Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Velvet Lies #1

The Velvet Chair

Rate this book
"Oh, darling. You're going to be so easy to conquer." His finger reached under my chin and pulled my face back to meet his. "I can't wait to strip you out of that dress and watch you crawl around my home naked. I'm going to spank that delectable ass with every damn pervertible I can find. Hairbrushes, wooden spoons, spatulas, and I might even try a damn baking sheet. That ass of yours is always going to be prettily pink and perfectly swollen while you're under my roof."

My name is Mark Matthews. I own half of London, and the part I don't own, I'm working on.

Life was all going swimmingly well until Michael Redcliff entered my life, demanding that I marry his daughter. Actually, swap demand for blackmail. He's got goods on me that I want no one else to see, so for the time being I need to be his little lapdog.

I'll marry his daughter. I'll give him all the status, money and power he can handle... for as long as it takes me to get a divorce. You see, I can't renege on our little arrangement - but she can. I give her a week. One week and she'll be screaming the place down for her legal counsel.

I am never wrong.

188 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 6, 2017

48 people are currently reading
366 people want to read

About the author

C.P. Mandara

35 books539 followers
C P Mandara writes Dark Romance and Erotic Suspense and she is a hybrid author. Her books feature lots of twisted naughtiness and BDSM.

Where can you find her?

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/C-P-Mandara/e/...

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/c-p-m...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CPMandara

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cpmandara/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/cpmandara1

Want to sign up to her mailing list and claim two free books? https://bit.ly/3iL1wT5

Christina Mandara is a USA TODAY bestselling author and tends to write dark romance with lashings of kinky naughtiness. Her favourite pastime is travelling, and if it involves sun, sea and… sand then it’s all good.

In her spare time she’s usually cuddled up with a good book, exploring the countryside or baking in the kitchen. In fact, she loves her kitchen so much she’s one of few woman who wouldn’t mind being tied to it! Her first and foremost love is writing, however, and more often than not you’ll find her on a laptop spinning tales of romance, erotica or dark, paranormal fantasies.

She's a big fan of BDSM in all of its glorious forms, and her favourite item in the toy closet (a box simply isn’t big enough) is her riding crop.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
115 (39%)
4 stars
96 (33%)
3 stars
49 (16%)
2 stars
21 (7%)
1 star
9 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
Profile Image for Monique.
504 reviews249 followers
March 9, 2021
3,5 'Newlyweds' stars

This book is kind of a spin-off of the Pony Tales series but my advice is to start the story in Albrecht's stables to fully appreciate it.

"I hate you."
"Not yet you don't, but you will."

The Velvet Chair picks up when the last book ended - yes, Mark and Jennifer's wedding (definitely not something I expected to happen in this series, lol). But after waiting for six books for Mark and Jen to finally get together, I was very excited. I just love their banter and flirting (more like threatening to kill each other but in a sexy way you know, hahaha).

"How long did all of this take you to plan, pumpkin? You seem to have outdone yourself."
"You know exactly how long it took to plan, potato, but thank you kindly."
"That has just earned you a spanking, my feisty little carrot. Speaking of carrots, I believe I might tie you up in the kitchen when we get home."

These two shared quite a lot of hot and sexy and kinky scenes 🔥🔥🔥 However, I found them a little tamed compared to the first six books. They were wild, of course, but being used to a certain level of depravity, this book came a bit short on that aspect. There was a lot of talk from Mark about various highly alluring punishments, which unfortunately didn't get carried out. And I prefer the party night, which Mark and Marianne attended, though, this one also had some delicious moments of its own.

"What kind of massage is this?" I asked suspiciously as a pair of hands began opening my legs.
"Ah, about that. Mr. Matthews has asked that you be aroused and excited, but not allowed to orgasm," she trailed off, smiling slyly to herself.
"Surprise, surprise," I said. "No fun for me until the party starts, huh?"
"Well, I believe Andy Warhol said, 'The idea of waiting for something makes it more exciting. Let's hope that's true in your case."

The big secret about Jen's father still hasn't been revealed and I'm more and more curious what exactly are his motives. What also hasn't been explained is how Jen could be so clueless at the start if truly she's been in this scheme from the beginning. I have a feeling like there's a part missing or her mental problems are a lot worse than I thought. In which case I hope she'll get some professional help soon.

Overall, I enjoyed this book, it just didn't meet all of my expectations. I'm still looking forward to the next one very much!

"Tell me you're not enjoying this."
"I'm not enjoying this." It wasn't true, but for once I was doing as I was told. Be that as it may, I knew I wouldn't fool him for a second.
"Ah, my beautiful little liar. Sometimes you can be utterly convincing, but tonight, not so much."

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for warhawke.
1,575 reviews2,231 followers
February 15, 2017
Genre: Erotica
Type: Book 1 of Velvet Lies series
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:




As a Dom, control was second nature to Mark Matthews, but his own life was far from it. After being blackmailed into a marriage of inconvenience, he was determined to make sure it ended before the damage could be done.

Jennifer Redcliff endured a lot if things when she was at Albrecht Stables. And she thought that would help her endure her marriage with Mark. But he wanted his payback and he would get it one way or another.



After the deliciously kinky Pony Tales series, it's good to be reunited with Mark and Jennifer. There's no pony tail butt plug in sight in this one, still it is far from vanilla lol!

Believe it or not, some days it was hard being an alpha asshole.


Mark was as sexy as ever. He could be ruthless when trying to teach Jennifer a lesson, but he also had a softer side.

She was a viper, and her venom was deadly.


It looked like Jennifer could never have a break. Despite that, I like how rebellious she was. She would definitely be a fun sub to own haha!

I decided then and there, that if I was going to drown I was going to sink into the deepest depths of depravity with him, and embrace a whole new world.


I thought the story was interesting especially the arena scene. That'd be something I'd like to watch :p I like how the writing was descriptive which helped transport the readers to the location, but I felt some parts (with characters' actions) was a bit too long.

"Oh, and this isn't my fist. We can try that later. Three fingers versus a fist is a whole different ballgame, but I have a feeling you might enjoy it."


The kinky scenes are always a pleasure to read. Both of them tried to make each other's life a hell, so that guaranteed some interesting situations. One thing I love is how the author tend to have F/F scenes here and there. I always look forward to those hot bonuses lol!



The Velvet Chair is a story of attractions and manipulations. It's a continuation of Mark and Jennifer's story from the Pony Tales series. Technically this series can be read on its own, but I highly recommend reading the original series first to fully appreciate the characters dynamics.


✤ ♟ ✤ . . . (F)BR With Kinky Twinsie CC . . . ✤ ♟ ✤




For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

Profile Image for CC.
1,270 reviews726 followers
February 16, 2017
description

Mark Matthews is a successful entrepreneur and a Dominant. While some things come naturally to Mark, he didn’t foresee being blackmailed into marriage. The stakes are high as Mark plots his revenge against the mastermind who orchestrated this grand scheme and also against his treacherous bride. With confidence and the resources to exact his plan, Mark is prepared to unleash his wrath.

“This is me dominating you. I’m going to fuck with your body and mind, and when I’m done with those I’m going to fuck with your soul.”

Jennifer Redcliff has always lived a privileged life but she also endured the manipulation and cruelty of her father. After surviving her stint at Albrecht Stables, she is now bound to the man that has always gotten under her skin but he despises everything she represents.

“Today was the day I swapped one monster for another.”

As soon as their vows are exchanged, Mark implements his incremental plan of torture and Jennifer must learn how to live as his submissive or else sign the divorce papers. Being quite the masochist, Jenny can tolerate more than most, but she knows Mark is planning to mete out more than physical pain. Unknown elements also remain that may affect Jenny’s choices and could ultimately cause consequences they cannot fully predict.

“What you fail to understand, is that people who do things like that to Mark suffer horrific consequences.”


description

For those familiar with this author’s Pony Play series, you’ll thankfully know that not much is off limits. With this book focusing on Mark and Jennifer, the kinky times are in abundance and I thoroughly enjoyed the dynamic exchanged between these characters and the deviant creativity. Normally in control of any given situation, Mark slowly shows hints of a softer side but he can still wield a crop with precision accuracy. There’s no doubt that Mark absolutely ticks all my boxes. As for Jennifer, I appreciated her tenacity to embrace any given situation and the ability to endure the physical and mental demands placed upon her.

“I’m not going to torture you with pain. I’m going to torture you with pleasure.”

Augmenting the sexual chemistry, is an air of mystery surrounding the ultimate goal behind the blackmail of these characters. Knowing how the Mark and Jenny are being manipulated adds to the plot and character tension. This is a story that is intriguing and makes the reader continually wonder what will happen next to these characters. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Mark and Jennifer’s kinkscapades and look forward to continuing this series.

For those who want some mystery with their kink, I highly recommend The Velvet Chair.




Velvet Lies series:
The Velvet Chair (Velvet Lies #1, The Pony Tales #7) by C.P. Mandara Book 2 Book 3

Note: While this trilogy can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the full series of Pony Tales first, in order to fully appreciate the nuances of the ongoing plot and character development.



* This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey! *
Profile Image for Louise H's Book Thoughts.
2,045 reviews317 followers
June 16, 2020
Wow, just wow. How had I read this before and not left glowing reviews everywhere? Shame on me.

That said I think I enjoyed it even more this time, particularly since I've just completed a re-read of the first 6 Pony Tales books. You can read this without reading those, but you will definitely enjoy this more if you understand what happened in books 5 and 6 at the very least.


This is an amazing mix of salacious kink and damn good story. I got so many feels from this book (get your dirty mind out of the gutter! Oh alright I did get those kind too 😉). There are times when you want to step into the pages, give Jennifer a great big hug, and throat punch all those POS's around her. Other times when you are jealous of the orgasm train she is riding and some where you want to high five and celebrate with her. For a good chunk of the book I also wanted to be able to enter their world just so I could punch Mark's teeth out, or lights out, or both at the same time.


However , just as I decided that red hot poker enemas and entrail removal through small orifices sounded reasonable the damn man went and got a conscience. Then I had to admit how much I like the sexy devil. Admittedly the man has some many reasons to be annoyed, though if he just got his head out of his behind he would realise that the numbers don't add up. Still after what happened in book #6 he's bound to be more than a little perturbed and unsettled by current events. He needs to remember who the true enemy is though.


Talking of Michael, we get a couple of glimpses of that obnoxious streak of excrement, just enough to know that trouble is in store for someone. And chances are poor Jennifer will pay the price somehow. I totally loved seeing Leyland Forbes again, and again he is on Jennifer's side - even if as he takes great delight in her sexual torment.


It ends on a thumping cliff-hanger but since all the books are out now that should no longer be a problem for those who hate them. I'm going to be diving straight into the next book The Velvet Caress (Velvet Lies, #2, Pony Tales, #8) by C.P. Mandara , because (a) why not and (b) Jennifer and Mark!
Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
2,143 reviews195 followers
March 19, 2021
Mark is an enigmatic, controlling monster in this book. He is seeking revenge for what Jennifer and her father Michael have done to him.
Jennifer is a poor woman caught in a whirlwind of retaliation and hate. She is the epitome of a pawn in these arrogant men's games.
The Masquerade Ball is bizarre and diabolical.
There is the mystery of what this game is all about, who will be the victor?
I absolutely loved this story and cannot wait for book 2!
Profile Image for The Sassy Bookworm.
4,108 reviews2,889 followers
Did not finish
May 24, 2017
description

MY DNF of this one should not be a reflection on whether the book was good or not. I was not aware when I accepted an ARC of this one that you really needed to read THE PONY TALES series first. I have not and found myself completely lost so in fairness to the author I decided to set this one aside rather than continue and give it a low rating.

description

description
Profile Image for C.P. Mandara.
Author 35 books539 followers
February 9, 2017
It was a long time in the making, but it's finally here :) I hope you enjoy the continued antics of Mark Matthews and Jennifer Redcliff. I wonder if they'll ever be nice to each other? ;)
Profile Image for Robin Brister.
271 reviews7 followers
February 10, 2017
I loved Mark and Jennifer in the Pony books. I could not wait to see what was going to happen with them in The Velvet Chair. I was so not disappointed. Now, I need the next book to see what is going to happen with them next.
Profile Image for Nadine Bookaholic.
3,736 reviews527 followers
May 31, 2017
This was a HOT read and not for the faint of heart. There are some pretty intense BDSM scenes so be aware of this before you make your purchase, if this is something that may offend you please do not purchase this book and then leave a negative review, its not fair to the author. But if you live the intense BDSM play go for it, you'll enjoy the ride. ;)

You can see my full review here: https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo... and while you're there be sure to enter the giveaway for a chance to win a $30 Amazon gift card & ebook copy of The Velvet Chair.
Profile Image for Pandora Spocks.
Author 24 books143 followers
February 18, 2017
Mark Matthews is being blackmailed into marrying the daughter of his enemy, and he's not taking it lying down. He has dastardly plans for his new bride, Jennifer Redcliff. He'll play his Dominance to the hilt, all the better to send her screaming to her divorce lawyer.

But Jennifer can't divorce him. She has nowhere else to turn. So she'll be his voluntary, albeit feisty, submissive.

The Velvet Chair is considered dark BDSM romance, and it's definitely that, with the steamiest of sex scenes. And let me tell you, the ending? I've got to get my hands on the next installment! 5 BIG stars!!
Profile Image for Angel Sefer.
Author 20 books492 followers
June 7, 2017
The Velvet Chair is a delicious and naughty story, overflowing with sexual tension and conflicting emotions of hate and lust. Jennifer Redcliff and Mark Matthews have an intriguing history and every reason to hate each other…but the problem is that even though they don’t want to admit it, they are made for each other. So when they are forced into marriage by Jennifer’s cruel and vindictive father sparks fly.
The story is absorbing, and C.P. Mandara’s active imagination and tantalizing descriptions make it even more compelling to read the book in one sitting.
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews71 followers
March 28, 2021
☄️☄️ONE REMARKABLE JOURNEY☄️☄️
Sizzling saddles scooby! Mandera whips out one incredibly tantalizing, deliciously delectable, rock-my-world delight with this scintillating piece of perfection, serving up some cold hard justice and dishing out vengeance, catapulting this bad boy to staggering heights. A raging vortex brimming with riveting drama, gripping intrigue, cruel duplicity, callous atrocities, underlying currents, electrifying suspense and intense situations ensue, exhibiting the formidable struggles and challenging triumphs, while attentive to the stunning twists and wicked turns unfolding, futures are forged and battle lines are drawn, flinging this baby to life spectacularly. Shenanigans and chicanery run rampant while crushed perimeters and sketchy perimeters solidify, dispensing the limits, laying out strong suits, knocking down walls and bringing the heat, propelling this gem into a frenzy with mind-blowing impacts, blasting this hot number to life brilliantly. The attraction and chemistry collides with such intensity and scorching heat, exploding with boundless emotions and infinite affections, bringing our characters closer, uniting them together beautifully. The characters, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits add depth and diversity, transforming into amazing personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Fabulous job Mandera, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Profile Image for Tammy.
9,119 reviews50 followers
March 24, 2021
Michael blackmails Mark to marry his daughter to give him money and power. Mark does as Michael requests but he doesn’t plan to make it easy for Jen. If she wants a divorce then the deal is off. This is a steamy fast-paced read with loads of drama, suspense steam. The chemistry is hot and the story entertaining. I liked it.
Profile Image for Ingrid Vermeulen-Quakernaat.
1,230 reviews10 followers
April 22, 2021
A delightful sequel to the books of the pony tales in which in the last part Mark was so manipulated that he agreed to marry Jenniefer Redcliff, daughter of his nemesis. What he does not know is that she too has been manipulated by her father in such a way that marriage is the only way for her to get away under the influence of her father.

The chemistry between the two is as hot as it was, although Mark is full of revenge, he can't let go of the sense of pleasure that only Jennifer seems to be able to give him. The harsh BDSM that occurs is never too much in my eyes, although I don't know if I could endure everything. Well described, full of variety. The story also offers enough to keep you glued to the book, in anticipation of the sequel

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Readingzmything.
613 reviews1 follower
February 17, 2017
4 Stars

This was deliciously entertaining but be warned... you need to read The Pony Tales before reading this book. Apparently that's where it all starts, how Mark and Jennifer met and whatever took place at the end of that series is directly connected with what this book is all about. I didn't, and to my own fault was left a puzzled every time a reference was made to what was done to Mark. It ends with a major cliffy so be prepared. Can't wait to read what happens next.
1,338 reviews10 followers
June 14, 2017
I hate Cliffhangers. I need that Next book now.
This book was awesome. So artistically written,
the author really knew the world of BDSM. Or she
thoroughly researched it very well.

This is Jennifer and Mark's story. Oh my God
things her father has done to this poor woman.
Stands to reason why she's as strong as she is.
And to think she's a natural submissive as well.
She may not know it at first but as I read I could
see that's what she truly was. They're actually
quite perfect for each other. Now if only she can
see past the crap her father has done to her, and
talk to each other. they could clear everything
and have a wonderful life together. But of course
that's not the way things go. Jennifer has fought
Mark tooth & Nail all the way. Till she has a
realization at the club and is determined to show
she can make it through this. But then at the last
moment her dad's rears his ugly head again.
They had given her poison to give to Mark. I was
totally shocked at what she did. I couldn't believe
she actually went through with it. And of course
the book left on the Cliffhanger and I have to wait
for the next one. Which by the way I want it now.
So it's both books are out when you get this
book get the next one you are going to want it.

Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here.
I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. If you
do like this book, please consider leaving a
review. The Authors really like it when you do;
they value your opinions too
Profile Image for Zen.
3,092 reviews
February 15, 2021
I will preface this by saying that although you don't need to read the Pony Tales novels to enjoy this story, it is a good introduction to Mark and Jennifer. Although I enjoyed getting to know them in those first novels, this novel goes one step further as they are away from the stable and we see them in a more natural setting. In this novel, Jennifer's (step) father has maneuvered both of them into this marriage that neither of them can leave. As you read and get to know this couple, you realize that it's not necessarily that they don't want each other or the relationship. In the case of Mark, it is not that he doesn't want Jennifer, but that he resents being forced into the marriage and the fact that he didn't want to be married. As the established dom in this relationship, this provides many opportunities for Mark to express this to Jennifer. Although there are many times that he is set on taking his resentment out on her, he never follows through to cause her any lasting harm or takes it farther than she is willing to go.

I loved the power dynamic between these too. They fit each other perfectly. The chemistry between the two is off the charts and the banter back and forth is gold. Both of them are strong willed, snarky, stubborn people, and the give and take between the two of them makes a fantastic read.
Profile Image for Muffy Wilson.
Author 43 books225 followers
March 6, 2017
Everyone Has a 5 Star Pony in This Wicked Race

The arrogance of powerful men is now, and always has been, the main source of their weakness—their Achilles Heel, if you will. In this case, it appears to be one powerful man, Michael Redcliff, bringing Mark Matthews to heel, but not the Achilles kind. But, then…perhaps not. Men, in the process of comparing whose is always bigger, neglect the obvious—the power of a woman.

We are all voracious in our appetites to broaden our experiences, be it wealth, travel, or sex—diverse appetites all. We stretch and soar to reach the heights of our exploration while we just as eagerly grovel to the depths of our decadence. It gives us an appreciation for what we may have to lose…or gain. To know one, it follows, an understanding of the other is introduced.

So who wins or loses in this triad? Or is it a draw? It depends on your definition of strongest or cleverest or most determined? The Marquis de Sade, an eloquent, literary apologist for sexual cruelty, said it best, “In order to know virtue, we must first acquaint ourselves with vice.”

Permit me to introduce you to the Velvet Chair… and draw your own conclusions. Another outstanding piece of work, Ms Mandara. Wickedly 5 perfectly pink and swollen stars. ~ MW
Profile Image for Lily.
82 reviews
February 27, 2017
"The Velvet Chair" by C.P. Mandara ist the first book in the Velvet Lies Series.

But before reading this book, you need to read the Pony Tales Series. That's where it all starts with Mark and Jennifer.

I've read all books in the that Series and I love their story. I couldn't wait to see what's going to happen with them next and I was so not disappointed.

It's a fast paced dark romance with steamy sex scenes and the ending ends with a cliff hanger.

I enjoyed reading this, liked it very much and can't wait for the next installment.
Profile Image for Rose Howse.
914 reviews15 followers
June 15, 2017
I am angry, I had no idea this ended on a cliffhanger! I would never have read this book had I known. I had this book since March and decided it was time to read it finally. I did read the other books leading to this one and followed Jen through her ordeals so I had an idea of the content but ending the way it did is maddening! I now have many MONTHS to wait for some results and still more time after the Velvet Caress to get to a proper ending.
To be fair, The Velvet Chair was excellent if you don't mind a cliffy.
I mind!
Profile Image for Tracy.
684 reviews20 followers
May 29, 2017
I think to fully understand and enjoy The Velvet Chair, The Pony Tales series should be read, however I did like the book just fine, and it did intrigue me to the previous series!

Mark and Jennifer are forced into marriage. Mark, being especially furious over this, doesn't realize he has met his match. Mark is a jerk, but a sexy jerk you can't help but love. Jennifer is tough, strong, daring... I loved her spirit and tenacity.

The Velvet Chair is mysterious, sexy, unique and offbeat in the best of ways. Its refreshing and addictive. I cannot WAIT to see what comes next! Recommended to the reader looking for kink and mystery.

*Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads*
ARC widget photo ARC1.pngn
Profile Image for Scarlett Flame.
Author 9 books265 followers
June 18, 2017
This isn't the first book I have bought of Ms Mandara and I have to say I am a fan.
I just love her writing style and this book didn't disappoint either.
I loved the first series of "Pony" tales that led to this new series. The scene was set but, once again Ms Mandara throws a twist into the plot.
I hate spoilers but I can say this is one HOT and STEAMY tale of sex, BDSM and Dom/sub. Just my cup of tea.
Can't wait to read the next in the series
Profile Image for Mick Bird.
835 reviews13 followers
March 25, 2021
The Velvet Chair is a delicious and naughty story, which is overflowing with sexual tension and conflicting emotions. Jennifer Redcliff and Mark Matthews have an intriguing history and every reason to hate each other, but the problem is that even though they don’t want to admit it, they are made for each other. It’s is when they are forced into marriage by Jennifer’s cruel and vindictive father sparks fly.
Profile Image for Nate.
24.5k reviews19 followers
April 9, 2021
Mark & Jennifer had an entertaining read. I received a free copy of the book. And am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Nancy.
301 reviews205 followers
April 12, 2019
I'm not a reader of romance novels and this one had all the tease but none of the fulfillment so usual in the classical romance genre. The kernel of the story is weak and seems ridiculous as a reason for marriage when there are alternatives. And of course, if she'd told him from the get-go why, this story wouldn't have happened, which also made it weak for me. It's a BDSM world full of the fantasies of that realm, which doesn't bother me, but I really do like some bang for the buck as it were and this is all titillation/tease and no real climax to the events. I do admit that I was laughing in a head-shaking way at the competition scenes towards the end. And then there's the final predictability of who rode in on what horse. I've read better and also much worse. An erotic book should either get the reader excited or make them laugh. I didn't get enough of either out of this one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.