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Iunctiō Cōpula #1
Innocence to the Max
On his sixteenth birthday, Francisco “Cisco” Aguilar first sets eyes on Maximilian De Ferrari, owner of Wicked Grounds, an exclusive BDSM club. Cisco has been lost, unsure of what is missing in his life. Over a century old, Max leads a vampire clan, and Cisco is drawn to him in a way he can’t explain. The moment he sees Max he knows his quest isn’t about what he’s been missing, but who.
Five years’ wait seems more than Cisco can bear, but he perseveres and on his twenty-first birthday he walks into Wicked Ground. He’s unafraid to meet the vampire he’s sure is his destiny. Max has been waiting for him, too.
What Max has known all these years, and what Cisco soon discovers, is that more than fate is drawing them together. Iunctiō Cōpula is a powerful binding link capable of restoring cold, dead hearts. With Max and Cisco bound, Cisco will be Max’s greatest weakness. Unable to let Max go, Cisco is thrust into a dark world, where he’s nearly powerless, left to fight for his life and his future with Max. Worse, he’s at the mercy of those who will use him—and hurt him—just to get to the powerful vampire.
Five years’ wait seems more than Cisco can bear, but he perseveres and on his twenty-first birthday he walks into Wicked Ground. He’s unafraid to meet the vampire he’s sure is his destiny. Max has been waiting for him, too.
What Max has known all these years, and what Cisco soon discovers, is that more than fate is drawing them together. Iunctiō Cōpula is a powerful binding link capable of restoring cold, dead hearts. With Max and Cisco bound, Cisco will be Max’s greatest weakness. Unable to let Max go, Cisco is thrust into a dark world, where he’s nearly powerless, left to fight for his life and his future with Max. Worse, he’s at the mercy of those who will use him—and hurt him—just to get to the powerful vampire.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2015
7 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
S.J.D. Peterson
52 books1,016 followersIt's been an amazing journey since DSP first contracted Lorcan's Desire in January 2011. I've published 2 free reads with the M/M Romance group, my back list is growing, met some great people and have made some amazing friends.
I'm still in shock that I'm listed among the many talented authors at Dreamspinner Press! The little voice in the back of my head is screaming, "You are so out of your league."
Shhhhh I won't tell them if you don't :)
You can call me Jo, everyone does :)
I'm still in shock that I'm listed among the many talented authors at Dreamspinner Press! The little voice in the back of my head is screaming, "You are so out of your league."
Shhhhh I won't tell them if you don't :)
You can call me Jo, everyone does :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 30, 2016
2.5 Stars
I was so excited at the beginning. And then.. The BDSM scene bored me out. I had a hard time liking Max. I know he got a reputation to uphold. But sometimes it feels like he's pressuring Cisco too much. It's not sweet. :(
This book ended inHFN. Wait, it feels like cliffhanger to me.
I was so excited at the beginning. And then.. The BDSM scene bored me out. I had a hard time liking Max. I know he got a reputation to uphold. But sometimes it feels like he's pressuring Cisco too much. It's not sweet. :(
This book ended in
October 31, 2015
Vampires and BDSM? Hell yeah, why not.
Innocence to the Max was a short story contributed to the ‘Don’t read in the Closet’ event on GR. Now it’s a full length novel featuring Max, an old Vampire and Dom and owner of a BDSM club, and Cisco, a 21 years innocent guy… who already fell for the powerful vampire Dom when he was just 16.
Five years later he walks into Wicked Ground, Max’s BDSM club to finally meet the vampire who seems to be his destiny.
They share a mythical bond, it’s called Iunctiō Cōpula, a powerful binding link capable of restoring cold, dead hearts. A bond that makes Max vulnerable to Zeke and his king Liam, his worst enemies.
I liked the story but didn’t love it. I just couldn’t warm up to Max, the powerful vampire and Dom, who (in my opinion) fails to give Cisco what he really needs. Max is a difficult character, yes… and he is possessive… But does he love the sweet guy or is it only the mythical bond that ties him to Cisco?
All in all, the story was entertaining to read and I’m looking forward to the next installment. My dream couple for it would be Angelo and Benny. There was something going on with those two, right?
October 1, 2015
What can I say about this book...
You get your BDSM at the same time you have a Vampire Dom. Um is there anything better than that!
Poor Innocent Cisco and being thrown into this lifestyle but to over come is fear and be so strong for Max.
Max a one hundred year old vampire who has finally found is soul mate. He is so strong but at the same time so protective of Max. I really liked his character.
I will be honest I was a little leery about Max at first with the way he treated Cisco but once I read further in the book it made more sense to me.
So you get your steam and your BDSM, angst plus the bad guy and wrap it all together for a 100% Awesome book! I don't want to give to much away because this is one you really need to read for yourself because it was so good!
Now this is where I say I am hoping Benny and Angelo will get a book because after reading that one part... Yea I am so excited to see were that goes lol.
So all together I 100% loved this book!
I would definitely recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
You get your BDSM at the same time you have a Vampire Dom. Um is there anything better than that!
Poor Innocent Cisco and being thrown into this lifestyle but to over come is fear and be so strong for Max.
Max a one hundred year old vampire who has finally found is soul mate. He is so strong but at the same time so protective of Max. I really liked his character.
I will be honest I was a little leery about Max at first with the way he treated Cisco but once I read further in the book it made more sense to me.
So you get your steam and your BDSM, angst plus the bad guy and wrap it all together for a 100% Awesome book! I don't want to give to much away because this is one you really need to read for yourself because it was so good!
Now this is where I say I am hoping Benny and Angelo will get a book because after reading that one part... Yea I am so excited to see were that goes lol.
So all together I 100% loved this book!
I would definitely recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
October 16, 2015
This would have gotten 4 stars if it weren't for the way this ended. I wouldn't call the ending a HEA or HFN because there were a lot of things left to resolve, not to mention the relationship between Max and Cisco seemed broken to me. I want to see them both happy with everything resolved. You can't have all that crap happen to them and not get a HEA.
December 22, 2022
I spent some time recently discussing this book with the author, and what she had to say only whet my appetite even more. The description alone thrilled me down to the core as 'Innocence to the Max' has every trope I adore. BDSM, vampires, power plays, ruthlessness, innocence, mythical lore, and a possibility of a forever love story. Sigh. Yes, this book was mine from the first moment I knew of it.
"Remember I asked you to throw out everything you thought you knew about BDSM?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“It wasn’t a flippant statement. This is not your typical club, nor am I a typical Master. Out there, in your world, you can safeword—as a submissive you have the most power. But not here, Cisco. My kind are but animals with a tentative hold on humanity. Here, you fuck up, you die. I won’t let that happen.”
From the moment human Cisco and vampire Max's eyes met, they knew they'd found the one for them. It's not as simple as that, however, when you're the most powerful vampire in the area, and your mate is an innocent human. In the five years Cisco waited to be with Max, he did his research on vampires and BDSM, but nothing, and I mean nothing, prepared him for the first time he stepped into Wicked Ground. Max had planned to wait, to watch Cisco learn, and to slowly guide him, before allowing the clan to see that Cisco is his blood bond mate. Unfortunately for them both, the very first night, Zeke, a blight upon Max, causes a ruckus, and Max shows his hand too soon. Max can't be seen as weak, so he must do everything he can to keep Cisco safe. And, above all, he cannot allow anyone to know that he believes Cisco and himself are fated to be Iunctiō Cōpula. A lore that most believe to be myth. A myth that would allow Max and Cisco to not only bond, but would allow Max's heart to beat again.
Now, remember what I said at the beginning regarding all of my favorite tropes? There are so many political and power machinations going on that it increased my enjoyment level by a thousand, easily. Max is, of course, right in the middle as he's spent years gathering evidence against the vampire king of California, and now it is time for Max to send his right-hand man, Angelo, to the king of the vampires with this information. For you see, in this author's vampire world, there are a lot of rules they are held to so they can live side by side with humans. But, as is often the case, there are some who believe they should rule over the humans. And they will stop at nothing to get what they want.
Oh, Jo, my friend…you've outdone yourself here! Seriously. I loved Max. Completely loved him. I understood exactly why there were times he had to be harsh with Cisco. This vampire world isn't full of any that sparkle. Every minute that Cisco spent in their world, his life was in danger. So yes, I understood. Not so sure I appreciated my sweet Cisco having to suffer at the end, but the bloodbath fight Max partakes in was magnificent. I'm a bloodthirsty girl at heart, especially if someone wrongs me, so Max had every right and I cheered at the gore!
Loved it. Loved everything about it. I especially liked the way the author left it. There's still work to be done by both Max and Cisco in order for them to find their happiness and peace. I was thrilled the author didn't tie it up in a pretty little bow. I am so looking forward to the next book. I want to see more of Max and Cisco, and I'd love some exploration into Angelo and Benny. I'm definitely sure Jo has plans for them.
"Remember I asked you to throw out everything you thought you knew about BDSM?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“It wasn’t a flippant statement. This is not your typical club, nor am I a typical Master. Out there, in your world, you can safeword—as a submissive you have the most power. But not here, Cisco. My kind are but animals with a tentative hold on humanity. Here, you fuck up, you die. I won’t let that happen.”
From the moment human Cisco and vampire Max's eyes met, they knew they'd found the one for them. It's not as simple as that, however, when you're the most powerful vampire in the area, and your mate is an innocent human. In the five years Cisco waited to be with Max, he did his research on vampires and BDSM, but nothing, and I mean nothing, prepared him for the first time he stepped into Wicked Ground. Max had planned to wait, to watch Cisco learn, and to slowly guide him, before allowing the clan to see that Cisco is his blood bond mate. Unfortunately for them both, the very first night, Zeke, a blight upon Max, causes a ruckus, and Max shows his hand too soon. Max can't be seen as weak, so he must do everything he can to keep Cisco safe. And, above all, he cannot allow anyone to know that he believes Cisco and himself are fated to be Iunctiō Cōpula. A lore that most believe to be myth. A myth that would allow Max and Cisco to not only bond, but would allow Max's heart to beat again.
Now, remember what I said at the beginning regarding all of my favorite tropes? There are so many political and power machinations going on that it increased my enjoyment level by a thousand, easily. Max is, of course, right in the middle as he's spent years gathering evidence against the vampire king of California, and now it is time for Max to send his right-hand man, Angelo, to the king of the vampires with this information. For you see, in this author's vampire world, there are a lot of rules they are held to so they can live side by side with humans. But, as is often the case, there are some who believe they should rule over the humans. And they will stop at nothing to get what they want.
Oh, Jo, my friend…you've outdone yourself here! Seriously. I loved Max. Completely loved him. I understood exactly why there were times he had to be harsh with Cisco. This vampire world isn't full of any that sparkle. Every minute that Cisco spent in their world, his life was in danger. So yes, I understood. Not so sure I appreciated my sweet Cisco having to suffer at the end, but the bloodbath fight Max partakes in was magnificent. I'm a bloodthirsty girl at heart, especially if someone wrongs me, so Max had every right and I cheered at the gore!
Loved it. Loved everything about it. I especially liked the way the author left it. There's still work to be done by both Max and Cisco in order for them to find their happiness and peace. I was thrilled the author didn't tie it up in a pretty little bow. I am so looking forward to the next book. I want to see more of Max and Cisco, and I'd love some exploration into Angelo and Benny. I'm definitely sure Jo has plans for them.
November 12, 2015
A review by The Blogger Girls.
This is the story about a centuries old powerful vampire who believes in a legend (Iunctiō Cōpula) that finding his true mate will bring him to life, so to speak; that his heart will beat again, he will feel warmth, taste, etc. He believes his mate is Cisco, but keeps his distance watching over Cisco until he is of age.
Cisco remembers seeing Max all those years ago, knows there is a powerful pull to him and waits until he is old enough before seeking him out at Max’s club, Wicked Grounds. He has no clue what he is getting into, just that he knows he needs to be with Max and will do anything to make that happen.
I had a difficult time with this story. I think the hardest for me was believing such an old and experienced vampire would have anything in common with a naïve teenager. This was apparent to me throughout the story and made Cisco appear as nothing more than Max’s pet. Cisco tries so hard to be the perfect sub, but he has little to no guidance and is thrown into things very quickly. I loved poor Cisco, but wish he had some stronger more positive adult influence in his life.
Max, on the other hand, drove me nuts. He was so concerned with the legend and his need to find out more before taking action in case he did something wrong or out of order that he refused to even so much as feed from Cisco, thus leaving him basically unclaimed and more open to attack.
There are some really great side characters here, and I’d love to see more of them in the future. Angelo was very intriguing, and I think a story with him and possibly Cisco’s bestie, Benny could be quite interesting. This is definitely an interesting world that Ms. Peterson has created with many possibilities. While this one didn’t wow me, I am still looking forward to the next one to see where things go from here.
October 15, 2015
"Innocent To The Max" by SJD Peterson (MM/Vampire/BDSM)
A copy of this book was provided to me by Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
***3 1/2 STARS***
Though I've read many SJD Peterson novels, I don't think I've read a vampire one by this author. This story is about Francisco, "Cisco", who was only 16 when he realized that he belonged to Max, a 100 year old vampire who owns a BDSM club. When he turned 21, he went to the club to meet his fate.
The story started off interesting. It captured my attention, the way Cisco first made eye contact with Max. I thought it was pretty brave of him to enter a BDSM club and face the unknown just to find his soulmate aka "Master". The second time they met, their meeting was tense because of a certain situation but it was sweet how Max reacted. He was protective and sweet, and I just sighed. Then things turned dark pretty quickly.
I've read many BDSM books, mostly by this author, but it's not my favorite theme. I can read about them, but it has to have romance to balance me off. Well, this started with sparks of romance, then suddenly Cisco was in danger so Max thought he had to be stern and show no love to Cisco in front of others, or else be viewed as weak. That’s what brought it to 3 1/2 stars for me. I didn't get enough romance. There was glimpses here and there, but not enough. This wasn't very heavy on the BDSM, but it was there.
I felt really bad for Cisco, a little for Max. I wish I could read them falling in love, but things happened too quickly. I was actually more curious about his friend Benny, and Max's Second, Angelo. There's something there and I wanna read about it. Honestly, I liked Benny’s upfront, in your face attitude better than Cisco’s timid one.
Would I recommend this book? Sure, I think many would enjoy it. I’d read part 2 if it was about Benny and Angelo. :)
A copy of this book was provided to me by Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
***3 1/2 STARS***
Though I've read many SJD Peterson novels, I don't think I've read a vampire one by this author. This story is about Francisco, "Cisco", who was only 16 when he realized that he belonged to Max, a 100 year old vampire who owns a BDSM club. When he turned 21, he went to the club to meet his fate.
The story started off interesting. It captured my attention, the way Cisco first made eye contact with Max. I thought it was pretty brave of him to enter a BDSM club and face the unknown just to find his soulmate aka "Master". The second time they met, their meeting was tense because of a certain situation but it was sweet how Max reacted. He was protective and sweet, and I just sighed. Then things turned dark pretty quickly.
I've read many BDSM books, mostly by this author, but it's not my favorite theme. I can read about them, but it has to have romance to balance me off. Well, this started with sparks of romance, then suddenly Cisco was in danger so Max thought he had to be stern and show no love to Cisco in front of others, or else be viewed as weak. That’s what brought it to 3 1/2 stars for me. I didn't get enough romance. There was glimpses here and there, but not enough. This wasn't very heavy on the BDSM, but it was there.
I felt really bad for Cisco, a little for Max. I wish I could read them falling in love, but things happened too quickly. I was actually more curious about his friend Benny, and Max's Second, Angelo. There's something there and I wanna read about it. Honestly, I liked Benny’s upfront, in your face attitude better than Cisco’s timid one.
Would I recommend this book? Sure, I think many would enjoy it. I’d read part 2 if it was about Benny and Angelo. :)
October 12, 2015
Innocence to the Max (Iunctio Copula #1)by SJD Peterson
4 stars
M/M Paranormal, Light BDSM, Mystery
Triggers: Rape, Kidnapping
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
This book started out not so good for me. While I can understand the infatuation both characters held, you are just kind of thrown in to a situation where Cisco is vying for Max's attention and Max inadvertently shows his hand far sooner than he wanted to his fellow paranormals. But, there is a giant hole in the story, because in the background, there is a plot of some sort, one of which you never really tease out, which just was confusing and slightly disappointing.
The relationship that Max and Cisco begin is a D/s one, however, I did not feel that Max was a very good Dom. Not only did he not prepare Cisco well, he was almost tyrannical in his demands of a sub who had never had any training. It just rubbed me the wrong way. And, despite the combination of yumminess that Peterson set up, I couldn't get over the fact that it just didn't really feel like a D/s relationship - more of a slave ownership.
Also, then you have Max's frantic manner during a crisis and are thrown in to yet another strange reveal, that actually doesn't reveal much - so the mystery continues. Overall, I enjoyed the story, but was left wondering about a lot of issues.
I really liked Benny's character. I do hope that we get to see more of him, as well as Angelo. Both of these secondary characters would do great in their own stories.
4 stars
M/M Paranormal, Light BDSM, Mystery
Triggers: Rape, Kidnapping
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
This book started out not so good for me. While I can understand the infatuation both characters held, you are just kind of thrown in to a situation where Cisco is vying for Max's attention and Max inadvertently shows his hand far sooner than he wanted to his fellow paranormals. But, there is a giant hole in the story, because in the background, there is a plot of some sort, one of which you never really tease out, which just was confusing and slightly disappointing.
The relationship that Max and Cisco begin is a D/s one, however, I did not feel that Max was a very good Dom. Not only did he not prepare Cisco well, he was almost tyrannical in his demands of a sub who had never had any training. It just rubbed me the wrong way. And, despite the combination of yumminess that Peterson set up, I couldn't get over the fact that it just didn't really feel like a D/s relationship - more of a slave ownership.
Also, then you have Max's frantic manner during a crisis and are thrown in to yet another strange reveal, that actually doesn't reveal much - so the mystery continues. Overall, I enjoyed the story, but was left wondering about a lot of issues.
I really liked Benny's character. I do hope that we get to see more of him, as well as Angelo. Both of these secondary characters would do great in their own stories.
October 16, 2015
I don't know about this one...and I've loved everything I've read from this author. When the book ended I was just sad and kinda let down, to be honest.
Max and Cisco started off great, but I feel like Max expected too much from Cisco right off the bat, and it seemed more like slave owner than sub/Dom relationship. No safe word, what? I get what the importance was of Max needing Cisco to look the part, but...y'know, just don't go to the club!
I wanted to know more about the "ilunctio copula" thing but we go through the whole book solving nothing about that. So I do hope that'll be explored in the next book, but I almost want Benny to have his own, much happier story. Because reading and knowing what happened to Cisco kinda makes me sad.
I look forward to book 2, whether it's about Benny or Angelo, or more with these two.
Max and Cisco started off great, but I feel like Max expected too much from Cisco right off the bat, and it seemed more like slave owner than sub/Dom relationship. No safe word, what? I get what the importance was of Max needing Cisco to look the part, but...y'know, just don't go to the club!
I wanted to know more about the "ilunctio copula" thing but we go through the whole book solving nothing about that. So I do hope that'll be explored in the next book, but I almost want Benny to have his own, much happier story. Because reading and knowing what happened to Cisco kinda makes me sad.
I look forward to book 2, whether it's about Benny or Angelo, or more with these two.
December 5, 2015
FourStars
There were parts of this book that I really liked and then there were parts that I didn't care so much for.
The fact that there was an instant connection, actually worked for me even though I don't normally care for insta love because it was paranormal perhaps, or because of the situations they found themselves in so quickly that made them staying close a necessity.
I felt like the love/long lasting relationship didn't play out the way I thought it would. There was so much promise there but with everything else going on, it was pushed to the side and I felt like it was just a side note, when it was supposed to be such a big thing to them both.
All in all, I liked the book, but wished it had played out a bit differently or focused on different aspects perhaps, which is a personal things, not necessarily the authors fault.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
There were parts of this book that I really liked and then there were parts that I didn't care so much for.
The fact that there was an instant connection, actually worked for me even though I don't normally care for insta love because it was paranormal perhaps, or because of the situations they found themselves in so quickly that made them staying close a necessity.
I felt like the love/long lasting relationship didn't play out the way I thought it would. There was so much promise there but with everything else going on, it was pushed to the side and I felt like it was just a side note, when it was supposed to be such a big thing to them both.
All in all, I liked the book, but wished it had played out a bit differently or focused on different aspects perhaps, which is a personal things, not necessarily the authors fault.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
November 24, 2015
4.5 Stars
Vampire stories are not normally my kind of reading but it was SJD Peterson so I decided to give it a try. Oh my God was I surprised to find I actually really liked this book. As always SJD Peterson writing style just drew me right in from the beginning. I absolutely loved Cisco but had a very hard time warming up to Max. I get that he’s a vampire and into BDSM but I felt he just needed to open up some. To me he came across as cold and unfeeling and I just didn’t understand him. Cisco however was great. I loved how he met Max at the age of 16 and had to wait until he was older (21) to really be with him. It was clear that Cisco would do anything for Max. I had to knock of ½ stars because it was unclear if the book had a HEA or a HFN ending.
I was given this book by Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
Vampire stories are not normally my kind of reading but it was SJD Peterson so I decided to give it a try. Oh my God was I surprised to find I actually really liked this book. As always SJD Peterson writing style just drew me right in from the beginning. I absolutely loved Cisco but had a very hard time warming up to Max. I get that he’s a vampire and into BDSM but I felt he just needed to open up some. To me he came across as cold and unfeeling and I just didn’t understand him. Cisco however was great. I loved how he met Max at the age of 16 and had to wait until he was older (21) to really be with him. It was clear that Cisco would do anything for Max. I had to knock of ½ stars because it was unclear if the book had a HEA or a HFN ending.
I was given this book by Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
November 10, 2015
~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads Review Team~
3 stars for this M/M
I was so excited to read this book, M/M, vampires, BDSM, sounds amazing!!! Ugh, but it wasn’t amazing, it was just ok. I was hoping for so much more, I have loved almost every single book written by this author but this one just fell flat for me. I didn’t feel the love between the characters, you could feel there was a spark and a connection but they didn’t act on it. There was one hot scene and that was it. I was waiting for more and never got it. Then that ending! Seriously?! Even if there was a follow up book I am not sure if I would read it at it this point.
3 stars for this M/M
I was so excited to read this book, M/M, vampires, BDSM, sounds amazing!!! Ugh, but it wasn’t amazing, it was just ok. I was hoping for so much more, I have loved almost every single book written by this author but this one just fell flat for me. I didn’t feel the love between the characters, you could feel there was a spark and a connection but they didn’t act on it. There was one hot scene and that was it. I was waiting for more and never got it. Then that ending! Seriously?! Even if there was a follow up book I am not sure if I would read it at it this point.
December 1, 2015
*MC’s Corner*
I think it started really great.
It was very captivating… the waiting years before he really can have his soulmate is kinda sexy and really hot.
Then came the second half… Well lets just say that most of the time I was reading that, I was frowning.
WHO IN THE EFFING SHIT ARE THOSE EFFING CHARACTERS?! SERIOUSLY?
@gleekidMC
I think it started really great.
It was very captivating… the waiting years before he really can have his soulmate is kinda sexy and really hot.
Then came the second half… Well lets just say that most of the time I was reading that, I was frowning.
WHO IN THE EFFING SHIT ARE THOSE EFFING CHARACTERS?! SERIOUSLY?
@gleekidMC
January 23, 2017
I can only give this one 3 stars because I felt it was unfinished. It was like the prequel to the real story. All the crap they had to deal with to get to the Iunctio Copula part of the story, so yeah. Unfinished. Sort of a disappointment at the end.
April 1, 2016
3.75 stars
Vampire Dom!
Vampire Dom!
December 7, 2015
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
When Cisco Aguilar spots a hot, leather-clad man with deep, dark eyes standing in the doorway of Wicked Grounds, an exclusive BDSM club, he knows that the spark of attraction he feels is something he will never forget. Cisco is out celebrating his sixteenth birthday so he can’t just make his friend stop the car and jump out to run into the club to meet the man, but he knows he will someday. He feels it’s his destiny.
The main story opens five years later as Cisco is getting ready to go to Wicked Grounds to pursue his destiny. He knows he’s going to finally be with Maximilian De Ferrari, who is both a vampire and the owner of the exclusive BDSM club. He’s prepared himself for this visit by reading everything he can find on the subject of BDSM, and he thinks he knows how to dress and how to behave in a way that will attract Max. In the meantime, Max knows he’s coming. Throughout the story there are references to Max having tracked down and identified his beautiful boy, and he not only knows Cisco’s full name but he knows he is to be Max’s soulmate as they fulfill their destiny as soulmates.
Unfortunately, as soon as he arrives at the bar, Cisco is accosted by Zeke, a powerful vampire who happens to be Max’s enemy—one who resents Max for his power and influence. As Zeke’s about to show the boy what BDSM is all about, Max rushes to Cisco’s rescue, thereby showing everyone present just how much Cisco means to him. Max had not planned on that at all. He had wanted to train Cisco and to explore their bond privately in the hope that their mating would allow for a very powerful and rare bonding link called Iunctio Copula—a bond rumored to be able to restore a dead heart to beating again.
Max takes Cisco to an apartment within the club and restricts him from leaving. He begins his training, but refrains from actually having sex with him, despite the fact that he knows and appreciates that Cisco has come to him as a virgin and that they are soulmates. Cisco’s BDSM training is fairly mild—definitely not what I’ve come to expect from this author in BDSM-themed stories. Max’s refusal to bite Cisco or to complete their soul bond in some way, even though he knows that many others, including Zeke, would like nothing better than to defeat Max and take Cisco away is another area that fell flat in this story.
Disaster does strike, separating the couple when Cisco is kidnapped. I didn’t feel the connection between Cisco and Max that I had expected to feel—at any time during the story—not from the beginning, not when they reconnected, and not at the end of the book when the author was setting up future stories.
Both the world-building and the plot were complex but didn’t capture my interest or generate any excitement to learn more about that universe. And though some may consider it minor, I found that one error kept pulling me from the story—the name of the location was either Wicked Grounds or Wicked Ground and was not corrected in the editing process. Both names are used throughout the book—and not only was that error in more than one place, it’s even that way in the blurb, so I still really don’t know if the club is called Wicked Ground or Wicked Grounds. Errors like that should not happen in a book from an established author. It just underlies the issues I had with the story. It felt incomplete with inconsistencies and a lack of romance and enduring love between the MCs.
Though it opened with a prologue of the MCs’ first glimpses of each other, and the first chapter opened with each apparently finally ready to meet the other five years later, there was no mention of how each found out the other’s name or background information. And though Max repeatedly stated that he’d been waiting for five years for “his boy” to show up on his twenty-first birthday, how did he know that if they’ve never spoken? And if that’s true, why wasn’t he waiting for the young man to come through the door, instead of letting the other vamps get to him first?
I could go on, but the main issues have been stated. All in all, I was very dissatisfied with this story, and very disappointed that there were so many areas that felt unfulfilled. It’s unlikely that I will read further even though Max and Cisco will be continuing together to learn more about Iunctio Copula and vampire Angelo is likely to get his story, most probably with Cisco’s outspoken friend, Ben.
When Cisco Aguilar spots a hot, leather-clad man with deep, dark eyes standing in the doorway of Wicked Grounds, an exclusive BDSM club, he knows that the spark of attraction he feels is something he will never forget. Cisco is out celebrating his sixteenth birthday so he can’t just make his friend stop the car and jump out to run into the club to meet the man, but he knows he will someday. He feels it’s his destiny.
The main story opens five years later as Cisco is getting ready to go to Wicked Grounds to pursue his destiny. He knows he’s going to finally be with Maximilian De Ferrari, who is both a vampire and the owner of the exclusive BDSM club. He’s prepared himself for this visit by reading everything he can find on the subject of BDSM, and he thinks he knows how to dress and how to behave in a way that will attract Max. In the meantime, Max knows he’s coming. Throughout the story there are references to Max having tracked down and identified his beautiful boy, and he not only knows Cisco’s full name but he knows he is to be Max’s soulmate as they fulfill their destiny as soulmates.
Unfortunately, as soon as he arrives at the bar, Cisco is accosted by Zeke, a powerful vampire who happens to be Max’s enemy—one who resents Max for his power and influence. As Zeke’s about to show the boy what BDSM is all about, Max rushes to Cisco’s rescue, thereby showing everyone present just how much Cisco means to him. Max had not planned on that at all. He had wanted to train Cisco and to explore their bond privately in the hope that their mating would allow for a very powerful and rare bonding link called Iunctio Copula—a bond rumored to be able to restore a dead heart to beating again.
Max takes Cisco to an apartment within the club and restricts him from leaving. He begins his training, but refrains from actually having sex with him, despite the fact that he knows and appreciates that Cisco has come to him as a virgin and that they are soulmates. Cisco’s BDSM training is fairly mild—definitely not what I’ve come to expect from this author in BDSM-themed stories. Max’s refusal to bite Cisco or to complete their soul bond in some way, even though he knows that many others, including Zeke, would like nothing better than to defeat Max and take Cisco away is another area that fell flat in this story.
Disaster does strike, separating the couple when Cisco is kidnapped. I didn’t feel the connection between Cisco and Max that I had expected to feel—at any time during the story—not from the beginning, not when they reconnected, and not at the end of the book when the author was setting up future stories.
Both the world-building and the plot were complex but didn’t capture my interest or generate any excitement to learn more about that universe. And though some may consider it minor, I found that one error kept pulling me from the story—the name of the location was either Wicked Grounds or Wicked Ground and was not corrected in the editing process. Both names are used throughout the book—and not only was that error in more than one place, it’s even that way in the blurb, so I still really don’t know if the club is called Wicked Ground or Wicked Grounds. Errors like that should not happen in a book from an established author. It just underlies the issues I had with the story. It felt incomplete with inconsistencies and a lack of romance and enduring love between the MCs.
Though it opened with a prologue of the MCs’ first glimpses of each other, and the first chapter opened with each apparently finally ready to meet the other five years later, there was no mention of how each found out the other’s name or background information. And though Max repeatedly stated that he’d been waiting for five years for “his boy” to show up on his twenty-first birthday, how did he know that if they’ve never spoken? And if that’s true, why wasn’t he waiting for the young man to come through the door, instead of letting the other vamps get to him first?
I could go on, but the main issues have been stated. All in all, I was very dissatisfied with this story, and very disappointed that there were so many areas that felt unfulfilled. It’s unlikely that I will read further even though Max and Cisco will be continuing together to learn more about Iunctio Copula and vampire Angelo is likely to get his story, most probably with Cisco’s outspoken friend, Ben.
February 12, 2018
To be fair, I'm reading a shorter version of this story. From the Don't Read in the Closet, Hot Summer Nights anthology.
May 6, 2019
Ends in a cliffhanger, doesn’t look like there will be a second book
October 30, 2015
4 Heart Review by Amber
First things first I have to express how unbelievably frustrating Max was. Not wanting to complete the bond, being so cold, keeping Cisco at arm’s length, not feeding from Cisco, getting all emo and “woe is me…I’m so dead and have no heart beat” his whole deal got old for me very quickly. Then as things transpire and how Max’s hang-ups and uncertainties ultimately affected Cisco in the worst possible way imaginable, I wanted to kick and scream and throw something. It made me feel like M’Lynn in Steel Magnolias because I kept thinking reading those specific scenes, “I don’t think I can take this! I don’t think I can take this! I just wanna hit somebody ’til they feel as bad as I do! I just wanna hit something! I wanna hit it hard!”
Now that I got that off my chest I can express that I did actually enjoy this story on the whole. I’m not sure I’ve ever read an SJD Peterson book that I didn’t like. She’s a master storyteller, an amazing author and she knows how to suck in her readers.
I was completely won over by Cisco and several side characters. Cisco is the perfect sub. He’s unquestionable loyalty and trust in Max was beautiful. He was the epitome of the perfect submissive partner. It wasn’t hard for me to see why Benny (I LOVED Benny!!!!!!) was so willing to put himself in harms way to try and protect Cisco. I’m hoping so desperately that he has a book in the future because as submissive as Cisco is, Benny is the complete opposite and I loved every minute of it.
Overall, I think lovers of paranormal and BDSM books will go crazy for this story. It’s very uniquely told and the world that’s captured draws you in. There are some frustrating occurrences here and there but they don’t take away from the world or the other endearing characters. Pretty good start to a series. I’m very intrigued to see where it all goes from here.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
First things first I have to express how unbelievably frustrating Max was. Not wanting to complete the bond, being so cold, keeping Cisco at arm’s length, not feeding from Cisco, getting all emo and “woe is me…I’m so dead and have no heart beat” his whole deal got old for me very quickly. Then as things transpire and how Max’s hang-ups and uncertainties ultimately affected Cisco in the worst possible way imaginable, I wanted to kick and scream and throw something. It made me feel like M’Lynn in Steel Magnolias because I kept thinking reading those specific scenes, “I don’t think I can take this! I don’t think I can take this! I just wanna hit somebody ’til they feel as bad as I do! I just wanna hit something! I wanna hit it hard!”
Now that I got that off my chest I can express that I did actually enjoy this story on the whole. I’m not sure I’ve ever read an SJD Peterson book that I didn’t like. She’s a master storyteller, an amazing author and she knows how to suck in her readers.
I was completely won over by Cisco and several side characters. Cisco is the perfect sub. He’s unquestionable loyalty and trust in Max was beautiful. He was the epitome of the perfect submissive partner. It wasn’t hard for me to see why Benny (I LOVED Benny!!!!!!) was so willing to put himself in harms way to try and protect Cisco. I’m hoping so desperately that he has a book in the future because as submissive as Cisco is, Benny is the complete opposite and I loved every minute of it.
Overall, I think lovers of paranormal and BDSM books will go crazy for this story. It’s very uniquely told and the world that’s captured draws you in. There are some frustrating occurrences here and there but they don’t take away from the world or the other endearing characters. Pretty good start to a series. I’m very intrigued to see where it all goes from here.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
October 21, 2015
** 3.5 Stars **
There is a really excellent story brewing here, and I anticipate a series that should come of Max's quest for a soul-changing bond with his boy, Cisco, as well as delve into the lives and loves of some of the secondary characters. As Ms. Peterson has done so well in past books, this paranormal version of the bonding of an omega submissive, and an uber-protective Dominant, is fraught with danger and intrigue side-by-side with an evolving D/s relationship. This time, its just done vampire style.
The mythical bond Cisco and Max might share is felt at a distance early in Cisco's young life, however, only begins to manifest itself when, on his 21st birthday, Cisco presents himself to Max's lair in a popular local BDSM Club to seek Max out. Even among vampires, the soul-deep bond Max seeks is mythical, and requires research by Max before he can determine how to start the process. If it even truly exists. Complicating the bonding process is a concomitant challenge to Max's power and authority by unknown forces from within.
I understand where the story line is heading, and I understand why it takes the course it does. As a reader, I wondered on several occasions if some of the danger might have been avoided had Cisco been given better understanding of the life he would have as Max's sub, including why Max did not begin the blood bond which, in theory, should have offset some of the danger. Forearmed, he could have more easily fallen into the complete submission expected of him and have been of more aid than hindrance to Max. On the other hand, it also fits that in the context of a vampire world, the Dom/sub dynamic is on an even more than normal need-to-know basis.
As the danger to Cisco becomes real, the plot fleshes out in a deeper way and all the machinations of vampire politics reveal themselves in a more satisfying way. The HFN ending lends itself to the continuation of a series or at least another book, and the pursuit of the elusive bond for Cisco and Max. Some key secondary characters and loyal allies to Max would also make for great stories. I mean, really, Angelo can't seriously think he can go through eternity without a bond. Can he?...
There is a really excellent story brewing here, and I anticipate a series that should come of Max's quest for a soul-changing bond with his boy, Cisco, as well as delve into the lives and loves of some of the secondary characters. As Ms. Peterson has done so well in past books, this paranormal version of the bonding of an omega submissive, and an uber-protective Dominant, is fraught with danger and intrigue side-by-side with an evolving D/s relationship. This time, its just done vampire style.
The mythical bond Cisco and Max might share is felt at a distance early in Cisco's young life, however, only begins to manifest itself when, on his 21st birthday, Cisco presents himself to Max's lair in a popular local BDSM Club to seek Max out. Even among vampires, the soul-deep bond Max seeks is mythical, and requires research by Max before he can determine how to start the process. If it even truly exists. Complicating the bonding process is a concomitant challenge to Max's power and authority by unknown forces from within.
I understand where the story line is heading, and I understand why it takes the course it does. As a reader, I wondered on several occasions if some of the danger might have been avoided had Cisco been given better understanding of the life he would have as Max's sub, including why Max did not begin the blood bond which, in theory, should have offset some of the danger. Forearmed, he could have more easily fallen into the complete submission expected of him and have been of more aid than hindrance to Max. On the other hand, it also fits that in the context of a vampire world, the Dom/sub dynamic is on an even more than normal need-to-know basis.
As the danger to Cisco becomes real, the plot fleshes out in a deeper way and all the machinations of vampire politics reveal themselves in a more satisfying way. The HFN ending lends itself to the continuation of a series or at least another book, and the pursuit of the elusive bond for Cisco and Max. Some key secondary characters and loyal allies to Max would also make for great stories. I mean, really, Angelo can't seriously think he can go through eternity without a bond. Can he?...
January 5, 2016
I have a mixed reaction to this story. On one hand it was not what I expected from SJD Peterson and on the other hand it was something different. So I am torn. The concept has been done, over and over with human and vampire finding themselves as mates; however something or someone is set on keeping them apart. A new concept was thrown into the mix with the human/vampire romance, Iunctiō Cōpula, or the mating that can cause a vampire's heart to beat again. The story is set to follow this lore, which we never do get to see if it's true..because the book ends. I am assuming this means there will be more of Max & Cisco's story otherwise there will be some angry readers!
So let's talk the nitty gritty -- this is a story between MAXIMILIAN DE Ferrari, vampire and Owner of Wicked Ground and FRANCISCO AGUILAR, aka Cisco -human. Vampires have publicly coexisted alongside humans for over twenty years. Cisco has just aged enough, 21, to enter Wicked Ground. For his birthday, Cisco wants to be owned and submit to a man, and after only one glimpse of Max, 5 years earlier, he knows he's meant to be owned by Max. Max, feels drawn to Cisco and has kept him under watch while his boy aged - yes, that is right his boy and everyone would be wise to remember that.
As you may imagine the story is full of ups and downs for this would be mated couple. Some predictable and some not so predictable. The sex between these two, well I have a feeling it would be hot..if it ever happened. Sure there is some PDA/Prelim sex but like the mating ritual, sex is absent from this book between the two main characters.
Overall, this book is average with a solid 3.5 star rating and probably a 2 in flames/heat ..as I said some stuff just wasn't in this book. I am anticipating a sequel and hopefully a completion of the story. I do think this book should be classified as a cliffhanger rather than complete novel.
ARC provided by author for an honest review. Reviewed by JLoves2read from Alpha Book Club and Jessewaves Reviews.
So let's talk the nitty gritty -- this is a story between MAXIMILIAN DE Ferrari, vampire and Owner of Wicked Ground and FRANCISCO AGUILAR, aka Cisco -human. Vampires have publicly coexisted alongside humans for over twenty years. Cisco has just aged enough, 21, to enter Wicked Ground. For his birthday, Cisco wants to be owned and submit to a man, and after only one glimpse of Max, 5 years earlier, he knows he's meant to be owned by Max. Max, feels drawn to Cisco and has kept him under watch while his boy aged - yes, that is right his boy and everyone would be wise to remember that.
As you may imagine the story is full of ups and downs for this would be mated couple. Some predictable and some not so predictable. The sex between these two, well I have a feeling it would be hot..if it ever happened. Sure there is some PDA/Prelim sex but like the mating ritual, sex is absent from this book between the two main characters.
Overall, this book is average with a solid 3.5 star rating and probably a 2 in flames/heat ..as I said some stuff just wasn't in this book. I am anticipating a sequel and hopefully a completion of the story. I do think this book should be classified as a cliffhanger rather than complete novel.
ARC provided by author for an honest review. Reviewed by JLoves2read from Alpha Book Club and Jessewaves Reviews.
January 25, 2019
I originally downloaded this story free from OmniLit not knowing that I did not have the whole story; what I downloaded was the prologue and the first 2 chapters and I really liked it--I thought it was just a short story. When I saw the offer (for $6.99) on Amazon I knew there had to be more to the story so when I looked at the page count and saw there was indeed much more, I bought it immediately. I am so sorry I did.
As I mentioned, I really liked it when I thought it was a short story, but it seemed like the 2 MC's changed so much in the rest of the story that I no longer cared for either of them very much.
Cisco became so totally pliant and accepting of everything(even stuff that wasn't explained to him fully) that he lost all interest for me. And Max....what a jerk!!! He tells Cisco that the submissive humans cannot be seen by others to question their Vampire master or the Vampire will be viewed as weak, OK, fine but he treats Cisco the same when they are alone together where there isn't anyone to see. Also, I agree with the other reveiwer who said Max didn't seem like any kind of a Dom to them.***Possible spoilers*** He took Cisco out into the club with no real training, then got snotty because his untrained sub made a mistake or two. He did not keep Cisco with him when he went into day sleep( I don't think any of the Vamps kept their subs with them) which I can kind of understand, however, when he woke he always faught himself over going to Cisco immediately, even though he knew Cisco had to be stressed over all the changes in his life...he was too afraid of seeming weak. Not a good Dom in my opinion. He should have put Cisco's fears and needs over his own comfort and he never did.
Even when Cisco was taken(which should have been a nail biter moment) I found I did not really care because the writting seemed so flat and distant.
Overall, I am so disappointed that I bought this. I liked both characters so much better(and the story in general) when I had only read what I thought was a short story.
As I mentioned, I really liked it when I thought it was a short story, but it seemed like the 2 MC's changed so much in the rest of the story that I no longer cared for either of them very much.
Cisco became so totally pliant and accepting of everything(even stuff that wasn't explained to him fully) that he lost all interest for me. And Max....what a jerk!!! He tells Cisco that the submissive humans cannot be seen by others to question their Vampire master or the Vampire will be viewed as weak, OK, fine but he treats Cisco the same when they are alone together where there isn't anyone to see. Also, I agree with the other reveiwer who said Max didn't seem like any kind of a Dom to them.***Possible spoilers*** He took Cisco out into the club with no real training, then got snotty because his untrained sub made a mistake or two. He did not keep Cisco with him when he went into day sleep( I don't think any of the Vamps kept their subs with them) which I can kind of understand, however, when he woke he always faught himself over going to Cisco immediately, even though he knew Cisco had to be stressed over all the changes in his life...he was too afraid of seeming weak. Not a good Dom in my opinion. He should have put Cisco's fears and needs over his own comfort and he never did.
Even when Cisco was taken(which should have been a nail biter moment) I found I did not really care because the writting seemed so flat and distant.
Overall, I am so disappointed that I bought this. I liked both characters so much better(and the story in general) when I had only read what I thought was a short story.
February 23, 2017
I didn't like this as much as I thought I was going to when I read the blurb and bought it on kindle then and there.
Cisco was way too subbie for me and Max was too weak for a Dom. I was more interested in the secondary character, Danny and Angelo. They were far more interesting.
Cisco was way too subbie for me and Max was too weak for a Dom. I was more interested in the secondary character, Danny and Angelo. They were far more interesting.
October 21, 2015
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
This made me think of a fairy tale that turned into a horror story.
“Once upon a time a young boy named Cisco who was only 16 drove past a man who was dark and brooding and knew that one day he would belong to him”
Not only would Cisco belong to this dark and brooding man he would be consumed by him. The man in question is Max – vampire, Dom and owner of a BDSM club.
Years pass before they finally meet face to face but when Cisco is 21 he bravely walks into Max’s club Wicked Dreams and his life as he knows it changes forever.
Not only are they supposed to be together they have the opportunity to form a very special bond, one that Max covets more than anything else in his life.
Cisco is so naïve he has no idea what he is doing but he is certain he is doing the right thing. Humans have been aware of the existence of vampires for over 2 decades but they don’t really know very much about their culture or the violence in their society that remains hidden. In his bravery he unwittingly makes an enemy and now Max must do everything in his power to protect him.
Max is a really difficult character to like – I mean like throw your kindle at the wall and curse him kind of dislike. At times he takes poor Cisco’s heart and flays it open with his sharp barbs and cruel comments and even though you have an idea of why it still makes you want to beat him.
Power struggles and jealousies will leave your heart breaking for Cisco and Max slowly losing his sanity but to take away a vampires soul mate is to dance with the devil and retribution will be swift. I loved the bloodshed, I’m a gory kind of girl, and I loved the absolute possessiveness that Max felt. The ending felt like Max and Cisco still have more to come and I hope we see more of them and they can resolve their issues. I am looking forward to Angelo’s story too and if I had to guess Benny will be involved.
This made me think of a fairy tale that turned into a horror story.
“Once upon a time a young boy named Cisco who was only 16 drove past a man who was dark and brooding and knew that one day he would belong to him”
Not only would Cisco belong to this dark and brooding man he would be consumed by him. The man in question is Max – vampire, Dom and owner of a BDSM club.
Years pass before they finally meet face to face but when Cisco is 21 he bravely walks into Max’s club Wicked Dreams and his life as he knows it changes forever.
Not only are they supposed to be together they have the opportunity to form a very special bond, one that Max covets more than anything else in his life.
Cisco is so naïve he has no idea what he is doing but he is certain he is doing the right thing. Humans have been aware of the existence of vampires for over 2 decades but they don’t really know very much about their culture or the violence in their society that remains hidden. In his bravery he unwittingly makes an enemy and now Max must do everything in his power to protect him.
Max is a really difficult character to like – I mean like throw your kindle at the wall and curse him kind of dislike. At times he takes poor Cisco’s heart and flays it open with his sharp barbs and cruel comments and even though you have an idea of why it still makes you want to beat him.
Power struggles and jealousies will leave your heart breaking for Cisco and Max slowly losing his sanity but to take away a vampires soul mate is to dance with the devil and retribution will be swift. I loved the bloodshed, I’m a gory kind of girl, and I loved the absolute possessiveness that Max felt. The ending felt like Max and Cisco still have more to come and I hope we see more of them and they can resolve their issues. I am looking forward to Angelo’s story too and if I had to guess Benny will be involved.
October 22, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Possession to the Max is the first book in the new Iunctio Cupola series by SJD Peterson, and it has several elements that drew me in. Peterson writes great BDSM, so I was really intrigued about a story that incorporates that with a paranormal bent. And I think she has some nice elements here, creating an interesting and really different take on the vampire world. Things are violent, political, and the vampires are all pretty dominant guys, many of whom have human submissives. These guys are intense, Max in particular, and don’t retain a lot of the emotions from their humanity, making them powerful and possessive.
Peterson also has a nice take on the politics here, showing the two factions with their different takes on the vampire role in the human world. At times I found it to be a lot of characters to keep track of, but I think the set up is interesting here and there is lots of potential to explore in this world.
The part where I struggled here is in the relationship between the guys. This is a fated mates/instalove story on steroids. The guys literally do nothing but catch a glimpse of one another as Cisco drives by and that is enough to create a total obsession for both of them. Before they ever even talk to each other, each man prepares for what will ultimately be their life long partnership. Cisco learns all about vampires and BDSM. Max prepares an apartment in his compound for Cisco to live in. They have zero contact for five years, but each man is prepared to dedicate his life to the other.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Possession to the Max is the first book in the new Iunctio Cupola series by SJD Peterson, and it has several elements that drew me in. Peterson writes great BDSM, so I was really intrigued about a story that incorporates that with a paranormal bent. And I think she has some nice elements here, creating an interesting and really different take on the vampire world. Things are violent, political, and the vampires are all pretty dominant guys, many of whom have human submissives. These guys are intense, Max in particular, and don’t retain a lot of the emotions from their humanity, making them powerful and possessive.
Peterson also has a nice take on the politics here, showing the two factions with their different takes on the vampire role in the human world. At times I found it to be a lot of characters to keep track of, but I think the set up is interesting here and there is lots of potential to explore in this world.
The part where I struggled here is in the relationship between the guys. This is a fated mates/instalove story on steroids. The guys literally do nothing but catch a glimpse of one another as Cisco drives by and that is enough to create a total obsession for both of them. Before they ever even talk to each other, each man prepares for what will ultimately be their life long partnership. Cisco learns all about vampires and BDSM. Max prepares an apartment in his compound for Cisco to live in. They have zero contact for five years, but each man is prepared to dedicate his life to the other.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
December 2, 2015
Review can be read at It's About The Book
Cisco fell completely for Max at first sight. Unfortunately, that sight was a glimpse and Cisco is underage. Little does Cisco know Max fell just as hard and fast. Max knows he has to wait, and he knows Cisco may be capable of changing his existence. On his twenty-first birthday Cisco goes into Max’s club to get his man. His vampire. It doesn’t exactly go as either one of them planned their first time speaking to each other. Politics happens. A lot of politics happens. Cisco is accepting of the fact he needs to radically change his life to deal with all that’s expected of them, but he doesn’t really get it. Things don’t go well. They really, really don’t go well.
There’s two ways this book could go. It could be viewed as “classic” vampire romance. All the pageantry of men in leather and thigh high boots. Big shirts with plenty of ruffles. There’s lots of vampire politics and dominance based on age, fated mates that are hard to find, and blood bonds. Unfortunately, this book could also be viewed as cliché. Yet another story where the vampire romantic interest dresses like a pirate and has to outmanoeuvre his evil rivals to save our hero who needs saving.
I didn’t particularly enjoy this story but do believe there is nothing wrong with this book in terms of craft. If you want to read about the classic vampire lover who is an amalgamation of Lestat, Jean Claude, and Bill this is the book for you. If you’ve moved beyond fated lovers and guys dressed like pirates tracing around the room give this one a pass.
Cisco fell completely for Max at first sight. Unfortunately, that sight was a glimpse and Cisco is underage. Little does Cisco know Max fell just as hard and fast. Max knows he has to wait, and he knows Cisco may be capable of changing his existence. On his twenty-first birthday Cisco goes into Max’s club to get his man. His vampire. It doesn’t exactly go as either one of them planned their first time speaking to each other. Politics happens. A lot of politics happens. Cisco is accepting of the fact he needs to radically change his life to deal with all that’s expected of them, but he doesn’t really get it. Things don’t go well. They really, really don’t go well.
There’s two ways this book could go. It could be viewed as “classic” vampire romance. All the pageantry of men in leather and thigh high boots. Big shirts with plenty of ruffles. There’s lots of vampire politics and dominance based on age, fated mates that are hard to find, and blood bonds. Unfortunately, this book could also be viewed as cliché. Yet another story where the vampire romantic interest dresses like a pirate and has to outmanoeuvre his evil rivals to save our hero who needs saving.
I didn’t particularly enjoy this story but do believe there is nothing wrong with this book in terms of craft. If you want to read about the classic vampire lover who is an amalgamation of Lestat, Jean Claude, and Bill this is the book for you. If you’ve moved beyond fated lovers and guys dressed like pirates tracing around the room give this one a pass.
July 4, 2016
I really wanted to like this story more than I did. However, I was greatly disappointed in the events that took place once Zeke kidnapped Cisco. I desperately wanted Max to save him in time and while it apparently didn't ultimately break their bond...it changed it and that ruined this story for me. The ending is also somewhat of a cliffhanger; which I absolutely hate! It appears this is meant to be part of a series but I don't see the author working towards any additional books. It definitely needs that to redeem my feelings towards the direction of Max and Cisco's relationship. Max asks Cisco to never lie to him and in the end he is despite promising to do everything to make Max's dreams come true. And Zeke took something special from their relationship/bond. This was either a poorly planned storyline or just bad decisions by the author for the outcome. I normally really like her books but this one was a big disappointment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2016
DNF around 50%. I was originally excited about this book because the premise is interesting and it's a bit longer than what I usually find in this genre. However, there was very little/no chemistry between the main characters, and neither of them were very likeable or relatable. Max was a difficult character because one minute he was acting on emotions and the next he seemed almost robotic (this was especially true when reading from Cisco's POV - there is a difference between a Dom trying to keep a sub on his feet to someone with nonsensical emotions). The scenes between them were dry and uninteresting (I found myself skimming once I finally did get to these scenes).
November 1, 2015
3.5*
Not quite sure about this book. It left some important things unresolved. Hopefully they will be cleared up in the next book.
I did like how Max and Cisco did seem to click! I wasn't sure how their relationship would work until I read further into the book. These two really fit and the trust that Cisco has in Max is amazing. I hope the next book clears some of these mystery's up and its about Benny and Angelo maybe?
Not quite sure about this book. It left some important things unresolved. Hopefully they will be cleared up in the next book.
I did like how Max and Cisco did seem to click! I wasn't sure how their relationship would work until I read further into the book. These two really fit and the trust that Cisco has in Max is amazing. I hope the next book clears some of these mystery's up and its about Benny and Angelo maybe?
November 22, 2015
3.5
I really like this author but this book I just don't know...the writing was good as usual but the plot just wasn't there for me...I wanted to like it but it just didn't flow for me...I don't know if I will continue to read the series...now I might read the next book if it's about Angelo and Benny...I wanted more of them than I did the main MC's....
I really like this author but this book I just don't know...the writing was good as usual but the plot just wasn't there for me...I wanted to like it but it just didn't flow for me...I don't know if I will continue to read the series...now I might read the next book if it's about Angelo and Benny...I wanted more of them than I did the main MC's....
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