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Windsor Club #1
Tactical Submission
SWAT commander Jack Burnside is haunted by his craving to kneel before another man. Of all the things he hates about himself – his overtly masculine size and strength, his blue eyes, his insecurities – it is the need to submit that he fears will destroy him.
Doctor Isaac Bard is close to achieving his perfect life. He has a great job with the Coroner’s Office and an open marriage to a loving wife who understands his needs better than he does. The only thing he is missing is a handsome young man to dominate, spoil rotten, and love.
Jack and Isaac might be a perfect match in the back rooms of the exclusive Windsor Club, but will the outside pressures of perception and duty tear them apart?
Doctor Isaac Bard is close to achieving his perfect life. He has a great job with the Coroner’s Office and an open marriage to a loving wife who understands his needs better than he does. The only thing he is missing is a handsome young man to dominate, spoil rotten, and love.
Jack and Isaac might be a perfect match in the back rooms of the exclusive Windsor Club, but will the outside pressures of perception and duty tear them apart?
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2017
66 people are currently reading
727 people want to read
About the author
Ada Maria Soto
19 books270 followersA psychologist once told Ada Maria Soto that she has a fantasy prone personality. Fortunately, Ada grew up to become an author, so a life lived deep in her imagination fits her perfectly. As a Mexican-American expat living in the South Pacific with her partner and kid, her life is chaotically divided between being a writer, a publisher, and a parent.
Dysgraphia, phonological dyslexia, and ADHD makes for some exciting editing, but Ada continues to push through with a writing career. She’s a veteran of the theatre and television business, as well as all the lousy jobs that come with two liberal arts degrees.
Ada’s ability to capture the complex inner life of her characters in moving, yet relatable, ways endears readers to her unforgettable characters. Whether writing hot, spicy erotica or “tame” romances about asexual characters, she creates stories that readers return to again and again.
When not buried under manuscripts, Ada is a sports fan dedicated to the Oakland A’s, Auckland Blues, USA Eagles, and New Zealand Black Caps.
Dysgraphia, phonological dyslexia, and ADHD makes for some exciting editing, but Ada continues to push through with a writing career. She’s a veteran of the theatre and television business, as well as all the lousy jobs that come with two liberal arts degrees.
Ada’s ability to capture the complex inner life of her characters in moving, yet relatable, ways endears readers to her unforgettable characters. Whether writing hot, spicy erotica or “tame” romances about asexual characters, she creates stories that readers return to again and again.
When not buried under manuscripts, Ada is a sports fan dedicated to the Oakland A’s, Auckland Blues, USA Eagles, and New Zealand Black Caps.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
April 16, 2020
Wow this was incredibly good. I am blown away by how good this book was. The pacing of this story really worked well for me, as did the deep characterization and the dual POVs. The writing was just so damn good. It made me feel less alone, in so many ways it just quietly held so much of who I am, and I'm incredibly grateful for that, and quite verklempt about it.
Easily in the top three of any BDSM romance I've ever read. The BDSM was gorgeous and deeply realistic and just a tremendous joy to read. I love the slowly building pace of it, the way we got to really see the dominant think through what he was going to do, notice reactions, plan based on the submissive's responses, care about the impact of his actions, make mistakes, do his best to communicate and be careful and caring. I reveled in how deeply loving the BDSM was, and in the slow acceptance of that by the submissive.
The polyamory representation was the most realistic I have ever read. It felt like these folks could be people I knew, like it wasn't about a fantasy of polyamory, and wasn't solely about sex, but was really about loving multiple people. The bisexual representation was lovely, just quietly present and not at all the point, and never an issue or a question. The PTSD representation was spot on, so realistic and part of the character while not taking over the story.
My one issue is that the ending was a bit fast and abrupt. I wanted a bit more time with them, wanted a bit more of a sense of where they were going to end up, and just a bit more aftercare, really, at the end of a very kinky story.
This is my standout surprise star of my reading this year. I had no idea it would be so incredibly good, have never read this author before (though I will now be devouring her backlist), and am kind of shocked that I haven't heard more buzz about this book. I wish I could recall who recommended this to me because I want to thank them profusely.
I very much appreciated the content warnings in the authors note. Here are mine:
Trigger Warnings:
Easily in the top three of any BDSM romance I've ever read. The BDSM was gorgeous and deeply realistic and just a tremendous joy to read. I love the slowly building pace of it, the way we got to really see the dominant think through what he was going to do, notice reactions, plan based on the submissive's responses, care about the impact of his actions, make mistakes, do his best to communicate and be careful and caring. I reveled in how deeply loving the BDSM was, and in the slow acceptance of that by the submissive.
The polyamory representation was the most realistic I have ever read. It felt like these folks could be people I knew, like it wasn't about a fantasy of polyamory, and wasn't solely about sex, but was really about loving multiple people. The bisexual representation was lovely, just quietly present and not at all the point, and never an issue or a question. The PTSD representation was spot on, so realistic and part of the character while not taking over the story.
My one issue is that the ending was a bit fast and abrupt. I wanted a bit more time with them, wanted a bit more of a sense of where they were going to end up, and just a bit more aftercare, really, at the end of a very kinky story.
This is my standout surprise star of my reading this year. I had no idea it would be so incredibly good, have never read this author before (though I will now be devouring her backlist), and am kind of shocked that I haven't heard more buzz about this book. I wish I could recall who recommended this to me because I want to thank them profusely.
I very much appreciated the content warnings in the authors note. Here are mine:
Trigger Warnings:
January 13, 2018
Sometime ago someone tried to explain to me what a D/s relationship means in reality and although I understood the words they were not fleshed out especially as I can only flesh these out through books and the books I've read did not show what my acquaintance was telling me.
I was impressed by Soto's His Quiet Agent and chose this as my second read of hers. She did not disappoint. Moreover whilst reading that D/s explanation about how the power is all in the hands of the 's' and how the dynamic works kept flashing through my mind as I kept reading. Kind of flesh coming onto those sterile words.
Soto's take is different from the other BDSM books I read, she steps out of the roleplay and gets into the dynamics of how it all works, whilst giving us dual pov's for better understanding to boot. So this is recommended to those interested in the whys rather than those who just need the fantasies.
I was impressed by Soto's His Quiet Agent and chose this as my second read of hers. She did not disappoint. Moreover whilst reading that D/s explanation about how the power is all in the hands of the 's' and how the dynamic works kept flashing through my mind as I kept reading. Kind of flesh coming onto those sterile words.
Soto's take is different from the other BDSM books I read, she steps out of the roleplay and gets into the dynamics of how it all works, whilst giving us dual pov's for better understanding to boot. So this is recommended to those interested in the whys rather than those who just need the fantasies.
July 28, 2019
If you're a fan of BDSM then you'll like this one. I enjoyed it but wished for more relationship development outside of the bedroom.
November 19, 2017
(First time doing a full review so please bare with me)
** 4 Stars **
We start the book in the posh, secretive BDSM Windsor Club where our two MCs are members. Forensic pathologist Isaac Bard is an experienced Dom of five foot seven who has a preference larger and stronger Submissives.
"Being a five foot seven Dom had gotten him slapped with the word 'should' more than once as well. He hated the word should."
In comes SWAT commander Jack Burnside - who Isaac has met on multiple work occasions prior - over six feet and muscular with some serious preconceptions about himself and Dom/sub relationships as a whole. The kind that make a man break down during his first scene in over a year:
"He couldn't remember the last time he had cried. Years perhaps, slowly built up and set free by Isaac's kind words. Too kind."
I think Jack is my favourite of the two: a touch-starved SWAT commander over six feet who has an obsession with coffee, spent his youth working for a group of pagan lesbians, been told he's a dumb jock his whole life and struggles with his need for submission.
From the first chapter, you can understand that this isn't your average MM D/s story that is sex, sex and more sex (though trust me there's heaps) with loose BDSM practices. Tactical Submission is one of the most accurate BDSM novels I have read to date with it's negotiations, lack of emphasis on just getting straight to penetrative sex, healthy (and necessary) discussions and an equal relationship between the participants.
However, I found it difficult to connect with Isaac and his open relationship with his wife, Amelie, but that is probably due to the fact that I haven't been shown many healthy situations like this, especially in MM. Their dynamics are awesome and very sweet. We mostly see Amelie with her girlfriend who's she's been with as long as Isaac. There is no MF sex yet they kiss and sleep in the same bed.
If you're a MM fan who loves some realistic BDSM with heaps of feelings, Tactical Submission is for you. Hope for another book in the series to continue their story.
Some kink highlights: Jack's uncontrolled reaction to a steel cock cage, the rope work, the wall-suction dildo and the multiple orgasms sessions.
** 4 Stars **
We start the book in the posh, secretive BDSM Windsor Club where our two MCs are members. Forensic pathologist Isaac Bard is an experienced Dom of five foot seven who has a preference larger and stronger Submissives.
"Being a five foot seven Dom had gotten him slapped with the word 'should' more than once as well. He hated the word should."
In comes SWAT commander Jack Burnside - who Isaac has met on multiple work occasions prior - over six feet and muscular with some serious preconceptions about himself and Dom/sub relationships as a whole. The kind that make a man break down during his first scene in over a year:
"He couldn't remember the last time he had cried. Years perhaps, slowly built up and set free by Isaac's kind words. Too kind."
I think Jack is my favourite of the two: a touch-starved SWAT commander over six feet who has an obsession with coffee, spent his youth working for a group of pagan lesbians, been told he's a dumb jock his whole life and struggles with his need for submission.
From the first chapter, you can understand that this isn't your average MM D/s story that is sex, sex and more sex (though trust me there's heaps) with loose BDSM practices. Tactical Submission is one of the most accurate BDSM novels I have read to date with it's negotiations, lack of emphasis on just getting straight to penetrative sex, healthy (and necessary) discussions and an equal relationship between the participants.
However, I found it difficult to connect with Isaac and his open relationship with his wife, Amelie, but that is probably due to the fact that I haven't been shown many healthy situations like this, especially in MM. Their dynamics are awesome and very sweet. We mostly see Amelie with her girlfriend who's she's been with as long as Isaac. There is no MF sex yet they kiss and sleep in the same bed.
If you're a MM fan who loves some realistic BDSM with heaps of feelings, Tactical Submission is for you. Hope for another book in the series to continue their story.
Some kink highlights: Jack's uncontrolled reaction to a steel cock cage, the rope work, the wall-suction dildo and the multiple orgasms sessions.
April 12, 2018
It took about 80% into the story for this book to finally hit its stride. Prior to that time, there are too many long, highly detailed sex scenes to the great detriment of both charcter and plot development. Jack has zero personality. Aside from a few sentences spoken to his friend in SWAT, he is reduced to an almost automaton with grunts, "please", and "yes, sir" as the extent of his interection. In the last 20% of the book we finally begin to see a hint of sentient being, but not one that in any way explains his connection to Isaac beyond the sex.
I expect BDSM books to contain detailed sex scenes, and for the first couple of those to have a level of detached feeling between the Dom and sub. Unfortunately, in this book the concentration is entirely on the step-by-step action of the scenes with zero development of emotional connection, unless you count "I want to wrap him up and feed him soup." These characters had so much poetential. Jack could have been human if he'd been allowed more original thought and dialogue. A major part of Isaac's character sketch, Amalie, is never given any reason to be there. No part of the plot would have suffered without her, which is usually a sign to an author to remove a character altogether from a story.
I have to assume there will be another book with Jack and Isaac still as the main characters. If there is, I will read it because that last 20% made me not give up on them. If there is not a sequel heavily featuring Jack and Isaac, I have to say that this book was utterly pointless.
I expect BDSM books to contain detailed sex scenes, and for the first couple of those to have a level of detached feeling between the Dom and sub. Unfortunately, in this book the concentration is entirely on the step-by-step action of the scenes with zero development of emotional connection, unless you count "I want to wrap him up and feed him soup." These characters had so much poetential. Jack could have been human if he'd been allowed more original thought and dialogue. A major part of Isaac's character sketch, Amalie, is never given any reason to be there. No part of the plot would have suffered without her, which is usually a sign to an author to remove a character altogether from a story.
I have to assume there will be another book with Jack and Isaac still as the main characters. If there is, I will read it because that last 20% made me not give up on them. If there is not a sequel heavily featuring Jack and Isaac, I have to say that this book was utterly pointless.
November 13, 2017
VERY enjoyable. Awesome BDSM / Ds scenes. Fippin’ adore Jack and Issac. Cannot wait for the next one in the series.
August 18, 2018
*A copy of this was provided by the author
Reviewed for From Top to Bottom Reviews
Ada Maria Soto is still a relatively new-to-me author because I’ve only read His Quiet Agent by her – which I absolutely adored! To say that His Quiet Agent and Tactical Submission are completely different would probably be the understatement of the year. Still, the author managed to charm me again.
It took me a bit to get into the book because in the beginning it jumped from one meeting between Isaac and Jack to the next one – sometimes there would be more than a week in-between – and I couldn’t easily get a feel for both characters. I didn’t notice when exactly it happened but soon I was enthralled by these characters and their dynamic. They had the right amount of differences that really made the story work for me. Those little details that really bring a character to life were what especially stood out for me. How Isaac became attuned to Jack and would easily change course if something wasn’t working.
I should preface this by saying that I have no experience with kink or BDSM, so I can’t say how accurate the portrayal in this book is. However I really liked that – different to some other BDSM-themed books I’ve read – that penetrative sex wasn’t the most important thing for Isaac when he first meets Jack. Even if it makes Jack uncomfortable he talks about the scenes beforehand and Isaac doesn’t push Jack’s boundaries until he signals him that he is okay with certain things.
Out of the two main characters I liked Jack a bit more. (My fave though was Dan, who doesn’t even have that much page time but he was – to me – one of those side characters that just have such a charisma that you just know they need their own book!) Back to Jack though: I really loved his little quirks – like when he just has to rearrange Isaacs books by the Library of Congress Catalogue System because it really bothers him. Or how he has an obsession with good coffee ever since he worked in a café when he was an adolescent. It takes a bit until the reader finds out more about his past than that he was in the army, but I really liked that Jack was a bit of a mystery until the end of the book, and it kept me turning the pages even faster.
Jack struggles with his needs, how they compare to his job as a SWAT commander and what it means for his “manliness” when he feels most comfortable being on the knees for another man. He is also not out – neither at his job nor in is private life – and fears what it could mean to run into someone from the Windsor Club.
When I first got the copy of this I somehow thought that the story would be heavier. It’s unquestionably not a “light” story but it’s also not as dark as I thought it would be. Mostly because, while there are lots of scenes in this book, they didn’t feature a lot of whips and canes or other pain play. Isaac is more into overstimulation by making his sub come several times in a row. Something that really works with what Jack wants, because he doesn’t want to play in a way that can leave marks.
Something I mentioned in several status updates on goodreads – and what has to be mentioned here too – is how much I loved the bi- and poly rep in this story. The focus is definitely on Isaac and Jack, but we also meet Amalie, Isaac’s wife, and her girlfriend Lydia. (I would totally love to have their story too!) And – similar to Outside the Lines, which I recently reviewed – Jack is not only with Isaac but also has a (platonic) relationship with Amalie and meets up with her without Isaac being present.
For all the built-up and conflict I found the end to be a bit fast. I would have liked another chapter for a bit more closure. The characters are at a happy place when the book ends, but it seemed a bit abrupt. That’s about the only complaint I have for Tactical Submission though and I am really looking forward to the two spin-off sequels the author talked about on twitter!
(Please note the trigger warning for domestic terrorism that takes place in chapter 30)
Reviewed for From Top to Bottom Reviews
Ada Maria Soto is still a relatively new-to-me author because I’ve only read His Quiet Agent by her – which I absolutely adored! To say that His Quiet Agent and Tactical Submission are completely different would probably be the understatement of the year. Still, the author managed to charm me again.
It took me a bit to get into the book because in the beginning it jumped from one meeting between Isaac and Jack to the next one – sometimes there would be more than a week in-between – and I couldn’t easily get a feel for both characters. I didn’t notice when exactly it happened but soon I was enthralled by these characters and their dynamic. They had the right amount of differences that really made the story work for me. Those little details that really bring a character to life were what especially stood out for me. How Isaac became attuned to Jack and would easily change course if something wasn’t working.
I should preface this by saying that I have no experience with kink or BDSM, so I can’t say how accurate the portrayal in this book is. However I really liked that – different to some other BDSM-themed books I’ve read – that penetrative sex wasn’t the most important thing for Isaac when he first meets Jack. Even if it makes Jack uncomfortable he talks about the scenes beforehand and Isaac doesn’t push Jack’s boundaries until he signals him that he is okay with certain things.
Out of the two main characters I liked Jack a bit more. (My fave though was Dan, who doesn’t even have that much page time but he was – to me – one of those side characters that just have such a charisma that you just know they need their own book!) Back to Jack though: I really loved his little quirks – like when he just has to rearrange Isaacs books by the Library of Congress Catalogue System because it really bothers him. Or how he has an obsession with good coffee ever since he worked in a café when he was an adolescent. It takes a bit until the reader finds out more about his past than that he was in the army, but I really liked that Jack was a bit of a mystery until the end of the book, and it kept me turning the pages even faster.
Jack struggles with his needs, how they compare to his job as a SWAT commander and what it means for his “manliness” when he feels most comfortable being on the knees for another man. He is also not out – neither at his job nor in is private life – and fears what it could mean to run into someone from the Windsor Club.
When I first got the copy of this I somehow thought that the story would be heavier. It’s unquestionably not a “light” story but it’s also not as dark as I thought it would be. Mostly because, while there are lots of scenes in this book, they didn’t feature a lot of whips and canes or other pain play. Isaac is more into overstimulation by making his sub come several times in a row. Something that really works with what Jack wants, because he doesn’t want to play in a way that can leave marks.
Something I mentioned in several status updates on goodreads – and what has to be mentioned here too – is how much I loved the bi- and poly rep in this story. The focus is definitely on Isaac and Jack, but we also meet Amalie, Isaac’s wife, and her girlfriend Lydia. (I would totally love to have their story too!) And – similar to Outside the Lines, which I recently reviewed – Jack is not only with Isaac but also has a (platonic) relationship with Amalie and meets up with her without Isaac being present.
For all the built-up and conflict I found the end to be a bit fast. I would have liked another chapter for a bit more closure. The characters are at a happy place when the book ends, but it seemed a bit abrupt. That’s about the only complaint I have for Tactical Submission though and I am really looking forward to the two spin-off sequels the author talked about on twitter!
(Please note the trigger warning for domestic terrorism that takes place in chapter 30)
September 30, 2018
This practically amounted to BDSM 101 + Poly 101 + Psych 101 rolled into one. And it sucked donkey balls of boredom.
Much of it was incomprehensible to me, such as the utter horror Jack experienced as being "found out", despite the fact that "50 Shades" was a phenomenon long past when it was written, and despite the fact that the basic club idea actually pushed the notion that there are kinksters at all levels of society.
Much of it bored me to distraction, in particular the erotic and BDSM components, and these shouldn't have been boring - for a successful erotic romance. At the end of the day these play scenes read like someone using technical BDSM descriptions, taking the average descriptions of psychological impact and problems of BDSM and mix-mashing those into some sauce which doesn't know whether it wants to be a BDSM primer, or an erotic romance.
Meh. I don't need to be instructed about "good BDSM", all I need is a book to be about either acceptable, realistic BDSM or acknowledge where it veers off that route.
There also was far too much sex/play scenes in this. You'd be left with a novella, a shortish one, if you took all of it out. For a story of that length, 2-3 sex scenes and the same amount of play scenes would have entirely sufficed. Also, please no scenes that boring encompassing dozens of pages.
Ditto how poly was presented here. While certainly closer to what plays out in reality, it left out all the hard parts and everyone came across as far too goody-two-shoes. Poly rarely ever is that facile and good-natured.
The resolution of the thriller/crime part was... cinematic in a bad way.
So, the two stars represent a solid feeling of MEH!
November 11, 2017
I enjoyed this book. But I feel like we only have about 5% of these delightful characters. I hope we learn more about them in successive books.
November 20, 2017
This book was recommended to me, and am I glad I listened. This was quite different from most of the BDSM themed books I’ve read for a few reasons, some of which really added to my enjoyment of the story.
Jack is a SWAT Commander, who is good at his job, but he has a lot of trouble keeping his mind clear and his body at peace when not on the job. This is a big bone of contention for him, as he really doesn’t like the fact that he needs certain things, like to submit. He’s a big guy, and this has also caused him problems – he isn’t the typical looking sub. Due to his fear of anyone in his line of work finding out about his activities, he has gotten by with holding off as long as he can and seeking scenes with anonymous doms, most of which have not treated him as well as they should. He finally decided to give Windsor Club a try, which is where he meets Isaac.
Isaac is pretty unique. He is married to his best friend, who is also in a long-term relationship with another woman. They are both very happy with the arrangement and all three hope Isaac will be able to find his own long-term relationship with a sub to complete their group. Isaac quickly steps in when he sees Jack and that a questionable dom is about to make a move on Jack. What I really loved about Isaac was how he handled Jack. He was so aware of Jack having issues and easily found ways to work around them and to help Jack find the peace he was seeking.
Jack and Isaac seem perfect for each other, both understanding the pulls and commitments of their jobs, etc. Unfortunately, before things can really get comfortable with these two, events involving Jack’s work put a major wrench in their plans. It doesn’t take too terribly long before things get straightened out, but it is a bit of a hard road for both of them until they do.
This story contains a lot of scenes, but they are interesting and a focal point of Jack and Isaac’s relationship, though they do share more beyond the BDSM. Isaac really is a breath of fresh air in this regard, and I really enjoyed watching him find and show Jack things about himself that he never gave himself enough of a chance to find out on his own. It ends rather abruptly with a strong HFN, and I really hope their story continues in future Windsor Club stories. This was my first book by this author, but I’m definitely looking forward to reading more, especially in this series! Recommended for those who like to see something a little different in a BDSM story.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
December 12, 2017
This author is a new-to-me author and after seeing rave reviews for this book, I decided to give it a shot. There's a lot to love about the characters, and this book features a BDSM, D/s, and poly relationship. Jack is a SWAT commander who is looking for release and for someone who can give that to him. Jack needs someplace away from anyone who might know him and with Windsor's rigorous screening, Jack was sure that he couldn't possibly know anyone who might frequent the club. But then he spots Isaac. Isaac is a doctor with the Coroner's office and both he and Jack have crossed paths in the courtroom giving their testimonies.
I really like that there's a lot of communication between Jack and Isaac about how scenes are going to go, and we get to see how caring Isaac is as the Dom in their arrangement. It's revealed quite early on that Isaac is married to a lovely woman named Amalie. Amalie is also very close to a woman named Lydia, who Isaac is good friends with. Their relationship works, and Isaac is more or less content with their relationship now. But that doesn't mean that Isaac doesn't want someone to himself as well. I loved seeing that everyone got along so well with one another, and adds something to the relationships in their own way.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story. There were very lengthy sex scenes, but I feel like I wanted more of the character's day-to-day life. Like, just more Jack as the SWAT commander, or hanging out with the other SWAT commanders, Dan and Gonzales. The ending was incredibly rushed, I think. I'm not sure if this series would feature the same characters as leads more than once, but I would absolutely love to see the story continue with Jack and Isaac and see how all of that turns out.
I really like that there's a lot of communication between Jack and Isaac about how scenes are going to go, and we get to see how caring Isaac is as the Dom in their arrangement. It's revealed quite early on that Isaac is married to a lovely woman named Amalie. Amalie is also very close to a woman named Lydia, who Isaac is good friends with. Their relationship works, and Isaac is more or less content with their relationship now. But that doesn't mean that Isaac doesn't want someone to himself as well. I loved seeing that everyone got along so well with one another, and adds something to the relationships in their own way.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story. There were very lengthy sex scenes, but I feel like I wanted more of the character's day-to-day life. Like, just more Jack as the SWAT commander, or hanging out with the other SWAT commanders, Dan and Gonzales. The ending was incredibly rushed, I think. I'm not sure if this series would feature the same characters as leads more than once, but I would absolutely love to see the story continue with Jack and Isaac and see how all of that turns out.
December 22, 2019
One of the best BDSM romances I've ever read. Isaac was so tuned in to Jack and his needs. It was incredible. Their relationship built so organically, starting first at an exclusive club and then moving to Isaac’s home. In addition to exploring kink, the story does a great job of illustrating a polyamorous relationship. Isaac and his wife Amalie have an open marriage and she has a girlfriend Lydia. While the story centers around Isaac and Jack, we also get to see Isaac at home with Amalie, as well as glimpses of Amalie and Lydia. Just as Jack has to work on accepting his need for submission, as well as his ideas around what constitutes as masculinity, he has to adjust to the idea of a poly relationship. Isaac is so patient with him throughout and does a great job of reiterating and respecting boundaries.
There’s a great bit of book nerdery as Jack’s father was a librarian and he’s compelled to organize books, even those belonging to someone else, according to the Library of Congress Catalog System. As always, I took great joy in Murrcat, Isaac and Amalie’s cat, who provided great comedic relief. I love that cat.
My only wish is that the ending hadn’t been so abrupt, especially given what they had just experienced. It would have been good to see more of them reconnecting and processing not only what their relationship went through but the circumstances that brought them back together.
CW: house explosion (not belonging to main characters), references to autopsies and ways of dying, SWAT team raids, references to meth labs and drug houses, active shooter situation, domestic terrorism, references to team members getting injured or killed, military training references, anxiety, PTSD, fear of being outed, reference to a past patient who died
There’s a great bit of book nerdery as Jack’s father was a librarian and he’s compelled to organize books, even those belonging to someone else, according to the Library of Congress Catalog System. As always, I took great joy in Murrcat, Isaac and Amalie’s cat, who provided great comedic relief. I love that cat.
My only wish is that the ending hadn’t been so abrupt, especially given what they had just experienced. It would have been good to see more of them reconnecting and processing not only what their relationship went through but the circumstances that brought them back together.
CW: house explosion (not belonging to main characters), references to autopsies and ways of dying, SWAT team raids, references to meth labs and drug houses, active shooter situation, domestic terrorism, references to team members getting injured or killed, military training references, anxiety, PTSD, fear of being outed, reference to a past patient who died
April 21, 2019
4 and 1/2 Stars. This was an excellent book. The story was compelling. I loved the main characters. I loved the BDSM elements.
I noticed that some people are turned off because the main character is in an open marriage. This didn’t bother me but if it bothers you I wouldn’t recommend this book.
I noticed that some people are turned off because the main character is in an open marriage. This didn’t bother me but if it bothers you I wouldn’t recommend this book.
October 1, 2018
Really enjoyed the D/s aspects of this book which consumes nearly 75%. The story and relationship with Amalie and Lydia however was not well described nor understood. And the SWAT team aspects were lacking. Still worth the read as I loved their connections but overall this abruptly ended with some unresolved aspects. I am hoping for a follow up with Dan.
August 13, 2018
Really good, with some caveats
The kink in this story was fantastic. The Dom was careful and caring, yet willing to do what the sub needed, despite the sub being uncertain himself of what that was. There’s a list in the front of the book of what kinds of kink there were and possible triggers, which I thought was a great idea.
Now for the caveats. First, the Dom is married. That���s really not an issue for me, since they are both open and communicate well, and she has a committed lover herself. Still, I could see that stopping some people from enjoying it. There are no sex scenes at all involving the wife. This is not a ménage.
Where my rating went down slightly was the proofing, or lack of it. It really takes me out of the story to read “collard” instead of “collared,” “steal” instead of “steel,” “self-conscience” instead of “self-conscious,” and so on. If I hadn’t enjoyed the story/kink so much, I would have taken the rating down further for that. **edited to add that the book has apparently been corrected, but the file was wrong for KU - that has purportedly been fixed now!!**
Also, it ends with the promise of more, but it would have been really nice to see an epilogue where things actually are settled and happy.
Despite my quibbles, though, I’d still recommend this book to people who love kink. That aspect of it was great.
The kink in this story was fantastic. The Dom was careful and caring, yet willing to do what the sub needed, despite the sub being uncertain himself of what that was. There’s a list in the front of the book of what kinds of kink there were and possible triggers, which I thought was a great idea.
Now for the caveats. First, the Dom is married. That���s really not an issue for me, since they are both open and communicate well, and she has a committed lover herself. Still, I could see that stopping some people from enjoying it. There are no sex scenes at all involving the wife. This is not a ménage.
Where my rating went down slightly was the proofing, or lack of it. It really takes me out of the story to read “collard” instead of “collared,” “steal” instead of “steel,” “self-conscience” instead of “self-conscious,” and so on. If I hadn’t enjoyed the story/kink so much, I would have taken the rating down further for that. **edited to add that the book has apparently been corrected, but the file was wrong for KU - that has purportedly been fixed now!!**
Also, it ends with the promise of more, but it would have been really nice to see an epilogue where things actually are settled and happy.
Despite my quibbles, though, I’d still recommend this book to people who love kink. That aspect of it was great.
no-thanks
November 20, 2017Note to self: MC in an open marriage. Stay away.
August 15, 2018
Sequel! I want a sequel!
I’ll try to make sense of my review notes but honestly? They’re mostly “mmm yes!” And I don’t even mean that in the sexual sense. While this is an erotica and there is a lot of sex there… there somehow isn’t at the same time even though there is.
Hah. I don’t even understand myself, how are you’re supposed to? Okay, I’ll try again. There are a lot of sexual scenes in Tactical Submission. Too many for my taste. But what makes it special is that these scenes manage to make me believe Isaac and Jack’s relationship and how they fall for each other. Simply because they are so character-driven instead of “and they fucked”.
Speaking of characters. I’m unable to decide on a favourite. If I had to I’d chose Amelie because she is so awesome and fleshed out even though she is only a minor character. But I love Jack and Lydia and Isaac and Dan as well! And the Coven even though they don’t even have a speaking part – I’m still very sad about this.
A thing with most bdsm stories (and non bdsm m/m ones as well – let’s be honest) is that the taller guy is the more muscular is the dominating is the topping guy. And while I like these guys as dominant tops, I like them as submissive bottoms and every area between, too. Jack and Isaac are wonderful in breaking through clichés. Jack especially is not what you expect.
(…) but he learned early on that being a Dom had nothing to do with height and everything to do with frame of mind ~ kindle pos. 88
Communication? Check.
Introspection (or somewhat shrink kink-y – you know what I’m talking about if you’ve read a certain polyam bdsm universe)? Check.
Gentle domination? Check.
What’s not to like?
Last Words: There will be a sequel!
I’ll try to make sense of my review notes but honestly? They’re mostly “mmm yes!” And I don’t even mean that in the sexual sense. While this is an erotica and there is a lot of sex there… there somehow isn’t at the same time even though there is.
Hah. I don’t even understand myself, how are you’re supposed to? Okay, I’ll try again. There are a lot of sexual scenes in Tactical Submission. Too many for my taste. But what makes it special is that these scenes manage to make me believe Isaac and Jack’s relationship and how they fall for each other. Simply because they are so character-driven instead of “and they fucked”.
Speaking of characters. I’m unable to decide on a favourite. If I had to I’d chose Amelie because she is so awesome and fleshed out even though she is only a minor character. But I love Jack and Lydia and Isaac and Dan as well! And the Coven even though they don’t even have a speaking part – I’m still very sad about this.
A thing with most bdsm stories (and non bdsm m/m ones as well – let’s be honest) is that the taller guy is the more muscular is the dominating is the topping guy. And while I like these guys as dominant tops, I like them as submissive bottoms and every area between, too. Jack and Isaac are wonderful in breaking through clichés. Jack especially is not what you expect.
(…) but he learned early on that being a Dom had nothing to do with height and everything to do with frame of mind ~ kindle pos. 88
Communication? Check.
Introspection (or somewhat shrink kink-y – you know what I’m talking about if you’ve read a certain polyam bdsm universe)? Check.
Gentle domination? Check.
What’s not to like?
Last Words: There will be a sequel!
February 8, 2019
There is a lot of hot, kinky sex in this, an unbelievable amount of it actually even if these guys had been teenagers instead of middle aged men.
These guys do very little communicating or getting to know each other. Jack sinks into subspace almost before the scenes even begin which was hard to buy into. Add in lots of secrets and the unnecessary separation that was just drama llama thrown in instead of getting to the meat of the relationship and actually doing the work to show us how that relationship could work with the other orbiting relationships. After reading His Quiet Agent, I know AMS can do this but didn't. The ending was insufficient as well. I did not leave this book feeling like the story ended where it should have.
This is titled as a series, if there is more planned for Isaac and Jack, I'd be interested to read it because as it stands I'm not convinced.
These guys do very little communicating or getting to know each other. Jack sinks into subspace almost before the scenes even begin which was hard to buy into. Add in lots of secrets and the unnecessary separation that was just drama llama thrown in instead of getting to the meat of the relationship and actually doing the work to show us how that relationship could work with the other orbiting relationships. After reading His Quiet Agent, I know AMS can do this but didn't. The ending was insufficient as well. I did not leave this book feeling like the story ended where it should have.
This is titled as a series, if there is more planned for Isaac and Jack, I'd be interested to read it because as it stands I'm not convinced.
dnf
November 18, 2017DNF at 66%. I loved "His Quiet Agent" by this author and really liked the "Nested Hearts" books but this one here is just not for me. I tend to skim read lengthy sex scenes so I started doing that after the first one. After 35% I started skipping them altogether until I realised that I was basically skipping more than half the text if not more. I'm sure other people will love this book because there is no doubt that this author can write but I have to admit that I was getting bored out of my skull. There is a secondary plot that may or may not turn interesting yet but I really can't be bothered to find out. Sorry, little book. I'm sure others will love you.
January 19, 2018
It was very interesting and unique book! The BDSM aspect was very realistic and not focused entirely on physical contact, although the 70% of the book is about BDSM scenes, so there's a lot of sex!!! but was more about communication, trust and care. I love how the pace was slowly built up, how important was the responsibility and self-control of the dominant and how strong and gorgeous was hidden power of the submissive.
I was a little disappointed by abrupt ending and no time for aftercare at all!
The polyamory relationship was realistic, but still not satisfying for me enough, since there was no sex between Isaac and his wife at all. I felt for most of the time like there were just two friends living together.
I was a little disappointed by abrupt ending and no time for aftercare at all!
The polyamory relationship was realistic, but still not satisfying for me enough, since there was no sex between Isaac and his wife at all. I felt for most of the time like there were just two friends living together.
September 16, 2018
So much sex, which I’m usually okay with, but I didn’t feel like I knew the characters until the end and by then, the book was done.
December 27, 2017
This was a really good exploration of a D/s relationship from a new-to-me author. I loved Jack and Isaac. They were two imperfect people who were perfect for each other.
The BDSM was beautiful, sexy, panty-melting at times, and really showed the growth of their relationship. Jack was stunted before he found Isaac. Hiding who he was because society said he should be one thing, when all he wanted to be was something else. And Isaac was searching. Trying to find the last piece of his puzzle. Someone to complete himself and his family, which includes his wife and her lover. And, as I said, neither of these men are perfect. They make mistakes but they work through them together,
This book is the beginning of a series and I find it hard to rate this higher when I still have so many questions. I'm not sure if the next book will focus on these characters again. I kind of wish it would as Jack and Isaac only get a tentative HFN here, and they deserve so much more.
Isaac has a wonderful wife, who also has a lover. They are in an open relationship because they are both aware that there are certain things they can't give each other. And it's quite clear that each relationship is completely separated to Isaac and Amalia's marriage. They aren't sharing lovers. I wish this had been explored, or explained more, because we NEVER see anything other than a best friend vibe between Isaac and Amalia. They are hardly on page together, and never in a sexual way.
Because I really liked this I wanted more. I wanted the HEA, not the HFN. I wanted to know how Jack and Isaac manoeuvre themselves around to be together when there's really 4 people in their relationship. Maybe we'll see glimpses of them throughout the series?? I hope so.
I'm also really interested in Dan, who was a subtle surprise and who I do think we'll be seeing next.
The BDSM was beautiful, sexy, panty-melting at times, and really showed the growth of their relationship. Jack was stunted before he found Isaac. Hiding who he was because society said he should be one thing, when all he wanted to be was something else. And Isaac was searching. Trying to find the last piece of his puzzle. Someone to complete himself and his family, which includes his wife and her lover. And, as I said, neither of these men are perfect. They make mistakes but they work through them together,
This book is the beginning of a series and I find it hard to rate this higher when I still have so many questions. I'm not sure if the next book will focus on these characters again. I kind of wish it would as Jack and Isaac only get a tentative HFN here, and they deserve so much more.
Isaac has a wonderful wife, who also has a lover. They are in an open relationship because they are both aware that there are certain things they can't give each other. And it's quite clear that each relationship is completely separated to Isaac and Amalia's marriage. They aren't sharing lovers. I wish this had been explored, or explained more, because we NEVER see anything other than a best friend vibe between Isaac and Amalia. They are hardly on page together, and never in a sexual way.
Because I really liked this I wanted more. I wanted the HEA, not the HFN. I wanted to know how Jack and Isaac manoeuvre themselves around to be together when there's really 4 people in their relationship. Maybe we'll see glimpses of them throughout the series?? I hope so.
I'm also really interested in Dan, who was a subtle surprise and who I do think we'll be seeing next.
October 1, 2022
Jack sabe lo que necesita pero le ha costado meses tener el coraje de por fin entrar en el Club Windsor. Con su tamaño y sus musculos nadie lo toma en serio como sumiso, pero en su dia a dia tiene que tomar decisiones de vida o muerte, asi que una noche donde pueda dejar todo eso atras y permitirse solo sentir no es un lujo sino una necesidad. Pero esa noche en el Club Windsor conoce a un hombre que puede ser mucho mas que un encuentro de una noche, puede entender su trabajo, su vida y sobre todo, puede mantener el secreto de su relacion a todos los demas. Sera que el podra aceptar una relacion mas fija con ese hombre? Sera que podra pasar mas de una semana sin someterse a el? Sera que podra aceptar que realmente lo que hace no es lo que quiere hacer con su vida?
Isaac vino al Club Windsor por algo diferente, y no pudo menos que notar al hombre alto y corpulento sentado del lado de los sumisos, sobre todo porque lo conoce del trabajo y sabe que es su tipo. Pero cuando otro de los Doms del Club intenta atraerlo, no puede mas que salir a su rescate, y despues de eso una necesidad de estar con el hombre se vuelve mucho mas fuerte. Ahora, solo tiene que lograr que el acepte su lado sumiso, ademas de que lo acepte como una pareja fija, sabiendo el tipo de trabajo que tiene y sus horarios. Pero podra el ser el Dom que realmente necesita? Podra lograr que se habra lo suficiente para confiar en el no solo en la habitacion sino en la vida?
Este libro es un romance muy particular, yo no diria que es un instan-love, pero si un intan-lust, lo que lo hace muy entretenido de leer. Pero con todo y la trama tan sencilla que tiene, la forma como el autor logro que los personajes fueran interesantes, profundos, intensos y que nosotros pudieramos leer sus angustias, risas y emociones en su paginas, me parecio maravilloso.
Pero no solo fueron los protas los interesantes, todo el conjunto de personajes secundarios que estuvieron ahi, no solo en presencia (como Amelie, Lydia, Dan y Santigo) sino tambien los que se nombraron como parte de su pasado, como Ricky y el Clan de Cafe de Contenuto de Boston, hicieron a los protas seres reales, con emociones y sentimientos.
Quede con ansias de conocer que paso despues, Jack dejo SWAT? Compraron la cama King? Los cuatro han dormido juntos? Ha habido algun tipo de interaccion (tipo cena, viaje, picnic) entre los 4? Que dijo Dan cuando le conto su relacion con Isaac? Que dijeron las chicas del Cafe de Contenuto? Donde estan viviendo todos? Jack esta yendo al psicologo?
Hay tanta preguntas pendientes, que espero con ansias que el autor saque una continuacion. Por ahora solo hay una pequeña historia corta, que tengo que impresion que no va a responder ni la mitad de las preguntas que tengo.
Sin embargo, fue una muy buena lectura, un autor del que realmente quiero leer de nuevo.
Isaac vino al Club Windsor por algo diferente, y no pudo menos que notar al hombre alto y corpulento sentado del lado de los sumisos, sobre todo porque lo conoce del trabajo y sabe que es su tipo. Pero cuando otro de los Doms del Club intenta atraerlo, no puede mas que salir a su rescate, y despues de eso una necesidad de estar con el hombre se vuelve mucho mas fuerte. Ahora, solo tiene que lograr que el acepte su lado sumiso, ademas de que lo acepte como una pareja fija, sabiendo el tipo de trabajo que tiene y sus horarios. Pero podra el ser el Dom que realmente necesita? Podra lograr que se habra lo suficiente para confiar en el no solo en la habitacion sino en la vida?
Este libro es un romance muy particular, yo no diria que es un instan-love, pero si un intan-lust, lo que lo hace muy entretenido de leer. Pero con todo y la trama tan sencilla que tiene, la forma como el autor logro que los personajes fueran interesantes, profundos, intensos y que nosotros pudieramos leer sus angustias, risas y emociones en su paginas, me parecio maravilloso.
Pero no solo fueron los protas los interesantes, todo el conjunto de personajes secundarios que estuvieron ahi, no solo en presencia (como Amelie, Lydia, Dan y Santigo) sino tambien los que se nombraron como parte de su pasado, como Ricky y el Clan de Cafe de Contenuto de Boston, hicieron a los protas seres reales, con emociones y sentimientos.
Quede con ansias de conocer que paso despues, Jack dejo SWAT? Compraron la cama King? Los cuatro han dormido juntos? Ha habido algun tipo de interaccion (tipo cena, viaje, picnic) entre los 4? Que dijo Dan cuando le conto su relacion con Isaac? Que dijeron las chicas del Cafe de Contenuto? Donde estan viviendo todos? Jack esta yendo al psicologo?
Hay tanta preguntas pendientes, que espero con ansias que el autor saque una continuacion. Por ahora solo hay una pequeña historia corta, que tengo que impresion que no va a responder ni la mitad de las preguntas que tengo.
Sin embargo, fue una muy buena lectura, un autor del que realmente quiero leer de nuevo.
Read
January 31, 2018Rating this is really hard. I had a difficult time getting into the story, because of the glaring lack of proof-reading (typos galore!) which really, really put me out of the story. I even had to go back and check other reviews, which were often glowing, and wondering if we were reading the same book! But then I got caught up in the plot, and got why they liked it. It's a compelling story, with compelling characters. I really, really wish someone would have edited and proof-read it though. As I've read in other reviews, the ending was rushed and sudden and could have benefited from a bit fleshing out, and please, god, the typos and misspellings should have been removed! The story deserves better!
I also strongly dislike the use of "cum". It's not sexy. I was actively thinking up synonyms in my head while reading.
I also strongly dislike the use of "cum". It's not sexy. I was actively thinking up synonyms in my head while reading.
July 20, 2021
Honestly just SO good. I'd become very cynical lately, thinking maybe there was something wrong with *me* that I couldn't find any five star m/m reads, but no, it turns out there are still diamonds out there, polished and faceted and near perfect.
And this is one of them.
And this is one of them.
March 9, 2018
Tactical Submission was a terrific read. Certainly one of the better BDSM books about.
Featured Jack Burnside, a SWAT commander who is struggling to reconcile his sexual preferences, he’s closeted, and hiding his desire for submission and kink. Single, and desperate to fulfil that craving in himself Jack uses casual hook-ups with nameless Doms to satisfy his need to kneel.
Dr Isaac Bard, county coroner, is happily married to Amelie, in an open relationship, the only thing missing is a lovely boy to dominate. At the Windsor Club where Isaac is a member in strolls Jack looking exactly like everyones preconceived notion of a Dom. Tall, muscular and very fit, he surprises everyone including Isaac when he sits on the submissive side of the room. Recognising who Jack is, Isaac is more than intrigued, and just looking at the wall of muscle has Isaacs heart pounding.
This story was terrific, it dealt with a lot of things, including polyamory in a very positive light. Isaac and Amelie ‘s marriage was rock solid and open, both Isaac and Amelie going outside the marriage to get what they couldn’t get from inside their relationship. Amelie was in a long term relationship with her girlfriend Lydia, a D.A who was also closeted.
What was especially good about this novel was the level of adult communication regarding polyamory, BDSM, external relationships, short term casual encounters, sex, and the need to seek what each partner needed from another person. In fact the positive unconditional love and acceptance between Isaac and Amelie was terrific and absolutely contributed to this novel being so good. Add in a lotta kink, good sex, additional great communication between Isaac and Jack, and this story was one of the better kink Dom/sub books about.
I guess you might call this a gay romance, though truthfully it was hard to tell if it was a romance, simply due to lack of HEA, and no real declarations of love between the MC’s. Amelie declared her love for Lydia, though they had been in a relationship since High School. For our MC men, there was some discussion between Isaac and Amelie about whether Isaac had fallen for Jack, both Jack and Isaac’s own monologue suggested there were significant deep feelings developing for each other, though this is never fully explored, there was no doubt there was care and affection growing.
Only real complaint was the abrupt ending, it sort of ended on a HFN with a vague agreement that the relationship continue, though in honesty everything was rather unresolved, with the exception of an agreement to buy a big enough bed to house all four adults, ( Isaac, Amelie, Lydia and Jack ), Hopefully there will be a book 2 to clear the dust and continue the story,
Recommended reading if you love gay BDSM generally, there was some minor pain, (spanking, flogging), a fair bit of rope use, and a lotta power exchange.
Featured Jack Burnside, a SWAT commander who is struggling to reconcile his sexual preferences, he’s closeted, and hiding his desire for submission and kink. Single, and desperate to fulfil that craving in himself Jack uses casual hook-ups with nameless Doms to satisfy his need to kneel.
Dr Isaac Bard, county coroner, is happily married to Amelie, in an open relationship, the only thing missing is a lovely boy to dominate. At the Windsor Club where Isaac is a member in strolls Jack looking exactly like everyones preconceived notion of a Dom. Tall, muscular and very fit, he surprises everyone including Isaac when he sits on the submissive side of the room. Recognising who Jack is, Isaac is more than intrigued, and just looking at the wall of muscle has Isaacs heart pounding.
This story was terrific, it dealt with a lot of things, including polyamory in a very positive light. Isaac and Amelie ‘s marriage was rock solid and open, both Isaac and Amelie going outside the marriage to get what they couldn’t get from inside their relationship. Amelie was in a long term relationship with her girlfriend Lydia, a D.A who was also closeted.
What was especially good about this novel was the level of adult communication regarding polyamory, BDSM, external relationships, short term casual encounters, sex, and the need to seek what each partner needed from another person. In fact the positive unconditional love and acceptance between Isaac and Amelie was terrific and absolutely contributed to this novel being so good. Add in a lotta kink, good sex, additional great communication between Isaac and Jack, and this story was one of the better kink Dom/sub books about.
I guess you might call this a gay romance, though truthfully it was hard to tell if it was a romance, simply due to lack of HEA, and no real declarations of love between the MC’s. Amelie declared her love for Lydia, though they had been in a relationship since High School. For our MC men, there was some discussion between Isaac and Amelie about whether Isaac had fallen for Jack, both Jack and Isaac’s own monologue suggested there were significant deep feelings developing for each other, though this is never fully explored, there was no doubt there was care and affection growing.
Only real complaint was the abrupt ending, it sort of ended on a HFN with a vague agreement that the relationship continue, though in honesty everything was rather unresolved, with the exception of an agreement to buy a big enough bed to house all four adults, ( Isaac, Amelie, Lydia and Jack ), Hopefully there will be a book 2 to clear the dust and continue the story,
Recommended reading if you love gay BDSM generally, there was some minor pain, (spanking, flogging), a fair bit of rope use, and a lotta power exchange.
January 7, 2018
I have mixed feelings about Tactical Submission. The book had definite strengths, but also some big weaknesses.
Let’s start with the strong points. The BDSM scenes were nice, and definitely more imaginative than a lot of what’s out there. That said, I felt Jack dropped into subspace really fast and easy, seemingly without much stimulation.
Both main characters have interesting jobs. The side plot with the SWAT guys was enough to keep it authentic, without overpowering the rest. Isaac’s job is less fleshed out, but I liked the side jokes about it.
The romance developed slowly. It was more a convenience for them at first, definitely for Jack, but you could see the love slowly grow. That felt realistic to me.
Alas, it’s time to move on to the weaknesses.
First of all, considering the size of this full-length novel (266 pages), I was expecting a HEA. That did not happen. The book ended very abruptly. There are still a lot of questions that need answering, for instance the relationship between Isaac and his wife—which made no sense at all. I always think it’s good form for an author to announce it when a book is part of a series and does not have a HEA. Especially with a novel this size it was unexpected.
My bigger issue, however, was with the emotional distance I kept feeling towards both characters. The POV was too distant to really get into their heads and contained too much ‘telling’ to emotionally connect. That was really a shame, because I wanted to feel what they were feeling.
A minor problem were the editing issues. There were quite a number of typos and misspellings that a good round of editing would have caught.
I can only hope this book will get a sequel, and that the issues above will get fixed in that one.
Let’s start with the strong points. The BDSM scenes were nice, and definitely more imaginative than a lot of what’s out there. That said, I felt Jack dropped into subspace really fast and easy, seemingly without much stimulation.
Both main characters have interesting jobs. The side plot with the SWAT guys was enough to keep it authentic, without overpowering the rest. Isaac’s job is less fleshed out, but I liked the side jokes about it.
The romance developed slowly. It was more a convenience for them at first, definitely for Jack, but you could see the love slowly grow. That felt realistic to me.
Alas, it’s time to move on to the weaknesses.
First of all, considering the size of this full-length novel (266 pages), I was expecting a HEA. That did not happen. The book ended very abruptly. There are still a lot of questions that need answering, for instance the relationship between Isaac and his wife—which made no sense at all. I always think it’s good form for an author to announce it when a book is part of a series and does not have a HEA. Especially with a novel this size it was unexpected.
My bigger issue, however, was with the emotional distance I kept feeling towards both characters. The POV was too distant to really get into their heads and contained too much ‘telling’ to emotionally connect. That was really a shame, because I wanted to feel what they were feeling.
A minor problem were the editing issues. There were quite a number of typos and misspellings that a good round of editing would have caught.
I can only hope this book will get a sequel, and that the issues above will get fixed in that one.
November 15, 2017
Book 1 of many?
I’m going to assume this is Book one of a series with Jack and Isaac because otherwise this would have been a bit of a disappointment only because it felt like it’s half finished.
I mean, I’m still struggling to understand why Isaac is still married to his wife when it feels more like friendship between the two of them. And it was just getting the momentum going between Jack and Isaac and there I am, flipping the last page of the book closed.
So there better be a sequel or I’m going to throw a fit! Lol
I’m going to assume this is Book one of a series with Jack and Isaac because otherwise this would have been a bit of a disappointment only because it felt like it’s half finished.
I mean, I’m still struggling to understand why Isaac is still married to his wife when it feels more like friendship between the two of them. And it was just getting the momentum going between Jack and Isaac and there I am, flipping the last page of the book closed.
So there better be a sequel or I’m going to throw a fit! Lol
January 5, 2020
Definitely recommend this book!
BDSM that follows RACK and SSC without being unrealistic or boring ? check
Polyamory that is not blown out of proportion and is actually pretty sweet and understandable? check
Crazy Wiccan lesbian baristas? check
Entertaining (if not slightly distracting and far fetched) subplot that makes you shout mean things at the mcs? double check
With an added bonus of my fave guilty pleasure..... big beefy scary sub and tiny scholarly Dominant. Mmmm irony!
SammiSue
BDSM that follows RACK and SSC without being unrealistic or boring ? check
Polyamory that is not blown out of proportion and is actually pretty sweet and understandable? check
Crazy Wiccan lesbian baristas? check
Entertaining (if not slightly distracting and far fetched) subplot that makes you shout mean things at the mcs? double check
With an added bonus of my fave guilty pleasure..... big beefy scary sub and tiny scholarly Dominant. Mmmm irony!
SammiSue
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