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After Hours #2
Bound in the Streets
Fiercely protective of her heart, India Burke let down her defenses when Cris Ardmore went from another notch on her D/s playdate belt to everything she could never admit she wanted.
But being disowned by your family and betrayed by your lover aren’t easy to get over, and India’s old fears of intimacy creep in against a backdrop of professional drama that forces her return to a place that never really felt like home.
Though she proved her loyalty when it mattered most, love is about more than grand gestures and Cris wants all of her—which may be more than India is able to give. Can Cris and India navigate to a shared future or will they forever be off course?
** Please Note: Intimate Geography is Book 2 of The Compass Series and CANNOT be read as a stand-alone. Personal Geography, the beginning of Cris and India’s story, released on December 1st 2014.**
But being disowned by your family and betrayed by your lover aren’t easy to get over, and India’s old fears of intimacy creep in against a backdrop of professional drama that forces her return to a place that never really felt like home.
Though she proved her loyalty when it mattered most, love is about more than grand gestures and Cris wants all of her—which may be more than India is able to give. Can Cris and India navigate to a shared future or will they forever be off course?
** Please Note: Intimate Geography is Book 2 of The Compass Series and CANNOT be read as a stand-alone. Personal Geography, the beginning of Cris and India’s story, released on December 1st 2014.**
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 19, 2015
90 people are currently reading
453 people want to read
About the author
Tamsen Parker
42 books391 followersTamsen Parker is a stay-at-home mom by day, erotic romance writer by naptime. She lives with her family outside of Boston, where she tweets too much, sleeps too little and is always in the middle of a book. Aside from good food, sweet rieslings and gin cocktails, she has a fondness for monograms and subway maps. She should really start drinking coffee.
You can sign up for her newsletter here to find out about her latest release, sales, or other goings on: http://bit.ly/1Bry07O
You can sign up for her newsletter here to find out about her latest release, sales, or other goings on: http://bit.ly/1Bry07O
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
March 4, 2015
Title: Intimate Geography
Author: Tamsen Parker
Genre: Erotic Romance
Type: Book 2 of The Compass series
POV: First Person - Female
Rating:
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
A significant event brought India Burke and Cris Ardmore closer together. After surviving a harrowing experience, India started to re-examine her tough exterior and chipped away the ice to slowly let Cris in.
However, old habits die hard and as much as she wanted to soften her stance, there was still a small part of her nagging in her conscious to protect her heart. And when a golden opportunity came knocking on her door, she must decide once and for all what is the most important thing for her to live for.
Intimate Geography started right where the first book left off. After the events that happened earlier, India decided to give their relationship a second chance.
Story wise, if the first book put emphasize on their BDSM relationship, this time around if focused more on their personal relationship and individual growth. Both of them learned to find a middle ground.
I’ve always like India as a strong female character. But I also like how she adapted to be more flexible without compromising her strength. I love her vulnerability of her unfamiliarity of doing things the normal way.
In previous book, I wanted to know more about Cris and I’m glad we got that now where we got to meet his parents and learn more about his friends. However, I think he was overshadowed by India a little because he was much softer now than before.
The book was at an average pace with enough issues to keep it going. However, I do have a couple of issue that nagged me. One was the scene jumping. The author would build up tension for a certain event to happen, only to cut the scene to the after instead of elaborating it with a scene.
Another one was the unfinished feeling when it comes to the supporting characters like Slade and her dad. It felt like they were faded out without additional explanation.
As mentioned earlier, this book focused more on their relationship than previously, but I have to say the sexy times were hotter than the last time. One of my favorite scene was with the switch right before they went to his parents’ house. And the angry sex with certain someone was smoking hot.
Intimate Geography is the conclusion of India and Cris story. There will be other books in the series and I’m hoping it will be about Slade because I’m intrigued by his character.
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Author: Tamsen Parker
Genre: Erotic Romance
Type: Book 2 of The Compass series
POV: First Person - Female
Rating:
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
A significant event brought India Burke and Cris Ardmore closer together. After surviving a harrowing experience, India started to re-examine her tough exterior and chipped away the ice to slowly let Cris in.
However, old habits die hard and as much as she wanted to soften her stance, there was still a small part of her nagging in her conscious to protect her heart. And when a golden opportunity came knocking on her door, she must decide once and for all what is the most important thing for her to live for.
Intimate Geography started right where the first book left off. After the events that happened earlier, India decided to give their relationship a second chance.
Story wise, if the first book put emphasize on their BDSM relationship, this time around if focused more on their personal relationship and individual growth. Both of them learned to find a middle ground.
I want to offer him something more precious other than my body. For the first time in years, I say the word to someone other than Rey. “I love you, Crispin.”
I’ve always like India as a strong female character. But I also like how she adapted to be more flexible without compromising her strength. I love her vulnerability of her unfamiliarity of doing things the normal way.
He’s at peace in his body. And why wouldn’t he be? He’s a masterpiece honed by the ocean. A work of art with a hard-on.
In previous book, I wanted to know more about Cris and I’m glad we got that now where we got to meet his parents and learn more about his friends. However, I think he was overshadowed by India a little because he was much softer now than before.
The book was at an average pace with enough issues to keep it going. However, I do have a couple of issue that nagged me. One was the scene jumping. The author would build up tension for a certain event to happen, only to cut the scene to the after instead of elaborating it with a scene.
Another one was the unfinished feeling when it comes to the supporting characters like Slade and her dad. It felt like they were faded out without additional explanation.
As mentioned earlier, this book focused more on their relationship than previously, but I have to say the sexy times were hotter than the last time. One of my favorite scene was with the switch right before they went to his parents’ house. And the angry sex with certain someone was smoking hot.
Intimate Geography is the conclusion of India and Cris story. There will be other books in the series and I’m hoping it will be about Slade because I’m intrigued by his character.
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
July 18, 2016
3* failed intimate, less kink STARS!
After what happened in the end of Personal Geography, I'm curious what happened with Cris. Before that, Cris called India and said that he need her but she plainly blow him off. I bet Cris was hurt and angry and that's the cause of the incident. India (and me, of course) couldn't breath with the news. It happened so fast and I cried so hard. Damn Cris!
India fly across ocean and cancelled all her appointment to be with him. She's starting to show how much she care for Cris. She stayed at the hospital to make sure everything is okay. The thing I didn't like is when... . I mean, WTF?! Are really going on that road? Okay this is my rants...
Days later, they try to 'repair' their relationship. India is starting to accept Cris in her personal life slowly. But when the shit strom hit her again and again, she closed herself and 'kick' Cris out of it. OMG... really? It just frustrated me how India treated Cris after everything. He's doing the best everything he could. He's calm and patient and waiting for her to open herself. I know it's not easy, but just don't do it again and again. Almost half of this book is deliberately annoyed me. They're moving in circles with the same shit. Even their BDSM scenes felt hollow. I don't feel any intimacy between them.
I know her past didn't end well. It's ugly and damaged her so bad. When Cris always get close to her, she's quickly withdrawn and never give him chance. Oh woman... when she got a job from New York and consider to move, she turns into an egoist woman. Her stressful and crazy job is killing her also some threat from the past still haunting her. I couldn't face her any longer. Poor Cris. Maybe the man like Cris in the real world will run down the hill?
Other that I didn't like is I don't get the answer I want. I expected to have more insight about Cris because the only thing I know is he's just a simple man who didn't like socialize? Obviously he's filthy rich. What makes him into a patient man is define by his age. He's almost forty and have more experience. He handle her carefully in the present day but I still want to know deeper about him. Unfortunately, there is no more information about him.
Overall, Intimate Geography is a decent read. I didn't like India in this book. I didn't like the portion of her crazy job and I drifted into it. Sometimes she's a selfish and manipulative bitch. India is emotionally unstable and Cris is following her like a puppy. I lost my interest with the rest until finished.
The ending was predictable and too rushed. It felt like unfinished business. I still couldn't find their connection. Their BDSM relationship lost in space. Honestly, it's a biggest turn off to not feel the BDSM since that's the main thing. I'm starting to doubt if they're starting to turn into vanilla. *shudders*
After what happened in the end of Personal Geography, I'm curious what happened with Cris. Before that, Cris called India and said that he need her but she plainly blow him off. I bet Cris was hurt and angry and that's the cause of the incident. India (and me, of course) couldn't breath with the news. It happened so fast and I cried so hard. Damn Cris!
India fly across ocean and cancelled all her appointment to be with him. She's starting to show how much she care for Cris. She stayed at the hospital to make sure everything is okay. The thing I didn't like is when... . I mean, WTF?! Are really going on that road? Okay this is my rants...
Days later, they try to 'repair' their relationship. India is starting to accept Cris in her personal life slowly. But when the shit strom hit her again and again, she closed herself and 'kick' Cris out of it. OMG... really? It just frustrated me how India treated Cris after everything. He's doing the best everything he could. He's calm and patient and waiting for her to open herself. I know it's not easy, but just don't do it again and again. Almost half of this book is deliberately annoyed me. They're moving in circles with the same shit. Even their BDSM scenes felt hollow. I don't feel any intimacy between them.
I know her past didn't end well. It's ugly and damaged her so bad. When Cris always get close to her, she's quickly withdrawn and never give him chance. Oh woman... when she got a job from New York and consider to move, she turns into an egoist woman. Her stressful and crazy job is killing her also some threat from the past still haunting her. I couldn't face her any longer. Poor Cris. Maybe the man like Cris in the real world will run down the hill?
“..., you’ve presented a challenge. It’s like you kept yourself locked in this safe, and I wanted the combination. I needed to get inside your head, figure out what makes you tick. I wanted every piece of you, and you were so intent on not letting me have a crumb.” ~Cris
Other that I didn't like is I don't get the answer I want. I expected to have more insight about Cris because the only thing I know is he's just a simple man who didn't like socialize? Obviously he's filthy rich. What makes him into a patient man is define by his age. He's almost forty and have more experience. He handle her carefully in the present day but I still want to know deeper about him. Unfortunately, there is no more information about him.
Overall, Intimate Geography is a decent read. I didn't like India in this book. I didn't like the portion of her crazy job and I drifted into it. Sometimes she's a selfish and manipulative bitch. India is emotionally unstable and Cris is following her like a puppy. I lost my interest with the rest until finished.
The ending was predictable and too rushed. It felt like unfinished business. I still couldn't find their connection. Their BDSM relationship lost in space. Honestly, it's a biggest turn off to not feel the BDSM since that's the main thing. I'm starting to doubt if they're starting to turn into vanilla. *shudders*
March 4, 2015
India wore on me a little bit too much in this book - I still like her - and I like that she has flaws and I think she is presented well - but it took two traumatic events for her to get on board with things and that got a little redundant. I don't think she treated Cris all that well at times - again - these flaws are presented well but they irked me too.
Full review coming.
Full review coming.
April 14, 2016
Intimate Geography is the second half of the story of India Burke and Cris Ardmore started in Personal Geography. Personal Geography ended on a cliffhanger and that's where Intimate Geography picks up. There are a lot of things to like about this series and a lot of things that bugged me so I'll try to deconstruct it.
What I liked about the series is that the heroine isn't afraid to be very, very difficult. She's ambitious, prickly and traumatized and her life doesn't have room for anything emotional. So her journey from completely closed up to opening to Cris made for a very effective heroine-centric narrative. I loved the focus on work, which is so important to her and really showcases the advantages of carrying on the way she has. In her job, being tough is a huge asset. And there is no easy solution for her; just a slog toward greater intimacy, not just with Cris, but with others in her life.
I had more difficulty with Cris. I loved that he wasn't the typical growly, damaged dominant of so much BDSM romance, but it almost went a little too far in the other direction for me. In both books, he's pretty much perfect. He rarely loses patience with India even when she's being difficult. He's gorgeous, comfortably set-up at work and home, has two loving parents and close friends, his job is flexible so he can chase India around and he's the ideal mind-reading dominant. If he has flaws, I missed them. Even when he finally does lose patience with India, he's the one who goes back and apologizes. I had trouble with the perfection. It's just not my favorite hero mode. I do wonder if being inside his head might have clarified his perspective but the books are both 1st person from India's.
The second thing I had difficulty with is that India's big emotional breakthroughs happen as a result of traumatic circumstances. It happened twice and cheapened the payoff of finally seeing her accept the love the people in her life have been offering. While it's true that big events in a person's life can sharpen their focus on what's important, unfortunately in fiction it has the effect of depriving the character of agency. So while it didn't feel entirely unrealistic, it made her growth somewhat unsatisfying for me. Luckily this didn't leave me with any doubts of the couple's happy ending. It only robbed the story of impact.
The other thing that I appreciated in these books was strong attention to detail in the BDSM scenes. I wasn't dragged out of the story by worries that what they were doing was unsafe or unlikely, which is a frequent gripe of mine with BDSM romance. The only downside is that the scenes sometimes felt a little clinical to me. Not that every BDSM romance has to be over-the-top hot. They conveyed what they needed to about the developing relationship between the pair.
All in all, this is a good effort by a debut author. It doesn't hit the heights of my very favorite BDSM romances, but nor did it make me write off this author. There's a lot to like here and it was different enough that I'm looking forward to picking up some of her more recent titles.
What I liked about the series is that the heroine isn't afraid to be very, very difficult. She's ambitious, prickly and traumatized and her life doesn't have room for anything emotional. So her journey from completely closed up to opening to Cris made for a very effective heroine-centric narrative. I loved the focus on work, which is so important to her and really showcases the advantages of carrying on the way she has. In her job, being tough is a huge asset. And there is no easy solution for her; just a slog toward greater intimacy, not just with Cris, but with others in her life.
I had more difficulty with Cris. I loved that he wasn't the typical growly, damaged dominant of so much BDSM romance, but it almost went a little too far in the other direction for me. In both books, he's pretty much perfect. He rarely loses patience with India even when she's being difficult. He's gorgeous, comfortably set-up at work and home, has two loving parents and close friends, his job is flexible so he can chase India around and he's the ideal mind-reading dominant. If he has flaws, I missed them. Even when he finally does lose patience with India, he's the one who goes back and apologizes. I had trouble with the perfection. It's just not my favorite hero mode. I do wonder if being inside his head might have clarified his perspective but the books are both 1st person from India's.
The second thing I had difficulty with is that India's big emotional breakthroughs happen as a result of traumatic circumstances. It happened twice and cheapened the payoff of finally seeing her accept the love the people in her life have been offering. While it's true that big events in a person's life can sharpen their focus on what's important, unfortunately in fiction it has the effect of depriving the character of agency. So while it didn't feel entirely unrealistic, it made her growth somewhat unsatisfying for me. Luckily this didn't leave me with any doubts of the couple's happy ending. It only robbed the story of impact.
The other thing that I appreciated in these books was strong attention to detail in the BDSM scenes. I wasn't dragged out of the story by worries that what they were doing was unsafe or unlikely, which is a frequent gripe of mine with BDSM romance. The only downside is that the scenes sometimes felt a little clinical to me. Not that every BDSM romance has to be over-the-top hot. They conveyed what they needed to about the developing relationship between the pair.
All in all, this is a good effort by a debut author. It doesn't hit the heights of my very favorite BDSM romances, but nor did it make me write off this author. There's a lot to like here and it was different enough that I'm looking forward to picking up some of her more recent titles.
April 1, 2015
This second and concluding part of India and Cris's romance continues directly where the first part left off. India makes a snap decision to go to Cris's side and so starts their relationship again. It's fraught with twists and turns as India must decide once and for all if she can trust her whole self to Cris.
I enjoyed this second half of the story very much. The first part struck me for its strong characterizations and the uniqueness of the plot. This part (for me) really focused on India and her inner struggle to believe that someone could accept both sides of her personality - her strong, taking no nonsense business side and her sexual submissive side with the right Dom. She is deathly afraid though of those two sides of her being known to anyone except a very small circle of trusted friends. Even though she loves Cris she doesn't trust him fully, having experienced the shattering pain of betrayal from loved ones before. Her journey to accept what Cris is offering, that he will love her whole self, is what makes up the majority of the story. Cris is the sweetest Dom I've ever encountered, willing to go to any lengths to reassure and care for India. The sex in this book is hot and kinky. Though I personally don't care for the idea of needing pain for pleasure, it's obvious that this is a key part of who India is, and Cris understands this and gives her what she needs. The story remains strong and moves swiftly from the start to the finish giving me exactly what I was looking for - an erotic romance with a sweet ending. 4 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
I enjoyed this second half of the story very much. The first part struck me for its strong characterizations and the uniqueness of the plot. This part (for me) really focused on India and her inner struggle to believe that someone could accept both sides of her personality - her strong, taking no nonsense business side and her sexual submissive side with the right Dom. She is deathly afraid though of those two sides of her being known to anyone except a very small circle of trusted friends. Even though she loves Cris she doesn't trust him fully, having experienced the shattering pain of betrayal from loved ones before. Her journey to accept what Cris is offering, that he will love her whole self, is what makes up the majority of the story. Cris is the sweetest Dom I've ever encountered, willing to go to any lengths to reassure and care for India. The sex in this book is hot and kinky. Though I personally don't care for the idea of needing pain for pleasure, it's obvious that this is a key part of who India is, and Cris understands this and gives her what she needs. The story remains strong and moves swiftly from the start to the finish giving me exactly what I was looking for - an erotic romance with a sweet ending. 4 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
February 27, 2015
So, having being left dangling over the cliff edge at the way Tamsen Parker ended Personal Geography, I have been somewhat eager to get my little hands on Intimate Geography. And on the whole, I've been left a happy reader.
Continuing straight on from where Personal Geography ended, this time round there is a slight shift from the BDSM and D/s aspect and it focuses on India and Cris' relationship. Yes there is sex, granted less kinky, heated and with a lesser D/s feel, but it's still hot and sexy. Cris has much more devoted to him; something I felt was neglected a little the first time round and I can only repeat what I said in my previous review; older, wiser, respectful and patient, he reads like a Dom and not some wealthy, arrogant douche on a power trip. Precisely why I liked him. And India, I may have found her a little unlikeable in book 1, but she blossoms and as her heart opens, she became much more likeable, but without losing her strong-willed edge or principles. Together they maintain a great chemistry and you can't not want them to find their HEA.
I had a couple of little quibbles after reading the first book, for example the timespan left me unsure what period was covered, but this wasn't the case this time around and the story flowed better for it. But, I still felt opportunities were missed, scenes were set up, but they weren't taken any further. Nevertheless it was a good conclusion and Tamsen Parker is definitely an author I'll be watching; I can't help but hope that she will revisit some of the secondary characters from her Compass series and bring us their stories.
3.5 stars.
Note: Intimate Geography is the concluding part to a 2 book series and as such isn't a standalone read.
This review will appear on Read Your Writes book reviews.
Copy generously provided by the author via Netgalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Continuing straight on from where Personal Geography ended, this time round there is a slight shift from the BDSM and D/s aspect and it focuses on India and Cris' relationship. Yes there is sex, granted less kinky, heated and with a lesser D/s feel, but it's still hot and sexy. Cris has much more devoted to him; something I felt was neglected a little the first time round and I can only repeat what I said in my previous review; older, wiser, respectful and patient, he reads like a Dom and not some wealthy, arrogant douche on a power trip. Precisely why I liked him. And India, I may have found her a little unlikeable in book 1, but she blossoms and as her heart opens, she became much more likeable, but without losing her strong-willed edge or principles. Together they maintain a great chemistry and you can't not want them to find their HEA.
I had a couple of little quibbles after reading the first book, for example the timespan left me unsure what period was covered, but this wasn't the case this time around and the story flowed better for it. But, I still felt opportunities were missed, scenes were set up, but they weren't taken any further. Nevertheless it was a good conclusion and Tamsen Parker is definitely an author I'll be watching; I can't help but hope that she will revisit some of the secondary characters from her Compass series and bring us their stories.
3.5 stars.
Note: Intimate Geography is the concluding part to a 2 book series and as such isn't a standalone read.
This review will appear on Read Your Writes book reviews.
Copy generously provided by the author via Netgalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
April 16, 2018
The last book ended in a cliffhanger that forced India Burke to explore her emotional connection to her Dom outside of the playroom. Cris Admore also struggles with her boundaries, and can they have more.
The Good:
1. This was an emotional journey. We get a better view of what built India into this study in duality.
2. I love this hero. I'm normally team alphahole, but there is something to be said for being the calm in a storm.
3. We get a glimpse of Rey, her handler in the first book, but he makes a much bigger impression here. I normally hate the gay best friend trope, but this guy deserves, and got his own book
.
The Bad:
1. This might be too much angst for my low angst loving friends.
2. India is a lot. She might drive you crazy with self sabotaging ways.
Final Thoughts:
Sometimes angst is entertaining. This is one of those books. Please head the warning in the blurb, you have to read the first book to get into this.
The Good:
1. This was an emotional journey. We get a better view of what built India into this study in duality.
2. I love this hero. I'm normally team alphahole, but there is something to be said for being the calm in a storm.
3. We get a glimpse of Rey, her handler in the first book, but he makes a much bigger impression here. I normally hate the gay best friend trope, but this guy deserves, and got his own book
.The Bad:
1. This might be too much angst for my low angst loving friends.
2. India is a lot. She might drive you crazy with self sabotaging ways.
Final Thoughts:
Sometimes angst is entertaining. This is one of those books. Please head the warning in the blurb, you have to read the first book to get into this.
May 20, 2020
Intimate Geography is a sexy, hot read that keeps you addicted at every turn!
I did not read the first novel in this series, Personal Geography, but I was still able to follow the plot pretty well. I did have some confusion at the beginning of the book, but once you get into the novel not knowing the first book isn't much of a problem. Once you are about one quarter of the way into the book, Tamsen Parker has given you enough background for the reader to at least have a general understanding of the relationships of the characters.
I would suggest reading the first book since the sequel is it's own novel and doesn't explain every detail about what happened in the first novel though. So I will be trying to pick it up myself to grasp a better understanding! Please be aware of this during my review, that I did not read the first book.
Intimate Geography is definitely an R rated book. It has lots of sex and BDSM throughout the novel. But this novel is not a "Fifty Shades of Grey" novel, it's much better! This novel has a plot, follows India (the main character) throughout her career, and has her balancing friends, family, romance and career like any normal person does. Of course, India's adventures are much more exaggerated than a normal person's troubles, but that's what makes this book so much fun!
The entire novel is very realistic, despite all the drama that occurs. Nothing seems to out of whack or misplaced, such as plot movements and big developments. Throughout the novel, I felt like this could actually be happening to someone and it felt real.
I did not expect the plot twists, and I usually am the first to guess them. Tamsen did a wonderful job changing up the plot to keep the novel interesting, and keep me addicted the whole time.
It is not your typical romance, but it is definitely a thrilling ride!
Anyone who likes: Erotic novels, romance, emotional and dramatic books, or shocking plot twists would love this novel!
Overall, I give this fantastic fictional read a five out of five stars! There weren't points wrong with this novel. If anything, Tamsen could add a little more background about the last book for new readers, but previous readers may find that boring and tedious.
Wonderful novel! Five out of five stars! I loved it!
I did not read the first novel in this series, Personal Geography, but I was still able to follow the plot pretty well. I did have some confusion at the beginning of the book, but once you get into the novel not knowing the first book isn't much of a problem. Once you are about one quarter of the way into the book, Tamsen Parker has given you enough background for the reader to at least have a general understanding of the relationships of the characters.
I would suggest reading the first book since the sequel is it's own novel and doesn't explain every detail about what happened in the first novel though. So I will be trying to pick it up myself to grasp a better understanding! Please be aware of this during my review, that I did not read the first book.
Intimate Geography is definitely an R rated book. It has lots of sex and BDSM throughout the novel. But this novel is not a "Fifty Shades of Grey" novel, it's much better! This novel has a plot, follows India (the main character) throughout her career, and has her balancing friends, family, romance and career like any normal person does. Of course, India's adventures are much more exaggerated than a normal person's troubles, but that's what makes this book so much fun!
The entire novel is very realistic, despite all the drama that occurs. Nothing seems to out of whack or misplaced, such as plot movements and big developments. Throughout the novel, I felt like this could actually be happening to someone and it felt real.
I did not expect the plot twists, and I usually am the first to guess them. Tamsen did a wonderful job changing up the plot to keep the novel interesting, and keep me addicted the whole time.
It is not your typical romance, but it is definitely a thrilling ride!
Anyone who likes: Erotic novels, romance, emotional and dramatic books, or shocking plot twists would love this novel!
Overall, I give this fantastic fictional read a five out of five stars! There weren't points wrong with this novel. If anything, Tamsen could add a little more background about the last book for new readers, but previous readers may find that boring and tedious.
Wonderful novel! Five out of five stars! I loved it!
February 2, 2015
I had to start this book as soon as I finished Personal Geography because of the huge cliffhanger. I needed to know how Cris and India's story concluded, yet whilst this book was a good read, I don't think it lived up to the first.
Intimate Geography picks up straight after Personal Geography ends. You're thrown into the emotions and action, which might be a little jarring if you haven't read the first book in a while. However, considering I had this book on hand as soon as I finished book one I enjoyed the start. There wasn't any backtracking that you find in so many sequels.
Similarly the characters do grow in this book--especially India. I enjoyed reading about her becoming more trusting, and how Cris was able to bring a different side out of her to all of the other guys previously in her life. However, the issues between them at times did feel contrived and only there for drama. The same things happened a bit too often.
Moreover, other scenes did feel repetitive, which was the biggest issue I had. I found myself skimming at times because not much happened to move things on. There were once again scenes we were told about and not shown (e.g. Cris' friends) and I was frustrated they weren't included as I thought they'd have added to the development. Things were a bit jumpy because of this. There were a lot of strands to the plot but I never felt fully satisfied they were all tied up at the end. What happened with her dad? etc. Things just got lost a long the way for me without coming to a resolution.
Overall though, this was still a good book. The characters did evolve, but it wasn't as hot as book 1, and I'm not sure it's a great conclusion.
Intimate Geography picks up straight after Personal Geography ends. You're thrown into the emotions and action, which might be a little jarring if you haven't read the first book in a while. However, considering I had this book on hand as soon as I finished book one I enjoyed the start. There wasn't any backtracking that you find in so many sequels.
Similarly the characters do grow in this book--especially India. I enjoyed reading about her becoming more trusting, and how Cris was able to bring a different side out of her to all of the other guys previously in her life. However, the issues between them at times did feel contrived and only there for drama. The same things happened a bit too often.
Moreover, other scenes did feel repetitive, which was the biggest issue I had. I found myself skimming at times because not much happened to move things on. There were once again scenes we were told about and not shown (e.g. Cris' friends) and I was frustrated they weren't included as I thought they'd have added to the development. Things were a bit jumpy because of this. There were a lot of strands to the plot but I never felt fully satisfied they were all tied up at the end. What happened with her dad? etc. Things just got lost a long the way for me without coming to a resolution.
Overall though, this was still a good book. The characters did evolve, but it wasn't as hot as book 1, and I'm not sure it's a great conclusion.
July 3, 2015
4.5 stars
In this follow-up to Physical Geography, India must come to terms with her feelings for Cris. and even though her heart knows what it wants, her head keeps her from totally submitting to having a real relationship.Cris is struggling too with how they'll work out their relationship with the long distance between them and India getting more focused on her job.
There's quite a bit more about India's career in this second book, and I loved that India was a focused career-minded woman. I don't often see female characters that are this driven, and that made her so very appealing to me.
Without giving away any spoilers, this installment was as much of a page-turner as the first book was for me, and I was really invested in knowing whether these two would make it or not. There's some twists and turns to be had to their relationship yet, and I really enjoyed how it all played out in this book.
I recommend this series to readers of erotic romance with a D/s theme.
ARC provided for review.
This review also appears on my blog at: http://redhotbluereads.blogspot.com/2015/03/reviewintimate-geography-compass-series.html
In this follow-up to Physical Geography, India must come to terms with her feelings for Cris. and even though her heart knows what it wants, her head keeps her from totally submitting to having a real relationship.Cris is struggling too with how they'll work out their relationship with the long distance between them and India getting more focused on her job.
There's quite a bit more about India's career in this second book, and I loved that India was a focused career-minded woman. I don't often see female characters that are this driven, and that made her so very appealing to me.
Without giving away any spoilers, this installment was as much of a page-turner as the first book was for me, and I was really invested in knowing whether these two would make it or not. There's some twists and turns to be had to their relationship yet, and I really enjoyed how it all played out in this book.
I recommend this series to readers of erotic romance with a D/s theme.
ARC provided for review.
This review also appears on my blog at: http://redhotbluereads.blogspot.com/2015/03/reviewintimate-geography-compass-series.html
December 24, 2017
Intimate Geography was more story and less erotica than Personal Geography.
It's good that Cris cared so much about India because India created so many barriers to her heart I ceased caring by the end of book 2. I think the author could have wrapped it all up by adding 20 more pages in Book 1 and I would have been happy. I liked Book 1 but would recommend dealing with the cliffhanger you've been handed rather than read through Book 2.
Sometimes, it's just not worth it.
-EM
It's good that Cris cared so much about India because India created so many barriers to her heart I ceased caring by the end of book 2. I think the author could have wrapped it all up by adding 20 more pages in Book 1 and I would have been happy. I liked Book 1 but would recommend dealing with the cliffhanger you've been handed rather than read through Book 2.
Sometimes, it's just not worth it.
-EM
March 7, 2015
Cris and India
I don't think India deserved Cris in this one. He was so sweet and amazing, she was....not. And a certain event almost took this one down to two stars for me. I was not feeling it at all.
I don't think India deserved Cris in this one. He was so sweet and amazing, she was....not. And a certain event almost took this one down to two stars for me. I was not feeling it at all.
March 14, 2021
Satisfying conclusion
Maybe a little bit over the top at times, but I nevertheless enjoyed the conclusion to India and Cris’s story. Bits and pieces bothered me slightly and it maybe had a little less spark than the first book. But I will definitely be giving the rest of the series a chance.
Maybe a little bit over the top at times, but I nevertheless enjoyed the conclusion to India and Cris’s story. Bits and pieces bothered me slightly and it maybe had a little less spark than the first book. But I will definitely be giving the rest of the series a chance.
August 25, 2015
I really enjoyed the continuation of the India and Cris story. This is definitely not a stand alone. Without reading Personal Geography first, it would not have been as enjoyable.
The author did a really good job with dialog and pacing. The story and conversations flowed really well for me. This was the first time we experienced Cris and India outside of their Kona bubble.
With both books, it was a nice switch from stereotyping that Cris has a non-traditional career and India is a total work horse. India's character remains strong, complicated and interesting. I enjoyed the balance of a non-romantic plot and a romantic plot. The work and medical drama kept the story moving with a little mystery here and there. At first I wasn't sure, but I ended up liking how "the Ray situation" was tied up. It was unexpected but worked out very well. Romantically, the book was a hit and the author showed us great chemistry between the characters.
After reading the reviews for Uncharted Territory #3, I am really looking forward to the next book. Also, I hope that there are subsequent books so we can find out what happens to their parents and the other side characters.
The author did a really good job with dialog and pacing. The story and conversations flowed really well for me. This was the first time we experienced Cris and India outside of their Kona bubble.
With both books, it was a nice switch from stereotyping that Cris has a non-traditional career and India is a total work horse. India's character remains strong, complicated and interesting. I enjoyed the balance of a non-romantic plot and a romantic plot. The work and medical drama kept the story moving with a little mystery here and there. At first I wasn't sure, but I ended up liking how "the Ray situation" was tied up. It was unexpected but worked out very well. Romantically, the book was a hit and the author showed us great chemistry between the characters.
After reading the reviews for Uncharted Territory #3, I am really looking forward to the next book. Also, I hope that there are subsequent books so we can find out what happens to their parents and the other side characters.
June 14, 2015
Just so good!! I have all the feelings. Only when I started reading this morning (yep, read it in a day) did I realise how anxious I'd been for the continuation of India and Cris's story. This was everything I wanted. A hell of a lot of stuff happens and there's an overuse of the 'major catastrophe to force people to examine their feelings' trope but i do not care about these minor flaws because I loved everything about this book. India remains unapologetically complex and fully formed, she's fierce as shit and she's messed up and it's so good to see a strong Normal Female Human in a romance/erotic novel. Cris is more rounded out in this novel, although he doesn't feel as 'complete' as India, but that's probably because the whole thing is from her POV. Together, they're wonderful and, again, the whole relationship feels adult, a partnership. The BDSM is explored in a thoughtful and provoking way. There's no judgment and a lot of understanding to the way Parker writes the sex. Not to mention, it's hot. I am just thrilled with this book and everyone should go read this series.
February 9, 2015
Received book as an ARC for an honest review
Let me just say I totally love the whole premise of this book. The author takes two very interesting characters and puts them together to make them explosive.
While she doesn't overly expand on the BDSM aspect of things, its never boring. If you are looking for hot sex at every turn, this is not the book for you. Its a nice combination of well built story with some BDSM exploration added to it.
I like the strong personality of India. She is not one to be walked all over but that being said, she also isn't easily swayed into opening up her whole self to the possibility of More.
I won't give spoilers but its definitely a book that is tops in my book. Well written and well executed.
Let me just say I totally love the whole premise of this book. The author takes two very interesting characters and puts them together to make them explosive.
While she doesn't overly expand on the BDSM aspect of things, its never boring. If you are looking for hot sex at every turn, this is not the book for you. Its a nice combination of well built story with some BDSM exploration added to it.
I like the strong personality of India. She is not one to be walked all over but that being said, she also isn't easily swayed into opening up her whole self to the possibility of More.
I won't give spoilers but its definitely a book that is tops in my book. Well written and well executed.
January 20, 2015
I had the privilege of reading this early, thanks to the author, and I'm so pleased with how it more than fulfills the great promise of Personal Geography, the first book which blew me away last fall. If you loved that book and you're impatiently awaiting India and Cris's HEA, this book will be worth the wait.
dnf
May 15, 2022DNF at 73%
This is way too overly reliant on trauma (whether the MCs or minor characters) to move the plot forward. I don't trust this will end in a way that will work with me based on a plot choice in chapter 18. It’s not unsurprising After deciding to DNF, I skipped a couple of chapters ahead and my instinct was confirmed:
The other issue is I lost my patience with India, plain and simple. After the emotionally manipulative cliffhanger of the first book, I had major doubts about whether there was enough story to warrant a whole second book. There isn’t. Not without relying on excessive external conflicts. India’s mixed signals got tired real fast. There were parts of her prickly personality that I enjoyed. I could understand why she was traumatized by her last relationship and why that made trust difficult. But there was no reason for her verbal abuse at work and there are limits to yanking someone around and keeping them at a distance. I thought she did Cris—and Rey—real dirty. Frankly, I don’t understand why Cris loved her beyond her being a good submissive, nor did I understand what Rey got out of their codependent friendship. Rey should have forced her to go to therapy years ago. It would have gone a long way if India could have had breakthroughs that didn’t result from someone experiencing trauma.
I’ve loved other books by Parker, including the 5th book in this series, but this duology was clearly her debut.
Characters: India is a 29 year old bisexual white public sector agency consultant and submissive with heterochromia. Crispin is a 40 year old white political cartoonist, Dom, and surfer. This is largely set in San Diego and Kona, HI.
Content notes: panic attack, internalized ableism around mental health (FMC refers to herself as crazy and insane), intimate partner violence (minor character ), past image-based sexual abuse , off-page surfing accident resulting in ICU stay for MMC (head injury, broken leg, no lasting issues), verbally abusive workplace (FMC contributes to this culture), codependent relationship with best friend, family planning discussion (neither have been interested in having kids), privacy violation (best friend gave MMC her address without her knowledge), homophobia (boss had a bet with someone else about whether FMC was a homophobic slur), vomit (minor character), father is wheelchair user, diet culture, alcohol, inebriation (off page), on page sex, D/s, sadism, masochism, pain play, rough sex, anal play, impact play, bondage, rope play, sensory deprivation (gagged and blindfolded), sex toys, nipple and clip clamps, subspace, orgasm control, STD stigma, genitalia-based insults, gendered pejoratives, gender essentialism, ableist language, Master/slave BDSM terminology, “slaving in the kitchen” as slang
*Buddy read with Vicky!
This is way too overly reliant on trauma (whether the MCs or minor characters) to move the plot forward. I don't trust this will end in a way that will work with me based on a plot choice in chapter 18. It’s not unsurprising After deciding to DNF, I skipped a couple of chapters ahead and my instinct was confirmed:
The other issue is I lost my patience with India, plain and simple. After the emotionally manipulative cliffhanger of the first book, I had major doubts about whether there was enough story to warrant a whole second book. There isn’t. Not without relying on excessive external conflicts. India’s mixed signals got tired real fast. There were parts of her prickly personality that I enjoyed. I could understand why she was traumatized by her last relationship and why that made trust difficult. But there was no reason for her verbal abuse at work and there are limits to yanking someone around and keeping them at a distance. I thought she did Cris—and Rey—real dirty. Frankly, I don’t understand why Cris loved her beyond her being a good submissive, nor did I understand what Rey got out of their codependent friendship. Rey should have forced her to go to therapy years ago. It would have gone a long way if India could have had breakthroughs that didn’t result from someone experiencing trauma.
I’ve loved other books by Parker, including the 5th book in this series, but this duology was clearly her debut.
Characters: India is a 29 year old bisexual white public sector agency consultant and submissive with heterochromia. Crispin is a 40 year old white political cartoonist, Dom, and surfer. This is largely set in San Diego and Kona, HI.
Content notes: panic attack, internalized ableism around mental health (FMC refers to herself as crazy and insane), intimate partner violence (minor character ), past image-based sexual abuse , off-page surfing accident resulting in ICU stay for MMC (head injury, broken leg, no lasting issues), verbally abusive workplace (FMC contributes to this culture), codependent relationship with best friend, family planning discussion (neither have been interested in having kids), privacy violation (best friend gave MMC her address without her knowledge), homophobia (boss had a bet with someone else about whether FMC was a homophobic slur), vomit (minor character), father is wheelchair user, diet culture, alcohol, inebriation (off page), on page sex, D/s, sadism, masochism, pain play, rough sex, anal play, impact play, bondage, rope play, sensory deprivation (gagged and blindfolded), sex toys, nipple and clip clamps, subspace, orgasm control, STD stigma, genitalia-based insults, gendered pejoratives, gender essentialism, ableist language, Master/slave BDSM terminology, “slaving in the kitchen” as slang
*Buddy read with Vicky!
March 2, 2015
Intimate Geography, Book 2 of The Compass Series, Tamsen Parker
Genre: Romance, Erotica.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
This picks up where book one left off, and India has dropped everything to be with Cris in the hospital. She barely moves from his side while he’s unconscious. He’s of course delighted to see her after she broke things off once he wakes, and it seems as though she’s taken a huge step forward with what she can give emotionally. Soon he’s home with a private nurse staying, and though India stays at first she has to return to work. It seems hard now being away from Cris, but they phone frequently and she’s back to visiting when she can. Cris cautiously makes a huge breakthrough with her when she agrees to meet his parents, but the anxiety it causes is huge, even though she was fine talking to them in the hospital.
Work is giving her problems too – she’s doing really well but two key staff members leave at a really bad time. It means she has to take on even more, and of course Jack is always seeking new work – that's the point of owing a business of course, so there doesn’t seem to be any let up. Pressures mount and what she’s been avoiding for many years happens, she gets sent to troubleshoot a problem in Chicago.....the city which she swore never to return.The work pressures are mounting, her worry over Chicago is taking over her thoughts, and its only her time with Cris that keeps her going. This continues over the next few months, and its hard for both with her free time being very restricted.
Its an on-off round about romance. They’ve moved forward a few steps but India seems to Cris to drag her heels every step, and there comes a time when it looks like she can’t or won’t move forward any further. In the midst of this she and Cris split. He wants more than she can give, of course he does. They’re clearly far closer than just Dom and sub, but India is clinging to her rules, to the format that’s kept her mentally sound for so long. Cris wants more – or at least the hope of more, and she just can’t give it. He has to decide – is this weird half life romance going to be enough for him or is it time to cut loose? Its comes at a harsh cost for both of them. She’s heartbroken all over again and the wonderful Rey once more steps up. She can’t go back to her old casual one off weekends though – Cris has changed her and that just doesn't appeal any more. It means she makes what could be a very dangerous decision.
I love Cris, he’s a really wonderful, thoughtful, giving man and what he wants is really very simple, someone to share his life as a partner, not as a sub with rules and restrictions on what he can do and say. Its not really so much to ask is it – especially as he’s clearly very understanding of India and her problems? After all if you love someone you don’t want to hurt them do you? I so felt for him, he seemed to be the one doing all the giving, making time to understand India, to work with her and help her and she seemed to me to be all take.
India – I found it hard to like her to be honest, and I think that's the root of my problems with the novel. I know she’s had a traumatic childhood, and then the disastrous years with Hunter, but one can’t keep hanging on to hurt forever, and using it as an excuse to keep others at a distance. That’s putting the blame on them for things they haven’t done. She seems to do just that though.
Rey, what an incredible friend, he gives up so much for her, drops everything to be with her when she needs him, no matter how important it is. He’s looked after her for so long and yet I can’t seem to pinpoint anything she’s actually done for him – it’s a very one sided relationship, much as I see her relationship with Cris. Her need to keep her life compartmentalised just isn’t working any more, but she’s stubbornly clinging on. Then Rey does something, it’s needed and had a good outcome but she’s distraught, angry at him, hurt, and she cuts him off. He knew this would likely result and yet as a true friend he put what she needed first. She can’t see that, can’t see how much she’s hurting him and once again I get the feeling she’s very self centred.
Can she find a way forward with Cris, can she find the right life/work balance and can she ever forgive Rey, and get back their friendship? Its all in the balance, and we see much more of her life at work and outside the sexual side, in this part of the story. We see how she’s slowly changing, how she overcomes some of her huge fears that have held her back, and through that she looks at herself IMO and sees how difficult she makes life for others, even her subordinates at work.
I enjoyed this book more than the first, there seemed much more story, and I enjoyed that, looking between the lines, the events, to see what I thought would be the outcome. There’s a brief epilogue too, showing the reader how things turn out. I like those, they satisfy my curiosity about things – that the HEA really is going to work and isn’t just a quick fix that falls apart once again.
Stars: Four. I felt this had much more balance and story that part one and I enjoyed it. I could see India moving forward but TBH I still found her hard to like, and that’s probably why this isn’t a five star for me.
ARC provided by Netgalley and publishers.
March 13, 2018
Very interesting story
This is not a trope I usually read but I have really enjoyed books 1 and 2 in this series. The relationship that is built from a contract between India and Cris is very interesting and is very healing for India. I loved Cris and his patience and love for India. Very good series.
This is not a trope I usually read but I have really enjoyed books 1 and 2 in this series. The relationship that is built from a contract between India and Cris is very interesting and is very healing for India. I loved Cris and his patience and love for India. Very good series.
March 24, 2015
I’m really digging this series! I’m so happy India and Crispin found their happily ever after. They went through a lot of bumps and roadblocks but they didn’t let those things keep them down. They wised up and realized that they wanted each other and no matter what life was going to throw at them, they would persevere together. I am equally exciting that this series is still continuing!!! YES!! I’m frigging hoping that the next book or books or hell the whole rest of the series is about Rey. Oh how I love this amazing dominant.
This story takes off right where the first one stopped. This novel in my opinion, had more action things going on than romance type things. The romantic element still played a big roll, don’t get me wrong, but the sex scenes sort of took a back seat to India’s job obstacles. That’s not to say the sex scenes were lacking, no! They were still as hot as ever and uniquely their own. I really liked the other story arcs this presented it wasn’t just about India and Crispin, but India’s job, and a couple other characters that come out of the woodwork. Actually right behind Rey as my favorite character I actually really loved India’s boss, Jack! I thought he was going to be a problem in the first book but damn did he prove me wrong, he was kind of like a pseudo father to India and I loved it!
India grew so much in this story as a character from beginning to end. Unfortunately it was still a slower kind of process. I liked that Crispin put his foot down (towards the middle of the story) and demanded more from her. But at the same time while reading from India’s perspective, she had made such leaps and bounds in terms of pushing herself to be in a seemingly regular relationship with Crispin. I kind of feel like they both didn’t give each other enough credit; Cris for being patient and understanding and India for going farther with him than any other guy.
My one big problem with the story was India’s temporary falling out with Rey! UGH! I’m happy that she was able to see the light after a couple of months but at the same time she really shouldn’t have acted like a big ol’ brat in the first place. Also I had a slight problem with the time span of the story. Book 1 and book 2 span about 2 years of Crispin and India’s relationship. It didn’t really feel that long. While I was reading book 2, India alluded to the fact that they had been together for almost two years despite their hiccups, I was like whoa…two years? Really?? Already??? I was a little caught off guard but at the same time I was super happy because the author could have really dragged out the story made it super long winded.
In the end this is a great BDSM series with a phenomenal heroine. It was different from what I was used to but a good different. I’m so ecstatic that the Compass series is continuing! I will definitely be on the lookout for more from this author!! If you’re in the mood for some extra steamy love scenes and a couple that just won’t quit, come and figure out which direction they are headed!!!
You can find this review and many more here: http://butterfly-o-meter.com/
This story takes off right where the first one stopped. This novel in my opinion, had more action things going on than romance type things. The romantic element still played a big roll, don’t get me wrong, but the sex scenes sort of took a back seat to India’s job obstacles. That’s not to say the sex scenes were lacking, no! They were still as hot as ever and uniquely their own. I really liked the other story arcs this presented it wasn’t just about India and Crispin, but India’s job, and a couple other characters that come out of the woodwork. Actually right behind Rey as my favorite character I actually really loved India’s boss, Jack! I thought he was going to be a problem in the first book but damn did he prove me wrong, he was kind of like a pseudo father to India and I loved it!
India grew so much in this story as a character from beginning to end. Unfortunately it was still a slower kind of process. I liked that Crispin put his foot down (towards the middle of the story) and demanded more from her. But at the same time while reading from India’s perspective, she had made such leaps and bounds in terms of pushing herself to be in a seemingly regular relationship with Crispin. I kind of feel like they both didn’t give each other enough credit; Cris for being patient and understanding and India for going farther with him than any other guy.
My one big problem with the story was India’s temporary falling out with Rey! UGH! I’m happy that she was able to see the light after a couple of months but at the same time she really shouldn’t have acted like a big ol’ brat in the first place. Also I had a slight problem with the time span of the story. Book 1 and book 2 span about 2 years of Crispin and India’s relationship. It didn’t really feel that long. While I was reading book 2, India alluded to the fact that they had been together for almost two years despite their hiccups, I was like whoa…two years? Really?? Already??? I was a little caught off guard but at the same time I was super happy because the author could have really dragged out the story made it super long winded.
In the end this is a great BDSM series with a phenomenal heroine. It was different from what I was used to but a good different. I’m so ecstatic that the Compass series is continuing! I will definitely be on the lookout for more from this author!! If you’re in the mood for some extra steamy love scenes and a couple that just won’t quit, come and figure out which direction they are headed!!!
You can find this review and many more here: http://butterfly-o-meter.com/
November 11, 2019
Ask anyone and they'll tell you that India Burke is a hardass: a no-nonsense, take-no-prisoners businesswoman who excels at her job as a consultant identifying wasteful spending in public sector projects. But even India has her breaking point, and her latest assignment working with the Los Angeles Housing Authority, and the 80 hour weeks that come with it, has left her desperate to get away for a long weekend - the kind that comes with ropes and paddles and a retreat into the blessed quiet of her subspace. Having survived one disastrous love affair, India doesn't "do" relationships, so it's convenient that Reyes, her best friend, is a kind of BDSM sommelier with a cellar-full of potential playdates. This time Reyes recommends Dom Cris Ardmore, a rare Hawaiian vintage freshly decanted after a five-year relationship, who happens to pair well with spankings. India has concerns about the clause in Cris's contract that stipulates that the two of them actually have a conversation, but she hops the next plane to the Big Island nonetheless, only to discover Cris threatens the hard limits she's put around her heart.
The first two installments of Tamsen Parker's Compass series, Personal Geography and Intimate Geography, are also confusingly known as Alpha in the Sheets and Bound in the Streets, which you may see referred to as the After Hours series. Taken together, they tell Cris and India's story - the cliffhanger of the first book is literally the midpoint conflict - so I consider them halves of a single book and am reviewing them as such.
Parker pairs steamy BDSM with slow-burn emotional development to create a surprisingly sweet romance, though it's important to note that while the depictions of kink are healthy the heroine's use of it as a substitute for working through her emotional issues seems less so, and her relationship with her best friend feels wildly codependent. Parker does the work to clear up all that emotional baggage and toxicity by tale's end, but it's difficult when midway through the novel India makes a comment about another characters' unresolved issues spilling over into his work behavior not to roll your eyes and suggest that girlfriend take a look in the damn mirror. My only real disappointment here is that the entire story is seen through India's POV. We get nary a glimpse inside Cris's head, so he comes off as a bit saintly, particularly when India's being exceptionally difficult and it's hard to figure out why he's so determinedly chasing this relationship.
Taken together, Personal and Intimate Geography offer a compelling and erotic romance, and are a solid start to Parker's series - whichever name it happens to be going by this week.
The first two installments of Tamsen Parker's Compass series, Personal Geography and Intimate Geography, are also confusingly known as Alpha in the Sheets and Bound in the Streets, which you may see referred to as the After Hours series. Taken together, they tell Cris and India's story - the cliffhanger of the first book is literally the midpoint conflict - so I consider them halves of a single book and am reviewing them as such.
Parker pairs steamy BDSM with slow-burn emotional development to create a surprisingly sweet romance, though it's important to note that while the depictions of kink are healthy the heroine's use of it as a substitute for working through her emotional issues seems less so, and her relationship with her best friend feels wildly codependent. Parker does the work to clear up all that emotional baggage and toxicity by tale's end, but it's difficult when midway through the novel India makes a comment about another characters' unresolved issues spilling over into his work behavior not to roll your eyes and suggest that girlfriend take a look in the damn mirror. My only real disappointment here is that the entire story is seen through India's POV. We get nary a glimpse inside Cris's head, so he comes off as a bit saintly, particularly when India's being exceptionally difficult and it's hard to figure out why he's so determinedly chasing this relationship.
Taken together, Personal and Intimate Geography offer a compelling and erotic romance, and are a solid start to Parker's series - whichever name it happens to be going by this week.
March 16, 2015
ARC provided by NetGalley
INTIMATE GEOGRAPHY begins where PERSONAL GEOGRAPHY left off: with workaholic India abandoning her job to rush to the side of her former Dom/lover, Crispin, when his mother calls to tell her that Cris has been in a surfing accident. It's not a fatal one, but it does take Crispin some time to recover, and India moves into his house for several weeks to help. Living an everyday life with Cris is both comforting and difficult: "I'm not used to being Kit [India's sub personality] for long periods of time like this, and it's difficult to snap back and forth like I have to do with Vera [Cris's nurse] and Mary [Cris's mom]" (Loc 387). Never mind trying to "type on my laptop on a table on which I've been bound, gagged, fucked, and all manner of other things" (387). When India has to return to California, Cris is initially angered, but India actually opens up a bit and they talk through their frustrations, and their relationship seems to be moving toward another, more open level.
But Cris is a Hawaii guy, and India has no desire to leave her job. And so India starts to pull away again, and turns to Rey, not Cris, when she finds herself in a crisis. Cris, needless to say, is less than pleased: "I hate the fact that you trust me enough to tie you up and beat you, but not to call me and tell me how your day was" (1434). And so this time it is Cris, not India, who decides not to sign any more contracts, and break-up with India.
Some melodrama, including another hospital episode and a job offer on the East Coast, ensue before India and Cris finally get their HEA. I appreciated how Parker showed how difficult it is for a person to change and overcome previous trauma, even when one loves someone.
"Lover... husband, friend, Dominant, equal," thinks India in the book's final scene. A goal definitely worth the achievement.
INTIMATE GEOGRAPHY begins where PERSONAL GEOGRAPHY left off: with workaholic India abandoning her job to rush to the side of her former Dom/lover, Crispin, when his mother calls to tell her that Cris has been in a surfing accident. It's not a fatal one, but it does take Crispin some time to recover, and India moves into his house for several weeks to help. Living an everyday life with Cris is both comforting and difficult: "I'm not used to being Kit [India's sub personality] for long periods of time like this, and it's difficult to snap back and forth like I have to do with Vera [Cris's nurse] and Mary [Cris's mom]" (Loc 387). Never mind trying to "type on my laptop on a table on which I've been bound, gagged, fucked, and all manner of other things" (387). When India has to return to California, Cris is initially angered, but India actually opens up a bit and they talk through their frustrations, and their relationship seems to be moving toward another, more open level.
But Cris is a Hawaii guy, and India has no desire to leave her job. And so India starts to pull away again, and turns to Rey, not Cris, when she finds herself in a crisis. Cris, needless to say, is less than pleased: "I hate the fact that you trust me enough to tie you up and beat you, but not to call me and tell me how your day was" (1434). And so this time it is Cris, not India, who decides not to sign any more contracts, and break-up with India.
Some melodrama, including another hospital episode and a job offer on the East Coast, ensue before India and Cris finally get their HEA. I appreciated how Parker showed how difficult it is for a person to change and overcome previous trauma, even when one loves someone.
"Lover... husband, friend, Dominant, equal," thinks India in the book's final scene. A goal definitely worth the achievement.
April 11, 2016
Intimate Geography picks up right where Personal Geography left off and I couldn’t be happier. I don’t know what I would have done if it was a time leap or something like that. I didn’t necessarily enjoy the cliffhanger but it is what it is. *shrug* We see India going back to Hawaii to be with Cris and helping him through his recovery and in the meantime see her begin to open up and admit that she might just want and need someone around to pass the time with.
I enjoy India and Cris together. A lot. But I still have a lot of the same reservations with Intimate Geography that I had with it’s predecessor, there’s just not enough showing of their more personal feelings of each other outside of their BDSM relationship. It’s talked about. Quite a bit. But it’s just not shown. And the little bits we get seemed rushed. Yes, it was nice to see India finally admit that she cannot go through life alone and contract to contract, but I never once felt her desire, her revelation.
I did feel Intimate Geography was a bit repetitive. It was India’s same struggle after struggle. And her working and playing and then work. There never really seemed to be any real “downtime” to see how India and Cris are outside of their defined roles while either working or playing.
If you’re wanting a different kind of BDSM in your life, the Compass series is definitely for you. There are good characters with a healthy respect of how the community works. There’s tangible relationships strewn in the books, even if I cannot always feel for the main characters. The writing is really well and Tamsen Parker is definitely a go-to author for me.
I enjoy India and Cris together. A lot. But I still have a lot of the same reservations with Intimate Geography that I had with it’s predecessor, there’s just not enough showing of their more personal feelings of each other outside of their BDSM relationship. It’s talked about. Quite a bit. But it’s just not shown. And the little bits we get seemed rushed. Yes, it was nice to see India finally admit that she cannot go through life alone and contract to contract, but I never once felt her desire, her revelation.
I did feel Intimate Geography was a bit repetitive. It was India’s same struggle after struggle. And her working and playing and then work. There never really seemed to be any real “downtime” to see how India and Cris are outside of their defined roles while either working or playing.
If you’re wanting a different kind of BDSM in your life, the Compass series is definitely for you. There are good characters with a healthy respect of how the community works. There’s tangible relationships strewn in the books, even if I cannot always feel for the main characters. The writing is really well and Tamsen Parker is definitely a go-to author for me.
February 27, 2015
I loved Personal Geography, the first book in The Compass Geography. It was fresh, well written, new. I love “discovering” authors. And Tamsen Parker made my reading time just lovely.
India and Cris’s story was cut at the end of Personal Geography with a call from Cris’s mom telling India he’s been in an accident.
You can imagine how happy I was with that cliffy. I shared it with Tamsen. Along with almost weekly rants asking when Intimate Geography will release. I think I annoyed her to the point where she just decided to personally email me letting me know it’s on NetGalley. LOL
Cris and India are dealing with their emotions and with structuring a “normal” relationship around their unique bond. They’re madly in love with each other, and thankfully acknowledging it. They’re trying damn hard, and when all else fails, another monumental relationship is facing a big hurdle in order to mend other fences.
Cryptic, aren’t I? Hehehe
Parker sure didn’t make life reading this second installment easy. It’s packed with lovely smut, a lot of flying miles, one beautiful island and a lot of dealing with fears.
I loved this story. I loved how, while unique and complex, this story actually made sense to me. I can believe there’s an India and Cris out there, facing those challenges and loving life as they should.
4.5 Star
* Thank you Tamsen Parker for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Mwah.
India and Cris’s story was cut at the end of Personal Geography with a call from Cris’s mom telling India he’s been in an accident.
You can imagine how happy I was with that cliffy. I shared it with Tamsen. Along with almost weekly rants asking when Intimate Geography will release. I think I annoyed her to the point where she just decided to personally email me letting me know it’s on NetGalley. LOL
Cris and India are dealing with their emotions and with structuring a “normal” relationship around their unique bond. They’re madly in love with each other, and thankfully acknowledging it. They’re trying damn hard, and when all else fails, another monumental relationship is facing a big hurdle in order to mend other fences.
Cryptic, aren’t I? Hehehe
Parker sure didn’t make life reading this second installment easy. It’s packed with lovely smut, a lot of flying miles, one beautiful island and a lot of dealing with fears.
I loved this story. I loved how, while unique and complex, this story actually made sense to me. I can believe there’s an India and Cris out there, facing those challenges and loving life as they should.
4.5 Star
* Thank you Tamsen Parker for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Mwah.
March 7, 2015
**I received an ARC of this story in exchange for an honest review**
Cris and India are seeing each other, but only Ray and Matty know about it. India gets a phone call at her office from Cris's mom Mary. He's in a hospital in Honolulu. She immediately has her assistant book her a flight to Honolulu, letting go of all of her work commitments to be at his side, something that's highly unusual for her. While at the hospital, a nurse asks India what her relationship is to Cris and his mom refers to her has his fiance. India isn't sure if she still has a job, but upon calling Jack, she finds out that he's not going to fire her for being human. India gets along with Mary and finds her presence comforting, considering that she's been disowned from her own family. India continues to travel back and forth from her job in San Diego to Honolulu to be with Cris. He takes her to dinner with his parents, which is a big step for India. Cris wants more from India than she feels she can give, so they end the relationship. India turns to her closest friend Ray for comfort and help.
In this second book about India, I actually feel you see how much she grows, learns to trust, and give of herself upon an actual relationship with Cris. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey she traveled on in her growth. I recommend this book and series to anyone that enjoys these books and to anyone has a curiosity about this lifestyle and wants to see a well written book about it.
Cris and India are seeing each other, but only Ray and Matty know about it. India gets a phone call at her office from Cris's mom Mary. He's in a hospital in Honolulu. She immediately has her assistant book her a flight to Honolulu, letting go of all of her work commitments to be at his side, something that's highly unusual for her. While at the hospital, a nurse asks India what her relationship is to Cris and his mom refers to her has his fiance. India isn't sure if she still has a job, but upon calling Jack, she finds out that he's not going to fire her for being human. India gets along with Mary and finds her presence comforting, considering that she's been disowned from her own family. India continues to travel back and forth from her job in San Diego to Honolulu to be with Cris. He takes her to dinner with his parents, which is a big step for India. Cris wants more from India than she feels she can give, so they end the relationship. India turns to her closest friend Ray for comfort and help.
In this second book about India, I actually feel you see how much she grows, learns to trust, and give of herself upon an actual relationship with Cris. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey she traveled on in her growth. I recommend this book and series to anyone that enjoys these books and to anyone has a curiosity about this lifestyle and wants to see a well written book about it.
March 28, 2015
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com/
I was given a copy of this book to write an honest review for Cocktails and Books and Netgalley.
Tamsen Parker writes a compelling, steamy story in this second book and conclusion to the Compass series. It’s a provocative story about two people in a BDSM relationship. India is a brilliant, feisty attorney and has little patience for anyone who can’t keep up with her. Every one she works with is afraid of her and she has few friends. India enjoys the BDSM lifestyle and being a sub because it’s the one part of her life where she can give up control. When India and Cris first meet, it starts as a sexual relationship only, but as it grows into more, it scares India. Although she likes everything about Cris, India is afraid of getting too close. I went back and forth on my feelings about India. She has a lot of issues and was often whinny and selfish. She is terrified of getting too close to anyone and even though she cares about Cris, she hides her feelings. I like everything about Cris and he is amazingly patient with India. He is a nice, sensitive, compassionate guy and even though he is a DOM, he never does anything that makes India feel uncomfortable. He is intuitive to India’s needs without her having to tell him what she wants. When they are together sexually Cris has complete control as India’s DOM, but India controls all the other aspects of their relationship. This is an entertaining erotic story.
I was given a copy of this book to write an honest review for Cocktails and Books and Netgalley.
Tamsen Parker writes a compelling, steamy story in this second book and conclusion to the Compass series. It’s a provocative story about two people in a BDSM relationship. India is a brilliant, feisty attorney and has little patience for anyone who can’t keep up with her. Every one she works with is afraid of her and she has few friends. India enjoys the BDSM lifestyle and being a sub because it’s the one part of her life where she can give up control. When India and Cris first meet, it starts as a sexual relationship only, but as it grows into more, it scares India. Although she likes everything about Cris, India is afraid of getting too close. I went back and forth on my feelings about India. She has a lot of issues and was often whinny and selfish. She is terrified of getting too close to anyone and even though she cares about Cris, she hides her feelings. I like everything about Cris and he is amazingly patient with India. He is a nice, sensitive, compassionate guy and even though he is a DOM, he never does anything that makes India feel uncomfortable. He is intuitive to India’s needs without her having to tell him what she wants. When they are together sexually Cris has complete control as India’s DOM, but India controls all the other aspects of their relationship. This is an entertaining erotic story.
May 23, 2016
India wore me out! Just when I thought she was making progress and dealing with her issues, she acts like a whiny beyotch! Poor Cris. What he saw in her to put up with her foolishness, I have no idea. The entire time I was reading Intimate Geography, I kept asking that question. Besides the D/s aspect of their relationship, WTF does he see in her? She disregards his feelings, what he wants. It's all about her rules and her boundaries. Instead of being a sub, homegirl needs to see a qualified therapist! Even though Cris and India get their HEA in the end, I have a feeling her issues will always be a barrier between them. Who wants to live like that? Lord help them if they have children. They're going to be effed up if India doesn't get her head right.
India's parents are all kinds of messed up. I also don't understand why she has a Hindu nickname. All because her name is India? Is she Hindu? If not, that seemed odd to me. Also, I hope her sister Ivy is locked up somewhere so that she can't harm anyone because the girl sounds like a psychopath.
Anyhoo, the next book goes back to India's first D/s relationship when she was 18 years old and her relationship with Hunter. I can't find enough care in the world to read it. I don't like her character to summon even a smidge of sympathy.
India's parents are all kinds of messed up. I also don't understand why she has a Hindu nickname. All because her name is India? Is she Hindu? If not, that seemed odd to me. Also, I hope her sister Ivy is locked up somewhere so that she can't harm anyone because the girl sounds like a psychopath.
Anyhoo, the next book goes back to India's first D/s relationship when she was 18 years old and her relationship with Hunter. I can't find enough care in the world to read it. I don't like her character to summon even a smidge of sympathy.
May 11, 2017
Ardmore finds a way
This story had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. We pick up with Tamsen Parker's cliff hanger from book 1 in the series. Something has happened to Cris and India is in a whirlwind after ending their contract not too long ago. *side eyes Parker* This book is their reconciliation and definitely India's freedom of her past.
Before I get into how much I love India and Cris, I must speak ok the supporting characters of this story, as there are quite a few. Rey!!!!!! Dear lord! We all need a Rey in our lives. Someone that will be there no matter what, will tell us the hard truths, and will even break out hearts to do what's best for that shattered heart. Gah!!! Reyyyyyyyyyyy!!! Add in Matty, Cooper, Gloria, and the office crew: Evans, Lucy, and dear hell even Jack and this book explodes around our bound pair. Love them all so much.
Intimate Geography too me in a zig zag line to an explosion of wow. From Cris' Recovery to a shocking discovery towards the end, I am still in awe of Parker's writing. With her kink still blissfully told, weaving a way through this story, wrapping it tighter around my heart, I am eager to read more of their story and that of those around me. But what pleases me the most is India Burke's emotional growth. This woman beat back the pain and shined so bright that I had to wear shades.
This story had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. We pick up with Tamsen Parker's cliff hanger from book 1 in the series. Something has happened to Cris and India is in a whirlwind after ending their contract not too long ago. *side eyes Parker* This book is their reconciliation and definitely India's freedom of her past.
Before I get into how much I love India and Cris, I must speak ok the supporting characters of this story, as there are quite a few. Rey!!!!!! Dear lord! We all need a Rey in our lives. Someone that will be there no matter what, will tell us the hard truths, and will even break out hearts to do what's best for that shattered heart. Gah!!! Reyyyyyyyyyyy!!! Add in Matty, Cooper, Gloria, and the office crew: Evans, Lucy, and dear hell even Jack and this book explodes around our bound pair. Love them all so much.
Intimate Geography too me in a zig zag line to an explosion of wow. From Cris' Recovery to a shocking discovery towards the end, I am still in awe of Parker's writing. With her kink still blissfully told, weaving a way through this story, wrapping it tighter around my heart, I am eager to read more of their story and that of those around me. But what pleases me the most is India Burke's emotional growth. This woman beat back the pain and shined so bright that I had to wear shades.
July 17, 2015
4.5 Stars
Warning: Intimate is the second book in Cris and India's story, and should be read after reading Personal Geography as this book picks up where that book ended.
If you were a fan of the intense, while still tender relationship between Cris and India in the first book, you'll love the even more in this second part. I loved the tenderness that we were able to see between in the first part of this series, and the tenderness only continues as India begins to slowly open up to Cris.
While we were given some of the back story that has haunted India's past, this story really brings those faults to the forefront. And as India struggles with her feelings, Cris is there and just as patient as always. India really evolves in this book into a more well rounded woman, though she still struggles to open up to those around her.
Many of the things that I love about this first book, were also present in this one. The fast paced storyline, the D/s scenes that were both intense and sweet, and the vulnerable yet strong heroine. The one thing that I wasn't as excited about how quickly a couple of the scenes evolved, ending too quickly and felt a bit incomplete.
*I received a copy of this book i exchange for my honest opinion*
Warning: Intimate is the second book in Cris and India's story, and should be read after reading Personal Geography as this book picks up where that book ended.
If you were a fan of the intense, while still tender relationship between Cris and India in the first book, you'll love the even more in this second part. I loved the tenderness that we were able to see between in the first part of this series, and the tenderness only continues as India begins to slowly open up to Cris.
While we were given some of the back story that has haunted India's past, this story really brings those faults to the forefront. And as India struggles with her feelings, Cris is there and just as patient as always. India really evolves in this book into a more well rounded woman, though she still struggles to open up to those around her.
Many of the things that I love about this first book, were also present in this one. The fast paced storyline, the D/s scenes that were both intense and sweet, and the vulnerable yet strong heroine. The one thing that I wasn't as excited about how quickly a couple of the scenes evolved, ending too quickly and felt a bit incomplete.
*I received a copy of this book i exchange for my honest opinion*
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