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Submissive #10

The Flirtation

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New York Times bestselling author Tara Sue Me is back with a scorching new romance--tenth in the Submissive series.

Lynne has not wanted for anything since she began working as Nathaniel and Abby's nanny--until the night they invite her to a group BDSM meeting. The abrupt breakup she had with her last Dom made her turn her back on the lifestyle, but now she's ready to dive back in. When she starts chatting on online BDSM message boards, she's shocked to discover Simon, her former Dom, is a frequent poster--and even more shocked at herself when she creates a secret identity and strikes up a conversation.

After messaging with a mysterious submissive online, Simon forms an immediate connection. Lynne and Simon's D/s relationship grows in intensity, but can their relationship survive after the truth is exposed, and Lynne's identity is laid bare?

INCLUDES A BONUS NOVELLA

271 pages, Paperback

First published August 8, 2017

79 people are currently reading
1739 people want to read

About the author

Tara Sue Me

71 books2,849 followers

NEW YORK TIMES/USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

Even though she graduated with a degree in science, Tara knew she’d never be happy doing anything other than writing. Specifically, writing love stories.

She started with a racy BDSM story and found she was not quite prepared for the unforeseen impact it would have. Nonetheless, she continued and The Submissive Series novels would go on to be both New York Times and USA Today Bestsellers. One of those, THE MASTER, was a 2017 RITA finalist for Best Erotic Romance.

Now she is focusing on new contemporary romances that allow her the freedom to write and publish on her own schedule.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
346 reviews917 followers
August 20, 2017
***2.5 STARS***

Find this review and loads and loads and fun stuff at www.prettymessreading.com

Who’s ready for a little BDSM fun? I know I am. I’m not into BDSM in my personal sex life but I love reading about other people doing it. I may or may not be guilty of watching some a time or two.



I want to start by saying that I could not grasp a personal connection with the book. In all fairness, I have a pretty good reason behind it.

It’s written in the third person. That automatically creates a distance between the reader and the story.
The character’s personality was difficult to nail down because the writing was all over the place.
The female character lacked character development and was very weak-minded.
I know that many women in the BDSM world are very confident, self assured women and Lynne was not.

Simon was an okay Dom but not anything that made me excited. But, he also lacked the drive to fight for his way to get the woman he cares for. Considering the fact that less than a year ago, Simon breaks up with Lynne for reasons she is unaware of. A real Dom would not have done that, they would have maned up and said what they were feelings, IMO.

There were too many cliche, been there, done that, moments for me. The entire book was predictable. I found myself more invested in the side characters just to keep myself entertained. I was constantly felt like something was missing (Tara Sue Me should have asked me to beta read this book. We could have come up with a few more things.) I’m not 100% for sure what was missing but it is lacking. The were no EXPLOSIVE moments, no angst, no suspense, no bells and whistles, it was just there.



If you’ve read one or two BDSM books than you will most likely feel like you have read this one too. There wasn’t anything special about the book. I don’t know what the previous nine books were about, so I can’t say if they were better or worse than the others and this was was just a fluffed piece.

Let’s turn this around to some of the good points in the book. . .

Lynne had a very cute way of gaining Simon’s attention again after he drop her months ago like a sack of hot potatoes. She started to own her sexuality and accept the kink she was into. Even though her ways of getting Simon’s attention were kind of childish, that made for a decent storyline.

I loved that the author didn’t make Simon out to be this rich as hell man who commands everyone around him around. He was just a normal guy, with a normal job, with a normal heart. That was a refreshing change from the typical BDSM books. But, not to worry, as normal as he was, he had some sexy as sin kink in him.



All in all, it wasn’t a horrible read that I regret, which is good.

Do I recommend this book? No. I only recommend books that I connect to.

Will I read another book by this author? No. I don’t like reading books written in the third person.

Stalk all things messy. . .
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Profile Image for Geri Reads.
1,232 reviews2,135 followers
July 23, 2017
3.5 stars!

I loved the premise of this book. Lynne was new to BDSM but she had a Dom who she has a connection and a relationship with prior to the events of this book. But then her Dom, Simon, promptly ended their relationship and Lynne has been staying away from the scene after that. Until she found herself going back to an online BDSM community where she sees Simon again. So she created another identity and reached out to him and the story goes from there.

As I said I liked the premise. There's a lot of unresolved issues between Lynne and Simon. Lynne doesn't know why Simon pushed her away. The readers already know why but it takes a little bit of time before this was revealed to Lynne. So the book was basically about them recognizing that they are perfect for each other.

My complaint about this book was again the overdone cliched things. I won't go into spoiler territory but there was a particular plot point that just felt unnecessary and OTT to me. And it didn't really add much to the story. I also feel like Simon didn't really fight for her the way I wanted him to. The only reason they got back together again was because Lynne made the first move. I mean, he was willing to move on from Lynne and was developing feelings for her other identity. I felt like Lynne didn't really unpack what it meant. She was just so happy she got him back that she forgave him so easily.


ARC provided by the publisher
Profile Image for Chris  C - A Midlife Wife.
1,832 reviews463 followers
August 5, 2017
Pretty good with plenty of hot scenarios. 3.5 Stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It's been a while since I have read a good book with the topic of BDSM, so I was really looking forward to diving into the story.

This is the first time I've read this author and I was glad to see that this was very well written, well structured, and had an engaging plot. I'm a little torn as far as the story itself. Lynne was not straightforward and honest, which sets the story off a bit. A story built on a lie can be touchy.

Thankfully, that also was addressed in the book so it became kind of a non-issue - to a degree. There is some drama and interesting backstory. Apparently this is a part of a series and there are plenty of other characters to meet. But it's pretty easy to follow. I didn't feel lost at all.

While I enjoyed the story I did not feel an overwhelming connection between the characters. I really enjoyed Simon but there was little love passion between the two. Lynne and her ways rather bothered me. Lynne was apparently a newbie so the scenes of BDSM were rather light but well presented. The erotica was present but not over-the-top.

This book also included an extra story that has to do with the series as well and is a steamy little addition to the back story.

Overall, it was an entertaining read that I enjoyed. Some very hot scenes really made the book. Definitely an author I would read again.

* copy received for review consideration
Profile Image for Gretchen.
1,019 reviews152 followers
August 8, 2017
This was a hot, fun read! Simon and Lynne had a super entertaining story, great chemistry, a few ups and downs, and a lot of heat. I thoroughly enjoyed it!

I was immediately all in right from the beginning. I liked both Simon and Lynn and the situation Lynne created for herself. It was kind of crazy but super entertaining and I was pretty much waiting for that situation to implode. I really liked Simon, he was sweet, sexy, and oh so hot! I enjoyed Simon getting to know Lynne again and the connection they had. I enjoyed learning their histories as well and watching them them reconnect.

The writing was great with really good details. I was excited while reading. I liked the undertones of heat happening while everything was building. It was a fast past, hot story with a nice amount of drama mixed in. Steady throughout, enough character development to have me invested. I enjoyed the storyline even though Lynne created a stressful situation for herself. I like the dilemma that created for Simon however, it added a nice bit of tension. I loved the mention of some of the other couples from previous books, which makes me want to go back and read their stories. When everything blows up in Lynn's face, it was a bit anticlimactic for me but I still enjoyed it.

All in all I thought this was a great read. I loved the heat. The drama. The bits of crazy and intenseness. It was a solid second chance romance to lose myself in and can't wait for the next one!

Complimentary copy received for honest review.
Profile Image for Anna's Herding Cats.
1,274 reviews319 followers
June 21, 2017


Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tNZubT

Yay! Tara Sue Me! This lady can write some steamy good times! I've really loved the Submissive series. Sexy, passionate and full of delicious naughty fun. The Flirtation?..every bit of that.

The Gist: A while back Lynne and Simon had the startings of thing but then Simon suddenly bailed. He might have gotten a little scared. And neither ever really got over what they'd had. And now they're suddenly on each other's radar again, and, well, a flirtation starts up and leads to a whole lot more as they finally realize that, yes, their kinks? Totally rub along together nicely.

The Rave!

Lynne and Simon were great characters. I love second chance romances so I was on board right from the start. And these two had real nice chemistry. They were both easy to like and fun to spend time with.

It was nice seeing them get into their kinks, too, and figure that all out. He's a sadist, she's somewhat new to BDSM and figuring out where she lies on the spectrum. There were some super hot scenes in person and via the internet which was a real good time. Goodness, yeah. The heat in this one. Woo!

Something Tara Sue Me did that had me a little nervous was a trust issue. The heroine did something that was a HUGE no no in BDSM since trust is paramount in this type of relationship. I was getting a bit upset with the heroine on that but I will say that I liked how it was handled in the end. It wasn't just brushed off like it was noting and was dealt with and addressed. Nice to see that!

The Gripe:

Okay. So my reading experience wasn't perfect. Out of a 365 page book only 259 was actual new story. Which...really took me off guard. The book cover/blurb didn't say anything about it but there's a 'bonus' novella (previously released) included that makes up that extra 100+ pages. Which was really disappointing. Especially at the price of 9.99 for ebook and $16 for print. That's a very short story for that price.

The story felt like it needed more, too. Part of why I was so taken back by it ending so quickly. I enjoyed what I read but I really felt like another couple chapters would have helped show them really falling in love. As it was it felt a bit too fast from their 'big issue' to the happily ever after.

Overall, though. I enjoyed The Flirtation. I had a couple gripes but putting those aside I loved the couple, their journey and the steamy romance.
Profile Image for ~Mandi~.
281 reviews34 followers
July 23, 2017
The Flirtation
Submissive #10
Tara Sue Me

It's been awhile since I have read any of Tara Sue Me's work and she hasn't lost her skill. This was a great D/s story about Simon and Lynne.
This is book 10 of the series but can also be read as a standalone. This book does have lots of adult content including some BDSM scenes.

Thanks NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.


Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews490 followers
August 14, 2017
This author knows how to write sexy…

I always like coming back to this BDSM-themed series, revisiting characters I know and love. It is hard to believe this is the tenth book in this series. In a whirlwind of characters and stories, as a voyeur of the BDSM lifestyle, I appreciate how this author spells everything out with a balance between boundaries and the benefits of following them. I’ve read a number of books in this genre and I’m happy when a story can convey the rules by living it rather than teaching it…

Lynne and Nathaniel were not strangers even if their first relationship ended abruptly with many unanswered questions. Lynne had no closure and this was her opportunity to have that. Even as she soon wanted more… Nathaniel had his reasons for ending things and despite the temptation Lynne still held for him, more lies were going to complicate, and maybe end things again, before they really got started…

“I wanted you the way I took you last night. Raw. Urgent. Hard. Rough… And then I want you soft and tender and open.”

Trust, honesty, and lack of judgement. These are the basic tenets relationship are based on. ON shaky ground, Lynne and Nathaniel were going to fight an uphill battle, and I really wanted them to succeed. Yes, I wanted to shake them once in a while – why make this so difficult for yourselves, folks – but I cheered them loudly along every step! Their story was sexy – blazingly hot sexy with no room for the timid or uncertain. A great addition to the series! ~Diane, 4 stars
Profile Image for Jennifer.
239 reviews
September 25, 2017
It’s no secret I’m a Tara fan. It’s no secret I’m a huge fan of the Submissive Series. Each book is like going home for me, and I love catching up with the characters that now feel like family. The Flirtation, the tenth installment in this saga is no exception. This second chance romance told in dual POV, highlights the ins and outs of a BSDM community and the nuances of the relationships embedded in this lifestyle. Ms. Sue Me once again does an exceptional job highlighting the fact that this way of life isn’t about the kink, but about the love and trust required to commit to this culture. It’s this love and trust that illustrates the pure beauty of the commitments and the people involved.

Lynne Ryder and Simon Neal are not new to this plot, having made numerous cameos in subsequent books. It was wonderful to finally peel back their layers. Their complexities and fetishes exposed in a tale full of lies and intensity. In a story full of unresolved issues, we witness seduction and sensuality. The Flirtation from secrets to desires, from desire to possible second chances. This D/s dynamic is full of naughty passion that kept me turning the pages.

“You only get one life. Live it for you.”
Profile Image for Jennifer.
1,247 reviews590 followers
August 12, 2017
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.



The Flirtation is the second book experience with Tara Sue Me and I have to say after loving both books (first was Master Professor) I am now hooked on Tara's writing style. The Flirtation is 10th book in the Submissive series but it can easily be read as a stand alone. I know because that's what I did. After loving the world and characters in this installment I will go back and read the other books in the series. I read over the Synopsis for the other books to see what books the secondary characters were in because there were a few couples or references to couples. I want to read all their stories. 

Why did I love The Flirtation?

1. Main characters - Lynne and Simon are both great people I rooted for the whole book.
2. D/s relationship - I'm really enjoying romances with kind of kink when they are written well. 
3. All the Feels - The story between Lynne and Simon gave me every feeling while reading it. 
4. Hot Sex - But not just hot sex . . . love and respect that went with it.
5. Sadist / masochist - I've read the terms before but never in a BDSM romance and the way Tara wrote them I didn't feel "icky" about it like I thought I would. I found it every interesting and kind of hot.

I'm excited to read more by Tara Sue Me and I'm lucky that my library has most of her back list. If you are into BDSM romances you should really give her a try. 

Profile Image for Romance Readers Retreat.
2,346 reviews225 followers
August 5, 2017
Tara Sue Me's Submissive series is one of my favorite BDSM series, so I always get excited when a new story is released!

Lynne is Nathaniel and Abby's Nanny and life has been going well since she got the position. In fact, everything is perfect and sh wants for nothing until they invite her to a BDSM meeting and she is reminded of a past relationship she can't forget. Simon was a Dom who quickly became so much more. When he broke things off suddenly she was thrown and left the lifestyle. Now that has dipped her toes back in, she finds herself on a BDSM message board. She is shocked when she realizes Simon is a member.

Before she can talk herself out of it, Lynne has created a fake identity so she can talk to Simon. He feels an immediate connection to this new submissive he begins taking to. Soon things move past online and Lynne knows Simon will be upset to learn the truth. He has been keeping secrets too, especially about his previous abrupt exit. Can Lynne and Simon take a chance on love and look past their pain and secrets?

I enjoyed The Flirtation very much. Tara Sue Me just has a magic knack for writing great BDSM. I liked the online element to this second chance love story and though Lynne and Simon frustrated me at times (especially Simon!) I was invested in their relationship. I would have like some more page time for them at the end, but am hopefully we'll revisit them in future books.
Profile Image for Deborah.
971 reviews4 followers
August 3, 2017
Lynne was on a hiatus from the BDSM world she was briefly in.  She had a Dom, Simon, who ended their relationship.  Not really knowing the full reason for the split, Lynne was hurt.  She stayed away from the lifestyle until she went online to an old message board and finds her former Dom still there. She ends up making herself a separate identity so she can chat with him.  Things progress from there.

Although I like a second chance at love type story, there were way too many unresolved issues between Simon and Lynne, from their past, that were never resolved. I didn't really get a feel for Simon.  Yes, he still had it bad for Lynne, and was equally taken with Faye, but the connection wasn't screaming to me. I wanted Simon to go after Lynne more when things went sideways.  She put herself out there and he didn't really do that for her. The only reason they even got back together was because of her other identity online. 

There also was a side storyline that seemed to detract from this story and had no real bearing whatsoever.  It was needless and seemed to just be a story filler to add some drama.

I wanted to like this more than I did. The story just wasn't convincing me.

3.5 Stars/4 Flames

This book was gifted to me by the Jeep Diva in exchange for an honest review.  The review and ratings are solely my opinions.
Profile Image for Ryn Meagher.
465 reviews22 followers
May 22, 2023
Okay so the spice content was perfection in the idea but not the practice

I am going to come down to I don’t like the way the author writes I don’t think it’s my vibe
Or the publishing ist my vibe and I was left lacking

But you know my stand by now don’t say no to a book based on a review they are open to interpretation
Profile Image for Teresa Mary Rose.
1,298 reviews343 followers
July 29, 2020
We are now ten books into this series and it continues to deliver. Simon and Lynne were both so great and I loved them together so much. As always, the book was ridiculously steamy but it still had a ton of heart.

Lynne and Simon are a second chance romance and that is one of my favorite tropes. I loved them both individually and together and I so loved that they were exactly what one another needed. Their chemistry was crazy intense and I loved that even though they had drama they were never over the top angsty.

So a big part of this book relies on secrets between the couple and I’ll be honest, secrets are not something I deal with well, especially when I am in on the secret. It’s just a plot line that typically makes me crazy. However, Tara Sue Me made it work. She sold me on something I don’t typically love and I think that says a lot. The key is that it doesn’t drag forever and the fall out is realistic and painful, but also dealt with maturely.

One thing these books always tech me is that I am SOOOOOO not submissive in nature, cause oh my how the guys drive me insane. I get so cranky with them and I typically argue with them in my head and try to make the heroine say what I’m saying. But at the same time, I always love the dynamic between the characters. Just goes to show you don’t always have to fully relate to a story to love it.

The Flirtation is another great addition and I love getting to check in on past characters again. I swear, I could read about these characters forever and never get bored and I kinda hope I get to.
Profile Image for Mitch C..
465 reviews46 followers
July 2, 2020
Simon and Lynne were former Dom-Sub. Drifted apart.

To mend her broken heart, Lynne joined online BDSM and used pseudo 'Faye'. She then came across Simon's account.

Simon, on the other hand, didn't know Faye was Lynne.



Simon became confused because he still has feelings for Lynne but Faye captivated him. Little did he know, they were same person.

I gotta say, I'm done with BDSM. I'm just reading this coz' it was a series I've started.

OC me.

Profile Image for Jae Mod.
1,719 reviews220 followers
June 25, 2017
***ARC provided by the author in exchange for honest review***
 
Sexy, steamy and oh, so naughty is all wrapped up in the 10th book of the Submissive series, The Flirtation by Tara Sue Me. Take the journey of S&M with a bit of deceit on the side with Simon and Lynne.
 
You can’t go wrong with a Tara book! I have practically read all her work and all are by far 5+ stars! Like the rest of the Submissive series I did not want this book to end. I wish it kept going for more pages, plus might I add, you have glimpses of Nathaniel and Abby West in addition to other characters from previous books.
 
Simon and Lynne have a history. Once meeting in a BDSM chat room online then turning that encounter into a D/s relationship for a short period only for Lynne to find herself lonely and alone without him due to her inexperience in the scene. With her heart half mended but still wanting answers, she now finds herself back in NY (thanks to Nathaniel & Abby) and in his territory. What's a submissive to do?
 
Fake name, a mask and a computer gains the attention of her ex-Dom, but how far and how long can she outwit him before he connects the puzzle pieces?
 
In her quest to gain Simon’s attention, Lynne must also conquer her own thoughts on what “normal” is. In BDSM there is no “normal” per se and she has a hard time coming to grasp that concept. While Simon and Lynne battle out their history and desires, outside encounters hinder their journey of solace.
 
“You only get one life. Live it for you.” - Simon to Lynne
 
Captivating as always, Tara brings you two characters back together with hot scenes, intense realizations and emotions that float off the page. Take the journey of sadism and masochism with Simon and Lynne, you won’t regret it!  
 
5+ Stars
Profile Image for Raven 🖤.
335 reviews
November 19, 2025
I just wanna say…a time was had reading this book. I was familiar with the characters through previous books/characters. But, I don’t think anything or anyone could have prepared me for who Lynne and Simon were. Going into this story, we have a little background about their past, but nothing too crazy. From the first page, I really enjoyed reading Lynne’s point of view. Idk, it felt like a breath of fresh air for some reason. She’s actually one of my favorite characters in this series, she just spoke to me. Now Simon, I was actually really excited to learn more about him, since we had only saw tiny parts of him in previous books. He didn’t disappoint, like yes, I do feel like we got to know him more, but still felt like I knew him more than I did when I opened the book. I can throughly say I enjoyed this book. Sucks it’s the last (full book) in the series. I loved it so much and also the characters. Lynne and Simon delivered expeditiously. It was an awesome time to read about them and their experience. Until then 🖤.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,095 reviews5 followers
June 21, 2017

The Flirtation (The Submissive Series Book 10) written by Tara Sue Me
5 stars

Reading this series is like coming home. I love how Tara Sue Me intertwines characters from earlier in the series enough to remind you of how much you loved them, but not too much that you lose focus on the main characters you are currently reading about. However you can never get enough of Nathaniel and Abby when they are mentioned.

Lynne aka Faye and Simon had an unresolved breakup. They both had regrets about the way things ended and hadn't forgot about one another. Both had decided they weren't what the other needed...or so they thought. Toss in a jealous ex who liked to cause trouble for others and was very manipulative and resentful.

“She didn’t want to see him give someone else what he wouldn’t give her.”

In a BDSM relationship the core of it needed to be based on trust and honesty. Both Lynne and Simon failed at that and once it was revealed they weren't sure they'd ever get to a place of complete trust again. Is it worth trying to build a relationship that is already doomed before it's started? If they tried again and couldn't get past the dishonesty would they recover from walking away from one another again? They have friends in common...would it be awkward to be around one another or would they continue avoiding each other?


Profile Image for Wolf (Alpha).
922 reviews12 followers
January 23, 2020
I loved this book. I love Lynne and I love her attitude. She is determined, brave, and stubborn. I love how she begins to try again in the BDSM lifestyle and how Abby and Nathaniel let her live in their penthouse while she does. I like how she gets on the online forum and how she finds Simon. I like how she makes herself Faye and how she begins talking with Simon. I like how he begins talking with her and how their relationship begins to grow again. I hate that Lynne kept her true identity hidden from Simon. I love how protective Nathaniel is of Lynne and how he warns Simon away from her. I was glad when they worked everything out and Lynne became Simon's sub. Great read. 10 stars!!!!
Profile Image for Lorie Glowania.
554 reviews29 followers
June 1, 2017
This is the 10th book in this series. Lynne is a babysitter and very happy with her job but she hasn't had a serious relationship since her last Dom. She finds that he's is frequent poster on a website and now she finds herself assuming a new identity and talking with him. Can they really have a real relationship or when the truth comes out the flame will die
Profile Image for Tabs.
914 reviews39 followers
August 2, 2017
Bonkers plot. Sexy and emotional romance. I could have done without the crazy club sub plot but this book was otherwise aces. Full review to come.
Profile Image for Abbie L.
846 reviews3 followers
May 21, 2019
Each book got better and better, I’m going to miss this series
Profile Image for Linda Rea.
2,189 reviews15 followers
August 8, 2017
I think every story in this submissive series just gets better and better , with that being said this is about Lynne the West's nanny and Simon. When Lynne went looking for information on a BDSM lifestyle and talked to and met Simon who is a Dom he was very attracted to her but he sent her away telling her he didn't think she was really submissive. When Lynne decides to go to school in New York she begins to look for the lifestyle again and just so happens to talk to Simon but she tells him her name is Faye. As the online relationship blossoms they agree to go to be in a demonstration with a bullwhip but he still thinks she is Faye. There is also a very jealous player who wants Simon for herself and will do anything to get him and the drama is crazy. Lynne is trying to be the new and improved submissive and Simon is very taken with her but the demonstration comes to a head and secrets are reveled. Lynne is brave and is going after what she wants and she wants it with Simon.
Reviewed on behalf of Once upon an Alpha
Profile Image for Take Me Away To A Great Read.
502 reviews2 followers
August 8, 2017
The Flirtation by Tara Sue Me
(Submissive #10)
Published by Berkley Books
Release Date: August 8, 2017
Rating: 5 Stars

I would like to thank the publisher for providing me with an advance review copy of The Flirtation for an honest review.

The Flirtation is a set the pages-on-fire, second-change romance! The chemistry is undeniable but chemistry isn’t always enough. Is told from dual POV of Lynne and Simon. They both worry that they won’t be able to be honest about what they really need from the other person and that scares them. This couple is tied for my favorite in the series with Cole and Sasha. This book can be read as a part of the series or as a standalone.

FULL REVIEW GO TO: https://takemeawaytoagreatread.com/20...
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,261 reviews206 followers
August 8, 2017
3.5 stars--

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 8, 2017

Lynne has not wanted for anything since she began working as Nathaniel and Abby's nanny--until the night they invite her to a group BDSM meeting. The abrupt breakup she had with her last Dom made her turn her back on the lifestyle, but now she's ready to dive back in. When she starts chatting on online BDSM message boards, she's shocked to discover Simon, her former Dom, is a frequent poster--and even more shocked at herself when she creates a secret identity and strikes up a conversation.

After messaging with a mysterious submissive online, Simon forms an immediate connection. Lynne and Simon's D/s relationship grows in intensity, but can their relationship survive after the truth is exposed, and Lynne's identity is laid bare?


•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: 3.5 stars--THE FLIRTATION is the tenth installment in Tara Sue Me’s contemporary, adult THE SUBMISSIVE erotic, BDSM romance series. This is Dominant and sadist Simon Neal, and masochist, nanny and college student Lynne Ryder’s story line. THE FLIRTATION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Several characters from previous installments, including Nathaniel and Abby West, cross over for cohesion and familiarity.

NOTE: If you have issues with S & M (Sadism and Masochism) including whipping, flogging, spanking and punishment, this story line may not be for you.

Told from dual third person points of view (Simon and Lynne) THE FLIRTATION is a second chance romance story line that focuses on the rekindling relationship between Dominant and sadist Simon Neal, and the woman he claims as his own-masochist, and nanny Lynne Ryder. Months earlier Lynne Ryder was the submissive to Simon Neal but when Simon abruptly cut off their relationship Lynne found her life spiraling out of control including the loss of her job, a broken heart, and leaving the lifestyle she was growing to love. Working for Nathaniel and Abby West as their live-in nanny Lynne took stock of her life and with the decision to return to school to become a primary school teacher, our heroine found herself living in the West’s Manhattan penthouse, preparing for a future at Columbia University. But curiosity got the best of Lynne Ryder, as she began an internet search of the man who broke her heart-Simon Neal-masochist and Manhattan Dominant-and the man with whom Lynne had fallen in love. What ensues is an online relationship of lies between Lynne and Simon-a relationship that will fall apart when Simon discovers the truth about the woman he believes is someone else.

THE FLIRTATION is a story of second chances but Simon and Lynne will fall victim to an act of vengeance, jealousy and betrayal. Not only will Simon and Lynne be targeted but so will Simon’s New York BDSM club-a club that prides itself in privacy and anonymity. With so many unresolved issues between them Lynne’s lies add fire to an already volatile situation.

The relationship between Simon and Lynne is one of second chances but Lynne’s lies and online fake persona push Simon when the truth is revealed. The numerous $ex scenes are intimate; the S & M scenes are erotic and intense but may not be suitable for all readers.

There are a large number of secondary and supporting characters including Nathaniel and Abby (The Submissive Series), Dominants Cole Johnson and Luke DeVaan, as well as submissive Anna Beth.

THE FLIRTATION is a sexually graphic story line. The premise is interesting but the secondary conflict, the threats against our story line couple, seemed unnecessary and overdone. In my opinion it was a futile attempt to bring suspense into an otherwise predictable story line. The characters are colorful and energetic; the romance is erotic and intense. I received an ARC copy for review and the story line ended at 70%. The remaining 30% was a bonus novella-THE CLAIMING-originally released in September 2016.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

www.thereadingcafe.com
Profile Image for Kim.
438 reviews14 followers
September 23, 2017
Tara Sue Me has a new book out so of course I have to get an ARC, I just have to, sorry! This is the 10th book in the submissive series, this time following Abby and Nathaniels nanny Lynne (remember Abby and Nathaniel from the previous books? Yeah them).

Once again Tara Sue Me has created another brilliant erotica novel, I absolutely love all of her books because although yes they are erotica they are about so much more than just sex which is what the majority of books in this genre are about. 

In this series we follow various couples and their experiences with BDSM, most BDSM novels are about the girl instantly being up for absolutely anything and doesn't hold back, however in this series the submissives are more reserved, they have doubts and don't just blindly follow orders. 

Yes there are sex scenes and they are extremely steamy however for me this book is more than about sex, it is about the trusting relationship between a sub and a Dom, they have to trust each other for the relationship to work, so in this book we see what happens when there's no trust. It was a nice different dynamic to witness and I think it really did show the importance of the lifestyle while at the same time giving readers the sex scenes that they look for in an erotica book. 

One of my biggest pet peeves with the erotica genre is the use of protection during sex, very rarely are condoms used and it really annoys me because girls seem to be perfectly ok with having unprotected sex however in this book during a sex scene a condom isn't used and it is a big deal. Finally a girl who is upset that there was no protection! Added to that the guy was also really upset that he had been stupid enough not to use one, I liked that both sides regretted the decision. I really appreciated this as recently it has been really annoying me because what sort of message are we giving to people reading these books? So from the fact that Tara added it into the book and she did it so well that this book was instantly a 5* book just for that scene alone! 

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is following the series as it is a brilliant extension of the already brilliant story. I would also recommend it to newbies in the erotica genre. Some books try and throw every single BDSM related appliance into the book to try and give readers a bit of everything, however in this series it is more about the importance of the relationship between the characters and this is probably why I enjoy the series so much, although in the erotica genre it is more about the loving relationship and trust and for me I think it makes the sex scenes better because they are fully consensual. 

Read more on my blog at: https://bookgeek2015.wordpress.com/
Profile Image for Ilana.
1,220 reviews17 followers
August 27, 2017
I do love this series - and i really have to say that i'm impressed how our author Tara Sue Me is able to continue to come up with such dynamic stories with all of the characters - giving us things to think about that we never really put in the series before.  We knew of these characters before, and i think that it's great to see them have their own story now. 

So we have Lynne-  the girl who has become part of the West's family - she's their nanny - and this job found her at the perfect time since she was trying to figure herself out after a break up and between thoughts of the future.  It's now when she's got the chance to take summer classes to become a teacher that her past life and present blend together.

Enter Simon - another of the Dom's in their circle - and the guy who broke Lynne's heart.  He's a sadist - and that's not for everyone , and because of that, he's often found himself wanting so much more and never getting it.  When he learns that Lynne is back in town, he starts to feel what he hasn't in a while.

That's when things get dicey.  Nathaniel has warned Simon to stay away from Lynne, and Lynne has this sense that she needs to prove to simon that she is a sub and can be what he wants.  When they both venture back to the same online chat group that brought them together in the past - the same chemistry is there - even if Simon doesn't know that it's Lynne he's talking to. 

I think that this is an interesting take on the story that we usually get from Tara Sue Me.  I feel like there's always the underlying sense of trust that keeps the stories complex and exciting, but it's always trust that was broken for other reasons.  not of their own doing.  In this case - Simon lied to Lynne about why he needed to break up with her, and she's deceiving him into thinking that she's someone else, so we all know that it's going to implode and it's just a matter of when.

Add to that a sub that now has it out for Simon since he's not into her like she hopes-  and this same crazy girl is friends with Lynne - well we see that trust is certainly not the only thing keeping them apart.

Aside from that - we get everything that we hope for in this series.  Some incredible scenes between these two when they have a chance to get together.  We get to see the control that Simon has and the way that Lynne's about to find herself and truly let go.  All that also leads to some incredibly steamy scenes- and the need for a cold shower. 

So all in all, a great addition to this series and i can't wait to see what's next since we know the female lead and have seen how her story has been woven into the mix over the years.
Profile Image for Elizabeth H..
1,076 reviews78 followers
August 2, 2017
This review was written by Marie for a guest review post on Ever After Book Reviews:

3.5 Stars

As a fan of Tara Sue Me, I have stuck by this series. I have been through the ups and downs of each one, and found that most of them were pretty damn good. But this one… this one has me torn.

Tara Sue Me is a master of erotic romance. She knows how to take a steamy scene and electrify it. And with The Flirtation, she does it on an extraordinary level. This wasn’t the issue for me. This was more of the highlight. Her knowledge of the BDSM world always seems to surprise me more and more with each book, and always makes me feel like I’m being schooled in an area that I am not really all that familiar with. I like that.

No, I took issue with the characters themselves. Lynne and Simon had great chemistry. They really did. I was upset when Simon just up and left her in the dark, and was thrilled when they got the chance to reconnect. However, what nagged at me, was the way they were given that chance.

The romantic in me takes major issue with this, and it hung me up completely.

Now, if you’re looking for another exceptionally steamy read and you could care less about how they reach their end game, then this is definitely a book for you. But for readers like myself, I need something more.

***I voluntarily read a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and feelings are my own***
Profile Image for Lisa Stinson.
1,374 reviews18 followers
August 4, 2017
This book, like all the rest of Tara's books, is absolutely amazing. It was a shorter novel but packed with so much kink, drama, and heat. Loved every single word.

Lynne and Simon had a very brief relationship a couple of years ago before Simon suddenly ended it. Lynne never really knew why, she just assumed Simon didn't really want her. What she didn't know was Simon is a sadist and he was worried she couldn't handle him and all his kink. Lynne started to believe that maybe she wasn't submissive after all and decided to stay away from that life. But living as Abby and Nathaniel's nanny, she realizes that she wants to explore that lifestyle a bit more.

When Lynne comes back to New York for school, she decides to explore on-line chatrooms and talk with fellow subs and secretly she is looking for Simon and any information she can gather about his current Dom/sub life. She ends up chatting online with Simon but using a different name (Faye) so that he won't know it's her. They connect instantly and he wants more from her besides just online chatting.

Now Lynne/Faye is torn between coming clean about her real identity or playing this dangerous game a little longer. You can only imagine the ramifications that will come down on Lynne when Simon finds out the truth (and honestly I was excited to see how he would handle her and the situation). Throw in some drama from a submissive that wants more than Simon ever thought about giving her and you have yourself an amazing novel.

I was so into the book that I read it in a day. Didn't want to put it down. I love this series so much. We always get to see Abby, Nathaniel, and the other couples from previous books just to catch up on their lives, which I love. And the epilogue always leaves you craving the next book. I don't think I will ever get enough of this series. So please Tara...continue writing these wonderfully amazing books.
Profile Image for Judy.
1,791 reviews
August 4, 2017
I get so excited when I get my hands on a Tara Sue Me book, because I know it's going to be a good one!!

Our story starts off with Nathaniel showing up at Simon's office. Why is that a big deal you ask? Because Nathaniel and Simon are both DOMs and Nathaniel doesn't just show up for no reason. But, Simon is thinking maybe because since he owns a Temp agency that Nathaniel needs to hire someone. No such luck... You see, Simon played with a sub named Lynne and determined she wasn't submissive at all and left her. Lynne now works for Nathaniel and Abby as a Nanny and will be living in their penthouse over the summer (and they won't be) to attend school. Still no big deal, right? Well, Nathaniel tells Simon that Lynne has expressed an interested in the BDSM world again. Nathaniel has told Simon that Lynne is like a little sister to him so he warns Simon to stay away from her.

Lynne while staying at Nathaniel and Abby's penthouse decides to revisit a chat room for BDSM that she used to frequent. Of course, the first person she finds is Simon. He had some nerve cutting her loose and telling her she wasn't submissive. She decides to prove him wrong and made up a new "name" and decided she was going to flirt with him over the computer. How bad could that be because he wouldn't even know who it was. But, we all know plans never go as we want them!

Great story! Loved everything about it! Loved Simon and Lynne and their "relationship". Always a pleasure to read a book by this author!

Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
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