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Neighborly Affection #5
Finding Their Balance
Three's the naughtiest kind of crowd.
Getting to the one-year mark is difficult enough for two lovers. With three in the mix, every day brings a fresh challenge for Henry, Alice, and Jay.
Between Alice's headstrong insistence on pushing her sexual limits and Jay's need to confront an abusive former lover, Henry has his hands full keeping both of his partners safe and happy. If his balancing act fails, the trio's future will come tumbling down.
But amid the struggles and risks of their unconventional lifestyle, the three form a union that brings each of them to the edge of something new-a love that could slip through their fingers if they don't hold on tight.
Getting to the one-year mark is difficult enough for two lovers. With three in the mix, every day brings a fresh challenge for Henry, Alice, and Jay.
Between Alice's headstrong insistence on pushing her sexual limits and Jay's need to confront an abusive former lover, Henry has his hands full keeping both of his partners safe and happy. If his balancing act fails, the trio's future will come tumbling down.
But amid the struggles and risks of their unconventional lifestyle, the three form a union that brings each of them to the edge of something new-a love that could slip through their fingers if they don't hold on tight.
304 pages, ebook
First published March 1, 2016
About the author
M.Q. Barber
12 books299 followersI am a former Midwestern gal who well knows the joy of flopping down in a field for an afternoon and composing stories about the shapes in the clouds. As it turns out, adulthood doesn't have to be so different from childhood.
Sharing those stories is a new thing for me. I hope readers will love the characters as much as I do.
Sharing those stories is a new thing for me. I hope readers will love the characters as much as I do.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
February 12, 2016
I've been a big fan of this series ever since I read it a good year ago. After I read book #3, I wrongly assumed that it was the last one in the series, leaving me a little disappointed with the ending. Needless to say, I was elated when I found out that there was at least one more to come, and even more ecstatic when I read M.Q. Barber's blog post saying that this book was going to be available via NetGalley.
This series is basically pure erotica (not smut, though). There isn't a lot going on outside of the triad relationship between Alice, Henry and Jay, but the thing is - there really is no need for more. This is hands down the most erotic, most sensual and intense menage story I've ever laid my hands and eyes on, and it even ranks at the very top of best erotica novels in general for me.
As for this installment in particular, I didn't love it quite as much as I did the others. I felt like the writing didn't flow as smoothly as I was used to, the dialogues could be confusing at times when I, especially in the beginning, wasn't able to make out what was being said by whom, and it got a little tiresome to be in Alice's over-analytic head all the time.
Also, there was just a little too much focus on anal intercourse for my taste, but you know... personal preferences and all.
That being said, I still adore the main characters as well as some of the secondaries, the further development of their relationship was beautiful and heart-warming, and blissfully angst-free, the sex scenes were as scorching and emotional as ever, and the book made me warm inside on so many levels.
I can't see myself ever getting enough of Henry, and Jay, for that matter, and I really hope there will be a lot more to come in the future.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2016
A copy was provided by NetGalley in return for an honest review
I've been reading this series from the beginning and I've been a fan all along. This has been the best yet. There was so much growth in Jay and Alice both as submissives and as people. Jay is learning how speak up for himself & redefine his limits (although he still has work to do when it comes to his birth family). And Alice is learning how to grow as a switch & she's learning that her men have great capacity to love and not just romantically. She's learning how to expand the meaning of family into something that doesn't include blood relatives & how to show friendship to someone she thought was a rival for Henry's affection but who really is just a dear friend.
She unlocked the apartment door, and—nothing. Sex god Henry might be, but he wasn’t omniscient. This had me laughing so loud! So many books portray Doms as all-knowing, all-seeing beings when really, they're just as human as us vanilla people!
“Safewords are required. They form the first rule of safety. This club’s rules are based on the safe, sane, consensual ethos as both a moral imperative and a liability issue.” “My slaves’ first rule is no safewording. I’m done when I say I’m done.” “You won’t be moved from that belief?” “From the only real fun?” The moron laughed like he’d won a prize. “I make them scared and begging for it, until they don’t know what’s coming and can’t stop it.” “This class is not for you. Nor is this club.” Henry extended his arm toward the door. “You’re free to go.” “You can’t throw—” “The color of your name tag tells me you’re a guest. A probationary member sponsored by another, perhaps? You have no privileges. You admit you would not abide by the club’s code of conduct, and you have disrespected your instructor and your fellow students.” “Let’s go, buddy. Master Henry says you’re out, then you’re out.” “Your name and photo will be marked in the club’s database. I recommend you don’t attempt to return.”
One of my pet peeves when I'm reading a book featuring BDSM & I will quit reading if the characters are not playing safely. I loved that safety is featured so prominently in this one.
During their anniversary celebration, Alice is thanking Henry for not returning the panties he'd kept from their first time together & his response really struck me with how truly sentimental he is:
“For not giving back my panties.” If the time ever came, she’d know it now for the end of their relationship. “You’ll keep them forever?” “On the day I’m laid to rest, they shall occupy my inner breast pocket.”
I plan to continue reading along with this series as long as it continues.
I've been reading this series from the beginning and I've been a fan all along. This has been the best yet. There was so much growth in Jay and Alice both as submissives and as people. Jay is learning how speak up for himself & redefine his limits (although he still has work to do when it comes to his birth family). And Alice is learning how to grow as a switch & she's learning that her men have great capacity to love and not just romantically. She's learning how to expand the meaning of family into something that doesn't include blood relatives & how to show friendship to someone she thought was a rival for Henry's affection but who really is just a dear friend.
She unlocked the apartment door, and—nothing. Sex god Henry might be, but he wasn’t omniscient. This had me laughing so loud! So many books portray Doms as all-knowing, all-seeing beings when really, they're just as human as us vanilla people!
“Safewords are required. They form the first rule of safety. This club’s rules are based on the safe, sane, consensual ethos as both a moral imperative and a liability issue.” “My slaves’ first rule is no safewording. I’m done when I say I’m done.” “You won’t be moved from that belief?” “From the only real fun?” The moron laughed like he’d won a prize. “I make them scared and begging for it, until they don’t know what’s coming and can’t stop it.” “This class is not for you. Nor is this club.” Henry extended his arm toward the door. “You’re free to go.” “You can’t throw—” “The color of your name tag tells me you’re a guest. A probationary member sponsored by another, perhaps? You have no privileges. You admit you would not abide by the club’s code of conduct, and you have disrespected your instructor and your fellow students.” “Let’s go, buddy. Master Henry says you’re out, then you’re out.” “Your name and photo will be marked in the club’s database. I recommend you don’t attempt to return.”
One of my pet peeves when I'm reading a book featuring BDSM & I will quit reading if the characters are not playing safely. I loved that safety is featured so prominently in this one.
During their anniversary celebration, Alice is thanking Henry for not returning the panties he'd kept from their first time together & his response really struck me with how truly sentimental he is:
“For not giving back my panties.” If the time ever came, she’d know it now for the end of their relationship. “You’ll keep them forever?” “On the day I’m laid to rest, they shall occupy my inner breast pocket.”
I plan to continue reading along with this series as long as it continues.
April 6, 2017
Must read this saga. I was hooked from beginning book 1 to book 4.
January 27, 2016
Review for Finding Their Balance by M.Q. Barber
Henry, Jay, and Alice are back in Finding Their Balance book number five in M.Q. Barber’s Neighborly Affections series. In order to fully enjoy this book, I suggest you read the series in order.
Barber has a lyrical quality to her writing. Each detail perfectly executed to create a world in which the reader can get lost. Every step of the way you feel the forward motion of the characters. Not only do you see growth of the individual, but also within the relationships. Each book in the series sees new challenges for Henry, Jay, and Alice and each book sees growth from the experiences of those challenges and those experiences seamlessly move the reader through the next book and the next set of challenges.
“Finding your balance is a delicate dance at first.”
This book picks up where book three finishes. (Book four can actually be read as a prequel as it is Henry and Jay before Alice comes into the picture.) Alice is moved in with her boys and they are finding their new normal. It felt like this step was a long time in the making, but really it’s been quite quick — but because we know how very long Henry and Jay desired Alice and knew that things could be perfect together, it seemed like it took her forever to come to terms with her feelings. Definitely no insta-love for them. It’s a very satisfying slow build to an epic romance.
“It’s no an either-or— either we’re in love or things aren’t perfect and love is an illusion. Imperfect love. I can’t quantify it, but I feel it.”
Henry is a Master and a complete alpha gentleman. I honestly never thought I would enjoy reading a BDSM book with a Dominant that uses a softer touch, but Henry completely changed my mind. Barber proves it is 100% possible to write an alpha hero without him having to be a jerk in the beginning. Henry masters with steady love and respect, it’s beautiful. Jay is often lovingly referred to as an excited puppy. So full of life and energy. His need to serve and be mastered such an integral part of who he is makes him the perfect submissive. Alice is new to the lifestyle and is still coming to terms with what it means to belong to Henry. She’s trying to find the balance between submitting to Henry and showing dominance to Jay.
“Your confidence and strength are closer to the surface. Your belief and trust in yourself and your lovers has never been more apparent.”
So many wonderful things happen in this book. I want to spill all the beans, but I won’t. The storyline is phenomenal, five stars for sure and the erotic scenes are so much more than I could have asked for. There may or may not be a Henry-Jay-Alice moment and a Henry-Alice-Jay moment and those may or may not deserve five plus drenched panties.
ARC Review by Miranda at Mommy’s a Book Whore.
Henry, Jay, and Alice are back in Finding Their Balance book number five in M.Q. Barber’s Neighborly Affections series. In order to fully enjoy this book, I suggest you read the series in order.
Barber has a lyrical quality to her writing. Each detail perfectly executed to create a world in which the reader can get lost. Every step of the way you feel the forward motion of the characters. Not only do you see growth of the individual, but also within the relationships. Each book in the series sees new challenges for Henry, Jay, and Alice and each book sees growth from the experiences of those challenges and those experiences seamlessly move the reader through the next book and the next set of challenges.
“Finding your balance is a delicate dance at first.”
This book picks up where book three finishes. (Book four can actually be read as a prequel as it is Henry and Jay before Alice comes into the picture.) Alice is moved in with her boys and they are finding their new normal. It felt like this step was a long time in the making, but really it’s been quite quick — but because we know how very long Henry and Jay desired Alice and knew that things could be perfect together, it seemed like it took her forever to come to terms with her feelings. Definitely no insta-love for them. It’s a very satisfying slow build to an epic romance.
“It’s no an either-or— either we’re in love or things aren’t perfect and love is an illusion. Imperfect love. I can’t quantify it, but I feel it.”
Henry is a Master and a complete alpha gentleman. I honestly never thought I would enjoy reading a BDSM book with a Dominant that uses a softer touch, but Henry completely changed my mind. Barber proves it is 100% possible to write an alpha hero without him having to be a jerk in the beginning. Henry masters with steady love and respect, it’s beautiful. Jay is often lovingly referred to as an excited puppy. So full of life and energy. His need to serve and be mastered such an integral part of who he is makes him the perfect submissive. Alice is new to the lifestyle and is still coming to terms with what it means to belong to Henry. She’s trying to find the balance between submitting to Henry and showing dominance to Jay.
“Your confidence and strength are closer to the surface. Your belief and trust in yourself and your lovers has never been more apparent.”
So many wonderful things happen in this book. I want to spill all the beans, but I won’t. The storyline is phenomenal, five stars for sure and the erotic scenes are so much more than I could have asked for. There may or may not be a Henry-Jay-Alice moment and a Henry-Alice-Jay moment and those may or may not deserve five plus drenched panties.
ARC Review by Miranda at Mommy’s a Book Whore.
September 19, 2018
Another great installment in this series. Henry is amazing he always knows what they exactly need and gives it to them. I loved Henry letting Alice be Mistress over Jay at the club that was really hot. I'm glad that Alice finally comes to terms with Em and it looks as if they will actually become friends. I wish that Em would find someone as she is so lonely, I know no one will ever take Victors' place but she shouldn't be so alone. I don't really like Jay's family, even though we really haven't meet them. Poor Jay leaving them that weekend not only broke Alice's heart but I know it did Henry's as well. Calvin is such a sick SOB and what he did to those two subs was sick. He deserves more than just being banded from the club. What Jay did to finally rid himself of Cal was perfect. I can't wait for the next book - please write faster Ms. Barber ;)
I received a copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I received a copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
March 2, 2016
Ahhh.... how I love this series. It is best read in order, and this book is not a stand-alone. One of the things I appreciate the most about these books is that M.Q. Barber has created people and circumstances that are realistic. These characters are flawed, can't read eachother's minds, and have daily lives and struggles. They become real. Re-connecting with them in this book was like getting a long phone call from a cherished friend.
In this book we see a Jay, Henry, and Alice's relationship grow as a whole, but we also see Alice become a lot more confident in her skin. With that being said, she becomes more aware of the struggles between Jay and Henry's relationship now that she isn't so intrinsically focused. In the past Alice has seen Jay as almost the perfect sub, trying to live up to the standards he has set. Jay isn't perfect and Alice starts to realize where some of those fissures are during this story.
We also get to see a lot more of the secondary characters (namely Emma and William) in this book, and I loved becoming more familiar with the people who helped make Henry who he is. More time is spent in the club, and we start to finally see how their relationship will manifest in public settings.
Lastly, we are finally seeing some love scenes between Jay/Henry. I really loved seeing all three of them together instead of the two men just focusing on Alice as we have seen predominantly in the past.
All in all, another great book in this series. I'm already excited to see what happens next!!
** This book was graciously provided to me via Netgally in exchange for an honest review. ( I would have bought it anyway because I love this series!!!)
In this book we see a Jay, Henry, and Alice's relationship grow as a whole, but we also see Alice become a lot more confident in her skin. With that being said, she becomes more aware of the struggles between Jay and Henry's relationship now that she isn't so intrinsically focused. In the past Alice has seen Jay as almost the perfect sub, trying to live up to the standards he has set. Jay isn't perfect and Alice starts to realize where some of those fissures are during this story.
We also get to see a lot more of the secondary characters (namely Emma and William) in this book, and I loved becoming more familiar with the people who helped make Henry who he is. More time is spent in the club, and we start to finally see how their relationship will manifest in public settings.
Lastly, we are finally seeing some love scenes between Jay/Henry. I really loved seeing all three of them together instead of the two men just focusing on Alice as we have seen predominantly in the past.
All in all, another great book in this series. I'm already excited to see what happens next!!
** This book was graciously provided to me via Netgally in exchange for an honest review. ( I would have bought it anyway because I love this series!!!)
February 17, 2016
Another fantastic book by M. Q. Barber. I don't think I'll ever get enough of Henry, Jay, and Alice. This book was really about growth. You know the characters, you love them, and now you can see them all grow and become more comfortable with themselves and their relationships. I really did not care for Emma, however, this book changed my mind. We get insight into why she does things the way she does and I'm so glad for that because she is important to both Henry and Jay.
I absolutely LOVED Finding Their Balance. I definitely recommend not only this story but all of the neighborly affections series. I received this book through Netgalley for an honest opinion.
Spoiler alert...
Jay stands up to Cal, Alice and Emma connect, and what Henry reveals....honestly I felt as stunned as Alice and had to reread multiple times. In the next book Ollie will visit and hopefully we'll see the trio interact with the men's family. I would love to see Jay stand up to Peggy and have her put in her place. I bet Henry's mom would love the three of them and having Alice there to calm Jay would allow them all to visit her.
I absolutely LOVED Finding Their Balance. I definitely recommend not only this story but all of the neighborly affections series. I received this book through Netgalley for an honest opinion.
Spoiler alert...
Jay stands up to Cal, Alice and Emma connect, and what Henry reveals....honestly I felt as stunned as Alice and had to reread multiple times. In the next book Ollie will visit and hopefully we'll see the trio interact with the men's family. I would love to see Jay stand up to Peggy and have her put in her place. I bet Henry's mom would love the three of them and having Alice there to calm Jay would allow them all to visit her.
March 10, 2016
I wish I was better at writing reviews and I could do this book justice!!
M.Q. is an interesting author who has made me feel and connect with each of her characters. I don't know how she does it but it is an unique talent. Henry, Jay, and Alice are and will always be my favorite book "couple". I identify with each of them and their personalities. To see them settle into their love and their lives together brought me such joy and warmth, I was moved to tears several times. But the best part of the whole book was to watch Jay grow into his strength and power. We always knew it was a part of him but now he knows it as well. Amazing!!
M.Q. always makes us feel like we are there, part of the story, almost like a voyeur. I was there when Alice surprised Henry with her addition, when Jay celebrated his birthday, when Alice overcame her resistance, when Will became the man we knew he was meant to be, and most importantly, when Jay became the man we all knew he was and Cal got what was coming to him.
I can not wait to see what is next in the story for our threesome!!
M.Q. is an interesting author who has made me feel and connect with each of her characters. I don't know how she does it but it is an unique talent. Henry, Jay, and Alice are and will always be my favorite book "couple". I identify with each of them and their personalities. To see them settle into their love and their lives together brought me such joy and warmth, I was moved to tears several times. But the best part of the whole book was to watch Jay grow into his strength and power. We always knew it was a part of him but now he knows it as well. Amazing!!
M.Q. always makes us feel like we are there, part of the story, almost like a voyeur. I was there when Alice surprised Henry with her addition, when Jay celebrated his birthday, when Alice overcame her resistance, when Will became the man we knew he was meant to be, and most importantly, when Jay became the man we all knew he was and Cal got what was coming to him.
I can not wait to see what is next in the story for our threesome!!
January 30, 2016
I haven't read the other 4 YET. I highly recommend this as a stand alone but definitely could feel where I was missing the inside story. The author does a great job of filling in necessary information without oversharing.
Lyrical writing. When Henry speaks it is poetry. It adds to the magic in their complicated relationship. This story is not about punishment. Safety, trust and love form the foundations that each partner builds on to serve one another. Jay defines himself as servant but not a slave. Alice is the binding piece. She completes them both. Alice is soft when Henry demands it and firm as Jay needs her to be. Successfully "Finding Their Balance" will be key in finding forever together.
ALERT! There is one dangerous scene that is essential to the story. Power through my friends.
Thank you #Netgalley for the ARC.
Lyrical writing. When Henry speaks it is poetry. It adds to the magic in their complicated relationship. This story is not about punishment. Safety, trust and love form the foundations that each partner builds on to serve one another. Jay defines himself as servant but not a slave. Alice is the binding piece. She completes them both. Alice is soft when Henry demands it and firm as Jay needs her to be. Successfully "Finding Their Balance" will be key in finding forever together.
ALERT! There is one dangerous scene that is essential to the story. Power through my friends.
Thank you #Netgalley for the ARC.
July 13, 2016
I did not pen a review after reading Finding Their Balance the first time because I didn't love it. Not like I had M.Q. Barber’s other books. I liked it well enough, but there was no quivering-belly love for the characters and the story. I wanted to love it because Barber’s use of language is lyrical and evokes sentiments that flood my mind with pleasure. I wanted to love it because the characters of this series are so well drawn I feel as if I could meet them on the street and strike up a conversation. I wanted to love it, but I didn’t. I liked it. So I set about trying to determine what was different about this book. Now I get it! I finally get what felt off to me and in doing so rooted my love for this book.
I didn’t discover the ‘Neighborly Affection’ series until after the third book was published, which allowed me to gorge myself on the stories. Then in the period between the release of book three and book five, I’d had the pleasure of conditioning myself to the male voices that Barber is so good at portraying. She does a phenom job with her Tuesdays With Jay newsletter bits, so those writings along with Henry’s book, Becoming His Master, allowed me to accustom myself to voices other than Alice’s, which seemed to be the crux of the problem keeping me from loving Finding Their Balance. Barber excelled at giving us Henry’s voice in book #4, which is actually the first book in the series in terms of story arc.
I’m a chick who really enjoys reading about alpha men. So, while I fell in love with Alice’s tentative first steps into the D/s world as portrayed by Barber, it was because of her constant interaction with Henry and my inference of his motives and inner dialogue. Then, she (Barber) spoiled me entirely by giving me unadulterated Henry in Becoming His Master. His words, windows into the unvoiced debates with his conscience, unveiling of both his fears and confidence, and all of this straight from the source, without Alice to distill the experience.
So, once we returned to Alice’s viewpoint in book five, I found myself frustrated at her interpretation of events and how she steered the threesome into places that failed to satisfy. I found her voice grated on my nerves, her missteps unforgivable. But it wasn’t really her, instead I quite simply wanted Henry. Or Jay, because his voice in Barber’s newsletter stories is as sweetly submissive and giving as he is at any point under Henry’s tutelage, and as worth the read. I most emphatically did not want Alice, so I fought the story every step of the way, wrestling it to the ground finally. Triumph without pleasure.
That didn’t sit well with me. At all. Not a quitter, I set about trying to find my joy in Barber’s stories again. After reading and enjoying the first book in her new series (written in alternating viewpoints between the male and female characters), I decided I would re-read the ‘Neighborly Affection’ series. So I romped through books one, two, and three, falling in love with Alice and the boys again. With anticipation, I made my way to book four, and swooned for Henry afresh, spending hours with his voice rumbling around in my head, stirring up the most lovely of echoes and enjoyable imagined scenes. Thinking to myself that we were well on the way to a grand finale, I opened book five, and nearly immediately experienced the same balking frustration I had the first time through. Oh, please, no. See, I want to love it. Time to regroup and rewind. After some contemplation, I decided to try a final time, beginning with what I needed. Henry.
I read book four first, the prequel to the trio of stories that had made me giddy with happiness from my first encounter, and through all consecutive readings. Becoming His Master bathed my senses in Henry’s seduction of Jay, and I again discovered the blueprints for the relationship I knew they would build with Alice eventually. Then I worked through books one, two, and three, before opening the cover of book five. This time, I found myself eagerly turning the pages, unwilling to sleep because I wanted to read about the next scene, the next encounter, the next expression of love or strength or courage that the triad provided. In removing Henry’s voice from being the ‘elevensies’ of the series, and consuming him wholesale in the beginning, I gave myself the ability to stay in Alice’s headspace, and I loved it.
I get it, now. It’s not a flaw in the story, but rather the slippery slope of my own preferences inhibiting my ability to fully engage with the book. I’m so glad I persevered because Finding Their Balance is worth the read. Solidly good, descriptively written, and with as much sweet yearning as Alice (and I) needed.
I didn’t discover the ‘Neighborly Affection’ series until after the third book was published, which allowed me to gorge myself on the stories. Then in the period between the release of book three and book five, I’d had the pleasure of conditioning myself to the male voices that Barber is so good at portraying. She does a phenom job with her Tuesdays With Jay newsletter bits, so those writings along with Henry’s book, Becoming His Master, allowed me to accustom myself to voices other than Alice’s, which seemed to be the crux of the problem keeping me from loving Finding Their Balance. Barber excelled at giving us Henry’s voice in book #4, which is actually the first book in the series in terms of story arc.
I’m a chick who really enjoys reading about alpha men. So, while I fell in love with Alice’s tentative first steps into the D/s world as portrayed by Barber, it was because of her constant interaction with Henry and my inference of his motives and inner dialogue. Then, she (Barber) spoiled me entirely by giving me unadulterated Henry in Becoming His Master. His words, windows into the unvoiced debates with his conscience, unveiling of both his fears and confidence, and all of this straight from the source, without Alice to distill the experience.
So, once we returned to Alice’s viewpoint in book five, I found myself frustrated at her interpretation of events and how she steered the threesome into places that failed to satisfy. I found her voice grated on my nerves, her missteps unforgivable. But it wasn’t really her, instead I quite simply wanted Henry. Or Jay, because his voice in Barber’s newsletter stories is as sweetly submissive and giving as he is at any point under Henry’s tutelage, and as worth the read. I most emphatically did not want Alice, so I fought the story every step of the way, wrestling it to the ground finally. Triumph without pleasure.
That didn’t sit well with me. At all. Not a quitter, I set about trying to find my joy in Barber’s stories again. After reading and enjoying the first book in her new series (written in alternating viewpoints between the male and female characters), I decided I would re-read the ‘Neighborly Affection’ series. So I romped through books one, two, and three, falling in love with Alice and the boys again. With anticipation, I made my way to book four, and swooned for Henry afresh, spending hours with his voice rumbling around in my head, stirring up the most lovely of echoes and enjoyable imagined scenes. Thinking to myself that we were well on the way to a grand finale, I opened book five, and nearly immediately experienced the same balking frustration I had the first time through. Oh, please, no. See, I want to love it. Time to regroup and rewind. After some contemplation, I decided to try a final time, beginning with what I needed. Henry.
I read book four first, the prequel to the trio of stories that had made me giddy with happiness from my first encounter, and through all consecutive readings. Becoming His Master bathed my senses in Henry’s seduction of Jay, and I again discovered the blueprints for the relationship I knew they would build with Alice eventually. Then I worked through books one, two, and three, before opening the cover of book five. This time, I found myself eagerly turning the pages, unwilling to sleep because I wanted to read about the next scene, the next encounter, the next expression of love or strength or courage that the triad provided. In removing Henry’s voice from being the ‘elevensies’ of the series, and consuming him wholesale in the beginning, I gave myself the ability to stay in Alice’s headspace, and I loved it.
I get it, now. It’s not a flaw in the story, but rather the slippery slope of my own preferences inhibiting my ability to fully engage with the book. I’m so glad I persevered because Finding Their Balance is worth the read. Solidly good, descriptively written, and with as much sweet yearning as Alice (and I) needed.
March 1, 2016
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Lyrical Press in exchange for an honest review.
It's been nearly a year since Henry, Jay, and Alice entered a three-sided relationship and while it's had it's ups, it's certainly had its downs as well. After all, these are three very different personalities who have their distinct ways of thinking and feeling. Alice being the new member in the relationship is used to dealing with problems and stressful situations exclusively on her own, and while she has had other relationships in the past, she has more to consider than the emotions and sensitivities of just one other person. She's set in her ways, but she's willing to make the necessary adjustments, and both Henry and Jay are more than patient as she finds her footing. But surprisingly, it isn't just Alice who's keeping what goes on inside the home they share completely separate from the rest of her life, and this is just another discovery that has Alice analyzing the ins and outs of their relationship. The story is told from Alice's third-person point of view, so we do get lots more of her inner thoughts and feelings than Henry's or Jay's.
There's quite a bit of realization that Alice comes upon in this latest addition to the Neighborly Affection collection, especially when it comes to their dealings with the fetish club they're all a part of and Henry's and Jay's relationships with Emma (whose last name I don't recall being mentioned in the books...either that or my memory is simply failing me at the moment), who has always been one of my favorite supporting characters, along with William, also known as Will and nicknamed "Santa". There's also a resolution--one that I hope is final--when it comes to a lingering bad memory in the lives of Henry, Jay, and Alice. I must say that it was a resolution that was a long time coming and I loved how it all turned out in the end. The relationship shared by the three main characters is a precious one and there's no denying that it's still in transition, even a year in. Speaking of transition, as in love as these three are with each other, I do wonder how receptive Alice's and Jay's families will be to this very non-traditional relationship.
I make no secret of the fact that among the three main characters, Henry and Jay are my favorites. Maybe it's because their story in Becoming His Master, the fourth full-length novel in the series, was so beautifully told and was such a heartrending but inspiring read. I love the generosity of spirit these two have and how patient and understanding they are with Alice's adjustment. They're so different yet they simply make sense together and I highly doubt that either of them would ever know how to fully function if they were ever to decide to end things. Then there's Alice, who is the middle ground of sorts, both submissive and dominant, she has become the one person able to share the sense of responsibility Henry carries with him when it comes to the man they both love dearly--Jay. Together, the three of them discover their own kind of harmony, a symmetry that may not be easily understood by many, but a remarkable one nonetheless. I, for one, need more of this trio. Five-plus stars for Finding Their Balance. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Lyrical Press in exchange for an honest review.
It's been nearly a year since Henry, Jay, and Alice entered a three-sided relationship and while it's had it's ups, it's certainly had its downs as well. After all, these are three very different personalities who have their distinct ways of thinking and feeling. Alice being the new member in the relationship is used to dealing with problems and stressful situations exclusively on her own, and while she has had other relationships in the past, she has more to consider than the emotions and sensitivities of just one other person. She's set in her ways, but she's willing to make the necessary adjustments, and both Henry and Jay are more than patient as she finds her footing. But surprisingly, it isn't just Alice who's keeping what goes on inside the home they share completely separate from the rest of her life, and this is just another discovery that has Alice analyzing the ins and outs of their relationship. The story is told from Alice's third-person point of view, so we do get lots more of her inner thoughts and feelings than Henry's or Jay's.
There's quite a bit of realization that Alice comes upon in this latest addition to the Neighborly Affection collection, especially when it comes to their dealings with the fetish club they're all a part of and Henry's and Jay's relationships with Emma (whose last name I don't recall being mentioned in the books...either that or my memory is simply failing me at the moment), who has always been one of my favorite supporting characters, along with William, also known as Will and nicknamed "Santa". There's also a resolution--one that I hope is final--when it comes to a lingering bad memory in the lives of Henry, Jay, and Alice. I must say that it was a resolution that was a long time coming and I loved how it all turned out in the end. The relationship shared by the three main characters is a precious one and there's no denying that it's still in transition, even a year in. Speaking of transition, as in love as these three are with each other, I do wonder how receptive Alice's and Jay's families will be to this very non-traditional relationship.
I make no secret of the fact that among the three main characters, Henry and Jay are my favorites. Maybe it's because their story in Becoming His Master, the fourth full-length novel in the series, was so beautifully told and was such a heartrending but inspiring read. I love the generosity of spirit these two have and how patient and understanding they are with Alice's adjustment. They're so different yet they simply make sense together and I highly doubt that either of them would ever know how to fully function if they were ever to decide to end things. Then there's Alice, who is the middle ground of sorts, both submissive and dominant, she has become the one person able to share the sense of responsibility Henry carries with him when it comes to the man they both love dearly--Jay. Together, the three of them discover their own kind of harmony, a symmetry that may not be easily understood by many, but a remarkable one nonetheless. I, for one, need more of this trio. Five-plus stars for Finding Their Balance. ♥
June 17, 2016
M.Q. Barber has really outdone herself. She has done some absolutely superb work here. This unconventional love story touches your heart, tickles your funny bone, and revs your engine. Finding Their Balance observes our three lovers around the one year point in their relationship as they work to become a more seamlessly blended unit both from an outward and an inward point of view. Alice endeavors to accept her new role as part-time mistress to Jay, and Jay is doing his best to deal with the trauma of his past in order to help him to continue to find self respect and strength in his service... and Henry, well... Henry is Henry, ever the confident and sharing master who will stop at nothing to protect and encourage those that he loves. This threesome has obstacles to overcome, but they also have a love strong enough to see them through, if they trust in it. I loved every word of this book! The words were thoughtful and loving and hopeful and captivating and romantic and completely enthralling. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a provocative and riveting read.
* I was given an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
* I was given an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
February 1, 2016
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 Stars
This was the fifth book in this series and I have not read the other four. However, I read some very positive reviews on this one and most of them said that reading the other four is not necessary. So I gave it a try. And I am sad to say this one wasn't for me.
Now the connection/chemistry between the love interests was pretty intense at times and their time at the club very entertaining. I felt that the character development was somewhat lacking, especially with this one being the 5th book. Also it took forever to get to the conflict of the story. There was a little thrown in here and there but overall I felt like this one was dragging.
At one point I was even willing to mark this one DNF, but with it being an ARC I decided to finish it.
This one has some really great reviews and it may be one that you really love. But I just couldn't get into it. So if you are wanting a lot and I mean a lot of mmf, bdms, club scenes then check this one out. But beware it may take a bit to get into it.
2.5 Stars
This was the fifth book in this series and I have not read the other four. However, I read some very positive reviews on this one and most of them said that reading the other four is not necessary. So I gave it a try. And I am sad to say this one wasn't for me.
Now the connection/chemistry between the love interests was pretty intense at times and their time at the club very entertaining. I felt that the character development was somewhat lacking, especially with this one being the 5th book. Also it took forever to get to the conflict of the story. There was a little thrown in here and there but overall I felt like this one was dragging.
At one point I was even willing to mark this one DNF, but with it being an ARC I decided to finish it.
This one has some really great reviews and it may be one that you really love. But I just couldn't get into it. So if you are wanting a lot and I mean a lot of mmf, bdms, club scenes then check this one out. But beware it may take a bit to get into it.
March 25, 2016
This is not a series that you can skim read - every word, sentence and paragraph is a finely twined piece of the story - blink and you will miss a subtle change or breath of direction. This threesome of Henry, Jay & Alice really is beautiful and almost has an old world feel to it. Respect, patience, loyalty, trust & love... I could go on. It's a great BDSM series - different on many levels, very clever
March 7, 2016
I've adored this series from the start, and it just keeps getting better. This isn't my go-to genre by any means, which makes the depths of emotion and exploration of the psychology behind the games Dom Henry and co-subs Alice and Jay play even more appealing. Steam and boundary-pushing with heart and a deep, abiding respect and love? Always a winning combination in romance!
March 3, 2016
Finding Their Balance, M.Q. Barber
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, Erotica
I’ve adored this series from the start, thought I’d love this book, and was kind of puzzled, disappointed at it not working well for me.
Its difficult to explain, but this time I felt it was very Club heavy, Henry’s words which I usually love seemed a bit ponderous, extraneous at times. Usually his voice makes me shiver almost, but this time, I just wanted to say “ c’mon, get to the point”. I can see where they’ve all grown so much, that they’re conquering fears both Alice and Jay have, and the balance they need is coming but...I just didn’t enjoy it.
I guess what I’ve loved is the struggles, the way things have been misunderstood, the drama that caused, and the journey up to them all being together. I like the outside bits, the picnic, the cabin, the Tuesday lunches, the art exhibition from one of the early books, and I missed those touches here. Its very focussed on the Club, Emma and Cal and the problems they cause for the trio. Henry’s worked hard and they’ve done well, but I missed the problems and issues * shrug* maybe? I don’t know, can’t seem to put my finger on anything really, just that this book hadn’t the magic of the earlier ones for me. Still, I’m just one voice and I can see its perfect for others – that’s they way it is with reading, its very subjective and what works for one doesn’t for another.
I’m glad I read this, but it won’t be a keeper and I think maybe its time for me and the trio to part ways.
Stars: Three, one of those that’s good but not right for me.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers for review purposes
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, Erotica
I’ve adored this series from the start, thought I’d love this book, and was kind of puzzled, disappointed at it not working well for me.
Its difficult to explain, but this time I felt it was very Club heavy, Henry’s words which I usually love seemed a bit ponderous, extraneous at times. Usually his voice makes me shiver almost, but this time, I just wanted to say “ c’mon, get to the point”. I can see where they’ve all grown so much, that they’re conquering fears both Alice and Jay have, and the balance they need is coming but...I just didn’t enjoy it.
I guess what I’ve loved is the struggles, the way things have been misunderstood, the drama that caused, and the journey up to them all being together. I like the outside bits, the picnic, the cabin, the Tuesday lunches, the art exhibition from one of the early books, and I missed those touches here. Its very focussed on the Club, Emma and Cal and the problems they cause for the trio. Henry’s worked hard and they’ve done well, but I missed the problems and issues * shrug* maybe? I don’t know, can’t seem to put my finger on anything really, just that this book hadn’t the magic of the earlier ones for me. Still, I’m just one voice and I can see its perfect for others – that’s they way it is with reading, its very subjective and what works for one doesn’t for another.
I’m glad I read this, but it won’t be a keeper and I think maybe its time for me and the trio to part ways.
Stars: Three, one of those that’s good but not right for me.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers for review purposes
January 29, 2016
This book is 5th in a series but you absolutely do NOT need to have read the other books to thoroughly enjoy this. There were past events mentioned and it made me wonder if there were previous books but I did not feel like I was missing anything. I felt like this story was pretty unique, Henry, the Dom, was an odd duck to me, but a gorgeous, sexy, smart and talented duck. I loved Jay, he is adorable, sexy, quirky, funny and so much more. As I'm thinking about him now, I'm certain there is going to be more to this threesome's story because there are some unresolved issues for him. I liked Alice, can't say I loved her, but she definitely fit in well with these 2 very different men. I enjoyed this so much I'll be looking for more about these characters and will go back and read the preceding stories! I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2016
I waited so long for this book! I loved the first two books in this series and liked the third. This, however, proved to be somewhat of a disappointment. All the things that bugged me about the third book (mainly the excessive lovey dovey stuff and Henry's paternalistic nature being turned up to the max in a way that is almost creepy) was even more in evidence here. The language also gets somewhat fruity and metaphor heavy rather than just being straight up [read: explicit] which, frankly, is what one looks for in good erotica [done well, please and thank you]. The much telegraphed and longed for DP scene? A disappointment. So I cannot give this one above 2.5 stars. If MQ Barber is planning another edition for our intrepid trio I will probably read it though. Hopefully, this one was just a dud.
February 17, 2016
I was given an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
What a mess! Finding their balance was a awful reading, I felt like DNFing but being a ARC I put myself through it. But it was painful to read it. Confusing and lacking I felt like I was reading a different book from the other readers who gave 5 stars.
What a mess! Finding their balance was a awful reading, I felt like DNFing but being a ARC I put myself through it. But it was painful to read it. Confusing and lacking I felt like I was reading a different book from the other readers who gave 5 stars.
March 8, 2016
Very emotional bdsm read. I personally would have liked to see a bit more about their professional and social lives. I felt it was mostly about their sex lives only.
Otherwise I would have given it 5 stars.
Otherwise I would have given it 5 stars.
May 19, 2017
5 stars
There isn't a thing about this book I didn't like; it was fabulous! There's gunna be more Henry, Jay and Alice right? I'm not ready to let them go.
There isn't a thing about this book I didn't like; it was fabulous! There's gunna be more Henry, Jay and Alice right? I'm not ready to let them go.
Read
September 20, 2019I loved it!!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your series. Although I think there needs to be another book!! I read tons of these and I'm looking for an epilogue at least. I'm dying to know if Jay and Alice go back with Henry to the club and play out some fantasies for others to watch. I want to know if Alice ever gets her fantasy of being knotted up? Does Will help? Does Will ever find his happily ever after after his boy graduates? Does Emma find another dominant and ever find happiness again? How does the visit with Emma's sister go? Does Jay ever accept Henry's love in public or tell his family? And finally, does Alice ever have a baby? There's so many unanswered questions. I would really like to know .... I'm very sure others do too!!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your series. Although I think there needs to be another book!! I read tons of these and I'm looking for an epilogue at least. I'm dying to know if Jay and Alice go back with Henry to the club and play out some fantasies for others to watch. I want to know if Alice ever gets her fantasy of being knotted up? Does Will help? Does Will ever find his happily ever after after his boy graduates? Does Emma find another dominant and ever find happiness again? How does the visit with Emma's sister go? Does Jay ever accept Henry's love in public or tell his family? And finally, does Alice ever have a baby? There's so many unanswered questions. I would really like to know .... I'm very sure others do too!!
November 13, 2018
2 stars
I was a bit lost for a little at first. I'm not sure if this was supposed to be a stand alone or not. It seemed like I was missing pieces of the story, like the whole beginning. After reading for a while I finally understood the plot a little better, but for the type of book it was supposed to be, I wasn't impressed. I was expecting more in depth steamy scenes but it stays rather vague and seemed hurried through. The concept and story line were pretty good and the characters are all loveable and admirable. I'm curious to see how their future unfolds bit I'm also hesitant to read more.
I was a bit lost for a little at first. I'm not sure if this was supposed to be a stand alone or not. It seemed like I was missing pieces of the story, like the whole beginning. After reading for a while I finally understood the plot a little better, but for the type of book it was supposed to be, I wasn't impressed. I was expecting more in depth steamy scenes but it stays rather vague and seemed hurried through. The concept and story line were pretty good and the characters are all loveable and admirable. I'm curious to see how their future unfolds bit I'm also hesitant to read more.
January 7, 2019
Finding Their Balance is part of a series so I would recommend reading that prior to diving into this book.
This book is pure erotica at its best! It's about a triad finding their way once the reality of what they are doing has set in.
For some reason, this book didn't flow as smoothly as the previous ones. It felt stunted at times and a bit confusing as to who was saying what. I still love this triad though, and I liked the secondary characters as well! I enjoyed seeing their love grow and move towards a bright and happy future. I hope further installments are in the future!
I voluntarily reviewed a gifted copy from Netgalley. The rating and review is my personal opinion.
This book is pure erotica at its best! It's about a triad finding their way once the reality of what they are doing has set in.
For some reason, this book didn't flow as smoothly as the previous ones. It felt stunted at times and a bit confusing as to who was saying what. I still love this triad though, and I liked the secondary characters as well! I enjoyed seeing their love grow and move towards a bright and happy future. I hope further installments are in the future!
I voluntarily reviewed a gifted copy from Netgalley. The rating and review is my personal opinion.
December 23, 2021
I continue to thoroughly enjoy this story, the characters and their emotional journey. This series is so well written, you get to experience the thoughts and emotions. This book bring the triad’s relationship through their first year living together. We see the shift, transition, and growth of their relationship as it grows in love. Jay finds his strength and the path to be his best Jay, Alice becomes a successful submissive and a Mistress, but most important becomes comfortable with loving both her men. Henry in all his perfection becomes human, showing his passions, emotions and long game strategy. Beautifully done.
May 22, 2019
Finale
This was the final installment of Henry, Alice and Jay’s journey. They are still learning how to adjust to life together as a triad and they also face the past demons that plague their harmony. The jealousy and trauma. Like I said about the other installments is that it wasn’t overdramatic, it was still an interesting story and I’m glad I read the series. Jay is so cute that I want to eat him up and Alice finally grows up and matured into the woman that she is meant to be under Henry’s guidance and his friendships.
This was the final installment of Henry, Alice and Jay’s journey. They are still learning how to adjust to life together as a triad and they also face the past demons that plague their harmony. The jealousy and trauma. Like I said about the other installments is that it wasn’t overdramatic, it was still an interesting story and I’m glad I read the series. Jay is so cute that I want to eat him up and Alice finally grows up and matured into the woman that she is meant to be under Henry’s guidance and his friendships.
September 2, 2021
Terribly written MMF sex novel. The prose and language is forced, overly dramatic, and sounds silly in the context of two men and one woman making love. It's certainly graphic (not merely "erotic" as others claim but essentially written porn) yet it's uninspired and repetitive. The author is a woman, so it's a very distorted perspective on how two men please each other as well as her. Not sure how this author got a series published, this is really bad stuff that might make you groan for all the wrong reasons.
April 28, 2023
Like other reviewers stated about this series and this author, I too hold all other mmf books up to the standard of emotions and sensuality that M.Q. has spoiled me on with her writings.
If you are reading this review without having read any other books in this series, but are interested in some low angst, sweet, emotional read that leaves you feeling good and not having tossed your Kindle across the room, give this series a try.
If you are reading this review and have already read the series this far, why bother reading this? You already know you are going to!
If you are reading this review without having read any other books in this series, but are interested in some low angst, sweet, emotional read that leaves you feeling good and not having tossed your Kindle across the room, give this series a try.
If you are reading this review and have already read the series this far, why bother reading this? You already know you are going to!
August 17, 2023
Like other reviewers stated about this series and this author, I too hold all other mmf books up to the standard of emotions and sensuality that M.Q. has spoiled me on with her writings.
If you are reading this review without having read any other books in this series, but are interested in some low angst, sweet, emotional read that leaves you feeling good and not having tossed your Kindle across the room, give this series a try.
If you are reading this review and have already read the series this far, why bother reading this? You already know you are going to!
If you are reading this review without having read any other books in this series, but are interested in some low angst, sweet, emotional read that leaves you feeling good and not having tossed your Kindle across the room, give this series a try.
If you are reading this review and have already read the series this far, why bother reading this? You already know you are going to!
August 17, 2023
Like other reviewers stated about this series and this author, I too hold all other mmf books up to the standard of emotions and sensuality that M.Q. has spoiled me on with her writings.
If you are reading this review without having read any other books in this series, but are interested in some low angst, sweet, emotional read that leaves you feeling good and not having tossed your Kindle across the room, give this series a try.
If you are reading this review and have already read the series this far, why bother reading this? You already know you are going to!
If you are reading this review without having read any other books in this series, but are interested in some low angst, sweet, emotional read that leaves you feeling good and not having tossed your Kindle across the room, give this series a try.
If you are reading this review and have already read the series this far, why bother reading this? You already know you are going to!
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