4.5 -- Wager -- stars
Let me start with saying that this book isn’t about BDSM. There is some light BDSM, but it’s not the focus of the book. Gagged is about psychological bondage. Aurora doesn’t dare to say what she thinks and doesn’t do anything wrong even if she could enjoy it. But I love the cover and title, because they fit Aurora and Caspian’s story.
Aurora is an amateur photographer and a college student. She wants children to have the best education they can have. She noticed that some schools don’t use technology and she blames Caspian for that. Aurora’s friend may interview Caspian, but Caspian makes her wait. When Aurora sees him at a coffee shop, while he should be with her friend, she confronts him. Caspian reacts cool and invites her to join him for the rest of the interview. Aurora hesitates, but follows him in the end. That interview will lead to more meetings and will change both their lives forever.
Aubrey Parker delivers again! I’ve read all her books and I’m also curious to see what she writes next. I’m a fan! The Trevor’s Harem series and this book are very unique. They are about more than romance. I never know what to expect and she surprises me each time. While reading Gagged, I was constantly wondering what was going to happen next.
I wanted to know more about Caspian since meeting him in the Trevor’s Harem series. If you liked that series, you will definitely love this novel. Gagged is also twisted and steamy. Caspian has a plan and I loved finding that out. I was definitely intrigued by him. He’s a successful businessman. He’s strong, tall and muscular. He knows what he wants and he will get that. I would have loved to hate him sometimes, but in the end I fell in love with him.
Aurora is a passionate, strong and shy woman. Something happened to her as a child and this still influences her life. Caspian makes her realize several things and sometimes pushes her. Aurora pulls Caspian out of his comfort zone and breaks down his walls. She’s perfect for him for many reasons, just like he is for her.
The secondary characters are great. Jasmine is the best friend of Aurora. They live together and would do everything for each other. They are loyal to each other. Jasmine has a connection with James. There’s something odd about him, but James and Jasmine belong together. Lucy is Caspian’s little sister. She loves her brother and they work together. Her book is next and I’m happy about that. I really adored her.
I just wished I felt Caspian’s love for Aurora sooner. Caspian was too focused on proving he’s right and the wager. I understand why he did that and he mentioned he felt that Aurora was special, but I need more feelings. Aurora made it more clear that she liked him, even if it felt wrong, and eventually loved him.
-- ARC provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! --