A little more hard core than many of Sean Michael's BDSM stories, this one contains (as expected) almost cover-to-cover sex, an interesting and less usual budding relationship, and a few forays into pain play, which is a little less usual still. However, it is more than clear that the sub, Jerod, is the one initiating it, so there is no feeling of coercion. It made the whole setup a lot "softer" than it otherwise could have been. The Dom, Drake, is growly and strong, but he comes across as a man trying to do the right thing for Jerod. There are a few experiments with other kinks as well, and lots of talk about piercings. While this will not be for everyone, if you are interested to venture a little beyond the softer side of BDSM, this might be a good novella to experiment with. ( )

A little more hard-core than many of Sean Michael's BDSM stories, this one contains almost cover-to-cover sex, an interesting budding relationship, and a few forays into pain play. However, it is more than clear that the sub, Jeren, is the one initiating it, so there is no feeling of coercion. It made the whole setup a lot "softer" than it otherwise could have been. The Dom, Drake, is growly and strong, but he comes across as a man trying to do the right thing for Jeren. There are a few experiments with other kinks as well, and lots of talk about piercings.

Jeren is an artist, not always with both feet on the ground, and badly needs a keeper. He has very specific needs, but he won’t trust just anyone to fulfill them. Seeing how dangerous that could be with the wrong man, I applaud him being cautious. But once he gets going with Drake? There seems to be no stopping him.

Drake is pushing for some sort of a relationship from the moment he meets Jeren, set-up or not. He has no idea what he is in for, but his careful, responsible nature allows both men to find their way forward in steps right for them.

While this sort of a relationship (and this story) will not be for everyone, if you are interested in venturing a little beyond the softer side of BDSM, this might be a good novella to experiment with.
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