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Lessons From the Rack #2
Headmaster
Headmaster is the second book in the enticing Academy series from Tara Sue Me, the New York Times bestselling author of the electrifying Submissive series. For fans of E. L. James, Sylvia Day, Maya Banks and Beth Kery, in this scintillating new erotic romance, two instructors redefine the phrase 'teacher's pet'...
Lennox MacLure, owner of the RACK Academy, has sworn off the Dominant/submissive lifestyle. Years ago, his submissive, Winnie, died in a car accident following a heated argument for which he blames himself. Guilt-ridden and emotionally closed off, Lennox sees the academy as both his punishment and penance for her death.
Mariela, a dance instructor and a natural submissive, was Winnie's best friend and longs to help Lennox move past his grief. She's accepted that he will never see her as anything more than a friend, but she still wants to help him acknowledge what he needs. Mariela comes up with a plan of seduction, guaranteed to set free the Dominant he's wilfully buried - but the passion they unleash could prove to be stronger than they are ready to handle.
Before there was the fan fiction that became Fifty Shades of Grey, there was The Submissive... Indulge in the series that started it all: The Submissive, The Dominant, The Training, The Chalet, The Enticement, The Collar, The Exhibitionist, The Master, The Claiming, The Exposure and The Flirtation.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2018
165 people are currently reading
2516 people want to read
About the author
Tara Sue Me
70 books2,839 followersNEW 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 118 reviews
February 6, 2018
Bland
I’ve heard so many fantastic things about this author’s work that when this popped up on NetGalley I pounced. It’s not that this story is bad per se, it just wasn’t enough for me. Not enough kink. Not enough feels. Not enough zest. Not enough zhooshing.
The blurb does a good job of recapping the plot so I won’t go there. It’s a decent interpretation of fantasy rescue wish fulfillment. A little contrived, yes, but I can see the appeal.
Mariela was strike one for me. She is a dance instructor at the RACK (cute, huh?) Academy which is run by Lennox. Her crush on him predates his relationship with Winnie and they are friends, but her attitude toward him rubbed me the wrong way. I think she’s supposed to be portrayed as a sub with a spine but she comes across as a vitriolic anger ball. She antagonizes Lennox at every turn and I could muster up little to no sympathy for her cause. I get that she wants to be his submissive but her openly hostile/bratty behavior was very off-putting.
Strike number two is Lennox who’s prone to the ole martyr syndrome. Everything’s his fault, his responsibility.
Neither one of them are fully fleshed out instead relying on constructing both of their identities as "dominant" and "submissive". I have issues with one's entire personality construct being comprised of one thing, in this case their sexual proclivities. Even in real life if all anyone ever talks about is this one microcosm of their world they tend to come across one-dimensional and boring. At least to me they do.
The remainder of my issues are nitpicky:
1. it's sugarkink and as hot as spanking can be, this was halfhearted at best. There's no depth to the kink. It's all labels, calisthenics positions and mediocre sex (dirty talk, anal, face-fucking, spanking, non-restraint bondage, mild orgasm denial).
2. Mariela gets into a fairly serious car accident and allegedly crushes her leg yet a few weeks later she's at a BDSM club sceneing and only wears an ankle wrap?
It does have a nice HEA that is romantic and will be appealing to some. It probably would've been moreso for me had I liked either of the characters.
Unfortunately, I didn't love it but sugarkink fans will probably enjoy it more than I.
An ARC was provided by NetGalley.
I’ve heard so many fantastic things about this author’s work that when this popped up on NetGalley I pounced. It’s not that this story is bad per se, it just wasn’t enough for me. Not enough kink. Not enough feels. Not enough zest. Not enough zhooshing.
The blurb does a good job of recapping the plot so I won’t go there. It’s a decent interpretation of fantasy rescue wish fulfillment. A little contrived, yes, but I can see the appeal.
Mariela was strike one for me. She is a dance instructor at the RACK (cute, huh?) Academy which is run by Lennox. Her crush on him predates his relationship with Winnie and they are friends, but her attitude toward him rubbed me the wrong way. I think she’s supposed to be portrayed as a sub with a spine but she comes across as a vitriolic anger ball. She antagonizes Lennox at every turn and I could muster up little to no sympathy for her cause. I get that she wants to be his submissive but her openly hostile/bratty behavior was very off-putting.
Strike number two is Lennox who’s prone to the ole martyr syndrome. Everything’s his fault, his responsibility.
Neither one of them are fully fleshed out instead relying on constructing both of their identities as "dominant" and "submissive". I have issues with one's entire personality construct being comprised of one thing, in this case their sexual proclivities. Even in real life if all anyone ever talks about is this one microcosm of their world they tend to come across one-dimensional and boring. At least to me they do.
The remainder of my issues are nitpicky:
1. it's sugarkink and as hot as spanking can be, this was halfhearted at best. There's no depth to the kink. It's all labels, calisthenics positions and mediocre sex (dirty talk, anal, face-fucking, spanking, non-restraint bondage, mild orgasm denial).
2. Mariela gets into a fairly serious car accident and allegedly crushes her leg yet a few weeks later she's at a BDSM club sceneing and only wears an ankle wrap?
It does have a nice HEA that is romantic and will be appealing to some. It probably would've been moreso for me had I liked either of the characters.
Unfortunately, I didn't love it but sugarkink fans will probably enjoy it more than I.
An ARC was provided by NetGalley.
January 16, 2018
Why hasn't she given up? Why was she still half in love with him after all these years?
Admittedly, this author is a hit-or-miss for me. He last few books have been misses but the moment I saw the blurb for Headmaster, I just couldn't help but read it. For one, I couldn't resist the good old unrequited love trope. Second, I also couldn't resist a dead ex trope. This book had both.
Headmaster falls smack dab in the middle of my like-dislike scale. There are certain things that I really didn't care much for while there are a few that I really, really liked.
Number one of my 'Really, really liked' list is the heroine, Mariela. She's hired by Lennox to teach in his BDSM academy, RACK. She's a submissive who's in love with the hero for a long time. And she also happens to be the best friend of Winnie, the hero's dead ex.
While she has been carrying a torch for the hero since the beginning, she wasn't a pushover. Her being a submissive is a choice. She's not timid or easily intimidated by the hero. She could hold her own. I liked how she admits her feelings for the hero without losing her independence or pitying herself, etc.
Mariela also made Lennox likable. I didn't like Lennox much but I love his banter with Mariela. I also liked the BDSM aspect to the book. It's there and it's a big part of the hero and heroine but it doesn't overwhelm the reader with the ins and outs of BDSM.
The plot was okay. There were high emotional points which I really enjoyed, while there are some stuff which I'm meh about. And that brings me to Lennox.
I'm torn about him. He's a tortured individual, so full of guilt because he chose the wrong girl and she died. His "I'm so tortured, I can't be a Dom and fall in love again" got tiring after a while. And if it hadn't been for Mariela, who I adored, I would've DNF'd this book. But to be fair, he did grow as a character.
That said there were moments where I'm not quite sure whether he fell in love with Mariela because she was more compatible than Winnie ever was. And I would totally understand if other readers would take issue with the fact that Lennox did choose Winnie over Mariela. She wasn't in his radar at all. He knew her as his girl Winnie's best friend for years. And I missed the moment where he starts to fall in love with her because at the start of the book, they already have this 'will they, won't they succumb to their feelings' thing going on.
Despite that, I still enjoyed this overall. I loved Mariela and liked their romance overall.
ARC provided by the publisher
January 14, 2018
This is the first book I have read and reviewed by this author. I was pleasantly surprised at the interesting theme.
This is a second book of a series and while I was able to easily get into the story I also felt that I had missed something too, in terms of the other supporting characters.
Delightfully heated and definitely hot, we get a spicy look into a BDSM School and the delicious Headmaster. Which is the perfect term to use in this story.
The author brings us plenty of anticipation and build up along with some heated scenes that definitely add to the overall hot factor.
Mmmm. Lennox is conflicted and yet you can feel the control and heat coming off him. This makes for a buildup of anticipation and passion that you know will come. But it is his past that holds him back from what he really truly desires and that is Marie.
Well written with a taste of BDSM. But this is more romance than anything else and it was a great introduction to this author. I will read her work again.
* Copy received for review consideration.
This is a second book of a series and while I was able to easily get into the story I also felt that I had missed something too, in terms of the other supporting characters.
Delightfully heated and definitely hot, we get a spicy look into a BDSM School and the delicious Headmaster. Which is the perfect term to use in this story.
The author brings us plenty of anticipation and build up along with some heated scenes that definitely add to the overall hot factor.
Mmmm. Lennox is conflicted and yet you can feel the control and heat coming off him. This makes for a buildup of anticipation and passion that you know will come. But it is his past that holds him back from what he really truly desires and that is Marie.
Well written with a taste of BDSM. But this is more romance than anything else and it was a great introduction to this author. I will read her work again.
* Copy received for review consideration.
December 12, 2017
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
Another captivating tale from the RACK Academy by Tara Sue Me. Headmaster will pull you in emotionally, pulling at your heart strings leaving you breathless. Tara is an author who I can always count on to deliver phenomenal BDSM, D/s novels and with her second novel in Lessons from the RACK she managed to keep me hooked.
Each book is considered a standalone, but previous characters interlock and weave into the story. To fully understand their behavior, it’s good to start at the beginning.
Lennox leads a Dominant lifestyle but has supressed his fulfilment to play or seek out another submissive after his ex, Winnie died in a tragic accident. As Headmaster to RACK, school for the D/s lifestyle, he is looked upon to show guidance but as of lately he doesn’t feel the calling. Only thing keeping him there is his dance instructor and Winnie’s best friend, Marie.
Marie has always yearned for Lennox long before she worked for him. Her best friend Winnie took him before she could have him, but now she craves for the Dominant man to be unleashed. She seeks out ways to pull his inner beast out, but every time she does he knocks her down a peg. How much longer will she go on, lurking in his shadows?
Lennox and Marie are swimming with inner turmoil. Each with their own obstacles; Lennox with his guilt and grief of his ex and Marie with her lack of feeling to dance. Together they must find their balance, but force each other to see the light in a time of darkness.
Multiple times throughout I wanted to hug both of these characters. Especially, Lennox and his grief for Winnie. I admired Marie’s character for being headstrong in going after Lennox and not backing down. Her tenacious attitude won me over. Seems like the headmaster needed a good jolt to wake him up!
I can’t wait to see who Tara pairs up in her third edition at the Academy. If you haven't ventured into Tara’s books, I highly suggest you do. Her writing is stellar, her characters are magnificent and her storylines are entrancing!
4 Stars
Another captivating tale from the RACK Academy by Tara Sue Me. Headmaster will pull you in emotionally, pulling at your heart strings leaving you breathless. Tara is an author who I can always count on to deliver phenomenal BDSM, D/s novels and with her second novel in Lessons from the RACK she managed to keep me hooked.
Each book is considered a standalone, but previous characters interlock and weave into the story. To fully understand their behavior, it’s good to start at the beginning.
Lennox leads a Dominant lifestyle but has supressed his fulfilment to play or seek out another submissive after his ex, Winnie died in a tragic accident. As Headmaster to RACK, school for the D/s lifestyle, he is looked upon to show guidance but as of lately he doesn’t feel the calling. Only thing keeping him there is his dance instructor and Winnie’s best friend, Marie.
Marie has always yearned for Lennox long before she worked for him. Her best friend Winnie took him before she could have him, but now she craves for the Dominant man to be unleashed. She seeks out ways to pull his inner beast out, but every time she does he knocks her down a peg. How much longer will she go on, lurking in his shadows?
Lennox and Marie are swimming with inner turmoil. Each with their own obstacles; Lennox with his guilt and grief of his ex and Marie with her lack of feeling to dance. Together they must find their balance, but force each other to see the light in a time of darkness.
Multiple times throughout I wanted to hug both of these characters. Especially, Lennox and his grief for Winnie. I admired Marie’s character for being headstrong in going after Lennox and not backing down. Her tenacious attitude won me over. Seems like the headmaster needed a good jolt to wake him up!
I can’t wait to see who Tara pairs up in her third edition at the Academy. If you haven't ventured into Tara’s books, I highly suggest you do. Her writing is stellar, her characters are magnificent and her storylines are entrancing!
4 Stars
December 14, 2017
Headmaster was a quick read that I enjoyed. I read the first book in the Lessons from the Rack series but you don't need to read it to pick this book up. It totally stands alone.
Lennox and Marie have a history that is full of heartache and loss. It's clear from the beginning that they both have strong feelings for each other but there's a third person in the mix.
Winnie.
She's Lennox's dead girlfriend/submissive and was Marie's best friend. Lennox holds a ton of guilt and Marie is standing on the sidelines resound to be nothing more than a friend. That changes after a conversation with a friend though. After that she comes out with a plan to prove to Lennox that he can no longer deny the Dominant within him.
From the beginning of the story you could tell they both loved each other but Winnie's memory is a road block that Lennox finds it hard to get around. Headmaster was such a great story and I loved how it all played out.
Of course there's lots of steam in this one but the overall story is what hooked me. Tara Sue has an amazing way of drawing a reader into her story right from the beginning. This book is totally worth the read and while you're at it pick up the first book. You won't be disappointed in this one. Solid 4 stars.
Lennox and Marie have a history that is full of heartache and loss. It's clear from the beginning that they both have strong feelings for each other but there's a third person in the mix.
Winnie.
She's Lennox's dead girlfriend/submissive and was Marie's best friend. Lennox holds a ton of guilt and Marie is standing on the sidelines resound to be nothing more than a friend. That changes after a conversation with a friend though. After that she comes out with a plan to prove to Lennox that he can no longer deny the Dominant within him.
From the beginning of the story you could tell they both loved each other but Winnie's memory is a road block that Lennox finds it hard to get around. Headmaster was such a great story and I loved how it all played out.
Of course there's lots of steam in this one but the overall story is what hooked me. Tara Sue has an amazing way of drawing a reader into her story right from the beginning. This book is totally worth the read and while you're at it pick up the first book. You won't be disappointed in this one. Solid 4 stars.
June 10, 2022
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
Headmaster is the second book in the latest series by this author, and after loving the first book I just had to read the second book, as there was such a side plot in the first book featuring this couple and I wanted them to have their HEA so badly and see their journey. I am not ashamed to have just jumped right into this one, because it was just as good as the first one, if not better, because when it comes to BDSM as healing, you will capture my attention from the get-go with that one. This book isn’t an easy one to read though, it deals with some tough tackling topics and I really enjoyed seeing how it all played out. I knew that going into it though, it would be a heart-stopper and would really tug at the heartstrings and the author succeeded at that and more. My heart just bled for this couple and seeing how much they loved each other but not only that, but how well they “fit” so well together and seeing them get to their dream in each other was so endearingly beautiful.
Summary
Lennox MacLure is the headmaster of the RACK Academy and is one of the most capable dominants in the business. But when his submissive Winnie, was killed, he blamed himself and ever since he has sworn off the Dominnant/Submissive life and for three years has been withdrawn, grieving and not allowing himself to feel and is burdened with guilt and shame. He created the RACK Academy shortly after Winnie’s death to atone for his sins. Now enters our heroine Mariela, who is the dance instructor and the lead submissive teacher, who also happened to be Winnie’s best friend and a natural submissive and is in love with Lennox. She is determined to save Lennox from himself and get him back into the lifestyle because she knows it will heal his wounds. But getting him to that point won’t be easy and she will have a battle on her hands but also with her heart….
What I Loved
This book was everything I could have hoped for and more….I knew going into this book it would really be rough emotionally and that is true. But I also wanted to see so much from this couple. We see quite a bit of struggle and pain in the previous couple and their relationship, and so to see them find their joy in each other and truly find peace was such a win for me. This author’s writing is fully engaging, and I was so captivated by the romance between these two and the emotional scars that they were both dealing with. Seeing the heroine take control and fight for the man she loved was such a breathtaking moment, and I was cheering her on all the way. We see what a recluse Lennox has become, and she slowly draws out the dominant in him and when he bursts free and embraces that side of himself was such a worthwhile wait to see. My heart became so endeared to these two’s journey and their growth together because we see how Mariela has really neglected her submissive nature and lost her dancing song and how Lennox has lost his dominant nature and lost sight of truths about himself. Then we see as they embrace a relationship together, that they find what they have both lost. Tara Sue Me writes such powerful evoking stories and I know I am just starting to read her, but the way she develops these stories is deeply riveting and I am excited to explore more of her work and I am definitely seeing why so many have loved her work, especially in portraying BDSM relationships so well.
What I Struggled With
Honestly….I can’t really think of anything that was a big struggle or anything. I think I would have liked just a bit more couple-page time if I had to change anything.
Overall View
I found Headmaster to be such a vibrant, soul-searing romance that curled my toes, touched my heart, and had me yearning for more! A HEART-ENDEARING ROMANCE OF KINK AND HEALING!
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
Headmaster is the second book in the latest series by this author, and after loving the first book I just had to read the second book, as there was such a side plot in the first book featuring this couple and I wanted them to have their HEA so badly and see their journey. I am not ashamed to have just jumped right into this one, because it was just as good as the first one, if not better, because when it comes to BDSM as healing, you will capture my attention from the get-go with that one. This book isn’t an easy one to read though, it deals with some tough tackling topics and I really enjoyed seeing how it all played out. I knew that going into it though, it would be a heart-stopper and would really tug at the heartstrings and the author succeeded at that and more. My heart just bled for this couple and seeing how much they loved each other but not only that, but how well they “fit” so well together and seeing them get to their dream in each other was so endearingly beautiful.
Summary
Lennox MacLure is the headmaster of the RACK Academy and is one of the most capable dominants in the business. But when his submissive Winnie, was killed, he blamed himself and ever since he has sworn off the Dominnant/Submissive life and for three years has been withdrawn, grieving and not allowing himself to feel and is burdened with guilt and shame. He created the RACK Academy shortly after Winnie’s death to atone for his sins. Now enters our heroine Mariela, who is the dance instructor and the lead submissive teacher, who also happened to be Winnie’s best friend and a natural submissive and is in love with Lennox. She is determined to save Lennox from himself and get him back into the lifestyle because she knows it will heal his wounds. But getting him to that point won’t be easy and she will have a battle on her hands but also with her heart….
What I Loved
This book was everything I could have hoped for and more….I knew going into this book it would really be rough emotionally and that is true. But I also wanted to see so much from this couple. We see quite a bit of struggle and pain in the previous couple and their relationship, and so to see them find their joy in each other and truly find peace was such a win for me. This author’s writing is fully engaging, and I was so captivated by the romance between these two and the emotional scars that they were both dealing with. Seeing the heroine take control and fight for the man she loved was such a breathtaking moment, and I was cheering her on all the way. We see what a recluse Lennox has become, and she slowly draws out the dominant in him and when he bursts free and embraces that side of himself was such a worthwhile wait to see. My heart became so endeared to these two’s journey and their growth together because we see how Mariela has really neglected her submissive nature and lost her dancing song and how Lennox has lost his dominant nature and lost sight of truths about himself. Then we see as they embrace a relationship together, that they find what they have both lost. Tara Sue Me writes such powerful evoking stories and I know I am just starting to read her, but the way she develops these stories is deeply riveting and I am excited to explore more of her work and I am definitely seeing why so many have loved her work, especially in portraying BDSM relationships so well.
What I Struggled With
Honestly….I can’t really think of anything that was a big struggle or anything. I think I would have liked just a bit more couple-page time if I had to change anything.
Overall View
I found Headmaster to be such a vibrant, soul-searing romance that curled my toes, touched my heart, and had me yearning for more! A HEART-ENDEARING ROMANCE OF KINK AND HEALING!
July 30, 2018
It was just such an average book with a boring plot twist that I had to drop it even with 1 hr left in my audiobook.
January 20, 2018
***ARC Provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley***
3.5 Stars
This was my first title by this author and I enjoyed it overall. Her writing style is a little different than other authors I have read, and while it took me a little bit to get used to it, I found that it was engaging and I was involved in the story.
Lennox and Marie have known one another for a while and he is her boss. Prior to this, he was the man involved with her best friend, Winnie, who was killed in a car accident 3 years before the events of the story.
Lennox is a dom, but one who is resisting who he is because he believes that it is the lifestyle that drive Winnie to her death, and he feels responsible.
Marie is a teacher in the school Lennox runs and, she has been in love with him the entire time she has known him. But, convincing Lennox that he is good enough for her is the challenge.
I liked the BDSM elements of this story and I enjoyed the way they were handled, that they were allowed to be important to both parties and that it was ok, accepted, and central to their lives. A lot of times in a story with elements of BDSM, it feels like it is tossed in, but in this book it felt like it was central and important to the characters.
I am definitely interested in reading other titles by this author and I recommend this one.
***This and other reviews featured on our blog Booked All Night http://bookedallnightblog.com/***
3.5 Stars
This was my first title by this author and I enjoyed it overall. Her writing style is a little different than other authors I have read, and while it took me a little bit to get used to it, I found that it was engaging and I was involved in the story.
Lennox and Marie have known one another for a while and he is her boss. Prior to this, he was the man involved with her best friend, Winnie, who was killed in a car accident 3 years before the events of the story.
Lennox is a dom, but one who is resisting who he is because he believes that it is the lifestyle that drive Winnie to her death, and he feels responsible.
Marie is a teacher in the school Lennox runs and, she has been in love with him the entire time she has known him. But, convincing Lennox that he is good enough for her is the challenge.
I liked the BDSM elements of this story and I enjoyed the way they were handled, that they were allowed to be important to both parties and that it was ok, accepted, and central to their lives. A lot of times in a story with elements of BDSM, it feels like it is tossed in, but in this book it felt like it was central and important to the characters.
I am definitely interested in reading other titles by this author and I recommend this one.
***This and other reviews featured on our blog Booked All Night http://bookedallnightblog.com/***
January 7, 2018
Headmaster is a beautiful story of love, forgiveness, acceptance and submission. Both Mariela and Lennox need to move past the past and look to their future. And definitely overcome the guilt they both carry.
Their romance is beautiful, sexy and so very powerful. I loved how they helped the other move through their shared history and get to what could and will be a beautiful future. It wasn't an easy path--one that actually took YEARS to happen, but it was so worth the trouble and patience. Swoon. ~Missy,4.5 stars
Their romance is beautiful, sexy and so very powerful. I loved how they helped the other move through their shared history and get to what could and will be a beautiful future. It wasn't an easy path--one that actually took YEARS to happen, but it was so worth the trouble and patience. Swoon. ~Missy,4.5 stars
December 4, 2017
Lennox runs a BDSM academy where Doms and Subs can learn the ins and outs of being in a D/s relationship. He doesn't participate in any of the training sessions, he doesn't partake in any of the kink himself, and actually, Lennox is pretty aloof most of the time. You knew going in that there was a lot of history there for him, none of it good, and part of it involved Marie, his employee. I was really looking forward to reading about their history and why he is the way he is. I mean, who runs a BDSM school but doesn't actually partake in it?
Oh man. I don't know what to say about this one. I fell head over heels in love with Master Professor and I knew that Lennox's story had to be amazing, but I just wasn't feeling this one. While I really loved Marie and Lennox separately, and maybe even as a couple, I felt like I was missing something. It didn't help that the author would completely skip ahead in the story. So, we'd see a conflict pop up, it sort of be dealt with, and then we'd be catapulted a day, week, months into the future to when everything is resolved (maybe?). So, for instance when a sub is kicked out of the academy during training, the next chapter we apparently skip forward in time. Is it fully dealt with? Are there any repercussions? What about her Dom partner? Did they bring in a new sub as a replacement? It was things like that that really kept me from fully getting into the story. It just seemed like the author would show you the beginning workings of something and then skip ahead to the end of it without really giving the readers all the nitty gritty in between.
I will say that I liked the aspect of this tragedy that both he and Marie experienced that has sort of set them both off kilter. Lennox used to be this very confident Dom, and now he can't even be in a room with a scene taking place. Essentially, this story should be called, "How Lennox got his Dom back." We pretty much see Lennox go from this broken shell of himself and slowly (very slowly) start to embrace who he really is and become whole again. I also liked that in between chapters we got a journal entry from his dead girl friend. Those little tidbits were interesting to read about and gave you a little insight into the past.
Headmaster was not my favorite read of the year. I felt like some scenes dragged on, while a lot of parts were completely skipped over. I loved my time with Master Professor and was really looking forward to Headmaster but this just didn't do it for me. The next book seems to follow Andie's (from Master Professor) ex-boyfriend and maybe a Senator's daughter? That's a complete guess from the epilogue I got at the end of this book. Will I be tuning in for that story? Maybe. We will see.
Oh man. I don't know what to say about this one. I fell head over heels in love with Master Professor and I knew that Lennox's story had to be amazing, but I just wasn't feeling this one. While I really loved Marie and Lennox separately, and maybe even as a couple, I felt like I was missing something. It didn't help that the author would completely skip ahead in the story. So, we'd see a conflict pop up, it sort of be dealt with, and then we'd be catapulted a day, week, months into the future to when everything is resolved (maybe?). So, for instance when a sub is kicked out of the academy during training, the next chapter we apparently skip forward in time. Is it fully dealt with? Are there any repercussions? What about her Dom partner? Did they bring in a new sub as a replacement? It was things like that that really kept me from fully getting into the story. It just seemed like the author would show you the beginning workings of something and then skip ahead to the end of it without really giving the readers all the nitty gritty in between.
I will say that I liked the aspect of this tragedy that both he and Marie experienced that has sort of set them both off kilter. Lennox used to be this very confident Dom, and now he can't even be in a room with a scene taking place. Essentially, this story should be called, "How Lennox got his Dom back." We pretty much see Lennox go from this broken shell of himself and slowly (very slowly) start to embrace who he really is and become whole again. I also liked that in between chapters we got a journal entry from his dead girl friend. Those little tidbits were interesting to read about and gave you a little insight into the past.
Headmaster was not my favorite read of the year. I felt like some scenes dragged on, while a lot of parts were completely skipped over. I loved my time with Master Professor and was really looking forward to Headmaster but this just didn't do it for me. The next book seems to follow Andie's (from Master Professor) ex-boyfriend and maybe a Senator's daughter? That's a complete guess from the epilogue I got at the end of this book. Will I be tuning in for that story? Maybe. We will see.
November 20, 2017
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup. (on the blog 1/17/18)
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2ixBfv2
Tara Sue Me always brings a deliciously steamy read to the table.
The Gist: Lennox runs a BDSM academy but he's kind of a Dom trying to not be a Dom. Yeah, he's got some issues happening. And Marie? Well she's about tired of waiting for him to get his Dom back and ready to make it happen one way or another. Poor boy doesn't know what's about to hit him.
Marie and Lennox are both rather tortured over a past loss-- her best friend and his former sub-- and dealing with a lot of hurt, sadness and guilt over her death even years later. They're also dealing with the fact they have a major case of the lusts for each other. Yall. They had some struggles!
I really liked them individually. And them as a couple. They both had quite a journey and it was in turns funny, heartbreaking and rather breath taking. It was a fun ride to go along with.
And the sexy bits were oh-so-sexy. Lennox turned out to be a talker and I do love me a naughty talker. The two were passionate and intense. And totally won my heart. One thing I really love about Me's books is her take on doms and that you get a slightly different presentation of them than in most books and I just love that and getting to see things from their side, too.
While I enjoyed a lot of this one I did have a couple issues.
>>>I really do not care for these covers and had I not already been a fan I would have skipped them over real fast.
>>>I also felt like there was a little something missing writing-wise. There'd be issues and then they were just...handled. Like a big problem at the academy and a chapter ending with "you'll regret that" and then the next chapter...handled and over. I was like...but I wanted to see some of those bits. Or an injury quickly healed or the hero having a big thing and then it's over. I wanted more of those juicy bits to get me from A to C.
>>>And I know this is nitpicky but a secondary character makes buttercream icing and I wanted to yell IT'S CALLED FROSTING! Drove me crazy. lol
All in all, though, I enjoyed watching these two FINALLY get their happily ever. Steamy, emotional and captivating... Headmaster was a real good time.
January 21, 2018
My review cross-posted from
Wit and Sin
After the death of his submissive, Winnie, Lennox MacLure turned his back on the Dominant part of himself while at the same time opening the RACK Academy as a sort of penance. He’s been living a half-life since then, but emotionally shutting himself down is getting more and more difficult when faced with his desire for the academy’s dance instructor – and Winnie’s best friend – Mariela. Mariela has wanted Lennox for years, but he’s never seen her as more than Winnie’s friend. Frustrated and determined not to lose him to despair, Mariela makes one last desperate bid to unleash Lennox’s Dom side, and the risk she takes could make or break their chance at happiness.
Since I first ventured into the world of the RACK Academy in Master Professor, I’ve been dying to read Lennox and Mariela’s story. Headmaster is filled with emotional turmoil, but there’s also quite a bit of hope to balance that out.
Lennox has been closed off for years, unable to move past his misplaced guilt over Winnie’s death. I liked that it wasn’t easy for him to come back to his whole self; the work he had to put in made his journey feel “earned,” for lack of a better word. And Lennox definitely needed to start finding himself before he was a good fit for Mariela. Though she’s loved him for years, Mariela was always stuck in the role of “Winnie’s best friend.” And though Mariela is kind, she’s no doormat that will let Lennox put in her in a sort of box. She and Lennox clash more than once over the course of the story, and their happily ever after is well earned. There are a lot of ups and downs, and sometimes I might have been frustrated with Lennox’s one-step-forward-two-steps-back, but the fast pace of the story kept it from ever dragging. And while it has plenty of angst, Headmaster isn’t all loss and discovery. There are also plenty of smoking hot scenes. Mariela and Lennox have fantastic chemistry, and things get hot.
I really enjoyed Headmaster – so much so that I read it in one sitting. And even though I had some issues with the story (namely problems popping up which are then quickly resolved off-page), I was still quite happy with how Lennox and Mariela’s romance turned out. These two had a rough journey, but the result is a strong, believable love story that was a pleasure to read.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
After the death of his submissive, Winnie, Lennox MacLure turned his back on the Dominant part of himself while at the same time opening the RACK Academy as a sort of penance. He’s been living a half-life since then, but emotionally shutting himself down is getting more and more difficult when faced with his desire for the academy’s dance instructor – and Winnie’s best friend – Mariela. Mariela has wanted Lennox for years, but he’s never seen her as more than Winnie’s friend. Frustrated and determined not to lose him to despair, Mariela makes one last desperate bid to unleash Lennox’s Dom side, and the risk she takes could make or break their chance at happiness.
Since I first ventured into the world of the RACK Academy in Master Professor, I’ve been dying to read Lennox and Mariela’s story. Headmaster is filled with emotional turmoil, but there’s also quite a bit of hope to balance that out.
Lennox has been closed off for years, unable to move past his misplaced guilt over Winnie’s death. I liked that it wasn’t easy for him to come back to his whole self; the work he had to put in made his journey feel “earned,” for lack of a better word. And Lennox definitely needed to start finding himself before he was a good fit for Mariela. Though she’s loved him for years, Mariela was always stuck in the role of “Winnie’s best friend.” And though Mariela is kind, she’s no doormat that will let Lennox put in her in a sort of box. She and Lennox clash more than once over the course of the story, and their happily ever after is well earned. There are a lot of ups and downs, and sometimes I might have been frustrated with Lennox’s one-step-forward-two-steps-back, but the fast pace of the story kept it from ever dragging. And while it has plenty of angst, Headmaster isn’t all loss and discovery. There are also plenty of smoking hot scenes. Mariela and Lennox have fantastic chemistry, and things get hot.
I really enjoyed Headmaster – so much so that I read it in one sitting. And even though I had some issues with the story (namely problems popping up which are then quickly resolved off-page), I was still quite happy with how Lennox and Mariela’s romance turned out. These two had a rough journey, but the result is a strong, believable love story that was a pleasure to read.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
November 27, 2017
This is book 2 in the “Rack Academy Series” but could be read as a standalone as well. The main characters Marie and Lennox are the stars of this show and what a show they offer us. It’s been told from both Marie’s and Lennox’s point of view and that made the story so much better and it felt complete with both of theirs thoughts and feelings revealed for the reader. Their story goes way back to their past which is haunting them both and prevent them from moving on either separately or together. They both desire each other secretly but Lennox is not allowing any feelings to slip by and open his heart again to love. This was a very great read for me and I enjoyed it very much even if I got frustrated at times and wanted to slap some sense into Lennox and make him forget the past and focus on the future. Tara Sue Me managed to pull off yet another amazing BDSM book. Each time I think “This is it” and there she goes and write another book and blows my mind. I recommend this and hope you enjoy it at least half as much as I di
January 15, 2018
Tara Sue Me write some of my favorite BDSM stories and in Headmaster, book 2 in the Lessons From the Rack, Lennox’s story who I was very excited to learn more about.
Lennox owns the RACK Academy. He no longer engages personally in the lifestyle because of his guilt and grief over losing his submissive, Winnie, in a car accident after they had an intense argument. Mariela, Winnie’s best friend, wants to help set him free and has come up with the perfect plan of seduction. Though she has long ago come to terms with the fact he could never have feelings for her beyond friendship, she can’t take his pain. Once she helps heal his wounds, she plans to set him free, but you know what they say about best laid plans. Soon, Marie’s carefully constructed plan burns out of control and it seems impossible she’ll come out of it without her heart broken.
I really enjoyed this story. Tara Sue Me always writes realistic BDSM scenes and this had two extremely endearing characters. I was engaged with them individually and their relationship. This was emotional because of the loss they both dealt with and that aspect was dealt with very well by the author, another well done read by her!
Lennox owns the RACK Academy. He no longer engages personally in the lifestyle because of his guilt and grief over losing his submissive, Winnie, in a car accident after they had an intense argument. Mariela, Winnie’s best friend, wants to help set him free and has come up with the perfect plan of seduction. Though she has long ago come to terms with the fact he could never have feelings for her beyond friendship, she can’t take his pain. Once she helps heal his wounds, she plans to set him free, but you know what they say about best laid plans. Soon, Marie’s carefully constructed plan burns out of control and it seems impossible she’ll come out of it without her heart broken.
I really enjoyed this story. Tara Sue Me always writes realistic BDSM scenes and this had two extremely endearing characters. I was engaged with them individually and their relationship. This was emotional because of the loss they both dealt with and that aspect was dealt with very well by the author, another well done read by her!
December 10, 2017
Sparks fly, emotions are at an all time high with Tara Sue Me's latest book in Lessons From The RACK series. The second edition produces two guilt ridden, broken souls who truly need each other to find the light. Headmaster is a steamy, naughty book that has all the right elements of a Tara Sue Me book that we all know and love.
Lennox MacLure, headmaster of RACK Academy has fought off his Dominant side ever since his girlfriend, submissive Winnie had a fatal car accident. He has punished himself for her accident ever since and has sworn off his Dominant nature. He has closed himself off from everyone around , however he feels a connected spirit to Winnie's bestfriend Mariela "Marie" who sparks his inner Dom.
"Marie was a beacon of light in his otherwise dark and dour world and he needed that light like plants needed the sun."
Marie has craved Lennox's Dominant hand even before her bestfriend took him as her Dom. Now, she finds herself working as the dance instructor for RACK with the man. She knows the power that is held within him, but if only she can unleash his dark side. Can she help him rid the guilt that is destroying his life?
We venture through their story through the eyes of Lennox and Marie, but we have glimpses of Winnie's inner thoughts as well. I really enjoyed those thoughts from her and to know her secrets that lay beneath. In all of Tara's books there is a BDSM current theme, however, within Headmaster, I would say it's on the lighter side. I am a huge fan of hers and this is like reading a Disney fairytale compared to some of her other novels of BDSM.
I hope the RACK Academy keeps producing more couples. I enjoy all books from this author.
**ARC provided by the publisher/Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
Lennox MacLure, headmaster of RACK Academy has fought off his Dominant side ever since his girlfriend, submissive Winnie had a fatal car accident. He has punished himself for her accident ever since and has sworn off his Dominant nature. He has closed himself off from everyone around , however he feels a connected spirit to Winnie's bestfriend Mariela "Marie" who sparks his inner Dom.
"Marie was a beacon of light in his otherwise dark and dour world and he needed that light like plants needed the sun."
Marie has craved Lennox's Dominant hand even before her bestfriend took him as her Dom. Now, she finds herself working as the dance instructor for RACK with the man. She knows the power that is held within him, but if only she can unleash his dark side. Can she help him rid the guilt that is destroying his life?
We venture through their story through the eyes of Lennox and Marie, but we have glimpses of Winnie's inner thoughts as well. I really enjoyed those thoughts from her and to know her secrets that lay beneath. In all of Tara's books there is a BDSM current theme, however, within Headmaster, I would say it's on the lighter side. I am a huge fan of hers and this is like reading a Disney fairytale compared to some of her other novels of BDSM.
I hope the RACK Academy keeps producing more couples. I enjoy all books from this author.
**ARC provided by the publisher/Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
January 16, 2018
Tara Sue Me, you slay me. This book is simply one of the most beautiful stories ever told. I have been in TEARS for the past hour. This one truly touched my soul. This book is everything, and I'm an emotional mess. Your words rocked my world.
This book. I loved it. It struck a chord deep in my soul. The story of these two left me holding my breath and crying tears. There is a scene that literally slayed me. It affected my heart, it affected my life. A beautifully written masterpiece, Ms. Sueme used rawly damaged characters to mend me back together. A perfect picture of two tortured souls enveloped in a frame of broken glass. The burning question, are those cracks enough to let light filter in for these two, or will the shards shred them until one or both simply bleed out?
Headmaster is the second book in the Lessons from the Rack series. Lennox and Mariela were introduced in book one, and I couldn’t wait to become intimately acquainted with both of them and their story. It’s a story of unrequited love and inner turmoil. With a history of loss and guilt, will their love bring freedom or is it yet just another road block in their already painful lives? This installment has us back at the RACK Academy for a new semester, and a new cast of characters. I love Ms. Sueme’s ability to pull me in, the world she weaves impeccably thought out, and the characters flawlessly written. I can’t wait to see what’s next on the syllabus for this faculty.
This book. I loved it. It struck a chord deep in my soul. The story of these two left me holding my breath and crying tears. There is a scene that literally slayed me. It affected my heart, it affected my life. A beautifully written masterpiece, Ms. Sueme used rawly damaged characters to mend me back together. A perfect picture of two tortured souls enveloped in a frame of broken glass. The burning question, are those cracks enough to let light filter in for these two, or will the shards shred them until one or both simply bleed out?
Headmaster is the second book in the Lessons from the Rack series. Lennox and Mariela were introduced in book one, and I couldn’t wait to become intimately acquainted with both of them and their story. It’s a story of unrequited love and inner turmoil. With a history of loss and guilt, will their love bring freedom or is it yet just another road block in their already painful lives? This installment has us back at the RACK Academy for a new semester, and a new cast of characters. I love Ms. Sueme’s ability to pull me in, the world she weaves impeccably thought out, and the characters flawlessly written. I can’t wait to see what’s next on the syllabus for this faculty.
October 1, 2017
The Headmaster could be a modern day Jane Eyre. Lennox is like Mr. Rochester, he has a painful past that prevents him from finding or even allowing himself love. His guilt is his punishment. Marie, his co-worker/friend has feelings for Lennox but knows they will never be together.
Except when a dream becomes a tangible message, a diary is found, a conversation happens and passion wraps around their painful reasons of not being together. A wonderful story by Tara Sue Me.
Except when a dream becomes a tangible message, a diary is found, a conversation happens and passion wraps around their painful reasons of not being together. A wonderful story by Tara Sue Me.
October 22, 2017
Lennox loses his girlfriend in a car accident and punishes himself for it since it was right after a argument the two had before the crash. Now having to be consoled by his girlfriends friend they ind themselves getting more invested then planned. Again Tara Sue me handles the this subject with wonderful writing and ease.
September 30, 2017
Tara Sue Me writes BDSM like no other. Her stories capture you and then the BDSM aspects are secondary to the plot of the story. I loved both Lenox & Marie in this story.
February 22, 2018
Review written by Marie for Ever After Book Reviews!
4.5 Stars!
When I started this book, I had mixed feelings about it. But, as someone who has to finish what I start, I can honestly say I’m really glad that I did, because this book ended up being really… quite good.
Lennox lost his wife in a car accident and blames himself for letting her leave on that fateful day after a heated argument. He won’t open himself up to anyone, let alone in the BDSM realm of his life as a dominant. But when his wife’s best friend, Mariela, makes it her mission to try and help him heal, she opens a whole new world of possibility for not only him, but also for herself… and together, them.
Most BDSM books don’t have a whole lot of substance. It’s all predictable with way too detailed, usually not all that hot, sex. I’ve even read a few books of Tara Sue Me’s that I’ve found to fall in that category. But Headmaster does not… at… all. This book takes you through so many emotions and Lennox and Mariela go through so much individually and collectively as they help one another heal. Their friendship goes through so much over the course of this book, and yet somehow manages to come out the other side so poetically. The sexual tension between these two is so intense, and when they finally give in to it, the pages of the book ignite with a searing passion that is erotic and HOT.
It’s nice to find a gem in the BDSM world, and I feel like I have with this book. This is one I’ll keep on my bookshelf to read again when I need a break from the monotony of others in this genre, for sure.
***I voluntarily read a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and feelings are my own***
4.5 Stars!
When I started this book, I had mixed feelings about it. But, as someone who has to finish what I start, I can honestly say I’m really glad that I did, because this book ended up being really… quite good.
Lennox lost his wife in a car accident and blames himself for letting her leave on that fateful day after a heated argument. He won’t open himself up to anyone, let alone in the BDSM realm of his life as a dominant. But when his wife’s best friend, Mariela, makes it her mission to try and help him heal, she opens a whole new world of possibility for not only him, but also for herself… and together, them.
Most BDSM books don’t have a whole lot of substance. It’s all predictable with way too detailed, usually not all that hot, sex. I’ve even read a few books of Tara Sue Me’s that I’ve found to fall in that category. But Headmaster does not… at… all. This book takes you through so many emotions and Lennox and Mariela go through so much individually and collectively as they help one another heal. Their friendship goes through so much over the course of this book, and yet somehow manages to come out the other side so poetically. The sexual tension between these two is so intense, and when they finally give in to it, the pages of the book ignite with a searing passion that is erotic and HOT.
It’s nice to find a gem in the BDSM world, and I feel like I have with this book. This is one I’ll keep on my bookshelf to read again when I need a break from the monotony of others in this genre, for sure.
***I voluntarily read a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and feelings are my own***
January 10, 2018
3.75 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 16, 2018
Lennox MacLure, owner of the RACK Academy, has sworn off the Dominant/submissive lifestyle. Years ago, his submissive, Winnie, died in a car accident following a heated argument for which he blames himself. Guilt-ridden and emotionally closed off, Lennox sees the academy as both his punishment and penance for her death.
Mariela, a dance instructor and a natural submissive, was Winnie’s best friend and longs to help Lennox move past his grief. She’s accepted that he will never see her as anything more than a friend, but she still wants to help him acknowledge what he needs. Mariela comes up with a plan of seduction, guaranteed to unleash the Dominant he’s willfully buried—but the passion they unleash could prove to be stronger than they are ready to handle.
••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars--HEADMASTER is the second instalment in Tara Sue Me’s contemporary, adult LESSONS FROM THE RACK, BDSM erotic, romance series focsing on the exclusive $ex academy The RACK. This is RACK owner and Dominant Lennox MacLure, and dancer/submissive Mariela’s story line. HEADMASTER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Lennox and Mariela were first introduced in book one The Professor –Fulton Matthews and Andie Lincoln’s story line.
NOTE: HEADMASTER is an erotic story with BDSM sexual situations that may not be suitable for all readers including caning and spanking.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Mariela and Lennox) HEADMASTER follows the building but struggling relationship between submissive and RACK dance instructor Mariela, and RACK owner and Dominant Lennox MacLure. Three years earlier Lennox fell in love with Mariela’s best friend-a woman far from submissive but a woman Lennox hoped to ease into the lifestyle he lived and worked. A tragic accident destroyed any hopes for a future leaving our story line hero in a world of guilt, grief and remorse. Fast forward to present day wherein submissive Mariela, a woman who has loved Lennox MacLure from afar, tries desperately to get Lennox to notice the woman in front of his eyes. A fractured friendship and palpable sexual attraction pulls our couple together but Lennox’s ongoing guilt over the loss of his previous sub continues to push our heroine out of his life. What ensues is the on again, off again D/s relationship between Lennox and Mariela, and the potential fall out when Lennox leaves to find what it is he has been avoiding all along.
HEADMASTER is a story of two people pulled together by circumstance and mutual loss; a relationship predicated on the BDSM lifestyle but a relationship that must endure one man’s ongoing grief and guilt over the death of someone he loves. Although there is no timeline on grief, Lennox is but a shell of his former self and refuses to accept his Dominant life. Mariela battles not only her feelings for, but the ongoing rejection of, the man that she loves, and in this the struggle to accept her undying devotion is questionable in the face of the constant rejection.
HEADMASTER is a roller coaster of emotions knowing the attraction between our leading couple is tempered by guilt and grief. Mariela continues to make herself available to a man who isn’t ready to move on from the past-a man who struggles with too many memories and a loss of motivation. The premise is imaginative and creative but there are some unresolved issues that got lost in the build up; the romance is highly sexual, erotic and intense; the characters are broken, dynamic and charismatic.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 16, 2018
Lennox MacLure, owner of the RACK Academy, has sworn off the Dominant/submissive lifestyle. Years ago, his submissive, Winnie, died in a car accident following a heated argument for which he blames himself. Guilt-ridden and emotionally closed off, Lennox sees the academy as both his punishment and penance for her death.
Mariela, a dance instructor and a natural submissive, was Winnie’s best friend and longs to help Lennox move past his grief. She’s accepted that he will never see her as anything more than a friend, but she still wants to help him acknowledge what he needs. Mariela comes up with a plan of seduction, guaranteed to unleash the Dominant he’s willfully buried—but the passion they unleash could prove to be stronger than they are ready to handle.
••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars--HEADMASTER is the second instalment in Tara Sue Me’s contemporary, adult LESSONS FROM THE RACK, BDSM erotic, romance series focsing on the exclusive $ex academy The RACK. This is RACK owner and Dominant Lennox MacLure, and dancer/submissive Mariela’s story line. HEADMASTER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Lennox and Mariela were first introduced in book one The Professor –Fulton Matthews and Andie Lincoln’s story line.
NOTE: HEADMASTER is an erotic story with BDSM sexual situations that may not be suitable for all readers including caning and spanking.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Mariela and Lennox) HEADMASTER follows the building but struggling relationship between submissive and RACK dance instructor Mariela, and RACK owner and Dominant Lennox MacLure. Three years earlier Lennox fell in love with Mariela’s best friend-a woman far from submissive but a woman Lennox hoped to ease into the lifestyle he lived and worked. A tragic accident destroyed any hopes for a future leaving our story line hero in a world of guilt, grief and remorse. Fast forward to present day wherein submissive Mariela, a woman who has loved Lennox MacLure from afar, tries desperately to get Lennox to notice the woman in front of his eyes. A fractured friendship and palpable sexual attraction pulls our couple together but Lennox’s ongoing guilt over the loss of his previous sub continues to push our heroine out of his life. What ensues is the on again, off again D/s relationship between Lennox and Mariela, and the potential fall out when Lennox leaves to find what it is he has been avoiding all along.
HEADMASTER is a story of two people pulled together by circumstance and mutual loss; a relationship predicated on the BDSM lifestyle but a relationship that must endure one man’s ongoing grief and guilt over the death of someone he loves. Although there is no timeline on grief, Lennox is but a shell of his former self and refuses to accept his Dominant life. Mariela battles not only her feelings for, but the ongoing rejection of, the man that she loves, and in this the struggle to accept her undying devotion is questionable in the face of the constant rejection.
HEADMASTER is a roller coaster of emotions knowing the attraction between our leading couple is tempered by guilt and grief. Mariela continues to make herself available to a man who isn’t ready to move on from the past-a man who struggles with too many memories and a loss of motivation. The premise is imaginative and creative but there are some unresolved issues that got lost in the build up; the romance is highly sexual, erotic and intense; the characters are broken, dynamic and charismatic.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
August 31, 2021
"He buried his nose in her hair and sniffed. She smelled like sex and sunshine, with a hint of lavender still lingering."
Before we get started on this review, with that ending, someone please tell me that there is a third book or a new series following up with that ending. PLEASE.
I am so glad that I actually enjoyed the second book more than the first one.
It feels like there was a 360 degree change.
In this plotline, we get more storytelling, more intense and interesting plotline, chemistry, emotional character development. I love it and enjoy it so much.
Can I also add, compared to the first one, this was much more spicy and fun. hehe.
Can't wait to read more of Tara Sue Me other books!
"Tears filled her eyes. How could he be so blind? Had she not basically thrown herself at him for the last three years? It hit her then - it was never going to happen between them. Never. They were never going to be together and she'd been counting on that fantasy for so long she didn't know how to live without it."
Before we get started on this review, with that ending, someone please tell me that there is a third book or a new series following up with that ending. PLEASE.
I am so glad that I actually enjoyed the second book more than the first one.
It feels like there was a 360 degree change.
In this plotline, we get more storytelling, more intense and interesting plotline, chemistry, emotional character development. I love it and enjoy it so much.
Can I also add, compared to the first one, this was much more spicy and fun. hehe.
Can't wait to read more of Tara Sue Me other books!
"Tears filled her eyes. How could he be so blind? Had she not basically thrown herself at him for the last three years? It hit her then - it was never going to happen between them. Never. They were never going to be together and she'd been counting on that fantasy for so long she didn't know how to live without it."
August 4, 2023
The MMC was so awful to the FMC for much of this book, I honestly don’t know how she stays in love with him for as long as she does. And I get he’s shouldering a lot of guilt over how his former sub who also happens to be the best friend of the FMC, died, but STILL, he was unnecessarily cruel at times.
January 18, 2018
3 Stars for Headmaster (Lessons from the Rack#2)
If you enjoy other books by this author, you will definitely enjoy The Headmaster.
Creating a perfect blend of emotion, love, loss, grief, self-blame, rediscovery sprinkled with a bit of BDSM the headmaster leads us through the journey of Lennox, Marie, Fulton, Andie, Terrance and Winnie. In a creative twist the author sets this story in a school that teaches D/S. Adding a unique twist into the story the author incorporates the world of dance. An interesting way to see how this is brought full circle.
The story relies heavily on the emotions of the characters. Layers of their pain, loss and confusion are peeled away slowly, creating a slow burn of anticipation. The story also relies heavily on the personality traits of each of the main characters. All find a way into your heart and make you want to know everything about them.
The male character is this book …. the Dom’s each hold that one character trait that buries itself deep within your mind. I found myself under their spells and can easily see how the author can continue the story giving Terrance and Fulton stories of their own.
Marie and Andie are as different as night and day but both characters are appealing and easy to relate to. It was Winnie who held the most intrigue. With a creative twist the author brings this character to life in the most haunting way. I truly enjoyed that aspect of the story.
An emotional story of friendship, letting go of the past and looking towards the future. The story is rich with emotion. It is the perfect example of the old saying, you never know what goes on behind closed doors. It exposes secrets from the past and exposes the truths of the present.
If you enjoy other books by this author, you will definitely enjoy The Headmaster.
Creating a perfect blend of emotion, love, loss, grief, self-blame, rediscovery sprinkled with a bit of BDSM the headmaster leads us through the journey of Lennox, Marie, Fulton, Andie, Terrance and Winnie. In a creative twist the author sets this story in a school that teaches D/S. Adding a unique twist into the story the author incorporates the world of dance. An interesting way to see how this is brought full circle.
The story relies heavily on the emotions of the characters. Layers of their pain, loss and confusion are peeled away slowly, creating a slow burn of anticipation. The story also relies heavily on the personality traits of each of the main characters. All find a way into your heart and make you want to know everything about them.
The male character is this book …. the Dom’s each hold that one character trait that buries itself deep within your mind. I found myself under their spells and can easily see how the author can continue the story giving Terrance and Fulton stories of their own.
Marie and Andie are as different as night and day but both characters are appealing and easy to relate to. It was Winnie who held the most intrigue. With a creative twist the author brings this character to life in the most haunting way. I truly enjoyed that aspect of the story.
An emotional story of friendship, letting go of the past and looking towards the future. The story is rich with emotion. It is the perfect example of the old saying, you never know what goes on behind closed doors. It exposes secrets from the past and exposes the truths of the present.
January 25, 2018
Tara Sue Me had me enthralled when I read her Submissive series, however this one left me wanting a bit. Somehow I missed the fact that there was a book in this series prior to Headmaster but it didn't require me to have read the other first.
I always learn a lot about the BDSM community from Tara Sue Me...the formalities, the rules, etc, but this one just left me kind of cold. There was very little warmth to any of this, except for a few intermittent sparks eluded to between Andie and Fulton, the subjects of the first book in this series. Otherwise I found Lennox and Mariela to be slightly wooden. Also, he called her Marie, but her name was Mariela. Why the difference? I actually found it confusing, because it doesn't sound like a nickname.
I read something about the author saying she didn't know if she could make these two find a happily ever after. I agree. It's as if she struggled with this story. I'll continue to read Ms. Sue Me's books but this one just didn't do it for me. Meh..... 2.5 stars
I always learn a lot about the BDSM community from Tara Sue Me...the formalities, the rules, etc, but this one just left me kind of cold. There was very little warmth to any of this, except for a few intermittent sparks eluded to between Andie and Fulton, the subjects of the first book in this series. Otherwise I found Lennox and Mariela to be slightly wooden. Also, he called her Marie, but her name was Mariela. Why the difference? I actually found it confusing, because it doesn't sound like a nickname.
I read something about the author saying she didn't know if she could make these two find a happily ever after. I agree. It's as if she struggled with this story. I'll continue to read Ms. Sue Me's books but this one just didn't do it for me. Meh..... 2.5 stars
May 21, 2023
It was a good storyline but.. was it actually written by someone in the community? I don’t think so
I didn’t find the characters relatable
This might be a perfect little flight book for someone but it was average for me sorry
I didn’t find the characters relatable
This might be a perfect little flight book for someone but it was average for me sorry
January 16, 2018
My very first from this author and it certainly won't be my last! Tara Sue Me has certainly cornered the market on sincere and touching stories involving the BDSM lifestyle. It was apparent she had done her research with respect to terms and the actions of a Dominant with his/her submissive. I was thrust into the world of the RACK Academy immediately within the first few pages of Headmaster and was intrigued every step of the way.
What sets this book apart from others in the genre is capability to mesh erotic fantasy seamlessly with true feeling. With both Mariela and Lennox still coming to grips with Winnie's death more than 3 years ago, theirs was a slow dance to finally be on the same page both physically and emotionally. Marie has had to keep her thoughts to herself when it came to Lennox but I loved her spirit and drive to make Lennox see her for more than just Winnie's friend.
Both had secrets to share with respect to their mutual love of Winnie and the pain they have endured because of her passing. But these two are more than well-suited both in and out of the bedroom. Their scenes as Master and Sub were extremely intense and very sexy. It was heartbreaking watching as Lennox tries to figure out his life when so much guilt has taken hold of his soul. But the fiery Marie wouldn't give up on him and with the help of her friend Andie and her Dom Fulton, these two may finally figure out just how perfect they are for one another.
I look forward to reading more of these engaging stories from this author and I have to say I really enjoyed this passionate respite that Headmaster provided. It is well-written and well worth a try.
4 solid stars!
What sets this book apart from others in the genre is capability to mesh erotic fantasy seamlessly with true feeling. With both Mariela and Lennox still coming to grips with Winnie's death more than 3 years ago, theirs was a slow dance to finally be on the same page both physically and emotionally. Marie has had to keep her thoughts to herself when it came to Lennox but I loved her spirit and drive to make Lennox see her for more than just Winnie's friend.
Both had secrets to share with respect to their mutual love of Winnie and the pain they have endured because of her passing. But these two are more than well-suited both in and out of the bedroom. Their scenes as Master and Sub were extremely intense and very sexy. It was heartbreaking watching as Lennox tries to figure out his life when so much guilt has taken hold of his soul. But the fiery Marie wouldn't give up on him and with the help of her friend Andie and her Dom Fulton, these two may finally figure out just how perfect they are for one another.
I look forward to reading more of these engaging stories from this author and I have to say I really enjoyed this passionate respite that Headmaster provided. It is well-written and well worth a try.
4 solid stars!
January 30, 2018
Soul mates
Lennox, was feeling restless about his choice, not to play, but felt this was his penance. He has excepted it, until Mariela, was done with his martyrdom and decided that either he was going to embrace his true self or they would lose themselves
Lennox, was feeling restless about his choice, not to play, but felt this was his penance. He has excepted it, until Mariela, was done with his martyrdom and decided that either he was going to embrace his true self or they would lose themselves
January 28, 2018
I love to read. I read many different kinds of books. Reading this book was like coming home. The last 2 books I read were by a new-to-me author and were difficult to read in parts, although good. This author I can count on always for an excellent read. The topic of most of her books includes BDSM, which can get rough, but her books always seem to have the most romantic of Doms and subs in them. I'm a sucker for a good romance and this one is one of the best. Reading it felt like soothing balm on my sensibilities. Plenty of kinky sex was included, but the heart of the story was about love, relationships, and being real. I can never get too much of that kind of story. Thank you Tara Sue Me for giving us such quality work.
January 17, 2018
Headmaster MacLure’s and Marie’s story was one I was really looking forward to from the first time they were mentioned in Master Professor. And Tara Sue Me didn’t disappoint in how twisted and heartbreaking their story is.
Lennox and Marie have a history with a tragic event that both binds them and tears them apart. But Marie has set her mind on showing Lennox that you cannot be happy when you close off your true self. In the way they both learn a lot about themselves, some huge misunderstandings from the past and what they really want from the future.
Of course it comes with some very nice and well thought through BDSM scenes that show how different the lifestyle is. Tara Sue Me has a beautiful writing style to capture people’s attention to details in such scenes that fit the characters and their current situation.
I love how Tara Sue Me is handling this new series and the characters she will further explore.
Lennox and Marie have a history with a tragic event that both binds them and tears them apart. But Marie has set her mind on showing Lennox that you cannot be happy when you close off your true self. In the way they both learn a lot about themselves, some huge misunderstandings from the past and what they really want from the future.
Of course it comes with some very nice and well thought through BDSM scenes that show how different the lifestyle is. Tara Sue Me has a beautiful writing style to capture people’s attention to details in such scenes that fit the characters and their current situation.
I love how Tara Sue Me is handling this new series and the characters she will further explore.
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