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An Underground Club Tale

Don’t judge a book by its cover….

At over six feet, with a body honed in the gym, auto worker Donavan Gregory is used to people assuming he’s a dominant top. Unfortunately, they’re wrong, and Donavan’s desire to explore his submissive side goes unfulfilled.

Smaller and older than Donavan, Dr. Seth Manning might not look like a typical Dominant, but when the two men meet at Pride, Donavan realizes Seth might be his perfect counterpart. The trouble is, Donavan doesn’t have as much experience with the BDSM world as he’d like. What could an educated, handsome, and confident man like Seth possibly see in someone like him? Seth must convince him that despite the differences on the surface, when it comes to kinky fun and discovery, they’ll fit together just fine.

200 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 31, 2016

35 people are currently reading
551 people want to read

About the author

S.J.D. Peterson

52 books1,018 followers
It'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 :)

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
Profile Image for ~✡~Dαni(ela) ♥ ♂♂ love & semi-colons~✡~.
3,585 reviews1,125 followers
August 6, 2016
If you like stories that are high on sweetness and low on angst with an extra dose of naughty, Override is the book for you. I am a fluffaholic; I don't need angst to be happy (just the opposite, in fact). I adored the first two-third of this book, but I got a little restless toward the end.

Donavan craves to submit, but at 6 foot something and over 200 pounds, he doesn't feel like a sub. Then he meets a man at Pride who throws his world out of alignment. Seth is much smaller than Donavan, but he's all Dom. He likes to take charge and be in control, and Donavan melts at Seth's touch.

Override is a VERY sexy book, but it's more rough sex than BDSM. There is a flogging scene and some fun with toys, but nothing about the MCs screamed Dom/sub to me. My favorite steamy scene happened in a BDSM club where Donavan and Seth role play, and it's Seth who submits. That kind of power flipping really works for me.

Donavan's POV filters the majority of the story (we get a few scenes from Seth's perspective), and he's a well-rounded character. Donavan is seven years younger than Seth and works at a factory. He doesn't have a college degree, nor does he make a lot of money.

Seth, on the other hand, is all white collar. He's a doctor who drives a fancy car and spends more on one meal than Seth makes in a day. Donavan feels insecure at times, wondering what Seth sees in him, but Seth makes it very clear that Donavan is a gift he wants to keep.

Seth is a nice guy, but I didn't fully get him as a person. He's an Ob/Gyn, yet he never talks about his job, never seems to be on call. We get a good sense of what Donavan does for work (we even see him interact with his douche of a boss), but Seth feels like he's high on a pedestal somewhere.

I liked Donavan's best friend Cain, who's hilarious and far too interested in Donavan's sex life for a straight boy. The last couple chapters played up a few secondary characters, including Cain and Seth's cousin Tristan, as potential MCs in the series (an excerpt for book 2 is included, and it seems darker and angstier than this story).

The ending is a totes feel-good HEA. I would have preferred more tension or a conflict of some kind, but I'm not going to complain too much. The sexy times were smoldering, and I'm a fan of SJD Peterson's writing style.

Definitely recommended for fans of BDSM-lite who prefer a less intense read.
Profile Image for Tanu Gill.
575 reviews266 followers
April 16, 2017
Ugh. This is a case of amazing blurb, lacklustre execution.



When I read the blurb, I was quite excited to read a BDSM-themed romance. But the story was more on the BDSM side and less on the romance side. The start of the book is purely BDSM-heavy, so much so that I started second-guessing my choice of book. And then there is no romance or emotional development. Seth and Donavan have sex regularly and feel affected by how much their partner has taken over their thoughts and fathom themselves in love!





As I always mention in my reviews, I always look for some serious and detailed romance development. Insta-love has to be written pretty believably for me to approve of it. But this one was just impossible! There were many sweet moments, but I couldn't make sense of how fast they were jumping ahead, from being attracted from first sight to falling head over heels, all in the space of two-three dates! And I couldn't get a proper read on both the MCs' characterisations. And the major issue was Donavan's blind trust in Seth right from the beginning. I wouldn't trust anyone with my nightmares or fears after two dates!

Profile Image for Gigi.
2,148 reviews1,069 followers
September 1, 2016
3.5 stars

To fully enjoy a M/M BDSM novel (of which there are very few I actually love) there needs to be two main elements:


1. There needs to be passion and a connection between the partners. Examples of wonderful passion and romance filled BDSM books include Bound by Lies, Power Exchange and Load the Dice: The Complete Series.

2. The Dom cannot treat the sub like a child (unless it is part of their particular kink) and the sub cannot act like a child. Examples of childish, gossiping, subs with little to no ability to think outside their relationship with their Dom are Cisco's Boy, Dom of Ages and Reaching the Edge.


With Override, we are off to a great start as far as my preferences are concerned! It has two lovely men, one a big, brawny auto worker named Donovan who is interested in exploring his submissive side, and the other a physically slight, beautiful OBGYN name Seth who is a fair and kinky Dom. They meet at a Pride event, do a public scene together and are soon in an exclusive D/s relationship. Their sex scenes are blisteringly hot and filled with comfort and explanation and understating, passion and eventually love. No one is treated like a child. Donovan is not dumbed-down to a meat-head mentality and the economic differences between the men become a non-issue. Perfect!

"Open your mouth.”

Donavan gladly did and stuck out his tongue as well. The first brush of Seth’s cock against his tongue sent a thrill racing down Donavan’s spine. As it pushed past his lips, he moaned at the musky flavor, slightly bitter, intoxicating, completely Seth. Seth tightened his hold on Donavan’s hair.

“Suck it.”




But, I hate to say it... It was TOO perfect. There were no fights, no anger, no meddling friends, no scorned ex-lovers, no physical peril, no homophobic family members, no breakups and no tension. Hey, I love a good, flat-out no-angst sugary sweet M/M romance as much as the next sap who mood-reads, but this is SDJ Peterson, and kinky-as-fuck BDSM and look at that motherfucking cover! I really needed a flaw or two with these characters. SOMETHING! I just wasn't satisfied in the end. It may be my mood or my built-up exceptions, but I didn't love this one. I liked it, but I wanted to love it.



Some critiques:


1. The last 20% of the book was spent introducing us to characters that will be in the future books in the series. Since I was disappointed in Seth and Donovan's too perfect relationship, I was hoping for at least a lovers spat or something at that point. But it was just all future character introductions.

2. The book stopped at 89%. There is a special section at the end highlighting the next book in the series, which I love and is greatly appreciated, but I am one who watches how close I am to the end so this threw me off a little. I hope it helps some of you that also like to keep track.


I do eagerly await the second book and hope these two new men have a few obstacles thrown in their path. We'll see!

Recommended to those that want a no-angst BDSM romance.

Galley copy of Override provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.

This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews


Profile Image for Karen.
1,860 reviews90 followers
August 28, 2016
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 because you guessed it still no 1/2 stars here on GR maybe it wasn't a 4 star read for me but it was definitely closer to 4 than 3.

What I was expecting and what I got...not the same thing. Interestingly enough the first line of the blurb for this book is "Don't judge a book by it's cover..." can I just say "How totally appropriate this is." because based on the title and the cover I was expecting something a little darker, edgier, grittier with maybe a little more angst...not what I got. Now am I bothered by this...not really because I still got to read a really good story one that I totally enjoyed.

So now you know what I was expecting let me tell you about what I got. I got a story about two men looking for what most of us look for at some point in our lives...someone we can connect too, feel complete with...you guessed it 'the L word'. Donavan is a big guy. He's tall and hours in the gym and working in a factory have given him a pretty impressive set of muscles...he's totally a dominant...not...and that's his problem people look at him and assume he's a take charge sort of guy. At least that's what most people assume, not so much with Seth.

Seth is older, smaller and more than willing to take charge. He knows what he wants and he usually gets it. One look at Donavan and Seth wants...wants so many things that he thought were beyond even him. Things that he'd buried his hope for long ago, but Donavan's re-ignited that hope and Seth is sure that what he and Donavan could have together would complete them both if he can just make Donavan see himself the way Seth does.

I have to admit stories like this can be so hit or miss for me and as much as I like this author initially I was leery about how this would go. Somewhere around 40% I was pretty sure I needed more story with my sex so for me the first part of the book was maybe 3 stars at best but I was determined to have faith and as I kept reading I found my story. It wasn't the one I was expecting but it turned out to be one that I enjoyed none the less. I realized that I was really invested in these two men. I was totally enjoying them together. There were no huge stumbling blocks, over the top misunderstandings or long drawn out angst-fest. Instead what I found was a sweet story about two men exploring a mutual attraction and discovering a bond that was strong enough to build a life together on. There was still lots of sex and while it was definitely on the rough side at times there was always an underlying sweetness to it because it went from sex with caring to sex with love.

One of the things that drew me in with this story was that the emotional growth wasn't forced and didn't feel like it was being shoved at me. Seth and Donavan's feelings for each other were just there, they evolved as a natural part of the story as the relationship progressed. What started out as a mutual attraction and a bit of insta-lust progressed to mutual caring and finally to love. In some ways it was a bit on the fast side but it felt right and with these two men it worked. Mostly because it was more on Seth's side and Seth's nature was such that he wasn't a procrastinator he was the type of man who knew what he wanted when he saw it and went after it. While Donavan took a little more time to think things over. He wasn't necessarily more hesitant to commit to the relationship, but he was slower to admit to how he truly felt.

'Override' is the first book in SJD Peterson's new series 'The Underground Club' and was an unexpectedly low angst, sweet and not the sugary shoot-me-now kind of sweet but a heartwarming and enjoyable kind that also introduces us to some wonderful secondary characters from Donavan and Seth's awesome parents to the MCs that will be in book #2 which I am definitely looking forward to along with holding onto the hope that some of the the other characters from this first book will appear in later stories because like Donavan I really want to know what's going on between Cain, Donavan's best friend and Seth's cousin, Tristan. There's definitely more than meets the eye happening there and Seth's twin brothers, Samuel and Christopher also offer some interesting potential.

So maybe 'Override' wasn't quite the story that I was expecting but it was definitely a story that I enjoyed and made this a series that I look forward to continuing.

********************
A copy of 'Override' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for .Lili. .
1,275 reviews276 followers
August 24, 2016
This book was not what I was expecting.



I was expecting angst and heavy BDSM. Instead, it was the polar opposite. Sometimes when a book isn't what we envisioned, it can work against it but for me, it worked out great.

*whispers* You see I admit I'm not big into BDSM.

You're probably shaking your head asking yourself- why read it then?

For three reasons:

1. THE COVER. I freely admit to being a cover whore, and this cover is gorgeous.

2. SJD

3. The blurb. I was interested in reading about a couple that fits in a way that we don't expect.

Why it worked for me:

-Low angst. There's no big drama here. It's a simple story of two men falling in love. A slice of life type book.

-BDSM. I didn't think it was "BDSMy"- maybe a couple of things here and there. If you're not giving this book a try because of the BDSM aspect, I don't think you should worry about it.

-I enjoyed the characters- both the protagonists and supporting cast.

-The romance was sweet.

-The sex was hot.

-And it ends with a solid HEA.

It all just kind of fit my mood. I needed some book TLC, and that's what I got. While reading it felt like I was engulfed in my favorite fleece blanket with some hot cocoa. It was very much a comfort read.

If you're looking for a "kick in the stomach" type angst, this is not the book for you. If you're not in the mood to have your heart stomped on and need a sweet, steamy pick me up give this one a go! 4 Stars.



ARC kindly provided by Dreamspinner Press to Gay Book Reviews for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jaime.
1,804 reviews310 followers
August 10, 2016
A super sweet book with a HEA and great start to new series

This is the story of a man, Donovan Gregory, who wants to explore his submisive side. He is used to always being consideres the large and in charge man due to his height and muscles - but what he really wants is to be on his knees for a man who can Master him.

Seth Manning, he is a Dominant with a capital D - and just because he is under 6 ft tall and isn't full of muscles, he knows how to bring even the biggest man under control. When he sees Donovan watching a BDSM display at Pride he knows that the man he is admiring is something special and he wants nothing more than to Dominate him.

Donovan is drawn to Seth, yet he thinks he isn't good enough for him and when they go out on their first date, sparks ignite quickly between the two and passion is high..


“You’re not quite sure yet how to take me, are you?” Seth remarked.
“That’s the understatement of the year.”

...

“So when you’re onstage or wherever you are tying up men, what do you like to be called?”
“Sir, and if the boy belongs to me, then I prefer Master. I have no issues with leather daddies, but I’m not really into leather unless it’s at the end of my flogger or whip. I prefer the term Dom.”
“As in Dominant?”
“Very much so. Have you ever had a dominant lover, Donavan?”
“No.”
“Would you like one?” The way Seth asked the question, his voice low and husky, sent a shiver racing down Donavan’s spine. He was held captive by those brown eyes again, his body thrumming with a dark desire Seth was pulling from deep within him. “Yes,” he admitted. Seth’s hand landed on Donavan’s leg again, those long fingers teasing his inner thigh, moving upward. His eyes fluttered closed, and a low moan escaped him when Seth ran his palm over Donavan’s hard cock. Seth leaned in closer. “Let me take you home ,” he whispered against Donavan’s ear, sending another shudder ripping through him. Donavan didn’t even hesitate with his response. “You can take me anywhere you wish.”




From that moment on, Donovan's fantasy of submitting becomes very much reality and these two men fall into a quick and easy relationship. There is little angst in this story, everything just sorta works out for the two - no real conflict, no real drama - just two out and proud gay men exploring their sexuality and enjoying each other while falling in love.

The BDSM elements of the story were not what took up the full story, yes they were there, yes Donovan called Seth Sir - but that was just one facet of their relationship, and while Donovan wish to explore may be what brought the two together, they end up staying together because they fall in love.

Overall, a solid 4 stars - low angst - Romantic BDSM Story with a HEA and a look into our next characters - can't wait for book 2!

❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*Review Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
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Profile Image for Jewel.
1,940 reviews279 followers
November 5, 2016
3.5 Stars

Override is sweet, sexy and low angst. And I knew there was little to no angst going in, but I am still very much trained to look for it, so I kept expecting something to happen. But, nope, the story is sweet from beginning to end.

I liked the story, quite a lot, but I think I would have liked it more if there had been some sort of conflict. Wouldn't have to be angst for the sake of angst, mind you, but something. I enjoyed both MC's and loved that they found each other. And, I loved that Seth, who has more education and is a doctor, never treated Donavan, who is a factory worker, as anything other than an equal (when the D/s wasn't coming into play). There definitely could have been some issues there and while I would have loved some conflict, I'm glad that wasn't used. I also loved loved loved the scene where they switched roles. That Seth would want that, being a Dom, I found refreshing and more than satisfying.

The friends and family members, I have to say, I found a little too good to be true, though. Everyone was so damn happy, it was a little like reading The Brady Bunch. Coming from my background, it's hard to imagine, but I know there are families out there that actually get along and like each other. But, for me, that's so unreal. But I digress…

If you're looking for sweet, sexy and low angst, with a side of BDSM-lite, read Override.
Profile Image for *J* Too Many Books Too Little Time.
1,921 reviews3,718 followers
September 6, 2016
3.5 Stars!

This one just okay for me.

I'd call it BDSM-lite. Nothing my vanilla heart couldn't handle.

I found some of the dialogue to be on the cheesy side.

I also found it to be pretty insta-lust and insta-love. Both of which kept me from really loving this one. Or even liking it a lot.

The writing was pretty good. And I will say the sex was hot. But I'm not so sure I'll continue on with this series.
Profile Image for Chelsea.
979 reviews7 followers
September 12, 2016
4 hearts

I think because my taste for BDSM focused stories tends to run on the darker side, I find it hard to equate absolute fluffiness with BDSM. I now can do that with no issue, because it was done absolutely perfectly here!

We follow Seth, a 33 year old doctor who is a well established Dom, and Donovan, a 25 year old factory worker who is currently exploring his submissive side, as they fall in love hard and fast. What drew me into this story was the fact the Donovan is a lot physically larger than Seth. Seth is far from effeminate, just lean and average height, compared to Donovan’s 6ft 2, 200lbs. It was hot, but I was pretty disappointed there was no over the knee spanking, that’s always a winner with a big sub.

“People expect a lot from you. Growing up, you were told big boys don’t cry. Because of your size, your friends looked at you as the protector. At work and play, you’re the guy who can handle anything, the go-to guy. You pride yourself on being able to help others, but deep down”— Seth teased his fingers across Donavan’s chest, down to his stomach but ignoring his cock—“ you want to let go. To hand that power of control to someone else. ”


The connection these two feel towards each other is immediate and encapturing, as they fall in love fast and without any issues. Despite the speed of their connection, it didn’t feel like insta-love. Maybe because the chemistry was palpable and based on more than just attraction, or possibly because they didn’t rush the progression of the relationship, and took things one step at a time. Whatever it was, it worked really well.

The BDSM scenes are very very light! There’s one flogging scene, but mostly it's about the dynamic of Dominant and Submissive. Even then, Seth and Donovan don’t want the lifestyle full-time, so they’re equals outside the bedroom, which ends up being the majority of the story.



They did feel more like a versatile couple, one just preferring to bottom more often. There was one particularly hot scene which had me salivating slightly, it was one of my favourite kinks, role-playing!!! Yum yum!

I like my fluff books to have a teeny tiny bit of conflict, preferably from outside the relationship. If they don’t have any, I find the story starts to drag. While this book didn’t feel like a fluff overload, it became dangerously close and it may have been too much if it had gone for much longer.

Highly recommended for people who aren’t too sure about BDSM, but want just a smidge of dominating in the bedroom on top of a sweet love story.


Profile Image for Josy.
992 reviews3 followers
September 12, 2016
~3.5 stars~

I finished this book 10 days ago and it's probably not a good sign that I can't remember much now that I write my review. Or maybe it's just my dysfunctional memory that is acting up here and causes me to rely on my notes.

I was really excited to read this book and I enjoyed it while reading but I like my books grittier and with more tension than this one. But this is purely personal taste so if you like your stories sweet and without much angst than this one might be the perfect book for you. For me, it was more rough sex than BDSM and there is only one scene I remember clearly. Both MCs visit a BDSM club and while role playing they also switch their Dom / sub roles.

Donavan is a tall, well-built guy who wants to explore his submissive side despite thinking that because of his size it's not possible for him until he meets Seth, a well-known Dom, who offers to do a bonding scene with him during a Pride event. The connection between them is instantaneous and they quickly develop deeper feelings for each other but it didn't feel too insta-lovey to me. Maybe because Donovan is hesitant to move forward too fast despite his feelings.

Overall, this was a sweet, well-written story with lots of communication, patience, good sexy times, and heartwarming emotions.
Profile Image for Debra ~~ seriously slacking on her reviews ~~.
2,235 reviews260 followers
August 31, 2016
Review originally posted at Sinfully.

3.5 stars


Donavan may seem dominant at first look, a factory worker and 6 foot plus of pure muscle, but he has the heart of a submissive. Seth, on the other hand, is his opposite in many ways, older, smaller, highly educated and thrilled at the thought of being able to dominate such a big and powerful man. When they meet at Pride, Seth notices Donavan watching the submissive during a demonstration and offers to give Seth the chance to submit. From that moment on, the two are drawn to each other and quickly find themselves in a relationship where Donavan has the freedom to explore everything he’s dreamed of and Seth is willing to give him any experience he wants.

I have to say this novel turned out to be different than I anticipated, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. I really liked how flexible Seth and Donavan were with the BDSM aspect of their relationship, how they wove it in naturally to meet both their needs without it taking over all aspects of their time together. Seth is more concerned with Donavan feeling comfortable and being happy and isn’t interested in keeping up his image at the club, not that he’s going to let Donavan go unpunished though. These two men are sexy as anything together and they certainly do like to mix things up and keep it interesting.

The BDSM is on the light side with some bondage and flogging, but there is a more playful side to it that is all down to the personalities of the two men. Seth is not a strict, bad-ass Dom (their hot role-playing scene is a great example) though he has his moments and certainly knows how to get the best out of Donavan. Donavan is just learning what he likes and is a willing student. The two have good communication, a lot of chemistry and the sex gets down and dirty but their relationship is very much on the sweeter side of things.

I had only one real issue with the story. As I was reading I kept waiting for some bit of conflict or a challenge to come up between them, but the relationship went very smoothly and was almost too easy. There were no bumps in the road in Donavan learning to submit or in them falling in love or into each other's lives. Other than a bit of insecurity on Donavan’s part relating to Seth’s education and wealth, there isn't anything the men have to overcome. I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, I’m just saying it was unexpected on my part given the nature of Donavan’s inexperience and the way they jumped right into things.

Aside from that, SJD Peterson’s writing flows well and the story contained some humor courtesy of Donavan’s best friend Cain who, for a straight man, is a bit too interested in Donavan’s love life. His budding friendship with Seth’s cousin Tristan was entertaining and perhaps fodder for a future story. There is also a brief introduction to the two men who will be the subject of the next story, which seems like it will have a more serious tone.

The strength of Override is definitely the strong and steady connection between Seth and Donavan and their growing romance. Anyone who likes an angst-free love story with a little bit of kink will enjoy this and I’ll be looking forward to the next one.

description
Profile Image for Tamika♥RBF MOOD♥.
1,224 reviews146 followers
August 16, 2016
3.5 stars



This was sugary sweet fluff. I keep referring to it as BDSM Lite!!! It's not a bad thing, it was the opposite of what I was expecting that's all. Super sweet, low angst, feel good story. Nothing here to complain about folks just keep it pushing!

Sure we got the vice versus switch of the mc physical stands on BDSM. We have Donovan who from all appearances looks like a top, a Dom and wouldn't have a submissive bone in his body. This is where looks clearly are deceiving folks. He's craving to submit to someone but clearly scared. A golden opportunity is given to him at Pride one day. There he meets Seth. At first glance Seth doesn't look the part of what Donovan things a Dom should.

From here on it it's smooth sailing for the couple. It's no miscommunication, and they clearly speak about what they both want and feel for each other. I didn't think it was BDSM. It's basically sex but rougher then what some would want. I think that aspect could been dismissed from the tags and it's just a contemporary story.

I don't think I know Seth that well as a character as Donovan. We have multiple interactions with Donovan at his job and with his friend, and in his head alot. I kinda labelled Seth as coming off mysterious because outside of what he says about his family and friends we only see him.

This is a pretty straight forward sugary sweet mess. The end features cast from upcoming books I'm sure. We'll see more of these guys I'm sure. If you are in the mood for a low angst, fluffy book then this is right for you!
Profile Image for Makhda.
877 reviews146 followers
September 3, 2016
3.5 stars

Fluffy BDSM book. Although I do like it more if it's lil bit 'rough'. But I still liked this one. It was so sweet and nice. Thank god, it's not making me nauseous. I'm more interested with Cain and Tristan's story. Unfortunately the next book is going to be another MC's.
Profile Image for Vallie.
707 reviews78 followers
August 30, 2016
Yowza!

Join this sweet bdsm-inspired pornganza and you WILL NOT be disappointed!

I am picky with BDSM these days. I used to go through the GR lists and read everything above 2 stars. Having had my fair share of crapctacular pseudo BDSM wannabe novels, some super harcore scene after scene ones, and whatever is in the middle, I am happy to say this one was a win!

Hot sex with over-abundance of dirty-talk –although I’m not a fan of the Dom calling his sub “boy” - was just what the doctor ordered. I liked the juxtaposition of Seth as a Dom with Donavan being this massive beast of a man who wanted to submit and could not find a Dom worth his salt to look beyond the physical. They were scorching hot together and Donavan being so insecure and super apologetic for every single freaking thing was adorable.

If you’re looking for the kink master, this isn’t it. Not exactly BDSM wannnabe, because the D/S tone in Seth and Donavan’s relationship was just right IMO this was a story about two men meeting their sexual match in every way and discovering a loving life partner alongside that as well. This was all no drama-rama, no fights, not silly miscommunications, and very BDSM-lite.

Like Gigi said in her review , the story ends at 89-90% and the last part of the book is spent introducing the characters who will star in the sequel so be prepared. This is a smooth, uninterrupted ride in all the ways. No waves –just a steady relationship being sexually explored over and over and over again. Win win!

Pick this up, it is worth a read!

Recommend!

ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. See this review on Gay Book Reviews.
Profile Image for Ele.
1,319 reviews40 followers
January 17, 2017
Christmas gift from the lovely Christelle. Thank you:D
Profile Image for Christelle.
808 reviews
December 28, 2016
2 nice and lovable characters. Donovan is a sweet guy, a good friend, a blue collar, works hard, has a body to die for, and wants to explore some submissive sex. Seth is a doctor, is close to his loving family, and very confident in his sexuality and his dominant side.
Both are what they are looking for in a relationship. It’s sweet, sexy, hot, with a touch of BDSM, and no angst at all.
I was not swooned, but I enjoyed it in overall.

PS : Thank you so much, Smutty Elf for this nice gift. Happy Holidays :-)
Profile Image for Saimi Vasquez.
1,955 reviews93 followers
July 24, 2022
Donovan trabaja en la fabrica de autos local, pero siempre ha tenido una fascinacion con los chicos "de-cuero", y cuando participa en una demostracion de bondage en el Dia del Orgullo Gay, no puede mas que estar encantado con la sensacion que le causo el estar a merced del Dom, y quiere explorar mas. Por supuesto, esa exploracion tambien tiene que ver con lo Hot que esta el Dom, asi que cuando se le presenta la oportunidad salen en una cita que lo llevo a mas, y que le abrio una infinidad de posiblidades a su mente, ademas de una gran oportunidad de estar con ese hombre y ver hasta donde puede llevar una relacion entre ellos.
Seth es medico gineco-obstetra, pero tambien es Dom, una cualidad que no ha explorado con un compañero fijo en mucho tiempo. Asi que cuando ve a este hombre musculoso, atraido hacia la demostracion que estan haciendo de bondage, decide dar un paso enfrente y hacerle sentir lo bueno que puede ser darle el control. Pero una demostracion los lleva a una cita, y a explorar mucho mas su lado Dominante con este nuevo compañero, y quizas pueda ser mas que eso si solo se dieran la oportunidad.

El libro es sencillo, con un buen desarrollo de los personajes, hasta aproximadamente el 75% donde todo se apura para terminar. Me gustaron mucho las personalidades de los personajes, como se va desarrollando la relacion poco a poco, tambien me diverti muchisimo con la relacion Donovan-Cain, y con los hermanos de Seth. La trama en si no tiene muchas complicaciones, pero es una buena ventana para presentar algunos personajes interesantes que pueden estar en el resto de la serie.
En fin, me llamo mucho la atencion el universo, quiero ver como se desenvuelve y que otros personajes van a ser incluidos en la serie, y si volveran a aparecer alguno de este libro, asi que voy a continuar con la lectura.
Profile Image for Mathilda Grace.
510 reviews
December 11, 2018
Ich kenne die »Guards of Folsom«-Reihe der Autorin und hatte mich daher auf ein neues Buch in dieselbe Richtung gefreut, aber leider kann »Überwältigt« für mich nicht mal ansatzweise mit den Folsom-Jungs mithalten.

Dabei beginnt die Geschichte um Donavan und Seth durchaus interessant und machte Lust auf mehr, und es gab auch immer wieder kleine, wunderbar romantische Momente zwischen den beiden, wo mir beim Lesen das Herz aufging. Aber leider waren die in der Unterzahl, dafür gab es Sex, Sex, Sex und noch mal Sex. Himmel hilf. Ich hätte mir lieber mehr Inhalt gewünscht, denn dann wären die Charaktere für mich vielleicht nicht so oberflächlich und nichtssagend geblieben.

Die Geschichte bleibt nicht im Gedächtnis und selbst jetzt, beim Schreiben dieser Review, muss ich schon überlegen, was ich da eigentlich gelesen habe, weil der Inhalt nicht fesselt und mehr vom Sex lebt als von allem anderen. Schade, aber mir war das einfach zu wenig.

Ich vergebe 2 Sterne für den guten Anfang und die an sich sympathischen Charaktere, auch wenn sie mich am Ende nicht überzeugen. Keine Leseempfehlung.
Profile Image for Gabis Laberladen.
1,240 reviews
December 11, 2018
Für die englische Version: 4 Sterne
Für die deutsche Übersetzung leider nur 2-3

Darum geht's:

Donavan ist groß und muskulös, aber er träumt davon, sich einem Dom unterzuordnen, auch wenn man das angesichts seines imposanten Äußeren nicht unbedingt erwarten würde. Als er zufällig auf einer Pride Parade Seth kennenlernt und der an Donavan seine Fesselkünste demonstriert, ist Donavan hin und weg. Seth sieht gut aus und ist so bestimmend und selbstsicher, wie Donavan das gerne mag. Doch ein Fabrikarbeiter wie er und ein wohlhabender Arzt wie Seth - kann das gut gehen?

Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
Profile Image for Risa.
448 reviews4 followers
December 13, 2018
Auf den 1. Band der neuen Underground-Club Serie von SJD Peterson war ich schon gespannt.

Zur Handlung. Seth und Donovan lernen sich zufällig auf einem Pride kennen. Der dominante Seth erkennt Donovans unterwürfige Seite und ermutigt ihn, seine Traumfantasien auszuprobieren. Seth ist allerdings nicht nur auf der Suche nach einem Sub fürs Spielzimmer, sondern auch nach einem Partner auf Augenhöhe. Genau das ist für den Fabrikarbeiter Donovan ein Problem, der er kann sich nicht vorstellen, wie das funktionieren soll, denn schließlich ist Seth ein angesehener Gynäkologe.

Diese Zweifel teile ich mit ihm, denn in der gesamten Story lassen sich kaum Gemeinsamkeiten, außer ihrer gemeinsamen Vorliebe für einige BDMS-Praktiken erkennen. Sicher mit ein Grund dafür, dass die beiden mich als Paar nicht überzeugen konnten. Leider erfährt man auch fast nichts über Seths beruflichen Alltag.
Da waren die Nebencharaktere schon wesentlich sympathischer. Besonders Donovans Freund Cain sorgt für so manche amüsante Szene. Ich hoffe, dass er und Tristan in den nächsten Bänden eine eigene Geschichte erhalten.

Die Story erhält von mir 4 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung.

Mein Dank geht an Dreamspinner Press für das erhaltene Rezensionsexemplar.
Profile Image for Christy.
4,430 reviews127 followers
March 26, 2019
3.5 Stars ~ You can't begin to imagine my excitement when I discovered that SJD Peterson was writing a new BDSM series! I have been waiting to get down and dirty and meet the men who will make up 'The Underground Club'. The description and the cover certainly yanked my chain!

I really liked both Donovan and Seth right from the beginning and that's a little unusual for me. Most of the time one character will really grab me and then the other one sneaks up, but here I enjoyed both men right off the bat. Donovan is twenty-five and works on an assembly line. He's a good guy who has dreams of submitting and he struggles with those feelings since he's a large, muscle-bound guy. Seth is thirty-two and an obgyn medical doctor. He's a bit of an enigma which made me like him even more. He's a doctor, he drives a Mercedes, and yet his house is about the same size as Donovan's. He can wear a suit, casual chic, or dress down like he's still in college. And his personality is very much the same. These two clicked right from the start and it was fun to watch.

I've got to be honest here. Having read almost all of this author's works, I was having my doubts at the middle of the book because everything seemed so perfect and flawless in this beginning relationship of Seth and Donovan's. Where was the angst? Where were the issues? Well, I found them. I hadn't guessed that Donovan was one to over-think and over-analyze something to death, not to mention his insecurities regarding their differing socioeconomic status. I could certainly understand it because Donovan doesn't want a sugar daddy, he wants to be equals outside of the bedroom. Not to mention this is Donovan's first real relationship so he has nothing to compare it to. Plus he's completely new to the BDSM lifestyle. It was definitely interesting to watch Donovan learn submission from the ground up, so to speak.

I definitely didn't feel 'Override' as much as I have Jo's other works. I'm sure the fault lies with me and my expectations. It's nice to see an author step out of their norm, but I suppose I was looking for more gritty and less happy. Okay, I know. I'm weird. Who doesn't enjoy a lovely, nice, romance with hot sex, two main characters who are both very likable, and a happy ever after? *quietly grumbling* Me, I guess. All is not lost however. There were several excellent secondary characters and the sneak peek at book two seems to show I could get the grit I'm jonesing for!

NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
Profile Image for Mirjam.
1,890 reviews112 followers
April 1, 2019

“I don’t want to be with anyone but you, and I really, really don’t want you seeing anyone but me.”

This was not what I expected, not at all. This book is part of The Underground Club and I wanted to, together with Donavan, explore him becoming a submissive. I was expecting more BDSM scenes. And the one that were describes were quite tame, that I could understand giving that Donavan was being initiated.

This was just a sweet story about two men, Dr. Seth Manning, 32 (the Dominant) & Donavan Gregory, 25 (the submissive). They meet during Pride, where Seth does a short, fully clothed, rope bondage session with Donavan and afterwards asks Donavan to call him. There is an instant & strong attraction between them and they decide to explore what it is that's between them.



Donavan is an adorable, everyday kind of guy. He works the assembly line in a factory, spends time with his straight best-buddy Cain, at the gym, playing poker with some other friends and hanging out and has an awesome mother who he adores.
Seth's family is rich and accomplish. He has great siblings, supportive parents and an awesome cousin who has the hots for Cain.

Besides some pretty hot sex this is just a really nice romance. I would have loved if it had more BDSM scenes at the Underground Club.
“You should know better than to think I would turn down dessert without a damn good reason.”



The book ends with the first chapter of the next book and I do think that book will have the BDSM that I missed in this one. Looking forward to that.
O, and I know every parent decides what their child's name will be, but really Donavan?? What's wrong with Donovan?? Writer's prerogative, I suppose.

Part of a series that is best enjoyed when read in order:
Override (The Underground Club, #1) by S.J.D. Peterson Limitless (The Underground Club, #2) by S.J.D. Peterson The Edge (The Underground Club, #3) by S.J.D. Peterson

The Erogenous Zone Book of the Month Nov 2016
Profile Image for Rachel Emily.
4,467 reviews378 followers
November 14, 2016
This was a sexy, kinky, lovely story between two men that was pretty much angst-free and drama-free. I really enjoyed Donavan and Seth and their instant chemistry together.

I always like it when there are stories where the "norms" aren't the norm, so here we had the big, beefy man who wanted to explore his submissive side, rather than a dominant one. And Seth is smaller in height, but definitely dominant in bed. Their time together is loving, caring, and they are equals in their relationship. Things moved fast, but it felt right for them with the connection they had from their first meeting.

This was kinky fluff, and I just loved reading it! A feel good story that helped cheer me up after this crazy week we've just had.
Profile Image for ⚣Michaelle⚣.
3,662 reviews233 followers
February 19, 2017
3.6 Stars

Surprisingly fluffy given the blurb/summary. Also, lacked any kind of plot conflict/action...oddly enough the sex was kind of vanilla, too - even with the flogging, shibari & roleplay. (Okay, that scene was hot.)

The best part was the big, butch beefcake becoming the bottom boy of someone much smaller and slighter. That will never not be a favorite trope. Otherwise the book was just...meh? for the most part.

I didn't read the sneak peak for the next installment because (given the short scene setting it up in this story) that one doesn't look like a similar walk in the park and if I choose to read it I want to go in mostly spoiler free!
Profile Image for Mimi.
2,456 reviews
October 28, 2017
3.75 stars



It has been awhile since I've read an S.J.D. Peterson book. It was like rekindling with a long lost friend. Great story and enjoyed the secondary characters especially Tristan and Cain. The end of the last chapter through me for a loop. The discussion between Sean, Nash and Malcolm about Joshua was I feel ill placed and could have been woven seamlessly some place else as a tie in for the second book.
Profile Image for Lisa.
3,511 reviews139 followers
November 6, 2016
Its great to read a book with no angst in it.
Donovan meets Seth at Pride and the 2 meet again for dinner and decide to explore a realtionship.
Donovan, although the larger of the men is keen to learn about his submissive side.
I like the story that follows. A great cast of supporting characters who I can't wait to read more about.
Profile Image for Teri.
1,801 reviews
January 29, 2017
I liked this okay, I didn't feel as emotionally connected to the characters as I would have liked but the writing was fine and the MCs were good. Hope something comes of Cain and Tristan, I will be reading the next.
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,899 reviews115 followers
September 17, 2016
Just couldn't get into it. I found the beginning a little choppy and I didn't engage with the characters. Not for me.
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