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Perfect Timing #6
The Stroke of Twelve
Book six in the Perfect Timing Series On the stroke of twelve Devon belongs to him for one hour. One hour that will change the course of his life forever.Free of responsibility and provided with an independent income, Devon Ashford floats through life thinking only of where the next party might be. When a note orders Devon to present himself at Templeton, Crawford & Associates at noon on Wednesday, he s curious enough and bored enough to follow the order.He doesn t know what to expect when he arrives, but it s not to be told that on the stroke of twelve, he ll belong to the stern man on the other side of the desk for exactly one hour. He doesn t expect anyone to command him to strip for an inspection. Nor does he expect to follow the orders of a stranger. He certainly doesn t imagine he could like doing that enough to go back for more.Whatever he expects, Devon s about to discover that what happens at the stroke of twelve could change the course of his life forever.Please note: The stories in this collection are linked solely by theme. Each story can be read on it's own and the stories can be read in any order."
90 pages, ebook
First published January 3, 2011
About the author
Kim Dare
160 books1,523 followersKim is a thirty-three year old bisexual submissive from Wales (UK). First published in 2008, she has since released almost 100 BDSM erotic romance titles ranging from short stories to full length novels. Having worked with a host of fantastic e-publishers, she has just moved into self publishing.
While she has occasionally ventured towards other pairings, Kim's first love is still, and probably always will be, Male/Male stories. But, no matter what the pairing, from paranormal to contemporary, and from the sweet to the intense, everything she writes will always feature three things - Kink, Love and a Happy Ending.
While she has occasionally ventured towards other pairings, Kim's first love is still, and probably always will be, Male/Male stories. But, no matter what the pairing, from paranormal to contemporary, and from the sweet to the intense, everything she writes will always feature three things - Kink, Love and a Happy Ending.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 13, 2011
This story gives a whole new meaning to the concept of a 24/7 relationship. The way Kim plays with the element of time is just wonderful. It also allows the relationship to build slowly, while communicating to the characters as well as me, the reader, exactly where they are in their development at any time. Brilliant idea!
Devon is a very lost young man. Not needing to work for his living has led to him losing all sense of direction and purpose. The way he accidentally (or so he thinks) falls into the situation with the man who will become his master is typical of where his head is at (or not!) in the beginning. I loved the way he explores his new situation, curious and always wanting more - but since the master is in charge, he doesn't have any say in what happens.
Mr. Templeton remains a little of an enigma (which I really liked in this case), since we only get very short glimpses into his thoughts. The rest we have to infer from his actions, just like Devon. I thought that made for a wonderful extra level of tension while telling me more than if there hadn't been any of his point of view in the story.
This is a wonderful exploration of a D/s relationship with great insights into the sub's perspective, while giving a tantalizing view of the Dom's point of view as well. Recommended to Kim Dare fans and people who like exploring D/s relationships from a psychological point of view.
NOTE: This book was provided by Total-E-Bound for the purpose of a review at Queer Magazine Online.
Devon is a very lost young man. Not needing to work for his living has led to him losing all sense of direction and purpose. The way he accidentally (or so he thinks) falls into the situation with the man who will become his master is typical of where his head is at (or not!) in the beginning. I loved the way he explores his new situation, curious and always wanting more - but since the master is in charge, he doesn't have any say in what happens.
Mr. Templeton remains a little of an enigma (which I really liked in this case), since we only get very short glimpses into his thoughts. The rest we have to infer from his actions, just like Devon. I thought that made for a wonderful extra level of tension while telling me more than if there hadn't been any of his point of view in the story.
This is a wonderful exploration of a D/s relationship with great insights into the sub's perspective, while giving a tantalizing view of the Dom's point of view as well. Recommended to Kim Dare fans and people who like exploring D/s relationships from a psychological point of view.
NOTE: This book was provided by Total-E-Bound for the purpose of a review at Queer Magazine Online.
January 23, 2018
This was such a beautiful and heartfelt story. Kim Dare always does an amazing job writing from deep within the submissive's mindset I always love her stories.
To see how Devon grows and changes over time with Mr. Templeton - to receive the support and structure he needs to move away from his damaging, unrewarding lifestyle and his crappy friends was really nice. He finds this self-confidence and purpose... how she does it all in 90 pages is always a mystery.
Super lovely.
To see how Devon grows and changes over time with Mr. Templeton - to receive the support and structure he needs to move away from his damaging, unrewarding lifestyle and his crappy friends was really nice. He finds this self-confidence and purpose... how she does it all in 90 pages is always a mystery.
Super lovely.
January 3, 2011
Wow! Another great read from Kim Dare! I rushed through it so quickly that I'll have to re-read it right away. But my first impressions......
The use of "time" was an awesome approach (but I won't "spoil" that part).
Devon is darling and sweet. He's also aimless and lost, dealing with the pain of his parents' rejection and having no direction in his life. Then he responds to a note (a summons really) from the mysterious Mr. Templeton.
Mr. Templeton (and the "MR." is sweetly important in this lovely story) is the experienced yet lonely Dominant who sees something rare and special in Devon. He patiently helps Devon find his way, not only with his introduction to a DOM/sub relationship, he also supports Devon in other aspects of his life -- going back to school, finding meaningful and fulfilling work, etc.
Both characters experience growth through their relationship. While Devon's may be much more obvious, Mr. Templeton also realizes that as orderly and controlled as his life may be, having everything his own way, it can be pretty damned empty without the right man to share it with. He shows his growing feelings toward Devon in subtle ways, but there are some real "sigh" moments. Mr. Templeton even surprises himself. I'm always a sucker for a stern DOM who goes "soppy" over his sub, feigns disgust over it, then laughs at himself.
Some favorite moments....Mr. Templeton having all of Devon's textbooks in his home library; Devon wrapping his gift for Mr. Templeton with a navy ribbon, the same color as Mr. Templeton's favorite suit; Devon's shocked reaction at seeing Mr. Templeton dressed casually; and Mr. Templeton's determination that Devon will never again feel the kind of pain his parents' rejection and opinion of him caused. There are many more....
Kim Dare continues to give her readers a unique spin in each of her BDSM love stories. The sex is HOT and her characters are always memorable. Highly recommended!
The use of "time" was an awesome approach (but I won't "spoil" that part).
Devon is darling and sweet. He's also aimless and lost, dealing with the pain of his parents' rejection and having no direction in his life. Then he responds to a note (a summons really) from the mysterious Mr. Templeton.
Mr. Templeton (and the "MR." is sweetly important in this lovely story) is the experienced yet lonely Dominant who sees something rare and special in Devon. He patiently helps Devon find his way, not only with his introduction to a DOM/sub relationship, he also supports Devon in other aspects of his life -- going back to school, finding meaningful and fulfilling work, etc.
Both characters experience growth through their relationship. While Devon's may be much more obvious, Mr. Templeton also realizes that as orderly and controlled as his life may be, having everything his own way, it can be pretty damned empty without the right man to share it with. He shows his growing feelings toward Devon in subtle ways, but there are some real "sigh" moments. Mr. Templeton even surprises himself. I'm always a sucker for a stern DOM who goes "soppy" over his sub, feigns disgust over it, then laughs at himself.
Some favorite moments....Mr. Templeton having all of Devon's textbooks in his home library; Devon wrapping his gift for Mr. Templeton with a navy ribbon, the same color as Mr. Templeton's favorite suit; Devon's shocked reaction at seeing Mr. Templeton dressed casually; and Mr. Templeton's determination that Devon will never again feel the kind of pain his parents' rejection and opinion of him caused. There are many more....
Kim Dare continues to give her readers a unique spin in each of her BDSM love stories. The sex is HOT and her characters are always memorable. Highly recommended!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2012
Lovely D/s novella: the best in this series I think. The pace is very leisurely and calming, much like Mr Templeton himself. The book is about the pleasure of submission, in and of itself, rather than about trying out every toy in the dungeon. Devon is a very lucky boy.
I happened to look at some vintage Star Trek ads right before reading this story, and consequently envisioned Templeton as Spock. While freaky as hell, this worked suprisingly well for the narrative.
I happened to look at some vintage Star Trek ads right before reading this story, and consequently envisioned Templeton as Spock. While freaky as hell, this worked suprisingly well for the narrative.
March 29, 2017
4.75 stars
This book was recommended to me by my GR friend Theresa.
Sexy, brilliant and a great build up. Watching Devon come into his own was great. Mr. Templeton had such excellent control on his feelings for Devon, I was impressed.
This book was recommended to me by my GR friend Theresa.
Sexy, brilliant and a great build up. Watching Devon come into his own was great. Mr. Templeton had such excellent control on his feelings for Devon, I was impressed.
January 4, 2011
I really did enjoy this book. A little shocked when the characters were thrown virtually straight into a scene/relationship with little to no build up, but once I got over that the story seemed to progress at a nice pace for me. There was a gradual development of the characters, their relationship and the intensity of BDSM that I really appreciated. Well written. Compelling characters. Simple but satisfying plot.
One of my favourite experiences when reading a Kim Dare book is when I think I have a handle on a character-who they are, their motivations, where they've come from and what they're about-and then she very subtly shows me how first impressions and judging someone at face value can be so very unfair. Devon certainly didn't disappoint in that regard. I can imagine meeting Devon in a pub at the beginning of this book and not having a very good opinion of him at all...and yet he's so very sweet, vulnerable and in need of love. Just goes to show you.
The second thing that really stood out for me in this book was the notion that the Dom needs a sub every bit as much as a sub needs a Dom. Won't say too much about this, but the conversation this came up in really helped me fall for Mr. Andrew Templeton...I don't know, maybe it's just me, but I really liked seeing the equal need and connection between the characters.
Definitely recommended for Kim Dare fans and anyone who's ever wondered what that drunken twinky brat dancing on top of the tables might really have going on in his life, or why the boss is suddenly giving out long lunch breaks! :)
One of my favourite experiences when reading a Kim Dare book is when I think I have a handle on a character-who they are, their motivations, where they've come from and what they're about-and then she very subtly shows me how first impressions and judging someone at face value can be so very unfair. Devon certainly didn't disappoint in that regard. I can imagine meeting Devon in a pub at the beginning of this book and not having a very good opinion of him at all...and yet he's so very sweet, vulnerable and in need of love. Just goes to show you.
The second thing that really stood out for me in this book was the notion that the Dom needs a sub every bit as much as a sub needs a Dom. Won't say too much about this, but the conversation this came up in really helped me fall for Mr. Andrew Templeton...I don't know, maybe it's just me, but I really liked seeing the equal need and connection between the characters.
Definitely recommended for Kim Dare fans and anyone who's ever wondered what that drunken twinky brat dancing on top of the tables might really have going on in his life, or why the boss is suddenly giving out long lunch breaks! :)
November 12, 2012
This is a wonderful exploration of a D/s relationship with great insights into the sub's perspective, while giving a tantalizing view of the Dom's point of view as well.
From the first book of Kim Dare I read to this one, I loved them all. I always read them non-stop, even though sometimes I begin to read them late at night. And the next day, I keep imagining the boy standing, hands in his back, waiting to fulfill any of my desires. Delicious!
From the first book of Kim Dare I read to this one, I loved them all. I always read them non-stop, even though sometimes I begin to read them late at night. And the next day, I keep imagining the boy standing, hands in his back, waiting to fulfill any of my desires. Delicious!
October 29, 2013
I love this book....Devon was just so great...Templeton was a dream Dom showing him slowly the way into submission...His care for him after his night out drinking was sweet and the way he slowly lengthened their time together was great x
August 14, 2019
A sweet BDSM offering
Warning: This review might contain what some people consider SPOILERS.
Rating: 7/10
PROS:
- This author does a great job of getting into her submissive characters’ heads and showing how desirable they find their doms’ actions, even when the subs don’t consciously know they’re submissive.
- The structure of the story is clever. We see the men’s interactions in one-hour increments, and I was very curious at first to know more about what happens outside of those one-hour time slots. But the story opens up slowly, as the amount of time the men spend together increases.
CONS:
- Stern doms are all well and good, but I feel like they need to show some approval now and then, especially with brand new, untested subs. I didn’t see much of that in Mr. Templeton, even after weeks had gone by in the story. I found it a little difficult to believe that Devon would stick around with so little encouragement from his dominant partner.
- Dare overuses descriptors in place of proper names to describe which character is doing what. Example: “swallowing it down, the younger man savoured the salt as it slid over his tongue and relished the success of knowing he’d given the dominant satisfaction.” I don’t understand why she couldn’t just use the characters’ names here.
Overall comments: I struggle with shorter stories sometimes, thinking that they need more development. But Dare does as good a job as anyone establishing background and character growth when there’s not much space in which to do so. Mr. Templeton gradually makes Devon into a better man--someone more at ease with himself and less self-destructive.
Warning: This review might contain what some people consider SPOILERS.
Rating: 7/10
PROS:
- This author does a great job of getting into her submissive characters’ heads and showing how desirable they find their doms’ actions, even when the subs don’t consciously know they’re submissive.
- The structure of the story is clever. We see the men’s interactions in one-hour increments, and I was very curious at first to know more about what happens outside of those one-hour time slots. But the story opens up slowly, as the amount of time the men spend together increases.
CONS:
- Stern doms are all well and good, but I feel like they need to show some approval now and then, especially with brand new, untested subs. I didn’t see much of that in Mr. Templeton, even after weeks had gone by in the story. I found it a little difficult to believe that Devon would stick around with so little encouragement from his dominant partner.
- Dare overuses descriptors in place of proper names to describe which character is doing what. Example: “swallowing it down, the younger man savoured the salt as it slid over his tongue and relished the success of knowing he’d given the dominant satisfaction.” I don’t understand why she couldn’t just use the characters’ names here.
Overall comments: I struggle with shorter stories sometimes, thinking that they need more development. But Dare does as good a job as anyone establishing background and character growth when there’s not much space in which to do so. Mr. Templeton gradually makes Devon into a better man--someone more at ease with himself and less self-destructive.
June 6, 2011
Sometimes a submissive only need a good dominant to bring the best out of him. That is something Mr. Templeton seems to bring out of Devon.
The author of this story uses a unique writing style that really demonstrates her talent. It took me a minute to really get comfortable with it but once I was, I realized how it actually enhanced the story. It allowed me to feel as if I was part of the story instead of just reading it. I learned about the characters as they learned about one another and incidentally themselves. Another thing that stood out to me was having the date and time placed at the beginning of each chapter. It was really a nice touch, which allowed me to follow the story well. In the end I really valued the style and was astonished that an author was able to surprise me since it sometimes feels as if everything has already been done before.
This is a true BDSM relationship which I appreciated. Yes, sex and sexuality is at the basis of the relationship, but it is so much more than that. The emotional level that is reached within this story is one that I am sure most submissives and dominants seek. Devon really learned to anticipate his master’s needs and did what was necessary to get praise from his master, even if the praise was something small that only they could appreciate. I found it quite endearing and I cherished those moments as much as the characters.
With a unique writing style and a captivating story that displayed the characters perfectly, this story is one of the BDSM stories I have read that sets the bar for other authors.
originally posted at http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/201...
The author of this story uses a unique writing style that really demonstrates her talent. It took me a minute to really get comfortable with it but once I was, I realized how it actually enhanced the story. It allowed me to feel as if I was part of the story instead of just reading it. I learned about the characters as they learned about one another and incidentally themselves. Another thing that stood out to me was having the date and time placed at the beginning of each chapter. It was really a nice touch, which allowed me to follow the story well. In the end I really valued the style and was astonished that an author was able to surprise me since it sometimes feels as if everything has already been done before.
This is a true BDSM relationship which I appreciated. Yes, sex and sexuality is at the basis of the relationship, but it is so much more than that. The emotional level that is reached within this story is one that I am sure most submissives and dominants seek. Devon really learned to anticipate his master’s needs and did what was necessary to get praise from his master, even if the praise was something small that only they could appreciate. I found it quite endearing and I cherished those moments as much as the characters.
With a unique writing style and a captivating story that displayed the characters perfectly, this story is one of the BDSM stories I have read that sets the bar for other authors.
originally posted at http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/201...
March 30, 2012
This was an interesting take on a BDSM relationship. Devon Ashford is slipped a note in a club that directs him with only two things: a location and a time. As Devon shows up at a posh office at noon, he is informed by the attractive older businessman seated behind the desk that "At the stroke of twelve on this day, and on every Wednesday from now on, you will belong to me for one hour."
Andrew Templeton sees a lot of promise in Devon as a submissive, but can he teach the young man to perform to Andrew's standards?
I like the way this story was set up although I still have difficulty relating to the D/s hard core relationship. All of the "Sirs" and "Masters" make it hard for me to connect with the MCs. I think it's because they never really get romantic or sweet with each other - they show their love with protection and domination and possession. I usually can't get into those types of relationships where it's a big deal if you get a kiss from your master.
But I still could appreciate the book for what it was, even if it was outside my comfort zone.
Andrew Templeton sees a lot of promise in Devon as a submissive, but can he teach the young man to perform to Andrew's standards?
I like the way this story was set up although I still have difficulty relating to the D/s hard core relationship. All of the "Sirs" and "Masters" make it hard for me to connect with the MCs. I think it's because they never really get romantic or sweet with each other - they show their love with protection and domination and possession. I usually can't get into those types of relationships where it's a big deal if you get a kiss from your master.
But I still could appreciate the book for what it was, even if it was outside my comfort zone.
January 5, 2011
I like Kim's books, but always wish they were longer. Happily, my wish was granted with this book. We get to see the characters grow in self-knowledge and love for each other. Devon is a natural sub who has never experienced submission. Templeton is a dom who realizes he needs someone to take care of. At the start, they meet for one hour a week, and Templeton introduces Devon to the D/s dynamic. Then they move to one hour a day, and so on. It's beautiful to witness their self-discoveries. Also enjoyable was the variety of D/s action explored as the story went on. Yay!
January 4, 2011
Very good kinky m/m romance about an aimless young man who wakes up after a night at the bar to find he has a piece of paper with an address and a time written on it and only the vague memory of a handsome older man handing it to him. Curious, he turns up at the address on time... and his life is changed in a way he never expected.
February 17, 2011
Kim Dare does it again...a beautifully written tale of two men falling in love despite the risks. Oh, and getting their kink on at the same time!!
February 26, 2018
Not bad, but not my favorite couple by Kim Dare.
Maybe if there was a little bit more from the Dom's POV...
Maybe if there was a little bit more from the Dom's POV...
July 4, 2011
It's a 3.5 stars for me.
I find Sir creepy in the first chapter. And what was he doing at the bar that night? It seems inconsistent with his personality. My perception of him change rapidly, I saw him as a good person and a good Master after this first chapter.
Devon progression was the most interesting point to read about in this book. He start low but make some impressive progress all along the story.
Their relation was beautiful. I don't make this book on my romance-mm shelve, it's not really that, even if they love each other, it's more a mentor/boy relation.
I find Sir creepy in the first chapter. And what was he doing at the bar that night? It seems inconsistent with his personality. My perception of him change rapidly, I saw him as a good person and a good Master after this first chapter.
Devon progression was the most interesting point to read about in this book. He start low but make some impressive progress all along the story.
Their relation was beautiful. I don't make this book on my romance-mm shelve, it's not really that, even if they love each other, it's more a mentor/boy relation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2011
I'm being good this year and trying to say something about every book I read but must admit I'm bad at it. So for this book: It's a wonderful story set in the world of BDSM. A submissive that really needs a dominate to look after him. The build up in the story was gradual and made sense. Since it is a short story there is a lack of depth in the characters and to some degree the plot. It's uncomplicated and a lite read for those days when that is what is needed:)
May 4, 2011
I really enjoy Kim Dare's books especially when I'm in the mood for something a bit spicy but this one is my out and out favourite. I love the slow build up between Devon and Mr Templeton from a once a week thing to 24/7. I really wanted to give this book 4.5 but alas goodreads doesn't have a .5 button.
January 5, 2011
a very sweet bdsm story as always with Kim Dare. the sub was cute and the feeling was that they really were meant for each other
it's not heavy bdsm so even if you don't like it you can read it cause it's more about discipline and bondage than about sexual dominance.
it's not heavy bdsm so even if you don't like it you can read it cause it's more about discipline and bondage than about sexual dominance.
June 28, 2011
This was beautiful.
It's a little hard to wrap my head around the fact that Devon would show up at a complete stranger's office and do what he's told to do...but once i got past this "hurdle" it was beautiful.
I enjoyed every nuance of it. This was certainly something new and refreshing.
It's a little hard to wrap my head around the fact that Devon would show up at a complete stranger's office and do what he's told to do...but once i got past this "hurdle" it was beautiful.
I enjoyed every nuance of it. This was certainly something new and refreshing.
February 15, 2014
Very nice slow build relationship between the characters. I like how it started off with just an hour a week without Devon even knowing what is going on. Then slowly their time increases and so does the level of play. Very hot sex scene and great build up of the relationship.
September 28, 2011
Another whose stars I upped because it is one of my favourite Kim Dare re-reads. I like the build up and the changes in each man.
April 9, 2019
A really enjoyable story
Some stories about new relationships take place over a few hours, or a few days. This story takes place over a year. A year in which these two men get to know one another, and to fall in love.
I really enjoyed the growing interaction between Devon and his Master, and how with gentle nurturing and care Devon becomes much more the man he could be - rather than who he was when they met.
Some stories about new relationships take place over a few hours, or a few days. This story takes place over a year. A year in which these two men get to know one another, and to fall in love.
I really enjoyed the growing interaction between Devon and his Master, and how with gentle nurturing and care Devon becomes much more the man he could be - rather than who he was when they met.
February 19, 2018
I swear I’ve read this story before, but couldn’t find any record of it in my notes. Irregardless, this is a gem of a story. A painfully insecure submissive and a Dom who needs a boy. Their relationship evolves over a year plus, and it is very satisfying to watch them both grow into it.
Bought from kobo
Bought from kobo
March 10, 2018
3.5
Hot, and sweet. Loved how Devon embraced his submission.
Hot, and sweet. Loved how Devon embraced his submission.
September 10, 2022
I don't even know how many times I've read this book, I've lost count a long time ago. One of my favorite books, so so good.
February 6, 2017
I love the slow gentle leading with both kink and the relationship. I love how Devon soaks up each bit of attention.
February 5, 2012
Devon is introduced to the BDSM world and discovers he really, really likes it. I liked the little glimpes into Templeton's mindset, but they were so few and far between I question the need for them at all. His feelings on everything were so clearly communicated through his actions and commands to Devon.
December 28, 2013
Simplistic and unrealistic, but good. Although I would have preferred less internal dialogues that might suggest a total dependence created on purpose by the Dom in Devon ... and more references, however, to a conscious and reasoned choice of Devon about a 24/7 relationship.
But I understand that this was not the aim of the book.
But I understand that this was not the aim of the book.
October 27, 2015
Not sure why this book just didn't hit it for me. It has a lot of good reviews but it just didn't make me feel connected to them. I felt like a casual observer only seeing a little of their relationship.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews