Bind

The Donovan Dynasty #1

by Sierra Cartwright

Only one man can help her. Is she willing to pay his price?

Faced with the potentially overwhelming loss of her family’s fortune, Lara Bertrand turns to the one man who can help her, the gorgeous and powerful Connor Donovan.

She knows he’s dangerous to her on every level. Only desperation would drive her to make such a risky proposition. After all, she knows all about his ruthless nature and relentless determination to succeed.

When the classy, elegant Lara walks into his office with an outrageous proposal, Connor is stunned and more than a little intrigued. Ever since he first met her, he’s been attracted to the cool beauty, but she’s more than kept her distance.

Connor is absolutely willing to help her out. For a price. He not only wants her hand in marriage, but also her total submissive surrender…..

Reader This book contains scenes of anal play.

Genres: BDSM, Romance, Erotica, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Erotic Romance, Adult

306 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 2, 2015

About the author

Sierra is a USA Today, International Best-Selling author who wrote her first book at age nine and hasn't stopped since.
Sierra invites you to share the complex journey of love and desire, of surrender and commitment.
Her own journey has taught her that trusting takes guts and courage, and her work is a celebration for everyone who is willing to take that risk.

Reviews

[Astrid - The Bookish Sweet Tooth]

3.75 stars

Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books

I'm quite picky with BDSM books as some authors of the genre usually push my boundaries too much when there isn't a healthy balance between the sex and enough story, humor and romance. And this is what we have here.


Lara Bertrand is a business woman, heiress to her father's empire. Unfortunately said empire is in dire straights: her father's way of leading a company is archaic, he struggles adapting to modern times. Lara's solution? A proposal of marriage to her best friend's brother, who has a vested interest in parts of her company.


Connor is fascinated by Lara, this sensual beautiful woman. He wants to dominate her, claim her. His condition is her absolute submission. Lara likes kink but real BDSM? Her attraction to this powerful, controlled and complicated man is fierce. He is a cunning negotiator so she gives in...but can she separate her mind from her heart and go through with this business agreement?


This was a hot little story with low angst and a lot of smexy times. Connor is a dirty talker and most of the times it is really girly parts tingle-inducing. Except...labia? Seriously? This man doesn't shy away from words like cunt, pussy but he can't say pussy lips? That struck me a bit as out of character. He is controlled, loves to be in charge and has the charm and politeness of the south. Connor's respect for Lara is apparent in everything he does but he thinks love is messy and the wall he has built around his heart is tangible up until the 80% mark. Only then his personality starts to shine and sparkle.


Lara is a courageous heroine with a backbone. While reading this story I thought that I would be a bad sub. The things she gives in to without me thinking she is a doormat... Connor doesn't want to subdue her spirit and personality, which I'm thankful for because it enables me to keep my respect for both the heroine and hero.


The story had a nice flow and kept me interested and entertained throughout Lara's and Connor's journey. I'll definitely read more by this author.

ARC via Netgally in exchange for an honest review - thank you!

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loyalty and love for the family can make people do things they wouldn't normally do.

Lara Bertrand is for all intents and purposes Daddy's little girl. She loves her father and remembers fondly as he takes her to work with him when she was little. Now, all grown up, she works for her father in their family business. The rose-coloured glasses are off as her father persists and clings to the old ways. Unfortunately, the business world is changing in rules and speed. With no other choice, she decides to put a plan into place to save her father's business, even if it means he will hate her for it.

This story moved me because it is all about love and sacrifice. What is a person willing to sacrifice for love and will the person who is receiving the sacrifice understand it? This is a sad story and near the end, my heart is breaking for Lara and her father. Ms. Cartwright does an excellent job of creating realistic characters - flaws and all. Whilst the story focuses on Lara and Connor's BDSM foreplay, the punch of the story is Lara's father's sacrifice. When he reveals his side of the story, Lara sees just how much he gave up for his company and it forces her to make a hard decision. This twist hurts so good. When I'm pulled into a story with my heart breaking, I love it.

The plot of this story is simple. It's the characters' relationships which is complex. Lara and Connor seem to be a good match from a business perspective. His spankings warm up more than just Lara's bottom. Lara may be initially taken back by Connor's dominance but soon, she's bespelled and wants more. His desire to make the marriage a real one with the exception of love is what ends up being a point of contention, ironically for Lara who wanted the marriage to just be a business deal. This conflict is well done and shows how the best intentions may still pave the road to hell. And for Lara, it would be a personal hell she would not survive.

The BDSM in this story is more on the D/s and it's good. It's what a reader would expect from the talented Ms. Cartwright. Connor exudes the dominance one would desire from a dominant. He's not perfect, but he is thoughtful and commanding. Even the punishment scenes are light and easy to handle. Lara shows how a strong woman can find pleasure in the joys of submission. Her journey with Connor demonstrates the ups and downs of a new to BDSM relationship. This erotic novel is recommended for maledom lovers who enjoy D/s.

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was ridiculously sexy and a whole lot of fun! Which leads me to ask.... where has Sierra Cartwright been all my life?!?!?!

[mary ₍^. .^₎⟆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sir, I’m all yours..

Maybe it wasn’t something new to me but I really enjoyed the story of Lara and Connor 🖤

[The BookChick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished Bind today and have to say that I love Sierra Cartwright's writing style. Bind was sexy (very) and sweet (awww inspiringly so). I adored the connection between Connor and Lara and they paired together perfectly. I cannot wait to see what else she has in store for the other sibs in the Donovan Dynasty.

[Serialbookstarter:Marla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Had potential but was too utilitarian, clinical
And informational as far as the BDSM part.
I want a book that draws me into another world NOT a teaching manifesto.

[Shayna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sexy and masterful start to a fantastic new series! This has to be Ms. Cartwright's best work yet! Stimulating, sensual, and just a whole lot of fun, BIND is sure to keep you on your toes! Connor Donovan will take over your dreams and walk away with your heart! I fell in love with him instantly! How can you not fall in love with Sierra's heroes? Gorgeous, powerful, possessive, all the workings that are sure to make you blush, shiver, and swoon! Connor Donovan's name alone just screams sex to me. Am I right ladies? Instantly, you are transported in Connor's vortex of dominance and authority. Be warned! He is sure to embed himself into your fantasies for nights to come.

Lara Bertrand is a beautiful, sophisticated, and smart woman, who is in need of a little assistance. She turns to the mysterious and heavily gorgeous Connor Donovan. He, of course accepts, with some conditions, because he LOVES a challenge, and Lara is definitely a challenge to him. He can be selfish in this request from her, because he craves something from her in return. Her surrender. Lara has always yearned for something different in the bedroom. She is yet to meet a man who can really give her what she needs. Connor wants to be that man who can guide her, protect her, and see to her every need. She is stubborn, but that all lies in the challenge of her complete submission.

What started off as a complicated business transaction turned out to be so much more. She was never supposed to fall so easily. They brought out new things in each other. They brought out the light in the darkness, chased away each other's demons, loved one another for who they were inside and out. They found themselves. They found peace. They were bound.

Mystery, seduction, humor, passion - BIND by Sierra Cartwright had everything you could ever want in a Contemporary BDSM Romance. She weaves a tail of compassion, truth, and discover, that constantly leaves me in a state of awe. I can't help but fall deeply in love with her characters. I'm always intrigued by the plot, and she never disappoints in her sex and BDSM scenes. Ms. Cartwright brings so much to this genre, that her talent is unmatched. Her stories are so much more than just the sex. It's the beauty of the well-written story and the journey that the characters embark upon that continues to leave me breathless. I can't wait to see what more comes out of this series!
It's intense!

"Your ass was made for a beating, Lara,"

It's funny!

"What are your safe words?"

"Crap and oh fuck?"

It's powerful!

"I wish you could see yourself as I see you. I adore the sight of you, tied in your submission."

It's romantic!

"I could kiss you all night, and it wouldn't be enough."

Lara and Connor are definitely a couple to root for!



*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*

[**Manjula ♥ Books** · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
Some of this book was emotionally superb, the rest was predictable and boring...
The plot could have been better. Also, it felt like I could input any two people into Connor's and Lara's places. They were so ...... Un-unique? The bdsm scenes were the best part of the book; they were really well written and HOT! Think Inferno.
Verdict: Worth a read.

[Claudine Van · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars!!!

[Angie H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story.

[Imaghosta · Rating 2 out of 5]

1,75/5⭐️

Ta książka ma na okładce zdanie, że jest pikantniejsza od „Pięćdziesięciu twarzy Greya”… Mogli dodać, że jest gorsza pod każdym względem i skopiowana. Na początku myślałam, że to historia podobna do książek Sary Cate, ale nie warto ich nawet ze sobą zestawiać.
Wiecie co? Wrzucę po prostu moje notatki, bo stwierdziłam, że zapiszę te podobieństwa. Oto one:

- Nie chciałabym porównywać tego do Sary Cate ale nie potrafię mimo iż wiem że ta wyszła w 2016 czyli wcześniej niż Sary
- Rozbawiła mnie zamiana stereotypowych ról - kobieta szofer a facet asystentem/sekretarzem
- To totalnie 50 twarzy Greya - w ciul podobieństw (oprowadzanie po mieszkaniu, pokaż co może mieć, prezentacja kary za nieposłuszeństwo wcześniej w biurze)
- SREBRZYSTY KRAWAT XDDD GREY IS THAT YOU?
- Jej matka rozwiedziona z jej ojcem (inne powody niż w Greyu)
- No i umowa oczywiście tylko tu z intercyzą
- Sytuacja z poranka po ich nocy gdzie on ćwiczy w siłowni a ona się mu przygląda o czym on początkowo nie wie - witamy Christian Grey
- Sklep z narzędziami (tutaj tylko wpadli po taśmę izolacyjną a nie że ona tam pracowała jak Ana w 50 twarzach Greya)

[MsRomanticReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Complimentary ARC provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review.

BIND ruined me for future book boyfriends/husbands, and it was probably the best book I’ve read by Sierra Cartwright to date! I loved Connor and Lana individually and as a couple for their maturity despite being under thirty. The beginning was reminiscent of Fifty Shades, but where Fifty seemed reliant on “shock and awe”, BIND was more pleasing in all aspects. The smattering of humor throughout did a great job of diffusing the intensity of the developing relationship.

Lana Bertrand, CFO of Bertrand Holdings Inc., had learned all about the family business from her father. She was a daddy’s girl through and through, until she completed graduate school and began to challenge his outdated business decisions and practices. The fact that she had contemplated giving up two years of her life to save the company spoke a lot about her dedication, determination, loyalty. She was a workaholic with no time for relationships, or perhaps she’d just been repeatedly disappointed by past lovers and the way they handled her kinkier desires. She was confident, bold, and generally unafraid to express herself sexually. Dealing with developing romantic feelings did not come easy to her at all.

Connor Donovan (27) had been appointed president of his family’s company, Donovan Worldwide, at the age of 23, after his father had died tragically in a car accident. His parent’s marriage wasn’t perfect, but what he knew was enough to turn him off of pursuing any serious relationships. I loved his relationship with his siblings both in and out of the business. When he was first introduced, from Lara’s perspective, he seemed aloof, a bit cold, and he definitely commanded the space in which he moved. Since the story was told from alternating POVs, it turned out he was anything but cold and reserved. I just loved the way he talked—everything he said was measured, considered, charming and intelligent. He didn’t talk just to hear himself speak. For someone his age and in his position, he was very down to earth.

Probably the most intriguing aspect of this story was Lara’s proposal and Connor’s conditions and whether or not a reader would see him as taking unfair advantage of her predicament. Her position coupled with his promises of giving her a taste of what she'd only fantasized about was definitely a catalyst for the fast pace of their sexual relationship. Also, the way he treated her as an equal outside of the bedroom and his unwavering support in business showed her that being able to rely on him was a core element of his personality and not just a selfish means to get laid. Personally, I enjoyed the set-up and the execution. It was anything but trite because the characters were so compelling. The BDSM parts were kept to introduction to the lifestyle and spanking, but the seduction and the sex were incredibly hot.

The side characters enhanced and complimented the couple, and I adored Lara’s mother and her “ESP” abilities, as Lara liked to call it. And for fans of the BONDS series, Julien was his usual awesome self and returned to meddle...I mean, play fairy godfather.

[Lauren Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, hooked from the start!

[Romancing the Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed by Angela
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book

Wow. Just wow. I wasn’t sure what I was getting into when I got this book. It started off a little slow for my tastes but once I got about 50 pages in the book started to take off. The attraction between the two lead characters, Connor and Lara is unbelievable. They both want the same thing but getting there is half of the problem. Lara knows she has real feelings for Connor but isn’t sure that he feels for her the same way she feels about him, and she is afraid that he is agreeing to this marriage for one reason and one reason alone, money…

Throughout their “relationship” Connor brings out a side of Lara that she didn’t know she had. A submissive side. The need to be told what to do and be taken care of on multiple levels. But this is a side of herself that she is not sure she wants to embrace. It’s not normal and she shouldn’t want it but there is a part of her that just can’t get enough of Connor and his dominance.

Sierra Cartwright transports you right into their world. The world of business and pleasure and matters of the heart. The plot is unusual but intriguing none the less. I was kept on my toes and could not wait to find out what happens next. It seemed like the end of each pages would leave me so desperate to know more. It was a cliffhanger at the end of every page and I couldn’t get through it fast enough. This is the first book that I have read by Sierra Cartwright and she did what I believe every author hopes to do. She has me hooked with her amazingly detailed writing style. She has left me wanting more and I can’t wait to find another of her books soon. I give this a 5 rose rating.

Favorite Quote: “Unless you want to be naked when the pizza delivery person arrives I suggest you get on with it.”

[SandyL · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this book to be so......polite. Lara Bertrand is CFO of the family business and is worried her dad's antiquated ways are going to run their company into the ground. When she runs into Connor Donovan, brother of her BFF, leaving her dad's office and she discovers her dad turned down an offer Connor made to buy their telecom division, she's furious. In trying to find a way to counter her dad, she makes an offer to Connor - marry her for 2 years and she'll get him the telecom division and a seat on their board. That will help each of them out. Surprisingly, Connor accepts the offer with his own conditions - they will live together as husband and wife for 3 years and Lara will be his submissive during that time. The dialogue was polite, their interactions were polite, even their dirty talk was polite. I just couldn't get into this book, which was disappointing because Sierra Cartwright is one of my favorite authors.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say? I loved this book. I loved all the aspects of this book. I won’t give you an entire run down of the book, you can read the synopsis for that, but I will recommend it. You know when you read a great book, but certain things make you inwardly (or outwardly) cringe? Well, there was none of that. The hero and heroine were both mature, smart, honest people. And they communicated so beautifully, except for maybe about one thing, but they come around, and that really struck me.
It was a complete love story, and as always from Sierra, an intelligent novel.

[Elle ✟ Søren's ♡ (i'm too old for this shite) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't feel love between Connor and Lana.
Their relationship is too polite. Not sizzling enough.
For the BDSM part is quite fine. It's more educational and sexy.
This book is quite romantic for my taste.
I expect for something hotter. Not kinky enough :(
Sorry, it's quite disappointing and i hope the next books is better.

[Paganalexandria]

2/8/18 Instafreebie
https://www.instafreebie.com/free/Sbe...

[Tanja · Rating 5 out of 5]

this will be one of the hardest book reviews that I ever done cause I ended up re-reading the book when I wanted to go through the notes and quotes from it.
yeah its that good !!!

the book is the best cake recipe EVER put out there - you have the almost standard love story - girl likes boy, boy likes girl, both too stubborn to be honest about true feeling, enter drama and confusion. Then we add some business talk to it to make it more edgy - cause no one does business like the Donovans *hint, hint* and where is business there is negotiations and good coffee *read on to find out ...* and the sugar at the end is BDSM and its magic in the couple dynamic and finding your true self. Because, no two people are the same and so each BDSM dynamic and relationship isn't the same.

Lara is sharp, real, honest, goes balls to the walls, to be honest - at first seems a bit unconscious of her own interest but at the end she was ready to make the ultimate sacrifice to help the family company cause at the end you can't just stand by and watch it turn to ruins.

~
"...he’d been tormented by thoughts of her dark brown eyes, long hair that he wanted to pull and her beautiful sun-kissed skin that reflected her Cajun heritage. Her delectable fragrance— lemony and spicy— evoked magnolias and made him think of sultry, endless summer nights..."
~
"...Lara walked in, wearing sky-high stilettos and a pencil skirt with a matching blazer. The suit was red. Libido red. She’d likely selected her outfit carefully, believing she had chosen a power color..."

Connor is a business like no other and he has it all and then SOME: he's sharp, thinks on his feat, goes for the kill when he see it but also looks at all aspects looooong before,he's honest, upfront and doesn't step back from what matters.And not to forget his stubbornness that is on a whooooole other level.

~
"...She’d found that his icy demeanor was the perfect complement to his cool, intimidating gray eyes. In spite of herself, she’d continued to watch him..."
~
"...Forbidding. If you added handsome, enigmatic and powerful, the same description could apply to Connor..."
~

The sparks between them are OFF that charts form the first moment they met, even though I need to give a shout out, cause she didn't go all fan-girl on his ass when she met him (I'm not ashamed to admit, that I would totally play a fan-girl groupie hahahah *swoooooon*).
This book made a believer out of me in the power of business negotiations - it serves the same as foreplay and believe me, its HANDS DOWN this book has the hottest and the most sizzling banter I have ever read. and I'm glad that I can report that high quality coffee plays an important role her *bows down to Sierra - now we can be friends*

~
“Is the coffee strong?”
“Very,” Thompson replied. “If that’s the way you like it, you’ll be pleased.” He paused. “Cream or sugar?”
“Black is fine,” she replied.
“Damn,” Connor said, as Thompson closed the door behind him.
“Damn?”
“I was hoping you’d ask for sugar at least,” he confessed..."

~
"...Any earlier doubt was erased. This woman had chosen her outfit intentionally. She’d known the effect that skirt would have on any male with a pulse. And hell, if he didn’t have one, it would restart it.
“You’re lovely.” And smart. He made a mental note never to underestimate her as an adversary, as a lover..."
~

Of course this wouldn't be a Sierra book if the famous and notorious Julien Bonds wasn't present - even though I protested that certain scenes were just a lot of hostility angled towards him, totally undeserved and that we simply do NOT do !!!! watch it Sierra !!!!

~
"...She hesitated, and he waited. Finally, she tipped back her head. “When I masturbate, I think about a man’s belt.”
“I think we could arrange that.”
“I might hate it. It could ruin the fantasy.”
“It could,” he agreed. “And it could make it even better. Anything else?”
“You’re asking a lot of questions, Mr. Donovan..."
~

The sexual chemistry between those two is ... OMG, I don't have the words to put it in a just one sentence *hint the length of the review*.

~
“Lara, I’m not sure what kind of sex you’ve been having, but I promise you, you won’t want to just get it over with.”
“That sounds a little overconfident.”
He smiled. “I don’t think so. I will be so focused on you that you’ll want it to go on and on.”

~
"...She was lace, innocence, seduction. He knew this image of her would be seared into his mind..."
~

“May I?” she asked. “Touch you?”
As he leaned toward her, she lifted herself onto her toes and met him. “Wrap your arms around me, Lara.”
She parted her lips in anticipation and he claimed them. The force of their kiss took him aback. He’d kissed dozens of women, but he’d never felt a searing connection..."
~

the sensual exploration if off the charts .. never before have I read the book and had a feeling that it was happening to me - while reading it. Lara gets scared out of her mind but still keeps her cool to answer with balls (UPS!!!). Once again we are reminded of the honesty and the terrifying truth of what a D/s relationship is. Sierra has managed the impossible - it can be harsh and romantic at the same time as it is captivating. in this case you can almost call it courting hahah even the romancing but instead of just wine and flowers you get a spanking bench and a single tail.

~
“As I mentioned, BDSM isn’t something I’m merely into. Kinky sex like you’re suggesting is fine. Awesome, in fact. I definitely enjoy it. I’d love to see your body spread wide, held open for me. But I see that as an extension of a relationship rather than replacing it.”
“I’m a bit confused. I thought it was all about the tying up and beating.”
“To some people, it is. And that’s fine. To me, it’s much, much more..."
~

And let me tell you - hands down the hottest spanking scene ever written. Even the legal talk about BDSM leaves you all tingly inside.
And the thing that I liked the most in the book, among all the other favorites is details on body language ... I'll be an expert after this book WAUUUU.

~
She locked her knees for a moment as she fought for rational thought.
“Please. Please, may I have an orgasm? Sir?”
“Have you earned it yet?” He spanked her right cheek again. The orgasm started to burn in her.
“More. Please.”
“Beg,” he told her.
“Please, will you spank me? Please will you give me an orgasm, Sir?” “Absolutely perfect responses, little Lara,”


The book just hooks you from the first page and doesn't let you go ... it seems like the more time two of them spend together, it progresses to a more natural relationship, that, at certain
parts, you stare in disbelief that they are just getting started with it. They are learning that there are two sides to every story and there are two sides to every deal .. how do you not go
wrong by one and remain on course with the other (still pondering that one)

I whole-hardheartedly recommenced this book to all the romantics out there that are just dying for the touch of the single tail and the harsh slap of the spanking added to the mix. Sierra's got it all. Come and get it !!!

[✨ Lauren ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Getting married for a business deal with a side of kink.

Honestly, really enjoyed. Thought they were cute together and enjoyed the ending. I wanted more!

Kinda give me 50 shades but better, consenting and less abusive

[Under the Covers Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

As an erotic romance reader and lover of all BDSM literature, you can take full liberty to gasp at the fact that I had never read Sierra Cartwright until Bind, the first installment in her Donovan series. This series takes place in the heart of Texas, where rival corporate dynasties are vying for pieces of the pie. Lara Bertrand is a smart and shrewd businesswoman with her livelihood on the line. Her family business has been losing revenue and her father, as much as she loves him, has trouble changing his ways. They need outside help fast. Connor Donovan runs a rival corporate empire after the loss of his father a few years ago. He’s powerful, beautiful, and willing to help Lara out when she approaches him with a proposal of sorts. Lara asks Connor to marry her as a business move, allowing both his capital and decision making power to infiltrate and save her company. Despite Lara’s attraction to Connor, she knows this will be a temporary arrangement. Connor, however, has other ideas. He won’t entertain this proposal without Lara’s complete surrender in the bedroom. He’s a Dominant through and through, and won’t stand for a marriage in name only. Lara has always known that her sexual tastes have been hard to satisfy. Agreeing to Connor’s demands is terrifying and exhilarating at the same time, but a chance she may have to take.

Bind is one of those books that you can sit down to and realize in 2 hours that the time has flown by and you’re almost at the conclusion. Ms. Cartwright’s writing flows easily, from the transitions to the dialog. It’s natural and moves at a nice pace. The construct of BDSM tendencies among rich businessman is not a new one, but this story was unique in that it involved two players who are equal in terms of their positions within the business world. Lara is a strong woman and she has the guts to approach Connor with a marriage proposal, not the other way around. The negotiations that ensue are on a level playing field without a hint of coercion. Make no mistake, Connor is seductive and aims to show Lara just how submissive she really is in the bedroom. They have great chemistry from the get-go. Their sex is dirty and playful, a little pain mixed with a lot of pleasure. This is a great book for those who like the sensual and seductive side of BDSM. It’s done very well here. There’s a fair amount of humor mixed into the dialog between the couple and their family members and I was smiling often during my reading. Connor’s brothers have interesting backgrounds and it’s clear that the next 2 installments will feature their stories. The love angle of between Connor and Lara moved a little too quickly for me, but we are just at the beginning of their relationship, so lots of time for that to develop as a side story in future books. All in all, this was an entertaining, sexy, light BDSM read for me: low on the angst and high on the feel good factor. I have a feeling book two might be more angsty, but time will tell!

*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Guest Reviewer Jennifer

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[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bind is book one in Sierra Cartwright's Donovan Dynasty series and it's a great start! Romance and BDSM are two things that Sierra does well and Bind is just the right combination of the two. Prepare to be captivated as you won't want to put this baby down!

Lara Bertrand is a successful businesswoman. CFO of her family's information technology company, she turns to the head of Donovan Worldwide, Connor Donovan, when her father's archaic ways threaten the company's existence. Her father isn't interested in bringing the company out of it's dinosaur ways believing it is fine as it is. Lara sees her father retiring in the future and knows the company needs to update or be swallowed by the competition. She goes to Connor because his company is interested in a part of her company, and believes he could help her cause by obtaining a board seat once married to her.

Connor is taken with Lara from the very start! He is intrigued with her proposal and decides it's a challenge worth investigating-albeit with some conditions. He is a dominant and his biggest condition is that Lara would have to agree to be his submissive in the bedroom. Lara struggles with the condition but after Connor gives her a taste or two of his form of play, Lara is hooked! She finds she craves the man and his play, more and more! What starts out as a purely business contract, ends up being so much more! Both realize they are in over their heads rather quick!

I instantly loved both Connor and Lara. Lara is a strong girl. She knows what she doesn't want, but struggles with being honest to herself about what she likes and what she wants. Connor is hands-down everything you would want in a hero-sexy, powerful, gorgeous, and takes Lara's submission to heart. He's guarded with his heart, but he is falling minute by minute with Lara and everything she gives.

And did I mention the steaminess??? Sierra combines the right amount of seduction with romance and a sprinkle of BDSM so that you are right there with her characters! I was taken with Connor and his level of compassion for Lara. He was able to read her so well and give her exactly what she needed-when she had no clue its what she secretly had been craving. As the story progresses, both characters bring out the best in each other. Yes the sex is spicy and yummy, but I loved how their romance blossomed when they weren't looking for one.

Both have a strong sense of loyalty to their family's and I liked how they were willing to make sacrifices so that their companies would thrive. I enjoyed both Lara and Connor struggling with their emotions. Both were falling quickly and there wasn't anything that either could do to stop it. The connection was strong. They just had to finally be true to themselves and admit what their feelings were.

I always love Sierra Cartwright's books and this hit every mark for me! I am always entertained and that's why she's a one-click author of mine! I look forward to diving into the next brother's journey!

4.5 stars/4 flames

I was gifted this book by the Jeep Diva for the express purpose of an honest review. The rating and review are solely my opinion and in no way was I compensated.

[Jeanéva Christie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wrapped up and bound in his love

Lara Bertrand is the CFO for her family’s company and lest you think it’s a position granted by nepotism perish the thought. Lara has earned her way up in the business world. She’s finance savvy and knows what she’s doing. She also knows exactly what she doesn’t want… CEO is NOT on her to do list. So, when she watches her father repeatedly throwing good sense out the window, she’s left with some drastic measures to reign in his mad dash to financial ruin… Measures that include a marriage of convenience proposal to the only person she figures can help her pull things out of the spiraling decline they are on. Color her shocked, though, when her proposal is met with a counter. Her marriage of convenience isn’t going to be all too convenient because Mr. Connor Donovan wants a submissive, a wife in his bed and fidelity… not for her initial proposal of a year, but for a full three years. To sweeten the pot he’s offered her a taste of what being with him entails.

Connor has had his eye on BHI for a while and the lovely Ms. Bertrand most recently. He wants their patents and their communication division but when he goes in above board, Petrell Bertrand turns him down flat without even looking at the offer. Now, he could sit around and pick up the pieces of the company as it crumbles or he could take Lara up on her proposal. He’d much rather have his collar and his ring on this enticing woman than take an unsure bet on what would be left of the company. But appearances are everything in the business world so there is no way he’s going to accept an in name only proposal. She’ll be living with him and gracing his bed. Her on her knees at his beck and call are the icing on the cake. But when he decides to give her a taste of just what a relationship with him would be like, he finds he has found his perfect match.

Too bad the two of them can’t see past their proposed end date on something that could be a lifelong journey together. These two are hot together and definitely a winning number. The BDSM scenes Ms. Cartwright has detailed will keep you on edge. It may be a rocky road to HEA but you will get there in the end. Gotta wonder what Connor’s brothers Nathan and Cade have in store for us in the other two books in the series. This one is well worth the read.
*****Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions*****

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

This could have been the same old story -- girl seeks man to help save her father's company. She approaches guy asks him to marry her and guy saves the day, right? Right. Except this was so much more.

Lara seeks a simple business arrangment with Connor but he has a few stipulations of his own. He wants Lara to explore her submissive side. When she admits that she's toyed with the idea of getting a little kinky in the bedroom, Connor knows he has to do whatever it takes to bring her out of her shell.

Connor slowly teaches her about what he expects from his submissive and when Lara learns what he likes easily, you can see a bond forming between them. Lara knows that love is off the table as far as Connor is concerned, but she is fast falling for him anyway.

I can't wait for the second book of this series.

Part of a Series: Yes, Donovan Dynasty

Heat Level: Hot and spicy

~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~

[Ruthie Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads

I am a big fan of Ms Cartwright's writing, so was delighted to see a new series from her. And this is a great start to it, that's for sure.

The premise is inspired, the outcome is perfect and the execution is both incredibly hot and cleverly plotted. We are introduced to two families' worth of characters, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of Connor and Lara in future episodes. I loved the interplay between them, the resolution of the contract, and the intensity which developed. I think the family dynamics were handled brilliatnly, and I missed a night's sleep because I could not stop reading.

If you like your Doms intense, and your submissives intelligent, then this will work for you. It is much more than that though, with a good business based issue to resolve and feelings to be considered. And even rescue dogs play a role too!

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first truly authentic BDSM novels I read (after the abysmal 50 Shades of Grey series which was so unrealistic as to be pathetic) were the Shadowlands and Doms of Dark Haven series by Cherise Sinclair. A couple of the Doms of Dark Haven series books were co-written by Sierra Cartwright. This was the first solo book written by Sierra Cartwright that I've read and to say I was blown away by this book would be an understatement! It was amazing! The story held my interest from beginning to end. The characters were realistic and engaging. The BDSM details of the storyline were entirely realistic and accurate, something that I have found is rare when it comes to BDSM-themed romance novels. All too often novels that purport to be "BDSM" romances have little to no relationship to true BDSM culture, are not realistic and have no basis in reality. In my opinion, Sierra Cartwright, Cherise Sinclair and Lexi Blake are the top three authors when it comes to BDSM novels as they relate to authenticity, realism and accuracy. Kudos to Sierra Cartwright on a well-written, captivating, well=researched and authentic BDSM-based novel. I would highly recommend this series of books!

[Rachael Orman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting book... I thought I totally knew where it was going to go only to be floored when the rug was yanked out from under me... and I loved every second of it.

Connor is so sexy and Lara is just perfect for him. Not to mention their scenes together are amazing, especially in the playroom.

The tension that is around the business and family on both sides was interesting. I think the only thing I would've liked to see is more interaction with Erin, Connor's sister and Lara's bestie.

The writing was superb. I loved how easy it was to fall into the book and forget everything else. I wanted to cheer and shout (and pout and stomp my foot) at different times throughout.

I can't wait for the second book in this series, or more from this author in general!

I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lara´s up against her own father when he won´t listen to reason about the management in their company. When her best friend gives her an idea about how to make him listen, she goes with it. Even if it is a hair brained one.
Connor´s used to getting his way in the corporate world, but this latest deal is about to go up in smoke. Until he gets help from an unsuspected source, and the way she´s proposing to do it is even more outrageus.
Can they both go for it, and get through it without breaking hearts?
Contemporary Romance, smutty fluff and dominance in a great combo.

[Ada Ja • · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nie wiem co sądzić o tej książce. Podoba mi się motyw biznesu, i ślubu z pobudek biznesowych. Jednak to jak potoczyła się cała akcja, zawiódł mnie. Miałam też wrażenie, że Lara jest kreowana na zupełnie inną osobę niż była w rzeczywistości, ponieważ miała być silna i niezależna, a praktycznie w pierwszym momencie, kiedy miała to pokazać, okazało się, że jest ciepłą kluchą. Postać Connora była nieźle wykreowana, choć był bohaterem, który trochę denerwował. Dlatego mam lekki problem z tą książką i nie wiem co do końca o niej sądzić.

[Beanimous · Rating 2 out of 5]

Snooze......snooze....zzzzzzzz! What! Where! The book is finished! Oh! Great 2 stars, now let me go back to sleep.

A total snooze-fest. I fell asleep during the sex scene, can you believe it....

Book is boring, boring hero, boring shallow heroine, boring dialogue, boring plot.

Sorry, not my cup of tea.