What do you think?
Rate this book
Puppy Love #1
Puppy Love
Matt is everything that Petey is not. He is self-confident and brave. Matt is tall and masculine and athletic. He is a natural-born leader. Puppy Love is their love story, their romance. It is both a coming-of-age and coming-out story, but sexual orientation is not the primary focus. Petey struggles with his identity both as a homosexual and as a submissive. What do you do when you love someone who is truly superior to yourself in every meaningful way? How do you feel, and what if these feelings are not what everyone tells you you're supposed to feel? We are taught that every individual is equal, but what if you know, through experience, that this is not the case? What if, in a society in which everyone is supposed to be a leader, you discover that your passion, your destiny, is to submit? In Puppy Love, Petey Drinkell discovers the true nature of power, its role in sexual relationships, and his own role in the power structure. Puppy Love is perhaps the world's first gay BDSM coming-of-age novel. This erotic epic is more than classic erotica; it also challenges the fundamental assumptions we make about human relationships and democracy.
534 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
29 people are currently reading
775 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Erno
71 books641 followersJeff Erno currently lives in southern Michigan. He holds a bachelor's degree in business management and human resources. Jeff began writing stories in the late 1990's and initially posted them to a free online amateur website. The positive feedback he received from readers encouraged him to continue, and this eventually led to the publication of his first novel, Dumb Jock. Erno has subsequently published several other novels.
His greatest passion in life is writing, and he hopes to be able to continue sharing his work with readers worldwide.
His greatest passion in life is writing, and he hopes to be able to continue sharing his work with readers worldwide.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
May 13, 2017
I'm not sure where to start. When I read the description of this book I thought, M/M romance with teenage D/s relationship dynamic...sounds interesting. Having finished the book, I wish I had stopped reading a hell of a lot earlier and just moved on to another book.
I started out liking Matt. He seemed arrogant, yes, but also charismatic and funny and handsome. Petey's idolization of him from the very beginning was a bit overwhelming, but teenage "love" can be like that, right? Right. So I suspended disbelief and tried to just immerse myself in the story. When their D/s relationship began to develop, I had no problem with it. Petey was happy with it; Matt was happy with it...everything was fine and dandy. Even when Matt referred to Petey as a "fag" during their scenes, it didn't bother me at all because they both seemed to enjoy that kind of language in their play.
The book started to lose me with Matt's infidelity. I don't care if he's bisexual. I don't care if he has a super-high sex drive. I don't care if he's the dominant partner and responsible for making the decisions about how Petey and Matt will interact and behave in their everyday lives. I found Matt's infidelity deplorable!! It's not even that I have a problem with polyamorous/open/non-monogamous/label-free relationships. I say, if both partners want that type of relationship, who is someone else to decide what is right for the people in said relationship. What I have a problem with is Matt's insistence on sleeping around when he knows how devastated and devalued it makes Petey feel.
It was disgusting to read. Absolutely disgusting. If Matt wants to be in an open D/s relationship that allows him to step outside the primary relationship and not get grief from his partner, then he should take is "sexy, athletic, smart, uber-awesome" ass somewhere and find a partner who can handle that kind of thing. Petey going through the entire relationship on the verge of tears for half of the book saddened me immensely.
Another complaint I had was Matt and Alex's description of women with whom they were fucking. And I say fucking because there was nothing even remotely decent about what they were doing. I think the only female that was not referred to as a bitch was Petey's sister...and the author even tried to make her come across as a nagging, whiny pain in the ass.
I was also thoroughly annoyed by the way Petey treated Cameron at the end of the book. Imagine that you receive a phone call from someone who is practically a stranger and is crying hysterically. You agree to meet with him to be a shoulder to lean on. Now imagine getting screamed at by said person when you dare to suggest that perhaps he should evaluate his relationship because you think he deserves to be treated in such a way that he doesn't end up bawling on a street corner due to some incident involving said relationship. Would you be pissed at this obnoxious, psychotic, hysterical stranger? I sure as hell would be.
At the end of the day, I think I was actually bothered least by the actual D/s dynamic in Petey and Matt's relationship. What I found so frustrating was Matt's complete disregard for Petey's emotional health, and toward the end of the book, Petey's manic shitty personality.
I enjoy M/M + D/s books, but this is NOT something I would recommend to others. If you're looking for a good gay D/s book, I recommend Submission. The characters are grown men, but I don't think that that is what makes Submission better than Puppy Love. It shouldn't matter what age you are. If you're old enough to have a sexual relationship, you need to be mature enough to treat you partner with human decency.
I'll take a pass on the sequel.
I started out liking Matt. He seemed arrogant, yes, but also charismatic and funny and handsome. Petey's idolization of him from the very beginning was a bit overwhelming, but teenage "love" can be like that, right? Right. So I suspended disbelief and tried to just immerse myself in the story. When their D/s relationship began to develop, I had no problem with it. Petey was happy with it; Matt was happy with it...everything was fine and dandy. Even when Matt referred to Petey as a "fag" during their scenes, it didn't bother me at all because they both seemed to enjoy that kind of language in their play.
The book started to lose me with Matt's infidelity. I don't care if he's bisexual. I don't care if he has a super-high sex drive. I don't care if he's the dominant partner and responsible for making the decisions about how Petey and Matt will interact and behave in their everyday lives. I found Matt's infidelity deplorable!! It's not even that I have a problem with polyamorous/open/non-monogamous/label-free relationships. I say, if both partners want that type of relationship, who is someone else to decide what is right for the people in said relationship. What I have a problem with is Matt's insistence on sleeping around when he knows how devastated and devalued it makes Petey feel.
It was disgusting to read. Absolutely disgusting. If Matt wants to be in an open D/s relationship that allows him to step outside the primary relationship and not get grief from his partner, then he should take is "sexy, athletic, smart, uber-awesome" ass somewhere and find a partner who can handle that kind of thing. Petey going through the entire relationship on the verge of tears for half of the book saddened me immensely.
Another complaint I had was Matt and Alex's description of women with whom they were fucking. And I say fucking because there was nothing even remotely decent about what they were doing. I think the only female that was not referred to as a bitch was Petey's sister...and the author even tried to make her come across as a nagging, whiny pain in the ass.
I was also thoroughly annoyed by the way Petey treated Cameron at the end of the book. Imagine that you receive a phone call from someone who is practically a stranger and is crying hysterically. You agree to meet with him to be a shoulder to lean on. Now imagine getting screamed at by said person when you dare to suggest that perhaps he should evaluate his relationship because you think he deserves to be treated in such a way that he doesn't end up bawling on a street corner due to some incident involving said relationship. Would you be pissed at this obnoxious, psychotic, hysterical stranger? I sure as hell would be.
At the end of the day, I think I was actually bothered least by the actual D/s dynamic in Petey and Matt's relationship. What I found so frustrating was Matt's complete disregard for Petey's emotional health, and toward the end of the book, Petey's manic shitty personality.
I enjoy M/M + D/s books, but this is NOT something I would recommend to others. If you're looking for a good gay D/s book, I recommend Submission. The characters are grown men, but I don't think that that is what makes Submission better than Puppy Love. It shouldn't matter what age you are. If you're old enough to have a sexual relationship, you need to be mature enough to treat you partner with human decency.
I'll take a pass on the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2014
I was going to read this as an object lesson in why I shouldn't request books from lendle when I haven't read the synopsis or any reviews, but I have come to the conclusion that I don't hate myself quite that much. I would try to express how much I hated this story, the characters, and the lack of any real affection between them, but words fail me.
Petey is obsessed, almost fanatically so, with Matt who sort of talks him into this "relationship." Petey knows nothing of D/S, bondage, or even that he is in fact gay, but he just goes along with whatever Matt tells him to do because he should "trust" Matt. He knows Matt has a girlfriend, and doesn't expect monogamy because who is he to make any demands of his hero Matt, but he still has unprotected sex with Matt. He has no safe word. No limits. He just accepts everything Matt does to him, and everything Matt tells him as immutable law. Petey has no sense of self preservation, and almost no sense of self. His entire world is becoming Matt, and Matt's needs. He has no thoughts of himself, or of his sister, just Matt.
I tried, and I made it more than half way, but the kink (water sports really?) combined with characters that made me want to pull my hair out did me in. All the time I was reading this I kept reading Petey's voice in the 90's valley girl voice. He's supposed to be 19, but he reads like a stereotypical pre-teen girl all gushing and self pity, and it made this book even creepier to me. No thanks.
Petey is obsessed, almost fanatically so, with Matt who sort of talks him into this "relationship." Petey knows nothing of D/S, bondage, or even that he is in fact gay, but he just goes along with whatever Matt tells him to do because he should "trust" Matt. He knows Matt has a girlfriend, and doesn't expect monogamy because who is he to make any demands of his hero Matt, but he still has unprotected sex with Matt. He has no safe word. No limits. He just accepts everything Matt does to him, and everything Matt tells him as immutable law. Petey has no sense of self preservation, and almost no sense of self. His entire world is becoming Matt, and Matt's needs. He has no thoughts of himself, or of his sister, just Matt.
I tried, and I made it more than half way, but the kink (water sports really?) combined with characters that made me want to pull my hair out did me in. All the time I was reading this I kept reading Petey's voice in the 90's valley girl voice. He's supposed to be 19, but he reads like a stereotypical pre-teen girl all gushing and self pity, and it made this book even creepier to me. No thanks.
July 22, 2010
^^ THIS PUPPY IS NO BITCH!^^
What can I say that hasn’t been said before, this book will push your boundaries, leave you going “hmm” and the next second have you pissed as hell. I can say this is work of good writing, interesting characters and a storyline unlike any, I have had the privilege to read. I thought I would dislike this book and let me tell you how surprised I was that I actually loved it. The idea behind it I found original and that could be because of my interpretation. It was hilarious, sweet and down right exhausting at times; but you are never bored. A little over 500pages, I devoured it in one day.
Petey is small, Petey is weak and then Petey is bullied, Petey is rescued by someone he idolizes and possibly worships. The idol comes in the form of Matt Porter, he is the epitome of all that is man. He is beautiful, smart, athletic and rich. He is idolized by anyone he comes in contact with, he is awesomeness. With them both; you have the superior and the subordinate and it begins a relationship of a Dom and his submissive.
The plot is pretty much about two nineteen years old boys coming into their roles. They both recognized the roles that they will play in each other lives, and they both figure out how to progress from there. Petey knows he is supposed to be bowing at Matt’s feet, and Matt recognizes that its where Petey belongs. The road ahead isn’t easy and you recognize the immaturity in both of them. I came the conclusion that the immaturity was written on purpose because it leaves them room to grow, they are so very imperfect and its that’s imperfection that makes them genuine.
The narration is told through Petey’s POV and he is believable as a submissive character, he tends to be a bit on the annoying side at times, but his personality never wavers. His inner most thoughts are a true reflection of himself; he struggles with insecurities and he constantly questions the love of Matt. He never questions that he is supposed to be owned and I liked that. He knows he is property, accepts it and moves on from there. I felt there was a whole lot he need to be open about, but the author just never ventured down that road. Petey is believable as a character and also as a submissive.
Matt on the other hand is an asshole plain and simple, but you cant help but love him. Him as a Dom is like a big ego trip, he walks the walk of a man who rules and everyone around him takes notice. He rules with a firm hand but its also gentle, he knows exactly who he is and I just love it. He has swagger, he’s got style and he can be down right vicious. Matt owns his role and he is believable. There is the occasional mistake but his age makes up for that. Together they just work, I found myself finding the scenes with them together sexy sweet. A mixture of erotic, romantic and sometimes dirty. They were like two halves of a whole both able to give what the other needs and in then end creating a perfect balance in the relationship. Some of the scenes were a little out there, but I never got the feeling that it was for the purpose of shock value.
Overall a pretty out there read, some might say its sexual slavery or borderline abuse; but if you think that’s slavery obviously you have never taken a history class. For the purpose of abuse, doesn’t even fall in the same category. Petey wants to be owned, he needs to be owned and in the end every humiliation and order could have been stopped if that was what he wanted. I must warn you there is the exchange of the occasional bodily fluids (and I don‘t mean sperm), which I found disgusting the “only” set back for me. There was some spanking that I found hilarious, could be I am having a very perverse month, because this book was freaking funny.
So if you want a D/s story without all the whips, chains and leather then you might enjoy this one. If you dislike human ownership and someone telling another what to do and then calling it love, then you might wanna stay clear of this one. Then again I thought I would hate it, but I ended up loving it so sometimes one judgement can be off. The other characters in the book are pretty great in the background, but they fail to take the spotlight off of Matt and Petey. I am excited to see what Petey and Matt get up to in Puppy Love 2 because these two are purely entertainment.
What can I say that hasn’t been said before, this book will push your boundaries, leave you going “hmm” and the next second have you pissed as hell. I can say this is work of good writing, interesting characters and a storyline unlike any, I have had the privilege to read. I thought I would dislike this book and let me tell you how surprised I was that I actually loved it. The idea behind it I found original and that could be because of my interpretation. It was hilarious, sweet and down right exhausting at times; but you are never bored. A little over 500pages, I devoured it in one day.
Petey is small, Petey is weak and then Petey is bullied, Petey is rescued by someone he idolizes and possibly worships. The idol comes in the form of Matt Porter, he is the epitome of all that is man. He is beautiful, smart, athletic and rich. He is idolized by anyone he comes in contact with, he is awesomeness. With them both; you have the superior and the subordinate and it begins a relationship of a Dom and his submissive.
The plot is pretty much about two nineteen years old boys coming into their roles. They both recognized the roles that they will play in each other lives, and they both figure out how to progress from there. Petey knows he is supposed to be bowing at Matt’s feet, and Matt recognizes that its where Petey belongs. The road ahead isn’t easy and you recognize the immaturity in both of them. I came the conclusion that the immaturity was written on purpose because it leaves them room to grow, they are so very imperfect and its that’s imperfection that makes them genuine.
The narration is told through Petey’s POV and he is believable as a submissive character, he tends to be a bit on the annoying side at times, but his personality never wavers. His inner most thoughts are a true reflection of himself; he struggles with insecurities and he constantly questions the love of Matt. He never questions that he is supposed to be owned and I liked that. He knows he is property, accepts it and moves on from there. I felt there was a whole lot he need to be open about, but the author just never ventured down that road. Petey is believable as a character and also as a submissive.
Matt on the other hand is an asshole plain and simple, but you cant help but love him. Him as a Dom is like a big ego trip, he walks the walk of a man who rules and everyone around him takes notice. He rules with a firm hand but its also gentle, he knows exactly who he is and I just love it. He has swagger, he’s got style and he can be down right vicious. Matt owns his role and he is believable. There is the occasional mistake but his age makes up for that. Together they just work, I found myself finding the scenes with them together sexy sweet. A mixture of erotic, romantic and sometimes dirty. They were like two halves of a whole both able to give what the other needs and in then end creating a perfect balance in the relationship. Some of the scenes were a little out there, but I never got the feeling that it was for the purpose of shock value.
Overall a pretty out there read, some might say its sexual slavery or borderline abuse; but if you think that’s slavery obviously you have never taken a history class. For the purpose of abuse, doesn’t even fall in the same category. Petey wants to be owned, he needs to be owned and in the end every humiliation and order could have been stopped if that was what he wanted. I must warn you there is the exchange of the occasional bodily fluids (and I don‘t mean sperm), which I found disgusting the “only” set back for me. There was some spanking that I found hilarious, could be I am having a very perverse month, because this book was freaking funny.
So if you want a D/s story without all the whips, chains and leather then you might enjoy this one. If you dislike human ownership and someone telling another what to do and then calling it love, then you might wanna stay clear of this one. Then again I thought I would hate it, but I ended up loving it so sometimes one judgement can be off. The other characters in the book are pretty great in the background, but they fail to take the spotlight off of Matt and Petey. I am excited to see what Petey and Matt get up to in Puppy Love 2 because these two are purely entertainment.
October 10, 2013
The blurb really annoys me. First off, there's rhetorical question tackiness. Second off, it comes off as too "this is novel and revolutionary! This challenges social constructs and pushes you to question what you've always thought of as set in stone! This will blow your mind!"
Please. Shut up.
Comments I made while reading:
O_o
This one's weird cuz it seems like it's heavily implying that all gay guys are kinky. They have to, by rule, be kinky. There is no such thing as a vanilla gay guy. Gay and kinky are synonymous. The gays are the subs and the bi's are the Doms. Always. Because liking pussy means they're manlier and jock-y-er and in general more toppy.
I was seriously craving some breaking of this "status quo."
It's also got piss play, which is, to say the least, nmk.
post-read (sort of) edit:
O_O
Oh, yeah. It blew my mind. In a really bad, really squicky, really, really creepy way.
This book really scares me. Petey seems the epitome of codependence, and really young and impressionable. And Matt seems like a self-centered, abusive jerk-ass. Drew and Alex kind of worried me at first, but then I think they actually have something that works. Maybe it seems this way because Drew doesn't read like a 14 year old.
It worries me, though, because Drew seems to assume that Petey is of the same mental maturity as he (he's 28, I think) when the narration seems to make Petey really, really young. D: STAHP, DREW. STAHP. YOU'RE DISSEMINATING FAULTY INFORMATION TO THE WRONG AUDIENCE.
DNF @ ~50%
...more or less...
And another thing...
How the fuck does democracy factor into this? Stop, author. Just stop. You're trying too hard to make your niche genre work more generally appealing/applicable. It ain't gonna work. That's not how society works.
Admittedly, the characterization squicked me out since I felt like I was reading child porn, so maybe there's some deep, subliminal social criticism here about how humans should stop fighting for equality and just accept that some people are created better. Some people are born to dominate and some are born to be dominated and objectified and mentally broken down.
I'm sorry, but I can't find anything uplifting about Petey's experiences. Maybe that comes later on and there's some kind of magical epiphany moment all around, but unless I know for sure it's coming, I don't think I can force myself to keep reading.
From the blurb:
"In Puppy Love, Petey Drinkell discovers the true nature of power," (subs must allow Doms to take over all aspects of their lives. Their silence is their tacit informed consent.)
"its role in sexual relationships," (there is no such thing as power exchange. Power is distributed only to those who are "superior." He is not one of the superior. The Dom is allowed to be as much of an inconsiderate jackass as he wants because it is in his rights as a superior being.)
"and his own role in the power structure." (as the mindless slave. No, not even a slave. He's just a "cum-hole." All the time. That's all he is. Pretty literally. [Well, I suppose he's also Matt's punching bag and whipping boy for when he's feeling bored and sadistic...])
"Puppy Love is perhaps the world's first gay BDSM coming-of-age novel." (the same way What Worse Place Can I Beg in Your Love? is definitely a "BDSM coming-of-age novel." For those who can no longer distinguish my thick sarcasm from what I actually mean, I'm being sarcastic. What Worse Place is definitely NOT SSC. The narrator is so unreliable he gives Poe's narrator's a run for their money.)
*shudders
I feel like I need to purge myself.
Please. Shut up.
Comments I made while reading:
O_o
This one's weird cuz it seems like it's heavily implying that all gay guys are kinky. They have to, by rule, be kinky. There is no such thing as a vanilla gay guy. Gay and kinky are synonymous. The gays are the subs and the bi's are the Doms. Always. Because liking pussy means they're manlier and jock-y-er and in general more toppy.
I was seriously craving some breaking of this "status quo."
It's also got piss play, which is, to say the least, nmk.
post-read (sort of) edit:
O_O
Oh, yeah. It blew my mind. In a really bad, really squicky, really, really creepy way.
This book really scares me. Petey seems the epitome of codependence, and really young and impressionable. And Matt seems like a self-centered, abusive jerk-ass. Drew and Alex kind of worried me at first, but then I think they actually have something that works. Maybe it seems this way because Drew doesn't read like a 14 year old.
It worries me, though, because Drew seems to assume that Petey is of the same mental maturity as he (he's 28, I think) when the narration seems to make Petey really, really young. D: STAHP, DREW. STAHP. YOU'RE DISSEMINATING FAULTY INFORMATION TO THE WRONG AUDIENCE.
DNF @ ~50%
...more or less...
And another thing...
How the fuck does democracy factor into this? Stop, author. Just stop. You're trying too hard to make your niche genre work more generally appealing/applicable. It ain't gonna work. That's not how society works.
Admittedly, the characterization squicked me out since I felt like I was reading child porn, so maybe there's some deep, subliminal social criticism here about how humans should stop fighting for equality and just accept that some people are created better. Some people are born to dominate and some are born to be dominated and objectified and mentally broken down.
I'm sorry, but I can't find anything uplifting about Petey's experiences. Maybe that comes later on and there's some kind of magical epiphany moment all around, but unless I know for sure it's coming, I don't think I can force myself to keep reading.
From the blurb:
"In Puppy Love, Petey Drinkell discovers the true nature of power," (subs must allow Doms to take over all aspects of their lives. Their silence is their tacit informed consent.)
"its role in sexual relationships," (there is no such thing as power exchange. Power is distributed only to those who are "superior." He is not one of the superior. The Dom is allowed to be as much of an inconsiderate jackass as he wants because it is in his rights as a superior being.)
"and his own role in the power structure." (as the mindless slave. No, not even a slave. He's just a "cum-hole." All the time. That's all he is. Pretty literally. [Well, I suppose he's also Matt's punching bag and whipping boy for when he's feeling bored and sadistic...])
"Puppy Love is perhaps the world's first gay BDSM coming-of-age novel." (the same way What Worse Place Can I Beg in Your Love? is definitely a "BDSM coming-of-age novel." For those who can no longer distinguish my thick sarcasm from what I actually mean, I'm being sarcastic. What Worse Place is definitely NOT SSC. The narrator is so unreliable he gives Poe's narrator's a run for their money.)
*shudders
I feel like I need to purge myself.
January 17, 2013
OMG! This book is truly amazing. I felt all along the novel as if I'd be the one who wrote this story so much the author sees the D/s like me.
Each time Petey falls happily into Matt's arms, we are in agreement with him, and whenever he feels hurt, we feel bad for him.
However, there is something with which I disagree. I do not think a sub is inferior to a Dom. He may place himself in a position of inferiority, but he is not inferior. He is just different.
And I do not believe that we should be weak to be a sub. Rather, it takes fortitude to surrender totally to the will of another person.
Each time Petey falls happily into Matt's arms, we are in agreement with him, and whenever he feels hurt, we feel bad for him.
The power he held over me actually stemmed from me, though, not from him. My willingness to serve was what make him powerful.
This devotion to him, for lack of a better word, was what fueled the power he held over me. It was so totally voluntary and yet, at the same time, automatic. It was a paradox, for I could not have ceased to submit to him anymore that I could have cease to breathe, yet I also knew that my submission was my one single gift to him.
[...] for never before had I felt so complete, so satisfied, so content, as when I was bathing in the security of his control and his guidance.
However, there is something with which I disagree. I do not think a sub is inferior to a Dom. He may place himself in a position of inferiority, but he is not inferior. He is just different.
And I do not believe that we should be weak to be a sub. Rather, it takes fortitude to surrender totally to the will of another person.
dnf
December 27, 2012I made it through about chapter 4 in this book so I didn't get to what a lot of people's reviews are annoyed about (cheating, drinking urine, etc). However, my main complaint is that these MCs were just too young. I know that the author says they are 19 years old but the narrative voice just doesn't play that out. It felt like I was in the head of a 14 or 15 year old and I was too squicked to keep reading what felt like an underaged person thinking about and having sex. I was also not a fan of their relationship dynamic (Petey being so convinced of Matt's utter superiority and his own general crappiness) but I think this stems from them being too young. I don't think I read enough of this book to give it a starred rating. Many people have liked it so you may too but it was not my cuppa.
January 20, 2010
I got this book knowing that there was some BDSM in it, but I really like stories about gay guys my age. One of my favorite series is Mark Roeder's gay youth chronicles. I had to struggle to get through this book. If this is what a bondage relationship is like then I don't want to read about it. I think its because the word was in the title but all I could think of was a puppy being beaten by a bully. And because the puppy wants attention really badly it is mistaken for love. If I could write this review without giving it any stars I would.
September 6, 2016
What the heck was that? Yes, I gave it 4 stars because I definitely more than liked it. Although I have to admit it hurts too.
What I liked :
- My goodness, it was intense! Just like other BDSM lifestyle would be like. Mmmhhmmm...
- Understanding a lil bit better about TPE.
- I loved how thoughtful Petey was. Apart from everything I don't like from Matt, he does played a big role for how Petey found himself. It's really awesome to see that. I loved Petey. <3
What I liked :
- My goodness, it was intense! Just like other BDSM lifestyle would be like. Mmmhhmmm...
- Understanding a lil bit better about TPE.
- I loved how thoughtful Petey was. Apart from everything I don't like from Matt, he does played a big role for how Petey found himself. It's really awesome to see that. I loved Petey. <3
January 21, 2012
I'm not entirely convinced that this book wasn't written by a teenage girl. It's that clumsy. Everything just felt horribly contrived. Lack of believable dialogue aside, the D/s element struck me as being a bit ridiculous given that both protagonists are basically teenagers and both have the personalities of sea anemones. Except that Petey is a sea anemone with Dependent personality disorder and Matt is just an asshole. The characters just weren't believable as real people. And I have to admit that although I find relationship dynamics super interesting and I like kink, I'm kind of horrified by the treating of people like pets. But I guess some people are into that? But strangely, I kinda have to read the next book to see where it goes.
Edit: I take it back. I can't read the rest of this. Just the thought makes me queasy.
Edit: I take it back. I can't read the rest of this. Just the thought makes me queasy.
September 15, 2010
This is one of those books that you either love or hate and the line between the two is very, very thin. I was uncomfortable while reading parts of it, but realistically I shouldn't have been. Petey is the one living through every situation and he willingly accepts it. In the end it all comes to the wishes of the individual.
A friend wanted to know what i thought about Matt. Well, I tried (as I read a few negative reviews) to think of him as a cheating bad guy, but I just can't. In every single situation between him and Petey he was understanding, supportive and loving. He always gave Petey a chance, a praise and the punishment when it was deserved. That sleeping around was never really explained, other than from Petey's crying point of view and I just don't see that as objective.
Also, that is one of the things that annoyed me. Petey had a problem with other women, but he never really talked to Matt about it. Except when Matt gave him the lecture about that call, but that was in the end about something else. My point is, that Petey cries through out the book abut his feelings and has so many doubts and insecurities it's sometimes painful to read. But the one person he should be talking about it to, he doesn't. For me it seemed too close to a lie or disobedience.
I found it funny that Matt is referred to as the straight guy lol And even though the name calling really pops out while reading, I think it's mainly that way because of the word itself. If it was any other word in question many people wouldn't even notice it.
The book really is intense, but like someone else said before, it has something that a lot of other books lack - it's realistic. I gave it four stars because the way the book was written bothered me and I couldn't get into it sometimes. The way Matt behaves gives you an impression that he is much older than he is, but once he speaks you have a feeling like he's really immature. And the other reason is the previously mentioned Petey's behavior.
I can't say that I recommend this book. I liked it, but then again I like a lot of things that are out of the norm. Maybe the best advice would be to be prepared to be pushed over your limits, and if you are squeamish or sensitive, it might be best if you skip it.
A friend wanted to know what i thought about Matt. Well, I tried (as I read a few negative reviews) to think of him as a cheating bad guy, but I just can't. In every single situation between him and Petey he was understanding, supportive and loving. He always gave Petey a chance, a praise and the punishment when it was deserved. That sleeping around was never really explained, other than from Petey's crying point of view and I just don't see that as objective.
Also, that is one of the things that annoyed me. Petey had a problem with other women, but he never really talked to Matt about it. Except when Matt gave him the lecture about that call, but that was in the end about something else. My point is, that Petey cries through out the book abut his feelings and has so many doubts and insecurities it's sometimes painful to read. But the one person he should be talking about it to, he doesn't. For me it seemed too close to a lie or disobedience.
I found it funny that Matt is referred to as the straight guy lol And even though the name calling really pops out while reading, I think it's mainly that way because of the word itself. If it was any other word in question many people wouldn't even notice it.
The book really is intense, but like someone else said before, it has something that a lot of other books lack - it's realistic. I gave it four stars because the way the book was written bothered me and I couldn't get into it sometimes. The way Matt behaves gives you an impression that he is much older than he is, but once he speaks you have a feeling like he's really immature. And the other reason is the previously mentioned Petey's behavior.
I can't say that I recommend this book. I liked it, but then again I like a lot of things that are out of the norm. Maybe the best advice would be to be prepared to be pushed over your limits, and if you are squeamish or sensitive, it might be best if you skip it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2010
It's pretty rare that I rate a book highly because of how much it drives me nutty. I swear I hate as many things about Puppy Love as I love about it. I suspect I don't have as many issues with Petey's submission as most do; though I'd agree with those that think he's being unduely induced through emotional manipulation. And I'm saying that as a switch who has lived and experienced scenes on both sides of the slash (D/s). More the than urophagia (which squicks me out! Eww ) it was Matt and Alex's representation of bisexuals, of Doms, and the constant objectifying and misogynistic references toward women that drove me FREAKING insane. I loved living inside Petey's introspections though, however overly emotional, contradictory, self deprecating and self flagellating they were. Off to buy book 2. I swear I could talk about this book for days! Thought Provoking Read.
May 19, 2010
This is an interesting, quite long book that delves into kinks, desires, and understanding yourself. The characters are simultaneously interesting, likable, and book throwing-ly frustrating. They never act the way you’ll want them to act but they stay very true to their characters. Some of the scenes tend to be repetitive and I don’t think the book needs to be anywhere near as long as it is, but clearly all of this is leading somewhere. The characters are very immature, unaware, and commit just about every classic relationship sin there is. To top it off they don’t really learn in the space of the book – even 500+ pages – but I have faith they’ll mature in future sequels. Nonetheless, this is a really interesting look at kink from two young, inexperienced kids who just try to do what comes naturally.
The story is told in first person from Petey’s perspective. It starts off with Petey being gay bashed by two fellow students and jock Matt stepping in to stop it from happening. Right away Petey develops serious hero worship for Matt that never goes away. Over the course of the book Petey gets involved in a BDSM relationship with Matt, exploring mutual kinks and relishing his role as “pup” to Matt. Their story covers lots of sex, kinks, emotion, and drama as they struggle to find the right balance with two inexperienced, very different young men just discovering their sexuality.
Petey is constantly described as small, tiny, and little. Part of this is how Petey sees himself. He thinks he is small, insignificant, and inferior. He’s very young and immature despite having lost his parents early and has no self confidence, self awareness, and very little emotional maturity. He cries constantly. He cries if he’s happy, sad, excited, nervous, upset, overwhelmed, and if he looks sideways at the wrong moment. I didn’t hate all his crying because it’s obvious that it’s how he expresses his emotions. I also tended to zone out a little when Petey repetitively whines and cries about the same issues over and over without coming to any resolution. I would hope in future books he’s able to resolve the issues instead of telling himself to get over it and move on, which he does only for the moment. Petey is incredibly sensitive and easily overwhelmed so he’s also likely to taper off the crying once he gains a little maturity and experience. He has no self confidence and this can be frustrating. He constantly blames himself first and always, regardless of what those around him try to say. Part of my frustration with Petey is that he doesn’t grow during the course of this book. He remains with little to no self confidence and still can’t see the person Matt is. Petey can only see the hero he imagines which doesn’t negate his love but does color it slightly.
While Petey is immature and in the throes of some serious hero worship, Matt isn’t much better. I didn’t mind Matt though as he’s clearly spoiled, arrogant, and immature himself. He loves Petey but has no idea what that means. His wealthy family has created an air of entitlement around Matt that Petey’s hero worship reinforces. Matt absolutely uses Petey, with Petey’s consent since the later isn’t aware enough to understand, but Matt doesn’t do this maliciously or with ill intent. He’s simply used to doing what he wants, when he wants with no consequences. He’s very smart though and truly cares about Petey so I imagine when he starts to grow up; he’ll recognize his behavior and learn from it. Even though Matt is an ass, I didn’t mind since I think he’ll mature a lot sooner than Petey will. Plus their relationship has all the hallmarks of young, first love with all the mistakes that are likely to happen.
Matt’s arrogance is reinforced with the supporting characters of Drew and Alex. Matt needs a mentor in the BDSM scene since he’s not all knowing and still has a lot of learn. Initially Alex fills this role but later seems to taper off with an odd and disconcerting scene where Matt pseudo tops Alex for some reason. Similarly Drew is meant to mentor Petey but Drew only reinforces that Matt’s selfish behavior is ok and Petey needs to get used to it. While the support Alex and Drew offer Matt and Petey is nice, showing them that the two are normal and can have a relationship that works for them, neither Alex nor Drew offer any opposing opinion. Neither points out destructive or unhealthy behavior but simply says everything is alright. Drew is an important friend to Petey and a good support but I got frustrated with Drew’s ignorance and insistence that everything is ok and Petey just needs to move on.
Besides the characters, which can be frustrating but true to them, the story delves into BDSM with some serious kinks. Not all of these will be to everyone’s taste but they’re handled pretty well without embellishment or shock factor. There are several golden shower scenes and this is a kink between Petey and Matt. Sometimes after reading I gargled with mouthwash but that’s purely reader preference and thought the scenes were handled well. I wish the story had been tighter edited, eliminating some of the repetitive mental dialogues since they didn’t seem to offer much either to Petey or the reader. They reinforce Petey’s mindset constantly but after that they felt gratuitous. Overall this is an interesting story that those who like BDSM may enjoy. I think I’ll read the sequel because I want to see how both men mature together and separately.
The story is told in first person from Petey’s perspective. It starts off with Petey being gay bashed by two fellow students and jock Matt stepping in to stop it from happening. Right away Petey develops serious hero worship for Matt that never goes away. Over the course of the book Petey gets involved in a BDSM relationship with Matt, exploring mutual kinks and relishing his role as “pup” to Matt. Their story covers lots of sex, kinks, emotion, and drama as they struggle to find the right balance with two inexperienced, very different young men just discovering their sexuality.
Petey is constantly described as small, tiny, and little. Part of this is how Petey sees himself. He thinks he is small, insignificant, and inferior. He’s very young and immature despite having lost his parents early and has no self confidence, self awareness, and very little emotional maturity. He cries constantly. He cries if he’s happy, sad, excited, nervous, upset, overwhelmed, and if he looks sideways at the wrong moment. I didn’t hate all his crying because it’s obvious that it’s how he expresses his emotions. I also tended to zone out a little when Petey repetitively whines and cries about the same issues over and over without coming to any resolution. I would hope in future books he’s able to resolve the issues instead of telling himself to get over it and move on, which he does only for the moment. Petey is incredibly sensitive and easily overwhelmed so he’s also likely to taper off the crying once he gains a little maturity and experience. He has no self confidence and this can be frustrating. He constantly blames himself first and always, regardless of what those around him try to say. Part of my frustration with Petey is that he doesn’t grow during the course of this book. He remains with little to no self confidence and still can’t see the person Matt is. Petey can only see the hero he imagines which doesn’t negate his love but does color it slightly.
While Petey is immature and in the throes of some serious hero worship, Matt isn’t much better. I didn’t mind Matt though as he’s clearly spoiled, arrogant, and immature himself. He loves Petey but has no idea what that means. His wealthy family has created an air of entitlement around Matt that Petey’s hero worship reinforces. Matt absolutely uses Petey, with Petey’s consent since the later isn’t aware enough to understand, but Matt doesn’t do this maliciously or with ill intent. He’s simply used to doing what he wants, when he wants with no consequences. He’s very smart though and truly cares about Petey so I imagine when he starts to grow up; he’ll recognize his behavior and learn from it. Even though Matt is an ass, I didn’t mind since I think he’ll mature a lot sooner than Petey will. Plus their relationship has all the hallmarks of young, first love with all the mistakes that are likely to happen.
Matt’s arrogance is reinforced with the supporting characters of Drew and Alex. Matt needs a mentor in the BDSM scene since he’s not all knowing and still has a lot of learn. Initially Alex fills this role but later seems to taper off with an odd and disconcerting scene where Matt pseudo tops Alex for some reason. Similarly Drew is meant to mentor Petey but Drew only reinforces that Matt’s selfish behavior is ok and Petey needs to get used to it. While the support Alex and Drew offer Matt and Petey is nice, showing them that the two are normal and can have a relationship that works for them, neither Alex nor Drew offer any opposing opinion. Neither points out destructive or unhealthy behavior but simply says everything is alright. Drew is an important friend to Petey and a good support but I got frustrated with Drew’s ignorance and insistence that everything is ok and Petey just needs to move on.
Besides the characters, which can be frustrating but true to them, the story delves into BDSM with some serious kinks. Not all of these will be to everyone’s taste but they’re handled pretty well without embellishment or shock factor. There are several golden shower scenes and this is a kink between Petey and Matt. Sometimes after reading I gargled with mouthwash but that’s purely reader preference and thought the scenes were handled well. I wish the story had been tighter edited, eliminating some of the repetitive mental dialogues since they didn’t seem to offer much either to Petey or the reader. They reinforce Petey’s mindset constantly but after that they felt gratuitous. Overall this is an interesting story that those who like BDSM may enjoy. I think I’ll read the sequel because I want to see how both men mature together and separately.
December 7, 2012
What caused me to give this story just two stars?
It wasn't the hardcore kink or the fact the MCs were 19 yrs. old and in a BDSM relationship which developed, more or less, by trial and error. Though this last really gave me a stomach ache because, goodness gracious! How much trouble could they get into by doing something wrong, like the episode with the chastity device? Thankfully, their BDSM was mostly based on head games, very little physical stuff. Still could cause a lot of damage, but at least there would be no important appendages swelling, rotting and/or falling off.
It wasn't Petey's constant crying and Matt's arrogance and all-around assholish-ness. (Yes, I know, it's a made-up word. Work with me here.) This had me rolling my eyes to heaven for patience several times, but it wasn't a deal breaker. They are teenagers, what can you expect?
It wasn't the "infidelities" by one of the MCs or the suffering it caused the other MC. It's all a balance, really. Petey could have put the relationship on the line at any time, by requesting monogamy from Matt. If Matt were not willing to lose his pup, he would agree to being faithful, as a true sign of respect and love for his sub. If not, then they could each go their own way and that's that. End of story, right?
Wrong.
Because this is precisely my real problem with this story: There was no love between the MCs, period. In Petey's case, it was just a case of a crush turned into fanatical worship. He is obsessed with Matt, treats him like a god, and is absolutely blind to his faults. Matt, on the other hand, is crazy like a fox. He is simply doing the best he can to maintain a win-win situation for himself: Petey at his beck and call, ready and willing for anything at anytime, while playing the field with women. He's got it all, what's not to like?
The fact these guys don't really love each other, they just think they do, dawned on me when I read this passage. Petey is thinking to himself how he knows Matt loves him: "He'd showered me with presents, bought me new clothing, a cell phone, a fuckin' Caribbean cruise. Just the evening before, he'd taken me with him to his gym, and we'd discussed our future together.".
All the reasons Petey could give himself to justify Matt's love were bought with money, money Matt had to spare, without ever having had to lift a finger for it. The cell phone? A sort of 911 and booty call aid, that's all. The cruise? They were going together. The gym tour, the future? Whose future? Matt told Petey what Matt was going to do, that's it. Where's the "future together" in that?
If Matt and Petey don't love each other, then an HEA (or even HFN) is really not possible. And that IS the one thing I need in my romance.
Still, even though I really didn't go beyond "okay" with this one, I'll probably go ahead and read the next one. All my GR friends say it gets better. I'll trust them on it, but not immediately. I need to read something else to "clean my palate" of these two immature, spoiled brats.
It wasn't the hardcore kink or the fact the MCs were 19 yrs. old and in a BDSM relationship which developed, more or less, by trial and error. Though this last really gave me a stomach ache because, goodness gracious! How much trouble could they get into by doing something wrong, like the episode with the chastity device? Thankfully, their BDSM was mostly based on head games, very little physical stuff. Still could cause a lot of damage, but at least there would be no important appendages swelling, rotting and/or falling off.
It wasn't Petey's constant crying and Matt's arrogance and all-around assholish-ness. (Yes, I know, it's a made-up word. Work with me here.) This had me rolling my eyes to heaven for patience several times, but it wasn't a deal breaker. They are teenagers, what can you expect?
It wasn't the "infidelities" by one of the MCs or the suffering it caused the other MC. It's all a balance, really. Petey could have put the relationship on the line at any time, by requesting monogamy from Matt. If Matt were not willing to lose his pup, he would agree to being faithful, as a true sign of respect and love for his sub. If not, then they could each go their own way and that's that. End of story, right?
Wrong.
Because this is precisely my real problem with this story: There was no love between the MCs, period. In Petey's case, it was just a case of a crush turned into fanatical worship. He is obsessed with Matt, treats him like a god, and is absolutely blind to his faults. Matt, on the other hand, is crazy like a fox. He is simply doing the best he can to maintain a win-win situation for himself: Petey at his beck and call, ready and willing for anything at anytime, while playing the field with women. He's got it all, what's not to like?
The fact these guys don't really love each other, they just think they do, dawned on me when I read this passage. Petey is thinking to himself how he knows Matt loves him: "He'd showered me with presents, bought me new clothing, a cell phone, a fuckin' Caribbean cruise. Just the evening before, he'd taken me with him to his gym, and we'd discussed our future together.".
All the reasons Petey could give himself to justify Matt's love were bought with money, money Matt had to spare, without ever having had to lift a finger for it. The cell phone? A sort of 911 and booty call aid, that's all. The cruise? They were going together. The gym tour, the future? Whose future? Matt told Petey what Matt was going to do, that's it. Where's the "future together" in that?
If Matt and Petey don't love each other, then an HEA (or even HFN) is really not possible. And that IS the one thing I need in my romance.
Still, even though I really didn't go beyond "okay" with this one, I'll probably go ahead and read the next one. All my GR friends say it gets better. I'll trust them on it, but not immediately. I need to read something else to "clean my palate" of these two immature, spoiled brats.
February 16, 2010
Gotta say at the outset that I didn't finish this book. I'm shocked that I made it as far as a I did. I also don't usually write reviews at any of the sites I belong to, but I felt compelled to write one here.
This book reinforces for me exactly what I've always thought of people who are into this type of relationship. The dom in the relationship is a bully who needs a weak person to take advantage of and he sub is an insecure individual with very low self-esteem who mistakes abuse for love.
I should have stopped reading at the part where Matt makes Petey drink his urine for a whole day, but I trudged on. I wish I hadn't. It's a sad and repulsive book.
If you enjoy reading stories of bigger people abusing and taking advantage of little people then this is your book. If you respect individuals then you'll probably be as repulsed as I was.
I've read the other reviews here and it's clear that there are people who are into this type of mistreatment of other humans. I've also read the blog entry by the author. His entry only reinforces how this book is a complete fail. If you actually have to followup your novel with an explanation of a character then obviously you didn't properly create the character in the book.
I wish I had never purchased this book.
This book reinforces for me exactly what I've always thought of people who are into this type of relationship. The dom in the relationship is a bully who needs a weak person to take advantage of and he sub is an insecure individual with very low self-esteem who mistakes abuse for love.
I should have stopped reading at the part where Matt makes Petey drink his urine for a whole day, but I trudged on. I wish I hadn't. It's a sad and repulsive book.
If you enjoy reading stories of bigger people abusing and taking advantage of little people then this is your book. If you respect individuals then you'll probably be as repulsed as I was.
I've read the other reviews here and it's clear that there are people who are into this type of mistreatment of other humans. I've also read the blog entry by the author. His entry only reinforces how this book is a complete fail. If you actually have to followup your novel with an explanation of a character then obviously you didn't properly create the character in the book.
I wish I had never purchased this book.
January 17, 2013
Thoughtful and introspective view of a young man's discovery of what he wants and the struggles he goes through accepting it himself and others' reactions. Petey recognizes his submissiveness at a young age and has the bravery to act upon it. Whether or not Matt is perfect is irrelevant, Petey believes he's perfect for him. And while some of the kinks are not my own Petey and Matt play through them.
All the secondary characters are there to expressive viewpoints to "argue" the issue of D/s. But I think one of the most interesting points that Petey comes to understand is that liberal viewpoints aren't truly liberal if they mandate a stance on a subject. I agree with Leah's comment about things that drove her nuts: representations of bisexuality and women.
This is not a fast read; it is paced to reflect Petey's acceptance and understanding as his relationship with Matt evolves. It is not salacious, but it made me think.
All the secondary characters are there to expressive viewpoints to "argue" the issue of D/s. But I think one of the most interesting points that Petey comes to understand is that liberal viewpoints aren't truly liberal if they mandate a stance on a subject. I agree with Leah's comment about things that drove her nuts: representations of bisexuality and women.
This is not a fast read; it is paced to reflect Petey's acceptance and understanding as his relationship with Matt evolves. It is not salacious, but it made me think.
October 11, 2011
I usually love BDSM stories, it's actually one of my favorite genres. So why did I dislike this book so much? It was a combination of dislikeable characters ( I don't like cheaters and no matter how you spin it Matt is a cheater and pretty much a jackass most of the time), sexual acts that I find degrading and disgusting (I do not find drinking someone's urine sexy.)
I kept hoping that the book would get better as many of my GR friends seem to love this book. Unfortunately I just couldn't and there is 8.00 and many hours as I plugged through this book praying I would find what it was that made the book so magical to others.
I kept hoping that the book would get better as many of my GR friends seem to love this book. Unfortunately I just couldn't and there is 8.00 and many hours as I plugged through this book praying I would find what it was that made the book so magical to others.
September 12, 2011
WOW!!! I was really left questioning so much about myself and my thought process's after reading this. Jeff has written quite an emotional book on a topic that one doesn't attach emotions to - well for me at least.
This series is a definite winner for me!!
The two lead characters are incredibly well developed through out the story. With some very well chosen descriptive/visualised scenes played out. I found myself being both frustrated and hopeful as the story grew, with some very confronting issues (again for me).
I have to add some criticism to explain the reason it didn't get 5 stars. I felt that this book, along with the following two books, was jammed together from a whole series of short stories. I found this to be the only real detraction. Basically you will finish a section of the story and then it seems to be a brief run down of the previous part of the story. In TV terms it would be the voice over at the start saying "In last weeks episode".. I've been trying to think of anything else in the story/writing that I found annoying/off putting but honestly can't think of anything that distracted me from the story or characters other than this issue... and it was REALLY frustrating a couple of times - hence the loss of a star.
**** Edit ****
Ok, so I've just come from Jeff's blog, and this is how the story goes, originally the story started off as a serial.. which is why I am feeling like it's a string of episodes.. I've added this here so that people will know just why it's like it is.
**** end Edit ****
Usually in this sort of genre I take of a star or two for the pwp factor (porn with out plot).. In this case, not only were the explicit scenes required, but they were so well written I didn't have any problems imagining what was happening. I may have got squeamish a couple of times but I certainly didn't gloss over them like I normally do.
I decided to track down another story by Jeff after reading his short story Invisible. Invisible is a short story that actually grabbed me - (not being a fan of short stories) for it's highly descriptive story. I was NOT disappointed one iota by just how amazingly well Jeff write's.
I STRONGLY reccomend buying both the follow up books when purchasing this. Puppy Love 2: Building a Family & Puppy Love 3: Reawakening
I started the first book on Friday night and finished the Third on Monday evening.. Yes I blew away a whole weekend but dog damn it was worth every minute even with the frustrating element of the story repeating. I will be trying to find Paperback copies of these books for a re-read...
Thanks to Jeff for the story that was VERY fulfilling and even had me in tears a couple of times. I'm going to find another title by Jeff now and start reading.
This series is a definite winner for me!!
The two lead characters are incredibly well developed through out the story. With some very well chosen descriptive/visualised scenes played out. I found myself being both frustrated and hopeful as the story grew, with some very confronting issues (again for me).
I have to add some criticism to explain the reason it didn't get 5 stars. I felt that this book, along with the following two books, was jammed together from a whole series of short stories. I found this to be the only real detraction. Basically you will finish a section of the story and then it seems to be a brief run down of the previous part of the story. In TV terms it would be the voice over at the start saying "In last weeks episode".. I've been trying to think of anything else in the story/writing that I found annoying/off putting but honestly can't think of anything that distracted me from the story or characters other than this issue... and it was REALLY frustrating a couple of times - hence the loss of a star.
**** Edit ****
Ok, so I've just come from Jeff's blog, and this is how the story goes, originally the story started off as a serial.. which is why I am feeling like it's a string of episodes.. I've added this here so that people will know just why it's like it is.
**** end Edit ****
Usually in this sort of genre I take of a star or two for the pwp factor (porn with out plot).. In this case, not only were the explicit scenes required, but they were so well written I didn't have any problems imagining what was happening. I may have got squeamish a couple of times but I certainly didn't gloss over them like I normally do.
I decided to track down another story by Jeff after reading his short story Invisible. Invisible is a short story that actually grabbed me - (not being a fan of short stories) for it's highly descriptive story. I was NOT disappointed one iota by just how amazingly well Jeff write's.
I STRONGLY reccomend buying both the follow up books when purchasing this. Puppy Love 2: Building a Family & Puppy Love 3: Reawakening
I started the first book on Friday night and finished the Third on Monday evening.. Yes I blew away a whole weekend but dog damn it was worth every minute even with the frustrating element of the story repeating. I will be trying to find Paperback copies of these books for a re-read...
Thanks to Jeff for the story that was VERY fulfilling and even had me in tears a couple of times. I'm going to find another title by Jeff now and start reading.
March 26, 2011
I'm going to do my best to make this short:
If I never read another story about 2 19-year-olds who want to play Dom/sub without having any clue what they're doing and only having one other pair with dubious training/background in BDSM to guide them, it'll be too soon. Even with dramatic plots, I read to be entertained. There was no entertainment value for me here because I loathed at least some aspect of nearly every single scene.
I have never read a more self-loathing, confidence-lacking sub who is so naive as to believe that being walked over by his 'owner' is the only way this sort of relationship can work, which in some ways is then reinforced by the other, "more experienced" sub he befriends. To make matters worse, the story is told entirely from his point of view. I can only take so much internal monologue of self-deprecation, low self-esteem, and hero-worship, and this story crossed the threshold within the first couple of chapters. Petey's overly descriptive and repetitive internal monologues drove me nuts.
[EDIT: I just found out that the story was originally released a chapter at a time, so the repetition was to help keep the reader up to speed with the story during its original release schedule. While this is a perfectly valid explanation that I accept, reading it all in one go was pure torture. Sorry.]
Nor have I read a more selfish 'Dom' who thinks that because puppyboy doesn't know any better than to put up with it, he's allowed to do whatever the hell he likes with whomever (safe sex be damned, by the way) by right of "I'm in control, and it doesn't matter what you think". I was pretty much disgusted by their "relationship" the entire way through the story - to face such ignorant 'protagonists'. The last few chapters that attempted to make the case for their relationship were too little, too late.
That said, I am sad to think that this premise could actually happen, and probably has. I know people like these two exist, so it's inevitable that eventually they hook up with each other, like monkeys writing Shakespeare on typewriters.
I don't really fault the plot, the characters, or the author for the fact that I just don't like the concept at all. I understand perfectly well that this is a valid type of D/s relationship, but I have no desire to read about it. I know this time that it's just me. That doesn't change the fact that the whole story turned me off. I am not interested in reading the sequels.
This one gets the dubious distinction of being my very first 1-star rating on GR.
If I never read another story about 2 19-year-olds who want to play Dom/sub without having any clue what they're doing and only having one other pair with dubious training/background in BDSM to guide them, it'll be too soon. Even with dramatic plots, I read to be entertained. There was no entertainment value for me here because I loathed at least some aspect of nearly every single scene.
I have never read a more self-loathing, confidence-lacking sub who is so naive as to believe that being walked over by his 'owner' is the only way this sort of relationship can work, which in some ways is then reinforced by the other, "more experienced" sub he befriends. To make matters worse, the story is told entirely from his point of view. I can only take so much internal monologue of self-deprecation, low self-esteem, and hero-worship, and this story crossed the threshold within the first couple of chapters. Petey's overly descriptive and repetitive internal monologues drove me nuts.
[EDIT: I just found out that the story was originally released a chapter at a time, so the repetition was to help keep the reader up to speed with the story during its original release schedule. While this is a perfectly valid explanation that I accept, reading it all in one go was pure torture. Sorry.]
Nor have I read a more selfish 'Dom' who thinks that because puppyboy doesn't know any better than to put up with it, he's allowed to do whatever the hell he likes with whomever (safe sex be damned, by the way) by right of "I'm in control, and it doesn't matter what you think". I was pretty much disgusted by their "relationship" the entire way through the story - to face such ignorant 'protagonists'. The last few chapters that attempted to make the case for their relationship were too little, too late.
That said, I am sad to think that this premise could actually happen, and probably has. I know people like these two exist, so it's inevitable that eventually they hook up with each other, like monkeys writing Shakespeare on typewriters.
I don't really fault the plot, the characters, or the author for the fact that I just don't like the concept at all. I understand perfectly well that this is a valid type of D/s relationship, but I have no desire to read about it. I know this time that it's just me. That doesn't change the fact that the whole story turned me off. I am not interested in reading the sequels.
This one gets the dubious distinction of being my very first 1-star rating on GR.
March 7, 2015
Let me first start by saying that I picked this book because I was told there was puppy play in it...WRONG!!! Ok, I take that back, there was one very teenie tiny scene that didn't take place until about 68% of the way into the book. Really the extent of it was eating off the floor and begging like a dog.
My idea of puppy play is people acting like a dog, being treated like dog, wearing a tail plug, crawling around on all fours, eating out of a dog dish, being collared and leashed etc. This book had NONE of that. If that's what you are looking for, like I was, you will be sorely disappointed!
I was reading this with a friend and he hit the nail on the head by saying the writing seemed childish. I completely agree with his statement. Towards the beginning the phrase "privates" or "private parts" were used to describe cock and balls. Later on there was a mutual wank session with Petey and his friend Drew and the dialogue went something like, you show me yours and I'll show you mine, ok lets do it together then! Ugh...just awful. I've read a lot of D/s books and this one just didn't come off as being very real. More so a jock (Matt) taking advantage of a pathetic nerd (Petey). The other thing I didn't like was there seemed to be a lot of unneeded detail in areas that didn't need them. I think this wordiness is what made this book soooo looooong! One more thing, lots of bad fashion sense throughout the book. I'm not one to really be nit-picky on that sort of thing but really...Umbros! The 90s called...they want their shorts back! And who the hell tucks their beater shirt into their boxers while wearing saggy cargo shorts to show it off. How does one even think that looks good!?
There were numerous times during this book I wanted to DNF it but stuck it out hoping and praying I'd get some good puppy play going. I could kick myself for reading the whole thing, and lost time I could have spent reading something more worth my time.
My idea of puppy play is people acting like a dog, being treated like dog, wearing a tail plug, crawling around on all fours, eating out of a dog dish, being collared and leashed etc. This book had NONE of that. If that's what you are looking for, like I was, you will be sorely disappointed!
I was reading this with a friend and he hit the nail on the head by saying the writing seemed childish. I completely agree with his statement. Towards the beginning the phrase "privates" or "private parts" were used to describe cock and balls. Later on there was a mutual wank session with Petey and his friend Drew and the dialogue went something like, you show me yours and I'll show you mine, ok lets do it together then! Ugh...just awful. I've read a lot of D/s books and this one just didn't come off as being very real. More so a jock (Matt) taking advantage of a pathetic nerd (Petey). The other thing I didn't like was there seemed to be a lot of unneeded detail in areas that didn't need them. I think this wordiness is what made this book soooo looooong! One more thing, lots of bad fashion sense throughout the book. I'm not one to really be nit-picky on that sort of thing but really...Umbros! The 90s called...they want their shorts back! And who the hell tucks their beater shirt into their boxers while wearing saggy cargo shorts to show it off. How does one even think that looks good!?
There were numerous times during this book I wanted to DNF it but stuck it out hoping and praying I'd get some good puppy play going. I could kick myself for reading the whole thing, and lost time I could have spent reading something more worth my time.
June 13, 2010
The voice of nineteen year old Petey, who is emotionally needy, profoundly self absorbed and lonely after the deaths of his parents. He becomes obsessed and fixated on the confident, good-looking Matt who rescues him from a gay bashing. Matt, a baby dom, at times acts like the teenager he is and at other times shows a grace and maturity far beyond his years. Petey, a born victim if ever there was one, now lives to please Matt. Any attention from Matt no matter how (or especially if) humiliating or painful are rapturously accepted as signs of love.
Much BDSM is rather formulaic but this is a SIX PLUS star read for being so believable and creating such wonderful people. Reading it is an emotional rollercoaster - never know whether to laugh or cry or agree or tremble in dread and anticipation.
Often in these books the female characters are cardboard, and dealt with most unsympathetically. But here, I adored Matt's sister, and in many ways totally support her disapproval of Matt. But I can understand Petey too so I'm totally torn. Can't wait for Puppy Love 2.
Much BDSM is rather formulaic but this is a SIX PLUS star read for being so believable and creating such wonderful people. Reading it is an emotional rollercoaster - never know whether to laugh or cry or agree or tremble in dread and anticipation.
Often in these books the female characters are cardboard, and dealt with most unsympathetically. But here, I adored Matt's sister, and in many ways totally support her disapproval of Matt. But I can understand Petey too so I'm totally torn. Can't wait for Puppy Love 2.
September 4, 2011
I've tried six times unsuccessfully to read this book. I'm determined I don't like the way the characters banter and this writing style doesn't do it for me. The MC is annoying and I can't quite put my finger on why. I guess this is only for the die hard m/m fans.
October 25, 2015
2010 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
May 25, 2011
This review contains many spoilers. I’m sure I’m missing some of the stuff that made my stomach turn, but this will do for now.
PETEY-
Petey is a character that makes me uncomfortable as the lead in a romance...if that's what we're calling this. He comes across as someone very young, who needs protection from himself and his own bad decisions. Although some adults read Harry Potter, I don't know many that have a poster of him up in their bedroom. Even his physical description was a little off-putting--a little over 100 pounds soaking wet, 5"2, with delicate nerdy features. Just not my cup of tea—he sounded like a little boy! I want to ogle my romance hero, not buckle him in a car seat. Especially the way he kept squealing about gaining weight--oh, I couldn't possibly eat that, sir! Even if Erno was trying to make him sound like the most annoying (stereotypical) girl in the world, he outdid himself. Even his name was ick. If you met a grown man named Timothy and he beamed and said, “Oh, call me Timmie,” I would be like, “Um, no.”
I thought maybe Petey would learn to stand up for himself by the end of the book, but that wasn’t where Erno was going with this, and I learned to accept it. The scene in the very beginning where the guys humiliated him on the bus was very accurate to how the rest of the book would go. I mean, I understand someone getting the best of you and beating you up, but when they say “beg like a dog for your Harry Potter book,” and they don’t have a gun, you pretty much say no. They even told him to crawl to them and beg, and he was more concerned about being late for class than undergoing some crazy humiliation. Maybe I could have felt more for him if he needed the book he was reading, like a textbook he couldn’t possibly afford to buy again.
MATT-
Matt seems like a dom-in-training that is earning his stripes on Petey’s back. He doesn’t seem to know what he’s doing, and uses him like a pet, not a dom. It’s not even the excitement of “you are a strong individual but when it comes to me, you do WHAT I say, WHEN I say, and it turns us both on.” It’s more like, “here’s this weak kid that needs a father figure in his life and a little rescuing, and I’m going to make him please me sexually and dress like a mini-me. You know, because I can.” Also, I feel like part of the draw of a strong Dom would be his power and Matt’s power is all borrowed. His parents bought his cars, he lives in their house (they conveniently disappear when Petey wants to come over for a sex session…aren’t parents so convenient that way?), etc. I’m sure they wouldn’t be pleased that he spent their money to buy Petey a damn dog collar. Or a cruise. Even when he manages to pull it off for a minute, he uses phrases like “It’s cool,” or “peace out,” and “you’re a chill dude,” that totally make me realize that he’s like ten. Matt is cold when Petey calls him on the phone, even going so far to change his number and tell him to earn it back. He goes on dates with Tracy and then comes by, expecting Petey to service him. Which Petey does and loves, even with no sexual gratification of his own. When he explains to Petey why it’s ok that Matt is superior and Petey is inferior, I want to bite him.
THE BOOK
The urine scenes do not bear revisiting. I’ve read some unusual things, about some unusual people with questionable tastes and predilections. But let’s face it—urine is disgusting. If it smells disgusting in a toilet…well, I’m done with that for now. It was apparent at all times that this was not a game for Matt—he really believed he had acquired a pet. These were not scenes in the bedroom or in private. I skipped a lot of the sex in the book—it wasn’t earned. I don’t want to read about a wife-beater having great sex with his wife, and I don’t want to read about this either. The way Petey treated Cameron was abominable. I was actually thinking a good twist would be for Cameron to show him how a real Dom works, but it was not to be. He never told us why he kept calling Tracey a bitch. Wasn’t she the one being cheated on? Wasn’t Matt the cheating bitch he should be bad mouthing? His sister is so concerned for him and super nice, and Petey smacks her in the face at every turn.
But hell, judge for yourself. Read this excerpt below, and tell me it doesn’t sound like someone trying to defend her/his abuser to a concerned family member.
“Cameron, do you have any idea how much Matt has done for me?” I snapped back. “He rescued me like I told you last night. He bought me new contact
lenses, haircuts, brand new clothes. He got me a whole new wardrobe! Plus, he takes me places with him and pays for everything. You saw what he gave
me for my birthday present last night! How can you say that he is treating me bad?”
“Listen to me, Petey,” he said, trying to calm me, “Matt has a lot of money. His family does. It is no big deal for him to buy you a cruise or a new wardrobe of clothes. It’s not like he had to go out and earn that money, ya know. It is there for him to use…he’s spoiled.”
“Well, he could be just using it on himself, but instead he chooses to buy things for me. Plus, he doesn’t even like it when I get him gifts in return. He tells me I should not be spending all my money on him.”
“You shouldn’t Petey. That’s one thing I agree with him on. He has the disposable income to spend. You don’t!”
“Maybe this was a mistake…to talk to you like this.” I pushed my chair back and immediately stood up.
“No wait! Wait Petey, I’m sorry. I’m not trying to hurt you.”
“You’re not hurting me! You’re making me mad! I can’t believe the things you are saying about Matt. You don’t know anything about him. You don’t know
what he is like!” I was yelling at this point.
Insert black eye, and my work is done here. By the way, did I forget to mention that when Petey comes to the conclusion that Matt is his EVERYTHING (like we hadn’t stopped praying for a miracle at this point), and runs over there to tell him that, Matt is unapologetically with another girl? Did I mention that? Isn’t that a lovely ending that makes your heart go pitter patt?
PETEY-
Petey is a character that makes me uncomfortable as the lead in a romance...if that's what we're calling this. He comes across as someone very young, who needs protection from himself and his own bad decisions. Although some adults read Harry Potter, I don't know many that have a poster of him up in their bedroom. Even his physical description was a little off-putting--a little over 100 pounds soaking wet, 5"2, with delicate nerdy features. Just not my cup of tea—he sounded like a little boy! I want to ogle my romance hero, not buckle him in a car seat. Especially the way he kept squealing about gaining weight--oh, I couldn't possibly eat that, sir! Even if Erno was trying to make him sound like the most annoying (stereotypical) girl in the world, he outdid himself. Even his name was ick. If you met a grown man named Timothy and he beamed and said, “Oh, call me Timmie,” I would be like, “Um, no.”
I thought maybe Petey would learn to stand up for himself by the end of the book, but that wasn’t where Erno was going with this, and I learned to accept it. The scene in the very beginning where the guys humiliated him on the bus was very accurate to how the rest of the book would go. I mean, I understand someone getting the best of you and beating you up, but when they say “beg like a dog for your Harry Potter book,” and they don’t have a gun, you pretty much say no. They even told him to crawl to them and beg, and he was more concerned about being late for class than undergoing some crazy humiliation. Maybe I could have felt more for him if he needed the book he was reading, like a textbook he couldn’t possibly afford to buy again.
MATT-
Matt seems like a dom-in-training that is earning his stripes on Petey’s back. He doesn’t seem to know what he’s doing, and uses him like a pet, not a dom. It’s not even the excitement of “you are a strong individual but when it comes to me, you do WHAT I say, WHEN I say, and it turns us both on.” It’s more like, “here’s this weak kid that needs a father figure in his life and a little rescuing, and I’m going to make him please me sexually and dress like a mini-me. You know, because I can.” Also, I feel like part of the draw of a strong Dom would be his power and Matt’s power is all borrowed. His parents bought his cars, he lives in their house (they conveniently disappear when Petey wants to come over for a sex session…aren’t parents so convenient that way?), etc. I’m sure they wouldn’t be pleased that he spent their money to buy Petey a damn dog collar. Or a cruise. Even when he manages to pull it off for a minute, he uses phrases like “It’s cool,” or “peace out,” and “you’re a chill dude,” that totally make me realize that he’s like ten. Matt is cold when Petey calls him on the phone, even going so far to change his number and tell him to earn it back. He goes on dates with Tracy and then comes by, expecting Petey to service him. Which Petey does and loves, even with no sexual gratification of his own. When he explains to Petey why it’s ok that Matt is superior and Petey is inferior, I want to bite him.
THE BOOK
The urine scenes do not bear revisiting. I’ve read some unusual things, about some unusual people with questionable tastes and predilections. But let’s face it—urine is disgusting. If it smells disgusting in a toilet…well, I’m done with that for now. It was apparent at all times that this was not a game for Matt—he really believed he had acquired a pet. These were not scenes in the bedroom or in private. I skipped a lot of the sex in the book—it wasn’t earned. I don’t want to read about a wife-beater having great sex with his wife, and I don’t want to read about this either. The way Petey treated Cameron was abominable. I was actually thinking a good twist would be for Cameron to show him how a real Dom works, but it was not to be. He never told us why he kept calling Tracey a bitch. Wasn’t she the one being cheated on? Wasn’t Matt the cheating bitch he should be bad mouthing? His sister is so concerned for him and super nice, and Petey smacks her in the face at every turn.
But hell, judge for yourself. Read this excerpt below, and tell me it doesn’t sound like someone trying to defend her/his abuser to a concerned family member.
“Cameron, do you have any idea how much Matt has done for me?” I snapped back. “He rescued me like I told you last night. He bought me new contact
lenses, haircuts, brand new clothes. He got me a whole new wardrobe! Plus, he takes me places with him and pays for everything. You saw what he gave
me for my birthday present last night! How can you say that he is treating me bad?”
“Listen to me, Petey,” he said, trying to calm me, “Matt has a lot of money. His family does. It is no big deal for him to buy you a cruise or a new wardrobe of clothes. It’s not like he had to go out and earn that money, ya know. It is there for him to use…he’s spoiled.”
“Well, he could be just using it on himself, but instead he chooses to buy things for me. Plus, he doesn’t even like it when I get him gifts in return. He tells me I should not be spending all my money on him.”
“You shouldn’t Petey. That’s one thing I agree with him on. He has the disposable income to spend. You don’t!”
“Maybe this was a mistake…to talk to you like this.” I pushed my chair back and immediately stood up.
“No wait! Wait Petey, I’m sorry. I’m not trying to hurt you.”
“You’re not hurting me! You’re making me mad! I can’t believe the things you are saying about Matt. You don’t know anything about him. You don’t know
what he is like!” I was yelling at this point.
Insert black eye, and my work is done here. By the way, did I forget to mention that when Petey comes to the conclusion that Matt is his EVERYTHING (like we hadn’t stopped praying for a miracle at this point), and runs over there to tell him that, Matt is unapologetically with another girl? Did I mention that? Isn’t that a lovely ending that makes your heart go pitter patt?
April 14, 2010
This book is *almost* a 5 star book for me....More like 4 3/4. I am fascinated by the evolving relationship between Matt and Petey. I can't wait for the next book. I kept getting closer & closer to the end of the book & it just didn't feel like anything was resolved. I was so happy to see there is going to be a book 2 & maybe even a 3rd. Some people really dislike Matt because they feel he is hurting Petey because he is not monogamous. And well he is hurting him. Matt is also just a kid. Even though he may have more experience, I think the depth of feeling that he has for Petey is something that was lacking in his previous D/s experience. So he is learning & stumbling along just as much as Petey.
I think the one thing that bothered me was Matt spanking/punishing Petey in front of Alex. Matt made him apologize for his rudeness, like he had made him do several other times. But he never punished him in front of the offended parties before. That to me had nothing to do with Matt & Petey's relationship and everything to do with Matt & Alex's friendship. I think Matt even said he did it show Alex that Petey was a sub & Alex was dominant - or something along those lines. Petey didn't seem to have a problem with it at the time, but I wonder if this will come up again in the future.
The bitch and pussy name calling didn't really bother me. I felt that the other female characters were portrayed well - Petey's sister Kathie & even the small party scene with Melissa Petey's coworker. Honestly Tracy was portrayed pretty much as a bitch. Especially with the way she treated Kathie. Matt always makes a big deal about respect and politeness. But I dont' feel that necessarily contradicts with the way he refers to the girls he sleeps with.
I read the 2 stories on the authors website - they were from Matt and Ryan's POV. There is definitely a lot of tension building up with Ryan & I am intrigued to see how that will be handled.
I think the one thing that bothered me was Matt spanking/punishing Petey in front of Alex. Matt made him apologize for his rudeness, like he had made him do several other times. But he never punished him in front of the offended parties before. That to me had nothing to do with Matt & Petey's relationship and everything to do with Matt & Alex's friendship. I think Matt even said he did it show Alex that Petey was a sub & Alex was dominant - or something along those lines. Petey didn't seem to have a problem with it at the time, but I wonder if this will come up again in the future.
The bitch and pussy name calling didn't really bother me. I felt that the other female characters were portrayed well - Petey's sister Kathie & even the small party scene with Melissa Petey's coworker. Honestly Tracy was portrayed pretty much as a bitch. Especially with the way she treated Kathie. Matt always makes a big deal about respect and politeness. But I dont' feel that necessarily contradicts with the way he refers to the girls he sleeps with.
I read the 2 stories on the authors website - they were from Matt and Ryan's POV. There is definitely a lot of tension building up with Ryan & I am intrigued to see how that will be handled.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2013
I suck at reviews I know that but I just have to have my say. I don't particulary like BDSM stories but when written in the style of authors like Kim Dare, I can appreciate it. Puppy Love is one of those stories you hope will get better but never does. First of all the style of writing is ANNOYING. I actually had to wade through it. The conversations irritated me especially Matt's side, always using terms like "chill dude" and the like. As a main character I find Petey irritating. He seems to have no back bone whatsoever going along with whatever Matt decides and never having an opinion. He is always cowering, always crying and honestly I find him pathetic. Being submissive doesn't mean you have to be someone else's doormat and that's exactly what Petey is. The fact that a grown man is called Petey by everyone and loving it really rubs me up the wrong way but I guess that's just me. Now I dislike a lot of things about Matt, the way he treats Petey: expecting him to be ok with his cheating, cuz yes that's what it is; having him drink his pee which is revolting and in no way sexy. I don't care that Petey doesn't mind it's still gross. I can somehow tolerate and sometimes like BDSM stories but I can never like it when humiliation is introduced. However, as much as reading it was a struggle, I couldn't really abandon the book, there was something about it that made me keep turning the next page. I mean, I came this far, I couldn't just quit! And it was because of that mentality I tortured myself by reading the following two books. I followed Petey's and Matt's story to the end and now I can toss all three books aside never to be read again.
September 10, 2011
It's interesting to me that the reviews for this book are all over the place. That's probably one of the reasons I liked it so much; it was involving enough that people felt passionately about it, one way or the other.
This is by far my favorite D/s novel to date. I loved the characters and the way that the relationship developed and grew. It also had all the elements that I enjoy in a D/s novel, (some of which apparently bother other people a great deal). I would say that this novel is about "lifestyle" D/s rather than "scene" D/s. There are no leather-men, or dungeons, or SM clubs or bags full of gear. It's about the dynamic of living, loving, discovering and growing in a D/s relationship. It's a perspective that I recognize clearly and to which I relate wholeheartedly. To each his own, I guess.
Because I read Puppy Love 1, 2 and 3 one right after the other, I can't really remember where one left off and the next began, so I won't comment on specifics. I will just say that Puppy Love was my favorite of the three, but I so wanted to spend more time with these characters that I'm sure I would have gobbled up Puppy Loves 4, 5 and 6 as well, had they been written.
This is by far my favorite D/s novel to date. I loved the characters and the way that the relationship developed and grew. It also had all the elements that I enjoy in a D/s novel, (some of which apparently bother other people a great deal). I would say that this novel is about "lifestyle" D/s rather than "scene" D/s. There are no leather-men, or dungeons, or SM clubs or bags full of gear. It's about the dynamic of living, loving, discovering and growing in a D/s relationship. It's a perspective that I recognize clearly and to which I relate wholeheartedly. To each his own, I guess.
Because I read Puppy Love 1, 2 and 3 one right after the other, I can't really remember where one left off and the next began, so I won't comment on specifics. I will just say that Puppy Love was my favorite of the three, but I so wanted to spend more time with these characters that I'm sure I would have gobbled up Puppy Loves 4, 5 and 6 as well, had they been written.
January 15, 2014
It wasn't horrendous. Well... the writing was quite bad. I think this is pretty close to what The Carnalli Complex is almost a parody of.
But it's all sex and almost no plot and characterization is inconsistent and plot details are inconsistent.
The one thing I can say about it is that, as porn, it isn't totally bad.
And the BDSM relationship philosophy is twisted. And the characters seem far younger than they are supposed to be. And the sub is too... depressed. And by the end of the 500 pages, everything seemed to be getting repetitive. The characters were going through the same cycles again and again and the sex seemed quite similar.
And my impression is that all of Jeff Erno's books are something like this.
But I think he truly does identify with the characters in his books and may even have experience in this. Just not what I want from BDSM relationships.
But it's all sex and almost no plot and characterization is inconsistent and plot details are inconsistent.
The one thing I can say about it is that, as porn, it isn't totally bad.
And the BDSM relationship philosophy is twisted. And the characters seem far younger than they are supposed to be. And the sub is too... depressed. And by the end of the 500 pages, everything seemed to be getting repetitive. The characters were going through the same cycles again and again and the sex seemed quite similar.
And my impression is that all of Jeff Erno's books are something like this.
But I think he truly does identify with the characters in his books and may even have experience in this. Just not what I want from BDSM relationships.
August 22, 2012
I could not finish this book. From the start, the guys seemed way too young to be playing with the whole d/s theme the way they were, though maybe that was where some of their problems came from. It was too difficult to watch Petey constantly put himself down and continually worship Matt. There were times when I thought Matt might be somewhat ok, but, most of the time, I was waiting for him to inflict more damage. I gave up before they actually participated in anything too heavy. This story was just not for me.
May 1, 2018
eklemeyi unuttuklarımda bugün. 3. ay indirmişim abi...
şimdi bana neden diye sormayın.
ben kitabu ilk görüp başlığı okuyup kapaktaki köpeği fark edince oh fuck dedim hayvan mı karıştırdınız işin içine ama değil. herif puppy diye seviyor. aynı şekilde bildiğin bir insan köpeği nasıl severse fiziksel olarak da seviyor.
mevzu aralarında yaş farkı bulunan ezik bi oğlanla şerefsiz bir herifin D/b (daddy/boy) ilişkisi (yani dom/sub, yani mm, yani gay). bdsm var. işeme var. gıdıklama var. paylaşma var. aşağılama var. eziyet var. psikolojik oyunlar var. hepsi var.
merak kediyi öldürür, atlayarak okumama rağmen gına geldi. normalde fanteziler beni ilgilendirmez ama dom olan matt denen şerefsize bir dakika bile ısınamadığım için çöp bence kitap.
şimdi bana neden diye sormayın.
ben kitabu ilk görüp başlığı okuyup kapaktaki köpeği fark edince oh fuck dedim hayvan mı karıştırdınız işin içine ama değil. herif puppy diye seviyor. aynı şekilde bildiğin bir insan köpeği nasıl severse fiziksel olarak da seviyor.
mevzu aralarında yaş farkı bulunan ezik bi oğlanla şerefsiz bir herifin D/b (daddy/boy) ilişkisi (yani dom/sub, yani mm, yani gay). bdsm var. işeme var. gıdıklama var. paylaşma var. aşağılama var. eziyet var. psikolojik oyunlar var. hepsi var.
merak kediyi öldürür, atlayarak okumama rağmen gına geldi. normalde fanteziler beni ilgilendirmez ama dom olan matt denen şerefsize bir dakika bile ısınamadığım için çöp bence kitap.
August 13, 2013
Ugh, where to start. This is a terrible book, is poorly written, has zero legitimate growth or plot development, obnoxious and inconsistently written characters, and despite being 534 pages long, book ends without any real resolution but with the statement "To be continued in Book 2"! I would put this firmly on the "do not read" list.
I have to strongly warn for the use of the term "fag" in a non-ironic, completely offensive way. After getting called a "fag" by two psychos who beat up Petey (the narrator), an event Matt (the romantic lead) witnesses and rescues Petey from, Petey talks to Matt about being called a "fag." Matt says, "I'm not about to allow MYSELF [my emphasis added] to be labeled a faggot, cause that just isn't me. I'm not at all the faggy type." About five minutes later Matt shouts "Suck my cock, fag!" at Petey while he's coming. That's a quote from the book's "hero" during the first sex scene between our two protagonists. Charming, isn't he?
And of course Petey embraces the term for himself not because he's proud or he owns the term, but mostly just to distinguish him and his fellow "inferior" friend Drew from "superior" guys like Matt. Matt calls Petey a "fag" pretty much every time he comes. One time after Matt says "Suck it fag!", Petey notes: "he (Matt) began to verbalize the reality of his (Matt's) superiority." If this was just a sexual thing, it would be one thing. But this is the overwhelming reality of this book. Matt is a "superior person" because he's tall and strong and athletic and smart and is not a fag, even though he kisses and sucks and fucks a guy. Petey is inferior because he is short and skinny and is a fag, because - well, because he's a bottom, I guess. And because Matt says he is. And Petey explains why he believes it, for excruciatingly long and boring passages.
I'm a monogamy girl but I read books with where one or both partners cheat. I read books with open relationships. I read books with polyamory. I have never read a book where one character cheats and the other a) knows b) hates it c) is told to just accept it. Why shouldn't Matt have sex with whoever he wants? He's so superior! And it's his right. And he didn't promise to be faithful. Here's a direct quote from Drew (Petey's instany best friend): "In the end, they return to us. Shouldn't that be enough?" Oh, and d) when the cheater is told that their partner hates the infidelity, continues it and acts like he's doing the partner a favor by being in the relationship at all. That Matt, such a charmer.
And just when you think Petey is going to stand up for himself and realize that he's not inferior, that being with Matt isn't a reason to take whatever Matt gives him, we get 30 pages of interior dialogue explaining why Petey is inferior, why he is so lucky to have Matt in any way Matt wants him, there's a brief (like one page) reconciliation scene and then "To be continued."
And dear God, the writing. Half the time the author didn't use contractions and use constant use of the term "then" was maddening. "Matt then turned around. He then picked me up. I then shivered in his arms." I could not get through a paragraph without then thinking about how bad the writing was. It's so bad, it's like when you're in a stinky bathroom and you're breathing through your nose, trying not to smell it, but you can't ignore it, since you have to work not to smell it. It's distracting, annoying and you really just want it to stop.
So why did I keep reading this? Because Petey is sweet and charming, has had a difficult life, is suffering from low self-esteem and an eating disorder, and you want to root for him. I thought that using him as the first-person narrator for this was the author's (admittedly ham-handed) attempt to show that innocence. I mean, Matt looks this bad through PETEY'S perspective - how bad would he look in third person! And while I don't get the humiliation kink taken to this extreme, as part of a negotiated power exchange, I can be entertained by it. At the beginning, Petey makes an argument about voluntary slavery and open-mindedness meaning you have be open-minded about what other people are doing even if you wouldn't choose it yourself, which made some sense.
But this. This isn't rational and negotiated power exchange. This isn't an unhealthy power exchange that results in growth by the main character(s). This is a complete sexual innocent who is reeling from a violent attack and has terrible self-esteem. This is not the ideal candidate for a relationship with someone who isn't monogamous. Or with someone who's "scenes" encompass violence, humiliation, and evoke painful and terrifying memories. But when the only growth in Petey's character is that he decides to take whatever his "true love" Matt sees fit to give him and be happy about it, I was just DONE.
Yeah, I hated this book.
I have to strongly warn for the use of the term "fag" in a non-ironic, completely offensive way. After getting called a "fag" by two psychos who beat up Petey (the narrator), an event Matt (the romantic lead) witnesses and rescues Petey from, Petey talks to Matt about being called a "fag." Matt says, "I'm not about to allow MYSELF [my emphasis added] to be labeled a faggot, cause that just isn't me. I'm not at all the faggy type." About five minutes later Matt shouts "Suck my cock, fag!" at Petey while he's coming. That's a quote from the book's "hero" during the first sex scene between our two protagonists. Charming, isn't he?
And of course Petey embraces the term for himself not because he's proud or he owns the term, but mostly just to distinguish him and his fellow "inferior" friend Drew from "superior" guys like Matt. Matt calls Petey a "fag" pretty much every time he comes. One time after Matt says "Suck it fag!", Petey notes: "he (Matt) began to verbalize the reality of his (Matt's) superiority." If this was just a sexual thing, it would be one thing. But this is the overwhelming reality of this book. Matt is a "superior person" because he's tall and strong and athletic and smart and is not a fag, even though he kisses and sucks and fucks a guy. Petey is inferior because he is short and skinny and is a fag, because - well, because he's a bottom, I guess. And because Matt says he is. And Petey explains why he believes it, for excruciatingly long and boring passages.
I'm a monogamy girl but I read books with where one or both partners cheat. I read books with open relationships. I read books with polyamory. I have never read a book where one character cheats and the other a) knows b) hates it c) is told to just accept it. Why shouldn't Matt have sex with whoever he wants? He's so superior! And it's his right. And he didn't promise to be faithful. Here's a direct quote from Drew (Petey's instany best friend): "In the end, they return to us. Shouldn't that be enough?" Oh, and d) when the cheater is told that their partner hates the infidelity, continues it and acts like he's doing the partner a favor by being in the relationship at all. That Matt, such a charmer.
And just when you think Petey is going to stand up for himself and realize that he's not inferior, that being with Matt isn't a reason to take whatever Matt gives him, we get 30 pages of interior dialogue explaining why Petey is inferior, why he is so lucky to have Matt in any way Matt wants him, there's a brief (like one page) reconciliation scene and then "To be continued."
And dear God, the writing. Half the time the author didn't use contractions and use constant use of the term "then" was maddening. "Matt then turned around. He then picked me up. I then shivered in his arms." I could not get through a paragraph without then thinking about how bad the writing was. It's so bad, it's like when you're in a stinky bathroom and you're breathing through your nose, trying not to smell it, but you can't ignore it, since you have to work not to smell it. It's distracting, annoying and you really just want it to stop.
So why did I keep reading this? Because Petey is sweet and charming, has had a difficult life, is suffering from low self-esteem and an eating disorder, and you want to root for him. I thought that using him as the first-person narrator for this was the author's (admittedly ham-handed) attempt to show that innocence. I mean, Matt looks this bad through PETEY'S perspective - how bad would he look in third person! And while I don't get the humiliation kink taken to this extreme, as part of a negotiated power exchange, I can be entertained by it. At the beginning, Petey makes an argument about voluntary slavery and open-mindedness meaning you have be open-minded about what other people are doing even if you wouldn't choose it yourself, which made some sense.
But this. This isn't rational and negotiated power exchange. This isn't an unhealthy power exchange that results in growth by the main character(s). This is a complete sexual innocent who is reeling from a violent attack and has terrible self-esteem. This is not the ideal candidate for a relationship with someone who isn't monogamous. Or with someone who's "scenes" encompass violence, humiliation, and evoke painful and terrifying memories. But when the only growth in Petey's character is that he decides to take whatever his "true love" Matt sees fit to give him and be happy about it, I was just DONE.
Yeah, I hated this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews