of his submissive- especially if the two are in a relationship outside of the playroom. This is the first story I've read that showed a more sadistic side to the BDSM lifestyle. While I know that in "real life" a situation like Brianna's slavery under Ian does happen, I certainly hope there are more Dom's like Stephan and Logan; I al...more Very good. Every time I read a book where the topic of BDSM is involved, the Dominant (which is usually male) is usually very attentive, responsible, and respectful of his submissive- especially if the two are in a relationship outside of the playroom. This is the first story I've read that showed a more sadistic side to the BDSM lifestyle. While I know that in "real life" a situation like Brianna's slavery under Ian does happen, I certainly hope there are more Dom's like Stephan and Logan; I also would hope that in the BDSM community, participants, like Daren, would realize that something was wrong and try to help. Having said that, also in "real life" I would hope that the authorities would be involved so that the abusive pattern/slave trading wouldn't continue.

While Stephan's intentions when he purchases Brianna are to help her; the fact remains that she thinks she's a slave still and one that was forced into slavery- into this lifestyle. Would she even choose to be a submissive and have a BDSM relationship with a Dom had she not been forced into it? Which is what Stephan is hoping for; but the story ended at this point. Personally, I do think Brianna would choose to be a submissive now, because her brain has been rewired to submit and I don't see her totally being happy unless she had a Master to please or a Master to take care of her. I'm happy that Stephan is willing to give her that choice, and possibly losing her if she chooses to go.

In the next book, as much as I want Stephan and Brianna to remain together and have their HEA, I honestly think Brinna needs to be on her own and face her demons without having Stephan being there 24/7. Will she ever heal if she becomes dependent on him for everything? Would her feelings for Stephan seem real if she didn't get a chance to explore life without him? I also am disappointed that Lily didn't tell Brianna that she was a submissive and explain that to her... I am hoping that Lily takes her more "under her wing" and explains how Stephan, as a Master, is totally different than what she experienced with Ian (if that is the lifestyle she chooses). I also am eager to see exactly how Brianna was "sold" to Ian... her father as some answering to do to Stephan, I think. ;) (less)

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Jul 29, 2011 Rose May rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: a, a-plus, must-read-other-books-in-series

Note: This review, and all my reviews, comes from my blog - Romantic Rose's Bookshelf (http://romantic-rosesblog.blogspot.com)

Book 1 in the Finding Anna series

This book is, by far, my favorite BDSM story ever. Every page was emotional, filled with caring and compassion, uncertainty and thoughtfulness, fear and love. It was incredibly powerful, extraordinarily moving, touching and deep. So many times you go into a book expecting one thing and getting another – getting something more than you ever...more Note: This review, and all my reviews, comes from my blog - Romantic Rose's Bookshelf (http://romantic-rosesblog.blogspot.com)

Book 1 in the Finding Anna series

This book is, by far, my favorite BDSM story ever. Every page was emotional, filled with caring and compassion, uncertainty and thoughtfulness, fear and love. It was incredibly powerful, extraordinarily moving, touching and deep. So many times you go into a book expecting one thing and getting another – getting something more than you ever counted on or expected. I was looking for a good read when I pressed the ‘buy’ button on my Kindle. What I got transcended the realm of good books and transported me to the world of soul-searching, thought-provoking reading.

A quick recap of the plot before I once again decide to rave about the beauty of this book. Stephan is CEO of a non-for-profit, a caring friend, and a Dom – without a sub. Daren, a friend from college, asks to meet him for lunch one day to discuss ‘something serious’. A fellow Dom, Daren asks Stephan to help a girl in trouble - by buying her. The girl, Brianna, is a slave but Daren doesn’t believe she serves Ian (her current Master) willingly. Stephan is conflicted, but his desire to help a girl in trouble wins out and he goes and buys her immediately (*shudders* what a scary scene). Stephan has major issues buying a person, but knows there’s no other way to get her out of Ian’s clutches. He hopes, when he takes her away from Ian, things will be easier. However nothing is easy with Brianna. She hardly speaks and is emotionally damaged beyond belief. The question is – can this Dom help her regain any sense of self, and heal her tortured, battered mentality? He can, and will, try.

What I loved so much about this book was how it showed the true role of a Dom. Society focuses on the brutality of BDSM relationships, and the violence. They use that to label the subs as abused, insecure individuals with Stockholm syndrome or the like, and the Doms as cold-hearted, pleasure-seeking, power-hungry abusers. Anyone who reads this book and truly takes its messages to heart can clearly see how wrong that assessment is. Everything Stephan does, he does thinking of Brianna and how it will affect her - how he can help her. This book so clearly revealed the love, the caring, the tenderness involved in a healthy BDSM relationship. Stephan abandoned his own needs, wants, and desires throughout the entirety of the book, acting solely on what Brianna needed to heal. It’s very clear he doesn’t abuse her, and as her Dom is looking for her to heal, not for his own pleasure. That is what it means to be a Dom, and Hayes revealed that beautifully through Stephan’s patient consideration and thoughtfulness.

This book is written in first person, alternating between Brianna and Stephan’s POVs. Though I am not a fan of first person, it really worked for me in this book. I liked being privy to the thoughts of both so I could get a full, complete picture of the emotions and motivations of each character. It also gave further evidence to Stephan’s caring and to Brianna’s need for his kindness. Hayes writes a captivating, compelling tale as I watched both Stephan and Brianna struggle. A testament to Stephan’s love of Brianna is that he never gave up on her or lost his temper, even though I imagine it would’ve been very difficult not to. He ignored his own frustration in favor of helping heal her brokenness, and undergoes pain of his own for her as he watches her fear and mistrust. Used to trained subs that fully trust him, I’m sure dealing with Brianna was very hard on him and it made my heart ache that he worked so hard to make her happy. Brianna’s point of view was equally captivating, as we watched her go through nightmares, phobias, embarrassment, terror, confusion, apathy, hopelessness and hope. She was so sweet, so fragile and delicate, and so perfectly sad. It was heart-wrenching to read about her, all she went through, and all she keeps going through – the nightmares she has to relive. It made it all the more splendid to see how infinitely careful Stephan was with her.

Hayes fully introduces the reader to the softer, kinder, sweeter side ofa BDSM relationship that society often disregards or refuses to see. I shall conclude my review by saying that I have never waited in greater anticipation for the next book of a series to come out (except perhaps Harry Potter?) and I pray Hayes will write quickly.

“Sexy”ness rating: Low (I know, it’s a BDSM but it’s low. They never went beyond kissing)

Overall Rating: A to A+

Bottom Line: This book was eye-opening, showing the beauty and love of a BDSM relationship and the gentle, thoughtful nature of a true Dom as he takes care of his sub.

Genre: BDSM ROMANCE(less)

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Oct 24, 2011 Paula rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: e-books, erotica-d-s, 2011, favourites

Wow, this was so not what I was expecting for some reason I was waiting to be disappointed, I nearly did not buy it £7.00 for an ebook generally puts me off. I enjoy erotica and like BDSM elements in it, but my favorite is the psychological control element. While this book had no real physical BDSM, it hit all the right notes for the psychological aspects. I liked the fact that while scared Anna did not immediately fall into to the "anything" you want Master, falling over herself in complete eag...more

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Slave (Finding Anna #1)

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